2014-01-21 CC Agenda Packet
City of Albertville Council Agenda
TUESDAY, January 21, 2014
City Council Chambers
7:00 PM
PUBLIC COMMENTS -The City of Albertville welcomes and encourages public input on issues listed on the agenda or of general community
interest. Citizens wishing to address the Council regarding specific agenda items, other than public hearings are invited to do so under Public
Forum and are asked to fill out a “Request to Speak Card”. Presentations are limited to five (5) minutes.
M:\Public Data\City Council\Council Agendas\2014 Agendas\2014-01-21 CC Agenda.doc
Meeting Date: January 21, 2014
1. Call to Order
2. Pledge of Allegiance – Roll Call
3. Recognitions – Presentations – Introductions
A. Eagle Scout Recognition – Nolan Anderson and Zack Peterson
4. Public Forum – (time reserved 5 minutes)
5. Amendments to the Agenda
6. Consent Agenda
All items under the Consent Agenda are considered to be routine by the City staff and will
be enacted by one motion. In the event an item is pulled it will be discussed in the order it
is listed on the Consent agenda following the approval of the remaining Consent items.
These items will be approved by a separate motion.
A. Approve the January 6, 2014 regular City Council meeting minutes as presented (pgs
3-9)
B. Authorize the Tuesday, January 21, 2014 payment of claims as presented, except bills
specifically pulled which are passed by separate motion. The claims listing has been
provided to City Council as a separate document and is available for public view at
City Hall upon request (pg 10)
7. Public Hearings - None
8. Department Business
A. City Council
1). Committee Updates (STMA Arena, Planning, JPWB, Parks, Fire Board, etc.)
B. Building
1). Building Report (pgs 11-12)
C. Planning/Zoning
1). Planning Summary (pgs 13-14)
Agenda Page 1
City of Albertville Council Agenda
TUESDAY, January 21, 2014 Page 2 of 2
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Meeting Date: January 21, 2014
D. City Clerk
1). Voting Precincts Discussion (pgs 15-16)
E. Legal
1). Sewer and Water Trunk Charges Ordinance (pgs 17-19)
(Motion to Approve Ordinance No. 2014-01 entitled An Ordinance Modifying
Sanitary Sewer and Municipal Water Trunk District Charges.)
F. Public Works / Engineering – None
G. Finance – None
H. Administration
1). School Funding Letter (pgs 20-22)
2). City Administrator’s Update (pgs 23-24)
3). Informational Brochures – Verbal
9. Announcements and/or Upcoming Meetings
January 20 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, City Offices Closed
January 27 Joint Powers Water Board, 6:30 p.m.
Parks Committee, 8:00 p.m.
February 3 City Council, 7:00 p.m.
February 10 STMA Ice Arena Board, 6:00 p.m.
February 11 Planning Commission, 7:00 p.m.
February 17 Presidents’ Day, City Offices Closed
February 18 City Council, 7:00 p.m.
February 24 Joint Powers Water Board, 6:30 p.m.
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
Su M Tu W Th F Sa
Su M Tu W Th F Sa
H
1 2 3 4
1
5 CC 6 7 8 9 10 11
2 CC 3 4 5 6 7 8
12 Ice 13
PC
14 15 16 17 18
9 Ice 10 PC 11 12 13 14 15
19 H 20
CC
21 22 23 24 25
16 H 17 CC 18 19 20 21 22
26 JP27PK 28 29 30 31
23
JP24 25 26 27 28
10. Adjournment
Agenda Page 2
Page 1
ALBERTVILLE CITY COUNCIL
Monday, January 6, 2014
DRAFT MINUTES
ALBERTVILLE CITY HALL 7:00 PM
1. CALL TO ORDER – PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Hendrickson called the meeting to order at 7:02 p.m.
2. ROLL CALL
Present: Mayor Hendrickson and Council members Olson, Sorensen, Vetsch, and Wagner
Absent: None
Others Present: City Administrator-PWD Adam Nafstad, Finance Director Tina Lannes, City
Planner Alan Brixius, Public Works Supervisor Tim Guimont, Streets/Parks Maintenance Worker I
Mike Jenkins, Wastewater/Water Supervisor John Middendorf, Wastewater/Water Maintenance
Worker I Jacob Kreutner, Brent Guimont, and Darla Guimont
3. RECOGNITIONS, PRESENTATIONS, INTRODUCTIONS
A. Recognition of Tim Guimont’s Years of Service
Nafstad outlined Mr. Guimont’s hard work and contributions to the City. He congratulated Guimont
on his years of service and Hendrickson presented a Certificate of Recognition to him.
Guimont thanked the City Council. He credited the other members of the department and stated he
enjoyed his work in the City.
4. PUBLIC FORUM
There was no one present to speak.
5. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
Motioned by Vetsch, seconded by Wagner, to approve the agenda. Ayes: Hendrickson, Olson,
Sorensen, Vetsch, and Wagner. Nays: None. Absent: None. MOTION DECLARED CARRIED.
6. CONSENT AGENDA
All items under the Consent Agenda are considered to be routine by City Staff and will be enacted
by one motion. In the event an item is pulled, it will be discussed in the order it is listed on the
Agenda Page 3
City Council Meeting Minutes Page 2
Regular Meeting of January 6, 2014
Consent Agenda following the approval of the remaining Consent items. These items will be
approved by a separate motion.
A. Approve the December 16, 2013 regular City Council meeting minutes as presented
B. Authorize the Monday, January 6, 2014 payment of claims as presented, except bills
specifically pulled which are passed by separate motion. The claims listing has been
provided to City Council as a separate document and is available for public view at City
Hall upon request
C. Approve Resolution 2014-001 designating officials and consulting firms and approve
Resolution 2014-002 appointing City Council members to various boards and committees
for 2014
Sorensen pulled Consent Item A, the December 16, 2013 City Council meeting minutes. He
removed his name from STMA Ice Arena update and corrected it to read Council member Wagner.
He also requested a separate motion on the item, since he was absent from the meeting and would
like to abstain from approving the minutes.
Motioned by Wagner, seconded by Olson, to approve the December 16, 2013 Council meeting
minutes. Ayes: Hendrickson, Olson, Vetsch, and Wagner. Nays: None. Abstain: Sorensen.
Absent: None. MOTION DECLARED CARRIED.
Motioned by Wagner, seconded by Sorensen, to approve the Consent Agenda as amended. Ayes:
Hendrickson, Olson, Sorensen, Vetsch, and Wagner. Nays: None. Absent: None. MOTION
DECLARED CARRIED.
7. PUBLIC HEARING – None
8. DEPARTMENT BUSINESS
A. City Council
1). Committee Updates (STMA Arena, Planning, Parks, Fire Board, JPWB, etc.)
There were no updates.
B. Public Works and Engineering
1). Snow Removal and Outdoor Ice Rink Update
Guimont reported there was a decent snow pack on the roads. He stated that in the
month of December they have already used approximately 70% of all salt that they
would have used in recent years. They have kept overtime to a minimum. The
equipment has been running well with only a few minor repairs needed.
Guimont reported it has been difficult to clear the outdoor ice rink this year and it
has required some overtime to keep it open.
Hendrickson stated that she has heard nothing except positive comments. Wagner
agreed. Wagner would like to see the rink in a bit better condition, but he
Agenda Page 4
City Council Meeting Minutes Page 3
Regular Meeting of January 6, 2014
understands that the recent snow events have prevented the regular maintenance of
the rink.
Council advised Guimont to keep working as is and feels staff has continued to
make good judgments.
2). Resolution of Support for 70th Street NE Improvements
Nafstad reported that this is a follow up to the agreement with Wright County and
surrounding cities to apply for federal dollars for Region 7W transportation needs.
Otsego has packaged a grant application for Otsego, Albertville and Wright County
and it has been designed to score well. It includes improvements to the 70th Street
NE/CSAH 19 intersection and reconstruction of 70th Street NE from CSAH 19 to
MacIver Avenue NE. If funds are received, they are to split the difference between
the three agencies. He stated they did not want to miss a grant deadline.
Motioned by Vetsch, seconded by Hendrickson, to adopt Resolution 2014-003
Supporting the Construction of and Participation in a portion of the funding for
improvements to 70th Street NE from LaBeaux Avenue NE (CSAH 19) to MacIver
Avenue NE. Ayes: Hendrickson, Olson, Sorensen, Vetsch, and Wagner. Nays:
None. Absent: None. MOTION DECLARED CARRIED.
3). Joint 57th Street NE Church Improvements Update and Concept Map
Nafstad reported the Church of St. Albert project will be an expansion of their
existing parking lot, improvements to the existing pavement, and relocation of
driveway access points to Lander Avenue NE from 57th Street NE. The City’s
portion of the project will be a complete reconstruction and widening of 57th Street
NE and addition of sidewalks. He stated the right-of-way impacts do not allow for a
green space boulevard.
Nafstad reviewed the project costs. He stated he looked at land valuation from
Wright County’s website to calculate right-of-way cost and he will continue
discussions with the Church on compensation for the right-of-way and loss of
parking stalls.
Hendrickson asked how much extra it would be to have a green space boulevard and
Nafstad estimated costs would be about double. Hendrickson asked if a sidewalk is
needed on both sides of 57th Street NE and Nafstad stated there are currently
sidewalks on both sides and this would complete those sidewalks. Vetsch asked if
the Lambert Avenue NE and 57th Street NE intersection and drainage would be
included and Nafstad replied he would include it in his notes to address.
Sorensen clarified this sidewalk will tie into the existing sidewalk west of the Fire
Hall by the new boardwalk. Nafstad stated no action was needed at this time.
C. City Clerk – None
Agenda Page 5
City Council Meeting Minutes Page 4
Regular Meeting of January 6, 2014
D. Finance – None
E. Planning/Zoning – None
F. Building – None
G. Legal – None
H. Administration
1). STMA Ice Arena Improvements Cost Share Agreement
Nafstad reported School District ISD #885 and City of St. Michael have agreed to the
estimated costs of the improvement project for insulation and dehumidification at the
Arena. $110,000 will be used from the Arena reserves and the three entities will split
the cost thereafter.
Motioned by Sorensen, seconded by Hendrickson, to approve the agreement for
insulation and dehumidification improvements to the STMA Ice Arena, between
School District #885 and the Cities of St. Michael and Albertville, and titled,
“Agreement Governing Repairs to the Joint Powers Ice Arena”. Ayes:
Hendrickson, Olson, Sorensen, Vetsch, and Wagner. Nays: None. Absent: None.
MOTION DECLARED CARRIED.
2). Personnel Committee Recommendations
Nafstad reported the Personnel Committee met several times and formulated several
recommendations. He stated the Personnel Policy updates were:
• Minor grammatical and routine corrections
• Clarification of pay for City Employees while working as Firefighters
• Inclusion of weapons at the workplace language
• Updates to FMLA to match Federal and State law
• Update to the amount of sick leave to be accrued and a tiered scale for payout
at termination or retirement
• Increase the employer contribution to the Health Care Savings Plan
Vetsch was concerned about the increase to the Health Care Savings Plan and felt that
all increases eventually add up. Nafstad stated the increase to this benefit will help to
prepare employees for retirement when the time comes, rather than employees
working longer just for insurance purposes. He also stated that the employees must
also agree unanimously as a whole on the amount of the employee contribution to the
Plan.
Sorensen asked if there was a liability to the City for the increase of sick time that can
be banked. Nafstad stated that currently employees can be paid out a quarter of their
sick leave if they reach the cap of sick days. Under the proposed update, it will also
take several years for employees to reach the new max. The liability will instead
Agenda Page 6
City Council Meeting Minutes Page 5
Regular Meeting of January 6, 2014
transfer to when an employee terminates their employment. He clarified the liability
is not 100% and is capped.
Hendrickson stated the Personnel Committee moved forward with the
recommendations to keep with the benefit averages of surrounding cities and the
Committee had asked Nafstad to provide city-by-city comparisons for the changes that
are recommended. She added they want to make sure they are competitive with other
cities to retain employees.
Sorensen wanted clarification on the weapons at the workplace. Hendrickson stated
that it is comparable to other cities. Hendrickson felt that it would not benefit the City
if an incident was to occur and the City did not have the language in the policy.
Motioned by Sorensen, seconded by Hendrickson, to approve the updates and
recommendations to the Personnel Policy as presented. Ayes: Hendrickson, Olson,
Sorensen, and Wagner. Nays: Vetsch. Absent: None. MOTION DECLARED
CARRIED.
Vetsch wanted it on the record that he voted nay because he did not support the Health
Care Savings Plan increase. Hendrickson asked Nafstad to inform the Council when
staff agreed on their employee contribution percentage.
Nafstad stated that annually a salary survey is conducted to make sure wages are
competitive. The City looked at the average high and average low pay ranges of
surrounding cities and compared it to Albertville’s high and low pay ranges. He
indicated that there are several new hires that were hired at Council directed pay
ranges, so they focused on two positions that were at the Albertville high pay range,
but were below the average high of surrounding cities. The two positions are the
Finance Director and the Wastewater/Water Supervisor. The proposed increase are
$3,305.49 and $9,430.92 respectively. Sorensen inquired if this is just adjusting the
upper limits of the pay ranges or if increases would be given this year. Hendrickson
stated that it is proposed to increase the salaries to those limits for the two positions
for 2014. Nafstad clarified both positions are at their top step of their pay range and
they would then remain at that new upper limit. Hendrickson stated that they had
considered pay steps over time to implement the increase to the Wastewater/Water
Supervisor position, but she felt that was unfair for a position that has been underpaid
for years according to the salary survey. Olson stated the City’s current high for the
position is lower than the average low and this is an employee that is very
experienced.
Sorensen inquired how they arrived at this situation; Lannes replied that generally
every year or two the salary survey is done and normally only a couple of positions are
done each time, so it is not such a big impact on the budget. The last positions
reviewed were for a public works position and an utility position two years ago.
Vetsch inquired if both the Public Works Supervisor and the Wastewater/Water
Supervisor should be at the same pay scale. Nafstad stated that is what is proposed.
Agenda Page 7
City Council Meeting Minutes Page 6
Regular Meeting of January 6, 2014
Hendrickson stated they also reviewed the City Administrator’s pay scale at the same
time. The Committee did not recommend a change for this year, but felt if the
Administrator’s review goes well next year, they should consider some type of
percentage change.
Motioned by Olson, seconded by Hendrickson, to approve the adjusted pay scales for
the Director of Finance and Wastewater/Water Supervisor positions as presented.
Ayes: Hendrickson, Olson, Sorensen, Vetsch, and Wagner. Nays: None. Absent:
None. MOTION DECLARED CARRIED.
3). City Administrator’s Update
Nafstad reported the STMA Ice Arena communications have been down over the
weekend. Staff continues to work on the communications upgrades and is waiting on
switches to arrive before they can go live.
Nafstad stated they have not heard anything further from the League regarding the
June 23, 2013 flood claims other than the League’s offer for a compromise settlement.
Nafstad stated that as part of the Guardian Angels development, Guardian Angels is
required to clean the ditch. He anticipates some residents that depend on that buffer
may be upset when the activity begins. He stated he has sent letters and made phone
calls to those that will be impacted.
10. ANNOUNCEMENTS and/or UPCOMING MEETINGS
Hendrickson thanked the Council for the time they have spent serving on committees this last
year and thanks them for the same this coming year.
January 13 STMA Ice Arena Board, 6:00 p.m.
January 14 Planning Commission, 7:00 p.m.
January 20 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, City Offices Closed
January 21 City Council, 7:00 p.m.
January 27 Joint Powers Water Board, 6:30 p.m.
Parks Committee, 8:00 p.m.
January 28 I-94 Coalition State of the Cities, Rogers, 11:30 a.m.
February 3 City Council, 7:00 p.m.
February 11 STMA Ice Arena Board, 6:00 p.m.
February 12 Planning Commission, 7:00 p.m.
February 17 Presidents’ Day, City Offices Closed
February 18 City Council, 7:00 p.m.
February 24 Joint Powers Water Board, 6:30 p.m.
Agenda Page 8
City Council Meeting Minutes Page 7
Regular Meeting of January 6, 2014
11. ADJOURN MEETING
Motioned by Wagner, seconded by Sorensen, to adjourn the meeting at 8:21 p.m. Ayes:
Hendrickson, Olson, Sorensen, Vetsch and Wagner. Nays: None. Absent: None. MOTION
DECLARED CARRIED.
Respectfully submitted,
___________________________________
Kimberly A. Olson, City Clerk
Agenda Page 9
Mayor and Council Request for Action
M:\Public Data\City Council\Council Packet information\2014\012114\012114 Finance Bills Report.doc
Meeting Date: January 21, 2014
January 16, 2014
SUBJECT: CONSENT - FINANCE- PAYMENT OF BILLS
RECOMMENDATION: It is respectfully requested that the Mayor and Council consider the
following:
MOTION TO: Authorize the Tuesday, January 21, 2014 payment of the claims that includes as
presented except the bills specifically pulled, which are passed by separate motion.
MOTION TO: Authorize the payment of all just claims received by December 31, 2013, which
would be the year-end closeout of payments of claims.
BACKGROUND: The City processes claims on a semi-monthly basis. The bills are approved
through their respective departments and administration and passed onto the City Council for
approval. The claims listing has been provided to Council as a separate document. The claims
listing is available for public viewing at City Hall upon request.
KEY ISSUES:
• Account codes starting with 810 are STMA Arena Expenses/Vendors (highlighted)
and key issues will be presented in the claims listing document.
POLICY/PRACTICES CONSIDERATIONS: It is the City’s policy to review and approve
payables on a semi-monthly basis.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS: City staff has reviewed and recommends approval of
payments presented.
LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS: The Mayor and Council have the authority to approve all bills
pursuant to Minnesota State Law, which requires all bills to be paid in a timely manner,
generally within 30 days unless one party determines to dispute the billing.
Responsible Person/Department: Tina Lannes, Finance Director
Reviewed by: Adam Nafstad, City Administrator-PWD
Attachment: List of Claims (under separate cover)
Agenda Page 10
Mayor and Council Communication
M:\Public Data\City Council\Council Packet information\2014\012114\011614 - 2013 Year End Building Report.doc
Meeting Date: January 21, 2014
January 16, 2014
SUBJECT: BUILDING DEPARTMENT – 2013 YEAR-END REPORT
Permit Activity: Attached is the 2013 Permit Activity Summary, which tabulates the total
permit activity for 2013 and 2012. A total of 412 permits were issued in 2013. The total
valuation of this work is approximately $16,616,287 and associated permit fees paid is
approximately $651,000 (includes utility access fees). In 2013, there were 22 new single family
permits, one (1) new commercial permit, and 64 commercial addition/remodel permits. The
2013 Permit Log is on file and available at City Hall.
2012/2013 Permit Summary Comparison 2012 2013
Total Permits 391 412
New Homes (single family) 12 22
New Commercial 1 1
Commercial Addition/Remodel 42 64
Total Valuation $4.67M $16.62M
Rental Inspections: Rental licensing and inspections are ongoing. To date, the City has 200
licensed rental properties. In 2013, approximately 93 rental inspections were completed. Rental
properties are inspected biennially.
2012/2013 Rental Summary Comparison 2012 2013
Licensed Rental Properties (Res.) 160 200
Rental Inspections 300 93
Ongoing Department Objectives:
• Website updates for permit forms, fees, and various building information and links
• Update handouts to reflect 2013 code revisions
• Review open and ongoing permits for further action
• Review current American Disabilities Act (ADA) transition plan for municipal properties
• Continued coordination of fire related inspections and code enforcement between AFD
and the building department
Department/Responsible Person: Building Department/Paul Heins, Sue Schwalbe
Submitted Through: Adam Nafstad, City Administrator-PWD
Attachments: 2013 Permit Activity Summary
Agenda Page 11
2013 PERMIT ACTIVITY SUMMARY2013Single FamilyMultiFamilyAdditions/RemodelsDeck/PorchFireplaceFinish BasementNEW Commercial/InstitutionalCommercial Addition/RemodelCommercial SignSign, TemporarySiding/ReroofMechanical/Plumbing/GasGarage/ShedPoolRight of WayOtherTotal Value of Single/Multi Family Value Commercial/Institutional Value Comm. Heating/Plumbing Total Valuation (all permits)January10303303220 80000 25170,000.00$ 5,000.00$ 1,030.00$ 260,394.00$ February00202004140 80000 21‐$ 223,000.00$ ‐$ 280,302.00$ March20301203132 40000 21517,586.00$ 13,450.00$ 12,800.00$ 614,256.00$ April20110108532 40000 27350,528.00$ 141,000.00$ 24,400.00$ 583,159.00$ May40932305652121207 61811,562.00$ 1,662,000.00$ ‐$ 2,670,876.94$ June30462004022 30031 30587,850.00$ 360,000.00$ 5,500.00$ 1,024,446.00$ July30162107122100142 42717,610.00$ 37,450.00$ 95,925.00$ 978,180.00$ August40144007030220000 45784,212.00$ 87,200.00$ 9,500.00$ 1,112,962.00$ September102122011363 90010 41219,254.00$ 138,786.64$ 204,940.00$ 591,766.64$ October20902209234121022 50420,520.00$ 38,028.00$ 55,342.00$ 733,818.22$ November00221113142 70000 24‐$ 7,215,800.00$ 350,000.00$ 7,618,664.00$ December00411300221 90020 25‐$ 13,000.00$ ‐$ 147,462.50$ TOTAL 22 0 41 24 22 18 1 64 24 39 20 108 2 3 12 12 4124,579,122.00$ 9,934,714.64$ 759,437.00$ 16,616,287.30$ 2012January00300202351 40020 22‐$ 11,543.00$ 71,443.00$ February10100104161 60000 21220,000.00$ 8,600.00$ 400.00$ 241,041.00$ March10510303245 60000 30130,000.00$ 402,280.00$ 5,600.00$ 650,390.58$ April10370303246 50000 34199,740.00$ 4,900.00$ 1,750.00$ 332,584.00$ May20870104152 60320 41480,000.00$ 27,800.00$ ‐$ 651,772.00$ June00690505026 20211 39‐$ 17,000.00$ 6,750.00$ 181,156.00$ July20460302233 60100 32366,820.00$ 136,200.00$ ‐$ 599,115.00$ August209611011676 50020 56450,000.00$ 222,925.00$ 38,440.00$ 851,038.70$ September106300011858000033202,296.00$ 7,500.00$ ‐$ 280,006.00$ October10521004128130000 37380,000.00$ 3,600.00$ 4,390.00$ 440,152.87$ November10410103254 90012 33177,420.00$ 30,500.00$ 1,000.00$ 310,008.67$ December00101200411 30000 1320,200.00$ 60,314.00$ TOTAL 12 0 55 42 3 22 0 42 25 52 48 7306833912,606,276.00$ 893,048.00$ 58,330.00$ 4,669,021.82$ 1/16/2014Agenda Page 12
MEMORANDUM
TO: Albertville Mayor and City Council
FROM: Alan Brixius
DATE: January 15, 2014
RE: Albertville – Planning Summary – January 21, 2014 City Council Meeting
FILE: 163.05 - General
The following is a description of current planning projects. Planning staff will bring these items
before the City Council for consideration at the February 3, 2014 meeting.
1) Hunters Pass Estates 2nd Addition Plat. Preliminary and Final Plat approval of
Hunters Pass Estates 2nd Addition, Phase II of the Hunters Pass Estates PUD originally
approved in 2005. Approval of the original plat has expired and Tollberg Homes is
proposing updates to the original plat, so that additional review and approval is required.
The entire Hunters Pass Estates development consists of 95 single family lots on 76.6
acres of land in the northeast corner of Albertville. Sixty-three single family lots were
developed in Phase I of the development, and Tollberg Homes is proposing to develop
an additional 12 lots. Plat and PUD approval of the Hunters Pass Estates subdivision in
2005 allowed for reduced lot areas and setbacks to allow for implementation of a coved
subdivision design and increased protection of wetland areas. Phase II generally
adheres to standards approved with the original plat, but requests reduced rear yard
setbacks in order to implement a wetland buffer zone exterior to plat parcels, as
recommended by the City Engineer.
2) Food Truck Ordinance Amendment and Permit. The City of Albertville has recently
experienced requests from food truck vendors to be able to operate in the community.
City Ordinance does not currently provide standards specific to the regulation of food
trucks, which have thus far been allowed to operate under a transient merchant license
and a temporary outdoor seasonal sales permit. In the past, the City has recommended
pursuing opportunities for more restaurants however the transient nature of food trucks
poses concerns regarding competition with established food related businesses.
Should the City deem this kind of competition appropriate, they will need to establish
regulations for the unique style of operation associated with mobile food vendors.
Agenda Page 13
2
3) Home Occupation Ordinance. The City has received complaints regarding home
occupation uses, and home daycares in particular. The Zoning Ordinance contains
conflicting language in this regard, so the City engaged planning staff in investigating
how the home occupation ordinance can be clarified and improved to better address
existing and future home occupation uses. It is anticipated that the revised home
occupation ordinance will also reduce the cost associated with permitting such uses.
4) Albertville 2014 Goals and Priorities. The City Council requested that the Planning
Commission discuss City goals and project priorities, and provide recommendations for
what the City should achieve in 2014. To assist in this discussion, planning staff
provided the Planning Commission a summary of City goals and priorities through 2013.
The list of goals and priorities was drawn from the 2012 Visioning Study and vision
study workshops. A list of administrative, planning/engineering, and code enforcement
items completed in 2013 was also shared with the Planning Commission, to provide
insight into what the City has already accomplished and what tasks could be prioritized
for the coming year. The described goals, priorities, and task lists will be provided for
consideration to the City Council at the February 3rd meeting, in addition to a list of
recommendations for 2014 goals and priorities as established by the Planning
Commission at their January 14, 2013 meeting.
5) Environmental Assessment of 5952 Large Ave. NE (Former Sunoco Gas Station).
Red Rooster Properties, Inc., prospective buyers for the property located at 5952 Large
Avenue NE, requested a CUP to allow a drive through service window for a fast food
business in October of 2013. The site, previously used by Sunoco gas station, also
accommodated motor fuel sale, auto repair, car wash, and convenience store uses.
Since October, Red Rooster Properties undertook Phase 1 and Phase 2 environmental
assessments of the site and discovered the existence of fuel spills. The environmental
assessments were released to the State and the prospective buyer has decided not to
close on the property until receiving additional information on the extent of the spills.
Should the spills require significant clean-up, the cost may be integrated in the purchase
cost. The condition of existing fuel tanks on the property are good, leading Red Rooster
to believe that the spills are in fact not serious, in which case the buyer would proceed
with closing on the property and anticipates moving forward with the project later this
spring.
Agenda Page 14
Mayor and Council Communication
M:\Public Data\City Council\Council Packet information\2014\012114\2014-01-21 Voting Precincts.doc
Meeting Date: January 21, 2014
January 16, 2014
SUBJECT: CITY CLERK – VOTING PRECINCTS DISCUSSION (NO ACTION REQUIRED)
RECOMMENDATION: This item is included on the agenda for the purpose of discussion and
feedback from the Council.
BACKGROUND: In the budget discussions and workshops for the 2014 budget, staff identified
the need to create an additional voting precinct/polling location. This topic was mentioned to the
Council during the State redistricting process in 2010, but was not pursued.
KEY ISSUES:
• Albertville’s precinct size exceeds the recommendations of the MN Secretary of State’s
Office. Albertville has approximately 3,714 voters in its precinct and the SOS
recommends no more than 2,000-2,500 voters per precinct.
• Albertville’s precinct is one of the largest in Wright County and is larger than all
precincts in Hennepin, Meeker, Sherburne, and Stearns Counties.
• Parking is an issue at City Hall on Election Day.
• The Community Room and halls cannot accommodate the number of voters, especially
during the peak morning and evening hours. We have experienced lines 4-5 rows deep in
the main corridor and into the parking lot.
• Crowded conditions lead to voters in the wrong registration lines and can lead to mistakes
on the part of election judges.
• Elections are closely scrutinized each year and having adequate space and conditions
helps to ensure a successful election.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS: Since 2010, the City has been putting aside any unused,
budgeted amounts for elections into the capital reserves in preparation of purchase or
replacement of equipment and/or the possibility of an additional precinct.
RECOMMENDED ACTION/TIMELINE: A change in polling location should not be done in
a Presidential Election year. Residents must be notified by mail and this can be done with Postal
Verification cards to homes of all registered voters. Other means of notification can be the City
newsletter, North Crow River News, and City website. Below is a suggested timeline for actions
needed:
Bolded items will need Council action or recommendation:
Jan. 21-Feb. 3 Staff Identifies Possible Polling Locations & Precinct Boundary Lines
Feb. 3 Suggested Boundaries and Poll Locations Presented to Council
Feb. 10-26 Secure Polling Locations
Mar. 3 Approve Resolution Establishing Precinct Boundaries
Agenda Page 15
Mayor and Council Communication – TUESDAY, January 21, 2014
Voting Precincts Page 2 of 2
M:\Public Data\City Council\Council Packet information\2014\012114\2014-01-21 Voting Precincts.doc
Meeting Date: January 21, 2014
Mar. 4-31 Notification to Wright County Auditor and Secretary of State
File Base Map to County and State
Mar.-Apr. Mail Notice to Residents of Polling Location/Changes
Mar. 17 or Apr.7 Council Approval of Equipment Purchase
Apr. 1-7 Article in City Newsletter
July Utility Bill Insert identifying precinct and poll locations
Oct. 1-7 Article in City Newsletter
If Council is supportive of adding an additional precinct, staff will move forward with the
timeline outlined above.
POLICY/PROCEDURES: The Mayor and City Council have the authority to adjust and
establish precinct boundaries as needed anytime after the two years following redistricting.
Responsible Person/Department: Kimberly A. Olson, City Clerk
Submitted Through: Adam Nafstad, City Administrator-PWD
Agenda Page 16
Mayor and Council Request for Action
M:\Public Data\City Council\Council Packet information\2014\012114\2014-01-21 Sewer Trunk Ord RCA.doc
Meeting Date: January 21, 2014
January 16, 2014
SUBJECT: LEGAL – ORDINANCE MODIFYING THE INTEREST RATE CHARGED ON SEWER AND
WATER TRUNK CHARGES FOR THE CSAH 37 TRUNK DISTRICTS
RECOMMENDATION: It is respectfully requested that the Mayor and Council consider the
following:
MOTION TO: Approve Ordinance No. 2014-01 entitled An Ordinance Modifying Sanitary
Sewer and Municipal Water Trunk District Charges.
BACKGROUND: Late in 2013, the City Council approved a reduction in the interest rate on
the special assessments levied against the Niemeyer property as a means to spur economic
development on the Niemeyer property and in recognition of the interest savings the City
achieved via a bond refinancing that was tied to this project. Although the Neimeyer property
was special assessed for the installation of sewer and water service, the neighboring properties
were not special assessed, but were instead included in sanitary sewer and municipal water
districts which require payment upon connection to the utilities. In the meantime, interest
accrues on the original per-acre sewer and water charges that were established with the districts.
When the Council lowered the interest rate of Niemeyer’s special assessments, it directed City
staff to prepare a change in the sewer and water district ordinance to provide for a similar interest
rate reduction for those properties in the district. The attached ordinance lowers the interest rate
from 6.2% to 5.8% for the properties in the district, effective January 1, 2014.
KEY ISSUES:
• This change will treat all property owners in the district and Niemeyer equally, charging
them the same interest rates over the same time periods.
• The change in interest rate is effective January 1, 2014, the same date that Niemeyer’s
change in interest rate goes into effect.
POLICY/PRACTICES CONSIDERATIONS: This change will effectively apply the same
policy to all property owners served by the CSAH 37 sewer and water expansion.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS: While the City will take in less revenue than it otherwise
would with this change, the reduction in interest rate on the connection charges is the same as the
reduction in interest rate the City realized on the bond refinancing that funded this project. As a
result, the City will realize the same amount of money that it had originally projected receiving,
provided all properties eventually connect to City sewer and water and pay their trunk charges.
Agenda Page 17
Mayor and Council Request for Action – January 21, 2014
INTEREST RATE ON SEWER AND WATER TRUNK CHARGES Page 2 of 2
M:\Public Data\City Council\Council Packet information\2014\012114\2014-01-21 Sewer Trunk Ord RCA.doc
Meeting Date: January 21, 2014
LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS: The City Council has the legal authority to pass on savings
from a bond refinancing via a reduction in interest rates.
Responsible Person/Department/: Mike Couri, City Attorney
Submitted Through: Adam Nafstad, City Administrator-PWD
Attachments: Ordinance No. 2014-01
Agenda Page 18
Page 1
CITY OF ALBERTVILLE
COUNTY OF WRIGHT
STATE OF MINNESOTA
ORDINANCE NO. 2014-01
AN ORDINANCE MODIFYING SANITARY SEWER AND
MUNICIPAL WATER TRUNK DISTRICT CHARGES
The City Council of the City of Albertville, Minnesota hereby ordains:
Section 1. Section 9-1-2-4.D.1 of the Albertville City Code is hereby amended to read as
follows:
D. Amount Of Charge: The municipal sewer trunk access charge shall be as follows:
1. Sixteen thousand nine hundred twenty dollars ($16,920.00) per acre for all property (but
excluding delineated wetlands) located within the municipal sanitary sewer trunk district which
is platted or connected to the city's sanitary sewer system, plus interest at a rate of 6.2 percent per
annum from October 19, 2009 through December 31, 2013, plus interest at a rate of 5.8 percent
per annum from January 1, 2014 to the date of payment of such charge; and
Section 2. Section 9-1-2-3.D.1 of the Albertville City Code is hereby amended to read as
follows:
D. Amount Of Charge: The municipal water trunk access charge shall be as follows:
1. Six thousand four hundred eight dollars ($6,408.00) per acre for all property (but excluding
delineated wetlands) located within the municipal water trunk district which is platted or
connected to the water system, plus interest at a rate of 6.2 percent per annum from October 19,
2009 through December 31, 2013, plus interest at a rate of 5.8 percent per annum from January
1, 2014 to the date of payment of such charge; and
Section 3. This ordinance shall be effective upon its passage and publication.
Passed by the Albertville City Council this 21st day of January 2014.
_____________________________________
Jillian Hendrickson, Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________________________
Kimberly A. Olson, City Clerk
Agenda Page 19
Mayor and Council Request for Action
M:\Public Data\City Council\Council Packet information\2014\012114\2014-01-21 School Funding Letter.doc
Meeting Date: January 21, 2014
January 16, 2014
SUBJECT: ADMINISTRATION – SUPPORT OF SCHOOL FUNDING EDITORIAL FOR STAR
TRIBUNE NEWSPAPER
RECOMMENDATION: It is respectfully requested that the Mayor and Council consider the
following:
MOTION TO: Endorse editorial prepared by STMA School Board for publication in the Star
Tribune and titled “In Education, Kids are Not Treated Equally”.
INFORMATION: STMA School Superintendant Dr. Behle is requesting permission from the
Cities of Albertville and St. Michael to endorse the attached editorial prepared by School Board
Member Birk. Inequity in education funding has been a longtime discussion in our area and was
recently discussed at our joint governments meeting this past fall.
If endorsed by the City Council, the publication will read as such: “Supported by Albertville
City Council:.
Submitted Through: Adam Nafstad, City Administrator-PWD
Attachments: School Funding Letter
Agenda Page 20
To: School Board and Dr. James Behle
From: Doug Birk
Re: Proposed Star Tribune Editorial
Word count: 750 (maximum: 750)
IN EDUCATION, KIDS ARE NOT TREATED EQUALLY
When it comes to school finance reform, Minnesota can do better.
Today, similar children in similar school districts throughout Minnesota receive vastly different
sums of per pupil education spending based on where their parents choose to live. Our state’s
current policy for funding public education is grossly inequitable, irrational, and inexplicable.
No other legislative issue has a greater potential impact on the long-term quality of life and
economic vitality of Minnesota. Every biennium Minnesota spends nearly $14 billion dollars on
education- roughly 50% of the state’s budget. How that money is allocated affects educational
competitiveness, innovation, the vibrancy of local economies that remain intimately tied to the
success of our local public schools, and the state’s ongoing bipartisan consensus to equip each
child the basic tools needed to succeed.
In 2014, the projected disparity in annual general education revenue per pupil between school
districts is $1800. This statewide opportunity gap is further exacerbated by the increasing
reliance on local property taxes to fund education resulting in spectacular benefits to school
districts with greater commercial property wealth. When you add in local levies, the overall
range in per pupil annual spending between districts is nearly $7000.
Sadly, the bulk of this inequity is not generated by student need, but greed. The sheer
complexity of Minnesota’s existing school finance framework has insulated the system from
much pressure for reform. And you don’t need to be a political scientist to identify the
tangential connection between the state’s wealthiest school districts and communities of
greater statewide political and economic affluence. In the absence of any vocal dissent,
individual legislators representing wealthier school districts, regardless of party, have not been
motivated to significantly change a system benefiting their constituents.
Despite these obstacles, the state legislature finally passed legislation in the last session
partially aimed at closing the education spending gap. While a positive step, the legislature can
do better. The reforms only slightly narrowed the overall spending gap between the very
wealthiest and very poorest districts- districts previously unable to pass a local levy- and the
majority of districts in the bottom 15% in per pupil spending did not fare much better than
before.
Agenda Page 21
This reality has prompted several prominent educational organizations to continue the call for
more finance reform including the Minnesota School Board Association, Schools for Equity in
Education, and the Minnesota Association of School Administrators.
So how do you solve it? First, we need to put a greater emphasis on the basic funding formula
and re-examine the myriad of categorical state formula designations that are often unrelated to
any rational need. Second, we need to increase state equalization of property taxes in districts
where the commercial property base is low. Otherwise, identical local levies will continue to
cost residential taxpayers substantially more in commercially poorer areas. Finally, we need to
recognize that this is not a partisan issue.
Of course, it won’t be a perfectly level playing field- not all school districts should receive an
exactly equal or proportional share of general fund tax dollars. There is a broad spectrum of
tangible educational need that decidedly impacts some school districts more than others. As a
matter of state policy, these unique student challenges that vary between districts should
continue be addressed.
But these substantive needs do not account for the current spending gap between the
wealthiest and poorest school districts. This gap is pitting half of the state’s districts against the
other half and affecting the ability of disadvantaged districts to attract and retain quality
teachers, provide competitive course offerings, and continue to innovate.
In the current system of winners and losers, we all eventually lose. In the long run, Minnesota
simply cannot create a 21st century state economy under an educational rubric where half of its
children and their communities are left behind.
This is a critical moment. After nearly a decade of belt tightening, the State now has a near
billion dollar surplus. This surplus is creating great political momentum at the capital to finally
invest significant state funds in special education after decades of imposing significant costs on
school districts through unfunded federal and state mandates- an admirable objective.
However, alleviating the gross inequity in public education funding is equally important.
If the state legislature does not seize upon this unique moment to address the significant
inequity in per pupil education spending and at least attempt to close the gap it never will. The
legislature’s work is not done. Considering this issue affects opportunity for thousands of
children throughout the state, failing to take any action would be unconscionable. Our kids
deserve better.
Agenda Page 22
City Administrator’s Update
January 15, 2014
GENERAL ADMINISTRATION
54th Street NE and Barthel Industrial Drive NE Flood Claims: We are waiting to hear back from
the League regarding the compromise settlements. It is understood that the League will cover
any costs above the City’s deductable.
STMA Ice Arena: The Arena Board recently approved plans and specifications for the project.
Staff is anticipating an award of the contract in late February. The Board is also in the process
of reviewing the proposed 2014 Arena Budget, which they plan to approve on or before their
March meeting.
Status of RiverRider Service: Based on meeting with MnDOT Transit staff, Wright County
officials, and many others on January 15, it is likely that RiverRider will not be our transit
provider past July 1, 2014. However, MnDOT Transit made it very clear that another transit
provider will be in place for continued service.
Niemeyer Trailer Sales: We were recently informed by Niemeyer Trailer Sales they are moving
forward with their project in 2014. The project is scheduled to appear before the Planning
Commission and City Council in March. Niemeyer anticipates a construction start late-March to
early-April.
Informational Brochures: I have asked the City Planner to provide a proposal to develop
informational brochures specific to Albertville’s codes and zoning. Potential topics include:
outdoor storage, off-street parking, property maintenance, accessory structures, rental
property, seasonal sales, and home occupations. The cost to develop approximately 8 different
brochures (1 topic per each) is approximately $1,150. The brochures will be easier than City
Code to read and disseminate. I believe these communication pieces would be beneficial to
residents, businesses, and staff. I will provide sample brochures to the Council at the meeting
on the 21st and ask if this is something the Council has interest in.
Prairie Run Lots: Staff has met with builders interested in purchasing the City-owned Prairie
Run residential lots. Staff is under the impression that the City will receive a purchase offer
soon.
ENGINEERING/PUBLIC WORKS
Public Building Interconnect: The phone/voice upgrades will be installed at the end of the
month. We anticipate having the project complete and active by the end of February.
57th Street NE Improvements: Staff is informally negotiating right-of-way costs with the Church
of St. Albert.
Agenda Page 23
City Administrator’s Update Page 2 of 2 January 16, 2014
Barthel Industrial Drive NE and 54th Street NE Drainage: The drainage report and
improvement design are underway. I expect to have both documents by the end of February.
Watermain Breaks: This winter we have had four (4) watermain breaks (2 on Main Avenue NE
– 2 on CSAH 19). One of the breaks on the 5800 block of Main Avenue NE caused some flood
damage to the 152 Club. Staff is working with the City’s insurance agent and the 152 Club to
address the damage claim. One of the breaks on CSAH 19 near the Park-n-Ride required lane
closure of the northbound lanes and nighttime repair.
UPCOMING EVENTS and ANNOUNCEMENTS
• January 28 (Tuesday) – I-94 Chamber State of the Cities Event, 11:30 AM, St. Michael
City Center. Please let us know if you are interested in attending.
ATTACHMENTS: (none)
Agenda Page 24