SUNFISH LAKE CITY COUNCIL MEETING – APRIL 2, 2013
7:00 P.M. - ST. ANNE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
Attendants:
Mayor: Molly Park
Councilmembers: Mike Hovey, Cathy DeCourcy, JoAnne Wahlstrom, and Steven Bulach.
City Attorney: Tim Kuntz
City Planner: Michelle Barness
City Engineer: Tom Voll
City Treasurer: Mike Blair
City Forester: Jim Nayes
Building Inspector: David Neameyer
City Clerk: Cathy Iago
and Members of the General Public.
1. CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Park opened the meeting at 7:00 p.m. and requested a moment of silence in remembrance of Michael Pratt, former resident and husband of Lynette Olson.
2. APPROVE AGENDA: Mayor Park asked if there were any additions or corrections to the agenda and there was no response.
Councilmember Hovey moved approval of the Agenda as amended, seconded by Councilmember Wahlstrom and carried. (5-0)
3. CONSENT AGENDA: The Mayor asked if there were any questions or comments relating to any items on the Consent Agenda.
Councilmember DeCourcy asked if Cathy Iago is also the City Administrator as shown in the List of Bills and the Mayor responded yes.
Mayor Park noted a correction in the March 5 Council minutes. She explained that name for the Schaeffer’s contractor was misspelled; the contractor’s name is Keith Heaver. Clerk Iago stated she would make the corrections.
Mayor Park asked if there were any further comments and there was no response.
Councilmember DeCourcy moved approval of the Consent Agenda with corrections to the minutes as noted by Mayor Park, seconded by Councilmember Hovey and carried. (5-0)
a. Regular Council meeting minutes of March 5, 2013.
b. List of Bills
c. Monthly Financials
4. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC: Mayor Park asked if there were any comments from the public and there was no response.
5. PUBLIC HEARING: a. Review the City’s Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program Plan (SWPPP) and the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES): Mayor Park opened the public hearing for the purpose of reviewing the City’s Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program Plan (SWPPP) and the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES).
Jesse Carlson, from the engineering firm of WSB was present and distributed information relating to the Phase II National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit. He explained that the City must report on the City’s previous years activities by June 30th every year and that City is required to conduct an annual public hearing; the purpose of the hearing is to educate the public on what can be done to improve water quality, to insure that the permit requirements have been met, and to receive public input. He advised that the City is also required to have Best Management Practices (BMP) and he reviewed the six minimum control measures undertaken annually; 1) public education and outreach, 2) public participation and involvement, 3) illicit discharge detection and elimination, 4) construction site storm water runoff control, 5) post-construction storm water management, and 6) pollution prevention and good housekeeping for municipal operations.
Mr. Carlson explained that the City fulfilled the permit requirements for 2012 by posting information to residents on the City website and via the City newsletter. He noted that the articles included information relating to recycling and encouraging installation of rain gardens. He advised that the following BMP’s were completed in 2012; culvert and ditch cleaning on Charlton Road, street sweeping, updated septic pumping record, the Citizen Associated Monitoring (CAMP) Program for monitoring lake water quality and establishment of the Watershed Restoration and Projection (WRAP) project by the Lower Mississippi River Watershed Management Organization (LMRWMO). The WRAP project survey was initiated last fall by the LMRWMO and Sunfish Lake was identified as impaired. He noted that modeling and reviewing sediments in the lake would be undertaken and then develop a plan to address the water quality issues.
Mr. Carlson advised the 2013 MS4 Permit objectives are to expand public outreach and storm water related programming, conduct the Arbor Day clean-up, update the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP) and review grant opportunities. He noted that the City of Sunfish Lake does not have organized storm sewer systems and therefore, does not have many areas that they are responsible for. Their responsibilities are primarily the roadway ditches and culverts within the City.
Mr. Carlson explained that in 2012 the City operated under the 2010 MS4 Permit objectives as previously discussed and pointed out that in 2012 there were no construction sites greater than 1-acre. He stated that the City will continue to operate under the 2010 permit until the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has completed its review of the current requirements and determined if any new requirements are necessary. He advised that the MPCA is in the process of revising the permit and that a citizen’s board would be reviewing the information. He stated that after the review is conducted, the City will have between 90-150 days to review their SWPPP and make revisions to address the new MS4 requirements. He advised that although Sunfish Lake has very little areas that are regulated by the MS4 permit, the MPCA requires all metropolitan cities to be permitted and to conduct an annual public hearing. He noted that the permit regulates storm water drainage from culverts that flow into wetlands and there are a few that do so in the City.
Mr. Carlson stated that after the public hearing, staff will respond to any comments received and that the annual report would then be finalized and submitted to the MPCA.
Mr. Carlson briefly reviewed information on the Total Maximum Discharge Loads (TMDLs) that are part of the permitting process. He indicated that the MPCA is considering imposing a 25% reduction in the Turbidity levels that are discharged into the river. He advised that the City is located in both the Upper Mississippi River Bacteria TMDL and South Metro Mississippi River Turbidity TMDL discharge areas. He pointed out that due to the rural status of the City and that very little water overflows to the Mississippi River, it is the opinion of the City Engineer that there is a minor amount of discharge in Sunfish Lake and his firm, WSB, would submit a letter outlining this information and expressing concerns relating to placing onus on the City for responsibility under this TMDL.
Mr. Carlson summarized by explaining that the City would continue to implement the Best Management Practices (BMP) of the SWPPP until the effective date of reissue of the MS4 permit and he reviewed the revised MS4 Permit components as outlined in his handout. He offered to respond to questions.
Councilmember DeCourcy asked for an explanation of the blue colored tanks shown in the handout and also why pesticides and herbicides were not listed as pollutants. Mr. Carlson explained the tanks are examples of containers to capture rainwater. He further advised that herbicides would not be classified as pollutants, but phosphorous maybe at issue.
Councilmember Hovey commented that pollutants may refer more to E-coli. Mr. Carlson agreed and noted that the Mississippi River currently exceeds the standards for E-coli.
Mayor Park pointed out that citizens should be encouraged to pickup dog waste, but there would also be waste from wild turkeys, deer and other animals. Mr. Carlson explained that the City has no control over wild animal waste and would only be required to eliminate what they have control over.
Forester Nayes explained that he lives on Horseshoe Lake and that water from the lake never discharges over land; he commented that this is most likely true for Sunfish Lake. Mr. Carlson agreed and suggested that could be cited in the letter to the MPCA if data could be compiled with information to back-up the claim.
Attorney Kuntz asked if the ponds owned by MnDOT are monitored by MnDOT. Mr. Carlson replied that MnDOT is an MS4 and they are responsible maintaining the storm sewer within their road right-of-way; however, sometimes MnDOT assigns responsibility for monitoring these ponds to the community. He offered to check into this matter.
Mr. Carlson offered to respond to questions.
Councilmember DeCourcy asked if Dakota County offers assistance for removal of milfoil from lakes. Mr. Carlson stated he was unsure and commented that the DNR may offer assistance in this area.
Mr. Carlson further advised that a public hearing is scheduled April 16 to provide residents with information on the WRAP project and that Sunfish Lake would be discussed. The City Clerk stated she had distributed a flyer with the meeting information to Council and also had it placed on the City website. Mayor Park stated she would be attending the meeting with the two LMRWMO representatives.
Mayor Park asked if there were any comments from the public and there was no response. The Mayor closed the public hearing at 7:26 p.m. and thanked Mr. Carlson for the presentation.
6. PLANNING COMMISSION/PLANNER’S REPORT: a. Planning Report: Planner Barness referred Council to her report dated March 27, 2013. She stated that there were no new applications for review at the March Planning Commission meeting, but the Commission met to discuss solid wall fences and tree removal guidelines.
The Planner advised that solid wall fences are currently prohibited by ordinance, but may be allowed if a variance is approved. She indicated that staff found it difficult to determine “practical difficulties” to allow for a deviation from the City’s architectural standards while reviewing recent applications for this type of variance. She explained that the Commission discussed this issue at its December 19, 2012 meeting and directed staff to review ordinances from surrounding communities and staff provided documentation of relevant ordinances from several communities in the Metro Area. She presented this information at the March 20, 2013 meeting to the Commission and noted that a pending application for the property at 393 Salem Church Road includes a request for a 2 ft. high solid wall structure.
Planner Barness stated that the Commission expressed concern relating to the height of solid wall fences, given the potential visual impact on the surrounding neighbors. She advised that the Commission requested that an ordinance amendment to allowing solid wall fences of a specific height, 2-1/2 to 3 feet, be drafted. She further noted that the Commission suggested the amendment include language that requires the solid wall fence to meet all other existing fence standards with regards to location and design. Planning staff will draft the ordinance amendment for Planning Commission review at their April 17, 2013 meeting and a recommendation would be presented to Council in May.
The Planner stated that the Commission also discussed tree harvesting guidelines in response to recent concerns from neighbors regarding this type of activity at 6 Acorn Drive. She explained that she worked with Forester Nayes to prepare information and guidelines for tree removal by a contractor or a private resident. She noted that there was discussion by the Commission relating to the neighbors concerns that the tree removal was extensive and there was no way for the City to verify that the correct trees were removed from the property. She noted that the Commission also expressed concern that the tree removal was done by a contractor and was arranged by a third party, which made it difficult for the neighbors to contact the property owner to express their concerns.
Planner Barness stated that the Commission suggested tree removal guidelines and information pertaining to woodland management to provide to the community via the City website or the City newsletter. She explained that the Commission did not deem it necessary to amend the current ordinances, but indicated they wished to have a venue to allow the City and neighbors to be more involved when such activities occur on private properties. The Commission suggested the use of an application, such as the permission slip for fishing on the lake that is currently placed on the City website. She advised that residents could go to the website to get the application and the City would then have a record that describes the intended tree harvesting activities on their land. She further advised that the application could be reviewed by the City Forester, who would have a chance to discuss the tree removal operation and also provide woodland management information to the property owner. She explained that this type of permit would be separate from minor or major site and building plan reviews where it is required to have the landscape plan reviewed by the City Forester.
The Planner stated that staff would create a draft of the tree harvesting application for review by the Commission and Council and that she would continue to work with the City Forester to prepare tree harvesting and woodland management guidelines for the community.
Councilmember DeCourcy asked if the City has a “clear-cut” ordinance in place and noted that previously a resident was asked to stop tree removal from their land.
Councilmember Hovey recalled that the resident was removing buckthorn from their property and other invasive species.
Mayor Park recalled that the resident was asked if they were going to restore the area where the removal occurred. She noted that the tree removal issues at 6 Acorn Drive related to behavioral issues such as parking of trucks and equipment on the property, hours of operation, length of the project, and lack of information on who to contact.
The Planner explained that she was unaware of an ordinance that prohibits “clear-cutting”. Forester Nayes advised that the current ordinance limits the numbers and size of the trees that may be removed and requires a meeting with the Forester prior to undertaking the removal. He pointed out that by establishing a permission slip for tree removal it would provide information to the City on what is being done and who to contact with concerns.
Attorney Kuntz pointed out that the permission slip would also provide an invitation to residents to discuss woodland management with the City Forester. He questioned what would trigger the permit.
The Planner pointed out that the permission slip is voluntary so there is no process to institute obtaining the permission.
Mayor Park commented that the City must inform the residents that this is a requirement, such as the permission slip to fish on the lake. Forester Nayes commented that communication is key to directing the project and that the permission slip would invite questions and discussion on how to proceed.
In discussion it was recommended that this information be provided to residents in an upcoming City newsletter and via the City website.
The Planner stated that an application was submitted for the property at 393 Salem Church Road and the proposal is to remove the existing home and construct a new home on a different location on the site. She explained that the application appears to meet all ordinance requirements with the exception of the solid wall fence. This application will be reviewed by the Commission at their April meeting and presented to Council in May.
Planner Barness reviewed the Administrative Permit request submitted by the Mike and Mag Hovey at 2030 Charlton Road to raise chickens on their property. She explained that the City Forester met with the applicants to view the site and discuss the request; the Forester provided a written report with his recommendation for approval of the request with specific conditions. She noted that staff sent out notices to surrounding properties regarding the request and no feedback was received from neighbors. The permit was approved for a period of one year, based on the conditions of the Forester.
The Planner explained that staff corresponded with residents at 2154 and 2158 Charlton Road regarding a minor subdivision. She noted that one property is platted and the other is not, therefore, she contacted Dakota County to confirm that the lot combination could be recorded and was advised that it could. She also contacted the City Attorney and they concluded that the request could proceed as requested for a minor subdivision
Councilmember Hovey asked if the properties abut Charlton Road and if the City has easements and, if not, this may be the time to request an easement.
The Planner responded that 2158 Charlton Road abuts the road, but she was unsure if the City has easements. She offered to research the matter. She stated that the Planning Commission would meet on April 17 to discuss the tree harvesting permit, solid wall fence ordinance amendment and review the application for 393 Salem Church Road.
The Mayor asked if there were any further questions and there was no response.
Council thanked the Planner for her report.
7. STAFF REPORTS: a. Building Inspector: Building Inspector David Neameyer stated that he issued one (1) permit and closed one (1) permit in March.
Council thanked the Inspector for his report.
b. City Engineer: 2013 City Map Update: Engineer Voll stated that the City map had been updated for 2013 and a copy was emailed to Council and staff and also hard copies are available this evening. He asked that if Council or staff saw any corrections, they should contact him.
SWPPP Public Hearing: Engineer Voll advised that Jesse Carlson from WSB conducted the required annual Public Hearing to review and discuss the city’s Storm Water Pollution Prevention (SWPPP) Plan, asked for input and comments from the residents regarding storm water runoff and water quality issues and these concerns will be included in his annual report to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency as required per the NPDES permit. Mr. Carlson will provide ways that both the city and residents can help improve not only Sunfish Lake’s water quality, but the other City lakes as well. A report on the hearing and permit will be presented to Council when completed.
Inver Grove Heights Storm Sewer Improvement Cost Participation Update: Engineer Voll stated that on March 25 Engineer Sterna attended a joint meeting with the cities of Inver Grove Heights and South St. Paul to review the preliminary results of the cost-allocation study for improvements to the emergency overflow outlet for Pond T-23 in the City of Inver Grove Heights. The Mayor and Judy MacManus, from Sunfish Lake, were also present. MnDOT initiated the project and at this time has allocated $62,000 towards it. The total project costs are estimated at approximately $312,000 of which $250,000 would need to be funded by the surrounding contributing Cities. The preliminary results of the study were discussed and a general framework for an agreement was established. The LMRWMO will be finalizing their study report in April based on this framework which will be forwarded to the surrounding cities for comments. He explained that Sunfish Lake has less impervious surface and therefore the LMRWMO will be revising the estimated costs and should be asking for approximately $3,000 to $5,000 from the City versus the original much higher estimate.
Mayor Park advised that she also attended the meeting with the Engineer and representative Judy MacManus; she noted that it appears they will request MnDOT to share a greater percentage of the costs. She also pointed out that West St. Paul and South St. Paul would be paying a lesser amount than Sunfish Lake, but those cities contribute a smaller amount of runoff.
Councilmember Hovey discussed the fact that the City was not required to contribute funds for the 2002 road project on Delaware and Highway 110 when the stop light was installed, but as good neighbors the City participated in the costs. He questioned why the City was being asked to contribute to this project.
Attorney Kuntz explained that the stop light project was a street improvement and smaller cities do not receive Municipal State Aid (MSA) funding for street projects, therefore the County did not ask for funds. He noted the Inver Grove Heights project is a storm water area project and Sunfish Lake does contribute to the runoff.
Delaware Avenue Safety Concern from March Council Meeting: An email was sent to Kristi Sebastine, Dakota County Traffic Engineer, last month relaying the concerns that were raised at the March 5, 2013 Council meeting. The County indicated that they were able to find the accident report and will be reviewing the concerns in April. Engineer Sterna will contact the County in April to check on the status of their review and may conduct a site visit to the area. Engineer Voll explained that the County is more likely to respond to the request to provide a guardrail or other safety method due to the fact a fatality occurred.
2014 Street Reconstruction Project: Engineer Voll referred to the map in the engineer’s report dated March 29, 2013 and reviewed the proposed street reconstruction project area. He explained that the 2013 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) identified the need to reconstruct a portion of Windy Hill Road and Upper 55th Street, along with milling and overlaying Windy Hills Court, Windy Hill Road, Upper 55th Street and the western section of Angell Road in 2014. He reviewed the brief scope of work, the schedule, and the cost estimates for engineering fees. He noted that at this time staff is requesting Council to order preparation of the feasibility report at a cost of $5,500 as shown under Phase I. He explained that after Council orders and reviews the feasibility report, the next step would be to conduct a public hearing to discuss the findings and potential assessments.
The Engineer explained that last weekend there was a drainage issue at the intersection of Windy Hill Court and Windy Hill Road where significant ponding occurred. He explained that some areas of the road are beyond repair with seal coating and will need full reconstruction, while other areas require mill and overlay.
Mayor Park commented that Windy Hills Court was established in 1989 and questioned if this would be the first time the road would be going through the full cycle of repair. She also asked if residents are assessed for mill and overlay.
Engineer Voll responded yes and noted that the road is at its normal life cycle for mill and overlay. He commented that he is not familiar with the City’s assessment policy.
Councilmember Bulach recalled that mill and overlay is partially assessed to property owners.
Attorney Kuntz pointed out that an assessment policy was adopted and the engineer could send copies to Council. He noted that the adopted policy was based on previous assessments for improvement projects.
Engineer Voll pointed out that assessments would be discussed in the final phase of the project and would be based on appraisals of the properties to show land value increase and benefit. He advised that the costs for appraisals were shown in the final design phase of the project, but could be moved into the preliminary phase as part of the feasibility report.
Attorney Kuntz pointed out that in light of lessened market values, it may be wise to have the appraisals done earlier in the process so that the City would know the benefit to properties prior to the public hearing.
Engineer Voll advised that $1,500 was estimated for the appraisals and could be included as part of the approval this evening or could be authorized after review of the feasibility report.
After a brief discussion, Council concurred to authorize the feasibility report at this time and consider the appraisal costs after reviewing the feasibility report.
Mayor Park asked if there were any further questions regarding the feasibility report authorization and there was no response.
Councilmember Wahlstrom moved to authorize funds not to exceed $5,500 to prepare the feasibility report for the 2014 Street Reconstruction Project as outlined in Phase I of the Engineer’s proposal, seconded by Councilmember Bulach, and carried. (5-0)
Spring Load Limit Posting: The Engineer stated that the spring load limits were posted on the City streets effective March 27. He indicated that the limits should remain in place through the entire month of April and into early May. All of the City streets are posted at a 5-ton limit with the exception of Charlton Road which is posted at 4-tons.
Councilmember Hovey asked if a map showing the postings could be sent to him for placing on the website and the engineer responded yes.
Public Works Activities Undertaken in the Month of March: 2013 Street Sweeping Quotes: Engineer Voll stated that the City received three (3) quotes to complete street sweeping this spring. Engineer Sterna recommended that the Council take action to award the contract to Mike McPhillips at a cost of $1,500. Attached to the Engineer’s report is a brief summary of the quotes and the basis for the recommendation.
Councilmember Bulach suggested that the shoulders of the road be re-graded prior to sweeping the streets; he noted that there are piles of dirt on Salem Church Road that are washing out and that Charlton Road has numerous ruts. He asked if Charlton Road could be re-graded prior to the sweeping.
Mayor Park asked what it would cost to complete the grading.
Engineer Voll suggested that Pine bend Paving could provide the re-grading of the shoulders prior to the sweeping and explained that there are funds available in the general road maintenance budget for this purpose. He suggested that he would confirm the funding and costs with Engineer Sterna.
Mayor Park pointed out that the snow plowing budget is well below the estimates and suggested those funds might be used for the re-grading.
Councilmember Bulach moved to award the 2013 Street Sweeping Contract to Mike McPhillips at a cost of $1,500, seconded by Councilmember Hovey and carried (5-0)
2013 Street Sign Quotes Engineer Voll stated that quotes were received for street sign maintenance to replace old or damaged signs. He stated that the original budget was established at $5,000; however, not all of the repair work was originally included in the request. He explained that since the quotes were more favorable than anticipated, and not all of the repair work was included in the original estimate, Engineer Sterna requested additional funds, not to exceed $6,750 be authorized to complete more repairs. He advised that this matter could be tabled until the next meeting to allow Council time to review the unit prices on the bid and determine if they wish to include more repairs.
Mayor Park clarified that staff is asking that additional sign repairs be included because the price for the work was so reasonable. The Engineer responded yes.
Councilmember Wahlstrom asked when staff wished the project to start. The Engineer responded that originally the work was scheduled for completion in June; therefore, it should begin as soon as possible. He noted that the quote is valid for 25 days.
Attorney Kuntz suggested Council could authorize the original amount so the contractor could begin the work and then ask the contractor to expand the work for the same prices shown in the quote. Engineer Voll agreed and suggested staff could prepare a change order for the additional work.
Councilmember Hovey asked if Salem Church Road was included in the original contract. The Engineer stated he was unsure and would check that information.
Mayor Park asked if there were any further comments or questions and there was no response.
Councilmember Bulach moved to award the bid for 2013 Street Sign repair to Safety Signs in the amount of $3,973.50 and to direct staff to contact the company to request a change order for additional work at the same price listed in the quote, seconded by Councilmember DeCourcy and carried (5-0)|
Snow Plowing Activity: The Engineer explained that the current snowplow expenditures through March 15 have been $14,621 out of the $35,000 budget. He explained there may be some additional costs for snow plowing events since that time; however he was unsure of those costs at this time. He stated the roads are in generally good condition with the exception of the intersection of Windy Hill Road and Windy Hills Court where significant ponding developed. The ponding in this area has caused driving accessibility issues. He explained he asked the contractor who worked in the area this weekend to open up a hole through the snow banks and try to remove as much ice as possible to improve this condition. He asked that Council notify Engineer Sterna of any calls from residents regarding snow and ice removal concerns so he may notify the contractor and provide clear direction.
Anticipated Engineer/Public Works Activities’ for the Month of April:
- Prepare the Draft 2014-2019 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) – The CIP is updated yearly to review the previous year’s CIP and incorporate any completed improvements and plans for the future needs of the City. The Engineer will finalize the Draft 2014-2019 CIP for Council review during April and for discussion at the May meeting.
- 393 Salem Church Road Site Plan Review – In March there was a request for a major site and grading plan review for this property; he will be providing comments to the Planner’s office prior to April 12.
The Engineer explained that the contract for seal coating was signed by the contractor and that the project should begin in June. He advised that staff would be requesting a quote for striping of the street after the project is completed.
Councilmember DeCourcy questioned where the temporary speed bump was located and also if Musser Park should have an address since one had been given to Harmon Park.
Engineer Voll stated he would check on the speed bump status with Engineer Sterna.
Chief Shaver explained that he would review establishing an address for Musser Park, but commented that park is easier to identify because it abuts Salem Church Road.
Clerk Iago suggested that Council consider Item 8.c. at this time and they concurred.
8.c. Consider Approval Consider Approval of 2nd Amendment to Joint Powers Agreement Establishing a Watershed Management Organization for the Lower Mississippi River Watershed: Engineer Voll explained that he spoke with Engineer Sterna and was advised that he reviewed the amendment and found no issues for concern. He explained that Engineer Sterna pointed out that the funding cost participation changed, which is an acceptable practice and that all other cities have adopted the policy and approved the amendment.
Mayor Park asked what other cities were involved and explained that she wished to insure that Sunfish Lake is protected as a smaller city than the others involved. Clerk Iago advised that she only copied the portion of the signature page with Sunfish Lake and she would check on the other communities involved.
Councilmember Hovey moved approval of the 2nd Amendment to the Joint Powers Agreement Establishing a Watershed Management Organization for the Lower Mississippi River Watershed, seconded by Councilmember DeCourcy, and carried. (5-0)
Council thanked the Engineer for his report.
c. CITY FORESTER: Forester Nayes stated no burning permits were issued since his last report and that there was no firewood harvesting activity noted at 6 Acorn Drive. He advised he met with a Boy Scout at Harmon Park regarding a possible reforestation service project.
The Forester stated that progress is being made on development of woodland management guidelines and locating educational materials related to this topic. He further stated that he attended Shade Tree Short Course to keep current with latest tree care information and put up street weight limit signs on March 27.
Forester Nayes explained he would like to spend money on mailing a newsletter to promote Arbor Day that is separate from the quarterly newsletter.
After a brief discussion, Council concurred there should be funds available for this purpose.
Councilmember Hovey asked if the order forms for trees could be placed on the City website and the Forester responded yes.
Council thanked the Forester for his report.
d. PUBLIC SAFETY: Chief Shaver reviewed the public safety report dated March 27, 2013. He thanked the Forester for his assistance in monitoring the activities at 6 Acorn Drive. He advised that a locked mailbox on Sunfish Lane was pried open and encouraged residents to bring their mail to the post office rather than place it in their mailbox.
The Chief stated that the week of April 14 thru 20 is Severe Weather week and advised that the warning sirens would be activated on April 18 at 1:45 and 6:55 p.m. He suggested that families discuss what to do and where to meet when an emergency of this type occurs and he offered to provide information for placement on the City website.
Councilmember Hovey asked if the Chief could also forward information on mail theft or other issues for the website and the Chief responded yes.
Council thanked the Chief for his report.
8. NEW/OTHER BUSINESS:
a. Consider Appointment of City Treasurer: Mayor Park referred to the resume submitted by Ann Lanoue for the position of City Treasurer. She introduced Ms. Lanoue to Council and asked her to provide some information on her background relating to this position.
Ann Lanoue explained that she had retired from the position of Finance Director for the City of Inver Grove Heights and that she was interested in this position because it would be a manageable job for a retiree and would be interesting and somewhat different from working for a larger city. She stated she currently lives in Inver Grove Heights, is a member of St. Anne’s Church, is originally from New York state, and that she has two grown sons, one is a firefighter in Inver Grove Heights and one is a college baseball umpire.
Mayor Park thanked Ann for the information and advised that Council would discuss this matter and that she would contact her with the results of the discussion.
Ann thanked Council for their time and left the meeting.
Council asked Treasurer Blair when he wished to formally retire and Mr. Blair responded that he was anticipating retiring prior to the summer.
Mayor Park recommended that Ms. Lanoue be offered the Treasurer’s current salary compensation for the remainder of the year and that the amount could be negotiated during budget discussions if necessary. She also suggested that Council authorize the expenditure for payment both Ms. Lanoue and Mr. Blair for hours spent on transitional meetings.
Attorney Kuntz explained that he had drafted the same contract for Ms. Lanoue as currently signed by Treasurer Blair and had forwarded a copy to her for review.
Mayor Park asked if there would be any issues with PERA as previously experienced with the City Clerk. Attorney Kuntz responded no and pointed out that the Treasurer and City Clerk must be employees of the City; he noted that the City contracts with Ms. Iago only for the administrator portion of her position. He further noted that since Ms. Lanoue is retired, the City would not continue to make payments to PERA for this position.
The Park suggested that Council take action to appoint Ms. Lanoue effective upon formal resignation by Mr. Blair and authorize payment of up to 10 hours for both persons for the purpose of transitioning. She advised that she could contact Ms. Lanoue to advise her of Council action and to execute the contract.
Mayor Park asked if there were any further questions and there was no response.
Councilmember DeCourcy moved to appoint Ann Lanoue as City Treasurer effective upon formal resignation from Mr. Blair and to authorize payment to both persons not to exceed 10 hours for the purpose of transitioning the position during the month of April, seconded by Councilmember Bulach and carried. (5-0)
b. Consider Authorizing Preparation of Feasibility Report for 2014 Street Reconstruction Project: Mayor Park noted this item was considered earlier in the meeting.
d. Other Business: The Mayor advised that there would be improvements to South Robert Street and the I-494 ramps; she advised there is a meeting scheduled at the Inver Grove Heights Community Center to discuss the improvements and respond to questions on April 24, from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. She explained that affected residents would be notified but it may affect other residents in the City.
Clerk Iago advised she may not be attending the May Council meeting due to an upcoming surgery for hip replacement and Mayor Park stated she would be out-of-town for the May Council meeting.
The Mayor asked if there was any further business and there was no response.
9. ADJOURN: Councilmember Hovey moved for adjournment at 8:55 p.m., seconded by Councilmember Bulach and carried. (5-0)
___________________________ ___________________________
Molly Park., Mayor Catherine Iago, City Clerk
We are a small community proud of our heritage and committed to the preservation of our pristine, rural character. We cherish our privacy, yet know we are part of a thriving Dakota County and the greater Twin Cities metropolitan area. With these partnerships in mind, we strive to preserve that unique spirit which is Sunfish Lake, Minnesota.