SUNFISH LAKE CITY COUNCIL MEETING – JUNE 4, 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: Don Sterna
City Treasurer: Ann Lanoue
Former 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 explained that she would be making a presentation honoring former City Treasurer Mike Blair.
The Mayor read the Proclamation Honoring former Treasurer Blair and Declaring June 5, 2013 as “Michael Blair Day” in the City of Sunfish Lake. On behalf of the Council, staff and residents, the Mayor thanked Mr. Blair for his dedication and years of service to the City and extended congratulations on his retirement.
Mr. Blair stated that he enjoyed working for the City for the past 12 years and that he will miss working for the City and with Council and staff.
2. APPROVE AGENDA: Mayor Park asked if there were any additions or corrections to the agenda.
Councilmember Bulach stated he wished to add an item under New Business relating to a proposed new ice arena.
Mayor Park stated she also has an item for discussion under New Business relating to 2078 Charlton.
The Mayor asked if there were any further additions and there was no response.
Councilmember DeCourcy moved approval of the Agenda as amended, seconded by Councilmember Hovey 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 Hovey asked if Council could read the memorandum prepared by the City Attorney regarding the property at 2078 Charlton Road as shown in the List of Bills.
Attorney Kuntz responded yes and explained it is public information. He stated that some neighbors had inquired about the status of this property. He explained that the police department was asked to contact the owner to ask their plans for the property; he advised that no contact was made with the owner. He suggested the matter be further discussed under New Business.
Clerk Iago advised that the number of the resolution page 3 of the May minutes would be No. 13-06, relating to approval of the Major Site & Building Plan at 393 Salem Church Road.
Mayor Park asked if there were any further comments and there was no response.
Councilmember Wahlstrom moved approval of the Consent Agenda with corrections to the minutes as noted by Clerk Iago, seconded by Councilmember Bulach and carried. (5-0)
a. Regular Council meeting minutes of May 7, 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. PRESENTATION: Report on Robert Street Construction Project from MnDOT Planner Jon Solberg: Mayor Park introduced Mr. Solberg who was present to provide information regarding the proposed contraction project schedule for Highway 3 between Ann Marie Trail and Mendota Road.
Mr. Solberg distributed informational materials that provided an overview of the project which includes the following:
- Resurface and repair of the road by pavement rehabilitation and mill and overlay
- Improve traffic signals
- Updated pedestrian crossing
- Drainage Improvements by culvert repairs
- Guard Rail and Mailbox replacements
- Ramp Replacement at Highway 110 and Ramp Repair at Highway 55
Mr. Solberg advised that the concrete pavement repair would take more time because the concrete must cure, but the ramp repair would be overnight work and would not take as much time. He stated the anticipated start of the project is scheduled for July 22; however, the bid was recently awarded so the actual start date could change. He advised that the entire project would take approximately 50 days to complete. He offered to respond to questions.
Mayor Park asked if signs would be replaced and advised that neighbors had inquired about the speed limit signs along the north end of the project; she stated the signs are listed at 50 mph, then drops to 45 mph, and then back to 50 mph.
Mr. Solberg responded there are no plans to replace the signs; he suggested that the neighbors contact him with their concerns regarding the speed limits and he would ask the MnDOT Engineer review the matter.
The Mayor asked if there were any questions from the audience.
Lance Little, 5775 So. Robert Trail, asked if the last mill and overlay was done in 1988. Mr. Solberg indicated that could be correct since work on Highway 3 has not been a priority.
Ginny Beckett, 5815 So. Robert Trail, asked if the project would begin on the north or south end of Highway 3. Mr. Solberg stated that has not yet been determined. He explained that the contractor may switch construction on each side of the street to keep traffic flowing, and that the contractor will determine how the work proceeds. He further advised that weather could also affect the project.
Lance Little pointed out that there are issues with high speeds for traffic heading south on Highway 3 and cresting at Woodridge Lane; he commented that it is unsafe getting his mail. He also noted that it is really treacherous with residents stopping to make left turns onto High Road with high speed traffic and that he has seen several near collisions.
Mr. Solberg advised that he would have the MnDOT Engineer review the traffic concerns; however, he commented that the speed postings appear to be within the limits for the road.
Ginny Beckett suggested that the engineer review the alignment of the High Road entrance and the shared driveway for her property and the Little’s property; she commented that it is a dangerous situation and in her opinion reducing the speed may help.
Mr. Solberg stated he would bring these matters to the engineer for review, but he noted that these items would not be included in this project since the bid was already awarded.
Mayor Park asked if there were any comments and there was no response. She thanked Mr. Solberg for his presentation.
6. PLANNING COMMISSION/PLANNER’S REPORT: a. Proposed Solid Fence Ordinance Amendment: Planner Barness referred Council to her report dated May 29, 2013. She stated that the Commission held a public hearing at their April meeting to consider a solid fence ordinance amendment permitting solid fences up to three (3) feet in heights within the buildable area of the lot, not to exceed 200 total linear feet on a property. She advised that the Commission did not make any recommendation regarding the ordinance amendment at the April meeting and tabled the matter to allow staff to research the length limitation on the fencing. She explained that she presented her research findings at the May meeting to the Commission and advised that the ordinance previously limited the length of the fence to 2500 sq. ft. She indicated that the 200 linear foot requirement appears to be a direct conversion of the square footage length; however, she advised that she found no information relating to why the length limit was included in the ordinance. She further noted that surrounding communities do not limit fencing length, only their height.
The Planner stated that the Commission determined a combination of height, location and length standards are necessary if solid fences are to be permitted based on demonstrated history of the City applying such limitations in the past. The Commission recommended keeping the 200 linear foot length limitation so as to mitigate any negative impacts from these structures in the community.
Planner Barness further advised that there are two ordinance options presented for consideration this evening; one option provides language for seeking a variance and the other does not. She explained that the variance option was initially removed from the ordinance amendment because it was the opinion of staff that it would be difficult to show practical difficulties to support the variance request. She read the proposed amendment options as shown in her report.
The Planner advised that the Commission recommended adoption of Option No. 1 that excludes the variance language. She advised that only one Commissioner asked for the variance language to be included and that is why she provided both options for Council review. She further stated that the residents still have the option to seek a variance with either amendment.
Councilmember Hovey asked if the ordinance prohibits more than one fence on a property. The Planner responded that the language implies that the 200 linear foot requirement applies to the entire property, so that one fence or a combination of fences can’t exceed the specified length on a property.
Mayor Park commented that she preferred the language in option 1 that does not include the variance and she noted that the option to seek a variance is still viable in the City Code.
Councilmember Bulach asked if this applies only to free standing fences and if there was a request submitted for a fence.
The Planner advised that this amendment relates only to free standing fences and allows decorative low impact fences used mainly for landscaping purposes. She explained the discussion for this amendment was a result of a previous request for a taller solid fence around a pool, but that applicant adapted the design of their fence to meet City standards.
Councilmember DeCourcy moved to adopt Ordinance No. 2013-01 titled AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 1218.01C (SPECIFIC FENCE STANDARDS) OF ARTICLE XII (ZONING REGULATIONS) OF THE SUNFISH LAKE CITY CODE, RELATING TO THE USE OF SOLID FENCES IN THE CITY OF SUNFISH LAKE as stated in Option No. 1 excluding the language for a variance, seconded by Councilmember Wahlstrom.
In discussion, Councilmember Hovey asked if the length limitation was due to the large lot sizes of properties within the City and questioned the justification for the limitation.
The Planner advised that she was unable to find a basis for the limitation while researching the ordinance and that is what prompted discussion by the Commission. She explained that only three members of the Commission were present at the meeting and that two of the members favored keeping the length limitation.
Councilmember Hovey asked why the Commissioners favored retaining the length limitation. The Planner commented that their concerns related to the large lot sizes in the City. She pointed out that the Commission discussed the fact that split rail fences are not limited in length and they are commonly used within the City to define properties; therefore, solid fences should be limited.
Councilmember Wahlstrom commented that solid fences are not compatible with the nature of the community to maintain the rural atmosphere and be more open.
Mayor Park noted that plantings could be used versus fencing to add privacy to properties. She asked if there were further comments and hearing none called for a vote on the motion.
Motion carried. (5-0)
b. Planner’s Report: Planner Barness advised that prior to the May meeting, the Commission conducted a site visit to 6 Acorn Drive to better understand the tree removal activity on the property; the Mayor, City Forester and several neighbors were also in attendance. The Commission then discussed whether a tree removal application was necessary to further guide how this occurs in the future. The Commissioner generally agreed that a voluntary tree removal application would not necessarily be enforceable and that an ordinance amendment to establish standards for tree removal may negatively impact property owners who wish to remove trees from their properties. She advised that the Commission instead recommended that the City continue to educate the community regarding responsible tree removal and woodland management and asked that the City Forester finalize a list of tree removal guidelines to be placed on the City website and in the newsletter. They further recommended that a section of the City website be designed for providing important landscaping, woodland management, tree removal and fire prevention information to the public.
Mayor Park pointed out that the educational materials provided to residents should include information relating to hiring a contractor, liability and safety issues, and monitoring the project. She suggested that the Forester may be able to address the liability issues. Forester Nayes indicated that the City Attorney may be better suited to address liability issues.
The Mayor explained that the last issue of the Sunfish Lake Quarterly contained information from the Forester on the tree removal guidelines.
Planner Barness stated that the Commission questioned if this discussion was mainly due to the dynamics of the Acorn Drive neighborhood and determined that most residents have been responsibly conducting tree removal from their properties for years. Therefore, based on the observations made during the site visit to 6 Acorn Drive, the Commission agreed that the City should not take any further action regarding that property.
Councilmember Bulach pointed out that Dr. Chesney mentioned damage to the turn-around area on Acorn Drive and asked if any soil erosion was noticed due to the tree removal. He commented that landowners should be held responsible for any damages as a result of tree removal that affects neighboring properties.
Dr. Chesney explained that in the past he maintained the center island that is owned by the City; however, he advised the Mayor that he would not longer maintain this area. He indicated that there is severe damage to the area due to the heavy equipment that was used in the tree removal process. He stated his biggest concern is the fire hazard due to a large brush pile on the neighboring property only 50 ft. from his lot line. He agreed that he property owner needs to take responsibility to remove the brush in a timely manner. He commented that he enjoyed a rural atmosphere in this neighborhood for 30 years and now he sees a mess on the neighboring property.
Mayor Park pointed out that the Planner’s report states a representative of the property owner agreed to speak to the contractor regarding removal of the debris from the property.
The Planner advised that the Forester was also concerned about the brush pile, but she noted that she is unsure if the City Code addresses its removal.
The Forester suggested that it may be required under the Nuisance section of the ordinance. The Planner suggested that it may be covered under Fire Protection.
Dr. Chesney suggested that the Fire Marshall be contacted.
The Planner offered to contact the Telanders regarding the concerns and she would suggest they contact the contractor to resolve the issues.
Mayor Park asked if the Attorney had any further recommendations. Attorney Kuntz agreed that the Planner should contact the Telanders, the property owner and the Fire Marshall to advise them of the concerns raised in discussion.
Councilmember Bulach asked who would be responsible for the damage to the cul-de-sac.
After a brief discussion, The Planner stated she would review the ordinance as it relates to damage to City right-of-way and then contact the City Attorney to determine how to proceed.
Councilmember Hovey asked if the repairs could be done by the City and billed to the owner.
Attorney Kuntz advised that the contractor would be responsible for any damage incurred on the City’s property; he indicated that the City could send a letter requesting the damage be repaired within a certain time-frame or the City would do the repairs and bill the costs to the contractor.
The City Engineer stated he would review the matter with the Planner. .
The Planner stated that an application for a minor subdivision was submitted for property at 2158 Charlton Road that will be considered at the July meeting by Council; this does not require review by the Planning Commission. She advised that it appears both lots will meet City standards and the request is due to a garage expansion on an adjacent lot.
Councilmember Hovey asked if easements would be acquired and the Planner responded yes.
The Planner advised that she received an inquiry regarding the installation of a septic system at 7 Roanoke Road. She explained that in selling the property, the previous owners agreed to have a new septic system installed and they have been working the Inspector Wasmund to analyze site conditions and to determine abandonment and installation of a new system. She stated that the new system needs to be placed near the east property line adjacent to 8 Roanoke Road, which is also owned by the seller and that an easement would be granted for this purpose. She explained that the approval may be granted by the Inspector; however the project is on hold at this time due to soil issues.
Planner Barness stated that she also received an inquiry regarding purchasing the vacant lot at 8 Roanoke Road and provided information relating to new home construction on the site; this application is anticipated in a month or two.
The Planner advised that there were no applications submitted and therefore, the June meeting was cancelled.
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 eight (8) permits and closed five (5) permits in May.
Council thanked the Inspector for his report.
b. City Engineer: 2014 Street Reconstruction Project: Engineer Sterna distributed a copy of the Draft Feasibility Report and noted that the report does not include a recommendation for assessments. He advised he would address this report later on the agenda.
Inver Grove Heights Storm Sewer Improvement Cost Participation Update: The Engineer explained there has been no further process on this matter and that he is unsure if the project would proceed this year. He advised that he would request $3,500 be placed in the 2014 City budget for this project.
Delaware Avenue Safety Concern from March Council Meeting: The Engineer stated he received no update on this matter and anticipates the count will provide findings sometime this month.
Spring Load Limit Posting: Engineer Sterna advised that the load limits were lifted on May 18
Public Works Activities Undertaken in May: 2013 Street Sweeping: The Engineer stated the street sweeping was completed in May.
Charlton Road Grading and Dust Control: The Engineer advised that Charlton Road was re-graded the first week in May and dust control agent was applied in mid-May. He also requested a light re-grading be done in conjunction with proposed pavement repair.
Councilmember Hovey explained that the bituminous surface is breaking up at Charlton and Highway 110 and is in need of repair. The Engineer stated he would review the pavement in that area.
Anticipated Engineering Activities for the Month of June:
Revise the Draft 2014-2018 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP): Engineer Stern stated that he would revise the draft document after discussion by Council later in the meeting. He suggested that Council provide any comments at this meeting, that he would review and redistribute the amended document at the July meeting and that he would request approval at the August Council meeting in conjunction with the budget adoption.
2013 Street Pavement Repair: The Engineer advised repairs to damaged pavement areas and additional shouldering material near identified intersections are scheduled for completion the week of June 3.
2013 Street Sign Replacements: Engineer Sterna stated that half of the signs are in place and the remaining signs would be installed this week.
2013 City Seal Coat Project: The Engineer advised the contracts have been signed that the work is scheduled to begin mid-June; he anticipates three weeks to complete the project.
Councilmember DeCourcy asked if the temporary speed hump was located for use on Angell Road. The Engineer advised that the speed hump is stored at Pine Bend Paving and is not in good condition; he indicated that he is unsure if it can be repaired. He offered to review the matter and provide information at the July meeting.
Councilmember Hovey asked if the City pays for storage of the speed hump and the Engineer responded no.
Councilmember Bulach advised that he leaves for work at 5:30 a.m. and he saw Engineer Sterna putting up the stakes for the new City signage; he commended the Engineer for his dedication to the City.
Council thanked the Engineer for his report.
c. CITY FORESTER: Forester Nayes stated he issued four (4) burning permits this month and that the DNR has eased the burning restrictions. He commented that the Morel mushroom season is in full swing at this time.
The Forester noted that there has been no harvesting activity at 6 Acorn Drive and advised that the Tree Removal he prepared were attached to his monthly report. He stated that the possible reforestation service project at Harmon Park by a Boy Scout is moving forward.
Forester Nayes stated the Arbor Day Green Fair on May 4 had lower attendance than usual which was most likely due to the weather; information was provided on the DNR FireWise program and insecticide injections to control tree infesting beetles such as emerald ash borer. He stated he would like to form a committee from each neighborhood in the City regarding the FireWise Program and asked that anyone interested in serving on the committee please contact him.
The Forester stated that he planted 44 Black Hills spruce trees left over from the Arbor Day tree sale on the east side of Salem Church Road, just west of the Windy Hill Road intersection. He further advised that the tree protector tubes were removed from the trees in Musser Park and that no antler rubbing had occurred on these trees in the two years the tubes were in use.
Forester Nayes explained he completed a stump analysis of trees removed at 6 Acorn Drive and the information was shared with those attending the site visit prior to the Planning Commission meeting and also at the meeting.
The Forester stated he assisted with removal of the street load limit signs on May 19.
Council thanked the Forester for his report.
d. PUBLIC SAFETY: Chief Shaver reviewed the public safety report dated May 29, 2013. He noted that he alarm calls were elevated this month and indicated that may be due to stormy weather triggering alarms. He advised that there was a burglary on Windy Hill Road from a rental property at that location. He reported that the West St. Paul Rotary Club conducted a trash clean-up along Delaware Avenue this month.
The Chief advised there were reports of a tan Ford Taurus parked on Acorn Drive and asked if anyone sees the vehicle to attempt to get a license plate number so they may determine if it should be in this area.
Council thanked the Chief for his report.
8. NEW/OTHER BUSINESS: a. Discussion and Comment on 2013-2018 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP): Engineer Sterna explained that the CIP he distributed is a guideline used by the City to determine street improvements over a five-year span and also a useful tool for Council when discussing the upcoming budget. He advised that the infrastructure within the City is aging and the CIP is used to manage its maintenance. He advised that the newer materials used to replace drainage culverts will have a 45 to 100 year life span, depending on what is used, and that the culverts would only require cleaning to maintain their longer life span.
The Engineer requested that Council review the document and provide any comments or suggested changes to him prior to the July meeting; he stated that comments could be phoned to him or emailed. He advised that he would present the final document for Council adoption at their August meeting in conjunction with the 2014 budget discussions.
Engineer Sterna explained that one project not identified in the document is Charlton Road. He pointed out that the City has discussed improvements to Charlton Road several times over the past few years and most likely will arise in the future. He commented that the north end of the road has the heaviest traffic use and it may be possible to propose improvements in that area where easements have been obtained and then proceed with the remainder of the road in the future. He further commented that the road does not experience as much traffic attempting to shortcut access to Highway 110 with the new signalization at the intersection of Delaware and Highway 110.
Mayor Park commented that the Police Chief had noted some drivers think it is a novelty to drive on a gravel road.
The Engineer explained the document is merely a guide for improvements and may be changed as Council deems necessary.
Mayor Park pointed out that the City has only utilized half of the snowplowing budget and asked if the extra funds could be reserved for road improvements projects.
Treasurer Lanoue explained that 58 percent of the snowplowing budget has been used so far and remaining funds could be used for road improvements; however, she suggested some funds be retained in this budget for snow events in November and December of this year. She commented that any remaining snowplowing funds could be designated at the end of this year for roadway improvements or maintenance.
Councilmember Hovey stated that he supports the Mayor’s idea for establishing a “reserve” road maintenance fund and wished to see this practice reinstated.
Engineer Sterna presented the 2014 Street Improvement Feasibility Report to Council and asked for their input. He explained that after review of the document, Council should forward any comments and questions to him prior to its final adoption next month. He explained that any changes to the improvements proposed in the feasibility report would also be reflected in the final CIP document submitted for Council approval later this summer.
The Engineer advised that the City has adopted an assessment policy for improvements; he commented that the City must show benefit to properties included in the project and appraisals may have to be obtained to support the improvements. He stated he would discuss this matter further with Council at the next meeting.
Mayor Park asked if there were any questions or comments and there was no response.
b. Review Draft 2014 Street Improvement Feasibility Report: Engineer Sterna reviewed the proposed 2014 Street Improvements that were identified in the CIP and include Windy Hill Road and Court, Angell Road and 55th Street West. He explained that the estimated cost of the project is $435,556, which is higher than the cost estimate identified in the CIP. He discussed the drainage improvements proposed on Windy Hills Road and court and Angell Road and advised that he did not include proposed assessments at this time based on the fact that the City must show benefit to affected properties and appraisals may have to be obtained.
The Engineer explained that the total project estimated costs include engineering and administrative fees. He reviewed the approximate estimated costs as follows: Angell Road $106,000; Windy Hill Road $132,000; Windy Hill Court $95,000; and 55th Street West $102,000.
Councilmember Hovey asked if easements were obtained for the Angell Road project that was proposed last year.
The Engineer advised that he was able to obtain some easements and those were filed with the County; he pointed out that the City may be able to complete the project within the City right-of-way and that he will review that option. He further explained that he will continue his attempt to obtain any easements that are required.
Engineer Sterna discussed the existing widths of the streets and recommended that a 24 ft. width be maintained in the area of Windy Hill Court; he noted that currently the width in the area varies from 22 to 24 ft.
Mayor Park asked if the Fire Chief would be contacted regarding access for emergency vehicles and the Engineer responded that he would review the staging options with the Fire Chief when the project is approved.
Mayor Park asked if the church on 55th Street would be assessed. The Engineer responded yes and explained that options for assessments would be discussed at a future meeting. He suggested that 55th Street remain paved, but indicated that the cul-de-sac width could be reduced. He further suggested that the width of the road to the church should remain at 24 ft., but could then be reduced to 22 ft. for the remainder of the road. He pointed out that Angell Road is currently 20 ft. wide and in fairly good condition; he indicated that patching would suffice along with the culvert replacement. He suggested that a larger turn-around be provided at the end of Angell Road to deter traffic from using private driveways for this purpose.
Councilmember DeCourcy asked if the large cottonwood trees would be removed and commented that they provide a natural barrier for the car dealerships across the highway. The Engineer stated there is no plan to remove them at this time; he indicated that some trees near the culverts may be removed to accommodate construction.
The Engineer advised that he would discuss assessment scenarios and other funding options at a future meeting. He asked that Council review the document and submit comments or questions to him by phone or email. He explained that he may request appraisals on some properties to show benefit and he reviewed the proposed project schedule as shown in the report.
Councilmember Hovey asked if both the CIP and Feasibility Report could be emailed to Council for review and the Engineer responded yes.
The Mayor asked if there were further questions or comments and there was no response.
c. Consider Resolution Approving 2013 Deer Management Plan & Resident Volunteer Program for City of Sunfish Lake: Attorney Kuntz explained this is the fifth year that the City has proposed a Deer Management Program and that the Metro Bow Hunters group had recommended the City consider adoption the plan earlier in the year to accommodate the fall hunting. He explained that last year the City allowed residents to hunt along with the Metro Bow Hunters as long as the residents met the same eligibility requirements imposed on the Metro Bow Hunters by the DNR. He advised that the proposed 2013 resolution is similar to the 2012 resolution, but now requires the residents to obtain the field training that was inadvertently overlooked last year. He stated the resolution appoints Officer Muellner and Councilmember Hovey as the liaisons to oversee the 2013 hunting event.
The Attorney reviewed his memorandum dated May 29, 2013 that outlines the proposed areas where hunting is allowed, weekends that each group may hunt, and dates that hunting is prohibited.
The Mayor explained that she was unsure of the date for the annual Halloween Hayride. After a brief discussion the Attorney suggested that another weekend could be substituted for the Metro Bow Hunters if there is a conflict with the hayride.
Attorney Kuntz recommended Council review and discuss the proposal and consider adoption of the resolution.
Councilmember DeCourcy commented that she preferred not to have the City become a suburban hunting playground and she would prefer to have local volunteers hunt rather than the Metro Bow Hunters group. She further stated that in her opinion the gender of the deer taken makes a difference and it is a mistake to hunt the bucks; she noted that none of the bucks taken last year were donated to the food shelf. She pointed out that a deer was shot last year and bled in her yard. She also stated that she does not agree with hunting on 2-acre parcels and she recalled that it used to be 10-acre parcels for hunting. She stated that in her opinion the parcels approved should be at least 5-acres or more.
Mayor Park asked how the hunting will be enforced and monitored and if residents could have friends hunt with them.
Councilmember Hovey explained that Officer Muellner has been diligent in enforcing and monitoring the program in the past and that he could inform residents that friends are not allowed to hunt.
The Mayor asked why the hunting period was extended. Councilmember Hovey explained it was extended due to the large number of deer that were counted during the aerial assessment; he advised that there are more problems with the herd with larger numbers and more property damage incurred.
Mayor Park commented that since the City is utilizing a more aggressive approach this year it may be possible to slow down the hunting in the future. Councilmember Hovey explained that may not be the case since 40 deer would have to be taken.
Then Mayor Park asked if the timeframe and acreage listed are the same as last year and if hunting must be done from deer stands only. She also asked if the committee is confident that Officer Muellner can monitor and enforce the program. Councilmember Hovey responded that all items mentioned by the Mayor are the same as last year and that he is confident Officer Muellner can effectively monitor and enforce the program. He agreed that the incident on Councilmember DeCourcy’s land last year was tragic, but advised that procedures have been included should this occur in the future.
Forester Nayes reported that very few residents participated in the hunting last year.
Chief Shaver explained that the program has expanded over the years because the deer population continues to grow. He explained that only 17 deer were removed last year. He pointed out that with more community support and with both the residents and the Metro Bow Hunters participation, the City may be able to scale back in a few years.
Councilmember DeCourcy asked if the allowed acreage could be increased to 5-acres versus 2-acres; she questioned why the allowed acreage was not 2.5- acres since that is the standard lot size in the City.
Councilmember Hovey explained that the acreage was decreased to allow more hunting area where deer congregate. Forester Nayes explained that the liaisons will review and approve the parcels to insure the safety for surrounding properties.
Councilmember DeCourcy asked if a neighbor may protest hunting on an adjacent property. Councilmember Hovey indicated that would be more of a private matter between neighbors and that he would suggest communication between neighbors prior to requesting approval for hunting.
Councilmember Bulach explained that his property is adjacent to Musser Park and he has concerns relating to the hunting in the park because his children play in the woods; however, he commented that he understands the need to cull the herd.
Mayor Park asked if the discussion could be continued to the next meeting. Councilmember Hovey explained that the Metro Bowhunters requested the matter be approved prior to July 1 so they could find volunteers, conduct training and compile the schedule in a timely manner.
The Mayor Park if there were any further questions and hearing none, called for a motion on this matter.
Councilmember DeCourcy stated she would not support the request due to allowing hunting on 2-acre parcels.
Attorney Kuntz advised that the weekend of October 25, 26 & 27 would be deleted and another date inserted after discussion with the Metro Bowhunters Association.
Councilmember Wahlstrom moved to adopt Resolution No. 13-07 titled, RESOLUTION APPROVING 2013 DEER POPULATION MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE CITY OF SUNFISH LAKE with the possible amendment to the hunting dates as discussed earlier to accommodate the Halloween Hayride, seconded by Councilmember Hovey and carried. (Ayes 3; Wahlstrom, Hovey, Park; Nays 2; Bulach, DeCourcy)
d. Other Business: Councilmember Bulach explained that he was approached by representatives of the West St. Paul Council, David Napier and Jenny Halverson, to discuss the possibility of a joint partnership with Dakota County cities to construct an ice arena to serve the needs of youth. He advised that the West St. Paul Ice Arena would be closing permanently since their council has determined it is not cost effective to repair the facility. He stated that the cities of Mendota Heights, Sunfish Lake, Eagan, and West St. Paul, along with School District #197 would be reviewing possible options to construct a new facility to meet the needs of the youth who wish to participate in hockey, figure skating and recreation ice skating. He further advised that Senator Jim Metzen recommended the Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission (MASC) offer its assistance to these communities to find a solution; he noted this group partnered with other cities to develop the Schwan Super Rink in the City of Blaine. He explained that the cities involved would participate in any future costs proportionally and that Sunfish Lake’s share should be minimal.
Councilmember Bulach advised that the group requested on member of each city’s council to serve on the board to review this matter and he offered to serve in this capacity. He stated that the City has younger families with children that participate in the skating programs and it is his opinion it would be beneficial to be involved in the planning process.
Mayor Park asked if Council action is necessary to make the appointment and the City Attorney responded yes.
Councilmember Hovey asked if the West St. Paul arena would be demolished. Councilmember Bulach responded yes.
Councilmember DeCourcy moved to appoint Councilmember Bulach to serve on the Joint Cities Committee researching the proposed construction of a new ice arena, seconded by Councilmember Wahlstrom and carried. (5-0)
Mayor Park questioned if the home on the Dobrantz property on Charlton Road remains uninhabitable and what options the City has to require removal of the home because it is unsafe. She asked if any inspections have been made at this location
Attorney Kuntz advised that no inspections have been done since the property was deemed uninhabitable and signs were posted. He explained that originally the City discussed contacting the property owners after the winter months to determine if the building at this location would be removed. He stated that staff has been unable to contact the owners.
The Attorney suggested that he would work with the Building Inspector to develop a report listing options for removal and what the City could do to either assist with removal of the structure or pursue more formal action.
Councilmember Wahlstrom suggested the Fire Department could conduct a controlled burn on the parcel. The Attorney
agreed that could be an option, but advised that the City must follow due process to eliminate the safety hazard.
The Council concurred to direct the City Attorney and Building Inspector to prepare a report outlining the City’s options for removal of the safety hazard on the Dobrantz property at 2078 Charlton Road for presentation at the next meeting.
The Mayor asked if there was any further business and there was no response.
Councilmember DeCourcy left the room and was not available for the adjournment vote.
9. ADJOURN: Councilmember Bulach moved for adjournment at 9:15 p.m., seconded by Councilmember Wahlstrom and carried. (4-0)
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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.