SUNFISH LAKE CITY COUNCIL MEETING – MARCH 5, 2013
7:00 P.M. - ST. ANNE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
Attendants:
Mayor: Molly Park
Councilmembers: Mike Hovey, Cathy DeCourcy and Steven Bulach
City Attorney: Tim Kuntz
City Building Official: David Neameyer
City Planner: Michelle Barness
City Engineer: Don Sterna
City Forester: Jim Nayes
City Treasurer: Mike Blair
City Clerk: Cathy Iago
Police Chief Manila Shaver
and Members of the General Public
Councilmember JoAnne Wahlstrom was absent.
1. CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Park opened the meeting at 7:00 p.m. and requested a moment of silence for the passing of former Mayor Duncan Baird and General Manila Shaver, Police Chief Shaver’s father.
2. APPROVE AGENDA: Mayor Park asked if there were any additions or corrections to the agenda. She requested that an item be added for discussion under New/Other Business; Discussion of City Treasurer Position.
The Mayor asked if there were any further additions and there was no response.
Councilmember Hovey moved approval of the Agenda as amended, seconded by Councilmember Bulach and carried. (4-0)
3. CONSENT AGENDA: The Mayor asked if there were any questions or comments relating to any items on the Consent Agenda.
Councilmember DeCourcy requested a change to the February 5 Council minutes on page 6, third paragraph from the bottom of the page; she asked that the sentence read as follows; “Councilmember DeCourcy commented that in her opinion this type of operation would be considered a logging business.” and asked that the Clerk delete the remainder of the sentence.
The Mayor asked if there were any further questions or comments and there was no response.
Councilmember Hovey moved approval of the Consent Agenda and minutes as amended, seconded by Councilmember DeCourcy and carried. (4-0)
a. Regular Council meeting minutes of February 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.
Ibby Hammett, 2196 Charlton Road, expressed concern about the speeding traffic on Delaware Avenue. She requested that Sunfish Lake partner with the City of Mendota Heights and approach Dakota County to request a 4-way stop sign at Charlton Road and Delaware Avenue or to ask that guardrails be installed along Delaware Avenue in the area where a fatal accident occurred over the weekend.
Chief Shaver explained that the accident actually occurred on the Mendota Heights side of Delaware Avenue and that the vehicle ran off the road and proceeded down an embankment and hit several trees. He explained that there was only one occupant in the vehicle and that the incident is under investigation. He offered to contact persons at the County to discuss this matter.
Ms. Hammett commented that she is unsure if reducing the speed will stop vehicles from speeding and that the slippery conditions did not deter speeders; however, she pointed out that there are a lot of bike riders and walkers that frequently use Delaware Avenue and she is concerned for their safety.
The Mayor thanked Ibby Hammett for her comments. She asked if there were any further comments from the public and there was no response.
5. PUBLIC HEARINGS: None.
6. PLANNING COMMISSION/PLANNER’S REPORT: a. Consider Request for Shoreline Setback Variance, 345 Salem Church Road, Schaefer: Planner Barness explained the request for a variance from the required 200 ft. shoreline setback and building plans to allow construction of a building addition and hipped roof at 345 Salem Church Road. She displayed a diagram of the proposed addition that consists of enclosing an existing roofed walkway between the house and the garage. She stated the addition would be 56 sq. ft. and the proposed hipped roof would replace approximately 92 sq. ft. of an existing flat roof on the home; she showed the area in the middle of the existing roof that would be replaced.
The Planner advised that the proposed plan meets all general building regulations and lot standard setbacks, with the exception of the shoreline setback regulation. She explained that the home was constructed prior to the existing 200 ft. setback regulation and currently is setback 89 ft. from the lake. She noted that the project does not require excavation or grading and would not impact site vegetation, accessory buildings, parking, lighting or septic systems. She stated that there would be no increase in impervious surface and that the 3 ft. height increase for the hipped roof would have a minimal impact on the view to neighboring properties. She pointed out that the applicants plan to add large windows on the lake side of the home and stone columns at the entry to the home.
Councilmember DeCourcy asked if the stone columns face the lake or the road; the Planner responded that the columns do not face the lake side of the home.
Planner Barness advised that the City Engineer requested the applicants maintain a 2% positive drainage away from the addition and that they install landscaping along the east side of the home addition, along the slope, to help stabilize the slope in that area. She stated the Engineer had also requested installation of a silt fence around the rear side of the home to seal off the construction area and contain any surface runoff. She explained that the Planning Commission recommended the applicant could install a bio-roll material in this area as an option, since it may be difficult to install a silt fence while the ground is frozen.
Mayor Park asked if the silt fence would be installed at a later date when possible. The Planner responded no and explained that bio-roll material could be used as an alternative to the silt fence.
Councilmember Hovey asked if plumbing is proposed in the mud room addition to the home. The Planner stated she was unsure if plumbing would be installed. The Building Inspector explained that the applicants would have to apply for a plumbing permit if needed when they apply for the building permit.
The Planner stated there are no proposed changes to the septic system; however, the City Engineer recommended protection be placed around the septic system area to prevent damage or compaction. She advised that the proposed building materials meet design standards and would improve the appearance of the existing home.
Councilmember DeCourcy asked if the proposed landscaping on the east side of the home would provide screening from the adjacent neighboring property. The Planner responded yes.
Councilmember Bulach asked if there are footings underneath the breezeway area and expressed concern regarding attachment of the addition to stabilize it.
Keith Heaver, contractor for the project, explained that there are no footings below the walkway, only a sidewalk. He advised he would remove the sidewalk prior to enclosing the area and that there are footings for the garage so that the addition would be stabilized. The Building Inspector explained that he would address this issue when reviewing the building plans.
Planner Barness explained that in order to grant a variance the City must show practical difficulties exists on the property. She noted that the home was built in 1980 and met the setback requirements that were in place at that time. She displayed a diagram of the lot and advised that the lot would be deemed unbuildable if the current shoreline setback requirements were met.
Mayor Park asked why the average setback from adjacent properties was not used to calculate the setback on this property. The Planner explained that in this case the adjacent properties were setback further from the lake and therefore, the average would not apply.
The Mayor asked if there were any further questions.
Keith Heaver explained that there would be no excavation and no soil disturbed on the site in conjunction with the proposed addition and he questioned why the City Engineer recommended the installation of a silt fence.
Engineer Sterna explained that his recommendation was a precautionary measure because the construction occurs near a major lake within the City. He pointed out that the equipment on site could disturb the soil and that these preventative measures would protect the applicants in the event a complaint was filed with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) by a neighboring property owner.
Councilmember DeCourcy asked if the additional plantings were included as part of the conditions of approval and the Planner responded yes.
The Mayor asked if there were any further comments and there was no response.
Councilmember Bulach moved to adopt Resolution No. 13-04 titled RESOLUTION APPROVING A SHORELINE SETBACK VARIANCE AND BUILDING PLANS FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF AN ADDITION AND HIPPED ROOF ON THE HOME LOCATION AT 345 SALEM CHURCH ROAD, LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS LOT 1, BLOCK 1, HARRISON ESTATES, subject to conditions as listed and identifying the findings in support of the variance, seconded by Councilmember Hovey and carried. (4-0)
b. Consider Request for Major Site & Building Plan Review, 2250 Delaware Ave., 2250 Delaware Avenue, LLC: Planner Barness explained that an application for a major site and building plan review was submitted for the property at 2250 Delaware Avenue. She stated that the applicant proposes to remove the existing home and construct a new home and garage on the property. She stated the new home would be in approximately the same location as the existing home. She noted that the proposed home would meet all Shoreland District setback and lot area requirements, including the shoreline setback requirement.
The Planner advised that the existing home is set within the required minimum 200 ft. shoreline setback; however, there is a provision in the Zoning Code that allows a shoreline setback average based on the setbacks of adjoining properties.
She advised that the new home location meets the average shoreline setback allowance; therefore, no variance is required. She noted that the proposed home would be setback further from the lake than the existing home and that the size expansion would occur towards the west, away from the lake. She further advised that the driveway would be moved further from the lake and will maintain impervious surface on the site slightly below that which currently exists. She stated that the home meets the building height requirements and that it is only 1 ft. taller than the existing home; she explained how the height was calculated above the average grade on the property.
Planner Barness stated that the application appears to meet all R-1 building and design standards. She explained that the septic system proposed also meets zoning code standards. She advised the applicant proposes to use stone, brick, hardy plank siding and fiberglass shingles. She also advised that a retaining wall would be installed and showed its location.
The Planner explained that the applicant proposed to construct a 1350 sq. ft. garage; however, the City Code only allows 1250 sq. ft., therefore, the Planning Commission recommended that the portion of the garage to be designated as a shop area be incorporated as part of the principal structure in order to meet the square footage requirement.
Planner Barness explained that the Planning Commission requested additional screening along the driveway to help screen this area from the lake view. The Commission also requested that the applicant provide a revised site plan for review by the City Forester which includes improved tree preservation measures, such as robust fencing, to protect mature trees near the construction site and that the fencing establish a minimum 20 foot buffer around these trees.
The Planner stated that lighting must be deflected from adjacent properties and she showed the proposed light fixtures that would be placed along the garage and front entryway to the home. She explained that the lighting near the front entry would be placed under a covered walkway. She stated that the Planning Commission requested a lighting plan be provided that shows photometric evidence that the one foot candle measurement is met.
Planner Barness explained that the City Engineer recommended installation of heavy duty silt fencing along the perimeter of the building site which drains toward any wetland and/or lake, and also the area around the septic system. She advised that the Engineer recommended construction of a rocked entrance, approximately 50 ft. in length and 50 to 20 ft. wide where the contractor is leaving the paved surface to minimize sediment distribution on site and also to maintain a rocked area around the septic system. She further advised that the Engineer recommended that the grading plan be revised to reconcile how proposed contours will be graded around the northeast side of the building adjacent to the driveway and how the final contours will tie into the proposed retaining wall. She explained that the Engineer’s recommendations had been incorporated into the conditions of approval.
The Planner stated that there appears to be natural vegetation along the shoreline and the Commission recommended that the property owner continue to maintain this area as it currently exists; she noted that it is difficult to determine the natural vegetation area with the snow cover and that staff will check the area in the spring.
Councilmember DeCourcy questioned the Commission discussion relating to installation of a rain garden.
Planner Barness explained that the City Code does not technically require rain gardens be installed and therefore they did not support attaching this as a condition of approval.
Mayor Park recalled that installation of a rain garden was a condition of approval for an application by the previous property owners. The Planner agreed that is was a condition; however, she pointed out that it was required in a different area on the property.
The Mayor noted that there are three (3) lots in the area and asked if all the lots are owned by the applicant and if the two remaining lots could be sold. The Planner responded that they are all owned by the applicant and that he two remaining lots could be sold.
The Planner explained that the applicants are planning to remove only six (6) trees and are saving forty (40) trees on the site. She stated that the Forester walked the property and noted that some trees species were incorrectly identified on the property and should be corrected on the revised landscape plan.
Planner Barness advised that the City Engineer listed specific requirements for removal of existing septic drainfield and tanks to be in accordance with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) requirements.
Councilmember Bulach asked if the turn around driveway area in the front of the home was for entry and the second driveway was for the garage. The applicant responded yes.
Attorney Kuntz asked where the driveway intersects with Delaware Avenue. The Planner showed that the proposed driveway would connect with the existing entrance from Delaware Avenue. The applicant agreed that the access would remain the same from Delaware Avenue. The Engineer and Attorney noted that there are cross easements for access for the remaining two lots.
The Mayor asked if there were any further questions or comments.
Architect Bob Moser asked if the robust fencing requested could include the orange plastic fencing as he would prefer not to install chain link fencing. The Planner responded yes and noted the fencing would have to be placed to provide at least a 20 foot buffer.
Mayor Park commented that the applicant and architect had done an excellent job and designed a beautiful home that would be a welcome addition to the City. She noted that there are numerous requirements and conditions that must be adhered to during construction of the home and encouraged the applicant and architect to maintain contact with staff during the construction process.
Councilmember DeCourcy asked if the applicant was aware of the deer problems in the area and the applicant responded yes.
Councilmember Hovey questioned the requirements for draining the septic system and asked the Engineer whether or not it would be preferable to remove the existing septic system. Engineer Sterna stated that in his opinion it would be preferable to remove the system, which may be more costly, but noted that the bottom of the tank must be perforated to drain if the applicant chooses that approach.
Councilmember Hovey asked if the applicant plans to remove the tank or fill it in. The applicant responded that it would be more expensive to remove and stated the best judgment would be used when excavating the site.
The Mayor asked if there were any further comments and there was no response.
Councilmember Bulach moved to adopt Resolution No. 13-05 titled RESOLUTION APPROVING MAJOR SITE AND BUILDING PLANS FOR A NEW HOME AND ATTACHED GARAGE AT 2250 DELAWARE AVENUE, LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS LOT 1, BLOCK 1, ANGELL ACRES, subject to conditions as listed in the resolution, seconded by Councilmember DeCourcy and carried. (4-0)
c. Tree Removal Guidelines: Planner Barness stated that at the February meeting Council requested staff research ordinances relating to removal of a substantial amount of trees from property within the City. She explained that the request was in response to residents concerns regarding removal of trees on an undeveloped lot at 6 Acorn Drive. She reviewed the current City ordinance that regulates the removal of significant trees and explained the definition of significant trees. She noted that the two sections of the ordinance that currently list regulations for tree removal do not regulate removal of dead, dying or small trees less than 6 inches in diameter specifically on undeveloped land. She further advised that Council requested staff investigate the option of a tree harvesting permit for regulating removal of trees. She explained that staff drafted preliminary language and issues that might be addressed by a tree harvesting permit and that this information would be reviewed and discussed at the next Planning Commission meeting.
The Planner indicated that the permit or application could address issues relating to a contractor scheduling removal of a substantial amount of trees and outline hours of operation, parking, noise, etc. She asked that Council review the information and forward their comments or questions to staff.
Councilmember Hovey expressed concern that regulations may prohibit removal of invasive trees, such as buckthorn.
Councilmember DeCourcy commented that there were several wild plum trees misidentified and removed from Harmon Park near her home.
Planner Barness suggested that the City Forester could be required to identify trees prior to any proposed removal and the permit could emphasize a pre-inventory be conducted by the Forester.
Mayor Park commented that she wished to clarify that in her opinion it would be preferable to have guidelines prepared rather than ordinance regulations so that the City could manage such projects to deter a nuisance. She commented that residents should have a right to remove trees from their property, but that such removal should not negatively impact adjacent properties. Planner Barness agreed that it may be preferable to use the term “guidelines” for tree removal rather than ordinance regulations.
Councilmember Bulach asked if the operation on Acorn Drive had ceased.
Councilmember DeCourcy advised that the project was halted but the equipment remains on the property.
Mayor Park explained that she contacted the contractor and asked him to cease operations and he agreed. She also sent an email to Barb Telander and explained that the City would be discussing guidelines for tree removal; she received a call from Barb Telander today and she was amenable to delaying the project until guidelines were discussed.
Attorney Kuntz suggested that when the Commission discusses the guidelines it may be appropriate to include some incentive by the City such as providing the City Forester’s services to identify trees for removal prior to starting a large project.
The Mayor asked if there were further comments and there was no response.
Council thanked the Planner for her report.
7. STAFF REPORTS: a. Building Inspector: Inspector Neameyer reported that five (5) permits were issued and five (5) permits closed this month. He offered to respond to questions.
Council thanked the Building Inspector for his report.
b. City Engineer: Updated City Maps: Engineer Sterna distributed the updated City maps to Council and staff. He explained that some properties in the City do not have addresses and stated he would work with the Dakota County GIS staff to issue addresses to all properties within the City. He asked Council and staff to review the maps and notify him if any discrepancies are found.
Sunfish Lake Water Quality Investigation: The Engineer stated that the Met Council’s 2011 Water Quality report only published last year’s results for Sunfish Lake and Horseshoe Lake. He explained that he thinks Hornbeam Lake was left out due to the fact there were no volunteers for the CAMP program to monitor Hornbeam Lake.
Mayor Park offered to find a volunteer to participate in the CAMP program for Hornbeam Lake and asked what the cost would be to the City for monitoring the lakes. The Engineer explained that the costs are normally reimbursed by the Watershed organization.
Engineer Sterna advised that Sunfish Lake rebounded last year and rose one level in all three categories; he explained that Horseshoe Lake received a higher rating than Sunfish Lake. He indicated that it is difficult to ascertain the exact reason for the rise in the rating for Sunfish Lake; however, he commented that the fluctuations are more closely linked to weather conditions that impact water quality. He pointed out that Sunfish Lake was identified as impaired and the City may have to identify funds to correct problems if requirements are imposed when the study of the lake is completed.
Inver Grove Heights Storm Sewer Improvement Cost Participation Request: The Engineer explained that he had not received any information regarding the cost implications to Sunfish Lake for this project and noted that he would present the information to Council once the study information is available. He suggested discussion of this matter be postponed until the information is received.
Mayor Park advised that she had received an email from Jana Keiffer of the LMRWMO with the completed study and that she had asked for the City Engineer contact information to forward the report. She asked the City Clerk to send the email to the Engineer.
Council concurred to defer action on the matter to the regular Council meeting in April to allow the Engineer time to review the information.
Harmon Park Address Revision: The Engineer explained that he discussed this issue with the Dakota County Emergency Dispatch and they stated it takes time to activate the address in their system. He advised he will update Council.
Public Works Activates Undertaken in the Month of February: 2013 Street Seal Coat Improvements: Engineer Sterna stated the City received four (4) quotes to complete the street seal coating and crack sealing project. The quotes ranged from $37,000 to $83,000. He advised that the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) identified $35,000 to complete this project; however, the areas identified resulted in a slightly higher cost than originally estimated. He suggested that the west side of Angell Road be deferred until next year and recommended Council approve up to $40,000 for the project to be completed with all roads as listed. He noted that there are additional funds in the snowplowing budget due to less snow events this year.
Mayor Park asked if the City was required to take the lowest bid by law. The Engineer explained that the City is not required to take the lowest quote and pointed out that three of the four contractors who bid have worked in the City previously and would perform well. He commented that he would be comfortable with either of the two lowest bidders and recommended that the contract be awarded to Asphalt Surface Technologies Corp. as the lowest bidder.
Councilmember Bulach asked who oversees the project. The Engineer explained that his staff does spot inspections on the crack sealing portion of the project and would also monitor the seal coating project over the proposed two-day span.
Councilmember DeCourcy explained that she forwarded the Water Quality Report to former Councilmember Roger Conant and he expressed concern regarding a possible milfoil or other unidentified weed problem in Sunfish Lake. She asked how invasive weeds could be removed from the lake.
The Engineer explained that he was unsure how to remove milfoil but offered to review Mr. Conant’s concerns.
Councilmember DeCourcy asked if the Engineer knew the location of the temporary speed bump and if it could be installed on Angell Road. The Engineer stated the speed bump is being stored at Pine Bend Paving, however, he noted that it may need repair. He offered to check into repair costs.
Councilmember Hovey questioned the snowplowing along the west side of Charlton Road near the church parking lot; he noted that if there was an event at the church it may not be possible for cars to pass along the road. He asked if the use of a front end loader by the plowing company would be the right piece of equipment in that area.
Councilmember Bulach commented that he saw the contractor using a front end loader with a blade and also a side blade on the roadway.
The Engineer explained that he usually leaves it up to the company to determine which type of equipment to use for snowfall events.
Engineer Sterna stated he received a note from a resident on Grieve Glen Lane relating to impaired sight-lines and he contacted the plowing company to clean-up the sight-lines in this area.
Mayor Park asked if there were any further comments regarding the crack sealing and seal coating project and there was no response.
Councilmember Hovey moved to award the contract for the 2013 Seal Coating and Crack Sealing project to Asphalt Surface Technologies Corporation and authorize the expenditure not to exceed $40,000 to complete the project as identified by the City Engineer, seconded by Councilmember DeCourcy and carried. (4-0)
Anticipated Engineer/Public Works Activities’ for the Month of February: SWPPP Yearly Public Hearing: The Engineer explained that the annual Public Hearing to discuss the City’s Storm Water Pollution Prevention (SWPPP) is normally held in April. He stated that the hearing is required as part of the renewal process for the NPDES permit. He explained that after comments are received from the public, staff prepares responses to the comments and provides information relating to renewal of the NPDES permit for submission. He stated that Jessie Carlson will conduct the hearing.
2013 Street Sign Quotes: Engineer Sterna stated he was unable to finalize the quotes for the $5,000 street sign upgrade project and would provide this information to Council at the April meeting. He advised that he had repaired a stop sign on Zehnder Road in response to a resident’s call.
City Street Sweeping Quotes: The Engineer stated he would be soliciting quotes for the street sweeping project to present at the April Council meeting.
2014 Street Reconstruction Project: The Engineer reviewed the discussion at last month’s Council meeting relating to the roadways that were identified for reconstruction work in the CIP. He explained that Council authorized the preparation of a brief proposal that identifies the engineering costs for the feasibility report, plan preparation and construction costs. He stated that the project would include reconstruction of a portion of Windy Hill Road and Upper 55th Street along with milling and overlaying Windy Hill Court, Windy Hill Road, Upper 55th Street and the western section of Angell Road in 2014. He advised that if the project is to move forward, the next step would be that Council orders preparation of a Feasibility Report. He explained the report would identify options available to rehabilitate these roadways and the associated costs and available financing options to fund the project. He also advised that a public meeting would be conducted to discuss the findings, costs, and potential assessments to the abutting property owners.
The Engineer stated he would prepare a brief proposal that would identify the engineering costs for the feasibility report, plan preparation and construction cost for Council action at their regular meeting in April. He advised that Council could discuss whether or not to proceed with ordering the feasibility study or defer the matter for another year.
Council thanked the Engineer for his report.
b. CITY FORESTER: Forester Nayes reported that he did not issue any burning permits this month; however, he explained that this would be a good time to conduct burning due to all the snowfall and moisture. He also report that he reviewed the property at 6 Acorn Drive twice a week and found no activity at that location. He advised he attended the Emerald Ash Borer Symposium on February 12 and provided information as part of his monthly report.
The Forester explained he met with a Boy Scout regarding a possible reforestation service project along the side of Angell Road in Harmon Park. He suggested that the project could include planting of plum trees to replace the ones removed in error from Harmon Park.
Forester Nayes advised that he removed several buckthorn trees that were cut by someone and fell onto Salem Church Road. He further advised that he met with Valerie Price of the Minnesota Tree Care Advisors to discuss assistance they may provide for developing a tree inventory for the City; he noted that volunteers could be trained to assist with this project.
The Forester advised that he recommends posting articles relating to Firewise information on the City website and also to include this information in the City newsletter. Councilmember Hovey agreed to post the information on the website.
Councilmember DeCourcy asked if the “sentenced to serve” group could plant the trees in Harmon Park. The Forester indicated that he would prefer to use that group for removal of trees rather than planting; he noted that planting requires maintenance of the trees and that is better suited to volunteers who are residents.
Council thanked the Forester for his report.
PUBLIC SAFETY: Chief Shaver reviewed his report dated March 1, 2013 and explained the background information related to the incidents.
Mayor Park asked if the Chief could contact Dakota County regarding the concerns expressed by Ibby Hammett and the Chief responded yes.
Council thanked the Chief for his report.
8. NEW/OTHER BUSINESS: a. Consider Appointment of the Sunfish Lake Representative to the Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport MAC Noise Oversight Committee (NOC) At-Large Community Group: Mayor Park explained that Gretchen Keenan submitted her resignation as the City representative on this committee. She stated that she contacted resident Michael McDonald to ask if he would serve as the City representative and he agreed. She asked that Council consider ratifying her appointment of Michael McDonald.
Councilmember Bulach moved to ratify the recommendation of the Mayor and appointment of Michael McDonald to serve as the Sunfish Lake Representative to the Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport MAC Noise Oversight Committee (NOC) At-Large Community Group, seconded by Councilmember Hovey and carried. (4-0))
b. Consider Feasibility Report for 2013 Seal Coating and Sign Replacement Projects: Engineer Sterna explained this item was completed under the Engineer’s report.
c. Consider Approval of 2nd Amendment to the Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) Establishing a Watershed Management Organization for the Lower Mississippi River Watershed: The Mayor explained that the City had approved the 1st amendment to the JPA in November, 2011. She noted that apparently a request was sent to the former Mayor last November, however; it was not brought forward for Council action at that time. She advised that the City Engineer would be reviewing the document and asked that this matter be tabled until the April meeting.
Councilmember Bulach moved to table action on the 2nd Amendment to the Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) Establishing a Watershed Management Organization for the Lower Mississippi River Watershed to allow the City Engineer time to review the document, seconded by Councilmember Hovey and carried. (4-0)
d. New/Other Business: Councilmember DeCourcy commented that she would prefer to see more informative articles in the Sunfish Lake Quarterly rather than recipes as printed in the last edition of the newsletter. She also suggested that the newsletter be placed on the City website.
Mayor Park agreed that the newsletter should be placed on the website for informational purposes. She commented that she wished to have a section of the newsletter dedicated to the youth in the City and that she would ask the youth reporter to focus on interviews with other children rather than provide recipes. She explained that she wished to use the newsletter as a means to educate the children to become better citizens and to participate in community business. She stated she appreciates the comments from Councilmember DeCourcy and welcomes comments from residents.
Discuss City Treasurer Position Recruitment: The Mayor explained that in the past the City has not advertised to fill the vacant positions within the City, but rather have had recommendations from Council or staff to recruit employees or consultants. She explained the City Clerk recommended a person to serve in the capacity of City Treasurer who was well qualified for the position. She asked if anyone else had any recommendations and, if so, they should contact her with the information. She explained that Council could then review the applicants at the April meeting and then make an appointment to the position.
Councilmember Hovey asked when the current Treasurer wished to leave employment. Mr. Blair stated he wished to complete the transition in May or June, but he would be available to respond to questions that arose after June.
The Mayor further explained that she had received an inquiry from Terry Bradshaw to conduct a short interview that highlighted the City of Sunfish Lake; however, she declined the interview due to the cost factor.
The Mayor asked if there was any further business and there was no response.
9. ADJOURN: Councilmember Hovey moved for adjournment at 8:50 p.m., seconded by Councilmember Bulach and carried. (4-0)
___________________________ ___________________________
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.