2020-03-17 Council PacketCITY OF MENDOTA
HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA
March 17, 2020 – 7:00 pm
Mendota Heights City Hall
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Pledge of Allegiance
4. Adopt Agenda
5. Presentations
a. Update on Fire Station Expansion/Remodel by Paul Oberhaus, CPMI
6. Consent Agenda
a. Approve March 4, 2020 City Council Minutes
b. Approve March 4, 2020 Council Closed Session Minutes
c. Approve March 4, 2020 Council Work Session Minutes
d. Approve Resolution 2020-19 Supporting Congressional Funding of Governmental
Programming Costs
e. Approve Resolution 2020-20 Accepting Project and Approving Final Payment for the
2018 Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation Project
f. Authorize Request for Proposals for Safety Consultant Services
g. Ratify 2020-2021 Labor Agreement with the Minnesota Teamsters Local #320
h. Approve Purchase Order for Natural Resource Management at Oheyawahe/Pilot Knob
i. Approve Resolution 2020-18 Sponsoring a Natural and Scenic Area Grant for 2085
Valencour Circle
j. Acknowledge Building Activity Report
k. Approve February 2020 Treasurer’s Report
l. Approve Claims List
m. Award a Contract for Street Sweeping
n. Authorize the Purchase of a Movable Training Wall System – Fire Station
o. Approve the February 11, 2020 Parks and Recreation Minutes
p. Acknowledge December, 2019 Par 3 Financial Report
q. Approve Amendment to Solar Garden Agreement with Northfield Solar, LLC
r. Approve Resolution 2020-22 Declaring Surplus Fire Station Equipment, and Authorizing
Sale or Disposal
7. Citizen Comment Period (for items not on the agenda)
*See guidelines below
8. Public Hearings - none
9. New and Unfinished Business
a. Resolution 2020-17 Approve Plans and Authorize Advertisement for Bids for
Marie Avenue Street Improvements
b. Ordinance No. 555 Amending Code Regarding False Alarm Penalties
c. Resolution 2020-21 Authorize the Purchase of Real Property Located at 2085
Valencour Circle
10. Community Announcements
11. Council Comments
12. Adjourn
Guidelines for Citizen Comment Period: “The Citizen Comments section of the agenda
provides an opportunity for the public to address the Council on items which are not on the
agenda. All are welcome to speak.
Comments should be directed to the Mayor. Comments will be limited to 5 minutes per
person and topic; presentations which are longer than five minutes will need to be
scheduled with the City Clerk to appear on a future City Council agenda. Comments should
not be repetitious.
Citizen comments may not be used to air personal attacks, to air personality grievances, to
make political endorsements, or for political campaign purposes. Council members will not
enter into a dialogue with citizens, nor will any decisions be made at that presentation.
Questions from the Council will be for clarification only. Citizen comments will not be used
as a time for problem solving or reacting to the comments made, but rather for hearing the
citizen for information only. If appropriate, the Mayor may assign staff for follow up to the
issues raised.”
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
DAKOTA COUNTY
STATE OF MINNESOTA
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
Held Wednesday, March 4, 2020
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the regular meeting of the City Council, City of Mendota Heights,
Minnesota was held at 7:00 p.m. at City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve, Mendota Heights, Minnesota.
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Garlock called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Councilors Paper, Miller, and Petschel were also
present. Councilor Duggan was absent.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Council, the audience, and staff recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
AGENDA ADOPTION
Mayor Garlock presented the agenda for adoption. Councilor Petschel made a request to add Item 9d.
Signage at Pilot Knob Historical Site. Councilor Petschel moved adoption of the agenda as amended.
Councilor Miller seconded the motion.
Ayes: 4
Nays: 0
CONSENT CALENDAR
Mayor Garlock presented the consent calendar and explained the procedure for discussion and approval.
Councilor Petschel moved approval of the consent calendar as presented.
a. Approval of February 18, 2020 City Council Minutes
b. Approval of February 19, 2020 Council Work Session Minutes
c. Acknowledge the January 14, 2020 Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes
d. Acknowledge the January 28, 2020 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes
e. Approve Purchase Order for Ash Tree Removal
f. Approve Community Service Officer Hire
g. Approve Police Officer Promotion to Sergeant
h. Accept Firefighter Retirement
i. Approve Purchase of Fire Station Fitness Equipment
j. Approval of Contract for July 4th Fireworks Display
k. Ratify 2020-2021 Labor Agreement with the Minnesota Public Employees Association
l. Acknowledge Fire Synopsis Report – January 2020
m. Approval of Claims List
page 3
Councilor Miller seconded the motion.
Ayes: 4
Nays: 0
PUBLIC COMMENTS
No one from the public wished to be heard.
PRESENTATIONS
A) ROGERS LAKE WATER QUALITY REPORT – SAINT THOMAS ACADEMY
Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek provided background information on the water quality testing
conducted by Saint Thomas Academy students at Rogers Lake each year, noting that St. Thomas Academy
instructor Tony Kinzley is present to provide the annual report.
Mr. Kinzley stated that this past year he had three classes for a total of about 60 students that conducted
the monitoring to put together the results in the report.
Nick Horst, student, reported on the health and quality of Rogers Lake. He stated that with testing and
work, water quality can be improved. He provided background on the different testing locations and tests
completed throughout the year. He provided a table displaying the results.
Teddy Lotter, student, presented data on the different tests completed including dissolved oxygen, fecal
coliform, biochemical oxygen demand, change in temperature, and pH.
Will Hoppy, student, presented data on the remaining tests completes including nitrate, total phosphates,
turbidity, total solids, and overall rating.
Joe Brennan, student, concluded the results of the study highlighting the historical overall average ratings
of the lake. He stated that since the program began, the water quality has trended in a positive direction.
He highlighted some of the positive outcomes from the testing this year, noting that the last four years of
data are the highest results received overall throughout the program. He reviewed some areas of
improvement for the future and some possible solutions that could assist with improvement of water
quality.
Councilor Miller referenced the readings related to the total phosphates and asked if the soil disruption on
the west end of the lake due to buckthorn removal could have impacted that number. Mr. Brennan
confirmed that could negatively affect the water quality.
Councilor Paper asked if the depth of the water has an impact on the temperature reading. Mr. Brennan
replied that the tests they complete are based on the water temperate around the shoreline and therefore
depth does not impact that result. He explained that areas that receive more sun could result in higher
readings than those that remain in shade.
page 4
Councilor Petschel thanked the students for collecting this data. She stated that the City distributes a
newsletter that often highlights best practices for preventing water pollution. She commended the students
on the report.
PUBLIC HEARING
No items scheduled.
NEW AND UNFINISHED BUSINESS
A) RESOLUTION 2020-15 APPROVING A LOT LINE ADJUSTMENT FOR 1875 AND 1885
HUNTER LANE (PLANNING CASE 2020-02)
Community Development Director Tim Benetti explained that the Council was being asked to adopt a
resolution approving a lot line adjustment between two properties located at 1875 and 1885 Hunter Lane,
owned respectively by the Cosgriff and Van families.
Councilor Petschel commented that this seems a logical proposal.
Councilor Petschel moved to approve RESOLUTION 2020-15 APPROVING A LOT LINE
ADJUSTMENT BETWEEN THE PROPERTIES LOCATED AT 1875 AND 1885 HUNTER LANE.
Councilor Miller seconded the motion.
Ayes: 4
Nays: 0
B) RESOLUTION 2020-16 APPROVING A VARIANCE FOR 554 JUNCTION LANE (PLANNING
CASE 2020-03)
Community Development Director Tim Benetti provided a brief background on this item. The Council
was being asked to consider adopting a resolution, which would approve a Variance of two-feet from the
ten-foot side-yard setback requirements, for a new garage addition for property located at 554 Junction
Lane.
Councilor Petschel stated that the hardship in this case is the pie shaped lot and the City has been consistent
in acknowledging the hardship in meeting setbacks. She commented that this is a wonderful neighborhood
and she likes seeing improvements made to the homes.
Councilor Miller moved to adopt RESOLUTION 2020-16 APPROVING A VARIANCE FOR
PROPERTY LOCATED AT 554 JUNCTION LANE.
Mayor Garlock seconded the motion.
Ayes: 4
Nays: 0
page 5
C) RESOLUTION 2020-14 APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT AUTHORIZING THE
AMENDMENT TO THE MENDOTA HEIGHTS TOWN CENTER PLANNED UNIT
DEVELOPMENT – THE VILLAGE AT MENDOTA HEIGHTS (PLANNING CASE 2020-01)
Community Development Director Tim Benetti provided a brief background on this item. The Council
was being asked to consider adopting a resolution, which would approve a conditional use permit (CUP)
authorizing an amendment to a previously approved planned unit development (PUD) and its
accompanying master development plan. This original PUD was created in 2002 as “The Mendota
Heights Town Center” and is now retitled or locally identified as The Village at Mendota Heights. The
properties are located at 725 Linden Street and 735 Maple Street.
Mayor Garlock stated that the City has been involved in this process for three years, with many concepts
and proposals reviewed. He commented that this proposal is the right fit for the site with the proposed
density and the addition of a new restaurant. He applauded staff for their hard work on this project.
Councilor Miller referenced the stormwater management summary and asked the overall percentage of
impervious surface for this site. Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek replied that there would be a total
2.67 acres of impervious on the site which would equate to about 58 percent impervious coverage.
Councilor Miller asked the Code requirements related to impervious surface coverage for a lot this size.
Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek replied that commercial and industrial parcels are allowed to have up
to 75 percent impervious surface coverage. He explained that the majority of the greenspace is found in
the outlots and not in the direct commercial development area.
Councilor Paper asked for additional clarification on the rate of runoff. Public Works Director Ryan
Ruzek explained how the rate of runoff is calculated. He explained that the MPCA has stormwater
requirements requiring one inch, while the watershed that the City belongs to is slightly more stringent
than the state requirements.
Councilor Paper referenced the park dedication fee and asked how the restaurant is calculated.
Community Development Director Tim Benetti replied that the $4,000 per unit is being charged for the
residential development and nothing for the restaurant.
Councilor Paper asked why the co-working space was eliminated. Director Tim Benetti commented that
after further review, the developer determined that would not be a fit in this development as it would be
difficult to provide security for residents. He explained that the restaurant would have a separate entrance.
Councilor Paper expressed concern for the nearby residents, as this is a change for the area. He asked what
the hours of operation would be for the restaurant. Director Tim Benetti noted that a similar concern was
raised by staff and the Planning Commission. He stated that a vegetative screening was discussed and the
developer was open to that suggestion.
Councilor Paper stated that most of the patio faces inside to the development, with the exception of the
end that gets close to the neighboring homes. He commented that his concern would be the noise for the
nearby residents.
page 6
Councilor Petschel asked if something could be done on the southwest end that faces Dodd Road, in terms
of noise control.
Mr. Paul Dzubnar, restaurant operator, stated that the edge of the patio is 200 feet from the closest home
with a busy state highway in between that also provides noise. He stated that the patio would be closed
at 10:00 p.m.
Councilor Paper stated that he hopes the business is successful but wants to do something proactive rather
than reactionary. He stated that he is unsure of the exact answer but wants to try to do the best he can for
the homes across the street. He commented that this project fits the needs and scale of the community.
Councilor Petschel suggested that a recommendation be made for the developer and restaurateur to
determine the best practical solution to the issues raised by Councilor Paper.
Mr. Dzubnar confirmed that they could review the plans to propose a solution to mitigate the noise.
City Attorney Andrew Pratt commented that there will also be a development agreement between the
developer and the City, and those details could be addressed in that document.
Councilor Paper asked for details on the snow removal and snow storage areas.
Mr. Judd Fenlon, Grand Real Estate Advisors, stated that there was a fairly extensive discussion regarding
snow storage and removal at the Planning Commission. He stated that he worked with their engineer to
identify five areas for snow storage with appropriate landscaping under that could support that use.
Councilor Paper asked if the corner identified for snow storage would impact visibility. Mr. Fenlon stated
that they would monitor how much snow is stored in that area and would haul snow from the site before
impacting the visibility for traffic.
Councilor Paper referenced the 16.25-foot setback requested and asked for information on that location.
Community Development Director Tim Benetti identified the location of that reduced setback.
Councilor Miller referenced the issue of park dedication and asked if that would be revisited in the future
for the restaurant. Community Development Director Tim Benetti replied that the ordinance of the City
states that park dedication is based on a per unit residential fee or 10 percent of the assessed value of an
unimproved commercial/industrial site. He explained that with this mixed-use project the City chose to
go with the per unit price for the residential portion of the project. He stated that staff felt that this is a
fair offer as to what is provided in this development plan.
Councilor Miller stated that he would agree with the residential per unit charge but believed that the
restaurant is a standalone project.
City Attorney Andrew Pratt stated that, in his experience, park dedication is only charged on residential
developments. He stated that the logic is that when new residents move into the community, that provides
more users to the parks.
page 7
Councilor Miller asked if the park dedication fee has not been charged to a non-residential development
in the past. City Attorney Andrew Pratt confirmed that to be true.
Councilor Petschel stated that she has appreciated working with this developer, as there has been a sincere
desire to work with the City to find a good fit for this area. She stated that she believes that the buffer
between this property and the condominiums was important and was pleased to see that maintained. She
was pleased to see that the developer continues to work with the HOA to determine if there is anything
that would be mutually beneficial in terms of ongoing maintenance. She noted that she also appreciated
the change to the entrance of the building. She stated that this project meets a need that the City continues
to hear in the community.
Councilor Paper asked if the City is still on track to close on this property at the end of March. He also
asked when the developer plans to break ground. Community Development Director Tim Benetti
provided an update on the timing, noting that the closing would be on track for March 31st, but that date
could be extended, if needed. He stated that the goal of the developer is to begin work as soon as this
process is complete, and their bid documents are completed.
Mayor Garlock moved to adopt RESOLUTION 2020-14 APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT AUTHORIZING AN AMENDMENT TO THE 2002 THE MENDOTA HEIGHTS TOWN
CENTER PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT, N/K/A/ THE VILLAGE AT MENDOTA HEIGHTS,
LOCATED AT 725 LINDEN STREET AND 735 MAPLE STREET.
Councilor Petschel seconded the motion.
Ayes: 4
Nays: 0
D) SIGNAGE AT PILOT KNOB HISTORICAL SITE
Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek provided background information on this item. He stated that the
Council is being asked to consider signage for the Pilot Know Historical Site.
Councilor Petschel commented that the permanent wooden sign would match the existing signs of other
City parks and would help visitors to identify the location. She stated that once the wooden sign is
installed, this sign would be moved to the parking area. She commented that the group is composed of
highly skilled individuals that share the same commitment to this precious and sacred piece of land.
Councilor Petschel moved to approve the donated sign from the Pilot Knob Preservation Society and
authorize Public Works to post the regular sign once available.
Councilor Miller seconded the motion.
Ayes: 4
Nays: 0
page 8
COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS
City Administrator Mark McNeill announced that the ice rinks are closed for the season and City staff is
looking forward to the Par 3 opening. Summer registration is open online. He extended thanks to those
who attended and worked on the fire sale at the Fire Station last Saturday.
COUNCIL COMMENTS
Mayor Garlock thanked the City Clerk and other staff for the great job on the primary election.
Councilor Paper expressed congratulations to newly appointed Sergeant Nick Gorgos. He also wished
good luck to the Saint Thomas Academy hockey team at the state tournament and thanked the cadets for
their presentation on Rogers Lake.
ADJOURN
Mayor Garlock moved to adjourn.
Councilor Petschel seconded the motion.
Ayes: 4
Nays: 0
Mayor Garlock adjourned the meeting at 8:16 p.m.
____________________________________
Neil Garlock
Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Lorri Smith
City Clerk
page 9
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
DAKOTA COUNTY
STATE OF MINNESOTA
Minutes of the Council Closed Session
Held Tuesday, March 4, 2020
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a workshop of the Mendota Heights City Council was held at City
Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve, Mendota Heights, Minnesota.
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Garlock called the meeting to order at 6:25 p.m. Council members Miller, Paper, and Petschel were
also present. Council member Duggan was present from a remote location via Facetime. Staff in
attendance included City Administrator Mark McNeill, Community Development Director Tim Benetti,
Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek, Finance Director Kristen Schabacker, and City Clerk Lorri Smith.
Also in attendance was Al Singer, representing Dakota County.
Mayor Garlock stated that as permitted by Minnesota Statutes, Section 13D.05, Subdivision 3(c)(3), the
purpose of the closed session is to discuss a potential offer for the purchase of real property at 2085
Valencour Circle.
Councilor Petschel moved to adjourn the Regular Session to a Closed Session of the Council.
Councilor Paper seconded the motion.
Ayes: 5
Nays: 0
At 6:43 p.m., Councilor Miller moved to return to the Regular Open Session of the City Council.
Councilor Petschel seconded the motion.
Ayes: 5
Nays: 0
City Administrator McNeill stated that no official action was taken by the Council in the closed session. The
Council will provide a summary of the closed session at the next regular meeting.
ADJOURN
Mayor Garlock adjourned the meeting at 6:43 pm.
____________________________________
Neil Garlock, Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Lorri Smith, City Clerk
page 10
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
DAKOTA COUNTY
STATE OF MINNESOTA
Minutes of the Council Work Session
Held Tuesday, March 4, 2020
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a workshop of the Mendota Heights City Council was held at City
Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve, Mendota Heights, Minnesota.
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Garlock called the meeting to order at 6:45 p.m. Council members Miller, Paper, and Petschel were
also present. Council member Duggan was absent. Staff in attendance included City Administrator Mark
McNeill, Police Captain Wayne Wegener, Community Development Director Tim Benetti, Public Works
Director Ryan Ruzek, Finance Director Kristen Schabacker, and City Clerk Lorri Smith.
DISCUSSION OF AMENDMENT TO CITY CODE SEC. 5-5-4 B.2 (FALSE ALARMS)
Police Captain Wayne Wegener explained the amendments to City Code Section 5-5-4. B (2) are being
proposed due to a couple of businesses having a substantial number of false alarm calls, and significant
charges being incurred. Factors that contributed to this include the businesses not keeping the key holder
information up to date with the Dakota County Communications Center, the false alarm reports were not
run regularly, invoices from the false alarm reports were not sent out on a regular basis, and the current
City Code does not place a cap on the amount billed per false alarm in a calendar year.
The Police Department has notified the businesses and requested that they update their key holder
information with Dakota County. The false alarm reports are now being run monthly and sent to the
Finance Department for billing on a regular basis.
It is proposed that the ordinance language include a cap on the amount billed per false alarm. After the fifth
false alarm, the subsequent false alarms will be charged out at $100 each, within the same calendar year.
Mr. Wegener noted that this ordinance will affect only false alarms and does not affect false fire alarms.
He noted that this should correct issues in the future.
Staff will place this ordinance proposal on the March 17, 2020 Council agenda for consideration.
ADJOURN
Mayor Garlock adjourned the meeting at 6:53 pm.
____________________________________
Neil Garlock, Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Lorri Smith, City Clerk
page 11
DATE: March 17, 2020
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Mark McNeill, City Administrator
SUBJECT: Resolution Supporting Congressional Funding of Governmental
Programming Costs
Comment:
Introduction:
The City Council is asked to adopt Resolution 2020-19 which asks Congress to take action to pass
legislation to protect local funding sources for local origination and governmental programming on cable
television.
Background:
Mendota Heights been approached by NDC4, which is asking all seven cities of the cities which it serves
takto support Congressional action to protect the funding of cable television.
In August, 2019, the Federal Communications Commission issued an order allowing cable
companies to begin subtracting their own computed “value” of non-cash technical requirements
from the cash franchise fee payments going to cities.
These non-cash items, which were negotiated as part of a franchise agreement between the City
and the cable company, include providing live signal transport from schools and city halls back
to the master control at NDC4 for live video events, such as City Council meetings, high school
sports, and town hall meetings. They also include free cable services for schools, libraries,
police and fire stations, as well as fiber institutional networks or “I-Nets” that provide critical
government data connections.
Because the cable companies are allowed to determine the “value” of these non-cash franchise
requirements, the deductions from cash franchise fee payments cause a severe threat to the
budgets of local community media stations, cities and schools.
Cities across the nation have appealed the order to Federal Court, and further have filed an
appeal to stay the Order during the litigation.
H.R. 5659, and a companion bill S.F. 3218 have been introduced to allow a continuation of the
existing arrangement. It defines “franchise fees” as “monetary payments.” If approved, this
Congressional action would undo the FCC’s recent order to supersede the Federal Cable Act and
change the 35-year practice of calculating franchise fee payments to cities.
page 12
Budget Impact:
Over the past five years, the City of Mendota Heights has received the following in cable
television franchise fees:
2019 - $43,345.25
2018 - $45,215.41
2017 - $43,254.44
2016 - $41,888.82
2015 - $40,312.72
The money is deposited into the city’s cable television fund, which is used to make technology
improvements for the City. Without this, the City will eventually have to levy for changes such
as those which are needed in the City’s phone system, the Council Chambers, the Police Squad
Room, and the large conference room.
Recommendation:
I recommend that the City Council adopt Resolution 2020-19. If approved, it would be sent to
the City’s congressional delegation.
Action Required:
If the Council concurs, it should, by motion, adopt:
Resolution 2020-19
A Resolution in Support of Protecting the Community Television Act.
Mark McNeill
City Administrator
page 13
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION 2020-19
RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF
THE PROTECTING COMMUNITY
TELEVISION ACT
WHEREAS, Mendota Heights is served by the Northern Dakota County Cable
Communications Commission (the "Commission"), which is a Joint Powers Commission
organized pursuant to Minn. Stat. §471.59, as amended; and,
WHEREAS, the Commission negotiates and manages the cable franchise
agreements of Mendota Heights and six other member cities, and oversees the operation
of Town Square Television, a local community public, education and government
("PEG") access facility on behalf of the seven member cities;
WHEREAS, NDC4 and Town Square Television provide coverage of local
community events and issues, non-profits and charities, local high school sports and
academic programs, business and chamber of commerce programs, government
meetings, candidate information and election coverage, local history, public health
information, and many other programs that broadcast stations typically will not cover,
and, in light of rapidly decreasing local print media, NDC4 and Town Square Television
may soon be the sole media source providing local coverage;
WHEREAS, NDC4 and Town Square Television are funded through franchise
fee and PEG fee revenues negotiated in the cable franchise agreements with local cable
providers;
WHEREAS, the member cities require, as part of the cable franchise agreements,
that cable companies meet demonstrated community needs by providing non-monetary
franchise requirements such as live signal transport from schools and city halls to master
control facilities and complimentary cable television services that benefit the member
cities, local schools, public safety buildings, as well as NDC4 and Town Square
Television;
WHEREAS, in 1984 Congress defined a franchise fee as a "tax, fee, or
assessment," and for the past 35 years, it has been solely a monetary fee;
WHEREAS, in 2019 the FCC departed from the clear language of the Cable Act
and passed an Order ruling that a franchise fee is both a monetary and non-monetary fee
and permitting cable companies to unilaterally assign a value to the non-monetary
franchise requirements and then subtract that amount from the franchise fees the cable
operator pays to the local community;
WHEREAS, the FCC Order results in substantial reductions in vital funding to
page 14
the member cities and NDC4 and Town Square Television;
WHEREAS, the Protecting Community Television Act (currently S. 3218 / H.R.
5659) has been introduced in Congress with the goal of maintaining the status quo by
reversing the FCC Order and allowing franchise fees to be calculated as they have been
for over 35 years as monetary only fees; and
WHEREAS, this legislation is supported by the National League of Cities, the
U.S. Conference of Mayors, the National Association of Counties, the Alliance for
Community Media, the League of Minnesota Cities, NATOA and MACTA.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of
Mendota Heights calls on Congress to pass legislation, such as the Protecting Community
Television Act, which would undo the FCC's action;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council urges all House members
and Senators from Minnesota to cosponsor the Protecting Community Television Act.
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Mendota Heights this 17th day of March, 2020.
CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
____________________________
Neil Garlock, Mayor
ATTEST:
___________________________
Lorri Smith, City Clerk
page 15
Request for City Council Action
MEETING DATE: March 17, 2020 TO: Mayor, City Council, and City Administrator FROM: Ryan Ruzek, Public Works Director SUBJECT: Final Payment and Acceptance of the 2018 Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation Project – Project #201803 COMMENT:
Introduction
The Council is asked to approve Resolution 2020-20, to accept work and approve the final payment
for project #201803.
Background
The City Council awarded the contract to Hydro-Klean LLC at their October 10, 2018, City
Council meeting for their low bid of $246,886.43.
The contract work for the 2018 sanitary sewer rehabilitation project has been completed, inspected,
and approved. The project is ready for final payment. This will start the one-year guarantee period.
All required paperwork needed before final payment has been submitted.
Discussion
The final payment for this contract is $11,781.99. The total cost for this project was $235,637.79,
which is $11,246.64 under the original contract amount.
Budget Impact
There are sufficient funds in the Sanitary Sewer Utility Fund to cover the final payment.
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the Mendota Heights City Council approve the attached Resolution No.
2020-20 “RESOLUTION ACCEPTING WORK AND APPROVING FINAL PAYMENT FOR
PROJECT #201803, 2018 SEWER REHABILITATION”
Action Required
If Council concurs with the staff recommendation, they should pass a motion adopting Resolution
No. 2020-20 “RESOLUTION ACCEPTING WORK AND APPROVING FINAL
PAYMENT FOR PROJECT #201803” SEWER REHABILITATION”, by simple majority
vote.
page 16
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION 2020-20
RESOLUTION ACCEPTING WORK AND APPROVING FINAL PAYMENT
FOR PROJECT #201803 2018 SEWER REHABILITATION
WHEREAS, pursuant to a written contract signed with the City of Mendota
Heights on October 10, 2018, with Hydro-Klean LLC of Des Moines, IA has
satisfactorily completed the improvements for the 2018 Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation
Project #201803, in accordance with such contract.
NOW THEREFORE IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED by the City Council of
the City of Mendota Heights that the work completed under said contract is hereby
accepted and approved; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Mayor and City Clerk are hereby
directed to issue a proper order for the final payment on such contract in the amount
of $11,781.99, taking the contractor’s receipt in full.
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Mendota Heights this 17th day of March
2020.
CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
___________________________
Neil Garlock, Mayor
ATTEST:
____________________________
Lorri Smith, City Clerk
page 17
DATE: March 17, 2020
TO: Mayor, City Council, and City Administrator
FROM: Cheryl Jacobson, Assistant City Administrator
SUBJECT: Request for Proposals—Safety Consultant Services
INTRODUCTION
The City Council is asked to approve the release of a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Safety
Consultant services.
BACKGROUND
Since 2010, the City has participated in a Regional Safety Group (RSG) with the cities of West St.
Paul and South St. Paul for the purposes of promoting workplace safety. The RSG was sponsored
by the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust and was a way to cost effectively support safety
trainings and the development of policies, procedures and programs in compliance with federal
OSHA and Minnesota Department of Labor standards.
Due to changing needs by a member city, the RSG has dissolved. However, the City is still
responsible for providing its employees with a safe and healthy work environment. To support
safety goals, the City is looking to engage a safety consultant to provide safety training and other
services in support of the City’s safety program.
The proposed Request for Proposal (RFP) is an invitation by the City for qualified consultants to
submit responses for the provision of Safety Consultant Services. The scope of services laid out in
the RFP includes the development of a comprehensive safety program including safety manual(s),
policies and procedures, safety training, safety inspections and general program support.
RECOMMENDATION
Authorize staff to release the Request for Proposal for Safety Consultant Services.
ACTION REQUIRED
If the Council concurs, it should, by motion, authorize the release of the Request for Proposals for
Safety Consultant Services.
page 18
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP)
Safety Consultant Services
Responses Due: April 10, 2020 at 4:30 PM (CST)
Issued By:
City of Mendota Heights
1101 Victoria Curve
Mendota Heights, MN 55118
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CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE City of Mendota Heights will receive proposals for:
CONSULTING SERVICES FOR SAFETY AND TRAINING
Proposals must be submitted electronically (via email) to Cheryl Jacobson, Assistant City
Administrator, at cherylj@mendota‐heights.com
Proposals are due by 4:30pm on Friday, April 10, 2020.
DATED THIS 18TH DAY OF MARCH 2020
Cheryl Jacobson
Assistant City Administrator
City of Mendota Heights
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GENERAL INFORMATION
The City of Mendota Heights is seeking qualified Safety Consultant services to renovate our
current Citywide and departmental safety programs, provide safety training and safety program
support.
The Safety Consultant shall perform and carry out the necessary services to complete the
requirements included in this request for proposal. The Safety Consultant will report to the
Assistant City Administrator, who will assist the consultant in interpretations of the scope of
services. The final scope of work will be negotiated with the selected Consultant.
Introduction
Qualified firms are invited to submit proposals for the provision of Safety Consultant Services
based on the information contained in this Request for Proposal.
General Conditions and Stipulations
The City reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals and to waive
formalities and select the responder that best meets the needs of the City. The City’s
objective is to select an agent who will provide the best possible service at the best
possible cost while meeting the Request for Proposal specifications. The City is not
obligated to award the contract based on cost alone.
The City intends to award a single individual, vendor or consulting firm the contract.
During the evaluation process, the City of Mendota Heights reserves the right, to
request additional information or clarification on information submitted.
Background
City Description
The City of Mendota Heights is a first ring suburb of the Minneapolis‐St. Paul Metropolitan
Area. The City has a population of just under 12,000. The City of Mendota Heights is a statutory
city with a Council/Administrator form of government. Mendota Heights is governed by a City
Council composed of a Mayor and four Council Members.
The City employs 46 full‐time and 9 part‐time employees. City departments include:
Administration, Public Works, Police and Fire. The City’s safety program applies to all
departments; however, Police and Fire utilize their own safety support systems for some
specific safety training needs. All departments are included in the City’s annual required
trainings, such as AWAIR and Right to Know.
SCOPE OF SERVICES
To respond to this RFP, responders shall include a detailed description of all tasks, including
those suggested in this Scope of Services and any proposed changes, additions, or
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recommendations. The detailed description of each task should include the subtasks,
deliverables, proposed meetings, schedule, and costs.
Program Description
The City’s Safety Program is intended to provide all employees with a safe and healthy work
environment, while minimizing workplace accidents affecting personnel and equipment.
The Safety Consultant will have direct responsibility to conduct an on‐site safety program as
described herein. The safety program shall include:
Program development including the preparation of City and Department Safety
Manual(s), policies and procedures and subsequent updates to maintain current and
relevant information.
Development of a city safety committee
Review of workplace incidents and accidents
Staff safety training
Safety inspections
Record keeping and reporting in coordination with the Human Resources Department
Consultant Tasks and Responsibilities
The Safety Consultant’s minimum scope of service for conducting the Safety Program is as
follows:
Assess current state of city and department safety program(s).
Assist in the creation and development of policies, procedures, manuals and programs
necessary for the establishment of a comprehensive safety program.
Develop training program recommendations, schedule and budget
Review existing Safety Data Sheet libraries. Assist city Staff in inventorying hazardous
substances and developing and maintaining Safety Data Sheet libraries in each facility
designated by the City.
Develop Personal Protective Equipment Policies (PPE)
Consult and participate in safety committee meetings, as needed
Review accidents, and provide recommendations for changes to mitigate or prevent
recurrences, as appropriate. Recommend corrective action for safety violations, in
accordance with City policy.
Conduct or coordinate on‐site training that meets the needs of employees and the
requirements of OSHA and MN Department of Labor and Industry
Recommend additional OSHA and MN Department of Labor and Industry required
training, not performed by the Safety Consultant on‐site, to be performed in a cost‐
effective manner. Recommend other training programs for those programs that the
Safety Consultant cannot perform on‐site.
Provide onsite management training for any aspect of the Safety Program that needs to
be performed by existing City staff to those required to administer it. For example; if
Supervisors would be expected to conduct periodic safety audits, training shall be
provided to them by the Safety Consultant to enable them to perform this work.
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Provide facility and job site safety audits, conduct inspections of City facilities on a semi‐
annual basis and provide recommendations to help mitigate or prevent accidents at
each facility and work site. The recommendations shall be submitted to the Assistant
City Administrator and be discussed at safety committee meetings.
Review accident frequency and severity records to provide a basis for evaluating the
effectiveness of the safety program. Provide an evaluation of the Safety Program by a
mutually agreed upon date with budget recommendations for the following year’s
program.
Review the City’s Standard Operating Procedures and recommend updates on safety
concerns
Contract Period
The initial term shall be 12 months, with the possibility of two additional 12‐month terms.
Renewal will, in part, be based on employee feedback of training impact, satisfactory
completion of identified tasks and responsibilities, and measurable improvements in safety
within the City.
EVALUATION CRITERIA
Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria not necessarily in the following
order:
1. Ability to demonstrate how the vendor will meet course objectives using adult learning
methods, interactive processes and technology for delivery, making courses
meaningful, interesting, and professional.
2. Vendor demonstrated capabilities, understanding of requirements, qualifications,
experience, and references.
3. The suitability of the proposal to fulfill the City’s requirements.
4. Ability to meet course schedules for the initial agreement period, and optional renewal
years.
5. Overall cost and value of related services with a rate cap or guarantee in years (2) two
and (3) three.
6. The degree to which the vendor has responded to the purpose and scope of the
specifications, to meet all OSHA and other mandated safety and health requirements.
7. Conformance in all material respects to this request for proposal.
8. Confirmation the vendor/agency has the capability and capacity, in all respects, to fully
exercise the contract requirements.
9. Submit three (3) references that speak to experience on similar assignments with a
public agency.
10. Include the credentials of the staff to be assigned to the City.
SUBMITTING A PROPOSAL
Vendors must provide in their proposals a total cost to meet the requirements for:
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Safety training
Program development
Compliance Reporting & Records Retention
Consultation
Fee schedule for additional services
Proposals should also include a commitment by the vendor to meet the City’s scheduling
requirements. Proposals may include an option for alternative courses or program content
offered through a third party if unable to fulfill all the requirements within the scope of
responsibilities.
Vendors should detail the services they plan to deliver, including:
1. Description of vendor/agency and statement of qualifications ‐ This statement must
include:
o Company profile to include specific experience (background, history,
qualifications, etc.)
o Any associated firms that would be involved in providing services
o Resumes of key personnel
o Three to five references regarding public sector training. Include contact
name, phone number and email address
2. Training Calendar and Outline– Provide either an actual or an example of a course
outline or training calendar for a typical safety program offered, to include, but not
limited to, the approach to training; delivery method, tools and methods the
instructor will be using, etc.
3. Commitment/Flexibility – Include a statement of commitment, to include examples
of how the vendor/agency has demonstrated flexibility and willingness to
accommodate the City’s needs/requirements. At times, training and other safety
services will be needed outside the hours of a typical work day.
4. Additional information that vendor/agency wishes to share that sets vendor/agency
apart from other safety consultants.
Please send all proposals via email to:
Cheryl Jacobson
Assistant City Administrator
cherylj@mendota‐heights.com
Proposals are due by 4:30pm, Friday, April 10, 2020.
page 24
DATE: March 17, 2020
TO: Mayor, City Council, and City Administrator
FROM: Cheryl Jacobson, Assistant City Administrator
SUBJECT: 2020-2021 Teamsters Local 320 Labor Agreement
INTRODUCTION
The City Council is asked to ratify a two-year labor agreement with the Teamsters Local 320.
BACKGROUND
Attached for review and consideration is the 2020-2021 labor agreement between the City of
Mendota Heights and the Teamsters Local 320 representing Public Works employees, for which
there is a tentative agreement. The 2020-2021 agreement is consistent with the direction that
staff received from the City Council.
Changes and updates to the 2020-2021 contract include:
• Article 9 Work Schedules - Combined and amended language in sections 9.1 and 9.2 to
reflect a normal work schedule of eight hours within in a 24- hour work period or forty
hours in a five day period.
• Article 21 Wages—A 3.0% cost of living adjustment for 2020 and a 3.0% cost of living
adjustment for 2021.
Effective 1/1/2020 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5
Public Works Maintenance Worker $24.57 $27.14 $29.72 $32.29
Public Works Leadworker $33.66
Effective 1/1/2021 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5
Public Works Maintenance Worker $25.31 $27.95 $30.61 $33.26
Public Works Leadworker $34.67
• Article 22 Clothing - Employee clothing allowance has been adjusted to $410 for 2020
and 2021 under section 22.1.
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Section 22.3 provides for an annual boot allowance of up to $130 per year, with
carryover from year to year, up to a maximum of $260. Language was added providing
for a boot allowance for the Mechanic in the amount of $250 per year, with carryover up
to a maximum of $500.
Section 22.4 adds language establishing an annual uniform allowance for employees in
the amount of $190 annually for 2020 and 2021 to cover costs to purchase city
logoed/city identified t-shirts, sweatshirts, jackets and hats. The $190 is not subject to
carryover from year to year and is non-refundable.
• Article 23 Insurance—The City will provide $1,680 per month for 2020 per employee
towards health, dental, life insurance, short term disability and long term disability.
Contributions for 2021 shall be adjusted by what is determined to be granted to other
employee work groups.
BUDGET IMPACT
Costs associated with the negotiated agreement are included in the 2020 city budget.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends approval of the agreement between the City of Mendota Heights and the
Teamsters Local 320, covering Public Works employees for 2020-2021.
ACTION REQUIRED
If the Council concurs, it should, by motion, approve the 2020-2021 labor agreement between the
City of Mendota Heights and the Teamsters Local 320.
page 26
LABOR AGREEMENT
between
THE CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
and
MINNESOTA TEAMSTERS PUBLIC
AND LAW ENFORCEMENT
EMPLOYEES' UNION,
LOCAL NO. 320
Representing
PUBLIC WORKS EMPLOYEES
EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 201820 THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 20192021
page 27
ARTICLE TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE
1 Purpose of Agreement 1
2 Recognition 1
3 Union Security 1
4 Employer Security 2
5 Employer Authority 2
6 Employee Rights – Grievance Procedure 2
7 Definitions 4
8 Savings Clause 5
9 Work Schedules 5
10 Overtime Pay 6
11 Call Back 6
12 Standby 6
13 Legal Defense 7
14 Right to Subcontract 7
15 Discipline 7
16 Seniority 8
17 Probationary Periods 8
18 Safety 8
19 Job Posting 8
20 Waiver 9
21 Wages 9
22 Clothing 9
23 Insurance 10
24 Holidays 10
25 Personal Leave and Extended Disability Protection 11
26 Funeral Leave 11
27 Vacation 12
28 Injury on Duty 12
29 National Teamsters Drive 12
30 Educational Incentive 12
31 Duration 13
Signature Page 13
Appendix A
City of Mendota Heights Drug/Alcohol Testing Policy 14
Memorandum of Understanding (Post-Retirement Health
Savings Plan 16
Memorandum of Understanding (Parks Division Work Hours) 17
Memorandum of Understanding (Wages) 18
page 28
1
LABOR AGREEMENT
between
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
and
MINNESOTA TEAMSTERS PUBLIC AND LAW ENFORCEMENT
EMPLOYEES' UNION, LOCAL NO. 320
ARTICLE 1. PURPOSE OF AGREEMENT
This AGREEMENT is entered into between the City of Mendota Heights; hereinafter called
EMPLOYER, and Local No. 320, Minnesota Teamsters Public and Law Enforcement
Employees' Union. The intent and purpose of this AGREEMENT is to:
1.1 Establish certain hours, wages and other conditions of employment;
1.2 Establish procedures for the resolution of disputes concerning this Agreement's
interpretation and/or application;
1.3 Specify the full and complete understanding of the parties; and
1.4 Place in written form the parties' agreement upon terms and conditions of
employment for the duration of the Agreement.
The Employer and the Union, through this Agreement, continue their dedication to the
highest quality of public service. Both parties recognize this Agreement as a pledge of this
dedication.
ARTICLE 2. RECOGNITION
2.1 The EMPLOYER recognizes the Union as the exclusive representative under
Minnesota Statutes, Section 179.71, Subd. 8 in an appropriate bargaining unit
consisting of the following job classifications:
Public Works Lead Worker
Public Works Maintenance Worker
Public Works Mechanic
2.2 In the event the Employer and the Union are unable to agree as to the inclusion or
exclusion of the new or modified job class, the issue shall be submitted to the State
of Minnesota Bureau of Mediation Services for determination.
ARTICLE 3. UNION SECURITY
In recognition of the Union as the exclusive representative, the Employer shall:
3.1 Deduct each payroll period an amount sufficient to provide the payment of dues
established by the Union from the wages of all employees authorizing in writing such
deduction, and
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2
3.2 Remit such deduction to the appropriate designated officer of the Union.
3.3 The Union may designate certain employees from the bargaining unit to act as
stewards and shall inform the Employer in writing of such choice.
3.4 The Union agrees to indemnify and hold the Employer harmless against any and all
claims, suits, orders, or judgments brought or issued against the City as a result of
any action taken or not taken by the City under the provisions of this Article.
ARTICLE 4. EMPLOYER SECURITY
4.1 The Union agrees that during the life of this Agreement, it will not cause, encourage,
participate in or support any strike, slow down or other interruption of or interference
with the normal functions of the Employer.
4.2 Any employee who engages in a strike may have his/her appointment terminated by
the Employer effective the date the violation first occurs. Such termination shall be
effective upon written notice served upon the employee.
4.3 An employee who is absent from any portion of his/her work assignment without
permission, or who abstains wholly or in part from the full performance of his/her
duties without permission from his/her Employer on the date or dates when a strike
occurs is prima facie presumed to have engaged in a strike on such date or dates.
4.4 An employee who knowingly strikes and whose employment has been terminated for
such action may, subsequent to such violation, be appointed or reappointed or
employed or re-employed, but the employee shall be on probation for two (2) years
with respect to such tenure of employment, or contract of employment, as he/she
may have theretofore been entitled.
4.5 No employee shall be entitled to any daily pay, wages or per diem for the days on
which he/she engaged in a strike.
ARTICLE 5. EMPLOYER AUTHORITY
5.1 The Employer retains the full and unrestricted right to operate and manage all
manpower, facilities, and equipment; to establish functions and programs; to set and
amend budgets; to determine the utilization of technology; to establish and modify
the organizational structure; to select, direct and determine the number of personnel;
to establish work schedules, and to perform any inherent managerial function not
specifically limited by this Agreement.
5.2 Any term and condition of employment not specifically established or modified by
this Agreement shall remain solely within the discretion of the Employer to modify,
establish, or eliminate.
ARTICLE 6. EMPLOYEE RIGHTS - GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE
6.1 Definition of a Grievance
A grievance is defined as a dispute or disagreement as to the interpretation or
application of the specific terms and conditions of this Agreement.
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3
6.2 Union Representatives
The Employer will recognize representatives designated by the Union as the
grievance representatives of the bargaining unit having the duties and
responsibilities established by this Article. The Union shall notify the Employer in
writing of the names of such Union representatives and of their successors when so
designated.
6.3 Processing of a Grievance
It is recognized and accepted by the Union and the Employer that the processing of
grievances as hereinafter provided is limited by the job duties and responsibilities of
the employees and shall therefore be accomplished during normal working hours
only when consistent with such employee's duties and responsibilities. The
aggrieved employee and the Union Representative shall be allowed a reasonable
amount of time without loss in pay when a grievance is investigated and presented
to the Employer during normal working hours provided the employee and the Union
Representative have notified and received the approval of the designated
supervisor, who has determined that such absence is reasonable and would not be
detrimental to the work programs of the Employer.
6.4 Procedure
Grievances, as defined by Section 6.1, shall be resolved in conformance with the
following procedure:
Step 1. An employee claiming a violation concerning the interpretation or application
of thisꞏ Agreement shall, within twenty-one (21) calendar days after such alleged
violation has occurred, present such grievance to the employee's supervisor as
designated by the Employer. The Employer's designated representative will discuss
and give an answer to such Step 1 grievance within ten (10) calendar days after
receipt. A grievance not resolved in Step 1 and appealed to Step 2 shall be placed in
writing setting forth the nature of the grievance, the facts on which it is based, the
provision or provisions of the Agreement allegedly violated, and the remedy
requested and shall be appealed to Step 2 within ten (10) calendar days after the
Employer designated representative's final answer to Step 1. Any grievance not
appealed in writing to Step 2 by the Union within ten (10) calendar days shall be
considered waived.
Step 2. If appealed, the written grievance shall be presented by the Union and
discussed with the Employer designated Step 2 representative. The Employer
designated representative shall give the Union the Employer's Step 2 answer in
writing within ten (10) calendar days following the Employer designated
representative's receipt of the Step 2 appeal. Any grievance not appealed in writing
to Step 3 by the Union within ten (10) calendar days shall be considered waived.
Step 3. If appealed, the written grievance shall be presented by the Union and
discussed with the Employer designated Step 3 representative. The Employer
designated Step 3 representative shall give the Union the Employer's answer in
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4
writing within ten (10) calendar days following the Employer designated
representative's receipt of the Step 3 appeal. Any grievance not appealed in writing
to Step 4 by the Union within ten (10) calendar days shall be considered waived.
Step 4. A grievance unresolved in Step 3 and appealed to Step 4 shall be submitted
to arbitration subject to the provisions of the Public Employment Labor Relations Act
of 1971, as amended. The selection of an arbitrator shall be made in accordance
with the "Rules Governing the Arbitration of Grievances" as established by the
Bureau of Mediation Services.
6.5 Arbitrator’s Authority
A. The arbitrator shall have no right to amend, modify, nullify, ignore, add to, or
subtract from the terms and conditions of this Agreement. The arbitrator shall
consider and decide only the specific issue(s) submitted in writing by the
Employer and the Union, and shall have no authority to make a decision on any
other issue not so submitted.
B. The arbitrator shall be without power to make decisions contrary to, or
inconsistent with, or modifying or varying in any way the application of laws,
rules, or regulations having the force and effect of law. The arbitrator's decision
shall be submitted in writing within thirty (30) days following close of the hearing
or the submission of briefs by the parties, whichever be later, unless the parties
agree to an extension. The decision shall be binding on both the Employer and
the Union and shall be based solely on the arbitrator's interpretation or
application of the express terms of this Agreement and to the facts of the
grievance presented.
C. The fees and expenses for the arbitrator's services and proceedings shall be
borne equally by the Employer and the Union provided that each party shall be
responsible for compensating its own representatives and witnesses. If either
party desires a verbatim record of the proceedings, it may cause such a record to
be made, providing it pays for the record. If both parties desire a verbatim record
of the proceedings, the cost shall be shared equally.
6.6 Waiver
If a grievance is not presented within the time limits set forth above, it shall be
considered "waived." If a grievance is not appealed to the next step within the
specified time limit or any agreed extension thereof, it shall be considered settled on
the basis of the Employer's last answer. If the Employer does not answer a
grievance or an appeal thereof within the specified time limits, the Union may elect to
treat the grievance as denied at that step and immediately appeal the grievance to
the next step. The time limit in each step may be extended by mutual written
agreement of the Employer and the Union.
ARTICLE 7. DEFINITIONS
7.1 Union: The Minnesota Teamsters Public and Law Enforcement Employees' Union,
Local 320.
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5
7.2 Employer: The individual municipality designated by this Agreement.
7.3 Union Member: A member of the Minnesota Teamsters Public and Law Enforcement
Employees' Union, Local No. 320.
7.4 Employee: A member of the exclusively recognized bargaining unit.
7.5 Base Pay Rate: The employee's hourly pay rate exclusive of longevity or any other
special allowances.
7.6 Seniority: Length of continuous service with the Employer.
7.7 Compensatory Time: Time off the employee's regularly scheduled work schedule
equal in time to overtime worked.
7.8 Overtime: Work performed at the express authorization of the Employer in excess of
the normal work schedule in effect, (except for shift changes).
7.9 Call Back: Return of an employee to a specified work site to perform assigned duties
at the express authorization of the Employer at a time other than an assigned shift.
An extension of, or early report to an assigned shift, is not a call back.
7.10 Strike: Concerted action in failing to report for duty, the willful absence from one's
position, the stoppage of work, slowdown, or abstinence in whole or in part from the
full, faithful and proper performance of the duties of employment for the purposes of
inducing, influencing or coercing a change in the conditions, ei: compensation, or the
rights, privileges or obligations of employment.
ARTICLE 8. SAVINGS CLAUSE
This Agreement is subject to the laws of the United States, the State of Minnesota, and the
signed municipality. In the event any provision of this Agreement shall be held to be
contrary to law by a court of competent jurisdiction from whose final judgment or decree no
appeal has been taken within the time provided, such provision shall be voided. All other
provisions of this Agreement shall continue in full force and effect. The voided provision
may be renegotiated at the request of either party.
ARTICLE 9. WORK SCHEDULES
9.1 The sole authority in work schedules is the Employer. Service to the public may
require the establishment of, regular shifts for some employees on a daily or weekly
basis other than the normal work schedule. The normal work schedule shall not
exceed eightten (108) hours within a twenty-four (24) hour period, or forty (40) hours
in a seven five (75) day period, (except for shift changes). The normal work schedule
shall not involve a split work week.
9.29.1 Service to the public may require the establishment of, regular shifts for some
employees on a daily, weekly, seasonal or annual basis other than the normal work
schedule. The Employer will give advance notice to the employees affected by the
establishment of work days different from the employee's normal work schedule.
9.39.2 In the event that work is required because of unusual circumstances such as (but not
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6
limited to) fire, flood, snow, sleet or breakdown of municipal equipment or facilities,
no advance notice need be given. It is not required that an employee working other
than the normal work day be scheduled to work more than the scheduled shift;
however, each employee has an obligation to work overtime or call backs if
requested, unless unusual circumstances prevent him/her from so working.
9.49.3 Service to the public may require the establishment of regular work weeks that
schedule work on Saturdays and/or Sundays.
ARTICLE 10. OVERTIME PAY
10.1 Hours worked in excess of the normal work schedule in effect within a twenty-four
(24) hour period (except for shift changes) or more than forty (40) hours within a five
(5) day period will be compensated at one and one-half (1½) times the employee's
regular base pay rate. Pay for the seventh (7th) consecutive day will be at double (2)
time the employee's regular base pay rate, ARTICLE 7 excluded. Hours worked
between midnight and 7 a.m. shall be paid a differential of two dollars ($2.00) per
hour for a snow or ice emergency.
10.2 Overtime will be distributed as equally as practicable.
10.3 Overtime refused by employees will, for record purposes under Article 10.2, be
considered as unpaid overtime worked.
10.4 For the purpose of computing overtime compensation, overtime hours worked shall
not be pyramided, compounded, or paid twice for the same hours worked.
10.5 An employee may choose to receive compensatory time as compensation for
overtime hours at the rate of 1.5 hours for each hour worked. Beginning November
1, 2016, the maximum allowable balance of such hours carried into the next twelve
months (i.e., November 1, to October 31) shall be one hundred fifty (150) hours. The
Employer will convert to compensation an employee balance in excess of the 150
hours maximum.
10.6 An employee may request to convert to compensation any portion of their
compensatory time balance the second pay period in May and November if
requested in writing with the submission of the employee time sheet.
10.7 One hundred percent (100%) of the compensatory time balance converted to
compensation in May and November will be contributed into the employee's State of
Minnesota Post-Retirement Health Savings Plan.
ARTICLE 11. CALL BACK
An employee called in for work at a time other than his/her normal scheduled shift will be
compensated for a minimum of two and one-half (2½) hours pay at one and one-half (1½)
times the employee's base pay rate.
ARTICLE 12. STANDBY
Employees are expected to perform certain routine tasks on Saturdays, Sundays, and
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7
holidays and in conjunction therewith, must be available for servicing emergency calls also.
Stand-by duty pay shall be two (2) hours at one and one-half (1½) times base rate for each
twenty-four (24) hour period or major portion thereof. Compensation for performing routine
tasks shall be one (1) hour at one and one-half (1½) times base rate for checking of two (2)
sewer stations and any other emergency duties. This combination of holiday and weekend
compensation shall be at the minimum rate of five (5) hours at one and one-half (1½) times
base rate for the combination Saturday/Sunday weekend, and eleven (11) hours at one and
one-half (1½) times base rate for a three (3) day weekend.
ARTICLE 13. LEGAL DEFENSE
13.1 Employees involved in litigation because of negligence, ignorance of laws,
nonobservance of laws, or as a result of employee judgmental decision may not
receive legal defense by the municipality.
13.2 Any employee who is charged with a traffic violation, ordinance violation or criminal
offense arising from acts performed within the scope of his/her employment, when
such act is performed in good faith and under direct order of his/her supervisor, shall
be reimbursed for reasonable attorney's fees and court costs actually incurred by
such employee in defending against such charge.
ARTICLE 14. RIGHT OF SUBCONTRACT
Nothing in this Agreement shall prohibit or restrict the right of the Employer from
subcontracting work performed by employees covered by this Agreement.
ARTICLE 15. DISCIPLINE
15.1 The Employer will discipline employees for just cause only. Discipline will be in the
form of:
A. oral reprimand;
B. written reprimand;
C. suspension;
D. demotion; or
E. discharge
15.2 Suspensions, demotions and discharges will be in written form.
15.3 Written reprimands, notices of suspension, notices of demotion, and notices of
discharge to become part of an employee's personnel file shall be read and
acknowledged by signature of the employee. Employees and the Union will receive a
copy of such reprimands and/or notices.
15.4 Employees may examine their own individual personnel files at reasonable times
under the direct supervision of the Employer.
15.5 Employees will not be questioned concerning an investigation of disciplinary action
unless the employee has been given an opportunity to have a Union representative
present at such meeting.
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15.6 Grievances relating to this Article shall be initiated by the Union at Step 3 of the
Grievance Procedure under Article 6.
ARTICLE 16. SENIORITY
Seniority will be the determining criteria for transfers, promotions and layoffs only when all
other qualification factors are equal.
ARTICLE 17. PROBATIONARY PERIODS
17.1 All newly hired or rehired employees will serve a twelve (12) month probationary
period.
17.2 All employees will serve a six (6) months' probationary period in any job
classification in which the employee has not served a probationary period.
17.3 At any time during the probationary period a newly hired or rehired employee may be
terminated at the sole discretion of the Employer.
17.4 At any time during the probationary period a promoted or reassigned employee may
be demoted or reassigned to the employee's previous position at the sole discretion
of the Employer.
ARTICLE 18. SAFETY
The Employer and the Union agree to jointly promote safe and healthful working conditions,
to cooperate in safety manners and to encourage employees to work in a safe manner.
ARTICLE 19. JOB POSTING
19.1 The Employer and the Union agree that permanent job vacancies wit in the
designated bargaining unit shall be filled based on the concept of promotion from
within provided that applicants:
A. have the necessary qualifications to meet the standards of the job vacancy;
and
B. have the ability to perform the duties and responsibilities of the job vacancy.
19.2 Employees filling a higher job class based on the provisions of this Article shall be
subject to the conditions of Article 17 (Probationary Periods).
19.3 The Employer has the right of final decision in the selection of employees to fill
posted jobs based on qualifications, abilities and experience.
19.4 Job vacancies within the designated bargaining unit will be posted for five (5)
working days so that members of the bargaining unit can be considered for such
vacancies.
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ARTICLE 20. WAIVER
20.1 Any and all prior agreements, resolutions, practices, policies, rules and regulations
regarding terms and conditions of employment, to the extent inconsistent with the
provisions of this Agreement, are hereby superseded.
20.2 The parties mutually acknowledge that during negotiations, which resulted in this
Agreement, each had the unlimited right and opportunity to make demands and
proposals with respect to any term or condition of employment not removed from law
by bargaining. All are set forth in writing in this Agreement for the stipulated duration
of this Agreement. The Employer and the Union each voluntarily and unqualifiedly
waives the right to meet and negotiate regarding any and all terms and conditions or
employment referred to or covered by this Agreement, even though such terms or
conditions may not have been within the knowledge or contemplation of either or
both parties at the time this contract was negotiated or executed.
ARTICLE 21. WAGES
21.1 Increase wages by 2.53.0% for 2018 2020 and 2.53.0% for 20192021, and create
steps as listed below.
Effective 1/1/2020 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5
Public Works Maintenance Worker $24.57 $27.14 $29.72 $32.29
Public Works Leadworker $33.66
Effective 1/1/2021 Step 2 Step 3 Step 4 Step 5
Public Works Maintenance Worker $25.31 $27.95 $30.61 $33.26
Public Works Leadworker $34.67
21.2 Work performed, as assigned by the Employer, to replace an absent mechanic shall
be compensated at one-half (1/2) the difference between the employee's regular
compensation and the mechanic's regular compensation. The mechanic is absent
when on authorized leave or vacation.
ARTICLE 22. CLOTHING
22.1 Clothing allowance for 201820 in the amount of $420.00 and for 202119 in the
amount of $43010.00, annually.
The City shall provide each employee with five (5) work t-shirts, a reflective vest,
winter jacket, work gloves in quantities as needed and two (2) summer hats and two
(2) winter hats. Employees will be responsible for wearing a City provided work t-
shirt displaying the City logo as their outer layer or wear a City-provided safety vest
on the outermost layer of clothing during work hours.
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22.2 In lieu of a clothing allowance, the Mechanic position will receive uniforms through
an approved vendor.
22.3 Yearly allowance of one hundred dollars ($100) for purchase of protective/safety
boots. Yearly boot allowance can carryover from year to year, up to a maximum of
$200.00.Employees shall be reimbursed for actual costs of protective/safety boots
up to $130.00 dollars per year. Yearly boot allowance can be carried over from year
to year, up to a maximum of $260.00.
The Mechanic shall be reimbursed for actual costs of protective/safety boots up to
$250.00 per year. Yearly boot allowance can be carried over from year to year, up
to a maximum of $500.00.
22.4 Employees will be responsible for wearing clothing with the City logo or city
identification on the outermost layer. A uniform allowance account will be
established for each employee in the amount of $190.00 annually for 2020 and 2021
to cover costs to purchase city logoed/city identified t-shirts, sweatshirts, jackets and
hats. The $190.00 shall not be subject to carryover, and monies not expended shall
not be refundable.
22.4
ARTICLE 23. INSURANCE
The Employer will contribute up to a maximum of one thousand six hundred eighty dollars
($1,680.00) per month per employee for 2018 2020 towards health, term life, short term
disability, long-term disability insurance and dental insurance. The Employer will contribute
up to a maximum of one thousand six eighty hundred dollars ($1,680.00) per month per
employee for 2019 2021 towards health, term life, short term disability, long-term disability
and dental insurance. If any City of Mendota Heights employee group is awarded a higher
amount in 2018 2020 or 201921 the Union members shall receive the higher amount.
ARTICLE 24. HOLIDAYS
24.1 Twelve (12) paid 8-hour holidays are granted. Ten (10) conventional holidays are as
follows:
24.2
January 1 New Year’s Day
3rd Monday of February President’s Day
Friday before Easter Good Friday
Last Monday in May Memorial Day
July 4 Independence Day
1st Monday in September Labor Day
2nd Monday in October Columbus Day
November 11 Veterans’ Day
4th Thursday of November Thanksgiving Day
December 25 Christmas
If January 1, New Year's Day; July 4, Independence Day; November 11, Veterans'
Day; or December 25, Christmas, fall on Saturday, the preceding Friday shall be
considered a holiday. If January 1, July 4, November 11, or December 25 fall on a
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Sunday, the following Monday shall be considered a holiday.
24.324.2 In recognition of Martin Luther King's birthday, an eleventh (11th) day, a
floating holiday, will be granted, conditioned that scheduling arrangements must be
approved by the supervisor at least two (2) days in advance of the floating holiday.
One (1) additional floating holiday will be included in the schedule for a total of two
(2) floating holidays.
24.424.3 An employee required to work on a scheduled holiday will be compensated at
one and one-half (1½) times the employee's regular rate of pay, and will receive time
off equivalent to the holiday hours worked, to a maximum of eight (8), at a time
subsequently scheduled by the supervisor. Employees working on Thanksgiving
holiday and Christmas holiday shall receive two (2) times the employee's regular rate
of pay.
ARTICLE 25. PERSONAL LEAVE and EXTENDED DISABILITY PROTECTION
25.1 Personal Leave: All permanent full-time employees shall accrue personal leave at
the rate of four (4) hours per month, to a maximum of 320 hours. Personal leave
shall be available for use without restriction, except prior approval of the supervisor.
An employee shall not be allowed to use more than twenty (20) consecutive
personal days, or a combination of twenty (20) consecutive personal and vacation
days, without prior approval of the City Council.
Each December 1, any employee with an accrued personal leave balance in excess
of 320 hours may convert the excess hours at the rate of fifty percent (50%), to
either additional cash compensation, or additional vacation time. The compensation
will be made, or the extra vacation credited, with the second payroll in December.
Upon separation, employees shall be compensated for any unused personal leave
balance.
25.2 Extended Disability Protection: All permanent full-time employees shall accrue
extended disability leave at the rate of four (4) hours per month, to a cumulative
maximum of six hundred and forty (640) hours. Extended disability protection is
available for use on the first (1st) consecutive day of a personal illness, and
thereafter, or anytime for a work related illness or injury.
Employees are to keep their supervisor informed of their condition. The supervisor
may require a letter of report from the attending physician. Claiming extended
disability leave when physically fit may be cause for disciplinary action, including
transfer, demotion, suspension, or dismissal.
In cases of extreme emergency involving employees with a record of meritorious
service, who through serious or protracted illness have used up all accumulated
personal leave, extended disability leave, vacation leave, and compensatory time off,
an extension of extended disability leave beyond the maximum provided in this
resolution may be granted by the City Council. The resultant deficit will be repaid
promptly through application of future personal and extended disability leave
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accruals.
25.3 Employees will contribute twenty percent (20%) of their total accrued personal leave
hours on November 1st of each year beginning in November of 2007 which will be
put into the State of Minnesota's Post Retirement Health Care Savings Plan(s) in
their account/name.
25.4 Upon separation from employment with the City, an employee will put all unused
vacation and personal leave, hours for hours, into the State of Minnesota's Post
Retirement Health Care Savings Plan(s).
ARTICLE 26. FUNERAL LEAVE
All permanent employees, both full-time and part-time, may attend the funeral of their
spouse, mother, father, children, brother, sister, mother-in-law, father-in-law, grandparent,
brother-in-law, sister-in-law, son- in-law, daughter-in-law, and grandchild as paid Funeral
Leave. Such funeral leave shall not exceed twenty- four (24) hours and shall not be counted
as sick leave.
ARTICLE 27. VACATION
27.1 Time is accrued according to the following schedule:
Eighty (80) hours after one (1) year service; and eighty (80) hours per year through
four (4) years of service;
One hundred twenty (120) hours per year after five (5) years of service and one
hundred twenty (120) hours per year through nine (9) years of service;
Eight (8) additional hours per year after ten (10) years of service with a maximum of
one hundred sixty (160) after fifteen (15) years of service.
27.2 Employees may accrue vacation leave not to exceed a maximum of two hundred
(200) hours.
27.3 No employees shall be permitted to waive vacation for the purpose of receiving
double pay.
ARTICLE 28. INJURY ON DUTY
Employees injured during the performance of their duties for the EMPLOYER and thereby
rendered unable to work for the EMPLOYER will be paid the difference between the
employee regular pay and Worker Compensation insurance payments for a period not to
exceed one hundred twenty (120) working days per injury, not charged to the employee
vacation, sick leave or other accumulated paid benefits.
ARTICLE 29. NATIONAL TEAMSTERS D.R.I.V.E. (Democratic/Republican//lndependentIndependent Voter
Education)
Upon receipt of a properly executed voluntary authorization card from an employee, the City
will deduct from the employee's salary such amounts as the employee authorizes to pay
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National Teamsters D.R.I.V.E. Any start-up costs will be reimbursed by the Union.
ARTICLE 30. EDUCATIONAL INCENTIVE
30.1 Certification/License are paid on a straight time basis. Monthly payments for
certification shall be as follows:
MPCA Underground Storage Tank Operator $20.00
Pesticide Applicator License $20.00
Roads Scholar Certification (LTAP) $20.00
Tree Inspector Certification $20.00
Waste Water Operator Certification S-C $20.00
Waste Water Operation Certification D $20.00
30.2 The City reserves the ability to limit the number of compensated certifications/
licenses covered under Article 30.
ARTICLE 31. DURATION
This Agreement shall be effective as of January 1, 201820 and shall remain in full force and
effective until December 31, 201921.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement on this
day of ,20172020.
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS MINNESOTA TEAMSTERS LOCAL NO. 320
Mayor Mike Horton Martin Goff, Business Agent
City Administrator Steward
City Clerk
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APPENDIX A
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
DRUG/ALCOHOL TESTING POLICY
(Adopted: )
The City of Mendota Heights (hereinafter "City" or "Mendota Heights") values its employees
and citizens, and recognizes the need for a safe, productive and healthy work environment.
Employees who abuse drugs and/or alcohol are less productive, less dependable, and are a
critical threat to the safety, security and welfare of themselves, fellow employees, vendors,
and citizens. It is the policy to the City Mendota Heights to maintain a workplace free from
the use and abuse of drugs and alcohol. The City of Mendota Heights will require that all
employees and applicants participate in, consent and comply with the terms of this Policy as
a condition of employment and continued employment. If questions arise regarding this
Policy, please direct them to the City Administrator.
As part of its continuing effort to protect health, safety and security, the City of Mendota
Heights has adopted a drug/alcohol testing policy in accordance with Minnesota law, as
follows:
1. The use, sale, possession, or transfer of drugs or alcohol are strictly prohibited by all
employees and job applicants on City property, and at all times while City property is
in use.
2. All employees and job applicants are subject to urinalysis or blood testing for the
presence of drugs and/or alcohol, in accordance with this Policy.
3. Job applicants will be tested after an offer of employment has been made in each
case, contingent upon the applicant's successful completion of the testing, and after
the applicant has reviewed and completed the Pre-Testing Acknowledgement form,
which will be supplied by the City.
4. The City of Mendota Heights employees will be subject to testing when there is
reasonable suspicion that:
They are under the influence of drugs or alcohol; or
They have violated the policy set forth in Paragraph 1 above; or
They have sustained a personal injury, or they have caused another employee
to sustain a personal injury; or
They have caused a work-related accident, or were operating or helping to
operate any machinery, equipment, or vehicle involved in a work-related
accident.
5. Any employee who has been referred for chemical dependency treatment or
evaluation, or is participating in treatment under an employee benefit plan, may be
required to submit to testing during the course of participation in the evaluation or
treatment, and for a period of two years following the completion of any prescribed
chemical dependency treatment program.
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6. Any employee or job applicant may refuse to submit to testing to be conducted
pursuant to this Policy, but refusal will result in the following consequences:
As to any job applicant: an immediate withdrawal of the pending job offer;
As to any employee: discipline or termination of employment, at the sole
discretion of management.
7. All testing will be conducted in accordance with the following procedures:
Each person to be tested will complete, sign and date a Pre-Testing
Acknowledgment form supplied by the City.
Each test will be conducted by a laboratory which is authorized by law to
conduct such tests, and which confirms to the City of Mendota Heights that its
procedures are in accordance with Minnesota law.
All samples which test "positive" on an initial screening test will be subjected to
a confirmatory retest by the laboratory, before the results are reported to the
employee or job applicant;
Results will be reported to each employee and job applicant in writing within
three (3) working days of the receipt of the results by the City.
Any employee or job applicant may submit additional information for the
purpose of explaining such test results, or may request a confirmatory retest at
his or her own expense. Any such additional information or request for a retest
must be submitted in writing to the City Administrator of Mendota Heights within
five (5) working days after notice of the results of the test.
A positive result on the final confirmatory retest pursuant to this Policy will result in
the following consequences:
a). Employee on the first incident: the requirement, as a condition of
employment, that the employee successfully complete a drug or alcohol
counseling or rehabilitation program selected by the City, at the
employee's expense, or under an employee benefit coverage program.
b). Employee on the second or subsequent such incident: discipline or
termination from employment, at the sole discretion of the City.
All tests employees will be entitled to receive a copy of the laboratory document
which certifies the test results.
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REQUEST FOR COUNCIL ACTION
DATE: March 17, 2020
TO: Mayor, City Council, and City Administrator
FROM: Ryan Ruzek, P.E., Public Works Director
Krista Spreiter, Natural Resources Technician
SUBJECT: Authorize Purchase Order for the Control of Invasive Plant Species within
Oȟéyawahe/Pilot Knob Historic Site.
COMMENT:
INTRODUCTION
The Council is asked to authorize a purchase order to Great River Greening for their 2020 work
plan for the management of invasive species and prairie management within Oȟéyawahe/Pilot
Knob Historic Site.
BACKGROUND
Mendota Heights has been working with Great River Greening on invasive species management
and native species restoration in Oȟéyawahe/Pilot Knob Historic Site for several years.
DISCUSSION
Great River Greening has been instrumental in establishing and managing this native prairie
community since the City acquired the site in 2006. Great River Greening is currently
implementing Phase IV of the restoration plan for the site (2018-2022 work plan).
The 2020 work plan for the Oȟéyawahe/Pilot Knob Historic Site will include soil amendments in
an effort to control the invasive species Canada goldenrod, as well as conservation haying. The
north unit of the site will be managed by a combination of prescribed burn and herbicide
treatment. This area will then be drill seeded with native grasses species, supplemented with
pollinator forb species. The City contribution for this work is $5,000 while also receiving
$15,000 from the Minnesota Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund.
BUDGET IMPACT
Great River Greening has acquired a grant of $26,000 from the Minnesota Environment and
Natural Resources Trust Fund which requires a minimum of a $5,000 local match. City Council
has annually included funding for management of the Oȟéyawahe/Pilot Knob Historic Site. The
available amount in the 2020 City Budget in the Parks Maintenance Budget for this effort is
$11,000.
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Great River Greening’s proposal is approximately $35,000, depending on quotes for tree removal
and number of replacement trees planted, which will be covered by a combination of the state
grant, and the city’s contribution. The city will only be billed on the actual work performed.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that City Council approve the purchase order for invasive species control and
site restoration to Great River Greening for their 2020 work plan for the management of invasive
species and prairie management within Oȟéyawahe/Pilot Knob Historic Site.
ACTION REQUIRED
Approve a motion authorizing the Public Works Director to issue a ‘not-to-exceed’ Purchase
Order in the amount of $11,000 to Great River Greening.
This action requires a simple majority vote.
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Pilot Knob Hill
Natural Resource Management Guide
Overview
GRG has 26k of Minnesota and Environmental Natural Resources Trust Fund additional dollars to bring
to this site by June 30, 2020. Release of these funds require 5k of non-state match. There are
sufficient opportunities to spend these funds by the deadline.
The current understanding is that City will provide 5K in match for these state funds for the full 2020
year.
The 2020 annual plan and this guide has been developed with GRG staff review, and briefly reviewed on
a few occasions with Krista Spreiter.
Canada/Tall Goldenrod control
The “Canada Goldenrod complex” of species consists of Tall Goldenrod (Solidago altissima), Canada
goldenrod (S. Canadensis) and Giant goldenrod (S. gigantea), which are very similar species and difficult
to identify from one anotherhr. These three species are commonly referred to as ‘Canada goldenrod’,
but plant experts are now correcting everyone’s identification saying that the common problem species
in the metro area is Tall goldenrod.
Tall goldenrod is an overabundant native, crowding out other species and reducing overall plant
diversity. While goldenrods play an important part in fall nectar and protein resources for polliantors,
they are overabundant in the face of human caused soil disturbance and, some recent studies are
demonstrating, from air pollution that raises the soil acidity slightly to the great advantage of S.
altissima. While the overabundance of Tall goldenrod is throughout the metro and the state, and getting
worse as time goes on, Pilot Knob has one of the earlier severe problems likely due to the severe soil
disturbance history (see LiDAR photo and aerial history) which included soil borrowing, excavating for
buildings, and leveling most likely for hay fields and/or pasture; and air pollution from the tens of
thousands of cars passing by on Hwy 55 on a daily basis.
Recommended actions include:
Ag lime soil amendment
We applied ag lime on small goldenrod infestation sites for the first time in late winter 2019 and then
monitored the results. No significant reduction was observed, however application rates and application
methods, and time lapse are major factors. We do not recommend scaling this practice up in 2020,
however we agree with Krista’s recommendation that we instead continue with a second set of test
plots. We are looking at a revised application design include moving the plots to a hayed area, higher
application rate, review of particle size and application method and timing. Further, Greening is
proposing ‘plot monitoring’ to a U of M grad student club that has expressed interest in volunteering.
page 46
If proven to be effective, this practice can be scaled up and is worthy of further consideration. This
would be done starting in March; monitoring would continue throughout the year
• <1 ac total;
• total budget 3K, 2K before June 30.
Conservation Haying
We recommend continuing with the late haying of goldenrod to help contain this species. This is a
service that is subcontracted, with contract management and monitoring done by Greening.
Like most plant species, Tall goldenrod is ‘vulnerable’ to above ground removal when it is reproducing
(from flowering to seed set) as many of the stored resources are brought up from the roots to the above
ground parts in order to maximize reproduction. Removal of the above ground parts at this time
maximizes systemic removal of nutrient resources from the plant colony and weakens it.
We started employing conservation haying in 2017 on the hill, repeated in 2018, and expanded to the
south end of phase 2 (the flats) in 2019. Conservation haying appears to be most effective in the areas
where competition by other plant species still exist (i.e. not a monoculture). Spot Monitoring has been
conducted, revealing an increase in native grasses, and in one year severely stunted and weakened
goldenrod plants via goldenrod beetle infestation, which highly preferred the hayed plants. This is a
good reminder that the broken stems resulting from haying can benefit pollinators as well because
many need broken stems to overwinter.
Conservation haying subcontract are currently at $1000/ac, but optimism remains high to bring that cost
down. Greening will continue to develop subcontractors for this method. We can also move the timed
haying earlier in the year, so that the bales are ready for Halloween displays; the highest use of the hay
so far has been animal bedding, and a couple years the material has simply been composted at Acacia.
Bale removal is a significant line item expense that offers some opportunity. The removal of the material
is important as it mimics natural disturbance (fire, grazing) much better than mowing which leaves
thatch which in turn is detrimental to prairie health.
• 3 ac
• $4K
Spraying and seeding
In monoculture areas, we have sprayed several acres in 2019 which are now poised for seeding in spring
2020. Related to the overabundance of goldenrod is the under-representation by the mesic prairie
grasses. Given that and the need for intense competition in these areas, these sprayed areas should be
seeded and managed as (low diversity) grass stands (with the necessary high forb diversity elsewhere in
the site)
• 2 ac
• 3K
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Extensive Spot spraying of Goldenrod – not recommended
The goldenrod spraying above used the general herbicide glyphosate, which is a non-specific
herbicide appropriate for use in mono cultures. Because it causes non target damage, it is not
recommended for spot spraying
Subcontractors report the use of various herbicide ‘cocktails’ in their quest to control goldenrod.
While this practice can always change quickly, when I did a thorough check a year or two ago,
success was limited, and the herbicides in use generally had an unknown effect on pollinators,
particularly the federally endangered and state bee, the Rusty-Patched bumblebee (Bombus affinis)
which has been documented at the site. Further, while herbicides are definitely in use at the site,
stakeholder requests in prior years has been to minimize use of herbicides.
Mowing – not recommended
If funds exist for conservation haying, that is much preferred. Mowing can be used in a pinch but
only on a limited scale and with clean equipment.
Fall burns – not recommended
In general, prairie burns are not considered an effective means of goldenrod control. In particular,
the fall 2017 burn of the south end of ‘the flats’ backfired in terms of goldenrod control, taking one
of the more diverse sections of the prairie and promoting goldenrod the following years. (In theory,
this is also related to soil acidity)
Conservation Goat browsing – not yet cost effective
Goats are the one livestock that prefer broadleaves over grass. Several years of goat browsing
occurred on the hill, some of it timed to setback the goldenrod. Goat browsing had many positive
effects. However, it was both expensive and not-scalable. Currently, it is a provider’s market for
goat browsing though that can change quickly. On the other hand, I brought Minnesota native
Landscapes out to the site in 2017, a provider that has large herds, and they found the site too
small, too far from any of their large sites, and therefore not interested.
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Woody Species: Revised Approach
Pilot Knob Hill supported some woody species pre-European settlement. Traditionally, pre-European
settlement has been the target for restoration, though that is changing quickly with climate change
to target a functioning, resilient ecosystem that resembles a native ecosystem.
The original management plan recognzied the woody element by targeting oak savanna as one of
the ecosystems, partly because oak savanna is a prized ecosystem, with a great need for restoration
throughout the state.
Going forward, the recommendation is to broaden the acceptance of woody species at this site to
include oak savanna, shrubs, and scattered mesic trees.
Control invasive species
From the start, we have sustained the control of non-native invasive species at this site including
buckthorn and honeysuckle shrubs, and Siberian elm trees. Siberian elm has been the recent focus.
• 1K
Accept native volunteer specimens
Native shrubs have been accepted as a natural component at the site for a number of years. Willows
and plum in the ROW, red dogwood scattered throughout the prairie are examples. Native sumac is
also found at the site, and can become overabundant quickly. We have sustained non-chemical
containment of sumac throughout the restoration history, and included the trailhead area in 2019 as
part of that containment. Other woody species are in general contained with prescribed fire. ‘let
the fire decide’ is a good base for the approach in the future.
Hackberries were retained at the south end, as a nurse crop for the grove of 7 oaks. Those 7 oaks
are established now but given the revised management plan, the recommendation is that they stay.
Black walnut has been volunteering somewhat vigorously the past few years, likely reflecting the
higher than normal precip levels. During recent site visits, Krista and Greening concluded that they
are best to stay, as they are demonstrating climate resilience.
The box elder grove in the lower terrace does need periodic containment. Our approach has been to
keep them from encroaching g the oaks that are on the lower hillside, but more intensive
management has been a low priority given the past intense soil disturbance in the lower terrace
area, and higher moisture and low herbaceous diversity.
Remove grove of trees from former homestead
The north homestead site supported ash and silver maple in a grove configuration. The first plan
included retaining them until oak groves could be established on site, because this homestead grove
provided the proper shade component for a diversity of herbaceous plants.
This homestead grove now features dead or dying trees, and has outlived its usefulness. These trees
can now be removed.
• 1 ac
page 49
• 10K subcontract, low confidence estimate
Replacements can be considered now or in the future, but care should be taken in species selection
for those that are salt tolerant. This excludes desirable bur oaks, but includes surrogate swamp
white oaks which are in the ROW but are generally not fire resistant.
• $300-500/tree, depending on size, initial cost
• Decent establishment and maintenance cost
Maintain oak groves
Three planted oaks groves and two scattered memorial trees exist at the site. Various maintenance
has occurred over the years. Some groves are ready to have their deer fencing removed. The grove
of numerous, small trees that will one day screen the Acacia log pile need mulching and fence repair
on a near annual basis.
• 1k/year
Pollinator shrubs
The east central 3 ac portion of the site, the site of the very first Biomass for Restoration grant
awarded by the DNR, has been very difficult to restore to grassland. For the first 5-10 years, it was
infested with non-native invasive burdock. This has improved, but the site also is prone ot invasion
by woody non-native invasive buckthorn and honeysuckle, and one Russian olive.
To get this area on a trajectory for affordable maintenance, the target community has been changed
to a grassland/shrubland matrix, with the primarily management goal of providing excellent
pollinator habitat. The approach is to embrace woody species, and turn the focus toward
determining which species.
In 2018, a large volunteer event was conducted to plant 1000s of small DNR shrub stock.
Unfortunately very few survived as the completion is fierce, vegetation is rank, and herbivory
occurred. A second wave of pollinator shrubs were installed by a subcontract in fall 2019, this time
with 100 large stock shrubs installed in thickets that will be easy to manage.
Shrubs are compatible with grassland management and prescribed burning. Burning helps contain
them, they can be top killed (some, like red dogwood, even prefer top removal every few years),
and unlike trees do not add significantly to the cost of burning. Shrubs are widely recognized as very
important early spring nectar sources for pollinators.
• 100 large stock shrubs, every year for 5 years
• 7K per year
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Prairie Management
What we have learned about Pilot Knob over the years is that in order to maintain the prairie, it needs
its full share of natural ‘disturbance’, in the form of burning, haying, and/or grazing. This need is largely
due to the disturbed, heavy soils.
It is imperative that disturbance happen in a mosaic pattern, with only portions of the site being
disturbed at a time, for pollinator management. Greening has practiced these pollinators bmp’s for
burning from the beginning at Pilot Knob, and given that the federally endangered state pollinator Rusty
Patched Bumblebee has been documented at the site, it is of utmost importance that practicing these
disturbance mosaics be continued. (Many practitioners exhibit disregard for these pollinator bmp’s
because it adds to the overall expense of burning due to loss of economy of scale).
Burning at Pilot Knob is challenging because of the limited wind windows, and it is not all that effective
at controlling goldenrod. This makes burn alternatives – haying, grazing – attractive. Pollinator bmp’s
dictate that all these forms of disturbance be accounted for in the total area disturbed; what helps
mitigate the combined effect is that each disturbance has its own impact on pollinators.
Prairie Burn
Conduct a late spring prairie burn on the north half of phase 2 ‘flats’ to promote prairie grasses Prairie
burns are a key process for prairies; timing them right is important to reach the specific resource
objective of a burn.
The state pollinator guidelines require that no more than a third of a prairie be burned at a given year.
Both this north burn unit and the hill unit are due for burns (burn seasons have not been productive in
recent years due to non-typical weather). The north unit is chosen as it will also serve to remove thatch
for the Prairie Seeding; it is also the most difficult to burn as it has the most restrictive wind window. As
an alternate, the hill unit can be burned instead as it has different wind windows. Both units will be
prepped (burn breaks, permits) for burning and priority will be given to the north unit with the hill unit
(including Hwy 55 ROW) as a backup unit.
• 3.5k
Spraying and Seeding
• See Goldenrod Section
Spring bloomers - trailside
Very early prairie flowers thrive in short vegetation. Mowed trailsides provide this habitat. A modest
amount of early spring prairie flowers have been planted along the trails over the years. Mowing has
been a combination of hired Acacia mowers (for soil shoulders only, not gravel), and GRG crew
conducting annual spot treatment of invasive species as well as general spray on the trail tread.
• $500/yr to maintain
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More can be done with trailside habitat. It consists of spraying the turf grasses, then planting pots and
plugs of very early bloomers in its place.
• 5-year plan: $3-5/sq ft of mowed trail shoulder area
Herbaceous Invasive Species Control
Pilot Knob has its share of herbaceous non-native invasive species, including perennials, biennials, and
annuals. Treatment consists of cutting, mowing, pulling and spraying, depending on the species and the
severity of infestation.
Non-native invasive species at Pilot Knob include leafy spurge, spotted knapweed, Queen Anne’s lace,
common tansy, burdock, smooth brome, reed canary grass, Canada thistle, bull thistle*, Japanese hedge
parsley, bird’s-foot trefoil, butter-and-eggs, white/yellow sweet clover, red clover, oxeye daisy, daisy
fleabane, and cow/hairy vetch. The threat of new invasive species always exists. Each year brings a
different palette of invasive species depending on life cycle and conditions.
• $2k/year
Greening has taken great care over the years to distinguish between bull thistle and highly desirable and
native field/pasture thistle* at Pilot Knob. Many of the thistles seen at Pilot Knob today are native
species.
Sheep Grazing - potential
Sheep graze on grasses. They can be used to control undesirable grasses, and can be used to work seeds
of desirable species into the soil effectively. Tall warm-season prairie grasses are underrepresented in
the Pilot Knob prairie, and cool season grasses are over represented. In 2016-2017, intensive sheep
grazing with under-hoof seeding trials on a small test plot in the Phase II notth unit were conducted. Like
goat browsing, the results and impact were quite positive, but the treatment could not be scaled and
therefore was expensive. Sheep grazing is a good option to keep developing.
Horses were used in the very first grazing efforts at Pilot Knob about 10 years ago, but are also not
scalable. Cattle have yet to be available for hire. Native bison and elk, the most highly prized grazers and
browsers, are very expensive due to the fencing and transport requirements if even available, and the
site cannot support a herd of either species for an extended period. While not native, sheep are
currently the most desirable grazer (desirable goats are ‘browsers’) in terms of effect, availability, and
ease of handling for cool-season grass control and increasing prairie plant diversity.
Infrastructure
Over the years, we have worked informally with Public Works to help with medicine wheels, overlooks,
trail erosion, sign maintenance, fence maintenance, gate locks.
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REQUEST FOR COUNCIL ACTION
DATE: March 17, 2020
TO: Mayor, City Council, and City Administrator
FROM: Ryan Ruzek, P.E., Public Works Director
SUBJECT: Resolution 2020-18 Sponsoring a Natural and Scenic Area Grant for 2085
Valencour Circle
COMMENT:
INTRODUCTION
The Council is asked to approve Resolution 2020-18 authorizing staff to submit a Natural and
Scenic Area Grant Application to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for
acquisition of 2085 Valencour Circle.
BACKGROUND
The Natural and Scenic Area Grant Program assists local governments and school districts in
acquiring fee title acquisition and permanent easement acquisition to protect high quality natural
and/ or scenic areas. Public access should be provided to the extent necessary to allow users to
experience the natural and scenic qualities protected. High levels of development or active use
are not appropriate. The grant provides matching funds for up to 50% of the cost for the
acquisition. Eligible projects include:
• Fee title acquisition of natural or scenic areas.
• Permanent easement acquisition of natural or scenic areas.
• Minimal betterment activities are eligible as part of an acquisition project including site
surveying, boundary signing, and immediate measures needed to stabilize the site and ensure the
safety of users.
• Active restoration efforts are eligible as part of an acquisition project that would significantly
improve the site’s natural resource values.
DISCUSSION
In general, outdoor recreation use of natural and scenic areas would be limited to passive outdoor
recreation activities, such as nature observation, walking or hiking, bird watching, cross country
skiing, snow shoeing, photography and similar low impact activities. In some cases,
environmental education activities may be appropriate. Limited facilities to support these
activities, such as trails, overlooks, interpretive displays, benches, informational and boundary
signing, protective fencing, and parking, are allowable uses. In some cases, rest room facilities
and limited picnic facilities may also be compatible.
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Development proposals will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the specific
characteristics of the natural and scenic area. Any development should be designed to avoid
damage to natural resources and features, steer activities away from sensitive areas (such as steep
bluffs, erosion prone shorelines, rare plant communities, etc.), and discourage inappropriate
recreational use. Facilities must meet all safety and accessibility standards.
Natural and scenic areas should not be developed for more active outdoor recreational uses, such
as athletic fields and courts, campgrounds, motorized sports, etc. Any use or development that
could result in damage to significant natural and/or scenic resources must be avoided.
BUDGET IMPACT
The City of Mendota Heights has been in discussion with Dakota County on a partnership for
this property acquisition. Grants are reimbursed up to 50 percent of the total eligible costs. The
remaining 50 percent "local share" can consist of cash or the value of materials, labor and
equipment usage provided by the local sponsor or by local donations or any combination thereof.
The city proposes that proceeds from the sale of the Village lots would fund its portion of the
“local share”.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the City Council approve Resolution 2020-18 Sponsoring a Natural and
Scenic Area Grant submittal to the DNR for the purchase of the property at 2085 Valencour
Circle.
ACTION REQUIRED
If Council agrees with the staff recommendation, they should pass a motion adopting
RESOLUTION 2020-15 SPONSORING A NATURAL AND SCENIC AREA GRANT
FOR 2085 VALENCOUR CIRCLE.
This action requires a simple majority vote.
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CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION 2020-18
RESOLUTION SPONSORING A NATURAL AND SCENIC AREA GRANT
FOR 2085 VALENCOUR CIRCLE
BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Mendota Heights act as legal sponsor for the project
contained in the Natural and Scenic Area Grant Program Application to be submitted on March
27, 2020 and that the Public Works Director is hereby authorized to apply to the Department of
Natural Resources for funding of this project on behalf of the City of Mendota Heights.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Mendota Heights has the legal authority to
apply for financial assistance, and financial capability to meet the match requirement and ensure
adequate management and protection.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Mendota Heights has not incurred any costs
described on Item 5 and has not entered into a written purchase agreement for the property
described on Item 4.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that, upon approval of its application by the state, the City of
Mendota Heights may enter into an agreement with the State of Minnesota for the above-
referenced project, and that the City of Mendota Heights certifies that it will comply with all
applicable laws and regulations as stated in the grant agreement including dedicating the park
property for natural and/or scenic uses into perpetuity.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Public Works Director is hereby authorized
to execute such agreements as are necessary to implement the project on behalf of the applicant.
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Mendota Heights this 17th day of March 2020.
CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
___________________________
Neil Garlock, Mayor
ATTEST
____________________________
Lorri Smith, City Clerk
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3/6/2020 Mendota Heights Building Activity Report Mike Andrejka, Building Official
February 1, 2020 thru February 29, 2020 January 1, 2020 thru February 29, 2020 January 1, 2019 thru February 28, 2019 January 1, 2018 thru February 28, 2018
Building Permit No.Valuation Fee Collected Building Permit No.Valuation Fee Collected Building Permit No.Valuation Fee Collected Building Permit No.Valuation Fee Collected
SFD 1 400,000.00$ $4,713.64 SFD 1 400,000.00$ $4,713.64 SFD 1 629,742.00$ $6,776.14 SFD 3 1,717,925.00$ 18,856.62$
Apartment 0 -$ $0.00 Apartment 0 -$ $0.00 Apartment 0 -$ $0.00 Apartment 0 -$ -$
Townhouse 0 -$ $0.00 Townhouse 0 -$ $0.00 Townhouse 0 -$ $0.00 Townhouse 4 696,000.00$ 8,921.25$
Condo 0 -$ $0.00 Condo 0 -$ $0.00 Condo 0 -$ $0.00 Condo 0 -$ -$
Misc 23 302,953.28$ 4,468.17$ Misc 53 744,932.28$ 10,626.23$ Misc 54 963,294.00$ 11,821.04$ Misc 48 975,328.82$ 13,834.69$
Commercial 4 324,858.00$ $3,334.50 Commercial 5 334,858.00$ $3,526.25 Commercial 0 -$ $0.00 Commercial 1 50,960.00$ 739.25$
Sub Total 28 1,027,811.28$ 12,516.31$ Sub Total 59 1,479,790.28$ 18,866.12$ Sub Total 55 1,593,036.00$ 18,597.18$ Sub Total 56 3,440,213.82$ 42,351.81$
Trade Permit No.Valuation Fee Collected Trade Permit No.Valuation Fee Collected Trade Permit No.Valuation Fee Collected Trade Permit No.Valuation Fee Collected
Plumbing 19 $1,744.85 Plumbing 44 $3,987.15 Plumbing 35 $2,881.50 Plumbing 49 4,833.65$
Water 0 $0.00 Water 0 $0.00 Water 0 $0.00 Water 0 -$
Sewer 2 $150.00 Sewer 2 $150.00 Sewer 0 $0.00 Sewer 12 900.00$
Mechanical 21 $1,692.55 Mechanical 51 397.00$ $4,197.18 Mechanical 51 $4,546.05 Mechanical 87 8,682.40$
Sub Total 42 3,587.40$ Sub Total 97 8,334.33$ Sub Total 86 $7,427.55 Sub Total 148 14,416.05$
License No.Valuation Fee Collected Licenses No.Valuation Fee Collected Licenses No.Valuation Fee Collected Licenses No.Valuation Fee Collected
Contractor 0 $0.00 Contractor 0 $0.00 Contractor 158 $7,900.00 Contractor 173 8,650.00$
Total 70 1,027,811.28$ 16,103.71$ Total 156 1,479,790.28$ 27,200.45$ Total 299 1,593,036.00$ 33,924.73$ Total 377 3,440,213.82$ 65,417.86$
NOTE: All fee amounts exclude SAC, WAC and State Surcharge. Amounts shown will reflect only permit, plan review fee and valuation totals
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Request for City Council Action
MEETING DATE: March 17, 2020 TO: Mayor, City Council, and City Administrator FROM: John Boland, Public Works Superintendent SUBJECT: 2020 Street Sweeping COMMENT:
Introduction
The City Council is asked to award a contract for street sweeping for this year.
Background
Every spring the City goes out for bid to sweep the city’s streets. The bid price includes the
sweeping of the streets in the spring and fall.
Requests for bids were sent out to four contractors that have been interested in bidding in the past.
We received four bids and they are as follows:
Pearson Bros., Inc. $88.00 an hour
Mike McPhillps, Inc. $91.45 an hour
Allied Blacktop Company $95.00 an hour
Reliakor Services, Inc. $110.00 an hour
Discussion
Pearson Bros., Inc. has swept the city streets in the past. They will be providing five sweepers a
day to sweep the streets. City staff will be inspecting all of the streets in advance to determine
which streets will actually be swept—with the City-wide reduction in the use of sand (and salt),
some areas may not need as much sweeping, if any at all.
In 2019, the cost to sweep the streets in the spring and fall was $35,177.25. This relatively high
amount was due to an increased number of hours.
Budget Impact
There is $27,753.00 in the 2020 Budget for street sweeping and striping.
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the Mendota Heights City Council approve the bid from Pearson Bros.,
Inc., for their low bid to sweep the streets in the spring and fall of 2020.
Action Required
If Council concurs with the staff recommendation, they should approve the low bid from Pearson
Bros., Inc., for $88.00 an hour for sweeping the streets this spring and fall.
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DATE: March 17, 2020
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Dave Dreelan, Fire Chief.
Mark McNeill, City Administrator
SUBJECT: Moveable Training Wall System
Comment:
INTRODUCTION
The City Council is asked to approve the purchase of a movable training wall for installation in
the new addition to the Fire Station.
BACKGROUND
The Fire Station construction budget included the purchase of a moveable wall system for the
training mezzanine above apparatus bay 5, in the new addition. Fire Facilities Inc. of Madison
Wisconsin worked with the fire building committee and CNH Architects during the station design
phase to determine what type of system would work best for the space and meet our training needs.
This is a system of 4 ft. by 9 ft. panels which are suspended from a ceiling-mounted grid, and
allows the training area to be configured in a wide variety of formats—i.e., an apartment, a
residential basement, and many others.
MSA 471.345 Subd. 5 (Cotracts $25,000 or less) states:
If the amount of the contract is estimated to be $25,000 or less, the contract may be made either
upon quotation or in the open market, in the discretion of the governing body. If the contract is
made upon quotation it shall be based, so far as practicable, on at least two quotations which shall
be kept on file for a period of at least one year after their receipt. Alternatively, municipalities may
award a contract for construction, alteration, repair, or maintenance work to the vendor or
contractor offering the best value under a request for proposals as described in section 16C.28,
subdivision 1, paragraph (a), clause (2), and paragraph (c).
The training space above bay 5 was designed to incorporate the wall system from Fire Facilities.
As a result, no other quotations were solicited, or even possible to obtain.
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BUDGET IMPACT
The quote from Fire Facilities is $23,516.28. This expense was planned for in the construction
budget, and is within budget amount.
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that recommended that the City Council approve the purchase of this system
described at the cost of $23,516.28.
ACTION REQUIRED
If the Council concurs, it should authorize the purchase of a movable training wall system from
Fire Facilities, Inc., in the amount of $23,516.28
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CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS, DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
PARKS AND RECREATION MEETING
FEBRUARY 11, 2020
The February meeting of the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Commission was held on
Tuesday, February 11, 2020, at Mendota Heights City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve.
1. Call to Order – Chair Steve Goldade called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
2. Roll Call – The following Commissioners were present: Chair Steve Goldade,
Commissioners: Patrick Cotter, Pat Hinderscheid, Bob Klepperich, Stephanie Meyer, Dan
Sherer, and Amy Smith; absent: Student Representative Matthew Boland. Staff present:
Recreation Program Coordinator, Meredith Lawrence, Assistant City Administrator, Cheryl
Jacobson, Public Works Director, Ryan Ruzek, and Natural Resources Technician, Krista
Spreiter.
2.a Introduction of New Commissioner
Recreation Program Coordinator, Meredith Lawrence, introduced Commissioner Amy Smith.
Chair Goldade stated that the Commission had a chance prior to tonight’s meeting to meet the
new Commissioner.
Commissioner Smith introduced herself and stated that she looks forward to working with the
Commission and to continue the improvements around the city.
3. Election of Chairperson and Vice-Chairperson
Ms. Lawrence stated that tonight’s meeting is the annual organization for the Commission which
includes electing a Chair and Vice-Chair, noting that any changes become effective this evening
and the elected officers will hold the positions for a period of one year. She opened
nominations for Chair.
Motion Klepperich/second Cotter, to nominate Steve Goldade as Chairperson. AYES 7: NAYS 0
Chair Goldade stated that he is happy to continue as Chair and opened the nominations for
Vice-Chair.
Motion Meyer/second Cotter, to nominate Bob Klepperich as Vice-Chairperson.
AYES 7: NAYS 0
4. Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
5. Approval of Agenda
Motion Klepperich/second Meyer, to approve the agenda. AYES 7: NAYS 0
6.a Approval of Minutes from January 14, 2020 Regular Meeting
Motion Klepperich/second Hinderscheid to approve the minutes of the January 14, 2020 Parks
and Recreation Commission Regular Meeting. AYES 7: NAYS 0
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7. Citizen Comment Period (for items not on the agenda)
Eddie Drieman, 2356 Swan Drive, stated that there is talk of covered dugouts at Mendakota
field. He was the in-house Baseball Commissioner for Mendota Heights for the past three
years. He stated that they are trying to provide as much opportunity as possible for children to
play, and has noticed children being exhausted and sunburnt on the hot/sunny days. He
believed that the covered dugouts would provide a solution/benefit. He stated that the shade
elements should be pushed throughout the park system, with a focus on the sports fields/courts.
He stated that the baseball community supports the addition of covered dugouts.
Commissioner Cotter thanked the resident for coming in tonight and for sending his email as
well. He asked for input on the preferred type of dugout structure.
Mr. Drieman stated that he would highly recommend not having something fully enclosed, like
cinderblock. He stated that the dugout at Hagstrom King would be a good example, but noted
that structure is simply missing a roof covering. He stated that they need something simply to
keep the sun off the kids. Sibley put in good dugout examples.
Public Works Director, Ryan Ruzek, commented that the following Tuesday evening he has two
purchase order requests to go forward to the City Council which include dugout covers at
Hagstrom King and Friendly Hills Park, and highlighted the other proposed 2020 dugout
improvements which include Mendakota field.
Chair Goldade asked if there was only financing available for three fields, in addition to the
purchase orders moving to the City Council the following week, would Mr. Drieman prefer those
to all occur at Mendakota field or would another park receive priority as well.
Mr. Dryman replied that in his opinion Mendakota would receive priority as it receives the most
use from the community and from tournaments. He stated that Hagstrom King would receive
his second priority. Victoria Highlands Park is also a popular location.
Commissioner Smith commented that Mendakota is also used for softball and therefore that
field would capture both sports groups.
8. Acknowledgement of Reports
Chair Goldade read the titles of the three updates (Par 3, Recreation, Park Improvement
Updates, and Natural Resources Update) and polled the Commissioners for questions.
8.a Par 3 Update
There were no specific questions or concerns raised about the report.
8.b Recreation Update
There were no specific questions or concerns raised about the report.
Motion Klepperich/second Scherer to acknowledge the staff reports. AYES 7: NAYS 0
8.c Natural Resources Update
Natural Resources Technician, Krista Spreiter, identified work that will be completed by the MN
Department of Transportation which will begin this winter and continue into summer. She
reported that the two outfalls from stormwater pipes conveying stormwater under I-35E from the
west side of the highway to the east side will be replaced with the goal of reducing stormwater
velocity and erosion. She advised that an access would need to be made within Valley Park,
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adjacent to the highway, in order to complete the project and noted that staff worked with
MnDOT to find a plan that removes the least number of trees possible. She stated that the
Valley Park Pollinator Corridor work will continue and provided details. She provided an update
on the City’s Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) Management, noting that the City was awarded a grant
and reviewed the activities that will be completed with that funding. She provided an update on
the Oheyawahe/Pilot Knob historic site, noting that the Task Force of seven community
members was created with the mission of pursuing both short and long-term goals for the site.
She stated that Great River Greening will continue to partner with the City in management of the
site, as well as Valley Park, Rogers Lake Park and Copperfield Ponds. She highlighted
upcoming events including the Resident Tree Sale (March 11 – May 8) and events for
Earth/Arbor Day (50th Anniversary Celebration).
Commissioner Hinderscheid stated that it seems the City will lose a significant number of trees
from EAB. He asked if the City has considered allowing residents to donate trees to the city.
Mr. Ruzek stated that the City advertises Friends of the Parks, through Ramsey County, which
is a program that allows trees to be purchased and planted in parks.
Ms. Spreiter agreed that staff could explore the option of an adopt-a-tree type program.
Chair Goldade thanked Ms. Spreiter for her update.
Commissioner Hinderscheid asked if the City has done any wildlife research.
Ms. Spreiter commented that the City has not done that in the past but noted that could be a
part of the updating of the City’s natural resource plan.
Chair Goldade asked for details on Great River Greening.
Ms. Spreiter explained that is a non-profit organization that the City contracts with. She stated
that the organization does accept volunteer assistance on projects.
Chair Goldade asked if the outfalls would be visible from the walking trails at Valley Park.
Ms. Spreiter replied that the outfalls are not necessarily visible at this time but might be once the
trees are removed.
Chair Goldade asked for details on the 100 trees that would be planted by the City.
Ms. Spreiter stated that the City intends to plant 100 trees over two years; 50 per year, which
will replace, in close proximity, some of the Ash trees that have been lost.
Chair Goldade stated there is one spot vacant on the Pilot Knob task force and stated that it
would be a nice connection to have a member from the Park and Recreation Commission as a
part of that group.
Mr. Ruzek stated that staff could investigate the option of adding one more member but noted
that the intention was to have that group independent from the Park and Recreation
Commission. He provided details on the updating of the Natural Resources Management Plan.
Commissioner Cotter asked for details on the installation of an aerator.
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Ms. Spreiter stated that the City has had the aeration system since 2012 and explained that it is
installed in the winters to prevent fish kill and improve water quality.
Commissioner Sherer commented that he believed a consultant was hired the previous year to
help determine the causes of degradation of ponds and lakes (Augusta and Lemay) and asked
if there was an update on that item.
Ms. Spreiter replied that she does not have the details but noted that there has been an ongoing
study with Lake Augusta and some preliminary data has been received and is being reviewed.
She advised that a consultant will be hired to help find solutions and best management
practices that could be installed around the lake.
Mr. Ruzek stated that most of the data is showing that the lake is not turning over/mixing. He
stated that there is not an outlet and therefore the City needs to find a way for the water to mix.
He stated that the City received funds to complete a feasibility report and hopes to begin work
on that.
9. Unfinished Business
9.a Rules of Order Review
Ms. Lawrence stated that the rules of order were included in the packet for Commission review.
Chair Goldade asked if the Student position is a part of the rules of order.
Ms. Lawrence replied that is not. She noted that the current Student Representative will be
graduating, and staff will begin recruitment to fill that position. She noted that the Student
Representative position could be added to the rules of order in the future.
9.b Park Re-Assignments
Ms. Lawrence reviewed the parks that previous Commissioner Miller had. She stated that two
new Commissioners have joined since the last allocation of parks and recommended
reassigning the parks.
Commissioner Meyer selected Marie Park and Victoria Highlands.
Commissioner Hinderscheid selected the Dog Park and Ivy Hills.
Chair Goldade selected Wentworth and Valley Park.
Commissioner Klepperich selected Mendakota and Civic Center.
Commissioner Sherer selected Kensington and Hagstrom King.
Commissioner Smith selected Friendly Hills and Market Square
Commissioner Cotter selected Rogers Lake and Valleyview Heights.
9.c Community Engagement Check-In
Ms. Lawrence stated that the Commission decided to conduct community meetings to gather
input from different community groups, beginning the previous year. She asked for updates on
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groups that have met. She asked if the Commissioners that have not conducted their meetings
could provide a brief update.
Commissioner Meyer reported that they originally started the idea of reaching out to Community
Education but found that difficult to schedule and therefore are meeting with the Mendota
Heights PTA on February 24th. She stated that a resident in the Marie Park neighborhood is
also willing to hold a meeting in her home, to be scheduled.
Commissioner Cotter stated they made one attempt to schedule with Mendota Heights Senior
Living that was not successful, and are attempting to schedule/hold a meeting prior to the
Commission’s next meeting.
Chair Goldade stated that perhaps Commissioner Smith could assist with holding a meeting of
middle school students. He confirmed her consensus and noted that they would work together
to schedule that meeting.
9.d Pickleball Court Planning
Mr. Ruzek reviewed the options that were discussed at the last meeting. He stated that late in
2019 a resurfacing and restriping was done on the tennis court at Marie Park. He noted that the
City could advertise those courts more in attempt to gain additional use.
Commissioner Cotter asked what it would take to receive better information on whether this
pickleball setup is being used by the community.
Mr. Ruzek stated that Pickleball is noisy and therefore residents in that area might let him know
how often it is being used. He noted that perhaps a trail camera could be installed by the Police
Department attempting to gain numbers on usage. He stated that the City should promote this
more in attempt to gain more usage.
Commissioner Cotter stated that there had been discussions at several meetings related to the
excitement for the sport and the lack of available courts in the community.
Commissioner Hinderscheid stated that he reviewed neighboring communities and received
insight. He noted that Eagan restriped tennis courts and replaced a hockey rink with eight
additional courts. Eagan reported that the courts are heavily used. He noted that sound
barriers were installed to help buffer the noise. He stated that Inver Grove Heights also began
restriping tennis courts and built four new pickleball courts. He stated that the community was
excited, and that city also has indoor courts available. He stated that Pickleball has had an
increase of 650 percent over the past six years (per USA Pickleball Association).
Commissioner Cotter stated that it is evident that there is excitement and interest, but the
question is whether a hockey rink could be used or whether dedicated courts are needed. He
stated that the hockey rinks are heavily used and therefore the decision would be whether to
repurpose a tennis court or construct a new court.
Commissioner Hinderscheid commented that he spoke with Woodbury and that community
stated that using the hockey rinks was not successful.
Commissioner Sherer stated that in researching on the internet the common theme is that
tennis is on decline and pickleball is on the rise. He stated that it is clear that there is interest in
this sport. He referenced the proximity of Marie Park and Valley Park and stated that perhaps
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Valley would be a good candidate for a pickleball court. He asked for rough cost estimates for
the different options for courts.
Mr. Ruzek commented that the Marie tennis court improvements had a cost of about $82,000.
He estimated a similar cost to convert the Valley Park court. He stated that the hockey rink
improvement had a cost of about $12,000 and therefore Friendly Hills would have a similar cost.
He estimated a cost of $120,000 for a standalone court.
Commissioner Hinderscheid stated that Valley Park has a fair amount of freeway noise that
would help to buffer noise. He commented that Hagstrom King has some residential homes in
closer proximity.
Mr. Ruzek stated that he spoke with one of the homeowners that was supportive of the possible
improvement.
Commissioner Sherer stated that he did speak with residents in that neighborhood and there
was not concern with the noise but more the loss of open space that would occur.
Ms. Lawrence stated that a lot of tennis court reservations come in from residents, noting that a
lot of reservations have already been made this year. She agreed that while tennis is on a
decline as a sport, there is a lot of interest in Mendota Heights. She stated that the courts are
available at Marie Park though as well for tennis. She commented that noise can be an issue
for pickleball, noting that some cities have installed noise barriers. She stated that she has
received questions from residents as to what will be done to repair the other tennis courts in the
community.
Commissioner Cotter commented that there will not be a perfect location as each park has
residential neighbors. He commented that Valley Park seems to be more ideal with the shaded
screening that exists and the proximity to Marie Park for tennis users. He stated that he would
support a dedicated pickleball court at Valley Park.
Commissioner Sherer stated that he is hesitant to spend $125,000 on a dedicated court, or to
recommend that, until the City is confident that it will receive use. He stated that he would lean
towards the conversion of a tennis court at this time, noting that Valley Park would seem to be
the best choice.
Commissioner Klepperich commented that he’d choose to move forward with resurfacing the
Friendly Hills hockey rink for the use of Pickleball for the short-term. He stated that as this topic
continues to advance the discussion could continue during budgeting time with attempt to gain
funding for a new court in 2021.
Chair Goldade commented that he would support a standalone court.
Commissioner Meyer commented that Valley Park seems to be the best option at this point.
She stated that she would also be willing to delay action with advertising Marie Park more,
perhaps adding programming this summer to increase use.
Commissioner Hinderscheid stated that he would not want to wait to confirm interest, as the
sport is exploding. He believed that dedicated courts at Valley Park would be the best option.
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Commissioner Smith stated that if the court is put at Valley, that it is close to the existing courts
at Marie Park. She stated that she was not even aware there were pickleball courts at Marie
Park and therefore additional communication to residents could increase participation. She
stated that the hockey rink at Friendly Hills is very close to homes and could cause issues with
noise. She stated that a standalone court would be ideal, but she was unsure of the right
location.
Mr. Ruzek stated that perhaps he could send a letter to the properties that border Valley Park in
attempt to gather feedback. He noted that he could also post on social media to obtain
additional input on converting tennis to pickleball.
Motion Hinderscheid/second Scherer to recommend moving forward with a dedicated pickleball
court at the Valley Park tennis courts. AYES 6: NAYS 0: ABSTAIN 1 (Klepperich)
9.e Dodd Road Trail Corridor Study
Mr. Ruzek referenced an email the Commission received from a resident related to the previous
month’s discussion of a potential trail along Dodd Road. He stated that a local group of citizens
attended a Citizen’s Advisory Committee meeting prior to the reconstruction of Dodd Road in
2018, noting that many of those improvements were not incorporated into the project that was
completed. He reported that the City received a $25,000 grant to fund the corridor study that
was completed. He described the potential trail connections that were included in the study. He
stated that additional traffic studies are being completed on two intersections along Dodd Road
and noted that it would be the recommendation of staff that the trail segments be connected in
conjunction with the intersection improvements on Dodd. He stated that the City has applied
twice for grant funding but has not yet been successful to the level required. He noted that the
purpose of the case tonight was simply to provide an update to the Commission.
Commissioner Klepperich stated that Dodd Road is a State highway and asked if it would help
for the City to communicate with State Legislators in attempt to gain attention.
Mr. Ruzek stated that he was unsure if a State Legislator could assist in obtaining grant funds.
He stated that the City would be eligible to use MSA funds on the project.
Commissioner Klepperich stated that there is a lot of pedestrian traffic on the roadway and
therefore the safety element should assist in the grant application process.
Commissioner Sherer asked if the City will be submitting an application for grant funding this
year.
Mr. Ruzek confirmed that the City will be submitting an application for one segment this year.
Commissioner Sherer asked if one of the schools could pursue Safe Route to School funding.
Mr. Ruzek stated that staff could reach out to a principal of one of the elementary schools in
order to start that process.
Commissioner Hinderscheid stated that in the past he recalled that the City would need to have
right-of-way provided from the property owners in order to have the trail extend all the way south
but had trouble reaching agreements with the property owners.
page 79
Mr. Ruzek confirmed that although people like trails, they usually prefer the trail on the other
side of the road and not in front of their property.
Chair Goldade stated that the original request was connectivity between Bachelor and
Evergreen, the Commission heard a proposal for a trail on the east side of the golf course but
that was found to be expensive, and therefore an idea was added for a trail on the western edge
of the golf course. He stated that the Commission then determined that the western edge trail is
part of a larger project for Dodd Road in the future.
Mr. Ruzek stated that if there is a desire to move forward immediately, he would need to hire a
consultant, which would increase the project cost by 25 percent. He stated that staff will
continue to work with the County on the segment between Mendakota and Mendota Heights
Road.
10. New Business
10.a Marie Park Playground Subcommittee
Chair Goldade noted that a similar structure was used in the past for park improvements. He
asked a Subcommittee to be named for this process and reviewed the duties of those members.
Commissioner Meyer, Commissioner Smith, and Commissioner Hinderscheid volunteered to be
a part of the Subcommittee.
Motion Goldade/second Klepperich to appoint Commissioners Meyer, Smith and Hinderscheid
to the Marie Park Playground Improvement Subcommittee. AYES 7: NAYES 0
10.b Rogers Lake Skate Park Improvements
Mr. Ruzek stated that this was presented to the Commission the previous year but did not move
forward due to lake of funding. He stated that he reached out to Third Lair Skate Park and
confirmed the quote is still valid for 2020 and reviewed the three improvements that would be
included. He stated that he attempted to research additional companies to provide additional
quotes but found that most other communities use cement features and therefore Mendota
Heights is unique in its use of lumber features.
Commissioner Klepperich asked if the City Council has already approved the funding for this
project.
Mr. Ruzek confirmed that $10,000 was budgeted through the general fund for this improvement.
Commissioner Hinderscheid asked about the asphalt surface and when that would be repaired.
Mr. Ruzek stated that the skate park is a repurposed tennis court and therefore the asphalt is
about 40 years old. He estimated about $50,000 to resurface the lot, noting that he would also
remove the fencing as other communities do not fence their skate parks.
Commissioner Cotter asked if the features can be removed and reinstalled when the resurfacing
occurs.
Mr. Ruzek confirmed that the features are easily removed and reinstalled for resurfacing.
page 80
Motion Meyer/second Cotter to approve the Rogers Lake Skate Park improvements with Third
Lair. AYES 7: NAYS 0
11. Staff Announcements
Ms. Lawrence shared the following announcements:
• Summer parks programming registration opens Monday, March 2nd on the City website
and in person at City Hall.
Ms. Lawrence provided an update on the free summer park programming that will be available
to ensure there are opportunities for all members of the community to participate in. She also
provided details on the Fee Assistance Program.
12. Student Representative Update
None.
13. Commission Comments and Park Updates
Commissioner Klepperich
• Expressed appreciation for being named Vice-Chair.
• For those walking in the evening hours, there is a new light at the crosswalk near City
Hall at Lexington.
• Residents have provided compliments on the condition of the ice rinks.
Commissioner Sherer
• Complimented Public Works for their snow removal on the roads and trails.
• Friendly Hills and Hagstrom King were blanketed in snow on Sunday, but people were
still out enjoying the ice.
Commissioner Cotter
• Expressed appreciation of the citizen comments that the Commission has received
through email and in person.
Commissioner Meyer
• Expressed appreciation for the residents skating at Marie Park.
Commissioner Hinderscheid
• Residents that he spoke with at the Dog Park are enjoying the Dog Park.
• The lights were not on at Marie Park on Sunday night.
• Expressed appreciation for the movement towards Pickleball as he believes the
residents will enjoy that amenity.
Ms. Lawrence explained that the rink lights are not turned on when the rink is closed, noting that
the rink was closed due to weather conditions. She reviewed the rink hours.
Commissioner Smith
• Thanked the Commission and stated that she looks forward to providing more input
during her time on the Commission.
page 81
Chair Goldade
• Thanked staff for their efforts and all the work that is done in the parks to provide great
services and programming in the parks.
• Continued discussion on the Wentworth warming house will take place on February 19th
at 4:15 p.m.
• Excited about the changes at Valley Park.
• The Marie Skating park was busy with lessons on Saturday morning.
14. Adjourn
Motion Klepperich/Second Cotter to adjourn the meeting at 8:17 PM.
AYES 7: NAYS 0
Minutes drafted by:
Amanda Staple
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
page 82
DATE: March 17, 2020
TO: Mayor and City Council, City Administrator
FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Recreation Program Coordinator
SUBJECT: December Par 3 Financial Report
INTRODUCTION
The City Council is asked to acknowledge the December Par 3 Financial Report.
BACKGROUND
Attached is the December Par 3 Financial Report. The course officially closed for the 2019 season
on October 6.
The course had a 2019 revenue total of $146,350. The course had an expenditure total of $145,905
for 2019. The course’s operating revenue for the 2019 season exceeded operating expenditures by
$445. As of now these are preliminary 2019 final numbers, as they are subject just to change upon
the completion of the 2019 audit.
Staff has prepared an annual report, which will provide more details on the 2019 golf season. This
will be presented at a later date.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the Mendota Heights City Council accept the December, 2019 Par 3
Financial Report.
ACTION REQUIRED
If the Council concurs, it should, by motion accept the December, 2019 Par 3 Financial Report.
page 83
PAR 3 MONTHLY REPORT
DECEMBER 2019
MENDOTA HEIGHTS PAR 3
BUDGET TO ACTUAL REPORT
December 2019 (100% OF YEAR)
December
REVENUES December YTD YTD YTD
BUDGET 2019 2019 %2018
GREENS, LEAGUE & TOURN FEES $100,000 $168 $93,078 93.08%$84,049
RECREATION PROGRAMS $38,000 $0 $33,454 88.04%$29,970
CONCESSIONS $18,000 $0 $19,538 108.54%$18,047
SUNDRY REVENUE $0 $0 $280 100.00%$454
INTEREST $250 $0 $0 0.00%$0
CAPITAL CONTRIBUTIONS $0 $0 $0 0.00%$0
PAR 3 FUND REVENUE TOTAL $156,250 $168 $146,350 93.66%$132,520
EXPENDITURES December YTD YTD YTD
BUDGET 2019 2019 %2018
CLUBHOUSE SALARIES $34,300 $0 $27,146 79.14%$26,963
ADMINISTRATIVE SALARIES $22,608 $1,187 $18,442 81.57%$18,941
FICA/PERA $10,282 $162 $6,862 66.74%$6,835
MEDICAL INSURANCE $6,653 $554 $6,653 100.00%$6,336
U/E & W/C INSURANCE $2,080 $249 $3,218 154.73%$2,103
RENTALS $4,500 $0 $3,832 85.15%$2,819
UTILITIES $12,660 $1,061 $11,871 93.77%$12,553
PROFESSIONAL FEES - AUDIT $2,650 $0 $2,776 104.76%$2,725
PROF FEES - CONSULTING FEES $0 $0 $531 100.00%$0
PROF FEES - GROUNDS MGMT $5,000 $0 $0 0.00%$3,455
PROF FEES - GROUNDS WAGES $22,000 $0 $17,164 78.02%$16,351
PROF FEES - TREE MAINTENANCE $1,500 $0 $0 0.00%$0
ADVERTISING/NEWSLETTER $400 $0 $235 58.78%$284
LIABILITY/AUTO INSURANCE $4,200 $932 $4,739 112.83%$3,834
OPERATING COSTS/SUPPLIES $6,350 $79 $5,056 79.62%$6,775
FUEL $1,350 $15 $1,491 110.45%$1,614
REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE $28,250 $903 $28,851 102.13%$24,221
SUNDRY/DUES/MILEAGE/CLOTHING $4,000 $0 $3,303 82.58%$2,967
CONTINGENCY $0 $0 $0 0.00%$0
ONLINE REG & CREDIT CARD FEES $4,175 $46 $3,734 89.44%$3,832
PAR 3 EXPENDITURES TOTAL $172,958 $5,187 $145,905 84.36%$142,608
These are preliminary 2019 numbers and are subject to change upon completion of the 2019 audit.
3/12/2020
page 84
DATE: March 17, 2020
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Mark McNeill, City Administrator
SUBJECT: Amendment to Solar Garden Agreement
Comment:
Introduction:
The Council is asked to amend an agreement with Northfield Solar, LLC, regarding a subscription to a
Community Solar Garden (CSG), located in Rice County.
Background:
On March 5, 2019, the City entered into an agreement with Northfield Solar, for a portion of electricity
which is to be produced over the next 25 years in a CSG.
From a technical and legal standpoint, there are actually five gardens to which the City has subscribed.
These gardens are currently under construction, and it is expected that they will become operational by the
end of April.
Now that the installation of the solar arrays are nearing completion, more accurate determinations of the
amount of electricity, and subsequent savings, can be made. Four of the five gardens have had no changes
from what had been anticipated. However, the fifth garden will have more of its electricity produced to be
allocated to Mendota Heights—14.95%, vs. what had been anticipated as 8%. In addition, there has been
a slight upwards change in the retail value of the electricity, as determined by Xcel Energy.
This has resulted in an increase in the value of the electricity to Mendota Heights being produced.
If approved, the amendment as proposed will make the existing 2019 agreement more accurate.
Budget Impact:
The change in the allocation percentage, and the increase in the Kwh rate means that Mendota Heights will
see an increase of $137,859 over the twenty five year term of the agreement.
There is no cost to the City which results from this amendment.
Recommendation:
I recommend the City Council approve the proposed amendment.
Action Required:
If the Council concurs, it should, by motion Approve Amendment Number 1 to Subscription Agreement
SRC 041087, by and between Northfield Solar LLC, and the City of Mendota Heights.
Mark McNeill
City Administrator
page 85
AMENDMENT NUMBER 1 TO SUBSCRIPTION AGREEMENT
(SRC 041087)
This Amendment to Subscription Agreement (the “Amendment”) is entered into this
____ day of March, 2020, by and between Northfield Solar, LLC, a Minnesota limited liability
company (“Owner”) and the City of Mendota Heights, a Minnesota Municipal Corporation and
Political Subdivision (“Subscriber”).
RECITALS
1. Owner and Subscriber are parties to a Subscription Agreement (SRC 041087) dated
March 5, 2019, pursuant to which Subscriber acquires an allocation of capacity in a community
solar garden owned and operated by Owner and related rights to Bill Credits associated with the
Subscriber Energy associated with that capacity (“Subscription Agreement”).
2. Owner and Subscriber wish to amend the Subscription Agreement to properly reflect
the Subscriber’s Allocated Percentage based on new information now that the solar garden is
approaching its operational date.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the above premises, and the mutual promises in
the Subscription Agreement and this Amendment, Owner and Subscriber agree as follows.
AGREEMENT
1. Definitions. Capitalized terms used in this Amendment shall have the meanings given
to them in the Subscription Agreement unless otherwise expressly defined in this Amendment.
2. Amendment. Subscriber and Owner agree to amend the Subscription Agreement as
follows:
a. Exhibit C of the Subscription Agreement is deleted in its entirety and replaced with
the new Exhibit C attached to this Amendment.
b. Exhibit D of the Subscription Agreement is deleted in its entirety and replaced with
the new Exhibit D attached to this Amendment.
3. Effective Date. The effective date of this Amendment shall be March ___, 2020.
4. Valid and Effective. Except as otherwise expressly amended by this Amendment, the
Subscription Agreement remains in full force and effect. Subscriber and Owner each confirm
that their respective representations and warranties in the Subscription Agreement are true and
correct as of the date of this Amendment.
[Signature page on next page]
page 86
Northfield Solar LLC, a Minnesota limited liability
company
By: ___________________________________
__________________
Its: Manager
City of Mendota Heights, a Minnesota Municipal
Corporation and Political Subdivision
By: ____________________________________
Neil Garlock, Mayor
Attest: __________________________________
Lorri Smith, City Clerk
page 87
EXHIBIT C
ESTIMATE OF ENERGY PRODUCTION
Year
Estimated
CSG
Production
(kWh)
1 1,900,313
2 1,890,811
3 1,881,357
4 1,871,951
5 1,862,591
6 1,853,278
7 1,844,011
8 1,834,791
9 1,825,617
10 1,816,489
11 1,807,407
12 1,798,370
13 1,789,378
14 1,780,431
15 1,771,529
16 1,762,671
17 1,753,858
18 1,745,089
19 1,736,363
20 1,727,681
21 1,719,043
22 1,710,448
23 1,701,896
24 1,693,386
25 1,684,919
Total 44,763,681
Estimated Production was determined by using PVSYST software developed by the National
Renewable Energy Laboratory using publicly available historical data for solar resource at the
site of the Project, the manufacturer’s specifications for production capability of the solar
modules, and reductions for estimated losses for Project usage and conversion, transmission and
transformation of the electricity generated by the Project.
page 88
EXHIBIT D
ESTIMATED SUBSCRIPTION BENEFITS
Year
Estimated
CSG
Production
(kWh)
Allocation
(%)
Estimated
CSG Rate
($/kWh)
Subscriber
Rate
($/kWh)
Cost/Benefit
($)
1 1,900,313 14.95% $0.12550 $0.1240 $426
2 1,890,811 14.95% $0.12876 $0.1240 $1,346
3 1,881,357 14.95% $0.13211 $0.1240 $2,281
4 1,871,951 14.95% $0.13555 $0.1240 $3,231
5 1,862,591 14.95% $0.13907 $0.1240 $4,196
6 1,853,278 14.95% $0.14269 $0.1240 $5,177
7 1,844,011 14.95% $0.14640 $0.1240 $6,174
8 1,834,791 14.95% $0.15020 $0.1240 $7,187
9 1,825,617 14.95% $0.15411 $0.1240 $8,217
10 1,816,489 14.95% $0.15811 $0.1240 $9,264
11 1,807,407 14.95% $0.16222 $0.1240 $10,329
12 1,798,370 14.95% $0.16644 $0.1240 $11,411
13 1,789,378 14.95% $0.17077 $0.1240 $12,512
14 1,780,431 14.95% $0.17521 $0.1240 $13,631
15 1,771,529 14.95% $0.17977 $0.1240 $14,769
16 1,762,671 14.95% $0.18444 $0.1240 $15,927
17 1,753,858 14.95% $0.18924 $0.1240 $17,105
18 1,745,089 14.95% $0.19416 $0.1240 $18,303
19 1,736,363 14.95% $0.19920 $0.1240 $19,522
20 1,727,681 14.95% $0.20438 $0.1240 $20,762
21 1,719,043 14.95% $0.20970 $0.1240 $22,024
22 1,710,448 14.95% $0.21515 $0.1240 $23,308
23 1,701,896 14.95% $0.22074 $0.1240 $24,615
24 1,693,386 14.95% $0.22648 $0.1240 $25,944
25 1,684,919 14.95% $0.23237 $0.1240 $27,298
$324,959
The initial CSG Rate is Xcel’s proposed 2020 CSG Rate for General Service customers subscribing to
community solar gardens larger than 250 kW in size and which elect to sell RECs to Xcel escalated at an
assumed 2.6% for 2021. For subsequent years the CSG Rate has been escalated an assumed 2.6% per
year; actual changes in the CSG Rate will be set by the MPUC and may be lower or higher. Costs and
benefits shown equal the expected difference each year between the Subscription Rate and CSG Rate
multiplied by the estimated annual Subscriber Energy. Energy Production is calculated using the method
described in Exhibit C.
page 89
page 90
page 91
DATE: March 17, 2020
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Mark McNeill, City Administrator
SUBJECT: Fire Station Generator Sale or Disposal
Comment:
Introduction:
The Council is asked to declare the generator currently located at the Mendota Heights Fire Station to be
surplus, and therefore eligible for sale or disposal.
Background:
As part of the updating of equipment in the station, the emergency generator which is original to the
building is scheduled to be replaced. The construction contract currently provides for the City to pay the
electrical contractor to disconnect the generator, so that is may be scrapped. The generator is “hard-
wired” into the building.
However, it has since been found that the generator could be sold for salvage to a contractor who is
working on the project, and who is knowledgeable about the generator. That sale would save the City the
cost of having it disconnected; the contractor is willing to pay the City what appears to be a fair market
salvage value ($400) for the generator. If the sale cannot be made, the City will then proceed with the
original plan, and pay to have it scrapped.
Because of liability concerns that would be encountered by having a non-contractor individual inspect,
disconnect, and remove the generator, it is not advisable to offer this for public sale.
In order for the proposed sale to take place, the City Council would need to declare the obsolete generator
to be surplus. That can be done by means of adopting the attached resolution, 2020-21.
Recommendation:
I recommend that the Council adopt the resolution that declares the generator to be excess, and thus
eligible for disposal, either by sale or by scrapping.
Action Required:
If the Council concurs, it should, by motion, adopt the following resolution:
RESOLUTION 2020-22
A RESOLUTION DECLARING =THE FIRE STATION GENERATOR IN TO BE SURPLUS,
AND AUTHORIZING ITS SALE OR DISPOSAL
page 92
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION 2020-22
A RESOLUTION DECLARING CERTAIN EQUIPMENT TO BE SURPLUS, AND
AUTHORIZING ITS SALE OR DISPOSAL
WHEREAS, the City of Mendota Heights follows the requirements in State Law,
including Minnesota Statutes Section 471.345, and City Code, for the appropriate disposition of
unused or unneeded property; and
WHEREAS, in preparation for the remodeling of the currentFire Station building, an
inventory of existing equipment has been conducted, and the Fire Chief recommends that the
generator which currently exists in the building could be sold for salvage value, or scrapped; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Mendota Heights has duly considered this
matter and declares the generator to be surplus, and of no further need or value to the City; and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the Mendota Heights City Council hereby
declares the existing fire station generator to be surplus, and authorizes the Mendota Heights Fire
Department to sell or dispose of in accordance with local and state laws.
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Mendota Heights this 17th day of March, 2020.
CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
ATTEST
___________________________
_______________________ Neil Garlock, Mayor
Lorri Smith, City Clerk
page 93
DATE: March 17, 2020
TO: Mayor, City Council, and City Administrator
FROM: Ryan Ruzek, P.E., Public Works Director
SUBJECT: Resolution 2020-17 Approve Plans and Authorize Advertisement for Bids for the
Marie Avenue Street Improvements
COMMENT:
INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this memo is to request that the Council approve the plans and specifications and
authorize and advertisement for bid for the Marie Avenue Street Improvements.
BACKGROUND
The preparation of the feasibility report for the Marie Avenue and Wesley Neighborhood
Improvement Project, was authorized by the Mendota Heights City Council by adopting
Resolution 2018-58 and 2018-59 at the City Council meeting held on August 7, 2019. The
Minnesota Statute 429 process is required because the city intends to assess a portion of the
project.
The feasibility report for the Marie Avenue and Wesley Neighborhood Improvement project was
accepted by the Mendota Heights City Council. The Council called for a Public Hearing on
January 15, 2019 by adopting Resolution 2018-100 at the December 18, 2018, City Council
meeting. The recommendation in the feasibility report was to proceed with this project.
The proposed project will include improvements to Marie Avenue from Lexington Avenue to
Dodd Road. Improvements include water main replacement, pond dredging, pedestrian
improvements, a new trail from Victoria Road to Lilac Lane, retaining wall replacement, tunnel
rehabilitation, curb bump outs, bridge repairs, and pavement replacement.
Council ordered the Marie Avenue and Wesley Neighborhood Improvements at their January 15,
2019 meeting.
DISCUSSION
Proposed improvements for Marie Avenue will include the reclamation of the existing
bituminous roadway and the placing of a 2” bituminous base course and a 4” bituminous wear
course over the reclaimed pavement material, curb and gutter repair, bump outs, watermain
replacement from Dodd Road to Sutton Lane, land bridge repairs, storm sewer revisions, and
ADA improvements which include trail rehabilitation.
page 94
BUDGET IMPACT
The total estimated cost of the project is $3,600,000.
PROJECT COSTS
ITEM
CONSTRUCTIO
N INDIRECT TOTAL
Total Project $3,600,000 $720,000 $4,320,000
Totals $3,600,000 $4,320,000
The Marie Avenue Street Improvement Project is proposed to be financed by special
assessments, municipal state aid (MSA), municipal bonds, and utility funds. Funding sources and
amounts are shown below:
FUNDING SOURCES
ITEM
COST
ESTIMATE ASSESSMENT
MUNICIPAL
BONDS
UTILITY
FUNDS*
MSA
Total Project $4,320,000 $313,500 $1,996,500 $510,000 1,500,000
Totals $4,320,000 $313,500 $1,996,500 $510,000 $1,500,000
*Utility Funds include projects costs for watermain (SPRWS), trails (Dakota County), and storm
sewer
Street improvement projects are proposed to be assessed to the benefiting property owners.
Pursuant to the City’s Street Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Policy adopted by the city
council on June 16, 1992, the Marie Avenue Street Improvement Project is proposed to be
assessed to the benefiting property owners as follows:
• All units with a driveway located on a street in the project area in the single family home
portion will be assessed as a street rehabilitation per the Street Rehabilitation and
Reconstruction Policy using a unit assessment. This assessment will include the properties of
Victoria Highlands which accesses via a private street which would be considered a driveway
extension. Additionally, seven homes in Eagle Ridge are proposed for assessment.
• City cost s include bridge repair, storm sewer, pond improvements, and trails in addition
to its share of the overall project. The city is also being assessed for its frontage on Marie
Avenue. Saint Paul Regional Water is responsible for the costs of the watermain
replacement.
Minnesota law requires a minimum of 20% of the project cost to be assessed, if MSA 429 Bonds
are to be sold. Staff is researching options, and will provide additional information at the March
17th meeting. Other financing options include General Obligation Utility Revenue Bonds, and
Municipal State Aid Bonds.
RECOMMENDATION
Based on the 2019 bid prices, TKDA has been highly conservative in this estimate. It is our
hope that the actual bids received will be substantially below the estimate; however, this is a
fluid market. The bids received will be carefully reviewed and presented to Council after they
are opened. Bids can be accepted or rejected at that time.
page 95
Staff recommends that the council approve the plans and specifications for the Marie Avenue
Street Improvements, and authorize the advertisement for bids.
The full plan set is available for review at city hall.
ACTION REQUIRED
If City Council wishes to implement the staff recommendations, pass a motion adopting A
RESOLUTION APPROVING FINAL PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS, AND
AUTHORIZING ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS FOR THE MARIE AVENUE STREET
IMPROVEMENT PROJECT. Passage requires a simple majority vote.
page 96
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION 2020-17
A RESOLUTION APPROVING FINAL PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS,
AND AUTHORIZING ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS FOR
THE MARIE AVENUE STREET IMPROVEMENTS
WHEREAS, the Public Works Director reported that the proposed improvements and
construction thereof were feasible, desirable, necessary, and cost effective, and further reported
on the proposed costs of said improvements and construction thereof; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has heretofore directed the Public Works Director to
proceed with the preparation of plans and specifications thereof; and
WHEREAS, the Public Works Director has prepared plans and specifications for said
improvements and have presented such plans and specifications to the City Council for approval.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED; by the Mendota Heights City Council as
follows:
1. That the plans and specifications for said improvements be and they are hereby in all
respects approved by the City.
2. That the Clerk with the aid and assistance of the Public Works Director be and is hereby,
authorized and directed to advertise for bids for said improvements all in accordance with
the applicable Minnesota Statutes, such as bids to be received at the City Hall of the City
of Mendota Heights by 10:00 A.M., Wednesday, April 15 , 2020, and at which time they
will be publicly opened in the City Council Chambers of the City Hall by the Public
Works Director, will then be tabulated, and will then be considered by the City Council at
its next regular Council meeting.
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Mendota Heights this seventeenth day of March
2020.
CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
Neil Garlock, Mayor
ATTEST
_________________________
Lorri Smith, City Clerk
page 97
Request for City Council Action
DATE: March 17, 2020
TO: Mayor, City Council, and City Administrator
FROM: Wayne Wegener, Police Captain
SUBJECT: Ordinance 555 Amend City Code Section 5-5-4(B)(2) Concerning False
Alarm Penalties
Comment:
Introduction:
The City Council is asked to approve Ordinance 555 amending City Code Title 5, Chapter 5-
4(B)(2) concerning False Alarms Penalties.
Background:
The current City Code, Section 5-5-4(B)(2), provides for the penalties for false alarms other than
false fire alarms. It is proposed to amend this section to cap the amount charged per false alarm
in a calendar year.
A concern is the penalties section of the ordinance does not place a cap on the amount billed per
false alarm call in a calendar year. There are times when businesses and residences require a
police response to a false alarm for reasons that are out of the owner’s control. Although the
City encourages well-functioning alarm systems, the current fee structure could be updated to
avoid potentially excessive fees.
The false alarm fee structure in the Alarm Ordinance Penalties Section [Ordinance 5-5-4(B)(2)]
in the City Code currently reads:
• All Other False Alarms: A penalty shall be paid to the city by the alarm user for each
false alarm, other than a false fire alarm, in excess of three (3) in any calendar year.
That penalt y shall be fifty dollars ($50.00) for the fourth false alarm and shall
increase by twenty five dollars ($25.00) for each succeeding false alarm within the
same calendar year. (Ord. 352, 6-20-2000)
page 98
The proposed change to the ordinance would read as follows:
• All Other False Alarms: A penalty shall be paid to the city by the alarm user for each
false alarm, other than a false fire alarm, in excess of three (3) in any calendar year.
That penalty shall be fifty dollars ($50.00) for the fourth false alarm, seventy-five
dollars ($75.00) for the fifth false alarm and one-hundred dollars ($100.00) for the
sixth and each succeeding false alarm(s) within the same calendar year.
As shown, this change would cap the 6th and subsequent false alarms at $100.00. I believe that
this amount is reasonable, given the nature of the response.
Budget Impact:
The 2020 budget had anticipated $3000 in false alarm charges. The proposed change to the City
Code does not affect any business or person with five or fewer alarms per year. The actual
impact to the budget will not be known until the budgets year is over and the total number of
false alarms per residence and business is finalized.
Recommendation:
Staff recommends that Ordinance 555 be approved which would update Section 5-5-4(B)(2) of the
City Code to the cap the amount charged per alarm in a calendar year.
Action Required:
If the Council concurs, it should, by motion, adopt Ordinance 555 Amending Mendota Heights
City Code Title 5, Chapter 5-4(B)(2) Concerning Penalties False Alarms, and also approve the
publication of the ordinance.
Approval of the Ordinance requires a simple majority vote of the Council. Approval of a Summary
Publication of the Ordinance would require a 4/5th vote of the Council; however, because only
three of the Council are expected to be in attendance at the March 17th meeting, the full ordinance
would instead be published.
page 99
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
ORDINANCE NO. 555
AMENDING MENDOTA HEIGHTS CITY CODE TITLE 5, CHAPTER 5-4(B)(2)
CONCERNING FALSE ALARM PENALTIES
The City Council of the City of Mendota Heights, Minnesota, desires to amend the fee structure for
false alarm penalties under Title 5, Chapter 5-4(B)(2) of the City Code as of March 17, 2020.
The City Council of the City of Mendota Heights hereby ordains:
Section 5-5-4(B)(2) is hereby amended by adding the underlined language and deleting
the strikethrough language as follows:
5-5-4(B)(2): PENALTIES FOR FALSE ALARMS:
B. Penalties
2. All Other False Alarms: A penalty shall be paid to the city by the alarm user for each
false alarm, other than a false fire alarm, in excess of three (3) in any calendar year. That
penalty shall be fifty dollars ($50.00) for the fourth false alarm and shall increase by
twenty five dollars ($25.00), seventy-five dollars ($75.00) for the fifth false alarm and
one-hundred dollars ($100.00) for the sixth and each succeeding false alarm(s) within the
same calendar year.
This Ordinance shall be in effect from and after the date of its passage and publication.
Adopted and ordained into an Ordinance this 17th day of March, 2020.
CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
Neil Garlock, Mayor
ATTEST
___________________________
Lorri Smith, City Clerk
page 100
DATE: March 17, 2020
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Mark McNeill, City Administrator
SUBJECT: Purchase Agreement—2085 Valencour Circle
Comment:
Introduction:
The City Council is asked to approve an agreement for the purchase of real property located at 2085
Valencour Circle. This is a residential property, and is adjacent to Historic Pilot Knob preservation area.
Background:
The Council has previously been made aware of the availability of this property, a .94 acre parcel which
is located at the end of the cul-de-sac of Valencour Circle. It consists of a house, and several
outbuildings. It is on a private well and septic system.
This property is adjacent to the Historic Pilot Knob Preservation area, and would be a good addition to
that property. As a result, the City has been working with Dakota County for the acquisition of the parcel.
The necessary environmental and other due diligence work has been completed, and Dakota County has
negotiated a tentative Purchase Agreement with the owner, Chris Snyder.
The acquisition is complicated by the fact that the City is in the process of applying for a grant from the
State of Minnesota’s Department of Natural Resources to help with the purchase price—that could
provide up to 50% of the cost. However, the grant application period won’t close until the end of this
month, and grant applications won’t begin to be reviewed until July 1. It would then be a couple of
months until it is known whether the City’s application is successful.
In the meantime, the current owner has purchased a replacement property, and so is making payments on
two mortgages. The proposed purchase agreement has factored this in, and will provide for an increased
amount of earnest money as a “bridge loan” to assist the owner until it is known as to whether the grant
application is successful.
Dakota County is a partner in the property’s acquisition. If the grant is unsuccessful, the County would
split the cost of acquisition. The purchase price which has been negotiated is $356,300, if the state grant
is unsuccessful, That closing would be by July 15, 2020.
If the grant application is successful, the purchase price is $359,000, which is based on the need for a
longer closing time—October 15th.
Budget Impact:
The maximum cost to the City is anticipated to be $200,000, with the County or grant picking up the
balance of any amount in excess of that. The $200,000 includes the share of the purchase price, and also
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environmental testing and any necessary clean-up, closing costs, and demolition of buildings which aren’t
otherwise moved or used as practice burns for the Fire Department.
In the short term, the City will need to provide earnest money of $30,000, with an additional $10,000 to
be paid in July.
Funding will come from proceeds of the sale of other City-owned property.
Recommendation:
In order for the City to move ahead with this, the City will need to approve a resolution authorizing the
purchase of the property.
At a future meeting, the City and Dakota County will need to pass a resolution which would authorize
both to enter into a Joint Powers Agreement to authorize the use of City, and County funds to purchase
the property.
Action Required:
If the Council desires to move ahead with the purchase of the Snyder property, it should authorize
payment of up to $40,000 in earnest money, and then adopt the following resolution:
Resolution 2020-21
A Resolution Authorizing the Purchase of Real Property
Located at 2085 Valencour Circle, Mendota Heights, Minnesota
Mark McNeill
City Administrator
page 102
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION 2020-21
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF CERTAIN
REAL PROPERTY LOCATED AT 2085 VALENCOUR CIRCLE
WHEREAS, the City of Mendota Heights is the site of the Historic Pilot Knob
Preservation Area; and
WHEREAS, it is the goal of the City to enhance the site when possible, so as to
preserve the historic and natural heritage that the site has to offer; and
WHEREAS, a residential property which is located within the 112 acre Historic Pilot
Knob area has been offered for sale, and presents a rare opportunity to enlarge the publically-
owned portion of the preservation area; and,
WHEREAS, the City, in partnership with Dakota County, has negotiated the purchase
of the property located at 2085 Valencour Circle, which is legally described as:
Lot 6, Block 3, Pilot Knob Heights, located within SW 1 / 4of the NW 1 / 4 of Section 27,
Township 28 North, Range 23 West; and
WHEREAS, the City will work with the County and State of Minnesota Department of
Natural Resources to pursue a grant to assist in the funding of the acquisition of this property.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of
Mendota Heights that the City, and its partner Dakota County, are hereby authorized to
purchase the property located at 2085 Valencour Circle by executing a Purchase Agreement,
and direct that payment be made of the negotiated purchase price and the payment of escrow in
order to facilitate this purchase.
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Mendota Heights this 17th day of March 2020.
CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
___________________________
Neil Garlock, Mayor
ATTEST:
____________________________
Lorri Smith, City Clerk
page 103
REAL ESTATE PURCHASE AGREEMENT
This Real Estate Purchase Agreement, made and entered into on the ___ day of _____________,
2020, is by and between Christine M. Snyder, a single person and Trustee of the
________________________ (hereinafter called the “Seller”), and the CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS, a
municipal corporation and political subdivision of the State of Minnesota (hereinafter called the “Buyer”).
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, Seller is the owner of certain real property (hereinafter called the “Property”), as
defined below, situated in Dakota County, Minnesota; and
WHEREAS, Seller agrees to sell and Buyer agrees to buy the Property and all improvements
thereon, including any mineral rights and access or other easements benefiting the Property;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises, covenants and agreements stated
in this document, it is agreed by and between Seller and Buyer as follows:
AGREEMENT
1. DEFINITIONS. As used in this Agreement, the following terms shall have the meaning
provided herein:
a. “Agreement” shall mean this Real Estate Purchase Agreement, and any addendums
between Buyer and Seller as of the Effective Date.
b. “Closing” shall mean the process by which Buyer, Seller and Title Company execute all
necessary documents for Seller to sell and Buyer to buy the Property, together with any
other documents required by Seller and the Title Company.
c. “Closing Date” shall mean the date in which Buyer acquires the Property and the terms of
this Agreement are fulfilled. For the purpose of this Agreement, the Closing Date shall be
on or before (subject always to extension as mutually agreed to by the Parties in writing):
i. July 15, 2020, if the City does not receive state Grant funds for the acquisition.
ii. October 15, 2020, if the City does receive state Grant funds for the acquisition.
d. “Conveyed Personal Property” shall mean the following specified personal property Seller
intends to convey to Buyer, if any: ______________________
e. “Due Diligence Deadline” shall mean;
i. July 15, 2020, if the City does not receive state Grant funds for the acquisition.
ii. October 15, 2020, if the City does receive state Grant funds for the acquisition.
f. “Effective Date” shall mean the last date of execution by either of the Parties to this
Agreement.
g. “Environmental Law” shall mean each and every federal, state, and local law, statute,
ordinance, regulation, rule, judicial or administrative order or decree, permit, license,
approval, authorization or similar requirement pertaining to the protection of human health
and safety or the environment.
h. “Escrow” shall mean a pre-payment by the Buyer to the Seller prior to the Buyer acquiring
the Property from the Seller on the following basis:
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i. The sum of Thirty Thousand and No/100 Dollars ($30,000) on or before
________________. If no state Grant is received by the City, the purchase price
for the Property will be reduced by this amount.
ii. An additional sum of Ten Thousand and No/100 Dollars ($10,000) payable on or
before July 15, 2020, if the Buyer is notified by the Minnesota Department of Natural
Resources (DNR) that it has been awarded a state Grant to acquire the Property.
If the Buyer is notified by the DNR that it has been awarded a state Grant to acquire the
Property, the Seller agrees to reimburse the Buyer for the Forty Thousand and No/100
Dollars ($40,000) Escrow amount prior to or at Closing.
j. “Fixtures” shall mean items that are embedded in the land or attached to the building(s)
and cannot be removed without damage to the real property or building(s). Examples are
found in Paragraph 3.
k. “Grant” shall mean a state Natural and Scenic Area Grant, awarded by the Minnesota
Department of Natural Resources, allowing the City to receive up to fifty (50) percent
reimbursement for the cost and eligible associated expenses of acquiring the Property.
l. “Hazardous Substance” shall mean any substance which is (i) defined as a hazardous
substance, hazardous material, hazardous waste, pollutant or contaminant under any
Environmental Law, (ii) a petroleum hydrocarbon, including crude oil or any fraction thereof,
(iii) hazardous, toxic, corrosive, flammable, explosive, infectious, radioactive, carcinogenic,
or reproductive toxicant, (iv) regulated pursuant to any Environmental Law(s), or (v) any
pesticide regulated under state or federal law.
m. “Parties” shall mean Buyer and Seller, as defined above, collectively.
n. “Property” shall mean that certain real estate situated in Dakota County, Minnesota, as
legally described in Exhibit A, and generally depicted in Exhibit A-1, and any improvements
located thereon.
o. “Purchase Price” shall mean:
i. The sum of Three Hundred Fifty-Six Thousand Three Hundred and No/100 Dollars
($356,300) if the City does not receive state Grant funds to acquire the Property.
ii. The sum of Three Hundred Fifty-Nine Thousand and No/100 Dollars ($359,000) if
the City does receive state Grant funds to acquire the Property.
p. “Title Company” shall mean DCA Title Company, located at 7373 147th St W, Suite 161,
Apple Valley, Minnesota.
q. “Warranty Deed” shall mean a deed warranting and conveying good and marketable title
of record to the Property, subject to the following title exceptions:
i. Building and zoning laws, ordinances, state and federal regulations;
ii. Reservation of any mineral rights to the State of Minnesota;
iii. Utility, drainage and public road easements of record; and
iv. The lien of real property taxes and the lien of special assessments and interest
due thereon, if any, payable in the year of Closing by which the terms of this
Agreement are to be paid or assumed by Buyer.
2. FEE OWNER; WARRANTY DEED. Seller represents that Seller is the fee owner of the
Property and hereby agrees to sell the Property to Buyer, free of any liens, exceptions and encumbrances
and except as identified in the definition of Warranty Deed contained herein.
3. FIXTURES AND PERSONAL PROPERTY. Title to the Fixtures and Conveyed Personal
Property passes to Buyer with the Warranty Deed.
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a. All Fixtures, except those excluded below are included in this sale, such as garden bulbs,
plants, shrubs, trees, landscaping, storm windows and inserts, storm doors and inserts,
screens, awnings, window shades, blinds, curtain tracers, drapery rods, mirrors, door
mirrors, cabinets, counter tops, doors, door hardware, mantels, woodwork, attached lighting
fixtures with bulbs, electrical wiring, electric outlets, electrical switches, electrical outlet
plates and switch plates, all plumbing and piping, plumbing fixtures, sump pumps, water
heating systems, heating systems, heating stoves, fireplace inserts, fireplace doors and
screens, built-in humidifiers, built-in air conditioning units, built-in electronic air filters,
automatic garage openers with controls, television antennas, satellite dishes, water
softeners, garbage disposals, built-in trash compactors, built-in ovens and cooking stoves,
hood-fans, intercoms, installed carpeting, built-in work benches, security systems, fences,
retaining walls, kennels, gates, survey monuments, culverts, sheds, gazebos, trellises,
underground irrigation systems, weathervanes, lightning rods, light poles and lights, outdoor
statuary, pumps, mail boxes, mail box posts, and newspaper boxes.
The foregoing notwithstanding, the following Fixtures are excluded from this sale and shall
be removed by Seller prior to the Closing: ______________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________.
b. Any damage to real property that occurs in Seller’s removal of these excluded Fixtures or
Seller’s personal property will be repaired by Seller at its cost prior to the Closing. Buyer
reserves the right to view the Property prior to closing to inspect the Fixtures and to ensure
that the Property is in the same condition as it was on the Effective Date. If Buyer
determines that the condition of the Property has changed, Buyer shall have the rights and
remedies provided in this Agreement, including cancellation of this Agreement.
c. If any of the foregoing excluded Fixtures or Seller’s personal property, including but not
limited to appliances, remain on the Property after Closing, title to those items will be
considered conveyed to the Buyer as of the Closing.
4. TITLE EXAMINATION. Within twenty (20) days after the Effective Date, Seller shall deliver
to Buyer an abstract of title or registered property certificate for the Property. Buyer shall pay the entire
cost for updating the abstract or registered property certificate or the full charge for a title insurance
commitment/binder. Buyer shall be allowed up to twenty (20) days after receipt for examination of the title
documents and to make any objections to title. Buyer shall make any such objection in writing or the
objection shall be deemed to be waived. If any objections are made, Seller shall have sixty (60) days to
make title marketable. Pending correction of title, the payments required by this Agreement shall be
postponed, but upon correction of title, and within twenty (20) days of written notice to Buyer, the Parties
shall perform this Agreement according to its terms.
If title is not marketable and is not made so within sixty (60) days from the date of written objection
as provided above, this Agreement shall, at Buyer’s option, be void and neither party shall be liable for
damages or costs to the other party. Buyer may also continue to Closing on the sale of the Property,
thereby waiving any objections previously submitted.
If Buyer obtains title insurance, Buyer is not waiving the right to obtain a good and marketable title
of record from Seller.
In any event, Seller shall satisfy and discharge all monetary liens and encumbrances (except any
statutory liens for non-delinquent real property taxes) affecting the Property and Seller shall furnish
whatever documents or evidence will be required by the Title Company in order to delete the “printed form”
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or standard exceptions to coverage, including, without limitation, rights of parties in possession, unrecorded
easements and mechanics or material men’s liens or claims of lien, on or before Closing.
5. PAYMENT TERMS. As consideration for the covenants and agreements made herein,
Buyer agrees to pay the Purchase Price to Seller for the Property, including any mortgage pay-off amounts,
payable in cash or equivalent upon the execution and delivery of a W arranty Deed conveying the Property
from Seller to Buyer and other necessary documents on the Closing Date.
6. CLOSING COSTS.
a. Seller shall be responsible for and pay the following costs: updating abstract or Torrens
title records, any corrective title action needed and fees associated with clearing Seller’s
title and Seller’s attorney’s fees.
b. Buyer is responsible for paying the costs for a title commitment and supplements,
examination fee, name search, property inspection, special assessment search, tax and
judgment search, title insurance premium, property inspection, any recording fees for the
Warranty Deed, and one hundred (100) percent of closing fees charged by the Title
Company.
7. SELLER’S CLOSING DOCUMENTS. Seller agrees to execute and deliver the following
documents to Buyer on the Closing Date:
a. A Warranty Deed conveying marketable title to the Property, and any affidavits required to
make the title marketable.
b. Standard Seller’s Affidavit regarding parties in possession.
c. Seller’s Affidavit of no improvements made to the Property within the last 120 days.
d. An accounting of property taxes owed on the Property up to the Closing and proof of
payment or a deduction from the Purchase Price for such taxes.
e. Well disclosure forms and a completed well disclosure certificate as required by MINNESOTA
STATUTES § 103I.235.
f. Any other document(s) requested by Buyer or Title Company to effectuate the closing and
the terms of this Agreement.
8. UTILITIES. All utilities of any nature used in or about the Property shall be read and
adjusted as of the date Seller actually vacates the premises and Seller will pay for all such utility charges
through the date of Seller’s vacation of the premises.
9. TAXES AND SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS. Seller will pay all past due property taxes and
any special assessments levied against the Property, unless otherwise agreed in an attached addendum .
The property taxes that are due and payable in the current year shall be prorated as of the Closing Date,
with Seller obligated to pay taxes through the Closing Date and Buyer responsible for the taxes due after
the Closing Date.
10. SELLER’S WARRANTIES. Seller warrants that:
a. Seller has full power and authority to enter into this Agreement (and the person signing this
Agreement for Seller has full power and authority to sign for Seller and to bind it to this
Agreement) and to sell, transfer and convey all right, title and interest in and to the Property.
page 107
b. The execution of this Agreement will not constitute a breach or default under any
agreement to which Seller is bound and/or to which the Property is subject.
c. There is no suit, action, arbitration, or legal, administrative or other proceeding or injury
pending or threatened against the Property or any portion thereof or pending or threatened
against Seller which could affect Seller’s title to the Property or any portion thereof, affect
the value of the Property, or any portion thereof, or subject an owner of the Property, or
any portion thereof, to liability.
d. There is no lease, license, permit, option, right of first refusal or other agreement, oral or
written, which affects the Property or any portion thereof.
e. Buildings, if any, are entirely within the boundary lines of the Property.
f. There is a right of access to the Property from a public right of way, or that such right of
access shall be provided by Seller to Buyer at the time of conveyance of the Property, in a
form acceptable to Buyer.
g. There has been no labor or material furnished to the Property for which payment has not
been made.
h. There are no present violations of any restrictions relating to the use or improvement of the
Property or any uncured notices which have been served upon Seller by any governmental
agency notifying Seller of any violations of statute, order, ordinance, rule, requirement or
regulation which would affect the Property or any portion thereof.
i. The Property is not subject to a lien for Medical Assistance or other public assistance.
j. Seller has no knowledge, nor does Seller have reason to know, of any condition at, on,
under or related to the Property presently or potentially posing a significant hazard to
human health or the environment (whether or not such condition constitutes a violation of
Environmental Laws).
k. Seller has no knowledge, nor does Seller have reason to know, of any production, use,
treatment, storage, transportation, or disposal of any Hazardous Substance on the
Property or under the Property, nor has there been any release or threatened release of
any Hazardous Substance, pollutant or contaminant into, upon or over the Property or into
or upon ground or surface water at the Property or within the immediate vicinity of the
Property.
l. Seller has no knowledge, nor does Seller have reason to know that any asbestos-
containing materials incorporated into the buildings or interior improvements or equipment
that are part of the Property, if any, nor is there any electrical transformer, fluorescent light
fixture with ballasts or other PCB-containing item on the Property.
m. Seller is in compliance with all laws and regulations in connection with any handling, use,
storage or disposal of Hazardous Substances including the maintenance of all required
permits and approvals.
n. Seller has disclosed to Buyer in writing the location of any individual sewage treatment
systems located on the Property.
o. Seller has disclosed to Buyer in writing the location of any individual wells located on the
Property.
p. To the best of Seller’s knowledge, there is no lead paint used in the construction or
maintenance of any building(s) on the Property.
q. To the best of Seller’s knowledge, methamphetamine production has not occurred on the
Property.
Each of the above representations is material and is relied upon by Buyer. Except insofar as Seller
has advised Buyer in writing to the contrary, each of the above representations shall be deemed to have
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been made as of the Closing and shall survive the Closing. At the Closing, if Buyer so requests, Seller
shall deliver to Buyer a certificate in a form satisfactory to Buyer stating that each of the above
representations is true and correct as of the Closing.
If, before the Closing, Seller discovers any information or facts that would materially change these
warranties and representations, Seller shall immediately give notice to Buyer of those facts and information.
If any of the foregoing representations and warranties ceases to be true before the Closing, Seller will
promptly remedy the problem, at Seller’s sole cost and expense, upon receipt of notice by Buyer. If the
problem is not remedied before Closing, Buyer may elect to either (a) terminate this Agreement in which
case Buyer shall have no obligation to purchase the Property or (b) defer the Closing until such problem
has been remedied. Buyer’s election in this regard shall not constitute a waiver of Buyer’s rights in regard
to any loss or liability suffered as a result of a representation or warranty not being true nor shall it constitute
a waiver of any other remedies provided in this Agreement or by law or equity.
11. CONDITIONS PRECEDENT. In addition to the title examination, the purchase of the
Property by Buyer is contingent upon:
a. The Mendota Heights City Council adopting a resolution authorizing Buyer’s purchase of
the Property from Seller and payment of the Escrow; and
b. The Mendota Heights City Council and the Dakota County Board of Commissioners each
adopting a resolution approving a Joint Powers Agreement authorizing the use of City and
County funds to acquire the Property; and
c. The Buyer being notified by the DNR as to the status of the state Grant application and if
the Buyer is approved to receive a Grant, the Grant agreement between the Buyer and the
DNR is fully executed prior to Closing.
d. The completion of due diligence by Buyer on or before the Due Diligence Deadline and
Buyer determining in its sole discretion that the condition of the Property is acceptable to
it. Seller agrees that Buyer shall have the right to inspect and investigate the Property at
reasonable times and to perform any tests it deems necessary, including tests to evaluate
the environmental condition of the Property. Buyer shall coordinate any such inspection to
accommodate the schedule of Seller, who shall not unreasonably withhold permission to
inspect or investigate.
If the above contingencies are not satisfied, this Agreement shall, at Buyer’s option, be void and
neither party shall be liable for damages to the other party. Seller shall additionally pay back the Escrow
deposited to it by Buyer. If Buyer has not terminated this Agreement under this Section 11 by the Due
Diligence Deadline, the Parties may proceed to Closing.
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12. CLOSING. The Closing shall occur on or before the Closing Date at the Title Company’s
office. The time of day will be scheduled by the Title Company so as to be mutually acceptable to Buyer
and Seller. Seller and Buyer may mutually agree in writing to alter the Closing Date.
13. POSSESSION. Seller shall deliver possession of the Property no later than the time set
by the Title Company for the Closing in the same condition as it was on the Effective Date, ordinary wear
and tear excepted, free and clear of the rights or claims of any other party.
14. RISK OF LOSS. Until the completion of Closing and delivery of possession of the Property,
all risk of loss is on Seller. If the Property is damaged prior to Closing, Seller shall give Buyer notice within
five (5) business days after such damage has occurred. The notice shall include Seller’s proposal for
repairing the damage. From the date that Buyer receives Seller’s notice, Buyer shall have three (3)
business days to inspect the Property and an additional two (2) business days to determine if the damages
and Seller’s proposal for repairs are acceptable to Buyer. If Buyer does not accept Seller’s proposal for
repairs within the five (5) business day period, this Agreement shall be void and Seller shall return all Escrow
money to Buyer.
15. REMEDIES UPON DEFAULT. In the event that Seller defaults in the performance of any
of its obligations under this Agreement, Buyer shall, in addition to any and all other remedies provided in
this Agreement or at law or in equity, have the right of specific performance against Seller. In the event
that Buyer defaults in the performance of any of its obligations under this Agreement, Seller shall have, as
its sole and exclusive remedy, the right to cancel this Agreement as permitted by MINNESOTA STATUTES §§
559.21 and 559.217.
16. NO BROKER’S COMMISSION. Buyer has not used a real estate broker in connection with
this Agreement or the transaction contemplated by this Agreement and the Parties agree that Buyer is not
responsible for any portion of a broker’s commission or finder’s fee related to Seller. In the event that Seller
has used a broker or any person asserts a claim for a broker's commission or finder's fee related to Seller,
that Seller will indemnify and hold Buyer harmless from and against the claim and this indemnification shall
survive Closing or any earlier termination of this Agreement.
17. WAIVER OF DISCLOSURE. Unless otherwise required herein, Buyer waives the written
disclosures required under MINNESOTA STATUTES §§ 513.52 to 513.60.
18. MISCELLANEOUS.
a. Performance. The Parties hereto agree that time is of the essence in the performance of
this Agreement.
b. Notices. Notices to be given under this Agreement shall be in writing and sent by registered
or certified mail, addressed to the Parties at the following addresses:
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With respect to Buyer:
Mark McNeill, City Administrator
City of Mendota Heights
1101 Victoria Curve
Mendota Heights, MN 55118
With respect to Seller:
Christine M. Snyder
Address
c. Non-Joint Venture. The Parties agree that nothing contained herein shall be considered a
partnership or joint venture undertaken by the Parties.
d. Minnesota Law. This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Minnesota.
Venue for all legal proceedings arising out of this Agreement, or breach thereof, shall be in
the state or federal court with competent jurisdiction in Dakota County, Minnesota.
e. Representation by Counsel. Seller understands that Buyer and the Dakota County
Attorney’s Office does not represent Seller in this matter. Seller has had an opportunity to
review the terms of this Agreement with Seller’s own legal counsel, whether Seller has
elected to consult with counsel or not. Seller has read and understands the terms of this
Agreement and agrees to be bound by the terms of this Agreement.
f. Entire Agreement. This Agreement, along with any exhibits, appendices, addendums,
schedules, and written amendments hereto, encompasses the entire agreement of the
Parties, and supersedes all previous understandings and agreements between the Parties,
whether oral or written.
g. Amendments. Any amendments or modifications to this Agreement shall be in writing and
shall be executed by the same Parties who executed the original Agreement or their
successors.
h. Severability. Each provision of this Agreement is severable from any other provision of this
Agreement. Should any provision of this Agreement for any reason be unenforceable, the
balance of the Agreement shall nonetheless be of full force and effect.
i. Headings. The headings used in this Agreement are for convenience of reference only
and shall not operate or be construed to alter or affect the meaning of any of the provisions
in this Agreement.
j. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, each of which shall be
deemed an original and which together shall constitute one and the same agreement.
19. ADDENDUM(S). Addendum No. 1, providing additional terms, specifications, covenants,
representations, and agreements, is attached hereto and is incorporated by reference as though
fully state in this Agreement.
-This space is intentionally blank-
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IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, the Parties hereto have caused this instrument to be executed the
day and year first recited herein.
SELLER:
___________________________________
Christine M. Snyder
Date of Signature___________________
BUYER:
_________________________________
Neil Garlock, Mayor
Date of Signature___________________
_________________________________
Lorri Smith, City Clerk
Date of Signature___________________
Approved as to form:
________________________________
Andrew Pratt, City Attorney
Date of Signature __________________
Approved by City Council
Resolution No. 2020-21
page 112
EXHIBIT A
LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPERTY
LOT 6, BLOCK 3, PILOT KNOB HEIGHTS
LOCATED WITHIN
SW 1/4 OF THE NW 1/4 OF SECTION 27, TOWNSHIP 28 NORTH, RANGE 23 WEST
page 113
EXHIBIT A-1
GENERAL DEPICTION OF THE PROPERTY
page 114
City of Mendota Heights
Project B2000820
February 7, 2020
Page 6
B.1. Site Location
We accessed various documents and online sources to obtain Site location information. The following is a
summary our findings:
Address: 2085 Valencour Circle
City: Mendota Heights
County: Dakota
State: Minnesota
Property Identification Number: 27-57600-03-060
Construction Year: 1888
Owner: Martin Valencour Jr., and Christine M. Snyder
Legal Description: Lot 6, Block 3, Pilot Knob Heights
Latitude: 44.880 North
Longitude: 93.164 West
Section, Township, Range: SW 1/4 of the NW 1/4 of the SW 1/4 of Section 27, Township 28 North,
Range 23 West
Elevation: 890 feet above mean sea level
Size: 0.94 acres
A Site location map and Site sketch are attached in Appendices A and B, respectively. Information
obtained from the Dakota County Property Information web page is attached in Appendix C.
B.1.a. Geology
The unconsolidated sedimentary deposit in the Site vicinity are Des Moines Lobe mixed outwash
deposits, which consist of sand, loamy sand and gravel (Hobbs et al., 1990).
The uppermost bedrock unit in the Site vicinity is the Middle Ordovician, Decorah Shale (Mossler, 1990).
The Decorah Shale is described as a green, Calcareous shale with thin interbeds of limestone. The depth
to bedrock in the Site vicinity is approximately 50 feet to 100 feet below land surface (Bloomgren
et al., 1990).
B.1.b. Hydrogeology
The depth to groundwater in the vicinity of the Site ranges from approximately 40 feet below land
surface. According to published geologic information, the regional groundwater flow direction within the
unconsolidated deposits in the Site vicinity is generally northwest (Palen, 1990). However, the local
direction of groundwater flow may be affected by nearby streams, lakes, wells, and/or wetlands and may
vary seasonally.
page 115
HORSE BARN
APPROXIMATE
SITE BOUNDARY
LP TANK
DOG KENNEL
DOG KENNEL SHOP
GARAGE
WELL (UNDER DECK)
SEPTIC TANKS HOUSE
STORAGE SHED
PILOT KNOB
PRESERVATION
SITE
RURAL
RESIDENTIAL
H
I
G
HW
A
Y
5
5
VALENCOUR C
IRCLE
FORMER
HORSE
PASTURE
HOLDING TANK
Project No:
B2000820
Drawn By:
Date Drawn:
Checked By:
Last Modified: 1/31/20
Drawing No:
F:\2020\B2000820\CAD\B2000820.dwg,Phase I,2/4/2020 6:05:44 AM
B2000820
LAO
1/31/20
KJH
Valencour Property
2085 Valencour Circle
Mendota Heights, Minnesota
Site Sketch
braunintertec.com
952.995.2000
Minneapolis, MN 55438
11001 Hampshire Avenue S
N
0
SCALE: 1" = 60'
60'30'
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