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2022-12-06 City Council Minutes CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY STATE OF MINNESOTA Minutes of the Regular Meeting Held Tuesday, December 6, 2022 Pursuant to due call and notice thereof,the regular meeting of the City Council, City of Mendota Heights, Minnesota was held at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve, Mendota Heights, Minnesota. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Levine called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Councilors Duggan, Paper, Mazzitello, and Miller, were also present. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Council, the audience, and staff recited the Pledge of Allegiance. AGENDA ADOPTION Mayor Levine presented the agenda for adoption. Councilor Miller moved adoption of the agenda. Councilor Mazzitello seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 CONSENT CALENDAR Mayor Levine presented the consent calendar and explained the procedure for discussion and approval. Councilor Mazzitello moved approval of the consent calendar as presented,pulling items E, N, and O. a. Approval of November 15, 2022 City Council Minutes b. Approval of November 15, 2022 Council Work Session Minutes c. Acknowledgement of September 21, 2022 Airport Relations Commission Meeting Minutes d. Acknowledgement of October 12, 2022 Natural Resources Commission Meeting Minutes f. Approval of Personnel Policy Amendment Regarding Employee Vacation Leave g. Approval of City Council Regular Meeting Dates h. Accept Police Officer Resignation and Authorize Recruitment i. Accept Probationary Firefighter Resignation j. Approval of Tobacco License Renewals k. Approval of Massage Therapist License 1. Approval of 2023 Seasonal Pay Matrix m. Resolution 2022-92 Designating Polling Locations for 2023 n. Reseiutien 2022 93 A.aept;.,,-, of Dakota(`.,ffaty All 14aza-.a Mitigation Dla 6. ReseltAiefi 2022 nn A,eepting Tl.,fi4ie f of t e Cess Family F.,,,,,d do p. Approval of a Joint Powers Agreement between the Cities of Lilydale and Mendota Heights for Storm Sewer Inspection, Maintenance, Illicit Discharge Inspection Services q. Approval of October 2022 Treasurer's Report r. Approval of Claims List Councilor Paper seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 PULLED CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS E) RESOLUTION 2022-91 CITY ADVISORY COMMISSION REAPPOINTMENTS Mayor Levine recognized the expiring terms of Commission members and thanked them for their service to the community. She thanked those that have expressed interest in continuing to serve. Councilor Mazzitello moved to adopt RESOLUTION 2022-91 CITY ADVISORY COMMISSION REAPPOINTMENTS. Councilor Miller seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 N) RESOLUTION 2022-93 ADOPTION OF DAKOTA COUNTY ALL-HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN Councilor Duggan noted that this is a long and detailed report and perhaps there should be a workshop scheduled to further discuss this information. He noted an error in relation to the terrorist impacts in Mendota Heights which was off by one. City Administrator Cheryl Jacobson noted that she has reviewed that error and will pass it on to the County. Councilor Miller moved to adopt RESOLUTION 2022-93 ADOPTION OF DAKOTA COUNTY ALL- HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN. Councilor Paper seconded the motion. Further discussion: Councilor Duggan suggested that his idea also be noted to further discuss this in workshop. Mayor Levine noted that there is a 45-day public comment period and perhaps that discussion aligns with the time period for comments. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 December 6, 2022 Mendota Heights City Council Page 2 of 10 O) RESOLUTION 2022-94 ACCEPTING DONATION FROM THE COSS FAMILY FOUNDATION Councilor Duggan noted the significant contributions that the Coss family has donated to the City. He believed that something more should be done to recognize those contributions. Councilor Duggan moved to adopt RESOLUTION 2022-94 ACCEPTING DONATION FROM THE COSS FAMILY FOUNDATION. Councilor Miller seconded the motion. Further discussion: Councilor Miller commented that the Coss family has been exceedingly generous to the City, its residents, and its institutions on many occasions. He echoed the sentiments of sending the family a thank you. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 PUBLIC COMMENTS Frank Stifter, 1260 Sylvandale Road, noted the potential proposed path on Sylvandale Road which was very concerning. He commented that it seems a big change for a problem that seems to be fairly small related to bicycles and pedestrians. He noted that the road is not heavily trafficked and does have pedestrian traffic but has not recalled any difficult encounters between vehicles on the street when bicycling or walking. He stated that he and his neighbors are concerned with the potential of losing on street parking if a path were to be marked out on the street. He asked the city to consider the streets of St. Clair and Margaret in St. Paul as examples and stated that these streets have stenciled bicycles and there is no designated path which would preserve the parking on the street and alert vehicles of the potential for bicycles. Resident Victor Sherbanenko stated that he is also present to discuss the potential bike trail. He stated that the mailing was not very specific and lacked detail. He noted that it seems like a poorly thought-out plan, and he has not spoken with any neighbors that support the concept. He agreed that there is pedestrian activity on the road and also could not recall any conflicts. Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek stated that the pavement is failing on Sylvandale and sent out a questionnaire asking the neighborhood what they want. He stated that there is nothing proposed for a path at this time and the street could be reconstructed as it exists. He noted that they could also look at the different options mentioned in the mailing. He stated that they will review the results from the questionnaire and hold a public meeting to discuss those results and determine the best option for the street project. He explained that homeowners are assessed a portion of the cost for a street project,where or not there is a trail. He noted that a trail is not specifically assessed to adjacent property owners. He noted that he would also be happy to speak with residents individually if desired. Martin Fisher commented that he and his wife moved here 22 years ago and love their street and yard and would not want to lose that for a bike path. He stated that parking is needed on that street. He stated that he does support maintenance and repair of the existing roadway. December 6, 2022 Mendota Heights City Council Page 3 of 10 Kate Fisher, 1324 Sylvandale Road, commented that she found the letter to be upsetting in that part of her yard may be taken away. She stated that they have a strong need for on street parking. She commented that there are no conflicts between vehicles and pedestrians. Robert Hanson, teacher at Two Rivers High School, commented that even though the communities have done great in restricting access to vaping for youth, it continues to be a problem for the youth. He stated that his youth group created a video against vaping that will be premiered on January 2nd at 5:30 p.m. at the school. He invited the Council and Police Chief to attend. Mayor Levine recognized the work the group has done that has inspired the community to be tobacco free and tobacco 21. Councilor Duggan thanked Mr. Hanson for the great work he continues to do. PRESENTATIONS There were no presentations. PUBLIC HEARING A) ORDINANCE 574—APPROVING AMENDMENTS TO THE FEE SCHEDULE FOR 2023 City Clerk Christine Lusian explained that the Council was being asked to hold a public hearing and amend the fee schedule for 2023. Councilor Duggan noted on page 387, under public data, and asked if that fee would be in addition to the charge per copy. City Clerk Christine Lusian provided additional details on the allowance for the City to charge for actual time for digital requests. Councilor Duggan asked the approximate research time of staff for these types of requests. City Clerk Christine Lusian noted that some requests are easy and not subject to charge while others are substantial. Councilor Paper noted page 395, where the senior pass is eliminated for the Par 3 and asked what that is being done. City Clerk Christine Lusian replied that the change is recommended by the Parks and Recreation Commission. Parks and Recreation Coordinator Meredith Lawrence replied that this was the second year with the pass. She stated that the first year no passes were sold and this year only four passes were sold, therefore staff believes their effort could be better used to market the course to seniors. December 6, 2022 Mendota Heights City Council Page 4 of 10 Councilor Paper asked how the card was promoted and what would be done different to promote the course for seniors. Parks and Recreation Coordinator Meredith Lawrence commented that staff spent between 45 and 50 hours on the implementation of the pass, which is a lot compared to the engagement received. She reviewed the different marketing that was done to promote the pass. She stated that many seniors that she spoke with preferred to use the ten round punch card. Councilor Paper asked if the number of uses for the senior passes were tracked. Parks and Recreation Coordinator Meredith Lawrence confirmed that information was tracked for a total of 177 rounds between the four passes, providing more specific information on the number of rounds played by each pass holder. Councilor Paper commented that he does not feel that the pass has been given enough time but recognized the amount of staff time spent offering this pass. He stated that clearly two of the pass holders were heavily using the pass. Parks and Recreation Coordinator Meredith Lawrence stated that they are going to start a senior golf league this spring as a way to engage seniors. She stated that they could attempt the pass for another year, but it would be nice to see more of a return on the staff time. Councilor Paper commented that he would like to see one more attempt, recognizing that there was a late start the first year and only four people were reached this year. He stated that perhaps they could reach out to the pass holders to determine how participation could be increased. Mayor Levine commented that she would like to put a pin in that concept as the entire fee schedule will go into a public hearing and then discussion can continue. Councilor Duggan asked if the senior pass is only available for use on evenings. Parks and Recreation Coordinator Meredith Lawrence reviewed the eligibility for the pass and the hours it can be used. Councilor Paper stated that next year he would like to see an increase for priorities four and five for the field use. Councilor Miller moved to open the public hearing. Councilor Duggan seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 There being no one coming forward to speak, Councilor Duggan moved to close the public hearing. Councilor Mazzitello seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 December 6, 2022 Mendota Heights City Council Page 5 of 10 Nays: 0 Councilor Mazzitello commented that he hears the comments of Councilor Paper but also hears the number of restrictions on the pass, noting that perhaps there would be more success if there were less restrictions on the pass. He stated that the Parks and Recreation Commission and City staff both recommend discontinuing the pass and therefore he would support that recommendation. Councilor Duggan stated that he agrees that there are a number of restrictions on the pass. He noted that he has played on other small courses in the area and understands the concepts of a season pass. He noted that if you are trying to increase interest in the golf course, which staff has done a great job of in recent years, he would wonder what changes should be made to the pass and whether that should be left to the Parks and Recreation Commission. Mayor Levine agreed noting the recommendation from the Parks and Recreation Commission. She stated that the pass does not seem to have traction, whether that is because of the restrictions or because there is more favor for the punch card. She stated that she would favor continuing to promote the punch card rather than the senior pass. She stated that she does like the concept of adding a senior league, as leagues are very popular at the course. She commented that the clubhouse is an underutilized City asset where people can gather. She noted that there is opportunity to expand the use of the clubhouse for people of all ages. She stated that she would support the recommendation to eliminate the senior pass and allow staff to focus on other efforts. Councilor Miller commented that he trusts the recommendation of staff and the Commission. He stated that there are also reasons why the parameters were put on the senior pass and believed that if there were changes that could be made to those restrictions, he believes that those would have been brought forward. He stated that he will be supporting the recommendation from staff and the Commission. Mayor Levine confirmed consensus with elimination of the senior pass. Councilor Miller commented that if staff believes that there would be benefit in bringing the senior pass back in the future, he would be open to that. Councilor Paper commented that next year he will propose to raise the fees for priority four and five for field use and noted that he just wanted to provide that information now,prior to the workshop in 2023. Councilor Miller commented that he also agrees with Councilor Paper. He stated that costs continue to increase, and he would support increasing the rates for others outside the community to use the City fields. Mayor Levine noted that it is a complicated discussion, as SALVO is a priority four and its members are 50 percent Mendota Heights residents. She agreed that it should be discussed in workshop in 2023. Councilor Duggan commented that it was interesting that multiple members of the Council mentioned that they support the recommendations from advisory bodies but that is not always the case. December 6, 2022 Mendota Heights City Council Page 6 of 10 Councilor Miller explained that in this case he believes the appropriate recommendation was made related to the senior pass and he supports that recommendation. He agreed that it was a fair point that the Council does not always vote in the same direction as a recommending body. Councilor Mazzitello moved to approve ORDINANCE NO. 574 AMENDING THE FFE SCHEDULE. Councilor Duggan seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 Councilor Mazzitello moved to approve SUMMARY PUBLICATION OF THE ORDINANCE NO. 574 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE FEE SCHEDULE. Councilor Duggan seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 NEW AND UNFINISHED BUSINESS A) RESOLUTION 2022-90 APPROVING FINAL 2023 TAX LEVY AND FISCAL YEAR 2023 BUDGET Finance Director Kristen Schabacker explained that the Council was being asked to adopt the final budget and levy for Fiscal Year 2023. Councilor Duggan referenced Item 4620 related to street lighting and asked for more information. Finance Director Kristen Schabacker stated that there were three projects proposed for streetlights and provided a summary of those details. Councilor Duggan noted the budget of$113,000 but noted a percentage change of zero. He commented that considering the productivity and work of the Finance Director, the Council is very pleased that she continues to represent the City. He noted that he does not see proposed expenditures proposed for the upcoming designs/changes for the Police Department and City Hall. Finance Director Kristen Schabacker replied that this is the operating budget for City Hall and not the budget for that particular project. Councilor Paper referenced the parks and trails mentioned on page 444 and asked why the boards are proposed to be replaced at Wentworth for the ice rink. Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek stated that staff recently walked all the parks to develop the capital improvement plan and those boards are in rough shape. He noted that they are hoping to salvage some of the posts. He stated that it has been identified as a potential need for that year but could possibly be pushed back as well. Mayor Levine commented that the City has a fine structure, using the example of after the fact permits. She stated that she would like the Council to discuss how people are fined for after the fact permits in the December 6, 2022 Mendota Heights City Council Page 7 of 10 upcoming year. She recognized the effort that staff has put forth to alert residents to the process and permits that would be necessary. She stated that if people do not follow the rules, it seems that they get a little slap on the wrist and would like to see that increased. Councilor Duggan stated that he would be cautious about moving forward with that type of increase until they have further educated residents about the ordinance changes that have been implemented. Mayor Levine agreed but noted that it is also something she would like to explore through further discussion in the future. Councilor Mazzitello stated that perhaps that could be discussed when the increase in field use fees are discussed. Councilor Duggan noted that a few break the rules and would not want to see others penalized in return for some not following the rules. Councilor Miller moved to open the public hearing. Councilor Mazzitello seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 There being no one coming forward to speak, Councilor Duggan moved to close the public hearing. Councilor Mazzitello seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 Mayor Levine commented that this was a great budget process and noted that the City continues to save for the future. She also recognized that the City is very fiscally responsible while providing high quality services. She was proud that they were able to present a budget with modest increases in this time of inflation and increasing costs. Councilor Mazzitello moved to approve RESOLUTION 2022-90 APPROVING FINAL 2022 TAX LEVY COLLECTIBLE IN 2023 AND ADOPTING PROPOSED BUDGET FOR 2023. Councilor Duggan seconded the motion. Further discussion: Councilor Duggan noted on page 423 there is a line item for tennis lessons but did not see an item for pickleball lessons. Parks and Recreation Coordinator Meredith Lawrence noted that item is for supplies that may be necessary and can be used for pickleball as well. She confirmed that there is funding available within the budget for pickleball lessons as well. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS December 6, 2022 Mendota Heights City Council Page 8 of 10 City Administrator Cheryl Jacobson announced upcoming openings on advisory commissions and provided details on how interested parties can apply. She also announced upcoming activities and events. COUNCIL,COMMENTS Councilor Duggan asked for an update on the indoor pickleball court that will be occupying a building in the business court. Community Development Director Tim Benetti replied that the owner of the site, and applicant for the project, has not yet started the project and is exploring the option of requesting outdoor recreational uses in that zoning district. He noted that would allow for outdoor courts as well. He stated that request could come forward in January, but some work could begin on that site very soon. He confirmed that permits have not yet been pulled for the indoor work. Councilor Duggan wished everyone blessings for the holiday season and games for those involved in games. Councilor Paper thanked the residents that spoke from the Sylvandale neighborhood as it is good to hear from residents. He also thanked staff for explaining that the letter had the sole purpose of soliciting input from residents on what they want from the project. He thanked Mr. Hanson and reminded residents that the students will be debuting their anti-vaping video on January 2nd at Two Rivers High School at 5:30 p.m. Councilor Miller stated that in 2017 a small group of residents put together the first annual Greater Mendota Pub Crawl,which has grown since that time celebrating local businesses and establishments. He stated that the event will take place Saturday, December 171h and noted that additional information can be found on social media. He stated that there will be designated drivers to help residents celebrate local businesses. He encouraged residents to participate. Councilor Mazzitello echoed the comments of appreciation for resident input from Councilor Paper. He noted that the process to solicit resident input is important to gather information from those that are impacted by projects in order to provide the best design. He invited residents to apply to serve on advisory commissions, noting that all members of the Council have served on advisory commissions. He thanked the Public Works Department for continuing to provide quick, efficient, and thorough service when it snows. ADJOURN Councilor Duggan moved to adjourn. Councilor Mazzitello seconded the motion. Further discussion: Mayor Levine commented that Coffee with the Council will be held January 14th at 9 a.m. at the Copperfield. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 December 6, 2022 Mendota Heights City Council Page 9 of 10 Mayor Levine adjourned the meeting at 7:34 p.m. Step anie A. Levine Mayor ,ATTEST: Christin S, sign, City Clerk December G,2022 Mendota Heights City Council Page 10 of 10