2004-08-17 City Council minutesPage No. 1
August 17, 2004
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
DAKOTA COUNTY
STATE OF MINNESOTA
Minutes of the Regular Meeting
Held Tuesday, August 17, 2004
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the regular meeting of the City Council, City of Mendota
Heights, Minnesota was held at 7:30 o'clock p.m. at City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve, Mendota
Heights, Minnesota.
CALL TO ORDER Acting Mayor Schneeman called the meeting to order at
7:30 p.m. The following members were present:
Councilmembers Duggan, Krebsbach, Schneeman and
Vitelli. Mayor Huber had informed Council that he would
be late.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Council, the audience and staff recited the Pledge of
Allegiance.
AGENDA ADOPTION Councilmember Krebsbach clarified that the revised agenda
showed the addition of a new item, the Lexington Avenue
trail.
Councilmember Duggan moved adoption of the agenda as
revised for the meeting.
Councilmember Krebsbach seconded the motion.
Ayes: 4
Nays: 0
APPROVAL OF MINUTES Councilmember Duggan moved approval of the minutes of
the regular meeting held on August 3, 2004, as amended.
Councilmember Krebsbach seconded the motion.
Ayes: 4
Nays: 0
CONSENT CALENDAR The following items were pulled for separate discussion:
d. Park & Recreation Commission Minutes
Acting Mayor Schneeman stated that Greg Springer,
President of Mendota Heights Athletic Association
(MHAA) gave an excellent presentation to the
Commission. She is pleased that he will continue to be in
contact with the Commission in relation to youth programs.
CONTRACT WITH
HLB TAUTGES REDPATH
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Page No. 2
August 17, 2004
Councilmember Krebsbach noted that a related item that is
also part of the Consent Calendar is the Council's annual
contribution of $10,000 to MHAA.
Councilmember Krebsbach stated that she supports up to
$15,000 for consultant services to help establish the new
accounting procedures now required by GASB 34 that is
federally mandated.
Finance Director Schabacker stated that in addition to what
is provided in the City's regular audit, there will be
government -wide financial statements that includes all of
the City's infrastructure.
Councilmember Duggan stated that one of his concerns is
safety and training. It is his understanding that the vendor
is prepared to offer training. No additional insurance is
required. The reason for this purchase is an investment
against annual costs to have these services performed for
the City.
Councilmember Vitelli asked if the price of $9,000 is a
good price. City Administrator Danielson stated that in
checking eBay, staff was unable to find a comparison, but
Snap -On Tools sells this equipment for more than double
the price obtained by the City. The equipment is in
excellent condition.
Councilmember Duggan stated that in the process of
determining the size sign being approved, it was discovered
that there is no limit as to the number of signs allowed in
the B4 District. He would like the Council to work with
staff to review the sign ordinance in that regard.
Secondly, he would recommend the front of the building
also be painted white, as well as the pillars.
Acting Mayor Schneeman asked the time frame the
illuminated sign can be on.
Councilmember Krebsbach stated that it can be on all night.
She added that she would abstain from voting on this item
because she did not vote to approve the PUD change for
this signage. She stated that her vote will be for all items
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Page No. 3
August 17, 2004
on the Consent Calendar with the exception of the Mendota
Plaza sign for Tuesday Morning.
Councilmember Duggan recommended that a condition be
added to the approval of the item in this consent calendar
that the illuminated sign shall be extinguished at midnight
until the next dusk.
Police Chief Aschenbrener stated that this ordinance allows
the Police Department to shut down drub labs permanently
once they are found and dismantled. No one would be able
to use the property until hazardous material cleanup meets
the standards of the Minnesota Department of Health. He
added that no labs have been found in the City to date.
Councilmember Krebsbach stated that she wanted the item
pulled for public information and commended Chief
Aschenbrener on the clarity in which the issue was
presented. This has been more of a problem in out -state
Minnesota.
Councilmember Vitelli asked if a lien can be placed on the
property to pay for the cost of cleanup and if this provision
is clearly spelled out in the ordinance. Chief Aschenbrener
stated that it is his understanding the City has the authority
to place a lien on the property.
City Attorney Schleck stated that such a provision is not
specifically stated in the ordinance, but other ordinance
provisions allow the City to recover costs.
Councilmember Duggan referred to page 3 and asked for
clarification of the word "precursor." Chief Aschenbrener
stated that a precursor is an item that goes into the
manufacture of an illegal drug. Many are common
household items or items sold over the counter.
Councilmember Vitelli commended the Police Department
on its handling of recent burglaries and is receiving
outstanding publicity. Chief Ashenberger reported that the
Tip Line is open at 651- 255 -1170. Anyone who notices
something strange or has information is urged to call that
number or the police station at 651 -450 -1111.
Mayor Huber arrived at the meeting.
Page No. 4
August 17, 2004
Chief Aschenbrener reported that the signal at Highway
110 and Highway 13 may cause some traffic stacking
problems, but is being monitored by Mn/DOT.
Councilmember Vitelli moved approval of the consent
calendar for the meeting, revised to move item j. to the
regular agenda, along with authorization for execution of
any necessary documents contained therein:
a. Acknowledgement of the August 3, 2004 City Council
Minutes as amended, and Airport Relations Workshop
Minutes
b. Acknowledgement of the July 14, 2004 Airport
Relations Commission Minutes
c. Acknowledgement of the July 30, 2004 Cable
Commission Minutes
d. Acknowledgement of the August 10, 2004 Parks &
Recreation Commission Minutes
e. Acknowledgement of the July 2004 Treasurer Report
f. Authorization of the Mayor to sign the professional
service contract with HLB Tautges Redpath
g. Authorization for payment of the 2004 MHAA
contingency
h. Authorization for purchase order for Tire Changer, Tire
Balancer and Brake Lathe purchase
i. Authorization for a building permit for sign cabinet
replacements at Courtyard by Marriott at 1352
Northland Drive
j. Authorization to permanently appoint Firefighters
k. Personnel Code Issue
1. Adoption of Resolution No. 04-56 "A
RESOLUTION APPROVING A SPECIAL
PERMIT TO TURNERS GYMNASTICS CENTER
FOR TEMPORARY SIGN
in. Adoption of Council policy on City Elections
n. Adoption of Resolution No. 04-57 "RESOLUTION
APPOINTING 2004 PRIMARY ELECTION
JUDGES
o. School Resource Officer
p. Clandestine Lab Ordinance
q. Approval of Contractor List
r. Approval of Claims List
Page No. 5
August 17, 2004
Councilmember Schneeman seconded the motion.
Ayes: 5
Nays: 0
MENDOTA PLAZA SIGN Mayor Huber asked if the Tuesday Morning sign would be
the only sign at Mendota Plaza that would have a condition
of a timer for illumination. His concern is that all of the
business signs be handled consistently.
Councilmember Duggan answered that he believes there is
also a limit on the hardware store. There was a discussion
about hours for lighted signs. He suggested the motion be
adopted as presented and ask staff to report to the Council
on what controlled lighting is in place for signs at Mendota
Plaza.
Councilmember Duggan moved the resolution as it stands
for authorization for a building permit for a sign at
Mendota Plaza for Tuesday Morning
Councilmember Vitelli seconded the motion
Ayes: 4
Nays: 0
Abstain: 1 (Krebsbach)
SCHOOL DISTRICT
PRESENTATION School Superintendent John Longtin, School District 197,
introduced three of the School Board members present to
explain the school bond referendum set for vote on
Tuesday, September 14, 2004: Dr. Lonnie Bennett, Chair;
Board Members Kent Moglur and Max Saucedo.
Mr. Moglur stated that the bond referendum request will be
for $56 million to be invested in buildings. It will primarily
be directed at the high school and five elementary schools
in the district. There is also a $10 million technology levy
that is part of the request to maintain an infrastructure to
keep current with technology needs. The technology levy
would equate to approximately $100 per year per student.
Building maintenance items would be approximately $31
million of the $56 million. The schools identified for
maintenance work have had no significant infrastructure
investment in the buildings in over 40 years. The age of the
buildings range from 34 to 70 years old. Some of the
buildings have the original heating and ventilating systems.
The intent is to not build another new school in the district
for at least 10 to 20 years. The enrollment in the district
Page No. 6
August 17, 2004
has been stable and not varied from 10 years ago. This
investment will also construct spaces (no addition of square
footage) that will meet particular needs, such as special
education and storage spaces for special equipment needed
for special programs. Approximately half of the investment
would be used at Henry Sibley High School for structural
and instructional needs. The average size classroom at
Sibley is 600 square feet; the state recommendation is 850
to 900 square feet. There will not be a significant increase
to the school footprint but some addition to common areas.
The timing of the bond issue fits well with current low
interest rates, which makes it attractive to do this work
before it becomes more expensive.
Councilmember Krebsbach asked if air conditioning would
be added to any of the buildings. Board Member Secedo
stated that air conditioning would be added to the
elementary schools with the goal to use those buildings for
extended programs during the day. Air flow needs to be
increased to meet current standards for air quality and
prevent mold.
Superintendent Longtin stated that homeowners want to
know how the referendum will affect them. They can go to
the school district website at www.isdl97.or , click on
voter to reach the bonding site. Homeowners can enter the
value of their home and a calculation will be shown to the
dollar on how the referendum would affect their home.
Homeowners can also call 651 -681 -2383. As an example,
a $500,000 home would see a tax increase of approximately
$550 per year.
Councilmember Duggan asked if roofs need to be replaced.
He would not want to see the school district come back in a
few years needing money for roof replacement. Board
Member Cecido answered that the school roofs have been
inspected and analyzed and roof work is not anticipated.
Councilmember Duggan suggested that information be
relayed to voters to help build support for the referendum.
ACCESSORY STRUCTURE
890 BARBARA COURT Council acknowledged the request of Mr. Garretson to
build a storage shed on an adjacent vacant lot to his
property. Accessory structures are not permitted on lots
without a principal structure. Staff responded to Mr.
Garretson that he could combine the two lots in order to
Page No. 7
August 17, 2004
build the shed. Assistant Hollister noted Councilmember
Duggan's correction that the second sentence of the second
paragraph in the staff report be deleted.
Mayor Huber asked the reason this request was not
reviewed by the Planning Commission. Assistant Hollister
stated that zoning defines principal and accessory uses in
each zone. In the R -1 zone, the principal structure is the
house. The distinction is important because that is what
allows the City to only allow accessory structures when a
principal structure exists. Most communities do not allow
an accessory structure on a lot without a principal structure,
as provided in Sectionl2 -1D -A and Section 12 -113-2 of the
ordinance. To allow it would be to negate any difference
between a principal and accessory structure.
Councilmember Vitelli also questioned this item being on
the Council agenda. No application has been submitted.
An application should be made and reviewed by the
Planning Commission.
Assistant Hollister stated that staff's concern is that two
adjacent lots could fall into separate ownership in the
} future. That could create a situation of an absentee
landowner of an accessory structure that could be used for a
purpose other than residential on a residential lot.
Minnesota statutes do not allow a use variance, which is
what this would be if the lots are not combined. If a zoning
amendment were proposed with a public hearing, it would
be possible to make a provision in the ordinance to for this
type of circumstance. There is some risk to combining the
two lots in that rules and standards change, if in the future
he would want to split the lots again.
Councilmember Vitelli stated that he would recommend
combining the two lots to build the shed or build it on the
lot where his house is located. He would not be supportive
of changing ordinances to build a shed. The Planning
Commission may also have good ideas on how to
accomplish this goal.
The consensus of the Council would be to have an
application for a zoning ordinance amendment to
accommodate this situation with appropriate protective
Page No. 8
August 17, 2004
conditions to be reviewed by the Planning Commission and
proceed through the established City review process.
INFILL STUDY City Administrator Danielson stated that this item is in
response to the concerns raised at the Council's goal setting
session regarding infill in certain areas of the City.
City Planner Stephen Grittman stated that the three
objectives for the study are: 1) set a consistent set of
parameters to allow or prohibit various types of infill,
including flag lots, "tear- downs," and potential
resubdivisions in certain areas; 2) identify options for
zoning and land use policy treatment for golf courses and
other areas that serve as non- public open space.
Councilmember Krebsbach stated that her concern is about
large, deep lots that create flag lots where houses are built
in odd locations that are not consistent with the
neighborhood. People with large lots are going to want to
split them. She would like to avoid situations where houses
are built in the middle of the block. The City has
established a certain pattern of development, and infill
houses should conform to the established pattern. Also
clear definitions are needed for "tear- downs" and remodels.
There are also situations to consider, such as when people
want to sell their property together. That is an upcoming
issue.
Councilmember Duggan added that maintaining the
character of the neighborhood is a concern. He would also
like to understand what impact the court decision on Lake
Elmo could have on Mendota Heights.
Councilmember Schneeman asked about development with
covenants. Mr. Grittman stated that the City has no
authority over private covenants, but sometimes the
covenants conflict with City standards. That will be
included in the study.
Councilmember Vitelli agreed with the staff report's
objectives for the study. He would like to see the study
focus on Nos. b. and c. as listed in the staff report.
CASE #02 -11 Council acknowledged an application from Mr. Ross
ROSS FEFERCORN Fefercorn for review and approval of a PUD Final
Development Plan for Landscaping and Signage of Town
Page No. 9
August 17, 2004
Center, "Village of Mendota Heights." The Town Center
plan is bounded by Highway 110, Dodd Road and Oak
Street.
Mr. Fefercorn presented a landscape concept and signage
design for the town center project. Specific plans have
been developed for each of the outlots in the project. Once
the concept plan is approved, bids will be taken
Market Square is a basic of the Town Center design. The
main entrance would consist of lawn, sidewalk, and a
fountain and plaza area with landscaping. Then a walkway
with seating benches would also be landscaped. The
closest area to Highway 110 could be a stage or
performance area or exhibit area. Parking is provided
around the square. Mr. Fefercorn showed a series of
pictures and maps with specific types of landscaping in
each area and outlot.
Councilmember Krebsbach asked if the landscape proposal
is at public expense. Mr. Fefercorn stated that is correct but
noted that for Outlots D, E and F, landscaping costs will be
part of the proposed building development. The outlots are
public outlots. If the concept is approved, a report will be
brought back to the Council on what can be achieved with
the Council's $400,000 budget for landscaping.
Councilmember Vitelli stated that the plan is excellent, but
he would like to see the Council agree on a base budget and
items that should be included in the base budget or should
be deferred to a later time. There may be other sources of
funds, such as Metropolitan Council. Also donations could
be collected for names engraved on pavers. He also
recommended developing alternates A, B, C, listing desired
items by priority to avoid misunderstandings in the future.
Councilmember Krebsbach agreed and suggested
prioritizing the outlots. The most important is the
commons green space, Outlot F; then Outlot A, the
entrance; and Outlot G, a second entrance. Outlot E is
surrounded by private residential and would not offer as
much use to the public. She would, therefore, consider
Outlot E as less of a priority. Outlot D is on Dodd and
visible. By establishing Outlot priority, it will be clear
what is to be included in the base budget.
Page No. 10
August 17, 2004
City Attorney Schleck stated that what is being discussed is
inconsistent with the Development Agreement. What was
contemplated was a plan for civic and green spaces that
would be established at the same time. There would be one
plan that everyone agreed to. Secondly, at the time the
Development Agreement was negotiated, it was never
contemplated that public funds would be used exclusively
for landscaping what are essentially private facilities. The
Development Agreement calls for submission of one plan
to be reviewed through the normal City process. There
would be no discussion of price. The City would decide
appropriate landscaping for an appropriate development.
The first step in the process is to finalize the one plan so
there would be no question about what is to be done.
Following approval of a plan, the City agreed to contribute
a fixed amount of money. At that time the Council felt it
appropriate to contribute $400,000 toward landscaping, but
at no time was that intended to be the entire amount that
would be spent on landscaping. One of the reasons the
Development Agreement was set up in this way is so that if
two Outlots were completed and the money spent, there
would be money left to complete it. This binds the
developer to the plan and if there are changes, the
developer has a responsibility to come back to the City for
approval. A concept plan and replacements depending on
bids makes the outcome of the plan speculative. This sets a
fixed price for the City -- $400,000 for landscaping plus
$87,000 for trails. In establishing one plan, the
Development Agreement provides incentive to the
developer to present a reasonable design that is not overly
extravagant. The incentive is also there for the developer to
find some alternative funds.
Mayor Huber stated that Mr. Fefercorn has presented a
number of concept plans that the Council has encouraged.
However, he agreed with the mechanism of funding and
keeping the City's contribution reasonable. He has no
problem with obtaining bids to find out pricing information.
City Attorney Schleck clarified that the process can include
looking at concepts. What needs to happen is that one plan
is agreed upon and is approved through the City review
process.
Councilmember Vitelli stated that from review of concept
plans, a final plan will evolve that will be approved.
Page No. 11
August 17, 2004
Mr. Fefercom stated that the economics of the
redevelopment agreements they are involved with have
been fairly specific. There is not an open number for a
future decision on what the developer's contribution will
be. Everything was defined. He does not recall exactly
what the Agreement does say in terms of the developer's
contribution. However, the developer has paid for
architectural and signage plans. Once plans are begun for
his company's building, it is not unreasonable to contribute
to make it a better place. Part of the planning process is to
make sure there is a balanced budget, which he is
committed to. He is in the process of meeting with a
landscape architect to look at costs for the plans presented
at this meeting.
Councilmember Krebsbach clarified that the budget Mr.
Fefercom is talking about is the $400,000 to be paid by the
City. No additional funding is being planned for
landscaping by the developer at this time. Mr. Fefercorn
agreed that is correct. Councilmember Krebsbach stated
that the City needs to identify the base line amount of
landscaping that can be achieved with the $400,000 budget.
Her prioritization of outlots is to identify areas where the
public would most benefit.
Mayor Huber stated that ultimately the provisions in the
Development Agreement will be applied. It has been three
years since the Agreement was executed
Councilmember Duggan asked if staff has identified funds
for the $400,000 landscaping budget. Administrator
Danielson responded that there is a Town Center budget,
which is funded from a number of different sources. The
$400,000 will come from TIF funding for green space, and
money is being budgeted for maintenance. The trail
funding is at $74,800.
Councilmember Duggan requested that costs be reported
for all of the plans that have been presented. He would also
like to further explore what plans are being discussed for
Dodd Road.
Councilmember Vitelii stated that it is clear the $400,000 is
identified and is in hand for this project. He is confident
the process is on track, is impressed with the plans and that
a final plan within budget will be achieved.
� i
Page No. 12
August 17, 2004
Signs
Mr. Fefercorn stated that a written sign criteria has been
submitted to staff. It describes in detail the types of signs
that can be used and specifically where they can be placed.
Tenants will be required to submit sign plans. A lettering
type has been selected for the entire development for
addresses. The high priority signs are on Outlot A, B, the
bank and the entrance at Market Street. He showed a
proposed plan for an entrance monument sign and
directional signs throughout the development. The main
monument sigh would be the same sandstone color brick as
City Hall at Dodd Road and Highway 110. The same sign
may be located at Market Street and other locations if
necessary. A metal kiosk would be used for informational
signs of various events. It is suggested that blade signs be
added to light poles that could be changed seasonally, or
used to announce events. The sign plan showed details for
building signs and company signs that face Market Square
as well as informational signs of various types that would
be used throughout the Town Center.
MOBILE LIBRARY Administrator Danielson reported that he discussed with
Mr. Kipp the possibility of a mobile library with Dakota
County Commissioner Patrice Batalia, who is also a library
board member. If the Council is interested in a mobile
library coming to the City, staff is seeking input on
suggested stops.
Mr. Kipp stated that taxes to the county would pay for this
service. There would be no cost to the City. Town Center
would be a location that would serve seniors.
It was the consensus of the Council to support this effort
and direct staff to discuss likely stop locations with library
officials who would have a good idea of locations that best
serve residents.
RECESS The Council recessed for a brief break.
WATERS DRIVE BUSINESS
PARK AGREEMENT Council acknowledged the request of Anchor Bank to be
the "permitted assignee" of the Development Agreement
Page No. 13
August 17, 2004
executed between the City and Klingelhutz Development
Co., dated June 14, 2004 for the development of Waters
Drive Business Park. An assignment to Anchor Bank
would only occur if Anchor Bank took title to the property
through foreclosure. Anchor Bank would then assume all
responsibility of the Development Agreement. There
would be no liability or costs to the City. As stated, the
Development Agreement does not stipulate this provision.
Anchor Bank is requesting this clarification to the
Development Agreement. Without this provision, Anchor
Bank will not release construction loan funds.
City Attorney Schleck stated that the provision means that
with transfer to Anchor Bank, the development could go
forward with a new developer without further City
approval.
Mayor Huber noted with many previous development
agreements the City has entered into in the past, he does not
recall this issue being raised. He would like staff to fully
explore what this provision would mean before the Council
approves it and he signs it.
Councihnember Krebsbach stated that the action requested
is to agree to the provision after consultation with the City
Attorney. Anchor Bank has indicated it would proceed
with the project in compliance with the Development
Agreement.
Mr. Schneider stated that he does not mind the City
reviewing the language. He emphasized that Klingelhutz in
30 years has never had a foreclosure with many project.
Anchor Bank has made this part of the loan.
City Attorney Schleck stated that many banks do not view
this detail as Anchor Bank does. At this time, the
Agreement states that if assigned to any other party, it must
be approved by the City Council. This provision allows
automatic assignment to Anchor Bank without Council
approval.
Councilmember Vitelli moved that the Mayor be authorized
to sign the document permitting Anchor Bank to be a
"permitted assignee" provided he is in agreement with the
language after consultation with the City Attorney and City
Administrator.
Page No. 14
August 17, 2004
Councilmember Krebsbach seconded the motion.
Ayes: 5
Nays: 0
PARKS PLAN Councilmember Vitelli stated that rather than separating the
park fund from the maintenance fund, direction and
guidance can be provided to keep maintenance
expenditures at approximately $70,000 per year and
$300,000 in reserve. It should all be in one pot. The
reserve could decrease to $200,000 to decrease City
expenditures.
Mr. Kullander stated that the Parks Commission would like
to establish a five -year plan, from 2005 to 2009. Under that
plan, projects have been identified that would total
approximately $900,000. In looking at infill and park
dedication fees projected for the next five years, the park
budget would fall short by $340,000 for these projects. The
request is Council approval to identify another funding
source in the amount of approximately $70,000 per year to
make up this shortfall.
Councilmember Vitelli asked the purpose of keeping
$300,000 in reserve. If $30,000 to $40,000 can be trimmed
from the plan, additional funds would not be needed. He
asked if these items would be impacted by GASB34
requirement. Finance Director Schabacker stated that at
this time the City's infrastructure assets are not on the
books. With GAS1334, they will be on the books and
depreciated over the course of their useful life.
Mayor Huber stated that the booking of depreciation does
not implicate cash to fund a liability as a result of
depreciation.
Mr. Kullander stated that the Special Park Fund is only
accumulated through park dedication fees from single -
family lots. In 2000, the Council allocated cell tower
revenues for three years to offset costs for maintenance that
the Park Fund could not cover. If the reserve is depleted,
there is no money for any project. A request would have to
be submitted to the Council for each project.
Mayor Huber stated that if the reserve is spent, it would not
mean the Parks Commission would cease to exist, but it
would have to operate differently. The Parks Commission
Page No. 15
August 17, 2004
has made a compelling argument that equipment put in 15
years ago is wearing out. The Council will consider that
issue and funding will be part of that consideration.
Councilmember Schneeman stated that the City needs to
review what is being used and what is not. Activities
change. Also, it is very costly to operate lights for skating
rinks, when there are very few people skating. She would
like to see one large central skating rink. The parks need to
be in better condition with more up -to -date equipment.
Councilmember Duggan noted that in a document he read
from the League of Minnesota Cities, park dedication fees
must be used in the area where they are generated.
Assistant Hollister clarified that cities have the right to
impose development fees if there is a rational connection
between the fee charged and the cost created by the
development. The park dedication fee is allowed under the
theory that new development creates new need for parks.
Once collected under that rationale, the City is obligated to
use the money for park improvements. He would not go so
far as to say that park dedication fees collected from a
development must be used in the same area the
development is located. It can be applied more generally.
The Park Fund maintained a $400,000 balance in the past.
The $300,000 balance is a decrease. The Parks
Commission sees it as an endowment. A minimum balance
that generates 2.5% interest every year allows expenditure
of interest earned, although not much can be done with
$7,500. Parks Commission projects are then either funded
through dedication fees or by a direct request to the
Council.
It was the consensus of the Council to lay this matter over
until after the budget workshop discussions.
IC It il.�i�]
SOMERSET PROJECT City Engineer McDermott reported that two bids were
received for the Somerset project. The low bid from Amt
Construction is in the amount of $1,455,528.80. Their bid
is higher than the Engineer's estimate of $1,360,000. Arnt
Construction is a reputable firm with excellent references.
Staff is recommending the bid be awarded to Arnt
Construction. The biggest difference is in the concrete curb
Page No. 16
August 17, 2004
and gutter cost. Concrete prices have increased across the
board this year.
Mayor Huber noted that a third bid was received, but
because it came in after the deadline, it could not be
considered.
Councilmember Vitelli moved to approve the bid award
from Arnt Construction in the amount of $1,455,528.80, for
Somerset Area and Somerset Court Reconstruction, Job
Nos. 200203 and 200218, Improvement No. 2004, Project
Nos. 1 & 3, as recommended by the Public Works Director.
Councilmember Schneeman seconded the motion.
Ayes: 5
Nays: 0
LEXINGTON TRAIL City Engineer McDermott stated that this item is to approve
plans and specifications and authorize advertisement for
bids for the Lexington Avenue trail improvement. The
Parks Commission has requested that the shoulder on
Wagon Wheel Trail be widened to provide a temporary
pathway between Lexington and I -35. Also the request
includes using park dedication funds.
Mayor Huber stated that adding more asphalt to Wagon
Wheel Trail would be a big issue for residents in that area.
Councilmember Krebsbach agreed and stated that she
would like to see the trail up to Lexington but not widen
Wagon Wheel at this time.
As the Council had just received the information on this
matter at this meeting, it was the consensus of the Council
to lay this matter over to the next Council meeting.
Councilmember Duggan moved to lay this item over to the
September 7, 2004 City Council meeting.
Councilmember Vitelli seconded the motion.
Discussion:
Page No. 17
August 17, 2004
Mr. Kullander stated that the approval requested is for the
Lexington Avenue Trail that is funded by the county and
the state. The Parks Commission requested an addition to
that project. If the Council is not comfortable with the
Commission's request, bids can be authorized for the trail
from Wagon Wheel to Mendota Heights Road on
Lexington
City Engineer McDermott stated that the City has been
working with Roger Manthe to purchase property. He has
agreed to sell the easement so the trail will be 10 feet from
the road.
Councilmember Vitelli withdrew his second to the motion.
Councilmember Duggan withdrew the motion.
Councilmember Schneeman moved to approve final plans
and specifications and authorize advertisement for bids and
authorize staff to negotiate easement acquisition for
Lexington Avenue Trail improvement, Job No. 9903.
Councilmember Vitelli seconded the motion.
Ayes: 5
Nays: 0
COUNCIL COMMENTS On behalf of the Council, Mayor Huber expressed sincere
sympathy to Councilmember Duggan on the loss of his
brother.
Administrator Danielson reported receipt of a phone call
inviting Councilmembers to a tour on the Mississippi, next
Thursday, August 19, at 1:00 p.m.
ADJOURN There being no further business to come before Council,
Mayor Huber adjourned the meeting.
TIME OF ADJOURNMENT: 11:30 p.m.
K thleen M. Swanson
City Clerk
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