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1999-02-02 Council minutesPage No. 1 February 2, 1999 CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY STATE OF MINNESOTA Minutes of the Regular Meeting Held Tuesday, February 2, 1999 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. Mayor Mertensotto called the meeting to order at 7:30 o'clock P.M. The following members were present: Mayor Mertensotto, Councilmembers Dwyer, Huber, Krebsbach and Schneeman. AGENDA ADOPTION Councilmember Krebsbach moved adoption of the revised agenda for the meeting. Councilmember Schneeman seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 APPROVAL OF MINUTES Councilmember Schneeman moved approval of the minutes of the regular meeting held on January 19, 1999 as amended. Councilmember Huber seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 CONSENT CALENDAR Councilmember Huber moved approval of the consent calendar for the meeting, along with authorization for execution of any necessary documents contained therein. a. Acknowledgement of the minutes of the January 26, 1999 Planning Commission meeting. b. Acknowledgment of the Building Activity Report for January. c. Authorization for the purchase of a 1999 Chevrolet i/2 ton pick- up truck from Jeff Belzer Chevrolet for its low bid of $15,610, the cost to be charged to the 1998 Street Department budget. d. Acknowledgment of a $500.00 donation from Ann Adams and Sally Ehlers to the Fire Department along with authorization to use the donation to assist in the purchase of a video camera, Page No. 2 February 2, 1999 subject to documentation on what will be done with the existing camera and where the remaining funding will come from. e. Acknowledgment of a letter from Ted Husnik announcing his retirement from the fire department effective on December 31, 1998 along with acknowledgment of his 20 years of service on the fire department. f. Approval of a memo from NDC4 regarding use of microphones. g. Acknowledgment of the withdrawal of the city's offer of a donation of $4,000 to the school district for the purchase of a used snowmobile for cross - country trail grooming and general grooming costs. h. Acknowledgment of Mayor Mertensotto's election as the MASAC Chair and approval to revise the city's MASAC appointments made to January 5 as follows: to appoint as Representatives Ad -Hoc Airport Relations Commission member Jill Smith and Mayor Mertensotto, and to appoint as Alternate Representatives City Administrator Batchelder and ARC Chair Scott Beaty. i. Approval of the three -year advisory commission reappointment of Joe Betlej to the Planning Commission, Dick Spicer and John (Jay) Liberacki to the Parks and Recreation Commission, and Ellsworth Stein and Gregg Fitzer to the Airport Relations Commission. Direction to the City Administrator to send a letter to the Metropolitan Airports Commission requesting commencement of official negotiations to resolve differences between the Mendota Heights and Minneapolis Contract(s) Prohibiting a Third Parallel Runway (letter to be directed to Jeff Hamiel with a copy to the attorney for the MAC). k. Approval of the list of contractor licenses dated February 2, 1999 and attached hereto. 1. Approval of the List of Claims dated February 2, 1999 and totaling $61,309.71. Councilmember Krebsbach seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 Page No. 3 February 2, 1999 CASE NO. 99 -01, Council acknowledged an application from Mr. Scott Thomas THOMAS for a 2.5 foot front yard setback for a garage addition at 1442 Wachtler Avenue. Council also acknowledged associated reports from the City Planner and city staff. Mr. Thomas and Mr. Dean Madsen, architect, were present for the discussion. Mr. Madsen reviewed drawings for Council and the audience, stating that Mr. Thomas is interested in receiving a variance to add a single car garage onto his existing garage and to add a sunroom to the rear of the building. He pointed out that although a variance is being requested, the new garage sits at the same setback as the existing garage. The Planning Commission had a couple of interpretations on the setback. One was that the setback variance should be from the standard 30 foot setback. The other was that adjacent houses are set back 35 feet, establishing 35 feet as the setback line. He informed Council that in two points the existing garage is at 27 Y2 feet from the property line and Mr. Thomas is asking for a garage addition at the same setback. The neighbors have consented to the variance. Mayor Mertensotto stated that as a practical situation, the house already encroaches into the setback ant nothing will change if the requested variance is approved. Councilmember Krebsbach stated that she would like it to be clear that the applicant is not asking for a sideyard setback variance. Mr. Madsen responded that no sideyard setback variance is requested or needed. Also responding to a question from Councilmember Krebsbach, he stated that Mr. Thomas is going to reside the entire house so that the existing structure and addition all have the same exterior. Mayor Mertensotto stated that the plans which are submitted with the building permit application must show that the siding will be uniform around the entire structure. Councilmember Huber moved adoption of Resolution No. 99 -04, "A RESOLUTION APPROVING A BUILDING PERMIT AUTHORIZATION AND A 2.5 FOOT FRONT YARD SETBACK VARIANCE FOR A GARAGE ADDITION FOR 1442 WACHTLER AVENUE." Councilmember Schneeman seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 Page No. 4 February 2, 1999 CASE NO. 99 -02, Council acknowledged an application from Mendakota Country Club MENDAKOTA COUNTRY for a conditional use permit to construct a new maintenance facility. CLUB Council also acknowledged associated staff reports. Mr. Bob McKinney, Superintendent at Mendakota, was present for the discussion. Mr. McKinney stated that he is present to request approval for a much needed maintenance facility. He explained that the maintenance activity moved into the 5,000 square foot Pro Shop in 1989 and needs more space. The proposal is for a 10,000 structure, and Mendakota also plans to redesign the tee running north/south at Dodd Road to straighten out the hole that runs along Dodd. He informed Council that Mayor Mertensotto has asked him why a 60 foot by 180 foot flat roof is proposed, and stated that commercial applications like that are built using steel panels to hold up the roof. The building will be concrete block, about 20 feet tall with a slight pitch to the roof, similar in appearance to the fire station. He noted that several of the buildings along Dodd have flat roofs, and that Mendakota also feels that the building will be less obtrusive with a flat roof. To carry a sixty foot span with trusses would require more - columns to hold up the structure and they would get in the way. The building will be for storage and there would not be room to hide the columns. Mr. McKinney stated that Mayor Mertensotto has also asked about the appearance on the east side of the structure and suggested that there should be windows on the east side of the building. He stated that windows are not needed for the intended use and they would get in the way. If there were windows, one window would have to be in the lunch room and he would like to put lockers in along the wall where the window would be. Other windows would fall where cold storage will be and one would be in the shop area where he wants to put pegboard. He stated that Mayor Mertensotto also asked if some detail could be added to break up the long east wall, and Mendakota . would be glad to do that. Mayor Mertensotto stated that the problem he has is that Mendakota is proposing to line the building up with the Fire Station, which will be acceptable from a setback standpoint, but the building would be 60 by 180 feet. He informed Mr. McKinney that Council would likely not permit that size building in the industrial area as it is proposed, and this building would be on Dodd Road, which is not an industrial area. The building is 20 feet tall and even though there are scuppers running up and down, that does not break up the wall. Using different colored block does not break up the mass either. He Page No. 5 February 2, 1999 stated that Mr. McKinney is correct in saying that a residential style roof would not be good for the structure but it really bothers him that Council would be approving a 180 foot long concrete wall along Dodd Road. He informed Mr. McKinney that he has come to the conclusion that it is the height of the building that makes it obtrusive. He stated that he spent considerable time reviewing the plan and trying to come up with a suggested revision that would be more acceptable. He proposed to Mr. McKinney that the length of the building be reduced to 105 feet and that the cold storage area be moved into a 75 foot wing. Nothing else would need to change except that one exterior door would be lost. He also felt that there is more parking proposed than is needed. He stated that if this type of design were used, there would be a slightly longer run needed for the sewer line, but the length of the building would be scaled back considerably and Mendakota could retain everything that is in the currently proposed design. Regarding parking needs, Mr. McKinney responded that there could be up to 19 people working in the maintenance department at one time in the summer months. Councilmember Dwyer asked if there is anything peculiar to the function of the building that requires the linear area. Mr. McKiney responded that the large courtyard area gives him room for trucks, etc. to come in and back up. He stated that he has looked at "L" shaped and "T" shaped configuration and feels that the proposal he is presenting is the most practical. Mayor Mertensotto responded that if an "L" shaped configuration is used, all of the doors would be internal and that is where the storage should be for waste containers, sod, and other stored materials. He stated that Mendakota would have to encroach on the future berm a little to get vehicle access to that area, but there would be no doors facing south or east. All would face the courtyard. He stated that none of the building area would be lost but the entrance to the cold storage would be the west. With regard to the garage door entrance size, he stated that there could possibly be one sixteen foot door and the others could be scaled down. Creating an "L" shape would scale the building down to 105 feet along Dodd Road, which is the side of the building that people will have to look at every time they pass by. He informed Mr. McKinney that Council requires more in the industrial area than is proposed on this building and that there is no building in the industrial area that has 180 feet of length. Page No. 6 February 2, 1999 Councilmember Krebsbach stated that turning the building into an "L" shaped structure would be a great idea. She noted that it is obvious that Mendakota is screening the building from the golf course and she would hope they would screen it from Dodd. Mr. McKinney responded that all of the trees that are shown on the plan are existing trees. Councilmember Krebsbach stated that she would want to see the same intensity of screening on Dodd with evergreens. She asked where the trucks will be coming from. Mr. McKinney responded that they will be coming off Dodd along the fence line into the building on the west side. The drive and parking area will be blacktop and concrete. He stated that the plan proposed by Mayor Mertensotto would limit him to one door on the north and one on the west and that would make it difficult to get equipment in. Mayor Mertensotto responded that other than shifting or possibly losing a door, all of the work space is the same in an "L" shaped configuration as it is in the proposed plan. The "L" configuration just takes the north 75 feet of building length and puts it in the southwest corner of the building. He stated that he can see where Mendakota could end up doing a lot of blacktop between the building and the right -of -way and that would become a storage area. He pointed out that the undesirable uses of the building would then be visible from Dodd Road instead of from the golf course. He stated that cutting the building back to 105 feet in length would make it more palatable and Mendakota would not lose any space. He also suggested that perhaps a band at the first floor level would also help break up the building. He stated that Mr. McKinney has stated that the building would be eighteen feet high and there will not be any equipment on the roof that could be seen from the road. Councilmember Dwyer asked if there are extra construction costs involved in the "L" shaped design that would make the building cost more than a 180 foot long building design. Public Works Director Danielson responded that there would likely be higher costs but that he would think there would be more significance in how it would affect Mendakota's operations. Page No. 7 February 2, 1999 Councilmember Dwyer noted that the Mayor's proposal would not affect the square footage of the building but access would change and it would be necessary to move the doors. Councilmember Schneeman stated that she looked at the site and can see where the berms are, and felt that there should be more trees than are proposed. Responding to a question, Mr. McKinney stated that the building will probably be tan in color with a dark brown accent. He stated that Mendakota needs a maintenance facility and will do what it takes to get one as long Mendakota can afford it. Mayor Mertensotto responded that he thinks an ' L" shape would be more palatable as far as the city is concerned. He again stated that he does not think there area any 180 foot long buildings in the city now and pointed out that this is a very prominent location. He stated that Council would like to do what it can to assist Mendakota, but 180 feet is too long. Councilmember Huber stated that Council has discussed development issues with Mendakota in the past, and part of that discussion involved tearing down the existing maintenance facility. The discussion included the city giving Mendakota assistance, and perhaps the city could help if Mendakota would be willing to make the suggested adjustments. Mr. McKinney responded that his concern would be getting the trucks into the courtyard. He stated that he does not think he could screen the courtyard as well under an ' L" configuration as he could with the proposed plan. He informed Council that when the new maintenance facility is completed, the existing one will be torn down. Councilmember Krebsbach stated that Council is interested in this part of the city and is looking into development in the area. Council has discussed some things that the city could potentially do with TIF assistance, and has discussed assisting with development costs. She stated that she would be very interested in more screening, similar to the evergreens on Dodd. She asked that Mr. McKinney take the same care with what is done along Dodd Road as he does with the golf course view, including the intensity of the screening. Responding to a question from Councilmember Dwyer about projecting the building westward rather than eastward, Mr. Page No. 8 February 2, 1999 McKinney stated that he will look at all options, but that he must also look at costs. Mayor Mertensotto stated that as far as the city is concerned, Council would be willing to work with Mendakota and discuss the cost issue with Mr. McKinney if he feels there will be added costs for constructing an "L" design and moving the building to the west. He informed Mr. McKinney that what he wants is that Mendakota have its activity behind the building and not in front, facing Dodd, and that the building length be cut and the doors not face Dodd. He stated that if the building were interior to the golf course, in the woods, Council would have no problem with it, but the building is proposed on Dodd Road where it can be seen by thousands of people passing by each day. It may delay construction, and perhaps the city will have to contribute TIF funding for whatever qualifies under TIF guidelines, but if Mendakota spends a little more time on planning everyone will come out with a better product. He stated that he would like to keep the issue open for awhile, stating that while he realizes Mendakota has to have plans drawn, if changes are not made in the design, he could not approve the plan. Councilmember Schneeman asked what can be done to speed the process up for Mendakota. She asked if Council could have an ad hoc group meet with Mr. McKinney before the next Council meeting. Mayor Mertensotto responded that two members of the Council could meet with Mr. McKinney as an ad hoc committee. He informed Mr. McKinney that Council has concerns about the linear building size and the need for more screening and asked Mr. McKinney to come back to Council in two weeks after addressing those concerns. The Secretary of Mendakota Country Club stated that the intent was that the trucks that load materials for the maintenance work come in from the south and into the courtyard. He asked how that can be done with the "L" design. Mayor Mertensotto responded that the doors can still be on the inside and that parking would be on the south side. The Secretary responded that he does not see where the trucks can j get in if the "L" were to the east and if it were to the west he would be concerned about the setback. He also asked if 105 feet of length is a magic number. Page No. 9 February 2, 1999 Mayor Mertensotto responded that it is not, but that is the length of the cold storage area. The 75 foot wing is the size of the heated storage area. He stated that all he did in his proposed layout was to take the heated storage area off the north end of the building and put it in the "L." He stated that he feels 105 feet is the maximum length and that he would like to cut that back more if possible. Councilmember Huber stated that Council is not trying to design the building but is giving Mendakota feedback. What Council is saying is that a 180 foot structure at the proposed height would not be approved, either along Dodd Road or in the industrial park. He stated that Council is looking for a combination of reduced length and additional architectural interest or whatever will soften the appearance of the building. The Secretary asked if there could be two buildings instead of one. Mayor Mertensotto responded that two buildings would be fine but that Mr. McKinney told him that would increase the costs. He suggested that perhaps the office area would not have to be as tall as the shop area, and that two buildings would give more design options and more landscaping could be done. Mr. Art Miller, a resident of Mendota Heights and member of the Club, stated that he has been involved in the design with Mr. McKinney. He stated that it is important that Mendakota be able to move all of the equipment out of the building simply from the cold storage area. He stated that 60 feet is a long way to move equipment and asked if it is possible that Mendakota could put doors on the south side and a door on the east side so the equipment can be taken in and out. Mayor Mertensotto stated that he would prefer that the door not be on the east side because Mendakota would need to put blacktop on the east side. He stated that blacktopping for 19 or 20 parking spaces would not be desirable on the east side of the building and he would prefer it not be blacktopped. Mr. Miller responded that he and Mr. McKinney looked at a lot of newer maintenance buildings at other courses including The Wilds and Bear Path, and they are similar to what Mendakota proposes to do. He stated that Mendakota needs to get its equipment in and out easily. Page No. 10 February 2, 1999 Councilmember Huber stated that as the Mayor has said, if the building were more internal to the course where it would not impact Dodd Road there would be less concern about the building length. Councilmember Dwyer moved to table the application for conditional use permit to February 16 and to appoint Mayor Mertensotto and Councilmember Schneeman to serve as an ad hoc committee to work with Mendakota. Councilmember Krebsbach seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 CASE NO. 99 -03, LAKE Council acknowledged an application from Mr. James Lake for a 6.5 foot front yard setback variance for a garage addition to add a third stall to the existing garage at 630 Sunset Lane, along with associated staff reports. Mr. Lake and Mr. Alan Kretman, planning consultant for Mr. Lake, were present for the discussion. Mr. Kretman stated that he has been working with Mr. Lake to put together drawings for an addition, looking at existing conditions. He reviewed the plot plan, stating that there are quite a few evergreen trees in the front of the property. He explained that Mr. Lake's lot is a corner lot and an adjoining neighbor's house is set back 5 0. 10 feet, so the setback required for Mr. Lake's garage is 30 feet plus half of the 20 additional feet his neighbor's house is set back (setback requirement of 40 feet). The garage is proposed to be set back 33.5 feet. He stated that Mr. Lake is proposing to add a single garage stall at the end of his, expanding from a two car garage to a three car garage, and a 6.5 foot variance is needed. The structure would be about 15 feet tall where it encroaches on the setback area. Mr. Kretman stated that he feels that from a city standpoint there are things that justify the variance. The shape of the parcel was created a long time ago and the house was built a long time ago. Mr. Lake moved in four years ago and had nothing to do with how it was built. The shape of the lot is unique, and only a small portion of the garage would encroach on the setback. He felt that there will be minimal impact on any neighbors. He stated that one of the Planning Commission discussion issues was that while the addition sounds like a good idea, the ordinance limits what can be done. He stated that the idea is to put the 12 foot wide addition on the garage with the accompanying roof and that Mr. Lake plans to put a new roof and new siding on his home so that everything matches. He stated that Mr. Lake may also want to put some living space above the existing garage. Page No. 11 February 2, 1999 Responding to a question Mr. Mayor Mertensotto, Mr. Lake stated that a child's bedroom in the house to the south will face the addition. Councilmember Dwyer noted that the neighbors to the south have not objected and all of the neighbors have agreed to the proposal. Mr. Lake stated that there had been a question about the view to the south and their main concern was to make sure that the building all flows together. He reviewed sketches for Council. He also informed Council that he has decided not to have living space above the garage, and that the door in the garage addition will be 9 feet tall. Responding to a question from Mayor Mertensotto about the need for a nine foot door, Mr. Lake stated that he will be storing a vintage vehicle in the addition. Councilmember Huber stated that Mr. Lake had a sketch that showed living space above the two car garage. Mr. Lake responded that it was just a sketch and that he is not going to create living space above the garage. He stated that he is just looking for an additional garage. Mayor Mertensotto pointed out that Council could set a condition that there cannot be double decking over the third stall. He stated that the drawing before Council shows that the driveway is being moved further to the east and the drawing before Council tonight takes away stacking room and puts the driveway close to the stop sign. Mr. Lake stated that he is not moving the curb cut at all. Mr. Kretman stated that the city can regulate the access issue and say that the addition can only be one story. He stated that it is also appropriate that Council place restrictions as it wishes. Mayor Mertensotto stated that a variance goes with the land and the variance can be recorded against the property so that any future owner is put on notice that he could not double deck the garage or change the curb cut. Councilmember Krebsbach pointed out that one of the neighbor's major concerns was that the landscaping not be changed. Page No. 12 February 2, 1999 Mr. Lake responded that he will do anything the neighbor would like and that he and the neighbor have talked about fencing and trees and agree that fencing would not be good. He informed Council that he told his neighbor he would be more than happy to add more trees. Mr. Jolene Kirchner, 1255 Dodd Road, stated that she lives at the corner of Dodd and Sunset and the addition would not affect her. She stated that she is in favor of the Lakes' proposal. Mr. Jerry Gotz, 633 Sunset Lane, stated that he supports the Lake's proposal and that his concern when he moved into his home was to have a good neighborhood feeling. He stated that he feels as much a part of his neighborhood as he did in his old neighborhood and Mr. Lake is one of the reasons why he feels that way. He stated that Mr. Lake is a perfectionist and that he came to him a year ago to show him his proposal. Councilmember Dwyer moved adoption of Resolution No. 99 -05, "A RESOLUTION APPROVING A BUILDING PERMIT AUTHORIZATION AND A FRONT YARD SETBACK VARIANCE FOR A GARAGE ADDITION FOR 630 SUNSET LANE," with the conditions that the curb cut not be widened from the existing width, that the addition not have living space above it, that the exterior of the addition and the exterior of the existing house be the same and that the existing landscaping be maintained or enhanced. Councilmember Huber seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 Staff was directed to record the resolution against he property at Dakota County so that future owners will be aware of the restrictions. CASE NO. 99-04, KOURY Council acknowledged an application from Mr. Tom Koury for a 7 foot sideyard setback variance to allow construction of a home addition at 1061 Esther Lane. Council also acknowledged associated staff reports. Mr. Koury was present for the discussion. Mr. Koury reviewed drawings of the proposed addition, informing Council that he has an irregularly shaped lot. He stated that he came away from the Planning Commission meeting with a suggestion that he replat his lot, which he felt makes sense. He reviewed the site plan for council and stated that he needs the addition because he is disabled and needs to do more work out of a home office. He reviewed the plan for the addition, explaining that the building plan Page No. 13 February 2, 1999 shows the entrance in the wrong place — it will be from the south. Mr. Koury if he needs a handicapped access in the future, the south would be the best place for the access. He stated that there will be a basement under the addition and there will be an egress window in the basement. The problem he ran into is that the corner of the proposed addition comes within three feet of the existing property line. He informed Council that his mother lives to the north of his lot and that their lots were platted in 1944. He stated that he also needs a variance to move the lot line so that he and his mother can deed some of their property to each other to straighten out the lot line. He expressed concern that if he goes through the process to get the variance, his construction will be delayed. Mayor Mertensotto responded that Mr. Koury proposes to adjust his south property line so that he does not need a setback variance but that he would need a variance to replat. Mr. Koury responded that he would need the replat variance and that the Planning Commission told him that there would be a demonstrated hardship. He further stated that if he has to go through the process of filing for the variance to move the lot line it will take another month and road restrictions which will be in place then would mean he could not start construction until June. Mayor Mertensotto stated that Mr. Koury's lot is a non - conforming lot and Council could authorize the issuance of a building permit so that Mr. Koury can build his addition with the condition that he proceed with replatting the boundary line. Mr. Koury and his mother would still not have non - conforming lots but Mr. Koury would not need the setback variance. He stated that if Council authorizes the building permit, Council can stipulate that Mr. Koury would not get a certificate of occupancy until the replatting of the boundary line is completed. He stated that it is obvious that approval of the permit would imply that Council would be granting a variance. Mr. Koury informed Council that he has already spent considerable money on the replatting process and that the replatting may be done before the building project is started. Councilmember Dwyer stated that he feels the lot line adjustment is a very creative and equitable solution. j Councilmember Dwyer moved to deny the requested variance and authorize the issuance of a building permit for a garage addition at 630 Sunset Lane, with the condition that the applicant must apply for Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 Page No. 14 February 2, 1999 a replat of the boundary line so that no variance is needed for the proposed structure. Councilmember Schneeman seconded the motion. Staff was directed to instruct the Code Enforcement Officer to issue a building permit because Council has an agreement from the property owner that he will replat the property line. Councilmember Krebsbach asked what the amount of encroachment is from the building on the adjacent property. Mr. Koury responded that part of his neighbor's car port encroaches 3 feet onto his property. He informed Council that he has spoken to his neighbor about the matter but that Mr. Koury does not want to bear the cost of straightening out that property line. MENDOTA HEIGHTS Council acknowledged a memo and proposed ordinance from Public ROAD PARKING Works Director Danielson in response to a request from Friendly Hills Middle School Principal Wynne for the installation of "no- stopping, no- parking" signs near the school's entrances on Mendota Heights Road. Public Works Director Danielson informed Council that he and Police Chief Johnson agree with the recommendation of Ms. Wynne. He stated that police officers have been patrolling the area and confirm that people are dropping their children off on Mendota Heights Road and the children have to cross the street to get to and from school. Mayor Mertensotto stated that the signs should be installed but that there should also be more instruction. He felt that there should be no parking or stopping within 100 feet of the driveway entrance in the morning. Responding to a question from Councilmember Krebsbach, Public Works Director Danielson stated that when people turn into the school property they have a hard time getting back out onto Mendota Heights Road making left turns, so they prefer not to go into the school's lot. Councilmember Krebsbach responded that there seems to be a larger problem than signage — there is a major traffic problem. Page No. 15 February 2, 1999 Public Works Director Danielson stated that installation of the signs will cause people to go into the parking lot and traffic will back up. He stated that the school should do some modifications to the driveway to add a left turn lane so that people making right turns can do so easily. Councilmember Krebsbach suggested that perhaps exit from the school property should be by right -turn only. Public Works Director Danielson responded that the school district does want no left turn signs and they can do that, but there is a question of whether the city can enforce the signs on private property. Councilmember Krebsbach stated that she would rather facilitate people dropping their children off on school property. Councilmember Schneeman asked whether Principal Wynne had not asked for the signs as a short term solution and that she had indicated that the school would continue working on a solution. Public Works Director Danielson agreed, and stated that the proposed signage would be a first step. Councilmember Huber stated that he noted in the letter from Ms. Wynne that she is recommending that the city not install no parking signs on Mendota Heights Road because the parking lot is limited and people often park on the road for school events. Public Works Director Danielson responded that hoods can be placed over the signs if Council wishes to allow parking when school events are scheduled. Councilmember Schneeman moved adoption of Ordinance No. 327, `AN ORDINANCE PROHIBITING PARKING AND STOPPING ON MENDOTA HEIGHTS ROAD NEAR THE FRIENDLY HILLS MIDDLE SCHOOL." Councilmember Krebsbach seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 ORDINANCE NO. 328 Council acknowledged a memo from the Public Works Director along with a proposed ordinance to amend the building ordinance to provide for expiration of building permits. Page No. 16 February 2, 1999 Councilmember Dwyer moved adoption of Ordinance No. 328, "AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 502." Councilmember Krebsbach seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 TELEPHONE SYSTEM Council acknowledged a memo from Treasurer Shaughnessy regarding retention of a consultant for preparation of a request for proposals for a new telephone system. Administrator Batchelder informed Council that Ms. Kate Boland, from Advanced Communication. has been working with city staff on a voluntary basis to develop parameters and definition for a telephone system for City Hall, Public Works and the Fire Station. He stated that staff is at the point where an RFP can be prepared but does not have the expertise needed to prepare an appropriate RFP to get the best system and price for the city. He stated that the purpose of the memo is to recommend that the city pay Ms. Boland on an hourly basis to assist staff in putting together an RFP, going through the bid process, and reviewing the bids so that the city can make judgments on the bids that are received. Treasurer Shaughnessy informed Council that Ms. Boland is a friend of his and has been assisting staff because of that friendship. He stated that she has not asked for any payment and has volunteered her time to help staff get started in the process, but that he felt she should be compensated for future consulting service, on an hourly basis with a maximum of $2,000. He informed Council that Ms. Boland was employed by Lucent Technology in the past and prepared requests for proposals for clients. Administrator Batchelder stated that Advanced Communication does not provide telephone systems and will not bid on the system. Advanced provides local telephone service in competition with US West. He informed Council that Ms. Boland is hoping that the city would consider using Advanced as a local telephone service provider on the basis of the prices they charge in comparison to US West. Her prior experience with Lucent was in helping organizations develop and define telephone systems. Mayor Mertensotto stated that if Ms. Boland is capable of putting together a system that is capable of serving the city's needs and preparing an RFP that can be met by several vendors, he would support the recommendation. Page No. 17 February 2, 1999 Councilmember Huber moved to authorize the retention of Kate Boland's services for the purpose of drafting an RFP for a telephone system, on an hourly rate basis with a cap of $2,000. Councilmember Krebsbach seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 METROPOLITAN COUNCIL Mayor Mertensotto informed Council that he has received a request APPOINTMENT from Carl Cummins III for Council endorsement of his appointment as the District 15 representative to the Metropolitan Council. He stated that Mr. Cummins served as a member of the City Council from 1985 to 1993. He briefly reviewed Mr. Cummins' credentials in public and civic service. Mayor Mertensotto stated that Mr. Cummins has asked him to write a letter to the Governor on his behalf for appointment as the District 15 representative. Councilmember Huber moved adoption of Resolution No. 99 -06, "A RESOLUTION NOMINATING CARL CUMMINS III FOR APPOINTMENT TO THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL." Councilmember Krebsbach seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 ' Nays:0 Councilmember Schneeman stated that she has no reservations about nominating Carl Cummins but wondered if there is a process whereby someone else to be nominated. She stated that she is not aware of anyone else in Mendota Heights who is interested in appointment. MISCELLANEOUS Administrator Batchelder informed Council that he has received a letter from the City of Eagan congratulation Mayor Mertensotto on his appointment as Chair of the MASAC. Administrator Batchelder informed Council that he and Chief Johnson attended a meeting at West St. Paul today to put together the final touches on a communication system upgrade and that over the coming meetings, Council will need to make some significant decisions on communication services and system upgrades. Page No. 18 February 2, 1999 ADJOURN There being no further business to come before Council, Councilmember Krebsbach moved that the meeting be adjourned. Councilmember Schneeman seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 TIME OF ADJOURNMENT: 9:35 p.m. Kathleen M. Swanson City Clerk ATTEST: Charles E. Mertensotto Mayor Page No. 1 January 19, 1999 CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY STATE OF MINNESOTA Minutes of the Regular Meeting Held Tuesday, January 19, 1999 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. Mayor Mertensotto called the meeting to order at 7:30 o'clock P.M. The following members were present: Mayor Mertensotto, Councilmembers Dwyer, Huber, Krebsbach and Schneeman. Mayor Mertensotto turned the chair over to Councilmember Huber. AGENDA ADOPTION Councilmember Dwyer moved adoption of the revised agenda for the meeting. Councilmember Schneeman seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 APPROVAL OF MINUTES Councilmember Krebsbach moved approval of the minutes of the regular meeting held on January 5, 1999. Councilmember Dwyer seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 CONSENT CALENDAR Councilmember Schneeman moved approval of the consent calendar for the meeting, revised to remove item f, computer acquisition memo, from the agenda, along with authorization for execution of any necessary documents contained therein. a. Acknowledgement of the minutes of the December 9, 1998 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting. b. Acknowledgment of the Fire Department monthly report for December, 1998. c. Acknowledgment of the Treasurer's monthly report for December, 1998. d. Acknowledgment of a memo regarding a correction in the administration personal services budget detail sheet. Page No. 2 January 19, 1999 e. Approval to pay a claim of $475.00 to Ms. Marion Ryan for reimbursement for sewer back -up expenses at 684 No. Freeway Road. f. Approval of Authorization for the purchase of two replacement 1999 Ford Crown Victoria police cars from Superior Ford for a total cost of $41,216.00. g. Approval of the list of contractor licenses dated January 19, 1999 and attached hereto. h. Approval of the List of Claims dated January 19, 1999 and totaling $928,000.48. Councilmember Krebsbach seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 ENTRANCE SIGN Council acknowledged a memo from Public Works Director Danielson regarding fmal design review for the city entrance sign proposed to be constructed on Dodd Road at Mendota Heights Road. Mr. Bob Peota and Mr. Cliff Swenson, from Signia Sign, were present to review the proposed design. Mr. Swenson informed Council that the last time he came before Council he reviewed a design for a sign labeled option 1 which had a limestone base with a wall in the back and a wall in the front and landscaping. At that time Council directed design changes to save some money but yet keep the design similar, matching the City office sign. He then reviewed the proposed design changes, which included removing the back wall and keeping a short retaining wall in the front. The materials, including limestone veneered and stacked limestone retaining wall, are the same. He reviewed the planting scheme and the grading that will be required to create the bench that the sign base will sit on. He informed Council that the refinements have been made to the sign, and he is seeking approval of the design. Responding to a question from Councilmember Huber, Mr. Swenson stated that the primary change from the last artist's rendering is removal of the back wall. He showed Council and the audience a sample of the rock faced stone that is proposed to be used in the retaining wall and veneer. The stone is quarried in Minnesota, near Page No. 3 January 19, 1999 i" Mankato. The wall cap will be more finished to provide a contrast with the stone. Mayor Mertensotto asked the length of the 3 i/2 foot tall retaining wall and whether it will stay in place over time. He pointed out that there will only be a warranty of one year after the project is done. Mr. Swenson responded that the wall is approximately 20 to 22 feet long. He informed Council that from an engineering standpoint it is not retaining a large load and will work fine. He stated that the product has been used successfully in other projects, in walls up to five feet tall, with no problems. The details that will be prepared will be similar to the detail he has used in the other projects. Responding to a question from Councilmember Krebsbach regarding landscaping, he stated that there will be conifers in the back, crab trees on the side and different plantings in front and in back of the sign to provide color throughout the year. Three burr oaks are also proposed to be added as a backdrop to the crabs. Councilmember Schneeman asked how durable the sign cabinet is. Mr. Peota responded that the cabinet is fabricated aluminum and will not rust over time. The paint finish is metal based and will weather like a car's finish. There is a ten year warranty on the finish before it will start to fade. The inside of the cabinet would have fluorescent illumination to light up the letters white at night with an opaque background that will be dark at night. Councilmember Dwyer stated that his notes were that the total cost of the sign project would be $50,000 and that there was a suggestion that if the city acts as general contractor there could be a 10% or 15% cost savings. He asked Mr. Peota to break down the costs. Mr. Peota reviewed a detailed list of estimated (budgeted) costs for each of the components of the proposed project. The total projected cost is $47,250, plus a contingency. Councilmember Dwyer stated that he has a concern about the city spending $50,.000 on a sign. He pointed out that he has expressed his concern in prior meetings about the policy decision and while it is a lovely design, he does not know that the city needs to spend $50,000 for a sign. He commented that even though TIF funding is available, there are many institutions in the city, such as the school district, that are having a tough time and he would have difficulty Page No. 4 January 19, 1999 spending this kind of money welcoming people to the city. He stated that he could perhaps support something less than half the projected cost, but could not support spending so much money. Councilmember Schneeman asked if Council envisions putting similar signs in the city. Councilmember Dwyer responded that Council has discussed putting a sign at the Mendota Bridge mirroring the Dodd/Mendota Heights Road sign. Mayor Mertensotto stated that there would probably be another two signs in the future. Councilmember Schneeman asked if the cost would be the same for future signs since the design is done. Mr. Peota responded that the costs would depend on the site - how much grading there would be and whether retaining walls would be needed. He explained that once the contract documents are done, there would only be a small fee to his firm for adjusting the sign to the other signs. Councilmember Krebsbach stated that part of the cost is really to create the setting for the sign. She felt Council could get cost for the actual sign down to half and that the minimum project that could be done would be the retaining wall, the sign and the base and some junipers around it. She pointed out that the plantings that are proposed are common to Mendota Heights. Mayor Mertensotto pointed out that Council has required that all buildings in the industrial area be finished on all sides and has spent a lot of time on landscaping. He stated that the city could probably install a wooden sign for $5,000 but if Council wishes to perpetuate the quality and image the city is trying to present, it will have to spend the money that is projected. He felt that some of the estimates are high and pointed out that there would be a savings if the city general contracts the project. Mr. Peota stated that his impression is that Council likes the sign. He stated that he is seeking approval for the final design and that the next step will be to get bid documents done, get some bids and know the hard numbers. He pointed out that the numbers that have been discussed are budget numbers and they may come down when the bids come in. Getting the bids won't cost anything and Council will Page No. 5 January 19, 1999 be able to look at what costs are associated with each of the components and can hone in on some areas where costs can be reduced. Councilmember Krebsbach stated that it would be helpful to know what part of the cost is for the retaining wall and the landscaping and what part is for the sign. $50,000 for a sign alone would be more than what the city would want, but the landscaping, etc., would finish off the corner and Council's decision could be that finishing the corner would be worth the additional $25,000 expense. If Council ultimately decides not to finish the site, there would still be a nice sign and a retaining wall. Councilmember Dwyer stated that while he was campaigning no one expressed need for a sign — they talked about helping out the school district, more parks, more trails, ballfield lights, street lights, etc. He wondered if there is support in the community for spending $50,000 or even $25,000 for a sign. Councilmember Huber stated that Council has been working on the design for a number of months and there is concern about the costs. He further stated that if it is Council's desire to go with a high quality sign, the one proposed is the one Council would go with. The question that remains is what level of investment Council wishes to make. He pointed out that the memo from the Public Works Director discusses preparing the bid documents and recommends approving another $750 for Sigma's preparation of the bid documents. He asked for Council's feeling about spending another $750 to prepare final bid documents without committing to going forward with the project. Councilmember Krebsbach felt that if there isn't support for that scale of project Council may not want to spend another $750. Councilmember Schneeman stated that she likes the design and loves the sign even though it is expensive. She asked if the city can do any of the construction work. Public Works Danielson responded that city staff does not have the expertise to do the work. Councilmember Dwyer pointed out that having Guy Kullander do the contracting would take him off his regular projects, so there is some question about how much money that would save. Page No. 6 January 19, 1999 Councilmember Huber stated there is the concept that this will not be the only sign. If Council is considering additional signs, the multiples go up fast. Councilmember Dwyer agreed, pointing out that instead of $50,000 the city would be spending $100,000 or $150,000 Mayor Mertensotto stated that Council does not have to commit to additional signs but has made the decision to go with an architect rather than going with a wood sign. He pointed out that as one travels around the state and country, when landscaping goes with a nice sign, it shows the level of care that goes into the city. He spoke about the expenses projected for extending electrical and the stone retaining wall. He stated that timbers could be used instead of stone for the retaining wall to reduce costs. He felt that the cost will be less than projected. If nothing is done it will remain a vacant two acre site. He pointed out that the city requires extensive landscaping in industrial projects and would not be paying homage to what it has been preaching to others for so long. Councilmember Krebsbach stated that her feeling is that if Council authorizes the additional $750, it would be committing tonight to supporting the concept and design and would pare down the costs after they are known. She pointed out that there is significant TIF available and other cities are investing more in boulevards and landscaping than Mendota Heights is. Mendota Heights is transitioning from rustic to more of a finished look, and that end of the city connects the site to the schools which have signage similar to the industrial area. Even though it is expensive, half of the cost is for the sign and the other half is for finishing the site. She supported both getting bids and doing the sign. Councilmember Dwyer stated that he would support $750 more for additional work by Signia that would tell Council whether this is closer to a $35,000 project. Councilmember Schneeman stated that she thinks it is necessary to spend another $750 to find out because Council has already made an investment in this project. Councilmember Huber stated that he has reservations, even if Council gets the cost down to $35,000 because there are still other signs to do. He stated that he will go along with additional $750 on the Signia contract but that he is not sure he could commit to $35,000 for the sign project if it can be reduced to that cost. Page No. 7 January 19, 1999 Councilmember Dwyer moved to authorize an amendment to the contract with Signia to allow an additional $750 for preparation of contract documents for bidding, to authorize Guy Kullander to act as general contractor and to authorize solicitation of bids with the understanding that ultimate approval of the project is reserved to a later date. Councilmember Schneeman seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 FRIENDLY HILLS MIDDLE Council acknowledged a memo from Administrative Assistant SCHOOL PLAYGROUND Hollister regarding a request for funding for playground equipment EQUIPMENT for the Friendly Hills Middle School. Ms. Linda Nides, and Ms. Beth Sevenich, representing the Friendly Hills Middle School PTA, and Ms. Liz Wynne, Principal of the middle school, were present for the discussion. Ms. Nides informed Council that she and Ms. Sevenich are spearheading a fundraising drive to build a middle school playground. She explained that $24,000 has been raised in four months with the intent to build a playground that is geared towards fifth through eighth graders. Total funding needed is $40,000 and $24,000 has been raised. She stated that the Parks and Recreation Commission has recommended that the city contribute $5,000 from a special fund, which matches the $5,000 commitment from the school district. The project is proposed in three phases. The parks commission requested that the $5,000 contribution, if it is approved, go to phase one, which is traditional playground equipment costing $20,000. Of the funding already raised, $15,000 is committed to Phase 1 and if the Council approves the Parks and Recreation Commission commitment, Phase 1 will be fully funded and will be installed in the coming spring. Phase 2 is seating and accessories — park benches, tables with seating, trash receptacles, and bike racks, etc. Phase 3 is Project Adventure, a team building rope challenge course. She stated that the intent is that the playground be open to the public. The city has set a precedent by supporting playground equipment at Mendota School. Responding to a question from Councilmember Schneeman, Ms. Nides stated that the $24,000 raised to date does not include the contribution recommended by the Parks Commission. She stated that the Parks and Recreation Commission has given a commitment to $5,000 and the PTA would also like to request an additional $5,000 from the City Council budget. Page No. 8 January 19, 1999 Councilmember Huber stated the Parks and Recreation Commission can only make recommendations to Council and does not have the authority to make expenditures. He further stated that when there are commission recommendations regarding park equipment and park land, Council asks the commission to recommend a funding source. The commission is recommending that funding for this proposal be from the Special Park Fund. Responding to a question from Mayor Mertensotto, Ms. Nides informed Council that Project Adventure would be used for school and community education programs and teachers would have to go through a training course and some of the rope courses would have to be taken down if trained supervisors were not going to be present. One of the Park Commission contingencies was that the contribution go just to Phase 1. Principal Wynne stated that when the group looked at putting together a playground, the group looked at the ages of the children in the school and the idea was to structure it so that the playground would not be competing with the neighborhood park equipment. Phase 1 is more of a fitness area as opposed to the traditional playground versus swings and saws, etc. Phase 2 is a social area, including picnic tables, where students can sit and socialize. Phase 3 is Project Adventure and staff members are already trained to supervise its use. The school is looking at using it in its physical education program. She stated that it is also excellent for children who are at risk and also for adults. In terms of concerns about students being on it unsupervised, there are several schools and camps that have the equipment. The apparatus is designed so parts can be removed, and signs will be posted as well. Historically, liability is very low. Mayor Mertensotto asked if community education will be charging students for Project Adventure. Ms. Wynne stated that although it is not something the group has yet discussed, since there are school people trained and qualified to supervise Project Adventure, she would like to provide the opportunity for use of the equipment through community education and also for organizations and small groups. Councilmember Krebsbach asked if the Project Adventure apparatus is used anywhere other than in a camp environment. Page No. 9 January 19, 1999 Ms. Wynne responded that the apparatus is set up and used successfully at the Eden Valley High School. She informed Council that the apparatus will be located up on the hill in the woods to the north of the bus area. Councilmember Schneeman asked if the apparatus would be fenced in. She stated that the apparatus would have to be supervised if neighborhood children would be using them, especially in the summertime. Ms. Wynne responded that a lot of the equipment is designed with detachable pieces. None of the area will not be fenced but there will be signage. At this point the school does not see a need to fence the area. Councilmember Schneeman stated that she is familiar with the truss ball component and kids could fall off it. Ms. Wynne responded that the school would have to carefully monitor the area initially to see if there are any problems. Councilmember Dwyer asked what phase the second $5,000 would be dedicated if the city contributes $5,000 from the general fund. Ms. Nides responded that $3,000 is still needed for Phase 2 and it might also be decided that pieces should be added to the traditional playground. Responding to a question from Councilmember Schneeman, Ms. Nides stated that the fundraisers went to the Mendota Elementary PTA and they have given a donation but they have not gone to the other elementary schools as yet. The City of Eagan has not been approached as yet. Mayor Mertensotto noted that Council has been informed that $15,000 in donations have been committed to Phase 1 and $9,000 has been committed to Phase 3 but nothing has been committed to Phase 2. Ms. Nides responded that the $5,000 from the school district has been dedicated to Phase 3 because more funds were committed by the business community to Phase I. The school district put no restrictions on its donation. Page No. 10 January 19, 1999 Ms Wynne stated that the experience has been that, in terms of some of the funds that have been collected, people feel more comfortable with donating to Phases 1 and 2 so it was the decision to apply the school district contribution to Phase 3. Mayor Mertensotto stated that his concern is that the PTA has a program going and there is a legitimate basis for it because the city has lots of equipment in its parks for the elementary aged children but does not have equipment in the parks for older children. He expressed concern about the letter from the PTA to the school district attorney regarding public access.. He stated that if the city makes a contribution, Council's intent is that the city residents will have access. He asked if the residents who participate in community education have to pay a fee also. He noted that Ms. Wynne has said that use of Phase 3 will require supervision by trained individuals and a certain amount of the equipment can be removed. He pointed out that since the school district will own the equipment, it will bear any liability. He stated that if the city is going to invest money, he does not want the investment to be based on a statement that this is planned and that is planned. He asked how much money is needed to complete the total project. Ms. Nides responded that with the $5,000 contribution from the city, $12,000 is still needed to complete the project. Ms. Wynne stated that if there were additional funds, there would be more money to apply towards Phase 3. No more money can be added to Phase 1 because there is not sufficient space for additional equipment. Responding to a question from Mayor Mertensotto, she stated that if there is a commitment for the $16,000 that is still needed, all three phases will be completed. Mayor Mertensotto asked how much of the remaining unfunded $16,000 the PTA thinks it can raise. Ms. Nides responded that she believes the larger donations have been received. The PTA applied for a grant from Dakota County but it fell through. She felt that the PTA can possibly fundraise another $2,000 this year and will continue the drive next year. Mayor Mertensotto asked if the PTA is asking for $5,000 from the Special Park Fund and another $10,000 from the city. Ms. Nides responded that $24,000 has been collected, so $16,000 more is needed. Page No. 11 January 19, 1999 Mayor Mertensotto asked, if the city contributes an additional $10,000 in addition to $5,000 from the Special Park Fund, if the school board will commit themselves to say that it will take no action to prevent community use of the property. Ms. Wynne responded that she would take that matter to the school board. Mayor Mertensotto stated that there is justification for the commitment, because the city spent about $850,000 for the Henry Sibley High School athletic complex and the response he got one time about having additional cooperation in the use of that facility was that the city signed a bad contract. He stated that if Council decides to donate money to improving the Friendly Hills Middle School playground facilities, they have to be open for public use outside of school hours without any prohibition on public use. He recommended contributing the $5,000 and another $10,000 but the $10,000 would be conditioned upon the school board making that commitment. Councilmember Huber stated that his concern about guaranteeing access is that the city would be committing money to the portion of the project that requires supervision. He did not know whether the current school board can commit future staffing. Mayor Mertensotto responded that the city could commit the funds to Phases 1 and 2 with the condition that they be open to the public when they are not being used for school activities. Ms. Nides stated that the school district has guaranteed taking on the liability and future maintenance. Councilmember Huber stated that he does not know that the city needs a guarantee to access to the phases 1 and 2 facilities because they will be open to the people passing by. Ms. Nides stated that she understands the Mayor's concerns about past commitments and what the PTA wants is a playground for the students and something that is open to the community. She stated that a contingency could be placed on the contribution and she can take that matter to the school board. Councilmember Dwyer suggested approving the $5,000 from the Special Park Fund to complete Phase 1 as recommended and donate Page No. 12 January 19, 1999 $3,000 from the General Fund to be dedicated to completion of Phase 2 and let Project Adventure stand on its on feet. Councilmember Schneeman stated that the $5,000 from the school district is only for Phase 3. Ms. Nides stated that the board did not dedicate its contribution to any phase Responding to a question from Councilmember Schneeman about the Heritage Middle School, she stated that this is a Friendly Hills PTA sponsored fund raiser in Mendota Heights for the Friendly Hills Middle School and Mendota Heights residents. Ms. Wynne stated that the district will treat the facility as it does the ball fields, tennis courts, etc. which are open to the public when not being used by the schools. Councilmember Krebsbach stated that Phase 3 does depend on staffing and asked if it is anticipated that there will always be available. i Ms. Wynne stated that she feels it will because the phy ed teachers are trained to supervise Project Adventure and there will always be phy ed at the school Through the school, programs can be offered for family type events and also through community education where the school's instructors will instruct. Ms. Nides stated that the school could work with the city as it does now on the golf program, and other recreation programs. Ms. Wynne stated that if the school is were fortunate enough to have this opportunity she will seek out opportunities to maximize use of the apparatus. She stated that the school would be very receptive to organizations with the only concern that whoever is supervising is qualified to do it. Mayor Mertensotto stated that if the city were to contribute $15,000 Council would want the assurance that all three phases would be completed and would also need assurance that the playground would be open to the community. Councilmember Krebsbach stated that should another organization within the city develop trained staffing, they would then be able to l use the Phase 3 equipment. That is the only way there would be access to Phase 3. Page No. 13 January 19, 1999 Responding to a question about charges for use of Project Adventure, Ms. Nides stated that if, for example, another middle school or other organization wanted to use it, there would be some charge for the staffing but not for the use of the apparatus. The charge would be to compensate the instructor for coming in after hours. Councilmember Huber restated the various proposals. Mayor Mertensotto stated that he would like to see the project completed because the city does not have a park that has the proposed types of facilities. There was discussion over potential liability, and it was noted that Council can require that it be a named insured on the school's insurance policy. Councilmember Huber stated that he has a problem with Phase 3 because he does not know how access can be guaranteed and there is no guarantee that it will always be staffed. He had no question about funding the completion of phases one and two. Councilmember Dwyer stated that the school's stated goals to help children in crises through the Phase 3 portion are good, that is not a goal that city's would ordinarily foster. Councilmember Krebsbach suggested donating $5,000 each to Phase 1 and 2. Mayor Mertensotto agreed, stating that funds already committed could be transferred to Phase 3. Councilmember Dwyer moved that the City Council accept the recommendation of the Parks and Recreation Commission and dedicate $5,000 to Phase 1 and that council donate $3,000 from the general fund contingency to the completion of Phase 2 with the understanding that those phases be accessible to the general public outside of regular school hours. Councilmember Schneeman seconded the motion. Mayor Mertensotto expressed concern unless the school board assents to accessibility to the general public, access to the public is not guaranteed. Page No. 14 January 19, 1999 Responding to a question about whether there is anything in the design that would restrict someone from using Phase 1 and 2 equipment, Ms. Wynne stated that the Phase 1 and 2 will not be fenced in. They will be placed in the area adjacent to the basketball courts in a wide open area and will have access from the bike trail and other accesses. The only time there would be students in the summer would be if summer school is held, and access to the playgrounds would be available. She stated that the project would be for the kids, and for the community. She could think of no way it would not be accessible to the general public. Councilmember Huber stated that he shares the concerns Mayor Mertensotto has about what happened at Sibley but this (Phases 1 and 2) is not the kind of equipment where people will schedule use of it. It is a very unstructured use type of playground. Councilmember Krebsbach stated that keeping the statement in the motion about access is important, so that any letter to the school board would contain the text of the motion and the funds would be contingent upon access to the public. Mayor Mertensotto pointed out that if someone gets hurt in the area, the school district could say that it cannot be used by the public and call the police department to keep people out. He stated that the city could donate the $5,000 from the Special Park Fund for Phase 1 and there should be a resolution from the school board that if the city contributes the extra money the board will commit to not imposing any rule or regulation that would prohibit public access and use of the facilities outside of school hours. Councilmember Krebsbach stated that she would rather designate the $8,000 and send a copy of the motion and release of the funds would be based on the school district responding that they can accept the conditions within the motion. Councilmember Dwyer restated the motion as follows: that the city donate $8,000 towards Phase 1 and Phase 2 with the understanding that it is tendered to the school district with the condition that the school board, by motion at a school board meeting, agrees that phases 1 and 2 will be open and accessible and with the understanding that the donation will not be made until the city receives the school board resolution. Ayes:5 Nays: 0 Page No. 15 January 19, 1999 RMF CONTRACT Council acknowledged a memo from Public Works Director Danielson regarding a proposed contract for services for preparation of a concept plan for redevelopment of the Freeway Road area. Council also acknowledged a proposal for Master Plan Services from Mr. Ross Fefercorn, from RMF Enterprises. Mr. Fefercorn was present for the discussion. Mr. Fefercorn referred to his letter to the city dated November 25, 1998 which summarizes what he proposes to do with the site. He briefly reviewed the credentials of the group he will be working with, which include Nelson Tremain Partnership, A Studio and RMF Entities. He explained that Nelson Tremain and A Studio will help him make a recommendation on what should be done with the site. The proposal for services includes an outline with three major areas: collection and gathering of information about the city and the site (Phase I); taking that information and developing two conceptual master plan alternates for presentation to the City Council and city staff (Phase II); and, taking to a greater level of definition one of those two plans. He stated that this could be a $30 to $35 million development for the city, so the city should easily be able to recapture TIF from tax revenues. He explained that he would put together a bound report putting together everything his group has done in the process, and the city would have that documentation as the project moves forward to reality. Councilmember Huber asked if Mr. Fefercorn has any idea of approximately how long it will take to complete the three phases. Mr. Fefercorn responded that he would hope it would be a four to six month process and that it will be no greater than six months. Councilmember Huber stated that if Mr. Fefercorn would like to get through all thee phases by the end of summer, he will need some commitment from Council to keep that schedule. Councilmember Krebsbach asked where there are examples of the work that Mr. Fefercorn has led that Council could see. Mr. Fefercorn responded that he included a resume of his work in the original proposal. He informed Council that over the past several years he has done over a dozen housing developments and probably close to 1,000 units of market rate housing. Basically over the years he has built separate housing developments and separate retail developments and the city's project envisions wedding those uses. Page No. 16 January 19, 1999 Councilmember Krebsbach asked is there a development Mr. Fefercorn knows of that might be what he is envisioning. Mr. Fefercorn responded that most urban cities have something like what he is referring to, such as the Uptown area of Minneapolis which has a mix of housing, retail and services, which has all of the components. Also there is a site in Kansas City. In Minnetonka, CSM Corporation and Rottlund Homes are working on a project, but that is somewhat more commercial. Mayor Mertensotto stated that when Council first met with Mr. Fefercorn the discussion was to complete the three phases in four to six months because Council knew an extension on the Comprehensive Plan amendment deadline would be needed and Council wants the Freeway Road area addressed in the amendment. He stated that when the name Nelson Tremain first came up the city got public comments that Council was looking at affordable housing for the project site and that is not true. There will be an opportunity for community input in Phase II. Council is hiring Mr. Fefercorn to develop an overall development plan for what would be best for the site. He asked what whether reimbursable expenses could be limited to 10% of the contract. Mr. Fefercorn responded that he will let Council know about reimbursable expenses as they are incurred and he could set a limit of ten. percent. Reimbursables would be printing, reproduction costs etc. Councilmember Dwyer stated that the proposed service contract fee is $26,000 and he does not know if that is reasonable or not but what Mr. Fefercorn is planning to undertake seems like a lot of work for the price. Councilmember Schneeman stated that this is probably the most exciting thing that has happened in Mendota Heights for a long time People have been waiting for something to be done, and when she was campaigning the number one question that was asked of her was about downtown Mendota Heights. Mr. Fefercorn responded that it needs to be an interesting place for people to gather. City Attorney Hart stated that as a contract interpretation matter he sees that there is a not to exceed figure and a termination clause on 30 day notice and billing on a monthly basis, but it must be pro rated Page No. 17 January 19, 1999 based on work completed on a certain percentage of the total project. If there is a huge amount of work done in the first phase, the city would not want to be billed on that basis but rather on the percentage of the total project that has been completed. Unless there is a revision, the majority of the work could be done in the first two months and the city could have paid for it and have nothing on paper. He recommended that there be a statement in the contract that the city will be billed on a monthly basis based on the percentage of the project that has been completed or some language that would make payment on an equitable pro ration basis not to exceed time and materials. Mr. Fefercorn responded that some of the work they will be doing will be behind the scene and to the extent that there is a thirty day notice he will have a point of stopping the work being done and billing for the work done an a progressive basis, so revised language should be acceptable. Mayor Mertensotto stated that the contract also has to be amended to include the cap on reimbursable expenses. Mr. Fefercom informed Council that Phase I will go by before he has any meetings with Council but his group will be meeting with city staff. Mayor Mertensotto asked that the revised contract include language relating to what the anticipated percentage of the total cost will be for each of the phases. Councilmember Schneeman moved to authorize the Mayor to execute the Proposal for Master Plan Services with RMF Enterprises, amended to include a 10% cap on reimbursable expenses and inclusion of language recommended by the City Attorney with respect to equitable pro ration of billing. Councilmember Krebsbach seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 CDBG REALLOCATION Council acknowledged a memo from Administrator Batchelder regarding reallocation of funds from the 1996 Senior Housing site acquisition along with letters from Mr. Lee Smith, Dakota County HRA, and Mary's Shelter. It was noted that $8,343.62 in 1996 CDBG funding that had been allocated to senior housing site acquisition was not needed for the project and can be reallocated to another use. Page No. 18 January 19, 1999 Mayor Mertensotto stated that Mary's Shelter has been before Council for CDBG funding but they were not specific as to their administrative costs and their budget program was open ended. He felt that the $8,300 should be added to the city's commitment to facilitate low income housing repairs including hook -ups of utilities on a loan basis. Councilmember Dwyer stated that Council has the choices of rolling the $8,300 into the city's housing rehabilitation loan program which has $45,000 in funding from the 1999 CDBG grant or dedicating that $8,300 to Mary's Shelter in response to its request for funding assistance. He recommended dedicating the money to Mary's Shelter, which he feels is a very worthy cause. Councilmember Huber pointed out that the third option is to dedicate the funding to assist four home owners in the Furlong area with the cost of extending water service to their homes. Councilmember Schneeman stated that she would like to have someone from Mary's Shelter come before Council. She stated that over the past several weeks in the news, there have been many cases of families who needed shelter and ended up dying because they did not have it. Mendota Heights is just like every other community and has residents who need the transitional housing that Mary's Shelter provides. She pointed out that other Dakota County cities are helping Mary's Shelter and felt that Mendota Heights should also help them. Responding to a question from Councilmember Schneeman about whether there are other transitional housing providers in Dakota County for women and children, Police Chief Johnson stated that the Robert B. Lewis House also provides shelter for battered women and children. Mayor Mertensotto responded that Council should see a budget showing where the money would go before making a decision to donate funds to them. He noted that many organizations have come before Council for funding and use of HRA funding must be a priority situation and the city must know what the money would go for. Councilmember Dwyer stated that the HRA CDBG funds are related to housing needs and the residents at Mary's Shelter come from Mendota Heights as well as from other Dakota County cities. Page No. 19 January 19, 1999 Responding to a question from Councilmember Huber, Administrator Batchelder stated that there is no current information on where the city stands on use of the CDBG housing rehabilitation loan money. He informed Council that the 1998 allocation became available in July and in December there were a couple of applications pending. The 1999 allocation of $45,000 was dedicated into low income housing rehabilitation and from time to time money revolves back into the program from prior loans. Councilmember Krebsbach stated that she would like to get a better handle on available funding. She would like to get information on the larger picture on shelters in Dakota County. Also she stated that she would like to know if the city's LIRA funding has gone to people whose needs were hidden and the city was able to help them through these funds, which would be a good use for the money. Mayor Mertensotto responded that the prior request from Mary's Shelter was for capital improvements for a building but Council has had no subsequent contact from them. He pointed out that the city has been building a reserve fund in its housing rehabilitation loan program because as loans are paid back or the property is sold, the money goes back into the rehab fund. Councilmember Schneeman asked if the city knows that people in the Furlong area will qualify for funding assistance for water extension. Councilmember Huber stated that more information is needed. Information is needed on: how much the Furlong water extensions might cost; an update on home loan rehabilitation requests; and, staff could get information on what the current status is with Mary's Shelter and perhaps someone from Dakota County could speak about shelter services in the county. Responding to a question from Councilmember Huber, Administrator Batchelder responded that the $8300 is money left over from the senior housing project and until Council reallocates the money he assumes the county will hold it for us Councilmember Huber stated that when staff gets to the point where it can make a presentation on the water extensions in Furlong, that would be a trigger to the City Administrator that Council would like to see more information on shelter services either specifically for Page No. 20 January 19, 1999 Mary's Shelter or all shelter services in Dakota County and a decision can be made at that time on where to spend the money. BOURN PROPERTY Council acknowledged a memo from Treasurer Shaughnessy regarding acquisition of the Bourn property at 1181 Bourn Lane, along with a copy of a life estate agreement that was executed with the prior owner of the property adjacent to the Fire Station. Mayor Mertensotto stated that Council needs more demographics, such as the age of the property owner. He also asked what would happen if the city had a development proposal for the area while the life estate is in effect — could there be a clause that the agreement would terminate in six months if there is a development proposal. Treasurer Shaughnessy responded that he just provided a copy of the agreement with the owner of the property adjacent to the fire hall as a sample to be used in this case. In this instance, he did not feel that the life estate would run as long for various reasons. He further stated that he thinks it is less likely that the city will acquire one of the remaining Bourn Drive properties. In order to redevelop, the city must get an agreement with Resurrection so that there would be a large enough parcel to develop. City Attorney Hart stated that a buy -out provision on the life estate would be advisable, and it would be advisable to establish the value of an appropriate buy -out amount up front through a written understanding. Mayor Mertensotto stated that there should be some nominal payment to terminate the agreement after six months if there is a valid redevelopment proposal. City Attorney Hart and Treasurer Shaughnessy were directed to revise the proposed agreement life estate agreement based on the adjustments as discussed this evening. COUNCIL COMMENTS Mayor Mertensotto stated that he received a call from Mr. Seymour at 1080 Twin Circle who stated that every year he complains that he has his driveway plowed and sometime during the day the city plows the cul de sac and fills up the end of his driveway. Public Works Director Danielson responded that cul de sacs are a real problem especially if there are a lot of driveways and there is no place to put the snow. The main plow comes through and then the pick -up comes through later. He stated that he will look into the Page No. 21 January 19, 1999 matter with the Public Works Supervisor to see if they can come up with a solution. Responding to a question from Councilmember Huber regarding the status of the ski trail, Assistant Hollister stated that he believes that because there was no snow soon enough for the high school ski team, they are so far into their season now that they have abandoned the concept of using Par 3. Also the snowmobile they had wished to purchase does not work and will not be purchased. Mayor Mertensotto directed Assistant Hollister to give Council a memo on the status of the ski trail and snowmobile purchase issue and a recommendation that Council rescind the funds that were allocated from the General Fund for the purchase of the snowmobile. ADJOURN There being no further business to come before Council, Councilmember Schneeman moved that the meeting be adjourned to the Comprehensive Plan workshop that was scheduled for this evening, with subsequent adjournment to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 2 for closed session discussion on litigation. Councilmember Krebsbach seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 TIME OF ADJOURNMENT: 9:25 p.m. K thleen M. Swanson City Clerk Charles E. Mertensotto Mayor Page No. 1 January 5, 1999 CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY STATE OF MINNESOTA Minutes of the Regular Meeting Held Tuesday, January 5, 1999 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. Mayor Mertensotto called the meeting to order at 7:30 o'clock P.M. The following members were present: Mayor Mertensotto, Councilmembers Dwyer, Huber, Krebsbach and Schneeman. OATH OF OFFICE The City Clerk administered the Oath of Office to Mayor Mertensotto and Councilmembers Dwyer and Schneeman. AGENDA ADOPTION Councilmember Huber moved adoption of the agenda for the meeting. Councilmember Krebsbach seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 APPROVAL OF MINUTES Councilmember Dwyer moved approval of the minutes of the regular meeting held on December 15, 1998 as amended. Councilmember Krebsbach seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 CONSENT CALENDAR Councilmember Huber moved approval of the consent calendar for the meeting, along with authorization for execution of any necessary documents contained therein. a. Acknowledgment of the Building Activity Report for December, 1998. b. Acknowledgment of the minutes of the Planning Commission meeting held on December 22, 1998. c. Acknowledgment of the unapproved minutes of the December 2, 1998 NDC4 Commission meeting and the December 9, 1998 NDC4 Executive Committee meeting.. Page No. 2 January 5, 1999 d. Acknowledgment of information regarding the 1997/98 LMCIT insurance dividend. e. Acknowledgment of notification of the resignation of Recreation Programmer Bill Bird and authorization for staff to commence the process to recruit a replacement. f. Adoption of Resolution No. 99-01, "RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING 1999 CITY DEPOSITORIES OF FUNDS." g. Adoption of Resolution No. 99-02, "RESOLUTION ACCEPTING PLEDGED SECURITIES FOR 1999." h. Approval of the issuance of a sign permit for a Pharmacy Drive- Up sign for Snyders Drug Store at 750 Highway 110. i. Approval of the Dakota County Assessor's request to schedule the annual Board of Review for 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 6, 1999. j. Authorization to execute a letter dated December 23, 1998 from Northwest Asphalt as formal acceptance of a settlement proposal with respect to Bunker Hills area improvements and to approve "Application and Certification Certificate for Payment No. 7." k. Acknowledgment of an explanation of the MPRS settlement from Mr. Charles LeFevere, Attorney for MPRS. 1. Acknowledgment of receipt of information regarding the Metropolitan Growth Issues Conference and the National League of Cities Annual Conference. in. Approval of the list of contractor licenses dated January 5, 1999 and attached hereto. n. Approval of the List of Claims dated January 5, 1999 and totaling $363,143-68. Councilineiriber Dwyer seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 SERVICE AWARDS Mayor Mertensotto presented awards to the following city employees in recognition of their years of service to the city: John Maczko for twenty years of service and Kimberlee Blaeser, Edward Page No. 3 January 5, 1999 Adrian and Keith Stein for fifteen years of service. Michael Maczko, who was not present, was also recognized for fifteen years of service. Mayor Mertensotto presented plaques to former Councilmernbers Christine Koch and Jill Smith in recognition of their eight years of service to the city. ARC APPOINTMENT Mayor Mertensotto stated that he has asked former Councilmember Smith if she would be willing to continue to serve as a city representative to the MASAC and that he has asked her to also serve as an ad hoc member of the city's Airport Relations Commission. He further stated as an ad hoc commission member, she would be entitled to receive the same monthly per them as other commission members. Councilmember Dwyer moved to appoint Jill Smith as an ad hoc member of the Airport Relations Commission and to continue her appointment as a city representative to the MASAC. Councilmember Krebsbach seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 ACTING MAYOR Mayor Mertensotto nominated Councilmember Krebsbach to serve as Acting Mayor in 1999 and stated that he will nominate Councilmember Huber to serve as Acting Mayor for the year 2000. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 Councilmember Dwyer moved that Councilmember Krebsbach be appointed to serve as Acting Mayor during any absences of the Mayor in 1999. Councilmember Huber seconded the motion. Mayor Mertensotto stated that, beginning with the second regular meeting in January, he will begin a program whereby one member of 0 the Council will serve as the chair of the second meeting of each month. It was determined that Councilmember Huber will chair the January 19 meeting, followed on a monthly basis by Councilmembers Krebsbach, Dwyer and Schneeman. OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER Council acknowledged letters from Lillie Suburban Newspapers and Minnesota Sun Publications requesting designation as the official city newspaper for 1999. Council also acknowledged a memo from Page No. 4 January 5, 1999 the City Clerk recommending that the Southwest Review (Lillie Suburban Newspapers) be designated as the official newspaper on the basis of its significantly lower rates per column inch. Councilmember Huber moved to appoint the Southwest Review as the city's official newspaper for 1999. Councilmember Schneeman seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 CDBG APPOINTMENT Council acknowledged a memo from Administrator Batchelder regarding the need for a Council appointment to the CDBG Review Board. Mayor Mertensotto informed the Council that Councilmember Dwyer has expressed interest in being appointed to the Board and recommended his appointment. Councilmember Krebsbach moved to appoint Councilmember Dwyer to serve as the city's representative on the Dakota County HRA's Community Development Block Grant Review Board. Councilmember Huber seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 NDC-4 APPOINTMENT Council acknowledged a memo from Administrator Batchelder regarding appointments to the NDC-4 Cable Commission. Councilmember Krebsbach moved to reappoint Councilmember Huber as the City Council representative and Mr. Mike Sokol as the Citizen representative to serve on the Northern Dakota County Cable Communications Commission for two year terms effective January 1999 through December 2000. Councilmember Schneeman seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 CASE NO. 98-41, ROYAL Council acknowledged an application from Royal Redeemer REDEEMER Lutheran Church for a conditional use permit to operate a day care facility at the church. Council also acknowledged associated staff reports. Reverend Connie Macalester, from Royal Redeemer, and the project contractor, Jerry Petschen, were present for the discussion. Page No. 5 January 5, 1999 Mayor Mertensotto expressed concern over the Planning Commission recommendation that there be no more than ten employees to supervise the maximum of 52 children. He pointed out that the state has control over day care licensing, and it is not within the purview of the city to tell the church that it must limit to ten the number of adults who can supervise the children. Councilmember Dwyer agreed, stating that if the city has a concern about the size of facility, it is not about the number of employees. He stated that the number of children using the facility drives the space need and Council can limit the allowable number of children to 52 and however many adult supervisors the state requires. Paster Macalester informed Council that the facility space and rest rooms are adequate for no more than 52 children at one time and that when the Planning Commission asked about how many employees there would be she responded that there would be approximately 10. She stated that the number of staff members will depend on the number of children in each age group and the requirements set by the state for how many adults there must be. Councilmember Krebsbach stated that as long as there are no safety or traffic circulation concerns and the number of children is limited to 52 because of the size of the facility, she has no concerns about the proposal. Councilmember Huber stated that he understands from the documentation provided to Council that the facility will be available to children whether their families are members of the congregation or not. Pastor Macalester responded that the day care will be open to anyone who is interested. She informed Council that the church eventually hopes to construct an addition with a fellowship hall and will then be looking at options for traffic flow to make things better for the church and its neighbors. She stated that she has been in contact with Dakota's Adults about the potential for a relocated shared access on Victoria which would be a benefit to everyone because there are safety issues with the existing access to Dakota's Adults. She also informed Council that the church is working on the sign lighting issue in response to comments expressed by a neighbor at the Planning Commission meeting. She stated that she was caught off guard by the comments because the neighbor has never contacted anyone at the church to express his concerns. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 Page No. 6 January 5, 1999 Mayor Mertensotto asked Pastor Macalester to meet with Police Chief Johnson regarding the access relocation to work out any potential safety problems in advance. Councilmember Dwyer moved adoption of Resolution No. 99 -03, "A RESOLUTION APPROVING BUILDING PERMIT AUTHORIZATION AND A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR A DAY CARE FACILITY FOR ROYAL REDEEMER LUTHERAN CHURCH," revised to remove the limitation on the number of employees, and to direct that church representatives work with the city's code enforcement department regarding building permit issuance for any necessary minor internal modifications. Councilmember Schneeman seconded the motion. Responding to a question from Councilmember Krebsbach, Pastor Macalester stated that the church will install landscaping around the base of the sign as Council has required but that the sign was installed so late in the season that planting has not yet been done. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Council acknowledged a memo from Administrator Batchelder WORKSHOP regarding the need to schedule an orientation workshop on the comprehensive plan with Northwest Associated Consultants. Councilmember Krebsbach moved to convene the January 19 regular City Council meeting to a comprehensive plan workshop at 9:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible. Councilmember Schneeman seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 CARD GARAGE Mayor Mertensotto appointed Councilmembers Krebsbach and Schneeman to serve as a Council committee to work on the J. Card conditional use permit issue and to prepare a recommendation for Council for resolution of the matter. CABLE ISSUES Councilmember Huber informed Council that the cable commission is proposing to do a $15,000 study on whether an I -net should be considered for people in NDC -4. At the December commission meeting, two or three of the city representatives had concerns because of costs (for requiring the cable vendor) to provide I -net capability and whether the member would use it. He stated that the commission is now negotiating a franchise to become effective in March, 2000, and if the cities want I -net it would have to be included in the current negotiations. He informed Council that the Page No. 7 January 5, 1999 commission would like feedback from the member cities and that NDC -4 will soon send a formal request for each city to review I -net potential. He explained that the commission is concerned that if the franchise agreement requires I -net, the costs will ultimately be passed on to the cable customers. Administrator Batchelder stated that he has met with Jodi Miller from NDC4 regarding I -net and that there is some excitement among city staff about the ability I -net would provide for communication between city buildings and the ability to connect to other public agencies. He stated that it is very likely the city would put I -net to use before the end of the franchise and there are some issues from a public safety standpoint where I -net could be used right away. I -net might also enhance the city's telephone communications significantly. Councilmember Krebsbach stated that if I -net would enhance the city's ability to communicate between public facilities it should be considered. She also felt that the city should look at other options as well. Responding to a question from Councilmember Schneeman, Councilmember Huber stated that the cost of the study has been budgeted by NDC4 so there will not be a cost to the city for the study. Councilmember Huber stated that he will recommend that the cable commission go ahead with the study and will advise them that Council has questions and will likely have more questions as the process goes on. STREET LIGHT Councilmember Krebsbach informed Council that she has spoken to residents in the Veronica/Hunter neighborhood about the street light that they had requested to inform them that the light would be on from night to light. The neighbors indicated that they still would like the light installed because they are concerned about the safety of the children who must wait in darkness for school buses at the intersection. Engineer Marc Mogan informed Council that NSP will install the light at the city's request and the city has traditionally paid the expense for operation of residential street lights. Page No. 8 January 5, 1999 Councilmember Krebsbach moved to direct staff to proceed with installation of a street light at the intersection of Veronica Lane and Hunter Lane. Councilmember Schneeman seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 It was noted that Council will look at future requests for street lights on a case by case basis and if they are justified, the city will pay the associated energy costs. ADJOURN There being no further business to come before Council, Councilmember Krebsbach moved that the meeting be adjourned. Councilmember Huber seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 TIME OF ADJOURNMENT: 8:45 o'clock p.m. --Kathleen M. Swanson City Clerk Charles E. Mertensotto Mayor LIST OF CONTRACTORS TO BE APPROVED BY CITY COUNCIL January 5, 1999 . Asphalt Contractor License Asphalt Driveway Company Daily & Son Blacktopping, Inc. Northwest Bituminous, Inc. Concrete /Masonry Contractor License A & B Cement Construction, Inc. Andrette Bros Concrete Systems, Inc. DayCo Concrete Company, Inc. Gresser Concrete/masonry Hicks Concrete Construction Inc. Kelleher Construction, Inc. Larry Metsala Construction Molin Concrete Products Company Neeck Construction, Inc. Poured Foundations, Inc. Schlagel Masonry Troyco Concrete & Masonry Inc. Viking Concrete & Masonry, Inc. John J. Vruno Masonry Charles Zwinger Inc. Excavatina Contractor License D & M Contracting Johnson Excavating LeRoux Excavating Inc. Rauchwarter Inc. Royal Excavating, Inc. Rycon, Inc. Scherff, Inc. Stocker Excavating Company, Inc. Sun Excavating Inc. United Water & Sewer Co. Voson Plumbing, Inc. Weierke Trenching & Excavating Co. Gas Piping Contractor License Allied.Fireside Apollo Heating & Vent. Corp. Area Mechanical, Inc. Earl Arneson Jr Heating & A/C Associated Mechanical Contractors Inc. Automatic Garage Door & Fireplaces A. Binder & Son Inc. Bonfe's Plumbing & Heating Services Egan Mechanical Contractors, Inc. Erickson Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Inc. Five Star Plumbing, Inc. Gas Line Plus, Inc. Genz-Ryan Plumbing & Heating Co. Inc. G R Mechanical Plumbing & Heating Contractor, Inc. Harris Companies Heating & Cooling Two Inc. Lakeside Plumbing & Heating, Inc. Metropolitan Mechanical Contractors, Inc. Minnegasco Jim Murr Plumbing, Inc. Newman Mechanical, Inc. Ron's Mechanical, Inc. Rouse Mechanical Inc. Sedgwick Heating & Air Conditioning Co. Standard Heating & Air Conditioning Co. Valley Aire, Inc. Vogt Heating & Air Conditioning Wohlers Southside Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. Yale, Inc. HVAC Contractor License Apollo Heating & Vent. Corp. Area Mechanical, Inc. Earl Arneson Jr Heating & A/C Associated Mechanical Contractors, Inc. A. Binder & Son Inc. Centraire, Inc. Egan Mechanical Contractors, Inc. Erickson Plumbing Heating & Cooling Inc. Genz-Ryan Plumbing & Heating Co Inc. Harris Companies Heating & Cooling Two Inc. Home Energy Center Horwitz Inc. Kath Heating & A/C Krinkie Heating & Air Conditioning Metropolitan Mechanical Contractors, Inc. Minnegasco Jim Murr Plumbing, Inc. Ron's Mechanical, Inc. Rouse Mechanical Inc. Sedgwick Heating & Air Conditioning Co. The Snelling Co., Inc. South Town Refrigeration Inc. Standard Heating & Air conditioning Co. Valley Aire, Inc. Vogt Heating & Air Conditioning Wohlers Southside Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. Yale, Inc. General Contractor License Advance Construction Company Befort Roofing, Inc. Berg Drywall, Inc. Bissonett Construction Services Inc. Brin Northwestern Glass Co. Robert Carr & Associates, Inc. B. L. Dalsin Roofing Company Duke Construction Limited Partnership Fendler Construction, Inc. Gas Line Plus, Inc. Heartland Industries, Inc. J & D Builders, Inc. KMH Erectors, Inc. Lilyholm & Lilyholm, Inc. McPhillips Bros. Roofing Company New C.C. Inc. Nordic Insulation,Inc. Omega Construction Inc. Quality Drywall Inc. Russnick Contractors Inc. Ryan Companies US, Inc. Schindler Elevator Corp. Single-Ply Systems, Inc. Specialty Systems, Inc. Western Steel Erection, Inc. Drywall Contractor License Custom Drywall, Inc. Olympic Wall Systems, Inc. Pro Drywall, Inc. RFL Construction RTL Construction, Inc. Varland Drywall, Inc. Charles Zwinger Inc. Sign Contractor License Lawrence Sign SignArt Company, Inc. Sign Source, Inc. Suburban Lighting Inc. Landscaping/Tree Service Contractor License. Lawrence Tree Removal Rubbish Hauler License Aagar d Sanitation Inc. BFI Waste Systems of North America, Inc. Highland Sanitation & Recycling Inc. Krupenny & Sons Disposal Service Inc. Mendota Heights Rubbish Service Inc. Triangle Rubbish Service and Recycling Waste Management Inc. of Minnesota