06/09/1965 - 00022078�46
ADSDURNMENT;
There Ueing no further business, P4ayor Nee declared the meeting ad�ourned at
11:27 P M.
Respectiully submitted,
�,` �� r , ��
�c���.'.,� �����— ,� "�-`
Raymond E. Bade William J. N e
Secretary to the Council Mayor �
THE MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 9 1965
A special meeting of the Council�of the City of Fridley was called to order
by Mayor Nee at 8:15 P.M.
ROLL CALL:
Members Presrnt; Nee, Kirkham, Thompson
Members Absent; Wright Sheridan
CONTINUED HEARING ON DEMOLITION - 584 RICE CREEK TERRACE (TABLED 6/4/65):
Mayor Nee asked who is concerned with the d�molition hearing on the property
of Leo S Aiedron. Leo 5. Biedron was present at the Council meeting Phillip J
Stern, attorney for Leo S. Biedron was present Dean Johnson attorney for the
IItah I-Io:n.e Fire Insurance Company, stated that he was interested in the demolition
of the Biedron home and wished to speak to the Council concerning thls matter �
Mayor Nee inquired of the parties whether there have Ueen any new developments
since the last Council action on demolition of the home. Mr. Sohnson said that
there had been no settlement, but that he had a contractor's estimate which he
wished to transmit to Mr Biedron and to his attorney, Mayor Nee asked Dean
,Tohnson whether he wished to bring any witnesses before the Council. Dean Sohnson
said, "No," he only wished to protide Mr Biedron with an estimate for rebuilding
his home, and wished to have the Council informed of the amount of the-estimate as
well as Mr Biedron's attorney. The City Attorney inquired whether the home had
been reinspected since the last Council meeting. Mayor Nee answered °Yes"
Mayor Nee asked the City Building Inspector to give the Council the History of the
inspections of the home, Allen Jensen informed the Council that the home had
been inspected on May 28, 1965. He outlined the damage to the home as a result
of the tornado. On June 9, 1965, Mr. Jenseq, Mr. Flynn and Mr G�isen, structural
engineer, reinspected the home and found the damage to be sufficient to require
total demolition of the home to the deck and repair of the foundation hefore the
home could be rebuilt to comply with the City Codes.
Mayor Nee asked Mr Geisen to give his report of the inspection Mr Geisen �
reported on the inspection made on June 9th He listed additionel items to the
report of Mr Jensen of damages to the property, namely, that the house has been
shiited north and west, a floor �oist over the furnace is fractured and the
house has sustained substantial damage to the floor an@ the structure The north-
west bedroom wall is pulled from the floor and extensive damage has been done to
the inside of the house Mayor Nee Asked Geisen whether he found the strucuture ,
unsafe for habiaLition and Mr. Ceisen answered, "Yes." Mayor Nee asked
Mr Geisen whether he is familiar with the City Codes or the BOC requirements,
Mr Ceisen answered, "Yes " Mayor Nee asked Mr Geisen to state his qualifications
Mr Geisen replied that he is licensed, structural engineer with consideraUle
experience in the home construction field. Mayor Nee asked Mr. Geisen whether
the home could be repr�ired Mr. Geisen answered that the home could not be
repaired without demolishing the structure to the deck and rebuilding it from the
deck upward
Mayor Nee asked Dean Johnson and Mr. Stern whether they had any questions of the
witnesses ➢ean Sohnson said that he would like to question Mr Geisen,
Dean Johnson asked Mr Gelsen what demolition procedures he would recommend for
247
the plumbing fixtures and the plumbing above the deck Mr Geisen stated that
he believed the plumbing fixtures above the deck could be preser�ed especially
in the bath room area He stated that it might be possible to reuse all of
the plumbing fixtures in the bath room area that the wa11s where the plumbing
connections to these fixtures are located might be stripped to ascertain the
damage to the walls and there might be a possibility that these walls as well
as the plumbing in the wa11s could be reused Mr Johnson 25ked Mr Geisen if
it p�uld be possible to save any of the other plumbing fixtures in the house
NIr. Geisen replied that in so f2r as he knew, although he is not � plumbsng
inspector, but from his own observation, few of the plumbing fixtures were damaged
� and if the damage to these fixtures is not sufficient to warrant their destruction
they need not be destroyed. pqr. Sohnson asked Mr Geisen what the condition is
of the plumbing fixtures in the kitchen. Mr. Geisen replied that he did noC
check the plumbing in the krtchen or in the house generally to be aUle to say
very much concerning the plumbing fixtures in the kitchen He stated th�ti$e
shifting of the house more than likely broke some of the plumbing and that L'his
plumUing would necessarilp have to be replaced. M2yor Nee stated th�t consideration
of theplumbing fixtures is not rele�ant to the discussion of the structural
strength of the house and not relevant to this discussion. He stated that it
is not necessary for the structural inspectors and the structural engineer to
examine the plumbing fixtures in the house. Mr. Johnson asked Mr Geisen whether
he examined a11 the plumbing fixtures and the electrical appliances which were
built into the house, Mr. Geisen answered "No."
Mr Johttson Informed the Council th2t he had an estimate from a contrzctor which
he would like to present to the Council. He stated that this estimate was
received from the Giertsen Construction Company He stated the Giertsen
Construction Company made this estimate in the belief that the walls could be
reused and the plumbing and electrical fixtures need not be demolished or �ny
extensive repair made to the plumbing and electrical work in the house He
stated that the contractor did not contemplate removal of the walls as was found
to be necessary by the City Building Inspectors and the structural engineer,
Mr Stern, attorney for the home owner, stated thaL- he recei�ed an estimate
from a contractor, one A1vin L. ➢erksen of ➢erkson Builders Inc. He caould like
' Co present the estimate made by Mr. Derksen to the Council. Mr. Stern �sked
Mr. Derksen what is required in the way of repairs to pl�ce this home in the
same condition Chat it was before the tornado, Mr Derksen answered thaL- the
building must be stripped to adhere to the code, that it might Ue possible to sa�e
some of the plumbing fixtures a6ove the deck but the building otherwise must be
sttipped to the deck. He stated that without stripping the walls examining
Chem carefully and conducting a careful examination of the structural members of
tYie house, in future years possibly toro years structural fazlure could take
place in the house. He stated that floors could sag and walls could Uow, popping
tile off the walls, 2nd perhaps causing Zn�ury Lo the occupants of the house.
He stated that cabinets inside the home had heen racked and that the fixtures
are in need of rebuilding. He stated that shifting damaged some oP the cabinet
work inside the house and that removing plumbing fixtures from the wa11s in the
house would result in some damage to the plumbing fixtures�and��s e rerult Fhe
r3umbing faxtures would need to be replaced. He stated that he did not care
to guarantee that the plumbing fixtures did not need to be replaced, since they
could easily be damaged in the process of demolishing and rebuilding the structure
Mayor Nee stated that a discussion of the plumbing fixtures is not relevant to
the demolition of the home. Mr Stern asked Mr. Derksen what it would cost Lo
restore the home to comply with the City Godes Mr Derksen replied that il-
would cost approximately $15,400;00 Mr, Slern asked what was included in this
$15,400 00 �o far as plumbing and electrical work was concerned Mr Derksen
answered that t.his estimate included full repl�cement of plumbing and electrical
fixtures on the premise that possible damage would Ue caused to the plumUing and
' electrical fixtures when the structure is demolished and rebuilt Mayor Nee
again infonned Mr Stern that questi�ns concerning plumbing fixtures and
electrical appliances ere not pertinent to this discussion. Mr Derksen stated
that the insurance companies guaranteeing his construction work would not
provide backing to contractors if they were to attempL- to replace plumUing
' flxtures without proper examination and care of these fixtures to insure that
they could be replace without damage, He stated that if he were to replace the
existing plumbing fixtures in the rebuilt home where they might be damaged during
constructZOn and the owner were to press charges against him for installing
damaged fixCUres the insurance company would not Uack him against these ch�rges
Mayor Nee asked Mr Stern why he continued to discuss the plumbing fixtures when
this is not relevant Co the discussion, and Mr Stern answered that he was
discussing Che plumbing fixtures on behalf of Che home owner Mr Biedron He
stated further that he would not be bound Uy any o£ the records made at the
Council meeCing except for the taped recording
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Mr Johnson stated that the insurance company had an option in their insurance
policy to rebuild the property and repair it with like and similar pzoperty and
similar furnishings to the condition in which it was before the damage. He
stated that the insurance company did not waive that option to repair the
property to its former condition, the requirements af the building code not-
withstanding He stated that the insurance company would in no case concede
i�s rights to repair the stzucture, He stated the insurance company would ha�e
no ob�ection to restoring the house to comply with the code providing such
construction could be fully covered by the claim of damages.
Nlayor Nee asked Mr. Johnson if he had any questionsof Mr. Derksen Mr. Johnson �
replied that he did. He asked Mr, Deiksen what he proposed to do to the
property. Mr. Derksen stated that he proposed to demolish the property in
compliance with the report of the Building Inspector and rebuild the property,
according to code, from the cap upwards. Mr. Johnson asked Mr. Derksen
whether or not he had heard the report of Mr. Geisen, the structural engineer.
Mr. Derksen answered, "Yes." Mr. Johnson asked Mr. Derksen what he would
replace and what he would build belnw the cap of the house, Mx. Derksen answered
that he woL�ld a€id a double �oist to the structure in the basement where the �oist
is fractured and make other necessary repairs. Mr. Johnson asked Mr Derksen
whether or not the cap on the house was moved and whether it would have to be
moved back. Mr. Derksen answered that it was moved and could be moved back
into place. Mr. Johnson asked Mr. Derksen whether he would ask the City for a
$uilding Permit to do Chis work. Mr. Derksen answered, "Yes."
Mayor Nee stated that he would like to address the attorneys concerned with
this case. Mayor Nee said that the City wants to remove dangexous structures
from the City for the health and safety of the inhabitants of the City. He
stated that it xs not the intention of the City to encumber or bother the
negotiations 6etween the insurance company and the home owner in any way. He
stated that the City wants to receive the permission of the insurance company
and of the home owner to demolish the structure or to guarantee that the
structure will 6e demolished shortly to remove the hazards of the structure
and the ttuisance which the structure entails, from the City. Mayor Nee asked
Mr. Johnson whether he would guarantee that the structure would be removed
shortly. Mr. Johnson answered that he would refer the Mayor to the statutory �
provisions of the State oF Minnesota, to the Constitution of the United State9
of America, to the provisions of the insurance policy and the City to the laws
of Minnesota. He stated that the insurance company wrote policies to provide
indemnification for a loss, the insurance company zeserved the right to take
ovez the property and rebuild it at its own option. He stated that his purpose
is to see the full extent of the evidence upon which the Council bases its
decision to demolish this home. Mayor Nee asked Mr. Sohnson whether he had
authority to grant the City permission to demolish the structure. Mr. Johnson
answered that he did not have the authority to do so. Mayor Nee asked
Mr. Sohns�a whether he could acknowledge that the City had the power to do so
Mr. Johnson replied that if the action is 1ega1 it can be done, He stated that
he had come to the Council meeting in order to obtain evidence of the procedures
which were being conducted before the Council and that he would report this
evidence to the insurance company. He stated that the insurance polzcy provides that
when the police powers of the goveinment are invoked in xegard to a propexty the
insurance company can void the policy He stated that should the home be
demolished by the insurance company (SEE CORRECTIDN JI7NE 2, MINUTES) the insurance
company might well void the policy. Mayor Nee asked Mr. Johnson whether he would
be willing to sign a release for the City to demolish the home. Mr. Johnson
answered that he cannot authorize the City to take any action with regard to the
structure. Mr Sohnson stated further that the insurance company would not and
does not £ollow the practice of authorizing outside parties to take any action
in regard to the propertyof the insured Mayor Nee informed Mr. Johnson that
the City would like to have the agreement of the insurance company to remove this ,
hazard from the City of Fridley. Mr. 3ohnson repl�ed that an owner of premises
which is not encumbered with mortgages, taxes, lien s or ather encumbrances
would Ue fxee to comply with the wishes of the Mayor. He stated that if an
owner who has encumbrances upon his property does so, he risks the full
liability for his actions He stated that the insurance company would not inform
anyone or make any decision as to what the company would do i£ the City were to
demolish the home or if the owner were to take any action to make any changes in
the structure until and unless these changes are made or rintil the home itself
is demolished.
Mayor Nee asked the homeowner and his attorney whether the homeou�ner would
authorize the City to demolish the structure. Mr. Stern replzed that the
homeowner would not sign any permit for the City to demolish the structure until
���
the insuxance company agrees to have the home demolished and stated he wished
to make it clear that as far as the owner could do so he wished to cooperate
with the City, but it is necessary for the owner to cooperate with the insurance
company in order not to lose the insuxance on his propexty. He stated that the
homeowner did not wish to �eopardize his rights to recover from the insurance
company and would not sign any consent Co demolish the home until the insurance
company gives him permission to do so or settles the claim
Mayor Nee addressed the Council saying thar the Council had received the
xecommendation of Che Building Inspectox, of the structural engineer, and of
, Mr. Flynn, Building Inspector from Coon Rapids. He stated that the Council could
act upon the recommendatzon of the Building Inspectors and of the structural
engineer, and if they chose to do so they chose to do so theq would only need to
concur with the recommendations of the report of the Building Inspectors and
the strucCUral engineer.
Motion by Kirkham to concur wiCh the findings of the Inspection Department
concerning the home locaYed at 584 Rice Creek Terrace, Seconded by Thompson
Upon a voice vote, there being no nays, the motion carried unanimously.
Mayor Nee informed the homeowner, and the attorneys, that the City does not
intend to be hasty about demolishing this structure, that there might be a
period of 2 or 3 weeks before the City would actually demolish this particular
structure while it is in the meantime demolishing othec structures and removing
other hazards from the City of Fridley.
CONTINUED HEARING ON DEMOLITION - 405 - 57TH PLACE NORTHEAST (TABLED 6/4/65):
Mayor Nee inquired who is present at the Council meeting concerning the hearing
for demolition of the home at 405 - 57th Place Northeast, Dean Johnson a�swered
that he is presently representing the insurance company, that a Mr. Amborn
apparently owns the structure at present, although the fee owner is a Mr Mistelski
Mayor Nee inquired of Mr, Johnson whether he had requested the delay oi demolition
bIr. Johnson answered, "Yes". He stated that there was a question whether the
structure conformed to the code before the tornado had damaged the structure
� Mayoz Nee asked Mr, Johnson wheCher there is any reason to believe the previous
status of the home isielevant to the discussion. Mr. Johnson stated that he is
not sure whether the �C�vious status of the home is relevant ot the discussion
or not.
Mayor Nee asked the Building Inspector to report to the Council concerning the
condition of the structure. A11en Jensen sL'ated that when he had made the first
inspection of the structure, he recommended total demolition of the structure
and that he had made a second inspection of the structure with Mr. F1ynn, the
Building Inspector from Coon Rapids, and Mr. Geisen, the structural engineer
He stated thaC they had had difficulty obtaining entry to the home andhad not
been ahle to obtain entry at first but had finally taken off the boards from Lhe
wLndows and entered the structure in this mannei Ae stated that three inspections
had been made of the structure in addition to the first one whlch he had made.
These inspections were made on May 27, 1965, June 4, 1965 and Sune 9, 1965.
Mayor Nee asked Mr Jensen whether the structure is unsafe for habitation
Mr. Jensen answered, that it �s unsafe. Mayor Nee asked Mr. lensen whether the
structure conld be repaired or restored without demolish�ng it Mr Jensen
answered, "IVo."
Mayor Nee asked the strnctural engineer, Mr. A. W. Geisen „ to give hr..^, inspection
report of the structure. Mr. Geisen stated thae he is a licensed struceural
engineer and has had considerable experience designing residenees and structures
He stated that in addition to the items listed in ehe report by Mr Sensen, there
, was racking of ttte south wall and there is a pressure crack showing in a Uulge
under a window, which indicates extensive structural damage to the structure He
stated that the east wall is cracked and that the center posts of the structure have
been r acked and pushed out to the north. Mayor Nee stated that he realized where
the code violation exists in Che damages to the structure He asked Mr. Geisen
whether it would be possible to repair the structure in compliance with the City
codes without demolishing Yhe structure. Mr. Geisen answered that it could not
be done without demolishing the structure.
Mayor Nee asked Mr. Johnson whether he had any questions for the Building Inspector
or the structural engineer. Mr Sohnson stated that he wanted to question Mr.Geisen
He stated that he is asking these questions on behalf of Farmers Hvme Mutual
Insutance Company, Mr. Johnson asked Mr. Geisen whether he had seen the building
before the tornado damaged the building. Mr. Geisen answered, "No.° Mr. Johnson
asked Mr. Geisen whether his notes showed the dimensions of the building.
;��0
Mr, Geisen said, "Yes," that the dimensions of the building are 30 feet 6
inches by 16 feet 6 Lnches. Mr. Johnson asked Mr. Geisen whether the size
of the building complies with the stipulations in the Code concerning the
size of residential structures. Mr, Geisen said, "No,." Mr. Johnson asked
Mr, Geisen whether the home is damaged, in his opinion, over more than 50%
of the structure, Mr, Geisen answered, "Yes." Mr. ,Tohnson asked whether
tF,is SD% damage to the structure was estimated on an area basis or on a
volume basis, Mr. Geisen answered that he believes the house has suffered
more than 50% damage on both bases. Mr. Johnson asked Mr. Geisen in what
way the construction of the house violates �ther provisions of the Code.
Mr. Geisen answered that the floor and the roof are not in compliance w�th
the Code, Mr. Sohnson asked in what way the floor and roof constructions '
are not in compliance with the Code. Mr. Geisen answered that the �oists
have been spaced 24 inches on csxtter and the rafters are also 24 inches
on center, Mr, Johnson asked_Mr. Geisen what �oist and rafters construction
is required by the Code. Mr. Geisen answered that �oists and rafters should
be placed 16 xnches on center. Mr. Johnson asked Mr. Geisen what is required
according to his interpretation of the Code. Mr. Geisen answered that the
Code forbids reconstruction of the home. Mayor Nee asked Mr. Geisen whether
his �udgement is based on the size of the home or the damage to the home. Mr.
Geisen replied that theknme is not structurally sound. Mr. 7ohnson asked
Mr, Geisen whether the code specifically requires spacing �oists 16 inches on
center. Mr. Geisen answered, "Yes." Mr, Sahnson asked whether this is a
requirement for saEety, and Mr, Geisen answered, "Yes." Mr. Sohnson asked
whether the building construction with joists and rafters spaced 24 inches
on center becomes unsafe with the passage of time. Mr. Geisen answered that
damage has made this structure unsafe.
Councilman Kirkham asked Mr. Johnson when the insurance policy concerning this
home was sold, Mr. ,Tohnson stated that he didn't know but it possible could
have been as little as 2 and as much as 5 years previously. Mayor Nee stated
that a discussion of the insurance policy is not relevant to this matter. The
Mayor asked Mr. Sohnson whether he had some reason for opposing the demolition
of the home. Mr. .Tohnson stated this would depend upon the benefits accruing
to the policy holder considering the substandard construction of the home.
Mr. Johnson stated that he has some questions he wxshed to ask the City �
Building Inspector. He then asked Mr. Sensen whether he talked to the
contractor tfiis day concerning the premises. Mr. Jensen answered that he did
not know. Mr. ,Tohnson stated that he had hear-say concerning a bid to
reconstruct the building by a Mr. Tonaarsen for the amount of $5,100.00. He
stated that he did not know what part of the structure the contractor
contemplated re-using to re-build the building. The building, however, is
substandard and not in compliance with the code. He stated that the insurance
company wished to keep the option to rehabilitate the structure if it saw fit
to do so. He said that if the insurance company were deprived of its option
to rehabilitate the structure the policy holder might well Iose the benefLts of
the policy. Mr. Johnson stated that the amount of the present insurance on the
structure is $8,000.00.
Mayor Nee asked Mr. Geisen whether it is his recommendation that the home be
demolished. Mr. Geisen answered, "Yes."
Motion by Kirkham to concur with the recommendations of the Building Inspector
and of the structural engineer concerning the structure at 405 - 57th £lace
Northeast. Seconded by Thompson. Upon a voice vote, there being no nays,
the motion carried unanimously.
CONTINUED HEARING ON DEMOLITION - 6521 CLOVER PLACE (TABLED 6/4/65):
Mayor Nee announced that the question of demolition st 6521 Clover Place �
had finally heen settled.
CONTINUED HGARING ON DEMOLITION - 6750 OVERTON DRIVE (TABLED 6/4/65�_
Mayor Nee inquired who was present concerning the hearing on demolition of the
home at 6750 Overton Drive. No one answered. The City Attorney stated that the
only actxon remaining to be taken was the view of the Council and the question
of the findings at 6750 Overton Drive. Councilman Kirkham stated that he had
taken a look at the property from the outside and from his view of the property
outside the premises he is inclined to agree with fhe report of the Building
Inspector.
(MINUTES CONTINUE➢ IN NEXT �OOK)
�
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CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS MINUTE BOOK -
THE MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING OI' SUNE 9, 1965
Mayor Nee asked the Building Inspector whether he believed this structure could
be 7:epaired. The Building Inspector stated that he is inclined to believe the
building might be repaired without demolishing it. Mayor Nee stated that the
� owners are not satisfied with the offers to repair the building and requested
the City to demolish the structure He stated that there is a question whether
the City ought to demolish the structure. He stated that the owners believe the
Building Inspector and the structural engineer d�d not examine the building with
sufficient care. Mayor Nee stated that he is not convinced himself that he is
not sufficiently familiar with the structure to judge. He stated that he believes
that Mr. F1ynn, the buLlding inspector from Coon Rapids, the City BuLldzng
Inspector and the structural engineer ate more qualified to �udge whether the
building can be repaired without demolition.
Motion by Thompson to concur with the recommendations of Che Building Inspector
that the structure can be repaired without demolition and remove the notice of
demolition from the structure at 6750 Overton Drive. Seconded by Kirkham, Upon
a voice vote, thexe being no nays, the motion carried unanimously,
HEARING ON REQUEST EOR A DELAY OF DEMOLITION - 513 &ENNET'L DRIVE:
Mayor Nee inquired whether anyone is present at Che Council meeting who wished
to be heard �.n regard to the request for a delay of demolition at 513 Bennett
Drive, Roman Chock the owner of the structure wss present at the Council meeting.
Mayoi Nee inquired whether anyone else was present, No one answered.
Mayox Nee asked the Building Inspector Co state his findings of the structure
at 513 Bennett Drive. Mr. 7ensen stated that the inspection team inspected the
building twice. They found that the building has been moved north, thae duct
, work and piping are twisted, that there has been racking of the structure, that
the foundation is cracked, and that there has been a considerable amount of
water damage. He recommended total demolition of the building to the deck with
repair of the foundation before rebuilding, He stated that a demolition notice
had been posted upon the building on June 1, 1965 and reposted on June 9, 1965
The Mayor asked the Building InspecCor whether the Health Tnspector made a
repoxt concerning the condition o£ the structure. The Building Inspector
answered that he did not know.
Mayor Nee asked theowner, Mr. Chock, why he is requesting delay of the demolition
of the structure. Mr. Chock answ�red that his insurance company advised him
not to sign any agreement for the demolition of the building until proof oC loss
of the building has been established. He stated that an insurance adjuster would
look at Che building the following day. Mayor Nee asked Mr. Chock whether he would
sign the demolition notice after settling with the insurance company. Mr. Chock
answered that he would. Mayor Nee stated that in that case there would be no
further problem. Councilman Thompson stated that he believed that when Mr. Chock
settled with his insuxance company he would move expeditiously and the structuxe
could shortly be removed from the City. Mayor Nee suggested that consideration
of the request for delay of demolition might be tabled for two weeks. P4r. Chock
stated that he expected to have a contractor work on the structures shortly
No further action was taken on the matter,
' HEARING ON REQUEST FOR A DELAY OF DEMOLITION - 5609 - STH SIREET NORThEAST:
MayoY Nee inquired if anyone present at Che hearing wished to be heard concerning
the request to delay demolition of the sYructure at 5609 - Sth Street Northeast.
Gary Cheney the owner of the structure was present at the Counc�l meeting wiCh
his attorney, Gerald Hanratty. Mr. Aoy Hagen, attorney for the AusCin-St. Pau1
Mutual Insurance Company was also present at the Council meeting He stated that
he had brought with him a contractor representing the Frank Rico Construction
Company. Mr. Hagen stated that the interest of the insurance company is to
pxevent demolition. He stated that the insurance company Uelieves ehe building
is repairable and can be replaced in its original condition. He state d thathe
had a contractor with him who would present evLdence to this effect,
L
Mayor Nee asked the Suilding Inspector to report to the Council concerning
the condition of the structure at 5609 - Sth Street Northeast. The Building
Inspector reported that he had placed a condemnation notice on the structure
3 or 4 days, previously. He stated that the building has been mw ed to the
north with half of it split from the rest of it.- He stated that the east and
west walls are bowed out and the floor covering has been d�,stroyed. The
bixilding is a total loss to the deck and repairs of the foundation are required.
He stated that upon reinspection he found no changes in the stru�ture that
would warrant changing his report. Mayor Nee asked the Building Inspector if
other buil�ing inspectors had inspected the structure. Tne Building Inspector
answered that Mr. A1 Flynn, the 6uilding inspector from Coon Rapids and '
Mr. Geisen had inspected the structure.
Mayor Nee asked Mr, Geisen to report to the Council the condition of the
structure at 5609 - Sth Street Northeast. Mr.�Geisen replied that he inspected
the structure on May 28, 7.965 and ,Tune 9, 1965. He stated that he is a registered
stxuctural engineer and that he is in agreement with the report �ust read by
the Building Inspector. Mayor Nee asked the structural engineer whether
he considered the structure unsafe for habitation. The structural engineer
answered,"Yes," and said that the building is split. Mayor Nee asked '
Mr. Geisen whether the building could be restored to comply with-the Cx�y
Code. Mr. Geisen answered, "No."
Mayor Nee asked the attorney for the owner, Mr. Hanratty, if he had any
questions for the Building Inspector. Mr. Hanratty answered, "No."
Mayor Nee asked Mr. Hagen whether he had any questions for the Building
Inspector and the structural engineer. He stated that the report shows
Mr, Flynn concurs that the premises are unsafe and cannot be restored to
its previous condition. Mr. Hagen replied that the insurance company has
repaired buildings that were in worse condition than this structure. He
stated that as far as the insurance company is concerned the building is
repairaUle. He stated that he would like to question the contractor for
the benefit of the Council to demonstrate his point, He presented Mr. Rekucki,
of the Rico Construction Company, to the Council.
Mayor Nee asked Mr. Rekucki where he lived. Mr. Rekuckx replzed that his
address is 2650 - 15th Street Northwest in New Br�,ghton and that the offices
of his firm are located in Minre apolis. Mayor Nee asked Mr. Rekucki whether
he is licensed to do construction work in Frictley. Mr. Rekucki then stated
that he was called in to repair the structure. He stated that he has 18years
experience in the construction business and has done much estimating work
for this insurance company. He stated that in his opinion, the building
should have been condemned before the tornado damaged it, He stated the
fact that the building had been maved off its foundation did not make it
impossible to put the building Uack on the foundation. He believed he
could repair the roof, the wall sheathing, and the ceiling of the building
to comply with the Code but that the building itself is too small to comply
with the Code. He stated that he believes it is possible to replace damaged
materials in the structure and repair it to its original condition without
demolishing it. Mayor Nee asked Mr. Aekucki whether he had taken some of the
wa11s aparY and examined the cond�tion of the walls in order to determine
whether or not the structural members are in fact sound, Mr. Rekucki
answered, "No." Mr. Rekucki stated that the building is as sound now as it
was before the tornado, even though it dld not comply with the Code before the
tornado damaged thehouse. He stated that the amount of movement of the
structure as a result of the tornado could be repaired by merely moving
the house and the wa11s back into place. He stated that the size of the
joists and rafters made the building substandard. Mayor Nee asked Mr. Rekucki
what the extent of his inspection was, whether or not he had inspected the
structural members inside the walls. Mr. Rekuc[ci answered that the house is
in bad shape and that the ceilings and the roof must be replaced.,
Mayor Nee asked Mr, Rekucki what is his economic interest in this matter. He
stated that he did not brl.ieve the Building Inspectors had an economic interest
in the matter. Mr. Rekucki replied that he is paid by the insurance company
to make estimates of costs of repairs to damaged structures. He stated that
if no other contractor is willing to repair the structure for the amount of
the estimate it is his �ob to repair rt for the amount of the estimate he
presents. He stated that he believes it is possible to repair this house
for the amountof the estimate which he made upon the structure.
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Mayor Nee asked Mr. Hanratty, the attorney for the property owner, whether he
had any questions. Mr. Hanratty, answered, "No,"
Mr. Rekucki stated that he could offer more evidence to induce the Council not
to tear down the structure. He stated that he believes the Building Inspector
merely wants to demolish this structure beca:�se it is an old building in a
new neighborhood. Mr, Rekcuki stated that he believed the Building Inspector
was advocating demolition of the buildang solely because the area of the
buidling was 576 square feet.
� Mayor Nee addressed Mr. Cheney and told him that the Council is inclined to
support the findings of the Suilding Inspector. Mr. Hanratty informed the
Council that Mr. Cheney does not wish to delay demolition of the structure
Mayor Nee asked Mr. Cheney whether he would sign a release authorizing the City
to demolish the structure. Mayox Nee lnformed Mr, Cheney that the City wi11
demolish the bu2lding whenever Mr. Cheney signs a release authorizing the
City to do so.
CONTINUED HEARING ON AEMOLITION - 129 HORIZON CIRCLE (TABZED 6/4/65)`
Mayor Nee inquired whether anyone present wished to be heard concerning
demolition of the structure at 129 Horizon Circle. Mr. Johnson asked Mayor
Nee whether he and the attorney for the homeowner could be allowed to approach
the Council for a discussion off the record. Mayor Nee stated that this will
be allright. He stated further that the question before the Council is
whether demolition of the structure should be delayed. Virgil Herrick was
present at the Council meeting, representing propexty owner, Don Larson. ,
Mr. 7ohnson stated that he is representing Shelby Mutual Insurance Company
Following a discussion at the Council table khe Mayor asked the Building
Inspector to give his report concerning the structure at 129 Horizon Circle
The Building Inspector stated that he posted his own sign for condemnation
upon the structure on May 17, 1965. He reported that three more inspections
have been made since May 17, 1965 and that on May 27, 1965 he posted a demolition
notice upon the structure. He stated Chat it is probably necessary to demolish
' the structure to the deck to replace block in the foundation, to strip the walls
and the root deck to determine whether structural members in the framing of the
house can be saved or not,
Mayor Nee asked Mr. Herrick if he had any questions for the Bt�ilding Inspector.
Mr. Herrick asked the Building Inspector whether he discussed the repair of
the building with Leottard Samuelson, a contractor interested in repa�ring this
structure. The Building Tnspector answered ehat he had and that he informed
the contractos that it will be necessary to rebuild this structure. Mr. Herrick
asked the Building Inspector whether he would recommend a Building Permit or
a repair permit on the structure. The Building Inspector answered that he would
provided the building contractor rebuilds the structure to comply with the Code
Nlayor Nee asked the Building Inspector whether the structure is presently unsafe
for habitation, The Building Inspector a�wered, "Yes," Mayor Nee asked the
Building Inspector whether it would be possible to repair or restore the structure
The Building Inspector answered that this is questionable. Mayor Nee said to the
Building Inspector that he assumed then that he is correct in thinking that this
is a borderline question whether the building can be repaired without demolitiou.
The Building Inspector ststed that that is essentially correct, He said that
whether demolition should take place in this structure is largely a question
of the economics of making repairs upon the structure.
Mayo7- Nee asked Mr. Johnson whether he had any questions for the Building
� Inspector. Mr. Sohnson ansWered, "No,"
Mayor Nee asked the structural engineer, Mr. Geisen, to report on the structure.
Mr. Geisen stated that he examined the structure on May 2Z, 1965, on June �+,1965
and on Sune 9, 1965. He stated that in addition to the report of the Building
Inspector he had gathered some additional data on June 9, 1965. According to
his opinion, the building is a total loss and it ought to be demolished and
replaced. '
Mr. ,Tohnson stated_that he wished to obtain a copy of the bid of Leonard
Samuelson and have the structure repaLxed according to the recommendations of
the Building Inspector.
Mayox Nee asked Mr. Hexxick whether, if an agxeement were made between the
insurance company and theproperty owner concerning whether the demoliton should
�
be carried out, it would be possible to begin work on this structure
immediately. NIr. Herrick asked whether it would meet the requirements of
the City to strip the walls ofthe structure and examine the frame as a substitute
for demolishing the structure. The Mayor informed Mr. Hexrick that if the
structure is found to ba sound and in accordance with the Code �hat it will
not be necessary to demolish the structure.
Motion by Kzrkhaia to table consideration of the demolition of the struc'ture
at 129 Horizon Circle to the Council meeting of June 14, 1965. Seconded by
Thompson, IIpon a voice vote, there being no nays, the motion carried �
unanimously. �
BUILDING INSPECTORS REPORT OF STRUCTURES REQUIRING DEMOLITTON•
Mayor Nee informed the Council that they had before them a list of structures
which the inspection team has found necessary to be demolished and the hazards
thereof to be removed for the benefit of the health and safetypf the residents
of the City of Fridley. Mr. 7ohnson inquired whether the structure at
5840 University Avenue is on the list. He was given a copy of the list.
Mr. Johnson stated that he had not been informed by his client whether a
delay should be requested of demo7ition of the structure at 5840 University
Avenue. The City Manager informed Mr. Johnson that he has until .7une14, 1965
to request a delay oP the demolition of this structure.
Mayor Nee asked the Building Inspector if he has a record of a11 the demolition
notices which are contested. The Building Inspector answered that to the best
of his knowledge the records are complete, The City Manager stated t'rat the
Buildi,ng Inspector has a list that will be given to the men in charge of the
demoli.tion teams of buildings that wi11 Ue demolished without the consent of
the owners and that this list is complete. He stated that the list uf structures
waswrxtten by the inspection team made up of the Building Inspector, Mr. Jensen,
the building Inspector from Coon Rapids, Mr. Flynn, and the structural Engineer,
Mr. Geisen. Mayor Nee stated that action by the Council to receive the report
listing the structures which are required to be demolished would be appropriate.
Motion by Kirkham to receive the list of structures requiring demolition from ,
the Building Inspector. Seconded by Thompson. Upon a voice vote, there being
no nays, the motion carried unanimously.
COMMiTNICATIONS •
REQUEST FOR REMOVAL OF EASEMENT RIGHTS - EAST RIVER LANDS COURT:
The City Manager explained that a communication had been recieved Prom property
owners at East River Laxids Court requesting the City to vaca�e certain utility
easements. The City Attorney informed the Council that the vacation must be
done by ordinance, the ordinance must be passed, adopted and published. He
stated that this has been done. He stated, however, that an error was made in
the original ordinance and that it would be sufficient for the Council to instruct
the City Manager to correct the error in the ordinance and to verify the
corrected ordinance. He stated that he believed no one had checked the ordinance
at the time it was written for this particular error and that there would be no
purpose to holding the ordinance with the error in it. He stated that he believed
it is possible for the City to correct errors.
Mayor Nee asked the City Attorney whether an amendment to the ordinance would
be required. The City Attorney stated that this would depend upon what the
attorneys of the parties wished to have. He stated that whatever would satisfy
the attorneys of the parties involved would be satisfactory. The City Manger
inquired whether it would be necessary to publish this corrected ordinance. The '
City Attorney replied that this would depend upon what had been done to the
property in the past. He stated that if the property had been torrenced, the
owner would have been required to furnish the notice publishing the original
ordinance as an affidavit of vacation of the easement. He stated that if this
is the case it wi1Z be necessary to pnbZish the corrected or amended ordinance
so that the matter can be corrected in court.
Motion by Kirkham to instruct the City Manager to write an amendment for the
ordinance correcting it to provide for the vacation of certain easements in
East Riverlands Court. Seconded by Thompson. Upon a voice vote, there being
no nays, the motion carried unanimously.
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REQUEST OE THE ANOKA COUNTY AUDITOR FOR ACTiON ON TAX rORF�IT LANDS:
The City Manager explained to the Council that a map has been completed showing
the location of tax forfeit lands. He stated that one piece might 7�e c�f
interest to the City of Fridley, The Mayor stated that the City wi11 not be
buying the property. 'I`he City Manager read the letter from the Anoka County
Auditor. He stated that a date wi11 be set L-or sale of the tax forfeit lands
and that the Anoka County Auditor wished to have the City set aside any
properties before the date of the sale which the City might be interested in
purychasing.
� Motion '6y Thompson to approve the sale of tax forfeited lands as submitted by
the Anoka County Auditor with the exclusions noted by the City Manager. Seconded
by Kirkham. Upon a volce vote, there being no nays, the motion carried unanimously.
SANITARY SEWER BACK UP - 615T AVENUE NORTHEAST:
A visitor to the Council meeting Ernest Powell of 6241 Sunrise Drive stated
that he again wished to aquaint the Council with the continuing problem of
sanitary sewer backup into the homes along 61st Avenue in Fridley. He stated
that the condLtion is a most ofiensive one and is a continuing groblem. Phe
homeownexs do not see any solution of this problem. He stated that homes on
the corner of University Avenue and Sunrise Arive are having a great deai of
trouble with sanitary sewer flooding. He stated that it is necessary for
himself and his neighbors to keep the basement facilities permanently plugged and
as such they are unable to use their basement facilities.
Mr. Powe11 stated that last week one home owner Mrs. Burns had continuous
trouble with sanitary sewer backup into her basement. He stated that it is
not safe for himself to leave home since the saniYary sewage is seeping
around the drain plugs which he installed in the plumbing fixtures in his
basement. Mr. Powell stated further that he wished to have the City run the pump
at 61st Avenue and University Avenue continually in order to alleviate the back-
flooding of the sewer main. He inquired of the Council what would be done to
relieve the back-flooding of the main when T.H. ��47 is built. He stated that
' in his own home there is a continous bad odor and that he believes there is
danger of �hphoid to the occupants of his home and to those of the neighboring
homes due to the continuous backup of sanitary seWage into their homes He
stated that once the Highway is constructed it will be impossLble for the Gity
to pump the sanitary sewage outof the main and that the homeowners then wi11
have no protection against sanitary sewer backup,
Another property owner, Ervin Schulte, was also present at the Council meeting
He stated that he had found it necessary to plug the basement fixures in his
home, and that he used a ba11 to plug the floor drain in his basement He
stated that the pressure against the ba11 is so great that it is necessary for
him to ram a two by four against the ball and support it up against a �oist in
the first floor. He stated, however, that eventually the sewage had seeped
around the ball and the ball had deteriorated making it necessary to replace
theball. When he removed the two by foux and took the ball out of the floor the
water �quirted into the air to a height of three feet and he very shortly had
a pail full of water on the floor before he could replace the ba11 with a new o�
Mayor hTee stated that the City Council is aware that this is a periodic problem
in the area. Mr. Schulte stated that he disagrees that it is not a peraodic
p�oblem but that it has been a continual problem since March 1, 1965 He stated
that the pressure in the sanitary sewer main has been sufficient to push the
plugs out of the wash tubs. He stated further, that, �e believed the construction
of apaYtment houses, of the car wash, of future apartment houses or car washes
� in the City wi11 be causing more trouble and delivering more water into the
sanitary sewage 1ine, and with the construction of more homes in the City the
problem will become worse as time goes on, Mayor Nee stated that he believes
thexe is a great deal of ground water seeping into the sanLtary sewer line and
this is causing flooding in the main.
Consulting Engineer, Mr. Comstock, was present at the Council Meeta�ng, He
stated that when the last complainC was received by the Council concerning Uack
flooding of the sanitary sewer, he had been directed by the Council to make an
investigation of the problem. He stated that he had his report almost complete
when the tornado damaged his property and destroyed the report which he prepared.
He stated that his fixm had begun a new report which is almost complete The
substance of this report is that the City should connect the portion of the
sanitary sewer system north of Rice Creek with the sanitary sewer mains of the
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North Suburban Sanitary Sewer District at some time in the near future in order
to relieve sanitary sewer flooding in the rest of the City. He stated that an
interceptor broke at Rice Creek during the past rain 3prm and when this happened
the sewage line south of Rxce Creek Terrace was iimnediately relieved of its
load of sewage. He stated that when this sewage line had been repaired the
sewage main south of Rice Creek immediately became flooded again. Mayor Nee
asked the property owners whether they had noticed at this time that the hack
flooding had been reduced, They stated that they had not seen any evidence
of this. Mr. Schulte asked how big is the sanitary sewer ma3.n. The City
Eng�.neer answered that the sanitary sewer main is an 18 inch- line.
Mayor Ne� stated that at some time in the future the City planned to connect �
to the mains of the North Suburban Sanitary Sewer Dristrict, but that these
mains are not complete and will nnt be completed before October. He stated
that the Consulting Engineer is making a study to determine whether the
problem of back flooding in these mains is only a temporary problem and if it
is only a temporary problem, the City will not connect to the North Suburban
Sanitary Seraer District mains as soon as possible, He stated that connection
oE the sewage mains to those of the North Suburban Sanitary Sewer District
would increase the cost of disposing of sewage to the City of Fridley, �
The Mayor stated further that there are illega2ly connected samp pumps pumping
water from footing tile and other drainage systems into the sanitary sewez.
He stated that it is not possible for the City to inspect all the homes to
determine Lhe number of illegally connected-sump pumps. The Mayor said that
the City is studying some means of aleviating the problem at the present time
and reducing the amount of water running into the sanitary sewer main.
The City Manager stated the current flooding problem is the worst in the
Cityrs history. He stated that the amount of rain fall and precipitaPion
in the City is between 10 and 12 inches above normal for the year to date.
The Mayor stated that the large amount of precipitation which the City has
received this past year has been a real problem but that the City is aware
that some solutionof this problem must be found.
Another proper�y owner stated that he had been with the City crew when they '
were examining sewage mains at various man holes around the City. He
stated that at one man hole inspection showed a considerable amount of debris
in the sewer and he suspected that children were putting debris into the man
holes of the sewer. The Mayor stated that the City wished to obtain Federal Funds
to clean debris out of the sewer. The City Managex stated that the City expected
to receive Federal Disaster Funds to clean the sewer lines but that the
application for funds to clean these sewer lines had to be made very carefully
since the debris is not evident to inspectors on the surface. The City needs ade-
quate proof before it can obtain disaster funds for cleaning the debris from the
sewer system. The Mayor stated that the Council is aware that the sanitary
sewer backup is infiolerable to the property owners and that the Council will
seek to find some solution to the problem. Mr. Powell asked what the property
owners could do or cahat the City coixld do to alleviate this problem when T.A.�k47
is buzlt. The Mayor replied that the City will run a pump to relieve the
sanitary sewer main some where e1se. The City Engineer stated that Public Works
Department crews are cleaning the sewer lines and that past inspection showed
that the main on University Avenue contained Zittle debris. One property owner
asked when was the last time the Public Works Department inspected the main on
University Avenue. The City Engineer replied, "Yesterday," The property owner
replied that the debris which he had seen was found earlier in the line on
Sunrise Drive.
Mx. Thoreson, another property owner living on Star Lane, stated that he had
seen the debris in the sewer and that he believes the sewer is plugged. He '
stated that if debris in this amount is present in the sewer lateral tia t
possibly there is a great deal of more debris further down the sewer line.
He stated that as far as flooding in his basement is concerned he has plugs
in the *aash tubs and in the £loor drains in the basement and if he removes
the plugs, his basement is immediately flooded. Mayor Nee stated that the
City had some problem in several prior years with the previous City Engineer
concerning sanitarp sewer lines. The previous City Engineer relied upon
surcharging of the mains and upon his recommendations the City did not
construc[ sanitary sewers at the rate that the mains should have been constructed.
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Mr. 'Thoreson asked Mr. Comstock whether the installation of a lzfe station on
the sanitary sewer mains would make it possible to relieve back flooding.
Mr. Comstock answered that the mains in this area where constructed with a
very £lat pitch, that there are several ot them which would have to be connected
in order to make construction of the lift station economical and connecting
these several mains together would not be a very economical means of solving
the problem. He stated that it would be difficult to huild a lift station at
reasonable cost. The City Engineer stated that he examined the main at times
when the main was overfull, that the main normally should run 1/2 to 3/4's
fu11 rather than with sewage backing up into the man holes.
Another propertyowner stated that when the sewer back flooded into his home,
he received not only a little bit of sewage but also a great deal of sand and
mud in his basement, He stated that this would indicate that a greal deal of
debris is present in the sanitary sewer.
The Mayor stated that the condition of the many damaged homes in the City
allows a great deal of rain fall to run into the basement of the homes and all
the rain fa11 running into the basements drains into the sanitary sewer.
Mr. Schulte asked whether the action the City is taking to demolish these
homes could be accompanied by action to plug a11 the plumbing drains into
the sanitary sewer at the same time, The Mayor replied that the City is
working to seal a11 the drains in houses which are exposed to rain fa11 where
storm waters might be running into the sanitary sewer.
Mr. Powe11 stated that the property owners appreciate all the work the City
has done to relieve back flooding of the sewers. He stated that the property
owners are aware that the tornado made it very difficult for the City to
spend all the time working on the sanitary sejaer lines that the CiLy would
have normally spent. He stated that the property ownexs appreciated the
efforts of the City to alleviate the results of the L-ornado disaster. Nlayor
Nee replied that the Council appreciated the understanding of the property
owners.
TEMPORARY TRAILER PERMITS:
The City Manager stated that he had received applications for s1x permits for
temporary occupancy of trailer houses. He explained that he received one
additional application from Dale Hagen who bought a wrecked trailer house
and wished to make repairs upon this trailer house on his own property. Council-
man Kirkham stated that the City has ordinanaces regulating repair of wrecked
cars and boats, and allowing property owners to keep these wrecked vehicles on
their property, temporarily, while making such repairs. The City Maaager
stated that this is a good sized trailer which Dale IIagen plans to repair
and that the City does not bother to concerxz itself with repairs made to
smaller trailers or smaller boats which property ownexs might wish to repair
upon their property. Councilman Thompson asked whether it would be possible
for the Council to permit Mr. Hagen to m�ke repairs upon this trailer on a short
term basis without charging him a fee for the permit,
Councilman Thompson moved that the City approve the permits for temporary
occupancy of trailer houses and append the list to the minutes. Seconded by
Kirkham. Upon a voice vote, there being no nays, the motion carried unanimously.
Motion by Kiikham to grant a permit to Da1e Hagen to re;�air a trailer parked
on his propezty for a period of 90 calendar days beginning Sune 9, 1965.
Seconded by Thompson. Upon a voice vote, there being no nays, the motion
carried unanimously.
RESOLUTION N0, 94-1965 - FILTNG OF AN APPLTCATION FOR IINDLRmAKING OF SURVEY
PLANS FOR DTSASTER PROJECT:
The City Attorney stated that he wished to have Che Council pass this resolution
this evening in order to expedite the work of the Urban Renewal Authority in
the southetn University Avenue area. He stated that procedure for obtaining
Eederal funds require that the City begin planning evork for the Urban Renewal
area, first, and Federal Funds would completely reimburse the City for the
costs of planning and surveying the area. IIe stated that the resolution
requires Council approval. Councilman Kirkham asked whether there is some
urgency to pass this resolution. The Mayor replied that the sooner the City
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passes this resolution the sooner the City will receive Federal Funds for this
purpose. Councilman Kirkham stated that he does not wish to vote for this
resolution at this time. The Mayor asked Councilman Kirkham to vote for the
resolution at this time and to vote for or against Urban Renewal as he wishes
at other times. The City Attoxney stated that the IIrban Renewal Authority
worked hard to get the resolution ready for Council action this evening.
Motion by Thompson to adopt Resolution No. 94-1965. Councilman Kirkham
stated that he seconds this resolution for the purpose of discussion. Upon a
voice vote, Councilman Thompson voting aye, Councilman Kirkham voting nay,
Mayor Nee voting aye, the motion carried. �
RECONSTRUCTION OF WATER MAINS ON UNTVERSITY AVENUE - EMERGENCY ORDINANCE �k304:
Mr. Comstock sCated that he prepared a report on the condition of the water
mains on University Avenue as a result of the regrading pro�ect of the
Minnosota Highway Department. He presented copies of this report to the
Council. Mayor Nee asked Mr. Comstock whether this is a preliminary report.
Mr. Comstock answered, "Yes." Mr. Comstock e�lained that his firm used a
telephone company device to locate metal below the surface of University
Avenue. He stated that this device accurately Zocates metal underground with-
in 5 inches. Iie stated that most of the water lines had been installed along
University Avenue in 1954 and 1955 before the plans of the Minnesota Highway
Department concerning tfie future construction of T.H. ,�f47 were definite,
He stated that most of the grade changes which affected the water lines were
before the current construction of the Mznnesota Highway Department and that
the City �onsequently did not have completely up to date infoxmation
concerning the location of these water lines at the time the current
cors truction p'roject was begun.
Mr. Comstock stated that he submitted the preliminary findings to four
contractors for the purpose of obtaining bids on reconstruction of these -
water mains to 7.ower the elevation of these mains sufficiently to protect
them from frost in the future, He stated that he recievcd bids from two of
the contractors based upon a deadline for bids of 5:00 P,M. on Sune 9, 1965. �
One bid, from the Barton Construction Company who are presently the
conhracturs on the Highway Project far the Minnesota Highway Department was
received in the amount of $14,913.40. Theother bid was received from
Sohnson Brothers, who are also contracting work for the Minnesota Highway'
Department, and who are under contract for construction of Pro�ect 34-n and
Pro�ect S b with the City of Fridley, The bid of the Johnson Brother Construc-
tion Company is $20,14 L 00. Mr. Comstock stated that-he believes the City
should pass an emergency ordinance to make an appropriation of $18,000.00 for
this pu�rpose. The City tiianager asked whether there is any obligation on the
part of the Stateof Minnesota for reconstruction of these water lines.
Mr. Comstock answered that he does not know. Mr. Comstock stated that most of
the contractors in the vicinity of the City are extremely busy with work at
this time of the year and possibly the City might he able to obtain a better
bid from contractors located outside the vicinity of the City, He stated,
however, that the Minnesota Highway Department wished the Citq to expedite the
work immediately and obtain a contractor who can coordinate the work af
reconstructing the water mains with the work of grading and constructing
IIniversity Avenue.
The City Engineer stated that in discussing the reconstruction woric with the •
Barton Construction Company he had stressed the advantages of coordinating the
work with the Barton Construction Company who presently have a contract for
construction of T.H. %47. He stated that he believes this is one reason why
the Barton Construction Company made a low bid on the pro�ect. Councilman
ILixkham stated that he does not believe the City will obtain a lower bid. �
Mr. Comstock stated that it is possible for Barton Construction Company to
raake a lower bid since Barton Construction Company is aware of the amount of
grading required for construction of the highway and, hence, has better
information concerning the cover over the water lines at the present time than
other contractors.
The Mayor asked the City Attorney whether it is possible for the City to adopt
an emergency ordinance with only 3 Couneilmen present at the Council meeting.
The City Attorney inforsned the Mayor that he would tell him the following week
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whether it is necessary for four Councilman to be present in order to adopt the
emergency ordinance. The City Attorney stated that he had writt�n an ordinance
which xequires the administration to negotiate Eor bids for the construction
and the amount of the bid need not be included in the ordinance. The City
Attorney read the ordinance to the Council.
Motion by Kirkham to adopt the emergency ordinance No. 304 for reconstruction
of waeex lines on University Avenue. 5econded by Thompson. Upon a voice vote,
there being no nays, the motion carried unanimously.
ESTIMATES•
The City Manager stated that he received 27 estimates far cleaning debris from
the streets from sma11 operators. These small contractors wish to receive
payment for their work at this time, Mayor Nee asked whether the cost estimate
approved by the Council earlier had been made only for the Truck Crane Company.
The City Manager answered, "Yes."
Motion by Thompson that upon receipt of the invoices and billings for debris
collection and in accord with the recommendations of the City Engineer for
payment of the same, the letter of the City Engineer detailing the amount of
the estimates be apprn�ved by the Council.
PAYMENTS TO DEBRIS CLEAN UP CONTRACTORS
INV.
N0, CONTRACTOR EQUIPMENT AMOUNT
i�20097 Carl Bolander & Sons Co.
;�27552 Quickie Transport Co,
��27553 " " "
�f27554 " " "
Tandem dump truck
wJdebris box & driver
Hough H-loo Loader
w/operator
H 70 loader w/operator
Rental 3 dump trailers
n n u i�
n n n n
C-9765 Rocket Crane Service, Inc. Hydro-Crane
��35587
;k35586
,F35585
��6868
Truck Crane Service Co
n n n �i
�� �� �� ��
Modern Erecting Go.
A71 State Improving Co
Robert Crawford
Robert Crawford
Doty & Sons
Vivian A. Frederickson
Walter R. Freeman
George Bergeron
Evert J, Soerhave
Dale Movers
Orville Hoffman
Clayton Jacobson
Tractor & Trailer Dump
n u u
30 Ton Truck Crane
12z Ton Cxane
Ford Trailer & Truck
➢ump Txuck w/driver
IIse of AC-HD 5 Cxawler
Loader
Truck rental w/drivex
Loader and Truck
Dump Truck
Dump Truck, Tandem, Truck
& Cap -Loader Man & Chain
Saw
Dump Truck �,/driver
Cat, & Operator
Cat,
'S3 Ford Dump Truck
Truck w/driver
Weleski & Son Sewer & Water Machine w/operator
Contxactor
��
$7,648.87
$ 903.D0
1,134 OD
1,061.38
1,198.51
560.00
1,0$4.38
2,297,00
1,385.46
1,760.25
720.00
320.00
1,529,00
815.50
2,062,00
535 50
876 00
225.00
122.SD
409.SD
337.25
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INV.
N0. CONTRACTOR
Lucke's Dozer & Equip. Rental
I.angley Builders, Inc.
EQUIPMENT
Single axle dump w/driver
5 da. cha3n saw rental
Tandem Truck w/driver
TOTAL
AMO➢NT
$ 423.25
259.00
$27,667,35
Seconded by Kirkham. Upon a vo=ce vote, there being no nays, the motion
carried unanimously.
RESOLUTION N0. 95-1965 - CENSURE OF CERTAIN INSURANCE COMPANIES AND REQiTESTING
THE COMMISSIONER OF INSURANCE TO ACT TO PROTECT THE PUBLIC INTEREST:
Mayor Nee presented the follow�ng resolution of censute which he suggested that
the City forward to the State Insdrance Commissioner.
RESOLUTION No. 95-1965
A RESOLUTION OF CENSURE OF CERTAIN INSURANCE COMPANTES, AND REQUESTING THE
COMMISSIONER OI' INSURANCE TO ACT TO PROTECT THE PUBLIC INTEREST,
WHEREAS, on May 6, 1965 a series of tornadoes struck the City of Fridley
causing loss of human li�e, personal in�ury and suf£ering and the ma�or
destruction of private and public property, and
WHEAEAS, the President of the IInited States and the Governor of the State
of Minnesota have determined that this event at�d the conditions emerging
from it constitute a"Disaster", and
WHER�A�, official bodies of the State of Minnesota and this governing
body of the City of Fridley have determined conditions o� extraordinary danger
to the health, safety and welfare of the general public exist as a result of
this event, and that extzaordinary public action is required and �ustified,
and
WIIEREAS, in spite of the emergency nature of the danger, the use of the
police power has been limited and the essential elements of "due process" have
been extended to all parties consistent with the emergency circumstances, and
WHEREAS, the gsneral level of cooperation with public authority by the
ins�rance industry has been cou¢nendable and the majority of insurance companies
have been a ma7or asset to the public in this time of disaster and have extended
themselves sulastantially beyond the narrow requirements of the Minnesota Statutes,
and
WHEREAS, a very few insurance companies have acted in a manner inimical to
the health welfare and safety of the general population of the City of I'ridley
through a carefuily calculated scheme of legalistic intimidation of individual
property owners, and
WHEREAS, the pursuit of private contractural interests by certain companxes
have had grave effect on the general public welfare, and
WHEREAS, documentation o� such obstructionist intimidation has been
collected by the City of Fridley in correspondence and meetings of public record,
and
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WI-IEREAS, the Pridley City Council was advised by experts in the fields of ,
public health, san�tation and public safety that the security of the entire
City and its population required removal of debris and the demolition of unsa£e
structures at the earliest possible time, and such a program was adopted as
public policy, and
WHEREAS, the City of Fridley has statutory responsiblity to act to secure
the health, welfare and safety of the people of Fridley, the same being citxzens
of the State of Minnesota.
NOW THEREI'ORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Conncil of the City of
Fridley as follows;
1. That the following named insurance companies have conducted a calculated
campaign of intimidation of private parties and this public body.
2. That this campaign of intimidation reflects a corporate policy which
Ls narxow and self-serving and indicates that these coxposations do not
seek to serve the people of Minnesota
3, That this campagin of intimidation, while �ust inside the limits of the
law, as it exists today, has had the effect of perpetrating conditions
which are dangerous to the people o£ Fsidley and which have effect far
beyond the narrow limits of a private insurance contract existing between
two parties,
� 4. That if the majority of
in a manner similar to those
compounded, and the general
greater degree.
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insurance copanies had conducted their business
listed here, the disaster would have been further
population of this City �eopardized to a much
5. That this disinterested public body, having deliberated at great length,
and having exhausted its means of reasonable persuasion, does most bitterly
censure and condemn the following named corporations;
Farmers Home Mutual Insurance Company
3801 First Avenue South
Minneapolls, Minnesota
Utah Home Fire Insurance Company
47 West South Temple Street
Sa1t Lake CLty, IItah
Shelby MuCual Insurance Company
Shelby, Ohio
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Fridley as
follows:
1. 'That the Commissioner of Insurance establish a B1ue Ribbon Commrttee to
prepare recot[¢nended legislation which would recognize and establish in
law the trancedent rights of the general public in insurance contracts in
times of disaster and great public danger.
2. That the Commissioner of Insurance consider the documentary evidence
evolving from this disasCer in evaluating corporate policy of certain
insurance companies as material in granting the right to enter insurance
contracts in the State of Minnesota.
3. That the Commissioner of Insurance institute necessary action immediately
- for the revocation of licenses of the above named companies to engage in
the insurance business in the State of Minnesota
PASSED AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OE TF� CITY OF
FRIDLEY THIS 9TII DAY OF NNE, 1965.
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%',-c,CJ�t� � ; �.�
MAYOR - WILLIAM J E
ATTEST:
�C�-�.��'�., (�,�r�
CITY CLERK - Marvin C. Brunsell
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, Councilman Thompson stated that he believed the purpose of this resolution
expresses the opinion of the City Counc�l to the Commissioner of Insurance. He
stated that he believes many insutance companies are deliberately slowing
negotiations with the propsrty owners and dragging their heels in order to make it
difficult for properYy owners to secure payment of their claims. He stated that
he believes the Council is morally right in passing this resolution The Mayor
stated that one paragraph of the resolutiQn states that the damage caused by the
tornadoes cxeated health and safety hazaxds in the City and that he believes that
if other insurance companies had insisted that the debris remain in place before
settlement as long as some of the insurance companies have done that the City
would have a terri6le problem of health and safety for its residents.
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Motion by Kirkham to adopt Resolut�on No. 95-1965. Seconded by Thompson.
Upon a voice vote, there being no nays, the motion carried unanimously.
AbSOiTANMENT •
There being no further business, Mayor Nee declared the Special Council Meeting
of .Tune 9, 1965 ad�ourned at 11•23 P.M.
RespectEully submitted:
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Raymond E. Bade William J. ee
Secretary to the Council Mayor
THE MINUTES OF THC SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 14, 1965
A special meeting of the Council of the City of Fridley was called to order
by Mayor Nee at 8t15 P.M.
ROLL CALL:
Members Present
Members Absettt
Nee, Kirkham, Wright
Sheridan, Thompson
ADMINISTERING OATH OF OFFICE TO A MEMBER OF THE FRIDLEY HOUSING AND
RED�VELOPMENT AIITHORITY:
Mayor Nee administered the oath of office to Sohn Meyer as a member of the
Pridley Housing and Redevelopment Authority,
PUBLIC HEARING; FLOOD PLAIN IMPROVEMENT;
Mayor Nee announced that the purpose of the public hearing on Flood P1ain
Improvement is to provide members of the Fridley Housing and Redevelopment
Authority with the opinions and ideas of the residents of the flood plain.
The Mayor stated that the City suggests investigating several solutions to
the flood prohlems in the City of Fridley and that one of these possible
solutions is ixrban renewal ofthe flood plain. If the flood plain should
become a project, the Authority would buy the property on the flood plain,
and the City taouZd purchase the property from the Authority for use as park
property. The Second solution would be for the City to establish zoning
requirements for the flood plain, requiring the elevat�.on of all buildings
built on the flood plain to be above a given elevation which would make them
safe from flood waters. The Mayor asked if any of the people present at the
hearing had any statements to make upon the sub�ect of solutions to the
flooding problem. He asked whether the residents believe that the flood plain
is a suitable place for a City Park.
Mrs. Hock, a resident of Apex Lane, in the City of Fridley, stated that she
would like to have the Authorzty take her home and create a park, 9he stated
that her home was badly damaged by the flood. Mayor Nee asked if anyone
else had any comments. Mr. Belisle, a resident at 7801 Apex Lane, stated
that he helieves it is a11 right for the City to use Urban Renewal as a
solution for property owners that wish to se11 their property, but that
property owners not wishing to sell their property should have a right to
remain in residence on the flood plain. He stated that he 6r�.�eves the C1tp
should build a dike un Riverview Heights to protect the property of the
property owners wishing to remain Yn their present residences, Mr. Belisle
stated that in 1952 he had received 18 inches of water in his house, and in
this last flood the water had risen to a level of 42 inches in his home.
Mayor Nee poznted out to Mr. Belisle that if a dike were buil� along Riverview
Terrace the road �a� the area would still be flooded from flood waters backing
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