03/07/1994 - 00004397�
THE MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING DF THE FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL OF
MARCH 7, 1999
The Regular Meeting of the Friflley City Council was called to order
at 7:34 p.m. by Mayor Nee.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
Mayor Nee led the Council and audience in the Pledge of Allegiance
to the Flag.
ROLL CALL:
MEMBERS PRESENT
MEMBERS ABSENT
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
Mayor Nee, Councilwoman Jorgenson,
Councilman Sillings, and Councilwoman Bolkcom
Councilman Schneider
COUNCIL MEETING, FEBRUARY 22, 1994:
Councilwoman Sorgenson requested that in the last paragraph on
Page 11, the minutes be corrected to show that the Anoka County
Board had allocated $100,000 in their capital improvement plan for
the Locke Lake Dam restoration.
' MOTION by Councilwoman Jorgenson to approve the minutes with the
above correction. Seconded by Councilwoman Bolkcom. Upon a voice
vote, all voting aye, Mayor Nee declared the motion carried
unanimously.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA:
�
MoTION by Councllwoman Jorgenson to adopt the agenda as submitted.
Seconded by Councilwoman Bolkcom. Upon a voice vote, all voting
aye, Mayor Nee declared the motion carried unanimously.
OPEN FORUM, VISITORS:
There was no response from the audience under this item of
business.
PUBLIC HEARING•
1. PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO CHAPTER 220. ENTITLED
"RESIDENTIAL RENTAL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE AND LICENSING CODE:"
MOTION by Councilman Billings to waive the reading of the public
hearing notice and open the public hearing. Seconded by Council-
woman Jorgenson. Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor Nee
declared the motion carried unanimously and the public hearing
opened at 7:38 p.m.
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FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 7, 1994 PAGE 2
Ms. Dacy, Community Development Director, stated that there are a
number of reasons why this proposed ordinance amendment is being
considered. She stated that the existing ordinance was adopted
fifteen years ago and needs to be updated and modernized. Ms. Dacy
stated that the City also wants to establish a routine and
systematic inspection of about one thousand rental units per year
which is one quarter of the total rental units in the City. She
stated that the proposed increase in the fees is to cover the
portion of an inspection program.
Ms. Dacy stated that this proposed ordinance is one part of a
comprehensive housing program which includes single family and
multiple family rehabilitation programs. She stated that another
part of the City's comprehensive program is to establish a rental
owner/landlord coalition, which City staff has doneo
Ms. Dacy stated that some of the major features of this ordinance
involves maintenance of the dwelling units, inspection, and
licensing procedures. She stated that in regard to maintenance,
the ordinance establishes minimum building and structural
standards. She stated that these standards pertain to exterior
appearances, plumbing, heating, electrical, and structural elements
of the lauildings. Ms, Dacy stated that licensing procedures have
been amended to require owners to maintain an occupancy register,
to have written procedures for responding to tenant complaints, and
for accountability for the behavior of tenants. She stated that
license fees would be increased to cover a portion of the cost of
the inspection program.
Ms. Dacy stated that there was concern in regard to inspections
when this proposed ordinance was presented to the owners coalition.
She stated that the concern was whether the City had authority to
complete adequate inspections. She stated that the City Attorney
has indicated there is case law to support such a program. She
stated that City staff would work with the owners to establish a
date and time for the inspections that is convenient to the owners.
She stated that if an inspection is refused staff must obtain a
court order or search warrant. She stated that a re-inspection fee
will be charged if a violation has not been corrected by the third
inspection.
Ms. Dacy stated that at the meeting of the coalition, there was
concern that a violation must be corrected within 24 hours. She
stated that the Fire Department is using this policy only as a
means to obtain a response from the owner when a complaint has been
filed.
Ms. Dacy stated that in reqard to the licensing procedure, the
owner must have a license to rent a dwelling unit. She stated that
� on the license application an agent or operator will be identified
who can make repairs or remain accessible if the owner does not
reside in the immediate area. She stated that owners will be asked
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 7, 1994 PAGE 3
� to provide an occupancy register when asked to the Fire Department
in regard to the number of bedrooms in a unit and the number of
persons occupying a unit.
Ms. Dacy stated that another change is in the licensing fees. She
stated that these proposed fees were reviewed with the owners
coalition. She stated that the amount of revenue generated from
the proposed fee increases is approximately $45,000. She stated
that it is estimated the inspection program will cost $100,000,
with two-thirds of this cost for personnel to conduct the
inspections. She stated that the remaining costs would be for
administration and computer equipment needed to implement the
program.
Ms. Dacy stated that the proposed ordinance addresses tenant
behavior, and a written report must be submitted after two
occurrences of disorderly conduct. She stated that failure of the
owner to comply with this section of the ordinance may trigger a
license revocation hearing before the Council.
Ms. Dacy stated that in drafting this ordinance, staff has reviewed
sixteen ordinances of other communities. She stated that this
proposed ordinance has been reviewed with the coalition, and it is
anticipated a number of persons will comment at this public
� hearing. She stated that the City Attorney's office has been
reviewing the crdinance and had some preliminary comments. These
changes woul� -�aed to be incorporated.
Councilwoman Jorgenson asked for the number of rental units in the
City.
Ms. Dacy stated that there are approximately four thousand.
Councilwoman Jorgenson asked for the number of complaints received
each year from rental units.
Mr Dick Larson, Deputy Fire Chief, stated that last year 527
inspections were completed, and about two-thirds were complaints.
He stated that the complaints involved no heat, water leaks, sewer
backups, or insects in a unit.
Councilwoman Bolkcom asked how long it had been since the fees were
increased.
Mr. Ferneliu;;, HRA Housing Coordinator, stated that the original
ordinance was �dopted in 1964, and there was a$10.00 fee per unit.
He stated that the current fees were adopted in 1981, so they have
not changed in thirteen years.
� Mr. Steve Schachtman, President of Steven Scott Management, Inc.,
stated that he does not own or manage any property in Fridley, but
his company manages approximately six thousand apartment units.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 7, 1994 PAGE 4
� He stated that he was one of the members of the task force in the
City of Plymouth that successfully initiated a municipal monitoring
ordinance and a member of the City of Minneapolis Licensing Review
Board.
Mr. Schachtman stated that the real issue is not better
inspections, as Fridley does a very good job of inspecting their
units. He stated that one issue that needs to be addressed is the
fees. He stated that there are 508 buildings that comprise rental
buildings in the City of Fridley. He stated that to ask the owners
to absorb a 165 percent increase to obtain a proposed revenue of
$46,000 cannot happen. He stated that in Fridley there is housing
under HUD, and the rents cannot be raised.
Mr. Schachtman felt that a task force should be established to come
up with a workable solution. He stated that if there is a fee of
$50.00 per building, that would raise $24,000, and the per unit
charge should be phased in over a four-year period.
Mr. Schachtman stated that owners of rental property are required
under Minnesota statutes to post in the lobby of the building the
appropriate addresses and phone numbers of those responsible. He
stated that the Minnesota Multi-Housing Authority does have some
clout when members are not subscribing to this statute. He stated
� that in regard to occupancy registration, this will be a huge item
to cover because occupancies change so often. He felt what is
actually written in the proposed ordinance is different than the
spirit intended, and it is very difficult to evict tenants.
Mra Schachtman requested a delay on this proposed ordinance for 120
days and asked for a task force to be appointed to discuss the
issues. He stated that the main issues are the fees. He did not
believe that a 165 percent increase is �ustified for people who are
having a difficult time making these rental properties work. He
stated that he did not want the City to experience receivership or
board up properties. He felt that the conduct issue should be
solved and written into the ordinance so it is satisfactory for
everyone. Mr. Schachtman felt that the occupancy registration
issue should be addressed and perhaps have a once a year registra-
tion. He suggested that a licensing review board be created to
deal with those owners that are not abiding by the ordinance.
Councilwoman Jorgenson asked Mr. Schachtman who he represents.
Mr. Schachtman stated that he is a member of the coalition in
Fridley and manages property in every city in the metropolitan
area. Councilwoman Sorgenson stated to Mr. Schachtman that she
received calis this weekend from persons saying that he does not
represent them.
� Mr. Schachtman stated that he is not saying he represents them, but
that he is a concerned member of the Multi-Housing Authority.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 7, 1994 PAGE 5
' Councilwoman Jorgenson pointed out to Mr. Schachtman that the fees
in Plymouth, where he had worked on their ordinance, were more
� expensive than the fees proposed by Fridley. She stated that
Fridley is proposing a$25.00 fee for one unit, and there is a
$104.00 fee in Plymouth for one unit.
Mr, Schachtman stated that only so much rent can be charged, and
the issues of conduct, re-inspection, and the increase in fees has
to be discussed.
Councilwoman Jorgenson stated that Mr. Schachtman had suggested
that a$50.00 per building fee be charged. She asked if he meant
that a owner occupied duplex should pay the same as a forty unit
apartment complex.
Mr. Schachtman felt that perhaps smaller properties from one to ten
could pay a flat fee of $50.00 and then have a per unit cost for
larger units.
Ms. Dacy stated that if the City of Fridley applied the City of
Plymouth's fee schedule to Fridley properties, the revenue raised
would be $68,191. She felt that the proposed increase in fees
would be as consistent as possible on a per unit basis. She stated
that in regard to the occupancy information, she wanted to make it
� clear the City is not tracking tenants. She stated that owners
will be asked to have information available on site, and a monthly
report is not being requested. She stated that in regard to re-
inspection fees, this procedure was reviewed with the landlords and
owners so that }hey are aware that it is included in this proposed
ordinance.
Mr. Herrick, City Attorney, stated that the re-inspection issue and
fee schedule is not his primary concern. He stated that in regard
to the conduct portion, if anyone has suggestions or comments, they
should be submitted in writing for review.
Mr. Schachtman felt that what is written in the proposed ordinance
and what is intended are two different things. He is very
concerned that it should be black and white.
Mr. Ness, 6425 Baker Avenue, stated that as far as the issue of
insects, everyone has them. He stated that people can get
insurance for plumbing problems. He felt that there should be
better housing for older persons, and taxes should be lower.
Mr. Ness felt that salaries of City employees should be reviewed
and questioned why the City does not have volunteers. Mr. Ness
stated that he felt the fees should be frozen, as well as a freeze
on the number of inspectors hired. He stated that the City is
getting to be a business, and he thought they should help the
residents.
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FRIDLEY CITY C�UNCIL MEETiNG OF MARCH 7, 1994 PAGE 6
� Mr. Morrissey, 1601 N. Innsbruck Drive, stated that he owns three
units in the Black Forest complex. He lives in one and rents the
others. He stated that he pays the association fee for these unrts
and if renters have a problem, they oall the management company.
He stated that he did not see the need for an increase in this fee,
He stated that he did not know why the City has a rental fee on
condos, as the association requires him to pay a fee to conduct
background checks on all his tenants. He stated that tenants have
to obey the rules and regulations of the condo associatione
Councilwoman Jorgenson asked how many rental units in the City are
covered under an association.
Mr. Larson, Deputy Fire Chief, stated that there are three
complexes in the City which have an association, the Black Porest
Complex and Unity View Apartments.
Ms. Donna Bramwell, representinq Georgetown Apartments, stated that
one of hAr concerns is the inspection of apartments. She asked if
all apartments would be inspected, even those that are occupied.
Ms. Dacy stated that the Fire Department would establish a schedule
of inspections for one thousand units whether they are occupied or
vacant. She stated that staff would work with the owners to
� determine what units would be inspected.
Ms. Bramwell stated that in their landlord and tenant brochure, it
is stated that they cannot enter their residents' apartments. She
stated that they do not even give out the residents' names or tele-
phone numbers. She stated that she is an apartment dweller and
would be upset if someone came into her apartment, as this is her
home. She stated that she has a problem with this portion of the
ordinance, as she felt it was an invasion of privacy.
Ms. Bramwell felt that the increased fee schedule was bound to
come, and she understands the need for the increase.
Ms. Bramwell stated that in some of their buildings they check all
the safety equipment once a year. She questioned if the owner
could submit a written report rather than the City conducting
inspections of tenants' unrts.
Councilman Billings stated that the purpose of this public hearing
is to obtain input on this proposed ordinance. He stated that all
the information received will be taken into consideration when a
vote is taken on the final draft of the ordinance. He stated that
the proposed ordinance may change considerably based on information
obtained at this public hearing.
� Mr. Herrick stated that in response to Ms. Bramwell's concern
regarding inspections, he stated that inspections of this type are
quite common. He stated that he owns condos in Bloomington, and
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 7, 1999 PAGE 7
� the rates are considerably hiqher than what is proposed in Fridley.
He stated that he knows that Bloomington also inspects condo units
and apartments. He stated that the Supreme Court has ruled that
inspectors cannot enter residential property without the consent
of the owners. He suspects that the same thing would apply to the
tenants; however, the court has also ruled that when a municipality
has a systematic inspection, when consent is not qiven, it is quite
likely the court would authorize the entry for that purpose. He
stated he would hope that in most cases that would not be
necessary, as inspections are for safety purposes.
Ms. Bramwell asked if the owner gives approval, but the tenant does
not, if there would be a court order against the tenant,
Mr. Herrick stated that this is an issue he has to check further.
Ms. Bramwell stated that the property owners have a lot to lose if
they have a fire or if tenants do not take care of their units.
She stated that she would like for the owners to be able to make
their own inspections and submit this information to the City. She
felt that this would also save the City a lot of money. They have
tried this in Maplewood and it has worked.
Mr. Gary Wellner, 8457 Riverview Lane, Brooklyn Park, stated that
' he dzd not think anyone is against the ordinance. He stated that
he has properties in Fridley, as well as several other munici-
palities, and not one has the same ordinance Fridley is
considering. He felt that from a landlord's point of view, it
would be simpler to have a universal ordinance that is statewide.
Mr. Wellner stated that his rents have not changed since 1990.
For the fees he pays to the City, he receives nothing in services.
He felt that the City should not police in a discriminating manner.
He felt that there are single family homes which are run down and
stiould be subjected to the same inspections as multiple units.
Mr. Wellner stated that if he cannot be reached by his tenant, his
lease allows for emergencies to be taken care of by the tenant.
He felt that his tenants would not want the City coming into their
homes for annual inspections. He felt that the City is trying to
7ustify someone inspecting his properties, and basically, that is
telling him he is incompetent. Mr. Wellner stated that the Fire
Department can address complaints when they are received. He
stated that rental property owners pay higher taxes than owners of
single family homes. These inspections could not be done for
single family homes, as it would be political suicide.
Mr. Wellner stated that if the Council wants to clean up the City,
there are a lot of other ways to do it without further government
' intervention. He stated that rewards should be given for those who
maintain their properties.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 7, 1994 PAGE 8
� Councilman Billings stated that Mr. Wellner's suggestion that there
be universal legislation would involve a lot of work, as there are
about eighty municipalities in the seven county metropolitan area.
He stated that he would be happy to work with Mr. Wellner on this
issue as his time permits,
Mr. Wellner stated that he has discussed this with other city
councils, and he felt a group should be formed to address this
issue.
Ms. Norma Rust, 5735 Quincy Street, stated that she owns rental
property in Fridley. She stated that she understands the increased
fees are to fund an inspector. In comparinq license fees in
Brooklyn Park to Fridley's proposed fees, Brooklyn Park can conduct
their inspections with a$25.00 annuai feeo and Fridley is
proposing a $100.00 fee.
Ms. Heidi Skarie, owner and manager of apartment complexes in
Fridley, stated that she has been involved with different
properties around the metropolitan area. She stated that it seems
this ordinance is being proposed because of problems. She stated
that she is well aware of the problems, as they have had cars
broken into and shots fired at cars in their parking lot.
� Ms. Skarie stated that the building itself is very well managed.
Their rents are high enough so they do not have lower income
tenants, and there are no welfare tenants in the building. She
stated that the J�uilding has 32 units, and some people have lived
there for eighteen years. She stated that each year they see more
vandalism. She questioned if the ordinance would take care of the
problem.
Ms. Skarie felt that the Police and Fire Departments and HUD know
which buildings have problems and questioned why all the rental
housing had to be inspected. She stated that they conduct an
annual inspection of the building and did not feel an inspection
of every unit had to be done to te11 if it is well maintained. She
stated that this is a free democratic society and felt this was a
move towards socialism. She stated that property taxes have gone
up significantly. This cannot be changed, but the City can lessen
the burden and not increase fees.
Ms. Skarie felt that all buildings did not need to be inspected,
but those where there are complaints or police calls should be
inspected. She felt that the suggestion for the owner to turn in
an annual report would be good, as it would be cheaper for both the
owners and the City.
Mayor Nee asked if a unit was inspected by HUD, would this be
� acceptable in lieu of the City�s inspection?
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FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 7. 1994 PAGE 9
Ms. Dacy stated that the rotation on the inspection would be done
regardless if i� was a Section 8 unit or noto
Ms. Fleming, manager of Springbrook Apartments and chairperson of
the Rental Owner/Manager Coalition, felt that everyone who spoke
regarding this proposed ordinance had good points. She said she
knows that Ms. Dacy and City staff have spent a lot of time on this
proposed ordinance. She felt that the ordinance could be revised
to the point where everyone could live with it.
Ms. Fleming stated that in regard to inspections, the owners are
doing this themselves. She stated that on the larger properties,
annual inspections are conducted and also when units are vacated.
She stated th?t in regard to the increased fees, it may be possible
to phase them lti and have an increase for those who have violations
or excessive calls or complaints.
Ms. Fleming stated that she was meeting with the Chamber of
Commerce on March 15 to discuss this proposed ordinance and how it
will affect rental industry in Fridley. She felt that everyone
should try to work together for some resolutions that are
satisfactory to all those involved. She sugqested that perhaps a
study group or task force could be formed,
Councilwoman Jorgenson asked how many property owners are
represented by the coalition.
Ms. Fleming stated that at their February 2 meeting, there were
eighty people in attendance but she did not know how many rental
units those people represented.
Councilwoman Jorgenson stated that her concern is for the property
oomers that �w1 the four thousand rental units zn the City and
where they sta��d on this issue.
Ms. Fleming stated that the coalition is very new but their
attendance has been increasing. She said she would try to obtain
this information for the Council.
Mr. Rust, 5735 Quincy Street, stated that he has an eight unit
apartment building in Fridley. He stated that most of the time
when the Fire Department receives complaints it is when a tenant
has been served with an eviction notice. TIe stated that it is hard
to find out about these meetings, as a lot of people who own
property do not get the Focus News. He stated that the coalition
usually meets during the day when property owners may be at their
�obs. He felt that most of the complaints received on rental
properties were not serious and that a lot were related to insects
Mr. Yafee, part owner of the Springbrook Apartments, stated that
the license fee for their complex would increase from $980 to
$2,500. He at�ited that they have 24 hour on-site maintenance and
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 7, 1994 PAGE 10
� managers on call at all times. He stated that he knows there are
some problems, but he felt this ordinance was an over reaction.
He stated that he would favor a task force to discuss this issue
and a phasing in of the fees. He stated that they have 358 units
while Georgetown has 462 units. He felt that the amount of
complaints compared to the number of units was not excessive, He
stated that he would like to work with the City for a more
favorable solution rather than increasing the Pees three times the
amount they are now paying.
Ms. Isler, 1287 Norton Avenue, stated that she owns an eleven unit
building in Fridley and would like to address the 24 hour require-
ment. She felt that this was a 11gray" areae She stated that there
could possibly be a problem this year with water coming into base-
ments. She wondered why a situation like this would have to be
resolved in a 24 hour period. She stated that she resents the fact
that it is written in the ordinance.
Ms. Dacy stated that the intent is not that the problem has to be
resolved in 24 hours, but that it is an informal policy that the
Fire Department wishes to try to contact the owner for acknowledg-
ment to correct the situation.
Ms. Isler stated that she would like to see this in writing. She
� felt that rental property owners should not be singled out, and
inspections should apply across the board to single family
residences.
Mr. Wellner, asked what constitutes a legitimate complaint. He
stated that he did not feel this is spelled out clearly in the
ordinance. He felt that the 24 hour issue also needs to be
addressed. He £elt that the landlord tenant laws are written with
the tenants in mind,
Ms. Dacy stated that the City's housing stock is approximately
thirty to forty years old. She stated that this proposed ordinance
is one part uf a plan to look at all the structures in the City.
She stated that if there are complaints, the existinq ordinance
provides for a response and establishes a routine inspection of
units. She stated that the Council is trying to plan for the
future and establish routine inspections to determine if the
ordinance requirements are being met.
Ms. Dacy stated that Council directed staff to develop a truth-in-
sale ordinance pertaining to single family homes and a scheduled
site acquisition for abandoned buildings or those in a poor state
of repair,
Ms. Dacy stated that the issue is to protect the health, safety,
� and welfare of the residents. A variety of tools have been
reviewed to accomplish this goal.
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FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 7, 1994 PAGE 11
Mr. Wellner felt that all properties in the community should be
involved, not just rental properties. He stated that there are
run-down single family homes.
Mayor Nee stated that Council is moving forward in this direction
to deal with properties that are not up to City standards.
Ms. Bramwell stated that they have lost tenants from the Georgetown
complex beaause of Fridley's poor water. She stated that their
dishwashers do not function properly, and they have to �ake a loss
because of the City's water.
Councilwoman Jorgenson stated that this hearing on the proposed
ordinance was to obtain input and to make necessary changes. She
stated that there were a lot of excellent suggestions, and she felt
that most would be incorporated in one form or another into this
proposed ordinance. She stated that Council has begun to look at
the whole housing situation in Fridley and not just rental
properties. She stated that Council wants to make Fridley a place
where people want to stay. The Council does not want it to become
deteriorated like some cities in the metro�olitan area,
Councilwoman Jorgenson stated that the coalition may wish to
address the problem of landlords who are not maintaining their
� buildings. She stated that perhaps the City Attorney can review
the suggestion that those not maintaining their properties pay
higher fees. She stated that Council is taking a very pro-active
stand regarding all housing issues. This is �ust one in a series
of ordinance changes over the next several years which the Council
will be considering.
�
MOTION by Councilman Billings to receive a letter from Mro Al Bates
regarding this proposed ordinance. Seconded by Councilwoman
�orqenson. Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor Nee declared
the motion carried unanimously.
MOTION by Councilman Billinqs to receive a letter dated March 4,
1994, from Rodger and LaVearle Carey regarding this proposed
ordinance. Seconded by Councilwoman Jorgenson. Upon a voice vote,
all voting aye, Mayor Nee declared the motion carried unanimously.
Councilwoman Bolkcom stated that she talked with several persons
by telephone regarding this proposed ordinance and encouraged them
to submit written comments, as they would be appreciated.
MOTION by Councilwoman Jorgenson to continue this public hearing
to March 21, 1994. Seconded by Councilwoman Bolkcom. Upon a voice
vote, all voting aye, Mayor Nee declared the motion carried
unanimously.
RECESS:
Mayor Nee called a recess at 9:40 p.m.
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1
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 7, 1994 PAGE 12
RECONVENED: Mayor Nee reconvened the meeting at 9:53 p.m. Those
members in attendance were Mayor Nee, Councilwoman
Jorgenson, Councilman Billings, and Councilwoman
Bolkcom.
OLD BUSINESS•
2. ORDINANCE NO. 1026 AMENDING CHAPTER 205 OF THE FRIDLEY CITY
CODE, ENTITLED, "ZONING," AND CHAPTER 211, ENTITLED
"SUBDIVISION," TO AMEND THE PUBLIC HEARING NOTIFICATION
RADIUS:
MOTION by Councilman Billings to waive the reading and adopt
Ordinance No. 1026 on the second reading and order publication.
Seconded by Councilwoman Jorgenson. Upon a voice vote, all voting
aye, Mayor Nee declared the motion carried unanimously.
3. SECOND READING OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 4 OF THE
FRIDLEY CITY CHARTER:
MOTION by Councilwoman Sorgenson to table this item since only four
Councilmembers were present and passage of an ordinance amending
the City Charter requires the unanimous approval of all five
Councilmembers. Seconded by Councilman Billings. Upon a voice
vote, all voting aye, Mayor Nee declared the motion carried
unanimously.
NEW BUSINESS:
4. APPOINTMENTS: CITY EMPLOYEES:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that he wished to recommend four
persons for appointment. He stated that the firs� appointment is
John Palacio as Chief Building Official. He presented
Mr. Palacio's educational background and work history.
MOTION by Councilwoman Jorgenson to concur with the following
appointment by the City Manager:
Name Position
John Chief Building
Palacio Official
Exempt
Starting
Salarv
$42,411.20
per year
$3,534.27
per month
Starting
Date Replaces
Mar. 28, Thomas
1994 Slazina
Seconded by Councilman Billings. Upon a voice vote, all voting
aye, Mayor Nee declared the motion carried unanimously.
Mr. Burns stated that the next two appointments are for patrol
officers. He stated that Jon Burnham and Daniel Douglas are
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 7. 1994 PAGE 13
� recommended for these positions, and he presented their educational
backgrounds and work history.
�
�
MOTION by Councilman Billings
appointment by the City Manager:
Starting
Name Position Salarv
Daniel Patrol $12.61
Douglas Officer per hour
Non-
exempt
to concur with the following
Starting
Date
Mar. 8,
1994
Replaces
New
Position
Seconded by Councilwoman Jorgenson. Upon a voice vote, all voting
aye, Mayor Nee declared the motion carried unanimously.
MOTION by Councilwoman Jorqenson to cancur with the following
appointment by the City Manager:
Starting
Name Position Salarv
Jon Patrol $12.61
Burnham Officer per hour
Non-
exempt
Starting
Date
Mar. 8,
1994
Replaces
New
Position
Seconded by Councilwoman Bolkcom. Upon a voice vote, all voting
aye, Mayor Nee declared the motion carried unanimously,
Mr, Burns stz�i�.3 that the fourth appointment zs Philip Perron as
a Public Services Worker in the Sewer Section. �e reviewed
Mr. Perron's educational background and the past experience he has
had in this field.
MOTION by Councilwoman Bolkcom to concur with the following
appointment by the City Manager:
Name
Philip
Perron
Starting
Position Salarv
Pub11c $10.88
Services per hour
Worker
A.1-Sewer
Non-exempt
starting
Date
Mar. 21,
1994
Replaces
Brett
Goelz
Seconded by Councilman Billings. Upon a voice vote, all voting
aye, Mayor Nce declared the motion carried unanimously.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 7, 1994 PAGE 14
� 5. RESOLUTION NO. 18-1994 IN SUPPORT OF A RENEWAL APPLICATION FOR
A MINNESOTA LAWFUL GAMBLING PREMISE PERMIT TO WORLD
ASSOCIATION OF THE ALCOHOL BEVERAGE INDUSTRIES (WAAB11
(SANDEE'Sle
MOTION by Councilman Billings to adopt Resolution No. 18-1994.
Seconded by Councilwoman Jorgenson. Upon a voice vote, all voting
aye, Mayor Nee declared the motion carried unanimously,
6. RESOLUTION N0. 19-1994 IN SUPPORT OF A RENEWAL APPLICATION FOR
A MINNESOTA LAWFUL GAMBLING PREMISE PERMIT TO WORLD
ASSOCIATI�N OF THE ALCOHOL BEVERAGE INDUSTRIES (WAABI)
(SHOREWOOD INN):
MOTION by Councilman Billings to adopt Resolution No. 19-1994.
Seconded by Councilwoman Jorgenson. Upon a voice vote, all voting
aye, Mayor Nee declared the motion carried unanimously.
7. FIRST READING OF AN ORDINANCE RECODIFYING THE FRIDLEY CITY
CODE, CHAPTER 205, ENTITLED, "ZONING," BY ADDING 205.27 (0-4
WETLAND DISTRICTI AND RENUMBERING OFFICIAL TITLE AND SUMMARY
205.28, AND AMENDING CHAPTER 11, "GENERAL PROVISIONS AND
FEES:"
� Ms. Dacy, Community Development Director, stated that this proposed
ordinance adds a 0-4 Wetland District to the Zoning Code to
implement the 1991 Wetland Conservation Act passed by the state
legislature. She stated that this ordinance mirrors the require-
ments of the state law and is not more restrictive than the state
law.
Ms. Dacy stated that a consultant was hired to identify properties
that contain wetland areas.
Ms. Dacy stated that the City of Lakeville has an ordinance
regarding recovery of fees and staff time to administer their
wetland ordinance. She stated that an amendment is proposed to
Chapter 11 of the ordinance covering fees in order that the City
may charge an administrative fee for special studies such as
environmental assessment worksheets, transportation, drainaqe,
noise impacts, ;ndirect source permits, wetland impacts, etc. She
stated that the amount of the assessment is to be based on the
site, complexity, diversity, and location of the project as
determined by staff, but shall not be less than 2-1/2 times the
hourly wage of estimated staff time.
MOTION by Councilman Billings to waive tne reading and approve this
ordinance on first reading. Seconded by Councilwoman Jorgenson.
Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor Nee declared the motion
� carried unanimously.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 7. 1994 PAGE 15
� 8. APPROVE EXTENSION OF SPECIAL USE PERMIT, SP #93-01, BY
WESTMINSTER CORPORATION, TO ALLOW HOMES FOR THE ELDERLY.
GENERALLY LOCATED NORTA AND EAST OF ST. WILLIAM'S CHURCH
ABUTTING FIFTH STREET N.E.:
MOTION by Councilman Billings to approve the extension of Special
Use Permit, SP #93-01, to September 1, 1994. Seconded by
Councilwoman Jorgenson. Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor
Nee declared the motion carried unanimouslye
9. APPROVE WAIVING FEE FOR TEMPORARY SIGN PERMIT FOR ST.
WILLIAM'S CHURCH, GENERALLY LOCATED AT 6120 FIFTH STREET N.E.:
MOTION by Couiicilwoman Sorgenson to waive the fee for the �emporary
sign permit for St. William's Church. Seconded by Councilman
Billings. Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor Nee declared
the motion carried unanimously.
10. APPROVE JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT FOR THE EXPANSION AND
IMPROVEMENT OF MANOMIN PARK AT LOCKE I,AKE IN ANOKA COUNTY:
Mr. Flora, Public Works Director, stated that the County has
prepared a Soint Powers Aqreement concerninq the purchase of the
residential lot (Sajady property) adjacent to the north side of the
� Locke Lake dam. He stated that the County proposes to purchase the
property and have the City remove the structure. He stated that
the County will own the property as an addition to Manomin Park and
implement future improvements within two years after the Rice Creek
Watershed District completes the dredging of Locke Lake. He stated
that the City is allowed access across the County owned property
to construct the Locke Lake dam.
MOTION by CoLnc•ilwoman Jorgenson to authorize the Mayor and City
Manager to exe�ute the Joint Powers Agreement with the County and
encourages the City Manager and staff to expedite this process,
Seconded by Councilman Billings. Upon a voice vote, Councilwoman
Sorgenson, Councilman Billings and Mayor Nee voted in favor of the
motion. Councilwoman Bolkcom abstained from voting. Mayor Nee
declared the motion carried.
11. APPROVE CHANGE ORDER NO. 1 TO LOCKE LAKE DAM RESTORATION
PROJECT NO. 211•
Mr. Flora, Public Works Director, stated that this change order
deletes items from the Locke Lake Dam restoration project
associated with the park improvements to be completed by Anoka
County. He stated that those items deleted are the fishing pier;
concrete curb and gutter, bituminous parking lot, bituminous
walkway, steel railing, block retaining wall, and a canoe portage.
� MDTION by Cokncilman Billings to approve Change Order No. 1 to the
Locke Lake Dar,. Restoration, Project No. 211, for a deletion of
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 7, 1994 PAGE 16
� $48,306.5o from the original contract with Lunda Construction
Company. Seconded by Councilwoman Jorgenson. Upon a voice vote,
Councilman Billings, Councilwoman Jorgenson and Mayor Nee voted in
favor of the motion. Councilwoman Bolkcom abstained from voting.
Mayor Nee declared the motion carried<
12. RESOLUTION NO. 20-1994 ORDERING PRELIMINARY_ PLANS,
SPECIFICATIONS AND ESTIMATES OF THE COSTS THEREOF: STINSON
BOULEVARD STREET IMPROVEMENT, PROJECT N0. ST. 1993-7:
Mr. Flora, Public Works Director, stated that Fridley has been
working with the City of Mounds View to jointly upgrade Stinson
Boulevard/Pleasant View Drive between 73rd Avenue and Osborne Road.
He stated that a petition was received from residents to upgrade
the road to 38 feet with parking on both sides and the installation
of concrete curb and gutter.
MOTION by Councilwoman Jorgenson to adopt Resolution No. 20-1994.
Seconded by Councilman Billings. Upon a voice vote, all voting
aye, Mayor Nee declared the motion carried unanimously.
13. RESOLUTION N0. 21-1994 RECEIVING THE PRELIMINARY REPORT AND
CALLING FOR A PUBLIC HEARING ON MARCH 21, 1994, ON THE MATTER
� OF CONSTRUCTION OF CERTAIN IMPROVEMENTS: STINSON BOULEVARD
STREET IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. ST. 1993-7:
MOTION by Councilwoman Sorgenson to adopt Resolution No. 21-1994.
Seconded by Councilman Billings. Upon a voice vote, all voting
aye, Mayor Nee declared the motion carried unanimously.
14. RESOLUTION NO. 22-1994 AUTHORIZING AND DIRECTING THE
SPLITTINGfCOMBINATSON OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS ON: LOT l.
BLOCK 1, AND LOTS 7 AND 8, BLOCK 2, NORTHCO BUSINESS PARK:
MOTION by Councilman Billings to adopt Resolution No. 22-1994.
Seconded by Councilwoman Bolkcom. Upon a voice vote, all voting
aye, Mayor Nee declared the motion carried unanimously.
15. INFORMAL STATUS REPORTS:
OUTDOOR FOOD SALES:
Ms. Dacy, Community Development Director, stated that at a previous
meeting of the Council, Mr. Turner appeared before the Council
asking if Council would consider an amendment to the ordinance to
permit outdoor sales of food, as he operates a mini-doughnut stand.
She stated that staff has developed three options for Council's
consideration: (1) no change; (2) require a special use permit in
� a C-2 and C-3 district; and (3) permit this use as an accessory use
in a C-2 and C-3 district and require a license for a"seasonal
food sale."
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FRIDLEY CITY COIINCIL MEETING OF MARCH 7. 1994 PAGE 17
Ms. Dacy stated that if the Council wishes to permit the outdoor
sale of food, a determination would have to be made if it would be
only for the sale of mini-doughnuts or a broader definition of
"seasonal food sales.10 She stated that if this is allowed,
consideration should be given to standards or stipulations to be
included in the ordinance such as the area of sale, location in
relation to major entrances, protection of pedestrian waiting
areas, equipment meeting all code requirements, site plans, etc.
She stated that staff recommends that the City continue to prohibit
outdoor sales of food in the C-2 and C-3 zoning districts,
Councilman Billings asked about the outdoor sale of food at the
'49er Days celebration and at Moore Lake Seach.
Ms. Dacy stated that the '49er Days Committee obtain approval to
permit the food vendors to operate on a temporary basis. She
stated that at Moore Lake beach, license approval is obtained from
the Health Department. She stated that Chapter 32 of the City's
license ordinance does exempt governmental subdivisions from going
through the licensing procedure. She stated that in both these two
cases, the activities are held on property zoned "Public District."
She stated that this district is drafted very loosely. Because
these have been municipal activities, there has not been a question
raised.
Councilman Billings felt that out of fairness, if it is acceptable
for the City to have outdoor sales of food, it should be acceptable
for others to do the same thing.
Ms. Dacy stated that she felt there was a distinction between the
intensity of the uses. She stated that Mr. Turner proposes to
operate on a continuing basis for as many months as possible.
Councilman Billings stated that his initial response would be to
take a closer look at allowing this kind of use for a specific
period of time. He stated that he did not know if this would
create a problem. He felt that the permit process should have
sufficient stipulations. He stated that one problem he has is that
often governmental units exempt themselves fr_om rules and expect
everyone else to abide by them.
Councilwoman Jorgenson stated that she would concur with Councilman
Billings. She felt that the City should exempt themselves and not
allow others the same type of access.
Councilwoman Bolkcom stated that she would also agree. Her only
concern is that sales of this nature may cause problems in other
areas as far as pedestrians and traffic.
Mr. Herrick, City Attorney, felt one issue that should be clear is
if this would be an outdoor sale or consumption of food.
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FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 7. 1994 PAGE 18
Councilman Bil.lings stated that he would like staff to review this
item and have these permits for a definite period of time. He
would also lik� Council to have the opportunity to review them
annually.
Mr. Herrick felt that an annual review would be acceptable. If
any conditions were placed on the permit and were violated, the
permit could be revoked.
Mayor Nee requested staff to work on this issue and bring it back
to the Council.
16. CLAIMS•
MOTION by Councilwoman Jorgenson to authorize payment of Claim Nos.
54298 through 54530. Seconded by Councilwoman Bolkcom. Upon a
voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor Nee declared the motion carried
unanimously.
17. LICENSEB;
MOTION by Counc.ilman Billings to approve the licenses as submitted
and as on file in the License Clerk's Office. Seconded by Council-
woman Bolkcom. Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor Nee
declared the motion carried unanimously,
18. ESTIMATES•
MoTION by Councilwoman Bolkcom to approve the estimates as
submitted:
Newquist & EYcstrum, Chartered
301 Fridley Plaza Office Building
6401 University Avenue N.E.
Fridley, MN 55432
Statement for Services Rendered as
City Prosecuting Attorney for the
Month of January, 1994. .... o 0 0...$ 15,528.75
Maier Stewart « Associates
1326 Energy Park Drive
St. Paul, MN 55108
52nd Avenue
Pro�ect No.
Estimate .
Floodway/Clover Pond Diversion
222
Locke Park Filter Plant Modification
� Project No. 240
Estimate .
$ 1,570.00
$ 7,651.23