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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1993 03-22 CCM Regular Session MINUTES OF THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BROOKLYN CENTER IN THE COUNTY OF HENNEPIN AND THE STATE OF MINNESOTA REGULAR SESSION MARCH 22, 1993 CITY HALL CALL TO ORDER The Brooklyn Center City Council met in regular session and was called to order by Mayor Todd Paulson at 7 P .m. ROLL CALL Mayor Todd Paulson, Councilmembers Celia Scott, Dave Rosene, Barb Kalligher, and Kristen Mann. Also present were City Manager Gerald Splinter, Director of Public Works Sy Knapp, Finance Director Paul Holmlund, City Attorney Charlie LeFevere, Public Works Coordinator Diane Spector, Police Chief Trevor Hampton, Director of Community Development Brad Hoffman, Community Development Specialist Tom Bublitz, City Assessor Mark Parish, City Engineer Mark Maloney, and Council Secretary Nancy Berg. OPENING CEREMONIES Betty Tombers offered the invocation. OPEN FORUM Mayor Paulson noted the Council had received one request to use the open forum session this evening. Steve Swanson, 5412 Colfax Avenue, stated he would withhold any comments until the Council addressed the matter of street improvements as listed on the agenda. COUNCIL REPORTS Mayor Paulson presented Bev Wolfe, Chairperson for the Charter Commission. Ms. Wolfe stated she was there tonight to make a presentation to Allen K. Anderson who served on the Charter Commission from February 1985 to February 1993. She stated he was a distinguished member who had also served as chairperson for the Charter Commission. She presented Mr. Anderson with an award. Mayor Paulson thanked Mr. Anderson and informed him the Council would be passing a resolution tonight on the consent agenda expressing recognition and appreciation for his dedicated public service. He added the Council was aware of his good service on the Charter Commission, and he hoped the City could use his services again. 3/22/93 _ I _ APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA Mayor Paulson inquired if any Councilmembers requested any items be removed from the consent agenda. Councilmember Mann asked the March 2, 1993, minutes and item 7a be removed from the consent agenda. Councilmember Rosene asked the March 8, 1993, minutes and item 7b be removed from the consent agenda. RESOLUTIONS RESOLUTION NO. 93 -41 Member Celia Scott introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING D'AMICO TO SERVE LIQUOR AT THE EARLE BROWN HERITAGE CENTER UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES, §340.404, SUBD. 4 The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member Barb Kalligher, and the motion passed unanimously. RESOLUTION NO. 93 -42 Member Celia Scott introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION ACCEPTING QUOTE AND AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF ONE (1) GREENS MOWER FOR GOLF COURSE The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member Barb Kalligher, and the motion passed unanimously. RESOLUTION NO. 93 -43 Member Celia Scott introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION EXPRESSING RECOGNITION OF AND APPRECIATION FOR THE DEDICATED PUBLIC SERVICE OF BETTILOU CHRISTOPHER The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member Barb Kalligher, and the motion passed unanimously. RESOLUTION NO. 93 -44 Member Celia Scott introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION EXPRESSING RECOGNITION OF AND APPRECIATION FOR THE DEDICATED PUBLIC SERVICE OF ALLEN K. ANDERSON The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member Barb Kalligher, and the motion passed unanimously. 3/22/93 -2- RESOLUTION NO. 93 -45 Member Celia Scott introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION ACCEPTING WORK PERFORMED AND APPROVING FINAL PAYMENT FOR DATA PROCESSING ENHANCEMENTS FOR THE WATER UTILITY SCADA SYSTEM AND FOR THE SANITARY SEWER UTILITY INTRAC SYSTEM, IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 1992 -15, CONTRACT 1992 -L The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member Barb Kalligher, and the motion passed unanimously. RESOLUTION NO. 93 -46 Member Celia Scott introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING THE 1993 DISEASED TREE REMOVAL PROGRAM, APPROVING SPECIFICATIONS AND DIRECTING ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS, IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 1993 -01, CONTRACT 1993 -A The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member Barb Kalligher, and the motion passed unanimously. RESOLUTION NO. 93 -47 Member Celia Scott introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO WRITE -OFF UNCOLLECTIBLE ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLES The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member Barb Kalligher, and the motion passed unanimously. LICENSES There was a motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Councilmember Kalligher to approve the following list of licenses: MECHANICAL SYSTEMS Centraire, Inc. 7402 Washington Ave. S. LSV Metals, Inc. 6800 Shingle Creek Pkwy. Thermex Corporation 4850 Park Glen Road I POOL AND BILLIARDS TABLES Three Lakes Development, LP III 3000 Justin Drive Duds 'n Suds 6824 Humboldt Ave. N. I 3/22/93 -3 - RENTAL DWELLINGS Renewal: Norman Chazin Brookdale Manor Apts. Norman Chazin Four Courts Apartments Gary Scherber Lilac Apartments Norman Chazin Northbrook Terrace Apts. Norman Chazin 6037 Brooklyn Blvd. William and Nancy Dahlquist 4700 Lakeview Ave. N. Gary Scherber 5820 Logan Ave. N. Tracy Rice 6907 Morgan Ave. N. Lawrence R. Florian 857 -861 70th Ave. N. S. Richard Silverness 873 -877 70th Ave. N. James R. Hokanson 881 -885 70th Ave. N. TAXICAB Town Taxi, #69 2500 Washington Ave. N. APPROVAL OF MINUTES MARCH 2, 1993 - SPECIAL WORK SESSION Councilmember Mann asked the word "or" be changed to "and" in paragraph 1, page 5, of the March 2, 1993, special work session minutes. The paragraph would be corrected to read: Councilmember Mann asked if the City had a 20 -year program set. The City Manager explained this was what the City was starting. Councilmember Mann stated it was more logical to go with areas A and B then. Councilmember Rosene asked if the City could do both A and B. The City Manager answered the City could, but staff wanted to handle just one area the first year to assure staff can cover the job. He recommended Council hold the public hearing on both and then chose either Area A or B. There was a motion by Councilmember Rosene and seconded by Councilmember Mann to approve the minutes of March 2, 1993, special work session as amended. Vote on the motion: four ayes, one abstain. Councilmember Scott abstained- The motion passed. MARCH 8, 1993 - REGULAR SESSION Councilmember Rosene asked the March 8, 1993, regular session minutes be changed on page 13, paragraph 2, to remove "the 15' greenstrip" and change to "12' abutment with the R1 property ". The paragraph would be corrected to read: Councilmember Rosene explained if it were not for the 12' abutment with the R1 property requirement, the applicant would have been able to build a cookie- cutter type station without all of the enhancements recommended by the study. 3/22/93 - 4 - Councilmember Rosene asked that neither the March 2 nor the March 8, 1993, minutes be reprinted for Council edification. There was a motion by Councilmember Rosene and seconded by Councilmember Mann to approve the minutes of March 8, 1993, regular session as amended. The motion passed unanimously. PRESENTATIONS BROOKLYN CENTER JOB RETENTION/BUSINESS EXPANSION PROGRAM The City Manager presented Mr. Netwal of the Community Resource Partnership, Inc. He explained Mr. Netwal would update the Council on the current status of the business retention/job expansion program which had been jointly undertaken by the cities of Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, and Blaine. Mr. Netwal explained he had grown up in Brooklyn Center, and he took extra pride in his work for Brooklyn Center. He stated there had already been benefits with the business retention/job expansion program. He added the program conveyed the City's interest in the business community. He further added the surveys indicated a number of "red flags" for the City to investigate such as pot holes in front of the businesses and city ordinances that pose a particular problem for a business. He explained one of the red flag issues was power outages experienced by one company, and after checking with other companies, it was discovered other companies in the area were having the same problem. He further explained NSP had been notified and was investigating the problem. Mr. Netwal stated a significant result of the survey was the ability to match the business community needs with other already existing businesses in the community providing those needed services. He added a number of companies had also requested specific training from the community colleges, and the colleges were actively approaching these companies to work on a program. Mr. Netwal explained over 500 businesses had been interviewed with approximately one -third being Brooklyn Center businesses. He summarized the benefits of the program: 1. Positive image of City's concern. 2. City staff was made aware of problems businesses are experiencing. 3. Access to community colleges and Chamber of Commerce. 4. Sense of community. 3/22/93 - 5 - Mayor Paulson asked if all the materials were available to the Councilmembers. The City Manager answered everything was available, and when it had been summarized, it would be presented to the Council. He added this was just an update on the program. Mayor Paulson asked if all the information would be public information. Mr. Netwal answered the compiled data would be public but certain company information was private and must be protected. Councilmember Scott asked if there would be a simplified, short version of the results of the surveys. Mr. Netwal answered yes and there would be an unlimited number of reports which could be developed from the surveys. Councilmember Kalligher asked when the summary would be completed. Mr. Netwal answered the entire project was a three -year project. He added they had now completed the bulk of the manufacturing companies, and the task force would probably need four to six months to complete a report on the manufacturing businesses. He continued in the meantime they would also be working on the warehousing and retail businesses. The City Manager explained the Minnesota Department of Economic Development had some standards, and it also has data privacy requirements which the program had been careful to follow. Mayor Paulson asked what would result from this program. Mr. Netwal answered a series of recommendations from the task force to help encourage business within the community. Mayor Paulson asked who would develop the marketing plans. Mr. Netwal answered that would be determined by the Council and staff. He added Community Resource Partnership would be making recommendations and actually the data would point its own direction. He continued that the City would make judgments on how it wanted to get involved. Mayor Paulson asked who owned the data after the study was completed. The City Manager answered the three communities would own the data as regulated by the Data Privacy Act. Mayor Paulson asked about the data at Community Resource Partnership. Mr. Netwal answered he did not know what use they would have for it. Mayor Paulson asked if Community Resource Partnership had a budget for 1993. Sarah Nelson stated she would be happy to supply the Council with a budget for 1993. She added the plan was to continue to keep the data updated after the study was complete. Councilmember Rosene stated he had been criticized for hiring Community Resource Partnership by a citizen who believed the same information was available from the Minnesota Department of Economic Development. He asked if Community Resource Partnership had availed themselves of whatever information was available. Mr. Netwal answered that Community Resource Partnership had been working with the Minnesota Department of Economic Development and had actually been providing them with 3/22/93 - 6 - CORRECTION information and they were very appreciative. He added the Department of Economic Development was very supportive of this project. Councilmember Rosene asked if the Department of Economic Development was able to provide any helpful information. Mr. Netwal answered yes they provided preliminary input on the manufacturing survey and also with some training tools. He added Community Resource Partnership had also been cooperating with the State on this project. Councilmember Rosene asked if this sort of survey had been done in other areas in the State. Councilmember Scott answered in other areas of the nation, but not as intensive. Mr. Netwal explained the "Star Cities" in Minnesota must complete a similar survey on about ten to fifteen of its major companies. The City Manager stated the need for training had been the most productive result of the survey. Councilmember Rosene asked if Mr. Netwal had asked the businesses how they would like to see the information used. Mr. Netwal answered not specifically but a number of the businesses requested they be informed of the results, and Community Resource Partnership would provide them with newsletter updates and a synopsis of the final report. He also suggested using the Chamber of Commerce as a forum to share the information with the business community. Mr. Netwal further stated the manufacturing task force, which is made up of manufacturers, was addressing that very question. Councilmember Rosene asked who representatives from Brooklyn Center were on the task force. Mr. Netwal answered Theron Horn and Wally Wassensmith. Mayor Paulson asked Sarah Nelson what relationship this project had with the North Metro Mayors Association. Ms. Nelson answered there was no direct relationship. She added she was an employee of North Metro Mayors Association and anything else she did was on her own time. Mayor Paulson thanked Community Resource Partnership for their presentation. PUBLIC HEARING PUBLIC HEARING 1993 (YEAR XIX) URBAN HENNEPIN COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM AND RESOLUTION APPROVING YEAR XIX URBAN HENNEPIN COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM The City Manager stated the required public hearing for the proposed use of Year XIX Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds was scheduled this evening for 7 :30 p.m. He added the City's CDBG allocation for Year XIX (July 1993 to July 1994) was $235,627 which was slightly greater than the Year XVIII of $217,491. 3/22/93 -7- The Community Development Specialist reviewed the CDBG requests and recommendations for Year XIX as follows: 1. Rehabilitation of Private Property: He explained this was a continuation of the City's home rehabilitation deferred loan program. He also added there was a waiting list of 65 people for this program. 2. Household Outside Maintenance for the Elderly (H.O.M.E.) Program: He explained the program provides for minor home maintenance and repair for persons 60 years of age and over or for disabled persons. 3. Scattered Site Redevelopment: He explained this activity provides for the continuation of the acquisition and demolition of blighted residential properties in the City. 4. Business Retention Study: He explained this allocation provided for a continuation of the business retention study. 5. Public Facilities Project for Head Start Program: He stated this activity would provide for the City of Brooklyn Center's share of a project to remodel the old Brooklyn Park City Hall for use by Head Start and other early childhood services. He added this was a one -time contribution to the project and operating dollars for the program would be obtained from state and federal sources. He further added the implementating agency for the project would be Parents in Community Action. He also added the project was being coordinated through the Northwest Hennepin Human Services Council. The Community Development Specialist stated in addition to the above- listed projects, City staff had received a request from Community Action for Suburban Hennepin for $2,645 from CDBG funds to support their housing services in fiscal year 1994. He added staff was not recommending this allocation as the service would only be eligible if it was established to be a benefit to low- to moderate - income persons. Mayor Paulson asked what category business retention would come. The Community Development Specialist answered the economic development portion, as the project could be linked to providing retention of employment for moderate - income persons. Mary Bock, representative from Parents in Community Action, addressed the Council. She stated the City of Brooklyn Park had been very generous to donate its old city hall for the program. She explained the program now needs the money to renovate the building. Mayor Paulson asked if more children from Brooklyn Center would be served at this new facility. Ms. Bock explained when the facility in Brooklyn Park was opened, it would be full and they would be seeking additional space. She further explained the program would be serving 360 children from suburban Hennepin County this year. 3/22/93 - 8 - Councilmember Scott asked what happened now with the Cities of Maple Grove and Plymouth who were refusing to pay their share of the funding. Ms. Bock answered she did not know, but she hoped these cities would still come on board. She further explained the children from these communities would be served regardless. Councilmember Rosene asked for the exact status of the funding from Maple Grove and Plymouth. Ms. Bock answered Plymouth had tabled the matter pending further study. She said they had since visited the facility and their major concern was with the location. She added the matter was still pending in Maple Grove, and she hoped they would come on board. Councilmember Kalligher asked why Golden Valley had allocated less funds than requested. Ms. Bock answered Golden Valley felt a smaller number of children from Golden Valley were served. Councilmember Rosene noted Osseo had allocated more than requested and asked why. Ms. Bock explained Philip Cohen had worked with each city, and she did not know why but he might. Mayor Paulson explained he was on the site selection committee and asked Ms. Bock to explain to the Council the reason this site was selected. Ms. Bock stated the selection of that facility from the other options presented had mainly to do with licensing ability of the facility by the State. She added the old Brooklyn Park City Hall was nearly ideal in terms of meeting those guidelines. She further added it was offered to the program for $1 per year on an unlimited basis. She also stated the largest concentration of children was from Brooklyn Center and Brooklyn Park. Mayor Paulson asked if the children would have the same door -to -door service. Ms. Bock answered yes, they would provide the same door -to -door transportation regardless of where the families live. Mayor Paulson thanked Ms. Bock for her presentation. Mayor Paulson opened the meeting for the purpose of a public.hearing to consider the 1993 (Year XIX) Urban Hennepin County Community Development Block. Grant Program and Resolution Approving Year XIX Urban Hennepin County Community Development Block Grant Program at 8:05 p.m. He inquired if there was anyone present who wished to address the Council, no one appeared to speak, and he entertained a motion to close the public hearing. There was a motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Councilmember Kalligher to close the public hearing at 8:05 p.m. The motion passed unanimously. 3/22/93 - 9- Councilmember Mann asked if the $2,063 expended for the H.O.M.E. program was expended in year XVIII. The Community Development Specialist answered yes. Councilmember Mann inquired if the program was being reduced by $4,000. The Community Development Specialist answered yes, and he believed the amount would be adequate for year XIX. Councilmember Kalligher asked what happened to any money left over at the end of the year. The Community Development Specialist answered this had not previously happened. He suggested if the amount was less than $10,000, the Council could amend the resolution and place the money into the Home Rehabilitation Program or it would be recycled back into the program but the County would then take a cut. Councilmember Kalligher asked how residents are informed of the program. The Community Development Specialist answered an ad had been placed in the City newsletter and the Earle Brown Neighborhood newsletter, and he also planned to go to senior meetings to announce it there. Councilmember Rosene stated he regretted the Community Action for Suburban Hennepin was in need of money; however, the Council was not in the habit of granting requests presented directly to the Council. He explained such a request must first go through one of the City's commissions such as the Housing Commission or the Human Rights and Resources Commission for evaluation. He recommended waiting on this request until next year. Mayor Paulson thought this was a good point and agreed the request should be forwarded to one of the commissions. He explained the other programs, with the exception of the Business Retention Program, had been reviewed by various commissions. The Community Development Specialist explained the Community Action for Suburban Hennepin was really the only one that had not been on the table. Mayor Paulson recommended the Community Action for Suburban Hennepin request and the Business Retention Program go through one of the City's commissions for review. He explained the Council had received a good presentation on the Business Retention Program, but he wanted to know more about what would develop from the program and the exact budget for 1993. He added he also wanted to know who would own the data after the study was complete. He suggested the Human Rights and Resources Commission review these two programs and added he was comfortable with the other programs. Councilmember Kalligher asked when the Council had to finalize the Community Development Block Grant Program for year XIX. The Community Development Specialist answered the program must be submitted to the County by April 15, 1993. 3/22/93 - 10- Mayor Paulson asked if the City could amend the budget during the course of the year. The Community Development Specialist answered yes. The Director of Community Development stated the City had the option to amend the program during the course of the year. RESOLUTION NO. 93 -48 Member Celia Scott introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION APPROVING PROPOSED PROGRAM FOR YEAR XIX URBAN HENNEPIN COUNTY COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT FUNDS AND AUTHORIZING ITS SUBMITTAL Councilmember Scott requested this resolution include the Business Retention Study and eliminate the request from Community Action for Suburban Hennepin and then refer the Community Action for Suburban Hennepin request to the Human Rights and Resources Commission for further study and also to look at what the City would expect from the Business Retention Program. Councilmember Scott stated the Business Retention Program had progressed further than she had anticipated. She added the results would not only benefit the business community but also the people of the community. She continued to add she thought it would accomplish what the Council wanted. She stated it was her understanding the data would be owned by the three communities who had commissioned the study with the exception of those facts protected by the Data privacy Act. Mayor Paulson stated these facts were not enough for him to allocate $30,000. He stated he thought in the past these types of requests had come through other processes before funds were allocated. He added he did think the City needed to do something in the business retention area. He suggested talking to the Chamber of Commerce to set up business town meetings to receive input from the businesses in the community. Councilmember Mann stated she was also concerned about the allocation of $30,000 to the Business Retention Program. She added she did believe the Council should request the CDBG funds now and if, after review by the Human Rights & Resources Commission, the Council decided not to fund these programs, the money could be distributed to the other programs. Councilmember Scott agreed if the Human Rights & Resources Commission did not approve, the Council could allocate the funds to another program. The Community Development Specialist stated the dollars for year XIX could not be spent until July 1993. Mayor Paulson added the Council should have a determination from the Human Rights & Resources Commission by then. The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member Barb Kalligher, and the motion passed unanimously. 3/22/93 - 11 - DISCUSSION ITEMS CITY ENGINEER'S FEASIBILITY REPORT FOR NEIGHBORHOOD STREET IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM The City Manager presented the City Engineer's feasibility report regarding the proposed Neighborhood Street Improvement Program in the Southeast neighborhood. He explained the feasibility report reviewed the existing conditions and recommended street, utility, street lighting, landscaping, and other improvements in the area bounded by Logan Avenue to the west and 4th Street to the east, between 53rd and 55th Avenues. The Director of Public Works explained there were three resolutions provided for Council consideration: one amending special assessment policy; one establishing projects in the Southeast neighborhood and calling for a public hearing; and one directing staff to hold a neighborhood information meeting prior to the public hearing. He added the average age of the streets in Brooklyn Center was more than 30 years old, and the cost to maintain the streets and utilities would be more than to start a 20 -year reconstruction program. He explained in addition to the City's cost to maintain the streets, the property owners' costs would also increase due to the collapse of the sanitary sewer lines. He also added there was a need for the City to undertake programs which were intended to revitalize the City. The Director of Public Works presented a brief history of the program. He stated the proposal had been before the City Council four or five times in the last year and one -half. He added the Earle Brown Neighborhood Advisory Committee had also met several times to review this project. The City Engineer reviewed the feasibility report using overheads to show the proposed area, reviewed the proposed improvements to the sanitary sewer system, the proposed sanitary sewer improvements, and storm sewer improvements. Councilmember Kalligher asked if there were some areas without storm sewers. The City Engineer answered yes and some were so shallow they were subject to freeze /thaw and were not functional during this time of the year. Councilmember Rosene asked when the 57th Avenue project was scheduled. The City Engineer answered it was scheduled in the Capital Improvements Program for 1995. The Director of Public Works added staff must wait until the citywide Water Management Plan study is completed before proceeding with the 57th Avenue project. The City Engineer reviewed the proposed street improvements and the street lighting options. He added it was staff recommendation to purchase street lighting fixtures rather than leasing. 3/22/93 - 12- RECESS The Brooklyn Center City Council recessed at 9 p.m. and reconvened at 9:15 p.m. j Mayor Paulson asked the agenda be interrupted to allow for a presentation by the Northwest Branch of the American Red Cross. Jim Ember and Jeff Halum informed Council of an upcoming Mayors Bowl -A- Cross. They asked the residents and businesses of Brooklyn Center support the American Red Cross through the Mayors Bowl -A Cross. They explained the mayor would be competing against 14 other local mayors for pledges. They stated contributions could be mailed to American Red Cross, Northwest Branch, 7601 Kentucky Avenue, Brooklyn Park, MN 55428. Councilmember Rosene asked if the contributions were to be a flat fee or per pin pledge. Mr. Ember answered residents and businesses could donate whatever amount they chose. He added the Bowl -A -Cross would take place at Spectrum Lanes in Maple Grove, Highway 494 and Bass Lake Road on May 5 at 6 p.m. The City Engineer continued his report on the landscaping/streetscaping for the study area. He reviewed boulevard tree planting, planting amenities in the right -of -way, paving surfaces, street signs, entry monuments, and other street furniture. He added the application of enhanced street signage and entry monuments appeared to be the most appropriate within the Southeast neighborhood. The City Engineer also reviewed the park improvements and sidewalk/trail improvements. He explained the neighborhood park in the Study Area was Bellvue Park. He further explained no major improvements were scheduled at this time for the park. He added several maintenance improvements could be programmed in conjunction with the neighborhood improvement project such as painting the shelter building, trimming all trees, removing animal swings and replacing with tot swings, and upgrading apparatus and recreational facilities in 1994. He further explained the sidewalk/trail improvements included an on- street trail along Bryant Avenue from 53rd Avenue northward. He continued to explain no sidewalk improvements were specifically proposed other than the possible replacement of damaged sections of existing sidewalk. The Public Works Coordinator reviewed the funding sources for the proposed improvements and the appraisal report- of the benefits of roadway improvements upon five lots. She explained the results of these appraisals indicated in the Southeast neighborhood the amount of benefit from the proposed street improvements varies by size of lot. She explained it was current City policy to assess on a per unit basis but based on the appraiser's findings it appeared more appropriate to base an assessment policy on a front foot charge. The Public Works Coordinator presented the special assessment recommendations. She explained the recommended term would be 10 years with an interest rate of eight percent. She further explained based on an assessment of $1,512, the monthly payment the first year 3/22/93 - 13 - would be $25, and in the tenth year the payment would be $13.50 a month. She continued to add the lighting fixtures would add approximately $1.22 per month, and landscaping would add another $.50 per month. The Public Works Coordinator explained the current assessment policy included a provision to assist senior citizens and disabled persons with payment of special assessments. She further explained the option offers limited relief to only a few property owners. She stated it was the recommendation of the report that a program of Assessment Stabilization be formally adopted to assist low- income homeowners with payment of special assessments. She further explained the Assessment Stabilization program would provide financial assistance to homeowners whose family income was less than the HUD "lower income" guideline. She added the total cost of the program during the 20 -year period was estimated to be about $3.1 million with the annual cost, assuming a four mile improvement project, would vary but was estimated at $110,000 to $160,000. She stated it was proposed for the first year of the program the reimbursement be funded from the Local State Aid fund. She also suggested potential sources of funds for future years might be CDBG funds, franchise fees, local option sales tax, or transportation utility, if approved. Mayor Paulson explained the street improvement package was being presented to the public at this meeting, however the Council members had already attended several meetings to review these materials. Steve Swanson, 5412 Colfax Avenue, addressed the Council stating the whole subject of street improvements was absurd. He explained he had just learned of this project a week ago and had questioned his neighbors in his area and they knew nothing about it either. He stated there are about ten retired people on his block and this would be very difficult for them. He also stated he was unaware of any trees growing into. the sewers, and he had found no water problems during the last rain storm. He continued to state he was concerned about the installation of curb and gutters. He explained he did not know how this would improve the value of his property. He continued to explain the only way he would gain this value was if he sold his property. Councilmember Rosene asked Mr. Swanson if the primary issue was the cost.. He asked if there were no assessments would he be in favor of the project.:: Mr. Swanson :answered yes, that was the basic issue. He explained he did not experience the problems the report listed. Councilmember Rosene suggested staff spend some time with Mr. Swanson to explain the problems in his area. Mr. Swanson stated he had come to the Council meeting to receive more information. Councilmember Scott suggested the City Manager explain how staff viewed the area to see the problems. The City Manager explained the sewers had been televised and Mr. Swanson could view the area in front of his house. The Director of Public Works stated he would be happy to talk one on one with Mr. Swanson and answer his questions. 3/22/93 - 14 - Councilmember Rosene asked the City Engineer about the practice of replacing sections of pipe with different sized pipe. The City Engineer answered all of the sections proposed to be replaced begin and end at manholes and they would adjust for the sizes there. Councilmember Rosene asked about the proposal to deepen the sanitary sewer and if that would meet the maximum depth too soon. The City Engineer answered they would work the preliminary grades backwards and it would be a compromise between the adopted engineering standards and what was there now. Councilmember Scott stated the Assessment Stabilization program was a wonderful idea. She asked if the program was established and the City could not afford to finance in the future, what would the City do. She suggested scaling back the program unless the City Manager thought the program could be financed in the future. The City Manager stated that was an excellent question but over time he believed it would be a reasonable plan. He warned if Council scaled back too far on this, then Council would have to be consistent in the future. Councilmember Scott again stated she thought it was a fantastic program but she wanted residents to be treated equally. She added she did not think it paid to try to patch the streets or utilities anymore. Councilmember Rosene agreed with Councilmember Scott and the City Manager as an overall investment in value, the City needed to do this. He suggested CDBG funds could conceivably be used for the Assessment Stabilization program in the future. He stated he would like to try to see if the costs could be defrayed even more. He explained some residents simply do not have enough money to fund this program. He stated the City was on a 20 -year cycle for street improvements and yet the present streets have lasted 30 years. He asked why the City would want to replace the streets every 20 years. The Director of Public Works answered the City was 10 years late in starting the streets on a 20 -year program. The City Manager added some of the streets last longer than 20 years but generally the maintenance becomes very extensive. Councilmember Kalligher asked if the assessments could be stretched out over a 20 -year pay -back. The Director of Public Works answered the Council could make that choice but the numbers would not change much because of the amount = of interest paid. The City Manager offered to provide information on a 20 -year pay -back program. Mayor Paulson asked if it was necessary to vote on the three resolutions tonight and instead hold a public hearing as a staff recommendation. He explained he did not want to go into the public hearing with Councils' minds already made up. He suggested a motion accepting staff's presentation on the Assessment Stabilization program rather than approving the concept or the approach. The City Manager explained staff was asking for direction so they can be specific with the public. He further explained staff needed some specificity to get to that point. He added he understood and appreciated Council's concern, but staff would have to have specific direction before holding the public hearing. 3/22/93 - 15 - RESOLUTION NO. 93 -49 Member Celia Scott introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION AMENDING SPECIAL ASSESSMENT POLICY REGARDING STREET IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member Dave Rosene. The Director of Public Works explained for the record that Council was including the establishment of the Assessment Stabilization program and the proposed maximum frontage assessed to be 70 feet. Councilmember Kalligher stressed to the citizens the Council wanted their input and was not finalizing the street improvement program at this time. The motion passed unanimously. RESOLUTION NO. 93 -50 Member Kristen Mann introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION RECEIVING CITY ENGINEER'S FEASIBILITY REPORT; INITIATING CONSIDERATION OF IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS 1993 -02 (SANITARY SEWER IMPROVEMENTS), 1993 -03 (WATER SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS), 1993 -04 (STORM DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENTS), AND 1993 -05 (STREET IMPROVEMENTS) IN AREA FROM LOGAN AVENUE NORTH TO 4TH STREET NORTH, AND BETWEEN 53RD AVENUE NORTH AND 55TH AVENUE NORTH; PROPOSING A FINANCING PLAN FOR SUCH IMPROVEMENTS AND CALLING A HEARING THEREON The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member Celia Scott, and the motion passed unanimously. The Director of Public Works explained the date recommended for the public hearing was Thursday, April 22, 1993, at Constitution Hall. He noted, based on staff's presentation to the City Council, the proposed improvements would include installation of new street lighting Alternate 2 and a $25,000 allocation for streetscape improvements resulting in an estimated special assessment rate of $25.65 per front foot. He further explained staff was recommending a public information meeting be held at the Brooklyn Center High School Auditorium on Wednesday, April 7, 1993. Councilmember Kalligher asked when the public announcements would be going out. The Director of Public Works answered on March 25, 26, or 29, 1993. He further explained a separate mailing would follow the information meeting with a survey so people will have an 3/22/93 -16 - opportunity to review the materials sent in the mail and to attend the information meeting prior to the public hearing. The Public Works Coordinator provided Council with a draft copy that would be sent out. Councilmember Scott complimented the Public Works Coordinator on a very excellent information package. Mayor Paulson stated he would like the resolution to include the City would be doing a survey. He stated the survey should mention there would be a special assessment and should state in bold type: should the Council approve a project on your street at this time. He added the survey should include do you support or oppose a project on your street that would include a special assessment at this time and allow a space for comments. Mayor Paulson asked the following language be added to the .resolution: BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that staff are hereby directed to mail a survey to potentially assessed residents the morning after the information meeting held on April 7, 1993. The survey expresses the support or opposition to the project and any special assessments. The Director of Public Works suggested the language be changed to read: BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that no later than April 8, 1993, staff are hereby directed to mail a survey to property owners who are proposed to be assessed. The survey form shall provide an opportunity for property owners to express support or opposition to the project and special assessments. RESOLUTION NO. 93 -51 Member Todd Paulson introduced the following resolution as amended and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION DIRECTING CITY STAFF TO CONDUCT A PUBLIC INFORMATIONAL MEETING RELATING TO PROPOSED PUBLIC IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS 1993 -02, 1993 -03, 1993 -04 AND 1993 -05 The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member Celia Scott, and the motion passed unanimously. JOINT PUBLIC SAFETY DISPATCH SERVICES STUDY The City Manager presented the joint public safety dispatch services study and explained the cities of Brooklyn Center, Crystal, Golden Valley, New Hope, and Robbinsdale had joined together to study the possibilities of operating a joint public safety dispatching facility. He further explained three options of joint dispatching had come out of the cooperative effort: 3/22/93 - 17- 1. Change to Hennepin County Sheriff's Department for dispatching services. 2. Build and operate an independent Five -City Joint Dispatch Facility. 3. Remain the same -- make no change. Mayor Paulson suggested Council review this matter after the City Manager and Police Chief had an opportunity to further discuss this with all concerned parties. The Police Chief explained staff was recommending option 1 and was asking Council make a motion indicating its preference for this option and directing staff to continue to work with the five city Joint Dispatch Committee in developing a plan of implementation. He further explained staff would also look at the feasibility of a joint dispatch cooperative effort with another area city if one was interested. He added staff was . not looking for a decision tonight. Mayor Paulson stated it was worthwhile to pursue option 1 and it should be further investigated. He explained there was changing technology which made it worthwhile to look into. He added he expected the Police Chief to be an advocate for change and bring such change to the Council. He recommended a motion to table to next meeting and directing staff to meet with dispatchers and others concerned. The City Manager agreed it was the intent of staff to do this in the next stage of the process. He asked if Council wanted staff to proceed with the investigation and explained this would also include the Fire Department and Public Works Department. Councilmember Scott stated she would like to look into clusters as she had a problem with the County system. The City Manager explained the 800 megahertz would affect Brooklyn Center whether on a joint system with the County or not. He further explained it was technology that was on the horizon. He said staff would evaluate a cluster, but after initial investigation, it looked like the smaller the dispatch center the larger the cost. Councilmember Scott reminded Council when the County took over the jailing facility, the cost went up every year. Councilmember Mann also liked the idea of a clustering group. Councilmember Kalligher agreed it was the wish of the Council to look into: a cluster of cities for dispatching services. There was a motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Councilmember Kalligher indicating preference to build and operate an independent, cluster -type joint dispatch facility and the continuation of working with the Joint Dispatch Committee in developing a plan of implementation. The City Manager asked if Council was excluding the County option. Mayor Paulson stated he would like to look at all options and bring back to the Council. Councilmember Scott agreed it was not a problem to include the County as part of the examination. 3/22/93 - 18 - Councilmember Rosene asked if it would be appropriate in the motion to mention the majority of the Council preferred the cluster rather than the County option. He explained it was good to have open options, but they are not being viewed equally at this point. The motion passed unanimously. ADMINISTRATIVE TRAFFIC COMMITTEE REPORT RE: PURCHASE OF SMART UNIT The City Manager presented the Administrative Traffic Committee Report regarding the purchase of SMART unit. He explained the unit had been recommended for purchase by the City's Administrative Traffic Committee and Council requested staff investigate the possibility of joint purchase of this unit with one or more other jurisdictions. He further explained the committee had reviewed Council's request. He added the Police Chief recommended Brooklyn Center purchase the unit and be responsible for its maintenance but make it available on a rental basis to other jurisdictions. RESOLUTION NO. 93 -52 Member Celia Scott introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION ACCEPTING PROPOSAL FOR SPEED MONITORING AWARENESS TRAILER (SMART) The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member Dave Rosene, and the motion passed unanimously. LEGISLATIVE UPDATE The City Manager presented the legislative update highlighting the correspondence in support of Representative Myron Orfield's Metropolitan Stability Legislation. COUNTY PROPERTY TAX ABATEMENT PETITIONS IMPACT ON 1993 BUDGET The City Manager presented the County property tax abatement petitions impact on 1993 budget. He explained a significant number of appeals were backlogged and had been stipulated and /or tried but refunds had not yet been issued. He further explained there may be additional refunds affecting the last half property tax settlement from Hennepin County. Councilmember Scott stated the Financial Commission was the proper place for this to go at this time. There was a motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Councilmember Rosene to direct staff to develop options for dealing with this shortfall, review them with the Financial Commission, and report back to the City Council. The motion passed unanimously. 3/22/93 - 19 - ADJOURNMENT There was a motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Councilmember Kalligher to adjourn the meeting. The motion passed unanimously. The Brooklyn Center City Council adjourned at 10:50 p.m. J laal� Deputy City Clerk Todd Paulson, Mayor I Recorded and transcribed by: Nancy Berg Timesaver Off Site Secretarial 3/22/93 -20-