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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1990 02-12 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 FEBRUARY 12, 1990 CITY HALL CALL TO ORDER The Brooklyn Center City Council met in regular session and was called to order by Mayor Dean Nyquist at 7:01 p.m. I ROLL CALL Mayor Dean Nyquist, Councilmembers Celia Scott, Todd Paulson, Jerry Pedlar, and Philip Cohen. Also present were City Manager Gerald Splinter, Director of Public Works Sy Knapp, Finance Director Paul Holmlund, Director of Planning and Inspection Ron Warren, City Attorney Charlie LeFevere, Personnel Coordinator Geralyn Barone, and Administrative Aide Patti Page. INVOCATION The invocation was offered by Ms. Elaine Bernards of the Brooklyn Center Prayer Breakfast Committee. OPEN FORUM Mayor Nyquist noted the Council had not received any requests to use the open forum session this evening. He inquired if there was anyone present who wished to address the Council. There being none, he continued with the regular agenda items. CONSENT AGENDA Mayor Nyquist inquired if any Councilmembers requested any items removed from the consent agenda. No requests were made. RESOLUTIONS RESOLUTION NO 90 -26 Member Celia Scott introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION ACCEPTING WORK PERFORMED UNDER CONTRACT 1989 -H (SHINGLE CREEK PARKWAY GEOMETRIC IMPROVEMENTS 1989 -18) AND (BROOKDALE SQUARE ENTRANCE 1989 -19) The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member Jerry Pedlar, and the motion passed unanimously. RESOLUTION N0. 90 -27 Member Celia Scott introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR AND CITY MANAGER TO ENTER INTO AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF BROOKLYN CENTER AND NORTH HENNEPIN MEDIATION PROJECT i The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member Jerry Pedlar, and the motion passed unanimously. 2/12/90 s RESOLUTION NO. 90 -28 Member Celia Scott introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION ACKNOWLEDGING GIFT FROM THE BROOKLYN CENTER LIONS CLUB The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member Jerry Pedlar, and the motion passed unanimously. LICENSES There was a motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Councilmember Pedlar to approve the following list of licenses: BULK VENDOR Brooklyn Center Lions P.O. Box 29092 Curtis Products, Inc. 2516 Dodds Ave. CATERING FOOD VEHICLE Bridgeman's 6201 Brooklyn Blvd. ITINERANT FOOD ESTABLISHMENT Brooklyn Center Lions /Band Boosters 6500 Humboldt Ave. N. MECHANICAL SYSTEMS Hopkins Plumbing & Heating 30 North 8th Ave. NONPERISHABLE VENDING MACHINES Earle Brown Bowl 6440 James Circle Lynbrook Bowl 6357 N. Lilac Drive Minnesota Vikings Food Service 5200 West 74th Street Hennepin Co. Service Center 6125 Shingle Ck. Pkwy Hiway 100 N. France Health Club 4001 Lakebreeze Ave. N. Schmitt Music 2600 Freeway Blvd. Silent Knight ht Secur g ity Systems 1700 Freeway Blvd. State Farm Insurance 5930 Shingle Ck. Pkwy. Service America Corporation 7490 Central Ave. NE Dayton's 1100 Brookdale Center Graco 6820 Shingle Ck. Pkwy. MTC 6845 Shingle Ck. Pkwy. Theisen Vending Company 3804 Nicollet Ave. S. Brookdale Ford 2550 Co. Rd. 10 Budgetel Inn 6415 James Circle Econo Lodge 6445 James Circle Holiday Inn 2200 Freeway Blvd. Bill West's Service Center 2000 57th Ave. N. PERISHABLE VENDING MACHINES Jimmy Jingle 1304 East Lake Street Brookdale Corporate Center 6300 Shingle Ck. Pkwy. Builders Square 3600 63rd Ave. N. Fingerhut Telemarketing 6860 Shingle Ck. Pkwy. Palmer Lake Plaza 6860 Shingle Ck. Pkwy. 2/12/90 -2- i I TCR Corporation 1600 67th Ave. N. Minnesota Vikings Food Service, Inc. 5200 West 74th Street Hiway 100 N. France Health Club 4001 Lakebreeze Ave. N. Schmitt Music 2600 Freeway Blvd. State Farm Insurance 5930 Shingle Ck. Pkwy. Service America Corporation 7490 Central Ave. NE Dayton's 1100 Brookdale Center Graco 6820 Shingle Ck. Pkwy. MTC 6845 Shingle Ck. Pkwy. READILY PERISHABLE FOOD VEHICLE Bridgeman's 6201 Brooklyn Blvd. SPECIAL FOOD HANDLING ESTABLISHMENT Adventures in Video 6914 Brooklyn Blvd. M & S Drug Emporium 5900 Shingle Ck. Pkwy. Fun Services 3615 50th Ave. N. Gift Shop, Too (Days Inn) 1501 Freeway Blvd. Maid of Scandinavia Company 5717 Xerxes Ave. N. Snyder Brothers Drug Store 1296 Brookdale Center TAXICAB Town Taxi 2812 University Ave. SE Travel Express Taxi 4109 42nd Ave. N. Yellow Taxi Service Corp. 3555 5th Ave. S. The motion passed unanimously. MAYORAL APPOINTMENT Mayor Nyquist noted the Council had received an application for an appointment to the Northwest Hennepin Human Services Advisory Commission. He stated he would like to contact the applicant before making the appointment, and thus far, had not been able to reach the applicant. He recommended laying the item over until the February 26, 1990, City Council meeting. RESOLUTIONS (CONTINUED) The City Manager presented a Resolution Establishing Improvement Project No. 1990 -05, Improvement of Lift Station No. 2 and Approving Proposal for Preliminary Evaluation of Options. He noted this sewer lift station is located f on Lyndale Avenue at 55th Avenue North. He stated the proposed study would review the feasibility of upgrading the existing station to provide odor control, meet OSHA standards, and improve operating features. He stated the proposed study would also evaluate the option of constructing a new lift station. Mayor Nyquist stated it sounded like a lot of money to pay for a study. The Director of Public Works stated it will take a considerable amount of time and study to prepare this report. He noted this company has completed this type of study for a number of cities and the Metropolitan Waste Commission. Councilmember Paulson inquired if staff has any type of breakdown bn how much work any one firm does for the City. The City Manager stated it would be possible for staff to prepare this type of breakdown for Councilmember Paulson. Councilmember Scott stated at the time Lyndale Avenue was improved, the 2/12/90 -3- neighborhood complained of the odor from the lift station. She noted she lives in this area and understands why the residents complained. She stated she is glad to see this study taking place. Councilmember Pedlar stated he has visited two other lift stations on a tour of the City and inquired if they have the same situation. The Director of Public Works stated the other two lift stations do not have this problem. He noted this particular lift station is much larger and contains more equipment. He noted the cost of retro- fitting the old lift station would be much lower than the cost of building a new one; however, the old building is 30 years old. Councilmember Pedlar inquired if it is necessary to pay someone else to tell the City what we already know. The City Manager noted he asked the same question. He then went on to discuss the areas which need to be studied. He noted the firm will also address the issue of whether the problem can be solved with the existing facility and the cost of fixing it. Councilmember Cohen stated even if City staff had the expertise to do this study, it would take a considerable amount of time, and he wouldn't want to see any other duties suffer because of staff working on this one project. Councilmember Paulson stated he would like to see a report detailing how engineering costs are distributed among engineering firms. The Director of Public Works stated at this point the project is in the preliminary and research stage, and fees are based on an hourly rate. He noted once this report is complete and the Council makes a decision, then proposals would be taken from interested firms. He noted he feels it is very important to have a consulting engineering firm which City staff is familiar with and knows how to deal with. RESOLUTION NO 90 -29 Member Celia Scott introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 1990 -05, IMPROVEMENT OF LIFT STATION NO. 2 AND APPROVING PROPOSAL FOR PRELIMINARY EVALUATION OF OPTIONS The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member Philip Cohen, and the motion passed unanimously. The City Manager presented a Resolution Amending the 1990 General Fund Budget to Appropriate Funds for Replacement of Police Resuscitator. RESOLUTION NO 90 -30 Member Philip Cohen introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION AMENDING THE 1990 GENERAL FUND BUDGET TO APPROPRIATE FUNDS FOR REPLACEMENT OF POLICE RESUSCITATOR The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member Todd Paulson, and the motion passed unanimously. APPROVAL OF 1990 -1991 LOCAL 49 LABOR AGREEMENT The City Manager stated he received a phone call on Friday informing him that the Local 49 contract had been approved. He noted this agreement represents a settlement which is consistent with negotiations in the metropolitan area and internal negotiations with other bargaining units in the City. He added it is also consistent with the Council's action on nonorganized salaries in 1990. 2/12/90 -4- There was a motion by Councilmember Pedlar and seconded by Councilmember Scott authorizing the Mayor and City Manager to sign the proposed 1990 -1991 Local 49 Labor Agreement. The motion passed unanimously. ORDINANCES The City Manager presented An Ordinance Amending Chapter 27 -104 of the City Ordinances Authorizing the Removal or Destruction of Advertisements, Buildings or Structures on the Public Highways, Streets or Alleys. He noted this amendment would allow the City Manager or his designee to remove any items placed in the City's rights -of -way which are in violation of the existing ordinance. He noted this item is offered this evening for a first reading. The City Manager stated at this time prosecutors have difficulty working with the existing ordinance because of the interpretation of the ordinance. He explained the Administrative Traffic Committee requested the City Attorney to prepare an ordinance amendment which would allow the City Manager to remove structures which are in violation of the State Statutes. He noted if the amendment is adopted, it is staff's intent to use this authority only when there is a serious problem which requires immediate action. Councilmember Cohen stated he felt it might be helpful if an inventory was taken of the various types of obstacles in the City's rights -of -way. The City Manager stated a very detailed survey has already been completed of the site corners, and the Council will be receiving it soon. Councilmember Pedlar stated he has mixed emotions with regard to this amendment. He noted he would like to see the wording much clearer as it pertains to safety hazards. The City Manager explained one of the problems is that residents are placing rocks and other structures near curbs and creating a safety hazard for the snow plows. The Director of Public Works stated the recommendation is based on an attempt to deal with fairly severe safety concerns. He then went on to review the present process for ordering removal of hazardous objects. He noted staff would like to be able to address these issues without going through a lengthy court process. Councilmember Cohen stated he would like to have the City Attorney comment on the City's liability, if they did not rectify the problem. The City Attorney stated under State law the Commissioner of Transportation has the right to remove items along State roadways. He noted under Brooklyn Center ordinances, it is unlawful to place anything in the right -of -way. He stated if the City knew of a hazardous object and did not take steps to abate the hazard, the City would be placed in a position of being sued if someone were injured because of this hazardous object. Councilmember Cohen inquired what the administrative process would be for notifying residents. The City Manager stated staff would notify the resident of a violation and request removal of the object. He stated a reasonable period of time would be allowed for removal of the object and then a tag would be issued. He noted occasionally residents will pay the fine and still not remove the object. He noted this would give the City authority to remove the object. Councilmember Pedlar stated he would like to see additional terminology added to the ordinance regarding safety hazards. The City Attorney explained the wording is virtually identical to the State Statute at this time. Councilmember Cohen requested pictures or a map of the area so the Council has an idea of what will be accomplished. 2/12/90 -5- There was a motion by Councilmember Cohen and seconded by Councilmember Paulson to approve for first reading An Ordinance Amending Chapter 27 -104 of the City Ordinances Authorizing the Removal or Destruction of Advertisements, Buildings, or Structures on the Public Highways, Streets, or Alleys and setting a public hearing date of March 12, 1990, at 7:30 P.M. The motion passed unanimously. The City Manager presented An Ordinance Amending Chapter 19 of the City Ordinances Relating to Trespass. He noted this ordinance is based on the Minneapolis ordinance and would allow the property owner or manager of retail property to restrict the perpetrator of a crime from returning to their place of business for a period of up to one year. He noted the ordinance could be used at Humboldt Square, Brookdale, or any retail or office area. He added there is a slight typo in paragraph b of the ordinance noting the word retail should be inserted instead of retain. The City Attorney explained while the ordinance amendment is based on a Minneapolis ordinance some changes have been made to allow the Police Department to expand the areas where this ordinance will apply. He noted they also added the form of notice which the Minneapolis ordinance did not have. The City Manager stated staff could provide a copy of the Minneapolis ordinance at the second reading. Councilmember Paulson inquired if subdivision 2a is a written or verbal order. The City Attorney explained this is a verbal, short -term order. Councilmember Scott stated the Minneapolis ordinance has proven very effective to both owners and the Police Department. There was a motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Councilmember Pedlar to approve for first reading An Ordinance Amending Chapter 19 of the City Ordinances Relating to Trespass and setting a public hearing for March 12, 1990, at 7:30 p.m. The motion passed unanimously. DISCUSSION ITEMS AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 19 OF THE CITY ORDINANCES DECLARING CERTAIN ACTIVITIES AS A PUBLIC NUISANCE RELATING TO THE PARKING AND STORAGE OF VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT IN RESIDENTIAL AREAS The City Manager stated the draft ordinance proposes restrictions on the parking and storage of vehicles and equipment in residential areas within the City. Councilmember Cohen stated he would think that if the City is trying to improve residential aesthetics, they made a step forward when prohibiting commercial vehicles in residential areas. He noted, however, storage of other vehicles or RVs on grass areas is a very emotional issue. He stated if the ordinance is designed to restrict the amount of junk being stored in the yard that is great, but he does not feel the City should try to ban RVs. He noted people have rights to storage but they should also consider their neighbors feelings and City aesthetics. The City Manager stated staff has prepared a slide presentation which should be reviewed and then decisions can be discussed. The Director of Public Works stated the ordinance would affect storage of most vehicles in front yard setbacks that abut public streets. He noted an article was published in the City Manager's Newsletter, and he did receive a number of calls from the public with concerns regarding this amendment. He stated he also received calls from property owners of corner lots who felt they would be more affected because they have two sides which actually face a street and do not 2/12/90 -6- really have a true rear yard. He noted this statement is true and the issue should be reviewed. He then went on to review a transparency of yard setbacks followed by the slide presentation. The Director of Planning and Inspection stated the proposed ordinance amendment would prohibit storage of vehicles on vacant ro ert . He added the Cou ncil may p P Y Y wish to consider some type of screening for side yard storage. A discussion then ensued regarding adjusting the fencing ordinance. II` There was a motion by Councilmember Pedlar and seconded by Councilmember Scott directing staff to prepare an ordinance amendment regarding fencing for side yard storage for a first reading at the February 26, 1990, City Council meeting. The motion passed unanimously. i Mayor Nyquist recognized Mr. John Mandrich, 2818 64th Avenue North, who stated he feels his property value has been decreased because of the types of items his neighbor to the rear of his lot stores in his back yard. The City Manager stated staff would review this concern with regard to the present ordinance and will notify Mr. Mandrich. There was a motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Councilmember Pedlar to prepare An Ordinance Amending Chapter 19 of the City Ordinances Declaring Certain Activities as a Public Nuisance Relating to the Parking and Storage of Vehicles and Equipment in Residential Areas for a first reading to be held on February 26, 1990. The motion passed unanimously. RECESS The Brooklyn Center City Council recessed at 9:05 p.m. and reconvened at 9:20 p.m. REPORT ON YARD WASTE DISPOSAL PROBLEM AND OTHER RECYCLING EFFORTS The City Manager explained currently the HRG is working with BFI, the City's recycling contractor, Hennepin County and the Plastic Institute in developing a pilot plastic recycling project. He noted the purpose of this pilot project is to evaluate the feasibility and determine the actual costs and benefits of plastic recycling. He noted there would be a minimal cost to the HRG. Councilmember Scott inquired what type of response the current recycling program has received. The City Manager stated currently there is 53% to 55% participation. He noted it could be as high as 75% because people do not put out their green recycling container every week. He noted the pilot plastic recycling project would implement a bar code system which will allow the HRG to get a better count for participation. He noted if the City wants to increase its participation and recycling, other areas will have to be included such as recycling in apartments and retail areas. The City Manager stated the yard waste issue is becoming a difficult problem to deal with. He noted Hennepin County has not helped any by passing punitive resolutions. He stated other counties are able to operate compost sites without the problems which Hennepin County experienced. Councilmember Cohen inquired what is being done to educate the public on composting at their homes. The City Manager stated at this point, the HRG feels the process has to be neutral in 1990 to help the problem while educating the public. He noted there is also a 2/12/90 -7- credibility problem with convincing the residents to not bag their grass clippings. He noted the people telling residents the benefits of not bagging their grass clippings are also the same people who told residents that there yards would go dormant during the drought. STATUS OF 1990 BROOKLYN CENTER PRIORITIES The City Manager briefly reviewed the 1990 Brooklyn Center priorities listing. He stated if the Council agrees with this listing he would send it out to the Advisory Commissions for updating before the annual planning process. Mayor Nyquist stated he had some concerns regarding public facilities housing social services. The City Manager stated there was some concern that some of the organizations would not get used as widely if they were housed in a public building. The Mayor recommended creating a task force to look into this issue separately. There is a general consensus among Councilmembers to create a task force for reviewing the facilities for social service organizations. PROPOSED COST OF CHANGING POLICE HANDGUNS AND THE STUDY COMMITTEE'S RECOMMENDATIONS The City Manager noted the Gun Selection Committee has completed its assignment and has. recommended its number one choice for a weapon. He explained if the Council concurs with its recommendation, it could pass the resolution approving specifications and authorizing advertisement for bids for delivery of 45 semi- automatic weapons. He then went on to review the recommendation for disposal of the current handguns. He added the resolution approving the specifications should be passed subject to the City Attorney's review of the specifications. There was a motion by Councilmember Cohen and seconded by Councilmember Pedlar accepting the recommendation of the Gun Selection Committee to purchase a nine millimeter caliber semi - automatic Smith and Wesson, model 6926. The motion passed unanimously. RESOLUTION NO 90 -31 Member Todd Paulson introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION APPROVING SPECIFICATIONS AND AUTHORIZING ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS FOR DELIVERY OF 45 SEMI - AUTOMATIC WEAPONS The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member Philip Cohen, and the motion passed unanimously. Councilmember Scott inquired if the Gun Selection Committee was aware of the problems the Minneapolis Police Department is having with the ammunition clips. The City Manager stated he believed the committee was aware of the problems, but he would check with them. There was a motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Councilmember Pedlar to accept the recommendation for disposal of the current handguns. The motion passed unanimously. ADJOURNMENT There was a motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Councilmember Paulson to adjourn the meeting. The motion passed unanimously. The Brooklyn Center 2/12/90 -8- City Council adjourned at 10 p.m. e� City Clerk Mayor i 2/12/90 -9- first reading. There was a motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Councilmember Paulson to approve for first reading An Ordinance Amending Chapter 35 of the City Ordinances Regarding in the Height of Fences, ences Hed es g g g or Walls and setting a public hearing date of April 9 1990 g at P 7:30 .m. The motion a p passed unanimously. RESOLUTIONS (CONTINUED) The City Manager presented a Resolution Amending the 1990 Pay Plan. He noted this would approve the addition of the EDA Assistant Coordinator. He explained the EDA budget was approved after the pay plan, and this resolution would recognize the action of the Council. Councilmember Paulson stated he feels there is a need for this position; however, he is not convinced of the salary that is being suggested. The Personnel Coordinator stated the position was placed at this grade level because of where it fell with comparable positions within the City, those being the City Clerk and Appraiser. RESOLUTION NO. 90 -42 Member Celia Scott introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION AMENDING 1990 PAY PLAN The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member Philip Cohen, and the motion passed unanimously. The City Manager presented a Resolution Authorizing a Change in Accounting Practice to Record the Full Liability in the General Fund for Vacation and Sick Leave of City Employees. The Finance Director stated this is a one -time adjustment, and it will not actually ost the City thin Y Y anything. RESOLUTION NO. 90 -43 Member Jerry Pedlar introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A CHANGE IN ACCOUNTING PRACTICE TO RECORD THE FULL LIABILITY IN THE GENERAL FUND FOR VACATION AND SICK LEAVE OF CITY EMPLOYEES The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member Celia Scott, and the motion passed unanimously. PUBLIC HEARING - TAX INCREMENT DISTRICT The City Manager stated it is recommended the public hearing regarding the Tax Increment District scheduled for this evening be tabled to the March 12, 1990, City Council meeting. There was a motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Councilmember Paulson to table the public hearing on the Tax Increment District to March 12, 1990. The motion passed unanimously. MAYORAL APPOINTMENT There was a motion by Councilmember Pedlar and seconded by Councilmember Paulson to appoint John Vogel to the Northwest Hennepin Human Services Council Advisory Commission. The motion passed unanimously. 2/26/90 -il- RESOLUTIONS (CONTINUED) The City Manager presented a Resolution Requesting Authority to Issue an On -sale Liquor License from the State of Minnesota for the Earle Brown Heritage Convention Center. RESOLUTION NO. 90 -44 Member Celia Scott introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION REQUESTING AUTHORITY TO ISSUE AN ON -SALE LIQUOR LICENSE FROM THE STATE OF MINNESOTA FOR THE EARLE BROWN HERITAGE CONVENTION CENTER The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member Todd Paulson, and the motion passed unanimously. DISCUSSION ITEMS - RECOMMENDATION FROM HUMAN RIGHTS AND RESOURCES COMMISSION TO CONTRIBUTE FUNDING TO PEACEMAKER CENTER The City Manager noted in December 1989, the City received a request from Brooklyn Peacemaker Center, Inc. for a $5,000 contribution. He noted since the 1990 budget had already been established, the request was forwarded to the Human Rights and Resources Commission for its review. He stated at its February 14, 1990, meeting, the Commission reviewed the request and recommended to the City Council it contribute $5,000 to Brooklyn Peacemaker Center, Inc., if the funds are available. The Personnel Coordinator stated if the Council did approve the recommendation, a contract would be written between the Brooklyn Peacemaker Center, Inc. and the City of Brooklyn Center. I There was a motion by Councilmember Cohen and seconded by Councilmember Scott approving the recommendation of the Human Rights and Resources Commission to contribute $5,000 to Brooklyn Peacemaker Center, Inc. and instructing staff to prepare an agreement between the two parties. The motion passed. Mayor Nyquist and Councilmember Pedlar abstained. j LOCAL 49 CONTRACT AMENDMENT The City Manager noted this amended Labor Agreement will make the contract consistent with Chapter 17 of the City ordinances regarding personnel and also correct a few typos within the body of the contract. There was a motion by Councilmember Pedlar and seconded by Councilmember Paulson f to amend the 1990 -91 Local 49 Agreement regarding use of sick leave for i probationary employees. The motion passed unanimously. f STREET LIGHTING POLICY The Director of Public Works stated in the 1990 budget $140,000 is budgeted to pay electrical costs, while $3,000 is budgeted for maintenance of street lights. He then went on to review the current street lighting policy and noted it is directed primarily towards traffic safet y. He noted another direction could be property security. He noted staff has contacted other metro area cities regarding its street lighting policies. He noted while some have a policy similar to Brooklyn Center's, others have established or are contemplating systematic installation programs. He stated the City of Maple Grove charges its 2/26/90 -12- residents, on its utility bills, a $5.40 per quarter street lighting fee. He stated the City of Robbinsdale is considering such a fee. Councilmember Cohen noted he originally made the inquiry regarding street lighting. He noted a resident had called him who had installed a security light in his alley. He noted the resident is now retired and inquired if the City would pay the cost of this security light. Councilmember Cohen inquired if security lighting is something the City wants to get involved with. The City Manager stated he has not received any comments or complaints recently regarding street lighting. Councilmember Pedlar inquired if Councilmember Cohen wished to bring this issue to the community. Councilmember Cohen stated in some respect he would like to get the residents' views on this issue. He stated he thought the crime watch programs may be a good way to reach the public. The City Manager stated a survey could be done of the crime watch programs. Mayor Nyquist pointed out if the City has not received any complaints recently, he was not sure we should stir the issue up. The City Manager stated he could ask the Police Department to review security lighting options which are available. Councilmember Paulson inquired regarding the lighting on the Xerxes Avenue bridge. The Director of Public Works stated at the time of Councilmember Paulson's inquiry, MNDOT had not yet installed the lights on I -694. He noted lighting has been installed on I -694, and there is lighting on the bridge deck which comes from the I -694 lights. He noted staff would recommend installation of more lights at the time of the trail completion across the bridge. DEFERMENT OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS FOR PERSONS 65 YEARS OF AGE AND FOR PERSONS WHO ARE TOTALLY AND PERMANENTLY DISABLED The City Manager stated following the public hearings regarding alley paving projects, the Council requested the existing policy regarding deferment of special assessments be reviewed prior to the completion of special assessment hearings. The Director of Public Works went on to review Minnesota Statutes 435.193 through 435.195 which allows cities to defer special assessments under certain conditions and the cities existing policy. The City Manager pointed out there are very few cases within the alley paving projects which would qualify for the deferment. Councilmember Pedlar pointed out the Council indicated staff would research the deferment policy for young families just starting out. He stated he feels something should be done about a deferment for them. Mayor Nyquist pointed out the City cannot set a policy for anyone other than those that are specified within the State Statutes. ALTERNATE FUNDING SOURCES FOR PUBLIC WORKS PROGRAMS AND PROJECTS The City Manager stated a report has been prepared by the Public Works Coordinator which identifies a number of alternative funding options for public works projects and programs which warrant consideration and discussion. The Director of Public Works went on to review options one A, one B, and one C. He referred the Mayor and City Councilmembers to the report prepared by the Public Works Coordinator. He went on to explain the three options for funding of new storm sewers and the maintenance of these. The Finance D' erector P ointed out one of the real problems is the levy limitations. Councilmember Cohen agreed with the Finance Director and noted the State and Federal governments are also trying to find alternative funding sources. He noted levy limits on the general fund would mean everyone pays for something whether they benefit or not. The 2/26/90 -13- Director of Public Works pointed out there is a need to treat storm sewer runoff, and the question is not how but when. The Director of Public Works went on to review option one D, one E, and one F. The Council had no questions regarding these options. He then reviewed option one G and stated he would like to get the 69th Avenue improvement project well under control and then start taking more money for maintenance costs. He recommended reviewing the general funding options for the Council when the need arises. POTENTIAL APPOINTMENTS TO MNDOT- HIGHWAY 100 CITIZENS COMMITTEE The City Manager noted MNDOT has requested Brooklyn Center appoint two members to represent Brooklyn Center on the Citizens Advisory Committee for the upgrading of T.H. 100. A discussion then ensued regarding potential citizens for this appointment. Councilmember Pedlar stated Dick Digatano and Dale Greenwald both live in this area. He noted Mr. Greenwald also has a business. There was a general consensus among commission members that the Mayor would appoint two representatives to the Citizens Advisory Committee. LEGISLATIVE UPDATE The City Manager briefly reviewed the newest house bill which basically repeals the Tax Increment Financing. Councilmember Cohen went on to review the other bills in the House and Senate regarding Tax Increment Financing and recommended the Council pass a resolution opposing House File 1760 and Senate File 2209. ADEQUATE FUND BALANCE FORMULA CHANGE The City Manager noted that a formula was adopted in 1980 which reserved 25% of the total general fund for working capital. He explained collection of both property taxes on local government aid have been pushed back even further, and nothing is received from those sources until after July 1 of each year. It is recommended the formula be c ' hanged to increase the amount to 40%. There was a motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Councilmember Cohen approving the adequate general fund balance policy formula as set forth in M &C No. 80 -31 and amended on February 26, 1990. ADJOURNMENT There was a motion by Councilmember Pedlar and seconded by Councilmember Paulson to adjourn the meeting. The motion passed unanimously. The Brooklyn Center City Council adjourned at 11:15 p.m. I City Clerk May 2/26/90 -14-