HomeMy WebLinkAbout1986 09-22 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
SEPTEMBER 22, 1986
CITY HALL
CALL TO ORDER -
The Brooklyn Center City Council met in regular session and was called to order
by Mayor Dean Nyquist at 7:02 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Mayor Dean Nyquist, Councilmembers Gene Lhotka, Celia Scott, Bill Hawes, and
Rich Theis. Also present were City Manager Gerald Splinter, Director of Public
Works Sy Knapp, Director of Finance Paul Holmlund, Director of Planning &
Inspection Ron Warren, City Attorney Richard Schieffer, Police Chief Jim
Lindsay, Personnel Coordinator Geralyn Barone, and Administrative Aid Patti
Page.
n INVOCATION
The invocation was offered by Councilmember Scott.
OPEN FORUM
Mayor Nyquist noted the Council had received two requests to use the Open Forum
session this evening. He added that he would like to hold these requests until
the proper agenda items.
CONSENT AGENDA
Mayor Nyquist inquired if any Councilmembers requested any items removed from
the Consent Agenda. No requests were made.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES SEPTEMBER 8 1986 - REGULAR SESSION
There was a motion by Councilmember Hawes and seconded by Councilmember Lhotka
to approve the minutes of the September 8, 1986 City Council meeting. The
motion passed unanimously.
FINAL PLAT APPROVAL - BROOKLYN CROSSING SECOND ADDITION
There was a motion by Councilmember Hawes and seconded by Councilmember Lhotka
to approve the final plat for Brooklyn Crossing Second Addition. The motion
passed unanimously.
PERFORMANCE BOND RELEASES
There was a motion by Councilmember Hawes and seconded by Councilmember Lhotka
to release the performance guarantee, in the amount of $25,000, for Summit State
Bank, 6100 Summit Drive (Planning Commission Application No. 78002). The motion
passed unanimously.
There was a motion by Councilmember Hawes and seconded by Councilmember Lhotka
to release the performance guarantee, in the amount of $15,000, for Brooklyn
Crossing Office Building, 3300 County Road 10 (Planning Commission Application
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No. 81017). The motion passed unanimously.
There was a motion by Councilmember Hawes and seconded by Councilmember Lhotka
to release the performance guarantee, in the amount of $20,000, for Brookwood,
North Lilac Drive between Dupont & Humboldt (Planning Commission Application No.
83004). The motion passed unanimously.
PERFORMANCE BOND REDUCTIONS
There was a motion by Councilmember Hawes and seconded by Councilmember Lhotka
to reduce the performance bond from $100,000 to $30,000 for Ramada Hotel, 2200
Freeway Boulevard, Planning Commission Application No. 83045. The motion passed
unanimously.
There was a motion by Councilmember Hawes and seconded by Councilmember Lhotka
to reduce the performance bond to $1O,OOO.for Highway 100 Racquet and Swim Club,
4001 Lakebreeze Avenue North, Planning Commission Application Nos. 83051 and
86003. The motion passed unanimously.
There was a motion by Councilmember Hawes and seconded by Councilmember Lhotka
to reduce the performance bond from $285,000 to $25,000 for Target /Ryan Shopping
Center, 6000 -6100 Shingle Creek Parkway, Planning Commission Application No.
85001. The motion passed unanimously.
RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION NO. 86 -155
Member Bill Hawes introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING SANITARY SEWER RATE FOR THE ELDERLY
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by
member Gene Lhotka, and the motion passed unanimously.
RESOLUTION NO. 86 -156
Member Bill Hawes introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION EXPRESSING RECOGNITION OF AND APPRECIATION FOR THE DEDICATED PUBLIC
SERVICE OF EVELYN MISFELDT
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by
member Gene Lhotka, and the motion passed unanimously.
RESOLUTION NO. 86 -157
Member Bill Hawes introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION EXPRESSING RECOGNITION OF AND APPRECIATION FOR THE DEDICATED PUBLIC
SERVICE OF ROSEMARY KIESELHORST
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by
member Gene Lhotka, and the motion passed unanimously.
LICENSES
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There was a motion by Councilmember Hawes and seconded by Councilmember Lhotka
to approve the following list of licenses:
CIGARETTE LICENSE
C.O.M.B. Company 5425 Xerxes Avenue N.
Theisen Vending Company 3804 Nicollet Avenue S.
Ramada Hotel 2200 Freeway Blvd.
COMMERCIAL KENNEL LICENSE
Brooklyn Pet Hospital 4902 France Avenue N.
Daisy Mae Dog Grooming 6830 Humboldt Avenue N.
Snyder Bros., Inc. Brookdale Center
ITINERANT FOOD ESTABLISHMENT LICENSE
Earle Brown PTA 5900 Humboldt Avenue N.
Korean Presbyterian Church 6830 Quail Avenue N.
Willow Lane Elementary School 7107 Major Avenue North
MECHANICAL SYSTEMS LICENSE
Aer, Inc. Box 1146
B & C Heating, Inc. P.O. Box 385
Royalton Heating & Cooling Co. 4120 85th Avenue N.
NONPERISHABLE VENDING MACHINE LICENSE
Theisen Vending Co. 3804 Nicollet Avenue N.
Ramada Hotel 2200 Freeway Blvd.
RENTAL DWELLING LICENSE
Initial:
Bruce Beroloehr 4207 Lakeside Ave. N. #120
Dr. Akbar Sajady 4207 Lakeside Ave. N. #131
Dr. Akbar Sajady 4207 Lakeside Ave. N. #224
Dr. Akbar Sajady 4207 Lakeside Ave. N. #326
William and Linda Bjerke 3614, 16 50th Ave. N.
Douglas and JoMarie Hentges 5206 63rd Ave. N.
Renewal:
Tower Investments 5100 Drew Avenue N.
Dion Properties, Inc. 5740 Dupont Avenue N.
Roland Scherber 5243 Ewing Avenue N.
Gary D. Anakkala 5412 & 5412 1/2 Fremont Ave. N.
Mahmud & Mahmud 5843 Fremont Avenue N.
Kenneth W. Kunz 5601 Lyndale Avenue N.
Raymond and Grace Harr 6406 Scott Avenue N.
Irwin Ketroser 6525, 27, 29 Willow Lane N.
Milton R. Carlson 610 53rd Avenue N.
Jack & Elizabeth Fahrenholz 620 53rd Avenue N.
John and Patty DeVries 2801 66th Avenue N.
The motion passed unanimously.
RESOLUTIONS (CONTINUED)
The City Manager presented a Resolution Approving Supplemental Agreement No. 1
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to Contract 1985 -K (Reconstruction of Dallas Road between 72nd and 73rd Avenues
North). The Director of Public Works stated there have been several areas of
failure on this 1985 construction project. He noted staff has done an extensive
evaluation of the project, and has determined the cause of failure and the
method of repair. He stated the roadway structure had been underdesigned and
that the drainage had been installed at too shallow of a depth.
Councilmember Scott asked if the repair cost is a guess or an estimate. The
Director of Public Works stated that eight areas of the construction have been
tested and staff feels this is a reasonable estimate for the project.
Councilmember Scott asked how high the project costs could go. The Director of
Public Works stated that in a worst case scenario he could see an additional
$10,000 above the estimate.
Councilmember Hawes asked if the drainage had been installed according to the
specs. He also inquired who the specs had been completed by. The Director of
Public Works stated that the drainage installation had been according to specs
and the City's engineering department had completed the specifications.
Councilmember Theis asked if this type of system had been used in other areas of
the Twin Cities. The Director of Public Works stated that he was sure that it
had been used in other areas but had no documentation on that. Councilmember
Theis stated that in the future he would prefer to have these types of projects
checked out. The Director of Public Works stated that generally a consultant is
hired for these type of projects, but staff did not feel the problem was that
extensive to justify the additional cost. Councilmember Lhotka noted that he
was in agreement with Councilmember Theis' statement.
RESOLUTION NO. 86 -158
Member Gene Lhotka introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION APPROVING SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT NO. 1 TO CONTRACT 1985 -K AND
PROCEDURES FOR CORRECTION OF PROJECT DEFICIENCIES (DALLAS ROAD BETWEEN 72ND AND
73RD AVENUES NORTH
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by
member Rich Theis, and the motion passed unanimously.
The City Manager presented a Resolution Calling Special Election for Submission
of Proposed Amendments to City Charter and Fixing Form of Ballots, November 4,
1986. He noted that this resolution had originally been read at the August 25,
1986 City Council meeting and had been tabled at that time. He referred the
Council to the information prepared for the transition alternatives for
Councilmember and Mayor positions. Mayor Nyquist inquired if action was to be
taken on the transition issue this evening. The City Attorney stated that the
transition could not be dealt with until after the election. Councilmember
Theis stated that at the August 25, 1986 City Council meeting he had raised a
number of questions. He noted that he did not intend to delay this issue and
that he felt it was important to move on the issue and put it on the ballot as
proposed.
Mayor Nyquist recognized Ann Jarvimaki, 5625 Aldrich Avenue North, who stated
she felt the amendment should be placed on the ballot so that the voting public
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and taxpayers could decide the issue. She briefly reviewed the number of voters
who participated in the 1985 election and the cost of the election, and stated
that she did not feel this was the best use of her tax money. Mayor Nyquist
recognized Ron Christenson who stated he has some concerns regarding the ballot,
and the transition because local issues usually become insignificant during
federal and state elections. He stated he felt the Charter Commission should
review their policies and the City Council should approve the Charter
Commission's policies.
Mayor Nyquist recognized Tony Kuefler who stated he was representing the
Citizens for Better Government, and that he supports putting the issue on the
ballot.
Mayor Nyquist recognized Dennis Kueng, Charter Commission Chairman, who stated
the Commission has been discussing this issue for the past two years. He added
that he could not understand why the Council would delay allowing the citizens
to vote on this issue.
Mayor Nyquist recognized Phil Cohen who stated that if public opinion had been
sought from the beginning, questions would not have been raised regarding the
procedure. He added that he felt the public should be aware of the
ramifications of this change.
RESOLUTION NO. 86 -159
Member Celia Scott introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION CALLING SPECIAL ELECTION FOR SUBMISSION OF PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO
CITY CHARTER AND FIXING FORM OF BALLOTS, NOVEMBER 4, 1986
Councilmember Theis asked what motion type of vote was required on this issue.
The City Attorney stated that this resolution would require a simple majority
vote. Councilmember Theis stated that he will vote for the resolution but that
he is not endorsing the change.
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by
member Gene Lhotka and
the motion passed unanimously.
RENEWAL OF PRIVATE KENNEL LICENSE FOR MARY ANN BOYER 5817 PEARSON DRIVE
The City Manager stated that staff is recommending approval of the renewal of
this private kennel license. Councilmember Lhotka inquired why the applicant
had three dogs when the application was originally approved. Mayor Nyquist
recognized Mr. Boyer who stated that he and his wife had the three dogs when
they moved to Brooklyn Center. He noted that the oldest dog is between 12 and
13 years old.
There was a motion by Councilmember Lhotka and seconded by Councilmember Theis
to approve renewal of the private kennel license for Mary Ann Boyer, 5817
Pearson Drive.
Councilmember Hawes asked the applicant why there had been a dog at large
complaint listed in the police department. Mr. Boyer stated that one of the
dogs had got out through the gate when his wife was mowing the yard.
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Upon vote being taken on the foregoing motion, the motion passed unanimously.
ORDINANCES
The City Manager presented An Ordinance Amending Chapter 19 Regarding the
Control of Noxious Weeds. He noted this item was first read on August 25, 1986,
published in the City's official newspaper on September 4, 1986, and is offered
this evening for a second reading. He added that he is recommending the Council
open the public hearing and then recess the public hearing until October 13,
1986 when the other Ordinance Amending Chapter 19 Regarding the Control of
Noxious Weeds Pertaining to Natural Preserves can also have a second reading.
Mayor Nyquist opened the meeting for the purpose of a public hearing on An
Ordinance Amending Chapter 19 Regarding the Control of Noxious Weeds. There was
a motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Councilmember Hawes to recess
the public hearing on An Ordinance Amending Chapter 19 Regarding the Control of
Noxious Weeds until the October 13, 1986 City Council meeting.
The City Manager presented An Ordinance Amending Chapter 11 of the City
Ordinances. He stated this item relates to proposed changes in the liquor
ordinance and was first read on August 25, 1986, published in the City's
official newspaper on September 4, 1986, and is offered this evening for a
second reading. Councilmember Theis inquired if the City could just adopt the
State law by reference as opposed to creating this entire ordinance. The City
Manager stated that it would be difficult to deal with license holders because
State statute is usually much harder to understand. He also added that the City
can exceed the State statute for some requirements.
Mayor Nyquist opened the meeting for the purpose of a public hearing on An
Ordinance Amending Chapter 11 of the City Ordinances, and inquired if there was
anyone present who wished to speak at the public hearing. No one requested to
speak and he entertained a motion to close the public hearing.
There was a motion by Councilmember Lhotka and seconded by Councilmember Theis
to close the public hearing on An Ordinance Amending Chapter 11 of the City
Ordinances. The motion passed unanimously.
ORDINANCE NO. 86 -11
Member Gene Lhotka introduced the following ordinance and moved its adoption:
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 11 OF THE CITY ORDINANCES
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing ordinance was duly seconded by
member Bill Hawes, and the motion passed unanimously.
The City Manager presented An Ordinance Amending Chapter 19 Regarding the
Control of Noxious Weeds Pertaining to Natural Preserves, and noted this
ordinance is offered for a first reading this evening.
There was a motion by Councilmember Theis and seconded by Councilmember Hawes to
approve for first reading An Ordinance Amending Chapter 19 Regarding the Control
of Noxious Weeds Pertaining to Natural Preserves, and to set the public hearing
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date on the ordinance for October 13, 1986 at 7:30 p.m. The motion passed
unanimously.
PLANNING COMMISSION ITEMS
PLANNING COMMISSION APPLICATION NO. 86035 SUBMITTED BY PLAZA INVESTMENTS
REQUESTING SPECIAL USE PERMIT APPROVAL TO OPERATE AN EATING ESTABLISHMENT
OFFERING LIVE ENTERTAINMENT IN THE RAMADA HOTEL AT 2200 FREEWAY BOULEVARD
The City Manager noted this item was recommended for approval by the Planning
Commission at its September 11, 1986 meeting. The Director of Planning &
Inspection referred the Council to pages one and two of the September 11, 1986
Planning Commission meeting minutes, and the informational sheet attached with
those minutes. He briefly reviewed the application and noted that the
entertainment would be on an occasional basis and not a regular feature. He
stated that a public dance license must be obtained and that this was contained
in the one condition recommended by the Planning Commission. The Director of
Planning & Inspection stated that a public hearing is scheduled for this evening
and notices have been posted.
Mayor Nyquist opened the meeting for the purpose of a public hearing on
Application No. 86035 submitted by Plaza Investments requesting special use
permit approval to operate an eating establishment offering live entertainment
in the Ramada Hotel at 2200 Freeway Boulevard. Mayor Nyquist inquired if there
was anyone present in the audience who wished to speak at the ublic hearing.
g.
No one requested to speak and he entertained a motion to close the public
hearing.
There was a motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Councilmember Hawes to
close the public hearing on Planning Commission Application No. 86035 submitted
by Plaza Investments. The motion passed unanimously.
There was a motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Councilmember Hawes to
approve Planning Commission Application No. 86035 submitted by Plaza Investments
requesting special use permit approval to operate an eating establishment
offering live entertainment in the Ramada Hotel at 2200 Freeway Boulevard,
subject to the following condition:
1. The permit is subject to all applicable codes, ordinances and
regulations including the requirement for a public dance license, and _
any violation thereof shall be grounds for revocation.
The motion passed unanimously.
PLANNING COMMISSION APPLICATION NO. 86036 SUBMITTED BY OSSEO SCHOOL DISTRICT
REQUESTING SITE AND BUILDING PLAN AND SPECIAL USE PERMIT APPROVAL TO CONSTRUCT
AN ADDITION FOR A GYMNASIUM AND STORAGE ROOMS TO THE NORTH SIDE OF WILLOW LANE
SCHOOL AT 7020 PERRY AVENUE NORTH
The City Manager noted this item was recommended for approval by the Planning
Commission at its September 11, 1986 meeting. The Director of Planning &
Inspection referred the Council to pages two through four of the September 11,
1986 Planning Commission minutes and the informational sheet attached with those
minutes. He briefly reviewed the application and noted that most discussion
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centered around the site improvements for the landscaping, curb and gutter. He
noted that the applicant has submitted revised landscaping plans, but does not
feel that these revised plans are in compliance with the Planning Commission's
recommendation. He went on to briefly review the eight conditions recommended
by the Planning Commission. He noted that a public hearing has been scheduled
for this evening and notices have been posted.
Councilmember Lhotka asked if there was existing irrigation on the greenstrip
area. The Director of Planning & Inspection stated that irrigation is usually
installed for only commercial and industrial areas. Councilmember Hawes
inquired why, in condition No. 6, the curb and gutter would only have to be
provided around the newly established greenstrip areas. The Director of
Planning & Inspection stated that no modifications were being made to the
parking lot and that by installing curb and gutter around the greenstrips these
areas would be protected.
Mayor Nyquist opened the meeting for the purpose of a public hearing on Planning
Commission Application No. 86036 submitted by Osseo School District requesting
site and building plan and special use permit approval to construct an addition
for a gymnasium and storage rooms to the north side of Willow Lane School at
7020 Perry Avenue North. Mayor Nyquist recognized Jim Rydeen, the architect for
the project, who briefly reviewed the landscaping plan and the potential safety
hazards for smaller children as shrubs mature. He stated that he had
misunderstood the Planning Commission's recommendation and, therefore, had not
added any trees to the revised landscaping plan.
Mayor Nyquist recognized Carole Blowers who stated that even though the
greenstrip and landscaping would look quite attractive, what the school needed
was a larger parking lot, not less parking stalls because of greenstrip and
landscaping requirements.
Mayor Nyquist asked if there was anyone else present at the meeting who wished
to speak at the public hearing. No one requested to speak and he entertained a
motion to close the public hearing.
There was a motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Councilmember Lhotka
to close the public hearing on Planning Commission Application No. 86036
submitted by Osseo School District. The motion passed unanimously.
There was a motion by Councilmember Hawes and seconded by Councilmember Lhotka
to approve Planning Commission Application No. 86036 submitted by Osseo School
District requesting site and building plan and special use permit approval to
construct an addition for a gymnasium and storage rooms to the north side of
Willow Lane school at 7020 Perry Avenue North, subject to the following
conditions:
1. Building plans are subject to review and approval by the Building
Official with respect to applicable codes prior to the issuance of
permits.
2. Grading, drainage, utility and berming plans are subject to review and
approval by the City Engineer, prior to the issuance of permits.
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3. A site performance agreement shall be submitted prior to the issuance
of permits.
4. Any outside trash disposal facilities and rooftop mechanical equipment
shall be appropriately screened from view.
5. Plan approval is exclusive of all signery which is subject to Chapter
34 of the City Ordinances.
6. B612 curb and gutter shall be provided around the newly established
greenstrip adjacent to Perry Avenue North.
7. The standards for a special use permit are deemed to be met by the
virtue of the following:
a) the proposed use enhances the public welfare.
b) screening of the parking lot will improve the relationship of the
school use to adjacent residences.
c) there will be no adverse impact on development of adjacent parcels.
d) the provision of greenstrip, boulevard, sidewalk, and defined
access along Perry Avenue North will better control traffic
movements into and out of the site.
8. The plans shall be modified to replace low -lying shrubs with deciduous
trees in the greenstrip to be established on Perry Avenue and 25' sight
triangles shall be maintained at the new parking lot entrances prior to
the issuance of permits.
The motion passed unanimously.
RESOLUTION
The City Manager presented a Resolution Authorizing the Purchase of Locking Two -
Drawer File Cabinet.
RESOLUTION NO. 86 -160
Member Celia Scott introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF A LOCKING TWO- DRAWER FILE CABINET
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by
member Bill Hawes, and the motion passed unanimously.
RECESS
The Brooklyn Center City Council recessed at 8:17 p.m. and reconvened at 8:36
p.m.
PUBLIC HEARING
Mayor Nyquist reconvened the public hearing on the 1987 annual City Budget.
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The City Council reviewed the Fire Department Budget, Unit No. 32.
Councilmember Hawes asked why there was an increase in duty pay at only one of
the fire stations. The City Manager stated that there are men on duty at only
one of the fire stations. Councilmember Theis inquired what the item titled
Preplan Pay was for. The City Manager stated that the officers who update the
fire department's preplan are paid for this service. Councilmember Theis
inquired if there are features on the new fire pumper which are not necessary to
extend the life of the equipment. The City Manager stated that the $145,000
represents the actual price of the pumper and that this piece of equipment does
not have any of the extra features which add to the appearance of the equipment.
He stated that the fire department uses outside funds and donations for any
extra beautification features.
Next, the Council reviewed the Planning & Inspection Department Budget, Unit No.
33. Councilmember Theis inquired what the office dividers would be used for.
The City Manager stated that these dividers would be placed around the computer
equipment to deaden the sound. Mayor Nyquist asked for more information on the
personnel addition. The City Manager stated that the department head requested
an addition in personnel from a three /quarter time position to the full -time
position. He noted that this request was one of the last items that he cut from
the budget.
The Council reviewed the Emergency Preparedness Department Budget, Unit No. 34.
Councilmember Theis asked why the appropriation in object No. 4382 has decreased
since 1986. The Police Chief stated that repair for the civil defense sirens
had been budgeted for in 1986. Councilmember Lhotka asked why the mobil phone
system for the communications van had been cut. The City Manager stated that
this item will be purchased out of the utility division and will be shared by
both departments.
The City Council went on to review the Animal Control Budget, Unit No. 35.
Councilmember Theis inquired if it was possible to extend the life of the
current vehicle by another year. The City Manager stated that this vehicle is
driven by the code enforcement officers and is on constant patrol. He added
that the engine has already been replaced once in this vehicle. Councilmember
Lhotka inquired when the vehicle had been rebuilt. The City Manager stated that
he believed it was one and a half to two years ago, and that the vehicle had
approximately 50,000 miles on it at that time. Councilmember Lhotka expressed
some concern in buying the same type of vehicle if the City has had to replace
an engine after 50,000 miles. The City Manager stated that staff is looking
into the possibility of purchasing a mini -van. The Police Chief stated that a
mini -van would be more functional than a pickup.
The Council proceeded to the Engineering Division Budget, Unit No. 41.
Councilmember Theis inquired why an appropriation had been budgeted for
unemployment compensation in this division. The Director of Public Works stated
that the engineering department has a seasonal employee who works nine to ten
months and, therefore, qualifies for unemployment compensation. There was a
brief discussion regarding the appropriation for aerial photographs. The
Director of Public Works stated that the City would be buying - prints from
Hennepin County. Councilmember Lhotka inquired as to the increase in the dues
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and subscriptions appropriation. The Director of Public Works stated that the
former City Engineer did not belong to the Minnesota Society of Professional
Engineers, but that the current City Engineer does. He added that it is the
City's policy to pay for these memberships.
The Council then reviewed the Street Maintenance Budget No., Unit No. 42.
Councilmember Theis inquired as to why there was no past history of funding for
account Nos. 4220, 4375, and 4420. The Director of Public Works stated that the
items within these accounts were originally placed under one account, that being
account 4234. He briefly reviewed the actual expenditures from this account and
stated that staff would prefer to use separate accounts for these items.
Councilmember Lhotka asked for more information regarding the four vehicles
being requested. The City Manager stated that the pickup truck being replaced
has approximately 70,000 miles on it and that it would be rotated down to lesser
uses. He added that the Council must decide whether they want to spend more
money to repair an older vehicle or to replace the vehicle with a new one. He
stated that the two dump trucks that are being replaced are at least ten years
old and have undercarriage problems. He noted that the current crew cab vehicle
has approximately 120,000 miles on it, and that it is used for pulling the
patching equipment trailer.
The City Council next reviewed the Vehicle Maintenance Division Budget, Unit No.
43. There were no questions or comments on this unit.
The Council continued on to the Traffic Signals Budget, Unit No. 44.
Councilmember Lhotka inquired who was responsible for the upkeep and service for
traffic P
affic signals. The City Manager stated that the City has a contract with
Hennepin County for time and materials for these items.
There were no questions or comments on the Street Lighting Budget, Unit No. 45.
The Council reviewed the Weed Control Budget, Unit No. 46. Councilmember Lhotka
asked if the administrative costs for weed control were also assessed to the
property owners. The City Manager responded affirmatively.
There were no questions or comments on the Health Regulation and Inspection
Budget, Unit No. 51.
The Council reviewed the Recreation and Parks Administration Budget, Unit No.
61. It was noted that this unit oversees the next four budget areas. The City
Manager stated that the adult recreation programs recover the direct costs from
their user fees. Councilmember Theis inquired if the City Manager had any
information regarding the cost of lighting one softball field for one evening.
The City Manager stated that as he recalls the cost of lighting the softball
fields for one year was approximately $5,000. Councilmember Theis noted that he
expected the bill to be higher.
The Council proceeded to review the Adult Recreation Programs Budget, Unit No.
62. Mayor Nyquist inquired as to the increase in professional services. The
City Manager stated that this increase reflects the increasing cost of paying
officials.
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Mayor Nyquist recognized Anita Hanson, President of the Brooklyn Community Band,
who stated that over half of the membership are residents of Brooklyn Center and
Brooklyn Park. She stated that the members are willing to pay an annual or
biannual fee to belong to the community band, and stated that the band is
requesting the membership fee be considered the budget share for the band.
Mayor Nyquist asked if there was any income from concerts outside of Brooklyn
Center and Brooklyn Park. Ms. Hanson stated that generally the band asks for
donations of $50 to $75 for concerts outside of Brooklyn Center and Brooklyn
Park. She noted that the band plays many concerts at nursing homes and that in
most cases these nursing homes cannot afford the $50 to $75 donation.
Councilmember Lhotka asked what the fee was for the members. Ms Hanson stated
that each person pays $15. Councilmember Lhotka asked what the current
membership was in the band. Ms. Hanson stated that there are currently 45
members in the community band. Councilmember Theis asked what the actual
increase would be. Ms. Hanson stated that the City would be asked to increase
their appropriation by $500. Councilmember Theis asked if the band had explored
the idea of sponsorship by area businesses. Ms. Hanson stated that the band
feels most businesses in the area were being asked quite often for donations
from other organizations, and that these businesses could be selective in who
they supported. Councilmember Hawes stated that he greatly supports the band
and that he feels the City spends money on things which are of less benefit than
the band. Councilmember Theis inquired of Councilmember Hawes if he felt the
$500 increase should be split between the band, the children's chorus, and the
harmonettes or given just to the band. Councilmember Hawes stated that he felt
the $500 increase should go just to the band.
There were no questions or comments on the Teen Recreation Programs Budget, Unit
No. 63.
The Council reviewed the Children's Recreation Programs Budget, Unit No. 64.
The City Manager noted that the band and harmonettes were the only groups asking
for additional funding, and that the children's chorus had not made such a
request.
There were no questions or comments on the General Recreation Programs Budget,
Unit No. 65.
The Council then reviewed the Community Center Budget, Unit No. 66.
Councilmember Theis asked why maintenance projects are budgeted along with the
actual programs. The City Manager stated that this was the way the budget was
originally set up so that the Council could see exactly how expensive the
building was to run. Mayor Nyquist asked if there would be an increase in
revenue for the community center. The City Manager stated that staff is not
expecting an increase in revenue, but that the majority of costs are covered by
the revenue. Mayor Nyquist inquired if it would be possible to charge
nonresidents a higher fee. The Finance Director stated that a higher fee for
nonresidents could be charged, but he felt the community center and its programs
would lose many participants.
Next, the Council reviewed the Parks Maintenance Budget, Unit No. 69.
Councilmember Lhotka inquired regarding the four dumpsters in the budget. The
City Manager stated that the City owns the dumpsters which are in each park, and
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that these four that are being requested would replace dumpsters which are
beyond repair.
The Council proceeded to review the Unallocated Departmental Expenses Budget,
Unit No. 80. There were no questions or comments on this item.
Mayor Nyquist briefly reviewed the areas in which the Council had questions or
concerns in the budget, and asked if there was any further discussion necessary
on these items. Mayor Nyquist added that if there was to be any discussion of
the mediation project he would not be participating because of his close
affiliation with the project. Councilmember Hawes stated that he would also
withdraw from discussion because of his affiliation with the project, but added
that he felt the organization is a real asset to Brooklyn Center and additional
appropriations should be made.
Mayor Pro tem Lhotka requested the City Manager to explain the funding for the
domestic abuse program and the mediation project. The City Manager stated that
$18,750 has been budgeted for the domestic abuse program, but the $10,000
request for the mediation project was cut. Mayor Pro tem Lhotka stated that he
found it difficult to draw the line and set a dollar figure on the amount of
funding the mediation project should receive. He noted that the mediation
project will at some point be self reliant and that most of these other programs
will never be that way. Councilmember Theis stated that he felt the Brooklyn
Center mediation project should be budgeted for. Mayor Pro tem Lhotka asked if
it would be feasible to fund the mediation project at a decreasing amount each
year. Mayor Pro tem Lhotka recognized Barb Jensen who stated the County will
match dollar for dollar up to $7,000 for the mediation project. She noted that
because of the demand, the project will grow to serve other communities and not
just Brooklyn Center. She added that over the years she believes this program
will become a State wide program with funding from the State.
There was a motion by Councilmember Theis and seconded by Councilmember Scott to
increase the appropriation for the Brooklyn Center mediation project from $1,000
to $6,000.
Mayor Pro tem Lhotka stated that he would like to see the decrease in the next
year's budget and a dollar figure included in this motion. Councilmember Theis
stated he felt it would be difficult to place a dollar figure on this
appropriation.
Councilmember Theis stated that he would like to amend his motion to read
"motion to increase allocation to $6,000 with the intent that this allocation
would drop as other communities become active and the Brooklyn Center mediation
project becomes self- sufficient ". Councilmember Scott consented to this amended
motion.
Upon vote being taken on the foregoing motion, the following voted in favor
thereof: Mayor Pro tem Lhotka, Councilmembers Theis and Scott; and the
following voted against the same: none, the motion passed. Mayor Nyquist and
Councilmember Hawes abstained from the vote.
Discussion continued regarding the appropriation request from the senior chorus
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and the community band. Councilmember Theis asked what percentage the City
would be paying if they increased the appropriation. The City Manager stated
that it would be 45% versus the current 33% payment. The City Manager noted
that if the Council were to give every group that asks for additional funding
money the budget would double in two years.
There was a motion by Councilmember Lhotka and seconded by Councilmember Scott
to leave the appropriations at the recommended levels for the senior chorus and
the community band. The motion passed with Councilmember Hawes opposed.
Mayor Nyquist suggested that the Council move on to the concerns and questions
that were stated regarding the Elections and Voters Registration Budget. The
City Manager briefly reviewed the memorandums which were prepared for this item
and noted that the Council could cut $5,400 from the budget if they did not plan
for any expenses for a primary election. Councilmember Theis stated that he
would not be comfortable cutting funds for a mandated program. Mayor Nyquist
noted that he was most concerned with the cost of the new voting equipment. The
City Manager stated that the purchase of the optical scan units in the near
future is very important. He noted that our present machines are reaching
capacity and that once all levels were used on the machine the City would have
to use paper ballots. He added that staff would recommend that the City have
one off year to test and use these machines before the large presidential
election. Councilmember Theis stated that he was in favor of the City
purchasing the optical scan units. Councilmember Hawes inquired if there was
only one manufacturer for the units. The City Manager stated that there are
four or five companies which manufacture these type of units, but this is the
approved company by the County.
There was a motion by Councilmember Lhotka and seconded by Councilmember Theis
to approve the Elections and Voters Registration Budget as submitted. The
motion passed with Councilmember Hawes opposed.
Mayor Nyquist inquired if there were any further questions or comments regarding
the Independent Audit Budget.
There was a motion by Councilmember Theis and seconded by Councilmember Scott to
decrease the appropriation for the Independent Audit Budget to $12,000. The
motion passed unanimously.
Mayor Nyquist stated that he would like to move on to review of the Legal
Counsel Budget and the questions and concerns that were raised earlier.
Councilmember Lhotka stated that he felt the main issue was the cost of the
services. The City Attorney reviewed the information he had prepared on the
billing rates from his office. He went on to explain the experience of the
prosecutors and the length of time they worked for the City. He noted that the
current setup does not appear to be working because there is not enough
experience in the prosecutor's office. He added that he did not feel changing
to another law firm for the prosecuting would change the continuity problem that
the City is experiencing. Mayor Nyquist inquired if the City Attorney's office
uses paralegal and law clerks to their fullest extent. The City Attorney stated
that his office has three people which are not certified lawyers and there is no
separate charge for the time spent by these people. He added that he does not
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have any figures on the use of law clerks. Councilmember Theis noted that he
felt that the City would be spending the same amount of money whether they had
one law firm or two law firms. The City Attorney added that he had requested
additional funds because of the two additional police officers being added.
The Director of Finance stated that in the Police Department Budget a
typographical error had been found in the dues and subscriptions area, and that
this budget should be increased by $1,000. There was a motion by Councilmember
Theis and seconded by Councilmember Lhotka to increase the Police Department
Budget, Unit No. 31, Object No. 4413 by $1,000. The motion passed unanimously.
There was a motion by Councilmember Theis and seconded by Councilmember Lhotka
to decrease the Unallocated Departmental Budget by $3,000 to reflect the change
in the Independent Audit Budget. The motion passed unanimously.
RESOLUTION NO. 86 -161
Member Rich Theis introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION TO ADOPT THE 1987 BUDGET
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by
member Celia Scott, and the motion passed unanimously.
RESOLUTION NO. 86 -162
Member Gene Lhotka introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION TO AUTHORIZE A TAX LEVY FOR 1987 BUDGET APPROPRIATIONS
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by
member Rich Theis, and the motion passed unanimously.
The Brooklyn Center City Council recessed at 11:15 p.m. and reconvened at 11:17
p.m.
RESOLUTION N0. 86 -163
Member Celia Scott introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION APPROVING A ONE -THIRD MILL LEVY FOR THE PURPOSE OF DEFRAYING THE COST
OF OPERATION, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF MSA 462.411 THROUGH 462.711, OF THE
HOUSING AND REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF BROOKLYN CENTER FOR THE YEAR
1987
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by
member Bill Hawes, and the motion passed unanimously.
ADJOURNMENT
There was a motion by Councilmember Hawes and seconded by Councilmember Theis to
adjourn the meeting. The motion passed unanimously. The Brooklyn Center City
Council adjourned at 11:21 p.m.
— d C -
City Clerk Mayor
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