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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021 01-11 CCM Regular SessionMINUTES 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 JANUARY 11, 2021 1. INFORMAL OPEN FORUM WITH CITY COUNCIL The Brooklyn Center City Council met in Informal Open Forum called to order by Mayor Mike Elliott at 6:50 p.m. The meeting was conducted via Zoom. ROLL C:ALT. Mayor Mike Elliott and Councilmembers Marquita Butler, April Graves, Kris Lawrence - Anderson, and Dan Ryan. Also present were City Manager Curt Boganey, Deputy City Manager Reggie Edwards, Finance Director Mark Ebensteiner, Community Development Director Meg Beekman, Fire Chief Todd Berg, City Clerk Barb Suciu, and City Attorney Troy Gilchrist. Mayor Mike Elliott opened the meeting for the purpose of Informal Open Forum. Melissa Carey, resident, stated she does not appreciate the disingenuous apology as that is not the situation that occurred, and Councilmember Ryan is gaslighting. She added he specifically said that Alfieda Daniel's comments were not germane to the conversation and continued to interrupt her while she was speaking. She noted he did not like the way the meeting was being run, and he hung up the phone. Ms. Carey stated she knows he hung up the phone because she called his house and he told her he had a problem with how the meeting was being run. She added we all saw and heard what happened and she does not appreciate the narrative being switched around. She noted he interrupted her purposefully and those words need to be said. An interpreter stated he was told to join the meeting at 7:00 p.m. City Clerk Barb Suciu stated this is related to the Economic Development Authority (EDA) meeting after tonight's Regular Session meeting. Mayor Elliott asked the interpreter to remain on the meeting until the EDA portion of the meeting. Councilmember Graves asked whether Assistant City Manager Dr. Reggie Edwards can give any insight about technical difficulties that occurred during the January 4, 2021 Work Session, as he was Acting City Manager at the time. Dr. Reggie Edwards stated, during the Work Session, Mayor Elliott opened up the discussion to members of the public. There were difficulties with technology, and Councilmember Ryan was 01/11/21 -1- joining the meeting from his cell phone through Dr. Edwards' phone which he had on speaker and propped next to his computer. Dr. Edwards added he could not see Councilmember Ryan. Dr. Edwards stated, if Councilmember Ryan wanted to speak or be acknowledged, or interact with the City Council, he had no means of doing that except through Dr. Edwards' phone. When the conversation happened during which Councilmember Ryan wanted to raise a point, he stated, "Mr. Mayor, Mr. Mayor," and then proceeded with his point of order. Due to technology problems, there was no other way for him to flag or signal to Mayor Elliott or anyone else on the City Council that he wished to speak. Dr. Edwards stated he told Councilmember Ryan he had the floor, and Councilmember Ryan began to speak via Dr. Edwards' phone. Dr. Edwards stated while Councilmember Ryan was speaking, Mayor Elliott called him out twice, and there was a pause, and then a male audience member made a comment directed at Councilmember Ryan about interrupting the spealcer. Dr. Edwards added he does not know whether Councilmember Ryan even knew who was speaking, and Councilmember Ryan made a statement that the Mayor should run the meeting however he wants. Dr. Edwards stated Councilmember Ryan did not have the technological capability of interacting with the City Council. He added he could not hear or understand what was going on at his end. Dr. Edwards noted he tried to facilitate the conversation from his phone for Councilmember Ryan. Alfreda Daniels, resident, expressed her disappointment in the City Council and leadership of the City, to sit on this call and make excuses for what happened and how she was treated and disrespected by Councilmember Ryan. She added it is upsetting and adds insult to injury. Ms. Daniels stated she reviewed emails from 20 t 9 related to another meeting when he almost attacked her physically, which other people had witnessed. She added this should not be blamed on technology, as Councilmember Ryan heard her and interrupted her and then hung up because he was not satisfied with her comments or the way the meeting was being run. She noted, if Councilmember Ryan takes full responsibility and apologizes, she will accept that. But he is malting excuses, and Dr. Edwards is making excuses for him. Ms. Daniels added that Councilmember Graves heard what happened, and it is very upsetting that she is asking for confirmation about it when she already knows what happened. Randy Christensen, resident, thanked the City Council for addressing some of his concerns at tonight's meeting, that he expressed in his recent email to the City Council. Alfreda Daniels asked whether the City has a Code of Conduct for holding Councilmembers accountable. Mayor Elliott stated City Staff can loop into that and get back to Ms. Daniels. Mr. Boganey stated he does not believe the City has a Code of Conduct but agreed to look into it and provide information to Ms. Daniels. 01/11/21 -2- Councilmember Graves asked whether there is an ethics document that is provided for employees or new City Councilmembers when they go through orientation. Mr. Boganey stated the City Council renews its commitment to the City Charter, which is an item on tonight's agenda. He added there are conduct -related elements within the context of that Resolution, which may be the closest thing the City Council has in terms of an official policy related to Code of Conduct. Councilmember Butler stated the City Council plans to continue working with the consulting firm, and this issue could be reviewed through that work, related to developing community standards for interacting with the community. She added this is not the first time this has come up, and one of the reasons she ran for office was because she felt offended at community meetings, not by Councilmember Ryan, and she understands how that feels. She noted it is the City Council's responsibility as leaders of the community to ensure that things are handled properly, and to check themselves and each other. Mr. Boganey stated City Staff can share that request with Common Sense so they can build it into their process, if there is consensus. Councilmember Graves stated she likes that idea. She added the City Council received some tips from Common Sense when they initially worked together, that were specific to culture and interactions of the City Council, but that could apply to interactions with the community as well. She noted City Staff could include that in regular meeting information and add a reference on the agenda for meeting attendees to be used as a blueprint in the meantime for interacting with each other and the community. Mr. Boganey agreed. Mayor Elliott stated thank you to all of us for being here and holding this space and holding ourselves and each other accountable. We have a lot of work to do as a community — kids are falling behind in school; families are struggling financially; small businesses and entrepreneurs are struggling. At the same time, the community faces big opportunities. Everything he has heard here tonight moves us closer to realizing the vision for improving and creating opportunities for a better community for the residents of Brooklyn Center. He applauded everyone for the discussion that has taken place tonight. 2. INVOCATION Mayor Elliott stated this month we celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. We owe a lot to leaders like Dr. King, and the Civil Rights Movement. Dr. King said, "The time is always right to do what is right;" and "In the end we will remember not the words of our enemies but the silence of our friends." Mayor Elliott stated it is important that we put the emphasis on holding each other and this community to account so that we can move forward collectively, but also hold each other with love. As we move forward as a community, let us do it together. O1/11/21 -3- Mayor Elliott stated he hopes to schedule some time to discuss racism in America and in the community as a City Council. Research related to a recent City Group report showed that the U.S. lost $16 trillion over the last 3 decades due to racism and another $5 trillion is expected to be lost over the next 5 years. This relates to measurable terms — closing the wage gap, improving access to housing credits, and providing businesses and entrepreneurs with equitable opportunities. Mayor Elliott stressed the importance of identifying ways to improve the community and put resources to that effect in an intentional way. This will be moving all members of the community forward. He wants the City Council, as an elected body, and the community to take a step back in 2021, as community is an integral part of this work, and all voices matter. Let's move forward together, hold each other accountable, and do the hard work to ensure that the people who live in Brooklyn Center have self-determination and have agency, and are the ones that are moving and building this community in a way that is going to benefit the folks who call Brooklyn Center home. Councilmember Graves moved and Mayor Elliott seconded to close the Informal Open Forum at 7:15 p.m. Motion passed unanimously. Councilmember Graves requested a 5-minute recess before the Invocation. Mayor Elliott stated that was the Invocation. The City Council went into recess at 7:15 p.m. The City Council meeting reconvened at 7:20 p.m. Councilmember Graves led the meeting attendees through a series of deep breathing exercises. She stressed the importance of creating space for people to show up as they are and honor where they are at and have some compassion. She added a lot has happened in the last week, and she is not alone in feeling the weight of it. She urged everyone to show love for each other and themselves. 2. INVOCATION (continued) Mayor Elliott stated he already gave the Invocation during the Study Session, but he repeated his main points. He added he referenced a few quotes from Dr. King, honoring his legacy and the Civil Rights Movement: "The time is always right to do the right thing." "In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies but the silence of our friends." -Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 01/11/21 -4- Mayor Elliott stated those two quotes are instructive in these times. We must remember to always do the right thing and to always speak and address the injustices we see in our community. In recent events, we have been called on to speak and speak truthfully, regarding where we are as a community. There are a lot of great opportunities but also immense challenges. The City of Brooklyn Center has one of the worst reading rates and that is unacceptable for our children and their future. The City has businesses, including micro -entrepreneurs, that are struggling, and have been hit hard by the financial crisis. The community is experiencing serious issues involving a lack of access to food and health care. Mayor Elliott stressed the importance of being intentional and measured in actions that are taken to increase the agenda of those who live in our community and help them rise up. The City Group expert found that the United States lost $16 trillion over the last 20 years to racism, and could lose an additional $5 trillion over the next 5 years. Mayor Elliott was only partially audible and did not respond to Councilmember Grave's repeated requests to be acknowledged. Mayor Elliott stated, as we move forward in 2021, he would like to reiterate that we are doing this work together, holding each other accountable, doing it with love, but with intention of all of us being able to grow together. Mayor Elliott stated he could not hear anyone, but he can hear them now. He noted his earpiece was controlling his computer speaker while he was talking. Administer Ceremonial Oath of Office Councilmembers Marquita Butler and Kris Lawrence -Anderson were sworn in by City Clerk Barb Suciu. Question Relatin1l to Adoption of a Fair Housing Policy Mayor Elliott stated he has a question regarding Consent Agenda Item 6f, Adoption of a Fair Housing Policy. He asked whether the Policy was reviewed by the professor from the University of Minnesota who was a presenter at a previous meeting. Community Development Director Meg Beekman stated City Staff sent the policy to Dr. Goetz, who indicated he would provide comments, but he did not. Comments were received from Acer, Homeline and the Housing Justice Center, which are included in the meeting packet, and have been incorporated into the Fair Housing Policy. 3. CALL TO ORDER REGULAR BUSINESS MEETING The Brooklyn Center City Council met in Regular Session called to order by Mayor Mike Elliott at 7:42 p.m. 4. ROLL CALL O1/11/21 -5- Mayor Mike Elliott and Councilmembers Marquita Butler, April Graves, Kris Lawrence - Anderson, and Dan Ryan. Also present were City Manager Curt Boganey, Deputy City Manager Reggie Edwards, Finance Director Mark Ebensteiner, Community Development Director Meg Beekman, Fire Chief Todd Berg, City Cleric Barb Suciu, and City Attorney Troy Gilchrist. 5. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. 6. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA Mayor Elliott moved and Councilmember Graves seconded to approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda, as amended, with Agenda Item 6b to be addressed as Item 1 Od; removal of Appointment of City Council Representatives to Various Committees, and Agenda Item 6i to be addressed as Item 10e, and the following consent items were approved: 6a. RESOLUTION NO.2021-01 DESIGNATING OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER 6b. RESOLUTION DECLARING COMMITMENT TO THE BROOKLYN CENTER CITY CHARTER — moved to Item 10d 6c. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-02 RECOGNIZING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF ETHNIC POPULATIONS AND HERITAGE CELEBRATIONS 6d. RESOLUTION NO.2021-03 APPROVING THE 2021 FEE SCHEDULE 6e. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-04 AUTHORIZING ACQUISITION OF EASEMENTS FOR BROOKLYN BOULEVARD CORRIDOR PROJECT PHASE 2 IMPROVEMENTS, PROJECT NO.2021-05 6f. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-05 APPROVING THE ADOPTION OF A FAIR HOUSING POLICY 6g. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-06 DESIGNATING DEPOSITORIES OF CITY FUNDS FOR 2021 6h. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-07 OPTING NOT TO WAIVE LIMITED TORT LIABILITY FOR 2021 6i. RESOLUTION GRANTING CORPORATE AUTHORITY FOR SIGNING OF CHECKS AND TRANSACTIONS OF FINANCIAL BUSINESS MATTERS — Moved to Item 10e O1/11/21 -6- 6j. RESOLUTION 2021-08 APPOINTING MUNICIPAL TRUSTEES TO THE BROOKLYN CENTER FIRE RELIEF ASSOCIATION BOARD OF TRUSTEES Motion passed unanimously. 7. PRESENTATIONS/PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS/DONATIONS -None. 8. PUBLIC HEARINGS 8a. ORDINANCE NO. 2021-09 AMENDING CHAPTER 27 AND 19 OF THE CITY CODE OF ORDINANCES REGARDING THE OPERATION OF SNOWMOBILES, ALL -TERRAIN VEHICLES, OFF -HIGHWAY MOTORCYCLES AND OTHER RECREATIOINAL VEHICLES WITHIN THE CITY Community Development Director Meg Beekman reviewed background information related to the Snowmobile and Recreational Vehicle Ordnance, for which a public hearing and second reading are to be held at this meeting. She stated the City Council instructed the Housing Commission to review this issue in October 2020, and their recommendations were presented to City Council in November 2020. The City Council approved the proposed Ordinance's first reading on December 14, 2020 and called for a public hearing. Ms. Beekman stated the City's existing Ordinance for these uses does not indicate regulations for use of recreational vehicles on private property. The use of these types of vehicles on private property is allowed, but generally prohibited on public streets with certain exceptions, including emergency services. The proposed Ordinance places restrictions on the use of these vehicles related to length of use, noise, speed and odor, as well as proper equipment. Ms. Beekman stated City Staff reviewed the proposed Ordinance and recommended removal of the noise portions of the Ordinance from Chapter 27 to be moved to Chapter 19, to have all noise - related requirements in the same section. She added City Staff recommends that the City Council hold the public hearing and adopt the Ordinance amending Chapter 27 and 19 of the City Code of Ordinances, as well as summary publication. Mayor Elliott moved and Councilmember Graves seconded to open the Public Hearing. Motion passed unanimously. Randy Christensen thanked City Staff and the City Council for taking on this issue and seeing it through. He added this support is very important for residents who are dealing with noise issues in the neighborhoods. 01/11/21 -7- Councilmember Lawrence -Anderson acknowledged the work of the Housing Commission in their review of this issue. She thanked them for their hard work and recommendations. Councilmember Graves moved and Mayor Elliott seconded to close the Public Hearing. Motion passed unanimously. Councilmember Graves moved and Councilmember Ryan seconded to adopt ORDINANCE NO. 2021-09 Amending Chapter 27 and 19 of the City Code of Ordinances Regarding the Operation of Snowmobiles, All -Terrain Vehicles, Off -Highway Motorcycles and Other Recreational Vehicles Within the City. Motion passed unanimously. Councilmember Graves moved and Mayor Elliott seconded to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 2021- 09 Approving a summary publication of the above Ordinance. Motion passed unanimously. 8b. 2021 PROPOSED UTILITY RATES Finance Director Mark Ebensteiner reviewed proposed utility rates for 2021. The proposed rates take into consideration maintenance of service levels; stabilization of rate changes; and ensure adequate cash for operations, capital projects, and debt service. Capital improvement projects have the biggest impact on revenue needs for the City, and some bonding is planned to ease the burden. Mr. Ebensteiner stated the proposed rate increases for 2021 are 5% for water, 5% for sewer and 3% for storm. A tiered consumption charge is used for residential meters, and most residential properties fall under Tier 1. In an effort to smooth water increases, City Staff proposes a debt issuance for projects which will reduce the impact to residents. He gave a comparison of 9 area cities' utilities, with a typical user amount of 18,000 gallons of water per quarter. Brooklyn Center compares favorably in terms of next year's projected amounts. Mr. Ebensteiner stated, with regard to the recycling utility rate, Brooklyn Center is near the highest rate, due to its participation in the Hennepin Recycling Group (HRG), which sets rates to administer the program. Mayor Elliott stated he received a call from a senior Brooklyn Center resident who expressed concern about the increased rates. He added the woman asked whether the City Council could consider establishing a program to provide grant support for seniors on a fixed income who are struggling financially to make ends meet. Mr. Boganey the City of Brooklyn Center is perhaps be the only City in the State of Minnesota that has a senior discount rate for utility charges, that has been in place for at least 20 years. 01/11/21 -8- Mayor Elliott asked what the discounted rate for seniors is. Mr. Ebensteiner stated he does not have the information readily available but he can provide it for the City Council. Councilmember Graves moved and Mayor Elliott seconded to open the Public Hearing. Motion passed unanimously. Randy Christensen stated he loves recycling, and he knows it is a County requirement, but he would be in favor of finding a different contractor than the Hennepin County group. He added they seem to be disrespectful in many ways, including their actions. He noted he has complained about it but wanted to get it on record. Councilmember Graves moved and Mayor Elliott seconded to close the Public Hearing. Motion passed unanimously. Mr. Boganey stated the recycling program is required by Hennepin County, but services are contracted with a private provider. He added the three cities in the recycling group — Crystal, New Hope and Brooklyn Center — take bids collectively and hire a private contractor for recycling services. Councilmember Graves asked why it is done this way. Mr. Boganey stated the group can get a more competitive price with larger volume of recycling demand and establish greater efficiencies. Councilmember asked whether the collective organizes the community curbside pick-up every other year. Mr. Boganey confirmed this. Councilmember Graves moved and Mayor Elliott seconded to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 2021- 10 Water Utility Rates; RESOLUTION NO. 2021-11 Sanitary Sewer Utility Rates; RESOLUTION NO. 2021-12 Storm Sewer Utility Rates; RESOLUTION NO. 2021-13 Street Light Rates; and, RESOLUTION NO. 2021-14 Recycling Rates. Motion passed unanimously. 9. PLANNING COMMISSION ITEMS -None. 10. COUNCIL CONSIDERATION ITEMS 10a. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-15 REQUESTING APPROVAL FOR A NEW FIRE TRUCK PURCHASE Fire Chief Todd Berg reviewed City Staff s recommendation to purchase a new Rosenbauer aerial tower truck. The Fire Department's Engine #3, a 1992 Spartan, has fallen out of compliance and 01/11/21 -9- was due to be replaced in 2017, originally purchased to put out fires in strip malls and at Brookdale Mall. The current fleet replacement schedule is a 25-year rotation for aerial trucks. Chief Berg stated the landscape of the community and available firefighting technology has changed. The City has transformed to high density, multi -floor housing. A replacement truck will be pivotal to the safety of citizens and firefighters. The aerial bucket will be important for escapes from multi -story buildings, and the platform will hold up to 4 people, as well as have many new safety features for firefighter protection. A committee of firefighters and City Public Works mechanics reviewed vendors and options and chose Rosenbauer from Wyoming, MN, which was the cheapest option with the most positive reviews, and the only locally built truck. Mr. Ebensteiner reviewed funding and financing options for the new fire truck, working with financial advisor. The $1.4 million cost will come out of cash reserves in the Capital Replacement Fund, as recommended by City Staff. Chief Berg reviewed opportunities for discounts on the total truck price of $1,417,543 if action were to be taken tonight, reducing the total price to $550,000 due upon delivery and acceptance of the truck in spring of 2022. He added he understands the timing is not the best, but he believes now is the time for the City to purchase this truck, as prices go up annually by 3-7%, or $42,000- 98,000. He noted fleet purchases are typically made through the Central Garage in the General Budget, but this truck is being brought for separate approval due to its age of 28 years. Councilmember Graves stated she remembers seeing this presentation recently. Mr. Boganey stated this information was presented during the Capital Improvement Plan process. Councilmember Graves stated a fire truck was donated early in her tenure. She requested clarification. Mr. Boganey stated both Brooklyn Center and Brooklyn Park donated fire trucks to cities in Liberia several years ago. Councilmember Graves stated maybe other sister cities could be considered to receive the fire truck that is being replaced. She added she wanted to put the idea out there, to consider some alternatives to auction. Mayor Elliott asked whether there are opportunity costs for purchasing the truck outright. Mr. Ebensteiner stated there is not much rate of return on investment in this case, and no opportunity costs would be gained by utilizing the City's existing cash balance and strategize going forward to minimize impact on taxpayers. Chief Berg stated there is another aerial in the fire truck fleet that is 13 years old. He added the City probably does not need two aerial trucks at 100 feet, but when that truck is up for replacement, it can be replaced with an engine which would cost approximately 50% of what is currently being proposed. Mayor Elliott moved and Councilmember Ryan seconded to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 2021-15 Authorizing City Manager Boganey to Sign a Purchase Agreement for a New Fire Truck. O1/11/21 -10- Motion passed unanimously. 10b. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-16 SELECTING PRESIDING OFFICERS — MAYOR PRO TEM AND ACTING MAYOR PRO TEM Mayor Elliott nominated Councilmember Marquita Butler as Mayor Pro Tem. He added she has done a great job in this role, filling in for him when he was not available. The nomination was seconded by Councilmember Graves. The nomination passed unanimously. 10c. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-17 AMENDING THE HOSPITALITY LICENSE FOR Mr. Boganey reviewed a Resolution amending the current hospitality accommodations license with the Radisson Hotel. On November 9, 2020, the City Council adopted a Resolution approving a license for the Radisson Hotel with certain conditions, allowing no more than 50 lodging units to be used as part of a homeless shelter use. City Staff have had discussions with the service provider and the licensee about increasing the number of available units, which has been deemed appropriate at this time, as conditions have improved under current management. The licensee and service provider both agree that an incremental increase would be appropriate. Mr. Boganey stated City Staff recommends approval of the Resolution authorizing an increase in the number of available lodging units from 50 units to 75 units, effective on the date of approval. He added this approval would also revoke the previously approved lodging unit cap of 50 units. Mayor Elliott asked why there is a limit on the number of units if the operation is running smoothly. Mr. Boganey stated it is his understanding that the incremental increase was agreed upon by the service provider and licensee, which will create a more manageable situation for the service provider. He stressed the importance of ensuring that the increase would not have any detrimental impacts. Mayor Elliott asked whether the licensee was notified of this meeting. Ms. Beekman stated both the licensee and service provider were notified and had j oined the call. She added the increase in the number of available units is in line with a staffing increase, to ensure that the transition is successful. She noted the license runs with the hotel, and not the service provider, which could prove to be an issue if the service provider leaves, at which time the City would have more control over the number of available units. Mr. Nupan Patel, owner of Radisson Hotel Brooklyn Center stated he and his staff have been in talks with the service provider and City Staff. C.J., representing Second Chance, stated he and his staff have been working closely with City Staff and the hotel to ensure appropriate staffing and security. He added the agreement for 100 rooms is appropriate and will allow the partnership to continue to be successful. He thanked the City of Brooklyn Center for supporting this project. 01/11/21 -11- C.J. stated Second Chance had an opportunity to see the concerns raised by the City and the hotel atmosphere and wanted to do better for the community. He added his intention is to do something about what is happening in the community, by decreasing police calls, providing a safe place for people to stay, and creating quieter, better communities. He noted they have gotten a lot of praise from other communities who hope to develop similar programs. C.J. stated Second Chance can easily handle up to 100 units, but is willing to start with 75 units, to show that they value the community. He noted they are operating on CARES funding, which will run out at the end of February, and additional funding will need to be sought. He expressed his gratitude and the appreciation of his staff for being able to do this work with City Staff to solve everyday problems for people who need their help. Mayor Elliott asked whether the CARES funds are sufficient. C.J. stated the funds are not sufficient, but an extension of CARES funding has just been announced, and that is scheduled to last through the end of February. Mayor Elliott stated he would be interested in talking to C.J. about how the City can get involved in the project and provide financial support. He added many community members are experiencing displacement due to the pandemic and financial crisis. He noted he would like C.J to come back and discuss this issue with the City Council in the near future, so the City Council can understand the needs of the community and how to partner to solve problems and address issues. Councilmember Ryan stated all the City Councilmembers are concerned about doing everything possible to address homelessness. He added other hotels in Brooklyn Center may be willing to participate in this type of program. He noted the difficulty is finding funding. He stressed the importance of having a constructive conversation regarding the issue of how funding will be provided, and how to expand the program. Mayor Elliott stated he met today with other mayors, and many of them are considering requests from hotels to convert to long-term housing. He added the City Council must look at opportunities and challenges, and how to meet the needs of the community. Councilmember Graves extended her thanks to C.J. for the work he is doing, and City Staff and everyone working together to support the people that call that space home right now. She added she is excited to hear that the number of units will be increased and more people will be helped through this collaboration. Councilmember Graves offered to lead C.J. and his team in a meditation or yoga practice some time. C.J. agreed and thanked Councilmember Graves. Mayor Elliott stated he fought for an increase in the number of units the first time this came to the City Council. He added he knows how great the need is, and he is happy to hear things are going well and parties are working together. 01/11/21 -12- Mr. Patel thanked everyone for coming together on this project. He added he only wishes it could have been different from the beginning. Mayor Elliott dropped off the meeting at 9:28 p.m. He rejoined the meeting at 9:30 p.m. 10d. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-18 DECLARING COMMITMENT TO THE BROOKLYN CENTER CITY CHARTER Councilmember Ryan stated it has been the practice of the City Council that at the first meeting of the New Year, the City Council reads the Resolution regarding commitment to the City Charter and then votes its approval. He added, considering the late hour, the Resolution does not need to be read to declare commitment. He urged members to revisit the Resolution and be mindful as they undertake duties throughout the year, and to always be aware that Brooklyn Center is a Charter city. He stressed the importance of abiding by that fundamental law of the City. Councilmember Ryan moved and Councilmember Lawrence -Anderson seconded to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 2021-18 Declaring Commitment to the Brooklyn Center City Charter. Discussion during the motion: Mayor Elliott stated the City Council has an ongoing commitment to the City Charter and this item does not need to be added to the Agenda every year. He added, in his view, it is redundant. Councilmember Lawrence -Anderson stated she does not disagree, but it is helpful information that serves as a reminder to the public. She added she is fine with leaving it on the Consent Agenda on an annual basis. Motion passed unanimously. 10e. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-19 GRANTING CORPORATE AUTHORITY FOR SIGNING OF CHECKS AND TRANSACTIONS OF FINANCIAL BUSINESS MATTERS Mr. Gilchrist stated, since the initial discussion on this topic earlier during the Study Session, he did some research and wanted to add another piece of information. He added the City Council's Investment Policy, Section 2.22, states that authority to manage investments programs is derived from is granted to the City Manager, City Treasurer and Assistant Finance Director. The responsibility for operation of investment programs may be delegated by the City Manager to the City Treasurer who shall carry out the program consistent with this policy. No person may engage in any transaction except as provided under the terms of this policy. Mayor Elliott stated that is City Council policy, but the Charter controls everything, so Council policy should be revised. Mr. Gilchrist stated Chapter 605 states that the City Council shall by Resolution establish and maintain a purchasing policy, and by Ordinance, can dictate the safe keeping and disbursement of City funds. The Charter, in this case, does not address everything, so the City Council can fill in the gaps with City Council policy. He added, in his opinion, if the City Council agrees to amend 01/11/21 -13- the Resolution to include some reference to the Mayor participating, that is the City Council's decision. Mayor Elliott stated Section 6.04 of the City Charter states that all contracts and bonds of any kind that the City is a party to shall be signed by the Mayor and City Manager on behalf of the City. He added he feels strongly that the City Charter should be followed. He noted he is not going to belabor this but if the section needs to be amended, the City Council should do that, and live out the Charter in the City Council's actions. Mayor Elliott stated his amendment to the Resolution is that the Mayor should sign for bonds as well, but not for payroll checks or anything like that. Mayor Elliott stated he has to step away for a few minutes. He requested that Mayor Pro Tem Butler take over the meeting. Mayor Pro Tern Butler recognized that Councilmember Ryan wished to speak. Councilmember Ryan stated this Resolution is added to the Consent Agenda every year as it is an established administrative process according to standing policy. If there are good reasons to change a policy, then it should be considered further, but not in the late hours of a long meeting, and the City Council should not summarily pass an amendment to a Resolution without addition City Staff feedback and comment. He added this is an administrative matter, and there is a distinction between policy and administration. He noted he does not see a reason that this process should be changed, other than potentially that a member of the Council wants to sign more documents. He expressed his belief that this issue should be deferred pending further recommendations from City Staff. He asked whether Mr. Boganey would care to comment. Mr. Boganey stated there is a difference of opinion about the interpretation of the City Charter. The City Attorney just read the policy that the City Council has adopted that would apply in this particular case, which is consistent with the Resolution that has been prepared. He added the City Council can determine appropriate interpretation, and also the authority to modify policies, and both conversations would be appropriate if the City Council wishes. He noted he agrees that it would be premature to modify the Resolution which is based upon previous City Council policy. Councilmember Ryan moved to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 2021-19 Requiring Signature for Official City Financial Transactions. Mayor Elliott stated he already had a motion on the floor. He added he will withdraw his motion so the City Council can have this discussion on another day. Councilmember Ryan apologized if he overlooked the fact that the Mayor already made a motion. He added he appreciates that the Mayor has withdrawn his motion, as this could end up being somewhat of an extended discussion. Mayor Elliott seconded the motion. O1/11/21 -14- Discussion during the motion: Mayor Elliott stated Councilmember Ryan characterized this as another member just wanting to sign documents, and that is not the case. He added there are many reasons why multiple signatures should be required on financial documents, including transparency and accountability. He added the City Charter is extremely clear on this issue. Mr. Gilchrist stated, for purposes of clarification, Councilmember Ryan made a motion to adopt the Resolution as presented. He added Mayor Elliott seconded the motion. Mayor Elliott stated yes, he is aware. He added he seconded the motion in the interests of having this discussion on another day. The motion passed unanimously. Mayor Elliott thanked Councilmember Butler for presiding over the meeting in his absence. 11. COUNCIL REPORT Mayor Elliott stated he attended a legislative breakfast that morning hosted by the Robbinsdale School District. He added many elected officials were in attendance, including School Board members. It was a very productive meeting at which legislative priorities of the School District and key issues related to education were reviewed. The School Board will be voting on moving to the Community School model. Mayor Elliott stated he attended a Regional Mayor's meeting that day, which featured a presentation from a University of Minnesota professor regarding changing land use, development and transportation. The City Council had talked about having a discussion with him. Mayor Elliott stated he serves on the Regional Mayor's equity and inclusion committee. He added he will keep the City Council updated. Mayor Elliott stated he met with the City's financial auditor that day to talk about the City's finances. 12. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Elliott moved and Councilmember Graves seconded adjournment of the City Council meeting at 9:54 p.m. Motion passed unanimously. 01/11/21 -15- STATE OF MINNESOTA) COUNTY OF HENNEPIN) ss. Certification of Minutes CITY OF BROOKLYN CENTER) The undersigned, being the duly qualified and appointed City Clerk of the City of Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, certifies: 1. That attached hereto is a full, true, and complete transcript of the minutes of a Regular Session of the City Council of the City of Brooklyn Center held on January 11, 2021. 2. That said meeting was held pursuant to due call and notice thereof and was duly held at Brooklyn Center City Hall. 3. That the City Council adopted said minutes at its January 25, 2021, Regular Session. &41&��AAIA Barbara Suciu, City Clerk Mike Elliott, Mayor 01/11/21 -16-