SUNFISH LAKE CITY COUNCIL MEETING – APRIL 5, 2016

 

7:00 P.M. - ST. ANNE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

 

 

 

Attendants:

 


Mayor: Molly Park

 

Councilmembers: Mike Hovey, JoAnne Wahlstrom, Steven Bulach and Richard Williams

 

City Attorney: Tim Kuntz

 

City Planners: Michelle Barness and Ryan Grittman

 

Engineer: Don Sterna

 

City Treasurer: Ann Lanoue

 

Building Inspector: Mike Andrejka
City Forester: Jim Nayes
Police Chief: Manila Shaver

 

City Clerk: Cathy Iago

 

and Members of the General Public.

 

 

 

1. CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Park opened the meeting at 7:00 p.m.

2. APPROVE AGENDA: Mayor Park asked if there were any additions or corrections to the agenda and there was no response.

Councilmember Wahlstrom moved to adopt the agenda as submitted, seconded by Councilmember Hovey and carried. (5-0)

 

3. CONSENT AGENDA: Mayor Park asked if there were any questions or comments relating to any items on the Consent Agenda

Clerk Iago explained that she had received corrections from a resident who attended the Special Meeting on March 10, 2016 and had prepared a revised copy of the March 10, 2016 Special Meeting minutes for adoption by Council this evening. She stated that the revisions were misspellings and a name correction, but did not change the intent of the discussion.

The Mayor asked if there were any other comments or corrections and there was no response.

 

 

Councilmember Williams moved approval of the Consent Agenda with the revised Special Meeting minutes of March 10 2016, seconded by Councilmember Hovey and carried. (5-0)

 

a. Regular Council Meeting Minutes of March 2,2016 and Revised Special Council Meeting Minutes of March 10, 2016

 

b. List of Bills

 

c. Monthly Financials

 

 

 

4. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC: The Mayor asked if there were any comments from the public.

Meg Gehrig stated that the winter copy of the Sunfish Lake Quarterly newsletter stated that St. Louis Park Mayor Jake Spano would be attending a conference and presenting information to the FAA; she asked if this was done.

Mayor Park explained that Mayor Spano had attended the National League of Cities conference but had not presented a report to the Noise Oversight Committee (NOC). She noted that the NOC would be meeting in May and she would report on the matter at a future Council meeting.

Ms. Gehrig advised that she had discussions with Liz Petchel from Mendota Heights regarding this matter and asked how she could contact Liz.

Mayor Park explained that Mendota Heights has a seat on the NOC because they are closer to the airport noise, but Sunfish Lake does not have a seat on the committee. She advised that any questions should be directed to Apple Valley Councilmember John Bergman who serves as an At-Large member of the Noise Oversight Committee (NOC) and represents Sunfish Lake and several other second tier cities: She offered to provide Ms. Gehrig his contact information.

Jodie Miller, Executive Director of NDC4, explained that Liz Petchel had arranged a NOC meeting at the Mendota Heights City Hall which was taped and may be viewed on-line.

Mayor Park further explained that a representative from the Metropolitan Airport Commission (MAC) attends a meeting once a year to provide updated information to Council.

 


The Mayor asked if there were any further questions or comments and there was no response.

5. PUBLIC HEARING/PRESENTATIONS: a. Public Hearing; Discuss Century Link Cable Television Franchise Ordinance: Mayor Park opened the public hearing for the purpose of discussing the proposed cable franchise ordinance for Qwest Broadband Services Inc., d/b/a CenturyLink. She introduced Jodie Miller, Executive Director of NDC4, and Brian Grogan, Attorney representing NDC4.

 


Brian Grogan stated that at the last meeting he provided an overview of the proposed Century Link cable franchise ordinance and he offered to respond to any questions from Council or those present. He explained that there were three items for Council consideration this evening; 1) a resolution outlining "findings of fact" to support the granting CenturyLink a cable franchise ordinance; 2) the ordinance granting CenturyLink the cable franchise; and, 3) a resolution adopting and approving for publication a summary and title of the ordinance.

Attorney Grogan explained that Patrick Haggerty, representing CenturyLink was present and would respond to questions relating to the CenturyLink application.

Mayor Park asked if CenturyLink would initially be constructing any new infrastructure, such as poles in the City or if that would occur after they meet the goals outlined in the ordinance.

Attorney Grogan explained that he was told CenturyLink would be using the existing cable structure initially and as time goes on they may add additional infrastructure.

Patrick Haggerty agreed with Attorney Grogan’s assessment and explained that CenturyLink may do work with existing infrastructure, but has no plans to add any new equipment.

Mayor Park asked how CenturyLink plans to contact potential clients within the City and asked if contact would be only by mail or email versus door-to-door solicitation.

Mr. Haggerty explained that initially CentruyLink would use direct mailing to determine if a resident qualifies for the service. He noted that the door-to-door sales may occur once qualification is established and that CenturyLink would apply for permits to do so as outlined in the City Code.

Councilmember Williams noted that there may be limitations on penetration within Sunfish Lake and asked if there are any plans to withdraw if goals cannot be met.

Mr. Haggerty responded no and explained that there would be more involved if CenturyLink wished to withdraw.

Attorney Grogan agreed that there are procedures in place that would preclude a withdrawal of services.

Mayor Park asked if there were any comments from the public and hearing none, called for a motion to close the public hearing.

Councilmember Williams moved to close the public hearing at 7:10 p.m., seconded by Councilmember Bulach and carried. (5-0)

Attorney Kuntz advised that there were three items for Council consideration, as previously outlined by Attorney Grogan.

Councilmember Williams moved to adopt Resolution No. 16-09 titled, RESOLUTION REGARDING AN ORDINANCE GRANTING A COMPETITIVE CABLE FRANCHISE TO QWEST BROADBAND SERVICES, INC., D/B/A CENTURYLINK, seconded by Councilmember Wahlstrom and carried (5-0)

 

 

 

 

Councilmember Hovey moved to adopt Ordinance No. 2016-01 titled, AN ORDINANCE GRANTING A FRANCHISE TO QWEST BROADBAND SERVICES, INC. D/B/A CENTRUYLINK ("GRANTEE") TO CONSTRUCT, OPERATE, AND MAINTAIN A COMPETITIVE CABLE COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM IN THE CITY OF SUNFISH LAKE, MINNESOTA, SETTING FORTH CONDITIONS ACCOMPANYING THE GRANT OF THE FRANCHISE; PROVIDING FOR REGULATION AND USE OF THE SYSTEM AND THE PUBLIC RIGHTS-OF-WAY; AND PRESCRIBING PENALTIES FOR THE VIOLATION OF THE PROVISIONS HEREIN, seconded by Councilmember Wahlstrom and carried. (5-0)

 

Councilmember Williams moved to adopt Resolution No. 16-10 titled, RESOLUTION ADOPTING AND APPROVING FOR PUBLICATION THE SUMMARY AND TITLE OF ORDINANCE NO. 2016-01, seconded by Councilmember Hovey and carried. (5-0)

Mayor Park thanked Jodie Miller, Brian Grogan and Patrick Haggerty for their attendance.

b. Public Hearing; Review City’s Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program Plan (SWPPP) and National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES):: Mayor Park opened the public hearing for the purpose of reviewing the City’s SWPPP and NPDES and asked the City Engineer to present the information.

Engineer Sterna explained that as part of the MS4 permitting process the City must conduct a meeting annually to educate residents on water quality issues, to review the City’s SWPPP Best Management Practices (BMP’s), and to receive comments from the public on the City’s MS4 program. He introduced Environmental Specialist Meghan Litsey who would provide information and receive public comments.

 

 

 

Environmental Specialist Meghan Litsey distributed information relating to the Phase II National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permit. She explained that the City must report the previous year’s activities by June 30 each year. She stated that the City is required to conduct an annual public hearing for the purpose of educating the public on methods to improve water quality, to ensure permit requirements have been met, and to receive public input. She advised that the City is also required to update their current Best Management Practices (BMP’s) and reviewed the six minimum control measures undertaken annually; 1) public education and outreach, 2) public participation and involvement, 3) illicit discharge detection and elimination, 4) construction site storm water runoff control, 5) post-construction storm water management, and 6) pollution prevention and good housekeeping for municipal operations.

 

 

 

Ms. Litsey explained that the City fulfilled the 2015 permit requirements by completing plan reviews for construction within the City, posting information to residents on the City website and via the four (4) issues of the City newsletter. She noted that the articles in the newsletter included information relating to recycling and encouraging installation of rain gardens. She further advised that the City completed street sweeping, updated septic pumping record, and participated in the Citizen Associated Monitoring (CAMP) Program for monitoring lake water quality. She explained that the City was audited by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) and some recommendations were provided by the MPCA to improve the program; she noted that staff had taken care of the recommended items. She further noted that the MPCA sent out a draft plan relating to Upper Mississippi River Bacteria TMDL and that staff provided comments on the plan; she noted that the City has no direct impact on the river.

Ms. Litsey advised that staff would continue to maintain the existing program in 2016 and attempt to increase education on residential best management practices and illicit discharge activities. She offered to respond to questions.

Mayor Park explained that she would provide information later on the agenda relating to joining the Green Step Cities Program and noted that this is one portion of the program requirements.

 


The Mayor asked if there were any questions or comments from the audience and hearing none, she asked for a motion to close the public hearing. She thanked Ms. Litzey for her presentation.

Councilmember Williams moved to close the public hearing at 7:40 p.m., seconded by Councilmember Bulach and carried. (5-0)

6. PLANNING COMMISSION/PLANNER’S REPORT: a. Discuss Conners Administrative Permit for Chicken and Bee Keeping: Planner Barness referred to her report dated March 30, 2016 and explained that Dan and Martha Conners are requesting approval for keeping chickens and bees on their adjoining properties located at 205 and 145 Salem Church Road. She stated that typically keeping of farm animals on residential property is granted by an Administrative Permit and does not require review by Planning Commission or Council; however, she requests guidance form Council as to how best interpret the requirements due to a potential conflict in application of the standards. She referred to the site map attached to her report to show the proposed location of the chicken coop and the bee hives. She stated that she sent notice to the adjacent property owners to request their input.

The Planner explained that the zoning ordinance specifies that the proposed bee keeping area not be located closer to the principal structure than to the nearest lot line; however the proposed location shown on the site map is ideal for the health of the animal, which is also a requirement. She advised that she discussed the issues with the City Forester, who reviewed the proposed location, and they both agree that this unique situation warrants some flexibility in the interpretation of the zoning standards.

Planner Barness advised that Dan Conners was present to respond to questions.

Councilmember Williams advised that the bees he kept on this property were placed in the best location for the health of the bees and in his opinion there are no problems with the proposed location.

Mayor Park asked if staff heard from the neighbors regarding the request and asked if this would be considered a variance.

The Planner stated she only heard from one neighbor, Richard Bancroft, who supported the request. She explained that they are special circumstances related to the proposed location of the bees, however, she does not consider this a variance request, rather a request for Council interpretation of the request.

Attorney Kuntz advised that staff is merely requested Council input as to interpretation of the zoning standards and if Council determines there is no conflict with the location for the health of the animals they should take action for approval of the administrative permit.

Forester Nayes explained that the bees would be located at least 100 ft. from any property line and 300 ft. from any house. He further advised that the hives would not been seen and not visible due to trees and vegetation that would screen them. He recommended the permit be granted based on the unique circumstances related to the property.

Councilmember Williams moved to authorize staff to approve the administrate permit based on the unique circumstances and allow the placement of the bees in the location shown on the site map that best suits the health of the animal, seconded by Councilmember Wahlstrom and carried. (5-0)

 

b. Discuss Conditional Use Permit for Ground Mounted Solar Energy System: Planner Barness referred to her report dated March 20, 2016 and explained that she had attempt to find additional information on granting ground-mounted solar panels by conditional use permit. She noted that the City of Mendota Heights regulates all solar energy system as conditional uses and their conditions are similar to those provided in the draft ordinance reviewed by Council.

The Planner explained that she amended the current draft ordinance to require the ground-mounted systems are a conditional use so that the City had the opportunity to examine specific project in detail as they relate to setbacks, screening requirements, etc. She pointed out two specific changes to the draft ordinance as follows: 1) the permitted height for the ground mounted system was reduced from 16 ft. to 12 ft., which is the current accessory structure height limitation; and, 2) ground-mounted systems are not permitted in front yards.

Planner Barness stated that roof-mounted and geo-thermal systems would be permitted uses and ground-mounted systems would be listed as conditional use permits. She referred to page 2 of her report which listed four (4) additional changes to the proposed ordinance that clarify approvals and applicable standards.

Councilmember Bulach asked if the standards apply to the entire City and not just the properties adjacent to the lake and the Planner responded yes.

There was discussion relating to the size of the panels and what size would be sufficient to provide enough energy to service a home.
Planner Barness explained that some communities limit the panels to 6 ft. in height, therefore 12 ft. should be sufficient depending on the number of panels installed.

Mayor Park and Councilmember Wahlstrom commented that they would prefer to keep the panels small.

Councilmember Williams pointed out that the panels are normally installed in the rear yard and in his opinion the real issue would relate to whether or not they could be screened from neighbors.

Councilmember Bulach asked if the lake side of the home is considered the front or rear yard.

 

Planner Barness explained that typically the lake side is considered the rear yard.

Mayor Park asked if staff is requesting action this evening.

The Planner explained that if Council has no other changes this evening, she would incorporate the changes discussed in her report and bring a finalized version of the ordinance for action at the May meeting.

Councilmember Hovey stated he would prefer to limit the size or the total square footage of the panels in the ordinance.

The Planner stated she would attempt to get information from Brian Ross on the total square footage and place a recommendation in the final version of the ordinance presented in May. She explained that she would post a notice for a public hearing due to the number of changes incorporated into the document.

c. Planner’s Report: Planner Barness referred to her report dated March 30, 2016 and explained that she and the City Forester had discussed updating the landscape and screening plantings that are included in the City code. She advised that the discussion related to improving the list of plant species that would grow well and not fail and would be better included for screening purposes. She stated she would work with the Forester to draft an ordinance amendment for review at a public hearing at the April Planning Commission meeting.

Councilmember Williams agreed that this would be a good start for discussion when meeting with applicants.

Councilmember Hovey suggested that there be discussion relating to directing staff to check the plantings on an annual basis.

Councilmember Williams suggested that staff could send reminder notices to residents every 3 to 5 years, similar to those sent for septic pumping, to verify that the plantings are still alive or the Forester could setup a reminder system to check properties.

Forester Nayes explained that he is uncomfortable with identifying an exact species in the document due to the fact that disease could affect certain species. He suggested that he could find a publication that recommends updated information on plantings as a reference for applicants.

 

Council thanked the Planner for her report.

 

7. STAFF REPORTS: a. BUILDING INSPECTOR: Inspector Andrejka referred to his report dated March 30, 2016 and advised he issued ten (10) and closed twelve (12) permits.

Council thanked the Inspector for his report.

b. CITY ENGINEER: 1. Engineering Activities Undertaken in March: A. SWPPP Yearly Public Hearing: Engineer Sterna advised that the public hearing was conducted earlier in the meeting by Meghan Litsey.

B. Spring Load Limits: The Engineer advised that the load limits were in effect and would remain thru most of April. He explained that the load limit on roads in the City were posted at 7-ton and Charlton Road was posted at 4-ton.

 

c. Snow Plowing for March: The Engineer advised that he is currently working to review the invoices with the snow plow company and that the City currently owes approximately $9,000. He advised that he wished to discuss the City’ snow plow policy regarding the use of sand/salt mixture prior to next year’s plowing season. He stated he would update this item at the May meeting.

D. TH110 Improvement Project for 2017: Engineer Sterna referred to the memo from MnDOT Engineer Molly Kline dated April 5, 2016 that outlined their evaluation of the proposed design modifications presented by the Citizens Task Force at the March 10 meeting. He commented MnDOT for their attendance at the March 10 meeting and complimented the Citizen Task Force on their work to identify proposed modifications to the project. He stated that MnDOT reviewed the proposed changes at Charlton Road and reviewed the turning radius for a vehicle pulling a boat to make a U-turn at this location; it was determined that this can be accomplished with a wider shoulder. He stated that MnDOT would take out both access points at Sunfish Lane. He noted that MnDOT agreed to install a drive over area at Charlton Road and also provide a grassy drive over area at Sunfish Lane to accommodate emergency vehicles and agreed to plow these areas in the winter. He advised that he would request MnDOT prepare an agreement with the following items included: 1) making offset left turn lanes at Charlton Road and opposing lane offset; 2) install a drive over median for fire emergency vehicles and pedestrian accommodations at Charlton Road; 3) lengthen the turn lanes at Mendota Road; and, 4) install flashing yellow turn arrows at Mendota Road.

The Engineer stated that the fire response time were analyzed based on the current hydrant locations and potential hydrants installed in St. Anne’s Church Parking lot. He advised there would be significant time savings for residents on Sunfish Lane and also on Charlton Road if the hydrants were added and also reduction in insurance rates for structures within 1,000 ft. of the hydrants. He explained the installation would have to be discussed with St. Anne’s Church and that he had attempted to contact St. Paul Water Department regarding the installation. He estimated the cost for installation of the hydrants with steel casing to be $95,000; he stated the steel casing portion of the cost would be $26,000. He indicated that he would ask MnDOT if they would be willing to participate in the cost sharing by paying for the steel casing for the pipes under the highway. He stated he would further discuss this item at the May meeting.

Chief Shaver pointed out that vehicles always crossover the highway at Charlton Road and he asked the Engineer to support a recommendation for no crossovers at this location.

Engineer Sterna explained that the offset lanes with raised curbs should deter the crossovers. He offered to ask MnDOT to install bollards to further prohibit the crossovers.

Councilmember Hovey asked if the utility pole at Charlton Road would be removed.

Engineer Sterna stated he was unsure but he would contact MnDOT to bring it to their attention.

Councilmember Hovey commented that when he and the Mayor met with MnDOT representative they presented the construction schedule for the highway as one side of the road would be closed for approximately a month and a half and then the other side for the same time period.

The Engineer stated he the City should determine if MnDOT should include paving a portion of Charlton Road as part of this project so that he may formally notify them.

E. Charlton Road Improvement Project Discussion: The Engineer advised that the conditions on Charlton Road continue to deteriorate and maintenance costs continue to increase, especially on the northern half of the road. He noted that obtaining necessary easements continues to pose a problem along with financing the project. He recommended the City schedule an "Open House" for residents to discuss the current maintenance costs, maintenance challenges and drainage issues. He noted that financial options and how to acquire easements could also be discussed at the meeting. He explained that if the City wishes to be included with the MnDOT project, these issues would have to be decided soon.

Mayor Park advised that residents would appreciate a neighborhood meeting. She noted that the City would have to pay the church rental for any additional monthly meetings and asked if a resident could host the event at their home.

Councilmember Bulach commented that the meeting should be setup before June.

 

Resident Kitzie Nye agreed and pointed out that some residents go their lake homes during the summer months. She stated that her husband served on the Charlton Road Task Force in 2008 and at that time the residents were split as to whether or not to pave the road. She indicated that the worst portion of the road was near the Dobrantz property and north of that parcel. She also commented that some residents are new since 2008 and may support paving the road.

There was discussion as to when and where to hold the open house. Kitzie Nye offered to host the meeting and stated she would talk to the Engineer to discuss dates and times.

F. 2017 City Improvement Project Discussion: Engineer Sterna explained that the City’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) call for improvements on the east end of Salem Church Road in 2017, with assessments to properties in 2018. He discussed the challenges with assessments for the project and the bond issue. He stated that this would be the last major road reconstruction scheduled in the City for several years.

Treasurer Lanoue explained that the costs and the bond issues could be structured for the project.

The Engineer advised he would formally present this matter at the May meeting.

 

 

 

G. Building and Site Reviews: The Engineer stated he had one pre-application meeting and one major plan review this month.

2. Public Works Activities Undertaken in the Month of March: None.

 


3. Anticipated Engineering Activities for April: A. Charlton Road Potential Improvements: The Engineer advised he would continue to work on this matter and schedule the open house in May.

B. TH110 Improvement Project for 2017: Engineer Sterna stated he would communicate with MnDOT, the Task Force and the Fire Chief to work through any remaining concerns from the joint meeting. He noted any final plan modifications need to be resolved in April for incorporation into the final plans.

 

C. 2016-2020 CIP Update: The Engineer explained he would prepare the draft 2017-2021 CIP for Council review at the May meeting.

 

4. Anticipated Public Works Activities for April: A. 2016 Crackseal and Sealcoat Project: Engineer Sterna stated he would prepare the construction documents and request Council authorization of the project and approval to solicit quotes at the May Council meeting.

Mayor Park asked if the Engineer wished to have action taken this evening and he responded yes.

Councilmember Wahlstrom moved to authorize the City Engineer to obtain three (3) quotes for the 2016 Crackseal and Sealcoat project, seconded by Councilmember Hovey and carried. (5-0)

B. Street Sweeping Quotes: The Engineer referred to the three quotes received for the annual street weeping. He noted that last year’s contract was awarded to Mike McPhillips. He explained the McPhillips quote was slightly higher than the low quote; however, they included water which is a key component to sweeping. He stated they had done a satisfactory job the past few years and recommended awarding the bid to Mike McPhillips.

Councilmember Williams moved to award the bid for street sweeping to Mike McPhillips in the amount of $1,475.00, seconded by Councilmember Bulach and carried. (5-0)

C. 2016 Street Repair Recommendation: Engineer Sterna advised that the 2016 contained a line item for bituminous street patching in the amount of $7,500. He noted that in the past the City hired Pine Bend Paving to perform this work along with other task such as grading and sign repairs. He explained that Pine Bend Paving submitted a quote for the patching repairs in the amount of $5,760. He recommended that Council authorize the repairs in an amount not to exceed $$6,250 in case additional tasks are added.

Councilmember Hovey asked if something could be added at the end of Charlton Road near Highway 110.
Engineer Sterna stated he would add that to the repair project.

Councilmember Bulach moved to award the quote to Pine Bend Paving and authorize an expenditure not to exceed $6,250 for the 2016 Street Repairs, seconded by Councilmember Wahlstrom and carried. (5-0)

 


Council thanked the Engineer for his report.

 

c. CITY FORESTER: Forester Nayes stated he was working on the Arbor Day newsletter and that it would be mailed out in the near future. He noted that Arbor Day normally conflicted with spring clean-up days and recommended changing the date of the 2016 Arbor Day to Sunday May 1, from 2-4 p.m. in an attempt to attract more people.

The Forester stated he issued one (1) burning permit in March and residents were cautioned about dry conditions and the annual spring DNR burning restrictions. He stated that the ice was off the lake on March 12 and that the water levels on the lakes are higher than usual.

Forester Nayes advised he met with the Seidel’s regarding their chicken permit and walked the property where the Conners desire to have chickens and bees. He also reviewed and discussed landscape and tree zoning questions with the Planner and forwarded suggestions to her.

The Forester stated he met with an Eagle Scout who was interested in managing an improvement project for Musser Park and he was waiting for a draft of the proposal.

Forester Nayes advised he prepared a newsletter article on mosquitos and encephalitis, with recommendations on how to prevent their breeding by removing items from the property that hold water. He also noted that hollow trees, sand box toys and other items that hold water are breeding areas for mosquitos.

Resident Kitzie Nye asked if the mosquito control personnel treat areas of standing water on vacant land or properties with absent homeowners.

The Forester stated he was unsure but it was his opinion that they do not access property without permission.

Councilmember Wahlstrom moved to approve the date change to Sunday, May 1, 2016 for the Arbor Day celebration, seconded by Councilmember Williams and carried. (5-0)

Council thanked the Forester for his report.

d. PUBLIC SAFETY: Chief Shaver reviewed his report dated March 31, 2016 and advised there were six (6) false alarms for the month. He stated there were two thefts reported, one being a theft from a mailbox in the City. He urged residents to bring their mail to the post office rather than place important documents in their mailboxes for pickup. He offered to respond to questions.

Council thanked the Chief for his report.

8. NEW/OTHER BUSINESS: a. Consider Resolution to Participate in the Dakota County All-Hazards Mitigation Planning Process: Chief Shaver referred to his report dated April 5, 2016 and explained that the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 requires counties and cities to prepare and review their All-Hazards Mitigation Plans every five (5) years. He explained that in the early 1990’s FEMA initiated the plan to provide local government more control over disasters that occur and Dakota County’s first plan was approved by the Minnesota Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in 2006. He advised that Sunfish Lake did not adopt a plan, but rather relied on Dakota County’s plan for emergency situations. He recommended that the City adopt the proposed resolution which allows the City to provide input relating to emergency events that occur within Sunfish Lake. He commented that the City of West St. Paul had two back-to-back emergency events related to tornados that also caused damage in Sunfish Lake and participation in the mitigation plan allows the cities to recover costs associated with damage and clean-up after such events

 

 

 

Mayor Park noted that the plan also allows cities to confer during emergency events.

 

Chief Shaver agreed and explained that a Emergency Operations Center (EOC) would be set-up when a disaster occurs which was a new addition to the plan this year.

The Mayor asked if there were any questions and there was no response.

Councilmember Williams moved to adopt Resolution No. 16-11 titled RESOLUTION TO PARTICIPATE IN THE DAKOTA COUNTY ALL-HARDS MITIGATION PLANNING PROCESS, seconded b Councilmember Hovey and carried. (5-0)

Resident Linda Tuohy commented that West St. Paul offers their residents an emergency alert system and asked if Sunfish Lake residents could be added to the contact list.

Chief Shaver explained the emergency alert comes from the Dakota County Communications Center and advised that Sunfish Lake residents could sign up for the alerts on the Dakota County website. He noted that alerts may be received on electronic devices if the resident is away from home.

Councilmember Wahlstrom suggested that information be placed in the City newsletter for all residents.

 

b. Discuss City of Sunfish Lake to Participation in the Minnesota GreenStep Cities Program: Mayor Park explained that she was asking to participate in the GreenStep Cities Program in an effort to protect the environment by reducing energy use and waste through recycling. She advised that Inver Grove Heights recently applied for approval and cities that participate will receive an award at the League of Minnesota Cities conference which is scheduled in June, 2016.

The Mayor referred to the March 30, 2016 memorandum prepared by the City Attorney which outlines the information and asked that Council review the documents for discussion and consideration at the May Council meeting.

Councilmember Williams noted that he reviewed the information and it appears that the City is already doing most of the items identified in the document.

 

c. Brief Summary of MnDOT Proposed Changes to Highway 110 Improvements: Mayor Park explained that this item was discussed during the Engineer’s report. On behalf of the Council she commended the Citizens Task Force for their hard work and their presentation of the report to MnDOT at the special meeting on March 10, 2016. She expressed the hope that the new scenarios proposed In project would improve traffic along Highway 110. She also thanked Bernie Tuohy for his presentation at the special meeting.

Task Force Member Linda Tuohy thanked the Council for the support they provided the Task Force.

 

 

 

d. Consider Authorizing Expenditure for Printing Costs for Minnesota Mayor’s Conference Postcards: Mayor Park explained that she wished to print postcards with historical information and photos of the City of Sunfish Lake for inclusion in the packets distributed to Minnesota Mayors at their annual conference in April. She advised that the City of Sunfish Lake is hosting the conference weekend events. She stated Clerk Iago advised the printing costs should not exceed $100.

Councilmember Wahlstrom moved to authorize the expenditure not to exceed $100 for printing costs for the annual Mayor’s conference, seconded by Councilmember Williams and carried. (5-0)

 

 

e. Other: Mayor Park asked if there was any further business and there was no response. She thanked Planner Barness for the excellent job she has done during her service to the City and welcomed Planner Grittman as the new planner. She extended best wishes to Michelle and her family on the move to Iowa and also on her new job.

 


9. ADJOURN: Councilmember Wahlstrom moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:45 p.m. seconded by Councilmember Williams and carried (5-0)

____________________________ ________________________________

 

Catherine Iago, City Clerk Molly Park, Mayor