SUNFISH LAKE CITY COUNCIL MEETING – JUNE 1, 2010
7:00 P.M. - ST. ANNE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
Attendants:
Mayor: Molly Park
Councilmembers: Cathy DeCourcy, Judy MacManus, Richard Williams and Roger Conant.
City Attorney: Tim Kuntz
City Building Official: Russ Wahl
City Forester: Jim Nayes
City Planner: Laurie Smith
City Engineer: Tim Hanson
City Treasurer: Mike Blair
City Clerk: Cathy Iago
Police Chief Manila Shaver
and Members of the General Public.
1. CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Molly 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 Conant moved approval of the Agenda, seconded by Councilmember DeCourcy and carried. (4-0)
Councilmember Williams arrived at 7:02 p.m.
3. CONSENT AGENDA: The Mayor asked if there were any questions or comments relating to any items on the Consent Agenda.
Councilmember Conant stated he would abstain from voting on the Council minutes of May 4, 2010 since he was not in attendance at the meeting.
Councilmember DeCourcy moved approval of the Consent Agenda, seconded by Councilmember MacManus and carried. (Ayes: 4-DeCourcy, MacManus, Williams, Park; Nayes: 0; Abstain: 1-Conant)
a. Regular Council Meeting minutes of May 4, 2010.
b. List of Bills
c. Monthly Financials
4. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC: None.
5. PUBLIC HEARINGS/PRESENTATIONS: None.
6. PLANNING COMMISSION/PLANNER’S REPORT:
a. Discussion of Rental Property at 32-55th Street West: Planner Smith explained that she had sent a letter to the property owners regarding the issue of more than three unrelated persons living in a single family dwelling at 32 West 55th Street in response to Council discussion at their May meeting. She advised that she had also reviewed several other cities ordinances relating to the definition of “family” and found that the majority of the cities define family as two or more persons unrelated by blood, marriage or adoption and no more than three unrelated persons living in a single family neighborhood. She further advised that a listing of police calls to the property was sent to Council. She stated that the letter also invited the property owner to attend this meeting to discuss the matter with Council.
Mayor Park recognized property owner Gretchen Keenan and asked if she had received the information sent to Council. Ms. Keenan responded yes.
Councilmember Conant referred to the police activity report for the property and stated he was unaware of the meaning of the abbreviations listed on the report; he noted it appears that most of the calls were related to securing the property.
Chief Shaver stated that a previous renter on the premises was involved in drug activities and that this person no longer rents the property; he explained that since the property was vacant for a period of time, the police department periodically checked the property to insure the previous renter did not come back and to establish that the property was secured.
Councilmember Conant asked if the police were checking in response to complaints. The Chief responded no and explained the police were being proactive.
Ms. Keenan stated she was surprised by the number of calls to the property that were listed in the report.
Councilmember Conant commented that the property does not appear to be troublesome since the previous renter vacated the premise. Chief Shaver agreed and explained that the current issue relates to zoning compliance.
Councilmember DeCourcy asked the property owner to explain the current rental situation.
Ms. Keenan explained that she was advised by the police of the drug activity on the property two years ago and that she was surprised by the number of calls to the property. She stated that when the previous renter vacated the property, her husband cleaned up the premises prior to putting it up for rent. She stated that she was extremely careful screening applicants for rental and did background investigations on perspective renters. She advised that the current rental contract was for three persons from Florida who are working for Comcast for approximately one year; she noted that she conducted background checks on the three individuals and found them to be reputable.
Ms. Keenan advised that the three persons on the rental contract are related and that they had invited three unrelated persons, who also work on the Comcast project, to live at the property during the project. She commented that they have done extensive work to clean-up the property and have offered to do landscaping. She indicated that all six of the individuals have been respectful of the neighbors and excellent tenants; however, she stated that if the City finds this to be a problem, she is willing to tell them that the other three persons must leave.
Councilmember Conant asked how this matter came to the City’s attention. Chief Shaver indicated that the Building Inspector noted a problem with a bonfire on the premises and asked the police to check the property.
Inspector Wahl advised that he was conducting an inspection related to a problem with the septic system and asked if the property owners had a burning permit.
Councilmember Williams indicated he was under the impression there was a complaint regarding parking.
Councilmember Conant asked if anyone had complained about the property and the Chief responded no.
Mayor Park asked the Chief to provide an update on the persons living on the property.
Chief Shaver stated that the police department talked to the residents and found that three are related and are from Florida; he explained that the other three persons are not related and that two are from Michigan and one is from Colorado. He pointed out that West St. Paul has aggressively regulated this zoning issue based on the fact that there was a fire in a residence in West St. Paul and there were 25 people living in the home. He also noted that there are issues relating to the size of the septic system and whether or not it is designed to handle the volume created by number of persons living in the home.
Ms. Keenan explained it is a six bedroom home and that the septic system should accommodate six people.
Councilmember Conant asked the Building Inspector to comment on the septic system. Inspector Wahl explained that an addition to the home was built prior to his employment as inspector and therefore, he is unable to comment on the septic system.
Ms. Keenan advised that a new septic system was installed on the property just prior to her purchasing the land.
Councilmember Williams commented that he was under the impression the City was attempting to discourage rental property and that the issue is not whether or not the septic system could accommodate six people. He asked the City Attorney if there was some process the City may use to limit the current situation, such as placing a sunset clause on this incident and prohibiting future non-compliant rental of the property, without establishing precedence.
Councilmember Conant asked what would happen if the City does nothing and questioned if that would set precedence.
Attorney Kuntz indicated that there are options for Council consideration and reviewed them as follows:
1) Council may address the matter by amending the ordinance; he indicated there does not appear to be consensus that Council wishes to expand the number of unrelated persons living in a single family dwelling;
2) Council may consider a variance request which would require establishing a hardship; the City Attorney pointed out that there does not appear to be a hardship related to this use of the property;
3) Council may determine that the property is in violation of the zoning ordinance; the City Attorney indicated that Council may set a date for the property owner to cease the illicit rental of the property and then not proceed to prosecution of the matter if the rental ceases on that date;
4) Council may direct some form of enforcement of the matter, such as requesting the property become compliant immediately and that the property owner must advise the renters that only the three persons may reside on the premises.
Councilmember Williams asked if Council has the authority to make the decision discretionary for this property.
Attorney Kuntz responded that Council may exercise discretion for a limited time period for this property. He asked the property owner when the rental contract expires.
Ms. Keenan responded that the contract expires in December; however, the renters were unsure if the project would continue for another six months after that time period.
Councilmember MacManus supported the option requiring a limited time period as long as the document stated the violation would cease on a certain date.
Councilmember DeCourcy commented that there was property on Angell Road that had multiple tenants and the City did not take action.
Councilmember Williams also supported the City exercising discretion with the ordinance if an end date is established.
Attorney Kuntz pointed out that the premises for option 3 is similar to the fact that if a speeder drives through the City, the City chooses not to pursue the speeder once they have left the City limits.
Mayor Park asked how the City should proceed regarding establishing the date the property must come into compliance and what is needed from the property owner.
Attorney Kuntz explained that the property owner could submit a letter to the City stating the date the property will become compliant; he noted there are unstated assumptions that this will not occur in the future.
Councilmember MacManus asked if the renters are aware of the situation and if they understand that no other persons can occupy the residence. Ms. Kennan responded yes and stated she asked them if they wished to attend the meeting with her this evening.
Mayor Park indicated the time period appears to be long; however, she noted the home is a unique situation and that it appears the tenants are protecting the property due to its isolation.
Ms. Keenan stated she will comply with whatever Council decides; she explained the lease ends on December 31, 2010. She explained that the renters had advised the project may continue for another six months and she would prefer to have the property rented than vacant for that six month period.
Councilmember Conant pointed out that council could not support her renewing the rental contract if the property would become non-compliant.
Mayor Park asked if there was any further discussion and there was no response.
Councilmember Conant moved to request the property owner to submit a letter to the City which stipulates that the non-compliant property rental will be remedied no later than December 31, 2010, subject to confirmation that the septic system has been inspected and approved by the Building Inspector to be sufficient to accommodate the number of persons residing at this location.
In discussion Council asked the Building Inspector to review the septic system and he agreed.
Councilmember Williams seconded the motion and offered a friendly amendment that there are no nuisance complaints for the property during this time period. Councilmember Conant accepted the amendment.
Motion carried. (5-0)
Ms. Keenan thanked the Council and questioned who should be the addressee on the letter. The City Attorney advised the letter should be addressed to the Mayor and Council and sent to the Mayor.
b. Consider Sign Ordinance Amendment and Scheduling a Public Hearing: Planner Smith stated she had revised the proposed ordinance based on Council discussion at the May meeting relating to real estate signs and size of signs in the Institutional District. She explained that the revisions included the definition, square footage and establishing a time limit for removal of real estate signs. She further advised that wall signs in the Institutional District are now prohibited and monument signs in this district are limited to 50 sq. ft. on each side of the sign.
Councilmember Conant questioned if electronically lighted signs are prohibited and the Planner responded yes.
The Planner advised that the existing signs would be grandfathered in until such time as they are replaced. She explained that if Council concurs with the revisions as presented, they should direct the Planning Commission to conduct a public hearing on the proposed revisions.
Mayor Park asked if there were any questions or comments and there was no response.
Councilmember Conant moved to direct the Planning Commission to conduct a public hearing on the proposed Sign Ordinance Amendments as presented this evening by the Planner, seconded by Councilmember DeCourcy and carried. (5-0)
c. Consider Resolution to Participate in the Dakota County Hazard Mitigation Planning Process: Planner Smith explained that Dakota County has begun a recurring update of their All-Hazard Mitigation and Disaster Plan that was adopted in 2006 and is requesting that all cities and townships in Dakota County participate in updating the plan. She stated that in order to officially document the City’s participate in this effort, the County has asked the Council to adopt the proposed resolution as part of the final plan that is submitted to FEMA.
Councilmember Conant asked for further explanation on what the plan involves.
Planner Smith explained that potential hazards include weather related incidents such as tornadoes or hazardous materials spills due to vehicular accidents; she advised that the plan must be in place to get funding from FEMA.
Chief Shaver advised that he had contacted Dakota County to determine if Sunfish Lake would fall under West St. Paul’s jurisdiction since the City contracts with the police department and he was advised that each City must adopt the resolution in order to receive funding. He advised that he will be attending the planning meetings and offered to represent Sunfish Lake’s interests.
Councilmember Conant questioned who would report to the Council on the planning process. Chief Shaver stated he oversees the process for West St. Paul and that he would insure a mitigation plan is well thought out for Sunfish Lake.
Councilmember Conant asked if the Chief would report to the Council from time-to-time on the progress and the Chief responded yes.
Mayor Park questioned how the public would be informed. Planner Smith explained that the drafted document would most likely be placed on the Dakota County website for public review.
Mayor Park asked if there were any further questions and there was no response.
Councilmember Williams moved to adopt Resolution No. 10-10 titled, RESOLUTION TO PARTICIPATE IN THE DAKOTA COUNTY HAZARD MITIGATION PLANNING PROCESS, seconded by Councilmember DeCourcy.
In discussion Councilmember MacManus questioned how the City receives the funding for mitigation. Planner Smith explained the funding is received from Federal grant monies.
Mayor Park asked for a vote on the motion.
Motion carried. (5-0)
Council thanked the Planner for her report.
7. INSPECTOR’S REPORTS:
a. Building Inspector: Inspector Wahl stated he had no inspections and that he issued four (4) permits in May.
Councilmember MacManus questioned how the City is advised when properties are sold and how the new property owners are advised of City regulations when they purchase property within the City.
Planner Smith indicated that Dakota County used to send reports to the City on property transfers; however, she has not received them for a couple of years. She noted that she is generally aware of properties that are for sale within the City. She indicated that she has a booklet relating to building/zoning code regulations that she forwards to applicants when they contact her regarding submitting an application for changes to their residence or land.
Henry Hovey explained that when he was Mayor he compiled a booklet for new residents and it was distributed by the Planner.
Mayor Park stated she has information on such items as well and septic system care and false alarms that she distributes to new residents when she is made aware of the change of ownership. She asked if the Planner would contact the County and ask if the City could be notified of property transfers.
Councilmember MacManus asked if the booklet included information on building permit requirements for structures. Mayor Park explained that it does not and that such information is only distributed when a new residence is constructed.
Councilmember Conant questioned how other cities are notified regarding sale of property.
Clerk Iago explained that other cities are usually notified when the seller contacts the City to change the billing information for sewer and water services; she stated that Sunfish Lake does not bill for either water or sewer since the majority of properties operate with septic systems and wells.
Planner Smith offered to check with Dakota County to determine if they have some type of notification process or if the information may be found on their website.
Councilmember Williams indicated that the City would most likely find information relating to the sale of property after the deed is recorded which could be several weeks after the sale.
Mayor Park commented that the Planner would check with the County and that a packet of information regarding regulations could be placed on the City website.
Council thanked the Building Inspector for his report.
- City Engineer: Salem Church Road Reconstruction: Engineer Hanson explained that he had conducted a “walk thru” of the street and a punch list was complied. He advised that the pavement was in excellent condition and that there were some washouts along the shoulders that will be corrected.
Musser Park: The Engineer advised he would discuss the concept layouts for a parking area an access to Musser Park and estimated project costs later on the agenda.
Bituminous Street Review: The Engineer stated the City streets were reviewed for maintenance needs and reviewed the following items:
- Acorn Drive was identified in the CIP to have crack sealing completed this year, however, there are no
transverse cracks to repair
- Aggregate shoulder repairs are need on most City streets and he will be preparing a project estimate
- Roadside swale work is needed along the east end of Salem Church Road to eliminate puddles; he advised
that minor work is needed to reshape the swales
- Windy Hill Road is showing significant signs of deterioration with block cracking, spalling and loss of
crown; this section of the street needs to be closely monitored
- The westerly end of Windy Hill Road is completely broken up and needs to be reconstructed; this area is at
the end of the right-of-way and the start of the private driveways. He indicated that in the future it would be
beneficial to obtain additional street easement to construct a small turnaround at the end of the right-of-way.
Fire Number Signs and Weight Limit Signs: Engineer Hanson advised he obtained quotes for 14 new fire number signs that were identified for replacement by the City Forester. He also included five weight limit signs for spring roadway restrictions in the quote to replace deteriorated sign and for inventory. He stated this matter would be discussed later on the agenda.
Public Works Activates Undertaken in the Month of May:
Street Sweeping: Engineer Hanson advised that sweeping was completed on all City streets.
Charlton Road: The Engineer stated that Charlton Road was graded on May 3rd and additional gravel placed at select locations.
Anticipated Engineering and Public Works Activities for the Month of June: The Engineer stated he would obtain quotes for shoulder repairs and roadside swale re-grading on City streets.
Council thanked the Engineer for his report. - CITY FORESTER: Forester Nayes reported that he issued five (5) Burning Permits in May. He sated there was a large Buckthorn burn conducted in Harmon Park and that he has seen a normal level of Dutch Elm disease in the City.
The Forester advised that a resident had requested a review of an Ash tree on his property and he found the tree was diseased, but it was not Emerald Ash Borer. He explained that there are two methods used for the treatment of Emerald Ash Borer; one method uses chemicals placed around the base of the tree; however, due to the sandy soil in the City, he would not recommend use of the chemicals. The other method uses an injection into the tree and he recommended the injection method for treatment of the disease.
Forester Nayes advised that wood ticks are very bad this year and that two dogs in the City have contracted Lymes Disease from deer ticks.
Councilmember DeCourcy advised that she has also contracted Lymes Disease.
The Forester commented that the Police Chief or Planner should be aware of the fact that if a natural disaster occurs in Sunfish Lake, such as trees blown down onto public roads during a storm, residents should contact the City Forester to remove the tree. He advised that during the Dakota County Hazardous Mitigation Planning process this information should be noted.
Councilmember Conant advised that there was a large pile of brush located at 2 Sunfish Lane and asked the Forester to determine if the pile constitutes a fire hazard. Forester Nayes stated he would contact the property owner and advise them to haul it away rather than burn the brush.
Councilmember Williams asked if there was a method to remove thistle. The Forester explained there are different methods for each type of thistle, however; he suggested placing a cotton glove treated with Round-up over a latex glove to remove the thistle.
Council thanked the Forester for his report. - PUBLIC SAFETY: Chief Shaver advised that the City of West St. Paul has hired a few more Police Reserve personnel and that Police Officers would be taking them on patrol to orient them on the City of Sunfish Lake.
The Chief advised the speed trailer has been taken out of storage and if the Council wishes to have in placed it a traffic speeding problem area, they should call the police department. He further advised that the West St. Paul Crime Prevention Specialist will be working with the Sunfish lake Website Manager to place public safety information on the City website.
Mayor Park asked the Chief to explain the Crime Location Map used on the West St. Paul website.
The Chief explained that the City of West St. Paul receives calls from residents or prospective buyers regarding the safety of neighborhoods within the City; he advised that the maps are used to show specific types of crimes in areas throughout the City; the map may be of interest to Sunfish Lake, although in his opinion there is not much crime within the City.
Councilmember DeCourcy asked if listing burning permits on the police report is a new item. Chief Shaver responded no and explained that burning issues are referred to the Forester to determine if a permit has been issued which is similar to referring construction complaints or questions to the Building Inspector.
Council thanked Chief Shaver for his report.
7. NEW/OTHER BUSINESS:
a. Discuss Obtaining Public Access to Musser Park from Salem Church Road: Engineer Hanson explained that he had prepared four (4) concept plans for parking areas near Musser Park; three of the plans are for on-site parking showing four, six and eight stalls. He advised that the on-site parking areas are proposed to be constructed utilizing a grass-pave 2 system (reinforced turf) to allow the area to look natural. The boundary of the parking area would be delineated using boulders appropriately spaced to restrict vehicles from driving into the park. He suggested the use of one artificial boulder that can be removed to allow access for a maintenance vehicle. He reviewed the estimated project cost for each parking lot area as follows: four stalls at $20,300; six stalls at $24,700 and eight stalls at $30,000.
The Engineer stated that he included a four-stall parking area which consists of parallel parking along Salem Church Road; the estimated project cost for the parallel parking area is $12,900. He advised the benefit for this is that it minimizes the need to utilize the park property since it appears it may be located within the existing right-of-way; however; he stated his concerns with this type of parking area is the possible impact to the reinforced turf by a snow plow or drainage from the roadway. He advised that the outside edge of this area would also be defined by boulders or the design could change based upon whether or not the inslope is steep enough to discourage vehicle access.
Mayor Park asked if the Land Trust would share the costs or if donations could be used for the project. Engineer Hanson responded that he is not familiar with the Land Trust agreement.
Attorney Kuntz commented that it is his understanding the Land Trust has to review the proposal, but they would not participate in the cost sharing; however, he believes that other funding sources could be utilized.
Councilmember DeCourcy asked if there had been any requests for parking in this area from residents. Engineer Hanson responded that he is not aware of any requests; he indicated the issue of parking arose during the bench dedication for the former clerk and also during the Buckthorn Bust held at the park.
Councilmember DeCourcy indicated she could support Option 4, the parallel parking area, since it does not appear that the park receives excessive use.
Councilmember Williams agreed that the parallel parking option would be the most modest solution.
Councilmember Conant also agreed and stated it would be his preference to have parking closer to the roadway to eliminate problems with persons using the parking area for mischievous purposes versus tucked into the park where it is not as visible to police patrols.
Councilmember Williams agreed and pointed out that the Acorn Drive cul-de-sac has had public safety issues.
Councilmember MacManus commented that it appears as if all the proposed parking areas are close to the roadway and visible.
Mayor Park asked if the parallel parking area could be staked during the winter months to alert snow plow drivers..
Engineer Hanson responded yes; however, he pointed out that the snow plows may still damage the area.
Forester Nayes asked if a drive lane for accessing the park to perform mowing could be included if the parallel parking area was constructed. Councilmember Williams agreed that access for maintenance vehicles should be a priority.
Councilmember MacManus stated she is unsure if she is ready to make a decision this evening.
There was discussion relating to what type of events could be held at the park such as Arbor Day.
Commissioner Wahlstrom stated she has seen the grass and grid system installed in parking areas in Europe and she questioned if parked vehicles would damage the turf.
Engineer Hanson stated that excessive use of the system or heavy vehicles could damage the turf; however, it does not appear that this area would have excessive use.
Councilmember DeCourcy moved to approve the parallel parking (Option 4) for installation at Musser Park.
Motion failed for lack of second.
In discussion, Councilmember MacManus stated she would support more parking if there is a need and Councilmember Conant stated that in his opinion the access for maintenance vehicles should be determined prior to making a decision.
Mayor Park suggested Council may wish to have an on-site review of the area proposed for parking prior to taking formal action on the matter.
Engineer Hanson pointed out that the City must have permission from the Land Trust prior to installation of the parking stall areas; he offered to stake the parking stall area with the number of stalls Council deems appropriate so they may visualize the proposed parking area. He also suggested a letter could be submitted to the Land Trust to determine their reaction to the parking stall area. He pointed out that if the Land Trust determines the parking stalls are not viable, the parallel parking area in the right-of-way could be used as a back-up plan. He commented that due to the layout of Salem Church Road there may be sufficient right-of-way to place the parallel parking adjacent to the road without obtaining permission from the Land Trust.
Councilmember Conant asked if the access road for mowing would be included and the Engineer responded that it could be incorporated into the plan.
Forester Nayes suggested a chain or gate could be installed to prohibit access on the road used for maintenance vehicles.
Councilmember MacManus stated she would prefer that the area not have a chain or gate.
Attorney Kuntz explained that State Statutes require any Capital Improvement Projects proposed by the City must be reviewed by the Planning Commission to determine if they are compatible with the Comprehensive Plan, unless there is a 4/5ths vote by Council or it is determined that the project has no relation to the Comprehensive Plan.
Councilmember Conant stated he supports sending the proposed parking stall area information to the Land Trust to keep the matter moving forward. Council concurred.
Engineer Hanson requested that Council determine which parking stall layout they prefer so that the concept plan could be sent with the letter to the Land Trust; he noted that the concept plan may be changed after Council views staked area.
Councilmember Conant stated he would not support more than six stalls. Councilmember Williams agreed
Councilmember MacManus questioned if the City has the funds to complete the project. Treasurer Blair pointed out that there is $30,000 in the Reserve Fund.
Clerk Iago indicated that there may be grant monies available for the project.
Attorney Kuntz suggested that the engineer stake out six parking stalls in the area and also explore the amount of right-of-way available for the alternative parallel parking area. He recalled that Mr. Kampmeyer had a survey of the area submitted when he made application for a recent plat and suggested the engineer contact Mr. Kampmeyer as he may have information on the right-of-way for Salem Church Road.
Mayor Park asked if there was any further discussion and there was no response.
b. Request Authorization to Purchase Information Signs – Fire and Road Postings: Engineer Hanson stated he had solicited quotes for 14 new fire safety signs, as requested by the City Forester, and 5 weight limit load signs. He explained that three quotes were solicited but only two companies responded. He stated it is his understanding that cost of the fire safety signs is reimbursed by residents.
Councilmember Conant asked if the five weight limit load signs include one for posting on Sunfish Lane and the Engineer responded yes.
Mayor Park asked if there was any further discussion and there was no response.
Councilmember Williams moved to authorize the expenditure of $645.30 from the Street Sign budget to purchase 14 new fire signs and 5 weight limit signs from Safety Signs, seconded by Councilmember Conant and carried. (5-0)
c. Discuss Compensation for Council: Mayor Park explained the matter of compensation for Council had been on her mind for a number of years and that she had been contacted by Councilmember Conant questioning if compensation had ever been discussed. She stated that she had contacted neighboring cities to determine salaries for their elected officials and found the following: City of Lilydale, population 800, annual compensation for the Mayor is $4,500 and Council is $3,000; City of Mendota, population 190, annual compensation for the Mayor is $1,200 and Council is $900
Mayor Park noted that the Mayor of Mendota had declined to receive a salary and some members of their Council also declined a salary due to budget constraints.
Councilmember Conant pointed out that the since his election he has found it is more work than he envisioned and that elected officials provide a valuable service to the community. He distributed a proposal for compensation for the Mayor at $150 per meeting and Council at $100 per meeting; he also recommended that the Planning Commissioners receive $50 per meeting. He explained that in his opinion the service of these individuals should be recognized with some type of compensation and that the figures are more symbolic than substantial. He also noted that a small per diem for Planning Commissioners may encourage their attendance and that the total cost is clearly affordable. He noted that the compensation would not be given to the current Council until they are re-elected and would be provided for newly-elected officials.
Mayor Park indicated this is a preliminary discussion and no action would be required this evening.
Councilmember Williams explained that he has mixed feelings on the subject and noted that as an elected official he also serves on other committees such as the Watershed Management and that the Mayor also serves on County committees, which is time consuming. He stated that in the past he has supported the funding for elected officials to attend conferences, seminars and other meetings that provide educational benefits. He indicated that he would prefer funds be allocated for continuing education versus a per diem for elected officials and the commissioners.
Councilmember MacManus stated she believes it adds credibility to the position and pointed out that elected officials have the option to refuse the salary.
Mayor Park stated she also has mixed feelings regarding taking a salary when others volunteer their services such as the website manager and the Sunfish Lake Quarterly editor. She explained that she wished to bring the matter forward for discussion and that she believes that Sunfish Lake may be the only small city that does not have a compensation payment for elected officials.
Councilmember DeCourcy pointed out that she had to contribute personal funds to cover the costs of the annual Christmas Party. Attorney Kuntz explained that the City cannot contribute to the party due to Statutes regulating those types of contributions.
Mayor Park asked if it would attract more candidates to file for office.
Councilmember Williams indicated he did not believe it would attract more candidates and that in his opinion it would be more symbolic to show compensation for service.
Mayor Park questioned if the citizens would have an opinion.
Mike Hovey pointed out that the City has always had the tradition of not being paid and he does not support the idea of breaking that tradition.
Henry Hovey stated he was a resident for a number of years and although he has now moved to Wisconsin, he still drives to the City every month to attend the meetings. He indicated that the residents appreciate the service the elected officials provide and that anyone elected or appointed should appreciate being given the opportunity to serve the City.
Planning Commissioner Wahlstrom stated she would gladly serve on the commission for nothing and she would prefer that compensation be given to the website manager and newsletter editor.
Councilmember Conant questioned if any research had been done regarding the history of other cities compensation.
Mayor Park suggested that Councilmember Conant be in charge of researching the matter through the League of Minnesota Cities and report back to Council.
Attorney Kuntz pointed out that State Statutes provide that Council can determine its compensation by ordinance and that if Council wishes to change the ordinance to include compensation, it cannot take effect until after the next succeeding municipal election; therefore, Council should attempt to reach an agreement on the matter by their October meeting prior to the upcoming election.
Mayor Park asked if there was any further discussion and there was no response.
d. Other: Councilmember Williams asked if it would be possible to place a sign at Acorn Drive stating “Bus Turn Around – No Parking”.
Engineer Hanson explained that the area in question may be under the jurisdiction of Inver Grove Heights; he offered to contact the City of Inver Grove Heights regarding the sign.
Engineer Hanson also advised he would stake Musser Park on Friday to show Council the parking area with lathe and bright orange paint. Councilmember DeCourcy asked if he would also stake the right-of-way area and he responded yes.
Mayor Park pointed out that Dakota County Board plans to discuss and vote on the proposed interchange for the area near Delaware/I-494 at their meeting held in the middle of July. She explained that Brian Sorensen plans to make a presentation to the City of Mendota Heights at their meeting on July 6, which is the same night as the Sunfish Lake Council meeting. She suggested that the Sunfish Lake Council could reschedule the time of the July meeting to accommodate attendance at the Mendota Heights meeting.
Councilmember Conant pointed out that it may be a lengthy discussion at the Mendota Heights meeting and therefore it may not work to delay the Sunfish Lake meeting.
Attorney Kuntz agreed that it is usually hard to leave a meeting once it is in progress; he suggested scheduling the Sunfish Lake meeting earlier and then adjourning to the Mendota Heights meeting.
Councilmember Conant asked if the meeting change must be published and the Attorney responded that it only needs to be posted at the Church.
Mayor Park stated she would contact Mendota Heights to determine the starting time of their meeting and when the matter would be discussed on the agenda.
Council concurred to direct the Clerk to post a notice rescheduling the Sunfish Lake Regular City Council meeting on July 6, 2010 to 6:00 p.m. and to post a notice of a Special Joint Meeting with the City of Mendota Heights at 7:00 p.m. at the Mendota Heights City Hall.
Mayor Park asked if there was any further business and there was no response.
9. ADJOURN: Councilmember MacManus moved for adjournment at 9:00 p.m., seconded by Councilmember DeCourcy and carried. (5-0)
______________________ ___________________________
Molly Park, Mayor Catherine Iago, City Clerk
We are a small community proud of our heritage and committed to the preservation of our pristine, rural character. We cherish our privacy, yet know we are part of a thriving Dakota County and the greater Twin Cities metropolitan area. With these partnerships in mind, we strive to preserve that unique spirit which is Sunfish Lake, Minnesota.