09-08-1992 CCMMINUTES
REGULAR MEETING - HUTCHINSON CITY COUNCIL
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 1992
1. The meeting was called to order at 7:30 P.M. by Mayor Ackland.
The following were present: Mayor Paul L. Ackland, Councilmen
Craig Lenz, John Mlinar, Marlin Torgerson and Don Erickson.
Also present: City Administrator Gary D. Plotz, City Engineer
John Rodeberg, Finance Director Kenneth B. Merrill, and City
Attorney G. Barry Anderson.
2. INVOCATION
There was no pastor present for the invocation.
3. MINUTES
The minutes of the regular meeting of August 25, 1992, bid
openings of August 25, 1992 and August 28, 1992 were approved
as distributed.
4. ROUTINE ITEMS
(a) REPORTS OF OFFICERS, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
1. BUILDING OFFICIAL'S REPORT - AUGUST 1992
2. POLICE COMMISSION MINUTES OF JUNE 29 & AUGUST 5, 1992
3. LIBRARY BOARD MINUTES OF JULY 6, 1992
4. HUTCHINSON HOUSING & REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY MINUTES
OF JULY 14, 1992
5. PARKS & RECREATION BOARD MINUTES OF JULY 29, 1992
The motion was made by Councilman Lenz, seconded by Coun-
cilman Mlinar and unanimously carried, to order the
report and minutes filed.
5. PUBLIC HEARING - 8:00 P.M.
(a) LETTING NO. 3, PROJECT 92-05 - ADAMS STREET (T.H. 22) AND
FAIR AVENUE
Mayor Ackland called the hearing to order at 8:00 P.M.
and read the Public Hearing Notice for Adams Street.
Engineer Rodeberg reported there were some problems with
the sanitary sewer and water lines under Adams Street.
They were old and needed to be replaced. A consultant
was working on the project design; however, there were
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - SEPTEMBER 8, 1992
several issues that needed to be resolved. The City
Engineer pointed out that the existing right-of-way with
a narrow width, the numerous large trees directly behind
the existing curb and gutter, and MN/DOT's request to
construct center turn lanes made it impossible to include
parking in the design without removing trees and pur-
chasing additional right-of-way. The City would also
need to acquire temporary easements for sidewalk con-
struction and additional right-of-way at street inter-
sections to meet MN/DOT design requirements. Also,
MN/DOT can not pay for the cost of parking lanes.
Therefore, it would increase the City's share of the
project cost and result in higher assessment rates.
These issues have delayed the project schedule to 1993,
with bids to be taken this winter and construction to
begin in spring 1993.
Gwen Wichman, 537 Adams Street SE, asked where company
would park their cars. She also inquired about the one-
way alley on Jefferson and Adams and wondered if 3M had
to use Adams.
Otto Rettig, 516 Adams Street SE, stated he could look
out his window to the north and east, and he never saw
any problem with turn lanes. There was no traffic build
up and no need for left turn lanes on Fifth or Adams.
Due to the construction work on Main Street, there was
heavy traffic on Adams.
Engineer Rodeberg stated the dilemma was to redo the
street so that it met the needs of the people. The pur-
pose of the hearing was to seek the residents' preference
and to select the best benefit for everybody affected.
An unidentified gentleman predicted the property value
would go down and the cost would go up if there was no
parking in front of the houses.
The City Engineer responded there were alleys where peo-
ple could park. He stated the travel downtown was con-
centrated, and Adams was not a residential street. There
needed to be a balance between parking and business loca-
tions.
Lucille Ulrich, 205 Adams Street SE, inquired what would
occur on Second and Adams where trucks cannot make the
curves. She asked about plans for pedestrian striping on
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CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - SEPTEMBER 8, 1992
Fifth and Adams and stated it was dangerous to cross the
street at this intersection. Some years ago she sub-
mitted a petition to the State regarding the traffic
situation, and they denied any action being merited.
Engineer Rodeberg commented the City may need to purchase
a small piece of property at Washington, Second, Fifth
and Fair Avenues to round out the curve to make it easier
for trucks to turn. He also stated installation of a
stop -and -go light cost $80,000, but could not be install-
ed without MN/DOT's permission, based on traffic warrants
being met.
The Manager of Minne-Mine Credit Union stated he relied
heavily on back street parking. Another concern was the
closed parking lot. Customers who come through the
drive-in window area need to exit onto the street. He
inquired about the construction plan.
Don Martin, 725 Goebel Street, (owner of property at 336
Adams Street SE), asked what percent of the people along
the proposed street had an alleyway where they could
park. He was in favor of no parking and saving money.
The City Engineer responded the blocks north of Fifth
Avenue were short, and there was parking space on side
streets.
Robert Gausman, 561 Adams Street SE, preferred that it go
back to a city street with no turn lanes and no parking
in order to save the trees.
The City Engineer stated the turn lanes were based on
traffic levels, and Adams Street would be a state aid
highway after T.H. 22 was rerouted. The MN/DOT design
guidelines would be about the same. Engineer Rodeberg
commented he preferred to see some stop lights, but traf-
fic warrants are not currently met.
Mayor Ackland stated that a committee was working on a
plan to by-pass Hwy. 22 south of town. It would be
several years, however, before the proposal would be
considered.
Gwen Wichman questioned which way the decision would go
if the proposal benefitted the businesses but the
residents did not want it. She had heard that Adams and
Jefferson might become one-way streets.
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CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - SEPTEMBER 8, 1992
Richard Larson, 640 Adams Street SE, commented he had a
small business located on the end of Adams. He was
concerned about the scrap iron lying at the end of the
alley.
Bernett Pierce, 216 Adams Street SE, stated she was in
favor of no parking on Adams.
Otto Rettig said he could not understand not being able
to park in front of his house after living there 37
years. He did not have a driveway to pull into. He com-
mented the block of Fifth and Fair would need special
consideration because of the businesses located along the
street. Mr. Rettig observed the trees located on the
east side of the street were further back than the ones
on the west side.
Donna Brink, 231 Adams Street SE, asked if things changed
from year to year since it appeared the plans were chang-
ing.
Mayor Ackland responded that it was the opinion of the
present City Council that trees should be preserved when-
ever possible.
Dwayne Brink inquired if the turn lanes would increase
the flow of traffic. He favored no parking and saving
the trees.
Engineer Rodeberg reported that safety was the main rea-
son for the turn lanes. He stated another hearing would
be held regarding this proposed project after the project
was bid.
James Muetzel, 607 Adams Street SE, commented he favored
no parking. If other residents want parking, they can
pay for it themselves.
The motion was made by Councilman Torgerson, seconded by
Councilman Lenz and unanimously carried, to close the
hearing at 8:55 P.M.
6. COMMUNICATIONS, REQUESTS AND PETITIONS
(a) CONSIDERATION OF REQUEST FOR OUT-OF-STATE TRAVEL BY
MARION GRAHAM
Councilman Erickson moved to approve, seconded by Coun-
cilman Torgerson and unanimously carried.
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CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - SEPTEMBER 8, 1992
(b) UPDATE ON OLD WASTEWATER TREATMENT FACILITY
Engineer Rodeberg reported on the proposed use for the
old wastewater treatment facility. Following discussion,
it was the consensus of the Council to wait until spring
before taking any action.
(c) DISCUSSION OF HUTCHINSON CITY HALL/MUNICIPAL CENTER
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
Following discussion of the proposed plans, Councilman
Erickson moved to approve the Request for Proposals for
Architectural and Engineering Services Related to Con-
struction of the Hutchinson City Hall/Municipal Center.
Motion seconded by Councilman Mlinar and unanimously car-
ried.
(d) DISCUSSION OF VACATED ALLEY BEHIND COAST TO COAST STORE
Al Kramer, owner of the Coast to Coast Store, commented
on delivery truck problems encountered with the vacation
of the alley behind his business. He and Erickson's had
discussed the issue, but no agreement had been reached.
Following discussion, it was the consensus of the Council
to place this item on the September 22 Council agenda.
7. RESOLUTIONS AND ORDINANCES
(a) RESOLUTION NO. 9790 - RESOLUTION FOR PURCHASE
The motion was made by Councilman Lenz, seconded by Coun-
cilman Torgerson and unanimously carried, to waive read-
ing and adopt.
(b) RESOLUTION NO. 9791 - RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING LOCATION
FOR TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICE
The motion was made by Councilman Erickson, seconded by
Councilman Mlinar and unanimously carried, to waive read-
ing and adopt.
(c) RESOLUTION NO. 9795 - RESOLUTION SETTING INTEREST RATE
FOR 1992 ADOPTED ASSESSMENT ROLLS
The motion was made by Councilman Mlinar, seconded by
Councilman Lenz and unanimously carried, to waive read-
ing and adopt.
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CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - SEPTEMBER 8, 1992
(d) ORDINANCE NO. 92-66 - AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ZONING
ORDINANCE NO. 464, SECTIONS 6.07, 8.03, 8.04, 8.05 AND
8.12
The motion was made by Councilman Torgerson, seconded by
Councilman Lenz and unanimously carried, to waive second
reading and adopt.
(e) ORDINANCE NO. 92-67 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
HUTCHINSON, MINNESOTA, CHANGING THE BOUNDARIES OF
ELECTION PRECINCTS AND ADOPTING BY REFERENCE CITY CODE
CHAPTER 1 AND SECTION 2.99 WHICH, AMONG OTHER THINGS,
CONTAIN PENALTY PROVISIONS
The motion was made by Councilman Torgerson, seconded by
Councilman Mlinar and unanimously carried, to waive first
reading and set second reading for September 22, 1992.
8. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
9. NEW BUSINESS
(a) CONSIDERATION OF ESTABLISHING TIME, DATE, AND LOCATION
FOR PUBLIC HEARING ON CITY'S 1993 BUDGET AND TAX LEVY
Following discussion, Councilman Torgerson moved to hold
a public hearing on December 14, 1992, at 7:00 P.M. in
the City Hall Council Chambers. Motion seconded by Coun-
cilman Lenz and unanimously carried.
(b) CONSIDERATION OF CROSS EASEMENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN SHOPKO
STORES, INC. AND CITY OF HUTCHINSON (PHASE I - HUTCHINSON
DOWNTOWN REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT) (DEFERRED AUG. 25, 1992)
Following discussion, the motion was made by Councilman
Mlinar, seconded by Councilman Lenz and unanimously car-
ried, to defer to the first October meeting.
(c) CONSIDERATION OF SANITARY SEWER CLEANING AND FLUSHING
CONTRACT WITH CITY OF LITCHFIELD
Following discussion, Councilman Mlinar moved to approve
entering into contract. Motion seconded by Councilman
Erickson and unanimously carried.
(d) CONSIDERATION OF AWARDING BID FOR LETTING NO. 11, PROJECT
NO. 92-17 (CROW RIVER PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE)
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CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - SEPTEMBER 8, 1992
Following discussion, Councilman Erickson moved to
approve awarding contract to Structural Specialties in
the amount of $31,584.35 and to waive reading and adopt
Resolution No. 9793. Motion seconded by Councilman Tor-
gerson and unanimously carried.
(e) CONSIDERATION OF AWARDING BID FOR LETTING NO. 14, PROJECT
NO. 92-20 (DOWNTOWN LIFE SAFETY IMPROVEMENT)
Following discussion, Councilman Torgerson moved to
approve awarding contract to low bidder, Quade Electric,
in the amount of $71,026.50 and to waive reading and
adopt Resolution No. 9794.
(f) CONSIDERATION OF REVISED DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS
ENTERPRISE PROGRAM FOR HUTCHINSON MUNICIPAL AIRPORT
Following discussion, Councilman Mlinar moved to approve
and to waive reading and adopt Resolution No. 9792. Mo-
tion seconded by Councilman Lenz and unanimously carried.
(g) CONSIDERATION OF FRANCHISE FOR 101 PARK PLACE DUMPSTER
LOCATION
Following discussion, Councilman Mlinar moved to table to
the next Council meeting. Motion seconded by Councilman
Torgerson and unanimously carried.
(h) CONSIDERATION OF MN/DOT PROGRAM TO REALIGN T.H. 22
Following discussion, Councilman Torgerson moved to
approve and to waive reading and adopt Resolution No.
9797. Motion seconded by Councilman Erickson and unani-
mously carried.
(i) CONSIDERATION OF PLAZA HEIGHTS ASSESSMENT AGREEMENT WITH
FRANK FAY/NORWEST BANK
Engineer Rodeberg reported on the two Agreement of
Assessment Annulment And Waiver of Irregularity And
Appeal of Reassessment for the two sets of property owned
by Norwest Bank Minnesota.
Following discussion, Councilman Torgerson moved to
approve and enter into assessment agreement for PID No.
12-116-30-02-0040 (19 acre parcel). Motion seconded by
Councilman Lenz and unanimously carried.
The motion was made by Councilman Torgerson, seconded by
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CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - SEPTEMBER 8, 1992
Councilman Mlinar and unanimously carried, to approve and
enter into assessment agreement for PID No. 12-116-30-02
(22 platted lots in Plaza Heights).
(j) CONSIDERATION OF MAC'S BLUFF ASSESSMENT AGREEMENT WITH
GARY HASSE
The motion was made by Councilman Mlinar to defer to Sep-
tember 22 Council meeting. Motion seconded by Councilman
Torgerson and unanimously carried.
(k) CONSIDERATION OF REVISED POLICE DEPARTMENT POLICIES
Following discussion, Councilman Mlinar moved to approve
the revised policies. Motion seconded by Councilman Lenz
and unanimously carried.
(1) CONSIDERATION OF HEALTH AND DENTAL INSURANCE RENEWALS
Agent Dennis Potter and Consultant Mark Flaten presented
the proposed changes for health and dental insurance.
Councilman Torgerson moved to approve the renewal rates
effective January 1, 1993. Motion seconded by Councilman
Mlinar. After discussion, Councilman Torgerson withdrew
his motion, and Councilman Mlinar withdrew his second.
The motion was made by Councilman Mlinar to hold a City
Employee Committee meeting to review the changes before
a decision was made on insurance renewals. Motion sec-
onded by Councilman Torgerson and unanimously carried.
(m) CONSIDERATION OF SIDEWALK ON CITY PROPERTY ALONG SOUTH
EDGE OF GIRL SCOUT PARK
It was reported that Fahey Sales Agency, Inc. had offered
to pay for the installation of a sidewalk on city prop-
erty along the south edge of Girl Scout Park which was
adjacent to its parking lot.
Following discussion, Councilman Torgerson moved to ap-
prove, contingent that Fahey Sales Agency would maintain
the sidewalk located on city property. Motion seconded
by Councilman Lenz and unanimously carried.
(n) CONSIDERATION OF ESTABLISHING PRELIMINARY 1993 TAX LEVY
Following discussion, Councilman Erickson moved to ap-
prove an additional $40,000 for the general fund and to
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CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - SEPTEMBER 8, 1992
waive reading and adopt Resolution No. 9796 setting the
preliminary 1993 tax levy at $3,201,407. Motion seconded
by Councilman Mlinar and unanimously carried.
(o) CONSIDERATION OF PAYMENT FOR BUILDING, RELOCATION AND
OTHER EXPENSES FOR SIMONSON'S LUMBER OPTION, PHASE II
During discussion, it was recommended the Acquisition
Committee meet to review the issue and request Attorney
Ronald McGraw to report on the relocation costs.
The motion was made by Councilman Mlinar to defer, sec-
onded by Councilman Torgerson and unanimously carried.
10. MISCELLANEOUS
(a) COMMUNICATIONS FROM CITY ADMINISTRATOR
Administrator Plotz reported on the blueprints for the
new liquor store and the selection of interior colors.
A meeting will be held tomorrow with Witte Sanitation and
Aagard West to negotiate for interim refuse hauling dur-
ing the month of October.
The McLeod County Emergency Services Director informed
the City Administrator that the City of Hutchinson would
receive $30,000 from federal funding for the recent storm
cleanup.
(b) COMMUNICATIONS FROM COUNCILMAN JOHN MLINAR
Councilman Mlinar recommended a Resolution of Commenda-
tion be presented to the Police Department and Fire
Department for their superb handling of the hostage situ-
ation last Friday.
The motion was made by Councilman Mlinar, seconded by
Councilman Torgerson and unanimously carried, to adopt a
Resolution.
(c) COMMUNICATIONS FROM COUNCILMAN MARLIN TORGERSON
Councilman Torgerson stated several people had requested
lighting along the Luce Line walking trail since it was
dark along the river and in the wooded area.
(d) COMMUNICATIONS FROM COUNCILMAN DON ERICKSON
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CITY COUNCIL MINUTES - SEPTEMBER 8, 1992
Councilman Erickson expressed concern regarding traffic
control on Main Street for the Arts and Crafts Festival.
The City Administrator will discuss with the Police Chief
having the area patrolled.
(e) COMMUNICATIONS FROM DIRECTOR OF ENGINEERING
Director Rodeberg reported the street lights along Main
Street would be painted the latter part of the month. He
also stated there was a new state mandate which would in-
crease the city budget by $5-6,000.
11. CLAIMS, APPROPRIATIONS AND CONTRACT PAYMENTS
(a) VERIFIED CLAIMS
The motion was made by Councilman Lenz, seconded by Coun-
cilman Mlinar and unanimously carried, to approve the
claims and authorize payment from appropriate funds.
12. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at
10:15 P.M.
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