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01-11-1977 CCMr MINUTES REGULAR MEETING - HUTCHINSON CITY COUNCIL TUESDAY, JANUARY 11, 1977 1. CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order by Mayor Black at 7:35 P.M. with the follow- ing members present: Aldermen Westlund, Haag, and K. Peterson in addition to Mayor Black. Members absent were: Alderman B. Peterson. Also present were: City Engineer Priebe, Community Development Director Pauley, and City Attorney Schantzen. 2. INVOCATION Due to the absence of a pastor to give the invocation, Mayor Black called for a time of silent prayer. 3. MINUTES On motion by Alderman Westlund, seconded by Alderman Haag, the minutes of the Regular Meeting of December 28, 1976 and Special Meeting of January 4, 1977 were unanimously approved. 4. PUBLIC HEARING None 5. COMMUNICATIONS, REQUESTS AND PETITIONS (a) CONSIDERATION OF REQUEST OF MARK FRATZKE TO MOVE HOUSE INTO CITY City Engineer Priebe gave a brief report on the present location of the house and where it is to be moved within the city limits. Pic- tures of the building were distributed for review. After discussion, it was moved by Alderman Haag, seconded by Alderman K. Peterson, to approve the request as recommended by the Building In- spector. Motion carried unanimously. 6. RESOLUTIONS AND ORDINANCES (a) ORDINANCE N0. 26/76 - AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 464 CONCERN- ING PLANNED DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT REQUIREMENTS City Attorney Schantzen requested that Ordinance No. 26/76 be deferred for consideration until the next Council meeting. Request was granted. (b) ORDINANCE NO. 28/76 - AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 464 CONCERN- ING ZONING REGULATIONS IN THE CITY OF HUTCHINSON AND THE OFFICIAL ZON- ING MAP Council Minutes, January 11, 1977 Community Development Director Pauley reported that a correction should be made in the copy to read "Block 1" instead of Block 10. With the above correction, it was moved by Alderman Westlund, seconded by Alderman K. Peterson, to waive second reading and adopt Ordinance No. 522 entitled An Ordinance Amending Ordinance No. 464 Concerning Zoning Regulations in the City of Hutchinson and the Official Zoning Map. Motion carried unanimously. (c) ORDINANCE NO. 27/76 - AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 464 CONCERN- ING CONDITIONAL USE REQUIREMENT FOR COMMERCIAL DISTRICT It was requested by City Attorney Schantzen to defer consideration of Ordinance No. 27/76 until the next Council meeting. Request was granted. (d) RESOLUTION NO. 5870 - ACCEPTING $50,000 FROM THE HUTCHINSON UTILITIES COMMISSION It was moved by Alderman Haag, seconded by Alderman K. Peterson, to waive reading and adopt Resolution No. 5870 entitled Accepting $50,000 from the Hutchinson Utilities Commission. Motion carried unanimously. (e) RESOLUTION NO. 5873 - TRANSFERRING $15,000 FROM LIQUOR STORE TO GENERAL FUND Alderman Westlund moved to waive reading and adopt Resolution No. 5873 entitled Transferring $15,000 from Liquor Store to General Fund. Sec- onded by Alderman Haag, the motion carried unanimously. (f) RESOLUTION NO. 5875 - RESOLUTION RETRACTING RESOLUTION NO. 5871 Mayor Black explained that inasmuch as Gary D. Plotz had been hired as Administrative Assistant, Clerk -Treasurer effective January 4, 1977, the Resolution No. 5871 authorizing Joleen R. Runke, Assistant City Clerk, to sign Medical Revenue Bonds has been retracted. He further stated that a resolution should be adopted authorizing Gary D. Plotz to execute Medical Revenue Bonds. It was moved by Alderman Westlund, seconded by Alderman Haag, to waive reading and adopt Resolution No. 5875 entitled Resolution Retracting Resolution No. 5871. Motion carried unanimously. It was moved by Alderman Westlund, seconded by Alderman K. Peterson, to authorize Gary D. Plotz to execute Medical Revenue Bonds and to adopt Resolution No. 58883 entitled Authorization to Execute Medical Revenue Bonds. Motion carried unanimously. (g) RESOLUTION NO. 5876 - RESOLUTION ADOPTING POSITION CLASSIFICATION ASSIGNMENT TABLE EFFECTIVE JANUARY 9, 1977 -2- I Council Minutes, January 11, 1977 Mayor Black pointed out some of the changes that had been made in the Position Classification Assignment Table. After discussion, it was moved by Alderman Westlund, seconded by Alder- man K. Peterson, to waive reading and adopt Resolution No. 5876 entitled Resolution Adopting Position Classification Assignment Table Effective January 9, 1977. Motion carried unanimously. (h) RESOLUTION NO. 5879 - RESOLUTION APPROVING SECURITIES FOR COLLATERAL FROM CITIZENS BANK AND TRUST CO. OF HUTCHINSON AS SPONSORING AGENCY OF THE HUTCHINSON UTILITIES COMMISSION After discussion, it was moved by Alderman Westlund, seconded by Alder- man K. Peterson, to waive reading and adopt Resolution No. 5879 entitled Resolution Approving Securities for Collateral from Citizens Bank and Trust Co. of Hutchinson as Sponsoring Agency of the Hutchinson Utilities Commission. Motion carried unanimously. (i) RESOLUTION NO. 5880 - RESOLUTION APPROVING SECURITIES FOR COLLATERAL FROM CITIZENS BANK AND TRUST CO. OF HUTCHINSON, MINNESOTA After discussion, it was moved by Alderman Haag, seconded by Alderman K. Peterson, to waive reading and adopt Resolution No. 5880 entitled Resolution Approving Securities for Collateral from Citizens Bank and Trust Co. of Hutchinson, Minnesota. Motion carried unanimously. (j) RESOLUTION NO. 5881 - RESOLUTION APPROVING SECURITIES FOR COLLATERAL FROM FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF HUTCHINSON AS SPONSORING AGENCY OF THE HUTCHINSON UTILITIES COMMISSION After discussion, it was moved by Alderman Westlund, seconded by Alder- man Haag, to waive reading and adopt Resolution No. 5881 entitled Reso- lution Approving Securities for Collateral from First National Bank of Hutchinson as Sponsoring Agency of the Hutchinson Utilities Commission. Motion carried unanimously. (k) RESOLUTION NO. 5882 - RESOLUTION APPROVING SECURITIES FOR COLLATERAL FROM FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF HUTCHINSON, MINNESOTA After discussion, it was moved by Alderman K. Peterson, seconded by Alderman Haag, to waive reading and adopt Resolution No. 5882 entitled Resolution Approving Securities for Collateral from First National Bank of Hutchinson, Minnesota. Motion carried unanimously. 7. REPORTS OF OFFICERS, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS (a) BUILDING OFFICIAL`S MONTHLY REPORT - DECEMBER 1976 There being no discussion, the minutes were ordered by the Mayor received for filing. -3- Council Minutes, January 11, 1977 (b) MONTHLY FINANCIAL REPORT - DECEMBER 1976 Since the December Financial Report was not ready for review, it will be presented at the next Council meeting. (c) MINUTES OF COMMUNITY CENTER BOARD DATED DECEMBER 18, 1976 Alderman Westlund reported that most of the construction work on the Community Center has stopped due to the weather, but it should resume in March. The minutes were ordered by the Mayor received for filing. 8. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None 9. NEW BUSINESS (a) PRESENTATION BY THE REV. JOHN LONGLEY OF COMMUNITY SERVICES BOARD FOR THE ELDERLY REGARDING HANDICAPPED RAMPS IN ARMORY The Rev. John Longley, representing the Community Services Board, ex- plained that their organization was brought into existence by the re- quest of the United Fund to form one committee to coordinate programs addressing the problems and needs of the elderly. He went on to say that there is a need for a center for Senior Citizen activities. The Old Armory is currently used for their program, but they would like to request that a walkway and ramp be constructed into the basement to facilitate accessibility to the basement. At this time a slide presentation was given which showed present serv- ices and proposed services for the elderly. The proposed ramp would begin at the main sidewalk and go into the basement area at the north- west corner of the building. Don Peterson Construction has given a quote of $5,095 for the total cost. Alderman Haag raised a question regarding the large room in relation- ship to the ramp. Rev. Longley responded that the steps would remain in place and the ramp would parallel them. Mayor Black was concerned about the safety aspects of an open ramp during the winter season. He thought that there would have to be some kind of cover and/or maintenance to keep it clean and safe. Alderman K. Peterson questioned if the ramp goes up and then down. To this question, Rev. Longley remarked that the ramp goes right off the sidewalk level that goes by the front of the building so that there is no barrier for a wheelchair. There is no incline; the ramp goes down. -4- Council Minutes, January 11, 1977 At this point the Mayor opened the discussion to the public. Betty Witcher presented the importance of the nutrition center for the elderly going into the Old Armory if it is developed into a senior cit- izen concept. On-site preparation of food could be done and many more people could be served. Also, other services and activities would be available to the senior citizens if they were located in the Old Armory. Mrs. Witcher pointed out that a ramp is necessary in order to make the facilities available to everybody, including those in wheelchairs. The meals could also be made available to Silver Lake if a total senior center were available. Emma Lake expressed an interest in seeing the program go through and felt there is a need for it. Mayor Black pointed out that the ramp is only a portion of the total program. He then asked if the lower part of the Old Armory was being turned over to the purpose of senior citizens. To this question, Rev. Longley replied that the basement would not be only for senior citizens but for all people with senior citizens making use of the facilities. Mayor Black raised several more questions. He wanted to know if the on-site food preparation is another program that is being proposed. He also wanted to know who would be responsible for the safety of the ramp during the cold weather and for the older people. Further, he wanted to know what date is meant by "as soon as possible" and won- dered what other deadline for grants is upcoming, if any. Alderman Westlund asked if the grant applied for was not for a ramp and wondered why they are only asking for a small portion rather than a larger amount. Rev. Longley responded that the program was in the offing before the grant deadline had been established so there is a possibility that it will be approved. Providing better access through the ramp would make the community eligible for state and federal grants for expanded pro- grams for the elderly. Betty Witcher commented that the grant covers initial equipment needed as well as a part-time coordinator to coordinate the senior citizen con- cept. The project has been in the working for the past three years, and it has local support as well as state support. In 1968 funds were given to Hutchinson for the total senior center concept under Title III and several pieces of equipment were purchased with these federal funds. Since the program was never taken over by the city or McLeod County, it has now become a club. Mayor Black asked if the proposal had been discussed with the Park and Recreation Board inasmuch as they are responsible for the operation of -5- 4 Council Minutes, January 11, 1477 the Old Armory. Rev. Longley commented that Rod Keith is on the Com- munity Services Board and supports, the proposal, but he was not sure if it had been brought before the Park and Recreation Board. Alderman Haag posed a question about the on-site meal preparation and wanted to know if the meals would be prepared in the basement of the Old Armory. Betty Witcher responded that it would be beneficial if the meals could be prepared on-site. She is hoping for a county -wide nutritional program. The funds would be available under the program to pay for the preparation of meals so there would be no cost to the City. The stove in the basement would serve the purpose for preparing meals, but they would need to buy a freezer. There is also adequate storage space available in the basement. She stressed again that the facilities would have to be available to all elderly people with a ramp instead of steps. Alderman Haag remarked that all interested groups, such as the elderly club, should present their proposals to the Park and Recreation Board before coming to the City Council. Betty Witcher asked if a representative of the Council could attend the next meeting of the committee on Thursday, January 20. Mayor Black stated that inasmuch as Alderman K. Peterson is the Council representa- tive on the Park and Recreation Board, she should attend the meeting. Alderman Westlund asked if a better location wouldn't be more suitable for this group. Mayor Black pointed out that a study is being conducted on all public buildings to determine their use under the Municipal Facilities Study. He felt that this should be included in the same study. At this time he would not be in any position to give favorable approval to the re- quest of the Community Services Board for the Elderly inasmuch as more information is needed to form a decision, although he favors the program. His suggestion was that the committee meet with the Park and Recreation Board with their proposal and bring it back to the Council when all the details have been finalized. It was moved by Alderman Westlund, seconded by Alderman Haag, to defer the item until a future meeting. Motion carried unanimously. (b) CONSIDERATION OF REQUEST FOR SNOW REMOVAL PERMIT APPLICATION FOR HAROLD JUUL AND DON PETERSON CONSTRUCTION CO. After discussion, it was moved by Alderman Westlund, seconded by Alder- man K. Peterson, to approve the applications. Motion carried unanimously. (c) CONSIDERATION OF SALARY INCREASES FOR TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT PERSONNEL WE Council Minutes, January 11, 1977 Community Development Director Pauley gave a summary of his memo to the Council regarding the Transit System personnel. He pointed out that an administrative error had been made when By Sharpe was first hired as full-time bus driver and that his salary should be upgraded. Also, there is a difference in the amount of salary paid part-time bus drivers who also work for the City on a full-time basis and those who are part-time bus drivers only. His recommendation was that after a 60 -day probationary period, the drivers should all receive the same salary. Mr. Pauley also posed a question regarding his authority as acting department head for the Transit System insofar as scheduling is con- cerned. Mayor Black responded by commenting that Mr. Pauley would have the authority to make any necessary changes or decisions required and that perhaps he should plan to keep these duties for an indefinite period of time. It was moved by Alderman Westlund, seconded by Alderman K. Peterson, to approve the recommended salary increases for the Transportation De- partment personnel. Motion carried unanimously. (d) CONSIDERATION OF AMENDING THE CITY PERSONNEL POLICY REGARDING WAGES AND HOURS Mayor Black pointed out that due to a U.S. Supreme Court ruling in 1976 returning the regulation of public employee wages and hours to state control, it is necessary to amend the City's Personnel Policy. After discussion, it was moved by Alderman Westlund, seconded by Alder- man Haag, to waive reading and adopt Resolution No. 5874 entitled Amending Resolution No. 2927, Personnel Policy, Regarding Wages and Hours. Motion carried unanimously. (e) CONSIDERATION OF IMPROVEMENT PROJECT 1977-34 City Engineer Priebe reported that John Miller has requested an exten- sion of water mains 800 feet north on California Street to facilitate development of property there. He recommended the project be approved and a hearing set for January 25, 1977. After discussion, it was moved by Alderman Westlund, seconded by Alder- man K. Peterson, to waive reading and adopt Resolution No. 5877 entitled Ordering Preparation of Report on 1977 Improvements and waive reading and adopt Resolution No. 5878 entitled Resolution Receiving Report and Calling Hearing on 1977 Improvement Project and set hearing for Janu- ary 25, 1977. Motion carried unanimously. -7- Council Minutes, January 11, 1977 (f) CONSIDERATION OF MEMBERSHIP IN MINNESOTA DEPUTY REGISTRAR ASSOCIATION Mayor Black remarked that the City Council needs to appoint a new Deputy Registrar, but he felt that this action should wait until after the arrival of the City's new Administrative Assistant. At that time a decision could also be made about joining the Minnesota Deputy Reg- istrars Association. Inasmuch as there is a meeting of this group scheduled for January 29, it was suggested that Eileen Torry be ap- pointed to attend. Upon motion by Alderman Westlund, seconded by Alderman Haag, it was moved that Eileen Torry be authorized to attend the January 29 meeting of the Minnesota Deputy Registrars Association. Motion carried unani- mously. It was moved by Alderman Westlund, seconded by Alderman Haag, to defer action on membership in the Minnesota Deputy Registrars Association and the naming of a Deputy Registrar until a future date. Motion car- ried unanimously. 10. MISCELLANEOUS (a) COMMUNICATIONS FROM MAYOR Mayor Black mentioned that the 1977 Minnesota Local Government Legis- lative Bulletin will be available during the 1977 legislative session for a cost of $10 per subscription. He felt it was a worthwhile pub- lication. It was moved by Alderman Westlund, seconded by Alderman K. Peterson, to subscribe to the 1977 Minnesota Local Government Legislative Bulletin for Mayor Black, City Attorney Schantzen, and City Clerk Plotz. Motion carried unanimously. Mayor Black referred to a memo the Personnel Coordinator had written to the Mayor and City Council and called upon Hazel Sitz for further input. At this time Mrs. Sitz explained that several city employees had taken classes in the fall with the understanding that the City would pay for a portion of the cost of the course. Presently there are employees who would like to continue the second part of their classes. She wondered what the Council's position was on reimbursing partial cost for courses taken by City employees. After discussion, it was moved by Alderman Westlund, seconded by Alder- man K. Peterson, to approve reimbursement of one-half the cost for present requests. Future job-related classes, with prior approval of the Personnel Coordinator and Department Head, will be considered on an individual basis by the City Council. Motion carried unanimously. M Council Minutes, January 11, 1977 (b) COMMUNICATIONS FROM ALDERMAN WESTLUND Alderman Westlund referred to the presentation made by Rev. John Longley of the Community Services Board for the Elderly and posed the question as to what affiliation this group has with the school and county. He also wondered if it was necessary for the City to provide facilities for cooking food to be served to the elderly in Silver Lake and surroundings. (c) COMMUNICATIONS FROM ALDERMAN K. PETERSON Alderman K. Peterson reported that a letter was submitted stating that the City of Hutchinson had supported the Senior Citizens Program from the beginning of its existence and provided space for their meetings. (d) COMMUNICATIONS FROM ALDERMAN HAAG In regard to the basement of the Old Armory, Alderman Haag raised a question on the space available and what effect the proposed Senior Citizen Program would have on other activities. Alderman Haag wanted to know what happens to the ramps when the roller rink leaves the Old Armory. To this question, Mayor Black responded that the lease agreement states that it is the responsibility of Loren's Rollercade, Inc. to remove the ramps and return the floor to its orig- inal condition. He further pointed out that the back ramp would be beneficial to have left in tact. If the lessee decides to terminate his lease with the City before contract expiration, perhaps this ramp could be one of the conditions for releasing the lease, but the ramps are owned by Loren's Rollercade, Inc. (e) COMMUNICATIONS FROM CITY ATTORNEY City Attorney Schantzen reported briefly on the bridge lawsuit of the environmental group against the Department of Natural Resources and the City over the bridge permit which was heard Monday by the Minnesota Supreme Court. (f) COMMUNICATIONS FROM CITY ENGINEER City Engineer Priebe presented drawings on the School Road Bridge and reported that there will be a cost savings by lengthening the spans. The Luce Line Trail will go under the bridge. He further commented on the lighting across the bridge and reported that the guard rail won't work for the light pole base. He is hopeful that bids can be taken in March. City Engineer Priebe commented that the February 28 urban project will be one month later than planned. MOM a L Council Minutes, January 11, 1977 Mr. Vince Ryan of the McLeod County Board has reviewed the traffic situation on Jefferson Street and has authorized the placement of stop signs at Third and Fourth Avenue S.E. to stop traffic at Jef- ferson. Jefferson will be a through street. City Engineer Priebe commented that this is what the City Council did not want to happen so he will check into it further before the signs are installed. Alderman K. Peterson remarked that the placement of signs at these locations doesn't solve the problem of traffic accidents. 11. CLAIMS, APPROPRIATIONS AND CONTRACT PAYMENTS (a) VERIFIED CLAIMS A motion was made by Alderman Westlund, seconded by Alderman K. Peter- son, to approve the verified claims and authorize payment from the appropriate funds, with the exception of one bill to be clarified. Motion carried unanimously. 12. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business to come before the Council, the meeting was adjourned at 9:30 P.M. on motion by Alderman Westlund, seconded by Alderman Haag. Motion carried unanimously. -10-