10-19-2005 CSMCREEK SIDE SOILS ADVISORY COMMITTEE
MINUTES
October 19, 2005, 4:15 p.m.
Call to Order: 4:20 p.m.
Members Present: Bill Arndt, Gary Plotz, Brandon Fraser and Doug Johnson
Members Absent: Marion Filk, Casey Stotts, Randy DeVries
1. Update on Waste Management Landfill
Gary Plotz and Doug Johnson reported that the site is not yet completed. Product has started
to be delivered to this site due to the compost site's Fall production. Staff and a McLeod
County Commissioner are working on having this project proceed more timely.
2. Update on Permit Extension at Main Facility
Gary Plotz reported that the compost site has been working under written permit for operation.
A formal application needs to be submitted for an extension for a more permanent permit for
the facility. A meeting is being held with the MPCA on October 28, 2005, at 3:30 p.m.
3. Update on Bag Production
Doug Johnson reported that bag production is ruining at four 10 -hour shifts and the facility
has approximately 5000 bags on the ground. After the Minneapolis contract project, the
facility will run at two shifts. Most of the mulch and custom bagging are complete. The
United Hardware contract project has begun.
Gary Plotz noted that he has received information from the marketing consultant that
Creekside's product is virtually in every small greenhouse /nursery market place. There is not
enough profit margin for Creekside to sell in the big box stores.
4. Update on Software Improvements through December 31, 2005
Gary Plotz reported that the compost facility has been researching different softwares for
manufacturing purposes. Cam Rucks, the facility's financial consultant, is recommending that
the facility acquire PeachTree software, which includes a production module with the
manufacturing software. This system includes tracking employee time, turning time, bagging
time, etc.
5. Request for Proposals
Gary Plotz reported that the Compost Advisory Board and City Council have directed staff to
fill the vacant General Manager position via Request for Proposals. Mr. Plotz distributed the
RFP document that will be out for advertisement effective October 20, 2005. This RFP will be
advertised in the local newspaper, the Minneapolis Star Tribune, as well as in the western edge
of the metro area. The RFPs are due in November 10, 2005. Discussion was held as to the
pros and cons of an employee vs. a contractor in this position.
Ken Merrill, Finance Director, noted that a financial report will be presented at the next Board
meeting.
Doug Johnson reported on the efficiency improvements made to the production cycle. Mr.
Johnson also reported on issues that the neighbors had brought up in the past, such as odor.
Other than one complaint, the issue has resolved and the odor levels are minimal.
Bill Arndt mentioned that leaf debris has been found in road ditches outside the city limits.
Mr. Arndt recommended advertising more aggressively that the compost facility is open on
Saturdays and he suggested being open on Sundays during the daylight for a short -term (three
weeks or so). Gary Plotz will speak with Becky Kobow regarding this.
With no further business to discuss, the meeting adjourned at 5:15 p.m.