City Council Minutes 08-27-2007
Council Minutes: 8/27/07
MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING - MONTICELLO CITY COUNCIL
Monday August 27, 2007 -7 p.m.
Members Present:
Clint Herbst, Wayne Mayer, Tom Perrault, Brian Stumpf and Susie
Wojchouski.
Members Absent:
None
1. Call to Order and Pledl!e of Allel!iance
Mayor Herbst called the meeting to order at 7 p.m. and declared a quorum present. The
Pledge of Allegiance was said.
2A. Approve minutes of AUl!ust 13. 2007 Rel!ular Council Meetinl!.
BRIAN STUMPF MOVED TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE AUGUST 13, 2007
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING. SUSIE WOJCHOUSKl SECONDED THE MOTION.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
2B. Approve minutes of AUl!ust 22. 2007 Special Council Meetinl! - Hudl!et Workshop
SUSIE WOJCHOUSKI MOVED TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE AUGUST 22,
2007 SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING ON THE 2008 BUDGET. TOM PERRAULT
SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED WITH CLINT HERBST
ABSTAINING.
3. Consideration of addinl! items to the al!enda.
The following items were added to the agenda: I) Update on audio equipment; 2) Comments
on fiber optics; 3) Trees and/or berms at Taco John's; and 4) Update on noise ordinance.
4. Citizen comments. petitions. requests and concerns.
Randy Ruff 611 Elm Street, spoke about the trailers remaining on his property. The Council
indicated they would hear his comments when the agenda item relating the Villas at Elm came
up.
5. Consent Al!enda:
A. Consideration of ratifying hires and departures MCC, Liquor Store and Parks.
Recommendation: Ratify hires and departures as identified.
B. Consideration of approving temporary charitable gambling license for Ducks
Unlimited, Chapter 256 for October 16, 2007. Recommendation: Approve the
temporary charitable gambling license for Ducks Unlimited, Chapter 256 for October
16,2007.
C. Consideration of approving Change Order #2 for the Meadow Oaks CSAH 39 Lift Station
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and Forcemain Improvement Project No. 2003-02C. Recommendation: Approve Change
Order No.2 in the amount of$2,758.35 for Barbarossa and Sons, Inc. to provide soft start
bypass switches for the lift station control panels to allow City staff to run the lift stations
in an emergency operation, ifthe starters trip off.
D. Consideration to ratify EDA approval ofGMEF Loan No. 026 to Washburn Computer
Group. Recommendation: Ratify that the EDA approval of GMEF Loan No. 026 for
Washburn Computer Group is consistent with the GMEF Guidelines and approving the
Business Subsidy Agreement.
E. Consideration of renewal of pawn shop license for Walt's Pawn Shop. Recommendation:
Approve the renewal of the pawn shop license for Walt's Pawn Shop for another month.
F. Consideration of approval of concept and development stage planned unit development for
Quad Development for a commercial plat in a B-4 District, Outlot A of Monticello
Business Center 3'd Addition (proposed Monticello Business Center 4th Addition).
Applicant: Scott Builders Recommendation: Approve the development stage planned
unit development and preliminary plat approval for Quad Development based on a finding
that the proposed use is consistent with the performance standards of the B-4 District,
subject to the conditions outlined as follows:
I) A sidewalk connection shall be provided to the School Boulevard sidewalk.
2) Additional plantings shall be provided in the center island.
3) The applicant shall extend the center island to the north to reduce the drive aisle
width in this area.
4) Additional aesthetic details shall be provided on the back fa9ade and roofline of
each building to add visual interest.
5) All wall mounted lighting shall contain a full cutoff fixture.
6) All trash enclosures shall be of similar materials and color to those of the principal
structures.
7) The applicant shall comply with all recommendations of the City Engineer, as
outlined in the memo from Bruce Westby dated July 31 '''2007, and the memo from
WSB dated July 31, 2007.
G. Consideration of submitting joint funding resolution to LCCMR. Recommendation:
Adopt Resolution No. 2007-64 supporting a joint request by Wright County and the City of
Monticello for appropriation from the Environmental and Natural Resources Trust Fund to
acquire the YMCA property.
H. Consideration of awarding contract for Tower Drive Improvements, City Project No.
2007-08C. Recommendation: Award the contract for Tower Drive Improvements, City
Project No. 2007-08C to Doboszenski and Sons, Inc. in the amount of$108,773.60.
1. Consideration of scheduling a workshop for September 17,2007 on the Public Works
Facility and Needs Study. Recommendation: Set a workshop for City Council and staff at
5:30 p.m. on September 17, 2007 to discuss the Public Works facility and Needs Study in
depth and look at options for the future.
J. Consideration of approval of a request for a conditional use permit for development stage
planned unit development for the proposed Villas on Elm. Applicant: UP Development.
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Recommendation: Move to extend the June 26,2006 Conditional Use Permit for
Development Stage Planned Unit Development and Preliminary Plat for Villas on Elm to
June 26, 2008 with all previously approved conditions assigned to the extension, and that
condition that the applicant reimburse the City for expenses incurred in the review ofthe
application to date and submission of a deposit to cover future review expenses associated
with the review of revised preliminary plat and PUD plans.
K. Consideration of scheduling a workshop for September 10, 2007 at 5:30 to consider
biosolids options. Recommendation: Schedule a workshop for 5:30 p.m. on September
10,2007 prior to the Council meeting for the purpose of updating and discussing the
wastewater treatment plant operations, the biosolids project, status of our NPDES permit
and the status of Sunny Fresh Food's proposal to build a treatment facility at their current
site.
L. Consideration of adding a 16' x 16' open air shelter at West Bridge Park.
Recommendation: Approve the purchase and installation of the 16' x 16' open air shelter
for West Bridge Park from Flanagan sales in the amount of$12,138.87.
M. Consideration of request by American Legion for number and placement of off-site
directional signs. Recommendation: Approve the request from the American Legion for
the placement of three signs, 18" x 24", green on white to be installed by the City and paid
for by the applicant.
BRIAN STUMPF MOVED TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA OF ITEMS #5A, #5B,
#5C, #50, #5E AND #5K. WAYNE MAYER SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
6. Consideration of items removed from the consent al!:enda for discussion.
#5F Extension of preliminary plat and conditional use permit for development stage planned
unit development for Quad Development: Wayne Mayer questioned the site location and it was
noted that it should be east ofWal-Mart and west of Autumn Ridge Townhomes. It was also
questioned what recommendation the Planning Commission approved. Steve Grittman explained
the Planning Commission had approved the original proposal.
Brian Stumpf expressed some concern about the parking lot combination particularly as to why
the third building had parking behind the building instead of in front of the building. The
applicant had looked at other options as far as parking but this option best suited the parcel. Brian
Stumpf apologized for his remark at the Planning Commission meeting that the parking lot was
hideous looking.
WAYNE MAYER MOVED TO APPROVE THE DEVELOPMENT STAGE PLANNED UNIT
DEVELOPMENT APPROVAL AND PRELIMNARY PLAT APPROVAL FOR FIVE
MULTI-TENANT OFFICE BUILDINGS FOR THE PROPOSED MONTICELLO BUSINESS
CENTER 4TH ADDITION BASED ON A FINDING THAT THE PROPOSED USE IS
CONSISTENT WITH PERFORMANCE STANDARDS OF THE B-4 DISTRICT AND
SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS:
1) A sidewalk connection shall be provided to the School Boulevard sidewalk.
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2) Additional plantings shall be provided in the center island.
3) The applicant shall extend the center island to the north to reduce the drive aisle width in
this area.
4) Additional aesthetic details shall be provided on the back fa9ade and roofline of each
building to add visual interest.
5) All wall mounted lighting shall contain a full cutoff fixture.
6) All trash enclosures shall be of similar materials and color to those of the principal
structures.
7) The applicant shall comply with all recommendations of the City Engineer, as outlined in the
memo from Bruce Westby dated July 31 st, 2007, and the memo from WSB dated July 31, 2007.
TOM PERRAULT SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
5G Submittingjointfunding resolution to LCCMRfor YMCA acquisition: Jeff O'Neill
provided background information indicating that the LCCMR makes appropriations for
environmental concerns and projects. Marc Mattice, Wright County Parks Superintendent felt
there was a chance with a joint resolution of the City and County that they might get an
appropriation for the YMCA acquisition. At this time the action is preliminary and the City is not
obligated to pay for their 1/3 share of the cost. This action would be simultaneous with the request
to have the YMCA acquisition included in the state bonding bill. Brian Stumpf asked if the state
by making an appropriation for the acquisition of the YMCA could claim any ownership of the
property. Brian Stumpf also asked about the money the City had been budgeting for the YMCA.
Staff indicated that the annual amount the City contributed to the YMCA was for their programs.
BRIAN STUMPF MOVED TO ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 2007-64 SUPPORTING A JOINT
REQUEST BY WRIGHT COUNTY AND THE CITY OF MONTICELLO FOR
APPROPRIATION FROM THE ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES TRUST
FUND TO ACQUIRE THE YMCA PROPERTY. WAYNE MAYER SECONDED THE
MOTION. MOTION CARRIED WITH TOM PERRAULT VOTING IN OPPOSITION
BECAUSE HE DID NOT FEEL THE CITY NEED TO ACQUIRE ADDITIONAL PARK
LAND.
#5H Award of contract for Tower Drive Improvements, Project No. 2007-08: Wayne Mayer
asked when the project takes place would it be the appropriate time for street signage to take place.
He felt the street should be signed either as Tower Drive or Holy Spirit Drive but the name use
should be consistent. Bruce Westby said the actual street name is Tower Drive but the Council
felt that previous action had been taken to change the name to Holy Spirit Drive. Staffwill check
into that.
WAYNE MAYER MOVED TO AWARD THE CONTRACT FOR THE TOWER DRIVE
IMPROVEMENTS, CITY PROJECT NO.2007-08C TO DOBOSZENSKI AND SONS, INC. IN
THE AMOUNT OF $108,773.60 WITH THE CITY ENGINEER TO FOLLOW UP ON
DETERMINING THE OFFICIAL NAME OF THE STREET. SUSIE WOJCHOUSKI
SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
#51 Workshop on Public Works Facility and Needs Study: Both Wayne Mayer and Brian
Stumpf had conflicts with the proposed September 17,2007 date. Clint Herbst questioned the
amount of time that the meeting would take and was told it would be at least an hour and a half.
Clint Herbst suggested scheduling the meeting at 5 p.m. on September 24,2007. The special
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meeting would cover both the Public Works Facility and Needs Study and the EDAlHRA merger.
WAYNE MAYER MOVED TO SET A SPECIAL MEETING FOR THE PUBLIC WORKS
FACILITY AND NEEDS STUDY FOR 5 P.M. ON MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2007. BRIAN
STUMPF SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
#5J Extension of a conditional use permit for development stage planned unit development and
preliminary plat for Villas on Elm: Randy Ruff spoke regarding the two trailers containing his
personal property that still remain on the site. He did not feel they should be moved from the
property at this time. The trailers are secured and he assured the Council they would be moved
whenever the property transfer is completed. Clint Herbst asked what kind of time frame he
expected it would be before the trailers are moved stating he was reluctant to grant an extension
without knowing the time frame for the trailers being moved. Building Official Gary Anderson
stated it was an issue between Randy Ruff and the developer. The issue has to do with financial
obligations between the two parties and had nothing to do with the City. Randy Ruff took it upon
himself to get the area cleaned up with no assistance from the developer. Only the two trailers
remain. Gary Anderson reported the property has been mowed and maintained by Mr. Ruff. Gary
Anderson felt the developer should inform the Council what his intentions are as far as
development. Clint Herbst asked if there was a palatable way of arranging the trailers on site.
Gary Anderson said that is at the Council's discretion. Gary Anderson said the trailers are Ron
Ruffs personal property and they are going when he goes. Brian Stumpf said at the Planning
Commission meeting it was brought up that there are limited places in the City where trailers
could be parked. Wayne Mayer asked if there was a more inconspicuous spot that would still
allow Mr. Ruff to take advantage of the light. Clint Herbst didn't know ifhe had a problem with
trailers staying because the property is in a transition period but he is somewhat concerned about
what the City is allowing. Wayne Mayer said as much as the Council can sympathize with Randy
Ruff the City does have an ordinance in place. Wayne Mayer asked the City Attorney if the
Council could vary from the ordinance. Torn Scott said the Council has the discretion to defer the
enforcement of the ordinance in this particular case. Brian Stumpf felt since the property was in
the PZM zone there was some latitude. The conditional use permit is proposed to be extended
through June 26, 2008.
At this time Tom Rollings the developer came forward. He indicated that nothing is happening
with the development at this point. He is still planning to start this fall or next spring by the latest.
Tom Rollings felt the market is turning around and he expects he will have the development ready
to go in the spring. Wayne Mayer asked if the project would begin this fall would it expedite the
moving of the trailers. Randy Rufffelt he would be down here at least another year.
SUSIE WOJCHOUSKI MOVED TO EXTEND THE JUNE 26, 2006 CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT FOR DEVELOPMENT STAGE PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT AND
PRELIMINARY PLAT FOR VILLAS ON ELM WITH ALL PREVIOUSLY APPROVED
CONDITIONS ASSIGNED TO THE EXTENSION AND TO APPROVE THE CONDITION
THAT THE APPLICANT REIMBURSE THE CITY FOR EXPENSES INCURRED IN THE
REVIEW OF THE APPLICATION TO DATE AND SUBMISSION OF A DEPOSIT TO
COVER FUTURE REVIEW EXPENSES ASSOCIATED WITH THE REVIEW OF THE
REVISED PRELIMINARY PLAT AND PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT PLANS; FOR
THE TERM OF THE EXTENSION OF THE CONDITIONAL USE THE COUNCIL DEFERS
ANY ENFORCEMENT OR PROSECUTION RELATING TO THE PRESENCE OF THE
TRAILERS ON THE SITE. WAYNE MAYER SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION
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CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
#5L Approve purchase of shelter for West Bridge Park: Interim Park Superintendent, Tom
Pawelk eXplained the request for a park shelter at West Bridge Park noting that the area of the play
structure is out in the open. The shelter would provide some respite from the sun for the parents
who are watching their children. $10,000 was budgeted for this shelter. Wayne Mayer felt the
price of$12,138 was high for a 16' X 16' shelter. He suggested that the Park Department look at a
shelter of different material such as wood. Tom Pawelk said they could price out this type of
structure using wood. Clint Herbst agreed stating that with the staff in the Park Department he felt
staff could design and build the shelter for less. It was noted the $12,138 included installation of
the building with the Parks Department putting in the concrete slab. The Council felt staff should
go back and see what they could design a shelter for. Tom Pawelk asked about the maintenance
free aspect of the proposed shelter which is why staff selected it. Wayne Mayer responded that the
periodic painting of the shelter is something that could be done by summer help. Clint Herbst also
suggested that a shelter should be considered for the Groveland Park. Tom Pawelk indicated that
the shelter for Groveland is in the 2008 budget. Tom Pawelk will check for cheaper alternatives
on the shelter. Tom Perrault pointed out that the price quote for the shelter was good until
September 12, 2007 and suggested that the alternatives come back to the Council at the September
10, 2007 regular meeting.
TOM PERRAULT MOVED TO TABLE APPROVAL OF THE OPEN AIR SHELTER AT
WEST BRIDGE PARK UNTIL SEPTEMBER 10, 2007 GIVING STAFF TIME TO LOOK AT
LESS EXPENSIVE ALTERNATIVES. SUSIE WOJCHOUSKI SECONDED THE MOTION.
MOTION CARRIED WITH WAYNE MAYER VOTING IN OPPOSITION.
#5M Request by American Legion for number and placement of off-site directional signs: The
American Legion was requesting approval of three off-site directional signs. Brian Stumpf asked
if the three signs were going to be in addition the two signs that are in place. John Simola
indicated that those signs were approved by the County and were placed in County right-of-way.
It was questioned why the signs were not consistent. The signs presently in place are blue and
white and the request for signs through the City are green and white. John Simola stated the
county and state specify blue and white for the directional signs and the City's ordinance is green
and white. Brian Stumpf clarified that he meant consistency only for the Legion signs. Wayne
Mayer asked if the county furnished the signs or did the Legion pay for them. Art Doran stated
the Legion paid for the signs. Wayne Mayer felt in this case because the Legion had already paid
for the signs the City should go with the blue and white signs for the Legion as well.
BRIAN STUMPF MOVED TO APPROVE THE REQUEST FROM THE AMERICAN LEGION
FOR THE PLACEMENT OF A TOTAL OF THREE SIGNS AT THE FOLLOWING
LOCATIONS: TWO SIGNS AT THE INTERSECTION OF 3RD STREET AND TH 25 AND
THE THIRD SIGN TO BE PLACED AT THE INTERSECTION OF WEST 6TH STREET AND
ELM STREET AND THAT THE CITY SIGNS BE CONSISTENT IN COLOR WITH THE
COUNTY SIGNS. WAYNE MAYER SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
7. Department Report - Sheriff's Department
Joe Hagerty and Dan Anselment from the Wright County Sheriff's Department reported to the
Council on Sheriff Department activities in the City. Joe Hagerty noted that the Council had for
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2007 approved an additionalS hours a day to the police contract to commence in July of2007.
Apparently this information was not relayed to the County Coordinator so although the City was
not billed for the additional S hours daily the City did not receive the service either. Joe Hagerty
noted that the Sheriff s Department could not staff the extra car needed to provide the additional
hours until January I, 200S. The additionalS hours could start in January or July of200S
whichever the Council prefers. This would bring Monticello's coverage up to 56 hours a day
resulting in a contract cost over $1,000,000 for 200S. ($54/hour x 56 hours x 365).
Dan Anselment reviewed the information from the last quarterly police activity report which had
been distributed to the Council. The Sheriffs Department is seeing more identity theft crimes,
fraud and check forgeries and he indicated that these types of crime are more time consuming to
investigate. He noted that there have been more service type calls such as alarms or suspicious
activity which means more people are calling in with concerns about things that they see going on.
Traffic is still the most common complaint in the city and people want to see more enforcement.
Clint Herbst asked if the Sheriff s Department could provide information on where they felt the
new speed trailer the City purchased could be placed. Dan Anselment said they would let the
Public Works Department know about the hot traffic spots so they could put up the speed trailer.
Dan Anselment indicated that crimes such as larceny and theft were 50% higher than last year. He
noted that breaking into cars has become a problem and they would really like the help of the
public in this area. The department has sent out a letter that gives some tips that individuals can
use to discourage thieves from breaking into vehicles. This problem is not unique to Monticello
but is happening county wide. Property damage is another crime that continues to increase as
well. As far as narcotics, marijuana seems to be the drug of choice but there is methamphetamine
and cocaine use as well. Most of the drug arrests are a result of traffic stops. Clint Herbst asked
about the noise ordinance and complaints about the loud stereos on cars. Dan Anselment stated
this was not a quality oflife issue but they do use the ordinance as a tool.
8. Consideration of annroval of amendment to Chanter 3 of the Monticello Zonine: Ordinance
ree:ulatine: the heil!:ht and area of sie:ns in a freeway overlav zone within a commercial
district.
Consulting planner, Steve Grittrnan provided background information. The Planning Commission
reviewed this amendment on the size of signs in the ordinance provisions relating to the freeway
district. On Exhibit B the red area shows the boundary ofthe existing freeway bonus district.
The proposed amendment consisted of a number of areas proposed to be added; the orange area
along TH 25 to the intersection of Chelsea Road; an area east of Cedar Street between Chelsea
Road and Dundas Road; the area between Marvin Road and Cedar Street south of Chelsea Road
and the area west of Marvin Road to 90th Street. The Planning Commission approved the
expanded boundaries with the exception of the area lying west of Marvin Road and east of 90th
Street. The Planning Commission did not recommend any changes to the current sign area of up
to 200 square feet or the sign height of 32 feet. The reason the Planning Commission gave for not
expanding the boundaries to include the area between Marvin Road and 90th Street is because it
abutted a residential development. Community Development staff prepared a power point
presentation providing examples of existing signs in Monticello and signs from others
communities such as Maple Grove, Rogers and St. Cloud.
There was some discussion on the proposed expansion areas. Steve Grittrnan stated the current
sign ordinance regulates sign height and area based on location. The bonus district allows an
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increase up to 200 square feet in area and 32' in height. There was some discussion and
clarification on what was meant by the boundaries shown as Exhibit A and Exhibit B. Wayne
Mayer asked why south Chelsea Road between Edmonson and 90th Street was allowed in this area.
Steve Grittman replied it was included because it was in the industrial area. Wayne Mayer also
questioned why the area extended down so far along TH 25. Steve Grittman said the Planning
Commission felt the area was influenced by the freeway.
Brian Stumpf voiced his frustration with the sign ordinance and all the amendments to it. He
questioned why the City could not specify a specific height and area that is the same for all the
developers to work with. Susie Wojchouski felt even though signs are necessary it is a question of
blight of signs. She felt that businesses are moving away from newspaper advertising and going
more towards signs. She felt Maple Grove was a destination area and didn't need to rely as
heavily on the signs to bring people in whereas Monticello is a place people stop because they see
a sign on the freeway. Community Development staff noted that the comprehensive plan update
will be coming back before the Council and may be the sign amendment should be tabled until
that time. Brian Stumpf felt tabling the item seemed logical. He noted this Council's view could
be highly different than the Council that is here six years from now. Wayne Mayer said he would
prefer the Council to make a decision on the item now rather than rehashing it again.
WAYNE MAYER MOVED TO APPROVE THE AMENDMENT TO SECTION 3-9[B]4(e) OF
THE ZONING ORDINANCE BUT NOT AS PROPOSED IN EXHBIT A BUT WITH OPTION
A AND OPTION B OF EXHIBIT B WITH NO CHANGE TO SIGN AREA OR HEIGHT.
BRIAN STUMPF SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED WITH SUSIE
WOJCHOUSKI VOTING IN OPPOSITION.
9. Consideration of acceptilll!: report on establishinl!: storm sewer utility fund.
Bruce Westby spoke regarding the development of the storm sewer utility fund. The report was
prepared by WSB at the request of city staff. The storm sewer utility fund is a means of
recovering costs for storm sewer maintenance and improvements. To date these costs have been
covered by the general fund. Funds generated by a storm sewer utility fee could be used for future
storm sewer maintenance.
Bruce Westby briefly reviewed the report noting state statute allows for establishing a storm sewer
utility fund and allows the city to collect these fees. The rates can be adjusted on an annual basis.
Neighboring communities of St. Michael, Albertville and Buffalo already have established a storm
sewer utility fund. The storm water utility fee would be based on the percentage of impervious
area or the amount of storm water runoff generated by a site. Based on a proposed fee of
$7/quarter this fund would generate $600,000 of revenue a year. The estimated current costs are
$295,000 and $300,000 is for related future items. The $600,000 would cover current and future
maintenance.
It was found that cities were not doing storm water maintenance because oflack of funding. Clint
Herbst asked instead oflobbying the legislature to establish this funding source, why didn't cities
levy for it. Bret Weiss said that funds set aside for maintenance often ended up being used by the
city for other items. With this fee the cities are collecting the money from the people who
generate the storm water runoff. This also allows collection from churches and other institutions
that are tax exempt because it is a utility fee rather than a tax. Clint Herbst felt the City was
overburdening the property owner with all these charges. He felt that earmarking a portion of the
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levy each year is what the City should do rather than add it as another utility fee.
Susie Wojchouski noted that business owners and developer will view this as an added burden
because they already paid storm sewer trunk charges. Bret Weiss said this a maintenance fee and
storm sewer trunk charges are for improvements such as ponding and piping. Bret Weiss said is
important for the Council to recognize that something has to be done. Bret Weiss added there are
things the property owner can do on their site to minimize runoff. He noted there is also an
appeals process outlined in the feasibility report. Because some companies in the industrial park
will feel like they are being charged twice, Wayne Mayer wanted to clarify that future
development will pay trunk fees and storm water maintenance fees. Wayne Mayer asked if the
proposed storm water utility fees are too aggressive. Bret Weis responded that the City could
start out with a lower rate. Brian Stumpf said he realizes this is part of the cost of doing business
but adding this as a quarterly fee was not something he could vote for especially in these economic
times. Brian Stumpf agreed if it had to be done, the City should add it onto the levy. Bruce
Westby said the $7/quarter is based on what costs the City had now and for future regulations that
will be coming down the pipe. The City could establish storm water utility fee with a lower
initial rate of around $4/quarter. Susie Wojchouski said she didn't know if people would object if
the rate started out lower and remained at that rate a couple of years before being increased.
Wayne Mayer said he didn't know if basing the fee on acreage was the best. Tom Perrault
questioned in the report the expense for the street sweeping program. He also questioned the cost
listed in Appendix A for establishing a wetland bank. Bret Weiss stated that when wetlands are
filled in, they have to be replaced at a 2 to I ratio. The City can establish an area that could be
used for wetland or storm water runoff. Then if the City needs to they can take the wetland out of
that area rather that construct the wetland on site. As far as street sweeping that is a current cost.
Bret Weiss indicated the storm water utility fee is a contentious issue but is the way communities
are going. He pointed out that this fee is different than the trunk fee since it is only for
maintenance. John Sirnola said the City either has to add funds to the budget for the maintenance
of existing facilities or establish the storm water utility fund. He didn't want the City to fall
behind on the maintenance of their facilities. Jeff O'Neill pointed out that the City has been trying
to get away from using the property tax to fund all the programs. Wayne Mayer asked if the City
implements the storm water utility fee could they apply this to newly developed property and
grandfather in those who have already paid. Of the two fees, storm sewer trunk fee and storm
water utility fee, Bret Weiss felt the trunk fee is more essential. Most of the trunk fees are
earmarked for pond construction or other storm sewer improvements.
The City needs to figure out the best way to present this to the public. Bret Weiss felt if people
could see how this is implemented they would be more accepting of it. Otherwise the only option
was to do it through the budget process. Susie Wojchouski suggested tabling this until they could
get a committee together to work on it. Tom Perrault felt the fee could be unfair because not all
lots are the same in size. Bret Weiss suggested researching how other cities handled it.
SUSIE WOJCHOUSKI MOVED TO NOT AUTHORIZE THE PREPARATION OF A STORM
WATER UTILITY AT THIS TIME BUT TO ESTABLISH A WORKSHOP DATE TO STUDY
THIS.
Clint Herbst suggested staff sit down with some of the users and get their input. They can run the
numbers again using a less aggressive rate.
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SUSIE WOJCHOUSKI WITHDREW HER MOTION AND MOVED TO HAVE STAFF MEET
WITH USERS AND OWNERS AND RUN THE NUMBERS AGAIN AT A LESS
AGGRESSIVE RA TE. WAYNE MAYER SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY.
Brian Stumpf would like to see the billing based on the $295,000 of current actual costs.
10. Consideration of approval of a request to amend the Monticello ZoniUl!: Ordinance Chapters
3-2 and 3-5 as relatin!!: to the exterior stora!!:e and parkin!!: of vehicles in a residential district.
Brian Stumpf asked why the ordinance can't state it is wrong to park cars in the side or rear
yard without having to go through IS pages of ordinance amendments. Steve Grittman said
because the parking ordinance is complex, one change can impact other areas. Steve
Grittman reviewed through pictures some ofthe problems that the proposed ordinance
amendment would correct.
Initially the Planning Commission looked at front yard parking but other issues came up. The
issue is where on the property cars should be parked. The first item to be addressed is the
current 15' setback from any street surface. Brian Stumpffelt if someone is parking in their
driveway why should that affect snow removal. Brian Stumpf also asked what was meant by
#4 in the agenda item that boulevard right-of-way should not be used for street parking. Clint
Herbst agreed with the removal of the 15' setback saying unless the vehicle is blocking a
pathway or sidewalk there is no reason to have a 15' setback. The current ordinance has the
15' setback which Brian Stumpf noted had not been enforced until this year. Steve Grittman
says the vehicle has to be on private property. Bret Weiss pointed out that right-of- way can
extend 13'-14' behind the curb. Brian Stumpf reiterated his concern about not being able to
park in one's own driveway. John Simola said if the vehicle is parked too close to the curb
there could be problems with snowplow operation or damage to the vehicle caused by the
snow coming off the plow. Street Superintendent Tom Moores was asked his opinion. Tom
Moores felt there should be a minimum of 2-3 feet behind the curb although he would prefer
5-6 feet. He stated the boulevard ordinance does not allow anything but driveways to be
placed in the right-of-way. However a lot of property owners do have landscaping vegetation
and rocks placed in the right of way.
Clint Herbst felt this was making a mountain out of a molehill. Tom Moores said it was a
problem but not a huge problem. Wayne Mayer stated he hates to amend ordinances just
because of a few people. Clint Herbst felt parking in back yards was okay as long as it was on
a paved surface. Brian Stumpf said if you don't allow rear yard parking the issue of having a
paved surface would be resolved. Steve Grittman noted the other items they are looking at
are: 1) In front of building line no parking allowed except in driveway; 2) allow for side yard
parking where it is screened from the side street; 3) require that all installed driveways get a
permit. Staff is proposing to do an inventory of driveways that are too wide or otherwise do
not comply. Wayne Mayer asked about recreational vehicles posing the question ifthere is a
trailer with 3-4 snowmobiles on it is that one vehicle or are the vehicles counted individually.
Steve Grittman indicated it would be one vehicle. Wayne Mayer felt the ordinance language
should state it that way. Bret Weiss said on the street reconstruction projects that the City is
putting driveways back to what was there originally and not what the ordinance requires.
Tom Perrault questioned whether every driveway has to be paved. Steve Grittman said
existing gravel driveways would be grandfathered in. Clint Herbst stated the ordinance should
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Council Minutes: 8/27/07
allow off-street parking within any street surface as long as it does not block the sidewalk or
pathway.
Gary Anderson said the intent of the amendment is to help in enforcement of blight. There
are areas of non-conformance and in time these area will come into conformance. Taking
away the 15' setback should eliminate some of the enforcement problems. One can look at
parking areas outside the basic 24' surfaced driveway. Landscape rock or other material
could be use in areas of alternative parking as long as the alternate parking site is not a grass
surface. Wayne Mayer said rather than list all the types of surfaces that could be used, could
the City just have the Building Department approve the type of surface. Gary Anderson said
the surfacing type should be referred to the City Engineer rather than the Building
Department. Tom Scott, legal counsel, felt the ordinance should list the types of surfaces that
would be allowed. The City Engineer could periodically review the ordinance to include any
new type of surfacing material that may be added to the types allowed. Brian Stumpf asked
why it has to be screened on a comer lot. Steve Grittman felt there would not be aesthetic
problems if screening is done. Brian Stumpf would like to see the screening provision pulled
out of the amendment.
CLINT HERBST MOVED TO AMEND THE ORDINANCE TO ALLOW PARKING
WITHIN 15 FEET OF THE STREET SURFACE AND WITHIN THE BOULEVARD AS
LONG AS IT DOES NOT OBSTRUCT ANY SIDEWALK OR PATHWAY. WAYNE
MAYER SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
I Db - Storage of Vehicles in rear yards: The Council felt screening part should be removed
and if this does not work out the City can go back and amend the ordinance later on to include
it. Wayne Mayer would like to see the language in Section 1 of the proposed ordinance
amendment read "recreational vehicle or trailer. Under Section #2 Council should direct City
Engineer to review on an annual basis the section relating to surfacing material.
WAYNE MAYER MOVED TO APPROVE THE AMENDMENT WITH THE LANGUAGE
ON SCREENING FOR SIDE YARD PARKING BEING REMOVED FROM THE
PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENT; WITH THE CITY ENGINEER TO REVIEW
SECTION 2 OF THE PROPOSED ORDINANCE ON AN ANNUAL BASIS TO UPDATE
ANY NEW ALLOWABLE PAVING SURF ACES AND ADD "RECREATIONAL
VEHICLE OR TRAILER" TO THE LANGUAGE IN SECTION 1. SUSIE WOJCHOUSKI
SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED WITH TOM PERRAULT VOTING IN
OPPOSITION.
Added Items:
Taco John's: Clint Herbst asked if there were berming and landscaping requirements in the area of
the drive-thru. Staff indicated there were no berming requirements but there were landscaping
requirements along the line between the business and residential property
Noise: This item was discussed in the Sheriffs Department report.
Audio Equipment: Wayne Mayer was looking for an update on the equipment that was supposedly
removed from the facility. Jeff O'Neill said he would talk to Bill Bruce about this. Clint Herbst felt
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Council Minutes: 8/27/07
since people are relying more on technology such as cable and internet and are doing less reading, it
is important that the City's meeting are of a quality that can be heard and seen by people watching it.
Fiber Optics: Wayne Mayer noted it would be fantastic for the City to launch their own public
network. Wayne Mayer said he wanted to dispel some information that is showing up in letters to the
editor which is that city taxes will go up if fiber optics goes in. Wayne Mayer said there will be no
increase in taxes if Monticello's fiber optic system is built. He felt the comment that the fiber optics
commission is not being forthright in getting information to the public was not accurate. Wayne
Mayer said people on the fiber optics commission are educated in the technology field and fiber
optics. He encouraged people to vote on this issue on September 18th.
11. Consideration of approvilll.!: payment of bills for AU2Ust. 2007.
Wayne Mayer asked ifhe and Susie Wojchouski could get a list of chart of accounts. He also
asked about the Cub Food purchase in the liquor store items. It was noted that liquor store
does purchase certain items from Cub and the item was correctly coded. Tom Perrault noted
that an expenditure for the Fire Department open house had incorrectly been coded to the
Council.
TOM PERRAULT MOVED TO APPROVE PAYMENT OF THE BILLS. SUSIE
WOJCHOUSKI SECONDED THE MOTION. MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
12. Adiourn.
The meeting was adjourned at 10: 10 p.m.
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Recording Secretary "
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