HomeMy WebLinkAbout2000-05-17 MINUTES., � ,.
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May 17, 2000
OPEN FORUM — 7:15 p.m.
Open forum provides a person an opportunity to inform the Council of a problem or to request
information related to City business not scheduled for Councii action and on the Agenda. Mayor Denzer
encouraged persons to limit their remarks to two (2) minutes per issue.
Present: Mayor John Denzer
Councii Member Pat Rice
Council Member Cheryl Kohls
Councii Member Sandy Shiely
Councii Member Jim Wolcott
Also Present: Rya� Schroeder, City Administrator
Jahn Mickelson, Deputy Director of Public Safety/Captain
Bob Long City Attomey &-Gtaven
Jerry Bourdon, City Engineer, BRAA
Elizabeth Johnson, Finance Director
Les Butshten, Public Works Director
Michelle Wolfe, Asst. City Administrator
Kim Lindquist, Community Development Director
Aaron Doering, formerly of Rochester, addressed the Councii regarding the construction of their
townhome in Cottage Grove. Mr. Doering described problems he encountered with GM Homes during
the construction of his home in Pine Glen Addition, specifically 9874 Hamlet Court South. Mr. Doering
had contacted the project manager of GM Homes, who subsequently conceded to the situation, biaming
crews for the resuiting structural problems. The Doering's eventually received their $1,000 earnest
money back from GM Homes and were able to withdraw from the contract. Mr. and Mrs. Doering said
that they wished to inform the Council of their concern for other potential new residents of Cottage Grove
and feit it was their obiigation to warn the Councii of their situation.
CALL TO ORDER
The Gity Councii of the City of Cottage Grove, Washington County, Minnesota heid a regular meeting on
Wednesday, May 17, 2000, at the Cottage Grove City Hall, 7516 80` Street South. Mayor Denzer called
the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m.
RO�� CALL
Present: Mayor John Denzer
Council Member Pat Rice
Council Member Gheryi Kohls
Council Member Santly Shiely
Councii Member Jim Woicott
Aiso Present: Ryan Schroeder, City Administrator
John Mickeison, Deputy Director ofPublic Safety/Captain
Bob Long, City Attorney, Kennedy & Graven
Jerry Bourdon, City Engineer, BRAA
Regular Meeting - May 17, 2000
Cottage Grove City Council
Page 2
Elizabeth Johnson, Finance Director
Les Burshten, Public Works Director
Michelie Woife, Asst. City Administrator
Kim Li�dquist, Community Development Director
Mayor Denzer presided over the meeting.
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MOTION BY WOLCOTi", SECONDED �Y SHIELY, TO APPROVE THE FINAL AGENDA. MOTION
CARRIED. 5-0.
PRESENTATIONS
A. Pubiic Works W eek Proclamation
Council Member Shiely read aloud the proclamation, proclaiming the week of May 21-27, 2000, as
"Public Works Week" in the City of Cottage Grove.
B. Preservationist of the Year - Peaceful Grove Methodist Church
Robert Vogel, Historic Preservation Officer, addressed the Council advising that every year during
the second week in May, the Advisory Committee on HistoricPreservation selects an individual or
organization that has made a significant contribution toward preserving historic places in Cottage
Grove. He stated that this year, they recognize the efforts of Peaceful Grove Methodist Church
toward restoring and preserving the Woodward Farm. Mr. Vogel described how the church had put
the old grounds to use, creating a new function with respect to the old function. He said that all new
construction reflected the historic character of the farm and was sympatheticwith old construction.
He noted that the Woodward Farm and Peacefui Grove's respectful restoration of it represents
exactiy what the Preservation Advisory Committee was looking for when it was first formed.
Mayor Denzer presented several members of the church with the Award.
C. Presentation from Great Grove Get-Toqether Committee
Barb Stoffel, Co-Chair of the G�eat Grove Get-Together Committee, described functio�s to be held
and informed Council of information on the City's website located at www.cotta ,cLe-qrove.org, or by
phoning 458-6057, ext. 8. She listed several events, including the fun run, the medallion hunt, a golf
tournament, children's activities, a picnic, a parade, a car show, eta She described scheduled stage
entertainment, educational programs, open mike, raffle, landmark tours, a pageant, and an
appearance by Crunch, mascot of the Timberwolves.
Gouncil Member Shiely noted that it is not too late for businesses to sponsor events.
Julie Tuthiil advised Council regarding the button sales, T-shirt design, and available promotional
incentives received for wearing a button. She listed participating businesses and noted that 2,200
buttons had been sold by non-profit agencies. She listed places to purchase buttons for $2.00 and T-
shirts for $10.00.
Ms. Stoffel stated the Committee needs more volunteers. She described the Great Grove Get
Together as a community festivai for the community, by the community.
Mayor denzer encouraged residents to volunteer.
Regular Meeting — May 17, 2000
Cottage Grove City Council
Page 3
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The minutes of Yhe April 5, 2000 Regular Council Meeting were approved as presented. The minutes of
the Aprii 19, 2000 Regular Council Meeting were apprnved as presented.
CONSENT CALENDAR
MOTiON BY SHIELY, SECONDED BY WOICOTT, TO:
A. ACCEPT AND PLACE ON FILE THE FOLLOWING MINUTES:
i. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF APRIL 11, 2000 AND APRIL 19, 2000.
ii. PARKS, RECREATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMISSION OF APRIL 10, 2000.
iii. PUBLIC WORKS COMMISSION OF APRIL 10, 2000.
B. APPROVE A DONATION OF $2,500 TO THE YOUTH SERVICE BUREAU FOR FIRST
QUARTER SUPPORT.
C. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 00-87, ACCEPTING DONATIONS OF $402.50 FOR THE
PURCHASE OF AN UNBUDGETED THERMAL IMAGE MASK FOR THE FIRE DEPARTMENT.
D. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO: 00-88, ACCEPTWG CITIZEN DONATIONS OF $402.50 fOR THE
GREAT GROVE GET TOGETHER AND COTTAGE GROVE JAYCEES COMMUNITY
CELEBRATIONS.
E. ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 678, AMENDING CHAPTER 2, SECTION 2-41, OF THE COTTAGE
GROVE CITY CODE RELATWG TO COMMISSIONS.
AUTHORIZE ISSUANCE OF A SWGLE-OCCASION GAMBLWG PERMIT TO THE CHURCH
OF ST. RITA, 8694 80 STREET SOUTH, FOR A RAFFLE TO BE HELD SEPTEMBER 9 AND
10, 2000.
G. ADOPT RESOLUT/ON NO. DO-89, AUTHORIZING ISSUANCE OF A BINGO HALL LICENSE TO
PHOENIX PARTNERS OF COTTAGE GROVE.
H. AUTHORIZE ISSUANCE OF A PERSONAL MASSAGE CERTIFICATE TO CURTIS ZABEL.
AUTHORIZE ISSUANCE OF A CONDITIONAL OUTDOOR EVENT PERMIT TO DEMORPS
RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE.
J. ADOPT RE30LUTlON NO. 00-90, APPROVING FINAL PAYMENT OF $87,560.25 TO
RICHARD KNUTSON, INC. ON THE HIDDEN VALLEY 7 ADDITION STREET AND STREET
LIGHTING IMPROVEMENT PROJECT.
K. ADOPT RESOLUTlON NO. 00-91, APPROVING FINAL PAYMENT OF $58,655.32 TO
RICHARD KNUTSON, INC. ON THE JAMAICA AVENUE/97 STREET SOUTH STREET
IMPROVEMENTS (RENEWAL BY ANDERSEN) PROJECT.
L. Removed from Agenda.
M. RECEIVE INFORMATION ON THE WAKOTA BRIDGE/HIGHWAY 61 PROJECT.
Regular Meeting — May 17, 2000
Cottage Grove City Council
Page 4
N. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 00-92, APPROVING A SIMPLE LOT DIVISION APPLICATION TO
DIVIDE A 1.09-ACRE PARCEL INTO TWO SEPARATE LOTS OF RECORD OF 105 FEET BY
250 FEET AND 85 FEET BY 250 FEET AT 9223 — 80 STREET SOUTH.
0. ADOPT RESOLUT/ON NO. 00-93, APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR ON-SITE
TRAFFIC, PARKING, AND PEDESTRIAN SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS AT HILLSIDE
ELEMENTARY SCHOO�, 8177 HILLSIDE TRAIL SOUTH.
ADOPT THE 2001 BUDGET CALENDAR AS PROPOSED.
Q. AUTHORIZE THE PURGHASE OF A JOHN DEERE 4600 TRACTOR FROM GREENIMAGE,
INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $20,914.56 PLUS TAX.
R. ADOPT RESOLUTION_ 00-94, LISTING THOSE PROPERTIES THAT ARE INCLUDED IN
THE RURAL TAXING DISTRICT AS DEFINED IN ORDINANCE NO. 674, WHICH WAS
ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ON JANUARY 19, 2000.
S. ADOPT RESOL!lTION NO. 00-95, APPROVING THE CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT
AMENDMENT FILED BY JACK HINES AUCTION SERVICE, WC. ALLOWING INDOOR
AUCTIONS AND PERIODIC OUTDOOR EVENTS AT MAJESTIC ANTIQUES, 9165 POWT
DOUGLAS ROAD.
T. APPROVE THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION IN COTTAGE GROVE 1999 ANNUAL REPORT.
U. AUTHORIZE THE PURCHASE OF PLAYGROUND EQUJPMENT FOR HAMLET PARK FROM
MIRACLE RECREATION OF MINNESOTA, INC. FOR $23,983.50.
V. AUTHORIZE THE PURCHASE OF PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT FOR PINE TREE PARK
FROM MIRACLE RECREATION OF MINNESOTA, INC. FOR $14,711.10.
W. ADOPT RESOLUTlON NO. 00-96, ACCEPTING DONATIONS FOR $365 ON BEHALF OF THE
PUBLIC SAFETY, FIRE AND RECREATION DEPARTMENTS FOR THE 7 ANNUAL YOUTH
SAFETY CAMP.
X. APPROVE AMENDMENTS TO THE ICMA CITYADMINISTRATOR PENSION PLAN.
MOTION CARRIED. 5-0.
RESPONSE TO PREVIOUSLY RAISED OPEN FORUM ISSUES — None.
PUB HEARINGS - None.
BlD AWARDS
A. 2000 Pavement Rehabilitation Project Jamaica Avenue and 100` Street
Public Works Director Burshten described the nature of the project. He stated that construction
would start in July.
MOTION BY RICE, SECONDED BY WOLCOTT TO ADOPT RESOLUTtON NO. QO-97, AWARDING
BID FOR CONSTRUCTION OF THE 2000 PAVEMENT REHABILITATION PROJECT ON JAMAICA
Regular Meeting — May 17, 2000
Cottage Grove City Councii
Page 5
AVENUE AND 100 STREET SOUTH TO DANNER, INC. FOR $881,497.30. MOTION CARRIED
5-0.
B. Install Garage Doors at the Public Works Facility
Pubiic Works Director Burshten described the project and nature of received bids. He stated that
OSHA recommended replacement of the doors.
MOTION BY WOLCOTT, SECONDED BY SHIELY TO ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 00-98,
AWARDWG BID TO ELITE GARAGE DOOR COMPANY FOR $32,000. MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
UNFINISHED AND NEW BUSINESS
A. Waive the Ordinance Requirements for the Human Services Commission Chair as Regards to
Cumulativ Absences for 2000
City Administrator Ryan Schroeder described the policy regarding volunteer commission attendance.
He stated that staff had reviewed individua�s out of compliance with the policy. He said that the
Human Services Commission Chair is currently out of compliance with the policy.
Council Member Wolcott stated that the Human Services Commission Chair was experiencing a
unique situation as that individuai was a#tending the police academy:
MOTION BY SHIELY, SECONDED BY RICE TO WANING THE ORDINANCE REQUIREMENTS
FOR THE HUMAN SERVICES COMMISSION CHAIR AS REGARDS CUMULATIVE ABSENCES
FOR 2000. MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
�
Community Deveiopment Director Kim Li�dquist described the history of project. She expiained that
a cross-section of different issues were represented. She said that the project would be a year in the
making, provided the group met once a mo�th.
Councii Member Shiely asked how citizens at large wouid be recruited. Ms. Lindquist explained that
volunteers wo�ld be needed, and that staff wouid hopefuily generate interest via
City Bulletin and Cable TV. She said that she was hoping to acquire volunteers who represented a�i
the different geographic regions of the area.
Council Member Kohls asked Ms. Lindquist to clarify issues and give examples of nuisance
ordinances. Ms. Lindquist stated that, for example, ordinances regarding weeds, exterior storage,
maintenance, and disposal issues were needed. She added that some ordinances are archaic and
require updating. She also noted that some ordinances are inappropriately piaced in the zoning
ordinance and need to be moved.
MOTiON BY WOLCOTf, SEGONDED BY SHIELY, TO APPROVE APPOINTMENT OFA
WORKING GROUP TO REWRITE THE GURRENT CITY ORDINANCES RELATING TO NUISANCE
COMPLAWTS AND ZONING ORDINANCE ENFORCEMENT. MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
C. Provide Direction to Staff Reqardinq the Piacement of Advertisinq Signs on Basebaii Outfield Fences
City Administrator Ryan Schroeder described the issue at hand, explaining that the Cottage Grove
Regular Meeting — May 17, 2000
Cottage Grove Cify Councif
Page 6
Basebali Athletic Association has asked to put advertising signage on outfieid fences. He stated that
staff surveyed other communities and found that some do not allow it while others do. He asked
Council for direction, noting that the Parks Commission had expressed some general favor. He
offered that staff would draft an ordinance and bring it to Council for consideration. He
acknowiedged that aesthetic control was a concern.
Public Works Director Les Burshten explained that the bail fields in question were located at
Woodridge and Hamlet Parks. Ne noted that proceeds from the advertising would benefit the athletic
association.
Council Member Shiely requested clarification regarding which agency was responsibie for improving
and maintaining the bali fields. Burshten stated that the City was responsibie for these duties, but the
proceeds would benefit the general fund by reducing costs for fences, benches, and lighting. He
ciarified that the signage would be posted on the inside of the outfieid fences.
Council Member Shiely expressed concern from an aesthetic viewpoint for people who Iive near
those bailparks. Stie suggested implementing strict regulations on kinds and colors of approved
signs. Mr. Burshten ezpiai�ed that the ordinance would be drafted and come bacK before Council for
approvai and the detaiis can be addressed at that time.
Co�ncil Member Kohis expressed agreement with Council Member Shiely, noting that the signs
wouid be unattractive. She asked if a representative from the Cottage Grove Athletic Association
was present. She asked how much revenue potential is involved and whether staff had any idea
about what the signs would look like. She asked that the citizens' enjoyment of the parks not be
diminished. She requested that more communities be surveyed regarding the regulations they use
for such signage.
Council Member Shiely suggested that Council visit parks that ailow such signage, in order to view
the aesthetic impact first-hand.
Tabied for more information.
D. Ratifv Council Consensus from May 3 Meeting and Direct City Administrator to Gontact the
Metropolitan Councii in regard to a"Smart-Growth" Review
City Administrator Ryan Schroeder noted that Council had reached consensus on three (3) items:
1. Encouraging a' regional park
2. Preserving shoreline for public use
3. Ensuring public access to the river
Schroederasked that Councii ratify the consensus and provide direction to draft a letter to the
Metropolitan GounciC regarding "smart-growth° review.
Council Member Shiely stated that she felt that the City Administrator had succinctly captured the
consensus of the meeting. She requested a definition of the term "smart-growth." She also �oted
that Councii had not been informed of any plans by tlie State for the island. She said that she wouid
not support pursuing a regionai park pia� to preciude a state park. She needed to knowthe State's
ideas and long-range goals, because if the State should decide that they are interested in developing
a State park that should remain an option.
City Administrator Schroeder stated that no possible scenario is preciuded by future actions until
assurances are given, letters of intent are issued, etc. He said that at this point and with this action,
Regular Meefing — May 17, 2000
Cottage Grove City Council
Page 7
a state or county park is not precluded, but the action simply provides direction to staff to work with
the Met Council. He said that his definition or understanding of the term "smart-growth" is whatever
you think is the right thing to do.
Commu�ity Development Director Lindquist noted that combinations of things are presented in the
Comprehensive Plan that aflow for variety, mixed-use, and a sense of place at the location. She
called it "new urbanism". She stated that she had received some information from the Metropolitan
Council today that outlined the four (4) tenets of smart growth, and she said she would send a copy
to Councii.
Mayor Denzer stated that a letter of interest does not mean that Council cannot accept or deny the
ideas proposed.
Councii Member Shiely stated that a two-hour workshop by the Metropolitan Councii on Regional
Park planning would be educational.
Council Member Kohls stated that she has attended many seminars aiready, and that the
Metropolitan Councii has a website at www.metrocouncii.org that includes some usefui definitio�s.
She stated that communicating with the Metropolitan Council does not strike the opportunity for an
ail-park scenario, but she wouid like to see that acreage question finalized, specifically defining how
many usable quality acres on the main isiand are-buildable. -Shesaid that buiidable acres difFer from
ownership acreage. She requested a population projection and Iand use and density maps for
metropolitan area for the years 2020 and 2040. She asked if staff proceeded with the study, couid
Council assume that no decision wili be made on land use of the island until the study is completed.
Mayor Denzer answered affirmative�y.
City Administrator Schroeder reminded Council that the property owner could put in an application for
plat at any time: He suggested attempting to move down the path of a Regiona� Park. He noted that
there has been some discussion that the property owner is starting to make some moves toward
platting, but he was uncertain if that was forthcoming or not.
MOTION BY WOLCOTT, SECONDED BY RICE, TO RATIFY THE CITY COUNCI� CONSENSUS
REACHED AT THE MAY 3 MEETWG REGARDWG GREY CLOUD ISLAND. MOTION CARRIED 5-
0.
MOTION BY WOICOTT, SECONDED BY RICE, TO DIRECT THE CITY ADMINISTRATOR TO
DRAFT A LEl TO THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL CHAIR EXPRESSWG INTEREST IN A
"SMART-GROWTH" DEVE�OPMENT REVIEW INCLUDING A REGIONAL PARK AND MIXED-USE
DEVELOPMENT. MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
E. �rove a Variance Anl�lication for Signage at Office Max
Community Development Director Lindquist described the situation stating that staff had
recommended approval of the requested amount of square footage for the signage. She noted that
Pianning Commission deliberations were based on other businesses in the community as they relate
to ordinance criteria.
Kent Klingshirn representative from Pacifica NNN, LLC, provided diagrams of the proposed signage.
MOTION BY SHIELY, SECONDED BY WOLCOTT TO ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 00_99,
APPROVING THE VARIANCE APPLICATION FILED BY PACIFICA, NNN, LLC, TO SECTION 21-
16(B) OF THE CITY'S SIGN ORDINANCE TO INCREASE THE MAXIMUM A�LOWABLE SQUARE
Regular Meeting — May 17, 2000
Cottage Grove City Council
Page 8
FOOTAGE OF 275 SQUARE FEET FOR SIGNAGE AT OFFICE MAX, 9010 JAMAICA AVENUE
SOUTH, TO 321 SQUARE FEET FOR SIGNAGE. MOTION CARRIED. 5-0.
F. Deny Variance Request of the Pahr Family to Board Sheep on Residentialiy Zoned Property
Community Development Director Lindquist described the variance. She explained that the Planning
Commission had reviewed the request in April, a�d concerns are inciusion of farm animais within an
urbanized area of the community; the precedent set, and two recent incidents in other areas. She
stated that she be�ieved that the situation could open up a controversy for adtlitionai properties in
similar situations.
City Attorney Bob Long addressed the question of allowing the variance for a limited period. He
noted that the variance runs with land, wouid be soid with the land, etc. He noted that the variance
wouid not be limited to sheep, and that a iandowner could potentiaily have any kind of farm animal
raised there, with no limits. He addressed using hardship findings as a way to allow the variance, but
stated that it was too creative as it couid come back to haunt tlie City with subsequent parties. He
said that if Councii did find hardship and allowed the variance, they need to understand other
considerations, such as once the variance is in place, they are forfeiting the next opportunity to say
no in similar circumstances.
Gouncil Member Shiely asked if the Gity had any other kind of permitting process that would allow an
unusual situation like this on alimited basis: City Attorney Long stated that hewas noYaware of any,
and that once the framework is set up in the zoning code, there is no other wayto address it.
Councii Member Shiely stated that she looksat some things aliowed in the City a�d couid not believe
that 4H-ers could not be allowed to do this on a temporary basis. She said that it is sad that we
cannot make it happen in what used to be a rurai community.
Gouncil Member Kohis stated that she agreed with Councii Member Shiely's stance. She noted the
thorough prese�tation by the Pahrs. She stated that she was frustrated at denying this project. She
asked about sunset clauses.
City Attorney �ong stated that Council could adopt the authority to do an interim use permit, although
that is typically done with zoning type uses.
Counci� Member Kohis asked the Pahrs about clianging the verbiage of the variance to add "short-
term, educationai uses at discretion of Councii". She stated that she would like to see that pursued.
City Attorney Long advised that such a situation couid not be solely at the discretion of Council.
Council Member Kohls stated that there was a benefit to the community involved in this project, and it
should be allowed if other situations benefit the community as welf. She said that she feels like the
Councii's hands are tied.
Mayor Denzer stated that Council does not have a choice under the ordinance that exists today. He
said that Council wouid have to change the ordinance, which would take mo�ths and not help the
Pafirs at all.
Council Member Wolcott complimented the Pahrs on their presentation. He agreed that 4H is an
outstanding program, and that while their project has lots of inerit, the City's ordinances simply do not
ailowfor it He said that the request for three different variances is too much, and is inconsistent with
ordinance regulations and the intent of ordinances. He said that a hardship has not been proven,
and all involved commissions recommend denial. He said that while he appreciated their efforts, he
sees no alternatives but to deny the appiication.
Regular Meeting — May 17, 2000
Cottage (3rove City Council
Page 9
Council Member Shiely stated thaf there are probably many farm animals kept in the City but the
Pahrs went through the process and are being denied. She noted that they could have tried to sneak
it by, but they did not. She expressed her personal frustration, thanked the Pahrs for their time and
effort, and apologized for the result. Mayor Denzer concurred.
MOTION BY WOLCOTT, SECONDED BY RICE TO ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 00-100, DENYING
THE RPPLICATION FILED BY REBEKAH, CAROLYN, AND SAMUEL PAHR FOR A VARIANCE TO
SECTION 28-26, FARM ANIMALS, OF THE ZONING ORDINANCE TO BOARD THREE SHEEP ON
RESIDENTIALLY-ZONED PROPERTY. MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
RESPONSE TO PREVIOUSLY RAISED COUNCIL COMMENTS AND REQUESTS — None.
COUNCIL COMMENTS AND REQUESTS
Council Member Kohis asked for information regarding the proposed master plan in the area of the
industrial park and adjacent residential area. She requested ciarification on the schedule for
implementation.
GityAdminrstrator Schroederstated that he had scheduled a rneetfng with 3M on JuneS to discuss
drainage issues. He stated that prior to that meeting, he expect to have preliminary information from the
engineering firm in preparation for meeting, but that he doesn't know where the meeting wili lead. He
mentioned the work being done on creating buffers against manufacturing uses.
Councit Member Kohis stated that Cottage Grove seems to have a high nitrate problem within certain
wells. She said that Washington County has done surveys and informed that it is undergoing a 2-3 year
study, specificaily in Cottage Grove and Grey Cloud Township, as concentrations are higher here than i�
the rest of the county and metro area. She stated that the health department and other agencies are
involved. She stated that it is important for the pubiic to be aware, and that the goal of the study is to find
the source of the nitrates.
City Administrator Schroeder stated that he had met with the Washington County Enviro�mental
Committee and the PCA, and that they had informed him that they had found some elevated nitrate
levels, but most were well below the drinking water standard. He also clarified that the wells in question
are a�l private household wells, not City welis.
Council Member Shiely asked residents to support the GreaY Grove Get Togethec She reiterated that
the parade starts at 10`.30 AM Saturday; June 10. She encouraged comrnunity groups to co�sider
organizing a game or manning a booth to raise funds. She encouraged residents to get involved in the
event.
PAY BILLS
MOTION BY WOLCOTT, SECONDED BY RICE, TO APPROVE PAYMENT OF CHECK NUMBERS
113144 TO 113409 TOTALING $639,848.41. MOTION CARRIED. 5-0.
WORKSHOP SESSION
A. Pubiic Works Reorqanization
Assistant City Administrator Wolfe informed Council that two vacancies were occuTring in the Public
Works Department this summer, both in leadership positions. She asked Council to look at how the
Regular Meeting — May 17, 2000
Cottage Grove Cify Council
Page 10
department is structured, and how benefits and shortfalis can be used or changed. She stated that
the buiiding maintenance issue is a current frustration. She suggested discontinuing the privatized
contracts and adding iwo part-time janitoria� staff to cover the work.
Some discussion ensued regarding janitorial options. Public Works Director Burshten expressed
dissatisfaction that resuits from a lack of thoroughness and poor use of time.
Council discussed bidding out the services, and costs were compared between outsourcing and
hiring in-house.
Ms. Wolfe advised Council of the retirement of the working foremart and a lead worker. She
discussed concerns about empioyee supervision and discipline, �oting that everyone except Mr.
Burshten is in the same bargaini�g unit, making it difficult to discipiine people. She outlined the pros
and cons of severa( different options, and stressed the need for a Ievel of supervision between the
director and the field workers. She identified a need for help in a more administrative role.
Ms. Woife outlined two options:
O tp ion 1— leave department structure as is, fill the retirement vacancies, and acquire two janitors;
O tp ion 2— add two supervisors each over two areas, add a ja�itor, eliminate a lead worker position,
and eliminate one public-seruice worker to pay foradditions.
Council discussed the merit of both options as well as affordability.
Ms. Woife noted that the whofe proposal is more than dropping and adding, and includes
streamlining workflow, reducing overfiow of duties and overlapping, and adding more balance in the
sphere of supervision.
Council discussed methods of recruiting supervisors and what tasks might be invoived under the job
description.
Council Member Kohis suggested returning John Fredrickson to the Public Works Department and
hiring an ice arena manager.
Councii Member Shie�y suggested eliminating the title of Assistant Pubiic Works Director and making
it Director of Parks and Recreation instead.
Ms. Wolfe expiained that in most cities, Park and Recreation is separate from Public Works with a
separate director: She noted tMat Park and Recreation is not directly involved irr park maintena�ce.
Some discussion ensued regarding the duties of the athletic association and the division of work
between Public Works and Park and Recreation.
Councii Member Woicott voiced his support of Option 2. Council Member Rice concurred.
CLOSED SESSION
MOTION BY WOLCOTT, SECONDED BY SHIELY, TO TEMPORARILY CLOSE THE REGULAR
MEETING. MOTION CARRIED. 5-0.
Present: Mayor John Denzer
Councii Member Jim Wolcott
Council Member Cheryi Kohis
Regular Meeting - May 17, 2000
Cottage Grove City Council
Page t 1
Council Member Pat Rice
Council Mernber Cheryt Kohis
Also Present: Ryan Schroeder, City Administrator
Micheile Woife, Assistant City Administrator
Bob Long, City Attorney, Kennedy & Graven
Pursuant to the open meeting Iaw, the Council held a closed session to discuss an employee issue and
union negotiations.
MOTION BY RICE, SECONDED BY WO�COTT, TO ADJOURN THE CLOSED SESSION AND
RECONVENE THE REGULAR MEETING. MOTION CARRIED. 5-0.
n�]II�I�1:7�1�1����
MOTION BY RICE, SECONDED BY KOHLS, TO ADJOURN THE REGULAR MEETING AT 11:00 P.M.
MOTION CARRIED. 5-0.
Respectfully submitted,
Caron M. Stransky
City Clerk
Lori Amundson
TimesaverOtFSite Secretarial, Inc.