Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2002-02-11 MINUTESCITY OF COTTAGE GROVE PUBLIC WORKS COMMISSION February 11, 2002 Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a meeting of the Public Works Commission of Cottage Grove was duly held at the Public Works Garage, 8635 West Point Douglas Road, Cottage Grove, Minnesota, on February 11, 2002, at 7:00 p.m. 1. CALL TO ORDER Chair Ken Boyden called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. 2. ROLL CALL Members Present: Ken Boyden, Robert Eddy, Steve Ingram, Dan Massarotti, Tim Mathison, Randy Eckstein, Jan Wuorenma Staff Present: Les Burshten, Public Works Director Harry Taylor, Public Works Supervisor Allan Larson, Public Works Technician Also Present: Judy Hunter, SeniorPlanner, Washington County Waste Division James Wolcott, City Council Member Willie Tennis, Tennis Sanitation Greg Tennis, Tennis Sanitation 3. APPROVE MINUTES On a motion by Dan Massarotti seconded by Bob Eddy, the January 14, 2002 Public Works Commission minutes were approved unanimously. 4. ADDITIONAL AGENDA ITEMS None 5. NEW BUSINESS A. Public Collection of Solid Waste — Judy Hunter, Washington County Public Works Director Les Burshten explained that Judy Hunter of Washington County is attending tonighYs meeting to present and explain the concept of public collection of solid waste. Licensed haulers in Cottage Grove were notified of tonighYs meeting. Public Works Commission February 11, 2002 — Page 2 Judy Hunter thanked the Commission for allowing time on the agenda to discuss this issue. She went on to explain that in June of 2001, the County Board directed staff to look at the idea of public collection, however, at this point, iYs more of a study to iook at different options. The study is a joint venture between Ramsey and Washington Counties and Ms. Hunter noted a workshop is scheduled for April 25, 2002. Many citizens are concerned why the govemment should be involved in solid waste management, however, Hunter explained the government has been involved for more than 20 years. Through different state statutes, the government is required to ensure the proper management of waste. What is the problem? Hunter stated that goals are not being met in protecting the environment with the judicious use of landfills. Society is generating too much waste and some of the recycling is stagnant or decreasing. in addition, many resources are being thrown in landfilis and not being used. Hunter noted that from 1996 to 2000, the amount of waste grew by more than 18°/a, while population in Ramsey and Washington Counties grew by only 5%. She went on to state that 45% of what is thrown out could be recycled and 58% could have been composted. 117 million aluminum cans are tossed in the garbage each year. The collection system overall, stated Hunter, is working weli. Most of the garbage generated by Washington and Ramsey Counties has been brought to the Resource Recovery Center in Newport, however, in past years some companies have chosen not to utilize the facility but to bring the waste to their own landfill. The landfill industry states that the landfilis of today are buiit differently than in the past with new types of liners and liner material. Why should we care? Ramsey and Washington Counties combined currently produce nearly a million tons of waste each year. Washington County alone produces about two hundred tons of waste. How this waste is handled affects not only the environment, but public health. What can we do? The State of Minnesota states to "pay as we go" to handle waste to prevent future problems: ■ Reduce — reuse — recycle — compost ■ Convert waste to energy ■ Use landfills wisely. The above scenarios are mostly happening, however a number of factors including waste growth, recycling rates, hidden costs and lost opportunities intertere with those goals. Public Works Commission February 11, 2002 — Page 3 Why change the collection process, if the prob/em is after collection? Hunter stated the courts ruled back in 1994 that waste is a commodity much like wheat or corn and can be moved wherever the person hauling it wants it to go. The market favors disposal and the market is not currently in line with the public values. A different way of providing collection may be a way to meet goals. The Resource Recovery Center in Newport essentially produces refuse fuel which resembles bailed paper. This fuel, replacing coal, is burned at the Red Wing Xcel Energy power plant. Because of the cost of utilizing the Newport facility, a large portion of waste has been going to landfilis. Hunter mentioned that it costs $67 per ton to drop the waste at the center, however, the haulers have a contract this year to drop waste for $34 per ton. Beginning this year, the county received funding from the state which comes from the sales tax residents pay on their garbage bill. What exactly is pu6lic collection? Public collection occurs when a city, township or county provides or arranges collection services for garbage, recyclables or other wastes. If public collection is adopted, this would not mean county trucks would collect trash. What feedback has been heard? Assurance is wanted that locai waste haulers can stay in business. The county also wishes to address environmental protection issues and neighborhood concerns whether it involves traffic or truck emissions. What would happen? Hunter stated service standards would be established with the hauler to assure waste is managed in accordance with plans. Counties would contract with private companies to provide trash service and one or more haulers could provide this service, depending on the community preference. There are a variety of ways to enter into a contract with haulers whether iYs by direct negotiation or obtaining requests for proposais. At this point Commission Member Dan Massarotti stated there is a lack of definition in this community regarding what Kems are recyclable. Massarotti has placed items out for recycling only to find certain items left in the bin by the hauler with no explanation why the items were not taken. He is concerned that situations like this may keep residents from recycling. Commission Member Eddy has a list of recyclabie items posted in his home, however, noted the list has not been updated in quite some time and some information may need to be changed. He suggested updated recycling information be sent with bills from the trash hauler. It was noted some new city residents may not have the information at all and increasing the education of the homeowner to recycle should be emphasized. Public Works Commission February 11, 2002 — Page 4 Commission Chair Ken Boyden stated he wasn't totally comfortable with the idea of public collection. He understands the county is attempting to keep the transfer station up and running, however, has reservations with a county or public agency taking over and wants to make certain local haulers have the ability to compete in as fair a manner as possible. Hunter stated this also is a strong sentiment that county commissioners have expressed, however, if nothing is done, what will happen? Hunter said that some businesses are not recycling because of the hassle. Boyden suggested that perhaps a fee could be charged to businesses that do not recycle. Massarotti reminded that many trash haulers will not accept recyclable cardboard larger than three feet square. Commission Member Tim Mathison added that the garbage hauler serving his construction sites collects the cardboard once per month and that this costs him, the builder, more money. Burshten inquired if there's a possibility the Resource Recovery Plant could be overrun. Hunter responded that this would have to be managed, whether another line is put in at the plant or whether capacity is increased. She noted that if no pians are in place, nothing can be done at this point. Commission Member Jan Wuorenma inquired what can and should the Pubiic Works Commission do regarding this solid waste issue? Hunter responded that public education can be increased and added the county has a website with a variety of information about recycling. Ms. Hunter was thanked for her presentation this evening. B. Commission Re-Appointments/Review of Commission Absence Policy The policy of notifying City Clerk, Caron Stransky, of absences was discussed. Burshten indicated a form letter will be distributed for commission members to forward to City Clerk Stransky should a meeting be missed. The importance of good attendance for commission members was stressed. At this time, outgoing Commission Members Robert Eddy and Tim Mathison were presented certificates of appreciation and thanked for their six years of service on the Public Works Commission. C. Technical Review 6.9 CASES ZA01-058, PP01-059, AND SP01-060 (Continued from 8l27/01). Thompson Land Development has applied for a zoning amendment to change the zoning from R-2.5, Residential, and R-5, Medium Density Residential, to PUD, Planned Unit Development; and a preliminary plat and site plan review with variance of a multi- family residential develo�ment consisting of 300 dwelling units to be located on the northwest corner of 70 Street and Hinton Avenue. Burshten explained that a different number of units is being proposed, (a change from the original plan). Public Works Commission February 11, 2002 — Page 5 6.1 CASE V02-011 Donald and Cynthia Oreskovich have applied for a variance to Title 11-9E-5A, R-4 Low Density Residential District Development Standards, to allow construction of a garage addition 19-feet from the side property line when a 20-foot side yard setback is required. The property is located at 7499 Hidden Valley Court. Case continues. 6. OLD BUSINESS A. Thompson Grove Pavement Manaqement — Update Burshten explained that a newsletter has just been completed and will be mailed to the residents of the Pavement Management area this week. The newsletter covers topics such as mailboxes, sanitary sewer services, driveways, etc. Public Works Supervisor Harry Taylor stated the importance of having control on the City's right-of- way for the sanitary sewer service. Commission Member Steve Ingram suggested that the homeowner's responsibility for connections begin right at the water main. Burshten responded that this suggestion may be brought back for further discussion. Burshten went on to state that Public Works Staff met with Xcel Energy representatives recently and indicated City staff is somewhat concerned about gas mains to be reinstalled. Xcel Energy was notified of the upcoming reconstruction some time ago and it was thought the gas main work would begin before the road reconstruction commences. Xcel has been encouraged to install double mains, however, the reorganization (NSP to Xcel Energy) has brought forth big changes in the company. The City's main concern is that Xcel keep working ahead of the contractor. Concrete driveway aprons will be constructed in the pavement management area. Burshten added the City WILL NOT be getting into the driveway business. Residents may be given lists of licensed concrete contractors should they wish additional driveway work be done during reconstruction. Boulevards will be restored with seed and hydro mulch processes rather than sod. City Staff and Bonestroo engineers have reduced the Thompson Grove pavement management project from a three-year construction period to two years. 7. PUBLIC WORKS UPDATE Burshten explained that a workshop session is scheduled for the March 6, 2002 Council Meeting in order to discuss the Welihead Protection Program. Spring C/ean Up will take place on Saturday, May 4 from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm. In a change from past years, the event will be one day only. 8. CITY COUNCIL UPDATE None Public Works Commission February 11, 2002 — Page 6 9. ENGINEER'S REPORT. No discussion. 10. COMMISSON COMMENTS AND REQUESTS None. Motion to adjourn was made, seconded and unanimously carried. Respectfully submitted, Patricia Storby CITY OF COTTAGE GROVE PUBLIC WORKS COMMISSION February 11, 2002 Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a meeting of the Public Works Commission of Cottage Grove was duly held at the Public Works Garage, 8635 West Point Douglas Road, Cottage Grove, Minnesota, on February 11, 2002, at 7:00 p.m, 1. CALL TO ORDER Chair Ken Boyden called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. 2. ROLL CALL Members Present: Ken Boyden, Robert Eddy, Steve Ingram, Dan Massarotti, Tim Mathison, Randy Eckstein, Jan Wuorenma Staff Present: Les Burshten, Public Works Director Harry Taylor, Public Works Supervisor Allan Larson, Public Works Technician Also Present: Judy Hunter, Senior Planner, Washington County Waste Division James Wolcott, City Council Member Willie Tennis, Tennis Sanitation Greg Tennis, Tennis Sanitation 3. APPROVE MINUTES On a motion by Dan Massarotti seconded by Bob Eddy, the January 14, 2002 Public Works Commission minutes were approved unanimously. 4. ADDI710NAL AGENDA ITEMS None 5. NEW BUSINESS A. Public Collection of Solid Waste — Judy Hunter, Washington County Public Works Director Les Burshten explained that Judy Hunter of Washington County is attending tonighYs meeting to present and explain the concept of public collection of solid waste. Licensed haulers in Cottage Grove were notified of tonighYs meeting. Public Works Commission February 11, 2002 — Page 2 Judy Hunter thanked the Commission for allowing time on the agenda to discuss this issue. She went on to explain that in June of 2001, the County Board directed staff to look at the idea of public collection, however, at this point, iYs more of a study to look at different options. The study is a joint venture between Ramsey and Washington Counties and Ms. Hunter noted a workshop is scheduled for April 25, 2002. Many citizens are concemed why the govemment should be involved in solid waste management, however, Hunter explained the government has been involved for more than 20 years. Through different state statutes, the government is required to ensure the proper management of waste. What is the problem? Hunter stated that goals are not being met in protecting the environment with the judicious use of landfills. Society is generating too much waste and some of the recyciing is stagnant or decreasing. In addition, many resources are being thrown in landfiils and not being used. Hunter noted that from 1996 to 2000, the amount of waste grew by more than 18%, while population in Ramsey and Washington Counties grew by only 5%. She went on to state that 45% of what is thrown out could be recycled and 58% could have been composted. 117 million aluminum cans are tossed in the garbage each year. The collection system overall, stated Hunter, is working well. Most of the garbage generated by Washington and Ramsey Counties has been brought to the Resource Recovery Center in Newport, however, in past years some companies have chosen not to utilize the facility but to bring the waste to their own landfili. The landfill industry states that the landfills of today are built differently than in the past with new types of liners and liner material. Why should we care? Ramsey and Washington Counties combined currently produce neariy a million tons of waste each year. Washington County alone produces about two hundred tons of waste. How this waste is handled affects not only the environment, but pubiic health. What can we do? The State of Minnesota states to "pay as we go" to handle waste to prevent future problems: ■ Reduce — reuse — recycle — compost ■ Convert waste to energy ■ Use landfills wisely. The above scenarios are mostly happening, however a number of factors including waste growth, recycling rates, hidden costs and lost opportunities interfere with those goals. Public Works Commission February 11, 2002 — Page 3 Why change fhe collection process, if the problem is after collection? Hunter stated the courts ruled back in 1994 that waste is a commodity much like wheat or corn and can be moved wherever the person hauling it wants it to go. The market favors disposal and the market is not currently in line with the public values. A different way of providing collection may be a way to meet goals. The Resource Recovery Center in Newport essentially produces refuse fuel which resembles bailed paper. This fuel, replacing coal, is burned at the Red Wing Xcel Energy power plant. Because of the cost of utilizing the Newport facility, a large portion of waste has been going to landfills. Hunter mentioned that it costs $67 per ton to drop the waste at the center, however, the haulers have a contract this year to drop waste for $34 per ton. Beginning this year, the county received funding from the state which comes from the sales tax residents pay on their garbage bill. What exactly is public collecfion? Public collection occurs when a city, township or county provides or arranges collection services for garbage, recyclables or other wastes. If public coilection is adopted, this would not mean county trucks would collect trash. What feedback has been heard? Assurance is wanted that local waste haulers can stay in business. The county also wishes to address environmental protection issues and neighborhood concerns whether it involves tra�c or truck emissions. What would happen? Hunter stated service standards would be established with the hauler to assure waste is managed in accordance with plans. Counties would contract with private companies to provide trash service and one or more haulers could provide this service, depending on the community preference. There are a variety of ways to enter into a contract with haulers whether iYs by direct negotiation or obtaining requests for proposals. At this point Commission Member Dan Massarotti stated there is a lack of definition in this community regarding what items are recyclable. Massarotti has placed items out for recycling only to find certain items left in the bin by the hauler with no explanation why the items were not taken. He is concerned that situations like this may keep residents from recycling. Commission Member Eddy has a list of recyclable items posted in his home, however, noted th2 list has not been updated in quite some time and some information may need to be changed. He suggested updated recycling information be sent with bills from the trash hauler. It was noted some new city residents may not have the information at all and increasing the education of the homeowner to recycle should be emphasized. Public Works Commission February 11, 2002 — Page 4 Commission Chair Ken Boyden stated he wasn't totally comfortable with the idea of public collection. He understands the county is attempting to keep the transfer station up and running, however, has reservations with a county or public agency taking over and wants to make certain local haulers have the ability to compete in as fair a manner as possible. Hunter stated this also is a strong sentiment that county commissioners have expressed, however, if nothing is done, what will happen? Hunter said that some businesses are not recycling because of the hassle. Boyden suggested that perhaps a fee could be charged to businesses that do not recycle. Massarotti reminded that many trash haulers will not accept recyclable cardboard larger than three feet square. Commission Member Tim Mathison added that the garbage hauler serving his construction sites collects the cardboard once per month and that this costs him, the builder, more money. Burshten inquired if there's a possibility the Resource Recovery Plant could be overrun. Hunter responded that this would have to be managed, whether another line is put in at the plant or whether capacity is increased. She noted that if no plans are in place, nothing can be done at this point. Commission Member Jan Wuorenma inquired what can and should the Public Works Commission do regarding this solid waste issue? Hunter responded that public education can be increased and added the county has a website with a variety of information about recycling. Ms. Hunter was thanked for her presentation this evening. B. Commission Re-Appointments/Review of Commission Absence Policy The policy of notifying City Clerk, Caron Stransky, of absences was discussed. Burshten indicated a form letter will be distributed for commission members to fonvard to City Clerk Stransky should a meeting be missed. The importance of good attendance for commission members was stressed. At this time, outgoing Commission Members Robert Eddy and Tim Mathison were presented certificates of appreciation and thanked for their six years of service on the Pubiic Works Commission. C. Technicai Review 6.9 CASES ZA01-058, PP01-059, AND SP01-060 (Continued from 8l27/01). Thompson Land Development has applied for a zoning amendment to change the zoning from R-2.5, Residential, and R-5, Medium Density Residential, to PUD, Planned Unit Development; and a preliminary plat and site plan review with variance of a multi- family residential develo�ment consisting of 300 dwelling units to be located on the northwest corner of 70 Street and Hinton Avenue. Burshten explained that a different number of units is being proposed, (a change from the original pian). Public Works Commission February 11, 2002 — Page 5 6.1 CASE V02-011 Donald and Cynthia Oreskovich have applied for a variance to Title 11-9E-5A, R-4 Low Density Residential District Development Standards, to allow construction of a garage addition 19-feet from the side property line when a 20-foot side yard setback is required. The property is located at 7499 Hidden Valley Court. Case continues. 6. OLD BUSINESS A. Thompson Grove Pavement Manaaement — Update Burshten explained that a newsletter has just been completed and will be mailed to the residents of the Pavement Management area this week. The newsletter covers topics such as mailboxes, sanitary sewer seivices, driveways, etc. Pubiic Works Supervisor Harry Taylor stated the importance of having control on the City's right-of- way for the sanitary sewer service. Commission Member Steve Ingram suggested that the homeowner's responsibility for connections begin right at the water main. Burshten responded that this suggestion may be brought back for further discussion. Burshten went on to state that Public Works Staff met with Xcel Energy representatives recently and indicated City staff is somewhat concerned about gas mains to be reinstalled. Xcel Energy was notified of the upcoming reconstruction some time ago and it was thought the gas main work would begin before the road reconstruction commences. Xcel has been encouraged to install double mains, however, the reorganization (NSP to Xcel Energy) has brought forth big changes in the company. The City's main concern is that Xcel keep working ahead of the contractor. Concrete driveway aprons will be constructed in the pavement management area. Burshten added the City WILL NOT be getting into the driveway business. Residents may be given lists of licensed concrete contractors should they wish additional driveway work be done during reconstruction. Boulevards will be restored with seed and hydro mulch processes rather than sod. City Staff and Bonestroo engineers have reduced the Thompson Grove pavement management project from a three-year construction period to two years. 7. PUBLIC WORKS UPDATE Burshten explained that a workshop session is scheduled for the March 6, 2002 Council Meeting in order to discuss the Wellhead Protection Program. Spring Clean Up will take place on Saturday, May 4 from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm. In a change from past years, the event will be one day only. 8. CITY COUNCIL UPDATE None Public Works Commission February 11, 2002 — Page 6 ENGINEER'S REPORT. No discussion. 10. COMMISSON COMMENTS AND REQUESTS None. Motion to adjourn was made, seconded and unanimously carried. Respectfully submitted, Patricia Storby