Anoka City Council
Regular MeetingAnoka, MN · December 2, 2019
Minutes
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ANOKA CITY COUNCIL
ANOKA CITY HALL
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
DECEMBER 2, 2019
1. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Rice called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m., followed by the Pledge of
Allegiance.
2. ROLL CALL
Present at roll call: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Barnett, Freeburg, Skogquist, and
Wesp.
Staff present: City Manager Greg Lee; Police Chief Eric Peterson; Electric Director Greg
Geiger; Community Development Director Doug Borglund; Recreation Manager Nichole
Jenks; Finance Director Brenda Springer; Public Services Director Mark Anderson; and
City Attorney Scott Baumgartner.
Absent at roll call: None.
3. COUNCIL MINUTES
3.1 Minutes of the November 18, 2019, Regular Meeting.
Councilmember Skogquist requested the following corrections:
Page 8, first paragraph: “He said the school spoke about responsibility
to close the gate on non-school days but the goal was to routinely close them.
stating it is good to have secure access to the site.”
Page 13, Paragraph 5: “…and was is eligible ineligible for moving expenses…”
Motion by Councilmember Barnett, seconded by Councilmember Freeburg, to
waive the reading and approve the November 4, 2019, Regular Meeting minutes
as corrected.
Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried.
4. OPEN FORUM
4.1 Police Activity Update.
Police Chief Eric Peterson reported a few accidents due to the recent snowstorm
then spoke about an increase in vehicle thefts and valuables from vehicles and
reminded the public not to leave valuables in their cars. He spoke about the
landlord meeting held and the topic of tenant screening and shared how the
networking that occurs here is a valuable portion of the meeting to help build
relationships. Chief Peterson said the next safety seminar would be held
December 5 with a focus on fraud and avoiding scams and the intent to host more
in 2020, shared about the upcoming Home Alone Safety Programs for youth that
highlight kitchen safety, internet safety, and other topics, then encouraged the
community to attend the tree lighting ceremony this Saturday at City Hall.
Councilmember Skogquist asked where is the call center and 911 calls go to?
Chief advised it is in the lower level of government center, an impressive facility
with all the technology and ability to track officers via GPS and cell phone uses,
State Patrol, DNR, all officers in County.
5. PUBLIC HEARING(S)
5.1 2020 Combined Street Improvement Project; Public Improvement Hearing (Street
Surface Improvement Project (SSIP).
RES/2020 Combined Street Improvement Project; Order Project and Authorize
the Preparation of Plans and Specifications (Street Surface Improvement Project).
RESOLUTION
Engineering Technician Ben Nelson shared a background report stating on
October 16, 2019, an informational neighborhood meeting was held at Green
Haven Golf Course and Event Center for the project to further educate the
property owners on our street program and solicit input from the neighborhood.
Overall the residents were in favor of the projects. On October 21, 2019, City
Council adopted a resolution approving the feasibility report and setting the
public improvement hearing for December 2, 2019, in accordance with the public
improvement and property assessment process set forth in Statute. Mr. Nelson
said all of the benefitted property owners were sent notice of the public
improvement hearing and the notice was published in the Anoka County Union
Herald. He noted the public improvement hearing is to address the feasibility of
the project and whether or not the project should proceed. He stated the streets
proposed to be included in the 2020 Street Surface Improvement project were in
the neighborhoods of the Cutter Grove Addition, River Terrace Addition, and the
area bounded by 38th Avenue, 7th Avenue and Bunker Lake Boulevard (CSAH
116). The estimated project cost of the Street Surface Improvement Project is
$3,509,000 which includes 5% for construction contingency and 10% for
engineering, legal, administrative, and fiscal cost. Mr. Nelson outlined the total
estimated costs and asked the Council to hold the public hearing.
Mayor Rice opened the public hearing at 7:13 p.m.
Being no comments Mayor Rice closed the public hearing at 7:13 p.m.
NOTE: By motion from Councilmember Freeburg, which was seconded by
Councilmember Wesp, and by a unanimous vote of the Council, agenda item 9.1
was moved up on the agenda and acted upon at this point.
Councilmember Skogquist asked about the proposed raingarden areas and how
these would help address some of the drainage issues in the area and suggested
reviewing the area in the southwest corner. Mr. Nelson said the Anoka
Conservation District was helping select locations for raingardens along with the
residents.
Councilmember Barnett spoke about the need for interested candidates to have
raingardens on their property and the concern if no one chooses to do so. Mr.
Nelson noted staff hosted an engagement meeting with property owners and have
received three commitments for raingardens already which will be followed up
with a letter of intent.
Councilmember Freeburg asked how salt accumulation from ponds will affect
vegetation. Mr. Nelson said plantings will be selected that were salt resistant.
Motion by Councilmember Barnett, seconded by Councilmember Skogquist, to
adopt a resolution approving the 2020 Combined Street Improvement Project;
Street Surface Improvement Project.
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Barnett, Freeburg, Skogquist,
and Wesp voted in favor. Motion carried.
5.2 2020 Combined Street Improvement Project; Public Improvement Hearing (Bob
Ehlen Drive Area SRP Project).
RES/2020 Combined Street Improvement Project; Order Project and Authorize
the Preparation of Plans and Specifications (Bob Ehlen Drive Area SRP Project).
RESOLUTION
Mr. Nelson shared a background report stating an informational neighborhood
meeting was held at Green Haven Golf Course and Event Center for the project to
further educate the property owners on the city’s street program and solicit input
from the neighborhood. Overall the residents were in favor of the projects and on
October 21, 2019 City Council adopted a resolution approving the feasibility
report and setting the public improvement hearing for December 2, 2019. He
stated on November 6, 2019 an engagement meeting was held for the property
owners along Polk Street west of 7th Avenue at City Hall to solicit input on the
proposed infrastructure change, a raised center median on 7th Avenue south of
Highway 10 that would limit the access at Polk Street to the neighborhood. In
general, the residents would not prefer the limited access to the neighborhood. He
said the project is proposing a number of new infrastructure changes which
consisted of the an access change at the intersection of Polk Street and 7th Avenue
restricting access to the neighborhood, watermain extensions on 8th Avenue from
Bob Ehlen Drive to Polk Street, cul-de-sac at the end of 8th Avenue alley with an
infiltration basin, a new street light mid-block on Polk Street between 7th Avenue
and 8th Avenue, and relocation of street lights to mid-block on Bob Ehlen Drive
and Harrison Street between 7th Avenue and 8th Avenue. Mr. Nelson said Council
should be aware the first infrastructure change included changing the access into
the neighborhood. Based on feedback from the neighborhood meeting staff is
proposing not to install the center median along 7th Avenue with the Bob Ehlen
Area SRP project. The center median shall be considered when Anoka County
reconstructs 7th Avenue south of Highway 10. At this time, the County does not
have this segment of 7th Avenue in their capital improvement plan.
Mr. Nelson said the estimated project cost of the Bob Ehlen Area SRP Project is
$1,632,000, which includes 5% for construction contingency and 10% for
engineering, legal, administrative, and fiscal cost. The total estimated costs were
shared and assessments are proposed to each benefiting property within the SRP
Project Area in accordance with the Street Reconstruction Assessment Policy
adopted by City Council in October 1999. The typical 80-foot residential lot
assessment would be $7,570 based on the policy and the assessments would be
levied over a 10-year period at a 5% interest rate. The annual payment for a
$7,570 assessment is approximately $986.
Mayor Rice opened the public hearing at 7:21 p.m.
Dave Putnam, representing property owners at 725 Polk Street, asked about
reasons why no sidewalk was included in the project as one was needed for safety
then inquired about the boulevard tree and if it could be relocated if planned to be
removed. Mr. Nelson said staff will have the City Forester review the area to see
if the tree could be relocated or protected.
Mr. Putnam shared concerns about people crossing the street in this area and the
need for a pedestrian crossing signal. Mr. Nelson said there was no change
planned to Polk Street at 7th Avenue and no center median would be installed at
this time based on public input but that staff would review the sidewalk extension
possibility.
Mr. Dubrawski, 736 Polk Street, asked about the public engagement process and
the conclusion of no changes to 7th Avenue by Polk Street as he thought there was
consensus to change based on impacts of the number of vehicles on Polk Street.
Mr. Nelson explained input from the neighborhood meeting from property owners
on the west side said the change would have affected them too much and received
the direction for no change, adding input was about equal regarding the right-
in/right-out.
Mr. Dubrawski commented how people drive too fast by Federal Cartridge and do
not follow the yield sign and suggested a stop sign be installed at their gate. Mr.
Nelson said staff will review the speed study done three years but recalled traffic
was under 30 mph at that time.
Councilmember Barnett suggested installing a speed bump in this area to help
slow traffic. Mr. Nelson said speed bumps are not typically installed in the public
right of way because of damage to snow plows but said staff will share the
concern with Federal Cartridge to see what can be done.
Councilmember Skogquist said the comment will be shared with management at
Federal Cartridge’s upcoming holiday event. Mr. Nelson shared options that
included narrowing the street or bump-outs but how the street was only one block
long.
Lowell Hokestrom, Harrison Street, asked about the proposed schedule and how
the City would control traffic in and out, especially with semi-trucks from Federal
Cartridge. Mr. Nelson said staff is working with Federal Cartridge and Pentair to
address semi-truck traffic to access off Main Street, adding there is no proposed
staging of the project but that residents will always have access and the road will
be passable each day and said a full-time project inspector will be onsite during
construction for questions and concerns.
Mr. Putnam asked about the alley 8th Avenue, reasons for the cul-de-sac, and the
assessment rate for residents on a corner lot and if they are charged double. Mr.
Nelson explained the upgrade to the alleyway to a 20-foot wide street with
curbing for emergency vehicles and snow plowing with a turnaround then
explained corner lots are assessed based on the shorter of the two fronting streets.
Being no further comments Mayor Rice closed the public hearing at 7:38 p.m.
NOTE: By motion from Councilmember Wesp, which was seconded by
Councilmember Freeburg, and by a unanimous vote of the Council, agenda item 9.2
was moved up on the agenda and acted upon at this point.
Councilmember Skogquist said while he supports sidewalks where possible he
encouraged staff to work to retain boulevard trees where possible. Mr. Nelson
explained the plan presented was preliminary and would be reviewed once
construction plans were created for where trees could be retained or protected
where possible.
Motion by Councilmember Freeburg, seconded by Councilmember Skogquist, to
postpone consideration of resolution approving the 2020 Combined Street
Improvement Project; (Bob Ehlen Drive Area SRP Project) until after the
assessment hearing has been held.
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Barnett, Freeburg, Skogquist,
and Wesp voted in favor. Motion carried.
5.3 2020 Combined Street Improvement Project; Public Assessment Hearing (Bob
Ehlen Drive Area SRP Project.
RES/2020 Combined Street Improvement Project; Adopt Assessment Roll (Bob
Ehlen Area SRP Project.
RESOLUTION
Mr. Nelson shared a background report stating the purpose of the assessment
hearing is to hear any objections to a property owner’s proposed assessment and
to consider adoption of the assessment roll for the Bob Ehlen SRP Area portion of
the 2020 Combined Street Improvement Project. The assessment roll and
property frontage maps for the proposed project were shared and included a list of
all property owners with their individual proposed assessment amounts. He
explained the proposed assessment rates for 2020 and stated four or more-unit
residential buildings along with commercial/industrial properties have an
assessment rate of double this amount. In addition to the street assessment, there
is also an assessment proposed to each property for the new water and sanitary
sewer services that are being installed. The total assessment for a typical 80-foot
wide lot would be $7,570. The assessments will be payable over a 10-year period
with an interest rate of 5.0%. The annual payment for the typical assessment
would be approximately $986. A property owner can pay all or part of their
assessment with no interest charges until November 15, 2020. After this, any
balance remaining will automatically be certified to Anoka County for collection
on the property taxes. The City also provides for the deferment of special
assessments for qualified applicants. The total estimated cost of the 2020
Combined Street Improvement Project is $8,284,000 of which $1,632,000 is
associated to the Bob Ehlen SRP Area portion of the 2020 Combined Street
Improvement Project. The total assessments to benefiting properties are proposed
to be $394,154.00. It is staff’s opinion that all of the properties shown on the
proposed assessment roll will receive benefit from the project that exceeds the
shown assessment amounts.
Mayor Rice opened the public hearing at 7:45 p.m.
Mr. Putnam asked if sewer from the house to road would be redone at this time
too. Councilmember Freeburg suggested property owners could have their sewer
lines scoped for a minimal charge but suggested if the pipes were not cast iron to
clean then leave in place as replacement was very expensive.
Mr. Nelson shared how sanitary sewer and water line services work.
Mayor Rice explained how this work could not be combined with the City project
financially but suggested working with the project manager and coordinate
replacement if needed during this work since the area would be dug up already.
City Manager Greg Lee project inspector will be available each day during the
project to work with.
Mike Erickson, Coon Rapids, asked about the Solid Rock Church assessment
amount and why it was more than the residential rate. Mr. Nelson explained
commercial property was double the residential front footage and then based
along front footage along Bob Ehlen and was more because of greater impacts to
streets than a single-family home and higher water and sewer service costs.
Mayor Rice noted the proposed assessment roll was only 25% or 50% depending
on the property type of the total project and that residents pay the remaining
portion with property taxes.
Being no further comments Mayor Rice closed the public hearing at 7:53 p.m.
NOTE: By motion from Councilmember Freeburg, which was seconded by
Councilmember Barnett, and by a unanimous vote of the Council, agenda item 9.3
was moved up on the agenda and acted upon at this point.
Motion by Councilmember Freeburg, seconded by Councilmember Wesp, to
adopt a resolution approving 2020 Combined Street Improvement Project; Adopt
Assessment Roll (Bob Ehlen Area SRP Project).
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Barnett, Freeburg, Skogquist,
and Wesp voted in favor. Motion carried.
Councilmember Skogquist spoke about 2314 7th Avenue and suggested a stub be
included in this project for water and sewer. Mr. Nelson said this property’s
water service comes off 7th Avenue.
Motion by Councilmember Skogquist, seconded by Councilmember Barnett, to
bring back to the table consideration of Item 9.2 approving the 2020 Combined
Street Improvement Project; (Bob Ehlen Drive Area SRP Project.
Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried.
Motion by Councilmember Freeburg, seconded by Councilmember Skogquist, to
adopt a resolution approving the 2020 Combined Street Improvement Project;
(Bob Ehlen Drive Area SRP Project).
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Barnett, Freeburg, Skogquist,
and Wesp voted in favor. Motion carried.
5.4 2020 City Budget and Levy.
Finance Director Brenda Springer shared a background report stating the 2020
budget process began in June based on Council directives and the 2020 goal
session and has been reviewed at several meetings since. The proposed 2020
budget for all funds excluding the HRA component unit is $76,890,855. The
2020 proposed levy is set at $7,303,005. The proposed levy is an increase of
$274,441 or 3.90% above the 2019 levy. Residential property taxpayers will see a
small increase in City property taxes. The levy increase, along with changes in
fiscal disparity contributions and distributions, changes in tax increment and
market value all affect the tax rate and the amount of property tax levy distributed
to individual properties. She shared a presentation that included descriptions of
these changes and the proposed budgets, stating with the increase in the levy, the
City Council is able to cover all general fund operating, debt service payments
and some capital expenditures. Ms. Springer explained the total proposed levy
included an approximate $50 increase in City property taxes and was based on an
increase in parking fines of $1, and increases in sewer rate of $0.25 per 100 cubic
feet, storm water rate of $0.35 per month, and recycling rate of $0.50 per month.
She said the entire proposed 2020 budget can be accessed online or obtained at
City Hall.
Councilmember Freeburg commented on the $600,000 transfers from the electric
fund and $260,000 from the general fund which helps offset all taxes paid by
property owners.
Councilmember Skogquist said while the debate about enterprise funds is fair,
they do subsidize and help buy down services and thanked staff for being prudent
with these funds. He spoke about notices sent outlining the preliminary levy
which has been decreased already and the likely need for more police officers in
the future and suggested the possibility of keeping the rate a little higher in
anticipation of these new positions.
Ms. Springer explained how the proposed levy can be lower than 3.9% but not
higher then reviewed items that helped reduce the proposed levy such as the
wheelchair lifts, HVAC, Emerald ash borer program, zero percent increase in
health insurance, presidential nomination primary costs covered by the State,
elimination of the 2AM liquor license which decreased police overtime, and the
reduced shade tree budget.
Councilmember Wesp said it was important to note that staff takes into
consideration how prudent the Council is and will postpone item replacement at
times to help keep the levy as low as possible. He said while he agreed the City
will need more officers in the future, he did not think we needed to prepare for it
now because of the overtime reduction due to the 2AM license removal. He
applauded staff on finding budget decreases where possible and said he was
comfortable with the 3.9% then asked staff to review the rental licensing program
soon for possible needs there in the future.
Mayor Rice agreed how the City works on a needs versus wants basis which helps
keep property tax increases as low as possible.
Mayor Rice opened the public hearing at 8:16 p.m.
Being no comments Mayor Rice closed the public hearing at 8:16 p.m.
Mayor Rice said adoption of the proposed budget and levy will be acted upon at
the next regular meeting.
6. CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Councilmember Freeburg, seconded by Councilmember Barnett, to approve
Consent Agenda 6.1 through 6.4.
6.1 Approve Verified Bills.
6.2 Revising and Setting Council Calendars.
6.3 2018 Street Renewal Project; Final Payment and Project Close-Out.
6.4 2018 Street Surface Improvement Project; Final Payment and Project Close-Out.
Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried.
7. REPORTS OF OFFICERS, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
7.1. Park Board Items:
7.1.A. 2019 Aquatic Center Annual Report.
Recreation Manager Nichole Jenks shared a background report stating the Aquatic
Center Annual Report was presented to and accepted by the Parks & Recreation
Advisory Board on November 19, 2019. She shared highlights of the report that
included the pool was open for 87 days with 54 members staff creating a
welcoming and safe environment for the nearly 45,000 customers. Overall
revenue for the 2019 season was $326,595 and expenses were $366,910. She
explained expenses for staff was 20% over budget, but these returners brought
back invaluable knowledge, customer service, and experience. Daily admission
made up 44% of this season’s revenue with $143,894. This is the most revenue
the pool has seen for daily admission since 2002. Ms. Jenks said the Aquatic
Center sold 1,924 season passes this season, an increase of 35 pass holders from
the 2018 season. As seen in previous seasons, Anoka residents made up 35% of
season pass holders, with the highest attendance of July since 2011. She spoke
about how weather affected attendance then shared about the programs offered
including Little Splashers, private lessons, open swim, story time with the Rum
River Library, summer concert, and partnerships with Fifth Avenue Dental for a
free popcorn day and donated electric toothbrushes appreciation drawings and
free swim evening that attracted an astounding 575 patrons. She spoke about the
third season for the City-operated concession stand and revenue that continued to
exceed expenses then spoke about goals for the 2020 season that included
retaining and improving the percentage of returning staff, not to exceed budgeted
expenses and continue to surpass budgeted revenues, increase season pass sales,
Little Splashers attendance, daily admission attendance, and swim lesson
registrations, continue collaborating with outside organizations to offer a variety
events, specials, and outreach to the community, and provide a higher level of
service and a larger variety of products at competitive pricing at the concession
stand then shared the proposed season dates for 2020.
Councilmember Wesp commented how the aquatic center/Charles Horn Pool was
a gift from Federal Cartridge in the mid-1950s and was intrigued on how staff
continued to create more activities such as concessions and storybook time as a
great way to enhance something given to the community. He said while the
center does not make money for Anoka it does not need to because it is such an
asset, noting 64% of attendees are not residents of Anoka which shows what an
asset this is.
Motion by Councilmember Wesp, seconded by Councilmember Freeburg, to
accept the 2019 aquatic center annual report as presented.
Councilmember Barnett thanked staff for their great work in identifying ways to
make the center better such as creating partnerships and asked staff to continue to
do that even more as a goal for 2020. She agreed we do not need to turn a profit
but thanked staff for their work in continuing to try then suggested the vehicle
rental should not be included as an expense and burden of the aquatic center and
encouraged staff to continue to think out of box and request what may be needed
to help improve the center such as lockers, improved concessions, senior water
aerobics, and resident season passes at a discounted rate.
Councilmember Freeburg appreciated staff’s focus on safety at the center.
Councilmember Skogquist asked about the policy on swim tests for patrons and if
increased staffing costs was based on more staff or manager time. Ms. Jenks
explained the swim test process and time allocation to the budget.
Councilmember Barnett asked about set-up and tear down, and maintenance costs.
Public Works Director Mark Anderson said the costs are significant and done by
Public Works and would share those with Council.
Ms. Jenks noted chemicals were included under general supplies and explained
pool staff does the cleaning and maintenance work of the center.
Ms. Springer said coding is reflected in budget allocation for these costs.
Councilmember Barnett asked if any capital improvements were being proposed
for 2020. Ms. Jenks said only dividers were being requested in the staff area.
Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried.
Councilmember Wesp asked about the recent archery hunt results. Ms. Jenks said
the fourth hunt would be starting next week but three from the Anoka Nature
Preserve were included but from Kings Island.
7.2. Planning Items:
None.
8. PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATION
None.
9. ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS
9.1 RES/2020 Combined Street Improvement Project; Order Project and Authorize
the Preparation of Plans and Specifications (Street Surface Improvement Project).
ACTED UPON AFTER THE PUBLIC HEARING
9.2 RES/2020 Combined Street Improvement Project; Order Project and Authorize
the Preparation of Plans and Specifications (Bob Ehlen Drive Area SRP Project).
ACTED UPON AFTER THE PUBLIC HEARING
9.3 RES/2020 Combined Street Improvement Project; Adopt Assessment Roll (Bob
Ehlen Area SRP Project.
ACTED UPON AFTER THE PUBLIC HEARING
9.4 ORD/2020 Master Fee Schedule.
(1st Reading)
Mr. Lee shared a background report stating annually staff reviews the fee
schedule and determines whether or not a recommendation should be made to the
Council to adjust the fees that the City charges for services and licenses. Fees are
to be based on the actual costs to provide the service, issuance/enforcement of a
license or code regulation, background checks, materials, and time then reviewed
the proposed changes to the schedule.
Motion by Councilmember Freeburg, seconded by Councilmember Wesp, to hold
first reading of an ordinance establishing a fee schedule for the City of Anoka,
effective January 1, 2020.
Councilmember Skogquist suggested increasing fees for weddings in the park and
to increase the base rate for rental licensing to $170 for example to not incentivize
for less units.
Mr. Lee said the rental licensing fee had already been increased but could do this
increase as suggested.
Councilmember Barnett asked if we were charging the maximum allowed for
small cell wireless permits. City Attorney Scott Baumgartner said the fee
depends on where the facility is located but is being charged the highest amount
possible.
Councilmember Freeburg said he would accept the friendly amendment to
increase the base rate for rental licensing as proposed. Councilmember Wesp
agreed.
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Barnett, Freeburg, Skogquist,
and Wesp voted in favor. Motion carried.
9.5 RES/Adoption of the Anoka County 2019 Multi-Jurisdictional All-Hazards
Mitigation Plan.
RESOLUTION
Chief Peterson shared a background report stating this resolution would authorize
the City of Anoka’s continued participation with Anoka County Emergency
Management as they update and keep current the Countywide All-Hazards
Mitigation Plan. The current countywide, multi-jurisdictional All-Hazards
Mitigation Plan is up for review by FEMA. Participation is necessary for all
jurisdictions to be eligible to receive FEMA hazard mitigation assistance grants.
Councilmember Barnett confirmed there was no financial impact to this action but
asked about training involved. Chief Peterson said as Emergency Manager he is
required to attend all hazards and threat training as part of this plan.
Motion by Councilmember Freeburg, seconded by Councilmember Barnett, to
adopt a resolution approving the Anoka County 2019 Multi-Jurisdictional All-
Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Barnett, Freeburg, Skogquist,
and Wesp voted in favor. Motion carried.
9.6 RES/Providing for the Sale of $8,815,000 General Obligation Bonds, Series
2020A.
RESOLUTION
Ms. Springer shared a background report stating on December 17, 2018, City
Council adopted a resolution consolidating the 2019 Street Renewal Project with
the 2019 Street Surface Improvement Project to make the project more
economically complete and on April 1, 2019, City Council adopted a resolution
approving bids and awarded construction contracts to Kuechle Underground Inc.,
for the 2019 Combined Street Improvement Project, Street Renewal Project (SRP)
Area and to Douglas-Kerr Underground LLC, for the 2019 Combined Street
Improvement Project, Street Surface Improvement Project (SSIP) Area. City
Council adopted a resolution authorizing the 2019 Street Maintenance Project. A
portion of these projects will be financed by the Municipal Public Works 444
Waterworks; Storm; Sanitary Sewer Systems bond. On June 17, 2019, City
Council passed a resolution allowing the City to issue debt in early 2020 to
reimburse it-self for certain expenditures for the 2019 public improvement
projects and said Council was asked to adopt the proposed resolution providing
for the sale of these bonds for this project.
Councilmember Skogquist asked why the process included adoption of a
resolution and ordinance and why the two different fees were being proposed.
Shelley Eldridge, Ehlers and Associates, said the ordinance is required by City
Charter.
Ms. Springer explained the not to exceed amount allows for any additional items
not anticipated.
Councilmember Wesp asked about bond yields and how this process was different
from a recent bond sale. Ms. Springer explained the City bonded for the HRA to
purchase the 7th and Main Street property and said this action is for public
improvements which is a different process.
Ms. Eldridge said not to exceed amount should not increase when the bonds go to
market unless the project changes significantly. She explained premium bids
were anticipated and likened the process similar to rebates on a car purchase,
stating the amount will likely be less than the not to exceed amount proposed.
Motion by Councilmember Skogquist, seconded by Councilmember Freeburg, to
adopt a resolution providing for the Sale of $8,815,000 General Obligation Bonds,
Series 2020A.
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Barnett, Freeburg, Skogquist,
and Wesp voted in favor. Motion carried.
9.7 ORD/Authorizing the Sale of General Obligation Improvement Bonds, Series
2020A in an Amount Not to Exceed $8,850,000.
(1st Reading)
Ms. Springer shared a background report stating adopting the ordinance would
allow the City Council to issue General Obligation Improvement Bonds in an
amount not to exceed $8,850,000 and pay for both the 2019 and 2020 street
improvement projects.
Motion by Councilmember Wesp, seconded by Councilmember Barnett, to hold
first reading of an ordinance authorizing the sale of General Obligation
Improvement Bonds, Series 2020A in an amount no to exceed $8,850,000.
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Barnett, Freeburg, Skogquist,
and Wesp voted in favor. Motion carried.
10. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
11. NEW BUSINESS
11.1 Annual Appointments to Boards/Commissions.
Mr. Lee shared a background report stating per City policy staff advertised for
applications for the annual board/commission appointments during the month of
October. This was published in the Anoka Union, posted on the City website,
Facebook, Twitter and also posted on the City reader board. He shared a summary
of the board/commission positions scheduled to expire December 31 as well as
status of applications received and noted the following individuals have chosen
not to reapply: Economic Development Commissioner Julia Schmidt; Parking
Advisory Board Member Rex Louis, and Utility Advisory Board Chair Gary
Semmel.
Councilmember Skogquist thanked Chair Semmel particularly for his work over
the years as Chair and for his energy in the Board.
Councilmember Barnett suggested staff review the reappointment process to see if
there was a way to make it more effective and informative to Council while not
burdening the applicants such as providing their initial applications that shows
applicants’ passions and background when they started.
Motion by Councilmember Freeburg, seconded by Councilmember Wesp, to
approve the boards and commissions appointments as presented.
Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried.
12. UPDATES AND REPORTS
12.1 Update/Reminder; Anoka Highway 10 Corridor Open House, December 10, 4:30-
6:30 PM at Green Haven Golf Course and Event Center.
Mayor Rice reminded the public about the Anoka Highway 10 Corridor Open
House on December 10 at Green Haven Golf Course and Event Center.
12.2 Tentative Agenda(s).
The Council reviewed the tentative agendas of the upcoming Council meetings.
Councilmember Wesp noted the closed session for the annual performance
evaluation of the City Manager has been postponed to December 16.
12.3 Staff and Council Input.
Ms. Jenks encouraged the community to attend the Anoka tree lighting event on
Saturday, December 7 at City Hall.
13. ADJOURNMENT
Councilmember Freeburg made a motion to adjourn the Regular Council meeting.
Councilmember Wesp seconded the motion.
Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried.
Time of adjournment: 8:58 p.m.
Submitted by: Cathy Sorensen, TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
Approval Attestation:
Amy T. Oehlers, City Clerk
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