City Council Meetings
Regular MeetingWatertown, MN · January 9, 2018
Minutes
MINUTES OF THE
WATERTOWN CITY COUNCIL
Regular Meeting Tuesday, January 9, 2018
1. Call to Order and Roll Call
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the regular meeting of the Watertown City Council was called to order
at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, January 09, 2018 in the Council Chambers of City Hall by Mayor Steve Washburn.
Council Members present: Washburn, Michael Walters, Deborah Everson, Lindsay Guetzkow and Adam
Pawelk. City Staff present: City Administrator Shane Fineran, City Engineer Aaron Schmidt, Utilities
Superintendent Doug Kammerer, Public Works Superintendent Mike Dressel, and City Clerk-Treasurer Lynn
Tschudi. Guests present: Dr. Scott Jensen, Dave Martini with Bolton & Menk. Those who signed in: see
attached list.
2. Adopt Agenda
PAWELK MOVED, EVERSON SECONDED A MOTION TO ADOPT THE AGENDA AS PRESENTED.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
3. Consent Agenda Discussion & Approval
All items listed under the consent agenda are considered to be routine by the City Council and will be enacted
by one motion on an affirmative vote by roll call of a majority of the members present. There will be no
separate discussion of these items unless a Council member or citizen so requests, in which event, the item(s)
will be removed and discussed prior to the adoption of the consent agenda.
Dave Martini with Bolton & Menk thanked the City for appointing Bolton & Menk as the City’s Engineering
firm again for 2018.
GUETZKOW MOVED, WALTERS SECONDED A MOTION TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA
AS PRESENTED. MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
A. Adopt a motion to approve City Council Special Meeting Minutes from December 5, 2017
B. Adopt a motion to approve City Council Meeting Minutes from December 12, 2017
C. Adopt a motion to approve City Council Work Session Minutes from December 12, 2017
D. Consider Resolution #2018-01, Approving Organizational Appointments for 2018
E. Consider Resolution #2018-02, Accepting the Resignation of Firefighters and Chief Wade Stock and
Jeff VanWatermulen
F. Consider Resolution #2018-03, Appointing Fire Department Officers
G. Consider Resolution #2018-04, Approving Acquisition of Generator and Approving MOU with
CarverLink
th
H. Adopt a Motion Approving Pay Application No. 2 for 30 Street Trails Project
I. Consider Resolution #2018-10, Approving Fund Transfer from Sewer Fund to Utility Capital Fund
J. Consider Resolution #2018-11, Accepting Resignation of Jim Bart from the Commission on Aging
K. Consider Resolution #2018-13, Appointing Members to the Commission on Aging
4. Open Forum
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5. New / Old Business
A. Senator Scott Jensen
Scott Jensen approached the podium. He noted that he shares some of the same concerns as the
Council does in their legislative priorities on transportation. He also touched on the increase in health
care costs. He talked about the top 10 items that he and others will be working on in the legislature.
Everson asked about MNLARS. Jensen replied that at times private sector is ahead of the game in
some things and this is one of them. Jensen thanked each of the Council members for their service.
Washburn asked that the more he can advocate for transportation to and from our community, the
more the growth of Watertown depends on it.
B. Recognition of Retiring Firefighter Jeff VanWatermulen and Fire Chief Wade Stock
Ryan Schroeder approached the podium and congratulated Jeff VanWatermulen and Wade Stock for
their years of service. Jeff served for 24 years and wade served for a total of 30 years with many of
those years as Fire Chief. He also thanked their wives. Jeff approached the podium. He thanked the
City of Watertown, his wife and the Wsterotwn Fire Dept. Wade approached and thanked Council
and staff. He noted that the support of Council is key to what happens to the Fire Department.
He wished the department the safest things in the world. Pictures were taken with both retired
firemen.
C. Solicitation of Quotes for a Dump Truck
Fineran introduced the topic for the planned capital investment for a new dump truck. Staff is asking
for authorization to solicit quotes to replace the existing 1999 Sterling plow truck with a trade in
value of approximately $25,000.
Mike Dressel explained that to improve the current truck to operating standard, it would cost around
$50,000. That does not include an underbody blade. Per the point system used for replacement
factors, this truck is rated at 32 points. Anything over 21 points is considered needs immediate
consideration. Dressel explained that the 1999 truck applies salt at a constant amount, allowing them
to only apply to intersections and corners. He shared pictures of what it looks like after the 1999
truck plows a street versus when the 2007 truck plows a street. He presented the remaining slide
show.
Washburn asked about the full inventory of plowing fleet. Dressel went through the vehicle line up
and their routes. Pawelk asked about the estimated cost of $225,000 and if it is for a new or used
vehicle. Dressel replied that he has been looking at new/used within a year and they are around the
$200,000. He doesn't see many used vehicles in the less than 10 year used and if he does, they are
customized to each City.
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Guetzkow asked what year of a truck would accommodate the desired brine tanks. Dressel replied
around 2007. Walters is in favor of a new dump truck. Everson asked how it would hinder the City if
they did not approve this purchase. Dressel answered that the level of service would be what it is now.
He also does not know when the truck is going to break down and how much more we want to put
into it. She asked if the 1999 is gone completely, would it take longer. Dressel answered that it would
take a minimum of two additional hours per snow fall. Washburn asked what kind of truck Dressel is
envisioning for purchasing. Dressel explained in detail the type of dump truck he would like to see
the City purchase to replace the 1999 Sterling. Washburn asked what other uses the truck would have.
Dressel replied that it could be used for plowing, spraying, hauling, hauling equipment. Everson
asked about grant money available. Fineran replied that this does not qualify. She also asked about
the timeline. Dressel said the buildout is 10 months. Pawelk asked about repairing the 1999 and if we
would need to repair in the interim. Dressel said it is functioning, but if we keep it, those said repairs
are necessary. Guetzkow asked if the vendors accept trade ins. Dressel said they do and $25,000 is a
reasonable estimate.
GUETZKOW MOVED, WALTERS SECONDED, A MOTION TO APPROVE RESOLUTION
2018-05, AUTHORIZING THE SOLICITATION OF QUOTES FOR HEAVY DUMP TRUCK.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
D. Solicitation of Quotes for a Street Sweeper
Fineran introduced the capital investment item to replace the2000 Elgin street sweeper with an
estimated cost of $250,000. The current vehicle has needed many repairs and requires high staff
resources to support operations. The newer model will allow faster sweeping with less man power.
This vehicle scored a 36 which needs immediate attention.
Doug Kammerer approached the podium. He explained the current vehicle is a 3 wheeled broomed
vehicle with a small capacity for leaves. The sweeper requires an area to be covered 2-3 times with 2
men, one sweeping and one dumping. A new model desired would have pick-up and storage
capacities to last 10-15 blocks versus 2 blocks and could operate at truck speeds rather than 15mph.
This sweeper could also be used in special situations by the utility crew and is the third of the size of
the current vehicle. Washburn asked how long the new unit is expected to last. Kammerer replied at
least 10 years. He also noted that maintenance on the new sweeper will decrease by hours per week.
Pawelk added that street sweeping has a positive effect to eliminate phosphorus in the storm sewer.
Pawelkasked staff to look into this piece of equipment possibly qualifying for a grant to reduce
phosphorus levels. Guetzkow asked about the new/used market. Kammerer replied that vehicles are
10-15 years old and they do not include the newer technology. Everson asked about a timeline.
Kammerer replied 6-8 months to receive the new equipment.
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EVERSON MOVED, GUETZKOW SECONDED, A MOTION TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 2018-
06 AUTHORIZING THE SOLICITATION OF QUOTES FOR STREET SWEEPER. MOTION
CARRIED 5-0.
E. 2018 Mill & Overlay Project
Aaron Schmidt with Bolton & Menk introduced the capital project of the continuing Mill & Overlay.
He noted 2018 will be the 2nd year of the project. Streets included in this phase of the program are
Deerfield Road, Quail Parkway (East of Newton Ave), Quail Court, and Wood Hill Circle. Also,
Madison Street between NewtonAvenue and County Road 10 and Brown Circle, which were
originally slated for 2017. Schmidt explained that Bolton & Menk will also be addressing the casting
and valve box adjustment work one year ahead of the mill and overlay completion to allow for
settling. If authorized, plans and specs could be completed in March, with bid opening occurring in
mid-April.
Pawelk noted he would like to see a clause added to any plans and specs for a required completion
date. Fineran replied that this would be something written into the contract based on the start date.
Guetzkow asked for clarification on castings confirming that these are manholes and storm sewer
drains. Washburn asked about making a trail connection on Newton now rather than coming back to
the topic in five years. He would like staff to do some due diligence in researching this. Walters
added that this is a dangerous section of road and would like to see this addressed for a trail.
Guetzkow added she agrees and encourages staff to look into grant money to assist in payment.
WASHBURN MOVED, WALTERS SECONDED, A MOTION TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 2018-
07 AUTHORIZING PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR 2018 MILL AND OVERLAY
PROJECT INCLUDING A TERTIARY TRAIL ALONG NEWTON AVENUE. MOTION
CARRIED 5-0.
F. Utility SCADA Upgrade
Fineran recapped that at the August 8, 2017 Council meeting, staff was approved to obtain quotes for
the Utility System SCADA Upgrades. Since the project was below $100,000, the City was able to
solicit quotes rather than go out for bid. Bids were received on December 6, 2017 with three being
sent in.
Washburn asked what the current system is. Kammerer replied that the City does not have a SCADA,
it is operated from the phone lines. This will eliminate phone lines on the water side. Everson asked
if we have worked with this vendor. Kammerer replied yes.
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WALTERS MOVED, EVERSON SECONDED, A MOTION TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 2018-08
AWARDING THE UTILITY SCADA UPGRADE PROJECT TO AUTOMATIC SYSTEMS
COMPANY. MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
G. 2018 Legislative Priorities
Fineran walked Council through the current wording including edits for the 2018 Legislative
Priorities statement. Pawelk is comfortable with the edits that were made. Guetzkow, Walters,
Everson and Washburn agreed.
Fineran also explained that Carver County is looking for support for improving Highway 5 through
the Corridors of Commerce program. Guetzkow stated that anything that reduces resident's
commutes is crucial and in order to be competitive, this resolution needs to be a priority. Washburn
believes it is important to lead and help people move in a multi mobile fashion.
GUETZKOW MOVED, PAWELK SECONDED, A MOTION TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 2018-09
IN SUPPORT OF FUNDING FOR TRUNK HIGHWAY 5 THROUGH THE CORRIDORS OF
COMMERCE PROGRAM. MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
H. 2018 Storm Pond Project
Fineran introduced the storm water treatment pond maintenance plan. He explained that these ponds
need to be looked at like roads and require maintenance over time. The ponds accumulate sediment
over time and need to be cleaned. Fineran said that with the recommendation from Bolton & Menk,
the City will be looking at all the ponds through the City to evaluate and inventory which will then
establish a comprehensive maintenance plan. The City has allotted $120,000 in the Utility Capital
Fund to begin the process with approximately $90,000 for preparation of final plans and cleaning of
the most critical ponds.
Pawelk asked about a previous plan developed by the City in 2013. Fineran replied that it was a
Storm Water Management plan required by the County and State. It was more general and leaves out
the pond conditions and investigations.
Guetzkow asked if the City is planning to return the ponds to “as constructed” conditions. Fineran
responded that yes, however it will require some work with residents. As we know, some residents
get used to seeing cat tails, or trees, or other placed items in the pond. Guetzkow would like a map of
the 38 storm ponds added to the website. Walters agreed that it makes sense to complete these based
on need, but asked for clarification on this. Page 5 of 7
Schmidt answered that the 2 things ponds do is control the rate water discharges off of a
development and contaminate loading. These two factors make it impossible to base maintenance off
of age. Fineran adds that the 3rd factor is cost. The more pollution, the higher cost associated with
disposing of the pollution.
Everson asked if we are on a timeline to complete this maintenance. Fineran answered no, but being
proactive is better than being told you have to complete the maintenance. Pawelk noted that by the
time all 38 ponds are treated, a new evaluation will need to completed, however you need to start
somewhere. Washburn asked if any ponds are currently failing. Fineran answered he does not know.
Washburn does not agree with this maintenance plan because of the point that Pawelk made.
He would like to wait until it is made a requirement or a pond fails. He adds that residents will not be
excited when the clean outs begin. Guetzkow asked if the City completes the study are they allowed
to do nothing with the findings. Fineran adds that this is seen as a water main or a sewer main and it
is our duty to maintain it. Dave Martini with Bolton and Menk added that as the community is
developed, the ponds were a requirement to protect natural resources and neighbors. These ponds
have all changed since they were constructed over time as they have filled with sediment.
Martini informed that the water requirements are tightening and he believes that it's not a matter ofif
it's more ofwhen.
Washburn asked if the City will know the capacity of the ponds and timing of how long the failure is
near when the study is done. Martini replied that each pond would be measured as it is today
compared to when it was constructed to determine how close to failure it is. Guetzkow asked about
regulations now that storm water ponds are neighboring the30th Street Wetland. Martini answered
that if direct access exists now, the cost may be lower to get in there with equipment. Washburn
would like to see this topic come back as a workshop to spend more time and gather more
information from Bolton & Menk.
Walters does not want to see this item tabled for too long as he feels it is important.
EVERSON MOVED, GUETZKOW SECONDED A MOTION TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 2018-
12 AUTHORIZING PRELIMINARY ASSESSMENT AND EVALUTION OF MUNICIPAL
STORM WATER INFRASTRUCTURE. EVERSON RESCINDS HER MOTION.
EVERSON MOVED, GUETZKOW SECONDED, A MOTION TO TABLE THE 2018 STORM
POND PROJECT UNTIL FUTURE WORKSHOP. MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
6. Other Reports
Fineran reminded residents of the winter parking ordinance: no street parking from 2:30 a.m. - 6 a.m.
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Deputies will be ticketing cars parked on the street or in municipal parking lots. 30th Street Trail construction
was completed for the 2017 portion which included the setting of the gravel. The seeding and restoration will
be completed in spring 2018.
Pawelk updated that the Park Commission met in late December. Possible naming of the park would be Oak
Grove Community Park. Evergreen Park master plan and potential improvements for 2018 were discussed as
well.
Guetzkow asked Fineran for an update on the developer’s luncheon for the EDA. Fineran replied that invites
will go out by end of next week, with the lunch scheduled for February 15th. Space for 50 guests, inviting 200
total.
Washburn updated that the Commisison on Aging met on Jan 3rd. The Commission and friends served 191
people at the holiday dinner. Ltn Dave Williams attended the meeting from Carver County Sheriffs Office.
Washburn thanked Jeff & Wade from the fire department. He was also sad to report that Jim Bart resigned
from the Commission on Aging.
7. Claims
PAWELK MOVED, GUETZKOW SECONDED A MOTION TO ADOPT THE 2017 & 2018 CLAIMS AS
PRESENTED. MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
8. Adjournment
Members of the City Council and City staff may convene directly following the adjournment of the meeting at
the Luce Line Lodge in a purely social event. Members of the public are welcome to attend.
EVERSON MOVED, PAWELK SECONDED A MOTION TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 8:56 PM.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
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