CITY OF HUDSON COMMON COUNCIL

MEETING MINUTES OF WEDNESDAY, FEB. 20, 2008

Meeting called to order by Mayor Jack Breault in the Council Chambers of City Hall at 7:00 p.m. Mayor Breault led those present in the pledge of allegiance.

PRESENT: Mayor Breault and Alderpersons Randy Morrissette, Dennis O’Connell, Paul Radermacher, Lee Wyland, Scot O’Malley and Alan Burchill.

OTHERS PRESENT: Cathy Munkittrick, Devin Willi, Betty Caruso, Don Maysack, Jim Frye, Lori Bernard, Randy Fredrickson, Glen Hartman, Debbie Hartman, Dean Hanson, Bill Wanner, Frank Rhoades, Marty Jensen, Angela Popenhagen, Eric Atkinson, Patt Colton, Gordon Conard, Mike Kruger, Tom Zeuli, Rich Brasch, Sue Gherty, Dennis Postler, LaVonne McCombie, Paul Larson, Patti McCann, Jim Schreiber, Dean Knudson, and others.

COMMENTS AND SUGGESTIONS FROM CITIZENS PRESENT: Patti McCann, representing the St. Croix Valley Habitat for Humanity, presented the results from a joint project with UW-River Falls to conclude which cities or towns were most desirable for the construction of Habitat homes. She stated that the overall ranking placed Hudson in the number one position and asked the City to locate and acquire land where a Habitat home could be built. A PowerPoint presentation was shown. Mayor Breault commented that the City did encourage developers to provide lots, and previous Habitat homes were built on them.

CONSENT AGENDA: Morrissette requested that Applications for Operator’s Licenses be removed from consent. MOTION by O’Malley, second by Wyland, to approve the following Consent Agenda items:

MINUTES: Approve the regular Meeting minutes and Closed Session minutes of 2/04/08.

Claims: Approve the following claims for payment:

FUND	DESCRIPTION	PAYABLES	PAYROLL	TOTALS
100	General	136,102.25	121,363.22	257,465.47
231	SCBP-RVL Loan	24,753.00	0.00	24,753.00
410	Tax Increment Financing	1,733.88	0.00	1,733.88
450	Capital Projects	15,200.00	0.00	15,200.00
610	Sewer	5,329.22	10,656.71	15,985.93
620	Parking	4,816.07	943.81	5,759.88
630	Ambulance	7,797.97	8,365.95	16,163.92
	TOTALS	$195,732.39	$141,329.69	$337,062.08

Consider additions to Municipal Court bond schedule: Approve the

revised bond schedule for nuisance violations as follows:

Barking dog/disturbance - $83.80 for 2nd offense

and $109 for 3^rd and subsequent offenses

Public Nuisance offending morals/decency - $109.00

Public Nuisance affecting peace & safety - $109.00

Owners & occupants of nuisance premises - $172.00 for 1st offense;

$235.00 for 2^nd offense, and $424.00 for 3^rd offense.

Install cross traffic signage at 11^th and Wisconsin Street Intersection: Approve the installation of “Cross traffic does not stop” sign on the 11^th Street stop sign at the Wisconsin St. intersection, to be funded from the (Public Works) sign budget.

Request for parking on north side of Elm Street between 1^st and 2^nd

Streets: Approve parking on the north side of Elm Street from the telephone company garage area to First Street.

Lease agreement with St. Croix Rowing Club: Approve renewal of the

Lease Agreement with St. Croix Rowing Club for the building at 6 St. Croix Street, for three years through April 30, 2011.

Grandview Park Concessions Agreement with Hudson Softball Association: Approve the 2008 Grandview Park Concessions Agreement with the Hudson Softball Association for the period 5/1/08 to 10/31/08.

Boat Launch Fees for 2008: Approve the 2008 Boat Launch Fee schedule of $3.00 for City of Hudson residents, $5.00 for Wisconsin residents, and $10.00 for non-residents.

REPORTS OF CITY OFFICIALS, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS: Place on file the quarterly reports of the City Clerk, Police Department, and Water Utility Director.

Roll call vote, all ayes (6) MOTION CARRIED.

Applications for Operator’s Licenses: Morrissette recused himself. MOTION by Radermacher, second by O’Malley, to approve the issuance of regular Operator’s Licenses for the period 2/21/08 through 6/30/09 to:

Amy L. Turnquist 812 Kinnickinnic Street Hudson, WI

Deanna M. Gallagan 14937 60^th Street N. #106 Stillwater, MN

And to deny the application for an Operator’s License filed by filed by Matt A. Bunnell, 249 Foster Street, River Falls, WI, as recommended by the Interim Chief of Police. Ayes (5), MOTION CARRIED.

Consider crossing flag system for 2^nd and Elm Street intersection: radermacher announced that the Public Safety Committee recommended approval of the crossing flag system for the 2^nd and Elm Street intersection. MOTION by Radermacher, second by Burchill, to implement the crossing flag system at Second and Elm Streets, with funds from the Contingency Fund. O’Malley suggested that the Nor-Lake company be responsible for the costs, due to a number of their employees parking on residential streets instead of on Nor-Lake property. Nor-Lake HR Manager Paul Sederstrom was present and indicated that Nor-Lake could pay the approximate cost of $600. MOTION AMENDED by Radermacher, second by Burchill, that Nor-Lake would pay for the cost of the crossing flag system. All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

Consider removal of Vine Street stop signs at 3^rd Street and 4^th Street: Radermacher stated that the Public Safety Committee recommended removal of the stop signs on Vine Street at the Third and Fourth Street intersections, and noted that the pedestrian crossing flag system could be implemented. He also noted that the traffic study indicated the stop signs were not warranted. MOTION by Radermacher, second by Morrissette, to remove the stop signs on Vine Street at the Third and Fourth Street intersections, and to implement the crossing flag system.

Pastor Randy Fredrickson addressed the Council regarding a petition signed by 72 citizens to retain the stop signs as a matter of public safety. The petition was placed on file in the Clerk’s office. Pastor Fredrickson voiced concern for pedestrian safety at the Third Street, noting the church also has a facility on the south side of Vine Street where regular programs are held. He stated that 50 or more persons could cross the intersection on a regular basis.

Bonestroo Engineer Dennis Postler clarified some points in the traffic study report. He stated that when the report indicates some warrants are not met, it does not mean that the signs should be taken down.

Numerous neighborhood residents spoke about their concerns and requests to keep both stop signs in place. Brief discussion was held concerning an earlier removal of the Vine Street stop signs at Fourth Street. O’Connell stated that the mistake was soon realized and the signs were quickly put back in place. O’Malley shared comments he received from citizens who were not able to attend the meeting; they were also in favor of keeping the stop signs. Wyland stated he was interested in safety and in favor of keeping the signs; he noted he had not heard any reasons for removing the signs.

Morrissette RESCINDED his second to the MOTION, and stated his opinion to keep the signs. The MOTION then received a second by Burchill. Radermacher stated the stop signs were in place before the flag crossing system was available, and the flags work well at busier intersections. He noted that the Fire Chief recommended removal of the stop sign at Third Street because it would be easier for the fire vehicles to navigate. Mayor Breault pointed out that removal of the signs would encourage speeding (on Vine Street), as there would not be any stops between 2^nd and Wisconsin Streets. Burchill requested that the Public Safety Committee create a stop sign policy. Vote taken: Ayes: Radermacher and Burchill (2); Noes: (4). MOTION FAILED.

Consider fee schedule for dumpsters located on City property: radermacher stated that the Public Safety Committee recommended approval of a one-year lease agreement with San Pedro restaurant for placement of their dumpsters on the Public Safety Building parking lot (Williams Lot) and to be billed $15 a month. MOTION by Radermacher to establish the fee of $15 per month for the San Pedro café dumpster placed on City property, with a one-year lease agreement. O’Malley noted he would provide a second, if the amount was amended to $25.00 per month. Radermacher agreed to the amount.

Discussion was held regarding the need to consider other requests for dumpsters on City property case by case, since different properties have different values. City Attorney Munkittrick pointed out the need to be consistent, and if there is a better use for City property, it should not be leased for dumpster space. It was questioned whether there were other dumpsters on City property. It was also noted that the dumpster fees could be billed quarterly or semi-annually instead of monthly. Ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

Consider request of Burt Nordstrand & Associates for dumpster lease agreement: morrissette and Radermacher recused themselves. Radermacher stated that the Public Safety Committee recommended approval for Burt Nordstrand & Associates to place their dumpsters on City property in the alley behind City Hall, and to enter into a lease agreement with them at $15 a month.

Wyland explained that the City had an agreement with BNA that allowed the City to place 6 parking meters on their property, and they notified the City that the lease would be terminated Feb 4^th, so the parking meters were recently removed. It was noted that the BNA dumpsters are now located on space that could potentially be metered parking spaces, and BNA could move them to their own property. MOTION by Burchill to allow the BNA dumpsters to remain at their current location on City property, with a $25 monthly charge. MOTION FAILED for lack of a second.

Consider creation of ordinance re: authority of adult crossing guards: Interim Police Chief Eric Atkinson presented the request from the Safety Committee for Trinity, St. Patrick’s, and Willow River Elementary schools for an ordinance that would give the ability for adult crossing guards to stop traffic. He noted a Wisconsin Statute gives adults that authority, and stated he would like to have the City Attorney review the language for Council to consider as an ordinance. Discussion was held regarding the current school crossing guard system. Mayor Breault questioned whether there was a need, as it seems that people do stop for the school safety patrol. MOTION by O’Malley, second by Wyland, to table the topic (of creating an ordinance re: authority of adult crossing guards). Ayes (4); Noes: Radermacher and Morrissette. MOTION CARRIED.

Trinity Academy’s request for parking restrictions on St. Croix Street: radermacher explained that the current signage indicated no parking on school days Monday through Friday from 7:30 to 4:30, and Trinity was requesting the signage times be changed to 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and 12:45 to 4:30 p.m. He stated this would allow parents the ability to pick up their children without parking in the no parking zone, and the Public Safety Committee recommended approval.

MOTION by Radermacher, second by Wyland, to approve no parking on St. Croix Street in front of the Trinity Academy, on school days Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and 12:45 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. O’Malley requested that the vehicles be turned off while waiting. Ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

DNR grant to Fire Dept. to purchase wildland firefighting equipment: mayor Breault stated that the Finance Committee recommended approval of the matching grant for the Fire Department. Fire Chief Jim Frye explained that the Department was the recipient of a DNR grant to purchase wildland firefighting equipment. He noted that the equipment must first be purchased and the invoices then submitted to the DNR after they have been paid. He stated the grant would allow for the purchase of special boots, helmets, gloves, and respirators for fighting wildland fires. He explained that the Fire Department would fund the matching portion of the balance with donations, and any overages would be paid by Hudson Fire Co. #1.

MOTION by O’Malley, second by O’Connell, to authorize all invoices for the wildland firefighting equipment grant to be processed through the City Finance Department, as proposed by the Fire Department. All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

Consider creation/hiring of an on-staff City Engineer position: mayor Breault reported that the Finance Committee recommended postponement of the topic until TIF District #4 is closed. MOTION by O’Malley, second by O’Connell to postpone the creation and hiring of an on-staff City Engineer position. All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

Consider funding of a Captain/Assistant Chief of Police position:

mayor Breault explained that the Police Chief has the ability to appoint staff, and the Council has the responsibility for finding the funding. He recommended waiting until the new Police Chief was on board to decide whether the item should come before Council for consideration. He also noted that the selection of the new Chief should be completed by the end of the month.

Radermacher stated his concern for having another police squad on the street by this summer. MOTION by O’Malley, second by Wyland, to ratify the decision made months ago (re: Captain/Assistant Chief of Police Position), and to wait until the new Police Chief is appointed before any action is taken. Ayes (5); Radermacher voted No. MOTION CARRIED.

Change of agent for Green Mill Restaurant, 2410 Gateway Court: motion by O’Connell, second by O’Malley, to approve the change of agent for Green Mill Restaurant, 2410 Gateway Court, as submitted. All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

Lake Mallalieu Stormwater Assessment reporT: Rich Brasch provided the final report for the Lake Mallalieu Stormwater Assessment Project. He stated he would review the background information, share the high points, and make recommendations. He reminded that a $10,000 grant was received from the DNR to study the topic and identify and correct as many problems as possible. The City also paid a portion of the cost of the report. Mr. Brasch also thanked Tom Zeuli and Jim Schreiber for their assistance during the process.

Information was shared regarding the best management practices for stormwater treatment and pollutant load reduction. Mr. Brasch explained structural practices and non-structural practices. Examples of non-structural practices include street sweeping and enactment and enforcement of ordinances, and public education. Structural practices involve physical alterations to the system, as well as periodic inspection and maintenance of physical improvements. One type of structural practice is the use of rain water gardens or infiltration trenches, as well as rain barrels.

Mr. Brasch stated the main area to improve included control of fertilizers. He noted that soil testing could begin in the spring of 2008, and adoption of an ordinance could take place after the test results are known. The installation and location of rainwater gardens and other filtration features were presented. He explained that two areas in the City would be good candidates for the installation of infiltration features, such as St. Croix Street and Seventh Street, and at Burton Park.

Additional discussion was held regarding stormwater damage found going into Lake Mallalieu from a culvert and deteriorating brick flume. Mayor Breault recommended receiving specific readings and bringing them back. Discussion was also held regarding the possibility of banning phosphorus, as has been done in the Twin Cities. Mr. Brasch also noted that the DNR could fund 70% of some projects. The Lake Mallalieu Stormwater Assessment Report was placed on file in the Clerk’s office.

Hudson Booster Days event, July 3 through July 6, 2008: MOTION by Radermacher, second by Morrissette, to approve the use of Lakefront Park for the Hudson Booster Days event to be held July 3 through July 6, 2008. Mayor Breault added that $10,000 for the fireworks display would be available from the Room Tax fund. All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

Lakefront Park Bathhouse Concessions Agreement: MOTION by Radermacher, second by O’Malley, to advertise in the local paper a Request for Proposals to operate the concessions in the Lakefront Park Bathhouse for 2008. Radermacher noted that JW Kaladi’s declined to extend their Concession Agreement for 2008. Mayor Breault suggested that the City could consider operating the concessions. All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

Lakefront Park – Phase III Improvements: Radermacher reported that the Park Board recommended proceeding with the plans and specifications for the project. MOTION by Radermacher, second by O’Malley, to authorize Bonestroo to proceed with the plans and specifications for Phase III of the Lakefront Park Project. It was noted that the 2008 bond proceeds would be used for a funding source. Ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

Reconsider Request for Proposals for engineering firms and consider

2/11/08 revised engineering rate proposal from Bonestroo: O’Malley reviewed the 2/11/08 letter from Bonestroo with a revised hourly rate proposal. He noted that normally four engineering firms respond to the City’s request for proposals, and that we already work with three of the companies. He stated it would save the City time and money to accept the latest proposal from Bonestroo. Morrissette stated he wished to continue with the decision made at the last meeting.

Discussion was held regarding the quality of past projects. MOTION by O’Connell, second by O’Malley, to accept the proposal of Bonestroo for a less than 2% increase (for hourly engineering rates). Radermacher and Burchill noted that they would like to obtain Requests for Proposals.

Bonestroo Engineer Dennis Postler then offered a zero percent rate increase. MOTION AMENDED by O’Connell, second by O’Malley, to accept the Bonestroo engineering rates for 2008 with a zero percent increase. Vote taken: Ayes (3); Noes (3). Mayor Breault broke the tie and voted aye to accept the zero percent increase for Bonestroo 2008 hourly engineering rates. MOTION CARRIED.

IT Department update – Mike Kruger: IT Administrator Mike Kruger shared a handout with a review of the IT Plan and system status as of February 2008. The report included findings and recommendations. He detailed the items that have been accomplished and listed the issues remaining, which included adding remote users to the system, increasing file storage, implement document imaging, rewrite the website, update the current hardware and capabilities of the telephone system, and continue growth in mandated systems. Mr. Kruger noted that the Police Department issues are improving and people are adjusting to the new security measures. Mayor Breault congratulated Mr. Kruger on his achievements and noted it was a large challenge when he started.

Role of Police and Fire Commission re: Police Department procedures/guidelines: O’Malley explained that he had requested this agenda item and wanted to raise the visibility on the issue. He stated he believed people want to understand the process better. An overview of the Police and Fire Commission is available at City Hall.

Approval of seminars/training schedule for Police Department: City Administrator Devin Willi provided information regarding police classes held at Century College, and noted that for a $600 annual fee the classes meet some of the training requirements for the officers. Additional discussion was held regarding the curriculum.

communications and recommendations of the mayor: Mayor Breault announced that he and O’Malley reviewed all the evaluation forms and remarks with the City Administrator concerning his performance review, and that he will take them into consideration.

COMMUNICATIONS AND ITEMS FOR FUTURE AGENDAS: It was noted that Tom Beekman of the Department of Transportation was invited to attend the March 3^rd Council meeting regarding the feasibility of reopening the former I-94 exit 2 off ramp.

Radermacher requested an agenda item regarding the process of formulating a referendum question for a future Public Safety Building. He stated it could be included as part of a Special Meeting to be held jointly with the candidates to discuss the TIF District options. Mayor Breault agreed that it could be an agenda item for that special meeting.

Administrator Devin Willi stated he had contacted Barron County, and the individual they worked with, to obtain a copy of their Request for Proposals to consider making changes in their health insurance policy. He also thanked city staff and the election workers for their efforts during the February 19^th Primary Election. He noted that 2,741 people voted, which was approximately a 35% turnout, and twice as many as in February of 2004.

CLOSED SESSION pursuant to §19.85(1)(c), Wis. Stats. to discuss 2008 Compensation for wastewater treatment plant superintendent: MOTION by Morrissette, second by Burchill to convene into Closed Session pursuant to §19.85(1)(c), Wis. Stats. to discuss 2008 compensation for the Wastewater Treatment Plant Superintendent. Roll call vote, all ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED at 9:28 p.m.

Reconvene into Open Session for possible action re: 2008 Compensation for wastewater treatment plant superintendent: MOTION by O’Malley, second by O’Connell to reconvene into Open Session. All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED at 9:49 p.m. Mayor Breault stated no action would be taken until the City Attorney had time to review the changes suggested in Closed Session.

MOTION by O’Malley, second by O’Connell, to adjourn. All ayes (6). MOTION CARRIED at 9:49 p.m.

Nancy J. Korson, City Clerk

I hereby certify that the City Clerk has submitted the foregoing minutes to me, and I hereby by my signature approve said minutes and all acts of the Common Council as sent forth therein.

Jack D. Breault, Mayor