CITY OF HUDSON COMMON COUNCIL MEETING

MINUTES OF WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4, 2007

Meeting scheduled for 7:00 p.m. called to order by Mayor Jack Breault in the Council Chambers of City Hall at 7:20 p.m.

Mayor Breault led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance.

PRESENT: Mayor Breault and Alderpersons Randy Morrissette, Paul Radermacher, Lee Wyland, Scot O’Malley and Carah Koch.

ABSENT: Alderperson Dennis O’Connell.

OTHERS PRESENT: Catherine Munkittrick, Devin Willi, Denny Darnold, Jim Schreiber, Alan Burchill, Randy Hanson, Linda Donaldson, Roy Sjoberg, Dick Muenich, Patty Muenich, Dan Tjornehoj, Mark Kaisersatt, Stewart Erickson, Chuck Schwartz, Tim Erickson, John Clymer, Janet Clymer, Don Maysack, Gordy Knudson, Mary Bowen-Eggebraaten, Angela Popenhagen, Bill Friedlander, Sally Friedlander, Sheldon Johnson, Cindy Crimmins, Mark Crimmins, Diane Radle, Jan Buege, Troy Timm, Priscilla Wyeth, and others.

COMMENTS AND SUGGESTIONS FROM CITIZENS PRESENT:

CONSENT AGENDA: MOTION by Radermacher, second by O’Malley, to approve the following Consent Agenda items:

MINUTES: Approve the Public Hearing and Regular Meeting minutes of 3/19/07 and the Special Meeting Minutes of 3/26/07.

Claims: Approve the following claims for payment:

Fund	Description	PAYABLES	PAYROLL	Totals
100	General	97,758.81	150,259.74	248,018.55
230	Wisc DVL/RVL	45.00	0.00	45.00
260	Cable	98.00	0.00	98.00
310	Debt Service	268,707.07	0.00	268,707.07
450	Capital Projects	264.01	0.00	264.01
610	Sewer	79,777.87	8,525.23	88,303.10
620	Parking Utility	327.89	802.77	1,130.66
630	Ambulance	11,470.96	20,729.10	32,200.06
	TOTALS	$458,449.61	$180,316.84	$638,766.45

2. Applications for Operator’s Licenses: Approve the issuance of Regular Operator’s Licenses for the period 4/5/07 through 6/30/08 to:

James R. Flanscha 1120 7^th Street Hudson, WI

Kendal M. Moore 17 Wasson Ct. #46 River Falls, WI

Sabrina R. Wehunt 121 12^th Street S. Hudson, WI

Betsy M. Oehlke 854 290^th Street Woodville, WI

Joshua O. Schmidt 309 S. 10^th Street Hudson, WI

And Regular Operator’s Licenses for the period 4/5/07 to 6/30/09 to:

Brian E. Siedschlag 3036 20^th Ave Wilson, WI

Nathan M. Dusek E2044 770^th Ave Knapp, WI

Michael A. Murphy 816 Jefferson Road New Richmond, WI

And Temporary Operator’s Licenses to be used April 14 to 15, 2007 at the St. Patrick’s School Gala, to the following:

Lisa A. Dornfeld 1151 Helen St. N. Hudson, WI

Allen J. Omernik 1708 Grey Fox Lane Hudson, WI

Lyla L. Omernik 1708 Grey Fox Lane Hudson, WI

St. Croix E.M.S. write-offs: Approve the St. Croix E.M.S. write-offs in the amount of $44,642.72, as recommended by the St. Croix E.M.S. Commission and by LifeQuest, following Phase III of their collection procedures.

REPORTS OF CITY OFFICIALS, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS: Place on file the Community Access Board minutes of 3/27/07 and the St. Croix E.M.S. Commission minutes of 3/26/07.

Roll call vote, all ayes (5), MOTION CARRIED.

School District of Hudson petition for annexation of 41.993 acres, southeast quadrant of CTH F and Coulee Trail – Ordinance No. 5-07:

MOTION by Koch, second by Morrissette, to adopt the following:

ORDINANCE NO. 5-07

ANNEXING TERRITORY TO THE CITY OF HUDSON, WISCONSIN

(41.993 acres at SE quadrant of CTH F and Coulee Trail)

(Copy on file in Clerk’s office)

Mayor Breault stated that he appreciated the School Board members working with Staff and others regarding the design of the new school. He complimented them and thanked them for completing the traffic study, as requested.

Radermacher announced there was overwhelming response from the constituents in his district who were against the annexation, and he believed he needed to vote “no” as they indicated they wanted. O’Malley added that he had taken an oath to do what was in the best interest of the City, and not the School District, so he would also be voting “no.” He also called attention to the 1,800 feet of roadway that would become the City’s responsibility as a Mill and Overlay Project, when needed. He stated that would be a direct cost only to the City and not the other communities within the School District.

Denny Darnold pointed out that there were other tax-exempt properties in the City with similar situations. O’Malley also spoke about the capacity limits for the Wastewater Treatment Plant. Mayor Breault commented that Hudson was the fastest-growing City in St. Croix County, and St. Croix County was the fastest-growing county in the State. He noted that as the City is part of the growth, it should also be part of the solution regarding schools. Additional discussion was held regarding the amount of wastewater treatment capacity being held in reserve for the dog track. Discussion was also held concerning the fees for Fire Department and E.M.S. service. Information was shared about the need for a Wastewater Treatment Operator at the new school site, if the annexation did not occur and they did not receive City water and sewer service.

Other items mentioned for consideration were the City has one of the lowest property tax rates in the state, and having the school in the City would offer better road safety and protection for the environment. The water quality and water pressure for fire protection needs were discussed. Mayor Breault noted that another non-taxable facility in the City was WinterGreen, but that it offered wonderful benefits to the community. He also pointed out that a sprinkler system for the school would cost more if the building did not receive City water service.

O’Malley questioned the financial impact. Angela Popenhagen provided a summary of the costs. Additional discussion was held concerning the possible salary for a person to maintain a large septic system, and the septic system costs in the long run. It was noted that the septic system costs would mean that the School would need to cut costs in other areas of the facility. School Board member Mark Kaisersatt encouraged the Council to vote in favor of the annexation.

Vote taken by show of hands: Ayes (4); O’Malley voted No. MOTION CARRIED.

Review bids and consider purchase of two Parks Department vehicles: radermacher explained that the Park Board had reviewed the bids presented by City Mechanic Dan Ortner which he had obtained from local Chevrolet, Ford and Dodge dealerships. The Park Board recommendation was to purchase one 2008 Ford F-250 truck, and one 2008 Ford F-350 truck, for a total price of $45,400. He noted that the 2007 bond issue included funds for two Park vehicles in the amount of $47,000, and the total cost would be under the amount in the budget.

MOTION by Radermacher, second by O’Malley, to approve the purchase of one 2008 Ford F-250 truck, and one 2008 Ford F-350 truck for the Parks Department, at a total price of $45,400 as Option 4 from Dave Holt Ford. All ayes (5), MOTION CARRIED.

Review bids and consider purchase of a zero-turn riding lawn mower: Radermacher reported that another zero-turn lawn mower was needed, and two quotes were obtained. The Park Board reviewed the quotes and recommended purchasing the mower from St. Croix Outpost.

MOTION by Radermacher, second by O’Malley, to approve the purchase of a 2007 zero-turn lawn mower for the Parks Department from St. Croix Outpost at a cost of $10,900. It was noted that the 2007 Parks Budget included $16,000 for the mower. All ayes (5), MOTION CARRIED.

Consider revisions to City’s Banner Policy – Resolution No. 7-07: city Attorney Munkittrick reviewed the proposed Banner Policy including the change for no banners to be allowed from November 15^th to January 15^th. Reservations would only be allowed 12 months in advance, and the banners could hang for two weeks rather than just one week. She also included a list of documentation that could be submitted to show proof of non-profit status.

Discussion was held regarding many comments included in a letter from the Hudson Lions Club concerning the Banner Policy proposal. The difficulty in administering the policy was noted, as well as the fact that it would not be a revenue stream. Questions about political messages and fees were presented. Additional discussion took place regarding the types of permits that would be necessary from the Department of Transportation.

Mayor Breault noted that many other problems have come to light during the consideration of changes to the Banner Policy. MOTION by O’Malley, second by Morrissette, to make the banner wire only available for use by government units such as the City, the School District and the County, for community events. Information was provided by Attorney Munkittrick, noting that the sponsor would need to apply for a permit from the DOT, and it would have to be included with the application to the City of Hudson. Discussion was held concerning a banner encouraging people to vote. It was also noted that Departments within the City would be allowed to display a banner, no advertising would be allowed on the banners, and governmental units would still need to obtain a permit from the DOT. O’Malley AMENDED the motion, second by Morrissette, to include authorizing the billable hours for the City Attorney for work on the wording of the Resolution. All ayes (5), MOTION CARRIED.

Application of Hudson Booster Club for Special Event Permit for annual Booster Days event in Lakefront Park: Mayor Breault reported that the Hudson Booster Club was appealing the need for a $3 million insurance umbrella. Tim Filipiak stated that the insurance agency where he works had provided liability coverage for the Boosters for 20 years. He explained the process that he followed in order to comply with the $3 million umbrella required in the Special Event Permit. He stated that a $3 million policy would cost $4,500 for a four-day event, and a $1 million policy would cost $750. Attorney Munkittrick noted that Council could waive that provision, if they wished. She also noted that Wausau Insurance Companies had recommended the $3 million umbrella.

MOTION by O’Malley, second by Morrissette, to waive the $3 million liability insurance requirement for the Special Event Permit for the Hudson Booster Days Event, and change it to a $1 million policy. Attorney Munkittrick noted that it was reasonable to allow that change. O’Malley expressed concern for the volume of the noise created during the event. Discussion was held concerning possible solutions for the noise problem; Booster Club President Jim Londo stated that they were working on ways to solve that concern. All ayes (5), MOTION CARRIED.

Consider procedures for possible replacement of Public Works/Parks Director position: mayor Breault suggested that a Committee be formed to look at the costs involved, the pros and cons of whether to hire an engineer, the distribution of duties among existing employees, and the possible creation of Foreman positions in Parks and Public Works Departments. He reported that J.J. Barnes and Tom Zeuli were currently performing foreman duties. The need for hiring an engineer or using Bonestroo engineers when needed was discussed.

MOTION by O’Malley, second by Wyland, to authorize Mayor Breault, Administrator Willi, Attorney Munkittrick and Alderperson O’Malley to pursue different options for filling the Public Works and Parks Director position, in order to find out which approach could be better for the City. Mayor Breault pointed out that their recommendation would be forwarded to the Council for consideration. All ayes (5), MOTION CARRIED.

Review of Municipal Code, Chapter 202 re: temporary signs: mayor Breault stated there had been a request to review Chapter 202 of Municipal Code regarding temporary signs. William Upthall, owner/operator of Sign Results, LLC, offered his thanks for the opportunity to speak on the topic. He provided information from other area municipalities. Radermacher asked whether he should abstain, as his business was very similar. Attorney Munkittrick stated that would not be necessary, as a vote would not be taken at this meeting.

Mr. Upthall explained his business and products. He noted that his company specialized in the rental and service of portable, temporary signs that are an important advertising tool for area businesses. He noted that he had rented 20 signs in the City in the past, but since March 8^th he had to turn down four customers, due to the City’s Municipal Code. He cited reasons for using the signs, and popular uses. Mr. Upthall requested that a Committee work on possible changes to the current sign code, and noted his desire for the topic to be taken seriously.

MOTION by Wyland, second by O’Malley, to enforce the current sign regulations as written. Discussion was held regarding the enforcement of Chapter 202. Denny Darnold stated that some illegal signs were recently taken down, and there have also been problems with signs that were not removed after grand openings, open houses, etc. He offered to review the packet of information provided by Mr. Upthall and also have the Plan Commission look at it.

Darsie Paradise, owner of Fantastic Sam’s in Hudson, spoke concerning the use of Mr. Upthall’s signs at her business. She stated that the number of customers increased over one-third when the signs were used. She noted the signs were the least expensive and most effective type of signs, and they helped to generate revenue for the business.

Larry Joachim, of J.W. Kaladi’s, also agreed that the signs were beneficial to his business. He stated he lost 35% of business when the signs he had been using were taken down. He requested help in finding some way to allow more signage. It was again noted that the Plan Commission would review the information. All ayes (5), MOTION CARRIED.

Use of the agenda item: “Comments and Suggestions from Citizens Present.”: mayor Breault stated that he was aware that the “Comments and Suggestions from citizens present” agenda item has been used for more than 15 years, and he believed it was an effective way for concerns to be introduced, with possible placement on future agendas, if desired. Attorney Munkittrick explained that she needed to inform the Council of possible difficulties that could arise if the time was used for campaign or election purposes. Discussion was held regarding the difficulty in controlling topics and the amount of time a person would be allowed to speak.

Additional discussion was held regarding possible wording that could be included with the comments and suggestions portion of the agenda. Attorney Munkittrick provided the wording used by the City of Oshkosh, WI. She suggested that a rule be approved, and that it be placed on every agenda in standard form. There was also a suggestion to prohibit derogatory name-calling. Attorney Munkittrick advised that the Chairperson could handle keeping order and control that aspect.

MOTION by O’Malley, second by Wyland, to adopt the rule that individuals speaking to the Council under the heading “Comments and Suggestions from citizens present” are limited to five (5) minutes; must address items that are not listed on the Council meeting agenda, are limited to issues that have an impact on the City of Hudson, and that the Common Council may address at a future meeting, and must not include endorsements of any candidates or other electioneering. An exception to the five (5) minutes may be made at the discretion of the Council; and that the wording be included on every agenda. All ayes (5), MOTION CARRIED.

Public Library 2006 Annual Report: Library Director Linda Donaldson called attention to the Library’s 2006 Annual Report and noted that they circulated 286,865 items that year. She stated that was up 32,000 items from the previous year. She also pointed out that attendance at special programs was 13,000 adults and children, including the visits to the schools by the Children’s Librarian. Ms. Donaldson also shared information that the Library had one of the lowest costs per-circulation in the area, at $2.06 per circulation. She also noted that other libraries nearby have costs of $4.71 and $2.49 per circulation. She emphasized that the Joint Library was very conservative with their money. It was also announced that a donation of $41,800 was received from the Donna Peterson Trust Fund. Mayor Breault stated that Library was doing a great job and he congratulated them on their budgeting efforts.

COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE MAYOR: None.

COMMUNICATIONS AND ITEMS FOR FUTURE AGENDAS: Administrator Devin Willi announced the results from the April 3, 2007 Spring Election and stated there was an overall voter turnout of 11%. He also explained that a third polling place is likely to be established in 2008.

Mayor Breault congratulated Scot O’Malley and Randy Morrissette II on their reelection, as well as Alan Burchill, the winner of the Council position in Aldermanic District 6.

Radermacher thanked Carah Koch for her involvement as Alderperson in District 6 for the past four years.

Denny Darnold requested a joint meeting of the Plan Commission and Common Council on Thursday, April 12, 2007 at 7:00 p.m.

MOTION by Radermacher, second by O’Malley, to adjourn at 8:50 p.m. All ayes (5). MOTION CARRIED.

Nancy 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