CITY OF HUDSON COMMON COUNCIL

SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES OF MONDAY, APRIL 9, 2007

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

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

OTHERS PRESENT: Devin Willi, Catherine Munkittrick, Denny Darnold, Tom Redner, Betty Caruso, Gordon Conard, Deanne Bauer, Dennis Kroll, Jeanie Castro, Corey Oberdas, Fred Lowe, Bob Muchlinski, Randy Hanson, Chuck Schwartz, Nancy Fuchs, Alan Burchill, Don Gilbert, Shelly Rosenberger, Sarah Atkins, Jerry Bauer, David and Judy Wickstrom, John Wanner, Tom Irwin, Ronda Schrader, and others.

Mayor Breault led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Mayor Breault announced that the purpose of the forum and Special Council meeting was to hear comments regarding the proposed Lakefront Park River Walk Project. He stated that presentations would be given and comments from the audience would be heard regarding their opinions of the proposed River Walk Project involving a picnic shelter with restrooms, plus water and service to the facility. He also noted that the bids could be considered, funding would also be discussed, and Council could take possible action.

Paul Radermacher gave a PowerPoint presentation that included a brief history of the Parks Department’s Comprehensive Plan from January of 2005. The $2.5 million 2007 bond issue proceeds have also been received. He stated that two-thirds of the bond funds were designated for Lakefront Park, the “crown jewel” in the Parks system and the most popular park. The Lakefront Park Seawall Project was also highlighted. He stated that the second area of concern was the River Walk Improvements Project, noting that lighting, benches, and planters were to be funded by the 2007 bond issue. He cited many reasons why the facility would be advantageous to the area residents, recreational boaters, and tourists.

Radermacher reviewed the site location and reminded that the original plans for a pavilion and restrooms at the end of the Dike Road were presented by the Rotary Club in the fall of 2003. He stated that at that time there was a motion by O’Malley and second by Koch to approve the concept plan and proceed with the project. He shared information about working with the DNR to obtain their approval, and also discussed flooding and vandalism issues. He noted that a sub-committee was formed to explore and advise about a security plan. They recommended having the School Liaison Officer patrol the downtown area and Lakefront Park during the summer months, with Casual Call officers to augment when necessary. He also noted that Parks personnel could open and close the shelter and work jointly with the Police Department to provide nighttime presence.

Discussion was held regarding signage and gates. The design of a possible entrance to the River Walk area was shown. Radermacher reviewed funding and noted that the Project was $14,000 over budget. Finance Officer Betty Caruso gave further explanation regarding project costs. Radermacher fielded questions from Council members and citizens present. O’Connell questioned the issue of variances. Community Development Director Denny Darnold stated that the Plan Commission addressed the variances, but Council did not.

Discussion was held regarding the possibility of purchasing security cameras and also including funds for security gates with the shelter costs. O’Malley questioned who would be responsible for notifying and enforcing the Park hours at the end of the Dike Road. Discussion was held regarding possible alternatives. The possibility of raising the boat launch fees to offset future costs was shared.

Dennis Kroll voiced concerns regarding operational costs and budget items. He stated that the Minneapolis Parks Department uses satellite restrooms in their Park System. John Van Allen asked whether there would be any penalties or tickets issued for violations, and Radermacher stated that the Park Board had considered them.

Deanne Bauer expressed concern for the plumbing fixtures. Radermacher stated that they would not be porcelain but would be metal and less likely to be vandalized.

Corey Oberdas, 801 Laurel Avenue, cited the need for consistent patrolling and felt the costs should be included up-front. Don Gilbert, Chairman of the Park Board, shared information regarding patrolling of the area. He stated that in addition to the Police Department, the Park Board members and the general public could help as well.

Jeannie Castro, 1312 Third Street, voiced her opinion that the current Bathhouse and swimming beach should be improved before implementing the River Walk Project. She cited the need for a well-run, safe, clean, fenced beach area. Sherri Rosenberger agreed and voiced her concern for possible future problems.

Sarah Atkins questioned the possibility of a sewer leak. Mayor Breault noted that the pipes would be underground, which should eliminate that possibility. She voiced concern about the condition of the Parks and requested recycling containers.

Tom Irwin questioned the difference between a holding tank and regular sewer pipe service. A $41,000 cost difference was given. Additional information was shared regarding the annual cost for maintaining a holding tank.

O’Malley gave a PowerPoint presentation which cited his reasons for opposing the River Walk Shelter Project. He stated that he had mailed out cards to 400 persons in his District, and had received 285 responses concerning the River Walk Shelter. He stated 26% were in favor of the shelter, and 74% were opposed. Examples were shown of restrooms in other City parks.

Discussion was held regarding the size of the structure, as first proposed. Additional discussion was held concerning funding and Impact Fees. Betty Caruso clarified the use of Impact Fees.

Tom Redner, 714 Wisconsin Street, introduced the topic of attractive nuisances. He voiced concern for policing the facility and vandalism.

Bob Muchlinski called attention to the DNR Chapter 30 permits for the project, and stated that he had written a letter to the WI Department of Natural Resources and voiced his concerns. Radermacher stated that he was informed that they do not need a permit, even with the changes to the project. Additional discussion was held regarding DNR Chapter 30, and the plan and maintenance of the sewer system.

Tom Irwin voiced concern for the operational costs of enforcement. He suggested involving the DNR and other agencies, along with the City, to be responsible for on-going operating costs. O’Malley reminded that the DNR grant funds were good until 2009.

Additional questions were raised regarding insurance coverage and any other options for having a shelter facility without sewer and water service.

Ronda Schrader, 1219 Red Oak Road, suggested exploring more “green” options to make the Parks more environmentally aware. She stated that nature should be incorporated and suggested installing a bird-watching platform. She also suggested interpretative signage to share information about the history of the site, invasive species, wildlife, etc. She also suggested allowing a concession stand to be operated by a non-profit agency.

Chuck Schwartz, Bonestroo engineer, announced that the bids for both projects were opened March 15^th and were good for 60 days.

MOTION by Radermacher, second by Morrissette, to approve the bid in the amount of $259,600 from Ross and Associates, River Falls, WI for the River Walk Picnic Shelter Facility Project. During discussion, Wyland stated he believed the project was a good idea, but possibly before its time. He cited the need for many other Park projects to be done first.

Radermacher reminded of the money already invested and the cost involved to readvertise for bids, if Council did not take action within the 60 day time period. He also stated that an application for a $525,000 grant was submitted to the DNR for Prospect Park. O’Malley pointed out that the largest grant awarded was for $17,000. He also noted the results of a Star Observer poll asking whether citizens were in favor of improvements at the end of the Dike Road, and noted that the majority said “No.”

Additional discussion was held regarding the restrooms in other City parks. Radermacher stated that funds were available for the upgrades, but they have not been able to proceed quite yet. He also noted the priority list for projects that was established.

Koch stated her opinion that many District 6 residents use Lakefront Park, and families would appreciate restrooms at the end of the Dike Road, after taking a long walk. She also noted that the majority of the people polled in her District were in favor of the project. She also believed this would have minimal impact on the City’s entire budget, and it would make the City a better place.

More discussion was held regarding project costs, and how many people were in favor, or opposed to the project. Rick Holloway, Sherry Rosenberger, Dennis Kroll, Mark Malchow, and Lisa Schlemmer all voiced their opinions for and against the project. Park Board Chairman Don Gilbert shared his opinion in favor of the project and stated that the City should take advantage of the river as a great asset. He noted that the funding was in place and the project was ready to move ahead. He also stated that the whole downtown area would benefit. He also addressed the difficulties in the process.

Mayor Breault thanked everyone for their comments and suggestions. He also believed that many items were needed in several other City parks. He stated that he agreed that the original plan for the shelter at $200,000 was a good idea, but an additional $250,000 was not. He called for a vote on the question by a show of hands: Ayes: Koch, Radermacher, Morrissette (3); Opposed: O’Malley, O’Connell, Wyland (3). Mayor Breault broke the tie by voting No. MOTION FAILED.

MOTION by Radermacher, second by O’Connell to adjourn at 9:29 p.m. All ayes (6). MOTION CARRIED.

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