CITY OF HUDSON COMMON COUNCIL MEETING

MINUTES OF MONDAY, AUGUST 16, 2010

 

 

     Meeting called to order by Mayor Dean Knudson in the Council Chambers of City Hall at 7:00 p.m.  Mayor Knudson led those presenting the Pledge of Allegiance.

 

     PRESENT:   Mayor Knudson, Alderpersons Randy Morrissette, Mary Yacoub, Lori Bernard, Lee Wyland, Scot O’Malley and Alan Burchill.

 

     OTHERS PRESENT:  Nancy Korson, Cathy Munkittrick, Paul Larson, Denny Darnold,  Devin Willi, Steve Kinney, Kim Heinemann, Pat and Shirley Gonda, Chuck Schwartz, Randy Hanson, Gordon Conard, Mike O’Brien, Nathan Gramley, and others.

 

     COMMENTS AND SUGGESTIONS FROM CITIZENS PRESENT:  Kim Heinemann of the Hudson Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau updated the Council on activities and events in the Hudson area.  She noted that the web site had over 1,000,000 hits for the first time ever in the month of July.  She stated that it had been a great summer for tourists, and that the visit by the Nina and the Pinta ships attracted about 15,000 visitors alone.  Ms. Heinemann indicated that the Good Morning Hudson event for new teachers sold out this year and the Spirit of St Croix Art Festival would be held September 25th and 26th.  She provided the first quarter spending report from the Chamber to the Council.

 

     CONSENT AGENDA: MOTION by Morrissette, second by Burchill to approve the following consent agenda items:

 

     minutes:  Approve the Regular meeting minutes of 8/02/10.

 

     Claims:  Approve the following claims for payment:

 

FUND

DESCRIPTION

PAYABLES

PAYROLL

TOTALS

100

General

175,986.70

139,417.24

315,403.94

280

Park Donations

797.80

0.00

797.80

450

Capital Projects

21,850.74

0.00

21,850.74

610

Sewer

31,156.34

12,031.60

43,187.94

620

Parking

219.79

992.31

1,212.10

630

Ambulance

6,338.70

7,655.37

13,994.07

 

Totals

236,350.07

160,096.52

396,446.59

 

     Applications for Operator’s Licenses:  Approve the issuance of Regular Operator’s Licenses for the period 08/17/10 to 6/30/12 to:

 

     David L. Craig             549 Old Hwy 35             Hudson, WI

     Anna E. Johannsen          1027 St. Croix St. N.      Hudson, WI

     Sheila M. Utech           108 S. 11th Street         Hudson, WI

 

     Application of American Safe & Sober Transit Service for Taxicab Service License:   Approve the issuance of a Taxicab Service License to American Safe & Sober Transit Service/Nathan Gramley, contingent on any additional drivers becoming licensed as taxicab drivers in the City.

 

     Consider repair costs for the sidewalk on Walnut Street Bridge: Approve proceeding with sidewalk repairs to the Walnut Street Bridge in the amount of $1,414.30, and funded by the 2010 Capital Projects/Interim Financing.

 

     Consider roof repair costs for the East Public Works Garage:  Approve the quote from “In Motion” for roof repairs to the East City Garage in the amount of $4,000, to be funded by the 2010 Capital Projects/Interim Financing.

 

     Consider inspection costs and report for the Walnut Street Bridge:  Approve Bonestroo proceeding with the inspection and report for the Walnut Street Bridge at a cost of $5,000, to be funded by the 2010 Capital Projects/Interim Financing.

 

     Consider quotes received for additional lettering on tourism signs:  Approve the proposal from Sign Me Up for 4½ inch lettering on the largest signs at $59 per section, and up to 18 possible sections, to be funded by the Public Works Sign Budget.

 

Consider bids received for providing diesel fuel and gasoline to the City for the period 9/1/10 through 8/31/11:  Approve awarding the City fuel contract for 9/1/10 through 8/31/11 to Yocum Oil Company.

 

Consider quotes received for the 2010 short-term financing:  Approve accepting the quote from First American Bank ($411,000 at 2%) and authorize the City Administrator/Interim Treasurer, City Attorney,      and Ehlers & Associates to proceed with finalizing the 2010 short- term financing.

 

     Consider request to remove parking space on north side of Vine Street just west of the parking lot entrance:  Approve removing the parking space on the north side of Vine Street just west of the parking lot entrance at 700 First Street.

 

 Request to restrict parking on the south side of Hanley Road between O’Keefe Rd. and Industrial St. on 8/22/10 for a car show and book sale:  Approve restricting parking on the south side of the 1800 block of Hanley Road (between O’Keefe Road and Industrial Street) from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for the Rally in the Valley Car Show and book sale.

 

     Consider request of Amber Erickson to barricade 7th St. between Orange and Myrtle Street for a block party on 9/25/10 from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m.  Approve the request of Amber Erickson to barricade 7th Street between Orange and Myrtle Street for a block party on 9/25/10 from 4:00 to 9:00 p.m.

 

      REPORTS OF CITY OFFICIALS, BOARDS, and COMMISSIONS:  Place on file the

annual report of the Assessor.

 

Roll call vote taken:  All ayes (6) MOTION CARRIED.

 

CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR A LAND DIVISION (SUBDIVISION) IN THE LOWER ST. CROIX RIVER SCENIC RIVERWAY, 700 FIRST STREET/101 VINE STREET AND 701 SECOND STREET – CITY OF HUDSON:  Denny Darnold stated that the Plan Commission recommended the approval of the land division/subdivision submitted by the City.  He indicated that the Zoning Board of Appeals had approved a variance on the rear year setback.  Darnold explained which properties were involved and the reason for splitting the parcel.

 

     MOTION by O’Malley, second by Wyland, to approve the conditional use permit for a land division as requested by the City of Hudson (for 700 First Street/101 Vine Street and 701 Second Street) with the condition that the variance is approved to allow the rear yard setback to be reduced from 25 feet to 7 feet, and that the Plan Commission finds the following:

 

Preserve scenic and recreational resources:  The proposed land division does not change the physical conditions of the site.

 

Maintain safe and healthful conditions:  The provision of the access easement will allow additional opportunities to access the building at 701 Second Street from Vine Street.

 

Prevent and control of water pollution, including sedimentation:  The proposed land division does not change the physical characteristics of the site.  Changes in the site improvements may occur in the future, but will need to comply with the zoning code (including scenic riverway) and building code requirements.

 

Address floodway, floodplains, slope preservation zones and bluffline:  Slopes on the north side of the proposed lot 2 (701 Second Street) exists, however, there is no disruption proposed slopes. If future development is proposed it will need to comply with the zoning and building codes.  The sites, 700 First Street and 701 Second Street are not located in designated floodplain or floodplain areas.

 

Erosion potential:  There is the potential for erosion if the slopes are not adequately maintained.

 

Impact on terrestrial and aquatic habitat:  It is not foreseen that there should be any impact on terrestrial or aquatic habitat.

 

Proximity to existing or future access roads:  The two (2) proposed lots are served by three (3) existing streets (First, Second and Vine Streets).

 

Adequacy of wastewater treatment capacity:  The city has adequate wastewater treatment capacity.

 

Compatibility of land uses:  Uses of the existing buildings are for public library, police department facilities and office and retail uses.

 

All ayes (6) MOTION CARRIED.

 

     CERTIFIED SURVEY MAP CREATING TWO COMMERCIAL LOTS IN THE B-3, CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT – CITY OF HUDSON:  Denny Darnold explained that this item would approve the survey creating the two lots for 701 Second Street and 700 First Street/101 Vine Street.  MOTION by Burchill, second by Bernard, to approve the proposed two lot Certified Survey Map, with the condition that the variance is granted permitting the rear yard setback to be reduced from 25 feet to seven (7) feet.  All ayes (6) MOTION CARRIED.

 

     CONSIDER PROCEEDING TO FILL VACANCY IN 2ND FLOOR RECEPTIONIST-ACCOUNT CLERK POSITION:  Mayor Knudson noted that the Finance Committee had reviewed a number of options proposed by the City Administrator and recommended that the position be filled, with a provision for cross-training on voucher data entry in the updated position description. 

 

     MOTION by Morrissette, second by O’Malley, to approve the filling of the vacancy on the 2nd floor, to authorize the City Administrator to update the position description, including a provision that the position be cross-trained on voucher data entry, to authorize the posting of the position internally as a Receptionist/Account Clerk I level, and if there are no internal candidates, that the position be advertised to the public.  All ayes (6) MOTION CARRIED.

 

     CONSIDER PROPOSALS FOR 2011 AND 2012 ASSESSMENTS SERVICES TO THE CITY:

Denny Darnold reported the Finance Committee had recommended that the 2011 assessment revaluation contract and 2012 assessment maintenance contract be awarded to Accurate Appraisals.  Mayor Knudson noted that there has been a lengthy history with Bowmar Appraisals, and that the staff recommended remaining with Bowmar, in spite of the price differential.  Darnold noted, however, that both firms had excellent references.  He indicated that there was a concern with Accurate that, because they did not contact the City for details on the City’s assessment needs, that they might not have a thorough understanding of the uniqueness of the City’s properties.  Knudson reiterated that the decision was not related to Bowmar’s services, but related to the $27,000 difference in the quotes. 

 

     MOTION by O’Malley, second by Wyland, that the 2011 assessment revaluation contract and 2012 assessment maintenance contract be awarded to Accurate Appraisals. 

 

     Bernard commented that she appreciated how difficult it was for staff to make the transition, and that she appreciated the honest comments from those involved.  O’Malley echoed Bernard’s remarks and that Accurate could now begin to start a history with us.  Morrissette also indicated his appreciation for the staff’s input and honesty and expressed concern about the apparent lack of inquiry by Accurate.  Yacoub questioned whether Bowmar could be asked to match the price provided by Accurate.  Mayor Knudson indicated that although service contracts aren’t required to be bid, if we seek quotes and then negotiate with the current provider, other firms would not bid in the future.  Yacoub stated she understood.  Mayor Knudson stated that there could be issues if Accurate doesn’t handle the revaluation, but all indications are that they have a good track record.  He also stated that if the price difference was smaller, it would be easier for the Council to consider remaining with Bowmar.  Further discussion ensued concerning Accurate’s customer service in other communities, the cost difference between the two proposals, and public availability.  Ayes (5), Noes (1) (Morrissette)- MOTION CARRIED.

 

     RECONSIDER PARKING RESTRICTION ON RIVER RIDGE ROAD:  Morrissette asked that this be pulled from the Consent Agenda to make certain everyone was clear that the Public Safety Committee reconsidered their earlier decision and now recommended no parking on the west side of the road only.  Knudson provided a history of the past parking restrictions and what had been approved earlier in the summer.  After the change was implemented, additional complaints came from residents, and the Public Safety Committee members felt that the signage should be returned to the original configuration.  The change was already implemented. 

 

     MOTION by Morrissette, second by O’Malley to approve no parking only on the west side of River Ridge Road from Mont Croix to Mayer Road.  Wyland and Tom Zeuli noted that changes had been made along the east side of the road, including clearing brush, which reduced the concerns about parking on the east side.  Discussion included the involvement of the Fire Department in the decision, and the process by which the decisions were made about the signs.  All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

 

     UPDATE ON PROJECTS:  Chuck Schwartz indicated that the areas of concern with the 2009 projects had been remedied by the contractor.  The 2010 Street Improvements, Curb & Gutter, and Sidewalk projects would get underway following the approval of the special assessments.  He indicated that these were City projects and that Bonestroo would only be involved if requested by Tom Zeuli.  Baer Drive was completed except for shouldering.  Heggen Street mill and overlay will commence after Labor Day and is scheduled for completion by October 1st. Lengthy discussion took place concerning curb and gutter, including expected lifespan, testing procedures, what causes premature disintegration, and areas in the City where these issues exist, including several subdivisions built in the mid-to-late 1990’s.  Schwartz indicated that the City’s quality requirements for curb and gutter are higher than those of the DOT. 

 

     SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS FOR 2010 SIDEWALK, CURB AND GUTTER REPLACEMENT PROJECT – FINAL RESOLUTION NO. 15-10:  A brief discussion was held concerning the curb and gutter in Jacobson’s Woods.  Tom Zeuli indicated the road condition was poor, as was the curb and gutter in many areas of the subdivision.  MOTION by O’Malley, second by Burchill, to suspend the rules toward adoption of Resolution No. 15-10.  Roll call vote, all ayes (6),     Motion CARRIED.

 

MOTION by O’Malley, second by Morrissette, to adopt the following:

 

FINAL RESOLUTION NO. 15-10

AUTHORIZING 2010 SIDEWALK, CURB & GUTTER

REPLACEMENT PROGRAM SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS

 

(Copy on file in Clerk’s office)

 

All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

 

     SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS FOR CURB AND GUTTER REPLACEMENTS IN 2010 MILL AND OVERLAY PROJECT – FINAL RESOLUTION NO. 16-10.  MOTION by O’Malley, second by Burchill, to suspend the rules toward adoption of Resolution No. 16-10.    Roll call vote, All ayes  Motion CARRIED. All ayes (6).   MOTION by O’Malley, second by Wyland, to adopt the following:

 

FINAL RESOLUTION NO. 16-10

AUTHORIZING 2010 MILL & OVERLAY PROJECT SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS

 

(Copy on file in Clerk’s office)

 

     The Council discussed Mr. Kinney’s concern about the size of his assessment, the potential for the sale of the property, potential curb cuts in the new curb and gutter, and potential adjustments to the Special Assessment Policy regarding payback periods.  Tom Zeuli indicated that the curb and gutter definitely needs to be replaced and should be done to be consistent with similar projects done in the past several years.  Mayor Knudson recommended, and the Council concurred, that the policy regarding Special Assessments could be addressed at a future meeting, but that the

contract needed to be approved so work could commence.  All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

 

     CONSIDER AMENDING MUNICIPAL CODE RE:  ODD/EVEN PARKING:  Mayor Knudson indicated that Ordinance 12-10 (version 1) had been developed by a subcommittee, and the proposal had been approved by both the Public Works and Public Safety committees.  He stated that Yacoub had made an alternative proposal, and he had prepared an alternate to the ordinance (version 2) that reflected many of Yacoub’s suggestions. 

 

     O’Malley stated that he felt the issue was being overanalyzed.  He stated that a decision needed to be made on how notification would be made to citizens, and whether odd/even parking was needed, or whether all vehicles should be removed from the streets, similar to a snow emergency in several communities.  

 

     Bernard reported that, as the issue had been discussed since April, there had been plenty of opportunity for input.  The committees had reviewed the issue several times, and she expressed her frustration that a last minute proposal came forward.  She didn’t feel that a resolution could be reached on an amended proposal as there was too much disagreement on the issue.  She stated that she wanted a vote on the ordinance approved by the committees. 

 

     Yacoub noted that she had been consistent in her feelings on the matter and her opposition to the proposal.  She felt it would be more cost effective to implement her proposals, and discussed the concerns she had with the times and days of enforcement for the odd/even proposal, and other issues.

 

     O’Malley stated that the most important reason for getting the vehicles off the streets was to provide access to residences for emergency vehicles, plows and other city equipment.  Any type of parking restriction will result in some difficulty for City residents, but that citizens would have to recognize the value of having the streets plowed curb to curb.

 

     MOTION by Burchill, second by Bernard, to suspend the rules toward adoption of Ordinance 12-10 (version 1) as recommended and approved by the Public Works and Public Safety Committees.  Roll call vote.  Ayes (2, Burchill, Bernard);  Noes (4, Wyland, Yacoub, O’Malley, Morrissette) MOTION FAILED. 

 

     MOTION by O’Malley, second by Wyland, to send the issue back for further discussion by a Committee of the Whole.  MOTION WITHDRAWN by O’Malley.

 

     MOTION by Morrissette to table the matter; MOTION DIED for the lack of a second.

 

     Wyland stated that, for him, it was no longer a question of odd/even parking, but agreed with O’Malley that the cars needed to get off the street so that effective plowing could take place.

 

     MOTION by O’Malley, second by Wyland to send the issue back for further discussion by a Committee of the Whole.  Ayes (3), O’Malley, Wyland, Yacoub); Noes (3), Bernard, Burchill, Morrissette).  Mayor Knudson voted yes. MOTION CARRIED.

 

     CONSIDER SEEKING ENGINEERING PROPOSALS, AND REFER TO PUBLIC WORKS TO DEVELOP AN RFP AND ADVERTISEMENT.  MOTION by O’Malley, second by Burchill to direct the Public Works Committee to develop a Request for Proposals and Advertisement for engineering services, and to proceed with advertising.  All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

 

     COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE MAYOR:  Mayor Knudson indicated that there was a vacancy on the Joint Library Board, as Mike Hipsher was moving from the City.  He asked the Council to offer any suggestions, and stated that if anyone from the community was interested in serving on the Board, they could contact him.

 

     Mayor Knudson also noted that he had received the latest edition of Municipal Facts published by the Wisconsin Taxpayer’s Alliance. He indicated that the publication provided tax and spending information for Wisconsin’s municipalities.  He noted that there was a wide range of shared revenue amounts received by St. Croix communities, ranging from $154 per person in River Falls to $18 per person in Hudson.  He also noted that the Hudson City Hall was on the cover of this year’s publication.

 

     CLOSED SESSION.  MOTION by Wyland, second by Bernard, to enter into Closed Session pursuant to 19.85 (1)(g) Wis. Stats. to confer with legal counsel who is rendering oral or written advice regarding strategy to be adopted by the body regarding litigation in which the City of Hudson is involved, i.e., Lifeline, d/b/a Lifequest v. City of Hudson, and Sharon Horne Ellstrom, LLC v. City of Hudson.  Roll call vote, all ayes (6),  MOTION CARRIED at 8:40 p.m.

 

     RECONVENE IN OPEN SESSION.  MOTION by O’Malley, second by Yacoub, to reconvene into open session at 9:22 p.m.  MOTION CARRIED.  All ayes (6).

 

     ADJOURNMENT:  MOTION by O’Malley, second by Yacoub to adjourn the meeting at 9:23 p.m.  MOTION CARRIED. All ayes (6).

 

Devin J. Willi, City Administrator

 

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

 

Dean R. Knudson, Mayor