CITY OF HUDSON COMMON COUNCIL MEETING

MINUTES OF MONDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2008

 

 

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

 

 

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

 

OTHERS PRESENT:  Devin Willi, Cathy Munkittrick, Betty Caruso, Denny Darnold, Tom Zeuli, Jim Schreiber, Marty Jensen, Jim Frye, Kim Heinemann, Pat Sherley, John Potter, Jean Maher, Jim Lutiger, Greg Sarno, Gordon Conard, Randy Hanson, Chuck Schwartz, Allen Grayum, and others.

 

     COMMENTS AND SUGGESTIONS FROM CITIZENS PRESENT:  None.

 

     CONSENT AGENDA:    MOTION by Bernard, second by Brokaw, to approve the following Consent Agenda items:

 

MINUTES:  Approve the Regular Meeting minutes of 11/10/08.

 

    Claims:  Approve the following claims for payment:

 

 FUND

DESCRIPTION

PAYABLES

PAYROLL

TOTALS

100

General

286,756.88

179,708.56

466,465.44

310

Debt Service

43,409.10

0.00

43,409.10

450

Capital Projects

11,217.14

0.00

11,217.14

610

Sewer

26,784.79

9,811.26

36,596.05

620

Parking

2,210.15

1,014.57

3,224.72

630

Ambulance

9,588.83

7,461.24

17,050.07

 

Totals

$379,966.89

$197,995.63

$577,962.52

 

Application of Richard Inlow for Secondhand Jewelry Dealer’s License:

Approve the renewal and issuance of a Secondhand Jewelry Dealer’s License to Richard Inlow d/b/a Inlow Designs, 523 Second Street, Hudson, WI.

 

 Approve the Dec. 5 Candlelight Stroll and Dec. 6 Reindeer in the Park events:  Approve the Friday, December 5th Candlelight Stroll event and the Reindeer in the Park event to be held Saturday, December 6th, and to include approval for a fire pit near the bandshell on Saturday, December 6th, contingent upon agreement by the Fire Chief and the Public Works and Parks Director. 

 

 Consider children at play signage in Hudson Meadows Addition:  Approve “Children at Play” signage in the Hudson Meadows Addition, if the residents are willing to pay for them.

 

 Approve Hot Air Affair event planned for February 6-8, 2009:  Approve the Hot Air Affair event, Torchlight Parade and schedule of activities planned for February 6, 7 and 8, 2009.

 

     REPORTS OF CITY OFFICIALS, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS:  Place on file the quarterly reports of the Library Director and the Water Utility      Director, and the Public Utility Commission minutes of 11/11/08.

 

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

 

Applications for Operator’s Licenses:  Morrissette recused himself.  Mayor Knudson noted that the Finance Committee recommended approval.  MOTION by O’Malley, second by Wyland, to approve issuance of Regular Operator’s Licenses for the period 11/25/08 to 6/30/10 to the following:

 

     David LeRoy Craig         49 Old Hwy 35              Hudson, WI

     Cade J. DiLaura           60 Main Street            River Falls, WI

     Sherrie L. Eifealdt       45 Sherman Road           Hudson, WI

     Lori A. Elliott           32 Summer Pines Circle     Hudson, WI

     Linnea M. Morgen           919 Pineridge Terrace      River Falls, WI

     Heather Jo Schonhardt      821 First Street           Hudson, WI

     Jon David Walter           329 6th Street N.          Hudson, WI

 

ayes (5), MOTION CARRIED.

 

Retirement and replacement of a Police Dept. Patrol Officer:  mayor Knudson noted that Police Officer Ziemek had given his notice to retire on 2/1/09 and Chief Jensen has requested replacement of the position on January 3, 2009.   He noted there would be an overlap during that time that would not impact their budget and the Finance Committee had recommended approval.  MOTION by Wyland, second by Morrissette, to approve the hiring of a new Police Patrol Officer on or after 1/3/09 to fill Officer Ziemek’s position.  All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

 

Review of job descriptions for Fire Dept. Assistant Chief positions:  mayor Knudson explained that the Assistant Fire Chief positions have been in existence but never had job descriptions.  He stated that Fire Chief Jim Frye prepared the detailed job descriptions and the Finance Committee recommended approval.  MOTION by O’Malley, second by Wyland, to approve the 11/21/08 drafts of the job descriptions for the Fire Department First Assistant Chief and Second Assistant Chief positions, as submitted.  All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

 

Application of Hudson Hockey Association for Temporary Class “B”/”Class B” Retailer’s License to sell beer at Hudson Crusaders hockey game on 12/06/08:  mayor Knudson noted previous approval was given for beer sales at a Hudson Crusaders Hockey game; he noted that attendance was very light on November 22nd and Police Chief Jensen reported that there were no problems.  He stated that the Finance Committee recommended approval for one more game on December 6th and to continue to review each application on an individual basis.  Administrator Willi noted the contingency that, prior to issuance of the license, they provide the name of the licensed operator that would be working at the event.  Burchill recused himself.

 

MOTION by O’Malley, second by Morrissette, to deny the application of the Hudson Hockey Association for a Temporary Class “B”/”Class B” Retailer’s License to sell beer at Hudson Crusaders hockey game on 12/06/08.  O’Malley stated that he saw no purpose in this approval, as he did not intend to vote for a series of these temporary licenses. 

 

In discussion, it was noted that obtaining such a license twice each summer was very different than this request for every other week in a season.  Attorney Munkittrick explained the City’s temporary license requirements for the non-profits, as authorized under State law.  She noted that additional restrictions could be adopted by the Council, and added that the reasons for denial should be articulated.  Bernard stated that to avoid a string of these license applications, perhaps the Council should consider amending the Municipal Code. It was noted that it could be viewed as unfair or arbitrary to deny the license due to the fear that the applicant would return and apply again.

 

O’Malley stated his concern that minors were involved,  and recommended denial in this situation.  He noted that a once in a while fund-raiser would seem more appropriate.  Brief discussion was held on the possibility of restricting the number of such temporary licenses, and the criteria for denying them.  Vote taken (to deny the license):  Ayes (3) O’Malley, Morrissette, and Brokaw; Noes (2), Bernard and Wyland.  MOTION CARRIED.   

 

Proposal from Honeywell re:  Energy Conservation Study:  Mayor Knudson stated the Finance Committee’s recommendation to approve the expenditure of not to exceed $8,400 for an Energy Efficiency Study by Honeywell.  Devin Willi explained that a preliminary study was completed, but a more detailed comprehensive report was necessary to indicate the possible projects Council might wish to consider.  Mayor Knudson explained that some additional work was needed on the wording of the contract before the agreement is entered into.  He noted that $70,000 was placed in the 2009 budget for energy upgrades, and he recommended moving forward with this process. 

 

MOTION by O’Malley, second by Wyland to approve entering into a Project Development Agreement with Honeywell Energy Services Group at a cost not to exceed $8,400, with the contingency that the City Attorney will work on modifying the contract language.  All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

 

     Consider purchase of street de-icing equipment:  o’malley reported on discussions with Public Works & Parks Director Tom Zeuli, and City mechanic Dan Ortner.  He explained that $25,000 was included in the 2009 budget for pre-wetting the road salt with calcium chloride to make it more effective.  The All Season Sprayer is a different process that would apply an anti-icing solution that would safe-guard the high-traffic intersections prior to storms. 

 

     Tom Zeuli stated that the chemical solution with this equipment was a different process that could be applied before the snowstorms, and it would also make snow and ice removal easier.  This could help provide safer roads and could eliminate some call outs and overtime hours for plowing.  It was explained that the two-year old equipment, with two extra storage tanks, could be purchased for $3,200.00; another quote for new equipment was in the amount of $7,077, and did not include any storage tanks.   It was explained that money was available in the 2008 Public Works Department budget.   MOTION by O’Malley, second by Wyland to approve the purchase of an All Season Sprayer and two storage tanks from Apple Canyon Lake, IL at a cost of $3,200 (funded by the 2008 Public Works Department budget).  Morrissette questioned whether the funds were on hand to purchase new equipment, instead of used.  It was noted that $7,000 was not available.  All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

 

     Consider retaining the stop sign on westbound Crest View Drive at Heggen Street, and painting a stopping block:  MOTION by Wyland, second by O’Malley to retain the stop sign on westbound Crest View Drive at Heggen Street and to paint the stopping block.  It was noted that after the Crest View Drive mill and overlay project, the stopping block had not been repainted.  Burchill questioned the need for the stop sign and the current lack of enforcement for drivers that don’t stop.  Wyland responded that the number of accidents was reduced, and the Public Safety Committee would continue to review the intersection.

 

     police Chief Marty Jensen reported that with limited resources, the Department cannot always monitor the intersection if they are responding to other calls.  He noted they are currently concentrating on responding to speeding complaints.  Burchill asked for more details on the number of accidents at the intersection.  It was noted that painting the stop block could not occur until spring.  Burchill commented that the traffic coming from the east is minimal, but the backups in the westbound lane, behind the stop sign, can be quite long.  It was noted that a study is being done to see whether restriping can be done, or if four lanes could be made on the Heggen Street bridge.  Vote taken, Ayes (5); Burchill voted No.  MOTION CARRIED.  

 

     Update on Projects:  Bonestroo Engineer Chuck Schwartz reported that site data has been collected for the proposed Carmichael Road Mill and Overlay Project; estimated costs, visuals, and options will be presented at the next meeting.  Only final pay requests remain for the Crest View Drive Mill and Overlay Project and the Lakefront Park Retaining Wall Project.  Footings and utility work has been occurring at the Hampton Inn project and work on the Comfort Suites project could begin in December.  He also noted that approximately two-thirds of the sanitary sewer has been installed on Heritage Boulevard and water main is also being installed.  O’Malley reported on favorable comments received concerning Lakefront Park; Mayor Knudson agreed and also noted positive comments about Crest View Drive and the triple left hand turn lane.

 

     Review bids and approve issuance of $250,000 General Obligation Promissory Notes for City of Hudson 2009 Capital Outlay – Resolution No. 23-08:  finance Officer Betty Caruso explained the local bids received for the short-term financing, noting rates of 3.52% from Citizens State Bank, 3.9% from Associated Bank, and 4.375% from First National Community Bank. She recommended accepting the bid from Citizens State Bank, and noted the stipulation that the transaction must be closed by December 1st.  MOTION by Morrissette, second by O’Malley to suspend the rules toward adoption of Resolution No. 23-08.  Roll call vote, all ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.  MOTION by Morrissette, second by O’Malley, to adopt the following:

 

RESOLUTION NO. 23-08

$250,000 GENERAL OBLIGATION PROMISSORY NOTES

(CITIZENS STATE BANK)

(Copy on file in Clerk’s office)

 

Ms. Caruso explained that the interest on this issue would amount to $2,957.00.  She also noted that higher interest earnings could not be expected this year.  All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

 

2009 Appropriation Ordinance for Municipal Operations – Ordinance No. 9-08:  administrator Willi reported that the 2009 budget total for operations, including debt service, amounted to $9,416,499 and the tax levy of $6,363,673 would result in a 4.02 mill rate.  Mayor Knudson noted that the closure of TIF District #4 provided the City with a larger tax base and a one-time cash amount of just over $1 million.  He also noted the work to reduce health insurance costs and the City-wide budget savings of over $400,000. 

 

     Mayor Knudson praised the St. Croix Business Park and noted the positive impact and tax breaks from the closure of the TIF District.  He explained his recommendation to take a very conservative budget approach to increase operations but also cut taxes. The mill rate was cut by 5% and all City department budgets were increasing by 4.61%.  Mayor Knudson explained the plans to increase the infrastructure for maintenance of roads to approximately $2 million.  He stressed the importance to maintain the roads in 2009 and during the next two years.

 

     Mayor Knudson explained his suggestions for handling the distribution of Room Tax revenues.  He gave a brief report on the City’s 3% room tax rate established in 1987. If the City increased the room tax rate, a minimum of 70% would have to be spent on tourism promotion and development.  He quoted State room tax laws, definitions of tourism and transient tourists, and the three areas where room tax dollars can be spent: (1) marketing projects, advertising, promotional materials, etc. (2) transient tourist informational services, and (3) a convention center. 

 

     Mayor Knudson reported that the City has not formed a Tourism Commission, but uses the Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau for those services.  He noted approximately $150,000 in room tax revenues last year, and the City spent approximately 56% directly on tourism.  He detailed the other beautification projects and history, culture and arts projects that received funds.  The tourism related subsidies to the Phipps Center, Hockey Association, and the Hot Air Affair were also noted.  The support for the VFW and cemetery was explained.

 

     Mayor Knudson stated his proposal to increase tourism and promotion of the city as a whole by giving 70% of the room tax revenues to the Tourism Bureau, noting that City’s Chamber dues and the annual fireworks display would also come from that amount.  He provided an allocation proposal and noted that the Tourism Bureau would be given a block grant to make the decision about how much money gets transferred to the tourism related subsidies of the Phipps, Hockey Association and Hot Air Affair.  He noted that more funding for tourism related projects would mean less for community subsidies to organizations such as Big Brothers/Big Sisters and Community Action, and he suggested that some be phased out.  A list of sport groups and associations that do not receive funds was noted, as well as other worthy community service groups and non-profits. 

 

     Mayor Knudson reminded that the original reason that room tax was instituted was for the purpose of tourism, development and support, best done through the Tourism Bureau.  He suggested approving the 2009 budget.  It was noted that the actual decision on room tax allocations could occur at a later date, and the room tax funds could be included in the budget as “unallocated” at this time.

 

     MOTION by O’Malley, second by Bernard, to suspend the rules toward adoption of Ordinance No. 9-08.  Roll call vote, Ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.  MOTION by O’Malley, second by Morrissette, to adopt Ordinance 9-08, with the provision that the room tax allocations be determined at a later date.  MOTION AMENDED by Wyland, second by Bernard to further discuss the proposed room tax allocations noted within the 2009 Budget. Ayes (5); O’Malley voted No. MOTION CARRIED.

 

     O’Malley questioned how many of these room tax dollars should be given to a non-governmental organization.  He stated the Council should not shrug off its duties or get rid of its responsibilities.

 

     Burchill stated he had a problem with funding non-tourism issues.  He questioned how only a select few non-profit organizations were chosen to receive funds, and stated he believed it was inappropriate.

 

     Morrissette noted his twelve years of experience in the Tourism business, and stated he agreed with giving the Chamber 70% of the funds.  He also voiced support for $8,000 to the Phipps Center for their many programs, articles, and events that have helped place Hudson on the map.  Morrissette stated that some of the other subsidies do not make sense, as they don’t place heads in beds or bring diners here.  He noted that he believed the Tourism Bureau could be fair in this process, and that the City should continue to support the arts as in the past.

 

     Bernard stated this process was entirely arbitrary, subjective and vulnerable to the whims of the elected leaders.  She supported 70% of funding to the Tourism Bureau, and would like to see them make the bulk of the decisions.  She was not in favor of the Phipps remaining under the City’s support category, and stated that these decisions need to be made more objectively and with set criteria.

 

     Brokaw agreed with Morrissette and Bernard, and was supportive of the Tourism Bureau receiving 70% of the room tax funds.  She noted that she struggled with the support to some of the non-profit groups, while other worthy groups received nothing.

 

     Wyland commented that it was evident Council did not want to make these decisions.  He questioned how the Tourism Bureau would be proceeding and suggested asking them to present a plan.  He offered his support for the Phipps and the cemetery and had a concern for lowering their funding.  

 

     O’Malley noted concern for oversight and maintaining control, with a full report from the Tourism Bureau.  Mayor Knudson stated that the City has had flexibility in these allocations, but if the room tax rate increased, the Phipps would not qualify or meet the definition of the law for tourism promotion and development. 

 

     Kim Heinemann stated that she was encouraged by the apparent support for 70% of the room tax to the Tourism Bureau.  She noted that tourism was the number three economic driver within the State, and in order to encourage additional tourism a marketing plan must be in place.  The Tourism Bureau has a plan in place to spend the 40%, or approximately $60,000, but usually experiences a deficit of approximately $14,000.  She stated their books were public record and the funds were used for promoting events and programs, advertising, mailings, website, staffing, etc.  She noted that plans, policies and review procedures would need to be in place for those making requests.   The Tourism Board would have a formal process and they would report back to the City.

 

     O’Malley suggested that the Chamber return with a formal presentation at a later date to allow Council to make their decision.  Morrissette questioned the dollar amounts proposed for 2009.  Wyland questioned the 70/30 percentage split.  Burchill again stressed disapproval to fund the non-profits.   O’Malley suggested requesting a presentation from the Tourism Bureau, before they receive an additional $30,000. He noted it was the Council’s duty to review where the money would be allocated.

 

     Mayor Knudson noted the limited pool of money which was available and questioned whether Council wished to make those decisions this evening.  Wyland agreed that he would like to see a presentation from the Tourism Bureau in order to make a better decision.   Administrator Willi noted the options of adopting the 2009 budget this evening, with the room tax funds as “unallocated” or adopting the budget as is, with budget amendments to be made at a later date.  Ms. Heinemann suggested moving forward.

 

     Mayor Knudson restated that the motion on the table was to adopt the 2009 Budget, with room tax funds to be “unallocated” and determined at a later date.      

ORDINANCE NO. 9-08

2009 APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE

(Copy on file in Clerk’s office)

 

vote taken:  Ayes (4); Burchill and Bernard voted No. MOTION CARRIED.

 

Authorization to pre-pay 2006 G.O. Promissory Notes with Associated Bank:  betty Caruso explained that with the adoption of the 2009 budget, the debt service reflected the payoff of the 2006 G.O. notes used for purchase of Park land.  She noted her worksheet which indicated the distribution of the TID funds to the other taxing entities.  She explained that $525,000 remained in a 2006 debt issue at 4.75% and suggested prepaying the GO notes at this time.  By using $12,468.75 from debt levy and excess debt funds of $51,436, a balance of $465,251.50 would remain to be prepaid.  Using the City’s share of the TID funds of $1.1 million, $639,000 would remain for future debt reduction or capital purchases.

 

MOTION by O’Malley, second by Burchill, to authorize the prepayment of $529,156.25 of 2006 GO Promissory Notes, funded by excess debt levy, excess debt funds, and TID funds, as described above.  All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

 

COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE MAYOR:  mayor Knudson reported that two Police squad cars have received the new computer equipment and all ten squads should be equipped by the end of December.  He noted the better efficiency and increase in productivity that the system will provide.  Mayor Knudson also called attention to a recent test of the emergency generator.  When it was connected to City Hall, it ran very well and had a large capacity to provide sufficient electricity to the building.

 

Two-hour free parking and use of “courtesy” tickets in downtown area        during the holiday season:  Mayor Knudson stated that two-hour free parking and use of courtesy tickets would begin the day after Thanksgiving.  He encouraged people to do their holiday shopping in Hudson and support the local businesses.

 

Recognition of Trauma Advisory Council award to St. Croix E.M.S.:  Mayor Knudson announced that St. Croix Emergency Medical Services recently received the Outstanding EMS Service award from the West Central Regional Trauma Advisory Council in recognition of their valuable contributions to the trauma system and their leadership role in patient care and other services.  He gave them recognition and stated the City was very proud of their accomplishments.

 

Proclamation re: Willis Miller Day for November 28, 2008:  Mayor Knudson read the proclamation declaring Friday, November 30, 2008 as Willis Miller Day in Hudson.  He stated that the memorial service would be at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, November 30th, at the O’Connell Family Funeral home, with visitation from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.  He suggested that Council consider naming a Hudson History Day in honor of Willis, as a reminder of our local history and its importance.  He recommended making the fourth Friday in November each year as Hudson History Day, and encouraged people to celebrate the life of Willis Miller at the service on the 30th of November.

 

COMMUNICATIONS AND ITEMS FOR FUTURE AGENDAS:  Wyland suggested consideration of adding restrictions to the temporary wine and beer licenses.  This matter was referred to the Finance Committee.  O’Malley wished everyone a Happy Thanksgiving and urged them to drive safely.  Administrator Willi reminded that the next meeting would be on Monday, December 15th and it would be the only Council meeting in December.

 

MOTION by Morrissette, second by O’Malley to adjourn.  All ayes (6).  MOTION CARRIED at 8:58 p.m.

 

Janice M. Doonan, Executive Secretary

 

     I hereby certify that the Executive Secretary 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.

  

     Dean R. Knudson, Mayor