HomeMy Public PortalAbout04/16/2013 CCMMEDINA CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF TUESDAY, APRIL 16, 2013
The City Council of Medina, Minnesota met in regular session on April 16, 2013 at 7:00
p.m. in the City Hall Chambers. Acting Mayor Weir presided.
I. ROLL CALL
Members present: Pederson, Martinson, Anderson, and Weir.
Members absent: Crosby.
Also present: City Attorney Sara Sonsalla, City Engineer Tom Kellogg, Planner Dusty
Finke, Public Works Director Steve Scherer, City Administrator Scott Johnson, Police
Chief Ed Belland, and Recording Secretary Amanda Staple.
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
III. ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA
Weir noted that Sergeant Nelson was unable to attend the meeting tonight due to illness
and requested a motion to table that action until the May 7, 2013 Council meeting.
Moved by Pederson, seconded by Martinson, to table the resolution recognizing
Sergeant Nelson until the May 7, 2013 Council meeting and approve the agenda as
amended. Motion passed unanimously.
IV. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. Approval of the April 2, 2013 Regular City Council Meeting Minutes
It was noted on page three, line one, it should state, "Jaeb stated that the color of the
material is royal blue to match the logo..." On page
three, line three, it should state, "...removed a the week after the closing of the season."
On page four, line 38, it should state, "He advised that thfeegh Resolution 2012-92 the
preliminary plat approval for the Fields of Medina West and noted that a condition that
required disclosure of the park as potential water tower site." On page nine, line 21, it
should state, "...Weir provided additional input noting that Crosby felt strongly that
Medina should follow the integrity of the process and of between the City and LMCC to
withdraw from the JPA." On page ten, line 31, it should state, public policy pinning
planning began..." On page 14, line two, it should state, "...direction should be given to
those who inquire to contact #pelf Assistant Fire Chief Wolfe." On page 14, line 15, it
should state, "...the NEMO training, which was not as well attended, but a lot was
learned. She stated the planning and public work department presented their
considerable achievements towards improving water quality." On page 11, line eight, it
should state, "...information, including reliability statistics."
Moved by Pederson, seconded by Anderson, to approve the April 2, 2013 regular City
Council meeting minutes as amended. Motion passed unanimously.
B. Approval of the April 10, 2013 9:30 Special City Council Meeting Minutes
Moved by Pederson, seconded by Martinson, to approve the April 10, 2013 9:30 a.m.
special City Council meeting minutes as presented. Motion passed unanimously.
Medina City Council Meeting Minutes 1
April 16, 2013
C. Approval of the April 10, 2013 5:45 p.m. special City Council Meeting
Minutes
Moved by Anderson, seconded by Martinson, to approve the April 2, 2013 5:45 p.m.
special City Council meeting minutes as presented. Motion passed unanimously.
D. Approval of the April 10, 2013 6:30 p.m. Special City Council Meeting
Minutes
Moved by Pederson, seconded by Anderson, to approve the April 10, 2013 6:30 p.m.
special City Council meeting minutes as presented. Motion passed unanimously.
V. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Approve Temporary On -Sale Liquor License to Wildlife Rehabilitation
Center at 3000 Hamel Road on August 10, 2013
B. Approve 2013 Contract with the Loretto Volunteer Fire Department
C. Resolution No. 2013-22 Approving Variances for Woodridge Church
Related to Future Expansion Located at 1500 County Road 24
D. Approve "Agency" Agreement for Use of Outdoor Firing Range with the
City of Corcoran
E. Approve Wetland Delineation for the Reserve of Medina Residential
Development
Moved by Martinson, seconded by Pederson, to approve the consent agenda. Motion
passed unanimously.
VI. COMMENTS
A. Comments from Citizens on Items not on the Agenda
There were none.
B. Park Commission
Scherer noted that the Park Commission will meet the following night to discuss the Trail
Master Plan.
C. Planning Commission
Finke advised that the Planning Commission met the previous week to hear three
requests; a request from the Reserve of Medina, which will be reviewed by the Council
in May, a rural lot split, which was tabled pending additional information, and a wide-
ranging ordinance, which was also tabled for additional research.
VI. OLD BUSINESS
A. Ordinance No. 546 An Ordinance Adopting and Amending the Cable
Television Franchise Granted by the Lake Minnetonka Communications
Commission (LMCC)
Johnson reported that this item had been tabled at the April 2nd meeting with direction to
meet with representatives from the LMCC. He stated that at the end of the meeting it
was staffs' understanding that the city of Medina would have the opportunity to leave the
LMCC at the end of 2013. He stated that he received a letter from the LMCC attorney
today and distributed that to the Council.
Medina City Council Meeting Minutes 2
April 16, 2013
Brian Grogan, attorney representing the City on the Cable Communication Ordinances.
He confirmed that the updated version of Ordinance 9A was distributed to the Council
tonight. He briefly reviewed the information presented at the April 2nd Council meeting
noting that ultimately the actions had been tabled and staff directed to attend a meeting
with representatives from the LMCC. He reported that meeting took place on April 12th
to discuss the possibility of Medina withdrawing from the JPA and it was the
understanding of staff that could occur; he noted that no attorneys attended that
meeting. He stated that the key issue is that the current Franchise Agreement with the
LMCC expires at the end of 2013, mentioning October 15th as the date necessary to
provide notification of withdrawal. He stated because the City has agreed to continue
giving its franchise and PEG fees to the LMCC through the end of 2013 there would be
no liability issues. He stated that most of the arguments made in the letter, which was
drafted by the legal counsel of the LMCC, are made moot because of the position of the
City. He noted that the Mediacom Agreement would not become effective until the
Franchise Agreement expires or the City withdraws from the LMCC. He confirmed that
the City would draft the letter of withdrawal in the next few weeks to ensure that the
notification is given much earlier than the October 15th deadline. He did not believe
there was anything that would prevent the City from taking action tonight. He read the
State statute aloud that was referenced in the letter from the LMCC and confirmed that
the action proposed will not interfere with that statute. He recommended that the
Council take action on the proposed items in the order provided.
Martinson questioned if Mediacom would begin the build out this summer as previously
discussed even though the City will not be able to make the agreement effective until the
JPA with the LMCC expires at the end of 2013.
Grogan stated that he spoke with Mediacom prior to attending the meeting tonight and
Mediacom supports the Council taking action tonight. He explained that Mediacom feels
that this action will provide the commitment of the City and will then voluntarily begin the
build out. He clarified that until the document is signed he does not have the statement
in writing.
Anderson questioned if proceeding with the build out, even though voluntary, would
interfere with the LMCC contract.
Grogan explained that Mediacom has the right to build out voluntarily and confirmed that
would not interfere with the LMCC. He noted that the other terms in the Mediacom
Agreement will not become active until the documents are effective.
Moved by Martinson, seconded by Anderson, to approve Ordinance No. 546 An
Ordinance Adopting and Amending the Cable Television Franchise Granted by the Lake
Minnetonka Communications Commission (LMCC). Motion passed unanimously.
1. Resolution No. 2013-24 Authorizing Publication of the Ordinance by
Title and Summary
Moved by Anderson, seconded by Pederson, to approve Resolution No. 2013-24
authorizing publication of the Ordinance by title and summary. Motion passed
unanimously.
Medina City Council Meeting Minutes 3
April 16, 2013
B. Ordinance 547 An Ordinance Granting a Franchise to Mediacom Minnesota
LLC to Construct, Operate, and Maintain a Cable System in the City of
Medina
Moved by Anderson, seconded by Pederson, to approve Ordinance No. 547 An
Ordinance Granting a Franchise to Mediacom Minnesota LLC to Construct, Operate,
and Maintain a Cable System in the City of Medina. Motion passed unanimously.
Johnson stated that Judy Mallet was unable to attend the meeting tonight as she was
out of the state and read aloud a letter that she provided to the Council.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
A. City Council Approval of Bid Results for 600 Clydesdale Trail
Johnson stated that the City received very good bids on the project. He stated that
alternates had been proposed including the sealing of the concrete floors and
reconstruction of the exterior canopy entry. He stated that if those items were added
into the project the funding would need to come from reserves as the project budget is at
the maximum.
Pederson stated that he thought the alternates would be a good idea but recognized that
the project would then be over the budgeted amount.
Martinson questioned the additional cost for these two items.
Johnson reported that the two items would add an additional $50,000 that would be
funded through the reserves.
Weir believed that these items would be important and noted that it would be cheaper to
complete the items now rather than bringing a contractor in later and causing additional
interruption and cost.
Martinson confirmed that this action would not mean that the City would be over budget
at the end of the year.
Scherer advised that staff was able to secure the generator, which should provide some
savings on the soft cost budget. He stated that while that is not a guarantee it could
provide a savings of approximately $40,000.
Moved by Martinson, seconded by Anderson, to approve expenditure to seal the
concrete floors and reconstruction of the exterior canopy entry in the amount of $50, 000.
Motion passed unanimously.
1. Accept Bid Alternates No. 1 $130,518 and No. 3 $6,848 for a Total of
$137,366 for a Total Construction Budget of $2,649,269
Moved by Pederson, seconded by Anderson, to accept bid alternates No. 1 $130,518
and No. 3 $6,848 for a total $137,366 for a total construction budget of $2,649,269.
Motion passed unanimously.
2. Approve the Contracts for the Low Bidders of Bid Categories 3A, 7A,
9A, 9B, 13A, 22A, 23B and 26A Along with Low Bidders of Quote
Medina City Council Meeting Minutes 4
April 16, 2013
Categories 1A, 1B, 2A, 2B, 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B, 6C, 7B, 8A, 8B, 8C, 9C, 9D,
9E, 21A, 31A, 32A, 32B, 32C and 32D, per the Recommendation
Summary from RJM Construction dated April 10, 2013, with the
Understanding that the Original Low Bids for Bid Categories 9A and
9B have been Rejected and that the Award is being Made to the
Second Low Bidder in each Category
Moved by Anderson, seconded by Pederson, to Approve the contracts for the low
bidders of Bid Categories 3A, 7A, 9A, 98, 13A, 22A, 238 and 26A along with low bidders
of Quote Categories 1A, 18, 2A, 28, 5A, 58, 6A, 6B, 6C, 78, 8A, 88, 8C, 9C, 9D, 9E,
21A, 31A, 32A, 328, 32C and 32D, per the recommendation summary from RJM
Construction dated April 10, 2013, with the understanding that the original low bids for
Bid Categories 9A and 9B have been rejected and that the award is being made to the
second low bidder in each category. Motion passed unanimously.
3. Reassign all of the Awarded Contracts for the Public Bid Categories
and all Received Quotes for Work to RJM Construction, Pursuant to
this Reassignment, RJM Construction will enter into a Contractual
Agreement with each of the Approved Contractors, Resulting in the
City having no Direct Contractual Obligation with these Reassigned
Awards. Subsequently the City will have only one Contract for the
Construction of the Entire Project, Executed Solely with RJM
Construction for a Total Contract Amount of $2,649,269
Moved by Martinson, seconded by Pederson, to reassign all of the awarded contracts for
the public bid categories and all received quotes for work to RJM Construction.
Pursuant to this reassignment, RJM Construction will enter into a contractual agreement
with each of the approved contractors, resulting in the City having no direct contractual
obligation with these reassigned awards. Subsequently, the City will have only one
contract for the construction of the entire project, executed solely with RJM Construction
for a total contract amount of $2,649,269. Motion passed unanimously.
B. Road Project Discussion - Chippewa Road West; Willow Drive, South of
County Road 24; Tuckborough Farms Road
Scherer noted that there had been a recent discussion regarding the schedule for road
improvements in the City. He discussed the opposition that had come forward regarding
the reconstruction of Chippewa and believed that a reclaim and pave could provide a
long-term solution for that roadway. He reviewed the proposed cost estimates for the
improvements and noted that the City would fund those improvements at a rate of 80
percent, with the remaining 20 percent being assessed to residents along the roadway.
He stated that should these roadway improvements continue forward, then the projects
would begin next year, he believed that the culverts should also be installed this year to
allow them to settle. He reviewed the recent condition and history of Willow Drive and
noted that at this time staff would recommend an overlay for that roadway which would
add another seven to ten years to the life of the roadway. He stated that in the future
this roadway could be reviewed to possibly become an MSA roadway, which could
assist in the ultimate reconstruction of the road.
Kellogg noted that the cost would be increased if transferred to an MSA roadway, as the
road would then need to be built to the design standards. He confirmed that the State
Aid funds could assist in the cost to reconstruct the road to the correct design standards.
Medina City Council Meeting Minutes 5
April 16, 2013
Scherer stated that he would like to see the overlay on Willow done this year, but noted
that he would need direction from the Council due to the public notice that would be
required.
Pederson questioned if culverts for Willow Drive would need to be replaced along with
that project.
Scherer stated that there could possibly be a culvert that needs replacement, but
advised of the recent activity. He confirmed that he would recommend moving forward
with this project this year ahead of Chippewa. He stated that he would also like to do the
culvert work in Tuckborough this year to prepare for paving the next year.
Johnson confirmed that Scherer would be proposing to do the Willow and Tuckborough
culvert work this year. Chippewa road work and the remainder of the Tuckborough
project will be completed in 2014.
Scherer provided information on the condition and history of the Tuckborough area. He
recommended to simply add blacktop to the existing surface and would not mill the
street beforehand. He stated that this roadway would be split equally between the City
and assessment to the residents.
Martinson questioned which roadway is in the worst condition.
Scherer stated that aesthetically Chippewa is but noted that under the road it is in better
condition. He stated that Loretto is also paving on Chippewa and he would like to
complete that project this year along with the trail and the work on the Tuckborough
culverts. He confirmed that the culvert replacement along Chippewa would also be done
this year in order to let them settle before paving. He confirmed that the City would still
patch Chippewa to assist until the work is completed in 2014. He stated that he would
like to send a letter out to residents to gauge their input.
Weir confirmed that staff should proceed with the public notice procedures for the
projects proposed in 2013, the Willow project and the culvert work for Tuckborough and
Chippewa.
C. Willowbrook Improvement Project — Accept Feasibility Report and Call for
Public Hearing/Assessment Hearing
Scherer moved onto Willowbrook noting that this work would be similar to what is
proposed for Tuckborough. He stated that the cities of Medina and Orono will attempt to
work together to minimize the truck exposure, as garbage haulers had caused damage
in the past. He provided additional information on the condition of the roadway, noting
that the City portion and assessment portion will be split equally between residents.
Moved by Pederson, seconded by Martinson, to accept the Feasibility Report as
prepared by staff. Motion passed unanimously.
Moved by Anderson, seconded by Pederson, to call for a Public Improvement
Hearing/Assessment Hearing at the May 21, 2013, City Council Meeting. Motion
passed unanimously.
D. Fields of Medina
Medina City Council Meeting Minutes 6
April 16, 2013
Finke presented the request for the Final Plat for the Fields of Medina West project,
noting that the Preliminary Plat was approved by the Council on December 18, 2012.
He advised that the Final Plat would include 34 of the 64 lots and provided additional
information. He advised that the hearing in regard to storm sewer is scheduled to take
place in May. He stated that staff determined that the Final Plat is consistent with the
Preliminary Plat and highlighted conditions of note and recommended approval.
1. Resolution No. 2013-23 Approving the Final Plat of the Fields of Medina
West
Moved by Pederson, seconded by Anderson, to adopt Resolution No. 2013-23 granting
final plat approval for Fields of Medina West. Motion passed unanimously.
2. Development Agreement by and Between the city of Medina and
Mattamy
Moved by Pederson, seconded by Anderson, to approve the Development Agreement
by and between the City of Medina and Mattamy (Minneapolis) Partnership. Motion
passed unanimously.
E. Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) — Annual Public Hearing
Scherer noted that the Wellhead Protection Plan, Part II, was reviewed by the Council
about one month ago and the document was out for comment. He stated that after the
approval of the Council the document will be sent to the Health Department. He
reviewed the three parts of the Plan, the objectives of the Plan, and the plan of action
categories. He explained that these items would be used to report the drinking water
information to the Health Department. He identified the City wells and the areas of
study.
Weir opened the public hearing at 8:17 p.m.
No comments made.
Weir closed the public hearing at 8:18 p.m.
Scherer thanked John Frietag from the Health Department for his assistance with this
matter.
John Frietag, Minnesota Department of Health, commended Linda Lane for the work she
did alongside Steve Scherer.
F. Wellhead Protection Plan Part II — Public Hearing
Scherer noted that this report and public meeting is required on an annual basis as a
part of the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). He briefly reviewed the
projects that were completed during 2012 and also advised of the projects that will take
place in 2013 and beyond. He reviewed the minimum control measures, which include
pollution prevention and housekeeping, public education and outreach, and public
participation. He also reviewed the partners the City works with on these matters.
Weir opened the public hearing at 8:28 p.m.
No comments made.
Medina City Council Meeting Minutes 7
April 16, 2013
Weir closed the public hearing at 8:28 p.m.
X. CITY ADMINISTRATOR REPORT
A. Hamel Fire Department Response Letter
Johnson reviewed the direction of the Council that occurred at the April 2nd Council
meeting for Johnson to send a letter to the Hamel Fire Department and advised that the
response letter from the Fire Chief was included in the Council packet.
Weir stated that she and Anderson attended a meeting the previous day and noted that
while she had believed that this would be a relatively simple process, she learned that
this is actually quite complex. She stated that there are consultants coming to work on
this matter at the end of April but advised that additional direction would need to come
from the City in regard to the merging of the Hamel and Loretto Fire Departments.
Belland explained that Medina is at a turning point and noted that the City Council would
need to provide direction for the future. He advised that Corcoran has withdrawn from
the contract, which then leaves Medina as the only customer of the Hamel Fire
Department. He explained that the City can now provide additional input as to the
desired outcome. He stated that there is the possibility to merge the Loretto and Hamel
Fire Departments that could be done quickly, with Loretto then in essence taking over
the Hamel Fire Department. He stated that if that is the direction, the consultants can
assist in that process and it may require the Hamel contract to be withdrawn and the City
to then contract with Loretto for services. He stated that there have been liability issues
in the past with the Hamel Fire Department and advised that in the past there was no
flexibility in the contract, which meant that if the services were not on par the only option
would be to terminate the contract. He stated that the other option would be to work with
the Hamel Fire Department to determine what could be done if the City is not satisfied
with the services. He stated that with Corcoran withdrawing from the contract, there is a
funding issue as well. He stated that the two options would be to move forward with the
merger and contract with Loretto or to work with Hamel to determine a course of
accountability.
Martinson confirmed that the second option could include absorbing some of the cost
associated with Corcoran leaving. She asked for input of the Fire Chiefs on which
direction they would like to move.
Chief Leuer stated that he was not prepared to make that statement following the
meeting.
Weir summarized some of the items that were discussed at the meeting with the Fire
Departments.
Acting Hamel Fire Chief Wolfe stated that this is new territory for everyone involved and
stated that he would first like to hear the input of the Council.
Anderson questioned the reservations of Acting Chief Wolfe towards the merger.
Acting Chief Wolfe stated that there is a difference between a merger and an acquisition.
He stated that it was the position of the Hamel Fire Department that a merger between
the two organizations would occur and stated that his department is behind the idea of
Medina City Council Meeting Minutes 8
April 16, 2013
providing joint services to the City. He stated that he would like to move forward with the
original proposal and development of measures of accountability. He stated that he only
speaks for himself as the members own the department but stated that he would be
against the idea of Loretto acquiring the Hamel department. He believed that the
consultants should do the work they were hired to do and focus on that task, rather than
distributing information that goes in contradicting directions as they have been. He
believed that he could work with the City, Belland, and Chief Leuer to find a solution and
path to move forward. He believed that certain aspects could be completed within six
months and also believed that the complete merge could take place within approximately
one year. He stated that he believed that the City and the Hamel Fire Department have
a good relationship and would like to continue to work to improve things and move
forward.
Martinson stated that the Council is sympathetic to the position that the Hamel Fire
Department is in but wanted to ensure that the City will be provided with services without
interruption. She stated that if Hamel is not agreeable with the timeline identified by the
consultant, she would like to see another timeline identified that he believed could be
followed. She stated that Medina may have to make up for the shortfall caused by
Corcoran withdrawing. Belland noted that he recently took over the leadership of the
Department and advised of the improvements that have been made since that time. He
stated that Hamel has acknowledged the new leadership and will continue to work to
meet the desire of the City. Chief Leuer stated that he would like to take two weeks to
allow him and Chief Wolfe to meet and present a plan of action for moving forward. He
stated that there are too many issues out there right now and he would like to get a
handle on things and develop a sound plan for moving forward, rather than attempting to
move forward in multiple directions. He stated that he is confident that he could exceed
the expectations of the City.
Pederson thanked both Chiefs for the amount of work that they have done and also
believed that the timeline identified would be too tight. He stated that he has not heard
the cost of the new fire station and the impact that would have on Medina taxpayers and
believed that this timeline is putting too much pressure on the departments and is
causing them to go in a direction they do not wish to go. He believed that the October
deadline should be extended to give everyone some additional time. He believed that
the City should be reasonable when dealing with public safety. He suggested allowing
one year from the time the consultant comes back to make a recommendation. He also
noted that he had spoken with Belland in regard to him becoming a Public Safety
Director to work with Hamel. He stated that the costs are not known for the merger
without knowing the cost for the new fire station. He also questioned if Corcoran would
be willing to come back to the Hamel Fire Department with all the recent strides they
have made.
Weir stated that the understanding was that there would be dissolution of the Hamel
Department with Loretto then coming in, but recognized that Hamel has made
improvements.
Johnson stated that they could allow the Chiefs to bring back a recommendation to the
Council at the May 7th meeting.
Chief Leuer stated that would not be enough time. He explained that his department is
membership driven and noted that he would need to bring the position of the City back to
Medina City Council Meeting Minutes 9
April 16, 2013
his department in order to gain their input. He stated that the consultant will come back
but advised that they do not have direction.
Belland stated that ultimately the acquisition comes up because Medina is in the position
where they could terminate the contract with Hamel and force the issue because the
merger process has been discussed for the past eight years. He explained that an
acquisition is a tool that could be used to quickly complete the process that has been a
struggle.
Johnson stated that the Council is missing key points of information from the Fire
Departments, including the cost for the new Loretto building and the percentage of
equipment that is owned by Medina within the Hamel Fire Department.
Weir briefly recessed the meeting at 8:59 p.m.
Weir reconvened the meeting at 9:04 p.m.
Weir explained that it is very difficult to make any decisions when there are key pieces of
information that are still unknown. She explained that the method of dissolving and
acquiring would be difficult to impose on Hamel since they are starting to make positive
improvements.
Martinson stated that she would like to see complete plans for the options, the
acquisition and the merger, in order to make a rational decision. She believed that
process alone would take up to six months. She stated that the other option would be
for the City to simply make a decision without all the necessary information and jump in.
She stated that her position on a merger would be that both departments are equal and
work together with the same policies and procedures.
Belland stated that was one of the original thoughts with the exception that it would be
one entity managed under one management team, which would be the complete merge
of the two companies into one. He explained that in the past eight years nothing had
been done to meet that goal.
Anderson stated that he believed a great deal had been done during that time and
recognized the high level of frustration from the Loretto Fire Department.
Belland stated that the Hamel Fire Department is already under stress and did not
believe that they had the resources to move any faster as Martinson had suggested. He
recognized that these are all volunteers who work with the Fire Department on a part
time basis and do not have 40 hours a week to devote to this.
Chief Leuer stated that they were clearly following the plan from December 2011. He
stated that he covers four other cities and the next step was to follow these four steps,
noting that those cities do not support funding of this merger. He stated that the plan
has changed because Corcoran withdrew and because the position of Medina is
unknown. He stated that they were following a plan but noted that plan has changed.
He asked that the Council provide direction and noted that they will make the decision
after that. He advised that there were three consolidation options that they had been
working towards, noting that they had been following the path of a functional
consolidation. He likened it to dating but never getting married.
Medina City Council Meeting Minutes 10
April 16, 2013
Weir asked for Belland's input regarding functional consolidation.
Belland clarified that they would continue to be two organizations but would operate the
same.
Acting Chief Wolfe addressed the issue of accountability and while he totally agrees that
a plan is needed to move forward, he did not believe that the blame fell solely on the
Hamel Fire Department. He stated that he is the Assistant Chief for the next three years
and believed that they could continue to move forward with the merger that was
originally planned for the departments.
Mario Fabrizio stated that while history is an important indicator, it needs to be let go
before they can move forward. He agreed that the blame is shared between all three
organizations. He asked what the expectations are for the City to move forward and
noted that they are not asking the City to design the solution as the Fire Chiefs are the
professionals. He asked that the Council determine their desire, whether that is to have
one agency for fire protection, or whatever their ultimate outcome is. He stated that
these are two volunteer organizations in which the people wake up early to provide
public safety services to the City. He asked that the City be practical as the cost that
Medina would incur for covering the Corcoran portion of the contract would be less than
two thirds of the cost the City will spend to paint the entrance and seal the floors on their
public works building. He asked that the City put these costs into perspective when
dealing with public safety. He recognized that the consultant was sent in a totally
different direction when they were here in March but noted that those directions did not
come from either Fire Department.
Belland noted that the direction came from the meeting that took place with the
consultant when Corcoran withdrew.
Acting Chief Wolfe stated that the City jumped the gun on that direction and therefore
the waters have been murky. He stated that while Medina is a stakeholder, they did not
hire the consultant and should not have given that direction.
Weir stated that in the past there was an agreement that was being worked towards for a
functional administrative merger prior to Corcoran withdrawing. She questioned if that
would be a reasonable position to fall back on for the next year, given that Hamel is
operating proficiently.
Belland stated that process could be followed but believed that it would take about three
years.
Acting Chief Wolfe stated that the training program could be consolidated in a short
period of time, as well as the administrative and operational aspects. He stated that
while he was unsure of the remaining aspects of the merger that would need to be
completed, he believed that they could work towards that goal productively in a
reasonable amount of time.
Pederson believed that additional time should be given and noted that direction from the
Council would need to be given. He believed that the audit and the cost for the new
Loretto station would be factors. He stated that he would like to continue to work
Medina City Council Meeting Minutes 11
April 16, 2013
towards the merger and give them the additional time because they are volunteers and
still need to have time for their families.
Belland stated that they need the direction from the Council.
Martinson questioned if one area of the merger would be financial.
Chief Leuer noted that would be a full merger.
Acting Chief Wolfe stated that ultimately he would like to see that happen in the long run.
He stated that ultimately Medina does not own the Hamel Fire Station.
Mario Fabrizio stated the real question is whether the two organizations act like one or
be one. He stated that if the outcome is simply for the two departments to act like one
that could occur more rapidly. He stated that ultimately it becomes an issue of
manpower and the consideration of the pride of ownership that the fire fighters have in
their own department. He stated that while the Council could force the action in a
draconian manner, they could lose the firefighters in the process. He explained that the
two organizations could act like one organization quicker than they could physically
become one.
Weir stated that she would support the two departments acting like one and working
towards the original path. She stated that she has seen great strides recently from the
Hamel Fire Department. She stated that she is worried about the possibility that this
could take five years.
Belland recognized that those are the right questions, including the resources and time
involved.
Pederson agreed with the comments made by Weir but stated that he would like to see
communication with Corcoran to determine whether there is interest in coming back. He
was unsure if Hamel could make it without the financial support of Corcoran and noted
that if they could not survive that may force the timeline.
Martinson confirmed that Corcoran will withdraw officially from Hamel on May 19th and is
signing their contract with Loretto next week.
Acting Chief Wolfe stated that Medina is not on the hook for the portion that was funded
by Corcoran in 2013 and assured the Council that they would be able to cover that
shortage themselves. He also believed that budgeting concerns could be addressed in
the budget process.
Anderson stated that Medina is a customer that has two choices for fire service and
believed that it is extremely dangerous for the City to focus solely on Hamel and not on
the input of Loretto. He believed that the needs of both vendors needs to be taken into
account as he did not believe that Loretto was being allowed the same input as Hamel.
Acting Chief Wolfe stated that Medina staff has not identified a breach in the contract
and written notice would be required.
Medina City Council Meeting Minutes 12
April 16, 2013
Johnson stated that a number of concerns have been brought forward to the previous
Fire Chief but confirmed that it was not done in writing. He confirmed that the contract
expired in 2012 but the City is still operating under that contract for the time being.
Weir confirmed that when a decision is made a new contract would be needed.
Martinson stated that she would like to allow Hamel some time to get things together and
develop a long-term plan for a quick merger that could take place much quicker than
three to five years. She recognized that there will be budget concerns in 2014 and
Medina needs to know within six months how quickly the two organizations could have
an "engagement."
Anderson confirmed that additional time should be given but advised that there would be
reporting issues, as to who will report to whom.
Acting Chief Wolfe stated that he had been told to report to Belland and noted that he
would also not have a problem reporting to Chief Leuer if that would allow additional
time.
Johnson explained that Acting Chief Wolfe reports to Belland and stated that staff needs
direction from the Council on how to move forward.
Weir confirmed the consensus of the Council to allow the departments to move along the
original path towards a functional merger within 12 to 18 months.
Chief Leuer stated that he did not think everyone would still be on board in a year and
advised that he would take this information back to his membership and they would
review the option. He stated that Medina must make a decision and the Loretto Fire
Department will then make a responsive decision.
Anderson questioned if Chief Leuer believed that his membership would be on board for
working towards this goal within one year. He stated that if they would not support that
the City would have to move forward with the shotgun wedding.
Chief Leuer stated that the membership may consider that option but stated that it has
been 14 years and the decision needs to be made to move forward or not. He stated
that the Loretto Fire Department is independent and will make their decision after the
Council makes their decision. He stated that he also works with four other cities and
needs to make them happy as well. He confirmed that the membership was comfortable
with the original path.
Johnson confirmed that the Council consensus of moving towards the functional
administrative merger and speaking with the consultant to determine the timeline, which
would include six month and 12 month assessments.
Anderson stated that the ultimate responsibility of the Council is to the residents of
Medina and wanted to avoid too long of a timeline as that would cause frustration with
the Loretto Fire Department.
Chief Leuer stated that there was a path being followed and that took a drastic turn two
months ago when Corcoran withdrew. He stated that there is a new path now and will
Medina City Council Meeting Minutes 13
April 16, 2013
need to be a new plan as well. He stated that Loretto will continue to work with Hamel
and has had positive experiences recently but wants to ensure that he can hold his
group together as well. He reassured the Council that Loretto would continue to provide
service to the residents of Medina.
Acting Chief Wolfe stated that he is looking forward to rebuilding the relationship with
Loretto so that they could trust that a merger would work in the long-term. He stated that
he would bring this forward at the Hamel Fire Department meeting the following Monday
and was enthusiastic that this could move forward.
Anderson stated that he would like items spelled out clearly.
Johnson noted that he would work to draft a letter that could be sent to the consultant
and each Fire Department.
IX. OLD BUSINESS (Continued)
B. Ordinance No. 547 An Ordinance Granting a Franchise to Mediacom
Minnesota LLC to Construct, Operate, and Maintain a Cable System in the
City of Medina (Continued)
1. Resolution No. 2013-25 Authorizing Publication of the Ordinance by
Title and Summary
Moved by Martinson, seconded by Pederson, to approve Resolution No. 2013-25
authorizing publication of the Ordinance by title and summary. Motion passed
unanimously.
X. CITY ADMINISTRATOR REPORT (Continued)
B. Resolution No. 2013-26 Accepting Resignation of Mayor Thomas M.
Crosby, Jr.
Johnson reported sad news that Mayor Crosby dropped off his letter of resignation to the
City the previous Friday.
Weir recognized the contribution that Crosby has made to the City.
Moved by Anderson, seconded by Martinson, to approve Resolution No. 2013-26
accepting the resignation of Mayor Thomas M. Crosby, Jr. Motion passed
unanimously.
Moved by Anderson, seconded by Pederson, to elevate Elizabeth Weir to the position of
Mayor to fulfill the remainder of term. Motion passed unanimously.
Martinson nominated Anderson for the position of Acting Mayor. The nomination failed
for lack of a second.
Pederson stated that he has a longer tenure with the Council and has more experience
with the City as a former member of the Planning Commission. He stated that although
he would like the position, he would support the consensus of the Council.
Medina City Council Meeting Minutes 14
April 16, 2013
Weir stated that she did invite Kathy Martin to come up to the Council. She stated that
Crosby brought a lot of legal expertise and noted that Martin has a lot of real estate
development knowledge and has no interest other than that of the City. She believed
that Martin would help round out the skills on the Council.
Pederson believed that Martin would be a wonderful addition to the Council and noted
that he has seen her in action on the Planning Commission.
Moved by Pederson, seconded by Martinson, to appoint Kathleen Martin to the City
Council to fill the vacant position for the term to expire in 2014. Motion passed
unanimously.
Weir noted that the decision for Acting Mayor should be left until the full Council meets
with the new addition of Kathleen Martin.
Xl. MAYOR & CITY COUNCIL REPORTS
Weir noted of a Citizens Advisory Committee that is being formed for the Elm Creek and
Pioneer Watersheds and asked if the Parks Commission could take on that task.
Scherer noted that they could discuss that item at their meeting the following night.
Johnson reported that the Annual Spring Clean -Up Day will take place on Saturday, April
27th
Pederson noted that he attended the Uptown Hamel meeting and provided a brief
update on activity.
Anderson noted that he attended the Long Lake Pancake Breakfast the previous
weekend.
Martinson commented on the recent visit to Randy's Environmental Services and noted
that up to 40 percent of the waste is recycled.
Belland asked if the Mayor would be formally recognized. He referenced a previous
reception that was held.
Weir stated that she could speak with the Crosbys prior to that decision being made
because of his health.
XII. APPROVAL TO PAY THE BILLS
Moved by Pederson, seconded by Anderson to approve the bills, EFT 002060E-
002081E for $50,504.53 and order check numbers 039575-039613 for $81, 743.40 and
payroll EFT 504881-504910 for $47,268.02. Motion passed unanimously.
XIII. ADJOURN
Moved by Pederson, seconded by Anderson, to adjourn the meeting at 10:16 p.m.
Motion passed unanimously.
(L t%r
Elizth Weir, Acting Mayor
Medina City Council Meeting Minutes
April 16, 2013
15
Attest:
Scott Johnson, Cit Administrator
Medina City Council Meeting Minutes 16
April 16, 2013
ORDER CHECKS April 3, 2013 - April 16, 2013
039575 BONNIE LAMBERTZ $150.00
039576 PURI, VIKAS $250.00
039577 SPRINT $852.25
039578 ABRAHAM, LORA $150.00
039579 CENTERPOINT ENERGY $2,413.07
039580 RON OR REBECCA FURNIVAL $257.65
039581 CITY OF MAPLE PLAIN $234.14
039582 METROPOLITAN COUNCIL $19,285.20
039583 MN DEPT OF LABOR/INDUSTRY $8,377.04
039584 NAPA $376.42
039585 RYAN COMPANIES $213.83
039586 DIAMOND MOWERS INC $286.49
039587 EARL F ANDERSEN INC $128.31
039588 GOPHER STATE ONE CALL $132.30
039589 HAKANSON ANDERSON $4,628.23
039590 HAMEL LUMBER INC $167.75
039591 HAMEL LIONS CLUB $200.00
039592 HENN COUNTY SHERIFF $169.48
039593 HIGHWAY 55 RENTAL $128.72
039594 INTERSTATE ALL BATTERY $222.25
039595 KERN, DEWENTER & VIERE $6,000.00
039596 KELLY'S WRECKER SERVICE INC $229.79
039597 LEXISNEXIS RISK DATA MGMT $35.50
039598 CITY OF LONG LAKE $6,105.00
039599 MATHESON TRI-GAS INC $103.23
039600 MEDTOX LABS $146.30
039601 METROPOLITAN COUNCIL $17,809.54
039602 MN BUREAU OF CRIMINAL $270.00
039603 MORRIS ELECTRONICS INC., $617.52
039604 OFFICE DEPOT $57.89
039605 ON SITE SANITATION $58.78
039606 PITNEY BOWES $225.50
039607 RANDY MAYER LTD $160.31
039608 SCHARBER & SONS, INC. $556.71
039609 SUN PRESS & NEWSPAPERS $59.95
039610 TALLEN & BAERTSCHI $4,454.00
039611 TIMESAVER OFFSITE $129.00
039612 WACONIA FARM SUPPLY $38.45
039613 WENCK ASSOCIATES, INC $6,062.80
Total Checks $81,743.40
Electronic Payments March 29, 2013 - April 11, 2013
002060E SELECT ACCOUNT $1,749.67
002061E FARMERS STATE BANK OF $35.00
002062E CULLIGAN-METRO $109.12
002063E FRONTIER $53.04
002064E PREMIUM WATERS INC $50.25
002065E WRIGHT HENN COOP ELEC ASSN $2,019.39
002066E XCEL ENERGY $9,535.39
002067E CENTERPOINT ENERGY $2,152.13
002068E XEROX CORPORATION $49.55
002069E PITNEY BOWES POSTAGE BY $1,000.00
002070E MEDIACOM OF MN LLC $55.31
002071E SELECT ACCOUNT $86.50
002072E PIVOTAL PAYMENTS INC $101.62
002073E PAYMENT SERVICE NETWORK INC $213.40
002074E PR PERA $12,433.57
002075E PR FED/FICA $13,668.87
002076E PR MN Deferred Comp $1,000.00
002077E PR STATE OF MINNESOTA $3,079.55
002078E SELECT ACCOUNT $532.00
002079E CITY OF MEDINA $17.00
002080E FARMERS STATE BANK OF $20.00
002081E CIPHER LABORATORIES INC. $2,543.17
Total Checks $50,504.53
Medina City Council Meeting Minutes 17
April 16, 2013
PAYROLL DIRECT DEPOSIT April 10. 2013
504881 ANDERSON, JOHN G. $230.87
504882 BARNHART, ERIN A $1,628.46
504883 BELLAND, EDGAR J. $3,244.79
504884 BOECKER, KEVIN D. $2,478.02
504885 CONVERSE, KEITH A. $1,843.07
504886 CROSBY, THOMAS M. JR. $327.07
504887 DINGMANN, NAN W. $2,294.84
504888 DOMINO, CHARMANE $1,610.41
504889 FINKE, DUSTIN D $2,054.82
504890 GALLUP, JODI M. $1,462.24
504891 GLEASON, JOHN M $1,873.25
504892 GREGORY, THOMAS $1,889.99
504893 HALL, DAVID M $2,610.39
504894 JESSEN, JEREMIAH S. $2,208.99
504895 JOHNSON, SCOTT T $2,088.11
504896 KLAERS, ANNE M. $590.20
504897 KORDIAK, JEFFREY $686.21
504898 LANE, LINDA $1,312.07
504899 LEUER, GREGORY J $1,889.51
504900 MARTINSON, MELISSA $230.87
504901 MCGILL, CHRISTOPHER R. $1,765.15
504902 NELSON, JASON $2,672.21
504903 PEDERSON,JEFF $220.63
504904 PETERSON, DEBRA A. $1,473.09
504905 PORTINEN, TERI $1,302.81
504906 REINKING, DEREK M $1,497.02
504907 SCHERER, STEVEN T. $2,176.47
504908 VIEAU, CECILIA M $1,143.49
504909 VINCK, JOHN J. $2,232.10
504910 WEIR, ELIZABETH V $230.87
Total Payroll Direct Deposit $47,268.02
Medina City Council Meeting Minutes 18
April 16, 2013