HomeMy WebLinkAbout09.18.06 Council Minutes
COUNCIL MINUTES
PRE-MEETING
SEPTEMBER 18, 2006
1. CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Soderberg at 6:30 p.m.
Members Present:
Members Absent:
Also Present:
Soderberg, Fogarty, McKnight, Pritzlaff, Wilson
None
Andrea Poehler, City Attorney; Peter Herlofsky, City
Administrator; Robin Roland, Finance Director; Kevin Carroll,
Community Development Director; Brian Lindquist, Interim
Police Chief; Randy Distad, Parks and Recreation Director; Lee
Mann, Director of Public Works/City Engineer; Lisa Shadick,
Administrative Services Director; Cynthia Muller, Executive
Assistant
2. APPROVE AGENDA
MOTION by McKnight, second by Wilson to approve the Agenda. APIF, MOTION
CARRIED.
3. CITIZEN COMMENTS
4. COUNCIL REVIEW OF AGENDA
Councilmember Wilson asked about an item on the list of bills for the City of Burnsville.
Finance Director Roland replied that was for the 2006 costs in the budget for the DCC.
Mayor Soderberg noted there are two amendments to ordinances regarding swimming
pool fences and the reforestation committee and tree trimming notices. He suggested
moving this to consent. It was agreed to move only the amendment regarding the tree
trimming notices to consent.
5. STAFF COMMENTS
City Administrator Herlofsky noted there are two supplemental items, one is additional
information for the School and Conference for the Fire Department and the other is
information on the mill and overlay project.
Councilmember Pritzlaff asked that the item regarding the mill and overlay project be
moved ahead on the agenda to accommodate the audience. It was agreed to address this
item prior to the public hearings.
Council Minutes (Pre-Meeting)
September 18,2006
Page 2
Community Development Director Carroll asked the Mayor to note there was a public
hearing notice published for the annexations. As the public hearings have been
superseded by the annexation agreement, he asked that it be indicated that a public
hearing for this item will not be held and will be addressed as a regular item on the
agenda.
6. ADJOURN
MOTION by Pritzlaff, second by Fogarty to adjourn at 6:36 p.m. APIF, MOTION
CARRIED.
Respectfully submitted,
~ /r?~~
c;/
Cynthia Muller
Executive Assistant
COUNCIL MINUTES
REGULAR
SEPTEMBER 18, 2006
1. CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Soderberg at 7:00 p.m.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Soderberg led the audience and Council in the Pledge of Allegiance.
3.
ROLL CALL
Members Present:
Members Absent:
Also Present:
Audience:
Soderberg, Fogarty, McKnight, Pritzlaff, Wilson
None
Andrea Poehler, City Attorney; Peter Herlofsky, City
Administrator; Robin Roland, Finance Director; Kevin Carroll,
Community Development Director; Brian Lindquist, Interim
Police Chief; Randy Distad, Parks and Recreation Director; Lee
Mann, Director of Public Works/City Engineer; Lisa Shadick,
Administrative Services Director; Lee Smick, City Planner;
Cynthia Muller, Executive Assistant
Bryce Olson, Don Hunter, Dave Steinke, Doug Bonar, Dave
Graham, Rick Morcomb, Nick & Stacey Schultz, Jon Brimacomb,
Susan Poirot, David Domack, Denise May
4. APPROVE AGENDA
Councilmember Pritzlaff noted the item regarding the mill and overlay will be moved
ahead on the agenda prior to the public hearings.
City Administrator Herlofsky stated there is additional information to item 7c) School
and Conference - Fire Department.
Mayor Soderberg noted there is also a supplemental item for the mill and overlay project.
Item 10e) Text Amendment regarding reforestation committee and tree trimming
notification will be moved to the Consent Agenda.
MOTION by Pritzlaff, second by McKnight to approve the Agenda. APIF, MOTION
CARRIED.
5. ANNOUNCEMENTS
6. CITIZEN COMMENTS
7. CONSENT AGENDA
MOTION by Fogarty, second by Pritzlaffto approve the Consent Agenda as follows:
a) Approved Council Minutes (9/5/06 Regular) (8/31/06 Special)
b) Approved School and Conference - Parks and Recreation
c) Approved School and Conference - Fire Department
Council Minutes (Regular)
September 18, 2006
Page 2
d) Received Information August 2006 Financial Report - Finance
e) Received Information Customer Service Response Report - Administration
f) Adopted RESOLUTION R105-06 Approving 2007 Safe and Sober Grant-
Police Department
g) Approved Wetland Alteration Permit - 195th Street Extension - Engineering
h) Received Information TH3 Cooperative Agreement Application Update -
Engineering
i) Approved License for Utility to Cross Protected Waters - Engineering
j) Approved Assessment Agreement - Ash Street Project - Engineering
k) Approved Bills
1) Adopted ORDINANCE 006-563 Approving Text Amendment Section 10-6-10
regarding Reforestation Committee and Tree Trimming Notification - Community
Development
APIF, MOTION CARRIED.
11. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
c) Mill and Overlay Project - Engineering
City Engineer Mann stated since the last Council Meeting staffhas identified
some additional issues in the specifications for the project that did not include pay
items for some of the items that will be necessary to resolve the project in the way
determined. The option was anticipated to be $610,000. Since staffhas
completed their investigation of the specification and identified the missing pay
items that cost would be revised to $756,000. Staff presented a spreadsheet
showing the differences in costs. The most significant item had to do with the
removal of soils in order to replace the Class 5. There was a pay item for the
Class 5 to be placed but there was no pay item for the soils to be removed. This
amounted to $83,200.
Councilmember Wilson noted some of the options mentioned flyash and asked if
it was a new program or experimental. He was concerned with not knowing
much about this product. Councilmember McKnight had the same questions and
also asked about an item on the spreadsheet shown as R&R 6" concrete driveway.
City Engineer Mann replied that concerned the driveways discussed at the last
Council meeting that had a 4" lip at the curb rather than having a smooth curb
transition. The cost to fix this issue is $13,051.
Regarding the flyash, stafflooked at an option that would be closer to the amount
Council approved two weeks ago. Flyash allows a soil treatment that has been
allowed in other cities. Mr. Jim Fryktal, Bonestroo Engineering, explained flyash.
It has been used in Waseca and Cottage Grove. A machine blends the existing
soils with flyash and water. It stabilizes the soil similar to Class 5. Waseca used
it 7 years ago and the streets are holding up well. It is a cost effective alternative
to removing the soils and replacing Class 5. It does not stop water from going
through. It is mixed with the existing soil and a specific amount of water. This
cannot be done if it is raining. You can drive on it that day and pave on it in a
couple days. It is done in 500 ft. sections from curb to curb. Many states
Council Minutes (Regular)
September 18,2006
Page 3
experimented with this 7-10 years ago. Mayor Soderberg noted there is a
significant cost savings using flyash so why wouldn't it be used all the time. Mr.
Fryktal stated it is used in reconstruction projects. With new construction you do
not have to take soils out and bring Class 5 in. It is already down at the sub grade
elevation and Class 5 can be hauled in.
Councilmember Pritzlaff stated if there is a crack in the asphalt and the water hits
the flyash base, does it stop the water from going through where it could freeze
and break up the road. Mr. Fryktal replied it should not go through. In Waseca
the roads are not cracking after 7 years. The flyash is mixed 6" deep with the
existing soil. Councilmember Pritzlaff noted the milling machine was taking off
4" today and they were leaving good compacted soil. He asked why loosen the
top 6" and not just pave over it. The roads in this area lasted 35 years. Ifwe take
off the 4" and put the asphalt over the soils left and get 10-15 years more before
doing a total reconstruct would we be further ahead. Mr.Fryktal stated the
contractor dug 20 plus test holes throughout the site and they found there is
minimal Class 5 under the existing pavement. There are veins of clay on top and
sand and rock. By blending this together the roads would last longer.
Councilmember Pritzlaff asked who generated the test holes and when were they
done. The contractor dug the test holes last week. Councilmember Pritzlaff was
curious that was done now this far into the project. That is what the asphalt was
sitting on for 35 years. Why not just leave the solid base down that has been
packed all these years and put down 4" of asphalt and not expect 10-15 years out
of this road. Mr. Fryktal replied technology has advanced in 40 years. Putting a
stable sub-base under the pavement will make the road last longer. After 15 years
it is not anticipated that the road will need to be reconstructed again. It could be
edge milled and overlaid with a 1" layer of asphalt and get another 15 years out of
it. Councilmember Pritzlaff stated because ofthe water and sewer underneath is
why we would have to do a total reconstruct. They only need 10-15 years out of
this road. City Engineer Mann stated someday the utilities will need to be
replaced. They cannot determine when that will be. Councilmember Pritzlaff
stated they do not need a road that will last 40 years. Mr. Fryktal stated if you are
looking for a short-term road and having to do patching during that time when it
breaks up because the material underneath is not stable that could be done.
Councilmember Pritzlaff stated the flyash will be mixed with the existing soil and
will there be as good a compaction as the ground is sitting on today. Mr. Fryktal
stated he would expect it to be better and more stable.
Councilmember Fogarty stated if flyash is successful in reconstructs why was it
not suggested in the first place. It seems Class 5 must be far superior for the cost
difference. Mr. Fryktal stated they thought of the flyash after they say what the
cost was getting to after the updated version to complete the project. They looked
for alternatives to keep the cost down.
Councilmember Pritzlaff noted an item on the spreadsheet for Class 5 was
$75,000. He asked where the pay item is for the amount to be hauled out. That is
Council Minutes (Regular)
September 18,2006
Page 4
why we have a different proposal because there was not a pay item for the amount
of material that has to be hauled out. City Engineer Mann noted the item for
common excavation is the cost to remove the soils that the Class 5 would
displace, which is $83,200. Councilmember Pritzlaff stated figuring we were
putting Class 5 down why and who did not have that figured in. City Engineer
Mann replied there are two ways this item could have been shown in the
specification. One way is to have two pay items. One would be the common
excavation and then another pay item for the Class 5. Another way to show this
would be to have the entire cost as part ofthe placement of the Class 5 which
would include removing the soils and placing Class 5. It is a matter of how the
specification is written. The specification did not say that the Class 5 included the
common excavation and there was no line item for common excavation.
Councilmember McKnight asked Mr. Fryktal about the number of roads Waseca
and Cottage Grove constructed with flyash. Mr. Pryktal did not know about the
number of roads for Waseca. Cottage Grove used this material on one road.
Councilmember McKnight asked City Engineer Mann for his thoughts on using
bituminous on the existing surface. City Engineer Mann replied the standard is
3.5" of asphalt and 6" of Class 5. That is why staff brought back that option two
weeks ago. Realizing that cost became more and taking into account the types of
soils we have on this project, staff saw an alternative to save some money and still
meet the goals of the proj ect which is to have a road that will last 10-15 years.
City Administrator Herlofsky distributed financial information showing the
original budget, the budget after the bids, and the revised budget based on the
$670,000 proposal. There is also a column showing the year-to-date costs ofthe
project. At the top it shows the revenues. Assessments to homeowners of
$162,752 remains unchanged and other funding sources were also shown. This
includes the proposal using the flyash. Councilmember McKnight stated Council
left two weeks ago thinking this was $610,000 now it is $670,000. He asked
where the revenue portion is for the $670,000. Finance Director Roland replied
the road and bridge fund.
Ms. Mary Swanson, 1404 Lower Heritage Way, asked what the subsoil was in
Waseca. Mr. Fryktal replied it was clay. Ms. Swanson asked if it changes the
quality ofthe flyash mixture if you have sand, clay or gravel. Mr. Fryktal stated it
does not change. Ms. Swanson stated if it is less cost and it is a quality road, is
the City using them as an experiment or will this be done in the future everywhere
because it is a good deal. She feels the spray material they put on the road was an
experiment and it was not a good idea. If it is that good a deal it should be good
enough for all of Farmington. Mayor Soderberg stated it sounds like it is new to
Minnesota. Flyash is used in concrete.
Councilmember Wilson stated MnDOT does test materials for how well they will
work. If there are only two communities in Minnesota using this, is this material
better for a warmer climate. City Engineer Mann stated they would need to do
Council Minutes (Regular)
September 18, 2006
Page 5
further research to determine if those are the only two communities in Minnesota.
Mr. Fryktal stated he looked on the internet and found it was used in North
Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Minnesota.
Mr. Dave Steinke, 1412 Lower Heritage Way, stated he has not heard a clear
explanation to the questions asked. How does $100,000 worth of material get
missed? Last time it was $609,000 and that was supposed to be all. Now we are
looking at considerably more. Who is responsible for missing that and who is
being held accountable for missing that? Why are the taxpayers of Farmington
being asked to make up for that item that was missed. He felt they deserve that
answer. It was also mentioned the existing base was there for 35 years and it
worked fine according to the City's own evaluations in October 2005. Since we
are asking for a 10-15 year road why are we spending any additional money on
something that appears to be experimental? Even if we do have to maintain it and
fix a pothole here and there why can't we save that money and use the existing
base. A simple answer would be nice to get. It is a simple question we should get
a direct answer. Who is the consultant employed by? Is it Bonestroo
Engineering, is it an independent individual? Where is this information coming
from? How credible is it? He did not mean to be disrespectful but at this point in
time, the residents should be hearing that information as well. Not being able to
tell us how many miles of roads this was used on, we should know that. If it was
used somewhere else we should know that. Doing some research on the internet
is a great tool, but it is not the end all as a research tool. There should be better
answers available before we spend the money on flyash. A person can find a case
on the internet to support anything you choose to have it support.
Mr. Jerry Ristow, 516 Lower Heritage Way, stated at the last meeting a motion
was made and passed unanimously to fix the road per the City standards. It is the
code of the City to use 6" of gravel and 4" of blacktop. Now he was hearing
something different. Does this meet the City code?
Mayor Soderberg stated this is different than the standard. City Engineer Mann
replied that is correct. Typically we have Class 5 base. The standard detail plates
show Class 5. Mayor Soderberg stated if we were going to remain true to the
motion made at the last meeting we would need to do the Class 5 base. There
have been some points raised that this is experimental or outside the standards.
City Attorney Poehler stated Council could limit themselves to the former motion,
they could amend the specifications if there is enough evidence to do so and
amend the motion to include the new option. The specifications should be
changed for this project or on the City standards. This could be done as a test
project.
Councilmember McKnight asked if there was an estimate for putting the asphalt
on the base as is. City Engineer Mann stated staff would have to calculate that.
He believed it would be less than the $609,000, but there were some driveways
that needed to be replaced that added some cost so they would have to see how
Council Minutes (Regular)
September 18, 2006
Page 6
that balances out. Councilmember Wilson would also like to see the numbers, but
the next meeting is October 2, 2006. Weare coming into the time of year where
it could be too late to put down asphalt.
Mayor Soderberg stated there is no way to determine how long the utilities will
last. With the flyash there is the potential to extend the life ofthe road 30-40
years with an edge mill and overlay. The utilities have been in the ground for 40
years. City Engineer Mann replied there are areas where utilities are 60-70 years
old and are still functioning. The Main Street project had utilities that were 80-90
years old. Each situation is different. It is possible the utilities could last another
20-30 years, but it depends on conditions.
Councilmember Wilson stated if we put down bituminous over the existing base
and put this on the 7-year seal coat cycle would it last 10-15 years or would the
lack of a Class 5 base cause issues. City Engineer Mann replied based on what
has been experienced with the roadways thus far we could expect a similar
experience as in the past. Councilmember Wilson stated he would be inclined to
look at the asphalt without the Class 5. This would reduce the cost below what
was stated two weeks ago.
Councilmember McKnight asked if staff looked at maintenance for the first 10-15
years or the last 10-15 years. City Engineer Mann replied the first 10-15 years
would be less maintenance. Councilmember McKnight stated this is not the area
to experiment with flyash if it will be torn up in 10-15 years for the utilities. He
agreed with putting the asphalt over the existing base. We struggled to get to the
$609,000 at the last meeting now to look at $670,000 is a lot more money.
Councilmember Pritzlaff stated if we use flyash we are saving money. From his
standpoint we are not saving money if it is more than what was approved last
time. He asked again out of $609,000 knowing that we were going to put $75,000
worth of Class 5 did we miss a $100,000 pay item. City Engineer Mann replied
because when staff looked at the bid items, they used the bid items as they were
bid to estimate the cost. There was an item for Class 5 and knowing that the Class
5 was meant to patch the roadway areas, staff utilized that number to expand the
amount of Class 5 from what was originally planned for to cover the rest of the
project as proposed. After doing that, staff reviewed the specifications and found
that the original Class 5 as listed in the project did not include the subgrade
excavation which has to be part of it in order to put the Class 5 in.
Councilmember Pritzlaff stated initially in the contract the Class 5 was stated to
address a few areas that might be bad. City Engineer Mann replied staff wanted
to make sure there were quantities in the contract that would allow patching in
some areas if needed. Councilmember Pritzlaffunderstood that, but when
Council approved the $609,000 it said 6" of Class 5 throughout the whole project.
Why at that point in time did we not know that we have to dig 6" of fill out in
order to put 6" of Class 5 in. That was the pay item that missing that we now
know increased the amount of Class 5 because we are not fixing certain areas, we
Council Minutes (Regular)
September 18, 2006
Page 7
are putting a 6" base on everything. He cannot see how $100,000 was missed
when we knew we were going to put a 6" base over everything. City Engineer
Mann replied because the original contract had 6" of Class 5 for those patching
areas. Had the project gone as planned, where there was good asphalt, but there
were a couple areas of patching, there would have been a change order to cover
the common excavation because the specification did not include the common
excavation with the Class 5. When staff came up with the $610,000 they looked
at the pay item and it is reasonable where the common excavation is listed along
with the Class 5 placement as one pay item. Knowing there was already patching
included, staff assumed that is the way it was listed. When the entire specification
was reviewed, staff found that was not the case, and the pay item was missing. If
the original project would have gone as planned, there would have been a change
order for any patching to include the common excavation. Councilmember
Pritzlaff stated as far as maintenance and edge mill was mentioned. Mr. Fryktal
stated that would be done every 15 years. Councilmember Pritzlaff asked if that
would affect the seal coat project done every 7 years. Would we have to do a seal
coat 3 years after this was done? City Engineer Mann replied the purpose of a
seal coat and a mill and overlay are different. The seal coat is to keep the water
out of the cracks and keep the pavement from deteriorating. It also puts another
layer of rock on top that helps the road from wearing down more. The mill and
overlay provides structural strength to the pavement in a way seal coat does not.
Councilmember Pritzlaff stated he has to assume the City will stick with seal coat.
In Hill Dee we were going to do a seal coat in three years and from then in seven
years. Now the question becomes we have had two seal coats, how does that
affect the edge mill? City Engineer Mann replied the edge mill can still be
accomplished. Councilmember Pritzlaff stated when talking about the Class 5, is
the $75,000 the total originally figured for patching or is that after the 6" base.
Staff replied that was from the last meeting. Councilmember Pritzlaff stated if we
use $10,000 of Class 5 to bring us down to $65,000. Why can't he assume
$65,000 off of the $609,000 project they ordered at the last meeting? City
Engineer Mann replied the Class 5 is not the only issue they found since the last
meeting. There is also $13,000 to remove and replace the driveways mentioned
that have the 4" lip. Councilmember Pritzlaff asked where the 4" lip came from.
City Engineer Mann replied that was a description from Council that had been out
there. Councilmember Pritzlaff stated he saw one driveway in Centennial Court
that had a very abrupt lip, but that is the only one he saw. City Engineer Mann
replied Mr. Fryktal reviewed the driveways and included all of them in this cost.
There are several driveways. Councilmember Pritzlaff asked if that was created
by the project or by the contractor that was doing the work. City Engineer Mann
stated they need to find out if the contractor made that decision or if he was
directed to do that. Councilmember Pritzlaff asked why assume the $13,000 now
until we find out. He was not going to spend money on something that was not
out there. Last time he stated $609,000 was the last number he wanted to see.
Even if the issue with the Class 5 had not come up, staff would still be coming
back to Council for more money. He saw on the revenue portion where it says
Council Minutes (Regular)
September 18, 2006
Page 8
miscellaneous he saw nothing as a dollar amount for engineering. He
recommended milling off the 4" which he saw today and put down the asphalt.
Councilmember Wilson asked about the borings and if that was a new budget
item included. City Engineer Mann stated the contractor dug some holes to see
what the soils looked like and that is not an additional cost.
Councilmember Fogarty stated this is not where she wanted to see this project
going and she has a lot of concerns. She has concerns with the flyash and does
not know enough about it. There is not enough time to be educated on it and a
decision has to be made tonight. This is not the area for us to do an experiment.
She also had a concern with not being able to do it when it is raining. Ifwe hit
two weeks of rain this proj ect will not get done this year and we cannot have that.
When a complete reconstruct is done, is all of the Class 5 removed? City
Engineer Mann replied the Class 5 gets mixed in and contaminated with the other
soils. New Class 5 would be brought in. Councilmember Fogarty stated she
would like to see the streets built up to code. If the Class 5 could be used again, it
could save money in the total reconstruct, but that cannot be done. Putting the
asphalt down on the current soil seems to be the right thing to do. City Attorney
Poehler stated there is no liability to the City for not building it up to code.
Mayor Soderberg stated by placing blacktop over the existing sub-soils we are
guaranteeing that we will have to do a total reconstruct in 15 years. City Engineer
Mann stated we would expect similar performance out of these roads as we have
seen since they were built.
Councilmember Pritzlaff stated where the new concrete was replaced, the valley
gutters and the new curbs he assumed the City would not be responsible and that
the milling company would be. He noticed Apple Valley milled off Cedar
Avenue and he did not see any curbing being replaced. He asked if it was typical
that curbing has to be replaced in a mill and overlay project. Mr. Fryktal replied
the Cedar Avenue project was done by the County. The curbing varies from area
to area depending on the soils. Councilmember Pritzlaff noted it was budgeted
for 1/3 ofthe curbing to be replaced and now it is up to 50%.
MOTION by Pritzlaff, second by Wilson to retract the motion from the last
meeting and mill off all the asphalt, grade the soil, fix bad spots and put asphalt
down over the current sub-soils. This will save money from the Class 5 that will
not be used.
City Administrator Herlofsky stated his concern is that the condition of the road
will arrive back to the current condition sooner. Weare trading off investment for
routine maintenance. Councilmember Wilson had a concern with not knowing
the cost of the project. We are approving an open ended expenditure.
Councilmember McKnight stated we cannot afford to wait. He should not assume
it will be cheaper but he does. Councilmember Fogarty stated we are fishing
Council Minutes (Regular)
September 18, 2006
Page 9
blind and it is frustrating. Mayor Soderberg does not like experimenting but
understood engineering brought the flyash option forward to keep costs down.
The overlooked common excavation amount needs to be mitigated somewhere. It
would be good to experiment with the flyash during a total reconstruct
somewhere. When we build something we need to do it right. If we overlook
costs, we overlook costs and that is unfortunate. He will not support the motion.
Mr. Jerry Ristow stated he knows the Mayor was not here at the last meeting, but
per the direction of the City Engineer to the four Councilmembers that were here,
it was sub-standard and he would not recommend doing a road without 6" of
Class 5 and 4" of blacktop. That is what the motion was. A good portion of the
residents left that meeting with that anticipation. We could have had all new curb
put in the area and they said no, the time was getting short and the project was
supposed to be done September 1,2006. So to settle for the checkerboard curb
and not take any other option we were going to get a road recommended by the
City Engineer per City standards. If you are going to do something, be consistent.
Don't give us a halfway road that will not work. Next spring you will be patching
if you do not put the gravel in now. Mr. Ristow stated Councilmember Pritzlaff
was out there today and saw the chunks. Councilmember Pritzlaff stated we have
gone down 4" now for the asphalt and would have to go down an additional 6".
There was something missed and in the financing there is nothing from
engineering, but there should be. In trying to get the road back together and not
see the costs go up, going over the old sub-soils would not be a bad thing to do
because the road has lasted 35 years. Trying to minimize the extra dollar amount
takes more off the amount of the proj ect by not using all the Class 5 and is saving
the City money in that aspect. It is sub-standard from the roads, but in this case
we will be in there in 15 years digging up the utilities. Saving the money now
would be better. Mr. Ristow stated he saw the large rock today that will pull out
with the blade and it will mix the clay and black dirt and you do not know what
you will have. When it freezes you will have frost heaves and you will pay for it
next spring. Do it right now. You are halfway there, finish the project.
Councilmember McKnight noted Mayor Soderberg would not support the motion
and asked for his recommendation. Mayor Soderberg stated he does not like the
idea of experimenting with the flyash, but knows flyash is a concrete like
substance and would create a suitable base for the asphalt. Class 5 would be his
first choice, but they are trying to keep the cost down. If we know we will be
digging it up and cannot reclaim the Class 5 it would be prudent to put down a
suitable base, but keep the cost as low as possible. To use Class 5 we are looking
at another $83,000 over the flyash cost. We need a suitable base or it will shift. It
is some experimentation. The recommendation of the City Engineer is to do the
flyash treatment and he will have to go with that, although his first choice would
be the Class 5. Councilmember McKnight stated he is assuming in 15 years there
will be a total reconstruct. When looking at $670,000 compared to $609,000 are
we risking $60,000 by approving the motion. Will that money be spent in the
next 15 years if they do not do flyash? City Engineer Mann replied the flyash will
Council Minutes (Regular)
September 18, 2006
Page 10
give a more suitable base. Whether it will be the same as Class 5 remains to be
seen over time. There will be a more stable base with the flyash than without.
Finance Director Roland confirmed the spreadsheet assumes the $670,000 flyash
option. It also assumes there will be no increase to special assessments.
Councilmember Wilson withdrew his second to the motion because they do not
know what the cost will be. He would rather spend more on a known than spend
money on something he does not know what the cost will be. Mayor Soderberg
asked City Engineer Mann ifhe has reviewed the specifications enough to know
that we are in good shape. City Engineer Mann stated Mr. Fryktal has reviewed
the specifications thoroughly and he has been doing mill and overlay projects for
25 years. He trusts he has done what is needed to come up with an accurate cost
with the knowledge we have today.
Mayor Soderberg asked if there was a second to the motion to lay asphalt over the
existing soils. MOTION DIED for lack of a second.
MOTION by McKnight to go with option 4 as recommended by staff which is
the flyash option at a cost of $670,000 and asked that staff investigate the
potential sharing of costs with the parties involved. Councilmember Fogarty
stated she is very concerned with this project not getting paved this year. At this
point in the year it is a reality that this could not happen. Approving a project
with this product when it is so weather sensitive sits badly with her. She does not
want the residents not having a road this winter. In that case, you do the Class 5
because it can get done this year. Hopefully we will get 20-25 years out of the
road and the infrastructure will not need to be redone. This project will not get
cheaper. She cannot vote for anything that she does not know will have pavement
this winter. Councilmember Fogarty recommended the $756,000 option. Mayor
Soderberg stated it is an additional $83,000 to put down Class 5. That is our City
standard and that would,be his first choice, but it is a lot of extra money. He
asked where the money would come from. Finance Director Roland replied the
gentleman referred to City standards being followed as to how the road is
constructed. The City also has a standard in the special assessment policy, that
assessments on projects cannot exceed the amount of the appraisal. Council has
agreed to not increase the amount ofthe special assessments to cover the
additional costs on this project, but she reminded Council that the appraisal value
is $2,000 per property. With regard to the limiting of the costs it was our attempt
to keep it under the $985 amount. There is still the option of increasing the
special assessments. As far as revenues to support the additional funding, the
road and bridge fund does have money we have been putting away over time as a
result ofthe CSAH 31 project where MSA funds were used and we have been
paying ourselves back. Those funds are revolving funds used to up front projects.
There is ample funding at this time because the funds are over $1 million. The
$985 assessment was based on a much lesser cost project and it still is under the
$2,000 appraisal limit which is sustainable to a challenge in court. Due to the
lateness of this particular project, at this point we would not be able to hold an
Council Minutes (Regular)
September 18, 2006
Page 11
assessment hearing within enough time to bring these assessments onto the 2007
tax rolls. Consequently the assessments would not come onto the rolls until the
2008 taxes.
Mayor Soderberg seconded the motion.
Councilmember Wilson stated the CIP for this project is $750,000.
Councilmember Pritzlaff stated to the residents from what he heard last time it
would be acceptable to have the asphalt over the existing sub-soil. The only way
he could support the proj ect is if the residents supported the higher amount of
$756,000. He noted Councilmember McKnight's motion included all parties
involved. He asked what parties would be involved in sharing this cost.
Councilmember McKnight stated all parties. The amount for the residents has
been capped at $985. City Attorney Poehler stated they can look into that, but
there would be no guarantees.
Mr. Nick Schultz, 18869 Euclid Path, stated it sounds like time is of the essence.
With the Class 5 it sounded like you had to haul the old base away. Will that take
more time than using the flyash? Mr. Fryktal stated it would take at least as long
or longer. Class 5 you should also not lay down in the rain.
Mr. Jeff Thelen stated what they have heard over the last month is that these roads
were laid over poor soil with 1.5" of blacktop and they survived very well for 35
years. Now we are going to take that same soil and strip off another 1.5" and
have 4" of blacktop. Logic does not tell him those roads will not last for 30 years.
He assumes the blacktop is better than 35 years ago. The biggest thing that
confuses him is that Council is struggling with this and he sympathized with what
they are going through. He hoped the one lesson we have all learned is that if we
cannot trust our engineering firm, maybe we have the wrong engineering firm.
He has heard two motions and assumed he will hear a third before the night is
over. We should all be able to get on the same page and ask engineering for their
recommendation and be able to trust that. Right now, there are very few people in
this room that can trust them.
Councilmember Wilson stated Council has mentioned a number of different
options. The flyash option and the Class 5 option. It seems like every meeting
we are being set back another meeting because we do not have all the
information. He does not think the three options presented are outside the scope
of what you might reasonably expect Council to be looking for.
Mayor Soderberg stated there is a motion and a second to go with option 4 which
is the 6" flyash option on the milled out area and 1.5" of bituminous on the flyash
and bituminous on all roads and to explore options for funding from parties
involved. Voting for: Soderberg, McKnight. Voting against: Fogarty, Pritzlaff,
Wilson. MOTION FAILED.
Council Minutes (Regular)
September 18, 2006
Page 12
Councilmember Pritzlaff asked how much money is saved if there is a 3" base of
Class 5 instead of 6" and what does that do for the road. City Engineer Mann
replied some Class 5 will give you a different benefit than no Class 5. The cost
would have to be calculated. MOTION by Pritzlaffto look at a 3" base of Class
5 and have all parties involved have some responsibility. Mayor Soderberg stated
if we are going to start changing the standard, and he recognized the flyash was a
recommendation from engineering, then we need to do a regular cross section just
like City standards. Then the only thing we need to address is the additional cost
of $756,000. MOTION by Wilson, second by Fogarty to complete the project
using the Class 5 as standard also noting the project estimate of $756,244.99 is
roughly $6200 over the original capital improvement plan as identified in the
2006 CIP. Voting for: Soderberg, Fogarty, Pritzlaff, Wilson. Voting against:
McKnight. MOTION CARRIED.
8. PUBLIC HEARINGS
Mayor Soderberg noted a public hearing was advertised for Castle Rock annexation
issues and due to an Orderly Annexation Agreement which will be addressed later, that
hearing will not be held.
a) Amend CUP Mining Operation ISD 192 - Community Development
ISD 192 has requested an amendment to the original CUP approved on July 17,
2006. The original approval was for 60,000 cubic yards of sand to be mined from
the 5.8 acre borrow pit site located in the southeast corner south ofMeadowview
Elementary School. There was a miscalculation by the school district's engineer.
They miscalculated by 100%. It was determined that in that borrow pit there was
not 60,000 cubic yards, but 120,000 cubic yards. Therefore, the original CUP
needs to be amended. The other situation is after the July 17, 2006 meeting the
DNR and the SWCD reviewed the original haul route and stated the route should
go 680 ft. to the west. There is a drainage ditchjust south ofthe original route.
The agencies proposed that the original haul route would cause more adverse
problems to the drainage ditch because of the number of trucks passing through.
They proposed a new haul route that would go straight west. The DNR and
SWCD along with the City Attorney and City Engineer approved a 7 ft. diameter
corrugated metal pipe instead of the original box culvert. This is because it is one
section and the width is not as large as a box culvert. The borrow pit is open right
now and they are allowed to haul. Currently they are doing erosion control
measures, stripping some ofthe top soil and putting in the new haul route with the
corrugated metal pipe. The 120,000 cubic yards will add 3,000 additional trucks.
The new route will have less of an impact to the roadway and the residents. The
school district has requested the borrow pit remain open until December 15, 2006
rather than the original closing date of November 1,2006. Flagstaffwill be
closed in certain areas during the hauling operation. The proposed closure will
occur at the curve on Flagstaff and CR64. It will be open for local traffic. The
other closure will be just south of the new high school property line. The hauling
Council Minutes (Regular)
September 18, 2006
Page 13
operation will occur from September 25 - December 15,2006. The 120,000
cubic yards remains in the original grading area.
Approval is subject to the following conditions:
1. The applicant is allowed to mine 120,000 cubic yards from the borrow pit.
2. The applicant must obtain final City approval ofthe mining operation and
the rough grading plan from the City Engineer.
3. The applicant must pay any applicable fees, provide adequate surety in an
amount and form approved by the Director of Public Works, and comply
with any other reasonable conditions imposed by the Director of Public
Works.
4. All excavation activities must be consistent with plans submitted to and
approved by the Director of Public Works.
Councilmember Pritzlaff stated at the July 17, 2006 meeting when they approved
the 60,000 cubic yards he understood a box culvert was approved. He noticed last
week Wednesday before it came to the Planning Commission for an amendment,
they had already put in the galvanized round culverts. Why the change before any
type of approval from the Planning Commission or the Council. City Planner
Smick replied the reason they made the change to the corrugated pipe and the haul
route was the original route did show the box culvert on the north side of the
drainage stream. The DNR and SWCD said they do not want that much impact to
the area so the original route was moved with a metal corrugated pipe which is
narrower and less adverse to stream impacts and is one section rather than three
sections. Councilmember Pritzlaff stated he assumed at that meeting that the
culvert would be left, but it will be removed after the mining. City Planner Smick
confirmed it will be removed, it is just temporary. Councilmember Pritzlaff noted
there is a green utility box in the middle of the road for the haul route. Enebak
Construction is aware of the utility box and they will be working with the utility
company. Councilmember Pritzlaff noted there was a number mentioned of six
trucks, 11 hours/day for 20 days. With the 120,000 cubic yards he asked how
many trucks, how many hours a day and how many days. Enebeck Construction
stated it will take place 10 hours/day and over the timeframe outlined. When the
project was bid the 120,000 cubic yards was anticipated by the people bidding.
The final grade plans indicate 120,000 cubic yards. Councilmember Pritzlaff
noted there was an amount of $1 O/yard on the fill and asked if that was how much
it cost to mine it. Mr. Doug Bonar stated he recalled speaking about a particular
cost. This was a publicly bid project and to own sand on your property and have
it excavated and transported to the site is still more cost effective than purchasing
the sand independently, having it mined and transported to the site.
Councilmember Pritzlaff stated he received a fax today from Aggregate Industries
that it would be $3/yard to have that material hauled from off site.
Councilmember Fogarty asked about the road closure and ifthey can get across
CR64. The road will be open to local traffic and there will be a meeting with the
residents next week to inform them exactly what will happen. MOTION by
Council Minutes (Regular)
September 18,2006
Page 14
Wilson, second by McKnight to close the public hearing. APIF, MOTION
CARRIED. MOTION by McKnight, second by Fogarty to approve the
amended Conditional Use Permit for mining of a borrow pit at the southeastern
portion ofthe Meadowview Elementary School property subject to the above
conditions. Voting for: Soderberg, Fogarty, McKnight, Wilson. Voting against:
Pritzlaff. MOTION CARRIED.
b) Adopt Resolution - Certification of Delinquent Utility Bills - Finance
Delinquent utility bills can be certified to a property owner's taxes as a special
assessment over one year for collection. Delinquent bills are 90 days or more
overdue. Owners were mailed notices and they may pay their delinquent bills by
the end of business on October 17,2006. At the time notices were sent delinquent
bills amounted to $166,000. Staff anticipates this to be under $100,000 at the
time of certification in October. Only those with delinquent bills after October
18, 2006 will be certified to the taxes.
Councilmember Pritzlaff asked how many households this covered. Staff
explained this also includes people who have moved and left an unpaid bill. The
closing companies should call the City to determine ifthere is a delinquent bill so
the money can be escrowed at the time of closing. Otherwise the new owner is
billed this amount. The number is significantly less than last year. Staffwill
advise Council of the final number after the certifications.
Ms. Susan Poirot, W 265th Street, stated they own a building and had three rental
tenants last year. The tenant moved out in October 2005 and the first time she
knew they did not pay their utility bill was August 25, 2006 when she received the
notice that they would be assessed on their property taxes. They had no idea the
tenant was not paying the bill. She felt the City should notify the property owner
if there are tenants who are not paying their bills such as a duplicate bill. She did
not order garbage service from the City, the tenant did. The tenant is still doing
business in Farmington at a different location. She assumes the City tried to
collect from them, but does not know for sure. She has a bill for $67.91, but it is
the principal of the matter. It is not fair, as a business owner if she tried to collect
a bill that was due a year later from someone and she had not notified them that
they even owed it, she would not bother to send them a bill for that money.
Mayor Soderberg stated that is the process that is available to the City by law, to
certify these once annually. Only bills that are 90 days or more overdue can be
certified. Finance Director Roland stated the City does have the ability to send
out multiple bills. Ifthe property owner has renters the City encourages them to
have the City send them a duplicate bill so they can see iftheir tenants are paying
the bill. Staff now asks if the resident is a tenant or the property owner.
MOTION by Fogarty, second by Pritzlaffto close the public hearing. APIF,
MOTION CARIED. MOTION by Pritzlaff, second by McKnight to adopt
RESOLUTION R106-06 certifying the delinquent accounts as special
Council Minutes (Regular)
September 18,2006
Page 15
assessments to the 2007 taxes of the appropriate properties. APIF, MOTION
CARRIED.
9. AWARD OF CONTRACT
10. PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS
a) Approve Park Master Plans for Daisy Knoll Park, Westview Park, Dakota
County Estates Park and Mystic Meadows 2nd Addition Park - Parks and
Recreation
Ms. Lil Latham of Hoisington Koegler presented the highlights of the Master
Plans for the above parks. Mystic Meadows Park phase 1 is on hold for one year.
It will take a year for construction plans, bidding, actual construction, and grass
development. The park would be available for use in 2009. The land for phase 1
will be obtained through park dedication. MOTION by Wilson, second by
Fogarty to approve the master plans for Daisy Knoll Park, Westview Park, Dakota
County Estates Park and Mystic Meadows Second Addition Park. APIF,
MOTION CARRIED.
City Administrator Herlofsky mentioned staff has had discussions with Newland
about the Fairhill development. At the last Parks and Recreation Commission
meeting there were comments that they are looking for support from the Council
to help them in discussions with Newland to have a park that is 60-65 acres. Staff
feels it needs to be emphasized that a very large park is needed. Mayor Soderberg
stated the Parks and Recreation Commission wanted some direction from Council
as to where we want to go. Newland has mentioned there are park amenities
scattered throughout the development. Mayor Soderberg would rather see a larger
park than scattered amenities. Council reached a consensus that they would rather
see a larger park.
b) Approve Agreement for One Year Extension of Recycling Contract - Parks
and Recreation
In 2002 the City entered into a five-year recycling contract with Dick's
Sanitation. The contract expires December 31,2006. At the August 7, 2006
meeting Council directed staff to negotiate a one-year extension of this contract.
Staffmet with Dick's Sanitation and reached an agreement. Parks and Recreation
Director Distad gave highlights of items covered in the agreement. Any excess
recycling revenue will be donated to the Youth Scholarship Program by DSI.
They will be recognized through advertising of this program. A drop off site will
be provided for electronics and tires on two Saturdays at the Central Maintenance
Facility. MOTION by McKnight, second by Fogarty to extend the recycling
contract for one year. APIF, MOTION CARRIED.
Council Minutes (Regular)
September 18, 2006
Page 16
c) Adopt Resolution - Approve Charleswood Marketplace Preliminary and
Final Plat and Site Plan - Community Development
This site is located on the corner of Pilot Knob Road and 195th Street. They plan
on splitting a 4.9 acre site into three lots with an outlot on the south. Parks and
Recreation Director Distad has requested a sidewalk within the development. As
it is less than 5 acres the park dedication will be cash in lieu. Regarding
transportation there will be three accesses all from Eureka Avenue. The access at
Eureka Avenue and 195th Street will be a full intersection until traffic warrants
meet the requirement for a right-in, right-out. The middle access will require a
cross easement. Contingencies are as follows:
1. The satisfaction of any engineering and planning comments.
2. A restrictive easement must be obtained and recorded, limiting access to
the drive in specific circumstances (i.e. no hazardous chemical trucks, etc.)
3. During the well site construction the easternmost north/south drive on the
site will have to be closed down in its entirety until the project is
completed, which may require the drive to be closed for up to one year.
4. The developer shall provide the City with written documentation
regarding Mid America Pipeline Company's approval of construction and
development within its gas easement.
5. The preparation and execution of the Development Contract and approval
ofthe construction plans for grading, stormwater and utilities by the
Engineering Division.
6. The submittal of a landscape plan acceptable to the City Planner.
7. A cross easement will have to be provided to allow the necessary ingress
and egress at the center access point.
8. Extend the proposed internal sidewalk south to Eureka Avenue.
MOTION by Pritzlaff, second by Wilson to adopt RESOLUTION R107-06
approving the preliminary and final plat for Charleswood Marketplace contingent
upon the above conditions. APIF, MOTION CARRIED.
d) Adopt Ordinance - Text Amendment Section 10-6-1 Regarding Residential
Swimming Pool Fences - Community Development
Currently the code defines a swimming pool as any enclosure in ground or above
ground having a water surface area exceeding 100 sq. ft. and a water depth of not
less than 1.5 ft. It also states a pool area shall be enclosed by a non-climbable
safety fence at least 5 ft. in height. Staffhas received numerous calls from
residents regarding this code. Staff proposes any permanent outdoor pool
structure in ground or above ground intended for swimming, wading or
recreational bathing having a capacity of 5,000 gallons or more shall be
considered a swimming pool and shall require a permit approved by Building
Inspections and must meet the following restrictions:
Council Minutes (Regular)
September 18,2006
Page 17
- A pool area shall be enclosed by a non-climbable safety fence or barrier at least
4 ft. in height.
- The fence shall have a self-latching gate with the latch at 38-42" above the
ground level.
- Storable pools do not require a fence or barrier provided all means of access
such as ladders are removed and the pool is covered when not attended.
- Storable pools do not require a permit from Building Inspections.
- A storable swimming pool has non-metallic, molded, polymeric walls or
inflatable fabric walls constructed on or above the ground and is so constructed
that it may be readily disassembled for storage and re-assembled to it's original
integrity.
Councilmember Fogarty asked why we want to reduce the fence height to 4 ft.
She was comfortable with 5 ft. Staff explained they have received concerns
throughout the years from residents of having to add an additional 1 ft. to their
fence. Surrounding communities require 4 ft. Councilmember Fogarty felt the
covers on the pools could be more dangerous. Councilmember Pritzlaff also had
a concern with the covers. He noted having the railing on the top of the pool and
they sit on the edge of the pool that will protect them from falling backwards.
Councilmember Wilson felt requiring a 5 ft. fence could cause a hardship and that
people would be responsible. There would be no liability on the City's part
according to what the code requires if someone were injured.
MOTION by Wilson, second by McKnight to adopt ORDINANCE 006-562
amending Sections 10-6-1(A), 10-6-1 (A) subd. 4, 10-6-1 (A) subd. 5, and 10-2-1
ofthe City Code. APIF, MOTION CARRIED.
1) Adopt Resolution - Bio-Zone Application - Community Development
The City has an opportunity to apply to enroll in a program that may provide
economic benefits to the City. In 2003 the legislature implemented a program
called the Biotechnology and Health Science Industry Zone program. This
provides additional incentives for companies to create new facilities. The benefit
companies would receive from being within a bioscience zone was protection
from various state taxes, exemptions from state and local sales and use taxes,
exemptions from corporate franchise taxes, and job credits of various kinds and
research and development credits. This would not affect property tax revenue.
This year the legislature decided to re-open the process and allow cities to apply.
Dakota Future is coordinating applications on the part of various cities. A
bioscience zone is any business that creates bio-medical products or engages in
agricultural type research or provides support services to those industries. Staff
prepared a map showing zoning districts that would allow the construction of
manufacturing facilities that could make bio-medical devices and other types of
uses consistent with the statute. Staff identified 13 parcels. All property owners
are in support of the program. MOTION by Fogarty, second by McKnight to
adopt RESOLUTION R10S-06 approving the bioscience zone application.
APIF, MOTION CARRIED.
Council Minutes (Regular)
September 18,2006
Page 18
11. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
a) Approve Advertisement for Bids - 1 st Street Garage - Wold Architects
Wold Architects presented the plans for the 1 st Street Garage. The existing garage
will be retained for temporary storage. The new garage will be constructed on the
southwest corner of the site. There will also be a gated impound lot on the
property. The building will be 1200 sq. ft. larger than anticipated in November.
The total project cost is $645,000. Bidding will be done in October, construction
will start soon after and finish construction in April 2007 which times out with the
start of construction for the new City Hall.
Councilmember Pritzlaff questioned the height ofthe building being 22 ft and
asked what will be stored in there that would require that much height. Staff
replied there will be plow trucks, etc. A mezzanine will also be included in the
building. Councilmember Pritzlaff noted there is also a mezzanine in the fire
station and asked ifthere was a fork lift available to put materials up there. Staff
stated there is a forklift at the Maintenance Facility and there is also a forklift for
the skidsters. Councilmember Pritzlaff did not want to have to be moving
forklifts from one building to another and creating spaces that would be hard to
get to.
MOTION by Wilson, second by Pritzlaffto approve the advertisement for bids.
APIF, MOTION CARRIED.
b) Adopt Resolution - Castle Rock Orderly Annexation Agreement -
Community Development
Adopt Resolution - Approve Mock Annexation - Community Development
Adopt Resolution - Approve Olson Annexation - Community Development
The Castle Rock Town Board approved the Orderly Annexation Agreement. The
agreement covers 918 acres. For any property owner within this area that wants
to become part of the City once they petition for annexation the township will not
oppose it. In exchange for that the City has agreed any property owners in the
township that own property outside of the boundary would not be eligible for
annexation for a period of 10 years unless the township consented. A revenue
sharing arrangement has been worked out with regard to property taxes that will
be generated by new residential construction in the area. MOTION by
McKnight, second by Fogarty to adopt RESOLUTION R109-06 approving the
Orderly Annexation Agreement between the City of Farmington and Castle Rock
Township. APIF, MOTION CARRIED.
Annexations for the Mock and Olson property have also been approved by the
Castle Rock Town Board. MOTION by Pritzlaff, second by Wilson to adopt
RESOLUTION Rll1-06 approving the annexation ofthe Olson property.
APIF, MOTION CARRIED. MOTION by Pritzlaff, second by McKnight to
Council Minutes (Regular)
September 18,2006
Page 19
adopt RESOLUTION Rll0-06 approving the annexation of the Mock property.
APIF, MOTION CARRIED.
12. NEW BUSINESS
13. COUNCIL ROUNDTABLE
Councilmember Fogarty: Wished Councilmember Wilson good luck in his marathon.
The groundbreaking ceremony for the new high school will be Sunday, October 1, 2006
at 2:00 p.m.
Councilmember McKnight: On September 19, 2006 at 7:00 p.m. there is a meeting for
anyone interested in volunteering or to propose new activities for the 2007 Rambling
River Days.
Councilmember PritzIaff: He was asked by a resident why Spruce Street does not line
up with the new Spruce Street going into Vermillion River Crossing. He noted the lanes
of traffic do, the sides of the curbing do not.
On the Perkins property there is a house being built and it has siding on it, but there is not
a finished street leading to it.
Mayor Soderberg: He met with representatives from the Girl Scouts and was
surprised to learn how many Girl Scouts there are in the City. He will be having
breakfast with them on November 8, 2006.
14. ADJOURN
MOTION by Fogarty, second by McKnight to adjourn at 10:45 p.m. APIF, MOTION
CARRIED.
Respectfully submitted,
~a ?Yl~
Cynthia Muller
Executive Assistant