Staff persons on hand were Rich Romness of Bolton & Menk, Joel Dasher, Anton Massmann, and Paul Hetland.
Approval of Minutes
The regular meeting minutes of the February 18 and March 4, 2003 introduced for review. Goebel moved to approve, seconded by Hennen and carried unanimously.
Staff Reports
A report on the general sinking fund was given by Massmann and distributed to the Council. The current Street Funds savings is $345,352.05 and the current General Equipment savings is $104,035.49.
Dasher reported the progress of the security system for the water tower. The back-up pressure dial and conduits have been installed. The Council was informed that the installation is expected to be completed in the next week.
Dasher brought to the Council's attention a commercial property question regarding water meters. It was unclear if the request was for internal or external usage; staff will follow through with the inquiry and report at the next meeting.
Dasher also reported that the water depth on the sanitation ponds were adequate, but stressed the need to do a water balance study.
Massmann reported that a quick claim deed was transferred to Mark Middendorf. He also reported that Middendorf had the specific training and willingness to assist the City's maintenance needs.
Massmann reported that he and Hetland were reviewing the Freeport Emergency Operations Plan and the civil defense director position. The Council requested that they review the plan and information before action is taken on the plan and recruiting a new director. Staff will be preparing information for a future meeting.
The Council discussed the possibility of purchasing a new street sweeper due to the lack of the current sweeper's storage capacity, ability to effectively pick up material, the machine's condition, and ability to provide inexpensive or available maintenance. Worms and Dasher presented handouts on two used models from a Florida dealership. Discussion followed. Options for filling the need included: contracting out services (year-round or as-needed), purchasing new or used machines, or purchasing equipment in conjunction with neighboring cities. Dasher, Massmann, and Hetland will be providing further information regarding street sweeping service options at the next meeting for Council review.
Worms moved and Goebel seconded a motion approving the claims list as reported by staff. Discussion was offered. Motion carried.
There was a discussion regarding the address change from Century Road to 7th Street St. SW and whether the proper emergency authorities have been made aware of the change and the placement of signs. The appropriate Stearns County authorities have been made aware of the change, but staff was asked to contact the County to ensure this change was forwarded to local emergency service agencies. Staff was also directed to post new street signs at the beginning and end of the street.
By request of the chair, the Council recessed at 8:20 P.M. and reconvened at 8:30 P.M.
7TH St. SW and Industrial Park
Rich Romness of Bolton & Menk was present due the Council's request. Romness discussed the recent changes and the upcoming plans. He stated that by the end of April curbs, gutters, and pavement should be installed. He also stated that the area adjacent to the streets would be graded to meet drainage needs, and driveways will remain unpaved. Humbert moved and Worms seconded a motion to approve Resolution 2003-08, the plans and specifications as presented and to proceed with the project. Discussion offered. Motion carried.
The Council requested a report of outstanding water bills and the AFSA account for the next meeting.
The Council will hold a special meeting on Tuesday, April 15, 2003 at 6:30 P.M. at the City Hall.
Worms moved and Thelen seconded a motion to adjourn at 9:30 P.M. Motion carried.
