Also in attendance were the following: Rodney Atkinson, Rich Romness, Roberta Olson, and Dr. Deborah Proechel.
Staff persons on hand were Paul Hetland and Joel Dasher.
The Pledge of Allegiance was said by those in attendance.
Approval of the Minutes
Thelen moved and Goebel seconded a motion to approve the September 10 and September 24 meeting minutes as amended. Discussion offered. Motion carried.
Conditional Use Permit Request
Dr. Deborah Proechel was in attendance to present her conditional use permit proposal to establish a chiropractic and naturopathic healthcare practice. Hetland discussed the process for the permit. Copies of Freeport City Code, the application, and a map of the location were also presented. Worms moved and Humbert seconded a motion to initiate the conditional use permit process for Dr. Deborah Proechel. Discussion offered. Motion carried.
Report - Rich Romness, BOLTON & MENK
Rich Romness presented his findings regarding lighting in the Industrial Park. The total price for six poles was $21,800.00. Council discussed the expense and requested that Hetland examine the lease and franchise agreement with Xcel Energy and propose alternative, more cost-effective lighting options.
Report - Joel Dasher, Maintenance Worker
Dasher reported that the City was currently in possession of and caring for a lost dog. Hetland presented flyers that had been distributed to local businesses, the Chamber of Commerce, and announced on local radio stations.
Dasher provided a written report to Council.
Regarding water system updates, Hiltner Auto's services for their new building have been completed. A flammable waste trap was installed and a connection for the new portion of the building. Dasher reported on a Scherping Electric proposal for a three phase generator to power a well in the event of prolonged power loss. The proposal included a 75 kw, 200 amp, 120/208 volt, three phase, pto generator at $4890.00. Two wheel trailer for unit for $525.00. Power take off shaft for $395.00. Power cord for $12.00 per foot. It was noted that prices did not include taxes. Dasher also reported that he and Hetland met with Harold Desautel of Preferred Controls the preceding Friday to discuss the relocation of the water security system in the new city hall. Lead and Copper samples have all been tested and have passed. This round was all below the limit and we will stay on an annual testing schedule. Before we had to test quarterly because of failed tests. Due to chemical addition of LPC-4 for corrosion control we have had less corrosion of copper and lead pipes. Fluoride and bacteria tests for the Quarter also passed.
Dasher updated the Council on Waste Water updates. Discharging of the ponds started on this day and will continue until the appropriate level of 3 feet is reached. The valve has been installed in the discharge structure and works well. More work is being done along the dike, but due to cold weather the final grading and seeding may not be completed this year. Jim Schulz, SEH is working with the contractors to find the best course of action to avoid erosion, etc.
On other maintenance issues, street sweeping was completed by the City and most leaves were collection. Catch basins have been cleaned out to keep runoff water flowing. Getting snow removal equipment ready and installed for snow expected on the following Tuesday. Arnzens Welding added some steel shoes to the blower for wear against curbs. A new cutting edge and curb protectors were also purchased the preceding week. Christmas decorations will be going up on December 1.
Report - Paul Hetland, City Clerk/Treasurer
Hetland reported that Lots 3 and 4 of Block 1 of the Welle Country Acres have been sold to Hennen Lumber Co. Only one lot remains unsold. Demolition for Lots 1 and 2 of Block 1 begins the day after the meeting according to Dave Gerads.
Hetland reported that the Road Projects Committee met for the first time after the town meeting on November 7 at 9:00 AM. The group examined minutes, assessment information, and maps provided by Hetland. It was noted that the project should take place as early as possible in the construction season to avoid disruption to businesses. It was encouraged that at a future meeting residents be encouraged to attend, perhaps by holding an evening meeting.
Hetland also reported on the alley vacancy request from Ron and Elaine Ritter. The Stearns County Assessor and Surveyors offices report that they don't have any record of a partial vacancy in that block. Hetland contacted the surveyor Sam DeLeo, he noted that his map was taken from previously made city maps and several versions since 1947 do note the partial alley vacancy. Through extensive research of past meeting minutes Humbert nor Hetland could find any notation on an alley being vacated in the aforementioned area. It should be noted that a discussion at a previous city council meeting may have occurred but no notations were made not formal action taken either in form of a motion or instruction to the appropriate county offices. Therefore, until documentation arises to prove otherwise, a full alley exists on the block.
Regarding Beutz Radiator Service, the State Fire Marshall and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency had once again been contacted. Officials mentioned that little could be done considering state budget cuts, but an investigator from each agency would be sent out when resources became available.
Hetland provided a calendar for Council and EDA meetings in 2004.
Hetland gave an update on the new city hall. Door sizes, types, and other details have been finalized and ordered. A representative of Albany Telephone reported that they will be donating a state-of-the-art phone system. Communications wiring has been installed everywhere throughout the building.
New Business
Worms moved and Thelen seconded a motion to approve Pay Application No. 1 for the 2003 Wastewater Stabilization Pond Berm in the amount of $47,497.19. Discussion offered. Motion carried.
Thelen moved and Worms seconded a motion to approve the one day gambling permit at the Freeport Community Center for the Stearns County Pheasants Forever on Saturday, March 20, 2004. Discussion offered. Motion carried.
Humbert moved and Worms seconded a motion to approve the outstanding claims in the amount of $136,381.06. Discussion included the removal of an invoice from RAK Industries for shovels. Motion carried.
Discussion followed regarding the construction of the new city hall. It was mentioned that the viewing screen should stay behind the main Council desk for better visibility for the audience. To aid in the viewing for Council, it was suggested that monitors be installed in the table. Also, the roll-up door in the reception area should be vacated to create better visibility and save funds. Construction of the Council desk included removing the lip on the edge and creating angles similar to the current table and Albany's table.
At 10:15 P.M. Worms moved and Goebel seconded a motion to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried.
