HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC January 4, 1983
·
~ 01 ANDOVER
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING - JANUARY 4, 1983
AGENDA
1. Call to Order - 7:30 P.M.
- Jerry Windschitl - Mayor
2. Swearing-In Ceremony - Jim Elling, Councilmember
- Mike Knight, Councilmember
3 . Resident Forum
4. Agenda Approval
5. Organizational Items
a. Appoint Acting Mayor
b. Designation of Legal Newspaper
c. Selection of Official Depositories
d. Review of Council By-Laws
e. Approval of Official Bonds
f. Special/Standing Committee Appointments
g. Appointment of Commission Members
h. Appointment of Commission Chairpersons
6. Discussion Items
a. Harold Mayes/Variance
b. Assessment pOlicy/MSA Improvements
c. Amendment-Ordinance No. 1 1 (Planning & Zoning Commission)
d.
7. Non-Discussion Items
a. Junkyard License Approvals
b.
8. Reports of Commissions, Committees, Staff
9 . Approval of Claims
10. Adjournment
CITY 01 ANDOVER
M E M 0 RAN DUM
TO: MAYOR AND COUNCIL /
t! /
CO PI ES TO: ATTORNEY, STAFF .. . !'r~
~"f,' j
FROM: CITY CLERK/A. ADMINISTRATO,I1,I/ /
'---.<./(
DATE: DECEMBER 30. 1982 l
REFERENCE: REGULAR MEETING INFORMATION - JANUARY 4. 1983
Item No. 2 - Swearing-in/Mayor and Council Elect
Thè "Oath of Office" must be administered to those officials elected
in 1982, and now taking office, i.e., Mayor Jerry Windschitl,
Councilman Jim Elling and Councilman Mike Knight. It is preferable
that this be done individually. The Oath can be administered either
by Attorney Hawkins or myself.
Item No. 4 - Agenda Approval
Item No. Sa - Appoint Acting Mayor
The Acting Mayor is to be appointed for the 1983 calendar year.
Councilman Orttel has filled this position for the past 5 years.
The nominations are made by motion, with a vote taken after each.
Item No. 5b - Designation of Legal Newspaper
As in previous years, the Anoka County Union and Shopper should be
moved to be designated as our legal newspapers. Due to costs involved
or publications, it is not recommended that more than one paper carry
such designation. The Anoka County Shopper is used only when an item
carries such impact that it is the feeling of the Council that full
coverage to all homes in the City should be made.
Item No. 5c - Selection of Official Depositories
The majority of our deposits will continue to be at First National
Bank of Anoka, however, it is recommended that a statement be included
in the motion to allow temporary investments to be made at other City
banks or savings institutions as determined by the Mayor and City Clerk.
Item NO. 5d - Review of Council By-Laws
There has been discussion to change the Order of Business to follow
the format we are now using. It appears this is working out the
best for council and public. An amendment is required to Ordinance
No. 25 to make the required change.
Agenda Information
January 4, 1983
Page 2
Item No. 5e - Approval of Official Bonds
A motion is needed to approve the following bonds:
Clerk/Treasurer (2) $25,000.00 each (1/1/83-12/31/83)
Employee Blanket $35,000.00 each ( " "
Item No. Sf - Special/Standing Committees
The Council By-Laws require only two Standing Committees, i.e. , Finance
and Personnel. Two councilmembers are required on each committee. There
may be additional residents appointed to each of the Standing Committees.
All other Special Committees mayor may not include councilmembers.
The Mayor shall select all committeemembers and their chairpersons,
however, the Council must move to approve the appointments.
Item No. 5g - Appointment of Commission Members
Planning and Zoning Commission
The only member who has reapplied for the Commission is D'arcy Bosell.
If her re-ap is accepted; and the Council would amend Ordinance NO. 11
to establish the Commission at 5 members, only one more will be needed.
Glen Rogers has informed me he has an application in the mail for a
position on the Commission; and Rich Schreiner has expressed a verbal
desire to serve. An ad was run in the Anoka Union and Shopper for
three weeks , with no response.
Park & Recreation Commission
The Park Board consists of seven members. With the resignation of
Jo Zillhardt, they have been running with a 6-member Commission.
There are two terms expiring this year, i.e. , Steve Nichols and
Glen Rogers. Steve has reapplied, therefore, two additional people
are needed to fill the Commission. An application has been received
from Dean Carlson (Nordeen Addition). An ad was run in the Union/
Shopper for three weeks.
Item No. 5h - Appointment of Commission Chairpersons
These appointments are made by the Mayor with approval by the City Council.
Item No. 6a - Harold Mayes/Variance
Mr. Mayes is requesting a variance to allow him to rebuild his home and
construct a garage on his lot. The home was substantially destroyed
by fire mid-summer, 1982. As you can see from the attached, his lot
is quite long, however, very shallow. He will require the:'lariances
for both the rear-yard setback of the house and the front yard setback
for the garage. Attached is the Planning and Zoning Commission
recommendation for approval. Jim Schrantz has checked this out as
far as floodplain requirements and has recommended approval. The
Shoreland Zoning provisions of Ordinance No. 8 require a 75' set-back
from the high-water mark on all dwelling units. Mr. Mayes drawings
indicate the house to be 80' from the "marshy" area, however, inasmuch
as there is nothing indicating the distance from the high water line,
a variance should be considered. A resolution will be prepared for
your use.
Ag~nda Information
January 4, 1983
Page 3
Item No. 6b - Assessment Policy/MSA Improvements
This will be prepared in time for the meeting on the 4th. As a result
of the heavy snowfall this week, the Council Secretary was snowbound
out-of-town and was not able to get the minutes from December 21
completed in time to allow Mr. Schrantz the opportunity to prepare
the policy in advance of the meeting.
Item No. 6c - Amendment-Ordinance No. 1 1 (P&Z)
Enclosed is a proposed amendment for Ordinance No. 11 , providing for
a 5-Member Commission instead of the presently adopted 7-Members.
A motion is needed for approval. Over the past few years it has become
extremely difficult to obtain applications from residents for this
Commission; this has resulted in the Commission functioning with 5
members more often than not. As a result, it is being suggested that
the Commission be formally established at 5 Members.
Item No. 7 - Junkyard Licenses
Notices were forwarded to all Licensees on November 23. TO-date, we
have only received renewal applications and fees from l)Anoka Auto
Wrecking and 2) Bob's Auto Parts. Licenses for all the other yards,
with the exception of Rite-Away (Imre) and Andover Auto Parts (Pears)
were reinstated for 1982. It would be my recommendation that another
letter go out giving those operators whose licenses expired 12/31/82,
until January 15 to reapply, after which time, they will be given to
the City Attorney for prosecution for operating without a license.
~ 01 ANDOVER
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING - JANUARY 4, 1983
MINUTES
The Regular Bi-Monthly Meeting of the Andover City Council was called to order by
Mayor Jerry Windschitl on January 4, 1983, 7:30 p.m., at the Andover City Hall, 1685
Crosstown Boulevard NW, Anoka, Minnesota.
Councilmen present: Elling, Knight, Lachinski, Orttel
Councilmen absent: None
Also present: City Attorney, William G. Hawkins; City Engineer, James
Schrantz; Planning and Zoning Commission Chairperson, d'Arcy
Bosell; City Clerk/A. Administrator, P. K. Lindquist; and
others
SWEARING-IN/MAYOR AND COUNCIL ELECT
Attorney Hawkins administered the "Oath of Office" to the new officials: Mayor Jerry
Windschitl, Councilman Jim Elling, and Councilman Mike Knight.
AGENDA APPROVAL
MOTION by Orttel, Seconded by Knight, that we adopt the Agenda as published with
the addition if Item 6d, Animal Control Contract. Motion carried unanimously.
MOTION by Lachinski, Seconded by Orttel, to suspend the rules. Motion carried
unanimous ly.
APPOINT ACTING MAYOR
MOTION by Lachinski, Seconded by Elling, to appoint an experienced Acting Mayor to the
pos1t1on of Acting Mayor for 1983, Ken Orttel.
VOTE ON MOTION: YES-Elling, Knight, Lachinski, Windschitl; PRESENT-Orttel
Motion carried.
DESIGNATION OF LEGAL NEWSPAPER
MOTION by Orttel, Seconded by Knight, that the ABC Newspapers be appointed as official
C1ty legal newspaper. Motion carried unanimously.
MOTION by Orttel, Seconded by Knight, to amend the Motion to include the Shopper.
Mot1on carried unanimously.
SELECTION OF OFFICIAL DEPOSITORIES
MOTION by Lachinski, Seconded by Orttel, that we designate the First National Bank of
Anoka as the official depository for the City of Andover and that the Mayor and City
Clerk be allowed to make investments in other banks and savings and loan institutions at
their discretion. Motion carried unanimously.
APPROVAL OF OFFICIAL BONDS
MOTION by Lachinski, Seconded by Knight, that we approve two bonds, one for 1/1/83 through
12/31/83 for Clerk/Treasurer in the amount of $25,000 and the Employee Blanket amount
of $35,000. Motion carried unanimously.
SPECIAL STANDING COMMITTEES
Mayor Windschitl made the following recommendations: Finance Committee, Knight, Chair,
and Orttel; Rules, Elling, Chair, and Knight; Capital Improvements Committee, Orttel,
Chair, and Knight; Personnel, Lachinski, Chair, and Orttel; Road Committee, Windschìtl,
Chair, and Lachinski; Hazardous Waste Committee, Elling and Windschitl.
MOTION by Orttel, Seconded by Lachinski, that we adopt the Committee appointments as
proposed by the Mayor. Motion carried unanimously.
Regular City Council Meeting
January 4, 1983 - Minutes
Page 2
REVIEW OF COUNCIL BY-LAWS
It was suggested the Rules Committee meet to look at the format of the Agenda, as the
Council has been using a revised Agenda for some time. Hearing the reports of
Commissions, Committees, and Staff at an earlier time was also suggested.
APPOINTMENT OF COMMISSION MEMBERS AND CHAIRPERSONS
It was noted that Glen Rogers has applied for the Planning and Zoning Commission and
d'Arcy Bosell has reapplied for her position. Because the Council was familiar with
the applicants, it was decided not to interview them.
MOTION by Orttel, Seconded by Elling, that d'Arcy Bosell be reappointed to the Planning
and Zoning Commission for a three-year term expiring December 31, 1985. Motion carried
unanimously.
MOTION by Lachinski, Seconded by Knight, that we appoint Glen Rogers to the Planning
and Zoning Commission for a three-year term to expire December 31, 1985. Motion carried
unanimously.
Mayor Windschitl suggested Ms. Bosell be reappointed as Chairperson of the Planning
Commission.
MOTION by Lachinski, Seconded by Orttel, to so move. Motion carried unanimously.
It was noted that Dean Carlson of Nordeen's Addition has applied for the Park and
Recreation Commission and that Steve Nichols has reapplied for his ~osition. Council
again decided not to interview the applicants based on theiracqua1n anceand recommenda-
tion of the applicants.
MOTION by Orttel, Seconded by Knight, that Steve Nichols be reappointed to the Park
Board for a three-year term. Motion carried unanimously.
MOTION by Lachinski, Seconded by Orttel, to appoint Dean Carlson to the Park Commission
tor a three-year term. Motion carried unanimously.
MOTION by Lachinski, Seconded by Orttel, to appoint Steve Nichols as Chairman of the
Park and Recreation Commission. Motion carried unanimously.
HAROLD MAYES/VARIANCE
Chairman Bosell reviewed the Planning Commission's recommendation to approve the variance
request of Harold Mayes to allow him to rebuild his home and construct a garage on his
lot. She explained one correction that under Ordinance 8, Section 4.33 is for the
construction of the house, and Section 4.05F is for the construction of the garage.
The Attorney advised that the City can vary from its own shore line zoning ordinance.
MOTION by Lachinski, Seconded by Orttel, enter a Resolution approving a variance request
by Harold Mayes from the provisions of Ordinance No.8, Section 6.02, for the construction
of garage and rebuilding of a residential structure partially destroyed by fire with the
correction both in the title and the first paragraph that Section 6.02 setbacks and
Section 4.33 and Section 4.05F for the construction of the garage. (See Resolution
Rl-83) Motion carried unanimously.
ASSESSMENT POLICY/MSA IMPROVEMENTS
Council reviewed the amendment to the special assessment policy for MSA streets and
county roads as presented by James Schrantz in his memo of January 3, 1983. Suggested
changes to the policy were:
First paragraph:Assessments upon unimproved property may be deferred until a designated
future year or until the subdivision of the property or the construction of improvements
thereon, either of which result in the access to the road by the said property.
Regular City Council Meeting
January 4, 1983 - Minutes
Page 3
(Assessment Policy/MSA Improvements, Continued)
Last paragraph: discussion was on the terms of the assessment when it becomes due as to
whether it should be payable in full or spread out for a period of time, discussing what
that time period should be.
Attorney Hawkins advised this policy would provide for the assessing of the property
and deferring it. The assessment is recorded with the County Recorder so anyone purchasing
the property would know of the assessment. The last paragraph is for discussion purposes
to determine the payment terms of the deferred assessment. Mr. Schrantz has shown it to
be payable immediately, but the Statutes allow to extend it and provide for payments
with or without interest up to a period not greater than 30 years from the time the
property is assessed. He recommended the policy include the payment terms of the
deferred assessment.
Council generally agreed that an assessment could be deferred for up to 15 years without
interest; and if the property hasn't been subdivided or improvements constructed thereon
at that time, the assessment would be cancelled. It was suggested to change the last
two paragraphs to:
These assessments can be deferred for up to 15 years without interest; and if
the property is not subdivided or the improvements are not constructed thereon
during that time, the assessment shall be cancelled.
On properties that are subdivided or on which improvements are constructed during
the period which results in the access to the road by said property, the assessments
will be due and payable over a period of five years from the date of the improvement
or subdivision with interest at the maximum interest rate allowed by law on special
assessments at that time.
Discussion was also on looking at this policy as it relates to arterial streets versus
collector streets and residential streets, questioning what would be assessed and when
the assessment would be payable on examples such as a 10-acre parcel with one residence
on it, along developments such as 173rd, or on the southern portion of Prairie Road.
Percy Tomlinson, Burnsville, Santa's Tree Farm - presented a petition signed by 41 taxpayers
opposing any assessment policy by the C1ty of Andover which assesses land acquisition
or construction costs for county roads or City thoroughfares exclusively to abutting
property owners, feeling such costs benefit the community at large and should be shared
by the community at large. He stated Hanson Boulevard is a high-speed thoroughfare for
the benefit of all of the community and is not much benefit, if at all, to those people
who adjoin the road.
Winslow Holasek, 1159 Andover Boulevard - stated this item was mentioned at the last
meet1ng to be on ton1ght's Agenda, but he asked why it wasn't published in the paper.
The Clerk explained the item was called to the Anoka Union after the Agenda was sent in,
but they apparently failed to publish it with the rest of the Agenda.
Mr. Holasek - can't believe the City is even considering an assessment policy for roads
that are thoroughfares and used by everyone in the City. The county has never assessed
for right of way for county roads. It has been pointed out that most of the adjoining
property owners don't want or don't need that road. He stated he doesn't want it or need
it, noting the frontages he already has along his property. He felt the City should
even reconsider constructing that road, that the City should not be assessing for county
roads, and also stated any deferred assessment is totally unacceptable. Mayor Windschitl
stated the road location and design is the county's choice.
Mr. Holasek - realized the county and City need a good north/south road, but why the City
would cons1der assessing the local abutting landowners to foot the bill for City or county
use is beyond him. It was also his opinion that there are no landlocked parcels involved.
Regular City Council Meeting
January 4, 1983 - Minutes
Page 4
(Assessment Policy/MSA Improvements, Continued)
Mayor Windschitl stated the costs are only being asked if the landowner uses the road.
He stated the Vosika property was clearly landlocked outside of an easement, and pointed
out parcels that are landlocked in the stretch between Crosstown and Contance Boulevards.
If the road isn't used, there is no assessment. The Mayor thought the county is clearly
going to build the road and didn't feel that was an item for discussion.
Mr. Holasek - stated maybe they should be before the county discussing this item, stating
the majority of the landowners opposed the construction of the road and the policy to
assess the right-of-way acquisition costs. Councilman Orttel explained the only
people getting an assessment would be those who develop their land within the next 15
years and use that road. If the property is not developed within 15 years or is developed
but the road is not used as an access, the assessment is canceled. The assessment is
deferred with no interest. This deferred assessment has a termination date.
Mr. Holasek - again stated that assessment is totally unacceptable. Councilman Orttel
asked if it would be more acceptable if the City acquired access rights along the road
so they would not be able to use that road. This policy is there would be an assessment
only if the property is developed and uses that road. Otherwise there would be no
assessment. Mayor Windschitl also noted any other developer in the City is required to
pay 100 percent of the road costs and then dedicate those roads to the City.
Mr. Holasek - stated if they are fronting on a county road, they do not pay for the use
of that road. Chairman Bosell stated the City does not allow the developer to front
lots onto the county road. Councilman Lachinski also reviewed the county's general
unwritten policies relating to access along county roads. He felt everyone's argument is
they are not getting a benefit and should not be assessed, and stated the Council is
agreeing with that by deferring the assessment until such time as the property is
developed and the road is used in that development. In this instance, the road is
opening up some property that wouldn't otherwise be able to be subdivided.
Mr. Holasek - stated assessments were not made along other county roads in the City,
and it was the City's prerogative to acquire the right of way in this proejct. If the
county would have purchased the right of way in this project, it would not have been
assessed. Councilman Lachinski stated his position is there should be no assessment
if there is no direct benefit. If the property owner takes advantage of the road and
gets a direct benefit by having to construct less road when subdividing the property,
then it is justified to assess that property.
Mr. Holasek - didn't believe that policy was right.
Walter Vosika, 1414 Bunker Lake Boulevard - did not want Hanson Boulevard and doesn't
care for it. W1th the dump across from his property, he didn't feel people would want
to build on his property. Secondly, his assessment of $10,933 would break him, which
would be due if his property is improved, fearing the installation of sanitary sewer,
which is a City decision, would trigger that assessment. Also, the trucks to and from
the landfill will now be using that road, which he didn't feel would benefit him because
of the slu4ge and debris that is generated. Mr. Vosika also stated the notice to acquire
his land stated the road is for public use. If his land is taken as a public use, why
is he being assessed for a benefit. He stated the 40 acres he is being assessed for is
a big swamp which is kind of a game reserve and which he didn't think was fair. He
felt the ones that really benefit from the road are the dump trucks. He stated the
purchase price for the property from the landfill was considerably higher than what
the rest of the people received, and also stated an individual received $18,000 for
approximately four acres of land.
. Mayor Windschitl aSKed Mr. Vosika if he would be willing to sign a document of non-access
onto Hanson Boulevard for that property. That road opened up 1300 feet of property,
asking if his preference would be never to have an access onto Hanson. The Mayor stated
·he would have no problem with eliminating the assessment if such an agreement would be
sirn~d . Several in the audience argued against that suggestion citing reasons why it is
un a1r.
Regular City Council Meeting
January 4, 1983 - Minutes
Page 5
(Assessment Policy/MSA Improvements, Continued)
Mr. Vosika - stated he is retired, does not have the money to pay the assessment, and
would sign such an agreement, feeling whoever gets the property after him should have
the option of opening it up again. Councilman Lachinski stated the policy being
proposed does the same thing, that no money is payable unless the property is subdivided
which results in the use of the road. The policy is not meant to apply for sanitary
sewer and water improvements. Councilman Orttel noted the reason Mr. Vosika's
assessment is higher is because he is industrial property. The guidelines for the
special assessment calls for the exclusion of any property that is undevelopable entirely.
So the chance of Mr. Vosika paying an assessment unless the property is developed is
virtually nill. Attorney Hawkins noted that once the assessment is levied, the City
does not have the right to go back and change the policy on that project unless there
is an error or omission in the original assessment.
Mr. Vosika - stated the City of Andover has an easement over his land and there is also
a utility easement over it, asking why aren't they paying for the assessment; he
shouldn't be assessed at all. Councilman Lachinski stated they didn't purchase the
land but only the right to use it. Mayor Windschitl again explained the policy that there
will be no assessment if the land remains undeveloped. If commercial lots are sold on
the Vosika property, then the assessment would be due and payable. The assessment
would be filed against the property with the language of the deferral which cancels at
the end of 15 years if no development takes place within that time period.
Bob Englekin~, partner in Santa's Tree Farm - asked the future plans of the road such
as w1dening 1t to a four-lane road. Council discussion was if a frontage road is used
and Hanson Boulevard is not used as an access, there would be no assessment. It was
generally felt there would be no physical way to widen the road to four lanes without
moving the power poles. And they do not envision any type of limited access freeway, so
some accesses would still be allowed.
Mr. Engleking - stated although this policy is certainly an improvement over the one
or1g1nally proposed, he still felt it is missing the point. If all the property was
developed, those property owners would pay the entire City's cost to purchase the right
of way. He stated there is a lot more benefit going to the entire community, and the
people who are benefitting are not being taxed for it. The benefit is not primarily with
the landowners if they happen to develop it. The major benefit is that the City and
county need that main thoroughfare for the entire population. For the Council to set a
policy to tax a few wHen it is benefitting an entire City is in error. Mayor Windschitl
stated the Council is in agreement with that philosophy, and that is why no constructjion
costs are being assessed. Councilman Orttel stated there has been a long-standing
policy in this City not to subsidize developers, and it won't in this case either, which
is the bottom line of the policy. The policy is simply if someone develops the land,
they pay their fair share. If Hanson Boulevard were not there, the developer would have
to build that road himself, pay for it, and dedicate it to the City. All the City is
charging is a fraction of the total costs of the road. The payment for the rest of
the road is paid indirectly by everyone through the gasoline taxes.
Mr. Engleking - didn't feel that six people on one mile of road should share the costs
of the road when 10,000 people are going to benefit. Councilman Orttel stated they only
share if they are developers, and then only paying six percent of what it would cost if
the road were not there.
Mr. Engleking - understood the State reimburses the City for a good portion of the costs
for acquiring the land, stating it doesn't seem to be logical that the City is getting
paid twice for the land. Council discussion was the City is reimbursed from the
State for land costs only, not acquisition costs. The money the City gets from the
State goes to the property owners for their land, and the assessments are to pay back
part of the General Fund and part into the State Aid funds to be used for future State
Aid acquisition or construction.
Regular City Council Meeting
January 4, 1983 - Minutes
Page 6
(Assessment Policy/MSA Improvements, Continued)
Bill Hupp, 1650 Andover Boulevard - stated nothing was known about this policy when the
land was be1ng acqu1red, and there is no way to incorporate this into future costs and
what their land may be worth. To him the key is who benefits, and he felt the City
benefits three-fold because it is an arterial roadway, noting disadvantages of having
a 55-mph road next to his property. He also felt the City owes something to the
adjoining property owners because it is their land. He was paid about one quarter of what
the dump was paid, and he felt he was doing the City a favor by not pursuing it any
further. He felt the county and State have paid their share of the costs for this road,
and now the City should pay its share because it is a benefit for the City as a whole.
He also reviewed the inequities he saw as to what was paid to and what is proposed as an
assessment for the landfill area. The road benefits others because they will be able
to get home 15 to 20 minutes faster. He also expressed frustration over the valuations
placed on the properties, again feeling there was inequities in the procedure and feeling
the City is gaining all the way around in this situation. Councilman Orttel noted
at the last meeting there was discussion of adjusting Mr. Hupp's assessment because of
the lowl and. The value on his property was decided by court-appointed appraisers, not
the City.
Mr. HUPt - explained his land was reappraised at the hearing at one-half of what it was
or1gina ly appraised, stating he was unaware of the procedures at that time. Councilman
Orttel stated the reason he got a lower price is because his land is low and not usable.
For that same reason, there would be a lower or no assessment on that land. And if it
is developed some day, it will be charged.
Mr. Hupp - stated it is not swamp land, but he was given only one-fourth of what the
person next door got and only one-half of what was originally assessed. Counci lman
Lachinski stated this was discussed at the previous hearing, and it was agreed there
are some inequities that have to be worked out. Tonight's meeting is to discuss the
-policy, not the inequities in the acquisition process. Mr. Hupp has been paid for his
property; and if he does not develop his property for the next 15 years, there will be
no assessment.
Mr. Hup~ - again argued against the policy, still feeling it is wrong based on the
1nequ1t1es in his case. He felt the tax assessment for this road should not be limited
to developers. The road is being built and everyone in the City benefits.
Council discussion was that the policy is to pay for the land acquisition and assess only
if the land is developed. The other 95 percent of the road is paid for indirectly by
everyone through gasoline tax dollars. The assessment question will be addressed at
the public hearing on January 18. The question of the feasibility and need of the road
was determined by the county. The council is trying to adopt a reasonable assessment
policy and yet not let someone take advantage of the fact that there is a new road past
their property. The policy was again explained, noting if benefit is derived, six or
seven percent of the cost of the road will be assessed. Assessment policies for MSA
streets of other cities were briefly reviewed.
Mr. HUh~ - understood the policy and the process, but still didn't believe assessing
only t ose along the road was a workable, reasonable solution. He felt the proper
philosophy was to look at it from a beneficial standpoint, which the City as a whole
benefits and feeling it is a detriment to those adjoining the road. He felt it would be
a more via51e solution to raise the mill rate for the entire City or use the same policy
as on previous MSA projects.
Ed Hamilton, 6615 Highway 10, Anoka - has property adjacent to City hall and asked how
much it would raise the mill rate if the entire $80,000 proposed for right-of-way
acquisition for the next extension of Hanson Boulevard were put on the tax rolls.
Regular City Council Meeting
January 4, 1983 - minutes
Page 7
(Assessment Policy/MSA Improvements, Continued)
Council discussion was it would raise the rate approximately two mills, which is a
significant amount considering the City's total mill levy is less than 13 mills. And
the reason Andover's mill levy is low is because the City's position has been to make
everyone pay for their own streets and developers pay their own way.
Mr. Hamilton - stated from all the input at the meetings, it appears the people do not
want it. A few are being penalized, and he felt the Council should take into considera-
tion the wishes of the people.
Dick Schneider, 1343 Andover Boulevard NW - congratulated the new Councilmen on their
positions. He then stated the proposed policy is better than the original one, but
he is still opposed to any assessment for thoroughfare streets. Hanson Boulevard is
a thoroughfare street planned over 15 years ago. He reminded the Council that when
campaigning, the promise was to listen to the people. The people are now talking, and
he hoped the Council is hearing them.
Wally Laptuta, 15026 Crosstown Boulevard - is agalnstwhat the Council is trying to do,
not see1ng why they should pay for th1S. He felt the City is benefitting and is against
it.
Ann Sikora - is not affected by Hanson Boulevard, but explained for the constrution of
Un1versity Extension, before they could sell a 30, they had to give the land free for
right of way. Also when 58 came through, they also donated all the right of way. So
she didn't understand why these people want to tax everyone for Hanson Boulevard.
She didn't want to be taxed for it when she is only two mi}.es from Highway 65.
Mr. Vosika - asked the Council to look into a few things for the hearing on the 18th,
those be1ng why the dump is called a residential area, why his assessment is over one-
fourth of the total amount for that stretch of road, and the policy of assessing lowland.
He also asked if the assessment will be reduced so much each year during the assessment
period. Mayor Windschitl stated it will not be reduced under the present policy, but
no interest will accrue.
Marcel Fisber 7 , Drake Street, Hartfiel Estates - because there seems to be a lot
o peop e w 0 are unhappy w1th the part 0 Hanson oulevard already constructed, he
asked what is the proper procedure to have the next extension re-examined. It was his
opinion that the City's costs for the road should be assessed among all the residents
of Andover. Discussion was it is the county's plan to extend the road all the way to
St. Francis and that any re-examination of thatproposal would have to be brought up
at the county level.
Mr. Engleking - asked if the property owner will be reimbursed for the detriment factor
of the road, as on their farm they know of the problems that will be incurred with the
road such as stolen trees, salt on the trees from the road, etc. Council noted those
factors are taken care of in the acquisition process.
Mr. Hupp - stated those factors were not considered in the acquisition process of his
property, but strictly on a set value basis.
Mr. Holasek - stated those items may be taken care of in the acquisition process, but
they may not be taken care of to the individual's satisfaction, relating his experience
with loss of trees through a similiar process on Prairie Road. He also stated he would
agree to limited access on the road, but preferred the road not be built at this point,
noting the nuisance value of such as road as along Prairie Road. He asked if the City
would be willing to pay for limited access onto the road. Mayor Windschitl stated it
would be something the Council could could consider when acquiring the right of way.
Regular City Council Meeting
January 4, 1983 - Minutes
Page 8
(Assessment Policy/MSA Improvements, Continued)
Mr. Holasek - again expressed the opinion that no costs should be assessed for county
roads. He stated the question is is the City going to be fair about this or are they
going to force many of the people into litigation.
Recess at 9:40 p.m.; reconvene at 10:06 p.m.
Council again reviewed the proposed amendment to the General Assessment Policy and
the Guidelines suggested for special assessments on MSA streets and county roads and
applied the policy to various situations. In discussing the situations which would
trigger an assessment. Attorney Hawkins stated the Council may set specific terms in
the deferral resolution levying the assessment that notifies the property owner.
Something would trigger this process such as obtaining a building permit, final plat
approval, lot split, or metes and bounds division. He felt there would be no problem
with subdivision, as that is defined in the subdivision ordinance. He also felt the key
to the policy was street access onto the MSA or county road. Once a dri veway or street
accesses onto the MSA or county road, the assessment would be payable.
Discussion was then on the last paragraph of the Guidelines for Special Assessments,
access to State, County or City Arterial, Collector or MSA Streets. Mayor Windschitl
argued the way it is written, Mr. Scherer along Hanson and Andover Boulevards would not
be able to divide·hts property into 2~-acre lots which would front and would have direct
access onto Hanson Boulevard. He was not necessarily in agreement with the changes
proposed in that last paragraph. Councilman Orttel stated the access policy is in the
ordinance and felt it should not be in the assessment policy. It was generally agreed
to remove the last paragraph relating to the access onto said roads from the Guidelines.
Under the paragraphs of Developable Lands, the Council questioned the inclusion of "not
farmable" land in the guidelines. It was generally agreed to delete those words to
state: "Property owners with lands that are unbuildab le can request that the City
Council...", noting that it has been the policy not to assess sod farms because they
are not buildable and because every attempt has been made to encourage farming in the
City.
Council reviewed the changes as proposed in the beginning of the discussion (See Pages 2
and 3 of these Minutes). It was asked if this would mean that Mr. Scherer would be
assessed at this time since his driveway was changed from Andover Boulevard to Hanson
Boulevard which results in the use of the road. It was generally felt the policy refers
to subdivision or construction of improvements which require access to the road and
would not apply to moving a driveway location.
There was some discussion about defining the word "improvement", with Mr. Hawkins stating
that would have to come back to the Council with terms and conditions set out in the
deferral resolution with some language that the Council would determine whether or not
there has been some "improvement" and when the deferral comes off. Mayor Windschitl
suggested the Attorney and Engineer review this item further to clarify what would
trigger the assessment and a definition of improvement as to what activity would
constitute construction of improvements.
For a definition of construction of improvements, Mr. Hawkins suggested the deferral
come off any time an individual performs an activity on the property that requires a
permit under the ordinances of the City, County, or State. Council generally agreed
to that proposal.
It was also suggested if a portion of a parcel is improved, only a partial assessment
would become due against the portion of the parcel using the road, possibly charging for
a typical lot size in that area. The Attorney suggested stating if the subdivision or
Regular City Council Meeting
January 4, 19S3 - Minutes
Page 9
(Assessment Policy/MSA Improvements, Continued)
improvement is on less than the entire parcel, the porportion of the assessment shall
be based upon a typical minimum lot size for that zoning district.
For a definition of construction of improvements, Mr. Hawkins suggested the deferral
come off any time an individual performs an activity on the property that requires a
permit under the ordinances of the City, County, or State. Council generally agreed
to that proposal.
MOTION by Elling, Seconded by Knight, that we table it to the next meeting and have
Attorney Hawkins revise it and correct it as we have discussed. Motion carried
unanimously. Mayor Windschitl stated this item will be taken up ahead of the Public
Hearings on January 18.
AMENDMENT - ORDINANCE NO. 11 (Planning and Zoning Commission)
Mayor Windschitl stated because a Planning Commission is supposed to try to get a
diversification of views, it would be better to maintain the seven-member Commission
rather than reducing it to five. Plus this Commission will be rewriting the ordinances,
which will require additional work and ideas. He suggested making an additional effort
to solicit Commission members at this time; and if that effort is not successful, then
consider reducing the size of the Commission. Council generally agreed, noting a
similiar situation exists for the Park and Recreation Commission.
The Clerk was directed to place additional ads in the Union and Shopper for P & Z and
Park & Recreation Commissioners, placing a larger-sized ad for both Commissions in the
same ad.
ANIMAL CONTROL SERVICES
MOTION by Orttel, Seconded by Lachinski, that the City of Andover enter into a contract
with White Bear Animal Control, Inc., for the control of animals in the City and
authorize the Mayor and Clerk to enter into the contract upon review by the City
Attorney. Motion carried unanimously.
JUNKYARD LICENSE APPROVALS
The Clerk explained notices were forwarded to all licensees on November 23 by first-
class mail; however, only two renewal applications and fees have been received to
date. Discussion was on the problem, with the Attorney suggesting another letter be sent
by certified mail to those operators who have not reapplied. The Clerk was also
directed to send all notices to junkyard operators by certified mail in the future.
ANDOVER VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT
Mayor Windschitl stated he has talked with John Peterson of Good Value Homes, who has
indicated they will be proceeding with the development of Northglen II with single family
residences. The Mayor stated they are willing to negotiate proposals for a park with
Rosella Sonsteby for a larger park in the area and are also willing to negotiate property
for the proposed fire station location on Bunker Lake Boulevard just south of Crosstown
Boulevard. Chief Stone stated he would gather the information about that proposed site
so those negotiations can begin immediately.
GLATT - ORDINANCE IRREGULARITIES
The Clerk reported the Building Inspector went to inspect the Glatt property off 177th
Avenue in Section 3, but Mr. Glatt refused to allow him to inspect the property without
a search warrant. She asked if the Council wanted to order the search warrant to be
issued.
Regular City Council Meeting
January 4, 1983 - Minutes
Page 10
(Glatt - Ordinance Irregularities, Continued)
Discussions noted that the owners are using a chemical toilet, which is not contrary
to the ordinances; but the wastewater from the sinks, etc., is apparently running onto
the ground. There was a complaint from a resident about the situation but was sub-
sequently withdrawn. It was suggested the Building Inspector contact the Anoka County
Health Department to see what can be done and if they have any authority in such
situations.
ATTORNEY REPORT - SENIOR CITIZEN BUILDING/HEIDELBERGER/ROUSE PROPERTY
Attorney Hawkins reported he met with the bonding company and the engineers yesterday
morning, that the contract with Allstate Builders has been terminated pursuant to the
provisions of the contract, that the bonding company will take over the project and
has requested a set of plans and specifications, and that the engineers have provided
the bonding company with three or four construction companies that would be willing to
complete the Senior Citizen Building. It is expected the project could be completed
in about two months. No decisions have been made on liquidated damages at this time.
Attorney Hawkins also informed the Council he has met with the County Attorney on the
Heidelberger/Rouse situation and on what can be done about it. They are going to be
meeting with Mr. Rouse and his son to determine what is happening and to consider what
courses of action can be taken. The County would like the City to join in with anything,
with the County indicating they would carry the bulk of any litigation. It appears
there is no more dumping out there, as Mr. Rouse got a restraining order two weeks ago.
Now the question is the existing tires, blocked fire lanes, etc. They are trying to
get Mr. Rouse to come up with a plan, but it appears he doesn't have enough money to
do anything. Mr. Rouse is trying to interest investors to buy the machine and start
shredding the tires. Mr. Hawkins explained that Cecil Heidelberger has no legal interest
in the property at this point, reviewing the events that have taken place in recent
months. TAe County wants the City to be named as plaintiff in any action that they
would commence under their Solid Waste Management or under the tire ordinance. The
problem with the situation is that Mr. Rouse does not have enough money to clean up
the problem and Mr. Heidelberger has no legal right to do it.
APPROVAL OF CLAIMS
MOTION by Lachinski, Seconded by Orttel, that we approve Checks Numbered 6142 through
6157 ln the amount of $597,875.71. Motion carried unanimously.
MOTION by Orttel, Seconded by Knight, to adjourn. Motion carried unanimously.
Meeting adjourned at 11:22 p.m.
Resepctfully submitted,
,
\\~~~ph2h-'\~:'~~-_.
Recording Secretary
-