City Minutes

Mayor Glenn Thompson called the October 12, 2011 meeting of the Nicollet City Council to order at 6:30 p.m. in the council chambers. 

In addition to Mayor Thompson; Council members Steve Johnson, Cory Johnson, Fred Froehlich and Tom Hoffman were present.  Others in attendance included:  John Graupman (Bolton & Menk) and Michael Koob (Ledger).  Staff present:  Vanessa Drill and Gary Johnson. 

The agenda was approved on a motion which was made by C. Johnson, which was seconded by F. Froehlich, and which carried with all voting in favor.

The minutes of the September 12, 2011 regular meeting was approved on a motion which was made by S.  Johnson, which was seconded by T. Hoffman, and which carried with all voting in favor.

The bills totaling $13,010.80 were approved on a motion which was made by C. Johnson, which was seconded by F. Froehlich, and which carried with all voting in favor.

John Graupman with Bolton and Menk presented requested changes made to the DRAFT Pretreatment Agreements for the Significant Industrial Users from the September 7^th meeting.  The changes were noted:
1)  Nicollet Foods – Requested samples be taken Monday thru Friday of each week with a time of 8:00 a.m. by a composite sample.  Graupman recommended that it shouldn’t be noted when a sample will be taken and the sampling should be a grab sample.  The council agreed with Graupman
2)  Schmidt’s Meat Market samples only the line from the kill room floor.  G. Johnson noted that the kill room is serviced by one sewer line and the rest of the facility is serviced by two other lines.  The Council agreed that the three sewer lines should be combined into one and will allow nine months to get the sewer lines combined.
3)  George’s City Meats – No changes
4)  Hewitt Machine and Manufacturing – No changes
Graupman will make the changes to the agreements and submit the final documents to the council and businesses.

Clerk noted that Year Round Comfort is in violation of the Development Agreement between the developer and the City.  Year Round Comfort is to supply financial information on one of the tenants and to show a for sale sign on the property that is located under the Tax Increment Financing within the School Estates Development.  The council advised the clerk to seek the advice of the city attorney.

Gary Johnson:
1)  Reported that Year Round Comfort had Jetter Clean out to jet the lines in the first two units of the development and it was noted that half inch gravel was pushed down the sewer line which will cause damage to the sewer pumps.  The estimated cost to get the gravel removed from the lines is $2,000.  The council noted that Year Round Comfort should be billed for these services.
2)  Supplied a water movement report
3)  Noted that residents were pushing leaves into the streets
4)  Reported that rocking of the alleyways are complete for the year
5)  Shared a quote from Dakota Pumps on replacing pump rings in the lift station
6)  Stated a cost of $1,500 per cleaning for Lift Station 2 is needed on a yearly basis

The snow removal quote request from Chris Krohn was discussed.  G Johnson stated there are other options of piling snow than School Estates which Krohn wanted to use as a bargaining tool.  The council denied the request of removing snow on the private roads in the School Estates Development.

The petition request on the Mara Tonka Pond was readdressed.  It was decided to get the city attorney involved. 

A motion to seek legal advisement on the manure spill into the Mara Tonka Pond was approved on a motion which was made by F. Froehlich, which was seconded by C. Johnson, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

Brainstorming on a “junk car” ordinance was discussed.  Council gave the Clerk their ideas and the Clerk will work on a draft ordinance. 

MUTCD (manual on uniform traffic control devices) Sign Retro Reflectivity Policy was approved on a motion made by C. Johnson, which was seconded by T. Hoffman, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

Resolution 10-12-11 – Decertifying Individual Parcels Within Tax Increment Financing District No. 1-8 was approved on a motion made by C. Johnson, which was seconded by T. Hoffman, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

The following building and zoning permits were approved on a motion made by T. Hoffman, which was seconded by C. Johnson, and which carried with all voting in favor:
                                Building Permits:
                                1)  Bill Beranek, 609 Pine St., Roofing, $5,000
                                2)  George Poehler, 430 3^rd St., Roofing, Value Unknown
                                3)  George’s City Meats, 430 3^rd St., Roofing, $5,000
                                4)  Ron Giefer, Jr., 701 Birch St., Roofing, $5,500
                                5)  Denny Hewitt, 601 6^th St., Roofing and Siding, $7,000
                                6)  Brandon Kettner, 704 8^th St., Roofing and
                                     Siding, $11,445        

It was noted that the November 23, 2011 meeting will be changed to November 30, 2011. 

Reminders of the upcoming, meetings were noted:
                        1)  November 2, 2011, 6:30 p.m., 1^st November meeting
                        2)  November 30, 2011, 6:30 p.m., 2^nd November meeting
                        3)  December 14, 2011, 6:15 p.m., TNT Hearing
                        4)  December 14, 2011, 6:30 p.m., ONLY meeting

With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:00 p.m.
__________________________
Vanessa Drill, City Clerk/Treasurer

Mayor Glenn Thompson called the September 21, 2011 meeting of the Nicollet City Council to order at 6:30 p.m. in the council chambers.  

In addition to Mayor Thompson; Council members Steve Johnson and Cory Johnson were present.  Councilmen; Fred Froehlich and Tom Hoffman were absent.  Others in attendance included:  Chris Krohn and Michael Koob (Ledger).  Staff present:  Vanessa Drill and Tom Tews. 

The agenda was approved on a motion which was made by S. Johnson, which was seconded by C. Johnson, and which carried with all voting in favor.

The minutes of the August 31, 2011 regular meeting and minutes from the September 7, 2011 special meeting was approved on a motion which was made by C. Johnson, which was seconded by S. Johnson, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

The bills totaling $51,024.10 were approved on a motion which was made by S. Johnson, which was seconded by C. Johnson, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

Chris Krohn approached the council regarding snow removal on the private streets within the School Estates Development.  The City has stated in the past that the streets are too narrow to be plowed.  Last year the city plowed the streets to gain access to the vacant lots to pile snow.  Krohn is requesting a quote from the city on snow removal on the private streets, with a possible discount when the city is using the vacant lots to pile snow.   The council tabled this item until the October 12^th meeting.

Tom Tews:
1)  Reported that the maintenance department will start flushing the hydrants within the week
2)  Supplied a water movement report

Thompson and S Johnson updated the council on their liaison meeting with Nicollet County.

Form SC-10 – stating the annual benefit level for 2010 is $1,175 of the Nicollet Fire Relief Assn with a 2011 required contribution of $.00 was approved on a motion, which was made by C. Johnson, which was seconded by S. Johnson, which carried with all voting in favor. 

The following building and zoning permits were approved on a motion made by C. Johnson, which was seconded by S. Johnson, and which carried with all voting in favor:
                                Building Permits:
                                1)  Trinity Lutheran Church, 604 Main St., Reroof Church, $62,000
                                2)  Charles Epper, 415 5^th St., Reroof, $3,500
                                3)  Dale Selby, 221 Cedar St., Reroof and Siding, 30,000
                                4)  Walter Hanish, 920 Hillside Lane, Siding, $1,500
                                5)  Pat Anton, 420 3^rd St., Reroof, $5,000
                                6)   Gary Thompson, 218 & 222 Walnut St., Reroof and Siding, $11,000
                                7)  Brad Wurtzburger, 812 Hillside Ct., Reroof, $Value Unknown
                                8)  Steve Olson, 827 6^th St., Siding, $14,265
                                9)  Stan Rosin, 815 Cedar St., Detached Garage, $18,000
                              10)  Rick Hulke, 708 8^th St., Siding, $2,200
                              11)  Chris Shay, 813 Hillside Ct., Reroof, $3,500
                              12)  Raymond & Becky Stoecker, 904 8^th St., Windows, $1,000
                              13)  Theresa Kampa, 1016 3^rd St., Reroof Garage, $3,000
                              14)  Wayne Whitmore & Jane Greathouse, 501 6^th St.,
                                      Remodel Kitchen, $6,000
                              15)  Scot & Rhiannon Osborne, 805 Nicollet Ave., Reroof, $10,500
                                Zoning Permits:
                               1)  Stan Rosin, 815 Cedar St., Detached Garage, $18,000
                               2)  Rick & Terri Schugel, 103 Burg Ave., Fence, $4,000

Reminders of the upcoming, meetings were noted:
                        1)  October 12, 2011, 6:30 p.m., ONLY October meeting
                        2)  November 2, 2011, 6:30 p.m., 1^st November meeting
                        3)  November 23, 2011, 6:30 p.m., 2^nd November meeting

With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:05 p.m.
__________________________
Vanessa Drill, City Clerk/Treasurer

Mayor Glenn Thompson called the August 31, 2011 meeting of the Nicollet City Council to order at 6:30 p.m. in the council chambers. 

In addition to Mayor Thompson; Council members Steve Johnson, Fred Froehlich, Cory Johnson and Tom Hoffman were present.  Others in attendance included Legion Members; Steve Ardolf, Del Vulcan, John Callquist, Delores Gleason, Elmer Gleason, Bernice Thompson, Dick Kosek, Lou Compart, Bruce Connelly and Boyd Kramer.  Michael Koob (Ledger), Harry Jenness, Grant Poehler, Vanessa Drill and Gary Johnson were also present.

The agenda with one addition was approved on a motion which was made by C. Johnson, which was seconded by F. Froehlich, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

The minutes of the August 10, 2011 regular meeting was approved on a motion which was made by T. Hoffman, which was seconded by C. Johnson, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

The bills totaling $30,427.04 were approved on a motion which was made by C. Johnson, which was seconded by F. Froehlich, and which carried with all voting in favor.

Harry Jenness a soon to be retired building inspector from the City of West St Paul was present to discuss offering his services as the city Building Inspector, currently the City contracts with the City of St Peter.  Mr. Jenness is qualified in building, plumbing and mechanical inspections, planning/zoning and plan review.  He is a certified building official and is a third party inspector for the State of Minnesota for manufactured homes.  The council directed Jenness to put a proposal together of his services and present it to the Clerk.

Legion and Auxiliary members were present to express their concern regarding not having a place for Friendship Days if the city moves forward with the addition to the city hall building.  Froehlich informed the group that the city will need to vacate the north city shop building because it will no longer be insurable.  Thompson noted the plans for an addition would not extend the building any further to the south so there should still be more than enough room for the celebration.

Grant Poehler presented plans for the possible addition and the council and staff discussed the interior layout.  Poehler will meet with an architect to update the plans of possible changes and then will provide a spec list so the project can be bid.   

Gary Johnson:
            1)  Shared the results from the Mara Tonka Pond sludge that was tested – the
            results show high levels of fecal chloroform.  The issue will be addressed through
            the county
            2)  Stated the salt and sand bunker frame is up     

Councilman Steve Johnson:
            1)  Requested that he not be paid for missing the August 10^th meeting 
            and any missed meetings going forward
            2)  Shared his report from the Nicollet Rural City Association Joint Powers meeting
            3)  Stated he received complaints about the grass not being mowed on the vacant 
            lots out in the School Estates Development.  Council directed the clerk to make a
            courtesy phone call to the owners regarding this issue. 

A junk car ordinance was discussed and will be tabled until the October 12 meeting. 

A 5-year proposal from Abdo, Eick & Meyers for auditing services was approved on a motion which was made by C. Johnson, which was seconded by T. Hoffman, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

The Council discussed the 2012 Preliminary Budget.  Resolution 08-31-11 – Adopting the Proposed the 2012 Budget was approved on a motion which was made by F. Froehlich, which was seconded by S. Johnson, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

A Preliminary Tax Levy for 2012 totaling $233,659.04 for the purposes of General Fund – $72,900 and Debt Service – $160,759.04 was considered by the Council.  Resolution 08-31-11A: Adopting the Proposed 2012 Tax Levy was approved on a motion which was made by C. Johnson, which was seconded by T. Hoffman, and which carried with all voting in favor.

A Truth in Taxation Hearing date of December 14 @ 6:15 p.m. has been set regarding the 2012 Budget and Tax Levy. 

The following building and zoning permits were approved on a motion made by S. Johnson, which was seconded by T. Hoffman, and which carried with all voting in favor:
                                Building Permits:
                                1)  Dana & Cathy Potter, 702 Ash St., Reroof, $6,500
                                2)  Fred & Diane Froehlich, 406 Heideman Ave., Reroof/Siding, $10,000
                                3)  Wendell Wenner, 829 Hillside Ct., Reroof /Siding, $10,000
                                4)  Charles Otto, 409 Elm St., Addition to Garage, $4,000
                                5)  Scott & Kim Stevensen, 215 Pine St., Reroof/Siding/Screen Porch, 
                                $29,600
                                6)  John Hermel, 520 3^rd St., Reroof, $6,000
                                7)  Roxann Dorn, 431 Main St., Reroof/Siding, $14,000
                                8)  Grant Gappa, 431 3^rd St., Reroof, $6,000
                                9)  Stacey Steen, 928 Hillside Ln., Reroof, $6,000
                                10)  Geraldine Leonard, 600 3^rd St., Siding, $2,890
                                11)  Mark Zins, 438 4^th St., Siding, $8,000
                                12)  Nicollet Rural City Fire Dept., 402 3^rd St., Reroof, $46,479
                                Zoning Permits:
                                1)  Charles Otto, 409 Elm St., Addition to Garage, $4,000
                                2)  Scott & Kim Stevensen, 215 Pine St., Screen Porch, $Val Unknown

Reminders of the upcoming, meetings were noted:
                        1)  September 7, 2011, 6:00 p.m., Special Meeting with SIU’s
                        2)  September 21, 2011, 6:30 p.m., ONLY September meeting
                        3)  October 12, 2011, 6:30 p.m., ONLY October meeting

With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:40 p.m.
_________________________

Vanessa Drill, City Clerk/Treasurer

Mayor Glenn Thompson called the August 10, 2011 meeting of the Nicollet City Council to order at 6:30 p.m. in the council chambers. 

In addition to Mayor Thompson; Council members Fred Froehlich, Cory Johnson and Tom Hoffman were present.  Councilman Steve Johnson was absent.  Others in attendance included Ruth Klossner (Ledger), Vanessa Drill and Gary Johnson. 

The agenda with one addition was approved on a motion which was made by C. Johnson, which was seconded by F. Froehlich, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

The minutes of the July 20, 2011 regular meeting was approved on a motion which was made by C. Johnson, which was seconded by F. Froehlich, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

The bills totaling $78,813.16 were approved on a motion which was made by C. Johnson, which was seconded by T. Hoffman, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

Gary Johnson supplied a water movement report.

It was noted a new part-time employee was hired Brian Mensing started work on August 8. 

Froehlich addressed that a junk car ordinance should be in place, as there are a lot of complaints around town.  The council discussed the issue and agreed they should move forward with this issue.  Ideas will be brought back to the next council meeting and an ordinance can be drafted. 

Froehlich noted the clerk and himself met with Representative Terry Morrow regarding the Sign Retro Reflectivity Requirements that is being mandated to all cities and townships to change their traffic signs.  This requirement can become a financial burden to all the cities and townships. 

Form SC-11 – stating the annual benefit level for 2011 is $1,300 of the Nicollet Fire Relief Assn with a 2012 required contribution of $.00 was approved on a motion, which was made by F. Froehlich, which was seconded by T. Hoffman, which carried with all voting in favor. 

The following building and zoning permits were approved on a motion made by C. Johnson, which was seconded by F. Froehlich, and which carried with all voting in favor:
                Building Permits:
                1)  Mike & Alesia Slater, 1001 9^th St., Shed, $1,600
                2)  Mike Mans, 821 Nicollet Ave., Reroof, $9,000
                3)  Community Insurance, 311 Ash St., Reroof, $2,700
                4)  Chris Hulke, 712 8^th St., Reroof, $7,600
                5)  Andy Emich, 204 4^th St., Deck, $2,880
                6)  Pat Anton, 420 3^rd St, Reroof, $5,000
                7)  Mary Giefer, 428 4^th St., Siding, $7,880
                8)  Dave Wagner, 804 Nicollet Ave., Siding, $3,200 
                9)  Grant Gappa, 431 3^rd St., Siding, $5,000
                10)  Tim & Susan Compart, 511 4^th St., Siding, $5,100
                Zoning Permit:
                1)  Andy Emich, 204 4^th St., Deck, $2,880 

Reminders of the upcoming, meetings were noted:
                        1)  August 17, 2011, 6:00 p.m., BUDGET WORKSHOP/SIU Agreements
                        2)  August 31, 2011, 6:30 p.m., second regular August meeting
                        3)  September 21, 2011, 6:30 p.m., ONLY September meeting 

With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:15 p.m. 

Vanessa Drill, City Clerk/Treasurer

Mayor Glenn Thompson called the July 20, 2011 meeting of the Nicollet City Council to order at 6:30 p.m. in the council chambers. 

In addition to Mayor Thompson; Council members Steve Johnson, Fred Froehlich, and Tom Hoffman were present.  Councilman Cory Johnson was absent.  Others in attendance included Michael Koob (Ledger), Reggie Edwards (Region Nine) and Dennis Wills.  Staff present: Vanessa Drill and Gary Johnson.

 The agenda was approved as presented on a motion which was made by T. Hoffman, which was seconded by S. Johnson, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

The minutes of the June 29, 2011 regular meeting with one change was approved on a motion which was made by F. Froehlich, which was seconded by S. Johnson, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

The bills totaling $56,238.57 were approved on a motion which was made by S. Johnson, which was seconded by T. Hoffman, and which carried with all voting in favor.

Region Nine Director Reggie Edwards was present to discuss the activities of the development commission.  He shared that the goal is to promote the development of the region through intergovernmental cooperation, community and human development, long-range planning and technical assistance.

Dennis Wills shared with the council his concern about the city vacating an alleyway per the request of Charles Otto.  Mr. Wills the developer of the subdivision since 1958 shared the plat map for the division with the statement stating “that the alleys and streets in the development would be dedicated to the city forever.”   A letter of recommendation from the city attorney was noted, stating that it doesn’t make sense to give that property up at this point, since alleys are laid out in plats to allow the city to have an unimpeded area to run city utilities, such as electricity, water, sewer, cable, and fiber optic lines.  With the recommendation and plat mat, the council was not in favor of vacating the alley.

The Maintenance Supervisor:
            1)  Noted he helped with a dog attack on a resident walking by 731 3^rd Street
            2)  Shared that Otto Concrete requested to remove the curb on 2^nd Street in front of
                 Grommersch Seeds
            3)  Requested to hire Nourie Construction to set posts for the new salt and sand 
                 bunker at $35.00/hr
            4)  Supplied a water movement report
            5)  Presented pictures taken at the brush chipping/compost pile of violators
            6)  Shared bids for patching, paving and seal coating from:
                        a)  Caldwell Asphalt
                        b)  M.R. Paving & Excavating
                        c)  SMC
                        d)  W.W. Blacktopping
            7)  Reported of a new chemical for treating the ponds that will kill vegetation but will
                 not harm fish
            8)  Noted the cleaning for County Ditch #4 is postponed until fall

The following bids from M.R. Paving & Excavating were approved on a motion, which was made by S. Johnson, which was seconded by F. Froehlich, which carried with all voting in favor:
            Chip Seal – $22,299.00    Skim Patching – $3,564    Bituminous Patching – $3,891S. Johnson noted his meeting with the Fire Relief Association on May 23.

The following building and zoning permits were approved on a motion made by S. Johnson, which was seconded by T. Hoffman, and which carried with all voting in favor:
                Building Permits:
                1)  Enter’s Liquid Fertilizer, Inc, 220 3^rd St., Reroof, Value Unknown 
                    2)  Pat Zins, 408 4^th St., Reroof, $5,600
                3)  Judie Engelhart, 225 Cedar St., Reroof, Value Unknown
                4)  David Will, 714 5^th St., Reroof and Siding, $8,000
                5)  Charles Otto, 409 Elm St., Siding, Value Unknown
                6)  Edward Grunst, 725 3^rd St., Siding, $4,500
                Zoning Permits:
                1)  Mike & Alesia Slater, 1001 9^th St., Shed, $1,600
                2)  Trinity Lutheran Church-Caring Arms, 520 6^th St., Fence/Shed, $7,000 

Reminders of the upcoming, meetings were noted:
                1)  August 10, 2011, 6:30 p.m., first regular August meeting
                2)  August 31, 2011, 6:30 p.m., second regular August meeting

With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m.

__________________________

Vanessa Drill, City Clerk/Treasurer

Mayor Glenn Thompson called the June 29, 2011 meeting of the Nicollet City Council to order at 6:30 p.m. in the council chambers. 

In addition to Mayor Thompson; Council members Steve Johnson, Fred Froehlich, Tom Hoffman and Cory Johnson were present.   Others in attendance included Michael Koob (Ledger), Charles Otto, Shirley Clifford, Steve Ardolf (Legion Commander), Mike Holmin (Lions Club), Ron Giefer, Jr., DuWayne Enter, Kathy Enter, Judie Engelhart and Phyllis Wenner.  Staff present: Vanessa Drill and Gary Johnson. 

The agenda was approved as presented on a motion which was made C. Johnson, which was seconded by F. Froehlich, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

The minutes of the June 8, 2011 regular meeting with one change was approved on a motion which was made by C. Johnson, which was seconded by F. Froehlich, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

The bills totaling $44,282.21 were approved on a motion which was made by S. Johnson, which was seconded by T. Hoffman, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

Legion Commander Steve Ardolf thanked the council for the use of the City Maintenance building during Friendship days.  It was noted that the carnival company during clean-up left big holes in the boulevard and knocked down a Yield sign.  It was agreed the City will send a bill to the Legion for the repair of the sign. 

Mike Holmin, Lions Club member presented to the council a check in the amount of $1,000 in which the club would like to plant trees in the fall at Greenspace Park.

Nicollet Lions Club LG555 Government Approval or Acknowledgement for Use of Gambling Funds was approved on a motion which was made by C. Johnson, which was seconded by F. Froehlich, and which carried with all voting in favor.

Judie Engelhart was present to have clarification on issues regarding her property at 225 Cedar Street.  In order for the home to be sold it needs to be determined that the property is a marketable single family dwelling.  The property is in a Commercial zone.  

The following motion which was made by F. Froehlich, which was seconded by S. Johnson, and which carried with all voting in favor for the property at 225 Cedar Street:
            1)  It was noted the property was grandfathered in as a residential property
            2)  If the structure gets damaged the owners would be able to rebuild as a
                  residential property
            3) An exception for this property so that is marketable as a residential property
                 since the structure does not currently meet set back requirements
            4)  Property can be used as a residential property into the foreseeable future.  No
                 requirements or grandfathered items expire with the sale or damage of the
                property 

Ron Giefer, Jr and DuWayne Enter were present to discuss the proposed cleaning of County Ditch 4.  It was noted that this is a County ditch and not a City ditch.  The County will be in contact with the Maintenance Supervisor to schedule a time to tag trees for removal.

Charles Otto approached the Council about vacating the alleyway along side of his home.  It was noted that there needs to be a public hearing for this procedure which will cost Otto $300.00.  The Council informed Otto that he would need to be in contact with the Clerk if he wanted to proceed.

Phyllis Wenner was present to ask the council what is the zoning in her neighborhood as she has complaints about her neighbors.  The Council approached Wenner about allowing her neighbors to put up a fence on the property line, but Wenner wants any fence to comply with the ordinance which mandates a one-foot setback unless a written agreement between adjoining property owners is made. 

The Clerk:
            1)  Discussed dates for a budget workshop – July 26 @ 6:00 p.m. was set
            2)  Shared a Thank You letter from Deml Ford for the purchase of the new City truck
            3)  Discussed a request from MNSU Small Business Development for a donation
                 council denied request
            4)  Shared the recommendation letter from LSEngineers, Inc regarding the North Shop
                 at 205 Pine St
            5)  Presented a monthly breakdown by hours for the time spent at Searles

Maintenance Supervisor presented the council with quotes from Bargen Incorporated on repairs to streets within the City. 

The following quotes from Bargen Incorporated were approved on a motion, which was made by S. Johnson, which was seconded by F. Froehlich, which carried with all voting in favor:
   Nuvo Gap – $2,237            Infrared Patching – $995            Cracked Sealed – $5,245

The Council directed the Clerk to advertise for 2-part-time positions within the City.  One position will be for a part-time maintenance worker with the possibility of turning to full-time, starting hourly wage of $14.00/hr and the second position for a part-time summer seasonal grounds maintenance worker, starting hourly wage of $9.00/hr.

The employment policy for part-time city maintenance employees was revised. Overtime will not be permitted unless there is prior approval of the City Council or an authorized designee appointed by the Council and the part-time employee will not have the freedom to work when they choose to.  The changes were approved on a motion, which was made by C. Johnson, which was seconded by T. Hoffman, and which carried with all voting in favor.

S. Johnson noted his meeting with the Fire Relief Association on May 23. 

An email from Bolton & Menk was noted regarding the pretreatment agreements for the SIU’s.  

Resolution #06-29-11 Decertifying Individual Parcels Within Tax Increment Financing District No. 1-8 was approved on a motion which was made by S. Johnson, which was seconded by C. Johnson, and which carried with all voting yes. 

The Operations, Maintenance and Repair Agreement between the City of Nicollet and Cottonwood Township (Searles) was approved on a motion which was made by T. Hoffman, which was seconded by C. Johnson, which carried with all voting in favor.      

The following building and zoning permits were approved on a motion made by C. Johnson, which was seconded by F. Froehlich, and which carried with all voting in favor:
                Building Permits:
                1)  Scott & Jody Wills, 635 6^th St., Roof and Siding, $15,262
                2)  Ron Bagley, 310 Elm St., Siding, $22,000
                3)  Jennifer Wimmergren, 731 3^rd St, Deck, $2,400
                4)  Sue Drill, 813 Elm St., Roof, $12,375
                5)  Rick Hulke, 708 8^th St., Siding, $2,200
                6)  Trinity Church, 608 Main St., Roof, $11,474
                7)  Trinity Church, 500 6^th St., Roof, $16,670
                8)  Trinity Church, 301 4^th St., Roof, $9,471
                9)  Year Round Comfort, 150 Erin Ct., New Construction, $175,000
                10)  Year Round Comfort, 146 Erin Ct., New Construction, $175,000
                11)  Zins Apartments, 501 Second St., Reroof, $10,000
                Zoning Permits:
                    1)  Year Round Comfort, 150 Erin Ct., New Construction, $175,000
                2)  Year Round Comfort, 146 Erin Ct., New Construction, $175,000

Reminders of the upcoming, meetings were noted:
                                1)  July 20, 2011, 6:30 p.m., ONLY regular July meeting
                                2)  August 10, 2011, 6:30 p.m., first regular August meeting
                                3)  August 31, 2011, 6:30 p.m., second regular August meeting

Vanessa Drill, City Clerk/Treasurer

Mayor Glenn Thompson called the June 8, 2011 meeting of the Nicollet City Council to order at 6:30 p.m. in the council chambers. 

In addition to Mayor Thompson; Council members Steve Johnson, Fred Froehlich and Tom Hoffman were in attendance.  Councilman Cory Johnson was absent.   Others in attendance included Sandi Altmann (Ledger), Paul Donna (Northland Securities) and Alesia Slater.  Staff present: Vanessa Drill and Gary Johnson. 

The agenda was approved as presented on a motion which was made S. Johnson, which was seconded by T. Hoffman, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

The minutes of the May 8, 2011 regular meeting was approved on a motion which was made by T. Hoffman, which was seconded by F. Froehlich, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

The bills totaling $62,757.56 were approved on a motion which was made by S. Johnson, which was seconded by T. Hoffman, and which carried with all voting in favor.

Paul Donna with Northland Securities was present to speak about the refinancing of Bonds that was previously noted in the October 2010 meeting, the refinancing process was put on hold due to the high interest rates.  Donna said with the current rates it’s feasible for the City to move forward. 

Resolution No. 06-08-2011 for the Issuance and Sale of $820,000 General Obligation Refunding Bonds Series 2011A, was approved on a motion which was made by S Johnson, which was seconded by F Froehlich, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

Alesia Slater representing the Nicollet Chamber of Commerce approached the Council about the next Chamber event that will take place August 2.  The Chamber is planning a National Night Out event and would like to utilize the Greenspace Park along with the concession stand for the event as well as closing the alleyway behind the creamery.  The Council authorized the City employees to work with the Chamber to get things ready for the event. 

The Clerk: 
1)  Noted a request from Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation for a contribution for 2012
2) Shared a letter from the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust Loss Control department   regarding an inspection they did on the North Shop Maintenance Building back in March.  The letter STRONGLY indicates a need to further evaluate the structural integrity of the building.  An evaluation by a Registered Professional Engineer to determine the safety of   the building was recommended.
3)  Shared the pay off amount for the MaraTonka Townhomes loan
4)  Discussed a violation of the zoning ordinances for a shed located at 126 Erin Court        

No action was taken on the request from Southern MN Initiative Foundation for funding in 2012.

The Council instructed the Clerk to send a letter to the property owner of 126 Erin Court indicating they are in violation of the zoning ordinance number #79 and give them 30 days to comply with the guidelines or the next steps will be taken.

Resolution #06-08-11A – Loan Payoff for the Mara Tonka Townhomes was approved on a motion which was made by F. Froehlich, which was seconded by S. Johnson, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

Grant Poehler with Swan Lake Woodworks joined the meeting to share a set of “rough plans” for the possible expansion to the City Hall.  The expansion would give the city the availability of having the shop and offices all in one location.  

Swan Lake Woodworks to get a set of “biddable plans” for the city hall expansion was approved on a motion which was made by S. Johnson, which was seconded by T. Hoffman, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

The City to pay Swan Lake Woodworks for the time spent on the expansion project if the bid is NOT awarded to Swan Lake Woodworks was approved on a motion which was made by S. Johnson, which was seconded by T. Hoffman, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

Maintenance Supervisor:
1)  Supplied a water movement report
2)  Stated a request for rock on alleyways
3)  Shared that Hwy 111 will be patched in the coming weeks
4)  Discussed the updating of the Searles Contract
5)  Noted the chipper is broken

The Council directed the supervisor to do maintenance on all the alleyways within the city. 

Froehlich shared a logo for the new city truck as well as a quote from St Peter Lumber for a Salt & Sand Bunk, it was noted that sentence to serve can build the bunks. 

The quote from St Peter Lumber for materials for a Salt & Sand Bunk in the amount of $5,680 was approved on a motion which was made by F. Froehlich, which was seconded by S. Johnson, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

American Legion Post #510 LG220 Application for Exempt Permit for June 24-26, 2011 was approved on a motion which was made by T. Hoffman, which was seconded by S. Johnson, and which carried with all voting in favor.

A Partial Release of Mortgage for Lot 5 and 6, Block 4 of the School Estates Common Interest Community was approved on a motion which was made by S. Johnson, which was seconded by T. Hoffman, which carried with all voting in favor. 

The following building and zoning permits were approved on a motion made by F. Froehlich, which was seconded by T. Hoffman, and which carried with all voting in favor:
                1)  Larry Hewitt, 706 Ash St., Reroof, $13,000
                2)  Arnold Krohn, 711 8^th St., Reroof, $6,000
                3)  Dale Polzin, 430 6^th St., Reroof and Siding, $8,700
                4)  Jeremy & Kari Arndt, 613 Pine St., Reroof, $9,800
                5)  Jim Augustin, 610 3^rd St., Reroof, $7,000
                6)  Maxine Dauer, 109 Burg Ave., Reroof, $5,900
                7)  Michael & Ann Wagner, 916 4^th St., Reroof and Siding, $15,000
                8)  Esther Schmidt, 402 6^th St., Siding, $4,000
                9)  Adam Schoeb, 903 3^rd St., Siding, $14,845
                10)  Dennell & Pam Vulcan, 712 Elm St., Reroof and Siding, Value Unknown
                11)  Tom & Jody Murphy, 139 Erin Ct., Reroof and Siding, $12,500
                12)  Norman Barrer, 633 6^th St., Reroof and Siding, $15,000
                13)  Tom Rieke, 808 Nicollet Ave., Siding, $1,880
                14)  Paul Russow, 313 4^th St., Siding, $8,000
                Zoning Permit:
                1)  John Enter, 905 4^th St., Shed, $1,200 

Reminders of the upcoming, meetings were noted:
                                1)  June 29, 2011, 6:30 p.m., second regular June meeting
                                2)  July 20, 2011, 6:30 p.m., Only regular July meeting
                                3)  August 10, 2011, 6:30 p.m., first regular August meeting
 With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:55 p.m. on a motion which was made by F. Froehlich, which was seconded by S. Johnson, and which carried with all voting in favor.

Vanessa Drill, City Clerk/Treasurer

Mayor Glenn Thompson called the May 18, 2011 meeting of the Nicollet City Council to order at 6:30 p.m. in the council chambers. 

In addition to Mayor Thompson; Council members Steve Johnson and Fred Froehlich were in attendance.  Councilmen Cory Johnson and Tom Hoffman were absent.   Others in attendance included Sandi Altmann (Ledger).  Staff present: Vanessa Drill and Gary Johnson.

The agenda was approved as presented on a motion which was made S. Johnson, which was seconded by F. Froehlich, and which carried with all voting in favor.

The minutes of the April 27, 2011 meeting and May 11, 2011 City Wide Tour special meeting was approved on a motion which was made by F. Froehlich, which was seconded by S. Johnson, and which carried with all voting in favor.

The bills totaling $81,947.65 were approved on a motion which was made by S. Johnson, which was seconded by G. Thompson, and which carried with all voting in favor.

The Clerk:
1)  Provided financial information to the council budget vs acutals
2)  Discussed how much was spent in the past 2 years on streets
3)  Shared the status of prepaid meters vs monthly installments
4)  Provided a monthly financial status of the Mara Tonka Townhomes

The council directed the clerk to work with the auditor on getting the loan with ProGrowth bank for the Mara Tonka townhomes paid off.

Maintenance Supervisor:
1)  Supplied a water movement report
2)  Shared that over half of the alley’s in town have been groomed
3)  Supplied a proposal from Loken’s Parking Lot Painting and Sweeping in the amount of  $1,700 which the council gave the go-ahead with street sweeping.
4)  Shared 2 proposals to clean the water tower.  One proposal from Water Tower Clean and Coat in the amount of $3,800 and the other from Midwest Mobile Washers in the amount of $4,525
5)  Discussed an I & I problem the city has.  The council directed the supervisor to work on a plan to do sump pump inspections in the entire city
6)  Discussed part-time positions.  Requested to have one position for summer help ONLY (ie. mowing) and another position that could eventually lead to full-time.
7)  Wanted to re-address the part-time maintenance personnel policy, which will be followed up at the next council meeting. 

The proposal from Midwest Mobile Washers in the amount of $4,525 to clean the water tower was approved on a motion made by S. Johnson, which was seconded by G. Thompson, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

The clerk was directed to do some research with the MN Council of Governments on pay rates and job descriptions for the 2 part-time maintenance positions.  Councilman Froehlich, S. Johnson and the Council of Governments will conduct the interviewing.  

Advertising for 2 part-time maintenance positions was approved on a motion made by S. Johnson, which was seconded by F. Froehlich and which carried with all voting in favor. 

Froehlich noted that CenterPoint Energy will be providing the City with a $5,000 perpetual bond for any projects that they will be working on. 

S. Johnson reported on information he received on the salt and sand bunkers located in Belgrade Township. 

It was noted that September 12 is the next liasion meeting with the County. 

A drainage system repair report from Nicollet County Public Works Department was noted for County Ditch No. 4, section 3. 

Some open items from the City Wide Tour were discussed:   
1)  Culvert by Hewitt’s – Froehlich and S. Johnson will address
2)  Drainage @ G Poehler’s – Thompson will handle
3)  North Elm Street – Red Rock or Gravel – it was noted that Elm Street needs a base first before red rock would be supplied
4)  Site for possible City Woods – no discussion
5)  Frost Boils on Pine & 4^th & 5^th Streets – Maintenance Supervisor to follow-up
6)  Sealcoating on Heidemann and 4^th Street (MaraTonka addition) – Maintenance Supervisor will get proposals 

The Annual Consumer Confidence Report for 2010 was noted, authorization for this publication to be printed in the newspaper was approved on a motion which was made by S. Johnson, which was seconded by F. Froehlich, and which carried with all voting in favor. 

The following 2011-2012 License Renewals/Applications were approved on a motion which was made by F. Froehlich, which was seconded by S. Johnson, and which carried with all voting in favor:
                   1)            PFG, Inc., (Nicollet Mart)
                                   a.)    3.2 Off-Sale; July 1, 2011 – June 30, 2012; $15.00
                   2)            JBF, Inc. (Cabin Bar)
                                   a.)   On-Sale (Liquor); July 1, 2011 – June 30, 2012; $1,900.00
                                   b.)   Off-Sale (Liquor); July 1, 2011 – June 30, 2012; $100.00
                                   c.)   Sunday; July 1, 2011 – June 30, 2012; $200.00
                   3)            Rapid Rick’s Bar/Grill Inc 
                                   a.)   On-Sale (Liquor); July 1, 2011 – June 30, 2012; $1,900.00
                                   b.)   Off-Sale (Liquor); July 1, 2011 – June 30, 2012; $100.00
                                   c.)   Sunday; July 1, 2011 – June 30, 2012; $200.00
                   4)            Nicollet Am. Legion Club and Auxiliary, Inc.
                                   a.)   On Sale Club; July 1, 2011 – June 30, 2012; $100.00
                                   b.)   3.2 On-Sale; City Park; June 24 – 26, 2011; $15.00
                                   c.)   3.2 On-Sale; Demo Derby Grounds; June 24–26, 2011; $15.00 

The following building permits were approved on a motion made by S. Johnson, which was seconded by F. Froehlich, and which carried with all voting in favor:
                1)  Dennis Langstraat, 705 Ash St., Reroof and Reside, $4,945
                2)  American Legion, 715 3^rd St., Replacement Heater Units, $31,500
                3)  Otto Electric, 310 Ash St., Reroof and Door, $8,000
                4)  5^th Street Apartments, 705 & 709 5^th St., Reroof and Reside, $60,000
                5)  James Schroeder, 601 4^th St., Reroof, $7,274
                6)  Shaun Fitzner, 909 4^th St., Reside, $3,000
                7)  Ron Bagley, 310 Elm St., Reroof, $19,864
                8)  Judith Nordeen, 907 3^rd St., Reside, $11,58
                9)  Michelle Miller-Quiring, 821 Elm St., Reside, $6,000
                10)  Craig Ogden, 316 5^th St., Reroof and Reside, $17,000
                11)  Mary Giefer, 428 4^th St., Reroof, $4,000
                12)  Lyle Wills, 800 Hillside Ct., Reroof and Reside, $8,000
                13)  Donn & Wanda Rakow, 310 5^th St., Reroof and Reside, $6,500
                14)  Tom Uehling, 113 Burg Ave., Reside, $3,000
                15)  James & Jo Brevitz, 511 6^th St., Reroof, $8,459
                16)  Jeremy Hatlevig, 610 5^th St., Reside and Windows, $10,000
                17)  Rick Hulke, 708 8^th St., Reroof, $10,000 

Reminders of the upcoming, meetings were noted:
                                1)  June 8, 2011, 6:30 p.m., first regular June meeting
                                2)  June 29, 2011, 6:30 p.m., second regular June meeting
                                3)  July 20, 2011, 6:30 p.m., Only regular July meeting

With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m. on a motion which was made by F. Froehlich, which was seconded by S. Johnson, and which carried with all voting in favor.

Vanessa Drill, City Clerk/Treasurer

Mayor Glenn Thompson called a special meeting of the Nicollet City Council to order at 5:30 pm on May 11, 2011, at City Hall.

In addition to Mayor Thompson; Council members Steve Johnson, Fred Froehlich, and Tom Hoffman were in attendance.   Councilman Cory Johnson was absent.  Staff present: Vanessa Drill, Gary Johnson and Joe Duncan (City Engineer).

The purpose of the meeting was for the Council and staff to tour the city with no further agenda being proposed.

The tour included all the following:
1) 508 7^th St. – Vogel Residence – dog kennel, property line, camper, and other items
2) 904 8^th St. – Stoecker Residence – usage of unmaintained alleyway behind home and along side of garage
3) 329 Cedar St. – Scholtz Residence
4) 500 4^th St. – Reichel Residence – sump pump hose
5) Heidemann Avenue – cracking of street
6) Wels Court – wavyness of road
7) Behind George’s City Meat and Poehler’s Home – drainage problem
8   8th Street Manhole
9) Alleyway behind Kenny Wenner’s Home
10) North Elm Street – red rock vs gravel
11) Area for possible City Woods
12) Frost Boils on Streets and Alleyways
13) Look at Nicollet County’s Salt Bunk
14) County Ditch #4 – cleaning
15) Alleyway behind Otto Electric – drainage problems
16) 9^th Street Road Ditch – water damning on both sides of culvert
17) Cedar and Elm Street Road Ditch – cleaning
18) Storm Drain Sink Hole –Near 905 & 909 4^th Street
19) All Gravel Roads
20) All Alleyways
21) North Shop and Maintenance Garage (City Hall)
22) Sewer Ponds – wooden fences

City staff will drive all city streets and alleys in the coming days to identify any other unlicensed or inoperable vehicles, accumulations of junk and debris, and unkempt lawns.

With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:55.

Mayor Glenn Thompson called the April 27, 2011 meeting of the Nicollet City Council to order at 6:30 p.m. in the council chambers.

In addition to Mayor Thompson; Council members Steve Johnson, Fred Froehlich, Cory Johnson and Tom Hoffman were in attendance.   Others in attendance included Richard Mayer, Paul Zins, Brent Otto, Ruth Klossner (Ledger) and Bill Betsinger (Ferguson Waterworks).  Staff present: Vanessa Drill and Gary Johnson.

The agenda was approved as presented on a motion which was made C. Johnson, which was seconded by F. Froehlich, and which carried with all voting in favor.

The minutes of the Board of Appeal & Equalization and the April 6, 2011 meeting was approved on a motion which was made by C. Johnson, which was seconded by T. Hoffman, and which carried with all voting in favor.

The bills totaling $33,478.65 were approved on a motion which was made by C. Johnson, which was seconded by F. Froehlich, and which carried with all voting in favor.

Richard Mayer was present at the council meeting voicing his concern regarding the non-publication of the city council minutes, he felt that by the minutes not being published that the Council is hiding something.  He also asked why the Clerk doesn’t have her hours posted.

After a long discussion, a summary publication of the minutes in the Ledger effective April 27 was approved on a motion by S. Johnson, which was seconded by F. Froehlich, and which carried with all voting in favor.

Resident Paul Zins approached the council about a “rumor” regarding an aerator pump for the Mara Tonka Pond.  Mr. Zins felt that the City shouldn’t spend their money on this and feels the residents of the pond should be assessed if an aerator pump is necessary.  Mr. Zins also feels that the Mayor should be more accessible.

Resident Brent Otto provided a petition from the landowners in Mara Tonka requesting that the city take action and correct the issue of the appearance and well-being of the Mara Tonka pond.  The pond appears to have an algae growth problem and has gotten worse since the 2006 manure spill.  Fred Froehlich noted since the spill, it’s become a city nuisance – “algae can be toxic to kids and dogs.”  The council directed the Clerk to work with the DNR to see if the pond maybe tested to see what is really in the pond for the next steps.

Bill Betsinger of Ferguson Waterworks presented a demonstration of a Gen-Eye SD a pipe inspection/location system for the sewer lines.  This tool can record video or still images and includes an 8-inch LCD color monitor, a full keyboard for on-screen titling. Distance counter, built-in voice over unit, date and time stamp, picture inverter, camera test port and much more.  Gary Johnson noted that this tool would help city workers find it’s I&I problems and leaks.  Ferguson Waterworks quoted the city a price of $8,780.22 plus tax.

A motion by S. Johnson, to purchase the Gen-Eye SD ($8,780.22) and a detector/locator ($2,000) was approved, which was seconded by T. Hoffman, which carried with all voting in favor.

The Clerk:
1)  Discussed the dues from the Highway 14 Partnership for 2011
2)  Auto-Pay @ Progrowth Bank
3)  Shared the water sales from 1ast year 1^st QTR vs this year 1^st QTR
4)  Asked for guidance on the compilation of the policies and past practices
5)  The new website is up and running:  www.nicollet.org

The Council declined at this time to register as a member of the Highway 14 Partnership.

A drop-box at the city office was instructed to get installed as soon as possible.

The policy for cleaning, repairing and replacing defective and inadequate water service lines, sump pump discharge lines and sewer lines and distributing the associated costs was discussed as the Clerk was looking for guidance on Item #7  where a $500 security deposit in cash, personal check, or performance bond secured from the owner is required by the city.  Since the security deposit hasn’t been enforced in the past, Item #7 under the said policy will be eliminated which was approved on a motion by S. Johnson, which was seconded by T. Hoffman, which carried with all voting in favor.

Maintenance Supervisor:
1)  Met with a representative from Minnesota Rural Water Association regarding the sewer ponds
The Representative noted the following:
a)  3-way phase power should be out to the ponds
b)  A secondary forced main should be installed
c)  The SIU’s should have compost samplers(programmed samples)
d)  User fees on sampling should be implemented
e)  The Secondary ponds should be sludged tested
2)  Met with a Lions member on the volleyball courts.  It was decided the City will get 2 new volleyball nets and the Lions will take care of the anchors, ropes and sand.  With budget cuts the City will have the bathrooms unlocked in the park instead of getting porta-potties.  The council noted that a representative from the volleyball league should come speak to the council if they have an issue with this matter.
3)  Noted that dust control is needed on Pine and Cedar Streets near the Elevator.  The Council asked that the expense be shared with the Elevator.
4)  Noted that these is an active septic tank at a residence home off of Elm Street
5) Found that Year Round Comfort, a building contractor turned on water without the cities  permission
6)  The manhole on 8^th Street was cleaned

S. Johnson questioned why was red rock put on Walnut Street and not gravel.

Froehlich noted that he talked with the City Attorney about nuisance problems and how they should be handled.  The attorney is willing to handle the complaints if the employees do the investigating work.  The findings can result in a misdemeanor.

Froehlich also spoke with Kevin Stolt on using sentence to serve on building of new salt bunks.

The following building permits were approved on a motion made by C. Johnson, which was seconded by F. Froehlich, and which carried with all voting in favor:
1)  Lance & Julie Dlouhy, 711 Elm St., Reroof and Siding, $10,000
2)  Geraldine Leonard, 600 3^rd St., Reroof, $8,350
3)  Doug & Jill Schauberger, 912 4^th St., Reroof and Siding, $13,600
4)  Richard & Beverly Mayer, 404 Hopp Ave., Siding, $10,000

The City Wide Tour was moved to a special meeting on Wednesday, May 11 @ 5:30 for time allowance.

Reminders of the upcoming, meetings were noted:
1)  May 11, 2011, 5:30 p.m. – CITY WIDE TOUR
2)  May 18, 2011, 6:30 p.m., ONLY May meeting
3)  June 8, 2011, 6:30 p.m., first regular June meeting
4)  June 29, 2011, 6:30 p.m., second regular June meeting

With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:05 p.m. on a motion which was made by C. Johnson, which was seconded by T. Hoffman, and which carried with all voting in favor.

Vanessa Drill, City Clerk/Treasurer