city of hudson common council meeting

minutes of monday, june 6, 2006

Meeting called to order by Mayor Jack Breault in the Council Chambers of City Hall at 7:01 p.m.

PRESENT: Mayor Breault and Alderpersons Randy Morrissette, Dennis O’Connell, Paul Radermacher, Lee Wyland, Scot O’Malley and Carah Koch.

OTHERS PRESENT: Devin Willi, Catherine Munkittrick, Denny Darnold, Eric Christensen, Ryan Brevig, Gordon Conard, Angela Popenhagen, Paul Larson, Mellisa Dahl, Don Maysack, Bob Benoy, Mary-Bowen-Eggebraaten, Gerald Warnken, Jeff Cooper, Karen Olson, Ronald Olson, Jeff Johnson, Pete Foster, Mike Goodman, Dick Muenich, Mark Leaverty, David Riopel, Mark Bodin, Pat Sherley, Bob Triese, Randy Hanson, and others.

COMMENTS AND SUGGESTIONS FROM CITIZENS PRESENT: None.

CONSENT AGENDA: MOTION by Radermacher, second by Morrissette, to approve the following Consent Agenda items:

MINUTES: Approve the Regular Meeting Minutes of 5/15/06 and Special Meeting minutes of 5/22/06.

Claims: Approve the following claims for payment:

Fund	Description	PAYABLEs	PAYROLL	Totals
100	General	250,520.88	267,779.95	518,300.83
230	Wisc DVL/RVL	324.00	0.00	324.00
231	SCBP-RVL Loan	148.50	0.00	148.50
280	Park Donations	53,757.00	0.00	53,757.00
410	Tax Increment Financing	362.88	0.00	362.88
450	Capital Projects	13,934.42	0.00	13,934.42
610	Sewer	14,750.47	21,051.51	35,801.98
620	Parking Utility	1,125.61	1,186.74	2,312.35
630	Ambulance	12,075.96	27,392.39	39,468.35
	TOTALS	$346,999.72	$317,410.59	$664,410.31

Applications for Operator’s Licenses: Approve the issuance of Regular Operator’s Licenses for the period July 1, 2006 to June 30, 2008 to the following:

Sandra K. Berry 8284 Innsdale Ave. S. Cottage Grove, MN

Evelyn D. Dawson 462 Green Mill Lane Hudson, WI

Justin M. Gilmer 27 Coulee Road Hudson, WI

Barbara S. Goodman 345 Westgrove Road Hudson, WI

Kalman Endre Govrik 707 River Street Hudson, WI

Helen Y. Kwok 712 Woodcrest Drive N. Hudson, WI

Gregory E. Masilko 459 Meadow Lane Somerset, WI

Robert N. Knelfelkamp 1140 Helen St. N. Hudson, WI

Susanne K. Parr 1900 Ironwood Bay Hudson, WI

Teresa L. Peterson 426 Green Mill Lane Hudson, WI

Jesse D. Hoffman 486 Jacobs Lane Hudson, WI

Lena M. Ruesch 1485 Wildcat Ct. #103 River Falls, WI

James G. Worley 2125 55^th Avenue Baldwin, WI

Tara S. Kattre 216 W. Elm Street Woodville, WI

Sonya M. Ward 146 Dunberry Pass Hudson, WI

Krystle A. Sparks 644 Glen Park Road River Falls, WI

Andrew R. Boyd 1064 Robert Street S. St. Paul, MN

Helen A. Bretthauer 708 Michaelson St. No. Hudson, WI

Joseph A. Ferraro 720 Quality Lane W. Lakeland, MN

Lisa M. Krueger 2073 Co. Rd. H Deer Park, WI

Nicole E. VanBeek 30E 185^th St Star Prairie, WI

Chad R. Nieland 1210 Hanley Rd. #6 Hudson, WI

Angela M. Dedo 167 N. McKnight Rd. #304 St. Paul, MN

Joanne L. Minke 621 Oak Street Hudson, WI

Rose M. Minke 632 Lemon St. No. Hudson, WI

Meili J. Hansen 1670 50^th Street Somerset, WI

And the issuance of Temporary Operator’s Licenses for June 30 to July 2, 2006 to:

Carrie D. Domino 578 White Oak Drive Hudson, WI

Gregory A. Mahr 1249 80^th Street Hudson, WI

Jerry L. McKenzie 1262 27^th Street Hudson, WI

Application of F.D.S. Enterprises for renewal of TaxiCab Service License d/b/a A-Taxi/Hudson Taxi, and Taxicab Drivers Licenses. Approve the renewal and issuance of a Taxicab Service License for six vehicles to F.D.S. Enterprises, Inc. d/b/a A-Taxi/Hudson Taxi, and Taxicab Driver’s Licenses to the following:

Robert S. Francis 421 192 Avenue Somerset, WI

Jenny L. Hilpert 308 W. Maple Roberts, WI

John D. Vassar 2057 Bradley St. #209 Maplewood, MN

Ronald A. Nelson 1617 S. Greeley Street Stillwater, MN

Douglas J. Luchsinger 1013 River Crest Rd. N. Lakeland, MN

Martin A. Withuski 14843 60^th St. N. #16 Stillwater, MN

Application of Bertha Fenner for Amusement Device Permits at Dibbo’s, 517 Second Street. Approve the renewal and issuance of Amusement Device Permits to Bertha Fenner for the 13 amusement device machines located at Dibbo’s, 517 Second Street, Hudson, WI.

Roll call vote, all ayes (6) – MOTION CARRIED.

Update on Hudson School District capacity/student enrollment – Supt. Mary Bowen-Eggebraaten: Hudson School District Superintendent Mary Bowen-Eggebraaten announced that she and other School District personnel were present to share information about the district’s enrollment, projection and capacities, and short-term solutions for elementary growth. She requested suggestions to consider for long-range growth. Bob Benoy presented information on enrollment at various schools in the district, along with capacities and guidelines. A handout was provided and was placed on file in the Clerk’s office. Mr. Benoy stated that a plan is in place to allow students to voluntarily move to a different school if space is available. He noted that when capacity at a school is reached, the students would be required to enroll at a different location.

A lengthy explanation was given regarding capped classroom sizes and school capacities. School Board member Dick Muenich provided a summary, noting that the School Board was committed to providing a good quality educational system. He reviewed the steps taken by the Board in the analysis process and noted that their current focus would be on the elementary grades. Mr. Muenich stated that short-term solutions include capping enrollment, and noted that by September of 2008 they anticipate that all the schools would be at capacity. He explained that this only included the current number of students enrolled, not including the 2% to 3% growth anticipated.

Superintendent Mary Bowen-Eggebraaten appealed to the Council, stating the School District was seeking support and guidance as partners in the community. She invited them to share any ideas that they might have.

Mayor Breault inquired whether the administrative offices could be moved to a different building. Ms. Bowen-Eggebraaten stated that they are beginning to consider it. They would gain room for approximately 150 students, and discussions will continue. Mayor Breault also asked about plans for an addition to the Rock School. Ms. Bowen-Eggebraaten replied that a task force would be looking into that option. She also stated that she appreciated the support they have received. Mayor Breault requested that she keep the Council informed.

Health insurance issues: Mayor Breault announced that Council is looking into the cost of health insurance coverage for City employees. He stated that Northwestern Mutual insurance representatives were present to provide information. Mike Leaverty, David Riopel and Mark Bodin spoke about the benefits that could be provided through Northwestern Mutual and Health Partners. Mark Bodin reviewed the rules concerning retirees and returning to the State health insurance plan, as well as the need to have employees complete a 12-page document pertaining to their health histories. It was noted that substantially equivalent coverage would be needed to satisfy the union contracts. Administrator Willi pointed out the need to advertise the contract for bids. O’Malley questioned whether there were any fiduciary interests or directorships between Northwestern Mutual and Health Partners. He was told there were not. Radermacher commented that the goal was not to reduce benefits, but to offer the same benefits at a reduced cost. He stated he believed there could be a savings of $5,000 to $10,000 per employee.

Additional discussion included the need for a provider list and union contract representatives becoming informed. MOTION by O’Malley, second by Radermacher, to authorize Administrator Willi to begin the health insurance contract process, contact the union representatives, and begin the advertising process, based on the criteria discussed. Koch requested a comparison of rate increases by Health Partners, as well as Humana and Comp-Care, for a three-year time period. Mr. Willi added that Council action would have to occur by the second meeting in September in order to meet the October 1^st deadline with the State health plan. All ayes (6), Motion carried.

Application for Conditional Use Permit to construct a garage over 20 feet in height – Gregory Smith, 715 Eighth Street: Denny Darnold provided background information about a garage under construction at 715 Eighth Street. It was found to be over the 20-foot maximum height requirement. He stated that the architecture matches the house and the neighborhood and the Plan Commission recommended approval of the Conditional Use Permit for a maximum height of 22 feet. Mr. Darnold added that no objections were expressed at the public hearing, and this situation has only occurred once in twenty years, to his knowledge.

MOTION by Radermacher, second by O’Connell, to approve the Conditional Use Permit for Gregory Smith, 715 Eighth Street, for a garage to be a maximum height of 22 feet. O’Malley asked if there were any other outbuildings on the property. Mr. Darnold replied “No.” All ayes, motion carried.

Final Development Plans for St. Croix Basin Offices, 3,350 square feet office building at 118 Buckeye Street – Bob Treise: denny Darnold reported that the Plan Commission recommended approval for the proposed office building. He stated that he had reviewed the plans for off-street parking with compatibility to the existing building and found them sufficient. A letter of credit for street restoration and City inspections would also be needed. Information was provided concerning the requirement for elevator access in the building. Mr. Darnold stated that the plans needed approval by the Wisconsin Department of Commerce, and this could also be made a condition of approval, if Council desired. Discussion was held concerning parking spaces. The storm sewer system, runoff, and possible problems were also discussed. Jim Eulberg reported that a private storm sewer would be used and the City would not be responsible for cleaning it.

MOTION by Koch, second by Radermacher, to approve the Final Development Plans for the St. Croix Basis Offices at 118 Buckeye Street with the developer to provide a Letter of Credit in the amount of $6,125 to assure the restoration of the street, curb and gutter and boulevard areas and associated City inspections, and review of the elevator by the State of Wisconsin. It was noted that the building would contain leased spaces, and additional discussion regarding the use of the building took place. Ayes (5); O’Malley voted No, MOTION CARRIED.

Review bids and award contract re: Flap Gate for the 4^th Street/5^th Street, Vine Street/Elm Street Stormwater Improvement Project: MOTION by Radermacher, second by O’Connell, to approve the bid from Zappa Brothers in the amount of $4,680 for the flap gate for the 4^th and 5^th Street/Vine and Elm Street Stormwater Improvement Project. All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

Discontinuance of the unimproved alleyways between 11^th and 12^th Streets and south of Fillmore Street – Resolution No. 5-06: mayor Breault announced Resolution 5-06 has already had a first reading. Attorney Munkittrick reviewed a change she made since the first reading that included information that the resolution was started by a petition, and was included in the resolution to show that more than 50% of the owners wanted discontinuance of the alleyway. MOTION by Koch, second by Radermacher, to approve the following:

RESOLUTION NO. 5-06

Discontinuance and vacation of unpaved alleyway

(Copy on file in Clerk’s office)

Discussion included information that the Coopers have offered a five to eight-foot wide easement for the Olsons to walk or push a wheelbarrow on the north side of their property to gain access to the Olson property. It would not be an improved easement. Denny Darnold reported that he and Attorney Munkittrick did not believe that an easement should be a condition of the discontinuance of the alleyway, but it could be an agreement between the property owners. Attorney Munkittrick stated they were welcome to do so and advised each to seek legal counsel.

Denny Darnold gave additional information regarding the estimated cost for improvements to the alleyway. A preliminary amount of $20,000 did not include guardrails or any consideration for storm drainage. Discussion also included whether the City had the authority to change the dedicated alleyway to something else. Vote taken, Ayes (5), Wyland voted No, MOTION CARRIED.

Application of J L & M, Inc. for Class B Beer and Class B liquor license d/b/a Twisted Grille, 501 Second Street, for the period 6/5/06 to 6/30/06: attorney Munkittrick called attention to the original application for a new Class B Beer and Class B Liquor license at 501 Second Street for the period June 5, 2006 through June 30, 2006. She stated that approval would have to be contingent upon surrender of the current license held by E & E Adventures. The Wisconsin Department of Revenue would also have to notify the City that all issues have been taken care of to their satisfaction. She noted that approval would also have to be contingent on approval by the Building Inspector. MOTION by O’Connell, second by O’Malley, to consider issuance of a Class B Beer and Class B Liquor License to J L & M Inc. d/b/a the Twisted Grille at 501 Second Street contingent upon surrender of the current license held by E & E Adventures, notification from the Department of Revenue there is no successor liability or that issues have been taken care of to their satisfaction, and approval from the Building Inspector. Discussion included information that the annual renewal application (for 2006-2007) is on file and would be on the June 19^th Council meeting agenda. All ayes, (6) MOTION CARRIED.

Annual renewal of alcoholic beverage licenses: attorney Munkittrick advised that the renewal application from E & E Adventures, LLC would not need to be included, and the application of Ward Management of Hudson, Ltd., doing business as Pizza Hut, could not be approved due to outstanding property tax amounts and utility charges owed to the City. She stated she would send a letter to Ward Management notifying them of the issues and the procedures to be followed. If payment is received, the renewal of the annual license could be considered at the June 19^th Council meeting, or they could request a hearing. MOTION by O’Malley, second by O’Connell to approve the following alcoholic beverage licenses for the period 7/1/06 to 6/30/07, contingent on successful completion of the inspections by the Building Inspector:

"CLASS B" LIQUOR & "B" BEER (Full liquor licenses)

Hudson Wisconsin Country Club Inc. Barker's Landing, Inc. Cuisine Enterprise,Inc.

Dba Hudson Golf Club Dba: Barker's Bar & Grill Dba: Winzer Stube

Agent: Rebecca J. Koepke Agent: Peter T. Foster Agent: Marie Schmidt

201 Carmichael Road 413 Second Street 516 Second Street

Double Diamond Ventures, Inc. Gourmet Systems Of Minnesota, Inc.

Dba: Pier 500 Dba: Applebee's Neighborhood Grill & Bar

Agent: Andrew Kron Agent: Cedric Ellingson

500 First Street 2201 Coulee Road

Dick's Bar Of Hudson, Inc. Hag, Inc. Westin Inc.

Dba: Dick's Bar Dba: Pudges Bar And Liquor Store Dba: Hotel Dibbo

Agent: Paul E. Kremer Agent: Candice J. Murphy Agent:Charles Mcgee

111 Walnut Street 302 & 304 Second Street 517 Second Street

D & J' S Of Hudson, Inc. Wismin Hospitality LLC Sports Club Inc.

Dba: Hudson Bowling Center Dba: San Pedro Café Dba: Sports Club

Agent: Dan Klatt Agent: Peter Foster Agent: Dana Smith

1801 Ward Avenue, Plaza 94 426 Second Street 601 Second Street

Retsub Inc. Sharon Horne-Ellstrom LLC

Dba: Best Western Hudson House Inn Dba: Stucci’s Italian Food & Spirits

Agent: Stuart H. Schultz Agent: Sharon Horne-Ellstrom

1616 Crest View Drive 417 Second Street

Fiesta LLC Northstar Hospitality LLC

Dba: La Fiesta Mexicana Dba: Green Mill Restaurant And Bar

Agent: Tranquilino Fuentes Agent: Philip Koppy

1801 Ward Avenue, Plaza 94 2410 Gateway Boulevard

(Reserve License) (Reserve License)

"CLASS A" LIQUOR & "A" BEER (Off-sale liquor stores)

Hudson Warehouse Liquors Inc. Spirit Seller, Ltd.

Dba: Hudson Warehouse Liquor Dba: Spirit Seller Ltd.

Agent: Shane Benoy Agent: Richard Fey

1810 Webster Street 203 Second Street

Van’s Liquor Store LLC Chicone's Liquor, Inc.

Dba: Northland Liquors Dba: Chicone's Liquor Mart

Agent: Randy Morrissette Ii Agent: Richard Chicone

1801 Ward Ward Avenue, Suite 260 2312 A Crest View Drive

Historic Casanova Liquors LLC

Dba: Historic Casanova Liquors

Agent: John Gaffer

236 Coulee Road

("Class A" Liquor, "A" Beer, & Wholesale Beer)

“CLASS C” WINE & "B" BEER (Beer and wine)

Dragon Pearl Chinese Restaurant, Inc. Bordenave Land Holdings, LLC

Dba: Dragon Pearl Chinese Restaurant Dba: Brick’s Neapolitan Pizza

Agent: John Wai-Sum Kwok Agent: Kevin Bordenave

431 Second Street 407 Second Street

St Croix Hospitality Inc. Buddy Boyz Enterprises Ltd The Nova Of Hudson LLC

Dba: Café La Post Dba: Patrizio’s Pizzeria Dba: The Nova

Agent: Donald Maysack Agent: John Brendel Agent: John Gaffer

225 Locust Street 816 Carmichael Road 236 Coulee Road, Suite 2

CLASS "B" BEER (Beer only)

Mei S. Xiao

Dba: Kingdom Buffet

2312 Crest View Drive

Vote taken, Ayes (5); Morrissette abstained from the discussion and vote; MOTION CARRIED.

Update on Projects: Engineer Angela Popenhagen reported that several projects have been completed and BRA was monitoring those that needed more aggressive action. She noted that some letters were sent which included timelines to be followed. Ms. Popenhagen stated that if the developers fail to perform, they would begin to use the Letters of Credit. She stated that information would be coming for the 6^th Street washout repair. Radermacher requested that action be taken to have the triple turn lane in place on Crest View Drive at Carmichael Road. Popenhagen stated that they have met with the Wisconsin DOT and the Tourism Department, and that funding for capital improvements needs to be in place to become a budget item for next year. Discussion was held regarding seeking permission from the DOT to mark the triple turn lane.

The Riverwalk Project and Walnut Street extension were also discussed. Popenhagen stated she had been in contact with the Wisconsin DOT, and they had recommended continuing the design phase for the lighting, walkway improvements, and shelter facility, and to prepare them in a bid package. She noted that the Riverwalk is one of four projects being considered for federal funding of up to $100,000 that might be available. Mayor Breault suggested writing to Congressman Ron Kind’s office to encourage them to give the project full consideration.

Boat parking and anchoring ordinance – Ordinance No. 10-06: attorney Munkittrick recommended a first reading of the ordinance. She noted that the ordinance would be reviewed by the Park Board and Public Safety Committee, and the DNR had some issues that needed to be addressed. MOTION by O’Malley, second by Radermacher to conduct a first reading on Ordinance No. 10-06. All ayes, MOTION CARRIED.

Memorandum of Understanding re: operation of public safety watercraft: st. Croix E.M.S. Chief Eric Christensen announced that a Memorandum of Understanding was in place between the Police Department and St. Croix E.M.S. regarding the 22-foot Boston Whaler rescue boat. He stated that the watercraft would be available for dive rescues, medical emergencies and police issues. He stated that the St. Croix Marina is allowing the boat to be docked there. Mr. Christensen stated this was for information only; no action was required.

Appointment of Second Alternate to Board of Zoning Appeals: Mayor Breault announced his appointment of Mary Senkus as Second Alternate on the Board of Zoning Appeals. MOTION by O’Malley, second by O’Connell, to confirm the appointment of Mark Senkus, 139 Stratford Way, as Second Alternate on the Board of Zoning Appeals through April of 2007. All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

Comprehensive Plan – residential and business survey reports, and determine follow-up/use by Council and Committees: mayor Breault announced that the results of the Comprehensive Plan residential and business surveys were compiled and the report is on file in the Clerk’s office. O’Malley stated he wished to acknowledge the businesses and residents who responded to the survey, and noted that it appeared one of the major concerns was the downtown parking situation. He also reported that approximately two-thirds of the people who responded indicated interest in a new Library building. Additional discussion was held regarding the survey results. Denny Darnold pointed out that copies of the report could be seen at the Library, Star Observer, School District, and Chamber of Commerce. He stated the report would also be posted on the City’s website in the near future. Copies could also be purchased at the City Clerk’s office.

Mr. Darnold reminded that the survey results were compiled by the University of Wisconsin at River Falls, and not by any City staff. The topic of the property tax system was also covered; it was noted that it was too complicated to include in the survey results. Additional information about property taxes was discussed. Mayor Breault stated he would like the Council and Plan Commission to get together to analyze each portion of the report and determine long and short-range plans, along with making it part of the City’s Comprehensive Plan. Additional discussion took place regarding the City’s portion of property taxes being only 25% of the total.

Mayor Breault reported that the next step would be analysis of the survey for use in future planning.

COMMUNICATIONS AND ITEMS FOR FUTURE AGENDAS: Morrissette requested information on a pavement management program. O’Malley stated he would provide him with information from a PASER Roadware worksheet from the Public Works Department.

MOTION by O’Connell, second by Radermacher, to adjourn the meeting. All ayes (6). MOTION CARRIED. Meeting adjourned at 8:27 p.m.

Nancy Norvold, City Clerk

I hereby certify that the City Clerk has submitted the foregoing minutes to me, and I hereby by my signature approve said minutes and all acts of the Common Council as sent forth therein.

 Jack D. Breault, Mayor