Meeting called to order by Mayor Dean Knudson in the Council Chambers of City Hall at 7:00 p.m.  Mayor Knudson led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance.

 

PRESENT:  Mayor Knudson and Alderpersons Randy Morrissette, Pam Brokaw, Lori Bernard, Lee Wyland, Scot O’Malley and Alan Burchill.

 

OTHERS PRESENT:  Devin Willi, Catherine Munkittrick, Betty Caruso, Gordon Conard, Tom Zeuli, Denny Darnold, Marty Jensen, Greg Ellstrom, Jim Frye, Glen Hartman, Dag Selander, Ruth Peterson, Linda Donaldson, Betsy Lundeen, Beverly Radermacher, George Radermacher, Eric Atkinson, Evy Nerbonne, Peter Bernard, Stephen Pederson, James O’Shea, Mike Jordan, David Gray, Paul Larson, Ron Troyer, Ben Wasmund, Randy Hanson, Adam Danielson, Stacia Dove, and others.

 

COMMENTS AND SUGGESTIONS FROM CITIZENS PRESENT:  Mayor Knudson called for comments and suggestions from citizens present three times; none were given.

 

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

 

MINUTES:  Approve the Regular Meeting minutes of 8/17/09.

 

CLAIMS:  Approve the following claims for payment:

 

FUND

DESCRIPTION

PAYABLES

PAYROLL

TOTALS

100

General

179,189.98

361,035.31

540,225.29

290

Police Donations

40.00

0.00

40.00

450

Capital Projects

52,148.20

0.00

52,148.20

610

Sewer

32,245.73

26,834.04

59,079.77

620

Parking

1,634.88

2,805.73

4,440.61

630

Ambulance

14,673.55

33,917.12

48,590.67

 

            TOTALS

279,932.34

424,592.20

704,524.54

 

 Application of Hudson Hockey Association for Temporary Class “B” Retailer’s License to sell beer at a pig roast event on September 25-27, 2009 at 1820 Hanley Road:  Approve the issuance of a Temporary Class “B” Retailer’s License to the Hudson Hockey Association to sell beer at their Pig Roast event September 26, 2009 at 1820 Hanley Road.

 

Chamber of commerce requests for designation of several Community Events:  Approve designating the following as Community Events to allow exemptions for direct sellers: Hudson Hilltop Pumpkin Party – October 24th; Light Up Night, November 27th; Candlelight Stroll – December 4th; Reindeer in the Park – December 5th; and the Hudson Hot Air Affair - February 5-7, 2010.

 

 

Request for reclassification of Municipal Court clerk to          Administrative Assistant I position:  Approve the reclassification of the Municipal Court Clerk to the Administrative Assistant I position, Grade 14, level F at $20.36 per hour.

 

REPORTS OF CITY OFFICIALS, BOARDS, and COMMISSIONS:  Place on file the quarterly reports of the Parks & Public Works Director and Wastewater Director, and the Community Access Board minutes of 8/25/09.

 

 Roll call vote:  Ayes (6).  MOTION CARRIED.

 

Applications for Operator’s Licenses:  Mayor Knudson stated that the Finance Committee recommended approval of the list of applicants presented on the issue sheet.  Morrissette recused himself.  MOTION by Wyland, second by O’Malley to approve the issuance of Regular Operator’s Licenses for the period 9/9/09 to 6/30/11 to: 

 

Susan K. Anderson          16414 3rd Street           Lakeland, MN

Tracee D. Anderson         1273 Hwy N                 Roberts, WI

Sienna L. Bahlmann         301 7th Street             Hudson, WI

Taylor L. Evans            2449 H Dawes Place         River Falls, WI

Tracy S. Gardow            252 Oak Knoll Drive        Chippewa Falls, WI

Kristy A. Hart             703 W. Maple Street        River Falls, WI

Stephanie Jo Lindquist     762 160th Street           Hammond, WI

Donald A. Littleton        1601 Aspen Dr. #283        Hudson, WI

Aaron M. Ludgatis          529 Trillium Lane          Hudson, WI

Philip M. Magee            716 Vine Street            Hudson, WI

Kevin R. Nelson            328 Valley Commons         Hudson, WI

Paige C. Perry             1909 Industrial St. #2     Hudson, WI

Andrea D. Peterson         1801 Industrial St. #1     Hudson, WI

Scott A. Radunzel          1021 Fourth Street         Hudson, WI

Molly A. Ruoho             5340 Monarda Ave. N.       Stillwater, MN

Barbara A. Schroeder       903 St. Croix Street       Hudson, WI

Molly J. Severson          473 Jefferson Street       River Falls, WI

Breann M. Spencer          1021˝ Fourth Street        Hudson, WI

 

And the issuance of Temporary Operator’s Licenses to be used 9/25-9/27/09 during the Hockey Association’s Annual Pig Roast to the following:

 

Trisha K. Danielson        705 Crosby Drive                Hudson, WI

Kerri A. Hanson            2300 Emerald Court         Hudson, WI

Elizabeth A. Lundeen       676 Cottage Lane                Hudson, WI

 

Ayes, (5) MOTION CARRIED.

   

Review bids submitted and consider awarding 2009-10 fuel contract:  Mayor Knudson stated the Finance Committee recommended awarding the 2009-2010 fuel contract to Yocum Oil Company Inc. who submitted the low bid of $2.46 for diesel fuel and $2.25 for No-lead gasoline.  He noted 3 bids were received.  MOTION by Burchill, second by Bernard to approve the fuel bids for 2009-2010 as submitted by Yocum Oil Company Inc.  Ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

 

Request of Sharon Horne-Ellstrom to amend the premises description      on the liquor license to include a deck area for Ellie’s on Main, 417 2nd Street:  MOTION by Morrissette, second by Bernard to approve the request to amend the premises description from Sharon Horne-Ellstrom for Ellie’s On Main as requested, to include a 20’ X 40’ deck, with the staff recommendation that the amended license be issued contingent on successful completion of the project and issuance of the occupancy permit.  O’Malley voiced his concern regarding noise from the open deck and the need for licensed operator’s to be present.  Discussion was held regarding possible problems in the alleyway, having the bouncers who work at the deck stairway be licensed, and having cameras in place that the dispatch center could have access to.  Mr. Greg Ellstrom, from the establishment, stated it would not be a hardship to have the bouncers become licensed operators, no music would be played on the deck, he is willing to work with the Police Department regarding any noise situations, and wiring for a camera could be added.  Mayor Knudson also pointed out that he believed the request was being driven by the indoor smoking ban which becomes effective in July of 2010, and that similar requests could be expected for Council consideration from other licensed establishments.  Morrissette called the question.  Ayes (5); Noes (1) - O’Malley.  MOTION CARRIED.

 

Application of Big Ring Flyers Bicycle Club for Temporary Class               “B” Retailer’s License to sell beer at the Oktoberfest event October 2-3, 2009 in Lakefront Park and request approval as a Community Event:  MOTION by Burchill, second by Brokaw to approve the application issuance of a Temporary Class ”B” Retailers license to sell beer at the Oktoberfest event October 2-3, 2009 in Lakefront Park and to approve as a Community Event.  Mayor Knudson noted the Finance Committee discussed the application and event plans.  He stated they were comfortable with the layout, fencing, and wristband method for control as presented.  He also noted the City Attorney advised there is no written definition regarding designation as a Community Event. 

 

The need for a large assembly permit was also discussed.  Mayor Knudson stated since the coordinators do not expect more than 1,000 people to attend they do not need to apply for that permit this year and that since the club is a non-profit organization they qualify to get temporary operator’s licenses.  O’Malley questioned whether the motion included the staff and Public Safety Committee recommendations.  MOTION AMENDED by Burchill, and seconded by Brokaw to include that licensed operators be approved before issuance of the picnic license and that adequate restroom facilities be provided.  Dag Selander stated they will get six portable satellites in addition to use of the bathhouse restrooms.  Ayes (6) MOTION CARRIED.  

 

Bowmar Assessment Maintenance Contract and job description for the Assessor/Assistant Building Inspector      position:  MOTION by Morrissette, second by Bernard to approve the Bowmar Assessment Maintenance Contract and job description for the Assessor/Assistant Building Inspector position.  Ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

 

Review costs for installing street lights on Hunter Hill Road, and consider Preliminary Resolution No. 15-09 re: Special Assessments:  Burchill advised that the Public Works Department recommended the installation of three street lights, plus administrative costs, for a total of $3,350.00, and to assess the amount to specific homeowners, to bill operational costs to the Homeowner’s Association, and to schedule a public hearing.  Bernard offered her opinion that the Association should pay for the cost of the installation of the lights, and that the City should pay for the cost of electricity.  MOTION by Burchill, second by O’Malley to proceed with the Public Works recommendation of scheduling a public hearing, and to assess the homeowners on Hunter Hill Road between Grandview Drive and Wisconsin Street for the administrative costs and installation of three additional street lights. 

 

Discussion included street lighting in other parts of the City, the possibility of similar requests in the future, lighting standards, and the developer’s responsibility.  Ron Troyer, 1721 Hunter Hill Road, requested installation of street lights for safety reasons and felt they should have been included during development of the area.  He advised that a Hunter Hill Road homeowner’s association would not accept the charges for the cost of the electricity.  Burchill withdrew his motion.  Additional discussion was held regarding safety, lighting guidelines, and costs.  Mr. Troyer noted there are two homeowner associations involved, he represented one, and offered to pursue the topic with the other association.  MOTION by Morrissette, second by Wyland to postpone a decision until the next meeting, or until the associations have had a chance to meet and reach a decision about paying for the lighting.  Ayes (6) MOTION CARRIED. 

  

City Hall Parking Lot stairway repair/replacement costs:  Mayor Knudson stated the deteriorated condition of two sets of stairs that are used to access the City Hall parking lot and alley.  The Public Works Committee, staff, and Mayor recommend the steps be replaced in 2009.  Public Works and Parks Director Tom Zeuli stated bids were received and that Starks Metal Works was the low bidder for two sets of stairs.  It was noted the City crew could remove the existing stairs.  Discussion was held concerning the option of repairing instead of replacing, and funding.  MOTION by Morrissette, second by O’Malley to approve the Public Works recommendation to replace two sets of stairs at the City Hall parking lot with metal steps in the amount of $12,930.00 to be paid for from the 2009 note proceeds.  MOTION AMENDED by Morrissette and seconded by O’Malley to have the Parking Utility contribute 50% of the costs and the remaining 50% to be funded from the 2009 note proceeds.  Ayes (6) MOTION CARRIED.

   

Foxglove Way sidewalk improvements:  MOTION by Burchill, second by O’Malley to authorize Bailey Construction to proceed with the installation of sidewalks on Foxglove Way in the amount of $9,500.00.  It was noted the improvements would be paid for by the previous developer, funds are being held in an escrow account, and work could still be completed in 2009.  Ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

 

Review costs for demolition of silo at Weitkamp Park.  Mayor Knudson stated that painting the silo had previously been considered, but now it is best to consider removal.  Wyland suggested repairing the historical structure and finding a use for it.  It was noted the Park Board recommended removal by a vote of four to one.

 

MOTION by Morrissette, second by Brokaw to accept the recommendation from the Park Board and approve the bid from Boumeester & Sons in the amount of $2,240.00 for removal of the silo at Weitkamp Park. Discussion was held concerning possible uses and safety.  Public Works and Parks Director Tom Zeuli reported that the structure is deteriorating quickly; holes have been filled in the past but didn’t last, and water comes in the top.  Even if the current hole is repaired, it would need additional repairs and continual maintenance.  Ayes (5); Noes (1) - Wyland. MOTION CARRIED.   

 

UPDATE ON PROJECTS:  Bonestroo Engineer Chuck Schwartz provided a written update on projects, but was not able to be present at the meeting.  As part of the update regarding the 11th Street Improvement project, Bonestroo staff provided information about the intersection of Coulee Road and 11th Street.   Public Works and Parks Director Tom Zeuli presented four options offered for consideration as a change order to the project.  It was noted that October 15th would be the last day allowed for concrete work.  MOTION by O’Malley, second by Wyland to approve adding a pedestrian ramp and curb cut (Option #2) as part of the 11th Street project for an additional amount of $5,500. Discussion was held regarding future sidewalk possibilities, other options, and safety concerns.  Vote taken by show of hands, Ayes (3) – O’Malley, Wyland and Morrissette; Noes (3) - Bernard, Brokaw and Burchill.  Mayor Knudson broke the tie by voting yes.  MOTION CARRIED.  

 

Consider awarding contract for Coulee Road Mill and Overlay Project, and approve Final Resolution No. 14-09 authorizing Coulee Road Special Assessments:  MOTION by Morrissette, second by O’Malley to suspend the rules toward adoption of Resolution No. 14-09.  Roll call vote:  Ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.  MOTION by O’Malley, second by Brokaw, to award the Coulee Road Mill and Overlay Project to Monarch Paving in the amount of $146,631.10, and to adopt the following:

RESOLUTION NO. 14-09

FINAL RESOLUTION RE: COULEE ROAD PROJECT SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS

(Copy on file in Clerk’s office)

 

Ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

   

     Report on Public Safety Building Facilities Feasibility Study – Frisbie Architects, Inc.:  Stephen Pederson, representing Frisbie Architects, Inc., and associates from Collaborative Design Group, Inc. provided a presentation and summary of the Public Safety Space Utilization and Facilities Feasibility Study report.  The report is on file in the Clerk’s office. 

 

     Mr. Pederson summarized the key points from the report including the Ad Hoc Committee work, summary recommendations, growth considerations, and the need for public safety services.  He called attention to the existing facility review including the current Police Department space in the City Hall building, and the Public Safety Building used by the Fire and EMS Departments, who also have office space in City Hall.  The working relationship between departments was noted.  Site analysis including planning considerations, training space, conceptual designs, costs, possible uses for existing buildings, and existing buildings for sale were noted. 

 

     The need to plan 10-30 years ahead, use of sub-stations, benefits of sharing some common space in one facility, and the amount of space Police, Fire, and EMS currently have in the existing buildings were reviewed.  Recommendations regarding space needs assessments for the departments were shared.

 

     Mayor Knudson thanked the representatives for their report and recommendations.  He stated the main concerns were for more space, security, and level of control in the Police Department. He noted the need to act in the near future, and to make a long range plan.  He also called attention to the additional space needs of the Library, EMS, and Fire Departments, and the possibility that if the Police Department moved, their vacated space may work well for the EMS department.  Possible locations for expansion of facilities were reviewed.

 

        Preliminary Resolution No. 16-09 for 2009 Sidewalk Replacement Program Special Assessments:  MOTION by Morrissette, second by O’Malley to suspend the rules toward adoption of Resolution No. 16-09.  Roll call vote:  Ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.  MOTION by O’Malley, second by Burchill, to adopt the following:

 

RESOLUTION NO. 16-09

PRELIMINARY RESOLUTION RE: SIDEWALK SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS

(Copy on file in Clerk’s office)

 

Ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

 

     Appointment to Hudson Housing Authority:  Mayor Knudson requested approval of his appointment of Joel Porter to the Hudson Housing Authority for a five-year term.  He noted Mr. Porter was not a resident in the City of Hudson, but that was not a requirement, and the previous representative was also an attorney.  MOTION by O’Malley, second by Burchill to approve the appointment of Joel Porter to the Hudson Housing Authority for a five year term (through July of 2014).  Ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

 

COMMUNICATIONS AND ITEMS FOR FUTURE AGENDAS:  City Administrator, Devin Willi will make copies of the Public Safety Building Facilities Report and have them available at the front desk and posted on the City’s website. 

 

     Convene into Closed Session pursuant to §19.85 (1)(e), Wis. Stats. to deliberate regarding negotiating strategy for possible purchase of property identified in the Public Safety Space and Facilities Feasibility     Study for City's public safety space needs:  MOTION by O’Malley, second by Bernard  to convene into Closed Session pursuant to §19.85 (1)(e), Wis. Stats. to deliberate regarding negotiating strategy for possible purchase of property identified in the Public Safety Space and Facilities Feasibility Study for City’s public safety space needs.  Roll call vote, Ayes (6),  MOTION CARRIED at 9:05 p.m.

 

     Reconvene in open session for possible action regarding the negotiating strategy for  possible purchase of public property:  MOTION by O’Malley, second by Wyland, to reconvene into Open Session.   Ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED at 9:48 p.m.

 

     MOTION by O’Malley, second by Wyland to authorize the Mayor and his appointed agents to work for the City regarding the purchase of the former NMC Building, with the price not to exceed the amount noted in Closed Session, plus the other terms discussed in Closed Session.  Discussion included comments from Police Chief Marty Jensen that the site would be a good short-term facility for the Department, and noted the need to continue working on long-term plans.    

 

ADJOURN:  MOTION by O’Malley, second by Wyland to adjourn.   All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED at 9:55 p.m.

 

Nancy J. Korson, 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 set forth therein.

  

Dean Knudson, Mayor