CITY OF HUDSON COMMON COUNCIL

MEETING MINUTES OF MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2006

Meeting called to order by Mayor Jack Breault in the Council Chambers of City Hall at 7:00 p.m.

Mayor Breault led those assembled in the Pledge of Allegiance.

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, Angela Popenhagen, Paul Larson, Gordon Conard, Dennis Darnold, Betty Caruso, Marty Jensen, Bill Rubin, Randy Hanson, Brian Zeller, David Robson, Eric Christensen, Wes Halvorsen, Jim Frye, Jim Eulberg, and others.

COMMENTS AND SUGGESTIONS FROM CITIZENS PRESENT: Bill Rubin, Executive Director of the St. Croix Economic Development Corporation, announced there would be an organized United St. Croix Valley Legislative Days event in Madison on February 13 and 14, 2007. He stated that a group representing businesses from Pierce, Polk, and St. Croix Counties would be working to identify legislative issues on behalf of this region. He invited people to complete a worksheet to help identify potential issues and also welcomed them to attend. He also reported that Secretary Roberta Gassman from the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development would be in Hudson on October 3^rd as the keynote speaker at a luncheon at the Hudson Golf Club. Mr. Rubin noted that Secretary Gassman would be available for questions after her speech.

CONSENT AGENDA: MOTION by Morrissette, second by O’Malley, to approve the following Consent Agenda items:

MINUTES: Approve the Regular Meeting minutes and Closed Session minutes of 9/5/06.

Certified Survey Map for one commercial lot and one outlot south of Stageline Road and west of Center Drive – Ban Tara, LLC: Approve the Certified Survey Map for one commercial lot and one outlot south of Stageline Road and west of Center Drive as proposed by Ban Tara, LLC, with the condition that the City shall not execute the CSM until the Development Agreement has been executed.

Claims: Approve the following claims for payment:

Fund	Description	PAYABLES	PAYROLL	Totals
100	General	235,839.15	125,415.39	361,254.54
230	Wisc DVL/RVL	1,985.00	0.00	1,985.00
231	SCBP-RVL Loan	3,600.00	0.00	3,600.00
280	Park Donations	1,200.00	0.00	1,200.00
610	Sewer	15,915.78	10,139.95	26,055.73
620	Parking Utility	4,037.21	751.24	4,788.45
630	Ambulance	21,433.99	7,513.42	28,947.41
	TOTALS	$284,011.13	$143,820.00	$427,831.13

Applications for Operator’s Licenses: Approve the issuance of Regular Operator’s Licenses for the period September 19, 2006 to June 30, 2008 to:

Michael P. Brochtrup 2549 C Cobble Hill Ct. Woodbury, MN

Joseph A. Schmahl P.O. Box 222 River Falls, WI

And the issuance of Temporary Operator’s Licenses to be used at the Hudson Hockey Association’s Pig Roast event on September 30, 2006 to:

Lynette Rae Beinlich 927 Ridge Pass Hudson, WI

Teri G. Meyer 233 Station Circle N. Hudson, WI

Application of Hudson Hockey Association for Temporary Class “B”/”Class B” Retailer’s license to sell beer at a Pig Roast event to be held 9/30/06 at 1820 Hanley Road, Hudson, WI: Approve the issuance of a Temporary Class “B”/”Class B” Retailer’s license to the Hudson Hockey Association to sell beer at a Pig Roast event to be held 9/30/06 at 1820 Hanley Road, Hudson, WI.

Request for YMCA Torchlight Night Run at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 28, 2006, with the event to begin at the YMCA on Vine Street and end in Lakefront Park: Approve the YMCA Torchlight Night Run to be held on Saturday, October 28, 2006 at 5:30 p.m., with the event to begin at the YMCA on Vine Street and end in Lakefront Park, using all safety measures as recommended, and the use of Casual Call Patrol Officers to be paid by the YMCA.

Request for 15-minute parking at 307 Second Street: Approve the designation of two 15-minute parking spaces at 307 Second Street, with signage indicating 15-minute free parking from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

REPORTS OF CITY OFFICIALS, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS: Place on file the Quarterly Report of the City Clerk and the Community Access Board minutes of 8/22/06.

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

Update on purchase of speed monitoring signs: Police Department Sgt. Marty Jensen provided an update on the purchase of speed monitoring signs. He stated that new information was discovered regarding the shorter length of the battery life. He also reported that Mayor Breault found a program through the 3M Company called “Safe Routes to School” and federal and state grants could be sought to purchase the speed monitoring devices. It was noted that a 3M representative was scheduled to make a presentation at the October 4^th Public Safety Committee meeting. Sgt. Jensen explained that the Finance Committee recommended pursuing the latest option.

update on temporary off-site facility for St. Croix E.M.S. personnel: St. Croix E.M.S. Chief Eric Christensen provided an update on the temporary off-site facility for E.M.S. personnel. He stated that an apartment located at 412½ Second Street was within walking distance of the Public Safety Building and would meet their needs. Information was provided concerning the EMS Off-site Station Policy and the Lease Agreement, with a one-year requirement. It was noted that the rent would be $800 per month, including utilities, but telephone and TV hookups would be needed. It was noted that the Finance Committee recommended approval. MOTION by Radermacher, second by O’Malley, to approve the temporary off-site facility for St. Croix E.M.S. personnel at 412½ Second Street, and entering into a one-year lease at a cost of $800 per month. All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

Review bids received for purchase of 3,200-gallon tanker truck for Fire Department: fire Chief Jim Frye spoke about the proposed purchase of a new tanker truck. He stated that he posted and advertised for bids and one bid was received from General Safety in Wyoming, MN. He stated that the company met all the specifications, with no exceptions. Chief Frye noted that the Finance Committee recommended approval, and the City would have to issue bonds for the project.

motion by O’Malley, second by Radermacher, to approve the purchase of a 3,200-gallon tanker truck in the amount of $371,683.00 from General Safety Equipment in Wyoming, MN. All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

Long term contract for use of West Central Wisconsin Biosolids Facility: o’malley provided a brief history of the Regional Biosolids Facility, noting that it was established in 1995, and is owned and operated by 11 municipalities. The facility also serves 9 additional municipalities under long-term service agreements. O’Malley stated that the City’s agreement expires in 2015, and the facility would have difficulty issuing bonds for 15 years if the agreement only existed for 9 more years. MOTION by O’Malley, second by Radermacher, to approve extending the term of the City’s contract for use of the West Central Wisconsin Biosolids Facility to the year 2025. In discussion, it was noted that the other participating municipalities have signed similar agreements. It was explained that the City’s portion of responsibility for the facility was 17% and all other terms in the contract remained the same. All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

Coulee Road and 11^th Street intersection improvements: o’malley reviewed the Coulee Road and 11^th Street intersection improvements. He stated that the southbound traffic on 11^th Street does not have a left-turn lane onto Coulee Road, resulting in a bottleneck problem in the morning, during lunchtime, and during the afternoon rush hour. He also noted that fairly new left-turn lanes were installed in the eastbound, westbound, and northbound lanes at that intersection. O’Malley reported that the Public Works Committee believed that the area has been studied enough, and additional traffic pattern analysis would not be necessary. He explained that in order to move forward with this proposal, the City would need to acquire more land on the west side of 11^th Street, and noted that the owners of the condo facility have contacted the City regarding that possibility. It was also noted that a fire hydrant would have to be moved and funding for the $40,000 project would need to be secured before proceeding. No action was needed at this time. Mayor Breault pointed out that he, Administrator Willi, and the engineers would negotiate and continue to pursue the project.

Fall Leaf Collection Program/Dates: O’malley announced the dates for the Fall Leaf Collection Program. He explained that City residents would have a free drop-off site for the disposal of leaves and grass clippings; no other materials would be allowed. The drop-off site at the City of Hudson west garage, 1421 Second Street, would begin October 21st through November 4^th, from Noon until 7:00 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, and 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturdays. Curbside pickup would also be available for $1.00 per bag, and must be arranged with Veolia Services. MOTION by O’Malley, second by Wyland, to approve dates for the Fall Leaf Collection Program, as submitted. It was also noted that open burning of leaves is not allowed. All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

Discuss recommendation to establish a task force to assess Police, Fire and EMS space needs: radermacher reported that the Public Safety Committee made a recommendation to establish a task force to assess the space needs of the Police Department, Fire Department, and St. Croix E.M.S. He noted that the task force could begin discussions regarding a possible time frame, costs, locations, etc. Mayor Breault suggested that a committee be formed to discuss the topics. MOTION by O’Malley, second by O’Connell, to authorize Mayor Breault to form a task force committee regarding the space needs of the Police, Fire and Ambulance Departments. Discussion included possible building sites and the timeliness of the project. All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

Lakefront Park – proposed stairway project near Bathhouse: Public Works and Parks Director Jim Eulberg explained the chronic erosion problem occurring on the west side of the Bathhouse in Lakefront Park, near the existing walkway trail. He noted that Bailey Construction provided an estimate of $7,500 to install a colored, texturized concrete stairway with railing, and that the project was included in the budget. MOTION by O’Malley, second by Radermacher, to approve the Lakefront Park Stairway Project, as proposed. All ayes, MOTION CARRIED.

Update on Projects: Engineer Angela Popenhagen reported that the Hanley Road Storm Sewer Project was moving along. She noted that the Riverwalk Park Shelter was delayed due to changes requested by the Park Board and to allow responses for funding from the DNR and Ron Kind. It was noted that if the project begins prior to approval, the funding would not qualify for reimbursement.

Costs for possible extension of walkway on Hanley Road: Ms. Popenhagen presented cost estimate information for extending the bituminous trail on the south side of Hanley Road, in conjunction with the Hanley Road Storm Sewer Project. She provided three options for consideration: 1) to extend the trail to a point 251 feet west at an estimated cost of $10,416.75; 2) to extend the trail to Namekagon Street, allowing the trail to intersect with the nearest street, for a total length of 628 feet and an approximate cost of $25,209.80; 3) to not extend the bituminous trail as part of the Storm Sewer Project. Discussion included information regarding the width of the path and the cost of bituminous. MOTION by O’Connell, second by O’Malley, to advertise again for bids for the extension of the Hanley Road pathway extended to Namekagon Street. All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

Request for annual High School Homecoming Parade on the afternoon of Friday, October 6, 2006, beginning at 911 Fourth Street, Myrtle to Second Street, and south on Second Street to Coulee Road: Police Department Sgt. Marty Jensen reported that the High School was requesting permission for the Homecoming Parade to be held October 6^th, and similar to those held in the past. He explained the parade route and noted that the State has given permission to divert traffic from Second Street (Highway 35). He also noted that on-duty Patrol Officers and Homecoming volunteers would work to provide traffic control. He stated that the parade was a popular event, and he recommended approval.

MOTION by Radermacher, second by Wyland, to approve the Hudson High School Homecoming parade on Friday, October 6, 2006, as presented. All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED.

COMMUNICATIONS AND ITEMS FOR FUTURE AGENDAS: Mayor Breault expressed concern for the vandalism and problems at the Bathhouse and Prospect Park. Suggestions were given regarding possibly changing the park hours and enforcement of burning without a permit. MOTION by Wyland, second by O’Malley, to direct the City Attorney to investigate whether changes to the City Code are needed to include the suggestions. Discussion included the timeliness and need for the changes to be effective as soon as possible. Attorney Munkittrick advised that action could not be taken, as the item was not on the agenda. MOTION RESCINDED by Wyland, second by O’Malley. It was agreed that Attorney Munkittrick and Mayor Breault would review the topic and advise the best procedures.

Radermacher announced that he would like to coordinate the groundbreaking ceremony for the Riverwalk Park Shelter. It was determined that the event would be held on October 11^th at 8:30 a.m. Radermacher will work with City Staff to send announcements to Hudson Rotary Club members, City officials, and the media.

O’Connell requested additional information regarding the recent fire at a residence in Red Cedar Canyon.

Dennis Darnold provided an update regarding the possible development of the River City Center property. He stated that the developer had requested the City to consider selling or disposing of City property on the west side of the River City Center. Mr. Darnold noted that this matter should be a Finance Committee and Plan Commission agenda item. Information was shared concerning a presentation by the developer to the members of the St. Croix Marina.

Administrator Devin Willi noted that the preliminary figures indicated only a $156,000 increase would be allowed in the City’s tax levy. He noted that Department Head budgets were due on September 15^th and the budget process continues. He also invited the public to attend the Pig Roast event and open skating at the Hudson Hockey arena to be held September 30^th from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

CLOSED SESSION pursuant to §19.85(1)(c), Wis. Stats. to discuss possible RECLASSIFICATION of a clerical employee: MOTION by Radermacher, second by O’Malley to convene into Closed Session pursuant to §19.85(1)(c), Wis. Stats. to discuss the possible reclassification of a clerical employee. Roll call vote, All ayes (6), MOTION CARRIED at 7:43 p.m.

Reconvene in Open Session for possible action re: REclassification of a clerical employee: MOTION by O’Malley, second by O’Connell, to reconvene into Open Session for possible action regarding the reclassification of a clerical employee. All ayes, (6), MOTION CARRIED at 7:50 p.m.

MOTION by O’Malley, second by Wyland, to direct Jim Eulberg to proceed with plans to incorporate an increase and reclassification of Deb Andrews from Administrative Assistant I to Administrative Assistant II, with the increase in salary and benefits (in the proposed budget) not to exceed a total of $4,000 beginning 1/1/07. All ayes, MOTION CARRIED.

MOTION by Radermacher, second by O’Malley, to adjourn at 7:59 p.m. All ayes (6). MOTION CARRIED.

Nancy 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 sent forth therein.

Jack D. Breault, Mayor