CITY OF HUDSON COMMON COUNCIL

MEETING MINUTES OF MONDAY, OCTOBER 2, 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, Paul Radermacher, Lee Wyland, Scot O’Malley and Carah Koch.

ABSENT: Alderperson Dennis O’Connell.

OTHERS PRESENT: Devin Willi, Catherine Munkittrick, Dennis Darnold, Paul Larson, Randy Hanson, Betty Caruso, Jim Eulberg, Eric Christensen, Angela Popenhagen, Dianna Johnston, Ann Hall, Harriett Gushu, Pat Smith, Al Keller, Ed Ducak, Wanda Kraemer, David Anderson, Juli Ann Anderson, Cory Pope, and others.

COMMENTS AND SUGGESTIONS FROM CITIZENS PRESENT: Mayor Breault called for comments and suggestions from Citizens present.

He invited Dianna Johnston and other members of the Hudson Rise N Shine Toastmasters organization to accept the Proclamation of October as Toastmasters Month in the City of Hudson. Ms. Johnston provided an overview of the history and purpose of the club. She invited persons who are interested to join their meetings at 7:00 a.m. in the Community Room of the Municipal Building at 911 Fourth Street.

CONSENT AGENDA: MOTION by Radermacher, second by Morrissette, to approve the following Consent Agenda items. Wyland noted that the Quarterly Report of the Parks Director was not included in the list of Consent agenda items that was read, and should be added. (Note: The Parks Director’s report was not available or included in the packet of Council meeting materials.)

MINUTES: Approve the Regular Meeting minutes and Closed Session minutes of 9/18/06.

Claims: Approve the following claims for payment:

Fund	Description	payables	payroll	Totals
100	General	203,679.97	135,079.52	338,759.49
280	Park Donations	15,228.00	0.00	15,228.00
450	Capital Projects	315.02	0.00	315.02
610	Sewer	18,469.41	10,221.26	28,690.67
620	Parking Utility	4,151.66	1,180.13	5,331.79
630	Ambulance	6,397.89	17,731.91	24,129.80
	TOTALS	$248,336.45	$164,212.82	$412,549.27

Application for Operator’s License: Approve the issuance of a Temporary Operator’s License to be used at the WinterGreen fundraising event to be held 10/13/06 to: Darrell R. Youngberg, 220 Iverson Circle, Hudson, WI

Application of the Christian Community Campus Foundation, Inc. to sell wine at a fundraising event at WinterGreen on October 13, 2006: Approve the issuance of a Temporary Class “B”/”Class B” Retailer’s license to the Christian Community Campus Foundation, Inc. to sell wine at a fundraising event to be held 10/13/06 at WinterGreen, 1312 Wisconsin Street.

Appointment of additional Election Inspectors for Republican Party: Appoint 19 additional City of Hudson Election Inspectors for the period ending December 31, 2007, as submitted by the Republican Party, as follows:

Patti Cardenas 1820 River Ridge Drive, #4

Mary Martin 1416 Wheat Grass

Lucille Gearhart 1300 D Carriage Drive

Pam Brokaw 1813 Albert Street

Marya Smith 508 Grandview Drive

Carmen Marie Baird 601 Spruce Drive

Harv Baird 601 Spruce Drive

June Waalen 1405 Frear Street

Don Mailloux 1533 Laurel Avenue

Judy Mailloux 1533 Laurel Avenue

Joy Knudson 1753 Laurel Avenue

Elizabeth McCormick 1123 Briarwood Court

Mary Redner 714 Wisconsin Street

Marilyn Henderson 626 Hickory Road

Donald F. Anderson 1019 Kinnickinnic

Gail Kotoski 1123 Fourth Street

Suzanne Wilson 809 Oak Street

Lyle Warning 2003 Chestnut Drive

REPORTS OF CITY OFFICIALS, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS: Place on file the Community Access Board minutes of 9/26/06, the St. Croix E.M.S. Commission minutes of 9/25/06, and the Zoning Board of Appeals minutes of 8/22/05.

Roll call vote, all ayes (5) – MOTION CARRIED.

Request to release and relocate utility easements, Lot 3 Block 1, Stonepine First Addition/518 Grandview Drive, and Lot 38 in Vine Hills First Addition/601 Topaz Lane – Mary Marchant, 518 Grandview Drive: community Development Director Denny Darnold reported that Mary Marchant was requesting a release of the utility easement between her lot on Grandview Drive and the adjacent lot to the east on Topaz Lane, for the possible expansion of her residence. It was noted that they hope to purchase part of the adjacent lot. Mr. Darnold stated that he had received verbal approval from Xcel Energy and AT&T West to release the easement, but still needed approval from the cable company. He stated that the relocation of the easement along the established property line would be five feet on each side of the line, or ten feet on Lot 38 in Vine Hills First Addition. He reported that all three utility companies would have to sign off on the release of the easement. MOTION by Radermacher, second by Koch to approve the release and relocation of the utility easement between Lot 3, Block 1 in Stonepine First Addition (518 Grandview Drive) and Lot 38 in Vine Hills First Addition (Topaz Lane), with the provision that the utility companies sign off on the release of the easement. All ayes (5), MOTION CARRIED.

Certified Survey Map for one-family residential lot and one outlot west of Coulee Road and south of Birkmose Park – Eric Rolland: mr. Darnold stated that the Plan Commission recommended approval of the Certified Survey Map. He explained that Mr. Rolland wished to separate the area used for private driveway and utilities access from the existing residence at 8 Birkmose Park. He stated that Mr. Rolland intends to form a Homeowners Association to assist in the maintenance of the private driveway. Mr. Darnold explained that if an association were not formed, Mr. Rolland would still be the responsible party.

MOTION by O’Malley, second by Radermacher, to approve the Certified Survey Map as proposed by Eric Rolland for one one-family residential lot and one outlot west of Coulee Road and south of Birkmose Park. Information included that the proposed subdivision would not violate the purpose of the City of Hudson subdivision code and Wisconsin Statutes, Chapter 236. All ayes, (5) MOTION CARRIED.

Renewal of Tax Collection Agreement with St. Croix County Treasurer’s Office: Mayor Breault announced that the Finance Committee recommended renewal of the Agreement with the County Treasurer’s office to collect taxes for the city at cost of 75 cents per parcel. MOTION by O’Malley, second by Morrissette, to approve the renewal of the Agreement with St. Croix County for collection of the City’s 2006 tax funds. All ayes (5), MOTION CARRIED.

Request of GCI Builders for the City to dispose of City property west of River City Center abutting First Street: denny Darnold explained the request of GCI Builders to discuss whether the City was willing to dispose of a piece of City-owned property on the west side of River City Center.

MOTION by O’Malley, second by Koch, to only discuss the topic for information only, and to refer the matter to the Plan Commission for review at their October 5^th meeting. All ayes, (5), MOTION CARRIED. Mr. Darnold stated he had concerns about the first set of plans, but a second set of plans indicated that First Street would not have to be relocated. Further information was shared about the possible location of the proposed building and parking issues. Information concerning the current water and sewer utilities was also shared.

mr. Darnold invited the representatives of GCI Builders to give a brief presentation about their proposal. Mr. Al Keller spoke about the development proposal and provided a handout that indicated the layout of the existing building and footprint of the proposed building and parking lot. Discussion was held concerning the style of building and the location of the proposed development on the property. Elevations were also discussed.

Mr. Keller explained the need for a decision by the City on whether to dispose of the City property. Discussion concerning the need to retain the City property was also held. Mayor Breault recommended that the developer provide an artist’s concept drawing to share with the Plan Commission at the October 5^th meeting.

Treasurer’s Report: Finance Officer Betty Caruso furnished a handout indicating the financial summary through August of 2006. She stated that most expenses and revenues were within budgeted amounts, but Building Permit revenues were lower than expected. This may result in an estimated $100,000 to $150,000 shortfall for the City. She recommended that this be reviewed again in November to determine funding, should the shortfall continue. Ms. Caruso noted that most Department budgets were in the 67% range and where they should be for this time of year.

Fund Balances were also discussed. Administrator Devin Willi reported that all the Department budgets for 2007 had been submitted and were under review. Adjustments will be made and the budget would later be presented to Council. He explained the tax levy increase process and that it would be difficult to stay within the $156,000 amount allowed by the State, since personnel costs are expected to be approximately $240,000 higher.

Update on Projects: Engineer Angela Popenhagen reported that the Hanley Road Storm Sewer Project was complete. She also noted that bids for the shelter and restroom portion of the Riverwalk Project have been received and would be awarded when funding was confirmed. She stated that the traffic study on Vine Street was completed and the results would be reviewed and presented at a November meeting.

Emergency siren update and recommendations: Emergency Management/St. Croix E.M.S. Chief Eric Christensen provided an update and recommendations for the City’s emergency siren system. He reviewed the type and locations of the current sirens and indicated that all three sites were checked and were functioning. He noted that maintenance was needed, including adding a battery backup and repairs to poles. Cost estimates were indicated at $900, if the City provided the boom truck, or $1,425.00 if the American Signal Company used its own equipment. Chief Christensen indicated he would continue to work on the project with Public Works Director Jim Eulberg and would seek possible grants and donations to help cover the expenses.

Street name (Pearson Drive) for road right-of-way – Resolution No. 13-06: Denny Darnold explained that a Quit Claim Deed has been recorded transferring ownership of the property to the City, and they desire to change the road from a private roadway to public right-of-way. He stated that the road would connect to the current Pearson Drive in the plat of Ban Tara.

MOTION by O’Malley, second by Morrissette, to suspend the rules toward adoption of Resolution No. 13-06. All ayes, (5), MOTION CARRIED. MOTION by O’Malley, second by Radermacher, to adopt the following:

RESOLUTION NO. 13-06

NAME PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY AS PEARSON DRIVE

(Copy on file in Clerk’s office)

All ayes, (5) MOTION CARRIED.

Consider changing date for first Council meeting in November: motion by O’Malley, second by Wyland, to change the date for the first Council meeting in November to Wednesday, November 8^th, due to Election setup in the Council Chambers. All ayes (5), MOTION CARRIED.

Request by James Caspers and Cory Pope to erect a fence at 1800 Stonepine Bay within the Grandview Drive right-of-way, and request to enter into a use agreement: Denny Darnold explained that James Caspers and Cory Pope requested an Easement Agreement to erect a fence at 1800 Stonepine Bay, within the Grandview Drive right-of-way. He recommended entering into an Agreement that would permit them to construct a fence up to five feet high in that area. MOTION by Radermacher, second by Koch, to approve entering into a use of right-of-way/public utility easement area Agreement with James Caspers and Cory Pope to permit them to construct a fence up to five feet high within the Grandview Drive right-of-way and within the public utility easement area on their lot. Discussion included information that the City reserves the right to have the fence relocated at the owner’s expense, if it becomes necessary. It was also noted that due to the landscaping, it was not possible to place the fence on another part of their property. All ayes (5), MOTION CARRIED.

Consider changes to Municipal Code, Chapter 181 – Parks and Recreation, - Ordinance No. 14-06: City Attorney Catherine Munkittrick explained that, per Council direction, she drafted an ordinance as an amendment to the Municipal Code regarding Parks. She noted that the changes included the use of outdoor barbecues or grills for cooking fires, and the requirement for a permit to use the fireplaces in Park buildings. Information regarding new park hours was shared; it was noted that signs have been posted.

Interim Police Chief Paul Larson reported that the Patrol Officers are doing a good job enforcing the rules in the parks, and incidents have decreased. Discussion concerning the fees was held.

MOTION by O’Malley, second by Morrissette, to suspend the rules toward adoption of Ordinance No. 14-06. All ayes, (5), MOTION CARRIED. MOTION by O’Malley, second by Radermacher, to adopt the following:

ORDINANCE NO. 14-06

AMEND CH. 181 RE: RULES IN PARKS

(Copy on file in Clerk’s office)

All ayes, (5) MOTION CARRIED.

COMMUNICATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE MAYOR: MOTION by O’Malley, second by Radermacher, to confirm the reappointment of Dave Holt, 1114 Bald Eagle Road North, as the North Hudson representative on the Public Utility Commission, for another five-year term ending in September of 2011. All ayes (5), MOTION CARRIED.

Mayor Breault read the Proclamation declaring the week of October 8^th as Fire Prevention Week. He noted that this proclamation, as well as the Toastmaster’s Month proclamation, would be on display in City Hall.

COMMUNICATIONS AND ITEMS FOR FUTURE AGENDAS: Radermacher requested an update on the installation of the new computer system. It was noted that some of the equipment has arrived; more is expected and installation will follow.

Administrator Devin Willi reminded that persons who need to register to vote should do so early in order to avoid waiting in line on Election Day. He noted that Absentee voting could take place in person at City Hall, or by mail, after October 9^th.

CLOSED SESSION pursuant to §19.85(1)(g), Wis. Stats. to confer with legal counsel re: possible litigation from non-renewal of Class “B” Beer License to All Seasons Golf Links – Mark Christoffersen: MOTION by O’Malley, second by Radermacher to convene into Closed Session pursuant to §19.85(1)(g), Wis. Stats. to confer with legal counsel re: possible litigation from non-renewal of Class “B” Beer License to All Seasons Golf Links – Mark Christoffersen. Roll call vote, all ayes (5), MOTION CARRIED at 8:03 p.m.

RECONVENE INTO OPEN SESSION FOR POSSIBLE ACTION RE: POSSIBLE LITIGATION FROM NON-RENEWAL OF CLASS “B” Beer License to All Seasons Golf Links – Mark Christoffersen: MOTION by O’Malley, second by Morrissette, to reconvene into open session. All ayes (5), MOTION CARRIED at 8:12 p.m.

MOTION by O’Malley, second by Radermacher, to authorize City Attorney Munkittrick to respond to the letter from Attorney Barry Lundeen regarding the non-renewal of the beer license to All Seasons Golf Links and indicate that the current ordinance is in effect and will be followed. All ayes (5), MOTION CARRIED.

MOTION by Radermacher, second by O’Malley, to adjourn at 8:12 p.m. All ayes (5). 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