02/17/1998 - City Council Regular00052
MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE
EAGAN CITY COUNCIL
Eagan, Minnesota
February 17,1998
A regular meeting of the Eagan City Council was held on Tuesday, February 17,1998 at 6:30 p.m.
at the Eagan Municipal Center. Present were Mayor Egan and Councilmembers Wachter, Awada, Masin
and Blomquist. Also present were City Administrator Tom Hedges, Senior Planner Mike Ridley, Director
of Public Works Tom Colbert, and City Attorney Jim Sheldon.
AGENDA
It was noted that an Executive Session would be held following the regular meeting.
Councilmember Wachter moved, Councilmember Awada seconded a motion to approve the
agenda as presented. Aye: 5 Nay: 0
MINUTES OF THE FEBRUARY 3,1998 REGULAR MEETING
Councilmember Masin moved, Councilmember Awada seconded a motion to approve the
minutes as presented. Aye: 5 Nay: 0
MINUTES OF THE JANUARY 27,1998 SPECIAL MEETING
Councilmember Blomquist stated that some of the dialogue that occurred at the meeting was not
reflected in the minutes.
Councilmember Blomquist moved, Councilmember Wachter seconded a motion to approve the
minutes as presented. Aye: 5 Nay: 0
VISITORS TO BE HEARD
Dan Wilharber, 2082 Carnelian Lane, requested a neighborhood meeting be held with City staff,
residents and representatives of Delta Development. City Administrator Hedges noted that no new
application has been received from Delta Development yet. He added that the City Council wants the
public to be informed of any new proposal, particularly because tax increment financing is being
considered. Councilmember Awada said that it is important for all the parties to meet before there is a
final proposal and a representative of the Council should also be present. Councilmember Blomquist
stated that the business community should also be invited to attend. Councilmember Awada said that
she intended for the Cedarvale Merchants' Association to be included. City Administrator Hedges noted
that legal notices will be sent out to certain property owners, but he added that anyone is welcome to
attend the meeting. Councilmembers Blomquist and Masin indicated that they would like to serve as the
Council representatives.
RECOGNITIONS & PRESENTATIONS
RECOGNITION OF ADVISORY COMMISSION MEMBERS' SERVICE
City Administrator Hedges provided an overview on this item. Mayor Egan commented on the
role of advisory commission members.
The following outgoing commission members were recognized for their dedication and service to
the City of Eagan: Mark Miller and Charles Thorkildson, Advisory Planning Commission; Michael
EAGAN CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES; FEBRUARY 17,1998
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Steenberg and Jonathan White, Airport Relations Commission; Bruce Goff and Ron Voracek, Economic
Development Commission; and B.A. "Al" Swensied, Solid Waste Abatement Commission. A certificate
was presented to Charles Thorkildson who was present and Mayor Egan thanked all the outgoing
commission members for their service and commitment.
PRESENTATION OF SENATOR'S AWARD IN HONOR OF GEORGE SCOTT,
FORMER MEMBER OF THE EAGAN FIRE DEPARTMENT
City Administrator Hedges provided an overview on this item. Mayor Egan read a letter sent to
Senator Rod Grams by George Scott's son Michael. Linda Westrom, representing Senator Grams,
presented the congressional award to the Scott family in recognition of Mr. Scott's 20 years of service and
dedication to the Eagan Fire Department.
DEPARTMENT HEAD BUSINESS
Councilmember Masin mentioned that she attended the Firefighters' Appreciation Dinner. She
stated that the volunteer firefighters provide an outstanding service to the community and said that their
service is greatly appreciated.
City Administrator Hedges said that Natalie Darwitz, an eighth grade Eagan student, was
recently named the Metro Player of the Year in girls' hockey. He suggested that the City Council could
send a letter and invite her to attend a future City Council meeting. Councilmembers concurred with his
suggestion.
CONSENT AGENDA
In regard to Item A 1, Resignation of Ton anagi, Recreation Supervisor, Councilmember
Wachter stated that he wishes Jon Oyanagi the best in his new position. Councilmember Masin stated
that he has been an outstanding member of the Parks and Recreation staff. City Administrator Hedges
added that he was very dedicated and did a remarkable job and will be missed.
In regard to Item C, Resolution to issue and sell $3,370,000 General Obligation Improvement
Bonds, Councilmember Blomquist referenced the resolution in the Council packet and asked where the
rest of the money for the special assessment will come from. Mayor Egan noted that the language
contained in the resolution is required by statute. City Attorney Sheldon said that in order to bond for
special assessments the City has to levy a minimum of 20% of the project cost. Councilmember Blomquist
stated that she would like to know what the amount is.
In regard to Item I, Award bid packages 3-14, second sheet of ice, Councilmember Wachter
inquired about the bid results. City Administrator Hedges said that staff is recommending that bid
packages 3, 6 and 10 be held until the next City Council meeting for further review. He also said that bid
package 12 is on hold and may need to be re-bid. He added that the total project cost is significantly less
than the projected cost. He thanked the architect, construction manager and Director of Parks and
Recreation Vraa for their efforts. Mayor Egan also thanked Vraa for his involvement with regard to the
successful bid package.
In regard to Item J, Project 737, receive resolution/ petition from Inver Grove Heights and
authorize feasibility report (Tubilation Add. - Sewer and Water), Councilmember Wachter inquired about
the number of trees that will be removed and if tree replacement is proposed. He said he was concerned
about how many more of these developments are going to be contiguous to the Eagan border and he
asked what areas will need to be serviced by Eagan's water and sewer services. Director of Public Works
Colbert stated that there is an exhibit to the joint Powers Agreement which defines the land area within
Inver Grove Heights which would possibly be serviced by Eagan utilities.
EAGAN CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES; FEBRUARY 17,1998
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Councilmember Blomquist requested that this item be continued to the March 2, 1998 City
Council meeting to allow the Council to look at the plat and determine what the impact will be to the
Eagan neighborhoods across the road from this development. She added that the Eagan residents should
have an opportunity to speak on this matter.
Director of Public Works Colbert noted that he could provide the Council with a copy of the Inver
Grove Heights' planning report which will indicate the size of the lots in the development.
Councilmember Masin referenced the meeting that was held with the mayor and city administrator of
Inver Grove Heights and said that she thought these issues and uses were discussed at that time. Mayor
Egan said that if there is a change from what was discussed the Council should be made aware of it, but
he added that this use was discussed at the meeting. Director of Public Works Colbert stated that he did
not think there was any significant change, but further stated he was not certain and could give the
Council an update at the next meeting. He added that he did not recall if the planning report addressed
tree mitigation. Mayor Egan said it was his recollection that it was stated in the joint Powers Agreement
that Inver Grove Heights had to meet most of the City of Eagan's professional planning, utility and park
requirements.
Councilmember Blomquist moved, Councilmember Wachter seconded a motion to continue this
item to the March 2,1998 City Council meeting so the requested information may be provided to the
Council and the adjacent Eagan residents notified of the proposed development if they had not been
notified by Inver Grove Heights.
Mayor Egan stated that the City Council approved the global Joint Powers Agreement that
contained requirements for land use designations. He added that the City has entered into a contract and
it must be honored unless there has been a change in circumstances. Director of Public Works Colbert
said it is his understanding that the City of Inver Grove Heights would notice property owners in Eagan
within 350 feet of the boundary. Councilmember Awada stated that she was only willing to re-examine
this issue if the land use has changed from what was approved in the joint Powers Agreement.
Councilmember Wachter noted that the neighbors did not know what was going to develop along
the boundary and should be given an opportunity to speak on the matter. Senior Planner Ridley said that
State Statute requires that property owners within a 350 foot radius be notified of a proposed
development, and therefore; Eagan residents should have received notification from the City of Inver
Grove Heights.
Councilmember Awada requested that the item be continued to New Business for further
discussion. Councilmember Blomquist requested the item be continued for two weeks.
A vote was taken on the motion to continue the item to the March 2,1998 City Council meeting.
Aye: 2 Nay: 3 (Mayor Egan and Councilmembers Awada and Masin opposed). The motion failed.
Councilmember Awada moved, Councilmember Masin seconded a motion to continue the item
to New Business. Aye: 5 Nay: 0
In regard to Item N, Amendment to final plat, GVR Acres, Greg and Valerie Rathman,
Councilmember Wachter noted that the property is being platted 30 feet from the shoreline and he asked
who will own the property up to the lake. Senior Planner Ridley said it is considered public water and is
consistent with the setbacks of the other properties around the entire lake.
A. Personnel Items
Item 1. It was recommended to approve the hiring of Mary Swenson as a Clerical Technician III for
Administration.
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EAGAN CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES; FEBRUARY 17,1998
PAGE 4
Item 2. It was recommended to accept the letter of resignation from Jon Oyanagi, Recreation Supervisor.
Item 3. It was recommended to approve the hiring of Sonya Rippe as a temporary seasonal Softball
Program Coordinator.
Item 4. It was recommended to approve the hiring of Ann Morin-Skumatz as a part-time temporary
seasonal warming house attendant.
B. Resolution establishing the date for a public hearing on proposed amendments to the financing of the 98-12
Thomas Lake Place Apartments project. It was recommended to approve a resolution establishing the
date for a public hearing on proposed amendments to the financing of the Thomas Lake Place
Apartments Project.
C. Resolution to issue and sell $3,370,000 General Obligation Improvement Bonds. It was recommended 98-13
to approve a resolution to issue and sell $3,370,000 general obligation improvement bonds.
D. Duplex Lot Split, Tohn B. Mahoney for Lot 3, Block 1, Wescott Hills 5th Addition. It was recommended 98-14
to approve a Waiver of Subdivision for a duplex lot split to allow for individual ownership for Lot 3,
Block 1, Wescott Hills 5th Addition located at 872 & 874 Trails End Road.
E. Extension of preliminary subdivision for Gardenwood Ponds 3rd. It was recommended to extend the
preliminary subdivision approval for one year to April 4,1999.
F. Final Subdivision for Town Centre 70 Twentieth Addition - Kennedy Transmission. It was 98-15
recommended to approve a Final Subdivision, Town Centre 70 Twentieth Addition, consisting of one lot
and one outlot on 7.63 acres currently platted as Outlot A, Town Centre 70 Nineteenth Addition, located
in the SE 1/4 of Section 15.
G. Extension for recordingthe final plat of Kingswood Ponds 2nd Addition - Horne Development Corp.
It was recommended to extend the recording of the final plat of Kingswood Ponds 2nd Addition for 60
days to March 16, 1998.
H. Extension for recording the final plat of UPS 2nd Addition - Hedlund Engineering. It was
recommended to extend the time for recording the final plat of UPS 2nd Addition for nine months to
October 15, 1998.
1. Award bid packages 3-14, second sheet of ice. It was recommended to approve bid packages 3 through
14, excluding packages 3, 6, 10 and 12, for Contract 97-18, Civic Arena second phase.
J. Project 737, receive resolution/ petition from Inver Grove Heights and authorize feasibility report
(jubilation Add. - Sewer and Water). It was recommended to receive a resolution/ petition from Inver
Grove Heights requesting the extension of sewer and water utilities to the proposed Jubilation Addition
and continue consideration of preparation of a feasibility report to the March 2, 1998 City Council
meeting. (This item was discussed under New Business, Item B.)
K. Resolution relating to financing of second sheet of ice. It was recommended to approve a resolution 98-16
relating to financing of a second sheet of ice.
L. Resolution for support of Youth Initiatives Bill. It was recommended to approve support of the Youth 98-17
Initiatives Bill that is before the State Legislature as part of its 1998 bonding bill.
M. Exemption from lawful gambling license - Metro/Twin Toms Chapter National Wild Turkey 98-18
Federation, raffle to be conducted at Royal Cliff, March 21, 1998. It was recommended to grant an
EAGAN CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES; FEBRUARY 17,1998
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exemption from lawful gambling license requirement for the Metro/Twin Toms Chapter of the National
Wild Turkey Federation for a raffle to be conducted at Royal Cliff Banquet Center on March 21,1998.
N. Amendment to final plat, GVR Acres, Greg and Valerie Rathman. It was recommended to approve an
amendment to the Final Subdivision, GVR Acres, changing the private street easement to a separate
outlot.
0. Appoint alternate commissioner to the Minnesota Valley Transit Authority. It was recommended to
appoint Assistant Finance Director Tom Pepper as the alternate commissioner to the MVTA.
P. Skyhill Park, reconveyance/rededication to/from Blue Cross Blue Shield Minnesota (BCBSM) East
Addition plat recording. It was recommended to approve the reconveyance and rededication of Skyhill
Park from Blue Cross Blue Shield MN (BCBSM) and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute all
related documents.
In regard to Item C, Resolution to issue and sell $3,370,000 General Obligation Improvement
Bonds, City Administrator Hedges stated that the bonds are being used to finance 13 improvement
projects and he provided the balance of the unpaid assessments to be financed by the sale of bonds.
Councilmember Wachter moved, Councilmember Awada seconded a motion to approve the
consent agenda. Aye: 5 Nay: 0
PUBLIC HEARINGS
PROJECT 729, WILDERNESS RUN 5TH & 6TH ADDITIONS - STREET OVERLAY
City Administrator Hedges provided an overview on this item. Design Engineer Gorder gave a
staff report and provided detailed information on the project.
Councilmember Wachter stated that the City's pavement management program has been
successful. He questioned why 24% of the existing curb and gutter needs to be replaced. Director of
Public Works Colbert stated that in the first round of overlays and reconstruction the percentage of curb
and gutter that has to be replaced is significantly higher because of the damage caused during home
construction.
Mayor Egan opened the public hearing to anyone wishing to speak.
Janet Bates, 1286 Easter Lane, complimented the Engineering Department for the excellent job
they did in explaining why the project needs to be done. She requested that the City Council approve the
project.
Jim Blair, 4270 Dunrovin Lane, stated that he is not in favor of the project.
Mary Charbonneau, 1299 Easter Lane, asked why the improvements are not being paid for out of
the general fund. Mayor Egan said that approximately two-thirds of the project cost for assessment is
being paid for out of the general fund. Director of Public Works Colbert explained how the City Council
arrived at the assessment policy. He noted that the City of Eagan has one of the lowest rates in the
metropolitan area and said he thought Eagan ranks 95th out of 108 communities with its property tax
statement. Councilmember Blomquist said that she thought the City of Eagan ranks 74t. Mayor Egan
commented that he thought Director of Public Works Colbert was very close to the figure. Director of
Public Works Colbert stated that the City Council has worked hard to keep the tax rate down and that the
Council has felt that a combination of property taxes and some special assessments by the benefiting
property owners would be the best option. Ms. Charbonneau stated that she did not agree with the
policy and said she pays enough taxes already.
EAGAN CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES; FEBRUARY 17,1998
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Jon Van Diver, 1302 Easter Lane, said he was opposed to the overlay because he feels there are
other streets in the City in more need of repair.
Mayor Egan noted that the Council is in the process of looking at the feasibility of reconstructing
the streets in the Oak Chase neighborhood. Councilmember Masin mentioned that there is a schedule for
street maintenance for every neighborhood in the City. Mayor Egan commented on the Pavement
Condition Index which rates the surface condition of each street. Councilmember Awada said that if the
street is not improved it could eventually result in the need for total reconstruction which would be much
more costly. Director of Public Works Colbert provided a tax breakdown of the street maintenance
program as it applies to individual property owners.
Jim Updegraff, 4248 North Malmo Lane, said that the Engineering Department did an excellent
job in providing the information to the residents. He added that he would like to see the street
resurfaced.
Darrell Isebrand, 4268 North Nybro Lane, indicated he was in support of the project.
There being no one else wishing to speak, Mayor Egan turned the discussion back to the Council.
Councilmember Wachter said that no one is in favor of paying taxes, but he added that the City of
Eagan's property tax rates are among the lowest in the metropolitan area. He added that the City Council
has always worked to keep taxes low.
Councilmember Blomquist said she is concerned about the City's assessment policy and is also
concerned that the assessments are not tax deductible. She added that she would like to see the City plan
better for road repair and said she does not feel that taxes should have to be increased to pay for these
repairs, but rather the City should spend more wisely. She further added that she is concerned with the
appraisal system and said she feels there is a problem in the way that benefit is determined.
Councilmember Masin commented that she feels the Council has done a good job in trying to
accommodate the entire City with regard to road repairs. She said she does not have a problem with a
change in the assessment policy.
Mayor Egan stated that in order for the City to assess a property owner benefit has to be proven
which indicates that the property value has risen. He further stated that a property owner is entitled to a
tax deduction or an increase in property value, but not both.
Councilmember Blomquist said that she believes there are problems with the appraisal process
and that the City may be in conflict with the rules and added that she will not vote in favor of this project.
Councilmember Awada commented on a flyer that was distributed to the neighborhood and said
that it did not come from the Council as an official body and said she was sorry that they had to be
brought into a political battle going in within the Council.
Councilmember Wachter moved, Councilmember Awada seconded a motion to close the public
hearing and approve Project 729 (Wilderness Run 4th, 5th and 6th Additions - Street Improvements) and
authorize the preparation of detailed plans and specifications. Aye: 4 Nay: 1 (Councilmember
Blomquist opposed)
EAGAN CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES; FEBRUARY 17,1998
PAGE 7 658
QLD BUSINESS
RECONSIDERATION, PRAIRIE OAKS PARTNERSHIP (PRAIRIE OAKS ADDITION)
PRELIMINARY SUBDIVISION AND FINAL PLANNED DEVELOPMENT
City Administrator Hedges provided an overview on this item. Senior Planner Ridley gave a
staff report.
Councilmember Awada moved, Councilmember Masin seconded a motion to approve
reconsideration of Prairie Oaks Addition Preliminary Subdivision and Final Planned Development at the
March 2,1998 City Council meeting.
Marcelle Reeder, 2155 Warrick Court, expressed her concerns with the proposed development.
She suggested some alternatives for the development of Lot C. Mayor Egan explained to her that the
Council is only being asked to reconsider this item for discussion at the March 2,1998 City Council
meeting. Councilmember Wachter stated that the Council will not consider Lot C for development at that
time.
Chris Moarn, applicant, said he understands the City Council's position with regard to tree
removal and the downsizing of the development. He further said he wants to concentrate on
development of the two buildings on Lots A and B for now.
A vote was taken on the motion. Aye: 5 Nay: 0
CONFIRMATION OF FINDINGS OF FACT, CONCLUSIONS & RESOLUTION OF DENIAL
PRAIRIE OAKS PARTNERSHIP (PRAIRIE OAKS ADDITION)
PRELIMINARY SUBDIVISION AND FINAL PLANNED DEVELOPMENT
Councilmember Masin moved, Councilmember Wachter seconded a motion to continue the
Findings of Fact, Conclusions & Resolution of Denial of the Prairie Oaks Addition requested by Prairie
Oaks Partnership located on Slater Road in the NW 1/4 of Section 31 to the March 2, 1998 City Council
meeting. Aye: 5 Nay: 0
NEW BUSINESS
PRELIMINARY SUBDIVISION AND CONDITONAL USE PERMIT
TRANSPORT AMERICA
City Administrator Hedges provided an overview on this item. Senior Planner Ridley gave a
staff report. He indicated that staff determined inclusion of condition no. 4 of the Preliminary
Subdivision was premature at this time and are recommending that it be removed.
Mark Hanson, representing Transport Corporation of America, said that they are in agreement
with all of the conditions.
Councilmember Wachter commented on the use of recycled asphalt. Mr. Hanson noted that they
have had great success using recycled asphalt. Councilmember Wachter requested to be informed about
the exact thickness of the asphalt.
Councilmember Awada moved, Councilmember Wachter seconded a motion to approve a
Preliminary Subdivision (Transport America) consisting of two lots on ten acres subject to the following
conditions:
EAGAN CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES; FEBRUARY 17,1998
PAGE 8
Standard Conditions
00059
The developer shall comply with these standard conditions of plat approval as adopted
by Council on February 3,1993:
Al, B1, C1, C2, C4, D1, El, F1 and G1
2. The property shall be platted.
3. The applicant is responsible for a cash park and trail dedication.
Aye: 5 Nay: 0
Councilmember Awada moved, Councilmember Wachter seconded a motion to approve a
Conditional Use Permit for Lots 6 and 7, Block 2, Sibley Terminal Industrial Park, to allow expansion of
parking as a principal use on Terminal Drive in the SE Quarter of Section 8 subject to the following
conditions:
1. The applicant shall record the Conditional Use Permit at the Dakota County Recorder's
office within 60 days of Council action.
2. The applicant should also provide additional plantings along the north boundary of Lot 6
to also provide screening of the storage from southbound traffic on Terminal Drive.
3. The proposed parking lot shall be constructed with concrete curb and gutter around all
edges of the parking lot, and recycled asphalt in the areas not constructed with concrete
landing pads. If recycled asphalt is deemed inadequate by City staff upon review within
two years of its installation, then the recycled asphalt shall be replaced with bituminous
surfacing.
4. The developer shall obtain a grading permit from the City prior to construction of the
proposed parking lot.
5. A concrete driveway entrance in accordance with City standards shall be constructed
onto Terminal Drive.
6. To require that the applicant install an additional thirty (30) Category C trees (or an
equivalent combination of Category A or Category B trees) as mitigation for significant
tree removal in excess of allowable limits. A revised landscape/tree mitigation plan shall
be submitted for staff review with grading permit application.
7. To require that the applicant install 130 Category C trees (or an equivalent combination of
Category A or Category B trees) as fulfillment of tree preservation mitigation at the time
of future development on Lot 6.
Aye: 5 Nay: 0
PROJECT 737, RECEIVE RESOLUTION/PETITION FROM INVER GROVE HEIGHTS AND
AUTHORIZE FEASIBILITY REPORT (JUBILATION ADD. - SEWER AND WATER)
. Director of Public Works Colbert provided the Council with an exhibit to the joint Powers
Agreement which showed the land use of jubilation Addition. He said that the land uses are in
conformance with their proposed use of the property. He also provided a copy of a page of the joint
EAGAN CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES; FEBRUARY 17, 1998
PAGE 9
0(.)O6Q
Powers Agreement which pertained to development plans and the City of Eagan's role in the approval of
those plans. He referenced the Inver Grove Heights' staff report which addressed tree preservation.
Councilmember Wachter stated that he does not want to see the loss of oak trees on the hill. He
further stated that the surrounding Eagan residents should have an opportunity to speak on this matter.
Councilmember Masin asked if anyone has checked to see if Eagan residents were notified of this
development proposal. City Administrator Hedges said that staff could obtain a copy of the abstract list
from the City of Inver Grove Heights which will indicate who was notified. Councilmember Masin
requested that the minutes of the Inver Grove Heights' City Council and Planning Commission meetings
be included for general information to the Eagan City Council. It was also suggested that a map be
included showing the land uses.
Councilmember Awada moved, Councilmember Blomquist seconded a motion to receive a
resolution/ petition from Inver Grove Heights requesting the extension of sewer and water utilities to the
proposed Jubilation Addition (Project 737) and preparation of a feasibility report was continued to the
March 2,1998 City Council meeting to allow staff time to determine the sufficiency of the notification of
Eagan residents.
Mayor Egan said he would support the motion, but noted that the jurisdiction of the City of
Eagan is limited because of the joint Powers Agreement the City has entered into with Inver Grove
Heights.
Councilmember Awada asked staff to request that the City of Inver Grove Heights notice the
adjacent Eagan residents in the future if they are within 350 feet of the proposed development and
provide verification that notices were sent.
Councilmember Blomquist commented that she believes the law allows for some forgiveness if a
property owner is inadvertently missed in the notification process as long as an attempt was made to
notice the majority of the neighborhood. City Administrator Hedges said that since the City of Eagan
notifies property owners within 350 feet of a proposed development the City Council cannot require the
City of Inver Grove Heights to notice beyond that boundary.
A vote was taken on the motion. Aye: 5 Nay: 0
LEGISLATIVF,/INTERGOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS
City Administrator Hedges mentioned that legislation concerning the Caponi Art Park will be
discussed at the legislature on Wednesday. He also mentioned that Representative Pawlenty is
suggesting that the City not sunset the four additional liquor licenses being requested, but rather come
back later with a revision to cap the number of licenses.
Councilmember Masin said she was at the legislature last week and Senator Belanger was the
sponsor of a bill on behalf of the Suburban Transit Association requesting that the property tax statement
differentiate between the transit tax and city tax.
ROUNDTABLE
Councihnember Wachter referenced the Administrator's report in the 1998 budget book and said
there is a message in there and the entire City Council should work together for the City of Eagan. He
added that Finance Director Gene VanOverbeke, Assistant Finance Director Tom Pepper, Accountant II
Linda Fink and the other Finance Department staff are to be commended for the fine job they do
preparing the financial report. He mentioned the Award of Financial Reporting Achievement that
Finance Director VanOverbeke received.
EAGAN CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES; FEBRUARY 17,1998
PAGE 10
0 (. 6€1._
Councilmember Awada said that the Friends of the Farm Annual Report was excellent. She
noted that Recreation Supervisor Jon Oyanagi volunteered his time to prepare this report. She added that
he will be missed. Councilmember Wachter stated that the Friends of the Farm will really miss him also.
He reviewed some of the activities that have been held at Holz Farm Park.
City Administrator Hedges referenced direction provided at the February 3 City Council meeting
to provide income from a cellular tower to the Holz Farm Park. He asked for clarification if the income
was to come from an existing or future cellular tower. Councilmember Wachter said he intended the
income come from an existing tower. Councilmember Awada suggested that this issue be discussed in
further detail at the next work session.
Councilmember Masin commented on the incredible farewell held for former employees Tom
Struve and Shannon Tyree and the amount of participation by the staff. She referenced a memorandum
sent to the Council indicating that appraisals will be kept by the appraisers. She said she does not see the
value of doing this and feels comfortable with the City Attorney keeping them since the City is incurring
the cost of the appraisals. City Administrator Hedges stated that it was a recommendation of the Finance
Director that if the City pays for the appraisals the City should be able to entitled to them. City Attorney
Sheldon said that the City Attorney's office does not do anything with the appraisals unless and until
there is a challenge. He added that all that is needed from the appraiser initially is his estimate of value in
those situations where there may be litigation. Councilmember Masin asked if the City's cost is less when
the appraiser keeps the appraisals. Sheldon said that the City pays a large amount for professional
services and if the appraiser does not produce an actual report the costs might be less. Councilmember
Masin noted that she is concerned about the potential for losing documents and not having ready access
to the information if the appraiser keeps the appraisals.
Councilmember Awada concurred with Councilmember Masin and said that the way the City
Council has done this all along has worked and there has not been any controversy until the last six
months. She added that she is comfortable with the process. Mayor Egan concurred. Councilmember
Wachter said he is comfortable with the process but is concerned that the City Attorney should not be
obligated to keep the appraisals in their files, but rather the City should keep them. Mayor Egan stated
that would be contrary to policy. Councilmember Awada said she felt the City Attorney should keep the
appraisals. Councilmember Wachter asked if the appraiser keeps the appraisals and for how long. City
Attorney Sheldon said he would check into the matter. Councilmember Blomquist stated that the
question still exists as to who is the client.
Councilmember Blomquist commented on the History Committee meeting held today. She
mentioned the Lone Oak Years book and said there is a possibility that it will be reprinted. She asked if
any member of the Council felt there should be an addendum to the book adding information from recent
years. Councilmember Wachter noted that, with regard to an addendum, it may require a City Council
policy as to how often this should be done. Councilmember Blomquist said that some history may have
been left out of the original printing and it may be worthwhile to include it. Councilmember Masin
suggested that a videotape be taken of the pioneers of Eagan who are still alive. Councilmember Wachter
stated that this was on the agenda for today, but they did not have time to address it. Councilmembers
Blomquist and Wachter requested that volunteers who are interested in working on this project contact
City Hall.
CHECK REGISTER
Councilmember Wachter moved, Mayor Egan seconded a motion to approve the check register
dated February 11, 1998 for 1997 expenses in the amount of $4,959,310.19 and the check register dated
February 12, 1998 for 1998 expenses in the amount of $376,856.73. Aye: 5 Nay: 0
EAGAN CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES; FEBRUARY 17,1998
PAGE 11 00062
i i.DJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m. to an Executive Session for the purpose of discussing
collective bargaining for the maintenance unit and the status of pending litigation. Present were Mayor
Egan and Councilmembers Wachter, Awada, Masin and Blomquist, City Administrator Tom Hedges and
City Attorney Jim Sheldon.
February 17, 1998
Date
MLK
City Clerk
If you need these minutes in an alternative form such as large print, Braille, audio tape, etc., please contact the City of
Eagan, 3830 Pilot Knob Road, Eagan, MN 55122, (612) 681-4600, (TDD phone: (612) 454-8535).
The City of Eagan is committed to the policy that all persons have equal access to its programs, services, activities,
facilities and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, disability, age, sexual
orientation, marital status or status with regard to public assistance.