November 14, 2022

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS, CITY OF ALBERT LEA
Monday, November 14, 2022, 7:00 p.m.

PRESENT: Mayor Vern Rasmussen Jr., Councilors Rich Murray, Larry Baker, Jason Howland, Reid Olson, Robert Rasmussen, and Al Brooks. Also present were, City Manager Ian Rigg, Public Works Director Steven Jahnke, Public Safety Director Sergeant-at-Arms JD Carlson, and City Clerk Daphney Maras.

CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL – Mayor Rasmussen called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Mayor Rasmussen asked all in attendance to stand and recite the Pledge of Allegiance.

CEREMONIAL ITEMS – Mayor Rasmussen read aloud the Proclamation Declaring Small Business Saturday, November 26, 2022. He encourages the community to support the small businesses.

PUBLIC FORUM – None

CONSENT AND APPROVAL OF AGENDA

A. Approve Minutes Of The October 24, 2022 Regular Council Meeting
B. Approve Minutes Of The October 24, 2022 Work Session
C. License & Permits
D. Resolution Deferring Special Assessment for Parcel Number 34-180-0660 (Job 2201 The 2022 Pillsbury & Freeborn Avenue Project)
E. Resolution Approving Lawful Gambling Permit – AL Amateur Hockey Association
F. Resolution Supporting Active Transportation Grant Application For The Blake Avenue Sidewalk Extension Project – 2022 Misc. 370
G. Resolution Approving Capital Equipment Purchase

Motion made by Councilor Baker to approve the consent agenda as read, seconded by Councilor Rasmussen. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Baker, Olson, Rasmussen, Brooks, and Mayor Rasmussen. Mayor Rasmussen declared the motion passed.

(See Secretary’s Original Resolution 22-239 through 22-242
Included with these minutes)

PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS

A. Albert Lea Economic Development Agency (ALEDA) Director Phillip Johnson and Dean for Institutional Advancement at Riverland Community College Janelle Koepke delivered a presentation regarding the proposed Community Promise Scholarship program. Johnson explained this program is an initiative to encourage area high school graduates to reach their career and educational goals, stay local, and gain exposure and experience in the area businesses. Koepke outlined the scholarship criteria for eligibility, benefits to the students and the community. The funding partners required to support this program were described which include area businesses, individuals, foundations, and organizations. The funding was detailed including $308,000 is needed in the first year, $535,000 the second year with 5-year pledge commitments. She noted Riverland Foundation, ALEDA, and Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce have already committed $80,000 per year for 5 years. Koepke added programs such as this have become common practice in community development across the State providing access and opportunities for under-represented students that may not be the traditional college students or on that pathway.

Council presented comments and questions to which Johnson and Koepke responded. To Mayor Rasmussen’s question, Rigg said he plans to bring a resolution back to council for approval at a later meeting.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS –

A. Ordinance 22-085 Amending Part II – Chapter 20 Fire Prevention and Protection (2nd Reading)

This is the second and final reading of the amendments to Chapter 20 Fire Prevention and Protection. The amendments are due to the changes in the zoning ordinance. There was also added language to include Freeborn County Law Enforcement Center in notifications when a burn permit is issued and the burning to commence.

Motion made by Councilor Howland to approve the final reading of this ordinance, seconded by Councilor Baker. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Murray, Baker, Howland, Olson, Rasmussen, Brooks, and Mayor Rasmussen. Mayor Rasmussen declared the motion passed.

(See Secretary’s Original Ordinance 22-085
Included with these minutes)

NEW BUSINESS

A. Resolution 22-243 Approving Publication of Summary Ord 22-085 – Fire Prevention and Protection

The attached resolution approves publication of a Summary for Ordinance 22-085 in regards to the amendments to Chapter 20 Fire Prevention and Protection.
Motion made by Councilor Baker to approve the publication, seconded by Councilor Rasmussen. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Murray, Baker, Howland, Olson, Rasmussen, Brooks, and Mayor Rasmussen. Mayor Rasmussen declared the motion passed.

(See Secretary’s Original Resolution 22-243
Included with these minutes)

B. Public Hearing on Levying Special Assessments For Miscellaneous Delinquent
Water/Sewer Accounts and Miscellaneous Delinquent Accounts Receivables

Mayor Rasmussen opened the public hearing inviting comments from the public. Jerry Collins approached and questioned the interest rate to which Rigg responded. Mayor Rasmussen called two more times. No one spoke. He closed the public hearing.

To Brooks’ question, Clerk Maras responded no comments were received from the public prior to this meeting.

B1. Resolution 22-244 Levying Special Assessments for Miscellaneous Delinquent Water/Sewer Accounts and Miscellaneous Delinquent Accounts Receivables

A public hearing was held to receive input on adopting the final assessments for delinquent water/sewer accounts and miscellaneous delinquent accounts receivable per the Code of Ordinances. These assessments are payable with terms of one year at 5.01% interest.

Motion made by Councilor Olson to approve resolution 22-244, seconded by Councilor Baker. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Murray, Baker, Howland, Olson, Rasmussen, Brooks, and Mayor Rasmussen. Mayor Rasmussen declared the motion passed.
(See Secretary’s Original Resolution 22-244
Included with these minutes)

C. Public Hearing Regarding Broadway Ridge Grant Funding For 101 South Broadway –
Albert Lea Art Center

Mayor Rasmussen opened the public hearing inviting comments from the public. He called three times. No one spoke. Mayor Rasmussen closed the public hearing.

C1. Resolution 22-245 Authorizing Broadway Ridge Renewal Grant Funding For 101 South Broadway – Albert Lea Art Center

The Albert Lea Art Center has submitted a Broadway Ridge Renewal Grant for reimbursement up to 50% of costs associated with a complete roof replacement and a new energy efficient HVAC system equaling an amount of $37,351.26. All improvements have been completed and reviewed by the City’s Zoning and Building Official for compliance with application requirements. Staff recommends approval of the attached resolution which approves funding for up to 50% of the total project costs.

Motion made by Councilor Baker to approve resolution 22-245, seconded by Councilor Brooks. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Murray, Baker, Howland, Olson, Rasmussen, Brooks, and Mayor Rasmussen. Mayor Rasmussen declared the motion passed.

(See Secretary’s Original Resolution 22-245
Included with these minutes)

D. Public Hearing Regarding Broadway Ridge Grant Funding For 218 South Washington Ave. – Honey Pot Holdings, LLC

Mayor Rasmussen opened the public hearing inviting comments from the public. He called three times. No one spoke. Mayor Rasmussen closed the public hearing.

D1. Resolution 22-246 Authorizing Broadway Ridge Renewal Grant Funding For 218 South Washington Ave. – Honey Pot Holdings, LLC

Honey Pot Holdings, LLC has submitted a Broadway Ridge Renewal Grant for reimbursement up to 50% of costs associated with window replacement, new lighting and tuck-pointing repairs equaling an amount of $50,000.00. All improvements have been completed and reviewed by the City’s Zoning and Building Official for compliance with application requirements. Staff recommends approval of the attached resolution which approves funding for up to 50% of the total project costs.

Motion made by Councilor Brooks to approve, seconded by Councilor Rasmussen. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Murray, Baker, Howland, Olson, Rasmussen, Brooks, and Mayor Rasmussen. Mayor Rasmussen declared the motion passed.

(See Secretary’s Original Resolution 22-246
Included with these minutes)

E. Resolution 22-247 Authorizing The Publication Of RFPs For the Sale And Development Of City Owned Properties

Rigg explained there are 13 parcels staff is requesting be placed on the market for the potential of proposals that may lead to development, blight removal and improved housing opportunities. These properties are the empty lots along 7th Avenue and Fountain Street; 3 lots along the 1200 Block of Newtown Ave South, the fire damaged property at 604 Giles, the property at 728 Newton Ave South, the upper levels of the old Bank Building at 201 Broadway Avenue South, and the Jacobson Building at 211 Broadway Avenue South.

Motion made by Councilor Baker to approve, seconded by Councilor Brooks. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Murray, Baker, Howland, Olson, Rasmussen, Brooks, and Mayor Rasmussen. Mayor Rasmussen declared the motion passed.

(See Secretary’s Original Resolution 22-247
Included with these minutes)

F. Resolution 22-248 Awarding Professional Engineering Services Agreement With Bolton & Menk For Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) – Job 2108

At the October 24, 2022 council meeting Bolton and Menk Inc. presented an update on the WWTP facilities plan and discussed the next steps. This agreement is to provide engineering services required for six additional tasks. The tasks are as follows:

Task 1: Final Design, Review and Contract Documents for Preliminary Treatment (Grit)
Task 2: Bidding Services and Contract Award for Preliminary Treatment (Grit)
Task 3: Biosolids Piloting Assistance
Task 4: B3 SB 2030 Review for PFA Financing (Required Sustainable Building Review)
Task 5: WWTF Solar Array Project Coordination (Management and Consultation)
Task 6: Geotechnical Boring and Report
Staff is recommending awarding an agreement to Bolton and Menk, Inc. of Mankato, Minnesota for the above-mentioned professional engineering services. The scope of services is proposed to be completed for a fee of $434,140.00.

To Brook’s comment regarding the exorbitant amount of consulting fees, Rigg detailed the portion of fees related to the designing and bidding process.

Motion made by Councilor Baker to approve, seconded by Councilor Rasmussen. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Murray, Baker, Howland, Olson, Rasmussen, Brooks, and Mayor Rasmussen. Mayor Rasmussen declared the motion passed.

(See Secretary’s Original Resolution 22-248
Included with these minutes)

MAYOR AND COUNCIL REPORTS:

First Ward, Councilor Murray reported:

  • Ward Items – None
  • Committee Update – Attended an HRA and ALEDA meeting last week. He reported from the ALEDA meeting some projects coming to fruition and public will be excited to hear about it. He thanked the community for their votes at the general election. He also thanked the community for the outpour of love and condolences since the recent passing of his son, Adam after a courageous battle with ALS.

Second Ward, Councilor Baker reported:

  • Ward Items – City staff is working on a couple of ward items.
  • Committee Update – Attended the HRA meeting. He thanked the community for their votes in the general election.

Third Ward, Councilor Howland reported:

  • Ward Items – A business owner contacted him who is looking to expand his business. He will miss the next council meeting as he is performing in the next Albert Lea Community Theatre presentation of ELF and the final rehearsal is on November 28th.
  • Committee Update – None

Fourth Ward, Councilor Olson reported:

  • Ward Items – None
  • Committee Update – Attended the HRA meeting. He reported the new HRA Director is asking for a volunteer from the board to review the budget for next year.

Fifth Ward, Councilor Rasmussen reported:

  • Ward Items – None
  • Committee Update – None

Sixth Ward, Councilor Brooks reported:

  • Ward Items – Thanked the Public Works department for their assistance in resolving a homeowner’s issue
  • Committee Update – None

MAYOR’S REPORT:

  • Small Business Saturday is November 26th.
  • Tuesday, November 15th – If you are a Harry Potter fan, come on out to the Albert Lea Public Library tomorrow, from 4:00p.m. to 6:00p.m., to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of Harry Potter, held in the Children’s room.
  • Friday, November 18th – The Albert Lea Senior Center will hold a defensive driving course from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Visit the Senior Center at Skyline Plaza for more information and other programs.
  • Sunday, November 20th – Albert Lea Cantori Choir will be performing at United Methodist Church, “Singing in the Season”. Venue opens at 2:30p.m., concert starts at 3:00p.m.
  • Thursday, November 24th – Thanksgiving Day!
  • Every Sunday in November – Public Skate from 4:30-6:00 p.m. at the City Arena. $5 per skater, $2 more for skate rental. Or save a little by registering online or buying a 20-admission pass. Follow Albert Lea Recreation on Facebook for more information.
  • Attended the Port Authority meeting and reports some fun projects are coming forward.
  • He thanked all the people who ran for office in this year’s election.

CITY MANAGER REPORT

  • Reports a few applications have been received from individuals’ and proposals from firms for the attorney position
  • Staff has been working on draft RFPs and proposals on properties that are scheduled for closing.
  • Staff has been reviewing benefits and different functions within the organization including activities to create a more positive culture within the City.
  • Asked the architects to modify the building plans for the City Hall
  • He is working on an item for ward 6
  • Staff continues on exploring ideas on how to fund for the WWTP updates as well as the bonding bill in the works.
  • He spoke of economic and social mobility and how it relates to the scholarship program presented earlier.
  • The school district is considering the addition of an SRO in order to become proactive. This may be a cost share between the school district and the City. More information will be presented at a later date.

APPROVAL OF CLAIMS

A. Resolution 22-249 Approving Claims
(1). Presentation of Claims Over $25,000

The attached resolution directs the Mayor and City Treasurer to issue the payment of claims as presented in the Detail of Claims report. In addition, Maras displayed a list of claims over $25,000 for the public’s viewing, transparency and education.

Motion made by Councilor Brooks to approve payment of claims as presented. Seconded by Councilor Rasmussen. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Murray, Baker, Howland, Olson, Rasmussen, Brooks, and Mayor Rasmussen. Mayor Rasmussen declared the motion passed.

(See Secretary’s Original Resolution 22-249 Included with these minutes)

ADJOURNMENT: 8:01 P.M.

Motion made by Councilor Murray, seconded by Councilor Howland. That there being no further business, the Council meeting adjourn until the next regular meeting of the Albert Lea City Council at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, November 28, 2022. On roll call vote, all councilors voted in favor of said motion.

Mayor Rasmussen declared the motion passed and the meeting adjourned.

_/s/___________________________
Mayor Vern Rasmussen, Jr.

_/s/___________________________
Daphney Maras
Secretary of the Council