HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021-05-13 Council MinutesCITY OF CORCORAN
City Council Meeting Minutes
May 13, 2021 - 7:00 pm
The Corcoran City Council met on May 13, 2021, in Corcoran, Minnesota. Pursuant to Minnesota Statute
Section 13D.021 and due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City Council meeting was held remotely
through electronic means using the audio and video conferencing platform Zoom.
Mayor McKee was present at City Hall. Councilor Bottema, Councilor Nichols, Councilor Schultz, and
Councilor Thomas were present via telephonic or other electronic means.
City Administrator Martens and Administrative Services Director Beise were present at City Hall. Public
Works Director Mattson, Director of Public Safety Gottschalk, and City Planner Lindahl were present via
telephonic or other electronic means.
1. Call to Order/Roll Call
Mayor McKee called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm.
2. Pledge of Allegiance
Mayor McKee invited all in attendance to rise and join in the Pledge of Allegiance.
3. Agenda Approval
City Administrator Martens reviewed the Open Forum comment opportunity for items not on the
agenda and noted the other public comment opportunities throughout the agenda. City Administrator
Martens noted moving the Public Hearing first for item 10a. under New Business, with public comment
opportunity for New Business immediately following the Public Hearing. City Administrator noted the
addition of a claim for $630, payable to the MN Bureau of Criminal Apprehension under item 7a., for
background checks for baseball. City Administrator Martens noted removal of item 11 a. Closed
Session from Easement Agreement for 66t" Avenue/Gleason Parkway Corridor Improvements.
MOTION: made by Nichols, seconded by Thomas to approve the agenda as modified.
Voting Aye by Roll Call Vote: McKee, Nichols, Schultz, and Thomas Abstain: Bottema
(Motion carried 4:0:1)
4. Commission Representatives
Mayor McKee noted Planning Commissioner Vehrenkamp and Parks and Trails Commissioner Dugan
were present via telephonic or other electronic means. Mayor McKee invited Commissioner
Vehrenkamp and Commissioner Dugan to speak on relevant agenda items.
Open Forum (Public Comment Opportunity)
Mayor McKee invited residents to communicate telephonically during the Open Forum discussion for
items not included on the agenda. Administrative Services Director Beise explained the instructions to
participate in the meeting via the Zoom video format and reviewed instructions for participation in the
meeting. No residents participated in the Open Forum.
Presentations/Recognitions
No presentations or recognitions were heard.
Consent Agenda
a. Financial Claims
b. Waiver Request for Amplified Sound —Corcoran Lions Summer Events
c. Waiver Request for Amplified Sound —Hamel Rodeo
d. Temporary Liquor License —Hamel Rodeo
e. Temporary Liquor License —Corcoran Lions
f. Cropland Rental Agreement, Amendment to Land Purchase Agreement — 8200 County
Road 116
g. Rear Setback Variance at 6433 Bluestem Circle
h. CSAH 101 and Stieg Road Turn Lanes -- Pay Request 3 and Final
I. Job Description Update — Administrative Services Director
j. City Hall Remodel — Pay Request #6, Change Order #5
Council requested items 7g., be pulled further discussi Con.
MOTION: made by Schultz, seconded by Thomas to approve the consent agendas 7a-f and 7h1
Voting Aye by Roll Call Vote: McKee, Bottema, Nichols, Schultz, and Thomas
(Motion carried 5:0)
Council reviewed item 7g. Rear Setback Variance at 6433 Bluestem Circle and previous Council
discussions pertaining to variance requirements and standards, practical difficulties in compliance,
unique factors o
f the parcel, essential character, general purpose and intent, and consistency with the
2040 Comprehensive Plan. Council reviewed staff verbiage on Resolution OWN the purpose of the
revised verbiage, and noted Council vote was completed at the April 22, 2021 meeting. Counc
staff discussed changing or altering resolution findings from that language proposed in the packet.
Council discussed further review of altered resolution findings and schedule the Resolution 2021-31
discussion to a later Council meeting. Council discussed the alteration of Resolution 2021-31 was to
clarify the reasons Council voted in favor of applicant's response to meeting variance criteria as
reflected in the new verbiage supplied by Council. Council noted current discussion on the consent
agenda item Resolution 2021-31 will approve the amended findings of fact language, and not alter
previous Council motion or vote regarding the variance included at the April 22 meeting. Council
discussed setting precedence of explaining Council vote, and noted additional verbiage adds to future
confusion of what a variance encompasses.
it and
MOTION: made by Schultz, seconded by Bottema to approve Resolution 2021-31 Approving a
Variance for the Property Located at 6433 Bluestem Circle (PI D 36-119-23-42-0032) (City File 21-
010).
Voting Aye by Roll Call Vote: McKee, Bottema Nay: Schultz, Thomas Abstain: Nichols
(Motion failed 2:2:1)
MOTION: made by Thomas, seconded by Nichols to approve Resolution 2021-31 Approving a
Variance for the Property Located at 6433 Bluestem Circle (PI D 36-119-23-42-0032) (City File 21-010)
with the following language for section 2:
The City Council finds that the variance standards have been met, based on the following findings:
a. There are practical difficulties in complying with the Zoning Ordinance due to the shape of the lot
and the location of the home on the lot leaving an unreasonable small 2' of clearance to the building
setback line, too small to permit a deck to be built at the elevated door on the rear of the home.
b. That the plight of the requestor is based on factors unique to the parcel of land for which the
variance is sought due to the wedge shape of the lot and the placement of the home on the lot.
c. That the granting of the variation will not alter the essential character of the locality because of the
particular location of the lot adjacent to a stormwater pond behind the proposed structure. This pond
area provides additional buffer space between homes that reduces the impact of the structure on
sightlines. It also maintains a low effective density of structures in the area, commensurate with the
zoning requirements and conditions of the local area.
d. The proposed variance would be in harmony with the general purposes and intent of the Ordinance,
which allows residential uses.
e. The variance is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan, which anticipates residential uses on this
parcel.
Voting Aye by Roll Call Vote: McKee, Nichols, Thomas Nay: Bottema, Schultz
(Motion carried 3:2)
8. Planning Business (Public Comment Opportunity)
Mayor McKee invited residents to communicate telephonically during the public comment opportunity
for Planning Business items included on the agenda. Administrative Services Director Beise explained
the instructions to participate in the meeting via the Zoom video format and reviewed instructions for
participation in the meeting.
Greg Hoglund, 19220 Hackamore Road, opined on Conditional Use Permits (CUPs) and the history of
the proposed location for Eagle Brook Church, noted churches in general and places of assembly
regarding the CUP use in zoning districts, and opined on the approval of future homes on the south
side of Corcoran. Mr. Hoglund noted the need for churches and schools as community grows, and the
legality of church locations. Mr. Hoglund addressed concerns on development processes, purchase
agreements, and the disregard of neighboring properties of the Ravinia neighborhood. Mr. Hoglund
noted concerns on item 8a., and opined on time limits regarding public comments.
Katherine Drivas, 6747 Old Sturbridge Drive, commented on potential difficulties for two of the five
school districts that may build a school in Corcoran. Ms. Drivas discussed history of limited
infrastructure at the time the Rockford elementary school was going to be built, opined regarding the
recent surge of homes being built within the school district boundaries and the need for infrastructure.
Mr. Drivas noted concern that a CUP change would impact school districts, forcing schools to build in
industrial areas.
Council noted the 5-minute public comment limit adopted procedure and remarked other cities also
have time limits for public comment periods. Council noted time can always be extended to residents
participating in public comment opportunities at the Council's discretion.
a. Conditional Uses in Zoning Districts
City Administrator Martens outlined Council request to discuss conditional uses in zoning districts, with
any changes requiring a public hearing. City Administrator Martens noted implications to proposed
conditional uses in zoning district changes would require research costs, noting the City is at 60
percent of its projected planning budget for the year. City Administrator Martens noted research
completion and staff report would be contracted out to Landform for the Planning Commission and
Council review. Council reviewed the current ordinance of conditional use permits allowed in low -
density, residentially zoned districts. Council reviewed the current ordinance in place allows schools
and places of worship to be placed within residentially zoned districts, noted the recent Council work
sessions prioritized zoning review as a high priority and outlined the current zoning review projects.
Council discussed two zoning ordinance changes, removing schools and places of worship from lower
density residential areas RSF-1, RSF-2, RSF-3, and RMF-1; and only allowing schools and places of
worship in higher density residential areas RMF-2 and RMF-3, industrially zoned areas, and the C-2
commercially zoned area. Council noted the proposed zoning changes remove a significant portion of
the MUSA area, noted a proposal could allow industrial land used for schools, and places of worship.
Council discussed changes to zoning could include limiting scope of facilities from lower -density
residential areas and debated the legality of zoning changes. Council discussed the proposed
changes eliminate larger facilities from low -density residential areas and eliminate concerns within City
regarding larger facilities in low -density residential areas. Council discussed a previous proposal for an
assembly facility. Council discussed if the proposed ordinance had been in place, many churches in
Corcoran today would not exist. Council noted industrial zoned districts are zoned specifically for
businesses that create jobs with tax revenue to relieve citizens of burden of residential tax impacts.
Council and staff discussed how much land would be left available if an ordinance restriction from
residentially low -density zoned areas existed versus current residentially zoned land and industrial
zoned locations. Council discussed performance changes versus restrictions from the City Council.
Council noted resident public comment and personal motivations regarding zoning changes. Council
discussed needing additional conversation on this topic before proceeding. Council discussed the
ideas of CUPs and determining if application presented for a proposed area can sustain, does the
business have a right to be there, and could include places of worship or schools. Council discussed
having the right to approve or reject an application and not be constrained by CUPs in determining
what is best for the area in the City. Council reviewed aspects of proposed CUPs and rejection of an
entity from a location and noted the fears that arise from potential impacts from proposed projects
within the City. Council noted there were specific criteria referenced to reject a previous application,
none of which included rezoning aspects, and noting the CUP process worked as specific reasons
were identified to support the Council denial. Council discussed rights of the landowner in selling the
land in limiting uses. Council discussed rezoning and the legal implications of places of worship.
3
Council discussed where an appropriate location would be within the City for schools and places of
worship. Council discussed the difficulty of proposing ordinance changes and having time for the
Council to review proposals as councilmembers cannot discuss business outside an open meeting.
Council requested moving discussion to the next Council meeting to allow Council time to review the
changes in proposed zoning districts. Council discussed the last two schools built by Wayzata Public
Schools were built near, and at about the same time as single-family homes were being constructed in
the area, noting the schools were approved for construction prior to the housing development
construction. Council noted involving public comment through a public hearing regarding future zoning
districts for schools and places of worship. City Administrator Martens reviewed the process of
scheduling a public hearing, implications to staff workload over the next week by moving the zoning
district ordinance for immediate review. Dean Vehrenkamp, Planning Commissioner, commented on
his history on the Maple Grove Planning Commission, and now with the City of Corcoran, noting in
Maple Grove planning, an area was pre -designated as school zoning, so potential buyers would know
the development was near a planned school facility. Commissioner Vehrenkamp briefly reviewed the
Eagle Brook Church application history. Commissioner Vehrenkamp opined on the restraining impacts
of the proposed zoning and CUP changes ultimately causing more confusion and issues in the future.
Commissioner Vehrenkamp commented on zoning location requirements limiting creativity and
development within the City.
MOTION: made by Nichols, seconded by Thomas approving the Public Hearing for Zoning Districts
and Conditional Use Permits at the June 3, 2021, Planning Commission meeting.
Council deliberated the information presented at the meeting and discussed further review of the
proposed changes as necessary at a future Council meeting. Council questioned the necessity in
moving to a public hearing immediately, prior to full Council discussion, noting the requirement to have
the city attorney complete a legal review, and allowing staff time to compose verbiage for the new
ordinance. Council discussed moving forward with ordinance changes. City Administrator Martens
noted staff has not been directed by Council to complete any zoning ordinance related changes.
Council discussed further review relating to the proposed zoning changes, the public hearing, and
allowing time for further Council discussion.
Voting Aye by Roll Call Vote: Thomas Nay: McKee, Bottema, Nichols, and Schultz
(Motion fails 1:4)
Council directed staff to continue Council zoning discussion to a future meeting with the City Attorney
Thames in attendance. Council noted mask mandates and distancing requirements end on May 28.
City Administrator Martens noted the Council Chambers may be available for the June 10 Council
meeting. Council consensus indicated continuation of the discussion to the May 27 Council meeting.
9. Unfinished Business (Public Comment Opportunity)
Mayor McKee invited residents to communicate telephonically during the public comment opportunity
for Unfinished Business items included on the agenda. Administrative Services Director tea
se
explained the instructions to participate in the meeting via the Zoom video format and reviewed
instructions for participation in the meeting. No residents participated in the public comment
opportunity.
a. Corcoran Trail East/West Feasibility Study
Public Works Director Mattson presented Corcoran Trail Street Improvements project, the history of
the feasibility study and small stormwater evaluation and noted the virtual neighborhood meeting held
with comments received on April 21. Public Works Director Mattson reviewed the existing gravel roads
areas and paved roads sections from the 1980's, with recommendation of a full -depth reclamation with
new gravel pavement on top. Public Works Director Mattson explained yearly budgeting includes one
free overlay for neighborhoods per the assessment policy when applicable, and noted where a free
overlay does not apply. Public Works Director Mattson reviewed Alternate 1 and Alternate 2. Public
Works Director Mattson noted the assessed free overlay value benefit, as requested by Council
direction, is 90 percent of the mid -range appraised value and equates to an $1,800 credit. Public
Works Director Mattson reviewed the Alternate 2 amended report corrects the error of benefit credit
applied to the gravel property and applies the benefit credit correctly to the paved properties. Public
4
Works Director Mattson explained the two alternate street improvement estimated costs and
nts with a total project cost of
r Mattson reviewed the stormwater improvement alternatives and
assessments for discussion, noting local and special assessme
$534,528.80. Public Works Directo
estimated costs noting existing issues over the hi
story of Corcoran Trail East and West. Public Works
Director Mattson reviewed the project schedule. Public Works Director Mattson reviewed funding for
the stormwater improvements could include a combination of special assessments and local
participation. Council confirmed the $1,800 overlay in Alternate 2 Assessment Roll reflects a credit to
paved roads. Public Works Director Mattson noted the credit is reflected in the Special Assessments
cost of $176,400.00. Council clarified the overlay credit for the project was written into assessment
code policy for older neighborhoods in Corcoran, and benefit credit is not subject to future overlays
within the neighborhood or other paved or future paved roads in Corcoran.
MOTION: made by Schultz, seconded by Thomas to accept the Corcoran Trail Street Improvement
Feasibility Study and order the Improvement Hearing by Resolution 2021-41 Receiving the Feasibility
Report and Calling a Public Hearing on Improvement for the Corcoran Trail East/West Improvements
Project.
Voting Aye by Roll Call Vote: McKee, Bottema, Nichols, Schultz, and Thomas
(Motion carried 5:0)
10. New Business (Public Comment Opportunity)
a. Improvement Hearing —Appaloosa Woods Street Improvement Project
City Administrator Martens outlined the Appaloosa Woods Street Improvement Project noting the
Corcoran section of the project. City Administrator Martens reviewed the history of the project with
Maple Grove dating back to 2019 through current action of Maple Grove opening bids in early May.
City Administrator Martens noted letters were mailed to residents on April 30. City Administrator
Martens reviewed the scope of the project includes reconditioning existing pavement and improving
the remainder from gravel to bituminous, the proposed assessment cost for properties accessing
existing gravel to new pavement of $13,500, and properties accessing existing pavement to new
pavement cost of $7,200. City Administrator Martens noted a term of 10 years with 1 percent over the
borrowing interest cost for the project, or bond issue interest, which is currently 1.83 percent. City
Administrator Martens reviewed anticipated projects costs of $185,798 estimated in the feasibility
study, with an updated estimate at $157,623, indicating the project cost may result in lower
assessments to properties.
Mayor McKee opened the Public Hearing for item 10a. Administrative Services Director Beise
explained the instructions to participate in the Public Hearing via the Zoom video format and reviewed
instructions for participation through telephone or computer.
Paige Peterson, 19140 84th Place North, asked if the benefit credit on the Corcoran Trail East/West
Project and asked if the credit would apply with reconstruction of Appaloosa paving reconstruction.
City Administrator Martens confirmed the benefit credit would not apply to this repaving project.
MOTION: made by Nichols, seconded by McKee to close Public Hearing.
Voting Aye by Roll Call Vote: McKee, Bottema, Nichols, Schultz, and Thomas
(Motion carried 5:0)
Council and staff discussed possible estimate of cost savings of $30,000 in assessments. City
Administrator Martens noted a report would be brought back to Council once savings are realized and
prior to assessment hearing. Council noted the combined project savings for the two cities as an
opportune time to improve the road. Council noted priority of realizing road improvement costs relating
to specific properties and roads, and the continued gravel road and paving challenges in Corcoran.
Dave McStott, 8040 Ridge Court, commented on assessment amount and if assessment will include
new asphalt in front of his driveway to end of cul de sac where it is public road. City Administrator
Martens indicated that portion is not included in the project and only the public portion that extends to
the right of the way is included, as it benefits the properties accessing the street. Mr. McStott opined a
private easement exists and believes it is a public right of way in the cul de sac area and questioned
why asphalt is not being laid in front of his property. Mayor McKee noted this situation could be
brought forth at the assessment hearing. Mr. McStott asked when the hearing would be. City
5
Administrator Martens clarified the property questioned is not city -owned property or land where the
private drive is located. City Administrator Martens noted the improvement hearing allows the project
to move forward, and the assessment hearing would provide an opportunity for property owners to
appeal the assessment. Mr. McStott asked again when the hearing would be. Mayor McKee indicated
the meeting has not been established yet but will be publicly noticed in the paper and the City will keep
residents informed as the assessment hearing is scheduled. City Administrator Martens and Mayor
McKee encouraged property owners to contact City Administrator Martens and Council regarding
additional discussion pertaining to the project.
Shelby Burgess, 19360 81 St Place North, inquired about the benefit of a paved road to property owners
and how the amount is determined. Mayor McKee encouraged the participant to contact City
Administrator Martens for specific information regarding methodology in benefit determinations.
MOTION: made by Schultz, seconded by Thomas to approve Resolution 2021-42 Ordering
Improvement of the Appaloosa Woods Street Improvement Project, and authorizing the mayor and city
administrator to execute joint powers agreement.
Voting Aye by Roll Call Vote: McKee, Bottema, Nichols, Schultz, and Thomas
(Motion carried 5:0)
Mayor McKee opened the public comment opportunity for items 10b-h. Administrative Services
Director Beise explained the instructions to participate in the public comment opportunity via the Zoom
video format and reviewed instructions for participation through telephone or computer. No residents
participated in the public comment opportunity.
b. 2020 Budget Transfers
City Administrator Martens noted the 2020 audit is near completion and outlined the 2020 budget
transfer opportunities. City Administrator Martens reviewed the items relating to the expenses included
Federal CARES funding for COVID, an asphalt project expense not completed, absence of a planner
position and maintenance work position for 6 months and an entire year respectively, and vacancies in
police officer positions for several months. City Administrator Martens reviewed allocation
recommendations. Additionally, City Administrator Martens reviewed the 2016 Downtown Utility and
Street Improvement Fund balance of $491,922, noting Wenck and Public Works Director Mattson's
efficient management of the project allowing for the fund balance, and recommended transferring the
fund balance to the Asphalt Fund for future street projects. Council noted the difference in tax revenue
exceeding expenses and the thoroughness by City Administrator Martens explaining the reason for the
differences and anomalies in expenses in 2020, specifically noting overall tax revenue growth in the
City.
MOTION: made by Nichols, seconded by McKee to approve Resolution 2021-43 Authorizing 2020
Interfund Budget Transfers as presented.
Voting Aye by Roll Call Vote: McKee, Bottema, Nichols, Schultz, and Thomas
(Motion carried 5:0)
c. Bridge Replacements — Accept Feasibility Study and Authorize Plans and Specifications
Public Works Director Mattson reviewed the Council authorization for a bridge replacement feasibility
study noting the bridge crossings were considered critical infrastructure to the city's transportation and
stormwater drainage systems. Public Works Director Mattson noted Hennepin County monitors the
bridges annually for rating considerations. Public Works Director Mattson reviewed the bridge
replacement amounts for Trail Haven Road and Schutte road are $35,000 and $30,000 respectively,
and noted bridge replacement locations. Public Works Director Mattson reviewed existing and
proposed culverts, future maintenance, flow rates, flood elevation, and estimated replacement costs.
Council asked for clarification of flow rates. City Engineer Torve explained engineering analysis of the
flood model. Public Works Director Mattson further explained the analysis of equalizing conveyance of
the water through the various cross section locations. City Engineer Torve noted priority of FEMA and
watershed regulations, noting is not specific to just engineering review. Council and staff discussed
further analysis to be completed regarding existing water flow and future water flow within the bridges.
Public Works Director Mattson noted project funding avenues of state bonding programs, municipal
state aid system, and fronting initial cost through local participation. Public Works Director Mattson
6
noted tracking expenses from Asphalt Fund initially and prior to setup of a Bridge Replacement
Improvement Project Fund. Public Works Director Mattson noted Trail Haven Road and Schutte Road
were selected for repairs as both bridges are currently in need of replacement, and both are within,
and qualify for funding in the state aid system. Council asked for clarification of fronted costs of the
bridges. Public Works Director Mattson reviewed the grant system process, noting qualification for the
grant includes action by the City to be shovel -ready and includes upfront costs for a feasibility study
and engineering design prior to selection and allocation of eligible grants. Public Works Director
Mattson outlined upon award of project, upfront costs would be reimbursed and allocated to City
accordingly.
MOTION: made by Schultz, seconded by Thomas to accept the Bridge Replacements Feasibility
Study, approve Resolution 2021-44 Authorizing Plans and Specifications for Trail Haven Road and
Schutte Road Bridge Replacements in the amount of $65,000.
Council discussed Trail Haven Bridge and the collapse of bridge and the impacts to commuters on the
road. Councilmember Bottema noted he lives on Trail Haven Road and will abstain from voting.
Council noted the bridge replacemenfi is due t0 safety.
Voting Aye by Roll Call Vote: McKee, Nichols, Schultz, and Thomas
(Motion carried 4:0:1)
d. Recreational Vehicle Ordinance Update
Abstain : Bottema
Director of Public Safety Gottschalk outlined the existing code chapters 72 and 73 pertaining to
recreational vehicle use and includes snowmobile and off -road vehicle regulations would be deleted
and replaced with Chapter 72 Recreational Vehicles. Director of Public Works Gottschalk reviewed
past history of the ordinance noting recent Council direction in 2020 to review ordinance for
consistency with current statutes and to update the ordinance with feedback from councilmembers.
Director of Public Gottschalk reviewed the changes between the ordinances including the new
recreational vehicle definitions, new state language, and classifications for vehicles. Director of Public
Safety Gottschalk noted the draft ordinance provides guidance on the operation of golf carts within the
City, and further defines semi-public property as private property generally open for use by the public
but not owned or maintained by the City. Director of Public Safety Gottschalk addressed the existence
Of Established Riding Areas for all recreational vehicles. Director of Public Safety Gottschalk reviewed
prohibiting operation on sidewalks and trails that stipulate recreational vehicles may not operate with a
greater number of passengers than the vehicle is designed to carry and use of recreational vehicles on
any single property shall not exceed four hours in any 24-hour period, with an exemption for vehicles
engaged in property maintenance or agricultural purposes. Director of Public Safety Gottschalk noted
maintaining a balance for residents wishing to use ATVs and for residents not wanting the extra noise
ATV's create. Director of Public Safety Gottschalk reviewed a change within parcels less than two
acres in size requires written consent from the property owners in all occupied residences within 250'
radius of all property lines. Director of Public Safety Gottschalk noted exceptions to the ordinance were
added for restricted areas to allow loading and unloading of snowmobiles in parking lots, operation
clarification on designated trails, operation hours of recreational vehicles inside and outside of the
MUSA areas, and where recreational vehicles are allowed including written permission on private
property and public roadways. Director of Public Works Gottschalk reviewed recreational vehicle
permit requirements for on -road use on City roads, length of permit, waiver and approvals, revocation
and the appeals process. Council and staff discussed the appeal process to Council as it is a permit
and not applicable to the courts. Director of Public Safety Gottschalk reviewed the proposed violation
penalties. Council discussed updates to the recreational vehicle ordinance in Corcoran and noted
confirmation of specific snowmobile dates. Council and staff discussed enforcement issue regarding
the 4-hour usage update, noise issues such as altered mufflers on recreational vehicles, and goals set
forth by implementing the update ordinance regarding recreational vehicles. Council noted resident
ability to cross over County Roads and Highways to get to a City roadway, and semi -private roads
such as trails accessing a public parking area of a business. Council and staff discussed fee structure
for recreational vehicles at the City level and how fees are established, noted fees are intended to
cover costs only and not intended to produce revenue for the City. Council provided staff direction in
7
implementing updates to ordinance and requested aligning dates to mirror state guidelines in property
access permission from April 1 to November 30 and December 1 to March 31.
e. Employee Handbook Update
Administrative Services Director Beise presented changes to the Employee Handbook noting the last
update in 2017. Administrative Services Director Beise reviewed the changes align with current
practices regarding the pandemic, language for the health and safety plan pertaining to the pandemic,
extended leave check -ins during the pandemic, and reflect organizational changes implemented.
Council noted removal of Wings Credit Union. Staff noted an additional change to allow Director of
Public Safety Gottschalk authority to post media releases.
MOTION: made by Nichols, seconded by Schultz to adopt the
revised Corcoran Employee Handbook
effective May 142021as amended , , .
Voting Aye by Roll Call Vote: McKee, Bottema, Nichols, Schultz, and Thomas
(Motion carried 5:0)
f. Charter Commission Application
City Administrator Martens noted an additional Charter Commission application and requested
direction from Council on process for Charter Commission applications. Council and staff discussed
commissioners and allowing the current process to proceed with the appointed 7 members, and
retaining future Charter Commission applications for future commission openings within the City.
Council encouraged residents to apply for commissions. Council noted a request from staff for a brief
update monthly for commission applications received.
g. Recycling Contract RFP
Administrative Services Director Beise reviewed the recycling service contract expiration in December
2021, reviewed the options to renew with Randy's or go out for RFP, and reviewed Hennepin
County's Organic Recycling requirement within residential recycling services. Administrative Services
Director Beise noted organics is usually picked up with garbage pickup schedules and noted the City
could see some savings by utilizing a single hauler with organics, recycling, and garbage hauling.
Council discussed review of utilizing a single hauler option. Council reviewed not limiting resident
choices on garbage hauling. Administrative Services Director Beise clarified requirements could be
specific to hauling on specific days, and licensed within the City, and not limiting resident choice in
garbage hauling. City Administrator Martens noted with complaints from residents, the licensing could
require a representative for residents to contact in the case of service issues. Council discussed going
out for an RFP and licensing. Council noted impacts to companies with restrictions on garbage or
recycling pick-up dates. Council noted surveying smaller haulers and not just national haulers.
Council discussed RFP and if it is manageable for staff to proceed with an RFP for organics,
recycling, and garbage hauler licensing.
MOTION: made by Thomas, seconded by Schultz to seek an RFP for organics, recycling, garbage
hauling, and options for garbage hauler licensing.
Council asked if items could be separated. Councilmember Thomas and Schultz retracted first and
second Motion respectively.
MOTION: made by Thomas, seconded by Schultz to seek an RFP for garbage hauling, organic
recycling, and paper recycling services.
Council noted impact to staff resources and time in managing an RFP. Administrative Services
Director Beise indicated the last RFP for garbage hauling was in 2015 and will be a starting point in
managing an RFP review in 2021.
Voting Aye by Roll Call Vote: McKee, Schultz, and Thomas Nay: Bottema, Nichols
(Motion carried 3:2)
MOTION: made by Thomas, seconded by Schultz to review licensing options for garbage hauling
services.
Voting Aye by Roll Call Vote: McKee, Bottema, Nichols, Schultz, and Thomas
(Motion carried 5:0)
h. Embedded Social Worker
E'?
Director of Public Safety Gottschalk reviewed the embedded social services component within police
departments, and services provided through Hennepin County, and the potential for a combined
embedded social worker position. Director of Public Safety Director Gottschalk noted the position
would be shared with seven surrounding cities along with Hennepin County and noted quality of life
improvement for community receiving help needed and reduced reliance on police response. Director
of Public Safety Gottschalk noted the position would be a Hennepin County employee but would be
serving the seven communities. Within the proposal, Director of Public Safety Gottscha
Hennepin County's program would pay for 40 percent of position and technology associated with the
position, and the participating communities would split the remaining costs. Director of Public Safety
Gottschalk noted a commitment of two years for the program. Council inquired on program. Director
of Public Safety Gottschalk responded with an explanation of the types of programs and include co
responder or embedded social worker models. Director of Public Safety Gottschalk noted co -
responder goes on calls for services in community, and embedded social worker receives the
information after incident and follows up with the person needing to receive services within the
community. Director of Public Safety Gottschalk reviewed cost differences of the two positions, and
noted the co -responder model is more complex, difficult to manage and carries more expense than
the social worker embedded model, and added the co -responder model is not practical to split
between agencies. Director of Public Safety Gottschalk outlined the scope of the embedded social
worker position, indicating the position would office out of Corcoran one day a week to ensure the
connection with officers, meet with residents from a referral from an officer, and follow up with
community members as necessary for services. Council and staff discussed mental health training
with officers and responses to mental health situations. Council noted the recent police department
second safest city award, and the embedded social worker position as benefit to residents through tax
dollars. Council discussed partnering with seven cities and Hennepin County and pursuing the
position independently as a City, and noting this is a first step for the City in setting up the groundwork
for future opportunities and services for residents.
MOTION: made by Thomas, seconded by Nichols to approve and direct staff to enter into a contract
on the embedded social worker position with a cost of $8,600 to $12,100 per year, dependent upon
on agency participation, with a 2-year participation commitment to the Hennepin County supported
program.
Council clarified if the cost exceeds $12,100, staff will bring back to Council for additional review.
Voting Aye by Roll Call Vote: McKee, Bottema, Nichols, Schultz, and Thomas
(Motion carried 5:0)
11. Closed Session
a. Easement Agreement for 66t" Avenue/Gleason Parkway Corridor Improvements; removed
from agenda.
12. Staff Reports
a. Financial Performance Update; council received report.
b. Pandemic Response Update
Director of Public Safety Gottschalk noted the State continues to move forward with vaccinations,
noting the recent announcement by Governor Walz to remove some restrictions for individuals who
are fully vaccinated, and excitement overall but still approaching the pandemic with caution.
13.2021 City Council Schedule
City Administrator Martens noted item the closed session item will be scheduled for a future meeting.
Councilmember Bottema noted his absence at the June 10 Council meeting. Council noted the
authorization during the pandemic, and with restrictions tapering off, will staff and Council need to
review what may be needed for staff to continue with operations. City Administrator Martens noted the
City's emergency order is parallel to the Governor's order, and the existing emergency order expires
with the Governor's order. Council and staff discussed implementing a sunset policy on emergency
orders that differs from the State mandate. Director of Public Safety Gottschalk noted the City's ability
to react and flexibility regarding emergency orders to make sure our City has the flexibility to respond
appropriately.
14. Adjournment
MOTION: made by Schultz, seconded by Thomas to adjourn.
Voting Aye by Roll Call Vote: McKee, Bottema, Nichols, Schultz, and Thomas
(Motion carried 500)
Meeting adjourned at 11 E03 pm.
Michelle Friedrich —Deputy Clerk
10