Happy New Year!!!

We are just under 7 hours away from ushering in 2012 and a handful more hours away from the first Republican Primary vote in Iowa. Many of us will venture out this evening to embark in celebrating 2011 while introducing oneself to 2012. If you are one that will be venturing out of the home this evening be safe and responsible for your actions. Tradition of New Year will have many of us professing resolutions that will go largely unfilled. My goal is to make resolutions that will be achieved. Here is the short list:

1. I resolve to lose 15 pounds by exercising vigorously three times a week.
2. I resolve to dig deeper into the issues of the day.
3. I resolve to vet all candidates that will be running for office.
4. I resolve to help educate children.

I wish all that read/follow this blog a Happy New Year! May all your wishes come true.

The Politics of the Payroll Tax Cut

Before going on vacation the Senate passed a temporary bill that would extend the payroll tax relief, passed previously under the Bush tax cut plan, for the first two months in 2012. The bill passed with bi-partisan support while ignoring the House passed version that called for a yearlong payroll tax relief. Originally, President Obama wanted a yearlong payroll tax relief and is now pushing House Speaker Boehner to pass the Senate bill. Instead of complying with President Obama's request, the House never entertained the bill instead they put forth a resolution that the Senate identify members of their chamber for a conference committee to iron out the difference between the two bills. That being said, much is being blown out of portion on the payroll tax relief. President Obama and Democrats are saying that without passing the Senate Bill the average America will see their payrolls slashed by $1000.

Now, this $1000 does not come out in the first or second check one will receive in 2012; rather it is spread out over the entire year. What are being missed in this conversation are two things: that the payroll tax is actually what fuels SSN and Democrats railed against the extension of Bush tax cuts last year. The payroll tax is that line item known as FICA that adds money to SSN. During the past debt ceiling discussion the Democrats said that Republicans were looking to take away SSN benefits to seniors. By extending the payroll tax relief it is projected to underfund SSN by $250M. SSN is already set to be paying out more than it takes in with then next decade. Democrats are now arguing that the extra 2% reduction in payroll tax will help stimulate the economy but when the lame duck Congress was in place in 2010 Democrats voice opposition to extending the Bush tax cuts because it didn't result in stimulus of the economy.

If Congress is serious about ensuring more people have money in the pocket to spend and stimulate the economy they why not pass real tax reform. While I know that scrapping our tax format all together for a flat tax is not likely to take place why not alter all the tax brackets downward by the 2% and leave FICA alone. Even companies that deal with payroll acknowledge that instituting a two-month temporary fix will make a logistical nightmare and increase payroll expenses. How does that help or encourage a business owner to hire a new employee? I hope the Speaker Boehner sticks to his guns and demands that Congress agree to a permanent fix or at the minimum a one-year extension; something the President Obama wants anyway.

Paul rips Romney, Gingrich as 'from the same mold'

Paul rips Romney, Gingrich as 'from the same mold'

I know Ron Paul has been the castoff in the Republican party because of his small government ideals but does this man make sense? Can he have the answers that we need to make our country strong again? I know he wants to cut $1T today. Doesn't that make more sense then cutting it over then next 10 years? I mean, why do we allow taxes now and cuts to spending over a period of time?

Hamburg City Council Agenda – December 13, 2011

• Call City Council Meeting to Order at 7:00 PM
  
  • Pledge of Allegiance
    

 

• Public Comment
  (Individuals may address the City Council about any non-agenda item(s) of concern. Speakers must state their name, address, and limit their remarks to three minutes. The City Council may not take official action on these items and may refer the matter to staff for a future report or direct that the matter be scheduled for a future meeting agenda.)
  

 

• Agenda Review (Added Items) and Adoption
  

 

• Consent Agenda
  (NOTICE TO PUBLIC: All those items listed as part of the Consent Agenda will be approved by a single motion, unless a request to discuss one of those items is made prior to that time. Anyone present at the meeting may request an item to be removed from the consent agenda. Please inform the Council when they approve the agenda for this meeting.)
  
  • Approve Resolution Number 2011-17
    
  • Approve Resolution Number 2011-18
    
  • Approve Contract for Policing Services for 2012 with Carver County
    
  • Approve Cigarette License for Parkside Tavern (2012)
    
  • Approve Minutes for September 27, 2011, October 11, 2011, October 25, 2011
    
  • Adopt Fund Balance Policy (GASB 54)
    
  • Cancel December 27^th City Council Meeting
    
    • Next City Council Meeting January 10, 2012
      
  • Potential Refunding of Existing Debt (Memo from Ehlers)
    
  • MAOSC December News Update (Traffic Sign Replacement)
    
  • Water Usage Report for 2011
    
  • Nuisance Letter(s) Report
    
  • Delinquent Utility Bills Report
    
  • Project Lists (City Employees)
    
  • City Offices Closed December 23^rd & 26^th for Christmas Holiday
    

  
   

• Fire Department Report – Chief Brad Droege
  
  • FEMA Grant
    
  • HFD Officers for 2012
    
  • FD Accident on December 2, 2011
    
  • Memorial for Public Servants (Protective Services) Update
    
  • HFDRA Lucky 10 Gun Raffle – December 10, 2011
    
  • Toy Drive Breakfast – December 11, 2010
    
    • Holiday Toy Drive
      
  • Fire Department Banquet/Dance (January 7, 2012)
    
  • HFDRA Retirement Account
    

    
     

    
     

    
     

• City Engineers – S.E.H. Inc.
  
  • Justin Black & John Rodeberg
    
    • Local Water Management Plan Update (June 2012)
      
    • Water Tower Maintenance Program
      
    • Phosphorus Management Plan (2014)
      

    
     

• 2012 Final Tax Levy and Final Budget (Set & Adopt)
  
  • Utility Rate Study (Abdo, Eick & Meyers)
    
  • City Fee Schedule for 2012
    
    • Set Public Hearing to Adopt City Fee Schedule
      
      • January 10, 2012 @ 6:45 PM
        
  • 2011 General Fund Transfers (Approve)
    
  • Public Comments on 2012 Final Budget & Tax Levy
    
    • Adopt/Approve 2012 Final Tax Levy Certification to Carver County
      
    • Adopt/Approve 2012 Final Budget
      

      
       

• Sanitary Sewer & Storm Sewer Improvements Project
  
  • PFA Loan Disbursement
    

    
     

• Old City Business (Memo)
  
  • City Clean Up Day (Spring 2012)
    
  • 2010 Census Count/Met Council Population Estimates (June 1, 2013)
    

    
     

• Public Works & Utilities Department Report
  
  • Utility Locater/Camera
    
  • Purchase Tables for Community Hall
    

  
   

• City Clerk/Treasurer Report
  
  • City Employee Reviews
    
    • 2012 Wages and Benefits
      
  • Equipment Sharing Agreement (Carver County Cities)
    

 

• Approve Payment of December 2011 Claims
  

 

• City Council Reports
  
  • Councilmember Mueller Report (Sewer & Water)
    
  • Councilmember Lund Report (Streets)
    
  • Councilmember Trebesch Report (Buildings)
    
  • Councilmember Barnes Report (Parks)
    
  • Mayor Malz Report
    

 

• Adjourn City Council Meeting
  
  

 

 

 

 

 

COMMUNITY HALL & PARK ACTIVITIES

 

 

NOVEMBER                 14-15 – Fahey Inc. Auction

18 – Hamburg Lions Fall Bingo

 

 

DECEMBER                 3 – Wedding Reception (Kraemer)

                    10 – Hamburg Lions Club Lunch with Santa

 

 

 

 

 

COMMUNITY CENTER (FIRE HALL) ACTIVITIES

                    

 

 

NOVEMBER                 7 – Hamburg Lions Club

                      8 – Hamburg City Council Meeting – 7:00 PM

                      8 – Young America Township Meeting

                    11 – Veterans Day Holiday – City Offices Closed

                    13 – Washington Lakers 4-H Club

20 – Community Center Rental (Biermann)

21 – Hamburg Lions Club

                    22 – Hamburg City Council Meeting – 7:00 PM

                    24 – Community Center Rental (Sprengeler)

                    24 – Thanksgiving Holiday – City Offices Closed

                    25 – Thanksgiving Holiday – City Offices Closed

                    26 – Community Center Rental (Wroge)

                    28 – Budget Workshop Meeting – 6:00 PM

                    28 – Hamburg Fire Dept. (Relief Association) – 7:00 PM

 

 

DECEMBER                 2 – Hamburg Lions Christmas Party

                      5 – Hamburg Lions Club

    11 – Washington Lakers 4-H Club

13 – Hamburg City Council Meeting – 7:00 PM

16 – Community Center Rental (Wolter)

17 – Community Center Rental (Kroells)

                    18 – Community Center Rental (Tiggelaar)

                    19 – Hamburg Lions Club

                    23 – Christmas Eve Holiday Observed – City Offices Closed

25 – Community Center Rental – John Kuenzel

                    26 – Christmas Day Holiday Observed – City Offices Closed

                    26 – Hamburg Fire Dept. (Relief Association) – 7:00 PM

                    

 

Thanksgiving Day!!!!

Yesterday millions of Americans traveled via airplane, bus and car to arrive at their destination to spend Thanksgiving Day with family and friends. I recall big celebrations leading up to this day while attending elementary school. I recall creating a cornucopia, dressing up as pilgrims and Indians, and exploring the history of Thanksgiving. Today schools barely even mention Thanksgiving; why is that? Not to mention that some in our society see Thanksgiving as the start of the destruction of North America. A friend of mine on Facebook wrote this yesterday – "Today is the eve of the day that people celebrate another sad day in "White Washed History". People will give thanks to God for the slaughter,rape,torture,giving of small pox,erasure of a civilization of peoples,as they sit back get fat,& watch football,& then go stand in a long azz line to get screwed over for Black Friday."

While we will never know for certain, we can recognize that had Europeans not traveled to North America many of us would not be here nor may I have the opportunity to write this blog. Life in pre-colonial, colonial, industrial revolution, and the 21^st Century are all different to their challenges and triumphs. That being said, I am thankful that the Europeans crossed the ocean and established the New World because it has allowed our society to evolve to a point where everyone has the opportunity to create their destiny in life. Sure some of us start out better than others but I heard this question recently – "If you could choose any country to be born into knowing that you'd be brought into the world as the poorest person in that country – What country would you choose?"

I cannot think of any other country in the world that one would choose to be born into than the United States of America. With all her faults the fact remains that the United States is the only place on Earth that has an environment that everyone (no matter your race, gender, class status) is given the opportunity to create their own future. I give thanks to that. Our Forefathers had the wisdom and courage to create a form of government that broke the chains of serfdom as imperfect it may have been. I give thanks to that. In less than 300 years the United States has gone from militia units to the most powerful military force on the planet. Through that time we have defended the freedoms our Forefathers crafted and I give thanks for that.

As we continue through the second decade of the 21^st Century we face tyranny within our shores. Our elected officials have become drunk with power and greed. They have lost their way to remember who they really represent – the people – not the special interest groups that give copious amounts of dollars to their campaigns. We have an opportunity today to reflect on the things that we are thankful for and what is important to us. My hope is that as people gather around the kitchen table to feast that people recognize that we are at a crossroads. As much as today is about giving thanks for the bounty of the past it is also an opportunity for us to discuss our future. I am thankful for the Tea Party and OWS rallies for the assembly of people into a common theme to protest the government is a cornerstone of building that our Forefathers erected.

Other things that I am thankful for today are: to have my health and my children's health, to have the ability to provide shelter, food and clothing for my family, to be given the opportunity to run my own business, to have friends that agree and disagree with me, and to have been born in the United States. Happy Thanksgiving Day!!!!

Hamburg City Council Agenda – November 22, 2011

• Call City Council Meeting to Order at 7:00 PM
  
  • Pledge of Allegiance
    

 

• Public Comment
  (Individuals may address the City Council about any non-agenda item(s) of concern. Speakers must state their name, address, and limit their remarks to three minutes. The City Council may not take official action on these items and may refer the matter to staff for a future report or direct that the matter be scheduled for a future meeting agenda.)
  

 

• Agenda Review (Added Items) and Adoption
  

 

• Consent Agenda
  (NOTICE TO PUBLIC: All those items listed as part of the Consent Agenda will be approved by a single motion, unless a request to discuss one of those items is made prior to that time. Anyone present at the meeting may request an item to be removed from the consent agenda. Please inform the Council when they approve the agenda for this meeting.)
  
  • Mediacom Rate Changes (December 15, 2011)
    
  • Cash Flow Statement for October
    
  • MCFOA Region V Training
    
  • City Government Update Seminar (Abdo, Eick & Meyers)
    
  • Xcel Energy Customer Feedback Letter
    
  • MNSPECT MINUTE for November
    
  • Water Usage Report for 2011
    
  • Draft Carver & Bevens Creek Turbidity TMDL Report & Request for Comment (MPCA)
    
  • Temporary On-Sale Liquor Licenses (4) for Lions Club
    
  • Exempt Gambling Permit for Pheasants Forever (January 21, 2012)
    
  • Time Off Request (Jeremy Gruenhagen)
    
  • Delinquent Utility Bills Report
    
  • Project Lists (City Employees)
    
  • City Offices Closed November 24^th & 25^th for Thanksgiving
    

  
   

• Fire Department Report – Chief Brad Droege
  
  • FEMA Grant
    
  • Memorial for Public Servants (Protective Services) Update
    
  • HFD Officers Election
    
  • Firemens Dance (January 7, 2012)
    
  • Holiday Toy Drive
    

 

• Sanitary Sewer & Storm Sewer Improvements Project
  
  • Kim Avenue Repairs
    

    
     

• Old City Business (Memo)
  
  • City Clean Up Day (Spring 2012)
    

 

 

• Community Hall Doors (Replace)
  
  • Estimate from Laurel Builders
    
  • Estimate from Dan Oelfke Construction
    
• Cooler for Community Hall – Update
  

  
   

• Public Works & Utilities Department Report
  
  • Utility Locater/Camera
    

  
   

1. City Clerk/Treasurer Report
   

• 2010 Census Count/Met Council Population Estimates (June 1, 2013)
  
• Mediacom Phone Service
  
• 2011 Budget Items
  
  • Budgeted Items to be Completed in 2011
    
• Budget Workshop Meeting - November 28, 2011 @ 6:00 PM
  
  • 2012 Final Budget/2012 Tax Levy
    
  • City Fee Schedule for 2012
    
    • Water/Sewer/Storm Water Rates for 2012
      
• December 27^th City Council Meeting (Cancel)
  

 

1. Approve Payment of Added November 2011 Claims
   

 

1. City Council Reports
   

• Councilmember Mueller Report (Sewer & Water)
  
• Councilmember Lund Report (Streets)
  
• Councilmember Trebesch Report (Buildings)
  
• Councilmember Barnes Report (Parks)
  
• Mayor Malz Report
  

 

1. Recess City Council Meeting
   

 

1. Move to Closed Meeting for the purpose of Employee Reviews [Unless any employee requests an Open Meeting for his/her review. Any Open Meeting for Employee Review(s) shall be held prior to any Closed Meeting for Employee Review(s)]
   

• Sue Block
  
• Dennis Byerly
  
• Jeremy Gruenhagen
  

 

1. Move to Close Closed Meeting for Employee Reviews
   

 

1. Move to Reopen the City Council Meeting
   

 

1. Adjourn City Council Meeting
   
   

 

 

 

COMMUNITY HALL & PARK ACTIVITIES

 

 

NOVEMBER                 14-15 – Fahey Inc. Auction

18 – Hamburg Lions Fall Bingo

 

 

DECEMBER                 3 – Wedding Reception (Kraemer)

                    10 – Hamburg Lions Club Lunch with Santa

 

 

 

 

 

COMMUNITY CENTER (FIRE HALL) ACTIVITIES

                    

 

 

NOVEMBER                 7 – Hamburg Lions Club

                      8 – Hamburg City Council Meeting – 7:00 PM

                      8 – Young America Township Meeting

                    11 – Veterans Day Holiday – City Offices Closed

                    13 – Washington Lakers 4-H Club

20 – Community Center Rental (Biermann)

21 – Hamburg Lions Club

                    22 – Hamburg City Council Meeting – 7:00 PM

                    24 – Community Center Rental (Sprengeler)

                    24 – Thanksgiving Holiday – City Offices Closed

                    25 – Thanksgiving Holiday – City Offices Closed

                    26 – Community Center Rental (Wroge)

                    28 – Budget Workshop Meeting – 6:00 PM

                    28 – Hamburg Fire Dept. (Relief Association) – 7:00 PM

 

 

DECEMBER                 2 – Hamburg Lions Christmas Party

                      5 – Hamburg Lions Club

    11 – Washington Lakers 4-H Club

13 – Hamburg City Council Meeting – 7:00 PM

16 – Community Center Rental (Wolter)

17 – Community Center Rental (Kroells)

                    18 – Community Center Rental (Tiggelaar)

                    19 – Hamburg Lions Club

                    23 – Christmas Eve Holiday Observed – City Offices Closed

25 – Community Center Rental – John Kuenzel

                    26 – Christmas Day Holiday Observed – City Offices Closed

                    26 – Hamburg Fire Dept. (Relief Association) – 7:00 PM

                    

 

Hamburg City Council Minutes – October 11, 2011

Mayor Richard Malz called the Hamburg City Council meeting to order at 7:02 p.m. Councilmember Steve Trebesch, Councilmember Chris Lund, Councilmember John Barnes, Councilmember Larry Mueller, City Clerk Jeremy Gruenhagen, Deputy Clerk Sue Block, and Fire Chief Brad Droege were in attendance. Maintenance Worker Dennis Byerly was absent.

 

Agenda Review (Added Items) and Adoption

• Add – Payment #6 for the Sanitary Sewer & Storm Sewer Improvement Project
  
• Add – Membership to Health Partnership
  
• Add – Estimates from Laurel Builders for the Community Center fiber optic room and Hall doors
  
• Add – Updated Delinquency Report
  
• Add – Carver County Sheriff's Report
  
• Councilmember Mueller moved to approve the agenda with the added items, seconded by Councilmember Lund and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

Approve Consent Agenda

• Time-Off Request (Dennis Byerly)
  
• Snow Removal Contract for 2011-12 (Wm. Mueller & Sons)
  
• Temporary On-Sale Liquor License for the Lions Club (November 18, 2011)
  
• Preliminary Flood Insurance Study Report & Flood Insurance Rate Map
  
• 2010 Generalized Land Use Data for Metro Area (Met Council)
  
• 2011 Water Usage Report
  
• Cash Flow Statement for August
  
• Delinquent Utility Bills Report
  
• Nuisance Letter(s) Report
  
• Project List (City Employees)
  
• Councilmember Lund moved to approve the Consent Agenda, seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

  
   

Fire Department Report – Chief Brad Droege

 

FEMA Grant

• FEMA Grant has been submitted.
  

Fire Prevention Week (October 9^th to 15^th)

• October 14^th a fire prevention demonstration for kids will be held at the Fire Station.
  

Memorial for Public Servants (Protective Services) – Update

• Chief Droege gave a brief update on the progress of the Park Memorial.
  
• The City of Hamburg will carry insurance for the Memorial at $1 per $100 per evaluation.
  
• Councilmember Barnes moved to approve insuring the Memorial for actual replacement cost, seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

 

Sanitary Sewer & Storm Sewer Improvements Project

 

Kim Avenue Repairs

• The repairs on Kim Avenue will begin during the week of October 24^th to October 28^th.
  

Annexation of Storm Water Pond Parcel

• A resolution to annex the Storm Water Pond parcel into the City should be ready for approval by the next Council meeting. It will be a joint resolution with the Township.
  

Storm Water Fees – Vacant City Parcels

• According to City ordinance vacant parcels will not be charged a Storm Water fee until the land is developed.
  
• Council requested verification if a building is on two or more lots if the county taxes each lot separately or as one lot.
  
• Council also requested verifying if the Assessment Roll is by units or parcels and why one vacant lot was added into the proposed Assessment breakout.
  
  • City Clerk Gruenhagen will contact Chuck (S.E.H.) and have an answer at the next Council meeting.
    

 

Old City Business

 

Councilmember Mueller requested to have Deputy Clerk Block be shown what to inform Hall renters on when doing a walk through.

 

Employee Job Descriptions

• Council discussed and decided to add the following to the General Maintenance Worker/Sewer & Water Operator Job Title;
  
  • A required 30 minute response time.
    
  • Maintain a valid Minnesota Class B Driver License.
    
• Councilmember Lund moved to approve the Employee Job Descriptions with the two added items effective October 31, 2011, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch. Councilmember Barnes voted aye on the General Maintenance Worker/Sewer & Water Operator Job Description and aye on City Clerk/Treasurer Job Description and abstained on the Deputy Clerk/Utility Billing Clerk Job Description. Motion carried.
  

Closet for Fiber Optic Equipment/City Storage

• Received estimates from Dan Oelfke and Laurel Builders (Mike);
  
  • Dan Oelfke - $4120
    
  • Laurel Builders - $2625
    
• Council discussed the bids and decided to go with Laurel Builders
  
• Councilmember Lund moved to accept Laurel Builders estimate of $2,625 to build the storage closet for the Fiber Optic equipment and City storage, seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

Community Hall Doors (Replace)

• Council discussed the estimates from Dan Oelfke and Laurel Builders and decided to have City Clerk Gruenhagen verify if the estimate from Laurel Builders is for commercial doors. A decision on who to award the project to will be made at a later time.
  

Cooler for Community Hall

• Council discussed and decided to plan on installing the new cooler at the Hall starting the week of October 24^th.
  
• The following personal will help take out and install the cooler;
  
  • Councilmember Barnes will contact Danny to disconnect the wiring and help install the new cooler.
    
  • Maintenance Worker Byerly will pressure wash the cooler paneling.
    
  • Members of the Hamburg Fire Department will be asked to help.
    
  • Councilmember Trebesch will be the main contact in organizing and completing the project.
    

Hall Rental Fee for Auctions

• Council discussed and decided to increase the Hall rental fee for auctions due to the extra wear and tear on the flooring, additional heating costs, and higher electrical usage. The rental fee will increase from $250 for two days to $450 for two days.
  
• Councilmember Barnes moved to increase the Hall Rental Fee for auctions being held in the Hamburg Hall to $450 for a two day rental, seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  
• Council also decided that the key for the Hall will not be given out until noon on the day of setup.
  

 

Public Works & Utilities Department Report

 

Community Center Repairs

• Council discussed and decided to have Laurel Builders (Mike) fix the Community Center bathroom walls.
  

Utility Locater/Camera

• Council decided to have Maintenance Worker Byerly set up times for three or four different companies to come out and demonstrate their utility cameras.
  

Hall Roof Vent

• Next year Councilmember Trebesch will remove and seal up the old hall ceiling vent. $500 has been budgeted for this project.
  

 

City Clerk/Treasurer Report

 

Utility Rate Study (Abdo, Eick, & Meyers)

• Auditors still working on.
  
• Updating the number of parcels within the city will also be looked at.
  

Municipal Mapping Status Report (MN DOT)

• The mapping report was sent out from Met Council and Council decided that every thing looked correct. City Clerk Gruenhagen will return the report with no changes.
  

Mediacom Business Phone Service

• Mediacom dropped off some business phone service brochures for Council to look over. Council discussed the possibility of changing the Cities internet and phone service to Mediacom. If Council decides on the switch over then they will ask Mediacom for a one year contract instead of the required three year agreement.
  
• City Clerk Gruenhagen will follow up with Mediacom (Brad) for more information on the city bundling phone and internet with Mediacom.
  

Dehumidifier for Community Center

• Hilgers Plumbing and Heating will be submitting an estimate on installing a dehumidifier on the Community Center heating unit.
  

Handicap Accessibility for City Parks

• The City of Hamburg has received $10,000 from the S.H.I.P. Grant. Council will be considering where to place the handicap accessible paths in the parks to the playground equipment.
  

2011 Budget Items Budgeted to be completed in 2011

• Street and Sidewalk repairs have $550 left for the year.
  
• Hall Improvements and Repair has $5,500 left for the year.
  
  • The $5,500 could be used to replace the Hall doors this year.
    
• The other funds are mostly used up because of all the budgeted projects that were completed this year.
  

Vacation

• City Clerk Gruenhagen will be on vacation next week. Council decided to have Deputy Clerk Block work eight hours Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. Closing the City office on Tuesday.
  

 

Approve Payment of Added September 2011 Claims

 

Approve Payment of October 2011 Claims

• Council questioned claim #15269 to Ziegler Inc. for the Fire Department Light Tower repair.
  
  • Council was informed that the Hamburg Fire Department loaned the Light Tower to the Waconia Fair Board and during that time the Light Tower was damaged. Total repair cost was $3,337.15 with Hamburg's insurance covering $2,420.00 minus the $250 deductable. The remaining $667.15 was for other needed Light Tower repairs and will be taken out of the Fire Departments budget.
    
  • Council discussed that the Waconia Fair Board's insurance should have covered the cost of the Light Tower repair.
    
  • City Clerk Gruenhagen will follow up with Fire Chief Droege about what kind of arrangement the Fire Department had with the Fair Board. He will also ask Hamburg's insurance representative if this repair should have been covered by the Waconia Fair Board's insurance company.
    
• Added Claim #15271 from Chard Tiling & Excavating for $64,508.46.
  
• Councilmember Mueller moved to approve claim number 15243 through claim number 15271, plus the six ACH payments, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

 

City Council Reports

 

Councilmember Barnes – had no further comments

Councilmember Mueller (Sewer & Water)

• Two city residents would like to cut down the dead ash tree in the park. Council decided to put their names in a hat and draw who will get the job. The two names were Steve and Mike and Mike's name was drawn by Mayor Malz.
  

Councilmember Lund (Streets)

• Councilmember Lund questioned why the Cities website has not been updated.
  
  • City Clerk Gruenhagen responded that after several requests he has not received the password so the website could be updated. He will email another request for the password.
    

Councilmember Trebesch (Buildings) – had no further comments

Mayor Malz – had no further comments

 

Councilmember Barnes moved to adjourn the Hamburg City Council meeting a t 8:48 p.m., seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.

 

        Submitted by:                                    

        Sue Block

                                                                                                 Deputy Clerk

Hamburg City Council Minutes – August 9, 2011

Acting Mayor Larry Mueller called the Hamburg City Council meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Councilmember Steve Trebesch, Councilmember Chris Lund, Councilmember John Barnes, City Clerk Jeremy Gruenhagen, Deputy Clerk Sue Block, Maintenance Worker Dennis Byerly, and Fire Chief Brad Droege were in attendance. Others in attendance were Darryl Will (431 Maria Ave), Nichelle Schug and Dave Towner (618 Kim Ave), Jim Ische (Carver County Commissioner), Gary Marquardt (624 David Ave - for Fire Department), Tara Chevaller (Green Isle Softball Tournament), and Jen Meyer (Green Isle Softball Tournament). Mayor Malz was absent.

 

Public Comment

• Darryl Will asked Council if they would reconsider allowing the residents along the through alley ways to place their garbage and recycling containers back in the alleys instead of street curb side. Council had previously changed the policy from having the heavy garbage trucks pick up containers in the alley ways to the street curb.
  
  • Council discussed and decided to allow garbage and recycling pick up in the alley's except when the spring weight restrictions are in place.
    
  • A motion to approve the change will be made during Councilmember Lund's report.
    

  
   

Agenda Review (Added Items) and Adoption

• Updated Claims List for June, July, August
  
• Updated Delinquency List
  
• Added – Updated Nuisance Letter List
  
• Added – Memo from Carver County concerning the memorial monument.
  
• Added – Memo from Ehlers, Todd Hagen, concerning Kim Avenue Repairs.
  
• Added – Memo from City Auditor concerning can collections.
  
• Added – Updated Punch List for Sanitary Sewer and Storm Sewer project.
  
• Added – Garbage pick up in alleys to Councilmember Lund's report.
  
• Councilmember Lund moved to approve the agenda with the added items, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

 

Approve Consent Agenda

• Approve Public Hearing Minutes for May 24, 2011 and CC Minutes for June 12, 2011.
  
• On-Sale Temporary Liquor License (Lions Club).
  
• Postcard Memorabilia from 1936
  
• Safety Partners Article – Regional Safety Groups
  
  • Certificate of Appreciation from LMCIT
    
• Water Usage Report for 2011
  
• Cash Flow Statement for June
  
• Hamburg Fire Department Relief Association 2011 Year To Date Return Summary
  
• Councilmember Lund moved to approve the Consent Agenda, seconded by Councilmember Barnes and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

  
   

Fire Department Report – Chief Brad Droege

 

DNR Grant

• A new DNR Grant was applied for.
  

 

FEMA Grant

• The FEMA Grant application starts Monday, August 15, 2011, and runs for a month. If the Hamburg Fire Department receives the grant they will be requesting the purchase of a thermo imaging camera.
  

2012 MESB User Fee for Radios – Extended Warranty for Pagers

• Fire Chief Droege suggested to Council that they approve the four (4) year extended warranty for the Pagers. The cost for the extended warranty would be $75 per pager.
  
  • There is money in the budget for this type of purchase and Council agreed to the extension.
    

National Night Out – August 2, 2011

• Fire Chief Droege thanked Council for serving and Maintenance Worker Byerly for cooking the sweet corn on National Night Out.
  
• Total cost for National Night Out was $293.55. Several donations were received to help off set the cost.
  

HFD By-Laws/City Personnel Policy – Selection vs. Election

• Fire Chief Droege asked Council to think about the City selecting Fire Department Officers instead of the Department electing the officers. Firefighters who are interested in serving as an officer could put in an application with the Council deciding on whom to select.
  
• The Fire Department usually starts organizing an election committee in September.
  

Dehumidifier for Community Center

• The City Office requested if a dehumidifier could be purchased for the Community Center. Fire Chief Droege informed Council that the Fire Department had just purchased one and they would share it with the City Office/Community Center.
  

Chard Payment to Fire Department

• During the construction of the Storm Water/Storm Sewer project Chard hit a gas line and has not paid the Hamburg Fire Department for their service call amounting to $800. Chard is disputing the claim saying the gas line was not marked.
  
  • After some research, by Fire Chief Droege, the billing goes to the person or company that hit the gas line and then that company would have to request payment from the locating company.
    

Memorial for Public Servants (Protective Services)

• Brad Droege is collecting information and donations to build a memorial monument at the Bicentennial Park. Mr. Droege gave Council an overview of the progress he has made and a diagram of the proposed memorial.
  
  • Carver County approved to allow the concrete circular slab and park benches to be no closer than 31 feet from the existing centerline of CR50 instead of the required 33 feet (ROW).
    
  • Carver County will also wave the permit and permit cost if the City of Hamburg informs the County that the City approves of the project.
    
    • City Clerk Gruenhagen will work with Carver County on any documentation that they might need.
      
• Councilmember Trebesch moved to give Brad Droege permission to proceed with the memorial monument on City property, seconded by Councilmember Lund and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

 

Carver County Commissioner Jim Ische

• Commissioner Ische gave Council an updated overview of the counties 2012 proposed budget plans, the fiber optic line schedule, and an update as to when County Road 50 will be redone.
  
  • Council and City Clerk Gruenhagen requested a City cost sheet for redoing County Road 50 through town.
    
  • Council asked Commissioner Ische if he could check into building a bike/walking path from Hamburg to Norwood and Hamburg to Emmanuel Lutheran School.
    

 

Rachel Drees – Request to use Portable Air Conditioners at Hall for Wedding Reception

• Ms. Drees was not in attendance.
  

 

Softball Tournament – Green Isle

• Tara Chevaller and Jen Meyer asked Council if the Green Isle Softball Teem could hold their two day softball tournament in Hamburg. They requested the use of the Park on September 10^th and 11th.
  
• Council commented that September 10^th is the annual Steak Fry held at the Park and that they would have to look at a different date. Council also would require the club to have liquor liability, personal injury waver forms, and pay the required Park Rental Fee of $300 for two days. If these requirements are met then Council had no objection of allowing the Green Isle Softball Tournament to be held in Hamburg.
  
• Tara and Jen will be talking with the Lions Club to find out if they would like to partner with the Softball Club in hosting the tournament. The softball club then could use the Lions liquor liability and liquor license during the event.
  
• Tara and Jen will find out what other dates would work out for the tournament and get back to City Clerk Gruenhagen.
  

 

Sanitary Sewer & Storm Sewer Improvements Project

 

Public Facilities Authority Loan

• The City of Hamburg's application for a PFA loan was approved on July 26, 2011. The Authority's financing package consists of a $290,242 Clean Water Revolving Fund 20-year term loan with an interest rate of 1.256 percent. This financing will approximately save local taxpayers $61,642 in interest costs compared with the City of Hamburg's general obligation bond and elated certifications.
  

Change Order – Substantial Completion Date

• Chard Tiling requested a Change Order to extend the Substantial Completion date to September 15, 2011, for all work related to the Stormwater pond construction only, including fencing. Every item listed on the Punch List will have to be completed by August 19, 2011.
  
• Councilmember Barnes moved to accept the Change Order from Chard Tiling to extend the Substantial Completion date from August 19, 2011 to September 15, 2011 for all work related to the Stormwater pond construction only, including fencing, seconded by Councilmember Lund and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

Private Property Service Lines (Illegal Connections/Replacement)

• Residents receiving the letter of non-compliance (illegal connections) have asked for more clarification on what they need to fix. Some of the questions most often asked were:
  
  • Who pays the contractor for services if the illegal connection is dug up and it really is not an illegal connection.
    
  • Residents are asking for direction from the City on what they have to do. The letters they received are vague and some of the information dates back to 2004.
    
• Council discussed and decided it would be to the cities advantage to purchase a camera to re-televise the lines. This would give the city and residents a more definite answer if the resident does or does not have illegal connections before digging (floor and garage drains can run into the Sanitary Sewer lines).
  
  • Council directed Maintenance Worker Byerly to obtain at least three (3) estimates of how much a camera would cost and report back to Council.
    

Repairs of Kim Avenue

• Chard Tiling & Excavating and Wm. Mueller & Sons submitted estimated proposals to repair Kim Avenue. Wm. Mueller & Sons had the lowest estimate.
  
• Council discussed and decided to make a final decision after August 19, 2011 and to hold a special meeting on August 23^rd, 2011 at 7:00 to discuss this issue.
  

Over or Under Budget

• City Clerk Gruenhagen will ask the City Engineer and Al Hahn to send the City documentation showing if the project is over or under budget.
  

Punch List

• City Clerk Gruenhagen will ask Al Hahn what is the amount of the per day fine if Chard does not complete all the items on the Punch List.
  
• Al Hahn will be asked to go through the areas of construction to see if anything else should be added to the punch list. Council asked to have Al go through the Punch List to verify if the projects listed are complete or need to be completed.
  

 

Old City Business (Memo)

 

Community Park Sign

• The new Community Park sign was installed at the Community Park.
  

Cement Slab for Community Park

• City Clerk Gruenhagen will follow up with K&K Construction as to when they will be pouring the cement slabs in the new park.
  

Review of Employee Job Descriptions

• Councilmember Lund and Councilmember Trebesch will meet with City Clerk Gruenhagen to go over the descriptions.
  

City Clean Up Day

• Council decided to start this fall to plan a City wide spring clean up day.
  

Energy Efficient Lighting – Rebate Programs

• This year may be the last year the rebate program will be available for energy efficient lights.
  
  • Council decided to discuss the installation of energy efficient lighting during the budget meeting on August 23, 2011.
    

 

Public Works & Utilities Department Report

 

Hall Door Replacement Proposal

• Council decided to discuss replacing two Hall doors, with panic bars, at the budget meeting on August 23, 2011.
  

Utility Locater

• Maintenance Worker Byerly will check on how much it would cost to purchase a utility locater.
  
  • Until one is purchased the City could use Wm. Mueller and Sons locater.
    

G&K Contract for Cleaning Supplies

• The City has not signed a renewal contract with G&K which would extend the contract for seven (7) years. The City prefers to sign a contract on an annual basis.
  

 

 

City Alleys (Add Rock/Shape Up)

• More red rock was requested by a resident to fill in the alley by his home. Maintenance Worker Byerly will follow up on this.
  

Cooler in Community Hall Basement

• The basement cooler has been blowing fuses and is not energy efficient due to its age. The Lions Club informed Council that the club will pay up to $300 to have the cooler fixed. Council discussed and decided it was not economical for the City to continue to pay for the coolers electricity usage and to shut it off.
  
• Councilmember Trebesch moved to shut down (unplug) the cooler located in the Hall basement, seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  
  • Maintenance Worker Byerly was instructed to shut the cooler off tomorrow.
    

New Upstairs Cooler for Community Hall

• Council discussed when it would be a good time to install the new upstairs cooler. The old one would have to be dismantled and removed, two feet has to be cut off the edge of the bar, and the new one installed and wired.
  
• Council decided to remove and replace the coolers the last week in October 2011. A new floor will also have to be installed for upstairs cooler.
  

 

Deputy Clerk Report

 

Delinquent Utility Bills

• 350 Louisa – Home is still in the closing process with no information on who the new owner will be.
  
• 360 Henrietta – Leona Enger – A delinquent letter was sent with payment due by August 17^th.
  
• 421 Henrietta – Wm. Minnihan - A delinquent letter was sent with payment due by August 17^th.
  
• 625 Kim Ave – Emily Siebold - A delinquent letter was sent with payment due by August 17^th.
  
• 420 Maria Ave – Betty Griffin - A delinquent letter was sent with payment due by August 17^th.
  
• Park Ave – Ken Bauer Apartments - A delinquent letter was sent with payment due by August 17^th.
  
• 410 Sophia – Darrell Grams, Jr. - A delinquent letter was posted and they have since paid.
  

Nuisance Letters

• The two abandoned vehicles located behind the Car Wash at 679 Park Ave have been removed.
  
• Dennis Mielke owner of the vacant lot at 146 Jacob Street did have the lot mowed.
  
• Teresa Swenson – Brad Street Vacant Lot – was sent violation letter 93.48 Elimination of Weeds and Grass. No response.
  
• Possible abandon car at 470 Maria Ave – CSO checked ownership, however, the car was moved by the next day.
  
• David Chadwick – 710 Park Ave was sent violation letter 93.19 and 93.20 Vehicles. He has until August 23^rd to reply.
  
• Carver County Auditor owner of vacant lot on Brad Street will be sent violation letter for Elimination of Weeds and Grass.
  
• Darrell Grams – 410 Sophia – will be sent a violation letter listing several ordinance violations.
  

MCFOA Clerks Conference – July 11 – 15, 2011

• Deputy Clerk Block gave a brief overview of the MCFOA Clerks Conference she had attended in July.
  

 

 

City Clerk/Treasurer Report

 

2010 Census Count – Met Council Population Estimates

• FYI - According to the 2010 Census the City of Hamburg has gained 16 homes since the 2000 Census and lost 25 persons from 2000 to 2010.
  

Liquor Liability Insurance Clause for Hall/Park/Community Center Rentals

• City Clerk Gruenhagen informed Council that he made some changes to the wording in the lease agreements concerning liquor liability insurance. The new wording is based on information received from City Attorney Mac.
  

Utility Rate Study/Five Year Budget Plan

• City Clerk Gruenhagen is starting to work with Abdo, Eick & Meyers on the Utility Rate Study. The main focus will be on the dept portion then the OEM cost will be looked at.
  

Local Government Aid

• Hamburg will receive $58,777 in LGA for 2011 and the same amount is certified for 2012.
  

Property/Casualty Insurance Renewal

• Cities obtaining liability coverage from the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust must decide whether or not to waive the statutory tort liability limits to the extent of the coverage purchased.
  
• Councilmember Barnes moved that the City of Hamburg does not waive the monetary limits on municipal tort liability established by Minnesota Statutes 466.04, Councilmember Mueller seconded and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

Park Rentals – Use of Hot Water

• Council had previously decided that park renters would not have access to the hot water located in a room at the back of the park restroom building. The Lions Club is now requested that park renters be allowed to use the hot water area during their rental.
  
• Council discussed and decided to allow park renters the use of the hot water as long as the Lions Club does not hold the City responsible if anything in that area turns up missing. Maintenance Worker Byerly will place a lock on the door separating the hot water area from the electrical panels located to the side of the building.
  
  • Maintenance Worker Byerly will turn the water heater on before the rental and turn it off after.
    
• Councilmember Trebesch moved to open the hot water up to public use during park rentals, seconded by Councilmember Barnes and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

Can Trailer – Can Proceeds

• The H.I.P. Group will no longer be handling the proceeds from the aluminum cans and would like the City to take over the responsibility. After checking with the city auditors there is no reason why the city could not take over hauling the cans to the recycling center and depositing the proceeds into a park improvement fund.
  
• Councilmember Barnes moved to take over the recycling of the pop cans, seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

Special Meeting for August 23, 2011

• A special meeting will be held on August 23, 2011 to discuss; 2012 Workshop Budget, adopting resolution for accepting MN PFA loan, and discussion on estimates for repairing Kim Avenue. Meeting time was set for 7:00 p.m.
  

Agreement for Ponds (Lagoons)

• The original agreement for mowing the Pond area was located and Council will send out for bids next spring.
  

 

Approve Payment of June/July/August 2011 Claims

 

Approve Payment for Added June 2011 ACH Claim and Transfer

• Harland Clarke Check Orders - $44.89
  
• City of Hamburg Transfer Back to Cities Savings Account - $80,000
  

Approve Payments for Added July 2011 Claims

• Two added ACH payments to PERA and Check Numbers 15139 through 15149.
  

Approve Payment of August 2011 Claims

• Two ACH payments and Check Numbers 15152 through 15186.
  

Councilmember Trebesch moved to approve the June, July, and August 2011 Claims List as stated, seconded by Councilmember Barnes and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.

 

City Council Reports

 

Councilmember Mueller (Sewer & Water) had nothing further to report.

 

Councilmember Lund (Streets)

• Councilmember Lund made a motion to allow garbage and recycling pick up in the through alley's except when the spring weight restrictions are in place, seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

 

Councilmember Trebesch (Buildings)

• Councilmember Trebesch asked who's turn it was to close the ponds.
  
  • Deputy Clerk Block will email Council a copy of the Pond Closing List.
    

 

Councilmember Barnes (Parks) had nothing further to report.

 

Mayor Malz was absent.

 

Councilmember Trebesch moved to adjourn the Hamburg City Council meeting at 9:47 p.m., seconded by Councilmember Barnes and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.

 

 

 

 

        Submitted by:                                    

 

 

        Sue Block

                                                                                                 Deputy Clerk

 

Hamburg City Council Minutes – May 24, 2011

Mayor Malz called the Hamburg City Council meeting to order at 7:21 p.m. Councilmember John Barnes, Councilmember Larry Mueller, Councilmember Steve Trebesch, Councilmember Chris Lund, City Clerk Jeremy Gruenhagen, Deputy Clerk Sue Block, Maintenance Worker Dennis Byerly, and Fire Chief Brad Droege were in attendance.

 

Public Comment

• No one from the public was present.
  

Agenda Review (Added Items) and Adoption

• Added – Closing Memorandum General Obligation Public Utility Revenue Bonds
  
• Updated – 2030 Transportation and Regional Parks Plan
  
• Updated – Project Lists
  
• Added – Fire Department Pay Information
  
• Updated – Claims List
  
• Updated – Delinquency List
  
• Councilmember Mueller moved to approve the agenda with the added items, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

Approve Consent Agenda

• Approve Minutes for May 10, 2011
  
• Sanitary & Storm Sewer Project Update No. 8
  
• Thank you from the Cub Scouts
  
• MN Association of Small Cities Membership Letter
  
• Carver County Sheriff's Report - April
  
• Councilmember Barnes moved to approve all items listed on the Consent Agenda, seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present
  

  
   

Fire Department Report

 

FEMA Grant

• No new information on the Grant.
  

US Fish & Wildlife Grant

• Finishing out this Grant.
  

DNR Grant

• Put in for a new Grant
  

Training Grant

• Applied for and will receive a State Training Grant. The State will pay $200 per person; Hamburg has 30 Fire Fighters on their roster for a total of $6,000. It is unknown if the five Hamburg Rescue Reserve persons will be included in this grant money.
  

Regional Grant (Carver County) for Pagers

• This is continuing. Received the first bill amounting to $150.43 for the E Dispatching, this is for pages coming across the Firefighters cell phones.
  

Firefighters Charity Chili Cook-Off

• The Schell's Brewery (New Ulm, MN) put on a Chili Cook-Off for area fire departments to participate in. Hamburg's Fire Department did not do as well as they had hoped however everyone did have a good time.
  

 

 

Ready Watt Electric – Civil Defense Siren Maintenance Program

• Ready Watt Electric sent in for Councils review a three year contract for preventive maintenance service on the civil defense siren. The cost for the three year maintenance program would be $486 per year.
  
• No discussion or decision from Council on whether or not to consider signing the contract.
  

Hydrants

• The new hydrants that were installed are higher than the old hydrants. Fire Chief Droege asked if the pipe showing under the hydrants could be painted red so their appearance would look better. One exception would be the fire hydrant by Brad Street and Robert Ave. The hydrant should have a riser installed.
  
  • Council discussed and decided to have Councilmember Mueller order a riser from MN Pipe (Farmington, MN) and Wm. Mueller and Sons will pick it up.
    
• Councilmember Trebesch moved to have Councilmember Larry Mueller order an extension from MN Pipe, Farmington, MN with Wm. Mueller and Sons picking the Hydrant Extension, seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

Fire Department Pay Information

• Fire Chief Droege briefly commented on the updated Fire Department Pay Information handout and asked Council to look it over.
  

 

Sanitary Sewer & Storm Sewer Improvements Project

 

Storm Water Utility Ordinance (Ordinance Number 141)

• Council will need to decide on the amount they want to set for the Storm Water Utility Fee at the next Council meeting on June 14^th. Council will also have to decide if the Storm Water Utility Fee should fund the entire project and/or look at taxes.
  
• City Clerk Gruenhagen will work with Greg Kimman (S.E.H.) and City Attorney Mac Willemssen on the correct wording for Ordinance Number 141.
  

North Ditch Clean Out

• Council discussed cleaning out the North Ditch and decided not to have it done at this time, maybe at a latter date.
  

Private Property Service Lines (Illegal Connections/Replacement)

• Four residents have replaced their connections with approximately 20 left to complete.
  
• Council discussed and decided to have City Clerk Gruenhagen send out letters, before June 1st, to residents informing them that a permit must be pulled before replacement work is started. Council also decided not to charge a permit fee.
  

Update on Construction Meeting held May 24, 2011

• Hopefully the curb and gutter will be installed Thursday or Friday and the streets paved the following week.
  
• Service lines will be televised again to make sure all service connections are holding, not leaking, and on grade.
  
• During the meeting it was discussed to have the contractors start cleaning up the areas that were worked on.
  
• The garbage on Donald Ave was not picked up because the road was blocked. Chard will be working with Waste Management on having them pick up the garbage or Chard will have to pick it up. Either way Chard will be paying the bill.
  
• The digging for the Pond has been delayed again for about two weeks due to the rainy weather.
  
• The construction company is looking at eliminating the curb radiuses going into Brian Cummiskey's driveway. This would save the city some money and there is no need for them because a road will not be going through that area.
  
  • Council decided that if Mr. Cummiskey is ok with eliminating the radiuses then the City would prefer that they are not put in.
    
• The Bond closing will be June 2, 2011. Chard has sent in the first payment installment for $304,858.92. This payment is on the claims list to be approved tonight. To cover the payment before the bonds are received on June 2^nd $80,000 will need to be moved from savings to checking. Once the bond money is received the money will be moved back into savings. The City auditors have no problem with these transactions.
  
  • Council discussed and decided to ok the transfers so Chard will get paid this month. A motion to approve the transfers will be made during the approval of the claims list.
    

 

Old City Business (Memo)

 

Handicap Bathroom for Community Hall – Update

• Framing and the dry wall are completed.
  
• Completion date is set for June 2, 2011.
  
• Two unisex handicap signs will be ordered to place on the bathroom door and side wall.
  

Park Sign

• Council was asked if they would like the lettering on the Community Park sign to be in all capital letters or upper and lower casing.
  
• Council discussed and decided to go with the upper and lower case lettering.
  
• City Clerk Gruenhagen will place the order.
  

City Council Meeting Dates for June, July, and August

• Council discussed and decided to change the monthly City Council meetings from twice a month to once a month for the summer months of June, July, and August. City Clerk Gruenhagen would have the discretion to call another Council meeting if needed.
  
• Councilmember Barnes moved to hold one meeting per month for June, July, and August to be held on the fourth Tuesday of the month. Motion died due to a lack of a second.
  
• Councilmember Mueller moved to hold one meeting per month for June, July, and August to be held on the second Tuesday of each month, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  
• The Councils agenda will be delivered on Thursday instead of Friday.
  

Sidewalk Replacements – Estimates from Chard Tiling & Excavating and Hanson Vasek Construction

• Estimate for sidewalk replacement on west side of the Community Center.
  
  • Chard - $2,241.50
    
  • Hanson & Vasek - $2,499.00
    
• Estimate for the area around the Hamburg Fire Department sign and school plaque insert.
  
  • Chard - $1,328.60
    
  • Hanson & Vasek - $1,112.00
    
• Combined total cost for sidewalk repair by the Community Center.
  
  • Chard - $3,570.10
    
  • Hanson & Vasek - $3,611.00
    
• Estimate for sidewalk repair along Henrietta Avenue from the alley to Railroad Street.
  
  • Chard - $5,350
    
  • Hanson & Vasek - $5,864.00
    

 

• Estimate from alley up to Louisa Street.
  
  • Chard - $4,600.00
    
  • Hanson & Vasek - $5,106.00
    
• Estimate for construction of 6'x 20'x 8" concrete Apron.
  
  • Chard - $775
    
  • Hanson & Vasek - $870
    
• Council discussed and decided only to have the east side of the Community Center repaired now and put the other areas on the Wish List.
  
• Councilmember Trebesch moved to have Chard Tiling & Excavating, Inc. complete the Fire Hall sidewalk, 67 feet by 6 feet plus the 3 feet by 6 feet and also the 8 feet by 22 feet by 5 inch area by the city sign, school plaque and bell, seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

Energy Efficient Lights (Rebates) for City Buildings

• Council discussed the estimates from Robb's Electric and Norwood Electric Inc. for replacing the current light fixtures to the new energy efficient lights in the Hall, Community Center, and Fire Department bay area.
  
• Council discussed and decided to place this project on the Wish List.
  

Reclaim & Pave Kim Avenue

• Council discussed the estimates from Chard Tiling & Excavating, Inc. and Wm. Mueller & Sons to Reclaim & Pave Kim Avenue.
  
• Council decided that this repair is a city obligation and have City Clerk Gruenhagen ask Shelly Eldridge (Ehlers Financial Advisor) if any left over Enterprise Funds could be used to pay for this project.
  

RFP for Contracted Garbage Services for Residential/Commercial

• The RFP notice for garbage services has been listed in the paper and letters were sent out to Elite Waste Disposal (Jordan, MN), Waste Management, Franck's Sanitation, Randy's Sanitation, and Gaylord.
  
• Hamburg's garbage service contract with Waste Management expires July 31, 2011.
  

 

Dennis' Report (Public Works & Utilities)

 

Garage Doors

• Garage doors have been ordered and safety sensors will be added.
  

G&K Contract for Cleaning Supplies

• Maintenance Worker Byerly had no further information on renewing the contract with G&K.
  
• Council discussed only renewing the contract for one (1) year not the seven (7) years that are already set in the contract. Maintenance Worker Byerly commented that he will check with the G&K driver if the company would be willing to work with the city on renewing the contract for only one (1) year.
  

Flush Hydrants

• Hydrants will be flushed after the construction project is completed.
  

Replacement of Shed

• The shed located at 624 Kim Avenue (Glenn Mueller's) has been moved back however it still needs to be leveled.
  

City Alleys (Add Rock/Shape Up)

• One alley is left to be shaped up the rest of the alleys are done.
  

City Office Floor Repairs

• Stripping and waxing the Community Center floors is on hold until this fall.
  

Water Wells Usage/Water Consumption Reports for 2010/2011

• Rural Water will be coming back this fall to check more areas for possible water leaks.
  
• There have been no major changes in the usage versus consumption. For the year it is a 23.35% difference which comes out to losing seven (7) gallons of water per minute.
  
  • Council discussed the possibility that the older water meters may not be reading correctly.
    

Sewer Reports

• Mayor Malz requested Maintenance Worker Byerly bring the sewer reports up to the council meeting tonight so he can sign them. The reports should have been mailed last Friday.
  

 

Deputy Clerk Report

 

Delinquent Utility Bills

• 350 Louisa Street (Foreclosed Property) is now owned by R.V, Holdings. This is a world wide holding company and their policy is not to pay any delinquent bills until the property is sold. A delinquent bill for $142.45 was sent however to the management company for R.V. Holdings.
  
• Jon Reed (416 Jacob St) – Paid $330 on May 16, 2011, will try and pay more before the end of the month.
  
• 419 Railroad (Nick Nordin) - There was a Sheriff's sale on 01-07-11 and the property is now owned by Wells Fargo.
  

Nuisance Letter

• 960 Park Ave (Vacant Home) is still owned by Kim Barstad. A nuisance letter will be sent to have her mow the lawn.
  
• There are two abandoned cars parked on the north side of the Car Wash, Ken Bauer's property. According to the Sherriff's department one of the cars has not been registered since 1999. The other car is listed to a person from Glencoe, MN. A nuisance letter will be sent to Ken Bauer to have the vehicles removed.
  

 

City Clerk/Treasurer Report

 

Xcel Energy Saver's Switch

• Council discussed signing up for Xcel's Energy Saver's Switch Program that could possible save the city on its summer electricity bills. Council decided to sign up for the program.
  

Water Tower Replacement

• Council discussed and decided to add replacing the cities water tower to the Wish List. The current water tower was installed in 1941.
  

Utility Rate Study/Five Year Budget Plan

• Estimates were received from Ehlers and Abdo, Eick & Myers.
  
  • Ehlers estimated total cost - $9,500.
    
    • $3,000 – Water Utility
      
    • $3,000 – Sewer Utility
      
    • $3,500 – Storm Water Utility
      
  • Abdo, Eick & Meyers – $3,000 for a five year study and for an additional $5,000 they would incorporate all city activities into the plan.
    
• PFA requires a Utility Rate Study be done for the Storm Sewer PFA funding.
  
• City Clerk Gruenhagen suggested going with Abdo, Eick & Meyers for one they are cheaper and two see what they would charge for the Storm Sewer debt to project it out until the debt is paid not just the Five Year Study.
  
• Council discussed and will make a decision at the next Council meeting on June 14, 2011.
  

Employee Job Descriptions

• A committee was set up to review the employee job descriptions and report back to the other Council members at the June 14^th meeting with any changes, additions, or deletions.
  
  • Committee members are Councilmember Chris Lund, Councilmember Steve Trebesch, and City Clerk Jeremy Gruenhagen.
    

Project List

• #10 – Ask Xcel Energy if there would be a reduction in billing if the City used its generator during peak electrical usage.
  
  • Council discussed and decided that as long as the City is signing up for the Energy Saver's Switch program this could be taken off the list. No need to pursue any further.
    

Met Council – 2030 Transportation Plan and Park Plan

• Ann Perry (City Planner) reviewed Met Council's 2030 Comprehensive Plan and did not see any inconsistencies between Met Councils plan and the City of Hamburg's 2030 Plan. Therefore, the City of Hamburg does not need to propose any amendments to their existing Comprehensive Plan.
  

 

Approve Payment of May 2011 Claims

 

Approve Payment of May 2011 Claims

• Added – Payment to Jerome Bergman for cleaning out the north ditch in the amount of $600 check number 15059.
  
• City Clerk Gruenhagen requested Councils approval to transfer $80,000 from the Cities saving account to checking account. This transfer would cover the payment to Chard Tiling and Excavating in the amount of $304,858.92, check number 15041, until receipt of the Bond proceeds are received on June 2, 2011. Once the Bond proceeds are received then the $80,000 would be transferred back to savings.
  
• Councilmember Trebesch moved to approve transfer of $80,000 from the Cities saving account to the General Fund. Then when the City receives the Bond proceeds the $80,000 will be transferred back to the Cities saving account, seconded by Councilmember Barnes and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  
• Councilmember Mueller moved to approve the four ACH payments and check number 15012 through check number 15059, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

 

City Council Reports

 

Councilmember Mueller (Sewer & Water)

• Councilmember Mueller commented that he wants Maintenance Worker Byerly to fix the curb stops that are not working especially the one at 419 Railroad Street.
  
• Councilmember Mueller will be unable to attend the June 2^nd ACCEL meeting and asked if any other council member would be interested in attending.
  
  • Councilmember Chris Lund agreed to attend.
    
• Councilmember Mueller asked if anyone remembers who the farmer was that contracted with the City of Hamburg to bail the grass out at the Lagoons.
  
  • City Clerk Gruenhagen will check into this and get back to Council.
    

Councilmember Lund (Streets)

• A number of residents have complained to him about the flooding at the corner of Park Ave and Brad. If this happens again he will advise the residents to contact the construction company (Chard) directly with their complaints.
  

Councilmember Trebesch (Buildings)

• Councilmember Trebesch volunteered to close the pond gate on Saturday, June 18^th.
  

Councilmember Barnes (Parks) – Had nothing further to report.

Mayor Malz – Had nothing further to report

 

Councilmember Mueller moved to adjourn the Hamburg City Council meeting at 9:10 p.m., seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present

 

 

 

 

 

Submitted by:                                    

 

 

Sue Block

                                                                                         Deputy Clerk