Hamburg City Council Minutes – January 11, 2011

Mayor Malz called the Hamburg City Council meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Councilmember John Barnes, Councilmember Larry Mueller, Councilmember Steve Trebesch, Councilmember Chris Lund, City Clerk Jeremy Gruenhagen, Deputy Clerk Sue Block, and Fire Chief Brad Droege were in attendance. Others in attendance were Joel Franck (605 Robert Ave), Richard Odoms (150 Jacob St), and Jennifer Baker (member of the Hamburg Fire Department). Maintenance Worker Dennis Byerly was absent.

 

Agenda Review (Added Items) and Adoption

• Added – Hamburg Lions Club request for a Lawful Gambling Permit for April 15, 2011.
  
• Added - Updated December & January Claims Lists
  
• Added – Updated Water Usage/Consumption Report for 2010
  
• Added – City Fee Schedule
  
• Added – Notice from Community ED about their Summer Park & Recreation programs.
  
• Added – Carver County notice of a Public Hearing for amending County code and rezoning map.
  
• Added – Updated Delinquency List.
  
• Added – Councilmember Mueller would like to discuss adding two more handicap parking spaces in front of the Hamburg Community Hall.
  
• Councilmember Mueller moved to adopt the agenda with the added items, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

 

Designate Official Depository (Bank) and Official Newspaper

• Councilmember Muller moved to designate the State Bank of Hamburg as the official depository and the Norwood/Young America Times as the official city newspaper, Councilmember Trebesch seconded and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

 

Appoint Assistant (Acting) Mayor

• Councilmember Larry Mueller agreed to serve as Hamburg's Assistant (Acting) Mayor.
  
• Councilmember Trebesch moved to have Councilmember Larry Mueller act as the Assistant (Acting) Mayer, seconded by Councilmember Barnes and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

 

Designate Departments for City Council Members

• Councilmember Mueller will retain the Sewer & Water Departments.
  
• Councilmember Lund will take over the Street(s) Department.
  
• Councilmember Trebesch will retain the Buildings Department.
  
• Councilmember Barnes will retain the Park's Department.
  

 

Set City Council Meeting Start Time for 2011

• Council discussed and agreed to keep the City Council start time at 7:00 p.m.
  

 

Approve Minutes for December 14, 2011.

• Mayor Malz pointed out three (3) errors in the minutes to be corrected:
  
  • Change Courtney Lund's address from 614 Kim Ave to Courtney Lund (612 Kim Avenue).
    
  • Change the IRS 2011 mileage rate from .51 cents per gallon to .51 cents per mile
    
  • Change LGA to LMC (Chris Lund should register for training with the LMC).
    
• Councilmember Barnes moved to adopt the December 14, 2011 City Council Minutes with the three (3) changes, seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

Old City Business

• Item #3 – Electrical Wiring (ToTheHome Internet) at the Water Tower.
  
  • City Clerk Gruenhagen will follow up with Shawn Sprengeler (ToTheHome Internet) as to when he will have the electrical wiring at the cities water tower corrected.
    
• Item #7 – Rearrange and clean Shop area.
  
  • This is being worked on by Mayor Malz and a resident with community service.
    

 

Fire Department Report

 

2010 FEMA Grant

• No new information.
  

DNR Grant

• Received $425 back from the DNR Grant – can be removed from agenda.
  

FEMA Grant for New Paging System

• Carver County received the Grant for the new paging system. The Hamburg Fire Department will receive 35 new pagers (each pager costs $450) at no cost to the City and they should be received in about one year.
  

Amend Ordinance Number 126

• Council members and Fire Chief Droege discussed changing Ordinance #126 to allow the City to bill and collect fees for Emergency Protection Fire Services to individuals and businesses that have an address within the City Fire Department's area of services for accident service calls.
  
  • Further discussion of the possible change was tabled to the next City Council Meeting on January 25, 2011.
    
• Public Meeting to discuss Ordinance Number 126A – Amending Ordinance Number 126.
  
  • Councilmember Mueller moved to hold a Public Meeting on February 8, 2011 at 6:45 p.m. to discuss with the public Ordinance #126A, amending Section Five, D-H of Ordinance Number 126, seconded by Councilmember Barnes and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
    

NIMS 100/200/700 Training

• Council members and Maintenance Worker Byerly must have NIMS 100, 200, and 700 training in order to receive funding from FEMA. For convenience the courses can now be taken online.
  

Fire Department Members Retirements

• Between March 2011 and June 2011 three Hamburg Fire Department members will be retiring.
  

Deployment of Fire Department Firefighter Baker

• Firefighter Jennifer Baker will be deployed to Afghanistan in three to four weeks. Council wished her the best and thanked her for her patriotism in defending our Country.
  

2010 Donation Summary – Resolution Number 2011-01

• The City of Hamburg received the following donations in 2010;
  
  • Hamburg Fire Dept. Relief Assoc. (Headsets) - $852.86
    
  • Donald Bartholomew (FD Equipment) - $200.00
    
  • H.I.P. (National Night Out Expenses) - $129.50
    
  • Xcel Energy (FD Equipment) - $200.00
    
  • Hamburg Fire Dept. Relief Assoc. (Training/Equipment) - $2,200.00
    
  • Hamburg Fire Dept. Relief Assoc. (2001 HD Rescue Truck Fund) - $3,000.00
    
• Councilmember Barnes moved to adopt Resolution Number 2011-01 accepting donations given to the City of Hamburg in 2010, Councilmember Mueller seconded and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

HFD Relief Association 2010 Donation Summary

• Council was given a sheet listing the Hamburg Fire Department Relief Association's donations for 2010. Donations to various organizations and funds totaled $12,577.86. Percentage of total donations to the City of Hamburg was 60.04% which amounted to $7,552.86.
  

Required Municipal Contribution

• The required Cities contribution to the Hamburg Fire Department Relief Association Retirement Fund for 2011 will be $46,712.
  

HFD Relief Association Request for Lawful Charitable Gambling within the City of Hamburg

• The Hamburg Relief Association requested approval of Resolution Number 2011-02 approving lawful charitable gambling at Parkside Tavern located at 490 Henrietta Ave., Hamburg, MN, 55339.
  
  • Councilmember Mueller moved to approve Resolution Number 2011-02 allowing the Hamburg Relief Association to conduct lawful charitable gambling at Parkside Tavern located at 490 Henrietta Ave., Hamburg, MN, 55339, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
    
• The Hamburg Relief Association requested approval of Resolution Number 2011-03 approving off-site lawful charitable gambling at the Hamburg Community Hall on February 5, 2011.
  
  • Councilmember Mueller moved to approve Resolution Number 2011-03 allowing the Hamburg Fire Department Relief Association to conduct off-site lawful charitable gambling at the Hamburg Community Hall located at 351 Henrietta Ave., Hamburg, MN, 55339 on February 5, 2011, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
    

Portable Sound System (Quote from EPA Audio Visual)

• Council received an e-mail quotation from EPA Audio Visual for a Portable Sound System ($945), two Speaker Stands, two Microphone Stands, one Carry Bag (5 items totaling $129), and one Wireless Hand Held Microphone System ($439) totaling $1,513. A motion was needed to approve using the Cable Franchise Fee Fund for payment. The Norwood/Young America City Council has approved the e-mail quotation during their council meeting last night (Monday, January 10, 2011)
  
• Councilmember Trebesch moved to use the Cable Franchise Fee Fund to purchase the Portable Sound System, Speaker and Microphone Stands, Carry Bag, and Wireless Hand Microphone in the amount of $1,513 (plus tax), seconded by Councilmember Barnes and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

Hamburg Fire Department Officers – Selection vs. Election

• Keep on agenda for future discussion.
  

Hamburg Fire Department Rescue 12 (Ambulance)

• The water pump went out on the Rescue 12 and is at Bob's Repair being fixed and should be ready tomorrow.
  

Fire Hydrants

• Fire Chief Droege thanked Maintenance Worker Byerly for keeping the fire hydrants cleared of snow.
  

Old International 1981 HD Rescue Truck

• Fire Chief Droege asked for Councils approval to sell the old rescue truck if a reasonable offer is made by McLeod County Sheriff's Department. They are looking at the truck to be used for their Swat Team.
  
• Council discussed and agreed to sell the old rescue truck to anyone who makes a reasonable offer with a minimum purchase price of $4,500.
  
• Councilmember Trebesch moved to sell the old rescue truck if any reasonable offer is made, seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

Hamburg Fire Department Tanker

• The FD Tanker is in having the Chevrons and flashers put on and should be ready to pick up tomorrow.
  

 

Hamburg Lions Club – Lawful Gambling Permit

• Joel Franck (605 Robert Ave) representing the Hamburg Lions Club requested Council to approve a Lawful Charitable Gambling permit for their Easter Ham Bingo on April 15, 2011.
  
• Councilmember Mueller moved to grant the Hamburg Lions Club a Charitable Gambling permit for their Easter Ham Bingo to be held on April 15, 2011, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

 

Dennis' Report (Public Works & Utilities)

(Maintenance Worker Byerly was absent City Clerk Gruenhagen presented the report.)

 

Federal Traffic Sign Standard Changes

• The City of Hamburg will have to implement a method to maintain minimum levels of retro-reflectivity by January 2012. Replace regulatory, warning and ground-mounted guide signs by January 2015, and replace overhead guide signs and street name signs by January 2018.
  
  • As signs are improved to meet these requirements the lettering on the signs is to be in upper and lower casing for easier reading.
    
  • If communities do not approve the MUTCD manual by January 2012 they could face tort liability in lawsuits or potential loss of federal-aid funds.
    

Community Hall Ramp

• Everything is ordered and ready to go just waiting for warmer weather.
  

Snow Packed Community Center Roof and Hall Roof

• Council discussed and decided to watch the heavy layer of snow on the Community Center roof. It is too packed down to try and remove it at this point. When it starts to slide off the building removing the snow pack will be discussed again.
  

Shut Off Key for 420 Maria Avenue

• The water turn off key that was made to turn off the water at 420 Maria Avenue does not work. Council discussed and decided to dig up and redo the curb stop next spring.
  

Water Wells Usage/Water Consumption for 2010

• The city is unable to account for 27.51% of the water usage in 2010. Jeff Dale from MN Rural Water was asked to come out this spring to do some leak detection.
  

MNWARN

• By joining MNWARN the City would have immediate access to emergency help and equipment.
  
• Council will discuss joining MNWARN at the next Council meeting scheduled for January 25, 2011.
  

Call Out Pay (Overtime) for January 17, 2011

• Maintenance Worker Byerly is scheduled to clean the Hamburg Hall on January 17^th which is a holiday. Any work done on a Holiday is considered overtime pay.
  
  • Council discussed and decided to have Maintenance Worker Byerly stay within the two (2) hour slotted time frame for doing rounds on a Holiday.
    

Lodging Reimbursement

• Council discussed and decided to change the cities Employee Handbook lodging reimbursement policy to read: Lodging – The amount reimbursable for a single attendee of a conference or meeting shall be the least expensive single room rate available at the location of the approved conference.
  

 

• Councilmember Barnes moved to change the Hamburg City Employee Handbook policy on lodging reimbursement to read: The amount reimbursable for a single attendee of a conference or meeting shall be the least expensive single room rate available at the location of the approved conference., Councilmember Mueller seconded and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

Hamburg Community Hall Handicap Parking

• Councilmember Mueller suggested adding a couple of handicap parking spaces in front of the Hamburg Community Hall.
  
  • Council briefly discussed and decided to table further discussion on adding handicap parking at the Hall until the next City Council Meeting on January 25, 2011.
    

Pop Canisters in Hall Basement

• Council discussed moving the pop canisters from the Hall basement to upstairs by the bar area.
  
  • Councilmember Barnes and Mayor Malz will take a look at the area and see if it would be possible to move the canisters upstairs in the Hall.
    

 

Deputy Clerk Report

 

Delinquent Utility Bills

• Diana Payne (350 Louisa Street) – Delinquent amount sent to Re/Max Advisors West for payment.
  
• Chris Tordsen (618 Kim Ave) – Received full payment.
  
• Wm. Minnihan (421 Henrietta Ave) - Delinquent letter sent – Scheduled shut-off for January 18^th.
  
• Emily Siebold (625 Kim Ave) - Delinquent letter sent – Scheduled shut-off for January 18^th.
  
• Betty Griffin (420 Maria Ave) – Unable to turn water off curb stop. Working with owners to have renter set up a payment plan.
  
• David Chadwick (710 Park Ave) - Delinquent letter sent – Scheduled shut-off for January 18^th.
  
• Nick Nordin (419 Railroad St) – Home Foreclosure – Contact Freddie Mac.
  
• Darrell Grams (410 Sophia Ave) - Delinquent letter sent - Scheduled shut-off for January 24^th.
  
• Sergio Salcedo (621 Donald Ave) - Delinquent letter sent – Scheduled shut-off for January 18^th.
  

 

City Clerk/Treasurer Report

 

City Fee Schedule for 2011 – Adoption of Ordinance Number 140

• Changes to the City Fee Schedule
  
  • Changed Councilmember Brian Cummiskey to Councilmember Chris Lund.
    
  • Increased the 2010 Sanitary Sewer (Base Fee) from $12.50 per month to $12.75 per month for 2011.
    
  • Increased the 2010 Sanitary Sewer Metered (Per Thousand Gallons) from $5.20 per month to $5.45 per month for 2011.
    
  • Changed Mileage reimbursement, using the 2011 IRS Rate, from $0.50 per mile to $0.51 per mile.
    
• Councilmember Barnes moved to adopt the 2011 Hamburg City Fee Schedule with the four (4) changes, Councilmember Mueller seconded and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

I/I Abatement Program (Sanitary Sewer/Storm Water Improvements)

• Brian and Maggie Cummiskey will be signing their easement agreement towards the end of this month.
  
• David Klugherz (613 David Avenue) has not replied to the city, still waiting for his signature on his temporary easement.
  
• At the next Council meeting on January 25^th Brian and Maggie Cummiskey will be asked if the motion to obtain 3.8 acres of their land be changed to 3.7 acres. Also needed is a copy of Brian Cummiskey's mortgage release.
  
  • The Township has verbally agreed to approve the annexation of the 3.7 acres purchased property into the City of Hamburg plus they would like the rest of the Cummiskey's property annexed into the City as well. Waiting for written agreement.
    
• Doug Parrott (S.E.H.) will be working on outlining the next steps of the project.
  
• A public meeting will have to be set up to discuss financial options of how to fund the project with the cities residents. Elhers will also attend the public meeting.
  

Contract Agreement for Building Inspections

• Hamburg's contract with MNSPECT automatically renews annually unless Council decides to change to another company then a 90 day notice prior to the contracts end date would have to be given MNSPECT. The Council decided there was no reason to change inspectors at this time.
  

Contract Agreement for Garbage Service

• The City of Hamburg's contract with Waste Management is ending in August 2011. If Council wants to go out for bids then a 90 day notice (April/May 2011) would have to be sent to Waste Management.
  

2010 Property/Casualty Dividend

• The City of Hamburg received a 2010 dividend payment (Insurance Refund) from the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust, Property/Casualty Premium, in the amount of $4,166.
  

2010 Hours Worked Worksheet

• Members of Council received a break out sheet of City Clerk Gruenhagen, Deputy Clerk Block, and Maintenance Worker Byerly's 2010 hours.
  

City Audit

• The week of February 14, 2011 Abdo, Eick & Meyers will be conducting the Cities 2010 financial audit.
  

Time Off Request for City Clerk Gruenhagen

• Councilmember Mueller moved to grant City Clerk Gruenhagen time off starting at 4:00 p.m. on January 13, 20, 27, and February 1, 3, 2011, Councilmember Trebesch seconded and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

 

City Council Reports

 

Councilmember Mueller (Sewer & Water)

• Councilmember Mueller questioned if the Townships donate to the Community Ed program. A lot of the kids participating in the programs are from the Townships.
  
  • City Clerk Gruenhagen will check into this and report back to Council.
    
• Councilmember Mueller asked the other members of Council if it would be OK to have a person he has been talking to take charge of completing the construction of the Hall handicap bathroom. This person would not be doing the actual carpentry but would get the quotes and oversee the project.
  
  • Council discussed and decided to have Councilmember Mueller contact this person in order to get the project completed.
    

 

Councilmember Lund had nothing further to report.

 

Councilmember Trebesch (Buildings)

• Councilmember Trebesch commented that the street light across from the Hall is going on and off.
  
  • City Clerk Gruenhagen replied that this outage has already been turned into Xcel.
    

 

Councilmember Barnes (Parks)

• Councilmember Barnes requested pre-payment of $77.26 for his hotel room during the 2011 Leadership Conference for Newly Elected Officials in Mankato on January 28 & 29, 2011.
  
  • Other members of Council had no objections and the payment of $77.26 will be added to the Claims List.
    

 

Mayor Malz

• Mayor Malz met with the new Sheriff Olson to inquire about the reasoning behind switching Deputy Walgrave to our area and Officer Jim Shelhamer to Deputy Walgrave's area.
  
  • According to Sheriff Olson the switch will take place and will last one year.
    
  • Council discussed and agreed that a change would be good but had no objections to the service they received from Officer Shelhamer.
    

 

Approve Claims List for December 2010 & January 2011

 

Claims List for December 2010

• Councilmember Mueller moved to approve the December Claims List with the two (2) added ACH payments and check number 14799 through 14811 including the four transfers, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

 

Claims List for January 2011

• Councilmember Mueller moved to approve the 2011 January Claims List with the four (4) ACH payments and check number 14812 through 14841 and the addition of claim #14842 in the amount of $77.26 for pre-payment of the hotel room for Councilmember Barnes, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

 

Councilmember Barnes moved to adjourn the Hamburg City Council meeting at 8:45 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 – November 23, 2010

Mayor Malz called the Hamburg City Council meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Councilmember Steve Trebesch, Councilmember John Barnes, Councilmember Larry Mueller, Councilmember Brian Cummiskey, Maintenance Worker Dennis Byerly, City Clerk Jeremy Gruenhagen, Deputy Clerk Sue Block, and Fire Chief Brad Droege were in attendance. Bob Gruenhagen (Carver County Pheasants Forever), Kipp Trebesch Jr and Kipp Trebesch (K & K Services, LLC) were also in attendance.

 

Miscellaneous Business (Public Comments)

• Bob Gruenhagen representing the Carver County Pheasants Forever requested a MN Lawful Gambling Permit for their annual banquet on January 22, 2011.
  
• Councilmember Mueller moved to grant the Carver County Pheasants Forever a MN Lawful Gambling Permit for their banquet on January 22, 2011, seconded by Councilmember Barnes and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

 

Agenda Review (Added Items) and Adoption

• Added – Updated November Claims List
  
• Added – Hamburg Lions request for four (4) Temporary On-Sale Liquor Licenses.
  
  • Fireman's Dance, Pheasants Forever, Green Isle Conservation, and Hamburg Fish Fry.
    
• Added – Updated Delinquency Report
  
• Added – Email from Doug Parrott (City Engineer)
  
• Councilmember Mueller moved to adopt the agenda with the four (4) added items, seconded by Councilmember Barnes and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

 

Old City Business

• Item #3 – Projector, Projector Screen & Portable Sound System.
  
  • Information will be updated during the City Clerk Report.
    
• Item #4 – Electrical Wiring (ToTheHome Internet) at the Water Tower.
  
  • Maintenance Worker Byerly has received the information to install the electrical wiring according to code. City Clerk Gruenhagen will talk with Maintenance Worker Byerly tomorrow on how the wiring should be corrected.
    
• Item #5 – Install new playground equipment at the Hall Park.
  
  • Updated information will be given during Councilmember Barnes Report.
    
• Item #6 – Cost to replace City Office and Fire Department Office flooring.
  
  • Mayor Malz will follow up with Adam Glander on this item.
    
  • Council commented again about trying to save the existing City Office flooring by removing the old wax and re-waxing the floor. Council agreed this should be tried before purchasing and installing new flooring.
    
• Item #9 – Mayor Malz to check if the Shop area could be rearranged to move the FD apparatus away from in front of the electrical box.
  
  • Rearranging is in progress.
    

 

Approve Minutes for October 26, 2010 and November 9, 2010

• Councilmember Mueller moved to approve the October 26, 2010 and November 9, 2010 City Council Meeting Minutes, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

 

 

 

Fire Department Report

 

2010 FEMA Grant

• Information for the 2010 FEMA Grant should be received early in December.
  

US Fish & Wildlife Grant

• All items that were ordered should have been received. To make sure all items ordered were received a recheck will be done tomorrow.
  

DNR Grant

• All paperwork has been sent in to receive reimbursement for items purchased.
  

New Paging System

• More information will be available in January after the Chiefs Meeting.
  

Selection vs. Election – Hamburg Fire Department Officers

• Keep on agenda.
  

Park Equipment Installation

• Roger Siewert (618 David Avenue) volunteered to be in charge of lining up help to install the new playground equipment.
  
• Wm. Mueller & Sons will dig out the area where the equipment will be placed.
  
• The Hamburg Sportsman's Club will pay for placing cement pads under the picnic tables.
  

Name the Park

• Fire Chief Droege suggested naming the park, Community Park. Council discussed and no decision was made at this time.
  

 

Dennis' Report (Public Works & Utilities)

 

Community Hall Ramp Canopy Repairs (#29 on Project List)

• Council had previously requested heat tape to be placed on the Canopy roof however Kip Trebesch and Kip Trebesch Jr. informed Council that doing this is against the MN electrical code. The Trebesch's suggested installing snow stoppers on the round Hall roof instead.
  
  • Council discussed and decided against the heat tape and the snow stoppers.
    
• Kip Trebesch asked Council if they would prefer the West Door Canopy Roof be white or would Council want the West Door Canopy Roof green to match the ramp roof.
  
  • Council discussed and decided that as long as the roof for the West Door Canopy does not have to be replaced to keep the roof as is (white).
    
• Kip and Kip Trebesch Jr. should be ready to start working on the Canopy in about a week.
  
• The Trebesch's will be provided with an insurance letter requesting them to list how much time it took them to complete each project listed as a bullet point on the scope of work.
  

Project List

• Item #12 – Mock OSHA Inspection
  
  • All items listed to fix are completed except ToTheHome Internet wiring at the cities water tower.
    
    • ToTheHome will be notified of the changes needed to meet electrical code and estimated cost. City Clerk Gruenhagen will set up a time with Shawn Sprengeler to discuss code, price, and to set up a time for repairs. An Electrical Permit will also have to be obtained.
      
• Item #31 – Locate shut off valve at 420 Maria Avenue.
  
  • Maintenance Worker Byerly informed Council that the shut off key he made for the shut off valve does not work. Maintenance Worker Byerly was instructed to install a new curb stop and locate where the water pipe comes from.
    
• Item #1 – Purchase a Spray Gun for painting.
  
  • Maintenance Worker Byerly commented to Council that he was going to Menards personally tomorrow night (Wednesday) or Friday and will pick up the Spray Gun on his own time.
    
    • City Clerk Gruenhagen suggested calling Menards and having it delivered by the service rep.
      
    • Council also suggested picking up a Snow Rake and an Inline GFI Outlet at the same time.
      
• Item #11 – Use Liquid ice remover on new cemented Shop driveway for two years.
  
  • Maintenance Worker Byerly informed Council that he was informed by sales personnel not to use liquid ice on new cement for the first year. Council suggested using regular sand on the driveway this year.
    
• Item #26 – Fix leaning Electrical Panel by Grinder Station
  
  • Project has not been started, may have to wait until spring.
    
  • Council requested to have Chuck (Robb's Electric) put up square tubing by Grinder Station.
    

Ag-Lime

• Council requested Maintenance Worker Byerly to check into how much it would cost to put Ag-Lime on the ball fields.
  

Pop Can Trailer

• Maintenance Worker Byerly commented that he will take the pop cans in if no one else takes them in by this Friday.
  

Water Usage For 2010

• Water usage versus billed is up from last month, 28% of water used is not accounted (metered) for.
  
• Council discussed replacing the old water meters in town with radio read meters or with meters that can be changed over to radio read.
  
  • Council asked Maintenance Worker Byerly to get cost estimates from different companies as to what it would cost to replace current meters with radio read meters and the cost of purchasing meters with the option of changing them to radio readers.
    

Sentence To Serve

• Council ok'd Maintenance Worker Byerly request to call Sentence To Serve to help paint the Hall.
  

2011 Budget Items – Maintenance Items

• Ag-lime for baseball fields.
  
• Rock for alleys, ponds, and under can trailer.
  
• A set of forks for the Bobcat. (This is already on the Wish List.)
  
• New generator for lift station.
  
• Pressure Washer – (Gas) – Budget $300 to $500
  

MN Warn

• Council asked Maintenance Worker Byerly to call MN Warn and ask how to become a member.
  

Keys For Shop Door – (Seven)

• Council discussed who has a keys to the new shop door. Seven were made but not all are accounted for.
  
  • Councilmember Mueller, Councilmember Trebesch, City Clerk Gruenhagen, Maintenance Worker Byerly all have a key, and there is one at the Hall and City Offices. Council will have to ask Councilmember Cummiskey if he has one.
    
• Mayor Malz and Councilmember Barnes do not have a key.
  
• Maintenance Worker Byerly was asked to check at Menards if they can make a copy of a Schlage Lock key.
  

 

Deputy Clerk Report

 

Delinquent Utility Bills

• Three names on Delinquency List
  
  • Nick Nordin (419 Railroad St)
    
  • Diana Payne (350 Louisa St)
    
    • Schlueter Realty was sent delinquent amount for payment.
      
  • Chris Tordsen (618 Kim Ave)
    
    • Sent Premiere Asset Services delinquent amount due for payment.
      

Time-Off Request

• Deputy Clerk Block requested December 20, 21, 22, 1/2 day on the 28th, January 3, 5, and 6^th. December 23^rd, 24^th, and 31^st are Holidays.
  
• Councilmember Trebesch moved to grant Deputy Clerk Block vacation days as requested, seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion carried. Councilmember Barnes abstained.
  

 

City Clerk/Treasurer Report

 

I/I Abatement Program (Sanitary Sewer/Storm Water Improvements)

• David Klugherz (613 David Avenue) was mailed his new Temporary Easement for signage. Mayor Malz also has a copy and will try to talk to Mr. Klugherz.
  
• Easement for 470 Brad Street (Managed by Carver County) is being worked on and should be resolved at the next Carver County Board Meeting.
  
• Pre-Construction pictures will be taken next spring.
  
• Doug Parrott (S.E.H.) sent a memo for Council to read concerning the repair of the roadway when doing the project. In the memo it noted delaying the wear course until the following year in order to allow the road to go through a freeze/thaw cycle.
  
  • Council discussed and decided to leave the decision up to the City/County Engineers.
    

Metropolitan Livable Communities Act 2011-2010 Housing Action Plan

• To be eligible to participate in the Metropolitan Livable Communities Act Local Housing Incentives Account (LCA LHIA) program the City of Hamburg must adopt a resolution electing to participate in the program and adopt a Housing Action Plan.
  
• Councilmember Barnes moved to adopt Resolution 2010-07 allowing City of Hamburg to participate in the 2011-2020 Housing Assistance Plan as required by the Metropolitan Livable Communities Act Councilmember Mueller seconded and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

Proposal from EPA Audio Visual, Inc. (Projector, Projector Screen, Portable Sound System)

• Norwood/Young America City Council approved Hamburg's request to purchase a Projector, Projector Screen, and Portable Sound System. This will be paid out of the JPBCC (Cable) Fund.
  

Mosquito Control Contract – Clarke Environment

• Clarke Environmental Mosquito Management sent Council a contract requesting continued mosquito spraying for the City of Hamburg. The estimated 2011 cost would be $2,340 with the option to extend the program for 2012 and 2013 at rates not to exceed a 5% annual increase. There is a 3% discount if the contract is signed and returned by December 31, 2010 and an additional 3% discount if paid in full by April 15, 2011.
  
  • Council questioned if the dates should read a 6% discount if paid in full by December 31, 2010 or April 15, 2011.
    
    • City Clerk Gruenhagen will get clarification on this.
      
• Councilmember Mueller moved to approve a three year contract with Clarke Environmental Mosquito Management with clarification of the dates, Councilmember Trebesch seconded and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  
  

2010 Budget Items Update

• Previously City Clerk Gruenhagen estimated that the city would have a net income of $9,000 to $10,000. However, after reviewing the budget the city should have a net income of $12,000 at the end of 2010.
  
  • Baring any major repairs until the end of the 2010 year the City would have a cash flow surplus of $50,000 to $62,000.
    
• Council discussed and decided to think about ways to lower the projected cash flow and set up a Special Budget Meeting to discuss the possibilities.
  
  • It was suggested to keep the Tax Levy increase at a 0% increase and to pay off the 2001 Ambulance Certificate of Indebtedness.
    
• Councilmember Barnes moved to hold a Special Budget Work Shop meeting on December 1, 2010 at 6:30 p.m., Councilmember Mueller seconded and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  
  

Truth in Taxation Meeting – Public Meeting for 2011 Budget/Tax Levy

• City Council will be holding a Public (Truth in Taxation) meeting on December 7, 2010 at 7:00 p.m.
  

December 28^th City Council Meeting

• Council discussed canceling the December 28^th Council Meeting. A final decision will be made at the December 14^th Council Meeting.
  

Community Hall

• The microphone that was kept under lock and key at the Hall has disappeared. Because of this all microphones will be kept at the City Office and must be signed in and out.
  

Time Off Request

• City Clerk Gruenhagen requested to leave at 4:00 p.m. on December 9 and 13. Take a half day off on December 22^nd and full days off on December 17^th and December 27^th.
  
• Councilmember Mueller moved to approve City Clerk Gruenhagens requested time off, 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 Cummiskey (Streets) had nothing further to report.

 

Councilmember Trebesch (Buildings) had nothing further to report.

 

Councilmember Barnes (Parks) had nothing further to report.

 

Mayor Malz

• The ditch north of the city will be cleaned out and the City usually gets assessed a portion of the cost. The reason for the assessment is because the ditch is privately owned and the cities storm water drains into it.
  

 

Liquor License Request from the Hamburg Lions

• Councilmember Cummiskey moved to approve the four (4) Liquor License requested by the Hamburg Lions Club (Fireman's Dance, Pheasants Forever Banquet, CPA Banquet, and the Fish Fry), Councilmember Mueller seconded and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

 

Approve Claims List for November 2010

 

Claims List November 2010

• Councilmember Barnes moved to approve the November Claims List from claim number 14739 through 14754 plus the one (1) ACH payment, seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

 

Councilmember Barnes moved to recess the City Council meeting at 8:55 p.m., Councilmember Mueller seconded and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present

 

Councilmember Cummiskey moved to open the closed City Council meeting at 9:01 p.m. for the purpose of Employee Reviews (No employee requested an Open Meeting for his/her review) for Sue Block, Dennis Byerly, and Jeremy Gruenhagen, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.

 

Councilmember Barnes moved to open the closed City Council meeting at 9:44 p.m. for the purpose of land acquisition discussion for purchase of private property for the storm water pond, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.

 

Councilmember Barnes moved to close the Closed Meeting at 10:14 p.m., seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.

 

Councilmember Barnes moved to reopen the City Council meeting at 10:14 p.m., seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion carried unanimously carried. All Council members were present.

 

Councilmember Trebesch moved to adjourn the Hamburg City Council meeting at 10:15 p.m., seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion carried unanimously carried. All Council members were present

 

 

 

Submitted by:                                                    

 

 

Sue Block

                                                                                             Deputy Clerk

President Obama State of the Union

Okay, I did not get to see the speech first hand as I had my own civic duty tonight; Hamburg City Council meeting. I did read the speech and here are my likes and dislikes:

"It's no secret that those of us here tonight have had our differences over the last two years. The debates have been contentious; we have fought fiercely for our beliefs. And that's a good thing. That's what a robust democracy demands. That's what helps set us apart as a nation." – I agree. We can have and must have "contentious" debate on the topics that divide us ideologically. Then we need to find a middle ground. Hopefully pundits on both sides of the aisle listened to this as they are the polarizing group.

"At stake right now is not who wins the next election – after all, we just had an election." – Funny, I recall the recently elected President saying that "elections have consequences." Those words spoke by Obama was meant to be a poke in the eye of Republicans and fueled partisan politics.

"Two years after the worst recession most of us have ever known, the stock market has come roaring back. Corporate profits are up." – True but this is not due to his Stimulus Package; rather it's due to companies shedding jobs, inventories and other cost cutting measures. Too bad the Democratic led Congress didn't take note by increasing the National Debt by more than $3 Trillion.

"What's more, we are the first nation to be founded for the sake of an idea – the idea that each of us deserves the chance to shape our own destiny." – Bingo! The idea was a nation of a limited Central government and the empowerment of States. The trouble is that we have seen the power of the Central government increase while State Rights have been eroded. The latest is the Health Care Mandate.

"Our free enterprise system is what drives innovation" – Exactly! So why did we have TARP and the GM Bailout? I understand that not all of this was implemented by Obama but he has not shied away from trying to turn TARP into a slush fund.

"Some folks want wind and solar. Others want nuclear, clean coal, and natural gas." – I like this idea. President Obama can start by overturning President Carter's ban on reusing spent nuclear rods as the technology has improved to the point that allows France to reuse their spent rods thus reducing nuclear waste.

"That responsibility begins not in our classrooms, but in our homes and communities……Our schools share this responsibility. When a child walks into a classroom, it should be a place of high expectations and high performance. But too many schools don't meet this test….'If you show us the most innovative plans to improve teacher quality and student achievement, we'll show you the money.'" – I agree here. The trouble is the teachers Unions. For a long time I thought teachers needed higher pay but after hearing about the benefits they get after retiring my view has changed. Message to Teachers: Do you want the money now or do you want the benefits later?

"Now, I strongly believe that we should take on, once and for all, the issue of illegal immigration. I am prepared to work with Republicans and Democrats to protect our borders, enforce our laws and address the millions of undocumented workers who are now living in the shadows. I know that debate will be difficult and take time. But tonight, let's agree to make that effort. And let's stop expelling talented, responsible young people who can staff our research labs, start new businesses, and further enrich this nation." – Sounds like Amnesty to me. We need to enforced our laws and apply the 14^th Amendment as it was intended and anchor babies was not it.

"Over the last two years, we have begun rebuilding for the 21st century, a project that has meant thousands of good jobs for the hard-hit construction industry. Tonight, I'm proposing that we redouble these efforts." – Does this mean another Trillion Dollar Stimulus package? Wasn't the last one suppose to keep unemployment under 8%?

"So tonight, I'm asking Democrats and Republicans to simplify the system" – I agree. I know he was talking more about Corporate taxes but it applies to all of us. It is time for a flat tax with no tax credits. We all use the roads, the waterways, and the security of our military so we all need to pay a share.

"To help businesses sell more products abroad, we set a goal of doubling our exports by 2014 – because the more we export, the more jobs we create at home." – I am all for this but let's not do it via another QE.

"Now, I've heard rumors that a few of you have some concerns about the new health care law. So let me be the first to say that anything can be improved. If you have ideas about how to improve this law by making care better or more affordable, I am eager to work with you. We can start right now by correcting a flaw in the legislation that has placed an unnecessary bookkeeping burden on small businesses." – Okay, if President Obama is serious then let's remove the mandate, create true tort reform, and allow the purchase of insurance across state lines.

"So tonight, I am proposing that starting this year, we freeze annual domestic spending for the next five years. This would reduce the deficit by more than $400 billion over the next decade, and will bring discretionary spending to the lowest share of our economy since Dwight Eisenhower was president." – Heard this one before, I believe last year he said that we reduce deficit by more than $200 billion over the next decade. We need to put all the sacred cows on the table. Cut military spending, education and entitlement programs.

"The bipartisan Fiscal Commission I created last year made this crystal clear. I don't agree with all their proposals, but they made important progress. And their conclusion is that the only way to tackle our deficit is to cut excessive spending wherever we find it – in domestic spending, defense spending, health care spending, and spending through tax breaks and loopholes." – Didn't Obama start the speech requesting civility and cooperation? Then why not implement the Fiscal Commission's suggestions? I don't agree with them all either then again I am not asking for bipartisanship.

"And if we truly care about our deficit, we simply cannot afford a permanent extension of the tax cuts for the wealthiest 2% of Americans." – Agreed. If we are to truly take care of the deficit we all need to pitch in. Scrap the current tax code and replace it with a flat tax that has not tax credits. Although we did cut SSN withholding by 2% for 2011.

"In fact, the best thing we could do on taxes for all Americans is to simplify the individual tax code. This will be a tough job, but members of both parties have expressed interest in doing this, and I am prepared to join them." – AGREED!!! Flat Tax with no tax credits. Done!

"In the coming year, we will also work to rebuild people's faith in the institution of government. Because you deserve to know exactly how and where your tax dollars are being spent, you will be able to go to a website and get that information for the very first time in history. Because you deserve to know when your elected officials are meeting with lobbyists, I ask Congress to do what the White House has already done: put that information online. And because the American people deserve to know that special interests aren't larding up legislation with pet projects, both parties in Congress should know this: if a bill comes to my desk with earmarks inside, I will veto it." – Didn't President Obama say that all bills passed would be posted online for at least five days before he'd sign them into law? Plus, didn't he say that he would sign any bill that wasn't paid for? He broke both of those within days of saying it. Why are we to believe he will veto a bill that has earmarks within it?

Well that is my take on the speech. Now it's time to listen to the pundits!!!

The new Ambulance Chasers?!?!?

I just came across this article(http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5jLQy3ze-D7N4ZQzyDjvLA8ChIEhQ?docId=CNG.0974f2ca1c91adea909b6017dc4d554e.471):

Climate change: Dogs of law are off the leash

By Richard Ingham (AFP) – 22 hours ago

PARIS — From being a marginal and even mocked issue, climate-change litigation is fast emerging as a new frontier of law where some believe hundreds of billions of dollars are at stake.

Compensation for losses inflicted by man-made global warming would be jaw-dropping, a payout that would make tobacco and asbestos damages look like pocket money.

Imagine: a country or an individual could get redress for a drought that destroyed farmland, for floods and storms that created an army of refugees, for rising seas that wiped a small island state off the map.

In the past three years, the number of climate-related lawsuits has ballooned, filling the void of political efforts in tackling greenhouse-gas emissions.

Eyeing the money-spinning potential, some major commercial law firms now place climate-change litigation in their Internet shop window.

Seminars on climate law are often thickly attended by corporations that could be in the firing line -- and by the companies that insure them.

But legal experts sound a note of caution, warning that this is a new and mist-shrouded area of justice.

Many obstacles lie ahead before a Western court awards a cent in climate damages and even more before the award is upheld on appeal.

"There's a large number of entrepreneurial lawyers and NGOs who are hunting around for a way to gain leverage on the climate problem," said David Victor, director of the Laboratory on International Law and Regulation at the University of California at San Diego.

"The number of suits filed has increased radically. But the number of suits claiming damages from climate change that have been successful remains zero."

Lawsuits in the United States related directly or indirectly almost tripled in 2010 over 2009, reaching 132 filings after 48 a year earlier, according to a Deutsche Bank report.

Elsewhere in the world, the total of lawsuits is far lower than in the US, but nearly doubled between 2008 and 2010, when 32 cases were filed, according to a tally compiled by AFP from specialist sites.

The majority of these cases touch on regulatory issues and access to information, which can have many repercussions for coal, gas and oil producers and big carbon-emitting industries such as steel and cement.

"In this area, the floodgates have opened," said Michael Gerrard, director of the recently-opened Center for Climate Change Law at Columbia Law School in New York, who contributed to the Deutsche Bank report.

In the United States, many cases seek clarification on the right of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to regulate carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, while in Europe, the main issue has been emissions quotas allotted to companies in Europe's carbon market.

In some cases, courts have thrown out the suits, admitted part of them or declared themselves unfit to issue a ruling and booted the affair to a higher authority.

The legal fog is especially thick when it comes to so-called nuisance suits, which seek to determine blame, and thus open the way to damages.

"There are billions of potential plaintiffs and millions of potential defendants," said Gerrard. "The biggest problem, though, is causation."

Gerrard and others pointed out some of the dilemmas for establishing liability, starting with the fact that fossil fuels are used, by all of us, in complete legality.

And a molecule of CO2 is no respecter of national boundaries. Gas emitted by a car in Los Angeles or by a coal plant in China will help drive climate damage in South Asia, Europe, the North Pole -- anywhere.

Then there is the business of distinguishing between weather and climate. For instance, hurricanes, droughts and floods have always occurred in human history. Can one, or even several, of these be pinned to human meddling in the climate system?

And there's a further complication: rich nations were the first to plunder the coal, oil and gas that powered the industrial revolution, but they are now being overtaken by China and other fast-growing but still poor giants.

So who is to blame? And to what degree?

Some of the wrangling can be seen in a 2006 case in which California sued three US and three Japanese carmakers, arguing that emissions from their vehicles had caused among other things a melting of mountain snow pack on which the state depends for its water.

That case was dismissed by a district court in 2007, which ruled that the issues were "political questions" that should be tackled by the US president and Congress.

It also noted that the cars were sold legally, that the car emissions had not violated any current laws or regulations and climate change had many contributing factors.

Two other big cases touching on liability have gone to the Supreme Court to adjudicate on competence.

In the most eagerly-awaited case, whose ruling is expected by the end of June, the state of Connecticut is demanding an injunction against major power companies to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions.

"That will definitely be the big one," said Gerrard. "Everyone is waiting to hear what the Supreme Court says."

Christoph Schwarte, a lawyer with a British charity called FIELD (Foundation for International Environmental Law and Development), said that even if today's lawsuits run into the sand, "some of these cases may be winnable in the future."

"Case law in the future might evolve, and scientists' claims to determine the percentage of human contribution to certain extreme weather events may be recognised in some way or another."

Today's lawsuits may also spur thinking about future liability risks among major emitters, Schwarte argued.

Many tobacco and asbestos lawsuits, for instance, hinged on arguments that firms knew their product was dangerous at the time, but concealed this evidence from the public.

"(The lawsuits) create awareness and thus also may have an impact on the actions of governments and corporations," said Schwarte.

"They also create caution" about what is said in internal documents and emails, he said. "In 15 years' time, you might not be able to turn around and say 'I didn't know anything about it at the time.'"

 

Our court system is jammed full of frivolous lawsuits and now this! What is next? Will airliners be sued for the emissions airplanes give off? Some things I understand ligitation but to sue based on a theory that is still hotly debated is ridiculous. Am I alone here? Set aside the Global Warming debate. Can anyone logically sue based on excessive hurricanes, droughts, floods and/or snow?

Hamburg City Council Agenda – January 25, 2011

 

 

 

7:00. Call City Council Meeting to Order @ 7:00 PM

• Pledge of Allegiance
  
• Miscellaneous Business (Public Comments)
  
• Agenda Review (Added Items) and Adoption
  
• Approve Minutes for January 11, 2011
  
• Old City Business (Memo)
  

 

7:10. Fire Department Report – Chief Brad Droege

• FEMA Grants/US Fish & Wildlife Grant
  
  • FEMA Grant for Pagers (Carver County)
    
• New Paging System
  
• Civil Defense Siren Upgrades
  
• Amend Ordinance Number 126
  
  • Fees for Emergency Protection Fire Services
    
• NIMS 100/200/700 Training
  
• Chevron Lights for Grass 11 & Tanker 12
  
• Hamburg Fire Department Officers
  
  • Selection vs. Election
    

 

7:20. Doug Parrott & Chuck Vermeersch (S.E.H.)

• I/I Abatement Program (Sanitary Sewer/Storm Water Improvements)
  
  • Easements for Project
    
  • Land Purchase for Storm Water Pond
    
  • Project Schedule
    
  • Resolution Number 2011-04 (Approve)
    

 

7:40. Dennis' Report (Public Works & Utilities)

• Community Hall Ramp Canopy Repairs
  
  • Insurance Coverage (Repairs)
    
• Handicap Bathroom for Hall
  
• Water Wells Usage/Water Consumption for 2010
  
• Employee Handbook
  
  • Call Out Pay (Overtime)
    
  • Reimbursement for Lodging
    
• Project List (Added Items)
  

 

8:00. Deputy Clerk Report

• Delinquent Utility Bills Report
  

 

8:05. City Clerk/Treasurer Report

• Annexation of Property to 851 William Street
  
  • Joint Resolution Number 2011-05
    
• Local Board of Appeal and Equalization/Open Book Meetings
  
• Informational Items
  
  • Quarterly Foreclosure Report (CCCDA)
    
  • Letter from G&K Services (Price Increase)
    

 

 

 

 

8:15. City Council Reports

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

 

8:30. Approve Added Claims for January 2011

 

8:35. Move to Recess City Council Meeting

 

8:35. Move to Closed Meeting for the purpose of Land Acquisition Negotiations (Purchase of Private Property for Storm Water Pond)

 

8:50. Move to Close Closed Meeting for Land Acquisition Negotiations (Purchase of Private Property for Storm Water Pond)

 

8:50. Move to Reopen the City Council Meeting

 

9:00. Adjourn City Council Meeting (Adjournment of City Council Meeting following completion of Closed Meeting)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

"The times set forth above are estimated.  Some subjects may take a longer time to discuss and take action on; some subjects may take less time than set forth."

Hamburg City Council Minutes – December 14, 2010

Mayor Malz called the Hamburg City Council meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Councilmember Steve Trebesch, Councilmember John Barnes, Councilmember Larry Mueller, Councilmember Brian Cummiskey, City Clerk Jeremy Gruenhagen, Deputy Clerk Sue Block, Maintenance Worker Dennis Byerly and Fire Chief Brad Droege were in attendance. Richard Schug (Hamburg Baseball Club), Jim Luskey (Green Isle CPA), Chris Lund (612 Kim Avenue), Courtney Lund (612 Kim Avenue) were also in attendance. City Attorney Mac Willemssen arrived at 8:25 p.m.

 

Agenda Review (Added Items) and Adoption

• Added – Updated November/December Claims Lists
  
• Added – Updated Delinquency Report
  
• Added – Green Isle CPA request for a lawful gambling permit for January 29, 2010.
  
• Councilmember Mueller moved to adopt the agenda with the three (3) added items, seconded by Councilmember Barnes and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

Old City Business

• Item #4 – Electrical Wiring (ToTheHome Internet) at the Water Tower.
  
  • Waiting for Shawn Sprengeler to contact the City office. Cost estimation has been received. Mr. Sprengeler will be responsible for the cost of repair.
    
• Item #5 – Finish installing playground equipment at the Hall Park.
  
  • Project will be completed next spring.
    
• Item #6 – Cost to replace City Office and Fire Department Office flooring.
  
  • Council agreed that Maintenance Worker Byerly should strip and wax the floors before checking into the price of replacing the floors.
    
• Item #7 – Name that Park.
  
  • Council decided to wait until spring and name the park during the dedication.
    
• Item #8 – Rearrange shop area to be able to store the FD apparatus away from the Electrical Box.
  
  • Rearranging is in progress.
    

Approve Minutes for November 23, 2010

• Councilmember Mueller moved to approve the November 23, 2010 City Council Meeting Minutes, seconded by Councilmember Barnes and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

 

Fire Department Report

 

2010 FEMA Grant

• No new information if the Hamburg Fire Department will receive the Grant.
  

US Fish & Wildlife Grant

• All paperwork has been sent in to receive reimbursement for items purchased.
  

DNR Grant

• All paperwork has been sent in to receive reimbursement for items purchased.
  

Fees for Emergency Protection Fire Service

• Fire Chief Droege requested some changes to Ordinance #126, Establishing Fees for Emergency Protection Fire Services.
  
  • Council and Fire Chief Droege discussed the requested changes. Council decided to have City Attorney Mac review the Ordinance then make a decision if the Ordinance should or should not be changed.
    

Fire Department Gun Raffle

• The Fire Department sold 800 tickets for the raffle.
  

Toy Drive Breakfast – December 12, 2010

• Due to the snow storm there was a low turn out for the Toy Drive breakfast.
  

Fire Department Officers for 2011

• Fire Chief – Brad Droege
  
• 1^st Assistant – Adam Glander
  
• 2^nd Assistant – Justin Buckentin
  
• Captain One/Training Officer – Jared Mackenthun
  
• Captain Two/Secretary – Brenda Droege
  

New Paging System

• More information will be available in January after the Chiefs Meeting.
  

Selection vs. Election – Hamburg Fire Department Officers

• Keep on agenda.
  

New Fire Department Member

• Fire Chief Droege requested Council to approve Nicholas Mackenthun as a new member of the Hamburg Fire Department.
  
  • Councilmember Cummiskey moved to approve Nicholas Mackenthun as a member of the Hamburg Fire Department pending his physical reviews to be done before June 2011, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
    

 

Hamburg Baseball Club

• Richard Schug representing the Hamburg Baseball Club requested a MN Lawful Gambling Permit for their annual 52 Club Raffle.
  
  • Councilmember Barnes moved to approve the Hamburg Baseball Club request for a MN Lawful Gambling permit for their 52 Club Raffle on May 15, 2011, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
    

 

Green Isle CPA

• Jim Luskey representing the Green Isle CPA requested a MN Lawful Gambling Permit for their CPA Banquet on January 29, 2011. The Hamburg Lions Club will be taking care of the Bar Liquor License.
  
  • Councilmember Cummiskey moved to approve the Green Isle CPA request for a MN Lawful Gambling permit for their CPA Banquet on January 29, 2011, seconded by Councilmember Barnes and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
    

 

2011 Final Tax Levy and Final Budget

 

2010 General Fund Transfers

• Transfer $20,000 to the Water Fund
  
• Transfer $6,695.36 to the Debt Service Fund to pay off the 2001 Ford Ambulance Certificate.
  
• Transfer $67,500 to the Cities Savings Account for Equipment and Maintenance.
  
  • Councilmember Mueller moved to approve the transfer of $20,000 to the Water Fund, $6,695.36 to the Debt Service Fund, and the transfer of $67,500 to the Cities Savings Account, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
    

Public Comments on 2011 Final Budget & Tax Levy

• There were no public comments however City Clerk Gruenhagen went over some adjustments.
  
  • Fire Department Relief Association for estimate/actuals for 2010.
    
    • $44,101 ($42,101 plus $2,000) should be changed to $46,529. Actual amount owed to the Relief Association is $46,529; this does not include the additional $2,000. Council had agreed not to add $2,000 to the Relief Association for next year (2011).
      
  • There is a $1,000 in the General Buildings Equipment and Improvement. This money has been used to purchase tables for the Community Center however the $1,000 could be moved to the Community Hall to purchase tables for the Hall.
    
    • Councilmember Barnes moved to transfer the $1,000 from the Community Center to the Community Hall, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
      

Snow Removal

• The Cities 2010 Estimate/Actual for snow removal is $8,500 however with the additional snow fall the cost could be as high as $10,000. Over the last three to five years the average snow removal cost was around $6,700.
  
• Council discussed and decided to leave the snow removal 2011 Budget at $8,000.
  

2011 Final Tax Levy Certification to Carver County

• City Clerk Gruenhagen suggested Council approve the 2011 Final Tax Levy Certification at $403,276 which would be the same Tax Levy Certification as in 2010. This would be a 0% Tax Levy increase for 2011.
  
  • Councilmember Barnes moved to approve the 2011 Final Tax Levy at $403,276, seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
    

2011 Final Budget

• Councilmember Barnes moved to approve the 2011 Final Budget with the noted changes, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

2011 City Fee Schedule

• Sewer rates were increased by 5% to account for the future cost of the I/I Abatement Program.
  
• The IRS rate for 2011 mileage changed from .50 to .51 cents per mile.
  
  • Councilmember Mueller moved to set the Public Hearing to adopt the City Fee Schedule on January 11, 2011 at 6:45 p.m., seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
    

  
   

Dennis' Report (Public Works & Utilities)

 

Community Hall Ramp Canopy Repairs (#26 on Project List)

• Council has had no contact with Kip Jr or Kip Trebesch as to when they will be able to start the repair on the Hall Canopy.
  
• Maintenance Worker Byerly was asked to follow up with the Trebesch's.
  

Curb Stop (#28 on Project List)

• Maintenance Worker Byerly informed Council that the curb stop at 420 Maria was talked about during the last council meeting.
  
  • Council discussed and asked Maintenance Worker Byerly to trace the line next spring.
    

Curb Stops

• Maintenance Worker Byerly commented that he has found two more curb stop shut offs that are not working. One is at 291 Jacob Street and the other one is at 301 Jacob Street.
  
• Council discussed and decided to have Maintenance Worker Byerly call Henning Excavations next spring to dig up the area around the curb stops so they can be repaired.
  
• In the past Maintenance Worker Byerly could use Rural Water's pipe freezer to repair water leaks when the curb shut off was not working. There was no cost to the city however now Rural Water is charging $50 for its use.
  

Water Usage For 2010

• Water usage versus billed went down from last month however the city is still not accounting for 190,713 gallons or about 20%.
  
• Council discussed various ideas as to what could be causing the loss and what could be tested to find the loss.
  
  • Council asked Maintenance Worker Byerly to call Jeff Dale at Rural Water to come out next spring to see if he can find the cause.
    

2010 Overtime Hours/Holiday Work Schedule

• Council discussed eliminating Maintenance Worker Byerly's overtime rate for working holidays and weekends.
  
  • The decision was tabled to next year.
    

Project List

• New item – The lawnmower is starting to use oil and will be taken back to the dealership for repairs.
  
• Item #34 – Check if Menards can copy a Schlage Lock key.
  
  • Maintenance Worker Byerly reported that Menards does not copy this type of key.
    
• Item #38 – Repair Hall basement cooler. Lions will pay for the repairs.
  
  • Repair of the cooler is in process.
    
• Item #39 – Order and replace street signs within the city limits.
  
  • The law to change signs to reflective ones may be repealed so there is hurry on this project.
    

 

Deputy Clerk Report

 

Delinquent Utility Bills

• Diana Payne (350 Louisa) – Delinquent amount sent to Re/Max Advisors West for payment.
  
• Jon reed (416 Jacob Street) – Delinquent letter sent with disconnect on December 17^th.
  
• Chris Tordsen (618 Kim Ave) - Sent Premiere Asset Services delinquent amount due for payment.
  
• Emily Siebold (625 Kim) - Delinquent letter sent with disconnect on December 17^th.
  
• Betty Griffin (420 Maria) - Delinquent letter sent with disconnect on December 17^th.
  
• David Chadwick (710 Park) - Delinquent letter sent with disconnect on December 17^th.
  
• Nick Nordin (419 Railroad St) – Home Vacant – no contact information.
  
• Darrell Grams (410 Sophia) - Delinquent letter sent with disconnect on December 17^th.
  
• Michelle Winkler (602 Robert) - Delinquent letter sent with disconnect on December 17^th.
  
• Fernando Gonzalez (614 Donald) - Delinquent letter sent with disconnect on December 17^th.
  

Time-Off Request

• Deputy Clerk Block asked Council if she could come into work on December 27^th around 10:00 a.m. instead of 8:00.
  
  • Council did not have any objections, just asked to have the hours posted.
    

 

City Clerk/Treasurer Report

 

I/I Abatement Program (Sanitary Sewer/Storm Water Improvements)

• David Klugherz (613 David Avenue) has not replied to the city, still waiting for his signature on his easement.
  
• The Carver County Board should be voting on the easement for 470 Brad Street tonight.
  
• It would help the project if an easement is obtained from the Mackenthun Estate.
  
• Pre-Construction pictures will be taken next spring.
  
• According to Doug Parrott (S.E.H.) the I & I Project should be sent out for bids in February or March 2011.
  
• Ehlers & Associates will be contacted to have them start looking at the financial part of the project along with the proposed storm water utility fee.
  

Employee Reviews

• Employees were informed during their reviews that their 2011 wages will be frozen. Insurance benefits were kept the same.
  

Approve 2011 Cigarette License for MES Group Corporation (Parkside Tavern) – 490 Brad Street

• Councilmember Barnes asked if there were any violations, City Clerk Gruenhagen responded no.
  
• Councilmember Cummiskey moved to grant MES Group Corporation i.e. Parkside Tavern a 2011 Cigarette License, seconded by Councilmember Barnes and motion unanimously passed. All Council members were present.
  

Carver County Water Management Plan (2010 Update)

• The Carver County Water Management Organization updated the Carver County Water Management Plan on October 26, 2010. Because of this update the City of Hamburg must now update its Local Water Plan within a two-year time frame (by October 27, 2012). All plan updates must be submitted at least 120 days prior to the due date.
  
  • City Clerk Gruenhagen plans to meet with Paul Moline and will ask Mr. Moline why the City has to update its Water Management Plan when it was just done a few years ago at considerable expense to the City.
    
  • When City Clerk Gruenhagen has more information he will update the Council.
    

Carver County Fiber Optic Ring Project

• City Clerk Gruenhagen updated Council on the proposed route of the Fiber Optic project. This spring the City should know which side of County Road 50 the optic line will be placed. Alternative sights for the line will be submitted before the project goes to bid so the City will know the cost of the additions to other city buildings.
  

Projector Screen/Projector/Speakers

• These items have been installed at the Community Center.
  

Office Closing Dates

• The Hamburg City Offices will be closed for the Holidays on December 23, 24, and 31, 2010.
  

December 28, 2010 City Council Meeting Cancelation

• Councilmember Cummiskey moved to give City Clerk Gruenhagen the authority to cancel the December 28, 2010 City Council Meeting, seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion unanimously passed. All Council members were present.
  

 

City Council Reports

 

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

 

Councilmember Cummiskey (Streets)

• Councilmember Cummiskey suggested that Chris Lund register for training with the LMC.
  

 

Councilmember Trebesch (Buildings) had nothing further to report.

 

Councilmember Barnes (Parks) had nothing further to report.

 

Mayor Malz had nothing further to report.

 

Approve Claims List for November 2010

 

Claims List for November and December 2010

• On the 2010 December Claims List check #14795 to Larry Mueller special meetings should be 16 instead of the 15 that is listed.
  
• On the 2010 December Claims List check #14796 to Brian Cummiskey special meetings should be 8 instead of the 6 that is listed.
  
• Councilmember Cummiskey moved to approve the November Claims List with the two (2) added ACH payments, one for PERA Withholding - November totaling $348.51 and the other ACH payment to Wells Fargo for the remaining City's Contribution to Employees HSA in the amount of $400.00, along with claim number 14739 through 14754, seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  
• Councilmember Barnes moved to approve the December Claims List from 14755 through 14798 with the 2 changes and the 2 ACH payments for December, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

 

Adopt Resolution Number 2010-08

• Resolution approving the delegation of authority for paying December claims pertaining to the City of Hamburg.
  
• Councilmember Mueller moved to pass Resolution Number 2010-08 giving City Clerk Gruenhagen authority for paying December claims, seconded by Councilmember Barnes and motion unanimously carried.
  All Council members were present.
  

 

Councilmember Trebesch moved to recess the City Council meeting at 8:47 p.m., Councilmember Mueller seconded and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present

 

Councilmember Barnes moved to open the closed City Council meeting at 8:57 p.m. for the purpose of land acquisition negotiations for the purchase of private property for the storm water pond, seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.

Councilmember Barnes moved to close the Closed Meeting at 9:20 p.m. for land acquisition negotiations, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.

 

Councilmember Barnes moved to reopen the City Council meeting at 9:20 p.m., seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion carried unanimously carried. All Council members were present.

 

Councilmember Trebesch moved to offer to purchase 3.8 acres from Brian and Margaret Cummiskey at a cost of $10,000 per acre for a total of $38,000 also with the agreement that the signage of the easement is included and the closing date as soon as possible, seconded by Councilmember Barnes and motion carried. Councilmember Cummiskey abstained.

 

 

Statement of Acceptance

• I, Brian Cummiskey along with Margaret Cummiskey accept the City of Hamburg's offer to purchase 3.8 acres of our property for the Storm Sewer Pond at a price of $10,000 per acre with closing as soon as possible, in addition we will agree to sign the easements necessary for the project to continue. Margaret Cummiskey verbally agreed.
  

 

Councilmember Barnes moved to waive the Public Hearing on Land Purchase compliances of the Cities Comprehensive Plan, seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.

 

Understanding of Facts

• Councilmember Cummiskey moved that the land in question is transitional land under the City of Hamburg's Comprehensive Plan therefore it is an acceptable use for the Storm Sewer Retention Pond, because of this Council feels that it is not necessary to hold a Public Hearing for the use of the land, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present.
  

 

City Attorney Mac Willemssen went on record making a commitment to Mr. Cummiskey that he and Council will do everything they can to move this along to get this taken care of and try to do what ever needs to be done that the County or the Registrar of Titles might require.

 

City Clerk Gruenhagen mentioned that he will be sending Attorney Willemssen a copy of the City Ordinance #126 pertaining to Establishing Fees for Emergency Protection Fire Services.

• Fire Chief Droege has requested changing Section Two: Reimbursement from Non-Residential Individuals and Businesses. Currently it states the City may bill and collect in accordance with the City Fee Schedule certain sums to recoup cost of providing fire and rescue services to individuals and businesses which do not have an address within the City Fire Department's area of service.
  
• Fire Chief Droege would like this change to read; only tax paying people in the city would be exempt from being charged a fee.
  
• Council and Mac discussed Fire Chief Droege's request and decided to have Chief Droege provide documentation from other cities that have done this before the Council will continue discussion on the subject.
  

 

City Clerk Gruenhagen also commented that he will be sending Mac the City Ordinance pertaining to assessing delinquent utility bills to taxes. City Clerk Gruenhagen wants to make sure they are up to par.

 

Councilmember Mueller moved to adjourn the City Council meeting at 9:52 p.m., Councilmember Barnes seconded and motion unanimously carried. All Council members were present

 

 

    Submitted by:                                                    

 

 

    Sue Block

                                                                                                 Deputy Clerk