Hamburg City Council Minutes - March 24, 2009

Mayor Malz called the regular meeting of the Hamburg City Council to order at 7:00 p.m. Councilmember Larry Mueller, Councilmember Steve Trebesch, City Clerk Jeremy Gruenhagen, Deputy Clerk Block, and Maintenance Worker Byerly was in attendance. Councilmember Brian Cummiskey arrived at 7:10 p.m. and Councilmember John Barnes was absent. Others present were Laurie Hilgers (The Peace Village Campus), Jeff Arndt (180 Jacob Street), Fire Chief Brad Droege (Fire Department), and Elroy Latzig (Cable Comm – The Peace Village Campus).

Agenda Review (added Items) and Adoption

• Added – Washington Lake Township Agreement
• Added – Portable Restroom for Park
• Added – Copier Donation from Wm Mueller & Sons
• Added – Peddler/Solicitor Permit - Mediacom
• Added – Test Water Meter for Lois Willemsen
• Councilmember Mueller moved to approve the agenda with the additions, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion carried. All Council Members were present except Councilmember Barnes.
  

Old City Business - Council members did not have any additions or completions for the report.

Fire Department Report – Chief Brad Droege

2008 FEMA Grant – nothing to report at this time
DNR Grant – nothing to report at this time
US Fish & Wildlife Grant

• The grant money ($2,970) has not been received yet.
  

2008 Annual Township Report

• The 2008 Annual Township Report was presented at the last City Council meeting on March 10, 2009 however a motion to accept the report was not done.
• Councilmember Mueller moved to accept the 2008 Annual Township Report, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion carried. All Council Members were present except Councilmember Barnes.
  

Washington Lake Township Contract

• During the Washington Lake Township meeting the members decided not to accept the re-written Emergency Services Agreement between Washington Lake Township and the Hamburg Fire Department. Hamburg’s Attorney Mac Willemsen had added a paragraph stating;
  o The township agrees to hold harmless, indemnify and defend the city from any and all claims which might arise as a result of any action, or failure to act, on the part of city and its fire and emergency personnel. The duty to defend shall include all costs of defense, including all attorneys’ fees and out of pocket expenses incurred by or on behalf of the city in defending against any and all claims. Should any third parties owe money for fire and/or emergency services provided by the city, the township specifically guarantees the payment of said money to the city. Said guaranty by the township shall become effective and required at such time as city determines that said third parties have not bade appropriate payment to the city and city notifies township of same by first class mail, return receipt, addressed to township at its mailing address. The township shall then make the required payment to the city within three weeks of city’s date of mailing of said notice.
• Council discussed the contract agreement and decided to remove the added paragraph, to keep the original contract as it was before the City Attorney added the paragraph stated above.
• City Clerk Gruenhagen added that the reason Mac added the paragraph was to cover the city in case they would get sued over a serious issue due to injury, response time, no insurance and the city would not receive payment, etc. The City of Hamburg does have insurance if something like this would happen.
• Councilmember Trebesch moved to adopt the contract, without the added paragraph, as it was before, seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion carried. All Council Members were present except Councilmember Barnes.
  

Policing for Zummerfest

• Fire Chief Brad Droege commented that hiring additional policing for Zummerfest at $54.00 per hour for each police officer; two are required. The city already has 3Robert and 3Adam patrolling at night and they will stay close to Hamburg during Zummerfest.
• Councilmember Trebesch asked if there are any requirements to have so many cops for so many people at an event like this.
  o Chief Droege replied, no.
• Councilmember Cummiskey asked if there was a plan to not hire one police officer and instead have two Firemen, with radios, patrolling the grounds.
  o Chief Droege replied that there are Fire Department officers attending Zummerfest that carry radios. Zummerfest is no different than having a wedding dance at the Hall with no policing, if there is trouble they call 911. Chief Droege also commented that he is not going to schedule volunteer fire fighters to patrol Zummerfest.
  o Councilmember Mueller commented that most people carry cell phones and they could or would call dispatch.
• City Clerk Gruenhagen questioned if the city could borrow policing time from other cities.
  o Fire Chief Droege answered by saying that he has spoken with Tom Fadden (Police Sergeant) and he does not think this would be possible due to Hamburg’s current policing schedule.
• Fire Chief Droege asked Council just to think about whether or not they want to hire policing for Zummerfest. He has till the end of April before a final decision has to be made.
  

Wm Mueller & Sons – Donation of Copier

• Brad Droege informed Council that Wm. Mueller & Sons is purchasing a new copier and would like to donate their old copier to the city office. It copies about 25-30 pages per minute, is in good condition, and has an extra toner cartridge. If it does fall apart he would get rid of it for the city.
• Councilmember Cummiskey moved to accept the donation of the copier from Wm. Mueller & Sons, seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion carried. All Council Members were present except Councilmember Barnes.
• Mayor Malz and Deputy Clerk Block thanked Mr. Droege for the donation.
  Committee for Flood Relief (Information)
• Chief Droege is putting together a group of volunteers to help clean up, remove sand bags, in the Fargo/Moorhead area after the flood waters recede.
• Chief Droege looked up his records from 1997. The group was there from May 14th to 18th, 1997. They removed 500,000 sandbags in three days, 320 loads of debris, and 40 loads of clay. The group consisted of 68 people, 5 loaders, trucks, bobcats, and muscle. They were self contained; they had their own water, food, cooks, and a couple of paramedics.
• Times have changed and due to the economy the group going this year will be strictly volunteers, volunteer time and equipment. Chief Droege will try and raise donations from American Legions, VFW’s, Fire Departments, and Relief Associations to help cover the cost of food, fuel, and minor repairs to equipment brake downs.
• Mayor Malz asked Chief Droege to keep the Council informed as to what is happening with this project.
  

New Audio/Visual Equipment for The Harbor (NYA)

Laurie Hilgers – The Harbor (NYA)

• Laurie Hilgers (Housing Manager for The Harbor) presented Council with information on The Harbor and Peace Villa.
  o They are senior assisted living facilities located in Norwood/Young America, MN.
  o Peace Villa has 66 units and The Harbor has 36 independent living apartments.
  o They are two separate buildings but The Harbor was built attaching it to Peace Villa. They are considered a campus.
• Laurie Hilgers was at the Council meeting representing the Peace Villa Campus and asking if the Mediacom Franchise fees could be used to purchase and install new audio/visual equipment at Peace Villa Campus.
• The Harbor has become a popular gathering place for community wide presentations, speakers, and meetings. However the campus does not have suitable audio/visual equipment for these types of presentations.
• The campus is in need of a cable channel and Mr. Latzig was present at the Council meeting because he has worked closely with Mediacom Cable Company and EPA Audio Visual, Inc. He can give Council more detail information on the cable channel.
  o Having a cable channel the residents could view the daily menu, listen to and view speakers if they are unable to go to the meeting room, watch church services, listen to old time music, high school sports, all types of movies, the weather channel, and the news, etc.
  

Elroy Latzig – Cable and Audio/Visual

• Mr. Latzig informed Council that what Peace Villa is looking at is a complete in-house cable system that would broadcast Channel 18. The equipment that they would like to purchase:
  o Camcorder, DVD Burner and Player, Tri-pod, Microphones, Small Lobby Monitor, a fully integrated audio system (with speakers in the ceiling) in The Harbor Dining Room, Digital Signage (Magic Box) System, and two flat panel LCD displays, equipment rack. The price of the project also includes labor and training.
• Mr. Latzig has worked with EPA for the last 25 years. One of the reasons EPA was chosen was because they do a lot of free stuff for them. They are located out of Rockford, MN.
• The total cost of all the equipment and installation is $27,940.
  
  Laurie Hilgers added that this equipment is not just for Norwood/Young America but the whole area. Some of their residents are from Hamburg. People from the area come to have lunch at The Harbor and/or listen to speakers or watch presentations.
  
  Councilmember Mueller asked who would own the equipment; Hamburg, Norwood/Young America, or the Cable company.
• Mr. Latzig replied that technically Hamburg and Norwood/Young America would own the equipment but then technically both Councils would donate the equipment to the Campus. Technically then the Campus would take ownership of it.
  Mayor Malz asked who would program and maintain the schedules and information on the system.
  o Laurie Hilgers replied that she, the community assistant, Elroy, and Brenda Schmidt would do the programming.
  City Clerk Gruenhagen asked Elroy if he thinks everything is efficient for years to come and not just a quick fix. Elroy replied by saying, Yes he does think it is efficient.
  
  City Clerk Gruenhagen informed Council that there is $85,359.96 in the Mediacom Account (JPBCC).
  
  Councilmember Mueller moved to purchase the equipment then donate it to The Peace Villa & The Harbor Campus, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion carried. All Council Members were present except Councilmember Barnes was absent.
• City Clerk Gruenhagen asked when the payment was needed by.
  o Laurie Hilgers will check into this and get back to City Clerk Gruenhagen.
  
  Mr. Latzig reported on the meeting with Mediacom that he, along with City Administrators Tom Simmons and Jeremy Gruenhagen, and Councilmember Malz attended to discuss the expiring franchise contract. The contract is expiring March 27, 2009. Norwood/Young America and Hamburg only want a 1 or 2 year contract but Mediacom wants both cities to sign a 15 year contract.
• The agreement or contract is still being worked on.
  
  Mr. Latzig also informed Council that he is looking into purchasing three new cameras. The cameras he has now to record events and transmit the data are at least 20 years old. He is looking for cameras in the price range of about $300 each. City Council agreed that it was time to replace them.
  
  

Abdo, Eick & Meyers – 2008 Financial Report

• The city auditors will attend the April 28, 2009 City Council Meeting to present the 2008 Financial Report. City Clerk Gruenhagen informed Council that everything came out number wise but there are a few coding adjustments that need to be made.
  
  

Variance Request - Jeff Arndt (180 Jacob Street)

• Mr. Arndt requested a variance to build a deck on the rear of his home. The deck would be 15 feet from the rear lot line.
  o City ordinance requires a 35 foot set back from the rear property line.
• City Council and Ann Perry (Hamburg City Planner) did not have any objection to his request and set a Public Hearing for April 14, 2009 starting at 6:45 p.m.
• City Clerk Gruenhagen will put the Public Hearing in the local newspaper.
  o After the Public Hearing, if there are no objections, the City Council can adopt the resolution at the next City Council meeting.
• Deputy Clerk Block will work with Ann Perry in drafting a letter to send to Mr. Arndt’s neighbors (350 foot circumference from his address of 180 Jacob St.). Ann Perry will draft the resolution.
• Councilmember Mueller moved to hold a Public Hearing for the requested variance on April 14, 2009 at 6:45 p.m., Councilmember Trebesch seconded and motion carried. All Council Members were present except Councilmember Barnes was absent.
  
  Dennis’ Report (Public Works & Utilities)
  
  

Work Schedule - Overtime for 2009

• City Clerk Gruenhagen informed Maintenance Worker Byerly that Council agreed that overtime has to be cut down and no overtime unless approved by City Clerk Gruenhagen or Mayor Malz.
• Council discussed how many hours Maintenance Worker Byerly should work during the week, 36 or 40 hours per week. Should an overtime rate be paid for Saturday and Sunday rounds, 2 hours each day, or regular time for 2 hours each day?
• City Clerk Gruenhagen stated reason for cutting out overtime is because the city has to cut back on spending due to the cuts in LGA from the State.
• Councilmember Mueller made the comment that Council should not go after only one employee. Deputy Clerk Block’s hours should be cut also.
• Council continued to discuss options that would be fair to Maintenance Worker Byerly cutting his hours. They decided on having the Maintenance Workers hours set at 36 hours per week and 2 hours overtime pay for rounds on Saturday and 2 hours overtime pay for Sunday rounds and two hours overtime for any call outs.
• Council discussed how many hours a week the Deputy Clerk should work. Councilmember Mueller proposed setting Deputy Clerk Blocks hours at 32 per week.
• Councilmember Mueller moved to set Maintenance Worker Byerly weekly hours at 36 hours per week, 2 hours minimum overtime pay for Saturday rounds and 2 hours minimum overtime pay for Sunday rounds, and 2 hours minimum pay for call outs after hour; set Deputy Clerk Block hours at a maximum of 32 hours per week, any overtime has to be approved by City Clerk Gruenhagen or Mayor Malz, starting on March 30, 2009, Councilmember Trebesch seconded and motion carried. All Council Members were present except Councilmember Barnes was absent.
  

Seal Coating & Crack Sealing for 2009

• City Clerk Gruenhagen reminded Council that approximately $18,000 still needs to be cut out of the budget for this year and next year it will be double that amount. Sooner or later Council is going to have to make decisions on what they want cut.
• Mayor Malz brought up that some streets in Hamburg really need to be crack sealed.
• Council members commented that this winter was exceptionally hard on the city streets.
• Mayor Malz asked what council’s wishes were.
• Councilmember Mueller commented that the city office parking lot should be seal coated and not put off for another year. Last year it was already put on hold for this year. Something needs to be done before the whole parking lot has to be dug up and redone.
  o Donald Ave and the end of Brad Street do not need to be seal coated until the storm sewer project is completed. The unpaved end of Brad Street will be dug up during the storm sewer project so there is no reason to seal it this year.
• City Clerk Gruenhagen suggested having Maintenance Worker Byerly get quotes on how much it would cost to do the city office parking lot.
• Council discussed if slurry or chips should be used to coat the lot and who to contact. It was decided to get estimates on both.
• City Clerk Gruenhagen informed Council that $7,500 was set aside this year for seal coating. There was $6,000 in the budget from last year.
  Sidewalk Repair – Railroad Street (Maria Ave to Sophia Ave)
• Council discussed and decided to repair the sidewalk this year (2009) before someone was injured.
• City Clerk Gruenhagen put together a list of contractors that Maintenance Worker Byerly could contact for estimates.
• Councilmember Mueller commented that if the sidewalk repair on Railroad Street does not cost very much or does not go over budget then possible the sidewalk across from Parkside Tavern by the vacant lot could be redone. The sidewalk could be sloped backwards with out putting up a retaining wall.
• City Clerk Gruenhagen informed Council that there is $10,000 in the budget for the Railroad Street sidewalk repair.
• Councilmember Trebesch asked if the city should apply for grant money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) Transportation Enhancements Funds.
  o Councilmember Mueller and City Clerk Gruenhagen both responded that this would cost the city more money. Repairing the sidewalk would have to meet AEA standards and the Railroad Street sidewalk would not meet them. An Engineer would also have to be hired to draw up the plans which would add about 25% to the cost. The city would have to receive a 100% grant to cover all the costs but more than likely it will be only 50%.
  o Council decided not to apply for the money.
• The sidewalk along Railroad Street would have to be put back “as it was” when repairing.
  

Wm. Mueller & Sons Safety Meetings (March 24th & 25”)

• Maintenance Worker Byerly attended the March 24th, 2009 safety meeting.
  

City Keys – City Buildings

• Maintenance Worker Byerly has a lock box to put the city keys in once they are made. The box will be located in the shop area.
  

Project List

• The flag by the City offices was replaced, however, the one in the park was not. Maintenance Worker Byerly will replace the park flag.
• City Clerk Gruenhagen and Deputy Clerk Block requested that the wheels on the chair racks located in the Community Center be oiled.
• Councilmember Mueller asked Maintenance Worker Byerly to put a water meter in at the ballpark. Baseball will be starting in a few weeks so the water is ready to be turned on.
  General Maintenance Schedules
• City Clerk Gruenhagen requested Maintenance Worker Byerly to make a Maintenance Schedule.
  

Water Meter Policy

• City Clerk Gruenhagen informed Council that city resident Lois Willemsen who has previously contacted the city office with a complaint that her water meter was not working properly. Mrs. Willemsen brought in a $35.00 deposit (per city policy) to have her meter sent in to be checked.
  o Maintenance Worker Byerly will have the meter sent in to be tested.
  

Public Portable Restroom for Park

• City Clerk Gruenhagen questioned when the portable restroom for the Park area should be ordered. The Easter Egg hunt for this year will be held in the Hall so they are not needed as soon as last year.
• Council discussed if one should be ordered or to save the city money and not order it this year.
  o City Clerk Gruenhagen noted that it cost the city $713.00 last year to have one rented.
• Councilmember Mueller suggested renting a portable restroom this year from June 1st to September 1st.
• Council continued to discuss and decided to make the following motion:
• Councilmember Mueller moved to have a handicapped portable restroom located on the west side of the Park’s east parking lot from June 1st to September 1st, 2009, 4 months, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion carried. All Council Members were present except Councilmember Barnes was absent.
  

Compost Dumpster

• Councilmember Mueller suggested that as soon as it dries up the compost dumpster should be ordered.
  o Maintenance Worker Byerly request a load of class 5 gravel be dumped on the site before the dumpster arrives.
• Councilmember Mueller moved to dump a load of class 5 gravel at the compost dumpster site and have Maintenance Worker Byerly spread it out before the compost dumpster is ordered for this year (2009), Councilmember Trebesch seconded and motion carried. All Council Members were present except Councilmember Barnes was absent.
  

Street Sweeping

• Maintenance Worker Byerly will call Lonnie and ask him when he can come to sweep the city streets.
  

Time Off Request

• Maintenance Worker Byerly requested Wednesday afternoon, March 25th, and Friday, April 27th off.
• Council did not have any objections.
  
  Deputy Clerk Report
  
  

Delinquent Utility Bills Report

• Deputy Clerk Block reported that there was nothing new. Certified delinquent letters were sent out and have not heard from the residents yet. If arrangements have not been made or if the city has not received payment in full by April 15th, 2009 their water will be shut off April 16th, 2009.
• A new resident moved into 311 Maria Avenue so the city will be collecting at least one more water/sewer bill. 612 Donald Ave has been sold and a new resident will be moving in so the city will have two new residents.
  
  City Clerk/Treasurer Report
  
  

March 16th Meeting With Senate Economic Development Committee

• City Clerk Gruenhagen reported that Mayor Malz, Councilmember Mueller, and he attended the bus tour of Hamburg and the public meeting held in Norwood/Young America. About 11 to 13 Senators came out to tour the area cities and answer questions at the meeting.
• The main topic discussed was JOBZ (Minnesota’s Job Opportunity Building Zones . JOBZ is Minnesota’s key initiative to stimulate economic development activity in Greater Minnesota by providing local and state tax exemptions to new and expanding businesses.
• The Cities of Norwood/Young America, Mayer, and Hamburg gave the most testimony to the State Board on how JOBZ does not benefit their cities.
• At the dinner meeting Hamburg was able to voice more concern to Senator Ortman that their voices be heard. Senator Ortman did let them know that this is one of the Governors pet projects.
• City Clerk Gruenhagen commented that he hopes the Senator’s realize the impact JOBZ has on smaller communities when they lose a business.
  
  

Mediacom Franchise Agreement Meeting

• City Clerk Gruenhagen updated Council that the meeting was held and the attorney from Norwood/Young America (as a joint power) will be used and the cost will be taken out of the Cable Comm. Account. Right now the two cities are “buying time” with meetings waiting to see what Jaguar Communication (optic fiber line company) offers.
• Mediacom wants a 15 year contract and Council agreed this is to long of a time for a contract and only wants 1 or 2 years.
  

Workers Compensation Renewal for 2009-10

• City Clerk Gruenhagen reported that the renewal is due and was wondering if Council wants to continue coverage on elected officials and volunteers. The cost is $32.00 to insure elected officials, City Council, and $218.00 for volunteers.
• Council discussed if the city will be doing any city projects or city events were volunteers would be needed.
  o Examples of volunteer work would include keeping up the Duck Pond and Park flowers.
• Councilmember Mueller suggested keeping the Workers Compensation on Elected Officials and volunteers. It only takes one incident and $218 is cheap.
• Councilmember Cummiskey moved to continue coverage of Workers Compensation for elected officials and volunteers, Councilmember Mueller seconded and motion carried. All Council Members were present except Councilmember Barnes was absent.
• City Clerk Gruenhagen will fill out and send in the Workers Compensation application.
  

Budget Cuts for 2009

• City Clerk Gruenhagen will keep this on the agenda as a reminder that more items or projects will need to be cut.
  

Employee Handbook

• Councilmember Mueller questioned if it states anywhere in the handbook that if any employee of the city or person from the fire department is picked up for a DWI does that person have to report it immediately to the city, if the person drives a city vehicle.
  o City Clerk Gruenhagen will check on this.
• City Clerk Gruenhagen asked Council if they wanted to implement random drug and alcohol testing pool.
• Council discussed that a lot of cities do testing because of the CDL license requirement and also the cost of being put in a pool for the testing,
  o It costs $150 per year to be put in the pool and then $55 or $60 to be tested.
• Councilmember Mueller asked where the testing would be done.
  o City Clerk Gruenhagen replied that the city could be put in the pool with the testing company Wm. Mueller & Sons use. They have their own lab and there own set up.
• Council continued their discussion on the cost involved, whether they should or shouldn’t include.
• Council decided to leave “reasonable suspicion” in the handbook and do not go in the pool. Council added if an employee or fire fighter is suspected of alcohol or drugs the cost will be incurred by them to pay if they fail the test and if an employee (fire fighter) have their license suspended for any reason they must immediately report it to their superior
  

Vacation Time

• City Clerk Gruenhagen reminded Council that he will be on vacation from March 31st to April 15th, 2009 and will leave Council and Deputy Clerk Block with his personal e-mail address if something pressing should come up.
  
  

ARRA Transportation Enhancements Funding

• The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act has funding available for pedestrian and bicycle education, walking and riding paths, landscaping, etc. The application must be received by April 3, 2009. Council decided that there was not enough time to put in a request.
  
  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) was absent.
  Mayor Malz had nothing further to report.
  
  

Approve Claims List for March 2009

• City Clerk Gruenhagen reported that at the last council meeting had added claim #13758 – NYA Times – Hall and City Ad - $340.00. He reported that the claim was removed from the Claims List and will be added when the billing statement arrives.
• Councilmember Trebesch questioned claim #13768, USA Blue Book, for ½” Hayward PVC Ball Valve in the amount of $28.76. Why would a ball valve cost this much?
  o Other members of Council replied that this is a special plastic ball valve for the Water Treatment chemical lines. Cheaper ones were used but they started leaking within 3 months of instillation. The ball valve used now has a special washer on the ball to keep the chemicals from damaging it.
• Councilmember Mueller moved to approve March 2009 Claims #13758 to #13772 with the one ACH payment, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion carried. All Council Members were present except Councilmember Barnes was absent.
  
  

Additional Items – City Clerk Gruenhagen

• City Clerk Gruenhagen reported to Council the letter he sent to PFA to get on the IUP 2009 for the sanitary sewer/storm sewer improvements.
• Peddler/Solicitor permit for Todd Ernst representative from Mediacom Cable. Mr. Ernst is requesting to solicit on March 25, 2009 to May 31, 2009 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
  o Councilmember Cummiskey moved to approve the Peddler/Solicitor Permit request from Todd Ernst pending completion of his background check, seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion carried. All Council Members were present except Councilmember Barnes was absent.
  
  Councilmember Mueller moved to adjourn the Hamburg City Council meeting at 8:58 p.m. seconded by Councilmember Cummiskey and motion carried. All Council Members were present except Councilmember Barnes was absent.
  
  Submitted by:
  
  
  Sue Block Deputy Clerk

Hamburg City Council Minutes - March 10, 2009

Mayor Malz called the regular meeting of the Hamburg City Council to order at 7:00 p.m. Councilmember Brian Cummiskey, Councilmember Larry Mueller, Councilmember John Barnes, Councilmember Steve Trebesch, City Clerk Jeremy Gruenhagen, and Deputy Clerk Block were in attendance. Others present were Adam Glander (Fire Department), Fire Chief Brad Droege (Fire Department), Willard Fuellner (625 David Avenue), and Diane Hoffman (625 David Avenue). Maintenance Worker Byerly was absent.

Miscellaneous Business (Public Comments) - No public comments

Agenda Review (added Items) and Adoption

• Added – Discuss City Water Meter Policy.
• Added – Set up a Special Meeting for March 16, 2009 - Bus Tour and Meeting with Senator Ortman.
• Added – Letter to the Minnesota Valley Rail Association
• Added – Memo from Mediacom.
• Added – Memo from Ron Seymour.
• Councilmember Mueller moved to approve the agenda with the additions, seconded by Councilmember Barnes and motion unanimously carried. All Council Members were present

Approve Minutes for February 2009

• City Clerk Gruenhagen reported on the email he sent to all Council members revising the February 24, 2009 City Council Minutes.
• In the February 24, 2009 minutes under Dennis’ Report, first section. Disconnect City Well in Car Wash was changed to read - Disconnect Well in Car Wash from City Water Distribution System.
  o In the February 24, 2009 minutes under Employee Handbook the following was added as a point item - City Clerk Gruenhagen asked Council that if they have anything they would like to discuss about the Employee Handbook to let him know and he will put it in the agenda for discussion.
  · Councilmember Barnes moved to approve the February 2009 Minutes with the revisions, seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion unanimously carried. All Council Members were present.
  
  Old City Business - Council members did not have any additions or completions for the report.
  
  Approve Claims List
  · City Clerk Gruenhagen informed members of council that the approval of the claims list has been moved in the agenda to the end.
  o During the MMCOA meeting that City Clerk Gruenhagen and Deputy Clerk Block attended it was suggested to approve the claims list at the end of the Council meeting. If there were any additions to the list during the Council meeting the item(s) could be added and then have the approval of claims.
  
  Fire Department Report – Chief Brad Droege

J5 Rig

• Fire Chief Brad Droege asked if Council would like to take a short break to go to the Fire Department bay area to view the J5 Rescue Rig. Council members and public attendees went with Fire Chief Droege to look at the rig.
  

FEMA Grant

• The Fire Department received the grant money. It has been deposited and now they just have to wait six months to finalize it.

DNR Grant

• The grant money has been received.
  

US Fish & Wildlife Grant

• Chief Droege has sent in the paperwork and the grant money should be received shortly.
  

2008 Annual Township Report – March 10, 2009

• Fire Chief Droege presented the 2008 Annual Township Report that will be presented at the Young America Township and Washington Lake Township meeting on Tuesday, March 10, 2009, to Council.
  o Total 2008 expenses for the Hamburg Fire Department were $103,420.24, less fees paid by Young America and Washington Lake Township in the amount of $83,180.24, leaving $83,180.24 expenses paid by the City of Hamburg.
  o Total hours attending Fire Drills and Department meetings – 1344 hours.
  o Total hours attending Regional and State meetings – 210 hours.
  o Total hours attending First Aid and Rescue Trainings – 520 hours.
  o A slip-on unit for the grass rig and a new tanker were purchased in 2008.
  ▪ These items will be paid for over the next 5 years through funds from the City of Hamburg, Young America Township, Washington Lake Township, and the Hamburg Fire Department Relief Association.
  ▪ Chief Droege noted that the sooner the loan can be paid off the more money the tax payers would save on interest costs.
  ▪ The sale of the old Fire Department tanker will help offset the majority of the interest on the new tanker loan.
  o DNR Grant was received in 2008 in the amount of $500. This money was used to purchase FD boots.
  o US Fish & Wildlife grant in 2008 was $3,300 and it was used to purchase a chainsaw, gloves, radio batteries, training. $920 of the $3,300 was put towards the tanker.
  o Excel Energy donated $400 to the Fire Department and the money was used to purchase a stand alone light and cord.
  o FEMA Grant
  ▪ Fire Chief Droege noted that the Fire Department has received FEMA grant money 5 out of the 7 years that they applied for the grant money.
  ▪ The 2008 grant money in the amount of $13,153 was used to purchase new boots, hoses, and nozzles.
  o The City of Hamburg received a donation of two defibrillators from the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community. One unit was placed at the Community Center and the other in the Community Hall.
  o Auto-Aid was started with Sibley County as of February 1, 2009 and it will start with Carver County later in the year (2009).
  ▪ Auto-Aid will reduce response time to major fires and also provide for equipment and manpower in the early stage of a fire to prevent more damage. Two Fire Departments will be called out on predetermined call areas.
  · 2008 Total Fire Department calls to Washington Lake Township, Young America Township, and within the City of Hamburg.
  o Rescue – 15 calls – total hours 179
  o Fire – 8 calls – total hours 158
  o Mutual Aid – 12 calls – total hours 464
  o Sky Warn – 7 calls – total hours 75
  · Township Payments
  o Young America Township
  ▪ Payable 2008 – 100 units x $110.00/unit = $11,000.00
  ▪ Payable 2009 – 100 units x $115.00/unit = $11,500.00 Also, $41,250.00 over the next 5 years.
  ▪ Payable 2010 – 100 units x $120.00/unit = $12,000.00 Plus 2nd year of $41,250.00 payment
  o Washington Lake Township
  ▪ Payable 2008 – 84 units x $110.00/unit = $9,240.00
  ▪ Payable 2009 – 86 units x $115.00/unit = $9,890.00 Also $41,250.00 over the next 5 years.
  ▪ Payable 2010 – 86 units x $120.00/units = $10,320.00 Plus 2nd year of $41,250.00 payment.
  · Councilmember Mueller questioned if the back up batteries in the Civil Defense Siren were still working.
  o City Clerk Gruenhagen stated the siren was purchased in December 2005.
  o Chief Droege added that maybe this item should be put in the 2010 budget. He also mentioned the possibility of purchasing a solar charger for the Civil Defense Siren.
  o Councilmember Mueller stated that there are 4 batteries in the unit and the life span is usually 3 to 4 years.
  o Council discussed and decided to put this item on the Councils Old Business report and check if solar batteries are available for Civil Defense sirens.
  o Fire Chief Droege reminded Council that the Civil Defense siren does not sound during December, January, and February due to the wear and tear on the unit during the winter months.
  

Hamburg Lions Club – Willard Fuellner

• Willard Fuellner and Diane Hoffman (625 Donald Ave) were at the Council meeting representing the Hamburg Lions Club in their request to build and place a display cabinet in the Hamburg Community Center.
  o Mr. Fuellner addressed Council and informed them that he would build the cabinet at no expense to the city and the wood used would match the existing Fire Department cabinets as close as possible. He presented Council with 4 different size designs.
  · City Clerk Gruenhagen informed Council that he had previously talked with Mr. Fuellner and Diane Hoffman about were the cabinet could be placed within the Community Center. They came up with the idea of putting the cabinet on the north wall, moving the Centennial Banner and the two pictures to different areas within the Community Center meeting room. This would leave the west wall blank to be used for power point presentations.
  · Council and Fire Chief Droege discussed what wall would be best to place the cabinets on.
  o If the cabinets are placed on the west wall then a projection screen that would pull down from the ceiling could be purchased. Mr. Fuellner and Diane Hoffman agreed that this would not be a problem if the screen would pull down in front of the Lions display case when needed for presentations.
  o Council agreed that it would be nice to have the Lions Club display all their trophies and plaques.
  · Fire Chief Droege commented that the Lions Club should reconsider the size of the display case. They may need more space then they realize. When the Fire Department built their case they thought it was big enough but the following year they had to build another one, the first one was already too small.
  · Councilmember Mueller moved to give authority to the Hamburg Lions Club to put a display case on the west wall of the Hamburg Community Center, size to be at their discretion, purchase a projector screen, ceiling mount, that can be pulled down in front of the display case for power point presentations, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council Members were present.
  

Pull Tabs (Fire Department Relief Association)

• Fire Chief Droege informed Council that their commitments for pull tab money have been completed. He was wondering if it is too soon to start talking about and possible putting aside money from the pull tabs for the expansion of the Community Center or a new Fire Engine.
  o Several years ago a committee was put together to look into expanding the Community Center and they came up with the suggestion of going 25 feet out on the west side and the full length of the building.
  · Mayor Malz suggested putting this on the Councils Old Business report.
  · City Clerk Gruenhagen mentioned that the idea of expanding the Community Center is on the budget wish list and a fund has been started. He also added that $2,000 was set aside for this project in 2008 and by the end of this year (2009) another $2,000 will be added for a total of $4,000.
  · Councilmember Cummiskey noted that the Fire Department has to make a decision by the end of this year (2009) as to what the Pull Tab money will be dedicated to.
  · Mayor Malz pointed out that whatever project needing money comes up first that is where the money will go.
  · Council and Chief Droege continued to discuss how to arrange the offices when the expansion would be started and with the economy the way it is, would it even be feasible to expand at this time.
  

Dennis’ Report (Public Works & Utilities)

Maintenance Worker Byerly was absent; City Clerk Gruenhagen presented the Public Works & Utilities report.

Project List – Additions or Completions

• City Clerk Gruenhagen asked Council if they had anything for the report.
  o Clerk Gruenhagen reported the two United States Flags were replaced on March 6, 2008.
  § Deputy Clerk Block will note that it was completed and take it off the list.
  

Time Sheets – Overtime for 2009

• City Clerk Gruenhagen pointed out to Council that Maintenance Worker Byerly had recorded two and a half hours of overtime for removing snow from the Community Center parking lot on February 21, 2009 (Saturday). It had snowed but there were no activities scheduled at the Community Center. The snow removal could have waited until Monday during Maintenance Worker Byerly regular hours.
  o Councilmember Mueller and City Clerk Gruenhagen discussed this issue. Councilmember Mueller then commented that if Maintenance Worker Byerly is going to work overtime then someone should approve it before Maintenance Worker Byerly does work overtime.
  o Council continued discussing how to reduce overtime when Maintenance Worker Byerly needs to remove snow from around the city buildings.
  o It was decided to bring this to the attention of Maintenance Worker Byerly so he does not remove snow on overtime hours if the removal can wait until he is working his regular hours.
  o Councilmember Mueller commented that Maintenance Worker Byerly should have known this and waited until Monday to remove the snow.
  o City Clerk Gruenhagen and Mayor Malz will talk to Maintenance Worker Byerly about his overtime.
  o City Clerk Gruenhagen pointed out to Council that it does state in the Employee Handbook that any overtime has to be authorized.
  · Councilmember Barnes mentioned that Maintenance Worker Byerly on Tuesday, February 10, 2009, drove to Norwood/Young America to talk to Brent but he was not in the office. Maintenance Worker Byerly should have called first instead of wasting gas and a half hour of his time driving over there.
  o City Clerk Gruenhagen will address this with Maintenance Worker Byerly also.
  · Councilmember Mueller brought up the subject that when the fiber optic line is installed at the City Office, Council should check into how much it would cost to run a line to the Shop or Water Treatment Plant. With the fiber optic line a computer could be set up for the Maintenance Worker to use. Emails are cheaper and less time consuming then phone calls or driving time.
  o City Clerk Gruenhagen noted that having the Maintenance person access to a computer would save him time also. At the present time City Clerk Gruenhagen is doing a lot of reports for Maintenance Worker Byerly. In reality the Maintenance person should be doing them, Council agreed.
  · Councilmember Trebesch noted that on the time sheets during a one week period Maintenance Worker Byerly had 11 hours working in the Hall.
  o City Clerk Gruenhagen commented that there was an auction in the Hall during that week so there was extra cleaning time needed.
  · Council discussed Maintenance Worker Byerly hours that he listed on his time sheets. Council came to the conclusion that he has to be more descriptive on what he spends his time on. Example: Cleaned Hall after auction, removed snow before Hall rental on Saturday, painted picnic tables, etc.
  · Councilmember Mueller added that if there are no events scheduled for either the Hall or Community Center the snow can wait until a week day to be removed.
  · Council agreed that Maintenance Worker Byerly overtime has to be cut down and no overtime unless approved by City Clerk Gruenhagen or Mayor Malz.
  · Councilmember Trebesch asked if vacation or sick time hours can be used to bring weekly hours over 40 to receive overtime pay.
  o City Clerk Gruenhagen replied that sick time and vacation time can not be used towards overtime pay. This is stated in the Employee Handbook.
  · City Clerk Gruenhagen informed Council that it only takes a motion to change the requirements for overtime in the employee handbook.
  · Mayor Malz commented that Council should think this over and discuss overtime limitations when Maintenance Worker Byerly is at a council meeting.
  

Seal Coating & Crack Sealing for 2009

• City Clerk Gruenhagen asked Council to start thinking about what streets could use crack sealing or seal coating this year (2009). It is already the middle of March.
  · Council discussed this topic and no decision was made on when to do this. City Clerk Gruenhagen suggested holding the street coating off until next year (2010).
  · Councilmember Mueller and City Clerk Gruenhagen suggested that Maintenance Worker Byerly put up flashing barricades by the alley on Sophia Avenue. The pavement has sunk about a foot and it is a hazard to vehicles and pedestrians.

Wm. Mueller & Sons Safety Meetings (March 24th & 25th)

• Maintenance Worker Byerly is mandated by OSHA to attend certain safety meetings and Wm. Mueller & Sons have offered to have Maintenance Worker Byerly attend one of theirs. City Clerk Gruenhagen will make sure he is aware of the invite.
  

General Maintenance Schedules

• 
  · Maintenance Worker Byerly has been asked several times to draw up a Maintenance Schedule. As of this meeting one has not been done. City Clerk Gruenhagen may have to put together a schedule for him.
  
  Deputy Clerk Report
  

Delinquent Utility Bills Report

• Deputy Clerk Block reported that certified delinquent letters will be going out on Wednesday, March 11th. The letters will state that if arrangements have not been made or if the city has not received payment in full by April 15th, 2009 their water will be shut off April 16th, 2009.
  o Chris Tordsen (618 Kim Avenue) delinquent amount is $795.30. They had previously called saying they would pay in full at the end of February. As of this meeting they have not paid.
  o The other residents to receive certified letters are; Emily Siebold (625 Kim Avenue), David Chadwick (710 Park Avenue), Brian Cummiskey (724 Park Avenue), Darrell Grams (410 Sophia Avenue), and Chad Flewelling (801 William Street).
  · Councilmember Mueller asked if the delinquent amounts owed could be put on the residents’ taxes.
  o City Clerk Gruenhagen replied that this procedure is not difficult and can be done by sending a certified letter to the County in November to have the amounts put on their taxes.
  o City Clerk Gruenhagen will present a County form to Council in November to have the delinquent amount(s) put on the resident’s taxes.
  
  City Clerk/Treasurer Reports
  

Sanitary Sewer & Storm Sewer Improvements

• Preliminary Engineering Report updates were handed out to Council members
• Federal ARRA Funds for Clean Water
  o Ron Seymour emailed council a memo regarding the impact the ARRA (America Recovery and Reinvestment Act) will have on the Drinking Water (DWRF) and Clean Water Revolving Loan Funds (CWRF).
  o The PFA (Minnesota Public Facilities Authority) is accepting requests to be on the amended 2009 Intended Use Plan (IUP), Hamburg is already on this plan. In order to be on the amended IUP a city must:
  § Be on the existing Project Priority List (PPL) (35 points for wastewater, 5 points for water).
  § Send PFA a letter requesting to be placed on the 2009 CWRF IUP (Intended Use Plan) by March 20, 2009.
  § The project must be able to begin construction prior to the 2010 IUP being published, sometime in August 2009.
  o Ron Seymour has spoken with Doug Parrott and he thinks the City of Hamburg can get this done in the time frame required.
  o Some of the conditions/requirements for the PFA project;
  § All PFA project (that have not yet received PFA funds) on the 2009 IUP are eligible for a 5% base grant for wastewater projects and 10% base grant for drinking water projects.
  § City Clerk Gruenhagen informed Council that 5% is not very much.
  o Additional grant funding may be available based on an affordability calculation for the city. PFA is using 1.4% of the MHI to determine affordability of project costs. This percentage was previously set at 1.5%.
  o Projects that meet the 1.4% affordability requirement may be eligible for a 30 year term PFA Loan instead of 20 years.
  o If the City of Hamburg’s whole project is considered the water main improvements would have to be excluded from the 5% grant for wastewater.
  § City Clerk Gruenhagen will check with Ron Seymour to find out if the water main improvement would fall under the 10% base grant for drinking water or not.
  § If the 5% base grant is figured on the actual construction cost for the sanitary sewer the City of Hamburg may qualify for up to $60,934.
  o The actions that would have to take place:
  § The city has “as-bid” cost, accepted bids, prior to the publication of the draft 2010 IUP, sometime in August 2009.
  § The MPCA certifies all of the storm water components and sewer components as essential eligible CWRF project costs.
  § The City authorizes the submission of a letter to request placing the project on the 2009 CWRF IUP prior to March 20, 2009.
  § The City authorizes the submission of a 2009 CWRF application to the PFA.
  o Affordability – the estimated project systems costs were calculated at $40.65 per household. This is a preliminary rate that the rates would have to be at and would be including the 1.2 million dollar cost of the project.
  o Hamburg’s median household income is $47, 578. If you take $47,578 times the 1.4% the average monthly sewer bill for Hamburg residents they would be paying at least $55.51 to be eligible to receive any additional grant funding consideration for a 30 year loan.
  o Ron Seymour has a concern about the “buy American” regulation. This regulation would apply to all projects funded with ARRA funds. Some of Hamburg’s preliminary engineering reports come from China, as Ron stated made in China. This could disqualify the City of Hamburg from receiving Federal grants. Mr. Seymour and PFA are working with the federal agency (EPA) on defining what the buy American requirement will mean and what the reporting requirements are for the regulations.
  o City Clerk Gruenhagen informed Council that any additional reporting (Davis-Bacon requirements) such as weekly contractor wage reporting, monitoring contractor payroll reports and other required reporting will have to be evaluated to find out if it is cost effective to receive Federal funding.
  o City Clerk Gruenhagen suggested to Council that they should at least authorize the submission of a letter to place Hamburg on the 2009 CWRF IUP list. This would allow some time to evaluate if this would be cost effective for Hamburg.
  o Ron Seymour had previously informed City Clerk Gruenhagen that there is a high probability that specific Clean Water Legacy programs may be funded (via the sales tax amendment) for TMDL (Total Maximum Daily Load) Reduction and Phosphorus Reduction Grants.
  § Mr. Seymour noted that Hamburg is high on this list but the only hold up is that the Legislators have to approve it and the Governor has to authorize the program.
  · Councilmember Cummiskey moved to authorize the letter to PFA to be placed on the 2009 CWRF IUP, seconded by Councilmember Mueller and motion unanimously carried. All Council Members were present.

City of Hamburg’s Comprehensive Plan Update

• Ann Perry (AICP) forwarded an email informing Council that the Metropolitan Council staff finds the Hamburg’s Comprehensive Plan Update as revised by supplemental materials received on February 24, 2009 complete for review.
  o In accordance with state law, the Metropolitan Council has 120 days or until June 24, 2009 to complete its formal review of the Update. Comprehensive plan reviews go to the council’s Community Development Committee (CDC) and then to the Council for action. A copy of the draft report will be forwarded to Ann Perry and to Hamburg’s City Council for their information when the report is mailed out to the Committee.

Mediacom Franchise Agreement

• The City of Hamburg’s Franchise Agreement with Mediacom will be expiring on March 27, 2009.
• City Clerk Gruenhagen is working with Norwood/Young America on a new agreement with Mediacom.
• Mediacom, Norwood/Young America, and City Clerk Gruenhagen will be meeting on March 11, 2009 to discuss the Franchise Agreement.
  o The main discussion will be on the length of time for an agreement. Mediacom wants a 15 year contract. NYA and Hamburg only want a one or two year contract just in case Jaguar (company installing the new fiber optic line) offers a different or cheaper plan. Both cities want to keep their options open.
  o NYA Administrator Tom Simons, NYA’s lawyer, and City Clerk Gruenhagen will be going over the contract before they sit down and discuss the Franchise Agreement with Mediacom.
• City Clerk Gruenhagen asked Council if they are OK with him working with NYA’s lawyer or if they would want Hamburg’s lawyer to review the contract also.
  o Council discussed and decided it would be OK for him to work with NYA’s lawyer if there is no conflict of interest.
• Another topic that will be brought up and discussed with Mediacom is offering a basic package at a lower rate for senior cities or persons not wanting extra channels.
• Mayor Malz will also be attending the meeting.

Carver County Watershed Management Project Funding

• City Clerk Gruenhagen presented to Council an application he had received from Carver County Planning & Water Management. The application is for Capital Improvement &

Water Stewardship Cost-Share Projects.

• City Clerk Gruenhagen thought it would be a good idea to send this to Doug Parrott (SEH) for review.
• Council discussed and agreed to have Doug Parrott (SEH) look it over. Maybe Hamburg could get some of their plans on the project list and receive some money for the projects.
• City Clerk Gruenhagen will follow up on this.

Cooperative Purchase Agreement – State of Minnesota

• City Clerk Gruenhagen received the Cooperative Purchasing Agreement. This agreement would be between Hamburg and the State of Minnesota through its commissioner of Administration, Materials Management Division.
  o If Council did not have any objections he would sign the agreement and send it back.
• Councilmember Barnes asked what exactly this agreement was.
  o City Clerk Gruenhagen explained that it is to do joint cooperative purchasing with the state. He can check if purchasing supplies are cheaper by buying them through the state versus where the city purchases city office supplies online now.
  o The State of MN use to charge $500 but now it is free.
  

NYA Area Guide – Hall Ad & City Ad

• The Norwood Young America Times is putting together a 2009 Norwood Young America Guide and would like to know if Hamburg would like to be included in the Guide. Previously this was done every other year however they now do it every year. The Guide consists of information about the area cities. Information published about Hamburg could be: Friendly small hometown community, Beautiful parks and streets, Metro phone, Home of Zummerfest celebration, etc.
  o The cost to the City of Hamburg for a fourth page ad is $170.00
• The Times is also offering to put a promotional ad in the Guide for the Hamburg Hall advertising that it is available for Weddings, Banquets, and for large meetings.
  o The cost to the City of Hamburg for a fourth page ad is $170.00.
• City Clerk Gruenhagen advised just putting in an ad for the Hamburg Hall due to the cost to the city for the ads.
• Council discussed and decided to put both ads in the paper, total cost $340.00
• Councilmember Cummiskey moved to place both ad’s, one for the City of Hamburg and the other for the Hamburg Hall, in the Norwood Young America Guide, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion carried. Councilmember Barnes abstained. All Council Members were present.
  

2008 Policing Contract Refund

• The City of Hamburg received a $936.65 refund check from the 2008 Policing Contract.
  

Budget Cuts for 2009

• City Clerk Gruenhagen mentioned to Council that they will have to start thinking about what city projects could be cut or postponed. Future Capital Purchase Funds could be cut out of the budget also.
• At the end of March, hopefully, the State Legislature will decide how much money will be cut from LGA and how much the City of Hamburg will receive.

Employee Handbook

• City Clerk Gruenhagen asked if Council would like to discuss the; Chain of Command – City Organizational Structure, Job Descriptions/Evaluations for City Employees, and Health Insurance for City Employees for 2010 at the Council meeting or individually.
• Councilmember Cummiskey had previously asked City Clerk Gruenhagen if Minnesota was an “at will state”.
  o City Clerk Gruenhagen checked into this and reported to Council that Minnesota was an “at will state”. What this means is that the City could terminate a City employee at any time and a City employee could quit at any time with no notice or reason. If there are cooperative agreements or verbal agreements (on tape) that state otherwise those agreements would take precedents over the state law.
• Mayor Malz asked if the representative of the current city health insurance company would come out to a council meeting and explain the current policy and other options for the City.
  o City Clerk Gruenhagen will contact the representative and ask him to attend a council meeting.
• Councilmember Barnes asked if the City Employee Evaluations would be discussed. City Clerk Gruenhagen brought the discussion back to the Employee Handbook and the Chain of Command.
• In the Employee Handbook the order is listed as; Citizens – City Council – City Clerk/Treasurer and Fire Chief directly under City Council. Under City Clerk/Treasurer are Maintenance Worker and Deputy/Utility Clerk with Fire Fighters under Fire Chief.
  o Council did not have any comments or changes on the chain of command except Councilmember Barnes commented that Maintenance is under City Clerk so that would give City Clerk Gruenhagen authority over Maintenance Workers.
  o Deputy Clerk Block questioned Council that when City Clerk Gruenhagen is on vacation and something needs to be done (she is on the same level as maintenance) can she still ask Maintenance Worker Byerly to do or fix a problem or does she have to call a Councilmember or Mayor first.
  § City Clerk Gruenhagen mentioned that if there is something Maintenance Worker Byerly has to address it is his job to do it.
  § Council and Mayor Malz informed Deputy Block that she is acting City Clerk and if any maintenance problems arise she can direct Maintenance Work Byerly to look into and fix the problem. If any major issues come up then Deputy Clerk Block can contact Mayor Malz or Councilmember Mueller (acting mayor when Mayor Malz is unavailable).
• City Clerk Gruenhagen brought up city employee evaluations. He suggested to Council that a committee should be set up to review the existing evaluation forms. If any changes are needed the committee could bring their suggestions to a City Council meeting and the committee could also do the reviews. The reviews could be held in November of each year.
  o Council discussed and the question came up if the reviews could be done in a closed meeting.
  § City Clerk Gruenhagen and Deputy Clerk Block will get information on this and get other review forms from other cities.
  o Deputy Clerk Block brought up that during a previous council meeting, Council had decided to hold employee evaluations twice a year, once in May and again in November.
  o Councilmember Mueller commented that he does not like numbers on evaluation forms. Some other type of how to measure an employees rating should be used.
  
  Additional Items Added to the Agenda
  

Water Meter Reading Policy

• A city resident stopped in the city office and complained about her water bill. City Clerk Gruenhagen asked Council if they would like to handle these types of complaints from residents or should he and Deputy Clerk Block stick to the cities Water Meter Policy (Resolution Number 2006-05). If the resident still disagrees then they will be asked to come to a City Council meeting and present their complaint to Council. Council can then make the final decision.
• Council discussed the issue concerning Lois Willemsen (841 Park Avenue), complaint about her water meter readings being so inconsistent.
• Council decided to have City Clerk Gruenhagen and Deputy Clerk Block stick to city policy. If the resident is still not satisfied with the policy then have them appear before Council.
  

Meeting with Senator Ortman - March 16, 2009

• City Clerk Gruenhagen suggested to Council that a motion should be made to hold a Special Meeting for Senator Ortman’s bus tour through Mayer, New Germany, Hamburg, and the public meeting which will be held at Central Public School after the tour.
• Councilmember Mueller moved to hold a Special Meeting on March 16, 2009 starting at 4:30 p.m. seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion carried. All Council Members were present.
  

Minnesota Valley Regional Rail Coalition

• The Minnesota Valley Regional Rail Coalition is requesting the City of Hamburg send a letter of support in an effort for them to obtain State and Federal Funding for the Economic Revitalization Rail project.
• Council had no objections to sending the letter drafted by Clerk Gruenhagen.
  o City Clerk Gruenhagen will send the support letter.
  

Mediacom Letter

• A letter from Mediacom was received letting the city know that they will no longer carry the TV Guide Network effective April 14, 2009. TV Guide listings will continue to be available using Mediacom’s digital interactive guide and online at mediacomtoday.com/tv.
  

Chip Wood Pile at City Lagoons

• Councilmember Mueller mentioned that this might be the last year for grant money to chip the wood pile at the city lagoons. This should be done this year.
• Deputy Clerk Block will highlight this action item on the Councils Old Business report and note that this is to be completed this year (2009).
  
  City Council Reports
  

Councilmember Mueller (Sewer & Water)

• City Keys
  o At the last council meeting the subject of who should have city keys came up. Councilmember Mueller suggested that each council member should have a key for the Water Treatment Plant, Lift Station, Grinder Station, City Shop, and the Park buildings. Each council member would have five keys and the keys should be located in the City Shop area. Mayor Malz should have one key for the City office. Mayor Malz, City Clerk Gruenhagen, and Deputy Clerk Block are the only ones that should have a key for the City office.
  o Fire Chief Brad Droege who serves as Emergency Management officer for the City of Hamburg should have the same keys except the key for the City office.
  o Councilmember Cummiskey suggested that everyone on Council should have a key to the ponds also.
  § The other members of council discussed this suggestion and decided to stay with the present policy, not to give out the pond key unless it is signed out at the City Office.
  · Repairing the Sidewalk on Railroad Street to Maria Avenue
  o The city should repair the sidewalk this year (2009) before someone gets hurt and the city has a lawsuit.
  o The sidewalk will have to be put back (repaired) the same way as it was originally put in except the steps will have to meet building code. On the north end where the handicap ramp is this will have to have a plate or ruff surface installed.
  o Councilmember Mueller suggested having former mayor Mike Buckentin meet with the contractors because he has talked with them before. One of the companies is Chard and the other one is Hanson & Vasek from Hutchinson, MN. Wm. Mueller and Sons could do the curb and gutter work.
  o City Clerk Gruenhagen has the names and phone numbers of the two companies and will give them a call.
• Email from Chris Lund
  o Chris Lund (612 Kim) emailed the city indicating that he would be willing to help the city contact Senators and Representatives on issues concerning the City of Hamburg.
  o Council discussed and agreed to keep Mr. Lund in the loop as to what is happening within the city and his help would be appreciated.
  

Councilmember Cummiskey (Streets)

• Councilmember Cummiskey had attended the Bridal Show held at the American Inn located in Waconia, MN. He reported that only a few people attended but several of the persons that did attend did pick up rental information on the Hamburg Hall.
  

Councilmember Trebesch (Buildings)

• Councilmember Trebesch will contact Rick Stockman again about chipping the wood pile at the lagoons.
  o Council suggested not having the pile chipped until this fall, anytime after September, just in case no more grant money is available next year.
  

Councilmember Barnes (Parks) had nothing further to report.

Mayor Malz

• Mayor Malz questioned why the new electronic sign is not registering the current temperature.
  o City Clerk Gruenhagen has noticed this also and will be working on the problem.
  o City Clerk Gruenhagen also mentioned to Council that if they or if they know of any club that wants messages put on the sign they have to let him know before he goes on vacation March 31st, 2009. He is the only one that knows how to operate it.
  § Mayor Malz suggested putting a notice on the sign when the city streets will be swept so residents move their cars off the streets.
  

Approve Claims List for March 2009

• Question on the Claims list was asked as to what are accountability tags.
  o Mayor Malz explained that fire fighters put a tag, with their name on it, on a board before they enter a burning building. This way every one knows that they went into the building.
• City Clerk Gruenhagen added a claim to the list. Claim #13758 to – NYA Times – Hall and City Ad - $340.00.
• Councilmember Mueller moved to approve March 2009 claims #13731 to #13758 with the three ACH payments, seconded by Councilmember Trebesch and motion unanimously carried. All Council Members were present.
  
  Councilmember Mueller moved to adjourn the Hamburg City Council meeting at 9:05 p.m. seconded by Councilmember Barnes and motion unanimously carried. All Council Members were present.
  
  
  Submitted by:
  
  
  Sue Block
  Deputy Clerk

Czar Obama

While the use of Czars have been in Washington for several decades now, but President Obama is taking it to new heights. Sen. Robert Byrd, D-W.Vir., is concerned by the expansive use of Czars under President Obama. Sen. Byrd is seeing the use of Czars as for President Obama to skirt Congresses Constitutional power. Czars do not have to go through Senate confirmations since there is no Constitutional requirement.

Rep. Ernest Istook stated that, “If Barack Obama thinks that the executive branch is badly organized, and you could make a great case for that, then he ought to present a coherent system.” The trouble Rep. Istook is that President Obama is not calling the shots if you believe Rev. Wright. The latest Czar is Kenneth Feinberg who was appointed as “Special Master of Compensation” to keep track of compensation paid to executives.

Neil Braithwaite warns, in his article “Beware the Czar’s of Obama!”, that President Obama is laying the groundwork that mirrors the Office of Price Administration (OPA) that was instituted during FDR’s administration to ration goods and control wages all in the guise of the war effort. Mr. Braithwaite concludes his article by saying, “Once Obama realizes he needs a real war to fully implement his plans to “stabilize” the economy, he will reinstate the “war on terror”, and get busy resurrecting the full powers of the OPA. For the sake of all America is and stands for, let’s all hope Obama’s administration and historians continue to stay mired in the last eight “Bush” years.”

A report today in the Star Tribune, I believe the article was a transplant though, stated that Al Qaeda is heading to Yemen and Somali as efforts from drone attacks are taking their toll in Pakistan. But I digress. The Czar count is 20 and if a cyber Czar is established the list could grow. David Rothkopf writes in the Foreign Policy, Its official: Obama creates more czars than the Romanovs. In his article, Mr. Rothkopf mentions that, “all this czarism is a risky business that ends up producing bureaucratic bottlenecks, tensions and inefficiency when not managed extremely carefully.”

As the Health Care reform debate rages on in Congress, the potential of a Health Czar is likely especially if President Obama sees his vision of a single-payer government run system hits the wall. The establishment of a Czar of Health will be Presidents end run on Congress if they fail to pass his plan.

Rev. Wright - "Jews" control President Obama

Like the stray dog that never seems to get the hint, Rev. Jeremiah Wright is back in the headlines with his claim that “Jews” are preventing him from talking with President Obama. Rev. Wright spoke with David Squires of the Daily Press and retorted when asked if he has contacted President Obama that, “Them Jews ain’t going to let him to me. I told my baby daughter that he’ll talk to me in five years when he’s a lame duck, or in eight years when he’s out of office.”

Now while the election process was playing out last year, I contended that President Obama was a Manchurian Candidate. Rev. Wright went on to say, “once you start compromising your beliefs, you become a puppet of a political machine you are no longer yourself.” Rev. Wright asserted Jews control President Obama in light of Barak’s decision to no send a delegation to a recent world racism conference in Geneva, Switzerland. “Ethnic cleansing is going on in Gaza. Ethnic cleansing of the Zionist is a sin and a crime against humanity, and they don’t want Barack talking like that because that’s anti-Israel.” Now, who am I to argue with a man of God when he attempts to affirm my assertion of Manchurian Candidate Barack Obama?

Rev. Wright may be on the right track but then why did they allow President Obama, during his message in Cairo, demand Israel stop the natural expansion of settlements? Newport News reported a retort by Rabbi Scott Gurdin to Rev. Wright’s accusations. Rabbi Scott Gurdin said, “I want to be cautious about what I say, because I don’t want to sound like Rev. Wright. But my goodness, if a prominent Jewish person said something at a rabbinical conference that was disparaging against blacks, he (Wright) would be all over it.” There is a lot of truth to what Rabbi Gurdin states.

It is rather comical how racism and anti-anything words can be spun by certain minority groups and cannot be done by others. Perhaps Rabbi Gurdin now understands how white Americans feel and understand why many see a double standard exists. A prime example is Sotomayor’s comments about how a Latino women making a better decision than a white male. Mainstream media will not condemn either statement.

You can hear Rev. Wright comments at the link below.

http://www.dailypress.com/news/dp-local_wright_0610jun10,0,7603283.story

Outline of Health Care and Tax Reform

First off, we have socialized medicine already in the United States via Medicare and the Veterans Health Administration both are on the verge of bankruptcy. Medicare and Medicaid have overstayed their welcome and, as reported, will be bankrupt in 10 years. Socialized medicine around the world has resulted in long lines, rationed health care, and tax rates that approach 50% in most countries. Below is my outline for Health Care and tax system reform.

To reform our current Health Care system starts with driving efficiencies and putting the patient first.

1. Phase out Medicare and Medicaid
   a. Those 55 and older will remain on Medicare and Medicaid.
   b. 55 and under will no longer be eligible
2. Allow Flexible Spending Accounts(FSA) to carry over year after year
   a. Keep FSA guidelines in place but allow carry over from year to year
3. Create Medical Saving Accounts(MSA)
   a. Establish MSA’s accounts
   b. Allow up to 10% of Gross Income to be saved tax-free
   c. Oversight of MSA will be done with the Federal Reserve Bank
   i. Offer savings rate of 3%
   d. Congress will not have access to money in MSA’s
4. Medical records to become electronic
   a. Completed by 2015
5. Increase competition
   a. Allow the purchase of insurance offered in other states
   b. Allow small businesses to pool resources when offering health coverage
   c. Eliminate in system/out system designation
   d. Prohibit pre-existing conditions disclaimer
6. Publish cost of medical procedures
   a. Require all medical facilities to publish price of all medical procedures
   b. Regulate industry to prevent price fixing

I know this is a high level look at a potential plan to fixing health care. To assist people in affording personal health care insurance will be done through a reform in the tax program. I have touched on this topic in a previous blog entry, Flatten the tax and A New Tax Policy, where I discussed changing the tax code.

The tax code is arcane and credits allowed enable many, i.e. Warren Buffet 13% tax rate, to pay less tax than the tier. This being case, it is time for American Congress to revamp the tax code from the current system to a flat tax. My proposal would be establish a flat tax of 15% and eliminate all tax credits. The flat tax will not kick in until one earns $49,901. Going to a flat tax with no tax credits has many benefits:

1. Levels playing field
2. Rewards entrepreneurial spirit
3. Eliminates the need for 90% of Americans to file taxes on April 15th
   a. Green policy with the elimination of forms required to file
   b. Only 1099 employees will need to file
4. Reduces the size of Government
   a. Streamlines the IRS
   b. Reduces staff
   

Military Service not a Civil Rights issue

Former Army Capt. James Pietrangelo II and 11 others saw hopes of returning to the military dashed yesterday when the United States Supreme Court rejected to hear their appeal of the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy initiated under President Clinton. Earlier the federal appeals court ruled that the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy is “rationally related to the government’s legitimate interest in military discipline and cohesion.” The decision may be a setback for GLBT community but applause must be given to the United Supreme Court for not engaging in Judicial Activism.

The military policy of “don’t ask, don’t tell” is something President Obama campaigned to overturn but “urged the justices not to hear the appeal against the policy” as reported by William Branigin in the Washington Post. Many are saying that Gays and Lesbians have the right to be in the military are simply wrong. Enlisting into the military is not a right of an American citizen.

The military has certain physical and mental requirements, depending on the role, that many in the American public cannot or unable to perform. The American Disabilities Act does not apply in the military. I am not saying that members of the GLBT community have a disability; rather just re-stating that serving in the military is not the right or a civil rights issue. There is a reason why women are not on the front line.

In the heat of battle, when the command comes to take a hill that will certainly result in a high casualty rate the company cannot worry if other concerns are present. This example is why family members do not serve in the same company. President Obama has asked the Pentagon to study the affects of Gays and Lesbians on unit cohesion and morale. Personally, I feel that if you can follow orders, physically perform the task, and meet the mental requirements then you can serve.

President Obama’s decision to encourage the United Supreme Court not to hear the case is the correct action to be taken. The change in the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy does not violate the Constitution which is part of the reason why the United Supreme Court decided not to hear the case. The proper channel to change the policy is through Congress.

Obama short sighted on summer job program

According to the Washington Post, “President Barak Obama promised Monday to deliver more than 600,000 jobs through his $787B stimulus plan this summer.” The big picture question is how many of these jobs will be permanent versus temporary. Back in March of this year, President Obama attended the graduation of 25 police recruits in Columbus, Ohio. At that time the Administration herald the graduation as a success of the stimulus bill. The trouble is at year end, those 25 fresh graduates will be out of a job because the Columbus City Council budget will be $120M in the red and cuts will need to be made.

America needs sustained growth in the job force. As the $787 stimulus bill was being rammed through Congress, with not one person reading it, the President’s administration was claiming the unemployment rates would not rise higher “than 8 percent”. As of the last week, we are 9.4% with the expectation that we will top out around 11%. The Washington Post further reports that, “Obama has claimed as many as 150,000 jobs saved or created by his stimulus plan so far.” Never mind the fact the economy has lost 1.6M jobs in the meantime.

At least the percentage is better than the less than 1% trimming of his $1.2T budget touted two weeks ago by the President. The vast majority of the 600,000 new jobs are for temporary work. The tasks slotted to see the majority of the 600,000 jobs are improvements in the national parks, upgrades to Veterans Affairs medical centers, establishment of new rural waste and water systems, and the cleanup of Superfund sites. The one potential long lasting job creation will be the funding to the Justice department for an additional 5,000 law enforcement jobs.
Why are we not creating sustaining jobs that will contribute to our nation’s health and recovery? Instead of focusing the temporary projects, see above; let’s focus on something more permanent and benefitual. President Obama stated in his address in Cairo last week that he had no trouble with Iran power themselves with nuclear power. Over 80% of France’s energy comes from nuclear power. Why are we not moving forward with nuclear energy?

If we repeal the Carter law on re-using spent rods, we can recycle the rods and use them an additional time thus reducing the waste product by nearly 80%. Experts say that if this is done, it would take over 100 years to fill up the approved storage site in the Yucatan Mountains. Besides, if the unmanned military space craft, which was announce yesterday, is successful we can eventually launch our waste into space.

The experts say it takes 8-10 years to build a nuclear plant that is fully operational. That is sustaining growth in job creation. According to the Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI), a nuclear power plant generates “approximately $430 M in sales of goods and services in the local community and nearly $40M in total labor income.” Nuclear power plants employ between 400 to 700 permanent jobs while offering, according to NEI, “36 percent more than average salaries in the local area.” NEI estimates that during the construction phase a new nuclear power plant will create “1,400 to 1,800” jobs with a peak of 2,400.

So, why is nuclear energy not a top priority in the energy policy of President Obama? The numbers above are just for one nuclear site. Now if we start projects in every state we can increase the work force and establish roughly 35,000 permanent jobs and 900,000 jobs during the construction phase. Also, America would be creating a clean source of energy that will not increase our heating, cooling, and electric rates like the “cap and trade” energy policy of President Obama will do. Why stop at 1 new site per state? Nothing to stop us from expanding this policy to adding more and creating more jobs. California is looking at a huge budget deficit and already experiences rolling black outs, it would be two-fold for California. Let’s create jobs that have more bang for their buck.

Instead our President wants to start projects this summer that will create no revenue for the local communities and will only be a temporary job. I agree with the President that we need to secure our future on energy and become less dependent on coal. Then let’s get started. Lift the moratorium on nuclear power and repel Carters executive order on recycle spent rods so we can create sustaining jobs while creating an energy source that is “green”.