Albert Lea, Minnesota March 24, 2008

Transcription

1 Pastor Mike Gerhardt, Church of Christ, offered a prayer. The Monday, March 24, 2008 meeting of the Albert Lea City Council was called to order at 7:00 p.m. in the City Center Council Chambers by Mayor Randall Erdman. 1. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL Present were Mayor Randall Erdman, Councilors Vern Rasmussen, Larry Baker, Reid Olson, John Severtson and Al Brooks. Absent: Councilor George Marin serving in the formerly Yugoslavia now Republic of Macedonia on a mission trip and City Manager Victoria Simonsen who is on vacation. Also present were Acting City Manager/City Attorney Steve Schwab, City Engineer Steven Jahnke, Council Secretary Shirley Slater- Schulte and representatives from the Albert Lea Tribune, and KATE Radio. a. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. 2. CONSENT AGENDA *a. *b. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES FROM THE REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF MARCH 10, RESOLUTION APPROVING CLAIMS: Resolution represents the financial claims of the City. (See Secretary's Original Resolution included with these minutes.) *c. LICENSES AND PERMITS: ANNUAL LICENSE(S) Plumber(s) Richard Royer d/b/a Royer's, Inc. Plumbing & Hearing, 44 S. Main St., Winnebago,MN Tattoo Artist(s) 1. Christine Rosalba Enriquez, d/b/a Sinister Ink Tattoos, 204 W. Clark St., Albert Lea, MN 2. Josue Chavez, d/b/a Sinister Ink Tattoos, 204 W. Clark St., Albert Lea, MN TEMPORARY LICENSE(S) Off Premises Liquor 1. Dawn Malakowsky d/b/a Aragon Bar, 130 W. College, Albert Lea, MN for a dance at the Fairlane Building, Freeborn County Fairgrounds on April 5, Dawn Malakowsky d/b/a Aragon Bar, 130 W. College, Albert Lea, MN for a dance at the National Guard Armory on April 5, Dawn Malakowsky d/b/a Aragon Bar, 130 W. College, Albert Lea, MN for a dance at the Fairlane Building, Freeborn County Fairgrounds on April 12, Dawn Malakowsky d/b/a Aragon Bar, 130 W. College, Albert Lea, MN for a dance at the National Guard Armory on april 19, Dance(s) 1. Nathan Strom & Anna Penning, Wells, MN for a dance at the National Guard Armory on May 24, 2008.

2 2. Albert Lea Select Foods, 2410 YH Hanson, Albert Lea, MN for a dance at the National Guard Armory on April 5, Vicki Thompson/Nick Hansen, Austin, MN for a dance at the Fairlane Bldg., Freeborn County Fairgrounds, Albert Lea, MN on April 5, Brandy Williford, Albert Lea, MN for a dance at the national Guard Armory on June 21, *d. CHANGE COUNCIL MEETING DATE FROM MAY 26, 2008 TO MAY 27, MOTION: Move to adopt the consent agenda as presented. Councilor Rasmussen moved that the consent agenda items be adopted as presented, and seconded by Councilor Severtson. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Councilors Rasmussen, Baker, Olson, Severtson, Brooks and Mayor Erdman. Mayor Erdman declared the motion passed. 3. PETITIONS-REQEUSTS-COMMUNICATIONS a. REQUEST FROM CLOVERLEAF LIONS TO USE AIRPORT MAIN HANGER FOR FLY-IN BREAKFAST, JUNE 8, 2008 Acting City Manager/City Attorney Steve Schwab explained that Mr. Gene Thompson, Cloverleaf Lions Club, is requesting the use of the airport main hanger on June 8, 2008 for the Annual Cloverleaf Lions Fly-In Breakfast. The service club has provided a certificate of liability insurance covering commercial general liability at a rate of $1 million per occurrence. Airport management and staff are supportive of the event. MOTION: Move to approve this request. Councilor Severtson moved this motion, seconded by Councilor Brooks. On roll call vote the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Councilors Rasmussen, Baker, Olson, Severtson, Brooks and Mayor Erdman. Mayor Erdman declared the motion passed. 4. UNFINISHED BUSINESS (NO ITEMS) 5. NEW BUSINESS a. PUBLIC HEARING AND RESOLUTION APPROVING TAX INCREMENT FINANCING DISTRICT NO AND THE USE OF TAX INCREMENT FINANCING Acting City Manager Steve Schwab explained that a public hearing is being held this evening in regards to the formation of Tax Increment Financing District 5-18, an economic development district, for the Freeborn Lumber Company to be located on Lot 2, Block 1, Albert Lea Port Authority Plat 2, located west of Plaza Landscaping on Plaza

3 Street. The tax increment generated by the development would fund property acquisition. Mr. John Miller is proposing to develop the property with approximately 20,500 square feet of office, display, show room and heated/cold storage facilities. The estimated cost of the project is $1 million. The tax increment financing would be a pay as you go district in which the property owner pays for 100% of the project and is then reimbursed on an annual basis in an amount not to exceed an agreed upon percentage of the tax increment collected from the district. The total tax increment anticipated through 2018 is $102,661. Mr. Ed Tschida, Advance Resources explained this economic development project and the process in using Tax Increment Financing for Freeborn Lumber Company. Stated that the city has notified Freeborn County, Albert Lea School District and the City of Freeborn as this business was located in the City of Freeborn. Mayor Erdman opened the public hearing and called three times for public input. No one spoke for or against this item. Mayor Erdman closed the public hearing. Resolution was introduced by Councilor Brooks, seconded by Councilor Rasmussen. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said resolution: (See Secretary s Original Resolution b. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING CONNECTION AGREEMENT WITH CITY OF MANCHESTER Acting City Manager Steve Schwab explained that this resolution would authorize a connection agreement with the City of Manchester to collect wastewater from the municipality. The City of Manchester has been reviewing options to treat the city s wastewater with engineers determining connection to the City of Albert Lea being the most feasible from a cost and maintenance perspective. The City of Albert Lea would construct a lift station between Highway 13 and County Road 101 near where the two roads intersect. The City of Manchester is receiving financial assistance to install the line to connect their wastewater systems to the Albert Lea lift station. The agreement identifies the responsibilities of the City of Manchester to design and construct the system, bill and collect fees from customers and obtain a sewer connection permit. The City of Albert Lea has identified a maximum monthly flow of 14,212 gallons from the City of Manchester. The agreement shall be in effect for a period of 40 years with an automatic renewal in five-year increments unless either party gives at least a two-year notice of their intent to terminate. The City of Manchester is responsible to maintain their system. The city s responsibility would begin at the lift station. Resolution was introduced by Councilor Rasmussen, seconded by Councilor Severtson. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said resolution:

4 (See Secretary s Original Resolution c. RESOLUTION GRANTING A VARIANCE TO 121 LAKE CHAPEAU DRIVE Acting City Manager Steve Schwab explained that the Board of Appeals met on March 18, 2008 to discuss a request from Jerry & Janet Hickman, owners of the property at 121 Lake Chapeau Drive, a single-family dwelling located in an R-1 District. The lot does not conform to the current zoning standards of an R-1 District and was grandfathered in when the property was annexed into the city. The Hickman s would like to remodel an out building on their property. They are requesting a variance to enlarge an existing detached accessory structure that exceeds the city ordinance which allows 900 square feet and no larger than 24 x 36 feet in size. The Board recommends granting the variance to remodel and enlarge the existing building since a single modification is necessary. Granting the variance will be of no detriment to the adjacent properties. City staff concurs with the recommendation. Resolution was introduced by Councilor Baker, seconded by Councilor Olson. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said resolution: Councilors Rasmussen, Baker, Olson, Severtson, Brooks and Mayor Erdman. Mayor Erdman declared the resolution passed. (See Secretary s Original Resolution d. RESOLUTION ACCEPTING BID FOR 2008 SEWER AND WATER CONTRACT JOB 0715 Acting City Manager Steve Schwab explained that bids for the 2008 Sewer and Water Contract #2 (Job 0715) were opened on Wednesday, March 19, This project involves the construction of a 12-inch watermain loop from the existing system on S.E. Marshall Street east to State Park Road and north to the existing system at East Main Street. A total of ten bids were received for the project ranging in price from $313, to $394, City staff recommends accepting the low bid from Niles- Wiese Construction company, Inc., Medford, MN in the amount of $339, The engineer s estimate on the project was $433,087 of which 78% is assessable and 22% would be city cost; 94% of the assessable portion would be held for future assessment because the property is currently outside the city limits. A bid from R&R Excavating, Hutchinson, MN was not properly delivered and has been agreed upon by all involved parties, that this bid be withdrawn and the contract be awarded to Niles-Wiese Construction Co. Resolution was introduced by Councilor Brooks, seconded by Councilor Severtson. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said resolution:

5 (See Secretary s Original Resolution e. RESOLUTION RESOLUTION ACCEPTING BID FOR DEMOLITION OF 117 WEST COLLEGE MIDWEST ANTIQUE BUILDING Acting City Manager Steve Schwab explained that bids were opened on Wednesday, March 19th for the 2008 Demolition Contract #1 involving the demolition of the structure at 117 W. College Street. A total of five bids were received ranging from $44,500 to $263,639. Staff has reviewed the bids and recommends the low bid of $44,500 as submitted by Wallace Bustad Excavation Service, Austin, MN. Attorney Michael J. Auger, 2 Carlson Pkwy, Suite 155, Minneapolis, MN representing Mr. Magnotta, owner of 115 West College Street, stated concerns about the common wall area and wants his client to be included on the insurance policy. He also suggested that the building may need some waterproofing. Fire Chief Stieler explained that we could not guarantee anything until we start demolition. Resolution was introduced by Councilor Severtson, seconded by Councilor Rasmussen. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said resolution: (See Secretary s Original Resolution f. RESOLUTION ACCEPTING BID AND AWARDING CONTRACT FOR NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (JOB 0801) Acting City Manager Steve Schwab explained that bids were opened on Wednesday, March 19th for the 2008 Bituminous Contract #1. This project involves the bituminous overlay and curb and gutter replacements for many residential streets in the northwest part of the city. Two bids were received for the project: Crane Creek Asphalt, Owatonna, MN and Ulland Bros., Inc., Albert Lea, MN. City staff recommends accepting the low bid of $446, as submitted by Crane Creek Asphalt of Owatonna, MN. The engineer s estimate for the project was $572,176. The project would be 52% assessable to the property owners with 48% being city costs. The cost to the city is significantly higher than most projects due to the amount of property abutted either by city owned property or Fountain Lake. Resolution was introduced by Councilor Baker, seconded by Councilor Rasmussen. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said resolution:

6 (See Secretary s Original Resolution g. RESOLUTION RESOLUTION ACCEPTING FEASIBILITY STUDY AND CALL PUBLIC HEARING FOR NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT PROJECT STATE AID STREET (JOB 0802) Acting City Manager Steve Schwab explained that this resolution would accept the feasibility study for the 2008 State Aid Streets Improvement Project (Job 0802). The Capital Improvement Plan adopted by the City Council in January identified conducting a feasibility study on improvements to Hawthorne Street, (Lakewood Avenue to Garfield Avenue), Lakewood Avenue (from Richway Drive to North Shore Avenue), Lakeview Blvd., (Fountain Street to Vine Avenue), and Third Street, (Madison Avenue to Newton Avenue), Martin Rd. from Lakeview Blvd to West end. This project would involve the bituminous overlay, miscellaneous curb and gutter replacement and miscellaneous sidewalk replacement on the above named state aid streets. The estimated total cost of the improvement is $451,000, of which 62% is assessable, 33% state aid funds, and 5% being the city s share of the project costs. A public hearing would be held on April 14, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. regarding this project. Resolution was introduced by Councilor Olson, seconded by Councilor Baker. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said resolution: Councilors Rasmussen, Baker, Olson, Severtson, Brooks and Mayor Erdman. Mayor Erdman declared the resolution passed. (See Secretary s Original Resolution h. ORDINANCE 115, 3D (1 st reading) AMENDING CHAPTER 34, ARTICLE I RENTAL HOUSING LICENSING Acting City Manager Steve Schwab explained that this is the first reading of an ordinance to amend Chapter 34 to include Article I, Rental Housing Licensing. This is the first reading of the ordinance amendment and would call a public hearing to receive input on the ordinance at 7:00 p.m. on April 14, The purpose of the new section is to protect the public health, safety and general welfare of the citizens of Albert Lea who rent their housing. The intent of the ordinance is to establish a permanent method of protecting and regulating the living conditions of people who rent dwelling units and to help the city defray the costs of inspecting and enforcing the ordinance. Property owners who choose to rent a dwelling unit must obtain a license before doing so and have an inspection of the premises prior to renting. The ordinance requires that every rental housing license holder not residing within a 30-mile radius of the city appoint an agent residing within that area which the city may serve notices or contact in necessary situations. The ordinance further states the requirements to provide refuse removal and recycling to tenants, as well as the expected conduct of tenants on licensed premises. Further, the ordinance outlines processes for appeals or variances to the ordinance.

7 Councilor Severtson introduced proposed Ordinance No. 115,3d, Amending Chapter 34, Article I- Rental Housing Licensing. A public hearing on this matter will be held April 14, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. (See Secretary s Original Ordinance 115, 3d included with these minutes.) i. ORDINANCE 116,3D AMENDING CHAPTER 34, ARTICLE III, SAFE AND CRIME FREE RENTAL HOUSING PROGRAM Acting City Manager Steve Schwab stated that the City of Albert Lea currently has ordinances in place referencing the housing code, known as Chapter 34. This ordinance would amend Chapter 34 to include Article III Safe and Crime Free Rental Housing Program. The purpose of the program is to offer a voluntary, three-phase certification program for rental properties of all sizes. The nationally known program is proven to be effective in reducing criminal activity in rental properties. The Albert Lea Police Department is a member of the Crime Free Rental Housing Program and would be responsible to implement the components of the program. The Crime Free Rental Housing Program consists of four components: (1) Attendance at and successful completion of the management training components, (2) Compliance with Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED), (3) Offer training to tenants at least every twelve months. (4) Include the Crime Free Rental Housing License addendum on all written leases. The ordinance further identifies decertification and the appeal process for the Safe and Crime Free Rental Housing Program. A public hearing will be held on April 14, 2008 at or about 7:00 p.m. to receive input regarding the proposed ordinance. Councilor Rasmussen introduced proposed Ordinance 116, 3d, Amending Chapter 34, Article III- Safe and Crime Free Rental Housing Program (See Secretary s Original Ordinance 116, 3d included with these minutes.) j. ORDINANCE 117, 3D AMENDING CHAPTER 38, ARTICLE VII PUBLIC NUISANCES Acting City Manager Steve Schwab explained that this is the first reading of an ordinance to be added to Chapter 38 of the City Code regarding offenses and miscellaneous provisions. The ordinance would amend the chapter to include Article VII Public Nuisances. The purpose of this article is to protect the public health, safety and welfare and to promote the stabilization and maintenance of the community by enacting provisions that define a public nuisance; determine the responsibilities of owners; provide remedies to eliminate public nuisances; and provide for the administration enforcement and penalties. Within the resolution descriptions of public nuisances are provided such as dangerous structures, fire hazards, health hazards, obstructions of public property and garbage or refuse concerns, etc. as well as the duties of

8 enforcement officers and orders to cease. Property owners would be served an order to cease and abate the nuisance as described within the ordinance. Emergency abatement procedures are also defined within the ordinance. Persons not following the law shall be punished by a fine not-to-exceed $1,000 or imprisonment for not more than 90 days or both, plus the cost of prosecution in either case. Councilor Baker introduced proposed Ordinance 117, 3d, Amending Chapter 38, Article VII Public Nuisances. A public hearing will be held on April 14, 2008 at or about 7:00 p.m. to receive input regarding the proposed ordinance. (See Secretary s Original Ordinance 117, 3d included with these minutes.) k. RESOLUTION APPROVING AN ADMINISTRATIVE SURVEY OF LOTS OF RECORD MOTOR INN Acting City Manager Steve Schwab explained that this resolution would approve an administrative survey for Motor Inn Company as prepared by Jones, Haugh & Smith, Inc. The survey would divide a parcel located in the Buschbom Addition into Tract D & E. This action would allow the owner to sell the Power Sports building separately from the other property. Resolution was introduced by Councilor Olson, seconded by Councilor Baker. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said resolution: Councilors Rasmussen, Baker, Olson, Severtson, Brooks and Mayor Erdman. Mayor Erdman declared the resolution passed. (See Secretary s Original Resolution l. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING WAIVING AUDIT BLAZING STAR TRAIL Acting City Manager Steve Schwab stated that the City Manager has received a letter from the Austin Director of Administrative Services requesting the City Council waive Section 8.8 of the Blazing Star Trail Joint Powers Board Agreement requiring an annual audit. The only activity in 2007 was twelve months of interest earnings. The charges for an audit would be expensive considering the amount of transaction that occurred. The Director of Finance for the City of Albert Lea has reviewed the balance sheet, income statement, detail audit file and bank statement and finds the request to be acceptable. Resolution was introduced by Councilor Brooks, seconded by Councilor Rasmussen. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said resolution: (See Secretary s Original Resolution 08-72

9 m. RESOLUTION DECLARING EXCESS PROPERTY AND AUTHORIZING CITY AUCTION Acting City Manager Steve Schwab explained that this resolution would declare excess and abandoned property to be auctioned on May 15, 2008 at 5:30 p.m. at the Freeborn County fairgrounds. The list of properties is available in its entirety in the resolution and will be published in the local newspaper. Resolution was introduced by Councilor Olson, seconded by Councilor Severtson. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said resolution: Councilors Rasmussen, Baker, Olson, Severtson, Brooks and Mayor Erdman. Mayor Erdman declared the resolution passed. (See Secretary s Original Resolution n. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING PURCHASE OF VEHICLES UTILITY DEPARTMENT Acting City Manager Steve Schwab stated that this resolution would authorize the purchase of replacement vehicles for trucks #84 & truck #85, Utility Department fleet vehicles. Both trucks are budgeted for replacement and are available on the state bid list. Vehicle #84 would be replaced with a one-ton truck used to haul the skid steer and assorted attachments on a large trailer. The truck would also be used to tow the portable generators used during emergencies. The vehicle would have a gas engine. The cost for the replacement vehicle #84 is $22,903 with a flat bed and box costing nearly $13,000. Truck #85 is a 3/4-ton truck that is used for plowing the main pumping station and water plants. The cost of the truck is $20,244 with a $5,500 flat bed and box and $5,000 for a heavy duty snow plow. Both trucks would be purchased from Denny Heckers and the boxes would be from Crysteel Truck Equipment of Lake Crystal, MN. Resolution was introduced by Councilor Brooks, seconded by Councilor Baker. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said resolution: Councilors Rasmussen, Baker, Olson, Severtson, Brooks and Mayor Erdman. Mayor Erdman declared the resolution passed. (See Secretary s Original Resolution o. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZE TEAMSTERS 2008 WAGE CONTRACT Acting City Manager Steve Schwab explained that on November 28, 2006 the City Council authorized a wage reopener with Teamsters Local 320. City staff had reached agreement with Teamsters Local 320 Law Enforcement Union for a three-year contract for 2006, 2007 & The resolution further stated that the wages for the year 2008 may be reopened pending the completion of a classification and compensation study.

10 This resolution would authorize an agreement with the Teamsters Local 320 for a 2% increase effective January 1, 2008 with an additional 1.5% increase effective July 1, In addition, the union would agree to adopt a six-step salary plan for all new hires; detective salary range would be eliminated with detectives receiving top patrol officer rate and a $ per pay period stipend; and the Police School Liaison Officer position would be removed from Tier II classification to a Tier I classification with current personnel being grandfathered. The contract perimeters would be in effect through December 31, Resolution was introduced by Councilor Severtson, seconded by Councilor Rasmussen. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said resolution: (See Secretary s Original Resolution p. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING CONTRACT WITH NORTH AMERICAN HOCKEY LEAGUE Acting City Manager Steve Schwab explained that a rental agreement has been drafted by the City of Albert Lea and Barry Soskin, owner of the North American Hockey League, and is being presented to the City Council. This rental agreement will rent space and ice time to a junior hockey team owned by Mr. Barry Soskin. Park and Recreation Director Jay Hutchinson and Mr. Bob Furland gave background information on this proposed hockey league, rental agreement, and improvements that must be made to the arena. Mr. Barry Soskin explained that he will bring junior hockey teams to this community upon the execution of an agreement with the City of Albert Lea. Mr. Steve Swenson, 1203 Southview Lane, past president of the Hockey Association, stated that he is very much in favor of this project. Resolution was introduced by Councilor Brooks, seconded by Councilor Olson. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said resolution: Councilors Rasmussen, Baker, Olson, Severtson, Brooks and Mayor Erdman. Mayor Erdman declared the resolution passed. (See Secretary s Original Resolution q. RESOLUTION PROPOSED EASEMENT AGREEMENT FOR CLAY MONTGOMERY Acting City Manager Steve Schwab explained that the City of Albert Lea has been discussing having a roadway system running north and south from the Trails Truck entrance down to SE Marshall and east and west from the back of Trails to CSAH 38 for several years. The roadway network would also have the same configuration from the

11 Love s Truck Entrance north and east and west from Government Acres to CSAH 38. This roadway network will be included in the new comprehensive plan to ensure that a safe roadway network which operates efficiently is installed. In order to complete this roadway system, the City has required a 33-foot wide easement from the property being purchased by ITC. To ensure they have the property necessary to develop ITC, the City approached Clay Montgomery about moving this easement south onto his property. Mr. Montgomery has been open to moving this roadway south but has asked for the following in exchange: Clay Montgomery has indicated he would be willing to do this if the City is willing to: 1) Defer the watermain loop assessments (City Job #0715) without interest until his property sells or develops (with no time limitations). The advantage to the City of doing this is that we would have the easements in place now for future development. We would not be required to get easements from Erlandson s and Overhead Door in the future for this roadway. The assessments would be approximately $70, at 6% interest. 2) If the east west roadway is developed, Clay Montgomery wants to not be assessed for any of the roadway costs until he develops or sells. Clay Montgomery asked that his request be brought to the City Council for consideration. After discussion, the City Council changed the resolution to include assessments to be deferred up to 20 years. Resolution was introduced by Councilor Brooks, seconded by Councilor Rasmussen. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said resolution: Councilors: Rasmussen, Baker, Olson, Severtson and Brooks. Mayor Erdman voted nay. Mayor (See Secretary s Original Resolution MAYOR AND COUNCIL ITEMS a. Mayor/Ward and Committee Updates First Ward, Councilor Rasmussen reported: No Committee items. No Ward items. Second Ward, Councilor Baker reported: Committee updates. No Ward Items. Third Ward, Councilor Marin Absent Excused Absence.

12 Fourth Ward, Councilor Olson reported: Committee updates. Questions regarding the repair/paving of east end of Hawthorne. Fifth Ward, Councilor Severtson reported: No committee updates. Commended the Fire Department in fighting the fire on Pearl Street. Chief Paul Stieler gave an update and answered questions regarding coverage to the rest of the city during a fire and explained mutual aid. Sixth Ward, Councilor Brooks: No committee updates. Inquired as to when the signs on East 9 th Street would be moved? MAYOR S REPORT: 1. SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING FOR APRIL 1, 2008 Mayor Erdman stated that because the Neighborhood Improvement Project State Aid Streets (Job 0802) involves several of the wards, Councilors would like to attend this meeting. MOTION: Move to set a Special Council Meeting for April 1, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. to be held in the Council Chambers for the Neighborhood Improvement Project Job Councilor Severtson moved this motion, seconded by Councilor Brooks. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said resolution: Councilors Rasmussen, Baker, Olson, Severtson, Brooks and Mayor Erdman. Mayor Erdman declared the motion passed. 2. CERTIFICATE OF COMMENDATION Mayor Erdman congratulated Mr. Rick Ashling and the staff at the Wastewater Treatment Plant. The MPCA has reviewed our application and compliance records for the period of October 1, 2006 September 30, 2007 and confirmed Albert Lea as a recipient of a Certificate of Commendation for outstanding operation, maintenance and management of our wastewater treatment systems. The award ceremony will be held on March 27, 2008 at the 71 st Annual Wastewater Operations Conference in Brooklyn Park, MN. b. City Manager s Response to Public Items: No follow up for this meeting. 7. PUBLIC FORUM Mr. Roger Bok, 1012 Cato Drive, stated the following: Questions regarding the installation of the lift station near the property of Darv Habben. Mr. Bok stated that this was to be installed over 2 years ago. City Engineer Steve Jahnke stated that is project has not been approved by the City Council.

13 Ms. Cathy Rofshus, Shell Rock Watershed, stated the following: Thanked the Council for working with the City of Manchester in solving their wastewater problem. 8. ADJOURNMENT 8:35 p.m. Councilor Olson moved and Councilor Severtson seconded that there being no further business, the council meeting be adjourned at 8:35 p.m., until the next regular meeting of the Albert Lea City Council at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, April 14, On roll call vote, all councilors voted in favor of said motion. Mayor Erdman declared the motion passed and the meeting adjourned. Filed and attested March 25, Secretary of the Council Mayor Randall Erdman