HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-05-28 City Council Meeting Minutes
MINUTES
MAPLEWOOD CITY COUNCIL
7:00 P.M. Tuesday, May 28, 2024
City Hall, Council Chambers
Meeting No. 10-24
A. CALL TO ORDER
A meeting of the City Council was held in the City Hall Council Chambers and was called to
order at 7:00 by Mayor Abrams.
Mayor Abrams reflected on Emerald Ash Borer, its impact on residents, and a program that
the City is working on implementing that will assist in the removal of diseased EAB trees on
private residences.
B. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
C. ROLL CALL
Marylee Abrams, Mayor Present
Rebecca Cave, Councilmember Present
Kathleen Juenemann, Councilmember Present
Chonburi Lee, Councilmember Present
Nikki Villavicencio, Councilmember Absent
D. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Councilmember Cave moved to approve the agenda as submitted.
Seconded by Councilmember Lee Ayes – All
The motion passed.
E. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. May 13, 2024 City Council Workshop Meeting Minutes
Councilmember Lee moved to approve the May 13, 2024 City Council Workshop Meeting
Minutes as submitted.
Seconded by Councilmember Juenemann Ayes – All
The motion passed.
2. May 13, 2024 City Council Meeting Minutes
Councilmember Juenemann moved to approve the May 13, 2024 City Council Meeting
Minutes as submitted.
Seconded by Councilmember Lee Ayes – All
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The motion passed.
F. APPOINTMENTS AND PRESENTATIONS
1. Administrative Presentations
a. Council Calendar Update
City Manager Sable gave an update to the council calendar and reviewed other topics of
concern or interest requested by councilmembers.
2. Council Presentations
None
3. Resolution of Appreciation for Retiring Human Resources Manager Terrie
Rameaux
Assistant City Manager/HR Director Darrow gave the staff report. City Manager Sable
provided additional comments. Councilmember Juenemann read the Resolution of
Appreciation. Human Resources Manager Rameaux addressed council and expressed
thanks.
Councilmember Juenemann moved to approve the resolution of appreciation for Human
Resource Manager Terrie Rameaux.
Resolution 24-05-2315
RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION FOR RETIRING HUMAN RESOURCE
MANAGER TERRIE RAMEAUX
WHEREAS, Terrie Rameaux began working for the City of Maplewood as the
Secretary for the Finance Department on June 4, 1990, becoming Executive Secretary in
January 1992, and transferring to the Human Resource Department in January 2005 where
she has held multiple positions, culminating in her current role as Human Resource Manager;
and
WHEREAS, through Terrie Rameaux’s leadership, the City of Maplewood’s Human
Resource department has grown significantly over the years; and
WHEREAS, Terrie Rameaux has provided professional services to our employees
throughout her 34 years as an employee of the City of Maplewood; and
WHEREAS, Terrie Rameaux has met with hundreds of employees throughout her
years of service assisting them with managing difficult decisions, providing guidance, and
addressing issues with compassion and care; and
WHEREAS, Terrie Rameaux has been a tireless advocate for our staff and has
worked with our seven labor unions on issues of pay, pay equity, health insurance, and
benefits; and
WHEREAS, Terrie Rameaux’s work ethic, attention to detail and collaborative spirit
will be greatly missed and her legacy as our Human Resource Manager will live on for years
to come.
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NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED for and on behalf of the City of
Maplewood, Minnesota, and its residents, that Terrie Rameaux is being extended our
gratitude and appreciation for her professionalism and dedicated service over the past 34
years.
Seconded by Councilmember Cave Ayes – All
The motion passed.
4. Resolution Awarding the 2023 Maplewood Heritage Award to Virginia Gaynor
Communication Manager Sheeran gave the staff report and presented the award. Virginia
Gaynor thanked the council and commission and reflected on the numerous projects
completed with the city.
Councilmember Juenemann moved to approve the resolution awarding the 2023 Maplewood
Heritage Award to Virginia Gaynor.
Resolution 24-05-2316
RESOLUTION AWARDING THE 2023 MAPLEWOOD HERITAGE AWARD
TO VIRGINIA GAYNOR
Whereas, Virginia Gaynor served as staff liaison to the Heritage Preservation
Commission from May 2013 to June 2019. Among her many attributes, those who nominated
her for this award, appreciate her attention to detail, professionalism and positive attitude;
and
Whereas, Ms. Gaynor was instrumental in several large projects that preserved and
celebrated Maplewood History; and
Whereas, she oversaw the Historic Context Study. Maplewood is still using this report
today. It surveyed a wide range of buildings and open spaces thorough the City, provided
their context within the City’s history and recommended ways to preserve or commemorate
the parcels; and
Whereas, Ms. Gaynor helped direct the publication of 60 Stories, a book that brought
to life many aspects of Maplewood’s 60-year history as an incorporated City. She authored
six of the 60 stories; and
Whereas, in her role as both Natural Resources Coordinator and HPC Liaison, Ms.
Gaynor played a lead role in surveying the Gladstone Savannah, former site of a large-scale
rail maintenance yard. Through the work, they were able to determine where key structures
were located, which helped them mark and recreate some aspects of the rail yard.
BECAUSE OF THESE ACTIONS, IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED on behalf of the City of
Maplewood, that Virginia Gaynor is presented the Maplewood Heritage Award, which
recognizes an individual who has significantly contributed to preservation of Maplewood
history or historic sites through research, preservation, or education and outreach
Seconded by Councilmember Lee Ayes – All
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The motion passed.
Councilmember Juenemann announced the passing of past Heritage Preservation
Commission member, Lois Behm, and asked for a moment of remembrance.
5. Resolution of Appreciation for HPC Commissioner Barbara Kearn
Communication Manager Sheeran gave the staff report. Councilmember Lee read the
Resolution of Appreciation. Barbara Kearn addressed council and expressed thanks for the
opportunity to serve.
Councilmember Juenemann moved to approve the Resolution of Appreciation for Barbara
Kearn.
Resolution 24-05-2317
RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION
Whereas, Barbara Kearn has been a member of the Maplewood Heritage
Preservation Commission from October 2021 to April 2024; and
Whereas, the Heritage Preservation Commission and the City Council appreciate
her experience, insights, and good judgment; and
Whereas, she has freely given her time and energy, without compensation, for the
betterment of Maplewood; and
Whereas, Commissioner Kearn’s service far exceeded her duty of preparing for
and attending Heritage Preservation Commission meetings. She also worked on grants,
preservation projects, and attended the three-day Preserve Minnesota Conference in
2022; and
Whereas, the City of Maplewood has greatly benefited from her dedication and
leadership.
THEREFORE, IT IS HEREBY RESOLVED on behalf of the City of Maplewood,
Minnesota, and its citizens that Barbara Kearn is extended our gratitude and appreciation for
her dedicated service.
Seconded by Councilmember Cave Ayes – All
The motion passed.
G. CONSENT AGENDA – Items on the Consent Agenda are considered routine and non-
controversial and are approved by one motion of the council. If a councilmember requests
additional information or wants to make a comment regarding an item, the vote should be
held until the questions or comments are made then the single vote should be taken. If a
councilmember objects to an item it should be removed and acted upon as a separate item.
Agenda items G3 & G6 were highlighted.
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Councilmember Lee moved to approve agenda items G1-G8.
Seconded by Councilmember Cave Ayes – All
The motion passed.
1. Approval of Claims
Councilmember Lee moved to approve the approval of claims.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE:
$ 469,484.53 Checks # 121066 thru # 121109
dated 05/14/24
$ 98,601.29 Checks # 121110 thru # 121150
dated 05/21/24
$ 441,882.13 Disbursements via debits to checking account
dated 04/15/24 thru 05/05/24
$ 1,009,967.95 Total Accounts Payable
PAYROLL
$ 699,409.46 Payroll Checks and Direct Deposits dated 05/10/24
$ 699,409.46 Total Payroll
$ 1,709,377.41 GRAND TOTAL
Seconded by Councilmember Cave Ayes – All
The motion passed.
2. Local Lawful Gambling Permit for Associated General Contractors of MN, Keller
Golf Course, 2166 Maplewood Drive
Councilmember Lee moved to approve the Local Lawful Gambling permit for Associated
General Contractors of MN for their event on August 2, 2024 at Keller Golf Course, 2166
Maplewood Drive.
Seconded by Councilmember Cave Ayes – All
The motion passed.
3. Conditional Use Permit Review, White Bear Meadery, 1320 County Road D Circle
East
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Councilmember Lee moved to approve the CUP review for White Bear Meadery, located at
1320 County Road D Circle East, and review only if a problem arises or a significant change
is proposed.
Seconded by Councilmember Cave Ayes – All
The motion passed.
4. Conditional Use Permit Review, Gladstone Village, 1310 Frost Avenue East
Councilmember Lee moved to approve the CUP review for Gladstone Village, located at
1310 Frost Avenue East, and review again in one year.
Seconded by Councilmember Cave Ayes – All
The motion passed.
5. Conditional Use Permit Review, Galahad Senior Housing Development, 1910
County Road C East
Councilmember Lee moved to approve the CUP review for the Galahad Senior Housing
Development, located at 1910 County Road C East, and review again in one year.
Seconded by Councilmember Cave Ayes – All
The motion passed.
6. Purchase New Fire Engine
Councilmember Lee moved to approve the purchase of a new fire engine.
Seconded by Councilmember Cave Ayes – All
The motion passed.
7. Afton Heights Park Field Use Agreement with St. Paul Rugby Football Club
Councilmember Lee moved to approve the field use agreement with the St. Paul Rugby
Football Club for Afton Heights Park and direct the Mayor and City Manager to sign the
agreement. Minor revisions as approved by the City Attorney, are authorized as needed.
Seconded by Councilmember Cave Ayes – All
The motion passed.
8. Resolution to Conduct Off-Site Gambling for Merrick, Inc., July 4th Celebration at
Hazelwood Park, 1663 County Road C East
Councilmember Lee moved to approve the Resolution to Conduct Off-Site Gambling for
Merrick, Inc. on Thursday, July 4, 2024 during the July 4th Celebration.
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Resolution 24-05-2318
CITY APPROVAL TO CONDUCT OFF-SITE GAMBLING WITHIN CITY LIMITS
MERRICK, INC
WHEREAS, Merrick, Inc. has submitted an Application to Conduct Off-Site Gambling
th
at the July 4 Celebration at Hazelwood Park, 1663 County Road D East in Maplewood, MN
55109; and
WHEREAS, the off-site gambling will take place during the July 4th Celebration on
Thursday, July 4, 2024.
BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED, by the City Council of Maplewood, Minnesota, that
Application to Conduct Off-Site Gambling is approved for Merrick, Inc. during the date stated
above.
FURTHERMORE, that the Maplewood City Council requests that the Gambling
Control Board approve said permit application as being in compliance with Minnesota Statute
§349.213.
NOW, THEREFORE, be it further resolved that this Resolution by the City Council of
Maplewood, Minnesota, be forwarded to the Gambling Control Board for their approval.
Seconded by Councilmember Cave Ayes – All
The motion passed.
H. PUBLIC HEARINGS – If you are here for a Public Hearing please familiarize yourself with
the Rules of Civility printed on the back of the agenda. Sign in with the City Clerk before
addressing the council. At the podium please state your name and address clearly for the
record. All comments/questions shall be posed to the Mayor and Council. The Mayor will then
direct staff, as appropriate, to answer questions or respond to comments.
1. Gladstone Village, 1310 Frost Avenue East
a. Public Hearing
b. Public Vacation of an Easement Resolution (4 Votes)
Public Works Director Love gave the staff report.
Mayor Abrams opened public hearing. The following people spoke:
None
Mayor Abrams closed the public hearing
Councilmember Cave moved to approve the resolution for the public vacation of an
easement located within the site at 1310 Frost Avenue East.
Resolution 24-05-2319
PUBLIC VACATION OF AN EASEMENT RESOLUTION
BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Maplewood, Minnesota, as follows:
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Section 1. Background.
1.01 Ashley Bisner of JB Vang, petitioned the Maplewood City Council to vacate an
unused public easement that is entirely within the site at 1310 Frost Avenue East.
1.02 Gladstone, Ramsey Co Minn is the plat that created the lots that comprise 1310 Frost
Avenue East.
1.03 The utility easement was originally recorded with the vacation of Ridge Street from
Skillman Avenue to 320 feet south of Ripley Street on June 3, 1971 with a recording
document number of 1801806.
1.04 This resolution vacates the utility easement within the former Ridge Street right-of-
way for the property legally described as:
Lots 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7, except the South 7 feet of said Lot 7, Block 3, Gladstone,
according to the recorded plat thereof, together with the vacated Ridge Street
adjacent, Ramsey County, Minnesota.
1.05 Hearing notices on said petition was published in the City of Maplewood’s official
newspaper and written notice was mailed to the affected property owners.
1.06 On May 28, 2024, the City Council held a hearing on such petition, at which
time all persons for and against the granting of said petition were heard.
Section 2. Standards
2.01 Minnesota state statute requires that no vacation shall be made unless it appears in
the interest of the public to do so.
Section 3. Findings.
3.01 The Maplewood City Council makes the following findings:
1. There is no anticipated public need for the described unused public easement.
2. The vacation is not counter to the public interest.
Section 4. City Council
4.01 The city council hereby approves the resolution. Approval is based on the findings
outlined in Section 3 of this resolution.
Seconded by Councilmember Juenemann Ayes – All
The motion passed.
I. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None
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J. NEW BUSINESS
1. Use of SRF Consulting Group, Inc. for Professional Services, 2024 Maplewood
Street Improvements, City Project 23-08
Public Works Director Love gave the staff report.
Mayor Abrams moved to authorize the use of SRF Consulting Group, Inc. for professional
services and further authorize the Mayor and City Manager to sign the attached work order
with SRF Consulting Group, Inc. for professional services including construction surveying
and construction inspection services.
Seconded by Councilmember Juenemann Ayes – All
The motion passed.
2. Electric Franchise Fee Ordinances
a. Revised Electric Franchise Ordinance
b. Revised Electric Franchise Fee Ordinance
c. Resolution Authorizing Publication of Electric Franchise Ordinance by
Title and Summary (4 Votes)
d. Resolution Authorizing Publication of Electric Franchise Fee Ordinance by
Title and Summary (4 Votes)
Public Works Director Love gave the presentation.
Councilmember Cave moved to approve the Revised Electric Franchise Ordinance.
Ordinance 1047
ELECTRIC FRANCHISE ORDINANCE
The City Council of the City of Maplewood, Ramsey County, Minnesota, Ordains:
Section 1. DEFINITIONS.
For purposes of this Ordinance, the following capitalized terms listed in alphabetical
order shall have the following meanings:
1.1 City. The City of Maplewood, County of Ramsey, State of Minnesota.
1.2 City Utility System. Facilities used for providing public utility service owned or
operated by City or agency thereof, including sewer, storm water, water
service, street lighting, and traffic signals, but excluding facilities for providing
heating, lighting or other forms of energy.
1.3 Commission. The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission, or any successor
agency or agencies, including an agency of the federal government, which
preempts all, or part of the authority to regulate electric retail rates now vested
in the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission.
1.4 Company. Northern States Power Company, a Minnesota corporation, its
successors and assigns.
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1.5 Electric Facilities. Electric transmission and distribution towers, poles, lines,
guys, anchors, conduits, fixtures, and necessary appurtenances owned or
operated by Company for the purpose of providing electric energy for public
use.
1.6 Notice. A written notice served by one party on the other party referencing
one or more provisions of this Ordinance. Notice to Company shall be mailed
th
to the General Counsel, 401 Nicollet Mall, 8 Floor, Minneapolis, MN 55401.
Notice to the City shall be mailed to the City Clerk, City Hall, 1830 East County
Road B, Maplewood, MN 55109. Either party may change its respective
address for the purpose of this Ordinance by written notice to the other party.
1.7 Public Ground. Land owned by the City for park, open space or similar public
purpose, which is held for use in common by the public and not a Public Way.
1.8 Public Way. Any street, alley, walkway or other public right-of-way, as defined
by Minnesota Statutes, Section 237.162, subd. 3, within the City.
Section 2. ADOPTION OF FRANCHISE.
2.1 Grant of Franchise. City hereby grants Company, for a period of 20 years
from the date passed and approved by the City, the right to transmit and
furnish electric energy for light, heat, power and other purposes for public and
private use within and through the limits of the City as its boundaries now exist
or as they may be extended in the future. For these purposes, Company may
construct, operate, repair and maintain Electric Facilities in, on, over, under
and across the Public Grounds and Public Ways of City, subject to the
provisions of this Ordinance. Company may do all reasonable things
necessary or customary to accomplish these purposes, subject, however, to
such reasonable regulations as may be imposed by the City pursuant to
ordinance and to the further provisions of this franchise agreement.
2.2 Effective Date; Written Acceptance. This franchise agreement shall be in
force and effect from and after passage of this Ordinance, its acceptance by
Company, and its publication as required by law. The City, by Council
resolution, may revoke this franchise agreement if Company does not file a
written acceptance with the City within 90 days after publication.
2.3 Service and Rates. The service to be provided and the rates to be charged by
Company for electric service in City are subject to the jurisdiction of the
Commission. The area within the City in which Company may provide electric
service is subject to the provisions of Minnesota Statutes, Section 216B.40.
2.4 Publication Expense. The expense of publication of this Ordinance will be
paid by City and reimbursed to City by Company.
2.5 Dispute Resolution. If either party asserts that the other party is in default in
the performance of any obligation hereunder, the complaining party shall notify
the other party of the default and the desired remedy. The notification shall be
written. Representatives of the parties must promptly meet and attempt in
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good faith to negotiate a resolution of the dispute. If the dispute is not
resolved within 30 days of the written notice, the parties may jointly select a
mediator to facilitate further discussion. The parties will equally share the fees
and expenses of this mediator. If a mediator is not used, or if the parties are
unable to resolve the dispute within 30 days after first meeting with the
selected mediator, either party may commence an action in District Court to
interpret and enforce this franchise or for such other relief as may be permitted
by law or equity.
2.6. Continuation of Franchise. If the City and the Company are unable to agree
on the terms of a new franchise by the time this franchise expires, this
franchise will remain in effect until a new franchise is agreed upon, or until 90
days after the City or the Company serves written Notice to the other party of
its intention to allow the franchise to expire. However, in no event shall this
franchise continue for more than one year after expiration of the 20-year term
set forth in Section 2.1.
Section 3. LOCATION, OTHER REGULATIONS.
3.1 Location of Facilities. Electric Facilities shall be located, constructed and
maintained so as not to interfere with the safety and convenience of ordinary
travel along and over Public Ways and so as not to disrupt normal operation of
any City Utility System. previously installed therein. Electric Facilities shall be
located on Public Grounds as determined by the City. Company's
construction, reconstruction, operation, repair, maintenance, location, and
relocation of Electric Facilities shall be subject to permits if required by
separate ordinance and to other reasonable regulations of the City consistent
with authority granted the City to manage its Public Ways and Public Grounds
under state law, to the extent not inconsistent with the terms of this franchise
agreement. Company may abandon underground Electric Facilities in place,
provided at the City’s request, Company will remove abandoned metal or
concrete encased conduit interfering with a City improvement project, but only
to the extent such conduit is uncovered by excavation as part of the City
improvement project.
3.2 Field Locations. Company shall provide field locations for its underground
Electric Facilities within City consistent with the requirements of Minnesota
Statutes, Chapter 216D.
3.3 Street Openings. Company shall not open or disturb any Public Ground or
Public Way for any purpose without first having obtained a permit from the
City, if required by a separate ordinance, for which the City may impose a
reasonable fee subject to Section 9.1 of this Ordinance. Permit conditions
imposed on Company shall not be more burdensome than those imposed on
other utilities for similar facilities or work. Company may, however, open and
disturb any Public Ground or Public Way without permission or permit from the
City where an emergency exists requiring the immediate repair of Electric
Facilities. In such event Company shall notify the City by telephone to the
office designated by the City as soon as practicable. Not later than the
second working day thereafter, Company shall obtain any required permits
and pay any required fees.
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3.4 Restoration. After undertaking any work requiring the opening of any Public
Ground or Public Way, in accordance with Minnesota Rules, part 7819.1100,
Company shall restore the same, including paving and its foundation, to as
good a condition as formerly existed, and shall maintain any paved surface in
good condition for one year thereafter. The work shall be completed as
promptly as weather permits, and if Company shall not promptly perform and
complete the work, remove all dirt, rubbish, equipment and material, and put
the Public Ground or Public Way in the said condition, the City shall have,
after demand to Company to cure and the passage of a reasonable period of
time following the demand, but not to exceed five days, the right to make the
restoration at the expense of Company. Company shall pay to the City the
cost of such work done for or performed by the City. This remedy shall be in
addition to any other remedy available to the City for noncompliance with this
Section 3.4, but the City hereby waives any requirement for Company to post
a construction performance bond, certificate of insurance, letter of credit or
any other form of security or assurance that may be required, under a
separate existing or future ordinance of the City, of a person or entity obtaining
the City’s permission to install, replace or maintain facilities in a Public Way.
3.5 Avoid Damage to Electric Facilities. Nothing in this Ordinance relieves any
person from liability arising out of the failure to exercise reasonable care to
avoid damaging Electric Facilities while performing any activity. The Company
will perform its work within the Public Way or Public Ground in compliance and
in accordance with applicable laws and industry standards for a utility in
similar circumstances.
3.6 Notice of Improvements. The City must give Company reasonable notice of
plans for improvements to Public Grounds or Public Ways where the City has
reason to believe that Electric Facilities may affect or be affected by the
improvement. The notice must contain: (i) the nature and character of the
improvements, (ii) the Public Grounds and Public Ways upon which the
improvements are to be made, (iii) the extent of the improvements, (iv) the
time when the City will start the work, and (v) if more than one Public Ground
or Public Way is involved, the order in which the work is to proceed. The
notice must be given to Company a sufficient length of time in advance of the
actual commencement of the work to permit Company to make any necessary
additions, alterations or repairs to its Electric Facilities.
3.7 Shared Use of Poles. Company shall make space available on its poles or
towers for City fire, water utility, police or other City facilities upon terms and
conditions acceptable to Company whenever such use will not interfere with
the use of such poles or towers by Company, by another electric utility, by a
telephone utility, or by any cable television company or other form of
communication company. In addition, the City shall pay for any added cost
incurred by Company because of such use by City.
3.8 Mapping Information. The Company shall comply with Minnesota Rule part
7819.4100.
Section 4. RELOCATIONS.
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4.1 Relocation of Electric Facilities in Public Ways. If the City determines to
vacate a Public Way for a City improvement project, or at City’s cost to grade,
regrade, or change the line of any Public Way, or construct or reconstruct any
City Utility System in any Public Way, it may order Company to relocate its
Electric Facilities located therein if relocation is reasonably necessary to
accomplish the City’s proposed public improvement. Except as provided in
Section 4.3, Company shall relocate its Electric Facilities at its own expense.
The City shall give Company reasonable notice of plans to vacate for a City
improvement project, or to grade, regrade, or change the line of any Public
Way or to construct or reconstruct any City Utility System. If a relocation is
ordered within five years of a prior relocation of the same Electric Facilities,
which was made at Company expense, the City shall reimburse Company for
non-betterment costs on a time and material basis, provided that if a
subsequent relocation is required because of the extension of a City Utility
System to a previously unserved area, Company may be required to make the
subsequent relocation at its expense. Nothing in this Ordinance requires
Company to relocate, remove, replace or reconstruct at its own expense its
Electric Facilities where such relocation, removal, replacement or
reconstruction is solely for the convenience of the City and is not reasonably
necessary for the construction or reconstruction of a Public Way or City Utility
System or other City improvement. The Company shall comply with Minnesota
Rules, part 7819.3100 and applicable City ordinances consistent with law.
4.2 Relocation of Electric Facilities in Public Ground. City may require Company,
at Company’s expense, to relocate or remove its Electric Facilities from Public
Ground upon a finding by City that the Electric Facilities have become or will
become a substantial impairment to the existing or proposed public use of the
Public Ground.
4.3 Projects with Federal Funding. The City is obligated to pay Company only
for those portions of its relocation costs for which City has received federal
funding specifically allocated for relocation costs in the amount requested by
the Company, which allocated funding the City shall specifically request.
Relocation, removal or rearrangement of any Company Electric Facilities
made necessary because of a federally-aided highway project shall be
governed by the provisions of Minnesota Statutes, Section 161.46, as
supplemented or amended. It is understood that the rights herein granted to
Company are valuable rights.
4.4 No Waiver. The provisions of this franchise apply only to facilities constructed
in reliance on a franchise from the City and shall not be construed to waive or
modify any rights obtained by Company for installations within a Company
right-of-way acquired by easement or prescriptive right before the applicable
Public Ground or Public Way was established, or Company's rights under
state or county permit.
Section 5. TREE TRIMMING.
Company may trim all trees and shrubs in the Public Grounds and
Public Ways of City to the extent Company finds necessary to avoid
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interference with the proper construction, operation, repair and maintenance of
any Electric Facilities installed hereunder, provided that Company shall save
the City harmless from any liability arising therefrom, and subject to permit or
other reasonable regulation by the City.
Section 6. INDEMNIFICATION.
6.1 Indemnity of City. Company shall indemnify, keep and hold the City free and
harmless from any and all liability on account of injury to persons or damage
to property occasioned by the construction, maintenance, repair, inspection,
the issuance of permits, or the operation of the Electric Facilities located in
the Public Grounds and Public Ways. The City shall not be indemnified for
losses or claims occasioned through its own negligence except for losses or
claims arising out of or alleging the City's negligence as to the issuance of
permits for, or inspection of, Company's plans or work.
6.2 Defense of City. In the event a suit is brought against the City under
circumstances where this agreement to indemnify applies, Company at its
sole cost and expense shall defend the City in such suit if written notice
thereof is promptly given to Company within a period wherein Company is not
prejudiced by lack of such notice. If Company is required to indemnify and
defend, it will thereafter have control of such litigation, but Company may not
settle such litigation without the consent of the City, which consent shall not
be unreasonably withheld. This section is not, as to third parties, a waiver of
any defense or immunity otherwise available to the City and Company, in
defending any action on behalf of the City, shall be entitled to assert in any
action every defense or immunity that the City could assert in its own behalf.
This franchise agreement shall not be interpreted to constitute a waiver by
the City of any of its limitations on liability under Minnesota Statutes, Chapter
466.
Section 7. VACATION OF PUBLIC WAYS.
The City shall give Company at least two weeks prior written notice of
a proposed vacation of a Public Way. The City and the Company shall
comply with Minnesota Rules, 7819.3200. Except where required for a City
improvement project, the vacation of any Public Way, after the installation of
Electric Facilities, shall not operate to deprive Company of its rights to
operate and maintain such Electric Facilities, until the reasonable cost of
relocating the same and the loss and expense resulting from such relocation
are first paid to Company. In no case, however, shall City be liable to
Company for failure to specifically preserve a right-of-way under Minnesota
Statutes, Section 160.29.
Section 8. CHANGE IN FORM OF GOVERNMENT.
Any change in the form of government of the City shall not affect the
validity of this Ordinance. Any governmental unit succeeding the City shall,
without the consent of Company, succeed to all of the rights and obligations
of the City provided in this Ordinance.
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Section 9. FRANCHISE FEE.
9.1 Fee Schedule. During the term of the franchise hereby granted, and in lieu of
any permit or other fees being imposed on Company, the City may impose on
Company a franchise fee by collecting the amounts indicated in a Fee
Schedule set forth in a separate ordinance from each customer in the
designated Company Customer Class.
9.2 Separate Ordinance. The franchise fee shall be imposed by a separate
ordinance duly adopted by the City Council, which ordinance shall not be
adopted until at least 90 days after written notice enclosing such proposed
ordinance has been served upon Company by certified mail. The fee shall
not become effective until the beginning of a Company billing month at least
90 days after written notice enclosing such adopted ordinance has been
served upon Company by certified mail. Section 2.5 shall constitute the sole
remedy for solving disputes between Company and the City in regard to the
interpretation of, or enforcement of, the separate ordinance. No action by the
City to implement a separate ordinance will commence until this Ordinance is
effective.
9.3 Terms Defined. For the purpose of this Section 9, the following definitions
apply:
9.3.1 “Customer Class” shall refer to the classes listed on the Fee
Schedule and as defined or determined in Company’s electric tariffs on
file with the Commission.
9.3.2 “Fee Schedule” refers to the Fee Schedule set forth in a
separate ordinance setting forth the various customer classes from
which a franchise fee would be collected if a separate ordinance were
implemented immediately after the effective date of this franchise
agreement. The Fee Schedule in the separate ordinance may include
new Customer Class added by Company to its electric tariffs after the
effective date of this franchise agreement.
9.4 Collection of the Fee. The franchise fee shall be payable quarterly and shall
be based on the amount collected by Company during complete billing
months during the period for which payment is to be made by imposing a
surcharge equal to the designated franchise fee for the applicable customer
classification in all customer billings for electric service in each class. The
payment shall be due the last business day of the month following the period
for which the payment is made. The franchise fee may be changed by
ordinance from time to time; however, each change shall meet the same
notice requirements and not occur more often than annually and no change
shall require a collection from any customer for electric service in excess of
the amounts specifically permitted by this Section 9. The time and manner of
collecting the franchise fee is subject to the approval of the Commission. No
franchise fee shall be payable by Company if Company is legally unable to
first collect an amount equal to the franchise fee from its customers in each
applicable class of customers by imposing a surcharge in Company’s
applicable rates for electric service. Company may pay the City the fee
May 28, 2024
City Council Meeting Minutes
15
based upon the surcharge billed subject to subsequent reductions to account
for uncollectibles, refunds and correction of erroneous billings. Company
agrees to make its records available for inspection by the City at reasonable
times provided that the City and its designated representative agree in writing
not to disclose any information which would indicate the amount paid by any
identifiable customer or customers or any other information regarding
identified customers.
9.5 Equivalent Fee Requirement. The separate ordinance imposing the fee shall
not be effective against Company unless it lawfully imposes and the City
monthly or more often collects a fee or tax of the same or greater equivalent
amount on the receipts from sales of energy within the City by any other
energy supplier, provided that, as to such a supplier, the City has the
authority to require a franchise fee or to impose a tax. The “same or greater
equivalent amount” shall be measured, if practicable, by comparing amounts
collected as a franchise fee from each similar customer, or by comparing, as
to similar customers the percentage of the annual bill represented by the
amount collected for franchise fee purposes. If the Company specifically
consents in writing to a franchise or separate ordinance collecting or failing to
collect a fee from another energy supplier in contravention of this Section 9.5,
the foregoing conditions will be waived to the extent of such written consent.
Section 10. PROVISIONS OF ORDINANCE.
10.1 Severability. Every section, provision, or part of this Ordinance is declared
separate from every other section, provision, or part and if any section,
provision, or part shall be held invalid, it shall not affect any other section,
provision, or part. Where a provision of any other City ordinance conflicts
with the provisions of this Ordinance, the provisions of this Ordinance shall
prevail.
10.2 Limitation on Applicability. This Ordinance constitutes a franchise agreement
between the City and Company as the only parties, and no provision of this
franchise shall in any way inure to the benefit of any third person (including
the public at large) so as to constitute any such person as a third party
beneficiary of the agreement or of any one or more of the terms hereof, or
otherwise give rise to any cause of action in any person not a party hereto.
Section 11. AMENDMENT PROCEDURE.
Either party to this franchise agreement may at any time propose that
the agreement be amended to address a subject of concern and the other
party will consider whether it agrees that the amendment is mutually
appropriate. If an amendment is agreed upon, this Ordinance may be
amended at any time by the City passing a subsequent ordinance declaring
the provisions of the amendment, which amendatory ordinance shall become
effective upon the filing of Company’s written consent thereto with the City
Clerk within 90 days after the date of final passage by the City of the
amendatory ordinance.
Section 12. PREVIOUS FRANCHISES SUPERSEDED.
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City Council Meeting Minutes
16
This franchise supersedes any previous electric franchise granted to
Company or its predecessor.
Seconded by Councilmember Juenemann Ayes – All
The motion passed
Councilmember Juenemann moved to approve the Revised Electric Franchise Fee
Ordinance.
Ordinance 1048
AN ORDINANCE IMPLEMENTING AN ELECTRIC SERVICE FRANCHISE FEE ON
NORTHERN STATES POWER COMPANY, A MINNESOTA CORPORATION, ITS
SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS, FOR PROVIDING ELECTRIC SERVICE WITHIN
THE CITY OF MAPLEWOOD
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MAPLEWOOD DOES ORDAIN:
SECTION 1. The City of Maplewood Municipal Code is hereby amended to include
reference to the following Special Ordinance.
Subd. 1. Purpose. The Maplewood City Council has determined that it is in the best
interest of the City to impose a franchise fee on those public utility companies that provide
electric services within the City of Maplewood.
(a) Pursuant to City Ordinance, a Franchise Agreement between the City of
Maplewood and Northern States Power Company, a Minnesota corporation,
its successors and assigns, the City has the right to impose a franchise fee on
Northern States Power Company, a Minnesota corporation, its successors and
assigns, as set forth in the Northern States Power Company Franchise and in
the fee schedule attached hereto as Schedule A.
Subd. 2. Franchise Fee Statement. A franchise fee is hereby imposed on Northern
States Power Company, a Minnesota Corporation, its successors and assigns, under its
electric franchise in accordance with the schedule attached here to and made a part of this
Ordinance, commencing with the NSPM October, 2024 billing month.
This fee is an account-based fee on each premise and not a meter-based fee. In the
event that an entity covered by this ordinance has more than one meter at a single premise,
but only one account, only one fee shall be assessed to that account. If a premise has two or
more meters being billed at different rates, the Company may have an account for each rate
classification, which will result in more than one franchise fee assessment for electric service
to that premise. If the Company combines the rate classifications into a single account, the
franchise fee assessed to the account will be the largest franchise fee applicable to a single
rate classification for energy delivered to that premise. In the event any entities covered by
this ordinance have more than one premise, each premise (address) shall be subject to the
appropriate fee. In the event a question arises as to the proper fee amount for any premise,
the Company’s manner of billing for energy used at all similar premises in the city will control.
Subd. 3. Payment. The said franchise fee shall be payable to the City in accordance
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City Council Meeting Minutes
17
with the terms set forth in Section 9 of the Franchise.
Subd. 4. Surcharge. The City recognizes that the Minnesota Public Utilities
Commission may allow Company to add a surcharge to customer rates of city residents to
reimburse Company for the cost of the fee.
Subd. 5. Enforcement. Any dispute, including enforcement of a default regarding
this ordinance will be resolved in accordance with Section 2.5 of the Franchise Agreement.
Subd. 6. Effective Date of Franchise Fee. The effective date of this Ordinance shall
be after its publication and ninety (90) days after the sending of written notice enclosing a
copy of this adopted Ordinance to NSPM by certified mail. Collection of the fee shall
commence as provided above.
SCHEDULE A
Franchise Fee Rates:
Electric Utility
The franchise fee shall be in an amount determined by applying the following schedule per
customer premise/per month based on metered service to retail customers within the City:
Class Amount per month
Residential $4.25
Small C & I – Non-Demand $5.50
Small C & I – Demand $30.00
Large C & I $180.00
Public Street Lighting $9.75
Municipal Pumping – Non-Demand $8.25
Municipal Pumping – Demand $10.75
Franchise fees are submitted to the City on a quarterly basis as follows:
January – March collections due by April 30.
April – June collections due by July 31.
July – September collections due by October 31.
October – December collections due by January 31.
Seconded by Councilmember Lee Ayes – All
The motion passed
Councilmember Lee moved to approve the resolution authorizing publication of the Electric
Franchise Ordinance by title and summary. (4 votes).
Resolution 24-05-2320
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING PUBLICATION OF
ORDINANCE NO. 1047 BY TITLE AND SUMMARY
May 28, 2024
City Council Meeting Minutes
18
WHEREAS, the city council of the city of Maplewood has adopted Ordinance No.
1047, an ordinance granting to Northern States Power Company, a Minnesota corporation,
its successors and assigns, permission to construct, operate, repair and maintain in the city
of Maplewood, Minnesota, an electric distribution system and transmission lines, including
necessary poles, lines, fixtures and appurtenances, for the furnishing of electric energy to the
city, its inhabitants, and others, and to use the public grounds and public ways of the city for
such purposes; and
WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes, section 412.191, subd. 4, allows publication by title
and summary in the case of lengthy ordinances or those containing charts or maps; and
WHEREAS, the city council believes that the following summary would clearly inform
the public of the intent and effect of the lengthy ordinance.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the city council of the city of Maplewood
that the city clerk shall cause the following summary of Ordinance No. 1047 to be published
in the city’s official newspaper in lieu of the entire ordinance:
Public Notice
On May 28, 2024, the city council of the city of Maplewood adopted Ordinance No.
1047, an ordinance granting to Northern States Power Company, a Minnesota corporation,
its successors and assigns, permission to construct, operate, repair and maintain in the city
of Maplewood, Minnesota, an electric distribution system and transmission lines, including
necessary poles, lines, fixtures and appurtenances, for the furnishing of electric energy to the
city, its inhabitants, and others, and to use the public grounds and public ways of the city for
such purposes. As the above title suggests, the ordinance grants to Northern States Power
Company, d/b/a Xcel Energy, a franchise to construct, operate, repair and maintain facilities
and equipment for the transmission and distribution of electric energy for public and private
use and to use the public ways and grounds in the city for such purposes. The ordinance
also prescribes certain terms and conditions associated with such activities. This public
notice is intended only to summarize the ordinance. The full text of the ordinance is available
for inspection at Maplewood city hall during regular business hours and has been posted to
the city’s website.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the city council of the city of Maplewood that the city
clerk keep a copy of the ordinance in her office at city hall for public inspection.
Seconded by Councilmember Cave Ayes – All
The motion passed.
Councilmember Cave moved to approve the resolution authorizing publication of the Electric
Franchise Fee Ordinance by title and summary. (4 votes).
Resolution 24-05-2321
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING PUBLICATION OF
ORDINANCE NO. 1048 BY TITLE AND SUMMARY
May 28, 2024
City Council Meeting Minutes
19
WHEREAS, the city council of the city of Maplewood has adopted Ordinance No.
1048, an ordinance implementing an electric service franchise fee on Northern States Power
Company, a Minnesota corporation, its successors and assigns, for providing electric service
within the city of Maplewood; and
WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes, section 412.191, subd. 4, allows publication by title
and summary in the case of lengthy ordinances or those containing charts or maps; and
WHEREAS, the city council believes that the following summary would clearly inform
the public of the intent and effect of the lengthy ordinance.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the city council of the city of Maplewood
that the city clerk shall cause the following summary of Ordinance No.1048 to be published in
the city’s official newspaper in lieu of the entire ordinance:
Public Notice
On May 28, 2024, the city council of the city of Maplewood adopted Ordinance No.
1048, an ordinance implementing an electric service franchise fee on Northern States Power
Company, a Minnesota corporation, its successors and assigns, for providing electric service
within the city of Maplewood. The ordinance increases the city’s electric franchise fees on
Northern States Power Company, the utility which provides electric service within Maplewood
under a franchise agreement with the city. The new rates, effective October 1, 2024, will be
$4.25 per month for electric service for residential customers. Other rate changes apply to
non-residential customers. The city intends to use the revenues raised by the franchise fees
for public improvement projects and other authorized purposes. This public notice is
intended only to summarize the ordinance. The full text of the ordinance, including all rates
imposed thereunder, is available for inspection at Maplewood city hall during regular
business hours and has been posted to the city’s website.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the city council of the city of Maplewood that the city
clerk keep a copy of the ordinance in her office at city hall for public inspection.
Seconded by Councilmember Lee Ayes – All
The motion passed
3. Authorization to Advertise For Bids, 2024 EAB Mitigation Project, City Project 23-
17
Public Works Director Love gave the staff report.
Councilmember Juenemann moved to approve the resolution authorizing the advertisement
for bids for the 2024 EAB Mitigation Project, City Project 23-17.
Resolution 24-05-2322
AUTHORIZATION TO ADVERTISE FOR BIDS
nd
WHEREAS, pursuant to a resolution of the City Council adopted April 22, 2024, that
approved a grant agreement between the City of Maplewood and the Minnesota Department
of Natural Resources for the Shade Tree Program Bonding Grants, 2023-2027,
May 28, 2024
City Council Meeting Minutes
20
AND WHEREAS, plans and specifications for the 2024 EAB Mitigation Project, City
Project 23-17 have been prepared,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MAPLEWOOD, MINNESOTA:
1. The City Clerk or office of the City Engineer shall prepare and cause to be
inserted into the official paper and Finance and Commerce an advertisement for
bids upon the making of such improvement under such plans and specifications.
The advertisement shall be published twice, at least twenty-one days before the
date set for bid opening, shall specify the work to be done, shall state that bids
will be publicly opened electronically via QuestCDN and considered at 10:00 a.m.
st
on the 21 day of June, 2024. Bids shall be accompanied by a certified check or
bid bond, payable to the City of Maplewood, Minnesota for five percent of the
amount of such bid.
3. The City Clerk and City Engineer are hereby authorized and instructed to
receive, open, and read aloud bids received at the time and place herein noted,
and to tabulate the bids received. The City Council will consider the bids, and the
th
award of a contract, at the regular City Council meeting of July 8, 2024.
Seconded by Councilmember Lee Ayes – All
The motion passed.
K. AWARD OF BIDS
None
L. ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Abrams adjourned the meeting at 7:51 p.m.
Andrea Sindt, City Clerk
.
May 28, 2024
City Council Meeting Minutes
21