HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-09-2024 Council PacketCITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS
CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
TUESDAY, APRIL 9, 2024
6:00 PM
6:00 p.m. L
Call to Order/Pledge of Allegiance/Approval of Agenda
Estimated
times
6:00 p.m. II.
Council/Staff Reports
A. Mayor McComber
B. Councilmember Dougherty
C. Councilmember Johnson
D. Councilmember Liljegren
E. Councilmember Runk
F. Staff
• City Administrator
• Chief of Police
• Assistant City Administrator/City Clerk (pg. 3)
6:05 p.m. III. Visitors/Public Comment
This is an opportunity for the public to address the Council with questions or concerns on issues not part of the regular agenda (Please
limit comments to 3 minutes in length).
A. Bayport Fire Department Operational Update — Allen Eisinger
6:10 p.m. IV. Consent Agenda (Roll Call Vote)
A. Approve Bills & Investments
B. Approve City Council Minutes — March 26, 2024 (pg. 5)
C. Adopt Proclamation for April 2024 as Fair Housing Month (pg. 7)
D. Adopt Proclamation for May 2024 as National Cities, Towns and Villages Month
(pg. 11)
E. Approve Updates to the City's Purchasing Policy (pg. 13)
F. Adopt Resolution Approving the Transfer of Public Safety Funds from the General
Fund to the Budgeted Projects Fund (pg. 27)
G. Adopt Resolution Opposing State Preemption of Local Zoning Authority and State
Mandated Zoning Standards (pg. 29)
6:10 p.m. V. Public Hearings
6:10 p.m. VI. Old Business
A. Citywide Residential Street Speed Limit Reduction (pg. 31)
6:25 p.m. VII. New Business
6:25 p.m. VIII. Other Council Items or Announcements
6:25 p.m. IX. Adj ournment
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City of
Oak Park Heights
14168 Oak Park Blvd. N • Oak Park Heights, MN 55082 • Phone (651) 439-4439 • Fax (651) 439-0574
April 2, 2024
Edwin Andera
14935 57th Street N
Oak Park Heights, MN 55082
Dear Mr. Andera:
Thank you for participating in the City's recycling program. As an incentive
to recycle and to increase fire prevention awareness, the City rewards two
residents each month with their choice of an award of a fire extinguisher
and/or smoke detector.
Your residence was checked on Tuesday, April 2, to determine if you had your
recycling bin out with your regular garbage. Your recycling was out and ready
for collection; therefore, you are one of this month's winners. Please contact me
via phone at 439-4439 or email at jpinski@cityofoakparkheights.com to let me
know your choice of award.
On behalf of the Oak Park Heights City Council, thank you for participating in
the City's recycling program.
Congratulations!
Jennifer Pinski
Assistant City Administrator
TREE CITY U.S.A.
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CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS
TUESDAY, MARCH 26, 2424
CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
I. Call to Order/Pledge of Allegiance/Approval of Agenda: Mayor McComber
called the meeting to order at 6.00 p.m. Present: Councilmembers Dougherty,
Johnson, Liljegren, and Runk. Staff present: City Administrator Rife, Police Chief
Hansen, Assistant City Administrator/City Clerk Pinski, and City Attorney
Benson. Absent: Nome.
Councilmember Dougherty, seconded by Councilmember Johnson, moved to
approve the Agenda. Carried 5-0.
II. Counci!/Staff Reports:
A. Mavor McComber: She reported she attended a two-day strategic
planning meeting with the Energy Transition Advisory Committee through
the Department of Employment and Economic Development and she
attended the Xcel Energy quarterly stakeholder meeting. and she would be
attending the National League of Cities Women in '.Municipal Government
meeting.
B. Councslsnember Dougghe_ t : He reported attended the Parks and Trails
Conlniission mcet.ing, the Xcel Energy quarterly stakeholder meeting, and
a ribbon cLitting meeting for Midwest Landscaping asld Excavating.
C. Councilmember Johnson: No report.
D. Councilmember Life ren: No report.
E. Councilmember Runk: He reported he attended the Stillwater City Council
meeting vd)ei,e they recognized Officer Lindsey Paradise with a Medal of
Merit.
F. Staff: City Administrator Rife reported Washington County would be
hosting open houses for the proposed Emergency Housing: Services
building project. He indicated one of the open houses would be at Oak
Park Heights City Hall on April 16 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Police Chief Hansen reported winter parking would be ending March 31.
he also rcported the department was participating in crime mapping
software which was available to the public at w�'��.crimemapping.corn.
He also said they would be conducing interviews for the sergeant position.
Assistant City Administrator/City Clerk Pinski reported that Kelsey
Berger of 5582 Osgood Avenue North was chosen as the recycling award
winner. She also reported clean up day was scheduled for May 18.
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City Council Meeting Minutes
March 26. 2024
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III. Visitors/Public Comment: None
IV. Consent Agenda:
A. Approve Bills & Investments
B. Approve City Council Worksession Notes —March 12, 2024
C. Approve City Council Minutes — March 12, 2024
D. Approve National League of Cities City Summit Registration
E. Approve Resolution Authorization for a Loan Application to the
Minnesota Public Facilities Authority
F. Approve Replacement of 2017 Bobcat Toolcat
G. Approve Proposals from Pearson Brothers and A+ Seal Coating for 2024
Street Seal Coating. Project
H. Approve Proposal from Mauer Company LLC to Replace Swager Park
Fence
L Approve Street Sweeping Contract with St. Croix Sweeping
J. Award the Spring 2024 Boulevard and Park Tree Planting Project to
Hoffman & McNamara Nursery and I-andscape
K. Appoint Taylor Pass to the Parks and Trails Commission through 2026
Councilmember Runk, seconded by Councilmember Liljegren, moved to approve
the Consent Agenda. Roll call vote taken. Carried 5-0.
V. Public Hearinp-s: None
VI. Old Business: None
VII. New Business:
A. Adopt Citv of Oak Park Heights Conflict of Interest Policy: City
Administrator Rife reported a conflict of interest policy was required by
the Economic Development Administration for the grant the City was
awarded for the Well 43 project.
Councilmember Runk, seconded by Councilnicmber Liljegren, moved to
adopt the policy. Roll call vote taken. Carried 5-0.
B. Authorize the City EnLineer to Review the 58`h Street Extension Traffic
Analysis Prepared by SRF Consultin : City Administrator Rife reported
that Washington County and their consulting engineer stated that a traffic
analysis would be pro\-ided to Oak Park Heights and Stillwater. He
recommended the City Council authorize the City Engineer to review the
traffic analysis at a cost not to exceed $1,500.
Councilznember Johnson, seconded by Councilmember Dougherty, moved
to authorize the review. Carred 5-0.
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City Council. Meeting Minutes
March 26, 2024
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VIII. Other Council Items or Announcements: None
IX. Adiourn: Councilmember Runk, seconded by Councilmember Dougherty, moved
to adjourn at 6:14 p.m. Carried 5-0.
Respectfully submitted,
Jennifer Pinski
Assistant City Administrator/City Clerk
Approved as to Content and Form,
Mary McComber
Mayor
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CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS
FAIR HOUSING MONTH PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS The Fair Housing Act, enacted on April 11, 1968, enshrined into federal law the
goal of eliminating racial segregation and ending housing discrimination in the
United States: and
WHEREAS The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color,
religion, sex, familial status, national origin, and disability, and commits
recipients of federal funding to affirmatively further fair housing in their
communities; and
WHEREAS Oak Park Heights is committed to the mission and intent of Congress to provide
fair and equal housing opportunities for all; and
WHEREAS Our social fabric, the economy, health, and environment are strengthened in
diverse, inclusive communities; and
WHEREAS More than fifty years after the passage of the Fair Housing Act, discrimination
persists, and many communities remain segregated; and
WHEREAS Acts of housing discrimination and barriers to equal housing opportunity are
repugnant to a common sense of decency and fairness.
NOW THERLFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of Oak Park Heights does
hereby declare the month of April 2024 as
Fair Housing Month
In Oak Park Heights as an inclusive community committed to fair housing, and to promoting
appropriate activities by private and public entities to provide and advocate for equal housing
opportunities for all residents and prospective residents of Oak Park Heights.
Dated this 9th day of April, 2024
Attest:
Jacob Rife, City Administrator
Mary McComber, Mayor
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CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS
NATIONAL CITIES, TOWNS AND VILLAGES MONTH PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, the National League of Cities was founded in 1924 in Lawrence, Kansas, as the
American Municipal Association by state municipal leagues seeking more coordination and
national representation as cities, towns, and villages expanded rapidly;
WHEREAS, the nonpartisan National League of Cities is the oldest and largest organization
representing municipal governments throughout the United States, representing the interests of
more than 19,000 cities, towns, and villages across the country;
WHEREAS today, the National League of Cities works in partnership with 49 state municipal
leagues across the country to strengthen local leadership, drive innovation, and influence the federal
policies that impact local programs and operations;
WHEREAS, as the voice of cities, towns, and villages in Washington, DC, the National League of
Cities has successfully championed federal legislative solutions that support municipalities and has
worked closely with. Congress and the Executive Branch to educate policymakers on the realities
of local implementation;
WHEREAS, Oak Park Heights is a proud member of the National League of Cities, and has
benefited from the organization's research, technical expertise, federal advocacy and opportunities
to learn from other local governments;
WHEREAS, local governments are the bedrock of American democracy, providing 336 million
residents with the most accountable, responsive, inclusive, ethical, and transpai-ent government in
the world;
WHEREAS, from the nation's smallest villages to its largest cities, America's local governments
have been essential in transforming the United States of America into the greatest, most influential
nation in world history;
WHEREAS, Oak Park Heights was first incorporated in 1959 and is proudly served today by
Mayor Mary McComber and Councilmembers Chuck Dougherty, Carly Johnson, Mike Liljegren,
and Mike Runk and a municipal workforce of 23 dedicated public servants;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that Oak Park Heights hereby proclaims May 2024
as National Cities, Towns, and Villages Month in celebration of America's local governments
and the National League of Cities' historic centennial anniversary.
Dated this 91 day of April, 2024
Attest:
Jacob Rife, City Administrator
Mary McComber, Mayor
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a� Oak Park,%._
G
Date: April 9, 2024
Consent
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Jacob Rife, City Administrator
AGENDA ITEM: Approve Updates to the City's Purchasing Policy
BACKGROUND:
With the assistance of Finance Director Caruso and Finance Consultant Mol, the City has been
reviewing various financial policies and procedures. We completed a review of the purchasing
policy and staff is proposing various updates to the policy. Several updates are being proposed to
ensure we are compatible with State and Federal guidelines.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
• Does action require expenditure of funds? No
ACTION REQUESTED:
Approve Updates to the City's Purchasing Policy
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Purchasing Policy
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PURCHASING POLICY
Section 1. Purchasing Guidelines
1.1 Policy Statement
The City desires that all purchasing of equipment and supplies be conducted in compliance with
Minnesota State Statutes and in a manner that is consistent with ensuring adequate cost
control. The Minnesota Public Purpose Doctrine permits a governmental entity to expend public
funds only when the primary purpose of the expenditure is public and the expenditure relates to
the governmental purposes for which the entity was created. There must also be statutory
authority allowing for the expenditure of such funds and there must be a benefit to the
community. Proper documentation must be maintained by the City to establish that all
expenditures serve a public purpose.
The standards in this policy are minimum standards to ensure fiscal responsibility. Departments
may set more restrictive procedures to meet their own budgetary accountability.
For purchases made under Federal or State grant funded programs, additional restrictions are
identified within the uniform grant guidance regulations (2 CFR 200.318). All federal grant
expenditures must be reasonable, necessary, and adequately documented. All federal grant
expenditures must be deemed to be allowable under specific grant agreements and in
accordance with 2CFR200, subpart E.
1.2 ADA Compliance
The City of Oak Park Heights is subject to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act
(ADA). In general, the City will consider the needs of people with disabilities as it purchases
equipment and configures work and public areas.
1.3 City Purchases of Goods or Contractual Services
City purchases will be made in accordance with the MN Statute 471.345. See guideline
following the policy for guidance.
Section 2. Purchasing Practices
2.1 Ethics / Relations with Vendors
The City of Oak Park Heights holds its employees to the highest ethical standards. Purchases
shall be conducted so they foster public confidence in the integrity of the City's procurement
system, and open and free competition among prospective suppliers. In keeping with this value,
employees should avoid the following practices when making purchases on behalf of the City:
Circumventing competitive bidding requirements.
Examples of this include:
• Splitting purchases so that they can be made through several small purchases.
• Using the emergency procedure process when no true emergency exists.
• Using a `sole source' exemption when competition is available.
Denying one or more vendors the opportunity to bid on a contract when they have no history of
default or failure in performance
Examples of this include:
• Using unreasonably restrictive specifications.
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• Pre -qualifying bidders on a discriminatory basis.
• Removing companies from a bidders list without just cause.
• Requiring unnecessarily high bonding.
Giving favored vendors an unfair advantage.
Example of this include:
• Providing vendors with non-public information regarding their competition's offers in
advance of a bid opening.
• Making information available to favored vendors and not to others.
• Giving un -favored vendors inaccurate or misleading information.
Accepting gifts from vendors.
• Minnesota Statutes §471.895 prohibits government employees from receiving gifts
except where they are included as part of the cost of a product, good, or service
provided (such as a meal provided as part of a conference).
Section 3. Authorization
The City of Oak Park Heights has a decentralized purchasing program where individual
departments are responsible for making their own purchases. There are a few exceptions
including the supplies maintained in the general office supply closet, paper and stationery
products. The Administrative Secretary/Deputy Clerk will assist staff members who need help
with research or purchase of items in cases where staff are not familiar with particular products.
Payment Authorization Process
1. Determine the need for commodities and services.
2. Research the cost of the purchase and determine proper purchasing alternative.
3. Forward request to Department Head or designee for approval.
Department Head determines the appropriate account coding and whether there are
sufficient funds available in that budget line item. exrtaed $1,509 Ge, 1PA01
rpr S-reGI64ed f9F P61F4Ta6e.SeeSer-tion 4 ? Qwirk Ooforonno %`i4619
5. Invoices are forwarded to the Department Head or City Administrator for approval.
6. Department Head or City Administrator forwards invoices to the FinanGe DepaF+mon+
Accountant for coding and input into the accounts payable system.
7. Finance Director reviews all invoices and statements for accuracy and coding and
required approvals.
8. €+naAr_e The Senior Accountant produces checks and check register for review and
approval by the City Administrator or his/her designee and the City Council.
9. Payment is made by the Finance Department.
Section 4. Purchasing Alternatives-Meth—
The
lternativesMeth.,.,..
The Uniform Municipal Contracting Law, Minnesota Statutes Section 471.345 outlines certain
bid and quotation requirements based on the amount of the purchase. In addition, when a
purchase is funded through federal dollars, there are different dollar thresholds for
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bids/quotations. Usual and customary purchases must have sufficient funds available within the
approved department budget.
City purchases will not be divided into smaller amounts for the purpose of avoiding state,
federal, or City procurement requirements that are based on purchase amounts
4.1 Micro Purchases
a. Procurements valued at less than $5,000 can be made on the open market without
obtaining competitive quotations or proposals at Department discretion.
b. Procurements valued more than $5,000 and less than 25,000 ($10,000 for federally
funded) can be made after obtaining at least two (2) quotes.
4.2 Small Purchases
Procurements valued between $25,000 and $175,000 will be considered Small Purchases, and
will be made after obtaining at least two (2) quotes or proposals from qualified sources, in
accordance with City procurement procedures.
4.3 Maior Purchases
Procurements valued at greater than $175,000 will be considered Maior Purchases, and will be
made by publicly soliciting bids or proposals in accordance with City procurement procedures
and as required by Minnesota Statutes 471.345. For Federally funded projects, the value is
higher than the State limit, as such the City will follow the State limit of $175,000 for federally
funded purchases as well.
• A formal sealed bid procedure is required for all purchases in excess of $480,088
$175,000 except professional services. City Council approves all bids and
specifications.
A published notice of bid is required in the official City newspaper at least ten days in
advance of bid opening. The published notice must state where the plans and
specifications can be obtained by bidders and specifically, where the bid opening will be
held. The notice may also be published on the City's official web site or in a recognized
industry trade journal if certain steps are followed:
Minnesota Statute § 331A.03, subd. 3
If a political subdivision designates an alternative method to newspaper notice:
i. The political subdivision must continue to publish solicitations and requests in
the newspaper for six months in addition of the alternative method.
ii. The publication in the newspaper must indicate where to find the designated
alternative method.
iii. Alternative methods of publication must be in substantially the same format
and for the same time period as is required for the newspaper publication.
Minnesota Statute § 331A.02, Subd. 5
2. If, in the normal course of its business, a qualified newspaper maintains a web
site, then as a condition of accepting and publishing public notices, the
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newspaper must agree to post all the notices on its web site during the notice's
full publication period.
• All bid openings are to be administered by the City Administrator and/or the originating
department.
• The preparation of all specifications are to be the responsibility of the City Administrator
and/or the originating department.
• Required authorization for plans and specifications is the responsibility of the City
Administrator and/or the originating department.
• The City Council must formally approve the bid contract.
• The contract is then filed with the Administration Department. Accepted bids for services
and supplies will be retained for a minimum of 10 years. Accepted bids for capital
improvements will be retained permanently. Rejected bids will be retained for one year.
4-2 4.4 Quotes
If a purchase is estimated to exceed $5,000 but not to exceed $489-989 $175,000, the purchase
may be made either by sealed bids or by direct negotiation based upon quotations. If a
purchase is made in this range, staff members are required to obtain at least two written quotes
and the quotations must be kept on file for at least one year. All such quotes must be #eP A ardAd
to the CiRaRGe P' epaFt.mfta t ;nn4h the P FGhasiRg ,BGG HMeRt& will be kept by the department.
4.3 Professional Services Contracts:
The City retains outside professional services in the area of:
Legal Services
Planning Services
Auditing Services
Assessing Services
Engineering Services
The City Council will approve professional service contracts annually
4.4 Emergency
Emergency situations may arise where the normal purchasing process cannot be followed for
the procurement of goods and services. An emergency must be a situation arising suddenly and
unexpectedly which requires speedy action essential to health, safety, and welfare of the
community, and not just an inconvenience.
If an emeraencv Durchase is reauired durina normal business hours. the Finance Deaartment
should be made aware. If an emergency item is required after normal business hours, the
Department Head or their designee on duty may procure the item immediately. Proper receipts
must be sent to the Finance Director within three workina days after the emeraencv. so that the
proper paperwork can be initiated.
4..5 4.7 Request for Proposals (RFP)
RFPs may be used to solicit proposals for professional and/or contractual services. Typical
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information to address in RFPs includes:
• Background and scope of the project
• The project's budget to ensure that the proposals stay within that range.
• Proposal requirements should include adequate information to allow for proper review
and evaluation including:
• Description of firm and qualifications, including any specialized experience related to the
project.
• A list of similar projects the firm has completed.
• Project timetables including: estimate of hours, breakdown of hours by phase, and the
city's expectation for a completion date.
• Designation of a firm principal who will be in charge of the project.
• Statement that either no subcontractors are allowed or that all subcontractors will be
identified and are subject to the City's approval.
• Estimate of cost to provide the service, outline of fee schedule and payment schedule.
• Description of city's selection process.
• City's evaluation criteria, which typically may include:
Quality and thoroughness of the proposal.
Similar past experience and/or expertise.
References
Cost estimate
• The following statement must be included: - "The City reserves the right to reject any
and all proposals, waive all technicalities and accept any proposal deemed to be in the
city's best interest."
• Submittal deadline: date, time, project name, and addressee.
• Statement: "Proposers are solely responsible for delivery of their proposals to the city
before the deadline. Any proposal received after the deadline will not be considered and
will be returned."
• Information about where questions should be directed.
Note: Staff should make sure that all proposers are given the same information.
Attach a copy of the agreement proposed to be used for the project, including the City's
insurance certificate. The agreement includes provisions to which the firm must agree, so it is
important that they see the agreement up front. It is suggested that the RFP be submitted to the
city attorney for review prior to distribution.
4.-6 Leases/Purchases
All lease agreements need approval through the City Administrator, City Council and legal
counsel prior to initiating a lease. Copies of leases need tc be submitted to finance for
ecording in the financial statements.
4-74.9 On -Line Purchases
The following guidelines are recommended for purchasing products over the Internet:
Only purchase from vendors that use secure servers for e-commerce. Most sites will
have a disclaimer, but some do not have the disclaimer language. If in doubt, either send
an e-mail to the vendor or call them.
• When using an account charge card, follow the standard purchasing guidelines that are
used when paying by charge card on the telephone. It is generally safe to use a charge
card on the Internet,h-;-, tbe, t+AFs - 16 e e +ho fire+ i+orr, in +hie ihcon4inn
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4.4 Reverse Auction Purchases
Minnesota Statute § 471.345, subd. 16 authorized a municipality to contract to purchase
supplies, materials and equipment (but not services), using an electronic purchasing process in
which vendors compete to provide the supplies, materials, or equipment at the lowest price in
an open and interactive environment.
4. 1 Reviewing for Contractors under Suspension or Debarment
In all cases the City will review the excluded parties list (https://www.sam.gov), to ensure that
no tentative parties, suspended and/or debarred contractors are contracted with when using
federal or City dollars.
4.12 Joint Purchasing/Cooperative Purchasing Agreements
The City has the authority to enter into Joint Purchasinq or Cooperative Purchasing Agreements
with other governmental units as provided for in Minnesota Statutes. Procurements made
through Joint Purchasing or Cooperative Purchasing Agreements will satisfy the City's
competitive procurement requirements.
City employees are authorized to obtain goods and services using the State of Minnesota
Cooperative Purchasing Venture. When available through the State program, it is not necessary
for City employees to obtain quotes or to competitively bid the goods or services which are
sought. Employees shall be responsible, however, for ensuring that the goods or services are of
a quality sufficient to meet the City's needs and that pricing is competitive.
Minnesota's Cooperative Purchasing Venture (CPV), established by Minn. Stat. � 16C.03,
subd.10, allows eligible entities to purchase goods, certain services, and utilities from contracts
established by the Office of State Procurement (OSP) for Minnesota state agencies. OSP
contracts with vendors to provide goods, services and utilities to state agencies. This program
creates a legal relationship so that eligible governmental entities can use these contracts iust
like state agencies.
The National Joint Powers Alliance (NJPA) is a government -managed, public, national
municipal contracting agency that facilitates the bidding and contracting process on behalf of its
members. The NJPA contracts are solicited, awarded and monitored by a public agency with a
Publicly elected board of directors. As a result, the NJPA offers its members the opportunity to
purchase equipment through nationally leveraged contracts.
Minnesota statute #123A.21 identifies the NJPA as a "Public corporation and agency" with the
specific directive to provide "cooperative purchasing services" to its members. Minnesota
statute #471.345 identifies the NJPA as a "Municipal Agency" and Minnesota Statute #471.59
defines the ability of two government agencies to enter into an agreement to contract in
common through the action of each of the governing bodies. Subd. 10 of that statute expands
on the abilitv to enter into cooaerative aareements.
4.13 Noncompetitive Purchases
Noncompetitive Purchases can be made under the following circumstances:
• When the City Council has declared an emergency, in accordance with State Statute,
City Policies and Procedures.
• When a sole source of the good or service exists and has been verified by City
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Administrator.
• When the procurement is for goods or services not available competitively, such as
utilities, subscriptions, professional dues and memberships, insurance, conference and
seminar registration, permits and licenses, advertisements in publications, taxes,
required federal, state and local fees and charges, etc.
Section 5. Payment
The City of Oak Park Heights uses various processes in making payments for goods and
services.
5.1 Standard Purchase Orders
Purchase orders are used only when required by the vendor to acknowledge the City's request
for goods and services. A copy of the purchase order will be sent to the vendor when requested.
• Obtain purchase order numbers from Finance Department.
• Once the invoice is received and the purchase order is complete, return completed
purchase order with invoice attached and authorization for payment to the Finance
Department.
5.2 Check requests
• Used for processing payment for immediate pay.
• If travel advance is needed, a check request may be processed with submittal of
appropriate documentation, i.e. written request, e-mail, confirmation. Examples of travel
advance — motel reservation, airline ticket.
• Once invoice is received, submit to Finance Department to be filed with check stub and
original request.
5.3 Immediate Payment
The Finance Department policy is for bills to be paid on the accounts payable invoice list. For
certain exceptions, immediate pay may be used under the following guidelines:
• Immediate pay is for payments that need to be made prior to Council meeting approval
date. Such items include getting discounts, avoiding late charges, purchases requiring
payment with order, etc.
• Immediate pay checks will be issued upon one day notice. Exceptions to the one day
notice is for investments and emergency purchases.
• Checks will be issued, mailed, or returned to appropriate department. Requests for
immediate pay may be submitted on a purchase order, check request, or expense
voucher. Return completed documentation and invoice with authorization for payment,
to the Finance Department.
5.4 Blanket Purchase Orders, Charge Accounts, and House Accounts
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The City uses blanket purchase orders, charge accounts, and house accounts for frequently
used vendors. This process requires submission of receipt with an account code and
department approval. All new open accounts must be authorized by the requesting Department
Head and Finance Department.
5.5 Invoices
• Invoices, purchase order, or expense form along with proper authorization must be
returned to the Finance Department to be processed on invoice list.
5.6 Statements
• The Finance Department tracks all statements—reviewing for old invoices or credits.
The Finance Department matches invoices to the statement.
• All statements are to be mailed directly to the Finance Department.
5.7 Account Coding
All requests for payment including invoices, check request, purchase order, or expense form
must have an eleven digit code to process payment. The Department Head will in,-;^a+o the
code the invoices with assistance from the Finance Department if need.
Refer to department budget for reference of line item code.
Helpful hints for completing payment process:
• Eleven digit code — 101 (fund) 40000 (department) 303 (object -office supplies)
• Description - specific description of purchase.
• Invoice containing vendor name and address
5.8 Petty Cash
• Finance Director shall be the custodian of the petty cash.
• Petty cash shall not exceed $100.00
• Used for reimbursement to employees for items $20 or less for expenditures made on
behalf of the City.
• Receipt and/or expense form must be submitted with proper departmental authorization
obtained prior to reimbursement.
5.9 Purchase Card Use
Employees may use their City purchase card for purchases where vendors accept purchase
cards. When using City purchase cards the employee must adhere to the City's Purchase Card
Policy. Purchases made using a City purchase card must still follow the City's Purchasing
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Policy as described within this document.
6.0 Payment Processing
• Invoices, check request, purchase orders or expense forms must be submitted to the
finance department.
• Receipts must be submitted with expense forms.
• Immediate pays are due to the finance department at least one day in advance of the
payment day.
• Department directors must have fund and department code to process payment. Refer
to department budget line item codes for proper coding.
• All statements must be sent to the finance department.
• Blank check stock is to be maintained in a secure location.
Checks may not be made out to cash or bearer
• The Senior Accountant shall prepare checks after thoroughly reviewing supporting
documentation and review by the Finance Director. The Mayor and City Administrator
signatures are required on all checks. The Finance Director is authorized to sign when
the City Administrator is absent or unable to sign.
• Review of check sequence is to be conducted by the Finance Director as part of the
bank reconciliation process.
• Void checks are stamped void and maintained in the Bank Statement file
6.1 Electronic Funds Transfer
Electronic Funds Transfer may be required in some cases to complete a business transaction.
The funds are transferred electronically from the parties bank accounts. Some instances may
include transactions with the State of Minnesota, a federal agency, another local government or
investment transactions. These transactions need to follow the same guidelines for payment
processing in Section 5.9.
6.2 Expense Reimbursement
Expense forms are required for reimbursement to employees of city -related expenses on a
monthly basis. If larger expenses are incurred, more than one voucher may be reimbursed in
one month. All expense forms must contain proper account codes, department approval, and
receipts must be attached where applicable.
Section 6. Capital Outlay and Fixed Assets
7.1 Capitalization Threshold
Capital outlay purchases are for items costing more than $5,000, are a tangible asset, and have
a life expectancy of more than one year. These items must be included in each department
budget. It should be noted that sales tax must be included as a cost of the item purchased
Page 22 of 36
-9-
when determining if the purchase is a capital outlay item
If the individual purchase is greater than $5,000 the item is a capital outlay purchase and now
should become a recorded fixed asset. The amount to record for that fixed asset would be any
charge "to place the asset in its intended location and condition for use." For example if the City
were to purchase a street vehicle, all of the following would be considered part of that asset: the
vehicle, warning lights, decals, sales tax, licensing, and any other costs to put the asset into its
usable condition. Like items that are used together, for example — meeting room chairs, that are
used together.
Capital outlay purchases less than $5,000 may be inventory assets. (see VII- Fixed Assets)
Example of
inventory assets — computers, printers, furniture, calculators, cameras.
7.2 Acquisition
When a fixed asset or inventory asset is purchased, a fixed asset form needs to be filled out by
the department making the purchase. The forms are kept in the finance department. The form
should be completed when the entire cost of the asset can be supported by vendor invoices.
The total of these vendor invoices should be the amount recorded for that asset. It should also
be noted that all acquisitions should follow the city's Fixed Asset Policy capital replacement
schedule when applicable.
7.3 Tracking and Transfer
Once the asset is recorded on the City's financial accounting system, it is the responsibility of
the assigned department to notify the Finance Department of any assets that have been
transferred to a different department. This needs to be done by filling out a fixed asset form with
the required information. In addition, at the end of the year, a physical count of all fixed assets
and inventory assets will need to be done by each department assigned assets. This count will
be done at or near the end of the calendar year. Each department will be provided a list of
assigned assets by the finance department. The count will then be made by the department with
any discrepancies noted on the list provided.
7.4 Deletion or Disposal of Fixed Assets
When an asset is sold or disposed of the assigned department must complete a fixed asset
form with the required information in order for the finance department to remove the asset from
the financial accounting system. This includes items that are disposed of with no sale or trade
value. Once again disposals should follow the capital replacement policy of the city.
Section 7. Disposal of Surplus Property
8.1 Auction
The City disposes of surplus equipment through public sale in accordance with council policy.
Throughout the year the City collects items to be sold at public auction and sends them to an
auctioneer with a description and number of items to be sold, and makes arrangements for
those items to be transported.
The auction house will forward a tabulation of the bids received along with payment. The
information is reviewed by the department directors and then the payment is forwarded to the
finance department.
Page 23 of 36
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A fixed asset removal form must be filled out when an item sold at auction was listed on the
fixed asset system.
8.2 Electronic Sales
Minnesota Statute § 471.345, subd. 17 authorizes a municipality to contract to sell supplies,
materials, and equipment which is surplus, obsolete, or used using an electronic selling process
in which purchasers compete to purchase the supplies, materials, or equipment at the highest
purchase price in an open and interactive environment.
8.3 Computer Equipment
When a piece of computer equipment has reached the end of its useful life with the City it will be
cleaned of all data and may be disposed of. Certificates of disposal shall be obtained from the
vendor responsible for cleaning the drives of the computers prior to disposal.ine-A-f t"ti
fG"GWORg ways:
Adopted by the City Council: September 13, 204 April 8, 2024
Quick Reference Guide
Value of Purchase
Quotations Needed
Payment Request Options
Approvals Needed Prior
to Purchasing
Less than $100
None
Petty Cash
Department
Yes
Check Request
City Administrator
No
City Council
No
$100-$5,000
Departmental
Check Request
Department
Yes
Discretion
City Administrator
No
City Council
No
$5,001-$25,000
Two Written Quotes
Check Request
Department
Yes
Administrator
City Administrator
Yes
Discretion
City Council
No
$25,001-$100,000
Two Written Quotes
Check Request
Department
Yes
$175,000
or RFP's or Sealed
City Administrator
Yes
Bids
City Council
No
Greater than -
Sealed Bids
Check Request
Department
Yes
V 80-800
City Administrator
Yes
$175,000
City Council
Yes
Page 24 of 36
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Notes: If a cooperative purchasing agreement is in place, quotations are not needed.
Page 25 of 36
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Page 26 of 36
a� Oak Park,%._
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Date: April 9, 2024
Consent
TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Finance — Betty Caruso
AGENDA ITEM: Resolution Approving the Transfer of Public Safety Funds From The General
Fund to The Budgeted Projects Fund
BACKGROUND:
In December 2023, the City received $211,362 from the State to be used for Public Safety
expenditures. Chief Steve Hansen has outlined the uses of the funds within the guidelines from the
state and the funds are expected to be spent over multi -years, estimated 2023-2025.
In order to track the multiyear expenditures and the possibility that the state may require reporting
of the uses, it would be best to remove the funds from the General Fund and transfer them to the
Budgeted Projects Fund.
In 2023, the City spent $12,131 of the Public Safety Funds towards the Fire Study. The remaining
balance of the funds as of December 31, 2023 was $199,231.
Attached is a resolution that would allow the transfer of the remaining public safety funds and
amend the budget to reflect an increase in the General Fund transfer out. This is a transfer of the
December 31, 2023 Public Safety Committed Fund Balance.
The Finance Department recommends approval amendment and transfer of Public Safety Funds.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
• DOES ACTION REQUIRE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS? No
• IF YES, TOTAL COST:
• BUDGET LINE ITEM: 101-44444-920 Transfers Out
• BUDGET AMOUNT: Original Budget $2,065,500 Amended to $$2,264,731
• WITHIN BUDGET? No,(A transfer of committed fund balance.)
ACTION REQUESTED:
Approve the Resolution Approving the Transfer of Public Safety Funds.
ATTACHMENTS:
Resolution
Page 27 of 36
RESOLUTION 24-04-14
CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS
WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA
A RESOLUTION APPROVING TRANSFER OF PUBLIC SAFETY FUNDS FROM THE
GENERAL FUND TO THE BUDGETED PROJECTS FUND
WHEREAS, In December 2023, the State of Minnesota distributed a one-time public safety
aid of $211,362 to the City which is limited to expenditures to provide public safety;
WHEREAS, the funds have been preliminary budgeted to be used for various public safety
expenditures over a multiyear period;
WHEARAS, the tracking of the expenditures and designation of remaining funds will be
required to be in compliance with the restrictions of the funds as imposed by the state;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council for the City of Oak Park
Heights to approve amending the 2024 General Fund - Transfer Out Budget and transfer the
remaining amount of $199,231of Public Safety Funds from the General Fund to the Budgeted
Projects Fund for the purpose of tracking the use of the funds.
Passed by the City Council for the City of Oak Park Heights this 9th day of April 2024.
Mary McComber, Mayor
Attest:
Jacob Rife, City Administrator
Page 28 of 36
RESOLUTION NO. 24 -
RESOLUTION OPPOSING STATE PREEMPTION OF LOCAL ZONING
AUTHORITY AND STATE MANDATED ZONING STANDARDS
WHEREAS, a series of legislative bills, including HF 4009, HF 4010, HF 3168, HF 2235,
SF 3964, SF 3303, SF 3080 and SF 3980, among others and hereinafter referred to
as "the Bills", proposes to preempt local zoning authority to direct the development of
housing by mandating broad and blunt State zoning standards for all cities in the
metropolitan area, including Oak Park Heights, and many cities in greater Minnesota; and
WHEREAS, the Bills remove resident participation in the democratic process by
imposing administrative approval of significant subdivision and development
applications and thereby eliminating the ability of residents to petition their local or any
elected officials in a public forum regarding the impacts of an application on them or
their community; and
WHEREAS, land development has significant and wide-ranging implications on the local
and regional environment, transportation facilities, public and private utilities, schools, and
public safety operations, among many other systems; and
WHEREAS, the development standards mandated by the Bills are unreasonable,
impractical, and fail to comprehensively consider the environmental, social, and
economic impacts of its mandates; and
WHEREAS, Oak Park Heights supports providing a range of housing options for people
of all incomes and at all stages of life; and
WHEREAS, the City of Oak Park Heights recognizes that local control and public input
are critical democratic attributes that should not be infringed upon; and
WHEREAS, zoning decisions are hyper -local and cities engage their residents to develop
unique and innovative development and infrastructure that reflect local attributes, values,
conditions, and goals, as well as comprehensively consider and plan for infrastructure
investments to support planned and managed development; and
WHEREAS, the Oak Park Heights City Council finds that the broad and blunt statutory
requirements in the Bill fail to consider or address such development and public
improvement patterns, and if imposed, will result in unintended and negative outcomes for
residents; and
WHEREAS, the Oak Park Heights City Council finds that no analysis has been conducted
to understand how the Bills' mandates will impact the environment, transportation facilities,
public and private utilities, schools, local government finances, and public safety
operations; and
Page 29 of 36
WHEREAS, the Oak Park Heights City Council rinds the Bills infringe on the
democratic rights ofresidents to participate in decisions that directly impact their
properties, neighborhood, and quality of life; and
WHEREAS, the Oak Park Heights City Council rinds the Bills infringe upon resident
input and engagement which is crucial to the democratic process, and where resident
access to government happens most frequently and effectively at the local level; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS, that the City of Oak Park Heights opposes the Bills,
any future versions ofthe Bills, and any bills which preempt a local unit of government's
decision-making authority, eliminates resident participation in the democratic process,
and imposes State mandated zoning standards.
This resolution was adopted by the City Council of the City of Oak Park Heights on the
day of April, 2024.
Mary McComber, Mayor
ATTEST:
Jacob Rife, City Administrator
Page 30 of 36
a� Oak Park,%._
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TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Jennifer Pinski, Assistant City Administrator
AGENDA ITEM: Citywide Residential Speed Limit Reduction
Date: April 9, 2024
Old Business
BACKGROUND:
At the September 26, 2023 City Council meeting, the Council requested that staff look into the cost
and the process to reduce the residential speed limit to 25MPH citywide. It was presented to the
City Council at the February 13, 2024 Worksession that the process would require an Ordinance
Amendment and an expenditure of approximately $6,500 for signage.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
• DOES ACTION REQUIRE EXPENDITURE OF FUNDS? Yes
• IF YES, TOTAL COST: Approximately $6,500
• BUDGET LINE ITEM: 101-42010-313 Street Signs
BUDGET AMOUNT: $6,500
• WITHIN BUDGET? Yes
ACTION REQUESTED:
Should the City Council desire to move forward with a Citywide residential speed limit reduction, the
following steps would need to take place:
1. Approve the amendment to City Ordinance 1101
2. Approve Ordinance 2024-1101-01 for publication
3. Authorize the expenditure for the replacement of signs
ATTACHMENTS:
Red -lined Ordinance 1101
Ordinance Amendment 2024-1101-01
Page 31 of 36
1101
REGULATION OF MOTOR VEHICLES
AN ORDINANCE REGULATING THE OPERATION OF MOTOR VEHICLES UPON THE
STREETS AND HIGHWAYS OF THE CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS, WASHINGTON
COUNTY, MINNESOTA, AND PROVIDING FOR PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION THEREOF.
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS, WASHINGTON COUNTY,
MINNESOTA, DOES ORDAIN:
1101.01 Regulation of Operation.
Except for Sections 169.02, 169.10, 169.11, and 169.66, Minnesota Statutes 1967,
Chapter 169, known as the Highway Traffic Regulation Act as amended by the laws
of 1976 is hereby adopted as the Traffic Regulation Ordinance of the City of Oak
Park Heights, Washington County, Minnesota. Every provision contained in the said
statute is hereby adopted and made a part of this Ordinance by reference as if fully
set forth herein.
1101.02 Speed Regulations.
No vehicle shall be driven thereon at a speed in excess of dirt 94twent -five 25
miles per hour on any street on which a different speed has not been established by
the Commissioner of Highways under Minnesota Statutes, § 169.14. On any street
where a different speed zone has been so established, and signs have been posted
calling attention to such zone, no vehicles shall be driven in the City of Oak Park
Heights at a speed greater than that indicated on such signs.
1101.03 Parking Regulations.
A. No vehicle shall be parked on any street for the purpose of displaying it for
sale.
B. There is hereby established a district to be known as the congested district
within which the rules set forth in this section shall be in force. The
congested district shall be designated by resolution of the City Council from
time to time.
C. The Chief of Police may establish "No Truck Parking" zones in the congested
district and shall mark by appropriate signs any zones so established. Such
zones shall be established in the congested district where heavy traffic by
commercial vehicles or other traffic congestion makes parking by
commercial vehicles a hazard to the safety of vehicles or pedestrians. No
person shall park a commercial vehicle of more than one ton capacity
between 8 o'clock a.m. and 6 o'clock p.m. on any week day upon any street in
Page 32 of 36
any "No Truck Parking" zone, but parking of such vehicles for a period of not
more than thirty (30) minutes shall be pennitted in such zone for the purpose
of having access to abutting property when such access cannot conveniently
be secured from an alley or from a side street where truck parking is not so
restricted.
D. The Chief of Police may designate certain blocks within the congested
district as thirty- (30) minute, one- (1) hour or two- (2) hour limited parking
zones and shall mark by appropriate signs any zones so established. Such.
zones shall be established in the congested district wherever necessary for the
convenience of the public or to minimize traffic hazards and to preserve a
free flow of traffic. No person shall park any vehicle in any limited parking
zone between the hours of 8 o'clock a.m. and 6 o'clock p.m. of any week day
for a longer period than is specified on the signs marking such zone.
E. The Chief of Police may establish in each block in the congested districts one
or more loading zones and shall mark by appropriate signs any zone so
established. Such zones shall be located at places most convenient for the
use of the public with regard to traffic conditions in the block. leo person
shall, between the hours of 8 o'clock a.m. and 6 o'clock p.m. of any week
day, park any vehicle in any loading zone except for the purpose of receiving
or discharging passengers or freight and then only for a period no longer than
is necessary for the discharge or receipt of such passengers or freight.
F. No person shall turn a vehicle on any street in the congested district so as to
reverse its direction.
G. The Chief of Police may, whenever necessary to preserve a free flow of
traffic or to prevent accidents, designate any intersection within the
congested district as one where the turning of vehicles to the left or to the
right, or both, is to be restricted and shall mark by appropriate signs any
intersection so designated; but no intersection on a trunk highway shall be so
designated until the consent of the State Commissioner of Highways to such
designation is obtained. No person shall turn a vehicle at any such
intersection contrary to the directions on such signs.
H. Winter Parking Prohibition.
Between the 1 st day of November and the 31 st day of March of the following
year, no motor vehicle shall be left standing or parked on the streets of the
City of Oak Park Heights during the hours of 1:00 o'clock a.m. and 6:00 a.m.
Any vehicle which shall be left parked or standing in violation of the
provisions hereof shall be removed without notice to the owner or operator
by the Oak Park heights Police Dept. Or persons employed by them with
said
N
Page 33 of 36
vehicle being stored in any appropriate place. All necessary costs and
expenses of towing, removing, and storing of such vehicles shall first be paid
by the person claiming the vehicle bet before the release of same.
1101.04 Through Streets.
Every driver of a vehicle shall bring his vehicle to a full stop before entering any
through street or stop intersection properly designated and posted as such. Through
streets and stop intersections shall be designated by resolution of the City Council
from time to time.
1101.05 Equipment - Use of.
No person shall drive or operate a motor vehicle on any street within the City, unless
such motor vehicle is equipped with amuffler in good working order and in constant
operation to prevent excessive or unusual noise. It shall be unlawful to use a
"muffler cut-out" on any motor vehicle upon any such street.
1101.06 Jumping Rides.
No person shall ride in or jump into or upon any vehicle without the consent of the
driver; and no person shall, when riding, allow any part of the body to project beyond
the limits of any motor vehicle, except when signaling as required by law, nor shall
any person board or alight from, nor hang onto any motor vehicle, when such motor
vehicle is in motion. This provision shall not apply to any person whose
employment makes it necessary to ride in or on a vehicle otherwise than herein
provided, when engaged in the necessary duties of such employment.
1101.07 Emergency Vehicles.
The speed limitations of this Ordinance shall not apply to vehicles when operated
with due regard for safety, under the direction of peace officers in the chase or
apprehension of violators of the law or persons charged with or suspected of any
such violation, or to fire departments or fire patrol vehicles when traveling in
response to a fire alarm, or to public ambulances in emergency use or service.
1101.08 Penalty.
Any person convicted of violating any of the provisions of this Ordinance shall be
guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be punished by a fine not to exceed One Thousand
Dollars ($1,000.00) or imprisonment not to exceed ninety (90) days or both; but if a
minimum fine or imprisonment is prescribed by the State Highway Traffic Act for an
offense, such penalty shall apply to a person convicted of the same offense under this
Ordinance.
Amended: Section 1101.08. Passed and adopted October 23, 2007.
Section 1 101.02. Passed and adopted April 9, 2024.
Page 34 of 36
CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS
WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA
ORDINANCE NO. 2024-1101-01
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 1101.02 OF
CHAPTER 1101 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE
CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS RELATING TO SPEED REGULATIONS
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS, WASHINGTON COUNTY,
MINNESOTA, DOES ORDAIN:
Section 1. Anjendmcnt. That Section 1101.02 of Chapter 1101 of the Code of
Ordinances of the City of Oak Park Heights is hereby amended to delete "thirty (30)" and replace
with "twenty-five (25)" in the first sentence, relating to miles per hour.
Section 2. Effective Date. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and
after its passage and publication according to law.
Passed by the City Council of the City of Oak Park Heights, Washington County,
Minnesota, on this 0 day of April, 2024.
CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS
Mary McComber, Mayor
Attest:
Jacob Rife, City Administrator
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