Happy New Year

I want to wish everyone a happy New Year. Please be safe this weekend and take special care if drinking is part of your celebration. Read this Isanti County News Story about the Sober Cab program. http://www.isanticountynews.com/2005/december/14drunk.html


If you drink do not drive.

Merry Christmas

I want to wish everyone a safe and Merry Christmas.

Bad E-mail

I had a bad e-mail address link on the Blog. My correct e-mail is george.wimmer@genesiswireless.us

December 20th Council Update

The City Council tonight discussed a number of different issues. I will comment on the Central Business District (CBD), school speed zones and the final city budget.

The final Public Hearing was held tonight regarding the CBD Revitalization. The City Council voted unanimously to create the Tax Increment Financing District No. 9. This financial tool will help bring a rebirth of our Main Street businesses. It is important to not forget about Main Street as we develop east of 65.

The Council voted to pass three separate school speed zones. These zones will go into effect when all levels of government give their approval. The zones include the Middle School, Elementary School and the new Intermediate School. The speeds will be reduced to 20 m/h during specified times Monday through Friday. I hope these zones will reduce accidents and give drivers further warnings that they are driving in the presence of children.

The 2006 City Budget was passed tonight on a 3-2 vote. I voted against this budget. We have a budget that includes over 30% of new spending. This includes the infamous $54,000 Administrative Assistant.

I once again argued for an addition of a Police Officer starting in July of 2006. This officer would start just as the new school east of 65 would start operations. This would also coincide with the residential and commercial development. Isanti has added only 2 new police positions in over a decade. This decade has seen an explosion of residential growth in the city. I shared the following statistics from the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension with the Council comparing 2004 to 2003. Isanti County Population increased by 7%, Serious crime had a 22% increase. Vehicle theft was up 56%, Burglary increased 66% and Narcotics by 24%.

This is just a one year change. When the 2005 numbers are in I will share those with you. Isanti is expecting significant commercial growth in 2006. This adds a new dimension to policing. Our Police Department needs more help. We can not continue to expect top level protection when the Council decides an Administrative Assistant is more important than a safe city. Serious crime is on the rise. The decision not to include a new officer in this budget means 2007 is the earliest we can address this error of judgement. I asked Mayor Apitz, Council Members Johnson and Larson to consider these statistics before they approved the final budget. These three however preferred an administrative assistant to the needed police officer.

Housing Slow Down?

Read this story, http://www.kare11.com/news/news_article.aspx?storyid=114051. This is more evidence we need to be careful in our budgeting process. There is a housing slowdown. We do not yet know how this will effect Minnesota, Isanti County or the City of Isanti. There has been a trickle of these reports in the last few months. If the housing industry slows in the county and city, property tax payers will be hurt. There are a lot of unknowns, this is why we need to be more conservative in our spending.

2006 Final Budget

The December 20th City Council meting will be the last time to discuss the 2006 budget. The positive includes a 7.81% levy rate reduction.

The negatives include a 30.42% explosion of spending. This is made possible by a 26% increase of Local Government Aid from the state, a 75% increase in development fees, and the increase in new homes.

The funds received from the new development and the state is “new” revenue. This revenue does however have a down side when every cent gets spent. This budget should have a greater property tax decrease. This decrease could then be used to help offset the 60% increase in the sewer and water rates. We need to understand that no matter if a cost is called a fee or a tax it comes from the same wallet. As many property tax payers are aware there is also what I like to call the hidden tax. This occurs when your home is valued higher and higher every year. You property tax rates may stay the same or be lowered but the total you pay could increase with higher valuations.

We are riding on a 5 to 10 year wave of rapid residential growth. This started for Isanti in 2001. We have perhaps 5 to 6 years left. If we continue spending at this rate Isanti will have huge structural budget problems in the years to come. Once a government entity gets use to spending it is nearly impossible to cut back.

We are adding unnecessary staff to the 2006 budget. I have continually argued against the $54,000 Administrative position to no avail. It does not appear there will be enough votes to improve this budget any further. I am proud of the influence I have had to this point but there is much yet to do.

The one area we desperately need a new position is the Police Department. Today we see another article in the Star discussing the Methamphetamine problems we face as a community. Our police department will have a 3 year period of no new officers. The Isanti budget has seen a total 47% increase during this period. Isanti has nearly doubled in the last 5 years. We receive tremendous work from our police force. We must stop over taxing our officers. The East 65 expansion and new school will add significant policing pressures on a force that is already over worked. We need to be serious about police protection.

The New City Hall cost went from an estimated 1.2 million cost including 1 million construction cost to a total nearing and possibly exceeding 1.6 million. This is a $400,000 cost overrun. We now have a request for even more expenditures. This has to finally stop.

I will continue my campaign in 2006 to bring our spending growth under control. I can not vote for this budget as it is currently written. I will fight for further property tax reductions and spending reductions in the next budget cycle.

I have already presented a reform measure for future development, the impact list. This is explained in the December Planning Commission entry. We need to have a system to track maintenance cost for city equipment. This can be used to evaluate the need to purchase new equipment and determine the life expectancy of current equipment. This tool can then be used for long term budgeting and planning. I will be detailing more of these tools in the months to come.
We have made some progress but the reform we started this year has just begun. Please atend this city council meeting.

December Planning Commission Update

The Planning Commission took an important first step in the Central Business District Revitalization Plan. We passed a resolution creating a Tax Increment Financing District for the CBD. I am excited about this process. This will direct resources to a vital business sector of Isanti. Main Street is the heart and soul of Isanti. Let’s keep working together to revitalize this city treasure.

The enforcement of the sign ordinance was discussed last night. I made my position clear that we have three phases in this process. First all businesses including the Municipal Liquor store must have the existing ordinance enforced equally. Secondly, I have requested city staff meet with concerned business owners to discuss updating and reforming this ordinance. Lastly the Planning Commission will need to review and make any necessary changes to ensure our business signage will balance the need to market the Isanti business community and our desire to have an attractive city.

The Planning Commission has been struggling to create an exotic animal ordinance. I would like to hear from the public what animals are currently in the city and what is considered exotic. We seem to agree that tigers and bears and should not be allowed in city limits. The issue we are concerned about is snakes and other exotics that have been banned by other model ordinances, but many people own. This topic will again be discussed at the next Planning Commission meeting.

We received an update on CITAC and I shared my concern that we need more Isanti City residents working on this issue. I also stated my great appreciation for the work that has been completed and gave my support to the ongoing effort fro long range transportation planning. This is not the sexiest issue but will have one of the greatest impacts on the development of Isanti County for Generations to come. I will be writing more specifically about CITAC in the weeks and months to come.

The last item I wish to discuss is my impact list to be reviewed when new residential or commercial development occurs. This list includes:

Road construction and maintenance cost
Traffic impact
Water capacity
Sewer capacity
Police protection
Fire protection
City staff time
Park and trail maintenance

This list will drive the creation of planning tools to calculate the impact of development. These planning tools will then dove tail into the short and long range budget and planning process. These tools will bring clear focus to the issues both positive and negative to our Rapid Residential Growth. This list will ensure that future Planning Commision Members, Council Members and Isanti Citizens will know the impact of our planning decisions. Together we are making a difference. I will keep you updated on the progress of these planning tools.

Planning Commission 12/13/05

The Planning Commission will be discussing CITAC, Sign Ordinance Enforcement, Central Business District, Exotic Animal Ordinance, Comprehensive Plan and Tier One ordinance regulation. Woodland and Anlauf will also be presenting plats for approval. This will be a busy and important night. I hope all concerned Citizens will come to this meeting.

School Speed Zones

The Council tabled action on the request for 20 m/h speed zones on County 5. We all seemed to agree to have the zones but wanted cleaner language and more information from the school on when the speed zones would be enforced. I also want to know the hours covered. This is important to train our police force and educated our citizens.

Many school days can run from early morning until late at night with school activities. We also have School for all Seasons. Many residents are not aware of a the year round classes. Another topic of concern is the new school east of highway 65. We wanted to have an all inclusive answer to the school zones. We will discuss this at the next Council meeting.

CITAC

CITAC was pulled from the Councils agenda last night. This allows the Planning comission to do its due diligence. Please read my past post, http://georgewimmer.blogspot.com/2005/12/december-6th-council-meeting.html, for more information.

I have requested all meeting minutes and work papers from CITAC. This will allow the Planning Commission to make an informed decision.

December 6th Council Meeting Update

Tonight’s City Council meeting covered the Fire District Agreement, Central Business District Public Hearing, Council Action on the possible litigation from Clark Construction and a gift from the Cambridge City Council.

I would like to thank the Cambridge City Council for their gift of an Atomic Clock for our new Council Chamber. They also extended their congratulations to Don Lorsung as Isanti’s new City Administrator. This shows the desire by both cities to work together.

We received an update on the progress of the Central Business District. The CBD is making excellent progress. There will be another public hear at the December 20th City Council meeting. After this public hearing Council will be asked to make the appropriate change in our TIF districts to allow for funding of the CBD.

The Council met in closed session to discuss the possible legal action from Clark Construction. This portion of the meeting is not open to the public and therefore I can not discuss it. After our closed door discussionthe meeting was reopened to the public, we voted on a compromise solution to the problem. We passed the preliminary plat with the following restriction. There can not be a structure larger than a twin home in this development. I did not want to have 4 or 8 unit buildings in this single family residential area. This is not ideal but solves the major issue of the rezoning of this area. Please reference my previous Blog posting for more details, http://georgewimmer.blogspot.com/2005/11/november-15th-council-meeting-update.html.

The last item is the proposed Fire District Agreement. As stated in my posting, http://georgewimmer.blogspot.com/2005/11/fire-district-update.html, I am opposed to the 1 vote per entity. Much of the discussion revolved around the personal relationships involved in setting up this agreement. This was used to stress that the City of Isanti has nothing to worry about regarding the expenditures of funds. This is a poor basis for a legal contract that must stand the test of time. The Townships and Isanti representation will change over time. I still strongly believe that a weighted vote is the only fair way to represent the interest of each Township and the City of Isanti. I was the only one that voted for this change.

December 6th Council Meeting

The Isanti City Council will be discussing the proposed Fire District and CITAC’s request for Council support asking the County to establish a Transportation Planning Entity.

I have detailed my position on the Fire District and will continue this discussion at Council. I direct you to my Fire District Blog entry.

The request of support for CITAC (Cambridge Isanti Transportation Action Council) is another issue. CITAC was created to encourage cooperation throughtout Isanti County. I believe this could very well be a good idea. The problem is that this did not come before the Planning Commission. The Planning Commission is the appropriate body to review and then recommend action to the Council. I do not want to see the City of Isanti give away more of its Authority. The Planning Commission is charged with making recommendations for the “planning” of Isanti. I will be asking why this did not go through the proper channels. This issue came before the Council in a “Last Minute” fashion once before. The Planning Commission and the full City Council should be given an appropriate amount of time to investigate this group's recommendations and their impact on the City of Isanti. We can not continue to take global actions in a snap decision manner.

The last item I want to discuss is the Central Business District. This is the Main Street area Revitalization Project. I am excited to be a part of this process. This Project will provide some of the tools to rebuild a thriving Main Street Business District. I will continue to focus attention and resources to revitalize this important Isanti Business Community.

I as always encourage everyone possible to attend City Council.

Comp Plan Kickoff and City Hall Tour

There will be a tour of City Hall on December 8th at 6:30pm. This will be followed at 7pm by a kicked off of the New Comprehensive Plan Process. Refreshments will be provided. I hope everyone that can make this important meeting will be there. This new Comprehensive plan will be Isanti's road map for the future. This meeting will last roughly 2 hours.

Playground Update

I met with superintendent Novak this morning to discuss the playground issue. The School District has started the process of getting quotes for equipment. I offered my help in this process. I also mentioned a number of cost savings that could help move this project forward. We discussed the steps moving forward and the Districts time table. I will be waiting to receive an updated time table next month. I will update you when I receive this information.

Playground update

Mr Novak, School District Superintendent, has extended an invitation to discuss this issue. I am working to set-up a meeting to resolve this issue. I will keep you updated.

Giving Thanks

I want to wish each and every one of you a Happy Thanksgiving. I am thankful for many things in my life. I am thankful I have no fear of want. I am thankful for my incredible wife, son and daughter. I am thankful for the privilege to serve the Citizens of Isanti.

I am also thankful for the people I have met in the 4 1/2 years I have lived in Isanti. I want to point out 5 individuals that have through their tremendous efforts made the Greater Isanti Community richer.

The first two are Irene Bauer and Jill Reller. Ms. Bauer has through her tireless efforts, at many different city positions, brought dignity, efficiency and grace to city government. Ms. Bauer’s most recent extraordinary service to Isanti was as Interim City Administrator. She often put in 12 and 14 hour days. This is government service at its finest.
Jill Reller has given her time and talents to many charitable efforts. Ms Reller can always be counted on to help those in need. She is truly a gift to Isanti.

I would like to thank the next three Grand Gentlemen, John Schlagel, Bill Carlson and Joe Crocker. All three bestow of their time, talent and treasure as if from a font of perpetual giving. Their individual acts of selflessness are to numerous to mention. I have seen first hand their tireless efforts in the face of almost insurmountable odds to better Isanti County.

These are but a few examples of the numerous individuals that bless our community. I believe we should take the time to thank the many people that make life better for us all.

Fire District Update

I am writing this letter to my friends and neighbors in Athens, Bradford, Oxford, Spencer Brook, Stanford, Isanti Townships and my fellow City of Isanti Citizens. The Isanti Fire Department is being transformed into a Fire District Department. This Fire District includes the previous mentioned Townships and the City of Isanti. I strongly support this transformation as it gives complete responsibility and authority to the Fire District.

The issue I have is the current agreement gives one vote per Township and City. This gives The City of Isanti 1 vote out of 7 or 14% of the total. This may seem to be a fair distribution of power, but it is not. During 2005, Isanti’s share of the budget was 28%. As Isanti grows our share of the budget will grow. I do not want to see the day when Isanti is paying 40% to 50% of the total budget, yet has no true control over how the money is spent.

This arrangement could see four of the Townships, with less than 20% of the budget contribution, control 100% of the expenditures in the near future. Currently, the four smallest contributors’ portion of the budget is 37%. This is not fair representation.

I offer the compromise solution of weighted votes in fiscal matters and a 1 vote per entity for all other matters. This would mean in the current situation the City of Isanti, which pays 28% of the budget, would have 28 votes out of 100 for fiscal matters whereas Oxford Township, which pays 2.37% of the budget, would receive 2 votes. During a vote for Fire Chief or other officers, each entity would receive one vote each.

We must reach a fair and flexible agreement that will stand the test of time. I, as a representative of the Citizens of Isanti, must make sure Isanti does not lose authority over its expenditures. The proposed agreement mandates that each entity must levy taxes to pay their share of the expenses. This is fair so long as each entity has proper representation regarding expenditures. The proposed Fire District is to be discussed at the individual Township and City Council Meetings. The proposal is intended to go into effect January 1, 2006. It is critical every member of the Fire District has authority that is equal to their financial responsibility. I will not support this agreement as written.

Thank you for your time and if you have any questions or comments please contact me at 763-444-7158 or george.wimmer@genesiswireless.us.

November 15th Council Meeting Update

Last night’s Council Meeting had two contentious topics of debate.

The first was the street improvement Public Hearing. The controversy revolved around the Richard Avenue neighborhood. Sewer improvement, sidewalks and the extension of Richard to Main Street were proposed. The sewer improvement is needed to replace old clay sewer lines that have the potential to breakdown. The other two issues however would destroy the character of this tranquil community.

This neighborhood and several others in this section of Isanti were originally designed to a rural standard. This means the roads are narrower than normal city streets. This section of town also has beautiful mature tree growth. Side walks would erode away the usable land of each home owner. The sidewalks would also have the potential of destroying current trees. If some of the trees are saved, their root systems have a chance to destroy the sidewalks. I was able to successfully argue that sidewalks were not needed in this neighborhood.

The last issue is the extension of Richard to Main Street. This has the potential in the coming years to add a heavy traffic load through Richard’s narrow street. The potential of increased traffic is created with the possible Hotel construction and other businesses locating at the east end of Main Street. I am hopeful this needed development will occur. I am against the connection of Richard and the extra traffic this development will cause these residents. Richard loops to a Highway 65 access. People will naturally flow to the easy 65 exit.

I ask my fellow Council members to rethink their decision to extend Richard. We need to keep unique neighborhoods in tact. We have a great deal of new cookie cutter construction. Let’s keep some of Isanti’s distinct character alive for future generations to enjoy.

The second controversial topic was the proposed Clark Construction project west of Fifth Avenue and south of Spirit Brook. This area had been previously zoned R2 single family homes. Unfortunately the City Council on a vote of 2-1 approved a rezone to R3. This puts the possibility of 8 unit buildings in an area of single family homes. The rezone was requested by Clark Construction to maximize the lands value.

I have voted against the rezone of this project twice---once at Planning Commission and once in City Council. I voted against the preliminary plat twice----once at Planning Commission and once in City Council. This type of housing is not compatible with single family homes.

The issue came at last nights Council Meeting when Mr. Clark had his Attorney lecture the Council on how we had to vote for this project or face legal action we would surely lose. I was disgusted by this strong arm tactic. I will not allow my vote to be coerced in such a fashion. I have and always will vote my conscience. I can not allow the threat of legal action take the City Council’s Sovereignty away.

The final vote was 2-2 which means the proposed plat failed to be approved. Council Member Kennedy and I voted against and Council Members Johnson and Larson voted in favor. Mayor Apitz had a conflict of interest and had to abstain.

The Council heard an update on the Central business District Revitalization Project. This project is near and dear to my heart. This district encompasses the area in and around Main Street. This project has the potential to transform this district into a thriving business community. Main Street is the heart of Isanti. We need to maintain a strong commitment to rebuilding the business community along this corridor.

The last item I wish to discuss is the proposed Fire District. I am in favor of this action so long as Isanti receives the appropriate amount of votes on the governing body. If Isanti’s Taxpayers pay 25% of the cost then Isanti should receive 25% of the votes. This will be discussed at the next Fire Board Public Meeting Thursday November 17th.

I will as always update you on these issues.

November 15 City Council Meeting

The City Council will be holding a Public Hearing on the proposed 2006 street repairs. This is an important meeting. If you have received notification of a street repair in your neighborhood you should attend this meeting.

We will also be discussing the realignment of Credit Union Drive. This is another instance of past poor city planning. Credit Union drive has two almost 90 degree curves. If this road is straightened is can also be link across 5. The issue again is the rights of the land owners the proposed route would take. The Credit Union has asked for compensation for this realignment. The road which now passes to the east of the credit union would be moved to the west. The buildings entire orientations will be 180 degrees in the wrong direction.

The Council will discuss the driveway width ordnance. The proposed ordnance would allow driveways to be a maximum of 30 feet at the road. The current ordnance states 20 feet. The city of Isanti has had one of the most restrictive ordnances in the area. I have heard from a wide range of citizens including seniors and those with boats that need a larger entrance to their 3 car garages. All agree that widening the driveway would allow for easier access. This is the first of what will be many ordnances reforms coming from the Planning Commission.

The Fire Board which helps operate the City of Isanti Fire Department has proposed Fire District Joint Powers agreement with the City of Isanti and the Townships of Bradford, Stanford, Athens, Spencer Brook, Oxford and Isanti. I just received this information on November 10th. The general concept I think is a good one. The current agreement leaves the City of Isanti with the liability of the Fire Department without proper authority. The details of the proposed Joint Powers agreement however have a long way to go. I will discuss one in this posting and will detail more as the agreement develops.

The main issue is proper representation. I will strongly fight to have the percentage of votes equate with the percentage of funds paid. This means if the City of Isanti pays 25% of the budget then Isanti has 25% of the votes. The proposed agreement gives one vote to the City and one vote to each of the 6 Townships. This is not fair to the taxpayers of Isanti. This will be an evolving process to reach a proper agreement. I will as always keep you updated.

Alarming news from School District 911

On October 25th the Isanti Park and Recreation Board was informed of the decision by School District 911 that a playground was not to be built at the new school in Isanti. The School district had committed to building this last year. Superintendent Novak approached Isanti City staff with a request to build this playground. This was part of the bonding issue that was approved last year. Mr. Novak stated that increased construction cost led to the removal of the playground.

This was discussed at the October Park and Recreation Board meeting. The board instructed staff to ask Superintendent Novak to provide us with the proposed playground equipment cost. The board discussed several options including a community build to lower cost. We also wanted to know what else was cut from the District’s budget. We did not feel it is proper to pay School District expenses with City of Isanti funds. We have an obligation to protect the interest of our citizens. A deadline of November 16th has been set for a response to our questions.

The City of Isanti did not require any park land dedication from the Sun Prairie development because of this commitment. Last fall the School District made the City of Isanti blindly commit to having sewer and water connections to the new school location by 2006. The City of Isanti is fulfilling its commitment and yet District 911 is not living up to theirs.

I am angry that the City of Isanti was not asked to partake in the cost cutting process since it has such a dramatic effect on City Planning. As a partner with the School District, I believe these arbitrary actions will lead to further anxiety in the relationship between the Citizens of Isanti and District 911.

Bombarded with information on the growing obesity epidemic in school age children, I find it hard to fathom how this School District would eliminate this exercise option from our children. I am extremely angry with this decision. This playground would have fulfilled the park requirement in the comprehensive plan — which affects the area south of 5 and east of 65. I don’t believe it’s fair that the Citizens of Isanti must bare the cost of this School District expense.

As always, I will keep you updated.

Planning Commission

We will be meeting for the last time in the old City Hall tonight. The Planning Commission will be discussing the important issue of Tier One Ordnances. Tier One is the territory that surrounds the City of Isanti that has been designated for future City limit expansion. The City of Isanti has zoning control of this land.

The issue arises when Isanti tries to develop ordnances that regulate behavior and establish precedent. We had an issue recently when a dog daycare and training business in Tier One applied for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP). This business did not meet the requirements for such a permit from Isanti County. The City of Isanti has no ordnance regulating this type of business.

Since this property is in Tier One the landowner applied for a CUP from Isanti. This was denied by the Planning Commission and City Council. However, this process did reveal the underlining weakness. The City of Isanti appears to be able to approve such a CUP but has no mechanism to enforce existing noise and nuisance ordnances in Tier One.

This brings us to the current need to establish a policy of enforcement in Tier One. This will be a long involved process that requires both County and City officials to work together in a collaborative manner.

The Planning Commission will be receiving an update at tonight’s meeting. I would like to hear from anyone interested in this issue.

Rapid Residential Growth

The sewer and water rates are the first indication of the high cost of rapid residential growth. I have been successful in driving property taxes lower but the 7.81% reduction is only a fraction of the increased sewer and water rates.

The water and sewer rates had to rise to cover the ill-advised partial rate reduction last year and new city growth. I continue to stress that new developments pay for themselves. Current city tax payers should not subsidized new growth.

We must always ask how any new development will affect Isanti’s tax base and City Budget.

The new development impacts the following:

Road construction and maintenance
Traffic impact
Water capacity
Sewer capacity
Police protection
Fire protection
City staff time
Park and trail maintenance

These are just an example of all the cost associated with growth. If this is properly understood and budgeted, then Isanti will be successful. We must also bring in new development that only improves Isanti.

We can not continue to destroy neighborhoods to benefit new development. Hillock Court is only one example of an existing neighborhood being irreversibly altered to the financial benefit of a developer.

I will, in my capacity on the Planning Commission and City Council, make sure we have answers to all these questions. A majority of the City Council however must make the correct decisions.
Development must pay for itself.

$54,000 Admin Assistant VS Police Officer

The Isanti City Council discussed the 2006 budget tonight. I again stressed the importance of removing the $54,000 Administrative Assistant position from the budget and replacing it with a Police Officer at a cost of $35,000 starting in July of 2006. Unfortunately Mayor Apitz, Council Member Johnson and Council Member Larson voted to keep the Administrative Assistant in the budget. I believe this is a terrible decision.

Isanti needs more police protection not another administrative position. Isanti added 3 staff positions in 2005. This is a simple case of yet another staff position vs. effective police protection. Isanti’s patrol area will continue to extend as the city grows. The new extension of the city east of highway 65 will add hundreds and eventually thousands of new residents to Isanti. We will also have a 3rd school to patrol in 2006. I feel strongly that this is a safety issue.

Police protection and effective crime prevention are critical to a safe community. We can not expect to have top level results without providing our Police Department with all the tools needed.

Our Police will continue to do their best each and every day. I will continue to fight to make sure they have everything necessary to fulfill their creed to “Protect and Serve”.

County Highway 23 Trail

I am happy to report that the City Council directed the city engineer to do a feasibility study on extending the trail and sidewalk along County Highway 23. This is important to providing safe routes for children to school. I will keep you updated as this process progresses.

Sewer and Water Update

Sewer and water rates will be raised by an average of 60%. This is a difficult situation to have found ourselves in. The former Councils decision in 2004 to lower portions of the rates and the continued expense of new growth has caused a large deficit in the sewer and water funds. Unfortunately this is the only avenue available at this time to remedy the situation.

I was surprised to see only one person at the Public Hearing tonight. I had expected more public input into the process. The citizen comment about new homes not paying their fair share of the sewer cost was a good one. The first few months of a home's new hook-up is charged at a minimal rate. This gap could cost the city thousands of dollars in a high new construction year. The city uses an average of 3000 gallons to charge new homes. The city engineer stated 8000 gallons would be a better figure. I will ask for more information and a higher charge to new home hook-ups if appropriate.

City staff has been now instructed to monitor these rates to make sure we are capturing enough revenue to cover operating cost. If these rates go into a surplus then I will push to have these rates adjusted lower.

Halloween

Everyone have a safe and happy Halloween.

Budget Update

The City Council will be discussing budget changes at the November 1st Council Meeting. I will again be arguing for the elimination of the $54,000 Administrative Assistant position. I will be asking that a Police Investigator be hired mid way through 2006. This will have a cost of $35,000 for the 2006 budget cycle.

A Police Investigator will allow patrol officers more time on the street. This becomes critical with the development east of highway 65. Another factor is the new school. I will be stressing the need to have more police resources involved with enforcing the school zones. This will bring greater safety to our children going to and from school.

As our population continues to grow so must our police protection. Police and fire protection should be at the top of our priority list. We can not continue to see rapid residential growth without a corresponding level of safety protection. Police protection should never be in a catch up mode. Please let me know if you have any comments or concerns.

Public Hearing Sewer and Water Rates

The City Council will be holding a public hearing to establish new sewer and water rates. The rates being presented will bring back balance to these funds.

I voted for a different set of rates. The rates I voted for would have had less of an impact on seniors and low income households. These rates would also have brought balance to the funds. The difference is not dramatic but without detailed information on the impact of the new rate structure, I felt that these groups should be given the most protection possible.

The increase is needed to bring the rates inline with current expenses. This gap has been caused by the ill-advised rate reduction last year and the increase cost of operation. We can not afford to continue to run a deficit in the sewer and water fund.

I hope any and all that want to be heard on this rate change come to the City Council meeting Tuesday November 1st.

Rum River Dr Lights Update

I was contacted by a manager from connexus on Tuesday. He wanted to make sure that the lights were repaired. I told him that the lights appear to be working the last few days. I also passed on the information about lights out in other parts of town. If there are any other lights out please let me know. Thank you.

Citizen Input

I am looking for citizen input on defining the future of Isanti. As many are aware we are working on a new comprehensive plan. This plan will guide the development of Isanti for the next 5 to 10 years. These are the years that will lay the foundation for generations to come.

During this period we will redesign our Main Street Business District. We will define the types of residential housing patterns. Everything from lot size and driveway width to the need, if any, for low cost housing and apartments will be considered. We will determine where we want business and industrial growth.

I want to make sure we maintain Isanti as a unique place to live and work. I dread the concept of One Cookie Cutter City after another from Blaine to Cambridge. We need to create a climate of creative thinking.

We need to provide the services and shopping opportunities our citizens need. We need to have hotels and restaurants to capture the visitor dollars generated from our extensive recreational opportunities. Our soccer fields, BMX track, park and trail system, Rodeo and Jubilee Days, Isanti Fall Music Fest and many other activities bring thousands of people to our community. We need to capture these dollars. This can be accomplished while maintaining our unique feel through the planning process.

We also need to keep distinct neighborhoods in tact. New development should not alter IsantiÂ’s special appeal. I am a newer resident myself. My family moved here in 2001. I am not against growth. The growth does need to pay for itself. Rapid residential growth spurs growing cost that needs to be properly budgeted.

These costs include more public works employees and police and fire protection. These come with a cost. A large portion of our city's budget is financed by development fees. As development slows in the future these cost will become a burden on city taxpayers. I am working to keep our city's budget lean and insist on a transition plan being in place when development fees taper off. I do not want to reach a day when development slows and the city tax payer is hit with an extreme property tax rate increase.

Many cities have faced this tough transition and have had to make drastic property tax increases. This may seem far into the future but it may be only a few years away.

If we plan properly these and other issues may have a smoother transition. This is where public input is so important. Our citizens have a wealth of knowledge that will have a positive impact on our decision making process. I for one will listen to your suggestions and concerns. Please contact me at george.wimmer@genesiswireless.us or 763-444-7158.

We have an incredible future ahead of us. We have added great city staff that will be able to help work through this process. Citizen input is still the most important item. I am excited about the work ahead of us. Together we can accomplish our goals and create an Isanti we will be proud to call home for generations to come.

Thank you for your input.

Hillock Court

Another neighborhood will have its tranquility shattered by development. The Hillock Court neighborhood, which was first built over 20 years ago, turned out in full force Tuesday night. They laid out their case against the proposed Red Oak Development. This development would replace the cul-de-sac of Hillock Court into a through street eventually linking to Third Avenue NE. This development was originally designed to be a cul-de-sac until wetland issues arose. The developer stated a cul-de-sac would not be feasible since he would not make enough money on the project. I met with the developer and found him to be a respectable and honorable person. I disagree however with the development he is proposing.

The hardest part of my decision was the knowledge that the proposed development property needs to be cleaned up. I voted against this project due to the increased traffic and destruction of a unique neighborhood. We can not make decisions to optimize developer profits.

Hillock Court is bordered to the west by Park Brook the Elementary school to the east and by a row of trees to the north. The new road extension would in my opinion radically reduce the value of the two existing homes the road would abut. Hillock Court is also 2 feet narrower than a standard city road. This could cause safety issues if traffic does increase.

Staff stated the concern that the existing Hillock Court was in violation of the cul-de-sac ordnance. This is true. It is also true it has been in violation for more than 2 decades. We can not continually correct the poor planning decisions of the past on the backs and wallets of our residents.

I will be laying out my goals for planning in the near future. These goals will improve the planning process to avoid such issues.

Blog Vindicated

City Attorney Clark Joslin delivered an oral preliminary report on my Blog at tonight’s Council Meeting. He stated the First Amendment Freedom of Speech is a basic right. Limitations are only accepted in very narrow circumstances. He stated he found no exceptions to this right in my Blog.

Mr. Joslin further stated that there are no communications in my blog that violate dissemination of any confidential data under the Data Practices Act.

He stated that if any individual has an issue with my blog that it is a private matter and does not concern the City. He further stated that he will have his final written report at the next Council Meeting. I will update you when I receive this report.

I hope this puts this issue to rest and we can now move on as a City Council. I will continue to use my Blog to discuss my decision making process. I also will continue to update the citizens of Isanti on the issues. This Blog has been an excellent tool to communicate directly with the residents I represent. I will continue the fight to reform city government and will not be intimidated.

I want to thank all those who expressed their support of me during this process. I will update you on the rest of the Council Meeting Wednesday morning.

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission recommended Alan Duff to the City Council as our new member. Mr. Duff has had a 23 year military reserve career and an M.A. in Urban Planning. Mr. Duff has also served as a Planning Commissioner for Apple Valley. He will bring great experience and expertise to Isanti's planning process.

I am extremely happy that the 2 new citizen members of the Planning Commission have all had either planning training, planning degrees or city planning employment. Mr. Duff fulfills all three of these categories. If he is approved he will be the 3rd new highly qualified Commissioner. This continues to add a depth of experience and expertise Isanti needs as we lay the foundation for the future.

Rum River Lights

I called Connexus for the 5th time today to ask how we can get the lights along Rum River Dr SW to work. They have once again stated that a work order has not been placed to fix these lights. I know City Hall staff has also called to get these lights fixed. I will be asking that the city hold payment of the service fee we pay until these lights are fixed.

We are approaching Halloween in a few weeks. This issue has to be resolved before Tricker Treaters are walking the neighborhood. This is a an issue of child safety. It is also an issue of getting the services we all pay for.

If there are other streets lights not working please let me know. I will keep you updated.

******Update*******

City Staff is getting a record of their communications with connexus. This will be used to detail these lighting issues.

Main Street Lights

I have been asked many times by many people what is going on with the lights on Main Street. They are on during the day and off at night or some on and some off. This has been and issue for over a year.

A meeting was held a month and half ago to give one last "last chance" to the contractor and manufacturer to solve this problem. As of today I have received no information on where we are in the process. My patience has finally run out. If a city can not make the lights work, then what confidence would our citizens have in anything else we do. I am as frustrated as anyone with this problem. I have asked for a plan of what to do next if/when this final "final last" chance does not work.

I guarantee people will be held responsible for this festering issue.

E-mail Updates

I have been asked how individuals may get updates of my Blog. If you would like e-mail updates to new postings or "big" issue postings please e-mail me at george@georgewimmer.com. I will then add you to the confidential e-mail list. Thank you for your support.

Comprehensive Plan

Isanti is starting a new comprehensive plan. This will be a concerted effort to incorporate all levels of planning. City growth centering on residential and businesses planning, utilities, traffic flows and amenities will all need to be discussed. This is a plan that is desperately needed. The current comprehensive plan was out of date the day it was finished.

This leads to my first concern. The same organization that did the previous plan is doing the new plan. Fool us once shame on you, fool us twice shame on us. The new comprehensive plan will cost $50,000 to $100,000. If done correctly we will receive a tool that can guide us for the next decade.

If, as the last plan, not completed carefully we will have wasted tax payer money and have to start all over again. The excuse for the last plan failing was the rapid residential growth. This was stated to be a surprise. I am unimpressed by this. The City Council reviews each plat that comes before it. If there is a plan for growth in place it needs to be followed. We do not need to allow ever development that is proposed. All plans must be flexible but the guiding principles must be followed.

The discussion needs to start with one simple question. What type of city do we want Isanti to be? What type of businesses do we need to attract? What type of amenities do we want to have for our citizens? What type of housing do we need? Then we need to make sure we have a plan in place and a 3-5 year plan to have the necessary services. We need to discuss the level of services we want to provide and discuss the ongoing cost. This then finally leads to how much we need to pay in property taxes to fund these services. Each mile of road we build adds maintenance cost for each generation. Each new city hall employee increases cost every year.

A vast portion of our total city budget is funded by development fees. These fees will dry up when development slows. Unfortunately we will still have all the cost with running city government. The only way to close the gap is by reducing city staff and services or raising property taxes. A good comprehensive plan can take a slow down in development into consideration. This will allow us to make the transition to lower city revenues and ease the pressure on property tax payers.

These are simple hard truths we need to face. I encourage every citizen and business to voice their opinion and help plan the future of Isanti. We will have a brighter future if we do the work today.

Police Officer Update

I asked my fellow Council Members to reconsider adding back a police investigator starting halfway through 2006. The Council would need to trim other cost to make room for this position. The last new officer hired was in the 2004. If an officer is not added in 2006 then we will have to wait until the 2007 budget cycle. It is critical to add a police investigator to free up patrol officers. Currently patrol officers do their own investigations. This means they are not patrolling Isanti’s streets. The new school and many more new homes and businesses will be constructed on the east side of highway 65. This adds many more miles for our patrol officers.

Making sure our city continues to be a safe and secure place for our residents is my top priority. Isanti’s rapid residential growth necessitates more police protection. This is an area that can no longer be neglected. We also have a methamphetamine problem in our city and county. Isanti’s police force is working hard everyday to solve these problems.

We have a special responsibility to our Fire and Police protection. These men and women need to know that they will have all the tools necessary to do their job.

Library Update

Mr. Iverson offered to donate the land for the proposed library. This tax deductible offer was made contingent on the library being placed adjacent to is commercial property by the gas station at the corner of county highways 5 and 23.

The library construction fund has been growing from donations of all denominations. The real issue is what will be the yearly operating cost. This cost will be the responsibility of Isanti’s tax payers. I know many are very excited about the proposed library but we need to know the total true cost. A library can be a great asset to a community if it is affordable. I hope to receive information on the operating cost and update you.

Walking Bus Update

I have been receiving e-mails and phone calls on the walking school bus. I am eager to work with the many people interested in this possible solution to the school districts policy of not bussing in a 1 mile radius of a student’s school. The optimal solution would be to bus during the cold winter months and do the walking school bus during the warmer fall and spring months. The lack of busing is a school board decision. I am trying to find ways to fill the gap in service to the many concerned parents of small children. I look forward to working with all those concerned to solve this serious safety issue.

Water and Sewer Rates

The Council met tonight in open session to debate the shortfall in the sewer and water rates. The outcome is that the rates will need to be raised. This is caused by the rate reduction last year and the increased cost of an expanding city. I will be looking at keeping a low base rate for the small water users, especially Isanti's senior population. The low base rate will lead to a higher per 1000 gallon rate. This will make heavy water users pay for the water they use. This seems to be the only fair way to pay for the cities water usage.

This is a decision that is hard to make but must be done. We can not allow the water and sewer funds to run deficits. Negative net income in these funds could mean the loss of grants and low rate loans for city water and sewer improvements. We must make sure that Isanti is on firm financial ground.

I will also only vote for a rate structure that solves the structural fund problems. Any questions please let me know.

October 3rd special meeting

Monday October 3rd the City Council will meet in special session to discuss the sewer/water rates and the preliminary budget. The sewer and water funds are running healthy cash balances but have significant structural issues. The cash balances are being increased by new construction fees. If the rapid residential growth slows as many predict then we would have significant problems. This was in part caused by last year’s rate reduction. This needs to be corrected to make sure these funds are in good financial shape. I will update you on any new information from the meeting.

International Walk to School Week

International walk to school week is October 3rd to the 7th. This is a week to remind all of us that walking to school has many physical health benefits. This week also should remind us that there are a number of safety issues including traffic that need to be contended with. Many children who live less than a mile from school have to walk. This has been a point of concern for many parents. We can make this into a positive using walking buses and safe routes to schools. These are simple tools that we can offer our parents and children.

We have all been wondering how we can improve our children’s safe transportation to school. Many have to walk to school along busy roads and highways. There is no silver bullet to this problem but if we explore and implement several options we may help mitigate this issue. As Isanti grows our traffic will increase and the number of children having to walk to school will escalate. This causes safety concerns. One possible solution is walking buses.
A 'Walking Bus' lets a group, or 'bus', of children walk from home to school each morning quickly and safely under the guidance of trained adult supervisors. This takes the support of parents and dedicated volunteers.

Program Objectives

Increase daily physical activity for children and adults.
Increase safety for pedestrians in the neighborhood.
Reduce traffic in and around the neighborhood and school.
Decrease crime when more people are outside keeping an eye on their neighborhood.
Increase community cohesion by helping neighbors get to know one another.
Increase child safety

These are just a few of the goals we can reach with walking buses.

The walking bus is the perfect alternative to school age children walking alone along busy roads and highways. I am looking to form a group that is willing to explore this and other possible solutions to our children’s safety needs. This is one of many possible answers to our children’s’ transportation question. I have approached Isanti County Active Living by Design and School District 911 for their support in this project. Both are excited and interested in solving this problem. With the help and support of parents, volunteers and the school district we can improve the safety of our children.

If you would like more information please contact George Wimmer at 763-444-7158, george.wimmer@genesiswireless.us or Cindy Weiss at cwdistvolcoor@juno.com, 763-444-9310.

here is the web link...http://www.iwalktoschool.org/

Support

I want to thank everyone who has been showing me tremendous support since the City Council launched their "investigation" of my blog. The e-mails and phone calls continue to flow in. Again thank you to everyone.

Police Request

I have been critical of the $54,000 admin assistant request in the 2006 budget. This position squeezed out a request for a new police officer. If the money has to be spent then the police officer position should be hired. There has been no growth in the Police Department for the last few years. Our city continues to grow as do the policing concerns of our citizens. Isanti will see another boom in housing and its first true boom in commercial expansion in 2006. This will put tremendous stress on a police force that is already spread thin. We need to make a commitment to our Police Officers and citizens that we will do everything thing within reason to ensure a safe and friendly Isanti for the generations to come.

Park Tour

The Isanti Park and Recreation Board will be doing its annual park tour Tuesday September 27th at 5pm. If you have any questions about the park and trail system please let me know. We will be evaluating the safety, usability and viability of each park.

Political Censorship

I was surprised at tonight’s Isanti City Council meeting. Mr. Brian Iverson lodged a complaint against my blog, www.georgewimmer.blogspot.com. He stated that he was upset that I had been critical of him in my online writings. I agree I have been critical of Mr. Iverson representing the City of Isanti on the EDA. Mr. Iverson is Isanti’s self-proclaimed highest tax payer and developer. Having someone with so much economic clout on a city board is a per se conflict of interest. The fact Council Member Ralph Johnson has been doing contract work for Mr. Iverson adds even greater concern. For further details on this specific issue, please refer to my blog. Tonight the City Council on a vote of 3-2 with Mayor Apitz, Sue Larson and Ralph Johnson, voted to have the city attorney investigate my blog.

This is an incredible act of censorship. Just because someone does not like my opinion does not give the City Council the right to censor me. I would find it amusing, if it were not so sad, that the Council feels it necessary to spend City money to investigate my blog. I use the blog to keep the Citizens of Isanti informed of my decision making process. Of course, I will fight any such "investigation" by the City Council. It’s not clear what power, if any, the City has to censor my personal blog. This again smacks of the “old boys network” protecting one of its own. If the members of the council feel this will silence me they are sadly mistaken. I will not allow this abuse of power to stand unchallenged.

Where do we draw the line? Will they next try to censor campaign material? Will they try to strike comments made in open council? At what point does this Council stop on the slippery slope? I understand that change may be difficult for some. But I was elected to protect the Citizens of Isanti - not to be a rubber stamp for developers. Freedom of Speech, especially Political Speech, is our most important right. I thank all those who continue to show me great support in my fight to reform City government. I would also like to thank my fellow Council Members for drawing greater attention to my blog, www.georgewimmer.blogspot.com.

Park Dedication

Rum River Meadows Park will be dedicated Saturday September 24th. This will be a potluck event. I hope everyone can make it. I am proud to have a park serving this area. If you have any questions please contact me.

Isanti Fall Music Fest

The Isanti Fall Music Fest was a great success. We had some fear of a rain but again this year we were lucky. Our vendors all had good sales. Linwood Pizza had to completely restock. I am happy to be a part of this great Isanti celebration. I hope everyone had a good family fun time.

This fits into my drive to make our Main Street a viable financial asset to the city. This celebration brings new people to our Main Street. We have a number of great businesses located along Main Street. I am continuing to push to renovate the buildings and to bring new businesses to this section of town. We need to make this a focus of city and EDA planning.

I would like to thank all the volunteers who helped make this a reality. I am also looking for feedback on how this can be made into a better event. Again thank you to everyone who came out.

Planning Commission

We are in the process of reviewing driveway widths. There have been several request to have wider driveways.

The topic of new homes in wetlands and along the Rum River was discussed. There are special regulations a property owner must follow if they own a home in these areas. We will be working on having special notices to these perspective property owners. This would fit into the Home Owners List I have talked about.

There is an opening on the Planning Commission. This is a critical position to the future of Isanti. I would encourage anyone who would like to fill this position to apply. If you have any questions please let me know.

We have a new Chairperson, Sean Stevens. I think he will do a great job keeping order and following process.

Isanti Fall Music Fest

We would like to welcome everyone to attend the Third Annual Isanti Fall Music Fest on Saturday, September 17th. The festival is located on Isanti Main Street. Festivities will be kicked off with a classic car show, kid’s games and karaoke contest at 2pm. The Lamont Cranston Band will be playing from 7pm until 10pm. There will be a wide assortment of food, service and craft vendors. The Isanti Lions will be again hosting a beer tent. We hope to see everyone at this free family event. If you have any questions please contact George Wimmer at 763-444-7158.

Good Star Rising

I was happy to see the well written and accurate article in the Star today. It helps all of us when the facts are laid out for everyone to see. The two newspapers that cover Isanti City Council meetings serve a great public good ( when accurate), by communicating to the citizens at large.

City Administrator Update

We got him. Last night the City Council voted 5-0 to offer a contract to Don Lorsung. Don has signed the contract. I look forward to having Don start November 14th. He will be introduced at the Isanti Fall Music Festival September 17th at 6:30. Don is a dedicated professional who will bring tremendous talent and organizational skills to Isanti.

If you have any questions on detail please call me at 444-7158 or e-mail me at george.wimmer@genesiswireless.us.

City Administrator Update

The Isanti City Council will hold a meeting Monday at 5pm. This will start in open session then close to discuss the tentative contract with Don Lorsung. This meeting will then be again opened to the public and press. At this point a vote would occur to accept or reject the contract.

This has been a long and time consuming endeavor. I am however excited to have Don start working for the city. He has tremendous credentials and will be a great improvement for the City of Isanti.

I made my opinion know to Don that I would prefer he live within the City of Isanti. He had stated if he does work for Isanti he also prefers to live in or very close by to the city. The city can not make any employee live within the city borders. Don was however sensitive to this issue. Another level of understanding that will serve him well in our Great City.

City Tax Update

The new levy numbers came in from the county. The City's tax base has increased by $300,000. This means that the prelim budget of an increase of 3.3% will be at the very least a 7.81% property tax decrease. This is great news for Isanti Ctiy property tax payers. Isanti's total budget will still increase by 28%. This is an incredible high number. If we can reduce remove the $54,000 for the Admin Asst we will still have a 25% increase in the total budget.

I am however still strongly against adding an admin assistant at $54,000. This is a position that is not needed. Just because we have the money does not mean we need to spend it. This is the tax payers money not City Hall. If this further reduction is made we could have a 9% property tax decrease. This gives the City a great cushion in the event that sewer and water fees do not cover the almost $5,000,000 bonding issue for the east 65 road and utility construction. The construction cost for the new City Hall also continue to rise. The tax rate information is great but we need to understand there are looming cost on the horizon.

The next looming cost is the water and sewer rates. These will have to be increased due to the previous council's reduction last year. This was a case of poor financial planning. These rates were reduced to help one business owner. The business owner was not helped and the cities sewer and water funds lost over $60,000 and counting.

The City of Isanti needs to create 3 and 5 year budget outlines with service levels. This gives us a clear idea of what will be needed at each stage of our growth. Without this type of short and long term planning the City will continue to bob back and forth with no clear direction.

I am very excited that in my first year on the Council I am able to help reduce property taxes. We need to continue to keep city government as lean as possible.

City Administrator Update

The personnel committee updated the City council tonight on the contract negotiation with Don Lorsung for the City Administrator position. We will be sending the contract to Mr. Lorsung Wednesday for his review. We have reached a tentative agreement. This will need to go to the full council after Mr. Lorsung has agreed. The council will meet in special session early next week to discuss this contract and vote. This gives each Council Member input into this process. I am unable to discuss specifics until a contract is reached. As soon as we reach an agreement I will inform you.

Preliminary Budget

The preliminary budget was discussed tonight. Council Member Kennedy and I again fought to have a zero tax increase. The current budget proposal has a 3.3% levy increase. This is however only part of the story. The total budget would increase by 28%. I am asking city government to live on a 25% total increase. This 25% is in the increase in Local Government Aid and the new tax dollars from the city growth. I do not want current city residents to pay for the city growth. I will continue to fight to have the rapid residential growth pay for itself. The sticking point is the $54,000 Administrative Assistant position. Mayor Apitz, Council Member Larson and Johnson voted for this position. I feel this is not needed and an outrage to the Isanti City Tax Payer. We increased three staff positions last year and will be adding another 2-3 for 2006. The city is growing but we need to make sure we run a trim and lean administration as we move forward.

The other financial issue haunting the city was the reduction in sewer and water rates in 2004. This has lead to a running deficit in these funds. I had wanted this as part of the total budget discussion tonight. These rates will have to be increased as well. This means there could be a 3.3% property tax increase as well as sewer and water rate increases. This becomes a financial burden for families working on a small if any pay increase. Isanti needs to be attractive in its property tax rates. We continue to inch our way to high property tax rates. I will continue to fight these increased taxes.

For further information please read the following article. http://www.isanticountynews.com/2005/September/7levy.html

Ad Hoc

The City Council will be debating the proposed 2006 budget. I will not vote for a budget that has the possibility of raising one penny in new property taxes. The rapid residential growth must pay for itself or be slowed down. This is just the beginning of increased cost to Isanti. The traffic problems and increased infrastructure cost will be a burden for years to come. If we are not fiscally responsible today these cost will continue to escalate.

I will also be discussing the apparent need to reevaluate the sewer and water rates. The Council last year lowered rates in a vain attempt to help one business owner. This has led to a roughly $ 60,000 deficit in this years receipts. The business that was to be helped was actually not helped. This can not be allowed to continue.

This is another example of poor financial leadership and planning. I have been made aware of significant cost over runs in the City Hall project. These seemed to have occurred due the decision not to have proper plan review. These process short cuts often cost time and money in the long run.

This leads me to my final point. Isanti is in need of a professional City Administrator. We have completed our preliminary negotiation are now writing up a contract for Don Lorsung and the full Council to vote on. These issues would have been prevented by a high quality City Administrator. This lack of leadership must and will come to an end.

Don Lorsung agrees to negotiate

Don Lorsung has agreed to start negotiating a contract with the City of Isanti. Mayor Apitz and I will begin negotiating a contract immediately. Don brings tremendous experience from the cities of Baxter, MN and Charles City, Iowa. He has worked in a rapid growth environment and a mature city setting. I stressed the need for communication with staff, council and the community at large. The City of Isanti will be a much better run city if we can come to terms with Don. Don was the unanimous choice of the Isanti City council. Each council Member ranked him number one on our list of interviewed candidates. I hope to have negotiations completed by early next week. I would hope an announcement could be made at the next City Council Meeting September 6th. I will keep you posted.

2nd Interview for City Administrator

Monday August 29th the City Council will be conducting a second interview of Don Lorsung for the City Administrator position. Mr. Lorsung will be meeting all Department heads from 9:45 to 11:00. Mayor Apitz, City Clerk Bauer, City Attorney Joslin and I will be giving him a tour of the city at 11:15 to 12:15. This will be followed by a Public Meeting starting at 12:30 to conduct the second interview.

Planning Commission Reform

I have stated in the past that I will be working to reform Isanti's planning process. These reforms will include, but are not limited to, reviewing ordnances, establishing new criteria for tree preservation and an “Owners List”.

The ordance review will include eliminating bad and conflicting ordnances, proposing new ordnances and rewriting old ordnances to bring these up to date. Examples may include driveway and parking pad issues along with lot size issues. We should also make sure we preserve individual neighborhoods. I do not want each section of Isanti to be the same as every other section of the city. There also needs to be a review of what commercial properties should be located next to a residential neighborhood.

Tree preservation is a key issue. We can all see the effects of clear cutting acres of land then building homes only to replant hundreds of tiny trees. Many of these new trees die and will not provide the shade and landscaping value for decades to come. We need to put in place criteria to direct developers to save as much natural tree growth as possible.

The final item is the “Owners List”. I came up with the idea as I was riding along with a City of Isanti building inspector. This would be a list of items that the new home owner should be made aware of. These may include landscaping and tree requirements, fencing and home modification ordnances. This will be a list I hope to compile in the next 6 months talking with builders and home owners. This list would help better prepare new residents moving into the city of Isanti. I will be happy to hear any suggestions you may have.

Squad Car Update

I have read the police report regarding this accident. I will be asking further questions. This report seems to not be as complete as I would expect.

****update****

The report and my questions have been all answered by the Isanti Police Department. This accident has been handled in a very professional manner. Thankfully no one was hurt.

Bad Star Rising

Once again our friends at the Star have written another work of fiction. The factual issues start with the EDA budget. This is the first we have budgeted anything for the EDA. The story states that the budget was cut by $50,000. The proposed budget was cut by $20,000 leaving $30,000 in the budget. The next issue is the funding for the trail along 23. The $60,000 is sitting in a fund started last year. The $60,000 was not cut from the budget it was transferred from 2005 to 2006. This trail is a high priority for me and will be funded. Public works had no staff cut. They had one of 2 requested fulltime employees reduced to one fulltime and 2 part-time employees. Public works staff will increase by 1 fulltime and 2 part-time. The 7.8% increase was on a split vote. 3-2. Kennedy and myself voted against this.

Isanti Fall Music Festival

The Isanti Fall Music Festival will be September 17th. This is a celebration of the City of Isanti. This is a free event with a car show, kids’ games and street dance with the Lamont Cranston Blues Band. The car show and kids' games start at 2p. The Street Dance starts at 7pm. I have been a supporter of this event since it started 3 years ago. This concert brings attention to out Main St businesses. My dedication to reviving our Main Street is only continues to grow. If you or anyone you know is interested in being a vendor please let me know. I hope to see everyone there

Squad Car

I have received several questions regarding the accident involving a City of Isanti Police Officer. I will be receiving a copy of the accident report soon. The accident occurred near the Elementary School building this past weekend. The Officer hit a partial opened gate. The Officer is fine but significant damage was done to the squad car. I will update after I have read the accident report.

City Administrator Interviews

The City Council met for four hours Wednesday the 17th for the first of two City Administrator interview sessions. These sessions start at 5pm and last until 9pm.We met with three candidates and will meet again Thursday the 18th with three more. We plan to have a second round of interviews with the finalist. The public is welcome to these interviews.

Budget Update

The Isanti City Preliminary Budget was discussed tonight. The initial budget request of 17% has been reduced to a 7.8% increase. This increase is still too high. The preliminary number is the highest property taxes can be raised. This is however not a final number. The Council has to set the preliminary number before the final valuations are received from the County. This makes the process difficult at best.

One cut that would have brought the final preliminary number to a 1% increase is an Administrative Assistant. The position, including pay and benefits, is over $50,000. This position was left in by consensus of Mayor Apitz and Council Members Johnson and Larson. Council Member Kennedy and I voted against this addition. We have added a Financial Director and City Planner to the staff this year. We need to wait and see how these positions evolve before anymore positions are added.

The focus of the increases is the Public Works department. This is caused by the need to replace aging equipment and to bring staffing up to an acceptable level. We have reduced 1 fulltime request and replaced with part-time help during the summer months when mowing is at its height. The Public Works request is a direct result from the rapid residential growth we are experiencing.

The fulltime police officer requested for 2006 was also removed from the budget. This I am sure will become a greater need for the 2007 budget.

I also asked to have some more follow-up in the deficit being run in the Water and Sewer Fund. This was caused by the previous Council’s vote to change the billing formula. This has to be rectified. We can not operate at a net loss of revenues.

I believe there should be no increase in property taxes. We need to keep the budget as tight as possible every step of the way. We need to be careful of the idea that we can always cut the budget later. I think this can be dangerous. We do not need to spend all the money we raise. We should be looking for ways to reduce the property tax burden on our citizens.

I will be writing more about this process in the next few days detailing more specifics.

City Council Aug 16th, 17th and 18th

This week will be busy for the Isanti City Council. We have our regular scheduled Council meeting Tuesday August 16th.

We will be considering bids for Audio/Visual equipment, furniture, phone system and cabling for the New City Hall. These costs are well over $100,000.

The second big issue that will be discussed is the 2006 Street Projects. The west end of Main Street that intersects C.S.A.H. 23, East Main St. from Railroad Avenue to Penny Ln, Richard Ave, Elizabeth St and Broadway are part of the proposed improvements for 2006.

The third big issue will be the Proposed 2006 budget. There are many new expenditure proposals. The overall budget with all requests would increase over 30%. I have made a commitment not to raise taxes this year. We must make the new growth pay for itself. We have roughly $500,000 in new revenues at the current tax rate. This is almost a 19% increase in total revenues. If we do not balance our budget with this principle our Property Taxes will spiral out of control.

I urge people to attend this meeting to help shape the budget process.

Remember that decisions are made by those who show up.

The Council will also be meeting the 17th and 18th to interview City Administrator candidates. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the hiring process of a new City Administrator please call or e-mail.

Rum River Meadows Park Build

I would like to thank the dozens of volunteers who helped with the Rum River Meadows Park build. We each gave up a beautiful Saturday to create a playground for our children. This community build has two great benefits. The first benefit is the thousands of dollars the volunteer workers save the City of Isanti. This does put more pressure on city staff however. The Park and Public Works Departments did an excellent job preparing the site and finalizing the park build. The second benefit is the ownership felt by each volunteer as they constructed the equipment. This is one more example of the community spirit that thrives in Isanti. Again I thank all the volunteers and City Staff for the great work and dedication put into making this park a reality.

Rum River Classic

The Rum River Classic is August 13th. This is a fund raising bike event. The money raised is for the Bike/Walk Trail between Isanti and Cambridge. If you have any questions or would like to volunteer at the Isanti rest stop please call me at 763-444-7158.

Budget Update

The City Council met August 8th in special session to discuss the 2006 Budget. I laid out my stance of no increase in the property tax levy. I also stated my governing philosophy that the city’s growth needs to pay for itself. This ensures that any new growth does not cause current resident’s property taxes to increase. The initial budget, with all department requests, would be a 37.32% increase over 2005. The 2005 budget is $2,677,601 and the initial 2006 is $3,676,956.

The good news is that the Local Government Aid (state aid) has increased by $112,227. The city budget has also increased from the new homes that were purchased last year. This growth has slowed however but will rise once again with the East Highway 65 development.

Each City Department has made their “wish list” request. Public Works has the most requests totaling $280,000. This is due to the need to replace several old pieces of equipment. Public Works is also requesting two fulltime employees. One of these fulltime positions may be offset by part time help during the busy summer months. This has not been done in Isanti before but can allow the fulltime employees to do other work while the mowing of parks, trails and city land is done by part time help at a lower rate, thus saving the city money.

The Police Department has requested one more full time officer and another squad car.

City Administration has asked for an administrative assistant to help several departments with paper work and phone calls.

This is just the beginning of this process. The final numbers will need to be much less. I will be providing more information in the next few days on specific request and the needs of the city.

August 3rd Council Update

The August 3rd City Council meeting had a few heated moments centering on the issue of Brian Iverson’s continued membership on the EDA. Council Member Johnson acknowledges he has a conflict of interest since he is doing work for Mr. Iverson. Council Member Johnson did however continue to speak on Mr. Iverson’s behalf during the discussion. This is a violation of the City of Isanti Conflict of Interest Policy. I question him on this and he continued to speak. I stated the following reasons for my objections to his continued EDA membership:

1. Iverson is developing large tracts of residential and commercial property giving him tremendous financial and political power in Isanti.

2. As an EDA member Iverson can steer the city into buying parcels of land.

3. He is unable to clearly understand what a conflict of interest is. The point was made in the joint session meeting of July 19th that he would know when a conflict arises. Two examples from a recent EDA meeting: According to the EDA minutes of June 28th he was intent on acting as an agent for the city in land negotiation. According to the EDA minutes of June 28th he wanted the city to buy the golf course so it is not developed. Iverson owns considerable land abutting the golf course. Leaving the golf course as is would reduce competition for his residential development. Residential property abutting a golf course general has an increased value.

4. As an EDA member Iverson has unequaled access to council members and city staff.

5. As a member of an appointed body Iverson has been given the cities stamp of approval.

6. This position puts all others who are in competition with Iverson at a dramatic disadvantage.

7. The City of Isanti should show no favoritism to any developer who currently has projects before the city.

8. Finally the idea that the largest developer in Isanti is also contracting with a City Council Member is in itself a troubling issue.

Mayor Apitz and Council Member Sue Larson also defended Mr. Iverson’s continued EDA Membership. After the debate I motioned to remove Mr. Iverson from the EDA. Council Member Kennedy seconded the motion. The Mayor and Council Member Larson voted against with Johnson abstaining. The vote of 2-2 means the motion fails. Mr. Iverson will continue on the EDA

Park Build

We will be doing the Rum River Meadows Park build August 6th. The letters went out and the papers have published information. We have a good start of volunteers but could always use more. Here is what we need from the letter that went out to local residents.

City of Isanti Citizen-

The City of Isanti Park & Recreation Department is requesting your help! We are constructing a new park in the southwest corner of our City in between South Passage and Rum River Drive SW called “Rum River Meadows Park”. This park will have a 2 to 5 year old play equipment, 5 to 12 year old play equipment, picnic tables, swings, swinging bench, and lots of fun. The Community Build for Riverside Park is August 6, 2005 starting at 7am, hopefully ending at 3pm (ish). We are building rain or shine!

The following are ways that you can help:
- We need at least 20 volunteers.
Volunteer shifts:
-7am to 11am
-11am to 3pm
Types of volunteers:
-Building the structure.
-1st Aid, refreshment, sign in and information area
-The day before (08.06.05) we need help unloading the truck and inventorying the equipment; and digging holes.
-Equipment (please mark your name on your tools!!):
-wheelbarrow. -3/8 inch drive sockets & wrenches (also 9/16 & 1/4inch)
-shovels -tape measures
-hand levels -step ladders
-vise grips -utility knives
-cordless power drill -pitchforks
-generator -power saw
-skid loader with an auger bit
If you can let me know what you plan to bring, it will help in planning.

Refreshments, Snacks and Lunch will be provided for the volunteers as a way to thank you.

Please let me know if you are able to help, loan equipment, etcetera to help this day become spectacular. To call: 444.7158 or e-mail: Council Member George Wimmer george.wimmer@genesiswireless.us, or Myself at 444.5512 cvita@ci.isanti.mn.us.

Council Meeting August 3rd

The August 3rd council Meeting has two topics that seem to be drawing a lot of attention. First is the approval of the Millwork for the New City Hall. Council Member Johnson has submitted a quote. His quote is the lower of the two that were received. I however have been given no information of what will be built. I have also received dozens of calls and comments regarding this process. All have questioned how it is fair for a Council Member to bid on a city job. I also have great apprehension on this process. I have been told some did not bother to quote feeling the “fix” was in for Council Member Johnson. I will be unable to vote either way until more information is produced on what will actually be built for each quote.

The other item I have received calls and comments on is the discussion of Brian Iverson continuing to serve the City on the EDA. He has great economic power already from being the Isanti’s biggest developer. He is also developing a large tract of commercial property. These two points alone cause a per se conflict. Many individuals and companies that have worked with and in competition with Mr. Iverson have complained about his representing the City on such an important and powerful appointed body. Citizens of Isanti also question how this can be a fair and transparent process. How can anyone compete with Mr. Iverson when they come in front of the City Council? With his membership on the EDA Mr. Iverson also has tremendous access to other Council Members that no other developer has. I hope to have an honest and open discussion of his continued service on the EDA.

Both of these issues go to the core of what is perceived as the “Old Boy Network”. We must strive for fairness and transparency in all that we do in the name of the City of Isanti.

Eminent Domain and Voting

In the recent Supreme Court ruling KELO ET AL. v. CITY OF NEW LONDON ET AL, individual property rights have been severely curtailed.
Justice O'Conner Writes:

"Under the banner of economic development, all private property is now vulnerable to being taken and transferred to another private owner, so long as it might be upgraded i.e., given to an owner who will use it in a way that the legislature deems more beneficial to the public"

The idea that local government is allowed to take the private property of person A and give it to person B or developer/corporation B is contrary to our very liberty. When we buy our home we believe we have certain inalienable rights. One of these rights surely must be the decision to keep it or sell it as the owner wishes. Alexander Hamilton said that “security of property is one of the great objects of government”. This has been dealt a death blow in the name of “Progress”. Justice O’Conner also states there are two conditions on the exercise of eminent domain. These are “the taking must be for public use” and “just compensation”. She further adds:

“Together they ensure stable property ownership by providing safeguards against excessive, unpredictable, or unfair use of the government’s eminent domain power particularly against those owners who, for whatever reasons, maybe unable to protect themselves in the political process against the majority’s will.”
I do not deny the fact that in certain extreme situations the government may need to take property. This bar however is to be set extremely high. The bar should not be the simple act of enriching one person, developer, or corporation.

Justice O’Conner also makes the follow important point:

"Any property may now be taken for the benefit of another private party, but the fallout from this decision will not be random. The beneficiaries are likely to be those citizens with disproportionate influence and power in the political process, including large corporations and development firms. As for the victims, the government now has license to transfer property from those with fewer resources to those with more. The Founders cannot have intended this perverse result."

This “perverse result” is the enemy of the democratic process. The rich and powerful should not have more power in the political arena. Each citizen has one vote and should have equal influence. The large corporation or developer never has their property taken from them and given to the small homesteader. There is no equality or justice in this process.

The only benefit I see coming from this tragic decision is that perhaps more citizens will vote. The vote is important because local governments must still make the final decision to “take” property from A to give to B. Ask those who run for local office what they would do. It is in the city councils, county boards and school boards that the decisions that most affect our lives are made. Yet these offices are the most neglected in our electoral process. Many go unopposed and unchallenged. It is detrimental to our democratic process to have elected officials who are never challenged or have to answer the hard questions.

Citizens need to go to their city council, county board and school board meetings. You need to be aware of the decisions that are being made in your name. Make your voices heard and participate in the democratic process we have as our birth right. We are truly blessed to live in this country but we also have a great responsibility to ensure that we preserve these liberties to the generations yet to come.

Joint Meeting Update

The joint meeting accomplished a few items. Training was stressed for every appointed position. The Mayor had stated he had heard "rumors" of folding the EDA into the City Council. I have sent this as one of my suggestions to the EDA for consideration. The Mayor stated his opposition to this idea. Other EDA members commented that this would add more hours of work to City Council Members. Work is what we signed up for when we ran for office. I look forward to the EDA's statements on this question. The Mayor came to the defense of Brian Iverson's membership on the EDA. The Mayor once again stated he had heard rumors that people were questioned if Mr. Iverson's membership was a conflict. Again this is one of the questions I have asked the EDA to address. This is an issue that needs to be resolved.

I was happy to hear that the Planning Commission Chair was very happy with 7 members on the Planning Commission. He felt this worked very well and added greatly to the process.

Parks & Recreation was brought up next. I stated that although I have great love for parks and am happy with the continued growth in our park and trail system. The maintenance cost is also increasing. The new parks are paid for with development money. This cost the citizens of Isanti nothing. The mowing and maintenance comes out of the City Budget. This will in time account for a full time employee to simply mow and maintain the parks. There will also be replacement cost to consider as our parks age. I asked that we all think of these cost as we continue our budgeting process.

This meeting, although short, was beneficial and I hope we will continue to work directly with these appointed bodies.

Police Commission

Council Member Kennedy and I will be meeting with Police Chief Sager. We make up the Police Commission. This meeting will revolve around policing policy and budget request. This meeting will be set in the next few days. I will be happy to hear any comments or suggestions to better our police presence in Isanti.

Joint Meeting

On July 19th at 5:00 pm at the Creamery Crossing the Isanti City Council will be meeting with the members of Isanti’s appointed Boards and Commission. This includes the EDA, Planning Commission and Park & Recreation Board. The goal is to discuss Council objectives with the appointed bodies. The public is welcomed as this is an open meeting. I will be stressing training for all members. This is needed as many of the task in front of these appointed bodies are quite complex. The meeting will also although who serve on this board to ask questions of the Council. I hope to see the public at this meeting to observe this process.

Hotel Isanti

At the July 12th Planning Commission meeting a hotel sketch plan was proposed for the old burger top location. There are many details to yet be worked out. I am however excited by the prospect of a business that will help drive traffic to our Main St business district. Isanti is in need of a hotel. When we have events like last weeks Rodeo and Jubilee Days, it is important to have a place for guess to stay. As more details become available I will share them with you.

Definition

Rhetoric:

The art or study of using language effectively and persuasively. A treatise or book discussing this art. Skill in using language effectively and persuasively.

I hope to use this blog as an open communication tool with the residents of Isanti.

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes have become more than a nuisance. They are quick becoming a health risk with the arrival of West Nile Virus. Many residents of Isanti are unable to enjoy their own yards with this unofficial bird of Minnesota. They can become so thick that we and our children have to stay in doors. One possible solution can be the City of Isanti spraying for these harmful pests. Many of us who have invested in our homes wish to be able to use them year round. I am considering a 3 or 4 season porch so I may have the chance to view my own back yard. I have heard from hundreds of residents with the same problem. I have asked the Isanti Public Works Department to investigate the cost of mitigating the mosquito population. I will address this in the budget process this summer and fall. I hope to have a cost established for mosquito control by the end of 2005. Cambridge’s program cost $1,000 per city wide spraying. If we have a cost effective plan I will then ask the City Council to consider a spraying program. I hope we may all be able to sit on our decks and enjoy the sound of our children outside.

Isanti Rodeo and Jubilee Days

I would like to thank The Isanti Firefighters Rodeo Association and the Isanti Chamber of Commerce for all their hard work. The Isanti Rodeo and Jubilee Days brings thousands of people to our Great City. This becomes ever more important with our planned commercial growth. The people that are brought into Isanti will spend their entertainment dollars here once the commercial properties are developed. This will mean spreading out our cities tax burden and help to alleviate our residential property tax payers. The City of Isanti must never forget the hard work done by these two important groups. Our future growth and planning must take these events and others into consideration. I again thank the Isanti Firefighters Rodeo Association and Isanti City Chamber of Commerce for all their hard work and dedication. I will always fight to keep them a part of Isanti's future.

Walking Tour

I will be continuing my walking tour of Isanti July 12th. This walking tour will take several weeks to complete. My intent is to talk with as many residents as possible to make sure I am addressing the concerns of Isanti. I will also be explaining my positions and laying out the goals I have for our Great City. I hope to see you soon.

Attempt to Remove

There was a second attempt by Council Member Johnson to replace me with council Member Larson on the committee directing City Staff Department Heads. This second attempt was successfully put off. The Mayor and myself serve on the Personnel Committee. This committee has been authorized by the City Council to fill the void left by the non-renewal of the City Administrator. This work will continue until a new city administrator is hired. The Mayor and myself work together to give guidance to Department Heads as they need. This has been a developing process during this difficult time. Any major decision would need full Council approval.

Rum River Meadows Park

The community build for Rum River Meadows Park is planned for August 6th rain or shine. A letter will be going out to the community to ask for volunteers and a list of items to bring to the build. I am excited to have a park serving this section of Isanti. So many have helped in the planning and equipment choices. I would like to thank everyone for their hard work. I hope to see many helpful hands as we build a park we can all be proud of. If you have any questions on how you may help, please contact me @ 444-7158 or george.wimmer@genesiswireless.us.

Contract work

Much has been said regarding Mr. Jacobson's contracted work. I had decided to support and negotiate a contract with him to finish several developer agreements and the codification of Isanti's ordnances. These are time sensitive projects. This work is being done at his normal rate of pay. This will not cost the city anymore than his normal salary and benefits contribution. This work will be supervised directly by the Mayor and myself. This work will be approved by the council each time we meet. Mr. Jacobson's technical experience will be used to bridge the gap until we have a new City Administrator. This will be a win/win for all involved.

Public Launching

I will be making this blog public in the next week. You will be reading my thoughts and concerns regarding the City of Isanti. I will be updating this blog twice weekly. I hope all will find this to be informative and thought provoking.

EDA

I have sent the following questions to the Isanti EDA(Economic Development Authority):

"I would like the following questions directed to the EDA.

First, has the EDA considered the JOBZ program and what was your conclusion? Secondly does the EDA plan to use the Isanti Business Retention and Expansion Plan. Thirdly does having a developer of commercial property serve as a member of this board cause a conflict of interest? Lastly I would like to have the Isanti EDA consider the benefits of folding itself into the City Council. This has been successfully completed in many cities throughout Minnesota including our neighbor Cambridge."

These are important questions vital to our commercial development and economic vitality.