March 8th City Council Update

I picked a few highlights from last nights Council meeting are:

Amending Fee Schedule
Small Grants Presentation
MCCF Information
30 West Main
Blue Cross Blue Shield Contract
New City Hall Costs

The City Council tabled action on raising City Fees. Council Member Johnson did not feel it was appropriate to raise the Park and Recreation fees. The Park and Recreation fees are charged to developers. The money raised from this fee can only be used for new park construction or new land acquisition. Isanti is well below the region in the fees charged. Developers are getting a bargain and should pay a fair rate for developing in Isanti. I do not believe the Council should give developers special protection

I had a problem with the fees Isanti Citizens pay. These include a 38% rate increase for garage additions, 13% increase for decks, 40% for re-siding and a 50% increase for re-roofing. Council Member Kennedy and I felt that it is wrong to raise the rates on our citizens so much. The idea that we are keeping rates low on developers and raising them on individual citizens is wrong.

The rate structure was tabled so we could further debate the proposed rate increases.

The Small Cities Grant was tabled because the funds were not available to pay for the grant writing. The Council will debate whether we want to use taxpayer funds to pay for this activity.

The original funds for the grant writing were to come from a TIF district. Unfortunately a business has not paid their taxes from last year.

The Minnesota Community Capital Fund, MCCF, was presented. The MCCF is a financing tool used to give low interest loans to member community businesses. This financial tool can help businesses to grow and expand in Isanti. This is critical to all existing businesses. I have included the link to their website for more information. http://mncommunitycapitalfund.org/. I hope all area businesses take a look and give me feedback if they feel this is important to Isanti.

30 West Main was discussed last night. This is the City owned property that is at the corner of Main St and 1st. It is often used as a quasi parking lot. The City Council has direct staff to include this at the next work session. We will need to see options for this lot. I believe we should sell this excess property. The key however is it needs to be apart of an overall plan for Downtown parking. Isanti has the familiar problem of parking downtown. This lot has been used as overflow parking.

If we simply shut it down, and sell it without an overall plan we will cause more parking issues and will be a detriment to downtown businesses. We must help create a solution and not cause even more pain to Main Street.

The Council last night approved a Park and Recreation action to apply for a Blue Cross Blue Shield funds. These funds will be used to pay for various marketing of our Cities Trails and Parks. I believe it is important to pay for these options with grant type money. This is a tremendous cost savings for our Taxpayers.

We had an update to City Hall Cost. The total cost for City hall to date is $1,555,784.21 with a $25,000 contingency. I have stated repeatedly that we can not afford to spend anymore on City Hall. We are already 30% over budget. If there is a need for more spending it must be taken out of other spending. We must stop this slow bleeding of money.

Fee Schedule Update

I have received an update from City staff on the 1994 to 1997 fee schedule. The following are the 3 new percentage increases.

Garage 38% increase

Addition 12% increase

Deck 13% increase

This on top of dramatic increases in other fees to our citizens, some reaching 50%. I have seen no logical or legal reason for raising fees this dramatically.

Main Street Development

I have talked to a few Main Street businesses about a comprehensive plan of action for revitalization. This was started due to the City possibly selling 30 West Main. This is the corner NE corner of Main and 1st. This is currently used as over flow parking.

I have stated that I approve of selling excess City land. The issue now is where do we allow parking when Main Street traffic increases. I will be asking we table the sale of the land until the EDA has a comprehensive plan for Main Street.

We can not take action in an ad hoc fashion. We need to plan for the future or we will have tremendous cost in solving future problems.

Party Caucus March 7th

Party Caucuses are March 7th. I hope everyone attends. If you, as many people, do not belong to an organized party you should still pick a caucus and observe the proceedings. We can all learn a lot by participating or watching the caucus process. Decisions are made by those who show up.

http://www.isanticountydfl.com/ Isanti County Democrats

http://www.mistercambridge.com/republicans/ Isanti County Republicans

http://www.lpmn.org/ Minnesota Libertarian Party

http://www.mnip.org/ Minnesota Independent Party

http://www.mngreens.org/ Minnesota Green Party

http://www.isanticountynews.com/2006/March/1caucus.html
Link to published Caucus locations in the Isanti County News.

Artic Plunge

I did the Plunge....and yes it was cold. It seemed to be a bit colder as we all watched the large 2-3 foot blocks cut out of the ice. I was one of the last jumpers to take the plunge and was able to see some of the creative costumes.

There was a large crowd for this Fire Fighter fund raiser. I was happy to play my small part in this event. It was a lot of fun and I will make sure to do it again next year. This is another example of a great community coming together for a terrific cause.

I would like to thank the organizers for their hard work. Volunteers never receive the credit they deserve. Thanks to all those who make this a special event.

Mailing list

If you would like to be on my Blog and City updates list please e-mail me and let me know. The list is confidential.

george.wimmer@genesiswireless.us

March 8th City Council Meeting.

City Council meeting on Wednesday March 8th includes the following key items:

1.Amending Fee Schedule
2.Small Cities Grant Presentation
3.Sale of City property at 30 West Main.
4.Final City Hall cost of $1,555,784.21
5.New City Hall cost $25,000

1.The new fee schedule has extensive rate increases. The specific fees that concern me are the building fees. Many of these fees have dramatic rate increases of 40% to 50%. These are the fees that you and I pay as individuals. There is also the nebulous increase in deck and basement fees from the 1994 to the 1997 structure. I had asked for examples of this increase in dollars. This has yet to be provided.

2.I wanted the Small Cities Grant tabled from the last City Council meeting so the City could get more than one bid to administer the grant writing. The only applicant also has a relationship with another City Vendor. The second bid the City received looks to be $5000, or almost 30% less than the previous quote. I hope that City staff will in future do due diligence and receive multiple quotes.

3.The sale of this property seems to be the best thing for the City as a whole. I do not think Government entities should be in the business of owning excess property. This move does however cause a parking issue downtown. I want to create a committee of Main Street Businesses to work on the parking problem. This would follow on the heels of the Sign Sub-committee that has been incredible successful. This is a partnership with business that will succeed.

4.The cost of City Hall was roughly 30% over budget. This has been a failure in city planning. The full budget was not revealed until the middle of 2005. This was a failure in city Council oversight that must strive not to repeat.

5.I will not tolerate any more spending on City Hall that is not cut from somewhere else in the Budget. Enough said.

Park and Recreation Board Meeting

The Park and Recreation Board heard from representatives of the School district tonight. The points I came away with are:

1. The School District has provided the land and is developing sports fields.
2. The PTO, parent Teacher Organization is raising funds for play ground equipment.
3. The $24,000 is a small amount of the total being spent.
4. The District interprets the City Council Resolution in as broad a way as possible.

My Response:

1. The ball fields will be scheduled through Community ED and I am sure will be full most of the time

2. If the PTO did not exist then I would assume there would be no equipment. The City also passed the Resolution dealing with the School District not the PTO. The District seems to be triple dipping into the tax payers pocket. First with the initial bonding issue, secondly with the $24,000 in waived fees and lastly by having parents, who have already given twice, buy products their children sell to raise funds.

This last one seems to bother me more than most. One P&R Board member thought it was great to have kids sell. I do not. I am not sure when this happened but we seem to use our children as fund raisers more and more. It was mentioned that it was a Civic Duty for the children. Amazing how Civic Duty has been so twisted. I will not be surprised if the School District sends our kids out to raise money so they can be bused to school.

This is a philosophical argument I know. I did my "Civic Duty" and bought $24 from the PTO fund raiser. I worry that we continue to dip into the same pocket of the same taxpayers and it will run dry. The City of Isanti is below the state average in household income. There is already resentment over busing, activity fees and a bonding bill that our residents rejected. How many times can the taxpayer be pushed until they start to push back. We have hard working citizens in Isanti that expect their elected leaders to get the job done right the first time and not to come back with hat in hand.

3. If the $24,000 is such a small amount of money I will be happy to take it back.

4. I am extremely disappointed that the School District has taken an act of good faith and stretched it beyond reason. I have learned that if we ever partner with the District or other political entity that every detail will be spelled out verbatim.

The Park and Recreation Board approved Aluna Design to start work on a Park and Rec website and logo. This must then get aprroved by the city Council. This website will have maps and directions to city parks and trails. We will also have other information posted.

The Board will do the annual park tour the 4th Tuesday of April.

Repost of Artic Plunge

I am reposting the Artic Plunge information. It is only one week away.

Artic Plunge

I will be participating in the Artic Plunge. Yes I will be taking the big dip in the frigid waters of Long Lake. I am of course assuming that winter will make another appearance this year.

I have included the Artic Plunge information. I hope everyone will attend. This is a charity event for our Fire Fighters.

The 4th annual Artic Plunge is Saturday March 4th 2006.

Location: Sunrise Resort Bar & Grill on Long Lake

Events include:
8 a.m. registration for the 10 a.m. Vintage Snowmobile Races
1 p.m. Ice Cutting Demonstration by the Englund Family
2 p.m. Artic Plunge into Long Lake

Please call 612-282-6246 for information on taking the “Plunge”

4 p.m. Musicmen DJ service

There will be a meat raffle, raffle tickets and refreshments.

All proceeds will be donated to the Isanti Fire Department.

Please contact Carrie @ 612-282-6246 or Sue @ 763-234-9691 with any questions.

911 District Playground Update

The Park and Recreation Board will be discussing 911 School Districts lack of communication regarding the Isanti Intermediate School's playground. Please read, http://georgewimmer.blogspot.com/2006/02/more-alarming-news-from-district-911.html, for further background information. The District has been contacted by Our City Administrator, the Park and Recreation Board, and by myself.

There has been zero response. If the School District does not respond soon I will be asking the Park and Recreation Board and City Council to request our $24,000 back in waived fees. Again these fees were waived by City Council Resolution because the Intermediate School would be providing a park/playground.

The City has asked for a School District representative to come to the next City Council work session with no response. The Park and Recreation Board will be asking for a representative to be at our next meeting.

Communication is the key to any successful relation, we are sadly lacking that in this case.

Eminent Domain and Party Politics

Wade Vitalis, Chisago County Democratic Chair, recently asked how many people in Isanti or Chisago counties are living under the threat of Eminent Domain. The Citizens of the City of Isanti, estimated at 5,000, dealt with this issue in 2005. A local resident is currently struggling under the Eminent Domain process. The City Council on a vote of 3-2, I voted against, decided to take a Highway 65 access from an individual and place it to the benefit of Isanti’s largest developer.

This can happen to any of us. The idea that local government can take from the individual and give to large developers or corporations is the very tyranny our forefathers fought against in the Revolutionary War. All citizens must be given an equal chance to succeed. The improper use of Eminent Domain strikes at the very core of fairness and equality for all.

Property taxes are a concern for the two counties residents. If Mr. Vitalis lived in the City of Isanti he would have realized an almost 8% reduction in property taxes.

The greater point is if Mr. Vitalis would concentrate on democratic, with a small d, ideas and not Democratic Party politics we would be able to resolve the Eminent Domain and property tax issues.

Strong debate by all sides is what makes America great. We should however refrain from attributing evil intent to anyone’s position. The main issue I have with Mr. Vitalis is he is attributing deceptive or pandering to Senator Nienow.

I personally wrote Senator Nienow a letter last year asking the Legislator to protect the individual property owner from local government tyranny. I wrote last year against Eminent Domain, which was a non-election year.

The battle of ideas will determine who represents us at all levels of government. I suggest Mr. Vitalis reads Thomas Paine’s Common Sense. This will give you a base for the argument against the destructive use of Eminent Domain.

February 21st City Council Update

The Exotic Animal Ordinance was tabled to have the Planning Commission review the City Attorney's comments. The Planning Commission will discuss this at the March 14th meeting.

Community Pride Bank was approved for immediate operation. The bank will initially operate out of a double wide bank trailer. The permanent structure will be built this summer with expected completion in early fall.

We discussed the Small Cities Grant. The grant will be a useful tool for continued revitalization of the Main Street Business District. I had a deep concern there was only one quote. The quote is for a company to do the application of the grant. The quote the City received was for $17,000. I told staff that if we are going to spend this much money we need at least two quotes. The company that applied has a relationship with another City contractor. I stated this can have the appearance of impropriety, especially if there are no other quotes. I believe that we always need to be above reproach when spending City funds. I moved to table this action until the next Council Meeting. There will need to be at least one other quote.

The City Council voted to approve the extension of the City sidewalk along County 23. This action will create a safe route along highway 23 from South Passage to Isanti Parkway. This was a personal goal from the moment I started to run for City Council.

The City Conflict of Interest Policy was reviewed by the City Attorney. I asked if we could have applicants for City Boards and Commissions fill out the Conflict of Interest forms when they apply. This is important to consider and will hopefully avoid having commissioners and board members who have conflicts of interest. We need to have Citizens serving without a personal or financial stake in business before the City.

Isanti County Environmental Coalition

I have asked the Isanti County Environmental Coalition, ICEC, to speak at the March 14th Planning Commission meeting. They will be presenting information on the importance of incorporating environmental impacts into our Comprehensive Plan. This information will help us to be good stewards of our City and environment. I believe it is important to learn as much as we can from all sources. The information that the ICEC presents will be integral in making sure Isanti does its part preserving our environment.

We have a duty ensure proper land use. This also has the added benefit of maintaining higher home values. Trails with nature viewing would be an added benefit for home owners. This may not seem like a need today but in 50 years this whole area will look just like Coon Rapids.

Lets keep Isanti unique and special. We must incorporate green space and wildlife corridors in our planning to ensure that Isanti’s natural beauty will be seen for generations to come.

February 21st Council Meeting

I have picked out a few of the important items from the February 21st Council meeting. We will be reviewing the Exotic Animals Ordinance. The Planning Commission has been working on this for the last few months. I have been suprised that there has been no public input. This is amazing considering all the issues the County and townships have been facing regarding this issue.

Community Pride Bank will be presenting there site plan and asking for a Conditional Use Permit for their upcoming bank project. The bank would be located east of Highway 65 in the Fairway Greens development. This will add a third banking institution to Isanti. I am strong believer that competition in all areas makes Isanti a stronger community.

I have asked that the County Highway 23 sidewalk be included in the 2006 street construction and repair. If this is included there will be either a trail or sidewalk the entire distance of 23 on one side or the other. This coupled with the 23 and 5 intersection work and trail extension will give all of us, especially children, a safe route along this busy county highway. This sidewalk is a high priority and needs to be approved.

The City has an opportunity to lower City employee insurance rates. The savings to Isanti is 22.4% for the same coverage. This equates to $63,546 a year in savings cost. This is fantastic news for Isanti City Taxpayers. It is rare to be able to lower health insurance cost and maintain the same high level of coverage. City staff has done a good job in this process.

The City Attorney will be reviewing the Conflict of Interest Policy. This is incredibly important to the fair and transparent use of City power. All Citizens rich or poor need to know they will receive the exact same level of service. I feel strongly that all Citizens and Taxpayers must be treated equally and know their elected officials are not influenced by personal gain, financial or otherwise.

The Police Department will be asking to fill the two vacant part time Officer positions. This will bring the Police force back to its previous level. I hope there can be agreement to bring the Police force to this subsistence level.

Clarification

The letter in the Isanti County News from Planning Commissioner Duff had incorrect information. There will not be a hearing of the Sign Ordinance at the February 14th Planning Commission meeting. The title for this letter, apparently chosen by the paper, makes it appear as though a hearing is set for the February meeting. There will be a quick update on the progress made. Commission input will also be asked for. The Sign Sub-Committee plans to have this ready for a public hearing at the March 14th Planning Commission meeting.

All public hearings are posted by City staff. I hope this clears up any confusion.

911 Update

Isanti City Staff met with District 911 staff regarding only the School Resource Officer, SRO. The School District and City staff will work out a solution to be reviewed by our Police Commission. I am hopeful this issue can be resolved.

The subject of the School Park has yet to be resolved. The City of Isanti passed a resolution in 2005 waiving the Park Dedication Fees. These fees are estimated to be over $20,000. The School District would be in violation of this Resolution if the money they saved was not used for the park.

I will keep you updated.

More Alarming News from District 911

School District 911 has shown their disrespect to the Isanti City Taxpayer. The first issue is the playground at the new school in Isanti. This was originally presented to the City of Isanti as part of the school build. The City was asked to waive fees in excess of $20,000. These fees were waived in anticipation of this playground serving the entire neighborhood. The School District did not include the playground in the final build.

Now the School district will be sending out our children to raise the funds to build the playground. Our children will literally be responsible for the School Districts decision not to fund this park. If this is the School Districts decision then they should pay Isanti back the $20,000 plus dollars Isanti contributed to this project through fee reductions. The letter in the Cambridge Star is asking only Isanti Businesses and citizens to help pay. The Isanti Taxpayer should not pay a District expense. The children going to this school are not just Isanti City kids. Children from the surrounding townships will also be attending.

The second issue is the School Resource Officer. The School District and the City of Isanti have had a letter of understanding stating the District pays 68% of the School Resource Officer. Isanti has not received a single payment for 2005-2006 school year and is stilled owed more than $7,000 from 2004-2005. To add insult to injury, Cambridge is being paid for their School Resource Officer. Isanti City staff will be meeting with School District staff to resolve this issue.

As an Isanti City resident and Council Member I believe it is shameful to have the Taxpayers of Isanti pay District wide expenses. I would expect more from the District 911 School Board. I will not stop working on this issue until the City of Isanti is treated fairly.

City Council February 7th Meeting.

The Isanti City Council voted to install stop signs at County 23 and 5. These signs will have no bearing on the traffic lights scheduled to be installed after the end of this school year. We also voted to ask the County to do a speed study on Highway 23 on Isanti's southern border. This is done to move the speed zone south as the City continues to expand in this direction.

Brian Iverson had his assistant read his letter of resignation to the Council. I am glad we can now move on from this situation. I have been calling for his removal from the EDA since last August. The City can now select an individual that will not have the conflict of interest issues that surrounded MR. Iverson. My reasons are posted here: http://georgewimmer.blogspot.com/2005/08/august-3rd-council-update.html.

Federated Co-op laid out their vision of the remodeling of their facility on County highway 5. I am extremely excited by this project. This is the first business to take advantage of the Central Business District (CBD) Revitalization program. Isanti is on the verge of a tremendous reemergence of Isanti’s CBD.

The Council set March 8th for the Public Hearing regarding the City fee increases. Many of these fees will have dramatic increases. IF want to be heard make it to this meeting.

Sign Ordinance Sub-Committee

The Sign Ordinance Sub-Committee met February 1st. More progress has been made on temporary signs. We are looking at allowing temporary signs to be posted year round. These would be restricted in size and type. This is not a final decision but there seems to be broad agreement that 30 days is far to short a period of time.

I am strongly behind allowing businesses the flexible to use signage to bring in business. Many businesses have stated they bring in 40% to 60% of their business with temporary signs. The signage must however not be overwhelming. We must maintain an aesthetically appealing city.

We are working on a formula that allows businesses a portion of the total road frontage allowed. This means that if there are 5 businesses in a building each business would have 20% of the total allowed sign space. We are also looking at allowing businesses to buy the space allowance from their neighbors. These are just some of the ideas we are working on.

We are trying to use a high level of creativity to solve this problem and fix our current Sign Ordinance. Please contact me with any questions, concerns or helpful comments.

Comprehensive Plan

We had our 2nd Comprehensive Plan meeting Thursday February 2nd. This meeting was well attended. We have established a number of goals that will be further defined at the next meeting. No date has yet been set. The meeting that defines the broad goals will be incredible important. As they say the devil is in the details.

I will be laying out my thoughts in detail in the next few weeks.

Isanti County Environmental Coalition

I will be meeting with the Isanti County Environmental Coalition. I am trying to educate myself on enviromental issues. I am smart enough to know I need to learn as much as possible regarding enviremental impacts of development. Isanti is working on a Comprehensive Plan that determine land uses for up to 10 years. We need to make sure enviremental concerns are adressed. I will be discussing the following topics:

1. Isanti County Environmental Coalition input into the Comprehensive Plan.
2. Discussion on a County wide trail system.
3. Open green space incorporated into City planning.
4. Responsible Rum River recreational use.
5. Home building reducing wetlands.
6. Home owners filling in wetlands that abut their homes.
7. Isanti County Environmental Coalition input into home owners manual.
a. Home owners manual would be given to City residents.
b. This manual would contain ordinances and other important information.

I will inform you of what I have learned and discussed.

February 7th Council Meeting

There are a few important items on the February 7th Council Meetings.

The first item that I wish to discuss is the Business Subsidy for Federated Co-op. The subsidy is the first step in the overall Central Business Districts (CBD) Revitalization program. The subsidy is paid out of increased tax revenue. This revenue is generated when Federated builds a new facility. Isanti will continue to receive its current tax revenue. The new building will be more attractive and generate a higher level of tax revenue in the long term.

It is critical the first project in the CBD is a success. We have many more opportunities along Main Street. Success breeds success. We need to make sure this process continues with all the support we can muster.

The Council will be taking official action to request a speed study on Highway 23. This study will be conducted by the county. The goal is to move the City speed zone further south on Highway 23. As we extend the city limits the slower speed zones will need to follow suit.

The next agenda item I want to discuss is the option of having a 4 way stop at the intersection of Highway 23 and 5. This is a stop gap until the traffic light is installed. I am not convinced a 4 way stop will make the intersection safer. The end result may be more accidents unless the intersection has flashing lights or other clearly marked signs. I also fear long traffics lines on Highway 5. I am looking into this further and do not currently know which way I will vote on this proposal.

Mr. Iverson’s resignation form the EDA will be acted on. I have written previously on this topic. http://georgewimmer.blogspot.com/2006/02/eda-opening.html

The last major item is the City Fee schedule. The fee schedule ranges from developer to builder to citizen. All fees are being reviewed. City staff is requesting a raise in many areas. There are some significant possible increases. These range from dog impounding to deck and siding fees. I suggest if you want input into these fees you attend the Council meeting.

EDA Opening

Mr. Iverson resigned from the EDA, Economic Development Authority. Mr. Iverson's statement of resignation pointed to my continued questions of his membership. I have made the argument that Isanti’s largest developer should not serve on an appointed City board or commission. Please read the following post for more information.

http://georgewimmer.blogspot.com/2005/08/august-3rd-council-update.html

Isanti will be accepting applications for this position after Tuesday’s Council meeting. The City Council must first accept his resignation then direct staff to post for the open position. I hope we will find a City resident to fill this position. The EDA is a critical Board to the success of Isanti's business community. I will post more on this position in the future.

Isanti Council Work Session

This was my list of priorities for the goal setting session.

1.Define work direction for city staff.
2. Board and Commission reports to Council.Appointed Council Members give a 5 to 10 minute report to the full Council on objectives and projects that are being worked on.
3. Formation of Finance and Development Review Committees.
4. Establish monthly Council work sessions.
5. Mandatory Department Head management training.
6. Review of staff representation on outside boards.
7. Monthly Department reports to Council.
8. Department goal setting by Council.
9. Direction to Boards and Commissions on attendance.
10.Development impact fee.
11. Greater Chamber of Commerce involvement.

The Council met to discuss goals for the next two years. We had some heated discussion once again about my blog and the Isanti Police Department. All other items were handled in a cordial and professional manner.

Items 1, 2, 4, and 9 from my list were discussed and agreed to by all Council members. This includes staff being once again allowed to complete the Development Impact List.

There was agreement on forming a Development Review Committee but not a Finance Committee. We discussed department head training but no resolution was reached. We did not discuss staff representation on outside boards, development impact fees or greater Chamber of Commerce involvement. I hope to continue to push for these items. I have asked to have Staff representation on outside boards discussed at the next City Council meeting.

I asked for support of a 3 and 5 year budgeting plan. A 3 and 5 year budget plan will establish Isanti's priorities. We will be able to better understand the needs and obligations to our Citizens if we have a long term view. This long term view of budgeting will help reduce excessive City spending. Long term planning is the only way we can serve the needs of all Isantians.

The 3 and 5 year budget plan along with the Development Impact List will have the longest lasting affect on our Great City. These are not the sexiest items and will not get the most press, but our City will operate at a higher level after implementation. The concern was raised by other council Members that the time needed to develop these tools is not worth staff time. I could not disagree more. The Budget Plan and Development Impact List will allow City Staff to work smarter not harder. These tools will have great time and money savings.

Comprehensive Plan

The next Comprehensive plan meeting is Thursday February 2, 2006 starting at 7pm at City Hall. It is extremely important you attend. This plan will be the blue print for the next decade of city development.

Artic Plunge

I will be participating in the Artic Plunge. Yes I will be taking the big dip in the frigid waters of Long Lake. I am of course assuming that winter will make another appearance this year. I have included the Artic Plunge information. I hope everyone will attend. This is a charity event for our Fire Fighters.


The 4th annual Artic Plunge is Saturday March 4th 2006.

Location: Sunrise Resort Bar & Grill on Long Lake

Events include:

8 a.m. registration for the 10 a.m. Vintage Snowmobile Races

1 p.m. Ice Cutting Demonstration by the Englund Family

2 p.m. Artic Plunge into Long Lake
Please call 612-282-6246 for information on taking the “Plunge”

4 p.m. Musicmen DJ service

There will be a meat raffle, raffle tickets and refreshments. All proceeds will be donated to the Isanti Fire Department.

Please contact Carrie @ 612-282-6246 or Sue @ 763-234-9691 with any questions.

Cambridge County Market

The Cambridge County Market is converting to a Cub Foods according to the Isanti County News. Read the following article for further details.

http://www.isanticountynews.com/2006/January/27CountyMarket.html

City Work Session

The Isanti City Council will be meeting Tuesday 4pm-8pm January 31st at City Hall. We will be discussing procedures for directing city projects. This includes what authority city boards and commissions have to direct staff time. This became an issue when Mayor Apitz and Council Member Larson blocked staff from working on the Development Impact List. The full Council will be discussing goals for 2006.

I will be presenting the following list for Council consideration:

1. Define work direction for city staff.
2. Board and Commission reports to Council.
Appointed Council Members give a 5 to 10 minute report to the full Council on objectives and projects that are being worked on.
3. Formation of Finance and Development Review Committees.
4. Establish monthly Council work sessions.
5. Mandatory Department Head management training.
6. Review of staff representation on outside boards.
7. Monthly Department reports to Council.
8. Department goal setting by Council.
9. Direction to Boards and Commissions on attendance.
10.Development impact fee.
11. Greater Chamber of Commerce involvement.

I would like to hear from the public if they have other issues that need to be discussed. If you live, work or own property in Isanti you have a vested interest in the future of our great City. This is a public meeting if anyone wants to attend.

Sign Ordinance Sub-Committee 1/26/06 Update

The sub-committee met this morning and made progress on permanent signs. We have also discussed differentiating commercial/industrial and residential development signage. Progress has also been made with temporary signs. We will hopefully have draft language at the February 1st meeting.

Residential real-estate and development signage has been an issue of concern. We need to balance the business need with resident safety and aesthetic appeal. We discussed 1 larger sign per development and 1 information yard sign per lot. Real estate signage would allow two direction and 1 yard sign per home being sold. These are just two examples of the working process to date. IF you have any concerns or suggestions please let me know.

Email List

I have been asked again to inform you that if you would like to be added to my e-mail update list to let me know. Simply e-mail me at george.wimmer@genesiswireless.us and I will add you to the list. I generally send out 1 update every two weeks. This changes only if there is something important and urgent to make you aware of. This list is also confidential. No one knows you are on the list but me.

Sign Ordinance Sub-Committee 1/19/06 Update

The Sign Ordinance Sub-Committee met this morning to discuss the needed revisions to the current sign ordinance. We will be meeting again next Thursday to continue this process. The key points discussed today were:

Definition of permanent and temporary signs
Signs on buildings
Having several temporary sign categories
Signs in residential neighborhoods
Sign size
Sign aesthetics
Permit cost
Time allowed displaying sign

These topics and others will be worked on by city staff and this sub-committee. If you have any questions please let me know. I hope to have a draft ordinance by the Feb 14th Planning Commission meeting.

January 17 Council Meeting

On a tie vote of 2-2, Council Member Johnson was absent for the 2nd meeting in a row, the City Council refused to allow staff to work on the Development Impact List. Mayor Apitz and Council Member Larson praised the List and the good work accomplished but then voted to stop its progress. They seemed to be concerned that I had initiated this work. The Council will take this issue up at the January 31st work session. I hope to renew the work on the Development Impact List after this meeting. The work needs to be completed before Isanti starts being inundated with development plats for 2006. For further details please read the previous post.

The Council left all appointments at status quo for 2006. All board, commission and committee members will remain the same.

Progress is being made on the remodeling of the old City Hall. The Police Department will move to this location once the remodeling is completed.

January 17th Council Agenda

The Isanti City Council will be designating the City’s official service providers at the January 17th meeting. These include the Official Newspaper, garbage collector, bank depository, and many other essential city services.

Committee assignments will also be decided. There are 15 committee assignments and the position of Mayor Pro-Tem. These include but are not limited to EDA, Planning Commission, Liquor Committee, and Fire Board. These committees are essential to good governance.

The last issue I wish to discuss is the Development Impact List. This will be reviewed and discussed at Council. I had made the request to the Planning Commission and city staff to develop tools reporting the impact of development. 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. The goal of these tools is to bring a clearer focus to both the positive and the negative issues of our Rapid Residential Growth. It 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 the Development Impact List.

Isanti Annual Police Report

The Isanti Annual Police Report for 2005 has been completed and is available to the public. I have posted a number of the key statistics for the City of Isanti. The previous statistics I shared with you revealed Isanti County’s crime data.

I was happy to see Criminal Sexual Conduct has declined. The other key criminal statistics had dramatic increases. This report will now be updated monthly and available to the public. I believe providing as much information as possible to the public is critically important to making educated decisions on Isanti's priorities. I have served on the Police Commission and worked with Chief Sager to develop monthly reporting tools. This is one of several issues that the Police Commission has been working on.

This data once again shows the need for more policing in the City of Isanti. Our current police force has increased the miles they drive on patrol by 29%. These Officers are working hard. We need to give them the tools and resources needed to succeed.

Sign Ordinance Sub-committee

The Planning Commission established a sign ordinance sub-committee to create a draft ordinance for the Planning Commission to review. We will hopefully be meeting early next week. The intent is to have a draft ordinance to review by the February 14th Planning Commission meeting. The subcommittee will have 5 business members, 2 Planning Commission members, and 2 city staff members. I have the honor to serve with this group. Please let me know if you have any input into this process.

Sign Ordinance

The Planning Commission will be discussing revising the Sign Ordinance at the Tuesday January 10th meeting. This meeting is 7pm at Isanti City Hall. I encourage everyone to attend. I will be proposing a 6 step process over 3 months to correct this issue.

1st. The Planning Commission will adopt a draft Ordinance at the January meeting.

2nd This Draft will then be disseminated to the Business Community.

3rd All comments will then be due back in time for the February Planning Commission meeting.

4th The Planning Commission will then incorporate these comments into the process.

5th The Planning Commission will then recommend the Draft Ordinance to City Council at the March Planning Commission meeting.

6th The City Council will then approve or deny the Draft Ordinance at the last Council meeting in March.

I will also recommend that there be a 3 month moratorium on the current ordnance enforcement unless there is an egregious situation.

This is an outline of the process I will be recommending. I am but one vote on the Commission and Council and do not speak for either body. Whether you agree or disagree with this process I hope you attend the Planning Commission meeting. An ordinance can be created that fosters a strong Business Community while maintaining the aesthetic appeal of Isanti. Please send me any comments or concerns you may have. Thank you for your time.

Candlelight Ski

The annual Candlelight Ski at the Anoka Ramsey Community College is going to be held on February 18 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. Door prizes will be awarded at 7:30 and there will be blue grass music by "High Ground" and cookies and hot chocolate will be served.

The ski route has changed slightly because of construction but the Ski will start at Campus Center of ARCC, Cambridge.

We hope you can all attend!

Limiting Eminent Domain Rights

Here is an Eminent Domain story. The move is on to limit this destructive practice of taking from individuals and giving to developers. Isanti had its own case of this last year. This destructive practice must end.

http://www.kare11.com/news/news_article.aspx?storyid=115856

I had also written a post on this last year.

http://georgewimmer.blogspot.com/2005/07/eminent-domain-and-voting.html

Yearly Appointments

The Isanti City Council did not make its yearly appointments to Boards and Commissions on January 3rd. This was decided by city staff and the Mayor. These appointments to Boards and Commissions are always made at the first City Council Meeting of the year. This includes the EDA and Planning Commission which have been the focus of some controversy in 2005.

The decision to move this to the next meeting was made because the Mayor and Council Member Johnson would be absent. This appears to have been done to make sure that appointments would be only made when the "correct" votes were available.

This manipulation of the agenda due to members’ absence should not be tolerated. I doubt if I was going to be gone I would receive the same privilege. Why are these two given such special power and consideration? I was not aware they would be gone until they did not show up at the meeting. Council Member Larson and city staff knew days, if not weeks earlier.

If Mayor Apitz and Council Member Johnson did not want to miss the yearly appointments vote then they should have made the Council Meeting a priority.

January 3rd Council Update

There are two topics from the Council meeting I want to discuss. The first is the Greater Minnesota Housing Fund (GMHF) Grant Agreement. The 2nd item is Isanti's water quality.

The grant agreement covers $50,000 from the Greater Minnesota Housing Fund. This grant is tied to the Comprehensive Plan. I had several questions centering on the requirements placed on the City. I questioned the definition of affordable housing.

The definition provided is total housing cost to the homebuyer is no higher than $140,000. This would entail the City subsidizing these homes. With lots currently being sold with ranges of $50,000 to well over $100,000 Isanti taxpayers will be asked to help fund each new "affordable" house.

The Housing Fund requires an “adequate” level of affordable housing and participation in a model project. The model project again is a method to create affordable housing.

I have significant concerns with these types of projects. This type of project assumes there is not enough “affordable” housing currently in Isanti. I have asked for a survey of Isanti’s current and planned housing stock. We need to know what we have before we add more low cost housing. I believe Isanti has a core of this housing currently. If we start adding new low cost housing on the outer rim of Isanti, we will no longer have the natural impetus to maintain the current housing stock. This means that we could end up with many older homes being neglected and possibly turning into rental properties in the cities core. This is a problem many cities have had to manage.

Isanti also needs to maintain a level of housing that generates enough property taxes to provide required services. We can not focus primarily on low income housing. The focus needs to be on providing adequate housing options for current and future residents. This project also assumes a level of local subsidy.

The main method used for creating these model “affordable” housing projects is small lots. The GMHF recommends 60 and 40 ft lots. This would require building house on top of house and causes me further concern.

The first step in this process is obtaining the information I requested on current housing stock. Secondly, if we have a need for more affordable housing, then we need make sure we keep a balance between older and newer properties. I want to make sure if this type of project is created, it will help those that are in need in the community. Isanti taxpayers should not become the solution for low income housing issues in the greater metropolitan area.

I understand the need for low income housing. I grew up in an extremely poor household. I also understand the need to maintain a balance between low, medium, and high end housing to have a healthy community. I look forward to a vigorous public debate as we move forward in this process.

The other topic of water quality was discussed. The taste and order of Isanti’s water has suffered from the high residential growth. The chlorine equipment has reached its capacity. A new larger unit will be ordered to again improve the taste and smell of Isanti’s water. There is not a health concern. Enough chlorine has been added to remove any harmful germs/bacteria. Any questions, please let me know.

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.