common council agenda

COMMON COUNCIL AGENDA April 11, 2017

Call Meeting to Order – 6:30 p.m. Pledge of Allegiance Roll Call Approval of Minutes – March 28, 2017, Regular Meeting and Closed Session Minutes Approval of Bills (Watson) $

*** NOTE: OFFICIAL ACTION MAY BE TAKEN ON ANY AGENDA ITEM ***

PUBLIC COMMENT, PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS: 1. Recognition of Alderperson David Cronk

PUBLIC HEARING: 6:31 p.m.

2. Ordinance 2017-09 - an Ordinance Amending the Definition of Building Height in Title 17-Zoning of theMunicipal Code - Second Reading and Disposition

6:32 p.m. 3. Ordinance 2017-10 - An Ordinance Establishing Regulations for Columbaria and Mausoleums in Title 17-

Zoning of the Municipal Code - Second Reading and Disposition

6:33 p.m. 4. Ordinance 2017-11 - An Ordinance Amending Chapter 2.16 Fire Protection - Second Reading and

Disposition

6:34 p.m. 5. Combination “Class A” Liquor and Class ”A” Beer License for Shopko Stores Operating Co. LLC –

Disposition by motion

CONSENT AGENDA: 6. Resolution Regarding Extension of Agreement for Prosecution Services with Bakke Norman Law Office

ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS: 7. Ordinance 2017-12 Amending Section 2.08 of the City of River Falls Municipal Code Regarding Appointed

Officials

REPORTS: 8. Emergency Weather Awareness Report

9. City Administrator’s Report

ANNOUNCEMENTS: 10. Mayor’s Appointment

ADJOURNMENT

Post 3/31/17; Publish 4/6/17; Revised and reposted 4/6/17 1

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CITY OF RIVER FALLS, WISCONSIN COMMON COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS

March 28, 2017

Mayor Toland called the meeting to order at 6:31 p.m. in the City Council Chambers located in City Hall. City Council Members Present: Todd Bjerstedt, Jeff Bjork, Christopher Gagne, Scott Morrissette, Diane Odeen, Hal Watson Members Absent: David Cronk Staff Present: Scot Simpson, City Administrator; Julie Bergstrom, Assistant City Administrator; Gordon Young, Police Chief; Amy Peterson, Development Services Director; Brandt Johnson, Management Analyst Fellow; City Attorney Dan Gustafson; Cindi Danke, Recreation Manager; Al Rolek, Finance Director; Brandy Howe, Senior Planner; Reid Wronski, City Engineer; Keri Schreiner, Management Analyst; Scott Nelson, Fire Chief; Kevin Westhuis, Utility Director; Mary Zimmermann, Communications Director; Mike Stifter, Operations Director Others: Jeremy Odegard, Ross Simonson, Dr. Beth Rausch, members of the Legos Robotics Team, Truman Purdy, others The Pledge of Allegiance was said. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: March 14, 2017, Regular Meeting Minutes MSC Morrissette/Watson approve minutes. Unanimous. APPROVAL OF BILLS: Bills $1,054,958.74 MSC Morrissette/Bjork move to approve bills subject to the comptroller. Unanimous. PUBLIC COMMENT, PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS: Alderperson Bjork recognized Lorin ‘Beaner’ Frey, a former Councilor, who passed away. CONSENT AGENDA: Acknowledgement of Minutes: Park and Recreation Advisory Board – 2/15/17; 3/15/17; EMS Board – 2/6/17; Police and Fire Commission – 2/6/17; Utility Advisory Board regular meeting – 1/16/17; workshop minutes 2/20/17 Resolution No. 6132 - Regarding Town ‘N’ Country Day Request for City Assistance Resolution No. 6133 - Authorizing Professional Services for Preliminary Design for Glen Park Resolution No. 6134 - Approving the Fire Service Agreement between the City of River Falls and the Rural Fire Association 2018-2022 Resolution No. 6135 - Regarding Special Use Permit for Eagle Storage, 201 Arrow Resolution No. 6136 - Awarding Bid for 2017 Sanitary Sewer Lining Project Resolution No. 6137 - Regarding Determination of Tax Increment District #4 and Authorizing Treasurer to Distribute Excess Increment to Overlying Taxing Districts Resolution No. 6138 - Appointing City Councilor Diane Odeen as a City Representative for the Cooperative Boundary Committee MSC Morrissette/Odeen move to approve the Consent Agenda. Unanimous. ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS: Resolution No. 6139 - Regarding Paw-A-Thon Fundraiser Request for City 2

City of River Falls, Wisconsin March 28, 2017 Page 2 Jeremy Odegard, Advisor for Lego League Team, came to provide information about the fundraiser. He introduced team members. The team needs to do a community service project and has selected the UWRF Service Animal Training Program as the recipient. The Paw-A-Thon Fundraiser will be held on May 6. He talked about the event, partners, risk considerations, staffing, and logistics. Odegard had questions about licensing vendors and insurance. The Mayor told Odegard to speak with City staff regarding any questions. He asked how interested persons would find out more. Odegard said there is a Facebook page. At the conclusion of the presentation, Odegard stood for questions. Alderperson Morrissette asked how the group would be respectful of Greenwood Cemetery and about picking up pet waste. Odegard said that some volunteers would be dedicated to course management. The pledge forms have language for owners agree to pick up pet waste. Bjork thought the event was a neat idea and encouraged Odegard to continue even if it wasn’t successful this year. MSC Morrissette/Bjork move to approve resolution. Unanimous. Ordinance 2017-09 - An Ordinance Amending the Definition of Building Height in Title 17-Zoning of the Municipal Code - First Reading No comment. Ordinance 2017-10 - An Ordinance Establishing Regulations for Columbaria and Mausoleums in Title 17-Zoning of the Municipal Code - First Reading Alderperson Watson asked if the special use structure could only reside in conjunction with a religious institution. Senior Planner Brandy Howe said it could be placed as a permitted use in an agricultural or park use district. Watson asked if a person could do this in his/her yard if the residence was in one of the zoning districts. Howe said no; it would not comply with state statutory requirements. Ordinance 2017-11 - An Ordinance Amending Chapter 2.16 Fire Protection - First Reading Morrissette said under letter E, Enforcement of Fire Prevention Ordinances, staff should consider adding, “Chief or designee.” City Administrator Simpson said it would probably be interpreted to be “Chief or designee.” The modification could be made for the next meeting. REPORTS: Kinni Corridor Plan Buddy Lucero, Community Develop Director, provided an update on the Kinni Corridor project. He talked the project’s beginning and the process, the staff involved and the meetings. Lucero talked about the project’s website. He stood for questions at the conclusion of the presentation. Alderperson Watson thanked Lucero. He said it was been really well-done and has received a lot of positive comments from the community. Kinni Off Road Cyclists (KORC) Presentation Truman Purdy, from Kinni Off Road Cyclists, gave a presentation. He talked about the group’s events, trail use which includes runners, walkers/hikers, and bikers, and trail work days. The area high schools use the trails for practice. Purdy talked about 2017 projects for the group including a trail extension and a storage area for tools. He provided contact information for the group. He stood for questions. Bjork asked about River Falls students using the trails. Purdy said many surrounding areas use the trail but only a handful of students from the City use it. Morrissette encouraged a partnership with the Chamber if they haven’t done so already. Gagne commended Purdy on maintaining the trails and self-policing. Watson talked about the practice area that was brought to the Park Board. He appreciates their efforts as it is a great resource for the community. City Administrator’s Report City Administrator Simpson mentioned important dates and talked about the website for the Kinni Corridor project (www.kinnicorridor.org). Morrissette asked about the joint finance committee meeting in Ellsworth.

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http://www.kinnicorridor.org/

City of River Falls, Wisconsin March 28, 2017 Page 3 Odeen said the meeting is at 10 a.m. Simpson talked more about the meeting. He talked about a listening session with Rep. Zimmerman. Watson asked about a memorandum of understanding for KORC regarding being able to use the start/finish area at the corporate park. Simpson said they are working on memorandum to preserve land for a start/finish. Simpson provided further information. Odeen gave information on Rep. Zimmerman’s listening session. Comptroller’s Report for February Comptroller Odeen read the following: General Fund revenues through the end of February were $2,197,088 and include the February property tax settlement and the payment for municipal services from the State of Wisconsin. Expenditures for the same period were $1,057,472 or 12 percent of budgeted, for a net of revenues over expenditures of $1,139,616. ANNOUNCEMENTS: Mayor’s Appointments

RIVER FALLS HOUSING AUTHORITY Reappointment of Nick Carow through December 2021 Appointment of Amy Peterson to fill vacancy through December 2022

MSC Gagne/Odeen move to approve the appointments. Unanimous. CLOSED SESSION: At 7:20 p.m., MS Morrissette/Watson move to recess into Closed Session per Wisconsin State Statutes § 19.85(1)(c) for the following purpose: “considering employment, promotion, compensation or performance evaluation data of any public employee over which the governmental body has jurisdiction or exercise responsibility, to wit: City Administrator.” The roll call vote to move into Closed Session was unanimous. MSC Morrissette/Watson move into Open Session at 7:54 p.m. Unanimous. MSC Morrissette/Bjerstedt move to adjourn at 7:55 a.m. Unanimous. Respectfully submitted, Kristi McKahan, Deputy City Clerk

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MEMORANDUM TO: Mayor Toland and City Council FROM: Brandy Howe, Senior Planner DATE: April 11, 2017 TITLE: Ordinance 2017-09 Amending the Definition of Building Height in Title-17

Zoning of the Municipal Code

RECOMMENDED ACTION Adopt Ordinance 2017-09 amending the definition of building height in Title-17 Zoning of the Municipal Code. BACKGROUND The current definition for building height is as follows:

"Building or structure height" means the vertical distances measured from the sidewalk level or its equivalent established grade opposite the middle of the front of the building to the highest point of the roof in the case of a flat roof; to the deck line of a mansard roof; and to mean height level between eaves and ridge of a gable, hip or gambrel roof; provided that where buildings are set back from the street line, the height of the building may be measured from the average elevation of the finished lot grade at the front of the building.

As written, this definition is clunky and not easily understood, nor is there a graphic depiction to clarify the meaning or direction of measurement. Staff proposes a new definition that maintains the spirit of the current definition but takes into consideration variations in grade around the perimeter of the building. In addition to adding clarity to the ordinance, this slight change seeks to minimize situations where topography and grading of a site might result in cases of extreme height. The proposed definition and accompanying graphic depiction are as follows:

"Building or structure height" means the vertical distance measured from the average level of the highest and lowest point of that portion of a lot covered by the building as measured around the entire perimeter of the foundation, to the highest point of the cornice of a flat roof or to the midpoint of a pitched roof.

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CONCLUSION The Plan Commission reviewed the proposed ordinance at its March 7, 2017, meeting and recommended formal adoption by City Council. Staff recommends City Council approval of the attached Ordinance.

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ORDINANCE NO. 2017-09

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE DEFINITION OF BUILDING HEIGHT IN

TITLE 17 - ZONING OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE

THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RIVER FALLS DO ORDAIN:

Section 1. Replace the definition for “Building or structure height” in Section 17.04.20 with the following definition and add the graphic as an accompaniment to the definition:

"Building or structure height" means the vertical distance measured from the average level of the highest and lowest point of that portion of a lot covered by the building as measured around the entire perimeter of the foundation to the highest point of the cornice of a flat roof or to the midpoint of a pitched roof.

Section 2. Effective date. This ordinance amendment shall take effect from and after its date of publication as provided by law.

Dated this 11th day of April, 2017. FOR THE CITY OF RIVER FALLS ATTEST: Dan Toland, Mayor Amy White, City Clerk Adopted: Published:

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MEMORANDUM TO: Mayor Toland and City Council FROM: Brandy Howe, Senior Planner DATE: April 11, 2017 TITLE: Ordinance 2017-12 Establishing Regulations for Columbaria and Mausoleums

in Title-17 Zoning of the Municipal Code

RECOMMENDED ACTION Adopt Ordinance 2017-12 establishing regulations for columbaria and mausoleums in Title-17 Zoning of the Municipal Code. BACKGROUND As more and more individuals chose cremation over traditional burial, the use and popularity of columbaria has increased throughout the state. A columbarium is a building or structure that contains multiple niches that hold urns of the cremated remains of the deceased. They are typically located on church property, either within the church building or on the property. The State Legislature enacted Wisconsin Act 95 in November 2015 that establishes rules and regulations for columbaria. Columbaria are regulated in a similar manner as mausoleums under state law; however, Act 95 provides an exemption to allow columbaria to be placed on property owned by a religious association absent a cemetery. Mausoleums may only be located within a cemetery under statute. The City has already been approached by one church to potentially establish a new columbarium on their property. Given this request and the recent passage of Wisconsin Act 95, the time is appropriate to update the City’s zoning ordinance to address columbaria and mausoleums in the City of River Falls. PROPOSED ORDINANCE AMENDMENT The proposed amendment provides definitions for cemetery, columbarium, columbarium niche, cremated remains, mausoleum, mausoleum space, and religious association that are consistent with state statute. The ordinance establishes provisions for columbaria and mausoleums that regulate location, setback, signage and left objects and require a plan of perpetual care and

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maintenance for columbaria owned by a religious association that is placed on church property that is not a cemetery. As proposed, columbaria would be an accessory structure permitted as a special use in any district where churches are listed as a permitted principal use. This list of districts includes: • R-S Single-Family Suburban • R-1 Single-Family (Low Density) • R-2 Multi-Family (Medium Density) • R-3 Multi-Family (High Density) • B-2 Limited Commercial • B-3 Highway Commercial Note: Revisions to the R-3 district is not included in the list of ordinance changes because “Any special use allowed in the R-2 district” is listed under Special Uses in the R-3 district. Mausoleums would be permitted as accessory uses in the A Agricultural and P Park districts (where cemeteries are a permitted use). Mausoleums and columbaria would not be permitted in the following districts: • B-1 General Commercial • I-1 Industrial • I-2 Heavy Industrial • C Conservation • U University • SZ School Zone • MHP Mobile Home Parks • HZ Hospital Zone CONCLUSION The Plan Commission reviewed the proposed ordinance at its March 7, 2017, meeting and recommended formal adoption by City Council. Staff recommends City Council approval of the attached Ordinance.

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AN ORDINANCE AMENDING ESTABLISHING REGULATIONS FOR COLUMBARIA

AND MAUSOLEUMS IN TITLE 17 - ZONING OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE


Section 1. Add the following definition to Section 17.04.020:

“Cemetery” means any land, including any mausoleum or columbarium on the land, which is used or intended to be used for the burial of human remains.

“Columbarium” means a building, structure, or part of a building or structure that is used or intended to be used for the inurnment of cremated remains.

“Columbarium niche” means a space in a columbarium that is used or intended to be used for the inurnment of cremated remains.

“Cremated remains” or, cremains, means the ashes of a cremated human body.

“Mausoleum” means a building, structure or part of a building or structure that is used or intended to be used for the interment of human remains.

“Mausoleum space” means a niche, crypt or specific place in a mausoleum that contains or is intended to contain human remains.

“Religious association” means an association, conference, congregation, convention, committee, or other entity that is organized and operated for a religious purpose and that is exempt from federal income tax under 26 USC 501 (c) (3) or (d) and any subunit of such an association, conference, congregation, convention, committee, or entity that is organized and operated for a religious purpose.

Section 2. Add the following text to Section 17.08 General Requirements:

D. Provisions for Columbaria and Mausoleums. Columbaria and mausoleums are regulated in state statutes under sections §157.12 for mausoleums and non-exempt columbaria and §157.123 for columbaria maintained by a religious association. The provisions under §157.123 provide an exemption to the state’s mausoleum requirements for columbaria maintained by a religious association.

1. Requirements for all columbaria and mausoleums:

a. Physical Requirements. Any outdoor columbarium or mausoleum shall be subject to the following requirements:

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i. Location. In addition to the land use requirements of the applicable zoning district, the following location requirements shall also apply:

1. Expect as permitted under subsection 2, mausoleums and columbaria shall be located inside a cemetery that has been in existence for 10 years or more. As is authorized by §159.129, the City of River Falls waives the minimum 20-acre requirement for a cemetery (as found in §157.12(2)(c)2) for which a mausoleum may be placed.

2. Columbaria maintained by a religious association may be located on property owned by the religious association and on which the religious association's church building or other place of worship is located. In the event that the religious association ceases to use or occupy the church building or other place of worship where the columbarium is located, the religious association shall relocate all of the urns or other receptacles in the columbarium containing cremated remains per the requirements of Wis. Stat. §157.123(c).

ii. Setback. Mausoleum and columbaria structures shall meet the setback and yard requirements of the zoning district in which it is located.

iii. Signage. Signage shall be limited to inscriptions on the face of a mausoleum space or columbarium niche and commemorative plaque on the mausoleum or columbarium structure. Commemorative plaques may be no larger than 12 inches by 12 inches.

iv. Left Objects. Left objects, such as flowers and mementos, are permitted but must be monitored by the religious association or cemetery or mausoleum operator and removed on a regular basis. The regularity of said removal can be defined in the plan of perpetual care and maintenance for the columbarium.

b. Care and Maintenance Plan. A plan of perpetual care and maintenance shall be submitted to the Plan Commission for review and approval. Said plan shall be pursuant to §157.123(2)(b) and (d) for columbaria maintained by a religious association or to 157.12(3)(a) for mausoleums.

Section 3. Add the following underlined text to Section 17.16.040 to allow columbaria as a special use in the RS Single-Family Suburban Residence District.

A. Churches, columbaria, schools, parking lot facilities, day care centers, libraries, hospitals and nursing homes.

Section 4. Add the following underlined text to Section 17.20.040 to allow columbaria as a special use in the R-1 Single-Family (Low Density) Residence District.


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Section 5. Add the following underlined text to Section 17.24.040 to allow columbaria as a special use in the R-2 Multiple-Family (Medium Density) Residence District.


Section 6. Add the following text to Section 17.36.040 to allow columbaria as a special use in the B-2 Limited Commercial District.

36. Columbaria.

Section 7. Add the following text to Section 17.40.040 to allow columbaria as a special use in the B-3 Highway Commercial District.

22. Columbaria.

Section 8. Add the following text to Section 17.52.030 to allow columbaria and mausoleums as permitted accessory uses in the A Agricultural District.

C. Columbaria. D. Mausoleum.

Section 9. Create the following Section 17.57.025 to allow columbaria and mausoleums as permitted accessory uses in the P Park District.

The following uses are permitted as accessory uses in the P zone:

A. Columbaria. B. Mausoleum.

Section10. Effective date. This ordinance amendment shall take effect from and after its date of publication as provided by law. Dated this 11th day of April, 2017. FOR THE CITY OF RIVER FALLS ATTEST: Dan Toland, Mayor Amy White, City Clerk Adopted: Published:

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MEMORANDUM

TO: Mayor and City Council FROM: Scott Nelson, Fire Chief DATE: April 11, 2017 TITLE: An Ordinance Amending Chapter 2.16 Fire Protection – Second Reading RECOMMENDED ACTION Adopt Ordinance 2017-13 amending Chapter 2.16 of the City Code regarding Fire Protection to comply with federal, state, and city statutes, codes and ordinances. The ordinance changes remove references to bylaws, which have been replaced by an updated Fire Service Manual. BACKGROUND Ordinance 2.16 regarding Fire Protection was repealed and recreated by the City Council on February 13, 2007. There have been no updates to the ordinance since 2007. In March 2015, a committee of fire department members was formed to review operational guidelines for the department. This committee was charged with creating a set of regulations pertaining to the operation of the fire department and members’ conduct at times other than while in response to a page. Their work plan included the following:

• Review statutes that apply to the operation of the department. • Review current bylaws and any past drafts of administrative rules. • Review administrative rules of other departments. • Determine major categories the administrative rules should cover.

In May 2016, the committee recommended a contract with a public safety policy software company and began reviewing policies. The policy software company (Lexipol) is a leading provider of state-specific defensible policies written by legal and fire professionals for public safety organizations. They provide editable policies through a web-based development system. The committee reviewed the policies and worked with the City’s Human Resources Department to ensure that personnel and safety policies that are in the Fire Service Manual are in line with City policies. DISCUSSION A committee consisting of three officers plus the Fire Chief, reviewed the proposed policies and procedures and incorporated them into the contents of the Fire Service Manual. The following 10 sections were reviewed using federal, state and local policies as well as best practices:

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https://www.municode.com/library/wi/river_falls/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT2ADPE_CH2.16FIPR

Memorandum to Mayor and City Council March 28, 2017 Page 2

• Fire Service Role and Authority • Organization and Administration • General Operations • Fire Prevention • Emergency Medical Services • Training • Equipment and Technology • Records Management • Safety • Personnel

The Fire Service Manual will be updated as needed based on recommendations from Lexipol, changes in state codes, or other considerations. Next Steps The proposed ordinance is attached for your review. Proposed changes to Chapter 2.16 of the City Code include the following general changes:

• Change section 2.16.020 to remove references to Bylaws and add the Fire Service Manual as the policy and procedure guide for the department. The ordinance changes allow future updates to the Fire Safety Manual to be approved administratively by the Chief of the department.

• Amend section 2.16.050(C) and (D) to have officers and volunteer members be appointed by the chief and subject to approval by the Police and Fire Commission.

• Language update throughout the ordinance to current terminology. CONCLUSION The Police and Fire Commission reviewed the proposed ordinance at its February 6, 2017, meeting and supported the recommendation for formal adoption by City Council. Staff recommends City Council approval of the attached ordinance to comply with federal, state, and city statutes, codes and ordinances. This is the final reading of the ordinance.

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AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 2.16 FIRE PROTECTION


Section 1. That Section 2.16.020 of the City of River Falls Municipal Code be amended as follows:

2.16.020 - Bylaws. Fire Service Manual

The Chief of the department shall adopt, and may amend, bylaws the Fire Service Manual for its control, management, and government and for regulating the business and proceedings of the department. The Chief of the Department shall ensure the Fire Service Manual follows applicable Federal, State and City statutes, codes and ordinances along with fire service best practices. which bylaws, after adoption by the members of the department, shall not become effective until reviewed by the commission and approved by the council. Amendments shall be adopted, reviewed, and approved in the same manner.


2.16.040 - Compensation.

The officers and members of the department shall receive such compensation from the city as is fixed annually by the council within the Fire Department budget..


2.16.050 - Organization.

A. Generally. The organization and internal regulation of the department shall be governed by the provisions of this chapter and by such bylaws Fire Service Manual adopted by the department as are approved by the council, except as otherwise provided by law or ordinance.

B. Chief. The commission shall appoint the chief of the fire department, who shall hold office during good behavior, subject to suspension or removal by the commission for cause.

C. Selection of Officers. The selection of officers as the bylaws may require shall be as provided in the bylaws. Officers of the department shall be appointed by the chief subject to approval by the commission.

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D. Subordinates.

1. Volunteer members of the department shall be selected according to the bylaws. appointed by the chief subject to approval by the commission.

2. Full-paid members of the department shall be appointed by the chief subject to approval by the commission as prescribed in Section 62.13, Wis. Stats.


2.16.060 - Powers and duties of chief.

A. General Supervision. The chief shall have the general supervision of the department, which supervision shall be subject to and not conflict with this chapter and the bylaws Fire Service Manual of the department and shall enforce a rigid observance of this chapter, the bylaws Fire Service Manual, and COMM 30 SPS 314 of the Wisconsin Administrative Code. The chief shall be responsible for the members and general efficiency of the department.

B. Presiding Officer. The chief, or designee, shall preside at meetings, call special meetings, preserve order, and decide all points of order that may arise., as set forth in the bylaws.

C. Command at Incidents. The chief or officer in command shall have complete command of and entire responsibility for all department operations, plan the control of the same, direct the action of the department when it arrives at an incident and observes that the department does its duty.

D. Reports. The chief shall submit a written report to the council not later than February 1st April 30th of each year, and at such other times as the chief deems desirable, relating to:

1. The condition of various pieces of apparatus;

2. The number of hydrants and the condition of the same;

3. The number and types of incidents occurring since the previous report;

4. The total number of active members in the department and resignations and expulsions from the department;

5. The drills and training programs of the department;

6. Other pertinent information, including recommendations for improvements for the department to perform its duties and significant changes in the Fire Service Manual..

E. Enforcement of Fire Prevention Ordinances. The chief, or designee, shall enforce all fire prevention ordinances of the city and state laws and regulations pertaining to fire prevention and shall keep citizens informed of fire prevention methods and on the activities of the department.

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F. Incident Reporting. The chief shall prepare an incident report of every incident to which the department was called and shall enter in the report the information required by National Fire Incident Report System (NFIRS).

G. Apparatus Inventory, Maintenance and Use. The chief shall:

1. Keep an inventory of all apparatus and equipment;

2. Order the repair of apparatus and equipment;

3. Have control of the use of all apparatus used by the department;

4. Approve the use of apparatus or equipment that it may be used for responding to incidents, training, or other activities that is deemed appropriate. A report of all non-incident use shall be included with the monthly business meeting minutes.

Section 5. Effective date. This ordinance amendment shall take effect from and after its date of publication as provided by law. Dated this 11th day of April, 2017.

FOR THE CITY OF RIVER FALLS ATTEST: Dan Toland, Mayor Amy White, City Clerk Adopted: Published:

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MEMORANDUM TO: Mayor Toland and City Council FROM: Bridget Hieb, Deputy Clerk DATE: April 11, 2017 TITLE: Request for a Combination “Class A” Liquor and Class “A” Beer License –

Shopko Stores Operating Co LLC, Shopko #130, 1777 Paulson Rd RECOMMENDED ACTION Grant by motion the request for issuance of a Combination “Class A” Liquor and Class “A” Beer License to Shopko Stores Operating Co LLC, Shopko #130. BACKGROUND The following definition from State Law may be helpful:

“Class A” licensees may sell intoxicating liquor to consumers only in original packages or containers for off-premises consumption per State Statute 125.51(2). Fee: $500.00/yr Class “A” licensees may sell beer to consumers in original packages or containers for off-premises consumption only per State Statute 125.25. Fee: $100.00/yr

The City of River Falls does not have a quota on Class A Licenses. City Council has the authority, and may use broad discretion, to grant or deny all liquor licenses within the City of River Falls. Valid reasons for denial of a new retail license are based on concern for the public health, safety, and welfare of the community. Possible reasons for denial are identified in the League of Wisconsin Municipalities Manual and listed here:

1. Adverse impact on traffic; 2. Adverse impact on the peace, quiet and cleanliness of the neighborhood where the establishment is located; 3. Insufficient parking for patrons; 4. Proximity to other licensed establishments, residential areas, schools, churches, or hospitals;

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Memorandum to Mayor and City Council April 11, 2017 Page 2

5. Ability or inability of the police to provide law enforcement services to the new establishment and the impact of the new establishment on the ability of the police to provide law enforcement services to the balance of the community at all times.

DISCUSSION Shopko Stores Operating Co LLC has completed and submitted an application for a Combination “Class A” Liquor and Class “A” Beer License for the premises located at 1777 Paulson Rd. They currently hold a Class “A” Beer License and a “Class A” Cider Only License at this premise. Upon approval, Shopko Stores Operating Co LLC will surrender the licenses currently issued to Shopko #130. Included with this memo are a completed original application and the application supplement. Pat Crowley is the current Agent for Shopko #130 and will continue as the Agent for the new license. Staff advises that Council members whom have not expressed reasons for objection during the course of discussion and then vote to deny should indicate a reason for the record regarding their denial. This is not required by law but improves clarity in the recorded record. Approvals with amendments to the request should include details on what is being amended. Approvals without amendments to the application can be made by simple motion. CONCLUSION By motion, the Council may grant, deny, or modify the request for issuance of a Combination “Class A” Liquor and Class “A” Beer License to Shopko Stores Operating Co LLC dba Shopko #130 for the premises of 1777 Paulson Rd.

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MEMORANDUM

TO: Mayor Toland and City Council Members FROM: Julie Bergstrom, Asst. City Administrator DATE: April 11, 2017 TITLE: Renewal of Agreement for Prosecution Services RECOMMENDED ACTION Adopt the resolution approving the renewal agreement for prosecution services and represent the City’s interests in municipal court. BACKGROUND The City issued a request for proposals (RFP) for prosecution services in March 2015 and received five proposals. An ad hoc committee comprised of the Mayor and Alderpersons Odeen and Watson met to review the proposals, along with Judge Cicero. After discussion of the proposals, consensus of the committee was to recommend the firm of Bakke Norman as the City’s prosecutor. Deanne Koll is the primary attorney that has been handling the prosecutions for the City. The initial agreement with Bakke Norman was a monthly flat fee of $1,500 for all prosecution services, excluding circuit court appeals. DISCUSSION Current Situation Judge Cicero and Court staff have been satisfied with the services provided by Bakke Norman and Ms. Koll. Bakke Norman has requested an increase of $500 per month for a total cost of $2,000 per month excluding appeals. As Judge Cicero has indicated that she will be retiring at the end of her term in 2018, a one year agreement is being proposed. FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS The prosecution costs are included in the City Attorney department budget, along with other municipal legal expenses. The 2017-18 budget totals $104,000. CONCLUSION Approval of the one year agreement with Bakke Norman is recommended.

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RESOLUTION NO.

RESOLUTION APPROVING AGREEMENT FOR PROSECUTION SERVICES BAKKE NORMAN

WHEREAS, the City of River Falls has established a municipal court to better serve the

citizens of River Falls; and

WHEREAS, a request for proposals was prepared in 2015 with five firms responding with proposals; and

WHEREAS, the City Council approved the firm of Bakke Norman for a three year term; and

WHEREAS, the City and Bakke Norman would like to extend the agreement for a one

year term.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Common Council of the City of River Falls hereby approves the extension of the agreement with Bakke Norman for prosecution services as outlined in the City’s RFP dated March 6, 2015. Dated this 11th day of April, 2017. Dan Toland, Mayor ATTEST: Amy White, City Clerk

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1

CONTRACT CITY OF RIVER FALLS AND

BAKKE NORMAN, S.C. FOR THE PROVISION OF PROSECUTION SERVICES

This Contract for the provision of prosecution services is made and entered into by the City of River Falls Common Council (City) and Bakke Norman, S.C. (Legal Firm). The attached Request for Proposal for Municipal Prosecutor dated March 6, 2015 and the submission by Bakke Norman, S.C. dated March 24, 2015 are all made a part of this Contract. PURPOSE The purpose of this Contract is to provide for professional legal services and, specifically, for prosecution services to the City of River Falls, Wisconsin. The Prosecuting Attorney shall serve at the pleasure of the City under the direction of and supervision by the City Administrator. The designated attorney from the Prosecuting Attorney’s office that shall be the primary prosecutor assigned to the City for prosecution services shall be Deanne M. Koll. Under the supervision of the Prosecuting Attorney, other attorneys may provide assistance to the Prosecuting Attorney as may be necessary from time to time. TERM OF CONTRACT/TERMINATION

A. This Contract shall be in effect from April 19, 2017 through May 1, 2018.

B. Prior to the expiration of this Contract or any renewal thereof, the City shall retain the right to solicit other proposals for prosecution services.

C. Termination of Contract. Either the City or Legal Firm may terminate this Contract upon

giving at least sixty (60) days’ written notice. In the event that either Party terminates this Contract, the Prosecuting Attorney shall be compensated for all hours worked on or before the date of termination. Pending case load shall be transferred to another prosecuting attorney.

QUALITY OF SERVICES The Prosecuting Attorney shall perform all legal services in a capable and efficient manner and in accordance with the Rules of Professional Conduct for Attorneys and/or the professional and ethical standards of the State Bar of Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Supreme Court. In the event the Prosecuting Attorney is a subject of any disciplinary proceeding by the State Bar of Wisconsin, the Prosecuting Attorney shall notify the City in writing of the pendency of the said disciplinary proceeding. The City may, in its discretion, make its own inquiry concerning the said disciplinary proceeding and may, in its judgment, terminate this Contract on thirty (30) days’ notice.

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2

SERVICES PROVIDED The prosecution services shall encompass all services described in the Request for Proposal for Municipal Prosecutor dated March 6, 2015 (attached) and the submission by Bakke Norman, S.C. dated March 24, 2015 (attached). FEE SCHEDULE

A. Retainer. The City agrees to pay the Prosecuting Attorney a monthly retainer in the sum of $2,000 per month for the provision of prosecution services, excluding that for circuit court appeals. The monthly retainer shall include all expenses and costs of Legal Firm in the provision of prosecution services provided on behalf of the City.

B. Rate for Appeals. If the City requires the services of the Prosecuting Attorney for circuit

court appeals, the Prosecuting Attorney shall bill the City at a rate of $185.00 per hour, or as negotiated.

C. Payment Terms. Legal Firm will submit, at the end of each calendar month, an

itemization of all work performed listing time by date for work performed by hours, down to the quarter of an hour, with specific reference to the nature of the work performed. Should Legal Firm fail to submit statements within thirty (30) days following the end of each month, City shall not be responsible for payment under this contract. The monthly retainer will be paid by the City within forty-five (45) days from invoice date.

INSURANCE Legal Firm will maintain professional liability provide insurance coverage as outlined in the March 24, 2015 submission. The City will be listed as an additional insured on all policies. INDEMNIFICATION To the extent provided by law and irrespective of any insurance required of the Prosecuting Attorney, the Prosecuting Attorney shall defend, hold harmless, and indemnify the City from any and all Claims arising out of or in any way relating to this Contract. NOTICES Any notice or communication permitted or required by this Contract will be effective when personally delivered or deposited, postage prepaid, in the first class mail of the United States properly addressed to the appropriate party at the address set forth below:

To Legal Firm: To City: Bakken Norman, S.C. City of River Falls Attention: Deanna M. Koll Attention: City Administrator 1200 Heritage Drive, P.O. Box 308 222 Lewis Street New Richmond, WI 54017 River Falls, WI 54022

INDEPENDENT CONTRACTOR Prosecuting Attorney and other attorneys of Legal Firm providing services under this Contract is an independent contractor, and nothing contained herein will constitute or designate Legal Firm or any of its agents or employees as agents or employees of City.

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3

ENTIRE CONTRACT AND AMENDMENTS This Contract and attachments constitute the entire agreement of the parties with regard to the subject matter of the Contract, and replaces and supersedes all other agreements or understandings, whether written or oral. No amendment or renewal of the Contract will be binding unless in writing and signed by all parties. BREACH OF CONTRACT In the event a Party breaches this Contract, the prevailing Party shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorney’s fees and costs associated with enforcing their rights herein. This Contract shall be governed by the laws of the State of Wisconsin. SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS The Prosecuting Attorney shall not assign, transfer or encumber any rights, duties, or interests accruing from this Contract without the written consent of the City. NON-DISCRIMINATION Legal Firm agrees in the performance of this Contract that it will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, color, creed, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, disability, marital status, military status, or political opinion or affiliation. SEVERABILITY Should any part, term, portion or provision of this Contract, or its application to any person or circumstances, be held by a Court of competent jurisdiction to be in conflict with any State or Federal law or otherwise be rendered unenforceable, the part, term, portion or provision will be deemed severed and the remainder of the Contract will not be affected thereby, so long as the remaining portions or provisions can be construed in substance to continue to constitute the Contract that the City and Legal Firm intended to enter into in the first instance. DATED this ______ day of _________________, 2017. CITY OF RIVER FALLS BAKKE NORMAN, S.C. Dan Toland, Mayor Deanna M. Koll, Prosecuting Attorney

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MEMORANDUM TO: Mayor Toland and City Council FROM: Brandt Johnson, Management Analyst Fellow DATE: April 11, 2017 TITLE: Ordinance 2017-12 Amending the Municipal Code Regarding Appointed

Officials – First Reading RECOMMENDED ACTION Adopt Ordinance 2017-12 Amending the Municipal Code Regarding Appointed Officials. First Reading is scheduled for April 11, 2017, and Second Reading for April 25, 2017. BACKGROUND It is important that, from time to time, departments review and update their ordinances to reflect changes to City official titles, appointments and their terms within the Municipal Code. The purpose of this ordinance is to reflect current City official titles, appointments and their current term agreements in the Municipal Code. DISCUSSION The following outlines each of the proposed changes contained in the Ordinance.

• Section 1: Updates and or removes the official titles and terms of the following positions:

o Update the City Clerk ‘How Appointed’ from City Council to City Council on recommendation of City Administrator.

o Update the City Treasurer ‘How Appointed’ from City Council to City Council on recommendation of City Administrator.

o Update the City attorney term from Annual to Contract. o Update the City Engineer ‘How Appointed’ from City Council to City Council on

recommendation of City Administrator. o Update the City Assessor term from Annual to Contract. o Update the Health Officer term from Annual to Contract. o Remove the Public Works Director official title and replace it with Operations

Director. o Update the Operations Director ‘How Appointed’ from City Council to City

Administrator. o Update the City Auditors term from Annual to Contract.

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Memorandum to Mayor and City Council April 11, 2017

o Update the Utility Director ‘How Appointed’ from City Council to City Administrator.

o Update the Finance Director ‘How Appointed’ from City Council to City Council on recommendation of City Administrator.

o Remove the Affirmative action officer official. • Section 2: Removes the Public Works Director title and replaces it with Operations

Director. • Section 3: Eliminates Section 2.08.200 that refers to the Affirmative Action Officer

position. CONCLUSION Passage of the Ordinance 2017-12 amending the Municipal Code regarding Appointed Officials is recommended to reflect current City official titles, appointments and terms in the Municipal Code.

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AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING APPOINTED OFFICALS


SECTION 1. That Section 2.08.020 of the City of River Falls Municipal Code be amended as follows:

2.08.020 - Appointed officials.

The following shall be the appointed officials of the city who shall be appointed in a manner prescribed by the city council and for the term indicated:

Official How

Appointed Term

City clerk City council on

recommendation of City Administrator Indefinite

City treasurer City council on


City attorney City council Annual

Contract

City engineer City council on


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City assessor City council Indefinite

Contract

Health officer City council Annual

Contract

Chief of police Police & fire commission Indefinite

Chief of fire dept. Police & fire commission Indefinite

Public works director

Operations director City Administrator Indefinite

City administrator City council Indefinite

City auditor City council Annual

Contract

Utility director City Administrator Indefinite

Finance director City Administrator Indefinite

Affirmative action officer City council Indefinite

SECTION 2. That Section 2.08.150 of the City of River Falls Municipal Code be amended as follows:

2.08.150 - Public works director Operations Director.

A. How Appointed. See Section 2.08.020 of this municipal code.

B. Powers and Duties. The position of public works director Operations Director is created and the director shall have such powers and duties as set forth in the Wisconsin Statutes, and shall perform such other duties as may be adopted from time to time by the city council in the form of a job description. The public works director Operations Director shall supervise such subordinates and departments as the city council, by resolution, deems fit.

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https://www.municode.com/library/wi/river_falls/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT2ADPE_CH2.08CIOFGE_2.08.020APOF

SECTION 4. That Section 2.08.200 of the City of River Falls Municipal Code be repealed.

SECTION 5. This Ordinance shall take effect on the day after publication. Dated this 25th day of April, 2017.

FOR THE CITY OF RIVER FALLS ATTEST: Dan Toland, Mayor Amy White, City Clerk Adopted: _________________ Published: _________________

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Administrator’s Report April 5, 2017 April 6, 6:30-8 p.m. – Kinni Project Tech Talk, St. Bridget Catholic Church (kinnicorridor.org) April 7-9 – River Falls Roots and Bluegrass Music Festival (see riverfallsbluegrass.com) April 9-15 – National Library Week April 11, 6:30 p.m. – City Council Meeting April 13, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. – Open Book, City Hall April 17-21 – Tornado Awareness Week April 18, 5:30 p.m. – City Council Organizational Meeting April 19, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.–Joint Finance Committee State Budget Hearing, Ellsworth High School April 20, 1:45 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. – Emergency warning siren test date April 21-22 – 2017 St. Croix Summit at UW-River Falls April 28 – Arbor Day April 29, 9 a.m. – 2017 Kinni River Clean up, Main Shelter at Glen Park May 9, 5 p.m. – TID 101 Workshop May 9, 6:30 p.m. – City Council Meeting May 23, 6:30 p.m. – City Council Meeting May 25, 9-11 a.m. – Board of Review, City Hall May 29 – Memorial Day – City Offices are Closed Tuesday’s Council Meeting Preview:

• Recognition of Alderperson David Cronk • Presentation from Chief Young on Emergency Weather Awareness • Public Hearings on three ordinances and a liquor license for Shopko • Resolution Regarding Extension of Agreement for Prosecution Services with Bakke

Norman Law Office

Unofficial Election Results Alderperson District 1 Bill Stuessel 186 Sean K. Downing 234 Write In 0

Alderperson District 2 Christopher P. Gagne 102 Michael Kranz 49 Write In 0 Alderperson District 3 Hal Watson 271 Write In 2

Alderperson At Large Diane Odeen 874 Aaron Taylor 251 Write In 2

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Upcoming Events April 6, 6:30-8 p.m. – Kinni Project Tech Talk, St. Bridget Catholic Church (kinnicorridor.org) The focus is on ‘economic and neighborhood development’ with former Duluth Mayor Don Ness. April 7-9 - River Falls Roots and Bluegrass Music Festival (see riverfallsbluegrass.com) The festival is a free three-day musical festival located in the heart of downtown River Falls. The weekend kicks off with the 4th Annual Beer & Wine Tasting at Junior's Bar and Restaurant. Enjoy the character of our historic Main Street as you move from venue to venue to experience both regional and local roots and bluegrass music all weekend long. Enjoy a variety of free workshops and participate in free jam sessions. Don't miss over 50 hours of foot-stomping bluegrass! April 13 – Open Book at City Hall, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

This year’s Open Book is scheduled for Thursday, April 13, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at City Hall. Residents who wish to attend the Open Book must make an appointment with Associated Appraisal Consultants, Inc. no later than April 12 (1-800-721-4157) for an appointment.

April 17-21 – Tornado Awareness Week This week has been designated by Wisconsin Emergency Management as Tornado Awareness Week. There will be siren tests on Thursday, April 20, at 1:45 p.m. and also at 6:45 p.m. April 19 - State Budget Hearing at Ellsworth High School The Joint Finance Committee will be holding one of six budget hearings in Ellsworth at the High School on April 19 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. The public is encouraged to attend and provide comments, concerns and opinions on the 2017-2019 state budget. The high school is located at 323 W. Hillcrest Street in Ellsworth. Other upcoming locations and dates are:

• Friday, April 7th – Berlin High School, Berlin • Tuesday, April 18th – Spooner High School, Spooner • Friday, April 21st – Marinette High School, Marinette

April 21-22 – 2017 St. Croix Summit The 2017 St. Croix Summit — a conference dedicated to sharing information about the health of the St. Croix River and its watershed — will be held at the University of Wisconsin, River Falls on Friday, April 21, with optional workshops on Saturday, April 22. The Summit will inspire you with powerful examples of people working together to protect our most vital resources. Registration and payment is required to attend. To learn more, please visit: https://www.stcroixriverassociation.org/event/2017-st-croix-summit/. April 28 – Arbor Day Celebration April 28 is Arbor Day. There will be a tree planting ceremony on the new trail by Lake George. A time will be announced.

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http://www.riverfallsbluegrass.com/

https://www.stcroixriverassociation.org/event/2017-st-croix-summit/

April 29 – 2017 Kinni River Clean Up, 9 a.m. Main Shelter at Glen Park The 23rd annual Kinni River Clean Up is Saturday, April 29, at 9 a.m. Here’s your opportunity to make a difference! Last year 140 volunteers showed up. Let’s make 2017 an even bigger event. This event is sponsored by the Kinni River Land Trust. To participate, you must register by 5 p.m. on Monday, April 24. Event and registration information can be found on KLRT’s website at: http://kinniriver.org/news-events/upcoming-events/. Welcome! Zach Regnier was hired in the civil engineer position. He is from Ellsworth and recently graduated from the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) with his Master’s in Civil Engineering. He also received his Bachelor’s degree in Civil along with a Business and Math minor, all from MSOE. Zach spent three summers as an Engineer Intern with the City of Red Wing and also recently completed an Engineers Without Borders project in Guatemala. Zach joined us on Monday, April 3.

From the EMS Department

• We are in the process of filling nine new PT EMT positions for the River Falls station. • Ryck Roland was hired as the newest FT Paramedic and has begun the orientation

process. • Deanne Claypool is transitioning in the Training Office and Prescott Station

Coordinator. • The service’s new ambulance will be ready for service in mid-April. • Thank you to the River Falls Lion’s Club for donating the funds to purchase four video

laryngoscopes. From the Utility Department Well #6 was rebuilt in April due to a pump failure and has run great through the month of March.

Community Solar purchases:

• Twenty-five shares purchased by the River Falls Area Hospital • Two shares purchased by Ezekiel Lutheran

Renewable energy blocks A new record high of 566 customers are purchasing green blocks. We’re at 9.1 percent customer participation. An additional 58 customers would allow us to reach our goal of 10 percent customer participation. We remain #1 in the state for customer participation and #4 nationally for customer participation. Renewable energy for nonprofits The River Falls Hockey Association was awarded a grant from WPPI Energy to install solar on the roof of the hockey arena. The Conservation and Efficiency Coordinator will assist recipients, contractors, and WPPI in the project. Project completion is expected to be late summer 2017.

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http://kinniriver.org/news-events/upcoming-events/

From Public Works • New Richmond Correctional has been assisting Public Works staff for the past couple of

weeks on Spring cleaning projects including: cleaning and raking the Greenwood Cemetery; trimming of trees in storm water ponds in Spring Creek, Royal Oaks and Sterling Ponds; and cleanup in parks, garbage removal from roadsides and storm ponds.

• Water line installed for gravel tree bed at UWRF which is a joint cooperative program • PW took delivery of remaining salt order for the season and next year’s requested salt

supply has been ordered. • Interviews conducted for PW seasonal staff; eight have been hired with start dates

generally from May 15 to June 1. One returner started on April 1 and is assisting Public Works and Utility crews.

• Youth Leadership River Falls was held with assistance by PW and Utilities. Lunch was prepared and served by staff also for City and RFSD employees.

• Planning is taking place for Public Works week in May with presentations to all second graders. This is the second year of this educational event.

• Wisconsin State Patrol conducted educational training for CDL License holders on OWI penalties and reviewed equipment tie down requirements for trailered equipment.

• Several storm water projects are in the implementation or planning stages through the month of April. Approximately 14 catch basins will be repaired by staff with work to continue on the ditch in the Golf View neighborhood.

From the Police Department Investigator Miller gave a drug paraphernalia recognition presentation to city staff at River Falls Public Works. School Resource Officer Gottfredsen had the following activity:

• conducted four presentations to the 8th Grade health classes on underage liquor consumption

• conducted an identification/scam presentation to Renaissance students • created and implemented a “Distracted Driver Pledge Program” in the High School.

This program is designed for students who are able to drive and are asked to sign a pledge acknowledging that they will not drive while distracted.

Community Policing Specialist Officer P. Jensen had the following activity:

• Instructed Chippewa Valley Technical College criminal justice students about the laws on operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated

• Instructed officers during our in-service training on state and local alcohol statutes • Conducted a tour and presentation for Leadership River Falls Youth (8th Graders) at the

police department • Conducted a presentation for Pierce County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council

about River Falls alcohol enforcement initiatives.

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From the Fire Department In March, 2017, we responded to a total of 23 fire calls, which compares to 21 calls for the same period last year. 2017 YTD Total = 51; 2016 YTD Total = 54. From the Library There will be a Joint Finance Committee listening session on the state budget in Ellsworth on April 19 beginning at 10 a.m. which several staff members and other librarians and library supporters will be attending. Our goal is to have a group of library supporters stand in support of a small group of speakers who will advocate for an increase of $1.5 million for ongoing annual allocation of $16,513,100 million for public library system funding. This funding will help library systems improve services around three key areas—workforce development, lifelong learning and improved broadband access. If you are interested in attending, let Heather Johnson know. Call the library 715-425-0905, or email [email protected]. Smoking on Library Property The Board has talked about prohibiting smoking on library grounds. WellHaven is a non-smoking campus and St. Bridget’s is no smoking within so many feet of the doors. At the Board’s April meeting, they requested that a policy be put together that would limit smoking to the sidewalks by the boulevards and parking lot. Smoking under the canopies or next to the entry doors would be prohibited. Programming The quilt display continues in the gallery through April 9th. The next exhibit is the all school art show. Marshmallow Peep dioramas are on display at the library through April 13. The Big Read program with The Maltese Falcon began in April. There are two book discussions coming up in April: Thursday, April 6, at 4 p.m. and Tuesday, April 25, at 6:30 p.m. These are open to anyone interested in the opportunity to talk about the book, noir fiction, detective novels, and Dashiell Hammett.

• April 8, 10:30 a.m.—Seed art crafting. We did this last year, and it was so much fun. You can create your own Maltese Falcon in seeds, or some other ‘object of desire’ of your own creation.

• April 13, 6:30 p.m.—St. Croix Festival Theater will perform “The Real Inspector Hound” • April 19, 7 p.m.—Dr. Larry Harred will give a talk on Dashiell Hammett and his

writings • April 29-30, May 6-7—River Falls Community Theatre will present a radio drama

version of “The Maltese Falcon”. Saturday performances at 7:30 pm, Sunday matinees at 2 pm.

• May 1-12--The ‘Objects of Desire’ sculpture tour featuring a variety of artists’ take on “The Maltese Falcon’.

• May 15, 6:30 p.m.—Author Erika Janik will discuss her book, “Pistols and Petticoats: 175 years of lady detectives in Fact and Fiction”.

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mailto:[email protected]

Heather Johnson is now visiting three of the assisted living facilities with books and programming. From Administration Renewal of EMS Service Agreement The City has annually reviewed and renewed an agreement with the surrounding towns for EMS services. For the upcoming renewal, a three year agreement is being proposed to provide the department a longer window for planning. This agreement will be presented to the City Council in May or June for review and discussion. MEUW Safety Program Municipal Electric Utilities of Wisconsin (MEUW) has provided contracted safety services to the electric utility and other City departments for several years which, along with the City’s training and development committee, has shown a positive expansion of the City’s safety processes. The City’s workers compensation experience rating is .85, which is significantly lower than other similarly situated cities, and reduces the annual workers compensation insurance premium by over $20,000. An enhanced safety program is considered a priority for the welfare of employees, as well as keeping insurance costs in check. In the past few years MEUW has experienced turnover in training staff, resulting in a lack of consistency in the training schedule and completion of projects. MEUW recently notified us that our current consultant is no longer available, and we have taken steps to terminate the agreement. Other safety consulting companies are available to provide this service, or as an alternative, a sharing arrangement with other municipalities could be considered. Additional information will be provided as we work through this transition. River Falls EMS Study The three year service contract with the Prescott Area Fire and EMS terminates at the end of 2017, and the group has requested renewal information from the City. This contract staffs the Prescott area with EMT level coverage, as this was the most affordable option at the time. The arrangement is somewhat challenging, due to the staffing of critical care paramedics serving the River Falls area and the sharing of resources between the two communities. Adding paramedic level coverage to the Prescott service area would add flexibility to the department as a whole, however the costs to Prescott would increase significantly. In addition to decisions regarding the appropriate level of service, the River Falls EMS service is generally contemplating future short and long term needs for staffing, recruitment and retention of paid per call volunteers, as well as the optimum service area. In light of these important issues, we are requesting proposals from firms qualified to review the department, including procedures, processes and policies, and provide recommendations for future decisions, such as the Prescott renewal contract, future staffing and pay, and any rate adjustments needed. This study has been discussed with the EMS Advisory Board, and will be brought back to the Council for review in May.

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City Administrator Comings and Goings ● Staff 1 on 1s ● Staff Meetings ● Incubator Meetings ● Council 1 on 1s ● Business retention meetings ● Tech Talk #3

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MEMORANDUM TO: City Council FROM: Dan Toland, Mayor DATE: April 11, 2017 TITLE: Mayor’s Appointment to Boards and Commissions RECOMMENDED ACTION Consideration of appointments:

RIVER FALLS HOUSING AUTHORITY Appointment of Matt Fitzgerald to fill vacancy through December 2020

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Dan Toland

From:

Sent:

To:

Subject:

Attachments:

Dear Mayor Toland,

Matthew Fitzgerald

Friday, March 31, 2017 12:52 AM

Dan Toland

Housing Authority, Board of Commissioners letter of interest

MattFitzgeraldCommunityEngagement.doc

I would appreciate your accepting this as my letter of interest for appointment to a seat on the Board of Commissioners for the River Falls Housing Authority. I'm attaching a resume with this letter to help provide relevant information about my personal and professional background that would be a fit for the role of this position.

In summary, I currently work at the University of Wisconsin - River Falls in the Residence Life Office where I have served as an Information Systems Administrator role over the past five years, managing their housing information system and web site, and providing resources and reporting for strategic planning. I have served and am currently serving in numerous capacities on campus and community committees and boards, and have served one term as an Alderman on River Falls City Council. I have a Masters of Science in Sustainable Community Development from UW-River Falls. I was an active duty soldier for a 3-year term in Europe and the Middle East as a Heavy Wheeled Vehicle Operator from 1989-1992.

On a personal note, I had spent time volunteering at the Habitat for Humanity Eco-Village construction site, had been a Park and Rec Soccer Coach for a number of years, and have served in a variety of roles for our church community. I'm also an avid pickle-baller, racquetball player, and am on a summer ultimate frisbee team. My wife Jenny and I have a 12-year old son Ethan who attends Meyer Middle School.

I have a strong interest in serving the Housing Authority Board of Commissioners. Its charge of providing affordable housing to low and moderate income families, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities is an important one in a River Falls community with relatively high property taxes, where it is difficult to find housing that is affordable. Providing safe and well maintained properties and communities within our city for residents at all income levels is vital.

Sincerely,

Matt Fitzgerald

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common council agenda

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