04-08-14 AGENDA
Council/Manager Meeting
Golden Valiey City Hall
7800 Golden Valley Road
Council Conference Room
April 8, 2014
6:30 pm or immediately following the HRA Meeting
Pa es
1. 2013 Open Space and Recreation Commission Annual Report (20 minutes) 2-3
2. Teen Committee (15 minutes) 4-7
3. Railroad Crossing Quiet Zone Regulations and Cost Estimate (30 minutes) 8-21
4. Emergency Management Plan (1 hour) 22
5. Even Year Election (30 minutes) 23-37
6. League of Minnesota Cities Annual Conference/National League of Cities 38-42
Congress of Cities and Exposition (10 minutes)
7. Boards and/Commissions: Appointments-Reappointments-Recognition Dinner 43
(15 minutes)
8. Name Badges (5 minutes) 44-45
Council/Manager meetings have an informal, discussion-style format and are designed
for the Council to obtain background information, consider policy alternatives, and
provide general directions to staff. No formal actions are taken at these meetings. The
public is invited to attend Council/Manager meetings and listen to the discussion; public
participation is allowed by invitation of the City Council.
This dc�cu�ent is availabl� in afternate formats upan a 72-hour request. Please call
763-59�-8tl�G(TTY: 763-593-3968}ta make a'request. �xamples�rf a(ternate farmats '
may include large print,;electronic, Braille,autliacassette,ete.
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T63-512-2345/763-512-2344(fax)
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Executive Summary
Golden Valley Council/Manager Meeting
April 8, 2014
Agenda Item
1. Open Space and Recreation Commission 2013 Annual Report
Prepared By
Bob Mattison, Open Space and Recreation Commission Chair
Rick Birno, Director of Parks & Recreation
Summary
Presentation of the 2013 Open Space and Recreation Commission annual report.
Attachments
• 2013 Open Space and Recreation Commission report (1 page)
zo13 Annual Report
City of Golden Valley
Open Space and Recreation Commission
Tasks/Projects/Topics:
i. Reviewed and approved five playground replacements at: Brookview, Lions, Wildwood,
Gearty and Glenview.
z. Reviewed and approved golf course and lawn bowling improvements.
3. Partnered with the Environmental Commission on the Natural Resource Management
Plan.
4. Worked with city staff in creating questions for the park section of the City Survey.
5. Met with Golden Valley Little League and received a season update.
6. Met with Golden Valley Phoenix Soccer and received a season update.
7. Park and Open Space bus tour- annual tour to observe and evaluate condition of
parks and open space areas.
8. Hennepin County Youth Sports Grant—Wildwood Park playground equipment
request.
9. Reviewed Park Section of Comprehensive Plan -yearly review to evaluate progress.
Zo. Brookview Golf Course review- overview of golf course operation.
si. Yearly review of Recreation Programs with Recreation Supervisors.
iz. Bottineau Transitway- informational meeting, discussion, ongoing developments.
The Golden Valley Open Space and Recreation Commission continues to be active in all areas
dealing with issues related to parks, open spaces and recreational activities.The commission
attempts to re-evaluate pertinent issues on a yearly basis and tries to be responsive to citizen
input.The current membership of the commission is strong and looking forward to the future.
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Park and Recreation Department
763-512-2345/763-512-2344(fax)
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Executive Summary
Golden Valley Council/Manager Meeting
April 8, 2014
Agenda Item
2. Teen Committee Operating Procedure Proposal
Prepared By
Brian Erickson, Recreation Supervisor
Carrie Anderson, Recreation Supervisor
Rick Birno, Director of Parks & Recreation
Summary
Parks and Recreation staff and teen representatives will be in attendance to request approval to
move forward with the Teen Committee Operating Proposal.
Attachments
• Teen Committee Operating Procedures Proposal (3 pages)
A Proposed Outline of Golden Valley Teen Committee Operatin�Procedure
1. Statement of Purpose
The Golden Valley Teen Committee works to advise and recommend to the Open Space and Recreation
Commission on matters pertaining to and affecting teenagers.
2. Membership
The Committee consists of up to 7-9 members.Any resident of Golden Valley who is enrolled in school
grades 8-12 is eligible for membership.
3. Selection of Members
Application: The process of selecting Committee members begins with all interested teens completing
a short application. The application should ask for contact information, school of attendance, and grade
level; it should also include 2-4 short-answer questions that provide information concerning applicants'
reasons for desiring membership, community involvement, etc.
Review: Open Space and Recreation Commission will review all applications once annually to
recommend and vote on members to be appointed to serve on the Committee.
Selection: Final selection of inembers is determined and voted on by the Open Space and Recreation
Commission.
Appointment:All selected members are appointed and installed into their positions by the Open Space
and Recreation Commission.Appointment lasts for a period of one year. Members interested in serving
on the Commission for another year may re-apply.
4. Vacancies
Vacancies will be filled for the unexpired portion of the term following the same selection procedures
detailed above.
5. Duties and Responsibilities
The Committee works to advise and recommend to the Open Space and Recreation Commission (as
well as other City Commissions when needed) on matters pertaining to and affecting teenagers.
Specifically, it shall:
• Develop and make recommendations to the Open Space and Recreation Commission on topics
of City policy that impact teens.
• Attend City Commission meetings as needed to provide teen perspectives and insights on issues
being addressed by those Commissions.
• Review and provide input relating to programs, policies, and services for teens.
• Review, report, and recommend on other matters as are assigned by the Open Space and
Recreation Commission.
6. Officers and Responsibilities
At its first meeting after the appointment of new members, the Committee shall elect from its
membership a Chairperson, a Vice-Chairperson and a Secretary each of who shall serve a one-year
term.
Chairperson: The Chairperson shall preside over all meeting of the Committee and supervise the
efficient and responsible operation of the Committee with guidance from Parks & Recreation staff.
Vice-Chairperson: The Vice-Chairperson shall preside at Committee meetings in the absence of the
Chairperson.
Secretary: The Secretary will be responsible for taking minutes at each official meeting and submitting
them to Parks & recreation staff to be reviewed and forwarded to the Open Space and Recreation
Commission. If the Secretary is absent from a scheduled meeting, acting Chairperson will appoint
Committee member in attendance to take official meeting minutes.
Council Meeting Attendance: All Committee members are expected to attend a minimum of 6 (six)
City Council and/or City Council/Manager meetings annually.
7. Meetin�s
Committee meetings occur on the fourth Monday of the month for seven meetings annually at 6:00 pm.
Meetings will be scheduled for September, October,November, January, February, March, and April.
Additional meetings can be scheduled by a simple majority vote by committee members if needed.
Additional meetings will need to be coordinated with staff for location, date and time.
8. uorum
A majority (50% + 1) of serving members on the Committee constitutes a quorum to conduct business.
All members will be required to notify Parks & Recreation staff if not able to attend a scheduled
Committee meeting. Meetings will be canceled if there is not a quorum to conduct business.
9.A eg nda
Agenda for meetings will be set by acting Chairperson and Parks and Recreation staf£Agenda will be
sent to Committee members electronically 5 (five) business days in advance of the scheduled meeting.
10. Reporting
Teen Committee Secretary will submit meeting minutes from each scheduled meeting to Parks &
Recreation staff for review and forwarding to the Open Space and Recreation Commission. Teen
Committee will be schedule 2 (two)times annually on the Open Space and Recreation Commission
agenda to provide updates.
11. Role in Citv Structure
Position: While the Committee is tasked with addressing all issues that afFect teenagers in Golden
Valley, it is considered a program of the City's Park and Recreation Department.
Staff Role: The Parks and Recreation Department determines one or more staff members who serve as
liaisons to the Teen Committee.
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763-593-80301?63-593-3988(fax)
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Executive Summary
Golden Valley Council/Manager Meeting
April 8, 2014
Agenda Item
3. Railroad Crossing Quiet Zone Regulations and Cost Estimate
Prepared By
Jeannine Clancy, Director of Public Works
Jeff Oliver, PE, City Engineer
Eric Seaburg, EIT, Engineer
Summary
The City Council received the attached informal petition (not a formal petition for public
improvements)from the condo owners at 5901 Laurel Avenue at its December 17, 2013 meeting.
The letter outlines the residents' concerns with respect to an increase in train noise in the area.
In April 2005, the Final Rule on Use of Locomotive Horns at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings was
published in the Federal Register. This legislation is intended to maintain a high level of public
safety for at-grade railroad crossings, create a more uniform standard for horn sounding, and
create a systematic way for establishing quiet zones.
Pursuant to Federal Regulation CPR 222.1:
"The purpose of this part is to provide for safety at public highway-rail grade crossings by
requiring locomotive horn use at public highway-rail grade crossings except in quiet zones
established and maintained in accordance with this part".
In order to establish a quiet zone, all street-rail grade crossings within a minimum half-mile
corridor must be upgraded to meet safety standards sufficient to discontinue horn sounding.At a
minimum, these street-rail grade crossings must have flashing lights, crossing arms, and certain
circuitry upgrades. In addition,train and vehicle speeds and frequencies are analyzed. In some
instances, additional safety measures are required to compensate for the increased risk due to
vehicle and train traffic.
Locomotive en�ineers that do not sound their horn in accordance with Federal Re�ulation
CPR 222 subiect themselves to the followin�civil penalties:
Appendix H to Part 222—Schedule of Civi) Penalties
Willful
Section Violation violation
Subpart B—Use of Locomotive Horns
§222.21 Use of locomotive horn
(a)Failure to sound horn at grade crossing $5,000 $7,500
Failure to sound horn in proper pattern $1,000 $3,000
(b)Failure to sound horn at least 15 seconds and less than 1/4-mile before crossing $5,000 $7,500
Sounding the locomotive horn more than 25 seconds before crossing $1,000 $2,000
Sounding the locomotive horn more than 1/4-mile in advance of crossing $1,000 $2,000
§222.33 Failure to sound horn when conditions of§222.33 are not met $5,000 $7,500
§222.45 Routine sounding of the locomotive horn at quiet zone crossing $5,000 $7,500
§222.49(b)Failure to provide Grade Crossing Inventory Form information $2,500 $5,000
§222.59(d)Routine sounding of the locomotive horn at a grade crossing equipped with wayside horn $5,000 $7,500
Staff has performed a brief analysis on the Canadian Pacific Railroad (CPR) corridor that runs
north/south along the west side of Xenia Avenue. In order to create a quiet zone at this location,
four street-rail grade crossings would need to be upgraded. These street-rail grade crossings
include:
1. CPR Mainline at Laurel Avenue
2. CPR Spur Line at Laurel Avenue
3. CPR Mainline at Golden Hills Drive
4. CPR Mainline at I-394 South Frontage Road (St Louis Park)
A preliminary cost estimate to upgrade all four of the highway-rail grade crossings to meet quiet
zone standards is $600,000. However, a detailed study with input from MnDOT,the Canadian
Pacific Railroad, and the Federal Rail Authority would need to be performed to develop a more
defined scope and cost estimate. The cost to perform this study is approximately$10,000.
Funding responsibilities for conversion of highway-rail grade crossings to quiet zones fall
primarily on the lead agency. The City, being the lead agency, would be required to fund all
necessary improvements to the highway-rail grade crossings listed above, with the exception of
the St. Louis Park crossing.
If interest in quiet zone exists, direct staff to pursue greater level of detail on scope and cost of
quiet zone by means of a coordinated study between MnDOT, Canadian Pacific Railway, and
Federal Rail Authority. The cost to perform such study is approximately$10,000.
Attachments
• Laurel Hill Residents' Letter (2 pages)
• Canadian Pacific Street/Rail Crossings Map (1 page)
• The "Train Horn" Final Rule Summary (8 pages)
Nw�emb+er 21, 2013 �" �` Z0�
PE?lTtON Tf�THE CITY C�GOLDEN YAl...LEY
A�tention City Manager 7'hamas Burt
On beha[f af the condo owner°s indicated below, residing at Lauel Hii1 East, 5901
l..aur�! Ar�enue, Gotden Yalley, we wish to express aur dismay and cancern rn+er the
use of the C$nadian tt Pa�ific raitroad tracks acljacent ta aur�aroperty for th+e
fotlovving reasons:
1. Evenin�Hour�:
Severat y�trs ag+a, tr�i� traffic did nat xcur$t night. A few y+�ars ago, it
seerned occasi+�at and erraNc. Far the tast year a-so, tratns come past
(and also pause ne�ct ta our buitdirtg} rnany nights a week be�tw�en 10 p.rn. to
3 a.m.
They►ar��emety loud as they ro(t rnrer e�h rail, and af course cr�ate nox�iot�
fumes, sedim�nt, and v��ratiorrs. Ti�e corner o#'nur buitdin�is onty ab�ut 8�' from
the tracks.
Z. 5ounci Mitigation:
When�he tra9ns prepare to crosS Laurel Avenue, excess�vety tong and lrn.rd
h�arn-biasts often occur, perhaps depending on the engineer and
circumstances. Can fihls be mfiti�atecf by crossing gates, etc.?
CJur build�ngs have co-e�cisted with the raitroad s�nce the mid-84's. Wjth hur�dreds
c�f ma�e peopte caming to'the�rea of Lauret, Xenia, and Golden Hiits Drive in new
apar�me�rtsJcondos, this wfil! aff�fi even more Gatden Valley resident�. We hope
this c�n be st�iie� anci a aotution reached! Can ytxr come to our aid7
�' .
Robert Papke .�+�,,
Carolyrt Papke C. ;�,;�,n ,�' ar",�E�_
59�1 laure!Ave. #93b
Gvlden Vaitey, M�nnesr�ta 5�416
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THE "TRA[r1 Ho�v" FINAL Ru�.E
Summary
1. Overview:
• The Final Rule on Use ofLocomotive Horns at Highway-Rail Grade Crossings,
published in the Federal Register on April 27,2005,is intended to:
�+ Maintain a high level of public safety;
� Respond to the varied concerns of many communities that have sought relief from
unwanted horn noise;and
� Take into consideration the interests af localities with e�ristfng whistle bans.
• Current�y,state laws and railroad operating rules govern use of the horn at highway-rail
grade crossings. When this rule takes effect,it will determine when the k�orn is sounded
at public crossings(and private crossings within"quiet zones").
• This Final Rule was mandated by law', and was issued by the Federal Railroad
Adrninisttation(FRA)after consideratian of almost 1,400 public comments on the
Interim Final Rule(IFR)(6$ FR 7Q586)published Decernber 18,2003.
• Consistent with the statutory mandate requiring its issuance,the rule requzres that
locomative horns be sounded at public highway-rail grade crossiags,but provides several
exceptions to that requirement 2
� Local public anthorities may designate or request approval of,quiet zones in which train
horns may not be routinely sounded. The details far establishment of quiet zones differ
depending on the type of quiet zone to be created(Pre-Rule or New}and the type of
safety improvements implemented(if required).
• Horns may continue to be silenced at Pre-Rule Quiet Zones,provided certain actions are
taken.
� Intermediate Quiet Zones{whistle bans that were implemented after October 9, 1496 but
before December 18,2003}may continue to have the horns silenced for one year(until
June 24,2006),provided certain actions are taken. After which time they must comply
with the provisions for a New Quiet Zone if the horns are to remain silent.
'49 U.S.C.20I53.
Disclaimer; This is a summary af the Final Rule for irritial brie,fing pur,poses only. Entities subject to the rule
shr�uld rejer to the rule text as published in the Federal Register on Apri127,2005.
� The rule goes into effect on June 24, 2Q05.
• Pre-Rule Quiet Zones in the six county Chicago region are excepted from the provisions
of this rule pending further evaluation af the data.
2. Requirement to sound the locomotive horn:
• Outside of quiet zones,railroads must sound the horn 15-20 seconds prior to a train's
arrival at the highway-rail grade crossing,but not more than 1!4 mile in advance of the
crossing.
Note: Most State laws and railroad rules currently require that the horn be sounded
beginaing at a point 1/4 mile in advance of the highway-rail grade crossing and
continued until the crossing is occupied by the locomotive. Under the rule,for
trains running at less fhan 45 mph,this will reduce the time and distance over
which the horn is sounded. This will reduce noise impacts on local communities.
� The pattern for sounding the horn will remain,as it currently exists today{two long,one
short,one long repeated or prolonged until the locornotive occupies the highway-rail
grade crossing).
� Locomotive engineers may vary this pattern as necessary where highway-rail grade
crassings are closely spaced;and they will also be empowered (but not required)to sound
the horn in the case of an ernergency,even in a quiet zone.
• The rule addresses use of the horn only with respect to highway-rail grade crossings.
Railroads remain free to use the horn far other purposes as prescribed in railroad
operating rules on file with FRA,and railroads must use the harn as specified i�other
FRA regulations(in support of roadway worker safety and in the case of malfunctions of
highway-rail grade crossing active warning devices}.
+ The ruie prescribes both a minimum and max�imum volume level for the train horn. The
minimum level is retained at 96 dB(A},and the new maximum will be 110 dB(A). This
range will permit railroads to address safety needs in their operaring tenitory(see
discussion in the preamble).
• The protocol for testing the lacomotive harn will be altered to place the sound-level
meter at a height of 15 feet above top of rail,rather than the current 4 feet above the tap
of the rail. Cab-mounted and low-raounted horns will continue to have the sound-level
meter placed 4 feet above the top of the rail.
Note: The effect of this change will be to permit center-mounted horns to be"turned
down"in some eases. The previous test method was influenced by the"shadow
Disclaimer: This is a summary of the Final Rule for initral briefing purposes only. Errtities subject to the rule
should refer to the rule text as pubdished in the Federal Register or�April z7,2005.
effect"created by the body of the locomotive to indicate a lower sound level than
would otherwise be expected several hundred feet in front of the locomative
(where the crossing and approachi�g motorists are located).
• The effect of these cha.nges will reduce noise impacts for 3.4 million of the 9.3 million
people currently affected by train horn noise.
3. Creation of quiet zones:
• The rule provides signi�cant flexibility to communities to create quiet zones,both where
there are existing whistle bans and in other cvmrnunities that hecetofore have had no
opportunity to do so.
• The Final Rule permits implementation of quiet zones in low-risk locales withaut
requiring the addition of safety improvements.
✓ This concept utilizes a risk index approach that estimates expected safety
outcomes(that is,the likelihood of a fatal or non-fatal casualty resulting
from a coliision at a highway-rail crossing).
✓ Risk may be averaged over crossings in a proposed quiet zone.
./ Average risk within the proposed quiet zone is then compared with the
average nationwide risk at gated crossings where the horn is sounded(the
"National Significant Risk Threshold"or`�1SRT"}. FRA will compute
the NSRT annually.
The effeet of this approach is that hatns can remain silenced in over half of Pre-Rule
Quiet Zones without significant expense;and many New Quiet Zanes can be created
without significant expense where flashing lights and gates are already in place at the
highway-rail grade crossings.
• If the risk index for a proposed New Quiet Zone exceeds the NSRT,then supplementary
or alternative safety measures must be used to reduce that risk(to fully compensate for
the absence of the train horn or to reduce risk below the NSRT).
• The Final Rule—
J Retains engineering solutions known as"supplementary safety measures"for
use without FRA approval.
✓ Retains explicit flexibility for the modifieation of"supplementary safety
measures"to receive credit as"alternative safety measures." For instance,
Disclaimer; This is a summary ojthe Final Rule for initial briefingpurposes only. Entities subject to the rule
should refer to the rule tezt as published in the Federal Register on April 27,2005.
shorter traffic channelization arrangements can be used with reasonable
effectiveness estimates.
✓ Adds a provisian that provides risk reductian credit for pre-existing SSMs and
pre-existing modified SSMs that were implemented prior to December 18,
2003.
✓ Continues education and enforcement options, including phota enforcement,
subject to verification of effectiveness.3
� 'The public authority responsibte for traffic control or law enforcement at the highway-rail
grade crossing is the oniv entity that can designate or apply for quiet zone status.
• FRA will provide a web-based tool for cammunities to use in performing"what if'
calculations and preparing submissians necessary to creatc or retain quiet zones. The tool
may be found at http:l/www.fra.dot. o�v.
• Ir�order to ensure proper application of the risk index,the National Highway-Rail
Crossing Inventory must be aecurate and complete. In the absence of timely filings to the
Inventory by the States or Railroads,local authorities may file updated inventory
information,and railroads must cooperate un providing railroad-speeific data.
• FRA regional personnei will be avaitable to partieipate in diagnostic teams evaluating
options for quiet zones.
• Once a quiet zone is established(including the continuation of Pre-Rule oz Intermediate
Quiet Zones pending any required improvements),the railroad is barred from routine
sounding of the horn at the affected highway-rail grade crossings.
• See belvw for discussion of Pre-Rule Quiet Zanes and New Quiet Zanes.
3The rule neither approves nor excludes the possibility of relying upon regional education
and enforcement programs with altemative verification strategies. FRA is providing funding in
support of an Illinois Comrnerce Commission-sponsored regional program. The law provides
authority far use of new techniques when they have been demonstrated to be effective.
Disclaimer: T{us is a.summary of the Fina/Rule for initia!b�ief:reg purposes only. Entities subject to the rute
should refer to the rule text as published in the Federal Register on April 27,2005.
Horns rnay continue to be silenced at Pre-Rule Qulet Zones if—
� The average risk at the crossings is less than the NSRT; ar
Q The average risk is less than fin+ice the NSRT and no relevant collisians
have occurred within the past 5 years; or
� The community undertakes actions to compensate for lack of the train
horn as a warning device (or at least to reduce average risk to below
the NSRT}.
Train harns will not sound in existing whistle ban areas if authorities state their
intentian to maintain "Pre-Rule Quiet Zanes" and do whatever is required {see
above)within 5 years of the effective date (June 24, 2005) (8 years if the State
agency provides at least some assistance to communities in that State).
A "Pre-Rule Quiet Zone" is a quiet zone that contains one or more consecutive
grade crassings subject to a whistle ban that has been actively enforced or
observed as of October 9, 1996 and December 18, 2003.
To secure Pre-Rule Quiet Zone status, communities must provide proper
notification to FRA and other affected parties by June 3, 2005 and file a plan
with FRA by June 24, 20Q8 (if improvements are required).
Discdaimer: This is a summary of the Final Rule for initial briefrng purposes anly. Entities subject to the rule
should refer to dhe rule text as published in the Federal Register on Apri127,2005.
New Quiet Zones may be created if—
AI! public highway-rail grade crossings are equipped with flashing lights and
gates; and either—
✓ After adjusting for excess risk created by silencing the train harn, the
average risk at the crossings is less than the NSRT; or
J Supplemental Safety Measures are present at each public crossing; or
✓ Safety improvements are made that compensate for loss af the train horn
as a warning device (or at least to reduce average risk to below the
NSRl�.
Detailed instructions far establishing or requesting recognition of a quiet zone
are provided in the regulation.
4. Length of quiet zones;
� Generally, a quiet zone must be at least '/z mile in length and may include one or more
highway-rail grade crossings.
• Pre-Rule Quiet Zones may be retained at the length that existed as of October 9, 1996,
even if less than %s mile. A Pre-Rule Quiet Zane that is greater than'/s mile may be
reduced in length to no less than %z mile and retain its pre-rule statu.s. However, if its
length is increased frorn pre-rule length by the addition of highway-rail grade crossings
that are not pre-rule quiet zone crossings,pre-rule status will not be retained.
5. Supplementary and alternative safety measures:
• Supplementary safety measures are engineering improvemer►ts that clearly compensate
for the absence of the train harn. If employed at every highway-rail grade crossing in the
quiet zone,they automatically qualify the quiet zone(subject to reporting requirements).
They also may be used to reduce the average risk in the corridor in order to fully
compensate for the lack of a train or to below the NSRT.
✓ Temporary closure used with a partial zone;
✓ Fermanent closure of a highway-rail grade crossing;
✓ Four-quadrant gates;
Disclaimer: This is a summary ojthe Final Rule for inrtial brieftngpurposes only. Entities subject to the rule
should refer to the rule text as published in the Federal Register on April 27,2005.
✓ Gates with traf�ic channelization arrangernents(i.e.,non-mauntable curb or
moantabie curb with delineators}at least 100 feet in length on each side the
crossing(60 ft.where there is an intersecting roadway);
✓ 4ne-way Street with gate across the roadway.
� Alternative safety measures may be applied such that the cornbinatian of ineasures at one
or more highway-rail grade crossings reduces the average risk by the required amount
across the quiet zone(so-called"corridor approach").
✓ Any modified supplementary safety measure(e.g.,barrier gate and
median; shorter channelizatian);or
✓ Education and/or enforcement programs(including photo enforcement)
with veri�cation of effectiveness;or
✓ Engineering impravements,other than modified SSMs;or
✓ Combination of the above.
• The rule provides that pre-existing SSMs and pre-existing madified SSMs will be
counted towards risk reduction.
6. Recognition of the automated wayside lhorn:
• The rule authorizes use of the automated wayside horn at any highway-rail grade crossing
with flashing lights and gates(inside or autside a quiet zone}as a one-to-one substitute
for the train horn.
# Certa.in technical requirements appIy,consistent with the successful demonstrations of
this technology.
• The Federal Highway Administration(FHWA)has issued an interim approval far the use
of wayside harns as traf�ic control devices. Communities interested in employing this
option should contact FHWA to ensure that they comply with the provisions of the
interim approvaI.
7. Special circumstances:
• A community or railroad that views the provisions of the rule inapplicable to local
circumstances may request a waiver frorn the rule from FRA.
�► A railroad or community seeking a waiver must first consult with the other party and seek
agreement on the form of relief. If agreement cannot be achieved the party may still
request the relief by a waiver,provided tl�e FRA Associate Administrator detertnines that
a joint waiver petition would not be likely to contribute significantly to public safety.
Disclaimer: This is a summary of the Final Rule for initial brie�ng pwposes only. Eniities subject to the rule
should refer to the rute texi as published irr the Federal Register orr April27,2005.
• FRA grants waivers if in the public interest and consistent with the safety of highway and
railroad users ofthe highway-rail grade crossings.
8. Summary of major changes to the Interim Final Rule
• The final rule provides a one-year grace period to comply with New Quiet Zone
standards for communities with pre-existing whistle bans that were in effect on December
18,2003,but were adopted after October 9, 1996. These communities are considered
"Intermediate"Quiet Zones under the final rule.
• The ftnal rule addresses quiet zones that prohibit sounding of horns during the evening
andlor nighttime hours. These are referred to as Partial Quiet Zones.
• The fnal rule requires diagnastic team reviews of pedestrian crossings that are lacated
within proposed New Quiet Zones and New Partial Quiet Zones.
• The final rule requires quiet zone communities to retain automatic belis at public
highway-rail grade crossings that are subject to pedestrian traffic.
� The final rule extends"recognized State agency"status to State agencies that wish to
participate in the quiet zone development process.
* The final rule contains a 60-day comment period on quiet zone applications.
* The final rule requires public authorities to provide notification of their intent to create a
New Quiet Zone. During the 60-day period after the Notice of Intent is mailed,
comments rnay be submitted to the public authority.
• The fmal rule provides quiet zone risk reduction creciit for certain pre-existing SSMs.
• The final rule provides quiet zone risk reduction credit for pre-existing modified SSMs.
� The final rule conta,ins a new category of ASMs that addresses engineering improvements
other than mad�ed SSMs.
Additional infarmation, including the full text of the Final Rule,the Final Environmental Impact
Statement,and background documents,are available at http://www.fra.dot. o�v.
Disclaimer: This is a summary of the Firra7 Rule far initial briefrng purposes only. Entities suhject to the rule
should refer to the rule text as pubJished i»the Federal Register on April l7,2005.
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763-593-8079/763-593-8098(fax)
Executive Summary
Golden Valley Council/Manager Meeting
April 8, 2014
Agenda Item
4. Emergency Management Plan
Prepared By
Mark Kuhnly, Fire Chief
Summary
Staff will present to Council the City Emergency Management Plan. The presentation will include
the emergency operations center and emergency operations plan. The emergency operations
plan establishes a framework to prepare for, respond to, recover from and mitigate the impact of
a wide variety of disasters and emergency events.
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763-593-8013 J 763-593-8109(faxj
Executive Summary
Golden Valley Council/Manager Meeting
April 8, 2014
Agenda Item
5. Even Year Elections
Prepared By
Sue Virnig, Finance Director/City Clerk
Summary
At the January 11, 2014 City Council Workshop discussion was held to bring back to a future
Council/Manager meeting even year elections. Currently the City holds their municipal election in
odd years.
In March 2006, the City Council formed the Election Task Force to study City election processes
and presented their report to Council on January 2, 2007. The Task Force recommendation on
Even/Odd Years was: Recommendation: Golden Valley's municipal elections should remain on an
odd year cycle. The Task Force further recommended that greater efforts should be made to
increase voter awareness and turnout in local elections. Those efforts could include greater
coverage via the Golden Valley/New Hope Sun Post, Northwest Community Television (Cable 12J,
Golden Valley's newsletter and web site, as well as other media. Additionally, Golden Valley staff
should also explore the use of non-traditional sources for municipal election publicity. In 2007, the
term for mayor was changed from a two year term to a four year term based on the task force
recommendation.
Independent School District#281 Robbinsdale changed to even years starting in 2012.
Independent School District#270 Hopkins elections are held in odd years.
Even year elections can be accomplished by either changing the term on the next filing period for
elections in 2015 and 2017 or by extending the current term by one year. Either way requires
adoption of an ordinance. The ordinance amendment would require two considerations.
Attachments
• 2014 City Council Goal Setting Workshop minutes dated January 11, 2014 (3 pages)
• Election Task Force Recommendations Report, received and filed on January 2, 2007 (6 pages)
• Executive Summary- Ordinance#378- Providing for Four Year Term Mayoral Term dated
July 3, 2007 (2 pages)
• 2013 Minnesota Election Laws Section 205.07 subd. 1; subd. 3 (2 pages)
2014 City Council Goal Setting Workshop
Brookview Grill
January 11, 2014
Council Members Present: Mayor Shep Harris and Council Members Joanie Clausen, Larry
Fonnest, Steve Schmidgall, and Andy Snope.
Staff Present: City Manager Tom Burt, Park and Recreation Director Rick Birno, Police
Chief Stacy Carlson, Public Works Director Jeannine Clancy, Community Development
Director Mark Grimes, Assistant City Manager Chantell Knauss, Fire Chief Mark Kuhnly,
Finance Director Sue Virnig and Communications Manager Cheryl Weiler.
The meeting was convened at 8:35 am.
Discussion of Individual Council Members' vision: Mayor Harris asked for words that
described Council's role: and philosophy: committed, respectFul, receptive, progressive
development, excellent city services, collaborative government, citizen engagement,
representative, knowledgeable, trust, customer service opportunity, vitality, takes input,
communication with residents, consensus, sound judgment and decision making, visionary,
and for the greater good.
Understanding Mayor/Council and City Manager Roles: City Manager Burt explained the
Plan B form of government. The City Manager works for Council and the empfoyees of
Golden Valley work for him. Council sets policy and staff implements the policy.
Council Cohesion and Communication: Council would share letters to the editor or guest
columns prior to the piece being published. Staff will work together to get press releases
and educational pieces to the public. Social Media would help get the word out.
Outreach Options: Future Neighborhood Meetings or Listening Sessions will have an
agenda. Meetings will begin with an explanation that no opinion or action could take place
and all meetings will be posted. The location would have to be open to the public and
accessible by all. The Sessions will be quarterly on established dates for ease of publicity
and during the fourth week of the month.
Council Liaison Roles: Council appointments will be made and Council's role will now be to
serve as the primary contact on the Council for the Commission, Board or Committee.
Attendance is not required, with the exception of ce�tain ones which will be noted.
Calendar of Council Events: Council has many events/activities throughout the year such
as commission interviews, State of the City address, budget meetings, Golden Valley Days,
MN Night to Unite, neighborhood meetings, Mighty Tidy, and Open Houses for Police and
Fire.
The list of priorities submitted by Council was reviewed and each item was categorized into
one of three categories. Council then designated three items in each category that are top
priorities.
Council PrioritieslAction Items # Dots
Market, Rebrand Ci
Garba e - Sin le Hauler • •
Garba e - Collection one da /week
Senior Citizen Task Force
Garba e - Misc. Issues •
Destination Golden Valle Task Force • • • •
Low Interest Home Im rovement Loan Pro ram •
Foreclosure Prevention - Banks � • •
Bud et Adviso Committee • • • •
Arts Commission
Council/Mana er Worksessions # Dots
Golden Valle Business Council
Boards/Commissions/Council Relationshi s •
Ex lanation of Golden Valle Fund, Foundation, PRISM
Nei hborhoods Or anizin /Nei hborhood Names •
Explanation of Planning Processes (Comp Plan, PUDs, Subd., • • • •
McMansions
Ex lanation of Bid Process •
Instant Police Incident Re orts
Joint Council/School Boards Meetin
National Lea ue of Cities Attendance Bud et • •
After School Pro rams
Efficient Delive of Ci Services/Partnershi s • •
Buildin Permittin Process • • •
Review Inflow/Infiltration •
BoardslCommissions Review # Dots
Qualit Develo ment Buildin Materials • • •
Su ort Bassett Creek Reclamation
Stud Greenwa s, Hike/Bike Paths � •
Pedestrian Connections over Hi hwa 55 • • • •
Human Rights Commission - Empower Underrepresented •
Communities to be
More Involved
Human Ri hts Commission - Bull in Follow-u Pro rams
Creation of Do Park •
Health Communities Initiatives • •
Annual "State of the EnvironmenY' Re ort • •
The priorities with the most top priority designations will be brought forth for further
discussian at the next Council Goal Setting session.
Future Council/Manager Topics
Teen Council
Schuller's
Garbage Hauling
Train Noise - Quiet Zones
Elections - Move to Even Year
The second Goal Setting session will review City Finances and be held in April.
The meeting was adjourned at 1:07 pm.
RespectFully Submitted,
Tom Burt
City Manager
Election Task Force Recommendations Report
Purpose of Elections Task Force
The City Council formed the Election Task Force in March 2006 to study City election
processes. Task Force members further defined their mission to consider various facets
of the election process in terms of how those processes encourage participation and
involvement in civic affairs and voting in Golden Valley. The recommendations
contained in this report are inclusive versus exclusive and seek to foster citizen
participation in the electoral process.
The Task Force considered even versus odd year elections, finro-year versus four-year
mayoral terms, Council salaries, a possible City primary election, the process for filling
vacancies on the Gouncil, a code of ethics for candidates, and other topics. Some
topics originally scheduled for discussion, such as election by a ward system and
instant runoff voting (IRV), were deemed to be outside City control due to statutory
limitations. This does not mean there may not be continued interest in these topics by
the Council or residents of the City.
The Task Force was made up of the following members:
Gary Cohen, Chair
Anne Borgen, League of Women Voters representative
Jackie Dietz
Lynn Gitelis
Cindy Reichert
Jorge Saavedra
Khamben Sanavongsay
Marshall Tanick
Jeff Cater (Former Chair, resigned 5/06)
Staff Liaison Sue Virnig, Finance Director
Staff Liaison Edie Ernst, Accounts Receivable/Elections Assistant.
The Task Force held its organizational meeting in March where it was determined that
the most effective study of the issues would include information gathered from
Minnesota Statutes and ordinances and policies of the City of Golden Valley, as well as
policies and practices of other comparable cities. It was agreed at the onset that the
opinions of Golden Valley citizens should be an important part of the study. A"Voter
Fair" open house was held on September 27 to share information with and receive input
from our residents. In addition, regular communication about Task Force activities was
provided through the City's web site and newsletters.
The Task Force met monthly for approximately two hours each meeting. The
information that follows is the culmination of several months of study on the issues.
The Task Force wishes to thank the City of Shoreview for their 1992 Election Task
Force Report. This report provided us with a wealth of information for the topics we
discussed. Golden Valley now joins Shoreview as one of the few cities in the state of
Minnesota to create an Election Task Force.
Even/Odd Year Elections
Issue: Shou/d the City maintain its current schedu/e of odd year elections or move to
e/ections he/d in conjunction with State and Federal elections in even years?
As a Statutory Plan B City, Golden Valley may choose whether to hold
municipal elections in an odd or even year cycle. Golden Valley currently holds
elections in conjunction with the Hopkins and Robbinsdale School Board
elections in odd years. Discussion centered on voter turnout, the cost of running
an independent municipal election and practices of other comparable cities. A
survey of other cities was conducted.
The Task Force considered the pros and cons of each election cycle. Research
indicated that even year elections are less costly and voter turnout is much
higher. Because even year elections attract a higher turnout, its likely more
citizens would participate in the election of local officials.
Odd year elections help to maintain local identity and provide more media
coverage for local candidates and issues. The cost of campaigning may be less
for candidates that do not need to compete with state and federal candidates for
resident interest. Odd year elections are also historically less partisan. An
annual November election creates a mindset of civic responsibility and keeps
election laws and rules fresh in the minds of election judges. Moving to an even
year cycle would also force the two school districts to hold elections
independently of the City, or to change their own election cycle.
Discussion on voter turnout concluded that even though voter turnout may be
higher in an even year election, voters may not be educated on local issues.
Even in even year elections, there is drop-off from votes for national/state
issues to local issues. Task Force members were unanimous in their belief that
a greater effort on increasing voter turnout and awareness of local issues
should be made, regardless of which election cycle was recommended. This
election process may best be undertaken as a partnership with community
groups or in cooperation with other government partners.
Citizen input received at the Voter Fair showed that seven persons favored
even year elections and ten persons favored odd year elections. Task Force
discussions also reflected a discrepancy of views by its members on this
subject during lively discussion.
Recommendation: Golden Valley's municipal e/ections shou/d remain on an
odd year cycle. The Task Force further recommended that greater efforts
shou/d be made to increase voter awareness and turnout in local e/ections.
Those efforts cou/d inc/ude greater coverage via the New Hope/Golden Valley
Sun Post, Northwest Community Television (Cab/e 12), Golden Valley's
news/etter and web site, as well as other media. Additionally, Go/den Valley
staff shou/d a/so explore the use of non-traditiona/sources for municipal
e/ection publicity.
Mavoral Term
Issue: Shou/d the term of the Mayor remain a two year term, or should the term be a
four year term?
The Mayoral term in Golden Valley is currently a two year term while all City Council
Member terms are four years. Commission members contacted other Plan B cities to
ask the following questions:
• What is the current Mayoral term length in your city?
• Do you have a preference for term length?
• If so, what is the reason for your preference?
Responses indicated that eight of the twelve cities surveyed preferred a four year
term length. Reasons stated were that the four year term allowed more time to
establish relationships and trust within the constituent base. Four years also allowed
more time to learn the job and take on large-scale issues. Some responders
believed the longer term provided more continuity and stability for the City. Some
cities stated that with a two year term, campaigning becomes burdensome and can
distract the Mayor from other issues.
Fourteen citizens surveyed at the Voter Fair preferred a four year term and three
persons thought the term should be just two years.
Recommendation: The Task Force strongly supports a move to a four year Mayoral
term. Establishing the longer term length will require adjustments in election cycles.
The process used to accomplish that change will require further consideration.
Council Salaries
Issue: Is the current level of compensation for Mayor and Council Members
appropriate?
The Task Force reviewed Council and Mayor salary comparisons. In addition to
the salary amount, the Task Force considered how the City could attract a more
diverse group of candidates for Council and Mayoral seats. Ideas brought forth
included: increased monetary compensation, tuition reimbursement and other
education benefits, the opportunity to participate in City insurance plans, and
reimbursement for meeting and travel expenses related to the work of the
Council Members. The Task Force questioned how an ordinance providing
additional benefits for Council Members would be enacted, and what authority
the city has to provide non-traditional forms of compensation.
The group considered the premise that Council salaries may be considered to be
symbolic. They discussed the purpose of Council compensation and the effect
compensation and benefit levels may have on potential candidates and their
decision to run.
Responses from the Voter Fair indicated that seven persons believed the Council
salary should be increased, and eight believed the salaries should not be
increased or should stay the same.
Recommendation: The Task Force recommends further deliberation by the City
Council in setting compensation limits and offers the following considerations to
guide that Council discussion:
1. Consider ro/e of salaries in decision to run; encourage access of under-
represented communities in seeking and ho/ding office; define what the
symbolic role of compensation means to members of Council.
2. Council "across the board increase"in salaries; stipend to be at or near
the top of sa/ary scale for like communities.
3. Enact ordinance that will provide for cost of living increase, Council
stipend or some other"objective measurement".
�. Shou/d include enhanced benefits, such as tuition reimbursement, as a
means of encouraging Council participation; c/asses taken should be
re/evant to City business and there should be "some"maximum on
reimbursement amount.
Process for fillinq vacancv on Council
Issue: Is the process current/y in p/ace for filling vacancies on the council adequate?
Task Force members invited City Attorney Barnard to join in the discussion on
this topic. State law requires the City Council to appoint a replacement to serve
out the balance of the term in the case of a vacancy. Council has the authority to
adopt an ordinance calling for a special election to fill a vacancy, or to determine
the process it will use to make a Council appointment. Given the cost of a
special election and the rarity of vacancies, the Task Force agreed that the laws
currently in place provide adequate guidance. Also given the fact that vacancies
may occur for differing reasons and at different times, the option for flexibility in
determining an appropriate process for filling a vacancy is important to maintain.
The Task Force also reviewed statute sections regarding removal of a Council
Member and determined that no additional options exist for the City on this topic
beyond current statutes.
Recommendation: We recommend no changes to the current process for filling
Council vacancies.
Code of Ethics
Issue: Shou/d Council adopt a loca/ Code of Ethics beyond that which is called for in
statute?
As part of this study, Task Force members reviewed a document analyzing the
City's resolution and applicable state laws submitted by City Attorney Barnard.
City ordinances that have been studied appear by their language and previous
interpretations to prohibit board and commission members from providing
monetary support or personal support to candidates for elective City positions.
Current ordinances and statutes prohibit quid pro quo and similar wrongful
behavior. In light of recent Supreme Court decisions, including White versus
Republican Party of Minnesota, it is clear that the court supports the broadest
interpretation of freedom of speech and financial involvement in elections.
Board and commission members are among the most active Golden Valley
citizens and there should be no prohibition on this type of involvement that is
allowed by other Golden Valley residents.
Additionally, the Task Force encourages the City Council to study whether a
voluntary campaign code of ethics should be adopted for Golden Valley
municipal elections. The League of Women Voters "Minnesota Compact on
Campaign Standards" could be reviewed as a model for such a voluntary code.
Recommendation: City Council should review re/evant City ordinances and
remove restrictive /anguage regarding board and commission member
involvement in City e/ections in concert with recent court rulings and prevailing
law.
The Task Force encourages the City Council to study whether a voluntary
campaign code of ethics shou/d be adopted for Golden Valley municipal
e/ections.
Municipal Primaries
Issue: Shou/d the City have a municipa/primary?
The Task Force studied recent municipal elections in Golden Valley and noted
that large numbers of persons have not filed for municipal offices. Should a trend
of larger numbers of individuals filing for municipal office be seen in the future
(for example, more than double the number of people filing as to be elected), the
topic of the advisability for a primary should be revisited. Recent legislative
changes to require school boards to hold primaries have been met with
resistance.
Recommendation: A municipal primary is not appropriate or needed at this time
in Go/den Valley.
Conclusion
The Golden Valley Elections Task Force hereby submits this report to the City Council
with the recommendations outlined above. Members found the assignment interesting
and rewarding.
During our discussions, we learned that there is an orientation package for Council
candidates. Based on what we learned as a group during our meetings, the Elections
Task Force would be willing to help review and revise this package to provide for more
informed candidates for municipal office in Golden Valley.
Should Council wish to assign the Task Force to further study of these or any other
related issues, please do not hesitate to reconvene its members.
Respectfully Submitted,
Chair Gary Cohen
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Executive Summary For Action
Golden Valley City Council Meeting
July 3, 2007
Agenda Item
6. A. Second Consideration - Ordinance #378 - Providing for Four Year Mayoral Term
Prepared By
Sue Virnig, Finance Director/City Clerk
Summary
This ordinance was adopted by the City Council on First Consideration at the June 19, 2007
meeting. If the Council adopts the ordinance, the Secretary of State and Hennepin County
will be notified of the change and the ordinance will be published in the SunPost. The Notice
of Election will be published in the August 9, 2007 SunPost. The opening of the filing period
begins August 28, 2007.
Minnesota Statute 205.7 states "The term of office for the mayor may be either two or four
years." Golden Valley is a statutory city and a Plan B Form of government. Minnesota Statute
412.02 outlines the staggered terms for a five member council.
The Election Task Force did unanimously agree to the Four Year Mayoral Term.
Attachments
Ordinance #378, Providing for Four Year Mayoral Term (1 page)
Recommended Action
Motion to adopt on Second Consideration, Ordinance #378, Providing for Four Year Mayoral
Term.
ORDINANCE NO. 378, 2ND SERIES
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CITY CODE
Providing for Four Year Mayoral Term
The City Council for the City of Golden Valley hereby ordains as follows:
Section 1. Section 2.08 of the City Code is hereby amended by placing the
words "Subdivision 1" before the first paragraph thereof and adding the following:
Subdivision 2. The mayor's term of office shall be four years,
commencing with the ensuing term after the effective date hereof.
Section 2. City Code Chapter 1 entitled "General Provisions and Definitions
Applicable to the Entire City Code Including Penalty for Violation" and Section 2.99
entitled "Violation a Misdemeanor" are hereby adopted in their entirety, by reference, as
though repeated verbatim herein.
Section 3. This Ordinance shall take effect after its publication as required by
law.
Adopted by the City Council this 3rd day of July, 2007.
/s/Linda R. Loomis
Linda R. Loomis, Mayor
ATTEST:
/s/Susan M. Virniq
Susan M. Virnig, City Clerk
2013 MINNESOTA ELECTION LAWS
Subd. 2. Resolution or ordinance. The governing body of a city may, by ordinance or resolution
adopted by April 15 in the year when a municipal general election is held, elect to choose nominees for
municipal offices by a primary as provided in this section. The resolution or ordinance, when adopted,
is effeetive for all ensuing municipal elections until it is revoked. The municipal clerk shall notify the
secretary of state and the county auditor within 30 days after the adoption of the resolution or ordinance.
Subd. 3. Repealed, 1994 c 646 s 28.
Subd. 4. Candidates, filing. The clerk shall place upon the primary ballot without partisan
designation the names of individuals whose candidacies have been filed and for whom the proper filing
fee has been paid. When not more than twice the number of individuals to be elected to a municipal
office file for nomination for the office, their names shall not be placed upon the primary ballot and shall
be placed on the municipal general election ballot as the nominees for that office.
Subd. 5. Results. (a)The municipal primary shall be conducted and the returns made in the manner
provided for the state primary so far as practicable. If the primary is conducted:
(1) only within that municipality, a canvass may be conducted on either the second or third day
after the priinary; or
(2) in conjunction with the state primary, the canvass must be conducted on the third day after the
primary, except as otherwise provided in paragraph (b).
The governing body of the municipality shall canvass the returns, and the two candidates for each
office who receive the highest number of votes, or a number of candidates equal to twice the number of
individuals to be elected to the office, who receive the highest number of votes, shall be the nominees
for the office named. Their names shall be certified to the municipal clerk who shall place them on the
municipal general election ballot without partisan designation and without payment of an additional fee.
(b) Following a municipal primary as described in paragraph(a), clause (2), a canvass may be
conducted on the second day after the primary if the county auditor of each county in which the
municipality is located agrees to administratively review the municipality's primary voting statistics for
accuracy and completeness within a time that permits the canvass to be conducted on that day.
Subd. 6. Recount. A losing candidate at the municipal primary may request a recount of the votes
for that nomination subject to the requirements of section 204C.36. �
Subd. 7. Repealed. 2011 c 65 s 9
History: 1983 c 62 s 2; 1987 c 62 s �„7; �989 c 209 art 1 s 19; 1994 c 646 s 4,5; 201 D c 184 s 26,
27; 2010c194s21; 2010c201 s57; 2011 c65s5; 2011 c65s9
NOTES AND DECISIONS
205.065
Wl�ere charter provides for primaiy election,charter controls timing of the primaty. Op.Atty.Cen.64-M,September 14, 1951.
205.07 MS 1957 Repealed, 1959 c 675 art 13 s l
205.07 CITY GENERAL ELECTION.
Subdivision 1. Date of election. The municipal general election in each city shall be held on the
�rst Tuesday after the first Monday in November in every even-numbered year. Notwithstanding any
provision of law to the contraly and subject to the provisions of this section, the governing body of a ciry
may, by ordi�iance passed at a regular meeting held before June 1 of any year, elect to hold the election
on the first Tuesday after the �irst Monday in November in each odd-numbered year. A city may hold
elections in eith�r the even-numbered year or tl�e odd-numbered year, but not both. When a city
changes its elections from one year to another, and does not provide for the expiration of ternls by
ordinance, th� term of an incumbent eXpirizlg at a time when no municipal election is held in the months
immediately prior to expiration is ex�ended until the date for taking office following the next scheduled �
municipal election. If the change results in having three council membeis to be elected at a succeeding
election, the two individuals receiving the highest vote shall serve for terms of four years and the
176
2013 MINNESOTA ELECTION LAWS
individual receiving the third highest number of votes shall serve for a term of two years. To provide an
orderly transition to the odd or even year election plan, the governing body of the city may adopt
supplementary ordinances regulating initial elections and officers to be chosen at the elections and
shortening or lengthening the terms of incumbents and those elected at the initial election. The term of
office for the mayor may be either two or four years. The term of office of council members is four
years. Whenever the time of the municipal election is changed, the city clerk immediately shall notify in
writing the county auditor and secretary of state of the change of date. Thereafter the municipal general
election shall be held on the first Tuesday after the �rst Monday in November in each odd-numbered or
even-numbered year until the ordinance is revoked and notification of the change is made. A municipal
general election scheduled to be held in an odd-numbered year may be postponed for inclement weather
as provided in section 205. 105.
Subd. 1 a. City council members; expiration of terms. The terms of all city council members of
charter cities expire on the first Monday in January of the year in which they expire.
Subd. 2. Repealed, 1976 c 44 s 70
Subd. 3. Effect of ordinance; referendum. An ordinance changing the year of the municipal
election is effective 240 days after passage and publication or at a later date fixed in the ordinance.
Within 180 days after passage and publication of the ordinance, a petition requesting a referendum on
the ordinance may be filed with the city clerk. The petition shall be signed by eligible voters equal in
number to ten percent of the total number of votes cast in the city at the last municipal general election.
If the requisite petition is filed within the prescribed period, the ordinance shall not become effective
until it is approved by a majority of the voters voting on the question at a general or special election held
at least 60 days after subrnission of the petition. If the petition is �led, the governing body inay
reconsider its action in adopting the ordinance.
History: 1959 c 675 af•t 6 s 7; 1973 c 123 art 3 s 4; 1974 c 337 s 3; 1976 c 44 s S; 1981 c 29 a�•t 7
s 38; 1983 c 62 s 3; 1986 c 444; 1991 c 227 s 19,20; 1994 c 646 s 6; 1995 c 8 s S; 2010 c 201 s 58, 59
NOTES AND DECISIONS
205.07
Upon effective date of 1994 and 1995 amendments,tliis section would apply to bot6 home-rule and statutory citics. Op.Atty.Gen.64f,October 27,
1995.
The adoption of a resolution rather than ordinauce changing the date for a villagc election and so worded as to affect future clections,is valid and
would control future election.Op.Atty.Gen.472F,October 26,1966.
205.075 TOWN GENERAL ELECTION.
Subdivision 1. Date of election. The general election in a town must be held on the second
Tuesday in March, except as provided in subdivision 2 or when moved for bad weather as provided in
section 365.51, subdivision l.
Subd. 2. Alternate date. A town may, by resolution or ordinance, designate the first Tuesday after
the first Monday in November of either the even-numbered or the odd-numbered year as the date of the
town general election. Town supervisors elected at a November town general election shall serve four-
year terms. The ordinance or resolution changing the date of the town general election must include a
plan to shorten or lengthen the terms of office to provide an orderly transition to the November election
schedule. The ordinance or resolution changing the date of the town general election may be proposed
by the town board or by a resolution of the electors adopted at the annual town meeting and is effective
upon an affirinative vote of the electors at the next town general election.
Subd. 2a. Return to March election. The town board of a town that has adopted the alternative
November election date under subdivision 2 may, after having conducted at least two elections on the
alternative date, adopt a resolution designating the second Tuesday in March as the date of the town
general election. The resolution must be adopted by a unanimous vote of the town supervisors and must
include a plan to shorten or lengthen the tenns of office to provide an orderly transition to the March
177
Cl�"� U� f,�, ` �,�s,.
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City Administration/Councii
763-593-8003/763-593-8109(fax)
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Executive Summary
Golden Valley Council/Manager Meeting
April 8, 2014
Agenda Item
6. League of Minnesota Cities Annual Conference and National League of Cities Congress of Cities and
Exposition
Prepared By
Thomas Burt, City Manager
Summary
At its April 1 meeting the Council requested this item be placed on the agenda to discuss conferences
and the out-of state travel policy. The League of Minnesota Cities Annual Conference will be held June
18-20 in St. Cloud, Minnesota and the National League of Cities Congress of Cities and Exposition will be
held November 19-22 in Austin Texas.
Attachment
• Resolution 05-68 - Resolution Establishing the Elected Official Out-of-State Travel Policy (3 pages)
• Council Meeting Expense Budget (1 page)
Resolution 05-68 November 15, 2005
Member Grayson introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING THE ELECTED OFFICIAL
OUT-OF-STATE TRAVEL POLICY
WHEREAS, the 2005 Minnesota Legislature required political subdivisions to
develop a policy that controls travel of elected officials outside the state of Minnesota; and
WHEREAS, the City of Golden Valley recognizes that its elected officials may at
times receive value from traveling out of the state for workshops, conferences, events and
other assignments;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Golden
Valley that it hereby adopts the attached Elected Official Out-of-State Policy which
establishes the conditions under which out-of-state travel will be reimbursed, in accordance
with Minnesota Statute 471.661 Section 38;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this policy will be reviewed annually and is
available for public inspection upon request, as required by statute.
Linda R. Loomis, Mayor
ATTEST:
Donald G. Taylor, City Clerk
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was seconded by Member Shaffer
and upon a vote being taken thereon, the following voted in favor thereof: Freiberg,
Grayson, Loomis, Pentel and Shaffer; and the following voted against the same: none,
whereupon said resolution was declared duly passed and adopted, signed by the Mayor
and her signature attested by the City Clerk.
Resolution 05-68 - Continued November 15, 2005
ELECTED OFFICIAL OUT-OF-STATE TRAVEL POLICY
Purpose:
The City of Golden Valley recognizes that its elected official may at times receive value
from traveling out of the state for workshops, conferences, events and other assignments.
This policy sets forth the conditions under which out-of-state travel will be reimbursed by
the City.
General Guidelines:
1. The event, workshop, conference or assignment must be approved in advance by
the City Council at an open meeting and must include an estimate of the cost of the
travel. In evaluating the out-of-state travel request, the Council will consider the
following:
• Whether the elected official will be receiving training on issues relevant to the
City or to his or her role as the Mayor or as a Council Member;
• Whether the elected official will be meeting and networking with other elected
officials from around the country to exchange ideas on topics of relevance to
the City or on the official roles of local elected officials.
• Whether the elected official will be viewing a city facility or function that is
similar in nature to one that is currently operating at, or under consideration
by the City where the purpose for the trip is to study the facility or function to
bring back ideas for the consideration of the full Council.
• Whether the elected official has been specifically assigned by the Council to
visit another city for the purpose of establishing a goodwill relationship such
as a "sister-city" relationship.
• Whether the elected official has been specifically assigned by the Council to
testify on behalf of the City at the United States Congress or to otherwise
meet with federal officials on behalf of the City.
• Whether the City has sufficient funding available in the budget to pay the cost
of the trip.
2. No reimbursements will be made for attendance at events sponsored by or affiliated
with political parties.
3. The City may make payments in advance for airfare, lodging and registration if
specifically approved by the council. Otherwise all payments will be made as
reimbursements to the elected official.
4. The City will reimburse for transportation, lodging, meals, registration, and incidental
costs using the same procedures, limitations and guidelines outlined in the City's
policy for out-of-state travel by City employees.
5. Airfare will be reimbursed at the coach rate.
Resolution 05-68 - Continued November 15, 2005
6. Mileage will be reimbursed at the IRS rate. If two or more Council Members travel
together by car, only the driver will receive reimbursement. The City will reimburse
for the cost of renting an automobile if necessary to conduct City business.
7. Lodging and meal costs are limited to those which are reasonable and necessary.
8. Receipts are required for lodging, airfare, and meals and should accompany an
expense report form. It is not necessary to have receipts for cabs and tips. The
expense report form shall be submitted to the Finance Department for payment.
9. The City will not reimburse for alcoholic beverages, personal telephone calls, costs
associated with the attendance of a family member, rental of luxury vehicles, meal
expenses included in the cost of registration, or recreational expenses such as golf
or tennis.
City Council Program 1001
6411-Conferences and Schools
2012 2013 2014 2014 20'15 2015 2016
Descri tion Actual Actual Ado ted Estimate Conce t Pro osed Concept
Commission Dinner, Food, Coffee, and Misc 1,936 1,591 2,300 2,$00 2,300
National Conferences
2013-Seattle Harris 2,654
State Conferences 350 1,500 1,500 1,500
LMC, Munici als, Council Misc
Seminars&Trainin misc 1,572 742 800 800 800
SLUC Meetin s 38 120 120 120
Envision/O en House
Ice Cream Social 843
Lilac Planin Lunch 132 100
Dedication-Pla ue 89
Carin Youth 500 500 500
$4,922 $5,125 $5,220 $0 $5,220 $5,220 $0
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Cit Administration Council
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Executive Summary
Golden Valley Council/Manager Meeting
April 8, 2014
Agenda Item
7. Boards and Commissions: Appointments-Reappointments-Recognition Dinner
Prepared By
Thomas Burt, City Manager
Summary
At its January Council/Manager meeting the Council consensus was to discuss the vacancies in
April or May. Some of the questions for consideration are:
� When interviews should be scheduled?
� Should previous applicants be interviewed again?
� Should the entire Council be present at the interviews or just the new Council Members?
� Should Board of Zoning Appeals alternates be appointed or rely on Planning Commission
as alternates?
Staff will provide an updated list of board/commission vacancies and a list of applicants available
to fill them. The list will be distributed at the Council/Manager meeting.
The Council should also decide from the list below when the Board/Commission Recognition
Dinner should be held. The available dates are as follow:
May 7 (Wednesday)
May 14 (Wednesday)
June 4 (Wednesday)
June 11 (Wednesday
June 12 (Thursday)
June 26 (Thursday)
�l��1 C)�
Cit Administration Council
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763-593-8003/763-593-8109(fax)
_ M . y.� : .. ��
Executive Summary
Golden Valley Council/Manager Meeting
April 8, 2014
Agenda Item
8. Name Badges
Prepared By
Thomas Burt, City Manager
Summary
The Council requested staff provide new designs for enlarging the name badges.
Attachment
• Name badge options (1 page)
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