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99-756City of St_ Pau1 RESOLII2IO23 RATIF"YING ASSESSMEf7T �me.�e� - S�p�-. � :t,\�t`�,� � � � Voting Ward In the matter of the assessment of benefits, cast and e�cpenses for 2 39904B1 (9840) Boarding-up oE 600 - 7 St. W. during the month of April 1999_ � Mre.v�ri.>�' • J�-�. � 4 0 . COUNCIL FILE NO_ 1 6" � S� By File No. SEE BELOW Assessment No. SEE BELOW �S. � � LAID OVER BY COUNCIL ON 7-28-99 TO 8-4-99 ��' r TBERE WILL BE NO LEGISI,ATIVE IiEARING ��; A public hearing having been had upon the assessment for the above improvement, and said assessment having been further considered by the Council, and having been considered finally satisfactory, there£ore, be it RESOLVED, That the said assessment be and the same is hereby in all respects ratified. RESOLVED FURTHER, That the said assessment be and it is hereby determined to be payable in One equal installments. COUNCILPERSON Yeas Nays nanav �akey �ostrom ✓Coleman ✓-�Iarris ntry eiter � In Favor sg_Agains t Adopted by the Council: Date J�l�.� . b -�,�� .� Certified Passes by Council Secretary � ti � a a n a � � E 0 W rn � E � � � Q J � � v � 0 � � / � �/ U ( (� h Cj�j a a a . o � w ad � � H a � z H � � W x H z � w O � a � H U a � � � rn m N � 0 c 0 � ri �o Q iM � Q i � H i O � � N i rn 'n E C •• � a i i ^' w�m \� O�N � a�m a � <v � � � � 0 �,d oo �� ao�� N r1 ➢ � 1 �� 11 1 �� ' x n � � �y t ii U � F II ; �� W II 1 i/l 1 O00 H�000 H 1 O O O � I O O O i . . • �o.�s a i � O�N E� U � � � W i W�000 E�000 r.0 o00 w � . i N � � H � c� �-+ H i � 1 t i i i i i � ; 1 1 1 � � I I 1 1 i i � w � cv � � � ' ��] x � � w c� � z �zww � OiQH� i ��Q� � w � m rC cn � 1 � x o i E tio �i i no�� i � H i W � U1 � i ONrn i , o �, w � � E+ � E a�3� � P, � o v�iwqw � H i H z W � ck � E E fa FC o [-+ � m�A �a�aF� z � W i q W W N ri i Q i FC in ti W i 7� i u]]u x� i N a' � 3ao�2w �. �� W i O E P. ai i w i.7 E W W W W m � O i�n2 h 0000 + N � R�i I ~ /rHll� fii �'i � a s r-i FC �[�+ H E+ o�� mmmw�wa m � � i i � m i i m i � M � U] N rl i 1 O 61 r 1 � w' � ��a o i r � c7a� •. � a � r i FC � a0£�m i E iwqOE� i w' � mbF.rV` � o��xW ' w i o o q i � �ow�oz � 3��orn� � O� Gl o.7 # x i 0 0 o u o 0 0 o I I o . i� . o �n �n n o ifl N rl II T N +/++? 11 N �? 11 vx n n II il u n n n n I II n u n � II a n P n c9 w � ii H II� q CGH�iio O� W 1 i F �� ii U aaanw �Ca�Cnh E+E+E n O 000 n fk E+EH Ila m w U � a E a W k w 0 � a U � a `i �iq -��G To T.egislative Hearing Officer - No I.egislative Hearing Public HearinQ Date - 8-4-99 T.M.S./REAL ESTATE DIVISION ;ontaM Person and Pho Roatana Flink �. 266-8859 �� ne aa co,��a ng�aa ny: Public hearing is set or 8-4-99. Rust be in Council Research �ce Date: . e..a RE-7-30-99 � q.R -'�SG 7/29/99 Green Sheet Nwnber: 09496 i� �EPARTMENTDIRECfOR ITYCOUNCII, ATTORNEY DIILECIOR CLERS & MGT. SVG DIIL 1 ICOUNCII. RESEARCH AL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES 1 (CLIP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATURE) ION REQUESTED: At Council's request on 7-28-99 to 8-4-99, Boarding-up of vacant bldg for property at 600 - 7`n St. W. during the month of April 1999, J9904B1 was laid over for further discussion. PLANNA'G COilRhI15SION CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION CIB COHM1TfEE ns whidh Councit Objective Neighborhoods A STAFF . Has We person/firm ever worked under a contract for t6is depar�ent? YES NO A Public Health . Has fLis person/firm ever been a City employee? YES NO A Vanm Bldg ' D°es llus pers°dfirm possess a s]dll not aormally possessed by any YES NO __ current City employee. Ezplain ail YES aaswers oa a separate sheet and attach. VG PROBLEM, ISSUE, OPPORTONTTY (4Vho, What, When, Where, Why?): "SEE ORIGINAL GREEN SFIEET NUMBER 63735" IFAPPROVED: IF AYPROVED: IF NOT APYROVED: �L AMOUNT OF TRANSACTION: �2fO.00 COST/REVENUE BUDGETED (CIRCLE ONE) �ING SOURCE: ASSCSSITICRYS OIlIy' ACTIVITYNUMBER: KCIAL INFORMATIO�': (EXPLAiIh 1 propertv owners wili be notified of the nublic hearins and charaes. YES NO City of St. Paul Real Estate Division Dept, of Techaology & Managemeat Serv REPORT OF COMPLETION OF ASSESSMENT COUNCIL FILE NO. /�� ` File No. SEE BELOW Assessment No_ SEE BELOW Voting Ward In the matter of the assessment of benefits, cost and expenses for 2 J9904B1 (9840) Boarding-up of 600 - 7"' St. W. during the month of April 1999. LAID OVER BY COUDICIL ON 7-28-44 TO 8-4-49 TEiERE WILL SE NO LEGISLATIVE HEARING To the Council of the City of St. Paul q�--t5� The Valuation and Assessment Engineer hereby reports to the Council the following as a statement of the e�enditures necessarily incurred for and in connection with the making of the above improvement, viz: Total construction costs $�`s0 0� FL �-�-C3 c'l Valuation and Assessment Services $ Administration Charge - Public Aealth $ 25.00 Re-Check Charge - Public Health $ Abatement Service Charge $ 15.00 TOTAL E%PENDITURES $�'Bd �� °2 �° �� Charge To $ /� Net Assessment $298�6fr� dy" � ��', � � Said Valuation and Assessment Engineer further reports that he has assessed and levied the total amount as above ascertained, to-wit: the sum of $290.00 upon each and every lot, part or parcel of land deemed benefited by the said improvement, and in the case of each lot, part or parcel of land in accordance with the benefits conferred thereon; that the said assessment has been completed, and that hereto attached, identified by the signature of the said Valuation and Assessment Engineer, and made a part hereof, is the said assessment as completed by him, and which is herewith submitted to the Council for such action t,,.hereon as may be considered proper. // �„ „ Dated 7 � c�-9- 9 �1 and Assessment Engineer �q _ �s� �� •�� Date: September 7, 1999 Time: 10:00 a.m. Piace: Room 330 City Hall 15 Wesi Kellogg Boulevard LEGISLATIVE HEARING Gerry Strathman Legislarive Hearing Officer 1. Summary Abatement: Boarding up of vacant building at 600 Seventh Street West, Jessica Martin. (J9904B) (Per City Council meeting of 8/4/99) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $85 plus the $40 administrative fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $125. 2. Summary Abatements: File J9905A Property clean-up and/or grass cutting during June 1994 File J9905C Demolifion of vacant buildings during June 1999 File J9903V Towing of abandoned vehicles from private property during March 1999 File J9905B Boarding up of vacant building during May 1999 File SSA9901 Sanitary sewer service repairs 986 Colne Street (File SSA9901) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $3,566 plus the $40 administrative fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $3,606. 995 Kennazd Street (File J9905C) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 1790 Wordsworth Avenue (File J9905A) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the labor chazge by half, making it $315 for labor, leaving the 6 yazd disposal fee at $108, pius the $40 administrative fee, for a totai assessment of $463. 942 Carroll Avenue (File J9905A) Gerry Strathman recommended deleting the assessment. 430-�34 Case Avenue (File 79905A) Gerry Strathman recommended approving the assessment. 599 Pavne Avenue (File J99QSA) Gerry Strathman recommended approving the assessment. c�q.7S� LEGISLATIVE AEARING REPORT OF 9-7-99 Page 2 3. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 805 Agate Street. If the owner faiLs to comply with the resolufion, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the November 2, 1999, Legisiarive Hearing. 4. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1087 Ross Avenue. If the owner fails to compiy with the resolufion, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended approval. rrn c�q.�S6 NIINUTES OF THE LEGISLATIVE HEA.RING Tuesday, September 7,1999 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer STAFF PRESENT: Roxanne Flink, Real Estate; Bobbi Levitan, Housing Information Office (HIO); Steve Magner, Code Enforcemem; Chuck Votel, Code Enforcement; Guy VJillits, Code Enforcement The meeting was called to order at 10:00 am. Summary Abatement: Boarding up of vacant building at 600 Seventh Street West, Jessica Martin. (J9904B) (Per City Council meeting of 8!4l99) Jessica Martin stated she received an assessment for boazding up a vacant building; however, the building was not vacant. There was a burglary in April, the burglars came in the back screen, and lifted the metal grate. The police were called. The company that boarded up the properry put four screws in the screen. Since then, the azea is blocked in with concrete blocks, and that only cost $450. Ms. Martin questions the charge just to install screws, and why the building owners were not contacted. (Ms. Martin showed a photograph to Gerry Strathman.) Guy Willits reported this was an emergency boarding. The Fire Department called for the emergency contractor, and this is what the contractor charged. The assessment is for one trip plus securing the property. (Mr. Willits presented paperwork.) Mr. Strathman explained when the police or fue aze called to an emergency situation, they are not allowed to leave the property unsecured. The City has a contractor that will come when called, and secure the properry so the police and fire personnel can leave. The terms of the agreement is that the contractor will be paid $200 per trip. Once the company is at the property, there is an addifional fee for securing the properry. Mr. Strathman stated these are usually not contested because they are covered by insurance. Ms. Martin responded this is the second burglary and the insurance company is not paying anymore. Gerry Strathman recommended the assessment be reduced to $85 plus the $40 administrative fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $125. Summary Abatements: File J9905A Property clean-up andlor grass cutting during June 1999 File J9905C Demolition of vacant buildings during June 1999 File J9903V Towing of abandoned vehicles from private property during March 1999 File J9905B Boarding up of vacant buiiding during May 1999 File SSA9901 Sanitary sewer service repairs � LECsISLA'ITVE HEARING MINUTES OF 9-7-99 986 Colne Street (File SSA9901) Page 2 Jody Thraen, owner, appeared and stated she purchased her home in May 1997. In Augus� she discovered she had a rat problem. She had numerous exterminators come to her house to give her suggestions to clear up this problem. She spent hundreds of dollazs trying to get rid of the rats. She called several City offices for help, and they told her to call an esterminator. One ea�terminator told her there was a break in the sewer line and to call Public VJorks. Public Works gave her the name and number of a person who videotapes sewers. This man videotaped her sewer line and discovered a break in it. Ms. Thraen had that section replaced. However, rats still came into her home. Ms. Thraen cailed her City council member who got her in touch with Chuck Votel. He came out with a sewer contractor, who observed there were rats in the house. They found there were multiple breaks in the sewer line. The contractor suggested the entire sewer pipe be replaced from the main a11 the way to the street, and they estimated it would cost between $3,000 to $4,000. Ms. Thraen agreed to pay that cost. Later, they realized it would go beyond that price. She had no chance to get second bids. Gerry Strathman asked was she told what was happening. Mr. Thraen responded the sewer pipe was further below ground than anticipated. There was a tree in the front yazd which prevented them from getting into the street, the sidewalk had to be dug up. Ms. Thraen wanted to put a halt on the whole thing because she could not afford it. She was told to finish the project and worry about paying for it later. It ended up being three times more than it was quoted. Since then, there is no rat problem. If this assessment is put on her tases she will not be able to live there. Bobbi Levitan, Ramsey County Mortgage Foreclosure Prevention Program, appeazed and stated she worked with Ms. Thraen, who was refened by the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency. Ms. Thraen did everything she was told by professionals, City personnel, contractors, and externunators. Ms. Levitan was able to secure money for Ms. Thraen to get the camera test done. It was later found that the camera test was not done correctly. It should have been done all the way to the main sewer, but it was videotaped to the first break and stopped, Chuck Votel reported the conuactor estimated the project to be about $3,000. It was Code EnforcemenYs decision that the entire line needed to be replaced. There was convincing evidence that rats were not just entering the basement, but also escaping into the neighborhood. Despite Ms. Thraen's direction that she couid not afford the fee, it was Mr. Votel's decision to complete the repair so it would not be a problem for the neighborhood. The cost went way over what was estimated. It included restoring the retaining wall, sidewalk, and some other things. The original estimate was $3,000, asked Mr. Strathman. Ms. Thraen responded $3,600 has been paid. Mr. Strathman recommended raducing the assessment to $3,566 plus the $40 service charge, which brings the assessment t4 a total of $3,606. The City policy is cleaz on this issue: property owners are responsible for the sewer line on their property. In view of the fact that Ms. Thraen operated in accordance with the advice given by City officials, and given Mr. Votel's q LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 9-7-99 Page 3 determination that this was a public safety issue, ffiese two things can be taken into consideration in mitigating this case. 995 Kennard Street (File J9905C) Jean Osteraas, owner, appeazed and stated she purchased this house at the t� forfeit auction in April. 'There was a small Quonset (taut) on that property. She said she would like to keep that structure, and would clean it out. She planned to build a small manufacturing plant and to use the Quonset to store materials. (Ms. Osteraas showed picture of her plans to Mr. Strathman.) Ms. Osteraas was told by someone from the tas forfeit office that they would see what they could do with the city regazding demolition of the Quonset. Ms. Osteraas was told that if the Counry was not successful and there was demolition, that would be announced at the day of the auction. She went to the o�ce one morning, and there was no mention that the Quonset was demolished the previous day. All the paperwork reads `pending demolition.' The bill for the demolirion is for $3,000. Ms. Osteraas went to City personnel, who said they never had a request from the tax forfeit office to save that building. The County claims they made a requsst on the telephone. The City blames the County and the County blames the City. Ms. Osteraas stated her letter says it was scheduled for demolition in June, but it was demolished in April. Guy Willits explained the legisiative hearing was on 3-16-99, and the City Council hearing was on 3-24-99. It would have been scheduled for demolition 18 days later, which would be April. Steve Magner reported Ramsey County was aware that the City Council passed a resolution to demolish the building. The County said they were going to sell it at auction, and they were told to take court action to stop the Ciry from demolishing the building, but they never did that. This was a deteriorating Quonset that had been broken into and vandalized over the yeazs. Residents were upset that the City had not taken action on this matter. Ms. Osteraas responded a neighbor did not want the kids having parties in there, but it could have been secured against that. Mr. Strathman stated ihe cost was $2,700 for demolition, which is the contractor fee and asked what is the $492.48. Mr. Votel responded the administrative fee for process service and title work. Roxanne Flink explained the property was pending demolition. Any taac forfeited assessment is paid by the City and not the County. State law says the City pays a11 assessments on tas forfeited properry. The City gets their money after the County takes their money out of handling the sale. The City is responsible for levied items and nothing eise. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment citing he cannot find any fault with what the City did. If Ramsey County made promises, the owner might have some acuon against them. qq - �s� LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 9-7-99 1790 Wordsworth Avenue (File J9905A) Page 4 Michele Cooper, owner, appeared and stated she has had major problems keeping up with her lawn since her car accident. She has not been working since last May. Last yeaz, there was a lazge tree limb in her yazd. She came home one day, the lawn was cleaned, and she recently got an assessment. The City had to undue her fence and there were tire ruts in her yard. Ms. Cooper is not contesqng that the work was done, but wonders if it really had to cost that much. Guy VJillits reported that orders were sent 5-17-99 to remove debris and cut tall grass with a comply date of 5-26-99. The work was done on 6-3-99. (A videotape was shown.) (A copy of the work order was shown to Mr. Strathman.) The bill reads 6 yazds (dumpster) for $108, 1'/z hours of grass for $210, and two hours for $420, stated Mr. Strathman. He asked what the 1'h hours is for. Mr. Votel answered the grass cutting rate is different than the rubbish removal rate. Ms. Cooper said it does not take 1'/z hours to cut the grass because her lawn is not big. Gerry Strathman recommended reducing by half the labor charge, making it $315 for labor, leaving the 6 yard disposal fee at $108, plus the $40 administrative fee, for a total assessment of $463. He stated he hopes the owner understands that it is better for her to take caze of the lawn than for the City to do it. 942 Carroll Avenue (File J9905A) Guy Willits reported two inspectors were at this properry, each with a different compliance date. In between the two compliance dates, the City went out and abated the properiy. Mr. Willits asked for it to be deleted. Gerty Strathman recommended deleting the assessment. 430-434 Case Avenue (File J9905A) No one appeazed. Gerry Strathman recommended approving the assessment. 599 Pavne Avenue (File J9905A) No one appeazed. Gerry Strathman recommended approving the assessment. 99-�s� LECsISLA1'IVE HEARING MINUTES OF 4-7-99 Page 5 Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 805 Agate Street. If the owner faiLs to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the buffding. Steve Magner reported this has been a vacant building since 9-22-98. It is listed as a 5tate of Minnesota t� exempt properiy. There have been eight siunmary abatement notices issued to remove refuse, cut grass, secure the building, and remove deteriorated retaining wall. The vacant building fees aze due. Real estate taYes are paid. The estimated market value is $43,800. The owner had a code compiiance inspection done on 4-15-98. The $2,000 bond was forfeited on 6- 15-99 because the owner had a yeaz to work on the property, and did not complete the ttecessary work. The estimated cost to repair is $25,000; to demolish, $7,000 to $8,000. (Photographs were shown to Gerry Strathman.) Mr. Strathman stated he is unclear about the ownership. Mr. Magner responded the property was purchased from the State of Minnesota taY exempt for a contract for deed. Joy Agbaza was listed as the owner, but has been removed. However, Code Enforcement recognizes Joy Agbaza as the owner of the properry. Joy Agbaza appeazed and stated she purchased the house in 1997. The payment was $1,70Q, and she thought that included the taxes. She paid the $1,700, but received a letter that she still owed $1,700. She talked to a Christine Kujala, who told her the $1,7001eft was the properry tax. Ms. Agbaza paid another $500 with some remaining to pay. She paid a man $8,006 to fix the house. He took the addition off of the house, but did not fix the house well. The City told her what was done in the sear of her house was not done correctly, and it had to be demolished. Ms. Agbaza applied for a loan io fix the house, and is now waiting for it to be approved. She received a letter that the city was taking the house. She told them she did not receive any other correspondence from them. They said they gave something to Ms. Agbara's daughter, and it is not their fault that her daughter did not inform her. Gerry Strathman asked is it vacant now. Ms. Agbara responded yes. Chris Kujala, Ramsey County Ta�t ForFeited Land Department, appeared and stated Ms. Agbara entered into a contract agreement with her office and purchased the property at an auction in 1997. There was installment and interest payments that accrues on the unpaid balance of the contract. Ms. Agbaza was prepazed to make the installxnent minus the interest. She has a delinquent tax amount. Ms. Kujala's department took steps to cancal the contract based on state law. Mr. Strathman asked how the process works to cancel the contract. Ms. Kujala responded her office gives three notices that the contract will be cancelied. From there, it is turned over to the County Attorney's Office. They have served Ms. Agbaza with the paperwork of the canceilation and the 60 day redemption period. The redemprion period has passed, and the contract has been cancelled, but the claun at this point is there was invalid service to Ms. Agbara. The owner's attorney and the Ramsey County attorney are in a litigation mode right now. aq-�s� LEGISLATIVE HEAR1AiG MINLTT`ES OF 9-7-99 Page 6 Does Ramsey County intend to intervene in the demolition, asked Mr. Strathman. Ms. Kujala responded yes because there is an auction on 10-28-99. Paperwork has been sent to change the records back to State of Minnesota. Mr. Strathman stated the photographs dated 5-19-99 show the yard full of refuse and asked has that been taken caze of. Ms. Kujala responded she only received norice that it needed to be boazded up. Ms. Agbara responded she boarded it and mowed the lawn last week. Mr. Magner responded Pazks and Recreation cleaned the yazd a number of times. The summary abatement notices have gone to the State of Minnesota and to Ms. Agbara. The properry is being maintained. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the November 2, 1999, Legislative Hearing. Mr. Magner added that he would like the building to be maintained and secured. He suggested the County advertise that the properry is a registered vacant building, and will require a code compliance inspection plus a$2,000 bond before permits aze issued to rehabilitate the property. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1087 Ross Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Steve Magner reported this has been vacant since 9-11-98. Six summary abatement notices have been issued to remove refuse, cut tall grass, secure the building, and remove snow from sidewalks. The vacant buiiding fees are due. The tases are unpaid. Tasation has placed a mazket value of $36,100 on this property. A code compliance inspection has not been agplied for and a bond has not been posted. The estimated cost to repair is $35,000; estimated cost to demolish, $6,000 to $7,000. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment citing no one is present to take responsibility for the building, and the estimated cost to repair the property is close to its estimated mazket value. The meeting was adjourned at i l:l l am. � 99 �� Interdepartmental Memorandum CITY OF SAINT PAUL To: Gerry Strathman Council Reseazch O�ce 310 Ciry Hall Guy Willits Division of Public Health 170 City Hall From: Roxanna Flink `�1`� Assessments Supervisor 140 City Hall Date: 7uly 29, 1999 Subject: Laid Over Summary Abatements File 79904B1 Boazding-up of vacant property at 600 - 7�' St. W. Attached is a copy of the above Assessment files laid over by Council on July 28, 1999 to August 4, 1999. There wlll not be a I.egislative Hearing. If you have any questions, please call me at 266-8859. RF:kr Attach. To Legislative Hearing Officer - July-�1999 Public Hearin Date - July 28, 1999 T.M.S.lREAL ESTATE DIVISION tac[ Person and Ph e' mber: II Roxana Flink ' D 266-8859 be on Councii A genda by: 7-7-9g be in Council Research Omce noon on Friday 7-2-99 DTAL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES l REQL3ESTED: AITORYEY �f — ..5� Green Sheet Number: 63735 DIRECiOR (OR ASSISTA\'n CODNCIL AIGT. SVC. DII2. RESEARCH ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNA Set date of public hearing and approve assmts for Summ Abate (property clean-up) during the last week of April & ail of May 1999 (J9904A), Boarding-up of vacant buildings during the month of April 1999 (J9904r,�) and Towing of Aband Vehicles during Nov or Dec 1998 or Jan or Feb 1999. (J9902� 3 biENDATIO? 1 S:APPROVE(A)ORREJ£CI'(R) ERSOKALSERVICEC0�7R1 ShIUSTANSWERiHEFOLLO\VL\C: PLAYNING CO�I�fISS10N A STAFF t. Has the person/firm ever worked under a contract for this department? YES \O CIVII. SERVICE COJIDIISSION A public Health . Has this person/firm ever been a City employee? YES NO CIB COMMIITEE rts whidh Council Objective Neighborhoods Esplain aif 1 ES answers on a separate sheet and attach. TI\G PROBLEIII, ISSUE, OPPORTUYITY (�Vho, �Vhat, When, �Vhere, �Vhy?): Property otivners or renters create a health hazard at various times throughout the City of Saint Paul when their property is not kept un. IFAPPROVED: Cost recovery programs to recover expenses for Summary Abatements, Boarding-up and Towing abandoned vehicles. This includes cutting tali grass and weeds, hauling away all garbage, debris, refuse and tires. Also, all household items such as refrigerators, stoves, sofas, chairs and all other items. In winter this includes the removal of snow and ice from sidewalk and cross walks. IF APPROVED: If Council does not approve these charges, General Fund would be required to pay the assessment. Assessments are payable over 1 year and coliected with the property taxes if not AGES IFNOTAPPROVED: Neighborhoods would be left to deteriorate and property values would decline. Nobody Fvould take care of their property, especially vacant or rental properties. 12odents, filth, garbage and trash would accamulate everywhere. Disease and pests could become a oroblem. �+�iouxr oFraa�sacr�o�: $34 �SZO.O9 COSl'lRE�'ENUE BUDGEl ED (CIRCLE ONE) YgS \O SOCBCE: ASS0SSri18IItS A Vacant Bidg Does this person/firm possess a skill not normally possessed by any YES TO ^_ curren[Cityemployee? RE-6-8-99 Date: 612/99 ACTS\1T1' �il�IBER: inA\CIAL INFORAIA'f10\: (E\PLAIY) 44 property owners will be notified of the public hearin� and REPORT Date: July 20, 1999 Time: 10:00 a.m. Place: Room 330 City Hall 15 West Kellogg Boulevazd LEGISLATIVE HEARING Gerry Strathman I,egislative Hearing Officer Summary Abatement Appeal for 915 Charles Avenue. (File J9903A1) (Laid over from 7-6-49) Gerry StraUunan reeommended reducing the assessment to $40 plus the $40 administration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $80. 2. Sunuuary Abatement Appeal for 941 Edmund Avenue. (File J9903B1) (Laid over &om 7-6-99) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 99- �s6 �'� Summary Abatements: File J9904A - Property Clean-Up during the last week of April and all of May 1999. File 39904B - Boazding-up of vacant buildings during April 1999. File J9902V - Towing of abandoned vetucles from private property during November and December 1998, January and February 1999. 762 Central Avenue West (File 39904A) Gerry Stratlunan recommended approval of the assessment. 408 Charles Avenue (File J9902V) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 56 Cook Avenue West (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 952 Euclid Street (File J99Q2V) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $160 plus $40 administration fees, which brings the assessment to a total of $200. 727 Marshall Avenue (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $110 plus $40 admitustration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $ I 50. 21Q6 Mazshall Avenue (File J4904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. �% �s`�' ��s�" LEGISLATIVE HEARII3G REPORT OF 7-20-99 906 Russell Street (File J9902� Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 613 Rose Avenue East (File 79904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 1020 Carroll Avenue (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 1068 Ielehart Avenue (File J9902� Gerty Strathman recommended deleting the assessment. Page 2 4. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 419 Sherbume Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the August 10 Legislative Hearing. 5. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1329 Van Buren Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the August 10 Legislative Hearing. rrn MINUTES OF TI� LEGISLATIVE HEARING Tuesday, July 20, 1999 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer The meeting was called to order at 10:00 a.m. 9� �s� �y. STAFF PRESENT: Sally Peterson, Code Enforcement; Chuck Votel, Code Enforcement; Guy Willits, Code Enforcement Summary Abatement Appeal for 915 Charles Avenue. (File J9903A1) (Laid over from 7-6-99) Guy Willits reported orders were mailed on Mazch 29, 1999, to remove gazbage, rubbish, furniture, appliances, scrap wood, household items, tires, eta The work was done by Pazks and Recreation on April 9 for a cost of $295. (A videotape was shown twice.) Bich Tran, owner, appeared and stated a lot of trash was on the lot, but she cleaned up much of it. Gerry Strathman stated ail he saw in the videotape was brush. The owner must have done extensive cleaning. Mr. Wiilits concurred. Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment from $295 to $40 plus the $40 administration fee, whlch brings the assessment to a total of $80. Summary Abatement Appeal For 941 Edmund Avenue. (File J9903B1) (Laid over from 7-6-99) Guy Willits reported this is an emergency boazding by request of the Fire Department. Tim DeRusha, owner, appeazed and stated he got a call in the moming that a house had exploded from natural gas. He feels the boazd up fee is excessive. (Mr. DeRusha was shown the bill.) Gerry Strathman explained the City has a standing contract with a boazding company. The reason it is cosUy is because the company has to respond immediately whenever the police or fire department calls them. The police and fire deparhnents cannot leave a building unsecured. Mr. Strathman agrees the fee is high, but it is what the City is being chazged for the kind of service the City has to have. It should be covered by the insurance company because it is related to the accident. Mr. DeRusha responded he did not know the amount to bill, and today's heazing 3s after the insurance company has settled. What was billed to the insurance company was the 99-�,� �fi�� LEGISLATTVE HEARING MINUT'ES OF 7-20-99 Page 2 commercial rate of $13.50. Tfris fee is $1,490, which is $210 an hour. He has no control over this tragedy, and Northern States Power (NSP) says they aze not taking any responsibility for it. Mr. Strathman asked how the contractors are selected. Chuck Votel responded these contracts aze put up on a competitive bid price and sent to a list of known contractors that aze registered with the City. The contractor has to be on call 24 hours a day and be prepared to do this work. They usuaily go with the lowest bidder, wtuch is what was done in this case. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. Summary Abatements: File J9904A - Property Clean-Up during the last week of April and all of May 1999. File J9904B - Boarding-up of vacant buildings during Apri11999. File J9902V - Tuwing of abandoned vehicles from private property during November and December 1998, January and February 1999. 762 Central Avenue West (File J9904A) Lany and Gwendolyn Fletcher, tenants, appeazed and stated they saw the cleanup. Guy Willits reported orders were mailed on May 7, 1999, to remove garbage. The work was done by Pazks and Recreation on May 20 for a fee of $220.50. (A videotape was shown.) He is puzzled that orders were sent on May 7, discussed with the Fletchers on May 13, and it was still there on May 20, stated Mr. Strathman. Ms. Fletcher responded it was discussed with the owners and not them. It was inside the yazd, stated Mr. Fletcher. Mr. Strathman explained trash cannot be stored outside in Saint Paul. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment citing the notice was given and the work was done. The assessment will be to the property owner. 408 Charles Avenue (File J4402V) No one appeazed representing the property. Gerry Suathman zecommended approval of the assessment. LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 56 Cook Avenue West (File J9904A) No one appeazed representing the property. Gerry Strathman recotnmende� approval of the assessment. 952 Euclid Street (File 39902V) Daniel Feess, owner, appeazed. y'9- �s-� � Page 3 Guy Willits reported orders were posted on October 21, 1998, and mailed on October 22 to remove an abandoned vetucle with no license plates, hood, nor engine. The vehicle was removed on November 17 for a total of $570.90. It was auctioned for $60, which has been subtracted from the assessment fee. (Photographs were presented and later returned.) Gerry Strathman asked for a breakdown of the cost. Mr. Willits responded he did not have that information. Chuck Votel added that the impound lot sends notice to the owner and lien holders. Mr. Feess stated his tenant lives downstairs. He kept telling his tenant to remove the vehicle. When the vehicle was gone, Mr. Feess assumed the tenant temoved it. The vehicle has nothing to do with Mr. Feess. If it is on your property, then you aze responsibie for it, stated Mr. Strathman. Mr. Feess responded he has to get along with his tenant. Mr. Strathman asked for an estimate of how much is the storage. Mr. Willits responded the majority is storage. Mr. Votel responded a routine tow is about $125. The properry has a history of notices, stated Mr. Willits. Mr. Feess responded renters leave things outside and don't clean up after themselves. He tries to stay on top of it, but his job requires him to be out of town three monttts at a time. Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment from $570.90 to $160 plus $40 administration fees, which brings the assessment to a total of $200. 727 Marshall Avenue (File J9904A) Guy Willits reported orders were mailed on April 13 and 20, 1999, to remove wood/brush, fence, and litter. Pazks and Recreation did the work on May 5 for $550. This is a vacant lot. (A videotape was shown. A worker says on the videotape that a fence was not seen.) Rosita Meehan and Kathleen Kieser, 1227 Seventh Street West, appeazed and said they had just cut down their tree plus the neighbor's tree. They took all the heavy stuff away. It was _��s_S�� LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 Page 4 scheduled for someone to chip the pile. They missed seeing the Code Enforcement notice in their pile of mail. When the brush was gone, they assumed the company had taken it away. He is amazed at the cost of $550, stated Gerry Strathman. Mr. Willits responded he did not see on the videotape any of the items, except for the brush. The assessment does seem high. Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment &om $550 to $110 plus $40 administration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $150. The notice was sent as required; however, the chazge does seem excessive in view of the work that was done. 2106 Mazshall Avenue (File J9904A) Sam Czaplewski, fee owner, appeazed and stated his son lives at this properiy. Guy Willits reported orders were mailed on April 8, 1999, to remove a refrigerator, mamesses, couches, chair, bags of gazbage, branches, old fencing, litter, beer bottles, and cans. Parks and Recreation did the work on April 23 for a total of $293. (A videotape was shown.) Mr. Czaplewski stated the videotape is a lie because the workers did not clean up anything except for the refrigerator. He has already been to court on this, and the judge dismissed the case. (The videotape was shown again.) The refrigerator was moved out while the kitchen floor was being replaced, stated Mr. Czaplewski. He is going to have to hire an attorney for this. He would like $1,200 returned to him for the refrigerator and gate. Everything was cleaned up. Gerry Strathman asked about the sofa and the catpeting. Mr. Czaplewski responded it was cleaned up. Mr. Strathman stated they took videotape that shows carpet present and then took more videotape that shows the carpet gone. Some of the videotape was taken after his tenants removed the items, stated Mr. Czaplewski. Mr. Strathman stated he does not believe the refrigerator was outside for two weeks while the floor was being repaired, nor does he believe the tenants cleaned up the couch or the cazpet. The videotape is taken when they arrive and when they leave. Mr. Czaplewski responded his tenants aze lying to him then. Mr. Czaplewski requested an extension of time for his attorney to handle this issue. To appeal his decision, Mr. Strathman explained, a norice needs to be sent to him by noon on Thursday. Gezry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment because he does not find Mr. Czaplewski's story credible. (Note: Mr. Czaplewski handed in a written statement before leaving the meeting.) � _��-.�; LEGISLATTVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 906 Russell Street (File J9902V) No one appeared representing the property. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 613 Rose Avenue East (File J9904A) No one appeared representing the property. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 1020 Cartoll Avenue (File J9904A) Gloria Favis, owner, appeazed. Page 5 Guy Willits reported the notice was mailed on May 10, 1999, to removed refuse and fumiture. Pazks and Recreation did the work on May 18 for $295. (A videotape was shown.) Ms. Favis stated the tenant is responsibie for this. There were three people living there, and then there were about 15 people in the house. Since October 1998, Ms. Favis had been telling the tenants to move. The tenants say they would be homeless. Ms. Favis has asked for assistance from crime services to heip the tenants. Crime services suggested she raise the rent. The tenants rely on sociai security. If Ms. Favis filed for eviction in court, she would get nothing. The tenants have no deposit. She has already spent $1,200 fi�ng the inside because the tenants clogged the toilet and there were problems with the ceiling. Ms. Favis told the tenants to leave because she is in trouble with Code Enforcement and they trashed the piace. She will not file chazges against them. She is already paying too much in tases. Gerry Strathman asked when did the tenants move out. Ms. Favis responded May 3. They threw a(I the garbage outside. The carpet has to be replaced. The property has to be painted. She is thinking about foreclosing on the property. Why wasn't it cleaned up when the notice was received, asked Mr. Strathman. Ms. Favis responded she wrote a letter to the Yenant to remove the garbage. They promised they woald do it. (Mr. Willits presented photographs to Mr. Strathman. They were later retumed.) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. A lot of trash was removed. The owner is responsible. LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 1068 Ialehart Avenue (File J9902V) Gerry Stratiunan recommended deleting the assessment per Guy Willits. � �s� Page 6 1Zesolution ordering the owner fo remove or repair fhe property at 419 Sherburne Avenue. If the owner fails fo comply wifh the resolution, Code Enforcemenf is ordered fo remove the building. Chuck Votet reported this building has been condemned since March 1998 and has been vacant since that time. Tracy and Chrisfine Sy�vis are the recorded owners. The vacant building fees aze due. Real estaYe t�es aze due in the amount of $3,078.02. The estimated market value is $46,800; estimatad cost to repair, $20,000; cost to demolish, $10,000 to $11,000. All interested parYies have been notified. A. Vue appeared on behalf of his brother Bee Vue, who has a contract for deed on this properiy. Bee Vue wrote a]etter conceming what he intends to do wiYh the property. (A. Vue handed Mr. Strathman a letter from $ee Vue.) The letter says the Perkowitzs aze the first mortgage holders, said Mr. Strathman. Mr Vote] responded they are the fee owners. (A. Vue handed Mr. Strathman a paper entitled Assignment of Mortgage.) Mr. Strathman asked how much time Bee Vue needs to get control of this property. A. Vue responded two weeks. It appears to be secured, said Mr. Strathman. Mr. Votel concurred. Mr. Votel added that in June the City issued two summary abatement notices to clean the yard and cut the grass. Mr. Strathman stated it is in Bee Vue's best interest to take care of the yard. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the August 10 Legislative Heazing. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1329 Van Buren Avenue. If t6e owner faits to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove fhe building. Chuck Votel reported this building has been vacant since August 1998. The owner is Stewart Flowers. The Ciry has issued three sutumary abatement notices to cut the grass and secure the property. Vacant building fees are due. The estimated mazket value is $16,500; estimated cost to repair, $45,000, estimated cost to demolish, $6,000 to $7,000. LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 �' �'- �'s-� Page 7 Dave Alstead, Hamline Midway Area Rehabilitation Cooperation (H-MARC), appeared and stated the house does need to come down. H-MARC is interested in talking with the owners about purchasing the properry with the intent to teaz the house down and build a new one. Jati ne Straue and Dayne Albrecht appeared. Mr. Albrecht staYed the property belongs to his wife's �other who is not able to deal with this properly. There is a program called selective c'.c:: ance, «�hich they applied for last yeaz. This issue has not gone anywhere. Ms. Albrecht stated the house does not wazrazit repair. Mr. Strathman stated it would be his inclination to recommend remove oz repair. The cost of that demolition would be assessed against the properry. An option is to deal with H-MARC, which wants to buy the building. Sally Peterson reported that a yeaz ago the Albrechts applied for selective cleazance. The application was missing certain information such as the address and date. Now, a new application is being done. Ms. Albrecht responded she has not received a new application. Mr. Strathman staTed he would like to see a city siaff person work wiYh the Albrechts aztd bring them to PED. In the meantime, the Albrechts may want to talk with H-MARC. He may have to deal with power of attorney, and he is not awaze of what it takes to achieve, stated Mr. Albrecht. Mr. Votel stated there aze no any immediate issues with this properry. C�erry Strathman recommended laying over to the August IO Legislative Hearing to give the Albrechts additional time to deal with this properry. Hopefully, there wili be a plan worked out by the». T)�e meetino was adjoumed at 11:33 a.m. I711 City of St_ Pau1 RESOLII2IO23 RATIF"YING ASSESSMEf7T �me.�e� - S�p�-. � :t,\�t`�,� � � � Voting Ward In the matter of the assessment of benefits, cast and e�cpenses for 2 39904B1 (9840) Boarding-up oE 600 - 7 St. W. during the month of April 1999_ � Mre.v�ri.>�' • J�-�. � 4 0 . COUNCIL FILE NO_ 1 6" � S� By File No. SEE BELOW Assessment No. SEE BELOW �S. � � LAID OVER BY COUNCIL ON 7-28-99 TO 8-4-99 ��' r TBERE WILL BE NO LEGISI,ATIVE IiEARING ��; A public hearing having been had upon the assessment for the above improvement, and said assessment having been further considered by the Council, and having been considered finally satisfactory, there£ore, be it RESOLVED, That the said assessment be and the same is hereby in all respects ratified. RESOLVED FURTHER, That the said assessment be and it is hereby determined to be payable in One equal installments. COUNCILPERSON Yeas Nays nanav �akey �ostrom ✓Coleman ✓-�Iarris ntry eiter � In Favor sg_Agains t Adopted by the Council: Date J�l�.� . b -�,�� .� Certified Passes by Council Secretary � ti � a a n a � � E 0 W rn � E � � � Q J � � v � 0 � � / � �/ U ( (� h Cj�j a a a . o � w ad � � H a � z H � � W x H z � w O � a � H U a � � � rn m N � 0 c 0 � ri �o Q iM � Q i � H i O � � N i rn 'n E C •• � a i i ^' w�m \� O�N � a�m a � <v � � � � 0 �,d oo �� ao�� N r1 ➢ � 1 �� 11 1 �� ' x n � � �y t ii U � F II ; �� W II 1 i/l 1 O00 H�000 H 1 O O O � I O O O i . . • �o.�s a i � O�N E� U � � � W i W�000 E�000 r.0 o00 w � . i N � � H � c� �-+ H i � 1 t i i i i i � ; 1 1 1 � � I I 1 1 i i � w � cv � � � ' ��] x � � w c� � z �zww � OiQH� i ��Q� � w � m rC cn � 1 � x o i E tio �i i no�� i � H i W � U1 � i ONrn i , o �, w � � E+ � E a�3� � P, � o v�iwqw � H i H z W � ck � E E fa FC o [-+ � m�A �a�aF� z � W i q W W N ri i Q i FC in ti W i 7� i u]]u x� i N a' � 3ao�2w �. �� W i O E P. ai i w i.7 E W W W W m � O i�n2 h 0000 + N � R�i I ~ /rHll� fii �'i � a s r-i FC �[�+ H E+ o�� mmmw�wa m � � i i � m i i m i � M � U] N rl i 1 O 61 r 1 � w' � ��a o i r � c7a� •. � a � r i FC � a0£�m i E iwqOE� i w' � mbF.rV` � o��xW ' w i o o q i � �ow�oz � 3��orn� � O� Gl o.7 # x i 0 0 o u o 0 0 o I I o . i� . o �n �n n o ifl N rl II T N +/++? 11 N �? 11 vx n n II il u n n n n I II n u n � II a n P n c9 w � ii H II� q CGH�iio O� W 1 i F �� ii U aaanw �Ca�Cnh E+E+E n O 000 n fk E+EH Ila m w U � a E a W k w 0 � a U � a `i �iq -��G To T.egislative Hearing Officer - No I.egislative Hearing Public HearinQ Date - 8-4-99 T.M.S./REAL ESTATE DIVISION ;ontaM Person and Pho Roatana Flink �. 266-8859 �� ne aa co,��a ng�aa ny: Public hearing is set or 8-4-99. Rust be in Council Research �ce Date: . e..a RE-7-30-99 � q.R -'�SG 7/29/99 Green Sheet Nwnber: 09496 i� �EPARTMENTDIRECfOR ITYCOUNCII, ATTORNEY DIILECIOR CLERS & MGT. SVG DIIL 1 ICOUNCII. RESEARCH AL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES 1 (CLIP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATURE) ION REQUESTED: At Council's request on 7-28-99 to 8-4-99, Boarding-up of vacant bldg for property at 600 - 7`n St. W. during the month of April 1999, J9904B1 was laid over for further discussion. PLANNA'G COilRhI15SION CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION CIB COHM1TfEE ns whidh Councit Objective Neighborhoods A STAFF . Has We person/firm ever worked under a contract for t6is depar�ent? YES NO A Public Health . Has fLis person/firm ever been a City employee? YES NO A Vanm Bldg ' D°es llus pers°dfirm possess a s]dll not aormally possessed by any YES NO __ current City employee. Ezplain ail YES aaswers oa a separate sheet and attach. VG PROBLEM, ISSUE, OPPORTONTTY (4Vho, What, When, Where, Why?): "SEE ORIGINAL GREEN SFIEET NUMBER 63735" IFAPPROVED: IF AYPROVED: IF NOT APYROVED: �L AMOUNT OF TRANSACTION: �2fO.00 COST/REVENUE BUDGETED (CIRCLE ONE) �ING SOURCE: ASSCSSITICRYS OIlIy' ACTIVITYNUMBER: KCIAL INFORMATIO�': (EXPLAiIh 1 propertv owners wili be notified of the nublic hearins and charaes. YES NO City of St. Paul Real Estate Division Dept, of Techaology & Managemeat Serv REPORT OF COMPLETION OF ASSESSMENT COUNCIL FILE NO. /�� ` File No. SEE BELOW Assessment No_ SEE BELOW Voting Ward In the matter of the assessment of benefits, cost and expenses for 2 J9904B1 (9840) Boarding-up of 600 - 7"' St. W. during the month of April 1999. LAID OVER BY COUDICIL ON 7-28-44 TO 8-4-49 TEiERE WILL SE NO LEGISLATIVE HEARING To the Council of the City of St. Paul q�--t5� The Valuation and Assessment Engineer hereby reports to the Council the following as a statement of the e�enditures necessarily incurred for and in connection with the making of the above improvement, viz: Total construction costs $�`s0 0� FL �-�-C3 c'l Valuation and Assessment Services $ Administration Charge - Public Aealth $ 25.00 Re-Check Charge - Public Health $ Abatement Service Charge $ 15.00 TOTAL E%PENDITURES $�'Bd �� °2 �° �� Charge To $ /� Net Assessment $298�6fr� dy" � ��', � � Said Valuation and Assessment Engineer further reports that he has assessed and levied the total amount as above ascertained, to-wit: the sum of $290.00 upon each and every lot, part or parcel of land deemed benefited by the said improvement, and in the case of each lot, part or parcel of land in accordance with the benefits conferred thereon; that the said assessment has been completed, and that hereto attached, identified by the signature of the said Valuation and Assessment Engineer, and made a part hereof, is the said assessment as completed by him, and which is herewith submitted to the Council for such action t,,.hereon as may be considered proper. // �„ „ Dated 7 � c�-9- 9 �1 and Assessment Engineer �q _ �s� �� •�� Date: September 7, 1999 Time: 10:00 a.m. Piace: Room 330 City Hall 15 Wesi Kellogg Boulevard LEGISLATIVE HEARING Gerry Strathman Legislarive Hearing Officer 1. Summary Abatement: Boarding up of vacant building at 600 Seventh Street West, Jessica Martin. (J9904B) (Per City Council meeting of 8/4/99) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $85 plus the $40 administrative fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $125. 2. Summary Abatements: File J9905A Property clean-up and/or grass cutting during June 1994 File J9905C Demolifion of vacant buildings during June 1999 File J9903V Towing of abandoned vehicles from private property during March 1999 File J9905B Boarding up of vacant building during May 1999 File SSA9901 Sanitary sewer service repairs 986 Colne Street (File SSA9901) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $3,566 plus the $40 administrative fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $3,606. 995 Kennazd Street (File J9905C) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 1790 Wordsworth Avenue (File J9905A) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the labor chazge by half, making it $315 for labor, leaving the 6 yazd disposal fee at $108, pius the $40 administrative fee, for a totai assessment of $463. 942 Carroll Avenue (File J9905A) Gerry Strathman recommended deleting the assessment. 430-�34 Case Avenue (File 79905A) Gerry Strathman recommended approving the assessment. 599 Pavne Avenue (File J99QSA) Gerry Strathman recommended approving the assessment. c�q.7S� LEGISLATIVE AEARING REPORT OF 9-7-99 Page 2 3. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 805 Agate Street. If the owner faiLs to comply with the resolufion, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the November 2, 1999, Legisiarive Hearing. 4. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1087 Ross Avenue. If the owner fails to compiy with the resolufion, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended approval. rrn c�q.�S6 NIINUTES OF THE LEGISLATIVE HEA.RING Tuesday, September 7,1999 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer STAFF PRESENT: Roxanne Flink, Real Estate; Bobbi Levitan, Housing Information Office (HIO); Steve Magner, Code Enforcemem; Chuck Votel, Code Enforcement; Guy VJillits, Code Enforcement The meeting was called to order at 10:00 am. Summary Abatement: Boarding up of vacant building at 600 Seventh Street West, Jessica Martin. (J9904B) (Per City Council meeting of 8!4l99) Jessica Martin stated she received an assessment for boazding up a vacant building; however, the building was not vacant. There was a burglary in April, the burglars came in the back screen, and lifted the metal grate. The police were called. The company that boarded up the properry put four screws in the screen. Since then, the azea is blocked in with concrete blocks, and that only cost $450. Ms. Martin questions the charge just to install screws, and why the building owners were not contacted. (Ms. Martin showed a photograph to Gerry Strathman.) Guy Willits reported this was an emergency boarding. The Fire Department called for the emergency contractor, and this is what the contractor charged. The assessment is for one trip plus securing the property. (Mr. Willits presented paperwork.) Mr. Strathman explained when the police or fue aze called to an emergency situation, they are not allowed to leave the property unsecured. The City has a contractor that will come when called, and secure the properry so the police and fire personnel can leave. The terms of the agreement is that the contractor will be paid $200 per trip. Once the company is at the property, there is an addifional fee for securing the properry. Mr. Strathman stated these are usually not contested because they are covered by insurance. Ms. Martin responded this is the second burglary and the insurance company is not paying anymore. Gerry Strathman recommended the assessment be reduced to $85 plus the $40 administrative fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $125. Summary Abatements: File J9905A Property clean-up andlor grass cutting during June 1999 File J9905C Demolition of vacant buildings during June 1999 File J9903V Towing of abandoned vehicles from private property during March 1999 File J9905B Boarding up of vacant buiiding during May 1999 File SSA9901 Sanitary sewer service repairs � LECsISLA'ITVE HEARING MINUTES OF 9-7-99 986 Colne Street (File SSA9901) Page 2 Jody Thraen, owner, appeared and stated she purchased her home in May 1997. In Augus� she discovered she had a rat problem. She had numerous exterminators come to her house to give her suggestions to clear up this problem. She spent hundreds of dollazs trying to get rid of the rats. She called several City offices for help, and they told her to call an esterminator. One ea�terminator told her there was a break in the sewer line and to call Public VJorks. Public Works gave her the name and number of a person who videotapes sewers. This man videotaped her sewer line and discovered a break in it. Ms. Thraen had that section replaced. However, rats still came into her home. Ms. Thraen cailed her City council member who got her in touch with Chuck Votel. He came out with a sewer contractor, who observed there were rats in the house. They found there were multiple breaks in the sewer line. The contractor suggested the entire sewer pipe be replaced from the main a11 the way to the street, and they estimated it would cost between $3,000 to $4,000. Ms. Thraen agreed to pay that cost. Later, they realized it would go beyond that price. She had no chance to get second bids. Gerry Strathman asked was she told what was happening. Mr. Thraen responded the sewer pipe was further below ground than anticipated. There was a tree in the front yazd which prevented them from getting into the street, the sidewalk had to be dug up. Ms. Thraen wanted to put a halt on the whole thing because she could not afford it. She was told to finish the project and worry about paying for it later. It ended up being three times more than it was quoted. Since then, there is no rat problem. If this assessment is put on her tases she will not be able to live there. Bobbi Levitan, Ramsey County Mortgage Foreclosure Prevention Program, appeazed and stated she worked with Ms. Thraen, who was refened by the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency. Ms. Thraen did everything she was told by professionals, City personnel, contractors, and externunators. Ms. Levitan was able to secure money for Ms. Thraen to get the camera test done. It was later found that the camera test was not done correctly. It should have been done all the way to the main sewer, but it was videotaped to the first break and stopped, Chuck Votel reported the conuactor estimated the project to be about $3,000. It was Code EnforcemenYs decision that the entire line needed to be replaced. There was convincing evidence that rats were not just entering the basement, but also escaping into the neighborhood. Despite Ms. Thraen's direction that she couid not afford the fee, it was Mr. Votel's decision to complete the repair so it would not be a problem for the neighborhood. The cost went way over what was estimated. It included restoring the retaining wall, sidewalk, and some other things. The original estimate was $3,000, asked Mr. Strathman. Ms. Thraen responded $3,600 has been paid. Mr. Strathman recommended raducing the assessment to $3,566 plus the $40 service charge, which brings the assessment t4 a total of $3,606. The City policy is cleaz on this issue: property owners are responsible for the sewer line on their property. In view of the fact that Ms. Thraen operated in accordance with the advice given by City officials, and given Mr. Votel's q LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 9-7-99 Page 3 determination that this was a public safety issue, ffiese two things can be taken into consideration in mitigating this case. 995 Kennard Street (File J9905C) Jean Osteraas, owner, appeazed and stated she purchased this house at the t� forfeit auction in April. 'There was a small Quonset (taut) on that property. She said she would like to keep that structure, and would clean it out. She planned to build a small manufacturing plant and to use the Quonset to store materials. (Ms. Osteraas showed picture of her plans to Mr. Strathman.) Ms. Osteraas was told by someone from the tas forfeit office that they would see what they could do with the city regazding demolition of the Quonset. Ms. Osteraas was told that if the Counry was not successful and there was demolition, that would be announced at the day of the auction. She went to the o�ce one morning, and there was no mention that the Quonset was demolished the previous day. All the paperwork reads `pending demolition.' The bill for the demolirion is for $3,000. Ms. Osteraas went to City personnel, who said they never had a request from the tax forfeit office to save that building. The County claims they made a requsst on the telephone. The City blames the County and the County blames the City. Ms. Osteraas stated her letter says it was scheduled for demolition in June, but it was demolished in April. Guy Willits explained the legisiative hearing was on 3-16-99, and the City Council hearing was on 3-24-99. It would have been scheduled for demolition 18 days later, which would be April. Steve Magner reported Ramsey County was aware that the City Council passed a resolution to demolish the building. The County said they were going to sell it at auction, and they were told to take court action to stop the Ciry from demolishing the building, but they never did that. This was a deteriorating Quonset that had been broken into and vandalized over the yeazs. Residents were upset that the City had not taken action on this matter. Ms. Osteraas responded a neighbor did not want the kids having parties in there, but it could have been secured against that. Mr. Strathman stated ihe cost was $2,700 for demolition, which is the contractor fee and asked what is the $492.48. Mr. Votel responded the administrative fee for process service and title work. Roxanne Flink explained the property was pending demolition. Any taac forfeited assessment is paid by the City and not the County. State law says the City pays a11 assessments on tas forfeited properry. The City gets their money after the County takes their money out of handling the sale. The City is responsible for levied items and nothing eise. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment citing he cannot find any fault with what the City did. If Ramsey County made promises, the owner might have some acuon against them. qq - �s� LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 9-7-99 1790 Wordsworth Avenue (File J9905A) Page 4 Michele Cooper, owner, appeared and stated she has had major problems keeping up with her lawn since her car accident. She has not been working since last May. Last yeaz, there was a lazge tree limb in her yazd. She came home one day, the lawn was cleaned, and she recently got an assessment. The City had to undue her fence and there were tire ruts in her yard. Ms. Cooper is not contesqng that the work was done, but wonders if it really had to cost that much. Guy VJillits reported that orders were sent 5-17-99 to remove debris and cut tall grass with a comply date of 5-26-99. The work was done on 6-3-99. (A videotape was shown.) (A copy of the work order was shown to Mr. Strathman.) The bill reads 6 yazds (dumpster) for $108, 1'/z hours of grass for $210, and two hours for $420, stated Mr. Strathman. He asked what the 1'h hours is for. Mr. Votel answered the grass cutting rate is different than the rubbish removal rate. Ms. Cooper said it does not take 1'/z hours to cut the grass because her lawn is not big. Gerry Strathman recommended reducing by half the labor charge, making it $315 for labor, leaving the 6 yard disposal fee at $108, plus the $40 administrative fee, for a total assessment of $463. He stated he hopes the owner understands that it is better for her to take caze of the lawn than for the City to do it. 942 Carroll Avenue (File J9905A) Guy Willits reported two inspectors were at this properry, each with a different compliance date. In between the two compliance dates, the City went out and abated the properiy. Mr. Willits asked for it to be deleted. Gerty Strathman recommended deleting the assessment. 430-434 Case Avenue (File J9905A) No one appeazed. Gerry Strathman recommended approving the assessment. 599 Pavne Avenue (File J9905A) No one appeazed. Gerry Strathman recommended approving the assessment. 99-�s� LECsISLA1'IVE HEARING MINUTES OF 4-7-99 Page 5 Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 805 Agate Street. If the owner faiLs to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the buffding. Steve Magner reported this has been a vacant building since 9-22-98. It is listed as a 5tate of Minnesota t� exempt properiy. There have been eight siunmary abatement notices issued to remove refuse, cut grass, secure the building, and remove deteriorated retaining wall. The vacant building fees aze due. Real estate taYes are paid. The estimated market value is $43,800. The owner had a code compiiance inspection done on 4-15-98. The $2,000 bond was forfeited on 6- 15-99 because the owner had a yeaz to work on the property, and did not complete the ttecessary work. The estimated cost to repair is $25,000; to demolish, $7,000 to $8,000. (Photographs were shown to Gerry Strathman.) Mr. Strathman stated he is unclear about the ownership. Mr. Magner responded the property was purchased from the State of Minnesota taY exempt for a contract for deed. Joy Agbaza was listed as the owner, but has been removed. However, Code Enforcement recognizes Joy Agbaza as the owner of the properry. Joy Agbaza appeazed and stated she purchased the house in 1997. The payment was $1,70Q, and she thought that included the taxes. She paid the $1,700, but received a letter that she still owed $1,700. She talked to a Christine Kujala, who told her the $1,7001eft was the properry tax. Ms. Agbaza paid another $500 with some remaining to pay. She paid a man $8,006 to fix the house. He took the addition off of the house, but did not fix the house well. The City told her what was done in the sear of her house was not done correctly, and it had to be demolished. Ms. Agbaza applied for a loan io fix the house, and is now waiting for it to be approved. She received a letter that the city was taking the house. She told them she did not receive any other correspondence from them. They said they gave something to Ms. Agbara's daughter, and it is not their fault that her daughter did not inform her. Gerry Strathman asked is it vacant now. Ms. Agbara responded yes. Chris Kujala, Ramsey County Ta�t ForFeited Land Department, appeared and stated Ms. Agbara entered into a contract agreement with her office and purchased the property at an auction in 1997. There was installment and interest payments that accrues on the unpaid balance of the contract. Ms. Agbaza was prepazed to make the installxnent minus the interest. She has a delinquent tax amount. Ms. Kujala's department took steps to cancal the contract based on state law. Mr. Strathman asked how the process works to cancel the contract. Ms. Kujala responded her office gives three notices that the contract will be cancelied. From there, it is turned over to the County Attorney's Office. They have served Ms. Agbaza with the paperwork of the canceilation and the 60 day redemption period. The redemprion period has passed, and the contract has been cancelled, but the claun at this point is there was invalid service to Ms. Agbara. The owner's attorney and the Ramsey County attorney are in a litigation mode right now. aq-�s� LEGISLATIVE HEAR1AiG MINLTT`ES OF 9-7-99 Page 6 Does Ramsey County intend to intervene in the demolition, asked Mr. Strathman. Ms. Kujala responded yes because there is an auction on 10-28-99. Paperwork has been sent to change the records back to State of Minnesota. Mr. Strathman stated the photographs dated 5-19-99 show the yard full of refuse and asked has that been taken caze of. Ms. Kujala responded she only received norice that it needed to be boazded up. Ms. Agbara responded she boarded it and mowed the lawn last week. Mr. Magner responded Pazks and Recreation cleaned the yazd a number of times. The summary abatement notices have gone to the State of Minnesota and to Ms. Agbara. The properry is being maintained. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the November 2, 1999, Legislative Hearing. Mr. Magner added that he would like the building to be maintained and secured. He suggested the County advertise that the properry is a registered vacant building, and will require a code compliance inspection plus a$2,000 bond before permits aze issued to rehabilitate the property. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1087 Ross Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Steve Magner reported this has been vacant since 9-11-98. Six summary abatement notices have been issued to remove refuse, cut tall grass, secure the building, and remove snow from sidewalks. The vacant buiiding fees are due. The tases are unpaid. Tasation has placed a mazket value of $36,100 on this property. A code compliance inspection has not been agplied for and a bond has not been posted. The estimated cost to repair is $35,000; estimated cost to demolish, $6,000 to $7,000. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment citing no one is present to take responsibility for the building, and the estimated cost to repair the property is close to its estimated mazket value. The meeting was adjourned at i l:l l am. � 99 �� Interdepartmental Memorandum CITY OF SAINT PAUL To: Gerry Strathman Council Reseazch O�ce 310 Ciry Hall Guy Willits Division of Public Health 170 City Hall From: Roxanna Flink `�1`� Assessments Supervisor 140 City Hall Date: 7uly 29, 1999 Subject: Laid Over Summary Abatements File 79904B1 Boazding-up of vacant property at 600 - 7�' St. W. Attached is a copy of the above Assessment files laid over by Council on July 28, 1999 to August 4, 1999. There wlll not be a I.egislative Hearing. If you have any questions, please call me at 266-8859. RF:kr Attach. To Legislative Hearing Officer - July-�1999 Public Hearin Date - July 28, 1999 T.M.S.lREAL ESTATE DIVISION tac[ Person and Ph e' mber: II Roxana Flink ' D 266-8859 be on Councii A genda by: 7-7-9g be in Council Research Omce noon on Friday 7-2-99 DTAL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES l REQL3ESTED: AITORYEY �f — ..5� Green Sheet Number: 63735 DIRECiOR (OR ASSISTA\'n CODNCIL AIGT. SVC. DII2. RESEARCH ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNA Set date of public hearing and approve assmts for Summ Abate (property clean-up) during the last week of April & ail of May 1999 (J9904A), Boarding-up of vacant buildings during the month of April 1999 (J9904r,�) and Towing of Aband Vehicles during Nov or Dec 1998 or Jan or Feb 1999. (J9902� 3 biENDATIO? 1 S:APPROVE(A)ORREJ£CI'(R) ERSOKALSERVICEC0�7R1 ShIUSTANSWERiHEFOLLO\VL\C: PLAYNING CO�I�fISS10N A STAFF t. Has the person/firm ever worked under a contract for this department? YES \O CIVII. SERVICE COJIDIISSION A public Health . Has this person/firm ever been a City employee? YES NO CIB COMMIITEE rts whidh Council Objective Neighborhoods Esplain aif 1 ES answers on a separate sheet and attach. TI\G PROBLEIII, ISSUE, OPPORTUYITY (�Vho, �Vhat, When, �Vhere, �Vhy?): Property otivners or renters create a health hazard at various times throughout the City of Saint Paul when their property is not kept un. IFAPPROVED: Cost recovery programs to recover expenses for Summary Abatements, Boarding-up and Towing abandoned vehicles. This includes cutting tali grass and weeds, hauling away all garbage, debris, refuse and tires. Also, all household items such as refrigerators, stoves, sofas, chairs and all other items. In winter this includes the removal of snow and ice from sidewalk and cross walks. IF APPROVED: If Council does not approve these charges, General Fund would be required to pay the assessment. Assessments are payable over 1 year and coliected with the property taxes if not AGES IFNOTAPPROVED: Neighborhoods would be left to deteriorate and property values would decline. Nobody Fvould take care of their property, especially vacant or rental properties. 12odents, filth, garbage and trash would accamulate everywhere. Disease and pests could become a oroblem. �+�iouxr oFraa�sacr�o�: $34 �SZO.O9 COSl'lRE�'ENUE BUDGEl ED (CIRCLE ONE) YgS \O SOCBCE: ASS0SSri18IItS A Vacant Bidg Does this person/firm possess a skill not normally possessed by any YES TO ^_ curren[Cityemployee? RE-6-8-99 Date: 612/99 ACTS\1T1' �il�IBER: inA\CIAL INFORAIA'f10\: (E\PLAIY) 44 property owners will be notified of the public hearin� and REPORT Date: July 20, 1999 Time: 10:00 a.m. Place: Room 330 City Hall 15 West Kellogg Boulevazd LEGISLATIVE HEARING Gerry Strathman I,egislative Hearing Officer Summary Abatement Appeal for 915 Charles Avenue. (File J9903A1) (Laid over from 7-6-49) Gerry StraUunan reeommended reducing the assessment to $40 plus the $40 administration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $80. 2. Sunuuary Abatement Appeal for 941 Edmund Avenue. (File J9903B1) (Laid over &om 7-6-99) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 99- �s6 �'� Summary Abatements: File J9904A - Property Clean-Up during the last week of April and all of May 1999. File 39904B - Boazding-up of vacant buildings during April 1999. File J9902V - Towing of abandoned vetucles from private property during November and December 1998, January and February 1999. 762 Central Avenue West (File 39904A) Gerry Stratlunan recommended approval of the assessment. 408 Charles Avenue (File J9902V) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 56 Cook Avenue West (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 952 Euclid Street (File J99Q2V) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $160 plus $40 administration fees, which brings the assessment to a total of $200. 727 Marshall Avenue (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $110 plus $40 admitustration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $ I 50. 21Q6 Mazshall Avenue (File J4904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. �% �s`�' ��s�" LEGISLATIVE HEARII3G REPORT OF 7-20-99 906 Russell Street (File J9902� Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 613 Rose Avenue East (File 79904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 1020 Carroll Avenue (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 1068 Ielehart Avenue (File J9902� Gerty Strathman recommended deleting the assessment. Page 2 4. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 419 Sherbume Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the August 10 Legislative Hearing. 5. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1329 Van Buren Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the August 10 Legislative Hearing. rrn MINUTES OF TI� LEGISLATIVE HEARING Tuesday, July 20, 1999 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer The meeting was called to order at 10:00 a.m. 9� �s� �y. STAFF PRESENT: Sally Peterson, Code Enforcement; Chuck Votel, Code Enforcement; Guy Willits, Code Enforcement Summary Abatement Appeal for 915 Charles Avenue. (File J9903A1) (Laid over from 7-6-99) Guy Willits reported orders were mailed on Mazch 29, 1999, to remove gazbage, rubbish, furniture, appliances, scrap wood, household items, tires, eta The work was done by Pazks and Recreation on April 9 for a cost of $295. (A videotape was shown twice.) Bich Tran, owner, appeared and stated a lot of trash was on the lot, but she cleaned up much of it. Gerry Strathman stated ail he saw in the videotape was brush. The owner must have done extensive cleaning. Mr. Wiilits concurred. Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment from $295 to $40 plus the $40 administration fee, whlch brings the assessment to a total of $80. Summary Abatement Appeal For 941 Edmund Avenue. (File J9903B1) (Laid over from 7-6-99) Guy Willits reported this is an emergency boazding by request of the Fire Department. Tim DeRusha, owner, appeazed and stated he got a call in the moming that a house had exploded from natural gas. He feels the boazd up fee is excessive. (Mr. DeRusha was shown the bill.) Gerry Strathman explained the City has a standing contract with a boazding company. The reason it is cosUy is because the company has to respond immediately whenever the police or fire department calls them. The police and fire deparhnents cannot leave a building unsecured. Mr. Strathman agrees the fee is high, but it is what the City is being chazged for the kind of service the City has to have. It should be covered by the insurance company because it is related to the accident. Mr. DeRusha responded he did not know the amount to bill, and today's heazing 3s after the insurance company has settled. What was billed to the insurance company was the 99-�,� �fi�� LEGISLATTVE HEARING MINUT'ES OF 7-20-99 Page 2 commercial rate of $13.50. Tfris fee is $1,490, which is $210 an hour. He has no control over this tragedy, and Northern States Power (NSP) says they aze not taking any responsibility for it. Mr. Strathman asked how the contractors are selected. Chuck Votel responded these contracts aze put up on a competitive bid price and sent to a list of known contractors that aze registered with the City. The contractor has to be on call 24 hours a day and be prepared to do this work. They usuaily go with the lowest bidder, wtuch is what was done in this case. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. Summary Abatements: File J9904A - Property Clean-Up during the last week of April and all of May 1999. File J9904B - Boarding-up of vacant buildings during Apri11999. File J9902V - Tuwing of abandoned vehicles from private property during November and December 1998, January and February 1999. 762 Central Avenue West (File J9904A) Lany and Gwendolyn Fletcher, tenants, appeazed and stated they saw the cleanup. Guy Willits reported orders were mailed on May 7, 1999, to remove garbage. The work was done by Pazks and Recreation on May 20 for a fee of $220.50. (A videotape was shown.) He is puzzled that orders were sent on May 7, discussed with the Fletchers on May 13, and it was still there on May 20, stated Mr. Strathman. Ms. Fletcher responded it was discussed with the owners and not them. It was inside the yazd, stated Mr. Fletcher. Mr. Strathman explained trash cannot be stored outside in Saint Paul. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment citing the notice was given and the work was done. The assessment will be to the property owner. 408 Charles Avenue (File J4402V) No one appeazed representing the property. Gerry Suathman zecommended approval of the assessment. LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 56 Cook Avenue West (File J9904A) No one appeazed representing the property. Gerry Strathman recotnmende� approval of the assessment. 952 Euclid Street (File 39902V) Daniel Feess, owner, appeazed. y'9- �s-� � Page 3 Guy Willits reported orders were posted on October 21, 1998, and mailed on October 22 to remove an abandoned vetucle with no license plates, hood, nor engine. The vehicle was removed on November 17 for a total of $570.90. It was auctioned for $60, which has been subtracted from the assessment fee. (Photographs were presented and later returned.) Gerry Strathman asked for a breakdown of the cost. Mr. Willits responded he did not have that information. Chuck Votel added that the impound lot sends notice to the owner and lien holders. Mr. Feess stated his tenant lives downstairs. He kept telling his tenant to remove the vehicle. When the vehicle was gone, Mr. Feess assumed the tenant temoved it. The vehicle has nothing to do with Mr. Feess. If it is on your property, then you aze responsibie for it, stated Mr. Strathman. Mr. Feess responded he has to get along with his tenant. Mr. Strathman asked for an estimate of how much is the storage. Mr. Willits responded the majority is storage. Mr. Votel responded a routine tow is about $125. The properry has a history of notices, stated Mr. Willits. Mr. Feess responded renters leave things outside and don't clean up after themselves. He tries to stay on top of it, but his job requires him to be out of town three monttts at a time. Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment from $570.90 to $160 plus $40 administration fees, which brings the assessment to a total of $200. 727 Marshall Avenue (File J9904A) Guy Willits reported orders were mailed on April 13 and 20, 1999, to remove wood/brush, fence, and litter. Pazks and Recreation did the work on May 5 for $550. This is a vacant lot. (A videotape was shown. A worker says on the videotape that a fence was not seen.) Rosita Meehan and Kathleen Kieser, 1227 Seventh Street West, appeazed and said they had just cut down their tree plus the neighbor's tree. They took all the heavy stuff away. It was _��s_S�� LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 Page 4 scheduled for someone to chip the pile. They missed seeing the Code Enforcement notice in their pile of mail. When the brush was gone, they assumed the company had taken it away. He is amazed at the cost of $550, stated Gerry Strathman. Mr. Willits responded he did not see on the videotape any of the items, except for the brush. The assessment does seem high. Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment &om $550 to $110 plus $40 administration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $150. The notice was sent as required; however, the chazge does seem excessive in view of the work that was done. 2106 Mazshall Avenue (File J9904A) Sam Czaplewski, fee owner, appeazed and stated his son lives at this properiy. Guy Willits reported orders were mailed on April 8, 1999, to remove a refrigerator, mamesses, couches, chair, bags of gazbage, branches, old fencing, litter, beer bottles, and cans. Parks and Recreation did the work on April 23 for a total of $293. (A videotape was shown.) Mr. Czaplewski stated the videotape is a lie because the workers did not clean up anything except for the refrigerator. He has already been to court on this, and the judge dismissed the case. (The videotape was shown again.) The refrigerator was moved out while the kitchen floor was being replaced, stated Mr. Czaplewski. He is going to have to hire an attorney for this. He would like $1,200 returned to him for the refrigerator and gate. Everything was cleaned up. Gerry Strathman asked about the sofa and the catpeting. Mr. Czaplewski responded it was cleaned up. Mr. Strathman stated they took videotape that shows carpet present and then took more videotape that shows the carpet gone. Some of the videotape was taken after his tenants removed the items, stated Mr. Czaplewski. Mr. Strathman stated he does not believe the refrigerator was outside for two weeks while the floor was being repaired, nor does he believe the tenants cleaned up the couch or the cazpet. The videotape is taken when they arrive and when they leave. Mr. Czaplewski responded his tenants aze lying to him then. Mr. Czaplewski requested an extension of time for his attorney to handle this issue. To appeal his decision, Mr. Strathman explained, a norice needs to be sent to him by noon on Thursday. Gezry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment because he does not find Mr. Czaplewski's story credible. (Note: Mr. Czaplewski handed in a written statement before leaving the meeting.) � _��-.�; LEGISLATTVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 906 Russell Street (File J9902V) No one appeared representing the property. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 613 Rose Avenue East (File J9904A) No one appeared representing the property. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 1020 Cartoll Avenue (File J9904A) Gloria Favis, owner, appeazed. Page 5 Guy Willits reported the notice was mailed on May 10, 1999, to removed refuse and fumiture. Pazks and Recreation did the work on May 18 for $295. (A videotape was shown.) Ms. Favis stated the tenant is responsibie for this. There were three people living there, and then there were about 15 people in the house. Since October 1998, Ms. Favis had been telling the tenants to move. The tenants say they would be homeless. Ms. Favis has asked for assistance from crime services to heip the tenants. Crime services suggested she raise the rent. The tenants rely on sociai security. If Ms. Favis filed for eviction in court, she would get nothing. The tenants have no deposit. She has already spent $1,200 fi�ng the inside because the tenants clogged the toilet and there were problems with the ceiling. Ms. Favis told the tenants to leave because she is in trouble with Code Enforcement and they trashed the piace. She will not file chazges against them. She is already paying too much in tases. Gerry Strathman asked when did the tenants move out. Ms. Favis responded May 3. They threw a(I the garbage outside. The carpet has to be replaced. The property has to be painted. She is thinking about foreclosing on the property. Why wasn't it cleaned up when the notice was received, asked Mr. Strathman. Ms. Favis responded she wrote a letter to the Yenant to remove the garbage. They promised they woald do it. (Mr. Willits presented photographs to Mr. Strathman. They were later retumed.) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. A lot of trash was removed. The owner is responsible. LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 1068 Ialehart Avenue (File J9902V) Gerry Stratiunan recommended deleting the assessment per Guy Willits. � �s� Page 6 1Zesolution ordering the owner fo remove or repair fhe property at 419 Sherburne Avenue. If the owner fails fo comply wifh the resolution, Code Enforcemenf is ordered fo remove the building. Chuck Votet reported this building has been condemned since March 1998 and has been vacant since that time. Tracy and Chrisfine Sy�vis are the recorded owners. The vacant building fees aze due. Real estaYe t�es aze due in the amount of $3,078.02. The estimated market value is $46,800; estimatad cost to repair, $20,000; cost to demolish, $10,000 to $11,000. All interested parYies have been notified. A. Vue appeared on behalf of his brother Bee Vue, who has a contract for deed on this properiy. Bee Vue wrote a]etter conceming what he intends to do wiYh the property. (A. Vue handed Mr. Strathman a letter from $ee Vue.) The letter says the Perkowitzs aze the first mortgage holders, said Mr. Strathman. Mr Vote] responded they are the fee owners. (A. Vue handed Mr. Strathman a paper entitled Assignment of Mortgage.) Mr. Strathman asked how much time Bee Vue needs to get control of this property. A. Vue responded two weeks. It appears to be secured, said Mr. Strathman. Mr. Votel concurred. Mr. Votel added that in June the City issued two summary abatement notices to clean the yard and cut the grass. Mr. Strathman stated it is in Bee Vue's best interest to take care of the yard. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the August 10 Legislative Heazing. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1329 Van Buren Avenue. If t6e owner faits to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove fhe building. Chuck Votel reported this building has been vacant since August 1998. The owner is Stewart Flowers. The Ciry has issued three sutumary abatement notices to cut the grass and secure the property. Vacant building fees are due. The estimated mazket value is $16,500; estimated cost to repair, $45,000, estimated cost to demolish, $6,000 to $7,000. LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 �' �'- �'s-� Page 7 Dave Alstead, Hamline Midway Area Rehabilitation Cooperation (H-MARC), appeared and stated the house does need to come down. H-MARC is interested in talking with the owners about purchasing the properry with the intent to teaz the house down and build a new one. Jati ne Straue and Dayne Albrecht appeared. Mr. Albrecht staYed the property belongs to his wife's �other who is not able to deal with this properly. There is a program called selective c'.c:: ance, «�hich they applied for last yeaz. This issue has not gone anywhere. Ms. Albrecht stated the house does not wazrazit repair. Mr. Strathman stated it would be his inclination to recommend remove oz repair. The cost of that demolition would be assessed against the properry. An option is to deal with H-MARC, which wants to buy the building. Sally Peterson reported that a yeaz ago the Albrechts applied for selective cleazance. The application was missing certain information such as the address and date. Now, a new application is being done. Ms. Albrecht responded she has not received a new application. Mr. Strathman staTed he would like to see a city siaff person work wiYh the Albrechts aztd bring them to PED. In the meantime, the Albrechts may want to talk with H-MARC. He may have to deal with power of attorney, and he is not awaze of what it takes to achieve, stated Mr. Albrecht. Mr. Votel stated there aze no any immediate issues with this properry. C�erry Strathman recommended laying over to the August IO Legislative Hearing to give the Albrechts additional time to deal with this properry. Hopefully, there wili be a plan worked out by the». T)�e meetino was adjoumed at 11:33 a.m. I711 City of St_ Pau1 RESOLII2IO23 RATIF"YING ASSESSMEf7T �me.�e� - S�p�-. � :t,\�t`�,� � � � Voting Ward In the matter of the assessment of benefits, cast and e�cpenses for 2 39904B1 (9840) Boarding-up oE 600 - 7 St. W. during the month of April 1999_ � Mre.v�ri.>�' • J�-�. � 4 0 . COUNCIL FILE NO_ 1 6" � S� By File No. SEE BELOW Assessment No. SEE BELOW �S. � � LAID OVER BY COUNCIL ON 7-28-99 TO 8-4-99 ��' r TBERE WILL BE NO LEGISI,ATIVE IiEARING ��; A public hearing having been had upon the assessment for the above improvement, and said assessment having been further considered by the Council, and having been considered finally satisfactory, there£ore, be it RESOLVED, That the said assessment be and the same is hereby in all respects ratified. RESOLVED FURTHER, That the said assessment be and it is hereby determined to be payable in One equal installments. COUNCILPERSON Yeas Nays nanav �akey �ostrom ✓Coleman ✓-�Iarris ntry eiter � In Favor sg_Agains t Adopted by the Council: Date J�l�.� . b -�,�� .� Certified Passes by Council Secretary � ti � a a n a � � E 0 W rn � E � � � Q J � � v � 0 � � / � �/ U ( (� h Cj�j a a a . o � w ad � � H a � z H � � W x H z � w O � a � H U a � � � rn m N � 0 c 0 � ri �o Q iM � Q i � H i O � � N i rn 'n E C •• � a i i ^' w�m \� O�N � a�m a � <v � � � � 0 �,d oo �� ao�� N r1 ➢ � 1 �� 11 1 �� ' x n � � �y t ii U � F II ; �� W II 1 i/l 1 O00 H�000 H 1 O O O � I O O O i . . • �o.�s a i � O�N E� U � � � W i W�000 E�000 r.0 o00 w � . i N � � H � c� �-+ H i � 1 t i i i i i � ; 1 1 1 � � I I 1 1 i i � w � cv � � � ' ��] x � � w c� � z �zww � OiQH� i ��Q� � w � m rC cn � 1 � x o i E tio �i i no�� i � H i W � U1 � i ONrn i , o �, w � � E+ � E a�3� � P, � o v�iwqw � H i H z W � ck � E E fa FC o [-+ � m�A �a�aF� z � W i q W W N ri i Q i FC in ti W i 7� i u]]u x� i N a' � 3ao�2w �. �� W i O E P. ai i w i.7 E W W W W m � O i�n2 h 0000 + N � R�i I ~ /rHll� fii �'i � a s r-i FC �[�+ H E+ o�� mmmw�wa m � � i i � m i i m i � M � U] N rl i 1 O 61 r 1 � w' � ��a o i r � c7a� •. � a � r i FC � a0£�m i E iwqOE� i w' � mbF.rV` � o��xW ' w i o o q i � �ow�oz � 3��orn� � O� Gl o.7 # x i 0 0 o u o 0 0 o I I o . i� . o �n �n n o ifl N rl II T N +/++? 11 N �? 11 vx n n II il u n n n n I II n u n � II a n P n c9 w � ii H II� q CGH�iio O� W 1 i F �� ii U aaanw �Ca�Cnh E+E+E n O 000 n fk E+EH Ila m w U � a E a W k w 0 � a U � a `i �iq -��G To T.egislative Hearing Officer - No I.egislative Hearing Public HearinQ Date - 8-4-99 T.M.S./REAL ESTATE DIVISION ;ontaM Person and Pho Roatana Flink �. 266-8859 �� ne aa co,��a ng�aa ny: Public hearing is set or 8-4-99. Rust be in Council Research �ce Date: . e..a RE-7-30-99 � q.R -'�SG 7/29/99 Green Sheet Nwnber: 09496 i� �EPARTMENTDIRECfOR ITYCOUNCII, ATTORNEY DIILECIOR CLERS & MGT. SVG DIIL 1 ICOUNCII. RESEARCH AL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES 1 (CLIP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATURE) ION REQUESTED: At Council's request on 7-28-99 to 8-4-99, Boarding-up of vacant bldg for property at 600 - 7`n St. W. during the month of April 1999, J9904B1 was laid over for further discussion. PLANNA'G COilRhI15SION CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION CIB COHM1TfEE ns whidh Councit Objective Neighborhoods A STAFF . Has We person/firm ever worked under a contract for t6is depar�ent? YES NO A Public Health . Has fLis person/firm ever been a City employee? YES NO A Vanm Bldg ' D°es llus pers°dfirm possess a s]dll not aormally possessed by any YES NO __ current City employee. Ezplain ail YES aaswers oa a separate sheet and attach. VG PROBLEM, ISSUE, OPPORTONTTY (4Vho, What, When, Where, Why?): "SEE ORIGINAL GREEN SFIEET NUMBER 63735" IFAPPROVED: IF AYPROVED: IF NOT APYROVED: �L AMOUNT OF TRANSACTION: �2fO.00 COST/REVENUE BUDGETED (CIRCLE ONE) �ING SOURCE: ASSCSSITICRYS OIlIy' ACTIVITYNUMBER: KCIAL INFORMATIO�': (EXPLAiIh 1 propertv owners wili be notified of the nublic hearins and charaes. YES NO City of St. Paul Real Estate Division Dept, of Techaology & Managemeat Serv REPORT OF COMPLETION OF ASSESSMENT COUNCIL FILE NO. /�� ` File No. SEE BELOW Assessment No_ SEE BELOW Voting Ward In the matter of the assessment of benefits, cost and expenses for 2 J9904B1 (9840) Boarding-up of 600 - 7"' St. W. during the month of April 1999. LAID OVER BY COUDICIL ON 7-28-44 TO 8-4-49 TEiERE WILL SE NO LEGISLATIVE HEARING To the Council of the City of St. Paul q�--t5� The Valuation and Assessment Engineer hereby reports to the Council the following as a statement of the e�enditures necessarily incurred for and in connection with the making of the above improvement, viz: Total construction costs $�`s0 0� FL �-�-C3 c'l Valuation and Assessment Services $ Administration Charge - Public Aealth $ 25.00 Re-Check Charge - Public Health $ Abatement Service Charge $ 15.00 TOTAL E%PENDITURES $�'Bd �� °2 �° �� Charge To $ /� Net Assessment $298�6fr� dy" � ��', � � Said Valuation and Assessment Engineer further reports that he has assessed and levied the total amount as above ascertained, to-wit: the sum of $290.00 upon each and every lot, part or parcel of land deemed benefited by the said improvement, and in the case of each lot, part or parcel of land in accordance with the benefits conferred thereon; that the said assessment has been completed, and that hereto attached, identified by the signature of the said Valuation and Assessment Engineer, and made a part hereof, is the said assessment as completed by him, and which is herewith submitted to the Council for such action t,,.hereon as may be considered proper. // �„ „ Dated 7 � c�-9- 9 �1 and Assessment Engineer �q _ �s� �� •�� Date: September 7, 1999 Time: 10:00 a.m. Piace: Room 330 City Hall 15 Wesi Kellogg Boulevard LEGISLATIVE HEARING Gerry Strathman Legislarive Hearing Officer 1. Summary Abatement: Boarding up of vacant building at 600 Seventh Street West, Jessica Martin. (J9904B) (Per City Council meeting of 8/4/99) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $85 plus the $40 administrative fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $125. 2. Summary Abatements: File J9905A Property clean-up and/or grass cutting during June 1994 File J9905C Demolifion of vacant buildings during June 1999 File J9903V Towing of abandoned vehicles from private property during March 1999 File J9905B Boarding up of vacant building during May 1999 File SSA9901 Sanitary sewer service repairs 986 Colne Street (File SSA9901) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $3,566 plus the $40 administrative fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $3,606. 995 Kennazd Street (File J9905C) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 1790 Wordsworth Avenue (File J9905A) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the labor chazge by half, making it $315 for labor, leaving the 6 yazd disposal fee at $108, pius the $40 administrative fee, for a totai assessment of $463. 942 Carroll Avenue (File J9905A) Gerry Strathman recommended deleting the assessment. 430-�34 Case Avenue (File 79905A) Gerry Strathman recommended approving the assessment. 599 Pavne Avenue (File J99QSA) Gerry Strathman recommended approving the assessment. c�q.7S� LEGISLATIVE AEARING REPORT OF 9-7-99 Page 2 3. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 805 Agate Street. If the owner faiLs to comply with the resolufion, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the November 2, 1999, Legisiarive Hearing. 4. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1087 Ross Avenue. If the owner fails to compiy with the resolufion, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended approval. rrn c�q.�S6 NIINUTES OF THE LEGISLATIVE HEA.RING Tuesday, September 7,1999 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer STAFF PRESENT: Roxanne Flink, Real Estate; Bobbi Levitan, Housing Information Office (HIO); Steve Magner, Code Enforcemem; Chuck Votel, Code Enforcement; Guy VJillits, Code Enforcement The meeting was called to order at 10:00 am. Summary Abatement: Boarding up of vacant building at 600 Seventh Street West, Jessica Martin. (J9904B) (Per City Council meeting of 8!4l99) Jessica Martin stated she received an assessment for boazding up a vacant building; however, the building was not vacant. There was a burglary in April, the burglars came in the back screen, and lifted the metal grate. The police were called. The company that boarded up the properry put four screws in the screen. Since then, the azea is blocked in with concrete blocks, and that only cost $450. Ms. Martin questions the charge just to install screws, and why the building owners were not contacted. (Ms. Martin showed a photograph to Gerry Strathman.) Guy Willits reported this was an emergency boarding. The Fire Department called for the emergency contractor, and this is what the contractor charged. The assessment is for one trip plus securing the property. (Mr. Willits presented paperwork.) Mr. Strathman explained when the police or fue aze called to an emergency situation, they are not allowed to leave the property unsecured. The City has a contractor that will come when called, and secure the properry so the police and fire personnel can leave. The terms of the agreement is that the contractor will be paid $200 per trip. Once the company is at the property, there is an addifional fee for securing the properry. Mr. Strathman stated these are usually not contested because they are covered by insurance. Ms. Martin responded this is the second burglary and the insurance company is not paying anymore. Gerry Strathman recommended the assessment be reduced to $85 plus the $40 administrative fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $125. Summary Abatements: File J9905A Property clean-up andlor grass cutting during June 1999 File J9905C Demolition of vacant buildings during June 1999 File J9903V Towing of abandoned vehicles from private property during March 1999 File J9905B Boarding up of vacant buiiding during May 1999 File SSA9901 Sanitary sewer service repairs � LECsISLA'ITVE HEARING MINUTES OF 9-7-99 986 Colne Street (File SSA9901) Page 2 Jody Thraen, owner, appeared and stated she purchased her home in May 1997. In Augus� she discovered she had a rat problem. She had numerous exterminators come to her house to give her suggestions to clear up this problem. She spent hundreds of dollazs trying to get rid of the rats. She called several City offices for help, and they told her to call an esterminator. One ea�terminator told her there was a break in the sewer line and to call Public VJorks. Public Works gave her the name and number of a person who videotapes sewers. This man videotaped her sewer line and discovered a break in it. Ms. Thraen had that section replaced. However, rats still came into her home. Ms. Thraen cailed her City council member who got her in touch with Chuck Votel. He came out with a sewer contractor, who observed there were rats in the house. They found there were multiple breaks in the sewer line. The contractor suggested the entire sewer pipe be replaced from the main a11 the way to the street, and they estimated it would cost between $3,000 to $4,000. Ms. Thraen agreed to pay that cost. Later, they realized it would go beyond that price. She had no chance to get second bids. Gerry Strathman asked was she told what was happening. Mr. Thraen responded the sewer pipe was further below ground than anticipated. There was a tree in the front yazd which prevented them from getting into the street, the sidewalk had to be dug up. Ms. Thraen wanted to put a halt on the whole thing because she could not afford it. She was told to finish the project and worry about paying for it later. It ended up being three times more than it was quoted. Since then, there is no rat problem. If this assessment is put on her tases she will not be able to live there. Bobbi Levitan, Ramsey County Mortgage Foreclosure Prevention Program, appeazed and stated she worked with Ms. Thraen, who was refened by the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency. Ms. Thraen did everything she was told by professionals, City personnel, contractors, and externunators. Ms. Levitan was able to secure money for Ms. Thraen to get the camera test done. It was later found that the camera test was not done correctly. It should have been done all the way to the main sewer, but it was videotaped to the first break and stopped, Chuck Votel reported the conuactor estimated the project to be about $3,000. It was Code EnforcemenYs decision that the entire line needed to be replaced. There was convincing evidence that rats were not just entering the basement, but also escaping into the neighborhood. Despite Ms. Thraen's direction that she couid not afford the fee, it was Mr. Votel's decision to complete the repair so it would not be a problem for the neighborhood. The cost went way over what was estimated. It included restoring the retaining wall, sidewalk, and some other things. The original estimate was $3,000, asked Mr. Strathman. Ms. Thraen responded $3,600 has been paid. Mr. Strathman recommended raducing the assessment to $3,566 plus the $40 service charge, which brings the assessment t4 a total of $3,606. The City policy is cleaz on this issue: property owners are responsible for the sewer line on their property. In view of the fact that Ms. Thraen operated in accordance with the advice given by City officials, and given Mr. Votel's q LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 9-7-99 Page 3 determination that this was a public safety issue, ffiese two things can be taken into consideration in mitigating this case. 995 Kennard Street (File J9905C) Jean Osteraas, owner, appeazed and stated she purchased this house at the t� forfeit auction in April. 'There was a small Quonset (taut) on that property. She said she would like to keep that structure, and would clean it out. She planned to build a small manufacturing plant and to use the Quonset to store materials. (Ms. Osteraas showed picture of her plans to Mr. Strathman.) Ms. Osteraas was told by someone from the tas forfeit office that they would see what they could do with the city regazding demolition of the Quonset. Ms. Osteraas was told that if the Counry was not successful and there was demolition, that would be announced at the day of the auction. She went to the o�ce one morning, and there was no mention that the Quonset was demolished the previous day. All the paperwork reads `pending demolition.' The bill for the demolirion is for $3,000. Ms. Osteraas went to City personnel, who said they never had a request from the tax forfeit office to save that building. The County claims they made a requsst on the telephone. The City blames the County and the County blames the City. Ms. Osteraas stated her letter says it was scheduled for demolition in June, but it was demolished in April. Guy Willits explained the legisiative hearing was on 3-16-99, and the City Council hearing was on 3-24-99. It would have been scheduled for demolition 18 days later, which would be April. Steve Magner reported Ramsey County was aware that the City Council passed a resolution to demolish the building. The County said they were going to sell it at auction, and they were told to take court action to stop the Ciry from demolishing the building, but they never did that. This was a deteriorating Quonset that had been broken into and vandalized over the yeazs. Residents were upset that the City had not taken action on this matter. Ms. Osteraas responded a neighbor did not want the kids having parties in there, but it could have been secured against that. Mr. Strathman stated ihe cost was $2,700 for demolition, which is the contractor fee and asked what is the $492.48. Mr. Votel responded the administrative fee for process service and title work. Roxanne Flink explained the property was pending demolition. Any taac forfeited assessment is paid by the City and not the County. State law says the City pays a11 assessments on tas forfeited properry. The City gets their money after the County takes their money out of handling the sale. The City is responsible for levied items and nothing eise. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment citing he cannot find any fault with what the City did. If Ramsey County made promises, the owner might have some acuon against them. qq - �s� LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 9-7-99 1790 Wordsworth Avenue (File J9905A) Page 4 Michele Cooper, owner, appeared and stated she has had major problems keeping up with her lawn since her car accident. She has not been working since last May. Last yeaz, there was a lazge tree limb in her yazd. She came home one day, the lawn was cleaned, and she recently got an assessment. The City had to undue her fence and there were tire ruts in her yard. Ms. Cooper is not contesqng that the work was done, but wonders if it really had to cost that much. Guy VJillits reported that orders were sent 5-17-99 to remove debris and cut tall grass with a comply date of 5-26-99. The work was done on 6-3-99. (A videotape was shown.) (A copy of the work order was shown to Mr. Strathman.) The bill reads 6 yazds (dumpster) for $108, 1'/z hours of grass for $210, and two hours for $420, stated Mr. Strathman. He asked what the 1'h hours is for. Mr. Votel answered the grass cutting rate is different than the rubbish removal rate. Ms. Cooper said it does not take 1'/z hours to cut the grass because her lawn is not big. Gerry Strathman recommended reducing by half the labor charge, making it $315 for labor, leaving the 6 yard disposal fee at $108, plus the $40 administrative fee, for a total assessment of $463. He stated he hopes the owner understands that it is better for her to take caze of the lawn than for the City to do it. 942 Carroll Avenue (File J9905A) Guy Willits reported two inspectors were at this properry, each with a different compliance date. In between the two compliance dates, the City went out and abated the properiy. Mr. Willits asked for it to be deleted. Gerty Strathman recommended deleting the assessment. 430-434 Case Avenue (File J9905A) No one appeazed. Gerry Strathman recommended approving the assessment. 599 Pavne Avenue (File J9905A) No one appeazed. Gerry Strathman recommended approving the assessment. 99-�s� LECsISLA1'IVE HEARING MINUTES OF 4-7-99 Page 5 Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 805 Agate Street. If the owner faiLs to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the buffding. Steve Magner reported this has been a vacant building since 9-22-98. It is listed as a 5tate of Minnesota t� exempt properiy. There have been eight siunmary abatement notices issued to remove refuse, cut grass, secure the building, and remove deteriorated retaining wall. The vacant building fees aze due. Real estate taYes are paid. The estimated market value is $43,800. The owner had a code compiiance inspection done on 4-15-98. The $2,000 bond was forfeited on 6- 15-99 because the owner had a yeaz to work on the property, and did not complete the ttecessary work. The estimated cost to repair is $25,000; to demolish, $7,000 to $8,000. (Photographs were shown to Gerry Strathman.) Mr. Strathman stated he is unclear about the ownership. Mr. Magner responded the property was purchased from the State of Minnesota taY exempt for a contract for deed. Joy Agbaza was listed as the owner, but has been removed. However, Code Enforcement recognizes Joy Agbaza as the owner of the properry. Joy Agbaza appeazed and stated she purchased the house in 1997. The payment was $1,70Q, and she thought that included the taxes. She paid the $1,700, but received a letter that she still owed $1,700. She talked to a Christine Kujala, who told her the $1,7001eft was the properry tax. Ms. Agbaza paid another $500 with some remaining to pay. She paid a man $8,006 to fix the house. He took the addition off of the house, but did not fix the house well. The City told her what was done in the sear of her house was not done correctly, and it had to be demolished. Ms. Agbaza applied for a loan io fix the house, and is now waiting for it to be approved. She received a letter that the city was taking the house. She told them she did not receive any other correspondence from them. They said they gave something to Ms. Agbara's daughter, and it is not their fault that her daughter did not inform her. Gerry Strathman asked is it vacant now. Ms. Agbara responded yes. Chris Kujala, Ramsey County Ta�t ForFeited Land Department, appeared and stated Ms. Agbara entered into a contract agreement with her office and purchased the property at an auction in 1997. There was installment and interest payments that accrues on the unpaid balance of the contract. Ms. Agbaza was prepazed to make the installxnent minus the interest. She has a delinquent tax amount. Ms. Kujala's department took steps to cancal the contract based on state law. Mr. Strathman asked how the process works to cancel the contract. Ms. Kujala responded her office gives three notices that the contract will be cancelied. From there, it is turned over to the County Attorney's Office. They have served Ms. Agbaza with the paperwork of the canceilation and the 60 day redemption period. The redemprion period has passed, and the contract has been cancelled, but the claun at this point is there was invalid service to Ms. Agbara. The owner's attorney and the Ramsey County attorney are in a litigation mode right now. aq-�s� LEGISLATIVE HEAR1AiG MINLTT`ES OF 9-7-99 Page 6 Does Ramsey County intend to intervene in the demolition, asked Mr. Strathman. Ms. Kujala responded yes because there is an auction on 10-28-99. Paperwork has been sent to change the records back to State of Minnesota. Mr. Strathman stated the photographs dated 5-19-99 show the yard full of refuse and asked has that been taken caze of. Ms. Kujala responded she only received norice that it needed to be boazded up. Ms. Agbara responded she boarded it and mowed the lawn last week. Mr. Magner responded Pazks and Recreation cleaned the yazd a number of times. The summary abatement notices have gone to the State of Minnesota and to Ms. Agbara. The properry is being maintained. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the November 2, 1999, Legislative Hearing. Mr. Magner added that he would like the building to be maintained and secured. He suggested the County advertise that the properry is a registered vacant building, and will require a code compliance inspection plus a$2,000 bond before permits aze issued to rehabilitate the property. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the building at 1087 Ross Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Steve Magner reported this has been vacant since 9-11-98. Six summary abatement notices have been issued to remove refuse, cut tall grass, secure the building, and remove snow from sidewalks. The vacant buiiding fees are due. The tases are unpaid. Tasation has placed a mazket value of $36,100 on this property. A code compliance inspection has not been agplied for and a bond has not been posted. The estimated cost to repair is $35,000; estimated cost to demolish, $6,000 to $7,000. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment citing no one is present to take responsibility for the building, and the estimated cost to repair the property is close to its estimated mazket value. The meeting was adjourned at i l:l l am. � 99 �� Interdepartmental Memorandum CITY OF SAINT PAUL To: Gerry Strathman Council Reseazch O�ce 310 Ciry Hall Guy Willits Division of Public Health 170 City Hall From: Roxanna Flink `�1`� Assessments Supervisor 140 City Hall Date: 7uly 29, 1999 Subject: Laid Over Summary Abatements File 79904B1 Boazding-up of vacant property at 600 - 7�' St. W. Attached is a copy of the above Assessment files laid over by Council on July 28, 1999 to August 4, 1999. There wlll not be a I.egislative Hearing. If you have any questions, please call me at 266-8859. RF:kr Attach. To Legislative Hearing Officer - July-�1999 Public Hearin Date - July 28, 1999 T.M.S.lREAL ESTATE DIVISION tac[ Person and Ph e' mber: II Roxana Flink ' D 266-8859 be on Councii A genda by: 7-7-9g be in Council Research Omce noon on Friday 7-2-99 DTAL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES l REQL3ESTED: AITORYEY �f — ..5� Green Sheet Number: 63735 DIRECiOR (OR ASSISTA\'n CODNCIL AIGT. SVC. DII2. RESEARCH ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNA Set date of public hearing and approve assmts for Summ Abate (property clean-up) during the last week of April & ail of May 1999 (J9904A), Boarding-up of vacant buildings during the month of April 1999 (J9904r,�) and Towing of Aband Vehicles during Nov or Dec 1998 or Jan or Feb 1999. (J9902� 3 biENDATIO? 1 S:APPROVE(A)ORREJ£CI'(R) ERSOKALSERVICEC0�7R1 ShIUSTANSWERiHEFOLLO\VL\C: PLAYNING CO�I�fISS10N A STAFF t. Has the person/firm ever worked under a contract for this department? YES \O CIVII. SERVICE COJIDIISSION A public Health . Has this person/firm ever been a City employee? YES NO CIB COMMIITEE rts whidh Council Objective Neighborhoods Esplain aif 1 ES answers on a separate sheet and attach. TI\G PROBLEIII, ISSUE, OPPORTUYITY (�Vho, �Vhat, When, �Vhere, �Vhy?): Property otivners or renters create a health hazard at various times throughout the City of Saint Paul when their property is not kept un. IFAPPROVED: Cost recovery programs to recover expenses for Summary Abatements, Boarding-up and Towing abandoned vehicles. This includes cutting tali grass and weeds, hauling away all garbage, debris, refuse and tires. Also, all household items such as refrigerators, stoves, sofas, chairs and all other items. In winter this includes the removal of snow and ice from sidewalk and cross walks. IF APPROVED: If Council does not approve these charges, General Fund would be required to pay the assessment. Assessments are payable over 1 year and coliected with the property taxes if not AGES IFNOTAPPROVED: Neighborhoods would be left to deteriorate and property values would decline. Nobody Fvould take care of their property, especially vacant or rental properties. 12odents, filth, garbage and trash would accamulate everywhere. Disease and pests could become a oroblem. �+�iouxr oFraa�sacr�o�: $34 �SZO.O9 COSl'lRE�'ENUE BUDGEl ED (CIRCLE ONE) YgS \O SOCBCE: ASS0SSri18IItS A Vacant Bidg Does this person/firm possess a skill not normally possessed by any YES TO ^_ curren[Cityemployee? RE-6-8-99 Date: 612/99 ACTS\1T1' �il�IBER: inA\CIAL INFORAIA'f10\: (E\PLAIY) 44 property owners will be notified of the public hearin� and REPORT Date: July 20, 1999 Time: 10:00 a.m. Place: Room 330 City Hall 15 West Kellogg Boulevazd LEGISLATIVE HEARING Gerry Strathman I,egislative Hearing Officer Summary Abatement Appeal for 915 Charles Avenue. (File J9903A1) (Laid over from 7-6-49) Gerry StraUunan reeommended reducing the assessment to $40 plus the $40 administration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $80. 2. Sunuuary Abatement Appeal for 941 Edmund Avenue. (File J9903B1) (Laid over &om 7-6-99) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 99- �s6 �'� Summary Abatements: File J9904A - Property Clean-Up during the last week of April and all of May 1999. File 39904B - Boazding-up of vacant buildings during April 1999. File J9902V - Towing of abandoned vetucles from private property during November and December 1998, January and February 1999. 762 Central Avenue West (File 39904A) Gerry Stratlunan recommended approval of the assessment. 408 Charles Avenue (File J9902V) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 56 Cook Avenue West (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 952 Euclid Street (File J99Q2V) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $160 plus $40 administration fees, which brings the assessment to a total of $200. 727 Marshall Avenue (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment to $110 plus $40 admitustration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $ I 50. 21Q6 Mazshall Avenue (File J4904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. �% �s`�' ��s�" LEGISLATIVE HEARII3G REPORT OF 7-20-99 906 Russell Street (File J9902� Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 613 Rose Avenue East (File 79904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 1020 Carroll Avenue (File J9904A) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 1068 Ielehart Avenue (File J9902� Gerty Strathman recommended deleting the assessment. Page 2 4. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 419 Sherbume Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the August 10 Legislative Hearing. 5. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1329 Van Buren Avenue. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the August 10 Legislative Hearing. rrn MINUTES OF TI� LEGISLATIVE HEARING Tuesday, July 20, 1999 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer The meeting was called to order at 10:00 a.m. 9� �s� �y. STAFF PRESENT: Sally Peterson, Code Enforcement; Chuck Votel, Code Enforcement; Guy Willits, Code Enforcement Summary Abatement Appeal for 915 Charles Avenue. (File J9903A1) (Laid over from 7-6-99) Guy Willits reported orders were mailed on Mazch 29, 1999, to remove gazbage, rubbish, furniture, appliances, scrap wood, household items, tires, eta The work was done by Pazks and Recreation on April 9 for a cost of $295. (A videotape was shown twice.) Bich Tran, owner, appeared and stated a lot of trash was on the lot, but she cleaned up much of it. Gerry Strathman stated ail he saw in the videotape was brush. The owner must have done extensive cleaning. Mr. Wiilits concurred. Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment from $295 to $40 plus the $40 administration fee, whlch brings the assessment to a total of $80. Summary Abatement Appeal For 941 Edmund Avenue. (File J9903B1) (Laid over from 7-6-99) Guy Willits reported this is an emergency boazding by request of the Fire Department. Tim DeRusha, owner, appeazed and stated he got a call in the moming that a house had exploded from natural gas. He feels the boazd up fee is excessive. (Mr. DeRusha was shown the bill.) Gerry Strathman explained the City has a standing contract with a boazding company. The reason it is cosUy is because the company has to respond immediately whenever the police or fire department calls them. The police and fire deparhnents cannot leave a building unsecured. Mr. Strathman agrees the fee is high, but it is what the City is being chazged for the kind of service the City has to have. It should be covered by the insurance company because it is related to the accident. Mr. DeRusha responded he did not know the amount to bill, and today's heazing 3s after the insurance company has settled. What was billed to the insurance company was the 99-�,� �fi�� LEGISLATTVE HEARING MINUT'ES OF 7-20-99 Page 2 commercial rate of $13.50. Tfris fee is $1,490, which is $210 an hour. He has no control over this tragedy, and Northern States Power (NSP) says they aze not taking any responsibility for it. Mr. Strathman asked how the contractors are selected. Chuck Votel responded these contracts aze put up on a competitive bid price and sent to a list of known contractors that aze registered with the City. The contractor has to be on call 24 hours a day and be prepared to do this work. They usuaily go with the lowest bidder, wtuch is what was done in this case. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. Summary Abatements: File J9904A - Property Clean-Up during the last week of April and all of May 1999. File J9904B - Boarding-up of vacant buildings during Apri11999. File J9902V - Tuwing of abandoned vehicles from private property during November and December 1998, January and February 1999. 762 Central Avenue West (File J9904A) Lany and Gwendolyn Fletcher, tenants, appeazed and stated they saw the cleanup. Guy Willits reported orders were mailed on May 7, 1999, to remove garbage. The work was done by Pazks and Recreation on May 20 for a fee of $220.50. (A videotape was shown.) He is puzzled that orders were sent on May 7, discussed with the Fletchers on May 13, and it was still there on May 20, stated Mr. Strathman. Ms. Fletcher responded it was discussed with the owners and not them. It was inside the yazd, stated Mr. Fletcher. Mr. Strathman explained trash cannot be stored outside in Saint Paul. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment citing the notice was given and the work was done. The assessment will be to the property owner. 408 Charles Avenue (File J4402V) No one appeazed representing the property. Gerry Suathman zecommended approval of the assessment. LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 56 Cook Avenue West (File J9904A) No one appeazed representing the property. Gerry Strathman recotnmende� approval of the assessment. 952 Euclid Street (File 39902V) Daniel Feess, owner, appeazed. y'9- �s-� � Page 3 Guy Willits reported orders were posted on October 21, 1998, and mailed on October 22 to remove an abandoned vetucle with no license plates, hood, nor engine. The vehicle was removed on November 17 for a total of $570.90. It was auctioned for $60, which has been subtracted from the assessment fee. (Photographs were presented and later returned.) Gerry Strathman asked for a breakdown of the cost. Mr. Willits responded he did not have that information. Chuck Votel added that the impound lot sends notice to the owner and lien holders. Mr. Feess stated his tenant lives downstairs. He kept telling his tenant to remove the vehicle. When the vehicle was gone, Mr. Feess assumed the tenant temoved it. The vehicle has nothing to do with Mr. Feess. If it is on your property, then you aze responsibie for it, stated Mr. Strathman. Mr. Feess responded he has to get along with his tenant. Mr. Strathman asked for an estimate of how much is the storage. Mr. Willits responded the majority is storage. Mr. Votel responded a routine tow is about $125. The properry has a history of notices, stated Mr. Willits. Mr. Feess responded renters leave things outside and don't clean up after themselves. He tries to stay on top of it, but his job requires him to be out of town three monttts at a time. Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment from $570.90 to $160 plus $40 administration fees, which brings the assessment to a total of $200. 727 Marshall Avenue (File J9904A) Guy Willits reported orders were mailed on April 13 and 20, 1999, to remove wood/brush, fence, and litter. Pazks and Recreation did the work on May 5 for $550. This is a vacant lot. (A videotape was shown. A worker says on the videotape that a fence was not seen.) Rosita Meehan and Kathleen Kieser, 1227 Seventh Street West, appeazed and said they had just cut down their tree plus the neighbor's tree. They took all the heavy stuff away. It was _��s_S�� LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 Page 4 scheduled for someone to chip the pile. They missed seeing the Code Enforcement notice in their pile of mail. When the brush was gone, they assumed the company had taken it away. He is amazed at the cost of $550, stated Gerry Strathman. Mr. Willits responded he did not see on the videotape any of the items, except for the brush. The assessment does seem high. Gerry Strathman recommended reducing the assessment &om $550 to $110 plus $40 administration fee, which brings the assessment to a total of $150. The notice was sent as required; however, the chazge does seem excessive in view of the work that was done. 2106 Mazshall Avenue (File J9904A) Sam Czaplewski, fee owner, appeazed and stated his son lives at this properiy. Guy Willits reported orders were mailed on April 8, 1999, to remove a refrigerator, mamesses, couches, chair, bags of gazbage, branches, old fencing, litter, beer bottles, and cans. Parks and Recreation did the work on April 23 for a total of $293. (A videotape was shown.) Mr. Czaplewski stated the videotape is a lie because the workers did not clean up anything except for the refrigerator. He has already been to court on this, and the judge dismissed the case. (The videotape was shown again.) The refrigerator was moved out while the kitchen floor was being replaced, stated Mr. Czaplewski. He is going to have to hire an attorney for this. He would like $1,200 returned to him for the refrigerator and gate. Everything was cleaned up. Gerry Strathman asked about the sofa and the catpeting. Mr. Czaplewski responded it was cleaned up. Mr. Strathman stated they took videotape that shows carpet present and then took more videotape that shows the carpet gone. Some of the videotape was taken after his tenants removed the items, stated Mr. Czaplewski. Mr. Strathman stated he does not believe the refrigerator was outside for two weeks while the floor was being repaired, nor does he believe the tenants cleaned up the couch or the cazpet. The videotape is taken when they arrive and when they leave. Mr. Czaplewski responded his tenants aze lying to him then. Mr. Czaplewski requested an extension of time for his attorney to handle this issue. To appeal his decision, Mr. Strathman explained, a norice needs to be sent to him by noon on Thursday. Gezry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment because he does not find Mr. Czaplewski's story credible. (Note: Mr. Czaplewski handed in a written statement before leaving the meeting.) � _��-.�; LEGISLATTVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 906 Russell Street (File J9902V) No one appeared representing the property. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 613 Rose Avenue East (File J9904A) No one appeared representing the property. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. 1020 Cartoll Avenue (File J9904A) Gloria Favis, owner, appeazed. Page 5 Guy Willits reported the notice was mailed on May 10, 1999, to removed refuse and fumiture. Pazks and Recreation did the work on May 18 for $295. (A videotape was shown.) Ms. Favis stated the tenant is responsibie for this. There were three people living there, and then there were about 15 people in the house. Since October 1998, Ms. Favis had been telling the tenants to move. The tenants say they would be homeless. Ms. Favis has asked for assistance from crime services to heip the tenants. Crime services suggested she raise the rent. The tenants rely on sociai security. If Ms. Favis filed for eviction in court, she would get nothing. The tenants have no deposit. She has already spent $1,200 fi�ng the inside because the tenants clogged the toilet and there were problems with the ceiling. Ms. Favis told the tenants to leave because she is in trouble with Code Enforcement and they trashed the piace. She will not file chazges against them. She is already paying too much in tases. Gerry Strathman asked when did the tenants move out. Ms. Favis responded May 3. They threw a(I the garbage outside. The carpet has to be replaced. The property has to be painted. She is thinking about foreclosing on the property. Why wasn't it cleaned up when the notice was received, asked Mr. Strathman. Ms. Favis responded she wrote a letter to the Yenant to remove the garbage. They promised they woald do it. (Mr. Willits presented photographs to Mr. Strathman. They were later retumed.) Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the assessment. A lot of trash was removed. The owner is responsible. LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 1068 Ialehart Avenue (File J9902V) Gerry Stratiunan recommended deleting the assessment per Guy Willits. � �s� Page 6 1Zesolution ordering the owner fo remove or repair fhe property at 419 Sherburne Avenue. If the owner fails fo comply wifh the resolution, Code Enforcemenf is ordered fo remove the building. Chuck Votet reported this building has been condemned since March 1998 and has been vacant since that time. Tracy and Chrisfine Sy�vis are the recorded owners. The vacant building fees aze due. Real estaYe t�es aze due in the amount of $3,078.02. The estimated market value is $46,800; estimatad cost to repair, $20,000; cost to demolish, $10,000 to $11,000. All interested parYies have been notified. A. Vue appeared on behalf of his brother Bee Vue, who has a contract for deed on this properiy. Bee Vue wrote a]etter conceming what he intends to do wiYh the property. (A. Vue handed Mr. Strathman a letter from $ee Vue.) The letter says the Perkowitzs aze the first mortgage holders, said Mr. Strathman. Mr Vote] responded they are the fee owners. (A. Vue handed Mr. Strathman a paper entitled Assignment of Mortgage.) Mr. Strathman asked how much time Bee Vue needs to get control of this property. A. Vue responded two weeks. It appears to be secured, said Mr. Strathman. Mr. Votel concurred. Mr. Votel added that in June the City issued two summary abatement notices to clean the yard and cut the grass. Mr. Strathman stated it is in Bee Vue's best interest to take care of the yard. Gerry Strathman recommended laying over to the August 10 Legislative Heazing. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1329 Van Buren Avenue. If t6e owner faits to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove fhe building. Chuck Votel reported this building has been vacant since August 1998. The owner is Stewart Flowers. The Ciry has issued three sutumary abatement notices to cut the grass and secure the property. Vacant building fees are due. The estimated mazket value is $16,500; estimated cost to repair, $45,000, estimated cost to demolish, $6,000 to $7,000. LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF 7-20-99 �' �'- �'s-� Page 7 Dave Alstead, Hamline Midway Area Rehabilitation Cooperation (H-MARC), appeared and stated the house does need to come down. H-MARC is interested in talking with the owners about purchasing the properry with the intent to teaz the house down and build a new one. Jati ne Straue and Dayne Albrecht appeared. Mr. Albrecht staYed the property belongs to his wife's �other who is not able to deal with this properly. There is a program called selective c'.c:: ance, «�hich they applied for last yeaz. This issue has not gone anywhere. Ms. Albrecht stated the house does not wazrazit repair. Mr. Strathman stated it would be his inclination to recommend remove oz repair. The cost of that demolition would be assessed against the properry. An option is to deal with H-MARC, which wants to buy the building. Sally Peterson reported that a yeaz ago the Albrechts applied for selective cleazance. The application was missing certain information such as the address and date. Now, a new application is being done. Ms. Albrecht responded she has not received a new application. Mr. Strathman staTed he would like to see a city siaff person work wiYh the Albrechts aztd bring them to PED. In the meantime, the Albrechts may want to talk with H-MARC. He may have to deal with power of attorney, and he is not awaze of what it takes to achieve, stated Mr. Albrecht. Mr. Votel stated there aze no any immediate issues with this properry. C�erry Strathman recommended laying over to the August IO Legislative Hearing to give the Albrechts additional time to deal with this properry. Hopefully, there wili be a plan worked out by the». T)�e meetino was adjoumed at 11:33 a.m. I711