01-789City of St. Paul � R I G I� � L
RSSOLUTION RATIFYING ASSESSMENT
�
A Yre��. — Fs� aa�ol
Voting
Ward In the matter of the assessment of benefits, cost and expenses for
2 J0104AA (0919) Summary Abatement (Property clean-up)
of property located at 1075 Portland Ave.
�t't�c�`mer"F : {�srczs'tr�cr"�" ae��'�e� .
LAID OVER BY COUNCIL ON 7-25-01 to 8-1-01
LEGISLATIVE HEARING -'_�?—�� �= '��'_''
i S 8- .
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, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the said assessment be and the same is hereby in all respects
ratified.
RBSOLVED FURTHER, That the said assessment be and it is hereby determined
to be payable in One equal installments.
COUNCILPERSON
Yeas Nays
�ert' Benanav
(�bs<-,�� Blakey
+�ostrom
:�C
�E'iarris
�Lantry
�� Reiter
�In Favor
� Against
3 �bS�w�
Adopted by the Council : Date � '� a-O c; \
Certified Passes by Council Secretary
r
Assessment No. SEE BELOW
@ �
To Legislative Hearing Officer - will not be held
Public Aearing Date - 8-1-01
T.M.S./REAL ESTATE DIVISION Date:
ontac[ Person and Phone, um
Roxanna Flink �. 266-8859
� ust be on Council Agenda by:
• us[ be io Councii Research Office
Green Sheet Number: 111531
ATI014ti�Y
:EI DIItECiOR
& hiG2. SVC. DIR.
Y o000 0o F�aay public hearing is set for 8-1-01 "'^Y""�O `� 1 OII�CIL RESEARCH
L# OF SIGNATURE PAGES 1 (CLIP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATURE)
IN REQUESTED:
At Council's request on 7-25-01 to 8-1-Oi the following was laid over for further discussion.
Summary Abate (property clean-up) of property at 1075 Portland Ave. File #J0104AA
PLANN4YG COMSIISSIOH
CML SERVICE CONMISSION
CB COMMITTE£
rGS w4idh Council Objective
lYeighborhoods
A 57AFF 1. Has the persoNfirm ever worked under a con[ract 4or this department? YES NO
A Public Health . Has this person/firm ever been a City employee? YES NO
. Daes this person/frm possess a skill not normally possessed by any Y'ES iC0
A current City employee?
Explain all YES answers on a separate sheet and attach.
YG PROBLEM, ISSOE, OPPORTUNITY (Who, What, When, Where, Why?):
"SEE ORIGINAL GREEN SHEET NUMBER l ll 143"
IF APPROVED:
[F APPROVED:
IF NOT APPROVED:
.L AMOUNT OF TR4ISACTION: $3OG.00 COST/REVENUE BUDGETED (CIRCLE ONE)
�INGSOURCE: ASSCSSIDClltS ODI)' A.CT[VIl'YNUMBER:
tiCIAL INFORMATIOY: (EXPLAIN)
1 property owners will be notified of the uubtic hearin� and charnes.
O 1-�1�
7/26/Ol
1`�oF1�Y�7
CiCy of St. Paul
Real Estate Division
o�.�rg
Dept. of Technology & Management Serv
REPORT OR COMPLETION OF ASS$SSMENT
COUNCIL FILE N0.
File No. SEE BELOW
Assessment No_ SEE BELOW
Voting
Ward In the matter of the assessment of benefits, cost and e�cpenses for
2 J6104AA (0919) Summary Abatement (Property clean-up)
of property located at 1075 Portland Ave_
LAID OVER BY COUNCIL ON 7-25-01 to 8-1-01
LEGISLATIVE HEARING •-•�" ^^� �^ �^°'a
�$ rs-
To the Council of the City of St. Paul
The Valuation and Assessment Engineer hereby reports to the Council the
following as a statement of the expenditures necessarily incurred for and in
connection with the making of the above improvement, viz:
Total construction costs
Valuation and Assessment Services
Administration Charge - Code Enforcement
Re-Check Charge - Code Enforcement
Abatement Service Charge
TOTAL EXPENDITLTRES
Charge To
Net Assessment
$261.06
$
$25.00
$
$20.00
$306.00
$306.00
Said Valuation and Assessment Engineer further reports that he has assessed
and levied the total amount as above ascertained, to-wit: the sum of �upon each
and every Iot, 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 thereon as may be considered
proper. //�� /J
Dated 7 - , ° �l� - p/ �-�� �J �i�.�/": ,
�luation and Assessment Engineer
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REPORT
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LEGISLATIVE HEARING
Date: August 7, 2001
Time: 10:00 am.
Place: Room 330 City Hall
15 West Kellogg Boulevazd
Gerry Strathman
Legislative Hearing Officer
Laid over summary abatement:
30104AA Property cleanup at 1075 Portiand Avenue. (Laid over from 7-24-01)
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends deleting the assessment.
Laid over siunmary abatements:
J0103CC Demolition of building at 381 University Avenue West,
Demolition of building at 387 University Avenue West.
381 University Avenue West
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends approval of the assessment.
387 Universit� Avenue West
Legaslative Hearing Officer recommends approval of the assessment.
Resolutian ordering the owner ta remove or repair the properry at 393 Sidney Street East.
If the owner fails to comply, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building.
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends laying over Yo the September 4, 2001,
Legislative Hearing.
Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 633 Randolph Avenue.
If the owner fails to comply, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building.
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends approval.
MINIJTES OF LEGISLATIVE HEARING
Tuesday, August 7, 2001 Q I ���, 9
Room 330, City Hall
Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer
STAFF PRESENT: Jason Broberg, Code Enforcement; Steve Magner, Code Enforcement
The meeting was called to order at 10:00 a.m.
Laid over summary abste�enh
J0104AA Prope�p cl�nnp at 1075 Portland Avenne. (Laid over from 7-24-01)
The following appeared: Phyliis Bmwn, daughter of deceased owners, 1149 Laurel Avenue, and
Ruth Jones, daughter of deceased owne�s, �EfTS Fortland Avenue.
Ms. Brown stated that her mother passed away March 20, and hez father passed away Apri19.
Her pazents lived at I075 Portland for maay years, and took care of their own personal business
matters. Her mother was in a hospice. Her father had lung cancer surgery and had been sick
during the time of this cleanup. Ms. Brown found out about ttus assessment when she was going
through a lot of their paperwork. She was aware that her father had a lot of excess items on the
deck ouiside the kitchen door. The only thing she is awaze of in the back of the garage was the
car w3�ich she in Gun towed. The family has been preoccupied with the parents' dying process
and was not aware of the assessneat. They have had three estate sales on May 4, 5, 19, and three
garage sales on June 22, 23, 24. The faznily has paid property taxes on time, paid lots of
miscellaneovs outstanding bills, and are still paying burial eacpenses. Ms. Brown is protesting the
$306_ Slae is not awsre of what was actuaily hauled away by the City. She has been hauling lots
of items that have accumulated through her pazents 54 yeazs of marriage in that home.
(A videotape was shown.)
Mr. Straihman stated it looks like the Cify removed wood, debris, and picked up the garbage.
Ms. Jones stated they found the notirx by accident. She did noi find the listed items outside.
Ms. Brawn stated she talked to John Betz (Code Enforcement) and he said the items were hauled
on Mazch 27. Her mother was buried on Mazch 26. The family was besieged with more
important matters at the time of this assessment.
Gerry Strathman deleted the assessment It is clear notice was sent and that the City did the
work. A few weeks be€ore ths owners were to both die, theae is a seriaus question as to if they
were in a pasition to reeognize ttae significance of �ese notic�s and deal wit2e them effectively.
As an act af amderstanding, the assessme� should be deleted.
Laid over summary abatements:
J0103CC Demolifion of building at 381 University Avenue West,
Demolition of building at 387 University Avenue West.
a � -'1 �y
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINLTI'ES FOR AUGUST 7, 2001 Page 2
381 Universitv Avenue West
Steve Magner reported the building has two addresses on the front of it: 381 and 383 University
are one building and 385 and 387 University aze the other building. In March 2001, there was a
fire tl�at originated at 385 University. It engulfed that building and spread to the neighboring
building of 38 i and 383 University. There was a lazge Eller Media sign on the roof of the
building. The sign sfasted to collapse. The Fire Deparnnent requested a contractor pull the sign
down and remove some of the debris so they could put outthe fire.
(Mr. Magner showed a photograph of the building with the sign starting to wllapse.)
Mr. Magner stated he went to the site at 4:30 p.m. The Fire Departme�t ordered the building
razed at the time of the fire. The demolition was completed the next day, and the cost of the
demolition was split between the two properties with the cost of the crane and more rubble at 387
University. There was quite a bit of rubble left on 385 that had to be demolished. That is how
the contractor split the bill.
Choua Yang, 790 Tuscarora Avenue, and Long Her, 381 University Avenue West, appeazed.
Ms. Yang stated they bring business to the University azea, pay taxes, and improved the azea.
They plan on rebuilding there. This assessment is causing them financial hardship.
Mr. Stratiaffi�n stated he imderstands this is a lot of money. It was ordered by the Fue
Department and is cleazly a public nuisance. All the City is doing is recovering the money paid
to the contractor to remove the building. There is no profit in this for the City.
Steve Magner stated his office has been in contact with the insurance company for 385 and 387
University Avenue. They aze making attempts to pay the assessment for that properry. Mr.
Magner's recommendation is that the owner pursues this with fihe insurance company. Primarily,
the ins�ance company will accept tlris as part of the loss, pay it as a bill, and they may go after
the insurance company of the o#her properEy for reimbiasemeat.
Mr. iviagner asked what did the insurance company say about this. Ms. Yang responded they
ha�e not heard back_
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
387 Universitv Avenue West
I1� E[' dee�'.t"� !'� -�[ It' s tF
Gerry Strathman recommends appmval of the assessment.
LEGISLA'ITVE HEARING NIINiJTES FOR AUGUST 7, 2001
6�-��
Page 3
Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 393 Sidney Street East.
If the owner fails to comply, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building.
Steve Magner reported this property was condemned in January 2000. It has been vacant since
2-16-�. 'The curient owner is Claudia Tendrup. There have been five ��*+�mary abatement
notices issued to remove refuse, secure garage and house, cut tall grass, remove lazge tree limb
and firewood. On 6-6-01, an inspectioa afthe huilding was conducted, a list of deficiencies
wluch constitute a nuisance condixion was deveIoped, and pho#ograplvs were taken. An order to
abate a nuisance building was issued on 6-13-Oi with a compliance date of 7-13-01. The
properiy *�*+�a�n� in a condition which comprises a nuisance as defined by the legislative code.
Vacant building fees are due. Real estate taxes aze impaid of $2,970.27. Estimated market value
is $72,700; estimated cost to repair, $80,000; estimated cost to demolish, $8,000 to $9,000. As
of today, a code compliance inspection has not been applied for and a bond has not been posted.
Mr. Magner stated there have been numerous phone calls, e-mails, letters from neighbors that
would like the City to take action on tlus properry. Mr. Magner and another inspector met with a
representative from Luiheran Sooiat Services to go over the building again. A party from a
neighborhood group was there. Mr. Magner was okay going tUrough the building, but the
inspector became ill because of the extensive mold growth in the properry. Humid weather like
today, asthma, and breathing conditions can make it difficult to handle being in the house.
George F. Borer, Sweeney, Borer & Sweeney, representing Lutheran Social Services, appeazed
and stated i.utheran Soeial 5ervices was appointed a year ago as Ms. Tendrup's conservator with
the direciifln to #ake all reasonable efforts ta retum her to her home. Record keeping consisted of
gazbage bags of decades worih of bills, investments, etc., ail of which have not been fully sorted
out. In some of the bags in the house, problems date back to the eazly 1990's. Also, the house is
titled in Ms. Tendrup's father's name. His estate was probated several years ago and the house
was overlooked at that time; therefore, the house was not formally passed from the estate into
Ms. Tendrup's name. She has no finances to return home, has no finances for a bond, and has no
assets. A physician has indicated she wiii not be returning to her home. YesYerday, the home
was si�own to three people, and one person indicate� an offer would be submitted this week. A
neighbor also indicated they will present a purchase. Lutheram Social Services has listed the
property with a Realtor wh4 mdicated he bas a buyer wiio wants to present an offer. Any offer
has to cover the back ta7ies, a�ssesszaemt, etc. There aze two petitions which are needed to sell the
property: i) Reapea ti�e estate. A hearing has been scheduled with no objections, 2) Probate
court �as ta ortler the sell. There is enough evidence that Ms. Tendrup will not return home.
Mr. Borer stated he understands this property is a nuisance to the City, and he witl attempt to sell
it as soon as possible.
Mr. Magner stated the building is a nuisance and �ere are health iss�, but he believes the
building can be rehabilitated. The issue will resolve around the cost of purchasing it and whether
they can put the numbers together. He asked was there another issue. Mr. Borer responded the
buyer will have to pay the assessment plus the court requires two appraisals, which will be $600.
There will not be any fees to Lutheran Social Services nor attorney fees.
o �_'11
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINiJTES FOR AUGUST 7, 2001 Page 4
Mr. Magner stated Lutheran Sociai Services is not looking to make money on this. There have
been previous inquiries from some neighborhood groups. The neighbors ulrimate concern is that
the house be rehabilitated, not necessarily abated or removed.
Mr. Shath�nan asked for a time frame. If the offers do not meet the cost to get rid of the
property, responded Mr. Barer, he does not anticipate bringing the legal motions, other than a
petition to abandon. Assuming an offer comes in, a month is all it would take. There is no
mortgage on the properry. The owner is not on medical assistance; therefore, there is no medical
assistance lien. The tifle is ciear other t6an the probate issue.
Gerry Strathman recommends laying over to the September 4, 20(Il, Legislative Hearing. At that
time, if there is no bona fide sale that has taken place or in process, he will recommend remove
or repair. Mr. Borer responded that is more than fair.
Resolntian ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 633 Randolph Avenue.
If the owner fa�s #o comply, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building.
(Photographs were prese�rted)
(No one appeazed to represent the property.)
Steve Magner stated this properry was condemned July 2000. Ii has been vacant since 8-7-00.
The c�reat ovvner is #he S�,�retary of Veterans Affairs per Ramsey Caurny records, but a Gordon
Anderson is representing himself as the owner. One summary abatement notice was issued to
remove an inoperable vehicle. On 5-30-01, an inspection of the building was conducted, a list of
deficiencies which constitute a nuisance condition was developed, and photographs were taken.
An order to abate a nuisance building was issued on 6-12-01 with a compliance date of 7-12-01.
The properry remains in a condiUon which comprises a nuisance as defined by the legislative
code. "The uacant building fees are paid by Mr. Anderson. Estimated mazket value, $65,900;
estimsied iepairs, $Sil,OUO; estimated cost to demolish, $�,OOQ to $8,000. There there is an issue
of possible illegal occupancy with the property.
Gerry Strathman asked was there any commumcation from the Secretary of Veteran Affairs. Mr.
Magner responderl t�ere i�as i�u � aespanse fzom them.
Mr. Sirae#hu�an stated a Bounie Aaderson is listed as having "equitable title." He asked what that
meaas. A dason Broberg responded there is a contract for deed in the interim period before the
contract is satisfied.
Mr. Strathman asked for the relationship between Bonnie Andeason and Cmrdon Anderson. Mr.
Magner responded he does not know. The first floor is packed to appro�mately four feet offthe
ground. The second floor has a lazge accumulation. Mr. Anderson is a collector and a recluse.
Mr. Strathman asked how the VA (Secretary of Veterans Affairs) became the owner. Mr.
Broberg responded the VA is the contractor. They sold Bonnie Anderson the property on a
. o�-'��°t
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES FOR AUGUST 7, 2001 Page 5
contract for deed. Mr. Magner stated the house was originally sold to an individual on a VA
loan. That individual foreclosed on it by the VA.
Gerry Strathman recommends approval.
The meeting was adjourned at 1038 am.
0
REPORT
LEGISLATIVE HEARING
Date: July 24, 2001
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Place: Room 330 City Hall
15 West Kellogg Boulevazd
Gerry Strathman
Legislative Hearing Officer
l. Laid Over Swiunary Abatements:
J0102CC Demolition of 1317 Arkwright Street.
JOISNOW2 Snow and/or ice removal from 1016 Beech Street
1317 Arkwright Street
Legislative Hearing Officer recomxnends approval of the assessment.
1016 Beech Street
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends deleting the assessment.
�. Laid Over Suminary Abatement:
JOl04A Properry cleanup at 1075 Portland Avenue.
0 � �1(� °�
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends laying over to the August 7, 2001, Legislative
Hearing.
Resolution ardering the owner to remove or repair the properiy at 1183 Arkwrieht Street.
If the owner fails to comply, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building.
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends granting the owner 90 days to remove or repair
the property on condition that the vacant building fee is paid by noon of August 6, 2001.
4. Resolution ardering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1003 Hudson Road. If
the owner fails to comply, Code Bnforcement is ordered to remove the building.
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends approval.
[si�
oi-��'f
To Legislative Hearing Officer - 7-17-01
Public Hearing Date - 7-25-01
T.M.S./REAL ESTATE
ltac[ Person a¢d Phone Num
Roxanna F'link�
on Comcil Agenda by: 6-2,7-OL
ia Council Research O�ce
noon o¢ Friday 6-IS-Ol
DTAL # OF SIGNATUI2E PAGES l
Date: 5/30/Ol Green Sheet Number: 111143
EPAR'I�fEi7TDIRECTOR TfYCOUNCII.
ATIORNEY R"Y CLERK
UDGET DIRECI'OR L`i. & TIGT. SVG DIR
�fAYOR (OR ASJ'ISTAtiT) 1 OUNCII,RFSEARCA
(CLIP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATURE)
'ION REQUESTED:
Setting date of public hearing to approve Summ Abate (property clean-up) during April & May �
2001, Demo of Bldgs. during April & May 2001, Boarding-up of vac, bldgs. during March &
Apri12001 and Towing aband. vehicles during January 2001. File No.'s J0104A, J0103C,
J0103B and J0104V.
.IhIENDAT[ONS: APPROVE (A) OR REJECT (R) � � A � � � � A� � ' .
PLANNPi IG CObIMISSION A STAFF . Has the persod6rm ever worked under a can[rac[ fot this department? YES NO
C[VIL SERVICE COhI�11SSION
CIB COJISIITTEE
rts whidh Councii Objective
Neighborhoods
A PublicHealth
A VacantBldg
Ward 2
Has this persoNfirm ever been a City employee?
Does this persoNfirm poss�s a skill not normally possessed by any
current City employee.'
Explain aR YES answers on a separate sheet and attach.
YES Pi0
YES NO
PROBLEM, ISSUE, OPPORTiJ\`ITY (�Vlio, What, Nhen, Nhere, �Vhy?):
Property owners or renters create a health hazard at various times throughout the City of Saint
Paul when their property is not kept up.
IF APPROVED:
Cost recovery programs to recover expenses for Summary Abatements, Demolition, Boarding-up
and Towing aband. Vehicles. This includes cutting tall 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
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 collected with the property taxes if not
IF NOT APPROVED:
Neighborhoods would be left to deteriorate and property values would decline. Nobody would
take care of their property, especially vacant or rental properties. Rodents, filth, garbage and
trash would accumulate evervwhere. Disease and pests could become a problem.
TALA1fOUNl'OFTR-INSACTION: $ 1($ ,733.44 COST/REVEWEBUDGETED(CIRCLEONE)
SOURCE: ASS8SSI12CRtS OTII)' ACTIVITY NUNIBER:
YES
\L IiYFO&�LITIOY: (EXPLAlh�
173 property owners will be notified of the public hearing and
ot -� �
MINUTES OF THE LEGISLA'ITVE HEARING
Tuesday,July 24, 2001
Room 330 Courthouse
Crerry Stra thman I.egislative Hearing Officer
The meeting was called to order at 10:05 a.m.
STA�' PRESENT: John Betz, Code Enforcement; Roxanna Flink, Reai Estate; Steve Magner,
Code Enforcement; Mike Morehead, Code Enforcement
Laid Over Summary Abatements:
J0102CC Demolition of 1317 Arkwr►_ ght Street
JOISNOW2 Snow and/or ice removal from 1016 Beech Street
1317 Arkwri�ht Str�r
(No one appeazed to represent the property.)
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
1016 Beech Street
(A videot�pe was shown.)
Moira Gaidzanwa, owner, appeazed. Her sidewallc has less snow than the adjacent property. It
looked like it was plowed the previous day and was snowed over in the morning.
John Betz reported that upon receipt of a complaint, a letter was mailed on 1-19-01 to the
property owner at 451 Lynnhnrst Avenue East. An inspection was conducted on 1-24-01. The
inspector noied there was snow and ice built up on the sidewalk. A handwritten notice was sent
to the property owner a# the same address. It was reinspected an 1-31-0i. It read that the snow
and ice remained and the sdewalk was haz�dous.
Ms. Gaidzanwa s#ated she did not receive the notice. Mr. Betz responded the first notice was
generated from the Citizen Service Office. Several notices were sent out from his office for
rental registration, conection notices. None of these have been returned as undeliverable.
Mr. Strathman stated that the City send notices through the U.S. mail system, and that is
considered delivered under the law. Ms. Gaidzanwa responded she wouid not choose to ignore
tlus notice when she responds to all other letters the City sends her. She has someone that takes
caze of the snow. It looks like less than an inch of accumutation. 7ohn Betz responded that City
ordinance reads that snow is to be removed within 24 i�ours.
Mr. Strathman recommends deleting the assessment. Technically, the City has met its burden of
proof. From the videotape, it does not seem a case of serious neglect. The owner assures kum
Yhat she did not receive notice, and he will take her word for it this time.
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF JULY 24, 2001
Laid Over summary Abatement:
J0104A Property cleanup at 1075 Portland Avenue.
(No one appeared to represent the property.)
�� ��
�I � .
Page 2
John Betz reported this was laid over because the owner was out of town due to a tragedy in the
family. She was suppose to calI Mr. Betz imck, but did not do so. He suggested that ttris be laid
over again.
Gerry Strathman laid over to the August 7, 2001, Legislative Hearing.
Resolatioa orderiag the owner to remove or repair the property at 1183 Arkwright Street.
If the owner fails to comply, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building.
(Photograptvs were presented.)
Steve Magner reported this property has been condemned since 12-10-99 and has been vacant
since 5-8-00. There have been four summary abatement notices issued to remove vehicles, cut
tall grass, remove refuse. On 5-9-01, an inspecfion of the buiiding was conducted, a list of
deficiencies which constihrte a nuisance condition was developed, and photographs were taken.
As of today, the property remains in a condition which comprises a nuisance as defined by the
IegisiaEive code. Vacaa# building fees are due. Real estate taYes are paid. Estimated market
value is $52,900, estimated cost to repair, $20,000 to $50,000; cost to demolish, $8,000 to
$9,000. The lazge gap for repair is due to Code EnforcemenYs inability to completely inspect the
property.
Donald Drouin, owner, apgeared and stated he has a signed purchase agreement from the
adjacent properry. Within six momhs, the house will be moved or demolished. He does not
understaad the msh.
Gerry S�ath�an asked about tiie closing date on the purchase agreement. Mr. Drouin responded
no more #haa 180 days from April 25, which may be September 23. He would like an eatension
of time to cover the period of the purchase agreement.
Mr. Strathman asked does the purchase agreement call for the closing to occur by the September
date. Mr. Drouin responded yes.
Mr. Magner stated there is a gas sta#ion called Mazathon Oil adjacent to i 183 .Srkwright Street.
They aze purchasing the property, perlaaps io expaad the operalian there_ Mr. Magner concern is
the time Yimit He 3yas not seen the purci�ase agre�ent and would iike some finali#y with the
whole issue.
Mr. Drouin stated that several meetings ago, he gave whoever was here the name and phone
number of the person in ihe regional real estate office of Mazathon Oil. Mr. Magner responded
that Mr. Drouin could have brought with him a copy of the agreement.
G\ -1 ��{
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF JULY 24, 2001
Page 3
Mike Morehead reported there is a long history with this house. It is considered a trash house.
Over a year ago, Mr. Morehead found 17 cats in the house, storage in the basement up to the
rafters, storage on the main floor shoulder height The house was littered with cat feces. He
talked to someone in the City Attomey's Office to prosecute the owner for failure to pay the
vacant building fee. The case was originally dismissed on assurances that the owner was going
to pay the vacant birilding fee. T7zere is a history here of noncompliance and no follow through.
A couple of weeks ago, tiie porch was packed full of sh� A�Ir. Morehead would like the
following: 1) Follow through on the vacant building fee, 2) A bond posted, 3) a determination as
to whether the house is marketabie. The oniy way to determine that is to get the contents and
animals out No one is supposediy living in there. The property should be emptied to the baze
walls so a prospective purchaser may determine its worth. The house is so permeated with cat
urine that no one will want it. 4) The fuel in the house is dangerous.
Mr. Drouin stated he objects to the demand for a bond. He is a disabled vet living on a fixed
income. He does not have bond funds. There aze no feces in the house. The house is not full of
junk. He tried to get the property cleaned up. As of a year ago May, he could not get specific
criteria of what was required beyond cleaning up the trash in the house. Mr. Morehead saw the
dumpster at the groperty, said Mr. Drouin, so his office Imows the work is being done. They
cannot say he is being noacompliant when he is working on this.
Mr. Strathman asked is Mr. Drouia unable or unwilling Yo post a bond. Mr. Drouin responded he
is unable to post a bond. The money went to rent a dumpster.
Since the prospective buyer is Mazathon oil, stated Mr. Strathman, it seems they have no
intention of occupying this house. He asked what difference it makes if the house is demolished
by the City. Mr. Drouin responded he does not want to pay for the demolition. That is a cost that
the buyer is to incur as per the purchase agreement.
Mr. Strathman stated he would like Yo see the purchase agreement to understand its terms. Mr.
Magner stated if the owner is going tc> go ahead with the purchase agreernent, by the time the
house is demolished and the assessment rarified, it would be in the hands of Mazathon Oil, who
would receive the bill.
Mr. Morehead stated he would like to see Mr. Drouin get the full value of lus property. At the
same time, Mr. Morehead would like to protect neighboring properiy and to have Mr. Drouin
foilow the law. If the City demolishes the building, atl that would be left is a vacant lot. Mr.
Morehead is looking for a solution so that neighbors azen't in any danger, and the house is in
compfiance. Ha wouid like the pumhase ageemeni acczlerat�d.
Mr. Magner stated Iandfills do noi �ept municigal waste asixed in with the construction
landi ti. The property wi11 have #a be cieaned out before the demolition.
Mr. Strathman stated he will recommend approval of the order on condition that the vacant
building fee is paid by August 1. The order will be amended from 15 days to 90 days, which
allows for the transfer of ownership and for the new buyer to demolish the property before the
O\ g
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINLTTES OF JULY 24, 2001
��
City. His decision does not address any immediate ha�zrds there may be to the surrounding
neighbors. It is a tolerable risk. This gives Mr. Drouin opportunity to recover the full value of
his property.
Mr. Morehead suggested an amendment #o Mr. Stathman's decision: bring the interior to the
baze wells in a certain amouut of time and no animaLs in the property. Mr. Strathman responded
he is willing to do the part about animals because this is a vacant building and should not have
any animats in it. He is reluctant to put the burden on the owner to empty this property because
Mr. Strathman is noY sure Mr. Drouin has the finaaces and the wherewitha! to do it.
Mr. Drouin responded he cannot hire a mover until he closes on the properiy and gets a check.
Once the cazpet is removed, there is little damage to the floors. Also, he would like the due date
to be August 3. Sociai security does noi disperse until then. As for the animals, he needs time to
place them. He was told he couid not live in the house, but no one said anything about the
animals. He was told he could take caze of them. There aze about 13. Mr. Morehead stated
there aze too many cats in the building. The ordinance is very cleaz. If the cats aze not gotte by
August i, they will go to Animal Control.
Gerry Strathman recommends granting the owner 90 days to remove or repair the property on
conditioa chat the vacant buiiding fee is paid by noon of August 6, 2001. If the vacant building
fee is not paid by then, the resolution to remove or repair will revert to 15 days.
Resolntion ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1003 Hudson Road. If
the owner fails to compIy, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building.
(No one appearad io represent the property. Photographs were presented.)
Steve Magner skated this building has been vacant since 11-i8-97. Cunent owner is Lois
Harrington. Five summary abatement notices have been issued to remove refuse, secure garage
door, and cut ta11 grass. On 5-10-01, an inspection of the building was conducted, a list of
deficiencies which constitute a nuisance condifion was developed, and photographs were taken.
An order to abate a nuisance building was issued on 5-21-01 with a compliance date of 6-20-01.
As of this date, this properly remains in a condition wluch comprises a nuisance as defined by the
legisiative code. Vacant buiiding fees are due. Real taxes are unpaid in the amount of
$1,55'7.15. Estimated mazket value is $64,9l�; esttmated cost tc� repair, $45,00�; estimated cost
to demolish, $8,OW to $9,000. A code compliance has not been applied for.
Mr. Magner stated he received a phoue c�l from a Don �arson, who claims to be Lois
Hazrington's son. Mr. Lazson at one time filled out the vacant building registration form
indicating he would be the one responsible for rehabilitating the property. He now denies he
filled out the document, but asked for a layover. Mr. Magner refeaed him to Mr. Strathman.
Mr. Strathman stated that Mr. Lazson called Mr. Strathman's secretary ttus morning, indicated he
could noY find his mother, and asked for additional time.
o���
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINLTTES OF JLJLY 24, 2001
Page 5
Mr. Strathman asked about the market value. Mr. Magner responded that amount is too high
based on the condition of the property. He does not believe there is much value listed to the
property. Sometimes, the assessor is not looking that close. That amount also includes land.
Gerry Strathman recommends approvai.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:50 am.
�
City of St. Paul � R I G I� � L
RSSOLUTION RATIFYING ASSESSMENT
�
A Yre��. — Fs� aa�ol
Voting
Ward In the matter of the assessment of benefits, cost and expenses for
2 J0104AA (0919) Summary Abatement (Property clean-up)
of property located at 1075 Portland Ave.
�t't�c�`mer"F : {�srczs'tr�cr"�" ae��'�e� .
LAID OVER BY COUNCIL ON 7-25-01 to 8-1-01
LEGISLATIVE HEARING -'_�?—�� �= '��'_''
i S 8- .
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, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the said assessment be and the same is hereby in all respects
ratified.
RBSOLVED FURTHER, That the said assessment be and it is hereby determined
to be payable in One equal installments.
COUNCILPERSON
Yeas Nays
�ert' Benanav
(�bs<-,�� Blakey
+�ostrom
:�C
�E'iarris
�Lantry
�� Reiter
�In Favor
� Against
3 �bS�w�
Adopted by the Council : Date � '� a-O c; \
Certified Passes by Council Secretary
r
Assessment No. SEE BELOW
@ �
To Legislative Hearing Officer - will not be held
Public Aearing Date - 8-1-01
T.M.S./REAL ESTATE DIVISION Date:
ontac[ Person and Phone, um
Roxanna Flink �. 266-8859
� ust be on Council Agenda by:
• us[ be io Councii Research Office
Green Sheet Number: 111531
ATI014ti�Y
:EI DIItECiOR
& hiG2. SVC. DIR.
Y o000 0o F�aay public hearing is set for 8-1-01 "'^Y""�O `� 1 OII�CIL RESEARCH
L# OF SIGNATURE PAGES 1 (CLIP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATURE)
IN REQUESTED:
At Council's request on 7-25-01 to 8-1-Oi the following was laid over for further discussion.
Summary Abate (property clean-up) of property at 1075 Portland Ave. File #J0104AA
PLANN4YG COMSIISSIOH
CML SERVICE CONMISSION
CB COMMITTE£
rGS w4idh Council Objective
lYeighborhoods
A 57AFF 1. Has the persoNfirm ever worked under a con[ract 4or this department? YES NO
A Public Health . Has this person/firm ever been a City employee? YES NO
. Daes this person/frm possess a skill not normally possessed by any Y'ES iC0
A current City employee?
Explain all YES answers on a separate sheet and attach.
YG PROBLEM, ISSOE, OPPORTUNITY (Who, What, When, Where, Why?):
"SEE ORIGINAL GREEN SHEET NUMBER l ll 143"
IF APPROVED:
[F APPROVED:
IF NOT APPROVED:
.L AMOUNT OF TR4ISACTION: $3OG.00 COST/REVENUE BUDGETED (CIRCLE ONE)
�INGSOURCE: ASSCSSIDClltS ODI)' A.CT[VIl'YNUMBER:
tiCIAL INFORMATIOY: (EXPLAIN)
1 property owners will be notified of the uubtic hearin� and charnes.
O 1-�1�
7/26/Ol
1`�oF1�Y�7
CiCy of St. Paul
Real Estate Division
o�.�rg
Dept. of Technology & Management Serv
REPORT OR COMPLETION OF ASS$SSMENT
COUNCIL FILE N0.
File No. SEE BELOW
Assessment No_ SEE BELOW
Voting
Ward In the matter of the assessment of benefits, cost and e�cpenses for
2 J6104AA (0919) Summary Abatement (Property clean-up)
of property located at 1075 Portland Ave_
LAID OVER BY COUNCIL ON 7-25-01 to 8-1-01
LEGISLATIVE HEARING •-•�" ^^� �^ �^°'a
�$ rs-
To the Council of the City of St. Paul
The Valuation and Assessment Engineer hereby reports to the Council the
following as a statement of the expenditures necessarily incurred for and in
connection with the making of the above improvement, viz:
Total construction costs
Valuation and Assessment Services
Administration Charge - Code Enforcement
Re-Check Charge - Code Enforcement
Abatement Service Charge
TOTAL EXPENDITLTRES
Charge To
Net Assessment
$261.06
$
$25.00
$
$20.00
$306.00
$306.00
Said Valuation and Assessment Engineer further reports that he has assessed
and levied the total amount as above ascertained, to-wit: the sum of �upon each
and every Iot, 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 thereon as may be considered
proper. //�� /J
Dated 7 - , ° �l� - p/ �-�� �J �i�.�/": ,
�luation and Assessment Engineer
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REPORT
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2.
�
LEGISLATIVE HEARING
Date: August 7, 2001
Time: 10:00 am.
Place: Room 330 City Hall
15 West Kellogg Boulevazd
Gerry Strathman
Legislative Hearing Officer
Laid over summary abatement:
30104AA Property cleanup at 1075 Portiand Avenue. (Laid over from 7-24-01)
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends deleting the assessment.
Laid over siunmary abatements:
J0103CC Demolition of building at 381 University Avenue West,
Demolition of building at 387 University Avenue West.
381 University Avenue West
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends approval of the assessment.
387 Universit� Avenue West
Legaslative Hearing Officer recommends approval of the assessment.
Resolutian ordering the owner ta remove or repair the properry at 393 Sidney Street East.
If the owner fails to comply, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building.
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends laying over Yo the September 4, 2001,
Legislative Hearing.
Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 633 Randolph Avenue.
If the owner fails to comply, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building.
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends approval.
MINIJTES OF LEGISLATIVE HEARING
Tuesday, August 7, 2001 Q I ���, 9
Room 330, City Hall
Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer
STAFF PRESENT: Jason Broberg, Code Enforcement; Steve Magner, Code Enforcement
The meeting was called to order at 10:00 a.m.
Laid over summary abste�enh
J0104AA Prope�p cl�nnp at 1075 Portland Avenne. (Laid over from 7-24-01)
The following appeared: Phyliis Bmwn, daughter of deceased owners, 1149 Laurel Avenue, and
Ruth Jones, daughter of deceased owne�s, �EfTS Fortland Avenue.
Ms. Brown stated that her mother passed away March 20, and hez father passed away Apri19.
Her pazents lived at I075 Portland for maay years, and took care of their own personal business
matters. Her mother was in a hospice. Her father had lung cancer surgery and had been sick
during the time of this cleanup. Ms. Brown found out about ttus assessment when she was going
through a lot of their paperwork. She was aware that her father had a lot of excess items on the
deck ouiside the kitchen door. The only thing she is awaze of in the back of the garage was the
car w3�ich she in Gun towed. The family has been preoccupied with the parents' dying process
and was not aware of the assessneat. They have had three estate sales on May 4, 5, 19, and three
garage sales on June 22, 23, 24. The faznily has paid property taxes on time, paid lots of
miscellaneovs outstanding bills, and are still paying burial eacpenses. Ms. Brown is protesting the
$306_ Slae is not awsre of what was actuaily hauled away by the City. She has been hauling lots
of items that have accumulated through her pazents 54 yeazs of marriage in that home.
(A videotape was shown.)
Mr. Straihman stated it looks like the Cify removed wood, debris, and picked up the garbage.
Ms. Jones stated they found the notirx by accident. She did noi find the listed items outside.
Ms. Brawn stated she talked to John Betz (Code Enforcement) and he said the items were hauled
on Mazch 27. Her mother was buried on Mazch 26. The family was besieged with more
important matters at the time of this assessment.
Gerry Strathman deleted the assessment It is clear notice was sent and that the City did the
work. A few weeks be€ore ths owners were to both die, theae is a seriaus question as to if they
were in a pasition to reeognize ttae significance of �ese notic�s and deal wit2e them effectively.
As an act af amderstanding, the assessme� should be deleted.
Laid over summary abatements:
J0103CC Demolifion of building at 381 University Avenue West,
Demolition of building at 387 University Avenue West.
a � -'1 �y
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINLTI'ES FOR AUGUST 7, 2001 Page 2
381 Universitv Avenue West
Steve Magner reported the building has two addresses on the front of it: 381 and 383 University
are one building and 385 and 387 University aze the other building. In March 2001, there was a
fire tl�at originated at 385 University. It engulfed that building and spread to the neighboring
building of 38 i and 383 University. There was a lazge Eller Media sign on the roof of the
building. The sign sfasted to collapse. The Fire Deparnnent requested a contractor pull the sign
down and remove some of the debris so they could put outthe fire.
(Mr. Magner showed a photograph of the building with the sign starting to wllapse.)
Mr. Magner stated he went to the site at 4:30 p.m. The Fire Departme�t ordered the building
razed at the time of the fire. The demolition was completed the next day, and the cost of the
demolition was split between the two properties with the cost of the crane and more rubble at 387
University. There was quite a bit of rubble left on 385 that had to be demolished. That is how
the contractor split the bill.
Choua Yang, 790 Tuscarora Avenue, and Long Her, 381 University Avenue West, appeazed.
Ms. Yang stated they bring business to the University azea, pay taxes, and improved the azea.
They plan on rebuilding there. This assessment is causing them financial hardship.
Mr. Stratiaffi�n stated he imderstands this is a lot of money. It was ordered by the Fue
Department and is cleazly a public nuisance. All the City is doing is recovering the money paid
to the contractor to remove the building. There is no profit in this for the City.
Steve Magner stated his office has been in contact with the insurance company for 385 and 387
University Avenue. They aze making attempts to pay the assessment for that properry. Mr.
Magner's recommendation is that the owner pursues this with fihe insurance company. Primarily,
the ins�ance company will accept tlris as part of the loss, pay it as a bill, and they may go after
the insurance company of the o#her properEy for reimbiasemeat.
Mr. iviagner asked what did the insurance company say about this. Ms. Yang responded they
ha�e not heard back_
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
387 Universitv Avenue West
I1� E[' dee�'.t"� !'� -�[ It' s tF
Gerry Strathman recommends appmval of the assessment.
LEGISLA'ITVE HEARING NIINiJTES FOR AUGUST 7, 2001
6�-��
Page 3
Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 393 Sidney Street East.
If the owner fails to comply, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building.
Steve Magner reported this property was condemned in January 2000. It has been vacant since
2-16-�. 'The curient owner is Claudia Tendrup. There have been five ��*+�mary abatement
notices issued to remove refuse, secure garage and house, cut tall grass, remove lazge tree limb
and firewood. On 6-6-01, an inspectioa afthe huilding was conducted, a list of deficiencies
wluch constitute a nuisance condixion was deveIoped, and pho#ograplvs were taken. An order to
abate a nuisance building was issued on 6-13-Oi with a compliance date of 7-13-01. The
properiy *�*+�a�n� in a condition which comprises a nuisance as defined by the legislative code.
Vacant building fees are due. Real estate taxes aze impaid of $2,970.27. Estimated market value
is $72,700; estimated cost to repair, $80,000; estimated cost to demolish, $8,000 to $9,000. As
of today, a code compliance inspection has not been applied for and a bond has not been posted.
Mr. Magner stated there have been numerous phone calls, e-mails, letters from neighbors that
would like the City to take action on tlus properry. Mr. Magner and another inspector met with a
representative from Luiheran Sooiat Services to go over the building again. A party from a
neighborhood group was there. Mr. Magner was okay going tUrough the building, but the
inspector became ill because of the extensive mold growth in the properry. Humid weather like
today, asthma, and breathing conditions can make it difficult to handle being in the house.
George F. Borer, Sweeney, Borer & Sweeney, representing Lutheran Social Services, appeazed
and stated i.utheran Soeial 5ervices was appointed a year ago as Ms. Tendrup's conservator with
the direciifln to #ake all reasonable efforts ta retum her to her home. Record keeping consisted of
gazbage bags of decades worih of bills, investments, etc., ail of which have not been fully sorted
out. In some of the bags in the house, problems date back to the eazly 1990's. Also, the house is
titled in Ms. Tendrup's father's name. His estate was probated several years ago and the house
was overlooked at that time; therefore, the house was not formally passed from the estate into
Ms. Tendrup's name. She has no finances to return home, has no finances for a bond, and has no
assets. A physician has indicated she wiii not be returning to her home. YesYerday, the home
was si�own to three people, and one person indicate� an offer would be submitted this week. A
neighbor also indicated they will present a purchase. Lutheram Social Services has listed the
property with a Realtor wh4 mdicated he bas a buyer wiio wants to present an offer. Any offer
has to cover the back ta7ies, a�ssesszaemt, etc. There aze two petitions which are needed to sell the
property: i) Reapea ti�e estate. A hearing has been scheduled with no objections, 2) Probate
court �as ta ortler the sell. There is enough evidence that Ms. Tendrup will not return home.
Mr. Borer stated he understands this property is a nuisance to the City, and he witl attempt to sell
it as soon as possible.
Mr. Magner stated the building is a nuisance and �ere are health iss�, but he believes the
building can be rehabilitated. The issue will resolve around the cost of purchasing it and whether
they can put the numbers together. He asked was there another issue. Mr. Borer responded the
buyer will have to pay the assessment plus the court requires two appraisals, which will be $600.
There will not be any fees to Lutheran Social Services nor attorney fees.
o �_'11
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINiJTES FOR AUGUST 7, 2001 Page 4
Mr. Magner stated Lutheran Sociai Services is not looking to make money on this. There have
been previous inquiries from some neighborhood groups. The neighbors ulrimate concern is that
the house be rehabilitated, not necessarily abated or removed.
Mr. Shath�nan asked for a time frame. If the offers do not meet the cost to get rid of the
property, responded Mr. Barer, he does not anticipate bringing the legal motions, other than a
petition to abandon. Assuming an offer comes in, a month is all it would take. There is no
mortgage on the properry. The owner is not on medical assistance; therefore, there is no medical
assistance lien. The tifle is ciear other t6an the probate issue.
Gerry Strathman recommends laying over to the September 4, 20(Il, Legislative Hearing. At that
time, if there is no bona fide sale that has taken place or in process, he will recommend remove
or repair. Mr. Borer responded that is more than fair.
Resolntian ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 633 Randolph Avenue.
If the owner fa�s #o comply, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building.
(Photographs were prese�rted)
(No one appeazed to represent the property.)
Steve Magner stated this properry was condemned July 2000. Ii has been vacant since 8-7-00.
The c�reat ovvner is #he S�,�retary of Veterans Affairs per Ramsey Caurny records, but a Gordon
Anderson is representing himself as the owner. One summary abatement notice was issued to
remove an inoperable vehicle. On 5-30-01, an inspection of the building was conducted, a list of
deficiencies which constitute a nuisance condition was developed, and photographs were taken.
An order to abate a nuisance building was issued on 6-12-01 with a compliance date of 7-12-01.
The properry remains in a condiUon which comprises a nuisance as defined by the legislative
code. "The uacant building fees are paid by Mr. Anderson. Estimated mazket value, $65,900;
estimsied iepairs, $Sil,OUO; estimated cost to demolish, $�,OOQ to $8,000. There there is an issue
of possible illegal occupancy with the property.
Gerry Strathman asked was there any commumcation from the Secretary of Veteran Affairs. Mr.
Magner responderl t�ere i�as i�u � aespanse fzom them.
Mr. Sirae#hu�an stated a Bounie Aaderson is listed as having "equitable title." He asked what that
meaas. A dason Broberg responded there is a contract for deed in the interim period before the
contract is satisfied.
Mr. Strathman asked for the relationship between Bonnie Andeason and Cmrdon Anderson. Mr.
Magner responded he does not know. The first floor is packed to appro�mately four feet offthe
ground. The second floor has a lazge accumulation. Mr. Anderson is a collector and a recluse.
Mr. Strathman asked how the VA (Secretary of Veterans Affairs) became the owner. Mr.
Broberg responded the VA is the contractor. They sold Bonnie Anderson the property on a
. o�-'��°t
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES FOR AUGUST 7, 2001 Page 5
contract for deed. Mr. Magner stated the house was originally sold to an individual on a VA
loan. That individual foreclosed on it by the VA.
Gerry Strathman recommends approval.
The meeting was adjourned at 1038 am.
0
REPORT
LEGISLATIVE HEARING
Date: July 24, 2001
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Place: Room 330 City Hall
15 West Kellogg Boulevazd
Gerry Strathman
Legislative Hearing Officer
l. Laid Over Swiunary Abatements:
J0102CC Demolition of 1317 Arkwright Street.
JOISNOW2 Snow and/or ice removal from 1016 Beech Street
1317 Arkwright Street
Legislative Hearing Officer recomxnends approval of the assessment.
1016 Beech Street
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends deleting the assessment.
�. Laid Over Suminary Abatement:
JOl04A Properry cleanup at 1075 Portland Avenue.
0 � �1(� °�
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends laying over to the August 7, 2001, Legislative
Hearing.
Resolution ardering the owner to remove or repair the properiy at 1183 Arkwrieht Street.
If the owner fails to comply, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building.
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends granting the owner 90 days to remove or repair
the property on condition that the vacant building fee is paid by noon of August 6, 2001.
4. Resolution ardering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1003 Hudson Road. If
the owner fails to comply, Code Bnforcement is ordered to remove the building.
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends approval.
[si�
oi-��'f
To Legislative Hearing Officer - 7-17-01
Public Hearing Date - 7-25-01
T.M.S./REAL ESTATE
ltac[ Person a¢d Phone Num
Roxanna F'link�
on Comcil Agenda by: 6-2,7-OL
ia Council Research O�ce
noon o¢ Friday 6-IS-Ol
DTAL # OF SIGNATUI2E PAGES l
Date: 5/30/Ol Green Sheet Number: 111143
EPAR'I�fEi7TDIRECTOR TfYCOUNCII.
ATIORNEY R"Y CLERK
UDGET DIRECI'OR L`i. & TIGT. SVG DIR
�fAYOR (OR ASJ'ISTAtiT) 1 OUNCII,RFSEARCA
(CLIP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATURE)
'ION REQUESTED:
Setting date of public hearing to approve Summ Abate (property clean-up) during April & May �
2001, Demo of Bldgs. during April & May 2001, Boarding-up of vac, bldgs. during March &
Apri12001 and Towing aband. vehicles during January 2001. File No.'s J0104A, J0103C,
J0103B and J0104V.
.IhIENDAT[ONS: APPROVE (A) OR REJECT (R) � � A � � � � A� � ' .
PLANNPi IG CObIMISSION A STAFF . Has the persod6rm ever worked under a can[rac[ fot this department? YES NO
C[VIL SERVICE COhI�11SSION
CIB COJISIITTEE
rts whidh Councii Objective
Neighborhoods
A PublicHealth
A VacantBldg
Ward 2
Has this persoNfirm ever been a City employee?
Does this persoNfirm poss�s a skill not normally possessed by any
current City employee.'
Explain aR YES answers on a separate sheet and attach.
YES Pi0
YES NO
PROBLEM, ISSUE, OPPORTiJ\`ITY (�Vlio, What, Nhen, Nhere, �Vhy?):
Property owners or renters create a health hazard at various times throughout the City of Saint
Paul when their property is not kept up.
IF APPROVED:
Cost recovery programs to recover expenses for Summary Abatements, Demolition, Boarding-up
and Towing aband. Vehicles. This includes cutting tall 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
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 collected with the property taxes if not
IF NOT APPROVED:
Neighborhoods would be left to deteriorate and property values would decline. Nobody would
take care of their property, especially vacant or rental properties. Rodents, filth, garbage and
trash would accumulate evervwhere. Disease and pests could become a problem.
TALA1fOUNl'OFTR-INSACTION: $ 1($ ,733.44 COST/REVEWEBUDGETED(CIRCLEONE)
SOURCE: ASS8SSI12CRtS OTII)' ACTIVITY NUNIBER:
YES
\L IiYFO&�LITIOY: (EXPLAlh�
173 property owners will be notified of the public hearing and
ot -� �
MINUTES OF THE LEGISLA'ITVE HEARING
Tuesday,July 24, 2001
Room 330 Courthouse
Crerry Stra thman I.egislative Hearing Officer
The meeting was called to order at 10:05 a.m.
STA�' PRESENT: John Betz, Code Enforcement; Roxanna Flink, Reai Estate; Steve Magner,
Code Enforcement; Mike Morehead, Code Enforcement
Laid Over Summary Abatements:
J0102CC Demolition of 1317 Arkwr►_ ght Street
JOISNOW2 Snow and/or ice removal from 1016 Beech Street
1317 Arkwri�ht Str�r
(No one appeazed to represent the property.)
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
1016 Beech Street
(A videot�pe was shown.)
Moira Gaidzanwa, owner, appeazed. Her sidewallc has less snow than the adjacent property. It
looked like it was plowed the previous day and was snowed over in the morning.
John Betz reported that upon receipt of a complaint, a letter was mailed on 1-19-01 to the
property owner at 451 Lynnhnrst Avenue East. An inspection was conducted on 1-24-01. The
inspector noied there was snow and ice built up on the sidewalk. A handwritten notice was sent
to the property owner a# the same address. It was reinspected an 1-31-0i. It read that the snow
and ice remained and the sdewalk was haz�dous.
Ms. Gaidzanwa s#ated she did not receive the notice. Mr. Betz responded the first notice was
generated from the Citizen Service Office. Several notices were sent out from his office for
rental registration, conection notices. None of these have been returned as undeliverable.
Mr. Strathman stated that the City send notices through the U.S. mail system, and that is
considered delivered under the law. Ms. Gaidzanwa responded she wouid not choose to ignore
tlus notice when she responds to all other letters the City sends her. She has someone that takes
caze of the snow. It looks like less than an inch of accumutation. 7ohn Betz responded that City
ordinance reads that snow is to be removed within 24 i�ours.
Mr. Strathman recommends deleting the assessment. Technically, the City has met its burden of
proof. From the videotape, it does not seem a case of serious neglect. The owner assures kum
Yhat she did not receive notice, and he will take her word for it this time.
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF JULY 24, 2001
Laid Over summary Abatement:
J0104A Property cleanup at 1075 Portland Avenue.
(No one appeared to represent the property.)
�� ��
�I � .
Page 2
John Betz reported this was laid over because the owner was out of town due to a tragedy in the
family. She was suppose to calI Mr. Betz imck, but did not do so. He suggested that ttris be laid
over again.
Gerry Strathman laid over to the August 7, 2001, Legislative Hearing.
Resolatioa orderiag the owner to remove or repair the property at 1183 Arkwright Street.
If the owner fails to comply, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building.
(Photograptvs were presented.)
Steve Magner reported this property has been condemned since 12-10-99 and has been vacant
since 5-8-00. There have been four summary abatement notices issued to remove vehicles, cut
tall grass, remove refuse. On 5-9-01, an inspecfion of the buiiding was conducted, a list of
deficiencies which constihrte a nuisance condition was developed, and photographs were taken.
As of today, the property remains in a condition which comprises a nuisance as defined by the
IegisiaEive code. Vacaa# building fees are due. Real estate taYes are paid. Estimated market
value is $52,900, estimated cost to repair, $20,000 to $50,000; cost to demolish, $8,000 to
$9,000. The lazge gap for repair is due to Code EnforcemenYs inability to completely inspect the
property.
Donald Drouin, owner, apgeared and stated he has a signed purchase agreement from the
adjacent properry. Within six momhs, the house will be moved or demolished. He does not
understaad the msh.
Gerry S�ath�an asked about tiie closing date on the purchase agreement. Mr. Drouin responded
no more #haa 180 days from April 25, which may be September 23. He would like an eatension
of time to cover the period of the purchase agreement.
Mr. Strathman asked does the purchase agreement call for the closing to occur by the September
date. Mr. Drouin responded yes.
Mr. Magner stated there is a gas sta#ion called Mazathon Oil adjacent to i 183 .Srkwright Street.
They aze purchasing the property, perlaaps io expaad the operalian there_ Mr. Magner concern is
the time Yimit He 3yas not seen the purci�ase agre�ent and would iike some finali#y with the
whole issue.
Mr. Drouin stated that several meetings ago, he gave whoever was here the name and phone
number of the person in ihe regional real estate office of Mazathon Oil. Mr. Magner responded
that Mr. Drouin could have brought with him a copy of the agreement.
G\ -1 ��{
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF JULY 24, 2001
Page 3
Mike Morehead reported there is a long history with this house. It is considered a trash house.
Over a year ago, Mr. Morehead found 17 cats in the house, storage in the basement up to the
rafters, storage on the main floor shoulder height The house was littered with cat feces. He
talked to someone in the City Attomey's Office to prosecute the owner for failure to pay the
vacant building fee. The case was originally dismissed on assurances that the owner was going
to pay the vacant birilding fee. T7zere is a history here of noncompliance and no follow through.
A couple of weeks ago, tiie porch was packed full of sh� A�Ir. Morehead would like the
following: 1) Follow through on the vacant building fee, 2) A bond posted, 3) a determination as
to whether the house is marketabie. The oniy way to determine that is to get the contents and
animals out No one is supposediy living in there. The property should be emptied to the baze
walls so a prospective purchaser may determine its worth. The house is so permeated with cat
urine that no one will want it. 4) The fuel in the house is dangerous.
Mr. Drouin stated he objects to the demand for a bond. He is a disabled vet living on a fixed
income. He does not have bond funds. There aze no feces in the house. The house is not full of
junk. He tried to get the property cleaned up. As of a year ago May, he could not get specific
criteria of what was required beyond cleaning up the trash in the house. Mr. Morehead saw the
dumpster at the groperty, said Mr. Drouin, so his office Imows the work is being done. They
cannot say he is being noacompliant when he is working on this.
Mr. Strathman asked is Mr. Drouia unable or unwilling Yo post a bond. Mr. Drouin responded he
is unable to post a bond. The money went to rent a dumpster.
Since the prospective buyer is Mazathon oil, stated Mr. Strathman, it seems they have no
intention of occupying this house. He asked what difference it makes if the house is demolished
by the City. Mr. Drouin responded he does not want to pay for the demolition. That is a cost that
the buyer is to incur as per the purchase agreement.
Mr. Strathman stated he would like Yo see the purchase agreement to understand its terms. Mr.
Magner stated if the owner is going tc> go ahead with the purchase agreernent, by the time the
house is demolished and the assessment rarified, it would be in the hands of Mazathon Oil, who
would receive the bill.
Mr. Morehead stated he would like to see Mr. Drouin get the full value of lus property. At the
same time, Mr. Morehead would like to protect neighboring properiy and to have Mr. Drouin
foilow the law. If the City demolishes the building, atl that would be left is a vacant lot. Mr.
Morehead is looking for a solution so that neighbors azen't in any danger, and the house is in
compfiance. Ha wouid like the pumhase ageemeni acczlerat�d.
Mr. Magner stated Iandfills do noi �ept municigal waste asixed in with the construction
landi ti. The property wi11 have #a be cieaned out before the demolition.
Mr. Strathman stated he will recommend approval of the order on condition that the vacant
building fee is paid by August 1. The order will be amended from 15 days to 90 days, which
allows for the transfer of ownership and for the new buyer to demolish the property before the
O\ g
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINLTTES OF JULY 24, 2001
��
City. His decision does not address any immediate ha�zrds there may be to the surrounding
neighbors. It is a tolerable risk. This gives Mr. Drouin opportunity to recover the full value of
his property.
Mr. Morehead suggested an amendment #o Mr. Stathman's decision: bring the interior to the
baze wells in a certain amouut of time and no animaLs in the property. Mr. Strathman responded
he is willing to do the part about animals because this is a vacant building and should not have
any animats in it. He is reluctant to put the burden on the owner to empty this property because
Mr. Strathman is noY sure Mr. Drouin has the finaaces and the wherewitha! to do it.
Mr. Drouin responded he cannot hire a mover until he closes on the properiy and gets a check.
Once the cazpet is removed, there is little damage to the floors. Also, he would like the due date
to be August 3. Sociai security does noi disperse until then. As for the animals, he needs time to
place them. He was told he couid not live in the house, but no one said anything about the
animals. He was told he could take caze of them. There aze about 13. Mr. Morehead stated
there aze too many cats in the building. The ordinance is very cleaz. If the cats aze not gotte by
August i, they will go to Animal Control.
Gerry Strathman recommends granting the owner 90 days to remove or repair the property on
conditioa chat the vacant buiiding fee is paid by noon of August 6, 2001. If the vacant building
fee is not paid by then, the resolution to remove or repair will revert to 15 days.
Resolntion ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1003 Hudson Road. If
the owner fails to compIy, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building.
(No one appearad io represent the property. Photographs were presented.)
Steve Magner skated this building has been vacant since 11-i8-97. Cunent owner is Lois
Harrington. Five summary abatement notices have been issued to remove refuse, secure garage
door, and cut ta11 grass. On 5-10-01, an inspection of the building was conducted, a list of
deficiencies which constitute a nuisance condifion was developed, and photographs were taken.
An order to abate a nuisance building was issued on 5-21-01 with a compliance date of 6-20-01.
As of this date, this properly remains in a condition wluch comprises a nuisance as defined by the
legisiative code. Vacant buiiding fees are due. Real taxes are unpaid in the amount of
$1,55'7.15. Estimated mazket value is $64,9l�; esttmated cost tc� repair, $45,00�; estimated cost
to demolish, $8,OW to $9,000. A code compliance has not been applied for.
Mr. Magner stated he received a phoue c�l from a Don �arson, who claims to be Lois
Hazrington's son. Mr. Lazson at one time filled out the vacant building registration form
indicating he would be the one responsible for rehabilitating the property. He now denies he
filled out the document, but asked for a layover. Mr. Magner refeaed him to Mr. Strathman.
Mr. Strathman stated that Mr. Lazson called Mr. Strathman's secretary ttus morning, indicated he
could noY find his mother, and asked for additional time.
o���
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINLTTES OF JLJLY 24, 2001
Page 5
Mr. Strathman asked about the market value. Mr. Magner responded that amount is too high
based on the condition of the property. He does not believe there is much value listed to the
property. Sometimes, the assessor is not looking that close. That amount also includes land.
Gerry Strathman recommends approvai.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:50 am.
�
City of St. Paul � R I G I� � L
RSSOLUTION RATIFYING ASSESSMENT
�
A Yre��. — Fs� aa�ol
Voting
Ward In the matter of the assessment of benefits, cost and expenses for
2 J0104AA (0919) Summary Abatement (Property clean-up)
of property located at 1075 Portland Ave.
�t't�c�`mer"F : {�srczs'tr�cr"�" ae��'�e� .
LAID OVER BY COUNCIL ON 7-25-01 to 8-1-01
LEGISLATIVE HEARING -'_�?—�� �= '��'_''
i S 8- .
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, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the said assessment be and the same is hereby in all respects
ratified.
RBSOLVED FURTHER, That the said assessment be and it is hereby determined
to be payable in One equal installments.
COUNCILPERSON
Yeas Nays
�ert' Benanav
(�bs<-,�� Blakey
+�ostrom
:�C
�E'iarris
�Lantry
�� Reiter
�In Favor
� Against
3 �bS�w�
Adopted by the Council : Date � '� a-O c; \
Certified Passes by Council Secretary
r
Assessment No. SEE BELOW
@ �
To Legislative Hearing Officer - will not be held
Public Aearing Date - 8-1-01
T.M.S./REAL ESTATE DIVISION Date:
ontac[ Person and Phone, um
Roxanna Flink �. 266-8859
� ust be on Council Agenda by:
• us[ be io Councii Research Office
Green Sheet Number: 111531
ATI014ti�Y
:EI DIItECiOR
& hiG2. SVC. DIR.
Y o000 0o F�aay public hearing is set for 8-1-01 "'^Y""�O `� 1 OII�CIL RESEARCH
L# OF SIGNATURE PAGES 1 (CLIP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATURE)
IN REQUESTED:
At Council's request on 7-25-01 to 8-1-Oi the following was laid over for further discussion.
Summary Abate (property clean-up) of property at 1075 Portland Ave. File #J0104AA
PLANN4YG COMSIISSIOH
CML SERVICE CONMISSION
CB COMMITTE£
rGS w4idh Council Objective
lYeighborhoods
A 57AFF 1. Has the persoNfirm ever worked under a con[ract 4or this department? YES NO
A Public Health . Has this person/firm ever been a City employee? YES NO
. Daes this person/frm possess a skill not normally possessed by any Y'ES iC0
A current City employee?
Explain all YES answers on a separate sheet and attach.
YG PROBLEM, ISSOE, OPPORTUNITY (Who, What, When, Where, Why?):
"SEE ORIGINAL GREEN SHEET NUMBER l ll 143"
IF APPROVED:
[F APPROVED:
IF NOT APPROVED:
.L AMOUNT OF TR4ISACTION: $3OG.00 COST/REVENUE BUDGETED (CIRCLE ONE)
�INGSOURCE: ASSCSSIDClltS ODI)' A.CT[VIl'YNUMBER:
tiCIAL INFORMATIOY: (EXPLAIN)
1 property owners will be notified of the uubtic hearin� and charnes.
O 1-�1�
7/26/Ol
1`�oF1�Y�7
CiCy of St. Paul
Real Estate Division
o�.�rg
Dept. of Technology & Management Serv
REPORT OR COMPLETION OF ASS$SSMENT
COUNCIL FILE N0.
File No. SEE BELOW
Assessment No_ SEE BELOW
Voting
Ward In the matter of the assessment of benefits, cost and e�cpenses for
2 J6104AA (0919) Summary Abatement (Property clean-up)
of property located at 1075 Portland Ave_
LAID OVER BY COUNCIL ON 7-25-01 to 8-1-01
LEGISLATIVE HEARING •-•�" ^^� �^ �^°'a
�$ rs-
To the Council of the City of St. Paul
The Valuation and Assessment Engineer hereby reports to the Council the
following as a statement of the expenditures necessarily incurred for and in
connection with the making of the above improvement, viz:
Total construction costs
Valuation and Assessment Services
Administration Charge - Code Enforcement
Re-Check Charge - Code Enforcement
Abatement Service Charge
TOTAL EXPENDITLTRES
Charge To
Net Assessment
$261.06
$
$25.00
$
$20.00
$306.00
$306.00
Said Valuation and Assessment Engineer further reports that he has assessed
and levied the total amount as above ascertained, to-wit: the sum of �upon each
and every Iot, 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 thereon as may be considered
proper. //�� /J
Dated 7 - , ° �l� - p/ �-�� �J �i�.�/": ,
�luation and Assessment Engineer
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REPORT
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2.
�
LEGISLATIVE HEARING
Date: August 7, 2001
Time: 10:00 am.
Place: Room 330 City Hall
15 West Kellogg Boulevazd
Gerry Strathman
Legislative Hearing Officer
Laid over summary abatement:
30104AA Property cleanup at 1075 Portiand Avenue. (Laid over from 7-24-01)
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends deleting the assessment.
Laid over siunmary abatements:
J0103CC Demolition of building at 381 University Avenue West,
Demolition of building at 387 University Avenue West.
381 University Avenue West
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends approval of the assessment.
387 Universit� Avenue West
Legaslative Hearing Officer recommends approval of the assessment.
Resolutian ordering the owner ta remove or repair the properry at 393 Sidney Street East.
If the owner fails to comply, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building.
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends laying over Yo the September 4, 2001,
Legislative Hearing.
Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 633 Randolph Avenue.
If the owner fails to comply, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building.
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends approval.
MINIJTES OF LEGISLATIVE HEARING
Tuesday, August 7, 2001 Q I ���, 9
Room 330, City Hall
Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer
STAFF PRESENT: Jason Broberg, Code Enforcement; Steve Magner, Code Enforcement
The meeting was called to order at 10:00 a.m.
Laid over summary abste�enh
J0104AA Prope�p cl�nnp at 1075 Portland Avenne. (Laid over from 7-24-01)
The following appeared: Phyliis Bmwn, daughter of deceased owners, 1149 Laurel Avenue, and
Ruth Jones, daughter of deceased owne�s, �EfTS Fortland Avenue.
Ms. Brown stated that her mother passed away March 20, and hez father passed away Apri19.
Her pazents lived at I075 Portland for maay years, and took care of their own personal business
matters. Her mother was in a hospice. Her father had lung cancer surgery and had been sick
during the time of this cleanup. Ms. Brown found out about ttus assessment when she was going
through a lot of their paperwork. She was aware that her father had a lot of excess items on the
deck ouiside the kitchen door. The only thing she is awaze of in the back of the garage was the
car w3�ich she in Gun towed. The family has been preoccupied with the parents' dying process
and was not aware of the assessneat. They have had three estate sales on May 4, 5, 19, and three
garage sales on June 22, 23, 24. The faznily has paid property taxes on time, paid lots of
miscellaneovs outstanding bills, and are still paying burial eacpenses. Ms. Brown is protesting the
$306_ Slae is not awsre of what was actuaily hauled away by the City. She has been hauling lots
of items that have accumulated through her pazents 54 yeazs of marriage in that home.
(A videotape was shown.)
Mr. Straihman stated it looks like the Cify removed wood, debris, and picked up the garbage.
Ms. Jones stated they found the notirx by accident. She did noi find the listed items outside.
Ms. Brawn stated she talked to John Betz (Code Enforcement) and he said the items were hauled
on Mazch 27. Her mother was buried on Mazch 26. The family was besieged with more
important matters at the time of this assessment.
Gerry Strathman deleted the assessment It is clear notice was sent and that the City did the
work. A few weeks be€ore ths owners were to both die, theae is a seriaus question as to if they
were in a pasition to reeognize ttae significance of �ese notic�s and deal wit2e them effectively.
As an act af amderstanding, the assessme� should be deleted.
Laid over summary abatements:
J0103CC Demolifion of building at 381 University Avenue West,
Demolition of building at 387 University Avenue West.
a � -'1 �y
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINLTI'ES FOR AUGUST 7, 2001 Page 2
381 Universitv Avenue West
Steve Magner reported the building has two addresses on the front of it: 381 and 383 University
are one building and 385 and 387 University aze the other building. In March 2001, there was a
fire tl�at originated at 385 University. It engulfed that building and spread to the neighboring
building of 38 i and 383 University. There was a lazge Eller Media sign on the roof of the
building. The sign sfasted to collapse. The Fire Deparnnent requested a contractor pull the sign
down and remove some of the debris so they could put outthe fire.
(Mr. Magner showed a photograph of the building with the sign starting to wllapse.)
Mr. Magner stated he went to the site at 4:30 p.m. The Fire Departme�t ordered the building
razed at the time of the fire. The demolition was completed the next day, and the cost of the
demolition was split between the two properties with the cost of the crane and more rubble at 387
University. There was quite a bit of rubble left on 385 that had to be demolished. That is how
the contractor split the bill.
Choua Yang, 790 Tuscarora Avenue, and Long Her, 381 University Avenue West, appeazed.
Ms. Yang stated they bring business to the University azea, pay taxes, and improved the azea.
They plan on rebuilding there. This assessment is causing them financial hardship.
Mr. Stratiaffi�n stated he imderstands this is a lot of money. It was ordered by the Fue
Department and is cleazly a public nuisance. All the City is doing is recovering the money paid
to the contractor to remove the building. There is no profit in this for the City.
Steve Magner stated his office has been in contact with the insurance company for 385 and 387
University Avenue. They aze making attempts to pay the assessment for that properry. Mr.
Magner's recommendation is that the owner pursues this with fihe insurance company. Primarily,
the ins�ance company will accept tlris as part of the loss, pay it as a bill, and they may go after
the insurance company of the o#her properEy for reimbiasemeat.
Mr. iviagner asked what did the insurance company say about this. Ms. Yang responded they
ha�e not heard back_
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
387 Universitv Avenue West
I1� E[' dee�'.t"� !'� -�[ It' s tF
Gerry Strathman recommends appmval of the assessment.
LEGISLA'ITVE HEARING NIINiJTES FOR AUGUST 7, 2001
6�-��
Page 3
Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 393 Sidney Street East.
If the owner fails to comply, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building.
Steve Magner reported this property was condemned in January 2000. It has been vacant since
2-16-�. 'The curient owner is Claudia Tendrup. There have been five ��*+�mary abatement
notices issued to remove refuse, secure garage and house, cut tall grass, remove lazge tree limb
and firewood. On 6-6-01, an inspectioa afthe huilding was conducted, a list of deficiencies
wluch constitute a nuisance condixion was deveIoped, and pho#ograplvs were taken. An order to
abate a nuisance building was issued on 6-13-Oi with a compliance date of 7-13-01. The
properiy *�*+�a�n� in a condition which comprises a nuisance as defined by the legislative code.
Vacant building fees are due. Real estate taxes aze impaid of $2,970.27. Estimated market value
is $72,700; estimated cost to repair, $80,000; estimated cost to demolish, $8,000 to $9,000. As
of today, a code compliance inspection has not been applied for and a bond has not been posted.
Mr. Magner stated there have been numerous phone calls, e-mails, letters from neighbors that
would like the City to take action on tlus properry. Mr. Magner and another inspector met with a
representative from Luiheran Sooiat Services to go over the building again. A party from a
neighborhood group was there. Mr. Magner was okay going tUrough the building, but the
inspector became ill because of the extensive mold growth in the properry. Humid weather like
today, asthma, and breathing conditions can make it difficult to handle being in the house.
George F. Borer, Sweeney, Borer & Sweeney, representing Lutheran Social Services, appeazed
and stated i.utheran Soeial 5ervices was appointed a year ago as Ms. Tendrup's conservator with
the direciifln to #ake all reasonable efforts ta retum her to her home. Record keeping consisted of
gazbage bags of decades worih of bills, investments, etc., ail of which have not been fully sorted
out. In some of the bags in the house, problems date back to the eazly 1990's. Also, the house is
titled in Ms. Tendrup's father's name. His estate was probated several years ago and the house
was overlooked at that time; therefore, the house was not formally passed from the estate into
Ms. Tendrup's name. She has no finances to return home, has no finances for a bond, and has no
assets. A physician has indicated she wiii not be returning to her home. YesYerday, the home
was si�own to three people, and one person indicate� an offer would be submitted this week. A
neighbor also indicated they will present a purchase. Lutheram Social Services has listed the
property with a Realtor wh4 mdicated he bas a buyer wiio wants to present an offer. Any offer
has to cover the back ta7ies, a�ssesszaemt, etc. There aze two petitions which are needed to sell the
property: i) Reapea ti�e estate. A hearing has been scheduled with no objections, 2) Probate
court �as ta ortler the sell. There is enough evidence that Ms. Tendrup will not return home.
Mr. Borer stated he understands this property is a nuisance to the City, and he witl attempt to sell
it as soon as possible.
Mr. Magner stated the building is a nuisance and �ere are health iss�, but he believes the
building can be rehabilitated. The issue will resolve around the cost of purchasing it and whether
they can put the numbers together. He asked was there another issue. Mr. Borer responded the
buyer will have to pay the assessment plus the court requires two appraisals, which will be $600.
There will not be any fees to Lutheran Social Services nor attorney fees.
o �_'11
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINiJTES FOR AUGUST 7, 2001 Page 4
Mr. Magner stated Lutheran Sociai Services is not looking to make money on this. There have
been previous inquiries from some neighborhood groups. The neighbors ulrimate concern is that
the house be rehabilitated, not necessarily abated or removed.
Mr. Shath�nan asked for a time frame. If the offers do not meet the cost to get rid of the
property, responded Mr. Barer, he does not anticipate bringing the legal motions, other than a
petition to abandon. Assuming an offer comes in, a month is all it would take. There is no
mortgage on the properry. The owner is not on medical assistance; therefore, there is no medical
assistance lien. The tifle is ciear other t6an the probate issue.
Gerry Strathman recommends laying over to the September 4, 20(Il, Legislative Hearing. At that
time, if there is no bona fide sale that has taken place or in process, he will recommend remove
or repair. Mr. Borer responded that is more than fair.
Resolntian ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 633 Randolph Avenue.
If the owner fa�s #o comply, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building.
(Photographs were prese�rted)
(No one appeazed to represent the property.)
Steve Magner stated this properry was condemned July 2000. Ii has been vacant since 8-7-00.
The c�reat ovvner is #he S�,�retary of Veterans Affairs per Ramsey Caurny records, but a Gordon
Anderson is representing himself as the owner. One summary abatement notice was issued to
remove an inoperable vehicle. On 5-30-01, an inspection of the building was conducted, a list of
deficiencies which constitute a nuisance condition was developed, and photographs were taken.
An order to abate a nuisance building was issued on 6-12-01 with a compliance date of 7-12-01.
The properry remains in a condiUon which comprises a nuisance as defined by the legislative
code. "The uacant building fees are paid by Mr. Anderson. Estimated mazket value, $65,900;
estimsied iepairs, $Sil,OUO; estimated cost to demolish, $�,OOQ to $8,000. There there is an issue
of possible illegal occupancy with the property.
Gerry Strathman asked was there any commumcation from the Secretary of Veteran Affairs. Mr.
Magner responderl t�ere i�as i�u � aespanse fzom them.
Mr. Sirae#hu�an stated a Bounie Aaderson is listed as having "equitable title." He asked what that
meaas. A dason Broberg responded there is a contract for deed in the interim period before the
contract is satisfied.
Mr. Strathman asked for the relationship between Bonnie Andeason and Cmrdon Anderson. Mr.
Magner responded he does not know. The first floor is packed to appro�mately four feet offthe
ground. The second floor has a lazge accumulation. Mr. Anderson is a collector and a recluse.
Mr. Strathman asked how the VA (Secretary of Veterans Affairs) became the owner. Mr.
Broberg responded the VA is the contractor. They sold Bonnie Anderson the property on a
. o�-'��°t
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES FOR AUGUST 7, 2001 Page 5
contract for deed. Mr. Magner stated the house was originally sold to an individual on a VA
loan. That individual foreclosed on it by the VA.
Gerry Strathman recommends approval.
The meeting was adjourned at 1038 am.
0
REPORT
LEGISLATIVE HEARING
Date: July 24, 2001
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Place: Room 330 City Hall
15 West Kellogg Boulevazd
Gerry Strathman
Legislative Hearing Officer
l. Laid Over Swiunary Abatements:
J0102CC Demolition of 1317 Arkwright Street.
JOISNOW2 Snow and/or ice removal from 1016 Beech Street
1317 Arkwright Street
Legislative Hearing Officer recomxnends approval of the assessment.
1016 Beech Street
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends deleting the assessment.
�. Laid Over Suminary Abatement:
JOl04A Properry cleanup at 1075 Portland Avenue.
0 � �1(� °�
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends laying over to the August 7, 2001, Legislative
Hearing.
Resolution ardering the owner to remove or repair the properiy at 1183 Arkwrieht Street.
If the owner fails to comply, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building.
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends granting the owner 90 days to remove or repair
the property on condition that the vacant building fee is paid by noon of August 6, 2001.
4. Resolution ardering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1003 Hudson Road. If
the owner fails to comply, Code Bnforcement is ordered to remove the building.
Legislative Hearing Officer recommends approval.
[si�
oi-��'f
To Legislative Hearing Officer - 7-17-01
Public Hearing Date - 7-25-01
T.M.S./REAL ESTATE
ltac[ Person a¢d Phone Num
Roxanna F'link�
on Comcil Agenda by: 6-2,7-OL
ia Council Research O�ce
noon o¢ Friday 6-IS-Ol
DTAL # OF SIGNATUI2E PAGES l
Date: 5/30/Ol Green Sheet Number: 111143
EPAR'I�fEi7TDIRECTOR TfYCOUNCII.
ATIORNEY R"Y CLERK
UDGET DIRECI'OR L`i. & TIGT. SVG DIR
�fAYOR (OR ASJ'ISTAtiT) 1 OUNCII,RFSEARCA
(CLIP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATURE)
'ION REQUESTED:
Setting date of public hearing to approve Summ Abate (property clean-up) during April & May �
2001, Demo of Bldgs. during April & May 2001, Boarding-up of vac, bldgs. during March &
Apri12001 and Towing aband. vehicles during January 2001. File No.'s J0104A, J0103C,
J0103B and J0104V.
.IhIENDAT[ONS: APPROVE (A) OR REJECT (R) � � A � � � � A� � ' .
PLANNPi IG CObIMISSION A STAFF . Has the persod6rm ever worked under a can[rac[ fot this department? YES NO
C[VIL SERVICE COhI�11SSION
CIB COJISIITTEE
rts whidh Councii Objective
Neighborhoods
A PublicHealth
A VacantBldg
Ward 2
Has this persoNfirm ever been a City employee?
Does this persoNfirm poss�s a skill not normally possessed by any
current City employee.'
Explain aR YES answers on a separate sheet and attach.
YES Pi0
YES NO
PROBLEM, ISSUE, OPPORTiJ\`ITY (�Vlio, What, Nhen, Nhere, �Vhy?):
Property owners or renters create a health hazard at various times throughout the City of Saint
Paul when their property is not kept up.
IF APPROVED:
Cost recovery programs to recover expenses for Summary Abatements, Demolition, Boarding-up
and Towing aband. Vehicles. This includes cutting tall 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
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 collected with the property taxes if not
IF NOT APPROVED:
Neighborhoods would be left to deteriorate and property values would decline. Nobody would
take care of their property, especially vacant or rental properties. Rodents, filth, garbage and
trash would accumulate evervwhere. Disease and pests could become a problem.
TALA1fOUNl'OFTR-INSACTION: $ 1($ ,733.44 COST/REVEWEBUDGETED(CIRCLEONE)
SOURCE: ASS8SSI12CRtS OTII)' ACTIVITY NUNIBER:
YES
\L IiYFO&�LITIOY: (EXPLAlh�
173 property owners will be notified of the public hearing and
ot -� �
MINUTES OF THE LEGISLA'ITVE HEARING
Tuesday,July 24, 2001
Room 330 Courthouse
Crerry Stra thman I.egislative Hearing Officer
The meeting was called to order at 10:05 a.m.
STA�' PRESENT: John Betz, Code Enforcement; Roxanna Flink, Reai Estate; Steve Magner,
Code Enforcement; Mike Morehead, Code Enforcement
Laid Over Summary Abatements:
J0102CC Demolition of 1317 Arkwr►_ ght Street
JOISNOW2 Snow and/or ice removal from 1016 Beech Street
1317 Arkwri�ht Str�r
(No one appeazed to represent the property.)
Gerry Strathman recommends approval of the assessment.
1016 Beech Street
(A videot�pe was shown.)
Moira Gaidzanwa, owner, appeazed. Her sidewallc has less snow than the adjacent property. It
looked like it was plowed the previous day and was snowed over in the morning.
John Betz reported that upon receipt of a complaint, a letter was mailed on 1-19-01 to the
property owner at 451 Lynnhnrst Avenue East. An inspection was conducted on 1-24-01. The
inspector noied there was snow and ice built up on the sidewalk. A handwritten notice was sent
to the property owner a# the same address. It was reinspected an 1-31-0i. It read that the snow
and ice remained and the sdewalk was haz�dous.
Ms. Gaidzanwa s#ated she did not receive the notice. Mr. Betz responded the first notice was
generated from the Citizen Service Office. Several notices were sent out from his office for
rental registration, conection notices. None of these have been returned as undeliverable.
Mr. Strathman stated that the City send notices through the U.S. mail system, and that is
considered delivered under the law. Ms. Gaidzanwa responded she wouid not choose to ignore
tlus notice when she responds to all other letters the City sends her. She has someone that takes
caze of the snow. It looks like less than an inch of accumutation. 7ohn Betz responded that City
ordinance reads that snow is to be removed within 24 i�ours.
Mr. Strathman recommends deleting the assessment. Technically, the City has met its burden of
proof. From the videotape, it does not seem a case of serious neglect. The owner assures kum
Yhat she did not receive notice, and he will take her word for it this time.
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF JULY 24, 2001
Laid Over summary Abatement:
J0104A Property cleanup at 1075 Portland Avenue.
(No one appeared to represent the property.)
�� ��
�I � .
Page 2
John Betz reported this was laid over because the owner was out of town due to a tragedy in the
family. She was suppose to calI Mr. Betz imck, but did not do so. He suggested that ttris be laid
over again.
Gerry Strathman laid over to the August 7, 2001, Legislative Hearing.
Resolatioa orderiag the owner to remove or repair the property at 1183 Arkwright Street.
If the owner fails to comply, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building.
(Photograptvs were presented.)
Steve Magner reported this property has been condemned since 12-10-99 and has been vacant
since 5-8-00. There have been four summary abatement notices issued to remove vehicles, cut
tall grass, remove refuse. On 5-9-01, an inspecfion of the buiiding was conducted, a list of
deficiencies which constihrte a nuisance condition was developed, and photographs were taken.
As of today, the property remains in a condition which comprises a nuisance as defined by the
IegisiaEive code. Vacaa# building fees are due. Real estate taYes are paid. Estimated market
value is $52,900, estimated cost to repair, $20,000 to $50,000; cost to demolish, $8,000 to
$9,000. The lazge gap for repair is due to Code EnforcemenYs inability to completely inspect the
property.
Donald Drouin, owner, apgeared and stated he has a signed purchase agreement from the
adjacent properry. Within six momhs, the house will be moved or demolished. He does not
understaad the msh.
Gerry S�ath�an asked about tiie closing date on the purchase agreement. Mr. Drouin responded
no more #haa 180 days from April 25, which may be September 23. He would like an eatension
of time to cover the period of the purchase agreement.
Mr. Strathman asked does the purchase agreement call for the closing to occur by the September
date. Mr. Drouin responded yes.
Mr. Magner stated there is a gas sta#ion called Mazathon Oil adjacent to i 183 .Srkwright Street.
They aze purchasing the property, perlaaps io expaad the operalian there_ Mr. Magner concern is
the time Yimit He 3yas not seen the purci�ase agre�ent and would iike some finali#y with the
whole issue.
Mr. Drouin stated that several meetings ago, he gave whoever was here the name and phone
number of the person in ihe regional real estate office of Mazathon Oil. Mr. Magner responded
that Mr. Drouin could have brought with him a copy of the agreement.
G\ -1 ��{
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF JULY 24, 2001
Page 3
Mike Morehead reported there is a long history with this house. It is considered a trash house.
Over a year ago, Mr. Morehead found 17 cats in the house, storage in the basement up to the
rafters, storage on the main floor shoulder height The house was littered with cat feces. He
talked to someone in the City Attomey's Office to prosecute the owner for failure to pay the
vacant building fee. The case was originally dismissed on assurances that the owner was going
to pay the vacant birilding fee. T7zere is a history here of noncompliance and no follow through.
A couple of weeks ago, tiie porch was packed full of sh� A�Ir. Morehead would like the
following: 1) Follow through on the vacant building fee, 2) A bond posted, 3) a determination as
to whether the house is marketabie. The oniy way to determine that is to get the contents and
animals out No one is supposediy living in there. The property should be emptied to the baze
walls so a prospective purchaser may determine its worth. The house is so permeated with cat
urine that no one will want it. 4) The fuel in the house is dangerous.
Mr. Drouin stated he objects to the demand for a bond. He is a disabled vet living on a fixed
income. He does not have bond funds. There aze no feces in the house. The house is not full of
junk. He tried to get the property cleaned up. As of a year ago May, he could not get specific
criteria of what was required beyond cleaning up the trash in the house. Mr. Morehead saw the
dumpster at the groperty, said Mr. Drouin, so his office Imows the work is being done. They
cannot say he is being noacompliant when he is working on this.
Mr. Strathman asked is Mr. Drouia unable or unwilling Yo post a bond. Mr. Drouin responded he
is unable to post a bond. The money went to rent a dumpster.
Since the prospective buyer is Mazathon oil, stated Mr. Strathman, it seems they have no
intention of occupying this house. He asked what difference it makes if the house is demolished
by the City. Mr. Drouin responded he does not want to pay for the demolition. That is a cost that
the buyer is to incur as per the purchase agreement.
Mr. Strathman stated he would like Yo see the purchase agreement to understand its terms. Mr.
Magner stated if the owner is going tc> go ahead with the purchase agreernent, by the time the
house is demolished and the assessment rarified, it would be in the hands of Mazathon Oil, who
would receive the bill.
Mr. Morehead stated he would like to see Mr. Drouin get the full value of lus property. At the
same time, Mr. Morehead would like to protect neighboring properiy and to have Mr. Drouin
foilow the law. If the City demolishes the building, atl that would be left is a vacant lot. Mr.
Morehead is looking for a solution so that neighbors azen't in any danger, and the house is in
compfiance. Ha wouid like the pumhase ageemeni acczlerat�d.
Mr. Magner stated Iandfills do noi �ept municigal waste asixed in with the construction
landi ti. The property wi11 have #a be cieaned out before the demolition.
Mr. Strathman stated he will recommend approval of the order on condition that the vacant
building fee is paid by August 1. The order will be amended from 15 days to 90 days, which
allows for the transfer of ownership and for the new buyer to demolish the property before the
O\ g
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINLTTES OF JULY 24, 2001
��
City. His decision does not address any immediate ha�zrds there may be to the surrounding
neighbors. It is a tolerable risk. This gives Mr. Drouin opportunity to recover the full value of
his property.
Mr. Morehead suggested an amendment #o Mr. Stathman's decision: bring the interior to the
baze wells in a certain amouut of time and no animaLs in the property. Mr. Strathman responded
he is willing to do the part about animals because this is a vacant building and should not have
any animats in it. He is reluctant to put the burden on the owner to empty this property because
Mr. Strathman is noY sure Mr. Drouin has the finaaces and the wherewitha! to do it.
Mr. Drouin responded he cannot hire a mover until he closes on the properiy and gets a check.
Once the cazpet is removed, there is little damage to the floors. Also, he would like the due date
to be August 3. Sociai security does noi disperse until then. As for the animals, he needs time to
place them. He was told he couid not live in the house, but no one said anything about the
animals. He was told he could take caze of them. There aze about 13. Mr. Morehead stated
there aze too many cats in the building. The ordinance is very cleaz. If the cats aze not gotte by
August i, they will go to Animal Control.
Gerry Strathman recommends granting the owner 90 days to remove or repair the property on
conditioa chat the vacant buiiding fee is paid by noon of August 6, 2001. If the vacant building
fee is not paid by then, the resolution to remove or repair will revert to 15 days.
Resolntion ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 1003 Hudson Road. If
the owner fails to compIy, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building.
(No one appearad io represent the property. Photographs were presented.)
Steve Magner skated this building has been vacant since 11-i8-97. Cunent owner is Lois
Harrington. Five summary abatement notices have been issued to remove refuse, secure garage
door, and cut ta11 grass. On 5-10-01, an inspection of the building was conducted, a list of
deficiencies which constitute a nuisance condifion was developed, and photographs were taken.
An order to abate a nuisance building was issued on 5-21-01 with a compliance date of 6-20-01.
As of this date, this properly remains in a condition wluch comprises a nuisance as defined by the
legisiative code. Vacant buiiding fees are due. Real taxes are unpaid in the amount of
$1,55'7.15. Estimated mazket value is $64,9l�; esttmated cost tc� repair, $45,00�; estimated cost
to demolish, $8,OW to $9,000. A code compliance has not been applied for.
Mr. Magner stated he received a phoue c�l from a Don �arson, who claims to be Lois
Hazrington's son. Mr. Lazson at one time filled out the vacant building registration form
indicating he would be the one responsible for rehabilitating the property. He now denies he
filled out the document, but asked for a layover. Mr. Magner refeaed him to Mr. Strathman.
Mr. Strathman stated that Mr. Lazson called Mr. Strathman's secretary ttus morning, indicated he
could noY find his mother, and asked for additional time.
o���
LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINLTTES OF JLJLY 24, 2001
Page 5
Mr. Strathman asked about the market value. Mr. Magner responded that amount is too high
based on the condition of the property. He does not believe there is much value listed to the
property. Sometimes, the assessor is not looking that close. That amount also includes land.
Gerry Strathman recommends approvai.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:50 am.
�