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01-946I '� ` ? 2 ��i��ti=� City of St_ Paul RESOLIITION RATIFYING ASS$SSMENT FILE By File No. SEE BELOW Assessment No. SEE BELOW Voting Ward � In the matter o£ the assessment of benefits, cost and expenses for �3 J�104AI�A (�9211 Summary Abatement (property clean-up) of property located at 327 Winifred St. East. 4-0�•0♦ LAID OVSR BY COUNCIL ON 4�--?'- TO 9-5-01 LLGISLATIVE HEARING IS 8-21-01 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. RESOLVED Ft7RTH8R, That the said assessment be ancl it is hereby determined to be payable in One equal installments. COUNCILPPsRSON Yeas Nays �enanav P�rssr'�C glakey ✓Bostrom ✓Coleman �/flarr i s ✓Lantry ✓lieiter �In Favor Q Against l� �r �ew\ Adopted by the Council: Date �n a� Certified Passes by Council Secretary r City of St. Paul Real Estate Division Dept. of Technology & Management Serv REPORT OF COMPLBTION OF ASSSSSMSNT COUNCIL FILE NO. File No. SEE BELOW Assessment No. SEE BELOW o � -q�1G Voting Ward In the matter of the assessment of benefits, cost and e�penses for 2 J0104AAA (0921) Summary Abatement (property clean-up) of property located at 327 Winifred St. East. t'-ot-o� LAID OVSR BY COIINCIL ON �a��'* TO 9-5-01 LBGISLATIVS HEARING IS 8-21-01 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 Engineering and Inspection Real Estate Service Fee Process Serving Charge Charge-Code Enforcement Abatement Service Charge TOTAL EXPENDITURES Charge To Net Assessment $403.50 $ $ $ $25.00 $20.00 $448.50 5448.50 Said Valuation and Assessment Engineer further reports that he has assessed and levied the total amount as above ascertained, to-wit: the sum of 5448.50 upon each and every lot, part or parcel of land deemed benefited by the said improvement, and in the case of each lot, part or parcel of land in accordance with the benefits conferred thereon; that the said assessment has been completed, and that hereto attached, identified by the signature of the said Valuation and Assessment Engineer, and made a part hereof, is the said assessment as completed by him, and which is herewith submitted to the Council for such action thereon as may be considered proper. Dated �- 7- o j — l�n ^o ^� a ��,2��/"`- �„2Valuation and Assessment Engineer �y or-9�� b � n m r y m x 3 ro H ro � � C � �n000 �iibbb mnrrr H ii [nvm n mc�c H u � f)3 O n C S 3 b ii n n ,ro� r u �nxK �� n nt�Y nxom n Y3T� ii 6] m m n L�J d] • n � i u n n n 11 II u n II 11 n n +n u m � 11 +hi(t.n i P I I N N O m II O UI lJ . ii . . tn ii o o u� o n o 0 0 , .�w� , o � rowyn>H � E mN �z�z � H£C��-�+ � � z�rza�o nz � � z H 3 K7 � � u � H m�+or � � OOtn b � R7 � �� y H � � L��1 i o n> m 3 �,�1 +�m� � f i N � o W m i � � o � � � � � 1 � E r�ncnc� � � O-• O C 7J i'd � � * K � O � �ro`"�zym � m � m C ttl O � 50 � �sL�fC aY .'ti � H � � y � b m y � � � m�.lv3m�e � H H� � b] z z�v�c � m � o Hz ..�� H [DHHC•] r .b i d] C d] x S ��-+ .. H 7� ciJ i ro � b [•J H � H � b7 fn M C�l � H C'HO Sa � O � en r� � z I H .. 1 � yz n� o m� r � rn o � H � i !n %1 U] i n] � ��n �m�b�o � nnz�x �xK� � �z � '� xoca � � ��y � �' �� . � �� ' � � � � ' � �r� H N N i F7 i OU1F' � ' O O O � � i 000�y 0 0 0 � [�7 i i ' � � �y i �y ��O � o�v YF+W I I . . . I Q I O O (ii � z O O O I H I 000 � �] i O O O i(A i � u � � � �� y � ii �y � n � O u � � � n � mu +a� % i ✓�nmma i � �P II N N o � O W II O(n W � C � 11 • � z � UI II O O Ul � ti] � O II 000 � fA O m N N N i r a 0 a � ro 0 ro Ch H K U � m _ 0 rn 0 0 m 0 b m y H � O N F� 3 z v � m z ti � � �� S b � L] m t� To Legislative Hearing Officer - 8-21-01 Public Hearing Date - 9-5-01 T.M.S./REAL ESTATE DIVISION ;ontact Person and Phoue Nu r: Roganna Flink �� 266-8859 ist be on Council Agenda by: is[ be in Council Resesrch Office noon on Friaay Public He$Tl]tg is 9-5-01. # OF SIGNATURE PAGES REQUESTED: ,RThffi�T DALECTOR ATIORNEY ;Ei DIItECTOR DR (OR ASSISTA[VI) ALI. LOCATIONS FOR Ol�q�f� 1ll582 i CLERK MGT. SVC. DIIL At council's request on �-25-01 to 9-5-01 the following was laid over for further discussion. Summary Abatement (properly clean-up) of property located at 327 Winifred St E. File J0104AAA. YIMF.NDATIOPiS: APPROVE (A) OR RE7ECT (R) ERSOI`7AL SERVICE CONTRACTS MOST ANSWER THE FOLLOWING: PLANNING COMMISSION A STAFF 1. Has the persodfirm ever worked uuder a contract for this department? YES NO CR'II. SERVICE COMMISSION A Public HeaIN . Has this person/firm ever been a City employee? YES NO Cm Co�mll'r[t:e A • 1Mes this persoNfirm possess a sldll not normally possessed by aoy YES NO _ corrent City employee? rts whidh Council Objective Explain all YES a�swers on a separate sheet and attach. Neighborhoods Ward 2 � G.�� r� \1'INGPROBLEM, ISSUE, OPPORTUNI7'1 (Who, Whay When, Where, Why?): Q�i7 O'� Property owners or renters create a health hazard at various times throughout the City of Saint Paul when their nrouertv is not kent uu. IF APPROVED: Cost recovery programs to recover expenses for Summary Abatement. 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 IF APPROVED: sidewalk and cross walks. 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 t�es 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 everywhere. Disease and pests could become a nroblem. AMOUNT OF'I'RANSACTION: $Qt48.SO COST/REVENUE BUDGETED (CII2CLE ONE) csouxcE: Assessments only ncrrvmrNVnssEx: Date: $/']/Ol � Green Sheet Number: �, YES NO fON: (EXPLAIN) owners will be noti�ed of the d�� REPORT Date: August 21, 2001 Time: 10:00 a.m. Place: Room 330 City Hall 15 West Kellogg Boulevazd LEGISLATIVE HEARING Gerry Strathman Legisiative Hearing Officer �/� 1. Laid Over Summary Abatement: y J0104AAA Property Cleanup at 327 Winifred Street Fast ��( (Note: the City Council referred this address back to the Legislative Hearing Officer.) Legislative Hearing Officer recommends approval of the assessment. 2. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 843 Rice Street. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (Laid over from 7-17-01) Legislative Hearing Officer recommends approval. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 60 Rose Avenue East. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Legislative Hearing Officer recommends granting the owner six months to complete the rehabilitation of this properry. 4. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the properry at 63 Atwater Street. If #he owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Legislative Hearing Officer recommends approval. � O1�946 MINUTES OF Tf� LEGISLATIVE HEARING Tuesday, August 21, 2001 Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer Room 330 Courthouse The meeting was called to order at 10:07 am. STAFF PRESENF: Itoxa�a Flink, Reat Estate; Steve Magner, Code Enforcement � Laid Over Summary Abatement: J0104AAA Property Cleanup at 327 Winifred Street East (Note: the City Conncil has referred fLis address back to the Legislative Hearing Officer.) Khala Kim, owner, appeazed. Gerry Strathman asked what was her concem regazding this assessment. Ms. Kim responded she did not haue any concern. Mr. Strathman stated this was a charge for a cleanup at this property. He understands that she called Councilmember Chris Coleman's office and raised an objection to this chazge. Ms. Kim responded she called Nancy Homans (Mr. Coleman's I,egislative Aide) because she missed a date to attend a previous legistative heariug. Mr. Strathman asked did she understand this was an assessment for $448.50 and did she understand what was done. Ms. Kim responded she did not understaud. (A videotape was shown.) Mr. Strathman staied the chazge levied is for the cost of the cleanup. She should have been notified beforehand to do it W�►en iY was not done, a City crew did it. He wiil recommend the assess�.ent be approved, and she will be notified in a few weeks about how to pay the assessment. Ms. Kim asked does she have to pay right now. Mr. Strathman responded Roxanna Flink can explain to her how the payment options work. Gerry Stratluuan recommends approval of the assessment. Resolntion ordering ti�e owaer to remove or repair the property at 843 Rice Street. If the owner faiLs to comply with the resolntion, Code Enforcemeat is ordered to remove the building. (Laid over from 7-17-01) (No one appeared to zepresent the owner.} Gerry Strathman stated he received a letter dated August 20, 2001; from Gina L. Bulloch, Xcel Energy, Director of Corporate Real Estate. Ms. Bulloch wrote that Xcel Energy is continuing to work with the title insurance company to obtain a mazketable title and continuing to work with North End Area Revitalization in execution of a purchase agreement. 01-4k6 LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINiJTES OF AUGUST 21, 2001 page Z T7us matter has been before him for hearings on two previous occasions, stated Mr. Strathman. On both occasions, he recommended continuing the matter in order to allow Xcel Energy to cleaz up tiUe problems and complete the sell to this prospective buyer. This has gone on way too long. Xcel Energy should have been able to clear the tifle and should have been able to close this purchase agreement. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the resolution. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 60 Rose Avenue East If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. The following appeared: David Cobb, owner, Chazles Cox, attorney, 676A Butler Square, Minneapolis. Steve Magner reported this building has been vacant since 2-23-01, after there was a fire at the building. The current owner is David S. Cobb, who purchased the building after the original fire. There has been one summary abatement notice issued to remove refuse and secure the basement window. On 7-9-01, an inspection of the building was conducted and a list of deficiencies which constitute a nuisance condition was developed and photographs were taken. This inspection occurred after a second fire in the beginning of July. An order to abate a nuisance building was issued on 7-11-01 with a compliance date of 7-23-01. The City has had to boazd the building. The vacant building regish�ation fees have been paid. Esrimated market value on the structure is $52,300; estimated mazket value of the land, $9,900; estimated cost to demolish, $8,000 to $9,000. The cost of the repairs aze in question. It will be high due to the damage. There was a code compliance inspection done on the building 7-23-01. The owner posted a$2,000 bond on 7-19-01. Mr. Cax stated that Mr. Cobb is in the business of rehabilitating distressed structures. He has over 20 years experience in the field and has rehabilitated a number of houses within the City. In the last five yeazs, many of those haue been structures with fire damage. He has obtained bids for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing work to be done on the praperiy. He has worked with these contractors in the past. He has not yet obtained a structural engineer for this project because he is waiting to see if he is allowed to repair this structure before money is laid out for a retainer, which is required by the structural engineer. He aiso has a financial package in place for the property. Mortgage has beea agproveci for ihe amaunt of $65,Q�0, which Mr. Cobb believes will cover the cost of the repairs. I�e believes he can have 90% of the necessary work done by the end of November. The balance will be done by February of next year. Last point, Mr. Cobb does intend to install a security system in the properiy while the rehabilitation is being done because of two fires that have been set on the properry. Mr. Strathman asked were the two fires azson. Mr. Cobb responded yes. Mr. Cobb stated he has been in communication with an engineering firm. They will do the structiu�al engineering of the house. They have had prints made up, which will be submitted to the 0 ►-94� LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINiJTES OF AUGUST 21, 2001 Page 3 City after the engineer has added changes as to what he wants done. Mr. Cobb has received bids for plumbing, heatiag, and electricat, which run approximately $6,000 each. He has been approved for a mortgage for the rehabilitation. He has worked with the Cit7 in the past, stated Mr. Cobb. He has been appointed by Mayor Coleman on the Ovemight Shelter Boazd in 1994; he has a letter of endorsement from the chairman of that boazd. He has a letter from Wilder Foundation about the work he has done. He also has a letter from the Community StabiliTation Project. Mr. Strati�man asked what the long term plans are. Mr. Cobb responded to rehabilitate the property and sell it. He purchased it for $12,000. He has with him photographs of previous properties he has rehabilitated. George Stuber, 62 Rose Avenue East, appeazed and stated he lives neact door to tlus property. He called the fire department twice on this properry. T'his properiy has been in his wife's fanuly since the 1950's. It was sold in 1994. It had been in reasonably good condition. He could not get a first mortgage due to the dry rotted floor beams. It was sold on a contract for deed and sold again but they had to take a deep discount. The new buyers did nothing but destroy the building for 6%z yeazs. It burned on 2-1-01 from a faulty space heater. According to Code Enforcement, it was scheduled to be demolished when a new bnyer came along. On 7-2-01, a huge fire burned through the complete house and through the roof. It is time for the house to go, says Mr. Stuber. It does not fit into the azea because it is the only 1870 building out there. Councilmember Jim Reiter said this would make a good vacant lot. Mr. Stuber stated he does not think someone can make this a decent properry with $60,000. Other houses in the area were built in the 1940's and set back from the street. This property is right against the property line. The retaiuing wall was taken down in the last couple of days. (Mr. Stuber submitted photographs for �Ise record.) The foliowsng appeazed: Marie Wadell, 33 Langer Circle, West Saint Paul, and her sister Dorothy Stuber, 62 Rose Avenue East. Ms. Wadell read a statement from Ms. Stuber. Ms. Stuber wrote the property is dangerous, unsound, and not repairable. The walls and ceiling have begun to crack and fall. Stucco has been put on top of old asphalt siding. The basement has lixnestone walls that are cracked and peeling. The floor joists have dry rot. It has been almost seven momhs since the f�st fire and �t much has been done to the properiy. Their property values have decteased. Ms. Wadell stated the Stubers have a lot of damage on their home from 60 Rose. Her concern is that a strict time line is followed. (A copy of the petition plus photographs were submitted for the record.) Michael Switka, 61 Rose Avenue East, appeazed and stated that 60 Rose is a burned out shell. After the second fire, he asked Mr. Magner why the property was not demolished, and Mr. Magner said Mr. Cobb has the right to renovate the properry. However, stated Mr. Switka, Mr. Di-ayy LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF AUGUST 21, 2001 Page 4 Cobb does not live in the neighborhood. He is trying to make a profit after a structure that is beyond salvaging. Aow he can make money on this property is beyond him. Mr. Cobb has owned the pmperly since mid Mazch There had been no improvements made to this property before the second &re. The Stubers have a house that looks im�„a��. Dimng the second fire, it started melting the siding on the Stubers house. Mr. Switka stated this eyesore should be demolished. Tun Mueller,1568 Myrtle Street, appeazed and stated he has been invoived in the building trades for over 40 years, and involved in rehabilitating homes and building new ones for over 30 yeazs. His wife's pazents hied to keep the property up because the property was over 100 yeazs old. The underside of that home had dry rot over 20 yeazs ago. There is an old cistern that is underneath half of the basement. The stucco was installed poorly over the original siding. The house is truly a loss. He cannot believe a man can financially rehabilitate that house correctly, do it safely, take out the burnt wood, put that place together again, and have a good safe home that would be attractive and reasonably complementary to the neighborhood. Clazence Roban, 57 Geranium Avenue East, appeazed and stated he agrees with the other comments from his neighbors. He is concerned about the Stubers that live next door to 60 Rose. Mr. Straihman asked did Mr. Cobb have any comments to make in response. Mr. Cobb responded that he aiso has a petition signed by five neighbors asking the City to allow him to rehabilitate the structure. He just got the petition going yesterday after hearing that Mr. Stuber had a petition. The work done so far is demolition work on the inside and getting rid of the fue damage on the outside. He tore down the porch and back 1/3 of the house, the damaged retaining wall is gone, the roof is off of the house, and he has piating materiat securing the walls of the house to the flooring so that the house is not damaged by wind racldug the frame. He has not had a crew of carpenters redoing the house because he wants the hearing to give him indication that he can rehabilitate before he spends tho�sand of dolflaxs. All wark will be done according to code. A large part of ihe cost of the rehabilitativn is ius labor. He is a licensed contractor and he has done many houses. Mr. Strathman asked about the dry rot and the cistem under the building. Mr. Cobb responded all that will have to be removed during the rehabilitation of the sfructure. Also, this house has historic designation due Yo its age and the front porch detaits. He is eaploring the possibility of putting it on the historic register. Mr. Strathman asked is it in the historic preseavation disirict. Mr. Magner responded it is not Mr. Cobb stated he has a statement from a neighbor that there is a group in the area that wants the house burned down. Upon being asked how the security system will be installed, Mr. Cobb responded the garage electrical system is intact. An electrician will energize the electrical system in the gazage and he will bring one line of power to the house. There wiil be a motion sensor in the house. oi-9�6 LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUT'ES OF AUGUST 21, 2001 Page 5 Mr. Magner read a fire report into the record dated 7-20-01. This report is a supplement to the code compliance report dated 3-5-01. It stipulated what needed to be done. In addition, the owner will have to bring the plumbing, electrical, heating up to mi.,;.�,� ��. If the fire had not bcen put out at the time, the fire departmeat would haue had the building raised immediately at the time of the fire. Based on the fire department's belief and the subsequent inspection of Yhe property, it was deemed that it was not an immediate hazard and not going to fall down; however, it created such a nuisance in the community, it was brought to this forum so the community and the owner could beaz any issues. In Mr. Magner's opinion, to rehabilitate this building is going to be cost prohibitive unless the owner is doing the majority of the work and is willing to consider his sweat equity as his profit out of the property. Mr. Strathman stated Mr. Cobb is a legitimate owner of the property, and has pians to rehabilitate it. Mr. Strathman understands that people may have different opinions about whether something is economically viable; however, he dces not think the City can substitute his judgement and the City Council's judgemem for someone's business judgement. If Mr. Cobb is mistaken in his assessment of the economics of this, he is the one that will beaz the consequence of that mistake. The owner is fully aware of the risks of this enterprise and the challenge before him. It is also clear the property is a disturbance to the neighbors. It will continue to be one because rehabilitafion is not instantaneous. While Mr. Strathman believes that Mr. Cobb needs an oppomuiity to do this, the City has to set a time line for him to accomplish this. Because he has met ail the Iegat requirements--paid the vacant building fee, obtained a code compliance inspec#ion, paid the $2,000 bond which could be forfeited if he does not fulfill his obligations--the City dces not haue any choice but to allow him six months to complete his rehabilitation. As Mr. Cox referenced, if Mr. Cobb is more than 50% done within six months, he can apply for an additional six months. Gerry Stratl�man recommends granting the owner six months to complete the rehabilitation of this ProPertY• Resnlntion ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 63 Atwater Street. If the ovvner #ails to comply, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (No one appeared to represent the property.) Steve Magner reported this property was condemned June 2001 and has been vacant since 6-26-01. The owner is Atwater Investment Company. Two summary abatement notices have been issued to remove refuse, and secure the buet�d'mg. On 7-i-Ol, there was a fire that caused substantial dan�age to the progea2y. Because of tlus fire, an inspection of the building was conducYed on 7-9-QI, a iist of deficiencies which constitute a nuisance condition was developed, and photographs were taken. An order to abate a nuisance building was issued on 7-11-01 with a compliance date of 7-23-01_ Vacant building fees aze due. Real estate taxes aze paid. Estimated mazket value is $43,200 on the structure and $7,500 on the land; es6mated cost to demolish, $8,000 to $9,000. The repairs aze in excess of $100,000. di-RK� LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF AUGUST 21, 2001 Page 6 Mr. Magner received a phone call from Bob Neeser from Atwater Investment Company. His message was he would be at work and cannot attend the meeting. He is waiting to here &om his insurance cflmpany; they will repair the building or tear it down. Mr. Neeser did not leave a phone number. He was served papers personally conceming this legislative hearing and the City Council public hearing. A vacant building notice, order to abate the nuisance, and the summary abatement have been posted on the property, and were still there the other day when the properry was inspected. This has been a problem properiy for a number of years. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the resolution based on the information provided by Code Enforcement, the review of the photographs, and absent any teskimony from the owner. The meeting was adjourned at approximately 11:00 a.m. � To Legistative Hearing Officer - 7-17-01 ��f�//t�/-tt� �/�f��y� T.M.S./REAL ESTATE stact Person aad Phoae Number: Roxanna Flink� 266-8859 be on Counci! Agenda by: be in Council Research OfEice on on Friday 6-27-01 6-15-01 AL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES DIRECIOR (OR ASSISTANT) & bIGT.SVC. DIR. ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNA 'IQN 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 & April 2001 and Towing aband. vehicles during January 2001. File No.'s J0104A, J0103C, J0103B and J0104V. rt�IENDATIONS: APPROVE (A) OR REJECT (R) J� A J �� J � � E �' � PLANNLYG COIDI�II5510,�' A STAFF . Has the person/Fitm ever worked under a contract for Ihis deparimen[? PFS NO CIVIL SERVICE COMAlISSION Cffi CO\ISII7TEE rts whidh Council Objective Neighborhoods A Public Health A VacantBldg Does this person/firm possess a sldll not normally possessed by any current City employee? Ezplain all YES aaswers on a separate sheet and attach. o � -v�t� YES NO YES NO PROBLEM, ISSIJE, OPPOR'PUNITY (�Vho, Wi�at, �Vhen, Where, �Vhy?): Property owners or renters create a health hazard at various times throughout the City of Saint IF APPROVED: Cost recovery programs to recover expenses for Summary Abatements, Demolition, Boarding-up and Towing aband. Vehides. 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 a!1 other items. In winter this includes the removal of snorv and ice from sidewalk IF APPROVED: If Council does not approve these charges, General Fund would be required to pay the assessment. Assessments are payable over i year and coilected with the property taxes if not IF NOT APPROVED: Neighborhoods would be left to deteriorate and property values woutd decline. Nobody would take care of their property, especialty vacant or rentai properties. Rodents, filth, garbage and trash would accumulate everywhere. Disease and pests could become a problem. __ _ TAL AMOIJNT OF TR9NSACTIO.!': $1($ ,733.44 COSTlREVENUE BUDGETED (CIRCLE OYE) SOURCE: ASSCSSITI2IIYS OIII)' ACTIVITYIv'UieIBER: Has this persodfirm ever been a City employee? Date: 5/30/01 � Green Sheet Number: I11143 �1 EP�R'11�SEhT DIRECfOR I'CY COW. CQ., ATTORNEY YES NO 1L INFOR�IATION: (EXPLAI� 173 properfy owners will be notified of the public hearing and I '� ` ? 2 ��i��ti=� City of St_ Paul RESOLIITION RATIFYING ASS$SSMENT FILE By File No. SEE BELOW Assessment No. SEE BELOW Voting Ward � In the matter o£ the assessment of benefits, cost and expenses for �3 J�104AI�A (�9211 Summary Abatement (property clean-up) of property located at 327 Winifred St. East. 4-0�•0♦ LAID OVSR BY COUNCIL ON 4�--?'- TO 9-5-01 LLGISLATIVE HEARING IS 8-21-01 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. RESOLVED Ft7RTH8R, That the said assessment be ancl it is hereby determined to be payable in One equal installments. COUNCILPPsRSON Yeas Nays �enanav P�rssr'�C glakey ✓Bostrom ✓Coleman �/flarr i s ✓Lantry ✓lieiter �In Favor Q Against l� �r �ew\ Adopted by the Council: Date �n a� Certified Passes by Council Secretary r City of St. Paul Real Estate Division Dept. of Technology & Management Serv REPORT OF COMPLBTION OF ASSSSSMSNT COUNCIL FILE NO. File No. SEE BELOW Assessment No. SEE BELOW o � -q�1G Voting Ward In the matter of the assessment of benefits, cost and e�penses for 2 J0104AAA (0921) Summary Abatement (property clean-up) of property located at 327 Winifred St. East. t'-ot-o� LAID OVSR BY COIINCIL ON �a��'* TO 9-5-01 LBGISLATIVS HEARING IS 8-21-01 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 Engineering and Inspection Real Estate Service Fee Process Serving Charge Charge-Code Enforcement Abatement Service Charge TOTAL EXPENDITURES Charge To Net Assessment $403.50 $ $ $ $25.00 $20.00 $448.50 5448.50 Said Valuation and Assessment Engineer further reports that he has assessed and levied the total amount as above ascertained, to-wit: the sum of 5448.50 upon each and every lot, part or parcel of land deemed benefited by the said improvement, and in the case of each lot, part or parcel of land in accordance with the benefits conferred thereon; that the said assessment has been completed, and that hereto attached, identified by the signature of the said Valuation and Assessment Engineer, and made a part hereof, is the said assessment as completed by him, and which is herewith submitted to the Council for such action thereon as may be considered proper. Dated �- 7- o j — l�n ^o ^� a ��,2��/"`- �„2Valuation and Assessment Engineer �y or-9�� b � n m r y m x 3 ro H ro � � C � �n000 �iibbb mnrrr H ii [nvm n mc�c H u � f)3 O n C S 3 b ii n n ,ro� r u �nxK �� n nt�Y nxom n Y3T� ii 6] m m n L�J d] • n � i u n n n 11 II u n II 11 n n +n u m � 11 +hi(t.n i P I I N N O m II O UI lJ . ii . . tn ii o o u� o n o 0 0 , .�w� , o � rowyn>H � E mN �z�z � H£C��-�+ � � z�rza�o nz � � z H 3 K7 � � u � H m�+or � � OOtn b � R7 � �� y H � � L��1 i o n> m 3 �,�1 +�m� � f i N � o W m i � � o � � � � � 1 � E r�ncnc� � � O-• O C 7J i'd � � * K � O � �ro`"�zym � m � m C ttl O � 50 � �sL�fC aY .'ti � H � � y � b m y � � � m�.lv3m�e � H H� � b] z z�v�c � m � o Hz ..�� H [DHHC•] r .b i d] C d] x S ��-+ .. H 7� ciJ i ro � b [•J H � H � b7 fn M C�l � H C'HO Sa � O � en r� � z I H .. 1 � yz n� o m� r � rn o � H � i !n %1 U] i n] � ��n �m�b�o � nnz�x �xK� � �z � '� xoca � � ��y � �' �� . � �� ' � � � � ' � �r� H N N i F7 i OU1F' � ' O O O � � i 000�y 0 0 0 � [�7 i i ' � � �y i �y ��O � o�v YF+W I I . . . I Q I O O (ii � z O O O I H I 000 � �] i O O O i(A i � u � � � �� y � ii �y � n � O u � � � n � mu +a� % i ✓�nmma i � �P II N N o � O W II O(n W � C � 11 • � z � UI II O O Ul � ti] � O II 000 � fA O m N N N i r a 0 a � ro 0 ro Ch H K U � m _ 0 rn 0 0 m 0 b m y H � O N F� 3 z v � m z ti � � �� S b � L] m t� To Legislative Hearing Officer - 8-21-01 Public Hearing Date - 9-5-01 T.M.S./REAL ESTATE DIVISION ;ontact Person and Phoue Nu r: Roganna Flink �� 266-8859 ist be on Council Agenda by: is[ be in Council Resesrch Office noon on Friaay Public He$Tl]tg is 9-5-01. # OF SIGNATURE PAGES REQUESTED: ,RThffi�T DALECTOR ATIORNEY ;Ei DIItECTOR DR (OR ASSISTA[VI) ALI. LOCATIONS FOR Ol�q�f� 1ll582 i CLERK MGT. SVC. DIIL At council's request on �-25-01 to 9-5-01 the following was laid over for further discussion. Summary Abatement (properly clean-up) of property located at 327 Winifred St E. File J0104AAA. YIMF.NDATIOPiS: APPROVE (A) OR RE7ECT (R) ERSOI`7AL SERVICE CONTRACTS MOST ANSWER THE FOLLOWING: PLANNING COMMISSION A STAFF 1. Has the persodfirm ever worked uuder a contract for this department? YES NO CR'II. SERVICE COMMISSION A Public HeaIN . Has this person/firm ever been a City employee? YES NO Cm Co�mll'r[t:e A • 1Mes this persoNfirm possess a sldll not normally possessed by aoy YES NO _ corrent City employee? rts whidh Council Objective Explain all YES a�swers on a separate sheet and attach. Neighborhoods Ward 2 � G.�� r� \1'INGPROBLEM, ISSUE, OPPORTUNI7'1 (Who, Whay When, Where, Why?): Q�i7 O'� Property owners or renters create a health hazard at various times throughout the City of Saint Paul when their nrouertv is not kent uu. IF APPROVED: Cost recovery programs to recover expenses for Summary Abatement. 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 IF APPROVED: sidewalk and cross walks. 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 t�es 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 everywhere. Disease and pests could become a nroblem. AMOUNT OF'I'RANSACTION: $Qt48.SO COST/REVENUE BUDGETED (CII2CLE ONE) csouxcE: Assessments only ncrrvmrNVnssEx: Date: $/']/Ol � Green Sheet Number: �, YES NO fON: (EXPLAIN) owners will be noti�ed of the d�� REPORT Date: August 21, 2001 Time: 10:00 a.m. Place: Room 330 City Hall 15 West Kellogg Boulevazd LEGISLATIVE HEARING Gerry Strathman Legisiative Hearing Officer �/� 1. Laid Over Summary Abatement: y J0104AAA Property Cleanup at 327 Winifred Street Fast ��( (Note: the City Council referred this address back to the Legislative Hearing Officer.) Legislative Hearing Officer recommends approval of the assessment. 2. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 843 Rice Street. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (Laid over from 7-17-01) Legislative Hearing Officer recommends approval. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 60 Rose Avenue East. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Legislative Hearing Officer recommends granting the owner six months to complete the rehabilitation of this properry. 4. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the properry at 63 Atwater Street. If #he owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Legislative Hearing Officer recommends approval. � O1�946 MINUTES OF Tf� LEGISLATIVE HEARING Tuesday, August 21, 2001 Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer Room 330 Courthouse The meeting was called to order at 10:07 am. STAFF PRESENF: Itoxa�a Flink, Reat Estate; Steve Magner, Code Enforcement � Laid Over Summary Abatement: J0104AAA Property Cleanup at 327 Winifred Street East (Note: the City Conncil has referred fLis address back to the Legislative Hearing Officer.) Khala Kim, owner, appeazed. Gerry Strathman asked what was her concem regazding this assessment. Ms. Kim responded she did not haue any concern. Mr. Strathman stated this was a charge for a cleanup at this property. He understands that she called Councilmember Chris Coleman's office and raised an objection to this chazge. Ms. Kim responded she called Nancy Homans (Mr. Coleman's I,egislative Aide) because she missed a date to attend a previous legistative heariug. Mr. Strathman asked did she understand this was an assessment for $448.50 and did she understand what was done. Ms. Kim responded she did not understaud. (A videotape was shown.) Mr. Strathman staied the chazge levied is for the cost of the cleanup. She should have been notified beforehand to do it W�►en iY was not done, a City crew did it. He wiil recommend the assess�.ent be approved, and she will be notified in a few weeks about how to pay the assessment. Ms. Kim asked does she have to pay right now. Mr. Strathman responded Roxanna Flink can explain to her how the payment options work. Gerry Stratluuan recommends approval of the assessment. Resolntion ordering ti�e owaer to remove or repair the property at 843 Rice Street. If the owner faiLs to comply with the resolntion, Code Enforcemeat is ordered to remove the building. (Laid over from 7-17-01) (No one appeared to zepresent the owner.} Gerry Strathman stated he received a letter dated August 20, 2001; from Gina L. Bulloch, Xcel Energy, Director of Corporate Real Estate. Ms. Bulloch wrote that Xcel Energy is continuing to work with the title insurance company to obtain a mazketable title and continuing to work with North End Area Revitalization in execution of a purchase agreement. 01-4k6 LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINiJTES OF AUGUST 21, 2001 page Z T7us matter has been before him for hearings on two previous occasions, stated Mr. Strathman. On both occasions, he recommended continuing the matter in order to allow Xcel Energy to cleaz up tiUe problems and complete the sell to this prospective buyer. This has gone on way too long. Xcel Energy should have been able to clear the tifle and should have been able to close this purchase agreement. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the resolution. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 60 Rose Avenue East If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. The following appeared: David Cobb, owner, Chazles Cox, attorney, 676A Butler Square, Minneapolis. Steve Magner reported this building has been vacant since 2-23-01, after there was a fire at the building. The current owner is David S. Cobb, who purchased the building after the original fire. There has been one summary abatement notice issued to remove refuse and secure the basement window. On 7-9-01, an inspection of the building was conducted and a list of deficiencies which constitute a nuisance condition was developed and photographs were taken. This inspection occurred after a second fire in the beginning of July. An order to abate a nuisance building was issued on 7-11-01 with a compliance date of 7-23-01. The City has had to boazd the building. The vacant building regish�ation fees have been paid. Esrimated market value on the structure is $52,300; estimated mazket value of the land, $9,900; estimated cost to demolish, $8,000 to $9,000. The cost of the repairs aze in question. It will be high due to the damage. There was a code compliance inspection done on the building 7-23-01. The owner posted a$2,000 bond on 7-19-01. Mr. Cax stated that Mr. Cobb is in the business of rehabilitating distressed structures. He has over 20 years experience in the field and has rehabilitated a number of houses within the City. In the last five yeazs, many of those haue been structures with fire damage. He has obtained bids for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing work to be done on the praperiy. He has worked with these contractors in the past. He has not yet obtained a structural engineer for this project because he is waiting to see if he is allowed to repair this structure before money is laid out for a retainer, which is required by the structural engineer. He aiso has a financial package in place for the property. Mortgage has beea agproveci for ihe amaunt of $65,Q�0, which Mr. Cobb believes will cover the cost of the repairs. I�e believes he can have 90% of the necessary work done by the end of November. The balance will be done by February of next year. Last point, Mr. Cobb does intend to install a security system in the properiy while the rehabilitation is being done because of two fires that have been set on the properry. Mr. Strathman asked were the two fires azson. Mr. Cobb responded yes. Mr. Cobb stated he has been in communication with an engineering firm. They will do the structiu�al engineering of the house. They have had prints made up, which will be submitted to the 0 ►-94� LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINiJTES OF AUGUST 21, 2001 Page 3 City after the engineer has added changes as to what he wants done. Mr. Cobb has received bids for plumbing, heatiag, and electricat, which run approximately $6,000 each. He has been approved for a mortgage for the rehabilitation. He has worked with the Cit7 in the past, stated Mr. Cobb. He has been appointed by Mayor Coleman on the Ovemight Shelter Boazd in 1994; he has a letter of endorsement from the chairman of that boazd. He has a letter from Wilder Foundation about the work he has done. He also has a letter from the Community StabiliTation Project. Mr. Strati�man asked what the long term plans are. Mr. Cobb responded to rehabilitate the property and sell it. He purchased it for $12,000. He has with him photographs of previous properties he has rehabilitated. George Stuber, 62 Rose Avenue East, appeazed and stated he lives neact door to tlus property. He called the fire department twice on this properry. T'his properiy has been in his wife's fanuly since the 1950's. It was sold in 1994. It had been in reasonably good condition. He could not get a first mortgage due to the dry rotted floor beams. It was sold on a contract for deed and sold again but they had to take a deep discount. The new buyers did nothing but destroy the building for 6%z yeazs. It burned on 2-1-01 from a faulty space heater. According to Code Enforcement, it was scheduled to be demolished when a new bnyer came along. On 7-2-01, a huge fire burned through the complete house and through the roof. It is time for the house to go, says Mr. Stuber. It does not fit into the azea because it is the only 1870 building out there. Councilmember Jim Reiter said this would make a good vacant lot. Mr. Stuber stated he does not think someone can make this a decent properry with $60,000. Other houses in the area were built in the 1940's and set back from the street. This property is right against the property line. The retaiuing wall was taken down in the last couple of days. (Mr. Stuber submitted photographs for �Ise record.) The foliowsng appeazed: Marie Wadell, 33 Langer Circle, West Saint Paul, and her sister Dorothy Stuber, 62 Rose Avenue East. Ms. Wadell read a statement from Ms. Stuber. Ms. Stuber wrote the property is dangerous, unsound, and not repairable. The walls and ceiling have begun to crack and fall. Stucco has been put on top of old asphalt siding. The basement has lixnestone walls that are cracked and peeling. The floor joists have dry rot. It has been almost seven momhs since the f�st fire and �t much has been done to the properiy. Their property values have decteased. Ms. Wadell stated the Stubers have a lot of damage on their home from 60 Rose. Her concern is that a strict time line is followed. (A copy of the petition plus photographs were submitted for the record.) Michael Switka, 61 Rose Avenue East, appeazed and stated that 60 Rose is a burned out shell. After the second fire, he asked Mr. Magner why the property was not demolished, and Mr. Magner said Mr. Cobb has the right to renovate the properry. However, stated Mr. Switka, Mr. Di-ayy LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF AUGUST 21, 2001 Page 4 Cobb does not live in the neighborhood. He is trying to make a profit after a structure that is beyond salvaging. Aow he can make money on this property is beyond him. Mr. Cobb has owned the pmperly since mid Mazch There had been no improvements made to this property before the second &re. The Stubers have a house that looks im�„a��. Dimng the second fire, it started melting the siding on the Stubers house. Mr. Switka stated this eyesore should be demolished. Tun Mueller,1568 Myrtle Street, appeazed and stated he has been invoived in the building trades for over 40 years, and involved in rehabilitating homes and building new ones for over 30 yeazs. His wife's pazents hied to keep the property up because the property was over 100 yeazs old. The underside of that home had dry rot over 20 yeazs ago. There is an old cistern that is underneath half of the basement. The stucco was installed poorly over the original siding. The house is truly a loss. He cannot believe a man can financially rehabilitate that house correctly, do it safely, take out the burnt wood, put that place together again, and have a good safe home that would be attractive and reasonably complementary to the neighborhood. Clazence Roban, 57 Geranium Avenue East, appeazed and stated he agrees with the other comments from his neighbors. He is concerned about the Stubers that live next door to 60 Rose. Mr. Straihman asked did Mr. Cobb have any comments to make in response. Mr. Cobb responded that he aiso has a petition signed by five neighbors asking the City to allow him to rehabilitate the structure. He just got the petition going yesterday after hearing that Mr. Stuber had a petition. The work done so far is demolition work on the inside and getting rid of the fue damage on the outside. He tore down the porch and back 1/3 of the house, the damaged retaining wall is gone, the roof is off of the house, and he has piating materiat securing the walls of the house to the flooring so that the house is not damaged by wind racldug the frame. He has not had a crew of carpenters redoing the house because he wants the hearing to give him indication that he can rehabilitate before he spends tho�sand of dolflaxs. All wark will be done according to code. A large part of ihe cost of the rehabilitativn is ius labor. He is a licensed contractor and he has done many houses. Mr. Strathman asked about the dry rot and the cistem under the building. Mr. Cobb responded all that will have to be removed during the rehabilitation of the sfructure. Also, this house has historic designation due Yo its age and the front porch detaits. He is eaploring the possibility of putting it on the historic register. Mr. Strathman asked is it in the historic preseavation disirict. Mr. Magner responded it is not Mr. Cobb stated he has a statement from a neighbor that there is a group in the area that wants the house burned down. Upon being asked how the security system will be installed, Mr. Cobb responded the garage electrical system is intact. An electrician will energize the electrical system in the gazage and he will bring one line of power to the house. There wiil be a motion sensor in the house. oi-9�6 LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUT'ES OF AUGUST 21, 2001 Page 5 Mr. Magner read a fire report into the record dated 7-20-01. This report is a supplement to the code compliance report dated 3-5-01. It stipulated what needed to be done. In addition, the owner will have to bring the plumbing, electrical, heating up to mi.,;.�,� ��. If the fire had not bcen put out at the time, the fire departmeat would haue had the building raised immediately at the time of the fire. Based on the fire department's belief and the subsequent inspection of Yhe property, it was deemed that it was not an immediate hazard and not going to fall down; however, it created such a nuisance in the community, it was brought to this forum so the community and the owner could beaz any issues. In Mr. Magner's opinion, to rehabilitate this building is going to be cost prohibitive unless the owner is doing the majority of the work and is willing to consider his sweat equity as his profit out of the property. Mr. Strathman stated Mr. Cobb is a legitimate owner of the property, and has pians to rehabilitate it. Mr. Strathman understands that people may have different opinions about whether something is economically viable; however, he dces not think the City can substitute his judgement and the City Council's judgemem for someone's business judgement. If Mr. Cobb is mistaken in his assessment of the economics of this, he is the one that will beaz the consequence of that mistake. The owner is fully aware of the risks of this enterprise and the challenge before him. It is also clear the property is a disturbance to the neighbors. It will continue to be one because rehabilitafion is not instantaneous. While Mr. Strathman believes that Mr. Cobb needs an oppomuiity to do this, the City has to set a time line for him to accomplish this. Because he has met ail the Iegat requirements--paid the vacant building fee, obtained a code compliance inspec#ion, paid the $2,000 bond which could be forfeited if he does not fulfill his obligations--the City dces not haue any choice but to allow him six months to complete his rehabilitation. As Mr. Cox referenced, if Mr. Cobb is more than 50% done within six months, he can apply for an additional six months. Gerry Stratl�man recommends granting the owner six months to complete the rehabilitation of this ProPertY• Resnlntion ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 63 Atwater Street. If the ovvner #ails to comply, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (No one appeared to represent the property.) Steve Magner reported this property was condemned June 2001 and has been vacant since 6-26-01. The owner is Atwater Investment Company. Two summary abatement notices have been issued to remove refuse, and secure the buet�d'mg. On 7-i-Ol, there was a fire that caused substantial dan�age to the progea2y. Because of tlus fire, an inspection of the building was conducYed on 7-9-QI, a iist of deficiencies which constitute a nuisance condition was developed, and photographs were taken. An order to abate a nuisance building was issued on 7-11-01 with a compliance date of 7-23-01_ Vacant building fees aze due. Real estate taxes aze paid. Estimated mazket value is $43,200 on the structure and $7,500 on the land; es6mated cost to demolish, $8,000 to $9,000. The repairs aze in excess of $100,000. di-RK� LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF AUGUST 21, 2001 Page 6 Mr. Magner received a phone call from Bob Neeser from Atwater Investment Company. His message was he would be at work and cannot attend the meeting. He is waiting to here &om his insurance cflmpany; they will repair the building or tear it down. Mr. Neeser did not leave a phone number. He was served papers personally conceming this legislative hearing and the City Council public hearing. A vacant building notice, order to abate the nuisance, and the summary abatement have been posted on the property, and were still there the other day when the properry was inspected. This has been a problem properiy for a number of years. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the resolution based on the information provided by Code Enforcement, the review of the photographs, and absent any teskimony from the owner. The meeting was adjourned at approximately 11:00 a.m. � To Legistative Hearing Officer - 7-17-01 ��f�//t�/-tt� �/�f��y� T.M.S./REAL ESTATE stact Person aad Phoae Number: Roxanna Flink� 266-8859 be on Counci! Agenda by: be in Council Research OfEice on on Friday 6-27-01 6-15-01 AL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES DIRECIOR (OR ASSISTANT) & bIGT.SVC. DIR. ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNA 'IQN 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 & April 2001 and Towing aband. vehicles during January 2001. File No.'s J0104A, J0103C, J0103B and J0104V. rt�IENDATIONS: APPROVE (A) OR REJECT (R) J� A J �� J � � E �' � PLANNLYG COIDI�II5510,�' A STAFF . Has the person/Fitm ever worked under a contract for Ihis deparimen[? PFS NO CIVIL SERVICE COMAlISSION Cffi CO\ISII7TEE rts whidh Council Objective Neighborhoods A Public Health A VacantBldg Does this person/firm possess a sldll not normally possessed by any current City employee? Ezplain all YES aaswers on a separate sheet and attach. o � -v�t� YES NO YES NO PROBLEM, ISSIJE, OPPOR'PUNITY (�Vho, Wi�at, �Vhen, Where, �Vhy?): Property owners or renters create a health hazard at various times throughout the City of Saint IF APPROVED: Cost recovery programs to recover expenses for Summary Abatements, Demolition, Boarding-up and Towing aband. Vehides. 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 a!1 other items. In winter this includes the removal of snorv and ice from sidewalk IF APPROVED: If Council does not approve these charges, General Fund would be required to pay the assessment. Assessments are payable over i year and coilected with the property taxes if not IF NOT APPROVED: Neighborhoods would be left to deteriorate and property values woutd decline. Nobody would take care of their property, especialty vacant or rentai properties. Rodents, filth, garbage and trash would accumulate everywhere. Disease and pests could become a problem. __ _ TAL AMOIJNT OF TR9NSACTIO.!': $1($ ,733.44 COSTlREVENUE BUDGETED (CIRCLE OYE) SOURCE: ASSCSSITI2IIYS OIII)' ACTIVITYIv'UieIBER: Has this persodfirm ever been a City employee? Date: 5/30/01 � Green Sheet Number: I11143 �1 EP�R'11�SEhT DIRECfOR I'CY COW. CQ., ATTORNEY YES NO 1L INFOR�IATION: (EXPLAI� 173 properfy owners will be notified of the public hearing and I '� ` ? 2 ��i��ti=� City of St_ Paul RESOLIITION RATIFYING ASS$SSMENT FILE By File No. SEE BELOW Assessment No. SEE BELOW Voting Ward � In the matter o£ the assessment of benefits, cost and expenses for �3 J�104AI�A (�9211 Summary Abatement (property clean-up) of property located at 327 Winifred St. East. 4-0�•0♦ LAID OVSR BY COUNCIL ON 4�--?'- TO 9-5-01 LLGISLATIVE HEARING IS 8-21-01 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. RESOLVED Ft7RTH8R, That the said assessment be ancl it is hereby determined to be payable in One equal installments. COUNCILPPsRSON Yeas Nays �enanav P�rssr'�C glakey ✓Bostrom ✓Coleman �/flarr i s ✓Lantry ✓lieiter �In Favor Q Against l� �r �ew\ Adopted by the Council: Date �n a� Certified Passes by Council Secretary r City of St. Paul Real Estate Division Dept. of Technology & Management Serv REPORT OF COMPLBTION OF ASSSSSMSNT COUNCIL FILE NO. File No. SEE BELOW Assessment No. SEE BELOW o � -q�1G Voting Ward In the matter of the assessment of benefits, cost and e�penses for 2 J0104AAA (0921) Summary Abatement (property clean-up) of property located at 327 Winifred St. East. t'-ot-o� LAID OVSR BY COIINCIL ON �a��'* TO 9-5-01 LBGISLATIVS HEARING IS 8-21-01 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 Engineering and Inspection Real Estate Service Fee Process Serving Charge Charge-Code Enforcement Abatement Service Charge TOTAL EXPENDITURES Charge To Net Assessment $403.50 $ $ $ $25.00 $20.00 $448.50 5448.50 Said Valuation and Assessment Engineer further reports that he has assessed and levied the total amount as above ascertained, to-wit: the sum of 5448.50 upon each and every lot, part or parcel of land deemed benefited by the said improvement, and in the case of each lot, part or parcel of land in accordance with the benefits conferred thereon; that the said assessment has been completed, and that hereto attached, identified by the signature of the said Valuation and Assessment Engineer, and made a part hereof, is the said assessment as completed by him, and which is herewith submitted to the Council for such action thereon as may be considered proper. Dated �- 7- o j — l�n ^o ^� a ��,2��/"`- �„2Valuation and Assessment Engineer �y or-9�� b � n m r y m x 3 ro H ro � � C � �n000 �iibbb mnrrr H ii [nvm n mc�c H u � f)3 O n C S 3 b ii n n ,ro� r u �nxK �� n nt�Y nxom n Y3T� ii 6] m m n L�J d] • n � i u n n n 11 II u n II 11 n n +n u m � 11 +hi(t.n i P I I N N O m II O UI lJ . ii . . tn ii o o u� o n o 0 0 , .�w� , o � rowyn>H � E mN �z�z � H£C��-�+ � � z�rza�o nz � � z H 3 K7 � � u � H m�+or � � OOtn b � R7 � �� y H � � L��1 i o n> m 3 �,�1 +�m� � f i N � o W m i � � o � � � � � 1 � E r�ncnc� � � O-• O C 7J i'd � � * K � O � �ro`"�zym � m � m C ttl O � 50 � �sL�fC aY .'ti � H � � y � b m y � � � m�.lv3m�e � H H� � b] z z�v�c � m � o Hz ..�� H [DHHC•] r .b i d] C d] x S ��-+ .. H 7� ciJ i ro � b [•J H � H � b7 fn M C�l � H C'HO Sa � O � en r� � z I H .. 1 � yz n� o m� r � rn o � H � i !n %1 U] i n] � ��n �m�b�o � nnz�x �xK� � �z � '� xoca � � ��y � �' �� . � �� ' � � � � ' � �r� H N N i F7 i OU1F' � ' O O O � � i 000�y 0 0 0 � [�7 i i ' � � �y i �y ��O � o�v YF+W I I . . . I Q I O O (ii � z O O O I H I 000 � �] i O O O i(A i � u � � � �� y � ii �y � n � O u � � � n � mu +a� % i ✓�nmma i � �P II N N o � O W II O(n W � C � 11 • � z � UI II O O Ul � ti] � O II 000 � fA O m N N N i r a 0 a � ro 0 ro Ch H K U � m _ 0 rn 0 0 m 0 b m y H � O N F� 3 z v � m z ti � � �� S b � L] m t� To Legislative Hearing Officer - 8-21-01 Public Hearing Date - 9-5-01 T.M.S./REAL ESTATE DIVISION ;ontact Person and Phoue Nu r: Roganna Flink �� 266-8859 ist be on Council Agenda by: is[ be in Council Resesrch Office noon on Friaay Public He$Tl]tg is 9-5-01. # OF SIGNATURE PAGES REQUESTED: ,RThffi�T DALECTOR ATIORNEY ;Ei DIItECTOR DR (OR ASSISTA[VI) ALI. LOCATIONS FOR Ol�q�f� 1ll582 i CLERK MGT. SVC. DIIL At council's request on �-25-01 to 9-5-01 the following was laid over for further discussion. Summary Abatement (properly clean-up) of property located at 327 Winifred St E. File J0104AAA. YIMF.NDATIOPiS: APPROVE (A) OR RE7ECT (R) ERSOI`7AL SERVICE CONTRACTS MOST ANSWER THE FOLLOWING: PLANNING COMMISSION A STAFF 1. Has the persodfirm ever worked uuder a contract for this department? YES NO CR'II. SERVICE COMMISSION A Public HeaIN . Has this person/firm ever been a City employee? YES NO Cm Co�mll'r[t:e A • 1Mes this persoNfirm possess a sldll not normally possessed by aoy YES NO _ corrent City employee? rts whidh Council Objective Explain all YES a�swers on a separate sheet and attach. Neighborhoods Ward 2 � G.�� r� \1'INGPROBLEM, ISSUE, OPPORTUNI7'1 (Who, Whay When, Where, Why?): Q�i7 O'� Property owners or renters create a health hazard at various times throughout the City of Saint Paul when their nrouertv is not kent uu. IF APPROVED: Cost recovery programs to recover expenses for Summary Abatement. 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 IF APPROVED: sidewalk and cross walks. 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 t�es 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 everywhere. Disease and pests could become a nroblem. AMOUNT OF'I'RANSACTION: $Qt48.SO COST/REVENUE BUDGETED (CII2CLE ONE) csouxcE: Assessments only ncrrvmrNVnssEx: Date: $/']/Ol � Green Sheet Number: �, YES NO fON: (EXPLAIN) owners will be noti�ed of the d�� REPORT Date: August 21, 2001 Time: 10:00 a.m. Place: Room 330 City Hall 15 West Kellogg Boulevazd LEGISLATIVE HEARING Gerry Strathman Legisiative Hearing Officer �/� 1. Laid Over Summary Abatement: y J0104AAA Property Cleanup at 327 Winifred Street Fast ��( (Note: the City Council referred this address back to the Legislative Hearing Officer.) Legislative Hearing Officer recommends approval of the assessment. 2. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 843 Rice Street. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (Laid over from 7-17-01) Legislative Hearing Officer recommends approval. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 60 Rose Avenue East. If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Legislative Hearing Officer recommends granting the owner six months to complete the rehabilitation of this properry. 4. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the properry at 63 Atwater Street. If #he owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. Legislative Hearing Officer recommends approval. � O1�946 MINUTES OF Tf� LEGISLATIVE HEARING Tuesday, August 21, 2001 Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer Room 330 Courthouse The meeting was called to order at 10:07 am. STAFF PRESENF: Itoxa�a Flink, Reat Estate; Steve Magner, Code Enforcement � Laid Over Summary Abatement: J0104AAA Property Cleanup at 327 Winifred Street East (Note: the City Conncil has referred fLis address back to the Legislative Hearing Officer.) Khala Kim, owner, appeazed. Gerry Strathman asked what was her concem regazding this assessment. Ms. Kim responded she did not haue any concern. Mr. Strathman stated this was a charge for a cleanup at this property. He understands that she called Councilmember Chris Coleman's office and raised an objection to this chazge. Ms. Kim responded she called Nancy Homans (Mr. Coleman's I,egislative Aide) because she missed a date to attend a previous legistative heariug. Mr. Strathman asked did she understand this was an assessment for $448.50 and did she understand what was done. Ms. Kim responded she did not understaud. (A videotape was shown.) Mr. Strathman staied the chazge levied is for the cost of the cleanup. She should have been notified beforehand to do it W�►en iY was not done, a City crew did it. He wiil recommend the assess�.ent be approved, and she will be notified in a few weeks about how to pay the assessment. Ms. Kim asked does she have to pay right now. Mr. Strathman responded Roxanna Flink can explain to her how the payment options work. Gerry Stratluuan recommends approval of the assessment. Resolntion ordering ti�e owaer to remove or repair the property at 843 Rice Street. If the owner faiLs to comply with the resolntion, Code Enforcemeat is ordered to remove the building. (Laid over from 7-17-01) (No one appeared to zepresent the owner.} Gerry Strathman stated he received a letter dated August 20, 2001; from Gina L. Bulloch, Xcel Energy, Director of Corporate Real Estate. Ms. Bulloch wrote that Xcel Energy is continuing to work with the title insurance company to obtain a mazketable title and continuing to work with North End Area Revitalization in execution of a purchase agreement. 01-4k6 LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINiJTES OF AUGUST 21, 2001 page Z T7us matter has been before him for hearings on two previous occasions, stated Mr. Strathman. On both occasions, he recommended continuing the matter in order to allow Xcel Energy to cleaz up tiUe problems and complete the sell to this prospective buyer. This has gone on way too long. Xcel Energy should have been able to clear the tifle and should have been able to close this purchase agreement. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the resolution. Resolution ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 60 Rose Avenue East If the owner fails to comply with the resolution, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. The following appeared: David Cobb, owner, Chazles Cox, attorney, 676A Butler Square, Minneapolis. Steve Magner reported this building has been vacant since 2-23-01, after there was a fire at the building. The current owner is David S. Cobb, who purchased the building after the original fire. There has been one summary abatement notice issued to remove refuse and secure the basement window. On 7-9-01, an inspection of the building was conducted and a list of deficiencies which constitute a nuisance condition was developed and photographs were taken. This inspection occurred after a second fire in the beginning of July. An order to abate a nuisance building was issued on 7-11-01 with a compliance date of 7-23-01. The City has had to boazd the building. The vacant building regish�ation fees have been paid. Esrimated market value on the structure is $52,300; estimated mazket value of the land, $9,900; estimated cost to demolish, $8,000 to $9,000. The cost of the repairs aze in question. It will be high due to the damage. There was a code compliance inspection done on the building 7-23-01. The owner posted a$2,000 bond on 7-19-01. Mr. Cax stated that Mr. Cobb is in the business of rehabilitating distressed structures. He has over 20 years experience in the field and has rehabilitated a number of houses within the City. In the last five yeazs, many of those haue been structures with fire damage. He has obtained bids for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing work to be done on the praperiy. He has worked with these contractors in the past. He has not yet obtained a structural engineer for this project because he is waiting to see if he is allowed to repair this structure before money is laid out for a retainer, which is required by the structural engineer. He aiso has a financial package in place for the property. Mortgage has beea agproveci for ihe amaunt of $65,Q�0, which Mr. Cobb believes will cover the cost of the repairs. I�e believes he can have 90% of the necessary work done by the end of November. The balance will be done by February of next year. Last point, Mr. Cobb does intend to install a security system in the properiy while the rehabilitation is being done because of two fires that have been set on the properry. Mr. Strathman asked were the two fires azson. Mr. Cobb responded yes. Mr. Cobb stated he has been in communication with an engineering firm. They will do the structiu�al engineering of the house. They have had prints made up, which will be submitted to the 0 ►-94� LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINiJTES OF AUGUST 21, 2001 Page 3 City after the engineer has added changes as to what he wants done. Mr. Cobb has received bids for plumbing, heatiag, and electricat, which run approximately $6,000 each. He has been approved for a mortgage for the rehabilitation. He has worked with the Cit7 in the past, stated Mr. Cobb. He has been appointed by Mayor Coleman on the Ovemight Shelter Boazd in 1994; he has a letter of endorsement from the chairman of that boazd. He has a letter from Wilder Foundation about the work he has done. He also has a letter from the Community StabiliTation Project. Mr. Strati�man asked what the long term plans are. Mr. Cobb responded to rehabilitate the property and sell it. He purchased it for $12,000. He has with him photographs of previous properties he has rehabilitated. George Stuber, 62 Rose Avenue East, appeazed and stated he lives neact door to tlus property. He called the fire department twice on this properry. T'his properiy has been in his wife's fanuly since the 1950's. It was sold in 1994. It had been in reasonably good condition. He could not get a first mortgage due to the dry rotted floor beams. It was sold on a contract for deed and sold again but they had to take a deep discount. The new buyers did nothing but destroy the building for 6%z yeazs. It burned on 2-1-01 from a faulty space heater. According to Code Enforcement, it was scheduled to be demolished when a new bnyer came along. On 7-2-01, a huge fire burned through the complete house and through the roof. It is time for the house to go, says Mr. Stuber. It does not fit into the azea because it is the only 1870 building out there. Councilmember Jim Reiter said this would make a good vacant lot. Mr. Stuber stated he does not think someone can make this a decent properry with $60,000. Other houses in the area were built in the 1940's and set back from the street. This property is right against the property line. The retaiuing wall was taken down in the last couple of days. (Mr. Stuber submitted photographs for �Ise record.) The foliowsng appeazed: Marie Wadell, 33 Langer Circle, West Saint Paul, and her sister Dorothy Stuber, 62 Rose Avenue East. Ms. Wadell read a statement from Ms. Stuber. Ms. Stuber wrote the property is dangerous, unsound, and not repairable. The walls and ceiling have begun to crack and fall. Stucco has been put on top of old asphalt siding. The basement has lixnestone walls that are cracked and peeling. The floor joists have dry rot. It has been almost seven momhs since the f�st fire and �t much has been done to the properiy. Their property values have decteased. Ms. Wadell stated the Stubers have a lot of damage on their home from 60 Rose. Her concern is that a strict time line is followed. (A copy of the petition plus photographs were submitted for the record.) Michael Switka, 61 Rose Avenue East, appeazed and stated that 60 Rose is a burned out shell. After the second fire, he asked Mr. Magner why the property was not demolished, and Mr. Magner said Mr. Cobb has the right to renovate the properry. However, stated Mr. Switka, Mr. Di-ayy LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF AUGUST 21, 2001 Page 4 Cobb does not live in the neighborhood. He is trying to make a profit after a structure that is beyond salvaging. Aow he can make money on this property is beyond him. Mr. Cobb has owned the pmperly since mid Mazch There had been no improvements made to this property before the second &re. The Stubers have a house that looks im�„a��. Dimng the second fire, it started melting the siding on the Stubers house. Mr. Switka stated this eyesore should be demolished. Tun Mueller,1568 Myrtle Street, appeazed and stated he has been invoived in the building trades for over 40 years, and involved in rehabilitating homes and building new ones for over 30 yeazs. His wife's pazents hied to keep the property up because the property was over 100 yeazs old. The underside of that home had dry rot over 20 yeazs ago. There is an old cistern that is underneath half of the basement. The stucco was installed poorly over the original siding. The house is truly a loss. He cannot believe a man can financially rehabilitate that house correctly, do it safely, take out the burnt wood, put that place together again, and have a good safe home that would be attractive and reasonably complementary to the neighborhood. Clazence Roban, 57 Geranium Avenue East, appeazed and stated he agrees with the other comments from his neighbors. He is concerned about the Stubers that live next door to 60 Rose. Mr. Straihman asked did Mr. Cobb have any comments to make in response. Mr. Cobb responded that he aiso has a petition signed by five neighbors asking the City to allow him to rehabilitate the structure. He just got the petition going yesterday after hearing that Mr. Stuber had a petition. The work done so far is demolition work on the inside and getting rid of the fue damage on the outside. He tore down the porch and back 1/3 of the house, the damaged retaining wall is gone, the roof is off of the house, and he has piating materiat securing the walls of the house to the flooring so that the house is not damaged by wind racldug the frame. He has not had a crew of carpenters redoing the house because he wants the hearing to give him indication that he can rehabilitate before he spends tho�sand of dolflaxs. All wark will be done according to code. A large part of ihe cost of the rehabilitativn is ius labor. He is a licensed contractor and he has done many houses. Mr. Strathman asked about the dry rot and the cistem under the building. Mr. Cobb responded all that will have to be removed during the rehabilitation of the sfructure. Also, this house has historic designation due Yo its age and the front porch detaits. He is eaploring the possibility of putting it on the historic register. Mr. Strathman asked is it in the historic preseavation disirict. Mr. Magner responded it is not Mr. Cobb stated he has a statement from a neighbor that there is a group in the area that wants the house burned down. Upon being asked how the security system will be installed, Mr. Cobb responded the garage electrical system is intact. An electrician will energize the electrical system in the gazage and he will bring one line of power to the house. There wiil be a motion sensor in the house. oi-9�6 LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUT'ES OF AUGUST 21, 2001 Page 5 Mr. Magner read a fire report into the record dated 7-20-01. This report is a supplement to the code compliance report dated 3-5-01. It stipulated what needed to be done. In addition, the owner will have to bring the plumbing, electrical, heating up to mi.,;.�,� ��. If the fire had not bcen put out at the time, the fire departmeat would haue had the building raised immediately at the time of the fire. Based on the fire department's belief and the subsequent inspection of Yhe property, it was deemed that it was not an immediate hazard and not going to fall down; however, it created such a nuisance in the community, it was brought to this forum so the community and the owner could beaz any issues. In Mr. Magner's opinion, to rehabilitate this building is going to be cost prohibitive unless the owner is doing the majority of the work and is willing to consider his sweat equity as his profit out of the property. Mr. Strathman stated Mr. Cobb is a legitimate owner of the property, and has pians to rehabilitate it. Mr. Strathman understands that people may have different opinions about whether something is economically viable; however, he dces not think the City can substitute his judgement and the City Council's judgemem for someone's business judgement. If Mr. Cobb is mistaken in his assessment of the economics of this, he is the one that will beaz the consequence of that mistake. The owner is fully aware of the risks of this enterprise and the challenge before him. It is also clear the property is a disturbance to the neighbors. It will continue to be one because rehabilitafion is not instantaneous. While Mr. Strathman believes that Mr. Cobb needs an oppomuiity to do this, the City has to set a time line for him to accomplish this. Because he has met ail the Iegat requirements--paid the vacant building fee, obtained a code compliance inspec#ion, paid the $2,000 bond which could be forfeited if he does not fulfill his obligations--the City dces not haue any choice but to allow him six months to complete his rehabilitation. As Mr. Cox referenced, if Mr. Cobb is more than 50% done within six months, he can apply for an additional six months. Gerry Stratl�man recommends granting the owner six months to complete the rehabilitation of this ProPertY• Resnlntion ordering the owner to remove or repair the property at 63 Atwater Street. If the ovvner #ails to comply, Code Enforcement is ordered to remove the building. (No one appeared to represent the property.) Steve Magner reported this property was condemned June 2001 and has been vacant since 6-26-01. The owner is Atwater Investment Company. Two summary abatement notices have been issued to remove refuse, and secure the buet�d'mg. On 7-i-Ol, there was a fire that caused substantial dan�age to the progea2y. Because of tlus fire, an inspection of the building was conducYed on 7-9-QI, a iist of deficiencies which constitute a nuisance condition was developed, and photographs were taken. An order to abate a nuisance building was issued on 7-11-01 with a compliance date of 7-23-01_ Vacant building fees aze due. Real estate taxes aze paid. Estimated mazket value is $43,200 on the structure and $7,500 on the land; es6mated cost to demolish, $8,000 to $9,000. The repairs aze in excess of $100,000. di-RK� LEGISLATIVE HEARING MINUTES OF AUGUST 21, 2001 Page 6 Mr. Magner received a phone call from Bob Neeser from Atwater Investment Company. His message was he would be at work and cannot attend the meeting. He is waiting to here &om his insurance cflmpany; they will repair the building or tear it down. Mr. Neeser did not leave a phone number. He was served papers personally conceming this legislative hearing and the City Council public hearing. A vacant building notice, order to abate the nuisance, and the summary abatement have been posted on the property, and were still there the other day when the properry was inspected. This has been a problem properiy for a number of years. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of the resolution based on the information provided by Code Enforcement, the review of the photographs, and absent any teskimony from the owner. The meeting was adjourned at approximately 11:00 a.m. � To Legistative Hearing Officer - 7-17-01 ��f�//t�/-tt� �/�f��y� T.M.S./REAL ESTATE stact Person aad Phoae Number: Roxanna Flink� 266-8859 be on Counci! Agenda by: be in Council Research OfEice on on Friday 6-27-01 6-15-01 AL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES DIRECIOR (OR ASSISTANT) & bIGT.SVC. DIR. ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNA 'IQN 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 & April 2001 and Towing aband. vehicles during January 2001. File No.'s J0104A, J0103C, J0103B and J0104V. rt�IENDATIONS: APPROVE (A) OR REJECT (R) J� A J �� J � � E �' � PLANNLYG COIDI�II5510,�' A STAFF . Has the person/Fitm ever worked under a contract for Ihis deparimen[? PFS NO CIVIL SERVICE COMAlISSION Cffi CO\ISII7TEE rts whidh Council Objective Neighborhoods A Public Health A VacantBldg Does this person/firm possess a sldll not normally possessed by any current City employee? Ezplain all YES aaswers on a separate sheet and attach. o � -v�t� YES NO YES NO PROBLEM, ISSIJE, OPPOR'PUNITY (�Vho, Wi�at, �Vhen, Where, �Vhy?): Property owners or renters create a health hazard at various times throughout the City of Saint IF APPROVED: Cost recovery programs to recover expenses for Summary Abatements, Demolition, Boarding-up and Towing aband. Vehides. 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 a!1 other items. In winter this includes the removal of snorv and ice from sidewalk IF APPROVED: If Council does not approve these charges, General Fund would be required to pay the assessment. Assessments are payable over i year and coilected with the property taxes if not IF NOT APPROVED: Neighborhoods would be left to deteriorate and property values woutd decline. Nobody would take care of their property, especialty vacant or rentai properties. Rodents, filth, garbage and trash would accumulate everywhere. Disease and pests could become a problem. __ _ TAL AMOIJNT OF TR9NSACTIO.!': $1($ ,733.44 COSTlREVENUE BUDGETED (CIRCLE OYE) SOURCE: ASSCSSITI2IIYS OIII)' ACTIVITYIv'UieIBER: Has this persodfirm ever been a City employee? Date: 5/30/01 � Green Sheet Number: I11143 �1 EP�R'11�SEhT DIRECfOR I'CY COW. CQ., ATTORNEY YES NO 1L INFOR�IATION: (EXPLAI� 173 properfy owners will be notified of the public hearing and