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02-220� ` M�. Councfl File # �'a -a .7d ! � ° °� at] a-OE>? -� i i ti � '--� _ � ` '._.% , �j � Green Sheet # 113673 Pxesented RESOLUT{ON CITY OF SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA �3 Refesed To Committee Date BE PT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Saint Paul hereby certifies and approves the March 12, 2002, decisions of the Legislative Heating Officer on Properiy Code Enforcement Appeals for the followiug addresses: 4 Propertv Ap ep aled Ap ep llant 1335 Pavne Avenue (Rescheduled from 2-26-02) Robert E. Epple Decision: Appeal denied on Notice of Condemnauon dated February 8, 2002, and Summary Abatement Order dated February 7, 2002. 10 _. _ _ _ : . __._ ^._ _ _. .. __. � � `( S ��� �rr S �: Hazold Strassener for JLT Gz'oup, Inc. 11 Decision: Appeal denied on Certificate of Occupancy dated Rebruary 7, 2002. 12 576 Snelline Avenue South Phyllis M.K. Smith 13 Decision: Appeal granted on the nonconforming doors on the following conditions: i) if the nonconforming 14 doors ever need to be replaced, they will be replaced with conforming fire rated door assemblies, 2) the building 15 will otherwise be maintained in compliance with all applicabie codes and ordinances. 16 584 Snelline Avenue South Phyllis M. K. Smith 17 Decision: Appeal granted on the nonconforming doors on the following conditions: 1) if the nonconforming 18 doors ever need to be replaced, they will be repiaced with conforming fire rated door assemblies, 2) the buIlding 19 will otherwise be maintained in compliance with all applicable codes and ordinances. 20 500 Fry Street James Da1y 21 Decision: Appeal granted on the nonconforming doors on the following condiuons: 1) if the nonconfornung 22 doors ever need to be replaced, they will be replaced with conformiug fire rated door assemblies, 2) the buitding 23 will otherwise be maiutained in compliance with all applicable codes and ordinances. 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 1880 Grand Avenue: 859. 869, 877, 885 St. Paul Avenue; Joe Wolkowicz for Wolkowicz Realty 880. 890. 896. 908. 924 Cleveland Avenue South: 2047 Saunders Avenue Decision: Appeal granted on the nonconforming doors on the following conditions: 1) if the nonconforming doors ever need to be replaced, they will be replaced with conforming fire rated door assemblies, 2) the building will otherwise be maintained in compliance with all applicable codes and ordinances. 1319 Pierce Butler Route James A. Kilbane III Decision: Appeal denied on February 27, 2002, LIEP notice. Green Sheet 113673 1 935 Case Avenue Theodore 7. Schneider � —� ` 2 Decision: Appeal gtanted on the Deficiency List dated February 27, 2002. 3 727 Front Avenue Lazry Raymond for New Mech Companies 4 Decision: Penalty fee reduced from $1,450.00 to $725.00. 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 —�� ' . - � ��__ . - u , i �__ '��__ :-�.�. �__ �__� : � . �� �__ ��__ ��■sa Requested by Department o£ � Form Approved by City Attomey � Approved by Mayar for Submission to Counc3l By: 12 13 14 Adopted by Council: Date:�� � C �'�d cs ;� 15 ' 16 17 18 19 � D� -aad DEPARTMINffOFFICFJCOUNCIL oA7E ixmATm . , .. . . . . . City Council Offices March 13, 2002 GREEN SHEET NO �� 3�7� CONTACT PQ2SON 8 PIiONE NmaVmn NNWm�s Gerry Strathman, 266-8560 �,,,,,,� ,,,�.� MUST BE ON COIRJCIL AGENDA BV t0.4T� AeS�G/1 W1YBBtFOR CtIYATfOMEY ❑OIY46R1( RWTVIC - �� AlIU1G�LaFrtu1CFRWL IiY11C1�LfER1'Il�Ctto �wvoRroRwssr�wn ❑ TOTAL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES (CLIP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATURE) CTION REQUESTHI Approving the March 12, 2002, decisions of the Legislative Hearing Officer on Property Code Enfoxcement Appeals for the following addresses: 1335 Payne Avenue, 2750 Seventh Street West, 576 Snelling Avenue South, 584 Snelling Avenue South, 500 Fry Street, 1880 Grand Avenue; 859, 869, 877, 885 St. Paul Avenue; 880, 890, 896, 908, 924 Cleveland Avenue South; 2047 Saunders Avenue, and 1319 Pierce Butler Route. RECOMMENDATIONApprove(A)orRejeet R) PERSONALSERVICECONiRACfSMU5TAN5WERiHEFOLLAWiNGQUE57ION5: 1. Has this persoNfirtn everworketl under a cont�act far this tleparfinenl? PLANNING CAMMISSION YES NO CiB COMMITfEE 2. Has this pe�soNfirm erer been a cay empbyeeT CIVIL SERVICE CAMMISSION , YES NO 3. Do� Nis DeB��m P� a sitill not rartnallYP�� bY any wrteM city emPIoY�7 VES NO 4. IstlrisP���a1m9Medven'bYf _ YES NO E�lain all yee anawers on sepa�afe sheet aiW attach to green sheH INITIATING PROBLEM ISSUE, OPPoRTUNITV (WM, What, Wtren, Wtiere, Why) AWANTAGES IF APPROVED Counci6 F�esearch Center MAR ;. �, 2602 DISADVANTAGES IF APPROVED " DISADVANTAGES IF NOT APPROVED TOTAL AMOUNT OP TRANSACTION f COST/REVENUE BUDGEfED (GRCLE ONk� YES NO FUNDMG SOURCE ACTNITY NUMBER FlNFNCIAL INFORMATION (EXPIAIN) � 02-2� ��. NOTES OF TT-� PROPERTY CODE ENFORCENIENT MEETING Tuesday, Mazch 12, 2002 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer The meeting was called to order at 132 p.m. STAFF PRESENT: Chris Cahill, Fire Prevention; Tom Friel, Code Enforcement; Ron Haider, LIEP (License, Inspections, and Environmental Protection); David Olson, LIEP; Michael Unnan,,, gi�e Prevention 1335 Pavne Avenue (Rescheduled from 2-26-02) Robert E. Epple, owner, appeazed and stated he received a nofice of condemnation and a summary abatement order. He wanted to produce evidence that no one is living upstairs. He is willing to do what he can to prove he is a good home owner. The violations have to do with upstairs matters. He is intending to leave the upstairs vacant. Tom Friel reported he does not have a problem with the properry staying empty as long as the owner is doing the repairs. The items on the summary abatement order haue been done. Mr. Strathman asked will the upstairs remain condemned until he brings it up to code. Mr. Epple responded yes. Gerry Strathman denied the appeal on the Notice of Condexnnation dated February 8, 2002, and Summary Abatement Order dated February 7, 2002. The condemnation will stand until it is removed. The other matter has been resolved. The owner should contact the inspector to get the appropriate inspections done before the properry is occupied. When it passes inspection, the condemnation order will be lifted. 1465 Davern Street Harold Strassener, representing JLT Group, appeared and stated he was a fireman in Saint Paul far 20 years so he has a good lrnowledge of firefighting. When he first opened the building, he dealt with a previous inspector, who has since retired. This is regarding an all concrete parking ramp. There were fire extinguishers out in the open, and they have a tendency to be taken. The previous inspector said to just write a letter to him. Mr. Strassener talked to a Carl Comparoni (Fire Prevention) and explained the situation. Mr. Strassener feels that the fire station is a short distance away, and he does not want a customer putting out a car fire with a small fire extinguisher. He has several shuttle busses that all have fire extinguishers. Also, he has a big e�tinguisher in his office. More damage would be done with someone putting out a fire with a small eactinguisher than just leaving it alone. More problems are caused with unprofessionals trying to put out a car fire instead of calling and having the right people do it. Gerry Strathman asked has there been a car fire in this gazage and is someone there 24 hours a day. Mr. Strassener responded there has not been a fire in the gazage and at least two people aze there at a11 times. c�Z2Zo PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTES OF MARCH 12, 2002 Page 2 Michael Urmann reported the written order is to maintain and tag the fire extinguishers; the order is not to provide them. The Fire Mazshall under the fire code has the right to require fire extinguishers. It is the Fire Mazshall's opinion that they aze required in this location. Mr. Strathman asked does the Fire Mazshall have a solution regazding the disappearing fire eatinguishers. Mr. Urmann responded the Fire Marshall's opinion is there aze products on the market to secure the fire ea�tinguishers. The Fire Mazshall's concern is the combustible load within the building. Also, a fire extinguisher is used for egress of the building by the occupants and not used so much to put out a fire. Mr. Strathman stated the deficiency list does not show there is a requirement for a certain number of fire eatinguishers. Mr. Urmann responded the extinguishers are in place, but they are required to be maintained on an annual basis. That is why he fails to understand what the appeal is about. Mr. Strathman asked is he intending to remove the extinguishers. Mr. Strassener responded there are plenty of ways for people to get out. The problem is when someone lifts up the hood of a tnu�lc to put out a fire, and the oxygen sets the fire off fitrther. If they blow off the gas line or a transmission line with the fire extinguisher, fluid is spilled, and the fire can go out further. Mr. Strathman asked are fire ea�tinguishers there now. Mr. Strassener responded he has seven buses that rotate back and forth from the airport. All seven buses have a fire eatinguisher. He does have a huge one in the office that is more efficient. Mr. Strathman asked is it the fire department's contention that they aze not being maintained. Mr. Urmann responded they have to be maintained annually, and they are not at this time. Mr. Strassener stated if he doesn't replace the stolen ones, Mr. Urmann will give him another tag, and then Mr. Strassener will haue to come before the hearing officer again. Mr. Strathman responded he does not know what Fire Prevention wiil do if the extinguishers are removed, but he cannot decide it until it happens. Again, Fire Prevention just wants to make sure they are tested. Gerry Strathman denied the appeal on the Certificate of Occupancy dated February 7, 2002. 576 SnellingAvenue South Gerry Strathman sent a letter to the owner with the following decision: Appeal granted on the nonconforniing doors on the following conditions: 1) if the nonconfonning doors ever need to be replaced, they will be replaced with conforming fire rated door assemblies, 2) the building will otherwise be maintained in compliance with all applicable codes and ordinances. 584 Snellin�Avenue South Gerry Strathman sent a letter to the owner with the following decision: Appeal granted on the nonconforxning doors on the following condirions: 1) if the nonconfomung doors ever need to be o�=Z PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTES OF MARCH 12, 2002 Page 3 replaced, they wiil be replaced with confornung fire rated door assemblies, 2) the building will otherwise be maintained in compliance with all applicable codes and ordinances. 500 Fr�Street Gerry Strathman sent a letter to the owner with the following decision: Appeal granted on the nonconforming doors on the following condifions: 1) if the nonconforxning doors ever need to be replaced, they will be repiaced with conforming fire rated door assemblies, 2) the building will otherwise be maintained in compliance with a11 applicable codes and ordinances. 1880 Grand Avenue: 859. 869. 87'1. 885 St. Paul Avenue: 880. 890. 896. 908. 924 Cleveland Avenue South: 2047 Saunders Avenue Gerry Strathman sent a letter to the owner with the following decision: Appeal granted on the nonconforming doors on the following conditions: 1) if the nonconforming doors ever need to be replaced, they will be replaced with conforming fire rated door assemblies, 2) the building wili otherwise be maintained in compliance with all applicable codes and ordinances. 1319 Pierce Butler Route James A. Kilbane III, owner, appeared. He presented photographs to Gerry Strathman. In the welding azea of his building, he stated, there were fans that circulated the air. He decided to make their own filter boxes to improve the quality of the air. These boxes haue a prefilter to take out the fiunes. There is a bag filter underneath it to take the dust out of the air. They built them and installed them. They had an elechician get a permit and hook them up. Now, Mr. Kilbane's company is being cited because the units were not designed by an engineering firm and were not installed by a qualified installer. His concem is a metal fabrication company. They build systems like this for resale. Ron Haider reported he went to 1319 Pierce Bufler to do an inspecfion because an addition was put on the building. As he was going through the plant, he saw an air filtration system. This work requires a permit and requires to be installed by a license contractor. He put a red stop work tag on the system. Mr. Strathman asked why a permit is required. NIr. Haider responded there are certain standards for installation. He did not inspect it, but he did see a couple of things that were in violation of the code; for example, there was a connector that did not meet flame and smoke requirements. Mr. Strathman asked could the system be modified to be in compliance with the code. Mr. Haider responded yes and he did not tliivk it would take a lot of work to get it fixed properly. Mr. Strathman asked what he is looking for by way of solution. Mr. Haider responded a permit is needed for the installation and a licensed contractor to fix the things that would be wrong. The permit fee is i% of the value of the work, with a minimum of $42, and then there is a surcharge for the State. Mr. Kilbane stated he was not aware that he needed a pernut. His issue is that he oZ. PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTES OF MARCH 12, 2002 Page 4 wouid have to hire a contractor to design, build, and install this system when it is already done. They haue built things like this for customers who have come in with systems like this. Mr. Strathman asked would it meet the City's needs if Mr. Kilbane pulled a pemut, the inspector looked at it, and Mr. Kilbane made the conections. Mr. Haider responded Mr. Kilbane could not get a permit because he is not licensed for that kind of work. Given that the city ordinance requires a permit and licensed contractor, asked Mr. Strathman, is he asking that he be given an exception. Mr. Kilbane responded he would not say that. He had fans that were bolted to the walls of the building. Ail they did was put filters on these fans, change the configuration, and put them in filter boxes. He is willing to take the system apart and redoing it to their standazds. Mr. Strathman asked would he prefer to not pay the contractor and do it himself. Mr. Haider concurred. Mr. Strathman asked is there anything in the code about doing work on one's own property. Mr. Olson responded in one's own dwelling unit. Mr. Haider said another exception is a portable unit. What if he made his units portable and detached them from the wall, responded Mr. Kilbane. Mr. Strathman stated that Mr. Kilbane made these himself so they probably don't meet that standard. Anyway, it is silly to put them on wheels and call them portable. Mr. Strathman asked would a contractor charge a large fee to look at these things. Mr. Kilbane responded he had a contractor look at this and he did not want to touch the issue, but would build a completely new system. This is a contractor they have worked with before. Mr. Stathman stated the City does have some liability to make sure things are done properly. Mr. Olson responded it is a ventilation system to protect his workers. If it was installed according to code, it would haue to be vented to the eacterior of the building. Is he correct in understanding, asked Mr. Strathman, that if the unit was disconnected, then eveiything would be okay. Mr. Olson responded there is no clear language saying there has to be ventilation in a weiding azea. If there were open flames, the fire code may have some requirements. There could be some federal requirements; however, there are not any concerns within the mechanical and building codes. Mr. Strathman stated if the appeal is denied, there aze two options: the owner can find a contractor to do the work or he can disconnect it. Mr. Kilbane responded that he does not want his employees subjected to that smoke. The other option is to open an egress door and put a fan nea�t to it. oZ PROPERTY COAE ENFORCEMENT NOTES OF MARCH 12, 2�02 Page 5 Gerry Strathman denied the appeal on the February 27, 2002, LIEP notice. They aze faced with a code that has certain requirements having to do with health and safety issues. The owner knows what his options aze. 935 Case Avenue Theodore J. Schneider, owner, appeazed and stated he would like a variance. He has two efficiency apartments in this seven unit building, which was built in 1910. These efficiencies have bathrooms outside these aparnnents. He purchased the properry last year. Michael Urmann reported that Pat Fish (Fire Prevention) does not oppose the appeal being granted. Gerry Strathman granted the appeal on the Deficiency List dated Febniary 27, 2002. 727 Front Avenue Jim Schauer, representing New Mech Companies, appeared and stated he is here to appeal the double charge of the pernut fee. Before he had plans submitted, he asked Chris Cahill for a time frame on getting them approved. He was told up to two weeks. He dropped the plans off. Two weeks later, he got a cali requesting more materiaL He dropped the plan off on Friday, February 1. Public Housing Agency wanted to do a mock up of the room. This is a 20 story highrise. He called Wednesday, February 6 to check on the status of the drawings. Pipe was delivered on Wednesday, February 6, and installarion was started on the mockup on February 7. At the February 8 weekly progress meeting, he was told Mr. Cahill had not seen any major problems with the drawings. The City inspected Tuesday. They were trying to meet the deadiine, stated Mr. Schauer. He should have done better about contacting the City. Gerry Strathman asked when he got the pemut. Mr. Schauer responded the 12th. Mr. Strathman stated he started the installation on February 8 and had the permit on Febrnary 12. There were two days--Friday and Monday--that he was doing work without a permit. Chris Cahill stated the fine as specified in the Legislative Code seems to be excessive in this case. The company did start beforehand. The City has a good working relationship with New Mech. Mr. Strathman recommends the penalty be reduced from $1,450.00 to $725.00. The meeting was adjourned at 222 p.m. rrn Page 1 of i o a - a-� Nancy Anderson - Item 13 From: Racquel Naylor To: Anderson, Nancy; Stratbman, Gerry Date: 3/20/2002 8:32 AM Subject: Item 13 CC: Rider, Chris There is a mistake on Item 13 on the agenda. 2750 Seventh Street West should be 1465 Davern Street. There was a mistake in the paperwork I received, and I didn't catch it in time. I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. -Racquel, 6-8573 file:flC:\WINDOWS\TEMP\GW}00004.HTM 3/2Q/2Q02 � ` M�. Councfl File # �'a -a .7d ! � ° °� at] a-OE>? -� i i ti � '--� _ � ` '._.% , �j � Green Sheet # 113673 Pxesented RESOLUT{ON CITY OF SAINT PAUL, MINNESOTA �3 Refesed To Committee Date BE PT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Saint Paul hereby certifies and approves the March 12, 2002, decisions of the Legislative Heating Officer on Properiy Code Enforcement Appeals for the followiug addresses: 4 Propertv Ap ep aled Ap ep llant 1335 Pavne Avenue (Rescheduled from 2-26-02) Robert E. Epple Decision: Appeal denied on Notice of Condemnauon dated February 8, 2002, and Summary Abatement Order dated February 7, 2002. 10 _. _ _ _ : . __._ ^._ _ _. .. __. � � `( S ��� �rr S �: Hazold Strassener for JLT Gz'oup, Inc. 11 Decision: Appeal denied on Certificate of Occupancy dated Rebruary 7, 2002. 12 576 Snelline Avenue South Phyllis M.K. Smith 13 Decision: Appeal granted on the nonconforming doors on the following conditions: i) if the nonconforming 14 doors ever need to be replaced, they will be replaced with conforming fire rated door assemblies, 2) the building 15 will otherwise be maintained in compliance with all applicabie codes and ordinances. 16 584 Snelline Avenue South Phyllis M. K. Smith 17 Decision: Appeal granted on the nonconforming doors on the following conditions: 1) if the nonconforming 18 doors ever need to be replaced, they will be repiaced with conforming fire rated door assemblies, 2) the buIlding 19 will otherwise be maintained in compliance with all applicable codes and ordinances. 20 500 Fry Street James Da1y 21 Decision: Appeal granted on the nonconforming doors on the following condiuons: 1) if the nonconfornung 22 doors ever need to be replaced, they will be replaced with conformiug fire rated door assemblies, 2) the buitding 23 will otherwise be maiutained in compliance with all applicable codes and ordinances. 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 1880 Grand Avenue: 859. 869, 877, 885 St. Paul Avenue; Joe Wolkowicz for Wolkowicz Realty 880. 890. 896. 908. 924 Cleveland Avenue South: 2047 Saunders Avenue Decision: Appeal granted on the nonconforming doors on the following conditions: 1) if the nonconforming doors ever need to be replaced, they will be replaced with conforming fire rated door assemblies, 2) the building will otherwise be maintained in compliance with all applicable codes and ordinances. 1319 Pierce Butler Route James A. Kilbane III Decision: Appeal denied on February 27, 2002, LIEP notice. Green Sheet 113673 1 935 Case Avenue Theodore 7. Schneider � —� ` 2 Decision: Appeal gtanted on the Deficiency List dated February 27, 2002. 3 727 Front Avenue Lazry Raymond for New Mech Companies 4 Decision: Penalty fee reduced from $1,450.00 to $725.00. 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 —�� ' . - � ��__ . - u , i �__ '��__ :-�.�. �__ �__� : � . �� �__ ��__ ��■sa Requested by Department o£ � Form Approved by City Attomey � Approved by Mayar for Submission to Counc3l By: 12 13 14 Adopted by Council: Date:�� � C �'�d cs ;� 15 ' 16 17 18 19 � D� -aad DEPARTMINffOFFICFJCOUNCIL oA7E ixmATm . , .. . . . . . City Council Offices March 13, 2002 GREEN SHEET NO �� 3�7� CONTACT PQ2SON 8 PIiONE NmaVmn NNWm�s Gerry Strathman, 266-8560 �,,,,,,� ,,,�.� MUST BE ON COIRJCIL AGENDA BV t0.4T� AeS�G/1 W1YBBtFOR CtIYATfOMEY ❑OIY46R1( RWTVIC - �� AlIU1G�LaFrtu1CFRWL IiY11C1�LfER1'Il�Ctto �wvoRroRwssr�wn ❑ TOTAL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES (CLIP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATURE) CTION REQUESTHI Approving the March 12, 2002, decisions of the Legislative Hearing Officer on Property Code Enfoxcement Appeals for the following addresses: 1335 Payne Avenue, 2750 Seventh Street West, 576 Snelling Avenue South, 584 Snelling Avenue South, 500 Fry Street, 1880 Grand Avenue; 859, 869, 877, 885 St. Paul Avenue; 880, 890, 896, 908, 924 Cleveland Avenue South; 2047 Saunders Avenue, and 1319 Pierce Butler Route. RECOMMENDATIONApprove(A)orRejeet R) PERSONALSERVICECONiRACfSMU5TAN5WERiHEFOLLAWiNGQUE57ION5: 1. Has this persoNfirtn everworketl under a cont�act far this tleparfinenl? PLANNING CAMMISSION YES NO CiB COMMITfEE 2. Has this pe�soNfirm erer been a cay empbyeeT CIVIL SERVICE CAMMISSION , YES NO 3. Do� Nis DeB��m P� a sitill not rartnallYP�� bY any wrteM city emPIoY�7 VES NO 4. IstlrisP���a1m9Medven'bYf _ YES NO E�lain all yee anawers on sepa�afe sheet aiW attach to green sheH INITIATING PROBLEM ISSUE, OPPoRTUNITV (WM, What, Wtren, Wtiere, Why) AWANTAGES IF APPROVED Counci6 F�esearch Center MAR ;. �, 2602 DISADVANTAGES IF APPROVED " DISADVANTAGES IF NOT APPROVED TOTAL AMOUNT OP TRANSACTION f COST/REVENUE BUDGEfED (GRCLE ONk� YES NO FUNDMG SOURCE ACTNITY NUMBER FlNFNCIAL INFORMATION (EXPIAIN) � 02-2� ��. NOTES OF TT-� PROPERTY CODE ENFORCENIENT MEETING Tuesday, Mazch 12, 2002 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer The meeting was called to order at 132 p.m. STAFF PRESENT: Chris Cahill, Fire Prevention; Tom Friel, Code Enforcement; Ron Haider, LIEP (License, Inspections, and Environmental Protection); David Olson, LIEP; Michael Unnan,,, gi�e Prevention 1335 Pavne Avenue (Rescheduled from 2-26-02) Robert E. Epple, owner, appeazed and stated he received a nofice of condemnation and a summary abatement order. He wanted to produce evidence that no one is living upstairs. He is willing to do what he can to prove he is a good home owner. The violations have to do with upstairs matters. He is intending to leave the upstairs vacant. Tom Friel reported he does not have a problem with the properry staying empty as long as the owner is doing the repairs. The items on the summary abatement order haue been done. Mr. Strathman asked will the upstairs remain condemned until he brings it up to code. Mr. Epple responded yes. Gerry Strathman denied the appeal on the Notice of Condexnnation dated February 8, 2002, and Summary Abatement Order dated February 7, 2002. The condemnation will stand until it is removed. The other matter has been resolved. The owner should contact the inspector to get the appropriate inspections done before the properry is occupied. When it passes inspection, the condemnation order will be lifted. 1465 Davern Street Harold Strassener, representing JLT Group, appeared and stated he was a fireman in Saint Paul far 20 years so he has a good lrnowledge of firefighting. When he first opened the building, he dealt with a previous inspector, who has since retired. This is regarding an all concrete parking ramp. There were fire extinguishers out in the open, and they have a tendency to be taken. The previous inspector said to just write a letter to him. Mr. Strassener talked to a Carl Comparoni (Fire Prevention) and explained the situation. Mr. Strassener feels that the fire station is a short distance away, and he does not want a customer putting out a car fire with a small fire extinguisher. He has several shuttle busses that all have fire extinguishers. Also, he has a big e�tinguisher in his office. More damage would be done with someone putting out a fire with a small eactinguisher than just leaving it alone. More problems are caused with unprofessionals trying to put out a car fire instead of calling and having the right people do it. Gerry Strathman asked has there been a car fire in this gazage and is someone there 24 hours a day. Mr. Strassener responded there has not been a fire in the gazage and at least two people aze there at a11 times. c�Z2Zo PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTES OF MARCH 12, 2002 Page 2 Michael Urmann reported the written order is to maintain and tag the fire extinguishers; the order is not to provide them. The Fire Mazshall under the fire code has the right to require fire extinguishers. It is the Fire Mazshall's opinion that they aze required in this location. Mr. Strathman asked does the Fire Mazshall have a solution regazding the disappearing fire eatinguishers. Mr. Urmann responded the Fire Marshall's opinion is there aze products on the market to secure the fire ea�tinguishers. The Fire Mazshall's concern is the combustible load within the building. Also, a fire extinguisher is used for egress of the building by the occupants and not used so much to put out a fire. Mr. Strathman stated the deficiency list does not show there is a requirement for a certain number of fire eatinguishers. Mr. Urmann responded the extinguishers are in place, but they are required to be maintained on an annual basis. That is why he fails to understand what the appeal is about. Mr. Strathman asked is he intending to remove the extinguishers. Mr. Strassener responded there are plenty of ways for people to get out. The problem is when someone lifts up the hood of a tnu�lc to put out a fire, and the oxygen sets the fire off fitrther. If they blow off the gas line or a transmission line with the fire extinguisher, fluid is spilled, and the fire can go out further. Mr. Strathman asked are fire ea�tinguishers there now. Mr. Strassener responded he has seven buses that rotate back and forth from the airport. All seven buses have a fire eatinguisher. He does have a huge one in the office that is more efficient. Mr. Strathman asked is it the fire department's contention that they aze not being maintained. Mr. Urmann responded they have to be maintained annually, and they are not at this time. Mr. Strassener stated if he doesn't replace the stolen ones, Mr. Urmann will give him another tag, and then Mr. Strassener will haue to come before the hearing officer again. Mr. Strathman responded he does not know what Fire Prevention wiil do if the extinguishers are removed, but he cannot decide it until it happens. Again, Fire Prevention just wants to make sure they are tested. Gerry Strathman denied the appeal on the Certificate of Occupancy dated February 7, 2002. 576 SnellingAvenue South Gerry Strathman sent a letter to the owner with the following decision: Appeal granted on the nonconforniing doors on the following conditions: 1) if the nonconfonning doors ever need to be replaced, they will be replaced with conforming fire rated door assemblies, 2) the building will otherwise be maintained in compliance with all applicable codes and ordinances. 584 Snellin�Avenue South Gerry Strathman sent a letter to the owner with the following decision: Appeal granted on the nonconforxning doors on the following condirions: 1) if the nonconfomung doors ever need to be o�=Z PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTES OF MARCH 12, 2002 Page 3 replaced, they wiil be replaced with confornung fire rated door assemblies, 2) the building will otherwise be maintained in compliance with all applicable codes and ordinances. 500 Fr�Street Gerry Strathman sent a letter to the owner with the following decision: Appeal granted on the nonconforming doors on the following condifions: 1) if the nonconforxning doors ever need to be replaced, they will be repiaced with conforming fire rated door assemblies, 2) the building will otherwise be maintained in compliance with a11 applicable codes and ordinances. 1880 Grand Avenue: 859. 869. 87'1. 885 St. Paul Avenue: 880. 890. 896. 908. 924 Cleveland Avenue South: 2047 Saunders Avenue Gerry Strathman sent a letter to the owner with the following decision: Appeal granted on the nonconforming doors on the following conditions: 1) if the nonconforming doors ever need to be replaced, they will be replaced with conforming fire rated door assemblies, 2) the building wili otherwise be maintained in compliance with all applicable codes and ordinances. 1319 Pierce Butler Route James A. Kilbane III, owner, appeared. He presented photographs to Gerry Strathman. In the welding azea of his building, he stated, there were fans that circulated the air. He decided to make their own filter boxes to improve the quality of the air. These boxes haue a prefilter to take out the fiunes. There is a bag filter underneath it to take the dust out of the air. They built them and installed them. They had an elechician get a permit and hook them up. Now, Mr. Kilbane's company is being cited because the units were not designed by an engineering firm and were not installed by a qualified installer. His concem is a metal fabrication company. They build systems like this for resale. Ron Haider reported he went to 1319 Pierce Bufler to do an inspecfion because an addition was put on the building. As he was going through the plant, he saw an air filtration system. This work requires a permit and requires to be installed by a license contractor. He put a red stop work tag on the system. Mr. Strathman asked why a permit is required. NIr. Haider responded there are certain standards for installation. He did not inspect it, but he did see a couple of things that were in violation of the code; for example, there was a connector that did not meet flame and smoke requirements. Mr. Strathman asked could the system be modified to be in compliance with the code. Mr. Haider responded yes and he did not tliivk it would take a lot of work to get it fixed properly. Mr. Strathman asked what he is looking for by way of solution. Mr. Haider responded a permit is needed for the installation and a licensed contractor to fix the things that would be wrong. The permit fee is i% of the value of the work, with a minimum of $42, and then there is a surcharge for the State. Mr. Kilbane stated he was not aware that he needed a pernut. His issue is that he oZ. PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT NOTES OF MARCH 12, 2002 Page 4 wouid have to hire a contractor to design, build, and install this system when it is already done. They haue built things like this for customers who have come in with systems like this. Mr. Strathman asked would it meet the City's needs if Mr. Kilbane pulled a pemut, the inspector looked at it, and Mr. Kilbane made the conections. Mr. Haider responded Mr. Kilbane could not get a permit because he is not licensed for that kind of work. Given that the city ordinance requires a permit and licensed contractor, asked Mr. Strathman, is he asking that he be given an exception. Mr. Kilbane responded he would not say that. He had fans that were bolted to the walls of the building. Ail they did was put filters on these fans, change the configuration, and put them in filter boxes. He is willing to take the system apart and redoing it to their standazds. Mr. Strathman asked would he prefer to not pay the contractor and do it himself. Mr. Haider concurred. Mr. Strathman asked is there anything in the code about doing work on one's own property. Mr. Olson responded in one's own dwelling unit. Mr. Haider said another exception is a portable unit. What if he made his units portable and detached them from the wall, responded Mr. Kilbane. Mr. Strathman stated that Mr. Kilbane made these himself so they probably don't meet that standard. Anyway, it is silly to put them on wheels and call them portable. Mr. Strathman asked would a contractor charge a large fee to look at these things. Mr. Kilbane responded he had a contractor look at this and he did not want to touch the issue, but would build a completely new system. This is a contractor they have worked with before. Mr. Stathman stated the City does have some liability to make sure things are done properly. Mr. Olson responded it is a ventilation system to protect his workers. If it was installed according to code, it would haue to be vented to the eacterior of the building. Is he correct in understanding, asked Mr. Strathman, that if the unit was disconnected, then eveiything would be okay. Mr. Olson responded there is no clear language saying there has to be ventilation in a weiding azea. If there were open flames, the fire code may have some requirements. There could be some federal requirements; however, there are not any concerns within the mechanical and building codes. Mr. Strathman stated if the appeal is denied, there aze two options: the owner can find a contractor to do the work or he can disconnect it. Mr. Kilbane responded that he does not want his employees subjected to that smoke. The other option is to open an egress door and put a fan nea�t to it. oZ PROPERTY COAE ENFORCEMENT NOTES OF MARCH 12, 2�02 Page 5 Gerry Strathman denied the appeal on the February 27, 2002, LIEP notice. They aze faced with a code that has certain requirements having to do with health and safety issues. The owner knows what his options aze. 935 Case Avenue Theodore J. Schneider, owner, appeazed and stated he would like a variance. He has two efficiency apartments in this seven unit building, which was built in 1910. These efficiencies have bathrooms outside these aparnnents. He purchased the properry last year. Michael Urmann reported that Pat Fish (Fire Prevention) does not oppose the appeal being granted. Gerry Strathman granted the appeal on the Deficiency List dated Febniary 27, 2002. 727 Front Avenue Jim Schauer, representing New Mech Companies, appeared and stated he is here to appeal the double charge of the pernut fee. Before he had plans submitted, he asked Chris Cahill for a time frame on getting them approved. He was told up to two weeks. He dropped the plans off. Two weeks later, he got a cali requesting more materiaL He dropped the plan off on Friday, February 1. Public Housing Agency wanted to do a mock up of the room. This is a 20 story highrise. He called Wednesday, February 6 to check on the status of the drawings. Pipe was delivered on Wednesday, February 6, and installarion was started on the mockup on February 7. At the February 8 weekly progress meeting, he was told Mr. Cahill had not seen any major problems with the drawings. The City inspected Tuesday. They were trying to meet the deadiine, stated Mr. Schauer. He should have done better about contacting the City. Gerry Strathman asked when he got the pemut. Mr. Schauer responded the 12th. Mr. Strathman stated he started the installation on February 8 and had the permit on Febrnary 12. There were two days--Friday and Monday--that he was doing work without a permit. Chris Cahill stated the fine as specified in the Legislative Code seems to be excessive in this case. The company did start beforehand. The City has a good working relationship with New Mech. Mr. Strathman recommends the penalty be reduced from $1,450.00 to $725.00. The meeting was adjourned at 222 p.m. rrn Page 1 of i o a - a-� Nancy Anderson - Item 13 From: Racquel Naylor To: Anderson, Nancy; Stratbman, Gerry Date: 3/20/2002 8:32 AM Subject: Item 13 CC: Rider, Chris There is a mistake on Item 13 on the agenda. 2750 Seventh Street West should be 1465 Davern Street. There was a mistake in the paperwork I received, and I didn't catch it in time. I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. -Racquel, 6-8573 file:flC:\WINDOWS\TEMP\GW}00004.HTM 3/2Q/2Q02