98-324�r�.e.`�.� — ' � r��� `��
O R ����� � CITY OF SAINT PAULOMINNESOTA
n�fi
Presented
Referred To
Council File # °l 8 -3�
Green Sheet # 60785
37
Committee Date
1 BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Saint Paul hereby certifies and approves the Apri17, 1998
2 decision of the L.egaslative Hearing Officer:
3 Property Ap�ealed
4 860 Vandalia Street (Rescheduled from 3-17-98)
5 Decision: L.egislative Heazing Officer laid over to May 5.
6 1511 Rose Avenue East
A epp llant
Gourmet Award Foods
Therese Erickson
7 Decision: L.egislative Hearing Officer granted the appeal with respect to the windows. The furnace issue will be
8 laid over to May 5.
9 594-6 Reanev Avenue
Donald Roth
10 Decision: L.egislative Hearing Officer denied the appeal but changed the vacate order to April 30. If the window
ll is not replaced by then, the unit will have to be vacated.
12 620 Bates Avenue
William Wilcox
13 Decision: L.egislative Hearing Officer granted the appeal based on the owner's representation that the shucture it
14 is a car port and not a garage. The owner will have to abide by the code with respect to caz ports.
IS
16
17
L.egislative Heazing
� �� U'c�c�
Greif Brother Corporation
the appeal.
�y 31���1�$ � c�e�`°\ish� 1a y� c,r e, 3C �`Iq8'•
�— James Lynden, Kathryn and 7ohn Lynden
18 Decisioin: Legislative Hearing Officer granted the appeal.
19 200 N. Mississinni River Boulevard #4AB
20 Decision: I.egislafive Hearing Officer granted the appeal.
21 1005 Sherburne Avenue
Pam and Leonard Fricke
Martin Kunde
22 Decision: Legislafive Aeazing Officer waived the vacant building fee for 60 days.
551 Barge Channel Road
1
ORlGINAL
1 390 N. Lesineton Parkwav
2 Decision: Lzgislative Hearing Off'icer granted the appeal.
3 1853 Ielehart Avenue
4 Decision: Legislative Hearing Officer granted the appeal.
5 1607 Hewitt Avenne
6 The owner withdrew his appeal.
7 1336 Hewitt Avenue (Laid over from 1-20-98)
8 Decision: I,egislative Hearing Officer denied the appeal.
9 427 Charles Avenue
10 Decision: I.egislative Hearing Officer denied the appeal.
11 430 Blair Street
12 Decision: L.egislative Hearing Officer denied the appeai.
13 479 IQlehart Avenue
14 Decision: I.egislative Hearing Officer denied the appeal.
15 673 Burr Street
16 Decision: L.egislative Hearing Officer denied the appeal.
Joseph Sandhofer
: . :.
Mike Schtnid
Mike Schmid
Allan Ige
Rolando Mero
Daniel Dobson
MidAinerica Bank
c��.�a�
17 Note: Appeals of 614 Western Avenue and 974 Sylvan Street had been withdrawn prior to the meeting.
2
o�F -�zy
ORlGINAL
1
2
3
4
5
6
�
Yeas Na s Absent
Blakey �
Coleman ✓
Hazris f
Benanav �
Reiter �
Bostrom
L�,� �
Requested by Department of:
�
Fonm Approved by Ciry Attorney
�
8 Adopted by Council: Date o �, r V 1.4 Approved by Mayor for Submission to Council
9 Adopdon C ified by Council Secr 6 g
10 By:
l 1 Approved by Maqor: Date 5 I i
l2 By: f
3
Citv Council Offices
Dan Bostxom, 266-8660
April 22 Public Hearing
DAiE INITNT
4115J98
NUMB@tFOR
ROVi1NG
OROER
TOTAL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES
GREEN SHEET
oEr�ai�rnwccto¢
q�-���,
No 60785
mawiom.
ancawc�
� afr�nouzr ❑ arce�uc
❑RiY1Li111.iFRNCqOR ❑ALWMLiE1MKCi6
❑ WYOR(dt/.tflfl.�M� ❑
(CLIP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATURE)
Approving the decision of the Legislative Hearing Officer on Property Code Enforcement App
for property located at: 860 Vandalia Street, 1511 E. Rose Avenue, 594-6 Reaney Avenue,
620 Bates Avenue, 551 Barge Channel Road, 599 Grand Avenue, 200 N. Mississippi River B1vd
�64AB, 1005 Sherburne Avenue, 390 N. Lexington Parkway, 1853 Iglehart Avenue, 1607 Hewitt
AVenue, 1336 Hewitt Avenue, 427 Charles Avenue, 430 Blair Street, 479 Iglehart Avenue, 673
Burr Street. This meeting was held April 7, 1998
PLANNING COMMISSION
GB CAMMITTEE
CIVIL SERYICE COMMISSION
Hss uils ae�soMrm evu woAcea wwer a camactr« mis departnem?
vES NO
Flss this cewon/firm eHer been a cityy emptoyee7
YES NO
Dces this persoMtm poesess a sitill riU normallypossessed by anY artent city emDbyee?
YES NO
Is tM1is personfifm a tarpetetl venUOR
YES NO
� s y„
APR 15 19�
IF
SOURCE
COST/REVENU88UDOET6D(LYRCLEON�
ACTNIiY NUTABER
VES NO
INFORMATION (IXPVJ�
��..�ti�
MINiITES OF PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT MEETING
Apri17, 1998
Room 33Q City Aall
Gerry Strathman, I.egislative Hearing Officer
STAFF PRESENT: John Betz, Properiy Code Enforcement; Pat Fish, Fire Prevention; Dick
Lippert, Fire Prevention; Philip Owens, Fire Prevention; James Priil, Public Health
Gerry Strathman, L.egislafive Hearing Officer, called the meeting to order at 130 pm.
860 Vandalia Street (Rescheduled from 3-17-98)
Susan Steinwall of Fredrikson and Byron, attorney for tenant, appeazed. A continuance was
asked for in December so that Mountain 5tar could be retained to review the Fire Department's
order. The warehouse is outgrown and other warehouse space was been leased in two other
locations. Gourmet Awazd Foods is operating out of three warehouses now. The lease has been
terminated and they wiil be moving March 31, 1999. A new location should be idenfified
shortly. The process of moving from three warehouse locations is an elaborate process. Over
6,OQ0 items need to be moved.
Michael O'Hara, licensed Fire Protection Engineer from Mountain Star, appeared and stated the
facility has been analyzed. If this building continues as a high piled storage facility, it should
have sprinkler protection. The cost would be over $250,000 to install one. Mr. O'Hara
recommended to his client that a facility be found Chat would provide the optimal level of
property protection, life safety, and risk management. Mr. O'Hara propased a 24 hours a day,
seven days a week, fire watch in the building. A fire watch is common in industrial occupancies.
This building also has an eazly warning smoke detection system.
Gerry Strathman asked was there a way to reduce the intensity of using the building and use
some other kind of storage instead. Michael O'Haza responded it would b� a serious economic
challenge. The commodities are not at the end of the hazard scale; they are mainly food
products.
Susan Steinwall stated as soon as the lease is found at the new location, the height of the stack
will be reduced. She requested any enforcement of this matter be dismissed or laid over.
Philip Owens reported he has not had a chance to evaluate the proposal because this is the first he
has heard of it. Some of the indicators are plausible. Their commodity could be managed better.
A lot of the commodities are Class 2 and are stacked high. Mr. Owens suggested the Fire
Department review the proposal. A fire watch is used typically during short periods of time
when a system is out of service, however this building does not haue a system. It is unsure what
the guard could do beyond what the smoke detector system is already doing.
Gerty Strathman recommended laying over to May 5.
a � -��`�
MINUTES OF PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT MEETIIVG OF 4-7-98 Page 2
1511 Rose Avenue East
Therese Erickson, owner, appeared and stated this property was built in 1902. She was told the
windows are no longer large enough for an egress.
Pat Fish reported these windows do not meet the 5.7 square feet of openable azea.
Gerry Strathman granted the vaziance with respect to the escape windows.
Therese Erickson stated this building has twelve furnaces and when it was built, it had two
chimney azeas on one side and the other side had an air intake. Each furnace has outside air
intake so each air intake duct services six furnaces on each side of the building. The inspector
said this does not meet code. Ms. Erickson asked for the code, but the inspector said she did not
have to supply it, Ms. Erickson called the companies that service her furnaces and neither
company had heazd of anyone putting in separate air intakes or installing dampers. The city
maintenance engineers had not heard of this either. The inspector said she would have an
engineer look at this, but Ms. Erickson has never been contacted about one wanting to enter the
building. She hired an engineer herself who issued her a letter.
Pat Fish reviewed the letter. There was an aspect that Therese Erickson was not aware of, which
is the fire separation issue between the units. It is not just a duct, but an open grill in each unit
that ulfimately opens into the other units in the building. Ms. Fish and Ms. Erickson discussed
options. Ms. Erickson stated she needs to find out how much this will cost.
Gerry Strathman laid over the furnace issue to May 5. The vuiance is granted with respect to the
windows.
594-6 Reanev Avenue
Donald Roth, owner, appeared and stated he has owned the property for five years. The
basement window needs to be replaced with an egress window. His brother is now living in the
basement. Gerry Strathman asked how much time was needed. Mr. Roth responded maybe six
weeks.
Dick Lippert, Inspector, appeazed and stated compromises should not be made on life safety
issues. If six weeks is all Donald Roth needed, this project could have been done by now
because the original vacate date was February 18. Mr. Roth responded he did not know he could
be doing the project befare filing the appeal. Gerry Strathman asked could his brother find
another residence until the project is done. Mr. Roth responded this would be difficult in the
middle of the month.
Gerry Strathman denied the appeal but changed the vacate order to April 30. If the window is not
replaced by then, the unit will have to be vacated.
ai8 �sy
MINiJTES OF PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT MEETING OF 4-7-98 Page 3
620 Bates Avenue
Bill Wilcox, owner, appeazed and stated the gazage does not have a door and has not had one
since it was built in the 1930's. ff there was a door on the garage, it could not be closed if an
average sized car was in there.
Jim Prill, Public Health, reported he did not take measurements, but it as a two cat garage. He
presented pictures to Gezry Strathman. If the building is designed for a door, it is required to
have a door. Essentially, the gazage is being used for a caz port. In that case, it would not be
considered a storage building, but a vehicle shelter. Also, inoperable vehicles could not be stored
under a car port.
Geiry Strathman stated it is unusual to have a gazage wide enough for 2 cazs but not long enough
for one. The option is for the owner to consider it a gazage and instali a door. If the owner wants
it to be a caz port, it cannot be used.far storage, unlicensed vehicles, or refuse.
Bili Wilcox decided to call it a car port. Jim Prill stated he will clarify with the owner what
cannot be stored there.
Gerry Strathman granted the appeal based on the owner's representation that the structure is a car
port and not a garage.
551 Barge Channel Road
Paul Hultisek appeared and stated they are appealing Buildings 1 and 4. There was a notice of
condemnation received on February 20. The Fire Department gaue them until March 3 to correct
the deficiencies. The repairs by the structural engineer would not be completed in that time
frame. The business completed the structural analysis by engineers. It was found that necessary
repairs would need to be completed by detailed structural analysis by an engineering company.
After that, contractors would have to be contacted for building a new site. After receiving all
those quotations and costs, it would have to be determined what would be the most cost effective
avenue to maintain the operations and determine the cost of moving to a new location and storing
machinery during demolition. Then they would be able to decide if it should be repaired,
demolished, or rebuilt. If the safety inspector does not grant an extension, they would have to
shut down operations and 32 employees would be out of work. Mr. Aultisek stated they are
asking for a extension to May 31.
Todd Peterson stated two new bniidings were built in the last fifteen yeazs. One of the buildings
in quesCion is old and has been leaning for twenty years.
Gerry Strathman asked is it correct that a structural engineer has been hired but a structural
analysis has not been done. Paul Hultisek responded two structural engineers were hired to give
an analysis of the structure. The first engineer quoted $18,000 for a shuctural review without
q8'-��-`i
MINUTES OF PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT MEETIlVG OF 4-7-98 Page 4
any repairs. Another structural engineer stated the best thing to do is demolish the building and
stazt from scratch. A tornado or a heavy snow load may bring it down.
Philip Owens reported he had not seen the comments from the engineer. Paul Hultisek eluded to
not being abie to complete the operations in the 30 days allotted, however they were first told to
ptovide the structural analysis. 'I`he condemnafion is subsequent to them failing to obtain the
structutal analysis because the Fire Department thought the building was in a structural peril.
John Spriggs stated the building has been leaning for 27 years. Inspectors had never mentioned
the leaning building until October.
Gerry 5trathman denied the appeal citing this matter has gone on long enough. There has been
ample opporiunity to get the analysis done.
599 Grand Avenue
James Lynden, owner, appeared and stated the inspector Mike Ricketson wanted a smoke
detector in the basement and having it connected to the smoke detector on the Third Floor. This
is a three story house. Previous inspectors did not ask for this. Other buildings Mr. Lynden
owns are not required to have this. Mr. Lynden stated the language from the IJFC has the "may"
instead of "shall" and perhaps the inspector is reading It wrong. Gerry Strathman responded the
"may" language is common with authorization for the fire mazshail to give him latitute for
enforcement. It is generally interpreted as a requirement.
Pat Fish responded the requirement is far fifteen or mare units or three staries to have a fire
alarm system The handout is the local fire department language, wtuch says fire buildings with
ten or less units may be equipped with a hard wire smoke detector on the top of each stairwell.
This is an exception in lieu of a full fire alarm system with a panel and the pull stations.
Gerry Strathman asked why James Lynden did not want to do this. Mr. Lynden responded this
house was built around the turn of the century. To connect up the third floor smoke alarm with
one in the basement will be circuitous through the walls or outside the building. Mr. Ricketson
was puzzled this had not been found before and suggested Mr. Lynden make this appeal. All the
required smoke detectors aze installed, but they are not interconnected.
Gerry Strathman granted the appeal.
200 N. MisSissipAi River Boulevard #4AB
Pam and L.eonard Fricke appeared. Ms. Fricke stated they aze officers of the association at their
condominium. It was reported that their dtyer was venting into a bathroom exhaust which caused
a roof duct to plug up. The inspector John Wilking and the Frickes worked on a compromise
measure. The Frickes purchased a four inch circumference that vents the heat, humidity, and
o� g -���t
MINUTES OF PROPERTY CODE EI�iFORCEMENT MEETING OF 4-7-98 Page 5
dryer lint into a bucket. The next time Mr. Wilking came into the building, he indicated that he
would have to go ahead and issue a citation, but suggested they appeal based on the size of their
condominium, which is 1900 squaze feet. They would like to vent the dryer to the interior of the
unit. If there are any minor heat, humidity, or lint problems, they can live with that. Their unit
has hard wired smoke detectors.
Pat Fish showed Gerry Strathman a copy of the mechanical code that says all dryers must be
vented to the outside for health reasons.
Gerry Strathman granted the appeal stating he does not see a health or safety hazazd involved
with venting the electrical dryer into the interior of their condominium.
1005 5herburne Avenue
Martin Kunde appeared for his mother who owns the property. His mother would like some time
to get things fixed. Mr. Kunde says he can finish the building in 60 to 90 days.
Gerry Strathman asked was the building vacant now. Martin Kunde responded it was not. Mr.
StraChman stated it is classified as a vacant building.
Gerry Strathman waived the vacant building fee for 60 days. After that, it will have to be paid.
390 N. Le7unaton Parkwav
Joseph Sandhofer, owner, appeared and asked for a variance on the second escape window. To
comply with the order, he would have to dig a pit in the front of the building. This is a brown
stone building that he has restored. The outside walls are full of insulation. The building was
built in 1928. There is a low fire risk. Joseph Sandhofer explained on the map where the
window would be.
Pat Fish reported there is a second bedroom in the basement. An option would be to open up the
wall between the two sleeping rooms or zequire it not to be used as a sleeping room.
Gerry Strathman granted an appeal citing a person has two ways to escape from the bedroom
should a need arise.
1853 Iglehart Avenue
Bryan Ball, owner, appeazed and stated he was told he had to add a hood to the boiler. He had it
inspected by the Snelling Company in March. Mr. Ball presented the letter to Gerry Sisathman.
This letter says in part that the boiler does not require an in-line draft diverter, it passed the fire
safety inspeetion in 1995, and is in good and safe working condition. Also, the boiler is not
broken, but rather made this way.
aF•��
MINUTES OF PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT MEETING OF 4-7-98 Page 6
Pat Fish reported the inspector did look at this unit and felt what was there was not su�cient to
operate the damper. The inspector has a masters license in mechanical work and felt it needed to
be repaired. Gerry Strathman stated there is uouble with the word repair because the boiler is not
broken, but made that way.
Gerry Strathman granted the appeai based on the findings from the Snelling Company with
respect to the boiler. In view of the representation that this is the way the boiler is manufactured
and designed to work, it is unknown what the modification would be.
1601 Hewitt Avenue
Mike Schmid, owner, appeazed and withdrew this appeal.
1336 Hewitt Avenue (Laid over from 1-20-98)
Mike Schmid, owner, appeared and stated the bank is get6ng him a loan for the siding. Much of
the work has been done. The inspectar 7im Prill came out to the address on Apri16 and said the
work was not done. Mr. Schmid asked for an extra sixty days to complete the work. Mr. Schmid
stated he is living at the address.
Jim Prill reported that he looked at the property today, took photographs, and does not see any
work has been done except for the garage vehicle door.
Gerry Strathman denied the appeal citing that on January 20, Mr. Schmid indicated this layover
would give him enough time to complete his repairs. Mr. Strathman is unwilling to grant
additional time.
427 Charles Avenue
Allan Ige, owner, appeared and stated the vacant building fee is due. Mr. Ige requested an
extension. The bdilding is secure. He is not an the position financially to pay the fee.
Gerry Strathman denied the appeal and explained vacant buildings require extra attention by the
City. The policy is to have owners pay $200 to offset the extra costs incurred from monitoring
the buildings. If this building would be ready for occupancy in a week or two, the fee could be
waived for a while, but the building cleaziy will not be ready soon for occupancy.
430 Blair Street
No one appeared; Gerry Strathman denied the appeal.
q�•�}`l
MINUTES OF PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT MEETIIVG OF 4-7-98 Page 7
479 Iglehart Avenue
No one appeazed.
John Betz reported the owner of the above address has built his compost pile by using one wall
of his neighbors gazage.
Gerry Strathman denied the appeal.
673 Burr Street
No one appeared; Gerry Strathman denied the appeal.
Note: Appeals of 614 Western Avenue and 974 Sylvan Street had been withdrawn prior to the
meefing.
The meeting was adjoumed at 3:07 p.m.
�r�.e.`�.� — ' � r��� `��
O R ����� � CITY OF SAINT PAULOMINNESOTA
n�fi
Presented
Referred To
Council File # °l 8 -3�
Green Sheet # 60785
37
Committee Date
1 BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Saint Paul hereby certifies and approves the Apri17, 1998
2 decision of the L.egaslative Hearing Officer:
3 Property Ap�ealed
4 860 Vandalia Street (Rescheduled from 3-17-98)
5 Decision: L.egislative Heazing Officer laid over to May 5.
6 1511 Rose Avenue East
A epp llant
Gourmet Award Foods
Therese Erickson
7 Decision: L.egislative Hearing Officer granted the appeal with respect to the windows. The furnace issue will be
8 laid over to May 5.
9 594-6 Reanev Avenue
Donald Roth
10 Decision: L.egislative Hearing Officer denied the appeal but changed the vacate order to April 30. If the window
ll is not replaced by then, the unit will have to be vacated.
12 620 Bates Avenue
William Wilcox
13 Decision: L.egislative Hearing Officer granted the appeal based on the owner's representation that the shucture it
14 is a car port and not a garage. The owner will have to abide by the code with respect to caz ports.
IS
16
17
L.egislative Heazing
� �� U'c�c�
Greif Brother Corporation
the appeal.
�y 31���1�$ � c�e�`°\ish� 1a y� c,r e, 3C �`Iq8'•
�— James Lynden, Kathryn and 7ohn Lynden
18 Decisioin: Legislative Hearing Officer granted the appeal.
19 200 N. Mississinni River Boulevard #4AB
20 Decision: I.egislafive Hearing Officer granted the appeal.
21 1005 Sherburne Avenue
Pam and Leonard Fricke
Martin Kunde
22 Decision: Legislafive Aeazing Officer waived the vacant building fee for 60 days.
551 Barge Channel Road
1
ORlGINAL
1 390 N. Lesineton Parkwav
2 Decision: Lzgislative Hearing Off'icer granted the appeal.
3 1853 Ielehart Avenue
4 Decision: Legislative Hearing Officer granted the appeal.
5 1607 Hewitt Avenne
6 The owner withdrew his appeal.
7 1336 Hewitt Avenue (Laid over from 1-20-98)
8 Decision: I,egislative Hearing Officer denied the appeal.
9 427 Charles Avenue
10 Decision: I.egislative Hearing Officer denied the appeal.
11 430 Blair Street
12 Decision: L.egislative Hearing Officer denied the appeai.
13 479 IQlehart Avenue
14 Decision: I.egislative Hearing Officer denied the appeal.
15 673 Burr Street
16 Decision: L.egislative Hearing Officer denied the appeal.
Joseph Sandhofer
: . :.
Mike Schtnid
Mike Schmid
Allan Ige
Rolando Mero
Daniel Dobson
MidAinerica Bank
c��.�a�
17 Note: Appeals of 614 Western Avenue and 974 Sylvan Street had been withdrawn prior to the meeting.
2
o�F -�zy
ORlGINAL
1
2
3
4
5
6
�
Yeas Na s Absent
Blakey �
Coleman ✓
Hazris f
Benanav �
Reiter �
Bostrom
L�,� �
Requested by Department of:
�
Fonm Approved by Ciry Attorney
�
8 Adopted by Council: Date o �, r V 1.4 Approved by Mayor for Submission to Council
9 Adopdon C ified by Council Secr 6 g
10 By:
l 1 Approved by Maqor: Date 5 I i
l2 By: f
3
Citv Council Offices
Dan Bostxom, 266-8660
April 22 Public Hearing
DAiE INITNT
4115J98
NUMB@tFOR
ROVi1NG
OROER
TOTAL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES
GREEN SHEET
oEr�ai�rnwccto¢
q�-���,
No 60785
mawiom.
ancawc�
� afr�nouzr ❑ arce�uc
❑RiY1Li111.iFRNCqOR ❑ALWMLiE1MKCi6
❑ WYOR(dt/.tflfl.�M� ❑
(CLIP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATURE)
Approving the decision of the Legislative Hearing Officer on Property Code Enforcement App
for property located at: 860 Vandalia Street, 1511 E. Rose Avenue, 594-6 Reaney Avenue,
620 Bates Avenue, 551 Barge Channel Road, 599 Grand Avenue, 200 N. Mississippi River B1vd
�64AB, 1005 Sherburne Avenue, 390 N. Lexington Parkway, 1853 Iglehart Avenue, 1607 Hewitt
AVenue, 1336 Hewitt Avenue, 427 Charles Avenue, 430 Blair Street, 479 Iglehart Avenue, 673
Burr Street. This meeting was held April 7, 1998
PLANNING COMMISSION
GB CAMMITTEE
CIVIL SERYICE COMMISSION
Hss uils ae�soMrm evu woAcea wwer a camactr« mis departnem?
vES NO
Flss this cewon/firm eHer been a cityy emptoyee7
YES NO
Dces this persoMtm poesess a sitill riU normallypossessed by anY artent city emDbyee?
YES NO
Is tM1is personfifm a tarpetetl venUOR
YES NO
� s y„
APR 15 19�
IF
SOURCE
COST/REVENU88UDOET6D(LYRCLEON�
ACTNIiY NUTABER
VES NO
INFORMATION (IXPVJ�
��..�ti�
MINiITES OF PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT MEETING
Apri17, 1998
Room 33Q City Aall
Gerry Strathman, I.egislative Hearing Officer
STAFF PRESENT: John Betz, Properiy Code Enforcement; Pat Fish, Fire Prevention; Dick
Lippert, Fire Prevention; Philip Owens, Fire Prevention; James Priil, Public Health
Gerry Strathman, L.egislafive Hearing Officer, called the meeting to order at 130 pm.
860 Vandalia Street (Rescheduled from 3-17-98)
Susan Steinwall of Fredrikson and Byron, attorney for tenant, appeazed. A continuance was
asked for in December so that Mountain 5tar could be retained to review the Fire Department's
order. The warehouse is outgrown and other warehouse space was been leased in two other
locations. Gourmet Awazd Foods is operating out of three warehouses now. The lease has been
terminated and they wiil be moving March 31, 1999. A new location should be idenfified
shortly. The process of moving from three warehouse locations is an elaborate process. Over
6,OQ0 items need to be moved.
Michael O'Hara, licensed Fire Protection Engineer from Mountain Star, appeared and stated the
facility has been analyzed. If this building continues as a high piled storage facility, it should
have sprinkler protection. The cost would be over $250,000 to install one. Mr. O'Hara
recommended to his client that a facility be found Chat would provide the optimal level of
property protection, life safety, and risk management. Mr. O'Hara propased a 24 hours a day,
seven days a week, fire watch in the building. A fire watch is common in industrial occupancies.
This building also has an eazly warning smoke detection system.
Gerry Strathman asked was there a way to reduce the intensity of using the building and use
some other kind of storage instead. Michael O'Haza responded it would b� a serious economic
challenge. The commodities are not at the end of the hazard scale; they are mainly food
products.
Susan Steinwall stated as soon as the lease is found at the new location, the height of the stack
will be reduced. She requested any enforcement of this matter be dismissed or laid over.
Philip Owens reported he has not had a chance to evaluate the proposal because this is the first he
has heard of it. Some of the indicators are plausible. Their commodity could be managed better.
A lot of the commodities are Class 2 and are stacked high. Mr. Owens suggested the Fire
Department review the proposal. A fire watch is used typically during short periods of time
when a system is out of service, however this building does not haue a system. It is unsure what
the guard could do beyond what the smoke detector system is already doing.
Gerty Strathman recommended laying over to May 5.
a � -��`�
MINUTES OF PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT MEETIIVG OF 4-7-98 Page 2
1511 Rose Avenue East
Therese Erickson, owner, appeared and stated this property was built in 1902. She was told the
windows are no longer large enough for an egress.
Pat Fish reported these windows do not meet the 5.7 square feet of openable azea.
Gerry Strathman granted the vaziance with respect to the escape windows.
Therese Erickson stated this building has twelve furnaces and when it was built, it had two
chimney azeas on one side and the other side had an air intake. Each furnace has outside air
intake so each air intake duct services six furnaces on each side of the building. The inspector
said this does not meet code. Ms. Erickson asked for the code, but the inspector said she did not
have to supply it, Ms. Erickson called the companies that service her furnaces and neither
company had heazd of anyone putting in separate air intakes or installing dampers. The city
maintenance engineers had not heard of this either. The inspector said she would have an
engineer look at this, but Ms. Erickson has never been contacted about one wanting to enter the
building. She hired an engineer herself who issued her a letter.
Pat Fish reviewed the letter. There was an aspect that Therese Erickson was not aware of, which
is the fire separation issue between the units. It is not just a duct, but an open grill in each unit
that ulfimately opens into the other units in the building. Ms. Fish and Ms. Erickson discussed
options. Ms. Erickson stated she needs to find out how much this will cost.
Gerry Strathman laid over the furnace issue to May 5. The vuiance is granted with respect to the
windows.
594-6 Reanev Avenue
Donald Roth, owner, appeared and stated he has owned the property for five years. The
basement window needs to be replaced with an egress window. His brother is now living in the
basement. Gerry Strathman asked how much time was needed. Mr. Roth responded maybe six
weeks.
Dick Lippert, Inspector, appeazed and stated compromises should not be made on life safety
issues. If six weeks is all Donald Roth needed, this project could have been done by now
because the original vacate date was February 18. Mr. Roth responded he did not know he could
be doing the project befare filing the appeal. Gerry Strathman asked could his brother find
another residence until the project is done. Mr. Roth responded this would be difficult in the
middle of the month.
Gerry Strathman denied the appeal but changed the vacate order to April 30. If the window is not
replaced by then, the unit will have to be vacated.
ai8 �sy
MINiJTES OF PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT MEETING OF 4-7-98 Page 3
620 Bates Avenue
Bill Wilcox, owner, appeazed and stated the gazage does not have a door and has not had one
since it was built in the 1930's. ff there was a door on the garage, it could not be closed if an
average sized car was in there.
Jim Prill, Public Health, reported he did not take measurements, but it as a two cat garage. He
presented pictures to Gezry Strathman. If the building is designed for a door, it is required to
have a door. Essentially, the gazage is being used for a caz port. In that case, it would not be
considered a storage building, but a vehicle shelter. Also, inoperable vehicles could not be stored
under a car port.
Geiry Strathman stated it is unusual to have a gazage wide enough for 2 cazs but not long enough
for one. The option is for the owner to consider it a gazage and instali a door. If the owner wants
it to be a caz port, it cannot be used.far storage, unlicensed vehicles, or refuse.
Bili Wilcox decided to call it a car port. Jim Prill stated he will clarify with the owner what
cannot be stored there.
Gerry Strathman granted the appeal based on the owner's representation that the structure is a car
port and not a garage.
551 Barge Channel Road
Paul Hultisek appeared and stated they are appealing Buildings 1 and 4. There was a notice of
condemnation received on February 20. The Fire Department gaue them until March 3 to correct
the deficiencies. The repairs by the structural engineer would not be completed in that time
frame. The business completed the structural analysis by engineers. It was found that necessary
repairs would need to be completed by detailed structural analysis by an engineering company.
After that, contractors would have to be contacted for building a new site. After receiving all
those quotations and costs, it would have to be determined what would be the most cost effective
avenue to maintain the operations and determine the cost of moving to a new location and storing
machinery during demolition. Then they would be able to decide if it should be repaired,
demolished, or rebuilt. If the safety inspector does not grant an extension, they would have to
shut down operations and 32 employees would be out of work. Mr. Aultisek stated they are
asking for a extension to May 31.
Todd Peterson stated two new bniidings were built in the last fifteen yeazs. One of the buildings
in quesCion is old and has been leaning for twenty years.
Gerry Strathman asked is it correct that a structural engineer has been hired but a structural
analysis has not been done. Paul Hultisek responded two structural engineers were hired to give
an analysis of the structure. The first engineer quoted $18,000 for a shuctural review without
q8'-��-`i
MINUTES OF PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT MEETIlVG OF 4-7-98 Page 4
any repairs. Another structural engineer stated the best thing to do is demolish the building and
stazt from scratch. A tornado or a heavy snow load may bring it down.
Philip Owens reported he had not seen the comments from the engineer. Paul Hultisek eluded to
not being abie to complete the operations in the 30 days allotted, however they were first told to
ptovide the structural analysis. 'I`he condemnafion is subsequent to them failing to obtain the
structutal analysis because the Fire Department thought the building was in a structural peril.
John Spriggs stated the building has been leaning for 27 years. Inspectors had never mentioned
the leaning building until October.
Gerry 5trathman denied the appeal citing this matter has gone on long enough. There has been
ample opporiunity to get the analysis done.
599 Grand Avenue
James Lynden, owner, appeared and stated the inspector Mike Ricketson wanted a smoke
detector in the basement and having it connected to the smoke detector on the Third Floor. This
is a three story house. Previous inspectors did not ask for this. Other buildings Mr. Lynden
owns are not required to have this. Mr. Lynden stated the language from the IJFC has the "may"
instead of "shall" and perhaps the inspector is reading It wrong. Gerry Strathman responded the
"may" language is common with authorization for the fire mazshail to give him latitute for
enforcement. It is generally interpreted as a requirement.
Pat Fish responded the requirement is far fifteen or mare units or three staries to have a fire
alarm system The handout is the local fire department language, wtuch says fire buildings with
ten or less units may be equipped with a hard wire smoke detector on the top of each stairwell.
This is an exception in lieu of a full fire alarm system with a panel and the pull stations.
Gerry Strathman asked why James Lynden did not want to do this. Mr. Lynden responded this
house was built around the turn of the century. To connect up the third floor smoke alarm with
one in the basement will be circuitous through the walls or outside the building. Mr. Ricketson
was puzzled this had not been found before and suggested Mr. Lynden make this appeal. All the
required smoke detectors aze installed, but they are not interconnected.
Gerry Strathman granted the appeal.
200 N. MisSissipAi River Boulevard #4AB
Pam and L.eonard Fricke appeared. Ms. Fricke stated they aze officers of the association at their
condominium. It was reported that their dtyer was venting into a bathroom exhaust which caused
a roof duct to plug up. The inspector John Wilking and the Frickes worked on a compromise
measure. The Frickes purchased a four inch circumference that vents the heat, humidity, and
o� g -���t
MINUTES OF PROPERTY CODE EI�iFORCEMENT MEETING OF 4-7-98 Page 5
dryer lint into a bucket. The next time Mr. Wilking came into the building, he indicated that he
would have to go ahead and issue a citation, but suggested they appeal based on the size of their
condominium, which is 1900 squaze feet. They would like to vent the dryer to the interior of the
unit. If there are any minor heat, humidity, or lint problems, they can live with that. Their unit
has hard wired smoke detectors.
Pat Fish showed Gerry Strathman a copy of the mechanical code that says all dryers must be
vented to the outside for health reasons.
Gerry Strathman granted the appeal stating he does not see a health or safety hazazd involved
with venting the electrical dryer into the interior of their condominium.
1005 5herburne Avenue
Martin Kunde appeared for his mother who owns the property. His mother would like some time
to get things fixed. Mr. Kunde says he can finish the building in 60 to 90 days.
Gerry Strathman asked was the building vacant now. Martin Kunde responded it was not. Mr.
StraChman stated it is classified as a vacant building.
Gerry Strathman waived the vacant building fee for 60 days. After that, it will have to be paid.
390 N. Le7unaton Parkwav
Joseph Sandhofer, owner, appeared and asked for a variance on the second escape window. To
comply with the order, he would have to dig a pit in the front of the building. This is a brown
stone building that he has restored. The outside walls are full of insulation. The building was
built in 1928. There is a low fire risk. Joseph Sandhofer explained on the map where the
window would be.
Pat Fish reported there is a second bedroom in the basement. An option would be to open up the
wall between the two sleeping rooms or zequire it not to be used as a sleeping room.
Gerry Strathman granted an appeal citing a person has two ways to escape from the bedroom
should a need arise.
1853 Iglehart Avenue
Bryan Ball, owner, appeazed and stated he was told he had to add a hood to the boiler. He had it
inspected by the Snelling Company in March. Mr. Ball presented the letter to Gerry Sisathman.
This letter says in part that the boiler does not require an in-line draft diverter, it passed the fire
safety inspeetion in 1995, and is in good and safe working condition. Also, the boiler is not
broken, but rather made this way.
aF•��
MINUTES OF PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT MEETING OF 4-7-98 Page 6
Pat Fish reported the inspector did look at this unit and felt what was there was not su�cient to
operate the damper. The inspector has a masters license in mechanical work and felt it needed to
be repaired. Gerry Strathman stated there is uouble with the word repair because the boiler is not
broken, but made that way.
Gerry Strathman granted the appeai based on the findings from the Snelling Company with
respect to the boiler. In view of the representation that this is the way the boiler is manufactured
and designed to work, it is unknown what the modification would be.
1601 Hewitt Avenue
Mike Schmid, owner, appeazed and withdrew this appeal.
1336 Hewitt Avenue (Laid over from 1-20-98)
Mike Schmid, owner, appeared and stated the bank is get6ng him a loan for the siding. Much of
the work has been done. The inspectar 7im Prill came out to the address on Apri16 and said the
work was not done. Mr. Schmid asked for an extra sixty days to complete the work. Mr. Schmid
stated he is living at the address.
Jim Prill reported that he looked at the property today, took photographs, and does not see any
work has been done except for the garage vehicle door.
Gerry Strathman denied the appeal citing that on January 20, Mr. Schmid indicated this layover
would give him enough time to complete his repairs. Mr. Strathman is unwilling to grant
additional time.
427 Charles Avenue
Allan Ige, owner, appeared and stated the vacant building fee is due. Mr. Ige requested an
extension. The bdilding is secure. He is not an the position financially to pay the fee.
Gerry Strathman denied the appeal and explained vacant buildings require extra attention by the
City. The policy is to have owners pay $200 to offset the extra costs incurred from monitoring
the buildings. If this building would be ready for occupancy in a week or two, the fee could be
waived for a while, but the building cleaziy will not be ready soon for occupancy.
430 Blair Street
No one appeared; Gerry Strathman denied the appeal.
q�•�}`l
MINUTES OF PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT MEETIIVG OF 4-7-98 Page 7
479 Iglehart Avenue
No one appeazed.
John Betz reported the owner of the above address has built his compost pile by using one wall
of his neighbors gazage.
Gerry Strathman denied the appeal.
673 Burr Street
No one appeared; Gerry Strathman denied the appeal.
Note: Appeals of 614 Western Avenue and 974 Sylvan Street had been withdrawn prior to the
meefing.
The meeting was adjoumed at 3:07 p.m.
�r�.e.`�.� — ' � r��� `��
O R ����� � CITY OF SAINT PAULOMINNESOTA
n�fi
Presented
Referred To
Council File # °l 8 -3�
Green Sheet # 60785
37
Committee Date
1 BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Saint Paul hereby certifies and approves the Apri17, 1998
2 decision of the L.egaslative Hearing Officer:
3 Property Ap�ealed
4 860 Vandalia Street (Rescheduled from 3-17-98)
5 Decision: L.egislative Heazing Officer laid over to May 5.
6 1511 Rose Avenue East
A epp llant
Gourmet Award Foods
Therese Erickson
7 Decision: L.egislative Hearing Officer granted the appeal with respect to the windows. The furnace issue will be
8 laid over to May 5.
9 594-6 Reanev Avenue
Donald Roth
10 Decision: L.egislative Hearing Officer denied the appeal but changed the vacate order to April 30. If the window
ll is not replaced by then, the unit will have to be vacated.
12 620 Bates Avenue
William Wilcox
13 Decision: L.egislative Hearing Officer granted the appeal based on the owner's representation that the shucture it
14 is a car port and not a garage. The owner will have to abide by the code with respect to caz ports.
IS
16
17
L.egislative Heazing
� �� U'c�c�
Greif Brother Corporation
the appeal.
�y 31���1�$ � c�e�`°\ish� 1a y� c,r e, 3C �`Iq8'•
�— James Lynden, Kathryn and 7ohn Lynden
18 Decisioin: Legislative Hearing Officer granted the appeal.
19 200 N. Mississinni River Boulevard #4AB
20 Decision: I.egislafive Hearing Officer granted the appeal.
21 1005 Sherburne Avenue
Pam and Leonard Fricke
Martin Kunde
22 Decision: Legislafive Aeazing Officer waived the vacant building fee for 60 days.
551 Barge Channel Road
1
ORlGINAL
1 390 N. Lesineton Parkwav
2 Decision: Lzgislative Hearing Off'icer granted the appeal.
3 1853 Ielehart Avenue
4 Decision: Legislative Hearing Officer granted the appeal.
5 1607 Hewitt Avenne
6 The owner withdrew his appeal.
7 1336 Hewitt Avenue (Laid over from 1-20-98)
8 Decision: I,egislative Hearing Officer denied the appeal.
9 427 Charles Avenue
10 Decision: I.egislative Hearing Officer denied the appeal.
11 430 Blair Street
12 Decision: L.egislative Hearing Officer denied the appeai.
13 479 IQlehart Avenue
14 Decision: I.egislative Hearing Officer denied the appeal.
15 673 Burr Street
16 Decision: L.egislative Hearing Officer denied the appeal.
Joseph Sandhofer
: . :.
Mike Schtnid
Mike Schmid
Allan Ige
Rolando Mero
Daniel Dobson
MidAinerica Bank
c��.�a�
17 Note: Appeals of 614 Western Avenue and 974 Sylvan Street had been withdrawn prior to the meeting.
2
o�F -�zy
ORlGINAL
1
2
3
4
5
6
�
Yeas Na s Absent
Blakey �
Coleman ✓
Hazris f
Benanav �
Reiter �
Bostrom
L�,� �
Requested by Department of:
�
Fonm Approved by Ciry Attorney
�
8 Adopted by Council: Date o �, r V 1.4 Approved by Mayor for Submission to Council
9 Adopdon C ified by Council Secr 6 g
10 By:
l 1 Approved by Maqor: Date 5 I i
l2 By: f
3
Citv Council Offices
Dan Bostxom, 266-8660
April 22 Public Hearing
DAiE INITNT
4115J98
NUMB@tFOR
ROVi1NG
OROER
TOTAL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES
GREEN SHEET
oEr�ai�rnwccto¢
q�-���,
No 60785
mawiom.
ancawc�
� afr�nouzr ❑ arce�uc
❑RiY1Li111.iFRNCqOR ❑ALWMLiE1MKCi6
❑ WYOR(dt/.tflfl.�M� ❑
(CLIP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATURE)
Approving the decision of the Legislative Hearing Officer on Property Code Enforcement App
for property located at: 860 Vandalia Street, 1511 E. Rose Avenue, 594-6 Reaney Avenue,
620 Bates Avenue, 551 Barge Channel Road, 599 Grand Avenue, 200 N. Mississippi River B1vd
�64AB, 1005 Sherburne Avenue, 390 N. Lexington Parkway, 1853 Iglehart Avenue, 1607 Hewitt
AVenue, 1336 Hewitt Avenue, 427 Charles Avenue, 430 Blair Street, 479 Iglehart Avenue, 673
Burr Street. This meeting was held April 7, 1998
PLANNING COMMISSION
GB CAMMITTEE
CIVIL SERYICE COMMISSION
Hss uils ae�soMrm evu woAcea wwer a camactr« mis departnem?
vES NO
Flss this cewon/firm eHer been a cityy emptoyee7
YES NO
Dces this persoMtm poesess a sitill riU normallypossessed by anY artent city emDbyee?
YES NO
Is tM1is personfifm a tarpetetl venUOR
YES NO
� s y„
APR 15 19�
IF
SOURCE
COST/REVENU88UDOET6D(LYRCLEON�
ACTNIiY NUTABER
VES NO
INFORMATION (IXPVJ�
��..�ti�
MINiITES OF PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT MEETING
Apri17, 1998
Room 33Q City Aall
Gerry Strathman, I.egislative Hearing Officer
STAFF PRESENT: John Betz, Properiy Code Enforcement; Pat Fish, Fire Prevention; Dick
Lippert, Fire Prevention; Philip Owens, Fire Prevention; James Priil, Public Health
Gerry Strathman, L.egislafive Hearing Officer, called the meeting to order at 130 pm.
860 Vandalia Street (Rescheduled from 3-17-98)
Susan Steinwall of Fredrikson and Byron, attorney for tenant, appeazed. A continuance was
asked for in December so that Mountain 5tar could be retained to review the Fire Department's
order. The warehouse is outgrown and other warehouse space was been leased in two other
locations. Gourmet Awazd Foods is operating out of three warehouses now. The lease has been
terminated and they wiil be moving March 31, 1999. A new location should be idenfified
shortly. The process of moving from three warehouse locations is an elaborate process. Over
6,OQ0 items need to be moved.
Michael O'Hara, licensed Fire Protection Engineer from Mountain Star, appeared and stated the
facility has been analyzed. If this building continues as a high piled storage facility, it should
have sprinkler protection. The cost would be over $250,000 to install one. Mr. O'Hara
recommended to his client that a facility be found Chat would provide the optimal level of
property protection, life safety, and risk management. Mr. O'Hara propased a 24 hours a day,
seven days a week, fire watch in the building. A fire watch is common in industrial occupancies.
This building also has an eazly warning smoke detection system.
Gerry Strathman asked was there a way to reduce the intensity of using the building and use
some other kind of storage instead. Michael O'Haza responded it would b� a serious economic
challenge. The commodities are not at the end of the hazard scale; they are mainly food
products.
Susan Steinwall stated as soon as the lease is found at the new location, the height of the stack
will be reduced. She requested any enforcement of this matter be dismissed or laid over.
Philip Owens reported he has not had a chance to evaluate the proposal because this is the first he
has heard of it. Some of the indicators are plausible. Their commodity could be managed better.
A lot of the commodities are Class 2 and are stacked high. Mr. Owens suggested the Fire
Department review the proposal. A fire watch is used typically during short periods of time
when a system is out of service, however this building does not haue a system. It is unsure what
the guard could do beyond what the smoke detector system is already doing.
Gerty Strathman recommended laying over to May 5.
a � -��`�
MINUTES OF PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT MEETIIVG OF 4-7-98 Page 2
1511 Rose Avenue East
Therese Erickson, owner, appeared and stated this property was built in 1902. She was told the
windows are no longer large enough for an egress.
Pat Fish reported these windows do not meet the 5.7 square feet of openable azea.
Gerry Strathman granted the vaziance with respect to the escape windows.
Therese Erickson stated this building has twelve furnaces and when it was built, it had two
chimney azeas on one side and the other side had an air intake. Each furnace has outside air
intake so each air intake duct services six furnaces on each side of the building. The inspector
said this does not meet code. Ms. Erickson asked for the code, but the inspector said she did not
have to supply it, Ms. Erickson called the companies that service her furnaces and neither
company had heazd of anyone putting in separate air intakes or installing dampers. The city
maintenance engineers had not heard of this either. The inspector said she would have an
engineer look at this, but Ms. Erickson has never been contacted about one wanting to enter the
building. She hired an engineer herself who issued her a letter.
Pat Fish reviewed the letter. There was an aspect that Therese Erickson was not aware of, which
is the fire separation issue between the units. It is not just a duct, but an open grill in each unit
that ulfimately opens into the other units in the building. Ms. Fish and Ms. Erickson discussed
options. Ms. Erickson stated she needs to find out how much this will cost.
Gerry Strathman laid over the furnace issue to May 5. The vuiance is granted with respect to the
windows.
594-6 Reanev Avenue
Donald Roth, owner, appeared and stated he has owned the property for five years. The
basement window needs to be replaced with an egress window. His brother is now living in the
basement. Gerry Strathman asked how much time was needed. Mr. Roth responded maybe six
weeks.
Dick Lippert, Inspector, appeazed and stated compromises should not be made on life safety
issues. If six weeks is all Donald Roth needed, this project could have been done by now
because the original vacate date was February 18. Mr. Roth responded he did not know he could
be doing the project befare filing the appeal. Gerry Strathman asked could his brother find
another residence until the project is done. Mr. Roth responded this would be difficult in the
middle of the month.
Gerry Strathman denied the appeal but changed the vacate order to April 30. If the window is not
replaced by then, the unit will have to be vacated.
ai8 �sy
MINiJTES OF PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT MEETING OF 4-7-98 Page 3
620 Bates Avenue
Bill Wilcox, owner, appeazed and stated the gazage does not have a door and has not had one
since it was built in the 1930's. ff there was a door on the garage, it could not be closed if an
average sized car was in there.
Jim Prill, Public Health, reported he did not take measurements, but it as a two cat garage. He
presented pictures to Gezry Strathman. If the building is designed for a door, it is required to
have a door. Essentially, the gazage is being used for a caz port. In that case, it would not be
considered a storage building, but a vehicle shelter. Also, inoperable vehicles could not be stored
under a car port.
Geiry Strathman stated it is unusual to have a gazage wide enough for 2 cazs but not long enough
for one. The option is for the owner to consider it a gazage and instali a door. If the owner wants
it to be a caz port, it cannot be used.far storage, unlicensed vehicles, or refuse.
Bili Wilcox decided to call it a car port. Jim Prill stated he will clarify with the owner what
cannot be stored there.
Gerry Strathman granted the appeal based on the owner's representation that the structure is a car
port and not a garage.
551 Barge Channel Road
Paul Hultisek appeared and stated they are appealing Buildings 1 and 4. There was a notice of
condemnation received on February 20. The Fire Department gaue them until March 3 to correct
the deficiencies. The repairs by the structural engineer would not be completed in that time
frame. The business completed the structural analysis by engineers. It was found that necessary
repairs would need to be completed by detailed structural analysis by an engineering company.
After that, contractors would have to be contacted for building a new site. After receiving all
those quotations and costs, it would have to be determined what would be the most cost effective
avenue to maintain the operations and determine the cost of moving to a new location and storing
machinery during demolition. Then they would be able to decide if it should be repaired,
demolished, or rebuilt. If the safety inspector does not grant an extension, they would have to
shut down operations and 32 employees would be out of work. Mr. Aultisek stated they are
asking for a extension to May 31.
Todd Peterson stated two new bniidings were built in the last fifteen yeazs. One of the buildings
in quesCion is old and has been leaning for twenty years.
Gerry Strathman asked is it correct that a structural engineer has been hired but a structural
analysis has not been done. Paul Hultisek responded two structural engineers were hired to give
an analysis of the structure. The first engineer quoted $18,000 for a shuctural review without
q8'-��-`i
MINUTES OF PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT MEETIlVG OF 4-7-98 Page 4
any repairs. Another structural engineer stated the best thing to do is demolish the building and
stazt from scratch. A tornado or a heavy snow load may bring it down.
Philip Owens reported he had not seen the comments from the engineer. Paul Hultisek eluded to
not being abie to complete the operations in the 30 days allotted, however they were first told to
ptovide the structural analysis. 'I`he condemnafion is subsequent to them failing to obtain the
structutal analysis because the Fire Department thought the building was in a structural peril.
John Spriggs stated the building has been leaning for 27 years. Inspectors had never mentioned
the leaning building until October.
Gerry 5trathman denied the appeal citing this matter has gone on long enough. There has been
ample opporiunity to get the analysis done.
599 Grand Avenue
James Lynden, owner, appeared and stated the inspector Mike Ricketson wanted a smoke
detector in the basement and having it connected to the smoke detector on the Third Floor. This
is a three story house. Previous inspectors did not ask for this. Other buildings Mr. Lynden
owns are not required to have this. Mr. Lynden stated the language from the IJFC has the "may"
instead of "shall" and perhaps the inspector is reading It wrong. Gerry Strathman responded the
"may" language is common with authorization for the fire mazshail to give him latitute for
enforcement. It is generally interpreted as a requirement.
Pat Fish responded the requirement is far fifteen or mare units or three staries to have a fire
alarm system The handout is the local fire department language, wtuch says fire buildings with
ten or less units may be equipped with a hard wire smoke detector on the top of each stairwell.
This is an exception in lieu of a full fire alarm system with a panel and the pull stations.
Gerry Strathman asked why James Lynden did not want to do this. Mr. Lynden responded this
house was built around the turn of the century. To connect up the third floor smoke alarm with
one in the basement will be circuitous through the walls or outside the building. Mr. Ricketson
was puzzled this had not been found before and suggested Mr. Lynden make this appeal. All the
required smoke detectors aze installed, but they are not interconnected.
Gerry Strathman granted the appeal.
200 N. MisSissipAi River Boulevard #4AB
Pam and L.eonard Fricke appeared. Ms. Fricke stated they aze officers of the association at their
condominium. It was reported that their dtyer was venting into a bathroom exhaust which caused
a roof duct to plug up. The inspector John Wilking and the Frickes worked on a compromise
measure. The Frickes purchased a four inch circumference that vents the heat, humidity, and
o� g -���t
MINUTES OF PROPERTY CODE EI�iFORCEMENT MEETING OF 4-7-98 Page 5
dryer lint into a bucket. The next time Mr. Wilking came into the building, he indicated that he
would have to go ahead and issue a citation, but suggested they appeal based on the size of their
condominium, which is 1900 squaze feet. They would like to vent the dryer to the interior of the
unit. If there are any minor heat, humidity, or lint problems, they can live with that. Their unit
has hard wired smoke detectors.
Pat Fish showed Gerry Strathman a copy of the mechanical code that says all dryers must be
vented to the outside for health reasons.
Gerry Strathman granted the appeal stating he does not see a health or safety hazazd involved
with venting the electrical dryer into the interior of their condominium.
1005 5herburne Avenue
Martin Kunde appeared for his mother who owns the property. His mother would like some time
to get things fixed. Mr. Kunde says he can finish the building in 60 to 90 days.
Gerry Strathman asked was the building vacant now. Martin Kunde responded it was not. Mr.
StraChman stated it is classified as a vacant building.
Gerry Strathman waived the vacant building fee for 60 days. After that, it will have to be paid.
390 N. Le7unaton Parkwav
Joseph Sandhofer, owner, appeared and asked for a variance on the second escape window. To
comply with the order, he would have to dig a pit in the front of the building. This is a brown
stone building that he has restored. The outside walls are full of insulation. The building was
built in 1928. There is a low fire risk. Joseph Sandhofer explained on the map where the
window would be.
Pat Fish reported there is a second bedroom in the basement. An option would be to open up the
wall between the two sleeping rooms or zequire it not to be used as a sleeping room.
Gerry Strathman granted an appeal citing a person has two ways to escape from the bedroom
should a need arise.
1853 Iglehart Avenue
Bryan Ball, owner, appeazed and stated he was told he had to add a hood to the boiler. He had it
inspected by the Snelling Company in March. Mr. Ball presented the letter to Gerry Sisathman.
This letter says in part that the boiler does not require an in-line draft diverter, it passed the fire
safety inspeetion in 1995, and is in good and safe working condition. Also, the boiler is not
broken, but rather made this way.
aF•��
MINUTES OF PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT MEETING OF 4-7-98 Page 6
Pat Fish reported the inspector did look at this unit and felt what was there was not su�cient to
operate the damper. The inspector has a masters license in mechanical work and felt it needed to
be repaired. Gerry Strathman stated there is uouble with the word repair because the boiler is not
broken, but made that way.
Gerry Strathman granted the appeai based on the findings from the Snelling Company with
respect to the boiler. In view of the representation that this is the way the boiler is manufactured
and designed to work, it is unknown what the modification would be.
1601 Hewitt Avenue
Mike Schmid, owner, appeazed and withdrew this appeal.
1336 Hewitt Avenue (Laid over from 1-20-98)
Mike Schmid, owner, appeared and stated the bank is get6ng him a loan for the siding. Much of
the work has been done. The inspectar 7im Prill came out to the address on Apri16 and said the
work was not done. Mr. Schmid asked for an extra sixty days to complete the work. Mr. Schmid
stated he is living at the address.
Jim Prill reported that he looked at the property today, took photographs, and does not see any
work has been done except for the garage vehicle door.
Gerry Strathman denied the appeal citing that on January 20, Mr. Schmid indicated this layover
would give him enough time to complete his repairs. Mr. Strathman is unwilling to grant
additional time.
427 Charles Avenue
Allan Ige, owner, appeared and stated the vacant building fee is due. Mr. Ige requested an
extension. The bdilding is secure. He is not an the position financially to pay the fee.
Gerry Strathman denied the appeal and explained vacant buildings require extra attention by the
City. The policy is to have owners pay $200 to offset the extra costs incurred from monitoring
the buildings. If this building would be ready for occupancy in a week or two, the fee could be
waived for a while, but the building cleaziy will not be ready soon for occupancy.
430 Blair Street
No one appeared; Gerry Strathman denied the appeal.
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MINUTES OF PROPERTY CODE ENFORCEMENT MEETIIVG OF 4-7-98 Page 7
479 Iglehart Avenue
No one appeazed.
John Betz reported the owner of the above address has built his compost pile by using one wall
of his neighbors gazage.
Gerry Strathman denied the appeal.
673 Burr Street
No one appeared; Gerry Strathman denied the appeal.
Note: Appeals of 614 Western Avenue and 974 Sylvan Street had been withdrawn prior to the
meefing.
The meeting was adjoumed at 3:07 p.m.