HomeMy WebLinkAbout2009/09/21 - ADMIN - Minutes - City Council - Study Session f/f
St. Louis Park OFFICIAL MINUTES
MINNESOTA CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL STUDY SESSION
ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
SEPTEMBER 21, 2009
The meeting convened at 6:45 p.m.
Councilmembers present: Mayor Jeff Jacobs, John Basill, Phil Finkelstein, Loran Paprocki and Sue
Sanger.
Councilmembers absent: C. Paul Carver and Paul Omodt.
Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Harmening), Police Chief (Mr. Luse,) Lieutenant (Mr.
Kraayenbrink), City Prosecutor (Andy Small) and Recording Secretary (Ms. Schmidt)
1. Snow Operations —Tagging and Towing Vehicles
Chief Luse presented the staff report, explaining that less than 5% of the tickets issued are repeat
offenders. Chief Luse introduced City Prosecutor Andy Small.
Mr. Small explained that parking citations range between $27 — $45, depending on the type, and
stated there are uniform amounts used countywide. He further explained that of a $42 fine, there is
an automatic $12 surcharge with the remaining amount ($30) divided between the city (receiving
80%) and the county (receiving 20%). Mr. Small stated District Court staff is not in favor of any
fee changes because of the disruption to uniformity; however, they stated the change could be made.
Chief Luse stated they could make inserts to attach to the citation that lists the fine amount.
Councilmember Finkelstein inquired about administratively prosecuting their own tickets, asking
Mr. Small if he represents any cities doing so.
Mr. Small stated he just represents St. Louis Park, but could look into what other cities are doing
Mayor Jacobs felt printing costs may be a hassle as well and suggested they stay with the current
amount.
Councilmember Sanger asked if they could print different tickets.
Lieutenant Kraayenbrink stated they use a uniform citation for the county that has been set by the
state.
Chief Luse explained the administrative ticket process, stating it would not work for the city. He
suggested a Hearing Officer Program as an option.
Councilmember Finkelstein felt it wasn't worth changing the amount.
Councilmember Sanger asked if they could type a different amount on the citation.
Special Study Session Minutes -2- September 21, 2009
Mr. Small stated they couldn't legally alter the standard citation.
Councilmember Paprocki felt they should keep the fee as it is.
Councilmember Basill thanked staff for checking into the matter, further stating it didn't make good
sense to change the process for the amount of work involved and suggested people be responsible
good neighbors, keeping good communication.
Councilmember Sanger asked if they could increase the amount for repeat offenders.
Mr. Small stated they could, but then again it would be problematic for District Court staff, as well
as requiring special ordinances being passed by Council.
It was the consensus of the City Council to stay with the current fine amount.
The meeting adjourned at 7:05 p.m. 7
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