HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015/04/27 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - City Council - Study SessionAGENDA
APRIL 27, 2015
(Mayor Jacobs Out)
6:30 p.m.
RECONVENE 2015 LOCAL BOARD OF APPEAL & EQUALIZATION – Council Chambers
Immediately following LBAE
CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION – Community Room
Discussion Items
1. 5 min. Future Study Session Agenda Planning – May 4 and May 11, 2015
2. 45 min. 4900 Excelsior Development Update (Former Bally Total Fitness Site)
5 min. Communications/Meeting Check-In (Verbal)
Written Reports
3. SWLRT Updates
4. Compensation and Personnel Programs
5. Health in the Park Update
6. 13th Lane and Texas Avenue MnDOT Parcels
7. Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design
Guidelines Study
8. March 2015 Monthly Financial Report
9. First Quarter Investment Report (Jan – Mar 2015)
10. 2015/2016 Neighborhood Grants
11. Refunding of Park Nicollet Private Activity Revenue Bonds and Host Approval
Auxiliary aids for individuals with disabilities are available upon request.
To make arrangements, please call the Administration Department at
952/924-2525 (TDD 952/924-2518) at least 96 hours in advance of meeting.
2015 Local Board of Appeal and Equalization
Reconvene – April 27, 2015
City Council Chambers
6:30 p.m.
Reconvene Meeting of April 27, 2015 Page 2
Title: 2015 Local Board of Appeal and Equalization
Table of Contents
Page #
3 Proposed Agenda
(This page will be printed and supplied to the Board Chair at the meeting.)
4-5 Background & Focal Points for the Board
6 Overview of All Appeals for Board Action
(This page will be printed 11x17 and handed out to the Board at the meeting.)
7-9 Jurgensen Appeal – Materials as Submitted by Owner
10-23 Jurgensen Appeal – Staff Report
24-38 Podany Appeal – Staff Report
(Owner did not supply materials for the Board report.)
Reconvene Meeting of April 27, 2015 Page 3
Title: 2015 Local Board of Appeal and Equalization
2015 Local Board of Appeal and Equalization
PROPOSED AGENDA
1. Reconvene the St. Louis Park Local Board of Appeal and Equalization
2. Roll Call – Declaration of Quorum
3. Acknowledgement of Trained Members (Sanger, Mavity, Lindberg & Brausen)
4. Acknowledgement of Assessing Staff Members in Attendance
5. Review of Properties in Appeal
a. Board Action - Where Petitioner & Assessor are Not in Agreement
b. Board Action - Where Petitioner & Assessor are in Mutual Agreement
c. Board Action - Where Petitioner has withdrawn their appeal or denied access
Please note… individual action on each appeal is required per DOR direction
6. Instruct Assessor to Complete Record of Changes for Submittal
7. Instruct Assessor to Inform Petitioners of Board Action via Mail
8. Complete the Local Board of Appeal and Equalization Certification Form
9. Adjourn
Reconvene Meeting of April 27, 2015 Page 4
Title: 2015 Local Board of Appeal and Equalization
BACKGROUND for the 2015 St. Louis Park Local Board of Appeal and Equalization
All property owners are entitled to the right of appeal regarding their classification and market
value. The City is required by statute to conduct a Local Board of Appeal & Equalization
meeting to hear appeals, an open book meeting or transfer the Board to the County.
The focus of the board is on: the property classification which is determined by the property’s
use; and, the market value which is based on a) the characteristics of the real estate and b)
market conditions as of the date of the assessment (January 2, 2015). Minnesota statute requires
that all properties are to be valued at full market value. The two dominant definitions of market
value are:
MN Statute 272.03 – “Market value” means the usual selling price at the place where the
property to which the term is applied shall be at the time of assessment; being the price
which could be obtained at a private sale or an auction sale, if it is determined by the
assessor that the price from the auction sale represents an arm’s length transaction. The
price obtained at a forced sale shall not be considered.
Appraisal Institute – The most probable price, as of a specified date, in cash or in terms
equivalent to cash, or in other precisely revealed terms, for which the specified property
rights should sell after reasonable exposure in a competitive market under all conditions
requisite to a fair sale, with the buyer and seller each acting prudently, knowledgeably,
and for self-interest, and assuming that neither is under undue duress. (The Appraisal of
Real Estate, 13th Edition, Appraisal Institute [2008], page 23)
The Board convened on April 13, 2015 at which meeting a total of twenty-nine (29) parcels were
recognized to be under appeal. The Board set the process and chose to reconvene April 27, 2015
to hear the merit of each appeal and to rule on them individually.
A few housekeeping observations are made for the reference of the board.
• One trained and certified Board member (Sanger, Mavity, Lindberg or Brausen) must be
present at each meeting the Board is in session.
• It is essential that the Board rules on each question before it and likewise that the Board
recognizes that it can reduce, sustain or increase valuations as deemed necessary.
• The time window for the board to conclude business is 20 days after convening (deadline
for completion is May 2, 2015).
• Prior to adjourning the board should instruct the assessor to submit a record of their
actions on the Department of Revenue required form.
• Finally, the Local Board of Appeal Certification Form must be signed at each Board
meeting by all Board members present.
Background to Valuation Methodologies: The statistical modeling associated with the mass
assessment accommodates variations between neighborhoods, within neighborhoods and
includes consideration of location, age, style, size, finish materials, condition, updating, etc.
depending on the information available. As part of the informal review process, staff frequently
re-inspects properties to review the accuracy of our data. Adjustments and valuation change
orders have been made where necessary. In cases where the revaluation does not result in a
reduction, the appeal process has been outlined.
Reconvene Meeting of April 27, 2015 Page 5
Title: 2015 Local Board of Appeal and Equalization
The Local Board process differs from mass valuation modeling in that the assessing staff refines
the anal ysis by direct comparison of the property under appeal to the market indications. As
such, the Local Board depends on active participation from all parties involved including the
board members, the property owner and assessing staff. All property owners are requested to
state their basis of appeal, their opinion of the market value and informed that they may present
information supporting their opinion of value and/or classification. The assessing staff in turn
re-inspects the property and/or visits with the owner in order to verify the physical characteristics
forming the analysis basis followed by a re-appraisal of the subject property. Staff also engages
the owner in discussion to review the appeal question(s) and to reach agreement where possible
before the board reconvenes.
Focal Points for the Board – Agenda as Indicated on Cover Sheet, decisions on:
1. Board Action - review and decision on the classification and/or valuation of properties
where agreement between the owner and assessing staff has not been reached. Two (2)
appeals have been reviewed but have not been resolved to a mutual agreement
between the property owner and the assessing staff. It is requested that the Board hear
and decide the merits of each case. We have informed each property owner that the Board
will allow 5-10 minutes for their presentation followed by a 3-5 minute presentation by
the assessing staff. The Board may adjust these time allowances as needed.
2. Board Action – review and decision on cases where the owner and assessing staff have
reached mutual agreement. Twenty-three (23) appeals have been reviewed with the
result that the property owner and assessing staff have reached a mutually
acceptable valuation (no classifications were appealed). It is requested that the Board
take individual action affirming the mutually agreed upon valuation.
3. Board Action - for cases where the petitioner has withdrawn or denied access. The right of
withdrawal or to deny access is at the owner’s discretion. One (1) appellant has chosen
to withdraw. One (1) appellant holding three (3) properties has not responded to
inspection requests and we must recommend to the Board that you should not make
a beneficial value change in cases where access has been denied.
Following your decision, each property owner will be notified via letter which will be mailed
within two days following board adjournment. This is done to allow sufficient time for the
owner to contemplate an appeal to the County Board of Appeal and Equalization. The Hennepin
County Board of Appeal and Equalization begins June 15, 2015. An application is required no
later than May 20, 2015. To appear before the County Board, all appellants must first have
appealed to the St. Louis Park Board of Appeal and Equalization. Property owners may also
appeal directly to the Minnesota State Tax Court.
Thank you for serving on the Board.
Prepared by: St. Louis Park Assessing Staff
Cory Bultema, City Assessor
2015 Reference Appealed Assessing Owner Board
Name Property Address Property ID #Classification 2014 Value 2015 Value Revaluation Indicated Action
Stan Jurgensen 2309 Westridge La 31-029-24-21-0029 RL - Residential 475,000 499,900 499,900 Appeal
Podany via Representative 1700 State Hwy 100 31-029-24-22-0001 I - Industrial 2,194,000 3,059,000 3,059,000 Appeal
Marge & Jeffrey Prohofsky 1650 Utah Dr 06-117-21-44-0068 R - Residential 269,500 296,600 275,000 Agreement
Nick Peschges 9415 Cedar Lake Rd 07-117-21-32-0008 RL - Residential 298,200 315,800 225,000 Agreement
Sherri Larson 8511 28th St W 07-117-21-43-0072 RL - Residential 335,100 335,100 319,000 Agreement
Terry Soltan Krider 2806 Boone Ave S 07-117-21-43-0083 R - Residential 345,100 390,100 372,000 Agreement
Kelsey Gregory 7030 24th St W 08-117-21-13-0079 R - Residential 275,500 321,400 300,000 Agreement
P Nguyen 2309 Texas Ave S 08-117-21-23-0119 R - Residential 245,000 266,900 250,000 Agreement
Carl Johnson 2901 Pennsylvania Ave S 08-117-21-34-0158 R - Residential 280,300 382,100 335,000 Agreement
Wayne Boe 2600 Dakota Ave S 08-117-21-41-0002 R - Residential 164,200 190,500 142,000 Agreement
Lynn Foster 2745 Alabama Ave S 09-117-21-31-0145 R - Residential 246,900 260,300 235,000 Agreement
Allison DeCamillis 2918 Vernon Ave S 09-117-21-34-0003 R - Residential 215,900 230,900 195,000 Agreement
Michael Weinmann 2955 Yosemite Ave S 09-117-21-34-0102 R - Residential 276,400 301,800 278,000 Agreement
Ethan Raymond 3016 Oregon Ave S 17-117-21-21-0101 R - Residential 159,900 175,900 155,000 Agreement
Will & Kim Walker 3309 Texas Ave S 17-117-21-23-0087 R - Residential 159,800 186,000 171,000 Agreement
Charles Moses 3993-95 Dakota Ave S 21-117-21-32-0151 DB - Duplex 234,600 241,900 227,000 Agreement
Charles Moses 3997-99 Dakota Ave S 21-117-21-32-0152 DB - Duplex 222,500 229,400 220,000 Agreement
Linda Forret 3808 Joppa Ave S 07-028-24-12-0003 R - Residential 229,900 239,300 234,000 Agreement
Jeremy Myrum 4704 Vallacher Ave 07-028-24-21-0029 R - Residential 400,400 440,300 432,000 Agreement
Brent Whittington 4708 41st St W 07-028-24-24-0035 R - Residential 276,300 578,200 540,000 Agreement
Mary Geske 4241 Ottawa Ave S 07-028-24-31-0024 R - Residential 228,300 235,300 207,500 Agreement
Morningside Development, LLC 4908 Morningside Rd 07-028-24-31-0130 R - Residential 279,400 289,600 246,000 Agreement
Toni Dufour 4329 Brook Ave 07-028-24-33-0106 R - Residential 489,600 500,900 489,600 Agreement
Marshall Masko 2325 Parklands Rd 31-029-24-12-0045 RL - Residential 1,329,300 1,447,800 1,400,000 Agreement
Mark Hauck 2552 Monterey Ave S 31-029-24-13-0091 R - Residential 780,000 800,900 785,000 Agreement
Marcia Saint Pierre 4105 Utica Ave S 07-028-24-32-0057 R - Residential 185,100 192,800 192,800 Withdraw
1436 Hampshire LLC (EO) 1436 Hampshire Ave S 05-117-21-42-0146 A - Apartment 591,000 729,000 729,000 No Access
Aquila Park, LLC (EO) 8300 31st St W 18-117-21-11-0041 A - Apartment 2,124,000 2,332,000 2,332,000 No Access
3345 Colfax, LLC (EO) 3063 Virginia Ave S 18-117-21-11-0048 A - Apartment 1,224,000 1,472,000 1,472,000 No Access
ROSTER - City of St. Louis Park Local Board of Appeal and Equalization - Reconvene April 27, 2015
Reconvene Meeting of April 27, 2015
Title: 2015 Local Board of Appeal and Equalization Page 6
Brief History 2309 Westridge Lane
Property abuts city property on Twin Lakes in St Louis Park. Twin Lakes pond is a 13 acre body
of water used to move storm water from streets to Minneapolis Chain of Lakes. The pond is
low water quality and not fit for swimming or wading. Algae appearance and odor are very
apparent. Last dredging in 1997 brought maximum depth of 8 feet in the middle.
The lot is approximately .6 acres, 100 yards from Benilde St Margaret's athletic field.
Added porch in 1983. First remodeling took place in early 2011 when kitchen was remodeled.
Remodeling only one room does not increase the value of the building when all the other rooms
remain in their 1953 form.
As the Local Board'of Appeals does not discuss grid sheets, the following is the basis for owner's valuation
Market Values
The valuation as of January 2012was appealed, and county reduced amount city valued it at.
County
City Ordered
$420,400 $355,500
$34,600 $59,600
$25.000
Land
Building
lmprovements
Total $480,000 $415,100
From its valuation as of January 2012, the city now values the property at $499,900. This is an increase
of 20% in three years.
Twin Lakes has a two basins - an East and a West. 2309 Westridge Lane is on the West side of the pond
called Twin Lakes. As shown on the the bottom of the accompanying sheet, the assessed value of
East basin properties has increased 2% since January 2012,while the valuation of the West basin properties
has increased 21%. I have no knowledge as to why there would be such a discrepancy.
I see no reason to think that my property value has increased more than the East basin. Therefore I
consider the value of my property to be $423,500, which is 2To more than the county ordered amount of
$415,100 in2012.
Summary: City valuation $499,900
Homeowners valuation $423.500
Reconvene Meeting of April 27, 2015
Title: 2015 Local Board of Appeal and Equalization Page 7
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Reconvene Meeting of April 27, 2015
Title: 2015 Local Board of Appeal and Equalization Page 8
For SLP Local Board ofAppeal Spring 2015
Property Valuations
East Basin Twin Lakes
4330 W 25th Land
Sold 11l2013 $549,900 Buitding
Change from prior year
Change from 11112012
4400 W 25th Land
Building
Less Cummulative lmprovement
without lmprovement
Change from prior year
Change from 11112012
4248 Basswood Land
Building
Change from prior year
Change from 11112012
4254 Basswood Land
Sold 411972 $75,000 Building
Change from prior year
Change from 11112Q12
January 1,2012 January 1,2013 January 1,2Q14 January 1,2015
325,200 308,900 325,900 348,700
296,800 262;200 263,500 297,2QO
622,000 5?1,100
-8% 3% 10%
-5% 4%
290,700
235,300
276,10Q
220,200
291,300
221,300
311,600
259,300
2Yo
343,200
4%
1%
322.500 306.300
-3Yo
323,200 345,800
382,100 374,500 376,300 376,300
?04,600 680,800 69
-3% 3o/o 3Yo
-1o/o
320,200 304,100 320,800
270,300 243,800 245,000 245,000
590,500 54r,900 56
-7% 3% 4%
-4% 0To
West Basin Twin Lakes
2301 Westridge Land
lmprovements
Less Cummulative lmpr
without lmprovement
Change from prior year
Change lrom 11112012
2309 Westridge Land
Building
Change from prior year
Change from 11112012
23'17 Westridge Land
Building
Change from prior year
Change from 11112012
360,400 342,300 361 ,1 00
31,800
386,300
Building 65,800 136,7q0 137,700 169,500
Sub Total 426,200 479,000 530,600 555,800
4o/o
17Yo
4%
14o/o
357,900
2OTo
382,900357,200 339,300
232,000 320,300 321,900 321,900
589,200 659,600 67rc
12% .3% 4%
lSYo 20Vo
337,700
I 18,300
356,200
11
23o/o
381,1 00
118,800
East Basin Total
4330 W 25th
4400 w 25th
4248 Basswood
4254 Basswood
Group total
Change from prior year
Change from 11112012
West Basin Totals
2301 Westridge
2309 Westridge
23'17 Westridge
Group Total
Change from prior year
Change from 11112012
622,000
526,000
704,600
571,100
496,300
680,800
479,000
456,000
659,600
589,400
512,600
699,500
645,900
532,900
722,100
3%
-3%
426,200
4'15,100
589.200
498,800
475,000
679
524,000
499,900
704,800
21%
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Meeting: Study Session
Meeting Date: April 27, 2015
Discussion Item: 1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: Future Study Session Agenda Planning – May 4 and May 11, 2015
RECOMMENDED ACTION: The City Council and the City Manager to set the agenda for a
Special Study Session on May 4 and the regularly scheduled Study Session on May 11, 2015.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: Does the Council agree with the agendas as proposed?
SUMMARY: At each study session approximately five minutes are set aside to discuss the next
study session agenda. For this purpose, attached please find the proposed discussion items for a
Special Study Session on May 4 and the regularly scheduled Study Session on May 11, 2015.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: Not applicable.
VISION CONSIDERATION: Not applicable.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: Future Study Session Agenda Planning – May 4 & 11, 2015
Prepared by: Debbie Fischer, Administrative Services Office Assistant
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 1) Page 2
Title: Future Study Session Agenda Planning – May 4 and May 11, 2015
Special Study Session, May 4, 2015 – 6:30 p.m.
Tentative Discussion Items
1. Polystyrene/Plastic Bag Update – Operations & Recreation (45 minutes)
Staff will be providing next steps in the process to eliminate polystyrene for carry out use in
restaurants and moving towards eliminating plastic bags used by retailers.
Study Session, May 11, 2015 – 6:30 p.m.
Tentative Discussion Items
1. Future Study Session Agenda Planning – Administrative Services (5 minutes)
2. Update on Outdoor Recreation Complex – Operations & Recreation (45 minutes)
Staff will present the final design development phase and updated estimates for the Outdoor
Recreation Complex.
3. PLACE Development Update & Predevelopment Agreement – Community Development (45
minutes)
Staff will provide an update on the PLACE project and proposed Preliminary Development
Agreement.
4. Power Purchasing Agreement – Solar Garden Subscription – Inspections (20 minutes)
Consider moving forward on RFP process for entering into an energy purchasing agreement
for renewable electrical energy from a solar garden developer.
5. Southwest LRT Update – Community Development (20 minutes)
Staff will update Council on the latest SWLRT activities and discuss any policy related
items.
Communications/Meeting Check-In – Administrative Services (5 minutes)
Time for communications between staff and Council will be set aside on every study session
agenda for the purposes of information sharing.
End of Meeting: 8:50 p.m.
Meeting: Study Session
Meeting Date: April 27, 2015
Discussion Item: 2
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: 4900 Excelsior Development Update (Former Bally Total Fitness Site)
RECOMMENDED ACTION: No action at this time. The purpose of this report is to inform
the City Council of the status of the development applications and the tax increment financing
(TIF) request, and for City Council to discuss the development plans and TIF request in general.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: Does the City Council wish to modify its guidance to the
developer regarding the building design, heights, number of units, number of affordable units, etc.?
SUMMARY: At two previous study sessions in July and October 2014, the City Council
discussed Oppidan’s redevelopment proposal and tax increment financing request for the former
Bally Total Fitness site and adjacent EDA-owned lot at 4760 and 4900 Excelsior Blvd. The
development has consistently included a mix of commercial on the first floor with multiple-
family residential apartment units above, and parking below the building.
A key direction from the City Council in July was that a significant number of affordable units
should be added to the development. In October, Oppidan shared that in order to include 20
affordable units in the development the building program would need to grow from 157 units and
four stories tall to approximately 175-185 dwelling units and five stories tall.
In the course of preparing more detailed plans for formal zoning applications, the building
concept did not quite fit within the confines of the lot. In order to provide minimal setbacks
relating to the subdivision ordinance and provide enough space for sidewalks and landscaping,
the building footprint contracted and a partial sixth floor was added to the building along
Excelsior Boulevard. The Preliminary PUD application submitted in March includes 28,228
square feet of commercial (grocery store) on the first floor and 189 dwelling units.
On April 8, Oppidan held a meeting with the Wolfe Park and Minikahda Vista neighborhoods
and the Planning Commission held a public hearing on April 15 regarding the development
plans. Staff recommended approval of the applications with conditions. Planning Commission
recommended approval of the preliminary plat only, and recommended denial of subdivision
variances and the PUD on a 4-0 vote. Commissioners commented they were uneasy with the
proposal due to a combination of several factors, including the building height, parking counts,
building setbacks (reduced drainage and utility easements) and limited landscaping.
Oppidan representatives will be present at the Study Session to discuss the development
proposal, potential options to address some of the issues raised by the neighborhood and
Planning Commission, and listen to feedback from the City Council.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: Not applicable at this time
VISION CONSIDERATION: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a well-maintained and
diverse housing stock.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: Discussion
Development Images
Park Commons Concept Plans (Source: 1998 Comprehensive Plan)
Prepared by: Sean Walther, Senior Planner
Greg hunt, Economic Development Coordinator
Reviewed by: Michele Schnitker, Housing Supervisor
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 2) Page 2
Title: 4900 Excelsior Development Update (Former Bally Total Fitness Site)
DISCUSSION
BACKGROUND: Oppidan, Inc. currently proposes a six-story, mixed-use development of the
former Bally Total Fitness block that includes 28,228 square feet of commercial (a grocery store)
on the first floor and 189 apartment units, including 20 affordable units.
City Council was first presented a development concept and general TIF request from Oppidan
Investment Company at a Study Session on July 28, 2014. The plans were for a four-story, 157-
unit building with 32,000 square feet of commercial on the first floor. The City Council
expressed support for working with Oppidan on the proposed mixed-use development for the
Bally/EDA block. A key direction from the City Council was that a significant number of
affordable units should be added to the development.
The City Council reviewed a revised proposal for the site at a study session on October 27, 2014.
In order to include affordable housing in the development, Oppidan estimated the building
program would need to grow from 157 units and four stories to 175-185 dwelling units and five
stories tall. In addition, the project would still need tax increment financing to make the project
financially feasible. City staff also shared at that meeting that changes would be needed to the
City’s planned unit development (PUD) ordinance and Comprehensive Plan to allow the
proposed residential densities being considered.
In 2015, the City Council adopted the ordinance and Comprehensive Plan amendments that
provide City Council with more flexibility and more discretion regarding various development
regulations through the PUD process. The PUD changes had been contemplated by the City for
some time, but were advanced in earnest partly because of this pending proposal.
As Oppidan advanced the site and building design in preparation for formal PUD and plat
applications, the concept plan shared with City Council did not fit within the confines of the lot.
In order to provide minimal setbacks relating to the subdivision ordinance and to provide enough
space for sidewalks and landscaping, the building footprint contracted and a partial sixth floor
was added to the building along Excelsior Boulevard. The current plan includes 28,228 square
feet of commercial (grocery store) on the first floor and 189 dwelling units.
Neighborhood Meeting: Oppidan held a neighborhood meeting on Wednesday, April 8, to
present the proposed development, respond to questions, and learn about resident’s concerns.
The meeting was well-attended with approximately 60 people, excluding City staff, Oppidan’s
representatives, and Councilmembers Mavity and Hallfin.
The major concerns expressed at the neighborhood meeting included: 1) traffic, including
congestion on Excelsior Boulevard, capacity of the Quentin Avenue intersection, and cut through
traffic in the neighborhoods to the south and on Park Commons Boulevard; 2) adequate parking
and access; 3) the building height, including the fit in the area, the impact to the feel along the
sidewalks, block views/sun, and general density of the development; and 4) the sustainability of
the market demand for more apartments and another grocery store in this area.
Other issues that were mentioned included hours of operation for the grocery store, the similarity
of the building design to Ellipse on Excelsior and other recent developments, lighting impacts,
and property tax impacts if the City provides financial assistance to the developer.
In addition, a few neighbors referred to Oppidan’s earlier four-story concept plan, as well as
Town Center (“Park Commons”) guide plans that envisioned two to four-story buildings along
Excelsior Boulevard.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 2) Page 3
Title: 4900 Excelsior Development Update (Former Bally Total Fitness Site)
Park Commons: Park Commons is the 125 acres bound by Highway 100, Excelsior Boulevard,
Monterey Drive and 36th Street. A section from a previous Comprehensive Plan (adopted in
1998) that describes the Park Commons concept plan(s) is attached for your information.
The Bally site is part of the overall Park Commons area which is intended to develop over time
into a “Town Center.” Excelsior & Grand and the transformation of Wolf Park and the Rec
Center into citywide flagship city amenities largely implemented the east half of the plan. The
Bally site is a key site and its redevelopment would further the transformation of this area to
achieve the town center vision. This has been city policy for the 20 years since the community
Visioning process in 1994. The goal was to create a dense, walkable, transit supportive, and
livable neighborhood community.
The concept plan for the area was formally adopted in 1997 and incorporated into the City's
Comprehensive Plan in 1998. The concept plans included design guidelines for the heights of
buildings and mix of land uses. Along Excelsior Boulevard it recommended 2-4 story buildings
south of Park Commons Drive and taller buildings were desired on the north side, including the
intersection of Excelsior Boulevard and Monterey Drive. These guidelines and concept plans
happened before a developer had been identified or development proposals had been received for
any of the Park Commons area.
Between the 1998 Comp Plan and the 2010 Comprehensive Plan update the city worked in
partnership with TOLD development and the neighborhoods to implement the first Park
Commons development, Park Commons East (Excelsior & Grand). The evolution in the Park
Commons plans is readily apparent if you compare the 1997 concept plan with the actual
Excelsior & Grand as it is built today. Other changes to the design details are evident and reflect
the evolution of the physical plans to make sure parking is adequate, services are handled, etc.
However, the goals of creating a walkable, livable town center are still achieved.
The 2010 Comp Plan and the official controls for the Park Commons reflect this evolution of the
basic concept for the Town Center, and give the City Council discretion, for instance, to allow
taller building. Building technology has also changed since the concept plans were adopted. Five
to six-story buildings were not practical in 1997. Wood frame construction could only be used to
up to four stories. Greater than four stories required masonry or steel frame construction which
was not economically feasible unless the building was much taller than six stories, and clearly
there was no interest in a true high rise building along this part of Excelsior Boulevard.
Today the guiding principles for the Park Commons are incorporated in the current 2010
Comprehensive Plan, the Mixed-Use and High Density Residential zoning districts, and the PUD
ordinance. There may be differences of opinion about the details of the design for the
development proposed for the Bally's site, but it is the type of mixed-use development desirable
for this site, a vast improvement over what is there today, eliminates what is currently a blighting
influence on the area and city, and it reinforces the many of the objectives of the Park Commons
concept plan.
Planning Commission Meeting: Many of the concerns voiced at the neighborhood meeting were
also raised during the public hearing. After many questions from Commissioners, public
comments, and a brief discussion the Planning Commission recommended approval of the
preliminary plat, denial of subdivision variances, and denial of the PUD on a 4-0 vote, with three
members being absent. Minutes from the meeting are not yet available.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 2) Page 4
Title: 4900 Excelsior Development Update (Former Bally Total Fitness Site)
Based on questions and comments from Commissioners during the meeting, Staff would
characterize Commissioners as being uneasy with the proposal due to a combination of several
factors, including the building height, parking counts, building setbacks (reduced drainage and
utility easements), and limited landscaping. Staff’s impression was that with certain
modifications in those respects the Planning Commissioners may have been more supportive of
the development proposal. The number and degree of changes that would be needed to have
gained Planning Commission support is not known.
TIF Request: In order to make the proposed project financially feasible, Oppidan submitted a
preliminary tax increment financing application in January in which it requested $4 million in
assistance. The application however does not reflect the most recent iteration of the building
program, or any potential revisions to the building program. Thus Staff does not have a current
project pro forma to analyze. The developer plans to submit an updated pro forma once it feels it
has reached a building plan that satisfactorily addresses current Planning Staff and Planning
Commission concerns.
In light of recent meetings with the neighborhood and the Planning Commission, Staff held a
follow-up meeting with Oppidan on April 17th. In that meeting Oppidan expressed that if it
were to remove the 6th floor along Excelsior Boulevard (and the 12 apartment units with
premium rents) it would need further assistance in order to make its pro forma feasible, such as
reducing the number of affordable units to 10. While it wouldn’t solve the issue completely,
Staff requested the developer speak with the current property owner (LA Fitness) and request a
reduction in the purchase price of the land (with the understanding that if any such reduction
were realized it would be matched by a similar reduction on the purchase price for the EDA
property on a per unit basis). Oppidan agreed to speak with the owner’s representative but was
not optimistic about the outcome.
With or without any concessions on the land cost, Oppidan believes some kind of compromise is
needed to make its pro forma feasible. To that end, Oppidan is willing to reduce the building size
from six stories and 189 units to five stories and 177 units if the number of affordable units could
also be reduced to ten.
If more than ten affordable units are required by City Council, it would increase the amount of
TIF assistance requested. Oppidan’s financial assumptions remain subject to review and analysis
once it submits an updated project pro forma.
NEXT STEPS: The preliminary plat and preliminary PUD applications are tentatively
scheduled for City Council consideration at the May 18, 2015 regular meeting. Oppidan is
prepared to generate and submit revised plans in a timely fashion for staff review in the interest
of maintaining the planned schedule. Also, Oppidan would submit an updated pro forma for
City review and evaluation.
The City’s review of the TIF request would not be completed before the City Council takes
action on the preliminary development applications. The review would be completed at about
the same time as final plat and final PUD applications are considered by City Council, provided
the development receives preliminary approvals.
Bally’s RedevelopmentApril 2015Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 2) Title: 4900 Excelsior Development Update (Former Bally Total Fitness Site)Page 5
Building ElevationsExcelsior (South)Park Commons (North)Princeton (East)Quentin (West)Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 2) Title: 4900 Excelsior Development Update (Former Bally Total Fitness Site)Page 6
Building Elevation - Excelsior Blvd (South)4900 ExcelsiorStudy Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 2) Title: 4900 Excelsior Development Update (Former Bally Total Fitness Site)Page 7
Building Elevation – Quentin Ave S (West)4900 ExcelsiorStudy Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 2) Title: 4900 Excelsior Development Update (Former Bally Total Fitness Site)Page 8
Building Elevation – Princeton Ave S (East)4900 ExcelsiorStudy Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 2) Title: 4900 Excelsior Development Update (Former Bally Total Fitness Site)Page 9
Building Elevation – Park Commons Dr (North)4900 ExcelsiorStudy Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 2) Title: 4900 Excelsior Development Update (Former Bally Total Fitness Site)Page 10
Top ViewStudy Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 2) Title: 4900 Excelsior Development Update (Former Bally Total Fitness Site)Page 11
1stFloor PlanStudy Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 2) Title: 4900 Excelsior Development Update (Former Bally Total Fitness Site)Page 12
Parking Levels – P1Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 2) Title: 4900 Excelsior Development Update (Former Bally Total Fitness Site)Page 13
Parking Levels – P2Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 2) Title: 4900 Excelsior Development Update (Former Bally Total Fitness Site)Page 14
Redevelopment
St. Louis Park, Minnesota Comprehensive Plan 2000 - 2020 P-17
Excelsior Boulevard
The concept plan and subsequent modifications for the Excelsior Boulevard
Redevelopment District are found below. The area included within the
Redevelopment District, called “Park Commons” has been designated as a
town center for the City. The Plans are summarized below:
Park Commons is a 125-acre area generally bounded by Hwy 100,
Excelsior Boulevard, Monterey Drive, and West 36th Street, but includes
commercial parcels south of Excelsior Boulevard and a 5-acre residential
site north of West 36th Street. A redevelopment district was established for
the area as early as 1977, complete with a concept plan for redevelopment.
Goals and objectives of the Plan were to intensify existing development to
create a community focal point in the area. Some redevelopment occurred
(Byerly’s, Target, Park Shore Apartments) in the district consistent with
that plan.
In 1994, the City initiated a grass roots, long-term strategic planning
process called Vision St. Louis Park. One of many recommendations from
that effort addressed the future redevelopment of this district. The Vision
St. Louis Park Community Connections Task Force recommended creating
a community focal point or “town center” in this area. The
recommendations did not include a physical plan, but suggested support for
principles included in the Livable Communities Act of 1995.
In 1996, the City sponsored a community workshop to create a new concept
plan for the area. A result of that workshop is the concept plan in Figure P-
6. This plan demonstrates those goals listed below. A Task Force that
created a more detailed Master Plan for Wolfe Park and the public square
later refined the plan. A Task Force that is studying issues west of Wolfe
Park may further refine the concept plan. This Task Force is studying the
proposed roadway connections and will be making specific
recommendations regarding the location, feasibility, and design of the
proposed roadway connections.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 2)
Title: 4900 Excelsior Development Update (Former Bally Total Fitness Site)Page 15
Redevelopment
P-18 Comprehensive Plan 2000 - 2020 St. Louis Park, Minnesota
Figure P-5:
Park Commons East Redevelopment Concept Plan
This plan for Park Commons East is a concept that will be refined by detailed
redevelopment plans through the PUD approval process. Office buildings will include at
least 50% ground floor retail/service/restaurants. A mix of uses will be incorporated,
including approximately 145,000 sq. ft of retail/service/restaurants, 115,000 sq. ft. of office,
and 660 residential units, including rental and for-sale units. Density shall be considered
overall for the entire redevelopment plan rather than block-by-block or land use designation-
by-designation. Building heights south of 38th/39th Street will generally be 2-4 stories,
except that a 5-story residential building can be approved by PUD at the corner of Monterey
Drive and Excelsior Boulevard. Building heights north of 38th/39th Street will generally be
6-8 stories. The actual heights of buildings will vary, due to different floor to ceiling heights
of different uses. Buildings over 4 stories in height should be rendered in such a manner as
to retain a human scale at the street level (See Chapter R Livable Communities) and
minimize the visual impact of the upper stories. One solution is to set back upper floors.
The design of the park edge and town green will be further refined. The following
modifications to performance standards may be adopted through PUD consideration:
Mixed-Use Criteria: Daycare can be considered a retail/service use for meeting ground
floor mixed-use criteria, and a fitness center (indoor entertainment) can be considered an
office use for meeting upper story mixed-use criteria, since both can be converted in the
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 2)
Title: 4900 Excelsior Development Update (Former Bally Total Fitness Site)Page 16
Redevelopment
St. Louis Park, Minnesota Comprehensive Plan 2000 - 2020 P-19
future. The actual mix of uses may vary on a given lot provided that the overall ratio of
uses falls within the ranges established under Land Use Allocations below.
Access to Multiple-Family: Access to residential units will be approved through the
PUD process based upon more detailed consideration.
Right-of-Way: Design of public right-of-ways, including exact location and width of
streets, on-street parking design, and width of boulevards and sidewalks will be
approved through the PUD and platting process based upon more detailed
consideration.
Open Space: Open space should be generally consistent with the redevelopment
concept and as specifically approved by PUD and plat based upon more detailed
consideration.
FAR and GFAR: Floor Area Ratio and Ground Floor Area Ratio should be generally
consistent with the redevelopment concept plan and as specifically approved by PUD
based upon more detailed consideration.
Building Setbacks: Building setbacks, including distances for internal private roadways
and parking lots, should be generally consistent with the redevelopment concept and as
specifically approved by PUD based upon more detailed consideration.
Landscaping and Bufferyards: Landscaping and bufferyards will be as specifically
approved by PUD based upon more detailed consideration.
Off-Street Parking: Parking should be generally consistent with the redevelopment
concept and as specifically approved by PUD based upon more detailed consideration.
Figure P-6:
Park Commons
Concept Plan
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 2)
Title: 4900 Excelsior Development Update (Former Bally Total Fitness Site)Page 17
Redevelopment
P-20 Comprehensive Plan 2000 - 2020 St. Louis Park, Minnesota
The following are the principal redevelopment goals:
Create a community focal point and cultural gathering places, including,
for example, an art center.
Strengthen the area as a major employment, shopping, living, and leisure
area.
Intensify land use to create a compact, walkable town center.
Replace existing single story commercial buildings with multi-story
mixed-use buildings.
Create a logical intermodal internal circulation system, which
accommodates pedestrians, bicyclists, disabled persons, and autos by
connecting with surrounding neighborhoods, parks, an enhanced public
transit, and trails.
Interconnect existing street patterns to improve circulation and access to
the area.
Link housing with job opportunities through provision of additional
housing, creation of new job opportunities, building connections and
transit links.
Enhance public realm amenities including improvements to Wolfe Park,
a new public square, and improved streetscapes. Public realm
improvements should accommodate a wide range of users. Wolfe Park
is redeveloped as a central civic space, including an amphitheater.
Develop a strong green connection between Excelsior Boulevard and
Wolfe Park.
Create a town center whose architecture demonstrates pleasing
proportions, displays quality materials and detail, and is built to a human
scale.
Provide mixed-income-housing opportunities.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 2)
Title: 4900 Excelsior Development Update (Former Bally Total Fitness Site)Page 18
Redevelopment
St. Louis Park, Minnesota Comprehensive Plan 2000 - 2020 P-21
Provide housing of different types to accommodate a diversity of
housing needs.
Provide additional employment opportunities.
Enhance existing businesses.
Strengthen the area as a major commercial service area by attractive
other compatible uses.
Provide additional neighborhood services.
Prevent further deterioration of an aging commercial area.
Provide parking within structures, to the rear of buildings, and on the
street as appropriate.
Improve aesthetics and the stormwater management function of Wolfe
Lake.
Create effective public/private partnerships.
Foster and stimulate economically sound private development.
Encourage public displays of art (sculptures, murals) throughout Park
Commons.
In order to ensure the plan is implemented according to those goals,
redevelopment plans will be adopted, certain properties will be rezoned, and
the Zoning Ordinance will be amended as necessary. Street types are indicated
on Figure P-6 and standards for each street type are contained within the
Subdivision Ordinance.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 2)
Title: 4900 Excelsior Development Update (Former Bally Total Fitness Site)Page 19
Redevelopment
P-22 Comprehensive Plan 2000 - 2020 St. Louis Park, Minnesota
Land Use Allocations
Land located within the Park Commons area shall be allocated to the following
land uses:
A minimum of 20% of the gross area of Park Commons shall be permanently
allocated to public use tracts containing parks or squares.
A minimum of 3% of the gross area of Park Commons shall be permanently
allocated to civic uses.
A minimum of 15% and a maximum of 30% of the gross area shall be allocated
to office uses.
A minimum of 20% and a maximum of 50% of the gross area shall be allocated
to commercial/mixed uses.
A maximum of 15% of the gross area shall be allocated to large-scale
commercial uses.
A maximum of 20% of the gross area shall be allocated to townhouse use.
A minimum of 10% and a maximum of 30% of the gross area shall be allocated
to apartment uses.
Figure P-7:
Park Commons East
Redevelopment
Cross Section Concept
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 2)
Title: 4900 Excelsior Development Update (Former Bally Total Fitness Site)Page 20
Redevelopment
St. Louis Park, Minnesota Comprehensive Plan 2000 - 2020 P-23
Figure P-8:
Park Commons East Redevelopment - Image Sketch
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 2)
Title: 4900 Excelsior Development Update (Former Bally Total Fitness Site)Page 21
Redevelopment
P-24 Comprehensive Plan 2000 - 2020 St. Louis Park, Minnesota
The town green width has been refined in concept by the Park Commons
East Redevelopment Plan. The town green and park edge will be further
refined through development plan review (PUD) based upon more detailed
consideration.
Figure P-9:
Wolfe Park &
Town Green
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 2)
Title: 4900 Excelsior Development Update (Former Bally Total Fitness Site)Page 22
Meeting: Study Session
Meeting Date: April 27, 2015
Written Report: 3
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: SWLRT Updates
RECOMMENDED ACTION: No action at this time.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: None at this time. Please let staff know of any questions or
concerns you might have.
SUMMARY:
Station Architecture
The Southwest Project Office (SPO) held its Open House Wednesday, April 8th and presented
the proposed architecture for the LRT stations. Attached is a map showing the proposed types of
station architecture by location. The SPO had received feedback on the shelters, heat and seating
previously from St. Louis Park and other cities. Attached is a slide showing how the issue of
weather protection is being considered to limit wind and other weather impacts, including
modifications of the roofs, adding transoms and extending shelters to the ground. Additional
feedback is being accepted until April 28th.
Advanced Design
Staff continues to work with SPO staff week in and week out on a variety of issues related to
design specifics, Joint Development, the LRCIs, station design, utilities public safety and others
items. On Friday, April 17th, the Fire Chief, Steve Koering, Jack Sullivan and Meg McMonigal
toured the Blue Line with Metro Transit Staff by riding the LRT train and noting various features
of the line. The intent was to gain an understanding of the public safety practices and methods of
response in an emergency. Additional tours may be given over the course of the project for staff.
West Lake Multimodal Transportation Study
St. Louis Park is participating in the West Lake Multimodal Transportation Study with the City
of Minneapolis, as St. Louis Park borders this station area and has citizens and businesses that
will likely use it. The purpose of the Study is to “improve safety, access, connectivity, and
mobility for all modes of travel surrounding the West Lake Station area.” St. Louis Park Staff
participated in the walking tour of the area on Tuesday, April 21st. A community workshop will
be held on April 29th from 5-7 p.m. at the Jones-Harrison Residence facility, 3700 Cedar Lake
Avenue. Neighbors and neighborhood leaders in St. Louis Park have been invited.
VISION CONSIDERATION: St. Louis Park is committed to being a connected and engaged
community.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: Station Types by Location
Station Design – Accessibility and Weather Protection
West Lake Multimodal Study Meeting Notice
Prepared by: Meg McMonigal, Planning and Zoning Supervisor
Reviewed by: Michele Schnitker, Interim Community Development Director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
.
APRIL 2015
WORK IN PROCESS
Landscape Station Type
Suggested Station Types By Location
Landmark Station Type
Neighborhood Station Type
Town Square Station Type
MINNEAPOLIS
MINNETONKA
EDEN PRAIRIE
ST. LOUIS PARK
GOLDEN VALLEY
TO
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P
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PLYMOUTH
EDINA
BLOOMINGTON
RICHFIELD
MITCHELLSOUTHWESTEDEN PRAIRIE TOWN CENTERGOLDEN TRIANGLECITY WESTOPUSSHADY OAKDOWNTOWN HOPKINSBLAKELOUISIANAWOODDALEBELTLINEWEST LAKE21ST STREETMETRO BLUE
L
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METRO BLUE LINE
EXTENSION
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Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 3)
Title: SWLRT Updates
Page 2
APRIL 2015
WORK IN PROCESS
Station Design - Accessibility and Weather Protection
Station Section with Flat Canopy
IMAGE
CANOPY VARIATIONS
Station Section with Split and Flat Canopies Station Section with Split and Sloped Canopies
Wheelchair
Clear Space
Wheelchair
Turning Space
People Spacing
Guideline
Leaning Rail
Bench
(b) T shaped
(a) Circular
SYMBOL LEGEND
Option - Shelter Plan A
• Narrow shelter opening less susceptible
to wind and weather, and provides
denser heater coverage
• No barriers to prevent flow of people
from shelters to the light rail vehicles
• 12 total shelters per platform
• More benches
Pros
• Narrow shelters allow for less personal
space within shelters
Cons
RECOMMENDED OPTION
Option - Shelter Plan C
• Narrow shelter openings less susceptible
to wind and weather
Pros
• Front barrier prevents flow of people from
shelters
• Interior shelter depth is too narrow to
accomodate benches
• 8 total shelters per platform
Cons
WHAT WE HEARDWhat Have We Heard?
• Provide sufficient shelter space for waiting passengers
• More benches, fewer leaning rails
• Promote easier circulation on platform
Option - Shelter Plan B
• Narrow shelter opening less susceptible
to wind and weather
Pros
• Front barrier prevents flow of people from
shelters
• Interior shelter depth is too narrow to
accomodate benches
• Personal safety may feel compromised in
the trapped space created by the shelter
• Access is limited with only one opening
• 8 total shelters per platform
Cons
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 3)
Title: SWLRT Updates
Page 3
April 10, 2015
RE: West Lake Multimodal Transportation Study
You are invited to attend an informational and interactive drop-in workshop for
the West Lake Multimodal Transportation Study. This workshop will consist of a
series of interactive activities during which participants can help the project
team identify issues and priorities for the West Lake area.
The City of Minneapolis is leading an areawide multimodal transportation study
for the West Lake LRT Station area. The goal of the study is to identify
opportunities to address non-motorized and motorized travel within the West
Lake Station area with projects that can be implemented as a part of the
construction of the Southwest LRT or as part of other capital initiatives.
Study efforts are being coordinated with partner agencies and stakeholders; the
study will emphasize bicycle and pedestrian modes to identify needs, challenges,
and opportunities in the vicinity of the West Lake Station. This workshop is an
opportunity for all area stakeholders to contribute to the process.
The meeting is scheduled for April 29th at 5:00 PM. The meeting will be held in
the Centrum room of the Jones-Harrison Residence:
Jones-Harrison Residence
3700 Cedar Lake Avenue
Minneapolis, MN 55416
Please feel free to contact me with questions or to provide comments if you are
unable to attend the meeting. I can be reached by phone at (612) 673-3638 or
via email at nathan.koster@minneapolismn.gov. Information regarding the
project is also available on the City of Minneapolis website at the following
address: http://www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us/cip/all/WCMS1P-138480.
Sincerely,
Nathan Koster, AICP
Project Manager
309 2nd Avenue S – Rm 300
Minneapolis, MN 55401
CC: CM Palmisano
www.ci.minneapolis.mn.us
Affirmative Action Employer
Department of
Public Works
Steven A. Kotke, P.E.
City Engineer
Director
350 South 5th Street - Room 203 Minneapolis MN 55415
Office 612 673-3000
Fax 612 673-3565
TTY 612 673-2157
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 3)
Title: SWLRT Updates Page 4
Project Stakeholder Page 2 of 2
April 10, 2015
The meeting site is wheelchair accessible. Deaf and hard-of-hearing persons may
use a relay service to call 311 agents at (612) 673-3000. TTY users may call (612)
673-2157 or (612) 673-2626.
Attention: If you have any questions regarding this material please call 311
Hmong - Ceeb toom. Yog koj xav tau kev pab txhais cov xov no rau koj dawb, hu
(612) 673-2800;
Spanish - Atención. Si desea recibir asistencia gratuita para traducir esta
información, llame al teléfono (612) 673-2700;
Somali - Ogow. Haddii aad dooneyso in lagaa kaalmeeyo tarjamadda
macluumaadkani oo lacag la’ aan wac (612) 673-3500
Project Map
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 3)
Title: SWLRT Updates Page 5
Meeting: Study Session
Meeting Date: April 27, 2015
Written Report: 4
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: Compensation and Personnel Programs
RECOMMENDED ACTION: No action needed at this time. This report is for informational
purposes.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: Does the Council need any other information on our
compensation, benefits and personnel programs?
SUMMARY: Staff would like to provide Council with a summary update of compensation,
benefits, personnel programs and activities for employees. This is done periodically to keep
Council informed of the programs and policies available to our employees.
The attached information provides details on our upcoming compensation study. This study will
review all of our positions, review market conditions and make recommendations on updating
our compensation program. This study will also be conducted to update our pay equity system
that we are required to maintain by state statute.
Also attached is a summary of benefits and programs offered to our employees.
More information is available from Human Resources and Council is encouraged to contact HR
with any questions.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: Not applicable.
VISION CONSIDERATION: Not applicable.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: Discussion
Dr. Saado Abboud Bio
Keystone Job Leveling System Fact Sheet
Non-Union Compensation Plan
List of External Market Comparable Cities
Summary of Employee Benefits
Personnel Manual
Prepared by: Ali Timpone, HR Coordinator
Reviewed by: Nancy Deno, Deputy City Manager/HR Director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4) Page 2
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs
DISCUSSION
COMPENSATION STUDY
In the 2015 budget, the City set aside funds for a compensation study. This is planned to be
completed in 2015 with implementation in 2016 and 2017. Below is the information about this
study and the consultant we will be using.
Why is the City doing a compensation study?
The City is required by the Minnesota Pay Equity Act to establish compensation relationships
between all positions in order to eliminate gender-based wage disparities. Statute 471.994
requires local governments to establish a job evaluation system in order to determine the
comparable work value of each class of employee. The current job evaluation system in place
for the City of St. Louis Park was implemented in 1997 and was based on the HR Focus system
which is no longer supported. Because it has been so many years since the system was
implemented and because it is no longer supported, staff have begun the process of finding a new
evaluation system.
In order to implement a new system, a study of all current positions will be completed in the
summer and early fall of 2015.
Who will conduct the study?
The City has used Keystone Consulting Group of Minneapolis and Principal Consultant Saado
Abboud, Ph.D., since 2012 to conduct annual reviews of our citywide pay plan. Dr. Abboud is
familiar with St. Louis Park’s current evaluation system and has been selected to complete the
study to implement a new evaluation system for 2016. Dr. Abboud’s bio is attached.
How will the study be conducted?
Dr. Abboud and his staff will review job descriptions for all regular, benefit-earning positions.
The system incorporates the most widely accepted compensable factors to assign suitable levels
to each job (fact sheet attached). These levels are then converted into points using a specialized
spreadsheet. The spreadsheet provides an overall report for all jobs evaluated to ensure results
are viewed as fair and credible. Once the evaluation process is complete, a regression analysis
may be used to assist with creating salary ranges based on market data and the evaluation points.
The analysis enables the City to do comparisons with the market and evaluate the
competitiveness of our overall pay program. The system also facilitates the process of assigning
jobs to appropriate grades when market data is scarce.
Which evaluation factors are used?
The Keystone system will analyze each position using the following five evaluation factors:
1. Knowledge, Skills & Competence: The knowledge and skills gained through education,
training, and the experience required for fulfilling the overall purpose of the job.
2. Level of Responsibility: The impact by the individual in the job on achieving the objectives
of the team, department, business function or organization.
3. Level of Complexity: Complexity refers to the variety and diversity of the work assigned to
the job, as well as the complexity of the decisions made to deliver certain results.
4. Contacts & Interpersonal Skills: The extent to which the work involves making contacts,
communicating, negotiating or influencing decision-making with people inside and outside
the organization.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4) Page 3
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs
5. Working Conditions: Refers to exposure to extreme temperature, unpleasant conditions,
exposure to injury and health hazards in addition to physical demands that are part of the
regular work environment.
Will employee performance influence pay levels?
The job evaluation system does not take into account performance level, as pay grades are based
solely on the five evaluation factors described above. However, based on the results of the
study, Dr. Abboud and his staff may make recommendations for an optional merit pay program
that the City can consider adding.
How much does the study cost?
Keystone Consulting Group submitted a proposal for approximately $20,000 to complete the
study. Funds were included in the 2015 budget for this study.
How does the study impact union groups?
The City has offered to meet and confer with our five bargaining groups as required by state
statute regarding implementation of a new evaluation system. Any actual changes to a union
employee’s salary is considered a term and condition of employment and must be negotiated
before being imposed. All five union groups have open contracts for 2016 and will engage in
collective bargaining at the end of these contracts.
How does the study impact the City’s Compensation Plan?
The City’s compensation plan was last revised in 1997 (attached). This plan details the City’s
methodology in determining and maintaining base compensation for all positions which allows
the City to attract and retain a competent workforce. The plan defines the City’s principles and
philosophy on setting pay, annual increases and which organizations are included in the City’s
external market comparisons. With the completion of the compensation study by Keystone and
Dr. Abboud, this compensation plan document will need to be updated as it refers to obsolete
organizations (for example, the Stanton V group) and for the possible addition of a merit pay
program. The City does not plan to change the external market comparison group (metro
suburbs with populations between 25,000 and 90,000 – see attached list).
What is the timeline for the study?
The study will commence immediately and is planned to be completed before October 1, 2015 so
that the City can make changes as needed for 2016.
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
Each year the City reviews benefits offered to employees and reviews market comparisons. It is
important that we continue to provide a benefit package that supports retention and hiring of
employees.
The City provides a comprehensive benefits package to all eligible employees that includes:
• health insurance with an HRA/VEBA funding account,
• dental insurance,
• flexible spending accounts,
• basic and supplemental life insurance for employees and dependents,
• short-term disability (for those on the flex leave program),
• parenting leave,
• long-term disability,
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4) Page 4
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs
• deferred compensation programs with an employer match, and
• voluntary long-term care insurance.
Additional fringe benefits that are offered include:
• tuition reimbursement,
• credit union,
• onsite fitness facility, and
• wellness incentive program that provides a cash incentive to employees who participate
in selected preventive wellness activities.
A summary of all these programs is attached.
PERSONNEL POLICIES
The City also keeps an up-to-date Personnel Manual that explains the policies and procedures for
all employees. This document is periodically updated to ensure accuracy and compliance with
all laws and regulations. A copy of our Personnel Manual is attached.
UNION CONTRACTS
The City has five bargaining groups: Police Sergeants, Police Officers, Public Safety
Dispatchers, Local 49 Maintenance, and Firefighters and Fire Lieutenants. All contracts are
open for negotiation in 2016. Copies of current union contracts are on file with HR and are
available upon request.
Footnotes:
• Details on some benefits for employees in Police, Sergeants, Firefighters, Dispatch and Local
49 Maintenance bargaining units may differ and should refer to the contract.
• Other leave or benefit information can be found in the Employee Personnel Manual.
Saado Y. Abboud, Ph.D.
Keystone Compensation Group, LLC
Principal Consultant
Tel: 612.810.3522
Sabboud@keystonecomp.net
www.keystonecomp.net
Saado is the founder of Keystone Compensation Group LLC with over twenty years of experience in the
field of compensation. His experience involves all phases of compensation program development,
strategy, design, and management. He serves client organizations in private, public, and nonprofit
sectors. Saado also consults with top executives and board of directors on executive compensation
design and management. His combined experience in managing compensation programs within a
corporate function and as a professional consultant gives him a balanced view for working with
compensation assignments.
Most recently Saado served as Vice President, Compensation Practice for Stanton Group, a regional
consulting and survey research firm in Minneapolis, MN. He worked closely with business and HR
leaders as well as Boards of Directors to develop rewards programs for executives, middle
management, and other employees. Saado’s compensation experience includes developing base pay,
short-term, and long-term incentive programs to attract and motivate employees. He also helps his
clients with communicating their reward programs.
Prior to joining Stanton Group, Saado spent several years in a senior leadership position at Best Buy
Co. with responsibilities over corporate compensation programs as well as executive compensation.
Among his other accomplishments was taking a key leadership role in restructuring the HR function
and leading several technology initiatives to support business growth. He contributed articles and
interviews to several trade publications, including Workspan, a monthly journal for total rewards
professionals, Minnesota Bankers News, Minneapolis Star Tribune, and the Twin Cities Business Journal.
Early in his career, Saado taught at the college and graduate school levels, domestically and abroad. He
has a doctorate and master’s degrees from the University of Minnesota in Quantitative Analysis and
received an MBA degree in Corporate Finance from the University of St. Thomas. Saado is a certified
compensation professional (CCP), a member of WorldatWork, and the Chairman of the Local Network
Leadership Council for WorldatWork. Saado also serves on the Twin Cities Compensation Network
Board of Directors and is a member of the International City and County Management Association
(ICMA).
Saado enjoys outdoors sports like running and golfing. He also coaches and sponsors girls softball
teams in the local community. Saado is an avid reader and actively serves in his local community.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 5
Information Technology Solutions
How It Works
The Keystone Job Leveling System is an
open architecture system designed to
incorporate the most widely used
elements of job evaluation in order to
establish an internal job hierarchy. This
system is simple to use and incorporates
the most widely accepted compensable
factors to assign suitable levels to each
job. These levels are then converted into
points using a specialized spreadsheet.
The spreadsheet also provides an overall
report, sorted by level, for all jobs
evaluated to ensure evaluation results
are viewed as fair and credible.
Client organizations receive the guide
for the evaluation system as well as the
spreadsheet calculator so they can
maintain their evaluations internally.
Once the evaluation process is
complete, a regression analysis may be
used to assist with creating salary ranges
based on market data and the
evaluation points. The analysis enables
each organization to do comparisons
with the market and evaluate the
competitiveness of their overall pay
program. The system also facilitates the
process of assigning jobs to appropriate
grades when market data are scarce.
Five Evaluation Factors
These factors express how organizations choose to
reward their people and the requirements needed to
deliver business results.
1. Knowledge, Skills & Competence: The
knowledge and skills gained through education,
training, and the experience required for fulfilling
the overall purpose of the job.
2. Level of Responsibility: The impact by the
individual in the job on the achieving the
objectives of the team, department, business
function or organization.
3. Level of Complexity: Complexity refers to the
variety and diversity of the work assigned to the
job, as well as the complexity of the decisions
made to deliver certain results.
4. Contacts & Interpersonal Skills: The extent
to which the work involves making contacts,
communicating, negotiating, or influencing
decision-making with people inside and outside
the organization.
5. Working Conditions: Refers to exposure to
extreme temperature, unpleasant conditions,
exposure to injury, and health hazards in addition
to physical demands that are part of the regular
work environment.
K EY A SPECTS OF T HE
S YSTEM
Open architecture system that
relies on best practices in the
market place to assign levels to
jobs based on requirements of
the job and factors that are
found across all jobs in varying
degrees.
S TRONG L INK TO THE
M ARKET
Once jobs are evaluated,
organizations are on their way
to begin market analysis and
develop pay programs that are
externally competitive and that
also take internal equity into
consideration.
N O S PECIALIZED
S OFTWARE
The Keystone Job Leveling
System comes with a calculator
that converts the levels
assigned to points for each
factor and calculates the
overall job points accordingly.
For more information, please call
us at: 612.810.3522 or
Totalrewards@keystonecomp.net
Keystone Job Leveling System
A Point-Factor Job Evaluation Method
Evaluate jobs to determine appropriate pay for a position,
ensure internal equity, and effectively link your overall pay
program to the appropriate labor market.
www.keystonecomp.net
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 6
Established 11/97
______________________________________
City Manager Date
COMPENSATION PLAN
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 7
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION
PAGE NUMBER
I. EXECUTIVE LIMITATIONS
1
II. SCOPE
1
III. PURPOSE 1
IV. PRINCIPLES
A. Internal Equity
B. Market Based
C. Performance Based
D. Defined Pay Limit
E. Predictability
1
V. DEFINITIONS 2
VI. POSITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT 2
VII. JOB VALUES 3
VIII. SALARY ADMINISTRATION
A. Establish Salary Range
B. Progression Through Salary Range
C. Standard Adjustment
D. Adjusting Salary
E. New Hires
F. Successful Completion of
Probation
G. Temporary Job Value Increases
H. Mid-year Job Value Changes
3
IX. TRANSITION 5
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 8
1
COMPENSATION PLAN
FOR
THE CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK
I. EXECUTIVE LIMITATIONS
This plan is an authorized policy of the St. Louis Park City Council. The City Manager is
responsible for its execution and in so doing shall not allow, cause or permit the fiscal
integrity of the City, its ethical standards or public image to be jeopardized.
II. SCOPE
This plan affects all positions of employment within the City of St. Louis Park including
full-time and part-time positions in regular, temporary, or probationary status. In
instances where a labor agreement conflicts with this plan, the specific term(s) of the
labor agreement shall take precedence over this plan provided the labor agreement is
lawful.
III. PURPOSE
The purpose of this plan is to establish a fair and equitable method of determining and
maintaining base compensation in such a way which, over time, will allow the City to
attract and retain a competent work force.
IV. PRINCIPLES
In order to fulfill its purpose, the following principles shall govern the practices and
administration of the plan.
A. Internal Equity - Positions with comparable job values shall have the opportunity to
earn comparable salaries.
B. Market-Based - Salaries of City positions should be competitive within the
marketplace recognized as Stanton 5 cities (metro area cities with populations greater
than 25,000 but less than 90,000).
C. Performance-Based - Salary increases are limited to employees who perform
satisfactorily or better.
D. Defined Pay Limit - No position shall be permitted to have a base compensation
beyond the maximum of the pay range provided the range is deemed internally
equitable and market competitive.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 9
2
E. Predictability - The opportunities and limits of the plan shall be known from the start
and should be void of unreasonable and non-defensible changes.
V. DEFINITIONS
A. Job Value - A number representing the value of a position to the organization.
Determining the Job Value is derived from a point factoring system. Job Value is the
primary factor in determining compensation.
B. Market Value - Is the salary data from the annual Stanton Compensation Survey;
Group 5 represents metro area cities with populations between 25,000 and 90,000.
Market Value differs for exempt and non-exempt positions because of the availability
for paid overtime. Non-exempt employees use Q2 (fiftieth quartile) figures and
exempt employees use Q3 (seventy-fifth quartile) figures as measures. Changes in the
Market Values are a primary factor in determining annual adjustments to the Payline.
C. Comparable Rate - Used when a Market Value is not available. It is the actual pay
rate for a position from either internal or external sources which is materially similar
to the position in question.
D. Position Salary Range - Each position’s base compensation is represented in this
range defined by the Minimum Position Salary and the Payline.
1) Payline - The Payline represents the City’s desired salary for each position. The
Payline represents the City’s desired salary for each position. The Payline is
determined by a regression formula which compares the job value and market
value for each position. A Payline should be calculated each year based on current
data and reflects an appropriate level to ensure it does not fall behind the market.
(revised by Council 11/98).
2) Minimum Position Salary - The standard Minimum Position Salary shall be set at
85% of the Payline. If the result is greater than the Market Median, then the
Minimum Position Salary is set to the Market Median.
E. Standard Adjustment - Establishes a baseline for position salary adjustments and is
derived from the percentage movement in the Payline.
F. Apprenticeship - An employee, who for a defined period of time, may not meet the
minimum qualifications for a position but is doing so in hopes of becoming fully
qualified.
VI. POSITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
A. Authority - The City Manager is authorized to determine positions of employment,
their number, functional responsibilities, scope of authority and title provided any
other applicable laws, ordinances or Charter provisions are complied with.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 10
3
B. Budget Impact - The City Manager may modify, add or delete any position (except
City Manager) in order to meet the human resource needs of the City provided it is
lawful and done within the overall context of the City budget.
C. Notification - The City Manager shall keep the City Council current with changes to
position titles.
VII. JOB VALUES
Each position of employment in the City shall be assigned a number representing its
value in the organization. The City shall utilize a system which considers skill, effort,
responsibility and working conditions normally required in the performance of the job
duties. Each position shall be assured that its point value is kept reasonably current. Job
Value shall be a primary consideration in determining base pay.
VIII. SALARY ADMINISTRATION
Each authorized position in the City shall have established for it a permissible range of
base salary. The Payline represents the maximum for the position.
A. Establish the Salary Range
1. Identify Job Value according to the prescribed policy.
2. Identify the Market Value or its comparable.
3. Calculate the proper regression formula in order to determine the Payline. If the
Market Value (or Comparable Rate) exceeds the Payline, the Payline shall assume
the Market Value plus 3%.
4. Set the Minimum at 85% of Payline.
B. Progression through the Salary Range
Progression is dependent on satisfactory performance and in such cases the Payline
should be reached in 5 years barring any circumstance which places the financial
integrity of the City in such a condition that it would be imprudent for the City
Manager to make salary adjustments such as an unforeseen loss of revenue.
Therefore, the 5 years shall not be considered a guarantee or promise but a goal.
C. Standard Adjustment
The percentage movement in the Payline from one year to the next is known as the
Standard Adjustment. The City Manager shall approve the Standard Adjustment by
considering updated Market Value data from the Stanton Survey, changes in Job
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 11
4
Values and also such information as the CPI and general financial condition of the
City.
D. Adjusting Salary
Adjustments to Salary shall be made annually and according to the following
parameters:
1. Positions compensated at the Payline shall receive 100% of the Standard
Adjustment
2. Positions compensated below the Payline shall receive 200% of the Standard
Adjustment not to exceed the Payline.
3. Positions whose current compensation exceeds the Payline (because it was
determined prior to the implementation of this plan) shall be ineligible for a base
salary adjustment until such time the Payline exacts or surpasses it. However,
such positions are eligible to receive a lump sum payment equivalent to the
positions salary multiplied by the standard percentage adjustment. Employees
who receive lump sum adjustments for more than one year shall have the lump
sum based on the accumulative salary, not the first year salary.
E. New Hires
Newly hired employees shall have a starting salary commensurate with experience
and ability and shall typically be at the Minimum Salary Range. However; the City
Manager may approve exceptions above or below the minimum providing it is
prudent to do so. In such cases, the progression through the Salary Range may be
shortened or elongated.
F. Successful Completion of Probation
Employees deemed by their supervisor and approved by the City Manager as having
successfully completed a probationary period shall be eligible for a salary adjustment.
A typical probationary period is six months but may be extended if circumstances
warrant it. The amount may vary depending on the employee’s staring salary in
relation to the Payline and ability to achieve the Payline. A typical salary adjustment
is 5% for a position starting at the Minimum salary.
G. Temporary Job Value Increases
Positions assigned duties which materially increase the Value of the Job for a period
of at least three months are eligible for a temporary salary adjustment. A
temporary/present Payline shall be calculated using the temporary Job Value. The
amount of salary increase may be reasonable represented by the percentage increase
between the previous and temporary/present Paylines.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 12
5
IX. TRANSITION
Positions found to be compensated below 85% of the Payline as of July 1, 1997 shall
be brought up to said minimum retroactively. Regular implementation of the plan
shall begin on January 1, 1998.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 13
FiscalFull Time Part Time Seasonal UnionYearAndover31,298 Metro 52 2 10 18 $9,996,375.00 2014Apple Valley49,376 Metro 182 85 300 101 $29,649,030.00 2013Blaine58,020 Metro 178 13 114 91 $44,642,920.00 2014Bloomington84,701 Metro 538 150 300 200 $61,452,110.00 2014Brooklyn Center 29,810 Metro 156 190 36 72 $59,141,030.00 2013Brooklyn Park75,306 Metro 328 94 124 247 $124,698,400.00 2014Burnsville61,042 Metro 263 12 51 157 $85,226,750.00 2014Carver County89,615 Metro 547 64 25 573 $93,548,110.00 2011Coon Rapids63,162 Metro 226 55 90 129 $49,373,950.00 2013Cottage Grove34,502 Metro 125 8 100 86 $31,876,370.00 2013Eagan65,933 Metro 232 7 400 4 $30,000,000.00 2014Eden Prairie62,536 Metro 264 9 632 59 $61,650,300.00 2014Edina49,491 Metro 270 53 369 126 $91,450,000.00 2011Fridley26,347 Metro 124 65 224 40 $15,044,440.00 2014Inver Grove Heights 34,461 Metro 133 2 244 103 $13,900,000.00 2012Lakeville55,772 Metro 189 4489 $77,761,850.00 2014Maple Grove62,660 Metro 229 16 475 105 $35,270,300.00 2014Maplewood37,755 Metro 151 26 291 175 $34,759,760.00 2014Minnetonka51,451 Metro 218 13 240 108 $73,306,970.00 2013Oakdale27,344 Metro 88 10 30 25 $10,595,000.00 2007Plymouth71,930 Metro 243 8 500 180 $71,755,800.00 2013Richfield33,859 Metro 190 30 100 115 $59,061,300.00 2012Roseville34,178 Metro 162 84 150 74 $50,694,560.00 2014Savage27,567 Metro 107 71 30$12,932,560.00 2014Shakopee34,691 Metro 134 16162 $34,237,260.00 2013Shoreview25,882 Metro 78 2 10 0 $22,500,000.00 2010St. Louis Park46,293 Metro 253 5 90 126 $30,427,620.00 2014Woodbury59,338 Metro 217 33 162 98 $69,957,670.00 2014Organization Population RegionEmployee CountBudgetStudy Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4) Title: Compensation and Personnel ProgramsPage 14
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS SUMMARY - 2015
RETIREMENT: Public Employees Retirement Association (PERA www.mnpera.org)
Coordinated Plan: City contributes 7.5%, employee contributes 6.5%
Sworn Police & Fire: City contributes 16.2%, employee contributes 10.8%
HOLIDAYS: 10 paid holidays per calendar year: (note: union contracts may differ for union staff)
New Year’s Day (January 1)
Martin Luther King Day (3rd Monday in January)
President’s Day (3rd Monday in February)
Memorial Day (last Monday in May)
Independence Day (July 4)
Labor Day (1st Monday in September)
Veteran’s Day (November 11)
Thanksgiving Day (4th Thursday in November)
Day after Thanksgiving
Christmas Day (December 25)
When a holiday falls on a Saturday, the previous Friday is designated as the holiday; when on
a Sunday, the following Monday is designated as the holiday.
FLEX LEAVE: In general, employees begin with an accumulated Flex Leave balance of three days (part of
the first year accrual). Flex Leave is accumulated based on your years of service with the
City. Flex leave is accrued on a per pay period basis and may be used as earned.
NOTE: Differences may exist for 24-hr shift employees (Fire Captains), and Fire union
employees are not eligible for flex as they are on sick/vacation – see personnel manual and
union contract for more details).
Years of
Service
Days Off
(8 hour days)
Hours Earned
Each Year
0 - 4 24 192
5 - 10 29 232
11 30 240
12 31 248
13 32 256
14 33 264
15+ 34 272
PARENTAL LEAVE:
Benefit earning employees are eligible for up to 21 calendar days (3 weeks) of paid parental
leave when they become biological or adoptive parents. See Section 11.12 of the Personnel
Manual for more details.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 15
Benefit Summary 2015
HEALTH INSURANCE:
Employees may select from a “menu” of benefits under the City’s Flexible Benefits Plan.
The City contribution varies based on health plan and tier of health insurance coverage. See the chart
below:
HealthPartners $30 Co-Pay:
Tier of Coverage Premium City Contribution Total Employee
Cost
Single $744.00/month $885.00/month + $141.00/mo
Employee +
Spouse
$1,562.00/month $885.00/month ($677.00)/mo
Employee +
Child(ren)
$1,637.50/month $885.00/month ($752.50)/mo
Family $2,083.00/month $1,050.00/month ($1,033.00)/mo
HealthPartners $2,500 Deductible w/ HRA (VEBA):
Employees who choose this option will receive a monthly contribution from the City into
a VEBA account that can be used to pay for eligible medical expenses. Contribution
amount varies based on tier of health insurance coverage. See the chart below:
Tier of
Coverage
Premium City
Contribution
Total
Employee
Cost
VEBA
Contribution
Single $578.50/mo $740.00/mo + 161.50/mo $208.34/mo
Employee
+ Spouse
$1,214.00/mo $790.00/mo ($424.00)/m
o
$270.83/mo
Employee
+
Child(ren)
$1,273.00/mo $825.00/mo ($448.00)/m
o
$270.83/mo
Family $1,619.00/mo $1,050.00/mo ($569.00/mo $270.83/mo
Employees who waive coverage will receive $211.50 monthly contribution from the City.
This amount will be pro-rated for benefit-earning part-time employees regularly
scheduled to work 20-29 hours per week.
DENTAL INSURANCE: Voluntary coverage available
Single $ 43.65/month
EE+Spouse $ 87.75/month
EE+Child(ren) $ 82.50/month
Family $ 105.80/month
BASIC AND SUPPLEMENTAL LIFE INSURANCE:
Basic life is a mandatory deduction: $10,000 at $1.69/month. Exempt employees
receive additional basic insurance in the amount of 1.5 times annual salary.
The City also offers supplemental life insurance to be voluntarily purchased for the
employee, employee’s spouse, and/or children at group rates.
FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNTS:
Employees may set aside tax-free dollars for medical or daycare expenses for reimbursement.
Vendor for reimbursements is Genesis Benefits.
SHORT-TERM DISABILITY (STD):
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 16
Benefit Summary 2015
This self-insured plan is provided by the City at no cost to eligible employees.
The STD plan is offered with the Flex Leave Plan (not available to Fire union members
who are on sick/vacation leave).
After 15 work days/120 hours of personal illness or injury, the employee is eligible for
STD, medical certification required.
STD covers 67% of an employee’s salary up to 130 days. (100% coverage for exempt
employees).
Can use other accrued or frozen leave to supplement the other 33% of leave.
LONG-TERM DISABILITY (LTD):
Provided by the city at no cost to all employees.
Taxable benefit is 60% of monthly salary.
Third party vendor is Cigna.
DEFERRED COMPENSATION:
Voluntary contributions to 457 plans (three vendors to choose from)
Employees may set aside tax-free dollars to invest in funds for retirement.
City contribution of $10 per pay period if employee contributes at least $50 per pay
period.
LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE:
Voluntary insurance coverage available
Staff can purchase insurance for home health, nursing home, or other care that is not
covered by health insurance.
Coverage available for employees and spouses, parents, and grandparents of employees.
Benefit has non-forfeiture and automatic benefit increase options.
CREDIT UNION:
City staff are eligible to join the United Educators Credit Union
Checking and savings accounts available
Auto and home loans available
ONSITE FITNESS FACILITY:
Exercise equipment available 24/7 at Fire Station 1
Eligible participants are benefit-earning staff, Paid-On-Call Firefighters, Police Cadets
and Reserves, and Elected Officials
Waiver is required before use
WELLNESS INCENTIVE:
Cash incentive ($40/month) available to benefit-earning employees who participate
preventive wellness activities.
This document is a summary for informational purposes only. Please refer to policy documents for details or changes to any item listed
above. This summary is not to be used as a contract or guarantee. If you have further questions regarding the above benefits, feel free to
call the Human Resources Office at 952-924-2520.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 17
1
PERSONNEL
MANUAL
Revised: January 26, 2015
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 18
01/2008
WELCOME TO THE CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK!
We are pleased to welcome you as an employee of the City of St. Louis Park. You have
joined a group of talented individuals dedicated to enriching the lives of the citizens we
serve.
It is our mission to deliver responsive municipal services to ensure a safe, welcoming and
vital community now and in the future. We foster a working environment committed to
respect, contribution and stewardship. As an employee with the City of St. Louis Park,
your growth and professional development will be encouraged and supported.
The City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual summarizes the current personnel policies.
The Personnel Manual does not constitute an employment contract; rather it is provided
as a guideline and may be amended from time to time as necessary. Feel free to contact
your supervisor, human resources, or myself at anytime with questions.
On behalf of the City Council and staff, we welcome you as a member of our team and
wish you the best during your employment with the City of St. Louis Park.
Sincerely,
Thomas K. Harmening
City Manager
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 19
i
Table of Contents
Section 1 Purpose, Adoption and Administration
1.1 Purpose 1
1.2 Adoption and Amendment of Policies 1
1.3 Administration 1
1.4 Savings Clause 1
1.5 Department Rules 1
1.6 Application 1
1.7 At-will Employment 2
1.8 Employment Guidelines 2
1.9 Labor Agreements 2
1.10 Management Rights 2
1.11 Work Rules and Policies 2
Section 2 Definitions 3
Section 3 Employment
3.1 Authorization of Positions and Recruitment 6
3.2 Background Investigations 6
3.3 Employment of Relatives 6
3.4 Employment - Nondiscrimination 7
3.5 Probationary Period 7
3.6 Probationary Period - Leave Benefits 8
3.7 Temporary Appointments 8
Section 4 Work Schedules
4.1 Attendance 9
4.2 Flexible Daily Work Hours 9
4.3 Hours of Work, Meals and Breaks 9
Section 5 Employee Records
5.1 Job Description 10
5.2 Official Record 10
5.3 Personnel Files 10
5.4 Employee Identification 10
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 20
ii
Section 6 Compensation
6.1 Compensation Plan 11
6.2 Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) 11
6.3 FLSA Exempt Employee 11
6.4 FLSA Non–exempt Employees - Overtime 11
6.5 FLSA Non–exempt Employees - Compensatory Time 11
6.6 Overtime/Compensatory Time 11
6.7 FLSA Non–exempt Employee Comp Time Cash Out 11
6.8 FLSA Non–exempt Employee Call Back 12
6.9 FLSA Non-exempt Employee On Call Pay 12
6.10 Police Lieutenant Additional Duty Pay 12
6.11 Reclassification 12
6.12 Wage Disclosure Protection 12
Section 7 Benefits
7.1 Eligibility 13
7.2 Health Coverage 13
7.3 Dental Benefits 13
7.4 Life Insurance 13
7.5 Public Employee Retirement Association: P.E.R.A. 13
7.6 Deferred Compensation Program 13
7.7 Flexible Benefits Plan 13
7.8 Direct Deposit and Credit Union 13
Section 8 Holidays
8.1 Holidays 14
8.2 Regular Part-time Employees 14
8.3 Holidays Worked 14
Section 9 Flex Leave
9.1 Flex Leave and Accruals 15
9.2 Flex Leave Accrual – Regular Full-time Employees 15
9.3 Flex Leave Accrual – Regular Part-time Employees 15
9.4 Flex Leave Cap 15
9.5 Annual Transfer of Accumulated Flex Leave 16
9.6 Flex Leave – Severance 16
9.7 Flex Leave – Frozen Sick Leave Balance 16
9.8 Flex Leave – New/Probationary Employees 16
9.9 Flex Leave Request – Planned Absences 17
9.10 Flex Leave Request – Unplanned Absences 17
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 21
iii
9.11 Transition to Flex Leave 17
9.12 Paid Time Off Program 17
Section 10 Short-term Disability (STD)
10.1 Program Eligibility 18
10.2 Program Statement 18
10.3 Disability 18
10.4 STD Pay 18
10.5 Waiting Period 19
10.6 Benefits Status 19
10.7 How to Request STD 19
10.8 Return to Work 19
Section 11 Leave
11.1 Leave of Absence 20
11.2 Limitation of Grants of Leave Without Compensation 20
11.3 Leave Extension Request 20
11.4 Reinstatement From Leave of Absence 20
11.5 Bone Marrow Donation Leave 20
11.6 Election Days 20
11.7 Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) 21
11.8 Funeral Leave 23
11.9 Jury Duty 23
11.10 Military Leave 23
11.11 Parental Leave for School Conferences 24
11.12 Parenting Leave 24
Section 12 Separation from Employment
12.1 Termination 25
12.2 Use of Leave Upon Termination 25
12.3 Reduction in Force 25
12.4 Continuation of Benefits Upon Separation - COBRA 25
12.5 Benefits for City Retirees 25
12.6 Health Care Savings Plan 26
Section 13 Discipline and Grievance
13.1 Discipline 28
13.2 Grievance Procedure 28
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 22
iv
Section 14 Employee Development
14.1 Performance Reports 29
14.2 In-service Training 29
14.3 Conferences and Workshops 29
14.4 Tuition Reimbursement 29
14.5 Education Incentive for Police Cadets 30
14.6 Police Trainee Program 30
Section 15 Expense Reimbursement
15.1 Mileage Reimbursement 31
15.2 Expense Reimbursement 31
15.3 City Vehicles 32
15.4 Car Allowance 32
15.5 Civic Club Membership 32
15.6 Uniforms and Clothing Allowance 32
15.7 Public Purpose Expenditure 32
Section 16 Conduct
16.1 Conflicts of Interest 36
16.2 Gifts and Gratuities 36
16.3 Honesty 37
16.4 Political Activity 37
16.5 Relationship with Co-workers 38
16.6 Sexual Harassment Prevention 38
16.7 Solicitation: Employee–to–Employee 39
16.8 Workplace Conduct Policy 40
16.9 Workplace and Professional Appearance 40
16.10 Minnesota Government Data Practices Act 40
Section 17 Computer, Communications and Equipment
17.1 Computer, Communications and Equipment 42
17.2 MN Data Practices Act and Records Retention 42
17.3 Security 42
17.4 Software Acquisition, Support, and Use 43
17.5 Hardware Acquisition, Support, and Use 43
17.6 Remote Connections and Special Applications 43
17.7 File Names and Storage Space Usage, Limitations, and
Maintenance
43
17.8 Using Electronic Equipment 43
17.9 Reasonable Personal Use 44
17.10 Additional Requirements Regarding Use 44
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 23
v
Section 18 Health and Safety
18.1 Employee Safety 45
18.2 Worker’s Compensation 45
18.3 Alternative Duty 45
18.4 Injury on Duty – Sworn Employees 46
18.5 Drug-free Workplace Policy 46
18.6 Licenses 47
18.7 Flex/Sick Leave for Fitness 47
18.8 Safety Eyewear 48
18.9 Smoking Policy 48
18.10 Workplace Violence 49
Section 19 Paid-on-Call Firefighters
19.1 Paid-on-Call Employment Definition 50
19.2 Paid-on-Call Employees and the Personnel Rules 50
19.3 Other Terms and Conditions of Employment 50
Section 20 Fire Department Shift Supervisors: Fire Captain
20.1 Fire Department Shift Supervisors: Fire Captain
General Rule
51
20.2 Flex Leave – Fire Department Shift Supervisors 51
20.3 Transition to Flex Leave 52
20.4 Short Term Disability 53
20.5 Funeral Leave 53
20.6 Holiday 53
20.7 Call Back 53
20.8 Injury on Duty 53
20.9 Planned and Unplanned Absence 53
20.10 Schedules 53
20.11 Personnel Policy 53
20.12 Overtime 53
Section 21 Drug and Alcohol Testing
21.1 Drug and Alcohol Testing 54
21.2 Definitions 54
21.3 General 55
21.4 Circumstances for Drug and Alcohol Testing 55
21.5 Refusal to Undergo Testing 56
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 24
vi
21.6 Procedure for Testing 57
21.7 Tampering With the Urine or Blood Sample 57
21.8 Rights of Employees 57
21.9 Action after Test 58
21.10 Data Privacy 59
21.11 Appeals Procedure 59
21.12 Other Misconduct 59
21.13 Administrative Responsibility 59
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 25
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 1
Approved 9/1/01
1
Section 1: Purpose, Adoption & Administration
1.1 Purpose
The purpose of these policies is to provide a uniform, comprehensive, and efficient system of
personnel administration for the City based upon merit and fitness for the position.
1.2 Adoption and Amendment of Policies
These policies and regulations were prepared by the City Manager and can be amended or
replaced as needed. Sections of these were approved by the City Council and can be amended as
needed.
1.3 Administration
Personnel policies are administered by the City Manager who is directly accountable to the City
Council. The City Manager may establish administrative policies and rules as may be
appropriate to administer the employment practices of the City. The City Manager is also
responsible for administration of personnel policies adopted by Council. The City Manager is
directed to develop and provide the necessary forms, procedures and instruction for the
implementation of policies. The City Manager has the authority to interpret, develop, change,
add and delete policies. The City Manager shall make every appointment to a position of City
employment, except when state law, City Charter, or ordinance otherwise provides. Each
appointment shall be based on merit and qualifications for the position as determined by the City
Manager. Except as otherwise provided by state law, City Charter, or ordinance, the City
Manager or designee shall make all decisions regarding discipline of City employees, including
suspension and termination. (Resolution 01-078)
1.4 Savings Clause
If a personnel policy is held invalid by judicial or legislative action, the remainder of these
policies will not be affected.
1.5 Department Rules
In accordance with these policies, each department head may establish departmental rules of
procedure and/or policy that do not conflict with these regulations. Department heads are not
restricted from defining additional guidelines or policies. Departmental rules and/or policy must
be approved by the City Manager prior to implementation.
1.6 Application
All offices, jobs, and positions in City service and housing authority now existing or hereafter
established are subject to the personnel policies except the following and unless otherwise
specified:
Elected officials
Paid-on-call or volunteer firefighters
City Manager
City Attorney
Members of appointed commissions and committees
Persons engaged under contract (independent contractor) to supply expert, professional,
technical, or any other services; or those excluded by these policies or law (Resolution 01-
078)
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 26
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 1
Approved 9/1/01
2
1.7 At-Will Employment
All City employees are hired on an at-will basis, which means that the employer can discharge
an employee at any time for any reason, with or without notice, and the employee can resign at
any time for any reason, with or without notice. (Resolution 01-078)
1.8 Employment Guidelines
These policies are guidelines for the City and its employees regarding City employment. It does
not constitute an employment contract. The City reserves the right to change any personnel
policy at any time at its discretion.
1.9 Labor Agreements
With respect to employees whose positions are included in a collective bargaining unit,
provisions of the applicable collective bargaining agreements negotiated pursuant to the Public
Employment Labor Relations Act, M.S. l79A.0l-l79A.25, supersede these policies on any subject
area covered by both the collective bargaining agreement and these policies.
1.10 Management Rights
The City, through the City Manager, retains the full and unrestricted right to operate and manage
all personnel, facilities, and equipment; to establish functions and programs; to set and amend
budgets; to determine the utilization of technology; to establish and modify the organizational
structure; to select, direct, and determine the number of personnel; to establish work schedules,
and to perform any inherent managerial function not specifically limited by current collective
bargaining agreements, these regulations, and City Council resolutions.
1.11 Work Rules and Policies
These policies describe work conduct expected of all City of St. Louis Park employees. These
may be expanded upon or modified from time-to-time as deemed appropriate by the City
Manager. Such additional or modified work rules or policies will be communicated to
employees.
No attempt has been made here to address all possible work situations or to identify every
possible form of employee misconduct. Employees of the City of St. Louis Park are expected to
exercise reasonable and proper judgment in all aspects of their employment and to conduct
themselves in a responsible, business-like manner at all times. Conduct that has a negative effect
upon the City, or its safe and productive operation, or other persons, is prohibited.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 27
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 2
Revised 12/18/14
3
Section 2: Definitions
Unless otherwise indicated, the following words and terms have meanings indicated below:
Appointing Authority – The City Manager or other City employee to whom the Manager has delegated
authority to appoint personnel.
Appointment - A regular assignment to a paid position in the City service.
City – The City of St. Louis Park.
City Council - The elected members who serve on the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park.
Days - A day is one 8-hour period, unless otherwise specified.
Demotion - A change of an employee’s status from a position in one job class to a position in another
job class with less responsible duties and a lower salary range.
Department head - Those who are responsible for management of a department as determined by the
City Manager, City Charter or ordinance.
Elected Official - Members of the City Council.
Employee – A person holding a paid position in the City service.
Employment Status-
A. Regular - refers to employees who have successfully completed their probationary period of
employment with the City. These employees may work varying numbers of hours per week and
they are regularly scheduled for a set number of hours per week. The work they perform is of an
on-going nature as approved by the City Manager.
Regular Full-time - An employee in a position classified to work a 40-hour workweek and
was hired for an indefinite service duration approved by the City Manager.
Regular Part-time - An employee in a position classified to work less than 40 hours per
week on a regular basis for an indefinite service duration approved by the City Manager.
Regular part-time employees who work less than 20 hours a week are not eligible for
benefits.
B. Non-regular - Refers to variable hour employment in the following categories: temporary,
community service cadet, seasonal, student or intern. Non-regular employees are not eligible for
City employee benefits except those mandated by law.
Temporary – An employee whose employment is limited by duration of a specific project or
task; temporary employees may not be appointed for a period to exceed 24 consecutive
months.
Community Service Cadet – A non-benefit earning employee who works less than a 30
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 28
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 2
Revised 12/18/14
4
hour work week providing support services to the Police Department with the intent to attend
school and become eligible for POST licensure. Cadets may not be appointed for a period to
exceed 48 consecutive months.
Seasonal – A non-benefit earning employee who works for a limited duration in position(s)
that do not extend for one complete year. Seasonal employees are typically hired for
program or project based seasonal activities.
Student or Intern - A non-benefit earning employee who is enrolled full-time in a public,
non-profit, or private educational institution or who has completed such course work. The
work schedule of the student or intern will be developed by the City Manager or department
head based on the needs of the department and the educational requirements. Students or
interns may work on a part-time or full-time basis or both. Internships typically last a
maximum of one year unless extended by the City Manager for an additional limited
duration.
C. Fire Department – Due to the nature of work, type of shifts and schedules needed to operate a
full-time Fire department, a 40 hour work schedule may not be utilized. In those cases, the
relationship between the Fire department employee’s work schedule and a 40 hour workweek
schedule will be used to compute those policies for which a 40 hour schedule is used. The Fire
Chief, with the approval of the City Manager, shall determine this relationship.
D. Paid On-call Firefighter – See section 19.
E. Probationary Employee - An employee who is serving a probationary period in a position
which the employee was appointed, promoted, demoted, reclassified or reinstated.
FLSA - Fair Labor Standards Act which is a federal law regarding minimum wage and overtime
compensation, classifying positions as exempt or non-exempt.
FLSA Exempt Employee - Employees specifically exempt from the overtime compensation provisions
(not eligible for overtime) of applicable FLSA legislation as defined and limited by administrative rules
and regulations; these employees generally have as their primary duty management, administration, or
work of a professional nature.
FLSA Non-exempt - Employees who are entitled to a minimum wage and overtime compensation
pursuant to applicable FLSA legislation.
Immediate Family - The immediate family includes the following individuals of the employee and the
employee’s spouse or registered domestic partner: mother, father, siblings, spouse or registered
domestic partner, children, and grandparents unless specifically stated otherwise.
Layoff - A separation of employees necessitated by lack of work, lack of funds, the abolition of a
position, organization change, or any other management reason.
Military Leave - The leave of absence granted by state law to employees entering active duty in the
armed forces of the United States.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 29
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 2
Revised 12/18/14
5
Overtime - All hours actually worked in excess of 40 by a regular non-exempt employee in a workweek
consisting of seven consecutive days (168 hours). (Definition does not include public safety positions.)
Position - A group of current duties and responsibilities requiring the full-time or part-time employment
of a person.
Probationary Period – A working trial period during which an employee is required to demonstrate
fitness for the position to which appointed. Typical probationary period is six months, beginning at the
date of appointment, unless otherwise stated.
Promotion - A change of an employee from a position of one job to a position of another job with more
responsible duties and a higher salary range or job value.
Reclassification – A change in classification of an individual position by raising it to a higher job class,
reducing it to a lower job class, or moving it to another job class approved by the City Manager.
Veteran - A person entitled to veteran’s preference pursuant to Minnesota and United States statutes.
Workweek - A period of seven consecutive days (l68 hours) beginning at 12:0l a.m. each Saturday
(unless otherwise specified and approved by the department head and Human Resources).
Workday – 8 hours, to be used for full time calculation of benefits, leave, etc., unless otherwise
specified.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 30
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 3
Revised 12/17/13
6
Section 3: Employment
3.1 Authorization of Positions and Recruitment
Department heads will notify the City Manager and make recommendations when a replacement
vacancy exists in a department or when there is a desire to fill a newly created position. The City
Manager will review the request and recommendations and advise the department head on the
proper course of action. The City Manager is the final authority in determining the number,
types and filling of all positions. The recruitment of applicants for employment with the City
shall take place at the direction of the City Manager through Human Resources. (Resolution 01-
078)
3.2 Background Investigations
In order to screen employment and volunteer applicants, the Police Department is authorized to
access data maintained in the MN Bureau of Criminal Apprehensions Computerized Criminal
History information in accordance with BCA policy. A criminal history background
investigation will not be requested until the applicant has been selected for an interview or
provided a conditional offer of employment or volunteering and the applicant has provided
written consent. Failure to provide a written consent may disqualify the applicant for the
position sought. If the police are unable to conduct a criminal history background investigation,
the appointing authority may contract with a consultant to handle this process for the City.
Except for positions set forth in M.S.A. 364.09, no person shall be disqualified from employment
or volunteering because of prior convictions of crimes unless convictions directly relate to the
position sought, or if applicant provides competent evidence of sufficient rehabilitation. If the
City rejects an applicant for employment based upon the criminal history background
investigation, applicant will be notified in writing of: grounds for denial, complaint and
grievance procedure set forth in M.S.A. 364.06, earliest date of reapplication for employment,
and that competent evidence of rehabilitation will be considered upon reapplication.
Human Resources is responsible for coordination of background investigations through the
Police department in cooperation with supervisors of the City. This section does not apply to
reference checks.
3.3 Employment of Relatives
The City will not employ two members of the same immediate family or those that reside in the
same household under any one of the following circumstances:
Where one employee will directly and/or indirectly supervise another member of their
family (includes seasonal and temporary employees).
Where one employee will be responsible for auditing the work of another member of
their family.
Where confidentiality of the City would be compromised.
Where a conflict of interest would arise from such employment.
The City Manager has the final decision in regards to employment matters. This policy also
applies to Mayor and Council, their immediate family and household members. (Resolution 01-
078) Employees who may be currently in violation of 3.3 at the date of adoption will be allowed
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 31
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 3
Revised 12/17/13
7
to remain at their current status (as it relates to employment of relatives) unless otherwise
determined by the City Manager.
Effective March 29, 2012, the City will not hire Seasonal or Temporary (non-benefit-earning)
employees who are immediate family members of a Regular (benefit-earning) employee.
(Note: Employees who have previously, within the past calendar year for Seasonal, and currently
are Temporary status at the date of adoption are allowed to be re-hired into a Seasonal or remain
in a Temporary position in accordance with Section 2 unless otherwise determined by the City
Manager. If the Seasonal employee does not return, they are no longer eligible for this
exception.)
3.4 Employment - Nondiscrimination
The City is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunity. This commitment is also part
of the City’s effort to prepare for a more diverse and representative workforce.
The City will not discriminate against job applicants, employees, or members of the public
because of: race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, status with regard to
public assistance, membership or activity in a local human rights commission, disability, sexual
orientation, age, or genetic information. The City also will not tolerate discriminatory
harassment against an employee, job applicant, or member of the public based on any of these
traits. Any employee who believes they are subject to or witnessed discrimination should
contact their supervisor, Human Resources, or the City Manager.
Retaliation against a person for complaining of possible discrimination is prohibited. An
employee may also file a formal complaint with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights or
other enforcement agencies such as the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
3.5 Probationary Period
The probationary period for regular employees shall be six months beginning immediately upon
appointment to a regular position (unless otherwise stated or extended by the appointing
authority or their designee). Paid-on-call firefighters will serve a one year probationary period.
The department head may recommend an earlier completion or extension of probation of an
employee. At anytime during the probationary period an employee may be discharged, demoted,
or reassigned summarily at the sole discretion of the appointing authority. (Resolution 01-078)
The City requires all regular employees to serve a probationary period of employment whether it
is a new appointment, promotion, demotion, reclassification or reinstatement. Time served in
temporary, seasonal, volunteer, student, or intern positions (non-regular positions) is not
considered part of the probationary period. The probationary period is an extension of the
examination process and is utilized by supervisors and department heads for closely observing
the employee’s work.
The employee’s supervisor must prepare a probationary performance evaluation report along
with a final recommendation to the department head prior to the completion of the probationary
period. The City Manager makes final determination on any probationary and/or hiring
decisions.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 32
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 3
Revised 12/17/13
8
3.6 Probationary Period – Leave Benefits
An employee who separates from the City without successfully completing their probationary
period shall forfeit any flex, sick and vacation leave accrued. (Resolution 01-078) See Section 9.8
for more information.
3.7 Temporary Appointments
The appointing authority may make temporary appointments to regular positions as needed and
in the best interest of the City.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 33
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 4
Revised 4/1/11
9
Section 4: Work Schedules
4.1 Attendance
Employees shall work the normal hours and the minimum number of hours a week as established
for their positions in their respective departments. Departments shall keep attendance records of
employees. Each employee shall ensure that time worked and absences are correctly reported
and the distribution of hours worked are charged to their proper accounts. Failure to correctly
report time and/or falsification of documents may result in discipline up to and including
termination. Unauthorized leave in excess of three workdays is considered resignation not in
good standing by the employee.
4.2 Flexible Daily Work Hours
Notwithstanding the normally established and observed daily work hours for employees,
employees may, with the express written approval of their department head, establish and
observe individual flexible daily work hours. Individual flexible daily work hours shall not be
permitted where such has an adverse impact on the employer’s operation or on other employees.
Flexible schedules, if approved, are on a case by case basis for a timeframe determined by the
department head with no long-term guarantee. Approval of continued flexible schedule is at the
discretion of the supervisor. (Employees who flex schedules to allow for a longer workday are
expected to include a 30-minute non-paid meal break within their workday). A request to work
at home is considered a flexible daily work hour request and must comply with 4.2.
4.3 Hours of Work, Meals and Breaks
A workweek consists of seven consecutive days (l68 hours) beginning at 12:01 a.m. each
Saturday. The regular workweek for full-time City employees is 40 hours; 80 hours constitutes a
normal pay period. Normally, City offices will be open for business Monday through Friday
from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Regular office hours may be changed by the City Manager. The
hours of work and work schedules within each division and department will be set by the
department head, with approval of the City Manager. Part-time employees must work according
to the schedule set up by their supervisor.
In most cases, full-time employees will have one uninterrupted meal period of no less than one-
half hour per day. Meal periods are not paid, not included in the computation of overtime, nor
included in the computation of a normal work shift or payroll period. Rest periods will be 15
minutes in each four-hour period for FLSA non-exempt employees. Meal periods may not be
accumulated or taken at the end or beginning of the employee’s shift on a regular basis. Nursing
mothers are allowed a reasonable break in accordance with Federal and State regulations.
Exempt employees are required to work the hours necessary to perform their job at their
established rate of pay.
Essential employees (sworn police and fire), as defined by law, and other public safety
employees, may be required to work a different schedule due to the specialized nature of their
employment.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 34
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 5
Revised 4/1/11
10
Section 5: Employee Records
5.1 Job Description
The City Manager, with the assistance of Human Resources and department heads, will establish
and maintain a job description for each position. Job descriptions will be reviewed and revised
as needed. Human Resources will maintain the official copy of each current job description for
regular positions.
5.2 Official Record
The City’s computerized payroll system is the official record for leave and compensatory
balances.
5.3 Personnel Files
The official personnel file for each regular employee is maintained in the Human Resources
office. The contents of an employee’s personnel file are proprietary to the City. The employee
may review the file every six months unless new information has been added to the file.
5.4 Employee Identification
As a condition of employment, all regular employees may be issued an identification card which
contains personal information and a picture. Employees may be required to display their
identification card upon request or to wear their identification card in a visible location while
working. Department heads are responsible for determining appropriate wearing requirements
for identification cards in their respective departments.
Identification cards may be provided to temporary or seasonal employees as determined by the
department head.
Employees are responsible for their identification cards, and are not allowed to loan their cards to
any other employee or person. Making, or attempting to make, unauthorized copies of
identification cards is prohibited. If identification cards are damaged, lost, or stolen, employees
are required to notify their supervisor immediately. If need for replacement identification card is
due to employee negligence, the employee may be charged replacement costs.
Upon termination of employment or identification card expiration, employees are required to
return their identification card(s) to their supervisor.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 35
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 6
Revised 12/18/14
11
Section 6: Compensation
6.1 Compensation Plan
The Council shall by resolution establish and revise a compensation plan as needed. A copy of
the compensation plan and subsequent revisions shall be placed on file with the City Clerk.
(Resolution 01-078)
6.2 Fair Labor Standards Act
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) is a federal law which sets minimum wage, overtime pay,
equal pay, record keeping, and child labor standards for employees. FLSA mandates that the
City classifies employees in regards to overtime/compensatory time as one of the following
categories: FLSA exempt employee or FLSA non-exempt employee. Statements regarding
FLSA are general interpretations, see FLSA for details. See FLSA for overtime on seasonal
facilities, law enforcement and fire protection employees.
6.3 FLSA Exempt Employee
Exempt employees are not paid for overtime over 40 hours unless otherwise provided by
collective bargaining or contract agreement.
6.4 FLSA Non-exempt Employees - Overtime
Regular non-exempt employees, who work more than a 40 hour workweek, will be compensated
at one and one-half times (1 ½) their regular (base) rate of pay. (Resolution 01-078) Effective
January 1, 2012, paid holidays are counted as time worked for the purpose of computing
overtime hours (non-contractual employees). Unpaid leave, flex leave and comp time used are
not counted toward hours worked.
Employees under contract must follow contract language and department policy on hours
worked, schedules and calculation of overtime. Overtime calculation will be in accordance with
FLSA and department head authorization.
6.5 FLSA Non-exempt Employees - Compensatory Time
Compensatory time (comp time) may be granted by the employee’s department head or
designated supervisor in lieu of overtime pay. Compensatory time shall be at the rate of one and
one half (1 ½) times the hours worked in excess of the established workweek. Paid holidays are
counted as time worked for the purpose of computing comp time hours. Unpaid leave and flex
leave are not counted toward hours worked. Granting of compensatory time is at the discretion
of the department head. The maximum total compensatory time balance shall not exceed 40
hours per employee.
6.6 Overtime/Compensatory Time
All overtime and comp time must be pre-approved by the department head or designated
supervisor prior to working overtime or comp time. Failure to obtain prior approval may result
in discipline.
6.7 FLSA – Non-exempt Employee Comp Time Cash Out
A non-exempt employee may cash out up to 40 hours of comp time accrued once each calendar
year as stated in a policy approved by the City Manager. (Resolution 01-078)
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 36
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 6
Revised 12/18/14
12
Request for cash out must be made in writing to Human Resources between October 1 through
October 10, and will be paid the first payroll in November unless otherwise notified. Cash out
will be limited to the balance accrued as of the first payroll in November up to a maximum of 40
hours.
6.8 FLSA – Non-exempt Employee Call Back
A non-exempt employee called back to work at a time other than a normal scheduled shift for
reasons other than training shall receive a minimum of two hours pay at one and one-half times
the employee’s regular base hourly rate. Reporting early for a shift, extension for a shift or
schedule change shall not qualify for a call back premium. (Resolution 01-078)
6.9 FLSA – Non-exempt Employee On Call Pay (effective 1/1/14)
A non-exempt employee who is assigned in writing in advance by his/her supervisor to serve in
an on call assignment shall receive supplemental pay of $140 per week, to be prorated if less
than one week. On call assignments typically require an employee to carry a phone, pager, or
other device and be available to respond and/or report for duty at all times during the assignment.
Employees who are serving an on call assignment are responsible for complying with all relevant
City policies while on call. Supervisors have discretion in determining additional criteria for on
call assignments. (Resolution 13-163)
6.10 Police Lieutenant Additional Duty Pay (effective 1/1/14)
A Police Lieutenant who agrees to work an additional duty assignment at the request of the
Police Chief shall be compensated at a rate approved by the City Manager. The Chief of Police
will review this program on an annual basis and make recommendations to the City Manager.
The City Council authorizes the City Manager to administer this program including setting the
rate of pay and conditions of payment and/or elimination of program. (Resolution 13-183)
6.11 Reclassification
When the duties of a position change substantially, the department head or Human Resources
may request or the City Manager may initiate a review of the duties of the positions. Based on
the results of the review, the City Manager may reclassify the position.
6.12 Wage Disclosure Protection
Under the Minnesota Wage Disclosure Protection law, employees have the right to tell any
person the amount of their wages. The City cannot retaliate against employees disclosing their
own wages. Remedies under the Wage Disclosure Protection law are to bring a civil action
against the City and/or file a complaint with the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry at
(651) 284-5070 or 1-800-342-5354.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 37
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 7
Revised 4/1/11
13
Section 7: Benefits
Plans listed below may change based on policy restrictions and availability or as otherwise determined
by the City Manager. This section is provided as a summary, details on all plans and additional
information are available from Human Resources.
7.1 Eligibility
Regular full-time and regular part-time employees who work 20 hours per week or more as
determined by the City Manager may be eligible for benefits. Benefit levels and participation by
employees in such plans is determined by the City Manager and in accordance with policy
documents, as offered through the cafeteria benefit plan. The City will provide a contribution for
regular full-time employees and regular part-time employees as approved by City Council. The
City Manager has the discretion to change benefits and/or cafeteria benefit plan.
7.2 Health Coverage
Health benefits may be provided for benefit eligible employees through the employer’s benefit
plan. Plans are subject to policy documents.
7.3 Dental Benefits
Dental benefits may be provided for benefit eligible employees through the employer’s benefit
plan. Plans are subject to policy documents.
7.4 Life Insurance
Life insurance may be provided for benefit eligible employees through the employer’s benefit
plan. Plans are subject to policy documents.
7.5 P.E.R.A.
Public Employees Retirement Association participation will be maintained for regular full and
part-time employees or as regulations specify. Plans are subject to PERA regulations.
7.6 Deferred Compensation Program
The City provides employees the opportunity to participate in a deferred compensation plan.
This is a voluntary plan that allows employees to place a portion of their earnings into a pretax
deferred investment program. Plans are subject to regulations.
7.7 Flexible Benefits Plan
The City offers an optional plan in which a portion of the regular employee’s salary can be set
aside to cover estimated health care and day care costs. Please see plan document for criteria
regarding the flexible benefit plan. The employee must expend all the money set aside in the
flexible benefit plan within the calendar year or lose it. Proof of medical and day care expenses
must be submitted. Plans are subject to IRS regulations.
7.8 Direct Deposit and Credit Union
The City requires direct deposit and offers the option of joining the employee credit union.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 38
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 8
Approved 9/1/01
14
Section 8: Holidays
8.1 Holidays
The City recognizes 10 eight hour days (80 hours) as paid holidays for regular full-time
employees and 10 pro-rated days as paid holidays for regular part-time employees each year.
Holiday Date
New Year’s Day January 1
Martin Luther King Day Third Monday in January
President’s Day Third Monday in February
Memorial Day Last Monday in May
Independence Day July 4
Labor Day First Monday in September
Veteran’s Day November 11
Thanksgiving Day Fourth Thursday in November
Friday after Thanksgiving Friday after Thanksgiving
Christmas Day December 25
When a holiday falls on a Saturday, the previous Friday is designated as the holiday; when on a
Sunday, the following Monday is designated as the holiday.
A staff member wishing to take time off because of a holiday recognized by his/her religion
should be permitted to do so following consultation with his/her supervisor. Time must be taken
off without pay except where the employee has accumulated flex, compensatory time, or
vacation and in that case such religious holidays may be charged against such leave
accumulations at the option of the employee.
8.2 Regular Part-time Employees
Regular part-time employees are paid for holidays on a pro-rated basis, according to their
budgeted full-time equivalent (FTE) status. For example, if an employee occupies a position
budgeted as .5 FTE, he or she will receive 4 hours paid time off for each holiday. Employees
who occupy a position budgeted as .75 FTE receive 6 hours paid time off for each holiday.
8.3 Holidays Worked
A non-exempt employee who works on a holiday will be compensated for hours worked as
overtime in addition to pay for holiday. (Resolution 01-078)
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 39
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 9
Revised 4/1/11
15
Section 9: Flex Leave
9.1 Flex Leave and Accruals
The City of St. Louis Park provides employees with paid time off for rest, relaxation, illness or
injury, and other personal activities. All regular non-contractual (unless otherwise specified in
contract) full-time and part-time employees are eligible to receive flex leave. Flex leave is
accrued on a per pay period basis and may be used as earned. The official flex leave accrual
schedule including balances will be maintained in payroll. Full-time benefit earning employees
shall accrue leave as listed below in the flex leave accrual schedule.
9.2 Flex Leave Accrual – Regular Full-time Employees Effective October 1, 2001
Years of Service Days Off (8 hour days) Hours Earned Each Year
Start through 4 24 192
5 through 10 29 232
11 30 240
12 31 248
13 32 256
14 33 264
15 34 272
Employees who leave City employment and who return shall be given credit for their prior years
of service with the City in determining their accrual rate. In the best interest of the City, leave in
excess of the established amount specified in the flex leave accrual schedule may be granted by
the City Manager.
9.3 Flex Leave–Regular Part-time Employees
Regular part-time employees (who work 20 hours a week or more) earn flex leave on a pro-rated
basis, according to their budgeted full time equivalent (FTE) status. Flex leave is also pro-rated
based on FTE status for regular part-time employees when determining flex leave cap, cash out,
severance and other forms of leave.
9.4 Flex Leave Cap
Employees may carry over two times their annual flex leave accrual plus 20 days as of the first
pay day in September of each year. Flex leave above the cap will be forfeited. The following
chart depicts this maximum accumulation (cap), effective October 1, 2001.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 40
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 9
Revised 4/1/11
16
9.5 Annual Transfer of Accumulated Flex Leave
Employees are required to transfer the value of 40 hours of accumulated flex leave into a Health
Care Savings Plan (HCSP) in accordance with plan design and IRS regulations. In order to be
eligible to transfer time, you must have, at a minimum, an accumulated flex leave balance of two
times the annual accrual plus 20 days (flex leave cap as defined in Section 9.4) as of the first
payroll in September. Employees who meet this eligibility requirement will be required to
transfer 40 hours of flex leave based on the Employee’s current rate of pay into the HCSP. Any
flex leave above the cap after the transfer will be forfeited. Transfer occurs in October. Program
administration for the HCSP is determined by the City Manager. (Resolution 08-159).
9.6 Flex Leave – Severance
At the time of separation from the City, if the employee leaves in good standing along with a
minimum of a two week written notice, the employee will receive 100% of their flex leave
balance, not to exceed flex leave cap listed above with the addition of five 8 hour days (40 hours
maximum) in addition to the cap (see section 9.4 & 9.5). In no instance shall severance exceed
this hourly total amount. Severance pay is based on your current rate of pay on the date of
separation of employment from the City. Refer to 12.6 for Health Care Savings Plan.
9.7 Flex Leave – Frozen Sick Leave Balance
Non-exempt employees, who were employed with the City on February 1, 1997 and were
allowed to convert sick leave to frozen sick leave balance up to 120 days of sick leave, shall be
paid for such frozen sick balance at the time of separation with the City. The rate of pay for sick
leave frozen balance when paid as severance shall be based on an employee’s wage rate at the
time of the separation and shall be paid in an amount equal to (50%) of the frozen sick leave
balance. Also see 10.4 for use of frozen leave. Also see 12.6 for Health Care Savings Plan.
9.8 Flex Leave – New/Probationary Employees
New full time employees hired will begin with a flex leave accumulation of three 8-hour days
(24 hours) and earn flex leave according to the above schedule titled flex leave accrual for use as
needed (pro-rated for benefit earning part-time). These three days are part of the total accrual for
their first year of employment. Probationary employees are allowed to use flex leave as it is
accrued. If the probationary employee voluntarily leaves in good standing before completing the
probationary period, they are eligible to receive earned flex leave. Employees who do not
Flex Leave
Years of Service
First Pay Day in
September
Accumulation Cap
in 8 Hour Days
First Pay Day in
September
Accumulation
Cap in Hours
Start through 4 68 544
5 through 10 78 624
11 80 640
12 82 656
13 84 672
14 86 688
15 88 704
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 41
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 9
Revised 4/1/11
17
successfully complete probation are not eligible to receive earned leave benefits upon separation
unless authorized by the City Manager. (Resolution 01-078)
9.9 Flex Leave Request - Planned Absences
Employees may request to take earned flex leave by submitting a request to the department
head or supervisor as soon as practical. Approval of the request is based on work demands
within the employee’s work unit. How much advance notice and deviations from it is a matter of
departmental policy. Planned and unplanned leave greater than 15 continuous workdays requires
City Manager approval.
9.10 Flex Leave Request - Unplanned Absences
In situations when anticipating an absence from work is impossible, the employee must contact
his/her supervisor as soon as possible, preferably prior to the start of work. Provided there is a
balance in the employee’s flex leave account, unplanned absences must be approved by the
supervisor and only one workday at a time. Additional documentation or medical certification
may be required.
9.11 Transition to Flex Leave
Non-exempt employees who move from a position which had been eligible for sick and vacation
accrual into a position which has the flex leave program will convert 100% of their vacation
balance to flex leave. Additionally, up to 20 days (160 hours maximum) of their current sick
leave balance will convert to flex leave. The remainder of sick leave balance will be frozen.
This conversion to flex leave will occur upon the date of hire in the new position. Employees
shall be paid for such frozen sick balance at the time of termination with the City in accordance
with 9.7. (City Manager approved changes 9/2004)
Exempt employees use the same conversion as non-exempt above, except exempt employees
must cash out 50% of their remaining (up to 120 eight hour days) sick leave balance less the 20
day transfer upon successful completion of probation.
9.12 Paid Time Off (PTO) Program
Effective 01/01/02, exempt employees, including the City Manager, who reach the salary limit
requirements of M.S. 43A.17, Subd. 9, shall receive equivalent hours above the limit in paid
leave (PTO). Amount of paid leave (PTO) is determined by the City Council. Paid leave (PTO)
is typically accrued on a per pay period basis, although the Council may issue paid leave (PTO)
as a lump sum amount of time. Paid leave (PTO) may be used as earned, maintained in a paid
leave (PTO) bank or cashed out upon separation of employment. Paid leave (PTO) is separate
and not part of the flex leave program. (Resolution 02-127) Each July 31, all hours in the PTO
balance must transfer to a Health Care Savings Plan account established for the employee in
accordance with plan requirements. (Resolution 05-104)
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 42
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 10
Approved 9/1/01
18
Section 10: Short Term Disability (STD)
10.1 Program Eligibility
The City of St. Louis Park provides a short-term disability (STD) program as a supplement to the
flex leave program for regular full time and part time employees. In order to qualify for the STD
program, employees must participate in the flex leave program and have successfully passed the
probationary period. Employees must be actively at work on the effective date of coverage in
order to qualify. Short term disability is available only for an employee’s non-work related
disability. It may not be used to care for ill or injured family members.
Employees who are not off probation and/or are not on the flex leave program are not eligible for
STD. Hours are pro-rated for part-time benefit earning employees under this section.
10.2 Program Statement (effective October 1, 2001)
If, due to a disability, (non-work related illness or injury) the employee is absent from work for
more than 15 consecutive work days or 120 consecutive work hours (whichever is reached first),
the City will continue your salary at 66 2/3 % for non-exempt employees and 100% for exempt
employees from the 16th work day through the 130th work day (based on an eight hour work day,
pro-rated for part time) of your absence. The employee must provide documentation from a
physician, approved by the City, certifying that they cannot return to work in some capacity the
City finds acceptable. If the City determines for whatever reason that the employee is not able to
return to work, the City is not obligated to provide 130 days minus the 15 eight-hour day waiting
period of income continuation. The City Manager is responsible for administration and program
guidelines for STD. (Resolution 01-078)
Payment will be based on an eight hour workday (prorated for part time benefit earning
employees based on the regular work schedule), at the regular base rate of pay. For the purpose
of this program, holidays will be counted as a regular workday both in calculation of days absent
prior to STD eligibility and also included in the 130-day count once eligible for STD.
10.3 Disability
A disability is defined as a physician certified non-work related injury (an accidental bodily
injury) or illness (a physical or mental illness). Any injuries intentionally self-inflicted or any act
or hazard of a declared or undeclared war are excluded. The City reserves the right to require a
second opinion and/or approve the physician used for this policy and make final determination of
approval or denial of disability for this purpose. If an employee’s injury or illness is determined
to be covered under worker’s compensation, it is not eligible to be covered under this STD
program.
10.4 STD Pay
STD is paid to the employee and is reported as taxable income. During a qualified STD period,
non-exempt employees may use available time from their frozen sick leave account (or from flex
leave if they do not have frozen sick leave based on 9.7) to supplement up to 33 1/3% of their
STD pay.
STD benefit maximum is limited to a maximum of 130 eight hour work days of salary in a 12
month period (minus the 15 eight hour day waiting period). STD calculations are based on a
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 43
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 10
Approved 9/1/01
19
full-time 40 hour per week employee working five 8 hour days per week. Calculations will be
modified and pro-rated to accommodate flexible and part-time schedules.
10.5 Waiting Period
STD benefits will begin after 15 workdays or 120 consecutive work hours (whichever is reached
first), of continuous disability as certified by the physician and approved by the City. A partial
absence on the first day is counted toward the 15 days. An employee must use any accumulated
flex leave or comp time during this 15 workday waiting period. If an employee returns to work
after receiving STD payments, and is disabled due to the same non-work related injury or illness
(within 365 days of the start of the waiting period of the previous same injury), the employee
will not have a second waiting period.
10.6 Benefits Status
An employee will not accrue leave benefits while receiving STD payments, unless the employee
supplements their STD with paid leave (non-exempt employees only). If an employee
supplements pay by 33 1/3% of the FTE status, then flex leave will accrue and be pro-rated
based on the amount of paid leave used. An employee cannot receive more than the employee’s
normal take home pay because of any STD pay. The City’s contribution to medical insurance
will continue while on STD. Holidays will be paid but are also included in the maximum count
of STD days used.
10.7 How to Request STD
STD claims must be filed immediately after a disabling injury or illness occurs. The employee
must contact their supervisor and Human Resources to initiate the claims process. The employee
must provide a physician’s medical certificate along with the claim and written request for STD.
The request must include the following information: name, job title, department, date of illness
or injury, date of start of total disability, and date planned to return to work. The physician’s
certification must include: physicians name, phone number and clinic/hospital, description of
illness/injury, date of appointments, and expected return to work.
10.8 Return to Work
Employees must notify their supervisor prior to the end of the approved STD period and
coordinate their return to work. Employees who find they are unable to return to work must
report this information to their supervisor and Human Resources immediately.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 44
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 11
Revised 12/18/14
20
Section 11: Leave
11.1 Leave of Absence
Upon written request, an employee may be granted a leave of absence. Leave of absence
requires the advance approval of the employee’s department head, with the final determination to
be at the discretion of the City Manager. A leave of absence will normally not exceed 90
calendar days. The leave of absence may be extended beyond 90 calendar days if it is for good
and sufficient reasons. In no case will a leave of absence exceed one year (365 calendar days),
except when the employee is detailed for military service.
Unless otherwise specified, any leave of absence from employment requires the employee to use
flex, vacation or comp time. Use of sick leave requires medical certification. An employee may
leave up to a maximum balance of 80 hours (pro-rated for part-time) of accrued leave or comp
time to remain on record prior to taking an unpaid leave unless otherwise stated in the policy.
Various types of leave may run consecutively (not stacked).
11.2 Limitation of Grants of Leave Without Compensation
Leave accruals (flex, sick or vacation) will not accumulate during any unpaid leave of absence;
accrued amounts of leave not used may remain on the record at the inception of the leave of
absence and shall continue upon the return of the employee. For leaves without compensation of
30 calendar days or less, the City will continue its normal premium contribution through the end
of such month or 30 calendar days whichever occurs first, or as policy allows.
11.3 Leave Extension Request
Failure on the part of the employee to request and receive authorization for an extension of leave
from their supervisor within three working days of expiration of initial leave is considered as
resignation.
11.4 Reinstatement From Leave of Absence
An employee returning from leave must notify the employee’s supervisor at least two weeks
prior to the anticipated return date. An employee may be returned to employment at any time
prior to the expiration of the leave by the action of the City Manager.
11.5 Bone Marrow and Organ Donation Leave
Employees are eligible for a maximum of 40 hours of paid leave to undergo a medical procedure
to donate bone marrow, an organ, or partial organ to another person. Time off is not charged
against flex, vacation, sick or comp-time leave. Employees must provide a medical verification
by a physician as to the purpose and length of each leave requested. If it is determined that the
employee does not qualify as a donor, paid leave granted prior to the medical determination is
not forfeited.
11.6 Election Days
Employees entitled to vote in state and federal elections may take time off to vote without
penalty of deduction from salary or wages on account of such absence. Employees may be
absent from work for the time necessary to appear at the employee’s polling place, cast a ballot,
and return to work on the date of the election. A request for time off to vote must be made prior
to election day and the supervisor may specify the time when an employee may be absent for
voting purposes.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 45
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 11
Revised 12/18/14
21
11.7 Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
A family and/or medical leave of absence is a leave of absence available to eligible employees
for up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave in any 12 month period. FMLA is governed by federal law
and regulations. Leave may be taken for the following reasons:
The birth of the employee’s child.
The placement of a child with the employee for adoption or foster care.
When the employee is needed to care for a child, spouse, or parent who has a serious heath
condition.
When the employee is unable to perform the function of his or her position because of a
serious health condition.
In accordance with the National Defense Authorization Act of 2008 & 2010, employers must
grant eligible employees twelve weeks of FMLA leave for qualifying exigencies if the
employee’s spouse, son, daughter, or parent is a member of the regular or reserve
components of the Armed Forces. Eligible employees who are a spouse, son, daughter,
parent, or next of kin to a covered servicemember may take up to 26 weeks of FMLA leave
to care for the covered servicemember suffering from an eligible serious injury or illness.
See Human Resources for additional details on these types of leave.
Employees Eligible for Family or Medical Leaves of Absences (FMLA)
To be eligible for FMLA, you must have been employed by the City for at least 12 months and
have worked at least 1,250 hours during the 12 month period immediately preceding your leave.
Amount of FMLA
If employees meet the criteria for FMLA, except in the case of leave to care for a covered
servicemember, they are entitled to up to 12 weeks of leave per rolling 12 month period based on
the 12 months prior to the commencement of the leave. The 12 weeks will be reduced by any
time spent on other FMLA leave so that the total leave does not exceed 12 weeks during any 12-
month period. In the case of a leave to care for a covered servicemember, the total amount of
leave is up to 26 weeks.
Notice and Procedures for Requesting FMLA
If the employee knows in advance that they will be taking a family or medical leave because of
the birth, placement, or adoption of a child in the home, or because of a planned medical
treatment, the employee must notify your supervisor and Human Resources at least 30 days in
advance. If circumstances require that the leave begin in less than 30 days, the employee must
notify their supervisor and Human Resources as soon as practicable. The City has the right to
approve requests for FMLA, deny and/or place an employee on family medical leave without a
request from the employee.
Commencement of FMLA
An employee is eligible for a medical leave when he or she is unable to work at all or is unable
to perform the essential functions of the employee’s position; for family and child care leaves,
circumstances may require that the leave begin before the actual of the birth of a child. Leave
can begin before the actual placement or adoption of a child if absence from work is required for
foster care or adoption to proceed. Entitlement to leave for birth, adoption or placement of a
foster child expires 12 months after the birth, adoption or placement. The leave must be
concluded within this one year period.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 46
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 11
Revised 12/18/14
22
Employees may qualify for other leave programs in addition to FMLA (i.e. worker’s
compensation, parental leave) which will run concurrently with FMLA leave.
Certification Required for FMLA
In the case of medical leaves, the City requires medical certification to be provided to Human
Resources in a timely manner. The certification will include:
The date of onset, duration, and appropriate medical facts concerning the condition.
If the employee is seeking medical leave for their own health condition, the certification must
also state that they are unable to perform the function(s) of their position.
If the employee is seeking medical leave to care for a family member, the certification must
also state they are needed to care for the family member and an estimate of the amount of
time needed.
Additional requirements apply if an employee seeks leave on an intermittent or part-time basis.
The employee must discuss any intermittent leave request with their supervisor.
In its discretion, the City may require a second medical opinion and periodic re-certification of
the medical condition. This will be at the City’s expense. If the medical opinion sought by the
City differs from the employee’s certification from the physician, the City may at its own
expense, require the opinion of a third health care provider chosen by the employee and the City.
The third opinion will be binding.
Additional Conditions of FMLA
If medically necessary for the employee’s serious health condition or that of their spouse, child
or parent, leave may be taken on an intermittent or reduced leave schedule. If leave is requested
on this basis, however, the employee may be required to transfer temporarily to an alternative
position with equivalent pay and benefits which better accommodates recurring periods of
absence or a part-time schedule.
Health Care Coverage
While you are on family or medical leave, the City will pay its share of the premiums for health
care coverage it provides. It is the employee’s responsibility to pay their share of the premium.
Use of Paid Leave
During family and medical leave, employees must use all sick leave, flex leave, vacation leave
and comp time up to a balance of 80 hours (pro-rated for part-time) that will be allowed to
remain on record prior to taking an unpaid leave unless otherwise stated in policy.
Reinstatement
In most cases, the employee will be returned to the former position at the conclusion of FMLA
leave. The employee may be required to provide the supervisor with a fitness-for-duty certificate
before returning to work.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 47
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 11
Revised 12/18/14
23
11.8 Funeral Leave
Effective October 1, 2001, funeral leave will be eliminated. Non-union benefit earning
employees who worked for the City on October 1, 2001, will be issued a one time credit of 3
work days of funeral leave to be placed in a funeral leave bank. (No credit will be given to hires
after 10/1/01). This funeral leave bank may be granted on account of a death in the immediate
family of the employee. Once the funeral leave bank is used, it will not be replaced. If not used,
it will not be converted to pay or any other type of leave. (Resolution 01-078)
11.9 Jury Duty
Any regular or probationary employee who is required to serve as a juror or who is under
subpoena as a witness in court on matters as a representative for City, will be granted leave with
pay while serving in such capacity. The employee must provide a copy of compensation or any
fees received for such service, with the exception of mileage or parking, to the City. Non benefit
earning employees will be given leave without pay and may retain all fees received. When
employees are excused from jury duty or serving as a witness duty during their regular working
hours, they are expected to return to work if practicable.
11.10 Military Leave
Employees are entitled to a leave of absence without loss of pay, seniority status, annual leave or
other benefits when engaged in training activities ordered or authorized by the proper authority
pursuant to law, whether for state or federal purposes. Military leave without loss of pay or
status will not exceed 15 workdays in any calendar year. Compensation is in addition to military
pay (MN Atty. Gen. opinion).
The City does not provide compensation to those employees on active duty in the armed forces
unless authorized by proper authority pursuant to law. For those employees on active duty, the
City will continue to contribute to the cost of the employee’s health insurance at the same level
of City contribution as before the employee goes on leave. If there are changes to the City’s
contribution levels and/or premium rates while the employee is on leave, those changes will take
place as if the employee were still on the job. The employee will be required to continue
payment of the employee portion of the health care and/or other insurance coverage they choose
to continue.
Effective September 11, 2001, the employee will accrue vacation, sick, or flex leave with pay as
provided in any applicable policy or collective bargaining agreement from the time he or she
enters active military service until the date of reinstatement (unless otherwise determined by the
City Manager). The City will distribute accrued vacation or flex leave in one of the following
options, whichever results in more hours paid to the employee in cash: 1) 50% of the hours
accrued during the leave, or 2) any hours over the cap as specified in the personnel manual or
labor agreement. The accrued leave will be paid to the employee minus required payroll
deductions. The remaining accrued hours will be placed in the employee’s leave balance, subject
to future caps and to be used in accordance with policy or contract. Sick leave accrued will be
placed in the sick leave balance and must be used in accordance with policy. (Resolution No. 05-
098).
Upon return from a military leave of absence, a regular employee shall be reinstated to the
employee’s former position or to a position of like status and pay, provided that the employee is
competent to perform all duties of the position to which assigned. If the position which the
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 48
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 11
Revised 12/18/14
24
employee formerly held no longer exists, the employee shall be reinstated to a position of like
status and pay, provided that it is practical to do so and the employee is competent to perform all
duties of the position to which assigned.
11.11 Parental Leave for School Conferences
Regular full-time and part-time employees may take up to a total of 16 hours of unpaid leave
annually to attend their child’s school-related activities provided the activities cannot be
scheduled during non-work hours. Parental school leave also includes childcare services as
defined in Minnesota statutes. A request for parental leave for school related activities should be
made in writing to the supervisor prior to the day of leave requested.
11.12 Parenting Leave
It is the policy of the City of St. Louis Park to provide paid and unpaid parental leave benefits to
employees due to the birth of an employee’s child or the placement within an employee’s home
of an adopted child. To be eligible for parental leave, an employee must have been employed by
the City, working at least 20 hours per week for a minimum of one continuous year (12 months).
Paid parental leave will be provided to regular benefit-earning employees (regardless of gender)
who meet eligibility requirements as described above, who become biological or adoptive
parents in conjunction with childbirth or adoptions occurring on or after January 1, 2015.
Surrogate mothers and sperm or egg donors are excluded from coverage. The paid parental leave
benefit is 100% of the employee’s regular base wage (does not include overtime, supplemental
pay, and/or other additional pay), for regularly scheduled work hours for up to 21 calendar days
and must begin on the date of the birth or placement for adoption. Multiple births or adoptions
(i.e., twins, triplets), medical conditions, and/or other circumstances will not increase length of
paid leave granted. For the purpose of this benefit, holidays will be counted as a regular
scheduled work day and will be included in the 21 calendar day count. Employer benefit
contribution and leave accrual continue during paid parenting leave. For birthing parents, paid
parental leave will run concurrently with short term disability coverage (Section 10) and FMLA.
(Resolution 14-186)
Unpaid parental leave will also be provided to eligible employees in accordance with the MN
Parental Leave Act. Unpaid parental leave must be taken within 12 months of the birth or
adoption and eligible employees can choose when the leave will begin. The maximum amount
of parental leave (including both paid and unpaid leave) is twelve weeks.
Eligible employees anticipating paid or unpaid parenting leave must submit a written request to
Human Resources before the anticipated birth or adoption of the child whenever possible.
Parental leave (both paid and unpaid) and FMLA will run concurrently. In no event will the
combination of FMLA and parental leave exceed twelve weeks duration. The employee shall be
returned to the position that the employee vacated at the commencement of leave or to a position
of like status and pay.
For leaves requiring more than twelve weeks for pregnancy, delivery and postpartum
recuperation, an additional leave of absence without pay may be granted in accordance with
Section 11.1 on the basis that such action is taken in the best interest of the City. (Resolution 14-
186)
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 49
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 12
Revised 12/20/04
25
Section 12: Separation from Employment
12.1 Termination
An employee wishing to leave the City service in good standing shall file with the employee’s
supervisor, at least 14 calendar days before termination of employment, a written letter of
resignation stating the effective date of the resignation.
The employee’s separation date, upon resignation or retirement, shall be the employee’s last
actual working day unless the City Manager determines it appropriate to waive this requirement.
Failure to comply with this procedure may be considered cause for denying such employee
future employment with the City as well as loss of severance benefits. The City Manager may
waive the written notice and timeframe only when it is deemed to be in the best interest of the
City.
An employee who is absent from work for a period of three working days or more without
notifying their immediate supervisor of the reasons for the absence and receiving permission to
remain away from work is deemed to have voluntarily resigned. (Resolution 01-078)
12.2 Use of Leave Upon Termination
Employees who give a two week notice (14 calendar days) of resignation shall not be permitted
to use leave on the dates immediately preceding the employee’ termination or retirement date,
except in the case of disability or due to special circumstances approved by the City Manager. A
holiday cannot be used or paid as the last date of employment. Employees who give a three
week notice of resignation may use up to five days leave during their remaining time of
employment, or four week notice may use up to 10 days leave during their remaining time of
employment. Use of additional leave may be granted only for special circumstances by the City
Manager.
12.3 Reduction in Force
The City Manager may lay off any employee whenever such action is made necessary by reason
of shortage of work or funds, the abolition of a position, or because of changes in organization.
However, a regular employee may not be laid off while there are temporary or probationary
employees serving in the same position for which the regular employee is qualified, eligible and
available. In the case of a reduction in personnel, four weeks’ notice of reduction will be
provided, all of which may be provided as paid leave. (Resolution 01-078)
12.4 Continuation of Benefits Upon Separation - COBRA
Federal law provides that employees who are actively enrolled in the health plan and who have
separated from City service may continue on the City’s group health, dental coverage plan and
life insurance for up to 18 months. Pursuant to applicable state or federal law requirements,
changes in family status, eligibility for Medicare or death of a spouse may warrant continuing
coverage for up to 36 months. Continuing coverage premiums must be paid in full by the
separated employee, their spouse or dependents or coverage will lapse. See Human Resources
for plan details.
12.5 Benefits for City Retirees
Minnesota law provides continuation of health and dental to certain former employees who are
receiving an annuity or met the age and service requirements from PERA. The employee/former
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Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 50
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 12
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employee is responsible for paying the entire premium. Failure to pay premium will result in
termination of coverage. See Human Resources for plan details.
12.6 Health Care Savings Plan (effective December 20, 2004)
The City of St. Louis Park provides a means for eligible employees to participate in a program to
help defray some of the costs of post employment health related expenses. This includes the
ability to pay health insurance premiums using tax free dollars. (Resolution 04-154)
This program is required for all benefit earning, non-represented employees in the following
employee groups
Hourly Employees
Salaried Employees
Department heads
City Manager
Notice of separation of employment must be given in accordance with Section 12.1. Employees
must leave in good standing.
Employees who qualify to receive severance pay upon separation from the City as defined by
Section 9.6 of the Personnel Manual must participate in a Health Care Savings Plan based on the
table below:
HCSP Participation Schedule
Hours In Flex Leave Account Participation Level
(rounded to nearest whole number)
660+ 100% to HCSP
620 – 659 0% to HCSP
580 – 619 First 80 hours paid, remainder to HCSP
540 – 579 0% to HCSP
500 – 539 First 80 hours paid, remainder to HCSP
460 – 499 0% to HCSP
420 – 459 First 80 hours paid, remainder to HCSP
380 – 419 0% to HCSP
340 – 379 First 80 hours paid, remainder to HCSP
300 – 339 0% to HCSP
260 – 299 First 80 hours paid, remainder to HCSP
220 - 259 0% to HCSP
180 – 219 First 80 hours paid, remainder to HCSP
179 and Under 0% to HCSP
Notice of Separation as it Relates to Level of Flex Leave and the HCSP
The level of flex leave balance is determined by the date the written letter of resignation of
employment is received by the employee’s department head or the City Manager. The official
leave balance is maintained in Payroll. The written letter of resignation must include the last day
of employment with the City. The date of resignation of employment (last day of work) is not
the factor used to determine the flex leave balance.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 51
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 12
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Flex Leave Balance
The official leave accrual balance is maintained in Payroll. Flex leave balance cannot exceed
maximum levels as stated in the Personnel Manual.
Flex Leave Accruals
Flex leave continues to accrue in accordance with policy from the date the letter of resignation is
received by the City to the last day of employment. Severance pay and/or payment into a HCSP
is based on the employee’s current rate of pay and flex leave balance on the date of separation of
employment from the City.
No Opt-out
This program is mandatory. Employees are not permitted to opt-out of the program or alter
approved plan design. This is an irrevocable election.
HCSP Contributions
When participation level is not 0% to HCSP, each employee will have a HCSP account
established.
Flex hours will be contributed based on the HCSP participation schedule.
Flex balances placed in the account will be adjusted based on actual accrued or used up to the
final day of employment.
100% of accrued compensatory time at the date of separation up to a maximum of 40 hours
(minus required payroll deductions).
Accrued frozen sick leave balance as defined in 9.7 as severance will be place in a HCSP.
In no instance shall any accruals or severance exceed the maximum levels in the personnel
policy.
HCSP Program Administration
This program is pursuant to plan requirements and IRS regulations. Use of HCSP is governed by
plan documents and IRS regulations, limited to payment for qualified medical expenses.
Employees are responsible for plan administration fees, with no cost to the City. The type of
HCSP used by the City will be determined by the City Manager. The City’s responsibility will
be to process the initial employee enrollment in the plan and to forward the appropriate
employee contributions. Employees are responsible for filing for reimbursement directly
through the HCSP administrator. The City reserves the right to modify its policy to comply with
any other regulations regarding the plan and to add contribution requirements.
Authorization
The City Manager is the final authority making policy decisions regarding administration of this
program. Such decisions must be made within constraints of IRS regulations and plan
documents and in the best interest of the City. The decision of the City Manager is final.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 52
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 13
Approved 9/1/01
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Section 13: Discipline and Grievance
13.1 Discipline
City employees will be subject to disciplinary action for failing to fulfill their duties and
responsibilities, including observance of work rules. It is the policy of the City to administer
discipline without discrimination. Discipline action may include oral warning, oral reprimand,
written reprimand, demotion, transfer, suspension or termination. Disciplinary action may
include suspension or dismissal subject to state law on veteran’s preference, existing collective
bargaining agreements and state and federal laws. The dismissal of an employee is considered a
separation not in good standing.
13.2 Grievance Procedure
It is the policy of the City, insofar as possible, to prevent the occurrence of work related
problems and to deal with those which occur.
Employees shall bring a complaint and/or concern to the attention of their supervisor in a
timely manner. The supervisor shall then discuss all relevant circumstances with the
employee, investigate the causes of the complaint/concern, and attempt to resolve the
issue.
If the complaint/concern is not dealt with in a satisfactory manner at the supervisor level,
it may be brought to the attention of the department head.
If not satisfactorily resolved at the department head level, the employee may present the
complaint/concern in writing to the City Manager.
The decision of the City Manager is final.
The City assures that there will be no retaliation as a result of bringing a claim forth or
cooperating in an investigation. If the complaint/concern is related to sexual harassment, the
procedures set forth in the sexual harassment policy are to be followed (Section 16.6).
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 53
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 14
Revised 12/17/13
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Section 14: Employee Development
14.1 Performance Reports
It is the City’s goal that supervisors submit reports of an employee’s individual performance,
reviewing goals and setting new goals. Reviews, goal setting and reports shall be discussed with
the employee before being submitted to Human Resources. The employee should also receive a
copy of the report. Performance reports shall be retained in the employee’s personnel file.
14.2 In-service Training
The City Manager may provide appropriate in-service training, as needed, for employees for the
purpose of improving the quality of services rendered to the City and to assist employees to
prepare themselves for advancement in City service. The City Manager will provide assistance
to department heads in developing and conducting training to meet the specific needs of City
departments.
14.3 Conferences and Workshops
Conferences and workshops are to be job related and used to develop the information and skills
of City staff. Examples of training programs are workshops, University of Minnesota extension
courses, and sessions held at specialized service areas. These sessions may be attended upon
approval of the supervisor. Such conferences must be within budget guidelines and fit within
goals and objectives set out for the City.
14.4 Tuition Reimbursement
The City encourages employees to enroll in job related educational programs and may provide
support through tuition reimbursement. Regular full and part-time employees and paid-on-call
firefighters who have successfully completed probation may be eligible for tuition
reimbursement for courses taken for credit through accredited educational institutions.
Employees may be eligible for reimbursement of 80% up to $3,500 maximum per calendar year
for the cost of tuition, required books and fees required for class, such as lab fees. If the
employee is receiving another source of funding, such as a grant or scholarship, they shall not be
eligible for tuition reimbursement on the amount funded by other sources. The City Manager
makes all final decisions regarding the tuition reimbursement program and approval or denial of
requests. (Resolution 01-078)
In order for a class to qualify for reimbursement, the following conditions must be met:
The class must be part of an approved degree/certificate program.
The class must be taken from accredited institutions of higher learning or vocational-
technical schools.
The class must be approved by the supervisor/department head and Human Resources prior
to enrolling.
The employee must receive a C or equivalent in order to receive reimbursement.
After the class has been completed, the employee must provide a copy of the grade and the
original receipt for tuition. All requests for reimbursement must be submitted within 1 year of
date of last class to be eligible for payment. Forms are available in Human Resources.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 54
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 14
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14.5 Educational Incentive Reimbursement Program for Community Service Cadets
The purpose of the educational incentive program for community service cadets in the Police
department is to provide educational financial assistance to those who are enrolled in a post-
secondary institution to become eligible for POST licensing. This program allows the Police
department the opportunity to observe, encourage and recruit prospective Police Officer
candidates in a public safety work environment.
The Community Service Cadet in the Police department is a temporary, part-time position with
100% tuition reimbursement for coursework at an accredited post-secondary institution up to a
maximum of $3,500 per calendar year as approved by the Chief of Police. Cadets must attend an
accredited post-secondary institution with the intent to become eligible for POST licensure and
maintain a C average in their coursework. In the best interest of the City, and based on financial
needs, the Chief of Police may request prepayment of approved courses for Cadets. (Resolution 01-
078)
See Section 14.4 for guidelines to follow for reimbursement.
14.6 Police Trainee Program
The purpose of the police training program is to enhance the recruiting process for Police
Officers by offering employment and placing them in a training academy based on requirements
and successful performance as determined by the Chief of Police.
Individuals selected to participate and successfully perform in the Police Trainee program will
receive wages and benefits in accordance with provisions for a regular employee of the City.
Employees who successfully participate in the Police Training Program may be eligible for full
tuition, books required supplies and $500 for uniforms paid by the City as approved by the City
Manager. (Resolution 02-056)
.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 55
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 15
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Section 15: Expense Reimbursement
15.1 Mileage Reimbursement
The City reimburses mileage amounts to employees who are required to drive their vehicle as a
requirement of the employment and position at a mileage rate consistent with IRS regulations.
(Resolution 01-078) Mileage reimbursement requests must be in writing and approved by the
department head or supervisor. Use of personal vehicle for work purposes must be pre-approved
by the department head. Reimbursement requests must be submitted in a timely manner and be
accompanied by supporting documentation as required by Accounting. Reimbursement requests
should be made during the fiscal year in which the travel occurred and no later than 30 days after
the end of the fiscal year. Mileage requests after this timeframe will not be approved.
15.2 Expense Reimbursement
Reimbursements of travel expenses are intended to refund actual costs incurred by City
employees and elected officials while traveling as authorized representatives of the City of St.
Louis Park. In order to qualify for travel reimbursement, trips to a destination exceeding 100
miles from St. Louis Park must have the prior approval of the department head or supervisor.
Requests for travel advances intended to defray costs incurred while on a trip and prior to
submission of an expense report shall be approved by the department head or supervisor and
submitted at least 10 calendar days in advance of the trip to Accounting for payment. Travel
advances shall be limited to 90% of the estimated expenses for lodging, meals, and other related
travel expenses. Costs of transportation and registration shall be advanced in full.
Whenever possible, out-of-state travel requests by elected officials for City business will be
approved in advance by the City Council at an open meeting. In evaluating the request, Council
will determine if travel outside the state is appropriate and if the request fits within the City’s
approved budget. (Resolution 06-007)
A properly verified, itemized expense claim shall be submitted to the department head for
approval within 30 calendar days following the date of return from an authorized trip. Expense
claims shall be accompanied by receipts for:
Transportation costs to and from the destination via coach, tourist, or economy class
transportation.
Lodging costs not to exceed a reasonable single-occupancy rate.
Conference or meeting registration fees.
Any unusual items for which advance approval has been obtained from the department head.
Receipt for meals or statement of cost required.
The mode of transportation must be approved by the department head prior to any authorized
trip. Personal automobile use for authorized trips will be reimbursed at a rate consistent with
IRS regulations, or an amount equal to air travel tourist class, whichever is lesser.
Employees and officials of the City shall be reimbursed for individual or actual meal cost unless
meal cost is part of a function. The City will not provide reimbursement for alcohol-type
beverages, or personal phone calls. (Resolution 01-078)
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 56
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 15
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15.3 City Vehicles
Certain employees of the City are required to drive a City vehicle to their home and keep it there
while off duty in order to respond to emergency situations which may include fire and police
protection, civil defense, and restoring City services. It may also be necessary to keep a City
vehicle at home for security purposes or business purposes. Such use is assigned and approved
by the City Manager and are typically limited to Deputy or Assistant Chief, Police Chief, and
Fire Chief.
15.4 Car Allowance
In lieu of mileage reimbursement, the City will provide a car allowance as follows:
$300 per month for Department Directors
$250 per month for Public Works Superintendent, Utility Superintendent, and Parks
Superintendent
(Car allowance is not eligible to positions assigned take home cars.)
The City Manager has the discretion of eliminating any car allowance given by providing the
individual with a 30 calendar day written notice. (Resolution 13-163)
15.5 Civic Club Membership
The City encourages department heads to become more involved in local civic organizations.
Support, participation and involvement in our civic organizations are important to the City of St.
Louis Park. Membership dues for civic organizations will be paid for department heads at the
discretion of the City Manager. Membership is limited to one civic organization per individual
per calendar year. Civic organizations must be City of St. Louis Park based and include: Rotary,
Kiwanis, Lions, Optimists and other similar service based organizations as determined by the
City Manager. (Resolution 01-078)
15.6 Uniforms & Clothing Allowance
Uniforms (including shirts or jackets) are provided to some City employees. Uniforms should
clearly be marked with City name and or logo and, if provided by the City, be worn while at
work unless an exception has been made by the department head. The City Manager has the
discretion of authorizing a department head to issue uniforms based on budget, needs of the
department and if the issuance of such uniform is in the best interest of the City.
The City Manager may approve the issuance of identifiable shirts, jackets etc. with the City logo
or similar identification for staff.
Certain positions, due to responsibilities and nature of the position, may receive a clothing
allowance. Issuance of clothing allowance must be approved by City Council. (Resolution 01-078)
15.7 Public Purpose Expenditure
Every City of St. Louis Park expenditure must be valid based upon the public purpose for which
it is purchased and the specific or implied authority for the expenditure found in the City Charter
or State Law. Section 1.02 of the City Charter provides that the City “Shall have and exercise all
powers, functions, rights and privileges exercised by, or which are incidental to or inherent in,
municipal corporations and are not denied to it by the constitution or general laws of the State of
Minnesota.” Minnesota Statutes § 412.111 provides that the City Council may fix the
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Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 57
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 15
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compensation of all officers and employees. The City Council has determined that the
expenditures below are for a public purpose authorized by law or charter. (Resolution 05-087)
Meetings: Food/Meals
The City Council recognizes that situations in which City business needs to be discussed can and
do occur during meal hours (i.e. luncheon meetings). In addition, there are public and employee
meetings and events in which reasonable refreshments may add to the success of the meeting
and/or event or create a more productive work force. Meals are allowed at training or meetings
only when they are part of a meeting or training involving official City business and when it is
the only practical time to meet. The following items are deemed to meet the Council definition
of public purpose expenditures in regards to food and meals:
Meals and refreshments are allowed at City/employee meetings and events that have a
purpose of discussing City issues, or are a part of employee training. These meetings would
normally have a pre-planned agenda. This does not include routine staff meetings.
Meals and refreshments are allowed when they are part of a breakfast/lunch/dinner meeting
for official City business when it is the only practical time to meet. Usually these meals
involve meeting with Council members, committee/commission members, or local
business/service organizations.
Meals and refreshments are allowed during official meetings of the City Council, Council
committees, advisory boards/commissions, and taskforces.
Expense reimbursement for travel expenses for employees is outlined in the personnel policy,
as approved by Council Resolution 01-078.
Refreshments are allowed at Welcome Break, open to staff several times per year, to allow
employees time to network and meet new staff members.
CITE (the Committee to Inform and Train Employees) is recognized as the employee
committee, which is responsible for organizing and sponsoring various City employee
training and networking activities. CITE expenditures are for food, refreshments and various
expenses which encourage employees to work together to serve the City. CITE must obtain
pre-approval from Human Resources to expend up to $1,500 per calendar year for planned
employee activities. CITE funds must be approved and be part of the Human Resources
budget.
Meals and refreshments are allowed at the annual City Volunteer event and annual
seasonal/temporary recognition events.
The City will not purchase or reimburse any employee, Council member or agent for the
purchase of intoxicating liquor or malt beverages.
Membership and Dues
The City Council has determined that the City will fund memberships and dues for the City,
Council members and its employees in professional organizations and City social and
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 58
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community organizations when the purpose is to promote, advertise, improve, or develop the
City’s resources and advantages and not personal interest or gain.
Membership in the Local Chamber of Commerce
The Mission of the TwinWest Chamber of Commerce is, in part, to improve the business
environment and build a better community. Toward that end, the St. Louis Park Business
Council was formed as a forum for local businesses and government to work together to ensure
that business opportunities in St. Louis Park are diverse and progressive, and that laws, rules and
procedures enacted by local government are conducive to business operations in the City.
The City of St. Louis Park will maintain membership in the TwinWest Chamber of Commerce
and will participate as an equal partner in the St. Louis Park Business Council as a means of
promoting, advertising, improving, and developing the economic resources of the City.
Employee Service Recognition Program
The City of St. Louis Park will recognize the longevity of its employees by presenting awards for
years of service. The Employee Service Recognition Program will recognize paid-on-call
firefighters and all benefit earning regular and part-time employees who work 20 or more hours a
week, year round for the City of St. Louis Park. (Resolution 14-128)
Awards will be presented to employees on or near the date of their employment anniversary (in
five year increments) by the department head and/or supervisor.
In recognition of their years of service to the City, effective July 1, 2005, employees will receive
a gift certificate to an establishment of their choice in the amount of $10 for each year of service,
in five year increments. For example, an employee celebrating a 15th anniversary with the City
would get a gift certificate in the amount of $150 to the establishment of his or her choice. If
requested, employees may instead choose to purchase a memento (clock, watch, pen, etc) that
costs approximately what their gift certificate would have been, and the City will pay to have the
memento engraved with the employee’s name, title, length of service, date, and City name.
Departing Employee Recognition Program
The City of St. Louis Park will recognize employees when they retire or depart from the City in
good standing by presenting awards based on their years of service. The Employee Retirement
Recognition Program will recognize paid-on-call firefighters and all benefit earning regular and
part-time employees who work 20 or more hours a week, year round for the City of St. Louis
Park. (Resolution 14-128)
Upon retirement or resignation in good standing as determined by the City Manager:
5-9 years: Certificate of appreciation from Mayor and City Manager.
10-19 years: Framed certificate of appreciation from Mayor and City Manager.
20+ years: Plaque and resolution presented by the Mayor, City Manager, and City Council.
Awards for 10 or more years of service will be presented by the City Council and the City
Manager at a Council meeting following the resignation or retirement of the employee. (Resolution
14-128)
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 59
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 15
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Annual Employee Recognition Meal and Program
Annually, the City will sponsor an employee recognition meal and program at which benefit
earning employees and paid-on-call firefighters reaching 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 30+ years of
service will be recognized. Employees, paid-on-call firefighters, honored invited guests (such as
retirees, Mayor, and Council members), and others as approved by the City Manager will have
their meal provided at no cost. The program will also include recognition of department and
employee accomplishments, including the presentation of the Spirit of St. Louis Park Award.
Cost of the elements of the recognition meal and program will be included in the Human
Resources budget.
Financial Considerations
Funding for any expenditure above must be included in the appropriate department budget.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 60
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 16
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Section 16: Conduct
16.1 Conflicts of Interest
Employees are prohibited from engaging in any activity, either directly or through an immediate
family member, or other person acting on their behalf which will conflict, or may reasonably be
viewed as conflicting with the employee’s obligations and responsibilities to the City. An
employee shall not use the City’s name, information, or goodwill for personal gain.
Employees shall disclose to the employee’s immediate supervisor any personal financial interest
in the buying or selling of goods or service for the City of St. Louis Park. Purchase orders,
contracts or service agreements shall not be given to an employee of the City or to a partnership
or corporation in which an employee is a major stockholder or principal.
No employee shall enter into a relationship with a vendor where the employee’s actions are, or
reasonably be viewed as, not in the best interests of the City. If an employee becomes involved
in a possible conflict situation, the employee shall disclose the nature of the possible conflict to
the employee’s supervisor and department head. The department head will promptly notify the
individual of an approval or disapproval of the activity. If disapproved, the employee shall
remove himself or herself from the conflict situation.
In order to prevent any conflict of interest, probationary and regular employees should inform
their supervisor of other regular full-time or part-time employment.
16.2 Gifts and Gratuities
Employees shall be prohibited from requesting or soliciting any gift or gratuity from any
interested person. “Interested person” means a person or representative of a person or
association that has direct financial interest in a decision that the employer is authorized to make.
Employees shall also be prohibited from accepting an unsolicited gift or gratuity from an
employee or an interested person. The prohibition in this section does not apply if the gift or
gratuity includes the following:
A contribution as defined in Minnesota statute section 211A.01, subdivision 5.
Services to assist an official in the performance of official duties, including but not
limited to providing advice, consultation, information, and communication in
connection with legislation, and services to constituents.
Services, trinket or memento of insignificant monetary value.
A plaque or similar memento recognizing individual services in a field of specialty or
to a charitable cause.
Informational material of unexceptional value.
Food or a beverage given at a reception, meal, or meeting away from the recipient’s
place of work by an organization before whom the recipient appears to make a speech
or answer questions as part of a program.
The prohibitions in this section do not apply if the gift is given:
1) Because the recipient’s membership in a group and a majority of members are not
local officials, and an equivalent gift is given to the other group members; or
2) By an interested person who is member of the family of the recipient, unless the
gift is given on behalf of someone who is not a member of that family.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 61
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16.3 Honesty
Employees must be truthful with respect to their relationship with the City and the performance
of their job duties. The City is properly subject to scrutiny from the public and various city, state
and federal agencies. It has a public trust to uphold which is important to its successful
operation. The following types of behavior or conduct are strictly prohibited: falsification of
documents, concealment or failure to report accidents which result in property damage or injuries
including traffic or parking violations while using City vehicles, and/or theft of property
belonging to the City, residents, or employees.
16.4 Political Activity
As individuals, employees may express opinions on political issues and candidates during off-
work hours when not discharging City functions; they may otherwise participate in public affairs
but only to the extent that such endeavors do not impair the neutral and efficient performance of
official duties or create real or apparent conflicts of interest.
Employees are prohibited from directly or indirectly, during their hours of employment,
soliciting or receiving funds or at any time using their authority or official influence to compel
any officer or employee to apply for membership in or become a member of any organization, or
to pay or promise to pay any assessment, subscription, or contribution, or to take part in any
political activity. Employees are prohibited from using their position of municipal employment
to influence, interfere with, or affect an election campaign or the results of an election.
Employees may not engage in political activity while on City time or while discharging City
responsibilities; nor may they act in a manner that suggests that the City either supports a
particular candidate or political issue or endorses the personal political opinions of the municipal
employee. Any act, which tends to identify the City with any candidate or political issue, or
which otherwise tends to undermine the public perception of the City as a politically neutral and
impartial body, is prohibited.
Use of City vehicles, facilities, equipment, or other resources while engaging in political
activities in not permitted. This restriction does not apply to municipal resources available to the
public at large for use in connection with political activities, such as use of meeting rooms.
Candidacy for Office
Upon becoming a candidate for public office, an employee may request a leave of absence for
the duration of such candidacy. If the candidacy of a City employee for public office involves
the time commitments that are inconsistent with the employee’s regular municipal employment,
so that the regularly assigned duties cannot be fulfilled, the employee must request a leave of
absence. The City Manager may grant such leave of absence if it is in the interests of the City
and if the required duties of the employee can be satisfactorily reassigned. An employee shall be
considered a candidate under this section upon filing for political office.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 62
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 16
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Election or Appointment to Office
If an employee is elected or appointed to a position that is legally incompatible with municipal
employment, the employee must resign municipal employment before assuming the
responsibilities of the elected or appointed office. If an employee is elected to the legislature or
to another full-time public office, the employee shall be granted leave of absence, as provided by
law.
If an employee is elected or appointed to a part-time public office which is legally incompatible
with municipal employment, and cannot simultaneously effectively discharge the responsibilities
of employment, the employee shall either: resign municipal employment, or request leave of
absence to permit the employee to exercise the part-time public office. The City Manager may
grant such leave of absence if it is in the interest of the City, and if the required duties of the
employee can be satisfactorily reassigned.
Appointment to Boards and Commissions of the City
The City Council will not consider applications for appointment to advisory commissions from
regular full-time or part-time employees. It is the policy of the City, however, to encourage
suggestions from all employees for the improvement of City government. All employees are
urged to serve in a staff capacity to the advisory commission of their choice and the City
Manager will consider expressions of interest from employees about such service. (Resolution 01-
078)
16.5 Relationship with Co-workers
Employees are expected to treat one another with courtesy and respect. Cooperation and
teamwork are important to the successful operation and providing services of the City. The
following types of behavior or conduct are strictly prohibited:
Interfering with the work of a co-worker.
Jeopardizing the safety of others.
Fighting.
Abusing (physically or verbally harassing or unlawfully discriminating against co-workers,
managers or supervisors).
16.6 Sexual Harassment Prevention
It is the policy of the City of St. Louis Park to maintain and promote a positive employment
atmosphere free of sexual harassment, intimidation or coercion. The City will not tolerate
harassment and encourages anyone who believes he or she is a victim of harassment to come
forward and file a complaint. The City assures a fair and timely investigation of all complaints
and a resolution of the problem. The City also assures that there will be no retaliation as a result
of bringing a claim forth or cooperating in an investigation.
Sexual harassment occurs when an employee is subjected to unwelcome advances, suggestive
comments or physical contact of a sexual nature that creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive
working environment. Sexual harassment also exists if any employment decision affecting an
employee is related in any way to the employee’s participation in or rejection of conduct of a
sexual nature. The perpetrators of sexual harassment may be supervisors, co-workers, or even
non-employees such as customers, residents, vendors, or other people who come into contact
with City employees.
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Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 63
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Sexual harassment may be defined as any of the following:
1) Verbal harassment such as epithets, derogatory remarks or slurs.
2) Physical harassment such as gestures, assault, impeding or blocking movement or
physical interference with normal work or movement.
3) Visual forms of harassment such as derogatory posters, letters, poems, graffiti, cartoons,
drawings, items downloaded from the Internet, or offensive emails.
4) Requests for sexual favors or unwanted sexual advances.
Any employee, male or female, who believes they are subject to or have witnessed any form of
sexual harassment should contact their supervisor, Human Resources or the City Manager.
Supervisors have an obligation to report all forms of sexual harassment either witnessed or
brought to their attention to Human Resources. Once a claim is reported, Human Resources will
conduct a prompt and timely investigation which will be handled as discreetly as possible. If
upon completion of the investigation, an employee is found to have engaged in harassing
behavior, the individual will be disciplined appropriately. Employees who make false claims
may also be subject to disciplinary action.
16.7 Solicitation: Employee–to-Employee
While at work, City employees sometimes are asked by co-workers or members of the public to
donate money to various causes, or buy raffle tickets or products. To eliminate the awkward
situations and unnecessary pressure caused by these activities, the City has guidelines on
workplace solicitation. Solicitation means canvassing, collecting funds, pledges, selling
subscriptions or products, circulating petitions, or asking for memberships or volunteers. The
following employee–to-employee solicitations during work hours and at work stations are
allowed:
Requests for money or volunteers for any program sponsored by CITE (Committee to Inform
and Train Employees) or for any employee luncheon or City-sponsored event.
Collecting money for retirement, farewell, congratulatory or sympathy gifts for City
employees and their families.
Promotion of the St. Louis Park employee credit union.
Advertisements in the swap shop or employee newsletter. Ads are subject to routine editorial
policy of these publications and as determined by the City Manager.
All other employee–to–employee solicitation on City property for products, services or causes is
limited to two weeks in length and:
Break or meal times – no solicitation during work time.
Kitchen/dining areas of all City buildings and the Recreation Center’s administrative office.
Solicitation is limited to sign-up sheets or self-serve displays – no verbal presentations.
Solicitation at work stations or other areas of City buildings is not permitted.
Organizations or causes that do not benefit political groups.
Any solicitation by non-employees on City property during work hours and at work stations is
prohibited, with the exception of United Way, STEP (St. Louis Park Emergency Program), Food
Shelf, Toys for Tots, and Memorial Blood Bank. The City Manager may add other organizations
to this list if it is in the best interest of the City.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 64
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 16
Revised 12/18/14
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City employees, members of the public and outside organizations may not distribute on City
property quantities of printed matter that solicit causes, products or services.
Bulletin boards are for official City business. Other uses must be approved by the City Manager
or designee at least one day in advance of the posting date. Postings are limited to pre-approved
specific locations and time periods. Materials inconsistent with City policy will be removed by
the applicable supervisor.
16.8 Workplace Conduct Policy
It is the policy of the City of St. Louis Park to maintain a respectful work and public service
environment free from discrimination, harassment, violence, and other offensive or degrading
remarks or conduct. The City of St. Louis Park will not tolerate such behavior by or towards
others.
This workplace conduct policy applies to all employees of the City as well as elected officials,
paid-on-call or volunteer firefighters, City Manager, City Attorney, members of appointed
commissions and committees, and persons engaged under contract to supply expert, professional,
technical, or any other services.
Discriminatory, harassing and/or offensive behavior includes inappropriate remarks about or
conduct related to an employee’s race, color, creed, religion, national origin, disability, gender,
marital status, age, sexual orientation, or status with regard to public assistance is not allowed.
Behavior further prohibited by this policy includes requests to engage in illegal, immoral or
unethical conduct or retaliation for making a complaint under this policy.
Violent behavior includes the use of physical force, verbal abuse, harassment, intimidation or
abuse of power or authority, when the impact is to control or cause pain, fear or hurt.
16.9 Workplace and Professional Appearance
The City’s image is a direct result of our staff both individually and collectively. Quality
service, positive attitude, good customer relations and a professional appearance are key factors
in creating and maintaining a favorable image. Each employee represents the City in his or her
daily contacts with residents, consultants, and members of the business community. The City
expects employees to use good judgment in choosing their attire and in their grooming and
personal hygiene.
With the exception of employees required to wear a uniform, employees are to adhere to a
business/professional wear Monday through Thursday. Business casual wear is allowed on
Friday. Clothes should be clean, pressed and in good condition.
Supervisors make the final determination on appropriate attire based on working environment
and day to day conditions. The City Manager has the authority to determine appropriate
workplace attire and business casual day(s).
16.10 Minnesota Government Data Practices Act
All city employees must comply with the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act (MN statute
Chapter 13). Any unauthorized access to government data or use of the data for
nongovernmental purposes is strictly prohibited. Any person who willfully violates the
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 65
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 16
Revised 12/18/14
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provisions of Chapter 13 or any rules adopted under this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor (MN
statute 13.09). Willful violation of Chapter 13 by any public employee constitutes just cause for
suspension without pay or dismissal of the public employee.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 66
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 17
Revised 1/26/15
42
Section 17: Computer, Communications and Equipment
17.1 Computer, Communications, and Equipment
The purpose of this policy is to promote the availability, security and reliability of the City
owned equipment for productive employee use in providing effective and efficient service to our
citizens. One part of fulfilling that purpose is to define acceptable use, including parameters for
appropriate personal use of such equipment and information. This policy is intended to be a
general use policy. Modifications of this policy within legal limits may be applied by a
department head or supervisor to ensure specific City business needs and security requirements
are met (e.g. wherever sensitive data is captured – public safety, credit card, youth related, etc.).
Department heads and supervisors are responsible for ensuring the appropriate use of all
electronic tools and other equipment through training, supervising, coaching, and taking
disciplinary action, when necessary. Employees may be assigned City-owned equipment and are
responsible for the reasonable protection for such equipment and information against theft, loss,
inappropriate access, physical damage, viruses, and other risks. Data classified as not public
should be downloaded daily from cellular devices and deleted from those cellular devices.
17.2 Minnesota Data Practices Act and Records Retention
All electronically stored data are subject to the Minnesota Data Practices Act and the City’s
record retention schedule. Such data are also subject to review and investigation as allowed or
prescribed by law. In general, all electronically stored City data are considered public
information unless classified otherwise according to law. As such, most City data are subject to
review by the public. Electronic data are not completely secure, and thus can be altered or
illegally accessed. As a result, employees should not send any data classified as not public
(private or confidential data on individuals, or nonpublic or protected data not on individuals)
over e-mail (including attachments), the Internet, or other electronic device or medium unless the
data are secured. Employees are also responsible for managing data per the City’s records
retention schedule and MN Data Practices Act.
17.3 Security
Authorized City employees are granted access to the City’s computer network by being assigned
user names, passwords, and other security devices or methods. Employees shall not attempt to
log in as another computer user and passwords are not to be shared with anyone. In no case shall
an employee display user names, passwords, or other login credentials in open sight, or make
them available in any unsecured manner. The City’s computer network will force periodic
password changes for every user.
To enhance security of City networks, City employees shall not use their City network
passwords elsewhere (i.e., personal accounts accessed over the Internet, personal local device
security, etc.).
City employees are also responsible for ensuring secured access to portable equipment including,
but not limited to: laptops, thumb drives, CD’s, DVD’s, and mobile devices. Because of legal
requirements from computer systems interconnected with other government agencies, law
enforcement, and credit card companies, City employees must adhere to the requirements of the
LOGIS Members Security Policy, In particular, City staff must immediately report to their
supervisor and IT division any suspected computer or network security incident. This can include
loss of hardware or software, compromise of systems, or other suspected security events. City IT
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 67
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 17
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staff will notify LOGIS immediately if applicable. Compromise of the workstations include but
are not limited to viruses, spyware, etc. Other types of security events include accounts suspected
to be compromised, or social engineering such as someone demanding a password.
17.4 Software Acquisition, Support, and Use
Employees shall adhere to all software license agreements with regard to duplication and use as
directed by the software publisher, or required by law. When practicable, the following applies:
all software used on or through City computer and network systems must be installed by an
authorized staff member of the IT division, or with permission of an authorized IT staff member.
Employees who need software installed or configured should submit helpdesk requests to the IT
division. Employees are encouraged to suggest exploration of demonstration software packages,
which must be approved by the employee’s department head and authorized IT staff or designee
prior to installation. City employees must obtain prior consent and approval from their
department head and authorized IT staff prior to downloading, acquiring, or installing any
software.
17.5 Hardware Acquisition, Support, and Use
All computers and mobile electronic devices are the property of the City of St. Louis Park and
should be respected as such by all employees. All hardware shall be acquired, installed,
uninstalled, and/or reconfigured only by authorized IT division staff or designee. Employees
who need special hardware installed or configured should submit helpdesk requests to the IT
division. The IT division should be consulted to determine what hardware, including specific
models, is currently supported prior to acquisition.
17.6 Remote Connections and Special Applications
Requests to establish remote network computer connections (from non-City owned facilities) to
allow employees to work on City business, must be approved by the department head and
authorized IT staff prior to installation.
17.7 File Names and Storage Space Usage, Limitations, and Maintenance
The City reserves the right to set file naming conventions and manage the use of file storage
space on any City-owned or used equipment. Such management includes, but is not limited to,
which storage devices are used for specific purposes, limitations on the amount and type of
storage used, and maintenance of storage such as deletion or archiving of older or infrequently
accessed files, duplicated files, file versions, and files that should be managed per the City’s
records retention schedule or other electronic retention policies.
17.8 Using Electronic Equipment
City employees are encouraged to find ways to access information from other agencies via the
Internet, World Wide Web (web), e-mail, telephone system, and other City-owned electronic
equipment. This content is considered public information unless classified otherwise according
to the law. As such, this content is subject to review by the public and may also be used for
investigation purposes. The City reserves the right to monitor and record all use of the Internet,
the web, e-mail, telephone system, and all City-owned hardware and software at the time of use,
during routine post-audits, and during investigations. Employee Internet, web, e-mail, and any
other City equipment usage information may be accessible to the public as a result of the
Minnesota Data Practices Act. This may include emails, social media, files, or other
communications. Thus, such usage must be able to withstand public scrutiny without
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 68
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 17
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embarrassment to the City. Traditional rules of reasonableness, respect, courtesy, common
sense, and legal requirements apply.
17.9 Reasonable Personal Use
The City provides copiers, fax machines, telephones, cellular devices, radios, computers,
personal digital assistants, networks, printers, internet access, world wide web access, and other
City equipment primarily for business-related purposes. Limited and reasonable use of these
tools for occasional employee personal use that does not result in any additional cost or loss of
time or resources regarding their intended business purpose is permitted. Such use is permitted
before and after work and during break periods, as well as incidental and emergency use during
work. Any other extended personal use is not permitted.
17.10 Additional Regarding Use
This policy is not intended as a comprehensive or complete coverage of all expectations for
employee use of City electronic equipment and information usage. It is intended to cover the
major areas of concern to employees as they begin work with the City of St. Louis Park.
Employees are responsible for checking with IT Division staff regarding any area of electronic
device or information use not directly addressed in this general policy, and questions about what
is covered.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 69
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 18
Revised 12/17/13
45
Section 18: Health and Safety
18.1 Employee Safety
See safety manual and department manuals for policy.
18.2 Worker’s Compensation
An employee who is disabled from work by an injury or illness sustained in the performance of
the employee’s work with the City may be eligible for worker’s compensation subject to the
provisions of the law.
An employee who becomes eligible to receive worker’s compensation is required to use their
accumulated leave (flex, sick or vacation, or if eligible, IOD) to supplement the difference
between their worker’s compensation payment and the employee’s regular gross salary. The
total of the worker’s compensation check and the accrued leave compensation may not exceed
the employee’s normal base wage gross pay. The City must follow regulations and procedures
as determined by worker’s compensation regulations.
18.3 Alternative Duty
The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for the assignment of alternative duty work
on a temporary basis. An employee is eligible for an alternative duty work if they have a
“temporary medically certified condition”. For the purposes of this section, a “temporary
medically certified condition” is defined as a medical condition in which the employee is unable
to perform the essential functions of his or her normal position due to the condition. The
condition must be diagnosed and certified by a licensed physician, in writing, and written
verification must state when the employee will be able to return to their regular position, meeting
the essential requirements and functions of their position.
Policy Guidelines
Where appropriate, the department head will assign employees with a temporary medically
certified condition to alternative duty work. The City Manager, department head or supervisor
reserves the sole right to determine when alternative duty work will be assigned. This decision is
based on the department’s need for such work and the employee’s capability of performing the
work.
The City of St. Louis Park alternative duty program is for short-term disability type purposes
only and is to be used in a temporary manner. Assignment of alternative duty is analyzed on a
case by case basis. The City of St. Louis Park has no permanent alternative duty.
Procedure: Applying for Alternative Duty Work
When an employee is unable to perform their job due to a temporary medically certified
condition, the employee will notify Human Resources, in writing, as to the nature and extent of
the condition and the reason why they are unable to perform the job duties. This notice must be
accompanied by a physician’s report containing diagnosis, current treatment, and any work
restrictions related to the condition and the expected date of return to the regular position. The
City may require an independent evaluation conducted by a physician selected by the City to
verify diagnosis, current treatment, and expected length of condition and work restrictions.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 70
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 18
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In deciding whether to assign alternative duty work to the employee, the City Manager,
department head and/or supervisor will consider whether there is work in the department which
could be performed by the employee; whether there is a need for this work; and whether the
employee is capable of performing the work. The employee’s assignment to alternative duty
work will continue until the employee is able to return to the employee’s regular duties or until
the need for the alternative duty work ceases.
The determination regarding the need for and availability of alternative duty work is in the sole
discretion of the City Manager or designee. The circumstances of each employee performing
alternative duty work should be reviewed every 30 days.
18.4 Injury on Duty – Sworn Employees
Leave of absence with pay shall be granted to regular Police and Fire sworn employees should
they become incapacitated as a result of injury or occupational disease incurred through no
misconduct of their own while in actual performance of City assigned duties. This shall exclude
any injuries sustained while performing any voluntary off-duty services for which payment is
made by a contracting party other than the City.
Regular Police and Fire sworn employees injured during the performance of their duties for the
employer and thereby rendered unable to work for the employer will be paid the difference
between the employee’s regular gross pay and worker’s compensation for a period not to exceed
ninety (90) calendar days or 720 hours whichever is reached first per calendar year not charged
to the employee’s flex leave, after a five (5) working day (40 hour) initial waiting period per
injury. The five (5) working day (40 hour) initial waiting period shall be charged to the
employee’s flex leave account less worker’s compensation insurance payments. (Resolution 01-078)
18.5 Drug-free Workplace Policy
The City recognizes the value of having a drug-free workplace and in conjunction with the Drug-
free Workplace Act of l988 adopts the following policy:
The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession or use of a controlled substance
is prohibited in the workplace. For purposes of this section, the term “controlled substance” is
defined as a controlled substance which appears in schedules I through V of section 202 of the
Controlled Substances Act (2l U.S.C. 8l2). A violation of this drug-free policy will result in
disciplinary action, up to and including termination.
As a condition of employment, employees will abide by the terms and conditions of this drug-
free policy and will notify their department head of any criminal drug statute conviction for
which a violation occurs in the workplace within five (5) calendar days after such conviction.
The City will notify any applicable Federal granting agency within ten (10) calendar days after
receiving actual notice of an above conviction.
Within 30 days of receiving notice from an employee of a drug related workplace conviction, the
City may require an employee to satisfactorily participate in a drug abuse assistance program or
an appropriate rehabilitation program.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 71
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 18
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The City will establish a drug-free awareness program to inform employees about:
The dangers of drug abuse in the workplace.
The policy of maintaining a drug-free workplace
The availability of drug counseling, rehabilitation and employee assistance programs.
The penalties that may be imposed upon employees for drug abuse violations.
Each situation will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis depending upon the severity and
circumstances. The City will make a good faith effort to continue to maintain a drug-free
workplace through implementation of this policy.
18.6 Licenses
Employees required to possess a valid license for employment must notify his or her supervisor
of any suspensions, revocations and/or actions which would affect the employee’s ability to
maintain licensure and/or insurability.
18.7 Flex/Sick Leave for Fitness
This is a voluntary program which permits employees to convert accrued flex/sick leave into
cash payments for memberships in health clubs or other similar programs as a part of a the
employee’s fitness program. Approved means a club that provides facilities for aerobic activities
such as swimming, running, aerobic exercise and one that is not primarily social as determined
by the City Manager. Reimbursement level: 100% of the cost, not to exceed $150.00 per month
per employee, including family membership. Minimum leave balances are required to
participate in the program. Program criteria are established by the City Manager. (Resolution 01-
078)
The purpose of the program is to encourage employees to begin a fitness program or to maintain
their current fitness program. The City anticipates benefit from this program by reflecting lower
utilization of leave for injury and/or illness thereby reducing health care costs for employees.
Because this program is strictly voluntary, employees are advised to have a physical examination
by their physician before beginning a new program of physical activity.
Participant requirements:
Must be a benefit earning City of St. Louis Park employee.
The employee must have a minimum balance of 160 hours (240 hours for employees who are
on 24 hour shift and as approved by the Fire Chief) of flex/sick leave before qualifying for
reimbursement and maintain these minimums after reimbursement.
Eligible activities
Individual or family memberships in an approved health club. Approved means a club that
provides facilities for aerobic activities such as swimming, running, aerobic exercise and one
that is not primarily social. Reimbursed at 100% of the cost, not to exceed $150 per month.
Approved programs for employees to improve health such as classes on weight loss, smoking
cessation or stress management (e.g., Jazzercise, Learning to Eat, personal trainer, Weight
Watchers) are reimbursed up to $150.00 per month, not to exceed $900.00 for six months of
the initial start up of program and from that point, $75.00 per month.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 72
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 18
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Ineligible Activities – Examples
Recreation activities with less fitness value, such as bowling, fishing and golf.
Clothing or equipment costs or competitive activity/sport registration fees.
Lockers, if not a part of the dues.
Activities already being reimbursed through other funds or incentive programs related to an
existing fitness program.
Sport lessons, court time and guest fees.
Classes or programs for non-employees.
Program Administration
Complete a request for reimbursement form and submit it to the Human Resources with the
following documentation:
Cancelled check or paid receipt reflecting the type of expense, amount paid, date paid, and
period membership or service covered by receipt.
Description of the program chosen and reimbursement request.
Reimbursement will not be approved for payments made more than 90 calendar days prior to the
reimbursement request. The number of flex/sick leave hours used to fund the reimbursement
will be based on the hourly rate of pay at the time the request is processed. Flex/sick leave for
fitness reimbursement is considered taxable income. Reimbursement for flex/sick leave for
fitness will typically be paid on a monthly basis (as determined by Human Resources) and no
partial payments will be made. Firefighters enrolled in the flex/sick leave for fitness program are
ineligible for the sick leave bonus. The City will not reimburse for payments in excess of 6
calendar months.
Participating in any flex/sick leave for fitness program on City time is not permitted. Employees
submitting false claims for reimbursement are subject to discipline. Human Resources should be
contacted for further program details.
18.8 Safety Eyewear
The City will reimburse employees for basic protective eyewear up to $55.00 per 24 month
period for employees who are required to wear safety eyewear as part of their regular job duties
as approved by the department head. Employees who need replacement of the eyewear due to
work-related damage or disrepair may be reimbursed prior to the expiration of the 24 month
waiting period if approved by the department head.
Reimbursement is limited to ANSI and O.S.H.A. approved eyewear, coatings, lenses, industrial
frames and industrial safety eyewear. Eye examinations, ordering, fitting and photo tropic
(photo gray) or changeable tint lenses are not eligible for reimbursement.
18.9 Smoking Policy
Smoking and/or use of tobacco products are prohibited in all City buildings, vehicles, equipment,
buildings and facilities unless otherwise designated. This shall include the use of any electronic
dispensing device used to vaporize substances for ingestion. “i.e., e-cigarette”
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 73
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 18
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18.10 Workplace Violence
The City of St. Louis Park is committed to providing a safe, secure work environment for
employees and to helping prevent violence, threats, or intimidating actions by or against any City
employee or City customers. The City of St. Louis Park may, in its sole discretion:
Implement security measures to restrict unauthorized entry to City facilities, allow security
surveillance of the premises, and otherwise foster an orderly and safe working environment.
Promote through education and practices the value of a non-violent environment and
lifestyle.
Prohibit the possession or use of firearms, weapons, explosive materials, or any device
principally used as a tool of violence, at City facilities or property, or while conducting
business on behalf of the City of St. Louis Park unless specific authorization for this purpose
has been granted by the City Manager.
Discipline employees, up to and including termination of employment, who threaten or
commit acts of violence abuse, or intimidation, or who bring or carry weapons on to City
property in violation of this policy. Threats and acts of violence include, but are not limited
to, acts communicated orally, graphically, electronically, nonverbally or in written form, with
or without accompanying acts of force.
Remove immediately any customer or employee who threatens or commits an act of violence
on City properties.
Pursue criminal prosecution as appropriate of employees or others who commit criminal
offenses against the City or its employees.
Encourage all employees to promptly notify their supervisor or department head of any
work-related threats or acts of aggression, abuse, or intimidation by employees or non-
employees.
Assist in coordination of counseling services to City employees who are victims or witnesses
of work-related violence.
The department head should inform the City Manager in the event of a serious act or threat of
workplace violence, including those which may be life threatening, or serious and credible, or
otherwise indicative of significant behavioral difficulty.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 74
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 19
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Section 19: Paid-on-Call Firefighters
19.1 Paid-on-Call Employment Definition
“Paid-on-call employment” shall mean regular employment that provides for the continuity of
fire service on an as-needed basis where the normal work schedule is less than fourteen (14)
hours per week. The City Manager and the Fire Chief will develop and implement policies for
paid-on-call firefighters. (Resolution 01-078)
19.2 Paid-on-Call Employees and the Personnel Rules
Due to the unique nature of paid-on-call employment, only certain section of the St. Louis Park
personnel policies shall apply. The following sections of the personnel rules shall apply:
Section 1 Purpose, Adoption and Administration
Section 2 Definitions
Section 3 Employment
Section 5 Employee Records
Section 6.1 Compensation Plan
Section 12.1 Terminations
Section 12.3 Reduction in Force
Section 13 Discipline and Grievance
Section 14 Employee Development
Section 15 Expense Reimbursement
Section 15.17 Public Purpose Expenditure
Section 16 Conduct
Section 17 Computer, Communications and Equipment
Section 18.2 Workers’ Compensation
Section 18.5 Drug Free Workplace
Section 18.6 Licenses
Section 18.9 No Smoking Policy
Section 18.10 Workplace Violence
Section 21 Drug and Alcohol Testing (Resolution 14-128)
19.3 Other Terms and Conditions of Employment
Terms and conditions of employment outside of the sections hereby specified shall be
determined by either Council action or by directive of the Fire Chief with approval by City
Manager. Council approval is required for conditions of employment relating to performance
bonuses or insurance. All other conditions of employment shall be provided for through
department directive. These directives shall be authorized by the Fire Chief and approved by the
City Manager.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 75
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 20
Revised 12/17/13
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Section 20: Fire Department Shift Supervisors: Fire Captain
20.1 Fire Department Shift Supervisors: Fire Captain General Rule
Shift supervisors generally work 24 hour shifts, unless otherwise determined by the Fire Chief.
Schedules are determined by the Fire Chief. Shift supervisors currently work 56 hours a week
which gives a 1.4 relationship (56/40 = 1.4). The general rule to use for conversions is the 1.4
ratio.
In general, shift supervisor Fire Captains will receive the same level of benefits provided in the
personnel manual for other employees with similar FLSA classification as approved by the City
Manager. Conversion should be done to ensure the 56 hour week is equivalent to a regular 40
hour work week. (Resolution 04-076)
20.2 Flex Leave – Fire Department Shift Supervisors
Fire department shift supervisors working 24 hour shifts have a flex leave accrual based on the
flex leave program for day employees. Shift supervisors benefits are determined by the
relationship between their hours worked per week and a 40 hour work week. Currently, shift
supervisors work 56 hours a week which gives a 1.4 relationship (56/40 = 1.4). The accrual
amount for shift supervisors, based on years of employment with the City is as follows:
A. Fire Department Shift Supervisors Flex Leave Accrual
Years of Service Hours Off
Start through 4 269
5 through 10 325
11 336
12 347
13 358
14 370
15 381
B. Flex Leave Cap
Fire department shift supervisors may carry over two times your annual flex leave accrual
plus 224 hours as of the first pay day in September of each year. Flex leave above the
cap will be forfeited.
Flex Leave
Years of Service
First Pay Day in September
Accumulation Cap in Hours
Start through 4 762
5 through 10 874
11 896
12 918
13 940
14 964
15 986
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 76
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 20
Revised 12/17/13
52
C. Annual Transfer of Accumulated Flex Leave
Fire department shift supervisors are required to transfer the value of 56 hours of
accumulated flex leave into a Health Care Savings Plan (HCSP) in accordance with plan
design and IRS regulations. In order to be eligible to transfer time, you must have, at a
minimum, an accumulated flex leave balance of two times the annual accrual plus 224
hours as of the first payroll in September. Employees who meet this eligibility
requirement will be required to transfer 56 hours of flex leave based on the Employee’s
current rate of pay into the HCSP. Any flex leave above the cap after the transfer will be
forfeited. Transfer occurs in October. Program administration for the HCSP is
determined by the City Manager. (Resolution 08-159).
D. Flex Leave – Severance
At the time of separation from the City, if the employee leaves in good standing along
with a minimum of a two week written notice, the employee will receive 100% of their
flex leave balance, not to exceed flex leave cap listed above. In no instance shall
severance exceed this total amount.
E. New Employees – Fire Department Shift Supervisors
New full-time employees hired with the City (not previously working for the City) will
begin with a flex leave accumulation of 34 hours and earn flex leave according to the
above schedule flex leave accrual for use as needed. The 34 hours are part of the total
accrual for their first year of employment. Probationary employees are allowed to use
flex leave as it accrues.
The City Manager will develop policies relating to use of flex leave and transition from
the sick leave program to flex leave.
F. Flex Leave Request
Request for flex leave must be in accordance with department policy as determined by
the Fire Chief. Planned leave greater than 9 continuous work days requires the City
Manager’s approval. (Resolution 04-076)
20.3 Transition to Flex Leave
Employees who move from a position which had been eligible for sick and vacation accrual into
a position which has the flex leave program will convert 100% of their vacation balance to flex
leave. Additionally, up to 224 hours from their current sick leave balance will convert to flex
leave.
The remainder of sick leave balance up to a maximum of 1,120 hours will be frozen. This
conversion to flex leave will occur upon appointment to a Fire Captain position. Employees
shall be paid for such frozen sick balance at the time of termination with the City in accordance
with Section 9.7.
Sick leave hours remaining above the 1,120 limit (up to a maximum of 816) will be placed in a
sick bank, as approved by the City Manager. This sick bank can only be used for qualified sick
leave after all other leave and comp time is exhausted. Once the sick bank is used, it will not be
replaced. If not used, it will not be converted to pay or any other type of leave.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 77
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 20
Revised 12/17/13
53
20.4 Short Term Disability
See Section 10 Short Term Disability
20.5 Funeral Leave
Employees moving from a position that had funeral leave will be issued a one-time credit of
three work days (72 hours) to be placed in a funeral leave bank upon appointment to position of
Fire Captain. This funeral leave bank may be granted on account of a death in the immediate
family of the employee. Once the funeral leave bank is used, it will not be replaced. If not used,
it will not be converted to pay or any other type of leave.
20.6 Holiday
Fire department shift supervisors receive 112 hours off of holiday time off from the annual work
requirement. Holiday time may all be used at the beginning of the year, and, if an employee
leaves the City, they must pay back holiday time not earned. Holiday time does not carry over
from year to year.
A shift Fire Captain on the flex leave program who is on duty working on a holiday, shall be
compensated on the basis on 1 ½ time the regular rate of pay by cash or compensatory time for
actual hours worked on the calendar date of holiday listed in the personnel manual. (Resolution 04-
076)
20.7 Call Back
See Section 6.8 for Call back.
20.8 Injury on Duty
See Section 18.4 Injury on Duty.
20.9 Planned and Unplanned Absence
See Sections 9.9 and 9.10. The Fire Chief may also set additional policies as needed for
absences.
20.10 Schedules
Fire Captains are responsible to work shifts as determined by the Fire Chief.
20.11 Personnel Policy
All other sections of personnel policy also apply to Fire Captains unless otherwise specified.
20.12 Overtime
Captains will be compensated at the rate of 1.5 times regular pay for hours worked in excess of a
scheduled work shift.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 78
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 21
Revised 4/1/11
54
Section 21: Drug and Alcohol Testing
21.1 Drug and Alcohol Testing
It is the policy of the City of St. Louis Park to provide a drug-free environment. The City’s goal
is to establish and maintain a healthy and efficient workforce free from the effects of drug and
alcohol abuse in compliance with the requirements of the federal Drug-Free Workplace Act of
1988 and applicable state law.
The City recognizes drug and alcohol abuse as a potential health, safety and liability problem.
Employees needing help in dealing with drug and alcohol problems are encouraged to make use
of the medical resources available to them through the health care provided by the City.
21.2 Definitions
For the purpose of this policy, the following definitions will apply to this section:
Alcohol - ethyl alcohol.
Confirmatory Test and Confirmatory Retest - a drug or alcohol test that uses a method of
analysis allowed under one of the programs listed in Minn. Stat. 181.953 Subd. 1.
Drug - a controlled substance as defined in Minn. Stat.152.01, Subd.4.
Drug and Alcohol Testing, Drug or Alcohol Testing and Drug or Alcohol Test - analysis of a
body component sample according to the standards established under one of the programs listed
in Minn.Stat.181.953, Subd.1 for the purpose of measuring the presence or absence of drugs,
alcohol or their metabolites in the sample tested.
Drug Paraphernalia - meaning set forth in Minnesota Statutes 152.01, Subd.18.
Employee - a person, independent contractor or person working for an independent contractor
who performs services for the City of St. Louis Park for compensation, in whatever form.
Employer - City of St. Louis Park acting through its City Manager or a designee of the City
Manager. This also includes the St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority and the St.
Louis Park Housing Authority.
Initial Screening Test - a drug or alcohol test that uses a method of analysis under one of the
programs listed in Section 181.953, Subd.1 or alcohol in a sample.
Job Applicant - a person who applies to become an employee of the City of St. Louis Park, and
includes a person who has received a job offer made contingent on the person passing drug and
alcohol testing.
Positive Test Result - finding the presence of drugs, alcohol or their metabolites in the sample
tested in the levels contained in the standards of one of the programs listed in Minn. Stat.
181.953, Subd.1.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 79
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 21
Revised 4/1/11
55
Reasonable Suspicion - a basis for forming a belief based on specific facts and rational
interference drawn from those facts.
Under the Influence - having the presence of a drug or alcohol at or above the level of a positive
test result.
21.3 General
Employees are required to report to work on time and in appropriate mental and physical
condition for work as determined by their supervisor. No employee shall be under the influence
of alcohol while the employee is engaged in conducting the business of the City, or while the
employee is operating the employer’s vehicle, machinery or equipment.
No employee shall use, possess, manufacture, distribute, dispense, sell or transfer drugs or drug
paraphernalia or alcohol while the employee is engaged in conducting business of the City, or
while the employee is operating the employer’s vehicle, machinery or equipment.
Violations of this policy will result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination. A
violation of this policy may also have legal consequences under federal and state laws.
As a condition of employment, each and every employee of the City must abide by the terms of
this policy and must report to their appropriate supervisor any instance of the employee’s being
charged under a criminal drug statute for a violation occurring on or off work premises. If the
employee’s job requires the ability to drive a motor vehicle, the employee must immediately
notify the appropriate supervisor of any temporary loss of driving privileges.
Any such convictions must be reported to the City Manager or to a person designated by the City
Manager within five (5) days after the conviction as required by the federal Drug Free
Workplace Act of 1988. The City shall notify the appropriate federal agency of such conviction
within ten (10) days of receiving notice from the employee.
An employee convicted of a criminal drug offense will be subject to appropriate disciplinary
action and/or required to successfully complete an appropriate rehabilitation program at the
employee’s own expense unless provided to the employee through their insurance coverage. The
City, in its sole discretion, shall determine what disciplinary action is appropriate.
No person will be tested for drugs or alcohol under this policy without the person’s consent. The
City will require an individual to undergo drug or alcohol testing only under the circumstances
described in this policy.
This policy applies to all employees of the City of St. Louis Park and to job applicants who have
received a contingent offer of employment by the City of St. Louis Park.
21.4 Circumstances for Drug and Alcohol Testing
Any employee or job applicant of the City may be tested under the following circumstances:
Job Applicants: The City may require a job applicant to undergo drug or alcohol testing
provided a job offer has been made to the applicant and the same test is required of all job
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 80
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 21
Revised 4/1/11
56
applicants conditionally offered employment for that position. If a job is withdrawn, the City
shall inform the applicant of the reasons for its actions.
Reasonable Suspicion Testing: The City shall require an employee to undergo drug and alcohol
testing if there is a reasonable suspicions that the employee:
is under the influence of drugs and alcohol while conducting the business of the City or
operating City vehicles, machinery or equipment or
used, possessed, sold or transferred drugs, alcohol or drug paraphernalia while the employee
is engaged in conducting the business of the City or operating City vehicles, machinery
equipment or
has sustained a personal injury as that term is defined in Minnesota statutes 176.011, subd.16,
or has caused another person to die or sustain a personal injury while conducting the business
of the City or
has caused a work-related accident or was operating or helping to operate machinery,
equipment or vehicles involved in a work-related accident
Treatment Program Testing: The City shall require an employee to undergo drug and alcohol
testing if the employee has been referred by the City for chemical dependency treatment or
evaluation or is participating in a chemical dependency treatment program under an employee
benefit plan, in which case the employee may be requested or required to undergo drug or
alcohol testing without prior notice during the evaluation or treatment period of up to two years
following successful completion of any prescribed chemical dependency treatment program.
Other Testing: The City may permit an employee who has requested a drug and alcohol test to
undergo testing in accordance with the procedures established by this policy or by State or
Federal Law.
Random Testing and Testing Without Prior Notice: The City shall require employees who
possess a commercial driver’s license (CDL) as a function of their job are defined as “safety
sensitive” under the Federal Highway Administration rules and regulations to submit to random
testing/testing without prior notice under the regulations issued by the United States Department
of Transportation. Those provisions are set forth in a separate policy that applies only to those
employees.
21.5 Refusal to Undergo Testing
Job Applicants: If a job applicant refuses to undergo drug or alcohol testing required by the City,
no such test shall be given, and the job applicant shall be deemed to have withdrawn the
application from employment.
Employees: If any employee refuses to undergo drug or alcohol testing required by the City, no
test shall be given, and the City Manager shall discharge the employee on grounds of
insubordination.
Refusal on Religious Grounds: No employee or job applicant who refuses to undergo drug or
alcohol testing of a blood sample upon religious grounds shall be deemed to have refused unless
the employee or job applicant also refuses to undergo drug or alcohol testing of a urine sample.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 81
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 21
Revised 4/1/11
57
21.6 Procedure for Testing
Testing will be done in accordance with state statute and industry standards using a testing
laboratory that certifies its compliance with the requirements of Minnesota Statutes 181.953.
21.7 Tampering With the Urine or Blood Sample
If an employee tampers with his or her own urine or blood sample, or in any way deliberately
causes a sample to be invalid, the employee may be subject to discipline including, but not
limited to, discharge.
21.8 Rights of Employees
Notice of test results: Within three working days after the receipt of the test result report from
the testing laboratory, the City shall inform am employee or job applicant who has undergone
drug or alcohol testing in writing of a negative test result on an initial screening test or of a
negative or positive test result on a confirmatory test. The City shall also inform an employee of
job applicant of the following rights pursuant to Minn. Stat. 181.953:
The right to request and receive from the City a copy of the report of the test result.
The right to request within five (5) working days after notice of a positive test result a
confirmatory retest of the original sample at the employee’s or job applicant’s own expense.
If a confirmatory retest is conducted in accordance with Minn. Stat. 181.953, Subd. 1 by a
licensed laboratory at the same threshold detection levels used in the confirmatory test, and
the confirmatory retest does not result in a positive test result the City shall reimburse the
employee or job applicant the actual cost of the confirmatory test.
The right to submit information to the City within three (3) working days after a notice of a
positive test result to explain that result.
The right of an employee for whom a positive test result on a confirmatory test was the first
such result on a drug or alcohol test requested by the City, not to be discharged unless the
City has first given the employee an opportunity to participate in either a drug or alcohol
counseling or rehabilitation program. Participation in a counseling or rehabilitation program
will be at the employee’s own expense or pursuant to coverage under an employee’s benefit
plan. The City may determine which type of program is more appropriate for the employee
after consultation with a certified chemical use counselor or a physician trained in the
diagnosis and treatment of chemical dependency. The employee may be discharged if he/she
has either refused to participate in the counseling or rehabilitation program or has failed to
successfully complete the program. Withdrawal from the program before its completion, or a
positive test result on a confirmatory test after completion of the program, will be evidence
that the employee failed to successfully complete the program.
The right to be reinstated with back pay if the outcome of the confirmatory test is negative.
The right not to be discharged, disciplined, discriminated against or required to be
rehabilitated on the basis of medical history information revealed to the City concerning the
reliability of, or explanation for, a positive test result unless the employee or job applicant
was under an affirmative duty to provide the information before, upon, or after hire.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 82
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 21
Revised 4/1/11
58
The right to access the information in the employee’s personnel file relating to positive test
result reports and other information acquired in the drug and alcohol testing process
including conclusions drawn and actions taken based on the reports or other required
information.
The right of an employee or a job applicant, who has received a job offer made contingent on
the applicant passing drug and alcohol testing, to not have the offer withdrawn based on a
positive test result from an initial screening test that has not been verified by a confirmatory
test.
21.9 Action after Test
Job Applicants: The City Manager will not withdraw an offer of employment made contingent
on the job applicant passing drug and alcohol testing based on a positive test result from an
initial screening test that has not been verified by a confirmatory test (and a confirmatory retest,
if required). A job applicant who receives a positive test result, fails or refuses a confirmatory
retest, or does not request in writing a confirmatory retest within five days after notice of a
positive test result of a confirmatory test, may be refused employment, and will be notified of the
reasons of such refusal.
Employees: The City will not discharge, discipline, discriminate against or request or require
rehabilitation of an employee solely on the basis of a positive test result from an initial screening
test that has not been verified in a confirmatory test, and in any confirmatory retest, the City may
do the following:
a. First Positive Test Result: Give the employee the opportunity to participate in either a
drug or alcohol counseling or rehabilitation program, whichever is more appropriate. The
City through its Employee Assistance Program may determine which program is more
appropriate after consultation with a certified chemical use counselor or physician trained
in the diagnosis and treatment of chemical dependency. Participation in a counseling or
rehabilitation program will be at the employee’s own expense or pursuant to coverage
under an employee’s own benefit plan. If the employee either refuses to participate in the
counseling or rehabilitation program or fails to successfully complete the program, as
evidenced by withdrawal from the program before its completion or by a positive test
result on a confirmatory test after completion of the program, will be discharged from
employment by the City Manager.
b. Second Positive Test Result: Additional offenses will be reviewed on a case by case
basis. Discipline may include suspension and/or termination of employment.
c. Suspensions and Transfers: Not withstanding any other provisions herein, the City may
temporarily suspend the tested employee with or without pay for up to 30 days or transfer
that employee to another position at the same rate of pay pending the outcome of the
confirmatory test and, if requested, the confirmatory retest, provided the City believes
that it is reasonably necessary to protect the health or safety of the employee, co-
employees or the public.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 83
City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual Section 21
Revised 4/1/11
59
d. Other Misconduct: Nothing in this policy limits the right of the City to discipline or
discharge an employee on grounds other than a positive test result in a confirmatory test,
including conviction of any criminal drug statute for a violation occurring in the
workplace.
21.10 Data Privacy
The City will not disclose the test result reports and other information acquired in the drug or
alcohol testing process to another employer or to a third party individual, governmental agency
or private organization without the written consent of the employee tested, unless permitted by
law or court order.
21.11 Appeals Procedure
Concerning disciplinary actions taken pursuant to this drug and alcohol testing policy, available
appeal procedures are as follows:
Job applicants shall have no right of appeal.
Temporary, probationary, and seasonal employees as defined in the City of St. Louis Park
Personnel Manual shall have no right of appeal.
Regular employees as defined in the City of St. Louis Park Personnel Manual shall submit in
writing, an appeal within five calendar days of a positive confirmatory test, to: Director of
Human Resources, City of St. Louis Park, 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN
55416.
An employee who is covered by a collective bargaining agreement may elect to seek relief
under the terms of that agreement by contacting the appropriate union and initiating a
grievance procedure.
21.12 Other Misconduct
Nothing in this policy limits the right of the employer to discipline or discharge an employee on
grounds other than a positive test result in a confirmatory test. For example, possession but not
consumption of a controlled substance, the sale of a controlled substance on City premises, or
conviction under any criminal drug statute for a violation occurring in the workplace, may by
themselves, be grounds for discipline or discharge. Any City employee may be subject to
discipline up to and including termination, as well as any relevant federal or state criminal
proceedings for violation of this policy or any rules adopted by the City with respect to the
manufacture, use, sale or transfer of drugs and alcohol.
21.13 Administrative Responsibility
The City Manager or designee shall be responsible for implementing this policy.
Each department head and supervisor shall be responsible for informing their employees of
this policy.
Each employee of the City shall be notified of this policy.
The City has the unilateral right to modify this policy as changes in regulations or laws
occur.
Policy originally adopted by the City in November, 1995. Updated and approved by the City Manager
and added to Personnel Manual 06/02.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 4)
Title: Compensation and Personnel Programs Page 84
Meeting: Study Session
Meeting Date: April 27, 2015
Written Report: 5
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: Health in the Park Update
RECOMMENDED ACTION: No action needed at this time
POLICY CONSIDERATION: Does the Council need any additional information on HIP
activities and upcoming “Park the Street 2!”?
SUMMARY: The purpose of this report is to provide a brief summary of 2015 Health in the
Park (HIP) activities. Team members of staff, citizens and partners meet regularly to work on
projects and upcoming events. The attached page has a detailed outline of the activities in first
half of the year with HIP. Along with other activities and planning with HIP, we want to make
sure we highlight the upcoming Park the Street 2!
Mark your calendar for the upcoming Park the Street 2!
• This event will be held on Sunday, June 7th from 12:00 Noon to 4:00 p.m.
• The location is Texas Avenue between 28th Street and Minnetonka Boulevard.
• It will also include a one block long protected bike lane between Cedar Lake Trail and
Texas Avenue.
• Events and activities are in the planning stage at this time and more information will be
provided on social media when scheduled. We are working with Max Musicant on the
events, programs and other activities that will be held during this event.
• Neighbors have been informed about this event with flyers, door-to-door conversations and
mailings.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: Health in the Park is a community initiative
that began with funding from Blue Cross Blue Shield mid-year 2013. Funding will end June
2016.
VISION CONSIDERATION: St. Louis Park is committed to being a connected and engaged
community.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: Discussion
Prepared by: Bridget Gothberg, Organizational Development
Reviewed by: Nancy Deno, Deputy City Manager/HR Director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5) Page 2
Title: Health in the Park Update
DISCUSSION
BACKGROUND: Health in the Park is a community initiative that began with funding from
Blue Cross Blue Shield mid-year in 2013. Funding will end June 2016. Background and details
on HIP can be found on their website www.HIPSLP.org or on their Facebook page.
Activities have included focus groups, community conversations, education and making
connections with other businesses and agencies in St. Louis Park. The City is partnering with the
school district, Park Nicollet, TwinWest Chamber, Children First and the faith community.
We are pleased that this initiative is strong and growing in our community. In 2014 we held our
first Park the Street event that was wildly successful. We are looking forward to the 2nd event in
June 2014.
Below is a summary report on activities and initiatives including planning for 2015-16.
The first quarter report is as follows (January – March):
• Held “A Community Conversation” on Mental Health. The Keynote Speaker was
Meteorologist Ken Barlow. It was a very successful community event with over 350
attendees.
• Moving forward, we have looked at our champion groups of citizens and have redesigned
them. The areas of focus have moved to: Well-Being (focus on Mental Health
conversations), Better Eating, SEEDS (Community gardens), and Active Connections.
• City of St. Louis Park staff participated in a food drive for STEP.
• City Council supported March as National Nutrition Month. Below are some of the
successful events that happened in March from the work of the Better Eating group.
- St. Louis Park Byerly’s had a dietician at the grocery store to talk with customers
about healthy eating
- YUM had a special “healthy” dish in honor of National Nutrition Month.
- Kids Place from Community Education sent home healthy recipes to parents.
- Staff worked with high school students who want to be a part of Health in the Park.
The next quarter plans and activities (April – June) include:
• Planning continues with our Park the Street 2!
- This event will be held on Sunday, June 7th from 12:00 Noon to 4:00 p.m. in St.
Louis Park on Texas Avenue between 28th Street and Minnetonka Boulevard.
- It will also include a one block long protected bike lane between Cedar Lake Trail
and Texas Avenue.
• Beginning dialogue with our Somali and Hispanic communities. Inclusion of these
languages in our promotions.
• Submit grant proposal for final year from Blue Cross Blue Shield
• Facilitating a process called “Ripple Effect”. The purpose is to find out how HIP has
reached to the community and to determine what is missing.
• Working with Wilder Foundation to develop data and stories about HIP.
• Starting to develop a HIP sustainability plan.
Additional information on HIP can be provided to you by contacting Bridget Gothberg,
Organizational Development 952.924.2684 or bgothberg@stlouispark.org
Meeting: Study Session
Meeting Date: April 27, 2015
Written Report: 6
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: 13th Lane and Texas Avenue MnDOT Parcels
RECOMMENDED ACTION: No action required at this time. The purpose of this report is to
provide an update to the Council regarding the purchase of the two above properties from the
Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) and the selling of the same properties to
Melrose Development for redevelopment.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: None at this time. Staff anticipates submitting a purchase
agreement for approval on consent at the May 4th Council meeting.
SUMMARY: Melrose Development is interested in the vacant properties at 13th Lane and
Texas Avenue for a multi-family redevelopment. The properties are currently unplatted and
referred to as the 13th Lane Parcel and the Texas Avenue Parcel. (A map is attached showing
their locations.) Approximately 39 units are proposed for the 13th Lane site, and 30 units for the
Texas Ave site. The redevelopment concept was presented to the Council at the February 2, 2015
Study Session. At that meeting the Council indicated they were generally supportive of the
redevelopment concept presented by Melrose Development, and would be willing to consider a
Comprehensive Plan Land Use Amendment and PUD on these sites to facilitate the
redevelopment concept.
The properties are currently owned by MnDOT and the City initiated the conveyance process
with MnDOT due to the interest expressed by Melrose Development in redeveloping the
properties. MnDOT has provided conditional letters of approval for both properties. With the
Council’s previous direction, Staff will proceed with acquiring the properties from MnDOT and
entering into a purchase agreement with Melrose Development in order to sell the properties to
the developer. Staff does not support holding the properties, and as such, supports serving as a
conduit between MnDOT and Melrose Development in order to facilitate the conveyance of the
properties to Melrose for redevelopment. Staff will provide a final report with purchase
agreement for Council approval in May.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: The most efficient conveyance process is
from MnDOT to a public entity. The total price for the two properties is $488,000. The City
would collect the funds from Melrose Development, hold the funds in escrow and then
simultaneously close on the properties with MnDOT and Melrose Development. The developer
is not requesting any financial assistance.
VISION CONSIDERATION: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a well-maintained and
diverse housing stock.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: Map of Area of Interest
Draft Purchase Agreement
Prepared by: Ryan Kelley, Associate Planner
Sean Walther, Senior Planner
Reviewed by: Michele Schnitker, Housing Supervisor
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 6) Title: 13th Lane and Texas Avenue MnDOT ParcelsPage 2
1
PURCHASE AGREEMENT
This Agreement made and entered into this __ day of , 2015, by and
between the City of St. Louis Park (“Seller”) and Melrose Development LLC its assigns or
successors (“Buyer”).
Whereas, in consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements herein contained and
other good and valuable consideration in hand paid by Buyer to Seller as more fully set forth
below, the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged by the Seller, it is hereby
agreed as follows:
1. Sale of Property. Seller agrees to transfer and convey to Buyer by quit claim deed two
parcels of land located in the County of Hennepin, State of Minnesota (hereinafter collectively
called the "Subject Properties") as legally described on Exhibit "A" attached hereto. The two
parcels identified as “Parcel 1” and “Parcel 2” on Exhibit “A” are commonly referred to as the
13th Lane Property and Texas Avenue Property, respectively.
2. Purchase Price and Manner of Payment. The total purchase price ("Purchase Price")
to be paid by Buyer to Seller in exchange for the quit claim deeds to the Subject Properties shall
be Four Hundred Eighty-eight Thousand and 00/100s Dollars ($488,000.00) payable in cash or
certified funds at closing. The Purchase Price is allocated as follows: $240,000.00 for the 13th
Lane Property and $248,000.00 for the Texas Avenue Property.
The Purchase Price shall be paid by Buyer to Seller upon the full execution of this
Agreement, and shall be held in escrow by Seller for Buyer’s benefit pending Seller’s
confirmation of funds, whereupon Seller shall acquire the Subject Properties from the State of
Minnesota, Department of Transportation (MnDOT) upon the terms and conditions of the offers
made to Seller by MnDOT (collectively, the “MnDOT Offers”) in its letters to Seller dated
March 5, 2015 (as to the Texas Avenue Property) and March 27, 2015 (as to the 13th Lane
Property). Upon such acquisition of the Subject Properties by Seller from MnDOT and Seller’s
tender of the Deeds to Buyer, Buyer shall not under any circumstances be entitled to a return of
the Purchase Price.
3. Closing Costs. In addition to the Purchase Price, Buyer will reimburse Seller for all out-
of-pocket costs incurred by Seller in connection with review and analysis of the conveyance
from MnDOT to Seller and from Seller to Buyer. Such costs may include survey and platting
costs, fees paid to attorneys, and any planning and engineering consultants retained by Seller in
connection with review of the conveyances. Buyer shall also be responsible for state deed tax,
recording fees, title examination and any other costs relating to the MnDOT transfer to Seller
and the transfer to Buyer by Seller.
4. Date and Place of Closing. The date for the closing of the sale shall be on or before
________________________, or on such other date as the parties mutually agree at a location
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 6)
Title: 13th Lane and Texas Avenue MnDOT Parcels Page 3
2
on which the parties can mutually agree, but in all events promptly upon receipt of the quit claim
deeds from MnDOT pursuant to the terms of the MnDOT Offers. Possession of the Subject
Properties to Buyer shall be delivered at closing.
5. Seller Makes No Representations and Warranties. Seller is acting solely as a conduit
for the conveyance of the Subject Properties between MnDOT and Buyer and makes no
representation as to the physical condition of or title to the Subject Properties.
6. Acknowledgments of Buyer. Buyer acknowledges that it has been granted access to the
Subject Properties, has inspected the Subject Properties to the extent deemed necessary and
desirable and by consummating the transaction hereby contemplated Buyer shall be deemed to
be satisfied with the condition thereof. Buyer agrees and represents that Buyer is purchasing the
Subject Properties and will accept the Subject Properties in its “as-is” condition. Buyer also
acknowledges that prior to execution of this Agreement it has satisfied itself as to title to the
Subject Properties.
7. Indemnification. Buyer will indemnify and hold Seller harmless from any expenses or
damages, including reasonable attorney’s fees, that Seller incurs in connection with any claim by
a third party relating to the condition of the Subject Properties, including any claim pursuant to
state or federal law relating to the cleanup of hazardous or other regulated substances, that is
based on or results from Seller’s ownership of the Subject Properties.
8. Reconveyance. Buyer will by October 1, 2016 commence construction of a
development on both of the Subject Properties generally consistent with the redevelopment
proposal submitted by Buyer and described in the February 2, 2015 Staff Report to the City
Council of the City of St. Louis Park. If construction has not commenced by this date, Seller
may, at its sole discretion, demand reconveyance to Seller of the parcel(s) on which no
development has commenced. The reconveyance shall occur within ninety (90) days after
written demand to Buyer by Seller. Buyer shall reconvey the parcel or parcels by Limited
Warranty Deed, free and clear of any encumbrances placed on the property after Buyer’s
acquisition of the parcel(s), in exchange for payment of the original Purchase Price set forth in
Paragraph 2 herein for the parcel or parcels being reconveyed, such payment to be made by
Seller to Buyer upon delivery of such Limited Warranty Deed. Seller’s right to demand
reconveyance shall expire on December 1, 2016. These deadlines may be extended to a later date
if mutually agreed upon by Seller and Buyer.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be
executed as of the day and year first above written.
SELLER: CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK
By:
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 6)
Title: 13th Lane and Texas Avenue MnDOT Parcels Page 4
3
Jeffrey W. Jacobs, Mayor
By:
Thomas K. Harmening, City Manager
BUYER: MELROSE COMPANY LLC
By:
___________________, Chief Manager
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 6)
Title: 13th Lane and Texas Avenue MnDOT Parcels Page 5
4
EXHIBIT "A"
LEGAL DESCRIPTION
“Parcel 1”
All of Tracts A, B, C, D, E, F and G described below:
Tract A
That part of Lot 2, Block 1, Penn-Zayta, according to the plat thereof on file and
of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Hennepin County,
Minnesota, the title thereto being registered; lying southerly of the following
described line: Beginning at a point on the west line of said Lot 2, distant 112.56
feet northerly of the southwest corner thereof; thence easterly to a point on the
east line of said Lot 2, distant 113.07 feet northerly of the southeast corner
thereof and there terminating;
Tract B.
That part of Lot 3, Block 1, Penn-Zayta, according to the plat thereof on file and
of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Hennepin County,
Minnesota, the title thereto being registered; lying southerly of the following
described line: Beginning at a point on the west line of said Lot 3, distant 113.07
feet northerly of the southwest corner thereof; thence easterly to a point on the
east line of said Lot 3, distant 113.58 feet northerly of the southeast corner
thereof and there terminating;
Tract C.
That part of Lot 4, Block 1, Penn-Zayta, according to the plat thereof on file and
of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Hennepin County,
Minnesota, the title thereto being registered; lying southerly of the following
described line: Beginning at a point on the west line of said Lot 4, distant 113.58
feet northerly of the southwest corner thereof; thence easterly to a point on the east line of said
Lot 4, distant 114.09 feet northerly of the southeast corner thereof and there terminating;
Tract D.
That part of Lot 5, Block 1, Penn-Zayta, according to the plat thereof on file and
of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Hennepin County,
Minnesota, the title thereto being registered; lying southerly of the following
described line: Beginning at a point on the west line of said Lot 5, distant 114.09
feet northerly of the southwest corner thereof; thence easterly to a point on the
east line of said Lot 5, distant 114.60 feet northerly of the southeast corner
thereof and there terminating;
Tract E.
That part of Lot 6, Block 1, Penn-Zayta, according to the plat thereof on file and
of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Hennepin County,
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 6)
Title: 13th Lane and Texas Avenue MnDOT Parcels Page 6
5
Minnesota, the title thereto being registered; lying southerly of the following
described line: Beginning at a point on the west line of said Lot 6, distant 114.60
feet northerly of the southwest corner thereof; thence easterly to a point on the
east line of said Lot 6, distant 115.11 feet northerly of the southeast corner
thereof and there terminating;
Tract F.
That part of Lot 7, Block 1, Penn-Zayta, according to the plat thereof on file and
of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Hennepin County,
Minnesota, the title "thereto being registered; lying southerly of the following
described line: Beginning at a point on the west line of said Lot 7, distant 115.11
feet northerly of the southwest corner thereof; thence easterly to a point on the
east line of said Lot 7, distant 115.62 feet northerly of the southeast corner
thereof and there terminating;
Tract G.
That part of Lot 8, Block 1, Penn-Zayta, according to the plat thereof on file and
of record in the office of the County Recorder in and for Hennepin County,
Minnesota, the title thereto being registered; lying southerly of the following
described line: Beginning at a point on the west line of said Lot 8, distant 115.62
feet northerly of the southwest corner thereof; thence easterly to a point on the
east line of said Lot 8, distant 116.13 feet northerly of the southeast corner
thereof and there terminating.
“Parcel 2”
That part of the Northwest Quarter of the Southwest Quarter of Section 5,
Township 117 North, Range 21 West, Hennepin County, Minnesota, described as
follows: Beginning at a point on the north line of the Southwest Quarter of said
Section 5, distant 12 rods east of the northwest corner thereof; thence south for 20
rods; thence deflect to the left at an angle of 90 degrees 00 minutes and run
easterly to the public road (known as Texas Avenue) running south from Wayzata
Boulevard (as located and established prior to November 15, 1961); thence north
along said public road to the south line of said Wayzata Boulevard; thence west to
the point of beginning;
containing 1.30 acres, more or less.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 6)
Title: 13th Lane and Texas Avenue MnDOT Parcels Page 7
6
EXHIBIT “B”
TO
PURCHASE AGREEMENT
(Reserved for Recording Data)
____________________________________________________________________________
STATE DEED TAX DUE HEREON: $______
Dated:___________________________, 2015
FOR VALUABLE CONSIDERATION, the CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK, a
Minnesota municipal corporation, Grantor, hereby conveys and quit claims to MELROSE
COMPANY LLC, a Minnesota limited liability company, Grantee, real property in Hennepin
County, Minnesota, legally described as follows:
See Exhibit “A” attached hereto and made a part hereof by reference.
together with all hereditaments and appurtenances belonging thereto, subject to the following
exceptions: None
THE GRANTOR CERTIFIES THAT THE GRANTOR DOES NOT KNOW OF ANY WELLS ON THE
DESCRIBED REAL PROPERTY.
CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK
By:
Jeffrey W. Jacobs, Mayor
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 6)
Title: 13th Lane and Texas Avenue MnDOT Parcels Page 8
7
By:
Thomas K. Harmening, City Manager STATE OF
MINNESOTA )
)ss.
COUNTY OF HENNEPIN )
The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me this _________ day of
_____________________, 2015, by Jeffrey W. Jacobs and Thomas K. Harmening, respectively
the Mayor and City Manager of the City of St. Louis Park, a Minnesota municipal corporation,
on its behalf.
___________________________________
Notary Public
Tax Statements for the real property
described in this instrument should be sent
to: Melrose Company LLC
16676 County Road 9
Lester Prairie, Minnesota 55354
THIS INSTRUMENT WAS DRAFTED BY:
CAMPBELL KNUTSON
Professional Association
317 Eagandale Office Center
1380 Corporate Center Curve
Eagan, Minnesota 55121
651-452-5000
TMS/cjh
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 6)
Title: 13th Lane and Texas Avenue MnDOT Parcels Page 9
Meeting: Study Session
Meeting Date: April 27, 2015
Written Report: 7
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design
Guidelines Study
RECOMMENDED ACTION: The purpose of this report is to update the City Council on
staff’s recommendations for Zoning Ordinance changes as they relate to yards, parking, and
screening.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: Does the Council support the proposed changes to the zoning
ordinance?
SUMMARY: Staff proposes ordinance text amendments as a result of the South Side of
Excelsior Design Guidelines study process. City staff worked with a consultant and a Task Force
on Design Guidelines for the South Side of Excelsior Boulevard in 2014. The Task Force
completed its study in December and the study includes recommended amendments to the
zoning code. The Planning Commission and City Council reviewed the design guidelines at a
joint meeting. Also, Staff has reported on the development of the following zoning amendments
during Planning Commission Study Sessions and has prepared an ordinance to implement the
changes. The Planning Commission held a public hearing for the revised ordinance on April 1,
2015; no one was present to speak, nor were any comments received. The Planning Commission
recommended approval of the Ordinance changes.
Some of the code changes identified for the South Side of Excelsior Boulevard are also
appropriate for the City more broadly. Also, many of the C-1 Neighborhood Commercial zoning
districts in the City share common features with the South Side of Excelsior Boulevard, such as
being located on relatively small lots, on higher traffic streets, and adjacent to residential uses.
The proposed Zoning Ordinance provisions would not just apply to Excelsior Boulevard but also
be incorporated in C-1 and C-2 zoning districts. The proposed procedural and policy changes are
discussed in more detail later in this report.
NEXT STEPS: These text amendments and the Southside of Excelsior Design Guidelines will
be on the May 4th Consent agenda for acceptance. Staff will present the items as an action item at
the May 4, 2015 Council Meeting.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: None.
VISION CONSIDERATION: Not applicable.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: Discussion
Draft of Ordinance Changes
Design Guidelines for the South Side of Excelsior Boulevard
Prepared by: Nicole Mardell, Community Development Intern
Reviewed by: Sean Walther, Senior Planner
Michele Schnitker, Housing Supervisor
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 7) Page 2
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study
DISCUSSION
Background
Planning staff has been working with a consultant and City Council appointed Task Force on
Design Guidelines for the South Side of Excelsior Boulevard. The process has included several
Task Force meetings, two neighborhood-wide meetings, and a joint review session between the
City Council and Planning Commission. The draft Design Guidelines was received in November
of 2014 and includes a section on recommended code changes. Staff has reviewed the
recommendations and proposes zoning ordinance amendments to reflect Design Guidelines in
the C-1 and C-2 zoning districts.
Policy Changes
The major policy changes included in the proposed revisions to the zoning ordinance fall into
three categories:
1. Yards
2. Parking
3. Screening
Side yards in the C-1 and C-2 Zoning Districts: The current minimum width of a side yard
abutting a street is 15 feet. The amendment decreases the minimum width of a side yard to five
feet in the C-1 and C-2 zoning districts. This will allow buildings to be closer to the streets and
sidewalks. Building placement is one contributing factor in improving the pedestrian atmosphere
of commercial corridors and intersections.
To be consistent with the Design Guidelines, the code suggests requiring buildings with three or
more stories in the C-1 district to set stories above the second floor back by at least 10 feet from
the front and side property line abutting a street.
Parking in All Districts: Staff recommends reducing the minimum drive aisle width in parking
lots from 25.0 feet to 24.0 feet for 90 degree angle stalls in all zoning districts. The City has
granted several variances to allow this width in the past. Since the City has frequently considered
this width acceptable, staff recommends allowing 24.0 feet as the citywide minimum requirement.
Parking in C-1 Zoning Districts: In the C-1 zoning district, the Design Guidelines
recommended allowing the minimum parking lot aisle width to be reduced to 22.0 feet. When
the drive aisle is less than 24.0 feet, the Planning Commission recommended requiring the
parking stall minimum width to increase to 9.0 feet. The 22.0 foot aisle width has been allowed
in parking structures within St. Louis Park and has been deemed appropriate for other areas of
the city. Due to the similarities between the C-1 Zoning District and the South Side of Excelsior
Boulevard, staff recommends applying this throughout the C-1 district.
The Design Guidelines recommend prohibiting parking in front of a building. This will promote
parking to be located in the rear or side yard, which will contribute to the pedestrian realm and
provide separations between residential and commercial buildings. Staff recommends applying
this rule to all C-1 district properties.
Screening in C-1 Zoning Districts
To further define and enhance the buffer zone between commercial and residential properties, the
Design Guidelines recommend increasing the height of screen fences /walls from six feet to eight
feet. Also, the Design Guidelines recommend requiring parking lots to be at least eight feet from
adjacent residential properties in order to provide more distance between the parking lot and
residential uses and more land for landscaping and the screen fence. Again, staff recommends
applying this rule to all C-1 properties.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 7) Page 3
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study
ORDINANCE NO. 15-____
CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK
HENNEPIN COUNTY, MINNESOTA
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 36 OF THE
ST. LOUIS PARK CITY CODE CREATING A PLANNED
UNIT DEVELOPMENT ZONING DISTRICT
THE CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK DOES ORDAIN:
SECTION 1. Chapter 36 is amended to add the following:
Sec. 36-193. C-1 neighborhood commercial district.
***
(f) Dimensional standards/densities.
(3) A side yard abutting a street shall be a minimum of five15 feet wide for one and
two story buildings. Upper stories of buildings taller than two stories shall be setback at
least 10 feet from the side lot line adjacent to a street.
(4) The front yard shall be a minimum of five feet for one and two story buildings.
The upper stories of buildings taller than two stories shall be setback at least 10 feet
from the front lot line.
***
Sec. 36-194. C-2 general commercial district.
***
(g) Dimensional standards/densities.
(3) A side yard abutting a street shall not be less than five15 feet in width.
***
Sec. 36-361. Off-street parking areas, paved areas, and loading spaces.
***
(k) Design Requirements
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 7) Page 4
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study
PARKING LOT DIMENSIONS
Table 36-361 (b)
Stall Angle
(degrees)
Curb Length
(feet)
Vehicle Projection
(feet)
Aisle Width
(feet)
Total Width
(feet)
45 Standard
Compact
12.0
11.5
18.5
17.0
13.0*
50.0
60 Standard
Compact
10.0
9.5
20.0
18.0
15.0*
55.0
75 Standard
Compact
9.0
8.5
20.5
17.5
18.0*
59.0
90*** Standard
Compact
8.5
8.0
18.0
16.0
25.0 24.0
610.0**
Parallel Standard
Compact
23.0
21.0
8.5
8.0
22.0
38.0
* One-way aisles only.
** When parking is provided within a parking ramp, the total bay width may be reduced to 58
feet.
*** In a C-1 district the minimum aisle width may be reduced to 22.0 feet and minimum total
width of 58.0 feet, with the condition that aisles less than 24.0 feet wide shall provide a
minimum curb length of 9.0 feet.
***
(10) Yards. Required parking areas shall be subject to the following requirements:
b. In the C-1, C-2, O, I-P and I-G districts, parking areas shall be permitted
in the front yard and side yards abutting a street, provided that the yard
shall not be reduced to less than five feet.
c. In the C-1 district:
1. Parking spaces and drive aisles shall not be located between a
building and a street, except that a through lot may have parking
between the building and less prominent street, as determined by the
Zoning Administrator.
2. The minimum yard requirement for parking spaces and drive aisles
shall be zero (0.0) when located adjacent to a non-residential district.
3. The minimum yard requirement for parking spaces and drive aisles
shall be eight feet when abutting a residentially zoned property.
4. The minimum yard requirement for parking spaces shall be five feet
when adjacent to a street.
***
Sec. 36-364. Landscaping
(4) Parking lots:
a. All off street parking areas and drive lanes located within 30 feet of any parcel
that is zoned residential and used or subdivided for residential or has an
occupied institutional building such as a school, religious institution or
community center shall be screened with landscaping and a solid fence or wall
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 7) Page 5
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study
a minimum of eight six feet high in the side and back rear yard and 42 48
inches in the when adjacent to a front yard. A hedge may be substituted for the
fence in the front yard only.
SECTION 2. The contents of Planning Case File 15-10-ZA are hereby entered into and made
part of the public hearing record and the record of decision for this case.
SECTION 3. This Ordinance shall take effect fifteen days after its passage and publication.
Public Hearing April 1, 2015
First Reading May 4, 2015
Second Reading May 18, 2015
Date of Publication May 28, 2015
Date Ordinance takes effect June 12, 2015
Reviewed for Administration Adopted by the City Council May 18, 2015
City Manager Mayor
Attest: Approved as to Form and Execution:
City Clerk City Attorney
April 16, 2015
for the South Side of
Excelsior Boulevard
Design Guidelines
LHB, Inc. SRF Consulting Group, Inc
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 6
2 St. Louis Park Design Guidelines
Client
St. Louis Park
City Staff
Tom Harmening, City Manager
Kevin Locke, Community Development Director
Meg McMonigal, Planning and Zoning Supervisor
Sean Walther, Senior Planner
Julie Grove, Planning/Economic Development Assistant
Consultant Team
LHB, Inc.
SRF Consulting Group, Inc.
Design Guidelines for the South Side of Excelsior Boulevard
Task Force Members
Robb Bader
Caitlin Goff
Bob Cunningham
Maureen Fitzgerald
Alison Moehnke
June Petrie
Larry North
Michael Edlavitch
Sam Bryson
Graham Merry
Matt Stangl
Aimee Olson
Thia Bryan
Ben Stewart
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 7
Table of Contents3
Table of Contents
Introduction
Context
Context and Conditions
Corridor Zones
Commercial and Residential Zoning
Process and Schedule
Planning Process
Goals, Themes and Directions
Design Guidelines Overview
Boulevard Experience
Public Realm
Neighborhood Interface
Site Design
Building Design
Traffic, Access and Parking
Boulevard Experience
Guidelines
4-5
6
6-7
8-9
10-11
12
12-13
14
16
16
16
16
17
17
17
18
18-19
Public Realm
Guidelines
Neighborhood Interface
Guidelines
Site Design
Guidelines
Building Design
Guidelines
Traffic, Access and Parking
Guidelines
Considerations for Code Revisions
Demonstration
4500-4600 Block
4900 Block
20
20-21
22
22-23
24
24-27
28
28-31
32
32-35
36
38
38
39
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 8
Introduction
4 St. Louis Park Design Guidelines
Introduction
Creating a set of guidelines to shape the future of the
south side of Excelsior Boulevard is a forward-looking
action intended to enhance the ways the study area fits
an important community corridor. The process is not
reactive; during the planning process there were no
imminent proposals for change. But just as important,
the interests of neighbors are served as they contemplate
a longer term view of primarily commercially-zoned
parcels that immediately abut a residential area.
The guidelines address a series of parcels that exist in a
narrow band along the south side of Excelsior Boulevard
between Quentin Avenue and France Avenue. Guidance
is offered to shape:
• the public realm, ensuring the qualities of an
extensive streetscape that defines Excelsior Boulevard
are recognized as new investment occurs;
• site design, directing key components of the
configuration of a site to maintain focus on goals
related to a walkable public realm;
• building design, affirming the ways in which the most
dominant element of a parcel establishes consistency
in quality, orientation, and experience;
• neighborhood interface, establishing clear directions
for the ways in which development within the study
area is defined relative to residential neighbors to the
south; and
• traffic, access, and parking, suggesting patterns of
movement for vehicles that are efficient and safe and
encouraging integration of elements that support the
use of the site with its overall design character.
These guidelines are intended as a tool to creatively
shape development. They aim at intentions first, and
then support the stated intentions with a series of
design directions. Proponents of new development or
investment might find ways to satisfy the intentions of
Figure1.2 Existing image of Excelsior Boulevard at Natchez Ave/Grand Way.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 9
5 Introductionthe guidelines in ways that do not perfectly align with
their more specific guidance. In this way, the guidelines
are not prescriptive, but provide a way of offering
guidance to developers and property owners, neighbors,
and the city—all parties who have an interest in creating
enduring patterns of development in the study areas
oriented to goals established or reinforced during the
planning process.
The guidelines do not replace the city’s zoning regulations.
For someone seeking to create something they feel is a
better fit to a difficult parcel—or even one where there
are few development constraints—the guidelines aid in
defining directions that align with broader goals for the
corridor. They provide a way of establishing consistency
in investment beyond zoning.
The guidelines are not a mandate, and developers may
choose to invest following patterns that align exactly
with a parcel’s zoning. But the process used to create
the guidelines suggest a more inviting long-term view
of parcels within the study area, should the intentions
of these guidelines be addressed as change happens on
sites. They demonstrate a preference arrived at through
a dialog with interested stakeholders—property owners
and neighbors, and they suggest a way of extending that
dialog with those who choose to make change along the
south side of Excelsior Boulevard.
Figure1.3 Possible future building design along Excelsior Boulevard.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 10
6 St. Louis Park Design Guidelines
Context and Conditions
Miracle Mile Zone near Park Nicollet Blvd.Excelsior and Grand Zone, at Natchez Ave Small scale development, set close to the street Ellipse Zone, NE of Huntington Ave
Figure1.4 Images of Excelsior Boulevard
Context and Conditions
Context
The study area exists largely as a narrow band of
properties along Excelsior Boulevard’s south side
between Quentin Avenue and France Avenue. In many
cases, the parcels are less than 150 feet deep and not
more than 54 feet wide, and in some cases, the parcels
are oddly shaped, making redevelopment difficult.
Development character varies among the parcels,
sometimes with buildings advancing near the sidewalk
along Excelsior Boulevard and at other times buildings
receding to the rear of a site with parking being
prominent and near the street.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 11
Context and Conditions7
Study Boundary
Figure1.5 Study area
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 12
Context and Conditions
8 St. Louis Park Design Guidelines
Figure1.7 Corridor context zones
Corridor Context
To understand the study area, one needs to consider
the entirety of the Excelsior Boulevard corridor. An early
dialog with the Task Force emphasized the study area
as one piece of the corridor’s fabric, with patterns that
stand apart from other stretches of the corridor. Broadly,
development along the corridor might be characterized
in four zones (see Figures 1.7 and 1.8).
The varying characters of development along Excelsior
Boulevard extend through decades of its evolution.
Perpetuating that character seems an appropriate
guide and a way of maintaining the sense of a varied
experience along Excelsior Boulevard, and recognizes the
way people in St. Louis Park have viewed the corridor for
just about as long. In framing guidelines, the underlying
character might be viewed as one of the baselines
influencing future character of development. In this way,
the scale and pattern of development in the study area
might evolve, but not in ways that might appear foreign
to Excelsior Boulevard.
Regulatory Context
Properties in the study area fall into three zoning
classifications. While the details of specific zoning
should rely on the city’s zoning ordinance, the general
requirements for each of the three zoning classifications
can be summarized in Figure 1.11.
For commercial properties in St. Louis Park, the city uses
a method of determining parking requirements based
on use. This is especially important on parcels within
the study area, where sites are small but the buildings
might accommodate a range of uses, each driving a
different demand for parking. This “registration of land
use” method assures that parking supporting an activity
on a parcel is determined by the use, not the zoning
classification. In doing this, a restaurant with a high
parking demand could not occur on a site where the
necessary parking could not be accommodated.
Land use was not a consideration in the study of the
south side of Excelsior Boulevard. The guidelines, from
the perspective of land use context, do not recommend
changes in land use or zoning. As a result, the patterns
of primarily commerical use along the boulevard
is perpetuated, as is the position of a few blocks of
residential use. It should be noted that the Task Force has
indicated it would not object to a reconsideration of the
residential land use, particularly related to diversity of
residential development in these few blocks.
Zone General Location General Character
Park Nicollet North side of corridor, TH 100 to Quentin
Ave
Large scale development,
set back from sidewalk
South side of corridor, Woodale Ave to
Quentin Ave
Large scale development,
set back from sidewalk
Large scale development,
set back from sidewalk
Small scale development, set near
sidewalk or set back from sidewalk
Moderate and small scale
development, set near sidewalk
Moderate scale development, set near
sidewalk or set back from sidewalk
North side of corridor, Quentin Ave to
Monterey Drive
South side of corridor, Quentin Ave to
France Ave
North side of corridor, Kipling Ave to
Hungtington Ave
North side of corridor, Hungtington Ave to
France Ave
Miracle Mile
Excelsior and Grand
Study Area
Ellipse
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 13
9 Corridor CharacterFigure1.8 Excelsior Boulevard corridor context zones
Development
Park Nicollet Zone
Excelsior and
Grand Zone
Ellipse Zone
Large scale, set
back from sidewalk
Large and small
scale, set close to
the street
Moderate and
small scale, set
close to the street
Moderate and small
scale, set close to
the street (north
side)
Small scale, set
close to the
street (south
side)
Miracle Mile
Zone Character
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 14
Context and Conditions
10 St. Louis Park Design Guidelines
Figure1.11 Zoning table
Current Zoning, Generally C-1 C-2 R-3Neighborhood Commercial General Commercial Two-family Residence
Purpose and Effect The purpose of this C-1 neighborhood
commercial district is to provide for low-
intensity, service-oriented commercial uses
for surrounding residential neighborhoods.
Limits will be placed on the type, size, and
intensity of commercial uses in this district
to ensure and protect compatibility with
adjacent residential areas.
3 stories or 35 ft
1.2
5 ft
15 ft abutting street, 0 ft or
match adjacent residential
20 ft
10 ft abutting alley
0 ft if under 35 ft and not adjacent
residential; 15 ft if adjacent
residential 1/2 building height
if height is 35 ft or greater
15 ft abutting street, 0 ft or
match residential if adjacent (plus
additional if taller than 35 ft)
15 ft abutting street, 7 ft and 5 ft
(single family) 9ft and 6ft (duplex)
na na 11 units per acre
5 ft 25 ft
25 ft
2.0 0.25
3 stories or 35 ft6 stories or 75 ft (certain conditions
allow for greater height)
The purposes of the C-2 general
commercial district are to:
(1) Allow the concentration of general
commercial development for convenience
of the public and mutually beneficial
relationship to each other in those areas
located away from residential areas
designated by the comprehensive plan;
(2) Provide space for community facilities
and institutions that appropriately may
be located in commercial areas;
(3) Provide adequate space to meet
the needs of modem commercial
development, including off-street
parking and truck loading areas;
(4) Minimize traffic congestion; and
(5) Carefully regulate the intensity of
commercial development as it refers to
both internal site factors and external
impacts.
The purpose of the R-3 two-family
residence district is to provide
appropriately located areas for one-family
and two-family dwelling units on parcels of
reasonable size; ensure adequate light, air,
privacy and open space for each dwelling
unit; provide institutional and community
services such as parks, schools, religious
facilities, and community centers
supportive of a residential area while
safeguarding its residential character;
protect residential properties from noise,
illumination, unsightliness, odors, dust,
dirt, smoke, vibration, heat, glare, high
traffic volumes and other objectionable
influences.
Height
Floor Area Ratio
Density
Yard, front
Yard, side
Yard, rear
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 15
11Current ZoningFigure1.12 Current residential and commercial zoning
Commercial
Corridor Focal
Intersections
Excelsior Blvd.
Streetscape
Neighborhood
Residential
Interface with
Neighborhood
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 16
Process and Schedule
12 St. Louis Park Design Guidelines
Planning Process
The process of defining guidelines for the South Side of
Excelsior Boulevard focused on two primary methods of
receiving input from the community: two neighborhood
meetings, the first of which occurred at the outset of the
planning process; and Task Force meetings that occurred
throughout the planning process.
Neighborhood Meetings
The first of two neighborhood meetings occurred at
the beginning of the planning process. At the meeting,
attendees worked in small groups to respond to a series
of questions and then shared the highlights of their work
with the larger assembled group. Input was varied, as
summarized on the following pages, but key concerns
and ideas focused on creating walkable and safe
experiences. At the meeting, the following goals floated
to the surface as being important to the development of
the south side of Excelsior Boulevard:
• Protecting neighborhood interests
• Drawing other cities to replicate our non-conforming
vision
• Creating human-scaled buildings that invite walkability
• Establishing a unified fence between commercial and
residential properties
• Recognizing that over a 20-year time horizon, anything
is possible
In one of the exercises, meeting participants were asked
to assess their sense of the potential for change for parcels
within the study area. While the groups recognized many
of the parameters involved in making change happen,
most suggested that nearly all the parcels in the study
area would eventually change. The notion of eventual
change became important in meetings with the Task
Force and in framing guidelines for parcels in the study
area.
A second neighborhood meeting occurred later in the
planning process and included a review of the process
and the directions that evolved through interactions
with the Task Force. General reaction to the proposed
guidelines was positive, with questions being addressed
to details of the guidelines and methods of eliminating
Figure1.13 Images from the first neighborhood meeting, March 19 2014.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 17
13Process and Schedulebillboards (which was not addressed during this
process, but is addressed by other sections of the city
ordinances).
During Neighborhood Meeting Two, participants raised
questions or offered comments related to:
• Allowed building heights: the guidelines reinforce
the underlying zoning, but allow some flexibility in
height if it can be demonstrated that a better design
can be achieved. For instance, a first floor height
greater than 12 or 14 feet may be desirable, but may
be limited for projects targeting three stories. The city
may determine, in this case, that a better design can be
achieved by allowing additional height (on the order
of a few feet, most likely). Additional height may also
be desired to better screen mechanical equipment
located on rooftops. It should be noted, however, that
the limited site area of most parcels would not likely
allow buildings approaching the maximum zoning
height.
• Billboards: billboards were not addressed by the
guidelines, but are controlled by other parts of the
city’s zoning ordinance.
• Parking: the underlying issue is one of quantity and
management. The city uses a registration of land
use methodology to control parking tied to the
activity within a building. To date, that method has
demonstrated good success in managing parking on
sites.
• Traffic : new development or investment might
increase traffic, but the incremental change would
have to be compared to a fully functional and occupied
(and zoning-compliant) use within the study area. It is
unlikely that significant additional square footage of
development could be achieved without major parcel
assembly, and even then the likely change in traffic
generation would be limited.
• Development: given the design guidelines,
participants were interested to know if developers
could do anything they want. In fact, a proposal for
development must adhere to existing zoning or
pursue a path to development using a planned unit
development approach, in which case the city and
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 18
Process and Schedule
14 St. Louis Park Design Guidelines
the developer would use these guidelines to direct
development appropriately.
• Pedestrian crossings: the design guidelines do not
change the character or function of the roadway or any
crossings of Excelsior Boulevard. The goal, however, is
to increase the pedestrian orientation of development
along the south side of the boulevard, so further study
may be required to ensure that increased pedestrian
movements are safely accommodated considering the
volumes of traffic on Excelsior Boulevard.
• Trash and deliveries: the guidelines suggest ways
of accommodating the more utilitarian functions of
development in ways that are integrated with the
design of the site and building. The nature of these
functions might be coordinated by property owners to
avoid conflicts with the use on the site—a strategy that
would be prudent for the best use of the site. Turning
movements were tested in demonstrations to ensure
large vehicles could be reasonably accommodated.
• Development focus: participants wondered if
development in the study area would be directed to
a local population or have a more regional orientation.
In fact, both are likely necessary for the success of the
corridor, but the process did not address factors of
market orientation.
• Local character: the orientation of the guidelines
toward Excelsior Boulevard character and local
business, where possible, was appreciated. There
needs to be incentives to stay for those businesses
already located on the boulevard or to invest here for
new businesses.
• Cross easements: the goal of a nearly continuous
parking area behind buildings is facilitated by the
use of cross easements for access. The nature of an
incremental evolution is recognized, so the ultimate
configuration of access and movement (and parking)
can only be achieved with time. In the model that
places parking behind buildings, easements for utilities
may also be necessary.
Neighborhood
Meeting 1
City Council
Chambers
March 19 April 22 May 6 May 27 June 3
Municipal
Service Center
Citizens Bank
Building
Citizens Bank
Building
Citizens Bank
Building
• Project introduction directed
to need, process, outcomes
• Issues definition
• Questions
• Solicitation for participation
on task force
• Project introduction focused
on task force role
• Neighborhood Meeting One
review
• Study area assessment
• Vision discussion
• Detailed examination of
issues
• Study area needs, priorities,
qualities
• Possibilities for change
• Guideline topics definition
• Guidelines investigations
(part 1)
• Guidelines investigations
(part 2)
• Cross check of investigations
Task Force
Meeting 1
Task Force
Meeting 2
Task Force
Meeting 3A
Task Force
Meeting 3B
Engagement and Meeting Schedule
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 19
15Process and ScheduleJune 24 September 16 November 10 December 9 TBD
Citizens Bank
Building
City Hall City Hall Citizens Bank
Building
City Hall
• Recommended guidelines
review
• Guidelines application to sites
• Presentation of findings to
date
• Solicitation of feedback
• Review of guidelines for
concurrence
• Recommendations for
adjustments
• Review of input from
Neighborhood Meeting Two
and City Council/Planning
Commission work session
Neighborhood
Meeting 2
Task Force
Meeting 4
Task Force
Meeting 5
City Council/
Planning
Commission
work session
Approval
Meetings
Task Force Meetings
Meetings of a Task Force composed of volunteer
stakeholders were organized as dialogs between
members, staff, and consultants. In each of the two-hour
meetings, the focus was on a guided discussion among
the various interests of represented by the Task Force.
Meeting Four (which focused on a discussion of draft
guidelines and actually occurred during two meetings)
resulted in an essential consensus on the character
of development in the study area, its orientation to
both Excelsior Boulevard and the neighborhood, and
accommodating necessary site functions. It’s probably
unfair to characterize consensus as unanimous
agreement because some members of the Task
Force were not present during the second session of
Meeting Four, but members present determined that
an incremental evolution of this part of the Excelsior
Boulevard corridor following the draft guidelines—with
amendments as they noted during their review—would
be appropriate.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 20
Goals, Themes and Directions
16 St. Louis Park Design Guidelines
Figure1.14 Images created by participants at the first neighborhood meeting.
Significant Directions
Several significant directions came out of these meetings:
• Placing buildings near the sidewalk at Excelsior
Boulevard, reinforcing the pedestrian realm and
better defining the sense of street edge
• Establishing a zone for parking generally behind
buildings with the potential for cross easements
to create continuous parking accessed from cross
streets and, in some locations, directly from Excelsior
Boulevard with parking located alongside buildings
• Creating separation from the neighborhood to limit
intrusion of light, noise, pollution, and people through
a continuous physical and landscaped barrier focused
on a ten foot wide zone at the south side of the
Excelsior Boulevard parcels
Development Pattern
Establishing guidelines for the south side of Excelsior
Boulevard is a process that involves more than offering
directions for individual parcels. In this process, several
key patterns were recognized for the study area—
patterns that apply broadly to all parcels:
• Patterns of land use are directed to underlying
zoning, with most of the corridor being commercial
in its orientation and the blocks between Inglewood
Avenue and Glenhurst Avenue being multi-family
residential;
• Reinforcement of the streetscape of Excelsior
Boulevard, particularly in ways that support an active
and more pedestrian public realm;
• Creation of highlights through enhanced site or
building development at key Excelsior Boulevard
thresholds at Quentin Avenue, Monterey Avenue, and
France Avenue;
• A definitive and continuous interface between the
parcels that comprise the study area and the single
family neighborhood to its south.
The guidelines for the south side of Excelsior Boulevard
build upon these basic patterns as a means of creating a
more integrated and holistic experience.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 21
Goals, Themes and Directions17
Heterogeneous....
A place of visible human activity...
Punctuated by unique highlights...
Integrated with the neighborhood...
Varied in form and pattern...
Connected at the public realm...
Walk-able, bike-able, and park-able...
Both “stay-at” and “go-to”...
Attractive, in all of its forms...
varied, mixed, diverse—in both
character and activity...like the
Boulevard has been and is today
where walking and biking gain equal
footing with cars on the Boulevard,
especially as connections are reinforced
with the neighborhood
through buildings or publicly-
implemented features, these highlights
mark the South Side and reinforce its
place as a part of the Boulevard
perhaps in some places more tightly
than in others, but wherever the
interface happens, it becomes a place
of value, not neglect
with some buildings pulled forward
to the Boulevard and others pushed
back—even on adjacent parcels, but
always presenting an active face on the
Boulevard and enduring
allowing the character of the
streetscape to be a significant part
of the experience, with private realm
spaces knitted to the streetscape to
support the Boulevard and its human
activity
where development doesn’t give up on
cars, but patterns aren’t dominated by
the infrastructure needed to support
them and the resulting experience is
comfortable and safe
having places focused on serving the
neighborhood and places that attract
others into the corridor, and between
introduced and indigenous activities/
uses
bringing people and business that
lend life, vitality, and activity to the
corridor, but also having the built and
natural forms result in patterns that are
endearing and enduring
Draft Guideline Creation: Themes
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 22
Design Guidelines Overview
1. BOULEVARD EXPERIENCE
2. PUBLIC REALM
3. NEIGHBORHOOD INTERFACE
18 St. Louis Park Design Guidelines
Therefore, the intention is for a Boulevard experience
that is mixed in activity, with appropriately scaled
and aggregated residential and commercial uses; and
that results in buildings and sites that are stylistically
harmonious, but not uniform.
Therefore, the public realm shall result in an
engaging site and building frontage—particularly
at commercial building faces or the spaces between
the sidewalk and the building face—to bring life
and energy to the street and sidewalk.
Therefore, the neighborhood interface shall be a
place of value—whether it’s a zone of integration
or separation, with both the new development and
the neighborhood benefiting from the immediate
relationship.
The south side of Excelsior Boulevard is not homogeneous
in its activity or experience, with a mix of commercial and
residential land uses and a variety of architectural styles
reflecting of both use and era of development. It’s a pattern
that has typified the Boulevard for decades, and one that
should be perpetuated as its South Side evolves.
The streetscape of Excelsior Boulevard establishes a
consistent image for the length of the corridor, particularly
considering the median. The public realm of the Boulevard
should be reinforced with uses and built forms that reinforce
the notion of visible human activity, creating a greater sense
of comfort and safety and reinforcing the notion of a walk-
able and bike-able place.
The immediate relationship between the Excelsior Boulevard
fronting properties and the neighborhood to the south
should be valued as a pattern, whether the two are integrated
of separated. The placement of buildings and the constructed
features have the potential of intruding upon neighbors, but
handled well, new development might enhance the livability
of the neighborhood.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 23
Design Guidelines Overview4. SITE DESIGN
5. BUILDING DESIGN
6. TRAFFIC, ACCESS and PARKING
19
Sites surrounding buildings vary in space, form and character
along the Boulevard, with some focused on accommodating
support functions and others offering some level of amenity,
mostly related to landscaping. In an evolution of the South
Side, the metamorphosis might more directly address how
people and human activity are accommodated as a part of
the site design.
Therefore, sites shall be developed with a strong
orientation to human scale and experience, even
in those components of the site directed to activity
supporting functions.
Buildings are the most prominent element of the corridor.
On the South Side, parcel size limits the ways buildings
can be placed, but the ways in which they are designed
can perpetuate the long-term patterns of a varied corridor.
Equally important, buildings should relate to the human
activities of the Boulevard—in scale, orientation, and detail.
Therefore, buildings shall be designed in ways that
are “read” as part of a human-scaled experience
of Excelsior Boulevard and that perpetuate their
presence on the Boulevard, accommodating a
range of uses over their lifetimes, allowing the
buildings to become ingrained in the patterns of the
Boulevard.
Therefore, the patterns of vehicle movement shall be
addressed in ways that support their presence but
limit their impact on human activity and adjacent
different uses, and that result in space on sites that
are designed for people, not merely for function.
While there may be a desire to better accommodate walking
and biking, cars will remain a fixture of the Boulevard. Their
presence and movement bridges between public and private
realms as much as any other corridor elements, so how they
leave the street and are accommodated on sites needs to be
a core piece of the design of the South Side.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 24
Design Guidelines
20 St. Louis Park Design Guidelines
Guidelines
The south side of Excelsior Boulevard is not homogeneous
in its activity or experience, with a mix of commercial
and residential land uses and a variety of architectural
styles reflecting of both use and era of development. It’s
a pattern that has typified the Boulevard for decades,
and one that should be perpetuated as its South Side
evolves.
Therefore, the intention is for a Boulevard
experience that is mixed in activity, with
appropriately scaled and aggregated
residential and commercial uses; and that
results in buildings and sites that are stylistically
harmonious, but not uniform.
1. BOULEVARD EXPERIENCE
Development patterns shall perpetuate the mix of uses by adhering
to current zoning and land use guidance to create a corridor that is
primarily commercial in orientation, with residential uses separating
commercial activities into nodes focused near France Avenue and
between Quentin Avenue and Inglewood Avenue. These guidelines
are intended to promote vitality in the businesses that line Excelsior
Boulevard, in buildings that form a distinct transition between the
boulevard and the neighborhood.
These guidelines shall be used to encourage consistent investment
in properties, either by reinvestment or through redevelopment, that
assures property owners, business owners and neighbors of the long-
term character of development, but not in ways that limit creativity or
force directions that cannot be economically supported.
To reinforce the experience of Excelsior Boulevard, development
shall encourage street level human activity, whether the activity is
commercial or residential in orientation. For commercial parcels,
in particular, development shall provide inviting spaces that bring
human activity near the sidewalk at Excelsior Boulevard.
While the corridor is a major vehicle corridor, the public realm and
development shall accommodate those movements that do not rely
on personal vehicles.
Figure1.15 Typical block layout showing areas affected by boulevard
experience design guidelines.
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 25
Boulevard Experience21Boulevard Experience1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5 1.4, 1.5, 1.6 1.4, 1.5
Several locations along Excelsior Boulevard define “gateways” to the
corridor and merit special attention in site and building design. In
particular, special site or building features (including, but not limited
to, public art, articulation of building elements to emphasize publicly-
oriented building elements, special landscape features or treatments,
and signage, if approved by the city) are encouraged at Excelsior
Boulevard’s intersections with Quentin Avenue, Monterey Avenue,
and France Avenue.
The City of St. Louis Park has a keen orientation to sustainability,
even to the degree that it is becoming a keystone quality of the
community. The city’s orientation to sustainability shall be reflected
in development on Excelsior Boulevard’s south side in ways that are
measurable and demonstrate significant improvements in energy and
water use and stormwater management intersections with Quentin
Avenue, Monterey Avenue, and France Avenue.
Figure1.16 Images showing elements of the boulevard experience.
1.5
1.6
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 26
Design Guidelines
22 St. Louis Park Design Guidelines
The streetscape of Excelsior Boulevard establishes
a consistent image for the length of the corridor,
particularly considering the median. The public realm of
the Boulevard should be reinforced with uses and built
forms that reinforce the notion of visible human activity,
creating a greater sense of comfort and safety and
reinforcing the notion of a walk-able and bike-able place.
Therefore, the public realm shall result in
an engaging site and building frontage—
particularly at commercial building faces or the
spaces between the sidewalk and the building
face—to bring life and energy to the street and
sidewalk.
The character of streetscape elements from Excelsior Boulevard shall
be extended into publicly accessible private spaces along the corridor
(at either Excelsior Boulevard or crossing streets) to establish the sense
of a continuous public realm and a safe, inviting, walking-focused
public realm outside of the roadway.
At the point of transition to the neighborhood, there shall be a clear
demarcation of the neighborhood “entry” created within the public
realm and focused on areas of the right-of-way outside of the curbs.
Where transit facilities exist along the corridor, the design of sites shall
be organized to support transit with safe, convenient, and protected
amenities for transit users. To the extent possible, features supporting
transit shall be incorporated into the design of a site and/or building.
Sidewalks along Excelsior Boulevard shall be established at not less
than 10 feet wide, with at least six feet clear of obstructions along the
length of any property.
The presence of on-street parking shall be incorporated into the
patterns of the public realm and the overall site design by providing
safe and accessible passage for those parked in on-street spaces. In
accordance with city policies, on-street spaces along the frontage of
a property may be counted as a part of the parking supply for that
parcel.
Guidelines
Figure1.17 Typical block layout showing areas affected by public realm
guidelines.
2. PUBLIC REALM
2.1 2.4
2.5
2.2
2.3
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 27
23Public Realm2.3
2.1, 2.4, 2.5
2.4 2.5
Figure1.18 Images showing elements of the public realm.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 28
The immediate relationship between the Excelsior
Boulevard fronting properties and the neighborhood
to the south should be valued as a pattern, whether
the two are integrated of separated. The placement
of buildings and the constructed features have the
potential of intruding upon neighbors, but handled well,
new development might enhance the livability of the
neighborhood.
Therefore, the neighborhood interface shall
be a place of value—whether it’s a zone of
integration or separation, with both the new
development and the neighborhood benefiting
from the immediate relationship.
Design Guidelines
With the goal of efficiency in use of the site while protecting adjacent
properties, sites shall be organized and buildings placed to minimize
the intrusion of light, noise, activity, and other negative impacts of
commercial development into neighboring residential properties.
Because the preferred location for parking supporting a building’s
use is behind the building and nearest the residential neighborhood,
the design of the separation must address the impacts of vehicles
using the parking areas and practices to manage the parking area
when the building is not active.
To further define the boundary between commercial and residential
properties, separation shall prevent easy access to it by pedestrians.
Service functions for buildings may occur in the zone nearest the
residential neighborhoods. To limit the impacts of these activities,
regular services shall be directed to times that limit impacts on
neighbors.
24 St. Louis Park Design Guidelines
Guidelines
Figure1.19 Typical block layout showing area affected by neighborhood
interface design guidelines.
3. NEIGHBORHOOD INTERFACE
3.2
3.1 3.3
3.4
3.5
To establish continuity along the interface with and separation
from the residential properties to the south, a boundary zone shall
be created of not less than 8 feet in width and continuous along
the entirety of the Excelsior Boulevard parcel using materials and
treatments that are enduring and create value for properties on both
sides of the boundary. The goals of minimizing intrusions (see 3.1)
from commercial properties past the boundary area a primary goal.
Should the separation result in yard space on the residential side, that
space shall be maintained perpetually by the Excelsior Boulevard use.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 29
3.2, 3.4 3.1, 3.2, 3.4
3.1, 3.2, 3.4
3.2, 3.4
25Neighborhood InterfaceFigure1.20 Images showing possible neighborhood interface treatments.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 30
Design Guidelines
26 St. Louis Park Design Guidelines
Sites surrounding buildings vary in space, form and
character along the Boulevard, with some focused on
accommodating support functions and others offering
some level of amenity, mostly related to landscaping.
In an evolution of the South Side, the metamorphosis
might more directly address how people and human
activity are accommodated as a part of the site design.
Therefore, sites shall be developed with a strong
orientation to human scale and experience,
even in those components of the site directed to
activity supporting functions.
As a whole, sites shall be designed to support the notion of an
Excelsior Boulevard corridor oriented to human-scaled experiences,
to maximizing “green” space on sites and the feeling of a “green”
corridor, screening of functional site elements so that human activities
and spaces for visible human activity on sites are prominent, and to
placing buildings where they best reinforce activity and an orientation
to Excelsior Boulevard.
To facilitate coherent and efficient patterns on sites, ease of function,
consistency in addressing Excelsior Boulevard and the neighbors to
the south, and facilitate opportunities for sharing functional areas,
parking areas shall be located continuously along the rear portion of
each site or shall provide for connections between parcels along this
portion of each site. Parcels at ends of blocks must provide access at
that location. Parked cars shall be screened from views from adjacent
residential sites through the use of plantings or permanent screening.
Sites may be accessed from Excelsior Boulevard directly, provided the
access point considers a point of access shared with the adjacent parcel.
In the event the patterns of site development use an access point on
Excelsior Boulevard, the site plan shall still provide a connection to
parking located behind buildings on at least one side of the site.
To establish continuity along the public realm and to screen parking
from public view, parking areas along Excelsior Boulevard and
any crossing streets shall be screened by architectural features or
plantings. Architectural features, if used, shall be designed to reflect
the patterns and materials of the primary building on the parcel;
plantings, if used, shall be composed of combinations of evergreen
and deciduous shrubs and perennials that allow for interest in all
seasons. Plantings shall include over-story trees to provide shade
over the public sidewalk and a sense of continuity in a plane generally
aligning with the street-facing façade of the building.
Guidelines
Figure1.21 Typical block layout showing areas affected by site design
guidelines.
4. SITE DESIGN
4.4
4.34.1
4.2
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 31
27Site Design4.1 4.1 4.1 4.4
Development density for parcels shall be guided by existing city
controls, although limited site areas for unaggregated parcels will
naturally limit development based on a lack of available space for
parking, and unless methods of accommodating parking other than
surface parking are used, city controls will limit density on even
aggregated parcels.
Drive-up windows or drive-through facilities are discouraged due to
limited site area for stacking based on the smaller parcel sizes, unless
it can be clearly demonstrated that those facilities do not impede
the creation of or intrude upon pedestrian zones or create negative
impacts on nearby residential parcels.
Service areas (including trash and recycling enclosures,
loading areas, and other building support functions) that
are within the building or screened with materials that
extend from the building are preferred. Access to any
service area must occur from within the parcel and shall
be located in ways that limit the maneuvering necessary
for access by any service vehicle. Service areas separated
from buildings shall be screened by permanent materials
that substantively match the materials, patterns, and
details used in the building, with landscaping that is an
extension of the landscape patterns of the site. The service
area shall be located so that no direct views into a service
area occurs from a public street or from a walkway serving
the primary building entry.
4.5 4.7
4.6
Figure1.22 Images showing possible site design treatments.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 32
Design Guidelines
28 St. Louis Park Design Guidelines
Walkways between a public sidewalk and the primary building
entry shall highlight the path to the primary building entry through
architectural features, landscaping, and lighting. Walkways that are
covered or partially covered by architectural features are encouraged,
provided those features are designed consistent with the materials
and patterns of the building.
A walkway that crosses a vehicular path or parking area shall extend
the sidewalk materials through the vehicular path or parking area.
Lighting used on sites shall be consistent in color and designed to
prevent trespass of illumination onto adjacent sites. To the extent
practicable, lighting shall be integrated with the design of buildings.
Lighting sources shall not be visible.
4.11 Any landscape improvements proposed as a part of a plan
for development shall become the requirement for planted
improvements. Any plantings that die must be replaced, unless is can
be demonstrated that the growth of other plants fulfill the purpose of
the originally planned and planted materials.
4.4, 4.9 4.9 4.1, 4.8
Figure1.23 Images showing possible site design treatments.
4.10
4.9
4.8
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 33
29Site Design4.2
Figure1.24 Continuous, connected parking lots behind buildings.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 34
Design Guidelines
30 St. Louis Park Design Guidelines
Buildings are the most prominent element of the
corridor. On the South Side, parcel size limits the ways
buildings can be placed, but the ways in which they
are designed can perpetuate the long-term patterns of
a varied corridor. Equally important, buildings should
relate to the human activities of the Boulevard—in scale,
orientation, and detail.
Therefore, buildings shall be designed in ways that
are “read” as part of a human-scaled experience
of Excelsior Boulevard and that perpetuate their
presence on the Boulevard, accommodating a
range of uses over their lifetimes, allowing the
buildings to become ingrained in the patterns of
the Boulevard.
The mass of a building on a site shall occur on a parcel in ways that
reinforce the public realm as a mixed mode, varied, and human-
scaled corridor while protecting residential neighbors, with the
primary mass of the building pulled “forward” on a parcel.
Current zoning ordinances limit building heights, but flexibility
in overall height may be permitted if the design demonstrates the
benefits to the experience of the corridor or if the building or site
includes features benefiting the community.
The design of buildings shall address all sides of the structure in
terms of designed character, materials, fenestration, and details, with
ornament and signage that is integral to the overall building design.
Buildings shall be placed to reinforce the pedestrian orientation of
Excelsior Boulevard with most of their street-facing façade occurring
at or near the front property line.
Building materials and details shall be holistic in design (not add-
ons or used solely for the purpose of ornament) and not materials
that are representations of other materials (such as manufactured
stone or false brick). Materials shall be durable and constructed
with a sense of human craft. Termination of materials or changes in
materials across a façade shall occur in ways that are integral to the
material used; in particular, a change in materials at exterior corners is
discouraged. Details of construction and materials shall be scaled to
human experiences, particularly at street level facades along Excelsior
Boulevard.
Building taller than two stories shall have the upper floors set back
from street frontages at least 10 feet as a means of maintaining a
more human-scaled experience along Excelsior Boulevard.
5.6
5.1
5.3
5.4
5.5
5.2
Guidelines Figure1.25 Typical block layout showing areas affected by building design
guidelines.
5. BUILDING DESIGN
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 35
31Building Design5.1, 5.3, 5.4, 5.6 5.1, 5.3, 5.4, 5.7, 5.8, 5.11, 5.12 5.1, 5.3, 5.4, 5.6, 5.7, 5.8, 5.9, 5.11, 5.12
5.7
5.8
Walls oriented to streets shall be articulated with doors and windows
to encourage interaction between the public sidewalk and the interior
of commercial street level uses. No section of wall longer than 24
feet shall be void of windows or doors. A door oriented to Excelsior
Boulevard shall remain accessible during typical business hours.
Windows at street level shall be transparent and be sufficient in extent
to highlight a sense of human activity in the building at each level of
the building.
Figure1.26 Images showing possible building types and configurations.
5.9 For residential buildings, features that highlight human activity—
or the sense of human activity, such as terraces, balconies, or other
outdoor private or common spaces, shall be a part of the design of
residential buildings.
Vehicle entry doors shall not be oriented to Excelsior Boulevard.5.10
The design of the building shall highlight the building entry
through architectural elements, lighting, landscape elements, or
other features that call attention to the entry, and the building
entry shall always be oriented to and clearly visible from Excelsior
Boulevard. Other building entries may be highlighted, but shall
not take precedence over an entry oriented to Excelsior Boulevard.
A parcel with frontage on two streets may utilize a corner entry
that gives equal prominence to Excelsior Boulevard and the
intersecting street. At entries, the door itself shall be designed to
be the focal of the entry experience.
5.11
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 36
Design Guidelines
32 St. Louis Park Design Guidelines
Lighting used as a part of the building shall be consistent with the
color of lighting used on sites. Lighting on buildings shall be designed
to illuminate features of the building or site spaces, but not to
indiscriminately spread illumination across building facades or sites.
Signage shall be designed to be integral to the building, shall not
obscure architectural features or elements, and shall be limited to
street level facades. Signs that project over sidewalks are encouraged.
While these guidelines encourage a balance between the vehicle-
dominated environment of the roadway and the pedestrian nature
of Excelsior Boulevard’s sidewalk areas, signage is encouraged to be
scaled to the experience of the pedestrian.
5.13
5.12
5.7, 5.8, 5.12 5.7, 5.8, 5.12 5.7, 5.8, 5.11, 5.12 5.13
Figure1.27 Images showing possible building types and configurations.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 37
33Building DesignFigure1.28 Possible building configuration.
5.1, 5.3, 5.4, 5.6, 5.7, 5.8, 5.11, 5.12
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 38
While there may be a desire to better accommodate
walking and biking, cars will remain a fixture of the
Boulevard. Their presence and movement bridges
between public and private realms as much as any other
corridor elements, so how they leave the street and are
accommodated on sites needs to be a core piece of the
design of the South Side.
Adequate parking and convenient access is necessary to
support redevelopment or reinvestment in parcels, but
the focus on development on sites should be directed
to buildings and site spaces, not parking. Because of the
incremental nature of development and redevelopment
activities on the south side of Excelsior Boulevard,
guidance for three scenarios for parking are described:
• Redevelopment of an individual parcel
• Concurrent redevelopment of adjacent parcels
under separate ownership
• Assembly of several adjacent parcels into a larger
redevelopment site
Therefore, the patterns of vehicle movement shall
be addressed in ways that support their presence
but limit their impact on human activity and
adjacent different uses, and that result in space
on sites that are designed for people, not merely
for function.
Design Guidelines
34 St. Louis Park Design Guidelines
6.1 In general, parking shall be organized to provide adequate on-site
parking to minimize the need for on-street parking and impacts on
adjacent neighborhoods. Shared parking is encouraged between
parcels on the south side of Excelsior Boulevard between Quentin
Avenue and France Avenue. Consistent with the north side, on-
street parking bays on the south side of Excelsior Boulevard may be
permitted. Additional analysis and approval by Hennepin County will
be required to determine their location, need, and justification.
6.2 Parking supply in excess of city minimum standards shall be
discouraged, however parking that addresses the potential range of
activities in a building must be considered.
Guidelines
Figure1.29 Typical block layout showing areas affected by traffic, access
and parking design guidelines.
6. TRAFFIC, ACCESS and PARKING
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 39
35Traffic, Access and Parking6.3, 6.66.1, 6.6 6.3
6.3 Surface parking areas shall be located behind buildings to the
extent practicable to encourage continuity of building frontages
along Excelsior Boulevard. If not possible, the parking area should
be located on the side of the building. Driveways and drive aisles
shall be minimized in width and provide good visibility of pedestrians
from vehicles using the driveway.
6.4 For end parcels located adjacent to a street crossing Excelsior
Boulevard, access to the parking areas should be located on the
crossing street in order to perpetuate and enhance pedestrian
activity along the Excelsior Boulevard sidewalk.
Access to and from Excelsior Boulevard should be eliminated or
consolidated wherever possible. At a minimum, Hennepin County
will allow limited access for each parcel and may limit access to no
net increase along the corridor. For access from Excelsior Boulevard,
existing median breaks for left turn movements will be allowed
at their current locations. Additional median breaks on Excelsior
Boulevard will not be allowed.
Large surface parking lots are discouraged. Where necessary to
support development, they should be broken up with landscape
areas to provide visual relief and locations for trees to significantly
shade hard surfaces, incorporate green infrastructure to the extent
practicable to assist in stormwater management, and introduce other
features that humanize the parking experience on sites.
6.6
6.5
Figure1.30 Images showing possible traffic, access and parking configurations.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 40
Design Guidelines
36 St. Louis Park Design Guidelines
6.9 For the redevelopment of two adjacent parcels under separate
ownership where the redevelopment is concurrent, the following
guidelines apply:
• 6.9.1 For end parcels located adjacent to a secondary street,
access to the parking areas should be located on the secondary
street, not along Excelsior Boulevard. An internal drive aisle behind
the buildings should connect the two parcels by establishing cross
easements, allowing two-way traffic and access to surface parking.
• 6.9.2 For mid-block parcels, shared use of an internal drive aisle
to surface parking areas located behind (preferred) or alongside the
buildings should be considered by establishing cross easements
among property owners.
6.7
Figure1.31 Images showing possible traffic, access and parking configurations.
6.8 For the redevelopment of an individual parcel, the following
guidelines apply:
• 6.8.1 For end parcels located adjacent to a secondary street, access
to the parking areas should be located on the secondary street,
not along Excelsior Boulevard.
• 6.8.2 For mid-block parcels, shared use of an internal drive aisle to
surface parking areas behind (preferred) or alongside the buildings
should be considered by establishing cross easements among
property owners, if possible.
• 6.8.3 For mid-block parcels, the internal drive aisle to surface
parking areas located behind (preferred) or alongside the buildings
should be designed using a minimum side yard setback. This
would allow the opportunity for an adjacent parcel (redeveloping
at a later date) to share the internal drive aisle by establishing cross
easements among property owners.
6.7 Parking for bicycles and non-traditional vehicles should be
provided on sites in visible and accessible locations, with amenities
that encourage their use.
6.1, 6.3
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 41
37Traffic, Access and Parking6.10 For the redevelopment of assembled parcels, the following
guidelines apply:
• 6.10.1 If feasible, structured parking should be located within the
building massing, below grade or in portions of the building not
facing onto public streets.
• 6.10.2 For end parcels located adjacent to a secondary street,
access to the parking structures or surface parking should be
located on the secondary street, not along Excelsior Boulevard. An
internal drive aisle behind the buildings should traverse multiple
parcels by establishing cross easements, allowing two-way traffic
and access to surface parking.
• 6.10.3 For mid-block parcels, shared use of an internal drive aisle
to surface parking areas behind the buildings should be considered
by establishing cross easements among property owners.
6.11 The allowed development densities essentially limit any increase in
traffic resulting from redevelopment of parcels on the south side of
Excelsior Boulevard. As parcels redevelop, impacts on traffic may
require study depending on the proposed land use type, size, and
density assumptions.
6.1, 6.3, 6.8.1, 6.9.1, 6.10.2 6.10.1
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 42
Considerations for Code Revisions
38 St. Louis Park Design Guidelines
As a part of the definition of guidelines, the width of
drive aisles in other communities was researched. It is
apparent from the investigation that 22 feet for drive
aisles is workable, and that given the predominately
limited parcel depth, even three feet (the difference
between the city’s current standard for drive aisle width
and the width proposed in these guidelines) may have
a considerable and positive impact on development of
the sites and aligning with the goals for the corridor.
The guidelines advocate for flexibility in overall building
height if a better building design could be achieved.
Whether additional height is necessary for first floor
height, additional parapet height to screen rooftop
mechanical units, or some other feature of the building
that affects height, the city’s current effort to consider
form-based codes might offer better guidance for
overall building height than can be achieved in these
guidelines or through the city’s current building height
standards.
Considerations for code revisions
The design guidelines are not a mandate for change,
but certain elements may merit further consideration
for modifications to zoning. While zoning ordinance
changes are a different process, those elements that
might be studied are included in the following table.
Elements Considerations
Drive aisle width
Building height
Figure1.32 Table of code revisions to be considered.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 43
39Considerations for Code RevisionsIn demonstrations performed as a verification of the
guidelines, a parking standard aligned with current
zoning was used as a key parameter. A ratio of 4.0 spaces
per 1,000 square feet is a fairly common standard for
commercial uses (not including restaurant-type uses), in
the future the ratio might seem too high, particularly for a
corridor that might be evolving to better serve uses who
are pedestrians or bicyclists. Two features of the city’s
current zoning might become important in a change:
the ability for a site’s parking supply to include adjacent
street parking and the city’s practice of registering land
use to define necessary parking.
Current zoning establishes a greater setback at sideyards
adjacent to street, but the guidelines encourage
advancing buildings on sites to create greater interaction
with public sidewalks. Maintaining the current
requirement might be at odds with other goals for the
corridor as discussed in these guidelines, and to the
extent that other considerations for building placement
near intersections (sight distance triangle requirements,
for instance), the sideyard setback for street frontages
might be modified to reduce the setback.
One of the keystone elements of the guidelines is
establishing a rear yard that allows for separation
consistently along the boundary, creating a separation
of eight feet that allows for isolation between uses, and
when coupled with the reduction in drive aisle width, has
a minimal effect on developable area of the parcel.
Elements Considerations
Parking quantity
Sideyard setback
Required rear yard
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 44
Demonstrations
75'150'300'
40 St. Louis Park Design Guidelines
Demonstrations
As a means of validating the design guidelines,
demonstrations of development capacity were prepared
for several parcels, including some with relatively small
footprints. The demonstrations are not intended to be a
site plan or an actual design, and they are not intended
to serve as an economic model; no projections of value
or cost of development were considered. They function
primarily as a means of testing the potential of various
sites to accommodate development and parking in a
proper balance when the guidelines are applied.
The demonstrations used setbacks as described in the
guidelines, including the separation zone between
the parcel and the adjacent residential use, and the
configuration of parking areas behind buildings as
key elements of the “test.” Parking at a ratio of at least
4.0 spaces per 1,000 square feet was also a primary
parameter.
The demonstrations suggest that new development
following the guidelines is possible on each of the ten
parcels tested. With refinements, it may be possible to
increase the amount of development on each parcel,
or to create a different configuration of building to
site, or to achieve a parking ratio closer to 4.0 spaces
per 1,000 square feet. All of those are worthy design
exercises once a developer can frame a site-specific
development program and identify a targeted use. For
now, the demonstrations serve as a way of testing the
capacity of the parcels to accommodate development
following the guidelines, and, for the instances studied,
there is sufficient evidence to conclude the guidelines
are practicable for redevelopment.
4900 Block
4700-4800 Block
4500-4600 Block
4400 Block
4300-3700 Block
4200 Block
3600-4100 Block
3900 Block
3500-3600 Block
Excelsior Blvd.Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 45
41Demonstrations4911
4907
4901
Figure1.33 Potential layout for the 4900 block - Excelsior Blvd view.Figure1.34 Potential layout for the 4900 block - rear of development view.
Figure1.35 Potential layout for the 4900 block.
4900 Block 4911 Excelsior
Blvd.
4907 Excelsior
Blvd.
4901 Excelsior
Blvd.
Site area 8368 sf 5850 sf 5850 sf
Proposed building footprint 2105 sf 1437 sf 1757 sf
Parking provided 8 on site
3 on street
11 total
10 on site
2 on street
12 total
5 on site
4 on street
9 total
Footprint area 2105 sf 1437 sf 1757 sf
Second floor area — 1437 sf —
Total floor area 2105 sf 2874 sf 1757 sf
FAR 0.25 0.25 0.30
Parking ratio 5.23
spaces/1000 sf
4.18
spaces/1000 sf
5.12
spaces/1000 sf
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 46
Demonstrations
42 St. Louis Park Design Guidelines
4700-4800 Block 4825 Excelsior
Blvd.
4811 Excelsior
Blvd.
4801 Excelsior
Blvd.
4725 Excelsior
Blvd.
4701 Excelsior
Blvd.
Site area 11919 sf 11825 sf 12003 sf 26580 sf 20000 sf
Proposed building footprint 4025 sf 2738 sf 2738 sf 8193 sf 5128 sf
Parking provided 20 on site
3 on street
23 total
16 on site
3 on street
19 total
16 on site
3 on street
19 total
50 on site
8 on street
58 total
38 on site
5 on street
43 total
Footprint area 4025 sf 2738 sf 2738 sf 8193 sf 5128 sf
Second floor area 1464 sf 1825 sf 1817 sf 6128 sf 5128 sf
Total floor area 5489 sf 4563 sf 4555 sf 14321 sf 10256 sf
FAR 0.46 0.39 0.38 0.54 0.51
Parking ratio 4.19
spaces/1000 sf
4.16
spaces/1000 sf
4.17
spaces/1000 sf
4.05
spaces/1000 sf
4.19
spaces/1000 sf
Figure1.36 Potential layout for the 4700-4800 block - Excelsior Blvd view.Figure1.37 Potential layout for the 4700-4800 block - rear of development view.
Figure1.38 Potential layout for the 4700-4800 block.
4825
4811
4801
4725
4701
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 47
43Demonstrations4500-4600 Block 4637 Excelsior
Blvd.
4617 Excelsior
Blvd.
4615 Excelsior
Blvd.
4611 Excelsior
Blvd.
4601 Excelsior
Blvd.
4509 Excelsior
Blvd.
4501 Excelsior
Blvd.
Site area 11800 sf 11800 sf 9325 sf 12075 sf 24747 sf 19793 sf 12171 sf
Proposed building footprint 3812 sf 2705 sf 2860 sf 3446 sf 6231 sf 5483 sf 4054 sf
Parking provided 15 on site
3 on street
18 total
20 on site
3 on street
23 total
10 on site
2 on street
12 total
21 on site
3 on street
24 total
40 on site
7 on street
47 total
28 on site
5 on street
33 total
16 on site
3 on street
19 total
Footprint area 3812 sf 2705 sf 2860 sf 3446 sf 6231 sf 5483 sf 4054 sf
Second floor area — 2705 sf — 2320 sf 5377 sf 2709 sf —
Total floor area 3812 sf 5410 sf 2860 sf 5766 sf 11608 sf 8192 sf 4054 sf
FAR 0.32 0.23 0.31 0.29 0.25 0.28 0.33
Parking ratio 4.72
spaces/1000 sf
4.25
spaces/1000 sf
4.20
spaces/1000 sf
4.16
spaces/1000 sf
4.05
spaces/1000 sf
4.03
spaces/1000 sf
4.69
spaces/1000 sf
Figure1.39 Potential layout for the 4500-4600 block.
Figure1.40 Potential layout for the 4500-4600 block - Excelsior Blvd view.
Figure1.41 Potential layout for the 4500-4600 block - rear of development view.
46174637 4615 4611 4601 4509 4501
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 48
Demonstrations
44 St. Louis Park Design Guidelines
4400 Block 4419 Excelsior
Blvd.
4415 Excelsior
Blvd.
4409 Excelsior
Blvd.
Site area 20163 sf 9191 sf 11066 sf
Proposed building footprint 5575 sf 2309 sf 2539 sf
Parking provided 23 on site
4 on street
27 total
8 on site
3 on street
11 total
15 on site
3 on street
18 total
Footprint area 5575 sf 2309 sf 2539 sf
Second floor area ——1671 sf
Total floor area 5575 sf 2309 sf 4210sf
FAR 0.28 0.25 0.38
Parking ratio 4.84
spaces/1000 sf
4.76
spaces/1000 sf
4.28
spaces/1000 sf
Figure1.43 Potential layout for the 4400 block - Excelsior Blvd view.Figure1.44 Potential layout for the 4400 block - rear of development view.
Figure1.45 Potential layout for the 4400 block.
4419
4415
4409
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 49
45Demonstrations4300-3700 Block 3757 Excelsior
Blvd.
4331 Excelsior
Blvd.
4321 Excelsior
Blvd.
4301 Excelsior
Blvd.
Site area 12228 sf 15872 sf 11809 sf 19551 sf
Proposed building footprint 2549 sf 3126 sf 4260 sf 4960 sf
Parking provided 18 on site
1 on street
19 total
24 on site
2 on street
26 total
17 on site
2 on street
19 total
20 on site
7 on street
27 total
Footprint area 2549 sf 3126 sf 4260 sf 4960 sf
Second floor area 1823 sf 2352 sf — 1535 sf
Total floor area 4372 sf 5478 sf 4260 sf 6495 sf
FAR 0.36 0.35 0.36 0.33
Parking ratio 4.35
spaces/1000 sf
4.75
spaces/1000 sf
4.46
spaces/1000 sf
4.16
spaces/1000 sf
Figure1.46 Potential layout for the 4300-3700 block - Excelsior Blvd view.Figure1.47 Potential layout for the 4300-3700 block - rear of development view.
Figure1.48 Potential layout for the 4300-3700 block.
3757
4331
4321
4301
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 50
Demonstrations
46 St. Louis Park Design Guidelines
4200 Block 4245 Excelsior Blvd. 4201 Excelsior Blvd.
Site area 18025 sf 31747 sf
Proposed building footprint 6347 sf 7649 sf
Parking provided 24 on site
2 on street
26 total
37 on site
7 on street
44 total
Footprint area 6347 sf 7649 sf
Second floor area —3192 sf
Total floor area 6347 sf 10841 sf
FAR 0.35 0.34
Parking ratio 4.10
spaces/1000 sf
4.06
spaces/1000 sf
Figure1.50 Potential layout for the 4200 block - Excelsior Blvd view.Figure1.51 Potential layout for the 4200 block - rear of development view.
Figure1.52 Potential layout for the 4200 block.
4245
4201
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 51
47DemonstrationsFigure1.53 Potential layout for the 3600-4100 block - Excelsior Blvd view.Figure1.54 Potential layout for the 3600-4100 block - rear of development view.
Figure1.55 Potential layout for the 3600-4100 block.
3600-4100 Block 4143 Excelsior Blvd. 4131 Excelsior Blvd.4121Excelsior Blvd.4115 Excelsior Blvd.3600 Excelsior Blvd.
Site area 9832 sf 9846 sf 8790 sf 9003 sf 14523 sf
Proposed building footprint 3125 sf 3128 sf 2751 sf 2796 sf 4473 sf
Parking provided 16 on site
2.5 on street
18.5 total
16 on site
3.5 on street
19.5 total
14 on site
3 on street
17 total
16 on site
3 on street
19 total
21 on site
4 on street
25 total
Footprint area 3125 sf 3128 sf 2751 sf 2796 sf 4473 sf
Second floor area 1480 sf 1564 sf 1375 sf 1942 sf 1667 sf
Total floor area 4605 sf 4692 sf 4126 sf 4738 sf 6140 sf
FAR 0.47 0.48 0.47 0.53 0.42
Parking ratio 4.02
spaces/1000 sf
4.16
spaces/1000 sf
4.12
spaces/1000 sf
4.01
spaces/1000 sf
4.07
spaces/1000 sf
4143
4131
4121
4115
3600
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 52
Demonstrations
48 St. Louis Park Design Guidelines
3500-3600 Block 3601 Excelsior
Blvd.
4031 Excelsior
Blvd.
4015 Excelsior
Blvd.
4011 Excelsior
Blvd.
3500 Excelsior
Blvd.
Site area 14655 sf 20634 sf 8033 sf 8169 sf 8834 sf
Proposed building footprint 3965 sf 4079 sf 2427 sf 2524 sf 2951 sf
Parking provided 23 on site
3 on street
26 total
33 on site
5 on street
38 total
13 on site
3 on street
16 total
14 on site
2 on street
16 total
13 on site
2 on street
15 total
Footprint area 3965 sf 4079 sf 2427 sf 2524 sf 2951 sf
Second floor area 2350 sf 4079 sf 1358 sf 1332 sf 732 sf
Total floor area 6315 sf 8158 sf 3785 sf 3856 sf 3683 sf
FAR 0.43 0.40 0.47 0.47 0.42
Parking ratio 4.12
spaces/1000 sf
4.66
spaces/1000 sf
4.23
spaces/1000 sf
4.15
spaces/1000 sf
4.07
spaces/1000 sf
3601
4031
4015
4011
3500
Figure1.56 Potential layout for the 3500-3600 block - Excelsior Blvd view.Figure1.57 Potential layout for the 3500-3600 block - rear of development view.
Figure1.58 Potential layout for the 3500-3600 block.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 53
49Demonstrations3900 Block 3947 Excelsior Blvd. 3939 Excelsior Blvd.3929 Excelsior Blvd.*3921 Excelsior Blvd.3901 Excelsior Blvd.
Site area 26542 sf 15816 sf 567 sf 16309 sf 11261 sf
Proposed building footprint 4405 sf 5891 sf —3338 sf 2987 sf
Parking provided 37 on site
4 on street
41 total
36 on site
4 on street
40 total
—
23 on site
4 on street
27 total
10 on site
2 on street
12 total
Footprint area 4405 sf 5891 sf —3338 sf 2987 sf
Second floor area 4405 sf 3968 sf —3338 sf —
Total floor area 8810 sf 9859 sf —6676 sf 2987 sf
FAR 0.33 0.62 —0.41 0.27
Parking ratio 4.65
spaces/1000 sf
4.06
spaces/1000 sf —4.04
spaces/1000 sf
4.02
spaces/1000 sf
* City bus shelter
3947
3939
3929
3921
3901
Figure1.59 Potential layout for the 3900 block - Excelsior Blvd view.Figure1.60 Potential layout for the 3900 block - rear of development view.
Figure1.61 Potential layout for the 3900 block.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 5)
Title: Zoning Ordinance Amendments Pertaining to the South Side of Excelsior Design Guidelines Study Page 54
Meeting: Study Session
Meeting Date: April 27, 2015
Written Report: 8
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: March 2015 Monthly Financial Report
RECOMMENDED ACTION: No action required at this time.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: None at this time.
SUMMARY: The Monthly Financial Report provides a summary of General Fund revenues
and departmental expenditures and a comparison of budget to actual throughout the year.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: Actual expenditures should generally run
about 25% of the annual budget in March. General Fund expenditures are at approximately
22.3% of the adopted budget at the end of March. Revenues are harder to measure in this same
way due to the timing of when they are received, examples of which include property taxes and
State aid payments (Police & Fire, DOT/Highway User Tax, PERA Aid, etc.).
There are still very few variances at the end of the first quarter. License and permit revenue is at
40.6% of budget due to the fact that $716,000, or nearly 90% of the 2015 business and liquor
license payments have been collected, which is consistent with previous years. Permit revenue is
on budget at 24.7% through the first quarter. Administration expenditures are running a small
temporary overage of less than 1% because of membership dues and the Council workshop.
VISION CONSIDERATION: Not applicable.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: Summary of Revenues & Expenditures
Prepared by: Darla Monson, Senior Accountant
Reviewed by: Brian A. Swanson, Controller
Nancy Deno, Deputy City Manager/HR Director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
Summary of Revenues & Expenditures - General Fund As of March 31, 2015 20152015201320132014201420152015 Balance YTD Budget BudgetAudited BudgetAudited Budget Mar YTD Remaining to Actual %General Fund Revenues: General Property Taxes20,657,724$ 21,987,968$ 21,157,724$ 21,176,542$ 22,364,509$ -$ 22,364,509$ 0.00% Licenses and Permits2,481,603 3,069,088 2,691,518 3,413,682 3,248,158 1,319,123 1,929,035 40.61% Fines & Forfeits335,150 311,882 320,150 369,545 320,200 52,001 268,199 16.24% Intergovernmental1,300,191 2,031,355 1,282,777 1,423,642 1,292,277 287,111 1,005,166 22.22% Charges for Services1,837,976 1,779,259 1,857,718 1,852,274 1,907,292 305,634 1,601,658 16.02% Miscellaneous Revenue1,092,381 1,067,210 1,112,369 1,302,160 1,196,018 232,792 963,226 19.46% Transfers In1,816,563 1,805,223 1,837,416 1,827,564 1,851,759 459,190 1,392,569 24.80% Investment Earnings150,000 14,180 150,000 119,831 140,000 - 140,000 0.00% Other Income36,650 10,756 17,950 13,306 17,900 1,644 16,256 9.18% Use of Fund Balance286,325 - 286,325 0.00%Total General Fund Revenues29,708,238$ 32,076,921$ 30,427,622$ 31,498,546$ 32,624,438$ 2,657,494$ 29,966,944$ 8.15%General Fund Expenditures: General Government: Administration877,099$ 890,883$ 939,391$ 980,087$ 979,183$ 248,811$ 730,372$ 25.41% Accounting827,320 819,458 876,216 873,987 912,685 214,960 697,725 23.55% Assessing543,855 543,202 559,749 560,979 602,299 145,191 457,108 24.11% Human Resources678,988 731,634 693,598 788,823 805,929 201,069 604,860 24.95% Community Development1,094,517 1,090,213 1,151,467 1,118,444 1,245,613 303,688 941,925 24.38% Facilities Maintenance1,074,920 1,058,127 1,053,715 1,039,699 1,094,836 224,420 870,416 20.50% Information Resources1,770,877 1,597,993 1,456,979 1,406,187 1,468,552 315,246 1,153,306 21.47% Communications & Marketing201,322 170,013 566,801 562,063 635,150 139,649 495,501 21.99% Community Outreach8,185 (22,450) 8,185 6,680 24,677 4,346 20,331 17.61% Engineering303,258 296,383 506,996 223,491 492,838 85,671 407,167 17.38%Total General Government7,380,341$ 7,175,456$ 7,813,097$ 7,560,440$ 8,261,762$ 1,883,052$ 6,378,710$ 22.79% Public Safety: Police7,443,637$ 7,225,579$ 7,571,315$ 7,769,592$ 8,511,557$ 2,049,527$ 6,462,030$ 24.08% Fire Protection3,330,263 3,246,162 3,458,161 3,535,716 3,722,396 889,233 2,833,163 23.89% Inspectional Services1,928,446 1,932,021 2,006,200 1,867,618 2,139,325 462,475 1,676,850 21.62%Total Public Safety12,702,346$ 12,403,762$ 13,035,676$ 13,172,927$ 14,373,278$ 3,401,235$ 10,972,043$ 23.66% Operations & Recreation: Public Works Administration393,054$ 288,207$ 222,994$ 236,304$ 232,437$ 50,658$ 181,779$ 21.79% Public Works Operations2,698,870 2,720,563 2,625,171 2,571,496 2,763,735 590,676 2,173,059 21.37% Organized Recreation1,280,117 1,256,678 1,290,038 1,277,046 1,304,470 254,109 1,050,361 19.48% Recreation Center1,449,930 1,501,627 1,543,881 1,561,224 1,591,115 278,251 1,312,864 17.49% Park Maintenance1,431,825 1,424,139 1,445,813 1,412,612 1,550,033 332,296 1,217,737 21.44% Westwood520,554 503,309 531,853 508,576 564,055 129,105 434,950 22.89% Environment430,876 434,297 433,750 379,193 472,049 55,672 416,377 11.79% Vehicle Maintenance1,240,325 1,268,559 1,285,489 1,323,358 1,333,520 290,577 1,042,943 21.79%Total Operations & Recreation9,445,551$ 9,397,379$ 9,378,989$ 9,269,808$ 9,811,414$ 1,981,343$ 7,830,071$ 20.19% Non-Departmental: General -$ 256,627$ 4,000$ 7,562$ -$ 1,110$ (1,110)$ 0.00% Transfers Out- 60,000 - 1,050,000 - - - 0.00% Tax Court Petitions180,000 53,345 195,860 13,834 177,984 - 177,984 0.00%Total Non-Departmental180,000$ 369,972$ 199,860$ 1,071,396$ 177,984$ 1,110$ 176,874$ 0.62%Total General Fund Expenditures29,708,238$ 29,346,569$ 30,427,622$ 31,074,572$ 32,624,438$ 7,266,740$ 25,357,698$ 22.27%Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 8) Title: March 2015 Monthly Financial ReportPage 2
Meeting: Study Session
Meeting Date: April 27, 2015
Written Report: 9
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: First Quarter Investment Report (Jan – Mar 2015)
RECOMMENDED ACTION: No action required at this time.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: None at this time.
SUMMARY: The Quarterly Investment Report provides an overview of the City’s investment
portfolio, including the types of investments held, length of maturity, and yield.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: The total portfolio value at March 31, 2015
is approximately $51.7 million. This includes $10.1 million of bond proceeds from the bonds
that were issued in December 2014, which are invested in a separate money market fund.
Approximately 53% of the portfolio is in longer term investments that include agency bonds,
municipal debt securities, and certificates of deposit. The remainder is held in money market
accounts for future cash flow needs, project costs, and investing opportunities. The overall yield
is at .85%, which is up from .62% at the end of 2014.
VISION CONSIDERATION: Not applicable.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: Discussion
Investment Portfolio Summary
Prepared by: Darla Monson, Senior Accountant
Reviewed by: Brian A. Swanson, Controller
Nancy Deno, Deputy City Manager/HR Director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 9) Page 2
Title: First Quarter Investment Report (Jan – Mar 2015)
DISCUSSION
BACKGROUND: The City’s investment portfolio is focused on short term cash flow needs and
investment in longer term securities. This is done in accordance with Minnesota Statute 118A
and the City’s Investment Policy objectives of: 1) Preservation of Capital; 2) Liquidity; and 3)
Return on Investment.
PRESENT CONSIDERATIONS: The total portfolio value decreased by approximately $10
million in the first quarter of 2015 from $62 million at 12/31/2014 to $51.7 million at 3/31/2015.
The decrease was in the money market funds as approximately $2.8 million of cash was needed
for the February 1 debt service payments, $1.8 million for the February 1 Pay As You Go note
payments, and $550,000 for the McGarvey property purchase by the EDA, as well as the on-
going cash flow needs for payroll and general operating expenses.
Since the balances in lower yielding money market accounts decreased during the quarter, and
because some of the new investments purchased had higher rates than those maturing, the overall
yield of the portfolio increased to .85% from .62% at the end of the 2014. Cities generally use a
benchmark such as the two year Treasury (.56% at 3/31/2015) or some similar measure for yield
comparison of their overall portfolio. The yield of the portfolio excluding the bond proceeds
money market is 1.04%. Short-term investments may be considered for the bond proceeds once
a spend down plan has been determined.
Approximately 47% or $24.3 million of the portfolio is currently held in money markets,
including the $10.1 million of bond proceeds. The rates on the four money market funds range
from .02% to .4%. While some of the cash in the regular money market accounts may be used to
purchase longer term investments in the coming months, it is necessary to keep a large amount of
cash available between property tax settlements for capital project payments, payroll and on-
going operating expenses. A 70% advance on the first half property tax settlement won’t be
received until the last week of June 2015.
Another 12.5% or $6.5 million of the portfolio is invested in fixed and step rate certificates of
deposit. There are currently 27 CD’s in the portfolio, each with a face value of $240,000 or less,
which guarantees that each CD is insured by the FDIC up to $250,000. Three CD’s with rates of
.85%, 1.15%, and 1.5% matured during the quarter. Six new CD’s were purchased with yields to
maturity ranging from 1.75% to 2.2%.
The remaining $20.9 million of the portfolio is invested in other long term securities, including
municipal debt and agency bonds. Municipal debt instruments are bonds issued by States, local
governments, or school districts to finance special projects. Agency bonds are issued by
government agencies such as the Federal Home Loan Bank or Fannie Mae and typically have
call dates at specific intervals where they can be called prior to their five-year maturity date.
One agency bond was called during the quarter and two municipal debt securities matured.
Three new agency bonds were purchased with higher yields to maturity of 2.1% to 2.2%.
Here is a summary of the City’s portfolio at March 31, 2015:
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 9) Page 3
Title: First Quarter Investment Report (Jan – Mar 2015)
NEXT STEPS: None at this time.
12/31/14 3/31/15
<1 Year 67% 58%
1-2 Years 3% 2%
2-3 Years 13% 19%
3-4 Years 9% 4%
>4 Years 8% 17%
12/31/14 3/31/15
Money Markets $36,137,468 $24,327,746
Commercial Paper $0 $0
Certificates of Deposit $5,471,211 $6,477,248
Municipal Debt $10,353,493 $9,079,199
Agency Bonds $10,063,919 $11,860,493
City of St. Louis Park
Investment Portfolio Summary
March 31, 2015
Institution/Broker Investment Type CUSIP Maturity Date
Yield to
Maturity Par Value
Market Value at
3/31/2015
Estimated Avg
Annual Income
Citizens Indep Bank Money Market 0.09%3,047,905 3,047,905 2,743
4M Fund Money Market 0.02%5,233,231 5,233,231 1,047
Northeast Bank Money Market 0.40%5,018,327 5,018,327 20,073
UBS Muni Debt - Gilroy, CA 376087CZ3 04/01/2015 1.81% 1,125,000 1,125,000 20,363
UBS Muni Debt - Dist of Columbia 25476FLE6 06/01/2015 1.33% 1,000,000 1,005,360 13,310
UBS CD - Apple Bank NY 0378304L7 09/14/2015 0.35% 240,000 239,974 840
UBS Muni Debt - Calif State 13063BNR9 10/01/2015 2.00% 1,000,000 1,012,050 20,000
UBS CD - BMW Bank UT 05568PZ59 10/26/2015 1.05% 240,000 240,986 2,520
UBS CD - Barclays Bank DE 06740KFS1 01/11/2016 1.60% 240,000 242,446 3,840
UBS CD - Medallion Bank UT 58403BM52 05/09/2016 0.50% 240,000 240,022 1,200
UBS CD - Discover Bank DE 254671AG5 05/02/2017 1.75% 240,000 243,214 4,200
UBS CD - GE Cap Retail Bank UT 36160NJZ3 05/04/2017 1.75% 240,000 243,703 4,200
UBS Muni Debt - N. Orange Cty CA 661334DR0 08/01/2017 1.01% 1,000,000 1,008,670 10,110
UBS CD - Sallie Mae Bnk UT 79545OPE9 08/29/2017 1.70% 240,000 243,754 4,080
UBS CD - Sun Natl Bank NJ 86682ABV2 10/03/2017 1.00% 240,000 243,554 2,400
UBS CD - Everbank Jacksonvl FL 29976DPB0 10/31/2017 1.00% 240,000 242,947 2,400
UBS CD - Comenity Bank DE 981996AX9 12/05/2017 1.25% 200,000 198,070 2,500
UBS CD - Banco Popular PR 05967ESG5 12/05/2017 1.10% 240,000 241,409 2,640
UBS FNMA 3136G1AJ8 01/30/2018 1.06% 1,000,000 997,110 10,630
UBS CD - Ally Bank UT 02006LNL3 02/05/2018 1.25% 240,000 241,531 3,000
UBS CD - Third Fed S&L Assn OH 88413QAT5 02/22/2018 1.35% 240,000 240,473 3,240
UBS FHLB 313381JW6 06/27/2018 0.92% 1,000,000 1,113,015 9,200
UBS Muni Debt - NYC Trans Fin Auth 64971QH55 11/01/2018 1.33% 1,000,000 1,002,890 13,280
UBS CD - Cit Bank UT 17284CH49 06/04/2019 1.90% 240,000 242,282 4,560
UBS CD - Amer Exp F UT 02587CAC4 07/10/2019 1.95% 240,000 241,894 4,680
UBS CD - First Bk Highland IL 3191408W2 08/13/2019 2.00% 240,000 240,442 4,800
UBS CD - Webster Bk NA CT 94768NJX3 08/20/2019 1.90% 240,000 241,548 4,560
UBS CD - Bk Hapoalim BM NY Step 06251AD31 08/22/2019 2.10% 240,000 240,336 5,040
UBS CD - Capital One Bank 140420PS3 10/08/2019 2.10% 240,000 242,136 5,040
UBS CD - State Bk India IL 856283XJ0 10/15/2019 2.10% 240,000 242,179 5,040
UBS FHLB Step Up 3130A3T61 12/30/2019 2.19% 3,000,000 3,005,010 65,700
UBS CD - Goldman Sachs Bank NY 38148JHB0 01/14/2020 2.20% 240,000 242,424 5,280
UBS CD - Amer Express UT 02587DXE3 01/30/2020 1.95% 240,000 239,753 4,680
UBS FHLB Bond Step Up 3130A3X66 01/30/2020 2.09% 1,000,000 1,000,700 20,880
UBS CD - Private Bank & Tr IL 74267GVA2 02/27/2020 1.750% 240,000 240,794 4,200
UBS CD - Camden Nat'l Bank ME 133033DR8 02/26/2020 1.800% 240,000 240,245 4,320
UBS FHLB Bond Step Up 3130A3ZC1 02/26/2020 2.163% 755,000 755,378 16,331
UBS CD - JP Morgan Chase OH Step 48125T2N4 03/04/2020 2.217% 240,000 240,739 5,321
UBS FHLB Bond Step Up 3130A4GQ9 03/18/2020 2.115% 1,000,000 1,003,170 21,150
UBS CD - HSBC Bank DE Step Rate 40434ASZ3 03/30/2020 2.221% 240,000 238,255 5,330
UBS Money Market - 2014 Bonds 0.06% 10,091,412 10,091,412 6,055
UBS Money Market 0.06% 936,872 936,872 562
30,291,745
Sterne, Agee Muni Deb - Smithfield, RI 832322NQ0 01/15/2016 2.40% 275,000 279,213 6,600
Sterne, Agee Muni Debt - Elmore Cnty AL 28976PAS4 02/01/2016 0.85% 1,050,000 1,063,367 8,925
Sterne, Agee Muni Debt - Elmore Cnty AL 28976PAT2 02/01/2017 1.15% 1,000,000 1,013,960 11,500
Sterne, Agee Muni Debt - New York, NY 64966HJS0 04/01/2017 1.20% 500,000 551,870 6,000
2,908,410
Wells Fargo CD - GE Capital UT 36160XC62 01/06/2016 1.70% 240,000 242,138 4,080
Wells Fargo Muni Debt - Fond Du Lac WI Schl 344496JQ8 04/01/2017 1.05% 1,000,000 1,016,820 10,500
Wells Fargo FNMA 3135G0NH2 08/23/2017 0.95% 1,000,000 998,810 9,500
Wells Fargo Fannie Mae 3136G04A6 11/21/2017 1.00% 1,000,000 996,180 10,000
Wells Fargo FNMA 3135G0TM5 01/30/2018 1.02% 1,000,000 996,800 10,200
Wells Fargo Fannie Mae 3136G1AZ2 01/30/2018 1.00% 1,000,000 994,320 10,000
5,245,068
GRAND TOTAL 51,744,686 438,649
Current Portfolio Yield To Maturity 0.85%
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 9)
Title: First Quarter Investment Report (Jan – Mar 2015)Page 4
Meeting: Study Session
Meeting Date: April 27, 2015
Written Report: 10
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: 2015/2016 Neighborhood Grants
RECOMMENDED ACTION: None at this time. The Council will be asked to formally
approve the grant funding at its May 4 meeting. Please let staff know of any questions you
might have.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: None at this time.
SUMMARY: Each year grant funding is made available to neighborhood associations to
promote strong neighborhoods and enhance community connections by bringing neighbors
together. Grant applications from 21 neighborhoods were received in March. On April 8th
Breanna Erickson facilitated the grant review process with Grant Review Committee Members
Erica Bagstad (Westwood Hills), Kim Curran-Moore (Willow Park), Darla Monson (City Staff)
and Brian Johnson (Minikahda Oaks). The Grant Review Committee met to review the grant
applications and make funding recommendations to the City Council. Attached is a worksheet
that provides specific detail on the recommendations made by the Grant Review Committee.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: The Grant Review Committee recommends
approval of $31,000 to fund the following 21 neighborhood grants:
$1240 Aquila $1650 Birchwood $1706 Blackstone
$1495 Bronx Park $660 Brooklawns $1700 Brookside
$1600 Browndale $1500 Cobblecrest $1510 Creekside
$500 Crestview $1450 Eliot View $1750 Elmwood
$1750 Fern Hill $1255 Lake Forest $1300 Lenox
$1750 Minikahda Oaks $1230 Minikahda Vista $1750 Minnehaha
$1750 Sorensen $1705 South Oak Hill $1750 Westwood Hills
The Grant Review Committee recommends approval of $1835 to fund the environmental grants
for nineteen neighborhoods.
The Grant Review Committee recommends approval of $4800 to fund insurance purchases for
thirteen neighborhoods.
VISION CONSIDERATION: St. Louis Park is committed to being a connected and engaged
community.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: Discussion
2015 Neighborhood Grant Guidelines
Neighborhood Grant Worksheet
Prepared by: Breanna Erickson, Community Liaison
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 10) Page 2
Title: 2015/2016 Neighborhood Grants
DISCUSSION
BACKGROUND: Each year grant funding is made available to neighborhood associations to
promote strong neighborhoods and enhance community connections by bringing neighbors
together. The City Council appropriated $31,000 in grant funds for the 2015 neighborhood grant
program, $2,000 for environmental initiatives, and $15,000 for insurance. Organized St. Louis
Park neighborhood associations may apply for up to $2,000 annually to support activities,
operations and community building activities and up to $100 for environmental related activities.
Neighborhood Associations are responsible for providing insurance when planning
neighborhood events in parks that bring outside equipment into the park such as, but not limited
to, moonwalks, petting zoos, etc. Neighborhood associations can apply for a maximum of $500
in addition to the standard grant to assist with purchasing insurance.
Grant applications from 21 neighborhoods were received in March. The total grant request for
2015/2016 was $36,531. Thirteen of these neighborhoods also applied for additional insurance
reimbursements and fourteen neighborhoods applied for the environmental funding. The Grant
Review Committee that met April 8th evaluated each grant application and made funding
recommendations to meet the $31,000 budget for the neighborhood grants. The grant
applications came in $5,531 over budget so the committee was forced to make reductions to all
of the neighborhoods. The 2015 Neighborhood Grant Guidelines state that garage sales will be
given the lowest priority, and, if grant requests exceed the amount available for funding, garage
sales will not be funded. For 2015/2016 the committee chose not to fund garage sales since this
is a revenue generating activity for participants. Based off of the Grant Guidelines, the
Committee then reviewed the lowest priority items and cut from those activities first. The
decision was then made to cap the maximum amount distributed to $1,750 per neighborhood,
which was implemented in order to meet the $31,000 budget. The committee made up of three
residents and one city staff member did an excellent job evaluating each grant against the grant
guidelines and making cuts to stay within budget and meet the goal of the grants which is to
support neighborhoods and enhance community connections by bringing neighbors together.
In previous years, it appeared that the criteria for obtaining the grant funding had not been
followed as closely as it should be. For example, to obtain grant funding the neighborhood
should be organized with a board of directors and bylaws, and should describe in its application
how they actively solicited in a timely fashion the neighborhood’s input on the grant application.
This year, neighborhoods were given clear instruction on the importance of being thorough on
the application and meeting the application requirements. The 2015 applications reflected the
given additional instruction.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 10) Page 3
Title: 2015/2016 Neighborhood Grants
NEIGHBORHOOD REVITALIZATION PROGRAM
2015/2016 GRANT GUIDELINES
Grant Purpose
In 1996, the City of St. Louis Park established this grant program to support neighborhoods and
enhance community connections by bringing neighbors together. Financial support is provided
for special projects initiated by neighbors to address issues, implement ideas or create
opportunities that are meaningful and important to their neighborhoods. This purpose still
applies today and supports the Vision Strategic Direction: St. Louis Park is committed to being
a connected and engaged community.
In 2015/2016, up to $31,000 in grants will be available to organized St. Louis Park
neighborhoods for activities that physically improve the neighborhood, enhance the sense of
community within the neighborhood, support citizen involvement, or develop neighborhood
leadership.
Environmental Grant: An additional $2,000 in grants will be available to neighborhoods that
incorporate an environmental component either in conjunction with an existing event or adding a
new program/event. This new grant element ties to the Vision Strategic Direction: St. Louis
Park is committed to being a leader in environmental stewardship. We will increase
environmental consciousness and responsibility in all areas of city business.
Money is also available for neighborhood associations seeking additional insurance for
neighborhood activities. More information is available on page 3 under “Funding for
Insurance”.
Eligible Activities
Examples of eligible uses for grant funds are: newsletters, meetings, postage, picnics, parties,
youth or senior programs, new neighbor welcome, hayrides, ice cream socials, children’s
parades, entrance signs, flower plantings, park improvements or community gardens. However,
neighborhoods are not limited to these examples. Residents are encouraged to be creative in
assessing their needs and determining the projects they want to undertake as a neighborhood.
Neighborhood leaders are required to include neighborhood resident input for proposed
projects. How you choose to receive this input must be included in the grant application.
A few examples of eligible expenses for the environmental component are: purchasing
environmentally friendly products for a neighborhood event, hosting an earth day or buckthorn
removal event, and working with our Parks & Rec department to add plants or recycling
containers to a park.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 10) Page 4
Title: 2015/2016 Neighborhood Grants
Eligible Applicants
To qualify, a neighborhood must have an established formal neighborhood association with
elected officers and a method of transferring leadership from one year to the next. A
neighborhood association must have written bylaws approved by its membership. Bylaws
should be reviewed annually.
Matching Grant Funds
To qualify for a grant, a neighborhood must demonstrate how it will contribute to or leverage the
Neighborhood Revitalization grant funds. A match of neighborhood resources maximizes the
use of limited City funds and confirms the commitment from each neighborhood.
Neighborhoods should provide a 100% (dollar for dollar) match to the grant amount. Any
combination of sources is acceptable in calculating the neighborhood match. These can be in the
form of:
• cash raised through fundraising • fees collected at activities
• donations from businesses, civic groups, etc. • in-kind services or sweat equity
Innovative Projects
The neighborhood activity can not duplicate a service already in place.
Improvements to Private Property
Neighborhoods should be aware that legal issues limit the use of City funds to improve private
property. Applicants should be able to clearly demonstrate a strong public purpose for funds
proposed to improve private property in any way.
Improvements to Public Land or Parks
Physical improvements to any public property must be coordinated with the appropriate City
department. It should not conflict with or duplicate a project in the City’s Capital Improvements
Program. A letter of feasibility must be included with a grant application that requests funding
for park improvements. This letter should confirm that the appropriate City department has
reviewed the proposed improvements, that the proposal is feasible, and that the project budget is
a reasonable estimate of project costs.
City department contacts for capital improvements;
• Rick Beane, Parks and Recreation Department, 952-928-2854
Old Grants
Neighborhoods with a previous grant must close out their account before new grant funds are
awarded. The deadline to close out 2014 grants is April 30, 2015. Neighborhoods that received
a lump sum advance amount for a 2014 grant must turn in all outstanding receipts or reimburse
the city for funds not used.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 10) Page 5
Title: 2015/2016 Neighborhood Grants
2015/2015 Grant Deadlines
2015/16 grants will run from May 1, 2015 to April 30, 2016. All receipts for expenses incurred
in 2015 should be turned in by January 31, 2016. All 2016 receipts are due by May 1, 2016.
Funding Priorities
Up to $31,000 is available for grants to neighborhoods in this funding cycle, including $2,000 for
environmental components. However, with 27 organized neighborhoods eligible for funds, the
process is competitive. Neighborhood leaders are advised to request funds for their most
important needs. During the grant review process, greater consideration will be given to
proposals that enhance community connections and show a greater match amount. Lesser
consideration will be given to proposals for park improvements and proposals that show a large
expenditure for a single activity. Garage sales will be given the lowest priority. If grant requests
exceed the amount available for funding, garage sales will not be funded.
Funding for Insurance
When planning neighborhood events in parks, you may be required to make provisions to use
your own insurance. Neighborhood Associations are responsible for providing outside insurance
when planning neighborhood events in parks that bring outside equipment into the park such as,
but not limited to moonwalks, petting zoos, etc. Without clear delineation of who is responsible
in case of accidents, neighborhood leaders may be held liable.
To assist neighborhood associations with purchasing additional insurance, you can apply for a
maximum of $500 per neighborhood in addition to the standard grant request. This money is
strictly for insurance and cannot be used for any other reimbursement.
Award Limits
Group activities, social events and meetings are considered for funding up to a maximum
of $800 per activity.
There is a $2000 grant award limit per neighborhood for all requests. Any neighborhood
requesting more than $1500 is advised to include priority preferences on their application.
Neighborhoods can apply for up to $100 for environmental projects.
$500 per neighborhood is available for the purchase of insurance.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 10) Page 6
Title: 2015/2016 Neighborhood Grants
Grant Process Steps
1. Apply
Applications must be received by 4:30 p.m. on Monday, March 23rd, 2015. They may be
mailed or hand-delivered to Breanna Erickson, Community Liaison, City of St. Louis Park,
3015 Raleigh Ave. South, St. Louis Park, MN 55416. Grants may also be submitted by email
to berickson@stlouispark.org or faxed to 952-924-2676. Any applications received after the
deadline will not be eligible to receive a grant. Please email Breanna if you would like to
receive an electronic grant application.
2. Review Time
City staff and a committee of volunteer neighborhood leaders will review the grant proposals
and make recommendations for approval to the City Manager.
3. Final Approval
Final authorization of the awards will be approved at a City Council Meeting late April or
early May.
4. Signed Agreements
Within two weeks of approval, each recipient neighborhood will receive a grant agreement
from the City. The agreement must be signed and returned prior to any funds being released.
Pre-application Assistance
All applicants are strongly encouraged to talk to city staff as they work to identify projects and
put together their applications. This will help to ensure complete and accurate applications, as
well as streamline application review.
Electronic Application
Contact Breanna Erickson at berickson@stlouispark.org or 952-924-2184 if you would like an
electronic application (Microsoft Excel) emailed to you.
Questions?
Contact Breanna Erickson, Community Liaison
at (952) 924-2184 or berickson@stlouispark.org
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 10) Page 7
Title: 2015/2016 Neighborhood Grants
2015/2016 Neighborhood Grant Awards
The Grant Review Committee reviewed 21 neighborhood grants that were received in
March, 2015.
Total grant requests significantly exceeded the 2015 grant budget of $31,000 so many
neighborhoods did not receive their full request. No Garage Sales were funded for
2014/2015 and the maximum grant awarded is $1750. Grant requests for insurance
came in under budget and all insurance requests were funded fully. Environmental
requests came in under budget so transfers from the neighborhood grant to the
environmental grant component were made where appropriate.
The 2015/2016 grant period begins May 1, 2015 and ends April 30, 2016.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 10) Page 8
Title: 2015/2016 Neighborhood Grants
Requested
Amount
Recommended Amount
$1,250 Aquila $1,240
$450 Picnic/Annual Meeting
Cut $10 for gift cards $650 Postage/Newsletter
$65 Dinner with Neighbors
$75 Aquila Book Club & Story night
$50 Insurance Request $50
$100 Trail Clean Up $100
$1,950 Birchwood $1,650
$500 Ice Cream Social/Summer Party
Move $100 to environmental
component for reusing signs,
cut new signage expense
$150 Newsletter
$700 Winter Party
$300 Movie Night
$0 New Signage
$100 Upkeep for Reusable Neighborhood Signs $100
$500 Insurance Request $100
$1,981 Blackstone $1,706
$306 Porta Potty
Cut $85 for Volunteer
Appreciation; cut $30 for
office supplies; cut $100 for
Annual Elections and
Activity Fee
$160 Blackstone Park Lawn & Trees
$190 2015 Kick Off Party
$170 Summer Gathering
$75 Ice Cream Float Social
$445 National Night Out
$215 Pizza Night
$100 Election/Winter Gathering
$160 Operating Support
$100 Insurance Request $100
$100 Flowers for Blackstone Park $100
$1,855 Bronx Park $1,495
$700 Annual Neighborhood Picnic Cut $60 for general
meeting expenses; cut
$200 for printing
Newsletters; cut $100 for
Honorarium
$100 General Meeting Expenses
$200 Neighborhood Newsletter
$495 Children & Family Social Activities
$200 Insurance Request $200
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 10) Page 9
Title: 2015/2016 Neighborhood Grants
Requested
Amount
Recommended Amount
$825 Brooklawns $660
$200 Kid's Halloween Party Moved $45 from General
Expenses (rain garden tour)
to Environmental
Component; cut $100 for
door prizes at Halloween
Event; cut $20 for prizes at
Egg Hunt
$200 Little Free Library
$45 Rain Garden Tour
$20 Egg Hunt
$260 Neighborhood Summer Get Together
$95
Fall Garden Planter Swap & Rain Garden
Tour $95
$2,000 Brookside $1,700
$500 National Night Out
Cut $300 for prizes
$250 Annual Meeting
$250 Movie Nights at Jackley Park
$100 Patriotic Bike Parade
$100 Skating Parties at Jackley Park
$100 Welcome Baskets
$50 Halloween Party
$0 Progressive Dinners
$0 Block Captain Initiative
$200 Ice Cream Social
$150 Porta Potty at Jackley (shared with Creekside)
$150 Insurance Request $150
$100 Weed and Clean up Noise Wall $100
$2,000 Browndale $1,600
$0 Newsletter
Cut $400 for Newsletter
$600 Fall Bonfire & Bluegrass
$500 Family Camp Outs
$100 Winterfest
$150 Spring Egg Hunt
$125 Earth Day Children's Event
$125 July 4th Kiddie Parade
$500 Insurance Request $500
$100 Earth Day Clean Up $100
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 10) Page 10
Title: 2015/2016 Neighborhood Grants
Requested
Amount
Recommended Amount
$1,600 Cobblecrest $1,500
$800 Hayride/Family Day at Aquila Cut $100 for Prizes $700 Newsletter
$500 Insurance Request $500
$1,745 Creekside $1,510
$75 Neighborhood Flower Urn
Cut $125 for prizes at
Block Party; cut $25 from
Admin Costs; move $60
from Butterfly Garden to
Environmental
Component
$575 Block party
$250 Porta Potty at Jackley (shared with Brookside)
$50 Administrative Costs and Annual Meeting
$300 Winter Activity
$540 Butterfly Garden
$50 National Night Out
$100 Creekside Cleanup & Butterfly Garden $100
$500 Insurance Request $500
$600 Crestview $500
$125 Reusable Signage Move $100 from Reusable
Signage to Environmental
Component $375 Tent for Picnic/Rental
$100 Reusable Signage $100
$1,650 Eliot View $1,450
$600 Annual Picnic & Election Move $100 from
Neighborhood Signs to
Environmental Component;
Cut $50 from picnic and $50
from youth activity for prizes
$400 Youth Activity/Fitness
$450 2 Plastic signs for neighborhood Events
$100 Reusable Signage $100
$2,125 Elmwood $1,750
$625 Summer Picnic Cut from general expenses to
meet new maximum award
amount. Cut $25 for childcare
at annul meeting, cut $150
from signs for neighborhood
events (lowest priority on
application).
$400 Kids Halloween and Pumpkin Carving Party
$400 Bowling Party
$25 Annual Meeting
$0 Signs for Neighborhood Events
$300 Porta Potty at Central
$100 Porta Potty Rental $100
$500 Insurance $500
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 10) Page 11
Title: 2015/2016 Neighborhood Grants
Requested
Amount
Recommended Amount
$1,960 Fern Hill $1,750
$500 Two Movie Nights Cut from general expenses
to meet new maximum
award distribution
$0 Fall/Winter Event
$250 Open Eye Figure Theater Puppet Show
$1,000 Neighborhood Place Making- Plants & Signs
$100 Neighborhood Place Making- Plants $100
$1,300 Lake Forest $1,255
$600 Neighborhood Annual Summer Party Cut $20 from general
supplies, and moved $25
from garden upkeep to
environmental
component.
$280 National Night Out Block parties
$50 General Association Supplies
$175 Neighborhood Fend and sign maintenance
$150 Neighborhood Garden Upkeep
$100 Compostable Products $100
$1,800 Lenox $1,300
$600 Neighborhood Newsletter Cut $200 from promotional
mailing for Spring Social, cut
$300 form Halloween
Pumpkin Carving for coffee
mugs.
$250 Spring Social
$300 Summer picnic with Community Project
$150 Fall/Halloween Pumpkin Carving Event
$100 Reusable Coffee Mugs $100
$2,000 Minikahda Oaks $1,750
$250 Spring Egg Hunt
Cut $50 from Annual Picnic
for prizes, cut $200 from
general funds to meet new
maximum amount distributed
$150 Summer Fall Social/National Night Out
$500 Annual Picnic and election
$150 Plantings
$700 Holiday Progressive Dinner
$500 Insurance Request $500
$100 Bass Lake Clean Up $100
$1,585 Minikahda Vista $1,230
$0 Neighborhood Plant Swap Cut $125 from Neighborhood
Plant Swap for prizes, moved $40
from Plant Swap to
Environmental Component, cut
$50 from annual meeting for
flyers, cut $140 for printing
newsletter
$150 Annual Meeting
$85 Neighborhood Newsletter
$995 National Night Out
$300 Insurance Request $300
$40 Neighborhood Plant Swap $40
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 10) Page 12
Title: 2015/2016 Neighborhood Grants
Requested
Amount
Recommended Amount
$2,300 Minnehaha $1,750
$625 National Night Out Cut Garage Sale, and cut
$425 from general expense to
meet new maximum amount
distributed
$550 Children's Play Time
$0 Garage Sale
$575 Neighborhood BBQ
$100 Neighborhood Clean Up $100
$2,000 Sorensen $1,750
$690 Neighborhood Newsletters Cut $100 from Annual
Business Meeting, Cut $150
from general expenses to
meet new maximum amount
distributed
$575 Annual Fall Social
$170 Annual Sorensen Business Meeting
$240 Webster Park Porta Potty
$75 Wine and Cheese Fundraiser
$100 Environmental Experiential Education $100
$500 Insurance Request $500
$1,955 South Oak Hill $1,705
$530 Neighborhood BBQ and Potluck Cut $150 from BBQ and
Potluck for Raffle, move
$100 from Dog waste
receptical to
Environmental
Component
$250 Neighborhood Meetings
$225 Summer Ice Cream Social
$100 Dog Waste Receptical
$600 Neighborhood Movie Nights
$100 Dog Waste Receptical $100
$1,900 Westwood Hills $1,750
$400 Winter Warm Up
Cut $40 from fall party for
prizes, cut $110 from general
funds to meet new maximum
distributed amount
$150 Spring Party
$540 Neighborhood Movie Night
$270 Ladies Night
$500 Fall party
$500 Insurance Request $500
$100 Plants/bedding near Nature Center $100
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 10) Page 13
Title: 2015/2016 Neighborhood Grants
Amount Recommended
$36,531 Total Requested by All Neighborhoods $31,001
$4,800 Total Insurance Request $4,800
$1,265 Total Environmental Request $1835
* Over by $5,531
Meeting: Study Session
Meeting Date: April 27, 2015
Written Report: 11
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: Refunding of Park Nicollet Private Activity Revenue Bonds and Host Approval
RECOMMENDED ACTION: No action required this evening. This report is intended to
update the Council on an action item that will be brought to the May 18th Council meeting.
Please let staff know of any questions or concerns you might have.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: Does the City Council wish to consider the refunding of all, or
a portion of the Park Nicollet Private Activity Revenue Bonds, Series 2008 and 2009, hold a
public hearing on May 18th, and allow the Housing and Redevelopment Authority of the City of
St. Paul, MN to be the “host” or issuer of the bonds?
SUMMARY: Park Nicollet Health Services has requested that the Housing and Redevelopment
Authority of the City of St. Paul, MN issue revenue refunding bonds in one or more series, as
taxable or tax-exempt obligations in a principal amount not to exceed $525,000,000. These
proceeds will be used to refund one or more outstanding bond issues and, in addition, pay for the
costs of issuance. More information detailing the entire process is provided in the background
section of this report.
NEXT STEPS:
• Pending no objections by the City Council, our EDA attorney (Kennedy and Graven) will
submit the public notice to the required publications regarding the public hearing to be
held Monday, May 18th at the Regular City Council meeting.
• After the public hearing is conducted, the City Council will be asked to consider a
resolution authorizing the Housing and Redevelopment Authority of the City of St. Paul
to be the issuer of the refunding bonds and close the sale of the bonds.
• Pending approval of the resolution, the Housing and Redevelopment Authority of the
City of St. Paul will move forward with all the required steps and close on the bonds
somewhere from late May to mid-June.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: The City will still receive its fee of 1/8th of
1 percent of the outstanding principal balance that is paid in semi-annual installments, even with
host approval being granted to the Housing and Redevelopment Authority of the City of St. Paul.
VISION CONSIDERATION: Not applicable.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: Discussion
Prepared by: Brian A. Swanson, Controller
Reviewed by: Nancy Deno, Deputy City Manager/HR Director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 11) Page 2
Title: Refunding of Park Nicollet Private Activity Revenue Bonds and Host Approval
DISCUSSION
BACKGROUND: Park Nicollet Health Services has requested that the Housing and
Redevelopment Authority of the City of St. Paul, MN issue revenue refunding bonds in a
principal amount not to exceed $525,000,000. This action is being done in conjunction with
Health Partners request that the St. Paul HRA refund bonds that had been issued in the past for
them (Note that Park Nicollet has merged with Health Partners). These proceeds will be used to
refinance one or more outstanding bond issues and pay for the costs of issuance. Since St. Louis
Park was an issuer of a portion of the bonds proposed to be refunded, the City Council needs to
conduct a public hearing and authorize the St. Paul HRA to issue the refunding bonds for the St.
Louis Park portion. Proceeds of the Refunding Bonds are proposed to be applied to refunding
the following obligations:
1) Health Care Facility Revenue Bonds, Series 2006, issued by the Housing and
Redevelopment Authority of the City of St. Paul on November 30, 2006, in the original
aggregate principal amount of $176,365,000.
2) Health Care Facilities Revenue Refunding Bonds, Series 2009, issued by the City of St.
Louis Park, Minnesota on December 31, 2009, in the original aggregate principal amount
of $188,340,000.
3) Health Care Facilities Revenue Refunding Bonds, Series 2008C, issued by St. Louis Park
on August 14, 2008, in the original aggregate principal amount of $221,850,000.
The Refunding Bonds are proposed to be issued for the benefit of HealthPartners, Inc., Group
Health Plan, Inc., HealthPartners Insurance Company, HealthPartners Administrators Inc.,
Regions Hospital, Park Nicollet Health Services, Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital, Park Nicollet
Clinic, Park Nicollet Health Care Products, and PNMC Holdings (collectively, the “Obligated
Group Members”).
Proceeds of the Series 2006 Bonds were loaned to Regions Hospital to:
1) Finance the acquisition, construction, expansion, improvement, remodeling, equipping,
and furnishing of the hospital facilities located at the intersection of Jackson Street and
University Avenue in the City of St. Paul.
2) Refund the Health Care Revenue Bonds of the St. Paul-Ramsey Medical Center Project,
Series 1993, issued by the Authority in the original aggregate principal amount of
$36,340,000, the proceeds of which also financed improvements to the hospital facilities.
Proceeds of the Series 2009 Bonds and the Series 2008C Bonds were loaned to many entities
under the “Park Nicollet” designation to refund obligations issued by the City of St. Louis Park
and that financed the following projects within the City of St. Louis Park:
1) Acquisition, construction, and equipping of an approximately 82,000 square foot building
to house the Cancer Center and related facilities with approximately 31,000 square feet of
the building reserved for future expansion, located at 6490 Excelsior Boulevard.
2) Acquisition, construction, and equipping of a new parking ramp including approximately
1,700 parking stalls adjacent to the Cancer Center.
3) Redesign and renovation of the emergency center at Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital,
located at 6500 Excelsior Boulevard.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 11) Page 3
Title: Refunding of Park Nicollet Private Activity Revenue Bonds and Host Approval
4) Construction and equipping of a new common entrance to Park Nicollet Methodist
Hospital, the new Cancer Center, and the Meadowbrook Building, and the new Cancer
Center, located at 3931 Louisiana Avenue South.
5) Acquisition, construction, and equipping of an approximately 69,000 square foot Eating
Disorders Institute, including a parking ramp and surface lot with an estimated 220
parking stalls, located at 3525 Monterey Drive.
Proceeds of the Series 2009 Bonds were also used to refund obligations issued by the City that
financed a portion of the following:
1) Construction and equipping of the Obligated Group’s Heart and Vascular Center at Park
Nicollet Methodist Hospital located at 6500 Excelsior Boulevard, which includes a
parking ramp and other improvements.
2) Construction of public infrastructure improvements, and the acquisition and installation
of equipment for Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital.
3) Acquisition and installation of equipment located in Burnsville, Maple Grove and
Wayzata at other Park Nicollet facilities.
Finally, proceeds of the Series 2008C Bonds also refinanced capital improvements to the
facilities of other Park Nicollet facilities originally financed with the proceeds of previous
following obligations issued by the City:
1) Hospital Facilities Refunding Revenue Bonds for Methodist, Series 1990-B
2) Health Care Facilities Revenue Bonds, Series 1993A
3) Health Care Facilities Revenue Bonds, Series 1993B
4) Health Care Facilities Revenue Bonds, Series 1993C.
All facilities to be refinanced with the proceeds of the Refunding Bonds proposed to be issued by
the Issuer will be owned and operated by one or more Obligated Group Members. Proceeds of
the Refunding Bonds will also be used to fund one or more reserve funds and pay the costs of
issuing the Refunding Bonds and other related costs. The maximum aggregate principal amount
of the proposed Refunding Bonds is estimated not to exceed $525,000,000.
The Refunding Bonds will be special, limited obligations of the Issuer, and the Refunding Bonds
and interest thereon will be payable solely from the revenues and assets pledged to the payment
thereof. No holder of any Refunding Bonds will ever have the right to compel any exercise of
the taxing power of the City to pay the Refunding Bonds or the interest thereon, nor to enforce
payment against any property of the City. The Refunding Bonds are to be payable solely from
revenues and security provided by the Obligated Group Members to the Issuer and pledged to the
payment of the Refunding Bonds. Before issuing the Refunding Bonds, the Issuer will enter into
one or more revenue agreements with Obligated Group Members, whereby the Obligated Group
Members will be obligated to make payments at least sufficient at all times to pay the principal
of and interest on the Refunding Bonds when due.
Study Session Meeting of April 27, 2015 (Item No. 11) Page 4
Title: Refunding of Park Nicollet Private Activity Revenue Bonds and Host Approval
Housing and Redevelopment Authority of the City of St. Paul Acting as the Host
There are several reasons why the Housing and Redevelopment Authority of the City of St. Paul
is being recommended to act as the host or Issuer of the bonds:
First, the Series 2006 Bonds issued by the Housing and Redevelopment Authority of the City of
St. Paul are almost a certainty to be refunded. It is highly unlikely that market conditions,
meaning interest rates, will change significantly enough in the next several weeks to month that
refunding these bonds will no longer make financial sense.
Second, the economics behind refunding the Series 2008 and 2009 Bonds issued by the City of
St. Louis Park are more sensitive to interest rate changes and other market conditions. Because
of these factors, the economics could cause the 2008 and 2009 Bonds to not be refunded. In
addition, the proposed refunding would merge the separate legacy obligated groups together
providing administrative relief.
Given the combination of Park Nicollet Health Services and HealthPartners, Inc., and certainty
of refunding the 2006 Regions Hospital (in St. Paul) bonds, it seems most logical to have all the
bonds refunded under one entity if market conditions allow. Therefore, based on these items,
staff is recommending that the Housing and Redevelopment Authority of the City of St. Paul act
as the host issuer for the refunding of the outstanding bonds and enter into a joint powers
agreement with the Housing and Redevelopment Authority of the City of St. Paul.
Financial Considerations
The City’s policy is to charge a fee of 1/8 of 1 percent of the outstanding principal amount of
private activity revenue bonds. As of December 31, 2014 Park Nicollet had approximately $356
million outstanding, of the total private activity revenue bonds of approximately $434 million, or
82% of the total. The Park Nicollet bonds generated approximately $445,000 of the $543,000 of
the total fees charged in 2014. With the Housing and Redevelopment Authority of St. Paul
hosting the bond issuance, the City of St. Louis Park will continue to receive its 1/8 of 1 percent
of the outstanding portion of the refunded 2008 and 2009 Bonds and will be paid directly by
Park Nicollet to the City of St. Louis Park upon receiving an invoice from the City semi-
annually, which is the current process.