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AGENDA
JUNE 16, 2014
6:45 p.m. SPECIAL STUDY SESSION – Westwood Room
Discussion Items
1. 6:45 p.m. Southwest LRT Preliminary Design Plans - Continued Discussion
7:30 p.m. CITY COUNCIL MEETING – Council Chambers
1. Call to Order
1a. Pledge of Allegiance
1b. Roll Call
2. Presentations
2a. Communication of Donation Appreciation
2b. Swearing In & Welcome of New CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) Members
2c. Proclamation Honoring Cris Gears
3. Approval of Minutes
3a. Study Session Minutes May 27, 2014
3b. Special Study Session Minutes June 2, 2014
3c. City Council Meeting Minutes June 2, 2014
4. Approval of Agenda and Items on Consent Calendar
NOTE: The Consent Calendar lists those items of business which are considered to be routine and/or which
need no discussion. Consent items are acted upon by one motion. If discussion is desired by either a
Councilmember or a member of the audience, that item may be moved to an appropriate section of the regular
agenda for discussion. The items for the Consent Calendar are listed on the last page of the Agenda.
Recommended Action: Motion to approve the Agenda as presented and items listed on the Consent Calendar; and to waive
reading of all resolutions and ordinances. (Alternatively: Motion to add or remove items from the agenda,
or move items from Consent Calendar to regular agenda for discussion.)
5. Boards and Commissions -- None
6. Public Hearings
6a. 2013 Annual MS4 Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) Meeting
Recommended Action: None at this time. Each year the City is required to hold a
public meeting to provide an opportunity for residents to review and comment on its
Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan and its storm water management program. This
agenda item serves to meet this requirement.
7. Requests, Petitions, and Communications from the Public -- None
8. Resolutions, Ordinances, Motions and Discussion Items -- None
9. Communications -- None
Meeting of June 16, 2014
City Council Agenda
CONSENT CALENDAR
4a. Designate Minger Construction Inc. as the lowest responsible bidder and authorize
execution of a contract with them in the amount of $482,837.50 for the Sanitary Sewer
Project – Rehabilitate Lift Station #1 – Project No. 4014-3000.
4b. Adopt Resolution approving acceptance of monetary donations of $755 from Joan
Stenberg and $25 from Leslie Marcus for a memorial bench in memory of Bee
Dickson at Westwood Hills Nature Center; and $20 from Charles Watson and $134.62
from Boy Scout Troop 738 for Westwood Hills Nature Center programs.
4c. Adopt Resolution approving acceptance of a monetary donation from Robert Estes in
the amount of $2,200 for the purchase and installation of a memorial bench in memory
of Laurel Ann Mickelson. The bench will be installed in Parkview Park.
4d. Adopt Resolution approving acceptance of a grant from the Minneapolis Auto Club
Foundation for Safety in the amount of $500 for the purchase of Safety Camp t-shirts
as a part of the annual Safety Camp event.
4e. Adopt Resolution accepting this report, establishing and approving plans and
specifications, and authorizing advertisement for bids for the Dakota Park Baseball
Field (Derrick Keller field) Renovation.
4f. Enter into a 5-year agreement with Cartegraph in an amount not to exceed $348,600,
inclusive of annual maintenance fees of $47,000 per year, for provision of software
licensing and maintenance, hosted application services, and related implementation /
data conversion / integration services for use of Cartegraph’s asset management
product offerings by the City of St. Louis Park. The cost includes interfaces with
Public Stuff/My St. Louis Park.
4g. Approve for filing Board of Zoning Appeals Minutes March 27, 2014
4h. Approve for filing Environment & Sustainability Commission Minutes May 7, 2014
St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority and regular City Council meetings are carried live on Civic TV cable channel
17 and replays are frequent; check www.parktv.org for the schedule. The meetings are also streamed live on the internet at
www.parktv.org, and saved for Video on Demand replays. The agenda is posted on Fridays on the official city bulletin board in
the lobby of City Hall and on the text display on Civic TV cable channel 17. The agenda and full packet are available by noon
on Friday on the city’s website.
Meeting: Special Study Session
Meeting Date: June 16, 2014
Discussion Item: 1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: Southwest LRT Preliminary Design Plans - Continued Discussion
RECOMMENDED ACTION: No formal action at this time. This is a continuation of the
discussion of the SWLRT Preliminary Design Plans under consideration for Municipal Consent,
priorities, and our strategy moving forward.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: Continued discussion on city priorities and approach for
Municipal Consent.
SUMMARY: During a number of recent meetings the Council has reviewed and discussed the
specifics of the SW LRT Preliminary Design Plans and discussed potential changes to the plans.
These discussions are in anticipation of preparing and adopting a resolution regarding Municipal
Consent on July 7.
At Monday night’s meeting the focus of discussion is proposed to be on the following areas:
1. Municipal Consent process.
2. Further discuss spreadsheet of unfunded improvements and provide direction to staff on
city priorities.
3. Next Steps:
• Continue to review base plans (June 23rd) and determine city priorities for Municipal
Consent.
• Prepare and discuss a draft Municipal Consent Resolution (June 23rd)
• Consideration of Municipal Consent Resolution – July 7 th.
The Preliminary Design Plans can be found at www.stlouispark.org/webfiles/file/community-
dev/swlrt_plans.pdf.
VISION CONSIDERATION: St. Louis Park is committed to being a connected and engaged
community.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: Summary List of Project Items
Prepared by: Meg J. McMonigal, Planning and Zoning Supervisor
Reviewed by: Kevin Locke, Community Development Director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
Special Study Session Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 1) Page 2
Title: Southwest LRT Preliminary Design Plans - Continued Discussion
SW LRT Project & Related Unfunded Items (DRAFT!)
Potential Additional SWLRT Project Elements
(these are items that are not part of the current official Municipal Consent
Plans that could be added if a funding source can be found)
Cost (m)
Trail separations
Wooddale $ 3.5
Beltline, if no underpass $ 4.0
Beltline underpass $ 18 - 23.0
Xenwood underpass $ 13.0
Louisiana south station location $ 23.0
Lynn extension and backage road $ 1.9
Potential Additional SWLRT Items Subtotal $ 45.4 - 64.4
Other SWLRT Project related Items (these are items that
would not be part of the SWLRT project but that have been identified by
SLP as necessary for a fully successful SLRT line)
South wye removal (necessary if Louisiana station is at
Oxford)
$ 3.2
Pedestrian/bike street to hospital (necessary if
Louisiana station is at Oxford)
$ 1 - 2.0
TSAAP improvements – opening day $ 8.9
TSAAP improvements - beyond $ 10.4
Misc. improvements $ .6
Other Related Items Subtotal $ 24.1 – 25.1
TOTAL of SWLRT Additions & Other Related Items $69.5 – 89.5
*Note: cost estimates do not all include contingencies & inflation to year of construction
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: June 16, 2014
Presentation: 2a
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: Communication of Donation Appreciation
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Mayor to announce and give thanks and appreciation for the
following donations being accepted at the meeting and listed on the Consent Agenda:
From Amount For
Joan Stenberg $755 Memorial bench in memory of Bee Dickson at
Westwood Hills Nature Center
Leslie Marcus $25 Memorial bench in memory of Bee Dickson at
Westwood Hills Nature Center
Charles Watson $20 Westwood Hills Nature Center programs
Boy Scout Troop 738 $134.62 Westwood Hills Nature Center programs
Robert Estes $2,200 Memorial bench in memory of Laurel Ann
Mickelson at Parkview Park
Prepared by: Debbie Fischer, Office Assistant
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: June 16, 2014
Presentation: 2b
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: Swearing In & Welcome of New CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) Members
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Mayor to i ntroduce Fire Chief Steve Koering to bring CERT
members forward with the City Clerk who will perform the swearing in.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: None
SUMMARY: The City has been working since early December to create the process and
organizational structure to support the CERT program. CERT, a FEMA (Federal Emergency
Management Agency) program supports the idea and importance of community volunteers and
citizen preparation. With the training this team has received they can now provide immediate
assistance to victims, organize volunteers, and assist in collection of information that will allow
professional responders the ability to better prioritize resources following a disaster. In addition
to disaster response they represent an excellent resource for any community event where
volunteers are needed. Current members are as follows: Kim Curran-Moore, Richard Dworsky,
Susanne Fahey, Cate Ford, David Hohertz, Stephen Hohertz, Mike Marohnic, Meg McCormick,
Scott Miller, Mike Robbins.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: All costs are covered within the Fire
department operating budget.
VISION CONSIDERATION: St. Louis Park is committed to being a connected and engaged
community.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: None
Prepared by: Steve Koering, Fire Chief
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: June 16, 2014
Presentation: 2c
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: Proclamation Honoring Cris Gears
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Mayor to read and present proclamation to Cris Gears.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: None at this time.
BACKGROUND: Past St. Louis Park resident and Director of Parks and Recreation Cris Gears
is retiring as of July 3, 2014. Cris began as a seasonal, part-time employee for St. Louis Park
November 1967 to September 1970. Positions held include warming-house attendant, summer
playground leader, sports official and park maintenance worker. In October of 1970, Cris was
promoted to a Recreation Program Coordinator. As Coordinator, he was responsible for
organizing and overseeing youth and adult athletics, along with supervising warming-house
attendants and summer playground staff. In November of 1974, Cris began working for a
publishing company that produced a sports magazine for Minnesota Recreation and Park
Association. Following that position, he worked as a restaurant manager for a division of
Pillsbury through April of 1979.
Cris’ passion for recreation brought him back to the City of St. Louis Park as a Recreation
Programming Coordinator from May of 1979 to 1983. He then worked as Assistant to the City
Manager through October of 1985. In November of 1985 to April 1988, Cris held the position of
City Manager for the City of Excelsior before becoming the Parks and Recreation Director for
St. Louis Park in May 1988. Cris moved from Minnesota to Washington, accepting a position as
the Director of Facilities in the Parks and Recreation for Kitsap County in June 1998. He held
this position until February of 2005 when he was promoted to County Administrator for Kitsap
County, Washington.
From March of 2007 to present, Cris has been the Superintendent of Three Rivers Park District.
Cris has provided critical leadership in the development of projects throughout his career
including Minnesota’s first outdoor water park, two indoor ice arenas in St. Louis Park and the
development of the county fairgrounds and regional sports complex (complete with a baseball
stadium) in Kitsap County, WA. His tenure at Three Rivers Park District has included
development of the Dakota Rail Regional Trail, Silverwood Park, a new Eastman Nature Center,
a 5K cross-country ski trail with snowmaking equipment and lights, and the acquisition of
Kingswood Park. Cris led efforts to reach an agreement with the Minnesota DNR on a $16
million project to renovate Coon Rapids Dam and the planning and design of a new $15 million
chalet for Hyland Ski and Snowboard Area.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: Not applicable.
VISION CONSIDERATION: St. Louis Park is committed to being a connected and engaged
community.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: Proclamation
Prepared by: Cindy Walsh, Director of Operations and Recreation
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
City Council Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 2c) Page 2
Title: Proclamation Honoring Cris Gears
PROCLAMATION
Honoring Cris Gears
WHEREAS, Cris began as a seasonal, part-time employee for St. Louis Park from 1967 to
1970 as a warming house attendant, playground leader, sports official, and park maintenance
worker, and;
WHEREAS, Cris was promoted to Recreation Program Coordinator in 1970 and was
responsible for organizing and overseeing youth and adult athletics, along with supervising
warming house attendants and summer playground staff, and;
WHEREAS, after being Program Coordinator for four years, Cris began working for a
publishing company that produced a sports magazine for Minnesota Recreation and Park
Association, and;
WHEREAS, Cris then worked as a restaurant manager for a division of Pillsbury through
April of 1979, and;
WHEREAS, one month later, Cris’ passion for recreation brought him back to the city as a
Recreation Programming Coordinator through 1983, then as Assistant to the City Manager
through October of 1985, and;
WHEREAS, in November of 1985, Cris held the position of City Manager for the City of
Excelsior, and;
WHEREAS, Cris accepted the position of Parks and Recreation Director for the City of St.
Louis Park in May of 1988. One of Cris’ notable accomplishments as Director was the
renovation of The Rec Center in 1997, and;
WHEREAS, in June of 1998, Cris moved to the State of Washington and accepted a
position as the Director of Facilities in the Parks and Recreation Department for Kitsap County.
He was promoted to County Administrator for Kitsap County in 2005, and;
WHEREAS, Cris moved back to Minnesota in March of 2007 to become the
Superintendent of Three Rivers Park District, a position he has retained until his upcoming
retirement date of July 3, 2014
NOW, THEREFORE, LET IT BE KNOWN that the Mayor and City Council of the City
of St. Louis Park wish to acknowledge and thank Cris Gears for his tremendous leadership and
contributions to the Parks and Recreation field and wish him much enjoyment in his retirement.
WHEREFORE, I set my hand and cause the
Great Seal of the City of St. Louis Park to be
affixed this 16th day of June, 2014.
___________________________________
Jeff Jacobs, Mayor
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: June 16, 2014
Minutes: 3a
UNOFFICIAL MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION
ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
MAY 27, 2014
The meeting convened at 6:35 p.m.
Councilmembers present: Mayor Jeff Jacobs, Tim Brausen, Steve Hallfin, Susan Sanger, and
Jake Spano.
Councilmembers absent: Gregg Lindberg and Anne Mavity.
Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Harmening), City Attorney (Mr. Scott), Director of
Engineering (Ms. Heiser), Senior Engineering Project Manager (Mr. Sullivan), Senior
Engineering Project Manager (Mr. Shamla), Planning and Zoning Supervisor (Ms. McMonigal),
Economic Development Coordinator (Mr. Hunt), Controller (Mr. Swanson), and Recording
Secretary (Ms. Hughes).
Guests: Linda Trummer (Meadowbrook Collaborative Outreach Coordinator), Mark Dierling
(SEH), and Heather Kienitz (SEH).
1. Future Study Session Agenda Planning – June 2 and 9, 2014
Mr. Harmening presented the proposed special study session agenda for June 2nd and the
proposed study session agenda for June 9th.
Councilmember Brausen requested that Council revisit the topic of business recycling and green
packaging initiatives at a future meeting.
2. Meadowbrook Collaborative Update
Mayor Jacobs introduced Linda Trummer, Outreach Coordinator for Meadowbrook
Collaborative.
Ms. Trummer provided a brief historical background on Meadowbrook Manor and the
Meadowbrook Collaborative and stated that the founders of Children First founded the
Meadowbrook Collaborative in 1993 to address the issues of crime & disorder, truancy, housing
code violations, and barriers to resources. She stated the Meadowbrook Collaborative mission is
to enhance the self-direction of Meadowbrook Manor residents towards the betterment of their
lives in the areas of health, education, and safety. She explained that one of the first things they
realized was that they would not be able to do much of anything until residents felt safe in their
neighborhood. The collaborative was able to access federal funds to have a police officer
dedicated to the area who worked hard to build relationships with residents and they saw a
dramatic reduction in crime based on those relationships. She discussed several areas of focus,
including reducing social costs related to crime, poor health, and welfare; improving school
attendance and closing achievement gaps; moving individuals from poverty to self-sufficiency;
and building a sustainable community where everyone can live well. She then introduced Anna
Alberto, a teacher at the Meadowbrook Collaborative, and discussed some of the programming,
including the early childhood initiative, targeted services with the School District, and the
summer playground program. She also introduced Brandon Oslund, Advisory Council member
and team leader for fundraising and sustainability.
City Council Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 3a) Page 2
Title: Study Session Meeting Minutes May 27, 2014
Mr. Oslund stated that the Park Nicollet Foundation agreed to provide funding for the
Meadowbrook Collaborative to work with a consultant on its sustainability goals and began
working with Steve Devereux in January on its sustainability efforts.
Mr. Steve Devereux, Devereux Development Consulting, stated he has been working with the
Meadowbrook Collaborative to help them determine funding opportunities as well as developing
financial goals and assisting with implementation of fundraising strategies. He stated in recent
years, the Park Nicollet Foundation has provided approximately 30% of the Meadowbrook
Collaborative’s financial support and the Park Nicollet Foundation has committed funding for
three years. He presented the Meadowbrook Collaborative’s operating budget for July 1, 2014 to
June 30, 2015, and stated the annual budget is approximately $170,000 with the majority of the
budget going toward direct program support. He also presented the 2014-2015 projected revenue
and advised they have a shortfall of approximately $48,000, with a proposal to a prospective
foundation donor that could secure an additional $15,000. He stated that Park Nicollet
Foundation has committed to approximately $43,000/year for the next 3 years to support the
Meadowbrook Collaborative, and the St. Louis Park School District provides pass through
monies that support the after school initiative. He stated the gap of approximately $48,000 needs
to be closed before the end of June and they would like to discuss the funding gap and potential
financial support from the City while we build our donor prospects, which will take
approximately 3 years
Councilmember Hallfin stated the City no longer has a cop shop at Meadowbrook Manor and
this appears to be having a negative effect and this might be something that Council should
review and keep an eye on. When asked, Ms. Trummer said first that she could speak for hours
about the wonderful stories of police officers connecting with Meadowbrook adults and children
over the first 15 years of operation. She stated it takes a long time to build relationships between
disenfranchised people and the police, especially with people coming from different countries
where their relationships with police are not always positive. She stated she has had several
conversations with city/police administration and the Meadowbrook Collaborative executive
committee about the importance of maintaining those relationships on an ongoing basis.
Mayor Jacobs thanked Ms. Trummer for the update.
3. Highway 7 and Louisiana Avenue Update
Mr. Harmening presented the staff report.
Mr. Shamla advised that the project is currently 24 days behind schedule and the contractor has
been working on Saturdays to catch up. He stated the estimated substantial completion date is
November 24th with final completion in June 2015. He went on to explain that SEH put together
the estimated quantities of contaminated soil. Last fall it was estimated that there would be
$1.75 million in overruns related to the contaminated soils, however, that amount is currently
projected at $2.8 million in overruns for a total project cost of $33.5 million, which is 5% more
than originally budgeted for the project.
Mr. Harmening advised that the City’s consultants SEH undertook a thorough analysis of the
soils that resulted in the estimates to remove and replace the soils with buildable soils. He stated
that staff is discouraged that this estimate was off by a factor of almost three and it is imperative
that the City figure out why that happened. He explained that the City’s understanding is that the
groundwater in the area rose substantially from what was used to determine the amount of soil
City Council Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 3a) Page 3
Title: Study Session Meeting Minutes May 27, 2014
correction necessary, and when the groundwater went up by seven to eight feet, it contaminated
more soils, requiring them to be removed and replaced. He stated there was some material
placed underneath the roadbed by MnDOT that had to be removed and replaced at a cost of
approximately $500,000 and the City asked MnDOT to provide reimbursement but MnDOT
declined, adding that the City will continue to pursue reimbursement from MnDOT.
Ms. Heiser explained that the material under the roadbed consists of impacted fill from the time
MnDOT rebuilt Highway 7 many years ago and it was common practice at the time for recycled
materials to be hauled in, however, the new rules require this material to be hauled away.
Councilmember Sanger requested further information about the significant rise in the
groundwater level and asked if it rose that much between the time SEH did its sampling and the
beginning of the project.
Mr. Mark Dierling stated that SEH’s analysis included drilling holes and monitoring the
groundwater elevations and when the work began, they discovered the rise in the groundwater
elevations, adding that it is common to have fluctuations in the groundwater elevation but the
magnitude surprised them. He added that given the subsurface features in the area, there is
channeling of groundwater through this area that tends to increase the elevation and the wet
weather contributed as well to the rise in elevation.
Councilmember Sanger asked if the City could apply for grant money to remediate some of the cost.
Mr. Harmening stated the City applied for money from the County last January but was not
approved. He pointed out that the extra cost of $2.8 million does not mean that the City’s final
cost has increased by that amount. He stated the City’s estimated share of the project was
originally projected at $11,074,076, and that amount is now $12,280,454.
Land Acquisition
Mr. Hunt explained that the northeast parcel of the interchange is located between two other City
owned properties and the intent was to build a modest storm water pond to help facilitate
redevelopment to the north. He stated if the City acquires the northeast parcel the City could
double the size of the storm water pond. He explained that the other parcel is located in the
southwest corner of the interchange and is situated west of the EDA parcel and both parcels are
oddly shaped by themselves but combined would create an oblong shaped lot that could facilitate
commercial development at this highly desirable commercial location.
Councilmember Sanger asked about the potential for return when the City sells the combined
southwest parcel.
Mr. Hunt believed the land values would be in the upper teens per square foot and felt this
represented a very good investment by the City. He stated that when the interchange is done the
City would have to have the property reappraised in order to determine the City’s ability to
recoup its investment.
Mr. Harmening pointed out that the soils are bad on this site and the City is going to have to deal
with that but it does not impact the price of the property and what the City would need to pay
Clear Channel.
Councilmember Spano noted that whether or not the City buys the property, there would
continue to be billboards on this property.
City Council Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 3a) Page 4
Title: Study Session Meeting Minutes May 27, 2014
Mr. Scott stated that on the southwest parcel, the City is exploring the possibility of moving the
billboard even farther to the west. To assist with this, the City is looking to vacate some
additional right of way so the billboard may be able to be moved entirely off this parcel and
Clear Channel has indicated it is fine with that. He advised that Clear Channel would have a
permanent easement to have a billboard on the site and that is factored into the negotiations on
the purchase price.
Councilmember Spano expressed support for purchasing the parcels and urged the City to get
Clear Channel to move the billboards as far away as possible.
Councilmember Sanger requested further information about the storm water needs on the
northeast parcel.
Ms. Heiser explained that the large pond being constructed today is to address the storm water
needs for the Highway 7 interchange. The City is considering making a bigger pond for the
regional system to handle the storm water needs when redevelopment occurs in this area.
Mr. Harmening stated the City wants a storm water pond large enough to handle this area similar
to the pond at Hoigaard Village and this represents a step toward thinking more regionally versus
each development having its own storm water pond.
It was the consensus of the City Council to direct staff to negotiate with Clear Channel on the
purchase of the additional parcels.
4. Southwest LRT Preliminary Design Plans – Continued Discussion
Mr. Harmening presented the staff report.
Ms. McMonigal introduced Heather Kienitz from SEH and advised that the municipal consent
plans for Beltline provide access for cars from CSAH 25, a surface parking lot for 545 vehicles,
a new traffic signal at Lynn, removing the frontage road where the parking lot is shown, adding a
second left turn lane from Lynn to CSAH 25 going west, and a queue cutter signal at the railroad
tracks to prevent people from stopping on the tracks. She advised that staff met with the SPO
last week and discussed improving the access points from CSAH 25, as well as the possibility of
a joint development on the parking lot site, improving the signal location at Lynn, separating the
regional trail, and the possibility of a backage road at Lynn.
Mr. Sullivan discussed the City’s efforts to minimize conflicts between light rail and freight rail
and ways to better handle the current and future traffic in the area for all modes of transportation.
He presented a map of the Southwest LRT alignment for the Beltline station and stated that most
of the traffic congestion on Beltline is related to CSAH 25 having the most green time with an
approximate 125-second cycle length. He stated there are currently approximately two freight
trains per week in the a.m. peak and one freight train during the 4:00-6:00 p.m. peak resulting in
delays of 3-3.5 minutes. He stated the light rail trains have an approximate 10-minute headway
and take approximately 45-50 seconds to travel through the crossing. He stated that City staff
and SEH have analyzed the plans for light rail and freight rail at grade with Beltline as well as
grade separation with Beltline and found there is not a lot of change with LRT along this
corridor, explaining that the real roadblock in the system is due to the CSAH 25 and Beltline
signal. This results in the highest delay, and grade separating light rail and freight rail would not
City Council Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 3a) Page 5
Title: Study Session Meeting Minutes May 27, 2014
result in significant changes from an operational perspective. He stated if light rail comes
through at grade, it would add an average of 5-8 seconds in the a.m. peak and approximately 8
seconds in the p.m. peak; in addition, if there was a freight rail and light rail event occurring
simultaneously, it was add approximately 20 seconds to the p.m. peak.
Councilmember Sanger stated there is frequently a backup occurring now from the tracks back to
CSAH 25 and questioned where that backup is going to go with the addition of light rail.
Ms. Heather Kienitz explained that they tested no light rail or freight rail at a grade separated
crossing versus a light rail event at grade and found there were no queues extending back to
CSAH 25. She stated there were queues with a freight rail event that extended back to CSAH 25
but the volume was not such that it would develop a long enough queue back to CSAH 25
throughout the entire peak hour.
Councilmember Sanger reiterated that cars are already backing up to CSAH 25 and if this was as
easy as changing the signal timing the City should run an experiment now before anything is
built.
Mr. Harmening stated that it does not appear that grade separating Beltline at a cost of
approximately $20 million is going to achieve the result Council is looking for and the money
might be better spent on improvements to the intersection in lieu of grade separation.
Mr. Sullivan explained that proposed improvements include dual left turn lanes for northbound
traffic on Beltline to allow more cars to get through the intersection and alleviate congestion. He
stated that the current signal timing is geared toward the County roadway and staff has suggested
to the County the possibility of changing the signal timing at this location to provide more green
time to the City’s lanes. He indicated that for a fraction of the $20 million cost for grade
separation, staff believes that improvements to the intersections could alleviate congestion in the
area and better balance the system. He stated that the Nordic Ware improvements would require
trucks to go south on Beltline and no left turns would be allowed during the peak p.m.
Councilmember Hallfin agreed with the concerns expressed by Councilmember Sanger and
stated that the $20 million grade separation cost is not yet confirmed and he would like to see
more concrete numbers. He felt that the roadway should be grade separated because the traffic
in this area is only going to get worse.
Councilmember Sanger indicated the City had discussions with the County a number of years
ago about changing the timing of the signals and the County refused. She felt the City has to
deal with Ottawa between Minnetonka Boulevard and CSAH 25, particularly with the addition of
a light rail station and the increased traffic needs to be accounted for in the estimates. She also
urged the City to push for a park and ride in conjunction with redevelopment and stated that it
makes no sense to use all that space for a surface parking lot.
Ms. McMonigal stated that staff has been talking with the SPO about a development scenario
instead of the large surface lot. She indicated Hennepin County has expressed a willingness to
optimize its roadways and felt the County would be more open to changing the signal timing
than in the past. She then presented a draft list of unfunded items totaling $77 million and stated
Met Council would not fund these costs and Met Council needs a commitment that the City or
some other agency would fund them. She stated that the list also includes TSAAP identified
improvements for opening day and beyond totaling $21 million.
City Council Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 3a) Page 6
Title: Study Session Meeting Minutes May 27, 2014
Mr. Harmening asked if the City should make a statement at the Hennepin County and Met
Council Public Hearing on Thursday, May 29th.
Councilmember Sanger felt the City should make an appearance either in person or in writing to
reinforce the City’s position in favor of light rail and to reinforce that there are additional
considerations the City needs beyond what the SPO has already acknowledged.
Councilmember Spano stated that Council has already issued an official statement and felt that
the City should stress the importance of the work the City is doing with the Met Council and the
fact that the City is making headway but that it is critical that these issues get addressed in order
for the line to function the way that Met Council wants it to function.
Councilmember Sanger stated the public hearing is also an opportunity for the City to clearly
state on the public record that it wants Met Council to acknowledge that it is not going to study
the reroute idea again.
Mr. Harmening agreed to have a City staff member speak at the public hearing on May 29th.
Communications/Meeting Check-In (Verbal)
Mr. Harmening advised that a retirement party for Mr. Windschitl is being held tomorrow from
1:00-4:00 p.m. at Fire Station #1.
Council discussed the cost overruns associated with the contaminated soils on the Highway 7 and
Louisiana Avenue project and agreed to further discuss this in closed session.
Councilmember Sanger stated that Council does not typically receive presentations from other
nonprofits and was concerned about setting a precedent.
Councilmember Spano stated that he and Councilmember Hallfin felt it was a good idea to hear
from the Meadowbrook Collaborative about what they do and how the City might consider
supporting them in the short term.
Councilmember Hallfin stated if the Meadowbrook Collaborative is not able to do its work then
the costs to the City could go up and it was his belief that if the City does not help, that crime
will go up and hence, police protection will increase.
Mr. Harmening agreed to have Mr. Luse discuss this issue with Council.
The meeting adjourned at 8:59 p.m.
Written reports provided and documented for recording purposes only:
5. April 2014 Monthly Financial Report
______________________________________ ______________________________________
Nancy Stroth, City Clerk Jeff Jacobs, Mayor
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: June 16, 2014
Minutes: 3b
UNOFFICIAL MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL STUDY SESSION
ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
JUNE 2, 2014
The meeting convened at 6:34 p.m.
Councilmembers present: Mayor Jeff Jacobs, Steve Hallfin, Gregg Lindberg, Anne Mavity,
Susan Sanger, and Jake Spano.
Councilmembers absent: Tim Brausen.
Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Harmening), Deputy City Manager/Human Resources Director
(Ms. Deno), Controller (Mr. Swanson), Finance Supervisor (Mr. Heintz), and Recording
Secretary (Ms. Hughes).
Guest: David Mol, CPA (HLB Tautges Redpath, Ltd.)
1. 2013 Financial Statements – Auditors Discussion and Review
Mr. Swanson presented the staff report and introduced David Mol, CPA.
Mr. Mol explained that the reports issued by the auditor include an opinion on the fair
presentation of the financial statements, a report on internal controls, a report on compliance with
the Minnesota legal compliance audit guide for political subdivisions, a report on compliance
with Federal program requirements, and a report on communication with those charged with
governance. He advised that HLB Tautges Redpath audited the financial statements that are the
responsibility of management using GAAS and GAGAS audit standards resulting in a clean or
unmodified audit opinion on the 2013 financial statements. He congratulated the City on
receiving the Government Finance Officers Association award for “Certificate of Achievement
for Excellence in Financial Reporting” for the 2012 financial statements. He stated the report on
internal controls noted one item regarding revenue recognition and explained that this item was
detected by City staff and is related to the timing of the City’s receipt of antenna income that is
paid once per year and the financial statements should have shown an accrual at year end, adding
that it was their opinion this was not a critical issue.
Mr. Swanson advised that the City has several leases throughout the City for its antennas and the
payments are due January 1st and the City previously recorded the revenue in December. He
added that the City adjusted this item for 2012 and has made the same adjustment for 2013.
Mr. Mol stated that the auditors selected a sample of transactions to test for compliance with
Minnesota statutory provisions and there were no findings of noncompliance for 2013. He stated
that a single audit related to compliance with Federal program requirements is required whenever
there is an expenditure of Federal funds exceeding $500,000 in a single year and the Highway
7/Louisiana Avenue project and the FEMA project were selected for testing and there were no
findings of noncompliance. He discussed the report on communication with those charged with
governance and noted that GASB No. 65 was required to be implemented in 2013 and includes
the City’s OPEB obligation of $1.9 million at the end of 2013. He indicated there was also one
uncorrected misstatement on the financial statements that does not materially misrepresent the
City’s financial statements related to understatement of property taxes receivable.
City Council Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 3b) Page 2
Title: Special Study Session Meeting Minutes June 2, 2014
Mr. Swanson explained that when tax court cases are settled and result in a reduction in property
taxes, the amount is reduced on the City’s tax settlements and the County reports that amount on
the delinquent tax line thus understating the City’s property taxes receivable each year. He
stated that staff has worked with Hennepin County on this issue and the County will have a new
system in place in 2015 that will correct this issue, adding that most cities in Hennepin County
have this same issue.
Mr. Mol advised that there were no disagreements with management and no difficulties
encountered in performing the audit. He then presented the 2013 financial summary, 2013
revenue sources for all funds, and 2013 expenditures and stated the City had approximately $57
million in its fund balance at year end. He also presented the General Fund working capital
needs throughout the year as well as a history of the General Fund balance and stated that the
targeted fund balance is 35-50% of subsequent years budgeted expenditures and the unassigned
balance at December 31, 2013, was 47% of subsequent years budgeted expenditures. He also
discussed the City’s debt service funds and the balance of debt outstanding.
Mr. Swanson indicated the City has approximately $25 million in outstanding debt and has
approximately $140 million worth of capacity to issue more debt before hitting its legal debt
margin.
Mr. Mol presented information regarding the Water Utility Fund and advised that 2013 expenses
in this fund increased over 2012 primarily due to expensing of the water tower painting that
occurred in 2013. He also presented information regarding the Sewer Utility and Solid Waste
Funds, as well as the City’s tax levy and tax rates.
Mr. Swanson stated that revenues in the Water Utility decreased slightly in 2013 partially due to
Novartis leaving the City, adding that staff will present Council with a recommendation to
increase utility rates per the City’s long range financial management plan.
Mr. Mol advised that GASB No. 68 takes effect in 2015 related to pension obligations and
explained that PERA has an unfunded benefit obligation of approximately $5 billion that will
require PERA to prepare an allocation to all its participating employers representing their share
of the unfunded pension liability and participants are required to report that liability in their
financial statements.
Mr. Harmening commended Mr. Swanson and Mr. Heintz and all the Finance Department staff
for their outstanding work on the audit and the City’s financial statements.
Councilmember Mavity requested that staff continue to provide Council with the narrative about
the City’s funds and their performance, adding that this information was helpful in planning the
City’s budget.
The meeting adjourned at 7:19 p.m.
Written reports provided and documented for recording purposes only:
2. Update Connect the Park!
______________________________________ ______________________________________
Nancy Stroth, City Clerk Jeff Jacobs, Mayor
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: June 16, 2014
Minutes: 3c
UNOFFICIAL MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
JUNE 2, 2014
1. Call to Order
Mayor Jacobs called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m.
Councilmembers present: Mayor Jeff Jacobs, Steve Hallfin, Gregg Lindberg, Anne Mavity,
Susan Sanger, and Jake Spano.
Councilmembers absent: Tim Brausen.
Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Harmening), Deputy City Manager/Human Resources Director
(Ms. Deno), Director of Inspections (Mr. Hoffman), Fire Chief (Mr. Koering), Controller (Mr.
Swanson), Finance Supervisor (Mr. Heintz), Planning and Zoning Supervisor (Ms. McMonigal),
Assistant Zoning Administrator (Mr. Morrison), and Recording Secretary (Ms. Hughes).
Guest: David Mol, CPA (HLB Tautges Redpath, Ltd.).
1a. Pledge of Allegiance
1b. Roll Call
2. Presentations
2a. Presentation Accepting Monetary Donation from Loop Minnesota and
Hearing Loss Association of America ($1,000 each)
Mr. Hoffman stated that the City developed a partnership with Loop Minnesota and the
Hearing Loss Association of America-Twin Cities through the St. Louis Park Business
Council and staff has been working with these organizations on the installation of a
Hearing Induction Loop in the Council Chambers that provides a direct signal for people
with hearing loss. He then introduced Ms. Kim Fishman.
Ms. Kim Fishman introduced Mr. Rick Nelson, Loop Minnesota President; Mr. Dick
Davis, Loop Minnesota Treasurer; and Mr. Ross Hammond, Loop Minnesota Secretary.
Mr. Ross Hammond explained that the Hearing Induction Loop takes the signal from the
PA and routes it to a copper wire running around the room that people with telecoils can
pick up and the big advantage is that it shuts off the microphone in the hearing aid. He
expressed appreciation to the City for working with them on this project.
Ms. Monique Hammond presented a check for $1,000 from the Hearing Loss Association
of America-Twin Cities and stated she was currently listening through the loop and the
sound is crisp with no background noise. She thanked the City for getting involved and
for making the Council Chambers accessible to everyone. She introduced Mr. Bob
Knoll, HLAA-TC Treasurer, and Ms. Carole Blowers, past President of HLAA-TC.
Mr. Rick Nelson, Loop Minnesota President, presented a check to the City for $1,000.
Mayor Jacobs expressed the City Council’s thanks and appreciation for the donations.
City Council Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 3c) Page 2
Title: City Council Meeting Minutes June 2, 2014
2b. Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Coalition Update
Mr. Jason Gad, Southwest Twin Cities Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Coalition, thanked the
cities of St. Louis Park, Hopkins, Edina, and Minnetonka for being a part of the coalition
and providing resources to veterans.
Ms. Jocelyn Northenscold, Chair of the Southwest Twin Cities Beyond the Yellow
Ribbon Coalition, thanked the City for its support and stated they hope to raise awareness
about the Coalition over the summer months, including participation in local parades.
She indicated they are looking for volunteers for their programs and encouraged residents
to visit the website at www.swtcbeyondtheyellowribbon.org.
Ms. Heather Shue, Volunteer Liaison to the Coalition, stated the Coalition meets on the
third Thursday of the month at Hopkins City Hall and their next meeting is on June 19th.
2c. Retirement Recognition Resolution for Assistant Fire Chief Mark Windschitl
Mayor Jacobs recited the resolution recognizing the contributions of and expressing
appreciation to Assistant Fire Chief Mark Windschitl and presented a plaque to Mr.
Windschitl in recognition of his service from August 16, 1987 to May 30, 2014, and
expressed the City Council’s thanks to Mr. Windschitl for his years of service.
Mr. Windschitl stated it has been an honor to serve the community and it has been very
rewarding. He stated he has worked with some great people and he is very proud of the
work that went into building the new fire stations.
2d. 2013 Financial Statements – Auditors Presentation
Mr. Swanson presented the staff report and introduced David Mol, CPA.
Mr. Mol explained that five reports were issued at the conclusion of the 2013 audit that
resulted in a clean or unmodified opinion with no findings of noncompliance. He
congratulated the City on its receipt of the Government Finance Officers Association
2012 award for excellence in financial reporting and noted that the City has received this
award for the previous 30 years. He advised they did not audit the City’s internal
controls, rather, the report on internal controls is intended to identify where there are
material risks and there was one minor item noted regarding timing of reporting of the
City’s antenna lease revenue. He stated they sampled several transactions to test for
compliance with the Minnesota legal compliance audit guide and there were no findings
of noncompliance. He stated that a Federal single audit was required because the City
exceeded $500,000 in Federal funds during 2013 for the Highway 7/Louisiana Avenue
project and the FEMA grant and reported there were no findings of noncompliance. He
stated they are required to issue a communication to those charged with governance and
this report references a change regarding GASB No. 65 as well as an OPEB obligation of
$1.9 million. He stated they are also required to communicate any immaterial adjustments
that were not made and there was an understatement of property taxes receivable. He
advised they encountered no disagreements with management and no difficulties were
encountered in performing the audit.
Mayor Jacobs expressed the City Council’s thanks to Mr. Mol and the Finance
Department staff for their efforts.
City Council Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 3c) Page 3
Title: City Council Meeting Minutes June 2, 2014
Mr. Swanson stated that the financial statements will be posted on the City’s website this
week and residents may contact him if they have questions.
Mr. Harmening commended Mr. Swanson, Mr. Heintz, and the entire Finance
Department staff for doing a great job.
3. Approval of Minutes
3a. Study Session Minutes May 12, 2014
The minutes were approved as presented.
3b. City Council Meeting Minutes May 19, 2014
The minutes were approved as presented.
4. Approval of Agenda and Items on Consent Calendar
NOTE: The Consent Calendar lists those items of business which are considered to be routine and/or which need no
discussion. Consent items are acted upon by one motion. If discussion is desired by either a Councilmember or a
member of the audience, that item may be moved to an appropriate section of the regular agenda for discussion.
4a. Adopt Resolution No. 14-073 to recognize Assistant Fire Chief Mark Windschitl for
his 27 years of service to the City of St. Louis Park.
4b. Approve a Temporary On-Sale Intoxicating Liquor License for Parktacular, Inc., for
their Annual Parktacular Celebration Block Party to be held June 13, 2014, at the
Town Green located at Excelsior and Grand, 3815 Grand Way in St. Louis Park.
4c. Adopt Resolution No. 14-074 approving acceptance of a monetary donation from
Loop Minnesota and Hearing Loss Association of America in the amount of $1,000
each for the installation of a Hearing Induction Loop in the Council Chambers.
4d. Accept for filing City Disbursement Claims for the period of April 26 through May 23,
2014.
It was moved by Councilmember Mavity, seconded by Councilmember Sanger, to
approve the Agenda and items listed on the Consent Calendar; and to waive reading of
all resolutions and ordinances.
The motion passed 6-0 (Councilmember Brausen absent).
5. Boards and Commissions
5a. Appointment of Representative to the Human Rights Commission
It was moved by Councilmember Spano, seconded by Councilmember Mavity, to appoint
citizen representative Will Poulter as Youth Commissioner to the Human Rights
Commission for a term that expires August 31, 2015.
The motion passed 6-0 (Councilmember Brausen absent).
City Council Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 3c) Page 4
Title: City Council Meeting Minutes June 2, 2014
6. Public Hearings - None
7. Requests, Petitions, and Communications from the Public – None
8. Resolutions, Ordinances, Motions and Discussion Items
8a. Conditional Use Permit – D & D Autoworks. Resolution No. 14-075
Mr. Morrison presented the staff report and stated the applicant is proposing to construct
two additional service bays, add landscaping, screen the rooftop equipment, meet current
architectural materials regulations, and rescind the existing Special Permit in favor of the
proposed CUP. He stated the property has two access points with onsite parking around
the periphery of the property and some on-street parking on Wooddale. He presented a
survey of the site and stated the property meets all minimum required setbacks. He
advised that City Code requires four parking spaces per service bay for a total of 20
parking spaces and the applicant has provided a total of 24 parking spaces. He stated the
landscaping will be upgraded to meet the Ordinance with the addition of eight trees
planted on site and the remaining four trees contributed to the City to plant elsewhere; in
addition, the applicant will be providing shrubs and a fence to screen the property. He
introduced Mr. Will DuBois, owner, and Mr. Loni Strassman, project architect.
It was moved by Councilmember Sanger, seconded by Councilmember Lindberg, to adopt
Resolution No. 14-075 Rescinding Resolution No. 7042 and Granting Conditional Use
Permit Under Section 36-194(d)(3) of the St. Louis Park Ordinance Code Relating to
Zoning to Permit Construction of Addition for Property Zoned C-2 General Commercial
District Located at 6407 Lake Street.
The motion passed 6-0 (Councilmember Brausen absent).
8b. Preliminary/Final Plat of Frauenshuh Addition. Resolution No. 14-076
Mr. Morrison presented the staff report and stated that the unplatted site includes a bank
building on the west side and an imaging clinic on the east side and the applicant
proposes to split the parcel into two platted lots. He stated that the imaging clinic has
parking in front with access off Quentin Avenue and the bank is located on the south
portion of the site with a drive-through exiting onto Excelsior Boulevard. He stated there
is currently no sidewalk along Quentin Avenue and the proposed sidewalk is part of the
Connect the Park plan that will fill the gap in this neighborhood.
Councilmember Mavity requested clarification about the parking requirements and stated
she wanted to make sure that the parking ratios are in conformance now as well as in the
future in the event of redevelopment of the site adding she did not want to approve
anything that would limit future use of the site.
Mr. Morrison explained there are 33 parking spaces onsite for Lot 1 and the parking ratio
is one stall per 250 square feet, which is the standard ratio for office and retail uses.
Mr. Ross Hedlund, Frauenshuh, approached the City Council and stated there are cross
easements currently in place for parking so that if Lot 1 were redeveloped, there would
City Council Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 3c) Page 5
Title: City Council Meeting Minutes June 2, 2014
still be a cross easement for parking on Lot 2 and vice versa. He stated there are two
unrelated entities on the site and the current owner of the property will continue to own
Lot 1 and the building; Frauenshuh owns the building on Lot 2 and has a land lease and
they are buying out the land lease. He stated the easements go with the properties and
would continue with any redevelopment.
Ms. McMonigal pointed out that every time a new use comes through, City staff reviews
the proposal for parking and if there is not adequate parking provided, the proposed use
would not be allowed.
Mr. Morrison stated that under today’s standards, the parking ratios are most likely short
and if a new use were to come in, a legal nonconforming parking ratio cannot be made
worse by the new use; in this case, the parking is not made worse because of the cross
parking and access easements. He added that Lot 1 has rights for parking over Lot 2 and
vice versa and the recorded easement would run with the property.
It was moved by Councilmember Mavity, seconded by Councilmember Hallfin, to adopt
Resolution No. 14-076 Approving the Preliminary and Final Plat of Frauenshuh
Addition.
The motion passed 6-0 (Councilmember Brausen absent).
9. Communications
Mayor Jacobs reminded residents about Parktacular on June 13-15 and stated that buttons
are available at the Rec Center or City Hall and a schedule of events is available at
www.parktacular.org. He announced that the pool would be opening on Friday, June 6th.
Councilmember Spano stated that Channel 5 aired a story yesterday about the recent
flooding that featured Fire Chief Koering and several St. Louis Park residents who came
together to help their neighbors. He stated the City Manager and Fire Chief organized the
neighborhood efforts, including the CERT teams, who showed up in force and assisted
with sandbagging and expressed the City Council’s thanks to all the volunteers and to
City staff. He added that residents can call 911 if they need assistance with any flooding
issues and the dispatchers will route their call to the appropriate personnel.
10. Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:26 p.m.
______________________________________ ______________________________________
Nancy Stroth, City Clerk Jeff Jacobs, Mayor
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: June 16, 2014
Consent Agenda Item: 4a
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: Bid Tabulation: Sanitary Sewer – Rehabilitate Lift Station #1 – Project No. 4014-3000
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Motion to designate Minger Construction Inc. as the lowest
responsible bidder and authorize execution of a contract with them in the amount of $482,837.50
for the Sanitary Sewer Project – Rehabilitate Lift Station #1 – Project No. 4014-3000.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: Does the City Council wish to take the final step to allow this
project to move forward?
SUMMARY: This project involves construction of a new wet well outside of the curb line,
installation of a standby generator, and construction of a new control panel. Staff believes that
this work will ensure that Lift Station No. 1 operates efficiently and effectively for many
decades.
The existing lift station was built in 1964 and has three main issues. The first issue is an
undersized wet well, which causes the pump to cycle more often than recommended. The next
issue is that it doesn’t have a standby generator. This means that in an emergency situation, staff
is required to bring the portable generator to the site. The last issue with this station is that the
access is located within the roadway. Maintenance of the existing lift station can create traffic
disruptions as well as create a safety concern for staff due to the location.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: This project has been programmed in the
Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for construction in 2014 using Sanitary Sewer Utility Funds. A
total of three (3) bids were received for this project. A summary of the bid results is as follows:
VISION CONSIDERATION: Not applicable.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: Discussion
Prepared by: Joseph Shamla, Engineering Project Manager
Reviewed by: Debra Heiser, Engineering Director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
CONTRACTOR BID AMOUNT
Minger Construction, Inc. $482,837.50
Lametti & Sons, Inc. $635,930.00
Geislinger and Sons $645,006.00
Engineer’s Estimate $499,187.27
City Council Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 4a) Page 2
Title: Bid Tabulation: Sanitary Sewer – Rehabilitate Lift Station #1 – Project No. 4014-3000
DISCUSSION
BACKGROUND: Sanitary Sewer Lift Station No. 1 (LS #1) is located near the intersection of
Natchez Avenue and the frontage road of County Road 25. The existing station consists of two
sanitary sewer pumps and electric controls. This station pumps sewage into the Metropolitan
Council Environmental Services (MCES) forcemain located on the south side of County Road
25. MCES is replacing the forcemain in this area in the summer of 2014.
This lift station was constructed in 1964 and has only had minor upgrades over the years. The
pumps were replaced in 2011. The new lift station will utilize the same pumps. The valves,
electrical controls, and wet well have reached their life expectancy and are susceptible to failure.
Also, the current station does not have a standby generator, so if the power goes out, a portable
generator must be brought to the site. Since the wet well is undersized and there is not a standby
generator – a power failure becomes an emergency situation for staff. Also, the wet well for the
existing lift station is located in the County Road 25 Frontage Road which makes it difficult to
maintain safely.
City staff and our consulting firm SEH, Inc. completed plans and specifications for LS #1. Bids
were solicited in the Sun Sailor and Finance and Commerce for contractors to pre-qualify for this
project. The prequalification was used to insure that the contractor for this project would have
experience with the installation of other lift stations with this complexity. In addition, plans and
specifications were posted on the City Website and are made available electronically via the
internet by our vendor QuestCDN.com. Email notification is provided to five minority
associations and final printed plans are made available for viewing at the AGC of Minnesota
Planroom and at City Hall.
PRESENT CONSIDERATIONS: Staff has reviewed all of the bids submitted and has
tabulated the results. From the review, staff recommends Minger Construction as the lowest
responsible bidder. Minger Construction is an experienced contractor that has worked for the
City before and has successfully completed previous contracts.
NEXT STEPS: Construction is tentatively planned to begin in late June and is expected to be
completed in November.
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: June 16, 2014
Consent Agenda Item: 4b
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: Accept Monetary Donations to Westwood Hills Nature Center
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Motion to Adopt Resolution approving acceptance of monetary
donations of $755 from Joan Stenberg and $25 from Leslie Marcus for a memorial bench in
memory of Bee Dickson at Westwood Hills Nature Center; and $20 from Charles Watson and
$134.62 from Boy Scout Troop 738 for Westwood Hills Nature Center programs.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: Does the City Council wish to accept these gifts with
restrictions on their use?
SUMMARY: State statute requires City Council’s acceptance of donations. This requirement is
necessary in order to make sure the City Council has knowledge of any restrictions placed on the
use of each donation prior to it being expended.
Joan Stenberg graciously donated $755 to Westwood Hills Nature Center. The donation is given
with the restriction that it be used at Westwood Hills Nature Center for a memorial bench in
memory of Bee Dickson.
Leslie Marcus graciously donated $25 to Westwood Hills Nature Center. The donation is given
with the restriction that it be used at Westwood Hills Nature Center for a memorial bench in
memory of Bee Dickson.
Charles Watson graciously donated $20 to Westwood Hills Nature Center. The donation is
given with the restriction that it be used for Westwood Hills Nature Center programs.
Troop 738 graciously donated $134.62 to Westwood Hills Nature Center. The donation is given
with the restriction that it be used for Westwood Hills Nature Center programs.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: These donations will be used at Westwood
Hills Nature Center for a memorial bench in memory of Bee Dickson and for Westwood Hills
Nature Center programs.
VISION CONSIDERATION: St. Louis Park is committed to being a connected and engaged
community.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: Resolution
Prepared by: Stacy M. Voelker, Administrative Secretary
Mark Oestreich, Westwood Hills Nature Center Manager
Reviewed by: Cindy Walsh, Director of Operations & Recreation
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
City Council Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 4b) Page 2
Title: Accept Monetary Donations to Westwood Hills Nature Center
RESOLUTION NO. 14-____
RESOLUTION APPROVING ACCEPTANCE OF DONATION
OF $780 TO BE USED AT WESTWOOD HILLS NATURE CENTER
FOR A MEMORIAL BENCH IN MEMORY OF BEE DICKSON
AND DONATION OF $154.62 TO BE USED FOR
WESTWOOD HILLS NATURE CENTER PROGRAMMING
WHEREAS, The City of St. Louis Park is required by State statute to authorize
acceptance of any donations; and
WHEREAS, the City Council must also ratify any restrictions placed on the donation by
the donor; and
WHEREAS, the following donations will be used for a memorial bench in memory of
Bee Dickson at Westwood Hills Nature Center:
• Joan Stenberg donation of $755
• Leslie Marcus donation of $25
WHEREAS, the following donations will be used for a Westwood Hills Nature Center
programming:
• Charles Watson donation of $20
• Boy Scout Troop 738 donation of $134.62
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of St. Louis
Park that the gifts are hereby accepted with thanks to Joan Stenberg, Leslie Marcus, Charles
Watson and Boy Scout Troop 738 with the understanding that they must be used at Westwood
Hills Nature Center for a memorial bench in memory of Bee Dickson and for Westwood Hills
Nature Center programming.
Reviewed for Administration Adopted by the City Council June 16, 2014
Thomas Harmening, City Manager Jeff Jacobs, Mayor
Attest:
Nancy Stroth, City Clerk
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: June 16, 2014
Consent Agenda Item: 4c
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: Accept Donation for Memorial Bench at Parkview Park in Memory of Laurel Ann
Mickelson
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Motion to Adopt Resolution approving acceptance of a
monetary donation from Robert Estes in the amount of $2,200 for the purchase and installation
of a memorial bench in memory of Laurel Ann Mickelson. The bench will be installed in
Parkview Park.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: Does the City Council wish to accept the gift with restrictions
on its use?
SUMMARY: State statute requires City Council’s acceptance of donations. This requirement is
necessary in order to make sure the City Council has knowledge of any restrictions placed on the
use of each donation prior to it being expended.
Mr. Robert Estes graciously donated an amount of $2,200 to honor Laurel Ann Mickelson, a
lifelong resident of St. Louis Park. The donation is given with the restriction that it be used to
purchase and install a bench in Parkview Park, close to Idaho Avenue.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: This donation will be used to purchase and
install a memorial bench in Parkview Park, close to Idaho Avenue.
VISION CONSIDERATION: St. Louis Park is committed to being a connected and engaged
community.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: Resolution
Prepared by: Stacy M. Voelker, Administrative Secretary
Rick Beane, Park Superintendent
Reviewed by: Cindy Walsh, Director of Operations & Recreation
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
City Council Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 4c) Page 2
Title: Accept Donation for Memorial Bench at Parkview Park in Memory of Laurel Ann Mickelson
RESOLUTION NO. 14 -____
RESOLUTION APPROVING ACCEPTANCE OF DONATION
OF $2,200 FOR A MEMORIAL BENCH IN PARKVIEW PARK
IN MEMORY OF LAUREL ANN MICKELSON
WHEREAS, The City of St. Louis Park is required by State statute to authorize
acceptance of any donations; and
WHEREAS, the City Council must also ratify any restrictions placed on the donation by
the donor; and
WHEREAS, Robert Estes desires to purchase a memorial bench for Laurel Ann
Mickelson to be installed in Parkview Park with a donation of $2,200; and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of St. Louis
Park that the gift is hereby accepted with thanks to Robert Estes with the understanding that it
must be used to purchase and install a memorial bench for Laurel Ann Mickelson in Parkview
Park.
Reviewed for Administration Adopted by the City Council June 16, 2014
Thomas Harmening, City Manager Jeff Jacobs, Mayor
Attest:
Nancy Stroth, City Clerk
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: June 16, 2014
Consent Agenda Item: 4d
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: Accept $500 Grant from Minneapolis Auto Club Foundation for Safety Camp
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Motion to Adopt Resolution approving acceptance of a grant
from the Minneapolis Auto Club Foundation for Safety in the amount of $500 for the purchase of
Safety Camp t-shirts as a part of the annual Safety Camp event.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: Does the City Council wish to accept the gift with restrictions
on its use?
SUMMARY: State statute requires City Council’s acceptance of donations. This requirement is
necessary in order to make sure the City Council has knowledge of any restrictions placed on the
use of each donation prior to it being expended.
The Minneapolis Auto Club Foundation for Safety has graciously awarded to the Operations and
Recreation Department a grant in the amount of $500. The grant is given for the St. Louis Park
Safety Camp program to purchase T-shirts for the annual Safety Camp event.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: This donation will be used to purchase T-
shirts for Safety Camp participants.
VISION CONSIDERATION: St. Louis Park is committed to being a connected and engaged
community.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: Resolution
Prepared by: Stacy M. Voelker, Administrative Secretary
Reviewed by: Cindy Walsh, Director of Operations & Recreation
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
City Council Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 4d) Page 2
Title: Accept $500 Grant from Minneapolis Auto Club Foundation for Safety Camp
RESOLUTION NO. 14-____
RESOLUTION APPROVING ACCEPTANCE OF A GRANT
FROM THE MINNEAPOLIS AUTO CLUB FOUNDATION
IN THE AMOUNT OF $500
TO PURCHASE T-SHIRTS FOR SAFETY CAMP PARTICIPANTS
WHEREAS, The City of St. Louis Park is required by State statute to authorize
acceptance of any donations; and
WHEREAS, the City Council must also ratify any restrictions placed on the donation by
the donor; and
WHEREAS, the Minneapolis Auto Club Foundation for Safety awarded the city a grant
in the amount of $500 to purchase T-shirts for safety camp participants; and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of St. Louis
Park that the gift is hereby accepted with thanks to Minneapolis Auto Club Foundation for Safety
with the understanding that it must be used to purchase t-shirts for safety camp participants.
Reviewed for Administration Adopted by the City Council June 16, 2014
Tom Harmening, City Manager Jeff Jacobs, Mayor
Attest:
Nancy Stroth, City Clerk
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: June 16, 2014
Consent Agenda Item: 4e
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: Approve Plans & Specs for Dakota Park Baseball Field (Derrick Keller field)
Improvements and Authorize Receipt of Bids
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Motion to Adopt Resolution accepting this report, establishing
and approving plans and specifications, and authorizing advertisement for bids for the Dakota
Park Baseball Field (Derrick Keller field) Renovation.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: Does the City Council wish to continue to move forward with
this project?
SUMMARY: The Dakota Park Baseball field is our main baseball field used by St Louis Park
High School along with many other groups. The current condition and playability of the field are
compromised due to poor soil and drainage conditions. This project will address those issues
along with other water issues in the general vicinity adjacent to the baseball field.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: There is $300,000 budgeted in the 2014
CIP budget for this project.
CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULE
Staff is suggesting the following schedule:
June 16, 2014 - City Council approval of plans and authorization to bid
June 19, 2014 - Advertise bids
July 15, 2014 - Bid opening
July 21, 2014 - City Council to review bid tab report and award contract
July 28, 2014 - Begin project
November 1, 2014 - Project completion
NEXT STEPS AND TIMELINES: If the City Council approves the plans and specifications
and authorizes bids, staff will receive bids on July 15, 2014. The Council will be asked to
approve the low bid and authorize the project to begin at its July 21, 2014 meeting. Project
construction will begin following Council approval and execution of an agreement.
VISION CONSIDERATION: Not applicable.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: Resolution
Prepared by: Rick Beane, Park Superintendent
Reviewed by: Cindy Walsh, Director of Operations and Recreation
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
City Council Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 4e) Page 2
Title: Approve Plans & Specs for Dakota Park Baseball Field Improvements & Authorize Receipt of Bids
RESOLUTION NO. 14-____
RESOLUTION ACCEPTING THE PROJECT REPORT,
APPROVING PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS,
AND AUTHORIZING ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park has received a report related
to the Dakota Park Baseball Field (Derrick Keller field) Renovation.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of St. Louis
Park, Minnesota, that:
1. Such improvement as proposed is necessary, cost effective, and feasible as detailed in the
Project Report.
2. The proposed project, designated as Project No. 20140020 is hereby established and
ordered.
3. The plans and specifications for the Dakota Park Baseball field, as prepared under the
direction of the Parks Superintendent, or designee, are approved.
4. The City Clerk shall prepare and cause to be inserted at least two weeks in the official
newspaper and at least one week in the Construction Bulletin, an advertisement for bids
for the making of said improvement under said-approved plans and specifications. The
advertisement shall appear not less than ten (10) days prior to the date and time of receipt
of bids, and specify the work to be done, state the date and time bids will be received by
the City Clerk, and that no bids will be considered unless sealed and filed with the City
Clerk and accompanied by a bid bond payable to the City for five (5) percent of the
amount of the bid.
5. The Parks Superintendent, or designee, shall report the receipt of bids to the City Council
shortly after the letting date. The report shall include a tabulation of the bid results and a
recommendation to the City Council.
Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the City Council June 16, 2014
Thomas Harmening, City Manager
Jeffrey Jacobs, Mayor
Attest:
Nancy Stroth, City Clerk
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: June 16, 2014
Consent Agenda Item: 4f
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: Asset Management Software Agreement
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Motion to enter into a 5-year agreement with Cartegraph in an
amount not to exceed $348,600, inclusive of annual maintenance fees of $47,000 per year, for
provision of software licensing and maintenance, hosted application services, and related
implementation / data conversion / integration services for use of Cartegraph’s asset management
product offerings by the City of St. Louis Park. The cost includes interfaces with Public
Stuff/My St. Louis Park.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: Does the Council wish to enter into an agreement to engage the
City of St. Louis Park’s use of Cartegraph’s asset management system?
SUMMARY: The City of St. Louis Park owns, manages and cares for almost $150 million in
infrastructure/assets – streets, utilities, parks, buildings, etc. Properly managing these assets is a
recommended best practice to optimally maintain and efficiently replace this infrastructure, and
provide analytics for cost reporting and forecasting. At the direction of the City Manager, the
Department of Operations & Recreation developed a Request for Proposal (RFP) for an asset
management system. Three vendors that were known to be able to best meet system
requirements indicated interest in submitting proposals and two actually did submit complete
proposals. Product demonstrations were held, existing customers contacted or visited, and
pricing compared. The end result of that process is the recommendation that the City enter into
an agreement with Cartegraph for provision of its OMS asset management system. The system is
primarily cloud based (system servers hosted offsite using Internet access), with the GIS
component installed locally at City Hall. The proposal also includes conversion of some existing
data used by Operations & Recreation. The agreement would include payments to Cartegraph
based on implementation milestones, and software and hosting fees upon total city acceptance of
the project. The project is expected to take 6 months to implement. While assets targeted to be
managed initially include primarily street assets, underground utilities, and parks, the Cartegraph
system is also capable of managing other assets including buildings and other facilities. The
needs of Engineering have also been included through Engineering Department staff
involvement in the selection process.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: Funds for acquisition of a replacement
asset management system have been included in the 2014 Capital Improvement Program
($300,000 in 2014 plus $75,000 in maintenance through 2019). Costs for the alternative vendor
(Cityworks) were estimated to be $464,685, compared to Cartegraph’s $348,600.
VISION CONSIDERATION: Not applicable.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: None
Prepared by: Clint Pires, Chief Information Officer
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: June 16, 2014
Consent Agenda Item: 4g
OFFICIAL MINUTES OF MARCH 27, 2014
BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS
CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK
The St. Louis Park Board of Zoning Appeals conducted a meeting on March 27, 2014, at St.
Louis Park City Hall, 5005 Minnetonka Boulevard, St. Louis Park, Minnesota – Council
Chambers.
Members Present: Susan Bloyer, James Gainsley, Justin Kaufman
Members Absent: Paul Roberts, Henry Solmer
Staff Present: Gary Morrison, Assistant Zoning Administrator
Nancy Sells, Administrative Secretary
1. CALL TO ORDER – ROLL CALL
Chair Bloyer called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF AUGUST 22, 2013
Commissioner Gainsley made a motion to approve the minutes of August 22, 2013. The
motion passed on a vote of 2-0-1 (Bloyer abstained).
3. CONSENT AGENDA
4. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Variance: Berth Screening Requirements
Location: 5100 West 35th Street
Applicant: Ryan Politz (RJ Marco Construction, Inc.)
Case No.: 14-05-VAR
Gary Morrison, Assistant Zoning Administrator, presented the staff report. He explained
that the proposal is for the addition of six new loading berths (docks) to an existing
building. There are 10 existing loading berths. The variance is requested to allow the six
additional berths to be constructed without bringing the property into complete
compliance with the screening requirements for loading docks and berths. The proposal
is to construct a 12 foot, eight inch tall wall that will extend 38 feet from the building.
The remaining screening would consist of vegetation as shown in the revised exhibit.
Mr. Morrison said the landscaping plan has been revised. The planting of additional
conifers was requested by staff and the revised plan was approved by the city’s
Environmental Coordinator.
City Council Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 4g) Page 2
Title: Board of Zoning Appeals Minutes March 27, 2014
Mr. Morrison presented his analysis of the criteria for granting variances found in Section
36-34 of the Zoning Ordinance. He stated staff found all criteria were satisfied and staff
recommended adoption of the resolution approving the requested variance for the six
additional truck berths. Mr. Morrison added that the intent of the reference to trucks in
Condition No. 3 of the resolution is for semi-trucks, and it should be revised to semi-
trucks.
Commissioner Kaufman stated that his concern did not regard construction. He said he
wondered if the additional bays would increase traffic in the area. He commented that
when he went to look at the property there were two idling semis parked on W. 35th St.
directly in front of the building. He said he wondered about the purpose of the wall or
landscaping if trucks are going to be outside the property on a regular basis.
Mr. Morrison remarked that was a concern that staff had initially. He said a discussion
started with the applicant about a year ago about the truck traffic and additional berths
and impact on the neighborhood. He said the vast majority of the deliveries occur at night
so the truck volume is no longer a concern for staff. He said the applicant could speak to
daytime traffic.
Chair Bloyer asked if rain gardens are considered to be an easement.
Mr. Morrison responded that rain gardens are required by the city and Watershed District
but are not encumbered by an easement.
Chair Bloyer opened the public hearing.
Ryan Politz, RJ Marco Construction, Inc., said in answer to Commission Kaufman’s
concern about trucks parking, the additional docks will help with that traffic so semis can
be parked at the docks. He said the whole intent is to get the operation to run better inside
by taking deliveries in staging. There won’t be an increase in vehicle traffic and there will
be more places for the same number of vehicles.
Commissioner Gainsley asked how the traffic pattern will be adjusted so it won’t cause a
problem for the neighborhood and the site.
Mr. Politz said the additional docks would be used to bring the trucks in.
Mr. Morrison stated that trucks are parking on the street because they are waiting for a
berth to open.
Commissioner Kaufman said when he was there only one bay was being used and two
trucks were on the street. He said it doesn’t seem like trucks can get in every bay.
Mr. Politz said part of it has to do with staging and the new docks will provide more
staging.
Mr. Morrison commented that in an Industrial Park like this there are rarely complaints
and he has yet to receive a complaint on Belt Line for anything other than outside
storage.
City Council Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 4g) Page 3
Title: Board of Zoning Appeals Minutes March 27, 2014
Commissioner Kaufman asked about landscaping and the ability to reduce noise. He
added this might not be an issue at that location but he wondered about future
development with SW LRT.
Mr. Morrison responded that the noise question was never raised. But as the area
becomes denser, the noise of increased traffic and truck traffic could be a concern. He
added that square footage is not being added. The additional berths will make internal
movement more efficient. He said the issue of multiple tenants was discussed with the
applicant in terms of future planning. He said the current tenant has signed a long term
lease.
As no one else was present wishing to speak, Chair Bloyer closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Gainsley said he liked the plan and found it to be usable. He added that he
couldn’t think of a way to condition the variance to include enforcement regarding
parking.
Mr. Morrison said it is not uncommon for a truck to be parked on the street in an
Industrial Park zone. It is legal as long as it isn’t posted for no-parking. If it becomes a
problem, which happens occasionally throughout the city in all zoning districts, it can be
brought to the City Council with a request for parking restrictions.
Commissioner Gainsley made a motion to adopt a resolution approving a variance to not
install a 10 foot screening wall for the berths, with conditions as recommended by staff.
The motion was approved on a vote of 3-0.
5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
6. NEW BUSINESS
a. Election of Officers
Susan Bloyer made a motion nominating James Gainsley for Chair. The motion
was approved 3-0.
James Gainsley made a motion nominating Susan Bloyer for Vice Chair. The
motion was approved 3-0.
7. COMMUNICATIONS
8. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 6:35 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Nancy Sells
Administrative Secretary
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: June 16, 2014
Consent Agenda Item: 4h
MINUTES
ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION: SUSTAINABLE SLP
ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
May 7, 2014
Community Room, City Hall
MEMBERS PRESENT: Terry Gips, Rachel Harris, Whitney Thesing, Mark Eilers, Ryan Griffin,
Chris Anderson, Tom Hillstrom, Renee McGarvey, Cindy Larson O’Neil, Judy Voigt
MEMBERS ABSENT: Mary Karius (excused), Caitlin Glennon (excused), Alex Sundvall
(excused)
STAFF PRESENT: Bridget Gothberg
CONSULTANTS: Mike Lamb, Barr Engineering Company
GUEST: Chris Velasco, President of PLACE
1. The meeting was called to order at 6:32 p.m.
2. Roll Call was taken
3. April meeting minutes were moved by Commissioner Anderson and seconded by
Commissioner Eilers and unanimously approved.
4. Communications:
a. Commissioner Glennon sent her thanks for support on the loss of their friend
Evan.
b. Commissioners Glennon and Sundvall invite all of the Commissioners to attend
the High School Band concert.
c. Commissioner McGarvey shared information on Form Based Zoning and the
SWLRT.
d. Commissioner Eilers shared information on Health in the Park (HIP) and would
like it if the commissioners can get an update at a future time.
5. Unfinished Business
The Chart sent by Phil Elkin was discussed. Commissioner Gips requested updates from
the Green Cities as the staff moves forward. He would like all of the commissioners to
learn from each staff work group. He requested that we have a baseline of information
from staff who work on areas that match the work plan. He indicated that it is necessary
to know what is happening with staff so the commissioners can assist.
It was moved by Commissioner Gips and seconded by Commissioner Griffin to request
that City staff update the Commission on the current state of the City’s progress on Green
Steps and other areas that match the Commission Work Plan, sharing plans, goals and
City Council Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 4h) Page 2
Title: Environment and Sustainability Commission: Sustainable SLP Meeting Minutes of May 7, 2014
how the Commission can support the efforts of staff. The review with staff will be
completed by the end of the summer. The motion was unanimously approved.
As time goes on, they would also like a “Meet and Greet” time prior to the meeting to
connect with staff and build relationships.
6. New Business: Each Work Group reported on the area it is working on:
Reduce Carbon Emissions – No report. It was suggested that they would like to unite
with the Energy Group. The Commissioners thought this was a good idea.
Environmentally Preferred Purchasing – They are still researching and are active.
Commissioner Griffin will be doing some of the research.
Energy – They were setting their next meeting after the Commission meeting. The
Carbon Emissions group will be joining them.
Sustainable SLP – The have plans to meet with Jamie Zwilling.
Solid Waste – Mary Karius is the only one in this group. Nothing more has happened.
Water Resources – Whitney is working on a plan and some brainstorming.
Education and Behavior Change – They are looking at doing an ECO Fair for
Parktacular; looking at workshops for this fall; working to move forward the MN Energy
Challenge; talking with someone from Hamline University; looking at videos; some are
doing STEP TO IT.
7. Chair Harris adjourned the meeting at 8:35.
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: June 16, 2014
Public Hearing Agenda Item: 6a
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: 2013 Annual MS4 Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) Meeting
RECOMMENDED ACTION: None at this time. Each year the City is required to hold a
public meeting to provide an opportunity for residents to review and comment on its Storm
Water Pollution Prevention Plan and its storm water management program. This agenda item
serves to meet this requirement.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: Does the City Council have questions or concerns regarding
the City’s storm water management program?
SUMMARY: The purpose of this report is to provide the Council with a summary of
stormwater activities conducted in 2013 and to solicit comments from the public on the operation
and management of stormwater throughout the City of St. Louis Park as a part of the City’s
Municipal Separate Stormwater System (MS4) permit.
The City of St. Louis Park has a permit with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA)
for the discharge of stormwater from the city. This permit is required based on the 1987
amendment to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Clean Water Act, through the
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). St Louis Park, along with 229 other
Minnesota cities, is permitted as a Municipal Separate Stormwater System (MS4).
As a part of the MS4 permit, the City is required to hold a public meeting in which residents
have an opportunity to review the City’s Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) and
comment on its stormwater management program. These comments are then recorded and
considered for incorporation in the City’s SWPPP. In the past this meeting has been held by staff
separate from regular City Council meetings, but has been included in the Council’s agenda this
year to hopefully increase participation and awareness of the SWPPP.
In August of 2013, the MPCA approved a new permit for the MS4 SWPPP program. With these
changes, the City will need to revise its’ SWPPP in the next year to be in compliance with the
stormwater permit. These revisions include updating the illicit discharge and erosion control
ordinances, develop new enforcement response procedures, revise stormwater treatment
requirements and determine the effectiveness of the City’s stormwater treatment system.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: Not applicable at this time.
VISION CONSIDERATION: 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.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: MS4 Annual Report
2013 SWPPP Activity Highlights
Prepared by: Phillip Elkin, Sr. Project Manager
Reviewed by: Debra M Heiser, Engineering Director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
www.pca.state.mn.us • 651-296-6300 • 800-657-3864 • TTY 651-282-5332 or 800-657-3864 • Available in alternative formats
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MS4 Annual Report for 2013
Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4s)
Reporting period January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2013
Due June 30, 2014
Doc Type: Permitting Annual Report
Instructions: By completing this mandatory MS4 Annual Report form, you are providing the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
(MPCA) with a summary of your status of compliance with permit conditions, including an assessment of the appropriateness of your
identified best management practices (BMPs) and progress towards achieving your identified measurable goals for each of the
minimum control measures as required by the MS4 Permit (permit). If a permittee determines that program status or compliance with
the permit can not be adequately reflected within the structure of this form additional explanation and/or information may be referenced
in an attachment. This form has limitations and provides only a snap shot of your compliance with the conditions in the permit. After
reviewing the information, MPCA staff may need to contact the permittee to clarify or seek additional information.
Submittal: This MS4 Annual Report must be submitted electronically to the MPCA using the submit button at the end of the form,
from the person that is duly authorized to certify this form. All questions with an asterisk (*) are required fields (these fields also
have a red border), and must be completed before the form will send. A manual confirmation e-mail will be sent in response to
electronic submissions. If you do not receive an e-mail confirmation within two business days, please contact the program staff
below. (If the submit button does work for you, you can save a copy of the form to a location on your computer where you will easily
be able to retrieve it. You will then have to attach the form separately to an e-mail once you are within your Internet mail.)
If you have further questions, please contact one of these MPCA staff members (toll-free 800-657-3864):
Scott Fox 651-757-2368 scott.fox@state.mn.us
Claudia Hochstein 651-757-2881 claudia.hochstein@state.mn.us
Cole Landgraf 651-757-2880 cole.landgraf@state.mn.us
Dan Miller 651-757-2246 daniel.miller@state.mn.us
Rachel Stangl 651-757-2879 rachel.stangl@state.mn.us
General Contact Information (*Required fields)
*Name of MS4:*Contact name:
*Mailing address:
*City:*State:*Zip code:
*Phone (including area code):*E-mail:
Minimum Control Measure 1: Public Education and Outreach [V.G.1](*Required fields)
A. The permit requires each permittee to implement a public education program to distribute educational materials to the
community or conduct equivalent outreach activities about the impacts of stormwater discharges on water bodies and steps
that the public can take to reduce pollutants in stormwater runoff. [Part V.G.1.a]
Note:Indicate which of the following distribution methods you used. Indicate the number distributed in the spaces provided
(enter “0” if the method was not used or “NA” if the data does not exist):
Media type Number of media Number of times published
Circulation/
Audience
Example: Brochures: 3 different brochures published 5 times about 10,000
Brochures:
Newsletter:
Posters:
Newspaper articles:
Utility bill inserts:
Radio ads:
Television ads:
Cable Access Channel:
Other:
Other:
Other:
City of St. Louis Park Phillip Elkin
5005 Minnetonka Boulevard
St. Louis Park MN 55416
952-924-2687 pelkin@stlouispark.org
4 different brouchures ongoing avaliability 1,000
2 articles in Park Perspective 3 times a year 13,000
Metro Watershed Partners
Metro Watershed Partners
Metro Watershed Partners
Rain Garden Workshop
City Website ongoing
City Council Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 6a)
Title: 2013 Annual MS4 Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) Meeting Page 2
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B. *Do you use a website as a tool to distribute stormwater educational materials?Yes No
What is the URL:
C. If you answered yes in question B. above, do you track hits to the site?Yes No
How many hits were to the stormwater page?:
D. *Did you hold stormwater related events, presentations to schools or other such activities?Yes No
If yes, describe:
E. *Have specific messages been developed and distributed during this reporting year for Minimum Control Measure (MCM):
MCM 1: Yes No MCM 4: Yes No
MCM 2: Yes No MCM 5: Yes No
MCM 3: Yes No MCM 6:Yes No
F. *Have you developed partnerships with other MS4s, watershed districts, local or state
governments, educational institutions, etc., to assist you in fulfilling the requirements for MCM 1?
Yes No
G. List those entities with which you have partnered to meet the requirements of this MCM and
describe the nature of the agreement(s). Attach a separate sheet if necessary:
H. *Have you developed methods to assess the effectiveness of your public education/outreach
program?
Yes No
If yes, describe:
Minimum Control Measure 2: Public Participation/Involvement [V.G.2] (*Required fields)
A. The permit requires you to hold at least one public meeting per year addressing the Stormwater
Pollution Prevention Program. You must hold the public meeting prior to submittal to the
Commissioner of the annual report. [Part V.G.1.e.]
B. *Did you hold a public meeting to present accomplishments and to discuss your Stormwater
Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP)?
Yes No
If no, explain:
C. *What was the date of the public meeting:
D. *How many citizens attended specifically for stormwater (excluding board/council members and
staff/hired consultants)?
E. *Was the public meeting a stand-alone meeting for stormwater or was it combined with some
other function (City Council meeting, other public event, etc.)?
Stand-alone
Combined
F. *Each permittee must solicit and consider input from the public prior to submittal of the annual
report. Did you receive written and/or oral input on your SWPPP? [Part V.G.2.b.1-3]
Yes No
G. *Have you revised your SWPPP in response to written or oral comments received from the
public since the last annual reporting cycle? [Part V.G.2.c]
Yes No
If yes, describe. Attach a separate sheet if necessary:
Wooddale Nature Center holds presentations on basic
06/16/2014
City Council Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 6a)
Title: 2013 Annual MS4 Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) Meeting Page 3
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Minimum Control Measure 3: Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination [V.G.3] (*Required fields)
The permit requires permittees to develop, implement, and enforce a program to detect and eliminate illicit discharges as defined
in 40 CFR 122.26(b)(2). You must also select and implement a program of appropriate BMPs and measurable goals for this
minimum control measure.
A. *Did you update your storm sewer system map?Yes No
If yes, please explain which components (ponds, pipes, outfalls, waterbodies, etc.) were
updated/added:
Note: The storm sewer system map was to be completed by June 30, 2008. [Part V.G.3.a]
B. *Have you modified the format in which the map is available?Yes No
C. If yes, indicate the new format:Hardcopy only GIS system CAD
Other system:
D. *Did you inspect for illicit discharges during the reporting year?Yes No
E. If you answered yes in question D. above, did you identify any illicit discharges?Yes No
F. If you answered yes in question E. above, how many illicit discharges were detected during the
reporting period?
G. If you answered yes in question E. above, did the illicit discharge result in an enforcement action?Yes No
If yes, what type of enforcement action(s) was taken (check all that apply):
Verbal warning Notice of violation Fines Criminal action Civil penalties
Other (describe):
Minimum Control Measure 4: Construction Site Stormwater Runoff [V.G.4] (*Required fields)
The permit requires that each permittee develop, implement, and enforce a program to reduce pollutants in any stormwater runoff
to your small MS4 from construction activities within your jurisdiction that result in a land disturbance of equal to or greater than
one acre, including the disturbance of less than one acre of total land area that is part of a larger common plan of development or
sale if the larger common plan will ultimately disturb one or more acres. [Part V.G.4.]
A. The permit requires an erosion and sediment control ordinance or regulatory mechanism that must include sanctions to
ensure compliance and contains enforcement mechanisms [Part V.G.4.a]. Indicate which of the following enforcement
mechanisms are contained in your ordinance or regulatory mechanism and the number of actions taken for each
mechanism used during the reporting period (enter “0” if the method was not used or “NA” if the data does not exist).
Check all that apply.
Enforcement mechanism Number of actions
Verbal warnings #
Notice of violation #
Administrative orders #
Stop-work orders #
Fines #
Forfeit of security of bond money #
Withholding of certificate of occupancy #
Criminal actions #
Civil penalties #
Other:#
B. *Have you developed written procedures for site inspections?Yes No
C. *Have you developed written procedures for site enforcement?Yes No
23
City Council Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 6a)
Title: 2013 Annual MS4 Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) Meeting Page 4
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D. *Identify the number of active construction sites greater than an acre in your jurisdiction during
the 2013 calendar year:
E. *On average, how frequently are construction sites inspected (e.g., weekly, monthly, etc.)?
F. *How many inspectors, at any time, did you have available to verify erosion and sediment control
compliance at construction sites during the reporting period?
Minimum Control Measure 5: Post-construction Stormwater Management in New Development
and Redevelopment [V.G.5] (*Required fields)
The permit requires each permittee to develop, implement, and enforce a program to address stormwater runoff from new
development and redevelopment projects within your jurisdiction that disturb an area greater than or equal to one acre, including
projects less than one acre that are part of a larger common plan of development or sale that discharge into your small MS4. Your
program must ensure that controls are in place that would prevent or reduce water quality impacts. You must also select and
implement a program of appropriate BMPs and measurable goals for this minimum control measure.
Note: The MS4 permit requirements associated with this minimum control measure were required to be fully developed and
implemented by June 30, 2008.
A. *Have you established design standards for stormwater treatment BMPs installed as a result of
post-construction requirements?
Yes No
B. *Have you developed procedures for site plan review which incorporate consideration of water
quality impacts?
Yes No
C. *How many projects have you reviewed during the reporting period to ensure adequate long-
term operation and maintenance of permanent stormwater treatment BMPs installed as a result
of post-construction requirements? [Part V.G.5.b.and Part V.G.5.c].
D. *Do plan reviewers use a checklist when reviewing plans?Yes No
E. *How are you funding the long-term operation and maintenance of your stormwater
management system? (Check all that apply)
Grants Stormwater utility fee Taxes
Other:
Minimum Control Measure 6: Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping for Municipal
Operations [V.G.6] (*Required fields)
The permit requires each permittee to develop and implement an operation and maintenance program that includes a training
component and has the ultimate goal of preventing or reducing pollutant runoff from municipal operations. Your program must
include employee training to prevent and reduce stormwater pollution from activities, such as park and open space maintenance,
fleet and building maintenance, new construction and land disturbances, and stormwater system maintenance.
A. *The permit requires each permittee to inspect annually all structural pollution control devices,
such as trap manholes, grit chambers, sumps, floatable skimmers and traps, separators, and
other small settling or filtering devices [Part V.G.6.b.2)]
B. *Did you inspect all structural pollution control devices during the reporting period?Yes No
C.*Have you developed an alternate inspection frequency for any structural pollution control
devices? [V.G.6.b.7)]
Yes No
*Indicate the total number of structural pollution control devices for which you have developed
and alternative inspection frequency:
D. *Indicate the total number of structural pollution control devices (for example-grit chambers,
sumps, floatable skimmers, etc.) within your MS4, the total number that were inspected during
the reporting period, and calculate the percent inspected. Enter “0” if your MS4 does not contain
structural pollution control devices or none were inspected. Enter “NA” if the data does not
exist:
*Total number *Number inspected *Percentage
*Structural pollution control devices:
E. *Did you repair, replace, or maintain any structural pollution control devices?Yes No
Weekly
2
4
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City Council Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 6a)
Title: 2013 Annual MS4 Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) Meeting Page 5
www.pca.state.mn.us • 651-296-6300 • 800-657-3864 • TTY 651-282-5332 or 800-657-3864 • Available in alternative formats
wq-strm4-06 • 12/19/13 Page 5 of 5
F. *For each BMP below, indicate the total number within your MS4, how many of each BMP type
were inspected and the percent inspected during the reporting period. Enter “0” if your MS4
does not contain BMPs or none were inspected. Enter “NA” if the data does not exist:
Structure/Facility type *Total number *Number inspected *Percentage
*Outfalls to receiving waters:
*Sediment basins/ponds:
*Total
G. Of the BMPs inspected in F.. above, did you include any privately owned BMPs in that number?Yes No
H. If yes in G.. above, how many:
Section 7: Impaired Waters Review (*Required fields)
The permit requires any permittee whose MS4 discharges to a Water of the State, which appears on the current U. S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved list of impaired waters under Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act, review
whether changes to the SWPPP may be warranted to reduce the impact of your discharge [Part IV.D].
A. *Does your MS4 discharge to any waters listed as impaired on the state 303 (d) list?Yes No
B. *Have you modified your SWPPP in response to an approved Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL)?Yes No
If yes, indicate for which TMDL:
Section 8: Additional SWPPP Issues (*Required fields)
A. *Did you make a change to any BMPs or measurable goals in your SWPPP since your last
report? [Part VI.D.3.]
Yes No
B. If yes, briefly list the BMPs or any measurable goals using their unique SWPPP identification
numbers that were modified in your SWPPP, and why they were modified:(Attach a separate
sheet if necessary)
C.*Did you rely on any other entities (MS4 permittees, consultants, or contractors) to implement
any portion of your SWPPP? [Part VI.D.4.]
Yes No
If yes,please identify them and list activities they assisted with:
Owner or Operator Certification (*Required fields)
The person with overall administrative responsibility for SWPPP implementation and permit compliance must certify this MS4
Annual Report. This person must be duly authorized and should be either a principal executive (i.e., Director of Public Works, City
Administrator) or ranking elected official (i.e., Mayor, Township Supervisor).
*Yes -I certify under penalty of law that this document and all attachments were prepared under my direction or
supervision in accordance with a system designed to assure that qualified personnel properly gathered and evaluated the
information submitted. Based on my inquiry of the person or persons who manage the system, or those persons directly
responsible for gathering the information, the information submitted is, to the best of my knowledge and belief, true,
accurate, and complete (Minn. R. 7001.0070). I am aware that there are significant penalties for submitting false
information, including the possibility of fine and imprisonment (Minn. R. 7001.0540).
*Name of certifying official:
*Title:*Date:
(mm/dd/yyyy)
224 224 100
29 29 100
253 253 100
Submit
City Council Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 6a)
Title: 2013 Annual MS4 Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) Meeting Page 6
2013 Storm Water Activity Highlights
MMC‐1 Public Education and Outreach Activities
Westwood Environmental Center Educational Programs
Storm Water Web Site 102 site visits
Metro Blooms Raingarden Workshop
Metro Watershed Partners & The Clean Water Media Campaign
Eco Fair @ Parktacular
Spring Landscape Workshops
Information Booths
Staffed booth with displays and brochures at 8 Events, 4 different brochures
MMC‐2 Public Involvement and Participation
CAMP (Citizen‐Assisted Monitoring Program) Seasonal samples at selected water bodies
Volunteer Opportunities for Minnehaha Creek Cleanup
Beautify the Park
Formed the Environment and Sustainability Commission
MMC‐3 Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination
City staff continually monitors as they travel throughout the city performing their
routine activities
MMC‐4 Construction Site Storm Water Run‐off Control
Erosion Control Permits
o 33 active permits – 11 Commercial sites 22 Residential sites
Weekly Erosion Control Inspections – increased if rainfall exceeds .25 inches
22 correction notices issued
3 Permits were over 1 acre
MMC‐5 Post Construction Runoff Control
Requirements for onsite storage and treatment of stormwater
Monitor ponds and outlets
MMC‐6 Pollution Prevention/Good Housekeeping for Municipal Operations
Over 100 structures repaired/rebuilt each year
Outlet cleaning as part of maintenance and inspection
Annual scheduled street sweeping at least 2 times a year
Problem outlets are inspected weekly
Crew of 3 dedicated to catch basin/outlet inspection and repairs
City Council Meeting of June 16, 2014 (Item No. 6a)
Title: 2013 Annual MS4 Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) Meeting Page 7