HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013/12/02 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - City Council - Regular
AGENDA
DECEMBER 2, 2013
6:00 p.m. CLOSED EXECUTIVE SESSION – Westwood Room
Discussion Items
1. 6:00 p.m. City Manager Performance Evaluation
7:30 p.m. CITY COUNCIL MEETING – Council Chambers
1. Call to Order
1a. Pledge of Allegiance
1b. Roll Call
2. Presentations -- None
3. Approval of Minutes
3a. Special Study Session Minutes November 4, 2013
3b. Study Session Minutes November 12, 2013
3a. City Council Meeting Minutes November 18, 2013
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. 2014 Proposed Budget, Tax Levy and Truth in Taxation Public Hearing
Recommended Action:
• Information will be presented at the meeting pertaining to the 2014 property tax
supported budgets, 2014 Preliminary Property Tax Levy, and other general tax and
budgetary information.
• After the presentation, the Mayor is asked to open the public hearing, solicit
comments and close the public hearing. There is no other formal action required at
this meeting.
7. Requests, Petitions, and Communications from the Public -- None
8. Resolutions, Ordinances, Motions and Discussion Items
8a. M.G.M. Off Sale Liquor License
Recommended Action: Motion to approve Off Sale Intoxicating Liquor License for
M.G.M. of St. Louis Park, LLC, dba MGM Wine and Spirits, located at 8100 Highway
7, Unit #348, for the license term through March 1, 2014.
Meeting of December 2, 2013
City Council Agenda
8b. Louisiana Station Area Framework Plan and Design Guidelines Report
Recommended Action: Motion to accept the Louisiana Station Area Framework and
Design Guidelines report.
8c. Business Park Rezoning of Properties near Hwy 7 & Louisiana Ave. S., Wooddale Ave.
S., and Belt Line Blvd.
Recommended Action: Motion to approve First Reading to rezone 42 properties for
Business Park zoning and set second reading for December 16, 2013.
8d. SWLRT Station Area Form-Based Code Grant Contract.
Recommended Action: Motion to Authorize the Mayor and City Manager to execute
a contract with CodaMetrics to develop and write a form-based code for the three St.
Louis Park Southwest Light Rail Transit (SWLRT) station areas.
9. Communication
Meeting of December 2, 2013
City Council Agenda
CONSENT CALENDAR
4a. Adopt Resolution approving acceptance of monetary donations from Independent
School District 283 ($5,000), Churchill Plastics ($5,000), St. Louis Park Dugout
Club/Family and Friends of the Baseball Community ($3,500) and the St. Louis Park
Hockey Association ($1,000) for a new scoreboard at Dakota Park.
4b. Adopt Resolution approving acceptance of a monetary donation from Leslie Marcus
in the amount of $100 for Westwood Hills Nature Center.
4c. Approve for filing Environment & Sustainability Commission Meeting Minutes
October 2, 2013.
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.
Auxiliary aids for individuals with disabilities are available upon request. To make arrangements, please call
the Administration Department at 952/924-2525 (TDD 952/924-2518) at least 96 hours in advance of meeting.
Meeting: City Council Closed Executive Session
Meeting Date: December 2, 2013
Discussion Item: 1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: City Manager Performance Evaluation
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Lynae Steinhagen, Consultant, will review the information
from the annual performance review for Tom Harmening, City Manager. Council will discuss
the information from the evaluation process and set general direction for work for 2014.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: Not applicable.
SUMMARY: Consultant Lynae Steinhagen will update the City Council and City Manager in a
Closed Executive Session on the results of the City Manager’s performance evaluation. The
information will be sent to the Council under separate cover by Monday. The discussion will
proceed as follows:
• As in the past, Councilmembers-elect will be invited to participate in the session.
• The summary of the information from the evaluation will be presented by Ms. Steinhagen.
Council will provide comments or suggestions.
• City Manager Tom Harmening will join the Council and participate in the conversation,
reviewing work from 2013 and setting direction for 2014.
• Once completed, final documents will be presented for formal approval at the next regular
Council meeting.
In accordance with Minnesota open meeting law, this meeting will be audio taped. The law
states:
“All closed meetings, except those as permitted by the attorney-client privilege, must be
electronically recorded at the expense of the public body. Unless otherwise provided by
law, the recordings must be preserved for at least three years after the date of the
meeting.”
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: Not applicable.
VISION CONSIDERATION: Not applicable.
Attachments: None
Prepared by: Ali Fosse, HR Coordinator
Reviewed by: Nancy Deno, Deputy City Manager
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: December 2, 2013
Minutes: 3a
UNOFFICIAL MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL STUDY SESSION
ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
NOVEMBER 4, 2013
The meeting convened at 6:31 p.m.
Councilmembers present: Mayor Jeff Jacobs, Steve Hallfin (arrived at 6:34 p.m.), Anne Mavity,
Julia Ross, Susan Sanger, Sue Santa, and Jake Spano.
Councilmembers absent: None.
Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Harmening), City Engineer (Ms. Heiser), Director of
Community Development (Mr. Locke), Operations Superintendent (Mr. Hanson),
Communications Coordinator (Mr. Zwilling), and Recording Secretary (Ms. Hughes).
1. Ownership and Replacement Costs in the Right of Way
Ms. Heiser presented the staff report and the draft policy related to ownership of private
improvements in the public right of way. She advised that this policy will be helpful to staff as
part of the Connect the Park project to provide a consistent message to residents regarding
ownership of private improvements in the public right of way. She indicated that staff surveyed
other communities to understand their policies on this issue and learned that below ground items
are typically the property owner’s responsibility. She stated staff also considered the possibility
of having the City pay for replacement of landscaping and used 39th Street as an example and
determined that the replacement costs would add approximately 25% to the project budget. She
indicated the policy requires that property owners apply for a right of way permit for below
ground private improvements and staff intends to communicate this new requirement to property
owners and to educate the public about where the right of way is located, adding that the right of
way permit will be free of charge for single family residential properties. She pointed out that
the last sentence of the first page of the draft policy will be revised to state “If the City
determines that a private improvement in the ROW is a hazard to public safety, impedes snow
removal/storage, or creates a visual obstruction, the City will work with the property owner to
address the problem.”
Councilmember Mavity requested that the policy contain clear guidance about the right of way
permit and what types of private improvements trigger the need for the permit.
Councilmember Ross asked if property owners need to apply for the right of way permit if they
already have something in the right of way.
Ms. Heiser replied that the City does not plan to retroactively require that property owners obtain
a right of way permit.
Councilmember Ross felt the City should encourage property owners to obtain a right of way
permit for existing below ground improvements since the City is already going to be meeting
with residents about the sidewalk project. She stated the permit does not need to be mandated
but it would be nice to have information about existing improvements in the right of way.
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 3a) Page 2
Title: Special Study Session Minutes of November 4, 2013
Councilmember Mavity did not feel that the City’s draft policy landed in the right spot in terms
of its peer communities and felt the City should strive toward a policy that is more closely
aligned with Edina in terms of its salvage and restore in place policy. She felt the policy should
state that the City will salvage and relocate items as a part of the project. The location could be
either in or out of the right of way.
Councilmember Spano suggested that Council consider providing property owners with a
percentage of the cost to replace items in the public right of way instead of a stipend, e.g., if a
property owner incurs a $50 replacement cost, the City will cover half that cost or $25. He felt
this would be more equitable and would eliminate the concern about one property owner not
getting the same amount as another property owner.
Councilmember Santa stated that retaining walls are very often put in by a property owner
because they are needed and not for aesthetic purposes and she hoped the City would replace
retaining walls because it was needed in that location and a property owner would not have gone
to the expense otherwise. She agreed with Councilmember Spano’s suggestion about providing
a percentage but questioned who would decide how much a tree or shrub is worth. She noted the
importance of diversifying the urban forest and felt this was one way of achieving that if you are
taking out an elm tree and replacing it with something that adds diversity, adding that she felt the
City should pay for the replacement tree.
Councilmember Sanger agreed that some form of reimbursement to the property owner or
replanting makes sense, but was concerned about what happens if the replanting takes place on
the homeowner’s private property and possible liability issues for the City. She stated she would
rather have the policy state that the City will issue a check to the property owner for anything the
City is responsible for and to have the property owner be responsible for getting the work done.
She indicated there was nothing in the policy that addressed the ability to transplant some trees
or shrubs rather than starting with new plantings and felt the City should pursue transplanting
trees and/or shrubs if there is a reasonable chance of survival. She also felt the City should
maintain some flexibility in dealing with right of way issues because the policy might not fit
100% in every situation.
Councilmember Mavity suggested that the City’s policy related to above ground items state that
the City will salvage and restore in place and/or relocate outside the right of way.
Councilmember Sanger asked if property owners will have one point of contact at the City
related to this policy.
Ms. Heiser replied in the affirmative.
Councilmember Santa expressed concern about the salvage and restore in place language,
explaining that if there was no sidewalk on a particular piece of property, it could be assumed
that the property belonged to “John Jones” and once a sidewalk goes in, the boulevard becomes a
public space and it may not be appropriate to have “John Jones’s” property on the public space
where the public could interfere with it. She stated she was leaning more towards relocating
outside of the right of way with the ability to have a little wiggle room in the policy.
It was the consensus of the City Council that the policy regarding ownership of private
improvements in the public right of way shall state that below ground items are the responsibility
of the property owner. It was also the consensus of the City Council that the policy regarding
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 3a) Page 3
Title: Special Study Session Minutes of November 4, 2013
below ground items shall state that the City will salvage and restore in place where feasible or
outside of the right of way. It was also the consensus of the City Council that as a general rule,
the City will replace trees and shrubs.
Mr. Harmening stated that a revised policy will be presented to Council in the near future.
2. Update on Southwest LRT (Verbal)
Mr. Harmening presented a timeline of events since October 14th and advised that he and Mayor
Jacobs will be meeting with the Governor tomorrow (11/5/13). He stated the CMC is scheduled
to meet on November 6th to receive an update on the three studies that were ordered by the
Governor. He indicated the City has provided comments on the scope of work for the freight rail
analysis and staff is preparing a letter to the Governor commenting on the document
disseminated by Senator Dibble; in addition, work continues on station area planning.
Councilmember Sanger requested information about the proposed scope of the freight rail
analysis.
Mr. Harmening stated it was staff’s understanding that the consultants would look at all the
previous freight rail options in St. Louis Park and may identify any other options in St. Louis
Park as well as other possible options outside of the City.
Councilmember Santa asked if the consultants will be reviewing the body of work that the City
commissioned through SEH Consulting.
Mr. Harmening replied in the affirmative and stated the consultants will review all the work and
comments submitted with the DEIS, including the Safety in the Park work. He requested that
Council consider having two or three people travel to Washington, D.C., in the next 30-60 days
to visit with the City’s delegation regarding this project.
It was the consensus of the City Council to direct staff to work with the City’s lobbyists to
schedule a meeting with the City’s representatives in Washington, D.C., in the near future.
The meeting adjourned at 7:33 p.m.
______________________________________ ______________________________________
Nancy Stroth, City Clerk Jeff Jacobs, Mayor
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: December 2, 2013
Minutes: 3b
UNOFFICIAL MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION
ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
NOVEMBER 12, 2013
The meeting convened at 6:32 p.m.
Councilmembers present: Mayor Jeff Jacobs, Julia Ross, Susan Sanger, and Sue Santa.
Councilmembers absent: Steve Hallfin, Anne Mavity, and Jake Spano.
Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Harmening), Deputy City Manager/Director of Human
Resources (Ms. Deno), Director of Inspections (Mr. Hoffman), Director of Operations and
Recreation (Ms. Walsh), Chief Information Officer (Mr. Pires), Director of Community
Development (Mr. Locke), Director of Engineering (Ms. Heiser), Controller (Mr. Swanson),
Finance Supervisor (Mr. Heintz), and Recording Secretary (Ms. Hughes).
1. Future Study Session Agenda Planning – November 25, 2013
Mr. Harmening presented the proposed study session agenda for November 25th.
2. Southwest LRT Update
Mr. Harmening presented the staff report and the Scope of Work prepared by the SPO and
released at the CMC meeting last week. He stated the Scope of Work will be used by the outside
consultant to prepare a report on the freight rail reroute analysis as well as an analysis of the
hydrology study in the Kenilworth corridor and an analysis of some additional landscaping in the
Kenilworth corridor to mitigate impacts of collocating freight rail and light rail. He indicated the
Met Council’s goal is to hire a consultant by the end of November and to have the consultant’s
work completed four to six weeks thereafter. He pointed out that this Scope of Work is not
intended to be a detailed engineering analysis but rather a high level analysis of the work already
done.
Ms. Sophia Ginis from the SW LRT Project Office confirmed that Kimley-Horn was the project
development consultant hired for the initial stage of the project and a new consultant will be
hired to do the reanalysis directed by the Governor.
Councilmember Ross asked if there was a possibility that the timeline for this project would be
pushed out further if the consultants need additional time to complete their studies.
Mr. Harmening stated it was his understanding that Met Council is assuming this new study will
be done by January with the municipal consent process beginning shortly thereafter so that Met
Council can meet its targets by the first part of 2014.
Councilmember Sanger felt that the Scope of Work needed to include a statement of the criteria
against which all of these routes will be evaluated and that indicates this same criteria will be
used to evaluate all the potential routes. She stated the Scope of Work also does not indicate
whether any attention is being paid to impacts on the surrounding communities including
impacts on nearby properties, whether properties need to be taken, noise and vibration impacts,
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 3b) Page 2
Title: Study Session Minutes of November 12, 2013
traffic impacts, and impacts on schools and businesses, as well as the mitigation needed for any
or all of these routes. She also questioned how the consultants are going to do the cost analysis
for these routes and felt the City needs to have a way to compare the cost of the routes including
mitigation costs. She stated the Scope of Work also needs to address the issue of transparency
and how all this information will be analyzed and presented to the public for comment prior to a
decision being made.
Mr. Locke explained that the Scope of Work addresses those items in more broad terms, adding
it was important to recognize that this study is intended to address the viability issue from a
freight rail perspective and does not include any new analysis.
Councilmember Sanger requested further information about the potential meeting with Federal
legislators in Washington, D.C., and attendees at that meeting.
Mayor Jacobs suggested that the meeting with Federal legislators include Senators Klobuchar
and Franken and that he attend this meeting along with Councilmembers Sanger and Spano. He
stated the purpose of the meeting is to make sure nothing is going to happen that will jeopardize
the Federal funding for this project and to reaffirm the Senators’ commitment to this project.
Mr. Harmening stated that staff will work on coordinating schedules for this meeting and will
prepare an agenda and goals for the meeting for review by Council.
3. Long Range Financial Management Plan and 2014-2018 CIP
Mr. Swanson presented the staff report and provided an overview of how the CIP fits into the
City’s long range financial management plan and budgeting process.
Mr. Hoffman stated that one of the projects in the Buildings Department 2014 budget includes
the second floor remodeling at City Hall budgeted at $420,000. He stated another project
planned for 2014 is repair work on the police station concrete fascia to seal areas where there is
water intrusion at the mortar joints to prevent any damage to the building and the project is
estimated at $100,000. He indicated another project at the police station is the creation of an
emergency operations center (EOC) in the roll call room and remodel of the break room for
$240,000. He stated the technology is outdated and the break room will be enlarged with a
different layout of the kitchen area. He advised that another project planned in 2014 will be done
at the MSC to repair the first bay concrete floor with application of a new polymer coating
technology to extend the life for 20 years. He stated another project being investigated at the
MSC is a roof mounted 40 kilowatt solar panel system. He explained that the cost of these
panels has significantly decreased and the City is able to install the system for $35,000 with a
ten-year payback and the useful life of the panels is at least 50 years. He agreed to obtain further
information about disposal of the panels and provide this information to Council.
Councilmember Ross asked if staff considered having carports with plug-ins for the Police
Department so that the squad cars do not have to be kept running all the time.
Mr. Hoffman replied that currently there are plug-ins available with automatic releases for all the
squads at the Police Department. He added that the City reviewed adding a roof over the carport
but decided that it was not worth the cost and did not represent the best value for the money.
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 3b) Page 3
Title: Study Session Minutes of November 12, 2013
Mr. Pires stated that the Technology Department 2014 budget includes the police/fire 800 MHz
radio/console replacement project. He explained that the City plans to replace three complete
work stations in 2014 at a cost of $20,000 each and in 2016, several hundred portable radios and
mobile radios used by police and fire will be replaced at a cost of $600,000. He stated that the
City’s asset management software will be replaced in 2014 and indicated this software allows the
City to document and keep maintenance records on all street assets, park assets, fiber assets, etc.,
as a way to keep track of and know when a particular asset needs to be maintained and/or
upgraded. He stated that other 2014 projects include the police/fire dispatch 800 MHz backup
system and the new computer aided dispatch, records management, and mobiles system
approved by Council in September. He stated that a couple of fiber projects are planned in 2014,
including Highway 7/Louisiana to coincide with the construction of the new interchange as well
as during the Highway 100 reconstruction project. He added that another project not listed in the
report relates to the St. Louis Park library and explained that the City has been working with the
County on connecting the St. Louis Park library to fiber. . The hope is that project is funded
primarily by the County, with other benefits to the City. He also pointed out that in 2015 the
Cable TV CIP shows $120,000 for van cameras representing one of the largest expenditures in
the Cable TV CIP. He indicated the camera performance has been good and it may be possible
to push this expenditure out to a later year.
Councilmember Ross requested further information about the public kiosks.
Mr. Pires stated that a self-service kiosk will be installed in the first floor lobby at City Hall and
the kiosk will have commonly used functions that are easy to use, e.g., look for jobs, register for
a program, or pay a bill, with the goal to expand the use of kiosks to other sites such as the Rec
Center and to encourage people to do as much city business online as possible.
Councilmember Ross requested an update on the use of cameras in the park restrooms.
Ms. Walsh stated the buildings do not yet have fiber and the City is exploring a cheaper
alternative with a DSL line. She indicated that Nelson and Browndale Park will be set up on a
trial basis in the near future.
Councilmember Sanger requested that Fernhill Park be included in the trial.
Ms. Heiser stated the Engineering Department has reviewed the CIP to make sure the City takes
advantage of opportunities to do more than one project at a time, e.g., if a street is being
reconstructed and the water main needs to be replaced, the City will work to make sure the
projects are done at the same time to save money and reduce inconvenience to the public. She
stated the City will install fiber and do some water main and frontage road work during the
Highway 100 reconstruction project.
Councilmember Ross noted that the markings on the roadway over Highway 7 going north are
difficult to see and drivers are having trouble noticing the lane shift and the fact that there are
two lanes in this area and requested that staff take a look at this.
Ms. Heiser agreed to have staff take a look at Highway 7. She advised that staff met with
residents in the Wooddale and 36th neighborhood to discuss concerns about traffic and safety.
She noted that this area is on the CIP but has been pushed back because of SW LRT, however,
the City’s traffic engineer was able to develop a low cost, high benefit traffic signal improvement
that will provide short-term benefits without a significant investment long term. She advised the
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 3b) Page 4
Title: Study Session Minutes of November 12, 2013
City has eight pavement management areas, and the 2014 Pavement Management project is in
area 2. She noted there are some sidewalks being installed in this area and the City has
scheduled a meeting with residents next week to discuss the project. She stated another large
initiative is the storm water improvements including the Bass Lake rehabilitation project with $6
million programmed into the CIP for this project and the public involvement process will be
kicked off next year.
Councilmember Sanger asked if the Highway 100 project contemplates the reconstruction of
Utica between 26th and north of Minnetonka Boulevard.
Ms. Heiser stated it was her understanding that the reconstruction has been incorporated as part
of the costs of the project and agreed to confirm that.
Councilmember Santa requested further information about the street light project and whether
the City has considered transitioning to LED.
Ms. Walsh replied the City has LED lights on order for Cedar Lake Road and the intent is to
change out all the City’s streetlights with LED. She stated the City could realize up to a 40%
savings on its operational costs with LED lighting.
Ms. Walsh stated that the Parks & Recreation CIP includes Dakota Park field renovations in
2014 as well as new playground equipment at Dakota and Louisiana Oaks Parks. She noted that
the CIP shows a parking lot addition to Louisiana Oaks in 2014 but this item is being moved to
2015 to coincide with the trail on Louisiana so that residents in the area are only disrupted once.
She advised that a significant expenditure in 2016 involves the refrigeration changeover at the
Rec Center as part of the mandate to eliminate use of Freon by 2020.
Mr. Heintz presented the long range financial management plan and reviewed the Cable TV
Fund with Council and pointed out that the Comcast franchise agreement expires at the end of
2020 and the Cable TV fund will need another revenue source after 2020. He also reviewed the
Housing Rehabilitation Fund and stated the funding source is the City’s 1/8 of 1% administrative
fee, the majority of which will drop off in 2022. He reviewed the Park Improvement Fund and
stated the City might bond for the refrigeration project at the Rec Center and if the community
center project comes forward, the City could combine these projects to take advantage of cost
savings. He then reviewed the Pavement Management Fund and pointed out this Fund includes
the assumption that the City will have a franchise fee increase of $.50 per utility during odd years
to continue the sustainability of this fund going forward. He also reviewed the Capital
Replacement Fund and stated the City has additional monies going in this fund based on
Council’s adoption of the preliminary 2014 property tax levy; in addition, this fund includes
LGA for the next two years. He noted this fund has short term funding challenges but the long-
term sustainability of the fund looks good.
Councilmember Sanger asked what assumptions are being made about changes in interest rates
and inflation rates.
Mr. Swanson replied the City has used a 3% inflationary factor and estimated interest rates are
shown in the CIP.
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 3b) Page 5
Title: Study Session Minutes of November 12, 2013
Mr. Heintz reviewed the HRA Levy Fund and stated this fund is used to pay for projects such as
Highway 7/Louisiana and includes a $4 million internal loan from the Development Fund with
resources tied up through 2019.
Mr. Harmening stated that the City hopes that the HRA Levy Fund can pay for future
improvements in the community around the light rail stations.
Mr. Heintz then reviewed the Development Fund and advised that this fund has a lot more
resources than cash and the City is using those resources to generate more interest out in the
market.
Mr. Harmening stated that Council will need to address the long-term sustainability of this fund
and indicated this fund is important to the community’s future from an economic development
perspective.
Mr. Heintz reviewed the Storm Water Utility Fund and noted that the City’s other utility funds
are operating as planned based on the City’s rate studies and analysis; however, the Storm Water
Utility Fund has a significant capital outlay in the next five to seven years with the most
significant project being the Bass Lake area. He indicated the City will have to issue bonds in
two stages for these projects and pointed out there are several years where 10% rate increases are
needed.
Mr. Harmening stated that Council will only approve CIP projects for 2014 when it approves the
2014 budget next month and will not be asked to approve projects beyond 2014 at this time.
4. City Manager’s 2013 Performance Evaluation Discussion
Ms. Deno presented the staff report and advised that staff received three proposals from
consultants to assist with the City Manager’s annual performance evaluation. She recommended
that Council use Lynae Steinhagen of BWR Organizational Consulting and suggested that Ms.
Steinhagen contact Council directly to schedule face to face interviews followed by a meeting
with the City Council and Mr. Harmening, with the goal of completing the process by December
16, 2013.
It was the consensus of the City Council to proceed with the recommendations for conducting
the City Manager’s 2013 annual performance evaluation.
Communications/Meeting Check-In (Verbal)
None.
The meeting adjourned at 8:53 p.m.
Written Reports provided and documented for recording purposes only:
5. September 2013 Monthly Financial Report
6. Update on Environment and Sustainability Commission: Sustainable SLP
______________________________________ ______________________________________
Nancy Stroth, City Clerk Jeff Jacobs, Mayor
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: December 2, 2013
Minutes: 3c
UNOFFICIAL MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
NOVEMBER 18, 2013
1. Call to Order
Mr. Harmening advised that Mayor Jacobs and Mayor Pro Tem Sanger are both out of town and
Council is required to appoint an Acting Mayor Pro Tem to run the meeting.
It was moved by Councilmember Spano, seconded by Councilmember Mavity, to nominate Julia
Ross as Acting Mayor Pro Tem.
The motion passed 5-0 (Mayor Jacobs and Councilmember Sanger absent).
Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross called the meeting to order at 7:31 p.m.
Councilmembers present: Acting Mayor Pro Tem Julia Ross, Steve Hallfin, Anne Mavity, Sue
Santa, and Jake Spano.
Councilmembers absent: Mayor Jeff Jacobs and Councilmember Susan Sanger.
Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Harmening), City Attorney (Mr. Scott), City Clerk (Ms.
Stroth), Director of Inspections (Mr. Hoffman), and Recording Secretary (Ms. Hughes).
1a. Pledge of Allegiance
1b. Roll Call
2. Presentations - None
3. Approval of Minutes
3a. City Council Meeting Minutes November 4, 2013
The minutes were approved as presented.
Councilmember Spano requested to make a statement to the public regarding the lighting
on the trail (page 3) and his concern about lighting and emergency phones for purposes of
safety, and at the time, staff indicated there were no plans for any lighting features. He
stated that he has since been informed that the City is working with MCWD on a lighting
plan for the trail to increase safety in that area.
3b. Special City Council Meeting Minutes November 12, 2013
The minutes were approved as presented.
4. Approval of Agenda and Items on Consent Calendar
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 3c) Page 2
Title: City Council Meeting Minutes of November 18, 2013
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. Approve Second Reading and Adopt Ordinance No. 2451-13 Repealing Section 16-
33 of the St. Louis Park Code of Ordinances Relating to Criminal History
Background Investigations.
4b. Authorize execution of a contract with Northeast Tree, Inc., as the 2014-2016
Boulevard Tree Pruning contractor in an amount not to exceed $60,000 per year.
4c. Approve for filing Vendor Claims.
4d. Approve for filing Housing Authority Meeting Minutes September 11, 2013.
The Agenda and items listed on the Consent Calendar were approved.
5. Boards and Commissions - None
6. Public Hearings
6a. Public Hearing – 2014 Liquor License Fees. Resolution No. 13-171.
Ms. Stroth presented the staff report and explained that City Ordinance permits Council
to set liquor fees by resolution in amounts no greater than set forth in the State statute.
She stated where there is no state restriction, a city can set the liquor fee at an amount
that reflects the cost of issuing the license and other costs related to enforcement. She
indicated the proposed 2014 liquor license fees reflect the cost of administration, public
safety enforcement, are comparable to the midrange of other similar sized cities, and
reflect no increases for 2014.
Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross opened the public hearing. No speakers were present.
Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross closed the public hearing.
It was moved by Councilmember Mavity, seconded by Councilmember Santa, to adopt
Resolution No. 13-171 Adopting 2014 Liquor License Fees for the License Term March
1, 2014 - March 1, 2015.
The motion passed 5-0 (Mayor Jacobs and Councilmember Sanger absent).
6b. Public Hearing – Byerly’s, Inc., Liquor License
Ms. Stroth presented the staff report and stated that Byerly’s has requested an on-sale
intoxicating and Sunday sale liquor license with the main emphasis to offer on-site wine
and beer during cooking classes and to expand their catering to include alcohol. She
advised the premises area is 3,280 square feet with seating for 61 and 23 seats in the
cooking school and noted that staff and representatives from the Alcohol Enforcement
Division met and agree that the use of planters is allowable to define the premises area.
She pointed out the liquor license will cover the remainder of the term through March 1,
2014.
Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross opened the public hearing.
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 3c) Page 3
Title: City Council Meeting Minutes of November 18, 2013
Mr. Ross Huseby, Byerly’s General Manager, appeared before the City Council and
stated that when Byerly’s closed its restaurant in April, they lost the liquor license and are
here this evening to request another liquor license that they can use for the catering
business and to serve in their restaurant. He stated that Byerly’s provides alcohol
compliance training to its employees and this training is no different than the training
provided at their liquor stores.
Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross indicated that Council approved a new type of liquor license
for culinary cooking classes and asked if the Byerly’s cooking school, catering
operations, and café are covered under one license.
Ms. Stroth replied in the affirmative that the on sale intoxicating liquor license will cover
the café and cooking school as well as liquor service allowed during catering operations.
Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross asked if the catering operations would be impacted if an
underage drinking violation occurred in the Byerly’s serving area.
Mr. Harmening explained that if Byerly’s did not pass a compliance check they would be
treated like all other liquor establishments that do not pass a compliance check, i.e., a fine
would be imposed for the first offense while still retaining their license, adding that
continued violations could result in revocation of the liquor license.
Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross closed the public hearing.
It was moved by Councilmember Mavity, seconded by Councilmember Spano, to approve
On-Sale Intoxicating and Sunday Sale Liquor License for Byerly’s, Inc., dba Byerly’s,
located at 3777 Park Center Blvd., for the license term through March 1, 2014.
The motion passed 5-0 (Mayor Jacobs and Councilmember Sanger absent).
6c. Public Hearing – M.G.M. of St. Louis Park, LLC, Liquor License
Ms. Stroth presented the staff report and advised that M.G.M. of St. Louis Park, LLC, has
made application for an off-sale intoxicating liquor license at 8100 Highway 7 in the
Knollwood Mall consisting of approximately 8,890 square feet. She stated it is possible
that M.G.M. of St. Louis Park, LLC, may not open until March of next year, however, the
State Alcohol Division recommended that the liquor license be approved to cover the
current liquor license term through March 1, 2014.
Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross opened the public hearing.
Mr. Terrance Maglich, Vice President, M.G.M. of St. Louis Park, LLC, approached the
City Council and introduced Mr. Michael Maglich, co-owner of M.G.M. of St. Louis
Park, LLC, and requested Council’s support in issuing the requested liquor license.
Councilmember Hallfin asked if M.G.M. of St. Louis Park, LLC, has other stores.
Mr. Maglich replied they have only one store in St. Louis Park and this is a new
corporation. He stated they have been working with Rouse Properties and have reached
agreement on retrofitting the Party City space and adding a new fascia on the building.
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 3c) Page 4
Title: City Council Meeting Minutes of November 18, 2013
Mr. Larry Jones, 8216 30 ½ Street, appeared before the City Council and asked if the
City has a requirement for a one-mile separation between off-sale liquor establishments.
Mr. Harmening replied that the City does not have this requirement.
Mr. Jones requested that the City Council consider an ordinance with a one-mile
separation but allowing liquor establishments already in existence to be grandfathered in.
Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross stated a possible ordinance could be discussed at a study
session.
Councilmember Mavity asked if the one-mile separation ordinance is present in other
communities.
Mr. Scott stated he has seen this type of ordinance in other communities and it is
something the City Council could consider if it wishes.
Councilmember Hallfin stated that Council has talked about the number of off-sale liquor
establishments in the City and requested that Council have a study session discussion
about this issue. He indicated there is an established liquor store across the street and if
MGM moves in, it is going to hurt the established liquor store adding that the MGM store
will be closer to Cub and business will shift from the established store to the new store.
Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross closed the public hearing.
It was moved by Councilmember Santa, seconded by Councilmember Spano, to approve
off-sale intoxicating liquor license for M.G.M. of St. Louis Park, LLC, dba MGM Wine
and Spirits, located at 8100 Highway 7, Unit #348 (Knollwood Mall), for the license term
through March 1, 2014.
The motion failed 3-2 (Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross and Councilmember Hallfin opposed;
Mayor Jacobs and Councilmember Sanger absent).
Mr. Harmening stated that the motion required four affirmative votes, thus, the
application for the off-sale liquor license was not approved.
Mr. Maglich stated they have never been denied a liquor license in 35 years of business
and this was a serious reflection on their company that enjoys a stellar reputation. He
stated they probably would have pulled their application if City staff had given them any
indication that their application would be turned down and he respectfully requested that
the City Council reconsider its action.
Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross requested guidance from the City Attorney about the
process for reconsidering.
Mr. Scott advised there could be a motion to reconsider by anyone who voted against the
motion, i.e., Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross or Councilmember Hallfin, and at that time, the
matter is back on the table and the City Council votes on whether to reconsider the liquor
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 3c) Page 5
Title: City Council Meeting Minutes of November 18, 2013
license application. He added it does not appear that the City Council has any basis for
denying the liquor license application.
Councilmember Mavity felt that Council should reconsider, adding she did not think this
was a fair way to conduct business and apologized to Mr. Maglich. She also felt there
were legitimate issues to consider and wanted to make sure Council considers this matter
thoughtfully and thoroughly so that businesses are encouraged to come to St. Louis Park
because they know they will be treated fairly.
Mr. Maglich stated if someone had indicated there was a strong possibility that the
license would be denied, they would not have gone forward with their application. He
added this denial has a serious implication on damaging their company and reputation.
Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross stated it was not her intention to damage Mr. Maglich or his
company, adding she understood their position and would reopen the matter for
reconsideration. She stated it was her belief there are a lot of liquor stores in close
proximity of each other in the City, adding she did not know MGM was planning to come
to St. Louis Park and could not have given them any forewarning about the vote tonight.
Mr. Scott advised that one option is for Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross or Councilmember
Hallfin to make a motion to reconsider for the purpose of allowing Mr. Maglich to
withdraw their application, which means their application would not have been denied by
Council. He stated another option is to bring a motion for reconsideration of this item at
the next City Council meeting at which time there would be another vote on the liquor
license application.
Councilmember Hallfin stated he was fine letting the motion stand the way it is now.
Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross stated she wanted to be fair to Mr. Maglich and would make
a motion to reconsider and bring the matter back before the City Council.
It was moved by Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross, seconded by Councilmember Santa, to
reconsider the liquor license application for M.G.M. of St. Louis Park, LLC, dba MGM
Wine and Spirits, located at 8100 Highway 7, for the license term through March 1,
2014.
The motion passed 4-1 (Councilmember Hallfin opposed; Mayor Jacobs and
Councilmember Sanger absent).
Mr. Scott advised that it is now up to Mr. Maglich whether to withdraw their application.
He added Council could also table the matter if there are four votes.
It was moved by Councilmember Mavity, seconded by Councilmember Spano, to table the
consideration of the off-sale intoxicating liquor license for M.G.M. of St. Louis Park,
LLC, until the City Council’s next regular meeting of December 2, 2013.
The motion passed 4-1 (Councilmember Hallfin opposed; Mayor Jacobs and
Councilmember Sanger absent).
6d. Public Hearing – Currency Exchange License Renewal – Excel Pawn
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 3c) Page 6
Title: City Council Meeting Minutes of November 18, 2013
Ms. Stroth presented the staff report and explained that licenses for currency exchange
are handled by the Department of Commerce and are renewed each year through the State
of Minnesota. She indicated the State conducts the criminal background investigations
and the St. Louis Park Police Department has reviewed the findings and found nothing
that warrants withholding the license renewal.
Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross opened the public hearing.
Mr. Scott Lansing appeared before the City Council to speak in opposition to the license.
He stated Excel has had a license for approximately 17 years and falsified their
application either by not listing the real owners or misstating the criminal record of the
owner(s). He presented the City Council with a written statement of facts along with
copies of the Federal conviction and arrest reports.
Mr. Doolittle approached the City Council and stated that some of the things that Mr.
Lansing said are true. He stated he went to prison when he was 19 years old for
conspiracy to distribute cocaine. He acknowledged he has had problems with drugs and
alcohol but has been clean for nine years.
Councilmember Mavity asked if these kinds of alleged criminal activities are activities
that the City searches for when it conducts criminal background investigations. She also
asked if these kinds of activities are relevant to the application being considered by
Council this evening.
Mr. Scott stated these alleged criminal activities would be relevant. He pointed out that
the City Council is not considering an application for the pawn shop license, which is
issued administratively, rather, this is a currency exchange license issued by the State that
comes before the City as the governing body for action within 60 days . He stated if the
City does not act on the license within the 60 day time period, it is presumed that the City
is okay with it and the State will issue the license. He advised that Council could
consider the criminal background findings in determining whether it wants to pass on its
approval to the State.
Councilmember Mavity asked if the background checks performed by the City include
multiple jurisdictions.
Ms. Stroth replied the Police Department would be in a better position to answer this and
added the Police Department reviewed the background check done by the State and
checked the records for any other reasons why the applicant should not have a license.
Councilmember Mavity stated that serious allegations have been raised, and she has no
basis on which to know whether these allegations have any validity. She stated it was
unclear to her whether the City’s background checks have been thorough enough and did
not feel that Council had enough information at this time to make a decision on the
license renewal.
It was moved by Councilmember Santa, seconded by Councilmember Mavity, to table
action on the issuance of a Currency Exchange License Renewal to Excel Pawn &
Jewelry by the State of Minnesota for their business located at 8008 Minnetonka
Boulevard in St. Louis Park to a future City Council meeting.
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 3c) Page 7
Title: City Council Meeting Minutes of November 18, 2013
The motion passed 5-0 (Mayor Jacobs and Councilmember Sanger absent).
Mr. Jones approached the City Council again and stated that Excel Pawn displays a café
sign along the boulevard and asked if the City’s sign ordinance prohibits these signs and
if so, whether this was grounds for holding up the application or denying the application.
Mr. Harmening stated that signs are generally not permitted on the right of way and
would be a violation of the City’s Ordinance.
Mr. Scott stated that any violation of the sign ordinance would probably not be grounds
for denying the license renewal.
Councilmember Hallfin informed Mr. Jones that sign issues are enforced upon complaint
and if a complaint was made to City Hall, someone would be sent out to address the
issue.
7. Requests, Petitions, and Communications from the Public – None
8. Resolutions, Ordinances, Motions and Discussion Items – None
9. Communications
Councilmember Spano reminded residents that November is prostate cancer awareness
month or “Movember” and encouraged residents to contribute to the charity.
10. Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:27 p.m.
______________________________________ ______________________________________
Nancy Stroth, City Clerk Julia Ross, Acting Mayor Pro Tem
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: December 2, 2013
Consent Agenda Item: 4D
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: Accept Monetary Donations for the Derrick Keller Scoreboard located at Dakota Park
($14,500)
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Motion to Adopt Resolution approving acceptance of monetary
donations from Independent School District 283 ($5,000), Churchill Plastics ($5,000), St. Louis
Park Dugout Club/Family and Friends of the Baseball Community ($3,500) and the St. Louis
Park Hockey Association ($1,000) for a new scoreboard at Dakota Park.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: Does the City Council wish to accept the gifts 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.
Derrick Keller, a young St. Louis Park resident, passed away after a long and hard battle with
leukemia. Derrick was an icon at the Dakota Park ball field. At their January 7, 2013 City
Council meeting, Council approved the renaming of the ball field Derrick Keller field. As part of
the naming of the ball field and installation of scoreboard, individual donations were received in
the amount of $ 14,500. Staff applied for a Hennepin County grant to assist in funding but the
request was denied.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: This donation will be used for the purchase
and installation of a scoreboard on Derrick Keller field in Dakota Park.
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 Parks & Recreation
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 4a) Page 2
Title: Accept Monetary Donations for the Derrick Keller Scoreboard located at Dakota Park ($14,500)
RESOLUTION NO. 13-____
RESOLUTION APPROVING ACCEPTANCE OF DONATION
IN THE AMOUNT OF $14,500 TO BE UTILIZED TO PURCHASE AND
INSTALL A SCOREBOARD AT DAKOTA PARK
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, Independent School District 283 ($5,000), Churchill Plastics ($5,000), St.
Louis Park Dugout Club/Family and Friends of the Baseball Community ($3,500) and the St.
Louis Park Hockey Association ($1,000) all donated funds for the purchase and installation of a
new scoreboard at Dakota Park; 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 Independent School District 283, Churchill
Plastics, St. Louis Park Dugout Club/Family and Friends of the Baseball Community and the St.
Louis Park Hockey Association with the understanding that it must be used to purchase and
install a score board at Dakota Park.
Reviewed for Administration Adopted by the City Council December 2, 2013
City Manager Mayor
Attest:
City Clerk
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: December 2, 2013
Consent Agenda Item: 4b
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: Accept Monetary Donation from Leslie Marcus to Westwood Hills Nature Center
($100)
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Motion to Adopt Resolution approving acceptance of a
monetary donation from Leslie Marcus in the amount of $100 for Westwood Hills Nature
Center.
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.
Leslie graciously donated $100 to Westwood Hills Nature Center.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: This donation will be used at the discretion
of Westwood Hills Nature Center for programming needs.
VISION CONSIDERATION: St. Louis Park is committed to being a connected and engaged
community.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: Resolution
Prepared by: Carrie Mandler, Westwood Hills Nature Center Secretary
Mark Oestreich, Westwood Hills Nature Center Manager
Reviewed by: Cindy Walsh, Director of Parks & Recreation
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 4b) Page 2
Title: Accept Monetary Donation from Leslie Marcus to Westwood Hills Nature Center ($100)
RESOLUTION NO. 13-____
RESOLUTION APPROVING ACCEPTANCE OF DONATION
IN THE AMOUNT OF $100
TO BE USED FOR WESTWOOD HILLS NATURE CENTER PROGRAMING NEEDS
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, Leslie Marcus donated $100 to Westwood Hills Nature Center; 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 Leslie Marcus with the understanding that it
must be used at Westwood Hills Nature Center for programming needs.
Reviewed for Administration Adopted by the City Council December 2, 2013
City Manager Mayor
Attest:
City Clerk
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: December 2, 2013
Consent Agenda Item: 4c
MINUTES
ENVIRONMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION: SUSTAINABLE SLP
ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
October 2, 2013
Wolf Park Pavilion
MEMBERS PRESENT: Tim Brausen, Mark Eilers, Terry Gips, Caitlin Glennon, Rachel Harris,
Tom Hillstrom, Mary Karius, Cindy Larson O’Neil, Renee McGarvey, Alex Sundvall, Whitney
Thesing, Judy Voigt
MEMBERS ABSENT: Chris Anderson, Excused
STAFF PRESENT: Bridget Gothberg, Cindy Walsh, Jim Vaughan, Laura Nevitt
CONSULTANTS: Mike Lamb, Fred Rozumalski - Barr Engineering Company
GUESTS: Diana McKeown, Metro CERTS’s Director
http://www.cleanenergyresourceteams.org/partners-staff
1. The meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m.
2. The minutes of the September 11, 2013 meeting were amended by Terry Gips to include
the statement, “The next two meetings will be for 2 hours and for education.”
Commissioner Hillstrom moved that the minutes be approved as amended. Motion was
seconded by Commissioner Voigt and approved by the Commission.
3. Unfinished Business
a. GreenStep Discussion: Diana McKeown gave a presentation on GreenStep Cities.
The Commission talked about the history of GreenStep and who might be the
farthest in GreenStep. Diana stated that the farthest along were Edina, Eagan,
Falcon Heights, St. Anthony, and Woodbury. They have all finished Level 3 and
Level 4 is just being developed.
Jim Vaughan then talked about what has been done in St. Louis Park and what
more needs to be done. Mr. Vaughan and Ms. Nevitt will be working together on
reviewing the data and completing the forms regarding St. Louis Park’s
GreenStep progress toward reaching Level 2.
b. Work Plan Discussion: Mike Lamb led the discussion and shared potential
framework for the work plan. There was much conversation, which led to asking
Mike Lamb to revise the draft Work Plan and resubmit for review. Mike Lamb
said he would continuing drafting the Work Plan and will bring it back to the
November meeting.
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 4c) Page 2
Title: Environment and Sustainability Commission: Sustainable SLP Meeting Minutes of October 2, 2013
4. New Business:
a. November Meeting:
i. Invite Edina Commission Chair and Sean from Alliance for Sustainability
to continue the education of the St. Louis Park Commission.
5. Communications:
a. Tim Brausen was interviewed by the High School press called “ECHO”.
b. Cindy leased an electric car. If anyone wants to test drive, contact Cindy.
c. Solar Gardens – 2 presentations – CERT’s Minnesota Renewable Society – Nov.
10th.
d. There is a Badger Bioneers Conference in Madison on Nov. 5th. The main topic is
Sustainability and Communication.
e. Other resources include:
i. Natural Steps information - http://www.naturalstep.org/usa
ii. GreenStep - http://greenstep.pca.state.mn.us/index.cfmde
6. The meeting was adjourned at 9:05 p.m.
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: December 2, 2013
Action Agenda Item: 6a
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: 2014 Proposed Budget, Tax Levy and Truth in Taxation Public Hearing
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
• Information will be presented at the meeting pertaining to the 2014 property tax
supported budgets, 2014 Preliminary Property Tax Levy, and other general tax and
budgetary information.
• After the presentation, the Mayor is asked to open the public hearing, solicit comments
and close the public hearing. There is no other formal action required at this meeting.
POLICY CONSIDERATION:
• Does the City Council desire to set the 2014 Final Property Tax Levy at $25,577,908, which
is an increase of $864,967 or approximately 3.50% over the 2013 Final Property Tax Levy at
the December 16, 2013 meeting? Or, does the City Council desire to certify a lesser amount?
• Does the City Council desire to continue to levy the full 0.0185% of estimated market value
allowable for HRA purposes of $949,359, which is an increase of $48,426 or approximately
5.38% from 2013? Or, does the City Council desire to certify a lesser amount?
SUMMARY: Included is information pertaining to the 2014 Budget and 2014 Preliminary
General Property Tax and HRA levies. Information is also provided on the tax impacts to a
residential property for Council to consider. In addition, there is a brief discussion on 2014
utility rates that were approved on October 21, 2013, and the impact to property owners.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: The proposed tax levies and utility rates
will help support necessary City services, capital improvements, and debt service obligations for
Fiscal Year 2014.
VISION CONSIDERATION: All Vision areas are taken into consideration and are an
important part of our budgeting process. St. Louis Park is committed to being a connected and
engaged community.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: Discussion
2014 Adopted Utility Rates - Impact for Residential Property
Residential Estimated City Share of Property Taxes - 3.50%
Prepared by: Brian A. Swanson, Controller
Steve Heintz, Finance Supervisor
Reviewed by: Nancy Deno, Deputy City Manager/HR Director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 6a) Page 2
Title: 2014 Proposed Budget, Tax Levy and Truth in Taxation Public Hearing
DISCUSSION
BACKGROUND: At the September 3, 2013 Regular City Council meeting, the City Council
adopted the 2014 Preliminary Property Tax Levy. This levy is utilized to support the operations
of the General Fund, Capital Replacement Fund, Park Improvement Fund, and the Employee
Administration Fund. In addition, the levy will provide for the pay down of principal and
interest payments for the Debt Service Funds. The City Council and EDA also adopted the 2014
Preliminary HRA Levy. By law, this levy can only be used for infrastructure, housing and
redevelopment purposes. Finally, the City Council reviewed and discussed the 2014 Proposed
Budget, property tax implications, the 2014 – 2018 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and
utility rates over the course of the year. Formal adoption of the 2013 Final Amended Budget,
2014 Budget, 2014 Final Levy adoption for the City and HRA levies, and the 2014 – 2018
Capital Improvement Plan are scheduled for December 16, 2013.
2013 Final Levy, 2014 Preliminary Levy and General Fund Budget Information
A synopsis of prior year levy information, the 2014 Proposed Preliminary Levy and General
Fund Budget is shown below:
1. The 2014 Preliminary Property Tax Levy adopted on September 3, 2013, is $25,577,908,
which is an increase of approximately 3.50% or $864,967 compared to the 2013 Final
Property Tax Levy of $24,712,941.
2. The 2013 Final Property Tax Levy was $24,712,941, which was an increase of 4.00%, or
$950,190 compared to 2012.
3. The Proposed 2014 General Fund Budget is $30,427,622, which is an increase of
approximately 2.42% or $719,384 compared to the 2013 Final Amended Budget.
4. The 2014 Preliminary HRA Levy adopted on September 3, 2013, is $949,359, which is an
increase of approximately 5.38% or $48,426 compared to the 2013 Final HRA Levy.
The proposed breakdown of the Proposed Property Tax Levy by fund is shown below:
2013 2014 Dollar Change Percent Change
Final Proposed From 2013 From 2013
TAX CAPACITY BASED TAX LEVY
General Fund $20,657,724 $21,157,724 500,000$ 2.42%
Debt Service 1,937,085 1,422,477 (514,608) -26.57%
Capital Replacement Fund 842,700 1,342,700 500,000 59.33%
Park Improvement Fund 810,000 810,000 - 0.00%
Cap. Replace. Fund - Future Debt Service 265,432 645,007 379,575 143.00%
Employee Administration Fund 200,000 200,000 - 0.00%
TOTAL TAX LEVIES $24,712,941 $25,577,908 $864,967 3.50%
The 2014 Proposed Property Tax Levy increase of 3.50% is consistent with the information the
City Council adopted on September 3, 2013 and with the information presented on October 14,
2013.
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 6a) Page 3
Title: 2014 Proposed Budget, Tax Levy and Truth in Taxation Public Hearing
Fiscal Disparities
For 2014, the City will be a net contributor of $3,670,487 of its tax capacity, which is $729,809
more than the 2013 net contribution of $2,940,678. This is not an actual cash contribution, but
rather using that amount of tax capacity to be spread over all the other participants in the fiscal
disparities program, thereby increasing the City’s tax rate to its property owners. This increase
reduces the City’s overall tax capacity by approximately 1%. St. Louis Park experienced
significant increases in its net contribution to the fiscal disparities pool over the last four years
related to the development and redevelopment of its commercial sector of property. This
significant activity resulted in a nearly steady or a slight increase in the overall valuation of the
commercial sector of property in St. Louis Park. Therefore, the City fared much better during
the economic downturn when compared to many other participants in the fiscal disparities
program; many of which experienced decreases in the valuation of their commercial property. As
a result, St. Louis Park then held a larger share of the commercial sector market, and due to this,
is required to contribute a larger share to the program.
2014 HRA Levy
This levy was originally implemented in St. Louis Park due to legislative changes in 2001 which
significantly reduced future tax increment revenues. The City Council elected at that time to use
the levy proceeds for future infrastructure improvements in redevelopment areas. Thus far, some
of the HRA Levy proceeds have been used to fund infrastructure studies, analyses for future
improvement projects and are currently being used to pay for the City’s share of Highway 7 and
Louisiana. By law, these funds could also be used for other housing and redevelopment
purposes. Given the significant infrastructure needs facing the City in the future, particularly
transportation infrastructure needs, staff recommends that the HRA Levy continue at the
maximum allowed by law for the 2014 budget year, which is consistent with the City’s Long
Range Financial Management Plan. In accordance with MN state statute, the HRA Levy cannot
exceed 0.0185% of the estimated market value of the City. Therefore, Staff has calculated the
maximum HRA Levy for 2014 to be $949,359 based on data from Hennepin County, which is a
$48,426 increase or approximately 5.38% from the 2013 HRA Levy of $900,933.
Utility Funds
The changes in utility rates for 2014 were formally adopted by the City Council on October 21,
2013 for consumption or services provided beginning on January 1, 2014. These rates are
consistent with the goal of achieving long-term sustainability in the funds. With changes to the
City’s solid waste, recycling and organics programs, 2014 will be used as the year of continued
analysis with continued education and information on the City’s programs along with emphasis
on strengthening the pay as you throw model. Attachment 1 provides a summary of the changes
for a typical residential property. For 2014, the approximate cumulative effect on a typical
residential property for all the utility rate adjustments would be an increase of $39.80 per year, or
approximately $3.32 per month. This equates to an approximate 4.32% overall increase in utility
rates for 2014 when compared to 2013. This calculation is based on a family of four using 30
units of water per quarter (22,500 gallons), and 60 gallon solid waste service.
Estimated Impacts of City Changes in Property Taxes and Utility Rates for 2014
Estimated City Share of 3.50% Proposed Property Tax Levy Increase for 2014
As noted in the information in Attachment 2, the impact on the estimated City share of property
taxes, based on a 3.50% levy increase, differs widely based on the value of a residential
homesteaded property owner’s home. For example, some property owners would see a decrease
of about $120.33 per year, or approximately 19.8%, while other homeowners could see an
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 6a) Page 4
Title: 2014 Proposed Budget, Tax Levy and Truth in Taxation Public Hearing
increase of about $185.83 per year, or approximately 5.1%. For the property owners who will
experience a decrease in the City share of property taxes, this is due to the value of the property
declining by more than the increase in the tax levy. The City’s share of the estimated 2014
preliminary property taxes for a median valued residential homesteaded property of $204,700
would be approximately $931.66, which is a decrease of $16.86, or about a 1.8% compared to
2013. These figures are only for the estimated City share and do not factor in any changes in
other taxing jurisdictions including the school district and their referendums that were approved
by voters.
Estimated City Impact on Residential Homestead Property for 2014 for Taxes and Utilities
3.50% Levy Increase - Based on a 3.50% levy increase and realizing there are many variables in
estimating the City impact on a residential homestead property, a “typical” property in St. Louis
Park valued at approximately $204,700 for taxes payable in 2014 and having typical utilities as
discussed earlier in the report, would experience an overall increase of approximately $1.91 per
month or approximately $22.94 for the entire year. Of this estimated $22.94 increase,
approximately $39.80 would be attributed to utility rate adjustments increase and a decrease of
approximately $16.86 would be attributed to the City’s share of property taxes.
NEXT STEPS: As the 2014 Budget process near completion, the following steps remain:
December 2 Truth in Taxation Public Hearing and 2014 Budget Presentation.
December 16 Council adopts 2013 Final Amended Budget, 2014 budgets, final tax levies
and the CIP. On December 16, 2013, the City Council has the option of
decreasing the 2014 Preliminary Property Tax Levies that were certified for
the City and HRA back on September 3, 2013; however they cannot be
increased.
OTHER: As of November 25th, there were no letters or formal requests received in
Administrative Services addressing the proposed increase in the City’s portion of property taxes
to consider.
CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK
ESTIMATED QUARTERLY UTILITY BILL
ACTUAL 2013 AND ADOPTED 2014
Household Size 4
Units per quarter 30
Solid Waste Service 60-gallon
Meter size 3/4 inch
Actual Proposed Dollar Percent
Service Type 2013 2014 Change Change Notes
Water
Per unit rate - Tier 1 1.44$ 1.49$ 0.05$ 3.47%
Service charge 15.03$ 17.47$ 2.44$ 16.23%
State testing fee 1.59$ 1.59$ -$ 0.00%
Consumption 43.20$ 44.70$ 1.50$ 3.47%
Sewer
Service charge 13.43$ 13.83$ 0.40$ 2.98%
Per unit 2.61$ 2.69$ 0.08$ 3.07%
Consumption 78.30$ 80.70$ 2.40$ 3.07%
Storm Drainage
Service charge 16.00$ 17.60$ 1.60$ 10.00%
Bassett Creek Fee*1.93$ 1.93$ -$ 0.00%Bassett Creek fee
Solid Waste (includes tax)62.97$ 64.58$ 1.61$ 2.56%
Total Bill without Bassett*230.52$ 240.47$ 9.95$ 4.32%Not including BCWMC
Increase per quarter (dollars)9.95$
Increase per year (dollars)39.80$
* Since not all property owners would be charged this fee, it is not included in the dollar or percentage change in total bill.
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 6a)
Title: 2014 Proposed Budget, Tax Levy and Truth in Taxation Public Hearing Page 5
CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK
RESIDENTIAL ESTIMATED CITY SHARE OF PROPERTY TAXES
2014 PRELIMINARY PROPERTY TAX LEVY
3.50% INCREASE
As of 12-02-13
* These are estimated figures at particular price points.
Homes at the price points will not experience these exact changes.
Assessed Market Val.Taxable Taxable Estimated City Tax Dollar Percent
2012 For 2013 For Market Market 2013 2014 Change Change
Pay 2013 Pay 2014 Value 2013 Value 2014
150,000 123,600 126,260.00 97,484.00 608.93 488.60 -120.33 -19.8%
200,000 190,800 180,760.00 170,732.00 871.77 855.73 -16.04 -1.8%
214,600 204,700 196,674.00 185,883.00 948.52 931.66 -16.86 -1.8%
300,000 296,100 289,760.00 285,509.00 1,397.45 1,431.00 33.55 2.4%
350,000 343,000 344,260.00 336,630.00 1,660.30 1,687.22 26.93 1.6%
400,000 396,000 398,760.00 394,400.00 1,923.14 1,976.77 53.63 2.8%
500,000 505,000 500,000.00 505,000.00 2,411.40 2,531.11 119.71 5.0%
600,000 606,000 600,000.00 606,000.00 3,014.25 3,170.15 155.90 5.2%
700,000 707,000 700,000.00 707,000.00 3,617.10 3,802.93 185.83 5.1%
Assumptions:
2013 and 2014 tax capacity rate based on Hennepin County information.
Tax capacity rates increase from 1% to 1.25% for values over $500,000.
= Median Value Home in St. Louis Park
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 6a)
Title: 2014 Proposed Budget, Tax Levy and Truth in Taxation Public Hearing
Page 6
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: December 2, 2013
Action Agenda Item: 8a
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: M.G.M. Off Sale Liquor License
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Motion to approve Off Sale Intoxicating Liquor License for
M.G.M. of St. Louis Park, LLC, dba MGM Wine and Spirits, located at 8100 Highway 7, Unit
#348, for the license term through March 1, 2014.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: Does the applicant meet all criteria necessary for approval of a
liquor license?
SUMMARY: The City received an application from M.G.M. of St. Louis Park, LLC; dba
MGM Wine and Spirits, for an off-sale intoxicating liquor license for its proposed establishment
located at 8100 Highway 7, Unit #348. The premises consist of 8,891 sq. ft. which includes a
portion of the existing Party City business space, which is to be subdivided into four tenant
business spaces within the Knollwood Mall property. Terrance Maglich, Vice President, and
Michael Maglich, Chief Manager, each hold a 50% interest in the company.
A public hearing was held at the November 18, 2013 City Council Meeting. At that meeting, the
application for the off-sale liquor license did not receive enough votes for approval. The
applicant requested that the City Council reconsider its action. A motion for reconsideration was
then approved which placed the matter back before the Council. A motion was then approved to
table consideration of the application until the December 2 Council Meeting. Excerpts from the
November 18 meeting minutes are attached to this report.
The store will be managed by Randy Weber, who has worked for MGM since 2001. Hours of
operation will be Monday – Saturday, 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, which is the full range of hours
allowed by Minnesota State Statute. A ten-year lease has been agreed upon with Knollwood
Mall, LLC contingent upon M.G.M., LLC, being issued an off-sale liquor and tobacco license.
Should Council approve the liquor license, no actual license is issued until final compliance is
met City Inspections Department and State Alcohol and Gambling Enforcement Division.
The Police Department has run a full background investigation, and nothing was discovered
during the course of this investigation that would warrant denial of the license. The application
materials were submitted properly and completed satisfactorily. The application and Police
report are on file in the Office of the City Clerk.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: Fees for this applicant include $500 for the
police background investigation and $380 for the annual license fee.
VISION CONSIDERATION: Not applicable.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: November 18, 2013 Meeting Minutes Excerpts
Prepared by: Nancy Stroth, City Clerk
Approved by: Tom Harmening , City Manager
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 8a) Page 2
Title: M.G.M. Off Sale Liquor License
November 18 Council Meeting Minutes Excerpts
6c. Public Hearing – M.G.M. of St. Louis Park, LLC, Liquor License
Ms. Stroth presented the staff report and advised that M.G.M. of St. Louis Park, LLC, has made
application for an off-sale intoxicating liquor license at 8100 Highway 7 in the Knollwood Mall
consisting of approximately 8,890 square feet. She stated it is possible that M.G.M. of St. Louis
Park, LLC, may not open until March of next year, however, the State Alcohol Division
recommended that the liquor license be approved to cover the current liquor license term through
March 1, 2014.
Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross opened the public hearing.
Mr. Terrance Maglich, Vice President, M.G.M. of St. Louis Park, LLC, approached the City
Council and introduced Mr. Michael Maglich, co-owner of M.G.M. of St. Louis Park, LLC, and
requested Council’s support in issuing the requested liquor license.
Councilmember Hallfin asked if M.G.M. of St. Louis Park, LLC, has other stores.
Mr. Maglich replied they have only one store in St. Louis Park and this is a new corporation. He
stated they have been working with Rouse Properties and have reached agreement on retrofitting
the Party City space and adding a new fascia on the building.
Mr. Larry Jones, 8216 30 ½ Street, appeared before the City Council and asked if the City has a
requirement for a one-mile separation between off-sale liquor establishments.
Mr. Harmening replied that the City does not have this requirement.
Mr. Jones requested that the City Council consider an ordinance with a one-mile separation but
allowing liquor establishments already in existence to be grandfathered in.
Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross stated a possible ordinance could be discussed at a study session.
Councilmember Mavity asked if the one-mile separation ordinance is present in other
communities.
Mr. Scott stated he has seen this type of ordinance in other communities and it is something the
City Council could consider if it wishes.
Councilmember Hallfin stated that Council has talked about the number of off-sale liquor
establishments in the City and requested that Council have a study session discussion about this
issue. He indicated there is an established liquor store across the street and if MGM moves in, it
is going to hurt the established liquor store adding that the MGM store will be closer to Cub and
business will shift from the established store to the new store.
Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross closed the public hearing.
It was moved by Councilmember Santa, seconded by Councilmember Spano, to approve off-sale
intoxicating liquor license for M.G.M. of St. Louis Park, LLC, dba MGM Wine and Spirits,
located at 8100 Highway 7, Unit #348 (Knollwood Mall), for the license term through March 1,
2014.
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 8a) Page 3
Title: M.G.M. Off Sale Liquor License
The motion failed 3-2 (Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross and Councilmember Hallfin opposed; Mayor
Jacobs and Councilmember Sanger absent).
Mr. Harmening stated that the motion required four affirmative votes, thus, the application for
the off-sale liquor license was not approved.
Mr. Maglich stated they have never been denied a liquor license in 35 years of business and this
was a serious reflection on their company that enjoys a stellar reputation. He stated they
probably would have pulled their application if City staff had given them any indication that
their application would be turned down and he respectfully requested that the City Council
reconsider its action.
Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross requested City Attorney guidance about the process for
reconsidering.
Mr. Scott advised there could be a motion to reconsider by anyone who voted against the motion,
i.e., Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross or Councilmember Hallfin, and at that time, the matter is back
on the table and the City Council votes on whether to reconsider the liquor license application.
He added it does not appear that the City Council has any basis for denying the liquor license
application.
Councilmember Mavity felt that Council should reconsider, adding she did not think this was a
fair way to conduct business and apologized to Mr. Maglich. She also felt there were legitimate
issues to consider and wanted to make sure Council considers this matter thoughtfully and
thoroughly so that businesses are encouraged to come to St. Louis Park because they know they
will be treated fairly.
Mr. Maglich stated if someone had indicated there was a strong possibility that the license would
be denied, they would not have gone forward with their application. He added this denial has a
serious implication on damaging their company and reputation.
Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross stated it was not her intention to damage Mr. Maglich or his
company, adding she understood their position and would reopen the matter for reconsideration.
She stated it was her belief there are a lot of liquor stores in close proximity of each other in the
City, adding she did not know MGM was planning to come to St. Louis Park and could not have
given them any forewarning about the vote tonight.
Mr. Scott advised that one option is for Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross or Councilmember Hallfin
to make a motion to reconsider for the purpose of allowing Mr. Maglich to withdraw their
application, which means their application would not have been denied by Council. He stated
another option is to bring a motion for reconsideration of this item at the next City Council
meeting at which time there would be another vote on the liquor license application.
Councilmember Hallfin stated he was fine letting the motion stand the way it is now.
Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross stated she wanted to be fair to Mr. Maglich and would make a
motion to reconsider and bring the matter back before the City Council.
It was moved by Acting Mayor Pro Tem Ross, seconded by Councilmember Santa, to reconsider
the liquor license application for M.G.M. of St. Louis Park, LLC, dba MGM Wine and Spirits,
located at 8100 Highway 7, for the license term through March 1, 2014.
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 8a) Page 4
Title: M.G.M. Off Sale Liquor License
The motion passed 4-1 (Councilmember Hallfin opposed; Jacobs and Sanger absent).
Mr. Scott advised that it is now up to Mr. Maglich whether to withdraw their application. He
added Council could also table the matter if there are four votes.
It was moved by Councilmember Mavity, seconded by Councilmember Spano, to table the
consideration of the off-sale intoxicating liquor license for M.G.M. of St. Louis Park, LLC, until
the City Council’s next regular meeting of December 2, 2013.
The motion passed 4-1 (Councilmember Hallfin opposed; Mayor Jacobs and Councilmember
Sanger absent).
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: December 2, 2013
Action Agenda Item: 8b
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: Louisiana Station Area Framework Plan and Design Guidelines Report
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Motion to accept the Louisiana Station Area Framework and
Design Guidelines report.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: Does City Council support the framework plan and design
guidelines presented in the report?
SUMMARY: There are three planning and zoning items on Monday night’s agenda that relate to
the Southwest Light Rail Transit (SWLRT) station areas. Prior to City Council consideration of
the individual agenda items, staff will provide a brief explanation of how these three separate
items work together to guide development of the SWLRT station areas.
The purpose of the Louisiana Station Area Framework and Design Guidelines is to guide both
public and private development and infrastructure investment towards the desired character and
vision for the station area. The Framework and Design Guidelines are advisory and are intended
to complement the City’s policies and regulations. The City hired Hoisington Koegler Group,
Inc. (HKGi) to facilitate the planning process and prepare the plan, which explores improved
multimodal access to the station, land use/character, and design guidelines for the area.
City Council discussed the concept plans at its Study Session on September 9, 2013. The report
has evolved and expanded since then to reflect City Council comments, as well as comments
from subsequent public input. Please review the full report on the City website (the link is below).
City Council acceptance of the report will conclude this planning process. City Council need not
adopt the plan or design guidelines at this time. The City will use the report as a guide when
evaluating the SWLRT design and as a starting point for the upcoming form-based code process.
It may be incorporated into, or referenced in, the Comprehensive Plan at a later date.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: The total budget for this plan is $75,000.
A Metropolitan Council Livable Communities Predevelopment Grant is funding 75% of the costs
for the Louisiana LRT Station Area Plan. The City’s Development Fund is providing the 25%
match. The grant expires on December 31, 2013, so the plan needs to be complete and accepted
by the end of the year.
VISION CONSIDERATION: St. Louis Park is committed to being a connected and engaged
community.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS:
• Discussion
• Louisiana Station Area Framework and Design Guidelines Report (Report Link)
(www.stlouispark.org/webfiles/file/community-dev/louisiana-planning-design-guidelines-DRAFT-131126.pdf)
Prepared by: Sean Walther, Senior Planner
Reviewed by: Michele Schnitker, Housing Supervisor
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
Study Session Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 8b) Page 2
Title: Louisiana Station Area Framework Plan and Design Guidelines Report
DISCUSSION
BACKGROUND: The Louisiana Station Area Framework Plan and Design Guidelines project
began in May 2013. The City hired Hoisington Koegler Group, Inc. (HKGi) to facilitate the
planning process and prepare the plan.
City staff and HKGi coordinated this planning effort with the SWLRT Preliminary Design being
conducted by the Met Council and the on-going Transitional Station Area Action Planning
(TSAAP) being conducted by Hennepin County Community Works. TSAAP has incorporated
the City’s Louisiana Station Area Framework Plan and recommends certain opening day
improvements.
Purpose: The purpose of the Louisiana Station Area Framework and Design Guidelines is to
guide both public and private development and infrastructure investment towards the desired
character and vision for the station area. The final document is divided into three sections: (1)
Context, (2) Framework, and (3) Design Guidelines. The Framework and Design Guidelines are
advisory and are intended to complement the City’s policies and regulations.
Public Input: City staff and HKGi gathered public input through an Advisory Committee, City
Council Study Session, Community Meeting, Planning Commission Study Session, and several
other stakeholder meetings.
• Advisory Committee: The Advisory Committee members represent several of the
neighborhoods, businesses, and property owners in the area. The advisory committee
members – and affiliation – are listed below:
o Sue Carson – Creekside Neighborhood
o C. Colin Cox – South Oak Hill Neighborhood
o Paula Evensen – Elmwood Neighborhood
o Lenore Kaibel – MSP Property Management (Louisiana Oaks Apartments)
o Michael Kelner – Hardcoat, Inc.
o Robert Kramer – Planning Commissioner
o Lisa Pannell – Brooklawns Neighborhood
o Chad Pederson – Brooklawns Neighborhood
o Sarah Schwabel – Oak Hill Neighborhood
o Mark Reuter – South Oak Hill Neighborhood
o Robert Riesselman – Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital
o Duane Spiegle – Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital
o Tom Whitlock – Brooklawns Neighborhood
The Advisory Committee met five times over seven months. The committee provided
valuable feedback on the vision, guiding principles, important connections, future land
use, desired development character, as well as preferences regarding multiple concept
plans that were generated for each of the LRT Station platform locations.
• Community Meeting: A Community Open House was held on Wednesday, September
25, at the Municipal Service Center to offer residents and business owners a chance to
review preliminary concept plans for the Louisiana Station Area. Approximately 25
participants reviewed the draft plans and shared ideas about ways to improve access and
circulation around the future LRT station and about the land uses, character, and potential
redevelopment of the area. Comments focused on developing strong connections to
Study Session Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 8b) Page 3
Title: Louisiana Station Area Framework Plan and Design Guidelines Report
surrounding neighborhoods, the Cedar Lake LRT Trail and Methodist Hospital. Many in
attendance agreed with the office medical focus for land use in the district, but also
wanted to provide opportunities for commercial space that would both benefit the
employees and the surrounding residents.
• Other Stakeholder Meetings: City staff met with seven other stakeholder groups over the
past seven months, including several commercial business owners, residents of
Meadowbrook Manor, Minnehaha Creek Watershed District, Planning Commissioners,
and key property owners. The meeting at Meadowbrook Manor included a diverse group
of ten adults and twelve children.
Report Overview: In September, the City Council reviewed preliminary framework plans for
the north and south station locations as well as the draft vision statement and guiding principles.
With input received from the Council and community, HKGi worked with City staff to develop
the final document. The presentation at the Monday, December 2 City Council meeting will
focus on the core elements of the plan: the Vision and Guiding Principles, the Framework Plans
(for both North and South station locations) and the Design Guidelines.
• Vision: Envisioning the future Louisiana transit station area brings together long-term
community plans and goals with more recent planning initiatives focused specifically on
this transit station area. At the community-level, St. Louis Park has established a vision
of creating and maintaining a very livable community where people choose to stay long-
term. The City has adopted ten Livable Community Principles that embrace the best
community design practices from the past and present for creating a complete and
connected community. The vision statement for the Louisiana station area builds upon
this community vision.
As a major employment center with a growing medical/healthcare facility, attractive
open spaces, regional trail connection, and proximity to regional roadways, the
Louisiana transit station area has great opportunities to evolve into a unique and vibrant
community destination for jobs, healthcare, and recreation. The Louisiana Station Area
vision embraces the following key elements:
o Louisiana/Oxford Employment Center: Preservation and integration of medical,
office, industrial, and supporting commercial businesses that maintain and grow jobs.
o Healthcare/Wellness District: Leveraging the growing demand for healthcare and
healthy active lifestyles to create a unique wellness district.
o Open Space And Recreational Destination: Connected open space and recreation
assets, including walking, biking, and canoeing, for residents, employees, and the
broader community
o Louisiana Loop Streets and Trails: Loop streets and trails provide connections from
Louisiana Ave to transit station, employment center, and healthcare/wellness district
for residents, employees and visitors of the station area.
o Pedestrian Pathway: Creation of attractive and identifiable pedestrian pathway
between the transit station and the medical campus.
Study Session Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 8b) Page 4
Title: Louisiana Station Area Framework Plan and Design Guidelines Report
o Unique Sense of Identity: New public streets and spaces and private redevelopment
contribute to creating a unique and identifiable place.
• Guiding Principles: To support the master plan vision, 10 guiding principles have been
established to clarify the priority directions for achieving the vision. These guiding
principles provide a means for directing and evaluating future planning, designing, and
investing in improvements to the station area. The guiding principles encompass the
station area’s future identity, economic development, land use and building patterns,
connectivity, parking management, and important community amenities. As the
community moves forward with public improvements and private development projects
in the station area, the guiding principles should serve as the first tool for evaluating
projects regarding their fit with the master plan. The guiding principles are also intended
to be touchstones for future City policies, plans, and decision-making related to the
Louisiana station area (including form based zoning). Numbered for reference only, the
following represent the ten guiding principles for the Louisiana station area:
1. Promote growth and investment in the Louisiana Ave station area as an
EMPLOYMENT CENTER supporting a broad range of business sectors, including
healthcare, office, industrial, and commercial.
2. Leverage the growing demand for healthcare to create a new district that links
expanded MEDICAL services with HEALTH-CONSCIOUS/ WELLNESS lifestyle
needs.
3. Capture the value potential of investing in high quality transit service, including
maximizing transit RIDERSHIP, optimizing ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, and
leveraging desirable STATION AREA AMENITIES for the surrounding business
district and neighborhoods.
4. Provide a SAFE, CONVENIENT, and PLEASANT transit station center that
incorporates user-friendly features, such walking access, bicycling access, vehicle
drop-off/pick-up, bus connections, parking, and a transit plaza.
5. Create a unifying STATION AREA IDENTITY that builds upon its assets (such as
large employment center, healthcare services, Minnehaha Creek, Cedar Lake Trail,
surrounding neighborhoods), promotes its future potential, and provides a SENSE OF
PLACE.
6. Create a CONNECTED AND COMPLETE STREETS NETWORK within the station
area, including a transit-oriented loop street off of Louisiana Ave.
7. Design a CONNECTED WALK/BIKE NETWORK that creates a very pedestrian-
and bike-oriented district, including a pedestrian pathway between the transit station
and the medical campus.
8. Encourage TRANSIT-ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT that supports transit use,
establishes a station area center, increases the mix and density of land uses, and
improves the street environment.
9. MANAGE PARKING effectively to support station area parking needs while
lessening the negative impacts on development potential and the pedestrian
environment.
10. Create a WELL-CONNECTED and desirable network of parks, plazas and natural
open spaces for the business district and surrounding neighborhoods.
• Framework Plans:
o North Station: A pedestrian only street or pathway creates a strong connection from
the west end of the platform (located against the existing freight rail embankment) to
Study Session Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 8b) Page 5
Title: Louisiana Station Area Framework Plan and Design Guidelines Report
the hospital. Uses in the center of the district are focused on office and medical with
opportunities for ground-level commercial/retail uses located along portions of
Louisiana Avenue and a new public street running parallel to Oxford Street a block
south. This street creates a new grid of streets to breakdown the existing large block
pattern, developing a more pedestrian friendly character. The switching wye is
converted to a pedestrian trail to connect the Brooklawns and Elmwood
Neighborhood residents to the east edge of the platform and the Cedar Lake LRT
Trail. Industrial uses flank the office medical uses in the core.
o South Station: The station location immediately east of Louisiana and just north of
the hospital is further enhanced with a transit plaza directly to the north and tied to a
new public street loop connecting back to the park and ride located against the freight
rail embankment. Office and Medical are again the focus of uses in the core of the
district with industrial uses surrounding, both new development and preserved areas
of industrial. Along the new loop street, ground level commercial/retail uses are
envisioned. The opportunity exists for the hospital to create a new front door close to
the east end of the platform with a building expansion The switching wye is
converted to a pedestrian trail to connecting more east to west allowing the
Brooklawns and Elmwood Neighborhood residents to connect to the station and
ultimately to the trail network along Minnehaha Creek.
• Design Guidelines: Connectivity to the station from the surrounding neighborhoods and
the hospital is critical for the success of the Louisiana Station Area. As such, the design
guidelines focus heavily on the design of the public realm. Representative street sections
for all streets in the station area were developed to provide an understanding of the
roadway, bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure as well as the relationship of buildings to
the street. High quality building materials and green design principles are highlighted for
building construction. Stormwater treatment is also a strong priority with the proximity
of development to Minnehaha Creek. Utilizing the boulevards of public streets and
developing on-site treatment technique are recommended within the guidelines.
Report Organization: The final document is divided into three sections: (1) Context, (2)
Framework, and (3) Design Guidelines.
1. Context: This section provides background on the project, the station area, and precedent
planning projects.
Chapter 1: Introduction
• Provides a project overview, project goals, planning context, and potential station
locations.
Chapter 2: Existing Conditions
• Examines current land use and development patterns, connectivity issues, and
parks and open space networks- and identifies key constraints and opportunities.
Chapter 3: Precedent Studies
• Summarizes key takeaways from five precedent station area planning projects
related to development around a healthcare/medical campus.
Study Session Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 8b) Page 6
Title: Louisiana Station Area Framework Plan and Design Guidelines Report
2. Framework: This section describes the preferred vision, guiding principles, and future
development patterns for the station area.
Chapter 4: Vision + Guiding Principles
• Presents the future vision and guiding principles for the Louisiana station area.
Chapter 5: Framework Plans
• Presents framework plans and descriptions of preferred future development
patterns in the station area.
• Four Framework Plans:
o Access + Circulation Plan
Street Network
Pedestrian and Bike Network
Hospital Connection
o Land Use + Development Plan
o Parks + Open Space Plan
o Illustrative Master Plan
• All framework plans are developed for both north and south station
alternatives.
3. Design Guidelines: The design guidelines provide written and graphic description of the
desired design character for future development, infrastructure, and parks/open spaces in
the station area.
Chapter 6: Access + Circulation Design Guidelines
• Addresses streets, pedestrian facilities, bike facilities, LRT station, and
wayfinding/signage. It also establishes a street typology for the station area.
Chapter 7: Land Use + Development Design Guidelines
• Addresses site development and buildings, such as building relationship to the
street, height, massing, and facade features.
Chapter 8: Parks + Open Space Design Guidelines
• Addresses parks, open spaces, stormwater management, public art, and a potential
transit plaza.
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: December 2, 2013
Action Agenda Item: 8c
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: Business Park Rezoning of Properties near Hwy 7 & Louisiana Ave. S., Wooddale Ave.
S., and Belt Line Blvd.
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Motion to approve First Reading to rezone 42 properties for
Business Park zoning and set second reading for December 16, 2013.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: Does the City Council wish to rezone specified properties
consistent with the Business Park designation in the Comprehensive Plan?
SUMMARY:
The City Council adopted the new Business Park zoning district in 2012. The intent of creating
this district was to transition from current industrial uses to a wider variety of uses and allow
higher densities in anticipation of light rail transit and development in the station areas. The
district was designed to better meet market conditions by keeping some lighter industrial uses,
allowing some new uses, and permitting higher densities. There are limits on heavy industrial,
warehousing and outdoor storage; the intent was to phase out such uses over time.
The Business Park zoning district is the first step towards evolving land uses and development
around the LRT station areas. Several more planning processes will continue to refine the design
and land uses. The Transitional Station Area Action Plans (TSAAP) are being finalized and
along with other previous studies will provide the basis for additional refinements to zoning and
codes for the station areas. The form-based code (FBC) process in 2014-15 will take a much
more detailed look at properties in each station area and recommend specific code changes to
facilitate transit-oriented development in and near the station areas.
Of the 57 properties designated for Business Park in the City’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan,
42 are recommended for rezoning at this time. The properties that are not recommended at this
time include the area in the southeast quadrant of Belt Line Boulevard and CSAH 25 which is
under review with the SW LRT planning for a park and ride location and for opportunities as a
“Joint Development” site as a part of the LRT project, and those whose owners are not in favor
of changing the zoning on their property at this time. Please see attached map for properties
recommended for rezoning.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: Not applicable.
VISION CONSIDERATION: St. Louis Park is a connected and engaged community.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: Discussion
Business Park Zoning Summary
Ordinance – 1st Reading Rezoning Properties
Planning Commission Minutes Excerpt
Map of Recommended BP Zoning Changes
Prepared by: Meg J. McMonigal, Planning and Zoning Supervisor
Reviewed by: Michele Schniker, Housing Supervisor
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 8c) Page 2
Title: Business Park Rezoning of Properties near Hwy 7 and Louisiana Ave, Wooddale Ave, & Belt Line Blvd
DISCUSSION
Background:
The Business Park zone was developed to be a transition zone for the areas around the LRT
stations and other industrial areas in the city that are experiencing changes. The intent is to allow
a wider variety of uses, as has been recently requested in many of the industrial areas, and work
toward the transformation of the station areas into more mixed use and transit-oriented
development (TOD) areas.
The Comprehensive Plan designated some of the city’s more visible industrial areas near LRT
stations for Business Park. The intent was to encourage the creation of employment centers that
accommodated a greater mix of uses, higher quality of design, greater diversity of jobs, higher
development densities and increase property values. Rezoning the designated properties to
Business Park will bring them into compliance with the Comprehensive Plan.
Process:
Following adoption of the new Business Park zoning district, City Council directed staff to move
forward with rezoning the properties designated Business Park on the Comprehensive Land Use
Map. This includes 57 properties (41 owners). Several meetings were held with business and
property owners, and two larger open-house meetings were held in September 2012. Additional
contact with property owners also occurred, including meetings, phone calls and email
communications.
On November 7, 2012 a public hearing was held at the Planning Commission. The Commission
recommended approval with the exception of three properties whose owners objected to the
rezoning prior to the public hearing. Three additional property owners spoke at the hearing,
including Mr. Saliterman, who objected to rezoning his five properties. The others had questions
and/or were new property owners. Staff agreed to re-contact all property owners and discuss
rezoning properties further.
Three property owners originally requested that they not be included in the rezoning and remain
as is, zoned Industrial Park or General Industrial. These are:
1. Mr. Ben Smith, Burch-Keats LLC, 5100 35th Street West
• American Tire (distribution)
2. Mr. Dick Nelson, Nelson Development Company, 3501 State Hwy 100
• Desq Office Solutions, Centerpoint Massage School
3. Mr. Don Kasbohm, DMD Properties LLC, 5725 State Hwy 7
• Former McGarvey Coffee site
The first two property owners listed had concerns about the needs of tenants who might wish to
expand the amount of warehousing done on-site. The Business Park District restricts
warehousing to no greater than 50% of the building; if the building is already over 50%, the
warehousing can continue indefinitely, but may not be expanded. This means that all the
existing uses in the properties to be rezoned may continue, but cannot expand under current state
law. The third property owner purchased the McGarvey Coffee site intending to redevelop the
site for residential.
In June, 2013, postcards were sent out to all current property owners about the rezoning with
links to information on the city’s web site and contact information for two planning staff. Staff
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 8c) Page 3
Title: Business Park Rezoning of Properties near Hwy 7 and Louisiana Ave, Wooddale Ave, & Belt Line Blvd
met with two of the property owners, Mr. Ben Smith and Mr. Mark Saliterman. On August 26,
2013, the City Council directed staff to schedule First Reading to rezone the properties with the
Planning Commission recommendation to except those properties whose owners formally
objected to the proposed rezoning.
Exceptions:
Originally all of the properties shown in the City’s Comprehensive Land Use Plan as Business
Park were recommended for rezoning. Some property owners objected to the change, for various
reasons as outlined in the Planning Commission discussion above. In addition, since the initial
consideration, the property to the southeast quadrant of the intersection of CSAH 25 and Belt
Line Boulevard has undergone much discussion on potential land uses. It is currently shown as a
park and ride site in the draft LRT project documents, and the city staff is working with the
Southwest Project Office to consider it for a “Joint Development” site. Joint Development
would likely include a mixed use development with structured parking. Additional work is
needed on the Joint Development or Mixed Use concept and will continue over the coming
months.
The city also recently received a grant from Met Council to pursue and consider a new type of
regulations in the LRT station areas called “form-based codes.” This type of code is similar to
the design guidelines processes we have undertaken in various areas around the city where the
design is essentially laid out in advance of development and expectations are known. This would
allow more flexibility in uses, and as it is developed could overlay or replace the Business Park
zone. Residential uses would fit into this framework as well. The time frame for developing this
ordinance is 2013-14.
Recommendation:
In addition to the Planning Commission recommendation, it is recommended that the several
parcels located east of Belt Line Boulevard and south of CSAH 25 (north of trail and tracks) not
be rezoned at this time, in order to continue discussion on their future land use. Some of the
properties are shown as a Park and Ride site for the Beltline LRT station and further discussion
for a “Joint Development” as a part of the SW LRT project is under discussion.
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 8c) Page 4
Title: Business Park Rezoning of Properties near Hwy 7 and Louisiana Ave, Wooddale Ave, & Belt Line Blvd
Business Park Zoning Summary
The Business Park Zoning District is based on the recommendations of the 2030 Comprehensive
Plan. The intent statements from the Comprehensive Plan regarding the new district are:
• Encouraging the creation of significant employment centers that accommodate a diverse
mix of office and light industrial uses and jobs.
• Application of the category for larger sites that can be redeveloped to provide:
§ A greater diversity of jobs
§ Higher development densities and jobs per acre
§ Higher quality site and building architectural design
§ Increased tax revenues for the community
• Appropriate uses may include office, office showroom-warehousing, research and
development services, light and high-tech electronic manufacturing and assembly, and
medical laboratories.
• Some retail and service uses may be allowed as supporting uses for the primary office
and light industrial uses of the employment center.
Summary Table – Business Park compared to Office and Industrial Park
Performance Standard / Use Business Park Office Industrial Park
Outdoor storage Prohibited Prohibited Accessory Use
Hours of operation Limited when adjacent to
residential
No restrictions Permit needed for overnight
use when adjacent to
residential
Offices Permitted Permitted Conditional Use Permit
Banks / Medical Offices Permitted Permitted Not permitted
Restaurants / Retail / Service Permitted if < 25% of building Permitted Permitted only in a Planned
Unit Development
Light manufacturing Conditional Use Permit Not permitted Permitted
Heavy manufacturing Not permitted Not permitted Permitted
Warehouse / Storage Permitted if < 50% of the building Not permitted Permitted
Large item retail (i.e.,
furniture)
Permitted if < 15% of the building Not permitted Permitted if < 15% of the
building
Planned Unit Developments Only jobs oriented Unrestricted Only retail / service
Setbacks when adjacent to
residential
30 feet or building height Half of
building height
35 feet or use of a formula
Maximum building height 110 feet / 55 feet if adjacent to
single family residential
240 feet 75 feet
Maximum floor area ratio 2.0 1.5 0.5
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 8c) Page 5
Title: Business Park Rezoning of Properties near Hwy 7 and Louisiana Ave, Wooddale Ave, & Belt Line Blvd
ORDINANCE NO.____-13
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ST. LOUIS PARK ORDINANCE CODE
CHANGING ZONING BOUNDARIES OF 42 INDUSTRIAL PROPERTIES NEAR
HIGHWAY 7 AND LOUISIANA AVENUE S., WOODDALE AVE. S., AND BELT LINE
BLVD. TO BUSINESS PARK
THE CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK DOES ORDAIN:
Section 1. The City Council has considered the advice and recommendation of the
Planning Commission (Case No. 12-29-Z).
Section 2. The St. Louis Park Zoning Ordinance adopted December 28, 1959,
Ordinance No. 730; amended December 31, 1992, Ordinance No. 1902-93, amended December
17, 2001, Ordinance No. 2216-01, as heretofore amended, is hereby further amended by
changing the zoning district boundaries by reclassifying 42 Industrial zoned properties near
Highway 7 and Louisiana Avenue S., Wooddale Ave. S., and Belt Line Blvd. to Business Park
zoning as indicated on the attached map.
Section 3. The contents of Planning Case File 12-29-Z are hereby entered into and
made part of the public hearing record and the record of decision for this case.
Section 4. This ordinance shall take effect fifteen days after its publication.
First Reading December 2, 2013
Second Reading December 16, 2013
Date of Publication December 26, 2013
Date Ordinance takes effect January 10, 2014
Reviewed for Administration Adopted by the City Council December 16, 2013
City Manager Mayor
Attest: Approved as to Form and Execution:
City Clerk City Attorney
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 8c) Page 6
Title: Business Park Rezoning of Properties near Hwy 7 and Louisiana Ave, Wooddale Ave, & Belt Line Blvd
OFFICIAL MINUTES - EXCERPT
PLANNING COMMISSION
ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
NOVEMBER 7, 2012 – 6:00 p.m.
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
MEMBERS PRESENT: Claudia Johnston-Madison, Robert Kramer,
Richard Person, Carl Robertson,
MEMBERS ABSENT: Lynne Carper, Dennis Morris, Larry Shapiro
STAFF PRESENT: Meg McMonigal, Gary Morrison, Julie Grove,
Nancy Sells
1. Call to Order – Roll Call
2. Approval of Minutes of September 19, 2012
Commissioner Robertson made a motion to approve the minutes of September 19, 2012.
Commissioner Johnston-Madison seconded the motion, and the motion passed on a vote
of 4-0.
3. Public Hearings
A. Business Park Rezoning of 57 Properties
Location: Properties near Hwy. 7 and Louisiana Ave. S.
Wooddale Ave. S., and Beltline Blvd.
Applicant: City of St. Louis Park
Case No.: Case No. 12-29-Z
Meg McMonigal, Planning and Zoning Supervisor, presented the staff report. She stated
that the intent of the Business Park Comprehensive Land Use Guide and Zoning
Designation is to increase the number of jobs per acre, maintain business employment
areas within St. Louis Park, and allow for redevelopment in accordance with current
market trends for office and related business activities.
Julie Grove, Economic Development and Planning Assistant, spoke about the public
process. Several meetings were held with property owners in 2009 when the
Comprehensive Plan designation was changed. A series of open houses were held in the
summer of 2012 regarding the rezoning to Business Park. Several neighborhood
representatives also attended the open houses. The recent public hearing notice was sent
to specific property owners and to all properties within 350 feet of parcels proposed for
rezoning. Ms. Grove said staff also met separately with any property owner requesting a
meeting. Correspondence also occurred between city staff and several property owners.
Ms. McMonigal stated that in meetings with property owners there was the opportunity to
thoroughly review the Business Park zoning. She said most of the property owners staff
met with would like the property rezoned. Three owners, identified in the staff report,
do not want their properties rezoned.
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 8c) Page 7
Title: Business Park Rezoning of Properties near Hwy 7 and Louisiana Ave, Wooddale Ave, & Belt Line Blvd
Ms. McMonigal reviewed the proposed district. She explained that most of the 57
properties are in the older industrial areas and areas that are near future transit stations for
light rail transit. She said a great deal of time went into developing the idea of the
district, including the Industrial Study which was done in 2005, and from requests for a
variety of uses from property owners.
Chairperson Kramer asked about the immediate effect on some of the properties which
would be rezoned.
Ms. McMonigal explained that all of the properties are zoned General Industrial or
Industrial Park. They can continue any uses under those zoning districts for as long as
they like. If they discontinue them for a year, they can’t reuse the buildings for those
uses that are no longer permitted in the Business Park District. In addition to common
uses allowed in industrial areas and Business Park there are a few more uses allowed in
the Business Park areas. It opens it up to more office, more retail, and service uses. Ms.
McMonigal concluded by saying it is a step in that direction, not a wholesale change.
Chairperson Kramer asked about one year’s lapse and the non-conformity rule.
Gary Morrison, Assistant Zoning Administrator, stated that after one year’s lapse the
non-conformity technically goes away. If the use becomes less intense, it can’t
necessarily go back to increasing the non-conformity. The City usually accommodates
or works with property works in this situation and it hasn’t been a problem in the past.
Commissioner Robertson asked why the zoning should be changed on the three
properties whose owner’s wish to opt out.
Ms. McMonigal responded that the city is trying to accommodate future land uses and
move towards a certain direction. If the properties continue or expand industrial or heavy
truck uses then it will be a longer period before they turn over.
Chairperson Kramer opened the public hearing.
Mark Saliterman, 4725, 4301 and 3113 Lynn Ave. S., said he requested that his
properties not be included in the rezoning. He commented that the rezoning has been
discussed for a long time. He said the Industrial Study is five years old and a lot has
changed in the economic world. He said the office market is probably the worst market
in real estate now. Mr. Saliterman said at one of the open houses he asked why a
rezoning was proposed. The response was to reduce truck traffic and to have people
travel by light rail and work in office buildings right there. When he asked who would
build office in this market he was told this was a project for the long term. He said to
force people to change to an office environment when it’s the worst environment out
there doesn’t make any sense. He spoke about multi-tenant situations. He has 15-20
different occupants in one building. If one goes vacant for one year it would affect the
entire building. He’d have a 10,000 sq. ft. warehouse in the middle of a complex which
can no longer be used for warehousing. Mr. Saliterman said when he asked staff at the
open house where workers would eat and shop if they traveled by light rail he was told
there would be small commissaries in office buildings. He said he made his feelings
known to staff and then wrote a letter to the Mayor.
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 8c) Page 8
Title: Business Park Rezoning of Properties near Hwy 7 and Louisiana Ave, Wooddale Ave, & Belt Line Blvd
Mr. Saliterman spoke about the desire for less truck traffic. He noted that the city just
approved a huge expansion for Nordic Ware which has an enormous amount of truck
traffic. He said the trucks aren’t coming from his corridor, they are coming from Nordic
Ware. He said the high end office which would be built probably wouldn’t have workers
using light rail, which would result in more car traffic.
Mr. Saliterman stated that over the years he’s been buying properties to redevelop. The
proposed rezoning would stop the redevelopment that owners are already implementing.
He said opting out might be a good thing. Mixed use might be a good thing. He
suggested something other than office, medical and light industrial would be good. He
stated that with rezoning, the values of properties will drop dramatically as the options
for the new buyer will be limited. He said the city is confining this too much and thinks
the rezoning needs to be reconsidered, at least in his area.
Don Kasbohm, 5605 W. 36th St., said he recently acquired the former McGarvey Coffee
site at 5725 State Hwy. 7. He said the economy is currently very strange. He said he’s
had 3,000 sq. ft. vacant at his office building for two years. There is currently too much
office space for the market. He said the McGarvey site is a logical place for an apartment
building. It’s not appropriate for medical office or restaurant. Building office buildings
doesn’t bring jobs. Industrial is better right now for keeping jobs. Mr. Kasbohm said he
strongly hopes that he can opt out of the rezoning as his property value will drop, and he
just bought the property.
Ben Smith, 5100 W. 35th St., said his building is very solid and not obsolete. He said he
commends the staff and has been extremely impressed over the years with the business
acumen and workability of the staff to get things done. He said approximately five years
ago he met with staff about his building and the industrial park and was told because of
the limited amount of industrial space within St. Louis Park, that segment and his
building in particular would remain industrial He spent $2.5 million on an addition along
with refurbishing his building and leased it to American Tire. It has been a very
successful business and the building has a lot of economic value. Mr. Smith said he
would have appreciated knowing about the rezoning before he put a lot of money into his
building. He said the economic hardship would be catastrophic to him since he just put
on a $5 million loan for the expansion and renovation. Mr. Smith said Ms. McMonigal
stated that opting out delays the properties from conforming into new zoning which tells
him that the city doesn’t like his new building. He said he would have liked to know that
five years ago when he expanded. He said it is a viable building. It has been completely
refurbished.
Mr. Smith said he has had several meetings with staff, including meeting with Adam
Fulton, Planner. He said Mr. Fulton stated in no uncertain terms that his building would
not conform to any of the uses proposed and very likely he would be able to voluntarily
enter the zoning at a time when the building does fit. Mr. Smith said another property
owner, Dick Nelson, 3501 State Hwy. 100, was told the same thing five years ago. Mr.
Nelson asked Mr. Smith to pass this information on as he could not attend the public
hearing.
Mr. Smith concluded by saying there is nothing wrong with opting out, and it is a
reasonable alternative, especially if the alternative would diminish the building’s value.
He remarked that Nordic Ware which has a very large building, lots of truck traffic, and
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 8c) Page 9
Title: Business Park Rezoning of Properties near Hwy 7 and Louisiana Ave, Wooddale Ave, & Belt Line Blvd
dock screening was not included in the rezoning. He remarked that a City owned lot
directly north of his building is being used as a car impound lot. It is not a sightly use,
and it isn’t included in the rezoning. He encouraged the Commission to take their time
on this issue and listen to the concerns of property owners.
Mr. Kasbohm said the idea of Business Park is not a bad idea. He said the one thing all
his commercial advisors told him about his property, the former McGarvey Coffee site, is
that the site is an island. There is no synergy. The Business Park zone does not work for
his site at all.
Chairperson Kramer closed the hearing as there was no one else present wishing to speak.
Chairperson Kramer asked why the Nordic Ware building was not included in Business
Park.
Ms. McMonigal responded Nordic Ware is not included in the proposed Business Park
District because it is a large manufacturing company and without a wholesale change it
will remain there for a very long time.
Commissioner Robertson said Business Park includes 12 different permitted uses, not just
office. It includes 9 other uses permitted with conditions, and more with a Planned Unit
Development. He said he thinks the three property owners mentioned in the staff report
provide good arguments for opting out. He said one is a lone property, and the other two
are on the very edge of the business park. Leaving them as they are wouldn’t disrupt the
feel of the rest of the Business Park. Commissioner Robertson said he’d like to move
ahead on the rezoning and allow the three properties to opt out. He said he thought Mr.
Saliterman’s properties were appropriate for Business Park.
Commissioner Johnston-Madison said the Commission has spent a considerable amount
of time discussing Business Park zoning. She said she has always liked the idea of
Business Park. She said she agrees with Commissioner Robertson’s remarks about the
three properties being able to opt out. She said the city needs to be careful with the
properties on the south side of Hwy. 7. Those property owners should also be allowed to
opt out.
Commissioner Person said he agreed with the comments made about opting out for the
three properties mentioned in the staff report.
Chairperson Kramer said if a blighted area, desperate for change, was being discussed he
would support Business Park rezoning. He said he is bothered about the proposed
changes. There may be other property owners who didn’t understand about opting out.
Commissioner Robertson said he trusted the notification process. He said he has talked
to a number of owners in the area who are encouraged and behind the whole process.
Commissioner Robertson made a motion recommending approval of the rezoning of the
properties with the exception of those mentioned in the staff report who have requested to
opt out. Commissioner Johnston-Madison seconded the motion.
The Chair reopened the public hearing.
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 8c) Page 10
Title: Business Park Rezoning of Properties near Hwy 7 and Louisiana Ave, Wooddale Ave, & Belt Line Blvd
Mr. Smith requested that the motion specifically identify his property and the other three
properties mentioned, and perhaps the Saliterman properties.
Commissioner Robertson said the staff report is a public document and is referenced in
the motion.
Martha Arneson, representing the property at 4601 Hwy. 7, said she has not officially
decided about opting out. She said there may be other property owners who weren’t
aware of this option.
Ms. McMonigal said staff can go over all the properties and officially talk to them a little
bit further. A number of meetings were held when the Comprehensive Plan designation
was changed. Two meetings were held this summer and two notices were sent to all
property owners and staff has talked to many, many of the property owners. That
information can be documented and put together and staff will continue contacting
owners a little further. She said perhaps the phrase “opting out” shouldn’t have been
used. What is being proposed is a rezoning of several properties. The public hearing
process is held to determine if the properties should be rezoned.
Marv Dean, said he purchased 3200 Lynn Ave. S., formerly Superior Manufacturing, in
mid-September. He said he did not know about the proposed rezoning. He said staff
would not have known to contact him as he is a new owner.
The Chair closed the public hearing.
Chair Kramer said he opposed moving forward with the request.
The motion passed on a vote of 3-1 (Kramer opposed).
Ms. McMonigal said staff would recontact property owners again before the request goes
before the City Council.
E
0 0.25 0.50.125
Miles
Zoning Map:
Parcels Proposed for Rezoning to Business Park
City of St. Louis Park Zoning
Printed November 20, 2013
BP - Business Park
Not recommended for rezoning
MX - Mixed Use
C1 - Neighborhood Commercial
C2 - General Commercial
O - Office
IP - Industrial Park
IG - General Industrial
ZONING DISTRICT
SPL - Split (within >1 district)
POS - Parks & Open Space
R1 - Single Family Residential
R2 - Single Family Residential
R3 - Two-Family Residential
R4 - Multiple-Family Residential
RC - High-Density Multiple-Family Residential
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 8c)
Title: Business Park Rezoning of Properties near Hwy 7 and Louisiana Ave, Wooddale Ave, & Belt Line Blvd Page 11
Meeting: City Council
Meeting Date: December 2, 2013
Action Agenda Item: 8d
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TITLE: SWLRT Station Area Form-Based Code Grant Contract
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Motion to Authorize the Mayor and City Manager to execute a
contract with CodaMetrics to develop and write a form-based code for the three St. Louis Park
Southwest Light Rail Transit (SWLRT) station areas.
POLICY CONSIDERATION: Does the City Council wish to pursue the development of a form-
based code for the three St. Louis Park SWLRT station areas and hire a consultant to lead the
process?
SUMMARY: The Council approved the grant application for a Livable Communities
Demonstration Account-Transit Oriented Development (LCDA-TOD) Pre-Development grant from
the Metropolitan Council on May 20, 2013 to develop a form based code. The City was awarded the
grant in July, 2013.
Staff released a Request for Proposals (RFP) in September, 2013 for a consultant to lead the form
based code process and develop the code. Staff is recommending CodaMetrics, based in Chicago, IL
for this task. The project is expected to begin in January, 2014 and is expected to end in May, 2015.
City staff is considering a form-based code (FBC) as a regulatory tool to ensure that future
development in the three Southwest LRT station areas aligns with a vision as created by the
community. Form-based codes define the physical form of an area focusing on such standards as
building height, setback, massing, parking lot placement and street design. The intent of a FBC is to
better create walkable, mixed-use communities which work well in transit station areas.
Previous and current planning studies in each of the station areas provide a solid foundation for
developing the FBC. Using these documents as a starting point, the consultant will work with the
City on extensive public engagement to further develop the vision for each station area. This process
will provide a basis for the actual code regulations. Through the code development process, the
consultant will work with the Planning Commission, Council, developers, citizens and other
community groups to develop the St. Louis Park FBC.
FINANCIAL OR BUDGET CONSIDERATION: $25,000 City Match.
($125,000 total with $100,000 grant from the Metropolitan Council + $25,000 City match.)
VISION CONSIDERATION:
1. St. Louis Park is committed to being a connected and engaged community.
2. St. Louis Park is committed to promoting an integrating arts, culture and community aesthetics in
all City initiatives, including implementation where appropriate.
SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS: Scope of Services
Prepared by: Ryan Kelley, Associate Planner
Reviewed by: Meg McMonigal, Planning & Zoning Supervisor
Michele Schnitker, Housing Supervisor
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
Scope of Services
The following scope defines the method of developing the form-based codes for the
three station areas. This process is combined for the three areas with one working
group and development of one code that applies separately to each area.
Phase 1. Initial Review and Analysis
TASK 1A: SITE ANALYSIS
The first task of the project is intended to familiarize the Consultant with each station
area and the city as a whole. A thorough review will be conducted of all development
regulations, plans, and policies that impact the area's development. This review will
give us a base of knowledge upon which to begin our more detailed zoning analysis.
The Consultant will assess existing conditions, including a photographic inventory of
the current station areas and a catalog of the physical characteristics of the lot
developments and rights-of-way as well as the character of the surrounding
neighborhoods.
TASK 1B: GENERATE NECESSARY BACKGROUND MAPS
In advance of the first visit, the Consultant will work with the city to gather appropriate
GIS or CAD base information to create maps of the study areas. The maps will likely be
used during roundtable interviews, depending on the topics discussed. The maps will
continue to play an important role throughout the project as a way to communicate
information with the working group, key stakeholders, and the public at large.
TASK 1C: ESTABLISH A WORKING GROUP
To assist in building community support and creating champions for the new code, the
City will establish a 10 to 12 person working group, inclusive of planning and zoning
staff. The working group, led by staff, will be responsible for assisting with informing
the community of the code process and progress, representing the community as a
whole, reviewing the drafts of the code in detail, and helping to guide the coding
process. During the first site visit, a kick-off meeting will be held with staff and the
working group to introduce the team, the process, and form-based codes in general.
The Consultant will meet with the working group during each scheduled site visit.
Additional meetings may be required of the working group to review specific items
prior to code drafting and to review the code drafts.
TASK 1D: MEDIA COVERAGE AND WEBSITE
The Consultant will work in conjunction with city staff to determine the appropriate
message to communicate with the citizens of St. Louis Park. Two press releases will be
drafted that the city will then distribute to local media (online and print publications,
radio, blogs, etc). A brief summary of the project scope to be posted on the city's
website will be created, and will provide brief updates throughout the project. The
Consultant will also provide digital project materials, which can be posted to the
project website.
TASK 1E: INTERVIEWS
During the first visit to St. Louis Park, the Consultant will meet with the working group
and key city staff to set a common base of understanding for the project's goals and
November 2013
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 8d)
Title: SWLRT Station Area Form-Based Code Grant Contract Page 2
schedule. During these meetings, zoning concerns as well as opportunities and
constraints related to the new code will be discussed. The Consultant will also conduct
up to five roundtable interviews with selected stakeholder groups or individuals. These
meetings are an opportunity to gain further insights into the zoning issues of the
station areas from people who have a specific interest in the area. The Consultant will
work with the city to select appropriate roundtable participants.
Phase 2. Public Design Process
TASK 2A: DESIGN WORKSHOP I
The first public workshop will take place during the second site visit. This workshop will
include a short education component to discuss zoning in general, the advantages of
employing form-based regulations, and the starting points for developing a code for
the areas (the comprehensive plan and station area planning). This discussion will be
clearly illustrated to ensure that all participants, regardless of their background,
understand the concept, basic terms, and impact on St. Louis Park.
The primary goal of this workshop is to establish a sense of the expected image for the
area through the use of a robust visual preference survey (VPS). In our VPS,
participants are shown a series of PowerPoint slides, each containing photographs
related to appropriate categories or geographic areas. To offer a full range of options,
the images are typically drawn from local, regional, and national examples.
Participants score each image then images with the highest and lowest overall scores
are discussed at smaller table gatherings. The results of this process are used to help
establish preferred building and street types. Other activities will be designed based
on discussions with the working group and staff and the key person interviews in
Phase 1. These activities may include confirmation or further clarification of specific
expectations or elements to include, either by table exercises or discussions, or "dot"
voting on posters.
The results of the public workshop will be summarized and reported back to the city
and working group, and ultimately inform the preparation of the code. Summary
sheets with brief descriptions will be provided in digital format for the project website.
TASK 2A: DESIGN WORKSHOP II
The second public workshop will take place during the third site visit. Beginning with
the positive images identified for the different geographic areas during the first
workshop, the actual neighborhood components will be defined and mapped during
this workshop. Participants will determine the types of building masses and frontages
appropriate for different areas as well as other significant neighborhood elements such
as open space, continuity of all modes of transportation access.
For those who did not attend the first meeting, the Consultantprovide a recap,
including a summary of the livability principles from the comprehensive plan, the
results of the planning processes currently underway, and the current physical status
of the sites and surrounding areas. Basic parameters will be defined from which to
design the sites (i.e. adding to the mix of housing types in the community, including a
variety of public spaces, the number of households needed to support retail, possibly
drawn from any market information established by RCLCO during the station area
planning process). The purpose of these preliminary presentations is to equip the
November 2013
City Council Meeting of December 2, 2013 (Item No. 8d)
Title: SWLRT Station Area Form-Based Code Grant Contract Page 3
community with the knowledge needed to begin planning the sites.
The main activity of the first workshop will be a fun and engaging exercise to help
determine the appropriate development types within each station area. Attendees are
typically organized in small groups of 6 to 10 people with a trained leader for each
group. Each group works independently but in parallel on defining site characteristics,
the important building elements for each location, and potentials for site layout. The
Consultant will either employ a system of diagramming using markers and maps, or a
series of playing pieces (scaled building, open space, and street forms laid out on an
aerial map of the same scale) to guide the groups through exercises on the future of
the redevelopment areas. For every task, groups are encouraged to write any notes
they think would help communicate their ideas directly on the map. The large group
reconvenes, and one person from each group presents their plan, focusing on the
community's goals, creating a shared vision. Typically, considerable consensus is
reached on expected neighborhood, street and building forms. These results will help
define the code components and requirements for each district.
TASK 2C: GRAPHIC ILLUSTRATIONS
Based on the results of the two workshops, a series of graphics will be developed.
First, an illustrative plan will be created for each station area, illustrating the layout
and variety of components determined appropriate by the community. Second, street
sections and plan vignettes will be developed to illustrate appropriate street design.
And, finally, a series of transformation illustrations will be developed for each of the
station areas. These illustrations will be created by Steve Price with Urban Advantage.
(See www.urban-advantage.com for examples of these types of illustrations.) All of
these graphics should be posted on the website for community comment and review
during the code writing process.
TASK 2D: PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE
During the final stages of the code revisions, a public open house will be held to
provide the community the opportunity to discuss the draft code with the Consultant,
staff, and the working group. Posters of the key code components will be created,
allowing one on one interaction between the code drafters and reviewers and
individual community members. This open house will be held one to two hours prior to
an initial (Task 5A) Plan Commission presentation, during the final visit. Comment
cards will be available for the community to record comments, and staff and the
Consultant will record community concerns for discussion with the working group and
revision to the draft.
Phase 3. Drafting the Form-Based Code
TASK 3A: DESIGN PARAMETERS FOR THE FORM-BASED CODE
The code will include an overview, a regulating plan, building form, street, and open
space standards. The document will provide necessary text descriptions but will be a
highly illustrated document to graphically communicate the form-based regulations.
Plan drawings, elevations, and tables will be utilized throughout the form-based code
to detail the requirements, ensuring that they are easily understood by city staff,
developers, and residents and business owners alike. Below is a description of the
major sections of the code:
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OV E RVIEW
An opening section will be developed that will introduce the code to the user,
describing the process for using the code, and approving development proposals.
The Consultant will review the existing development processes in the city and will
work with staff to revise that process for the form-based regulations, creating a
list of appropriate submittals and determining what level of approval process is
necessary. As is necessary to ensure the efficient implementation of the new
standards, related review procedures and code administration will be amended
and new terms defined, both by text and graphics.
REGULATING PLAN
The regulating plan will show the boundaries of each station area, and will color
code or otherwise depict the intended location of the building forms, streets, and
use districts defined in the code. Other elements of the code specific to a
particular location may also be included on the regulating plan, such as locations
for tower elements, different build-to zones, special streetscape requirements, or
other civic/open space.
BUILDING FORM STANDARDS
The Consultant will develop an appropriate variety of building or frontage types
for each location. In this way, an appropriate scale of development is ensured for
the surrounding area. For each building type, the code will establish standards for
building placement, height, street facade characteristics, entrances, parking,
access, service, use, density, and special design features. Other design
requirements, such as building materials and balcony design, may also be
discussed as appropriate for the development climate.
CIVIC SPACE/STREET/BLOCK STANDARDS
Most zoning codes do not include street types, even though the design of the
street directly affects the character of an area. The Consultant will work with city
staff to define street types for the station areas to ensure that the streets are not
developed or redeveloped outside the context of the districts. For each street
type, the code will establish a range of acceptable standards for sidewalks, travel
lane widths, parking, curb geometry, planting and furnishing zones, and street
trees. Additionally, with the anticipated redevelopment of larger parcels, block
sizes and street/subdivision configurations will be defined for those types of
parcels, to ensure walkability and a high level of street connectivity. Standards
will be set for types of open spaces, such as plazas, greens, and small parks, and
how these spaces are required or encouraged on private lots will be defined.
Uses will also be addressed within the new code, aligning use definitions and
nomenclature with the existing code, but creating a series of broader use categories to
result in a much simplified use table. Parking will be addressed to introduce
appropriate rates for station areas, typically using a series of credits to reach realistic
requirements. Landscape and signage will also be modified to reflect the unique
characteristics of these station districts.
TASK 3B: INTEGRATION OF THE FORM-BASED CODE
The Consultant will assist St. Louis Park staff with the task of integrating the
form-based overlay into the city's existing code framework. Existing numbering
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Title: SWLRT Station Area Form-Based Code Grant Contract Page 5
systems and outline organization will be utilized to fold the regulations into the
existing structure. However, because form-based codes are heavily illustrated, the
method of integrating those illustrations with ease and efficiency will need to be
coordinated with staff. Procedures will be defined as discussed in the Overview section
above, given the structure and day-to-day processes the city is currently using along
with any existing state and local legal constraints. Duncan Associates will provide any
necessary legal review requested.
Phase 4. Refining the Form-Based Code
TASK 4A: PRESENTATION OF FIRST DRAFT
On the fourth site visit, the draft code will be presented to staff and the working group.
The city will be responsible for collecting comments, suggestions, and questions from
these meetings and consolidating them into a series of clear action items for revision
or response by the Consultant. One meeting is included for this task; however,
additional meetings without the Consultant being present may be required to ensure
consensus is reached on the needed revisions to the initial draft. The Consultant can
also be available for conference calls or web-based meetings with the working group
and staff during this period.
TASK 4B: MEETINGS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
The Consultant will also present the draft code at up to two meetings with key
stakeholders, such as residents, property owners, or potential developers, at a time
determined appropriate by staff and the working group. These meetings can be
conducted as roundtable discussions to accommodate multiple people. City staff will
attend the meetings to assist the Consultant in determining how to address any
concerns brought to light.
TASK 4C: PRESENTATION OF SECOND DRAFT
The presentation of the second draft of the code will follow the same process as the
presentation of the first draft. Changes to the document will be highlighted and
color-coded for ease of review. Once again, the city will be responsible for collecting
comments, suggestions, and questions from these meetings and consolidating them
into a series of clear action items for revision or response by the Consultant. Note that
the Public Open House is also scheduled during this time period, to be determined
when the draft is appropriate for public presentation, and an additional working group
meeting could be held in conjunction with the open house visit.
Phase 5. Approval Process
TASK 5A: PUBLIC HEARING PRESENTATIONS, ADDITIONAL
REVISIONS, AND FINAL DOCUMENT
During the final set of site visits, the Consultant will assist staff in presenting the draft
of the code at public hearings of the Plan Commission and City Council. In advance of
these meeting, The Consultant will provide the city with a digital version of the draft to
be posted online for public review. The city will be responsible for collecting
comments, suggestions, and questions from these meeting and consolidating them
into a series of clear action items for revision or response. If necessary, it is often
helpful to meet with the Plan Commission and Council for a more informal meeting
prior to the public adoption process. This can be accomplished through a series of
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meetings during one visit to avoid a quorum of any body. Finally, the Consultant will
then complete one final set of revisions, and deliver the final document.
TASK 5B: STAFF TRAINING
Upon adoption of the code, the Consultant will develop a presentation and will meet
with staff for a training session. The training typically focuses on scenarios, including
many brought up during the process of developing the code. Up to six scenarios will be
devised to illustrate how existing structures and activities can work within the code,
how typical auto-oriented developments would fair by the code, how a variety of
development types would meet the code requirements. If any development proposals
are currently being considered for the station area, those will be reviewed.
Additionally, for up to a year, the Consultant will assist staff in the review of any
development proposals. The review will include reviewing the full proposal, a call with
staff, and a short written memo in response to the proposal.
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Title: SWLRT Station Area Form-Based Code Grant Contract Page 7