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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1980/02/25 - ADMIN - Minutes - City Council - Regulari' i I; i i 1. Call to Order MINUTES CITY GOUNCIL r1EETING ST. LOUIS PARK, MINN�SOTA February 25, 1980 A regular meeting of the City.Council was called to order by Mayor Phyllis McQuaid at 7:30 p.m. 2. Presentations None. 3. Roll Call The following Councilmen were present at roll call: Ronald Backes Jerrold Martin Martha E1sCrom John Ralles Lyle Hanks Phyllis McQuaid Also present were the City tianager, City Attorney, Director of Planning, Director of Public Works and City Assessor. 4. Approval It was moved by Councilman Ralles, seconded by of Hinutes Councilman riartin, to approve the minutes of the City Council meetings held January 2�3 and February 4(two), 1980, as presented. The motion passed 6-0. 5. Approval of Agenda It was moved by Councilman Martin, seconded by Councilman Elstrom, to approve the consent agenda for February 25, 1930, as presented. The motion passed 6-0. ' It was moved by Councilman �lstrom, seconded by Councilman Ralles, to approve the agenda for February 25, 1980, with the following addition: Item llh, Council Policy Change. The motion passed 6-0. City Council minutes, February 25, 1980 PUBLIC HEARINGS 6a. Park Pizzeria Application of Park Pizzeria for on-sale Wine License intoxicating wine license, as described in Ir'otice of Hearing published February 13 & 20, 1980. There being no one present wishing to speak, the Mayor declared the hearing closed. It was moved by Councilman Hanks, seconded by Councilman Elstrom, to deny the request. Councilman 2iartin was opposed to the motion. He noted the applicant currently has a beer license and he saw no reason to deny a wine license. Councilman Ralles said wine compliments pizza, hamburger and most other foods, and at some time the City must consider not issuing further licenses. He believed the firm's clientele of a younger age, and he also was concerned with setting a precedent. Councilman Hanks explained that a beer license is of the nonintoxicating category. fie was opposed to intoxicating liquor licenses of any type on Excelsior Boulevard which do not replace existing licenses. Mayor McQuaid concurred; however, she believed due to the fact that the applicant did have a beer license and had an outstanding record of main- taining a good business, the application should be favored. It was moved by Councilman Ralles, seconded by Councilman Hanks, to call the question. The motion passed 6-0. The motion failed 3-3 (Councilmen Elstrom, Hanks and Ralles in favor). Councilman Martin suggested the possibility of granting the request and not reissuing the license for the Foo Chu property. He also stated that Bunny's had inadequate parking and any future request to transfer the license might not be perniitted. He could not feature persons lounging at the pizza restaurant, drinking wine and becoming intoxicated. It was moved by Councilman Martin, seconded by Councilman Backes, to approve the request. Councilman Backes noted that the Council had recently granted a special permit application permitting a Class I restaurant on the site which was also consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. Philip 0'Brien, 3934 Ottawa Avenue, reiterated past concerns related to condiCions on Excelsior Boulevard, liquor licenses, parking problems, etc., and favored elimination of liquor licenses by attrition. The motion failed 3-3 (Councilmen Backes, Martin and Mayor McQuaid in favor) . -S 3- �)'�Tr_ . . . � � _ � � . . - City Council minutes, February 25, 1980 It was noved by Councilman Elstrom, seconded by Councilman Martin, to reopen the hearing and continue it to April 21, 1980, at which time a full Council would be present. The motion passed 6-0. 6b. Bverly's Off-Sale Application of Byerly's for off-sale Liquor License nonintoxicating liquor license, as described in Notice of Hearing published February 13, 1980. There being no one present wishing to speak, the Mayor declared the hearing closed. � It was moved by Councilman Elstrom, seconded by Councilman Backes, to approve the request. Councilman Martin did not believe it appropriate to grant a beer license for the grocery store, in that a liquor store Would exist on adjacent property. The motion passed 5-0-1 (Councilman Ralles abstained). 6c. Variance; 2201 Application of Roconn/Curtis Homes for variance Florida Avenue in front yard requirement at 2201 Fl�rida Avenue, as described in Notice of Hearing published February 13, 1980. Robert Ryan, 2201 Florida Avenue, representin� Curtis Homes (lessee), asked for variance approval to permit a free-s[andfng sign within the setback. He referred to the definition of a sign, "in view of the general public," and stressed its consideration. He explained the alternaCives suggested by City staff: 1) a wall or painted sign on the south side or property line of the buildinR--he said a south property line did not exist in that the wall is the property line; the property owner did not own the property south of the building and therefore future construction could block the sign; 2) a sign fn the parking lot--he said the hazards would outwei�h granting of the variance, plus it would eliminate parking spaces, create a traffic hazard and interfere with snow removal; 3) locating the sign very close to the front of the building (west wall)--he said this alternative would require the sign to be placed practically upon the sidevalk. Mr. Ryan distributed pf�otographs and explained the proposal would be to place the sign along the cul-de-sac. six feet from the property line in an existing gravel area. Councilmen Ralles and Martin discussed possible development to the south, and Councilman Martin suggested any 4tructure would be required to comP1Y with setback requirements; therefore would not obstruct a wall sign. �e also noted the applicant's business is the sole building at the end of the cul-de-sac and not difficult to locate; theref.ore� a hardship did noC exist. -54- City Council minutes, February 25, 1980 There being no one further wishins to speak, the Mayor declared the hearing closed. It was moved by Councilman Martin, seconded by Councilman Elstrom, to deny the variance. The motion passed 6-0. 6d. Cedar Lake Road Improvement Project 80-11, Cedar Lake Road Street Lighting . street lighting, as described in Notice of �learing published February 13, 1980 (see Item lOh, minutes ' of March 3, 1980). Councilman Backes left the chambers. There being no one present wishing to speak, the Mayor declared the hearing closed. . It was moved hy Councilman Elstrom, seconded by Councilman Hanks, to order the improvement and authorize final specifications and advertisement for bids. Responding to a question from Councilman Hanks, the City Assessor explained the project would be assessed on the basis of a 30-percent direct benefit (approximately $12,600) and a 70-percent indirect benefit (approximately $29,400). He continued that because the project provided for the installation of 15 light standards, a property receiving a direct benefit would be assessed $540. All properties within the project area, including those receiving a direct benefit, caould be assessed an indirect benefit computed on a front-foot basis. He said the estimated costs had not been calculated for individual units in Cedar Trails, but based on recent street assess- ments on Cedar Lake Road, assessments could be as high as $400 per unit for South Cedar Trails and $600 for Cedar Trails West. He stated notices of the public hearing had been sent to all fee owners of the properties, the two association presidents and to each unit owner. Councilman Backes returned to the chambers. The motion passed 6-0. 6e. Shelard Park Application of Shelard Development Companies, Inc., Zoning Change to change zoning from Residential/ Business to General Business at 9980 Wayzata Boulevard, as described in Notice of Hearing published February 13, 1980. Councilman Backes left the chambers. Ann Perry, planner for the City of Minnetonka, requested that a buffer be placed along the western boundary of the development; that the Minnetonka Planning Department have an opportunity to review and comment upon the hotel plan or any other development affecting its resicients; that Minnetonka be notified of future d�velopment or revisions to tl�e Shelard Park concept plan adjacent to its boundaries. -55- City Council minutes, February 25, 1980 Mayor McQuaid stated t�a discussetheaproposaledandethreehpersona attended. informational meeting Councilman Martin said he would not be oppased to notifying the City of Minnetonka of plans, and its staff could notify Minneionka residents. Thomas Zillnin30CommissionRreviewefeHeeconcurredpwithnMspePe1�ynspresented during Plan g requests. Sheldon Wert, owner of Shelard Companies, er.plained that the City of Minnetonka had been involved and had opportunity to provide recommendation at the time the original plan for the area was reviewed and approved. He said the location of Ford Parkway had been adjusted �ue to concerns of Minnetonka. He explained alChough the storm sewer installed at Shelard's expense carries large quantities of Minnetonka water, Minnetonka has not paid its share of the construction cost; however, Che City of Plymouth paid its share of the cost. He concluded by stating it would be appropriate to discuss berming, etc., during special permit review and not during a rezoning public hearing. There being no one further wishing to speak, the Mayor declared the hearing closed. In response to Council�an Martin, Mr. Wert explained the approved plan for the site would �ave been a 12-story office building; the current proposal consisted of a six-story hotel. Councilman Martin suggested the proposal would have less of an impact on the residential properties in Minnetonka. He also believed that berming with shrubbery would not screen six stories, nor would it have screened the 12-story office building. It was moved by Councilman Martin, seconded by Councilman Ralles, to waive first reading of the ordinance changing the zoning and set second reading for March 3, 1980. Councilman Hanks agreed with Mr. Wert that the appropriate time to address berming, etc., would be during special permit review. Mayor McQuaid helieved it the obligation of the St. Louis Park Planning Department to advise the City of Minnetonka as requested,enabling it to � notify its residents of any new plans. She also suggested the applicant s notification of the neighborhood indicated good faith. The motion paesed 5-0 (Councilman Backes was not present). 6f. 1978 Community 1978 Community Development Block Grant funda. Development Program It was moved by Councilman Elstrom, seconded by Councilman Martin, to continue the hearing to March 3, 1980. The motion passed 5-0 (Councilman Backes wae not present). -56- r 7a. Bingo• City Council minutes, February 25, 1980 PETITIONS, RCQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS A NoCice of Inrent to Conducr Bingo, Holy Family Men's Club, was ordered filed by consent. 7b. Bingo A Notice of Intent to ConducC Bingo, Minnesota Brass, Drum and Bugle Corps, was ordered filed by consent. R�SOLUTIONS AND ORDINANCES �ia. Council Committees; Second reading of Ordinance Code amendment Ordinance No. 1459 related to Council committees. It was moved by Councilman Martin, seconded by Councilman Ralles, to waive reading and adopt Ordinance No. 1459, entitled "An ordinance related to legislative committees, amending the St. Louis Park Ordinance Code by repealing Section 2-119," amended to read ". .. when directed by the Council." The motion passed 5-0 (Councilman Backes was not present). 8b. 1980 Community Development Program; Resolution No. 6500 1980 Community Development Program (M. & C. No. 80-13). It was moved by Councilman Martin, seconded by Councilman Elstrom, to waive reading and adopt Resolution No. 6500, entitled "A resolution authorizing submission of Community Development Program to Hennepin County in accord with Housing and Community Development Act of 1974." Councilman Hanks expressed concern that the City could set a precedent related to the designation of $85,000 for the Elmwood alley paving. Councilman Backes returned to the chambers. The motion passed 6-0. Bc. Jelmark IR Bonds; Resolution amending Resolution �10. 6484 Resolution Ho. u499 authorizing issulnce and sale of Delmark Company industrial development revenue bonds. It was moved by Councilman Piartin, seconded by Councilman Elstrom, to waive readinR and adopt Resolution t�o. 6499, entitled "A resolution making certain findings and determinations perCaining to the City oF St. louis Park, tlinnesota, industrial development revenue bonds (The Delmark Compuny, Inc., project), Series 19�Q; and amending Section S of Resolution �do. 6484 adopted February 4, 1980, autl�orizing said revenue bonds, in order. to chan�e the maturity date of said revenue bonds." The motion passed 6-0. -57 - 0 City Council minutes, February 25, 1980 Sd. CapiCal Improvement 1900-1984 Capital Improvement Program. Program; Resolution No. 6501 Resolution No. 6501, entitled "Resolution approving Capital Improvement Program - 1980 to 1984," was adopted by consent. 8e. Housing Mortgage Housing mortgage finance program. Program• ResoluCion No. 6502 It was moved by Councilman Hanks, seconded by Councilman Martin, to rescind Resolution No. 6489, adopted February 4, 19�0; and to waive reading and adopt Resolution No. 6502, entitled "Resolution giving preliminary approval to a proposed mortgage finance program." The motion passed 6-0. 9a. Housin Authority 9b. Planning Coimnission 9c. Human Rights Commission 9d. Health Advisory Committee REPORTS OF OFFICERS, BOARDS AND COt¢tITTEES The minutes of the Housing and Redevelopment Authority meeting held February 7, Z980, were ordered filed by consent. The minutes of tne Planning Cortrmission meeting held February 6, 1980, were ordered filed by consent. The minutes of the Human Rights Commission meeting held January 16, 1980, were ordered Eiled by consent. The minutes of the Health Advisory Committee meeting held January 23, 1980, were ordered filed by consent. 9e. Community Relations The minvtes of the Community Relations Commission Coaunission meeting held February 14, 1980, were ordered filed by consent. 9f. Board of Zoning Appeals 9g. Library Lane Paving The minutes of the Board of Zoning Appeals meeting held January 24, 1980, were ordered filed by consent. Preliminary engineering report, Project 80-05, west Library Lane area paving. The Council set public hearing on the project for March 24, 1980, by consent. -58- City Council minutes, February 25, 1980 9h. IJest 35� Street/ Yosemite SCreet Lighting_ 9i. West 36 Street Lighting Preliminary engineering report, Project 80-16, West 35� Street/Yosemite Avenue street lighting. The Council set public hearing on the project for March 24, 1980, by consent. Preliminary engineering report, Project 80-17, West.36 Street lighting. The Council set public hearing on the project for March 24, 1980, by consent. 9j. Library Lane Preliminary engineering report on trail Trail connection from Oak Park Villa�e to Library Lane, Project 80-25. It was moved by Councilman Elstrom, seconded by Councilman Ralles, to authorize preparation of plans and specifications and advertisement for b ids . Councilman Ralles asked if it would be necessary to excavate the existing five-foot-wide sidewalk to increase the width to the proposed eight feet. He also asked what criteria were used to determine the sidewalk width of eight feet. The Director of Public Works explained three feet would be added to the existing sidewalk to conform with the existing eight-foot trail linking the school and library. He continued that the state and many municipalities have attempted to set standards for trail construction; therefore, to allow pedestrians and bicycles on the same paved area, and to facilitate maintenance, a width of eight feet was recommended. Responding to Councilman Martin, he said retaining the existing five-foot walk and constructing a five-foot trail would cost approximately $5,500 compared with S7,932 for the eight-foot project. Responding to a question from Mayor McQuaid, the City Ptanager stated the trail would not be constructed if Community Development funds were not available; however, the matter would be returned to the Council for its decision. Responding to a question from Councilman Elstrom, he stated if tfie trail were to be maintained in the winter, it would be the City's responsibility; the decision would be a matter of Council policy. The motion passed 4-2 (Councilmen Ralles and Martin opposed). 9k. Tax-Forfeit Land; Determination of no public purpose for tax-forfeit Resolution No. 6503 property at West 26 Street near Yosemite Avenue. It was moved by Councilman Backes, seconded by Councilman Elstrom, to waive reading and adopt Resolution No. 6503, entitled "Resolution approving designation of nonconservation land shown on Classification List "645-C" by Board of County Commissioners of Hennepin County." The motion passed 6-0. -59- City Council minutes, February 25, 1980 9L. Parls and The minutes of the Parks and Recreation Recreation Commission Coamiission meeting held Pebruary 13, 1980, were filed by consent. 9m. January Financial Report 9n. Vir�inia Circle Paving Project The monthly financial report, January 1980, was filed by consent. Preliminary engineering report, Project 80-08, North and South Virginia Circle. The Council set public hearing on the project for March 24, 1980, by consent. 90. F1� Avenue Sewer Preliminary engineering report, Project 79-50, Flag Avenue sewer. The Council set public hearing on the project for March 24, 1980, by consent. 9p. Traffic Study 222; Traffic Study No. 222; Georgia and Hampshire Resolution No. 6504 Avenues from Minnetonka Boulevard to West 31 Street (Lenox Community Center area). Ervin Westby, 3052 Hampshire Avenue, was opposed to the one-hour parking limit in front of his property due to the inconvenience it would cause. Responding to Mayor McQuaid, he stated that he did not attend the neigh- borhood meeting on the matter. Mayor McQuaid noted that 15 persons attended the neighborhood meeting and concurred with the plan submitted for Council approval. Councilman Backes suggested a compromise would be to have no-parking restrictions on Hampshire Avenue south of the fence at the Lenox Center. Councilman Hanks said it would be appropriate to consult the property owners adjacent to rir. Westby prior [o making a decision which might be unfair and inconsistent to persons attending the neighborhood meeting. It was moved by Councilman Hanks, seconded by Councilman Elstrom, to waive reading and adopt Resolution No. 65d4, entitled "Resolution authorizing pZacement of traffic control signs along Georgia and Hamnshire Avenues," amended by deleting reference to one-hour limitationR, pending discussion with adjacent property owners, to be reconsidered on Harch 3, 1980. Councilmen Martin said he would oppose the motion, in that persons could park on the east aide of Hampshire Avenue which had no restrictions on parking. The motion paseed 5-1 (Councilman Martin oppoaed). -60- City Council minutes, February 25, 1980 9q. Shelard Companies; Resolution No. 6505 10a. Shelard Development Companies, Inc., application for special permit to include Class III (cafeteria) restaurant in 8-story office building at Lot 2, Block 8, Shelard Park. It was moved by Councilman Ralles, seconded by Councilman Elstrom, to waive readin� and adopt Resolution No. 6505, entitled "A resolution amending Resolutions 6300, 627Q, 6229, 6199, granting permit under Section 14-I95(1)(3) of the St. Louis Park Ordinance Code related to zoning to permit a commercial development unit and residential development unit for property located in the B-2 and R-B Di'stricts in Shelard Park " amending Condition No. 42 to read• ". ., on Block 8, Shelard Park." � The motion passed 5-0-1 (Councilman Backes abstained). UNFINISHED BUSINESS Appointments Appointments to boards and commissions. Councilman Ralles moved to appoint Bonita Sindelir to the Elmwood position on the Community Relations Commission. The motion passed 6-0. Councilman Iianks moved to appoint Mary Anne Theisen to an at-large position on the Community Relations Commission. The motion passed 6-0. Councilman Martin moved to appoint Gregory Mack and Thomas Schultz to the Parks and Recreation Commission. Councilman Martin discussed appointments based upon telephone interviews. The motion passed 6-0. Councilman Hanks moved to appoint Craig Abrahamson and Edward Resler to the Eluman Rights Commission. The motion passed 6-0. lOb. Sidewalk Right-of-Way; Purchase of right-of-way for Excelsior Boulevard Resolutions 6506 b 6507 sidewalk (M. � C. No. 80-12). It was moved by Councilman Backes, seconded by Councilman Elstrom, to waive reading and adopt Resolutions 6506 and 6507, both entitled "Resolution authorizing purchase of property for street right of way." The motion passed 6-0. � -61- City Council minuCes, February 25, 1980 lOc. Second Floor Second floor remodeling. Remodelling It was moved by Councilman Hanke, seconded by Councilman Elstrom, to reject the recommendation. Councilman Elstrom believed alternative desi�ns should be reviewed prior to committing $100,000 to the project. In response to a question from Councilman Martin, the City Manager explained that a total of Cen months had been spent reviewing the project, and an architect had been involved for approximately six months. iie said in December 1979, drawings of the proposed rearrangement had been presented to the Council as well as a description of the exiating problems. Since that time plans had been developed to reduce the project cost. Councilman Backes explained the purpose of the motion was to not advertise for bids until the Council had been presented design plans, preliminary cost estimates including alternatives for a scaled-down project, etc., for further Council review. Councilman Hanks believed the projected 510�,�00 for the remodeling plus the $73,000 to move offices to the Recreation Center exceedingly hi�h. tie noted the cost to construct the new garap,e addition was $3�0,000. The motion was withdrawn. Councilman 1•tartin believed that additional office space was needed on the second floor. Councilman Backes did not believe staff was prepared to ma'�e a final recommendation for approval. He said when the Council is requested to approve a project, it must have the total plan and the total cost and not be presented change orders upon construction. He asked staff to define several alternatives, including preliminary cost estimates, and the Council would determine the alternative upon which to advertise for bids. It was moved by Council�an Backes, seconded by Councilman Elstrom, to authorize staff to continue the prelimin�lry plan phase including more complete details plus various alternative �lans and preliminary cost estimates; the phase should include the costs and less costly alterna- tives for the proposed relocation of City Hall offices to the Recreation Center. The motfon passed 6-0. -62_ � lOd. Pensions City Council minutes, February 25, 1980 Formation of committee to study pension issues (authorized January 14, 1980). Following discussion, it was moved by Councilman Hanks, seconded by Councilman Elstrom, that Che co�ittee shall consist of nine voting members includinR the Mayor, serving as chair; one Council member and an alternate; one member and an alternate appointed by the Police Pension Board; one member and an alternate appointed by the Fire Pension Board; five citizen members. Candidates for the five citizen members shall be recommended by the City Council and the Police and Fire Pension Boards. The idayor, Council representative and pension board representatives will select five names to be transmitted to the Council for final approval. Alternates may attend all meeting3 bat shall vote only in the event the regular member is absent. The motion passed 6-0. It was moved by Councilman Ralles, seconded by Councilman Martin, to appoinC Council�an Hanks Council representative on the committee, Councilman Backes Council alternate. The motion passed 4-2 (Councilmen Backes and Hanks opposed). Mayor McQuaid asked that Council members submit na�es of potential citizen representatives as soon as possible; she also asked the City Manager to contact the pension boards and request that they submit names. i� NEW BUSINESS lla. Park Tavern Ben Weber dba Park Tavern liquor license Liquor License change in corporate structure to Phillip's Investment Company. The Council approved the change in corporate structure by consent. llb. Alabama Avenue Parking lot - 3974 Alabama Avenue. Parking Lot The Council authorized execution of quit claim deeds (two) by consent. llc. Louisiana Houses; Acquisition of 3032 and 3048 Louisiana Avenue Resolution t�os. (M. � C. tdo. 80-14). 650a and 6509 It was moved by Councilman Elstrom, seconded by Councilman Ralles, to waive reading and adopt Resolution Nos. 6508 and 6509, both entitled "Resolution authorizing purchase of property for street right of way." Councilman Martin asked if the Council had not agreed in the past that it would study the fut�.�re of Louisiana Avenue prior to acquiring additional houses. -63- 0 City Council minutes, February 25, 1980 The City Manager explained that included in the Council's paet motion was to vigorously continue to acquire houses. The motion passed 6-0. lld. Bid Tabulation lle. , 7-Eleven Stores Bid tabulation - stump cutter. By consent, the Council designated Vetmeer Stump Company Zowest responsible bidder and authorized execution of contract at $12,520. Application of 7-Eleven Stores for special permit. By consent, the Council accepted withdrawal of the application at the request of the applicant. llf. Subdivision Ordinance Amendment to Subdivision Ordinance, Sections 14-303 and 14-309. The City Manager briefly summarized the staff report on the proposed amendment ��hich would permit subdivision develop- ment in stages. It was moved by Councflman Hanks, seconded by Councilman Elstrom, to waive first reading of the ordinance and set second reading for itarch 3, 1980. The motion passed 6-0. llg. Fire Chief Personnel appointment - Fire Chief. The City Council approved the appointment of John Kersey as fire chief by consent. It was moved by Councilman Hanks, seconded by Councilman Backes, that a letter be sent to Chief Kersey congratulating him on behalf of the City Council. The motion passed 6-0. llh. Council Policy Council policy related to board and commission appointments (requested by Councilman riartin). Counr_ilman Martin moved that in the interest of giving all citizens an opportunity to serve on commissions and not inconveniencing them with several interviews, the interview procedure shall be as follows: 1)Inter.views witl be conducted during the fourth quarter of each year; 2} app2icants ►oill be placed on a standing list in the order of preference; 3) new applications will be held for the next year if received after interviews have been conductecl; 4) the list is good for one year; 5) the appointments will be made from one of the top three on the list; 6) interviews will be held in the middle of the year only when less than three names are on any list; 7) the City shall make a strong effort in recruiting each year. -F��- City Council minutes, February 25, 1980 Councilman Hanks explained that prior to the current practice of conducting interviews with three Council representatives, the Mayor had conducted all interviews and made all appointments, and the process became somewhat political. He believed it would be difficult to rate candidates in the various categories, although he understood Councilman Martin's concern, but he did not believe the Council had ever been political with appointments. He said it probably would be appropriate to contact candidates after one year and request thaC they reapply if still interested in appointment. He offered to attend interview sesaions as an alternate for any Councilmembers unable to attend. Mayor McQuaid explained that during interviews for the Parks and Recreation Commission vacancies, the possibility of ranking persons interviewed for automatic appointment to the next commission vacancies had been discussed. Councilman Elstrom explained the procedure used for appointment tv Hennepin County boards. Councilman Martin withdrew his motion. It was moved by Councilman riartin, seconded by Councilman Hanks, that the interviewing group for any commission may decide to rate candidates beyond the number required in order that future appointments may be made without further interviewing the same candidates, subject to concurrence of the interview group for the particular board or commission having a vacancy. The motion passed 6-0. MISCELLANEOUS 12a. Damage By consent, the Council authorized the Claims following claims filed with the City Clerk for proper action by the City Manager and City Attorney: Robert Fox, 3944 Colorado Avenue; Dallas Skaug, 3255 Yosemite Avenue; Jerrold Swainman/Clayton Timian, 3334 Decatur Lane. 12b. Communications Testimony - House Transportation Committee from Mayor related to H.F. 1699 (Olsen Bill on Highway 12). Mayor McQuaid read a letter from Representative Olsen containing three questions to be answered as to Council policy relative to Nighway 12. She read her responses for Council approval: 1) She would either submit Resolution No. 6491 adopted on February 4, 1980, or summarize it; 2) The St. Louis Park City Council supports the exploration of mass transit alternativea and has adopted four resolutions to that effect; 3) The Council position on HOV cannot be addressed, ae the Council has no consenaus nor commitment on the matter; Reaponding to Councilman ilanke, she stated the Bill opposes the }IOV. -65- City Council minutes, February 25, 1980 Councilman Nanks noted the Council asks that mass tranait alternativea in the southwest corridor be explored, not necessarily that the Council would approve a specific alternative. Councilman Backes suggesCed inasmuch as three comr.�unities disagree as to the desi�n for the roadway, the method of handling the approval process should be addressed. Leonard Thiel, former Mayor, explained the southwest corridor lies anywhere between Highways 55 and 62, and if nothing is done to alleviate traffic on Highway 12, rlinnetonka Boulevard and Cedar Lake Road will become heavily travelled. Councilman Ralles stated the City may wish to delay statements on the matter until the final proposals of MnDOT have been reviewed. Mayor McQuaid said if St. Louis Park is silent upon the isaue, it could be misinterpreted. Councilman Martin stated that silence on the Olsen Bill was important, in that it was not a proposal of MnDOT. He believed the Council was not in a position to become involved or support the Bill, and any statemente could be miaconatrued. He said the Council, as a body, had made no decision. Mayar ticQuaid did not believe the three questions related to approval of the Bill and said she would respond in the ne�ative if asked if the Council supported or did not support it. Councilman Backes said that in addition to paraphrasing Resolution No. 6491, copies should be distributed. Councilman Hanks also requested the Mayor state that the St. Louis Park Council had taken no position on HOV nor upon the Olsen Bill. Mayor McQuaid agreed to so state. It was moved by Councilman Backes, seconded by Councilman Elstrom, to authorize Mayor McQusid to address the Legislative Committee as discusaed. The motion passed 5-1 (Councilman Martin opposed). Councilman Hanks requested that the Legislative Committee be advised that the vote on addresaing the Committee was not unanimous. 12c. Communications None. from City ManaRer CLAII�iS, APPROPRIATIONS AND CONTRACT PAYMENTS 13a. Verified On motion of Councilman Backea seconded by Claims Councilman Elstrom, the liet of verified �l8iro� prepared by the Director of Finance and directed to the City Council dated February 25, 1980, in the total amounts $405,629.27 for vendors and $7,211.39 for payroll� Were approved and the City Manager, City Clerk and City Treasurer were authorized to iasue checks in the same amounts by a vote of 6-0. -b6- _�I City Council minutes, rebruary 25, 1980 13b. Contract Payments 14. Ad� urnment Att , ^ � � �� � � Mrs. Flanagan Recording Secretary None. On motion of Councilman Backes, seconded by Councilman Ra11es, the meeting was adjourned at 10:45 p.m. by a vote of 6-0. e � Phy s McQuaid Mayor -67-