HomeMy WebLinkAbout2000/02/07 - ADMIN - Minutes - City Council - Regular CITY OF OFFICIAL MINUTES
ST. LOUIS CITY COUNCIL MEETING
PARK ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
February 7, 2000
1. Call to Order
Mayor Jacobs called the meeting to order at 7 30 p m
2. Presentations - None
3. Roll Call
The following Councilmembers were present at roll call Jim Brimeyer, Ron Latz, Chris Nelson,
Sue Sanger, Sue Santa, Robert Young, and Mayor Jeff Jacobs
Also present were the City Manager (Mr Meyer), City Attorney (Mr Scott), Community
Development Director (Mr Harmening), Public Works Coordinator (Mr Merkley), Engineering
Superintendent (Mr Moore), Planning Manager (Ms Jeremiah), Planning Coordinator (Ms
Erickson), and Recording Secretary (Ms Olson)
4. Approval of Minutes
The minutes were approved with the following corrections
Page 8, Item 3, Roll Call, note that it was Councilmember Santa who in attendance of the meeting
and not Councilmember Sanger
Page 15, Item 6b, Paragraph 4, change "Jeff Bale" to "Jeff Bail!"
Page 17, Item 8b, Paragraph 8, it was Councilmember Santa who made the comment
Page 16, Item 8a, Paragraph 2, changed to "the zoning ordinance that would place three liquor
establishments within the 1 1/2 block area"
5. Approval of Agendas
a. Consent Agenda.
It was moved by Councilmember Nelson, seconded by Councilmember Santa, to approve the
consent agenda with the removal of Item 8j and with the correction to Item 13, actual amount for
Killmer Electric should be $3,111 83 The motion passed 7-0
Councilmember Latz noted that in Item 9g, Police Civil Service Commission Minutes of
September 20, 1999, it was identified that Brian Leary was absent, yet it was recorded that he
seconded the motion later in the meeting
b. Agenda - '
It was moved by Councilmember Nelson, seconded by Councilmember Sanger, to approve the
agenda with the addition of Item 8j The motion passed 7-0
Council Meeting Minutes -2- February 7, 2000
c. Resolutions and Ordinances
By consent, Council waived reading of resolutions and ordinances
6. Public Hearings
6a. First Reading of the Ordinance Adopting a Stormwater Utility
Scott Merkley, Public Works Coordinator made a presentation that provided information relating
to Stormwater Utilities He outlined the following two options available to fund the stormwater
management program
Adopt the Stormwater Utility and discontinue the use of the Sanitary Sewer Utility and General
Fund to fund storm water activities Reduce the Sanitary Sewer Utility and General Fund
contributions accordingly
Remain status quo and not approve the Stormwater Utility Continue use of the Sanitary Sewer
Utility and General Fund Request an annual increase from these funds to provide the additional
stormwater services required
Sandy Ackerberg, 4201 Excelsior Boulevard, was concerned that the method of charging the fee
to the owners of property was equitable for residential and commercial property He stated that it
was difficult to determine what was stormwater run off verses run-off that was absorbed by the
property itself and noted that public streets contribute a huge amount of water to the run off He
also was concerned if the funds were going to be used for stormwater maintenance or capital
improvements and what was the City going to do with the $200,000 savings from the Sanitary
Sewer Utility
Mayor Jacobs noted the fact that not only was the stormwater utility system getting old, there was
some flooding in the City despite efforts to keep it from happening and this issue needed to be
addressed in a pro-active way
Mr Merkley stated that the public roadways were exempt because they are used by everybody in
the community and charging the City would be taking it out of the general fund and defeating the
purpose to charge the users that generate the stormwater He indicated that the funds would be
used exclusively for storm water purposes and the rates would be reviewed annually by the City
Council He stated that the $200,000 savings annually would provide for a 4 49 percent rate
decrease for the sanitary sewer charges in the future
Trevor Smith, 6712 W 26th Street, stated that he had expenenced flooding in the past and
believed that it was important for the community to adopt an ordinance to establish a Stormwater
Utility
Ron Wydella, 6708 W 26th Street, stated that he had also experienced flooding in the past and
believed that it was important for the community to establish a Stormwater Utility
Nancy Gibson, 2712 Glenhurst Avenue, Golden Valley, Chair of Environmental Trust Fund stated
that she encouraged the City to talk about prevention of these sort of problems and take a better
look at "Mother Nature" and stop tearing down trees and replacing them with "designer ponds"
Council Meeting Minutes -3- February 7, 2000
She was concerned about the use of chemicals that are extremely dangerous to children and
causing a lot of water quality problems She asked what the education programs were to
discourage the use of chemicals and encourage the use of native plants in St Louis Park
Mr Meyer, City Manager pointed out that this project was an outgrowth of the City's stormwater
management plan
Mr Moore, Engineering Superintendent, indicated that this plan was part of the City's surface
water management plan He indicated that the education program would involve public education
to the community at large and the City Council would be considering the prohibition of certain
pesticides and fertilizers in St Louis Park in the future once the surface water management plan
was adopted He also stated that the majority of the flooding areas in the communities in the area
are a result of filling low lying areas and creating parks in the past, but indicated that a program
has been laid out to address these problem areas
Mr Dubby, 2550 Webster Avenue, stated that he was concerned about creating new holding
ponds that may be beneficial for some residents, but detrimental to other residents and believed
the neighborhood affected should have the opportunity to approve these ponds
Allan Paulson, 2724 Edgewood Avenue, requested a Koppy of the budget and asked for
clarification of rates He was in favor of the stormwater utility and asked if there was a priority
list based on the identified problem areas
Debbie Reynolds, 2665 Huntington Avenue South, stated that she would like to see more
information in newsletters and Sun Sailor encouraging residents not only to plant native plants,
but discourage the use of chemicals
Nancy Gibson, 2712 Glenhurst Avenue, Golden Valley, Chair of Environmental Trust asked
Council to consider if there was a way to reward home and business owners who take better care
of their property so that they don't have run off
Mayor Jacobs closed the public hearing with the right of the Council to reopen it at a future date
Councilmember Nelson stated that the goal was to have the rate for homeowners go down to
maintenance costs after the capital improvements He asked staff if businesses that will be
required to take private stormwater retention actions generate any kind of credit
Mr Merkley stated that there was a process in the ordinance where businesses come in and
provide us information showing us the size of the ponding area and then an adjustment would be
made upon approval of the City Engineer
Councilmember Latz emphasized that Staff has had numerous meetings with residential owners in
all of the 22 flooding areas that have been identified in the City that are generating the need for
capital improvements
Councilmember Sanger believed that this approach to the fee structure was the most rational and
if the City finds out later that it is not proper, adjustments can be made She appreciated Ms
Gibson's comments on the elimination of chemicals which has been discussed in the past and
emphasized the need to get back to that subject again
Council Meeting Minutes -4- February 7, 2000
It was moved by Councilmember Nelson, seconded by Councilmember Sanger, to approve first
reading of an ordinance establishing a Stormwater Utility and set second reading for February 22,
2000 The motion passed 7-0
7. Petitions, Requests, Communications - None
8. Resolutions and Ordinances
8a. Resolution Authorizing Renewal of Gambling Premises Permit for Minnesota
Youth Boxing Club at Al's Liquor Store, Inc., 3912 Excelsior Boulevard.
Resolution No. 00-007
Mr Meyer, City Manager stated that the intent of the Council was that organizations had a year
to get into compliance with the new ordinance, so if at the end of the next year, this organization
was not within the requirement that 90% of the proceeds were going within the trade area then
they may not be in a position to renew, but they would be this year
Councilmember Nelson stated for reasons previously stated on the record he was against this
resolution, which shouldn't be taken as a particular criticism of the applicant
It was moved by Councilmember Latz, seconded by Councilmember Santa, to approve Resolution
No 00-07 authorizing renewal of gambling premises for Minnesota Youth Boxing Club at Al's
Liquor Store, Inc , 3912 Excelsior Boulevard The motion passed 6-1 Councilmember Nelson
opposed
I
8b. First Reading of the Ordinance Amending Sanitary Sewer Utility Rates
Resulting from the Ordinance Adoption of the Stormwater Utility
It was moved by Councilmember Nelson, seconded by Councilmember Young, to waive first
reading and set second reading for February 22, 2000 The motion passed 7-0
8c. Minnesota Department of Transportation Noise Wall Along the East Side of
Trunk Highway 100. Resolution No. 00-008
Mr Moore, Engineering Superintendent presented a staff report and stated that the resolution
should be revised to state that it is contingent upon receipt of funding of the Legislature
Councilmember Nelson asked for clarification of the reduction of height in front of the church and
what was the neighborhood feedback on this issue
Mr Moore indicated that the position of the MN Dot noise expert, Mr Jim Hanson was that the
distance in front of the church would be small enough that it would not have a significant on the
noise transmitting through
Councilmember Nelson stated that the residents on the west side of Highway 100 have expressed
some concern that there may be reflected off of this wall and would affect the Brookside area,
including the Brookside school and St Luke's Church He stated that Mndot has not allocated
funding and we are not authorized to do so by the legislature in anywhere but residential areas and
Brookside school and St Luke's Church are not residential area, so they don't qualify for a noise
wall He stated that it was expressed at the neighborhood meeting that we need to monitor the
Council Meeting Minutes -5- February 7, 2000
situation and have indicated that there studies will predict a decibel increase of one to two
decibels which is below the threshold of human perception
It was moved by Councilmember Nelson, seconded by Councilmember Sanger, to adopt
Resolution No 00-008 requesting Mn/DOT to construct a noise wall along the east side of Trunk
Highway 100 north of W 41st Street to a point 520 feet north The motion passed 7-0
8d. Resolution approving Park Commons East EAW, finding no need for an
Environmental Impact Statement and requiring certain mitigation.
Resolution No. 00-009
Greg Ingraham, Ingraham & Associates, presented a brief overview of the project and a gave a
presentation on the EAW(Environmental Assessment Worksheet) He indicated that areas where
the potential for significant environmental effects may have existed have been identified, and
appropriate mitigation measures have been incorporated into the project design and permits He
concluded that the Park Commons East redevelopment is expected to comply with all the City of
St Louis Park standards and review agency standards, and an Environmental Impact Statement
was not required
Mr Meyer, City Manager stated that the City received a number of residential and commercial
comments and also received a position paper from the Minikanda Vista Neighborhood
Association He stated that there may residents present at the meeting who would like to speak to
aspects of the proposed Park Commons East development, however the focus of the discussion
probably ought to be to the environmental issues and there would be opportunities for further
discussion with members of the neighborhood regarding the ments of the project Mr Meyer
indicated that the City did not advertise for a public hearing, but notice was given on cable
television, the City's web site and a flyer that was generated by the Minikanda Neighborhood
Association and delivered to all of the neighbors in the area
Councilmember Nelson made some general remarks about the position paper and stated that the a
lot of the Minikanda Vista position paper had to with the merits of the Park Commons project and
there will future meetings to do this He stated that it would be a good idea to look again at
traffic on all of Excelsior Boulevard He stated that it would not be economically feasible to put
in six story buildings in Park Commons, and four stories would be the maximum and he would
like to see three story buildings He stated that there were no present plans with the exception of
the Amoco Station to take any property on the South side of Excelsior Boulevard
John Stonhouse, 3905 Joppa Avenue South, has been a resident of St Louis Park for 34 years
He referred to the comments of the Metropolitan Council that the project will assist St Louis
Park in promoting and implementing its Livable Communities Act and comments of support by
the MPCA (Minnesota Pollution Control Agency) He stated that the City's response left out the
need for open space He stated that he was involved in the charted process and commented on
how the proposed Park Commons project has a sharply reduced Town Green and increased
density which was not consistent with what he thought was happening He urged the Council and
staff to rectify this as stated the position paper He reviewed some neighborhood goals and
ti alternatives on page 12 of the position paper, highlighting the desire for less density, wider Town
Green, further traffic study and an established architectural design guideline He indicated that
generally the people in the neighborhood support the redevelopment, but were concerned about
Council Meeting Minutes -6- February 7, 2000
the livable communities principles being applied for the area He recommended that the Council
table this item until the issues mentioned were addressed
Fran Rutherford, 4820 W 939th Street, #318, Wolfe Lake Condominiums representative, stated
that they were in favor of the redevelopment, but were concerned about the impact of increased
traffic and recommended that this issue be tabled until the results of a traffic study being done by
Wolfe Lake Condominiums and West Moreland Hills was completed
Betsy Baker, 3905 Kipling Avenue South, stated that as a member of the Minikakda Vista
Neighborhood Association she does not believe that the EAW should be approved as it is because
by approving it you are basically agreeing to the statement that there is no need for an EIS or
further study She questioned the results of the 1995 traffic study stating that the total trips on
Excelsior Boulevard were down since 1992 for a variety of reasons She believed additional
traffic analysis was needed for the whole area rather than just Park Commons East in order to
show the whole picture for growth of the Excelsior Boulevard corridor
John Herbert, 4713 West 40th Lane, stated that he did not believe that the EAW was adequate
and urged the Council not to adopt the resolution
Lynn Wik, 3965 Quentin Avenue, was present and concurred with fellow residents
Councilmember Nelson asked if the traffic consultant could address the issue of the results of the
1995 traffic study stating that the total trips on Excelsior Boulevard were down since 1992
Fred Dock, Parsons Transportation Group, explained what factors were considered for the traffic
study that was used for the EAW and stated that he was using the cumulative forecast that was
consistent with the 20 year design volumes that used on the segment between Monterey and
France
Councilmember Latz clarified that the cumulative impact was already included in the study, but
they are not broken out specifically but simply included as part of the 2 1/2 % background
increase
Councilmember Sanger asked how the traffic consultant knows that the 2 1/2 % background
increase really adequately covers the projected increased traffic from proposed traffic from Park
Nicollet
Mr Dock explained the theory that was used based on what was projected for the area on the
basis of the Comprehensive Plan which included Park Nicollet
Ms Jeremiah, Planning Manager bnefly commented on another comprehensive study that was
done as part of Park Commons West study _
Councilmember Nelson questioned how all of these traffic studies fit together with all of the
proposed projects in the future
Councilmember Sanger asked Staff if it was any particular legal reason why this resolution
couldn't be delayed
Council Meeting Minutes -7- February 7, 2000
Mr Jeremiah stated that there was no reason why the resolution couldn't be delayed, but was
concerned that the issues that are pointed out in the position paper are much broader and will be
addressed in other public processes
Councilmember Nelson stated that he would prefer to adopt the EAW and order a traffic study on
the entire Excelsior Boulevard Corridor
Councilmember Brimeyer believed that the traffic concern was legitimate because there will be an
impact and how to minimize the impact is the key question that needs to be addressed He stated
that the other issues raised about the density, Town Green, and civic use were also legitimate but
emphasized that the project had to work financially and was not in favor of a delay
Mayor Jacobs stated that he has not heard anything that the City should move forward to an
Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), but was concerned that the project be done right and the
traffic impacts on Excelsior Boulevard be investigated further
John Stonhouse, 3905 Joppa Avenue South, stated that the EAW was predicated on some issues
that the neighborhood has some concerns about, so if the Council does approve the resolution,
essentially the items in the resolution will become fact
Mayor Jacobs clarified that by approving the resolution the Council was not approving the
specifics of the proposed design
Rosemary Ziplion, 3716 Inglewood Avenue South, stated that she was in favor of density and
believed increased density was important for the whole region
John Gruber, 4608 W 39th Street, stated that he believed the issue was about what livability
meant He was concerned about the impact of going from two stories to four stories
Councilmember Sanger stated that she was in favor of another traffic study and believed it would
show more traffic than some of the current studies have She questioned what the neighborhood
would expect in the event that a traffic study showed more traffic that is currently predicted She
stated that trade-offs have already gone into the planning and more can be done, but hated to give
on something or there would be a real chance that this entire plan would not work and it would
all collapse She was favor of moving forward with an understanding that it won't be a magic
cure and that the density will somehow shrink to very little as a result
Councilmember Nelson stated that the design aspects would be outlined in the development
agreement and there will be many more opportunities for the public to discuss them
It was moved by Councilmember Nelson, seconded by Councilmember Brimeyer, to adopt
Resolution No 00-009 approving the Park Commons East EAW, finding no need for
Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and requiring certain mitigation The motion passed 7-0
It was moved by Councilmember Nelson, seconded by Councilmember Santa, to prepare a scope
of work for a traffic study for the Excelsior Boulevard corridor from the City Limit to the City
Limit on Excelsior Boulevard The motion passed 6-1 Councilmember Young was opposed
Councilmember Brimeyer recommended focusing on East of Highway 100
Council Meeting Minutes -8- February 7, 2000
Mr Harmening, Community Development Director stated that Staff would prepare a scope of
work and run it by the various stake holders to make sure staff was considering all of the issues
and concerns, get an estimated cost, and select a consultant
Claudia Jones, 3931 Joppa Avenue, questioned how the traffic consultant would be selected
Mr Harmening explained that this study would be costly even though exiting data would be used
and consultants would be interviewed to determine if the expertise was present that was needed
8e. Request by MSP Real Estate, Inc. for Preliminary Plat, Preliminary Planned
Unit Development, and rear yard setback variance for Mill City Addition, a
200-unit apartment project Case No. 99-35-PUD, 99-37-S, 99-38-VAR
7301 Walker Street. Resolution No. 00-010 and Resolution No. 00-011
Judie Erickson, Planning Coordinator presented a staff report She stated that Staff believes that
all seven of the criteria outlined in the staff report have been satisfied with respect to the
requested variance, and is recommending approval of the variance for a ten foot rear yard setback
Staff is further recommending approval of the preliminary plat and preliminary PUD subject to the
conditions in the resolution
Milo Pinkerton of MSP Real Estate, 2223 France Avenue South, introduced Peter Pfister of
Boarman Kroose Pfister Vogel & Associates
Mr Pfister highlighted some the issues related to the building function and the site plan
Councilmember Sanger stated that she was distressed to see a 75% reduction of open space being
recommended for this property She didn't believe that the property comparison referred to in the
staff report was an appropriate companson to what the target market was for this proposed
development that perhaps will be more likely to be more able bodies individuals She was
opposed to this approach and urged the architect to go back and redo the site plan and site design
to include more usable green space and perhaps go up several more stories to compensate in
density for apartments
Councilmember Santa asked if additional stories were considered for this development
Mr Pfister stated that this was a difficult site to work with because of the flood storage and
pollution and stated that this was as high as you could possibly go and still be economically
feasible
Ms Erickson addressed the issue of usable open space and concluded the trade off after the task
force study was trying to get a significant number of units on this parcel and the developer has
looked at some of the green space that is located on the South side of the lake for some kind of
park amenities that could be used by residents of this development She stated that the
Comprehensive Plan does specifically state that because of these trade offs we would consider a
reduction of usable open space for development on this site
Councilmember Latz believed that having a 30 acre park right next door was more than enough I
green space for this much needed housing development in the community
Councilmember Sanger asked if there were plans for development of the park
Council Meeting Minutes -9- February 7, 2000
Ms Erickson stated that staff is working with the Public Works Department talking about placing
some trees and landscaping in this area as part of the tree replacement policy and the final PUD
will show further developments in this regard
Councilmember Latz stated that their would be members of the public on the task force that
would start some serious planning for the Oak park Village park site He was in favor of the
development
It was moved by Councilmember Latz, seconded by Councilmember Santa, to adopt Resolution
No 00-010 approving preliminary plat and preliminary PUD for Mill City apartments, subject to
conditions in the resolution The motion passed 6-1 Councilmember Sanger was opposed
It was moved by Councilmember Latz, seconded by Councilmember Santa, to adopt Resolution
No 00-011 approving a variance for a ten foot rear yard setback per the finding in the resolution
The motion passed 6-1 Councilmember Sanger was opposed
8f. Request by General Growth Properties, Inc. to amend resolution of Planned
Unit Development for Knollwood Mall renovation, approval of 36th Street
screen wall design, and approval of Development Agreement.
Case No. 99-21-PUD 8332 State Highway 7. Resolution No. 00-012
Janet Jeremiah, Planning Manager presented a staff report and recommended approval of the
Minor PUD Amendment, general screen wall design and Development Agreement subject to the
conditions in the resolution
Councilmember Santa stated that the residents on both sides of Virginia Avenue have the same
need for a six foot high wall and recommended that the wall more gradually taper down rather
than be one sharp change and asked if that could be taken into account
Ms Jeremiah stated that this was possible and the wall could have a smoother gradual transition
where it could be stepped down so that they have the affect of screening She explained the
general concept of the proposed materials for the wall
John Wilson, 3544 Utah Avenue South, stated that he was concerned that the proposed six feet
wall would not do anything for his property since it was higher than street level He noted that at
times emergency vehicles crossed over the median to enter the residential area and this would not
be possible with a mall
Jeff Green, 3 541 Virginia Avenue South, stated that he would like the wall to continue at the
height of 6 feet for an additional block to the west of Virginia Avenue
Christopher Erickson, 3533 Virginia Avenue South, thanked General Growths for their further
work with this screen wall design He stated that he would like the wall to continue at the height
of 6 feet for an additional block to the west of Virginia Avenue
Gerry Groth, 3545 Zinran Avenue South, stated that she didn't want any type of wall in front of
her property She stated that she didn't want to see a wall and felt protected from the lights of the
shopping mall
Council Meeting Minutes -10- February 7, 2000
Mr Harmening, Community Development Director stated that a consultant would help the City
design the wall and there would be another process with the neighborhood to try to come to final
resolution on the what the height will be along various pieces of 36th Street
Donna Vasser, 3544 Virginia Avenue South, stated that she was in favor of the wall and would
like the wall to continue at the height of 6 feet for an additional block to the west of Virginia
Avenue
Councilmember Young was concerned about the wall becoming a graffiti magnet, the long term
maintenance of the wall, the removal of trees and believes it is a poor signal to send to the public
that we are a walled community
It was moved by Councilmember Santa, seconded by Councilmember Latz, to adopt a Resolution
No 00-012 to approve a Minor Amendment to the PUD resolution, approve screen wall design,
and approve Development Agreement The motion passed 6-1 Councilmember Young was
opposed
8g. Sale of City Property Located South of Jewish Community Center 4326
Cedar Lake Road. Ordinance No. 2154-00
Mr Harmening , Community Development Director presented a staff report and recommended
that a street easement not be provided for at this time in the purchase agreement
Dave Carlson, 7006 W 23rd Street, stated that he was still concerned about the destruction of a
very beautiful wooded area that is heavily used by Cedar Lake Park and trail users that serves as
beautiful buffer for the entire corridor and hoped that if this would be approve d he would hope
that the Staff and Council would establish a buffer to the proposed JCC expansion
Jeff Strate, 15021 Summerhill Drive, Eden Prairie, stated he was concerned about open space in
the metropolitan area He recommended that the property not be sold and if it was, suggested
the development be constructed vertically in order to preserve the beautiful "orphan woods"
Laurie Lundy, 1101 Cedar View Drive, was concerned about losing an essential buffer for the
Cedar Lake Trail She preferred that the City did not sell the property, but if it was she
recommended that the community work together to try and save some of the wooded area as a
buffer
Neil Trembley, 37 Oliver Avenue South, Secretary of the Cedar Lake Park Association, stated
that the Association was proactive about green space and the quality of life in the community and
metropolitan area
Lisa Genis, 4001 Highwood Road, stated that she would hate to see this valuable wooded green
space disappear
Martha Abbott Ladner, 1414 Tyrol Trail, Golden Valley, South Tyrol Hills Neighborhood, was
concerned about the destruction of the wooded area and stated that this would affect the
neighborhood She asked if there had been a land density study for the area, would the JCC be
allowed to cut down all of the trees down, would the JCC be allowed to pave the area, would the
JCC be allowed to develop a road through this area, is zoning for school and community center
Council Meeting Minutes -11- February 7, 2000
similar, would the JCC development after the use of neighborhood park, and asked how does tree
replacement policy work
Mr Harmening explained the tree replacement ordinance and stated that the City had the
authority to approve site and development plans for the project that had to meet the requirements
of the ordinance He stated that the property was guided as Civic in the Comprehensive Plan and
zoned residential He strongly encouraged that the residents present participate the process of
reviewing any development plans that the JCC may present He noted that the task force report
does recommend that part of this site be considered for sale for private uses
Jeff Baill, JCC representative, stated that the JCC desired to keep as many trees in the area
possible and accomplish goals, but does not have a formal plan yet He indicated that it was the
JCC's desire that the plans be developed with neighborhood and City input
Councilmember Sanger stated that what the JCC desires to do was very beneficial to the
community, but the concern for preserving the open space and trees was also valid She indicated
that there were additional neighborhood concerns about the increased traffic and noise from an
expansion She asked that the JCC be committed to work with the City and neighborhood to try
to preserve trees and locate the additional parking that was needed further away from the wooded
area in order to accommodate everybody's needs Mr Baill agreed to do so
Julia Taber, 1527 Calturn Lane, Golden Valley, was concerned about the promises by the JCC
being made since trees that were promised to be planted by the JCC in the past have not been
planted She desired to be notified of the upcoming opportunities for neighborhood input on the
proposed plans of the JCC
Councilmember Sanger recommended that the Cedar Lake Park Association, residents present
tonight and the townhouse associations that are west of the JCC be notified of upcoming
opportunities to provide input
Councilmember Nelson stated that he desired to retain a street easement for a future street
improvement in the area
Bruce Taber, 1527 Calturn Lane, Golden Valley, stated that he was not in favor of a road going
through this area and there would be substantial neighborhood opposition to this area
It was moved by Councilmember Sanger, seconded by Councilmember Santa, to approve second
reading, adopt Ordinance No 2154-00 that authonzes the sale of a portion of City owned
property located south of the Jewish Community Center at 4326 Cedar Lake Road, approve
summary and authorize publication The motion passed 6-1 Councilmember Nelson was
opposed
It was moved by Councilmember Sanger, seconded by Councilmember Santa, to authorize the
Mayor and City Manger to execute a purchase agreement with the Jewish Comity Center of
Greater Minneapolis The motion passed 6-1 Councilmember Nelson was opposed
8h. Request by Novartis Nutrition Corp. for a Major Amendment to a Special
Permit for a 2,000 square foot building addition Case No. 99-29-CUP
5320 W. 23rd Street. Resolution No. 00-013
Council Meeting Minutes -12- February 7, 2000
Janet Jeremiah presented a staff report and recommended approval of the Special Permit
amendment with the conditions outlined in the staff report
Councilmember Sanger asked what the timing was for the new technology to reduce dust and
odors will be phased in
Ms Jermiah stated that Novarits was currently working on this issue diligently
Councilmember Sanger requested that the Council be notified when this was accomplished
It was moved by Councilmember Sanger, seconded by Councilmember Young, to adopt
Resolution No 00-013 approving Special Permit Amendment, subject to conditions in the
resolution The motion passed 7-0
8i. First Reading of Zoning Ordinance Map Amendments
I
CASE NO. 00-02-Z
Judie Erickson, Planning Coordinator presented a staff report and recommended approval
Councilmember Nelson indicated that the neighborhood undertook an extensive survey process in
1998 and submitted a document to staff and he has not received any additional neighborhood
concerns or anticipate any neighborhood opposition about these amendments
Councilmember Latz asked if it was possible to construct a five or six apartment building on this
parcel
Ms Erickson stated that this type of development would never be able to meet parking
requirements and not be found consistent with the Comprehensive Plan She indicated that any
Multi Family or Town House development would require a CUP
It was moved by Councilmember Nelson, seconded by Councilmember Santa, to adopt first
reading of an ordinance changing Zoning Ordinance Map for properties located at the NW
quadrant of France Avenue and Excelsior Boulevard and set second reading for February 22,
2000 The motion passed 7-0
8j. Second reading of an ordinance amendment to the nonconformities section of
Zoning Ordinance regarding Conditional Use Permits for multi-tenant
buildings. Case No. 99-36-ZA. Ordinance No. 2155-00
Councilmember Nelson reviewed the new portions that were added to the ordinance He
recommended that the language on page 114, Section 14 7-2 Exception be changed to read "If a
new use requiring a CUP is proposed for part of a multi-tenant building" and delete item number
three
Councilmember Sanger was opposed to the ordinance because the language was much too lax on
the landlords of multi tenant buildings on letting them not do to come into full conformance
Council Meeting Minutes -13- February 7, 2000
It was moved by Councilmember Nelson, seconded by Councilmember Young, to approve second
reading of Ordinance No 2155-00 amending nonconformities section of Zoning Ordinance, with
the recommended amendment and adopt the summary ordinance, and to authorize publication
The motion passed 6-1 Councilmember Sanger was opposed
8k. Hennepin County Municipal Recycling Grant Application.
Resolution No. 00-014
By consent, Council adopted Resolution No 00-014 authorizing application for a Hennepin
County grant to fund the City's curbside recycling program
81. CASE NO. 00-01-RE -- Study of Tax Forfeit Lands in St. Louis Park
Resolution No. 00-015
Council found no current or future public need for the properties, that none of the properties meet
Zoning Ordinance requirements for a buildable lot, and that properties be offered for auction to
adjacent property owners only
By consent, Council adopted Resolution No 00-015 approving designation of nonconservation
land shown on classification list 1114-nc by Board of County Commissioners of Hennepin
County, 2432 Sumter Ave S, 8400 26th St W, 8401 26th St W, 3760 Brunswick Ave S, 7829
Cambridge St, and 2714 Quentin Ave S, 2708 Quentin Ave S
8m. Mill City Tax Increment Finance District. Resolution No. 00-016
By consent, Council adopted Resolution No 00-016 calling for a public hearing by the City
Council on the proposed establishment of the Mill City Tax Increment Financing District within
Redevelopment Project No 1, and the Proposed Adoption of the Tax Increment Financing Plan
Therefor
8n. CSM Business Subsidy Agreement. Resolution No. 00-017
By consent, Council approved Resolution No 00-017 approving a business subsidy agreement
between the St Louis Park Economic Development Authority and CSM Hospitality, Inc relating
to its development of two hotels in the Zarthan/16th Street Tax Increment Financing Distnct
80. Mileage Reimbursement and Car Allowance. Resolution No. 00-018
By consent, Council adopted Resolution No 00-018 authorizing the amount of car allowances
allocated for specified positions and set the mileage reimbursement rate consistent with IRS
regulations to be effective as of 1/1/200
9. Reports from Officers, Boards, Committees
a. December Financial Report
.111
b. Cable TV Commission Minutes of December 9, 1999
c. Charter Commission Minutes of November 1, 1999
Council Meeting Minutes -14- February 7, 2000
d. Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission Minutes of December 8, 1999
e. BOZA Minutes of November 30, 1999
f. Planning Commission Minutes of January 5, 2000
g. Police Civil Service Commission Minutes of September 20, 1999
h. Vendor Claim Report
i. Human Rights Commission Minutes of December 15, 1999
By consent, Council accepted all reports for filing
10. Unfinished Business
a. Board and Commission Appointment(s)
It was moved by Councilmember Young, seconded by Councilmember Santa, to appoint Kristin
Sigamund to the Human Rights Commission and Paula Fadden to CEAC The motion passed 7-
0
11. New Business
l la. Phase H Railroad Study
Mr Meyer, City Manager presented a staff report and indicated that work related to the blocking
issue with Hopkins and Minnetonka was not part of this agreement
Lee Koppy, RLK-Kuusisto, Ltd was present
Councilmember Sanger asked where the study would be addressing noise mitigation safety issues
and costs whistle blowing restriction and any possibility of a possible connection going South
toward Edina
Mr Koppy stated that the connection to the south is definitely included in the feasibility study and
will be looked at He stated that the whistle blowing item was going to be handled with the
feasibility study when they look at the intersection upgrades He stated that RLK did not
specifically look at the safety issue, but would probably be part of the feasibility study adhering to
design standards
Mr Meyer stated that the intent in this agreement was that the environmental work would be
subcontracted and reference as Appendix D
Councilmember Sanger was concerned that there was not adequate funds for this study to identify
and cover all the environmental issues voiced by the community
Council Meeting Minutes -15- February 7, 2000
Mr Meyer stated that this was an issue for the Council to consider and the City could do original
studies, but indicated that this approach would use existing information that was not based on
studies done in St Louis Park
Councilmember Sanger recommended removing this item off the agenda and go back and look at
how it is that the City is going to think through and address the environmental issues
Councilmember Nelson didn't agree that any suggestion has been made that the Council was
ignoring any of the interests of the community He asked the consultant if the proposed study
could be done within the budget outlined
Mr Koppy indicated that he believed that the scope of services for the environmental work has
intentionally been left very brief and that it was intended that the fuller scope would be developed
with the input of a proposed task force He stated that if RLK was looking to do studies that are
significantly greater than the proposed budget that they may go back to the County and
renegotiate with a revised scope of work
Councilmember Sanger believed that the Council has been given inadequate information and there
was a need to rethink this process and figure out what it takes up front to do a study that will fully
cover the issues and fully satisfy the many hundreds of residents that area convinced that we
haven't done a good job so far
Councilmember Brimeyer stated that if the response was going to be that this was a white wash
and we shouldn't be doing this, then he was willing to table this and let it sit there for a couple of
years, but that this not solving the problem
It was moved by Councilmember Latz, seconded by Councilmember Nelson, to authorize the
Mayor and City Manager to execute a professional services agreement for Phase Two of the
Railroad Study The motion passed 5-2 Councilmembers Brimeyer and Sanger opposed
11b. Dan Patch Corridor Commuter Rail Feasibility Study Invoice and Contract
By consent, Council authorized the Mayor and City Manger to execute the agreement
llc. 1999 Fund Balance Reservations
By consent, Council moved to reserve requested fund balances
11d. Sholom Home West Revenue Bonds
By consent, Council approved capital improvements of a covered walkway for approximately
$550,000 and heating and ventilation improvements for approximately $200,000 done by Sholom
Home West
12. Miscellaneous - None
Council Meeting Minutes -16- February 7, 2000
13. Claims, Appropriation, Contract Payments
a. Contract payments
Contractor Contract No. Amount
Killmer Electric 18-99 $ 3,111 83 Resolution No 00-019
Valley Paving 19-99 $ 27,233 14 Resolution No 00-020
M C Magney Construction, Inc 33-98 $ 21,332 52 Resolution No 00-021
14. Communications
>From the City Manager - None
>From the Mayor -None
15. Adjournment
It was moved by Councilmember Nelson, seconded by Councilmember Sanger, to adjourn the
meeting at 11 58 p m The motion passed 7-0
Ci y Clerk Ma�r