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Home My WebLink About2007/03/12 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - City Council - Study SessionCity Council Study Session March 12, 2007 6:30 PM City Hall Council Chambers Discussion Items Approximate Times 1. 6:30 pm Future Study Session Agenda Planning 2. 6:35 pm Telecommunications Advisory Commission Work Plan and Annual Report 3. 6:50 pm Solid Waste Contract 4. 7:35 pm Vision St. Louis Park – Next Steps 5. 8:20pm Legislative Update Written Reports 6. Purchase of Additional Park Land from the DNR 7. MCES Sanitary Sewer Interceptor Relining Project Update 8:30 p.m. Adjourn Auxiliary aids for individuals with disabilities are available upon request. To make arrangements, please call the Administrative Services Department at (952) 924-2525 (TDD (952) 924-2518) at least 96 hours in advance of meeting. St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 031207 - 1 - Future Study Session Agenda Planning Page 1 1. Future Study Session Agenda Planning Administrative Services PURPOSE OF DISCUSSION: To assist the City Council and the City Manager in setting the next study session agenda. BACKGROUND: At each study session, approximately five minutes are set aside to discuss the next study session agenda. For this purpose, attached please find the tentative agenda and proposed discussion items for the March 26th study session. Attachment: Future Study Session Agenda Planning Prepared by: Marcia Honold, Management Assistant Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 031207 - 1 - Future Study Session Agenda Planning Page 2 Future Study Session Agenda Planning Monday, March 26, 2007 Tentative Discussion –7:00 p.m. A. Future Agenda Planning – Administrative Services (5 minutes) B. Paperless Agenda – Administrative Services (30 minutes) Staff to present Council an overview of the process by which St. Louis Park could transition to an electronic format for Council agendas. After the staff presentation, Council will be asked to discuss and provide direction on policy implications associated with a paperless agenda process. C. Planning Commission Annual Report and Work Plan – Administrative Services (15 minutes) Council will be asked to review the Planning Commissions Annual Report and Work Plan and indicate whether the Planning Commission needs to make any changes to the plan prior to meeting with the Council in April? D. EDI Project Business Points and TIF Application – Community Development (45 minutes) Staff to review the proposed site plan, developer’s TIF application, and business terms for the EDI Project. Policy question: does the Council support the proposed business terms and level of development assistance? E. Duke Concept Plan and TIF Application – Community Development (45 minutes) Staff will review with Council the proposed concept plan and the developers request for TIF assistance. Policy questions Council will be asked to discuss include its general comfort with the concept plan and the level of TIF assistance being proposed. Reports: Update on Hwy 7 and Wooddale Interchange Project – Public Works Pandemic Planning Overview - Fire Financial Report (Monthly) – Finance Wireless Update (Monthly) – Information Resources. St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 031207 - 2 - TAC Annual Report and Work Plan Page 1 2. Telecommunications Advisory Commission Annual Report and Work Plan Information Resources PURPOSE OF DISCUSSION: The Telecommunications Advisory Commission (TAC) will meet with the City Council at the March 12, 2007, study session to conduct the business of annual reporting. Commission members attending anticipate the following topics of discussion with the Council: • Review 2006 activities and experiences • Outline plans for 2007 • Receive direction from Council • Answer questions from Council The Council reviewed the draft plans at their study session on February 5, and was pleased with the work of the TAC. In addition to the submitted reports, the Council would like to discuss fiber optic issues, high speed internet and emerging new technologies with the Commissioners. Attachments: TAC 2006 Annual Report 2007 TAC Work Plan Prepared by: Reg Dunlap, Civic TV Coordinator Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 031207 - 2 - TAC Annual Report and Work Plan Page 2 TELECOMMUNICATIONS ADVISORY COMMISSION 2006 ANNUAL REPORT The Telecommunications Advisory Commission held four official meetings in 2006, and Commissioners remained involved in other ways including: • Commissioners Browning, Dworsky, Hartman, Huiras, and Jacobson attended the March 27 Council Study Session to discuss the Telecommunications Commission Annual Report, a proposed fiber optic ordinance and the Work Plan for 2006. • Commissioners Dworsky, Hartman, Jacobson and Overend attended the Minnesota Association of Community Television Administrators (MACTA) annual conference in the fall. • Chair Dworsky contacted staff as needed to prepare or follow up on Commission activities. • Chair Dworsky attended a National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (NATOA) conference in Orlando, FL, reported back to the Commission and shared numerous handouts with staff. School District #283 Funding Grant On May 4, the Commission recommended fully funding the District’s request for a $35,000 operations grant, approved by Council on the consent agenda June 5. Web Site Town Meeting The Commission hosted a meeting February 9 to demonstrate the new City web site designed by Jason Huber, the Technology & Support Services (TSS) Web Developer. Several residents attended and commented favorably on the recent changes to the web site and offered suggestions for further improvements. Web Streaming Local Channels and “Video on Demand” of Council Meetings & Other Programs TSS staff Clint Pires, Jason Huber, John McHugh and Reg Dunlap reviewed proposals from three vendors and selected Implex to supply infrastructure to web stream the City’s three channels and host “Video on Demand” archives on the City web site. Web streaming, “Video on Demand” archives and GovDelivery were demonstrated for the Commission on August 3. Fiber Optic Ordinance The Commission heard testimony from Jim Erickson & Craig Rapp of Fiber First, Minnesota, supporting an ordinance requiring fiber to the home premises. Staff contacted some developers that are building projects in St. Louis Park and the results were mixed; most were concerned about adding costs to projects, but some supported the general concept. The Commission directed staff to do further research and also has been waiting to see if the Park Wi Fi project will go ahead before further discussing the concepts that could be included in a fiber optic ordinance. Local Origination Transition A number of tasks have been completed. John McHugh researched production vans early in 2006 and reported to the Commission. John also arranged for a satellite dish installation at City Hall to receive the NASA signal, which runs part time on channel 16. Park TV 16 will be the St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 031207 - 2 - TAC Annual Report and Work Plan Page 3 name of the former L.O. channel until the City’s new Communication Coordinator is available to help brand all of the local channels. John has arranged to use the High School studio part time after the Comcast studio is no longer available as per franchise agreement after December 31, 2006. The Comcast van and title was transferred to the City on December 29, 2006. The City’s character generators were upgraded in December to allow text messages and programming to be replayed on channel 16. Park TV staff has been hired and begins work the first week of 2007. Staff expects the first City van production to occur on January 5 or 6. Legislative Issues A national cable franchising bill proposed by Rep. Joe Barton (Republican, Texas) and opposed by local governments, passed the House but its less onerous sister bill in the Senate, proposed by Sen. Ted Stevens (Republican, Alaska), wasn’t brought to a vote. The fall elections changed control of both Houses of Congress so there will be new committee chairs in 2007 and the national franchising bill isn’t expected to be a high priority. However the MACTA Board is concerned that the push to pass state-wide franchising bills may affect Minnesota this year. Statewide franchising bills vary and to date have always passed over the objections of local authorities. Telecommunications Commission Attendance: 2006 Commissioner 1/19 2/9 Web site town mtg. 3/27 Study Session 5/4 8/3 12/7 Total attended Rick Dworsky (Chair) YES YES YES YES YES YES 6 Ken Huiras (Vice Chair) YES YES YES YES YES YES 6 Mary Jean Overend YES YES - - YES - 3 Bruce Browning YES YES YES YES YES YES 6 Dale Hartman YES YES YES YES YES YES 6 Bob Jacobson YES YES YES YES YES YES 6 Rolf Peterson YES - - YES - YES 3 Kirk Morrow (appointed 9/5/06) YES 1 St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 031207 - 2 - TAC Annual Report and Work Plan Page 4 2007 Telecommunications Advisory Commission Work Plan February 1 Council Chambers ♦ Update on Park Wi Fi ♦ Progress on fiber optic ordinance ♦ Park TV update ♦ Studio update ♦ School District accountability policy proposal ♦ Cable company reports and suggested categories to track ♦ FCC rule making update March Joint meeting at City Council Study Session ♦ Review 2006 Annual Commission Report to City Council ♦ Review Work Plan for 2007 ♦ FCC rule making update May 3 Council Chambers ♦ School District funding for 2006 ♦ School District quarterly report ♦ Using High School studio for Community TV productions July 12 Council Chambers ♦ Update on Park Wi Fi ♦ Review draft mid year report July 31 mid year progress report to Council October 4 Council Chambers December 6 Council Chambers ♦ Comcast presentation on new cable rates and/or changes in the channel line up ♦ Review School District reports ♦ Wireless update ♦ Set meetings for 2008 ♦ Draft Work Plan for 2008 ♦ Draft Annual Report for 2007 St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 031207 - 3 - Solid Waste Contract Page 1 3. Solid Waste Contract Discussion Public Works PURPOSE OF DISCUSSION: The purpose of this discussion is to provide Council with current program information, to discuss a basic process to follow to consider future solid waste program collection services, and to obtain Council input on program and contract concerns or issues. BACKGROUND: The City initially entered into a solid waste contract for the collection of refuse, recycling, and yard waste with Waste Management, Inc. (WMI) with services beginning October 1, 1997. The current five-year contract will expire September 30, 2008. In 2001, staff and Council developed the purpose, goals and objectives of the current residential solid waste program (see Attachment “A”). The program goals below are referred to routinely when working with resident concerns, program issues, and our contractor to ensure program and service quality and consistency:  High Quality Service  Environmental Stewardship  Cost Effective Services  Effective Communication  Continual Evaluation of Program and Industry In 2001 and 2002, staff and Council closely scrutinized the existing residential solid waste collection program. This led to an extensive public input process to identify and understand the needs of our residents. This process resulted in significant changes being made to the program including: pay-as- you-throw refuse collection; purchase and use of carts for refuse; reduced rate option for yard waste collection; citywide cleanup day; increased public education by both the city and hauler; and elimination of large one-pass trucks. These program changes were put in place in conjunction with the current collection contract in 2003. Attached is a brief overview of the residential collection program (see Attachment “B”). Resident surveys assessing city and contractor performance as well as program satisfaction were performed in 2005 and in 2006. Those surveys indicate significant resident satisfaction with contractor / staff performance and with the overall program in general. While Public Works staff continually works with residents, our contractor, and other city staff to provide the best program and services possible, there are several minor operational issues which continue to exist such as:  Refuse bags outside of the carts without extra refuse stickers  Overfilled, open carts that create a litter problem and contribute to vermin problems  Carts left in the right-of-way (on sidewalks and in streets) during collection  Carts storage during non-collection  Bulk items are left out without collection arrangements made St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 031207 - 3 - Solid Waste Contract Page 2 TIMELINE: Since our current contract with WMI expires September 30, 2008, another contract(s) needs to be arranged well before then or else a contract extension with WMI will be necessary. The simplest, most expedient action to put a new contract in place would be to renegotiate a new contract with WMI; otherwise, a proposal process to solicit contractors will be necessary. In either case, adequate time will be needed to allow WMI or any new contractor(s) to make necessary preparations to begin new services on October 1, 2008. The following deadlines will need to be met to avoid the necessity of a contract extension with WMI:  If a contract is simply renegotiated with WMI, it should be finalized and in place no later than three (3) months prior to expiration of the current contract - June 30, 2008.  If a new contractor(s) is chosen, a new contract(s) should be finalized and in place no later than six (6) months prior to expiration of the current contract - March 31, 2008. PROPOSED PROCESS: With the above deadlines in mind, staff has developed the following basic process to guide deliberations in this matter. Based on the scenario of a new contractor(s) being chosen (most time intensive process), the following deadlines were developed: 1. Review and revise the existing program / services - complete by August 31, 2007. 2. Determine a preferred service delivery method, i.e. contracted service, collection by city staff, or subscription service - complete by September 30, 2007. 3. Review and revise the existing contract (program and service delivery requirements) - complete by November 30, 2007. 4. Implement the revised program / services and service delivery method chosen (new contract in place) - complete by March 31, 2008. POLICY QUESTIONS: 1. Do the Solid Waste Program Purpose, Goals and Objectives align with the City Vision / Council desired results or goals? 2. What, if any, program / service changes should be considered? This is process item #1 above and will need to be completed by August 31, 2007.  Expand / enhance recycling  Provide for local hazardous waste drop-off sites  Other?? 3. What thoughts does the Council have at this time, if any, regarding service delivery methods such as renegotiating a contract with WMI, requesting proposals for a new contract, city staff provided service, or subscription (free market) service? This is process item #2 above and will need to be completed by September 30, 2007. 4. What changes should be made to the process outlined above, if any? NEXT STEPS: Based on the answers provided to the policy questions, next steps will be discussed and determined at the end of the study session discussion. Attachments: Attachment “A” - Solid Waste Program Purpose, Goals and Objectives Attachment “B” – Solid Waste Program Overview (3 pages) Prepared by: Scott Merkley, Public Works Coordinator Sarah Hellekson, Public Works Administrative Specialist Reviewed by: Michael P. Rardin, Director of Public Works Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 031207 - 3 - Solid Waste Contract Page 3 ATTACHMENT “A” SOLID WASTE PROGRAM PURPOSE, GOALS AND OBJECTIVES PURPOSE: To provide solid waste services responsive to citizens’ needs to ensure a vital community. Goal 1: High Quality Service Objectives: 1. Cooperate with other departments and groups to maintain a clean city. 2. Provide consistent & reliable service. 3. Merit high regard from citizens for the Solid Waste Program. 4. Provide convenient, user-friendly solid waste services. Goal 2: Environmental Stewardship Objectives: 1. Promote public health and safety. 2. Encourage citizens to take responsibility for the environmentally sound management of their solid waste. 3. Achieve the most appropriate level of reduction, reuse and recycling. Goal 3: Cost Effective Services Objectives: 1. Pursue changes that may reduce cost while continuing to meet the other goals of the Program. 2. Minimize city administrative effort and costs without compromising the other Program goals. Goal 4: Effective Communication Objectives: 1. Inform the residents about the city’s program and services. 2. Solicit public opinion. 3. Provide public education on reducing, reusing and recycling solid waste. Goal 5: Continual Evaluation of Program and Industry Objectives: 1. Continually monitor program performance with surrounding communities. 2. Track industry standards. 3. Measure our own performance. 4. Comply with regulations on solid waste. 5. Be proactive in providing new and better ways to provide service. St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 031207 - 3 - Solid Waste Contract Page 4 ATTACHMENT “B” SOLID WASTE PROGRAM OVERVIEW GARBAGE Pay-As-You-Throw Service Level Options for Garbage: 30-gallon service $39.65 per quarter (includes tax) 60-gallon service $50.23 per quarter (includes tax) 90-gallon service $60.80 per quarter (includes tax) 90+ (120 - 180-gallon) service $71.38 per quarter (includes tax) 270-gallon service $91.37 per quarter (includes tax) 360-gallon service $111.37 per quarter (includes tax) 450-gallon service $131.37 per quarter (includes tax) 540-gallon service $151.38 per quarter (includes tax) Collection Day Garbage, recycling and yard waste are collected on the same day each week by the city contractor, Waste Management. Extra Refuse Stickers Any bag of garbage that does not fit entirely inside your garbage cart will not be collected without an Extra Refuse sticker on the bag. Extra Refuse stickers are ONLY for bags of regular household garbage. They may not be used for boxes, bulk items or appliances. Garbage Carts Customers selecting the 30-, 60- or 90-gallon service level will have one cart delivered to their home at no charge. Customers selecting the 90+ gallon service level will receive the minimum number of carts needed to reach their service level selection at no charge. If this standard cart assignment won't work for a resident, the resident may request a combination of carts (i.e., instead of one 60 gallon cart, the resident could arrange for two 30-gallon carts). If the resident chooses this option, they will have to pay for the additional cart.  Additional 30-gallon cart - $40  Additional 60-gallon cart - $44  Additional 90-gallon cart - $48 Cart Storage City ordinance allows garbage carts and recycling bins to be at the curb for no more than 24 hours. Carts should be stored in a garage if possible. If carts must be stored outdoors, they must be stored where they are least visible to neighbors. Garbage carts must be stored inside a building or outside on the property, except when placed out for collection on the collection day. If stored outside, the carts must be located behind the building line adjacent to any street or alley right-of-way line. Carts must also be placed four (4) feet or more from interior lot lines. This also means that carts should not be stored behind garages adjacent to the alley so that the cart is on or next to the property line. St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 031207 - 3 - Solid Waste Contract Page 5 RECYCLING Two Sort Recycling Sort One – Containers: Cans, Glass and Plastics Metal food cans, aluminum beverage cans, aluminum trays, clean aluminum foil, glass bottles and jars (brown, green and clear). Sort Two - Paper Mail, office and school papers, magazines and catalogs, newspapers and inserts, phone books, shredded paper in closed paper bags, cardboard boxes, cereal boxes, cracker boxes, pasta boxes, cake mix boxes, shoe boxes, gift boxes & electronic boxes, boxes from toothpaste, medications and other toiletries. Bin Storage Recyclable materials & bins must be stored inside a dwelling or structure, except when placed out for pickup that day. YARD WASTE Two Yard Waste Collection Options: Full yard waste collection option includes collection of grass clippings, leaves, twigs and weeds. There is no additional charge for this service. The No grass clippings option includes collection of leaves, twigs and weeds but not grass clippings. This option reduces the resident’s quarterly garbage collection rate by $3. BULK AND APPLIANCE COLLECTION Collection of appliances, furniture, construction debris or large loads is not part of the regular trash collection service. To have special items or large loads collected, residents make arrangements with Waste Management or other licensed hauler. Prices vary depending on the item or size of the load. CITYWIDE CLEANUP DAYS The City holds a spring and fall citywide cleanup day event to provide residents with another option for disposing of their unwanted items. This service is provided as a lower cost alternative to having items picked up curbside. Unwanted items such as furniture, scrap metal, bikes, carpet, tires, left over remodeling supplies, appliances and equipment (lawn mowers and snow blowers drained of all fluids) can be brought to the event. A disposal fee is charged for items. The event is for St. Louis Park residents only. Tree debris, brush, yard waste, garbage, recyclables, hazardous waste, and electronics are not accepted. Hazardous waste and electronics can be taken to the Hennepin County collection event in the spring in St. Louis Park or to a Hennepin County drop off sites year round. Most years the Salvation Army has been on site to accept donated items. St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 031207 - 3 - Solid Waste Contract Page 6 Service Level Number of 2006 2006 Services HH / Mo.Annual Cost 30 Gal.4,032 $5.25 $254,037.00 60 Gal.5,710 $5.25 $359,709.00 90 Gal.2,011 $5.25 $126,719.25 90-180 Gal.427 $5.25 $26,916.75 270 Gal.22 $5.25 $1,354.50 360 Gal.15 $5.25 $955.50 450 Gal.0 $5.25 $0.00 540 Gal.0 $5.25 $0.00 Total Refuse 12,217 $769,692.00 Total Recycling 12,217 $2.51 $367,986.08 Yard Waste - Full 4,242 $1.16 $59,048.64 Yard Waste - Limited 7,975 $1.16 $111,012.00 Total Yard Waste 12,217 $170,060.64 Total WM Costs $1,307,738.72 Type Tonnage 2006 2006 $ / Ton Annual Cost Refuse (HERC)9,000 $34.00 $306,000.00 Recycling 4,166 $0.00 $0.00 Yardwaste 3,411 $41.37 $141,113.07 Disposal Totals $447,113.07 Service Level Number of 2006 2006 Services HH / Mo.Annual Credit Yard Waste - Full 4,242 $0.00 $0.00 Yard Waste - Limited 7,975 $3.00 $95,700.00 Totals 12,217 $95,700.00 Service Level Number of 2006 2006 Services HH / Qtr.Annual Cost 30 Gal.4,032 $35.00 $564,526.67 60 Gal.5,710 $45.00 $1,027,740.00 90 Gal.2,011 $55.00 $442,511.67 90-180 Gal.427 $65.00 $111,085.00 270 Gal.22 $83.91 $7,216.26 360 Gal.15 $102.83 $6,238.35 450 Gal.0 $121.74 $0.00 540 Gal.0 $140.66 $0.00 Totals 12,217 $2,159,317.95 Revenues 2006 COLLECTION & DISPOSAL COSTS / REVENUES Disposal Costs Yard Waste Credit Costs Waste Management Contract Costs St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 031207 - 4 - Vision St Louis Park - Next Steps Page 1 4. Vision St. Louis Park – Next Steps Administrative Services PURPOSE OF DISCUSSION: To continue dialogue with Council on Vision and next steps. More specifically, is Council comfortable with undertaking the following: 1.) “Accepting” or “Receiving” the overall recommendations from the Vision Action Teams and; 2.) Adopting the “Strategic Directions” developed by Council at the recent two day Council workshop. BACKGROUND: On February 23 and 24, 2007, Council participated in a workshop and discussed in detail the results of the recent community visioning process. At the end of the session, Council, with the assistance of consultant ML Rice, developed a draft of “Strategic Directions” as a means to provide focus for the Council and staff over the next 18 months. Prior to the workshop, the Council received the Vision Workbook: a notebook with tabs for the 8 action team areas. The pages show all the goals, action steps, proposed timeline and suggested lead partners. DISCUSSION OF POSSIBLE NEXT STEPS: At the study session Monday evening, staff would like to determine if Council is ready to move ahead with the following next steps: • Vision Workbook: The first suggested step would be to have Council take official action to “receive” the recommendations in the Vision Workbook. By taking this action the Council would officially recognize the work of the community over the last 18 months. By the same token, the Council would not be committing to literally undertaking steps to achieve each goal or action step. A similar approach was successfully used as part of the visioning process undertaken in 1994/95. • Strategic Directions -18 Month Guide: A suggested second step would be for Council to adopt the Strategic Directions (the “what”) developed during the Council workshop. Subsequent to this action staff would then develop the steps and actions necessary (the “how”) to address these Strategic Directions. Staff is interested in knowing if Council would like to make any final adjustments to the draft Strategic Directions prior to adoption. • Communication: After our study session, staff will work on a plan for communication to our community, action team chairs, staff and partners regarding Vision. Attachment: Draft of Proposed Strategic Directions from City Council Workshop on February 23-24, 2007 (with suggested clarifying edit) Prepared by: Bridget Gothberg, Organizational Development Coordinator, Marcia Honold, Management Assistant Nancy Gohman, Director of Human Resources Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 031207 - 4 - Vision St Louis Park - Next Steps Page 2 Proposed Strategic Directions from City Council Workshop February 23-24, 2007 St. Louis Park is committed to being a connected and engaged community. Focus will be on: • Conducting research to determine what makes a neighborhood organization strong, viable and sustainable • Developing an expanded and organized network of sidewalks and trails. • Promoting regional transportation issues and related dedicated funding sources effecting St. Louis Park including but not limited to Hwy. 100 and SWLRT. • Evaluating and investigating additional north/south transportation options for the community. • Increasing use of new and existing gathering places and ensuring accessibility throughout the community • Exploring creation of a multi-use civic center, including indoor/winter use. • Directing the Human Rights Commission to examine the Diversity section of Vision St. Louis Park and develop goals/recommendations for actions St. Louis Park is committed to being a leader in environmental stewardship. We will increase environmental consciousness and responsibility in all areas of city business. Focus will be on: • Expanding energy efficiencies in the City’s operations • Educating staff and the public • Working with developers through areas such as green building techniques, LEED, permitting processes, open spaces, etc. • Working in areas such as the rehab loan program, development projects, permits etc, encourage (and provide incentives where appropriate) green building design (LEED), creation of open spaces, environmental innovations etc. • Preserving, enhancing and providing good stewardship of our parks • Investigating the need and purpose for an energy/environmental commission St. Louis Park is committed to providing a well-maintained and diverse housing stock. Focus will be on: • Remodeling and expanding move-up, single-family, owner-occupied homes • Property maintenance to foster quality housing and community aesthetics • Working towards affordable single-family home ownership throughout the city St. Louis Park is committed to promoting and integrating arts, culture, and community aesthetics in all City initiatives, including implementation where appropriate. St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Discussion Item: 031207 - 5 - Legislative Update Page 1 5. Legislative Update Administrative Services PURPOSE OF DISCUSSION: City Manager Tom Harmening will provide the Council with an update on the city’s progress on state and federal legislative initiatives. Prepared and Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Written Report: 031207 - 6 - Purchase of Additional Park Land from the DNR Page 1 6. Purchase of Additional Park Land from the DNR Parks and Recreation Department PURPOSE OF REPORT: To provide background information to the City Council regarding the potential purchase of additional park property along Minnehaha Creek. BACKGROUND: The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) approached Parks and Recreation staff in regards to the purchase of property along Minnehaha Creek which they own. The property is a narrow strip of land, five acres in size, located on the north and south side of the creek near the Municipal Service Center (MSC). An attached map shows the exact location. The DNR has recently received legislative approval to sell this property. The property no longer fits the criteria for continued ownership by the DNR. PURCHASE OF THE PROPERTY: The legislative authorization for selling this parcel provides for conveyance to a local unit of government provided the land is used for a public purpose. The deed conveying the property would contain a clause providing for the return of the property to the State if the unit of government failed to provide for public use, or abandons the public use of the land. In this case the public use would be for park and open space purposes The Minnehaha Creek Watershed District (MCWD) has also expressed interest in acquiring the property and management of it. Staff met with the MCWD and the DNR to discuss the joint interest in the property. It was recommended to have the City of St. Louis Park own the property and for the MCWD to acquire a conservation easement over the property. The MCWD would then help provide financing to reestablish the creek banks as well as restoring native plantings in the area. A future agenda item will be brought forward to have the City Council consider purchasing this property and entering into a conservation easement with the MCWD. The DNR has identified their minimum selling price of this land to be $1,000. In addition, they would like to be reimbursed for the deed tax and recording fee for a total price of $1,049.30. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends purchasing this property. The purchase of the property would be consistent with the recommendations which recently came out of the Visioning process. Staff would work with the MCWD in the future to make minimal improvements to the area which may include a trail along portions of the creek. This item will be brought to the City Council on March 19, 2007 to approve the purchase. Attachment: Location Map Prepared by: Cindy Walsh, Director of Parks and Recreation Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Written Report: 031207 - 6 - Purchase of Additional Park Land from the DNR Page 2 St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Written Report: 031207 - 7 - MCES Sanitary Sewer Interceptor Relining Project Update Page 1 7. MCES Sanitary Sewer Interceptor Relining Project Update Public Works PURPOSE OF REPORT: To update Council on the status and upcoming work actions scheduled by Metropolitan Council Environmental Services (MCES) with regards to the relining of their sanitary sewer interceptor in the south part of the City. BACKGROUND: Late last fall, MCES initiated rehabilitation work on sanitary sewer interceptor pipe (1-SLP-470) located within the City of St. Louis Park. Commencing on the east end at France Avenue, the pipe essentially runs west on 39th Street to Natchez Avenue, west on 40th Street to Wooddale Avenue, and then north on Wooddale Avenue to Excelsior Boulevard. On Excelsior Boulevard, the pipe runs westerly and terminates near Zarthan Avenue. The pipe is buried very deep (20 – 30 feet), and varies in size from 18 inches in diameter on the west end, to 33 inches in diameter on the east end at France Avenue. The rehabilitation work by MCES utilizes a “trenchless” technology referred to as Cured In Place Pipe (CIPP). This CIPP rehabilitation process basically involves insertion of a folded/collapsed lining into the pipe between the manholes that is expanded against the inside diameter of the existing (host) pipe by water pressure, where it then hardens and essentially results in a new pipe inside of the old pipe. This process eliminates deep open trench excavations in the street by conventional pipe replacement methods. While this method eliminates costly excavations, and restoration costs, temporary bypassing of the existing sewage flow is needed to perform the work. The flow bypass is achieved by pumping the sewage over ground in temporary pipes until the relining itself is completed and the flow can be routed back underground. The temporary above ground piping does cross some streets and driveways, thus resulting in some temporary restrictions in traffic movements while the work is being conducted. Last fall, MCES commenced work at the downstream end (France Avenue) and worked their way west. They have now completed all work between France Avenue and near the intersection of Wooddale Avenue and Excelsior Boulevard. MCES and their contractor (Michels Corporation) are now prepared to complete the next phase of the work on Excelsior Boulevard from Wooddale Avenue to Zarthan Avenue. PROJECT UPDATE: For the work completed to date (France Avenue to Excelsior Boulevard), the majority of the work has taken place on neighborhood residential streets. Direct notification to property owners in the immediate area of the work and advance warning signs generally accomplished much of the notification needed. Although there were some inconveniences and isolated access issues, most problems were minor and of little impact due to the work being performed primarily on local streets. St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Written Report: 031207 - 7 - MCES Sanitary Sewer Interceptor Relining Project Update Page 2 The next phase of the work (Excelsior Boulevard from Wooddale Avenue to Zarthan Avenue) will be much more disruptive to traffic and access. Because Excelsior Boulevard and Highway 100 ramps will be impacted by the work, Hennepin County and Mn/DOT have also been involved in the review and permitting of this next phase of the work. Over the past couple of months, there has been extensive correspondence amongst the City, Hennepin County, Mn/DOT, MCES, and their contractor. Several proposed traffic control plans were reviewed and rejected. With the nature of the work (including the bypass pumping), it has been recognized that at least some inconveniences and traffic movement restrictions will be unavoidable. Coming up with a plan that enables accomplishing the work while minimizing the impact to motorists has not been easy. This is especially critical, not only for the volumes of through traffic, but also for access to the nearby medical facilities and businesses. At this time, pending approval of the contractor’s permit applications by Mn/DOT and Hennepin County, and weather permitting, work set up is scheduled to commence just prior to the weekend of March 23-25. The contractor’s intent is to implement traffic restrictions and perform the work over two successive weekends: March 23-25, and March 30-April 1. The first weekend will be a set up of the traffic restrictions and televising and cleaning of the sewer line. The following weekend, the traffic restrictions will again be set up to accomplish the actual bypass pumping and the relining work itself. Following is a general overview of the traffic restrictions that will be imposed, based upon the current traffic control plan provided by Met Council. However, the plan may be subject to further modification, pending final permit approvals by Hennepin County and Mn/DOT. 1. The east-west flow of traffic on Excelsior Boulevard through the project corridor will be maintained by shifting traffic to the south ½ of the roadway and maintaining one lane of traffic in each direction. 2. Bypass pumping will be accomplished by connecting into manholes and running above ground pipe down the center of Excelsior Boulevard. Therefore, it will not be possible to cross Excelsior Boulevard from south to north or vice versa throughout the project corridor. Driveways and streets on the north side of Excelsior Boulevard (from the Highway 100 bridge to Zarthan Avenue) will have direct westbound access to Excelsior Boulevard only (right on-right off). Transition of the two way traffic back to full roadway use will occur just east of the railroad tracks. This will be accomplished by removal of portions of the existing bituminous medians, which are also to be removed as part of the upcoming Excelsior Boulevard reconstruction project later this year. Therefore, full access will be available at the intersection of Excelsior Boulevard and Alabama/Brookside Avenues. 3. Diversion of traffic on the east end of the project will commence at Wooddale Avenue. Westbound Excelsior Boulevard traffic will be routed to the south ½ of the roadway as previously described. The westbound Excelsior Boulevard to the northbound Highway 100 ramp/Park Center Boulevard traffic movement will still be possible. However, the northbound Wooddale Avenue to the northbound Highway 100 ramp/Park Center Boulevard traffic movement will not be possible. St. Louis Park City Council Study Session Written Report: 031207 - 7 - MCES Sanitary Sewer Interceptor Relining Project Update Page 3 4. For southbound Park Center Boulevard traffic approaching Excelsior Boulevard, the right turn movement to westbound Excelsior Boulevard will still be possible. However, the southbound to eastbound (left turn) movement will not be possible. 5. For the northbound Highway 100 off ramp approaching Excelsior Boulevard, westbound and east bound movements to Excelsior Boulevard (left turn and right turn) will still be possible. Crossing Excelsior Boulevard to Park Center Boulevard will not be possible. 6. For eastbound Excelsior Boulevard traffic crossing the bridge, the left turn (northbound) movement to Park Center Boulevard/Highway 100 northbound entry ramp will not be possible. 7. For the southbound Highway 100 off ramp to Excelsior Boulevard, eastbound and westbound (left and right) turns will still be possible. 8. In simple terms, crossing Excelsior Boulevard from north to south (or vice versa) will not be possible between Alabama Avenue and Park Nicollet Boulevard. Advance public notification for this upcoming work is very critical, and the City has coordinated these efforts with Met Council and Hennepin County. Met Council will provide direct written notification to properties adjacent to the work areas, and the medical facilities. Advance notification signs and detours will be set up, and Met Council and Hennepin County will also be issuing press releases that will include appropriate media and emergency services contacts. Mn/DOT may also be requiring additional notification measures as deemed necessary. SUMMARY: Following is a general summary of the anticipated work and traffic constrictions: 1. Pending approval of the contractor’s permit applications to Mn/DOT and Hennepin County, and weather permitting, work set up is scheduled to commence just prior to the weekend of March 23-25. The contractor’s intent is to implement traffic restrictions and perform the work over two successive weekends: March 23-25 and March 30-April 1. 2. Public notification will be provided by the combined efforts of Hennepin County, Metropolitan Council, and the City. 3. Traffic restrictions will be imposed during the work periods as described above, based upon the current traffic control plan provided by Met Council. However, the plan may be subject to modification, pending final permit approvals by Hennepin County and Mn/DOT. In simple terms, crossing Excelsior Boulevard from north to south (or vice versa) will not be possible between Alabama Avenue and Park Nicollet Boulevard. Prepared by: Scott Brink, City Engineer Reviewed by: Mike Rardin, Director of Public Works Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager