HomeMy WebLinkAbout2019/10/07 - ADMIN - Minutes - City Council - Regular Official minutes
City council meeting
St. Louis Park, Minnesota
Oct. 7, 2019
1. Call to order
Mayor Spano called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
Councilmembers present: Mayor Jake Spano, Tim Brausen, Steve Hallfin, Rachel Harris , Anne
Mavity, Thom Miller, and Margaret Rog.
Councilmembers absent: None.
Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Harmening), City Attorney (Mr. Mattick), CFO (Mr. Simon),
Engineering Director (Ms. Heiser), Finance Manager (Mr. Ebensteiner), Senior Engineering
Project Manager (Mr. Sullivan), Associate Planner (Ms. Kramer), Sr. Management Analyst (Ms.
Solano), and Recording Secretary (Ms. Pappas).
Guests: Members of the St. Louis Park Police Force; city residents
1a. Pledge of allegiance
1b. Roll call
2. Presentations
2a. Police officer oath of office
Chief Harcey introduced new officer Maggie Wahlstrom. Officer Wahlstrom currently
serves as a First Lieutenant in the United Stated Army Reserves and was hired as a St.
Louis Park police officer on May 6, 2019. Chief Harcey noted she successfully completed
Police Officer training on October 4, 2019, adding Officer Wahlstrom has sound morals,
principles, and integrity -- and is well prepared to take on the duties of police officer in
St. Louis Park.
Ms. Solano administered the oath of office, and Officer Wahlstrom’s grandmother
pinned her badge on.
Councilmember Rog stated she was recently on a ride along with the police and saw
Officer Wahlstrom in action, adding she will make a great officer.
Mayor Spano congratulated Officer Wahlstrom on behalf of the council.
3. Approval of minutes
3a. City council meeting minutes of Sept, 3, 2019
It was moved by Councilmember Miller seconded by Councilmember Rog, to approve the
Sept. 3, 2019 meeting minutes as presented.
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The motion passed 7-0.
3b. City council meeting minutes of Sept. 16, 2019
Councilmember Rog noted on page 4, item 3b, 8th paragraph, it should read, “….clear
gov page on city’s website is interesting noting folks can enter in their own tax bill and
see how taxes are being utilized in city.”
In the same paragraph, it should read, “She stated it is not about if our staff provides a
high level of service, or whether she trusts staff. But beyond the 2-3% increase tied to
cost of living, she wants to know more about exactly what residents are getting for the
5.61% increase.”
Councilmember Rog continued, on page 6, it should read, paragraph 2, “Councilmember
Rog stated she was intrigued by Councilmember Harris’ idea that paying taxes is like
paying membership dues. She noted though that about 60% of visitors to the nature
center are from outside SLP so taxpayers are in effect subsidizing their membership.”
Councilmember Miller noted on Page 4, 5th paragraph, it should read, “Councilmember
Miller stated he will not support the preliminary levy this evening, and it is his 4th year
running he will not support the increase. He stated the general levy is not nearly focused
enough on our strategic priorities. He added some parts of the budget are focused on
strategic priorities, such as the additional salaries for race equity inclusion staff, and for
sustainability staff. However, there are other parts of the budget that are not as focused
on the strategic priorities as they should be.”
It was moved by Councilmember Rog, seconded by Councilmember Miller, to approve the
September 16, 2019, meeting minutes as amended.
The motion passed 7-0.
4. Approval of agenda and items on consent calendar
4a. Accept for filing city disbursement claims for the period of Aug. 24, through Sept.
27, 2019.
4b. Approve the second reading of Ordinance No. 2572-19, an ordinance repealing
and replacing city code Section 2-184 transitioning the telecommunications
advisory commission (TAC) to the community technology advisory commission.
4c. Authorize approval of partial assignment of the planning development contract
and an estoppel certificate for 1601 Utica Avenue South.
4d. Moved to 8b.
4e. Adopt Resolution No. 19-113 to recognize Assessing Technician Marty Fechner
for more than 32 years of service.
4f. Adopt Resolution No. 19-114 authorizing installation of permit parking
restrictions in front of 3224 Xenwood Ave.
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4g. Adopt Resolution No. 19-115 authorizing the installation of parking restrictions
on the west side of Alabama Avenue at Brookview Lane.
4h. Adopt Resolution No. 19-116 authorizing the use of Affordable Housing
Incentive Funds (AHIF) in St. Louis Park.
4i. Approve for filing Board of Zoning Appeals meeting minutes of Feb. 28, 2019.
4j. Approve for filing Fire Civil Service Commission meeting minutes of May 29,
2019.
Councilmember Brausen requested that consent calendar item 4d be removed and
placed on the Regular Agenda to 8b.
It was moved by Councilmember Rog, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to approve
the agenda and items listed on the consent calendar as amended, and to move consent
calendar item 4d to the regular agenda as item 8b; and to waive reading of all
resolutions and ordinances.
The motion passed 7-0.
5. Boards and commissions
5a. Appointment to Housing Authority Board
It was moved by Councilmember Rog, seconded by Councilmember Brausen to appoint
Paul Beck to the Housing Authority Board for the term ending on May 31, 2020.
The motion passed 7-0.
6. Public hearings
6a. Assessment of delinquent charges
Mr. Ebensteiner stated collection of these charges is vital to the financial stability of the
city’s utility systems and to reimburse the city for expenses incurred in providing
services.
Councilmember Brausen stated sending the notices by mail on green letterhead was
helpful and quite striking. Mr. Ebensteiner noted staff did this in order for residents to
differentiate the notice from a regular utility bill.
Councilmember Rog asked if any of the delinquent properties are multi-family. Mr.
Ebensteiner stated yes, some could be included in the list .
Mayor Spano opened the public hearing.
Ms. Mari Harris, 2638 Texas Ave., stated she is a tenant and property manager. She will
be paying her bill, adding her tenants have received an eviction notice for being behind
in their rent. She asked if the delinquent utility charges could be added to the back rent
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they owe her. Mr. Ebensteiner stated that would depend on Ms. Harris’ lease
agreement.
Mr. Mattick pointed out as long as Ms. Harris’ lease allows for repayment of utilities, she
can collect delinquent fees from the renters. He added the city will access any past due
amounts against her property, so she can collect the past due from her renters, in order
to pay the city the charges.
Mayor Spano closed the public hearing.
No further action is required by the council at this time and final action is scheduled for
Oct. 21, 2019.
6b. Monterey Drive/Beltline Blvd/36th Street bikeways
Mr. Sullivan presented the report. He stated the projects noted in the staff report are
included in the city’s capital improvement plan for 2020, 2021, and 2022 and total
$7,087,598. He also noted the council will take no action until the Oct. 21 meeting.
Mr. Sullivan entered resident feedback in an email he received from Richard and
Roxanne Lange.
Councilmember Mavity noted the proposed u-turn at Monterey Drive, and asked if this
will be designed with two lanes of traffic to turn into, similar to how it is designed on
Excelsior Boulevard.
Mr. Sullivan stated the u-turn area is the same size as on Excelsior, at 45 feet, adding in
that lane of traffic going north, there will also be a dedicated bike lane.
Councilmember Mavity added there is nothing indicated about traffic in and out of
Trader Joe’s at Park Commons. Mr. Sullivan stated there are no revisions at the Trader
Joe’s parking lot in the plan, and added most of the congestion being experienced at
that location was because of the inability to make a left turn onto Monterey Drive from
Park Commons. He noted with no left turn allowed there in the new plan, these backups
should be resolved.
Councilmember Harris asked for more detail about the roundabout and the reduction of
traffic lanes. Mr. Sullivan explained the roundabout will allow for reduction of traffic
lanes and ongoing vehicle movement every two or three seconds, entering and exiting
the roundabout. He stated traffic will flow better in the roundabout, while meeting the
city’s climate action goals, and relieving the bottle neck.
Councilmember Harris asked how the roundabout will facilitate walking with metered
traffic. Mr. Sullivan stated pedestrians will only cross 1-2 lanes in the roundabout vs.
crossing 3-4 lanes currently. The crossing distance will be shorter and pedestrian
activated beacons are able to be used, all leading to a safer pedestrian experience.
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Councilmember Brausen stated the city has been conducting traffic studies at this
corridor since 2014, particularly around Park Commons and Monterey Drive. Mr.
Sullivan concurred.
Councilmember Miller asked Mr. Sullivan if there are a number of u-turns expected with
the traffic modeling conducted. Mr. Sullivan stated he did not have that information,
but could get it from the traffic study scenarios that were conducted, adding that all cars
distribute differently.
Councilmember Rog asked how bicyclists will navigate in the roundabout to exit.
Mr. Sullivan stated there will be a number of different bike facilities that come together
on the east, north, and west sides, and with multiuse trails. He noted a competent
cyclist would stay in the roundabout, or otherwise take the off ramp and use the
multiuse trail.
Councilmember Rog asked if all pedestrian crossing beacons look the same. Mr. Sullivan
answered yes and the city would be using a federally approved model that is used in
Minnesota.
Councilmember Rog asked why 36th Street is so much more expensive than the other
parts of the project. Mr. Sullivan explained while most of the project is a retrofit, the
pavement needs at 36th Street, the rehabilitation, and utility work, will be more costly.
Mayor Spano opened the public hearing.
Ronald Olson, 4156 Alabama Ave., requested that staff and council look at the sidewalks
and areas between buildings on 36th Street and reconsider the use of bollards. He stated
he would like to see a raised facility near the Rec Center, and also anything to make it a
safer and friendlier bike ride would be appreciated.
Patty Carlson, 3801 Inglewood, stated she is representing several neighbors. She stated
she drives down Monterey Drive every day to Target, Byerly’s, Citizens Bank, and the
post office and having this reduced to one lane will allow for serious traffic bac k up,
especially because of the bike lanes. She has concerns over the Bridgewater project
adding 1,200 cars to the area, and also is frustrated with the u-turn being proposed at
Excelsior Boulevard and Monterey Drive. She asked how this will be efficient, especially
during rush hour traffic. She believed the roundabout will not be safe for pedestrians,
and that an island for crossing is much safer. Ms. Carlson added Mr. Sullivan has told her
twice it is better to get hit by a car at 20 mph vs. 30 mph, but s he is concerned for
children and seniors crossing in the roundabout. She stated Trader Joe’s will lose
business and with a bus stop also at that location, there are too many conflicts. She also
expressed concerns about the right turn onto 38 th Street, adding folks take their lives in
their own hands when they walk in this city. She stated she is very upset .
Charr Loving, 4525 Park Commons, stated she is new to the city and a condo owner. She
is going to represent her condo and will be paying close attention to this project. She
stated she shares the Trader Joe’s building with 84 condo units and now at Park
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Commons and Monterey Drive, there will only be a right turn allowed, which is a
definite concern for her and others. She said she is glad the council is studying this and
she is here to raise a voice of concern.
Linda Mill, 4730 Park Commons, stated she has concerns about a bike path going
through the park. Mr. Sullivan stated it is no longer going through the park and also it is
not part of this project. Ms. Mill stated she is relieved to hear that and hopes this bike
path does not come back, adding she has concerns for children and seniors who walk on
the path.
Claudia Johnston Madison, 3139 Joppa Ave., stated she has spent the last 5 years in this
area, and she likes the plan. She added this plan is good, it’s not perfect, but no plan is
perfect, adding she hopes the council will consider it . She also asked where electric
scooters fit in – and if they would be considered similar to pedestrians or bikes.
Louis Miranda, representing his business at 5618 W. 36th St., stated he lives in the Edina
Morningside area and bikes to work occasionally. He stated he has concerns about the
traffic and pedestrian crossings on 36th Street, and getting to businesses in the area with
no crosswalks. He stated it is currently dangerous for pedestrian crossing and he hopes
the council will make it safer with this new project.
Kenneth Stevens, 4730 Park Commons, stated he is also new to the area, has been
watching traffic, and has concerns. He asked what the number of cars is driving on Park
Commons and Monterey Drive each day. Mayor Spano stated staff will get back to him
with answers to his questions.
Mayor Spano closed the public hearing.
Councilmember Mavity stated the city has been working on this project for a long time
and she appreciates both staff and resident feedback. She asked staff to reconsider the
county’s request to eliminate the right turn on green arrow only at 38 th Street. She
stated that signal helps to reduce traffic on 38 th Street, and she would like staff and
council to think hard about that change.
Councilmember Mavity added she is aware of the concerns noted by residents about
the intersection of Excelsior Boulevard and Monterey Drive. She also has concerns about
drivers turning right from Excelsior Boulevard and Monterey Drive, looking left for
pedestrians or bikers, and moving in front of the other two lanes to see. She is also
concerned about safe sight lines there, adding it is currently a problem that needs to be
addressed.
Councilmember Mavity also has concerns about the u-turn on Monterey Drive, and is
skeptical that will function correctly. She added she is also concerned about safety there
for bikers and pedestrians, and long trucks that may try to make that u-turn as well. She
would like there to be clarity on maximum length of vehicle and guidance for the turn
provided within the ordinance.
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Councilmember Mavity stated she fully supports the roundabout on 36th Street and
understands the concerns. However, she added this will reduce traffic build up and
increase safety.
Councilmember Mavity noted with the light rail station on 36th Street, the area will have
much more car, pedestrian, and bike traffic. She shares concerns about having a more
protected bike facility there, noting that whatever is approved needs to be more
protective to pedestrians and bikers. This also in light of the fact this area will link to the
high school, Central Community Center, and three senior housing facilities.
Councilmember Rog stated she has received comments about concerns with lane
reductions, which is a significant change for folks. She stated whatever information can
be provided to help ease concerns for folks will be helpful. She noted, as a biker herself,
she is concerned about entrances and exits to businesses along this route, adding there
will need to be signage along the way. She asked also how bus lines will be impacted by
the changes, but noted she does see many of these changes improving the pedestrian
experience.
Councilmember Harris stated her friend who is a transportation planner and lives in the
city has conveyed enthusiasm for the new three lanes plan, and added with the city’s
living streets policy adopted, reducing asphalt in the community wherever possible is
desired. She agrees with the separation and height of bike lanes for safety purposes,
adding that more people will be biking, and this will be advantageous for those folks,
especially those who will be commuting.
Councilmember Hallfin thanked staff for the plan presented and the comments from the
public. He stated if residents have questions between now and Oct . 21, they should
reach out to city staff. He is in favor of the roundabout, adding he will make more
comments when the council takes action on this item.
Mayor Spano stated this project is a very large undertaking which attempts to connect
two county roads, two LRT stations, freight way crossings, the Rec Center, and
residential and county roads. He thanked staff for their hard work on this project.
6c. First reading of ordinance vacating a watermain easement
Jacquelyn Kramer, associate planner, presented the report.
Councilmember Brausen asked if the city is being requested by property owners to
vacate. Ms. Kramer stated no – the city is requesting the vacation.
Mayor Spano opened the public hearing.
Joe Israel, 2520 Kipling Ave., asked what happens after the easement is vacated. Ms.
Kramer stated there are no active utilities involved and no water moving through the
area, so basically this is a housekeeping issue. The easement has been there, but has not
been in use, there are buildings built over it, and it will not be used in the future.
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Mayor Spano closed the public hearing.
Councilmember Brausen stated he appreciates the city’s proactive stance on this and
vacating, especially as it is in Ward 4.
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Hallfin, to
approve first reading of an ordinance vacating a watermain easement and set the
second reading of ordinance for Oct. 21, 2019.
The motion passed 7-0.
6d. Public hearing to consider first reading of 2020 fee ordinance
Mr. Ebensteiner presented the report.
Councilmember Brausen noted the proposed fee increase for tobacco and vaping
products from $600 to $610, and asked Mr. Mattick since there is such a substantial
public health impact around this issue and presumed public safety costs, does the city
have any authority under state law to raise these fees substantially.
Councilmember Rog asked how the city’s fees compare with surrounding communities,
and also how fees are determined. Mr. Mattick stated fees are being scrutinized more in
Minnesota now, especially building permit fees. He noted St. Louis Park has been
proactive in how they adjust fees, with only modest fee increases, which looks
deliberative. However, he does not know how fees compare with surrounding
communities or how fees are determined. Mr. Ebensteiner stated staff looks at time
spent on the administration of each item and then determines the fees. He noted fees
are not a revenue source and should cover the cost of providing the service.
Councilmember Rog asked about snow ice and rubbish removal, noting there was an
increase there, and asked why. Mr. Ebensteiner stated he will have to get back to
council on that question. Mr. Harmening stated this fee increases as a charge to repeat
offenders and because staff inspects and then writes a citation each year there is a
violation, it takes extra time, and therefore an additional cost is charged .
Councilmember Harris asked if the snow removal fees reset for new home owners . Mr.
Harmening stated they do, and added council directed staff to stop snow removal
inspections a few years back.
Mayor Spano opened the public hearing.
There were no public comments.
Mayor Spano closed the public hearing.
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Councilmember Brausen stated he would like the council to discuss enforcement on
inspection, given the public health issue of tobacco use and vaping.
It was moved by Councilmember Harris, seconded by Councilmember Hallfin, to approve
first reading of an ordinance adopting fees for 2020 and set second reading for Oct . 21,
2019.
The motion passed 7-0
7. Requests, petitions, and communications from the public – none
8. Resolutions, ordinances, motions and discussion items
8a. Series 2019 B & C general obligation bonds. Resolution No. 19-117. Resolution
No. 19-118.
Mr. Simon presented the report. He noted with current interest rates lower, this is an
opportunity to refinance a few outstanding bonds.
Councilmember Hallfin congratulated staff in looking for savings such as this on a
regular basis, and helping to maintain the city’s AAA bond rating.
Councilmember Brausen agreed with Councilmember Hallfin, and congratulated staff by
acting on this and saving half a million in costs. He noted the city carrying long-term
debt is one of the ways major infrastructure costs are spread across many years . He
noted this is an equity financing mechanism that is responsible and good fiscal
management and he supports this.
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Mavity, to adopt
Resolution No. 19-117, providing for the sale of $16,270,000 general obligation bonds,
series 2019B and Resolution No. 19-118, providing for the sale of $2,230,000 taxable
general obligation housing improvement area (HIA) refunding bonds, series 2019C.
The motion passed 7-0.
8b. Authorizing the distribution of an environmental assessment worksheet (EAW)
for public review and comments. Resolution No. 19-119.
Councilmember Brausen asked to move this item to the regular agenda. He noted it
relates to Parkway residents, is a major redevelopment project effecting over 300 units,
and will require an EAW. He explained he wants the public to be aware of this and
hopes it will be an opportunity for folks to weigh in. Additionally, he wants this to be as
transparent as possible.
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Rog, to adopt
Resolution No. 19-119, authorizing the distribution of an environmental assessment
worksheet (EAW) for public review and comments.
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The motion passed 7-0.
9. Communications - none
10. Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:25 p.m.
______________________________________ ______________________________________
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Jake Spano, mayor
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