HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020/05/11 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - City Council - Study SessionAGENDA
MAY 11, 2020
All meetings of the St. Louis Park City Council will be conducted by telephone or other electronic
means starting March 30, 2020, and until further notice. This is in accordance with a local
emergency declaration issued the city council, in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19)
pandemic. Additionally, city facilities are closed to the public until May 18 in keeping with the
April 30, 2020, Executive Order 20-48 issued by Gov. Tim Walz extending the order directing
Minnesotans to Stay at Home until May 18.
Some or all members of the St. Louis Park City Council will participate in the May 11, 2020 city
council meeting by electronic device or telephone rather than by being personally present at
the city council's regular meeting place at 5005 Minnetonka Blvd.
Members of the public can monitor the council meeting by video and audio at
https://bit.ly/watchslpcouncil or by calling +1-312-535-8110 meeting number (access code):
359 770 50 for audio only. Cisco Webex will be used to conduct videoconference meetings of
the city council, with council members and staff participating from multiple locations.
6:30 p.m. - STUDY SESSION
Discussion items
1. 30 mins. COVID-19 pandemic update
2. 45 min. St. Louis Park Emergency Program (STEP) update
3. 60 min. Wooddale petition
4. 5 mins. Future study session agenda planning and prioritization
5 mins. Communications/updates (verbal)
Written reports
5. Annual small business resources update
During the COVID-19 pandemic, agendas will be posted on Fridays on the entrance doors to city hall and on the text
display on civic TV cable channel 17. The agenda and full packet are available after noon on Friday on the city’s website.
If you need special accommodations or have questions about the meeting, please call 952-924-2525.
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: May 11, 2020
Discussion item: 1
Executive summary
Title: COVID-19 pandemic update
Recommended action: **Due to the COVID-19 emergency declaration, this item is considered
essential business and is categorized Time-Sensitive**
•None at this time. The purpose of this item is to provide time for an update on the
COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on our organization and community.
Policy consideration: Does the city council need additional information related to this
matter?
Summary: Staff will provide an update to the city council on the current state of the
COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on St. Louis Park including:
•Update from city manager and fire chief
•Essential services update
o Police
o Fire
o Operations & Recreation
Financial or budget considerations: Additional information on the financial and budget impacts
of COVID-19 will provided to the council at a future date.
Strategic priority consideration: Not applicable.
Supporting documents: None
Prepared by: Maria Solano, senior management analyst
Reviewed by: Nancy Deno, deputy city manager
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: May 11, 2020
Discussion item: 2
Executive summary
Title: St. Louis Park Emergency Program (STEP) update
Recommended action: **Due to the COVID-19 emergency declaration, this item is considered
essential business and is categorized Time-Sensitive**
•None at this time. The purpose of this study session is to provide time for an update
from STEP.
Policy consideration: Does the city council need additional information from STEP?
Summary: The St. Louis Park Emergency Program (STEP) was founded in 1975 and is located
at 6812 West Lake St. The St. Louis Park Emergency Program’s (STEP) mission is to identify,
address and respond to the critical and emergency needs of residents in St. Louis Park. STEP
provides direct assistance and support services to residents of St. Louis Park, targeting
households with low incomes and those faced with a financial crisis.
STEP has been instrumental in helping residents during the COVID-19 pandemic. Executive
director, Derek Reise, will give an update on STEP activities during the pandemic and will
provide an overview of needs.
Financial or budget considerations: None at this time.
Strategic priority consideration: Not applicable.
Supporting documents: None
Prepared by: Maria Solano, senior management analyst
Reviewed by: Nancy Deno, deputy city manager
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: May 11, 2020
Discussion item: 3
Executive summary
Title: Wooddale petition
Recommended action: **Due to the COVID-19 emergency declaration, this item is considered
essential business and is categorized Time-Sensitive**
•No action at this time. If the council wishes to modify the approved layout, a resolution
incorporating the changes will be brought to council for approval at the June 1, 2020
council meeting.
Policy consideration: Does the council desire to modify the approved layout for the Wooddale
bikeway segment (between 44th Street and Morningside Road)?
Summary: The St. Louis Park City Council approved the preliminary layout for the southeast area
bikeway on March 2, 2020. This layout included a bikeway on 38th Street and a system of
bikeways that start in Wolfe Park, traverse along Park Commons Drive, south on Quentin Avenue
and end at the intersection of Princeton Avenue and 42 ½ Street. These segments were
approved in resolution 20-057. A separate resolution (20-058) was approved for the segment of
Wooddale Avenue from 42 ½ Street to 44th Street.
On April 6, the city council received a citizen petition requesting a modification of the approved
layout, as identified in resolution 20-058. The request is to eliminate the parking bays on
Wooddale Avenue between 44th Street and Morningside Road. This request would result in:
•No changes to any other segment of the project.
•No parking bays would be installed, preserving grass boulevards for this segment.
•All trees on this segment of the project would be preserved, reducing the total number
of trees removed from 10 to 3 for the project.
•Lower project costs by approximately $75,000.
•Parking would continue to be eliminated on the west side of the street. There would be
no available on-street parking for this street segment.
•No changes to the bikeway type. Bike lanes would still be installed as approved.
Staff sent the attached letter to properties along the entire bikeway route, to the
neighborhood associations and to individuals who spoke at the public hearing. Sixteen
comments were received as a result of this outreach and are included in this report.
Financial or budget considerations: This project is funding using General Obligation bonds and
is in the current CIP. Modifying the approved layout to eliminate the parking bays as requested
will reduce the cost to construct this segment from approximately $200,000 to $125,000.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options
for people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably.
Supporting documents: Resolution 20-058
Petition
Community letter
Community feedback
Prepared by: Jack Sullivan, senior engineering project manager
Reviewed by: Debra Heiser, engineering director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
Resolution No. 20-058
Resolution accepting the project report, establishing improvement project no.
4018-2000, approving the staff recommended layout for the project and
authorizing the design of final plans
Whereas, the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park has received a report from the
Project Engineer related to the Southeast Bikeway Improvements – Project No. 4018-2000; and,
Whereas, the project report consists of bikeways on 38th Street, Park Commons Drive,
Quentin Avenue, Princeton Avenue, 42nd 1/2 Street, Wooddale Avenue, and in Wolfe Park;
and,
Whereas, the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota is committed to providing a variety of
options for people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely, and reliably.
Now therefore be it resolved by the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota,
that:
1.The project report regarding Project No. 4018-2000 Southeast Bikeway
Improvements is hereby accepted.
2.Such improvements as proposed are necessary, cost effective, and feasible as
detailed in the project report.
3.The following bikeway segments are established and ordered for final plans as
detailed on Table A.
Table A:
Number Road segment description Bikeway
classification
Parking changes
7 Wooddale Avenue from 42nd
1/2 Street to 44th Street
Conventional bike
lanes
Mainline on-street parking
restricted. Parking bays
provided with 13 spaces.
Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the City Council March 2, 2020
Thomas K. Harmening, city manager Jake Spano, mayor
Attest:
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 3)
Title: Wooddale petition Page 2
Petition >.see2 g r » r n ms·mm@mm /®re g%
% «,
Proposal: The undersigned hereby request the city council to approve a modification to the
approved plans for the southeast bikeway pro ject, specifically for the segment of Wood dale
Avenue from 44th Street to Morningside Road. We request the city council to eliminate the
proposed parking bays and the removal of boulevard trees from the construction plans on this
segment. It is understood that the approved bike lanes on this segm ent will remain as part of
the construction plans. It is also understood that parking will be restricted on both sides of
W ooddale Avenue on this segment.
A DDRESS Agree with
petition
proposal?
YES NO
PR INT NAM E SIGNATURE
1 4305 Wooddale Ave
2 4315 Wooddale Ave
3 4316 Wooddale Ave
4 4320 Wooddale Ave
5 4325 Wooddale Ave
6 4326 Wooddale Ave
{ 7 4329 Wooddale Ave
8 4330 Wooddale Ave
9 4333 Wooddale Ave
10 4335 Wooddale Ave
11 4339 Wooddale Ave
12 4340 Wooddale Ave
13 4341 Wooddale Ave
14 4346 Wooddale Ave
15 4350 Wooddale Ave
16 4354 Wooddale Ave
17 4360 Wooddale Ave
18 4370 Wooddale Ave
19 4371 Wooddale Ave
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 3)
Title: Wooddale petition Page 3
ADDRESS Agree with PRINT NAME SIGNATURE
petition
pro posal?
YES NO
20 4375 Wooddale Ave
21 4377 Wooddale Ave
22 4379 Wooddale Ave
" 23 4380 Wooddale Ave
24 4381 Wooddale Ave
25 4382 Wooddale Ave
26 4383 Wooddale Ave
27 4385 Wooddale Ave
28 4386 Wooddale Ave
29 4324 43rd 1/2 St
30 4325 43rd 1/2 St
31 4328 43rd 1/2 St e
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 3)
Title: Wooddale petition Page 4
St. Louis Park Engineering Department • 5005 Minnetonka Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416
www.stlouispark.org • Phone: 952.924.2656 • Fax: 952.924.2662 • TTY: 952.924.2518
April 14, 2020
RE: Feedback requested
Dear community member:
On March 2, 2020, the St. Louis Park City Council approved the preliminary layout for the southeast
area bikeway. Additional information for this project can be found on the Connect the Park website at
www.stlouispark.org/connect-the-park under “Current Connect the Park projects.”
On April 6, the city council received a citizen petition requesting a modification of the approved project
layout. The request is to eliminate the parking bays on Wooddale Avenue between 44th Street and
Morningside Road. This request would:
•Reduce the number of trees removed.
•Eliminate on-street parking on both sides of the street for this segment.
•Result in no changes to the bikeway type. Bike lanes would still be installed as part of the
project.
•Lower project costs.
•Cause no change to any other segment of the project.
Since this proposed modification represents a change from what was previously approved, we invite
community members to provide the city council with feedback prior to action on the request.
The city council is tentatively scheduled to discuss the petition at its study session on Monday, May
11, at 6:30 p.m. No formal action will be taken at this meeting. Feedback may be sent by email to
info@stlouispark.org or mailed to Engineering Department, City of St. Louis Park, 5005 Minnetonka
Blvd., St. Louis Park, MN 55416. Comments received by 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 5, will be included in the
report to the city council. As this is a study session and not a public hearing, no public comment will be
taken at this meeting.
Note that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the council is meeting by videoconference through the end of
April; this may be extended into May depending on circumstances. Information on how to watch
videoconference meetings is at http://bit.ly/slpccagendas.
Sincerely,
Tom Harmening
City manager
c: Jack Sullivan, senior engineering project manager
Debra Heiser, engineering director
Anne Mavity, ward 2 councilmember
Wolfe Park, Minikahda Vista, and Browndale neighborhood associations
Attachment: segment map
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 3)
Title: Wooddale petition Page 5
GWX
?A@
GWX
3
17
LYNNAVESEXCEL
SI
O
R
B
L
V
D
MORNINGSIDE RD NATCHEZAVESQUENTINAVESPRINCETONAVESKIPLINGAVESWOODD
A
L
E
A
V
EPARK CENTER BLVDGRAND WAYPARKNICOLLETB LVD
W O LFE PKW Y41ST S
T
W
COOLIDGEAVESBROWNDALEAVESBROOKAVESMACKEYAVESUTICAAVESJOPPA AVE S
42 1/2 ST W
PARK C
O
M
M
O
N
S
D
R
43 1/2 S T W GLENHURSTAVES42ND ST W
PARK C
O
M
M
O
N
S
D
R
EXCELSIORBLVDBROWNDALEAVESEXCEL
SI
O
R
B
L
V
D
OTTAWAAVES42ND ST WPRINCETONAVESVALLAC
H
E
R
A
V
E
40TH ST W
37TH ST W
39TH ST W
38TH ST W
36 1/2 ST W
39TH S
T
W
42N D S T W
44TH ST WGLEN PLQUENTINAVESINGLEWOODAVESRALEI
GHAVESSALEMAVESMONTEREYAVESRALEI
GHAVESHUNTINGTONAVESFRANCEAVESOTTAWAAVESDARTAVESVERNONAVESOTTAWAAVESTOLEDO AVE SSALEMAVESVERNONAVES40TH L
N
W
PARK C E N T E R B L V D
0 500 1,000250
Feet ´
Southeast Bikeway Improvements
Legend
Bikeways
Existing Sidewalks
Existing Trails
City Limits
Petition Area
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 3)
Title: Wooddale petition Page 6
1
Ben Manibog Jr
From:Marina Lee
Sent:Monday, April 20, 2020 8:12 AM
To:Ben Manibog Jr
Subject:FW: Southeast bikeway study session
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
Marina Lee (she/her/hers)
Engineering Office Assistant | City of St. Louis Park
5005 Minnetonka Blvd, St. Louis Park, MN 55416
Office: 952‐924‐2686
www.stlouispark.org
Experience LIFE in the Park.
‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐
From: Info@stlouispark.org <info@stlouispark.org>
Sent: Monday, April 20, 2020 8:10 AM
To: Marina Lee <mlee@stlouispark.org>; SLP MSC Support Staff <pworks@stlouispark.org>
Subject: FW: Southeast bikeway study session
‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐
From: Eric Curran‐Bakken
Sent: Saturday, April 18, 2020 7:30 AM
To: Info@stlouispark.org
Subject: Southeast bikeway study session
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
My wife and I live on the section of Wooddale with the proposed changes of no parking bays. We signed the petition and
fully support this change from 44th street to Morningside.
Eric T. Curran‐Bakken
Sent from my iPad
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 3)
Title: Wooddale petition Page 7
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 3)
Title: Wooddale petition Page 8
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 3)
Title: Wooddale petition Page 9
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 3)
Title: Wooddale petition Page 10
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 3)
Title: Wooddale petition Page 11
Ben Manibog Jr
From:Info@stlouispark.org
Sent:Monday, April 20, 2020 10:07 AM
To:Ben Manibog Jr
Subject:FW: Southeast Bikeway
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
From: Ronald Hobson
Sent: Monday, April 20, 2020 9:55 AM
To: Info@stlouispark.org
Subject: Southeast Bikeway
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the
sender and know the content is safe.
Hello All,
If made in good faith, the current neighborhood request is desirable. .Removing the parking bays simplifies the
project, reduces costs and saves several mature trees. All of which are desirable outcomes.
However, I'm skeptical - it feels like it's a trap to me. These feelings stem from the neighborhood's ardent
opposition to the project over the past 24 months. The parking bays in the approved design are the result of
neighborhood feedback (neighborhood accommodation). Next, the neighborhood claimed, this accommodation
was not good enough as they needed to retain all 70+ parking spaces. Now they have come back stating that no
parking spaces are needed - there is plenty of parking available in driveways and side streets. The
discrepancy between needing 70+ parking space and none is feeding my skepticism.
In addition, the ardent opposition prevented thoughtful discussion and refinement of other details of the
design. In particular, I've personally experienced 2 people/car conflicts on the approved route - in both cases,
my dog and I were in the intersection and the driver needed to slam on their brakes.. One at the Excelsior Ave
crossing and the other at the 42nd-1/2 crossing. Both were predawn where signals/signs were ignored (walk-
light at Excelsior and yield sign at 42nd-1/2). Lastly, it would be nice for the walk-light at the Excelsior
crossing to have signal priority at times during the day.
Nevertheless, having an approved design with parking bays does not preclude, in my mind, changing the
implementation schedule. Plus, this would allow for a bit of trial-and-error to validate whether parking bays are
needed..
My recommendation is to keep the approved design and proceed to implement bike lanes in 2020 without the
parking bays. Then in 2021 implement the parking bays if needed.
Regards,
Ron Hobson
4156 Alabama Ave S
SLP, MN
1
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 3)
Title: Wooddale petition Page 12
1
Ben Manibog Jr
From:Info@stlouispark.org
Sent:Tuesday, April 21, 2020 8:09 AM
To:Ben Manibog Jr
Subject:FW: 2020 Study Session
From: Marcia Wilkinson
Sent: Monday, April 20, 2020 7:31 PM
To: Info@stlouispark.org
Subject: 2020 Study Session
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the
sender and know the content is safe.
I am a resident of the Wooddale "South" group. I am very supportive of not adding parking bays
and not cutting down trees. Neighbors can work together to fulfill our parking needs.
The new plan preserves the boulevards and green space, does not add more concrete and reduces
runoff by as much as 45,000 gallons.
The new plan lowers the project cost by around $100,000,
thereby saving taxpayer money, especialy dire in today's fiscal needs.
The new plan leaves the bikeway intact as designed and therefore meets the biking goals of the
city.
Respectfully submitted ,
Marcia Wilkinson,
SLP resident for 28 years
--
Please note my new e-mail address. Please update your contacts:
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 3)
Title: Wooddale petition Page 13
1
Ben Manibog Jr
From:Info@stlouispark.org
Sent:Tuesday, April 21, 2020 8:08 AM
To:Ben Manibog Jr
Subject:FW: Modification to Wooddale Bike Path
‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐
From: Carrie Steenlage
Sent: Monday, April 20, 2020 9:09 PM
To: Info@stlouispark.org
Cc: Barak Steenlage
Subject: Modification to Wooddale Bike Path
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Good evening,
I live on Quentin Avenue, along the same path as the proposed Wooddale bike lane. I fully support any changes made to
the previously approved plan that would eliminate or reduce removal of mature trees along Wooddale Avenue. My
family and I were very sad and concerned to see that trees would be removed to make way for a bike path on a street
that seems to have no need for an additional bike lane.
Please feel free to contact me if any clarification or additional information is needed.
Thank you,
Carrie Steenlage
Sent from my iPhone
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 3)
Title: Wooddale petition Page 14
1
Ben Manibog Jr
From:Info@stlouispark.org
Sent:Tuesday, April 21, 2020 8:10 AM
To:Ben Manibog Jr
Subject:FW: Wooddale
From: dave l
Sent: Monday, April 20, 2020 6:49 PM
To: Info@stlouispark.org
Subject: Wooddale
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the
sender and know the content is safe.
As a 32 year resident on Dart Avenue and one who uses Wooddale as a bicyclist quite frequently I fully support
the lack of parking bays and the retention of the trees that the south block residences support.
Dave luger
4374 Dart ave
--
Best regards,
Dave Luger
*FYI to all, PLEASE practice safe e-mailing, use Bcc when adding my address to a group mail.
Thank you.
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 3)
Title: Wooddale petition Page 15
1
Ben Manibog Jr
From:Info@stlouispark.org
Sent:Tuesday, April 21, 2020 3:08 PM
To:Ben Manibog Jr
Subject:FW: Compromise on Wooddale Avenue- Save the trees!
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Flagged
From: Meredith Homans
Sent: Tuesday, April 21, 2020 3:05 PM
To: Info@stlouispark.org
Cc: David Homans
Subject: Compromise on Wooddale Avenue‐ Save the trees!
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the
sender and know the content is safe.
I am 100% in favor of saving the trees on the south block of Wooddale- Morningside to 44th Street- and think
this is a wonderful effort to make the bike lane a win for everyone. I live at 4366 Dart, and would certainly be
happy to have overflow parking, should the need arise, on our street. Thank you for considering this option.
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 3)
Title: Wooddale petition Page 16
1
Ben Manibog Jr
From:Info@stlouispark.org
Sent:Friday, April 24, 2020 8:02 AM
To:Ben Manibog Jr
Subject:FW: Bike path feedback
From: Ryan Forsberg
Sent: Wednesday, April 22, 2020 11:22 AM
To: Info@stlouispark.org
Subject: Bike path feedback
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the
sender and know the content is safe.
First I'm glad you scaled back the scope to save the trees. At some point you may even realize Sh-arrows would
have been sufficient.
Third I'm so glad you named this new project after a failed sidewalk project from years past. If you have any
questions come on down to Browndale Ave, and walk with me to the park. One of four sides of the street has
unbroken sidewalks to the park! Here is to 25% completion! Of course Brook, Toledo and Coolidge are still at a
0% percent sidewalk state. Good job!
Here
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 3)
Title: Wooddale petition Page 17
1
Ben Manibog Jr
From:Info@stlouispark.org
Sent:Tuesday, April 21, 2020 1:50 PM
To:Ben Manibog Jr
Subject:FW: SE Bikeway - Wooddale Parking Bays Petition
Tami Strohmeyer
Customer Service Representative | City of St. Louis Park
5005 Minnetonka Blvd, St. Louis Park, MN 55416
Office: 952.928.1360
www.stlouispark.org
Experience LIFE in the Park.
From: Marie Baudek
Sent: Tuesday, April 21, 2020 1:23 PM
To: Info@stlouispark.org
Subject: SE Bikeway ‐ Wooddale Parking Bays Petition
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the
sender and know the content is safe.
Dear Mayor and City Council Members:
We are writing to let you know that we are strongly in favor of the citizen petition requesting a modification of the
approved project layout for the SE Bikeway from Morningside to 44th St. for the following reasons. The modified layout
for this block:
1.Retains at least 7 trees for ecological and aesthetic reasons.
2. Preserves the boulevards and green space, does not add more concrete and reduces runoff by as much as 45,000
gallons.
3. Lowers the project cost by around $100,000, thereby saving taxpayer money.
4. Leaves the bikeway intact as designed and therefore meets the biking goals of the city.
We believe this is a win‐win for the city of St. Louis Park taxpayers, for bikers, and for the St. Louis Park residents who
live on this block. The modified project maintains the historic beauty of our neighborhood, helps the environment, saves
taxpayers a great deal of money, and provides a designated lane for bikers.
Please vote yes for this proposal.
Respectfully,
Marie and Matt Baudek
4360 Wooddale Ave.
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 3)
Title: Wooddale petition Page 18
1
Ben Manibog Jr
From:Ben Manibog Jr
Sent:Friday, May 1, 2020 12:26 PM
To:Ben Manibog Jr
Subject:FW: Wooddale Ave Traffic
From: Chauncey ( Chan) Zuber
Sent: Saturday, April 25, 2020 3:26 PM
To: Info@stlouispark.org
Subject: Wooddale Ave Traffic
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the
sender and know the content is safe.
Since 1980, we have lived at 4325 Wooddale Ave South. Currently, due to the increase in vehicle traffic and the speed of
the vehicles, we back into our driveway. This allows us to safely observe vehicles and bicyclists before pulling onto
Wooddale Ave. As we prepare to exit our driveway, the vehicles in the parking bays will obstruct our view of oncoming
vehicles and bicyclists on Wooddale Ave. This is a dangerous situation increasing accidents and injuries either by vehicle
accidents or bicyclists hitting car doors as the car doors are opened. Wooddale is too narrow for two car lanes two bike
lanes and street parking either on the street or in parking bays. For safety reasons, there should be no parking on
Wooddale Ave between 44th street and Morningside Road. The driveways in this area are long enough for residents to
park three or more cars in their driveways. Omitting parking bays and tree removal expenditures will allow allotted
funds saved to be applied to other St. Louis Park road improvements.
Sincerely
Nancy and Chauncey Zuber
4325 Wooddale Ave. South
St. Louis Park, Minnesota 55424
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 3)
Title: Wooddale petition Page 19
1
Ben Manibog Jr
From:Info@stlouispark.org
Sent:Friday, May 1, 2020 9:06 AM
To:Ben Manibog Jr
Subject:FW: Support for modification to Wooddale bikeway project
Good morning Ben,
Should I still be responding to these, not sure when the cutoff date is?
Thank you,
Tami Strohmeyer
Customer Service Representative | City of St. Louis Park
5005 Minnetonka Blvd, St. Louis Park, MN 55416
Office: 952.928.1360
www.stlouispark.org
Experience LIFE in the Park.
‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐
From: Monica Brazelton
Sent: Wednesday, April 29, 2020 6:15 PM
To: Info@stlouispark.org
Subject: Support for modification to Wooddale bikeway project
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Hello,
I live in St Louis Park and am VERY excited about the upcoming bikeway on Wooddale Avenue. I think grade‐separated
bikeways are fantastic and that SLP should install as many of them as possible. I actually considered moving to Richfield
when they installed the 66th Street bikeway!
I think the change proposed to the Wooddale bikeway project is great ‐ taking out parking and saving those trees will
make Wooddale even better for the community.
Thank you for moving forward with this project and please continue to install more grade‐separated bikeways in SLP!
Monica Morris
Wolfe Park neighborhood
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 3)
Title: Wooddale petition Page 20
1
Ben Manibog Jr
From:Ben Manibog Jr
Sent:Tuesday, May 5, 2020 8:33 AM
To:Ben Manibog Jr
Subject:Letter to Council Members regarding Petition
Ben A. Manibog Jr. (he/him/his)
transportation engineer | City of St. Louis Park
5005 Minnetonka Blvd, St. Louis Park, MN 55416
Office: 952‐924‐2669
www.stlouispark.org
Experience LIFE in the Park.
Respond now to the census at 2020census.gov. It is easy, safe and important!
‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐
From: Info@stlouispark.org <info@stlouispark.org>
Sent: Monday, May 4, 2020 8:51 AM
To: Ben Manibog Jr <bmanibog@stlouispark.org>
Subject: FW: Letter to Council Members regarding Petition by Wooddale residents to preserve trees and eliminate
parking bays between Morningside Rd and 44th St.
‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐
From: Marianne Herrmann
Sent: Monday, May 4, 2020 12:00 AM
To: Info@stlouispark.org
Subject: Letter to Council Members regarding Petition by Wooddale residents to preserve trees and eliminate parking
bays between Morningside Rd and 44th St.
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Dear City Council Members:
I am writing in support of the plan for Wooddale Avenue (between Morningside Road and 44th Street) that would
preserve the trees and eliminate parking bays. We residents have signed a petition that indicates 100% support for this
plan (the plan outlined in our petition was actually the engineering department’s original concept). While residents
wanted to preserve the existing on‐street parking, we never requested the construction of parking bays that would
eliminate 9‐12 trees and create an unfavorable environmental risk to our street. We therefore came to a decision to
sacrifice all of our parking in favor of supporting the environment.
In my email correspondence with CM Mavity on 3‐7‐20, she wrote that she would be strongly inclined to support such a
proposal should residents garner 100% approval of the plan to eliminate parking bays and preserve trees between
Morningside and 44th. She stated that she would then explore with council colleagues how plans might be revised.
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 3)
Title: Wooddale petition Page 21
2
Residents were able to achieve this goal of receiving 100% approval, so we are anticipating CM Mavity’s support on this
issue, as she stated.
A vote to support this petition would not be a reversal of the Council vote taken on March 2, 2020; rather, it would be
an amendment to the approved plan that retains the designated bike lane, yet preserves the trees and eliminates the
parking bays. It is a change for the better in all respects and Council will not have to reverse its decision in any
meaningful way, as the designated bike lane remains unchanged.
Finally, as our city faces dire economic times, this will be a savings of over $100,000 to our city—a significant sum that
could go towards alleviating the hardship faced by many SLP residents as they contend with the fallout resulting from
the coronavirus epidemic.
I urge council members to support our petition, as it will greatly benefit the environment and likely aid SLP residents
during these difficult economic times.
Sincerely,
Marianne Herrmann
4386 Wooddale Ave. S.
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 3)
Title: Wooddale petition Page 22
1
Ben Manibog Jr
From:Info@stlouispark.org
Sent:Tuesday, May 5, 2020 9:17 AM
To:Ben Manibog Jr
Subject:FW: Southeast area bikeway - Apr 6 petition feedback
From: Bryan Schmidt
Sent: Tuesday, May 5, 2020 9:01 AM
To: Info@stlouispark.org
Subject: Southeast area bikeway ‐ Apr 6 petition feedback
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the
sender and know the content is safe.
This is in response to the citizen petition to eliminate the parking bays on the Wooddale Ave section
of the bikeway between 44th street and Morningside road.
While I am glad that the neighbors acknowledge that their need for on street parking is actually
optional and not essential I am afraid that unless the bike lane is designated with more than paint
they will just choose to park there anyway forcing the bicyclists into the roadway.
I have no issues with their petition other than I would like to see the cost savings applied to making
the bike lanes into a truly protected and separated with a concrete curb between the bike lane and
the auto traffic lane. This level of separation will also make it more difficult to cars to just park in the
bike lane (as they do frequently in Minneapolis bike lanes) and risk the low probability of parking
enforcement. Design the system where enforcement is not needed, the concrete curb enforces the
bike lane.
Thank you,
Bryan Schmidt
4301 Branson Street, Edina
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 3)
Title: Wooddale petition Page 23
Ben Manibog Jr
From:
Sent:
To:
Tami Strohmeyer
Tuesday, May 5, 2020 9:16 AM
Ben Manibog Jr
Subject: FW: Southwest Bike Project -plan changes to eliminate on-street parking in response to resident
petition
Follow Up Flag:
Flag Status:
From: Marc Berg
Follow up
Flagged
Sent: Monday, May 4, 2020 8:30 PM
To: lnfo@stlouispark.org
Subject: Southwest Bi ke Project -plan changes to eliminate on-street parking in response to resident petition
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the
sender and know the content is safe.
Greetings,
I am submitting this comment at the request of Ben Manibog of the Engineering Department.
Ben has informed me that the residents of Wooddale Avenue between Morningside and 44th have submitted a petition
asking that the curb bump-outs be eliminated from the previously-approved plan for this segment. I have seen the
petition, and Ben's explanation of the change, and believe that this is a positive development for this project, and I
therefore urge the city to accept this amendment to the plan.
Eliminating the bump-outs will save trees, green space, project cost, and construction-related disruption to the
residents. I also understand that via this petition the residents support the idea of keeping bike lanes on this section of
Wooddale while eliminating on-street parking. If the immediately-impacted residents are withdrawing their objections
to the loss of on-street parking, we should welcome this as a sensible compromise among the various alternatives. I
have noted that most or all of the houses on this stretch of Wooddale have 2-car garages as well as relatively deep
driveways; this should meet most parking needs most of the time. The presence of bike lanes should have a calming
effect on traffic, which is something everyone seems to want. Hopefully we will have a satisfactory resolution for all
involved at this time. Marc M. Berg I Attorney J.Selmer Law, P.A.
500 Washington Avenue South
Suite 2010
olis, MN 55415
1 Website:
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 3)
Title: Wooddale petition Page 24
1
Ben Manibog Jr
From:Info@stlouispark.org
Sent:Wednesday, May 6, 2020 8:10 AM
To:Ben Manibog Jr
Subject:FW: Wooddale Bikeway
‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐
From: Dave Carlson [
Sent: Tuesday, May 5, 2020 3:28 PM
To: Info@stlouispark.org
Subject: Wooddale Bikeway
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
I support the change to the Connect the Park project on Wooddale, eliminating the proposed parking bays and keeping
the standard bike lane.
I applaud the residents of Wooddale for relinquishing parking bays to keep trees and green space. This move will also
save the city construction funds and decrease disruption during the construction period. Most importantly, the city will
have a valuable bike route connection between the Excelsior‐Grand area and the city of Edina.
Dave Carlson
St. Louis Park, Minnesota
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 3)
Title: Wooddale petition Page 25
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: May 11, 2020
Discussion item: 4
Executive summary
Title: Future study session agenda planning and prioritization
Recommended action: The city council and city manager to set the agenda for the regularly
scheduled study session on May 26, 2020.
Policy consideration: Not applicable.
Summary: This report summarizes the proposed agenda for the regularly scheduled study session
on May 26, 2020.
Also attached to this report is:
- Study session discussion topics and timeline
Financial or budget considerations: Not applicable.
Strategic priority consideration: Not applicable.
Supporting documents: Tentative agenda – May 26, 2020
Study session discussion topics and timeline
Prepared by: Debbie Fischer, administrative services office assistant
Reviewed by: Maria Solano, senior management analyst
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 4) Page 2
Title: Future study session agenda planning and prioritization
May 26, 2020.
6:30 p.m. Study session - To be held via videoconference
Tentative discussion items
1.2021 Budget – Administrative services (60 minutes)
Staff will review the general outline, calendar and process for 2021 budget preparations.
The discussion is to connect with council on expectations for 2021, which will allow staff to
move forward in budget preparation and recommendations for all operations.
**Due to the COVID-19 emergency declaration, this item is considered essential business and is
Categorized as Time-Sensitive**
2.Climate action in time of COVID – Building & Energy (60 minutes)
Sustainability staff will discuss a revised Climate Action Work Plan in the community for the
next 12 months in adapting to the COVID-19 pandemic and business challenges. Staff will also
present research and ask policy clarification on how the city will consider Renewable Energy
Credits in measuring carbon reduction when developing programs.
**Due to the COVID-19 emergency declaration, this item is considered essential business and is
Categorized as Time-Sensitive**
3.Future study session agenda planning – Administrative services (5 minutes)
Communications/meeting check-in – Administrative services (5 minutes)
Time for communications between staff and council will be set aside on every study session
agenda for the purposes of information sharing.
Written reports
4.PLACE redevelopment contract update
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 4) Page 3
Title: Future study session agenda planning and prioritization
Study session discussion topics and timeline
Priority Discussion topic Comments Timeline
1
Prioritizing transit options thru
investments, and engineering
and operations decisions
SS discussion 10/21/19. Next steps: staff reach out to
Metro Transit, bench company, and Met Council rep.
Update – staff met with Metro Transit Dec., 2019
In process
2 Climate crisis SS discussion re: climate action in time of COVID May 26, 2020
3 Discuss public process
expectations and outcomes
Staff is working on the approach for undertaking this
discussion. TBD
4
Revisit housing setback, FRA, &
more to maintain and create
more affordable housing
TBD
5 Home-based businesses TBD
6 Public forums at council mtgs 9/23/19 SS. Staff is doing research of other cities. TBD
7 STEP discussion: facilities Discussed on 1/14/19; city, STEP & school toured
Central Community Ctr and continuing discussions TBD
8 Community and neighborhood
sidewalk designations TBD
9
Remove mint & menthol
exemption from existing
flavored tobacco policy
TBD
10
Easy access to nature, across
city, starting w/ low-income
neighborhoods
TBD
11 Conversion therapy ban TBD
12 Changes to sign ordinance TBD
13 WHNC Access Fund *On hold pending direction from school district.*On hold
SEED’s community greenhouse
/resilient cities initiative
On hold until Food Access and Security study is
complete, and recommendations have been made. March 9, 2020
Revitalization of Walker Lake
area
Part of preserving Walker building reports: 8/28/17,
9/25/17, 1/22/18, design study 2/12/18, update
4/23/18, design study updates 8/27/18; SS report
2/11/19; SS discussion 5/28/19, planning commission
to review ordinances for implementation Qtr. 3 & 4
2019; parking ord. in process of council approval;
construction of phase 1 completed; Planning for 2020
phase 2 construction work underway
In process
Crime free ordinance/
affordable housing strategies
Discussed 5/14/18. 1st reading housing trust fund
10/1/18; Other affordable housing strategies/Crime
Free Ordinance – Nov/Dec, 12/10 & 12/17/18 &
1/14/19 council discussion; Certain provisions of crime
free ord. suspended; Work group formed; CFO work
group discussed on 3/25/19; Work group had 1st mtg
in May, two meetings in June, one in July and August.
Meetings on Sept 26, Oct 9, Oct 30, Nov 13, Dec 4.
June 8
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: May 11, 2020
Written report: 5
Executive summary
Title: Annual small business resources update
Recommended action: **Due to the COVID-19 emergency declaration, this item is considered
essential business and is categorized Time-Sensitive**
•None at this time. The EDA is asked to give feedback to staff on the information provided
in this report.
Policy consideration: Are the small business programs, services and resources identified in this
report consistent with the EDA’s expectations?
Summary: The week of May 16-20 has been designated as National Small Business Week by
the U.S. Small Business Administration. Since 1963, the United States has recognized small
businesses and their impact on American culture and economy. The designated week aims to
honor the close to 30 million small businesses and the amazing people who run them.
Small businesses are integral to the economic strength and vitality of St. Louis Park and have a
direct bearing on the community’s prosperity. The majority of St. Louis Park’s businesses have
fewer than 25 employees. The city recognizes the vital role these enterprises play in the
economy and has a vested interest in seeing these small businesses succeed and thrive. Over
many years, and more recently in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the EDA has created a
variety of programs, services and resources aimed at assisting St. Louis Park’s small businesses
to start, grow, and expand their enterprises. With Small Business Week around the corner, it
seems an appropriate time to highlight the city’s small business activities in 2019, new
initiatives during the COVID-19 crisis and identify future initiatives.
Financial or budget considerations: None at this time.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a broad range of
housing and neighborhood oriented development.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Prepared by: Julie Grove, economic development specialist
Reviewed by: Greg Hunt, economic development coordinator
Karen Barton, community development director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager and EDA executive director
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 5) Page 2
Title: Annual small business resources update
Discussion
2019 small business resource activities
Open to Business Program
The Open to Business Program began in St. Louis Park in 2011. Per the contract with the EDA,
the Metropolitan Consortium of Community Developers (MCCD) provides free, one-on-one
business technical assistance to current and fledgling entrepreneurs, businesses and residents
in St. Louis Park. Counseling sessions typically occur at city hall but can also be scheduled at a
place of business. During the past year, MCCD staff met with 33 clients (28 businesses) and
provided 329 hours of service in the city. Of the clients served, 61% were women, 48% were
low income, and 29% were persons of color.
Last year, MCCD also facilitated three loans for St Louis Park businesses (two restaurants and
one business expansion), leveraging over $2.5 million in outside capital and financing $260,000
itself. Additionally, MCCD provided three credit building loans to St. Louis Park residents in
partnership with several nonprofit organizations. As part of credit building program, nonprofits
provide financial counseling with MCCD’s loans to help participants improve their credit scores,
thus allowing for better interest rates for various types of lending.
A total of 55 jobs were created or retained as a result of the Open to Business program in St.
Louis Park last year.
Business retention and expansion
Over the last several years, the city has partnered with the TwinWest Chamber of Commerce on
a joint business retention and expansion program to establish and maintain relationships with
St. Louis Park businesses. Through this program local businesses are visited by chamber and city
staff members with the following objectives:
• Demonstrate to local businesses that the city appreciates their contribution to the local
economy and welcomes their continuing growth and reinvestments.
• Create relationships and dialogue with local business owners and managers so as to
deepen businesses roots in the community.
• Gather pertinent information about local companies, their operations, employment and
growth plans.
• Listen to any concerns and help businesses address various current or potential
problems.
• Point businesses toward specific city departments or staff that can assist with particular
issues or concerns relative to their local operations.
• Provide information on available resources along with technical and financial assistance
programs aimed at helping them grow and become more competitive.
• Build community capacity to sustain growth and development.
10 business visits were conducted last year. Given the situation with COVID-19, business visits
have been put on hold. When circumstances allow later this year, business visits will resume.
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 5) Page 3
Title: Annual small business resources update
St. Louis Park Revolving Loan Fund and Historic Walker Lake Business District Loan Program
The EDA currently offers local businesses two loan programs through its Revolving Loan Fund
and Historic Walker Lake Business District Loan Program. The Revolving Loan Fund was
established in 2016 and provides market rate gap financing for property and equipment
purchases and capital improvements enabling local businesses to grow and expand their
enterprises, create employment and increase the city’s tax base. The maximum loan available
for each eligible project is $200,000 or 40% of total project cost, whichever is less. The program
is administered by Central Minnesota Development Corporation (CMDC).
Last year, a new loan program was launched specifically to encourage investment and growth in
the Historic Walker Lake area. Under the Historic Walker Lake Business District Loan program,
the EDA provides matching low-interest loans to assist small businesses expand or locate within
the district. The program is a joint initiative with the Metropolitan Consortium of Community
Developers (MCCD), (operator of the Open to Business program). MCCD provides loan funds
and the EDA matches those funds up to $75,000 at a 2% interest rate. The program aims to
make it more affordable for small businesses to invest in the Historic Walker Lake Business
District.
In 2019, the EDA provided three loans between the Revolving Loan Fund and the Historic
Walker Lake Business District Loan Program:
• The Block restaurant accessed two of the loans, including a 20-year, $150,000 gap loan
through the RLF and a 10-year, $74,950 low-interest loan through the Historic Walker
Lake Business District Loan Program to purchase and renovate the building at 7007
Walker St.
• London Square Associates closed on the third loan, a 10-year, $74,000 low-interest loan
through the Historic Walker Lake Business District Loan Program, to renovate the
“London Square” building at 6528 Lake St.
Historic Walker Lake Façade Improvement Grant Program
In spring of 2019, St. Louis Park was awarded a Hennepin County Business District Initiative
grant. With this award, the EDA established the Historic Walker Lake Façade Improvement
Grant Program to stimulate investment in the Historic Walker Lake Business District. The goal of
the program is to provide an incentive to businesses to make physical improvements to their
buildings to enhance the overall esthetics of the district, while also creating a cohesive design
and identity for the area. The program provides matching grants to reimburse eligible façade
improvements up to fifty percent of the total project cost up to a maximum of $10,000. Funds
through this program are available on a first-come, first-served basis from June 2019 to May
2021, subject to funding availability. To date, six grants have been awarded, three grant
applications are currently being processed and several other applications are expected this
spring/summer. Thus far the program has funded new awnings, exterior building upgrades,
windows, lighting, entry sidewalk repair, patio exteriors, and a district mural.
Historic Walker Lake Business Association
Early last year, a group of businesses and property owners in Historic Walker Lake began
meeting to discuss the idea of establishing a business district association. The group met
throughout 2019 to further develop the concept. In January 2020, the group formally filed
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 5) Page 4
Title: Annual small business resources update
articles of incorporation to officially become a 501(c)6 – business association and approved
bylaws and board members. Julie Grove serves as the city liaison for the association. The focus
of the association is to increase businesses opportunities within the district, formulate better
communication between existing and future businesses and building owners and to develop a
cohesive marketing strategy for area businesses especially as businesses learn how to reopen
and respond to the COVID pandemic.
Historic Walker Lake Small Area Revitalization Plan
For the last year and a half, planning staff has been preparing a small area revitalization plan for
Historic Walker Lake which was subsequently approved early this year. One of the
recommendations in the plan is to create an overlay zoning district. Such a district would
include size and use limits that would require smaller interior commercial spaces. This type of
requirement would facilitate the preservation and enhancement of affordable small business
spaces within the Historic Walker Lake area. The overlay zoning district is currently being
drafted and is expected to be brought to the city council for consideration this fall. Additionally,
staff has been working collaboratively with engineering relating to the reconstruction of Walker
and Lake streets to provide a more pedestrian- and bike-friendly environment to enhance the
vitality and safety of the district. Art installations will also be an integral part of the
revitalization as it occurs. Current installations planned include a large, community-created
wall mural on the former BikeMaster’s building and sidewalk poetry stamped into the new
sidewalks as part of the street reconstruction.
Small business liaison
The city’s economic development specialist, Julie Grove, also serves as the city’s Small Business
Liaison. In this role she provides assistance to entrepreneurs and business owners and
managers to help them start, grow, expand or relocate their enterprises as well as navigate
local regulatory requirements. Some of the assistance provided this past year has included
referring businesses to the wide variety of small business assistance resources and programs
offered locally and by various metro agencies and organizations, helping businesses search for
appropriate available properties within St. Louis Park, guiding businesses through the permit,
licensing and zoning processes, and responding to questions and concerns as they arise. Over
90 individuals, entrepreneurs, and businesses were aided by the small business liaison in 2019.
CEO Next Forum
Since 2012, Hennepin County has coordinated a business program designed to help second-
stage businesses sustain growth past the start-up stage. The program, called CEO Next Business
Forum (previously Economic Gardening), is a nine-month long program with peer CEO round
table discussions, intensive advance research and CEO forum events. Privately held businesses
with 10-99 employees and revenues between $1 million and $50 million are eligible to
participate. Nearly 100 businesses have participated in this program, including several from St.
Louis Park. Over 2,000 jobs have been created or retained in Hennepin County. Last year, the
city hosted these forums on a monthly basis. The St. Louis Park business that participated in last
year’s forum was Comparatio, an IT software company. Other St. Louis Park businesses to use
this the program include: Hard Coat, ChargeOver, Gleason Printing, Irish titan, Screenfeed and Z
Systems, Inc.
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 5) Page 5
Title: Annual small business resources update
Business resource webpages
Included on the city’s web site is a web page outlining the various small business resources
available in St Louis Park and the metro area. Under the heading: “Business” information can be
found on starting or expanding a business, business support, financing options, obtaining city
approvals, finding available property, as well as a robust set of links to other agencies and
organizations that offer assistance and services. Several of these resources are specifically
designated for underrepresented small business owners, including women, people of color and
indigenous individuals.
Assistance for women, veterans and people of color or in the indigenous community
Advancing equity is a priority in St. Louis Park. On the city’s web site there are webpages of
resources specifically related to women and minority-owned or managed businesses. Staff is
frequently reaching out to these businesses to provide needed support and share information
on the various resources and programs available to them. A variety of communication tools are
utilized in these efforts including in-person meetings, phone calls, emails, mailings, and social
media. All marketing materials for the EDA’s loan programs specifically state that businesses
owned or managed by women, persons of color, people in the indigenous community or
veterans are encouraged to utilize these resources and apply.
Staff has also developed relationships with organizations whose sole purpose is to help women
and minority entrepreneurs succeed. Such organizations include Metropolitan Economic
Development Association (MEDA), Neighborhood Development Center (NDC), WomenVenture,
and others. In conjunction with these relationships, staff is working to provide local businesses
with connections to these valuable organizations. These organizations provide assistance such
as one-on-one consultations, mentorships, financial counseling and loans.
Climate Action Plan for city businesses
In an effort to help the city achieve its Climate Action Plan goals, staff is actively encouraging
business owners and managers to implement sustainable building practices whenever possible.
Examples include adding electric vehicle charging stations in parking lots, implementing best
management practices for water and stormwater, recommending building owners report
annual energy and water uses per the efficient building benchmarking ordinance, participating
in business recycling programs and adhering to the Green Building Policy whenever applicable.
Staff also promotes the city’s PACE program and provides information on other sustainable
resources, rebates and programs designed to help businesses reduce energy consumption,
increase efficiency and reduce operating costs.
COVID-19 Business Response and Assistance
In response to the significant challenges facing local small businesses related to the COVID-19
pandemic, city staff is working on several fronts to help businesses address the financial
impacts of the outbreak. Following is summary of these efforts.
COVID website
To help community members and businesses keep up with the rapidly changing COVID-19-
related business assistance programs, staff has continually monitored local, state and federal
resources to ensure that the most current and up to date information is provided to the
business community. Staff regularly update the city’s Coronavirus Response and Resources
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 5) Page 6
Title: Annual small business resources update
website and other social media tools with this information. These resources include links to the
state and federal programs (DEED & SBA), Hennepin County resources, non-profit resources,
and other guidance tools for businesses, property owners and residents.
Loan deferrals
Staff has communicated to the lenders participating in the EDA’s loan programs that any loan
deferrals requested by borrowers and approved by MCCD and CMDC would be approved on an
as needed basis so as to provide some financial relief. Typically, such deferrals are for six
months.
Business outreach calls
Staff members have been reaching out to local businesses via phone calls and emails to inform
them of the various small business resources and the EDA’s emergency assistance program. To
date, over 1,000 businesses, starting with our smallest businesses, have been called or emailed.
The overall theme of the calls has been that the city is “checking-in” to see how the businesses
are doing, let them know about the various resources available to them, answer questions,
respond to concerns, and see how we can be of assistance. The businesses we have contacted
have been appreciative of the phone calls and the information provided related to the various
local, state and federal resources available. A number of businesses expressed gratitude for the
city’s efforts to assist them on multiple fronts. These outreach calls and efforts will continue as
we work to contact all of the city’s small business in the next couple of months and all of the
city’s 9000+ businesses in the next several months.
Moving forward, staff is working to update the city’s business list to ensure it is as up to date as
possible.
Emergency assistance
In response to the significant challenges currently facing local small businesses related to the
COVID-19 pandemic the Small Business Emergency Assistance Program was created to provide
immediate cash infusions to our local businesses to help them sustain their operations,
preserve employment, and prevent business closures. The program provided local small
businesses (those with 3 to 25 employees and under $1 million in annual revenue) with one-
time emergency grants of up to $5,000 to be used for working capital purposes.
The EDA approved the program April 20, 2020 and it was rolled out the next day with the initial
application period continuing to April 27th. Eighty-three (83) applications were received and
evaluated. Of those, 46 were selected to receive funding. The selection was based upon the
extent the applications met eligibility criteria, the application’s total score and amount of
funding available. In an effort to ensure our disadvantaged and typically underserved small
business owners were made aware of the program, staff obtained a list of POCI/woman/veteran
owned businesses in St. Louis Park from the Secretary of State’s Office and made personal
phone calls to each of the businesses immediately after the program was approved by the EDA.
A total of 35 (76%) of the businesses receiving funding are owned or managed by women,
veterans, or people of color or in the indigenous community (27 women, 4 veteran, 13 people of
color or in the indigenous community). As can be seen on the attached map the grants were
distributed throughout the community.
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 5) Page 7
Title: Annual small business resources update
Recognizing that many small businesses and their related jobs will likely suffer lingering effects
of the COVID crisis, staff will continue to keep businesses and property owners updated on
various business resources through a variety of communication tools and respond to questions
and concerns while also providing general support to assist them on their path to recovery.
Looking forward
Staff is routinely developing other small business resources and programs that the city could
potentially offer. Below is a new initiative on which staff has been working prior to the COVID-
19 pandemic.
Pop up business license
Pop-up retail is becoming more popular as retail companies and entrepreneurs have found
success using pop-ups to build awareness and interest in their brands and products. A pop-up is
a short-term, temporary commercial experience, that enables business owners to present their
products or services to consumers and test whether their concept is viable without the burden
of a long-term lease. To encourage entrepreneurs to open pop-up stores in the city, staff is
creating a new “Pop-up” business license. Entrepreneurs looking to operate as a pop-up will be
able to easily obtain a pop-up business license that will allow the pop-up for up to 30 days per
calendar year at a specific location. For this license the location must be a fixed indoor
commercial space. Outdoor temporary sales are already permitted utilizing temporary use
permits or mobile use vehicle permits.
Staff has been working with existing property owners to determine if they would be willing to
structure short term lease arrangements to allow temporary occupants while they are
searching for long term tenants. The goal is to be able to provide a few options for potential
pop-ups to consider on an ongoing basis. Staff has also been working with the city’s
communication division to develop a marketing plan for the new program which will begin as
implementation of this new program nears. Ideally, this program will help entrepreneurs grow
their temporary pop-up shop into a successful and well-established business, and the vacant
commercial spaces will become occupied with long-term tenants. This program could also be
used by businesses trying to restart or wanting to test a new concept after the COVID
pandemic. Staff hopes to implement this program as soon as circumstances allow.
Continued outreach
To further promote the city’s various small business assistance offerings, staff plans to update
its marketing brochures to highlight all the resources, financial offerings, services and programs
currently available through the city. Additionally, the small business assistance pages on the
city’s web site will continue to be updated and revised to make sure the information is current
and easy to access. Small business assistance information will also be highlighted in the Park
Perspective, in newsletters, on Park TV, and the city’s social media sites.
Next steps: Staff would like feedback on the above initiatives and welcomes any questions the
EDA may have.
Study session meeting of May 11, 2020 (Item No. 5) Page 8
Title: Annual small business resources update