HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021/05/17 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - City Council - RegularAGENDA
MAY 17, 2021
Meetings of the St. Louis Park City Council will be conducted in person starting May 17, 2021.
The city will follow COVID-19 protocols set forth by the Center of Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC) and the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH). Members of the public may attend the
meeting in person at 5005 Minnetonka Blvd.
EDA meeting canceled; Regular city council meeting at 6:30 p.m.
Some members of the St. Louis Park City Council will participate in the May 17, 2021 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 attend the meeting in person or monitor the meeting by video and
audio at bit.ly/watchslpcouncil and on local cable (Comcast SD channel 17 and HD channel 859).
For audio only call +1.312.535.8110 and use access code 372 106 61. Visit bit.ly/slpccagendas to
view the agenda and reports.
Members of the public who want to address the city council during the regular meeting about
items on the agenda may attend the meeting in person or call the number noted below next to
the corresponding item. Call when the meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. and follow instructions
provided. Comments will be taken during each item in the order they are received and must
relate to an item on the current city council agenda.
•952.562.2886 – consent agenda items 4a-4d
•952.562.2886 – item 5a – Appoint representatives to boards and commissions
•952.562.2887 – item 6a – S&F Dining, dba Dancing Ganesha – on-sale wine and 3.2 liquor license
•952.562.2888 – item 8a – Ordinance amending St. Louis Park Home Rule Charter
Special study session immediately following city council meeting
The St. Louis Park City Council will meet in person for a special study session immediately following
the regular city council meeting. Members of the public may attend the meeting in person. This
meeting will not be available on Comcast, web streamed or through audio listen-only format.
Some members of the St. Louis Park City Council will participate in the May 17, 2021 special
study session by electronic device or telephone rather than by being personally present at the
city council's regular meeting place at 5005 Minnetonka Blvd. Visit bit.ly/slpccagendas to view
the agenda and reports.
6:30 p.m. CITY COUNCIL MEETING
1.Call to order
1a. Pledge of allegiance
1b. Roll call
2. Presentations
2a. Recognition of donations
3.Approval of minutes
3a. Local board of appeal and equalization meeting minutes of April 12, 2021
3b. City council meeting minutes of April 5, 2021
Meeting of May 17, 2021
City council agenda
4. Approval of agenda and items on consent calendar
Recommended action: **Motion to approve the agenda as presented and items listed on the
consent calendar; and to waive reading of all resolutions and ordinances. (Alternatively: Motion to add
or remove items from the agenda, or move items from consent calendar to regular agenda for discussion.)
4a. Approve the second reading and adopt Ordinance amending Section 36-74(a) and
162(b) pertaining to fences and yard definitions for accessory structures and approve
summary ordinance for publication.
4b. Adopt Resolution approving a mobility sharing license for Bird Rides Inc.
4c. Adopt Resolution approving acceptance of software and services for two years valued
at $9,360 from First Response Mental Health through their PeerConnect application for
the St. Louis Park police department.
4d. Adopt Resolution calling for a public hearing on June 21, 2021 regarding host approval
for the Groves Academy project at 3200 Highway 100 South to be financed with
revenue bonds to be issued by the City of Mayer.
5. Boards and commissions
5a. Appointment of representatives to boards and commissions
Recommended action: Motion to appoint representatives to the boards and
commissions as listed in exhibit A.
6. Public hearings
6a. S&F Dining, LLC dba Dancing Ganesha – on-sale wine and 3.2 liquor license
Recommended action: Mayor to open public hearing, take public testimony, and close
public hearing. Motion to approve application from S&F Dining, LLC dba Dancing
Ganesha for an on-sale wine and on-sale 3.2 liquor license located at 8124 Hwy 7.
7. Requests, petitions, and communications from the public – None
8. Resolutions, ordinances, motions and discussion items
8a. Second reading of an ordinance amending St. Louis Park Home Rule Charter
Recommended action: Motion to approve the second reading and adopt Ordinance
amending the St. Louis Park Home Rule Charter to implement gender-neutral language
in Sections 2.05, 12.02 (2), 12.18, 12.19, and 12.20 and to correct minor legal
inconsistencies in Sections 3.01 and 11.03, and to approve a summary ordinance for
publication. A unanimous vote of all 7 councilmembers is required for approval.
9. Communications – None
**NOTE: The consent calendar lists those items of business which are considered to be routine and/or
which need no discussion. Consent items are acted upon by one motion. If discussion is desired by either
a councilmember or a member of the public, that item may be moved to an appropriate section of the
regular agenda for discussion.
Meeting of May 17, 2021
City council agenda
Immediately following the city council meeting
SPECIAL STUDY SESSION
Discussion items
1. 2 – 3 hours *City manager recruitment discussion
* City manager candidate names are private data pursuant to Minn. Stat. 13.43 Subd.3.
St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority and regular city council meetings are carried live on civic TV cable channel 17
and replays are frequent; check www.parktv.org for the schedule. The meetings are also streamed live on the internet at
www.parktv.org, and saved for video on demand replays. 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: City council
Meeting date: May 17, 2021
Presentation: 2a
Executive summary
Title: Recognition of donations
Recommended action: Mayor to announce and express thanks and appreciation for the
following donations being accepted at the meeting and listed on the consent agenda:
From Donation For
First Response
Mental Health
$9,360
value
Software and services of PeerConnect application that provides
access to mental health support for the St. Louis Park police
department
Strategic priority consideration: Not applicable.
Supporting documents: None
Prepared by: Debbie Fischer, administrative services office assistant
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: May 17, 2021
Minutes: 3a
Unofficial minutes
Local board of appeal & equalization
St. Louis Park, Minnesota
April 12, 2021
1. Convene the local board of appeal and equalization
The St. Louis Park local board of appeal and equalization convened at 6:15 p.m.
2. Roll call – declaration of quorum
Board Members present: Chair Jake Spano, Tim Brausen, Lynette Dumalag, Larry Kraft, Rachel
Harris, Nadia Mohamed, and Margaret Rog
Board Members absent: none
Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Harmening), City Assessor (Mr. Bultema), Commercial
Appraiser (Ms. Nathanson), Residential Appraiser (Mr. Hoppe), CFO (Ms. Schmitt), Senior
Management Analyst (Ms. Solano), Recording Secretary (Ms. Pappas)
Guests: Janene Hebert, Hennepin County
It was moved by board member Rog seconded by board member Harris, to appoint board
member Spano as Chair of the April 12, 2021 local board of appeal and equalization meeting.
The motion passed 7-0.
It was noted that board member Kraft will be chosen to lead the April 26, 2021 reconvened
meeting.
3. Acknowledgement of trained member (Kraft and Rog)
The board acknowledged board members Kraft and Rog as trained members.
4. Accept roster of appellants and call for any additions
Mr. Bultema presented the initial roster of appellants to the Board.
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 3a) Page 2
Title: Local board of appeal and equalization meeting minutes of April 12, 2021
The Board accepted a total of 8 parcels into the record for local board of appeal and
equalization actions. The copy of the roster is attached to these minutes.
A call for roster additions was made. No other appellants appeared.
5. Determination of date and time for continued proceedings (reconvene)
It was moved by board member Brausen, seconded by board member Rog, to reconvene the
local board of appeal and equalization on April 26, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. prior to the study session
in the council chambers, and also request appellants to present in writing ahead of time and
be available for questions during the April 26, 2021 reconvened meeting.
The motion passed 7-0.
6. Instruct assessor to:
a. Inform appellants for reconvene date via telephone and mail
b. Inform appellants of board process
c. Inform appellants of the county board application date (5/21/2021)
d. Re-inspect and re-appraise parcels under appeal
7. Completion of the local board certification form
The board completed the local board of appeal and equalization certification form.
8. Recess
The local board of appeal and equalization recessed the meeting at 6:22 p.m.
STATE OF MINNESOTA )
COUNTY OF HENNEPIN ) ss
CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK )
The undersigned, being the duly qualified city clerk of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota,
certifies that the foregoing is a full, true and correct copy of the official local board of appeal
and equalization minutes of April 12, 2021 that are on file in the office of the city clerk.
WITNESS my hand and the seal of the City of St. Louis Park this ____ day of May, 2021.
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk
Date:
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: May 17, 2021
Minutes: 3b
Unofficial minutes
City council meeting
St. Louis Park, Minnesota
April 5, 2021
1. Call to order
Mayor Spano called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
1a. Pledge of allegiance
1b. Roll call
Councilmembers present: Mayor Jake Spano, Tim Brausen, Lynette Dumalag, Rachel Harris,
Larry Kraft, Nadia Mohamed, and Margaret Rog
Councilmembers absent: none
Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Harmening), City Attorney (Mr. Mattick), CIO (Mr. Pires),
Director of Community Development (Ms. Barton), Planning and Zoning Supervisor (Mr.
Walther), Associate Planner (Mr. Kramer), Communications Manager (Ms. Smith), Senior
Management Analyst (Ms. Solano), and Recording Secretary (Ms. Pappas)
Guests: Brian Grogan, Attorney Moss & Barnett
2. Presentations - none
3. Approval of minutes
3a. City council meeting minutes of Feb. 16, 2021
It was moved by Councilmember Rog, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to approve
the Feb. 16, 2021 city council meeting minutes as presented.
The motion passed 7-0.
3b. City council meeting minutes of March 1, 2021
Councilmember Dumalag noted the guest was Chris Culp not Cult.
She added in 8a it should read, “HDL is a client of JLL.”
It was moved by Councilmember Rog, seconded by Councilmember Mohamed, to
approve the March 1, 2021 city council meeting minutes as amended.
The motion passed 7-0.
3c. Special study session meeting minutes of March 1, 2021
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 3b) Page 2
Title: City council meeting minutes of April 5, 2021
It was moved by Councilmember Mohamed, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to
approve the March 1, 2021 special study session meeting minutes as presented.
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 Feb. 20 through
March 26, 2021.
4b. Designate Thomas and Sons Construction the lowest responsible bidder and
authorize a contract with the firm in the amount of $2,889,051.80 for Monterey-
Belt Line-36th improvement project (4020-1101 and 4021-2000).
Adopt Resolution No. 21-040 to restrict parking on 36th Street from Webster
Avenue to Belt Line Boulevard.
4c. Adopt Resolution No. 21-041 establishing Highway 100 East Frontage Road as a
Municipal State Aid Street segment.
4d. Adopt Resolution No. 21-042 to recognize Jayme Hamilton for his 31 years of
service.
4e. Adopt Resolution No. 21-043 approving labor agreement between the city and
the firefighter employee bargaining group, establishing terms and conditions of
employment for one year, from Jan. 1, 2021 – Dec. 31, 2021.
4f. Adopt Resolution No. 21-044 authorizing bank signatories.
4g. Adopt Resolution No. 21-045 authorizing bank signatories for the Home
Remodeling Fair.
4h. Accept for filing fire civil service commission minutes of Feb. 18, 2020.
4i. Accept for filing fire civil service commission minutes of Oct. 30, 2020.
4j. Accept for filing planning commission minutes of Feb. 24, 2021.
It was moved by Councilmember Kraft, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to approve
the agenda as presented and items listed on the consent calendar; and to waive reading
of all resolutions and ordinances.
The motion passed 7-0.
5. Boards and commissions
5a. Appointment of youth representatives to boards and commissions
Councilmember Kraft stated he brought this forward in Sept. and now there are two
youth seats on all commissions. He is happy both students are going onto the
commission and will be enriching the community. He added youth voices matter in St.
Louis Park, and he is interested in how students are recruited at St. Louis Park high
school.
Mayor Spano stated he has spoken to folks who say your voice is your vote and he has
been extremely interested in seeing students on the commissions for quite some time.
He also is excited to see these two students coming onto the police advisory
commission.
It was moved by Councilmember Kraft, seconded by Councilmember Mohamed, to
appoint Li Livdahl to the human rights commission and Tobias Khabie to the police
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 3b) Page 3
Title: City council meeting minutes of April 5, 2021
advisory commission as voting youth representatives with terms ending on August 31,
2021.
The motion passed 7-0.
6. Public hearings
6a. Establishment of the Texa Tonka increment financing district. Resolution No.
21-046
Mr. Hunt presented the staff report.
Mayor Spano opened the public hearing. No speakers were present. Mayor Spano
closed the public hearing.
Councilmember Harris noted this area has needed development for over 20 years, and
when the developer proposed the project, it was a tremendous opportunity for this
area.
Councilmember Rog stated while she is pleased with the project, she will oppose the
establishment of a TIF district due to her ongoing concerns with the city’s use of TIF. She
stated there will be studio and 1-bedroom units, as well as 2-bedroom units, but this will
not be sufficient for families that need 3-bedroom units. She is not convinced this is the
best way to invest tax dollars; therefore, she will oppose the establishment of the TIF
district at Texa Tonka. She would like to further discuss TIF with the council and take a
deeper dive into return on investment and TIF.
Councilmember Brausen stated this is a reinvestment of future tax dollars that will be
earned from redeveloping this corner and thereby getting new affordable units of
housing for families, green plans, and tax dollars. He stated staff works behind the
scenes to ensure developers are not profiting but creating affordable housing for the
city’s needs. He added the city did not have any affordable housing in the past without
the use of TIF, which is a very good investment and he will support it.
Councilmember Kraft stated he will also support this but noted Councilmember Rog
brings up good points and he is also interested in digging deeper into this topic. He
stated while he honors the work of previous councils related to community
redevelopment and affordable housing, he also wants to review TIF to see if it is the
most effective way to achieve this. He noted he does support the green features of the
project and how the developer is tied to the community.
Councilmember Dumalag stated she will also support this project and appreciates the
developer is taking a land parcel that was ignored for many years and turning it into
housing for folks to call St. Louis Park home. She added she appreciates there will be
affordable housing as well, noting some is better than none.
Councilmember Mohamed stated she too will support the proposal as this area does
need this investment. She added that she agrees with Councilmember Rog’s comments
on housing and bedrooms, adding these should be made for bigger families.
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 3b) Page 4
Title: City council meeting minutes of April 5, 2021
It was moved by Councilmember Harris, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to adopt
Resolution No. 21-046 approving the establishment of the Texa Tonka tax increment
financing district (a housing district).
The motion passed 6-1 (Councilmember Rog opposed).
6b. Nordic Ware building 9 easement vacation
Ms. Kramer presented the report.
Mayor Spano opened the public hearing. No speakers were present. Mayor Spano
closed the public hearing.
The action to vacate the portion of easements is included under agenda item 8b.
6c. First reading of an ordinance granting a cable television franchise to Comcast of
Minnesota, LLC
Mr. Grogan, attorney Moss & Barnett, presented the staff report.
Mayor Spano opened the public hearing. No speakers were present. Mayor Spano
closed the public hearing.
Councilmember Harris asked if there are provisions in the agreement that are unique
from what the city has had previously. Mr. Grogan stated this agreement is very similar
to the concept of the former contract.
Councilmember Harris asked if the cable wires will be underground or above. Mr.
Grogan stated it will be a mix of both, adding this will follow along with city code.
Councilmember Harris stated she will support this.
Councilmember Rog asked Mr. Grogan to confirm that the PEG fee is new revenue. Mr.
Grogan stated yes, adding that previously there was a fee charged to customers, and
now the fee will be paid to the city, which will be new quarterly revenue.
Councilmember Rog asked if a portion of the PEG revenue will be going to a new media
center. Ms. Smith stated once this is in place, staff will revisit this, review the previously
completed needs assessment and decide how to proceed with items recommended. She
added these funds could support that but noted the CIP will need to be reviewed first.
Councilmember Rog asked if these funds of $2.1 million over 10 years are discretionary
to be used as the city wishes. Mr. Grogan stated these funds are earmarked and tied to
PEG support, but not salaries, more brick and mortar.
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 3b) Page 5
Title: City council meeting minutes of April 5, 2021
Councilmember Rog stated 5% of gross revenues equals half a million dollars per year
and asked if that will be used to support Park TV. Ms. Smith stated that is correct.
Councilmember Brausen stated he is very happy with the terms of this contract which
will allow support for community television and public access for 10 years. He stated he
enthusiastically supports this.
Councilmember Kraft asked Mr. Grogan why he said this was a very successful process.
Mr. Grogan explained staff understood what they wanted to accomplish and were able
to reach the objectives presented. He stated some cities have issues with Comcast, and
St. Louis Park learned from those issues, which resulted in a good outcome. He added in
some cities, cable commissions are formed and costs are shared; however, there is more
at stake and it gets complicated.
Councilmember Kraft stated he will support this. He noted that franchise fees are an
interesting thing, but they feel like taxes listed on bills, and he prefers they not be listed
on bills.
Councilmember Mohamed added her support as did Councilmember Dumalag.
Councilmember Dumalag asked what changed about customer service from the
previous agreement to this one.
Mr. Grogan stated the agreement is now tied into the FCC customer service standards,
which are aggressive. He noted these include timing in answering phone calls, time
change to a human operator, time doing installs, handling repairs, and how repairs are
measured, including other issues.
It was moved by Councilmember Rog, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to approve
first reading of ordinance granting a cable television franchise to Comcast of Minnesota,
LLC and set second reading for April 19, 2021.
The motion passed 7-0.
7. Requests, petitions, and communications from the public – none
8. Resolutions, ordinances, motions, and discussion items
8a. Target Knollwood – Boone Avenue reconstruction – conditional use permit
Resolution No. 21-047
Mr. Walther presented the staff report.
Councilmember Harris asked if Boone Avenue is a private road, or which segment is
private. Mr. Walther stated from the 37th Street West bridge north to 36th Street West is
the private segment.
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 3b) Page 6
Title: City council meeting minutes of April 5, 2021
Councilmember Harris stated not many folks are aware it is a private road, noting it
functions as a public road in terms of how people use it. She has noticed it closed in the
past due to flooding, adding it is a consistent problem. She thanked Target Corporation
for their choice to repair the area and prevent future flooding, noting the addition of
trees there will be a benefit also. She stated the Target site is highly used, a valued
community feature, and she is thankful they are there.
Councilmember Kraft stated when he looked up the site on Google maps, he could see it
flooded, so obviously the work needs to be done. He asked about the 1961 and 2014
floodplain analysis and the fact this flooding has occurred every year for the past 5
years.
Mr. Walther stated the flood risk maps of Hennepin County are based on what a 1%
chance rainfall event would be, adding that in St. Louis Park that is 6 inches of rain in a
24-hour period. This was based on a national study in 1961. He noted in 2014, NOAA did
a new national analysis of rainfall with 50 years of historical data collected from more
locations, and that study indicates the 1% rainfall event increased from 6 to 7.5 inches
of rain in a 24-hour period. He stated this can have an impact on floodplain boundaries,
adding the city and the watershed have incorporated this for permitting and the
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is responsible for updating maps through
the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) procedures.
Councilmember Kraft pointed out the 1961 24-hour rainfall at 6 inches, and the 2014
data at 7.5 inches, noting this is due to climate change and more humidity. He stated he
will meet with staff on stormwater issues to discuss the impacts of climate change on
the city’s infrastructure.
Councilmember Rog asked if the city is doing stormwater modeling. Mr. Walther stated
yes, as part of the comprehensive plan surface water management plan the city
conducted both stormwater and flood modeling.
Councilmember Rog asked if there will be a permanent holding pond now in the parking
lot. The representative from Kimley Horn stated yes, there will be standing water in the
pond.
Councilmember Rog asked how deep it will be and if there are safety concerns or if
fencing is needed. The representative from Kimley Horn stated there are designated
benches for safety and green space around the pond, while the water will be typically be
4 feet deep in the pond.
Councilmember Brausen asked if the canoe entry and exit point at the creek will stay or
not. Mr. Walther stated yes, and when the city replaced the 37th Street bridge, that
project did improve and preserve the canoe entry point. Councilmember Brausen noted
Minnehaha Creek runs through there as well so that will need to be watched.
It was moved by Councilmember Harris, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to adopt
Resolution No. 21-047, approving the conditional use permit to place 522 cubic yards of
fill in the floodplain for the reconstruction of Boone Avenue.
The motion passed 7-0.
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 3b) Page 7
Title: City council meeting minutes of April 5, 2021
8b. Nordic Ware building 9. Resolution No. 21-048
Ms. Kramer noted the earlier report given to council.
Councilmember Rog stated the community is excited about the café and thanked staff
and the developer for this. She asked how many can be seated in the café. Ms. Kramer
stated 10-15 inside and 10-15 outside.
Councilmember Rog thanked all for joining the public meeting in early February, adding
she appreciated the notes included in the packet. She noted Mr. Dahlquist stated he
would like to see a pedestrian crosswalk on Beltline to get to the café. Ms. Kramer
stated at this time there is no crosswalk planned, but the intention with the café is to
serve trail users and route pedestrian traffic from other areas as safely as possible.
Councilmember Kraft stated it is great to see the continued investment by this long-time
St. Louis Park business. He noted their plans for solar and added this might also increase
in the future and he is happy to see the café happening in an industrial zone and hopes
it will be allowed in others as well.
Mayor Spano noted the pedestrian bridge and intersection improvements were projects
the city was trying to fund for many years as there were significant safety concerns with
bikes and pedestrians there. He noted this will need to be reviewed again as transit
moves through the area, adding at-grade crossings can be very confusing, and this will
not be the same as at the Wooddale station area. He stated vehicles will stop there
because it is a corner crossing, but cautioned at mid-block crossings, there can be
confusion and very narrow misses.
It was moved by Councilmember Rog, seconded by Councilmember Dumalag, to approve
first reading of ordinance vacating portions of storm sewer easement, forced main sewer
easement, and drainage and utility easement, and set the second reading for April 19,
2021.
The motion passed 7-0.
It was moved by Councilmember Rog, and seconded by Councilmember Kraft, to adopt
the Resolution No. 21-048 approving the amendment to the special permit and to
approve first reading of ordinance amending Section 36-244 (e)(6) of the zoning code
and set the second reading for April 19, 2021.
The motion passed 7-0.
8c. Best Cleaners conditional use permit and variance extension.
Ms. Kramer presented the staff report and 1-year extension request.
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 3b) Page 8
Title: City council meeting minutes of April 5, 2021
David Colhauer, 8105 Minnetonka Blvd., stated he owns the building and Best Cleaners,
and since COVID-19 his business has been down 50%, adding he does not know if or
when it will recover. Therefore, he would like a 1-year extension on the CUP and
variance. He continued if his business gets better, he would like to build, but if not, then
he will not build, pointing out that residents are working at home now and not using his
cleaning service as much.
Councilmember Harris agreed that many businesses have been deeply impacted by the
pandemic. She asked about the timeline for applying for permits and the extension. Ms.
Kramer confirmed the applicant had one year to apply for the building permit, had
received a 1-year extension, and now is asking for another.
Councilmember Harris stated she will deny approval, noting the community has had
many hours of conversations about ground floor transparency on store fronts, and that
is paramount for the community in supporting biking and walking. She added the Texa
Tonka area plan was implemented since the Best Cleaners permit was approved, and if
the cleaners could adapt to the plans in that area, she may have decided differently on
this.
Councilmember Rog added this is difficult as she is empathetic to business owners but
noted two years have passed and things have changed. She stated the council has a
responsibility now to the community and best serving them, adding she does not feel
there will be a huge use of dry cleaners going forward with work pattern changes, and
she will vote to deny the extensions.
Councilmember Brausen agreed adding he too will deny the extensions. He stated the
applicant did have two years to submit the building plans, but the plan is too big, and
the ground floor transparency is something to consider as well. He stated he will deny
but hopes the applicant’s business will improve so he can come back to the city with a
new plan.
Councilmember Dumalag stated she will also deny the extensions, adding she does have
sympathy for the applicant, but because there were 3 non-conformities since the
application was first submitted, she will vote to deny.
Councilmember Kraft stated he will vote against the motion to deny, stating this
extension was approved 1 year ago and COVID is worse now. He appreciates the
precedent on this, but stated the council needs to give more leeway to small businesses
given the circumstances and he would rather err on the side of business.
Councilmember Mohamed stated she will also vote against the motion to deny, adding
COVID has not ended, and she wants to give leniency as was given last year, so the
business can stay there.
Mayor Spano stated he agreed this has been a tough time during COVID, but he also
understands being responsible to all in the area, noting rules change over time and it is
not anyone’s fault, but it happens. He stated he will support the staff recommendation
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 3b) Page 9
Title: City council meeting minutes of April 5, 2021
on this, adding the owner did say that even with another extension, he was not certain
he would be able to do anything as his business is down.
Councilmember Harris asked staff if during the pandemic extensions such as this have
the fees ever been waived. Mr. Walther stated the city has not waived fees for building
permits but has provided or shifted assistance to other uses that were in more dire
needs during the pandemic. He stated for expanding buildings, the city has not provided
waivers of fees.
Mr. Harmening stated if the owner contacts staff about planning and zoning, he can
inquire about financial assistance also through the CARES Act, or county assistance.
It was moved by Councilmember Harris, seconded by Councilmember Rog, to deny an
extension to act upon the approved conditional use permit (CUP) and variance at 8105
Minnetonka Blvd.
The motion passed 5-2 (Councilmembers Kraft and Mohamed opposed).
8d. Resolution in support of the Asian American and Pacific Islander community
(AAPI) Resolution No. 21-049
Ms. Solano presented the staff report. She stated the Human Rights Commission (HRC)
met following the events in Atlanta, GA and put together a statement for council to
consider related to the AAPI community, while highlighting the ongoing history and
discrimination they have faced.
Mayor Spano thanked the HRC for engaging and reaching out to staff and him on this
issue. He has reached out to the AAPI community also to see how they are doing, noting
they are feeling exhausted.
Mayor Spano stated that this is not a new issue and has been going on for over 100
years in the US, as well as gun violence which is ongoing in many cities. He added the
city’s Summer of Action will engage HRC with residents on these issues.
Councilmember Dumalag thanked the HRC for their work on this. She stated she is a
Filipino American, and when the attacks happened, it was very hard. She stated she
appreciates the spirit of the statement, adding she is someone that prefers action versus
statements, so the Summer of Action will be what she wants to see happening. She
added violence is not only specific to gun violence, and noted she is supportive of this
resolution and anxious to see what comes of this.
Councilmember Kraft agreed with all, adding he is interested in seeing actions, but
words do matter also. He stated these hate crimes are not welcome in St. Louis Park.
Councilmember Mohamed added she is happy to see this resolution and is looking
forward to the action of the HRC and the council. She stated the council sets the tone
when this is declared, and she is happy to support it.
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 3b) Page 10
Title: City council meeting minutes of April 5, 2021
Councilmember Brausen added he also will support this, stating there is no room in St.
Louis Park for hatred or bigotry and they need to do everything they can to eliminate it.
Councilmember Rog stated she would like to think nothing ever goes wrong in St. Louis
Park, but pointed to an email she received from an Asian American resident in her
neighborhood, who had an upsetting incident. She stated the resident did get a
response to this issue from her, after reaching out to see what the city could do to make
St. Louis Park more welcoming to all. She stated she will support this and the action
behind it.
Councilmember Harris stated this is important and there is no room for hate in St. Louis
Park, adding that more education and acceptance of those who are different is needed.
She stated she is pleased and proud to see the city walking the talk with the resolution
and Summer of Action and she also will support this.
Mayor Spano read the resolution into the record. Mayor Spano also encouraged all to
read the city preamble as background.
It was moved by Councilmember Dumalag, seconded by Councilmember Mohamed, to
adopt Resolution No. 21-049 in support of the Asian American and Pacific Islander
community.
The motion passed 7-0.
9. Communications
Councilmember Harris noted a new restaurant at Texa Tonka called Burrito Taco Shop, which is
now open.
Councilmember Mohamed stated Ramadan starts next week noting she will be fasting, and
then eating during the council meetings.
10. Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:18 p.m.
______________________________________ ______________________________________
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Jake Spano, mayor
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: May 17, 2021
Consent agenda item: 4a
Executive summary
Title: Second reading of ordinance pertaining to fences and yard definitions for accessory
structures
Recommended action: Motion to approve the second reading and adopt Ordinance amending
Section 36-74(a) and 162(b) pertaining to fences and yard definitions for accessory structures and
approve summary ordinance for publication.
Policy consideration: Does the council wish to amend Section 36-74 and 162 to change how the
city determines the front, back and side yards for corner lots when applied to fences so that the
yards, and therefore the allowed fence height, consistently align with orientation of the house.
Summary: The board of zoning appeals and planning commission asked staff to prepare an
amendment to the zoning ordinance to both clarify and amend which part of the property is
considered the front, back and side yards when applying the fence regulations to corner lots. It
is also the intent of the amendment to clarify the yard definitions currently applied to accessory
buildings, accessory dwelling units, and off-street parking vehicles in residential districts, and
apply the same yard definitions to fences.
Background: The application was initiated after the board of zoning appeals (BOZA) reviewed a
variance application in 2020 to allow a six-foot tall fence in the front yard of a corner lot which
coincided with the side of the house because the house faced the side lot line abutting a street.
The application was withdrawn with the understanding that the board of zoning appeals
recommended the city consider amending the ordinance in a way that would allow the
applicant’s proposed fence consistently on corner lots that have similar circumstances.
Present considerations: Attached is a copy of a proposed ordinance. In summary, the ordinance
proposes to clarify the yard definitions currently applied for accessory buildings, accessory
dwelling units and vehicle parking. The ordinance also proposes to apply the clarified yard
definitions to fences so fences will follow the same yard regulations as accessory buildings,
accessory structures, and vehicle parking.
The planning commission considered the proposed amendment in study session on March 17,
2021 and conducted a public hearing on April 7, 2021. No comments were received at the
hearing, and the planning commission recommended approval of the ordinance. The city
council approved the first reading on May 3, 2021.
Financial or budget considerations: None
Strategic priority consideration: Not applicable.
Supporting documents: Ordinance
Summary ordinance for publication
Prepared by: Gary Morrison, assistant zoning administrator
Reviewed by: Sean Walther, planning and zoning supervisor
Michele Schnitker, housing supervisor/deputy community development director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 4a) Page 2
Title: Second reading of ordinance pertaining to fences and yard definitions for accessory structures
Ordinance No. ___-21
Ordinance regarding fences
The City of St. Louis Park does ordain:
Whereas, the planning commission conducted a public hearing on April 7, 2021 on the
ordinance, and
Whereas, the City Council has considered the advice and recommendation of the planning
commission (case no. 21-08-ZA), and
Now, therefore be it resolved that the following amendments shall be made to the City
Code:
Section 1. Chapter 36, Section 36-74(a) of the St. Louis Park City Code is hereby amended
to add the following underlined text:
(a) General provisions.
(1)Permit required. A permit shall be required prior to the installation of any fence.
(2)Submission requirements. The following information shall be submitted prior to a fence
permit being issued:
a.Application form and fee.
b.Site plan indicating location of fence.
c.Fence design indicating height and style of fence.
(3)Yards definition. The definition of yards found in section 36-162(b) shall be used for this
section.
Section 2. Chapter 36, Section 36-162(b) of the St. Louis Park City Code is hereby
amended to add the underlined text and remove the strike out text as noted:
(b) Definitions. For the purpose of subsections (d) and (e) of this section, and of section 74
(fences) of this chapter, the listed terms are defined and illustrated as follows:
Back yard means the area of a lot extending the full width of the lot behind a line created by
extending the rear face of the principal building to the property lines located to the sides of the
principal building. between a line created by extending the rear face of the principal building and
the rear lot line.
front face means the elevation of a principal building that is oriented toward the front lot line.
On a corner lot, the front face may be oriented toward the front lot line or a side lot line
adjacent to a street. Typically, the front face of the principal building contains an entry to the
building and that entrance is more architecturally prominent when viewed from public streets.
Said entrance does not include an overhead garage door. When it is ambiguous, the zoning
administrator determines which is the front face of the building.
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 4a) Page 3
Title: Second reading of ordinance pertaining to fences and yard definitions for accessory structures
Front yard means the area of a lot which extends the full width of the lot between the front face
of the principal building and the lot line adjacent to the street right-of-way in front of the principal
building. between a line created by extending the front face of the principal building and the
street in front of the house.
Rear face means the elevation of a principal building that is opposite the front face of the same
principal building.
Side yard means the area of a lot between the front and back yards. building walls and the side
lot line.
Section 3. This ordinance shall take effect June 11, 2021.
Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the City Council May 17, 2021
Thomas K. Harmening, city manager
Attest:
Jake Spano, mayor
Approved as to form and execution:
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Soren Mattick, city attorney
First Reading May 3, 2021
Second Reading May 17, 2021
Date of Publication May 27, 2021
Date Ordinance takes effect June 11, 2021
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 4a) Page 4
Title: Second reading of ordinance pertaining to fences and yard definitions for accessory structures
Summary ordinance for publication
Ordinance No. ____-21
An ordinance amending
the St. Louis Park zoning ordinance
pertaining to fences
This ordinance amends Chapter 36 of the City of St. Louis Park city code relating to
zoning. The amendment clarifies the yard definitions applied to accessory structures, accessory
dwelling units, and vehicle parking and it applies the clarified yard definitions to fences.
This ordinance shall take effect 15 days after publication.
Adopted by the City Council May 17, 2021
Jake Spano /s/
Mayor
A copy of the full text of this ordinance is available for inspection with the City Clerk.
Published in St. Louis Park Sailor: May 27, 2021
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: May 17, 2021
Consent agenda item: 4b
Executive summary
Title: Approve mobility sharing license for Bird Rides Inc.
Recommended action: Motion to adopt Resolution approving a mobility sharing license for Bird
Rides Inc.
Policy consideration: Does the city council want to move forward with the implementation of a
mobility sharing program for 2021?
Summary: On April 9, 2021, the city issued a new request for proposals (RFP) for mobility
sharing companies for the 2021 season. At the writing of this report, staff has received one
application from Bird Rides Inc. (Bird).
No other scooter, bike or vehicle sharing companies responded to our RFP. However, there are
two additional licenses available. Should additional vendors show interest in deploying in the
city, staff will update the council.
Bird proposes to deploy scooters yet in May with 50 scooters in their first week of operation. By
the end of their second week, they propose to deploy up to 125 scooters.
Staff has reviewed Bird’s RFP submittal and recommend approving a mobility sharing license for
the 2021 season.
Financial or budget considerations: The vendor will pay a license fee for each device deployed
to help cover staff time and infrastructure costs. Any other costs related to this policy are
negligible and would come from the general operating budget.
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: Discussion
Resolution
Study session report March 25, 2019 (pgs. 71 –94)
Council report June 17, 2019 (pgs. 400 – 417)
Study session report March 9, 2020 (pgs. 103 – 185)
Prepared by: Ben Manibog, transportation engineer
Reviewed by: Debra Heiser, engineering director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 4b) Page 2
Title: Approve mobility sharing license for Bird Rides Inc.
Discussion
Background: City Code sections 30-212 to 30-258 regulate mobility sharing operations within
St. Louis Park. The ordinance defines mobility sharing, authorizes the city’s ability to impound
devices, requires providers to have a city license, and establishes fees. The ordinance also
establishes three permits available to operate mobility sharing (bikes, low power vehicles
(scooters), or vehicle sharing). The ordinance took effect on May 10, 2019.
On March 9, 2020, staff provided council with a study session report to recap the 2019 mobility
sharing season and related community engagement. In that report, the 2019 season was
summarized with trip data, community feedback, and next steps.
On April 10, 2020, the city opened a request for proposal (RFP) for mobility sharing companies
for the 2020 season. Staff received one application and it was not accepted. The vendor was
denied mainly for their economic model which required the city to find dedicated funds to
provide a program. To create a similar-sized program (125 devices) to the 2019 season, the city
would have needed to find funds totaling over $250,000. Interest from mobility sharing
companies was also greatly suppressed by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, no
mobility sharing companies operated in the city in 2020.
On April 9, 2021, the city opened a new RFP for mobility sharing companies for the 2021
season. At the writing of this report, staff has received one application from Bird Rides Inc.
(Bird).
No other scooter, bike or vehicle sharing companies responded to our RFP. However, there are
two additional licenses available. Should additional vendors show interest in deploying in the
city, staff will update the council.
Bird: According to their submittal packet, Bird is “…the first company to implement shared e-
scooter programs in the U.S….Bird is a turn-key e-scooter service operator…[whose operations
are] the most advanced and sustainable in the micro-mobility industry”.
Bird has operated in over 130 markets worldwide. Closer to the Twin Cities, Bird has operated
in communities such as Minneapolis, MN; Wauwatosa, WI; and Midland, MI. In 2021, Bird
currently operates in Minneapolis. On May 4, the City of Golden Valley also approved a license
for Bird where they plan to deploy 100 scooters in May and an additional 50 scooters in June.
Staff has reviewed Bird’s RFP submittal and recommend approving a mobility sharing license for
the 2021 season.
License agreement: If approved, a license agreement will be reviewed and agreed upon by Bird
and the city. The agreement lays out the structure of the pilot program, which has not had any
major changes since its last operation in 2019. A full explanation of the city’s mobility sharing
program structure is in the March 25, 2019 study session report (attached). The previous
season’s license language is attached in the June 17, 2019 council report. If approved, the
mobility sharing license would be valid through March 30, 2022 to coincide with similar licenses
in Minneapolis.
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 4b) Page 3
Title: Approve mobility sharing license for Bird Rides Inc.
A maximum of 250 devices, split among all licensees, will be authorized by the city. The city will
evaluate the performance of the program during its length and can increase or decrease the
maximum number of devices allowed based on performance metrics and ordinance
compliance.
Website: Further information regarding the city’s mobility sharing program can be found on the
city’s website at: https://www.stlouispark.org/how-do-i/learn-about/mobility-sharing.
Next steps: If approved, city staff and Bird will prepare for beginning the mobility sharing
season. This includes agreeing on a license agreement, confirming a timeline for
implementation, and expectations for community engagement and responsiveness. In their
submittal packet, Bird proposes to deploy scooters yet in May with 50 scooters in the first
week. By the end of their second week, they propose to deploy up to 125 scooters.
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 4b) Page 4
Title: Approve mobility sharing license for Bird Rides Inc.
Resolution No. 21-____
Resolution approving a mobility sharing license for Bird Rides Inc. (Bird)
Whereas, City Code sections 30-212 to 30-258 regulate mobility sharing operations within
the City of St. Louis Park; and,
Whereas, the goal of the shared mobility program is to decrease the use of personal
vehicles, increase access to public transit, increase the use of active transportation, ensure safe
and equitable access to emerging transportation technologies, and ensure alignment with the
work of the city’s strategic priorities; and,
Whereas, the city has reviewed the RFP submittal provided by Bird Rides Inc. and
recommend their approval for a mobility sharing license; and,
Whereas, St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options for people to make
their way around the city comfortably, safely, and reliably; and,
Now therefore be it resolved by the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park that Bird
Rides Inc. is hereby approved for a mobility sharing license valid through March 30, 2022.
Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the City Council May 17, 2021
Thomas K. Harmening, city manager Jake Spano, mayor
Attest:
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: May 17, 2021
Consent agenda item: 4c
Executive summary
Title: Accept donation from First Response Mental Health
Recommended action: Motion to adopt Resolution approving acceptance of software and
services for two years valued at $9,360 from First Response Mental Health through their
PeerConnect application for the St. Louis Park police department.
Policy consideration: Does the city council wish to accept the gift with restrictions on its use?
Summary: State statute requires city council’s acceptance of donations. This requirement is
necessary in order to make sure the city council has knowledge of any restrictions placed on the
use of each donation prior to it being expended.
Brief description of this service: With PeerConnect each member of the organization has access
to peer support, health and wellness tools and articles, self-assessments, mental health resources
and more, 24/7-wherever they are whenever they need. Police department staff will be able to
connect with our peer support team members and mental health providers directly through the
application.
First Response Mental Health is offering a three-year contract for their services and software
and have agreed to waive the set-up costs and are donating the first two years of service fees
valued at $9,360. First Response Mental Health wishes to reserve the right to fundraise for the
cost of the first two years of service. They generally intend to do this by seeking grants or other
funding sources from organizations interested in promoting the mental health and well-being
of first responders. In the event that First Response Mental Health is unable to secure such
funding, First Response Mental Health will be solely responsible for the cost of those first two
years of the contract. The third year of the contract will be budgeted for and will cost $4,680.
This contract allows us to cancel the service at any time with a 90-day notice. Therefore, if we
do not find the software and services to be useful, we could potentially cancel the contract
before there is any cost to the city.
The city attorney has reviewed this matter. His opinion is that state law permits the payment of
such expenses by this organization, regardless of whether the funds come from primary or
secondary sources. It is treated as a gift to the city and therefore needs to be a resolution
adopted by the city council, determining that accepting this gift furthers the police department’s
commitment to creating a healthy work force with access to peer and professional mental
health support.
Financial or budget considerations: If approved the city will budget for the cost of the third
year under the contract.
Supporting documents: Resolution
PeerConnect proposal
Prepared by: Mike Harcey, police chief
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 4c) Page 2
Title: Accept donation from First Response Mental Health
Resolution No. 21-___
Accept donation from First Response Mental Health
Whereas, the city of St. Louis Park is required by State statute to authorize acceptance of
any donations; and
Whereas, the city council must also ratify any restrictions placed on the donation by the
donor; and
Now therefore be it resolved, First Response Mental Health has graciously donated the
use of their software and services for two years at no cost to our department, valued at $9,360.
It is further resolved, by the city council of the city of St. Louis Park that the gift is hereby
accepted with thanks to First Response Mental Health for their generosity and support of the
police department’s commitment to creating a healthy work force with access to peer and
professional mental health support.
Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the City Council May 17, 2021
Thomas K. Harmening, city manager Jake Spano, mayor
Attest:
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk
First Response Mental Health
231 Red River Rd, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 1A7 Canada
(888) 721-9611
firstresponsemh.com
PeerConnect: Peer Support, Health, and Wellness Tool
Proposal for
St Louis Park Police Department
January 21st, 2021
FRMH (Jan,2021)|1
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 4c)
Title: Accept donation from First Response Mental Health Page 3
First Response Mental Health
231 Red River Rd, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 1A7 Canada
(888) 721-9611
firstresponsemh.com
Dear St Louis Park Police Department,
Thank you for considering PeerConnect as your organization's health,wellness, and peer
support management system which provides a suite of wellness tools for your employees and
colleagues in one easy-to-use access point. PeerConnect was developed for first responders
with input from EMS, Police, Fire, and mental health professionals; this system is designed to
maximize an organization’s wellness impact on members, reduce the stigma associated with
mental health and operational stress injury, and dramatically lower the costs and increase the
efficiency of running these programs.
PeerConnect comes as a ready-to-use, mature product, but also features high degrees of
customization and potential for scalability. It allows your members to access trusted internal or
external support, and also extends contextualized resources for new recruits, retirees, family
members, or other identified external roles.
With PeerConnect each member of your organization has access to peer support, health and
wellness tools and articles, self assessment, mental health resources and more, 24/7– wherever they
are, and whenever they need.
Organizations are becoming more concerned with the mental health and well-being of their
members, however, without a management system it can be difficult to manage requests and
recommendations for support, and often organizations are left without structured data to drive
insights and change. PeerConnect provides your organization with a peer support management
system and health and wellness tools that provide one access point for all members.
✔Streamlined access to Health and Wellness, Peer Support, and customized content
Provide a trusted access point for all members where information is contextualized by role.
Information is fully customizable, or utilizes sharing and automated features.
✔Reduce barriers, stigma and anxiety
Proactive features engage all members and reduce the barriers to accessing resources and support.
✔De-Identified Metrics, tracking and reporting
Automated de-identified data allows reports to be created in minutes, not days, and protects the anonymity
of your members. Process-driven contact reports ensure mandatory information is collected.
Thank you,
Jack Bull , Business Development Manager
jack@firstresponsemh.com
FRMH (Jan,2021)|2
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 4c)
Title: Accept donation from First Response Mental Health Page 4
First Response Mental Health
231 Red River Rd, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 1A7 Canada
(888) 721-9611
firstresponsemh.com
Overview
FRMH’s wellness management system,PeerConnect,reduces time spent coordinating your
peer support program, and provides one access point for all health and wellness information
that is customizable to your organization.More than just Peer Support Management System,
PeerConnect is a fully customizable and comprehensive wellness tool, resource hub, and
top-down information source co-developed with first responder organizations.
Safe and Secure
The safety of your members is the highest priority. PeerConnect has
passed several compliance tests for privacy and high security, and
works alongside your IT department to accommodate your needs.
Most importantly, no conversations take place within the app, and no
user health-related data is stored in the system.
PeerConnect Features
PeerConnect works alongside your organization at any stage of your
wellness program, and can enhance your current initiatives and
employee assistance program with features, resources, and peer
support management that utilizes proactive and reactive models.
PeerConnect offers a dynamic, yet easy to manage solution for
organizational wellness.
1. Proactive Peer Support
Proactively connect every member of your organization with their
personalized peer team for structured mental health and wellness
conversations. Scheduled, proactive conversations capture those who
do not actively seek out support, and normalizes mental health
conversations, leading to reduced stigma. With PeerConnect the
coordination efforts for both the peer support team and the coordinator is reduced by up to
90%.
Multiple ways to Connect to Support
○Reactive Support:The member can request contact at any time at the press of a button.
○Recommended Support:Supervisors can recommend contact and the peer support
team fulfills the request.
○Proactive Support:The organization can schedule proactive connections and ensure full
member coverage, and reduce barriers to asking for support.
○Each member customizes their own support team to their preferences: members
pre-select which members of the peer support team will receive their support requests.
○Connect members to internal or external Psychologists,Chaplains, and/or Mental
Health Professionals.
FRMH (Jan,2021)|3
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 4c)
Title: Accept donation from First Response Mental Health Page 5
First Response Mental Health
231 Red River Rd, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 1A7 Canada
(888) 721-9611
firstresponsemh.com
2. Sharing Capabilities (Optional)
○Expand on available support for your members by sharing peer support
teams with other agencies you choose and trust
○Choose which resources and health information you want to share from
other trusted agencies to your own members
○Create articles, resources and mental health information you want provide
to other agencies
3. Newsfeed and Wellness Tools
○Displays content, articles, internal posts, links, videos, events, and initiatives
created or shared by you.
○Create your own content, or access trusted information and professional
resources to provide to your members.
○Access trusted mental health resources from professional organizations.
○Post content or alerts to specific roles or groups within your agency
○Top-down communication with your members
○Send push notifications directly to your members’ phones
○Receive engagement reports;know what your members are interested in
4. Additional Tools
Resources, location based services,events,self-assessment tools, integration
with your EFAP, CISM,fitness & physical health programs, FAQ Section,extended
support for recruitment engagement,retirees, new hires,and more.
5. Aggregate Reporting
Peer support teams submit electronic post-contact forms customized to your
organization. These forms populate live reporting; create wellness KPIs and metrics that
simplify reporting over any time period. Reporting data is de-identified to protect the
anonymity of the individual.
6. Family Support Management
PeerConnect provides a platform to support family members of employees by
providing family specific app access, resources, events, and information. These relevant
and accessible resources help provide support for spouses/partners and children who
encounter situations and stressors as a result of their proximity to loved ones who work
in a high-stress environment.
FRMH (Jan,2021)|4
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 4c)
Title: Accept donation from First Response Mental Health Page 6
First Response Mental Health
231 Red River Rd, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 1A7 Canada
(888) 721-9611
firstresponsemh.com
7. Recruitment Management
Collect contact information and equip and retain future recruits by including them
in their own role within the program. Build interest and keep potential employees in the
know by sharing newsfeed items, physical fitness tips, training tips, survey opportunities,
new hire advice, answers to frequently asked questions, and share important dates and
events.
Why PeerConnect?
Peer Support at the push of a button ✔
Private and anonymous support for your members ✔
Comprehensive wellness resources in your pocket ✔
Customizable to your organization's needs ✔
24/7 Coverage - No one falls through the cracks ✔
Reduce mental health related stigma ✔
Wellness KPIs, Metrics, and engagement reports ✔
Access trusted mental health & wellness information ✔
Decrease lost time - STD, LTD, OSI, and overtime ✔
Enhances CISM, EFAP, fitness and other programs ✔
Incorporates and enhances current support ✔
Location based services ✔
Share peer support teams with like-minded organizations ✔
FRMH (Jan,2021)|5
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 4c)
Title: Accept donation from First Response Mental Health Page 7
First Response Mental Health
231 Red River Rd, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 1A7 Canada
(888) 721-9611
firstresponsemh.com
Pricing and Options
*Services do not include Mental Health Training Program for Peer Supports
* Prices are listed in USD
PeerConnect: Proactive Peer Support
Includes ○Peer Support, Health and Wellness App
○Customized logos and colours
○Deployment in Apple AppStore and Google Play (Android)
○Contact form (1)
Standard
Pricing
System setup fee: $4,500.00 Waived
Maintenance fee: $150 / month
General users:Starting at $3.00 per user per month,tiered on a
decreasing basis for additional users (large org line)
Application Training
Pricing
Virtual App Training Workshops
1. App-Only Training for Peer Supports $30 per person
2. Administrator System Management Training $200 per admin
Assumptions
○Based on an organization size of approximately (80) employees;
○Proposal and pricing are USD and valid for 30 days,monthly pricing available.
○User-related cost totals are automatically calculated and shown within the
system; e.g. if 10 more users are added bringing the total to (90), the system will
calculate totals and billing automatically.
FRMH (Jan,2021)|6
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 4c)
Title: Accept donation from First Response Mental Health Page 8
First Response Mental Health
231 Red River Rd, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 1A7 Canada
(888) 721-9611
firstresponsemh.com
Annual Payment Schedule
PeerConnect Year 1 Year 2 Year 3
System Setup $4500 $0 $0
Maintenance $1800 $1800 $1800
Users $2,880 $2,880 $2,880
App Training tbd*n/a n/a
Annual Total $9,180 /y $4,680 /y $4,680 /y
Consortium
Pricing
$0/y $0/y $4,680/y
Timeline
Activity Client Commitment Duration
Kick Off and App Deployment 2 hrs 1 week
Discovery (colours, logos, contact form, etc)1 hr 1 week
Configuration (look-feel, forms, peers, supervisors)3 hrs 1 week
Training and Launch 4 hrs 1 week
Thank you for considering First Response Mental Health,
Our team welcomes the opportunity to further elaborate on this proposal and
answer additional questions that you may have about partnering with FRMH. If this
proposal is acceptable to you, we will further discuss a contract document for
signature(s).
Please do not hesitate to call or email – we are always happy to be a resource or
support you when sharing this information. We look forward to speaking soon.
Thank you,
Jack Bull , Business Development Manager
jack@firstresponsemh.com
FRMH (Jan,2021)|7
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 4c)
Title: Accept donation from First Response Mental Health Page 9
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: May 17, 2021
Consent agenda item: 4d
Executive summary
Title: Resolution calling for a public hearing on granting host approval for Groves Academy
revenue bonds
Recommended action: Motion to adopt Resolution calling for a public hearing on June 21, 2021
regarding host approval for the Groves Academy project at 3200 Highway 100 South to be
financed with revenue bonds to be issued by the City of Mayer.
Policy consideration: Is the Council comfortable with allowing Groves Academy to issue
revenue obligations thru the City of Mayer?
Summary: Groves Academy would like to finance the renovation, improvement, and equipping
of the Borrower’s independent co-educational day school facilities located at 3200 Highway 100
South in the City, refund the Issuer’s outstanding Educational Facility Revenue Bonds (Groves
Academy Project), Series 2014B, the proceeds of which were used to finance and refinance the
renovation, expansion, construction, improvement, and equipping of the Academy (the
“Original Project” and, together with the Renovation Project the “Project”), and finance the
costs of issuing the bonds.
Groves Academy would like the bonds to be designated as tax-exempt obligations (or bank-
qualified) which, under the IRS code, cannot exceed $10 million in a calendar year. Since the
city already used the bank-qualified exemption on bonds issued this year, Groves Academy
found another city (Mayer) that has not used their bank-qualified exemption. As we have done
in the past, the city is required to hold a public hearing since the project is in the City of St.
Louis Park. By using the bank-qualified exemption from the city of Mayer it will provide some
interest rate savings to Groves Academy.
Financial or budget considerations: All out-of-pocket expenses of the city will be covered by
Groves Academy. The bonds will not constitute a general or moral obligation of the city and
will not be secured by or payable from any property or assets of the city and will not be secured
by or payable from any property or assets of the city and will not be secured by any taxing
power of the city.
Strategic priority consideration: Not applicable.
Supporting documents: Resolution
Kennedy and Graven (bond attorney) summary letter
Prepared by: Melanie Schmitt, chief financial officer
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 4d) Page 2
Title: Resolution calling for a public hearing on granting host approval for Groves Academy revenue bonds
Resolution No. 21-____
A resolution calling for a public hearing on consent to the issuance of
educational facilities revenue bonds and authorizing the publication of a notice
of public hearing (Groves Academy project)
Be it resolved by the City Council (the “City Council”) of the City of St. Louis Park,
Hennepin County, Minnesota (the “City”) as follows:
Section 1. Minnesota Statutes, Sections 469.152 through 469.165, as amended,
relating to municipal industrial development (the “Act”), gives municipalities the power to issue
revenue obligations for the purpose of promoting the welfare of the state by the active
attraction and encouragement and development of economically sound industry and
commerce to prevent so far as possible the emergence of blighted and marginal lands and
areas of chronic unemployment.
Section 2. The City has received from Groves Academy, a Minnesota nonprofit
corporation and 501(c)(3) organization (the “Borrower”), a proposal that the City of Mayer,
Minnesota undertake a program to assist in financing, among other things, a Project described
in Exhibit A, which is located in the City, through the issuance of revenue bonds or obligations
(in one or more series) (the “Bonds”) pursuant to the Act.
Section 3. The City has been advised that a public hearing and City Council host
approval of and consent to the financing of the Project is required under the Act and Section
147(f) of the Internal Revenue Code because the facilities to be financed by the Bonds are
located in the City.
Section 4. A public hearing on the proposal of the Borrower will be held at the time
and place set forth in the Notice of Public Hearing attached hereto as Exhibit A.
Section 5. The City Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to cause notice of the
hearing to be given one publication in the official newspaper of the City and a newspaper of
general circulation available in the City, not less than 14 days nor more than 30 days prior to
the date fixed for the hearing, substantially in the form of the attached Notice of Public
Hearing.
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 4d) Page 3
Title: Resolution calling for a public hearing on granting host approval for Groves Academy revenue bonds
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by City Council
Member _______________, and, after full discussion thereof and upon a vote being taken
thereon, the following city council members voted in favor thereof:
And the following city council members voted in opposition:
Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the City Council May 17, 2021
Thomas K. Harmening, city manager Jake Spano, mayor
Attest:
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 4d) Page 4
Title: Resolution calling for a public hearing on granting host approval for Groves Academy revenue bonds
Exhibit A
Notice of public hearing on a proposal for consent to the issuance of educational facilities
revenue bonds for Groves Academy project
Notice is hereby given that the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota (the
“City”) will meet at the City Hall, 5005 Minnetonka Boulevard, in the City, at 6:30 p.m. on
Monday, June 21, 2021 to consider giving host approval and consent to the issuance by the City
of Mayer, Minnesota (the “Issuer”) of revenue bonds, in one or more series (the “Bonds”),
under Minnesota Statutes, Sections 469.152 through 469.165, as amended (the “Act”), in order
to finance the cost of a project located in the City.
Groves Academy, a Minnesota nonprofit corporation and 501(c)(3) organization (the
“Borrower”), proposes to (i) finance the renovation, improvement, and equipping of the
Borrower’s independent co-educational day school facilities (the “Academy”) located at 3200
Highway 100 South in the City (the “Renovation Project”), (ii) refund the Issuer’s outstanding
Educational Facility Revenue Bonds (Groves Academy Project), Series 2014A, and Educational
Facility Revenue Bonds (Groves Academy Project), Series 2014B, the proceeds of which were
used to finance and refinance the renovation, expansion, construction, improvement, and
equipping of the Academy (the “Original Project” and, together with the Renovation Project,
the “Project”), and (iii) finance the costs of issuing the Bonds.
The maximum estimated principal amount of the Bonds to be issued to finance the
Project is $6,800,000.
The Bonds, if and when issued, will not constitute a charge, lien or encumbrance upon
any property of the City or the Issuer, except the Project, and such obligations will not be a
charge against the general credit or taxing powers of the City or the Issuer but will be payable
from sums to be paid by the Borrower pursuant to a revenue agreement.
At the time and place fixed for the public hearing, the City Council will give all persons
who appear at the hearing an opportunity to express their views with respect to the proposal.
Written comments will be considered if submitted at the above City office on or before the
date of the hearing.
Offices in
Minneapolis
Saint Paul
St. Cloud
Fifth Street Towers
150 South Fifth Street, Suite 700
Minneapolis, MN 55402
(612) 337-9300 telephone
(612) 337-9310 fax
kennedy-graven.com
Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer
JULIE A. EDDINGTON
Attorney at Law
Direct Dial (612) 337-9213
Email: jeddington@kennedy-graven.com
May 11, 2021
Melanie Schmitt, Chief Financial Officer
City of St. Louis Park
5005 Minnetonka Boulevard
St. Louis Park, MN 55416
Re: Resolution calling public hearing on providing host approval for a project to be financed and
refinanced with the proceeds revenue obligations to be issued by the City of Mayer
Dear Melanie,
Groves Academy, a Minnesota nonprofit corporation (the “Borrower”), proposes to (i) finance the
renovation, improvement, and equipping of the Borrower’s independent co-educational day school facilities
(the “Academy”) located at 3200 Highway 100 South, St. Louis Park, Minnesota (the “Renovation Project”);
and (ii) refund the outstanding Educational Facility Revenue Bonds (Groves Academy Project),
Series 2014A, and Educational Facility Revenue Bonds (Groves Academy Project), Series 2014B, issued by
the City of Mayer, Minnesota (the “City of Mayer”), the proceeds of which were used to finance and
refinance the renovation, expansion, construction, improvement, and equipping of the Academy (the
“Original Project,” and together with the Renovation Project, the “Project”).
In April 2021, the City issued general obligation bonds in the amount of $12,385,000 and does not
have capacity to designate any additional bonds issued this year as qualified tax-exempt obligations (or
“bank qualified”) for purposes of Section 265(b)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the
“Code”). As a result, the Borrower has determined to find another conduit issuer to issue bonds to finance
the Project. Because the City of Mayer issued bonds in 2014 to finance the Original Project, the Borrower
has proposed that the City of Mayer issue one or more series of revenue obligations (the “Bonds”) in the
estimated maximum principal amount of $6,800,000 and loan the proceeds thereof to the Borrower to
finance the Project.
In order for the City of Mayer to issue the Bonds, the City must grant “host approval” to the issuance
of the Bonds, following a duly noticed public hearing, in accordance with Minnesota Statutes,
Sections 469.152 through 469.1655, as amended, and the Code. Enclosed is a resolution for consideration by
the City Council on May 17, 2021, which calls for a public hearing to be conducted by the City Council on
June 21, 2021 for purposes of granting host approval to the issuance of the Bonds by the City of Mayer.
The proposed Bonds will be issued as conduit revenue bonds of the City of Mayer secured solely by
the revenues derived from the loan or other revenue agreements executed by the Borrower and from other
security provided by the Borrower. The Bonds will not constitute a general or moral obligation of the City
and will not be secured by or payable from any property or assets of the City and will not be secured by any
taxing power of the City. The Bonds will not be subject to any debt limitation imposed on the City and the
issuance of the Bonds will not have any adverse impact on the credit rating of the City, even in the event that
Page 5 City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 4d)
Title: Resolution calling for a public hearing on granting host approval for Groves Academy revenue bonds
Error! Unknown document property name.
the Borrower encounters financial difficulties with respect to the Project. The issuance of the Bonds by the
City of Mayer will not affect the general obligation bonds previously issued by the City this year or the City’s
ability to issue additional general obligation bonds or conduit revenue bonds in calendar year 2021.
The Borrower will pay the out-of-pocket expenses of the City with respect to this transaction. If the
City Council adopts the enclosed resolution, Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP, acting as bond counsel to the
City of Mayer, will handle the publication of the notice of public hearing on behalf of the City. In addition,
the City Council will be asked to adopt a resolution granting host approval following the public hearing next
month.
Please contact me if you have questions regarding the foregoing.
Sincerely,
Julie Eddington
Page 6 City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 4d)
Title: Resolution calling for a public hearing on granting host approval for Groves Academy revenue bonds
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: May 17, 2021
Discussion item: 5a
Executive summary
Title: Appointment of representatives to boards and commissions
Recommended action: Motion to appoint representatives to the boards and commissions as
listed in exhibit A.
Policy consideration: Does the city council wish to appoint the representatives listed in exhibit
A to serve on the boards and commissions listed for the respective terms?
Summary: The city received a great response from individuals interested in serving on a city
board or commission. A total of 45 applications were received for open positions on the
Community Technology Advisory Commission, Environment & Sustainability Commission,
Housing Authority, Human Rights Commission, Planning Commission, Police Advisory
Commission. The city council evaluated all applications that were submitted. Interview panels,
consisting of three council members and the board/commission chair or designated
representative, conducted interviews and provided the recommendations in exhibit A.
Because there are more applicants than positions available, not all candidates will be appointed
to a board or commission at this time. Applications for candidates not selected will be kept on
file for the period of 1 year. Each interview panel has recommended a first alternate. Should a
position be vacated during the term this next year, the city council will attempt to fill the open
position with the recommended alternate or from the existing candidate pool if the alternate is
not available.
Each of the individuals appointed by the city council will receive notification of their appointment
and will participate in an orientation program with their staff liaison.
Financial or budget considerations: Not applicable.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to creating opportunities to build
social capital through community engagement.
Supporting documents: Exhibit A
Prepared by: Debbie Fischer, administrative services office assistant
Reviewed by: Maria Solano, interim administrative services officer
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 5a) Page 2
Title: Appointment of representatives to boards and commissions
Exhibit A
Name Board/Commission Term
Expiration
Catherine Courtney Housing Authority 5/31/2026
Thom Miller Housing Authority 5/31/2024
Jessica Kraft Planning Commission 5/31/2024
Matthew Eckholm Planning Commission 5/31/2024
Joffrey Wilson Planning Commission 5/31/2022
Sam Tift Planning Commission 5/31/2022
Konnor Slaats Community Technology Advisory Commission 5/31/2022
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: May 17, 2021
Public hearing: 6a
Executive summary
Title: S&F Dining, LLC dba Dancing Ganesha – on-sale wine and 3.2 liquor license
Recommended action: Mayor to open public hearing, take public testimony, and close public
hearing. Motion to approve application from S&F Dining, LLC dba Dancing Ganesha for an on-
sale wine and on-sale 3.2 liquor license located at 8124 Hwy 7.
Policy consideration: Does the applicant meet the requirements for the issuance of an on-sale
wine and on-sale 3.2 liquor license?
Summary: The city received an application from S&F Dining, LLC dba Dancing Ganesha for an
on-sale wine and on-sale 3.2 liquor license for the property located at 8124 Hwy 7. This
location, which was previously run as Smashburger, is undergoing cosmetic changes, but no
structural changes will occur. Indoor seating will allow for up to 78 guests at approximately
2,301 square feet with no outdoor dining available. Dancing Ganesha will provide authentic
fresh Indian food and all staff will be trained to follow state regulations regarding the sale of
alcohol.
Kuljit Singh is the sole owner of S&F Dining, LLC and holds 100 percent ownership in the
business. Anthony Fernandes will be the store manager and will oversee the day to day sale of
alcohol. Both Singh and Fernandes have experience in restaurant operations and have been
involved in the Dancing Ganesha located in Minneapolis. Service is expected to begin early to
mid-June and staff will be following any COVID guidelines that remain in effect during that time.
The police department conducted a full background investigation, and nothing was discovered
that would warrant denial of the license. The application and police report are on file in the city
clerk’s office. The required notice of the public hearing was published on May 6, 2021. If the
license is approved, nothing will be issued until all requirements have been met with the city
Building and Energy department, Hennepin County, and the State Alcohol and Gambling
Enforcement Division.
Financial or budget considerations: Fees include $500 for the background investigation and
$2,750 for an on-sale wine and on-sale 3.2 liquor license. Pursuant to city code provisions, the
license fee will be pro-rated for the remainder of the license term.
Strategic priority consideration: Not applicable.
Supporting documents: None
Prepared by: Chase Peterson-Etem, office assistant
Reviewed by: Melissa Kennedy, city clerk
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: May 17, 2021
Action agenda item: 8a
Executive summary
Title: Second reading of an ordinance amending St. Louis Park Home Rule Charter
Recommended action: Motion to approve the second reading and adopt Ordinance amending
the St. Louis Park Home Rule Charter to implement gender-neutral language in Sections 2.05,
12.02 (2), 12.18, 12.19, and 12.20 and to correct minor legal inconsistencies in Sections 3.01
and 11.03, and to approve a summary ordinance for publication. A unanimous vote of all 7
councilmembers is required for approval.
Policy consideration: Does the city council want to amend the St. Louis Park Home Rule Charter
by ordinance to implement the use of gender-neutral language and correct legal inconsistencies?
Summary: At their meeting on April 6, 2021 the Charter Commission approved a
recommendation to amend specific sections of the St. Louis Park Home Rule Charter by
ordinance. This recommendation was made in response to a previous request from the city
council to review the charter to update outdated language and to identify any direct conflicts
with state law. The Charter Commission has recommended that sections of the charter be
updated to implement the use of gender-neutral language. Following a review by the city
attorney, the commission also recommended the correction of two minor legal inconsistencies
that were identified as conflicting with state law.
Minnesota Statutes 410.12 provides the ways in which a city charter can be amended. In the
past, amendments to the charter have been done by ordinance. This requires unanimous
approval of the city council. A public hearing on the proposed amendment was held on May 3,
2021 and the city council approved the first reading of the ordinance with no changes.
Financial or budget considerations: Not applicable.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to being a leader in racial equity
and inclusion in order to create a more just and inclusive community for all.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Ordinance
Summary ordinance for publication
M.S. 410.12
Prepared by: Melissa Kennedy, city clerk
Reviewed by: Maria Solano, interim administrative services officer
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 8a) Page 2
Title: Second reading of an ordinance amending St. Louis Park Home Rule Charter
Discussion
What is the process to amend the St. Louis Park Home Rule Charter?
In the past, amendments to the charter have been enacted by ordinance in accordance with the
procedure outlined in M.S. § 410.12, Subd. 7. Amendment by Ordinance.
“Upon recommendation of the charter commission the city council may enact a charter
amendment by ordinance. Within one month of receiving a recommendation to amend the
charter by ordinance, the city must publish notice of a public hearing on the proposal and the
notice must contain the text of the proposed amendment. The city council must hold the public
hearing on the proposed charter amendment at least two weeks but not more than one month
after the notice is published. Within one month of the public hearing, the city council must vote
on the proposed charter amendment ordinance. The ordinance is enacted if it receives an
affirmative vote of all members of the city council and is approved by the mayor and published
as in the case of other ordinances. An ordinance amending a city charter shall not become
effective until 90 days after passage and publication or at such later date as is fixed in the
ordinance. Within 60 days after passage and publication of such an ordinance, a petition
requesting a referendum on the ordinance may be filed with the city clerk. The petition must be
signed by registered voters equal in number to at least five percent of the registered voters in
the city or 2,000, whichever is less. If the requisite petition is filed within the prescribed period,
the ordinance shall not become effective until it is approved by the voters as in the case of
charter amendments submitted by the charter commission, the council, or by petition of the
voters, except that the council may submit the ordinance at any general or special election held
at least 60 days after submission of the petition, or it may reconsider its action in adopting the
ordinance. As far as practicable the requirements of subdivisions 1 to 3 apply to petitions
submitted under this section, to an ordinance amending a charter, and to the filing of such
ordinance when approved by the voters.”
Can the city council make changes to the proposed charter amendment?
Because statute requires that the notice of the public hearing include the proposed text of the
amendment, the council must vote on the amendment as presented.
If approved, what is the timeline for the proposed amendment to take effect?
•4/15 Notice of hearing published
•5/3 Public Hearing/first reading of ordinance
•5/17 Second reading of ordinance
•5/27 Ordinance published
•7/26 60-day deadline (for petition)
•8/25 Ordinance Effective Date (90 days after Passage and Publication)
Charter Commission Recommendation
On April 6, 2021 the Charter Commission made the following recommendation:
•Amend the St. Louis Park Home Rule Charter by ordinance to implement gender neutral
language and correct minor legal inconsistencies in Sections 3.01 and 11.03.
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 8a) Page 3
Title: Second reading of an ordinance amending St. Louis Park Home Rule Charter
Ordinance No. ____-21
An ordinance amending the St. Louis Park Home Rule Charter sections
2.05, 3.01, 11.03, 12.02 (2), 12.18 (a), 12.18(b), 12.19, and 12.20
by implementing gender neutral language and correcting
minor legal inconsistencies
PREAMBLE
Whereas, pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 410.12, Subd. 7 the St. Louis Park Charter
Commission has recommended to the city council that the charter be amended as provided
herein; and
Whereas, Minn. Stat. § 410.12, Subd. 7 provides that upon recommendation of the
charter commission the city council may enact a charter amendment by ordinance.
The City Council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota does ordain:
SECTION 1. The St. Louis Park Home Rule Charter is hereby amended by deleting
stricken language and adding underscored language to the following sections:
Section 2.05. Vacancies in the council.
A vacancy in the council shall be deemed to exist if any person elected thereto fails to qualify
on or before the date of the second (2nd) regular meeting of the new council. A vacancy shall
also be deemed to exist due to the death, resignation, removal from office, removal from the
city, removal of a ward councilmember from his/her their ward, continuous absence from the
city for more than three (3) months, or conviction of a felony of any such person whether
before or after his/her their qualification, or the failure of any councilmember without good
cause to attend any council meeting for a period of three (3) consecutive months. In each such
case the council shall, promptly by resolution, declare a vacancy of the remainder of the term
and appoint an eligible person to fill the vacancy unless the vacancy occurs within ninety (90)
days of the next regularly scheduled city or state election. In the latter case, the council shall
appoint an eligible person who shall serve until the following year's regularly scheduled
election. The term of the appointed person shall extend to the first (1st) regularly scheduled
council meeting of a new year following a regularly scheduled city or state election. The council
shall call a special election concurrently with the next regularly scheduled city or state election
for the purpose of electing an eligible person to fill the remainder, if any, of the unexpired term
created by a vacancy.
Section 3.01. Council meetings.
On the first (1st) regularly scheduled meeting of a new year following a municipal election as
specified in Sections 4.02 and 4.03 of this charter, the council shall meet at the city hall at the
usual time for the holding of council meetings. At this time, the newly elected members of the
council shall assume their duties. Thereafter, the council shall meet at such times as may be
prescribed by resolution, except that it shall meet at a fixed time not less than once a month.
The mayor or any three (3) members of the council may call special meetings of the council
upon at least twelve (12) hours' notice to each member of the council. Such notice shall be
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 8a) Page 4
Title: Second reading of an ordinance amending St. Louis Park Home Rule Charter
delivered personally to each member or be left in a conspicuous place at the residence if no
such person be found there. The presence of any member of the council at a special meeting
shall constitute a waiver of any formal notice unless the councilmember appears for the special
purpose of objecting to the holding of such meeting. The council may provide by ordinance a
means by which a minority of the councilmembers may compel the attendance of absent
members. Except as otherwise provided by law, all meetings of the council shall be public, and
any person shall have access to the minutes and records thereof at all reasonable times. The
mayor and councilmembers shall each have one vote.
Section 11.03. Damage suits.
The State of Minnesota has regulated actions for the recovery of damages for injuries to
persons and property by statute. Therefore, the Minnesota Tort Claims Act, applicable to
Minnesota municipalities as it may be amended from time to time, M.S.A. § 3.736 M.S.A. Ch.
466, is hereby adopted by reference. The city expressly preserves all rights and defenses
accorded to it by law, including the right to bring claims for contribution or indemnity.
Section 12.02. Definitions.
(2)Candidate means any individual who seeks nomination or election as a public official of
the City of St. Louis Park. An individual shall be deemed to seek nomination or election if he/she
they have taken the action necessary under the ordinances of the City of St. Louis Park to
qualify for nomination or election to an office, or has have received contributions or made
expenditures in excess of one hundred dollars ($100.00), or has have given consent, implicit or
explicit, for any other person to receive contributions or make expenditures in excess of one
hundred dollars ($100.00) with a view to bringing about his/her their nomination for election or
election to an office.
Section 12.18. Personal financial conflicts of public officials.
(a)Contracts void. Except for any contract permitted by M.S.A. § 471.88, any public
official who is authorized to take part in any manner in making a sale, lease or
contract in his/her their official capacity shall have no personal financial interest in
that sale, lease or contract or personally benefit financially therefrom unless the
effect on the public official's personal financial interest is no greater than on any
other person and/or property similarly situated. Any sale, lease, or contract entered
into by the city with regard to which a public official has acted in violation of this
section is void. Any money which is paid by the council in violation of this paragraph
may be recovered from any and all persons interested therein. Any vote pursuant to
M.S.A. § 471.88 must be unanimous by council.
(b)Noncontractual transactions voidable. Any public official who in the discharge of
his/her their duties would be authorized to take an action, vote, or make a decision
concerning a noncontractual transaction of the city which would affect the public
official's interests, unless the effect on his/her their interests is no greater than on
other persons and/or property similarly situated, shall disqualify himself/herself
themselves from such action, vote or decision. Any transaction entered into by the
city with regard to which a public official has acted in violation of this paragraph is
voidable at the option of the council. Any money, which was paid by the council in
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 8a) Page 5
Title: Second reading of an ordinance amending St. Louis Park Home Rule Charter
violation of this paragraph, may be recovered from any and all persons interested
therein.
Section 12.19. Financial conflicts of associates of public officials; contracts and transactions
voidable.
Any public official who in the discharge of his/her their duties would be authorized to take an
action, vote or make a decision concerning a contractual or non-contractual transaction which
would affect the interests of his/her their associates, unless the effect on the interests of
his/her their associates is no greater than on other persons and/or property similarly situated,
shall disqualify himself/herself themselves from such action, vote or decision.
Any contract or transaction entered into by the city with regard to which a public official has
acted in violation of this section is voidable at the option of the council. Any money, which was
paid by the council in violation of this section, may be recovered from any and all persons
interested therein.
Section 12.20. Gifts and favors.
No public official shall accept any valuable gift, whether in the form of money, service, loan,
thing or promise, from any person, firm or corporation which to his/her their knowledge is
concerned, directly or indirectly, in any manner whatsoever in business dealings with the city;
nor shall any public official (1) accept any gift, favor or thing of value that may tend to influence
his/her them in the discharge of his/her their duties; or (2) grant in the discharge of his/her
their duties any improper favor, service, or thing of value or accept an offer which would not
have been given if he/she they were not an official; or (3) accept or receive anything of value
through sale or gift of goods or services which would result directly or indirectly from his/her
their position as a public official of the City of St. Louis Park.
SECTION 2. This ordinance shall take effect ninety days after its passage and publication
according to law.
Date of publication of notice of public hearing April 15, 2021
Public hearing and first reading May 3, 2021
Second reading May 17, 2021
Date of publication of adopted ordinance May 27, 2021
Date ordinance takes effect August 25, 2021
Reviewed for Administration Adopted by the city council May 17, 2021
Thomas K. Harmening, city manager Jake Spano, mayor
Attest: Approved as to Form and Execution:
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Soren Mattick, city attorney
City council meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 8a) Page 6
Title: Second reading of an ordinance amending St. Louis Park Home Rule Charter
Summary ordinance for publication
Ordinance No. ____-21
An ordinance amending the St. Louis Park Home Rule Charter sections
2.05, 3.01, 11.03, 12.02 (2), 12.18 (a), 12.18(b), 12.19, and 12.20
by implementing gender neutral language and correcting
minor legal inconsistencies
This ordinance states that the St. Louis Park Home Rule Charter shall be amended by
implementing gender neutral language and correcting two minor legal inconsistencies which
correct references to state statute.
This ordinance shall take effect 90 days after publication.
Adopted by the city council May 17, 2021
Jake Spano /s/
Mayor
A copy of the full text of this ordinance is available for inspection with the city clerk.
Published in St. Louis Park Sailor: May 27, 2021
Meeting: Special study session
Meeting date: May 17, 2021
Discussion item: 1
Executive summary
Title: City manager recruitment discussion
Recommended action: City council to provide direction to consultants and human resources on
next steps in recruitment process.
Policy consideration: Which candidates would council like to interview for the city manager
vacancy? What stakeholder groups would council like to include in next steps of the process?
Summary: Our consultants Charlene Stevens and Carmen Davis of GovHR USA have been
recruiting applicants for the vacant city manager position. The position closed on April 23. The
consultants have pre-screened applicants and identified 13 candidates for council to review.
HR recommends the following process for candidate review by council:
1.Ms. Stevens and Ms. Davis will present information on top candidates to council. All
personal identifying candidate information will be hidden as candidate names are
considered confidential until deemed a finalist by council. This is in accordance with data
practices and reduces the likelihood of inadvertently saying a name out loud at a public
meeting. Candidates must agree to become a finalist before names are released publicly.
2.Ms. Stevens and Ms. Davis will facilitate a discussion about candidates with council to help
identify top candidates selected to interview.
3.All candidate application materials will be provided under confidential separate cover and
should be treated as personnel records subject to data privacy.
4.Ms. Stevens and Ms. Davis will facilitate a discussion about council’s desired next steps in
the process.
Based on the above, council will be asked to identify interview candidates and provide direction
on next steps of the process.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Prepared by: Ali Timpone, interim human resources officer
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
Page 2 Special study session meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: City manager recruitment discussion
Discussion
Background: Charlene Stevens and Carmen Davis, executive search consultants from GovHR
USA, have recruited applicants to fill our vacant city manager position. They will present top
candidates to council and facilitate a discussion to help determine which candidates council
wishes to meet in an interview. It will be important to maintain candidate confidentiality during
these discussions so council is asked to not publicly mention any information about a candidate
that may reveal their identity (i.e., refer to current position at a “similar sized metro suburb”
instead of stating the name of the city).
Semi-finalist interviews (if needed)
If council selects more than four candidates to interview, a first round of virtual semi-finalist
interviews is recommended to occur. Semi-finalist interviews are recommended to be
conducted virtually to ensure COVID-19 safety protocols and to reduce travel requirements for
any out of state applicants. There are two ways of conducting a semi-finalist round of
interviews:
1.All councilmembers interview semi-finalists at a special study session on May 24, 2021. This
must be done at an open public meeting and jeopardizes the confidentiality of candidate
names, which may be a deterrent for candidates.
2.A subcommittee of three councilmembers interview semi-finalists and identify finalists. This
does not need to be done at an open public meeting and therefore preserves applicant
confidentiality.
Finalist interviews
If council selects four or fewer candidates to interview, those candidates will be named finalists
and will proceed to interviews on June 4 and 5, 2021. Council may also wish to identify an
alternate candidate in case one or more candidates choose to withdraw from consideration.
Prior to interviews, finalists will complete an assessment tool which will assist the consultants in
guiding the final interview process and facilitating discussions.
June 4, 2021 is reserved for staff and external stakeholder interview panels. One panel will be
directors and other key staff. Another panel can be external community partners or
stakeholders. Council will be asked which external stakeholders they would like to invite to
participate on an interview panel. Suggestions of organizations or individuals to include are:
SLP school superintendent, TwinWest Chamber, Discover SLP, STEP, SLP Friends of the Arts, SLP
Board or Commission members, etc.
June 5, 2021 is reserved for in-person council interviews of finalists. These will take place at the
Westwood Hills Nature Center at an open public meeting.
Page 3 Special study session meeting of May 17, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: City manager recruitment discussion
Timeline
•May 17 Special study session - Council to review top candidates as recommended by
consultant and narrow to semi-finalists or finalists.
•May 24 Special study session– Semi-finalist virtual interviews, if needed.
•June 4 (Friday) – All day panel interviews for finalists with directors, key staff and/or
community partners; may include city tour or other events as needed.
•June 5 (Saturday) – Panel interviews for finalists with council (open meeting); will include
discussion time.
•June 7 Special study session (if needed) – Council to discuss interviews and make decision
on top candidate. Consultant/HR/city attorney will work with selected candidate on
contract details.
•June 21 – Council to approve contract with new city manager.
Next steps: Consultants and staff will use council feedback to finalize the next steps of the
process.