HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021/06/14 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - City Council - Study SessionAGENDA
JUNE 14, 2021
The St. Louis Park City Council is meeting in person in accordance with the most recent COVID-
19 guidelines. Members of the public may attend the June 14, 2021, meeting in person at St.
Louis Park City Hall, 5005 Minnetonka Blvd. The meeting may also be viewed live via webstream
at bit.ly/watchslpcouncil and on local cable (Comcast SD channel 17/HD channel 859). Visit
bit.ly/slpccagendas to view the agenda and reports.
6:30 p.m. - council chambers
STUDY SESSION and JOINT MEETING w/ COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY ADVISORY COMMISSION
Discussion items
1. 6:30 p.m. Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part
2 and workplan review
2. 7:30 p.m. Police Advisory Commission (PAC) 2021 workplan review
3. 8:00 p.m. 2020 general fund balance/other funding options
4. 9:00 p.m. Future study session agenda planning and prioritization
9:05 p.m. Communications/updates (verbal)
9:10 p.m. Adjourn
Written reports
5. Housing Authority (HA) 2021 workplan review
6. Update on Sherman Associates’ proposed Beltline Boulevard Station Redevelopment
7. Application for Tax Increment Financing Assistance – Beltline Station
8. Food Access and Insecurity Study update
9. Amendments to chapter 6 and chapter 8 of the city code
The agenda is posted on Fridays on the official city bulletin board in the lobby of city hall and on the text display
on civic TV cable channel 17. The agenda and full packet are available by noon on Friday on the city’s website.
If you need special accommodations or have questions about the meeting, please call 952-924-2525.
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: June 14, 2021
Discussion item: 1
Executive summary
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan
review
Recommended action: The commission will present its progress on smart cities goals. No
council action required.
Policy consideration: Does the progress made by the commission on smart cities meet the
expectations of city council set at the March 8, 2021, study session? Do the work plan updates
meet expectations of the city council?
Summary: The community technology advisory commission (CTAC) continues its work on smart
cities projects that align with the city council’s strategic priorities, following affirmation by
council in March that the commission was on the right track with its project use cases. Smart
city projects arte focused on finding and delivering improved quality of life for all residents and
creating a more efficient, responsive, and sustainable city.
Financial or budget considerations: None identified at this time.
Strategic priority consideration:
Current areas of focus for proposed smart cities initiatives align most closely with the following
council strategic priorities:
• Providing a broad range of housing and neighborhood-oriented development
• Being a leader in racial equity and inclusion in order to create a more just and inclusive
community for all
• Creating opportunities to build social capital through community engagement
Supporting documents:
• Discussion
• Presentation
• CTAC workplan
• March 8, 2021, study session report
• March 8, 2021, study session minutes
• January 25, 2021, study session report
Prepared by: Jacque Smith, communications and marketing manager
Reviewed by: Clint Pires, chief information officer
Michele Schnitker, housing supervisor/deputy community development director
Emily Ziring, sustainability manager
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1) Page 2
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review
Discussion
Background: In 2020, the community technology advisory commission began exploring how the
concept and practice of smart cities might be applied in St. Louis Park in the areas of connected
community, environment and geographic information system (GIS)-enabled applications.
Committees focusing on each theme began identifying potential use cases that could be applied
at the city.
After meeting with city council March 8, 2021, to receive feedback on the direction of its
proposed smart cities use cases, the commission continued its smart cities work. The
commission will present its progress in each area. In addition, the first phase of a housing
dashboard will be demonstrated by city GIS staff. This dashboard was created through a
collaboration of city GIS and housing staff, with feedback provided by the community
technology advisory commission GIS-enabled applications committee.
Present considerations: Does the progress shown by the commission meet council expectations
set at the March 8 study session presentation by CTAC?
Next steps: If the council continues to be supportive of the CTAC direction, the commission will
continue to work on smart cities projects. This will include refining any relevant timeline and
budget considerations and considering opportunities for community feedback on any proposed
public-facing initiatives.
CTAC Presentation To SLP
City Council
June 14, 2021
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 3
Agenda
•Overall CTAC Report
•Environment Report
•Connected Community Report
•GIS Committee Report
•Q&A
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 4
CTAC Status
•Incremental progress in all committees
•Some changes in emphasis
•Advancement in dashboard
•Discontinuance in one project
•Addition of emphasis on assisting city in
obtaining broadband infrastructure funding,
e.g., FCC Rural Digital Opportunity Fund
•Other multi-committee project management
or work with the city that does not fit specific
committee charters
•Meetings with Lumen, AT&T, others to follow
In response to the lack of adequate broadband in parts of the
state, especially rural areas, legislators agreed to spend $70
million on a state grant program that aims to build high-speed
internet infrastructure across Minnesota.
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 5
Other Sites of Interest For Learnings
Angie Dickison,
executive director of
the state’s Office of
Broadband
Development, which
administers grants with
the money
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 6
Quite a bit of useful
information can be obtained
from these sites
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 7
Social Vulnerability Index and St. Louis Park
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 8
GIS Community
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 9
GIS Committee: Public Dashboards for City Council
Strategic Goals
Actions in Progress
•Identifying indicators that can be
used to track progress toward
intended outcomes
•Implementation of housing
affordability dashboard
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 10
Housing Dashboards
Initial prototype focused on surfacing informative data about housing, particularly housing affordability.
Why housing for initial efforts? Because housing combines…
Public Interest
Existing Data Efforts Local Policy
“A stable, safe home is essential for people to work productively, stay healthy, and for children to learn.
Quality homes must be within reach for all people if our region is going to grow and thrive.Our zip codes
should not determine our success in life.” -Metropolitan Council
Need
Local Policy Impact
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 11
Technical Achievements and Next Steps
Initial Dashboard Design
•Mobile Friendly and Accessible
•Focused on outcome: creation of a greater
number of affordable units
•Interactive analysis on multiple points
•Makes data available to other departments
and public for further study and reuse
•Can be automatically updated by staff using
cloud interface to provide real-time data
Next Steps
•Expand housing dashboards around
additional outcome focuses: desire to
keep each tightly aligned and
focused.
•Begin working on dashboards for
other goals, in order to create
cohesive dashboard hub
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 12
DEMO
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 13
Connected Community
Committee
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 14
Status & Next Steps
•Availability and affordability of services
•Stakeholder Analysis & Contact List
•Strategy for Focusing Efforts –Feedback from you
•Three Step Approach
1.Awareness
2.Service
3.Infrastructure
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 15
Awareness
•Research all relevant, existing programs
•Gather enrollment and contact information
•Make available for SLP citizens
•Determine maintenance cycle
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 16
Service
•Enable a service function to assist citizen enrollment
•Empower volunteers and non-profits to fulfill support role
•Determine oversight and governance
•Measure citizen satisfaction and success
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 17
Infrastructure
•Determine what is missing today
•Research technology options for identified gaps
•Engage with partners, based on needs, potential RFP development
•Work with SLP city teams to deploy any new infrastructure
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 18
Environment Committee
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 19
Environment Committee
•Discontinuance of
pedestrian/bicycle project as
current city project more than
adequate
•Progress in plug load analytics
•Visit To ElectReon in Israel
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 20
ElectReon Visit
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 21
ElectReon Visit
•It works!
•Pictures (real city bus) and video
from test site near Tel Aviv
University
•Generation 2 almost released
•Tests in Tel Aviv, Italy, Germany,
Sweden, and soon a partnership
with University of Utah
•Notable: takes an overnight to
equip 1km road, weather resistant
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 22
Plug Loads
•Analysis done for an entire house, every
socket, every device plugged in
•Currently using power meter that displays
real-time usage
•Difficult to get accurate readings and
record
•Recently purchased an entire whole house
system which will track and record usage
over time
•Will also monitor hardwired devices
such as furnace, motion lights, etc.
•Monitor main power and 16 branch
circuits as panel hard to work with
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 23
Devices Measured
Device Location Standby Mode Notes
12v Milwaukee Battery Charger Garage 0.5
18v Milwaukee Battery Charger Garage 0.5
5v Milwaukee Battery Charger Garage 0.5
Apple TV Bsmt 1
Broadband Modem Bsmt 6
Chromecast Bsmt 2
Clock 2F 0.5
Clock Bsmt 6
Clock (BR)1F 2
Clock (LR)1F 0.5
CO Detector 1F 0.5
CO Detector 2F 0.5
CO Detector Bsmt 1
CO, Natural
Gas
CPAP 1F 0.5
Dishwasher 1F 0.5
Dryer Bsmt 0.5
Furnace Bsmt Hardwired
Garage Door Opener Garage
Grill 1F 0.5
Masterforce Battery Charger Garage 0.5
Device Location Standby Mode Notes
Microwave 1F
Monitor K-1 2F 0.5
Monitor K-2 2F 0.5
Monitor R-1 Bsmt 7
Monitor R-2 Bsmt 8
Motion Light (Back)1F Hardwired
Motion Light (Front)1F Hardwired
Network Switch Bsmt 7
PC Dock 1F 1
PC Dock 2F 1
PC Dock Bsmt 1
Phone Charger (K)1F 0.5
Phone Charger (R)1F 0.5
Printer Bsmt 0.5
Range 1F 1
Refrigerator 1F
Smoke Detector 1F 0.5 Old Unit 3w
Smoke Detector 2F 0.5
Smoke Detector Bsmt 0.5
Toothbrush 1F 1
Treadmill Bsmt 1
TV 1F 1
TV Bsmt 8
Washing Machine Bsmt 0.5
Water Heater Bsmt Hardwired
Wifi/Router 1F 9
Typical total standby usage 74.5
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 24
Learnings and Plans
Cost/Savings
Use power strip to turn of multiple devices when not in use
Unplug devices when not in use
Use Energy Star devices
Learnings
Next Quarter:
Install whole house monitoring system in my home for both
system & plug load evaluation and to fine tune mitigation
techniques.
Future work:
Install system in second home for plug load evaluation and
mitigation.
1 kWh Electricity $0.118
Fees & Taxes $0.037
Actual Cost kWh $0.155
Yearly cost 1
kWh $1.360
Typical Yearly Costs
Internet 22w $29.92
Clock 6w $8.16
Old TV (2000)
8w $10.88
Annual Est Cost $100.64
(74.5w)
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 25
Board and Commission
Annual Workplan
Presented: June 14, 2021
1
Work Plan Template│ community technology advisory commission
Time
Frame
Initiative Strategic
Priorities
Purpose
(see page 2 for definitions)
Outcome (fill in after completed)
4Q 2019 Establish committees to
research technologies,
providers, implementation
issues and risks.
☐New Initiative
☒Continued
Initiative☐Ongoing
Responsibility
☐1 ☐ 2 ☐ 3
☐4 ☐ 5 ☒
N/A
☒Commission Initiated Project
☐Council Initiated Project
☐Report Findings
(council requested)☐Formal Recommendation
(council requested)
•Community engagement committee
established and meeting regularly
•Technical committee to be established at
Oct. 30, 2019, meeting to address a
specific initiative
•Three committees established in late 2020
for three smart city areas: GIS,
environment and connected communities.
3Q-4Q
2019
Attend meetings of other
city boards and commissions
to learn how technology
might help their activities
and related city services
☒New Initiative
☐Continued
Initiative☐Ongoing
Responsibility
☐1 ☐ 2 ☐ 3☐4 ☐ 5 ☒
N/A
☒Commission Initiated Project
☐Council Initiated Project
☐Report Findings
(council requested)☐Formal Recommendation
(council requested)
•Did not happen due to the pandemic and
change in commission direction to focus
on smart cities.
•Collaborated with city staff on smart cities
workshop in October 2020; continued to
work collaboratively with city staff as
appropriate to develop smart city projects.
3Q-4Q
2019
Connect with similar
commissions from other
agencies
☒New Initiative
☐Continued
Initiative☐Ongoing
Responsibility
☐1 ☐ 2 ☐ 3☐4 ☐ 5 ☒
N/A
☒Commission Initiated Project
☐Council Initiated Project
☐Report Findings
(council requested)☐Formal Recommendation
(council requested)
•Commission has been provided with
League of Minnesota Cities contacts to
research activities of other Minnesota
cities.
•Commission has modeled some activities
on similar commissions in Tacoma and
Seattle, Wash.
•Commission has met with school district
to understand technology access needs.
•City staff and commission members have
contacted broadband providers to
understand their plans around access and
equity in technology.
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 26
Board and Commission
Annual Workplan
2
City of St. Louis Park Strategic Priorities
1.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.
2.St. Louis Park is committed to continue to lead in environmental stewardship.
3.St. Louis Park is committed to providing a broad range of housing and neighborhood-oriented development.
4.St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options for people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably.
5.St. Louis Park is committed to creating opportunities to build social capital through community engagement
OR Other
3Q 2019 Develop a plan for
community engagement.
Determine methods for
informed public input on
activities and priorities.
☒New Initiative
☐Continued
Initiative☐Ongoing
Responsibility
☐1 ☐ 2 ☐ 3☐4 ☒ 5☐N/A
☒Commission Initiated Project
☐Council Initiated Project
☐Report Findings
(council requested)☐Formal Recommendation
(council requested)
•Community engagement committee has
contacted local private school Benilde-St.
Margaret, resulting in recruitment of a
youth member for the commission (Theo
Pohlen)
•Committee developed an online survey for
residents to help the commission
understand what the needs/wants are of
the community. Survey was not deployed
due to concerns that it was equipment
focused rather than access focused; and
limitations of what the commission can
solve.
•Commission researched possible venues
for in-person focus groups in early 2020.
•Work continues in 2021 as part of
committee work for smart cities.
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 27
Board and Commission
Annual Workplan
3
Purpose: definitions
Modifications:
Work plans may be modified, to add or delete items, in one of three ways:
•Work plans can be modified by mutual agreement during a joint work session.
•If immediate approval is important, the board or commission can work with their staff liaison to present a modified work plan for city
council approval at a council meeting.
•The city council can direct a change to the work plan at their discretion.
•Project initiated by the board or commission
Commission Initiated Project
•Project tasked to a board or commission by the city council
Council Initiated Project
•Initiated by the city council
•Board and commission will study a specific issue or topic and report its findings or comments to the city council in
writing
•No direct action is taken by the board/commission
Report Findings
•Initiated by the city council
•Board and commission will study a specific issue or topic and makes a formal recommendation to the city council on
what action to take
•A recommendation requires a majoirty of the commissioners' support
Formal Recommendation
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 28
Board and Commission
Annual Workplan
4
Parking Lot
Items that are being considered by the board/commission but not proposed in the annual work plan. Council approval is needed if the
board/commission decides they would like to move forward with an initiative.
Initiative Comments:
Produce a quarterly report for the
city council of relevant technology
activities and advances.
Commission has provided a report and/or met with city council in January, March and June 2021.
Produce final reports on completed
commission activities, with
recommendations for
consideration by other
commissions or by the city council.
June 14, 2021, study session report
March 8, 2021, study session report
March 8, 2021, study session minutes
January 25, 2021, study session report
Enhance the commission’s
presence on the city website.
Commission website continues to be kept up to date with member information, agendas and minutes.
Provide analysis of proposed or
considered technology for the
community and city operations and
provide recommendations and
feedback to staff, the city council
and other commissions.
In 2020, the community technology advisory commission began exploring how the concept and practice
of smart cities might be applied in St. Louis Park. Following a delay due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the
project kicked off with an October workshop for commission members and city staff.
At the workshop, Insight staff helped participants understand the concept and practice of smart cities,
defined in this case as application of technology to improve quality of life. Potential use cases
(applications) as defined by pre-workshop survey results were prioritized against both measurable
benefits and the council’s strategic priorities. Three main themes emerged: connected community,
environment and geographic information system (GIS)-enabled applications.
Committees that included commission members, city staff, the city’s GIS account manager and Insight
staff were established for each theme. The committees developed charters outlining goals, methods,
initial tasks and opportunities for investigation, included in the Jan. 25, 2021, report to the city council.
Since then, the committees have worked with Insight facilitators and city staff to create use case
definitions. These definitions outline project goals, potential benefits and limitations, scope and impact
for the prospective initiatives. The committee chairs presented highlights of the use cases at the March
8, 2021 city council study session and will follow up at the June 14, 2021 city council study session.
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Community technology advisory commission smart cities initiative – part 2 and workplan review Page 29
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: June 14, 2021
Discussion item: 2
Executive summary
Title: Police Advisory Commission (PAC) 2021 workplan review
Recommended action: Council to review the workplan and provide comments to PAC
commissioners.
Policy consideration: Does the PAC’s workplan, plan to provide community de-escalation
training in the fall, and interest in assisting the City Council on learning about race data related
to police interactions align with Council goals and priorities? How can the PAC best support and
advise the City Council?
Summary: The Police Advisory Commission respectfully submits its annual report and 2021
workplan to the City Council for review and discussion. The Chairperson will provide a brief
presentation of the workplan and planned initiatives for 2021.
Financial or budget considerations: There will be some cost to provide trainers for community
de-escalation training. This is budgeted for and will be covered in the Police Department
budget.
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. St. Louis Park is
committed to creating opportunities to build social capital through community engagement.
Supporting documents: Discussion
PAC 2020 annual report
PAC 2021 workplan
Prepared by: Mikael Garland, police lieutenant
Reviewed by: Mike Harcey, police chief
Maria Solano, interim administrative services officer
Approved by: Cindy Walsh, interim deputy city manager/operations and recreation director
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 2) Page 2
Title: Police Advisory Commission (PAC) 2021 workplan review
Discussion
Background: The St. Louis Park Police Advisory Commission was formed to increase awareness
of police department capabilities and services, provide an opportunity for citizen involvement
and input in police services, and encourage positive interactions between the police
department and the community. The work of the commission changes as the needs of the
community change. Commissioners design and create their own initiatives each year. There are
11 Commissioners and two youth members and the Commission’s elected leadership consists
of Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary. A listing of Commissioners’ names and term expirations can
be found at this link.
The PAC continued regular meetings throughout 2020 with its meetings shifting to a virtual
setting and initiatives changing because of the global pandemic and the effects on our
community cause by the murder of George Floyd by a former Minneapolis Police Officer in May.
PAC members were directly involved in the St. Louis Park Police Department’s reimagining of its
Use of Force Policy to align with the Police Accountability Act of 2020. The Commission is
interested in working with neighborhood liaisons and hosting community conversations in
2021, along with offering free de-escalation trainings for interested community members to
enhance their communication with one another.
Goals and key initiatives put on hold in 2020 included the planned 3rd Annual SLP Trail 5K
Run/Walk, but considerable time was spent in meetings on productive and enlightening
discussions surrounding challenges involving community policing during a global pandemic
emergency. In addition to work planned in 2020 around reviewing the Police Department’s
bodycam policy, the PAC’s meetings included regular review of police statistics on calls, stops,
arrests, and major case summaries. The PAC also maintains its interest in assisting and serving
as a resource to the City Council on planning to collect race data on police-citizen contacts.
2021 Goals:
•The Commission has goals in the coming year focusing on community outreach, in the
form of providing de-escalation training to community members in a safe, virtual
environment.
•The Commission will continue review of Police Department statistics and information at
every meeting, along with crime trends and crime prevention strategies.
•The Commission regularly receives requests for communication from other cities’ PACs
or similar groups and wants to grow and develop these external relationships to learn
and improve its work in our community.
•The Commission wants to partner with and advise the City Council in its work on
collecting race data related to police interactions, reviewing methods for collecting race
data, and providing recommendations to the Council.
The Commission’s 2021 goals will guide its ongoing work throughout 2021 and lead to
additional beneficial work on behalf of the Council and our community in coming years.
2020 Annual Report
Police Advisory Commission
I.2020 Goals and Key Initiatives: Provide a progress report on your 2020 goals and
list the most significant activities undertaken in 2020.
The PAC had a very productive year, although our goals and key initiatives changed
significantly due to the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis and COVID-19.
Notably, following George Floyd’s murder, Governor Walz signed the Minnesota
Police Accountability Act of 2020 into law. The Act, in part, requires police
departments to update their Use of Force policies, and the PAC was directly involved
in reviewing and providing recommendations for the SLP PD’s Use of Force policy. In
addition, the PAC has focused on how George Floyd’s murder has impacted our
community, the SLP PD, and the relationship between the two. The PAC hopes to
work with neighborhood liaisons and host community conversations, and is actively
preparing a plan for offering de-escalation trainings for interested community
members to enhance their communication with one another.
Goals and key initiatives involving in-person events were put on hold due to COVID-
19. For example, the 3rd Annual SLP Trail 5K Run/Walk scheduled for April 26, 2020
was cancelled. The pandemic also resulted in several PAC discussions surrounding
“community-policing in the midst of COVID-19.”
Additional updates on 2020 goals and key initiatives are as follows:
a.Review Police department Body Worn Camera Policy and initial report
b.The PAC reviewed department statistics about calls, stops and arrests at every
PAC meeting.
c.Partner with City Council on collecting race data on police/citizen contacts.
i.Presented to the Council on methods for collecting race data, studies on
traffic stop data and traffic surveys to ascertain racial makeup of driving
population. We also evaluated a collaborative process for studying race
data collection with the Edina PD.
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 2)
Title: Police Advisory Commission (PAC) 2021 workplan review Page 3
2020 Annual Report
Police Advisory Commission
II.2021 Goals: List your board/commission’s most important goals (up to 3) for 2021.
These goals should be statements that reflect the board/commission’s highest
priorities, which may or may not change from year-to-year. For each goal, list 1-2
key initiatives or activities that the Board/Commission will be working on in 2020
that will help make progress toward that particular goal.
a.Community Outreach
i.De-Escalation Training(s)
ii.TBD
b.Review department statistics at each PAC meeting
i.Number and classification of calls
ii.Number of reports filed
iii.Crime trends
c.Partner with City Council on collecting race data related to police interactions
i.Continue to review methods for collecting race data and provide
recommendations to City Council
d.Partner with neighboring cities and their police advisory commissions
i.Share ideas and best practices
III.Race Equity and Inclusion: How may you continue to incorporate or promote race
equity and inclusion in the key initiatives/activities identified in above?
Our aim is to engage all members of the St. Louis Park community, specifically those
who may not be personally represented on the Commission, by hosting public forums
and other community events related to policing topics. We also aim to continue
partnering with the Human Rights Commission and Multicultural Advisory Committee
for ideas and direction on continued outreach in the advancement of racial equity.
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 2)
Title: Police Advisory Commission (PAC) 2021 workplan review Page 4
2020 Annual Report
Police Advisory Commission
IV.Strategic Priorities: How is the commission’s work supporting the strategic
priorities?
The Police Advisory Commission is committed to being a leader in racial equity and
inclusion by hosting public forums and participating in community events. By doing
so, we are encouraging all community members to share their questions, comments
and concerns on policing matters. In addition, through reviewing crime statistics, we
hope to find opportunities for improvement to make the city a safer, more
comfortable and reliable area.
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 2)
Title: Police Advisory Commission (PAC) 2021 workplan review Page 5
Board and Commission
Annual Workplan
Presented to council: June 14, 2021
1
Work Plan Template│ Police Advisory Commission
Time
Frame
Initiative Strategic
Priorities
Purpose
(see page 2 for definitions)
Outcome (fill in after
completed)
2021 Community Outreach
-De-escalation trainings
- TBD
☐New Initiative
X Continued
Initiative☐Ongoing
Responsibility
X 1 ☐ 2 ☐ 3
X 4 X 5 ☐N/A
X Commission Initiated Project
☐Council Initiated Project
☐Report Findings (council requested)☐Formal Recommendation (council requested)
2021 Review Department Statics
-Number and
classification of calls
-Number of Reports filed
-Crime trends
☐New Initiative
X Continued
Initiative☐Ongoing
Responsibility
☐1 ☐ 2 ☐ 3
X 4 X 5 ☐N/A
X Commission Initiated Project
☐Council Initiated Project
☐Report Findings (council requested)☐Formal Recommendation (council requested)
2021 Partner with City Council on
collecting race data related to
police interactions
☐New Initiative
X Continued
Initiative☐Ongoing
Responsibility
X 1 ☐ 2 ☐ 3
X 4 ☐ 5 ☐N/A
X Commission Initiated Project
X Council Initiated Project
☐Report Findings (council requested)☐Formal Recommendation (council requested)
2021 Partnering with neighboring
cities and their police advisory
commissions
X New Initiative
☐Continued
Initiative☐Ongoing
Responsibility
X 1 ☐ 2 ☐ 3☐4 X 5 ☐N/A
X Commission Initiated Project
☐Council Initiated Project
☐Report Findings (council requested)☐Formal Recommendation (council requested)
City of St. Louis Park Strategic Priorities
1.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.
2.St. Louis Park is committed to continue to lead in environmental stewardship.
3.St. Louis Park is committed to providing a broad range of housing and neighborhood-oriented development.
4.St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options for people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably.
5.St. Louis Park is committed to creating opportunities to build social capital through community engagement
OR Other
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 2)
Title: Police Advisory Commission (PAC) 2021 workplan review Page 6
Board and Commission
Annual Workplan
Presented to council: June 14, 2021
2
Purpose: definitions
Modifications:
Work plans may be modified, to add or delete items, in one of three ways:
●Work plans can be modified by mutual agreement during a joint work session.
●If immediate approval is important, the board or commission can work with their staff liaison to present a modified work plan for City
Council approval at a council meeting.
●The City Council can direct a change to the work plan at their discretion.
Project initiated by the board or commission
Commission Initiated Project
Project tasked to a board or commission by the City Council
Council Initiated Project
Initiated by the City Council
Board and commission will study a specific issue or topic and report its findings or comments to the City Council in
writing
No direct action is taken by the board/commission
Report Findings
Initiated by the City Council
Board and commission will study a specific issue or topic and makes a formal recommendation to the City Council on
what action to take
A recommendation requires a majority of the commissioners' support
Formal Recommendation
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 2)
Title: Police Advisory Commission (PAC) 2021 workplan review Page 7
Board and Commission
Annual Workplan
Presented to council: June 14, 2021
3
Parking Lot
Items that are being considered by the board/commission but not proposed in the annual work plan. Council approval is needed if the
board/commission decides they would like to move forward with an initiative.
Initiative Comments:
Explore opportunities to help police department
with officer recruitment and retention
Take part in police officer interview/selection
Review Police Department Strategic 3-year Plan Possible priority for 2022 or 2023
Continue to participate in community events PAC members continue to participate in community events: Children’s First Ice-cream
social, National Night Out, Parktacular.
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 2)
Title: Police Advisory Commission (PAC) 2021 workplan review Page 8
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: June 14, 2021
Discussion item: 3
Executive summary
Title: 2020 general fund balance/other funding options
Recommended action: No formal action required. This is a policy level discussion to begin
conversation on the allocation of available 2020 fund balance in the General Fund. In addition,
information is provided as a follow-up to the budget discussion held in May regarding other
funding sources/options.
Policy consideration: What are the primary council goals relating to allocating available 2020
fund balance? Does council wish staff to pursue additional funding options for future
projects/initiatives?
Summary: Each year the council reviews the general fund balance and assigns any available
fund balance to specific areas of the general fund or other funds. The city ended 2020 with a
very healthy balance in the General Fund. This report discusses some high-level ideas on how to
allocate that balance.
At the May 10 study session discussion on the 2022 budget Council asked for more information
on the implementation of an EDA levy and a local options sales tax. That information is
provided in this report. Additional requests were made for the allocation of COVID relief
money, tax increment finance information, and current debt schedules. This information will be
coming under separate cover to the council.
Lastly, the regulations for the American Recovery program are also out and we will briefly
discuss those monies and thoughts for their future use.
Financial or budget considerations: Details regarding budget and levy will be discussed at the
work session.
Strategic priority consideration: All areas of the adopted strategic priorities are impacted by
the city’s budget and financial health.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Prepared by: Melanie Schmitt, chief financial officer
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 3) Page 2
Title: 2020 general fund balance/other funding options
Discussion
Background: On May 10, 2021 staff presented a high-level overview of 2022 budget scenarios.
Council directed staff to return with information on alternate funding sources (EDA Levy and
local option sales tax). Those options and the pathway to them are included in this report.
At the June 14, 2021 study session staff would like to discuss with the council the balance in the
general fund at year end 2020. The city’s policy has been to keep 45% of the subsequent years
general fund budget as a general fund balance for cash flow and other purposes. Keeping in line
with that policy, there is approximately $6 million available to allocate for other purposes. Note
that these available dollars should be considered as a onetime non-recurring resource and in
general should only be used for onetime costs vs funding ongoing operations.
What follows are various recommendations, ideas, and suggestions for allocating these dollars.
Baseline fund balance allocation assumptions: As a standard practice to address potential
economic volatility, for a number of years the city has reserved $500,000 in the General Fund to
serve as a backstop if projected permit revenues do not meet the expected target for the
coming year. Staff recommends doing the same in 2021/22. Two other items we recommend
carrying over is an allocation for the police departments’ work on developing a traffic stop race
data collection process and for undertaking a community satisfaction survey, both of which
combined total $75,000.
As discussed earlier this year, based on council direction staff also proposes allocating $500,000
in available fund balance and placed in the Climate Investment Fund which will be created later
this year.
After making the above allocations about $5 million is still available for reassignment.
Recommendations for available fund balance: Staff has several recommendations for the
remaining dollars. We can do all, some, or none of the following. The goals of council will help
staff make final recommendations.
•Insurance Fund
We could assign a portion of the available dollars to the Insurance Fund. This would create a
resource that could be used if the City is ever facing insurance claims above what our
deductible would cover. Current limits on the city’s policy are $2,000,000 per occurrence
and $3,000,000 aggregate. Similar to other cities, we currently do not waive the statutory
municipal tort liability. The statutory tort liability is limited to a maximum of $500,000 per
claimant and $1.5 million per occurrence. Our coverage limit is higher because there are
some types of liability claims that aren’t subject to the statutory tort caps (e.g. claims made
in federal court). The city would be responsible for anything above our coverage. Currently
the cost to purchase excess liability coverage is $69,457 for $1 million of excess coverage
each year. $2 million of excess liability coverage is $104,186 per year.
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 3) Page 3
Title: 2020 general fund balance/other funding options
• Employee Development Fund
The employee development fund needs additional monies to cover expense. We currently
levy $150,000 a year to this fund, and it has exceeded that in expense several times over
the last 5 years. This fund pays for employee development such as educational and wellness
incentives. The primary expense however is the flex time payout when an employee leaves
or retires. Several retirements in a single year cause a burden on the fund. The
recommendation would be a small transfer to this fund to ensure it has cash for the
upcoming retirements we are anticipating.
• Pavement Management
Our Pavement Management Fund has a large deficit ($2.6 million) that has added up over a
couple of years. We have budgeted to correct this in 2021 but anticipate not all the
negative cash will be restored even with the budget to fix it. Staff recommends using a
portion of the general fund balance to put the fund in the black. If we chose not to do this,
we will need to trim down some of our pavement projects for 2022 to address the deficit.
• Sidewalks and Trails
The 2022 pavement management project (West Fern Hill) was presented to council in
January of 2021. Previously removed Connect the Park segments were added back into the
scope. This will create the need to take on additional debt. We could allocate a portion of
the available general fund balance to pay for the Connect the Park segments and eliminate
the need for bonding.
• Reschedule other Connect the Park Projects
During the 2021 budget cycle we modified the schedule to extend the amount of time it will
take to implement the plan. This was due to future levy increases Connect the Park was
requiring. We could use some of our general fund balance to try and work CTP projects back
in without increasing the current future levy projections. A more sustainable option would
be to look at an additional funding source. A dedicated funding source other than a debt
levy would allow us to resume the Connect the Park schedule to complete it sooner. A new
funding source could also be used for the future maintenance costs on the new
infrastructure. Outlined later in this report is information on a couple of other funding
options.
• Flattening the Levy Curve
Our current long-range financial plan shows some upcoming challenges with high debt
levies due to MSA road projects. We could use the available general fund balance to smooth
out the levy in 2024 and 2025. This would result in a lower debt service need for a few
years. Debt will naturally fall off starting in 2026 bringing the debt levy down or remaining
steady depending on if we continue to add debt.
• Other Possibilities?
When looking at the council’s strategic priorities an allocation could be made to the
Affordable Housing Trust Fund. However, given the trust fund already has a specific funding
source (HRA levy) and that legislative approval is expected to be given to allow pooled TIF
dollars to be placed in the trust fund, it may be more prudent to allocate the dollars
elsewhere.
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 3) Page 4
Title: 2020 general fund balance/other funding options
EDA Levy: We currently have an HRA levy to support our housing and redevelopment activities.
We can also levy for Economic Development at the request of the EDA. An EDA levy would be
limited to .01813 percent of taxable market value in the City. (Comparatively, the HRA levy is
limited to .0185 percent of taxable market value) The city can have both an EDA and HRA levy.
If the EDA choses to institute an EDA levy, it must prepare a request for the levy and present it
to the City Council. The City Council must review the request and approve the EDA levy by
resolution. There is no public hearing required. Once adopted, the EDA levy is included in the
City’s preliminary and final levy certification processes and collected by the County as general
City taxes. The EDA levy is remitted separately from the general levy directly to the EDA. For
2021, a maximum EDA levy would amount to approximately $1,408,440. Comparatively, our
2021 HRA levy is $1,437,183.
Local Option Sales Tax: In 2019, the city council discussed a local option sales tax to help pay
for regionally significant infrastructure projects. Local governments, except for counties, are
generally prohibited by statute from imposing sales taxes. Counties are allowed by statute to
impose general sales taxes to fund transportation and transit. A local options sales tax for cities
is an option that is available through special legislation. The law was modified significantly in
2019 to emphasize projects of regional significance. State statute, Minnesota Statute (M.S.)
297A.99 and M.S. 477A.016 , have very specific requirements and limitations for using a local
option sales tax. In order to implement a local options sales tax a city must:
• determine up to five capital projects of regional significance;
• describe benefits to non-residents and businesses;
• propose a sales tax rate;
• determine the amount of revenue needed; and
• provide the anticipated date of when the sales tax will expire.
The selected projects must be of regional significance and result in benefits to both St. Louis
Park residents and businesses and to non-resident visitors and businesses. Examples of projects
the council considered in 2019 include Cedar Lake Road (TH 169 to Kentucky Avenue), Louisiana
Avenue (I394 to Walker Street), Shelard Parkway area roadways, Louisiana LRT station area
roadways and Texas Avenue/ Minnetonka Boulevard intersection.
According to the local option sales tax analysis conducted by University of Minnesota,
Extension, of the $1.09 billion total taxable sales in St. Louis Park in 2017, approximately $1
billion would be subject to a local option sales tax. Of the $1 billion of taxable sales,
approximately 54.8% of sales would come from non-residents and 45.2% would come from St.
Louis Park Residents. The assumed sales tax at that time of 0.5% (one half of one percent)
would generate $5 million dollars a year. As an example, a $10 purchase is estimated to
generate five cents.
If the city council is interested in moving forward with local option sales tax during the
upcoming year, the council must submit a resolution to the Senate and House Tax Committees
by January 31, 2022 if it wants legislation introduced indicating its desire to impose the tax.
During the legislative session, the city would work with legislators to pass special legislation
authorizing the imposition of the tax. If approved, a voter-approved referendum at a general
election would be required before the implementation of the tax. This vote would need to take
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 3) Page 5
Title: 2020 general fund balance/other funding options
place within two years of passing of special legislation. A separate vote on the ballot is required
for each project (up to five projects with a vote for each) that was granted legislative approval.
If approved, the sales tax would be administered by the Minnesota Department of Revenue.
Update on American Recovery Act Funds: We have finally received information on our
allocation from the American Recovery Act. St. Louis park is eligible for up to $5,109,510.00.
Some broad use categories for this money are listed below.
• Responding to the public health emergency
o COVID-19 mitigation
o Behavioral health care
o Public health resources
• Addressing negative economic impacts
o Workers and families
o Small business
o Impacted industries
o Public sector
• Serving the hardest hit
o Health disparities
o Housing and Neighborhoods
o Educational disparities
o Healthy environments
• Improving access to infrastructure
o Water and Sanitary Sewer
o Broadband
Some of the above were eligible CARES act expenditures, but some of them are new. The
American Recovery Act monies have broader uses. We are also able to spend the money
through December 31, 2024. This gives us a lot of time to strategically spend the money where
it is needed over the next several years. Keep in mind that in addition to the money we are
receiving in St. Louis Park, all kinds of new federal programs have or will be created around
housing, small business assistance, and capital projects. We want to be strategic and not double
up if there is an existing program available.
Initial thoughts from staff for the American Recovery Funds include:
• Set aside for tax court petitions (a looming and very real issue given the pandemic)
• Set aside for potential COVID implications (revenue loss, another shutdown, etc.)
• Community mental health initiatives (including PD)
• Utility infrastructure (mitigate rate increases or accelerate watermain replacement
schedule?)
• Broadband (expedite fiber to the premises initiative in traditionally underserved areas?)
It’s important to remember that with this new money we don’t have to make decisions on
spending it quickly. For the CARE’s dollars that was not the case.
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: June 14, 2021
Discussion item: 4
Executive summary
Title: Future study session agenda planning and prioritization
Recommended action: The city council and city manager to set the agenda for the special study
sessions scheduled for June 15, 17 and 21, 2021 and the regularly scheduled study session on
June 28, 2021.
Policy consideration: Not applicable.
Summary: This report summarizes the proposed agenda for the special study sessions scheduled
for June 15, 17 and 21, 2021 and the regularly scheduled study session on June 28, 2021.
Also attached to this report is:
- Study session discussion topics and timeline
- Proposed topics for future study session discussion
Topic Proposed by Councilmember
Establishing a food security task force Tim Brausen and Margaret Rog
Financial or budget considerations: Not applicable.
Strategic priority consideration: Not applicable.
Supporting documents: Tentative agenda – June 15, 17, 21 and 28, 2021
Study session discussion topics and timeline
Proposed topics for future study session discussion
Prepared by: Debbie Fischer, administrative services office assistant
Reviewed by: Maria Solano, interim administrative services officer
Approved by: Cindy Walsh, interim deputy city manager/operations and recreation director
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 4) Page 2
Title: Future study session agenda planning and prioritization
June 15 and 17, 2021.
3 p.m. Special study session – community room
City council will be conducting a second round of interviews with finalists for the city
manager position.
June 21, 2021.
5 p.m. Special study session – community room
1.City manager recruitment
This meeting will provide time for council to review the additional data gathered at the
June 15 and 17, 2021 second round interviews and determine their top candidate for the
city manager position.
June 28, 2021.
6:30 p.m. Study Session – council chambers
Tentative discussion items
1.Annual financial report for year ended Dec. 31, 2020 – auditors discussion and review –
administrative services (30 minutes)
The city auditor (Redpath and Company) will present the annual audit results and opinion
issued on the 2020 comprehensive Annual Financial Report.
2.Environment & sustainability commission workplan review – building & energy (60 minutes)
Annual workplan update from the police advisory commission.
3.Elections 2021 – administrative services (60 minutes)
Elections staff will provide an overview of what to expect in the 2021 local election cycle
including a brief review of the ranked-choice system and elections timeline, as well as
updates on preparations for redistricting and voter outreach and education initiatives.
4.Creating pathways to homeownership for BIPOC individuals and families – community
development (30 minutes)
It is recognized that historical and institutional racism has disproportionately created
housing challenges and disparities for BIPOC communities. Over the past 6 months, staff
have been working to create a homeownership program designed to address these historic
injustices and inequities, to facilitate affordable homeownership for low-income, BIPOC and
other underrepresented households.
5.Future study session agenda planning – administrative services (5 minutes)
Communications/meeting check-in – administrative services (5 minutes)
Time for communications between staff and council will be set aside on every study session
agenda for the purposes of information sharing.
Written reports
6.May 2021 monthly financial report
7.Minnetonka Blvd. development update
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 4) Page 3
Title: Future study session agenda planning and prioritization
Study session discussion topics and timeline
Future council items
Priority Discussion topic Comments Timeline for
discussion
1 Council meetings – agenda and video
presentation TBD
3 Public process expectations and
outcomes
Staff is working on the approach for
undertaking this discussion. 8/23/21
5 Community and neighborhood sidewalk
designations
To be combined w/ Connect the Park
discussion. 3rd qtr. 2021
6 Transportation commission 9/27/21
7
Easy access to nature, across city,
starting w/ low-income neighborhoods/
WHNC Access Fund
*On hold pending direction from school
district.*On hold
9 Public forums at council mtgs 9/23/19 SS. Staff is researching options. 3rd qtr. 2021
11 STEP discussion: facilities STEP has entered into purchase
agreement for two adjacent properties. On hold
+ Vehicle idling ESC is reviewing and will provide
recommendation TBD
+ Land acknowledgements TBD
Council items in progress
Priority Discussion topic Comments Next Steps
- Policing discussion Discussed 7/27/20, 9/29/20 & 2/22/21. TBD
4 Creating pathways to home ownership
for BIPOC individuals and families Discussed at 2/8/21 council meeting.
Program being developed.
6/28/21
discussion
10 Boards and commissions general review Discussed 1/25/21. Revisit after the
annual workplan process. 3rd qtr. 2021
+ Semi-trailer truck parking Discussed 5/24/21 Ordinance to be
drafted
- Conversion therapy ban
Report on 2/22/21. Resolution adopted
3/15/21. HRC to review and make
recommendations on ordinance.
TBD
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 4) Page 4
Title: Future study session agenda planning and prioritization
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: June 14, 2021
Written report: 5
Executive summary
Title: Housing Authority (HA) 2021 workplan review
Recommended action: None required. The work plan provides information to the council
related to the HA board’s workplan for 2021.
Policy consideration: Does the workplan and priorities align with city goals and priorities?
Summary: The HA board respectfully submits the 2020 annual report to city council. Included at
the end of the HA board report is the board’s 2021 work plan. The HA’s mission statement is as
follows:
The Housing Authority develops, integrates, and operates housing and housing assistance
policies and programs to ensure the availability of safe, affordable, and desirable housing
options that meet the diverse, lifecycle housing needs of all of the residents of St. Louis Park.
Current HA board members:
•Catherine Courtney – chair
•Richard Webb – vice-chair
•Catherine Johnson
•Paul Beck
•Thom Miller
Financial or budget considerations: Not applicable.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a broad range of
housing and neighborhood oriented development.
Supporting documents: Housing Authority annual report
2021 workplan
Prepared by: Michele Schnitker, community development deputy director/housing supervisor
Reviewed by: Karen Barton, community development director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
2020 Annual Report
Housing Authority
I.2020 Goals and Key Initiatives: Provide a progress report on your 2020 goals and
list the most significant activities undertaken in 2020.
a.Oversee the administration of the Housing Authority’s (HA) core federally funded
rental assistance programs including review and approval of program policies,
ensuring sound fiscal policies and funding administration, approve the
submission of competitive grant applications to secure new and renewal funding
and review and approve the 5-year Agency Plan and the capital improvement
plan for the Public Housing properties.
i.Despite the Coronavirus pandemic, the HA oversaw the fiscal and
administrative integrity of HUD’s federally funded rental assistance
programs ensuring maximum utilization and administration at a level to
maintain HUD’s High Performer Standard in both the Public Housing and
Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) programs. Staff adjusted to working
remotely and the Board adopted HUD regulatory waivers along with
modified procedures and processes to minimize any negative impact to
households receiving housing assistance during the pandemic. Staff
continued to issue new rental assistance vouchers allocation for the HCV
program, Mainstream for non-elderly disabled individuals and Family
Unification Program in partnership with Hennepin County child
protection services. The Public Housing program continued to maintain
full occupancy and staff worked with tenants whose household income
was impacted by the pandemic to ensure affordable rent levels.
Following modified procedures, staff continued to address maintenance
needs and implement capital improvements in the Public Housing
properties. Combined, the housing programs administered by the HA
provide rental assistance to approximately 500 low-income households in
the community. For the third year in a row, the HA had a clean financial
audit with no findings for FYE 2019.
ii.The HA Board continued to support staff’s submission of competitive grants
applications for HUD renewal funds to ensure continuation of the Family Self-
Sufficiency (FSS) Program and the Resident Service Coordinator at Hamilton
House. The HA received a 2021 renewal grant for the FSS program. The HA
received an additional allocation of 15 Family Unification Program (FUP)
vouchers adding to the 12 FUP vouchers awarded in 2019. An additional
allocation of 4 Mainstream rental vouchers was also received as part of the
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 5)
Title: Housing Authority (HA) 2021 workplan review Page 2
2020 Annual Report
Housing Authority
cares act funding distribution increasing the number of Mainstream vouchers
administered by the HA to 15.
iii.The HA Board held and presided over the annual HA agency plan public
hearing, reviewed and approved the HA’s capital improvement plans and
annual budget for the public housing properties owned and managed by the
HA.
iv.The HA Board continued to support HA partnerships to create and administer
rental assistance opportunities with Hennepin County, Wayside, Vail Place,
STEP and the SLP School District and continued to seek future opportunities
to partner. The HA Board approved the project basing of 12 Housing Choice
Vouchers at Perspectives Inc. supportive housing development and an
additional voucher, for a total of 16 project-based vouchers, at Wayside’s
supportive housing program. The number of participants on the Kids in the
Park rental assistance program was increased from 14 to 17 participants.
b.Oversee the administration of programs that support/promote a well-maintained
housing stock through the use of the city’s housing rehab programs including the
Move-Up-In-The-Park programs, the Discount Loan Programs, the Emergency Rehab
Grants and the Housing Improvement Assistance (HIA) designation. Continue to
explore opportunities to address unmet housing rehab needs.
i.The board reviewed and provided input to staff on the proposed annual
allocation of the CDBG funds, proposed modifications to existing housing
programs and reviewed and approved initial and renewal contracts related to
the administration of various housing programs.
c.Explore/support/provide input on strategies to promote the creation and
preservation of affordable rental and homeownership options for low and
moderate-income households in the community including both new construction
and preservation of existing naturally occurring affordable housing.
ii.The board reviewed and provided input to staff and council on new
housing initiatives and programs to create and preserve affordable
housing including the Crime Free ordinance and the Notice of Eviction
requirement. The HA board also approved the implementation of a
financial incentive program to increase rental owner participation in the
Housing Choice Voucher program.
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 5)
Title: Housing Authority (HA) 2021 workplan review Page 3
2020 Annual Report
Housing Authority
II.2021 Goals: List your board/commission’s most important goals (up to 3) for 2021.
These goals should be statements that reflect the board/commission’s highest
priorities, which may or may not change from year-to-year. For each goal, list 1-2
key initiatives or activities that the Board/Commission will be working on in 2021
that will help make progress toward that goal.
a.Oversee the administration of the Housing Authority’s core federally funded
rental assistance programs including review and approval of program policies,
ensuring sound fiscal policies and funding administration, approving the
submission of competitive grant applications to secure new and renewal funding
and review and approval of the 5-year capital improvement plan for the Public
Housing properties.
i.Oversee the fiscal and administrative integrity of HUD’s federally funded
rental assistance programs ensuring maximize utilization and
administration at a level to maintain HUD’s High Performer Standard.
ii.Apply for additional subsidies/grants to support additional affordable
units and programming.
b.Support and provide input on staffs continued exploration of strategies to
promote the creation and preservation of affordable rental and homeownership
options for low-and moderate-income households in the community. These
strategies include both new construction and preservation of existing naturally
occurring affordable housing and the implementation of tenant protection
initiatives.
i.Staff will continue to explore and develop programs together with
regional partners and housing industry groups to preserve NOAH and to
explore the creation of affordable housing opportunities and tenant
protection initiatives that will be reviewed with the HA board for their
input. Staff plan to create a homeownership program designed to
address the disparities in homeownership for Black, Indigenous and
persons of color (BIPOC) households and other underserved populations.
The Kids in the Park rental assistance program will also increase from 17
to 20 participants in 2021.
c.Oversee the administration of programs that support/promote a well-maintained
housing stock using the city’s housing rehab programs including the Move-Up-In-The-
Park programs, the Discount Loan Programs, the Emergency Rehab Grants and the
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 5)
Title: Housing Authority (HA) 2021 workplan review Page 4
2020 Annual Report
Housing Authority
HIA designation. Continue to explore opportunities to address unmet housing rehab
needs.
i.Continue to oversee administrative contracts and provide review and
input on the city’s housing rehab and design programs. Evaluate
programs annually to ensure they continue to meet the needs of the
community and continue to identify and explore new initiatives to meet
unmet needs.
III.Race Equity and Inclusion: How may you continue to incorporate or promote race
equity and inclusion in the key initiatives/activities identified in above?
i.The HA will administer the core housing programs in conformity with the Civil
Rights Act of 1964, the Fair Housing Act, section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
of 1973, and title II of the Americans with Disabilities `Act of 1990, and will
affirmatively further fair housing by examining programs or proposed
programs with a race an equity lens, identifying any impediments to fair
housing choice within those program. Staff will work with the Fair Housing
Coordinator to ensure that anyone contacting the city with fair housing
complaints to appropriate resources. The Board will attend Race and Equity
training provided by the city.
IV.Strategic Priorities: How is the commission’s work supporting the strategic
priorities?
The work of the HA board and staff supports several of the city’s strategic priorities but
most directly supports the following strategic priority.
St. Louis Park is committed to providing a broad range of housing and neighborhood-
oriented development.
•Providing more diverse and creative housing choices to meet the needs of current and
future residents while preserving existing affordable housing.
•Fostering and facilitating reinvestment and redevelopment of neighborhood-oriented
businesses and services.
•Conducting research to further understand what people want and need access to in
the community, i.e., food, services, housing options, business opportunities, gathering
spaces.
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 5)
Title: Housing Authority (HA) 2021 workplan review Page 5
Board and Commission
Annual Workplan
Presented to council: June 14, 2021
1
Work Plan Template│ Housing Authority
Time
Frame
Initiative Strategic
Priorities
Purpose
(see page 2 for definitions)
Outcome (fill in after
completed)
2021 Oversee the administration of the
Housing Authority’s core federally
funded rental assistance programs
including review and approval of
program policies, ensuring sound
fiscal policies and funding
administration, approving the
submission of competitive grant
applications to secure new and
renewal funding and review and
approval of the 5-year capital
improvement plan for the Public
Housing properties.
☐New Initiative
☒Continued
Initiative
☒Ongoing
Responsibility
☒1 ☐ 2 ☒ 3
☐4 ☐ 5 ☐N/A
☒Commission Initiated Project
☐Council Initiated Project
☐Report Findings (council requested)☐Formal Recommendation (council
requested)
2021 Support and provide input on staffs
continued exploration of strategies
to promote the creation and
preservation of affordable rental
and homeownership options for
low-and moderate-income
households in the community.
These strategies include both new
construction and preservation of
existing naturally occurring
affordable housing and the
implementation of tenant
protection initiatives.
☐New Initiative
☒Continued
Initiative
☒Ongoing
Responsibility
☒1 ☐ 2 ☒ 3☐4 ☐ 5 ☐N/A
☐Commission Initiated Project
☒Council Initiated Project
☒Report Findings (council requested)☐Formal Recommendation (council
requested)
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 5)
Title: Housing Authority (HA) 2021 workplan review Page 6
Board and Commission
Annual Workplan
2
City of St. Louis Park Strategic Priorities
1.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.
2.St. Louis Park is committed to continue to lead in environmental stewardship.
3.St. Louis Park is committed to providing a broad range of housing and neighborhood oriented development.
4.St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options for people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably.
5.St. Louis Park is committed to creating opportunities to build social capital through community engagement
OR Other
2021 Oversee the administration of
programs that support/promote a
well-maintained housing stock using
the city’s housing rehab programs
including the Move-Up-In-The-Park
programs, the Discount Loan
Programs, the Emergency Rehab
Grants and the HIA designation.
Continue to explore opportunities to
address unmet housing rehab needs.
☐New Initiative
☒Continued
Initiative
☒Ongoing
Responsibility
☒1 ☐ 2 ☒ 3☐4 ☐ 5 ☐N/A
☐Commission Initiated Project
☒Council Initiated Project
☒Report Findings (council requested)☐Formal Recommendation (council
requested)
☐New Initiative
☐Continued
Initiative☐Ongoing
Responsibility
☐1 ☐ 2 ☐ 3☐4 ☐ 5 ☐N/A
☐Commission Initiated Project
☐Council Initiated Project
☐Report Findings (council requested)☐Formal Recommendation (council
requested)
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 5)
Title: Housing Authority (HA) 2021 workplan review Page 7
Board and Commission
Annual Workplan
3
Purpose: definitions
Modifications:
Work plans may be modified, to add or delete items, in one of three ways:
•Work plans can be modified by mutual agreement during a joint work session.
•If immediate approval is important, the board or commission can work with their staff liaison to present a modified work plan for city
council approval at a council meeting.
•The city council can direct a change to the work plan at their discretion.
•Project initiated by the board or commission
Commission Initiated Project
•Project tasked to a board or commission by the city council
Council Initiated Project
•Initiated by the city council
•Board and commission will study a specific issue or topic and report its findings or comments to the city council in
writing
•No direct action is taken by the board/commission
Report Findings
•Initiated by the city council
•Board and commission will study a specific issue or topic and makes a formal recommendation to the city council on
what action to take
•A recommendation requires a majoirty of the commissioners' support
Formal Recommendation
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 5)
Title: Housing Authority (HA) 2021 workplan review Page 8
Board and Commission
Annual Workplan
4
Parking Lot
Items that are being considered by the board/commission but not proposed in the annual work plan. Council approval is needed if the
board/commission decides they would like to move forward with an initiative.
Initiative Comments:
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 5)
Title: Housing Authority (HA) 2021 workplan review Page 9
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: June 14, 2021
Written report: 6
Executive summary
Title: Update on Sherman Associates’ proposed Beltline Boulevard Station Redevelopment
Recommended action: Staff and the developer would like feedback on the updated conceptual
site plan and project program for the Beltline Boulevard Station Redevelopment Site at the
southeast corner of CSAH 25 and Beltline Boulevard.
Policy consideration: Does city council support the distribution of an environmental
assessment worksheet (EAW) for Beltline Boulevard Station Redevelopment in the
Environmental Quality Board (EQB) Monitor?
Summary: Sherman proposes to construct the following building components on the 6.6-acre
site at the southeast corner of CSAH 25 and Beltline Boulevard:
•Seven-story mixed-use building with 6 levels of market rate housing (159 units) and
approximately 20,000 square feet of neighborhood commercial space, potentially
anchored by a grocer.
•Five-story market rate apartment building with 160 units.
•Four-story all affordable apartment building with 82 units, 77 units will be available at
60% AMI and five units will be available at 30% AMI. 22 units will be 3-bedrooms.
•362-stall parking ramp, which is proposed to include 268 park and ride stalls, 79 commercial
parking stalls and approximately 1,8000 square feet of retail/commercial space.
•Sustainable features including on and off-site solar, green space, plazas, and public art
will be incorporated throughout the development. The development will adhere to the
city’s green building policy.
The site meets the state’s requirements for a mandatory environmental assessment worksheet
(EAW) with more than 375 attached residential dwelling units.
An EAW is being prepared for the Beltline Boulevard Station redevelopment site. When the
draft is complete, staff will ask city council to authorize distribution of the EAW. Approximately
6 weeks later city council will be asked to approve a resolution of findings and a declaration as
to whether additional review (an environmental impact statement) is needed. These actions do
not obligate the city council to future approval of the proposed development.
Financial or budget considerations: See the accompanying report in this meeting’s agenda
related to the application for tax increment financing assistance.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a broad range of
housing and neighborhood oriented development.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Site plan
Concept images
Prepared by: Jennifer Monson, senior planner
Reviewed by: Sean Walther, planning and zoning supervisor;
Karen Barton, community development director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 6) Page 2
Title: Update on Sherman Associates’ proposed Beltline Boulevard Station Redevelopment
Discussion
Site information: The proposed redevelopment site is located southeast quadrant of CSAH 25
and Beltline Boulevard. The site is immediately north of the Southwest Light Rail (SWLRT)
Beltline Boulevard Station. The site is in the Triangle neighborhood.
Site area (acres): ~7.0 acres
Current use: Vacant land Surrounding land uses:
North: CSAH25
East: General Office Products
South: SWLRT Beltline Station
West: Beltline Boulevard
Current 2040 land use guidance Current zoning
TOD - transit oriented development I-G general industrial
ROW - right of way
Proposed 2040 land use guidance Proposed zoning
TOD - transit oriented development PUD planned unit development
ROW - right of way
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 6) Page 3
Title: Update on Sherman Associates’ proposed Beltline Boulevard Station Redevelopment
Background: On November 17, 2014, the council approved a resolution authorizing submittal of
a federal congestion mitigation air quality (CMAQ) grant for a structured parking ramp to be
located immediately north of the SWLRT Beltline Boulevard Station platform in lieu of a large
parking lot. The EDA was subsequently awarded $6.4 million through the Federal Transit
Administration’s (FTA) CMAQ program that is regionally administered by the Metropolitan
Council.
In July 2017, the EDA conducted a formal request for proposals process to solicit transit-
oriented development proposals for the Beltline Boulevard Station site. The development
objectives for the site listed in the request for proposals were as follows:
• Construct a signature, transit-oriented development (TOD),
• Transform the SWLRT Beltline Boulevard Station Redevelopment Site into an active,
TOD-focused place with:
− Mixed use development (including multi-family residential, office and small
commercial components),
− Housing density to support transit ridership,
− Mixed income housing (both market rate and affordable),
− High-quality shared site amenities,
• Optimize the site’s development and employment potential,
• Integrate development with the adjacent SWLRT Beltline Boulevard Station and connect
with the surrounding areas,
• Build a parking structure for required park-and-ride purposes,
• Demonstrate high standards for environmental sustainability.
The preferred Development Program for the site described in the request for proposals
included:
• Multi-story, multi-family, mixed-use (commercial and residential), mixed-income,
residential buildings.
• More than 180 multi-family housing units consistent with the city’s Inclusionary Housing
Policy.
• At least 8,000 square feet of ground floor commercial space.
• Adequate parking to serve the needs of the proposed redevelopment, primarily located
below buildings or in structures.
• A multi-story office building of at least 80,000 square feet containing ground floor
retail/service spaces. Structured underground parking may be included but is not
required.
• Multi-story parking structure to accommodate the Metropolitan Council’s required 268-
park-and-ride stalls. Requires hazardous materials removal and soil remediation.
• Design of the parking structure must be coordinated with the city, SWLRT project and
the Southwest LRT Project Office (SPO) to ensure park-and-ride and site requirements
are met.
• The parking structure may be designed to accommodate the required parking for the
adjacent office building.
The EDA determined Sherman Associates’ proposal most closely aligned with the city’s vision,
development objectives and preferred programming for the site.
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 6) Page 4
Title: Update on Sherman Associates’ proposed Beltline Boulevard Station Redevelopment
Present considerations: Beltline Boulevard Station will be developed in two phases.
Phase I includes:
• Building one is a seven-story mixed-use building with six levels of market rate housing
(159 units) and approximately 20,000 square feet of neighborhood commercial space,
potentially anchored by a grocer. It would be constructed at the southeast corner of
CSAH 25 and Beltline Boulevard
• A 362-stall parking ramp, including 268 park and ride stalls for the SWLRT, 79 stalls for
commercial parking stalls and approximately 2,000 square feet of retail/commercial space.
• Building two is a five-story market rate apartment building with 160 units to be
constructed east of Building I and fronting CSAH 25.
Phase II includes:
• Building three is a four-story, 82-unit apartment building to be constructed in the
southeast corner of the redevelopment site. All the units in this building would be
affordable with 77 units available to households at 60% AMI and five units would be
available to households at 30% AMI. This building would also feature 67 (82%) two
bedrooms units or larger. Twenty-two units (27%) are three bedrooms. The average unit
floor area is 1,029 square feet.
Altogether, the proposed redevelopment will have 401 apartment units of which 319 (80%) will
be market rate and 82 (20%) would be affordable for 25 years. The housing units will include a
combination of studios, alcoves, and one, two and three bedrooms.
Proposed site plan
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 6) Page 5
Title: Update on Sherman Associates’ proposed Beltline Boulevard Station Redevelopment
Site layout: The site design is similar to what was presented in 2018 when the EDA choose to
work with Sherman for the development of this site but has been further refined.
Located on the northwest corner, the seven-story, commercial mixed-use building establishes
the primary offsite views of the site. The ground floor commercial use, which is potentially a
grocer, fronts Beltline Boulevard, CSAH 25, and an interior surface parking lot. Loading for the
commercial uses is proposed on the building’s south side, adjacent to the parking ramp.
Pedestrian entrances to the commercial use will be provided at the intersection of Beltline
Boulevard and CSAH 25 and from the parking lot. There are opportunities for additional
pedestrian entrances along Beltline Boulevard as shown in the site plan. The ground floor,
street-facing commercial facades will be expected to adhere to the city’s transparency
ordinance. Above the commercial use, residential floors are likely to be stepped back along
Beltline Boulevard to reduce the visual massing of the building on the street. Amenity space is
located inside the building and on the roof of the building’s east wing.
The parking garage, which is separated from the mixed-use building by a pedestrian walkway, is
located on the southwest corner of the site immediately across from the Beltline Boulevard
Station. The parking garage includes approximately 1,800 square feet of commercial in the
southwest corner. Residential parking for the seven-story building is accessed through the
parking garage, from an entrance that is separate from the public park and ride entrance. The
final height of the parking garage is yet to be determined.
The two residential buildings are on the east side of the site. The five-story, market rate
building is in the southeast corner and the 4-story affordable building is in the northeast corner.
Both buildings will include ground floor units with individual entrances, balconies, underground
parking and residential amenities.
Building design: During a 2018 neighborhood meeting held for the site, neighbors expressed a
desire for innovative and unique architecture. This sentiment was echoed by members of city
council for various developments around the city. The architect is still in the architectural
design process and provided some precedent images of the styles they are exploring (see
attached). In general, the architects would like the buildings to exhibit a prominent presence
along the street. They anticipate each building will have its own unique feel surrounding the
site but will visually tie together within the site.
The development team is still exploring unique options for the cladding around the parking
garage and envision opportunities to incorporate public art.
Public spaces: Public and semi-public spaces are located throughout the site. These spaces are
currently being designed, but are planned to include a pocket park and dog run between the
two northern buildings, a wide pedestrian space running north-south through the site, some
public space located near a water retention garden on the northeast corner, and a public plaza
south of the “backage” road, immediately adjacent to Metro Transit’s bus stop. The architects
propose designing portions of parking areas to be like a woonerf, or a shared space for
pedestrians, bicyclists, and cars. Ideally, the developer would like to be able to close portions of
the parking areas to provide for community gathering areas, farmers markets, and the like.
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 6) Page 6
Title: Update on Sherman Associates’ proposed Beltline Boulevard Station Redevelopment
Environmental assessment worksheet (EAW): An EAW is being prepared for the Beltline
Boulevard Station redevelopment site per Minnesota Rules 4410.4300. The City of St. Louis Park
is the responsible government unit (RGU) for review of the EAW. Staff will request city council
to approve a resolution authorizing distribution of the EAW. Then staff will distribute the EAW
to the required list of jurisdictions and send an announcement for publication in the EQB
Monitor. Staff will collect and coordinate responses to all comments received during a 30-day
response period. Then city council will be asked to approve a resolution of findings and a
declaration as to whether additional environmental review (an environmental impact
statement) is needed. These actions do not obligate the city council to future approval of the
proposed development.
Traffic study: A number of mobility network improvements are being completed as part of the
SWLRT project, including the removal of the Highway 7 frontage road adjacent to this
redevelopment site, the construction of a “backage” road near the LRT station, a new road
connection at Monterey Boulevard with a right-in only off CSAH 25, and a new signalized
intersection at Lynn Avenue and CSAH 25.
Sherman proposes pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure on all street frontages surrounding the
site. A multi-use trail and a sidewalk are proposed along CSAH 25 and Beltline Boulevard, a
multi-use trail is proposed along the north side of the backage road, and sidewalks are
proposed along the west side of Monterey Avenue adjacent to the project. Pedestrian
connections are also provided through the site.
A traffic study is being completed for the proposed development to evaluate the future
conditions within the study area and analyze traffic and circulation impacts to the adjacent
roadway network.
The developer proposes relocating portions of the backage road slightly north to accommodate
the installation of a ¾-intersection on Beltline Boulevard to allow southbound cars on Beltline
to turn left into the development. Left-hand turns from the backage road onto Beltline
Boulevard would be prohibited. Similar intersections have been installed on Wooddale Avenue
near the Highway 7 Frontage Road and were installed in 2020 at Monterey Drive and Park
Commons Drive.
The developer also proposes installing a right-out at Monterey Drive and CSAH 25. As currently
designed as part of the SWLRT project, this is a right-in only. The developer and prospective
grocer tenant believe that these access points are necessary to have a successful grocer at the
site.
The traffic study is in the process of being finalized and will be published as part of the EAW.
Utility relocations: The development will need to relocate a Metropolitan Council force sewer
main from the existing CSAH 25 Frontage Road closer to CSAH 25. This relocation will require
Metropolitan Council and Hennepin County approvals. A number of water, sewer and
stormwater utilities running through the site will also need to be relocated.
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 6) Page 7
Title: Update on Sherman Associates’ proposed Beltline Boulevard Station Redevelopment
Inclusionary housing policy: The development is subject to the city’s inclusionary housing
policy. The Beltline Station development would be mixed income with 82 units (20 percent)
offered at affordable rents in one building. Specifically, 77 units would offer affordable rents to
households at 60% AMI and five units would offer affordable rents to households at 30% AMI,
exceeding the city’s inclusionary housing requirements. The development would also provide
22 three-bedroom units (27 percent of the affordable units) to accommodate larger families. An
all affordable building would differ from the Inclusionary Housing Policy requirement that all
affordable units be spread between the various buildings, however, in this case, it is the most
efficient financing and design structure for the affordable housing. It allows the developer to
deliver more affordable housing units, targeting areas of greatest housing need including:
• Family sized housing units.
o 67 (82%) of the affordable units would be two bedrooms or larger.
o 22 units (27%) would be three bedrooms.
o The average unit floor area would be 1,029.
• More deeply affordable units: Five (5) units at 30% AMI
• Well designed and quality housing units in any product type. Examples include:
o Two- and three-bedroom units generally have two baths.
o Structured/tempered parking.
o Ample common area amenities to serve the needs of residents/families.
o Exterior building materials that complement and match the adjacent market rate
buildings.
o Most units would have a balcony or walk out patio.
Climate Action Plan: The developer understands the city’s desire to reduce the city’s overall
carbon emissions by 55 percent by 2030 and the development will exceed the city’s green
building policy requirements as detailed below. The development is also able to contribute to
the city’s goal of reducing vehicle emissions by 25 percent. The site is located adjacent to the
Beltline Boulevard LRT station and the Cedar Lake LRT Regional Trail. In addition, there is great
multimodal access immediately adjacent and surrounding the site including sidewalks, multi-
use trails, and frequent bus service once LRT is operational. These modes link the site to the
immediate amenities, but also to the greater metro area without needing to rely on a vehicle.
Green building policy: The development will adhere to the city’s green building policy and
Sherman intends to exceed the city’s requirements. Examples of sustainable design standards
Sherman has implemented in the past include LEED, Minnesota Green Communities, National
Green Building Standards, SB2030/B3 and ENERGY STAR.
Sherman developed, owns and operates two solar gardens under the community solar program
totaling 6.75 megawatts. Buildings and tenants at Beltline could subscribe to Sherman’s solar
gardens under the community solar program.
Next steps: Staff will request city council authorize distribution of the EAW on June 21, 2021.
Following publication in the EQB Monitor on June 28, 2021, there will be a 30-day comment
period. Staff will collect and coordinate the response to all comments that are received, and
city council will be asked to approve a resolution with findings and declaration of whether
further environmental review is necessary. None of these actions obligate the city council to
future approval of the proposed development.
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 6) Page 8
Title: Update on Sherman Associates’ proposed Beltline Boulevard Station Redevelopment
Also, on June 21, 2021, staff will request the city and EDA extend the preliminary development
agreement to July 31, 2022. Please refer to the June 14, 2021 companion staff report related to
the application for tax increment financing assistance for more information.
Future actions: There are several approvals needed from the city and other agencies for this
project to proceed.
Requests for city council/EDA approvals include:
1.EAW findings and declaration
2.Financial assistance request
3.Utility and right-of-way vacations including vacation of the frontage road
4.Comprehensive plan amendment to re-guide right-of-way to transit-oriented
development
5.Preliminary and final plat, including the creation of the right-of-way for the backage
road and Monterey Drive
6.Preliminary and final PUD
7.Transfer of the vacated frontage road right-of-way from the city to the EDA then to
Sherman
8.Purchase and Redevelopment Contract (including tax increment financing)
Requests for other agencies
1.Any permits identified from other agencies during the EAW process
2.Hennepin County vacation of right of way along CSAH25
3.Hennepin County approval of a right-out onto CSAH25 from Monterey Drive
4.Metropolitan Council / Hennepin County approvals for relocation of the force sewer
main
5.Metropolitan Council approval of the ¾ intersection at Beltline Boulevard and the
backage road and park and ride ramp design
LOADING
1,643 SF
RAMP DN. 6.5%
PUBLIC PARKING
LVL 1 (79 STALLS)
RAMP UP 6.5%
18
20
18
9
14
10 RAMP DN.
RAMP DN.
13
LEASING
AMENITY
AMENITY
AMENITY
LOBBY/
LEASING
LOBBY/
LEASING
POCKET
PARK
DOG RUN
PLAYGROUND
11
15 15
13
AMENITYLOBBY
PEDESTRIAN
PATH
CANOPY
STORM
RETENTION
24
6
SCREENING
WATER
RETENTION
GARDEN
MONTEREY AVE.BELTLINE BLVD.BUILDING 3
5-STORY
MARKET RATE
160 UNITS
GROCERY
19,508 SF
7-STORY
MIXED USE
159 UNITS
BUILDING 2
4-STORY
AFFORDABLE
84 UNITS
H IG H W A Y 2 5
B E L T L IN E S T A T IO N
BUILDING 1
PARKING RAMP
5' - 0"
6' - 0"
6' - 0"3' - 0"5' - 0"6' - 0"6' - 0"RETAIL
1,800 SF
ENTRY
ENTRY
OPPORTUNITY FOR
ADDITIONAL
EXTERIOR ENTRIES
PUBLIC
SEATING10' - 0"1' - 0"10' - 0"5' - 0"10' - 0"8' - 0"6' - 0"
8' - 0"
8' - 0"
5' - 0"
C C C C C
LOADING
C E D A R L A K E T R A IL O V E R P A S S
B U S S T O P
N
SITE PLAN
2146.02BELTLINE BLVD.06/01/2021
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 6)
Title: Update on Sherman Associates’ proposed Beltline Boulevard Station Redevelopment Page 9
2146.02BELTLINE BLVD.06/01/21
AERIAL LOOKING SOUTHEAST AERIAL LOOKING SOUTHWEST
PRELIMINARY BUILDING MASSING
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 6)
Title: Update on Sherman Associates’ proposed Beltline Boulevard Station Redevelopment Page 10
2146.02BELTLINE BLVD.06/01/21
PRELIMINARY BUILDING MASSING
AERIAL LOOKING NORTHEAST AERIAL LOOKING NORTHWEST
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 6)
Title: Update on Sherman Associates’ proposed Beltline Boulevard Station Redevelopment Page 11
2146.02BELTLINE BLVD.06/01/21
LILAC WAY –preference to restore
native trees or shrubbery, rows of lilacs
like D.C. cherry blossoms, three
reserved park/picnic areas
EXPERIMENTAL GRAIN ELEVATOR
– innovation in agriculture and first of its
kind.
RAILROAD – importance to city
development and vitality
PARKS – destinations along major
mobility corridors, support needs of the
community
Beltline Visioning
LOCAL HISTORY
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 6)
Title: Update on Sherman Associates’ proposed Beltline Boulevard Station Redevelopment Page 12
2146.02BELTLINE BLVD.06/01/21
Beltline Visioning
GREEN/SUSTAINABILITY
Saint Louis Park - 2017 Climate Action Plan
•Reduce energy consumption in large commercial
buildings by 30%
•Reduce energy consumption in small-mid size
commercial buildings
•Design and build all new construction to be net-
zero energy
•Reduction of energy consumption in residential
buildings by 30%
•Achieve 100% renewable energy
•Reduce vehicle emissions by 25%
•Reduce solid waste by 50%
Environmental Stewardship
•Residents value park systems and natural areas in
neighborhoods
The site is a hub for transportation; buses, rail, and
bikes will have great access. Use of green stormwater
management and renewable energy opportunities will
set a precedent for vital green initiative in the built
environment.
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 6)
Title: Update on Sherman Associates’ proposed Beltline Boulevard Station Redevelopment Page 13
2146.02BELTLINE BLVD.06/01/21
Exterior Visioning
PRESENCE/PROMINENCE
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 6)
Title: Update on Sherman Associates’ proposed Beltline Boulevard Station Redevelopment Page 14
2146.02BELTLINE BLVD.06/01/21
Exterior Visioning
CAMPOS/MULTI-USE
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 6)
Title: Update on Sherman Associates’ proposed Beltline Boulevard Station Redevelopment Page 15
2146.02BELTLINE BLVD.06/01/21
Exterior Visioning
SHELL/CARAPACE
GJ1
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 6)
Title: Update on Sherman Associates’ proposed Beltline Boulevard Station Redevelopment Page 16
2146.02BELTLINE BLVD.06/01/21
Exterior Visioning
SEAM/STITCH
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 6)
Title: Update on Sherman Associates’ proposed Beltline Boulevard Station Redevelopment Page 17
2146.02BELTLINE BLVD. 06/01/21
Exterior Visioning
EXPRESSIVE/IDENTIFIER
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 6)
Title: Update on Sherman Associates’ proposed Beltline Boulevard Station Redevelopment Page 18
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: June 14, 2021
Written report: 7
Executive summary
Title: Application for Tax Increment Financing Assistance – Beltline Station
Recommended action: This staff report outlines Sherman Associates’ application for Tax
Increment Financing (TIF) in connection with its proposed Beltline Station development.
Policy consideration: Is the EDA willing to extend its Preliminary Development Agreement with
Sherman Associates relative to the Beltline Station redevelopment proposed at the southeast
corner of CSAH 25 and Beltline Boulevard? Is the EDA willing to subsequently consider entering
into a redevelopment contract to reimburse the Developer for up to $8.7 million in qualified
costs through tax increment financing (TIF) generated by the multi-phase project to enable it to
achieve financial feasibility and is it willing to consider providing $3.9 million in TIF assistance
needed for construction of the park & ride ramp required by the Metropolitan Council?
Summary: Sherman Associates (“Developer”) has a Preliminary Development Agreement with
the EDA and city for the seven-acre site at the southeast corner of CSAH 25 and Beltline
Boulevard adjacent to the SWLRT Beltline Blvd. Station. The multi-phase, mixed use, mixed
income, transit-oriented development would include the following components:
•Seven-story mixed-use building with six levels of market rate housing (159 units) and
approximately 20,000 SF of neighborhood commercial potentially anchored by a grocer.
•Five-story market rate apartment building with 160 units.
•Four-story all affordable apartment building with 82 units, of which 77 would be available at
60% AMI and five units would be available at 30% AMI. 22 units would be three-bedrooms.
•320-stall parking ramp, which is proposed to include 268 park & ride stalls, 52 commercial
parking stalls and approximately 1,800 SF of commercial/cafe space.
•On and off-site solar, space for public events, site amenities and public art would be
incorporated throughout the development.
Altogether, the $130 million development would have approximately 401 apartment units of
which 82 (20%) would be affordable for 25 years. The level of affordable rents (between 30 and
60 percent of AMI) would exceed the city's Inclusionary Housing Policy requirements.
Financial or budget considerations: Due to considerable extraordinary costs associated with the
redevelopment site and other costs associated with meeting city expectations and requirements,
the Developer applied to the EDA for tax increment financing (TIF) assistance. Upon examination
of the project’s pro forma, the EDA’s financial consultant determined that up to $8.7 million in TIF
assistance is warranted to enable the major transit-oriented development to proceed, and up to
$3.9 million in TIF assistance is warranted for the park & ride ramp. Such assistance would be
provided via pay-as-you-go TIF Notes and would derive from the establishment of a new
redevelopment TIF district.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a broad range of
housing and neighborhood oriented development.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Prepared by: Greg Hunt, economic dev. coordinator; Jason Aarsvold, sr. municipal advisor, Ehlers
Reviewed by: Karen Barton, community development director
Approved by: Cindy Walsh, interim deputy city manager/operation and recreation director
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 7) Page 2
Title: Application for Tax Increment Financing Assistance – Beltline Station
Discussion
Site information: The Beltline Blvd. Station Redevelopment Site is located at the southeast
quadrant of the CSAH 25 (an extension of State Highway 7) and Beltline Blvd. intersection; less
than ½ mile east of Highway 100. The site is bounded by CSAH 25 on the north, Beltline Blvd. on
the west and the Cedar Lake Regional Trail and the future SWLRT line (with its Beltline Blvd.
Station) on the south as shown in the illustration below. The gross redevelopment site area is
approximately seven acres and consists of four parcels:
•4601 Highway 7 (owned by the EDA)
•3130 Monterey Ave S (owned by the EDA),
•Road right of way (owned by the city)
•4725 Highway 7 (owned by Beltline Development LLC an affiliate of Sherman
Associates).
In 2018, the former industrial building located on the 4601 Highway 7 property was designated
structurally substandard and subsequently removed by the EDA. The former commercial
building on the 4725 Highway 7 property was removed by the Metropolitan Council in 2020 in
preparation for the future SWLRT park & ride.
Proposed redevelopment site for Beltline Station
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 7) Page 3
Title: Application for Tax Increment Financing Assistance – Beltline Station
Background: In November 2014, the council approved a resolution authorizing submittal of a
federal Congestion Mitigation Air Quality (CMAQ) grant for a structured parking ramp to be
located immediately north of the SWLRT Beltline Blvd Station platform in lieu of a large parking
lot. The EDA was subsequently awarded a $6.4 million grant through the Federal Transit
Administration’s (FTA) CMAQ program that is regionally administered by the Metropolitan Council.
In July 2017, the EDA conducted a formal Request for Proposals process to solicit transit-
oriented development proposals for the Beltline Blvd. Station Redevelopment Site. The EDA
determined Sherman Associates’ proposal most closely aligned with the city’s vision,
development objectives and preferred programming for the site. Subsequently the EDA and
Sherman Associates entered into a Preliminary Development Agreement (PDA) on February 5,
2018. Sherman Associates then purchased the 4725 Highway 7 property for the future park &
ride in February 2019.
On June 17, 2019 the EDA and city approved a First Amendment to the Preliminary
Development Agreement extending the agreement with Sherman to June 30, 2020. Since then,
the parties have been working collaboratively on a joint development (site and building) vision
for the site. Additionally, staff, Ehlers (the EDA’s financial consultant), and Sherman Associates
have been discussing all development costs, financial feasibility, and the necessary level of
financial assistance needed for the multi-phase development.
On October 21, 2019, the EDA approved a Subrecipient Agreement with the Metropolitan
Council which specified the terms under which the CMAQ funds would be disbursed to the EDA.
On November 2, 2020, the EDA entered into a Cooperative Construction Agreement with the
Metropolitan Council under which the EDA committed to constructing a multi-level parking
structure on the 4725 Highway 7 property just prior to the start of revenue service. The parking
facility is to provide 268 public park & ride stalls and is to be constructed in compliance with
specified federal requirements. Additional parking stalls may be included in the park & ride
structure to serve the larger mixed-use, transit-oriented development on the site. Those
additional stalls would need to be funded locally outside of the CMAQ grant.
Subsequently, assuming the EDA approves the extension of the PDA, the EDA will be asked to
enter into a Purchase and Redevelopment Contract with Beltline Development LLC (Sherman
Associates) under which the Developer would agree to purchase the redevelopment site from
the EDA and construct the Beltline Station multi-phase development as approved. As part of
that contract, Sherman would also agree to finance, construct, operate and maintain the ramp
on behalf of the EDA. Upon completion of the ramp, it is envisioned that the EDA, Metropolitan
Council and Sherman Associates would enter into an operations and maintenance agreement in
connection with ongoing use and maintenance of the ramp.
Present considerations: Staff and Sherman are currently fine tuning the proposed site and
building plans, development program, and infrastructure requirements for Beltline Station. The
amended PDA between the EDA and Sherman Associates expires on June 30, 2020 unless it is
extended. Given the significant progress made to date and the parties’ ongoing mutual interest
in bringing the proposed redevelopment to fruition, the parties wish to extend the PDA to June
30, 2022 (out of an abundance of caution) by which point the parties hope to reach a formal
Purchase and Redevelopment Contract. The proposed PDA extension is scheduled for
consideration June 21, 2021 and requires approval by both the EDA and council.
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 7) Page 4
Title: Application for Tax Increment Financing Assistance – Beltline Station
The project is proposed to be developed in two phases.
Phase I would include:
• Site work and utility relocation throughout the entire redevelopment site.
• A seven-story mixed-use building with six levels of market rate housing (approximately
159 units) and 19,700 SF of ground floor commercial space anchored by a grocer along
with below grade parking. It would be constructed at the northwest corner of the
redevelopment site at the intersection of CSAH 25 and Beltline Blvd.
• A 320+/-- stall parking ramp, including 268 park & ride stalls as required for the SWLRT,
52 stalls for commercial parking stalls and approximately 1,800 square feet of ground
floor commercial for a potential café.
• A five-story market rate apartment building with approximately 160 units to be
constructed in the southeast corner of the site with below grade parking.
Phase II would include:
• A four-story, approximately 82-unit apartment building with below grade parking to be
constructed in the northeast corner of the site. All the units in this building would offer
affordable rents with 77 units available to households at 60% AMI and five units
available to households at 30% AMI. This building would also feature 22 three-bedroom
units to accommodate larger families. The timing of this building is due to the cyclical
nature of the award of critical financing sources, including Low Income Housing Tax
Credits (LIHTCs) and tax-exempt bonds from Minnesota Management and Budget
(MMB). MMB accepts application and awards allocations of tax-exempt bonds in
January of each year. The Developer plans to apply for tax-exempt bonds in January
2022. If awarded, it must then apply for LIHTCs and close on financing within 180 days.
This would lead to a Phase II construction period of third quarter 2022 through fourth
quarter 2023. As applications for tax-exempt bonds are competitive and sometimes
oversubscribed, there is the possibility an award is not made to this phase in January
2022. In that scenario, the Developer has committed to reapplying and ultimately
delivering the affordable housing at this location once an award is made.
According to the Developer:
Beltline Station will have its own unique characteristics while still fitting in with the fabric
of surrounding area. We are aiming to energize and stabilize the broader St. Louis Park
community with our design. The design team is excited to incorporate St. Louis Park’s
personality into carefully chosen architectural pieces. Options being considered include
outdoor gardens, fountains, street furniture, and building decoration. We are also
considering an array of landscaping, gates, steps, porches, walkways, and pocket parks
that will properly transition various elements of the site.
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 7) Page 5
Title: Application for Tax Increment Financing Assistance – Beltline Station
Proposed Beltline Station site plan
Altogether, the proposed development would have approximately 401 apartment units of which
319 (80%) would be market rate and 82 (20%) would be affordable for 25 years. The housing
units would include a combination of studios, alcoves, and one, two and three bedrooms.
Sherman Associates would own and manage the multifamily housing for the long term.
Below is the development’s tentative construction schedule depending on Developer’s ability to
secure financing:
Building Commencement Completion
Mixed use building Quarter 1 2022 Quarter 2 2023
Park & ride Quarter 2 2022 Quarter 2 2023
160-unit building Quarter 1 2022 Quarter 2 2023
82-unit building Quarter 3 2022 Quarter 4 2023
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 7) Page 6
Title: Application for Tax Increment Financing Assistance – Beltline Station
Inclusionary housing policy: Beltline Station would be a mixed income development with 82
units (20 percent) offered at affordable rents in one building. Specifically, 77 units would offer
rents to households at 60% AMI and five units would offer rents to households at 30% AMI
exceeding the city’s inclusionary housing requirements. The development would also provide
22 three-bedroom units (27 percent of the affordable units) to accommodate larger families. An
all affordable building would differ from the Inclusionary Housing Policy requirement that all
affordable units be spread between a project’s various buildings, however, in this case, it is the
most efficient financing and design structure for the affordable housing. It allows the Developer
to deliver more affordable housing units, targeting areas of greatest housing need. For instance,
it allows the Developer to offer:
• Family sized housing units. 67 (82%) of the affordable units would be two bedrooms or
larger. 22 units (27%) would be three bedrooms. The average unit’s square footage
would be 1,029.
• Five units with deeper affordability at 30% AMI.
• 22 three-bedroom units.
• Well-designed and quality housing units in any product type. Examples include:
o Two- and Three-bedroom units generally have two baths.
o Structured/tempered parking.
o Ample common area amenities to serve the needs of residents/families.
o Exterior building materials that complement and match the adjacent market rate
buildings.
o Most units would have a balcony or walk out patio.
One of the reasons Sherman was selected as the developer of the Beltline Blvd Station
redevelopment site was that it has over 40 years’ experience delivering quality affordable
housing. The proposed affordable housing units would be well designed, attractive and have
access to development amenities. Sherman recently completed projects in Minneapolis, St.
Paul, and Coon Rapids with mixed income arrangements like the one proposed at Beltline
Station and they have demonstrated that they performed well.
Green building policy: Sherman is also known for including leading edge sustainable
components within its developments. Sherman developed, owns and operates two solar
gardens under the community solar program totaling 6.75 megawatts. Buildings and tenants at
Beltline Station could subscribe to Sherman’s solar gardens under the community solar
program. Sherman has committed to delivering a development that not only meets but exceeds
the city’s current Green Building Policy requirements. Examples of sustainable design standards
the Developer has implemented in other projects include: LEED, MN Green Communities,
National Green Building Standards, SB2030/B3 and ENERGY STAR. Sustainability features likely
to be included in the Beltline Station development include: Energy Star rated appliances, low E
glass, LED lighting, motion sensitive stairwell and garage lighting fixtures, energy efficient
mechanical systems, and water saving devices, Additionally, the development will include
ample bike parking and electric vehicle charging stations.
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 7) Page 7
Title: Application for Tax Increment Financing Assistance – Beltline Station
The Developer: Sherman Associates is a Minneapolis-based, fully integrated development
company with an extensive record of successful urban/suburban mixed-use, mixed-income,
TOD projects along with substantial affordable and sustainable housing experience. The award-
winning company has over 40 years of experience and its portfolio includes:
• Over 8,500 residential units.
• Over 600,000 square feet of commercial space.
• 29 completed condominium projects.
• Over $2 billion in real estate development.
Sherman has the financial capacity to develop a project of the scale envisioned by the city and
is a long-term developer-owner.
Application for Tax Increment Financing assistance: It has long been assumed that any major
development at Beltline Station would require a sizable amount of financial assistance given
numerous known site challenges. This assumption has been borne out through due diligence
which verified that there are considerable extraordinary costs associated with redeveloping the
subject site along with other requirement costs. These extraordinary costs include but, are not
limited to utility relocations (some of which are very large), wetland mitigation, environmental
remediation, shoring and other site work; all of which need to be completed at the outset to
make the site construction ready. The 82 affordable units with below market rents for 25 years
and the sustainability requirements for the development also significantly impact the project’s
financial performance. The substantial cost of underground structured parking in all three
buildings as well as the costs to meet the city’s vision, strategic priorities and development
objectives further contribute to the development’s financial gap. Additionally, constructing the
proposed multi-functional ramp to federal and local requirements and including desired
commercial space is estimated to cost approximately $13 million. While a portion of that cost is
covered by federal and regional sources, a sizable financial gap remains. To mitigate the above
costs which all contribute to the gap in the project’s proforma, the Developer applied for tax
increment financing (TIF) assistance. During a September 2019 study session, the city council
voiced a willingness to provide financial assistance to facilitate the development’s feasibility.
Overview of proposed project’s sources and uses: Tax increment financing uses most of the
increased future property taxes generated by a new development to finance certain qualified
development costs incurred by that project for a limited period to enable the redevelopment to
move forward. Ehlers examined the information provided within the Developer’s TIF
application based on general industry standards for land, construction, and project costs; rents;
operating expenses; fees; underwriting and financing criteria; and project cash flow. Based on
this analysis, Ehlers consulted with staff to determine the extent to which the proposed project
exhibits a financial gap justifying the provision of TIF assistance
According to Ehlers, the above costs created a significant financial gap in the development’s
sources and uses statement preventing it from achieving a market level of return and debt
service coverage necessary to attract financing. To offset a sufficient portion of these costs and
mitigate the development’s estimated financial gap, Ehlers and staff worked with Sherman over
the past year to assemble a financial assistance package to enable the major, multi-phase
redevelopment to become financially feasible, while preserving city resources to the greatest
extent possible.
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 7) Page 8
Title: Application for Tax Increment Financing Assistance – Beltline Station
The estimated total development cost (TDC) to construct the housing and mixed-use
components of the Beltline Station project is approximately $117.88 million. The project’s
anticipated sources and uses are summarized in the tables below along with their respective
percentage of the total development cost.
Proposed level of assistance: Sherman’s initial request for TIF assistance related to the housing
and mixed-use components totaled just over $12.2 million. Ehlers reviewed that initial request
and the Developer’s pro forma to confirm assumptions meet industry standards for
construction, land, and project costs, market rate rents, operating expenses, developer fees,
underwriting and financing criteria, and return on investment. Based on this analysis, Ehlers
concluded the above components’ total need for TIF assistance could be reduced to just over
$8.7 million if the Developer increased its equity contribution and/or reduced its proposed
developer fee, which is slightly higher than typical for city-assisted projects.
As noted earlier, the need for tax increment assistance related to the housing and mixed-use
components is being driven by four primary forces. These include extraordinary site costs (such
as environmental remediation, poor soils, utility relocations, shoring, etc.), funding the desired
level of affordable housing, structured and underground parking, and supporting returns on
investment to attract necessary capital for the overall development to be successful.
The extraordinary costs related to the housing and mixed-use phases total just over $4.5
million. These costs include environmental remediation, utility relocation, geopiers, and site
grading to provide integration with the parking garage.
The affordable housing on the site will include an 82-unit low income housing tax credit (LIHTC)
project which will provide more affordability than the city’s inclusionary housing policy
requires. In addition, the project is being built with larger unit sizes, more two- and three-
SOURCES
Amount Pct.Per Unit
First Mortgage 68,394,629 58.0%170,560
TIF Note A - Housing 8,720,762 7.4%21,748
Tax Credit Equity 7,538,359 6.4%18,799
Developer Equity 29,595,813 25.1%73,805
City - AHTF 618,238 0.5%1,542
Other Grants 1,500,000 1.3%3,741
Deferred Developer Fee 1,514,970 1.3%3,778
TOTAL SOURCES 117,882,771 100%293,972
USES
Amount Pct.Per Unit
Acquisition Costs 6,015,000 5.1%15,000
Construction Costs 92,869,324 78.8%231,594
Extraodrinary Site Costs 4,583,647 3.9%11,431
Professional Services 5,203,685 4.4%12,977
Financing Costs 1,661,098 1.4%4,142
Developer Fee 7,150,017 6.1%17,830
Reserves 400,000 0.3%998
TOTAL USES 117,882,771 100%293,972
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 7) Page 9
Title: Application for Tax Increment Financing Assistance – Beltline Station
bedroom units, and inclusion of a second bathroom in the two- and three-bedroom units.
These features are being included to accommodate families. They also result in additional
project and operating costs, leaving a gap in the funding for the project and makes this housing
development infeasible without financial assistance.
In addition, to the proposed TIF, it is proposed that $618,238 in assistance would come from
the city’s Affordable Housing Trust fund (AHTF). The trust fund dollars would help the
development exceed inclusionary housing goals by providing five units at or below 30% of the
area median income (AMI), which meets the AHTF policy guidelines for use. The cost
differential for the project to provide the 30% AMI units exceeds $650,000 based on Ehlers’
review.
The Developer proposes to pay the EDA a total of $6,015,000 for its land in this development.
This land acquisition payment allows the project to balance market value without increasing the
need for long-term financial assistance.
The proposed assistance would likely include one or more pay-as-you-go TIF Notes in the total
amount of $8.7 million to facilitate repayment of the qualified expenses as quickly as possible.
Depending on how the Notes are structured, it is estimated that the mixed use and market rate
portions of the project could be paid off within 8 years; the affordable component, however,
may take up to 26 years.
Parking ramp: The total cost for constructing the parking ramp is estimated at $12.8 million.
This includes all hard and soft costs, as well the extraordinary site costs attributable to the
structure. A federal Construction Mitigation and Air Quality (CMAQ) grant will cover
$6,453,054 of the cost. The Cooperative Construction Agreement with the Met Council provides
another $2.5 million. This leaves a gap of $3.9 million. The proposed sources and uses for the
parking ramp are as follows.
As part of the overall TIF package, the Developer has agreed to finance the remaining $3.9
million gap necessary to construct the parking ramp. This will cover the local match required
under the CMAQ grant requirements, as well as the remaining gap, meaning the EDA will not
have to bond for construction of the ramp or use any Development Fund dollars. Based on
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 7) Page 10
Title: Application for Tax Increment Financing Assistance – Beltline Station
current assumptions, the Developer would receive additional tax increment assistance to repay
the financing they would obtain to fund the $3.9 million project gap.
In addition to the Developer’s willingness to finance the parking ramp, Sherman has already
purchased the property on which the ramp is to be constructed. This acquisition was
undertaken with a loan from the EDA and has been partially repaid. The remaining loan balance
of approximately $877,500 is due on June 30, 2021. As part of the negotiated financing
package, that repayment date would be extended to when closing occurs on the financing for
all of Phase I. Extension of the loan agreement would be included along with the proposed
extension of the Preliminary Development Agreement scheduled for June 21, 2021.
Staff and Ehlers carefully evaluated and considered the proposed level of tax increment
assistance required to bring this major transit-oriented development to fruition and meet city
policy and development objectives for the site. Through detailed analysis and negotiation, the
determination was made that a multiphase development of this scale and scope could not
proceed without the recommended levels of assistance.
Consistent with previous EDA redevelopment agreements, a "lookback" provision would be
incorporated into the future purchase and redevelopment contract with the Developer. The
lookback provision ensures that if the project’s total development costs are appreciably lower
and/or the development’s net operating income is appreciably higher than the estimates
provided, the EDA would share economically in the success of the development by reducing the
amount of TIF assistance provided.
TIF district: The tax increment to be provided to the proposed development would derive from
a newly established redevelopment TIF district.
Consulting firm LHB conducted a TIF district feasibility analysis to determine if the proposed TIF
district for the Beltline Station project qualified as a redevelopment district under Minnesota
Statutes, Section 469.174, Subdivision 10. After inspecting the five subject properties, LHB
evaluated each against current statutory criteria and concluded in its Report of Inspection
Procedures and Results for Determining Qualifications of a Tax Increment Financing District as a
Redevelopment District: St. Louis Park Beltline Redevelopment TIF District dated June 4, 2019
that the proposed TIF district qualifies as a redevelopment district. Such a TIF district would
allow for up to 26 years of tax increment by State Statute.
Property value and taxes: The current, combined estimated market value of the subject
redevelopment site is just over $7.4 million. This would be the proposed TIF district’s Base
Value. The combined estimated market value of the site upon the proposed development’s
completion (for TIF estimation purposes) is over $106 million. Most of this value (minus the
Base Value) would be captured as tax increment and used to make payments on the TIF Notes
to the Developer until they are paid off. The city, county and school district would continue to
receive the property taxes collected on the subject site’s Base Value.
Analysis of development’s conformity with the city’s TIF Policy: The following table lists the
objectives, qualifications and guidelines for the use of tax increment financing as specified in
the city’s TIF Policy, as well as how and whether the proposed development meets those
standards.
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 7) Page 11
Title: Application for Tax Increment Financing Assistance – Beltline Station
TIF Policy Compliance Table
Factor Requirement/Guideline Proposed Project Met?
Applicable TIF
District
Redevelopment/Renewal & Renovation/
Housing/Economic Development
Redevelopment Yes
Statutory TIF
district
requirements
Redevelopment District
70% site coverage,
More than 50% of bldgs structurally
substandard & are reasonably distributed
76% site coverage,
67% of bldgs found to be
structurally substandard
reasonably distributed
Yes
Use of TIF Proposed costs are statutorily eligible for
reimbursement through proposed TIF
district.
Proposed uses of tax
increment are statutorily
eligible through
redevelopment TIF
districts.
Yes
TIF Objectives TIF Policy requires projects to meet one or
more of objectives for use of TIF.
Project meets all
applicable policy
objectives.
Yes
Minimum
qualifications
Applicable Strategic Priorities Proposed project provides
broad range of housing
and neighborhood-
oriented development;
furthers climate action
goals, racial equity &
inclusion goals, and
provides for a variety of
options for people to
make their way around
the city.
Yes
Meets Inclusionary Housing Policy
requirements (if applicable)
Project will exceed
Inclusionary Housing
Policy requirements.
Yes
Meets Green Building Policy requirements Project will exceed Green
Bldg Policy requirements.
Yes
Consistent with city's Comprehensive Plan
and Zoning Ordinances, or approvals
pending
Project is compatible with
& supports existing and
future land uses for the
site.
Yes
Removes contamination, blight and/or will
not generate significant environmental
problems
Project removes blight
and contamination.
Yes
Helps facilitate desired development that
would not occur without assistance
Proposed assistance
would facilitate desired
development and would
not occur without such
assistance.
Yes
Developer has experience and capability to
construct proposed project
Developer has extensive
experience and capability
to construct proposed
project.
Yes
Developer plans to retain ownership of
project long enough to stabilize occupancy
Developer plans to retain
ownership of project for
the long term.
Yes
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 7) Page 12
Title: Application for Tax Increment Financing Assistance – Beltline Station
Desired
qualifications
Incorporates Livable Communities, New
Urbanism, TOD principles (i.e. mixed-use,
urban design, human scale, walkable, public
spaces).
Proposed project
incorporates Livable
Communities, New
Urbanism, and TOD design
principles.
Yes
High quality development (sound
architectural design, quality construction
and materials)
Proposed project will
incorporate high quality
design and materials.
Yes
Provides rents at deeper affordability levels
such as 30% or 50% AMI (if applicable)
5 units will have rents
affordable to households
at 30% AMI.
Yes
Provides units for families (i.e. 3- & 4-
bedroom units (if applicable)
22 3-bedroom units
proposed.
Yes
Complements and/or adds value to
neighborhood by providing public elements
or placemaking features (if applicable)
Project will complement
and add value to
neighborhood by
providing mixed income
housing, commercial
businesses, transit and
public features.
Yes
Proposed development will likely stimulate
further investment in surrounding
neighborhood
Project will stimulate
further development to
the east and south.
Yes
Provides new, or retained, employment (if
applicable)
Employment will be
created by project’s
commercial businesses.
Yes
The Increase in market value of the site after
redevelopment is more than 8 times the
original market value
The estimated market
value of the site after
redevelopment is more
than 14 times the original
market value.
Yes
Will have a positive community impact Proposed project will have
a major positive impact.
Yes
Will not place extraordinary demands on city
services
City departments
determined proposed
project will not place
extraordinary demands on
city services.
Yes
Land price for project site is within market
range.
Land price for project site
is within market range.
Yes
Ratio of private to city investment (TIF and
grants) is more than $5 to $1
Proposed private to city
investment is $8.85 to $1.
Yes
The proposed amount of TIF assistance or
term of the TIF Note is within range of
similar developments which received TIF
assistance.
The proposed amount of
TIF assistance is generally
within range of similar
developments.
Yes
Proposed TIF assistance will be provided on
a pay-as-you-go-basis.
Proposed TIF will be
provided on a pay-as-you-
go-basis.
Yes
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 7) Page 13
Title: Application for Tax Increment Financing Assistance – Beltline Station
Given that the proposed development meets statutory requirements, as well as all objectives,
qualifications and guidelines as specified in the city’s TIF Policy and is consistent with the
Beltline Station Development Objectives, staff finds the Developer’s proposed request for TIF
assistance meets the city’s requirements for the use of tax increment financing.
Summary and recommendation: Based upon its analysis of the project’s proforma, Ehlers
determined that the proposed Beltline Station redevelopment has a verified financial gap and is
not financially feasible but-for the provision of tax increment financing. To offset this gap, it is
proposed that the EDA consider reimbursing the Developer up to $8.7 million in TIF assistance
to facilitate development of the three multifamily housing buildings and $3.9 million in TIF
assistance to facilitate development of the park & ride ramp required by the SWLRT project.
The assistance would be provided on a pay-as-you-go basis from tax increment generated by
the project. The terms of the proposed TIF Notes would range between 7 to 26 years. Such
assistance would derive from a new redevelopment TIF district upon completion of the
proposed project and stabilization.
In summary, providing tax increment financing assistance to the proposed Beltline Station
makes it possible to:
• Redevelop formerly blighted property that is underutilized and environmentally
impacted property at a long-planned, multi-modal transit location within the city.
• Provide the city with a major mixed use, mixed income, transit-oriented development
consistent the city’s strategic priorities, comprehensive plan, and the vision and
development objectives for the Beltline Station. This transformational development will
spur additional investment to the east and south.
• Further diversify the city’s housing stock with 401 new multifamily housing units
adjacent to multi-modal transportation. Of those, five would be affordable to
households at 30% AMI, 77 would be affordable to households at 60% AMI and the
remaining 319 units would be leased at market rate. The reduced rent units would be
kept affordable for at least 25 years. Additionally, 22 of the affordable units would have
3 bedrooms to accommodate larger families.
• Add approximately 21,800 square feet of new commercial development to
accommodate a prospective grocer and café to the benefit of development residents,
the surrounding area as well as the adjacent local and regional trail and light rail.
• Include numerous green building features including on-site, roof top solar and off-site
solar garden offsetting the majority /entirety of the development’s anticipated
electrical needs in support of the city’s climate action goals.
• Construct a joint use park & ride structure (instead of a large surface parking lot) as
required under agreements with the Metropolitan Council that includes space for a café
adjacent to the light rail station as well as local and regional trails.
• Provide a pedestrian, bike friendly development with public features and public art.
• Facilitate approximately $130 million of new investment, further invigorating the
surrounding neighborhood and creating another major destination development within
the city.
• Bring the subject properties to optimal market value and generate nearly $5 million in
property taxes further adding to the city’s tax capacity and economic vitality.
• Construct quality buildings (e.g. sound architectural design, quality construction and
materials) with structured parking, public features, and sustainable elements.
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 7) Page 14
Title: Application for Tax Increment Financing Assistance – Beltline Station
Given these findings, staff supports providing TIF assistance to the Beltline Station development
as outlined to enable it to proceed.
Next steps: Provided the EDA is supportive of facilitating the proposed Beltline Station
development with tax increment assistance at the recommended levels, the next steps in the
TIF approval process would be as follows:
1. Consideration of Amendment to Preliminary Development and Loan Agreements
(June 21, 2021)
2. Conveyance of vacated city right-of-way to EDA for subsequent conveyance to
Developer.
3. Schedule public hearing date for establishment of proposed TIF district.
4. Negotiation of business terms for the provision of tax increment assistance.
5. Review of proposed business terms of purchase and redevelopment contract.
6. Hold public hearing on the establishment of the proposed TIF District.
7. Consideration of TIF district plan – EDA and city council.
8. Consideration of purchase and redevelopment contract – EDA.
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: June 14, 2021
Written report: 8
Executive summary
Title: Food Access and Insecurity Study update
Recommended action: None at this time. This report provides an update on the Wilder
Foundation 2018 Food Access and Insecurity Study.
Policy consideration: None at this time.
Summary: The Food Access and Insecurity Study was undertaken by Wilder Research for the
city in 2018 and the report was presented to council in March 2020. The study researched to
what extent residents experience food insecurity or lack access to food, what resources and
services are available, what are the gaps in access and what the city’s role could be in
addressing the issue. The study resulted in a number of recommendations to which staff have
been working to develop programs, policies, and initiatives to address those recommendations.
Financial or budget considerations: None at this time.
Strategic priority considerations:
•St. Louis Park is committed to providing a broad range of housing and neighborhood
oriented development.
•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.
•St. Louis Park is committed to creating opportunities to build social capital through
community engagement.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Prepared by: Laura Smith, wellness and volunteer coordinator
Reviewed by: Karen Barton, community development director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 8) Page 2
Title: Food Access and Insecurity Study update
Discussion
Background: The Food Access and Insecurity Study was undertaken by Wilder Research for the
city in 2018. The study researched to what extent residents experience food insecurity or lack
access to food, what resources and services are available, what are the gaps in access and what
the city’s role could be in addressing the issue. As a result of the study, the following
recommendations were made by Wilder Research:
Recommendations:
•Establish and support a local, cross-sector task force to establish priorities and strategies,
increase community awareness and guide collaborations.
•Identify creative strategies to increase transportation options, including expanding
volunteer driver programs and continue to advocate for metro transit to expand transit
routes.
•Increase awareness of existing food resources, particularly programs and services reaching
youth, aging adults, immigrant and refugee communities and residents experiencing
economic insecurity.
•Assess the feasibility of additional strategies to increase access to healthy, affordable food.
•Identify local data sources that can be used to track changes of who is experiencing food
insecurity in St. Louis Park.
Present considerations: At the time the study was completed, city staff reached out to several
groups involved in food-related assistance areas to facilitate the convening of a local, cross-
sector task force to establish priorities and strategies, increase community awareness and guide
collaborations. Three meetings with STEP took place to discuss the cross-sector task force and
staff were advised that a task force may be redundant, as the parties involved already keep in
contact with each other and share resources. It was felt that a more formal organization of the
group would not necessarily accomplish anything more than what is currently being
accomplished by the organizations in collaboration, and suggested the city continue to
prioritize factors such as housing, transportation or mental health that impact food insecurity.
Additionally, the following activities, initiatives and programs have taken place in relation to the
recommended actions:
•The fire department has partnered with an organization called Every Meal to provide
people with nutritious and nonperishable meals. Meals can be picked up in both fire station
lobbies.
•The “Be There Initiative” was created by city staff which includes food access resources for
our aging community.
•Improvements were made on the city website for easier access to community garden
information.
•The city partnered with SEEDS FEEDS to scope the feasibility of a weekly farmers market.
Due to lack of staff time from both SEEDS FEEDS and the city, the decision was made to not
pursue a farmer’s market.
Next steps: City staff are continuing to work with STEP, other food-access service agencies, and
SLP public schools to provide opportunities to address food access and insecurity in St. Louis
Park.
Meeting: Study session
Meeting date: June 14, 2021
Written report: 9
Executive summary
Title: Amendments to chapter 6 and chapter 8 of the City Code
Recommended action: This report is intended to provide city council with information on
upcoming amendments to chapters 6 and 8 of the City Code. No action is required unless
Council requests further discussion before first reading.
Policy consideration: Does council wish to proceed with the ordinance amendments proposed
for building regulations and business licensing?
Summary: Regular review of city ordinance language is important to ensure that the code is
consistent with state and federal laws, to respond to requests from the community, and to
adapt to industry changes.
The city attorney has advised staff that a few sections of city ordinances are not in compliance
with recent changes in Minnesota state statutes and federal case law. Changes required include
administrative updates to reflect clerical changes to the Minnesota State Building Code and
revising requirements for solicitor and peddler licensing to align with findings of the U.S.
Supreme Court. Staff is currently following the attorney’s recommendations in administering
the programs to be in compliance. These revisions are considered a code cleanup action.
Some food and beverage establishments have desired to allow dogs to accompany persons
patronizing designated outdoor patio areas. The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has
clarified with the city that adoption of an ordinance permitting dogs within the outdoor patio
areas of these establishments is necessary.
Staff is proposing changes to simplify the certificate of competency card renewals for
contractors working under a mechanical contractor’s license. These changes will align St. Louis
Park with other municipalities, making it easier for contractors to comply and for staff to
process applications.
This set of proposed amendments will provide increased clarity and improved effectiveness in
the administration of business licensing and building regulations.
Financial or budget considerations: No significant financial expenditures or revenue will occur
due to these proposed revisions
Strategic priority consideration: Not applicable.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Prepared by: Michael Pivec, property maintenance & licensing manager
Reviewed by: Brian Hoffman, director of building & energy
Approved by: Tom Harmening, city manager
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 9) Page 2
Title: Amendments to chapter 6 and chapter 8 of the City Code
Discussion
Present considerations: Recommended amendments to chapter 6 and chapter 8 of the City
Code are detailed below.
Chapter 6. Buildings and building regulations, Section 6-66
Minnesota State Building Code. Clean up amendment for adoption language of the Minnesota
State Building Code as required by state statute. This will not have any impact on our
administration of the state code within the city.
Chapter 8. Businesses and licenses, Section 8-1 thru Section 8-580 Clean up amendments to
several sections regulating Peddlers, Solicitors, and Transient Merchants:
•The proposed amendment would remove people who canvas or solicit from house to
house for contributions or support for any charitable, religious, civic, educational,
philanthropic, social service, welfare, or organization from the definition of solicitor.
The United States Supreme Court has held that seeking donations is a form of advocacy
entitled to a high level of First Amendment free speech protection.
•The licensure and fee requirement for solicitors is removed because of federal interstate
commerce preemption concerns. Under the above amendments only peddlers would be
subject to background checks. Federal courts have held that a background check
requirement on solicitors is an unconstitutional prior restraint on free speech because
solicitors are not able to solicit until the background check is complete.
•A two-day time limit is added to determine whether a license application is complete.
This is to ensure prompt processing of applications.
•The City’s current ordinance contains a curfew prohibiting peddlers and solicitors from
conducting business before 9:00 a.m. and after 8:00 p.m. Federal courts have
invalidated similar curfew provisions as both content-based regulation of speech and
unreasonable time, place, and manner restrictions.
•All solicitors will be required to register with the City. Registration is completed using
the same form as required for license application, but no fee will be applied. Door to
door advocates would not be required to register because courts have found that even a
registration requirement is too much of a burden on their free speech rights.
Chapter 8. Businesses and licenses, Sections 8-115 (b) and (c) Mechanical Contractor Certificate
of Competency:
Proposed amendments to the mechanical contractor certificate of competency renewal
requirements to align program with other cities, by requiring renewal on an annual basis
instead of every three years and removing continuing education requirements. A competency
card is required by employees of a licensed mechanical contractor who will be performing
mechanical work like gas piping and furnace installations.
Study session meeting of June 14, 2021 (Item No. 9) Page 3
Title: Amendments to chapter 6 and chapter 8 of the City Code
Chapter 8. Businesses and licenses, Designated outdoor dog areas at Food and Beverage
Establishments:
Establishes a new licensing section Sections 8-465 through 8-467 for allowing Licensed Food
and Beverage Establishments to have a designated dog area in compliance with the MN Food
Code. Staff has learned that a city must specifically adopt code provisions for allowing. In the
absence, Hennepin County Environmental Health being the delegate restaurant inspection
authority by the MDH, may not allow pets in any foods serving area as it is prohibited in the MN
Food Code. Proposed code changes include:
• Definition aligning with Food code authorizes municipalities to adopt an ordinance to
permit food and beverage establishments to allow dogs to accompany persons
patronizing designated outdoor areas of food and beverage establishments.
• Only Licensed food and beverage service establishments can apply for a license for a
designated outdoor dog area to align with MN Statute 157.175.
• License required. Licensing designated outdoor dog areas allows city staff to review site
location for compliance with other city regulations for location of food/beverage service
and other licensing, Staff would also notify the County Health Inspectors of those
establishments creating dog areas.
Financial considerations: The following fee schedule is proposed with the ordinance.
Renewal – Mechanical Contractor certificate of competency: $15
Solicitor Registration: remove fee
Designated Outdoor Dog Area: $50
Next steps: Staff will complete drafting the necessary ordinances that will establish or modify
the programs. The first reading is planned for council consideration in late July or August.