HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021/06/21 - ADMIN - Minutes - City Council - Regular Official minutes
City council meeting
St. Louis Park, Minnesota
June 21, 2021
1. Call to order
Mayor Spano called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
1a. Pledge of allegiance
1b. Roll call
Councilmembers present: Mayor Jake Spano, Tim Brausen, Lynette Dumalag, Rachel Harris,
Larry Kraft, Nadia Mohamed, and Margaret Rog
Councilmembers absent: none
Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Harmening), City Attorney (Mr. Mattick), CFO (Ms. Schmitt),
Director of Community Development (Ms. Barton), Interim Deputy City Manager/Operations
and Recreation Director (Ms. Walsh), Communications Manager (Ms. Smith), Community
Organizer (Mr. Gray), Interim Administrative Services Officer (Ms. Solano)
Guests: Virginia Mancini, Chair HRC; Astein Osei, St. Louis Park School Superintendent,
and Jeannie Seeley-Smith, Perspectives; Lawrence Graham and Dan Morgan, Groves Academy
staff members
2. Presentations
2a. 2021 human rights award presentation
Ms. Mancini presented the 2021 human rights award to Perspectives, along with Mr.
Osei and Mr. Gray.
Ms. Seeley-Smith from Perspectives thanked the city and council for this honor. She
stated they have done this work for homeless women and their families for the past 20
years and have learned much from this community. She stated they are happy to work
on the new family center where they will add more services and housing for families and
children both in St. Louis Park and from other cities. She stated it means much to them
to receive and accept this award from the community, which supports them through
diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Councilmember Mohamed noted her involvement with Perspectives and STEP while
growing up and how much she loved every part of this. She stated she was so pleased to
be part of the council that is presenting this award to Perspectives, along with the HRC.
Councilmember Brausen thanked the HRC for awarding this to Perspectives, which
creates an environment for change, demonstrating success with consistent outcomes.
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Councilmember Harris thanked Perspectives for their work to promote social and
emotional well-being of children in St. Louis Park.
Councilmember Rog noted when she first moved to St. Louis Park she was involved in
Perspectives as a volunteer and as a place to connect with other families. She
remembered how projects were designed for children, but moms also stayed and
became a part of this.
Mayor Spano thanked them for all their work and noted how all appreci ate
Perspectives.
2b. MN Recreation and park association awards of excellence and Tommy Johnson
award
Ms. Sonya Rippy presented several awards to the St. Louis Park recreation staff.
Ms. Walsh thanked the MRPA for the awards and dedicated operations and recreation
staff who worked tirelessly through COVID to develop and provide programs virtually.
Councilmember Harris agreed with Ms. Walsh, stating we have tremendous staff, and
thanked them for their time and dedication.
Councilmember Kraft also congratulated staff on this award, noting the mobile art walk,
and how art is integrated into the city reflecting the city’s values.
Councilmember Rog agreed and noted there was ample opportunity to view this art in
the community, adding it has enriched the city.
Mayor Spano noted the award for the Westwood Hills interpretive center, and thanked
the MRPA for this recognition.
2c. Proclamation declaring Saturday, June 26, 2021, as Wat Promwachirayan day
Mayor Spano read the proclamation declaring June 26, 2021, as Wat Promwachirayan
day. He stated he is honored and thankful Wat Prom is in St. Louis Park, and an integral
part of the faith community within the city.
Monks and members of Wat Prom thanked the council for this honor and to be part of
the city these past 4 years, so they can share their faith and culture with the city. They
noted how much their support helps and stated on Saturday, June 26 , Wat Prom will
have food and cultural activities planned for the community and welcomed all to attend.
Councilmember Rog thanked the group and stated they are proud to have Wat Prom in
the neighborhood. She also thanked the group for continuing with the community
gardens on their property, for sharing their Thai culture, and activities presented in the
city.
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Councilmember Kraft added Wat Prom is a warm, friendly place and he thanked them,
adding he will attend the event on Saturday.
Councilmember Harris also thanked Wat Prom adding she will also be there on
Saturday.
Councilmember Mohamed thanked Wat Prom for adding a vibrant force to the
community and stated she loves their events.
Councilmember Dumalag stated she will be attending and thanked them for what they
do for the AAPI community also.
2d. Recognition of donations
Mayor Spano thanked doners for the following donations on behalf of the city:
$800 from Amy Priddy for access to run scholarships at Westwood Hills nature
center
$300 donation from Bill Kindler for park enhancements or program needs at
Westwood Hills nature center
$2,200 donation from Christine, Daniel, Ernes and Dick Zonneveld for the
purchase of a memorial bench at Lamplighter Park honoring Ida “Edie”
Zonneveld
$2,200 donation from Niza Schear for the purchase of a memorial bench
honoring Klaudia and Lejzoe Przetycki from the Luedtke family for the purchase
of a memorial bench at Oak Hill Park honoring Al Luedtke
$2,200 donation from family and friends of Jordyn Clark for the purchase of a
memorial bench at Louisiana Oaks Park honoring Jordyn Clark
$300 donation from Stuart and Theresa Stroller for the purchase of a tree
3. Approval of minutes
3a. City council meeting minutes of May 17, 2021
It was moved by Councilmember Rog, seconded by Councilmember Kraft, to approve the
May 17, 2021, city council meeting minutes as presented.
The motion passed 7-0.
3b. Special study session meeting minutes of May 17, 2021
It was moved by Councilmember Rog, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to approve
the May 17, 2021, special study session meeting minutes as presented.
The motion passed 7-0.
3c. Special study session meeting minutes of June 5, 2021
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It was moved by Councilmember Rog, seconded by Councilmember Dumalag, to approve
the June 5, 2021, special study session meeting minutes as presented.
The motion passed 7-0.
3d. Special study session meeting minutes of June 7, 2021
It was moved by Councilmember Rog, seconded by Councilmember Kraft, to approve the
June 7, 2021, special study session meeting minutes as presented.
The motion passed 7-0.
4. Approval of agenda and items on consent calendar
4a. Adopt Resolution No. 21-061 approving the third amendment to the preliminary
development agreement between the EDA, city, and Sherman Associates relative
to the Beltline Blvd Station Redevelopment Site.
4b. Motion to approve second reading and adopt an Ordinance No. 2615-21
amending Section 36-268-PUD 9 of the zoning code relating to previous
development approvals at 5950 36th St. W. and approve the Summary
Ordinance for publication. Motion to approve second reading and adopt an
Ordinance No. 2616-21 rezoning 5950 36th St. W. to MX-1 vertical mixed-use
and approve the Summary Ordinance for publication.
4c. Approve second reading and adopt Ordinance No. 2617-21 regarding speed
limits and approve the summary ordinance for publication.
4d. Adopt Resolution No. 21-062 approving acceptance of an $800 donation from
Amy Priddy for Access to Fun Scholarships at Westwood Hills Nature Center, a
$300 donation from Bill Kindler for park enhancements or program needs at
Westwood Hills Nature Center, a $2,200 donation from Christine, Daniel, Ernest
and Dick Zonneveld for the purchase of a memorial bench at Lamplighter Park
honoring Ida “Edie” Zonneveld, a $2,200 donation from Niza Schear for the
purchase of a memorial bench honoring Klaudia and Lejzor Przetycki, a $2,200
donation from the Luedtke family for the purchase of a memorial bench at Oak
Hill Park honoring Al Luedtke, a $2,200 donation from the family and friends of
Jordyn Clark for the purchase of a memorial bench at Louisiana Oaks Park
honoring Jordyn Clark and a $300 donation from Stuart and Theresa Stroller for
the purchase of a tree.
4e. Moved to 8f.
4f. Approve Amendment No. 3 to City Agreement No. 126-14, between the city and
New Cingular Wireless PCS, LLC for communication antennas and related
equipment on the city’s water tower at 2541 Nevada Avenue (site MNL01020).
4g. Adopt Resolution No. 21-063 authorizing the city’s participation in local performance
measurement program.
4h. Adopt Resolution No. 21-064 authorizing the distribution of an environmental
assessment worksheet (EAW) for public review and comments.
4i. Approve for filing fire civil service commission minutes of Februar y 9, 2021.
4j. Approve for filing planning commission minutes of May 19, 2021.
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Councilmember Brausen requested that consent calendar item 4e be removed and
placed on the regular agenda to 8f.
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Dumalag, to
approve the agenda and items listed on the consent calendar as amended and to move
consent calendar item 4e to the regular agenda as item 8f; and to waive reading of all
resolutions and ordinances.
The motion passed 7-0.
5. Boards and commissions
It was moved by Councilmember Mohamed, seconded by Councilmember Dumalag, to
appoint Thomas Scott to the Human Rights Commission for the term ending May 31,
2022.
The motion passed 7-0.
6. Public hearings
6a. Resolution consenting to and providing host approval for Groves Academy
revenue bonds. Resolution No. 21-065
Ms. Schmitt presented the staff report.
Mr. Morgan, Groves Academy president, noted Groves Academy has been in St. Louis
Park for 50 years and is hoping to increase their work with neuro diverse children, to
create a world-leading facility.
Mayor Spano opened the public hearing. No speakers were present. Mayor Spano
closed the public hearing.
Councilmember Rog asked when the work will be done. Mr. Morgan stated they will
begin work next spring, into summer of 2022. He noted the initial phase will be interior,
and then exterior as well.
Councilmember Brausen stated his son attended Groves for pre -school and
kindergarten and went on to do very well, thanks to their support in his early years.
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Mohamed to
adopt Resolution No. 21-065 consenting to and providing host approval to the issuance
by the City of Mayer of its revenue obligations.
The motion passed 7-0.
6b. Slope easement vacation at 3440 Beltline Blvd.
Ms. Monson presented the staff report.
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Mayor Spano opened the public hearing. No speakers were present. Mayor Spano
closed the public hearing.
Councilmember Harris asked if this is a housekeeping item and if by vacating, it then
becomes developable land. Ms. Monson stated yes, adding this proposal will be
presented later in the agenda and no motion is needed at this time.
7. Requests, petitions, and communications from the public – none
8. Resolutions, ordinances, motions, and discussion items
8a. Annual Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program report
Mr. Francis presented the staff report, which was a summary of activities undertaken by
the city in 2020 to meet the city’s Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit
and Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP) requirements.
Councilmember Brausen stated he is glad to see enforcement of the illicit discharge
connection and is happy about the pollution prevention activities. He stated he
appreciates this program.
Councilmember Harris stated she noticed the work being done is addressing incidents as
they occur and education, inspection, and prevention. She added there have been more
rain events in the city and flash flooding. She asked about using GPS mapping to show
where flooding happens and asked how this could be created. Mr. Francis stated there is
a model for this, and the city is involved in the community rain system which does
mapping, historical flooding, and helps promote community education.
Councilmember Harris noted the valleys in the community do tend to flood and pointed
out the Minnetonka Avenue and Rhode Island intersection, along with Dakota Avenue.
She asked if the city could reach out to residents in those areas to inform them of this.
Councilmember Rog asked what feedback will be looked for at the nature center
meeting. Mr. Francis stated staff is open to anything residents are interested in asking
about. Councilmember Rog urged staff to communicate this information broadly and
clearly to residents in terms of what feedback is being looked for.
Councilmember Rog asked if there will be online participation opportunities for the
metro blooms event. Mr. Francis stated yes, this will continue as it is easy and
convenient for residents.
Councilmember Rog noted there was a big rain event the night prior and asked if there
were any issues with that. Mr. Francis stated no problems, especially since there
currently is a drought.
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Councilmember Rog asked what the city is doing proactively related to climate change
and more flooding issues. Mr. Francis stated they highlight the city’s stormwater models
and accommodate capacity as necessary, plus work with the local watershed.
Councilmember Kraft asked how illicit discharges are detected and are they going up or
down. Mr. Francis stated staff is keeping a lookout for this, and if there is anything
spotted, they can contact city staff. He added there is also a place to do this on the city
app, adding it is an educational effort and there are a lot of residents watching as well.
Councilmember Kraft asked what is most concerning on this project. Mr. Francis stated
all of it is concerning, including stormwater management, making sure we are doing
appropriate public outreach and education, while also meeting requirements.
Councilmember Dumalag asked where the illicit issues are coming from. Mr. Francis
stated most are accidental, but can come from construction sites, and commercial
businesses. He stated they work on doing inspections related to this.
Councilmember Dumalag asked how residents can report a problem with illicit
discharge. Mr. Francis noted they can call the city, or report on the city app, adding staff
does a lot of outreach and it is an ongoing effort.
The public hearing for this item will be August 12, 2021. No action is required at this
time.
Nancy Rose, 3402 Huntington Ave. S. stated she has concerns about public input related
to public waters. She noted the state legislature requires this each calendar year. She is
concerned there is no public input on this issue to evaluate program complianc e, and an
assessment of the prior year. She wondered if there was a way to address this by June
30 to be in compliance with state law, because there was no legal notice of this to the
public in 2020. She stated in August of 2021, the public will learn about the program of
2020. Mr. Francis stated the annual report of the city is due to the state on June 30 for
2020. He added it is correct there needs to be one meeting per year, provided
appropriate local public notice requirements are followed, and these notices were
published on December 4th for the December 10th meeting in the Sun Sailor newspaper,
along with social media, city website and calendar, along with neighborhood leaders .
Mayor Spano stated the December 2020 meeting did address this issue, it was included
in the meeting, and although the city is not required to do a legal notice to the public, a
public notice was communicated.
Mr. Mattick stated he will need to check into what is required for this topic, and then
move forward.
Mayor Spano stated he will ask Mr. Harmening and Mr. Mattick to research this and
report back to the council on what needs to occur to ensure compliance.
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8b. Development proposal for 3440 Beltline Blvd. Resolution No. 21-066
Ms. Monson presented the report.
Barb Tomlinson, Browndale neighborhood, stated she is interested in affordable housing
and storm water treatment. She added she is pleased with the affordability of this
project and asked how many 3-bedroom units will be included as the city is in desperate
need of affordable family housing. She is also happy to hear there is a stormwater
treatment system under the structure and hopes to have some educational signage to
increase pollinator habitats in that area. Ms. Monson stated the affordable units are
spread evenly through the building, along with one affordable 3-bedroom unit.
Councilmember Dumalag asked about the retail space that is separated and what type
of tenants will be in the project. Mr. Murnane with Opus stated they are working to
identify the two retail spaces, including a restaurant and some smaller shops on the
south side. He stated they will look at what the market dictates.
Councilmember Dumalag stated she is pleased to see the trees and the dog run
included. Mr. Murnane explained that keeping the green space worked well with the
site design and they will want to leave as many trees in that area as possible. He added
the dog run is still being worked on, adding that many renters have dogs these days, so
this was something that lends itself well to the project.
Councilmember Dumalag asked if the amenity space is above the retail. Mr. Murnane
stated this space is a two-level space, the live-work units are at grade, and pointed out
the courtyard access area as well.
Councilmember Dumalag asked about the egress for parking. Mr. Murnane stated all
access along 35th Street and the alley, and to the north will be the commercial parking.
He noted there are 3 levels of parking.
Councilmember Dumalag asked if the art included is to shield the parking area. Mr.
Murnane stated yes, this public art will shield the garage and give a nice façade.
Councilmember Dumalag asked for a timeline on the project. Mr. Murnane stated 4th
quarter for groundbreaking and then 2 years of construction.
Councilmember Dumalag asked about the affordability with 10% at 50% AMI and what
is the income level. Ms. Monson stated the income level for a family of 4 is $51,700. Mr.
Murnane added they are working with the city on the TIF process and adding another 3-
bedroom affordable unit.
Councilmember Dumalag asked what the anticipated rent would be for the affordable 3-
bedroom. Mr. Murnane stated it would be about $1,400/month.
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Councilmember Dumalag asked who is doing management. Mr. Murnane stated they do
not do their own management and are working with Greco for management, adding
they manage the lease as well.
Councilmember Dumalag asked about Opus and their diversity goals. Mr. M urnane
stated this is very important for Opus and they work with all their subcontractors and
look for as many opportunities as possible.
Mr. Newins stated one of Opus’ core values is stewardship, adding they look for ways to
work with local contractors to fill that gap with minority owners. He stated they work on
being thoughtful by working with consultants regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion.
They make donations and jurisdictions where the project is located, similarly to
organizations like Perspectives.
Councilmember Rog asked if this project is approved, will dogs be allowed in all units
and will the dog run be private. Mr. Murnane stated yes to both questions.
Councilmember Rog noted that only one affordable 3-bedroom unit is promised in this
development, although the developer says they will try for more, which she
encouraged. She noted that under the updated inclusionary housing policy a project of
this size would now require seven affordable 3-bedroom units. She asked staff for
clarification on when in the approvals process inclusionary housing policy requirements
become applicable. Ms. Monson stated they begin at the time of the application.
Councilmember Rog encouraged the developers to add more 3 -bedroom units, stating
they are needed.
Councilmember Harris asked about the amenity space and if any is going to be public.
Mr. Murnane stated the green space around the dog run would be public. Mr. Newins
added the space around the retail space will also be a public patio.
Councilmember Harris thanked the developers for this. She asked about the live-work
spaces and how they were developed. Mr. Newins stated it is really the idea of engaging
the streetscape and creating more energy besides just a retail space.
Councilmember Harris asked staff, given these will be residential and commercial, how
this is navigated within the zoning code. Ms. Monson stated live-work is defined in the
zoning code and regulated by the PUD ordinance for this site. Commercial uses are
allowed depending on how the building is developed, and the ordinance is written
specifically to allow live-work units.
Councilmember Harris asked how parking spaces are counted for live-work. Ms. Monson
stated there is one parking space for each live-work unit, but because transit is coming,
the PUD code will provide flexibility for different uses as times change.
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Councilmember Harris asked what kind of demand the developers are seeing for live-
work spaces. Mr. Murnane stated they are seeing strong demand in general. He added
one of the live-work units is also affordable.
Councilmember Mohamed agreed with Councilmember Rog on her comments related
to affordable housing, as well as Councilmember Dumalag’s comments on diversity. She
stated she would love to see more 3-bedroom affordable units at 50% AMI and at 30%
AMI as well.
Councilmember Kraft asked about the stormwater treatment system and if this would
improve the issue with Bass Lake Preserve. Ms. Monson stated yes, noting the
stormwater requirements are much more substantial today than when the existing
building was constructed. The proposed treatment and rate control will help to improve
the conditions at Bass Lake Preserve.
Councilmember Kraft asked about the 100-year flood-plain requirements that were
updated recently. Ms. Monson stated the ones in use today were adopted in 2016 and
even with the new Atlas-14 modeling, the building would still be 2.5 feet above the base
flood elevation, which the DNR requires a minimum of 1 foot.
Councilmember Kraft asked about Opus’ overall commitment on green buildings. Mr.
Newins stated sustainability is very important to Opus adding they are all striving for
more and more. He noted it is about the process of developing a building in a thoughtful
way with low impact on the environment, looking at how little energy can be used , and
how much water can be saved.
Councilmember Kraft encouraged as many level-2 EV stations as possible. He asked
about traffic at the project, noting Park Glen and Beltline seems to be most problematic,
and asked if a traffic light will be added there. Ms. Monson stated a traffic study was
conducted for the site and the left turning movements is less than ideal. She added the
city has always anticipated a light at Park Glen when the Hennepin County site at 4600
Beltline is redeveloped. She stated a traffic light will likely need to be added prior to the
redevelopment of the county’s site so staff will be looking into this, but is not
recommending Opus contribute to the installation.
Councilmember Brausen noted staff and the city are well-aware of the traffic concerns
and staff has been doing the best they can to manage this area.
Mayor Spano stated he is supportive of the project and added it is appropriate for the
developer to be asked to partner with the city on some of these costs for the light,
especially with the traffic in this area. He encouraged staff to look into this opportunity.
Mayor Spano thanked the developers for the art screening concept , adding he would
like to see more developers do this as well.
It was moved by Councilmember Mohamed, seconded by Councilmember Rog, to
approve first reading of ordinance vacating the slope easement along the west side of
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Beltline Blvd. between Park Glen Road and 35th Street West and set the Second Reading
of the Ordinance for July 6, 2021; adopt Resolution No. 21-066 approving the
preliminary and final plat for Industrial Park 4th Addition; approve first reading of
ordinance adding section 36-268-PUD 20 to the zoning code and amending the zoning
map from MX-1 vertical mixed-use to PUD 20; and, set the second reading for July 6,
2021.
The motion passed 7-0.
8c. Parkway Residences planned unit development major amendment
Ms. Monson presented the staff report.
Councilmember Rog stated she attended a public meeting on this and asked for
clarification on the moving of units and adding of parking. Ms. Monson stated the
request is to add parking to alleviate congestion on 31st Street.
Councilmember Rog asked if there is an additional fee added to rent for parking spaces.
Mr. Berg, the architect, stated yes.
Councilmember Harris asked for some pros and cons on the amenity deck being moved
from the roof to the ground floor. Mr. Berg stated there will still be an amenity deck on
the 4th floor and available to all residents.
Councilmember Harris asked if this change was related to solar panels. Mr. Berg stated
that is correct.
Councilmember Harris asked how much energy will be offset. Mr. Berg stated this wil l
open it up for future solar going forward, but he did not have an exact kilowatt number.
Councilmember Harris asked how many level 2 EV stations will be at the development.
Ms. Monson stated there will be no level 2, but there will be one level 1 EV station,
along with conduit included for future addition of level 2 stations. Mr. Berg added Paz
Sela, the building’s owner, is a huge believer in future electric charging, adding he plans
to have five level 2 chargers ready to go when the development is completed.
Councilmember Harris asked about bicycle parking and where it is located. Mr. Berg
stated in the garage and outside as well.
Councilmember Dumalag asked for clarification on Phases 1 and 2. Mr. Berg pointed out
the various phases on the map including the affordable and NOAH properties that have
already been constructed and rehabilitated.
It was moved by Councilmember Rog, seconded by Councilmember Dumalag to approve
first reading of ordinance amending section 36-268-PUD 15 of the zoning code relating
to previous development approvals for Parkway Residences phase III and to set the
second reading for July 6, 2021.
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The motion passed 7-0.
8d. Rise on 7 redevelopment project. Resolution No. 21-067, Resolution No. 21-068
Ms. Kramer presented the staff report.
Councilmember Harris thanked the development team for meeting with the
neighborhood and councilmembers. She expressed her thanks to Commonbond and
their work and mission.
Mr. Michaels-Allen, Commonbond, stated Commonbond offers wraparound services
including homework help, navigation of benefits, financial planning, and education
planning.
Councilmember Harris asked for the reasoning behind shifting from RC high density to a
PUD site. Ms. Kramer stated there would need to be approximately 6 variances for
parking, floor area ratio, ground floor area ratio, and various setbacks, so it made more
sense to pursue a PUD rezoning.
Councilmember Dumalag asked about the daycare which is 6,600 sq. ft. and the
landscaping requirements. Ms. Kramer stated for urban projects the zoning code
provides for alternative landscaping features to meet the intent of the code, and this
project includes a bio-swale as well as saving many of the trees already on the site’s
west side. She added the tree count depends on the number of dwelling units, and that
is where the majority of the tree count requirement comes from, not from the daycare.
Councilmember Dumalag asked about the play areas of the daycare, per the regulatory
requirement of a dedicated fenced in area required by the state. Mr. Michaels-Allen
stated yes, the play areas are completely fenced in.
Councilmember Dumalag asked about the mix of affordability from 30% to 80% and if
that is typical for Commonbond developments. Mr. Michaels-Allen stated that depends
on the project and the financing sources. He stated they are doing affordable through
the whole project and will need an average of 50% because they are applying for
bonding.
Councilmember Dumalag asked if Commonbond owns the site. Mr. Michaels-Allen
stated yes, they purchased the site in February 2021.
Councilmember Dumalag asked about the timeline of the project. Mr. Michaels-Allen
stated they would start in October 2021 and be completed in February or March of
2023.
Councilmember Dumalag asked what the obligation lease is for the daycare. Mr.
Michaels-Allen stated it is currently a 10-year lease, but they are waiting on funding and
city council approval before starting negotiations.
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Councilmember Dumalag asked if the daycare is affordable. Mr. Michael-Allen stated
yes, and it will be offered to residents first. He added Commonbond will be managing
the development and will also include wraparound services with a full-time employee.
He confirmed that all services are done in-house.
Councilmember Dumalag asked about the diversity and equity focus of Commonbond
and any targeted focus. Ms. Lawn stated her position was added at Commonbond to
address their anti-racist equity programs and goals. She stated affordable housing is for
families who need housing in the communities they want to live in, and not only families
of color. She added they work for families to have a voice at the table, as well as doing
staff training for working with residents. Ms. Lawn stated this is all a work in progress, as
well as looking at best practices on addressing racial and equitable goals.
Councilmember Harris stated she is receiving an education on company cultures this
evening. She stated Commonbond is advanced in their approach of racial equity, and
thanked Ms. Lawn for her comments.
Councilmember Rog explained in 2018 a young man was killed crossing Highway 7,
walking to Knollwood Mall, noting there have been some measures implemented to
deter folks from crossing there, but it will still be tempting. She asked about this issue.
Ms. Kramer stated some improvements have been made along Texas Avenue, but there
are not any additional improvements planned for the near future.
Ms. Lawn stated they do talk to their residents about safety measures, and because
there are volunteers and programs on-site, there will be additional partners involved in
working with residents on safety measures.
Councilmember Rog asked about the stained-glass windows and if they will be
preserved. Mr. Michaels-Allen stated the agreement with the congregation is that they
will give them 90 days’ notice to remove the stained glass before demolition. He stated
if the seller does not want to do this, they are looking into other measures for
preserving them.
Councilmember Kraft stated he is supportive of this. He asked if the changes made were
to address changes on landscaping and shadowing from neighbors there. Ms. Kramer
stated the main change was the increased setback of 25 feet which allowed for less
shadowing and more landscaping.
Councilmember Kraft noted increased traffic on the frontage road and asked if that is a
concern. Ms. Kramer stated staff looked at this and did an initial analysis, but it did not
meet the threshold for a full traffic study. She stated the only traffic impacted is
eastbound going north, adding these are MSA roads that can accommodate increased
traffic.
Councilmember Kraft noted the solar array on the roofs, adding he is happy to see this
in conjunction with affordable housing. He asked if the solar array is as large as it could
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be. Mr. DuPuis from Kaas Wilson Architects stated the size was determined by
experience on past projects and the 20 KW was settled on. Councilmember Kraft noted,
if possible, he would like to see this at a bit higher level.
Councilmember Kraft asked if items will be deconstructed and recycled when the
building is demolished. Mr. DuPuis stated this is part of their green building policy
requirements and will be explored and documented.
Councilmember Brausen stated he is concerned about noise from Highway 7
northbound traffic. He asked if soundproofing will be considered. Mr. DuPuis stated yes
this will be investigated.
Mayor Spano noted to staff he continues to see people crossing Highway 7 unsafely. He
stated the city needs to have a conversation with MnDOT about making improvements
in their roadway.
Councilmember Brausen stated he is on the board of a Commonbond project for his
church, serving in a volunteer capacity, and is familiar with their work. He noted this is a
wonderful intersection of faith partners in the community to create more affordable
housing, Commonbond is going to be a tremendous asset to the community, and he will
support the project.
It was moved by Councilmember Dumalag, seconded by Councilmember Mohamed, to
adopt Resolution No. 21-067 approving the amendment to the 2040 Comprehensive
Plan future land use plan map, as well as related figures, tables, and text; adopt
Resolution No. 21-068 approving the preliminary and final plat for Rise on 7 Addition;
approve first reading of an ordinance adding section 36-268-PUD 19 to the zoning code
and amending the zoning map from RC high-density multi-family residential to PUD 19;
and, set the second reading for July 6, 2021, subject to the conditions recommended by
staff to be included in the planning development contract.
The motion passed 7-0.
8e. First reading of ordinance pertaining to animal handling uses
Mr. Morrison presented the staff report.
Councilmember Harris stated the proximity of the location is across an alley from a
resident. Mr. Morrison stated it is in the Texatonka mall across from a service drive.
Councilmember Harris asked what the consideration is for nuisance. Mr. Morrison
stated the barking was noted as a possible nuisance for uses like doggie daycares,
however, for uses such as grooming while there are dogs, there are usually not many all
at one time.
Councilmember Harris asked about possible mitigations in the future. Mr. Morrison
stated mitigations would fall on the tenant to install acoustics measures. He noted there
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City council -15- June 21, 2021
are no windows in the back of the building, and most noise will be in the front of the
building.
Mr. Kohler with Paster Properties stated this will be veterinary clinics as well as dog
groomers and will be quieter uses versus a doggie daycare.
It was moved by Councilmember Rog, seconded by Councilmember Mohamed, to
approve the first reading of an ordinance amending chapter 36 pertaining to the animal
handling uses and set second reading for July 6, 2021.
The motion passed 7-0.
8f. Accept work and authorize final payment in the amount of $6,637.44 for
project no. 4020-1101, which is the Monterey-Beltline-36th phase 1
improvement project with Thomas and Sons Construction, Inc., contract no. 61-
20. Resolution No. 21-069
Councilmember Brausen stated he wanted to bring this forward to point out the work
was done at the intersection of Monterey and Park Center Drive, which has been less
functional and now finally reworked to be better for all. He also stated the cost came in
at 5% under the estimate, which is a great testament to staff and Thomas and Sons,
Construction. He stated it is important to note when staff is accurate with estimates and
diligent to get things done and he appreciates this.
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Rog, to adopt
Resolution No. 21-069 accepting work and authorizing final payment in the amount of
$6,637.44 for project no. 4020-1101, which is the Monterey-Beltline-36th phase 1
improvement project with Thomas and Sons Construction, Inc. contract no. 61-20.
The motion passed 7-0.
9. Communications
Mayor Spano honored Ms. Solano for her work at the city and wished her well on behalf
of the city and council, as this is her last meeting, and she is moving to another position
in a different city.
The councilmembers each commented on how they will miss Ms. Solano and her work
for the city, while wishing her all the best in her new position at the city of Plymouth.
Mr. Harmening stated he is very proud of Ms. Solano, noting there is a need for more
women and women of color in this field. He knows her ambition is to be a city manager
some day and her new position is one she could not pass up. He praised her work, her
attitude, and wished her the best of luck.
Ms. Solano stated it has been an honor and a joy to work at the city and with the council
and she thanked them.
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Councilmember Brausen stated the council all participated in the Parktacular activities
last week and thanked the committee for their work on this.
10. Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 10:12 p.m.
______________________________________ ______________________________________
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Jake Spano, mayor
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