HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021/10/18 - ADMIN - Minutes - City Council - Regular Official minutes
City council meeting
St. Louis Park, Minnesota
Oct. 18, 2021
1. Call to order
Mayor Spano called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
1a. Pledge of allegiance
1b. Roll call
Councilmembers present: Mayor Jake Spano, Tim Brausen, Lynette Dumalag, Rachel Harris,
Larry Kraft, and Margaret Rog
Councilmember absent: Nadia Mohamed
Staff present: City Manager (Ms. Keller), City Attorney (Mr. Mattick), CFO (Ms. Schmitt),
Director of Community Development (Ms. Barton), Communications Manager (Ms. Smith)
Guests:
2. Presentations
2a. Recognition of donations
Mayor Spano noted donations for the fire department open house and community
health resource fair from Cub Foods, Nordic Ware, Liberty Packaging , and thanked them
for their donations.
3. Approval of minutes
3a. City council meeting of Sept. 20, 2021
Councilmember Kraft noted on page 6, it should read “…7.8%”; on page 7 it should read
“…levy”; and on page 11, it should read “…crash threshold for removing stop signs as it
should not be the same for when a stop sign is added.”
Councilmember Rog noted on page 6, it should read, “…added the county levy was a 0%
increase this year and it’s a 3.5% this year. “
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Dumalag, to
approve the Sept. 20, 2021, council meeting minutes as amended.
The motion passed 6-0 (Councilmember Mohamed absent).
3b. City council meeting of Oct. 4, 2021
DocuSign Envelope ID: 32FC26F7-F4EF-4523-ACF4-69206F44BE4A
City Council Meeting -2- October 18, 2021
Councilmember Rog noted on page 7, should read, “…continuity of city services to
residents.”
It was moved by Councilmember Dumalag, seconded by Councilmember Rog, to approve
the Oct. 4, 2021, council meeting minutes as amended.
The motion passed 6-0 (Councilmember Mohamed absent).
3c. City council workshop of Oct. 4, 2021
It was moved by Councilmember Rog, seconded by Councilmember Kraft, to approve the
Oct. 4, 2021, workshop minutes as presented.
The motion passed 6-0 (Councilmember Mohamed absent).
It was noted that because Councilmember Harris is attending the meeting remotely, a
roll call vote is needed.
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Dumalag, to
approve the previous three sets of meeting minutes as amended and presented.
The motion passed by roll call vote 6-0 (Councilmember Mohamed absent).
4. Approval of agenda and items on consent calendar
4a. Adopt Resolution No. 21-119 establishing the employer contribution for benefits in
2022.
4b. Authorize mayor and city manager to execute local trail connection agreement w/
Three Rivers Park District. (Moved to regular agenda item 8d)
4c. Adopt resolution approving fund closure, creation, and budget amendment.
(Moved to regular agenda item 8e)
4d. Adopt Resolution No. 21-120 accepting donations for the fire department open
house and community health resource fair.
4e. Approve submission of a permit with Three Rivers Park District to clear and
remove snow from the LRT and Cedar Lake Extension Trails through the City of
St. Louis Park for the 2021-2023 winter seasons.
4f. Adopt Resolution No. 21-121 authorizing parking restrictions on Flag Avenue.
4g. Approve a subordinate funding agreement (Agreement) between the city and
Metropolitan Council for monitoring wells.
4h. Adopt Resolution No. 21-122 authorizing the special assessment for the repair of
the water service line at 8806 Minnetonka Boulevard, St. Louis Park, MN. P.I.D.
18-117-21-21-0019.
4i. Approve for filing planning commission minutes of Aug. 18, 2021
4j. Approve for filing planning commission minutes of Sept. 1, 2021
4k. Approve for filing planning commission minutes of Sept. 22, 2021
DocuSign Envelope ID: 32FC26F7-F4EF-4523-ACF4-69206F44BE4A
City Council Meeting -3- October 18, 2021
Councilmembers Rog and Kraft requested that consent calendar items 4b and 4c be
removed and placed on the Regular Agenda to 8d and 8e.
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Dumalag, to
approve the agenda and items listed on the consent calendar as amended to move
consent calendar item 4b and 4c to the regular agenda as item 8d and 8e; and to waive
reading of all resolutions and ordinances.
The motion passed by roll call vote 6-0 (Councilmember Mohamed absent).
5. Boards and commissions
5a. Appoint youth representatives to boards and commissions
Councilmember Kraft noted he would like to meet with those interested in serving on
boards and commissions.
It was moved by Councilmember Rog, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to appoint
youth representatives to the boards and commissions as listed in exhibit A.
The motion passed by roll call vote 6-0 (Councilmember Mohamed absent).
5b. Appointment to Planning Commission
Councilmember Brausen noted Mr. Salzer was an alternate and he is happy he is willing
to serve.
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Dumalag, to
appoint Michael Salzer to the Planning Commission for the term ending May 31, 2023.
The motion passed by roll call vote 6-0 (Councilmember Mohamed absent).
6. Public hearings
6a. Assessment of delinquent charges
Ms. Schmitt presented the staff report.
Mayor Spano opened the public hearing. No speakers were present. Mayor Spano
closed the public hearing.
Councilmember Rog asked if there is relief for residents around storm water and
mowing and for those that cannot afford fees or fines. Ms. Schmitt stated this could be
put on property taxes and spread out for 12 months. Sh e added utility assistance is
available through Hennepin County.
DocuSign Envelope ID: 32FC26F7-F4EF-4523-ACF4-69206F44BE4A
City Council Meeting -4- October 18, 2021
Councilmember Rog asked if a resident demonstrates income challenges are fees
waived. Ms. Schmitt stated fees were waived during the pandemic. She added when the
emergency powers ended the city followed what the state was doing related to
reinstating the charging of fees.
No further action as approval of resolution will take place at the Nov. 15, 2021, city
council meeting.
6b. Public hearing for 9920 and 9808 Wayzata Blvd. vacation ordinances
Ms. Kramer presented the report.
Mayor Spano opened the public hearing. No speakers were present. Mayor Spano
closed the public hearing.
Action on this item took place under agenda item 8b.
7. Requests, petitions, and communications from the public – none
8. Resolutions, ordinances, motions and discussion items
8a. Amend city code regarding setting of fees
Ms. Schmitt presented the staff report.
Councilmember Rog stated she is pleased this information will be more readily available
on the website, and she thanked staff.
Councilmember Harris thanked staff for this improvement and enhancement.
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Dumalag, to
update city code to reflect that utility fees and liquor license fees are adopted by
ordinance, rather than set by resolution.
The motion passed by roll call vote 6-0 (Councilmember Mohamed absent).
8b. Proposed redevelopment of 9808 and 9920 Wayzata Blvd. Resolution No. 21-
123, Resolution No. 21-124
Ms. Kramer presented the staff report.
Councilmember Brausen stated this site has been empty for 15 years and he is very
happy with this proposal. He stated it is ideal for the proposed density, will create 233
new housing units, and include 46 new affordable housing units as well as green
features, adding he will support this project .
DocuSign Envelope ID: 32FC26F7-F4EF-4523-ACF4-69206F44BE4A
City Council Meeting -5- October 18, 2021
Councilmember Dumalag asked the developer to discuss who they are and their history,
noting she has had inquiries from residents.
Mr. Hedberg and Mr. Neuman from Bigos Development explained they already own
property in the area and their headquarters are in Golden Valley. They have owned and
managed property in both Minneapolis and St. Paul for many years.
Councilmember Dumalag asked about their financing. Mr. Hedberg stated they will be
financing with TIF.
Councilmember Dumalag asked about racial equity programs within Bigos and target
hires. Mr. Hedberg stated they have discussed this with contractors as it relates to this
project. He stated subcontractors will seek out women and minority owned businesses
and look to do more of this.
Councilmember Dumalag asked if Bigos has ever had any targeted diverse hiring
practices in the past. Mr. Hedberg stated they have not and noted the last project they
built was 4 years ago, as they typically purchase properties.
Councilmember Dumalag asked if they have third party management or in-house
management. Mr. Hedberg stated in-house, adding they manage everything they own at
Bigos.
Councilmember Rog stated she has concerns about a property management company
whose actions have displaced hundreds in St. Louis Park, including rent increases at
Meadowbrook and lease terminations, as well as termination of Section 8 at Lou Park
Apartments. She stated this does not represent the attitude toward low-income renters
and asked what they can say to this.
Mr. Hedberg stated the ERA apartments are still affordable and at the Lou Park
Apartments, they transferred the Section 8 housing with enhanced vouchers to
Common Bond.
Councilmember Rog stated she understood these measures, but added she felt
management was not very communicative or collaborative with residents when this all
happened, when the transfer of ownership happened. She asked why council should
support this developer and the project given these issues noted.
Mr. Hedberg stated Bigos maintains their properties exceptionally well. He added ERA is
a great, safe, and affordable place to live. He added no one was displaced at Lou Park
and no one left to go to Common Bond. He stated they worked with the city on this.
Councilmember Kraft asked what Bigos’ commitment is for affordable housing and how
it fits into their strategy. Mr. Hedberg noted they recently got a permit to build a Section
8 building in St. Paul.
DocuSign Envelope ID: 32FC26F7-F4EF-4523-ACF4-69206F44BE4A
City Council Meeting -6- October 18, 2021
Councilmember Kraft asked about their strategy and commitment to sustainability. Mr.
Hedberg stated they are happy to have solar panels on the roof top on this building, and
hope to do more on other buildings, adding there is also a significant amoun t of green
space and efficiency. Mr. Neuman added they have signed up for the Xcel Energy
programs as well.
Councilmember Harris asked if the contractors or sub-contractors will hire people as
employees for this project or as independent contractors. Mr. Hedberg stated they have
not identified the contractor yet, and how they hire out their subs.
Councilmember Harris asked about plans for quality of life in the building with the on -
site property manager. Mr. Hedberg stated they are excited about the outside pool,
pickle ball court, theater, and a live-work area within the development.
Councilmember Harris asked if the units will have electric or gas appliances. Mr.
Hedberg stated they will be all high efficiency electric appliances. Councilmember Harris
encouraged them to hire employees versus sub-contractors so they can have benefits
and security.
Councilmember Dumalag asked what contractors they have used in the past. Mr.
Hedberg stated Stonebridge, Norsan, and added they own six Section 8 properties
within their portfolio as well.
Councilmember Rog asked what Bigos will do with the affordable units after 25 years .
Mr. Hedberg stated they have not had that conversation.
Councilmember Kraft asked why this is a housing TIF district. Ms. Kramer stated the past
project was a re-development TIF district which has since expired. The new project
cannot be the same, so it was determined it would be a housing TIF district.
Councilmember Kraft asked if the housing TIF district has high er affordability. Ms.
Kramer stated yes adding it requires 20% of the units at 50% AMI .
Councilmember Kraft asked how many buildings they own are Section 8. Mr. Hedberg
stated they own six that are fully affordable. Councilmember Kraft asked why they
moved away from project-based vouchers with the Lou Park Apartments. Mr. Hedberg
stated project-based vouchers require a different property manager than the market
rate units, so it was challenging to manage. He added when moving to the housing
choice vouchers, the HUD requirements went away, and it became easier to manage. He
added the Lou Park project expanded affordability.
Councilmember Kraft asked what they do to ensure the general contractor does things
the right way. Mr. Hedberg stated they work closely with their general contractors and
select the best.
Mayor Spano stated there has not always been a good relationship between St. Louis
Park and Bigos, adding the Lou Park project was not managed well. He added the council
DocuSign Envelope ID: 32FC26F7-F4EF-4523-ACF4-69206F44BE4A
City Council Meeting -7- October 18, 2021
has concerns about entering a relationship with them, while also noting this is a
different project. He stated Bigos needs to know he does not have a lot of patience for
problems or excuses coming out of the project, and he will keep a close eye on it. He
stated he sees this as an opportunity to move forward for the benefit of residents.
Councilmember Rog asked if they will be required to accept Section 8 vouchers for the
affordable units. Ms. Barton stated yes this is part of the city’s inclusionary housing
policy and Bigos will be required to do so. Mr. Hedberg stated having a project-based
Section 8 is very different from the Section 8 voucher, so this will be easier to handle .
Councilmember Rog stated this is a project many want for the empty lot. She stated she
is not happy that more than half of the units are studio or 1 bedroom, adding the real
need is for affordable family units. She did note this is a development appropriate for
the area and similar to other high density nearby, and they are required to accept
Section 8 vouchers.
Councilmember Rog stated she will not support the future TIF request and added that in
her view this project does not support the long-range vision and broad goals of the
community as to what kind of community they want to be and what makes strong
neighborhoods. She stated while there are both positives and negatives to the project,
the positives do outweigh. She added she will be watching the developer’s hiring
practices.
Councilmember Kraft stated he agrees with Councilmember Rog adding he will take a
harder look at the TIF request and make sure this is meeting the Comprehensive Plan
goals. He added if the developers come before council again, he will ask them to be
more prepared to explain their sustainability and affordability strategies and plans.
Councilmember Dumalag stated she will support this adding real estate is a relationship
business, so when they do come back for a TIF request, please know you do not leave
residents behind.
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Harris, to adopt
Resolution No. 21-123 approving the amendment to the 2040 Comprehensive Plan
Future Land Use Plan Map, as well as related figures, tables and text and Resolution No.
21-124 approving the preliminary and final plat of Bereks Addition; and to approve first
reading of ordinance amending Section 36-268-11 and set the second reading for Nov.
1, 2021; first reading of ordinance vacating drainage and utility easement and set the
second reading for Nov. 1, 2021; and, first reading of ordinance amending right-of-way
vacation ordinance and set the second reading for Nov. 1, 2021 .
The motion passed by roll call vote 6-0 (Councilmember Mohamed absent).
8c. Traffic Study 750 – authorize truck parking restrictions on Oxford Street.
Resolution No. 21-125, Resolution No. 21-126
Mr. Sullivan presented the staff report.
DocuSign Envelope ID: 32FC26F7-F4EF-4523-ACF4-69206F44BE4A
City Council Meeting -8- October 18, 2021
Councilmember Dumalag asked if the truckers reached out to were fine with the
overnight and weekend issue. Mr. Sullivan stated the responses from truckers stated
their schedules are very hard to manage and they did not see any restrictions as a
benefit. He noted they park their vehicles there for ease of accessibility, and because it
is more of a commercial, industrial area. He explained they were not in favor of this and
wanted more flexibility, but allowing some nights and weekends was what was agreed
upon, and they’ll see how it goes.
Mr. Sullivan stated the vehicles were over the road semis that travel down the highway
for days and weeks on end, and then pause for a few days and need to be parked .
Mayor Spano stated this less restrictive policy seems to be the best the city can do and
allow for a compromise.
Councilmember Harris stated she is supportive of this, adding it makes a great deal of
sense to not block the sight lines at the municipal center as well. She appreciates the
compromise reached by staff.
Councilmember Kraft asked how quickly this will go into effect, as well as those
approved along County Road 25. Mr. Sullivan stated they are hoping to install posts in
the next week or two and signs within 2-4 weeks, so by early December this should be in
place. Those along County Road 25 will have signs installed within the next few weeks
and then will be in place.
It was moved by Councilmember Dumalag, seconded by Councilmember Rog, to adopt
Resolution No. 21-125 to authorize truck parking restrictions on both sides of Oxford
Street from Powell Road to Louisiana Avenue, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday – Friday; and,
Resolution No. 21-126 to prohibit parking along the south side of Oxford Street between
the access driveways to the Municipal Service Center at 7305 Oxford Street
The motion passed by roll call vote 6-0 (Councilmember Mohamed absent).
8d. Authorize mayor and city manager to execute local trail connection agreement
with Three Rivers Park District
Councilmember Rog stated she wants to protect the dignity of the Native American art
planned for along the corridor. She stated this art located at the old entrance of the trail
was chosen for visibility and was intentional to hold student art. She does not want this
art relegated to the side and if moved will not be seen . She wants more, not fewer,
people to see it, noting a detour on the trail diminishes and dilutes its power and
relegates this to a side note. She stated let us elevate and celebrate this art and not
create a detour around it.
Councilmember Brausen asked where the artwork will continue to be and where the
pedestrian and bike entrance is. Mr. Sullivan stated this project developed over the
summer and was requested to consider leaving this trail as a permanent connection. He
DocuSign Envelope ID: 32FC26F7-F4EF-4523-ACF4-69206F44BE4A
City Council Meeting -9- October 18, 2021
stated it was needed when the bridge was installed, adding staff saw this as a cost -
savings measure as well. He noted it would be about 225 feet of additional trail and
repopulating of trees.
Councilmember Kraft asked about the costs related to this space. Mr. Sullivan stated the
$16,000 savings would be in removing the topsoil and putting in a temporary trail
connection, while planting trees where appropriate .
Councilmember Brausen asked if the $16,000 could be placed back into the city funds.
Ms. Keller stated yes. Councilmember Brausen asked if there is a second entrance. Mr.
Sullivan concurred.
Councilmember Harris asked if the access point to the bridge is in the same entrance
area and if there is any pedestrian/bike trail interaction that is of concern. Mr. Sullivan
stated there is a setback area between the two trails and they do not intersect.
Councilmember Harris agreed with Councilmember Rog’s comments on the artwork,
adding it makes sense the original access point should return to the original location.
She asked what the costs would be. Mr. Sullivan stated the $16,000 cost is to remove
the temporary trail connection and replace it with grass or tree cover. He noted the
green connection is also part of this cost and will be graded and paved in the next two
weeks.
Councilmember Dumalag stated this area is not in her ward and she has not been there .
She asked if there is a time constraint in deciding on this. Mr. Sullivan stated the grading
work is currently being done, so ideally a decision would need to be made within the
next two weeks.
Councilmember Kraft stated he would like to stick with the original plan and see the
green space be put back.
Mayor Spano stated this is a good faith decision by staff and he agrees with
Councilmember Rog and would want to lift-up the race equity work in this space. He
added maybe there is an opportunity to do more on this trail and possibly
Councilmember Rog should discuss this further with staff.
Mayor Spano stated this does not seem like a high priority, but he also would like
Councilmember Rog to have a discussion with staff on this as opposed to not doing
anything at all in the area.
Councilmember Brausen stated he will support Councilmember Rog’s position on this.
Ms. Keller stated staff is comfortable if council wants to stay with the current plan and
move forward.
DocuSign Envelope ID: 32FC26F7-F4EF-4523-ACF4-69206F44BE4A
City Council Meeting -10- October 18, 2021
It was moved by Councilmember Rog, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to not
approve this project as presented, not enter into the agreement, and return to two
entrances on the trail.
The motion passed by roll call vote 6-0 (Councilmember Mohamed absent).
8e. Approve fund closure, creation, and budget amendment. Resolution No. 21-
127
Councilmember Kraft noted this is the using of surpluses from the general fund for
several purposes and to further the city’s strategic objectives. He stated the formal
creation of the climate investment fund will help spur investments, reach goals, and
provide returns for the community. He added there are many side benefits including
saving money by reducing energy and improving indoor air quality by transitioning off
fossil fuel gas. He added he is appreciative of the work of staff.
Councilmember Harris stated she agrees the climate investment fund is geared toward
the commercial and industrial businesses, along with transportation .
Councilmember Rog asked if the $800,000 for the fund will not be solely for commercial .
Ms. Schmitt stated it will not be restricted to commercial, noting the EDA funds will be
used for both commercial and residential.
Councilmember Kraft stated he thought the $300,000 coming from EDA was for
commercial use only. Ms. Schmitt stated technically the EDA levy will be used for
salaries, but the funds will be used for climate.
It was moved by Councilmember Kraft, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to adopt
Resolution No. 21-127 approving fund closure, creation, and budget amendment.
The motion passed by roll call vote 6-0 (Councilmember Mohamed absent).
9. Communications
Mayor Spano announced the Lenox Foundation is holding a fundraiser for the Senior Program
on Oct. 19, 2021, at Parkway Pizza.
Councilmember Kraft stated the Louisiana Avenue bridge is opening Oct. 21, 2021, over
Minnehaha Creek and artwork will be installed later.
Councilmember Rog noted there is a catalytic converter event on Oct . 26, 2021, from 3-7 p.m.
and registration is available on the city website.
Ms. Keller noted next week’s study session has only one topic for discussion.
The council decided to add this topic onto a regular meeting in the future and not meet on
Mon., Oct. 25, 2021.
DocuSign Envelope ID: 32FC26F7-F4EF-4523-ACF4-69206F44BE4A
City Council Meeting -11- October 18, 2021
10. Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m.
______________________________________ ______________________________________
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Jake Spano, mayor
DocuSign Envelope ID: 32FC26F7-F4EF-4523-ACF4-69206F44BE4A