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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2016/08/15 - ADMIN - Minutes - City Council - Regularff/St. Louis Park OFFICIAL MINUTES MINNESOTA CITY COUNCIL MEETING ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA AUGUST 15, 2016 1. Call to Order Mayor Spano called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. Councilmembers present: Mayor Jake Spano, Tim Brausen, Steve Hallfin, Gregg Lindberg, Anne Mavity, Thom Miller, and Susan Sanger. Councilmembers absent: Steve Hallfin and Thom Miller. Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Harmening), City Attorney (Mr. Mattick), Housing Programs Coordinator (Ms. Olson), Principal Plainer (Ms. McMonigal), Assistant Zoning Administrator (Mr. Morrison), Planning & Zoning Supervisor (Mr. Walther), and Recording Secretary (Ms. Pappas). Guests: Volunteer Students of the Westwood Hills Nature Center Jr. Naturalist Program; Becky Bakken and Doug McIntyre of Discover St. Louis Park; Dean Dovolis, DJA Architects; Tony Bronco, Ryan Companies; David Keiner, Meadowbrook; and Bob Cunningham, Melrose. Ia. Pledge of Allegiance lb. Roll Call 2. Presentations 2a. Westwood Hills Nature Center Junior Naturalists Recognition Mayor Spano issued recognition certificates to the 2016 Westwood Hills Nature Center Junior Naturalists. The volunteers were from St. Louis Park, Golden Valley, Hopkins, Minneapolis, Rockford, and Robbinsdale. He noted how far these students come to volunteer their time at the Westwood Hills Nature Center and added that they are an asset to the community, and the city appreciates them. With energy and commitment, the Junior Naturalists work with animals, lead hikes, and staff summer day camps. Together, the group has donated over 1,600 hours this season. The Junior Naturalists thanked the Mayor and the city for continued support of their activities. Councilmember Brausen stated he lives near Westwood, and this program is indicative of the spirit of St. Louis Park. The spirit of volunteerism permeates the whole community, and he is proud of them. He added that he hopes they will be engaged in the upcoming visioning process. 2b. Recognition of Donations Mayor Spano thanked Jeanne and Steve Prawer for their very generous $2,200 donation for a bench at Westwood Hills Nature Center. City Council Meeting -2- August 15, 2016 3. Approval of Minutes 3a. City Council Special Study Session Minutes July 18, 2016 It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Lindberg, to approve the July 28, 2016 Special Study Session Meeting Minutes as presented The motion passed 5-0 (Councilmembers Hallfin and Miller absent). 3b. City Council Minutes July 18, 2016 It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Lindberg, to approve the July 18, 2016 City Council Meeting Minutes as presented. The motion passed 5-0 (Councilmembers Hallfin and Miller absent). 3c. City Council Special Study Session Minutes August 1, 2016 It was moved by Councilmember Sanger, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to approve the August 1, 2016 Special Study Session Meeting Minutes as presented. The motion passed 5-0 (Councilmembers Hal f n and Miller absent). 4. Approval of Agenda and Items on Consent Calendar 4a. Approve Second Reading and Adopt Ordinance No. 2497-16 amending Chapter 36 of the St. Louis Park Code of Ordinances relating to zoning to opt -out of Minnesota Statutes Section 462.3593 which defines and regulates Temporary Family Health Care Dwellings, and to approve the Summary Ordinance for Publication. 4b. Approve right-of-way purchase in the total amount of $130,500 for Parcel 12 (R & N Real Estate, LLC for 3501 Louisiana Ave) and authorize the City Attorney to execute stipulation of settlement. 4c. Adopt Resolution No. 16-095 approving acceptance of a monetary donation from Jeanne and Steve Prawer in the amount of $2,200 for Westwood Hills Nature Center. 4d. Adopt Resolution No. 16-096 acknowledging the issuance of a substitute confirming letter of credit to secure the City's variable rate demand multifamily housing refunding revenue bonds (Urban Park Apartments Project), series 2010B, and approving and authorizing the execution of documents related thereto. 4e. Adopt Resolution No. 16-097 authorizing the special assessment for the repair of the sewer service line at 2731 Salem Avenue South, St. Louis Park, Minnesota. P.I.D. 31-029-24-32-0140 4f. Adopt Resolution No. 16-098 authorizing the elimination of permit parking restrictions in front of 3125 Idaho Ave. S. 4g. Adopt Resolution No. 16-099 supporting the partnership between Minnehaha Creek Watershed District (MCWD) and Park Nicollet to protect, restore, enhance, and maintain Minnehaha Creek. City Council Meeting -3- August 15, 2016 4h. Adopt Resolution No. 16-100 accepting work and authorizing final payment in the amount of $65,254.02 for Project 2012-1000 Local Street Rehabilitation Project (Area 1) with ASTECH Corporation, Contract No. 35-13. 4i. Approve for filing Planning Commission Meeting Minutes of July 20, 2016. It was moved by Councilmember Movity, seconded by Councilmember Lindberg, to approve the Agenda and items listed on the Consent Calendar and to waive reading of all resolutions and ordinances. The motion passed 5-0 (Councilmembers Halm and Miller absent). 5. Boards and Commissions - None 6. Public Hearings 6a. St. Louis Park Liquor — Off Sale Intoxicating Liquor License (Ownership Change) Ms. Kennedy presented the staff report and application received from Kevin Tran for an off -sale intoxicating liquor license for the premises at 6316 Minnetonka Blvd. Mr. Tran will be the new sole owner and store manager of St. Louis Park Liquor, an existing off - sale liquor store. The licensed premises is not proposed to change and will continue to be approximately 1,200 square feet in size. The applicant provided proof of liquor liability insurance with his license application. Ms. Kennedy noted the police department completed a background investigation on the applicant and found nothing that warranted denial of the license application at this time. Mayor Spano opened the public hearing. No speakers were present. Mayor Spano closed the public hearing. It was moved by Councilmember Sanger, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to approve application from Kevin Tran dba St. Louis Park Liquor for an Off -Sale Intoxicating Liquor License for the premises located at 6316 Minnetonka Blvd., for the license term ending March 1, 2017. The motion passed 5-0 (Councilmembers Hallfin and Miller absent). 6b. Parkway 25 - Public Hearing and First Reading of Ordinance Vacating Drainage and Utility Easements Ms. Mardell presented the staff report regarding The Parkway 25 redevelopment site located at 4001 and 4025 Highway 7. The redevelopment proposal includes a preliminary and final plat that will combine two parcels into one parcel, and a preliminary and final planned unit development (PUD) for a mixed use development, including 111 residential units and approximately 8,500 square feet of commercial space. The proposed site design includes several encroachments into existing drainage utility easements. In order for the proposed development to proceed, these easements need to be vacated. Ms. Mardell stated the applicant is requesting the city vacate drainage utility easements for the properties noted in the staff report, and the development plan proposes using this City Council Meeting -4- August 15, 2016 easement area for an underground storm water management system, underground parking, and building improvements. The developer is proposing two new drainage utility easements that better suit the site and development, and that maintain the city's interests for ongoing easements. Mayor Spano opened the public hearing. No speakers were present. Mayor Spano closed the public hearing. It bras moved by Councilmember Sanger, seconded by Councilmember Mavity, to approve first reading of an Ordinance vacating drainage utility easements and set the second reading of Ordinance for September 6, 2016 The motion passed 5-0 (Councilmembers Hallfin and Miller absent). 7. Requests, Petitions, and Communications from the Public — None 8. Resolutions, Ordinances, Motions and Discussion Items 8a. Master Marketing Agreement — Discover St. Louis Park and City of Golden Valley Becky Bakken, Discover St. Louis Park, presented the report and asked for approval and ratification of the agreement of the Master Marketing Agreement between Discover St. Louis Park and the City of Golden Valley. Councilmember Mavity stated Discover St. Louis Park has been a smashing success, and the city understands why folks want to be part of it. She added that St. Louis Park branding has been helpful in this, and one of the keys to this success is the city's tight community identity. Councilmember Lindberg agreed with Councilmember Mavity, noting this has been a wild success. The branding has been great, and it will be great to partner with Golden Valley. Ms. Bakken noted the agreement also provides an easy out for both parties, while both cities will evaluate on a yearly basis. Mr. Harmening added this has been an incredible success, and in June, 2016, St. Louis Park hotels and Discover SLP had the best month ever in the program's five years. He recognized Doug McIntyre from Discover St. Louis Park, who drafted the agreement. Mayor Spano added this is a winning situation for all. It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Mavity, to approve and ratify the Master Marketing Agreement between Discover St, Louis Park (DSLP) and the City of Golden Valley. The motion passed 5-0 (Councilmembers Hallfin and Miller absent). City Council Meeting -5- August 15, 2016 8b. Ordinance Amending St. Louis Park City Code Chapter 3, Section 70 (g) (1) Ms. Kennedy presented the staff report regarding the first reading of an ordinance to amend St. Louis Park City Code Chapter 3, Section 70 (g) (1) to exempt congressionally chartered veterans organizations holding a club liquor license from the minimum 50% food -liquor ratio requirement and to schedule the second reading of the ordinance on September 6, 2016. Ms. Kennedy noted this item was discussed by the council at two separate study sessions in response to a request received from the Frank Lundberg American Legion Post #282. The proposed ordinance was drafted based on the direction received from the council. It was moved by Councilmember Mavity, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to approve the first reading of an ordinance amending St. Louis Park City Code Chapter 3, Section 70 (g) (1) to Exempt Congressionally Chartered Veterans Organizations Holding a Club Liquor License from the Minimum 50% Food -Liquor Ratio Requirement and to schedule the second reading of the ordinance on September 6, 2016 Councilmember Sanger stated she would not support this motion, but added this had nothing to do with any veterans' organizations or the American Legion. She explained her objection relates to the underlying rationale for the existing 50/50 requirement. The 50/50 requirement is so that patrons are likely to eat while they consume alcohol so that they may be less likely to leave the premises and drive drunk. She stated that she has no objection except for public safety reasons. The Legion should be held to the same standards as every other entity in town, so she will not support this. Mayor Spano noted this ordinance is not written in stone and can be changed at any time again if needed. The motion passed 4-1 (Councilmember Sanger opposed; Councilmembers Hallfin and Miller absent). 8e. Consulting Services for Community Visioning Initiative Ms. McMonigal summarized that the council met with two consultant groups to discuss the process for updating the city's vision and comprehensive plan. At the August 1 study session, Council directed staff to work with Next Generation Consulting Group to create a work scope and contract. It is expected the consultant will begin work in September. Councilmember Mavity stated she is very excited about this consultant's proposal and the prospect of all residents having the opportunity to weigh in on the visioning process. Councilmember Lindberg agreed and noted this is a great start to the visioning process. He added the consultant understands what the city is looking for, and he is excited to see the results of the visioning process. He encouraged everyone to participate in the process in order to set the stage for the future of St. Louis Park. Councilmember Sanger also agreed, noting it will be important that all members of the community participate and give their opinions. She encouraged citizens to participate in meetings or take surveys and get involved so the city can get their feedback. City Council Meeting -6- August 15, 2016 Councilmember Brausen asked everyone to please come forward and share their thoughts and vision for St. Louis Park. He added that the city is hoping to have links on the website to do this. Mayor Spano stated the council viewed two good proposals, but this one really focused on who is at the table to participate in the visioning process. He added, as the city goes through the race equity initiative, it will be important to have everyone involved, noting it is important folks weigh in on this. It was moved by Councilmember Lindberg, seconded by Councilmember Mavity, to direct staff to negotiate a final contract and scope of work with Next Generation Consulting for St Louis Park's Community Visioning process and authorize execution of the contract by the City Manager and Mayor. The motion passed 5-0 (Councilmembers Hallfrn and Miller absent). 8d. Parkway 25 - Preliminary and Final Planned Unit Development, Preliminary and Final Plat Ms. Mardell explained the Sela Group is requesting a Preliminary and Final PUD and Preliminary and Final Plat for redevelopment of the former Vescio's Restaurant and ValueStay Inn site. The sites are proposed to be combined and developed into a 5 -story, mixed use building, with 111 residential units, approximately 8,500 square feet of commercial space, and parking located in two surface lots and in an underground parking ramp. The applicant is not seeking assistance from the City of St. Louis Park. Ms. Mardell explained that various design views of the planned development were presented, including front and rear views. She noted there will be 110 new trees, 338 shrubs, and 1,146 perennials. Ms. Mardell stated the Planning Commission recommended approval of this plan on July 20. Councilmember Sanger stated she is pleased to move for approval on this project, noting it is a well-designed plan with good-sized units. She added no one has called to complain to her about it, and it will be a huge improvement aesthetically in the area. She added her only concern is that the developer has provided for a lot of bicycle storage; however, there is no access to bike trails. She hopes this is something that can be worked on in the future. Mr. Dovolis, developer with DJR Architecture, stated the rent will be in the $2 per square foot range. He added that studio units are 30% larger than typical, and there will be only 2 studios in the complex. I -Ie added the building is meant to be a legacy building with long-term residents. Councilmember Brausen raised the issue of affordable housing, especially in this area near the proposed light rail. He noted while this development will not include affordable housing, he hopes the council will discuss this type of policy in the future. He added he will support this project but wants to put affordable housing on the radar. Councilmember Mavity agreed on the applicability of inclusionary housing but added she does not want to change the rules midstream. She noted the council will need to revisit City Council Meeting -7- August 15, 2016 this issue, and soon. She also asked staff if the frontage road would be retained, as it relates to the light rail project and this area of development. Mr. Walther stated there are some opportunities for flexibility with this plan, as well as opportunities for shared parking in case the frontage road is eliminated. Councilmember Sanger asked for a project timeline. Mr. Dovolis stated they would begin the project in the spring, and it usually takes about one year for occupancy. Councilmember Sanger asked about the potential changing of the name of CSAH 25 and where the city is on this discussion. Mr. Walther pointed out the city has looked at this; however, there are no efforts at this point. Mayor Spano stated it is a county road. Mr. Harmening stated the county has said cities can name county roads whatever they like, but it will still remain a county road. Councilmember Lindberg stated there is a density issue, and he looks forward to a conversation exploring ways to expand affordable housing, however, this project should not be changed in the middle of development. He added market saturation data will also be good to have. It was moved by Councilmember Sanger, seconded by Councilmember Mavity, to adopt Resolution No. 16-I04, approving the Preliminary and Final Plat and to approve the Preliminary and Final Planned Unit Development (PUD) subject to conditions as recommended by staff and set the second reading of the PUD ordinance for September 6, 2016 The motion passed 5-0 (Councilmembers Halm and Miller absent). 8e. 10 West End - Preliminary and Final Planned Unit Development, Preliminary and Final Plat Ms. Mardell explained that Ryan Companies and the Excelsior Group are requesting a Preliminary and Final PUD and Preliminary and Final Plat to allow construction of an 11 story, 335,710 square foot, Class A office tower and a 7 -level, 1,214 stall parking structure. This development is the 4" phase of the Central Park West PUD and features a 3,200 square foot ground floor coffee shop/deli; outdoor meeting space; fitness facility; 114 space indoor bike storage room; and locker rooms. The PUD is a rezoning of the property and zoning text amendment under the city's PUD ordinance. The applicant is also requesting a Preliminary and Final Plat to subdivide the existing Outlot A into two new additions - one for the proposed North Tower and one for a future South Tower, still in concept. Ms. Mardell stated that on May I 1 the applicant held a neighborhood meeting, which had three attendees. The Planning Commission held a public hearing on July 20 and voted unanimously to recommend approval of the application. Councilmember Brausen asked if the green space and underground watering would be included in the development. Ms. Mardell said it would be included. Councilmember Sanger stated she likes the space for bicycles but added it is difficult for residents to bike to the West End. She asked staff if St. Louis Park and Golden Valley are City Council Meeting -8- August 15, 2016 working together to develop a bike lane from the trail to the West End. Staff stated that a plan is being developed for trail access on the east side of Highway 100 and the underpass of Highway 100. It is a proposal for an off-road trail on the Golden Valley side and on the east side of Quentin Avenue to the JCC area, with a trail on the south side, as well. Mayor Spano asked the developer when they would be breaking ground on the project. Mr. Barranco stated they are actively marketing the site and having a great response right now. He added there is no ground breaking date set as yet, but they do plan to start in the spring or summer of 2017. It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Lindberg, to adopt Resolution No. 16-105, approving the Preliminary and Final Plat and to approve the Preliminary and Final Planned Unit Development (PUD) subject to conditions as recommended by staff and set the second reading of the PUD ordinance for September 6, 2016 The motion passed 5-0 (Councilmembers Halfn and Miller absent). 8f. Meadowbrook Manor — Conditional Use Permit. Resolution No. 16-101 Mr. Walther stated the applicant, Sambatek, Inc., on behalf of the owner of Meadowbrook Manor Apartments, LLC, is requesting approval of a Conditional Use Permit to construct a clubhouse, swimming pool, maintenance shed, and associated grading work at the apartment complex, within a multi -family residential development in the R-4 Multiple Family Residence Zoning District. The Planning Commission reviewed this on July 20 and recommended approval. Councilmember Mavity stated the drawings and renditions of this project are well done; however, she and some residents have concerns about the increased pressure on rents in this complex. She noted the Meadowbrook ownership changed a few months back. There are 551 units of affordable housing at Meadowbrook, and it did come to the council's attention that some residents were evicted. While the city has an interest in these buildings being well-managed, there is also a concern about how to retain this naturally occurring affordable housing. She added that while the council appreciates these improvements, many residents have asked the council to look at this issue and also asked if the city has policies in place to maintain the affordability of Meadowbrook. She stated she hopes this topic will be on a council agenda for discussion soon. Councilmember Brausen asked if there is a fence around the pool area. Mr. Walther said yes. Councilmember Brausen asked if there are lifeguards at the pool. David Keinert, Portfolio Director at Meadowbrook, stated there are no plans for lifeguards at the pool; however, there is 24-hour security, and staff is trained in CPR and first aid. Councilmember Sanger asked if this planned improvement is part of a larger plan for more connnon areas. Mr. Keinert stated that it is the only area planned for improvement and the only location where these services can be provided to residents. City Council Meeting -9- August 15, 2016 Councilmember Brausen asked what will happen to the current tenants in the building that will be taken down. Mr. Keinert stated the building is empty now, and the residents have moved into other units in the complex or into other apartment communities. Mayor Spano stated he visited Meadowbrook on National Night Out, and there were a lot of folks asking questions about the changes. He added he had several questions from residents about the basketball court and if it would be added back to the complex. He stated he hoped it could be worked out, especially for the older kids living there. Mr. Keinert stated the basketball court has been out of commission for a while, and they have only had one person ask about it at their office, so he was surprised at the concern. IIe stated it may be brought back in the future, but at this time they are focusing on their new amenities. Councilmember Mavity asked if the Meadowbrook Collaborative continues to be part of this plan. Mr. Keinert answered that it will continue to be an important part of Meadowbrook. Councilmember Mavity thanked Mr. Keinert for that commitment. Councilmember Mavity asked if they will be doing pro formas and estimated costs over the next years, and if improvements are made if they will be factored in. She also asked if they are anticipating any larger improvements in the complex. Mr. Keinert stated they like to keep the apartments full, so they are working to keep costs down and develop relationships with residents to ensure people will stay at Meadowbrook. At this time, they have no amenities, so the pools and community spaces will encourage book clubs and ESL clubs. He added they are a market rate cormnunity and he does not see this as a reason to increase their rates. It was moved by Councilmember Mavity, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to adopt Resolution No. 16-101, granting a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for Meadowbrook Manor and allowing construction of a Clubhouse, Swimming Pool and Maintenance Shed, and associated grading work at 6922-6932 Meadowbrook Blvd, subject to conditions recommended by staff The motion passed 5-0 (Councibnembers Hallfin and Miller absent). 8g. Arlington Row West Plat Revision and First Reading Major PUD Amendment. Resolution No. 16-102 8h. Arlington Row East Planned Unit Development (PUD) Major Amendment It was noted the developer, Melrose Company, submitted an application for a revision to the plat for Arlington Row West to correct a surveyor error in the previously approved plat. In addition, applications have been submitted for major amendments to the PUD's for both Arlington Row East and Arlington Row West to add solar installations designed to be located above carports in the parking lots of both sites. Councilmember Brausen asked how wide the solar panels will be. Mr. Cunningham from Melrose stated that the three panels will be 15 feet total. Councilmember Brausen also asked if there would be any drainage issues. Mr. Cunningham stated no. Councilmember Sanger stated she is glad to see they will be installing solar panels and asked why a major amendment needed to be included. Mr. Walther stated this is because City Council Meeting -10- August 15, 2016 the PUD approvals were specific to the site plan documents submitted with the application and because the panels are on car port structures that were not included in the original plan. Councilmember Mavity agreed that the solar panel addition is great. Mr. Cunningham stated he is still working to get funding for this project, and he will keep the council posted on this. Councilmember Brausen stated he is very supportive of this project. It is in his ward, and folks have been asking when the project will start. He added this will be a wonderful addition to the area. Mayor Spano agreed the solar panels made the project better and stated he was very happy to see this. It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Mavity, to adopt Resolution No. 16-102, approving the major amendment to the Final Plat of Arlington Row West, to approve the First Reading of Ordinance amending Chapter 36 of the City Code relating to Arlington Row West Planned Unit Development and to schedule the Second Reading for September 6, 2016, and to approve the First Reading of an Ordinance amending Chapter 36 of the City Code relating to Arlington Row East Planned Unit Development and set the Second Reading for September 6, 2016 The motion passed 5-0 (Councilmembers Hallfrn and Miller absent). 8i. First Reading of Zoning Ordinance Amendment Pertaining to Accessory Buildings and Signs Mr. Walther noted that staff is requesting an amendment to the zoning code that proposes to: 1. Update the maximum size accessory building that can be constructed without a building permit and require a zoning permit for those buildings. 2. Correct conflicting setbacks required for accessory buildings. 3. Increase the size maximum allowed for signs in the R-4 Multiple Family Residence district and the R -C High -Density Multiple Family Residence district. 4. Decrease the minimum setback required for signs at schools, community centers, libraries, religious institutions, and other similar uses. The Planning Cormnission recommended approval of the ordinance amendment on July 20, 2016. It was moved by Councilmember Mavity, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to approve the First Reading of an Ordinance amending the Zoning Code pertaining to accessory buildings and signs, and to set the Second Reading for September 6, 2016 The motion passed 5-0 (Councilmembers Hallfrn and Miller absent). 9. Communications City Council Meeting -11- August 15, 2016 Councilmember Brausen thanked citizens for their hospitality on National Night Out. 10. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 9:50 p.m. Melissa Cennedy, ity Clerk