HomeMy WebLinkAbout2016/03/21 - ADMIN - Minutes - City Council - RegularOfSt. Louis Park OFFICIAL MINUTES
MINNESOTA CITY COUNCIL MEETING
ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
MARCH 21, 2016
1. Call to Order
Mayor Spano called the meeting to order at 7:32 p.m.
Councilmembers present: Mayor Jake Spann, Tim Brausen, Steve Hallfin, Gregg Lindberg,
Anne Mavity, Thom Miller, and Susan Sanger.
Councilmembers absent: None.
Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Harmening), City Attorney (Mr. Mattick), Deputy City
Manager/Human Resources Director (Ms. Deno), Economic Development Specialist (Ms.
Grove), Engineering Director (Ms. Heiser), Associate Planner (Ms. Mardell), Assistant Zoning
Administrator (Mr. Morrison), Senior Engineering Project Director (Mr. Shamla),
Communications Specialist (Ms. Pribbenow), and Recording Secretary (Ms. Batra).
Guests: Jayne Stevenson (Student, St. Louis Park High School), Owen Guyer (Student, St. Louis
Park High School), Lucas Reid (Student, St. Louis Park High School), and Sophia Skinner
(Student, St. Louis Park High School).
la. Pledge of Allegiance
lb. Roll Call
2. Presentations
2a. Climate Report Card iMatter SLP High School Youth
Jayne Stevenson, 4329 Coolidge Avenue, explained that she is involved in Roots and
Shoots at St. Louis Park High School. She is dedicated to ending the climate crisis within
her lifetime. She explained what would happen if this issue is not addressed and stated
she is concerned and she cares about her future.
Owen Guyer, 2901 Toledo Avenue South, stated that climate change has been an
important issue to him since he took AP Environmental Science. He frequently takes
trips to the Boundary Waters and wishes to preserve that area. He presented the Climate
Report Card. In the first area, Zero Emissions Plan, the city received a D because there is
no plan at this time. In renewable energy, the city received an A- because the State uses a
lot of renewable energy. As far as waste and recycling, the city received an A+ because
the city has great waste programs. The city received a C in carbon removal and a '/2
grade bonus because youth are involved in the mission. Overall, the city's grade is a B-.
Lucas Reid, 1624 Nevada Avenue South, explained he feels many people will follow
their group if they take the lead because the students will have to live with the effects of
climate change longer due to their young age. He stated the City of St. Louis Park can be
a leader in this worldwide movement. There are people who are willing to give input on
this issue in the city.
City Council Meeting -2- March 21, 2016
Sophia Skinner, 4521 Vulgar Avenue South, explained that the environment has been
important to her throughout her life. The increase in carbon dioxide is the greatest it's
ever been, so there's no more time to waste. She recognizes applying the students'
suggestions would take time and would like to develop a plan, a draft of which has
already been created. She stated the time is now to come together to ensure a livable and
sustainable future.
Mayor Spann stated the students' presentation is exactly the motivation needed to get
things moving. He noted the city does lead in some areas; however, there is room for
improvement.
Councilmember Hallfin stated the presentation was great. He could tell that the students
are very knowledgable on the subject. He explained that recently the Environment and
Sustainability Commission was created, and he would like to see that commission work
with the students' draft and then present to Council for review.
Councilmember Sanger expressed appreciation of the students' presentation. She
applauds the work done and for giving the Council a push in the right direction. She
asked the students what's next on their agenda. Mr. Guyer stated that Roots and Shoots
helps run the compost collection at the school and a fundraiser was conducted to finance
future projects.
Councilmember Mavity stated that she is impressed with the professionalism and
thoughtfulness of the students. She added that the Council welcomes any direction to
advance this agenda.
Councilmember Miller asked how the students became involved with iMatter and how
the students plan to work together with that organization going forward. Ms. Stevenson
stated she was connected with Larry Kraft, Executive Director of the iMatter
organization, at which time bringing the iMatter agenda items into the city was discussed.
Larry Kraft is working as a mentor to the students.
Councilmember Lindberg stated his appreciation that the students pointed out areas
where the city could improve. He stated that it is time to put action into the commitment
the City has made to create a better future.
Councilmember Brausen stated this issue is very important to him because he hopes to
leave the world in better shape than when he entered. Climate change didn't happen
overnight; therefore, a long-term commitment is required. In addition, he suggested to
vote for candidates that care about the environment to charnel the passion and help aid
the cause.
Ryan Griffin, 4980 West 40`h Street, explained that he serves on the Environment and
Sustainability Commission with Ms. Stevenson. Creating a sustainability action plan is
the goal for 2016, and he would like to present some draft goals to the Council on April
18 at the Special Study Session.
Patty O'Keefe, 8113 Virginia Circle North, stated she loves this city and plans on living
here for a long time. She noted she is impressed with the city's reaction to the students'
proposal and is proud of the city's accomplishments.
City Council Meeting -3- March 21, 2016
Paul Thompson, representative from iMatter, stated that he always points to St. Louis
Park when discussing neighborhood sustainability.
Mayor Spano stated that the presentation is very helpful to the city. He explained that
when the city enacted the organized curbside compost program, the collection site's
organic matter increased by 40% in one year because of the city's organics program. The
Climate Report Card brought the city's issues to the forefront. He noted the city can do
more and do better.
2b. Recognition of Donations
Mayor Spano announced two donations the City received: a $10,000 donation from
Arvig Enterprises, Inc., for 144 -fiber strand to be installed in one city -owned conduit and
a $40 donation from Common Hope Staff for the Westwood Hills Nature Center.
2e. ParkTVLocal Programming Month Proclamation
Mayor Spano presented the proclamation to John McHugh for ParkTV Local
Programming Month.
3. Approval of Minutes
3a. City Council Study Session Meeting Minutes February 8, 2016
The minutes were approved as presented.
It was moved by Councilmember Braursen and seconded by Councilmember Hallfrn to
approve the February 8, 2016 Study Session Minutes as presented.
3b. City Council Special Study Session Meeting Minutes February 16, 2016
The minutes were approved as presented.
It was moved by Councilmember Lindberg and seconded by Councilmember Miller to
approve the February 16, 2016 Special Study Session Minutes as presented.
3c. City Council Meeting Minutes February 16, 2016
The minutes were approved as presented.
It was moved by Councilmember Miller and seconded by Councilmember Lindberg to
approve the February 16, 2016 Council Meeting Minutes as presented.
4. Approval of Agenda and Items on Consent Calendar
NOTE: The Consent Calendar lists those items of business which are considered to be routine
and/or which need no discussion. Consent items are acted upon by one motion. If discussion is
desired by either a Councilmember or a member of the audience, that item may be moved to an
appropriate section of the regular agenda for discussion.
City Council Meeting -4- March 21, 2016
4a. Adopt Resolution No. 16-037 to recognize Captain Deane Wallick for his 35 years of
service to the City of St. Louis Park.
4b. Adopt Resolution No. 16-038 approving acceptance of donation of fiber strand cable
from Arvig Enterprises, Inc.
4c. Adopt Resolution No. 16-039 authorizing the installation of "No Parking" restrictions
on the south side of Lake Street from Webster Avenue to 50 feet southwest of Webster
Avenue.
4d. Adopt Resolution No. 16-040 authorizing the installation of "No Parking" restrictions
on the south side of the alley between Maryland/Louisiana Avenue and 31st/32nd
Street.
4e. Adopt Resolution No. 16-041 rescinding prior traffic controls and authorizing the
installation of stop signs on 29th Street at Brunswick Avenue.
4f. Adopt Resolution No. 16-042 authorizing calling for a Public Hearing on April 18,
2016 on the issuance of Health Care Facilities Revenue Refunding Bonds and
authorizing the publication of a notice of the hearing for the Mount Olivet Project.
4g. Adopt Resolution No. 16-043 approving acceptance of a monetary donation from the
Common Hope staff in the amount of $40 for Westwood Hills Nature Center.
4h. Declare Gamble Drive, adjacent to the West End, as the official West End Festival
Site.
4i. Designate Michels Corporation as the lowest responsible bidder and authorize
execution of a contract with the firm in the amount of $134,891.00 for the Sanitary
Sewer Main Rehab Project No. 4016-3000.
4j. Approve for filing Planning Commission Minutes of February 3, 2016
4k. Approve for filing Telecommunications Commission Minutes of December 9, 2015
41. Approve for filing Environment & Sustainability Commission Meeting Minutes of
December 2, 2015
4m. Approve for filing Environment & Sustainability Commission Meeting Minutes of
January 6, 2016
4n. Approve for filing Parks & Rec Advisory Commission Minutes of December 2, 2015
40. Approve for filing Parks & Ree Advisory Commission Minutes of January 20, 2016
4p. Approve for filing Parks & Ree Advisory Commission Minutes of February 17, 2016
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Sanger, to
approve the Agenda as presented on the Consent Calendar; and to waive reading of all
resolutions and ordinances.
The motion passed 7-0.
5. Boards and Commissions - None
6. Public Hearings
6a. Public Hearing - Establishment of the Wayzata Blvd Tax Increment
Financing District. Resolution No. 16-044
City Council Meeting -5- March 21, 2016
Mr. Hunt presented the staff report regarding the proposed resolution approving the
establishment of the Wayzata Boulevard Tax Increment Financing District within
Redevelopment Project No. 1 and referenced the presentation given at the EDA meeting.
Mayor Spano opened the public hearing. No speakers were present. Mayor Spano closed
the public hearing.
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Sanger to adopt
Resolution No. 16-044 approving the establishment of the Wayzata Blvd Tax Increment
Financing District within Redevelopment Project No. I (a redevelopment district).
The motion passed 7-0.
7. Requests, Petitions, and Communications from the Public — None
8. Resolutions, Ordinances, Motions and Discussion Items
8a. Project Report: MSA Project - Flag Avenue/ Quentin Avenue Project No.
4016-1100. Resolution No. 16-045 and 16-046
Mr. Shamla presented the staff report regarding the pavement improvement project plan
on Flag Avenue and Quentin Avenue.
Mr. Shamla explained that on Flag Avenue, staff is proposing a 2 -inch mill and overlay,
random curb and sidewalk replacement, abandoning a 6 -inch watermain between 18`x'
Street and Franklin Avenue, repair of the water valves and storm piping, and new curb
ramps to meet ADA standards. On Quentin Avenue, staff is proposing to install a 2 -inch
mill and overlay.
Mr. Shamla explained that in order to get parking on one side, a 32 foot width is required.
The City has proposed no parking on one side of the street to meet the state standards to
receive funding. On one section, there is no parking on either side due to the fact that the
road is too narrow. Notice was given to residents and business owners, and only one
response was received. An open house was conducted on January 21, 2016, and residents
were generally accepting of the design following discussion with staff.
Mr. Shamla explained that the project is expected to take two months to complete. The
road will be open to traffic during construction. The project is estimated to cost
$825,644.
Councilmember Sanger asked, with regard to Quentin Avenue, which specific blocks are
affected and what is the timing of the project. Mr. Shamla responded that the project will
be complete in four days and will be done at night so traffic will not be obstructed.
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Sanger, to adopt
Resolution No. 16-045 accepting the project report, establishing improvement project
No. 4016-1100, approving plans and specifications, and authorizing advertisement for
bids as recommended by Staff, to adopt Resolution No. 16-046 authorizing installation
of "No Parking" restrictions on FlagAvemre between 18th Street and Cedar Lake Road.
City Council Meeting -6- March 21, 2016
Councilmember Brausen stated he appreciates the staffs work on this project and asked
for residents' patience and understanding during construction.
The motion passed 7-0.
8b. AC Hotel by Marriott Final Planned Unit Development
Ms. Mardell presented the staff report regarding the AC Hotel by Marriott Final Planned
Unit Development. Planning staff reviewed the plans and found that the vision remains
consistent with the city's plan for that area.
Ms. Mardell presented a slide that displayed the east, west, north, and south sides of the
buildings. She discussed the characteristics of the proposed hotel, which includes 126
rooms, 189 parking stalls, and 3500 square feet for a restaurant and lounge serving light
appetizers and a breakfast bar. She discussed the hotel's plan for landscaping and the
rooftop deck. A neighborhood meeting was held on January 27, 2016 and three people
attended. Parking was the major concern among those in attendance at the meeting. In
response to Councilmember Miller's inquiry about the hotel's completion date,
Ms. Mardell stated that the project is scheduled to be complete in the spring of 2017.
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Lindberg, to
approve the first reading of Ordinance approving the Preliminary and Final Planned
Unit Development (PUD) for AC Hotel by Marriott, Central Park West Phase III, subject
to conditions and to set the second reading for April 4, 2016
Councilmember Sanger asked for clarification on "bar/restaurant" and if the hotel is
bound by the State's statutory requirements. Ms. Mardell confirmed that the
bar/restaurant will follow the State's guidelines.
Mayor Spano asked about the City of Golden Valley and whether any problems are
anticipated when the plan is presented to that city. Ms. Mardell stated she does not
anticipate any objections from Golden Valley City Council. Councilmember Brausen
stated he is happy to see that the number of rooms has been scaled down and the project
is following green building practices. Councilmember Miller stated he is very impressed
with the unique mix of leasing and retail in the West End.
The motion passed 7-0.
8e. Arlington Row Apartments East —Preliminary & Final Plat and Preliminary
& Final PUD (First Reading). Resolution No. 16-047
Ms. Grove presented the staff report regarding Arlington Row Apartments East —
Preliminary and Final Plat and Preliminary and Final PUD, which is located in the
northwest quadrant of the city.
Ms. Grove discussed the development's history. The Council gave direction that this
property should be developed as mixed-use or multi -family development. The Council
approved purchasing this property, which was then purchased in May, 2015, and sold to
the applicant in July, 2015. A public hearing was held on February 17, 2016, and a
neighborhood meeting was also held in February.
City Council Meeting -7- March 21, 2016
Ms. Grove explained the applicant is proposing to create one lot out of seven single-
family home lots. She noted the homes were taken by Mn/DOT and demolished for the
394 corridor. Ms. Grove discussed the plat, sidewalks, and the drainage/utility easement
variance. She explained that Wayzata Boulevard is at a lower elevation than the lot.
Ms. Grove explained that the site plan is for a 3 -story building with 27 units, 43 surface
parking spaces, and 51 bike spaces. In addition, the development received a grant from
the Metropolitan Council to incorporate solar/geothermal/storm water into the plans. As
part of this grant, the developer has agreed to create six units eligible for affordable
housing at 80% area median income. A 10 -foot retaining wall will be constructed to
address the slope issue on the site, which is about 3 -feet on the west side and up to 10 -
feet to Wayzata Boulevard. The development will consist of 11 one -bedroom units and
16 two-bedroom units.
Ms. Grove stated that a traffic study was conducted and the key intersections in the plan
were examined. The study found that there will be no change in the level of service so
there are no traffic control changes recommended at this time.
Ms. Grove discussed the public hearing that was held on the proposed development.
Some of the residents who attended the meeting had concerns about increased traffic, the
height and scale of the building, negative impacts on property value, and/or concern
about potential on -street parking. Once the development is constructed, parking will be
addressed should a problem actually occur.
Councilmember Brausen asked if a stairwell was planned to be constructed in the
northeast corner to go to Wayzata Boulevard. Mike Engel, architect, responded that there
is a connection on the western side, but there is not a connection on the eastern side due
to the grade change. Councilmember Brausen asked about vines on the retaining wall.
The developer responded that nothing is planned at this time; however, that is an
excellent idea.
Councilmember Mavity asked if there is free access to move towards the transit center to
soften the retaining wall. The developer responded that there currently is no sidewalk
there.
Councilmember Sanger noticed that there will be more two-bedroom units than one -
bedroom units. She stated her appreciation of the uniqueness of the proposed design. In
response to Councilmember Sanger's question about the cost of rent for the development,
the developer responded that rents will be from $1.65 to $1.70 per foot, which is
substantially lower than other luxury rentals in the area. In addition, the geothermal
system will further reduce costs due to lower cost for utilities.
Councilmember Lindberg stated this project makes absolute sense for the city, because it
includes new construction living and great amenities for a more affordable price.
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Mavity, to adopt
Resolution No. 16-047, approving the Preliminary and Final Plat with Subdivision
Variance of Arlington Row Apartments East with conditions; and approve First Reading
of Ordinance creating Section 36 -268 -PUD 5 and amending the Zoning Map from R-3
City Council Meeting -8- March 21, 2016
Two -Family Residence to PUD 5 for property on the 7700 block of Wayzata Boulevard
and to set the Second Reading of the Ordinance for April 4, 2016.
Councilmember Brausen expressed his approval of the development. As always, the
residents are concerned about traffic; however, this area is built to handle a high volume
of traffic. Also, staff and developers are aware that parking could be an issue, and it will
be addressed if it's a problem.
The motion passed 7-0.
8d. Conditional Use Permit — Mister Car Wash, 8700 MN Highway 7.
Resolution No. 16-048.
Mr. Morrison presented the staff report regarding a Conditional Use Permit for Mister
Car Wash located at 8700 MN Highway 7.
Mr. Morrison explained that the property is located on the north side of Highway 7
between Super Target and Knollwood. Mister Car Wash is proposing to construct an
addition and add parking spaces. The business is looking to change the layout to make
services more efficient. The proposed development of this project is all outside of the
flood fringe. A public hearing was held on February 16, and no one attended. Staff is
recommending approval of this resolution as listed in the staff report.
Councilmember Lindberg asked if the Watershed District has any input regarding the
water waste. Mr. Morrison responded that the Watershed District did approve the
application.
Councilmember Sanger asked about the use of water at the car wash and whether there is
a provision for re -use. Mr. Vaughn, owner of Mister Car Wash, responded that water is
reused for wheel cleaning and undercarriage. Councilmember Lindberg asked about
chemicals in use at the car wash. Mr. Vaughn stated that his business uses biodegradable
products that are safe for the environment.
Councilmember Lindberg urged caution with use of chemicals, water usage, and the
creek nearby.
It teas moved by Councilmember Lindberg, seconded by Councilmember Mavity, to adopt
Resolution No. 16-048, rescinding the existing Special Permit to allow a car wash in the
C-2 General Commercial zoning district and FEMA floodplain, and approving a
Conditional Use Permit (CUP) to operate and expand the existing car wash in the C-2
General Commercial zoning district and FEMA floodplain, subject to conditions
recommended by staff.
The motion passed 7-0.
8e. 1st Reading of Zoning Ordinance Amendment Related to Distilleries and
Cocktail Rooms.
Mr. Morrison presented the staff report regarding the proposed ordinance amendment for
distilleries and cocktail rooms. The proposed amendment has three parts - establish a
City Council Meeting -9- March 21, 2016
land use definition for microdistillery and cocktail room; allow a microdistillery in the
Business Park, Industrial Park, and General Industrial Districts; and allow a
microdistillery in the Business Park and Industrial Park District to operate a cocktail
room.
Mr. Morrison discussed the exclusion for General Industrial District for cocktail rooms
and the reasons that the cocktail rooms do not meet that definition. There is some
overlap with other businesses, and outdoor storage is not permitted at all in this district.
A public hearing was conducted on January 17.2016, and staff is recommending approval
and setting a Second Reading for April 4, 2016.
Councilmember Mavity stated that she's excited that Ward 2 is attracting urban and
funky businesses. She explained that she sees this type of business as the leading edge.
She commented that the reasons the City would not include General Industrial Districts
with these allowances doesn't make sense. In addition, she doesn't understand the
connection with outside storage and why that would prohibit cocktail rooms. She stated
that the ordinances are written far too narrow for what she sees as the vision for this area.
She explained that she would not support a Second Reading without changes that
incorporate her thoughts.
Councilmember Miller stated that he would like to add cocktail rooms and distilleries to
the General Industrial District. He would like to make a motion that these types of
businesses would be allowable in the General Industrial District. Mayor Spano stated
that for consistency's sake, this change should also apply to taprooms. Mr. Mattick
stated that the point is taken; however, adding taprooms was not discussed at the public
hearing so it would have to be a different ordinance because this proposed change has not
been presented.
In response to Councilmember Hallfin's request for clarification, Mr. Walther explained
that currently microdisterillies are allowed in the zoning district under the ordinance but
cocktail rooms are not presently allowed. Councilmember Hallfin stated that he agrees
with Councilmember Mavity in that he would like to see cocktail rooms in this area.
Additionally, he doesn't see that outdoor storage is an issue.
Councilmember Brausen suggested that the issue can be addressed by adding a cocktail
room as a conditional use. Councilmember Sanger expressed her agreement with
Councilmember Brausen's suggestion. Councilmember Sanger suggested that rather than
amending the ordinance tonight, the Council could pass the First Reading and review this
change for the Second Reading so the decision could be better informed.
Councilmember Lindberg stated that he agrees with Councilmember Mavity in part, but
also agrees with some of Councilmember Brausen's and Councilmember Sanger's
suggestions. He commented that it would be beneficial to have the discussion and give
the public a chance to weigh in.
Councilmember Miller stated he would like to add a conditional use as Councilmember
Brausen suggested because microdisterillies are new to the City and the Council does not
Imow how these businesses might affect the area.
City Council Meeting -10- March 21, 2016
Mr. Walther explained the approval process of a conditional use and the effect on
businesses. Councilmember Mavity stated that she does not want to make it more
difficult to do business in this area. Rather, she explained that she wants to make it easy
to invest.
Councilmember Sanger stated that while she understands the need to move this along, she
would like to allow staff to come up with some restriction so the small business won't be
hindered.
Mayor Spann stated his concern about having two sets of rules for similar uses:
mierodistillery versus taprooms. He stated he is inclined to listen to staff's direction on
this issue.
Councilmember Sanger asked if staff could structure this as a permit with conditions to
address residential proximity. Mr. Mattick stated the possibility exists; however, the
conditions would have to exist in advance.
Councilmember Mavity stated that she cannot support that option because it does not
address the immediate or long -tern goal and hinders other businesses already created.
Councilmember Brausen replied that is why he suggested a Conditional Use Permit
because one size doesn't fit all. Councilmember Mavity stated she does not want create
additional hoops for small businesses to jump through.
Mr. Harmening asked the Council for definition and to think about what adding a
Conditional Use Permit process for this type of use would accomplish.
It was moved by Councilmember Mavity, seconded by Councilmember Miller, to approve
the First Reading of an Ordinance amending the zoning ordinance relating to distilleries
and cocktail rooms, and to set the second reading for April 4, 2016
The motion passed 6-1. (Councilmember Brausen opposed.)
8f. 2016 - 2017 Law Enforcement Labor Services, Inc (LELS) Local #220 (Public
Safety Dispatchers) Labor Agreement. Resolution No. 16-049
Ms. Deno presented the staff report regarding the 2016 - 2017 Law Enforcement Labor
Services, Inc (LELS) Local #220 (Public Safety Dispatchers) Labor Agreement. This
agreement includes two years of wages and this patten mirrors the contract with the
City's maintenance group.
It was moved by Councilmember Sanger, seconded by Councilmember Lindberg, to adopt
Resolution No. 16-049, approving a Labor Agreement between the City and Dispatch
Union, establishing terms and conditions of employment for two years, from 111116 —
12131117.
9. Communications
In response to Councilmember Sanger's question about the start date for yard waste
pickup, Ms. Deno responded April 4, 2016.
City Council Meeting 11- March 21, 2016
Councilmember Miller stated that Maggie's Farm Theater is opening a new show in a
few weeks at the Lenox Little Theater called True West. In addition, the library is
offering a program on Thursday night called "Dialogues in the Park," which is a
community forum about issues to improve opportunity and prosperity.
10. Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:40 p.m.
Meliss Kennedy, City Clerk