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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2017/12/18 - ADMIN - Minutes - City Council - RegularOfSt. Louis Park MINNESOTA 1. Call to Order Mayor Spano called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. OFFICIAL MINUTES CITY COUNCIL MEETING ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA DECEMBER 18, 2017 Councilmembers present: Mayor Jake Spano, Tim Brausen, Steve Hallfin, Gregg Lindberg, Anne Mavity, Thom Miller, and Susan Sanger. Councilmembers absent: None. Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Halmening), City Attorney (Mr. Mattick), Inspections Director (Mr. Hoffman), Fire Chief (Mr. Koering), Deputy City Manager/Human Resources Director (Ms. Deno), Engineering Director (Ms. Heiser), Operations & Recreation Director (Ms. Walsh), CFO (Mr. Simon), Economic Development Coordinator (Mr. Hunt), Community Development Director (Ms. Barton), Senior Engineering Project Manager (Mr. Shamla), Project Coordinator (Mr. Amatuccio), Westwood Hills Nature Center Manager (Mr. Oestrich), and Recording Secretary (Ms. Pappas). Guests: Nancy Blankford, Architect; Martha Ingram, EDA Attorney la. Pledge of Allegiance 1b. Roll Call 2. Presentations 2a. Introduction and Welcome of New CERT Members Fire Chief Koering introduced Justin Grays as the newest member of the CERT Team, bringing the total number of CERT members to 27. He explained that the CERT Team is a group of volunteers who are trained for emergency preparedness to assist citizens and help first responders gather information following a disaster. Additionally, CERT members are a resource for any community events where volunteers are needed. Chief Koering stated that the goal is to consistently have a team of 40 active CERT members in place. Councilmember Brausen thanked Chief Koering for the wonderful job being done with the CERT Team. He thanked all the CERT team members for their ongoing work and Mr. Gray for his willingness to serve. Chief Kocring stated that residents who are interested in serving on the CERT Team should check the city and/or Fire Department websites, or call the department coordinator or the Chief himself at Fire Station #1. 3. Approval of Minutes 3a. City Council Special Study Session Minutes December 4, 2017 It Naas moved by Councilmember Lindberg, seconded by Councilmember Haluiin, to approve the December 4, 2017 Special Study Session Meeting Minutes as presented City Council Meeting -2- December 18, 2017 The motion passed 7-0. 3b. City Council Minutes December 4, 2017 It was moved by Councilmember Lindberg, seconded by Councilmember Sanger, to approve the December 4, 2017 City Council Meeting Minutes as presented. The motion passed 7-0. 4. Approval of Agenda and Items on Consent Calendar 4a. Approve the second reading and Adopt Ordinance No. 2529-17 amending the Solid Waste Management code and to approve the Ordinance Summary for publication. 4b. Adopt Resolution No. 17-189 to recognize Police Lieutenant Lori Dreier for 26 years of service. 4c. Authorize execution of a professional services contract with SRF Consulting Group, Inc. in the amount of $134,396.00 for the Mobility Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan Update. 4d. Adopt Resolution No. 17-190 accepting work and authorizing final payment in the amount of $82,121.04 for the Fixed Network Water Meter Replacement Project with Ferguson Waterworks - Project No. 5015-0001, City Contract No, 91-15. 4e. Adopt Resolution No. 17-191 authorizing execution of a contract with Summit Envirosolutions for 2018 consultant services related to the implementation of the Reilly Tar & Chemical Corporation (Reilly) Consent Decree/Remedial Action Plan (CD/RAP). Councilmember Brausen noted 'item 4e related to a consulting contract for Reilly Tarpit, and asked if this information will be available on the city website. Mr. Harmening stated that it will be added to the website. It was moved by Councilmember Lindberg, seconded by Councilmember Hallfin, to approve the Agenda as presented and items listed 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. 2018 Hopkins Street and Utility Improvement Project (4018-1101) Public Hearing. Mr. Shamla explained the proposed street rehabilitation project scope, including improvement on Cambridge Street, Oxford Street, Lake Street, Murphy Avenue and the alley south of Lake Street. Hopkins and St. Louis Park staff have also identified Texas Avenue and Division Street for rehabilitation. Mr. Shamla added that the project includes sidewalk reconstruction and miscellaneous utility rehabilitation, along with installation of a bikeway connecting to the Cedar Lake Regional Trail. City Council Meeting -3- December 18, 2017 Councilmember Mavity stated that some neighbors have submitted a petition objecting to parts of this project. She asked if the project is a package deal or if it will be handled piece by piece. Mr. Shamla stated that the bike lanes on Texas Avenue between Highway 7 and Lake Street were approved by the council in February, 2017. He added that tonight's public hearing is about the proposed sidewalks, while the roads themselves will remain the same. Mayor Spano opened the public hearing. Nick Steen, 3729 Texas Ave. S., stated that the proposed sidewalk will go right through his front yard, and he would be losing multiple trees. He stated that it doesn't make sense, especially if the root system of his maple tree is damaged. He added that he would lose 11 feet of his driveway. He said that he will not be able to park in the street and wondered where visitors would park. lie stated that if a sidewalk is installed, it needs to be at the curb line and not in residents' yards. He noted that Hopkins does not have sidewalks and asked why St. Louis Park needs them. He has lived in his home for 15 years and does not like the idea of losing his driveway and yard to a sidewalk. Mark Bord, 7922 Division St., stated that he lives on the corner of Division Street and Texas Avenue and has been there 20 years. He added that he grew up in St. Louis Park and has lived here for over 60 years. He agreed with Mr. Steen, stating that his house will be 10 feet from the sidewalk. Even if trees are replaced by the city, it will take years for new trees to grow to the current size of the trees in his neighborhood. He added that walking traffic down Texas Avenue is minimal, and sidewalks are not needed. He stated that sidewalks will bring the property values down, and he will lose 11 feet of his driveway. He asked the council to vote "no" to installing sidewalks, and added he that was not notified about the bike paths. He stated that there is never much bike traffic on his street either. Emmy Lenzen, 3831 Texas Ave. S., stated that she lives on the corner of Lake Street and Texas Avenue, and initially was against this project. However, over time she changed her mind about it and is looking at it for the greater good of safety for the many kids and pets in the neighborhood. Because of this, she now supports the sidewalks. It uvas moved -by -Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Movity, to continue the public hearing regarding establishing Improvement Project No 4018-1101 for the Rehabilitation of Texas Avenue and Division Street to January 2, 2018. The motion passed 7-0. 6b, On -Sale Intoxicating and On -Sale Sunday Liquor License for ResBiz, LLC dba Blue Fox Indian Bar & GrilI. Ms. Deno stated that the city received an application fiom ResBiz, LLC to become the new owner of Blue Fox Indian Bar & Grill. The existing restaurant, located at the West End, has been in operation since 2015 and the current owner has reached an agreement to sell the business to ResBiz, LLC. She noted that the Police Department conducted a full background investigation and nothing was discovered that would warrant denial of the license. City Council Meeting -4- December 18, 2017 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 Miller, to approve On -Sale Intoxicating and On -Sale Sunday Liquor License for ResBiz, LLC dba Blue Fox Indian Bar & Grill, located at 5377 W 10 St., for the license term through March 1, 2018. The motion passed 7-0. 6c. CMS Lodging Services Inc. dba Courtyard Minneapolis West — On -Sale Intoxicating and On -Sale Sunday Liquor License. Ms. Deno stated that the city received an application from CSM Lodging Services, Inc., dba Courtyard Minneapolis West, for an on -sale intoxicating and on -sale Sunday liquor license for the property located at 9980 Wayzata Blvd. She noted that the Police Department conducted a full background investigation and nothing was discovered that would warrant denial of the license. 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 Lindberg, to approve CMS Lodging Services Inc. dba Courtyard Minneapolis West for an On -Sale Intoxicating and On -Sale Sunday Liquor License for the premises located at 9980 Wayzata Blvd with a license term through March 1, 2018. The motion passed 7-0. 7. Requests, Petitions, and Communications from the Public — None 8. Resolutions, Ordinances, Motions and Discussion Items 8a. 2018 Budget, Final City and HRA Property Tax Levies, and 2018-2027 Capital Improvement Plan. Resolution No. 17-1.93, Resolution No. 17-194, and Resolution No. 17-195 Mr. Simon presented the 2018 final property tax levy, which is a 4.9% increase over the 2017 tax levy. He noted the HRA levy allowed by state statue at 0.0185°/x, and the 2018 Budgets for General, Enterprise, Special Revenue, and select Capital Project funds. Additionally, Mr. Simon noted the 2018-2027 Capital Improvement Plan. He noted the city's AAA credit rating, which ensures the lowest interest rates based on bond sales, and the fact that the CIP plan is updated annually, and tied into the long-range financial plan. Councilmember Brausen stated that he sees this as a responsible budget, which continues to pay staff wages and provide benefits and high-quality services to the citizens of St. Louis Park. He added that the city continues to reinvest in valued community assets and amenities. He supports this budget and the very transparent and vigorous process staff has provided. City Council Meeting -5- Councilmember Hallfin agreed. December 18, 2017 Mayor Spano stated that during the budget process, staff takes direction from council and then develops the budget, working to keep the levy as low as possible. He added that this is the third year in a row the final levy has decreased. It is a testament to good planning, a good credit rating, and sound fiscal work by staff. It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Sanger, to adopt Resolution No. 17-193, approving 2018 Budgets and authorizing the 2018 Final Property Tax Levy; to adopt Resolution No. 17194, Authorizing the 2018 Final HRA Levy; and, to adopt Resolution No. 17-195, Approving 2018-2027 Capital Improvement Plan. The motion passed 7-0. Sb. Westwood Hills Nature Center Project — Schematic Design. Ms. Walsh presented the staff report. Mr. Harmening stated that in 1993 the police station was replaced. In 1997 the Rec Center was upgraded and the water park built. Next the city park buildings were replaced, and in 2009 an addition was built on the Municipal Service Center. Additionally, two fire stations were replaced, City Hall was remodeled, and the Council Chambers was recently remodeled. Mr. Harmening explained that the Westwood Hills Nature Center is now the last major community facility that needs replacing. It is used a lot and is fast becoming obsolete and in need of improvements. He noted that the council reviewed the Nature Center in 2015 and asked staff for a master plan. This evening the schematic design will be viewed, and the ongoing design plan will be reviewed by the council over time. Ms. Walsh stated that this is the beginning of the process, and staff is asking the council for approval of the schematic design this evening. Ms. Blankford explained the plans and design, noting that parking will be closer to the building. The floor plan will include several staff, public, exhibit and multipurpose classroom areas. She also noted the zero energy goals of the developments which will include solar energy use and energy reduction estimates at 47%. Mayor Spano stated that he would prefer staff bring this project back for discussion sooner rather than later, so that the new council members can review it and voice their opinions, as well. Councilmember Brausen stated that he is excited to support this project and sees it as an investment for the community. He noted that there have been 9 council meetings and at least 12 public meetings, in a variety of forums and community listening sessions. He added that the project features the council's priority of environmental sustainability and is another step in this deliberate process. He stated that while he is concerned about tax increases, this project, with all its environmental considerations, is a bold step, models best practices, and is a way to demonstrate the values of the community. Councilmember Brausen added that the visioning process calls for this improvement to the center, and he looks forward to further public discussion. City Council Meeting -6- December 18, 2017 Councilmember Sanger agreed with Councilmember Brausen's comments in terms of the center's environmental importance. She added that the current building is falling apart, and it is less expensive to demolish it and build a new one. She said that it is the right step to take, and it will draw people from all over the metro area. She stated that she will support the schematic design plans. Councilmember Mavity agreed, noting that she will support the schematic design plans for all the same reasons. She stated that there will be much public engagement in this project. Councilmember Hallfin said that he also supports the plans. He stated that he takes the recommendations from the Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission seriously and has been to several of their meeting related to this project. He is looking forward to moving ahead with this project. Councilmember Miller thanked the commission and staff for this plan, but opposed the schematic design, even though he supports the project. He agreed that the nature center is in rough shape; however, he has learned since being on the council that it costs a lot to run and maintain a city. He added that affordable housing, the arts, and climate action plans are areas of concern, as well as the Texa-Tonka neighborhood. He would like to advocate prudence on how the city spends money. He stated that he would like to see more design options that spend half the amount, and he wants to understand more about the long-term financial impacts of the project. He stated that he would like to see alternatives to this schematic design when it comes back to the council in 2018. Councilmember Lindberg stated that as a lifetime resident of St. Louis Park, he considers the Westwood Hills Nature Center as one of the special assets of the community. He stated that the schematic design works, and he thanked Mr. Oestreich and staff for all the work they do at the center. He stated that the center appeals to the city's core values and ensures leadership in environmental standards. He is happy to support the schematic design. Mayor Spano added that he also supports the schematic design, noting that in a recent meeting with other mayors, it was noted how the nature center is very well liked and attended by residents of adjacent communities. He added that the other mayors stated Westwood Hills Nature Center is one of the things that makes St. Louis Park unique. He stated that he wants to proceed with the design. He would also like to ensure that the classrooms will be used, and he encouraged staff to reach out to school districts in the area to confirm that. Mayor Spano also pointed out that if the zero energy is included, this would be the first commercial building in the state that would be a zero energy building. It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Sanger, to approve the Schematic Design for the Westwood Hills Nature Center project and direct staff to move forward to the Design Development phase, The motion passed 6-1. (Councilmember Miller opposed) City Council Meeting -7- December 18, 2017 8c. Off -sale Intoxicating Liquor. Resolution No. 17-196 Ms. Deno presented the resolution which limits the number of off -sale intoxicating liquor licenses issued in St. Louis Park. She stated that the city currently has 15 licenses, 14 of which are active and 1 which is not operating at this time. Councilmember Mavity stated that this is an important issue, and she will want to revisit it with the new council to look at developing a new policy. Councilmember Brausen stated that he will oppose this resolution, stating that he would like the free market to determine the number of off -sale establishments, adding that consumers are best served by choice, selection, cost, and size of store. He stated that he is not in favor of a moratorium. Councilmember Sanger agreed, stating that she will oppose this resolution. She is in favor of letting the market decide the number and size of liquor stores that are in St. Louis Park. She added that the council just approved two new liquor licenses this evening, and there is no evidence of a problem. Councilmember Miller agreed with Councilmembers Brausen and Sanger, stating that it feels like the council is crossing the line into commerce and picking winners and losers. It is not the council's responsibility to do this. He added that he does not see this affecting the health and well-being of the city, and he will not support it. It was moved by Councilmember Mavity, seconded by Councilmember Halffin, to adopt Resolution No. 17-196, limiting the number of off -sale intoxicating liquor licenses issued in St. Louis Park. The motion passed 4-3. (Councilmembers Sanger, Brausen and Miller opposed) 8d. Special Assessment for Water and Sewer Availability Charges. Resolution No. 17-188 - - Ms. Barton presented the staff report. She stated Paul Revere Masonic Center LLC, owner of the commercial building at 6509 Walker St., has requested the city to authorize a special assessment for the water and sewer availability charges due for the planned new tenant, the American Legion, and to assess the cost against the property. Ms. Barton stated that staff recognizes this is a special situation, and if approved by council, staff will write a policy to bring to council at a future meeting, to address any future requests for assessments of SAC and WAC charges. It was moved by Councilmember Miller, seconded by Councilmember Mavity, to adopt Resolution No. 17-188, authorizing special assessment for Water and Sewer availability charges (WAC and SAC) for Paul Revere Masonic Center, LLC at 6509 Walker St., St. Louis Park, MN The motion passed 7-0. City Council Meeting -8- December 18, 2017 8e. Resolution Accepting Annual City Manager Evaluation. Resolution No. 17- 197 Ms. Deno presented the staff report. Mayor Spano provided the summary of the City Manager evaluation for 2017. He stated that after a very robust 360 review process, he is pleased to say again that St. Louis Park has a great City Manager, noting all of the very positive comments. He stated that Mr. Harmening is universally respected by council, staff and residents, who appreciate the level of respect he offers them, as well. He added that Mr. Harmening's average score was 4.68 out of 5, confirming that our City Manager is competent, professional and cares about the community, staff and residents he serves. Mr. Hatmening commented that it is a privilege to work for the City of St. Louis Park, and he looks forward to continuing to do so. It was moved by Councilmember Lindberg, seconded by Councilmember Sanger, to adopt Resolution No. .17--.197, formal acceptance of the final City Manager annual evaluation. The motion passed 7-0. 8f. 2018 Non -Union Employee Compensation. Resolution No. 17-198 Ms. Deno stated that the recommendation for 2018 non-union employee compensation is as follows: Approve 3% standard adjustment to compensation plan for non-union employees, allowing for regular progression through pay ranges Adjust pay range for City Manager to allow movement through the range consistent with non-union and set formula in compliance with salary cap. Approve continuation in the Volunteer Firefighter Benefit Program. It was moved by Councilmember Lindberg, seconded by Councilmember Sanger, to adopt Resolution No. 17-198, confirming a 3% general increase for non --union employees effective 1/1/2018; approving the City Managers salaryfor 2018, and continuing participation in the Volunteer Firefighter Benefit Program. The motion passed 7-0. 8g. Recognition of Councilmembers Gregg Lindberg & Sue Sanger Mayor Spano, on behalf of the city council and City Manager, recognized Gregg Lindberg for his years of service as a member of the St. Louis Park City Council representing Ward 3 from January 6, 2014 to January 2, 2018, Mayor Spano, on behalf of the city council and City Manager recognized Sue Sanger for her years of service as a member of the St. Louis Park City Council representing Ward 1 from August 7, 1995 to January 2, 2018. City Council Meeting -9- December 18, 2017 Mayor Spano and all the councilmembers thanked outgoing Councilmembers Lindberg and Sanger for their work and friendship over their respective years of service and wished them well in their future endeavors. 9. Communications — Written Reports 9a. NOAH Preservation Workshop — Update 9b. November 2017 Monthly Financial Report 10. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 9:25 p.m. Jnt PA A- "A f F Melissa ennedy, City Jerk Spano yor