HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018/02/05 - ADMIN - Minutes - City Council - Regularfff St. Louis Park
MINNESOTA
OFFICIAL MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
FEBRUARY 5, 2018
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, Rachel Harris, Anne
Mavity, Thom Miller, and Margaret Rog.
Councilmembers absent: None.
Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Harmening), City Attorney (Mr. Mattick), Community
Development Director (Mr. Barton), Engineering Director (Ms. Heiser), Operations &
Recreation Director (Ms. Walsh), Economic Development Coordinator (Mr. Hunt),
Communications Manager (Ms. Larson), Sr. Engineering Project Manager (Mr. Sullivan),
Project Engineer (Mr. Wiesen), Transportation Engineer (Mr. Manibog), Fire Chief ( Mr.
Koering), Environmental and Sustainability Coordinator (Ms. Pine), and Recording Secretary
(Ms. Pappas).
Guests: Ryan Griffin, ESC Chair; Lukas Wrede, Abby Finis, St. Louis Park High School Roots
and Shoots student members.
Ia. Pledge of Allegiance
1b. Roll Call
2. Presentations — Recognitions and Donations
Mayor Spano announced and thanked the following for their donations:
o Brian and Sidonia Johnson, Patrick and Melanie Padden, Richard and Jill Johnson
for the amount of $2,200 for a bench at Westwood Hills Nature Center honoring
Dick Johnson's 90th birthday. Councilmember Hallfin stated that Mr. Johnson is a
former Park and Recreation Commissioner and a volunteer at the Nature Center.
o Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) for a donation of all travel
expenses allowing three Police Department staff to attend the annual educational
trip to the Holocaust Museum in Washington, DC, on April 24, 2018.
3. Approval of Minutes
3a. City Council Special Study Session Minutes January 8, 2018
Councilmember Rog noted on page 6, paragraph 2 it should read, ..... and added a memo
by the HRC re body worn cameras had been shared with council last year that will lead
to good discussion when it comes before council. "
Councilmember Mavity noted on the bottom of page 1 it should read: "the zoning code
as it relates to the windows along the street in order to see into developments to make
them pedestrian friendly. "
City Council Meeting -2- February 5, 2018
Councilmember Mavity noted on page 2 it should read, "...she will however be involved
as it relates to traffic and access issues along Monterey where the city is separately
proposing new improvements. "
Councilmember Mavity noted on page 4 it should read, ...... how much the project can be
value -engineered to bring down costs... "
Councilmember Brausen noted on page 4 it should read, "Councilmember Brausen stated
that in recent years a lot of money has been spent on community amenities along the
Excelsior Boulevard and Highway 100 corridors of the city and it's not unreasonable to
see some resources invested in developing some community facilities on the west side of
the city, including in Ward 4. The Nature Center is such an opportunity. "
Mayor Spano noted on page 5 it should read, ...... it would be a disservice to the people
who have been involved in the process. "
It was moved by Councilmember Mavity, seconded by Councilmember Rog, to approve
the January 8, 2018 Special Study Session Minutes with changes
The motion passed 7-0.
3b. City Council Minutes January 16, 2018
It was moved by Councilmember Hahn, seconded by Councilmember Mavity, to
approve the January 16, 2018 City Council Meeting Minutes as presented.
The motion passed 7-0.
3c. City Council Special Study Session Minutes January 16, 2018
It was moved by Councilmember Mavity, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to
approve the Special Study Session Meeting Minutes as presented.
The motion passed 7-0.
4. Approval of Agenda and Items on Consent Calendar
4a. Accept for filing City Disbursement Claims for the period of December 23,
through January 26, 2018.
4b. Moved to 8e.
4c. Approve a contract with Hennepin County Healthcare System that amends the
original medical direction contract related to dispensing Nalaxone and or other
lifesaving interventions by St. Louis Park Fire Department EMT's.
4d. Adopt Resolution No. 18-016 approving a Minor Amendment to the approved
Planned Unit Development.
4e. Adopt Resolution No. 18-017 approving acceptance of a monetary donation from
Brian and Sidonia Johnson in the amount of $732.50, Patrick and Melanie Padden
in the amount of $732.50 and Richard and Jill Johnson in the amount of $735 to
be used at Westwood Hills Nature Center for a bench in honor of their father and
father-in-law, Dick Johnson's 90th birthday.
City Council Meeting -3- February 5, 2018
4f. Adopt the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the City of St. Louis
Park and the City of Edina.
4g. Adopt Resolution No. 18-018 authorizing removal of parking restrictions on the
east side of Wooddale Avenue from 100 feet to 140 feet south of W. 40th Street.
4h. Adopt Resolution No. 18-019 authorizing installation of parking restrictions on
the north side of Excelsior Boulevard between Kipling Avenue and 36 % Street.
4i. Adopt Resolution No. 18-020 approving acceptance of a monetary donation from
the Jewish Community Relations Council to allow three police department staff to
attend their annual educational trip to the Holocaust Museum in Washington DC
on April 24th, 2018.
4j. Moved to 8f.
4k. Approve for filing Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes of
June 7, 2017.
41. Approve for filing Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes of
August 23, 2017.
4n. Approve for filing Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes of
October 2, 2017.
Councilmember Brausen requested that Consent Calendar item 4b and 4j be removed and
placed on the Regular Agenda to 8e and 8f.
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Hallfrn, to
approve the Agenda and items listed on the Consent Calendar as amended to move
Consent Calendar items 4b and 4j to the Regular Agenda as items 8e and 8f and to
waive reading of all resolutions and ordinances.
The motion passed 7-0.
5. Boards and Commissions
5a. Approve Appointment of Youth Representative to Environment &
Sustainability Commission
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen seconded by Councilmember Harris, to appoint
Katherine Christiansen to the Environment and Sustainability Commission for the term
ending August 31, 2018.
5b. Approve appointment of Youth Representative to Parks and Recreation
Advisory Commission.
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Miller, to
appoint Rachel Sulzer to the Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission for the term
ending August 31, 2018.
6. Public Hearings
6a. 2018 Pavement Management Project (4018-1000). Resolution No. 18-021
Ms. Heiser provided an overview of the Living Streets Policy and the Climate Action
Plan, noting that this year's project will include recommendations related to the goals of
City Council Meeting -4- February 5, 2018
these policies, including sidewalk installation; traffic management; street narrowing; tree
preservation; and storm water management. She explained that at Vision 3.0 listening
sessions, residents expressed the importance of sustainability.
Mr. Wiesen presented the staff report. He noted that the annual Pavement Management
Project rehabilitates several miles of local residential streets. This year, the project is
located in Pavement Management Area 6 - in the Elmwood, Brooklawns, and Brookside
Neighborhoods. Street rehabilitation work consists of removing and replacing the
existing bituminous pavement and replacing portions of concrete curb and gutter as
needed. Other work includes water main replacement and storm and sanitary sewer
repairs. Mr. Weisen gave more detail about the project and discussed design
considerations, street widths, and improvements. He stated that two open houses were
conducted with residents.
Mr. Manibog described the traffic study that was conducted, based on the neighborhood's
feedback from a meeting in February 2017. Data was collected regarding access to the
neighborhoods; traffic in and out; volumes; speed and weight of vehicles. He noted that
temporary traffic controls were installed from August—November, 2017. Traffic was
monitored, and adjustments were made mid -study. The findings of the study showed
reduction/elimination of cut -through traffic on private property and vehicle speed and
volume reduction on Brunswick Avenue. He also noted that there was not an increase in
cut through traffic from Oxford to Excelsior and mixed results related to speed on
Zarthan Avenue. Mr. Manibog pointed out recommendations, including installing traffic
circles on Brunswick Avenue, along with three curb extensions. Additionally, Aldersgate
Church would have pavement closures; Oxford Avenue would be converted to a two-
way; Wooddale would be restriped to include a left turn lane; and an all -way stop would
be included at Oxford and Zarthan Avenues. Mi•. Marribog also noted that parking
modifications would occur at 36th Street and Brunswick Avenue, along with parking
modifications near Nordic Ware and 7onny Pops. He also noted that the crosswalk on the
west leg of the 36" and Alabama intersection met criteria for a marked crosswalk, and the
two -ton signage would be removed as it is no longer needed.
Mr. Wiesen stated that the total cost for the project is $5.5 million, and if approved, the
project will begin in late April and be completed in November.
Mayor Spano opened the public hearing.
Nathan Walker, 3900 Zarthan Ave. S., stated that he is opposed to the sidewalk plan and
the impacts on parking with the narrowing of 39`h Street. He asked the council not to
approve the installation of sidewalks on Alabama and Zarthan. He requested that the
council approve narrowing 391h Street from Alabama to Zarthan to 28 feet, and installing
5 -foot wide versus 6 -foot wide sidewalks, noting that 5 -foot wide will still accommodate
snow removal equipment and will still be ADA compliant. He also asked the council to
preserve parking on the south side of 39`h Street.
Dale Tatarek, 5826 Cambridge St., stated that he has watched pedestrians on Zarthan at 6
a.m. and stated that there are very few walking there at that time. He also counted cars,
adding that there are low numbers. He pointed out that it is unnecessary to put sidewalks
there since there are low numbers of pedestrians and cars. He added he is concerned
City Council Meeting -5- February 5, 2018
about narrowing the streets as was done in Sorenson Neighborhood. While it is supposed
to slow traffic, it actually makes it more hazardous, with more safety concerns.
Brad Benson, 5900 West 39th St., stated that that he believes the truth is not being told
about Oxford Avenue. He stated that eight residents spoke to staff at a meeting in
September regarding driving down a two-way Oxford Avenue, adding that there is no
way two cars could pass. He added that it would be difficult for one car to pass and
harder still for a fire truck to pass, regardless of two- or one -side parking. He stated at the
meeting Chief Harcey stated that it was not safe. He said that parking on one side has not
been proposed or presented by the city in any communications and is not the final plan. It
seems the city is trying to keep this plan secret, while residents in Elmwood are being
kept in the dark. He stated this plan will impact residents who live on Oxford.
Rick Boyd, 3904 Zarthan Ave., stated he has lived in St. Louis Park for 49 years and has
walked to work at Minnesota Rubber for 36 of those years. He stated he walked with his
kids in the street for many years, with no sidewalks. He stated that the city does not do a
good job of plowing, and he would rather walk in the street. I -Ie stated that he is not in
favor of putting in more sidewalks when the city does not take care of the ones that
already exist. He added that the bridge over Highway 100 on Excelsior is a city plowed
bridge, but many times his wife has walked over it, and it is not plowed.
Roger Cruse, 3953 Xenwood Ave., stated that he lives close to Excelsior Boulevard. The
last proposal he saw showed that Xenwood will be narrowed. He noted that if the street is
narrowed, it will be very crowded, and he has concerns about cars making it through the
street without being damaged. He stated that garbage and fire trucks are too wide, and it
will be difficult for them to get through when cars are parked on both sides. He stated that
it will be a less secure and safe street, and it would be very hard for him to get out of his
driveway, especially with snow. Mr. Cruse added that these issues will be much worse
with the street at 28 feet wide, and he asked the council to approve maintaining the 3900
block of Xenwood at 30 feet.
Eric Knutson, 3764 Brunswick Ave., stated that he has been to most of the neighborhood
meetings, and he did not hear anyone say they approved. He asked why this is moving
forward if residents do not want it. With narrower streets, bikers could get hit by opening
car doors or hit from behind. He stated that this project is a waste of taxpayer money: It is
redundant and is a bad design.
Christopher Daniels, 5901 Cambridge Ave., asked if any of the council members live in
Elmwood Neighborhood. Mayor Spano stated that he lives close. Mr. Daniels stated that
he loves the Elmwood Neighborhood and moved there 15 years ago. He stated that his
kids learned to ride their bikes there, and he is afraid for them riding bikes there if the
proposed changes go through. He is opposed to the narrowing of streets. He is also
opposed to the two-way on Oxford and asked why the council wants to calm traffic when
it is currently calm. He added that there will be an increase in traffic if Oxford becomes a
two way, and it will not be calm. He stated that the council was wise 32 years ago when
they made Oxford a one- way street.
Marty Hiebe, 5820 Cambridge St., agreed with those who spoke before him, stating that
the addition of sidewalks in a quiet neighborhood seems like a waste of taxpayer dollars.
City Council Meeting -6- February 5, 2018
He stated that $5.5 million is a lot of money and added it would be better to pick a gravel
alley each year and pave it.
Larry Lessly, 3965 Brunswick Ave., stated that his wife got 24 signatures on a petition,
and no one in the neighborhood is interested in sidewalks. Even if sidewalks were put in,
folks would still walk in the street.
Susan Bloomgren, 3961 Brunswick Ave., stated that she is in opposition to sidewalks.
She stated that she was at the neighborhood meetings and heard staff say it is cheaper to
do it now versus later. She added that sidewalks are not needed, so why add them at all.
She stated it does not make sense to add sidewalks only because it is cheaper to do it
now.
J.W. Sterit, 1525 Goodrich Ave., stated that this is a reckless plan. While he appreciates
staff s approach, narrowing would be catastrophic and would break the flow of the street.
He stated that some newer studies show that narrowing streets do not necessarily make
them safer. He added that narrowing makes no sense.
Adebisi Wilson, 5826 Goodrich Ave., stated that she lives with her husband and two
children and has concerns with Oxford becoming a two-way street. She stated that she
understands the study shows a marginal increase in traffic, adding if this is the case, then
the street should be kept as one-way, especially since it is near a park. She suggested
putting all traffic on Alabama, adding that she believes the neighborhood traffic circles
were hastily added on Zarthan at the end.
Bob Tift, 3800 Brunswick Ave., stated that he has lived in St. Louis Park for 29 years and
raised 4 sons in the neighborhood. He stated that he loves the neighborhood and formed
the fust neighborhood association with John Basil. He said that he understands this plan
is to improve infrastructure. It is staffs job to make recommendations to the council,
adding that they have been fair and transparent. He stated that there has been plenty of
opportunity for neighborhood feedback, and he believes the council has the best interests
of the area in mind. He is fully supportive of moving forward, adding that he trusts the
city engineers in this process. They have done a great job.
David Dahl, 3977 Brunswick Ave., stated that he feels this will be a sidewalk to nowhere
but is interested in the fiber optic being installed during this project. He stated that he
opposes the sidewalk on Brookside and does not think sidewalks are needed. He asked
that the council delay the project to look at building sidewalks that make more sense.
Ryan Griffin, 4980 West 40"' St., stated that he has two children that attend Kid Zone day
care center, which is walkable from his home. He added that he does not live in the area
being discussed tonight; however, he is in favor of the connectivity of sidewalks in St.
Louis Park. He stated that sidewalks add value to homes and asked why streets should be
wider than they need to be. He noted that the biggest safety issue is vehicle speed, and
anything that can be done to calm traffic would be beneficial. He asked people to look at
other ways to make streets safer, adding that he appreciates the efforts to save trees in the
city, also, and sees them as a valuable asset. He stated that he is in full support of this
plan.
City Council Meeting -7- February 5, 2018
Katherine Teaking, 3091 Yosemite Ave., agreed that there is very little foot traffic along
39th between Yosemite and Xenwood. She asked if it is worth the expense to put
sidewalks in this area and noted that if the street near her is narrowed, and a sidewalk is
added, she doesn't know where the snow will go. She asked if there will be an added
expense to clear and haul snow out of that area.
Joel Coleman, 5900 Cambridge St., stated that he is recently new to St. Louis Park and
bought a house in Elmwood. I -Ie stated he loves the neighbors. It is a small neighborhood
with little traffic. He stated that he looks forward to having his kids grow up there and
hopes the narrowing of the street and two-way traffic will not make it hard for him to get
out of his driveway, with more cars to deal with.
Steve Flatten, 5901 Oxford, has lived here for over 30 years, and stated that the two-way
will be a big mistake. He added that he sees lots of cars roll through the stop signs, also.
Andrew Meyer, 3974 Brunswick Ave., stated that this will be a sidewalk to nowhere, and
he highly recommends dropping this piece. He stated that he has lived here for 39 years,
and it has never been a problem. Why not fix the bridge over Highway 7 instead.
Noelle Racette, 4900 Vallacher Ave., stated that 20 different people have spoken on this
issue tonight, and only 3 are in favor of it. She stated that she would request that the
council not decide on this tonight.
Brad Benson, 5900 West 39th St., stated that he has concerns about the fire station with
this plan and suggested that there be a better way to exit from Highway 100. He stated
that the city is waiting for S WLRT, not knowing if it will ever happen.
Mayor Spann closed the public hearing.
Councilmember Mavity stated that this has been a year and a half process, adding that she
has had many conversations with residents on this project. She added that the vision has
been to have more walkable neighborhoods, stating also that there is a distinction
between permanent infrastructure improvements, and traffic controls that can be changed
along the way. Councilmember Mavity stated that she supports closing the Aldersgate
road because it is a public road that empties into private space. And closing Aldersgate
makes her want to support a two-way on Oxford in order to allow residents another way
into their neighborhood. She added that she will rely on the recommendations of the
engineers to slow traffic on Brunswick. Councilmember Mavity added that she supports
the tree canopy there and recommends removing the short segment of sidewalk on
Dakota. She stated that regarding 39th Street, she would like to be flexible about
narrowing sidewalks to 5 feet if needed to preserve trees and allow residents to park in
their driveways, adding that narrowing streets will be essential for people to use their
own driveways. She noted that all of these decisions are being made for the next 50 —100
years, so we need to think to the future on this project. Councilmember Mavity noted that
the tree canopy and retaining trees on Zarthan Avenue are important. She also supports
walkability along Zarthan. She pointed out that the infrastructure will allow future
changes to reduce the amount of traffic there. She also noted that she supports having
sidewalks at Goodrich and Colorado and asked staff consideration to include a curb cut to
connect to the sidewalk across the street.
City Council Meeting -8- February 5, 2018
Councilmember Brausen stated that he appreciates all the residents' concerns, adding that
change in neighborhoods is always difficult. He stated that even though there has been
opposition to sidewalk projects over the years, since sidewalks have been added in
various areas, residents do love and use them. They walk and stop to talk to their
neighbors. He stated that sidewalks are necessary to move people, and roads are
necessary to move bikes and cars and for parking. Living Streets is about making the
whole community livable. He stated that he is totally supportive of this plan and asked
the residents opposed to it, to give it a chance.
Councilmember Hallfin stated that the city does a pavement management project every
year in different areas, and sidewalks are a part of the project scope. He pointed out that
the council listens to residents' comments and appreciates people coming to the meeting,
adding that the council will make adjustments to the project. He added that the majority
of people who were initially opposed to sidewalks are in favor of them once they are
installed. He asked everyone to give the plan a chance.
Councilmember Harris stated that staff has received direction from council to narrow
streets, add sidewalks, and make changes in conjunction with the Living Streets Policy,
which will help to connect people.
Councilmember Miller expressed his concern regarding the recommended parking
restrictions on streets narrowed to less than 28 feet wide, specifically on 39th from
Alabama to Webster and on Zarthan from 39t" to Oxford, as it is a hardship to not be able
to park a car in front of a person's own house. He added that there are other streets within
the city that were less than 28 feet wide and have parking allowed on both sides of the
street.
Ms. Heiser confirmed Councilmember Miller's statement regarding existing streets.
It was moved by Councilmember Miller, seconded by Councilmember Rog, to amend the
project to allow parking on both sides of the street on 39th from Alabama to Webster and
on Zarthan from 39'h to Oxford - segments 926, 28, 30, 39, 41, 43, and 45.
Councilmember Brausen and Hallfin spoke against the motion, supporting staff
recommendations to restrict parking. Mavity felt that this action should not be taken until
staff could take a closer look at the policy to sign streets less than 28 feet wide as one
side no parking. Councilmember Harris agreed that staff should have an opportunity to
review the policy and get back to the council before taking action on the parking
restrictions.
Ms. Heiser indicated that staff would need time to do a complete inventory of all of the
streets within the city to catalogue street widths and parking restrictions. This information
could then be reviewed by the Fire, Police and Operations & Recreation Departments and
reported back to the council with staff recommendations.
The motion did not pass 2-5 (Councilmembers Rog Mavity, Halm, Harris, Brausen
opposed).
Councilmember Miller stated that he has been to many of these neighborhood meetings,
adding that many people won't speak at a public hearing because they do not want to
City Council Meeting -9- February 5, 2018
differ from their neighbors. He noted that the council is trying to understand the balance.
He thanked staff for their incredible job working with neighbors.
Councilmember Rog stated that she supports this project and read all the neighbors'
comments. They did have an impact. She also acknowledged those neighbors who had
some fear of speaking out tonight and understands it is a very emotional issue.
Mayor Spano thanked the residents for speaking. He noted that he lives in Brooklawn and
is familiar with the challenges in the area. He thanked staff and expressed appreciation
for their work. He agreed that some people who did not approve of sidewalks in their
neighborhoods, are now very happy with them. He stated that the council understands the
concerns of the neighbors; however, he noted that many more people would walk if
sidewalks were available to them. He stated that he will support this plan, and asked
residents to continue to engage the council.
It was moved by Councilmember Mavity, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to adopt
Resolution No. 18-021, accepting the project report, establishing the 2018 Pavement
Management Project (4018-1000) approving plans and specifications, and authorizing
advertisements for bids, along with removal of sidewalk segments #15 and 96; adding a
curb cut for sidewalk segment 419; and flexibility on narrowing sidewalks to 5 feet to
accommodate parking in driveways on #39 through #45.
The motion passed 7-0
7. Requests, Petitions, and Communications from the Public — None
8. Resolutions, Ordinances, Motions and Discussion Items
8a. Climate Action Plan. Resolution No. 18-022
Ms. Pine presented the staff report. She noted that the Climate Action Plan was
developed in partnership with the Environment and Sustainability Commission; iMatter;
additional community volunteers; and city staff. At the study session on January 29,
2018, the city council directed staff to move ahead with formal adoption of the plan.
Mr. Griffin stated that St. Louis Park is embarking on becoming a leader in climate
action, because progress is not being made on a national level. He stated that the cost of
not doing anything at this time is human health, air pollution, and transmittable diseases.
He added that 2.5% of cardiovascular issues are related to carbon emissions, with the
elderly and children most affected.
Mr. Wrede stated that it has been two years since the climate resolution was adopted by
the council, noting that it is the most aggressive in the state and puts St. Louis Park on a
national level. He stated that the Roots and Shoots organization is doing amazing things.
They are stakeholders in the CAP. He said he is not worried about St. Louis Park in years
to come as students will continue the work. He added that he knows the council shares
the students' vision, and he thanked them. Mr. Wrede stated that the students are here to
help the council and the city on this initiative, and to make this shared vision and goal a
reality together.
City Council Meeting -10- February 5, 2018
Mr. Griffin stated that the Climate Action Plan goals include climate neutrality by 2040
and 100% renewable electricity by 2030.
Councilmember Brausen noted that this is a far-reaching and very challenging plan, with
goals and strategies to reduce emissions. He stated that climate neutrality is a big step,
which will require us all to make changes. He added that government can lead, but we all
have to do our part. While it won't be easy, it is time to change for the sustenance of the
planet. He stated that he supports the CAP. It is the right thing to do.
Councilmember Miller thanked everyone for developing the CAP, especially the
students. He added that the city will look to the students to carry this into the future, as
they will inherit this earth. He noted the hard part will be making the CAP a reality,
especially when discussing costs. He stated that incentives will need to be put in place,
and residents and businesses will need to play large roles.
Councilmember Harris thanked all involved and said that the Climate Action Plan is
exciting. She commended the youth and the Environment and Sustainability Commission,
who started with Partners in Energy, Mr. Griffin, and Ms. Cindy Olson O'Neil. She also
thanked Ms. Pine for her staff work. She agreed with Councilmember Miller that
choosing to move forward on the CAP is the easy part. She looks forward to working
alongside the council and residents to make this a reality.
Councilmember Rog thanked the adults and youth involved, agreeing that the CAP is a
priority for our future. She stated that she looks forward to aligning the council's
decisions around climate action, adding that community education will be very important.
Councilmember Mavity agreed that today's vote is easy, adding that the youth helped the
city council see what is needed. She stated that the hard part will be making decisions to
move the CAP forward, adding that the city council will need to be kept accountable. She
added that additional creativity is needed moving forward, as well.
Councilmember Hallfin thanked the group, stating that the former two chairs of the
Environment and Sustainability Commission are now on the council — Councilmembers
Brausen and Harris. He stated that there is a reason that the council takes this all very
seriously, and we need to move forward now.
Anna Casper stated that she supports the Climate Action Plan and thanked everyone for
their time. She stated that she will continue to help leading the way and create her own
legacy related to the CAP.
Katie Christiansen, 8812 W 35`h St., a new member on the Enviromnent and
Sustainability Commission, thanked the council for recognizing this issue and challenged
the residents of St. Louis Park to be part of the initiative.
Patty O'Keefe of the Siena Club, and a St. Louis Park High School graduate, stated that
she supports the Climate Action Plan and the approach of the council listening to young
people. She stated this will be a model for other cities around the state. She and the Siena
Club support adding more language and ideas to be sure the implementation of the plan is
equitable. She thanked the youth and Roots and Shoots, adding that she is so proud of St.
Louis Park.
City Council Meeting -11- February 5, 2018
equitable. She thanked the youth and Roots and Shoots, adding that she is so proud of St.
Louis Park.
Judy Checker, 2260 Ridge Drive S., 432, wrote a letter read by one of the students. Ms.
Checker stated that she applauds and thanks the students, and has great pride in St. Louis
Park's leaders. She also asked for implementation to be equitable.
Steve Oman, 4121 Forest Rd., Forest Lake, works in the solar power industry and is a
solar garden subscriber and a believer in renewable energy. He stated that incentives are
good but are not gaining momentum yet. He added that convincing St. Louis Park
residents to subscribe to solar will require leadership and will be a great opportunity.
It was moved by Councilmember Mavity, seconded by Councilmember Harris, to adopt
Resolution No. 18-022, approving the Climate Action Plan for the City of St. Louis Park.
The motion passed 7-0.
8b. Construction of Fastpitch Fields at Aquila Park. Resolution No. 18-023
Ms. Walsh presented the staff report. She noted that construction will begin as soon as
weather permits, with the goal to seed the site in August or early September of 2018.
New fields will not be played on until fall of 2019.
Councilmember Brausen noted that he still opposes this project and will be voting against
it.
Councilmember Miller thanked staff for working on grants for this project and the
softball association for doing a large amount of fundraising to create this softball
complex for the city's girls, adding that he sees this as a gender equity issue.
Councilmember Rog stated that she is very happy to vote for this project and
congratulated the association on their perseverance.
Councilmember Hallfin stated he will also support this project.
Councilmember Harris stated she is appreciative that the city will be adding facilities for
girls' sports, adding that the city may want to consider leasing the fields in the future for
high school teams to use.
Mr. Harmening added that there will be a neighborhood meeting related to the
conditional use permit for this project on February 13 at 6 p.m. at the Municipal Service
Center on Oxford Street.
It was moved by Councilmember Miller, seconded by Councilmember Mavity, to adopt
Resolution No. 18-023, establishing and approving plans and specifications, and
authorizing advertisement for bids for two fastpitch fields at Aguila Park
The motion passed 6-1 (Brausen opposed.)
City Council Meeting -12- February 5, 2018
8c. Preliminary Development Agreement between the EDA, the City and
Sherman Development Associates LLC. Resolution No. 18-024
Ms. Barton noted the staff report in the packet for council review and offered to answer
questions.
Councilmember Mavity recused herself from the vote.
It was moved by Councilmember Hallfin, seconded by Councilmember Miller, to adopt
Resolution No. 18-024, approving the Preliminary Development Agreement between the
EDA, the City, and Sherman Associates LLC.
The motion passed 6-0-1. (Councilmember Mavity abstained)
8d. Second Reading of Ordinance Amending Home Rule Charter Related to
Campaign Finance Contributions. Ordinance No. 2530-18.
Councilmember Mavity stated she will support this ordinance amendment; however, she
reiterated her concerns about parts of the charter that are inconsistent with state law. She
added that she would appreciate staff continuing to look into this.
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Hallfin, to adopt
Ordinance No. 2530-18, amending the St. Louis Park Home Rule Charter Sec. 12.04
related to Campaign Finance Contributions.
The motion passed 7-0.
8e. Resolution for a Limited Use Permit with the Minnesota Department of
Transportation (MnDOT) for a Pedestrian Trail and Bikeway within the
Right -of -Way of Highway 7 along Wooddale Avenue. Resolution No. 18-025
Councilmember Brausen wanted to address this issue as it is in process.
Councilmember Mavity noted the sight lines, stating that she wants to be sure they are
exquisitely correct, and that staff will watch out for this.
Mr. Harmening stated this will be reviewed again by staff.
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Mavity, to adopt
Resolution No. I8-025, approving a Limited Use Permit with the Minnesota Department
of Transportation (MnDOT) for a Pedestrian Trail and Bikeway within the Right -of -Way
of Highway 7 along Wooddale Avenue.
The motion passed 7-0.
8f. Resolution Revising Resolution No. 17-196 Limiting the Number of Off -Sale
Intoxicating Liquor Licenses Issued in St. Louis Park. Resolution No 18-026
Councilmember Brausen stated he had asked that this be moved off the consent agenda as
it is currently on a moratorium to study whether additional limits are needed, and wants
City Council Meeting -13- February 5, 2018
to gather public comment on it. He stated that he does not support this resolution, which
limits the number of off -sale intoxicating liquor licenses issued in St. Louis Park.
It was moved by Councilmember Mavity, seconded by Councilmember Hallfin, to adopt
Resolution No. 18-026, revising Resolution No. 17-196 limiting the number of off -sale
intoxicating liquor licenses issued in St. Louis Park.
The motion passed 5-2. (Councilmembers Brausen and Miller opposed)
9. Communications
Councilmember Hallfin noted the Children First breakfast on March 1 at the Doubletree
at 7 a.m.
Councilmember Harris noted the upcoming community clean up event on Feb. 11, from
2-4 p.m,
Councilmember Rog noted two events: a Q & A event at City Hall with the Charter
Commission on Feb. 13; and, an open house at the Nature Center on Feb. 27-28
regarding the proposed new center.
Mayor Spano noted that the Minnesota Wild Hockey Team will have an outdoor practice
at The ROC on Sunday Feb. 11 from 11 —11:45 a.m.
10. Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 11:10 p.m,
Meliss Kenne y, City Clerk