HomeMy WebLinkAbout2006/12/11 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - City Council - Study SessionCity Council Study Session
December 11, 2006
6:30 PM
Council Chambers
Discussion Items
Approximate
Times
1. 6:30 p.m. 2007 Legislative Initiatives
2. 7:30 p.m. Highway 100 Reconstruction (Full Build) Project
3. 8:30 p.m. Duke Development Update
Written Items
4. Vision Goals and Action Steps
5. 2007 – 2011 CIP
6. Car Allowance
9:15 p.m. Adjourn
Auxiliary aids for individuals with disabilities are available upon request. To make
arrangements, please call the Administrative Services Department at (952) 924-2525 (TDD
(952) 924-2518) at least 96 hours in advance of meeting.
City Council Study Session
Discussion Item: 121106 - 1 - 2007 Legislative Priorities
Page 1
1. Legislative Issues and Priorities for 2007 Administrative Services
PURPOSE OF DISCUSSION:
To advise the Council about current legislative issues in preparation for the 2007 legislative
session. The Council and legislators will have an opportunity to discuss these issues and
concerns at the meeting on December 11.
BACKGROUND:
Hennepin County Commissioner Gail Dorfman, Steve Simon, State Rep. District 44A, Ryan
Winkler, State Rep-Elect District 44B and Senator-Elect Ron Latz, District 44 are attending the
December 11, 2006 study session to discuss the upcoming 2007 Legislative session.
Staff has prepared the attached preliminary list of issues and concerns that we feel should be
made known to the City Council and our legislators. This report has changed slightly from the
report submitted on December 4; included are items 5 – 7, which touch on future transportation
funding requests, capital bonding projects for future consideration and other legislative issues
you should be aware of. As in previous years, as we near the start of the session and we hear
from you, additional issues may come to light.
It has been our practice to retain lobbying services to help us with legislative and regulatory
issues. Administrative Services has interviewed four excellent firms, and while it was a tough
decision, we have selected the firm of Rider Bennett, Doug Franzen and Vic Moore for this year.
Their biographies are attached. Mr. Franzen and Mr. Moore have been invited to the meeting
Attachments: 2007 Legislative Issues and Priorities
Bios for Doug Franzen and Vic Moore
Prepared By: Marcia Honold, Management Assistant
Approved By: Tom Harmening, City Manager
City Council Study Session
Discussion Item: 121106 - 1 - 2007 Legislative Priorities
Page 2
City of St. Louis Park
2007 Legislative Issues and Priorities
1. Glencoe Switching Yard
Purpose: To secure the remaining $2 million in funding ($3 million project) from Federal, state,
local and private entities to relocate the Twin Cities & Western Railroad’s train blocking
operations to a new facility outside of the cities of Minnetonka, Hopkins and St. Louis Park.
Status: A 2006 capital budget request in the amount of $700,000 was approved during the last
legislative session, and $300,000 in local matches are secured. Senators Norm Coleman and
Mark Dayton have set aside $1 million for this project in the Senate’s transportation bill. The
request is not in the House’s version of the bill but staff is hopeful that it will be included in the
final version, which will be reconciled after January 4, 2007. Assuming that the Federal request
is approved, the project still needs an additional $1 million to proceed.
Background: In 2001, the St. Louis Park Railroad Advisory Task Force recommended that the
Twin Cities and Western Railroad’s (TC&W) blocking operations be eliminated in St. Louis
Park, Hopkins and Minnetonka and relocated to a new switch yard west of the three cities. The
TC&W blocking operations generate noise levels that exceed the state of Minnesota nighttime
noise standards. In addition, the switching operations cause vibrations and they often disrupt
local transportation systems because at-grade crossings are temporarily blocked by trains
conducting switching operations.
The Glencoe Railroad Congestion Mitigation Project, located in the City of Glencoe, involves
constructing four siding tracks to accommodate the anticipated amount of rail car
maneuvering/switching operations at this new facility. It is a nine acre site and the City of
Glencoe was selected as the preferred site for a switch yard because it would consolidate
operations, it would provide for noise mitigation for residents in Glencoe (existing rail car
maneuvers would be relocated to the west or east side of town), and it would provide
opportunities for economic development.
Anticipated project costs of $2,962,000 to $3,000,000 for the yard include the land acquisition
and design costs. Proposed funding sources include $2.7 million of federal and state funds, and
$300,000 from a local match e.g. cities, railroad etc. The site will be owned by the McLeod
County Rail Authority and be operated by TC&W. Construction start date, assuming funding is
secured, is planned for September 2008; the yard is expected to be fully operational by the fall of
2009.
2. Grade Separated Crossing at Hwy 7 and Wooddale
Purpose: To secure an additional $9 million to construct an $18 million grade separated
intersection (interchange) at Highway 7 and Wooddale Avenue.
City Council Study Session
Discussion Item: 121106 - 1 - 2007 Legislative Priorities
Page 3
Status: A 2006 state capital budget request in the amount of $1 million was not funded.
However, $5.8 million in Federal aid was secured through the Metropolitan Council’s TAB
process in March 2006. More than $3 million in right-of-way purchases have been completed by
the city at its cost and initiative in anticipation of this project.
Background: This project will require a combination of local, county, state and Federal dollars to
finance the reconstruction of the at-grade intersection of Highway 7 and Wooddale Avenue in St.
Louis Park to a grade separated intersection.
Currently, the capacity and safety of this at-grade signalized intersection could be characterized
as poor at best. Based on a recent traffic analysis, the intersection is currently operating at a
level of service D, and is projected to decrease to a level of service F by 2007. MnDOT staff
have identified significant safety (crash) concerns in this corridor (Hwy 7 from Hwy 169 to Hwy
100) with the east half of the corridor of particular concern.
This intersection is utilized frequently on a daily basis by our Fire Department to respond to calls
for service (Station No. 1 is located just to the south). Pedestrians and bicyclists currently use
this intersection to access mass transit, the regional trail system, the community center, and the
High School. In addition, significant traffic as a result of redevelopment and from an adjacent
industrial/commercial complex to the south also uses this intersection as a major access point.
This project is of both local and regional significance. This project will allow for the separation
of regional and local traffic which will vastly improve the regional transportation systems. The
regional systems alluded to are Hwy 7, the Southwest LRT Regional Trail immediately to the
south, and the proposed future dedicated bus way or LRT system. Currently, as part of Hennepin
County’s Southwest Corridor transit study, a transit station is proposed adjacent to the
intersection of Hwy 7 and Wooddale. Without this intersection improvement project, these other
regional systems will likely not be possible or the operation of existing ones will continue to
worsen due to congestion and safety concerns. In addition, future anticipated renewal and
redevelopment in the area will be stifled. Reconstruction of this intersection to a grade separated
intersection is the only practical long term solution to this infrastructure problem.
3. TH 100 Full Build Project
Purpose: To keep the TH 100 Full Build Project on track for its’ proposed 2014 build date (or
sooner via MVST monies) and to identify future funding sources for the city’s expected
significant financial contribution to the project.
Status: MnDOT completed construction of the TH 100 interim project this fall, which provided
a third lane in each direction through St. Louis Park. MnDOT is in final design phase of the
project and the full build is scheduled for bid letting in 2014. The full build project is on
MnDOT’s advanced design list, so with the passage of the MVST amendment, it could be let as
early as 2009. The project will cost approximately $150 million, of which St. Louis Park may be
expected to contribute up to an estimated $10 million. The city will need assistance to fund this
expected share of this project of regional significance.
City Council Study Session
Discussion Item: 121106 - 1 - 2007 Legislative Priorities
Page 4
Background: MnDOT spoke to the Council in March 2006 and while they would not make a
written commitment, MnDOT reassured the city that the construction of the interim project
would not delay the full build project. The interim project added a third lane in each direction by
decreasing lane widths from 12 feet to 11 feet and eliminating or severely reducing shoulders
along that stretch of highway. The third lane is required for the full build project so that MnDOT
can keep a minimum of two lanes open in each direction during construction.
Improvements not included as a part of the interim project include construction of the noise
walls, which MnDOT agreed to construct no later than 2015, width expansion of lanes,
construction of on/off ramps, and bridge and storm water improvements. Bridges spanning TH
100 at Hwy. 7 and Hwy 5, and storm sewers conveyance systems have no more than 10-15 years
of useful life left and are deteriorating. In addition, there are approximately 20 residents who
live in uncertainty because their homes are within the future right-of-way of the new project.
4. Levy Limits
Background: Any move to mandate levy limits is a concern. If the legislative session outcomes
contain levy limits, then the formula used to calculate the limits needs to be reviewed. The
formula used in the past results in St. Louis Park having an extremely limited ability to even
account for inflationary increases.
5. Transportation Funding Increases
Background: In general the City of St. Louis Park needs increased revenues to support the two
street systems we own and maintain; the Municipal State Aid system (MSA) which comprises
20% of our street mileage and our local street (residential) system which is the remaining 80% of
the mileage we own.
The MSA system is funded primarily by the State. Increasing statewide transportation funding
(via gas tax, license tab fees, motor vehicle sales tax revenues) will increase MSA funding for
the City of St. Louis Park. The local street system is funded 100% by property taxes or special
assessments, of which neither method is necessarily preferred by residents / taxpayers.
The other area the City of St. Louis Park struggles with is advancing improvements to the State
transportation system in our community. State revenues have not kept pace with state
transportation needs and improvements in our community have been significantly delayed due to
the lack of state funding (TH 100, TH 7, and Transit).
Solutions:
Provide increased funding for our MSA system (20% of our city streets)
o This can be via a gas tax increase, MVST transfer, increase in vehicle registration
taxes, provisions for a wheelage tax, and special funding for cities burdened with
excessive cost participation responsibilities.
Transportation Authority - enabling legislation to provide local funding options, such as
explicit authority to impose street utility fees, which would allow cities to raise the
dollars necessary to adequately fund local roads (80% of our city streets) and transit.
Full funding of state transportation projects and special state funding to local agencies for
regional transportation purposes.
City Council Study Session
Discussion Item: 121106 - 1 - 2007 Legislative Priorities
Page 5
6. Future Capital Budget Requests (2008 Legislative Session?)
Background: The following two pedestrian / trail connections are important to our community.
We would request that these be included in any future special funding bills considered by the
legislature:
• Pedestrian / Trail bridge over the BN RR @ Hwy 100 and Cedar Lake Road - $3,000,000
(100% of total estimated costs; construct 2014; currently unfunded)
• Pedestrian / Trail bridge over the BN RR @ Hampshire Ave - $3,000,000 (100% of total
estimated costs; construct 2009; currently unfunded)
In addition to the projects discussed earlier in this report, the following two regional
transportation projects are important to our community. We would request that these be included
in any future special funding bills considered by the legislature:
• SLP - Hwy 7 and Louisiana Ave intersection improvement project - $20,000,000 (100%
of total estimated costs; construct 2011-2012; currently unfunded)
• SLP - Wooddale Ave bridge over Hwy 100 improvement project - $10,000,000 to
$15,000,000 (100% of total estimated costs; construct dates TBD; currently unfunded)
7. Other Legislative Issues
Background: There is a possibility this session for introduction of a Bill further regulating the
collection of permit fees by cities and counties. The fees charged for construction (building,
mechanical, plumbing, etc.) and development permits are currently intended to cover the total
cost of providing related services as provided for in Statute.
For the past few years each city has been required to submit an annual report of
development/permit fee revenue and the cost of providing the services. The fee reporting was
the result of legislation supported by the Builders Association of Minnesota (BAM), following
several years of complaints from its members about lack of responsive service relative to the fee
paid in some jurisdictions. Unfortunately, many cities/counties have not been submitting annual
reports and others possibly not seriously considering the importance of submitting accurate
revenue/cost reports. Using information from the fee reports, BAM brought suit against two
cities for collecting excess fees. Both have now settled but with very different results. In
summary, one city increased staffing and refined their cost analysis; the other commenced a
large fee study and is lowering many fees substantially.
As a result of the reporting information and outcomes of the lawsuits, legislation may be
proposed to regulate or limit the amount of permit and development fees a city may charge. We
believe that providing responsive service and establishing reasonable fees which include the
entire cost of service delivery is very important. At approximately ten percent of the General
Fund budget, any mandated regulation of the permit fee system could have a serious effect on the
city.
City Council Study Session
Discussion Item: 121106 - 1 - 2007 Legislative Priorities
Page 6
Douglas J. Franzen
Douglas J. Franzen brings to Rider Bennett more than 25 years of experience before the
Minnesota State Legislature, various regulatory bodies and local units of government. Currently,
he represents clients with legal and policy concerns in diverse areas including insurance, health
care, real estate development and outdoor recreation.
Named one of Minnesota’s “Top Lobbyists” by Minnesota Law and Politics, Douglas has earned
a significant reputation as a legislative lawyer through successful lobbying efforts on behalf of a
variety of clients before federal, state and local policy-making bodies and regulatory agencies.
Douglas has assisted clients in securing significant funding for major projects including the
Minneapolis Convention Center, expansion of neighborhood empowerment zones and the
Guthrie Theater. In the areas of health care and insurance, he provides ongoing representation to
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota, Allstate Insurance Company, and American Family
Mutual Insurance. Additionally, he acts as regulatory counsel to numerous insurers; providing
assistance with enforcement, licensing and admission, and policy matters. Douglas has been
involved in significant real estate developments, representing clients in matters including zoning,
historic preservation, tax increment financing and negotiations of development agreements.
Successful projects include LaSalle Plaza (which houses the Historic State Theater) in downtown
Minneapolis and the Tower Place expansion of Park Nicollet medical campus in St. Louis Park.
Admitted: Minnesota, 1979, United States District Court, District of Minnesota
Practive Grops: Legislative and Regulatory, Real Estate
Education: William Mitchell College of Law, J.D., University of Minnesota, B.A., London
School of Economics, Graduate Research Program
City Council Study Session
Discussion Item: 121106 - 1 - 2007 Legislative Priorities
Page 7
Vic A. Moore
PROFILE: Dedicated, successful results-oriented government executive with broad state
experience in the legislative and executive branches. Strengths include comprehensive
knowledge of state government budgeting, extensive high-level negotiating skills, major political
fundraising, candidate recruitment, and personnel supervisory skills as chief of staff for
leadership office and Senate staff.
President, The Capitol Advantage
January 2003 to present. Provides governmental relations, lobbying and consulting services to
clients that have issues before the state legislature.
Executive Director of the Senate Committee on Rules and Administration
A.k.a. Chief of Staff for Senate Majority Leader Roger D. Moe, 1990 – 2003. Formal duties
included direct supervision of Majority Leader’s Office staff, director of Office of Fiscal Policy
Analysis and director of Senate Majority Research, as well as indirect supervision of additional
partisan Senate staff. Significant informal duties included date-to-day management of the Senate
Legislative Agenda, ongoing strategic advice and counsel to the Majority Leader on key policy
and budgetary decision, and administrative and personnel responsibilities pertaining to all Senate
employees.
Executive Assistant to the Senate Majority Caucus
Minnesota State Senate, 1985-1990. Second-in-command duties included assisting the Senate
Majority Leader with legislative, policy and political concerns pertaining to the Senate DFL
caucus.
Leadership Assistant to Senate Majority Leader Roger D. Moe
Minnesota State Senate, 1981-1984. Leadership Assistant to Senate Majority Leader Roger D.
Moe. Duties included constituent services, and general legislative assistance to the Senate
Majority Leader.
Planning Director of the Minnesota State Planning Agency
Minnesota State Planning Agency, 1978-1981. Manager of the state’s Regional Planning
Assistance Program, working closely with local units of government and supervisor of eight state
planners.
Education
Master of Science Degree in Urban and Regional Studies
Mankato State University, Mankato, Minnesota, 1973
Bachelor of Science Degree in Government
St. John’s University, Collegeville, Minnesota, 1972
City Council Study Session
Discussion Item: 121106 - 2 - Hwy 100 Reconstruction (Full Build) Project
Page 1
2. Highway 100 Reconstruction (Full Build) Project
Public Works
PURPOSE OF DISCUSSION:
To provide the City Council cost implications associated with local access / transportation
options available to the community in the W. 26th Street area as well as answer any questions the
Council may have regarding the project at this time. Mn/DOT staff will be in attendance at the
meeting.
BACKGROUND:
On January 28, 2002 Mn/DOT staff formally introduced this proposed project to the Council.
Subjects discussed were project goals, design concepts, cost participation, project schedule, and
public involvement. As a result of that Study Session, Mn/DOT and City staff arranged a Public
Informational Meeting on May 14, 2002 at Benilde-St. Margaret’s High School to inform the
public about this proposed project. The draft preliminary geometric layout, on display on 2nd
floor in City Hall, was presented to the public for review and comment at that meeting.
Mn/DOT had various staff in attendance at the meeting to explain the proposed project and
answer questions.
Prior to the Public Informational Meeting, the City hosted a special meeting in April just for
residents along the west side of Toledo Avenue north of W. 28th Street. They were told that most
of their residences would probably be acquired due to this project. Concern was expressed by
residents over acquisition costs, relocation, necessity to remain in the Fern Hill Neighborhood,
and the project schedule. Mn/DOT staff attended the meeting to provide right of way acquisition
and relocation information as well as to answer any other questions that were asked.
Later in 2002 Mn/DOT determined the project needed to be delayed due to a lack of state
funding. Work on the project was discontinued until 2005 when Mn/DOT staff was directed to
develop an Interim Project aimed at congestion mitigation on this section of Highway 100. As a
part of the recently approved Interim Project on Highway 100, Mn/DOT evaluated the
operational aspects of the draft preliminary geometric layout which had been developed during
2002 and determined it had several fatal flaws that would have to be addressed when the Full
Build Reconstruction Project was restarted. Finally, during the development and approval
process of the Highway 100 Interim Project Mn/DOT designated the Highway 100
Reconstruction (Full Build) Project as an “advanced design project” and committed to
developing the project so plans are ready for letting in 2009 if sufficient new funding is
available. This project is currently funded for a late 2014 letting.
During February of this year Mn/DOT resumed the design process for this project. Their effort
to date has been to revise the preliminary geometric layout to eliminate the fatal flaws discovered
last year; the proposed preliminary geometric layout will be available at the meeting Monday
evening.
Because of necessary access changes, options for local access to Highway 100 and a possible
underpass in the W. 26TH Street area are now possible. These options, identified as Options 1 –
4, were presented and discussed at the June 26th study session. A fifth option, not to construct an
underpass, is also available for consideration (similar to the proposed preliminary geometric
layout described immediately above). Copies of Options 1 - 4 will be available at the meeting
Monday evening.
City Council Study Session
Discussion Item: 121106 - 2 - Hwy 100 Reconstruction (Full Build) Project
Page 2
DISCUSSION:
Mn/DOT has requested comments on the revised layout and Council direction on the underpass /
access options they developed for the W. 26TH Street area. Once Mn/DOT receives city
comments / direction, they will finalize the preliminary geometric layout. Their plan at this time
is to complete the preliminary geometric layout, hold a public informational meeting, revise the
layout based on public comments (as appropriate), and then begin the Municipal Consent
Approval process during 2007.
Options 1 – 4 with the proposed underpass were developed by Mn/DOT last June to address city
staff concerns regarding limited local access and expected future transportation needs. Without
enhanced access and an improved street system in this area, staff is concerned future local
transportation needs will not be met and long-term redevelopment will be limited. Based on
Council feedback last summer, Mn/DOT has evaluated an additional underpass located at
Parkwoods Road. At this time there are four basic underpass locations that Council will be
asked to consider and comment on:
1. W. 26th Street Hwy 100 - raised 21’ Est. local cost: $5.2 to $7.8 million
2. W. 25 ½ Street Hwy 100 - raised 21’ Est. local cost: $5.2 to $7.8 million
3. Parkwoods Road Hwy 100 - minimal change Est. local cost: $3.5 to $4.5 million
4. Existing (W. 23rd St) Hwy 100 - no change Est. local cost: $0.8 to $1.2 million
It should be noted the elevation changes to Highway 100 are only for those locations and options
shown. The last option (#4) basically provides for the continued existence of the W. 23rd Street
underpass but with Highway 100 raised about 12 feet through the W. 26th / W. 25 ½ Street area
in order to shift stormwater runoff from the Twin Lakes basin south to the Bass Lake area. Also,
the estimated local costs shown above have been provided by Mn/DOT as a good faith estimate
of our costs associated with Highway 100 and include Utica Avenue reconstruction, SLP utility
relocations, and signal participation costs. Right of way, if needed, and bicycle / trail costs
remain to be determined.
Once the full build project is approved and completed, future improvements to Highway 100 for
access or redevelopment purposes will be at City cost and will, frankly, be cost prohibitive. It
appears the decisions made in the near future and the plans that will be approved will set the
direction for a large area of the community for a long time into the future. The issues and
concerns in deciding this will need to be carefully evaluated and discussed.
QUESTIONS:
1. How should underpass options be considered by the City and feedback provided to
Mn/DOT?
2. Does funding preclude the more expensive underpass options?
3. What right of way or bike / trail costs might the City be responsible for?
4. What, if any, traffic analysis information will be needed in deliberating these options?
5. What process and schedule is Mn/DOT considering to seek preliminary layout approval?
Prepared By: Michael P. Rardin, P.E., Public Works Director
Approved By: Tom Harmening, City Manager
City Council Study Session
Discussion Item: 121106 - 3 - Duke Development Update
Page 1
3. Duke Development Update Community Development Department
PURPOSE OF DISCUSSION:
The purpose of this discussion is to update the City Council on the status of the Duke plans for
development of the southeast corner of Highways 394 and 100 and in particular focus on ideas
surrounding public and private gathering and open spaces.
BACKGROUND:
We are continuing to work with Duke Realty on a development plan for the land in between
Highway 394, Highway 100, Park Place Boulevard and Gamble Drive (please see attached map)
that will be consistent with the emerging Vision for St. Louis Park. With the existing buildings,
the site encompasses approximately 48 acres, with approximately 30 to be redeveloped. We have
shared with Duke the plan guidelines that were discussed at the November 13th Council Study
Session as well as the Councils comments and additional guidance from that meeting.
Public and Private Gathering and Open Spaces:
One aspect of the Duke development plan of particular importance is the public and/or private
gathering and open spaces. These spaces will provide a connection for the community to the
project and contribute greatly to establishing the area’s character. Gathering places is also one of
the key elements of the updated Vision St. Louis Park. We want to ensure that the Duke
development plan is part of making that vision a reality.
The purpose of our discussion is to explore ideas for gathering places/open spaces. We will also
look to the city’s Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission and the results of the community
vision process for guidance. The goal is to begin to define what these places should be.
To assist us in achieving that goal we have invited Barry Warner, a landscape architect with SRF
Consulting, to attend the council study session. Barry has been helping us in facilitating
conversations with Duke. Parks and Recreation staff will also attend. Other input will be sought
as we move forward too. This is a start in that process.
Attached is a matrix provided by SRF Consulting showing a spectrum of public and private
spaces. This matrix shows the variations of public and private ownership, sizes of spaces, type
of facilities and programming to expect, and maintenance responsibilities. It is intended to aid
the discussion about what would be appropriate in this development and area of the city.
The questions for the Council are: What type of gathering and open spaces would be appropriate
in this area? What communitywide needs could possibly be met in this location? Is it important
that the city has a say in programming or ownership of public or private spaces? How can we
make this space feel a part of St. Louis Park versus just a development in a corner of the
community? How will the capital improvements and on-going operational expenses be funded?
Staff will take comments from the discussion to the Duke Realty team and continue to work
towards an acceptable site plan. It is expected a concept will be ready to review with the City
Council in January.
City Council Study Session
Discussion Item: 121106 - 3 - Duke Development Update
Page 2
Other Duke Project Topics
In other areas, the work continues on several key aspects of the planning process. Of particular
note is the status of the AUAR and the concept plan. Updates on each of those areas are
summarized below.
Alternative Urban Areawide Review (AUAR):
The AUAR is the environmental review for the development area. It looks at a number of
alternative development scenarios to determine what kind and how much development can be
accommodated on a site.
The review includes 5 different scenarios, providing a range of development options (Summary
of Alternatives attached). The analysis is nearly complete, and it is expected that the AUAR
document will be out for formal review on December 18th, with a 30-day comment period. It is
expected that a neighborhood meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 10th. Final City
Council review is tentatively planned for mid-March. A study session to review the AUAR with
the City Council will be scheduled soon.
Concept Plan:
Staff and consultants have been meeting with Duke and its consultants weekly to work out the
general design parameters and details of the site plan.
It is a large site that is currently somewhat isolated from the adjoining neighborhoods; we have
worked hard to promote having the development fit into and connect to surrounding areas. We
have continued to stress creating a strong presence and attractive, human-scale, lively building
façades and pedestrian spaces along Park Place Blvd. and the main street in the development. In
addition we have asked for examples of life-style center projects that incorporate large foot-print
retail uses that are successful gathering places and have upscale retailers.
Duke is expected to illustrate the character of the proposed development and in particular to
show how a large foot-print retail building could be designed to be attractive, human-scaled and
lively. We have required that the Duke development plans incorporate high quality public
spaces, including both green space and interior and/or hard-scaped space – places for events as
well as casual gathering. We have also asked that special efforts be made to find creative
secondary uses for parking structures.
Attachments: Location Map
AUAR Alternatives Description
Civic Space Type Matrix (supplement)
Prepared by: Meg J. McMonigal, Planning and Zoning Supervisor
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
City Council Study Session
Discussion Item: 121106 - 3 - Duke Development Update
Page 3
City Council Study Session
Discussion Item: 121106 - 3 - Duke Development Update
Page 4
ALTERNATIVES DESCRIPTION
Alternative 1 – Duke Master Plan Scenario
Alternative 1 includes the construction of 1,000,000 square feet (SF) of office space (9 to 18
stories); 400,000 SF of retail space (1 to 2 stories); 250 condo units totaling 350,000 SF (4 to 6
stories); and associated parking structures and surface parking totaling up to 6,375 parking
spaces. Alternative 1 would total 1,750,000 SF of redevelopment.
Alternative 1 Square Feet Parking Stalls
Office 1,000,000 up to 5,000
Retail 400,000 2,000
Condo Units (250) 350,000 375
Total 1,750,000 6,375
Alternative 2 – Maximum Build Scenario
Alternative 2 includes the construction of 1,200,000 square feet (SF) of office space (12 to 24
stories); 425,000 SF of retail space (1 to 2 stories); 300 condo units totaling 420,000 SF (4 to 6
stories); and associated parking structures and surface parking totaling up to 7,375 parking
spaces. Alternative 2 would total 2,045,000 SF of redevelopment.
Alternative 2 Square Feet Parking Stalls
Office 1,200,000 4,800
Retail 500,000 2,125
Condo Units (900)
Hotel (175 rooms)
Total 2,120,000 7,375
Alternative 3 – Minimum Build Scenario
Alternative 3 includes the construction of 900,000 square feet (SF) of office space (9 to 18
stories); 350,000 SF of retail space (1 to 2 stories); 200 condo units totaling 280,000 SF (3 to 5
stories); and associated parking structures and surface parking totaling up to 5,650 parking
spaces. Alternative 3 would total 1,530,000 SF of redevelopment.
Alternative 3 Square Feet Parking Stalls
Office 900,000 Up to 4,500
Retail 350,000 1,750
Condo Units (200) 280,000 300
Total 1,530,000 6,550
City Council Study Session
Discussion Item: 121106 - 3 - Duke Development Update
Page 5
Alternative 4 – Hotel Scenario
Alternative 4 includes the construction of 1,000,000 square feet (SF) of office space (9 to 18
stories); 400,000 SF of retail space (1 to 2 stories); 125 condo units totaling 175,000 SF( 2 to 4
stories); 175,000 SF hotel with 125 rooms (up to 6 stories) and associated parking structures and
surface parking totaling up to 6,313 parking spaces. Alternative 4 would total 1,700,000 SF of
redevelopment.
Alternative 4 Square Feet Parking Stalls
Office 1,000,000 4,000
Retail 400,000 2,000
Condo Units (125) 175,000 188
Hotel Rooms (125) 125,000 125
Total 1,700,000 6,313
Alternative 5 – Comprehensive Plan Scenario
Alternative 5 includes the construction of 2,000,000 square feet (SF) of office space with
associated parking structures and surface parking totaling 8,000 parking spaces (4 spaces
required for every 1,000 SF of office space). Alternative 5 would total 2,000,000 SF of
redevelopment.
Alternative 2 Square Feet Parking Stalls
Office 2,000,000 8,000
Total 2,000,000 8,000
City Council Study Session
Written Report: 121106 - 4 - Vision Goals And Action Steps
Page 1
4. Vision Goals and Action Steps Administrative Services
PURPOSE OF REPORT:
To share with City Council the work of the eight Vision Action Teams which includes
goals/action steps/suggested timeline/potential partners.
BACKGROUND:
Each Vision Action Team was asked to analyze the data obtained through the Vision St. Louis
Park Appreciative Inquiry Process. They also called in experts, researched what other
communities are doing and developed goals/action steps/suggested timeline/potential partners
they would like the city and other partners to consider as a way to move over the next 10 years.
ISSUES:
As it did in 1995, the City Council and staff needs to carefully analyze this document. And, just
like in 1995, we should take these recommendations seriously and understand that while we may
not be able to do everything, it is a working document to help us move St. Louis Park into the
future.
These goals/action steps/suggested timeline/potential partners will be discussed at a future study
session.
Attachments: Vision Goals and Action Steps for:
• Arts and Culture (yellow)
• Community Events (blue)
• Diversity (pink)
• Environment (green)
• Gathering Places (ivory)
• Housing (goldenrod)
• Sidewalks and Trails (lavender)
• Transportation (buff)
Prepared by: Bridget Gothberg, Organizational Development Coordinator
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
City Council Study Session
Written Report: 121106 - 5 - 2007-2011 Cip
Page 1
5. 2007-2011 Capital Improvement Program Finance
PURPOSE OF REPORT:
This report is intended to update the City Council on the status of the CIP. There were four
issues brought up by the City Council at its meeting on November 13, 2006 that staff has
addressed below. Staff plans on bringing the CIP to the Council for its approval at its
December 18 meeting.
BACKGROUND:
On November 13 City staff presented the preliminary CIP to the City Council. The projects have
not changed dramatically since last year, and Clint Pires, Mike Rardin, and Cindy Walsh were
available to comment on their particular projects. The City Council did bring up four issues
which are discussed below.
Councilmember Finkelstein identified the need for adult playground equipment in at least some
of our parks. In response to this point Ms. Walsh will ask the Park and Recreation Advisory
Commission to review more adult recreation opportunities outside of the organized adult sports
activities. Because this will take some time to evaluate, the CIP document does not reflect any
change for this coming year. Depending on what we decide to include, it may be possible to add
a couple of items into the existing CIP as part of the playground equipment budget. Staff intends
to include potential options in future CIPs for Council consideration.
Councilmember Finkelstein also brought up the idea of somehow trying to incorporate public art
on our water storage tanks when they are repainted. Public Works staff is sensitive to the visual
impact that water towers have in the neighborhoods. Staff hopes to incorporate public art into
public projects such as water towers after a more clear direction is identified as to where we are
going as a community with public art and our yet to be determined marketing and branding
strategy.
A question was raised as to why the 36th Street Art Corridor project was not included in the CIP.
Staff did not include this initiative in the CIP as we are still uncertain what the elements, budget
and timing of a project might be. Currently, staff is working thru a process with artists on
defining the project further. As staff works through the process, we will have a better idea on the
amount of funding and timing necessary for this project.
Councilmember Sanger asked about upgrades to France Avenue. Since this street is just in the
process of being turned back to St. Louis Park from Hennepin County, staff did not include it in
the 2007 - 2011 CIP. Public Works will incorporate suggested improvements to this street in the
2008 - 2012 CIP.
During the November 13 Study Session staff also pointed out the various significant unfunded
projects noted in the CIP. The unfunded items will be reviewed next year to determine potential
revenue sources. As part of our upcoming long-range financial planning excercise, staff will be
evaluating the impact of various funding scenarios on these projects and the over-all city budget.
We have added one project to the CIP – Wireless. That sheet is attached for your review.
City Council Study Session
Written Report: 121106 - 5 - 2007-2011 Cip
Page 2
At this point staff intends to bring the CIP to the Council for adoption at its December 18
meeting. Prior to that date, please let us know if you have any other questions or comments.
Attachments: Wireless project sheet
Prepared by: Bruce DeJong, Finance Director
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
City Council Study Session
Written Report: 121106 - 5 - 2007-2011 Cip
Page 3
Capital Improvement Program 2007 thru 2011 Contact Clint Pires
City of St. Louis Park, MN Department Technology
Project # TRF-112 Type Equipment
Useful Life 5-7 years
Project Name Park WiFi Construction Category TRF-Network
Priority 2 Very Important
Total Project Cost $3,300,000
Description
This project will fund the construction of a city-wide wireless network.
Justification
The City Council approved the project based on the lack of a private sector solution to
providing low cost data connectivity for all St. Louis Park
residents in the foreseeable future.
Expenditure 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 Total
Construction 3,300,000 3,300,000
Total 3,300,000 3,300,000
Funding Sources 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 Total
EDA Development Fund 3,300,000 3,300,000
Total 3,300,000 3,300,000
Operational Impact/Other
This will be funded through an enterprise fund which anticipates that all operating costs will be
covered by user fee revenues. Two loans from the Development Fund will be repaid over time
as revenues allow. The minimum term will be five years.
Produced using the Plan-It Capital Planning Software Wednesday, December 06, 2006
City Council Study Session
Written Report: 121106 - 6 - Car Allowance
Page 1
6. Car Allowances Administrative Services
PURPOSE OF REPORT:
To provide information on the City’s current policy on providing car allowances to staff and
background information on what other cities provide.
This report is being provided as a result of questions raised earlier this year by Council on the car
allowance provided to certain city staff
BACKGROUND:
Our current City policy on vehicles is in our personnel manual as follows:
15.3 City Vehicles
Certain employees of the City are required to drive a City vehicle to their home and keep it there
while off duty in order to respond to emergency situations, which may include fire and police
protection, civil defense and restoring City services. It may also be necessary to keep a City
vehicle at home for security purposes or business purposes. Such use is assigned and approved
by the City Manager and is typically limited to Chief of Police, Fire Chief and Deputy Fire
Chief.
15.4 Car Allowance
In lieu of mileage reimbursement, the City will provide a car allowance as follows:
• $300 per month for Department Directors
• $250 per month for Manager of Buildings and Structures, Operations Superintendent,
Utility Superintendent, Police Captain and Parks Superintendent
(Car allowance is not eligible to positions assigned take home cars.)
The City Manager has the discretion of eliminating any car allowance given by providing the
individual with a 30 calendar day written notice (Resolution 05-185).
SURVEY
Our market, as determined by Council, is cities in the metro area with a population of 25,000 to
100,000 (Group V cities). A car allowance survey of these cities was conducted and is attached
to this report. As you will see, the results vary by city.
If Council would like to discuss this further, please let us know and we will schedule it for a
study session.
Attachments: Car Allowance Survey – Group V Cities (pop. 25,000 – 100,000)
Prepared by: Nancy Gohman, Human Resources Director/Deputy City Manager
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
City Council Study Session
Written Report: 121106 - 6 - Car Allowance
Page 2
Car Allowance Survey
Group V Cities Population 25,000 - 100,000 Metro Area
City Population $/Month Who
Bloomington 85,172 $235-$175 Varies on position
Department Heads also get an amount added to salary.
Brooklyn Park 71,225 $300 CD/Parks/Eng/Operations
Plymouth 70,238 none
Eagan 67,000 $456.62 PWks & Pks
$320 Adm/CD/Communications
Coon Rapids 62,177 $500 Public Service Dir
Burnsville 61,500 none
Maple Grove 60,000 $275 Pk&Rec Dir
Eden Prairie 60,000 $300 All Department Heads. Some Div Heads also get this amount
when policy changed (grandfathered in)
Blaine 54,000 none
Minnetonka 51,658 $400 City Engineer, CD Dir
$300 Asst City Mgr, Rec Dir, Fin Dir, Planner, Atty
$150 Asst Atty, Assoc Atty
Apple Valley 48,480 $275 Cable Coord, Directors: CD, Fin., Pk & Rec, PWks,
Pk Mtce & PWks Supt, T Mgr, PWks Supvr
Edina 46,100 $280 Department Heads & Supervisors
St. Louis Park 45,000 $300 Department Heads
$250 Mgr of Bldgs & Str, Supts: Ops, Utility, Parks Supt, Police Capt
Richfield 34,000 $225
Roseville 33,690 $275 Department Heads
Cottage Grove 32,500 $290 Public Safety Director, Fire Chief
Andover 30,000 none
Brooklyn Center 29,172 none
Shakopee 29,000 $200 Public Works Director
Shoreview 27,000 none