HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018/05/21 - ADMIN - Minutes - City Council - RegularSt. Louis Park Official minutes
M I N N E S O T A City council meeting
+�ori�noo UfE h� Ih�L Park St. Louis Park, Minnesota
May 21, 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, and Thom Miller.
Councilmembers absent: Margaret Rog
Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Harmening), City Attorney (Mr. Mattick), Operations and
Recreation Director (Ms. Walsh), Community Development Direction (Ms. Barton), Inspections
Director (Mr. Hoffman), Communications Manager (Ms. Larson), Chief Financial Officer (Mr.
Simon), Economic Development Coordinator (Mr. Hunt), Planner (Ms. Monson), Management
Assistant (Ms. Carrillo Perez) and Recording Secretary (Ms. Pappas).
Guests: Dean Dovolis, DJR architects; Glenn Waguespack, Nancy Blankford, HGA.
Mayor Spano introduced Ms. Alex Hogue, who served as Mayor for the Day. In her time Ms.
Hogue performed a housing inspection, spent time with the city's recycling staff, attended the
council study session, and the regular council meeting.
1a. Pledge of allegiance
1b. Roll call
2. Presentations — Proclamation declaring the first Friday in June National Gun Violence
Awareness Day
Mayor Spano read the proclamation. He noted the council had just completed a
discussion regarding this topic, during which students shared their concerns. He
encouraged everyone to get out and show their support on Friday, June 151.
3. Approval of minutes
3a. LBAE meeting minutes of April 9, 2018
It was moved by Councilmember Movity, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to
approve the April 9, 2018 LBAE meeting minutes as presented.
The motion passed 6-0.
City council meeting -2- May 21, 2018
3b. Study session minutes April 9, 2018
Councilmember Brausen stated on page 5, it should read in the last paragraph: "...that
we need to look at broadening access to the facilities and increasing opportunities and
connections for all our diverse community members to be able to utilize enjoy the nature
center, and he supports committing necessary resources to do so."
Councilmember Miller noted on page 2 it should read: "Councilmember Miller thanked
Ms. Niz for her comments and for bringing these comments forward. He stated he thinks
of Highway 7 as a freeway that goes through our community without any of the safety
measures of a freeway."
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Mavity, to
approve the April 9, 2018 study session meeting minutes as revised.
The motion passed 6-0.
3c. Joint city council & school board meeting minutes April 10, 2018
Councilmember Brausen pointed out he was present at the meeting, although he may
have joined late.
It was moved by Councilmember Mavity, seconded by Councilmember Harris, to approve
the April 10, 2018 joint city council and school board meeting minutes as revised.
The motion passed 6-0.
3d. City council minutes April 16, 2018
It was moved by Councilmember Miller, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to
approve the April 16, 2018 city council meeting minutes as presented.
The motion passed 6-0.
3e. Special study session minutes April 16, 2018
It was moved by Councilmember Harris, seconded by Councilmember Miller, to approve
the April 16, 2018 special study session meeting minutes as presented.
The motion passed 6-0.
4. Approval of agenda and items on consent calendar
4a. Approve second reading and Adopt Ordinance 2536-18 adding section 36 -268 -PUD 12
to the zoning code and amending the zoning map from C-2 general commercial to PUD
12 for the land legally described as: Lots 6 and 7, Block 1, Tower Place, Hennepin
County, Minnesota, and approve the summary ordinance for publication.
4b. Moved to 8e.
City council meeting -3- May 21, 2018
4c. Adopt Resolution No. 18-080 amending and restating Resolution No. 16-027 approving
rules and procedures for boards and commissions
4d. Authorize execution of an amendment to a professional services contract with Short
Elliott Hendrickson in the amount of $140,073 for Wooddale Bridge at Highway 7 -
Project No. 4019-9007.
4e. Approve a temporary on -sale intoxicating liquor license for Beth EI Synagogue. Event to
take place on June 17, 2018 at Beth EI Synagogue located at 5225 Barry Street West.
4f. Approve for filing planning commission meeting minutes of April 4, 2018.
Councilmember Miller requested that consent calendar item 4b be removed and placed
on the regular agenda as item Be.
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Harris, to
approve the agenda and items listed on the consent calendar as amended to move
consent calendar item 4b to the regular agenda as item 8e; and to waive reading of all
resolutions and ordinances.
The motion passed 6-0.
5. Boards and commissions
Sa. Appointment of citizen representatives to boards and commissions
Mayor Spano thanked all who volunteered for the boards and commission
positions.
Councilmember Mavity stated for those folks who have applied for positions, but not
been selected, there is always room to volunteer in other areas of the city, including
neighborhood associations.
Councilmember Harris added there are a few commissions that have work groups, and
she encouraged those who are interested in participating in one, to contact staff and get
involved.
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Harris, to
approve the appointment of citizen representatives to boards and commissions as
proposed.
The motion passed 6-0.
6. Public hearings - none
7. Requests, petitions, and communications from the public — none
8. Resolutions, ordinances, motions and discussion Items
8a. General obligation bonds, series 2018A. Resolution No. 18-081.
City council meeting -4- May 21, 2018
Mr. Simon presented the staff report.
Mr. Aarsvold, Ehlers, noted the city's maintaining the AAA rating reflects well on staff
and the city. The lowest true interest cost was awarded to Piper Jaffrey at 2.8085%.
Councilmember Brausen asked if rates seem to be going upward. Mr. Aarsvold
answered yes, this is the general trend.
Councilmember Mavity referenced the rating summary from Standard and Poor's for St.
Louis Park, and stated this is an extraordinary bond rating and points to the city's strong
management, strong budget, strong liquidity, and strong institutional framework scores.
She added she hopes residents understand the city is trying hard to be good stewards
and this shows in the results of this bond sale.
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Miller, to adopt
Resolution No. 18-081, awarding the sale of general obligation bonds, series 2018A, to
Piper Jaffrey.
The motion passed 6-0.
8b. Bridgewater Bank corporate center preliminary & final plat and preliminary &
final PUD. Resolution No. 18-082.
Ms. Monson presented the staff report. She stated Bridgewater Bank requests
preliminary and final plat and preliminary and final planned unit development (PUD)
approval for the redevelopment of 4424 and 4400 Excelsior Blvd., and 3743 Monterey
Drive. Bridgewater Bank proposes to demolish an existing 1 -story commercial building
and construct a 4 -story, 84,000 square foot office building with a 7,152 square foot
commercial bank branch, 7,530 square feet of retail and service space, including a 4,000
square foot restaurant and three levels of structured parking. The first floor will include
the bank's customer branch, restaurant, and retail space. The second and third floors
will be the bank's executive offices and fourth floor will be a co -working entrepreneurial
hub, servicing new business start-ups. The proposal also includes a public plaza at the
corner of Excelsior and Monterey, with outdoor seating, space for artwork, and
landscaping. Ms. Monson stated a traffic study was completed, and the building will
follow the green building policy, as it relates to the city's climate action plan.
Councilmember Mavity recused herself, noting however, she is very much involved and
looks forward to more conversation with residents in the area, especially regarding the
multimodal design of Monterey Drive.
Councilmember Miller asked with the PUD, if there is a guarantee from the developer
that they would retain retail and restaurant space as it is. Ms. Monson stated the PUD
requires commercial on the ground floor, and the developer would like to see a
restaurant there; however, it is not required. Councilmember Miller encouraged
Bridgewater to follow through on the restaurant as it is important to the neighborhood.
City council meeting -5- May 21, 2018
Councilmember Hallfin stated this property has been on the council's radar for many
years, and when the previous development did not work out, the council started over to
find the best project for this area. He stated he wanted to reiterate how deliberate the
council has been on this project.
Councilmember Hallfin added the property to the north had a concern about the
retaining wall on the property line, with no setback. He noted with a PUD, the developer
will be allowed to include this retaining wall. He added staff sent him examples of
retaining walls which are similar to the one proposed and after seeing that, he feels
better about the neighbor's concerns. He appreciated the work done by staff on this and
stated he will be voting to approve the PUD.
Councilmember Miller stated he spoke with residents at Liv Apartments and while this
has been a long road, which started before he was on the council, he feels this project is
much more appealing than the previous one that was presented. He stated this is the
best project to put in this area at this time, bringing tremendous value to St. Louis Park,
and he will support the project.
Councilmember Harris stated she is impressed with the evolution of this project,
appreciative of staff's collaboration with the developer, and work on the traffic and
public space. She thanked the developers for incorporating the climate action plan into
the development, noting she likes the idea of the restaurant on ground level. She stated
she is enthused with the co -working hub, and entrepreneurial area as a place where
people can have a destination, as it will be an asset to the community for collaboration.
Councilmember Harris stated she will also support the project, which is a great use of
space.
Mayor Spano stated change brings more activity and people, and this project will bring a
strong economy to the community, while balancing the needs from the city's existing
businesses. He noted he also spoke with the Liv Apartment residents and gave kudos to
Bridgewater on working with the Liv Apartment residents to make the back area of the
development look better. He stated this project will bring 200 jobs into the area and be
an area where retail and residential balance each other.
It was moved by Councilmember Miller, seconded by Councilmember Hallfin, to adopt
Resolution No. 18-082, approving the preliminary and final plat subject to conditions.
The motion passed 5-0-1 (Councilmember Mavity abstained).
It was moved by Councilmember Hallfin, seconded by Councilmember Harris, to approve
the first reading of an ordinance adding section 36 -268 -PUD 13 to the zoning code and
amending the zoning map from C-2 general commercial and R-4 multiple family
residential to PUD 13 for the property located at 4424 and 4400 Excelsior Blvd. and 3743
Monterey Drive, and set the second reading fortune 4, 2018.
The motion passed 5-0-1 (Councilmember Mavity abstained).
City council meeting -6- May 21, 2018
8c. Westwood Hills Nature Center project.
Glenn Waguespack pointed out the updates and changes made to the design since the
last discussion with council. He noted the outdoor patio, which replaces an outdoor
deck in the earlier version, stating the patio will be much less maintenance, and will be
an important buffer. Mr. Waguespack noted the classrooms, offices and restrooms,
raptor cages and the flat roof, which will be more efficient and economical, and will
utilize solar panels. He also pointed out a change in the use of less vertical elements and
obstructions on the outside of the building.
Councilmember Mavity stated the new design is an improvement and she appreciated ii
very much. She noted this will be a good investment for the city over the long-term, she
hopes this will be a long-term building, and she will approve the design tonight.
Councilmember Miller stated he is opposed to the current plan, but not opposed to
investing in the nature center. However, he is concerned about the design at $12.5
million, and about cost and liquidity for other projects that come forward in the city. He
added there has not yet been enough spent on affordable housing for families, kids in
the park rental assistance program, or affordable housing for seniors. He stated he will
oppose the design, adding the council will need to consider what projects the city
spends money on — needs vs. wants.
Councilmember Brausen stated he supports the design as it supports the needs of the
community. He stated this is a reinvestment in St. Louis Park and in talking with
residents about the project, the majority of the feedback is that it is a good investment.
He added this is the city's chance to lead and be the first to create a zero -waste building.
He stated he supports this project and encouraged folks to continue to weigh in on it
with the council and share their concerns.
Councilmember Harris stated as someone who grew up in St. Louis Park and had her
first job at the nature center, it is an honor to be a part of the project. She stated she
has spoken to folks about the project and found they care about the city's natural
resources and want their children, parents, and grandparents to continue to enjoy the
nature center over the years. She stated when information about the climate action
plan is shared, people understand the high costs, but do appreciate the design, adding
she will support this.
Councilmember Hallfin stated he supports the project and the overall spending and
takes a different view than Councilmember Miller. He stated he looks at each project
the city considers as mutually exclusive, he looks at the merits of the project itself, and
this is how he has looked at this project. He also will support the project design.
Mayor Spano stated he will also support the design, adding when recently visiting the
nature center, he noticed he is drawn to the water there. He asked the architects about
featuring the water more in future plans for the nature center. Mayor Spano also asked
about the removed columns and how they were changed or minimized, noting the
City council meeting -7- May 21, 2018
center needs more space. Mr. Waguespack stated 11 columns were removed, which
were not structurally needed for the design.
It was moved by Councilmember Mavity, seconded by Councilmember Hallfin, to approve
the results of the design development phase and authorize staff and consultants to move
to the next phase of preparing construction documents for the Westwood Hills Nature
Center project.
The motion passed 5-1 (Councilmember Miller opposed).
8d. First reading of ordinance related to memberships terms of environment &
sustainability commission.
Ms. Carrillo Perez explained during the most recent annual appointment process, the
city received no applications for either the business or residential tenant member
positions on the Environmental and Sustainability Commission (ESC). On April 30, 2018
the council discussed possible changes to the membership terms that would allow for
the currently vacant positions to be filled and for the commission to have a full
membership. Ms. Carrillo Perez stated that ESC members did not express any concerns
with the change to term expiration dates, which will take effect June 28, 2018. The
positions will be filled at the sole discretion of the council.
Councilmember Brausen stated in 2012 and 2013 he was on the ESC task force that the
council appointed and was part of drafting the design of the commission. He stated at
that time, it was to have business members, but by making it a requirement, it left the
commission a bit understaffed at times. He stated he is fully supportive of this change.
Councilmember Mavity stated she also supports these changes, especially in light of
adopting the climate action plan. She pointed out the most difficult piece will be
working with the business community, and a new strategy may be needed to reach
businesses in order to meet the climate action plan goals.
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Harris, to
approve the first reading of an ordinance amending Sec. 2-332 of the St. Louis Park City
Code related to the membership terms of the Environment and Sustainability
Commission and to schedule the second reading of the ordinance forlune 4, 2018.
The motion passed 6-0.
8e. Approval of the strategic priorities and council norms as developed at the
January council workshop and May follow up session.
Councilmember Brausen stated the five strategic priorities should be read into the
record, as they will be the points that guide the council's work.
It was moved by Councilmember Miller, seconded by Councilmember Mavity, to refer
discussion on council norms to the next study session for further clarifications.
City council meeting -8- May 21, 2018
The motion passed 5-0.
9. Communications
Councilmember Brausen commented on how much fun the ice cream social was. He
stated his appreciation for the Children First group and the community for putting this
event on.
Mayor Spano stated every ten years the city works on the comprehensive plan, and
noted a survey is now on the city website. He recommended folks contact city staff or
the council about any questions.
Mayor Spano stated next Monday is Memorial Day and the city offices will be closed.
He also noted Oak Hills Splash Pad opens on May 26,
Mayor Spano stated the Common Sound Concert, a joint event with Beth EI and Benilde
— St. Margaret will be held on June 16. Additionally, the Lenox Community Center will
host the IFTAR dinner (breaking the Ramadan fast) on June 7 from 8-10 p.m.
Councilmember Harris noted there is a Police meet and greet for Ward 3, on May 22
from 7-9 p.m. at Ainsworth Park.
10. Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:06 p.m.
Melissa <ennedy,ity CI rk J ke SrUfo, Mayor