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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005/06/20 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - City Council - Regular AGENDA SUMMARY CITY COUNCIL MEETING ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA June 20, 2005 – 7:30 p.m. 6:45 p.m. Study Session – Westwood Room 7:15 p.m. EDA Meeting – Council Chambers 1. Call to Order a. Pledge of Allegiance b. Roll Call 2. Presentations a. Fred Dolton Recognition 3. Approval of Minutes a. City Council Minutes of June 6, 2005 b. City Council Special Meeting Minutes of May 23, 2005 c. Study Session Minutes of May 23, 2005 d. Study Session Minutes of June 6, 2005 Action: Corrections/amendments to minutes - Minutes approved as presented 4. Approval of Agenda and Items on Consent Calendar NOTE: The Consent Calendar lists those items of business which are considered to be routine and/or which need no discussion. Consent items are acted upon by one motion. If discussion is desired by either a Councilmember or a member of the audience, that item may be moved to an appropriate section of the regular agenda for discussion. Action: Motion to approve the agenda as presented and to approve items listed on the consent calendar (Alternatively: Motion to add or remove items from the agenda, motion to move items from consent calendar to regular agenda for discussion and to approve those items remaining on the consent calendar). 5. Boards and Commissions - None 6. Public Hearings 6a. Public Hearing to consider an application for a Club On-Sale Intoxicating Liquor License for the Frank Lundberg American Legion Post 282 located at 5605 W 36th St in St. Louis Park Recommended Action: Mayor to close public hearing. Motion to approve the application for a Club Liquor License Agenda Summary June 20, 2005 6b. Public Hearing to consider Vacation of a portion of 16th Street West near Lamplighter Pond First reading of an ordinance vacating a portion of 16th Street near Lamplighter Pond as required by Easement Agreement between the Park Assembly of God Church and the City of St. Louis Park for the construction of Lamplighter Pond. Recommended Action: Mayor to close the public hearing. Motion to approve first reading of an ordinance vacating right-of- way along a portion of 16th Street West and set second reading for July 5, 2005. 7. Requests, Petitions, and Communications from the Public - None 8. Resolutions, Ordinances, Motions 8a. Request of Sam’s Club for a Comprehensive Plan Map amendment from Industrial to Commercial and a Zoning Map amendment from IG – General Industrial to C2 – General Commercial for property located at 7115 W. Lake Street. Case Nos. 05-17-CP and 05-16-Z. Recommended Action: Motion to adopt Resolution amending the Comprehensive Plan to change the land use designation from Industrial to Commercial at 7115 W. Lake Street. Motion to adopt first reading of an Ordinance amending the Official Zoning Map changing the zoning designation from IG – General Industrial to C2 – General Commercial at 7115 W. Lake Street and to set second reading for July 5, 2005. 8b. Request for a public hearing to consider the establishment of a special service district along the western portion of Excelsior Boulevard from Highway 100 to Louisiana Avenue and to consider the imposition of a service charge within the district. Recommended Action: Motion to approve a public hearing for July 18, 2005 to consider the establishment of Special Service District #4 and consider the imposition of a service charge within the district. Agenda Summary June 20, 2005 8c. Request of Emad Abed for a Comprehensive Plan land use amendment and a Zoning map amendment for property located at 7202 and 7252 Excelsior Boulevard. Case Nos. 04-71-CP and 04-72-Z The applicant is requesting the City to reguide and rezone properties to allow a 6-story condominium project. The project will also require a plat and CUP for excavation/fill. In addition, a PUD may be required. Those applications may only be made following action on the Comprehensive Plan amendment and rezoning. Recommended Action: ü Motion to approve Resolution amending the Comprehensive Plan Land Use from Office to RC contingent upon review of the Metropolitan Council, approve summary publication and authorize publication. ü Motion to approve first reading of Ordinance amending zoning map to change the designation from O-Office to RC-Residential Commercial and set second reading for July 5, 2005. 9. Communications 10. Adjournment Auxiliary aids for individuals with disabilities are available upon request. To make arrangements, please call the Administration Department) at 952/924-2525 (TDD 952/924-2518) at least 96 hours in advance of meeting. ST. LOUIS PARK CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 20, 2005 SECTION 4: CONSENT CALENDAR NOTE: The Consent Calendar lists those items of business which are considered to be routine and/or which need no discussion. Consent items are acted upon by one motion. If discussion is desired by either a Councilmember or a member of the audience, that item may be moved to an appropriate section of the regular agenda for discussion. 4a. Motion to approve Resolution to adopt the updated Public Purpose Expenditure Policy and rescind prior Resolution Nos. 00-055 and 03-013. 4b. Bid Tabulation: Motion to designate Valley Paving Inc. the lowest responsible bidder and authorize execution of a contract with the firm in the amount of $843,724.12 for the 2005 Municipal State Aid Street Rehabilitation Project – City Project No. 2004-1100 4c. Motion to approve Resolution recognizing contributions and expressing appreciation to Fred Dolton. 4d Housing Authority Minutes of May 11, 2005 4e. Motion to accept vendor claims for filing (supplement) AGENDA SUPPLEMENT CITY COUNCIL MEETING June 20, 2005 Items contained in this section are those items which are not yet available in electronic format and which are identified in the individual reports by inclusion of the word “Supplement”. St. Louis Park City Council Meeting Item: 062005 - 3a - CC Mtg minutes June 6, 2005 Page 1 UNOFFICIAL MINUTES CITY COUNCIL MEETING ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA June 6, 2005 1. Call to Order Mayor Jacobs called the meeting to order at 7:30 pm. Council members present: Mayor Jeff Jacobs, John Basill, Phil Finkelstein, Paul Omodt, Susan Sanger, Sue Santa, and Sally Velick Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Harmening), City Attorney (Mr. Scott), Public Works Director (Mr. Rardin), City Engineer (Mr. Brink), Director of Parks and Recreation (Ms. Walsh), Planning/Zoning Supervisor (Ms. McMonigal), Planning Coordinator (Ms. Erickson) and Recording Secretary (Ms. Stegora-Peterson). 2. Presentations - None 3. Approval of Minutes 3a. City Council Minutes of May 16, 2005 Councilmember Finkelstein clarified in the fourth paragraph of page five, that the County agreed they would change the median if the City requested it. The minutes were approved as corrected. 3b. Study Session Minutes of May 16, 2005 Councilmember Basill indicated in the first sentence of paragraph three, page three, “where there are no blighted buildings” should be added at the end of the sentence. The last sentence of the same paragraph should read, “…there and MnDot, the County and St. Louis Park should be supporting this.” Councilmember Basill also indicated on page two the second paragraph should state he was at a neighborhood meeting, not just with neighborhood leadership. The minutes were approved as corrected. 4. Approval of Agenda and Items on Consent Calendar NOTE: The Consent Calendar lists those items of business which are considered to be routine and/or which need no discussion. Consent items are acted upon by one motion. If discussion is desired by either a Councilmember or a member of the audience, that item may be moved to an appropriate section of the regular agenda for discussion. St. Louis Park City Council Meeting Item: 062005 - 3a - CC Mtg minutes June 6, 2005 Page 2 4a Approve second reading of Ordinance No. 2292-05 amending Chapter 16 of the St. Louis Park municipal code establishing an administrative fee in vehicle forfeiture cases, and to approve the summary and authorize publication 4b Approve Resolution No. 05-080 authorizing the Execution of a Joint Cooperation Agreement between the City of St. Louis Park and Hennepin County for Participating in the Urban Hennepin County Community Development Block Grant Program in FY 2006- 2008. 4c Approve an operations grant of $35,000 from Cable TV franchise fees to School District #283, at the recommendation of the Telecommunications Advisory Commission 4d Facilities Superintendent’s Report: Adopt Resolution No. 05-081 accepting this report, establishing and ordering Capital Improvement Project No. 20051700, approving plans and specifications, and authorizing advertisement for bids to replace the roof system on the Police Department building 4e Facilities Superintendent’s Report: Adopt Resolution No. 05-082 accepting this report, establishing and ordering upgrades to HVAC Systems at the Police Facility, approving plans and specifications, and authorizing advertisement for bids to upgrade the HVAC Systems – Capital Improvement Project 20051600 4f Adopt Resolution No. 05-083 ratifying appointment of Citizen Representative to the Basset Creek Watershed Management District 4g Accept Minutes of Fire Civil Service Commission April 1, 2005 4h Accept Minutes of Parks and Recreation Commission April 20, 2005 4i Accept Minutes of Planning Commission May 4, 2005 4j Accept Minutes of Planning Commission May 18, 2005 4k Accept Vendor Claims Report (supplement) Mr. Harmening indicated that item 8c should be removed from the agenda. It was moved by Councilmember Santa, seconded by Councilmember Velick, to approve the Agenda (removing item 8c) and items listed on the Consent Calendar. The motion passed 7-0. 5. Boards and Commissions - None 6. Public Hearings - None 7. Requests, Petitions, and Communications from the Public – None St. Louis Park City Council Meeting Item: 062005 - 3a - CC Mtg minutes June 6, 2005 Page 3 8. Resolutions, Ordinances, Motions 8a. City Engineer’s Report: Cedar Lake Road Trail Connection, Project No. 2004-0303 Resolution No. 05-077 Mr. Brink presented the staff report. Kristi Rudelius-Palmer, 4820 Old Cedar Lk Rd, recalled an example demonstrating why they needed to take action, her children were involved with an incident and a near fatal accident when their burley got stuck in the train tracks, with a train coming. Bill Allen, President of Cedar Trails Condo Assn., stated that it was difficult to get to the trail. This would increase use of the trail. Residents of the association he talked with supported this. Gary Berscheid, 1604 Blackstone, President of Blackstone Neighborhood Assn., indicated he polled the neighborhood and they were supportive of the trail. They didn’t have access because all the holes in the “wall” had been closed. Robert Anderst, 1649 Ottawa Av S, was excited about the trail and it being more accessible. Cheryl Briggs, 4461 Cedar Lk Rd, indicated she was in favor of the project. This would open up the area and reduce some of the problems that had been occurring. Anne Siegle, 4636 Cedar Lk Rd, stated she was in favor. J Skalbeck, Hennepin County Bicycle Advisory Committee, indicated they were trying to get trails all over and this fit well. It added a safety feature with safer access, and also promoted more riders. Dan Steinberg, Co-Chair Cedarhurst Neighborhood Association, he supported trails and was happy to use them. Many residents in the senior living homes would like to walk on the trails. This connects with the transit station they were planning to build where the stadium had been proposed. All they needed was the link to the river. Steven Steucts, 8812 36th St W, stated this would be a good alternative until they completed the Cedar Lake trail. Lou Schoen noted two users that hadn’t been mentioned were those with disabilities and those using strollers who also needed access to the trail. Councilmember Sanger stated she had worked on this issue for a long time and had many requests for this access. She was glad to have the opportunity to improve safety and access to the trail. There were a few people with concerns about this trail, living on Cedar Lk Rd and in Lake Forest. She wanted to acknowledge their concerns that there may be a lot of people parking on Cedar Lake Rd and Lake Forest to use the trail. Residents expect if this was a large problem, that the City would help them by taking steps such as eliminating parking on that block of Cedar Lake Rd and making sure there wasn’t signage advertising a trailhead there. St. Louis Park City Council Meeting Item: 062005 - 3a - CC Mtg minutes June 6, 2005 Page 4 It was moved by Councilmember Sanger, seconded by Councilmember Finkelstein, to adopt Resolution No. 05-077 accepting this report, establishing and ordering Improvement Project No. 2004-0303, approving plans and specifications, and authorizing advertisement for bids. Councilmember Omodt echoed Councilmember Sanger’s comments and indicated he was contacted by some of the same residents. They would be altering a block and people’s lives and he hoped people were respectful that they would be seeing a lot of change coming through their neighborhood. Mr. Steinberg noted that the Cedar Lake Park Association has stated that they would not put a trailhead on the web site or the map and would make sure the City of Minneapolis did not advertise this as a trailhead. Councilmember Sanger suggested the City of St. Louis Park not map this or mark it as an established trailhead. The motion passed 7-0. Councilmember Sanger asked if the schedule went as described, when would construction start and be completed? Mr. Brink replied it could be completed this year. 8b. Permanent Off-Leash Dog Park Ms. Walsh presented the staff report. The task force members met with residents around Dakota Park, which resulted in some changes. The site was decreased to about an acre. This revision eliminated the need to reroute the trail. She reviewed the task force recommendations. Charlie Goldstein, 1646 Virginia Av. S, commented that he had been going to the temporary dog park and had observed dogs playing nicely, rarely barking, no dog fights, dogs using energy and playing. His dog had little energy afterward and was much less prone to bark, like others who had been chained up all day. Dogs learn to socialize there and owners socialized, which builds community. There was no traffic congestion or disruption to the neighborhood. Gretchen Breitweiser, 2924 Ottawa, stated that she was in favor of the dog park. She suggested possibly having a gate on the other side of the dog park. Ms. Walsh indicated one of the reasons they were not recommending it at this time was to limit access. There was concern about people going by the playground area. It could be added in the future. Ms. Breitweiser also suggested a separate area for newcomers to the dog park or for those with small dogs. St. Louis Park City Council Meeting Item: 062005 - 3a - CC Mtg minutes June 6, 2005 Page 5 Ms. Walsh responded they discussed this, it was in some of the additional recommendations and if it was a continual request or problem, they would consider doing that in the future. They wanted to start with a permanent location and monitor it. Robert McDonald, 2724 Jersey, stated that he supported the dog park. He would recommend in the North corner have a small dog area and also a secondary gate which would enable people to get to the water cooler easier. He also believed one light would be sufficient. Mayor Jacobs thanked the task force members for a well-run process and a lot of work. Councilmember Omodt suggested this be revisited in two years to see if they needed more dog parks. Mr. McDonald believed that more than one dog park was a good idea to add variety. He didn’t believe the park at 40th and France would get used because it was too far away, but he liked the Victoria Pond site. Councilmember Sanger stated she initiated work on this based on requests from many people and because they worked in New York. She would like to continue thinking about another area to accommodate smaller dogs. She hoped they would have better lighting, which helps make sure that owners cleaned up after their dogs. It was moved by Councilmember Sanger, seconded by Councilmember Santa, to adopt the recommendations of the Off - Leash Dog Park Task Force and authorize the creation of a permanent off – leash dog park along the southeast edge of Dakota Park. Councilmember Santa wanted people to understand the dog park would be supported by the user fees. Ms. Walsh replied residents pay $25/year and non-residents pay $50/year. Councilmember Santa stated this was self-supporting. It would give people an opportunity to socialize their pets in an appropriate place. There are also people who do not use the parks regularly who have a right to have recreational needs met. She found it vital for the health of the community. Ms. Breitweiser commented that her daughter goes to Peter Hobart School. She had talked with some parents who live near the dog park, worried about how their children would be affected. There will be a fence and people would pick up after the dogs. This would be safer because dogs wouldn’t be running free. Mr. Goldstein stated that his dog was very tired after running at the dog park. Councilmember Finkelstein agreed with the comment about strongly considering a separate area for small dogs. This was another way of responding to citizens needs, providing expanded services and making the area more desirable. The motion passed 7-0. St. Louis Park City Council Meeting Item: 062005 - 3a - CC Mtg minutes June 6, 2005 Page 6 8c. Removed from agenda 8d. Request of the City of St. Louis Park to amend Chapter D - Housing of Comprehensive Plan 2000 – 2002 to update tables and graphs and associated text and to incorporate housing goals and implementation strategies of the Housing Summit. Case Nos. 05-06-CP Resolution No. 05-078 Ms. Erickson presented the staff report. Councilmember Santa believed it made sense to put to use a document that came out of so much discussion and study. Councilmember Basill read number three on page D21, “At the present time the greatest deficit and need is for the creation and maintenance of detached, owner-occupied, single family housing which are large enough to accommodate families.” They hear that loud and clear in the community and it was good to have that direction for staff. It was moved by Councilmember Santa, seconded by Councilmember Velick, to approve Resolution No. 05-078 amendment to Chapter D – Housing of the Comprehensive Plan 2000 – 2020 contingent upon review by Metropolitan Council. Councilmember Finkelstein stated many people worked on the Housing Steering committee. Two issues bear closer attention at a study session. The issue of condominium maintenance and making sure as there were more condominiums that they take necessary steps to make sure they are kept up and look at the issue of whether inspections were appropriate. Secondly, the issue of affordable housing and owner occupied housing in all areas of the city. The motion passed 6-0. (Councilmember Omodt was out of the room) 8e. Resolution of support for State of MN Capital Appropriation for a Railroad Switching Yard in Glencoe, Minnesota Resolution No. 05-079 Mr. Harmening reported on the switching yard and the recommendation of the Railroad Task Force to relocate the switching yard. It was moved by Councilmember Santa, seconded by Councilmember Sanger, to adopt Resolution No. 05-079 supporting the State of MN Capital Appropriation for a Railroad Switching Yard in Glencoe, Minnesota. Councilmember Basill clarified this was the switching station behind South Oaks. If they got this and it went to Glencoe, he thought it should be tied to moving the second set of tracks behind South Oak. Even if they build it, if the tracks are there, they will use them. St. Louis Park City Council Meeting Item: 062005 - 3a - CC Mtg minutes June 6, 2005 Page 7 In exchange for building it in Glencoe, they needed to get them to remove the second set of tracks behind South Oak. Councilmember Santa agreed, but felt they needed to take one step at a time. Even a small step was very important. They would continue to work on that. The motion passed 7-0. 9. Communications Mayor Jacobs reminded people of Parktacular, June 16th-19th. The parade will be June 18th at noon. Councilmember Santa thanked members of the VFW and American Legion for the Memorial Day services and commemoration at Wolf Park. Secondly, Oak Hill Park wading pool has been replaced with a splash pad and the official ribbon cutting will be Monday, June 13th at 6:00. 10. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ City Clerk Mayor St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 3b - Special Mtg Minutes May 23, 2005 Page 1 UNOFFICIAL MINUTES CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA MAY 23, 2005 1. Call to Order Mayor Jacobs called the meeting to order at 6:33 pm. Council members present: Mayor Jeff Jacobs, John Basill, Paul Omodt, Susan Sanger, Sue Santa, and Sally Velick Councilmember Finkelstein was absent. Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Harmening), Director of Technology and Support Services (Mr. Pires) and Recording Secretary (Ms. Stegora-Peterson). 2. Action Item - Wireless Study Consultant Mr. Pires reported three firms were interviewed and Virchow Krause had the best understanding of what they wanted and statement of what they would do. He discussed their background. He was confident they could complete the work on time and within budget. Mayor Jacobs asked if they had worked with a partnership model? Mr. Pires replied yes, Moorehead Public Services. Councilmember Sanger asked what they could expect to receive and when? Mr. Pires replied they would have a meeting to provide background materials, informal survey information, information on wireless assets and they may also do a survey and use that information for market research including who would buy the service at various price points. They were looking at $16- 24/month range at different rates of speed. Councilmember Omodt asked if they would do an analysis for future technology? Mr. Pires replied yes, there would be either a full or partial exit strategy. Mayor Jacobs asked how easy it would be to upgrade the technology? Mr. Pires replied they needed to be prepared for new technology and take advantage of it. They were giving themselves options, for an exit strategy or if they decided to stay in this. Councilmember Sanger asked if they were looking into legal issues and what the timeline was? Mr. Pires replied yes. The timeline was three months, with a completion date of August 22. They wanted to ensure this was not interrupted by legislative action. Councilmember Sanger asked if this allowed time before the legislation? Mr. Pires responded there was no guarantee, but if they had made more of a commitment, they were more likely to be grandfathered. They were also looking at a charter amendment regarding telecommunications services and provide more clarity. St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 3b - Special Mtg Minutes May 23, 2005 Page 2 Councilmember Basill stated he was opposed because he believed it should be a partnership and that the partner do they study. The risk of legislative action concerned him. Councilmember Sanger asked if they went forward with a partner, could they try to recoup exploration costs from the partner? Councilmember Santa believed that the partnership didn’t have to be 50/50, it could be 60/40 or based on what each party brought to the partnership. Mr. Pires added they wanted to be open to all alternatives and vendors. Nothing precluded them from recouping some of the costs. Mr. Harmening indicated at this point they were doing research and development. The consultant could suggest they don’t do this. If they didn’t think this was a good idea, now would be the time to say so. Councilmember Velick asked after the consultant completed work, would there be additional funding required or would a partner come in with funding? Mr. Pires replied it could be anything. Councilmember Sanger asked if there had been discussion about setting up a non-profit corporation to run this? Mr. Pires replied that was one alternative. Mayor Jacobs expressed an interest at looking into that further. Councilmember Sanger believed there might be a good end result and they could recoup funds through franchise fees. Mayor Jacobs believed the only way this made sense was as a partnership. He shared Councilmember Basill’s concerns, but supported this. Mr. Pires stated what was key to the analysis was that the city owned a number of assets (land, water towers and fiber networks). Mayor Jacobs wanted to be able to recoup that. If another entity wanted to partner with the City to do this, he wanted to be sure there was sharing of the up front costs. Councilmember Sanger asked if the School Board would go in on the costs? Mr. Harmening indicated there had been no formal commitment. They were potentially looking forward to the benefits of it. The City would expect reimbursement from the School for any contributions that the City made. It was moved by Councilmember Santa, seconded by Councilmember Sanger to authorize execution of a contract with Virchow, Krause & Company, LLP in the amount of $58,750 for completion of a study of the technical, market, and financial feasibility and options to ensure access to competitively priced wireless high speed Internet service The motion passed 5-1, with Councilmember Basill opposed. 3. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 6:55 p.m. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ City Clerk Mayor St. Louis Park City Council Meeting Item: 062005 - 3c - SS Minutes May 23, 2005 Page 1 UNOFFICIAL MINUTES CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION May 23, 2005 The meeting convened at 6:55 p.m. Councilmembers present: John Basill, Paul Omodt, Susan Sanger, Sue Santa, Sally Velick and Mayor Jeff Jacobs. Councilmember Finkelstein was absent Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Harmening), Director of Parks and Recreation (Ms. Walsh), Fire Chief (Mr. Stemmer), Battalion Chief (Mr. Dobesh), Battalion Chief (Mr. Smith), Battalion Chief (Mr. Windschtl) and Recording Secretary (Ms. Stegora-Peterson). 1. Location of Permanent Off-Leash Dog Park Ms. Walsh presented the project background. Fourteen potential sites were ranked be set criteria. A public meeting was held on April 20th. Bill James, Off-Leash task force member, discussed the four recommended sites. The first choice was Dakota Park to be opened in summer 2005. Bass Lake Park Reserve would remain open for a year to allow discussions with Minneapolis and Edina regarding the 40th and France site, which would be the choice for the second permanent site. If that site were not available, they would recommend Cedar Knoll Park. He discussed park details. Councilmember Velick asked if there would be plastic bags at the sites? Ms. Walsh replied they would continue to do that. Ms. Walsh stated that the City of Minneapolis was unsure about future use of the 40th and France location. They would decide within a year. Mayor Jacobs asked how big the site was? Ms. Walsh replied 1.2 acres. They the area was made smaller based on comments from adjoining property owners. They may grow vines or plants to buffer. Councilmember Sanger asked if they could move the location further northeast? Ms. Walsh replied there was a trail in that location. Mayor Jacobs asked if they had gotten feedback about the existing park? Ms. Walsh replied yes, it was too small. The new site would be double. Councilmember Velick received feedback about the trail from people who walk along the trail (with dogs off-leash) who were upset. She explained the reasons for this to them. Ms. Walsh indicated they were looking to reroute the trail. St. Louis Park City Council Meeting Item: 062005 - 3c - SS Minutes May 23, 2005 Page 2 Councilmember Sanger commented she hadn’t gotten one complaint about the existing site. Her main concern was that people who use the dog park respect the neighbors. Two things she heard about were adequate lighting and that wood chips are supplied. Ms. Walsh believed with two sites, there would be less traffic at each site. Mr. Harmening asked what the next steps were? Ms. Walsh responded that the next step would be to meet with residents to be sure they knew what was happening. Councilmember Basill asked if the landscaping plan had been shown to neighbors. Ms. Walsh replied yes. They were considering lilacs and vines. Mr. Harmening asked if the residents of that area preferred housing or a dog park? Mr. James replied neither, but of the two, they preferred the dog park. The biggest issues were parking along Nevada, noise and environmental issues (deer and wildlife). Ms. Slase stated that this was the best of all sites. They had many meetings and a good public process. This site had the least negative comments. Councilmember Sanger asked about the Lake Victoria site? Ms. Slase indicated that site had the most negative comments and parking issues. It was a smaller area and not very level. Councilmember Basill asked if negative comments about 40th and France were from St. Louis Park residents? Ms. Walsh responded that people to the North were concerned about parking. Ms. Walsh stated they were meeting with Dakota Park residents in the next week and would return to Council on June 6th for formal approval. They would have further discussions with the school and also do a mailing including all comments received. Councilmember Santa asked how much this would cost and where funds would come from? Ms. Walsh indicated they recommend continuing the permit fee and offer this with the dog licenses. The money goes into the park improvement fund and would be used for on-going maintenance. The cost would be $25-30,000 for fencing and landscaping. Councilmember Basill had a concern about the safety of the school children and thought they needed to get more guidance from the school. Could they have a double fence? Ms Walsh suggested they screen both sides of the fence with landscaping. 2. Fire Department Program and Activity Update Chief Stemmer presented a chart of the organizational structure and reviewed the job duties and responsibilities. There are 24 career and 24 paid, on-call firefighters. Battalion Chief Windschtl, Operations, reviewed the 2004 response analysis (handout). There were 3,991 calls. They had been working on decreasing false alarms. They belong to Southwest Mutual Aid and Hennepin County Mutual Aid and can utilize neighboring cities if needed. Average response time is 4 minutes, 30 seconds and medical response time is 4 minutes, 12 seconds. St. Louis Park City Council Meeting Item: 062005 - 3c - SS Minutes May 23, 2005 Page 3 Councilmember Sanger asked if trucks were still sent for medical emergencies. Battalion Chief Windschtl replied no, they send two people in a rescue vehicle. Councilmember Sanger asked how many women firefighters there were? Battalion Chief Windschtl replied two career and three or four on-call. Battalion Chief Dobesh, Training/Safety, reported in 2004 they had 6,708 hours of training. Highlights included: Finished an EMT refresher, eight members of the department are CPR instructors, annual drivers evaluation, firefighter safety and survival training, training drill at an Edina home, four firefighters attended an international level training conference in Indianapolis, three members on the Urban Search and Rescue Team (deployed for larger incidents), with one more going through training. The 2005 plan is to focus on the command structure, officer development and to solidify the promotional process. Safety numbers for 2004: 22 first reports of injury, five days lost and one light duty assignment (3 months). The 2005 safety plan includes working on seat belt usage. They have started a health and wellness committee and will continue training. Battalion Chief Dobesh, Fire Prevention, reported activities involved with the fire prevention division. Highlights for 2004 included inspected 500 occupancies (businesses) with 1614 violations and they issued 182 fire permits. They were continuing to promote sprinkler systems. Mayor Jacobs asked how the low interest loan program was working for businesses? Battalion Chief Smith replied excellent. They had four projects in the works. They were very restrictive on sprinkler system requirements. To assist, they had the special assessment program, which was very successful and more businesses were installing sprinklers. Councilmember Sanger asked if apartments or condos were required to have sprinklers? Battalion Chief Smith replied new buildings were required to. It didn’t happen often with existing buildings because there was low turn over. Councilmember Santa stated that inspections was doing a survey, was the information on who had sprinklers being included in that process? Battalion Chief Smith replied not now. He would be providing the information. Councilmember Velick asked if the requirement was that only buildings over four stories were required to have sprinklers? Battalion Chief Smith replied that had changed. Anything new would have sprinklers (not including residential). Councilmember Sanger asked if they wanted to be made aware of houses that were going to be torn down to use for practice? Chief Stemmer replied yes. They were required to do asbestos and lead abatement first, so advanced notice was preferred. Chief Stemmer further discussed the organizational chart. A labor management committee had been created within the last year or two and they had been able to talk about issues with the union. The union informed them of a company in California who would install cameras in engines to be used for peer review. The goal was for the union and management to devise a system for peer St. Louis Park City Council Meeting Item: 062005 - 3c - SS Minutes May 23, 2005 Page 4 review for incidents and to be able to use as a training tool. The union was confident the tape would actually vindicate drivers. There would be no cost to the City because they were a test site. Chief Stemmer discussed strategic planning. The department hadn’t done a lot of long-range planning and tended to be autocratic. They asked members of the department what they thought needed to be improved. They had focus groups and also held a daylong meeting to discuss issues, ideas and objectives. They came up with the top nine important issues: determine the right things to do and do them well; communication; decision making powers (down in the organization); personnel issues (relationship w/labor meeting); marketing the fire department; customer service; training; station improvements (possible relocation); and, wellness and fitness. They also developed a new mission statement: Promote, educate and serve with courtesy and integrity, as well as a motto: Devoted to Duty for all who call. They had a 1,000-day plan to accomplish these and were also reviewing the visioning process in St. Louis Park. Councilmember Santa noted that many seniors didn’t want to “bother” the Fire Department. Seniors would be a good group to market to and educate. Chief Stemmer indicated that they tried to work with families on issues with seniors. 3. Emergency Plan Review Fire Chief Stemmer stated that this was an all hazard plan. A risk assessment was done and the top vulnerability was for computer attacks such as viruses. A chapter was added solely for continuation of services and protecting the computer systems. It was important to let citizens know that government would continue. Potential targets in St. Louis Park were government facilities, schools, water supplies, etc. The Director of Emergency Management is the City Manger, but he has been directed to maintain the plan and put together training sessions. Hennepin County has an Emergency Management Plan (EMP) and he would work with them to coordinate services. They hoped to have an integrated EM system. The system deals with: mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery. He described the steps. They use the MN Incident Command system and all agencies work together. There would be an Emergency Operations Center (EOC), which was currently the Fire Conference room. The EOC is activated when an incident goes beyond the scope of people to deal with it, which helps facilitate an emergency and allows people to work together better. The Emergency Plan has a resource manual, which includes all phone numbers of those who need to be contacted in the event of an emergency. He further reviewed the chapters. Councilmember Santa noted in Chapter A, there were wardens for every department except the Rec. Center? Chief Stemmer replied those listed were primarily in City Hall. There are radios in the Rec. Center and they have a plan. They can include more information regarding the Rec. Center. Councilmember Santa asked in the case of a major disaster, was there a centralized number for people to call for information? Chief Stemmer replied that the Red Cross has a tracking system. They can also set up public information lines, which the State would help with. Councilmember Sanger asked if there was an employee oriented plan dealing with issues such as work place violence or a disgruntled member of the public? There should also be a section St. Louis Park City Council Meeting Item: 062005 - 3c - SS Minutes May 23, 2005 Page 5 on employee issues, disasters and the aftermath. Also, who calls to provide notification in the case of an emergency and communicates with the media? Chief Stemmer replied contact information was included in the manual. Any information to the media needed to be cleared by the Emergency Preparedness Director. There is also a communications coordinator who would gather information for the Preparedness Director. The Mayor would potentially present the information after that. It was laid out in the manual. Mr. Harmening clarified as Emergency Preparedness Director he wouldn’t be instructing Police, Fire, etc. on specific emergency management, which would be the Coordinator’s job. He would make sure people were informed and resources were being provided to deal with the event, and the departments were working properly. Mayor Jacobs stated the ability of the City to work with utilities was a concern. Chief Stemmer indicated that Public Works would work with the utilities on issues such as restoring power. Councilmember Basill thought there was a work place violence procedure separate from this. Mr. Harmening thought it might not be as comprehensive and would be kept as a separate policy. Councilmember Basill noted a concern about the availability of contact numbers. Chief Stemmer responded their list included home, work and cell numbers for those who would need to be contacted. Councilmember Santa suggested the list include Email addresses. Councilmember Sanger suggested they keep that list at their homes. Councilmember Omodt noted he kept his important work numbers in his wallet and also in his vehicles. They were updated once a month. Councilmember Basill was worried about what had happened at the substation and companies with the chemicals. Councilmember Santa was concerned about what the trains were carrying and potential issues. Councilmember Basill asked if they should consider a chapter on potentially high-risk areas to work on in the community. Chief Stemmer noted that was a part of the mitigation. They have done some hazard assessment and have worked with businesses on their plans. The emergency plan was how to continue government in the case of an emergency and how to minimize impact. Councilmember Sanger asked if something happened to City Hall, where would they govern? Chief Stemmer replied at Fire Station #1. Chief Stemmer stated that the role of the Council was to be informed and to exercise leadership. They needed to establish legal contacts and do things equitably. Any meetings needed to be documented. They would need to keep the public informed. The Mayor was able to declare a disaster and the Council would be able to meet without the special meeting notice. City Charter allowed the rules to be suspended in the event of an emergency. They needed to have final acceptance of the plan and sign off from the Department Heads. The government now has a planned called the National Response Plan. With that came NIMS, the National Incident Management System. A resolution will be coming before Council to adopt NIMS. City employees will be required to go to an IS700 class on the St. Louis Park City Council Meeting Item: 062005 - 3c - SS Minutes May 23, 2005 Page 6 National Management System. They will also be looking at and evaluating EOC locations. In the fall there will be more extensive discussions with the directors. Councilmember Sanger asked what coordination had been done with private entities and with their emergency plans? Chief Stemmer replied they had been working with Methodist Hospital and other businesses, although many businesses in St. Louis Park do not have plans. 4. Meeting Schedule Councilmember Sanger asked when they were meeting in January? Mr. Harmening indicated there would be three meetings in January, with the first meeting of the year (the annual meeting) to be held on January 9th. A study session may be combined on a Council meeting night. 5. Other Mr. Harmening suggested the Council meet with Golden Valley City Council to discuss the 394 corridor and mutual items of interest along 394. He would set a meeting date. The meeting adjourned at 9:38 p.m. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ City Clerk Mayor St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 3d - SS Minutes June 6, 2005 Page 1 UNOFFICIAL MINUTES CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION June 6, 2005 The meeting convened at 6:33 p.m. Councilmembers present: John Basill, Paul Omodt, Susan Sanger, Sue Santa, Sally Velick and Mayor Jeff Jacobs. Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Harmening), Outreach Coordinator (Ms. McDonell) and Recording Secretary (Ms. Stegora-Peterson). 1. Human Rights Community Survey Results The following members of the Human Rights Commission (HRC) were present: Matthew Armbrecht (Chair), Karmit Bulman, Michael Cohn, Jason Hutchison, Kristi Rudelius-Palmer, Kristin Siegesmund and Shelly Taylor. Ms. McDonnell reviewed the staff report. Mr. Armbrecht indicated the survey was a beginning to identify who was in the community and the issues that they wanted to spend their time on. He reviewed the community response ideas for discussion listed in the report. Councilmember Santa noted in her ward, many apartments have high Hispanic populations, who typically don’t attend events, and are often single without children. How were they thinking about moving forward and were they going to concentrate on both people who live and work in St. Louis Park? Mr. Armbrecht indicated they wanted to hear from people who worked in the community and believed they were a part of the community and wanted to make them feel welcomed. Councilmember Santa asked if they were engaging employees? Ms. McDonell replied that was an area that they missed and could address. Councilmember Santa stated they needed to follow up on that piece, or not even start. The English as a Second Language program at Central community center was an area where people from different countries interact in the community and children also interact. That would be an area to focus on. Councilmember Omodt referred to the idea of the diversity fair. He felt it would be good to integrate diversity with existing events, which would be more welcoming as opposed to a stand-alone event. They should program it into what they were already doing which would make people feel more comfortable. Ms. Taylor indicated that the Commission wanted to look to the leadership of varying groups and ask what they thought should be done. St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 3d - SS Minutes June 6, 2005 Page 2 Councilmember Finkelstein indicated the Council has had discussions regarding board and commissions and if membership should be limited to only residents of St. Louis Park. Mr. Armbrecht indicated the HRC had also discussed the issue. Councilmember Santa thought there was an opportunity to foster leadership in diverse populations. Councilmember Basill referred to schools being diverse. He suggested that the Commission bring this to the School Board and also Community Education (CEAC). Councilmember Finkelstein stated there is a large percentage of non native-born Americans which was very exciting and would serve them well. He had an interest in learning more about other cultures and believed that an Ambassador program would be good for people to learn more about other cultures. They could have a list of interested people who could help people to understand others differences. There were also many hours available for public television and they could interview people from different cultures for programming. Ms. Siegesmund suggested engaging high school students in the interviewing and production. Councilmember Santa added it would be interesting to interview students from different cultures about what their experiences had been. Mr. Armbrecht noted one of their goals was to identify leadership. Councilmember Finkelstein stated that disability and age issues were also important. Councilmember Sanger asked what the Commissions intended to do with the information? Ms. Taylor noted that the survey was not statistically accurate. They needed to understand various groups better. Mr. Armbrecht noted they were pleased to have write-in comments on the surveys. They were interested in getting the Council’s ideas and how they felt some of the issues should be addressed. Councilmember Finkelstein suggested that the HRC go before the Rotary club. Ms. Rudelius-Palmer believed they needed to have a dialogue and referred to the City of Chaska where they had an open dialogue on race done by the Police Chief. Ms. McDonell noted in the survey that the Police came out well. The highest percent of discrimination occurred in neighborhoods, stores and shops. People who are multi racial or scattered religions didn’t feel as welcomed. Lower income residents didn’t feel as welcomed. The Somali community showed a high level of satisfaction and felt valued. People with disabilities did not feel as safe. They needed to find out why that was. Councilmember Sanger stated that once they had starting obtaining data, they had an obligation to do something with it. St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 3d - SS Minutes June 6, 2005 Page 3 Ms. McDonell asked if the Council felt something needed to be addressed now or if there were concerns? Councilmember Finkelstein noted there were few responses from Russian residents. Mr. Armbrecht noted that surveys were put out for people. They recognized they would learn from this. Councilmember Velick was concerned by the rise from 11 to 18% in negative feelings. They should possibly connect with a think tank and find out where to go. The forum was also a good idea. Councilmember Santa felt cautionary because this was a small, self-selected sampling. She was concerned about the socio economic piece and people who lived in apartments, who were self isolating because they didn’t feel like they could afford the same things and older people. Mr. Harmening noted that the vast majority of respondents were women. There may be gender issues coupled with diversity. Ms. Siegesmund noted that there was a huge response from Aquila School and the survey was probably filled out by many of the mothers. Ms. McDonell stated when the Vision Outcome survey was done, it did not ask race or disability. This survey had a higher population of racial minorities. They would add that question to the Vision survey this year to confirm a few of these things. Councilmember Sanger stated a number of comments were bigoted religiously. They may want to look at that further. Mr. Hutchison thought one way was to reach out to different communities and identify leadership. Another was to find leadership and let them know that the Commission is available. There was an educational issue. Ms. Siegesmund asked for guidance from the Council. They had a very small budget. If they were to go to a think tank, or do more surveys, it would require more funding. Councilmember Basill suggested the Commission bring the survey results before the School Board or PTO’s. Schools were very diverse. They could build off that because they meet parents from different backgrounds. They could also go to the Rotary and businesses who could reach out with employment opportunities. These did not require funding. Councilmember Finkelstein believed educating people on different cultures was important. People needed to be treated with respect and dignity. Councilmember Sanger suggested presenting the videos and doing interviews on public television. The Council would consider funding if the Commission prioritized their ideas. Mr. Harmening noted they were in the process of putting together the 2006 budget. St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 3d - SS Minutes June 6, 2005 Page 4 Councilmember Velick liked the idea of the Police being involved in seminars, which wouldn’t cost a lot. Councilmember Sanger suggested they work with the Police Advisory Commission. Mr. Cohn presented videos: Understanding Disabilities and Outreach and Understanding Assistive Technology. Ms. McDonell stated that they would bring forward a new Work Plan and focus on community education through forums and cable television. Councilmember Sanger believed that the suggestions made by the HRC were positive and she supported them. They needed to take it further and prioritize. The next step would be for the Commission Work Plan to submit their next work plan. Ms. Rudelius-Palmer asked for the leadership of the Council. She saw a need for an integration when planning events and asked that the HRC be included and that there be a team approach. Mayor Jacobs described a seminar he attended about cultural differences, which was very valuable. He would like to see something like that where there were discussion about cultural differences. Ms. Rudelius-Palmer also suggested a Youth Advisory Board to the City Council as something to consider. Mayor Jacobs noted they had something similar. The meeting adjourned at 7:18 p.m. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ City Clerk Mayor St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 4a - Public Purpose Expenditure Policy Page 1 4a. Motion to approve Resolution to adopt the updated Public Purpose Expenditure Policy and rescind prior Resolution Nos. 00-055 and 03-013. Background: The purpose of this report is to inform the Council about the updates needed in our Public Purpose Expenditure Policy. We are recommending Council delete two older resolutions and replace with a new policy section for the Employee Personnel Manual. In this action, if approved, Council will: 1. approve resolution to adopt the updated Public Purpose Expenditure Policy. 2. rescind Resolution Nos. 00-055 and 03-013. Below is the detailed description of changes: What is Resolution 00-055? This resolution relates to the Departing Employee Recognition Program, Employee Service Recognition Program, and the Annual Recognition Banquet. We recommend rescinding this resolution and replacing it with the updated Public Purpose Expenditure Policy (attached). What is Resolution 03-013? It is the Public Purpose Expenditure Policy. For ease of recordkeeping and tracking policy amendments, we recommend this resolution be rescinded and replaced with the updated Public Purpose Expenditure Policy (attached). What has changed in the new policy? ¤ Meetings: food/meals – removed the sentence “Coffee is provided by the City for employees at City buildings.” For the past several years, our practice has been employees who drink coffee now share this cost. ¤ Membership and Dues – no changes. ¤ Membership in the Local Chamber of Commerce – no changes. ¤ Employee Service Recognition Program – After conducting a survey of other Stanton Group V cities, it became apparent that St. Louis Park’s monetary value of employee recognition gifts for years of service was significantly below average. Our previous program allowed for a $30 gift certificate for 5 years of service, $40 for 10 years, $50 for 15 years, etc. We recommend increasing the value to $10 per year of service, in five year increments (i.e., $50 for 5 years of service, $100 for 10 years, $150 for 15 years, etc). This will become effective July 1, 2005. ¤ Departing Employee Recognition Program – Combined and re-wrote two previous programs from Resolutions 00-055 and 03-013 for ease of use and administration. ¤ Annual Employee Recognition Meal and Program – Changed language from a “banquet” provided only for recognized employees to a “meal” provided for all employees. In recent years, we have celebrated employee recognition with a luncheon meeting, which allows for higher employee attendance. Funding: Funds for the increased cost in the Employee Service Recognition Program are included in the annual budget. Recommendation: The attached resolution will add this policy to our personnel manual. St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 4a - Public Purpose Expenditure Policy Page 2 Attachments: Resolution & Policy (Appendix A) Prepared by: Ali Fosse, HR Coordinator Reviewed by: Nancy Gohman, Director of Human Resources Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 4a - Public Purpose Expenditure Policy Page 3 RESOLUTION NO. 05-087 RESOLUTION ADDING THE PUBLIC PURPOSE EXPENDITURE POLICY TO THE CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK PERSONNEL MANUAL WHEREAS, The City Council wishes to adopt policies for City employees which ensure adequate compensation, leave and benefits for City employees and which protect the ethical standards of the City of St. Louis Park; and WHEREAS, The City Council has conferred upon the City Manager the power to establish and administer additional administrative policies and rules as may be appropriate to administer the employment practices of the City; NOW THEREFORE LET IT BE RESOLVED THAT, The City Council of the City of St. Louis Park hereby rescinds Resolutions 00-055 and 03-013 and approves the resolution adopting the Public Purpose Expenditure Policy (attached as Appendix A) to be added to the personnel manual: Reviewed for Administration Adopted by the City Council June 20, 2005 City Manage r: Mayor: Attest: City Clerk: St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 4a - Public Purpose Expenditure Policy Page 4 APPENDIX A RESOLUTION NO. 05-_________ CITY OF ST LOUIS PARK PUBLIC PURPOSE EXPENDITURE POLICY Every City of St. Louis Park expenditure must be valid based upon the public purpose for which it is purchased and the specific or implied authority for the expenditure found in the City Charter or State Law. Section 1.02 of the City Charter provides that the City “Shall have and exercise all powers, functions, rights and privileges exercised by, or which are incidental to or inherent in, municipal corporations and are not denied to it by the constitution or general laws of the State of Minnesota.” Minnesota Statutes § 412.111 provides that the City Council may fix the compensation of all officers and employees. The City Council has determined that the expenditures below are for a public purpose authorized by law or charter. Meetings: food/meals The City Council recognizes that situations in which City business needs to be discussed can and do occur during meal hours (i.e. luncheon meetings). In addition, there are public and employee meetings and events in which reasonable refreshments may add to the success of the meeting and/or event or create a more productive work force. Meals are allowed at training or meetings only when they are part of a meeting or training involving official City business and when it is the only practical time to meet. The following items are deemed to meet the Council definition of public purpose expenditures in regards to food and meals. • Meals and refreshments are allowed at City/employee meetings and events that have a purpose of discussing City issues, or are a part of employee training. These meetings would normally have a pre-planned agenda. This does not include routine staff meetings. • Meals and refreshments are allowed when they are part of a breakfast/lunch/dinner meeting for official City business when it is the only practical time to meet. Usually these meals involve meeting with Council members, committee/commission members, or local business/service organizations. • Meals and refreshments are allowed during official meetings of the City Council, Council committees, advisory boards/commissions, and taskforces. • Expense reimbursement for travel expenses for employees are outlined in the personnel policy, as approved by Council resolution 01-078. • Refreshments are allowed at Welcome Break, open to staff several times per year, to allow employees time to network and meet new staff members. • CITE (the Committee to Inform and Train Employees) is recognized as the employee committee, which is responsible for organizing and sponsoring various city employee training and networking activities. CITE expenditures are for food, refreshments and various St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 4a - Public Purpose Expenditure Policy Page 5 expenses which encourage employees to work together to serve the City. CITE must obtain pre-approval from Human Resources to expend up to $1,500 per calendar year for planned employee activities. CITE funds must be approved and part of the Human Resources budget. • Meals and refreshments are allowed at the annual City Volunteer event and annual seasonal/temporary recognition events. • The City will not purchase or reimburse any employee, Council member or agent for the purchase of intoxicating liquor or malt beverages. Membership and dues The City Council has determined that the City will fund memberships and dues for the City, Council members and its employees in professional organizations and City social and community organizations when the purpose is to promote, advertise, improve, or develop the City’s resources and advantages and not personal interest or gain. Membership in the local Chamber of Commerce The Mission of the TwinWest Chamber of Commerce is, in part, to improve the business environment and build a better community. Toward that end, the St. Louis Park Business Council was formed as a forum for local businesses and government to work together to ensure that business opportunities in St. Louis Park are diverse and progressive, and that laws, rules and procedures enacted by local government are conducive to business operations in the City. The City of St. Louis Park will maintain membership in the TwinWest Chamber of Commerce and will participate as an equal partner in the St. Louis Park Business Council as a means of promoting, advertising, improving, and developing the economic resources of the City. Employee Service Recognition Program The City of St. Louis Park will recognize the longevity of its employees by presenting awards for years of service. The Employee Service Recognition Program will recognize all benefit earning regular and part-time employees who work 20 or more hours a week, year round for the City of St. Louis Park. Awards will be presented to employees on or near the date of their employment anniversary (in five year increments) by the department director and/or supervisor. In recognition of their years of service to the City, effective July 1, 2005, employees will receive a gift certificate to an establishment of their choice in the amount of $10 for each year of service, in 5 year increments. For example, an employee celebrating a 15th anniversary with the City would get a gift certificate in the amount of $150 to the establishment of his or her choice. If requested, employees may instead choose to purchase a memento (clock, watch, pen, etc) that costs approximately what their gift certificate would have been, and the City will pay to have the memento engraved with the employee’s name, title, length of service, date, and City name. Departing Employee Recognition Program St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 4a - Public Purpose Expenditure Policy Page 6 The City of St. Louis Park will recognize employees when they retire or depart from the City in good standing by presenting awards based on their years of service. The Employee Retirement Recognition Program will recognize all benefit earning regular and part-time employees who work 20 or more hours a week, year round for the City of St. Louis Park. Upon retirement or resignation in good standing as determined by the City Manager: • 5-9 years: Certificate of appreciation from Mayor and City Manager. • 10-19 years: Framed certificate of appreciation from Mayor and City Manager. • 20+ years: Plaque and resolution presented by the Mayor, City Manager, and City Council. Awards for 10 or more years of service will be presented by the City Council and the City Manager at a Council meeting following the resignation or retirement of the employee. Annual Employee Recognition Meal and Program Annually, the City will sponsor an employee recognition meal and program at which benefit earning employees and paid-on-call firefighters reaching 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 30+ years of service will be recognized. Employees, paid-on-call firefighters, honored invited guests (such as retirees, Mayor, and Council members), and others as approved by the City Manager will have their meal provided at no cost. The program will also include recognition of department and employee accomplishments, including the presentation of the Spirit of St. Louis Park Award. Cost of the elements of the recognition meal and program will be included in the Human Resources budget. Financial considerations Funding for any expenditure above must be included in the appropriate department budget. St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 4b - Bid Tab 2005 State Aid Street Rehab Page 1 4b. Bid Tabulation: Motion to designate Valley Paving Inc. the lowest responsible bidder and authorize execution of a contract with the firm in the amount of $843,724.12 for the 2005 Municipal State Aid Street Rehabilitation Project – City Project No. 2004-1100 Background: Bids were received on June 9, 2005 for the 2005 Municipal State Aid Street Rehabilitation Project. The streets included in this year’s project include Texas Avenue from Cedar Lake Road to Wayzata Blvd, Wayzata Blvd from Texas Avenue to CP Railroad east of Colorado Avenue, and Colorado Avenue from Cedar Lake Road to Wayzata Blvd. These streets will either be reconstructed or receive a mill and overlay depending on their condition. Other work associated with the project includes drainage system repairs and replacement of a portion of sanitary sewer on Texas Avenue. A total of seven (7) bids were received for this project. An advertisement for bids was published in the St. Louis Park Sun-Sailor on May 19 and 26, 2005, and in the Construction Bulletin on May 20 and 27, 2005. A summary of the bid results is as follows: CONTRACTOR BID AMOUNT Valley Paving* $843,724.12 Midwest Asphalt Corporation $851,326.04 Hardrives, Inc. $856,028.64 Frattalone Paving* $948,031.30 Park Construction $986,182.66 C.S. McCrossan. $1,034,282.70 Bituminous Roadways* $1,036,259.20 Engineer’s Estimate $981,209.00 *Bid corrected upon extension Evaluation of Bids: Staff has reviewed all of the bids submitted and has tabulated the results. From the review, staff recommends Valley Paving as the lowest responsible bidder. Valley Paving is a reputable contractor who has worked for the city before. Financial Considerations: The 2005 CIP budgeted $986,632 for the street construction work and $250,000 for the sanitary sewer repair for a total estimated project cost of $1,236,632. The street work will paid using Municipal State Aid Funds (Gas tax monies), the sanitary sewer repairs will be paid using Utility Funds and any expenses ineligible for State Aid funding will be paid from the Pavement Management Fund. Construction Timeline: The contractor anticipates beginning work in early July. All of the project work will be completed by mid-September. Prepared By: Jim Olson, Engineering Project Manager Reviewed By: Scott Brink, City Engineer Michael P. Rardin, Director of Public Works Approved By: Tom Harmening, City Manager St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 4c - Fred Dolton resolution Page 1 RESOLUTION NO. 05-084 RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA, RECOGNIZING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF AND EXPRESSING APPRECIATION TO FRED DOLTON WHEREAS, Fred Dolton began his employment with the City of St. Louis Park over 33 years ago on Jan 24, 1972; and WHEREAS, through his commitment, drive, and professionalism, Fred has earned the respect of peers, supervisors and residents; and WHEREAS, Fred has dedicated most of his adult life to keeping the streets of St. Louis Park free of potholes, leaves, and of course, snow and ice; and WHEREAS, Fred has faithfully served his fellow 49er Union members as friend, mentor and steward (always putt-ing them first); and WHEREAS, Fred has officially traded the keys of his dump truck for the keys to his new golf cart – appropriately named 0007; and WHEREAS, Fred will spend more time iron-ing out home-improvement projects, enjoying his family (including 2 grandchildren), and playing a round of Saturday golf (of course every day is now Saturday); NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota, by this resolution and public record, would like to thank Fred Dolton for his outstanding contributions and 33 years of dedicated service to the City of St. Louis Park and wish him the best in his retirement. Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the City Council June 20, 2005 City Manager Mayor Attest: City Clerk St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 4d - HA Board minutes May 11 Page 1 MINUTES Housing Authority St. Louis Park City Hall, Westwood Room St. Louis Park, Minnesota May 11, 2005 5:00 p.m. MEMBERS PRESENT: Commissioners Catherine Courtney, Andria Daniel, Steve Fillbrandt, Anne Mavity and Judith Moore STAFF PRESENT: Sharon Anderson, Jane Klesk, Kevin Locke and Michele Schnitker 1. Call to Order Commissioner Courtney called the meeting to order at 5:03 p.m. 2. Approval of Minutes for April, 2005 The April 13, 2005 minutes were unanimously approved. 3. Hearings – None 4. Reports and Committees – None 5. Unfinished Business – None 6. New Business a. Approval of Submission of Applications for Section 8 and Public Housing FSS Coordinator Grant Ms. Schnitker explained two applications the HA plans to submit in response to HUD’s Super Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) for Family Self Sufficiency Coordinator funds. One application would support Section 8 participants and the other Public Housing participants, through TRAILS, the HA’s family self sufficiency program, through FYE 2007. Commissioner Mavity moved to approve submission of applications for Section 8 and Public Housing FSS Coordinator Grant, and Commissioner Daniel seconded the motion. The motion passed 5-0 with Commissioners Courtney, Daniel, Fillbrandt, Mavity and Moore voting in favor. b. Approval of Submission of Application for Four units of Sponsored Based Shelter Plus Care – Community Involvement Program Ms. Schnitker stated that Community Involvement Program has requested that the HA partner with them on submitting an application for four additional units of St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 4d - HA Board minutes May 11 Page 2 Sponsored Based Shelter Plus Care rental assistance, in the amount of $156,240 for a five year period. Commissioner Mavity moved to approve submission of the application for four additional units of Sponsored Based Shelter Plus Care with Community Involvement Program, and Commissioner Fillbrandt seconded the motion. The motion passed 5-0 with Commissioners Courtney, Daniel, Fillbrandt, Mavity and Moore voting in favor. There was further discussion regarding PPL’s request for partnering with St. Louis Park HA on submitting an application for eight units of Sponsored Based Shelter Plus Care, located in a development in Minneapolis. Commissioner Mavity moved to approve the application for eight units of Sponsor Based Shelter Plus Care, providing the CIP application is treated with priority, and providing staff negotiates an 8% administrative fee. Commissioner Moore seconded the motion, and the motion passed 5-0 with Commissioners Courtney, Daniel, Fillbrandt, Mavity and Moore voting in favor. The Board directed staff to communicate their concern to Hennepin County at being required to assume this role, and asked that staff initiate discussions concerning future projects. c. Approval of Section 8 Management Assessment Program (SEMAP) Certification Ms. Schnitker explained HUD’s SEMAP Certification process. Commissioner Fillbrandt moved to approve the Section 8 Management Assessment Program (SEMAP) Certification, and Commissioner Moore seconded the motion. The motion passed 5-0 with Commissioners Courtney, Daniel, Fillbrandt, Mavity and Moore voting in favor. d. Approval of Public Housing Assessment System (PHAS) Certification Ms. Schnitker explained the PHAS Certification process. Commissioner Mavity moved to approve Resolution No. 537, Approving the Submission of the Public Housing Assessment System (PHAS) Management Operations Certification for Fiscal Year Ending March 31, 2005, and Commissioner Daniel seconded the motion. The motion passed 5-0 with Commissioners Courtney, Daniel, Fillbrandt, Mavity and Moore voting in favor. 7. Communications from Executive Director a. Claims List No. 5-2005 Commissioner Fillbrandt moved for ratification of Claims List No. 5-2005, and Commissioner Mavity seconded the motion. The motion passed 5-0, with Commissioners Courtney, Daniel, Fillbrandt, Mavity and Moore voting in favor. b. Communications 1. Strategic Plan 2. Update – Excess Public Land Task Force St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 4d - HA Board minutes May 11 Page 3 Commissioner Fillbrandt provided a brief update on the activities of the Excess Public Land Task Force. 3. Monthly Report for May, 2005 4. Scattered-Site Houses and Hamilton House (verbal report) 5. Draft Financial Statements 8. Other 9. Adjournment Commissioner Moore moved to adjourn the meeting, and Commissioner Fillbrandt seconded the motion. The motion passed 5-0, with Commissioners Courtney, Daniel, Fillbrandt, Mavity and Moore voting in favor. The meeting was adjourned at 6:27 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Anne Mavity, Secretary St. Louis Park City Council Meeting Item: 062005 - 6a - PH Legion Liquor License Page 1 6a. Public Hearing to consider an application for a Club On-Sale Intoxicating Liquor License for the Frank Lundberg American Legion Post 282 located at 5605 W 36th St in St. Louis Park Recommended Action: Mayor to close public hearing. Motion to approve the application for a Club Liquor License Background: In May of 2005, the City received a request from the Frank Lundberg American Legion Post 282 for a club on-sale intoxicating liquor license for the American Legion located at 5605 36th St W in St. Louis Park. The American Legion is a nonprofit federally chartered veteran’s membership organization or club with three million members in 15 thousand posts worldwide. They will serve alcohol and food to paying customers as a means of fundraising for charitable work. A VFW club previously operated in the space that will be occupied by American Legion. The VFW is closing and members thought it important to continue to have a servicemen’s organization in the City of St. Louis Park. A public hearing notice was published on June 9, 2005 and no calls have been received in response to the notice. The American Legion Post 282 club is expected to open on July 1, 2005. Application: The Police Department has conducted a full investigation of the American Legion Post 282 Vice Commander Thomas Schottenbauer and Commander Warren Tallakson, and have found nothing in the course of their investigation that would warrant denial of the license. The application and Police report are on file in the Office of the City Clerk should Councilmembers wish to review the information prior to the public hearing. Recommendation: The applicant has met all requirements for issuance of the license and staff is recommending approval. Prepared by: Nancy Stroth, Deputy City Clerk Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 6b - 16th St W Vacation Page 1 6b. Public Hearing to consider Vacation of a portion of 16th Street West near Lamplighter Pond First reading of an ordinance vacating a portion of 16th Street near Lamplighter Pond as required by Easement Agreement between the Park Assembly of God Church and the City of St. Louis Park for the construction of Lamplighter Pond. Recommended Action: Mayor to close the public hearing. Motion to approve first reading of an ordinance vacating right-of- way along a portion of 16th Street West and set second reading for July 5, 2005. Background: In late 2004, the City Council approved several resolutions and an easement agreement to finalize the construction of Lamplighter Pond which is located in the City’s Pennsylvania Park neighborhood, near Texas and Franklin Avenues. The easement agreement, between the City and the Park Assembly of God Church, calls for the City to vacate a portion of 16th Street West that has never been constructed. The construction of Lamplighter Pond makes the future construction of that portion of 16th Street West extraordinarily unlikely. This right-of-way vacation is required as part of the easement agreement. The same easement agreement calls upon the City to replat the Park Assembly of God Church’s existing land. Upon approval of the right-of-way vacation, the City will begin a process to replat the parcels making up the Park Assembly of God Church property. Replatting the parcels will enable the Park Assembly of God Church to make better use of its property, including better access points along Texas Avenue. The City will retain a utility and drainage easement over the vacated portion of land. Those portions of the easement agreement requiring the vacation and replatting were offered to the Park Assembly of God Church in exchange for a drainage easement over a sizeable portion of the expanded Lamplighter Pond. Recommendation: Motion to adopt first reading of an Ordinance vacating right-of-way along a portion of 16th Street West and to set second reading for July 5, 2005. Attachments: Location Map Portion of Lamplighter Pond Easement Agreement Proposed Ordinance Amending Zoning Map Designation Prepared by: Adam Fulton, Associate Planner Reviewed by: Kevin Locke, Community Development Director Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 6b - 16th St W Vacation Page 2 ORDINANCE NO. _____ - 05 AN ORDINANCE VACATING RIGHT-OF-WAY Portion of 16th Street THE CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK DOES ORDAIN: Section 1. A petition in writing signed by a majority of all of the owners of all property abutting upon both sides of the right-of-way proposed to be vacated has been duly filed. The notice of said petition has been published, in the St. Louis Park Sailor, on June 9, 2005 and the City Council has conducted a public hearing upon said petition and has determined that the right-of-way is not needed for public purposes, and that it is for the best interest of the public that said right-of-way be vacated. Section 2. The following described right-of-way as now dedicated and laid out within the corporate limits of the City of St. Louis Park, is vacated: That part of Douglass Avenue, as dedicated in Beebe’s Out Lots, according to said plat on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder, Hennepin County, Minnesota, now known as 16th Street West, being a strip of land 33.00 feet in width. Said strip of land is to extend by its full width from the easterly right-of-way line of Texas Avenue South to the west line of the east 600.00 feet of the Southwest Quarter of the Southwest Quarter of Section 5, Township 117, Range 21, Hennepin County, Minnesota. reserving, however, to the City of St. Louis Park any and all easements that may exist in, over, and across the described property for storm sewer, sanitary sewer, water main, and public utility purposes. Section 3. The City Clerk is instructed to record certified copies of this ordinance in the Office of the Hennepin County Register of Deeds or Registrar of Titles as the case may be. Section 4. This Ordinance shall take effect fifteen days after its publication. Adopted by the City Council July 5, 2005 Reviewed for Administration City Manager Mayor Attest: Approved as to Form and Execution: City Clerk City Attorney St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 8a - Sams Club - Z and CP - CC Page 1 8a. Request of Sam’s Club for a Comprehensive Plan Map amendment from Industrial to Commercial and a Zoning Map amendment from IG – General Industrial to C2 – General Commercial for property located at 7115 W. Lake Street. Case Nos. 05-17-CP and 05-16-Z. Recommended Action: Motion to adopt Resolution amending the Comprehensive Plan to change the land use designation from Industrial to Commercial at 7115 W. Lake Street. Motion to adopt first reading of an Ordinance amending the Official Zoning Map changing the zoning designation from IG – General Industrial to C2 – General Commercial at 7115 W. Lake Street and to set second reading for July 5, 2005. Current Zoning: IG – General Industrial Comprehensive Plan Designation: Industrial Parcel Size: 4.22 Acres Current Land Use: Parking Proposed Land Use: Retail Other required approvals: CUP Background Sam’s Club (Sam’s Real Estate Business Trust) has applied for a comprehensive plan amendment and a rezoning of the property located at 7115 West Lake Street. In April and May of 2004, a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for the same Sam’s Club was reviewed and approved by the Planning Commission and City Council. Sam’s Club subsequently chose not to utilize the CUP, and instead altered its plans to demolish the existing store and make changes throughout the entire parcel rather than focusing only on the portion of the parcel zoned C-2. The new plans require amendments to the Comprehensive Plan and the Official Zoning Map. As required by City Code, a public hearing was held at the Planning Commission’s May 18, 2005 meeting regarding the proposed amendments. No residents spoke either in favor of or against the proposal. The Planning Commission, after deliberating, passed a motion to recommend approval of both proposed amendments. One issue of particular concern to the Planning Commission was the changing status of industrial lands within the City. After discussing the issue further, the Planning Commission concluded that the parcel’s ultimate use was more closely tied to commercial uses than to industrial uses, and therefore it was acceptable to amend the parcel’s Comprehensive Plan and zoning designations. Issues: ¤ What is the Comprehensive Plan and zoning history of the properties? ¤ What is the current status of the existing industrial property? ¤ What other uses would be permitted under the proposed rezoning? ¤ How will the proposed Comprehensive Plan & zoning amendments affect neighboring properties? ¤ What issues may arise as part of the forthcoming CUP review? St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 8a - Sams Club - Z and CP - CC Page 2 What is the Comprehensive Plan and zoning history of the property? The property in question, 7115 West Lake Street, was previously home to Cardinal Glass. Proximity to rail service and Highway 7 made the site a high-quality location for industrial uses. In addition, the site is far from any residential uses which would otherwise be negatively impacted by an industrial use. Under the plan approved for the remodeling of the existing Sam’s Club, the site currently in question would have been used as an off-street parking lot for Sam’s Club along with a gas station. In that scenario, no Comprehensive Plan or zoning amendments were required. What is the current status of the existing industrial property? The former Cardinal Glass building was constructed in 1962. Recently, Sam’s Club purchased the site and demolished the Cardinal Glass building for a proposed parking lot. At the present time, the property remains vacant. The IG General Industrial zoning district is intended to provide locations for large and small scale industrial enterprises, including such uses as manufacturing, processing, assembly, storage and warehousing. As such, the IG district is the least restrictive industrial zoning district. Sam’s Club applied and received approval to replat the existing lots last year at the same time as their application for a CUP. The replatting process created a contiguous lot containing more than one zoning district. The proposed amendment to the zoning map will place the entire property in a single zoning district. As industrial uses within the City are continually changing, staff expects that alternative uses will enter former industrial districts. To proactively address the changing status of industrial lands in the City, staff has begun a study of all remaining industrial properties, including industrial uses located outside of industrial zoning districts. The industrial study will have multiple phases, with the first and current phase being data collection. The first phase will provide a complete inventory of industrial properties in the City, to be used to evaluate the future of industrial uses in the City. How will the proposed Comprehensive Plan & zoning amendments affect neighboring properties? The proposed Comprehensive Plan and zoning amendment will extend an existing commercial district to Louisiana Avenue. To the west of the site is a large industrial area that will not be impacted by the proposed amendments. To the north the site is bordered by Lake Street and Highway 7. To the east of Sam’s Club is the Golden Auto site, currently zoned C2. Polluted soils have hindered development at the Golden Auto site for many years. At this time, staff is hopeful that redevelopment plans for the site will continue to move forward and will result in an office warehouse / manufacturing / showroom complex within the next several years. Real Estate Recycling, a firm specializing in re-use of polluted sites, is currently leading the development proposal. The proposed Comprehensive Plan and zoning amendments are not incompatible with the land uses proposed for the Golden Auto site. Methodist Hospital currently uses portions of that site for the purpose of employee parking. It is expected that shared parking will continue, regardless of future development at the Golden Auto site. St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 8a - Sams Club - Z and CP - CC Page 3 To the south of the site is the Southwest Light Rail Corridor, currently home to freight rail transportation and regional pedestrian and bicycle trails. The Southwest Light Rail Transportation Corridor is currently at the “Alternatives Analysis” stage of study where the potential success of light rail must be judged in comparison to other available methods of transportation. Funding for continued study of light rail in the Southwest Corridor comes from the Hennepin County Regional Railroad Authority. What other uses would be permitted under the proposed rezoning? C2 General Commercial Zoning District Permitted Permitted with Conditions Conditional Use Permit Medical / dental office Dry cleaning Fuel station Funeral homes Animal handling Vehicle sales Libraries Small engine repair Vehicle service and repair Museums Clubs and lodges – no liquor Restaurants – liquor Banks Food service Clubs and Lodges – liquor Business schools Hotel / Motel Multi-family housing Offices Outdoor sales Elderly housing Retail up to 20,000 sq. ft. Printing facilities Private entertainment – liquor Studios Private entertainment – no liquor Post office Showrooms Restaurants – no liquor Drive through service Parking lot Shopping Centers Retail Stores over 20,000 sq. ft. Transit stations Parking ramps Shopping Centers Pawnshops Sexually Oriented Businesses Educational Facilities Large item retail Multi-family housing Numerous commercial uses would be permitted under the proposed rezoning. However, there are no permitted uses in the C-2 zoning district that generate greater impacts than the proposed Sam’s Club retail store. Retail operations exceeding 20,000 square feet in size require a Conditional Use Permit. The proposed structure is approximately 150,000 square feet, so Sam’s Club plans to apply for a CUP following the proceedings to amend the Comprehensive Plan and zoning map. Under the 2004 redevelopment scheme for Sam’s Club, no amendments to the Comprehensive Plan or zoning map were required. However, the entire site would have remained in commercial use. This results from the fact that parking lots are a permitted use in the I-G General Industrial zoning district. Because the building will be located on the northerly portion of the site, rezoning is required. Retail stores are not permitted in the I-G zoning district. The City ultimately benefits from the changed location of the building because parking will be shielded from Highway 7. The proposed rezoning will eliminate the already remote possibility that the Sam’s Club site will revert to industrial uses. St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 8a - Sams Club - Z and CP - CC Page 4 What issues may arise as part of the forthcoming CUP review? Sam’s Club has indicated that it will apply for a Conditional Use Permit following approval of the amendments to the Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Map. Retail stores over 20,000 square feet are allowed by CUP in the C-2 Zoning District. A CUP is required to ensure that no adverse impacts will occur as a result of the retail store. The CUP results in careful examination of site items including impacts on traffic, access, circulation, landscaping and bufferyards. Several site issues were resolved through the previous CUP approval process. Staff anticipates some issues to be analyzed and renewed with the forthcoming CUP application, including available parking during construction, the location of truck docks, the building orientation along Lake Street and Louisiana Avenue, building materials, opportunities for shared parking with Methodist Hospital on the Golden Auto Site, and stormwater considerations, including how the redevelopment of the Sam’s Club site will effect the regional stormwater system. Recommendation: Motion to adopt Resolution amending the Comprehensive Plan to change the land use designation from Industrial to Commercial at 7115 W. Lake Street. Motion to approve first reading of an Ordinance amending the Official Zoning Map changing the zoning designation from IG – General Industrial to C2 – General Commercial at 7115 W. Lake Street and to set second reading for July 5, 2005. Attachments: Location Map Existing and Proposed Comprehensive Plan Map Existing and Proposed Zoning Map Building Elevations for Proposed Sam’s Club (2) Excerpts, Planning Commission Minutes. May 18, 2005. Resolution Amending Comprehensive Plan Designation Proposed Ordinance Amending Zoning Map Designation Prepared by: Adam Fulton, Associate Planner Reviewed by: Kevin Locke, Community Development Director Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 8a - Sams Club - Z and CP - CC Page 5 ORDINANCE NO._____ - 05 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ST. LOUIS PARK ORDINANCE CODE CHANGING BOUNDARIES OF ZONING DISTRICTS 7115 WEST LAKE STREET THE CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK DOES ORDAIN: Section 1. The City Council has considered the advice and recommendation of the Planning Commission (Case No. 05-16-Z). Section 2. The St. Louis Park Zoning Ordinance adopted December 28, 1959, Ordinance No. 730; amended December 31, 1992, Ordinance No. 1902-93, amended December 17, 2001, Ordinance No. 2216-01, as heretofore amended, is hereby further amended by changing the zoning district boundaries by reclassifying the following described lands from their existing land use district classification to the new land use district classification as indicated for the tract as hereinafter set forth, to wit: Northerly 390 feet of Lot 1, Block 1, Sam’s Club Addition from IG - General Industrial to C2 - General Commercial. Section 3. The contents of Planning Case File 05-16-Z are hereby entered into and made part of the public hearing record and the record of decision for this case. Section 4. The ordinance shall take effect upon Metropolitan Council approval of associated Comprehensive Plan amendment. Adopted by the City Council July 5, 2005 Reviewed for Administration City Manager Mayor Attest: Approved as to Form and Execution: City Clerk City Attorney res-ord/2005/05-16-Z St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 8a - Sams Club - Z and CP - CC Page 6 RESOLUTION NO. 05 - 085 A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN AMENDMENT TO THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2000 TO THE YEAR 2020 FOR THE CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES 462.351 TO 462.364 7115 WEST LAKE STREET WHEREAS, the Comprehensive Plan 2000-2020 was adopted by the City Council on May 17, 1999 (effective September 1, 1999) and provides the following: 1. An official statement serving as the basic guide in making land use, transportation and community facilities and service decisions affecting the City. 2. A framework for policies and actions leading to the improvement of the physical, financial, and social environment of the City, thereby providing a good place to live and work and a setting conducive for new development. 3. A promotion of the public interest in establishing a more functional, healthful, interesting, and efficient community by serving the interests of the community at large rather than the interests of individual or special groups within the community if their interests are at variance with the public interest. 4. An effective framework for direction and coordination of activities affecting the development and preservation of the community. 5. Treatment of the entire community as one ecosystem and to inject long range considerations into determinations affecting short-range action, and WHEREAS, the use of such Comprehensive Plan will insure a safer, more pleasant, and more economical environment for residential, commercial, industrial, and public activities and will promote the public health, safety, and general welfare, and WHEREAS, said Plan will prepare the community for anticipated desirable change, thereby bringing about significant savings in both private and public expenditures, and WHEREAS, the Comprehensive Plan has taken due cognizance of the planning activities of adjacent units of government, and WHEREAS, the Comprehensive Plan is to be periodically reviewed by the Planning Commission of the City of St. Louis Park and amendments made, if justified according to procedures, rules, and laws, and provided such amendments would provide a positive result and are consistent with other provisions in the Comprehensive Plan, and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of St. Louis Park recommended adoption of an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan 2000-2020 on May 18, 2005, based on St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 8a - Sams Club - Z and CP - CC Page 7 statutes, the Metropolitan Regional Blueprint, extensive research and analyses involving the interests of citizens and public agencies; WHEREAS, the City Council has considered the advice and recommendation of the Planning Commission (Case No. 05-17-CP); WHEREAS, the contents of Planning Case File 05-17-CP are hereby entered into and made part of the public hearing record and the record of decision for this case; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of St. Louis Park that the Comprehensive Plan, as previously adopted by the Planning Commission and City Council, is hereby amended as follows: Change the land use designation as shown on the attached map from Industrial to Commercial. Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the City Council June 20, 2005 Contingent upon approval of the Metropolitan Council City Manager Mayor Attest: City Clerk res-ord/2005/05-17-CP St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 8a - Sams Club - Z and CP - CC Page 8 SUMMARY RESOLUTION NO.05 - 085 A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN AMENDMENT TO THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2000 TO THE YEAR 2020 FOR THE CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES 462.351 TO 462.364 7115 West Lake Street This resolution states that the land use designation for property located at 7115 West Lake Street will be changed from Industrial to Commercial. Adopted by the City Council June June 20, 2005 Contingent upon approval of the Metropolitan Council Jeffrey W. Jacobs /s/ Mayor A copy of the full text of this resolution is available for inspection with the City Clerk. Published in St. Louis Park Sailor: June 30, 2005 Res-ord/2005/05-17-CP St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 8b - Request for Public Hearing SSD#4 Page 1 8b. Request for a public hearing to consider the establishment of a special service district along the western portion of Excelsior Boulevard from Highway 100 to Louisiana Avenue and to consider the imposition of a service charge within the district. Recommended Action: Motion to approve a public hearing for July 18, 2005 to consider the establishment of Special Service District #4 and consider the imposition of a service charge within the district. Background Over the past ten years, the city has implemented the Excelsior Boulevard Improvement Program from France Avenue to Highway 100. The program included the installation of special infrastructure such as pedestrian lighting, banner poles, tree lights, and bollards as well as landscaping and irrigation systems. Together they created a visually appealing street theme that is both traffic calming and pedestrian friendly. This infrastructure has received high praise from businesses, residents and visitors. Businesses along the corridor were not assessed for the cost of the improvements or for their installation but agreed to maintain them through “special service districts”. To date, three separate districts have been established along the Excelsior Boulevard corridor. These districts provide the means through which the streetscape improvements are properly maintained. The city is considering similar infrastructure improvements along Excelsior Boulevard west of Highway 100 to Louisiana Avenue between 2006 and 2008 (in conjunction with Hennepin County’s planned street improvements) provided there is sufficient support from commercial property owners. A fourth special service district is proposed to be established to maintain the Excelsior Boulevard streetscape improvements. As with the other three previous improvement projects, the city has worked with adjacent property owners along the western portion of Excelsior Boulevard to arrive at a proposed special service district that would be designed specifically to accommodate their particular needs. Attached is information on the proposed Special Service District #4, the Proposed District Budget and the Proposed Service Charge Allocation as it would impact each commercial property owner in the designated area. What has been the extent of communication with the affected property owners? Three newsletters were mailed to affected commercial property owners regarding how a special service district would operate and how the fees would be calculated and collected. Two information meetings were held (February 3rd and March 3rd.) where more specific information was provided including a Preliminary District Budget and Cost Allocation for each property. Subsequently, city staff and its consultant, Hoisington Koegler Group Inc (HKGi) met individually with various property owners within the proposed area of Special Service District #4 to discuss the potential improvements, the special service district concept, and answer questions relevant to their particular properties. St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 8b - Request for Public Hearing SSD#4 Page 2 In addition, detailed information describing the proposed district and how costs would be allocated was distributed to all property owners. Has the city received the sufficient level of petitions required to hold a public hearing? There are a total of 28 separate, commercial parcels in the proposed District. To date, 9 or 32 % of commercial property owners along the western portion of Excelsior Boulevard have submitted petitions requesting that the City Council conduct a public hearing to discuss the establishment of a special service district and impose service charges pursuant to Minn. Stat. 428A.01 - .101 (2000). These property owners represent approximately 81% of the affected land area and 45% of the tax capacity of property that would be subject to the service charge. According to state statute, 25% of the land area and 25% of the net tax capacity of property subject to the service charge are required to petition in order for the Council to convene a public hearing. What services will the District provide? The District will provide for the maintenance of landscape materials, decorative lighting, banners, the irrigation system as well as electric service (see attached Proposed Operating Budget). Unlike the other three special service districts, the majority of property owners expressed no interest in a higher level of snow and ice removal beyond what the city is currently providing thus snow removal is not part of the proposed District’s budget. Recommendation: Given that the minimum petition requirements have been more than satisfied, staff recommends that the City Council approve the request to conduct a public hearing July 18, 2005 to consider the establishment of a special service district along Excelsior Boulevard between Highway 100 and Louisiana Avenue and consider the imposition of a service charge within the district. Attachments: • Special Service District handouts • Preliminary Operating Budget • Sidewalk Snow Removal Service Options • Preliminary Cost Allocation Prepared by: Greg Hunt, Economic Development Coordinator Reviewed by: Kevin Locke, Community Development Director Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 8c - Meadowbrook Lofts Comp Plan and Zoning Page 1 8c. Request of Emad Abed for a Comprehensive Plan land use amendment and a Zoning map amendment for property located at 7202 and 7252 Excelsior Boulevard. Case Nos. 04-71-CP and 04-72-Z The applicant is requesting the City to reguide and rezone properties to allow a 6-story condominium project. The project will also require a plat and CUP for excavation/fill. In addition, a PUD may be required. Those applications may only be made following action on the Comprehensive Plan amendment and rezoning. Recommended Action: ü Motion to approve resolution amending the Comprehensive Plan Land Use from Office to RC contingent upon review of the Metropolitan Council, approve summary publication and authorize publication. ü Motion to approve first reading of ordinance amending zoning map to change the designation from O-Office to RC-Residential Commercial and set second reading for July 5 , 2005. Site Data: Comprehensive Plan : Existing: Office Proposed: Residential High Density Zoning: Current: O-Office FF-Flood Fringe Proposed: RC-High Density Residential Site Area: 11.6 acres Current Use: Vacant, except for a non-conforming billboard Proposed Density: Approximately 30 units/acre (based on buildable area only; 9.2 units per acre based on entire parcel) Ground Floor Area Ratio Proposed 0.06 Allowed 0.25 St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 8c - Meadowbrook Lofts Comp Plan and Zoning Page 2 Background: The applicant is proposing to reguide and rezone properties to allow for a 6-story, 107-unit condominium building on the subject property. This is a change from the staff report of May 15, 2005, where the proposal included 113 units. The applicant is proposing to increase the unit sizes from that previously presented to attract more empty-nesters. The property is located within the regulatory 100-year floodplain, and the applicant has stated that he has negotiated with the property owner to the west to replace floodplain storage on that property. Under this scenario a variance to allow compensating storage to occur within the existing floodplain would not be required. There is a wetland on a portion of the property, and the proposal will also require wetland replacement and permits from the DNR and MCWD. The Planning Commission held a public hearing on April 20, 2005, and recommended approval of the requests on a vote of 5 – 1. The City Council reviewed this request to reguide and rezone property at a study session on May 9, 2005, and again on June 13, 2005. There was considerable discussion about the continued strength of the condominium market, the loss of office land, and the issues related to the floodplain including flood protection for future residents, and protection of the wetland. Staff forwarded information regarding the Twin City condo market and current condo developments in St. Louis Park on May 16, 2005. Issues related to traffic and the floodplain are discussed below and will also be addressed more specifically when the applicant makes an application for specific project approvals. The applicant has stated that a variance will not be required. St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 8c - Meadowbrook Lofts Comp Plan and Zoning Page 3 Changes from the previous staff report of May 15, 2005 (attached): Since the previous staff report of May 15, 2005, the applicant has considered some of the concerns of the City Council identified at the May 9, 2005, and June 13, 2005 Study Sessions. The following changes are being proposed: ü The applicant is proposing a 6-story building with larger unit sizes than originally proposed to attract empty-nesters. The unit count would also be decreased from 113 to 107 units. The applicant has indicated that the units would be marketed first to St. Louis Park residents. ü The applicant has negotiated with the adjacent property owner to the west for floodplain compensation. This will eliminate the need for a variance (see attached exhibit). ü The applicant has agreed to enter into a development agreement with the City as part of the PUD process (see attached letter) that would consent to the following: o Dedicate the northern portion of the property to the City or other public agency for open space o Provide an easement over a trail/boardwalk for public access o Incorporate public art within the required stormwater pond o Market the proposed condominium units to current residents of St. Louis Park prior to general marketing o Provide five parking spaces for the general public to access the open space. Floodplain Issues: The FEMA map shows that the 100-year flood elevation for this site is at about 894 feet. The zoning code requires that land be raised two feet above flood elevation or 896 for 15 feet extending from the building wall. Water would have to reach an elevation two feet above the 100-year elevation before the building would be affected by flooding. (See attached cross sections.) Additional Approvals: During the Council’s discussion at the June 13 study session questions were raised regarding the City’s ability to require the developer to live up to the verbal commitments expressed e.g. specific design aspects of the project, wetland set aside matters, etc. A question was also raised regarding how to mitigate complaints being made to the city in the future by residents who might experience some sort of flooding. In addition to an approval for a Comprehensive Plan amendment and a rezoning of the property, the applicant at a minimum would need a CUP for fill/excavation on the site and a plat approval. The site currently consists of two parcels that must be combined to construct the proposed building. A new plat would require City Council approval. The plat approval process would afford the opportunity to require easements to protect the wetlands and allow a public access over the proposed trail/boardwalk. The applicant has stated that he intends to make application for a PUD and plat. Both processes enable the City to require certain conditions of approval and a development agreement. St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 8c - Meadowbrook Lofts Comp Plan and Zoning Page 4 Development of condominiums on this site would also require City approval of Home Owner Association documents. This approval would provide the City with an opportunity to require and insure full disclosure of the buildings proximity to the creek, the flood plain and any potential risk of flooding of the project’s parking areas. Recommendation: Staff and the Planning Commission recommend approval of the proposed Comprehensive Plan Land Use amendment from Office to High Density Residential and the proposed zoning map amendment to change the designation from O-Office to RC-High Density Residential. This is based upon the analysis above and in the May 16, 2005, staff report.. If the Council desires to deny the requests, resolutions of denial would need to be adopted. These resolutions will be available as necessary for the Council’s use during the meeting on Monday night. Attachments: Proposed Resolution approving Comprehensive Plan amendment Proposed Ordinance approving Zoning Map change Revised conceptual drawings, preliminary site, building plans (supplement) May 16, 2005, staff report Building cross sections Correspondence June 14, 2005 Prepared by: Judie Erickson Planning Coordinator 952-924-2574 jerickson@stlouispark.org Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 8c - Meadowbrook Lofts Comp Plan and Zoning Page 5 RESOLUTION NO. 05 - 086 A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN AMENDMENT TO THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2000 TO THE YEAR 2020 FOR THE CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES 462.351 TO 462.364 7202 and 7252 EXCELSIOR BOULEVARD WHEREAS, the Comprehensive Plan 2000-2020 was adopted by the City Council on May 17, 1999 (effective September 1, 1999) and provides the following: 1. An official statement serving as the basic guide in making land use, transportation and community facilities and service decisions affecting the City. 2. A framework for policies and actions leading to the improvement of the physical, financial, and social environment of the City, thereby providing a good place to live and work and a setting conducive for new development. 3. A promotion of the public interest in establishing a more functional, healthful, interesting, and efficient community by serving the interests of the community at large rather than the interests of individual or special groups within the community if their interests are at variance with the public interest. 4. An effective framework for direction and coordination of activities affecting the development and preservation of the community. 5. Treatment of the entire community as one ecosystem and to inject long range considerations into determinations affecting short-range action, and WHEREAS, the use of such Comprehensive Plan will insure a safer, more pleasant, and more economical environment for residential, commercial, industrial, and public activities and will promote the public health, safety, and general welfare, and WHEREAS, said Plan will prepare the community for anticipated desirable change, thereby bringing about significant savings in both private and public expenditures, and WHEREAS, the Comprehensive Plan has taken due cognizance of the planning activities of adjacent units of government, and WHEREAS, the Comprehensive Plan is to be periodically reviewed by the Planning Commission of the City of St. Louis Park and amendments made, if justified according to procedures, rules, and laws, and provided such amendments would provide a positive result and are consistent with other provisions in the Comprehensive Plan, and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of St. Louis Park recommended adoption of an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan 2000-2020 on April 20, 2005, based on St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 8c - Meadowbrook Lofts Comp Plan and Zoning Page 6 statutes, the Metropolitan Regional Blueprint, extensive research and analyses involving the interests of citizens and public agencies; WHEREAS, the City Council has considered the advice and recommendation of the Planning Commission (Case No. 04-71-CP); WHEREAS, the contents of Planning Case File 04-71-CP are hereby entered into and made part of the public hearing record and the record of decision for this case; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of St. Louis Park that the Comprehensive Plan, as previously adopted by the Planning Commission and City Council, is hereby amended as follows: Change the land use designation as shown on the attached map from Office to Residential High Density. Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the City Council June 20, 2005 Contingent upon review of the Metropolitan Council City Manager Mayor Attest: City Clerk 04-71-CP:res-ord/2005 St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 8c - Meadowbrook Lofts Comp Plan and Zoning Page 7 SUMMARY RESOLUTION NO.05 - 086 A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN AMENDMENT TO THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2000 TO THE YEAR 2020 FOR THE CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES 462.351 TO 462.364 7202 and 7252 EXCELSIOR BOULEVARD This resolution states that the Comprehensive Plan land use designation of properties located at 7202 and 7252 Excelsior Boulevard will be changed from Office to Residential High Density. Adopted by the City Council June 20, 2005 Contingent upon approval of the Metropolitan Council Jeffrey W. Jacobs /s/ Mayor A copy of the full text of this resolution is available for inspection with the City Clerk. Published in St. Louis Park Sailor: June 30, 2005 04-71-CP:res-ord/2005 St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 8c - Meadowbrook Lofts Comp Plan and Zoning Page 8 ORDINANCE NO.__________ AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ST. LOUIS PARK ORDINANCE CODE CHANGING BOUNDARIES OF ZONING DISTRICTS 7202 and 7252 EXCELSIOR BOULEVARD THE CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK DOES ORDAIN: Section 1. The City Council has considered the advice and recommendation of the Planning Commission (Case No. 04-72-Z). Section 2. The St. Louis Park Zoning Ordinance adopted December 28, 1959, Ordinance No. 730; amended December 31, 1992, Ordinance No. 1902-93, amended December 17, 2001, Ordinance No. 2216-01, as heretofore amended, is hereby further amended by changing the zoning district boundaries by reclassifying the following described lands from their existing land use district classification to the new land use district classification as indicated for the tracts as hereinafter set forth, to wit: Tracts B and C, Registered Land Survey No. 1674 from O - Office to RC – High Density Residential. Section 3. The contents of Planning Case File 04-72-Z are hereby entered into and made part of the public hearing record and the record of decision for this case. Section 4. The ordinance shall take effect upon Metropolitan Council review of associated Comprehensive Plan amendment. Adopted by the City Council July 5, 2005 Reviewed for Administration City Manager Mayor Attest: Approved as to Form and Execution: City Clerk City Attorney 04-72-Z:res-ord/2005 St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 8c - Meadowbrook Lofts Comp Plan and Zoning Page 9 CITY COUNCIL REPORT 051605 8d. Request of Emad Abed for a Comprehensive Plan land use amendment and a Zoning map amendment for property located at 7200, 7202, 7250, 7252 Excelsior Boulevard (Meadowbrook Lofts). Case Nos. 04-71-CP and 04-72-Z The applicant is requesting the City to reguide and rezone properties to allow a 6-story condominium project. The project will also require a subdivision and PUD and may require a variance; those applications may only be made following action on the Comprehensive Plan amendment and rezoning. Recommended Action: ü Motion to approve resolution amending the Comprehensive Plan Land Use from Office to RC subject to review by the Metropolitan Council, approve summary publication and authorize publication. ü Motion to approve first reading of ordinance amending zoning map to change the designation from O-Office to RC-Residential Commercial and set second reading for June 6, 2005. Site Data: Comprehensive Plan : Existing: Office and Industrial Proposed: Residential High Density and Industrial Zoning: Current: O-Office, IG-General Industrial, FF-Flood Fringe Proposed: RC-Residential Commercial, IG-General Industrial Site Area: 11.6 acres Current Use: Vacant, except for a non-conforming billboard Proposed Density: Approximately 27 units/acre (based on buildable area only, 9.8 units per acre based on entire parcel) Ground Floor Area Ratio Proposed 0.06 Allowed 0.25 St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 8c - Meadowbrook Lofts Comp Plan and Zoning Page 10 Background: The applicant is proposing to reguide and rezone properties to allow for a 6-story, 113-unit condominium building on the subject property. The property is located within the regulatory 100-year floodplain, so the applicant would require a variance to allow compensating storage to occur in the floodplain. (Another option to the variance is to acquire additional land that is located outside the regulatory floodplain.) There is also a wetland on the property, so the proposal will also require permits from the DNR and MCWD. On February 16, 2005, the Planning Commission held a public hearing on a separate request from the applicant to amend a provision in the floodplain section of the zoning code to allow compensating storage for fill in a floodplain to occur within the flood fringe area of the floodplain. The Planning Commission recommended approval of the request. The City Council did not act on the request and subsequently, the applicant withdrew the application. The applicant decided to either apply for a variance from this provision in lieu of the text amendment or to acquire land outside the regulatory floodplain boundary. The Planning Commission held a public hearing on April 20, 2005, and recommended approval on a vote of 5 – 1. The City Council reviewed this request to reguide and rezone at a study session on May 9, 2005. There was considerable discussion about the continued strength of the condominium market, the loss of office land, and the issues related to the floodplain. Attached to this report is a memo, St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 8c - Meadowbrook Lofts Comp Plan and Zoning Page 11 copy of a market study entitled “Market Viewpoint Twin Cities Condo Market 2004 – 2005 completed by DSU Research, and current condo developments in St. Louis Park. Issues related to traffic and floodplain will be addressed more specifically when the applicant makes an application for an actual project. Site History: The subject site was originally part of a larger lot that also contained the building now occupied by ApplianceSmart. An RLS was filed with Hennepin County in the early 1990s that divided the parcel into 4 tracts. Tract A was later subdivided as Excelsior Townhomes. Track D is the parcel occupied by ApplianceSmart and Tracts B and C are the parcels that the applicant is proposing to develop. There is also a school district boundary that divides the parcels from north to south. Although there are only two legal parcels being considered, there are actually 4 tax parcels. The current zoning boundary follows the school district line. The northern tax parcels are zoned General Industrial and the southern two tax parcels are zoned Office. The applicant is proposing to change the zoning on the southern two tax parcels only and development is to occur only on the southern parcels. Issues: ü How does the current zoning compare with proposed zoning? ü How does the proposed amendment impact surrounding properties? ü How does the proposed amendment change the physical character of the location and neighborhood? ü Does the proposed amendment improve or degrade the transitions between existing land uses? ü How does the proposed amendment impact the natural environment? ü Are there unaccounted benefits to the proposed amendment, such as the removal of blighted properties? ü Does the proposed amendment require analysis by an outside expert, including but not limited to traffic engineers, financial consultants, hydrologic engineers, or environmental engineers? Issue Analysis: How does the current zoning compare with proposed zoning? A list comparisons between current and proposed zoning is attached. It shows permitted building height, densities, and allowed uses. The Zoning code lists uses that do not require City Council approval as “permitted” or “permitted with conditions”. Uses permitted by “Conditional Use Permit” or “PUD” require City Council approval. The density of development, including building height, floor area ratio, and types of uses are more intense in the Office District. St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 8c - Meadowbrook Lofts Comp Plan and Zoning Page 12 How does the proposed amendment impact surrounding properties? The applicant is proposing an approximate 29,500 square foot building foot print on the southwest portion of a 500,000 square foot site. This constitutes a ground floor area ratio of 0.06. The building as shown is over 700 feet from the rear property line and 160 feet from the east property line. Uses within 1000 feet include the following (see attached): ü Excelsior Townhouses -- 38 Townhouse units, the nearest building is 200 feet from the proposed building. ü Meadowbrook Manor -- Several buildings are within 1,000 feet, the closest is about 450 feet from the proposed building. ü Municipal Service Center property line is within 800 feet, the building is over 1,000 feet from the proposed building. ü ApplianceSmart is located adjacent, along with several other industrial properties. ü The Meadowbrook Golf Course and single family residential in Hopkins are also within 1,000 feet. The impacts of development under the current zoning could be more intense due to the greater building height and both peak hour and total traffic generation of a commercial use. An office use could also be considered a transition between residential and industrial zoned properties. Residential uses tend to have more of a weekend and evening focus, with dispursed traffic patterns. How does the proposed amendment change the physical character of the location and neighborhood? The 11.5 acre site is currently vacant except for a non-conforming billboard that is located on eastern parcel. There is a stand of cottonwood trees on the portion of the site to be developed. Tree replacement would be a requirement of project approval. The proposed development would place a 6-story residential building on the existing vacant property with both evening and weekend activity. The current zoning could result in a significant office building, provided structured parking was provided. This use is primarily a weekday use and would generate significant peak hour traffic. A building on the subject property would impact views of the wetland from Excelsior Boulevard, but not from any nearby residential uses. The development plans show a boardwalk or trail that would connect Excelsior Boulevard to Minnehaha Creek. There has been some concern that future residents would complain about noises generated by industrial activity, especially those generated at the Municipal Service Center where backing trucks and other activity has already generated complaints from residents of Excelsior Townhomes. Future residents may also complain about the truck storage and truck traffic form ApplianceSmart. The closest point of proposed building is located 700 feet from the rear St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 8c - Meadowbrook Lofts Comp Plan and Zoning Page 13 property line and 800 feet from the parcel occupied by the MSC. Since sound will not be traveling over open water, decibel levels would drop significantly over this distance. Does the proposed amendment improve or degrade the transitions between existing land uses? The proposed use would provide a buffer between the existing Excelsior Townhomes and the ApplianceSmart parking lot, truck storage, and loading docks. The proposed development would move residential uses closer to commercial and industrial uses and currently trucks from ApplianceSmart are parked right up to this property. However, the under-building parking raises the first occupied floor so that sight lines out of windows would be above the existing parking lot. Also, the proposed alignment of the building would take advantage of the best views for most of the units. How does the proposed amendment impact the natural environment? The major portion of the 11.6 acre site contains a wetland and the site is almost totally within the regulatory 100-year floodplain of Minnehaha Creek. The site cannot be developed under either current or proposed zoning without filling a portion of the wetland and filling within the 100- year floodplain. State law requires a two for one replacement for wetland mitigation. The City requires compensating storage for filling in a floodplain. The applicant has met with Minnehaha Creek Watershed District (MCWD) and believes that proposed wetland mitigation will actually improve the quality of the wetland. The applicant will apply for a variance to allow compensating storage for filling in the floodplain to occur within the boundaries of the floodplain. This variance would be required regardless of the type of use or existing zoning, unless the applicant finds compensating storage in another location. Are there unaccounted benefits to the proposed amendment, such as the removal of blighted properties? If the proposed development occurs on this parcel, it will result in the removal of a non- conforming billboard. Billboards have been non-conforming in St. Louis Park since 1985, and about 35% have actually been removed since that time. (There are currently 29 billboards in St. Louis Park.) The Army Corp. of Engineers has been considering a project that would reestablish some former meanders within the Minnehaha Creek bed. The applicant has indicated a willingness to allow meanders over the north portion of the property, which could improve the aesthetic quality of the creek. The applicant has also indicated some interest in dedicating a conservation easement over the proposed wetland boundary. Residential development generates fewer peak hour trips than an office use. The Institute of Transportation Trip Generation manuals indicate that the proposed 113-unit condominium project would generate 662 weekday trips, 50 a.m. peak hour trips, and 59 p.m. peak hour trips. The same size office building would generate 1,163 weekday trips, 234 a.m. peak hour trips and 225 p.m. peak hour trips. Site access to the site is right-in and right-out only from Excelsior Boulevard. A residential use on this property would generate fewer peak hour trips and would result in fewer U-turns on Excelsior Boulevard during rush hour in order to access or exit the St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 8c - Meadowbrook Lofts Comp Plan and Zoning Page 14 site. This would be beneficial as current traffic counts in Excelsior Boulevard were 25,600 vehicles per day in 2001 in this section. Does the proposed amendment require analysis by an outside expert, including but not limited to traffic engineers, financial consultants, hydrologic engineers, or environmental engineers? Due to the existing wetland and floodplain, any grading of the site will require review from the City’s a hydrologic engineer consultant and a variance from the City. Prior to any site disturbing activities, permits are also required from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Minnehaha Creek Watershed District. Traffic studies are often required as part of the development approval process if traffic is perceived to be an issue. Summary: The subject property is located adjacent to both industrial and residential land uses. It is also adjacent to green space amenities that create a desirable living and working environment. Since the property itself has a desirable environment for either residential or office development and is currently vacant, a change in land use would not impact existing jobs. There are, however, a number of jobs within ½ mile of the subject property including Methodist Hospital, medical office buildings, and industrial uses. The proposed project could provide housing for persons who work in the area. The site is also on a frequently operating transit line that could connect future residents with jobs all along Excelsior Boulevard, Uptown, and downtown Minneapolis. Future Actions: If the City Council approves the proposed Comprehensive Plan and zoning map amendments, the applicant will make application for a PUD, Subdivision, and variance. All of these applications require public hearings. If the City Council denies the request, the applicant has indicated a willingness to construct a mixed-use project consistent with the existing zoning. Recommendation: Staff and the Planning Commission recommend approval of the proposed Comprehensive Plan Land Use amendment from Office to High Density Residential and the proposed zoning map amendment to change the designation from O-Office to RC-High Density Residential based upon restricted site access and traffic generation comparisons between office and residential uses. Even though this amendment would move residential closer to existing industrial property, new owners will move into a known condition. If the Council chooses to deny the requests, the action would be to direct staff to prepare resolutions of denial. Attachments: Proposed Resolution approving Comprehensive Plan amendment Proposed Ordinance approving Zoning Map change Conceptual drawings, preliminary site and building plans Existing & Proposed Comprehensive Plan and Zoning St. Louis Park City Council Meeting 062005 - 8c - Meadowbrook Lofts Comp Plan and Zoning Page 15 Zoning District Comparison Chart Prepared by: Judie Erickson,Planning Coordinator 952-924-2574 Reviewed by: Meg McMonigel, Planning and Zoning Supervisor Approved by: Nancy Gohman, Deputy City Manager