HomeMy WebLinkAbout2005/08/15 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - City Council - RegularAGENDA SUMMARY
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
August 15, 2005 7:30 p.m.
6:30 p.m. – Study Session – Westwood Room
1. Call to Order
a. Pledge of Allegiance
b. Roll Call
2. Presentations
a. Junior Leader Recognition
b. Met Council Grant Award – Peggy Leppik
3. Approval of Minutes
a. City Council Minutes of August 1, 2005
b. City Council Study Session Minutes of July 11, 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. Proposed Transfer of Cable Television System
Public hearing to discuss issues regarding the proposed transfer of the Cable
Communications Franchise Ordinance and cable system from Time Warner Cable,
Inc. to Comcast Cable Communications, LLC.
Recommended
Action:
Motion to continue the public hearing to September 19, 2005.
6b. Time Warner Cable TV Franchise Renewal Update
Public hearing to discuss the status of the franchise renewal process with Time
Warner Cable, Inc.
Recommended
Action:
Motion to continue the public hearing and extend the term of the
franchise agreement to September 19, 2005.
An alternate motion would be to direct staff to proceed to the
formal franchise renewal process
(Staff will provide a more specific recommendation during the
meeting).
7. Requests, Petitions, and Communications from the Public - None
8. Resolutions, Ordinances, Motions
8a. Request by SilverCrest Properties for a Major Amendment to a Planned Unit
Development
Location: 3601 Park Center Boulevard
Applicant: SilverCrest Properties
Case No: Case No. 05-33-PUD
Recommended
Action:
Motion to adopt Resolution No. 000, authorizing a Major
Amendment to the Planned Unit Development for the
elimination of age restrictions at the Park Summit
Condominiums and changes to the underground parking
structure.
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 August 15, 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 adopt a Resolution appointing election judges for the Primary and General
Elections to be held September 13 and November 8, 2005
4b Motion to approve second reading of ordinance amending the zoning designation for
property located at 1324 and 1332 Kentucky Avenue from C-2 General Commercial and
R2 – Single Family Residential to RC – Multi-Family Residential, adopt ordinance,
approve summary, and authorize publication. Case No. 05-29-Z
4c Motion to approve resolution calling for a public hearing regarding the issuance of
multifamily housing revenue refunding bonds under Minnesota statutes, chapter 462c for
the benefit of Knollwood Place Apartments Project
4d Motion to Adopt Resolution of Support for Trunk Highway 7/Wooddale Avenue
Interchange Improvements
4e Motion to adopt the attached resolution that declares the petition adequate for the
purposes of preparing a formal City Engineer’s Report on the feasibility and costs
associated with a proposed alley paving project in the 2900 block of Princeton and
Ottawa Avenue – Project No. 2005-1800.
4f Motion to adopt resolution accepting construction of enclosed park building and open
picnic shelter at oak hill park contract no. 50-04
4g Motion to accept Fire Civil Service Commission Minutes of May 11, 2005 for filing
4h Motion to accept Telecommunications Commission Minutes of May 5, 2005 for filing
4i Motion to accept Planning Commission Minutes of July 5, 2005 for filing
4j Traffic Study No. 598: Motion to adopt the attached resolution authorizing the
installation of stop signs on Cedar Lake Road at Quentin Avenue
4k Motion to accept vendor claims for filing (supplement)
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UNOFFICIAL MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
August 1, 2005
1. Call to Order
Mayor Jacobs called the meeting to order at 7:34 pm.
Council members present: Mayor Jeff Jacobs, John Basill, Jim Brimeyer, Phil Finkelstein, Paul
Omodt, Susan Sanger and Sue Santa
Mayor Jacobs welcomed Interim City Councilmember Brimeyer.
Staff present: Associate Planner (Mr. Fulton), City Manager (Mr. Harmening), City Attorney (Mr.
Scott), Community Development Director (Mr. Locke), Economic Development Coordinator (Mr.
Hunt), Human Resources Director (Ms. Gohman), City Engineer (Ms. Brink), Planning/Zoning
Supervisor (Ms. McMonigal) and Recording Secretary (Ms. Stegora-Peterson).
2. Presentations
a. Presentation of Met Council TBRA Grant – Peggy Leppik – Moved to next meeting
3. Approval of Minutes
3a. City Council Minutes of July 18, 2005
The minutes were 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.
4a Bid Tabulation: Designate Michels Corporation the lowest responsible bidder and
authorize execution of a contract with the firm in the amount of $95,152.00 for
construction of a fiber optic link to connect Golden Valley City Hall to Hennepin
County Sheriff Radio Tower at Highway 169 for the 800 MHz radio project
communications network serving the cities of St. Louis Park and Golden Valley
4b Bid Tabulation: Designate Ettel & Franz Roofing Company the lowest responsible
bidder and authorize execution of a contract with the firm in the amount of
$204,450.00 for the 2005 Police Department Reroof Project - Project No. 2005-
1700
4c Approve Resolution No. 05-097 adopting the National Incident Management
System
4d Approve Resolution No. 05-098 to adopt the Military Leave Policy
4e Approve a Temporary On-Sale Intoxicating Liquor License - Holy Family Fall
Festival, 5900 & 5925 West Lake Street, St. Louis Park to be held September 23 &
24, 2005
4f Accept City/School Volunteer Office Annual Report for Filing
4g Accept Planning Commission Minutes of July 6, 2005 for Filing
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4h Adopt Resolution No. 05-099 authorizing submittal of a Declaration of Restrictions and
Covenants and Affidavit Concerning Real Property Contaminated with Hazardous
Substances in Wolfe Park
4i Accept vendor claim report for filing (supplement)
It was moved by Councilmember Santa, seconded by Councilmember Sanger, to approve the
Agenda and items listed on the Consent Calendar.
The motion passed 7-0.
5. Boards and Commissions - None
6. Public Hearings
6a. Consideration of the establishment of Special Service District #4 (along
westerly Excelsior Boulevard between Highway 100 and Louisiana Avenue)
and the imposition of a service charge within the District.
Ordinance No. 2298-05 Resolution No. 05-100
Mr. Hunt presented the staff report.
Mayor Jacobs opened the public hearing.
Jerry Trestman, Trestman Music Center, 5600 Excelsior Blvd, objected to the special
service district. They eliminated lights on City property and were putting new lights to
light up their driveway. They did not need snow removal because they had their own.
They would like to have City approval to put a sign on the building stating they are open
for business during road construction. They could not stand additional costs.
Mayor Jacobs asked staff to work with the applicant on signage. Mr. Harmening
responded they would work with him. He clarified that snow removal was not a part of the
special service district and they would not be charged for it.
Mayor Jacobs clarified there was a petition from property owners along the corridor for
this special service district. Mr. Hunt replied they saw the value in continuing the
streetscape improvement project along Excelsior Blvd.
Mayor Jacobs closed the public hearing.
Councilmember Basill stated businesses had come forward asking them to fix up the
streetscape. Residents on the West side also expressed an interest. Businesses on the East
side with a special service district expressed how good deal it was. Flowerpots are taken
care of, sidewalks kept up and it looked good. It’s good for pedestrians and the
community. They needed to address the sign issue, but the roadwork needed to be done.
He supported this.
It was moved by Councilmember Basill, seconded by Councilmember Finkelstein to
approve 2nd reading and adoption of Ordinance No. 2298-05 to create Special Service
District #4, approve summary, and authorize summary publication.
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Councilmember Finkelstein felt it was important to point out that things looked pretty bad
now, but in several years it would look a lot better. They needed to take account of the
increased traffic on Excelsior Avenue. Whatever they could do to create traffic calming
would benefit businesses, the neighborhood and the entire city.
The motion passed 7-0.
It was moved by Councilmember Basill, seconded by Councilmember Omodt to approve
Resolution No. 05-100 imposing a service charge for Special Service District #4.
The motion passed 7-0.
7. Requests, Petitions, and Communications from the Public – None
8. Resolutions, Ordinances, Motions
8a. Request by Park Tavern for a Major Amendment to a Special Permit to
construct a building addition at 3401 Louisiana Avenue South.
Case No. 05-15-CUP. Resolution No. 05-101
Mr. Fulton presented the staff report.
Phil Webber, Park Tavern owner, noted he did fix and the parking lot, one of the
conditions. To address the requirement for windows in the room, the new addition is
lower than the level of the dining room. They would need shades drawn when the sun
came through. He has a camera and would put a monitor to be viewed by the bartenders.
Councilmember Brimeyer asked the purpose of the windows? Mr. Fulton replied to
improve visibility between the dining area and the proposed addition for security.
Mr. Webber noted that parking had always been an issue. He was fortunate to be in an
industrial area and after hours there is a lot of parking in the area. He adamantly disagreed
with taking away parking on the North side on Louisiana.
Councilmember Santa indicated last time they talked about the liquor ordinance and how it
would be administered. Did the proposal meet the liquor ordinance requirement with a
camera or windows? Mr. Locke replied yes. After much discussion with the City
Attorney and Hennepin County staff, they concluded it was appropriate for the City to
focus on the zoning applications and building addition. There shouldn’t be problems
complying with the City’s liquor ordinance. Windows improved the ability to monitor the
space. The operation would be in compliance with the City and County’s ordinances.
Councilmember Santa asked Councilmember Omodt if his issues from the previous
meeting had been addressed? Councilmember Omodt responded, based on his comments
last time, he was under-whelmed by the County’s response to a municipality’s request for
information on how to enforce this and that they would not provide something in writing.
As a City, they needed to move forward in good faith. Mr. Webber was operating under
the assumption what they were doing was legal and from a building code perspective, they
should move forward.
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Councilmember Sanger had concerns with the policies that got them to this point and with
risk management for the City. She was concerned about the legal position the City was
being put into. Hennepin County declined their request for a legal opinion regarding this
approach. Hennepin County Ordinance No. 24 does not allow any exemptions for indoor
smoking in a bar or restaurant, yet County staff came up with a policy Mr. Webber was
relying on, that it was legitimate to have smoking indoors. She had concerns about how
Hennepin County got to that policy enforcement guideline. It was not their job to do the
legal analysis and to develop the policy for Hennepin County, but she was troubled when
Mr. Webber indicated he had significant input into the guidelines when other members of
the public did not have the same opportunity for input. There could be legal challenges and
she didn’t want St. Louis Park caught in the middle. If they granted the request she was
concerned with issues of competition between Park Tavern and other bars and restaurants
in the community. If this was approved, she expected other bars and restaurants to come
forward requesting exemptions, which would further undermine the smoking ban. Or, it
would lead to charges that the City had done something special for Park Tavern. It was a
lose/lose situation. It wasn’t their job to give him a competitive edge. She had concerns
about liquor license issues and enforcement, concerns about an ordinance and policy
enforcement based on the idea that staff members of bars and restaurants should not be
exposed to second hand smoke, but at the same time Hennepin County saying it was OK
for the same staff to clean up trash after people had consumed food and beverages. She
was disappointed they had not gotten clarity from the County and they were not willing to
put their policy into writing. As a policy matter her concern was that second hand smoke
kills people. By this request, they were asking the Council to be enablers of chemical
dependency and she would not support that.
Mr. Webber responded he was classified as a multi-use facility, which can have smoking.
He must have misrepresented himself when he said that he had input on Hennepin County
on their guidelines. He said he talked with Lynn Moore once the ban was enacted trying to
see where he could fit within the ban. Everyone had input at the meetings. He asked Lynn
Moore where he could go within this ordinance as a multi-use facility.
Councilmember Sanger responded those comments were what she was referring to. Mr.
Webber clarified that was after the ordinance was in place, he was trying to find out
exactly what the ordinance stated. He just happened to be one of the first to talk to her.
Everything he was doing was in complete compliance with Hennepin County guidelines.
Bowling alleys and pool halls are exempt from the smoking ban and all have employees.
He was not trying to create an unsafe environment, but trying to come up with something
within Hennepin County’s guidelines to allow smoking. He didn’t believe they were
approving the death of innocent people. Hennepin County is revisiting this issue because
there are economic consequences to the smoking ban. He was within his legal rights. They
were not giving him a competitive edge, anyone with the ability to, should be able to come
before the Council. He was offended they thought he was trying to pull something over on
the Council or do something illegal and skirt around the law. He has been in the
community for over 26 years and has never been cited for anything. He was in the
customer service business and trying to stay economically viable.
Councilmember Sanger stated she was not accusing him of trying to pull something over
on anyone. Her concern was with the enforcement policy that Hennepin County had done,
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which appeared directly in conflict with its own ordinance banning smoking. He was
within his rights to try this, she just didn’t think it was the proper way to go about it.
Councilmember Omodt agreed with Mr. Webber. The County Attorney should be giving
them a legal opinion and has chosen not to. He didn’t think Mr. Webber was doing
anything illegal. If they were concerned about people dying from smoke or second hand
smoke, they should go after primary smokers. The issue was the fact he had applied to
modify his building and was meeting all of the guidelines. The fact that this may give him
a competitive advantage, that was what he was supposed to do, he was in business. He
should take the opportunity because its there. If other bars and restaurant or multi use
facilities wanted to take it, they should. He didn’t think they should criticize a
businessperson for seeking a competitive advantage. They wouldn’t be in business unless
they did that. He further didn’t think Mr. Webber was asking for any exemptions, he
believe he had complied with what the County or City had asked every step of the way.
They needed to go from a building perspective and stop debating smoking.
Councilmember Finkelstein thought Mr. Webber was an asset to the community and
appreciated that. He was opposing the request because he thought it defeated the purpose
of the Hennepin County ordinance. Hennepin County may be backing away because of
the several page explanatory of what they will let people do, but the purpose of the
ordinance was to preserve health, and by taking actions like this, they were not meeting
that. He was concerned about enforcement issues they would be placing on staff. He took
Mr. Webber at his word that he would do his best to enforce it, but he would not be there
24 hrs/day-7 days/week. He remained concerned about legality of this action. He learned
in law school when you write an ordinance and then you write an explanation of the
ordinance, they shouldn’t contradict each other. These contradict each other and the
County had not met their obligation to give them guidance. He had a concern about an
equal playing field and other establishments in the community coming forward. They
would go from one smoking lounge to five or six and all paying the costs.
Councilmember Santa requested the City Attorney to respond to legal issues raised by
Councilmember Finkelstein and Sanger.
Mr. Scott indicated their primary issue was the liquor license. The staff report accurately
set forth what needed to happen to be in compliance with the liquor license. To maintain
compliance, Park Tavern employees must have full access to the smoking room during all
business hours. They could not have any restrictions on employees accessing that room.
Whether or not that was in compliance with the Hennepin County’s Smoking ordinance, or
their interpretation of the smoking ordinance, was the question they had not gotten a
specific answer in writing from the County. They have had conversations with County
staff and they believed it would be consistent with their interpretation of the ordinance.
With that understanding, that there is full access for staff to monitor what was going on, it
would be in compliance with their liquor ordinance.
Councilmember Basill read from the staff report, their discussion with Hennepin County,
“so long as no smoke is not allowed to migrate between the different portions of the
building, a multi-use facility is allowed to provide an indoor smoking area”. It was
allowed under their ordinance. They may not like that, but the fact was Mr. Webber was
bringing forward something allowed. He could bring forward a request to add a 410 sq. ft.
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building with no explanation. When it was done, make sure it has negative airflow and
they wouldn’t have this discussion. They would be approving a building, and it would be
up to the County for enforcement. He reminded the Council they were the ones that took
that burden on. They shouldn’t make an applicant pay for their decision to take on the
enforcement policy. The addition met the code and met Hennepin County’s ordinance. He
didn’t see how they should interpret the County’s ordinance differently from how they
were interpreting it. The applicant brought this forward in good faith. Planning
Commission approved it overwhelming. There may be changes that the applicant and the
Council need to deal with. With the facts before them, he didn’t see how they could not
approve this. They were complying with the ordinance.
Councilmember Santa believed it was very difficult to be a trailblazer. They had gone
through several steps and looked things over. She agreed with Councilmember Basill that
Mr. Webber had done everything he had been told he needed to do. She saw no reason
why they should not approve this.
It was moved by Councilmember Santa, seconded by Councilmember Omodt, to adopt
Resolution No. 05-101 amending and restating Resolution No. 6805, authorizing a Major
Amendment to a Special Permit to allow the construction of a building addition, subject to
conditions as recommended in the resolution.
Mayor Jacobs was concerned about the potential inconsistency between the ordinance
versus the way County staff was telling them it ought to be applied. What happened if
somewhere along the way there is an interpretation saying they can’t do this? Does the
City face any liability having approved the building addition? Mr. Scott replied they were
approving the building addition. Our issue is the liquor license and there has to be full
access. The County has taken the position it was OK, under their interpretation of their
ordinance. If the County decides to interpret their ordinance in a different way, and
indicate it is not OK for employees to have full access to this addition, that was a risk Mr.
Webber would run. If that happens, there would be an issue whether or not this room
could be continued to be used for that purpose and still be in compliance with both
ordinances. It was a risk Mr. Webber took, and he didn’t see any significant liability from
the City’s standpoint.
Mayor Jacobs agreed with Councilmember’s Omodt and Basill. The issue involved
whether they should approve a building addition. He didn’t see the county’s smoking
ordinance as their issue. He didn’t like second hand smoke and thought the state should
pass a statewide law. The issue was a request for a building addition, and he could see no
reason to deny the application.
Councilmember Finkelstein read from Hennepin County Ordinance No. 24, “smoking is
prohibited in indoor areas of food establishments unless otherwise excluded.”
Mayor Jacobs responded that was risk you have to run if there is an interpretation by at
some point indicating this room can’t be used for the purpose he intended it. They were all
acting in good faith that this was OK. He did not see any grounds to deny the request,
although he understood the concerns.
The motion passed 5-2, with Councilmember’s Finkelstein and Sanger opposed.
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8b. Traffic Study No. 597: Basketweave stop sign pattern in the Pennsylvania
Park neighborhood. Resolution No.’s 05-102 and 05-103
Mr. Brink presented the staff report.
Councilmember Brimeyer believed they had way too many stop signs in town already.
Are there stops on Franklin Avenue? Mr. Brink replied yes, at Maryland and Oregon.
Councilmember Brimeyer believed it was inconvenient for people, but if the residents in
his ward wanted it, he would support it.
Mayor Jacobs noted as a former member of that ward years ago, he was uncomfortable
with the uncontrolled intersections. There were topographical changes that made it
difficult to see. This was a good idea and there was consensus from the neighborhood.
It was moved by Councilmember Brimeyer, seconded by Councilmember Sanger, to adopt
Resolution No. 05-102 authorizing placement of stop and yield signs for traffic control
and rescinding Resolution No. 4385; and to adopt Resolution No. 05-103 authorizing
installation of basket weave stop sign pattern in the Pennsylvania Park Neighborhood and
rescinding Resolution No.’s 5053 and 84-132.
Councilmember Sanger stated she would like to respect the resident’s choice for the
basketweave. They had always been told that this is better for traffic calming and in
theory she believed it. This would be a good opportunity to test it. If it turned out not to
be perfect, it was not that hard to make a change and move a stop sign.
Councilmember Omodt indicated that it was difficult to take stop signs out and hard to get
them back once they were taken out. It was a lot of signs and a lot of work to either put
them in or take them out.
Mayor Jacobs stated it may be an inconvenience and when installed it meant that people
needed to stop. Some intersections really needed stop signs.
Councilmember Basill indicated he was in favor of this because the neighborhood wanted
it. It didn’t mean he was always for basketweave. There are times it fits and times it
doesn’t. He didn’t think they could go to every neighborhood with this as a solution.
Councilmember Santa stated she went through this process in her own neighborhood and
there was no consensus. She knew the work the residents put into this and respected that
and would support it because it made sense to them and they lived there.
The motion passed 7-0.
8c. Salary Cap Changes Effective August 1, 2005
Resolution No. 05-104
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Mr. Gohman presented the staff report.
Councilmember Santa asked who administers the health savings account? Ms. Gohman
replied America’s VEBA and ING.
Councilmember Santa indicated she was an employee of ING and owned stock and would
be abstaining.
It was moved by Councilmember Brimeyer, seconded by Councilmember Basill, to adopt
Resolution No. 05-104 revising employee salaries affected by the change in the salary
cap, removing PTO and revising a section of our personnel manual.
The motion passed 6-0-1, with Councilmember Santa abstaining.
8d. Request of Mr. Parrish Hemmeke for a Comprehensive Plan Map
Amendment from Commercial and Low Density Residential to High Density
Residential; and a Zoning Map Amendment from C2 – General Commercial
and R2 – Single Family Residential to RC – Multi-Family Residential. Case
No.: 05-28-CP and 05-29-Z. Resolution No. 05-105
Mr. Fulton presented the staff report.
Parrish Hemmeke, applicant, stated the commercial property at 1324 was cut in half and
made unbuildable and 1332 had been a rental property. The proposal would create a
buffer zone between the commercial frontage and residential properties behind it. They
would provide guest parking in addition to parking in the cul-de-sac. There was no
entrance from the residential Southerly side. At a neighborhood meeting June 28th,
neighbors three concerns were parking, construction staging, noise and the buffer to the
South and East. MnDot owned property behind the St. Louis Park sign, where they felt
they could access the site. They could put in prefabricated walls with span crete floors for
the ceiling of the garage and would be able to use underground for parking construction
vehicles. They were willing to work with the City to try to minimize impact in the
neighborhood. This project would benefit the site and the design proposal aimed to
develop a highly visible corner with high-end urban lofts. It is a gateway to the City and
imperative surrounding properties were well maintained. He has had several problems
with vehicles being abandoned in the lot. They would provide adequate landscaping as a
part of the development to create appropriate buffers from the neighbors.
Councilmember Finkelstein asked if he had done similar projects or worked in other
cities? Mr. Parrish replied that he owned a mortgage company and was a general
contractor of a construction company he also owned. He partnered with a friend and
another general contractor who was more familiar with multi-family projects.
Councilmember Finkelstein asked how large the units would be and what they anticipated
they would sell for? Mr. Parrish replied they would be marketed as high-end lofts in the
range of $300-$380,000. They would be between 1200-1700 square feet.
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Councilmember Omodt indicated that his biggest concern would be the buffer on the back
end, which was brought up by the neighborhood. Would there be a fence or landscaping?
Mr. Fulton replied it hadn’t been determined at this time. There would typically be a
higher buffer yard requirement, which could be met in a variety of ways. There was plenty
of room to meet buffer yard requirements.
Mayor Jacobs noted that hey were not reviewing a site plan at this point.
Councilmember Sanger was glad the units would be larger size condominiums. Larger
units may mean a potential for two adult drivers in each unit. The assumptions regarding
traffic in the staff report seemed low. The theory was nice that they would take the bus,
but she was unsure they could rely on that. Her concern went to traffic and parking
implications. She was uncomfortable they did not have a traffic study. She goes through
the frontage road and Louisiana on a daily basis and frequently has to wait two and three
times through to make a left turn and about adding traffic to the intersection. Mr. Fulton
indicated they used the traffic manual used by transportation engineers to get their figures.
It was not expected the numbers would vary dramatically. Twelve units require 24 parking
spaces, which met City Code. The applicant hadn’t requested the additional 15%
reduction allowed in a PUD, only reductions for transit proximity and bicycles.
Councilmember Sanger asked if they would be doing a traffic study? Mr. Fulton
responded should the applicant go forward with a PUD they could require that.
Councilmember Finkelstein asked if they didn’t have a project like this, because it was
such an unusual shaped property, could they end up with a commercial property with more
traffic? Mr. Fulton replied it was not anticipated that the Northern parcel could feasibly be
developed for commercial use. It was awkward and small.
Councilmember Finkelstein asked what else could they see there if they didn’t have a
project like this? Mr. Fulton responded without re-platting, it was not anticipated this
parcel could be used for much, other than the parking lot.
Councilmember Basill understood they were not approving a site plan, but it was good the
applicant knew that there was an R2 area behind them and they wanted to protect single-
family homes. The buffer yard would be very important to the residents. This project is
on a visible corner and next to the City sign and needed to be a superior product when the
PUD comes forward.
Mayor Jacobs agreed the applicant should be sensitive to neighbors behind this. They
should be sensitive to the traffic concerns and to the fact this is a very visible corner and
should be a superior design, possibly incorporating public art. He hoped people would buy
there because they could walk across the street to a major transit hub.
It was moved by Councilmember Brimeyer, seconded by Councilmember Omodt, to adopt
Resolution No. 05-105, approving an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan for 1324 and
1332 Kentucky Avenue South; and a motion to approve the publication of a summary of
Resolution No. 000.
The motion passed 7-0.
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It was moved by Councilmember Brimeyer, seconded by Councilmember Omodt, to adopt
the first reading of an ordinance amending the St. Louis Park Ordinance Code changing
boundaries of zoning districts for 1324 and 1332 Kentucky Avenue South from C2 and R2
to RC, Multi-Family Residential.
The motion passed 7-0.
8e. Request by AVIS Rent-A-Car for a Conditional Use Permit to allow an
automobile rental facility together with a variance to allow 7 rental cars to be
parked within 100 of a residentially zoned property. Case Nos. 05-30-CUP
and 05-31-VAR. Resolution No.’s 05-106 and 05-107
Ms. McGonigal presented the staff report.
Jenny Peterson, 4300 36th St, asked hours of operation?
Jeff Higginbotham, Agency manager for Avis, replied they were open Monday-Friday, 8
AM – 6 PM, 8 AM – 4 PM Saturday and 10 AM – 2 PM on Sunday.
Ms. Peterson asked how much traffic they expected to come through the back entry? Mr.
Higginbotham replied they would use the Excelsior Blvd entrance as much as possible.
Councilmember Basill asked staff to show the location of the back entrance. Ms.
McGonigal showed the entrances. Midas shares the parking lot. When going West, you
can turn right easily. When going East, it was more difficult to exit.
Mayor Jacobs stated it reminded him of the Norwest Bank building on Excelsior. There
were similar concerns raised and it was his understanding that those had not materialized.
Conrad Miller, 4309-4311 W 36th St, stated that he was not opposed to the business, but
there was a lot of traffic on 36th St from Midas and the transmission shop. He suggested a
cul-de-sac and W 36th St be closed, so businesses could no longer use it. The transmission
shop used the street to test vehicles when they were finished being repaired.
Councilmember Omodt stated it would be a benefit to have a car rental business. Who
would a typical customer be? Mr. Higginbotham replied they had eight stores in the Twin
Cities, and trying to expand local market stores. A typical customer is a leisure customer
that rents on weekends. They have corporate accounts and 5-15% is replacement business
for people renting while their car is being repaired.
Councilmember Omodt noticed in the staff report they asked that cars not be brought in on a
flat bed truck. Would cars be driven from the airport here? Mr. Higginbotham replied they
have part-time drivers on staff to bring vehicles to varying locations or to the airport.
Councilmember Finkelstein asked when cars are dropped off? Mr. Higginbotham replied
they only allow it during normal business hours. They open themselves to liability if they
have after-hour drops. None of their locations allow after-hour drops.
Councilmember Finkelstein asked if he would have any objection adding no after-hour drops
and hours of operation to the conditions of the CUP? Mr. Higginbotham replied no.
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 3a - Council minutes August 1, 2005
Page 11
Councilmember Omodt asked if the condition wouldn’t be specific to the times, because
they might change their hours of operation and would be no after-hours drop?
Councilmember Finkelstein replied no, that there wouldn’t be any expansion of the hours.
He was concerned they didn’t have a 24-hour, seven day a week operation and that there
be no after-hour drop-off of cars disturbing neighbors.
Councilmember Sanger indicated during the Planning Commission hearing people raised
concerns about junker cars in the lot. She assumed Avis would be using new or newly
new cars and would be taking steps to make sure junker cars were not parked there, would
that be correct? Mr. Higginbotham replied yes. Avis only rents brand new cars and only
keep them six to eight months. There is no repair or servicing on-site. They rent cars as
needed and take them back to the airport when they are not.
Councilmember Santa stated there were seven spots for rental cars. Is there adequate
parking for employees? Ms. McGonigal replied yes, there is additional parking on the site.
Helen Miller, 4309-4311 W 36th St, asked how many spaces were available for employee
parking and if they were also the spots used for Midas? Ms. McGonigal replied there were
approximately 25 spaces, other than the seven and some handicapped stalls, it was mixed
for employee and Midas customers.
Ms. Miller stated 36th Street already had more cars parked on it than there was space and
there was need for more parking. They couldn’t afford any more cars on the street.
Mayor Jacobs asked if that was enough parking on-site? Ms. McGonigal replied it met the
parking requirements.
Joe Stranek, Midas Owner, stated there were an additional five spaces in front of Midas.
Avis could also park eight cars inside. When he visits the store, there is always ample
parking in the back. If there is an overflow of parking on 36th, he didn’t believe it came
from his business. Avis was replacing the transmission shop, so that problem would be
alleviated.
Ken Falkner, neighbor, stated he was the one that the vehicles would be annoying. He
asked to clarify that the parking spaces would be accessed only during the day and that the
request was for seven spaces to be dedicated to overnight parking? That was all that
would be different. He disagreed about the fact that there was enough parking because it
would be an issue in winter when snow is stored in the lot. Ms. McGonigal responded that
the change in use resulted in a reduction of required parking spaces from 17 to 10,
including the seven spaces.
Mr. Falkner agreed that there were a lot of cars parked on 36th St, mostly because of the
double-bungalows West. Someone mentioned blocking off the rear exit. That would make
it difficult for people heading East on Excelsior Blvd. and not a good solution. He had no
problem with cars parking there, although he was concerned about the business operating
on Sunday. A last issue arose this morning when an employee trimmed the arborvitaes
along the parking lot that screened his yard. The vegetation was trimmed five feet off the
ground. Fortunately, he stopped him before they were done. They were not maintaining
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 3a - Council minutes August 1, 2005
Page 12
them, they ruined them. Mr. Stranek stated he didn’t know about this issue, but would
check with the operations manager.
Councilmember Basill asked Mr. Stranek if they would stop trimming against the buffer
yard? Mr. Stranek replied yes.
Councilmember Basill stated they needed to give it time to see if there was an issue with
the back exit onto 36th. Most business would come from Excelsior. If there are problems,
they can research it further. When he looked at this proposal, he had a lot of concerns,
many that the residents brought up, but Planning Commission and staff came up with good
conditions. If Avis doesn’t use this property, there would be another tenant and they
needed to look at the worst-case scenario. He didn’t believe Avis would be the worst use.
They provide a valuable service to the community. Adding the condition regarding hours
of operation was important, because they didn’t want late hours which would disturb
neighbors. With all of the conditions, he thought this use would be OK.
It was moved by Councilmember Basill, seconded by Councilmember Finkelstein, to adopt
Resolution No. 05-106 approving a Conditional Use Permit to allow an automobile
rental facility at 4150 Excelsior Blvd, with the added conditions: Hours of operation shall
be limited to 8 AM – 6 PM Monday through Friday, 8 AM – 4 PM Saturday, and 10 AM –
2 PM Sunday; and, Vehicle drop-off shall be limited to the hours that the business is in
operation.
The motion passed 7-0.
It was moved by Councilmember Basill, seconded by Councilmember Santa, to adopt
Resolution No. 05-107 approving a variance to allow 7 rental cars to be parked within
100 feet of a residentially zoned property.
The motion passed 7-0.
9. Communications
Mayor Jacobs indicated August 2nd is National Night Out (NNO). Bookmark in the Park selected
the book, Tale of Despero, which was nationally recognized. Councilmember’s were provided
with bookmarks to distribute at NNO.
10. Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:34 p.m.
______________________________________ ______________________________________
City Clerk Mayor
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 3b - Study Session Minutes July 11, 2005
Page 1
UNOFFICIAL MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION
July 11, 2005
The meeting convened at 7:10 p.m.
Councilmembers present: John Basill, Sue Santa, Sally Velick, Paul Omodt, Sue Sanger and
Mayor Jeff Jacobs.
Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Harmening); Planner (Mr. Fulton); Planning and Zoning
Supervisor (Ms. McMonigal); Community Development Director (Mr. Locke); Assistant Zoning
Administrator (Mr. Morrisson); and City Clerk (Ms. Reichert).
1. Zoning Code Issues Related to Housing Summit
Planning Commissioners Claudia Johnston-Madison, Carl Roberts and Lynne Carper were
present at the meeting.
Staff presented some possible zoning code changes that would facilitate the expansion of single
family homes in the city. Council considered changes to front, side and corner lot setbacks to
clear up inconsistencies in the current zoning ordinance.
Council also discussed the issue of subdivision of parcels which consist of more than one
underlying platted lot. Confusion exists as to whether a parcel with underlying lots can be split
without replatting or subdividing.
Councilmembers discussed different scenarios and the impact subdivision of larger lots may
have on neighborhoods.
Mayor Jacobs suggested that requirements similar to a CUP approval be put in place to allow
council discretion in their decision to allow or not allow the subdivision.
Councilmember Basill suggested there be restrictions and architectural standards to retain the
character of the neighborhoods.
Councilmember Sanger was opposed to any subdivision of large lots in the city.
Mayor Jacobs commented that some subdivisions would allow for the kind of move-up housing
the residents of the community are asking for. He was in generally in favor and thought council
should build latitude for approval or denial into the application process.
Planning Commissioner Johnston-Madison believed that staff could come up with design
standards and an approval process that council would be satisfied with.
Ms. McMonigal offered to do more research to identify the number and character of properties
which are affected. Staff will return at a future date with more information.
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 3b - Study Session Minutes July 11, 2005
Page 2
Planning Commissioner Robertson asked council to explain the rationale they had used for a
change to the zoning code which would further restrict development of cluster housing in the
city’s residential zoning districts. He expressed concern that council may not be delineating
between the terms “cluster housing” and “townhomes”.
Mr. Harmening explained that the intent of the new ordinance is to provide levels of control the
city needs to guide development, and that the intent is to use this new restriction to allow for
time to look at new provisions that can better control how cluster and townhome developments
occur in the city.
Ms. McMonigal stated that staff intends to hold additional discussions with the council on this
issue in the future.
Staff requested that council consider combining Comp Plan and Zoning applications with
PUC/CUP/Plat/Variance applications. The zoning ordinance currently requires that a comp plan
or zoning amendment process must be completed prior to accepting application for other zoning
approvals related to the development. Combining the processes would allow for review of the
specific development project at the time of comprehensive Plan amendment and rezoning.
Council and staff to place specific conditions on the development project at the time of the comp
plan and rezoning approval, giving us more control over use and other project specifics.
Following discussion, council agreed that this change would allow them more discretion and
directed staff to move forward with the change.
2. Whistle Quiet Zones
Brian Shorten of SRF was in attendance and presented an overview of changes to federal rules
regulating the blowing of whistles at crossings.
Following the presentation Mr. Rardin asked council if they wished to consider implementing
Whistle Quiet Zones in St. Louis Park, as was recommended by the St. Louis Park Railroad
Advisory Task Force.
Mayor Jacobs was concerned about the high cost of implementing the WQZ’s. He believed the
$4 million could more wisely be spent on other projects. He also questioned the wisdom of
spending the initial $40,000 for the assessment if the city had no resources to fully implement the
WQZ’s.
Councilmembers Santa and Sanger felt that we should at least move forward with the initial
assessment as recommended by the task force. Councilmember Sanger specifically wanted to
understand the technical issues with implementation before decisions were made.
Councilmember Basill asked if there was latitude to undertake portions of the WQZ
recommendations, or if the city was bound to complete all of the recommendatins or none.
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 3b - Study Session Minutes July 11, 2005
Page 3
Mr. Shorten responded that any partial projects undertaken would need to be 1.5 miles long each.
Council directed staff to move forward with an initial feasibility study concentrating on the
technical aspects of implementing the WQZ’s. Following the technical study, a public process
will be designed regarding implementation.
3. Novartis Update
Staff reviewed with the council Novartis Nutrition Corporation’s options to expand or relocate
its local operations and receive feedback on the EDA/City efforts to retain and expand the
company’s facility in St. Louis Park. Sid Inman of Ehler’s and Associates was present a the
meeting.
Mr. Hunt provided options for economic develoment packages we could put on the table for
Novartis and asked permission to pursue grants from the State of MN.
Councilmembers agreed that retaining Novartis Corporation in St. Louis Park was very
important and placed their full support behind staff’s efforts as they prepared an incentive
package for presentation.
Mr. Rardin added that there would be opportunity for improvements to the city’s stormwater
system if proposed modifications were made to Novartis’ existing plant.
Mr. Harmening informed the council that a meeting with Novartis officials would take place on
August 3rd. More information was to follow.
4. Excess Public Land Update
Staff provided council with an update on the status of the process for considering the possible
sale of excess property in St. Louis Park.
Councilmember Sanger requested that council receive the technical information they had
requested prior to the public hearing.
Mr. Harmening and Mr. Locke suggested that a study session be held to present to the council
the analysis of field work, title work, historical data, as well as summary of resident input from
meetings and correspondence. The refined sale process and design guidelines will also be
discussed. At that meeting the standard study session protocol would be observed.
A subsequent city council meeting would be held and televised to allow members of the public to
comment on the proposed sale of property.
4. Cable Television Update – Transfer of Franchise
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 3b - Study Session Minutes July 11, 2005
Page 4
Mr. Pires met with council to provide a brief update on the cable television franchise transfer and
status of the negotiations. A public hearing will be called for August 15th.
6. Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 10:45 p.m.
______________________________________ ______________________________________
City Clerk Mayor
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
081505 - 4a - Appoint 2005 Election Judges
Page 1
4a. Motion to adopt a Resolution appointing election judges for the Primary and
General Elections to be held September 13 and November 8, 2005.
Background:
Minnesota Statutes and City Charter require that election judge appointments be made at least 25
days before the election at which the election judges will serve. The attached resolution contains
the names of individuals who have been selected to serve as election judges at this fall’s primary
and general elections.
Council’s action on this resolution will serve to appoint judges for both the primary and general
elections and training of judges for both elections will proceed almost immediately. Another
resolution will be presented to Council in October to appoint additional judges and to make
adjustments in staffing that may be necessary prior to the general election. Additional training
sessions will also be held in late October for judges unable to attend the August sessions.
Attachments: Resolution
Prepared by: Cindy Reichert, City Clerk
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
081505 - 4a - Appoint 2005 Election Judges
Page 2
RESOLUTION NO. 05-108
A RESOLUTION APPOINTING ELECTION JUDGES FOR THE
PRIMARY AND GENERAL ELECTIONS OF 2005
WHEREAS, Primary and General Elections will be held on September 13 and November
8, 2005 and the City must appoint judges no later than 25 days before each election by resolution
of the City Council:
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the following persons have agreed to serve
as Election Judges and are hereby appointed to serve:
Ward 1 Precinct 1
Benilde/St. Margaret’s High School
Schoen Lou Chair
Steege Richard Co-Chair
Laiderman Nessa Lee
Mayes Nancy
Brown Carol
Ward 1 Precinct 2
Peter Hobart Primary Center
Hintz Todd Chair
Slager Eunice Co-Chair
Maynard Mary
Rheinhart Ethel
Muszynski Mary Ann
Ward 1 Precinct 3
Groves Academy
Tape William Chair Primary
Rainey William Co-Chair Primary
Drache Kay Chair General
Thorne Richard Co-Chair General
Murman Jeffrey 2-9
Krishef Dale 6-2
J. Hamilton Kurtz - Primary
Rawls Deb - General
Byrd Kathleen - General
Ward 1 Precinct 4
Groves Academy
LaPray Jami Chair
Novotney Dolores Co-Chair
Botner Loren
Malcomson Nanette
Cox JoAnn
Murman Gloria
Ward 1 Precinct 5
City Hall - Community Room
Berthene Sandra Chair
Ruhl Barbara Co-Chair
Manuel Julie Anne
Kurtz Kirsten
Hill Geraldine
Ward 2 Precinct 6
City Hall Council Chambers
Marsden Rick Chair
Brehmer David Co-Chair
Meyer Michael
Nalezny Lois
Juntunen Jan
Ward 2 Precinct 7
SLP Rec Center
Plumeri Margaret Chair
Wagner Catherine Co-Chair
Struss Michele
Bagloo Ira
Vekich Susan
Ward 2 Precinct 8
Susan Lindgren Intermediate Center
Vitale Kristine Chair
Shoger Rachel Co-Chair
Monson Patricia
Richards Margie
Theissen Katherine
Ward 2 Precinct 9
Aldersgate United Methodist Church
Larson David Chair
Bjorgaard Deb Co-Chair
Capra Sandy
Hendrix Mary
Iacono John
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
081505 - 4a - Appoint 2005 Election Judges
Page 3
Ward 3 Precinct 10
Prince of Peace Lutheran Church
Tape William Chair
Rainey William Co-Chair
Quilling Shirley
Johnson Carol
Deane Betty
Ward 3 Precinct 11
SLP Senior High School
Nelson Dorothy Chair
Serrell Judith Co-Chair
Benson Janet
Silvernail Arleene
Hamilton Sylvia Posz
Ward 3 Precinct 12
Lenox Community Center
Otterblad Patricia Chair
Smits George Co-Chair
Berglund Brenda
Meyers Sally
Scully MaryJo
Ward 3 Precinct 13
Aquila Primary Center
Williams Michael Chair
Bjoraker Erik Co-Chair
Grove Henry
Metzker Kathy
Kusnetz Robert
Ward 4 Precinct 14
Westwood Lutheran Church
Stulberg Jean Chair
Posz Albert Co-Chair
Tanick Paul
Johnson Shirley
Wheeler Mary
Ward 4 Precinct 15
Peace Presbyterian Church
Martens Brenda Chair
Carlson Cheryl Co-Chair
Peltier Kay
Koepcke Stephen
Smith Esther
Ward 4 Precinct 16
SLP Junior High School
Christensen Mary Lou Chair
Decker Sharon Co-Chair
Savick Elaine
Bratland Rose
Richards David
Ward 4 Precinct 17
Eliot Community Center
Wickersham Mary Chair
Weinstein Joan Co-Chair
Lipson Harvey
Stalling Geri
Nerheim Constance
Absentee Ballot Board Judges
Huiras Ken
Varner Sim
Tangney Alice
Ploof Patricia
Berlin Nancy
Alternate Judges
Worthingham Vivian
Murman Gloria
Bierma Shirley
Swan Jill
Stevenson Leah
Swenson Joyce
Hansen Betty
Skelton Bonnie
Monroe Myrtle
Leader Jackie
Thornsjo Lucille
(Insert Signature Block Here)
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4b - Urban Lofts
Page 1
4b. Motion to approve second reading of ordinance amending the zoning designation
for property located at 1324 and 1332 Kentucky Avenue from C-2 General
Commercial and R2 – Single Family Residential to RC – Multi-Family Residential,
adopt ordinance, approve summary, and authorize publication.
Case No. 05-29-Z
Current Zoning:
1324 Kentucky: C2 – General Commercial
1332 Kentucky: R2 – Single Family Residential
Parcel Size: 0.37 acres when combined
Current Land Use Vacant/Parking/Single Family Home
Proposed Land Use Residential Condominiums
Other required approvals: Planned Unit Development (PUD)
Plat of properties
Background:
Mr. Parrish Hemmeke has applied for amendments to the Comprehensive Plan and the Official
Zoning Map. The Council passed a resolution approving the amendment to the Comprehensive
Plan at its August 1, 2005 regular meeting. That amendment is now undergoing review by the
Metropolitan Council.
The Council also adopted the first reading of an Ordinance amending the Official Zoning Map at
its August 1, 2005 regular meeting. As required by the City’s Charter, all ordinances require two
readings prior to going into effect.
Mr. Hemmeke requests that the parcels at 1332 and 1324 Kentucky Avenue be rezoned from C-2
(General Commercial) and R-2 (Single Family Residential) to R-C (Multi-Family Residential).
Pending approval of the change in zoning, Mr. Hemmeke has indicated that he plans to apply for
a Planned Unit Development to construct a 3-story, 12-unit condominium building.
Further information, including an analysis of the issues surrounding the rezoning request by Mr.
Hemmeke, is included in the attached supplementary information.
Recommendation: Motion to approve second reading of ordinance amending the zoning
designation for property located at 1324 and 1332 Kentucky Avenue from C-2 General
Commercial and R2 – Single Family Residential to RC – Multi-Family Residential, adopt
ordinance, approve summary, and authorize publication.
Attachments: Ordinance No. OOO, Amending Zoning Map Designation
Summary of Ordinance No. OOO
Existing and Proposed Zoning Map
Site Plan for Proposed Development
Staff Report for Case Nos. 05-28-CP and 05-29-Z, August 1, 2005
Prepared by: Adam Fulton, Associate Planner
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4b - Urban Lofts
Page 2
ORDINANCE NO. 2299-05
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ST. LOUIS PARK ORDINANCE CODE
CHANGING BOUNDARIES OF ZONING DISTRICTS
1324 and 1332 KENTUCKY AVENUE SOUTH
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. 05-29-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:
Parcel 1: Lots 357 and 358, “Richmond”
Parcel 2: That part of Lots 355 and 356, “Richmond”, lying Southeasterly of the
following described line: beginning at a point on the West line of said Lot 356, distant 3
feet North of the Southwest corner thereof; thence run Northeasterly to the Northeast
corner of Lot 355, said Richmond and there terminating, except any portion thereof taken
for highway or street purposes.
from R-1 Single Family Residential to RC Multi-Family Residential (Parcel 1) and C-2 General
Commercial to RC Multi-Family Residential (Parcel 2).
Section 3. The contents of Planning Case File 05-29-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
Reviewed for Administration
City Manager Mayor
Attest: Approved as to Form and Execution:
City Clerk City Attorney
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4b - Urban Lofts
Page 3
SUMMARY
ORDINANCE NO. 2299-05
AN ORDINANCE CHANGING BOUNDARIES OF ZONING DISTRICTS
1324 and 1332 KENTUCKY AVENUE SOUTH
This ordinance states boundaries of zoning districts for 1324 and 1332 Kentucky Avenue South
will be changed from C2 General Commercial and R2 Single Family Residential to RC – Multi-
Family Residential.
This ordinance shall take effect upon Metropolitan Council approval of associated
Comprehensive Plan amendment.
Adopted by the City Council August 15, 2005
Jeffrey W. Jacobs /s/
Mayor
A copy of the full text of this ordinance is available for inspection with the City Clerk.
Published in St. Louis Park Sailor: August 25, 2005
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4c - Knollwood PARB
Page 1
1
4c Motion to approve resolution calling for a public hearing regarding the issuance of
multifamily housing revenue refunding bonds under Minnesota statutes, chapter
462c for the benefit of Knollwood Place Apartments Project
Background:
In 1985 the City of St. Louis Park issued $10,145,000 of Private Activity Revenue Bonds for the
benefit of the Knollwood Place Apartments Project. The proceeds of the original bond issue
went to the Community Housing and Service Corporation, the owners of the Knollwood Place
Apartments Project. The 1985 bond issue was subsequently refunded/refinanced in 1995.
The City has received a request from Sholom Community Alliance, Knollwood Place
Apartments Project Management Company, an affiliate of Community Housing and Service
Corporation, to refinance the 1995 debt as well as to replace windows and upgrade the exterior
of the building.
Sholom Community Alliance is requesting the City to issue Variable Rate Demand Multifamily
Housing Revenue Refunding Bonds for the benefit of Knollwood Place Apartments Project in
the approximate principal amount not to exceed $12,300,000, to refund the outstanding bonds
and refinance the existing bonds. They are also asking the City to issue a Housing Revenue Note
in the approximate principal amount not to exceed $2,700,000, to finance capital improvements
and related expenditures with respect to the Project under the Act.
The City of St. Louis Park is not responsible for the repayment of this debt. The Community
Housing and Service Corporation submitted the required $2,500 application fee along with the
appropriate application materials. In addition, they will be responsible for paying a bond
administration fee of 1/8 of 1% of the outstanding principal to the City. The City of St. Louis
Park is currently receiving this bond administrative fee based on the outstanding debt of
$8,860,000.
Recommendation:
Staff has been working closely with Kennedy & Graven on this application and recommends
approval of this refunding issue.
Next Steps:
September 19 Public Hearing and sale of bonds
September 26 Community Housing and Service Corporation close on bonds
Attachments: Resolution
Prepared By: Jean McGann, Director of Finance
Approved By: Tom Harmening, City Manager
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4c - Knollwood PARB
Page 2
2
CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION NO. 05-109
RESOLUTION CALLING FOR A PUBLIC HEARING
REGARDING THE ISSUANCE OF MULTIFAMILY HOUSING
REVENUE REFUNDING BONDS UNDER MINNESOTA
STATUTES, CHAPTER 462C
BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota (the “City”) as
follows:
Section 1. Recitals.
1.01. Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 462C, as amended (the “Act”) authorizes the City to issue
revenue bonds to finance a multifamily housing development.
1.02. In 1985, a 153-unit senior housing facility located at 3630 Phillips Parkway in the City (the
“Project”), was originally financed with the proceeds of the Multifamily Housing Revenue Bonds (FHA
Insured Mortgage Loan – Community Housing and Service Corporation Project), Series 1985 (the
“Series 1985 Bonds”), issued by the City in the original principal aggregate amount of $10,240,000. The
Series 1985 Bonds were redeemed and prepaid with the proceeds of the Multifamily Housing Revenue
Refunding Bonds (FHA Insured Mortgage Loans – Community Housing and Service Corporation
Project), Series 1995 (the “Prior Bonds”), issued by the City in the original principal aggregate amount of
$10,160,000.
1.03. Section 462C.03 of the Act requires that in order carry out a project, the City must develop
a housing program and hold a public hearing thereon. In conjunction with the issuance of the Series 1985
Bonds, a housing program was prepared on behalf of Community Housing and Service Corporation, a
Minnesota nonprofit corporation (the “Borrower”). The housing program was submitted to the
Metropolitan Council and the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency for review in accordance with the then
applicable provisions of the Act. An amended and restated housing program (the “Housing Program”)
has been prepared on behalf of the Borrower and is on file with the City.
1.04. The Borrower has proposed that the City issue Variable Rate Demand Multifamily Housing
Revenue Refunding Bonds (Knollwood Place Apartments Project), Series 2005 (the “Bonds”), in the
approximate principal amount not to exceed $12,300,000, to refund the Prior Bonds and refinance the
Project under the Act. The Borrower has also proposed that the City issue a Housing Revenue Note
(Knollwood Place Apartments Project), Series 2005 (the “Note”), in the approximate principal amount
not to exceed $2,700,000, to finance capital improvements and related expenditures with respect to the
Project under the Act.
1.05. Section 147(f) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and regulations
promulgated thereunder, requires that prior to the issuance of the Bonds and the Note, this Council
approve the Bonds and the Note after conducting a public hearing thereon.
Section 2. Public Hearing.
2.01. The City Council shall meet at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, September 19, 2005, to conduct a
public hearing on the issuance of the Bonds and the Note as requested by the Borrower.
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4c - Knollwood PARB
Page 3
3
2.02. The City Manager is authorized and directed to publish notice of the hearing in
substantially the form attached hereto as Exhibit A in a newspaper of general circulation in the City once,
at least fifteen (15) days prior to the date of the public hearing.
Section 3. City Council Approvals
3.01. The Council hereby states its preliminary intention to issue the Bonds to refund the Prior
Bonds and refinance the Project, and to issue the Note to finance capital improvements and related
expenditures with respect to the Project, subject to compliance with the terms and conditions of the Act
and the final agreement among the City, the Borrower and the initial purchaser of the Bonds and the Note
as to the terms and conditions thereof.
3.02. The Council hereby approves the Housing Program in the form now on file with the City.
The Council hereby authorizes the submission of the Housing Program to the Metropolitan Council for its
review in accordance with the terms of the Act.
Section 4. Reimbursement of Costs under the Code.
4.01. The United States Department of the Treasury has promulgated final regulations
governing the use of the proceeds of tax-exempt bonds, all or a portion of which are to be used to
reimburse the City or a borrower from the City for project expenditures paid prior to the date of issuance
of such bonds. Those regulations (Treasury Regulations, Section 1.150-2) (the “Regulations”) require
that the City adopt a statement of official intent to reimburse an original expenditure not later than
sixty (60) days after payment of the original expenditure. The Regulations also generally require that the
bonds be issued and the reimbursement allocation made from the proceeds of the bonds occur within
eighteen months after the later of: (i) the date the expenditure is paid; or (ii) the date the project is placed
in service or abandoned, but in no event more than three years after the date the expenditure is paid. The
Regulations generally permit reimbursement of capital expenditures and costs of issuance of the bonds.
4.02. To the extent any portion of the proceeds of the Bonds or the Note will be applied to
expenditures with respect to the Project, the City reasonably expects to reimburse the Borrower for the
expenditures made for costs of the Project from the proceeds of the Bonds or the Note after the date of
payment of all or a portion of such expenditures. All reimbursed expenditures shall be capital
expenditures, costs of issuance of the Bonds or the Note, or other expenditures eligible for reimbursement
under Section 1.150-2(d)(3) of the Regulations and also qualifying expenditures under the Act.
Section 5. Effective Date. This Resolution shall be in full force and effect from and after its
passage. Approved by the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park this 15th day of August,
2005.
CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
By
Mayor
By
City Manager
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4c - Knollwood PARB
Page 4
4
EXHIBIT A
CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE ISSUANCE OF
REVENUE REFUNDING BONDS AND A REVENUE NOTE
UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES, CHAPTER 462C, AS
AMENDED, TO REFINANCE A MULTIFAMILY RENTAL
HOUSING DEVELOPMENT
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council (the “Council”) of the City of St. Louis
Park, Minnesota (the “City”), will hold a public hearing on Monday, September 19, 2005, on or after
7:30 p.m. at City Hall, 5005 Minnetonka Boulevard in the City, to consider the issuance of revenue
refunding bonds (the “Bonds”), and a revenue note (the “Note”), under Minnesota Statutes, Chapter
462C, as amended (the “Act”). The Bonds are proposed to be issued to refinance a 153-unit senior
housing facility located at 3630 Phillips Parkway, near the intersection of Highway 169 and Highway 7,
in the City (the “Project”). The Note is proposed to be issued to finance capital improvements and related
expenditures with respect to the Project. The Project is currently owned and operated by Community
Housing and Service Corporation, a Minnesota nonprofit corporation.
The Project was originally financed with the proceeds of the Multifamily Housing Revenue
Bonds (FHA Insured Mortgage Loan – Community Housing and Service Corporation Project),
Series 1985 (the “Series 1985 Bonds”) issued by the City in the original principal aggregate amount of
$10,240,000. The Series 1985 Bonds were redeemed and prepaid with the proceeds of the Multifamily
Housing Revenue Refunding Bonds (FHA Insured Mortgage Loans – Community Housing and Service
Corporation Project), Series 1995 (the “Prior Bonds”), issued by the City in the original principal
aggregate amount of $10,160,000.
Following the public hearing, the Council will consider adoption of a resolution approving the
issuance of the Bonds to refund the Prior Bonds and refinance the Project and the issuance of the Note to
finance capital improvements and related expenditures with respect to the Project. The aggregate face
amount of the Bonds proposed to be issued to refinance the Project is presently estimated not to exceed
$12,300,000. The aggregate face amount of the Note proposed to be issued to finance the Project is
presently estimated not to exceed $2,700,000. The Bonds and the Note will be issued by the City and will
be limited obligations of the City payable solely from the revenues pledged to the payment thereof.
Neither the Bonds nor the Note will be general or moral obligations of the City. The Bonds and the Note
will not be secured by or payable from any assets, revenues, or other property of the City (except the
interests of the City in the Project) and will not be secured by or payable from any revenues derived from
any application of the taxing powers of the City.
All persons desiring to be heard during this public hearing will be afforded an opportunity to do
so.
Dated: [date of publication]
BY ORDER OF THE CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK,
MINNESOTA
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4c - Knollwood PARB
Page 5
5
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4d - Woodale-TH 7 STIP Application
Page 1
4d Motion to Adopt Resolution of Support for Trunk Highway 7/Wooddale Avenue
Interchange Improvements.
Background: A proposed project is being submitted for federal funding under the Surface
Transportation Program (STP) in the Non-Freeway Principal Arterial category for Trunk
Highway 7 (T.H. 7). This proposed project would provide for the construction of a grade-
separated interchange at Wooddale Avenue and T.H. 7. The project would also include
pedestrian and bicycle friendly improvements along with re-configuration of the frontage roads
in order to improve access, safety, and traffic flow for both the T.H. 7 corridor and Wooddale
Avenue. The City of St. Louis Park is submitting this application with the support of the
Minnesota Department of Transportation (Mn/Dot). This proposed improvement is essential in
meeting the transportation and safety needs of both Mn/Dot and the City, and has been identified
accordingly in the City’s Capital Improvement Program (C.I.P.) and Comprehensive Plan.
In addition to high commuter usage in the T.H. 7 corridor, the T.H. 7/Wooddale intersection
experiences many other traffic and safety related problems. Due to significant congestion and
delays on T.H. 100 during peak hour conditions, motorists often exit T.H. 100 at 36th Street to
utilize Wooddale Avenue as an alternate route to T.H. 7 or points beyond. The current T.H.
7/Wooddale intersection also presents constraints and issues, in that a closely spaced frontage
road, freight and commuter railroad tracks, and a regional trail are all located in very close
proximity to the intersection. Back-ups on Wooddale Avenue often extend on to 36th Street.
Despite recent signal timing modifications by Mn/Dot to the T.H. 7 corridor, the T.H.
7/Wooddale intersection still experiences significant delays during the peak traffic periods. In
addition, potential future re-development activities and associated traffic studies have determined
that the T.H. 7/Wooddale improvement is a critical element in meeting the future transportation
needs in this area.
T.H. 7 also provides a barrier for bicycles and pedestrians to cross at Wooddale Avenue. The
separated grade interchange will therefore provide opportunities for pedestrians and bicyclists to
safely cross the T.H. 7 corridor in order to link with destinations such as schools, recreation and
transit facilities, and future light rail.
Process: The Surface Transportation Program funding application must be submitted to the
Metropolitan Council by August 19, 2005. The solicitation process is conducted by the
Metropolitan Council and a Transportation Advisory Board (TAB). Over a period of several
months, various groups review and score the applications in accordance with established criteria.
Projects in specific categories are ranked by total score and are endorsed accordingly. This
process continues through the fall months and a recommendation is eventually forwarded by a
Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC) to the TAB which ultimately recommends a list of
projects in the draft 2007-20010 program. This process is expected to be completed by
February, 2006.
Cost: If the application is approved, construction would be expected to commence in 2009 and
be completed in 2010. Total project cost, not including right of way, is estimated to be $10
million. At this time, $5,500,000 in federal funds is being requested. A local (State and City)
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4d - Woodale-TH 7 STIP Application
Page 2 match of that amount would also be needed. At this time, it is not known specifically what the
Mn/Dot vs. City share would be. However, City funds would be expected to be provided from a
combination of Tax Increment Financing (TIF)/Development Fund and State Aid Funds.
Recommendation: Staff recommends adopting the attached resolution providing support for
funding for the Trunk Highway 7/Wooddale Avenue Interchange Improvements.
Attachments: Resolution
Prepared by: Scott Brink, City Engineer
Reviewed by: Michael Rardin, Director of Public Works
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4d - Woodale-TH 7 STIP Application
Page 3
RESOLUTION NO. 05-110
RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT OF TRUNK HIGHWAY 7/WOODDALE AVENUE
INTERCHANGE IMPROVEMENTS, CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park is the official governing body
of the City of St. Louis Park; and
WHEREAS, this project is consistent with the City of St. Louis Park Capital
Improvement Plan and Comprehensive Plan and it is believed to be consistent with the policies
of the Metropolitan Council’s Development Guide, including the Transportation Policy Plan and
Regional Development Framework; and
WHEREAS, this project is located in a significant high use transportation corridor
(Trunk Highway 7) in the Twin Cities metropolitan area; and
WHEREAS, this project supports improvements planned to the regional and local
transportation system at T.H. 7 and Wooddale Avenue; and
WHEREAS, this project supports and enhances inter-modal transportation uses,
including motor vehicle, transit, light rail, bicycle, and pedestrian uses; and
WHEREAS, this project implements a solution in the form of continuity, capacity, and
safety to a transportation problem and provides upgrade to the regional transportation system;
and
WHEREAS, the City of St. Louis Park in conjunction with it partners accept
responsibility for an amount equal to or greater than 20 percent of the eligible project
construction cost, together with costs for design, administration, right-of-way, and peripheral
project costs.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of St. Louis
Park in regular meeting assembled to adopt this Resolution in support of the request for federal
funds under the Surface Transportation Program for the Trunk Highway 7/Wooddale Avenue
Interchange Improvement project.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a copy of this Resolution be provided to the
Metropolitan Council Transportation Advisory Board and Technical Advisory Commission with
the Trunk Highway 7/Wooddale Avenue Interchange Improvement project submittal.
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4d - Woodale-TH 7 STIP Application
Page 4 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Mayor and City Manager are hereby
authorized to execute such agreement and any amendments, and thereby assume for and on
behalf of the City all of the contractual obligations contained therein.
Passed and adopted this 15th day of August, 2005.
Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the City Council August 15, 2005
City Manager Mayor
Attest:
City Clerk
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4e - Alley Paving Petition Princeton-Ottawa
Page 1
4e. Motion to adopt the attached resolution that declares the petition adequate
for the purposes of preparing a formal City Engineer’s Report on the
feasibility and costs associated with a proposed alley paving project in the
2900 block of Princeton and Ottawa Avenue – Project No. 2005-1800.
Background: On April 8, 2005 residents from the 2900 block of Princeton and Ottawa Avenue
submitted a petition to the City requesting the alley be paved in accordance with the City’s
standard for alleys, and that the cost of the improvements be assessed against all benefited
properties. Mr. Mark Tucker of 4800 Minnetonka Blvd. circulated the petition.
The City’s Alley Paving Policy requires that at least 51% of the property owners (based on alley
front feet) sign a petition for the improvement in order to investigate the feasibility and cost of
construction.
Petition Analysis: Signatures, representing 74.1% of the alley footage, have been obtained.
This represents 16 of the 20 assessable properties. Therefore, the petition is deemed adequate in
order to prepare a City Engineer’s report for review by the City Council.
Project Timing: Surveying of the site was recently completed this summer. Staff is now
analyzing the site information to determine if the alley construction is feasible. This feasibility
report will be brought back to the City Council. Once the project is determined feasible and a
preliminary design has been completed, staff will hold a meeting with the affected residents to
inform them of the project. A public hearing will also need to be held prior to approval. If the
project proceeds, construction will likely occur this Fall.
Attachments: Petitioner List
Resolution
Petition (Supplement)
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
Item: 081505 - 4e - Alley Paving Petition Princeton-Ottawa
Page 2
RESOLUTION NO. 05-111
RESOLUTION DECLARING ADEQUACY OF PETITION
AND ORDERING PREPARATION OF A REPORT TO DETERMINE
THE FEASIBILITY OF CONSTRUCTING AN ALLEY IN THE
2900 BLOCK OF PRINCETON AND OTTAWA AVENUE
CITY PROJECT NO. 2005-1800
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park has received a petition signed
by affected property owners related to alley paving in the 2900 block of Princeton and Ottawa
Avenue.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of St. Louis
Park, Minnesota, that:
1. The City’s Alley Paving Policy requires that a petition containing signatures from at least
51% of the affected property owners be received in order to investigate the feasibility and
cost of construction.
2. A certain petition requesting the improvement of the alley in the 2900 block of Princeton
and Ottawa Avenue, filed with the Council on August 15, 2005, is hereby declared to be
signed by the required percentage of owners of property affected thereby. This
declaration is made in conformity to Minn. Stat. § 429.035.
3. The petition is hereby referred to the City Engineer who is instructed to report to the
Council with all convenient speed advising the Council in a preliminary way as to
whether the proposed improvement is necessary, cost-effective, and feasible and as to
whether it should best be made as proposed or in connection with some other
improvement, and the estimated cost of the improvement as recommended.
Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the City Council August 15, 2005
City Manager Mayor
Attest:
City Clerk
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4e - Alley Paving Petition Princeton-Ottawa
Page 3
Petition Signatures
for Concrete Alley Paving in
2900 Block of Princeton/Ottawa Avenue
Address
Alley Front
Footage
Petition Signed by Property
Owners
2901 Princeton Avenue South 40 *
2905 Princeton Avenue South 40 *
2909 Princeton Avenue South 40
2913 Princeton Avenue South 40 *
2917Princeton Avenue South 40 *
2921 Princeton Avenue South 40 *
2925 Princeton Avenue South 40
2929 Princeton Avenue South 40 *
2933 Princeton Avenue South 40 *
2939 Princeton Avenue South 86
2900 Ottawa Avenue South 70 *
2908 Ottawa Avenue South 45 *
2912 Ottawa Avenue South 45 *
2916 Ottawa Avenue South 40 *
2920 Ottawa Avenue South 40 *
2924 Ottawa Avenue South 40 *
2928 Ottawa Avenue South 80
2936 Ottawa Avenue South 40 *
4800 Minnetonka Boulevard 40 *
4806 Minnetonka Boulevard 65 *
Total 951
Petition signed by 74.1% of the alley front footage (705 feet / 951 feet)
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4f - Resolution for final payment - Hunerberg
Page 1
RESOLUTION NO. 05-112
RESOLUTION ACCEPTING CONSTRUCTION OF
ENCLOSED PARK BUUILDING AND OPEN PICNIC SHELTER
AT OAK HILL PARK
CONTRACT NO. 50-04
BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota, as
follows:
1. Pursuant to a written contract with the City dated June 1, 2005, Hunerberg Construction
Company has satisfactorily completed work on the enclosed park building and open
picnic shelter at Oak Hill Park, as per Contract No. 50-04.
2. The Director of Parks and Recreation has filed her recommendations for final acceptance
of the work.
3. The work completed under this contract is accepted and approved. The City Manager is
directed to make final payment on the contract, taking the contractor's receipt in full.
Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the City Council August 15, 2005
City Manager Mayor
Attest:
City Clerk
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4g - Fire Comm Minutes 051105
Page 1
MINUTES
FIRE CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION
May 11, 2005 – 8:00 a.m.
FIRE CONFERENCE ROOM, 1ST FLOOR CITY HALL
1) The meeting was called to order at 8:10 a.m. by President MacMillan.
2) In attendance were Commission President William MacMillan, Commissioners David Lee and
Marjorie Douville. Also present were Ali Fosse, Human Resources Coordinator/Staff Liaison; Luke
Stemmer, Fire Chief; and Bill Ryan, Union President.
3) A correction for a typo was made to the minutes of April 1, 2005. A motion was made by
Commissioner Lee, seconded by Commissioner Douville to accept the corrected minutes from the
April 1, 2005 meeting. The motion carried unanimously.
4) Chief Stemmer updated the Commission on the status of the vacant Firefighter position. One of the
names certified, Eric Tate, has declined certification. Therefore, the Commissioners need to certify
the next name on the list to fill the vacancy.
5) A motion was made by Commissioner Douville, seconded by Commissioner Lee to certify the next
highest name on the Firefighter Eligibility Register (Matthew Nordby). Chief Stemmer indicated the
timeline for selecting someone from the 3 certified names to fill the position would be two weeks.
The motion carried unanimously.
6) Other business: Chief Stemmer updated the Commission on the status of the vacant Fire Captain
position. The City’s attorney wrote an opinion letter indicating that we do not need to have 3 names
on the Eligibility Register and can fill the position using one of the two names currently certified on
the register. The Chief indicated that a decision would be made by the Appointing Authority to fill
the vacancy within the next two weeks.
7) A motion was made by Commissioner Lee, seconded by Commissioner Douville to adjourn the
meeting. The Commission adjourned at 8:20 a.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Ali Fosse
City Staff Liaison to the Fire Civil Service Commission
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4h - Telecom Minutes May 5, 2005
Page 1
OFFICIAL MINUTES
ST. LOUIS PARK TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
MEETING OF MAY 5, 2005
SCHOOL BOARD MEETING ROOM C350
MEMBERS PRESENT: Bruce Browning, Rick Dworsky, Dale Hartman, Ken Huiras, Bob
Jacobson, Mary Jean Overend
MEMBERS ABSENT: Rolf Peterson
STAFF PRESENT: Reg Dunlap, Civic TV Coordinator; John McHugh, Community
TV Coordinator
OTHERS PRESENT: Cindy Reichert, City Clerk; Tom Marble, School District #283
Director of Information Services
1. Call to Order
Vice Chair Overend called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.
2. Roll Call
Present at roll call were Commissioners Browning, Hartman, Huiras, Jacobson and Overend
3. Approval of Minutes for February 3, 2005
It was moved by Commissioner Huiras, seconded by Commissioner Hartman, to approve
the minutes of February 3, 2005, without changes. The motion passed 5-0.
4. Adoption of Agenda
It was moved by Commissioner Jacobson, seconded by Commissioner Huiras, to approve
the agenda. The motion passed 5-0.
5. Public Comment - None
6. New Business
A. By Laws Amendments
Ms. Reichert discussed the changes to the Commission By Laws, as in her report.
Commissioner Huiras asked if the section regarding term of office was true of all
commissions? Ms. Reichert replied it was what the Telecommunication Commission had
set up. Individual committees could determine their own rules.
Commissioner Huiras asked if youth members could vote and if that were different by
Commission? Ms. Reichert replied the Council made a change in the ordinance which
pertains to Commissions to allow youth members to vote with the exception of committees
where it involved personal property.
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4h - Telecom Minutes May 5, 2005
Page 2
Commissioner Huiras asked about section 4.4, special meetings, where it indicated that
notice be posted on the City bulletin board? Ms. Reichert responded that the Chair or
three other Commissioners could call special meetings and that this was statutory
language.
Commissioner Huiras asked under the Rules and Procedures section, if anything said a
person could be on multiple commissions? Ms. Reichert replied no. The Council had
discussed prohibiting people from serving on more than one commission, but it hadn’t
been incorporated yet.
It was moved by Commissioner Jacobson, seconded by Commissioner Huiras, to accept
the By Laws as presented. The motion passed 5-0.
B. City Clerk presentation on records retention & open meeting law
Ms. Reichert reported on record retention policies and open meeting laws.
Commissioner Huiras asked if they received something from staff on their home computers,
they were required to retain that record? Ms. Reichert replied yes, however staff would
retain correspondence for three years. If Commissioners communicate with each other or
with members of the public, it would be their responsibility to maintain the record.
Ms. Reichert completed the report.
Commissioner Jacobson asked about the City’s policy on social security numbers? Ms.
Reichert replied that they were private.
Commissioner Jacobson asked why they were requested on some City documents?
Ms. Reichert replied they could collect the information, but were not allowed to
disseminate the information.
Commissioner Jacobson requested clarification regarding the need for social security
numbers. Ms. Reichert replied she would research that information and respond back.
C. School District funding for 2005 & quarterly report
Tom Marble, Director of Information Services for the School District, reported on the
funding and quarterly report.
Mr. McHugh asked about if the editing system was a replacement unit or if they were moving
an existing one to the junior high? Mr. Marble replied they would set one up in the television
studio to be accessible for after hours use. There would be the addition of one editing system.
Vice Chair Overend asked about if student interest had increased? Mr. Marble responded
it had changed and was coming from more traditional classes (social studies, etc.). The
Media productions class was eliminated a couple of years ago.
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4h - Telecom Minutes May 5, 2005
Page 3
Vice Chair Overend asked if students younger than junior high age were using the
equipment? Mr. Marble replied yes, some elementary students were also using the
equipment because it’s more accessible and the kids were more comfortable with it.
Commissioner Jacobson asked if staff had training on the equipment? Mr. Marble replied
a leadership group was at a training session focused on how to get staff to use the
equipment. They switched to a new student information system and piloting on-line
attendance and working with an on-line grading system. It would be “live” next fall.
Commissioner Jacobson asked if there were already prepared presentations staff could
look at? Mr. Marble replied they have a service called Atomic Learning, an on-line video
streaming on how to use specific pieces of software.
Commissioner Jacobson asked if there was a need to prepare something for the
equipment that the school district used? Mr. Marble replied one of the reasons they went
with Atomic Learning was because it covered much of the things that were common to
every school and every piece of equipment in the district. Training at the senior high
facility would be best done in-person. It was too complex to put into a video.
Commissioner Browning asked if schools would eventually be networked with a central
storage facility? Mr. Marble replied that the vision was to do that with Hopkins. They
presently had a video cooperative where they stored DVD’s and videotapes. The Atomic
Learning service allowed them an on-site option with their own servers and the
downloaded media to their server, which allowed better performance. They would also
have the ability to add their own training videos.
Commissioner Browning asked if there would be a laptop initiative? Mr. Marble replied
yes, it would require long term planning. The first step would be changing the way that
teachers taught.
Commissioner Browning asked if they were equipped with WiFi? Mr. Marble replied
they had wireless “hot spots” in every school, but were not completely wireless.
Teachers at many schools have wireless laptops. Every media center is a wireless hot
spot. They were looking at the possibility of participating in the City’s wireless project.
Commissioner Dworsky arrived.
It was moved by Commissioner Browning, seconded by Commissioner Jacobson, to
continue the $35,000 grant for the School District. The motion passed 6-0.
Commissioner Browning felt the money was being spent wisely and he liked the
direction they were going with the digital equipment.
D. Review School District using interns for extra experience & to produce
programming
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4h - Telecom Minutes May 5, 2005
Page 4
Mr. Marble stated that setting up an intern program was difficult because of supervision
issues. They were looking at high school students assisting and being resources to help
staff and students with general computer problems.
E. Using High School Studio for Community TV productions
Mr. Marble indicated that the biggest hurdle was getting the procedural pieces into place
regarding staffing. Space can be reserved through the community education program.
The studio was complicated and required advanced training.
Mr. McHugh added that they were looking forward to training on the new equipment.
Chair Dworsky asked if they scheduled training for the community? Mr. Marble replied
that could be a possibility.
Mr. McHugh noted it would probably be a community education class. They would
schedule according to need.
Chair Dworsky suggested that be developed further.
Mr. Marble asked if it had been the experience that one or two people used the facility and
become “experts?” Mr. McHugh replied no. One of the proposals was to assure access to the
facility, that there be a projected number of hours with compensation that matched the hours
for using the studio. That would cover personnel expenses that the district would incur.
Commissioner Jacobson asked how much public access time was available? Mr. Marble
responded it would likely be available between 4 PM-10 PM. Days would be determined
based on the amount of demand.
F. Time Warner TV studio use and consider forming a committee for publicizing
availability to citizens
It was moved by Commissioner Huiras, seconded by Commissioner Browning, to table
discussion on this item to a future meeting.
Commissioner Jacobson suggested forming the committee and getting a committee report
before it was put on the agenda.
The following Commissioners expressed interest in being members of the committee:
Overend, Jacobson, Browning and Mr. McHugh as staff representative.
Commissioner Dworsky called the question.
The motion passed 6-0.
7. Old Business
A. Renewal update
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4h - Telecom Minutes May 5, 2005
Page 5
Mr. McHugh indicated that the next meeting with Time Warner would be on May 18th to
discuss proposed changes in the franchise ordinance. There had been no movement on the
significant issues. A transfer to Comcast would be happening at the same time as the renewal.
Commissioner Browning asked how would the fact that Comcast may own the St. Louis
Park system play into this? Mr. McHugh replied it would be better to have the renewal
completed prior to the transfer because in August when the six-month extension for the
franchise runs out, there would not be a valid franchise to transfer because it will have
expired. Therefore, Council could not give approval for a system swap to Comcast
because there wouldn’t be a valid franchise. This was added incentive to get the job done
in the time remaining.
Mr. Dunlap added that the City Manger sent a letter to Time Warner asking them what
the impact this would have on the continuing renewal negotiations.
Commissioner Jacobson asked how the Comcast issue affected connectivity issues that
they had been working with and St. Louis Park getting internet for the citizens? Mr.
McHugh replied Comcast did not offer that kind of connectivity. They offered premium
wire line broadband service, similar to Time Warner.
Commissioner Jacobson asked if wireless internet access would be a private contract or
how it would be handled? Mr. Dunlap replied that Clint Pires was in the process of
hiring a consultant to advise the City and determine what kind of system was feasible. It
would also include what kind of business model was feasible for St. Louis Park including
partnerships with private companies and other entities such as the school district and
other cities. None of that had been determined. A study would occur in the summer.
They were tabulating the informal surveys distributed in the Park Perspective and
Business Line and the results would be available in the next week.
Commissioner Jacobson asked if the City had committed to an investment? Mr. McHugh
replied the investment to date was the fiber optic network, which connects existing City
sites to the City network. By June, the City will have fiber optics going to the Westwood
Nature Center and would not need to spend money for dedicated Qwest telephone lines
for high speed internet and network activities.
Chair Dworsky asked when Time Warner would respond to the changes? Who would
provide notification of when the transition to Comcast would take place? Mr. McHugh
stated they were waiting for the official forms from the two parties that officially
documented what they proposed to do. They didn’t anticipate significant changes and
hoped to accomplish it between nine and twelve months. Time Warner would reply to
the proposed changes at the May 18th meeting. He would send an invitation to the
Commissioners to attend.
B. Emergency Alert System update
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4h - Telecom Minutes May 5, 2005
Page 6
Mr. Dunlap reported that the analog system was tested and worked, but they were unable
to test the digital emergency override. Time Warner was aware that they needed to work
on this. They would test it as soon as they could.
Commissioner Browning stated that the issue with the Emergency Broadcast system
seemed to be going on a long time. Was there a time frame where this had to be working
properly? Mr. Dunlap responded that the franchise agreement said the emergency alert
system should be available on all channels. They were working with Time Warner on
this issue.
Commissioner Browning asked if other communities had this same issue or used the same
device? Mr. Dunlap replied not all franchises called for an emergency alert system. As part
of the negotiations for renewing the franchise, Time Warner did not want to continue an alert
system like this because of the complicated way it interfaced with their digital service. He
was not sure if other cities had this. It is presently required as part of the franchise.
C. Conference policy for Commissioners
Mr. Dunlap noted this was inadvertently put on the agenda. There had not been any changes
to the policy. The City’s budget process hadn’t started yet. As they amended the budget,
staff would budget additional money to allow two commissioners to attend a conference.
D. Update on St. Louis Park wireless internet study
Mr. McHugh reported there would be a Council study session where they would get the
results from the survey. An independent consultant was compiling the results. The
Information Services Manager and the City Manager met with the St. Louis Park Business
Council to describe what the timeline was for the City evaluating its options for wireless.
Telecommunications companies and Time Warner representatives were also there. The
biggest point was that in St. Louis Park DSL is not accessible at City Hall (and many other
places) and options for broadband are limited. The process will conclude in August.
Commissioner Browning asked if this had been discussed in other communities? Mr. McHugh
replied that City staff toured the City of Chaska, which has a similar type of service.
Commissioner Jacobson asked about the possibilities of getting this installed so they
could get the services. Mr. McHugh replied the City could provide it or arrange to have
another entity provide it. Minneapolis was proposing to go with the private sector to
build the service and guarantee to deliver it at a certain price point. That way the City of
Minneapolis would not have the investment expense. The City of St. Louis Park is
reviewing all options and getting input.
8. Reports
A. Complaints
Commissioner Huiras asked about his request for information on voice over internet
telephone (VOIP) counts? Mr. Dunlap replied the number of customers that use the Belt
Line store is an average of 72 per day. Time Warner did not wish to provide information
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4h - Telecom Minutes May 5, 2005
Page 7
about VOIP customers. They did not feel the City of St. Louis Park had any regulatory
authority over that and they didn’t need to provide it.
Commissioner Huiras asked about the status of the first complaint? Mr. Dunlap indicated
he would report back to the Commission.
Commissioner Huiras indicated Mr. Mattern was supposed to provide information
regarding who was dropping service and why. Mr. Dunlap replied that could be
discussed at the next meeting. The meeting in August was when they talk about their
annual filings, financial information and customer service issues.
Commissioner Jacobson believed that Time Warner was doing the same things and
thought nothing had changed or improved. On complaint number two and the bill being
wrong, he had experienced that and hadn’t gotten a correct bill for over four months.
Commissioner Browning asked if there were many service-oriented complaints? Mr.
Dunlap responded the complaints in the packet were from February 17th until the date of
this meeting. There were only three, which was not very many.
9. Communication from the Chair
Commissioner Huiras indicated that Mr. Dunlap sent an Email regarding basic
subscribers, what was the percentage? Mr. Dunlap replied the percentage was of the total
number of St. Louis Park homes with cable service.
Commissioner Huiras stated that the percentage included Road Runner subscribers that
may not be cable subscribers. Mr. Dunlap indicated there were 13,000 total households
with cable service in St. Louis Park. You don’t have to get cable service to have
Roadrunner. He was trying to track cable subscribers.
10. Communications from City Staff
Mr. Dunlap indicated on May 6th Time Warner was launching a retail product
demonstration cart at Southdale Mall to show HDTV programming, Road Runner high
speed internet and the new telephone product.
Commissioner Browning asked with regard to telephone service, were they required to
provide 911 information? Mr. Dunlap replied yes. They went through the MN State Public
Utilities Commission and their official legal position was that they didn’t feel they had to
provide this, but they would comply to the point that they could. They were doing that
voluntarily. Some operators offering this service were not doing it that way.
Commissioner Browning asked if they had back up for the system if there was a power
outage so people don’t lose phone service? Mr. Dunlap replied they had back up
systems. If they had a wire line telephone, they had battery back ups, even though the
power was out. If you have a cordless phone, with at base station plugged into the wall,
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4h - Telecom Minutes May 5, 2005
Page 8
that phone wouldn’t work. The Time Warner service would be out if you don’t have
electrical service because it was not hard wired. They had an interface in each
subscriber’s home and he was unsure if there was battery back up. He could check
further and send an Email.
Commissioner Huiras noted that with Vonage, you have the ability to transfer the call to
another number such as a cell phone. Wasn’t it mandatory that they had to be able to do
911 and recognize it? Mr. Dunlap replied that Vonage does not automatically provide a
correct address to 911 and does not have the same kind of architecture that the Time
Warner system had.
Commissioner Huiras noted that Vonage had the ability to track an address. Mr. Dunlap
believed when someone logged in they could indicate where they were.
Mr. McHugh provided a handout of programs produced by community TV, channels 15 and
96. They would be receiving an FCC Form 320 from Comcast at some point. That would
start a 120-day clock for city review. They were not sure when they would receive it.
Commissioner Jacobson inquired about the date of the special meeting? Mr. Dunlap
replied it was not scheduled. They could discuss it at the August 4th mtg.
11. Adjournment
Commissioner Browning made a motion, Commission Huiras seconded to adjourn at
8:35 PM. The motion passed.
Respectfully submitted by:
Amy L. Stegora-Peterson
Recording Secretary
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4i - Planning Comm minutes 7-20-05
Page 1
OFFICIAL MINUTES
PLANNING COMMISSION
ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
July 20, 2005--6:00 p.m.
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
MEMBERS PRESENT: Lynne Carper, Claudia Johnston-Madison, Dennis Morris,
Carl Robertson, Jerry Timian
MEMBERS ABSENT: Michelle Bissonnette, Robert Kramer
STAFF PRESENT: Adam Fulton, Meg McMonigal, Nancy Sells
1. Call to Order – Roll Call
2. Approval of Minutes of July 6, 2005
Commissioner Robertson made a motion to approve the minutes of July 6, 2005.
Claudia Johnston-Madison seconded the motion, and the motion was approved on
a vote of 5-0.
3. Hearings
A. Park Summit Condos Major Amendment to PUD to Eliminate Age
Restrictions for Residential Condominium Building
Location: 3601 Park Center Boulevard
Applicant: SilverCrest Properties
Case No.: 05-33-PUD
Adam Fulton, Associate Planner, presented the staff report. Mr. Fulton explained
that the proposed changes to the approved Park Summit condominium building
are only to the parking ramp, increasing the number of indoor parking spaces
from 225 to 255. He said the tunnel which was proposed to connect the Park
Summit building to the Park Shores assisted living building to the south will not
be included in the current proposal. Mr. Fulton said the driveway will remain
disconnected from the Park Shores assisted living facility until the City rebuilds
Park Center Blvd.
Commissioner Johnston-Madison suggested that staff look very carefully at the
recommendation that the future Park Summit and Park Shore building entrance be
aligned with the primary entrance to Target directly across Park Center
Boulevard. She said she doesn’t think the configuration would work well. Mr.
Fulton said the design is conceptual at this point in time.
Official Minutes
Planning Commission
July 20, 2005
Page 2
Commissioner Morris asked if an analysis had been done on the effect of losing
150 senior housing units.
Mr. Fulton responded that an analysis has not been done. He said the applicant
may be addressing this issue. He said that staff relied primarily upon the
Comprehensive Plan which determined that the site was high density housing and
not in particular senior housing.
Commissioner Carper asked about the redesign of Park Center Blvd.
Ms. McMonigal said that when the City proposes to redesign and reconstruct the
boulevard, they will work with all of the property owners to work out the exact
locations. She said the concept was to have the SilverCrest Properties owners
agree that they would change the driveway in the future as needed to create better
movement on the roadway.
Commissioner Carper asked if there were any changes proposed for the green
space.
Mr. Fulton said the Zoning Code doesn’t designate differences between open
space and type of resident.
Commissioner Carper asked about the trail connection and the exit driveway.
Mr. Fulton said the trail is addressed in the conditions of the Final PUD. He said
staff will double check those conditions to make sure that there is appropriate
connection.
Commissioner Carper commented on a projected 50% increase in number of daily
vehicle trips.
Mr. Fulton said that other than the peak hour trips, which are approximately the
same as the existing office building, those trips would be spread throughout the
day.
Commissioner Morris asked the applicant if there were plans to redesign the
interior to meet the expected market.
Mike Gould, applicant, said they do not anticipate a big market shift. They will
still target their marketing to seniors. The project is next to SilverCrest’s assisted
living facility and independent living facility which will naturally draw seniors to
the area. Mr. Gould said as they analyzed the marketplace, looking at an age
restricted building became problematic. As a practical matter they will be
serving the senior community. He said that it became evident that moving the
Official Minutes
Planning Commission
July 20, 2005
Page 3
age restriction, especially in the competitive market today, achieves goals for
everybody and for the feasibility of the project.
Commissioner Morris asked about the original plan showing the first floor as
being either community or office oriented. He asked if the first floor would now
be converted into living units.
Mr. Gould replied that there may a couple of residential units on the first floor as
well as a common area. SilverCrest’s office may or may not be located in the
building. He said he doesn’t see the character of the facility changing from the
original proposal. The unit mix will be very similar. Mr. Gould said that some
common areas may change a little bit, but there will still be many common areas.
Peter Pfister, architect, said there will be 15 surface parking places for visitors and
10 spaces in the ramp. Mr. Pfister said the parking garage will be secured and
controlled.
Commissioner Robertson asked what the mix will be in order to be a bit more
marketable. He wondered about the necessity of removing the age restriction.
He commented that the building will feel like a senior facility as part of the
campus. He asked if removing the restriction provides more flexibility.
Mr. Gould said he didn’t know what the mix will turn out to be. He explained
from the lender’s perspective, and the market study perspective, the ability to be
able to attract all age groups greatly enhances the marketability and absorption of
the project. He went on to say that in a highly competitive environment it’s the
prudent thing to do, but that SilverCrest is basically in the senior business. He
added that the project has to be built all at once and cannot be phased.
Chair Carper opened the public hearing. As no one was present who wished to
speak, he closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Morris made a motion to recommend approval of the Major
Amendment to the Planned Unit Development, for the elimination of age
restrictions at the Park Summit Condominiums. Commissioner Johnston-
Madison seconded the motion, and the motion was approved on a vote of 5-0.
Official Minutes
Planning Commission
July 20, 2005
Page 4
B. Amendment to Comprehensive Plan Designation from Industrial to
Commercial and Rezoning from IP Industrial to C1 Neighborhood
Commercial for 1.5 acre parcel
Location: 5330 Cedar Lake Road
Applicant: JMW Development/Paul Maenner
Case Nos.: 05-34-CP and 05-35-Z
Meg McMonigal, Planning and Zoning Supervisor, presented the staff report. She
distributed a hand-out showing uses allowed in the C-1 District.
Ms. McMonigal commented that the site may be a good site for retail uses from a
marketing and visibility standpoint; however, the C-1 uses are broad and could
have significant impacts. She said that commercial districts are quite wide open
to just about any use. Depending on what the specific use is, it could have
significant traffic and access impacts. It could change the character of the
neighborhood and there is a concern about that. She said that staff recommends
denial of the requests.
Ms. McMonigal remarked that once the zoning is changed any use in the
commercial category could be allowed. She noted that it is a tough site as it is
small, and it doesn’t really relate to the other industrial uses on the site. She said
she can see the potential for retail on the site but without knowing the specific
uses she is not comfortable recommending approval. Ms. McMonigal went on to
say that changes to the Zoning Code are being discussed that would allow
Comprehensive Plan and rezoning applications to be considered at the same time
as Conditional Use Permits and PUDs.
There was a discussion about Podany’s business and whether or not it was
considered a retail use.
Mr. Fulton said he thought Podany’s was classified as a retail showroom which is
a permitted use in the IP Industrial Park district.
Commissioner Johnston-Madison said she liked the idea of something new at the
site but she is concerned about traffic. She asked if the application could be put
on hold until a traffic study is done.
Ms. McMonigal said that could be done but a traffic study would require specific
uses and a site plan, not just a concept plan.
Commissioner Timian asked if a C2 General Commercial designation would work
for the developer.
Ms. McMonigal said C2 is less restrictive than C1.
Official Minutes
Planning Commission
July 20, 2005
Page 5
Paul Maenner, applicant, said staff had suggested that C1 would probably meet
their needs and be more appropriate for what they were trying to accomplish as
C2 would open up more possibilities for traffic issues.
Ms. McMonigal added that C2 allows big box retail and is a much heavier use.
Ms. McMonigal noted that maps in the report had an error. The requests are
being made only for the front 1.5 acre parcel.
Commissioner Morris asked what percentage of the City’s Industrial zoned
property this site comprised.
Ms. McMonigal said the data base for the Industrial Study is currently being
compiled.
Commissioner Johnston-Madison commented that the site is so small that it is
hard to believe it could be developed for any kind of industrial purposes.
Ms. McMonigal responded that there are very few uses allowed in the IP district
that are commercial. Included would be business and trade schools, medical,
optical and dental laboratories, printing process, catering, communication tower,
manufacturing process, showrooms, and storage.
Paul Maenner, applicant, said he wanted the opportunity to address some of the
concerns such as traffic and uses with the Planning Commission.
Mark Johnson, applicant, said the Zoning Code does allow retail in the IP district
if it is incidental to a warehouse type facility. Mr. Johnson said their title
commitment references Res. 85-132 and identifies the zoning as DDD Diversified
Development District. Item 4 of the resolution states that the building may be
used for office, warehouse, retail, health clubs and health clubs.
Mr. Fulton said the Code has been rewritten and the DDD zoning designation no
longer exists.
Mr. Johnson said traffic is a concern as two large retail anchors generate a
significant amount of traffic. He said they are prepared to better define the
types of uses for the site and have a traffic engineer run some projections based
on those uses and compare them to the current condition. Mr. Johnson said just
prior to the meeting he asked Ms. McMonigal to provide them with the current
level of service for the intersection at Cedar Lake Rd. and Parkdale.
Mr. Johnson commented on the City-owned right-of-way on the site. He
discussed the dedicated right turn lane in front of the property. He suggested that
Official Minutes
Planning Commission
July 20, 2005
Page 6
any other proposed geometrics proposed for that intersection would be difficult
because of Office Max in the northeast quadrant, the office park to the north, the
athletic club to the south, and specific access points from Cedar Lake Road to
Highway 100. Mr. Johnson went on to say that the probability of something
dramatic needing to be done there is somewhat limited because of existing
development.
Chair Carper opened the public hearing. As no one was present wishing to
speak, the Chair closed the public hearing.
A discussion was held regarding options for the applicant.
Commission Johnston-Madison said she’d like the Commission to consider
tabling the requests due to lack of information.
Commissioner Morris said there is a need for eating establishments in the area,
especially if that area is more opened up to office and retail. He said he is
concerned about creating a block that has two zoning uses. He said from a traffic
perspective it is a difficult area to open up driveways and get pedestrian
movement. He said he is inclined to deny the requests until the City determines
what it wants to do with its IP zoning properties.
Commissioner Robertson said he didn’t have a problem with splitting the zoning
on the block. He said he finds it more unusual when zoning is split on a street.
He discussed the economic benefit of industrial vs. retail. He said he couldn’t
vote to remove more industrial land.
Commissioner Johnston-Madison asked Commissioner Morris what kind of
information he hoped to get from the Industrial Study that would help him make a
decision on the applicant’s request.
Commissioner Morris said he feels the City shouldn’t lose any more industrial
properties. It might come to a decision to freeze rezoning of industrial properties,
or provide a certain set of guidelines for considering rezoning.
Commissioner Johnston-Madison asked what kind of industrial use Commissioner
Morris envisioned on this size parcel.
Commissioner Morris responded that there would be the possibility of a
consolidated parcel, instead of four or five different businesses.
Chair Carper commented that currently it is a functional IP property and could be
sold as industrial.
There was a discussion about why staff recommended denial other than traffic
issues.
Official Minutes
Planning Commission
July 20, 2005
Page 7
Ms. McMonigal said primarily when the zoning is changed; there is no control
over what kind of retail use might go in the site. She said her concern was that
some of the uses might not be appropriate in the area, such as communication
tower, sexually oriented businesses, grocery store, or motor fuel station. She
explained that while conditions could be placed on some permitted uses, once the
zoning is changed it is difficult legally to say no to anything which is permitted in
that zoning district.
Commissioner Morris said the concept plan presented by the applicant is for a
drive-through restaurant or drive-through facility. He said it may not be a good
site for a drive-through facility as it would generate a lot of traffic.
Commissioner Morris said he was inclined to give the applicant extra time to
work out some of the issues on the use of land as well as finding out more about
where the Industrial Study may take the City.
Commissioner Robertson said his issue didn’t regard use or traffic, but strictly
that he is not willing to give up the industrial property at this point in time.
Tabling it would give the applicant some time to look into a good use that was
worth losing some industrial property. He said in general he’s not comfortable
with a vaguely defined use.
Commissioner Johnston-Madison suggested tabling the requests to give the
applicant time to complete a traffic study and to determine what type of retail
would be appropriate.
Ms. McMonigal stated that the City requires its traffic engineer to complete the
traffic study, paid by the applicant, based on the uses that the applicant identifies.
She added that the data for the Industrial Study has just been collected.
Additional analysis needs to be done and she doesn’t have a date of completion at
this time.
Mark Johnson, applicant, clarified that they had wanted to buy just a portion of
the City-owned property, not the entire piece.
Mr. Johnson asked if there was any advantage to consider applying for a PUD.
Ms. McMonigal responded that the City’s PUD process does not specify uses.
The underlying zoning district regulates what the uses are. Staff is proposing a
change in the ordinance to make the PUD a little bit stronger in making an
overlay zoning district. Under that scenario uses could be specified for a
particular piece of property. That might be one option for the applicant. She said
it takes 3-4 months to make a change to the zoning code.
Official Minutes
Planning Commission
July 20, 2005
Page 8
Mr. Johnson asked if there was any merit to the applicant agreeing to certain deed
restrictions that would preclude certain uses.
Ms. McMonigal said she would check with the City Attorney.
Mr. Johnson said obtaining some hard traffic data is important. He said they
would like to postpone and continue to gather information and meet with staff.
Commissioner Robertson moved to table the requests until the City and developer
receive the completed traffic study. Commissioner Johnston-Madison seconded
the motion, and the motion was approved on a vote of 5-0.
4. Unfinished Business: None
5. New Business
Commissioner Robertson distributed a cluster development definition from a
textbook as a follow-up to the recent zoning amendment regarding cluster
housing. He said that everyone seems to agree that cluster housing is an
important tool to have, but that its placement in the code did not have give enough
controls. He said the definition was an acknowledgement that a townhome is a
type of cluster home but a cluster home isn’t necessarily a type of townhome.
Commissioner Robertson made a request that staff prepare a text change for the
definition of cluster housing which specifically excludes townhomes and that staff
also prepare a definition for townhomes. This would provide the ability to
reintroduce some detached single houses in a cluster development under a PUD
process or some other tool without including townhomes in the same action.
Commissioner Robertson said the Commission’s recommendation to the City
Council was to redefine those categories. He said he thinks that request still
stands open so he’d like to see an attempt at some redefinition of those two terms.
Commissioner Robertson and Ms. McMonigal discussed the definitions in more
detail. Ms. McMonigal said there had been discussion about a single family
cluster definition. Commissioner Robertson referenced the three examples
which were shown in the presentation, one of which illustrated single family
cluster. He said single family cluster is a valuable tool and currently there is no
way of addressing it.
Commissioner Johnston-Madison said the definition needs to make clear that
cluster home is detached.
Commissioner Robertson suggested that terms could be combined. He said
something like Victoria Ponds could be referred to as cluster duplexes.
Official Minutes
Planning Commission
July 20, 2005
Page 9
Ms. McMonigal talked about proposed changes to the PUD to be an overlay
zoning district and how that could affect townhomes and cluster housing.
Ms. McMonigal said the discussion on changes to the zoning code will continue
at the August 8th City Council study session. The Planning Commission is invited
to attend. She said there will be more discussion about allowing cluster housing
and townhomes in the R3 Zoning District.
Ms. McMonigal said that staff will be coming forward with a number of zoning
code changes over the next several months.
Commissioner Morris asked if staff would be looking at a fall development tour
for the Commission, Council and Housing Authority. Ms. McMonigal thanked
him for the reminder and said that staff will set up a tour.
6. Communications
A. Recent City Council Action – July 18
7. Miscellaneous
Chair Carper thanked Commissioners Robertson and Johnston-Madison for their
participation at the July 11th City Council study session. Chair Carper also
attended the meeting.
8. Adjournment
Commissioner Morris moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:50 p.m. The motion
passed on a vote of 5-0.
Respectfully submitted,
Nancy Sells
Administrative Secretary
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4j - TS No 598 Stop Signs at CLR and Quentin
Page 1
4j. Traffic Study No. 598: Motion to adopt the attached resolution authorizing the
installation of stop signs on Cedar Lake Road at Quentin Avenue
Background: Over the past few years, residents of the Cedarhurst neighborhood have expressed
concern about speeding along Cedar Lake Road and making left turns at the intersection of
Cedar Lake Road and Quentin Avenue. These issues were discussed at the December 13, 2004
study session.
At the study session, staff recommended that the following short-term changes be made to the
intersection of Cedar Lake Road and Quentin Avenue:
Ÿ Install all-way Stop control at the intersection of Quentin Avenue/Cedar Lake Road
Ÿ Install an east-bound left-turn lane on Cedar Lake Road at the intersection of
Quentin/Cedar Lake Road
The east-bound left-turn lane has been installed as per the study session report, and now the stop
signs must be authorized for installation.
Staff recommends adopting the attached resolution authorizing installation of stop signs on
Cedar Lake Road at Quentin Avenue.
Attachments: Resolution
December 13, 2004 Study Session Report
Prepared By: Laura Adler, Engineering Program Coordinator
Reviewed By: Scott A. Brink, City Engineer
Michael P. Rardin, Director of Public Works
Approved By: Tom Harmening, City Manager
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4j - TS No 598 Stop Signs at CLR and Quentin
Page 2
RESOLUTION NO. 05-113
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING INSTALLATION OF STOP SIGNS AT THE
INTERSECTION OF CEDAR LAKE ROAD AND QUENTIN AVENUE SOUTH
TRAFFIC STUDY NO. 598
WHEREAS, the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota has been requested, has studied, and
has determined that traffic controls are necessary at the intersection of Cedar Lake Road and
Quentin Avenue South.
BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota that
the Director of Public Works is hereby authorized to install the following controls:
Ÿ Stop signs on the eastbound and westbound Cedar Lake Road approaches to Quentin
Avenue South.
Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the City Council August 15, 2005
City Manager Mayor
Attest:
City Clerk
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4j - TS No 598 Stop Signs at CLR and Quentin
Page 3
DECEMBER 13 STUDY SESSION REPORT:
Quentin Avenue/Cedar Lake Road/Old Cedar Lake Road Area Traffic Study
Purpose of Discussion: To review the short-term and long-term suggested improvements for
the area east of TH 100 at Quentin Avenue and Cedar Lake Road.
Background: Over the past two years, concern has been expressed by residents of the
Cedarhurst neighborhood regarding speeding along Cedar Lake Road, east of Quentin Avenue,
increased traffic volumes as a result of the expansion of the Jewish Community Center,
extraordinary delay in making left-hand turns at the intersection of Cedar Lake Road & Quentin
Avenue, and the feeling that this same intersection is unsafe. A petition was submitted to the
City requesting installation of Stop signs in the east-bound & west-bound directions at this
intersection.
Of the 324 signatures on the petition, 105 were from St. Louis Park residents. Of these, there
were 74 St. Louis Park addresses. None of the addresses were within 600 feet of the
intersection.
Staff contracted with SRF Consulting Group, Inc. to perform a traffic study of this area (see
attached information/maps). This study built on the data and results compiled in SRF’s recently
completed study for the I-394 Overlay Zoning District Ordinance
Analysis: In order to study the traffic patterns at the intersection of Cedar Lake Road and
Quentin Avenue, it is also necessary to analyze the intersections of Old Cedar Lake Road with
Quentin Avenue and Old Cedar Lake Road with TH 100 frontage road due to their close spacing.
SRF and City staff collected traffic counts, turning movement counts, and measured vehicle
delay. This information was used to determine a level of service (LOS) for each of the
intersections. Results of the analysis show that all intersections currently operate at an
acceptable LOS C or better during both the daytime and evening peak periods except for the
intersection of Quentin Avenue and Old Cedar Lake Road. This intersection has a LOS of D in
the p.m. peak period.
The average delay encountered by south-bound traffic making a left-turn onto Cedar Lake Road
at Quentin Avenue is 35 seconds in the a.m. and 21 seconds in the p.m. period. This is
considered acceptable per engineering standards.
Based upon the most recent information from MnDOT, a crash analysis at the three intersections
was also completed for crashes during the years 2000-2002. The results of this analysis indicate
that the intersections of the frontage road with Old Cedar Lake Road and the intersection of
Quentin with Cedar Lake Road have slightly higher crash rates than average suburban rates for
all of Hennepin County. For example, the average Hennepin County crash rate for an
unsignalized T-intersection is 0.32 crashes per million vehicles. The crash rate for the T-
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4j - TS No 598 Stop Signs at CLR and Quentin
Page 4
intersection of Quentin Avenue and Cedar Lake Road is 0.51 crashes per million vehicles.
According to records, 8 vehicles crashes occurred at this intersection in a 3-year period.
Short-Term Improvements
Although the intersections operate at acceptable LOS, SRF has determined some short-term
improvements that can be considered by the City to improve the overall function and safety of
the area. These are summarized in the table below along with estimated costs. These
improvements are shown in Attachment A.
Scenario Improvements Cost*
A § Install all-way Stop control at the intersection of
Quentin Avenue/Cedar Lake Road
$500
B § Install all-way Stop control at the intersection of
Quentin Avenue/Cedar Lake Road
§ Install an east-bound left-turn lane on Cedar Lake
Road at the intersection of Quentin/Cedar Lake Road
$1,500
C § All improvements listed under B
§ Install a north-bound left-turn lane at the intersection
of Quentin/Old Cedar Lake Road
§ Install a right-turn bay island on the north-bound
approach of the Quentin/Old Cedar Lake Road
intersection & relocate the Stop sign
§ Modify the striping for the south-bound right-turn lane
at Quentin/Old Cedar Lake Road
$15,000
D § All improvements listed under C
§ Widen the west-bound approach of the intersection of
the frontage road/Old Cedar Lake Road; re-stripe as 2
lanes
§ Widen the west end of the concrete island to create a
90-degree T-intersection at the frontage road/Old
Cedar Lake Road
$30,000
*Costs shown are inclusive of all improvements including prior scenarios
Under Scenario A, the LOS at the intersection of Quentin/Cedar Lake Road worsens from C to
D. That is because east-bound traffic delay is significantly increased. Under this scenario, the
severe impact on Cedar Lake Road motorists does not justify the slight benefit to motorists in the
south-bound queue.
Under Scenario B however, which provides a separate left-turn lane for east-bound traffic
turning left onto Quentin, the LOS stays the same as existing conditions but the east-bound
queue is significantly lessened.
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 4j - TS No 598 Stop Signs at CLR and Quentin
Page 5
Although Scenarios C and D do not achieve significant benefits to the queues and delays at the
intersection of Quentin Avenue/Cedar Lake Road, they would improve overall safety and
operations at the other two intersections since motorists’ confusion and sight distance restrictions
play a key role in their operations.
SRF is also recommending that the City assess the current lighting at the intersection of
Quentin/Cedar Lake Road and evaluate the current signing in the entire area and remove
unnecessary or repetitive signage.
Long-Term Improvements
A future traffic operations analysis was conducted for the three intersections based on the
anticipated development identified in the I-394 Overlay Zoning District Ordinance study. Even
with implementation of the short-term improvements listed in Scenario D above, the intersection
of Quentin/Cedar Lake Road will operate at a LOS F in the p.m. peak period.
Two long-term improvement alternatives were identified. These were:
• installation of a traffic signal and realignment of the intersection of Quentin
Avenue/Cedar Lake Road along with installation of a traffic signal at Quentin
Avenue/Old Cedar Lake Road. This alternative is shown in Attachment B.
• Installation of round-abouts at the intersections of Quentin Avenue/Cedar Lake Road and
Quentin Avenue/Old Cedar Lake Road. This alternative is shown in Attachment C.
The estimated cost of the first alternative is $625,000 ($450,000 for traffic signals and $175,000
for roadway work). The estimated cost of the second alterative is $1,000,000 (exclusive of right-
of-way acquisition costs).
With the implementation of either of these two scenarios, LOS at all intersections is expected to
improve to C or better. The Quentin Avenue/Cedar Lake Road intersection will improve to a
LOS B.
Recommendation: Staff would recommend the following:
• Install signage and striping, as described in Scenario B, as soon as feasible (given
weather restraints)
• Program remaining short-term improvements under Scenario D in the Capital
Improvement Program for 2006.
• Program a long-term improvement project for this area in the Capital Improvement
Program to be built in conjunction with the Duke redevelopment and/or redevelopment of
the Westside Volkswagen site.
Attachments: A: Short-Term Improvements Plan (Supplement)
B: Long-Term Improvements Plan-Scenario 1 (Supplement)
C: Long-Term Improvements Plan-Scenario 2 (Supplement)
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 6a - Comcast transfer
Page 1
6a. Proposed Transfer of Cable Television System
Public hearing to discuss issues regarding the proposed transfer of the Cable
Communications Franchise Ordinance and cable system from Time Warner Cable,
Inc. to Comcast Cable Communications, LLC.
Recommended
Action:
Motion to continue the public hearing to September 19, 2005.
Background:
On June 15, 2005, Comcast notified the City about an agreement to purchase all of Time Warner
Cable’s Minnesota cable TV systems, including St. Louis Park’s franchise. Time Warner and
Comcast are purchasing the bankrupt Adelphia cable systems for about $12.7 billion in cash.
Adelphia has about 5 million subscribers, and the systems will be geographically divided
between Comcast and Time Warner so the systems can be clustered together. As part of the
clustering, Time Warner’s Minnesota, Florida and Louisiana franchises would be swapped for
Comcast’s Dallas, Los Angeles and Cleveland area franchises.
One area of uncertainty is that the Time Warner and Comcast agreement is contingent on the
completion of the Adelphia deal. The Adelphia bankruptcy proceedings are expected to be
resolved at the end of this year. Some Minnesota cities have already granted Comcast’s request
for franchise transfers, including Helena, Jackson, Jordan, Lanesboro, Lewisville, Madelia, New
Ulm, Sand Creek and Waverly.
The City has retained Brian Grogan of Moss & Barnett to assist with the franchise transfer
process. A report from Mr. Grogan is expected about September 1 on Comcast’s legal, technical
and financial ability to operate the franchise, the parameters set by federal law.
Comcast and Time Warner Cable are the two largest cable operators in the United States, and
offer similar services, including video, high speed data, and telephone.
Fridley’s Cable TV Coordinator, Brian Strand, conducted an informal survey of Comcast’s city
representatives last week. Generally, the city representatives say:
• They have no problems receiving Franchise Fees or Access Fees, or Performance Bonds.
• All areas have recently been upgraded to fiber and the system is in good working order.
• They receive very few citizen complaints concerning signal quality or service. They receive
standard complaints about prices, channel selection and no competing cable company…
• All have said the customer service has greatly improved over the previous franchisee.
Ramsey Washington Cable Commission’s Executive Director, Tim Finnerty, said “Comcast is
extremely responsive to citizen complaints that I handle, which are almost 100% immediately
resolved by an escalated complaints department.”
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 6a - Comcast transfer
Page 2
Regarding St. Louis Park’s specific franchise, set to expire on August 28, 2005, Comcast’s
Director of Government Relations, Kathi Donnelly-Cohen told the Telecommunications
Advisory Commission on August 4, 2005 that until a new franchise agreement is in effect,
Comcast would meet all terms of the existing franchise after the transfer.
Area of concern:
There is one customer benefit Time Warner offers that probably will not continue if the system is
transferred to Comcast: a choice of high speed data internet service providers (ISP’s). When
America Online purchased Time Warner in 2000, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) required
that customers have a choice of ISP’s, a unique arrangement in the cable television industry. An
FTC press release on December 14, 2000 summarized the issue this way:
"In the broad sense, our concern was that the merger of these two powerful companies
would deny to competitors access to this amazing new broadband technology," said Robert
Pitofsky, Chairman of the FTC. "This order is intended to ensure that this new medium,
characterized by openness, diversity and freedom, will not be closed down as a result of
this merger."
Under the proposed order, the Commission's antitrust concerns would be resolved by: (1)
requiring AOL Time Warner to make available to subscribers at least one non-affiliated
cable broadband ISP service on Time Warner's cable system before AOL itself began
offering service, followed by two other non-affiliated ISPs within 90 days and a
requirement to negotiate in good faith with others after that…
As a result, Time Warner high speed data customers can choose between these ISP’s: Road
Runner, AOL Broadband and EarthLink. Comcast customers do not have a choice of ISP’s.
The Supreme Court has recently ruled that cable companies are not required to offer competitive
ISP’s in the “Brand X” case. As reported in C/net news.com on June 27, 2005:
The cable industry can breathe a sigh of relief, as the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that cable
companies will not have to share their infrastructure with competing Internet service
providers.
In a 6-3 decision, the court overturned a federal court decision that would have forced cable
companies to open up their networks to Internet service providers such as Brand X and
EarthLink. The majority opinion was written by Justice Clarence Thomas. Dissenting justices
were Ruth Bader Ginsberg, Antonin Scalia and David Souter.
The decision likely will not affect consumers immediately, since cable companies have long
been exempt from having to share their networks. But Brand X and its supporters believe that
over the long term, the decision will hamper competition and will ultimately lead to higher
broadband prices.
Traditional “common carrier” telephone companies like Qwest and Verizon must allow
competing ISP’s on their systems. A recent Federal Communications Commission ruling may
remove this requirement within a year, thereby removing the requirement for ISP competition for
both the cable and telephone industry. Cable systems lead in the competition for residential high
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 6a - Comcast transfer
Page 3
speed data customers with 18.7 million customers compared to the telephone companies’ 11.8
million customers (December 31, 2004 figures reported by Pike & Fischer).
The City has no direct authority over the high speed data or telephone services offered by Time
Warner due to Federal Communications Commission rulings or Federal law. However, City
staff has received an email stating the customer’s desire to continue to receive EarthLink after
the system is transferred to Comcast.
Process and Recommendation:
Brian Grogan’s Comcast report and a Time Warner franchise fee review are both expected about
September 1. Staff expects to collect and analyze further information and report back to the
Council on September 19, 2005. Staff recommends Council continue this public hearing to that
date, because after the public hearing is closed, the City must give notice to Comcast within 30
days of closing the public hearing. Also, Council action is required by October 15, 2005 or the
transfer is deemed approved.
Prepared by: Reg Dunlap, Civic TV Coordinator
Through: Clint Pires, Director of Technology and Support Services
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 6b - Time Warner Franchise Renewal
Page 1
6b. Time Warner Cable TV Franchise Renewal Update
Public hearing to discuss the status of the franchise renewal process with Time
Warner Cable, Inc.
Recommended
Action:
Motion to continue the public hearing and extend the term of the
franchise agreement to September 19, 2005.
An alternate motion would be to direct staff to proceed to the
formal franchise renewal process
(Staff will provide a more specific recommendation during the
meeting).
Background:
Council was last updated on the status of the franchise renewal process with a written report for
the July 18, 2005 regular meeting and at its study session on July 25, 2005. The current
franchise agreement with Time Warner expires on August 27. As indicated at both meetings,
recent progress on the 2-year franchise renewal process has been slow. Staff reported there was
finally some major progress made when Time Warner Cable, Inc. did submit to the City a
marked-up version of the existing franchise on Thursday, July 21. This had been an outstanding
request to Time Warner for several weeks.
On Monday, July 25, consultant Brian Grogan and staff verbally reported to Council at a study
session on matters of the transfer of the franchise to Comcast, and franchise renewal with Time
Warner. Staff and Council discussed the current state of the franchise renewal process and
options. Staff indicated that it may be in the best interest of the City and its constituents to
recommend a different, more “formal” approach to negotiations, given the lack of progress to
date. Further, staff indicated the date for initiating such an approach may be as soon as the
August 15, 2005 public hearing on this topic. Staff indicated the actual recommendation would
rest on the amount of progress made between July 25 and preparation of the public hearing
report.
Following the July 25 study session, John McHugh and Counsel Joel Jamnik met and prepared a
City response marked-up version to the Time Warner document, and after staff consultation, sent
the City version (proposal) to Time Warner on Friday, July 29. This allowed time for Time
Warner’s review prior to the August 3, 2005 negotiations session.
City and Time Warner met on Wednesday August 3 and covered several outstanding issues,
including but not limited to local origination, studio facilities, and the production van. Todd
Hartman and David Pinto, Time Warner legal counsels, reviewed the July 29 City version with
City staff and Joel Jamnik, verbally agreeing to some items, indicating to Mr. Jamnik where
Time Warner would submit revisions, and indicating that some items would need further
consideration by Time Warner. Time Warner staff and counsel explained their own scheduling
constraints, indicated they would be working on their proposed response, and do their best to get
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 6b - Time Warner Franchise Renewal
Page 2
their latest version to the City by Wednesday, August 10. City staff indicated it was necessary for
Time Warner to follow-up the August 3 meeting with its revised version in order for significant
progress to be demonstrated to Council.
Current Status:
As of the writing of this report on Thursday, August 11, 2005 at 10:15 a.m. no response, verbal
or written, has been received from Time Warner. Joel Jamnik attempted to contact multiple Time
Warner staff and received no response on both August 10 and August 11. For its part, City staff
committed to following up on local studio options with the School District. That follow-up
occurred, and the attached letter from the School District indicates support for some use of the
High School studio and another alternative City staff and the Pavek Museum of Broadcasting
have been pursuing. City staff believes primary use of a studio at the Pavek Museum in tandem
with secondary use of the Senior High School studio (current use) would successfully address the
studio requirements. The Pavek Museum Board of Directors is planning to consider this concept
at its August 17 meeting. Construction, equipment, and operational costs would also need to be
discussed. Meantime, there is every expectation that the current Time Warner studio will
continue to be available for use until any alternative studio that may be constructed is fully
ready.
Recommendation:
City staff has made significant some progress on the local studio issue as a follow-up to the
August 3 meeting. Time Warner has not submitted any response to the latest marked-up version
of the franchise or communicated with the City since the August 3 meeting. While there is work
to complete by both Time Warner and the City, City staff has no significant progress to report on
written renewal provisions from Time Warner since the August 3 meeting.
Consistent with the July 25 study session, it is staff’s responsibility to present to Council two
options:
1. Council continues the public hearing and extends the term of the franchise agreement to
September 19, 2005, with the hope that Time Warner will be able to make significant
progress on its role in the franchise renewal process.
2. Direct staff to proceed to the formal process for franchise renewal as discussed at the July
25 study session.
Staff will provide a more specific recommendation during the Council meeting based on a
response we might receive from Time Warner prior to the Council meeting.
Staff will be present at the Council meeting to answer questions.
Attachment: School District letter regarding Studio Facilities
Prepared by: John McHugh, Community TV Coordinator
Through: Clint Pires, Director of Technology and Support Services
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 8a - Park Summit Condos
Page 1
8a. Request by SilverCrest Properties for a Major Amendment to a Planned Unit
Development
Location: 3601 Park Center Boulevard
Applicant: SilverCrest Properties
Case No: Case No. 05-33-PUD
Recommended
Action:
Motion to adopt Resolution No. 000, authorizing a Major
Amendment to the Planned Unit Development for the
elimination of age restrictions at the Park Summit
Condominiums and changes to the underground parking
structure.
Zoning Designation: R-C, Multi-Family Residential
Comp. Plan Designation: High Density Residential
PROJECT SUMMARY:
SilverCrest Properties has requested a major amendment to a Planned Unit Development
(PUD) to remove the age restriction clause for the Park Summit Condominiums within
the previously approved final PUD agreement for the Parkshore Campus. The proposal
for the Park Summit Condominiums, part of that final PUD, was first approved by the
City in 2004. SilverCrest has now requested the removal of the age restriction clause;
otherwise, the final PUD will not be changed except to add conditions relating primarily
to parking.
Staff identified two main issues regarding conversion to a non-age restricted building;
parking and traffic. Parking had originally been designed for an age-restricted building.
More parking is needed for a non-age restricted building. As a result, additional parking
is provided in the new plan. Traffic studies were completed under the premise that
persons living in an age-restricted building take fewer trips than persons in a non age-
restricted building. The City’s traffic consultant was asked to re-evaluate the traffic
impact of the proposed project under the new assumption that the building will not be
age-restricted. Both the parking and traffic issues are discussed further below.
Staff completed a review of the new parking scenario and judged that it would be
acceptable under the Zoning Code. Changing traffic conditions were first reconsidered
by a consultant retained by SilverCrest Properties; subsequently, a city-hired consultant
also reviewed the updated traffic information. It was determined that a new
condominium building, even without age restrictions, would slightly reduce the number
of PM peak hour trips to and from the site, in comparison to the existing office building.
The Planning Commission held a public hearing on the proposed Major Amendment at
its July 20, 2005 meeting. No interested parties spoke at the meeting. After voicing its
concerns, the Planning Commission recommended approval of the Major Amendment.
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 8a - Park Summit Condos
Page 2
BACKGROUND:
SilverCrest Properties received approvals for a PUD along Park Center Boulevard just
south of 36th Street West in 2003 and 2004. The proposal was for a three-building
complex marketed specifically towards persons 55 years of age and older. At the present
time, the first two structures have been built and currently serve residents of St. Louis
Park in an age-restricted setting.
SilverCrest Properties now believes that the age restrictions placed on the third building
will make sales difficult, and so is requesting the removal of those age restrictions. Mr.
Mike Gould of SilverCrest Properties has indicated that it is the company’s intent to
continue marketing towards older residents, particularly those older than age 55;
however, it will not be limited to buyers over the age of 55.
The only changes proposed to the originally approved Park Summit condominium
building features are changes to the parking ramp. The building will remain the same
height and have the same number of units. The following table details the proposed
changes:
Development Summary
Site Characteristic Pre-Amendment Post-Amendment
Site Area 83,127 sq. ft. Same
Open Space Provided 23,200 sq. ft. Same
Open Space Required 22,010 sq. ft. Same
Surface Parking 15 spaces Same
Indoor Parking 210 spaces 240 spaces
Total Parking Provided 225 spaces 255 spaces
Total Parking Required 218 spaces 255 spaces
Floors 14 floors Same
Height 145 feet Same
Underground 2 levels Same
Dwelling Units 150 dwelling units Same
Density 78.5 units per acre Same
Density Permitted met by PUD Same
Ground Floor Area 26,000 square feet Same
Floor Area 303,000 Same
Ground Floor Area Ratio 0.31 Same
Floor Area Ratio 3.65 Same
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 8a - Park Summit Condos
Page 3
ISSUES ANALYSIS:
The following is a summary of the major issues reviewed by staff to determine whether
the proposed amendment is appropriate. The Major Amendment to the Planned Unit
Development is required to prevent any adverse impacts to the health, safety or welfare
of the surrounding community. A location map, site plan and a copy of the building
elevations are attached to the report for review.
Issues:
• What concerns arose during the public hearing before the Planning Commission
on July 20, 2005?
• Is the proposed Major Amendment to the Planned Unit Development cohesive
with the Comprehensive Plan and the previously adopted Preliminary PUD plan?
• How will the use of the proposed 14-story condominium building change?
• Will the removal of the age-restrictions affect off-street parking at the site?
• How will the removal of age-restrictions affect the surrounding properties?
• What traffic impacts are associated with the proposed amendment?
Analysis:
What concerns arose during the public hearing before the Planning Commission on
July 20, 2005?
The Planning Commission recommended approval of the amendment to the final PUD,
removing the age-restrictions from the original development plan. No interested parties
spoke during the public hearing. The Planning Commission addressed several concerns,
including the effect of losing senior housing units, the redesign of Park Center Boulevard,
the increase in traffic, the building floor plans and changes to the trail and green space.
The Comprehensive Plan states only that the site should be developed at a high density
for residential purposes, and does not address the type of high density units that should be
placed on the site. In addition, staff explained that the redesign and reconstruction of
Park Center Boulevard is not currently anticipated to occur for several years.
Mr. Gould of SilverCrest properties explained that the building and floor plans may
undergo minor changes from floor to floor, but that no major changes were planned nor
would the number of units change; in addition, he explained that no changes were
proposed to the existing trail and green space available on-site. The only major change is
the removal of the tunnel connecting Park Summit to the buildings to the south.
One result of the Planning Commission’s recommendations is the addition of the
condition that the driveways between the Park Summit condominium building and the
driveway to the two properties to the south be connected, as shown in the original
development plans.
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 8a - Park Summit Condos
Page 4
Is the proposed Major Amendment to the Planned Unit Development consistent
with the Comprehensive Plan and the previously adopted final PUD plan?
Approval of the final PUD plan relied on Chapter P of the Comprehensive Plan, which
specifically addresses the redevelopment the proposed Park Summit Condominium site.
The redevelopment plan for the site includes factors such as density, floor area ratio,
building height, location and appearance, and open space. The current proposal solely
addresses the age-restriction clause in the final PUD plan; it does not affect density, a
primary concern of the guidelines adopted into the Comprehensive Plan.
The density of the project is 78.5 units per acre. During the prior review of the proposed
Park Summit building, this density was permitted because the total site density, including
Park Summit, remains below the goal of 75 units per acre.
How will the use of the proposed 14-story condominium building change?
Few changes in use are anticipated in light of the removal of the age-restriction clause.
The building will remain completely residential with minor services offered on the first
floor.
Age-restricted buildings condominiums may differ slightly from non age-restricted
condominiums. In age-restricted condominiums, fewer trips per day from the building
are expected. For example, in a non age-restricted building, 4.18 trips per day are
expected for each dwelling unit, while in an age-restricted building, only 3.48 trips per
day are expected per dwelling unit. Non age-restricted condominiums may also have
additional trips during peak traffic hours and may attract residents who tend to spend less
time within the building as compared to typical residents of an age-restricted building.
The primary change in the building’s use, therefore, is a question of trips to and from the
building and time spent within the building. Because it is the City’s responsibility to
ensure that any new development remains within the confines of existing transportation
networks, an update was completed to the traffic study completed for the final PUD
approvals. Traffic impacts are discussed below.
Will the removal of the age-restrictions affect off-street parking at the site?
City code allows for reductions in parking for age-restricted buildings. In the case of the
final PUD approved for the Park Summit Senior Cooperative, 218 parking stalls were to
be provided. A reduction of 30% was taken by SilverCrest Properties for the 14-story
Proposal PUD
Reduction
Transit
Reduction
Bicycle
Reduction
Required
Parking
Required After
Reductions
150 Senior
Units
15%
10%
5%
300 spaces
218 spaces
150
Market-
rate Units
15%
0%
0%
300 spaces
255 spaces
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 8a - Park Summit Condos
Page 5
structure, resulting from its proximity to transit, the provision of bicycle parking, and the
use of PUD. The new request allows for a 15% reduction in required off-street parking.
Off-Street Parking Details for Park Summit
As a result of the alteration of the proposed building to non age-restricted, additional
parking is required. The proposal is for 150 dwelling units, which requires 300 spaces
based on the existing Zoning Code. SilverCrest proposes to take a 15% reduction from
the required number of spaces due to its use of PUD, bringing the total required spaces to
255. The plans for the building have been altered to increase the amount of parking in
the underground ramp, bringing the total spaces provided in the two-level underground
structure to 240 spaces.
Staff believes that the parking plans submitted for Park Summit will be sufficient to
handle the number of resident and visitor vehicles on-site at any given time. New
development projects are required to reserve 10% of the total required parking for guest
parking. Consequently, some of the guest parking would need to be accommodated in
the underground ramp. The developer has proposed various methods to enable visitors to
enter the ramp. In addition to that guest parking, the developer has also stated that some
of the above-ground parking at the ParkShore Senior Housing complex will be available
to guests at Park Summit.
How will the removal of age-restrictions affect the surrounding properties?
Impacts to Senior Campus Plan
It is unlikely that the removal of age-restrictions will have negative implications for the
properties surrounding Park Summit. The Park Summit Condominium building will not
be connected through an underground tunnel to the ParkShore Assisted Living building to
the south. A tunnel had been planned between the two buildings to enhance the senior
‘campus’ plan that was a large part of the final PUD. Removing the tunnel from the
building’s plan eliminates any grading problems associated with the trail, which would
have passed over the tunnel.
Impacts to surrounding land uses
The removal of age-restrictions will have few impacts on the Target and Byerly’s stores
across Park Center Boulevard from the development. The primary impact of the
proposed condominium building on both retailers is a result of additional vehicle trips,
which is addressed below.
Impacts to surrounding and transportation corridors
SilverCrest Properties intends, as required by the final PUD, to change the trail
connection running between the Park Summit building and the ParkShore Assisted
Living building. The trail connection will be realigned due to the new building’s
alignment, parking, and lack of an underground tunnel. Building setbacks from the trail
provide sufficient room for access to and from the trail; additionally, it is a continued
requirement that SilverCrest will install appropriate lighting and landscaping along the
trail where it passes by Park Summit Condominiums.
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 8a - Park Summit Condos
Page 6
During the review of the previous PUD proposal by SilverCrest Properties, it was
indicated that the proposed driveway from the site entering onto Park Center Boulevard
will be moved from its present location approximately 80 feet to the south. The alteration
of the driveway location will serve to improve traffic conditions on Park Center
Boulevard.
At some point in the future, the City intends to reconstruct Park Center Boulevard,
creating a new connection to the south. Upon the City’s initiation of construction, it is
expected that the proposed entrance to the Park Summit building will be combined to a
single entrance at the ParkShore Assisted Living building. It is planned that this entrance
could align with the primary entrance to Target directly across Park Center Boulevard.
At the recommendation of the Planning Commission, the connection between the Park
Summit building and the buildings to the south is included as a condition of the
resolution, to be completed at the time of construction. Such a requirement was not
included in the conditions of approval during the first approval process.
What traffic impacts are associated with the proposed amendment?
Traffic impacts were analyzed for the initial proposal during the PUD process in 2003.
At that time, SilverCrest intended for the three-building complex to focus on life cycle
housing for seniors. Trip data indicates that residents of age-restricted buildings often
make fewer trips than residents living in a non age-restricted building. With the requested
change to a non age-restricted building, staff requested an update to the traffic data. The
following table summarizes trip information for 3601 Park Center Boulevard, taken from
the update to the traffic analysis by SRF Consulting Group.
Trip Generation Estimates
Scenario
Land Use
Size Daily
Trips
P.M. Peak Trips (1 hour)
In Out Total
1 Office 36,000 sq. ft 396 15 43 58
2 Senior
Condos
150 Units 522 10 7 17
3 High Rise
Condos
150 Units 627 35 22 57
While overall trips rise as a result of the change from an office building to a high rise
condominium building, it is expected that high rise condo trips would be spread
throughout the day – occurring with slightly less intensity during the peak traffic periods
in the morning and the evening. The change to high rise condos from senior condos
results in approximately 20% more trips per day (627 vs. 522).
The update to the traffic study completed by RLK Consulting on behalf of SilverCrest
Properties and a review of that update completed by SRF Consulting Group on behalf of
the City are attached for review.
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 8a - Park Summit Condos
Page 7
SUMMARY:
Changing the proposed Park Summit condominium building from age-restricted to non-
age restricted will result in an increased number of trips to and from the building each
day. However, it will ultimately result in a very minor reduction in the number of peak
hour trips taken to and from the site and will spread traffic flow to and from the site
evenly throughout the day.
Parking at the site is improved, resulting from the inclusion of additional parking spaces
below ground. Staff does not anticipate problems with off-street parking as a result of the
new plan. It remains likely that residents of the proposed condominium will utilize the
nearby transit, pedestrian, and bicycle facilities.
RECOMMENDATION:
The Planning Commission and staff recommend a motion to adopt Resolution No.
000, authorizing a Major Amendment to the Planned Unit Development for the
elimination of age restrictions at the Park Summit Condominiums.
Attachments:
• Resolution No. XX, a resolution authorizing a Major Amendment to the PUD for
Park Summit Condominiums.
• Draft minutes of the July 20, 2005 Planning Commission meeting
• Review of revisions to the 2003 traffic study, discussing non age-restricted traffic
rates, completed by SRF Consulting (retained by the City of St. Louis Park)
• Revisions to the 2003 traffic study, discussing non age-restricted traffic rates
completed by RLK Consulting
• Location Map
• Development plans
• Resolution No. 04-024, A Resolution Granting Final PUD Approval for a Senior
Housing Condominium at 3601 Park Center Boulevard. (Case 03-38-PUD).
Prepared by: Adam W. Fulton, Associate Planner
Reviewed by: Meg J. McMonigal, Planning and Zoning Supervisor
Approved by: Tom Harmening, City Manager
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 8a - Park Summit Condos
Page 8
RESOLUTION NO. ________
A RESOLUTION AMENDING AND RESTATING
RESOLUTION NOS. 96-153, 96-189, 03-139, AND 04-024,
ADOPTED ON OCTOBER 7, 1996,
DECEMBER 2, 1996, OCTOBER 7, 2003, AND FEBRUARY 2, 2004,
APPROVING A FINAL PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT (PUD)
UNDER SECTION 36-367 OF THE ST. LOUIS PARK ORDINANCE CODE
AND CONSOLIDATING CONDITIONS FROM AN EXISTING SPECIAL
PERMIT AND PUD FOR PROPERTY ZONED R-C, MULTI-FAMILY
RESIDENTIAL
GRANTING FINAL PUD APPROVAL FOR A SENIOR HOUSING
CONDOMINIUM DEVELOPMENT AT 3601 PARK CENTER BOULEVARD
AND
COMBINING PROPOSED AND EXISTING DEVELOPMENT OF THE
PARKSHORE CAMPUS AS A PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT
3601, 3633 AND 3663 PARK CENTER BOULEVARD
MAJOR AMENDMENT TO PUD FOR
ELIMINATION OF AGE RESTRICTIONS AT THE
PARK SUMMIT CONDOMINIUMS
3601 PARK CENTER BOULEVARD
WHEREAS, SilverCrest Properties, LLC has made application to the City
Council for a Major Amendment to a Final Planned Unit Development (Final PUD)
under Section 36-367 of the St. Louis Park Ordinance Code to allow ___________ at
3601 Park Center Boulevard within a R-C, Multi-Family Residential Zoning District
having the following legal description:
Lots 1, 2 and 3, Block 1, Silvercrest Addition
WHEREAS, the City Council has considered information related to Planning
Case No. 05-33-PUD and the effect of the proposed
_______________________________on the health, safety and welfare of the occupants
of the surrounding lands, existing and anticipated traffic conditions, the effect on values
of properties in the surrounding area, the effect of the use on the Comprehensive Plan,
and compliance with the intent of the Zoning Ordinance.
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that the Major Amendment to the
Final PUD will not be detrimental to the health, safety, or general welfare of the
community nor with certain contemplated traffic improvements will it cause serious
traffic congestion or hazards, nor will it seriously depreciate surrounding property values.
The Council has also determined that the proposed amendment to the Final PUD is in
harmony with the general purpose and intent of the Zoning Ordinance and the
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 8a - Park Summit Condos
Page 9
Comprehensive Plan and that the requested modifications comply with the requirements
of Section 36-367(b)(5) and 36-266(16).
WHEREAS, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 86-62 on May 19, 1986
approving a special permit to allow construction of a 207 unit senior citizen apartment
building at 3663 Park Center Boulevard; and
WHEREAS, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 96-153 on October 7, 1996
approving an amendment to the existing special permit for the 207-unit senior apartment
building at 3663 Park Center Boulevard to allow certain site design changes (realignment
of an existing trail and certain concrete curbs; construction of an additional sidewalk
connection; and modifications to the approved landscape plan) in association with
separate PUD approval of a 45 unit assisted living building on a portion of 3601 Park
Center Boulevard (now 3633 Park Center Boulevard); and
WHEREAS, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 96-152 on October 7, 1996
approving the Final PUD for the existing office building, removal of the bank with in-
vehicle service and new 45 unit assisted living building at 3601 Park Center Boulevard
(now also 3633 Park Center Boulevard); and
WHEREAS, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 96-189 on December 2,
1996 rescinding Resolution No. 96-152 approving the Final PUD in order to correct the
legal description and address; and
WHEREAS, the City Council adopted Resolution 99-101 on September 7, 1999
approving an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan to adopt a Redevelopment Plan for
3601, 3633 and 3663 Park Center Boulevard allowing certain modifications to ordinance
requirements and parameters for future redevelopment of the office building at 3601 Park
Center Boulevard; and
WHEREAS, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 99-102 on September 7,
1999 approving the preliminary and final plat for Silvercrest Addition to reconfigure
internal lot lines allowing a 46 unit addition to the assisted living building on Lot 2 for a
total of 91 units and requiring trail easements over Lots 1, 2 and 3 (3601, 3633 and 3663
Park Center Boulevard respectively), a road easement over Lot 3, trail construction over
Lots 1 and 2, a parking agreement between Lots 2 and 3, certain maintenance
agreements, and cooperation with the City regarding future construction of the north-
south roadway and trail on Lot 3; and
WHEREAS, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 2143-99 on September 7,
1999 vacating certain drainage, utility and trail easements at 3601, 1633 and 3663 Park
Center Boulevard effective upon recording new easements; and
WHEREAS, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 99-140 on December 6,
1999 amending and restating the conditions of Resolution No. 99-102 to extend the plat
filing deadline to January 6, 2000; and
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WHEREAS, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 03-138 on October 7, 2003
approving an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan to revise the text of the
Redevelopment Plan to allow density and floor area ratio (FAR) averaging over the 3601,
3633 and 3663 Park Center Boulevard properties, to increase the allowable average floor
area ratio for all three properties, to increase allowable height for future redevelopment of
the 3601 Park Center Boulevard, and to allow a curb cut on the south edge of the 3601
Park Center Boulevard property (until such time as access consolidation could be
achieved), and to adopt an overall Redevelopment Plan for the three properties;
WHEREAS, the City Council adopted Resolution No. 03-139 on October 7, 2003
approving a Preliminary PUD for redevelopment of the 3601 Park Center Boulevard
office building for a 150 unit senior housing condominium building and consolidating
conditions from the PUD for 3601 and 3633 Park Center Boulevard and special permit
for 3663 Park Center Boulevard granting Preliminary PUD approval for proposed and
existing development of the Parkshore Campus at 3601, 3633 and 3663 Park Center
Boulevard; and
WHEREAS, a Final PUD was approved regarding the subject property pursuant
to Resolution No. 04-024 of the St. Louis Park City Council dated February 2, 2004
which contained conditions applicable to said property; and
WHEREAS, due to changed circumstances, amendments to those conditions are
now necessary, requiring the amendment of that Final PUD; and
WHEREAS, it is also the intent of this resolution to continue and restate the
conditions of Resolution Nos. 96-153, 96-189, 03-139, and 04-024 to add the
amendments now required, to reference the required conditions of Resolution No. 99-
140, and thereby to consolidate all conditions applicable to the subject properties into this
resolution, and
WHEREAS, the contents of Planning Case Files 86-20-SP, 96-16-PUD, 96-25-CUP, 99-
14-CP, 99-15-S, 99-16-V, 03-37-CP, 03-38-PUD, and 05-33-PUD are hereby entered into and
made part of the public hearing and the record of decision for this case.
CONCLUSION
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Resolution No. 04-024 (filed as
Document No. 8440134) is hereby restated and amended by this resolution which
continues and amends a Final Planned Unit Development to the subject property for the
purpose of permitting ___________________________________ within the R-C, Multi-
Family Residential Zoning District at the location described above based on the following
conditions:
A. From special permit Res. 96-153 3663 Park Ctr. Blvd. (now also 3633 Park
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Item: 081505 - 8a - Park Summit Condos
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Center Blvd.):
1. That the site be developed, used and maintained in accordance with Exhibit A
- Site Plan; Exhibit B - Ground Floor Plan; Exhibit C - Ground Floor Plan;
Exhibit D - First Floor Plan; Exhibit E - Typical Floor Plan; Exhibit F - West
Elevation and North Elevation; Exhibit G - East Elevation and South
Elevation; and Exhibit H - Landscape Site Plan, (the floor plans are for
general purposes only.) except as amended by conditions C. 1-11 adopted on
February 2, 2004 and as modified by the following conditions:
2. The use of the site shall be for senior citizen housing containing 207 units.
3. That all trash be stored inside the building and there be no outdoor storage of
trash or trash containers.
4. That all lighting be directed perpendicular to the ground and no direct rays
shall extend beyond the property line.
5. That the driveway and private entrance contain concrete, poured-in-place
curbing measuring six inches above and below the adjacent roadway surface.
6. That the upper portions of the ramp in the interior of the parking lot contain
5% landscaping and pedestrian circulation and additional ornamental trees be
provided along the south and east lot lines as shown on the revised plan, and
that up to 20 parking spaces be permitted to be eliminated to provide for the
additional landscaping.
7. That erosion control provisions be employed during the construction phase to
protect Wolfe Lake and to minimize erosion on the site and runoff of erosion
material into other private or public property.
8. That the entrance road be designed and constructed in a manner so as to
protect the City storm sewer system and as specified by the Director of Public
Works.
9. That driveways be constructed at a grade not to exceed 6%.
10. That the link from the cul de sac to the sidewalk be constructed at a grade not
to exceed 5% and that all other walkways be constructed at a grade not to
exceed 4% and curb drops be provided at all intersections with the private and
public roads.
11. That the east-west walkway along the north property line be at least as wide as
the adjacent trail in Wolfe Park to which it is to link with. Said walkway to be
extended by the applicant to the walkway in Wolfe Park and be lighted using
decorative lighting to match the lighting in Wolfe Park.
12. That prior to construction, an easement be provided to the City permitting the
five feet parallel to Park Center Boulevard to be used for pedestrian purposes
and that a pedestrian easement approximately 25 feet wide be provided along
the north property line for pedestrian purposes. (The width is wider to
accommodate the curvilinear nature of the design.)
13. That all improvements including buildings, landscaping, parking, curbing and
other improvements as contained on the improved exhibits be completed by
May 15, 1988; however, if a certificate of full occupancy is received by
September 1, 1987, all landscaping and other improvements must be
completed by October 15, 1987.
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Item: 081505 - 8a - Park Summit Condos
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14. The continued special permit shall be amended pursuant to Planning Case No.
96-25-CUP to permit realignment of an existing trail and certain concrete
curbs; construction of an additional sidewalk connection; and modifications to
the approved landscape plan to allow construction of a 45 unit Assisted Living
facility on 3633 Park Center Boulevard subject to the following conditions:
a) The northern portion of the site shall be developed, used and maintained
in accordance with Exhibit I: Demolition Plan, Exhibit J: Site Plan,
Exhibit K: Grading, Drainage and Erosion Control Plan, Exhibit L:
Landscape Plan such documents incorporated by reference herein.
b) Prior to issuance of an erosion control permit and commencement of site
work, a 14 feet wide trail easement shall be dedicated to the City in a
form acceptable to the Director of Park and Recreation and the City
Attorney.
c) Prior to issuance of utility permits, details of the proposed storm sewer
connection shall be approved by the City Engineer.
d) Prior to issuance of an Occupancy Permit for the adjacent Assisted
Living facility, the trail realignment shall be completed by the applicant
in accordance with City specifications and in a manner acceptable to the
Director of Park and Recreation, unless a letter of credit in an amount
equal to 125% of the cost of said trail construction has been submitted in
a form acceptable to the City Attorney.
15. Assent form and official exhibits must be signed by applicant prior to issuance
of erosion control permit and commencement of site work.
B. From Res. 96-189 final PUD for 3601 Park Center Blvd. (now also 3633 Park
Center Blvd.):
1. The site shall be developed, used and maintained in accordance with Exhibit
A: Demolition Plan, Exhibit B: Site Plan, Exhibit C: Grading, Drainage and
Erosion Control Plan, Exhibit D: Landscape Plan, Exhibits E and F:
Elevations, Exhibit G: Fence, Enclosure Designs, except as amended by
conditions C. 1-11 adopted on February 2, 2004, and the following conditions:
a) Approval of the Final PUD does not grant any concept approval for
future phases of development involving this property.
b) Approval of the Final PUD is contingent upon City Council approval of
an amendment to the Continued Special Permit for the Parkshore Place
apartment property to address associated improvements involving that
property; approval of the Final PUD is further contingent upon adherence
by the applicant to any conditions of such Special Permit approval.
c) Approval of the Final PUD includes modification of the lot width
requirement in the "R-C" District from 80 feet to 40 feet and allows for
administrative approval of a subdivision to create a separate lot for the
Assisted Living property (3633 Park Center Boulevard) as shown on
Exhibit B.
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d) Approval of the Final PUD is contingent upon termination of the drive
thru bank lease, once the current term expires, and removal of the drive
thru building.
e) Evidence of Watershed District approval shall be submitted prior to
issuance of erosion control and building permits; the project shall comply
with other City, State, and Federal agency requirements as applicable.
f) Final Utility Plans and evidence of property owner consent to sanitary
sewer connections shall be submitted and approved by the City Engineer
prior to issuance of utility and building permits.
g) Samples of final building materials and colors and potential minor
changes to the exhibits, as needed, shall be submitted and approved by
the Director of Community Development prior to issuance of buildings
permits. Use of vinyl siding is expressly prohibited.
h) A development agreement between the applicant and EDA shall be
executed prior to issuance of building permits.
i) Irrigation and Site Lighting Plans (including photometric) shall be
approved by the Zoning Administrator prior to issuance of building
permits.
j) Sprinkler and Fire Alarm Plans shall be approved by the Fire Marshall
prior to issuance of building permits.
k) Joint parking and access agreements between the office/bank property,
Assisted Living Property, and Parkshore Place apartment property, in a
form acceptable to the City Attorney, shall be executed prior to issuance
of an Occupancy Permit for the Assisted Living facility.
l) All improvements shall be completed in a manner acceptable to the City
prior to issuance of an Occupancy Permit, except that a temporary
Occupancy Permit may be issued prior to completion of landscaping
improvements provided a letter of credit in an amount equal to 125% of
the cost of said improvements is submitted in a form acceptable to the
City Attorney.
C. The Planned Unit Development shall be amended on February 2, 2004 to
incorporate all of the preceding conditions and to grant Final PUD approval for a 150 unit
senior condominium development (“Park Summit Condominiums”) at 3601 Park Center
Boulevard and consolidation of access and related improvements at 3633 and 3663 Park
Center Boulevard subject to the following conditions:
1. The site shall be developed, used and maintained in conformance with the
Final PUD official exhibits, which shall include the revised Parking Structure
plan sheet stamped as Received by the City December 22, 2003 and the
Proposed Access and Internal Circulation Plan stamped as Received by the
City December 30, 2003. The Proposed Access and Internal Circulation Plan
may be revised based upon more detailed future roadway design work. The
Official Exhibits shall also include the revised Description Sketch survey
showing existing trail and roadway easements stamped as Received by the
City January 16, 2004, and the revised Dimensional Site Plan stamped as
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 8a - Park Summit Condos
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Received by the City on January 16, 2004. The Proposed Alternate Entrance
on the Dimensional Site Plan is not approved.
2. Prior to any site work, including demolition, the developer shall meet the
following requirements:
a) Development and maintenance agreement(s) shall be executed between
the developer and the City. The agreement(s) shall include, but not be
limited to, conditions for the developer meeting the following
requirements:
i) Construction vehicles shall access the site from Hwy. 100, 36th
Street, and Park Center Blvd. utilizing the interim curb cut as a left-
in, right-out only. Construction vehicles shall not be permitted on
Park Center Blvd. south of the senior condominium property.
ii) Public sidewalk and trail construction.
iii) Repair and cleaning of public streets.
iv) Tree replacement.
v) Constructing a consolidated driveway access to all three properties
as shown conceptually on the Proposed Access and Internal
Circulation Plan (dated December 30, 2003) of the Official Exhibits.
vi) Cost sharing for the road improvements to Park Center Boulevard
and the possible traffic signal at the consolidated access driveway.
vii) On-going responsibility for maintaining the strip of park land
located east of the condominium and west of the park access drive
off of 36th Street.
viii) Adherence to the parking management plan and requirements to
convert the proof-of-parking spaces if directed by the City in
response to on- or off-site parking problems.
ix) Agreement to pay the equivalent of special service district fees
previously paid by the office development for the 3601 Park Center
Blvd. property.
x) Adherence to required conditions in the homeowner’s association
declaration documents.
b) Submit financial security in the form of cash escrow or letter of credit in
the amount of 125% of the costs of public sidewalk and trail installation,
repair/cleaning of public streets/utilities, and tree
replacement/landscaping.
c) Required tree protection, erosion control fencing, trail closed signs, and
safety fencing shall be in place and approved by the City prior to any
grading and demolition activities.
d) The homeowners association documents shall be as approved by the City
Attorney and shall prohibit the rental or sale of guest parking spaces and
the sale or rental of any parking spaces to non-residents. The
homeowners association documents shall also address continued
payment of Special Service District fees equivalent to fees previously
paid by the office development at 3601 Park Center Blvd.
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Item: 081505 - 8a - Park Summit Condos
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e) Record all cross-easement agreements for utilities and drainage for the
three lots within the PUD and record any required changes to the joint
parking and access agreements, maintenance agreement, and trail
easement.
f) Reimburse the City for City attorney’s fees in drafting/reviewing such
documents.
g) Obtain demolition, work in the right of way and erosion control permits,
Watershed District permit and other necessary permits from the City and
other agencies.
h) Sign Assent Form and Official Exhibits.
i) Meet City and Public Works Department requirements for utility
connections and disconnects, including pavement restoration, protection
of sidewalk, trail, lighting and streetscape elements and replacement of
any damaged elements,
j) Meet solar shading requirements or obtain approval of a variance.
k) Meet any other conditions of the development agreement required prior
to site work.
3. Prior to issuance of any building permits, which may impose additional
requirements, the developer shall comply with the following:
a) Meet any Fire Department emergency access requirements during
construction.
b) Building materials samples to be submitted to and approved by the City.
c) Lighting plans, including photometrics to be submitted to and approved
by the City for the entire development. Lighting design is to be
compatible throughout the development, and shall meet all City
standards.
d) Meet any other conditions as required by the Development Agreement
prior to building permit.
4. The developer shall comply with the following conditions during
construction:
a) All City noise ordinances shall be complied with, including that there be
no construction activity between the hours of 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. on
weekdays and 10 p.m. and 9 a.m. on weekends and holidays.
b) Loud equipment shall be kept as far as possible from residences at all
times.
c) The site shall be kept free of dust and debris that could blow onto
neighboring properties including the City aquatic facility.
d) Public streets shall be maintained free of dirt and shall be cleaned as
necessary.
e) Construction vehicles are prohibited from entering the site from park
land property.
f) The Zoning Administrator may impose additional conditions if it
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Item: 081505 - 8a - Park Summit Condos
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becomes necessary in order to mitigate the impact of construction on
surrounding properties.
g) A left-in, right-out temporary construction entrance is allowed on the
3601 Park Center Blvd. property (Lot 1) in accordance with the approved
grading plan and Condition C.2.a) i) of this resolution.
5. A PUD modification to allow a sign setback of 15 feet is approved subject to
approval of a sign permit. Sign permits are required prior to installation of
any temporary or permanent signs and shall include designation of guest
parking spaces.
6. The developer shall comply with the following conditions prior to occupancy
of the senior condominium building:
a) All permanent site and building improvements shall be complete, other
than landscaping, and a letter of credit for 125% of the cost of
landscaping shall be submitted.
b) Submit as-built plans to the City in electronic or Mylar format for all
civil infrastructure.
c) Meet any other conditions as required by the development agreement
prior to occupancy.
d) If reasonably possible, complete improvements in Condition 7.
Otherwise, make the temporary construction access "permanent" until
such time as the consolidated access is completed.
7. The developer agrees to close the driveway access on the 3601 Park Center
Blvd property (Lot 1), repair the right-of-way, and construct the consolidated
PUD access, at developer's or property owners' expense, at the time of
reconstruction of Park Center Blvd. adjacent to the PUD site.
8. The developer or property owners agree to pay a fair share of any future
traffic signal at the consolidated PUD access.
9. The developer or property owners agree to continue paying the equivalent of
special service district fees previously paid by the office development at 3601
Park Center Blvd.
10. The developer or property owners agree to comply with the conditions of
Resolution 99-102, including but not limited to cooperation with the City
regarding future construction of the north-south roadway and additional trail
construction on the 3663 Park Center Blvd. property (Lot 3).
11. The developer or property owner(s) shall pay an administrative fine of $750
per violation of any condition of this approval.
D. The Planned Unit Development shall be amended on August 15, 2005 to incorporate
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 8a - Park Summit Condos
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all of the preceding conditions and add the following conditions:
1. No age restrictions shall be placed on future residents at the Park Summit
Condominiums, to be located at 3601 Park Center Boulevard.
2. At the time of the construction of the Park Summit Condominiums, the
developer shall construct the consolidated PUD access to the site, including all
internal circulation patterns required as part of the original PUD.
3. The developer shall be allowed to maintain the separate entrance to 3601 Park
Center Boulevard until such time as the City reconstructs Park Center
Boulevard.
4. The developer shall provide a minimum of 255 parking spaces for the 150-unit
condominium building at 3601 Park Center Boulevard. A minimum of 240 of
those spaces shall be provided underground.
In addition to any other remedies, the developer or owner shall pay an administrative fee
of $750 per violation of any condition of this approval.
Assent form and official exhibits must be signed by applicant (or applicant and owner if
applicant is different from owner) prior to issuance of building permit.
Approval of a Building Permit, which may impose additional requirements.
Adopted by the City Council August 15,
2005
___________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
City Clerk
Reviewed for Administration:
St. Louis Park City Council Meeting
Item: 081505 - 8a - Park Summit Condos
Page 18
_______________________________
City Manager