HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023/01/17 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - City Council - Regular
AGENDA
JAN. 17, 2023
The St. Louis Park City Council is meeting in person at St. Louis Park City Hall, 5005 Minnetonka Blvd.
Members of the public can attend the meeting in person, watch by webstream at bit.ly/watchslpcouncil,
or watch on local cable (Comcast SD channel 17/HD channel 859).
You can provide comment on agenda items in person at the council meeting or by emailing your
comments to info@stlouisparkmn.gov by noon the day of the meeting. Comments must be related to an
item on the meeting agenda. Comments will be shared with the city council by providing copies for their
review at the meeting.
Recordings are available to watch on the city’s YouTube channel at
https://www.youtube.com/user/slpcable, usually within 24 hours of the end of the council meeting or
study session.
6:20 p.m. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY – council chambers
1. Roll call
2. Approval of EDA agenda
3. Approval of agenda and items on EDA consent calendar
a. Adopt EDA Resolution approving the Advance commercial business assistance program.
b. Adopt EDA Resolution approving the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy.
c. Adopt EDA Resolution approving the Memorandum of Understanding with Partnership in
Prosperity Commercial Land Trust (PIPCLT) for 4300 36th ½ Street West.
4. Approval of EDA minutes – None
5. Unfinished business – None
6. New business – None
7. Communications – None
6:30 p.m. CITY COUNCIL MEETING – council chambers
1. Call to order
a. Roll call
b. Pledge of Allegiance
2. Approve agenda
3. Presentations
a. Retirement recognition for Nancy Weiman-Schmelzle.
b. Recognition of donations.
4. Minutes – None
Meeting of Jan. 17, 2023
City council agenda
5. Consent items
a. Adopt Resolution authorizing parking restrictions on 35th Street West of Raleigh Avenue.
b. Adopt Resolution authorizing the installation of loading zones on the north and south side of
31st Street between Glenhurst and Inglewood avenues.
c. Adopt Resolution approving the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy.
d. Approve the amended inclusionary housing policy to modify the for-sale property
requirements, increase the affordability period to 26 years, add flexibility around the
development mix for senior housing developments, and provide additional clarity in the
policy.
e. Recognizing culturally significant days through corresponding proclamations.
f. Adopt Resolution to recognize Community EMT Nancy Weiman-Schmelzle for more than 26
years of service.
g. Adopt Resolution accepting donations to the fire department from Park Coin for fire
prevention programs and equipment.
h. Approve replacement of 2006 Caterpillar wheel loader, model 938M.
i. Approve temporary on-sale intoxicating liquor license for Beth El Synagogue.
6. Public hearings
a. Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue Improvement projects (4023-1100, 4024-1100)
Recommended action: Mayor to open public hearing, take public testimony, and close public
hearing. Council will be asked to consider the policy questions at its Feb. 6, 2023 meeting.
7. Regular business
a. Adopt Resolution accepting the project report, establishing the 2023 Pavement Management
Project (4023-1000), approving plans and specifications, and authorizing advertisement for bids.
8. Communications and announcements – None
9. Adjournment
**NOTE: Consent items of business are considered to be routine and/or which need no discussion.
Consent items are acted upon by one motion. If discussion or separate vote is desired by either a
council member or a member of the public, that item may be moved to an appropriate section of
the agenda under regular business.
St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority and regular city council meetings are carried live on civic TV cable
channel 17 and replays are frequent; check www.parktv.org for the schedule. The meetings are also streamed live
on the internet at www.parktv.org, and saved for video on demand replays. The agenda and full packet are available
after noon on Friday on the city’s website.
If you need special accommodations or have questions about the meeting, please call 952.924.2505.
Meeting: Economic development authority
Meeting date: January 17, 2023
Consent agenda item: 3a
Executive summary
Title: Proposed Advance commercial business assistance program
Recommended action: Motion to adopt Resolution approving the Advance commercial
business assistance program.
Policy consideration: Does the EDA approve the creation of a new commercial business
assistance program called Advance to foster the establishment or expansion of small
enterprises in vacant commercial spaces within the St. Louis Park?
Summary: As noted in the business programs update staff report presented at the November
28, 2022 study session, staff has developed a new commercial business assistance program,
called Advance. The program’s purpose is to accelerate the development and growth of small
commercial enterprises as well as fill vacant storefronts within St. Louis Park. The Advance
program is designed to fill several gaps in the city’s current small business assistance offerings
and is aimed to:
• encourage entrepreneurs to transition from a concept or home-based business to
opening a bricks and mortar location.
• incent investment in certain hard-to-fill commercial spaces in St. Louis Park to help them
become viable again.
• assist current small businesses expand into a larger vacant commercial space.
• provide down payment assistance to businesses acquiring their first commercial
properties.
The program’s objectives are to help advance prospective entrepreneurs’ business aspirations,
improve the odds of businesses successfully opening or expanding in St. Louis Park, activate
challenging commercial properties and provide an opportunity for wealth building while
simultaneously diversifying and strengthening the city’s economic fabric.
The program would provide qualified small businesses (those with one to 20 employees and up
to $1 million dollars in annual gross revenue) with forgivable loans of up to $10,000 to be used
for interior and exterior commercial building improvements, equipment or repairs, tenant
improvements or first-time commercial property acquisitions. Loan funds would require a
minimum of 1:1 match of applicant incurred eligible expenses. Women, BIPOC/AAPI, and
veteran-owned commercial businesses that meet the program’s size criteria would be
especially encouraged to apply.
Financial or budget considerations: $200,000 has been allocated for this new initiative (enough
for 20 loans) within the 2023 Development Fund budget. The EDA could choose to renew or
discontinue the new program after a two-year review.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a broad range of
housing and neighborhood oriented development.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Prepared by: Greg Hunt, economic development manager
Reviewed by: Karen Barton, community development director, EDA executive director
Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager
Economic development authority meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 3a) Page 2
Title: Proposed Advance commercial business assistance program
Discussion
Background
Thriving commercial main streets provide important goods and services, create a sense of
place, and help make communities desirable and productive. Locally owned small businesses
are powerful engines for invigorating and growing communities. They often provide niche
product and service offerings, create opportunities for personal and family wealth building as
well as further diversify the local economy making it stronger and more vibrant. Additionally,
these enterprises provide community role models and leaders as well as produce considerable
tax revenue, provide jobs, and serve as hubs of community activity. Some small business
owners, however, have faced historic and institutional disadvantages when starting or
expanding their enterprises as well as acquiring property. Still others are seeking the right
incentive to move out of their homes and into a brick-and-mortar commercial space.
Furthermore, there are some small commercial spaces in St. Louis Park that, for a variety of
reasons, have been challenging to fill and, with a bit of investment, could become viable again.
Present considerations
As noted in the business programs update staff report presented at the November 28, 2022
study session, staff has developed a new commercial business assistance program, called
Advance. The program’s purpose is to accelerate the development and growth of small
commercial enterprises and fill vacant storefronts within St. Louis Park. The Advance program is
designed to fill several gaps in the city’s current small business assistance offerings and is aimed
to:
• encourage entrepreneurs to transition from a concept or home-based business to
opening a bricks and mortar location.
• incent investment in certain hard-to-fill commercial spaces in St. Louis Park to help them
become viable again.
• assist current small businesses expand into a larger vacant commercial space.
• provide down payment assistance to businesses acquiring their first commercial
properties.
The program’s objectives are to help advance prospective entrepreneurs’ business aspirations,
improve the odds of businesses successfully opening or expanding in St. Louis Park, activate
challenging commercial properties, help redevelop and improve such properties, create new
jobs by helping small businesses grow, and provide an opportunity for wealth building while
simultaneously diversifying and strengthening the city’s economic fabric.
The program would provide qualified small businesses (those with one to 20 employees and up
to $1 million dollars in annual revenue) with forgivable loans of up to $10,000 to be used for
interior and exterior commercial building improvements, equipment or repairs, tenant
improvements or first-time commercial property acquisitions. Loan funds would require a
minimum of 1:1 match of applicant incurred eligible expenses. Women, BIPOC/AAPI, and
veteran-owned commercial businesses that meet the program’s size criteria would be
especially encouraged to apply.
Program description
The Advance program would provide forgivable loans to eligible small businesses opening new
locations or expanding into larger vacant commercial spaces within St. Louis Park. The program
Economic development authority meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 3a) Page 3
Title: Proposed Advance commercial business assistance program
would also provide down payment assistance to businesses acquiring their first commercial
properties. The loans are to assist these businesses with hard costs related to opening a new
location, expanding into a larger space, or acquiring a commercial property for the first time.
Funding
• Eligible businesses may apply for a forgivable loan of up to a maximum of $10,000.
• Loan funds must be matched at a minimum of 1:1 with applicant incurred eligible
expenses. For example, to be eligible for the maximum loan of $10,000, the applicant
must provide evidence of having paid at least $20,000 in expenses for eligible program
uses.
• Assistance would be provided in the form of a forgivable loan to applicants.
Disbursement of funds would be tied to specific eligible uses of funds, specific agreed
upon outcomes, and other terms outlined in the loan agreement.
• Projects must be completed by December 31, 2024.
Interest rate and loan term
Loans to eligible businesses would be provided at 0% interest over a one-year term.
Loan forgiveness
Loans to eligible businesses would be forgiven after the business remained in its new location in
the city for an entire year, is in good standing with rent or mortgage payments and property
taxes, and provides a report and evidence to the loan program administrator of how loan funds
were utilized (see Reporting fund usage).
Eligible recipients
New or existing St. Louis Park small businesses meeting the requirements of this program that
lease a new, vacant commercial space or acquire a commercial property for the first time in St.
Louis Park as of January 17, 2023.
Established business
Businesses must have one of the following: articles of incorporation for corporations, S Corps
and C Corps, articles of organization for LLCs; sole proprietorship formation; fictitious name
statement or DBA registration; Employer Identification Number (EIN) certificate; city, state, or
federal license to do business; or relevant professional license. Businesses must be in good
standing with the Minnesota Secretary of State. Businesses must also have a business bank
account.
Located in St. Louis Park
Businesses must have a physical business address within St. Louis Park. Applicants must provide
a copy of a fully executed lease or purchase agreement clearly indicating the subject premises
are located within the city.
Business owners must certify that the business has not or will not vacate a commercial space of
similar size in St. Louis Park to become eligible to claim this loan. The new leased space should
be larger than the previously leased space. Exceptions will be considered on a case-by-case
basis under proven extenuating circumstances.
Economic development authority meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 3a) Page 4
Title: Proposed Advance commercial business assistance program
Employ between 1 - 20 employees
Businesses must employ no more than one to 20 full-time equivalent employees (FTE). Sole
proprietors are eligible to apply.
$1 million or less in annual gross revenue
Businesses must make no more than $1 million in annual gross revenue.
Be in good standing with the city
Businesses must:
• Be a conforming or legally nonconforming use under the current zoning regulations of
the city.
• Must comply with all state and local laws and regulations pertaining to licensing,
building codes, zoning, and environmental requirements.
• The applicant must not have delinquent taxes, bills, fines, or other charges due to the
city.
• The applicant must be in good standing with rent or mortgage payments.
Ineligible businesses
Assistance cannot be provided to the following businesses:
• Those that do not have a physical business address within the City of St. Louis Park.
• Those that are renewing an existing lease, subleasing a space, or will be vacating an
existing commercial space to move to another of similar size.
• Firearms sellers, merchants, retailers, or wholesalers; ammunition sales; gun clubs; or
shooting ranges.
• Sexually oriented businesses (strip clubs, escort services, adult bookstores, and
businesses whose principal business is the sale or rental of pornography).
• Tobacco stores, smoke shops, cigarette & cigar retailers and wholesalers, vapor shops,
as well as smoking lounges/clubs and cannabis-related businesses not authorized by
state statute.
• Lending businesses; payday lenders, title lenders.
• Check cashers, bail bonds, or pawn shops.
• Home-based businesses (unless migrating to a physical commercial address).
• Those that are part of a national or regional chain, unless the business is an
independently owned and operated franchise.
• Warehouses or dead storage.
• Those engaged in any illegal activity under federal, state, or local law.
Eligible uses
Eligible uses of the loan funds include the following activities:
• Building/leasehold improvements.
• Commercial building alteration, renovation, or expansion construction costs.
• Lighting, window, and door improvements.
• Roofing, plumbing, electrical and sprinkler system repair or replacement.
Economic development authority meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 3a) Page 5
Title: Proposed Advance commercial business assistance program
• HVAC system repair or replacement.
• Water heater/softener repair or replacement.
• Exterior facade improvements including disabled-accessible improvements.
• Building identification/signage (must be permitted).
• First time commercial property acquisition.
Ineligible uses
• Any work started prior to execution of loan agreement.
• Operating expenses (such as utilities, payroll, rent, insurance, inventory, supplies,
licensing, legal and financial consulting fees, subscriptions, etc.).
• Any work on a building being repaired on a speculative basis where the property owner
is not, or does not plan to be, a primary occupant and/or no tenant has been secured.
• Activities that place extraordinary demands on city services.
• Activities that are inconsistent with St. Louis Park Vision 3.0 and the city’s strategic
priorities, including those considered to create environmental concerns in the opinion of
the local, state, or federal governments due to the type of operation or processes
involved in the business operation.
• Activities that continue and/or expand nonconforming uses.
• Property taxes.
• Business owner’s/manager’s personal uses or expenses.
• Any activity deemed illegal by federal, state, or local law or ordinance.
Loan agreement
After an applicant has been determined eligible to receive funds, the applicant will enter into a
loan agreement with the EDA and deliver a promissory note to the EDA. Loan funds will not be
disbursed until a loan agreement and a promissory note have been executed by all required
parties.
Disbursement and use of funds
Funds will be distributed within approximately two weeks after a fully executed loan agreement
has been received and the applicant has submitted all required documentation. Any required
building and construction permits must be obtained prior to performing work. All loan funds
must be used within six months of the date the loan agreement was fully executed.
Reporting fund usage
Eligible businesses receiving loan funds must commit to using the funds for eligible program
expenses and must agree to document and report specific uses of the funds. Accordingly, all
loan recipients are required to submit a brief report to the EDA after a year of receiving loan
funds, specifying how the loan funds were used and providing evidence in the form of paid
invoices, statements or similar documentation.
If the loan is awarded, the applicant must keep all records related to the loan for 6 years after
the disbursement of the loan. If needed, the applicant must allow the EDA, the City, the State
Auditor, or any of their authorized representatives (which may include other independent
financial analysts) access to documentation related to the loan.
Economic development authority meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 3a) Page 6
Title: Proposed Advance commercial business assistance program
Funding availability
A total of $200,000 is proposed to be allocated to this program. Loans will be provided until
program funding is exhausted on a first-come first served basis. The EDA reserves the right to
approve or reject applications on a case-by-case basis, taking consideration factors considered
appropriate by the EDA, in addition to established polices, criteria, and potential benefits.
Meeting the criteria does not guarantee an application will be approved. Approval or denial of
an application is at the sole discretion of the EDA.
Marketing
Information about the Advance program will be distributed to eligible local businesses. Women,
BIPOC/AAPI, and veteran-owned commercial businesses will be especially targeted and
encouraged to apply. Notifications will also be sent via postcards, email, the city’s website,
social media outlets and noted in other city publications. Staff will also share program details
with other city partner organizations such as SLP Business Council, Hennepin County, the
Minneapolis Regional Chamber, Central MN Development Corporation (CMDC), Metropolitan
Consortium of Community Developers (MCCD), Meda, Women Ventures, and others.
Next steps
Upon approval, city staff will implement the program in the coming weeks and take the above
measures to inform local businesses of its availability.
Economic development authority meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 3a) Page 7
Title: Proposed Advance commercial business assistance program
EDA Resolution No. 23-____
Resolution approving Advance, the City of St. Louis Park’s
commercial business assistance program
Whereas, the St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority (the “Authority”) was
created pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Sections 469.090 through 469.1081, as amended, and
was authorized to transact business and exercise its powers by a resolution adopted by the City
Council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota (the “City”); and
Whereas, the Authority and the City have undertaken a program to promote economic
development and job opportunities, and promote the development and redevelopment of land
which is underutilized within the City; and
Whereas, the Authority acknowledges that thriving commercial streets provide
important goods and services, create a sense of place, increase job opportunities in the City,
and help make communities desirable and productive and that small businesses often provide
niche product and service offerings, create opportunities for personal and family wealth
building as well as further diversify the local economy making it stronger and more vibrant; and
Whereas, there are some commercial spaces in the City that, for a variety of reasons,
have been challenging to fill and are vacant and underutilized or require rehabilitation to serve
as viable locations for small businesses; and
Whereas, the Authority proposes to establish Advance, a commercial business assistance
forgivable loan program (the “Program”) intended to advance prospective entrepreneurs’
business aspirations, create job opportunities in the City, improve the odds of small businesses
successfully opening or expanding in the City, activate challenging commercial properties, help
redevelop and improve existing commercial spaces in the City, and provide an opportunity for
wealth building while simultaneously diversifying and strengthening the City’s economic fabric,
and has prepared the Advance Program Guidelines (the “Guidelines”) and an Advance Program
Application (the “Application”); and
Whereas, in connection with the Program, the Authority has prepared a model Loan
Agreement and Promissory Note (the “Loan Documents”) to be executed in connection with
the provision of each loan provided under the Program.
Now therefore be it resolved by the Board of Commissioners (the “Board”) of the
Authority that the Program and the Guidelines are hereby approved and the Board finds,
determines and declares that it is in the public interest of the residents and businesses of the
City that the Program be adopted.
It is further resolved by the Board that any related documents necessary in connection
with the Program, the Application and the Guidelines, including without limitation the Loan
Documents and all other documents or certifications referenced in or attached to the
Guidelines and the Application (collectively, the “Program Documents”) are hereby approved
Economic development authority meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 3a) Page 8
Title: Proposed Advance commercial business assistance program
and the Executive Director of the Authority is hereby authorized to execute the Program
Documents on behalf of the Authority, and to carry out, on behalf of the Authority, the
Authority’s obligations thereunder when all conditions precedent thereto have been satisfied.
The Board hereby delegates to the Executive Director the authority to administer the Program
in accordance with the Guidelines including without limitation processing and approving
Program applications and executing Program Documents pursuant to the Guidelines and the
Application.
It is further resolved that the Board authorizes the expenditure of available Authority
general fund dollars for the implementation of the Program in the amount of up to $200,000.
It is further resolved that the approval hereby given to the Program Documents
includes approval of such additional details therein as may be necessary and appropriate and
such modifications thereof, deletions therefrom and additions thereto as may be necessary and
appropriate and approved by legal counsel to the Authority and by the Executive Director of the
Authority prior to their execution; and said Executive Director is hereby authorized to approve
said changes on behalf of the Authority. The execution of any instrument by the appropriate
officers of the Authority herein authorized shall be conclusive evidence of the approval of such
document in accordance with the terms hereof. In the event of absence or disability of the
Executive Director of the Authority, any of the documents authorized by this Resolution to be
executed may be executed without further act or authorization of the Board by any duly
designated acting official, or by such other officer or officers of the Board as, in the opinion of
legal counsel to the Authority, may act on the Executive Director’s behalf.
It is further resolved by the Board that the Executive Director and Authority staff are
hereby authorized and directed to undertake and implement the Program and Program
Documents as provided therein and take all actions necessary in connection therewith.
It is further resolved that this resolution shall be effective upon approval.
Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the Economic Development
Authority January 17, 2023
Karen Barton, executive director Nadia Mohamed, president
Attest:
Melissa Kennedy, secretary
Meeting: Economic development authority
Meeting date: January 17, 2023
Consent agenda item: 3b
Executive summary
Title: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy
Recommended action: Motion to adopt EDA Resolution approving the Diversity, Equity, and
Inclusion Policy.
Policy consideration: Does the EDA approve the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy?
Summary: The city recognizes the importance of creating opportunities for women, black
people, indigenous people, people of color (BIPOC), and Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders
(AAPI) to participate more equitably in the workforce and benefit from wealth building
opportunities. It is recognized that historical and institutional discrimination and racism has
disproportionately created challenges for women and BIPOC/AAPI communities. Women and
BIPOC/AAPI individuals and businesses have faced discrimination and disadvantages in
employment and business opportunities which have resulted in significant disparities in wealth
building opportunities.
In response to these inequities and disparities, city staff created a Diversity, Equity, and
Inclusion (DEI) Policy to be applied when reviewing development projects. The goal of this
policy is to promote inclusive and equitable opportunities for women and BIPOC/AAPI
individuals and businesses to enable them to build wealth. The policy provides specific goals for
the hiring of women and BIPOC/AAPI business organizations, business enterprises, workforce,
and peripheral enterprises for all new and renovated commercial and multifamily residential
buildings receiving financial assistance from the EDA/city.
The EDA/city council received a staff report on this policy in March 2022. Since that time the
policy has been placed into effect for all new projects receiving $200,000 or more in financial
assistance from the EDA or city funds. The EDA/city council discussed the policy at the
December 2022 study session and requested a final oral and/or written report be required once
a project is completed. This requirement has been added to the DEI policy and policy guide. In
addition, EDA and city attorneys have added minor additions since December’s discussion
clarifying that the policy provides DEI goals and not requirements.
Financial or budget considerations: The cost of implementing and tracking race, equity, and
inclusion goal requirements adds increased overhead expenses to total development costs.
Therefore, these additional costs will likely be included in any major financial assistance
requests submitted to the EDA/city. Additional city staff time will also be required for policy
monitoring and compliance.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to being a leader in racial equity
and inclusion in order to create a more just and inclusive community for all.
Supporting documents: Resolution; Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy
Prepared by: Jennifer Monson, redevelopment administrator
Reviewed by: Karen Barton, community development director
Greg Hunt, economic development manager
Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager
Economic development authority meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 3b) Page 2
Title: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy
EDA Resolution No. 23-____
Resolution approving amendments to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy
Whereas, the City of St. Louis Park’s racial equity statement says that the City “will strive
for racial equity by building understanding of the issues in our organization and intentionally
and proactively take measures to break down barriers to a just and inclusive community;” and
Whereas, in furtherance of that goal, the St. Louis Park Economic Development
Authority and the City created a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Policy created a Diversity, Equity
and Inclusion Policy (the “Policy”) that creates goals for women and black, indigenous, and
people of color (BIPOC) and Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) participation in projects
receiving public financial assistance and requires reporting of women and BIPOC/AAPI
participation; and
Whereas, the Board of Commissioners (“Board”) of the Authority has considered certain
proposed amendments to the Policy; and
Whereas, the Board has determined that it is reasonable, expedient and in the best
interest of the public to approve and adopt the Policy in the form attached hereto as Exhibit A.
Now therefore be it resolved that the Authority hereby approves the amended Policy in
the form attached to this Resolution as Exhibit A.
Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the Economic Development Authority
January 17, 2023
Karen Barton, executive director Nadia Mohamed, president
Attest:
Melissa Kennedy, secretary
SA285\3\761965.v2
To Effective December 12, 2022
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy
This policy promotes the inclusion of under-represented persons and businesses in
development projects receiving public financing through the Economic Development Authority
(“EDA”) and City of St. Louis Park (“City”) to meet the city council’s strategic priority of being a
leader in racial equity and inclusion in order to create a more just and inclusive community for
all.
The city recognizes the importance of creating opportunities for communities of color and
indigenous people to participate more equitably in the workforce and benefit from wealth
building opportunities. It is recognized that historical and institutional discrimination and
racism has disproportionately created challenges for women, Black, Indigenous, and People of
Color (BIPOC), and Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities. Women and
BIPOC/AAPI individuals and businesses have faced discrimination and disadvantages in
employment and business opportunities which have resulted in significant disparities in wealth
building opportunities.
The goal of this policy is to address these disparities and to promote inclusive and equitable
opportunities for women and BIPOC/AAPI individuals and businesses to build wealth.
The goals set forth in this policy further the city’s racial equity priorities. These goals are
intended to provide an incentive for developers to seek greater participation by women and the
BIPOC community in development projects funded with EDA/city financial assistance.
The reporting requirements in this policy will allow the EDA/city to monitor participation of
women and BIPOC/AAPI individuals and businesses in the EDA/city development contracts. That
way, the EDA/city can determine current overall participation rate and track the participation
rate over time. When compared to availability data, these statistics will allow the EDA/city to
measure the success of this policy and inform potential changes to this policy. In addition,
monitoring outreach to women and BIPOC/AAPI workforce and businesses, and which methods
are most successful will provide helpful anecdotal information to increase the effectiveness of
this policy.
These goals are included in the list of minimum qualifications for projects seeking tax increment
financing (TIF) and other financial assistance from the St. Louis Park Economic Development
Authority.
Economic development authority meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 3b)
Title: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy Page 3
SA285\3\761965.v2
This policy shall be used in conjunction with the established Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Policy User Guide which provides further guidance on reporting requirements and EDA/city
expectations.
Economic development authority meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 3b)
Title: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy Page 4
SA285\3\761965.v2
Effective December 12, 2022
1. Applicability and minimum project size
New construction, renovation or reconstruction projects receiving EDA/city financial
assistance
This policy applies to development projects that receive $200,000 or more in financial
assistance from the EDA/city and includes:
a) New construction, renovation, or reconstruction of commercial developments
b) New construction, renovation, or reconstruction of Industrial developments
c) New construction, renovation, or reconstruction of multi-family rental or for-sale
housing developments
d) New construction, renovation, or reconstruction of mixed-use developments
The development must comply with the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy in effect at the
time of the application date of planning and zoning applications and/or a signed preliminary
development agreement. If building permits have not been issued within two years of application
approvals or the building permits have expired or been canceled, the project must comply with
updates to this policy. The EDA/city council may grant an extension of time beyond two years if
a written request for a time extension is submitted to staff and approved by the economic
development authority and/or city council. Requests for extension of time must be submitted to
staff before the termination date.
2. Definitions
A) Financial Assistance: The Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Policy applies to all new and
renovated commercial and multifamily residential buildings receiving EDA/city financial
assistance.
Financial Assistance is defined as funds derived from EDA/city and includes, but is not
limited to, the following:
1) Tax Increment Financing (TIF) and/or Tax Abatement
2) Land write-downs
3) EDA grants and loans
4) Affordable Housing Trust Fund (AHTF) grants and loans
5) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds
6) Housing Rehabilitation funds
7) Revenue Bonds (private activity bonds are negotiable)
8) Housing Authority (HA) Funds
9) City of St. Louis Park funds
Economic development authority meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 3b)
Title: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy Page 5
SA285\3\761965.v2
Effective December 12, 2022
B) Business Organization: the developer’s business organization, including subsidiaries and
parent company.
C) Business Enterprises: the contractor(s) and sub-contractor(s) hired by or on behalf of the
developer for the project.
D) Workforce: Employees of contractor(s) and sub-contractor(s) working on the Project
E) Peripheral Enterprise(s): consultants and other businesses hired by the developer, or with
whom the developer has a relationship, in conjunction with the project. This includes, but
is not limited to, attorneys, financial consultants, financial institutions, suppliers,
accountants, etc.
F) Project: The development project as defined in the development agreement between the
EDA and the developer.
3. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion participation goals
General requirements
A development that is subject to this policy shall be subject to the following diversity, equity, and
inclusion participation business and workforce participation goals:
Participation Goals Women BIPOC/AAPI
Business Organization 10% 13%
Business Enterprises 6% 13%
Workforce 20% 32%
Peripheral Enterprises 6% 13%
The developer will agree to use reasonable efforts to meet these business enterprise, workforce,
and peripheral enterprise participation goals for women and Black, Indigenous and People of
Color (BIPOC)/AAPI in conjunction with construction, renovation, or reconstruction of the
development.
Participation goals will be measured according to the developer’s project as a whole and pertain
to the total amount of construction and related contracts. Developer must provide and use
reasonable efforts to cause its contractors/subcontractors to provide certain information and
resources to prospective contractors/subcontractors before bidding; to implement procedures
designed to notify women and BIPOC/AAPI about contracting opportunities; to document steps
taken to comply with participation goals and the results of actions taken; and to provide
compliance report(s). Refer to the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy User Guide for more
information regarding performance and compliance.
Economic development authority meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 3b)
Title: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy Page 6
SA285\3\761965.v2
Effective December 12, 2022
4. Agreements
A development agreement or other agreement shall be executed between the EDA and the
developer, in a form approved by the EDA or City legal counsel, which formally sets forth
development approval and diversity, equity, and inclusion goals in accordance with this policy. A
failure to meet the goals will not result in an event of default under the development agreement.
5. Reporting Requirements
The developer will be required to provide written reports to the EDA on a quarterly basis from
the date the development agreement is entered into until six months after the project receives
its certificate of occupancy from the city. The established Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy
User Guide provides further guidance on reporting requirements. At a minimum, the reports
must include the following information:
1) Total number of construction-related business enterprises (e.g. general contractor,
subcontractors) with
a) percentage of women-owned enterprises
b) percentage of BIPOC/AAPI-owned enterprises
c) percentage of total development dollars paid to women-owned enterprises
d) percentage of total development dollars paid to BIPOC/AAPI-owned enterprises
2) Total number of construction workforce employees with
a) percentage of women construction workforce employees
b) percentage of BIPOC/AAPI construction workforce employees
c) percentage of total construction hours women construction workforce employees
worked
d) percentage of total construction hours BIPOC/AAPI construction workforce employees
worked
3) List of peripheral enterprises with self-reported total number of employees, percentage of
women and percentage of BIPOC/AAPI employees
4) Summary of efforts made to reach participation goals and ongoing efforts to reach and/or
maintain participation goals, highlighting outreach methods that were most effective and
outreach methods that were least effective
Economic development authority meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 3b)
Title: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy Page 7
Meeting: Economic development authority
Meeting date: January 17, 2023
Consent agenda item: 3c
Executive summary
Title: Memorandum of understanding with PIPCLT for 4300 36th ½ Street West (Ward 2)
Recommended action: Motion to adopt Resolution approving the Memorandum of
Understanding with Partnership in Prosperity Commercial Land Trust (PIPCLT) for 4300 36th ½
Street West.
Policy consideration: Does the EDA wish to formalize its working relationship with Partnership
in Prosperity Commercial Land Trust (PIPCLT) in connection with the recently acquired 4300
36th ½ Street West property so as to create affordable commercial spaces for limited income
small businesses?
Summary: In September 2022, the EDA acquired the 8,600 square foot retail building at 4300
36th ½ Street West. Staff has been working with the Partnership in Property Commercial Land
Trust (PIPCLT) with the objective of dividing the building into four to seven retail/office spaces
that could subsequently be sold to small businesses under a land trust arrangement. Under
such an arrangement, the land trust would retain title to the underlying land and lease it to
individual businesses on a long-term basis at an affordable rate. Businesses would purchase (or
lease to own) their individual spaces in the building which would be made more affordable by
taking the land cost out of the purchase price. The concept allows qualified, limited income
entrepreneurs the rare opportunity to acquire their own commercial spaces at reduced cost
thereby enabling them to build assets and wealth. This structure would also retain the
affordability in perpetuity when commercial spaces are sold in the future.
Staff believes it prudent to formalize the EDA’s working relationship with PIPCLT through a
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Under the proposed MOU, the parties pledge to work
cooperatively towards defining the project and its components, determining its financial
feasibility, and the approvals necessary to bring it to fruition. Additionally, the parties agree to
negotiate in good faith toward a definitive Purchase and Development Contract as well as
securing financing for the project. The Agreement is for two years and may be terminated by
either party at any time upon 10 day’s written notice to the other party.
Financial or budget considerations: Once a work plan and project budget are prepared and
financing is secured, it is anticipated that the 4300 36th ½ Street property would be sold to
PIPCLT and renovated. As indicated in previous staff reports, building renovations will likely
require financial assistance from the EDA which have been budgeted in the Development Fund.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a broad range of
housing and neighborhood oriented development.
Supporting documents: Resolution; Memorandum of Understanding
Prepared by: Greg Hunt, economic development manager
Reviewed by: Karen Barton, community development director/EDA executive director
Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager
Economic development authority meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 3c) Page 2
Title: Memorandum of understanding with PIPCLT for 4300 36th ½ Street West (Ward 2)
EDA Resolution No. 23-____
Resolution approving a memorandum of understanding with
Partnership in Property Commercial Land Trust
Whereas, the St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority (the “Authority”) was
created pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Sections 469.090 through 469.1081, as amended, and
was authorized to transact business and exercise its powers by a resolution adopted by the City
Council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota (the “City”); and
Whereas, the Authority and the City have undertaken a program to promote economic
development and job opportunities, and promote the development and redevelopment of land
which is underutilized within the City; and
Whereas, to facilitate the redevelopment of certain property located at 4300 36 ½ Street
West in the City (the “Property”), the Authority acquired the Property for a purchase price of
$1,788,000.00; and
Whereas, Partnership in Property Commercial Land Trust, a Minnesota non-profit
corporation (the “Developer”), is interested in acquiring the Property from the Authority for
purposes of renovating the Property for use as a multi-tenant commercial building to be a part of
PIPCLT’s commercial land trust program to create and preserve affordable commercial space in the
City (the “Project”); and
Whereas, the Authority and the Developer are willing and desirous to mutually undertake
the Project if (i) a satisfactory agreement can be reached regarding the terms of sale of the
Property to the Developer; (ii) satisfactory financing for the Project can be secured; (iii) the parties
reach a satisfactory resolution of matters related to building redesign and renovation; and (iv) the
economic feasibility and soundness of the Project and other necessary preconditions have been
determined to the satisfaction of the parties; and
Whereas, there has been presented to the Board of Commissioners (the “Board”) of the
Authority a Memorandum of Understanding with the Developer related to the Property and the
Project (the “Memorandum”).
Now therefore be it resolved that the Authority hereby approves the Memorandum in
substantially the form presented to the Board, together with any related documents necessary in
connection therewith is approved (collectively, the “Development Documents”).
Be it further resolved that the Board hereby authorizes the President and Executive
Director, in their discretion and at such time, if any, as they may deem appropriate, to execute the
Development Documents on behalf of the Authority, and to carry out, on behalf of the Authority,
the Authority’s obligations thereunder when all conditions precedent thereto have been satisfied.
The Development Documents shall be in substantially the forms on file with the Authority and the
approval hereby given to the Development Documents includes approval of such additional details
therein as may be necessary and appropriate and such modifications thereof, deletions therefrom
Economic development authority meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 3c) Page 3
Title: Memorandum of understanding with PIPCLT for 4300 36th ½ Street West (Ward 2)
and additions thereto as may be necessary and appropriate and approved by legal counsel to the
Authority and by the officers authorized herein to execute said documents prior to their execution;
and said officers are hereby authorized to approve said changes on behalf of the Authority. The
execution of any instrument by the appropriate officers of the Authority herein authorized shall be
conclusive evidence of the approval of such document in accordance with the terms hereof. This
resolution shall not constitute an offer and the Development Documents shall not be effective
until the date of execution thereof as provided herein.
Be it further resolved that in the event of absence or disability of the officers, any of the
documents authorized by this resolution to be executed may be executed without further act or
authorization of the Board by any duly designated acting official, or by such other officer or officers
of the Board as, in the opinion of the City Attorney, may act on their behalf. Upon execution and
delivery of the Development Documents, the officers and employees of the Board are hereby
authorized and directed to take or cause to be taken such actions as may be necessary on behalf of
the Board to implement the Development Documents.
Be it further resolved that this resolution shall be effective upon approval.
Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the Economic Development
Authority January 17, 2023
Karen Barton, executive director Nadia Mohamed, president
Attest:
Melissa Kennedy, secretary
Economic development authority meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 3c) Page 4
Title: Memorandum of understanding with PIPCLT for 4300 36th ½ Street West (Ward 2)
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
This Memorandum of Understanding (this “MOU”), dated as of January 17, 2023 (the
“Effective Date”), sets forth certain agreements and understandings between Partnership in
Property Commercial Land Trust, a Minnesota non-profit corporation (“PIPCLT”) and St Louis
Park Economic Development Authority, a body corporate and politic under the laws of the State
of Minnesota (“Authority”) relating to that property located at 4300 36 ½ Street West in the City
St. Louis Park, Minnesota (the “Property”).
BACKGROUND
WHEREAS, the Authority desires to promote redevelopment of the Property which is located
within Redevelopment Project No. 1 in the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota (the “City”); and
WHEREAS, the Authority has acquired the Property at a purchase price of $1,788,000.00;
and
WHEREAS, PIPCLT desires to acquire the Property for purposes of renovating the Property
for use as multi-tenant building to be a part of PIPCLT’s commercial land trust program to create and
preserve affordable commercial space in the City (the “Project”); and
WHEREAS, PIPCLT’s role and responsibilities will include, but are not limited to securing
funding for the project, acquiring the site from the Authority, acting as the Developer of the Project,
and obtaining purchase commitments from qualified small businesses for spaces within the building;
and
WHEREAS, the Authority has secured a $380,000 grant from Hennepin County’s
Community Investment Initiative (CII) program to partially offset specified costs in implementing
the Project; and
WHEREAS, the Authority and PIPCLT are willing and desirous to mutually undertake the
Project if (i) a satisfactory agreement can be reached regarding the terms of sale of the Property to
PIPCLT; (ii) satisfactory financing for the Project can be secured; (iii) the parties reach a satisfactory
resolution of matters related to building redesign and renovation; and (iv) the economic feasibility
and soundness of the Project and other necessary preconditions have been determined to the
satisfaction of the parties; and
WHEREAS, the parties wish to enter into this Agreement setting forth their respective
responsibilities in connection with the Property.
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and of the mutual covenants and
obligations set forth herein, the Authority and PIPCLT hereby agree as follows:
AGREEMENT AND UNDERSTANDING
1. The Authority has the Property at a purchase price of $1,788,000.00. The Authority
and PIPCLT will work cooperatively to determine an appropriate purchase price for the subsequent
sale of the Property to PIPCLT.
Economic development authority meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 3c) Page 5
Title: Memorandum of understanding with PIPCLT for 4300 36th ½ Street West (Ward 2)
2. The parties agree to work cooperatively towards defining the Project and its
components (including but not limited to promotion and marketing of the building, drafting
building plans and specifications, remodeling the building for use by small businesses; determining
the number of tenant units, preparing requirements for sale of the building on the Property to future
tenants, ongoing affordability requirements, and ongoing property management), determining its
financial feasibility, and the approvals necessary to bring it to fruition, as well as to negotiate in
good faith toward a definitive Purchase and Development Contract (the “Contract”) as well as
securing financing for the Project. The Contract shall provide generally for (a) purchase of the
Property by PIPCLT; (b) how and when PIPCLT shall sell the existing building on the Property
and long-term conditions for such sales to help promote the affordability of commercial space
located on the Property; (c) renovations necessary for the Project to be completed by PIPCLT; (d)
if applicable, a business subsidy agreement as required under Minnesota Statutes, Section 116J.993
through 116J.995, as amended; and (e) as required by Minnesota Statutes, Section 469.105, as
amended, right of reverter whereby ownership of the Property will revert to the EDA in the event
that the Project is not completed. Any definitive Contract is subject to approval by the Authority’s
Board of Commissioners. It is expressly understood that the Contract, when executed, will
supersede this Agreement in all respects. Execution and implementation of the Contract shall be
subject to:
(a) A determination by the Authority in its sole discretion that any financial
assistance is feasible based on (i) availability of funding sources for the Project designated
by the Authority, including any grants; and (ii) the best interests of the City and Authority.
(b) A determination by the Authority in its sole discretion that the Project is
economically feasible and in the best interests of the City and Authority.
(c) A determination by the Authority that any financial assistance is reasonably
necessary in order to make the Project financially feasible, and that any such assistance is
limited to the amount necessary to achieve financial feasibility based on a review of all the
facts and circumstances.
(d) A determination by PIPCLT that the Project is both marketable and
economically feasible and in the best interests of PIPCLT, and that PIPCLT is able to meet
all the requirements of the Contract (subject to any contingencies contained therein).
3. PIPCLT shall prepare a project pro forma (including a detailed list of various revenue
sources and the respective amounts necessary to bring the Project to fruition) and submit it to the
Authority for its review.
4. PIPCLT shall work to obtain funds necessary to bring the Project to fruition. The
Authority will cooperate with PIPCLT in connection with marketing the building to prospective
buyers and any application for grants, loans, or similar funds to be applied to the Project.
5. PIPCLT’s role and responsibilities will include but not be limited to placing the
Property into its commercial community land trust portfolio once construction is complete and title
is good and marketable of record. PIPCLT will in turn sell the building or portions of the building
to qualified small business owners using the Community Land Trust practice. Prospective owners
(applicants) will have to meet PIPCLT’s program requirements and work through the application
process for approval. PIPCLT will provide long-term affordability for the commercial business
owners.
Economic development authority meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 3c) Page 6
Title: Memorandum of understanding with PIPCLT for 4300 36th ½ Street West (Ward 2)
6. This Agreement may be terminated by either party at any time upon 10 day’s written
notice to the other party (a) if in the respective sole discretion of the Authority or PIPCLT, an impasse
has been reached in the negotiation or implementation of any material term or the completion or
execution of any material condition of this Agreement or the Contract, and the parties have been
unable to resolve such impasse through good-faith negotiations within 30 days after the party
determining the impasse has notified the other party in writing of such determination; (b) by mutual
written agreement of the parties hereto; or (c) pursuant to paragraph 8 hereof. Upon such termination,
no party shall have any further obligations to the others under this Agreement.
7. In expansion and not in limitation of paragraph 6 hereof, PIPCLT agrees to notify the
Authority and to terminate this Agreement as soon as reasonably practicable if PIPCLT determines
that the proposed Project is not marketable and economically feasible and/or PIPCLT is unable to
secure the financing necessary for the Project, or if PIPCLT for any reason is unable to bring the
Project to fruition.
8. This Agreement shall terminate by its terms if the governing body of the Authority
has not approved the Contract within 2 years from the date hereof.
9. PIPCLT agrees to indemnify, defend and hold harmless the City, the Authority and
their officers, employees, agents and representatives from and against any claims, demands, suits,
costs, expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees) actions or other proceedings whatsoever by any
person or entity whatsoever arising or purportedly arising from the actions or inactions of PIPCLT
(or if other persons acting on its behalf or under its direction or control) under this Agreement, or the
transactions contemplated hereby or the acquisition, construction, installation, ownership, and
operation of the Project; including, without limitation, any claim by a land owner or tenant located on
the Property to be entitled to relocation costs and related expenses. This indemnity shall be continuing
and shall survive the performance, termination or cancellation of this Agreement. Nothing in this
Agreement shall be construed as a limitation of or waiver by the Authority or the City of any
immunities, defenses, or other limitations on liability to which the Authority is entitled by law,
including but not limited to the maximum monetary limits on liability established by Minnesota
Statutes, Chapter 466.
10. Notice or demand or other communication between or among the parties shall be
sufficiently given if sent by mail, postage prepaid, return receipt requested or delivered personally:
(a) As to the Authority:
St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority
5005 Minnetonka Boulevard
St. Louis Park, MN 55416
(b) As to PIPCLT:
PIPCLT
1819 Lowry Avenue North
Minneapolis, MN 55412
11. This Agreement may be executed simultaneously by manual or electronic signature
in any number of counterparts, all of which shall constitute one and the same instrument.
Economic development authority meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 3c) Page 7
Title: Memorandum of understanding with PIPCLT for 4300 36th ½ Street West (Ward 2)
12. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of
the State of Minnesota. Any disputes, controversies, or claims arising out of this Agreement shall be
heard in the state or federal courts of Minnesota, and all parties to this Agreement waive any objection
to the jurisdiction of these courts, whether based on convenience or otherwise.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Authority has caused this Agreement to be duly executed in its name
and behalf and its seal to be duly affixed hereto and PIPCLT has caused this Agreement to be duly
executed as of the date and year first above written.
ST. LOUIS PARK ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, a public
body corporate and politic under the laws of the
State of Minnesota
By: _________________________________
Its President
By: _________________________________
Its Executive Director
PARTNERSHIP IN PROPERTY COMMERCIAL LAND TRUST,
a Minnesota non-profit corporation
By: ________________________________
Name: _____________________________
Its: ________________________________
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: January 17, 2023
Presentation: 3a
Executive summary
Title: Nancy Weiman-Schmelzle Retirement Recognition
Recommended action: Read resolution and present plaque to Nancy for her years of service to
the City of St. Louis Park.
Policy consideration: None at this time.
Summary: City policy states that employees who retire or resign in good standing with over 20
years of service will be presented with a resolution from the mayor, city manager and city
council.
Nancy will be in attendance for the presentation at the beginning of the meeting. The mayor is
asked to read the resolution for Nancy in recognition of her years of service to the city.
Financial or budget considerations: Not applicable.
Strategic priority consideration: Not applicable.
Supporting documents: Resolution
Prepared by: Rita Vorpahl, HR director
Reviewed by: Cheyenne Brodeen, administrative services director
Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager
City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 3a) Page 2
Title: Nancy Weiman-Schmelzle Retirement Recognition
Resolution No. 23-___
Resolution of the
City Council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota
recognizing the contributions and expressing appreciation to
Community EMT Nancy Weiman-Schmelzle
Whereas, Nancy Weiman-Schmelzle began her employment with the City of St. Louis Park Fire
Department over 26 years ago on July 10, 1996; and
Whereas, Nancy was part of the inaugural class of paid-on-call firefighters for the City of St.
Louis Park; and
Whereas, Nancy is the longest serving part-time firefighter on the department; and
Whereas, Nancy served as a Team Leader from 2002 to 2017; and
Whereas, Nancy educated countless adults and children on fire prevention and safety over the
span of her career; and
Whereas, Nancy served as a fire prevention and community outreach specialist from 2017 to
2018; and
Whereas, Nancy became one of the first Community EMT’s in the State of Minnesota in 2018;
and served in that role for over four years delivering compassionate care to countless community
members; and
Whereas, Nancy has been a been a homeowner in the City of St. Louis Park for 27 years, giving
back to her community to make it a safer place to live and work; and
Now therefore be it resolved that the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota, by
this resolution and public record, would like to thank Nancy Weiman-Schmelzle for her great
contributions and more than 26 years of dedicated service to the City of St. Louis Park and wish her
the best in her future endeavors.
Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the City Council January 17, 2023
Kim Keller, city manager Jake Spano, mayor
Attest:
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: January 17, 2023
Presentation: 3b
Executive summary
Title: Recognition of donations
Recommended action: Mayor to announce and express thanks and appreciation for the
following donations being accepted at the meeting and listed on the consent agenda:
From Donation For
Park Coin $250 Fire prevention programs and equipment
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to creating opportunities to build
social capital through community engagement.
Supporting documents: None
Prepared by: Chase Peterson-Etem, deputy city clerk
Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: January 17, 2023
Consent agenda item: 5a
Executive summary
Title: Traffic study no. 762 – Authorizing parking restrictions on 35th Street west of Raleigh
Avenue – Ward 2
Recommended action: Motion to approve a resolution authorizing parking restrictions on 35th
Street west of Raleigh Avenue.
Policy consideration: Installing parking restrictions is allowed per the city's established
regulatory authority.
Summary: Staff received a request in 2021 to restrict truck parking on 35th Street west of
Raleigh Avenue due to parked trucks creating limited visibility for vehicles entering and exiting
driveways. The traffic committee recommended prohibiting truck parking from 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.
on both sides of the street. This recommendation was shared with property owners along 35th
Street and Raleigh Avenue. Staff received limited feedback with no consensus on preferred
restriction, and no action was taken at that time.
Staff revisited the request in the fall of 2022 based on the observations of significantly
increased truck parking along both sides of 35th Street. Staff modified the recommendation and
requested feedback from property owners of 35th Street and Raleigh Avenue. Based on the
feedback received, staff modified the recommendation for the second and final time in
December 2022.
The final recommendation includes the following:
•Prohibit truck parking on the entire section of 35th Street west of Raleigh Avenue after 7
a.m. and before 6 p.m. This would include weekends.
•Prohibit all parking in the cul-de-sac to allow larger vehicles and maintenance
equipment room to turn around.
Financial or budget considerations: The cost of installing these restrictions is estimated to be
$1,800 and is expected to come from the general operating budget. Similar traffic signs last
roughly 10 years in the field.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options for
people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Resolution
Location map
Aug. 2, 2021 council report
Prepared by: Jack Sullivan, engineering project manager
Kerrwin Dempsey, engineering technician III
Reviewed by: Debra Heiser, engineering director
Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager
Page 2 City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5a)
Title: Traffic study no. 762 – Authorizing parking restrictions on 35th Street west of Raleigh Avenue
Discussion
Background
Concerns regarding truck parking on 35th Street first came to the traffic committee in the fall of
2021 from a bicyclist that experienced limited sightlines created by on-street truck parking. The
traffic committee recommended prohibiting truck parking from 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. on both sides of
the street. This recommendation was shared with property owners of 35th Street and Raleigh
Avenue. Staff received feedback from two property owners on Raleigh Avenue. Their feedback
didn't provide consensus on preferred restriction, and no action was taken.
35th Street is 39 feet wide, which provides adequate room for on-street parking for all vehicles
on both sides of the road and allows for two-way traffic.
Revised recommendation
Staff revisited this area in August of 2022 as we observed a significant increase in on-street
truck parking. The traffic committee reexamined the request and recommended a modification
to the on-street parking restrictions that included:
•Prohibit all parking along the south side of 35th Street west of Raleigh Avenue and the
cul-de-sac. This is adjacent to 5105 36th Street (United States Post Office), 3555 Hwy
100 (LA Fitness) and 3575 Hwy 100 (Goodwill Thrift Store).
•Prohibit all parking on the north side of 35th Street from Raleigh Avenue to the first
commercial driveway entrance to the west of Raleigh Avenue near 5100 35th Street
(American Tire Distributors).
•The remainder of the north side of 35th Street would have been available for vehicle
and truck parking. This would include the area adjacent to 3501 Hwy 100 (Opitz &
Associates).
This recommendation was shared with property owners along 35th Street and Raleigh Avenue.
The only feedback received was by the property owner of Opitz & Associates. They stated that
the parking restrictions did not meet their needs. They plan to open a retail business at this
location and stated that on-street truck parking could create sightline issues for patrons.
Second revision to parking recommendation
Staff reviewed the adjacent land use, amount of available off-street parking and sight
lines/compatible uses when evaluating truck parking restrictions at this location and found the
following:
•Adjacent land use: This area is zoned business park, industrial park and general
commercial. Overnight truck parking is a compatible use in these districts.
•Adjacent off-street parking: The adjacent properties all have sufficient off-street
parking to meet their needs. On-street parking is not needed for these businesses to
operate.
•Sight lines/compatibility with roadway and driveway accesses:
o Eliminates the concern related to sight lines/visibility of storefronts during
normal business hours.
o Trucks parked on the street adhere to the proper setback from driveways, stop
signs and fire hydrants and do not interfere with roadway operations.
Page 3 City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5a)
Title: Traffic study no. 762 – Authorizing parking restrictions on 35th Street west of Raleigh Avenue
In addition to the above criteria, signing the cul-de-sac no parking provides efficient snowplow
operations and adequate space for larger vehicles to turn around.
Staff modified the recommendation based on the feedback to include the following:
•Prohibit truck parking on the entire section of 35th Street west of Raleigh Avenue after 7
a.m. and before 6 p.m. This would include weekends.
•Prohibit all parking in the cul-de-sac to allow larger vehicles and maintenance
equipment room to turn around.
See the attached exhibit for an illustration of the recommended parking restrictions.
A letter was again sent to all property owners of 35th Street and Raleigh Avenue. In addition,
staff placed signage along 35th Street notifying all users of the updated recommended parking
restrictions. The signage included information to contact the engineering department to share
feedback. Staff received feedback from only a few individuals.
•Opitz & Associates stated that 6 p.m. is not late enough as they expect to stay open until
8 p.m.
•A user of LA Fitness stated that it is challenging to see around trucks parked on 35th
Street as they leave the parking lot. They recommend that trucks be allowed to park on
the north side of 35th Street as they are seeing trucks starting to park on Raleigh
Avenue to avoid 35th Street.
•A property owner on Raleigh Avenue noticed additional trucks parking on Raleigh
Avenue once the temporary signage was placed on 35th Street.
•A truck driver called to ask if they needed to move their truck immediately but gave no
feedback on the recommended parking restrictions.
The latest recommendation provides a safe travel way for access to all the commercial uses
along this segment of 35th Street and improves sightlines for vehicles leaving the adjacent
commercial properties.
Additional considerations regarding truck parking restrictions
In July 2021, the City of Minneapolis enacted an ordinance that prohibits truck parking on their
city streets that went into effect on Jan 1, 2022. In August 2021, the city council approved an
ordinance that created the authority to restrict semi-trucks from parking on streets in non-
residential areas. Since that time, staff has seen an increase in truck parking complaints across
the community. As individual truck restrictions are enacted, truck drivers find other locations in
the community to park their vehicles. Since 2021, truck restrictions have been installed in the
following locations based on complaints:
•CSAH 25 Frontage Roads east of Beltline Boulevard
•Oxford Street west of Louisiana Avenue
•Highway 7 South Frontage Road west of Texas Avenue
Staff is now seeing an increase in truck parking at the following locations and anticipates
complaints in the future:
•Monitor Street east of Loffler Companies
•Oxford Street east of Louisiana Ave
•27th Street west of Louisiana Avenue
Page 4 City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5a)
Title: Traffic study no. 762 – Authorizing parking restrictions on 35th Street west of Raleigh Avenue
The signage notifying users of 35th Street of the truck parking recommendations resulted in an
immediate shift in truck parking to Raleigh Avenue. Staff made daily visits to 35th Street and
observed the changes to parking behavior during December and early January. Staff also
received calls from property owners along Raleigh Avenue that shared similar observations.
With the snowy winter weather, staff was able to observe that many of the trucks parked on
35th Street exceeded the city's 48-hour parking ordinance. These observations were forwarded
to the police department to address the parking violations.
Next steps
Staff will continue to monitor truck parking and is recommending that on-street truck parking
be discussed in the connected infrastructure study session system discussion in 2023.
Schedule
If the installation of the no parking signs is approved, the additional signs will be installed in the
spring of 2023 after the ground is thawed.
Page 5 City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5a)
Title: Traffic study no. 762 – Authorizing parking restrictions on 35th Street west of Raleigh Avenue
Resolution No. 23-____
Authorizing parking restrictions on 35th Street west of Raleigh Avenue
Whereas, The City of St. Louis Park received a request to install parking restrictions on
35th Street from Raleigh Avenue west to the cul-de-sac; and,
Whereas, installing truck parking restrictions is allowed per city ordinance 2623-21; and,
Whereas, staff has reviewed the request and recommended the installation of parking
restrictions on 35th Street from Raleigh Avenue west to the cul-de-sac; and
Now therefore be it resolved by the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota
that the engineering director is authorized to:
1.Install truck parking restrictions on 35th Street from Raleigh Avenue west to the start
of the cul-de-sac after 7 a.m. and before 6 p.m., including weekends; and
2.Install parking restrictions on 35th Street in the cul-de-sac west of Raleigh Avenue to
prohibit all parking.
Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the City Council January 17, 2023
Kim Keller, city manager Jake Spano, mayor
Attest:
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk
36TH ST W36TH ST W RALEIGH AVE SRALEIGH AVE SPARKPARKCENTERCENTERBLVDBLVD35TH ST W35TH ST W
HIGHWAY 100 SHIGHWAY 100 S51003459
3555
5105
3551
5300
5100
3501
3575
0 250 500125
Feet
Traffic Study 762: 35th Street proposed parking restrictions
Revised December 1, 2022
Date: 12/01/2022
Truck parking prohibited between 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.
No parking any time
City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5a)
Title: Traffic study no. 762 – Authorizing parking restrictions on 35th Street west of Raleigh Avenue Page 6
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: January 17, 2023
Consent agenda item: 5b
Executive summary
Title: Traffic Study No. 770 - Authorize parking restriction on 31st Street – Ward 1
Recommended action: Motion to adopt resolution authorizing the installation of loading zones
on the north and south side of 31st Street between Glenhurst and Inglewood avenues.
Policy consideration: Does the city council support designating two loading zones along 31st
Street to provide locations for vehicles to conduct short-term business for residents of 31st
Street?
Summary: Staff received a request from a resident in November 2022 to evaluate the addition
of a loading zone on the north side of 31st Street west of Glenhurst Avenue. The requestor was
concerned with vehicles being left unattended in the driving lanes of 31st Street while short-
term transactions such as package delivery or ride-share activities take place on the block.
There are currently no parking restrictions on the block. Housing on the south side of the road
is made up of several multi-unit buildings. Since the opening of the Parkway 25 apartment
building on the north side of the road in early 2022, on-street parking has increased
significantly. Often there is no available space for delivery and ride-share vehicles to safely pull
to the side of the road while they complete their business. This has led to blockages of the
travel lanes and driveways while drivers leave their vehicles, making the roadway impassable
for short periods of time.
The traffic committee recommended adding two 45-foot loading zones, one on each side of the
road, at approximately mid-block. This will permanently remove four parking stalls from the
block. Changing the four parking stalls to loading zones is not in conflict with the parking
requirements of the adjacent housing. Residents and property owners were contacted for
comment. The only feedback received was from the requestor in favor of the recommendation.
Installing the loading zones will provide a short-term parking area for deliveries and resident
drop off and pick up, as well as an area for a vehicle to pull to the side of the road when
meeting on-coming vehicles. If the installation of the loading zone signs is approved, the
additional signs will be installed in the spring of 2023 after the ground is thawed.
Financial or budget considerations: The cost to install the traffic controls are minimal and will
come out of the general operating budget.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options for
people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably.
Supporting documents: Resolution
Location map
Prepared by: Jack Sullivan, engineering project manager
Kerrwin Dempsey, engineering technician III
Reviewed by: Debra Heiser, engineering director
Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager
City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5b) Page 2
Title: Traffic Study No. 770 - Authorize parking restriction on 31st Street – Ward 1
Resolution No. 23-____
Authorizing loading zones on the 4000-4100 block of 31st Street
Whereas, In November of 2022 the City of St. Louis Park received a request to install a
loading zone on the north side 4000-4100 block of 31st Street; and,
Whereas, staff has reviewed the request and recommended the installation of loading
zones on the north and south side of 4000-4100 block of 31st Street; and
Whereas, adjacent land use is medium and high-density residential units with high
demand for delivery services; and
Whereas, the loading zone spaces will provide short-term parking for deliveries near the
main entrance of the apartment building at 4040 31st Street on the north side of 31st Street
and to multi-unit housing units on the south side of 31st Street; and
Whereas, changing the four parking stalls to loading zones is not in conflict with the
parking requirements of the adjacent housing.; and
Now therefore be it resolved by the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota
that the engineering director is authorized to:
1. Establish a loading zone on the north side of 31st Street beginning at a point 207 feet
west of Glenhurst Avenue to a point 45 feet west of the beginning; and
2. Establish a loading zone on the south side of 31st Street beginning at a point 372 feet
east of Inglewood Avenue to a point 45 feet west of the beginning.
Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the City Council January 17, 2023
Kim Keller, city manager Jake Spano, mayor
Attest:
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk
41414141
30433043
392539254009400940014001
31253125
41014101
30303030
4646
40154015
32003200
40134013
40404040
40514051
31ST ST W
INGLEWOODAVESGLENHURST AVE0 100 20050
Feet
Proposed loading zones
Proposed load zone - 31st Street
Date: 12/20/2022
45'45'
45'45'
City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5b)
Title: Traffic Study No. 770 - Authorize parking restriction on 31st Street – Ward 1 Page 3
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: January 17, 2023
Consent agenda item: 5c
Executive summary
Title: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy
Recommended action: Motion to adopt Resolution approving the Diversity, Equity, and
Inclusion Policy.
Policy consideration: Does the City Council approve the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy?
Summary: The city recognizes the importance of creating opportunities for women, black
people, indigenous people, people of color (BIPOC), and Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders
(AAPI) to participate more equitably in the workforce and benefit from wealth building
opportunities. It is recognized that historical and institutional discrimination and racism has
disproportionately created challenges for women and BIPOC/AAPI communities. Women and
BIPOC/AAPI individuals and businesses have faced discrimination and disadvantages in
employment and business opportunities which have resulted in significant disparities in wealth
building opportunities.
In response to these inequities and disparities, city staff created a Diversity, Equity, and
Inclusion (DEI) Policy to be applied when reviewing development projects. The goal of this
policy is to promote inclusive and equitable opportunities for women and BIPOC/AAPI
individuals and businesses to enable them to build wealth. The policy provides specific goals for
the hiring of women and BIPOC/AAPI business organizations, business enterprises, workforce,
and peripheral enterprises for all new and renovated commercial and multifamily residential
buildings receiving financial assistance from the EDA/city.
The EDA/city council received a staff report on this policy in March 2022. Since that time the
policy has been placed into effect for all new projects receiving $200,000 or more in financial
assistance from the EDA or city funds. The EDA/city council discussed the policy at the
December 2022 study session and requested a final oral and/or written report be required once
a project is completed. This requirement has been added to the DEI policy and policy guide. In
addition, EDA and city attorneys have added minor additions since December’s discussion
clarifying that the policy provides DEI goals and not requirements.
Financial or budget considerations: The cost of implementing and tracking race, equity, and
inclusion goal requirements adds increased overhead expenses to total development costs.
Therefore, these additional costs will likely be included in any major financial assistance
requests submitted to the EDA/city. Additional city staff time will also be required for policy
monitoring and compliance.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to being a leader in racial equity
and inclusion in order to create a more just and inclusive community for all.
Supporting documents: Resolution; Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy
Prepared by: Jennifer Monson, redevelopment administrator
Reviewed by: Karen Barton, community development director
Greg Hunt, economic development manager
Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager
City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5c) Page 2
Title: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy
Resolution No. 23-____
Resolution Approving amendments to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy
Whereas, the City of St. Louis Park’s racial equity statement says that the City “will strive
for racial equity by building understanding of the issues in our organization and intentionally
and proactively take measures to break down barriers to a just and inclusive community”; and
Whereas, in furtherance of that goal, the City and the Economic Development Authority
created a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Policy (the “Policy”) that creates goals for women and
black, indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) and Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI)
participation in projects receiving public financial assistance and requires reporting of women
and BIPOC/AAPI participation; and
Whereas, the Board of Commissioners (“Board”) of the St. Louis Park Economic
Development Authority (the “Authority”) has considered certain proposed amendments to the
Policy and has presented such amended and restated Policy (the “Amended Policy”) to the City
Council of the City of St. Louis Park (the “City”) for its review and approval; and
Whereas, the City Council has determined that it is reasonable, expedient and in the
best interest of the public to approve and adopt the Policy in the form attached hereto as
Exhibit A.
Now therefore be it resolved that the City Council hereby approves the Amended Policy
in the form attached to this Resolution as Exhibit A.
Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the City Council January 17, 2023
Kim Keller, city manager Jake Spano, mayor
Attest:
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk
SA285\3\761965.v2
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy
This policy promotes the inclusion of under-represented persons and businesses in
development projects receiving public financing through the Economic Development Authority
(“EDA”) and City of St. Louis Park (“City”) to meet the city council’s strategic priority of being a
leader in racial equity and inclusion in order to create a more just and inclusive community for
all.
The city recognizes the importance of creating opportunities for communities of color and
indigenous people to participate more equitably in the workforce and benefit from wealth
building opportunities. It is recognized that historical and institutional discrimination and
racism has disproportionately created challenges for women, Black, Indigenous, and People of
Color (BIPOC), and Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities. Women and
BIPOC/AAPI individuals and businesses have faced discrimination and disadvantages in
employment and business opportunities which have resulted in significant disparities in wealth
building opportunities.
The goal of this policy is to address these disparities and to promote inclusive and equitable
opportunities for women and BIPOC/AAPI individuals and businesses to build wealth.
The goals set forth in this policy further the city’s racial equity priorities. These goals are
intended to provide an incentive for developers to seek greater participation by women and the
BIPOC community in development projects funded with EDA/city financial assistance.
The reporting requirements in this policy will allow the EDA/city to monitor participation of
women and BIPOC/AAPI individuals and businesses in the EDA/city development contracts. That
way, the EDA/city can determine current overall participation rate and track the participation
rate over time. When compared to availability data, these statistics will allow the EDA/city to
measure the success of this policy and inform potential changes to this policy. In addition,
monitoring outreach to women and BIPOC/AAPI workforce and businesses, and which methods
are most successful will provide helpful anecdotal information to increase the effectiveness of
this policy.
These goals are included in the list of minimum qualifications for projects seeking tax increment
financing (TIF) and other financial assistance from the St. Louis Park Economic Development
Authority.
City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5c)
Title: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy Page 3
Effective December 12, 2022
SA285\3\761965.v2
This policy shall be used in conjunction with the established Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Policy User Guide which provides further guidance on reporting requirements and EDA/city
expectations.
City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5c)
Title: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy Page 4
SA285\3\761965.v2
Effective December 12, 2022
1. Applicability and minimum project size
New construction, renovation or reconstruction projects receiving EDA/city financial
assistance
This policy applies to development projects that receive $200,000 or more in financial
assistance from the EDA/city and includes:
a) New construction, renovation, or reconstruction of commercial developments
b) New construction, renovation, or reconstruction of Industrial developments
c) New construction, renovation, or reconstruction of multi-family rental or for-sale
housing developments
d) New construction, renovation, or reconstruction of mixed-use developments
The development must comply with the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy in effect at the
time of the application date of planning and zoning applications and/or a signed preliminary
development agreement. If building permits have not been issued within two years of application
approvals or the building permits have expired or been canceled, the project must comply with
updates to this policy. The EDA/city council may grant an extension of time beyond two years if
a written request for a time extension is submitted to staff and approved by the economic
development authority and/or city council. Requests for extension of time must be submitted to
staff before the termination date.
2. Definitions
A) Financial Assistance: The Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Policy applies to all new and
renovated commercial and multifamily residential buildings receiving EDA/city financial
assistance.
Financial Assistance is defined as funds derived from EDA/city and includes, but is not
limited to, the following:
1) Tax Increment Financing (TIF) and/or Tax Abatement
2) Land write-downs
3) EDA grants and loans
4) Affordable Housing Trust Fund (AHTF) grants and loans
5) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds
6) Housing Rehabilitation funds
7) Revenue Bonds (private activity bonds are negotiable)
8) Housing Authority (HA) Funds
9) City of St. Louis Park funds
City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5c)
Title: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy Page 5
SA285\3\761965.v2
Effective December 12, 2022
B) Business Organization: the developer’s business organization, including subsidiaries and
parent company.
C) Business Enterprises: the contractor(s) and sub-contractor(s) hired by or on behalf of the
developer for the project.
D) Workforce: Employees of contractor(s) and sub-contractor(s) working on the Project
E) Peripheral Enterprise(s): consultants and other businesses hired by the developer, or with
whom the developer has a relationship, in conjunction with the project. This includes, but
is not limited to, attorneys, financial consultants, financial institutions, suppliers,
accountants, etc.
F) Project: The development project as defined in the development agreement between the
EDA and the developer.
3. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion participation goals
General requirements
A development that is subject to this policy shall be subject to the following diversity, equity, and
inclusion participation business and workforce participation goals:
Participation Goals Women BIPOC/AAPI
Business Organization 10% 13%
Business Enterprises 6% 13%
Workforce 20% 32%
Peripheral Enterprises 6% 13%
The developer will agree to use reasonable efforts to meet these business enterprise, workforce,
and peripheral enterprise participation goals for women and Black, Indigenous and People of
Color (BIPOC)/AAPI in conjunction with construction, renovation, or reconstruction of the
development.
Participation goals will be measured according to the developer’s project as a whole and pertain
to the total amount of construction and related contracts. Developer must provide and use
reasonable efforts to cause its contractors/subcontractors to provide certain information and
resources to prospective contractors/subcontractors before bidding; to implement procedures
designed to notify women and BIPOC/AAPI about contracting opportunities; to document steps
taken to comply with participation goals and the results of actions taken; and to provide
compliance report(s). Refer to the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy User Guide for more
information regarding performance and compliance.
City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5c)
Title: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy Page 6
SA285\3\761965.v2
Effective December 12, 2022
4. Agreements
A development agreement or other agreement shall be executed between the EDA and the
developer, in a form approved by the EDA or City legal counsel, which formally sets forth
development approval and diversity, equity, and inclusion goals in accordance with this policy. A
failure to meet the goals will not result in an event of default under the development agreement.
5. Reporting Requirements
The developer will be required to provide written reports to the EDA on a quarterly basis from
the date the development agreement is entered into until six months after the project receives
its certificate of occupancy from the city. The established Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy
User Guide provides further guidance on reporting requirements. At a minimum, the reports
must include the following information:
1) Total number of construction-related business enterprises (e.g. general contractor,
subcontractors) with
a) percentage of women-owned enterprises
b) percentage of BIPOC/AAPI-owned enterprises
c) percentage of total development dollars paid to women-owned enterprises
d) percentage of total development dollars paid to BIPOC/AAPI-owned enterprises
2) Total number of construction workforce employees with
a) percentage of women construction workforce employees
b) percentage of BIPOC/AAPI construction workforce employees
c) percentage of total construction hours women construction workforce employees
worked
d) percentage of total construction hours BIPOC/AAPI construction workforce employees
worked
3) List of peripheral enterprises with self-reported total number of employees, percentage of
women and percentage of BIPOC/AAPI employees
4) Summary of efforts made to reach participation goals and ongoing efforts to reach and/or
maintain participation goals, highlighting outreach methods that were most effective and
outreach methods that were least effective
City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5c)
Title: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policy Page 7
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: January 17, 2023
Consent agenda item: 5d
Executive summary
Title: Approve amended inclusionary housing policy
Recommended action: Motion to approve the amended inclusionary housing policy to modify
the for-sale property requirements, increase the affordability period to 26 years, add flexibility
around the development mix for senior housing developments, and provide additional clarity in
the policy.
Policy consideration: Do the proposed policy amendments meet the expectations and intent of
the council?
Summary: The inclusionary housing policy was first approved in June 2015 and has been
amended four times since the initial adoption. The current policy requires new market-rate
multifamily residential rental properties with ten or more units that receive financial assistance
from the city, seek PUD land use approvals, or request a comprehensive plan amendment, to
include units affordable to low-income households in the development. In the case of a for-sale
property, developers are required to make a payment to the city in lieu of including affordable
units in the project. The most recent amendment to the policy in 2021 added the requirement
of three bedroom or larger sized units in developments with at least 50 units. A modification
was also made to the parking requirements for the policy.
The inclusionary housing policy is directly responsible for the creation of over 800 affordable
rental units in St. Louis Park and is achieving the goal of creating affordable housing
opportunities in the community. Staff regularly monitor the implementation of the policy and
make appropriate recommendations to amend the policy as needed. Staff presented and
council discussed several proposed changes at the November 14, 2022 study session as part of
the housing and neighborhood development systems discussion.
Financial or budget considerations: City staff time to implement, manage, and monitor
compliance of the inclusionary housing policy as the number of developments subject to the
policy continue to increase.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a broad range of
housing and neighborhood oriented development.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Inclusionary Housing Policy
Prepared by: Marney Olson, housing supervisor
Nicole Randall, housing assistance administrator
Reviewed by: Karen Barton, community development director
Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager
Page 2 City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5d)
Title: Approve amended inclusionary housing policy
Discussion
Background
In June 2015, the city council adopted an Inclusionary Housing Policy that requires the inclusion
of affordable housing units for households with lower incomes in new, market rate, multi-unit
residential developments receiving financial assistance from the city. The goal of the
Inclusionary Housing Policy is to increase the supply of affordable housing and promote
economic and social integration. The policy has been amended four times since the initial
adoption. The current policy requires new market-rate multifamily residential rental properties
with ten or more units that receive financial assistance from the city, seek PUD land use
approvals, or request a comprehensive plan amendment, to include units affordable to low-
income households in the development. In the case of a for-sale property, developers are
required to make a payment to the city in lieu of including affordable units in the project.
Proposed policy changes
Staff proposed the following changes to the inclusionary housing policy which were discussed at
the November 14, 2022 study session and had support from council:
Affordability period
Increase the affordability period to 26 years to be consistent with the requirement for housing
TIF districts.
For-sale requirements
For-sale home ownership developments are required to remit a payment in lieu of including
affordable units in the development. The current policy states, “the payment in lieu will be an
amount equal to the difference between the average market rate sale price of the for-sale units
in the development and the for-sale home purchase amount affordable to a household with an
income at or below 80% AMI. The amount of the difference will be multiplied by a number
equal to 15% of the total number of for-sale units in the development.” Changes to the for-sale
requirements in the policy are as follows:
•Cap the payment in lieu equal to the for-sale home purchase amount affordable to a
household with an income at or below 80% AMI. The current affordable home price for
a household at 80% AMI is $355,600 and is calculated each year by the Metropolitan
Council. If the average market sale price in the development exceeds twice that of the
affordable purchase price, the payment in lieu would be set at the affordable purchase
price.
•Housing cooperatives are listed as a for-sale home ownership development. The master
mortgage will be taken into consideration, in addition to the sale price, when
determining the payment in lieu.
Number of bedrooms in the affordable units in senior housing developments
The current policy states the affordable dwelling units shall have a number of bedrooms in the
approximate proportion as the market rate units. Recently a senior housing development
struggled to lease up their affordable two-bedroom units and had to request a waiver to allow
them to increase the number of one-bedroom affordable units. In addition, many senior two-
bedroom affordable units may still be unaffordable for some low-income senior households.
Council was supportive of some flexibility around this policy. Staff are proposing an updated
Page 3 City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5d)
Title: Approve amended inclusionary housing policy
modification to the policy from the initial proposal in November 2022. The proposed
modification allows developments that are 100% age restricted serving households 55 years of
age or older to propose an alternative unit mix for consideration. Any deviation from the policy
would require city council approval and must be reflected in any request for city financial
assistance.
Recorded agreements, conditions, and restrictions
Add language to XI. E. of the current policy to make it clear that the requirement of the
affordable units to be managed and operated in compliance with rules and regulations outlined
in the Inclusionary Housing Program Guide apply to all of the affordable units.
Family sized unit requirement
Added clarity around this section of the policy.
The inclusionary housing policy is attached with the proposed changes.
Next steps
Upon approval of the amended Inclusionary Housing Policy the new requirements will become
effective immediately for any future residential housing developments required to comply with
the policy that have not yet entered into a development agreement with the city or submitted a
planning application for a development.
Page 4 City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5d)
Title: Approve amended inclusionary housing policy
Inclusionary Housing Policy
This policy promotes high quality housing for households with a variety of income levels, ages,
and sizes in order to meet the city's goal of preserving and promoting economically diverse
housing options in our community.
The city recognizes the need to provide affordable housing to households of a broad range of
income levels in order to maintain a diverse population and to provide housing for those who
live or work in the city. Without intervention, the trend toward rising housing prices in new
developments will continue to increase. As a result, this policy is being adopted to ensure that a
reasonable proportion of each new development receiving city financial assistance, seeking
PUD land use approvals or requesting a comprehensive plan amendment include units
affordable to low-and-moderate income households and working families or in the case of for-
sale units, make a payment in lieu of including affordable units.
The requirements set forth in this policy further the city’s housing goals and the city’s
comprehensive plan to create and preserve affordable housing opportunities. These
requirements are intended to provide a structure for participation by both the public and
private sectors in the production of affordable housing.
I.Applicability and minimum project size
This policy applies to market rate multi-unit residential developments that receive financial
assistance from the city, seek PUD land use approvals or request a comprehensive plan
amendment, and includes:
a)new developments that create at least 10 multi-family dwelling units; or
b)any mixed-use building that creates at least 10 multi-family dwelling units; or
c)renovation or reconstruction of an existing building that contains multi-family
dwelling units that includes at least 10 dwelling units; or
d)any change in use of all or part of an existing building from a non- residential use to
a residential use that includes at least 10 dwelling units.
The development must comply with the Inclusionary Housing Policy as amended and approved
by the city council as of the date the development enters into a development agreement with
the city or submits a planned unit development application for the project, whichever action
comes first.
II.Affordable dwelling units
General requirement
Rental developments and for-sale developments subject to this policy shall provide a minimum
number of affordable dwelling units or a payment in lieu subject to the requirements listed
below.
Page 5 City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5d)
Title: Approve amended inclusionary housing policy
Calculation of units and payment in lieu required.
For development of multi-family dwelling units:
a)The required number of affordable dwelling units or corresponding payment in lieu is
based on the total number of dwelling units that are approved by the city or the number
of naturally occurring affordable housing (NOAH) dwelling units that are being
demolished or converted to a use other than low-income dwelling units in connection
with construction of the development.
b)To calculate the number of affordable dwelling units or payment in lieu required in a
development the total number of approved dwelling units shall be multiplied by five
percent (5%), ten percent (10%), fifteen percent (15%) or twenty (20%) depending on
the affordability standard. If the final calculation includes a fraction, the fraction of a
unit shall be rounded to the nearest whole number.
c)If an occupied rental property with existing dwelling units is remodeled and/or
expanded, the number of affordable dwelling units shall be based on the total number
of units following completion of renovation/expansion. At least five percent (5%), ten
percent (10%) or twenty percent (20%) shall be affordable, depending on the
affordability standard.
d)NOAH dwelling units that are being demolished or converted to a use other than low-
income dwelling units in connection with construction of the development must be
replaced in the new development on a one-for-one basis. New developments must
include a minimum number of affordable dwelling units equal to at least five percent
(5%) to twenty percent (20%) of the total number of dwelling units in the development
or the number of naturally occurring affordable housing dwelling units that are being
demolished or converted, whichever is greater. Any deviation from replacing NOAH
units on a one-for-one basis requires city approval.
*A NOAH unit is defined as a unit in which the amount of rent charged is affordable
to a household whose income is at or below 60% area median income based on
bedroom size, or for a for-sale unit, affordable to a household whose income is at or
below 80% AMI.
e)For-sale home ownership developments will be required to pay a payment in lieu of
including affordable units in the development. The payment in lieu will be an amount
equal to the difference between the average market rate sale price of the for-sale units
in the development and the for-sale home purchase amount affordable to a household
with an income at or below eighty percent (80%) AMI, not to exceed for-sale home
purchase amount at the 80% AMI. The amount of the difference will be multiplied by a
number equal to fifteen percent (15%) of the total number of for-sale units in the
development. Home-ownership housing is defined as a form of housing tenure in which
a person, called the owner-occupier, owner-occupant, or homeowner, owns the home in
which they live. The home can be a house, such as a single-family house, an apartment,
condominium, or a housing cooperative.
Page 6 City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5d)
Title: Approve amended inclusionary housing policy
III.Affordability level
The required number of affordable dwelling units within a residential project subject to this policy
shall meet an income eligibility and rent affordability standard for the term of the restriction as
follows:
a)Rental Projects:
1.At least twenty percent (20%) of the units shall be affordable for households at
sixty percent (60%) Area Median Income (AMI), or
2.At least ten percent (10%) of the units shall be at affordable for households at
fifty percent (50%) AMI, or
3.At least five percent (5%) of the units shall be affordable for households at thirty
percent (30%) AMI.
b)Demolished or converted NOAH units:
NOAH units demolished or converted to a use other than affordable housing in
connection with the construction of the new development must be replaced on a one-
for-one basis or at rate and affordability level as noted in III. a, whichever is greater. The
new units must be comparable in bedroom size to the units demolished or converted
and be affordable to households at 60% AMI or below.
*A NOAH unit is defined as a rental unit in which the amount of rent charged is
affordable to a household whose income is at or below 60% area median income
based on bedroom size or a for-sale unit affordable to a household whose
income is at or below 80% AMI. NOAH status for rental units will be based on
the rents charged on the date 6 months prior to the submitting of a
development application.
c)For-sale projects:
For-sale home ownership developments will pay a payment in lieu of including
affordable units in the development. The payment in lieu will be an amount equal to
the difference between the average market rate sale price of the for-sale units in the
development and the current for-sale home purchase amount affordable to a
household with an income at or below eighty percent (80%) AMI. The payment will be
multiplied by a number equal to fifteen percent (15%) of the total number of for-sale
units in the development. NOAH pricing for for-sale dwelling units shall be determined
at time of issuance of the occupancy permit. The master mortgage, in addition to the
sale price, will be considered when determining the payment in lieu for housing
cooperatives.
d)Rent and sale price level
Rental unit: The monthly rental cost for an affordable dwelling unit shall include rent,
utility costs, and any other non-optional monthly occupancy charges. Surface parking for
all inclusionary units, if available, or enclosed parking for inclusionary units at the 30%
AMI affordability level shall also be included in the monthly rent for the unit. The
maximum rent amount shall be based on the metropolitan area that includes St. Louis
Park adjusted for bedroom size and calculated annually by the Department of Housing
and Urban Development and posted by Minnesota Housing for establishing rent limits
for the Housing Tax Credit Program.
Page 7 City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5d)
Title: Approve amended inclusionary housing policy
For-sale projects: The qualifying affordable sale price for an owner-occupied affordable
dwelling unit shall be based on a homeownership unit affordable to a household with
income at or below eighty percent (80%) AMI for the metropolitan area that includes St.
Louis Park calculated annually by the Department of Housing and Urban Development
and posted by the Metropolitan Council.
e)Period of affordability
For rental developments subject to this policy, the period of affordability for the
affordable dwelling units shall be at least twenty-five (25) twenty six (26) years.
IV.Family sized unit requirement
Developments with 50 units or greater are required to include a minimum number of three-or
four bedroom or larger size units. The specific number of three-or four bedroom or larger size
units required per development is based on the total number of units in the development as
noted in the table below.
Building Development size –
total residential units
Required Minimum Number of 3
and/or 4- three-bedroom or larger
size units
50 - 74 2
75 – 99 3
100 - 124 4
125 - 149 5
150 – 174 6
175 + 7
Developments with age restrictions that are 100% age restricted serving households 55 years of
age or older are exempt from this requirement. Any deviation from the family size unit policy
requires city approval.
V.Parking requirement
The Inclusionary Policy requires that at least one on-site parking stall (either surface or
enclosed) be provided for each affordable unit. If adequate on-site surface parking exists as
determined by the city based on the development’s parking plan, the requirement will be met
by providing a surface parking space at no additional cost to the tenant. If underground or
enclosed parking is the only on-site parking option available for residents, an enclosed parking
stall must be offered to the tenant at a discounted rate. The market rate parking fee will be
discounted based on the affordability level of the inclusionary units as follows:
Inclusionary affordability level Parking fee cost to resident
30 % AMI Free – included in rent
50% AMI 50% of the market rate fee *
60% AMI 60% of the market rate fee
*Example: if the market rate fee for parking is $100 per month, residents of inclusionary units at the 50%
AMI affordability level will pay $50 per month.
Page 8 City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5d)
Title: Approve amended inclusionary housing policy
For developments utilizing a combination of surface parking and enclosed parking to meet the
inclusionary parking requirements, a waiting list will be established, and parking options will be
offered based on the resident’s placement on the list. Only inclusionary unit residents with a
tenant owned vehicle are eligible for parking at no or a reduced charge.
City approval must be obtained for any proposed alternative to the parking requirements noted
in the policy.
VI.Location of affordable rental dwelling units
Except as otherwise specifically authorized by this policy, the affordable dwelling units
shall be located within the development.
IV.Standards for inclusionary rental units
Size and design of affordable units
The size and design of the affordable dwelling units should be consistent and comparable with the
market rate units in the rest of the project and is subject to the approval of the city. The interior
of affordable dwelling units is not required to be identical to the market rate units but if units are
smaller than the other units with the same number of bedrooms in the development, city
approval must be obtained.
If naturally occurring affordable housing dwelling units are being demolished or converted to a use
other than lower-income dwelling units in connection with construction of the development, an
equal number of affordable units with a comparable number of bedrooms to the units demolished
or converted must be included in the new development.
Exterior/interior appearance.
The exterior materials and design of the affordable dwelling units in any development subject to
these regulations shall be indistinguishable in style and quality with the market rate units in the
development. The interior finish and quality of construction of the affordable dwelling units shall
at a minimum be comparable to entry level rental housing in the city. Construction of the
affordable dwelling units shall be concurrent with construction of market rate dwelling units.
VII.Integration of affordable dwelling units
Distribution of affordable rental housing units.
The affordable dwelling units shall be incorporated into the overall project unless expressly
allowed to be located in a separate building or a different location approved by the city
council. Affordable dwelling units shall be distributed throughout the building.
Number of bedrooms in the affordable units.
The affordable dwelling units shall have a number of bedrooms in the approximate proportion
as the market rate units. The mix of unit types, both bedroom and accessible units, of the
affordable dwelling units shall be approved by the city. Developments that are 100% age
restricted serving households 55 years of age or older may propose an alternative unit mix for
consideration. Any deviation from this policy requires city council approval and must be
reflected in any request for city financial assistance.
Page 9 City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5d)
Title: Approve amended inclusionary housing policy
Tenants
Rental affordable dwelling units shall be rented only to income eligible families during the
period of affordability. A household that was income eligible at initial occupancy may remain in
the affordable dwelling unit for additional rental periods as long as the income of the
household does not exceed one-hundred forty percent (140%) of the applicable AMI.
Affordable units must be administered in compliance with the rules and procedures stated in
St. Louis Park’s Inclusionary Housing Program Guide.
VIII.Alternatives to on-site development of affordable dwelling units
This section provides alternatives to the construction of affordable dwelling units onsite. The
alternatives are listed in subsection (c), below.
a)The alternatives must be:
1.Approved by the city council; and
2.Agreed to by the applicant in an Affordable Housing Performance
Agreement with the city; and
3.Applicant must show evidence acceptable to the city that a formal
commitment to the proposed alternative is in place.
b)This section does not apply unless the applicant demonstrates:
1.The alternative provides an equivalent or greater amount of affordable
dwelling units in a way that the city determines better achieves the goals,
objectives and policies of the city’s housing goals and Comprehensive
Plan than providing them onsite; and
2.Will not cause the city to incur any net cost as a result of the alternative
compliance mechanism.
c)If the conditions in (b) are met, the city may approve one or more of the
following options to providing affordable dwelling units that are required by this
policy.
1.Dedication of existing units: Restricting existing dwelling units which are
approved by the city as suitable affordable housing dwelling units
through covenants or contractual arrangements. The city shall determine
whether the form and content of the restrictions comply with this policy.
Off-site units shall be located within the City of St. Louis Park. The
restriction of such existing units must result in the creation of units that
are of equivalent quality and size of the affordable dwelling units which
would have been constructed on-site if this alternative had not been
utilized.
2.Off-site construction: Offsite construction of affordable units must be
constructed within the city and should be located in proximity to public
transit service at a site approved by the city.
3.Partnering with an affordable housing developer: Participation in the
construction of affordable dwelling units by another developer on a
different site within the city.
4.Proposed alternative: An alternative proposed by the applicant that
directly provides or enables the provision of affordable housing units
Page 10 City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5d)
Title: Approve amended inclusionary housing policy
within the city. The alternative must be approved by the city and made a
condition of approval of the Affordable Housing Performance Agreement.
IX.Non-discrimination based on rent subsidies:
Developments covered by the policy must not discriminate against tenants who would pay their
rent with federal, state or local public assistance, including tenant based federal, state or local
subsidies, including, but not limited to rental assistance, rent supplements, and Housing Choice
Vouchers.
X.Affordable housing plan
a) Applicability
Developments that are subject to this policy shall include an Affordable Housing
Plan as described below. An Affordable Housing Plan describes how the developer
complies with each of the applicable requirements of this policy.
b)Approval
1.The Affordable Housing Plan shall be approved by the city.
2.Minor modifications to the plan are subject to approval by the city
manager. Major modifications are subject to approval by the city council.
Items that are considered major and minor will be designated in the
Affordable Housing Plan.
c)Contents
The Affordable Housing Plan shall include at least the following:
1.General information about the nature and scope of the development
subject to these regulations.
2.For requests of an alternative to on-site provision of affordable housing,
evidence that the proposed alternative will further affordably housing
opportunities in the city to an equivalent or greater extent than compliance with
the otherwise applicable on-site requirements of this policy.
3.The total number of market rate units, and for rental developments, the
number of affordable dwelling units in the rental development.
4.The floor plans for the affordable dwelling units showing the number of
bedrooms and bathrooms in each unit.
5.The approximate square footage of each affordable dwelling unit and
average square foot of market rate unit by types.
6.Building floor plans and site plans showing the location of each
affordable dwelling unit.
7.The pricing of each ownership dwelling unit shall be determined at time
of issuance of the occupancy permit. At time of sale this price may be adjusted if
there has been a change in the median income or a change in the formulas used
in this ordinance.
8.The order of completion of market rate and affordable dwelling units.
9.Documentation and specifications regarding the exterior appearance,
materials and finishes of the development for each of the affordable dwelling
units illustrating that the appearance of affordable units are comparable to the
appearance of the market-rate units.
Page 11 City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5d)
Title: Approve amended inclusionary housing policy
10.An Affordable Dwelling Unit Management Plan documenting policies and
procedures for administering the affordable dwelling units in accordance with
the Affordable Housing Performance Agreement.
11.Any and all other information that the city manager may require that is
needed to achieve the council’s affordable housing goals.
XI.Recorded agreements, conditions, and restrictions
a) An Affordable Housing Performance Agreement shall be executed between the city
and a developer, in a form approved by the city attorney, based on the Affordable
Housing Plan described in Section VII, which formally sets forth development approval
and requirements to achieve affordable housing in accordance with this policy and
location criteria. The Agreement shall identify:
1.the location, number, type, and size of affordable housing units to be
constructed;
2.sales and/or rental terms; occupancy requirements;
3.a timetable for completion of the units; and
4.restrictions to be placed on the units to ensure their affordability and any
terms contained in the approval resolution by the city as applicable.
b)The applicant or owner shall execute any and all documents deemed necessary by the
city manager, including, without limitation, restrictive covenants, and other related
instruments, to ensure the affordability of the affordable housing units in accordance
with this policy.
c)The applicant or owner must prepare and record all documents, restrictions,
easements, covenants, and/or agreements that are specified by the city as conditions
of approval of the application prior to issuance of a zoning compliance permit for any
development subject to this policy.
d)Documents described above shall be recorded in the Hennepin County
Registry of Deeds as appropriate.
e)Inclusionary Housing Program Guide: The All affordable units in the affordable
housing performance agreement will be managed and operated in compliance with
rules and regulations outlined in the Inclusionary Housing Program Guide.
XII. Definitions
a)Affordable Dwelling Unit: The required affordable dwelling units within a residential
project subject to this policy shall meet an income eligibility and rent affordability
standard for the term of the restriction as follows:
1)Rental Projects:
a.At least twenty percent (20%) of the units shall be affordable for
households at sixty percent (60%) Area Median Income (AMI), or
Page 12 City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5d)
Title: Approve amended inclusionary housing policy
b.At least ten percent (10%) of the units shall be at affordable for
households at fifty percent (50%) Area Median Income.
c.At least five percent (5%) of the units shall be affordable for households at
thirty percent (30%) Area Medium Income.
2)For-Sale Projects:
The qualifying affordable sale price for an owner-occupied affordable dwelling
unit shall be based on a household income of eighty percent (80%) AMI for the
metropolitan area that includes St. Louis Park calculated annually by the
Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Home-ownership housing is defined as a form of housing tenure in which a person,
called the owner-occupier, owner-occupant, or homeowner, owns the home in which
they live. The home can be a house, such as a single-family house, an apartment,
condominium, or a housing cooperative.
b)Affordable Housing Plan: A plan that documents policies and procedures for administering
the affordable dwelling units in accordance with the Affordable Housing Performance
Agreement.
c)Affordable Housing Performance Agreement: Agreement between the city and the
developer which formally sets forth development approval and requirements to achieve
Affordable Housing in accordance with this policy.
d)Financial Assistance: The Inclusionary Affordable Housing Policy applies to all new and
renovated multifamily residential buildings receiving city financial assistance, seeking PUD
land use approvals or request an amendment to the comprehensive plan.
Financial Assistance is defined as funds derived from the city and includes but is not
limited to the following:
1.City of St. Louis Park Funds
2.Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)
3.City Housing Rehabilitation Funds
4.Revenue Bonds (private activity bonds are negotiable)
5.Tax Increment Financing (TIF) & Tax Abatement
6.Housing Authority (HA) Funds
7.Land Write-downs
e)NOAH units:
1.Rental units: A rental unit is defined as a NOAH unit if the amount of rent charged is
affordable to a household whose income is at or below 60% area median income
based on bedroom size.
2.Ownership unit: A for-sale unit is defined as a NOAH unit if the price of the home is
affordable to a household whose income is at or below 80% AMI.
f)Tenant paid rent: The monthly rent for an affordable dwelling unit shall include rent,
utility costs and any other non-optional monthly occupancy charges. Surface parking for
Page 13 City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5d)
Title: Approve amended inclusionary housing policy
all inclusionary units if available and enclosed parking for inclusionary units at the 30% AMI
affordability level shall also be included in the monthly rent for the unit. The rent shall be
based on the metropolitan area that includes St. Louis Park adjusted for bedroom size and
calculated annually by the Department of Housing and Urban Development and posted by
Minnesota Housing for establishing rent limits for the Housing Tax Credit Program.
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: January 17, 2023
Consent agenda item: 5e
Executive summary
Title: Cultural observances and proclamations
Recommended action: Staff recommends council begin the practice of recognizing culturally
significant days through corresponding proclamations.
Policy consideration: Does the council wish to recognize the cultural observances identified
with proclamations?
Summary: The City of St. Louis Park encourages community members to be aware and
respectful of diverse religious and cultural observances. Beginning in 2023, council is asked to
consider adopting proclamations in recognition of these days.
The calendar of proclamations is not intended to be a comprehensive list of religious and
cultural observances but includes dates of particular significance to traditions represented in
our community that occur during the year. It serves as a reminder to consider religious and
cultural observances when selecting dates for meetings and events. Additionally, the calendar
helps raise awareness and provides opportunities for cross cultural learning and connection in
the City of St. Louis Park.
Financial or budget considerations: None.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to being a leader in racial equity
and inclusion in order to create a more just and inclusive community for all.
Supporting documents: NA
Prepared by: Radious Y. Guess, race, equity, and inclusion director
Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager
Page 2 City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5e)
Title: Cultural observances and proclamations
Discussion
Background: The increasingly pluralistic population of the City of St. Louis Park is made up of
diverse racial, ethnic, cultural, faith and religious communities. To be a leader in racial equity
and inclusion so we may create a more just and inclusive community, we must enhance mutual
understanding among groups. A calendar of cultural observances enables the City of St. Louis
Park to increase awareness of and respect for religious obligations and ethnic and cultural
festivities that may affect students, colleagues, and neighbors in our community. A cultural
observances calendar is an essential tool to aid it knowing the historical, cultural, and religious
events of diverse groups, and their impact on our community.
Present considerations: St. Louis Park is a first-ring suburb in the greater metropolitan area
with a relatively high Jewish population, multiple synagogues, and a Buddhist Thai Temple (Wat
Promwachirayan). Conversations are happening within the community around opening a
mosque. We seek to become a community that embraces principles of equity and respect for
all its community members. By creating special observances, the City of St. Louis Park promotes
cultural and religious awareness and action on these issues.
St. Louis Park currently recognizes several cultural observances through the adopted council
meeting calendar. This calendar formally recognizes the importance of the events and increases
our understanding and appreciation of cultural differences and similarities within, among, and
between groups. Practically speaking, it also guides scheduling of official city business and is
used for internal and external educational communications.
Staff recommends the city expand its practical application of the cultural observances calendar
to include proclamations made by the city council. In addition to the observances listed, staff
also recommend proclamations on 8 additional significant days.
St. Louis Park has already identified the following national holidays and religious and cultural
observances when establishing its 2023 council calendar.
•New Year’s Day
•Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Day
•President’s Day
•Passover
•Eid al-Fitr
•Memorial Day
•Juneteenth
•Eid al-Adha
•Independence Day
•Labor Day
•Rosh Hashanah
•Yom Kippur
•Veteran’s Day
•Christmas Day
Page 3 City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5e)
Title: Cultural observances and proclamations
Proclamations: While not a comprehensive list of religious and cultural observances, staff
recommend bringing proclamations to you for the following days to educate the broader
community about specific cultural communities in St. Louis Park and honor those communities.
Additional benefits to issuing proclamations include greater opportunities for cross cultural
learning and connection in the City of St. Louis Park.
The following proclamations are recommended for public recognition.
•Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Day
•National Day of Racial Healing
•National Women’s History Month
•Ramadan
•Jewish Heritage Month
•AAPI Day
•PRIDE Day
•Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Next steps: If approved, staff will implement the introduced calendar for 2023. Staff will also
share the updated use of the cultural observances calendar with the Human Rights
Commission and receive any feedback for future updates. Council members are asked to
adopt the cultural observances and series of forthcoming proclamations
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: January 17, 2023
Consent agenda item: 5f
Executive summary
Title: Retirement recognition for Community EMT Nancy Weiman-Schmelzle
Recommended action: Motion to adopt Resolution to recognize Community EMT Nancy
Weiman-Schmelzle for more than 26 years of service.
Policy consideration: None at this time
Summary: City policy states that employees who retire or resign in good standing with over 20
years of service will be presented with a resolution from the mayor, city manager and the city
council. Nancy will be in attendance for a presentation of this resolution.
This consent item will officially adopt the resolution that honors Nancy for her years of service.
Financial or budget considerations: Not applicable.
Strategic priority consideration: Not applicable.
Supporting documents: Resolution
Prepared by: Rita Vorpahl, HR director
Reviewed by: Cheyenne Brodeen, administrative services director
Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager
City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5f) Page 2
Title: Nancy Weiman-Schmelzle Retirement Recognition
Resolution No. 23-___
Resolution recognizing the contributions and expressing appreciation to
Community EMT Nancy Weiman-Schmelzle
Whereas, Nancy Weiman-Schmelzle began her employment with the City of St. Louis Park
Fire Department over 26 years ago on July 10, 1996; and
Whereas, Nancy was part of the inaugural class of paid-on-call firefighters for the City of
St. Louis Park; and
Whereas, Nancy is the longest serving part-time firefighter on the department; and
Whereas, Nancy served as a Team Leader from 2002 to 2017; and
Whereas, Nancy educated countless adults and children on fire prevention and safety over
the span of her career; and
Whereas, Nancy served as a fire prevention and community outreach specialist from 2017 to
2018; and
Whereas, Nancy became one of the first Community EMT’s in the State of Minnesota in
2018; and served in that role for over four years delivering compassionate care to countless
community members; and
Whereas, Nancy has been a been a homeowner in the City of St. Louis Park for 27 years,
giving back to her community to make it a safer place to live and work; and
Now therefore be it resolved that the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota,
by this resolution and public record, would like to thank Nancy Weiman-Schmelzle for her great
contributions and more than 26 years of dedicated service to the City of St. Louis Park and wish
her the best in her future endeavors.
Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the City Council January 17, 2023
Kim Keller, city manager Jake Spano, mayor
Attest:
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: January 17, 2023
Consent agenda item: 5g
Executive summary
Title: Accept donation to Fire Department from Park Coin
Recommended action: Motion to adopt resolution accepting donation to the fire department
from Park Coin for fire prevention programs and equipment.
Policy consideration: Does the city council wish to accept this donation with restrictions on the
use?
Summary: State statute requires city council’s acceptance of donations. This requirement is
necessary in order to make sure the city council has knowledge of any restrictions placed on the
use of each donation prior to it being expended.
Park Coin is graciously donating to the fire department an amount of $250.00. The donation is
given with restrictions.
Financial or budget considerations: This donation will be used for fire prevention programs and
equipment.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to creating opportunities to build
social capital through community engagement.
Supporting documents: Resolution
Prepared by: Cary Smith, fire marshal
Reviewed by: Steve Koering, fire chief
Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager
City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 5g) Page 2
Title: Acceptance of Donation to Fire Department from Park Coin
Resolution No. 23-___
Resolution approving acceptance of donation to fire department
Whereas, the City of St. Louis Park is required by state statute to authorize acceptance of
any donation; and
Whereas, the city council must ratify any restrictions placed on the donation by the
donors; and
Whereas, the donations from Park Coin is directed toward fire prevention programs and
equipment.
Now therefore be it resolved by the city council of St. Louis Park that this donation is
hereby accepted with thanks and appreciation.
Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the City Council January 17, 2023
Kim Keller, city manager Jake Spano, mayor
Attest:
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: January 17, 2023
Consent agenda item: 5h
Executive summary
Title: Replace 2006 Caterpillar wheel loader, model 938M (unit #0609)
Recommended action: Motion to approve replacement of 2006 Caterpillar wheel loader, model
938M.
Policy consideration: Does the city council wish to follow our Capital Improvement Plan to
replace the 2006 Caterpillar wheel loader, model 938M (unit #0609) with a new, similar piece
of equipment?
Summary: The existing 2006 Caterpillar is a 17-year-old wheel loader and is scheduled to be
replaced in the 2023 capital improvement plan. This type of vehicle performs maintenance
duties including snow removal, asphalt repair, digging, hauling, grading and general loading for
all city departments. Staff has reviewed the replacement and based on age, condition and
salvage value, it is recommended to be replaced as planned. The replacement will be similar in
type and use.
The replacement will be made via the State of Minnesota cooperative purchasing venture with
Ziegler Cat, and since it is over the bid amount of $175,000, staff is bringing to council for
approval.
Financial or budget considerations: The purchase is in the city's adopted 2023 Capital
Improvement Plan. The replaced unit will be auctioned, and proceeds will go to the capital
replacement fund. The new loader is budgeted for $263,932 and the estimated replacement
amount is $262,293.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options for
people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably.
Supporting documents: None.
Prepared by: Tom O’Donnell, fleet manager
Reviewed by: Jean McGann, interim finance director
Jason T. West, director of parks and recreation
Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: January 17, 2023
Consent agenda item: 5i
Executive summary
Title: Temporary on-sale intoxicating liquor license – Beth El Synagogue
Recommended action: Motion to approve a temporary on-sale intoxicating liquor license for
Beth El Synagogue at 5225 Barry Street West for an event on January 21, 2023.
Policy consideration: Does the applicant meet the requirements for issuance of a temporary
on-sale intoxicating liquor license?
Summary: Beth El Synagogue has submitted an application for a temporary on-sale intoxicating
liquor license for their event taking place on January 21, 2023. This fundraising event is
honoring alumni parents, Ali and Josh Berdass for their deep dedication to, and volunteer
support of, the Aleph Preschool and Young Family Engagement at Beth El. The event will take
place at Beth El Synagogue, 5225 Barry Street West and liquor will be available from 3:30 – 10
p.m. Beth El Synagogue has required liability insurance through Hanover Insurance Group.
Approval of this application and the temporary license will be contingent on the police
department completing a successful background investigation.
Financial or budget considerations: The fee for a temporary liquor license is $100 per day of
the event.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to creating opportunities to build
social capital through community engagement.
Supporting documents: None
Prepared by: Chase Peterson-Etem, deputy city clerk
Approved by: Melissa Kennedy, city clerk
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: January 17, 2023
Public hearing: 6a
Executive summary
Title: Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue Improvement projects (4023-1100, 4024-1100) -
Ward 4
Recommended action: Mayor to open public hearing, take public testimony, and close public
hearing. At the Feb. 6, 2023 meeting, council will be asked to consider the following policy
questions and act on this project.
Policy consideration:
1. Does the city council support the preferred design alternative for the Cedar Lake Road
Improvement project?
2. Does the city council support the preferred design alternative for the Louisiana Avenue
Improvement project?
Summary: The city is proposing to reconstruct Cedar Lake Road from Jordan Avenue to
Kentucky Avenue in 2024 and Louisiana Avenue from Wayzata Boulevard to the bridge over the
railroad just south of Cedar Lake Road in 2025. The 2025 project also includes the construction
of a roundabout at the Louisiana Avenue and Cedar Lake Road intersection. The city hired the
consulting firm Kimley-Horn to complete the project planning, preliminary design, and public
engagement.
Since January 2022, the project team, made up of engineering, communications, and public
works staff, has been working with Kimley-Horn to develop a preferred design for both
corridors. The project team has done extensive community engagement to help inform the
recommended designs. The planning phase to develop and evaluate alternatives for these
projects is now complete. The project team has prepared a 30% layout of the preferred
alternatives that will be presented at the public hearing.
Financial or budget considerations: These projects are included in the city's capital
improvement plan (CIP). The total cost for the projects is estimated to be $20,348,400. Seven
million dollars will be paid for using regional solicitation federal funds, and $2.0 million will be
paid for using congressionally directed spending federal funds. The city's share of the project
cost, $11,348,400.00, will be paid for using utility funds and general obligation bonds (GO
bonds). Additional information on the breakdown of the funding can be found later in this
report.
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options for
people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Preferred alternative Cedar Lake Road
Preferred alternative Louisiana Avenue
Jan. 9, 2023 study session report
Prepared by: Joseph Shamla, engineering project manager
Reviewed by: Debra Heiser, engineering director
Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager
City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 6a) Page 2
Title: Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue Improvement projects (4023-1100, 4024-1100)
Discussion
Background
The city is proposing to reconstruct Cedar Lake Road, between Jordan Avenue and Kentucky
Avenue, in 2024 and Louisiana Avenue, between Wayzata Boulevard and the bridge over the
railroad located south of Cedar Lake Road, in 2025. The 2025 project also includes the
construction of a roundabout at the Louisiana Avenue and Cedar Lake Road intersection.
This segment of Cedar Lake Road is a bituminous roadway that was constructed in 1995.
Louisiana Avenue is a bituminous roadway that was constructed in 1991. Both roads are
nearing the end of their useful life. Staff is recommending reconstruction of these roadways
because routine maintenance activities such as bituminous overlays and crack seals are no
longer cost-effective in preserving the roads. In addition, the existing condition and geometry
pose challenges for people biking, walking, and with limited mobility. There is an existing
sidewalk on the north side of Cedar Lake Road and an existing sidewalk on the west side of
Louisiana Avenue.
Many pedestrian facilities along these corridors do not meet the requirements of the
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Residents have expressed interest in safer pedestrian
crossings. In the existing condition, dedicated bicycle facilities are not provided along either
corridor. Currently, people wishing to bike along Cedar Lake Road either need to bike within the
vehicle traffic lane or use the on-street parking lane, which is blocked when cars are parked on
the street. Anyone wishing to bike along Louisiana Avenue needs to bike within the vehicle
travel lane.
On-street parking is currently allowed in the following locations:
• Louisiana Avenue
o West side of the street, adjacent to Northside Park
• Cedar Lake Road
o North side of the street
Flag Avenue to Burd Place
Sumter Avenue to Pennsylvania Avenue
o South side of the street
Jordan Avenue to Burd Place
Sumter Avenue to Oregon Avenue
Information regarding these projects was shared with the city council in a written report for the
Jan. 9, 2023 study session. The study session report, which includes recommendations for the
elements to include in these projects, is attached. A summary of the information in the report:
• Project descriptions
• Public process
• Preferred alternatives
• Additional investigation: Traffic signals
• Additional investigation: Watermain pipe assessment
• Next steps
City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 6a) Page 3
Title: Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue Improvement projects (4023-1100, 4024-1100)
Financial or budget considerations
The following table outlines the estimated project cost and anticipated funding sources for this
project.
Cedar Lake Road
CIP Engineer's estimate
Construction cost $7,814,992 $7,814,992
Engineering and administration (25%) $1,953,748 $1,953,748
Land acquisition/ right of way $750,000 $750,000
Total $10,518,740 $10,518,740
Funding Sources
GO bonds (bikeway and sidewalk) $3,556,778 $1,045,085
GO bonds (roadway) $4,741,417 $1,468,747
Municipal State Aid $1,400,000 $1,129,038
Sanitary sewer $46,875 $46,875
Watermain $225,225 $225,225
Stormwater utility $548,445 $548,445
Federal Aid $0 $5,564,534
Congressionally directed spending $0 $490,791
Total $10,518,740 $10,518,740
Louisiana Avenue and roundabout at Louisiana Avenue and Cedar Lake Road intersection
CIP Engineer's estimate
Construction cost $7,520,506 $6,891,880
Engineering and administration (25%) $1,880,127 $1,722,970
Land acquisition/ right of way $1,375,000 $1,250,000
Total $10,775,633 $9,864,850
Funding Sources
GO bonds (bikeway and sidewalk) $2,730,525 $1,877,302
GO bonds (roadway) $6,003,333 $3,520,219
Municipal State Aid $1,400,000 $986,404
Sanitary sewer $22,500 $22,500
Watermain $26,250 $64,500
Stormwater utility $593,025 $449,250
Federal Aid $0 $1,435,466
Congressionally directed spending $0 $1,509,209
Total $10,775,633 $9,864,850
City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 6a) Page 4
Title: Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue Improvement projects (4023-1100, 4024-1100)
Staff note that the updated budget for the project includes $2 million received in
Congressionally Directed Funding and $7 million received in Regional Solicitation. These funds
are being applied against other funding sources, including needed GO bonds to reduce the
impact on taxpayers.
Reports from the industry indicate that we should expect an 8 to 10% increase in contract costs
in 2023. This inflation is due to trucking, labor, and material costs. It should be noted that our
CIP estimates were developed in June 2022, and this level of inflation was not factored in.
In the case of this project, the engineer's estimate factors in this expected inflation and is still
within the CIP budget. This may not be the case for all 2023 CIP projects brought forward to
council for approval.
In addition to increased costs, there are still supply chain delays for construction materials
resulting in a long lead time to receive them.
Operation and maintenance costs
The city is responsible for the operation and maintenance of Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana
Avenue. Most of the operation and maintenance associated with the facilities being
constructed with this project will remain unchanged.
Replacement of existing infrastructure and new infrastructure – Cedar Lake Road
Cedar Lake Road, between Jordan Avenue and Kentucky Avenue, currently has a sidewalk on
the north side of the road. Some of the existing sidewalk will need to be reconstructed to
accommodate the cycle track and bus stops. The existing sidewalk will also need to be
reconstructed in areas that don't meet ADA requirements.
The south side of Cedar Lake Road has an existing sidewalk from Flag Avenue to Boone Avenue.
This sidewalk will need to be reconstructed to accommodate the cycle track and in areas that
do not meet ADA. There will not be an increase in annual operational efforts for these
replacement facilities.
When this project is complete, Cedar Lake Road will have 5,800 feet of new sidewalk on the
south side of the road and 16,500 feet of cycle track on both sides of the road. Operation and
maintenance will be the responsibility of the city. Since staff is already clearing snow from
sidewalks/ trails in this area, it is expected the cost to add these to our system would be
minimal. Staff would add them to existing routes.
Replacement of existing infrastructure and new infrastructure – Louisiana Avenue
The west side of Louisiana Avenue, between Wayzata Boulevard and the bridge over the
railroad tracks, has an existing sidewalk. Some of this sidewalk will need to be reconstructed to
accommodate bus stops and in areas that do not meet ADA. The east side of Louisiana Avenue
has a sidewalk from Cedar Lake Road to the bridge over the railroad tracks.
Three thousand two hundred fifty (3,250) feet of new sidewalk will be constructed on the east
side of Louisiana Avenue from Wayzata Boulevard to the railroad bridge. Operation and
maintenance will be the responsibility of the city. Since staff is already clearing sidewalks/ trails
City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 6a) Page 5
Title: Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue Improvement projects (4023-1100, 4024-1100)
in this area, it is expected the cost to add these to our system would be minimal. Staff would
add them to existing routes.
In addition, parallel side streets Hampshire Avenue and Pennsylvania Avenue, between Cedar
Lake Road and Wayzata Boulevard, will be dedicated as share-the-road bicycle routes. The
existing trail that connects the Hampshire Avenue cul-de-sacs is in poor shape and will be
reconstructed to meet ADA requirements. There will not be an increase in annual operation
and maintenance costs for these facilities.
The existing traffic signal at the intersection of Louisiana Avenue and Cedar Lake Road will be
removed and a roundabout will be constructed. There will be landscaping in the roundabout
island that will require annual maintenance. Additional maintenance costs for this will depend
on the final design. Engineering and Parks staff will work to develop a plan incorporating low-
maintenance vegetation. Any additional funding needed for operation and maintenance will be
brought to the council as a part of the final project approval in 2024.
Staff recommendations
Preferred alternate – Cedar Lake Road
Staff recommends that the city council approve Alternate No. 2 – Cycle tracks for the Cedar
Lake Road reconstruction project.
Preferred alternate – Louisiana Avenue
Staff recommends that the city council approve Alternate No. 3 – Alternative routes for the
Louisiana Avenue reconstruction project.
See Jan. 9, 2023 report for additional information about the preferred alternatives.
Next steps
The proposed schedule is as follows:
City Council preferred alternative approval Feb. 6, 2023
Final plan development and final plan public engagement Fall 2023
City Council approval of the final plans for Cedar Lake Road January 2024
Private utility relocations begin on Cedar Lake Road Spring 2024
Road reconstruction: Cedar Lake Road 2024
City Council approval of the final plans for Louisiana Avenue September 2024
Private utility relocation begins on Louisiana Avenue Fall 2024
Road reconstruction: Louisiana Avenue and roundabout at
Cedar Lake Road
2025
X
X XX
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X X X
X X
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X X X X
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X
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X X X X X X X X
X
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NORT
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City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 6a)
Title: Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue Improvement projects (4023-1100, 4024-1100)Page 6
X XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXNORTHNORTHNORTH
City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 6a)
Title: Cedar Lake Road and Louisiana Avenue Improvement projects (4023-1100, 4024-1100)Page 7
Meeting: City council
Meeting date: January 17, 2023
Regular agenda item: 7a
Executive summary
Title: 2023 Pavement Management Project – (4023-1000) – Wards 3 and 4
Recommended action: Motion to adopt resolution accepting the project report, establishing
the 2023 Pavement Management Project (4023-1000), approving plans and specifications, and
authorizing advertisement for bids.
Policy consideration: Does the city council wish to pursue the staff-recommended pavement
rehabilitation, utility replacement and sidewalk installation?
Summary: The annual pavement management project rehabilitates several miles of local
residential streets. In 2023, the streets to be rehabilitated are in Pavement Management Area 1
(Lenox, Oak Hill, and Texa-Tonka neighborhoods) and Area 7 (Eliot View neighborhood). Street
rehabilitation work consists of replacing the existing bituminous pavement and replacing the
concrete curb and gutter as needed. Other work includes sidewalk repairs, sewer repairs and
watermain replacement.
There are new sidewalk segments being proposed adjacent to multi-unit naturally occurring
affordable housing in this project.
A public hearing was held at the Jan. 3, 2023 council meeting. The attached discussion provides
information addressing questions that were presented during the public hearing or thereafter.
Financial or budget considerations: This project is included in the city's 2023 capital
improvement plan (CIP) and will be paid for using franchise fees, utility funds, and general
obligation bonds (sidewalk). The total cost estimate for the project is $7,495,717.43. The
breakdown of the estimate is in the Jan. 3 Public Hearing report (link provided below).
Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options for
people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably.
Supporting documents: Discussion
Resolution
Attachment #1: Additional Resident Feedback
Attachment #2: Project scope and sidewalk recommendation map
Dec. 12, 2022 study session report
Jan. 3, 2023 public hearing report
Attachment #3: Edgewood Avenue parking restriction graphic
Prepared by: Aaron Wiesen, project engineer
Reviewed by: Debra Heiser, engineering director
Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager
City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 7a) Page 2
Title: 2023 Pavement Management Project – (4023-1000) – Wards 3 and 4
Discussion
Background
This year's project will be performed in Area 1 (Lenox, Oak Hill, and Texa-Tonka neighborhoods)
and Area 7 (Eliot View neighborhood) of the city's eight pavement management areas.
Information regarding this project was shared with the city council in a written report at the
Dec. 12 study session. The study session report, which includes recommendations for the
elements to include in this project, is attached. A summary of the information in the report:
• Description of the project scope
• Sidewalk segment matrix and recommendations
An overview of the recommended design for this project was presented at the Jan. 3, 2023 city
council meeting. The mayor opened the public hearing, inviting members of the public to speak
regarding the recommended design. No one from the public spoke during the public hearing.
However, there were comments brought to a council member related to recommended parking
restrictions on Edgewood Avenue. The following is a summary and staff responses to the
questions from the public hearing and from council members.
Concern about the proposed parking restrictions along Edgewood Avenue
Removing on-street parking from the west side of Edgewood Avenue was recommended by
staff after a trial period of two years during the construction of the Dakota-Edgewood bridge
and trail for the following reasons (see attached parking graphic):
• The road was narrowed from 40 feet to 29.5 feet to accommodate the multi-use trail
within the existing right of way. Vehicles parked on the west side of the road impede
turn movements of trucks into and out of adjacent properties along the east side of
Edgewood Avenue.
• Edgewood Avenue has a high percentage of trucks that access the industrial area and
require additional space to navigate the roadway.
• A review of the buildings and parcels suggests there is adequate off-street parking to
meet the needs of the current land uses.
After notifying property owners of the recommended changes, staff was contacted by the
owners of 2230 and 2238 Edgewood Avenue, that are concerned about the loss of convenient
on-street parking adjacent to their property. Prior to the Dakota- Edgewood trail bridge project,
there were approximately five parallel on-street parking stalls adjacent to each of these parcels
that were signed for two-hour parking. On-street parking has been limited to two-hour parking
since 1981 for 2230 Edgewood Avenue and since 1995 for 2238 Edgewood Avenue. Both
property owners suggested the creation of parking bays to replace the proposed loss of
parking.
Due to the feedback from the adjacent property owners, staff is suggesting no action be taken
on the parking restrictions at this time. The construction of on-street parking bays is estimated
to cost $2,000 per stall, increases impervious surface and could prohibit the installation of
sidewalk on the west side of the road in the future. Prior to recommending the installation of
City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 7a) Page 3
Title: 2023 Pavement Management Project – (4023-1000) – Wards 3 and 4
parking bays, staff would like to better understand their concerns and see if there are other
ways to address them.
Staff will bring the recommended parking changes back to council this spring after staff has
additional discussion with the affected property owners.
Financial or budget considerations
The total cost estimate for the project is $7,495,717.43. Additional information on the
breakdown of the funding can be found in the Jan. 3 public hearing report.
Operation and maintenance costs
This project creates new city infrastructure, including community sidewalks. With new
infrastructure, there will be operation and maintenance costs. Staff is recommending the
addition of 0.38 miles of community sidewalk. Annual operational efforts include snow removal
on community sidewalks. Since staff is already clearing sidewalks/ trails in these areas, it is
expected the cost to add these to our system would be minimal. Staff would add them to
existing routes.
There will be long-term costs associated with the repair of sidewalks in the future. However,
funding for concrete sidewalk repairs is included in the capital improvement plan and is
adjusted annually based on inflation and need.
Next steps
The proposed schedule for the project to facilitate construction completion in 2023 is as
follows:
Council project approval Jan. 17, 2023
Council awards construction bids March 2023
Construction May to November 2023
City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 7a) Page 4
Title: 2023 Pavement Management Project – (4023-1000) – Wards 3 and 4
Resolution No. 23-___
Resolution accepting the project report,
establishing improvement project no. 4023-1000,
approving plans and specifications and authorizing
advertisement for bids for improvement
Project No. 4023-1000
Whereas, the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park has received a report from the
Project Engineer related to the 2023 Pavement Management Program.
Now therefore be it resolved by the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota,
that:
1. The Project Report regarding Project No. 4023-1000 is hereby accepted.
2. Such improvements as proposed are necessary, cost-effective, and feasible as detailed
in the Project Report.
3. The proposed project, designated as Project No. 4023-1000, is hereby established and
ordered.
4. The following new sidewalk segments are hereby established and ordered for
construction
Number Description
Sidewalk
Classification
Recommended
at this time
1
Oak Park Village Drive – north side
(Oak Park Village Drive to Louisiana Avenue)
Community Yes
2
Oak Park Village Drive – south side
(Existing trail to parking lot entrance)
Community Yes
4
Rhode Island Avenue – south side
(28th Street to dead end)
Community Yes
6
Rhode Island Avenue – north side
(Victoria Circle to dead end)
Community Yes
5. The following sidewalk segments are not recommended for construction with this project:
Number Description
Sidewalk
Classification
Recommended
at this time
3
Oak Park Village Drive – south side
(parking lot entrance to Louisiana Avenue)
Community No
5
Rhode Island Avenue – north side
(28th Street to Victoria Circle)
Community No
6. The plans and specifications for the making of these improvements, as prepared under
the direction of the Engineering Director, or designee, are approved. The Engineering
City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 7a) Page 5
Title: 2023 Pavement Management Project – (4023-1000) – Wards 3 and 4
Director is allowed to make adjustments to these plans and specifications, such as
narrowing the width of boulevards or sidewalks, in cases where special circumstances
exist in the field, such as the location of trees, provided that these adjustments will
make a material difference in addressing any special circumstances that may exist.
7.The City Clerk shall prepare and cause to be inserted at least two weeks in the official
city newspaper and in relevant industry publications an advertisement for bids for the
making of said improvements under said-approved plans and specifications. The
advertisement shall appear not less than 10 days prior to the date and time bids will be
received electronically by the Project Manager and accompanied by a bid bond payable
to the City for five (5) percent of the amount of the bid. The electronic bids will only be
available to view after the bids are closed and the City receives the passcode from the
bidding host site.
8.The Project Manager, or designee, shall report the receipt of bids to the City Council
shortly after the opening date. The report shall include a tabulation of the bid results
and a recommendation to the City Council.
Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the city council January 17, 2023
Kim Keller, city manager Jake Spano, mayor
Attest:
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk
2023 PAVEMENT MANAGEMENT PROJECT
ATTACHMENT #1
RESIDENT FEEDBACK
PARKING RESTRICTIONS- EDGEWOOD AVENUE
City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 7a)
Title: 2023 Pavement Management Project - (4023-1000) - Wards 3 and 4 Page 6
1
Aaron Wiesen
Subject:RE: Parking on Edgewood
‐‐‐‐‐Original Message‐‐‐‐‐
From:
Sent: Tuesday, January 3, 2023 1:52 PM
To: Jack Sullivan <JSullivan@stlouisparkmn.gov>
Subject: Parking on Edgewood
Dear Mr Sullivan,
I am the property owner of 2238‐40 Edgewood. I attended at least one planning meeting for the bridge design and
street alterations related to the Dakota bridge. I asked only one question and that was will our street parking be
eliminated with this project. I was told that our parking would remain. Had I been told otherwise at the time I would
have worked to maintain our parking. Many of us on the west side of the street have very limited parking to the front of
our buildings and this is very valuable to us. I find the restriction of road width to be far less valuable to the very limited
bike and road traffic to the south than is parking as a community asset. Please reconsider the parking restriction.
Sincerely,
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 7a)
Title: 2023 Pavement Management Project - (4023-1000) - Wards 3 and 4 Page 7
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2023 Pavement Management - Staff Recommendations
Street rehabilitation
Watermain replacement and street rehabilitation
Existing sidewalks
Existing trails
Sidewalk recommended
Sidewalk not recommended
Date: 12/2/2022
City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 7a)
Title: 2023 Pavement Management Project - (4023-1000) - Wards 3 and 4 Page 8
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Date: 12/16/2022
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City council meeting of January 17, 2023 (Item No. 7a)
Title: 2023 Pavement Management Project - (4023-1000) - Wards 3 and 4 Page 9