HomeMy WebLinkAbout2003/09/02 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - City Council - RegularAGENDA SUMMARY
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
September 2, 2003
7:30 p.m.
7:25 p.m. EDA Meeting - Council Chambers
1. Call to Order
a. Pledge of Allegiance
b. Roll Call
2. Presentations - None
3. Approval of Minutes
a. City Council minutes of August 18, 2003
b. City Council Study Session minutes of August 10, 2003
c. City Council Study Session minutes of August 25, 2003
Action: Corrections/amendments to minutes - Minutes approved as presented
4. Approval of Agenda and Items on Consent Calendar
NOTE: The Consent Calendar lists those items of business which are considered to be routine and/or which need
no discussion. Consent items are acted upon by one motion. If discussion is desired by either a Councilmember or a
member of the audience, that item may be moved to an appropriate section of the regular agenda for discussion.
Action: Motion to approve the agenda as presented and to approve items listed on
the consent calendar
(Alternatively: Motion to add or remove items from the agenda, motion to move items
from consent calendar to regular agenda for discussion and to approve those items
remaining on the consent calendar).
5. Boards and Commissions
6. Public Hearings
7. Requests, Petitions, and Communications from the Public - None
8. Resolutions, Ordinances, Motions
8a. Resolution authorizing an HRA levy 090203 - 8a - City HRA levy.doc
Council authorization of HRA levy as approved on EDA agenda
Recommended
Action:
Adopt Resolution setting HRA levy for 2004
8b. Approve preliminary 2004 property tax levy, budget for the 2004 fiscal year,
revisions to the 2003 adopted budget, and set Public Hearing date for on proposed
budget and property tax levy document
Resolution approving the preliminary property tax levy and budget is required by Truth
in Taxation legislation. Information contained in the resolution will appear on the
individual tax notices prepared by the County.
Recommended
Action:
Motion to adopt the Resolution establishing the preliminary tax levy
and budget for 2004, approves revisions to the 2003 adopted budget
and sets public hearing date for proposed budget and property tax levy.
8c. 2nd Reading of an Ordinance amending Chapter 22 of the St. Louis Park Code of
Ordinances relating to Solid Waste Management, creating standards for collection
of refuse/garbage, recycling, and yard waste as well as for composting for
residential properties. document
Recommended
Action:
Motion to Approve Second Reading of Proposed Amendments to
Chapter 22 of St. Louis Park Ordinance Code relating to Solid Waste
Management, creating standards for collection of refuse/garbage,
recycling, yard waste, and composting, adopt Ordinance, approve
summary, and authorize publication.
8d. Request of the Edgewood Investors for a Conditional Use Permit for the
excavation of approximately 13,000 cubic yards of contaminated soil and
processing waste and backfill of approximately 13,000 cubic yards of imported soil
on Industrial Property located at 2401 Edgewood Ave. document
Case No. 03-47-CUP, 2401 Edgewood Ave
Recommended
Action:
Motion to adopt a Resolution approving the Conditional Use Permit
subject to conditions listed in the resolution.
8e. Request of SLP Motors, LLC for a Final PUD to redevelop the Win Stephen
Buick Pontiac property for Westside Volkswagen 2370 and 2440 State Highway
100 S. document
Case Nos. 03-14-PUD, 2370 and 2440 St Hwy 100
Final PUD to allow the redevelopment of an automobile dealership, including
replacing the building at 2370 TH 100, remodel the building at 2440 TH 100 and add a
parking ramp at 2440 TH 100.
Recommended
Action:
Motion to adopt Resolution approving Final PUD subject to the
conditions in the resolution.
8f. Request of Methodist Hospital for a Preliminary PUD to allow a phased
expansion, 6700 Excelsior Blvd. document
Case No 03-44-PUD, 6700 Excelsior Blvd.
Recommended
Action:
Motion to adopt a Resolution approving the Preliminary PUD,
subject to the conditions included in the resolution.
8g. Resolution establishing city policy regarding dangerous weapons on city property
and Resolution requesting legislature to amend the MN Personal Protection Act.
document
Recommended
Action:
1. Motion to adopt Resolution relating to public safety by
prohibiting dangerous weapons on city property.
2. Motion to adopt Resolution supporting an amendment to the
2003 Minnesota Personal Protection Act.
9. Communications
10. Adjournment
Auxiliary aids for individuals with disabilities are available upon request. To make
arrangements, please call the Administration Department) at 952/924-2525 (TDD
952/924-2518) at least 96 hours in advance of meeting.
ST. LOUIS PARK CITY COUNCIL
MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 2, 2003
SECTION 4: CONSENT CALENDAR
NOTE: The Consent Calendar lists those items of business which are considered to be routine and/or which need
no discussion. Consent items are acted upon by one motion. If discussion is desired by either a Councilmember or a
member of the audience, that item may be moved to an appropriate section of the regular agenda for discussion.
4a. Motion to approve second reading and adopt an ordinance amending St. Louis Park
Ordinance Code (Zoning) relating to creating consistency, clarifying and amending
standards for permanent, temporary and canopy/awning signs, sign permitting
requirements, and approved sign plans; approve summary ordinance and authorize
publication. Case Nos. 03-24-ZA document
4b. Motion to accept withdrawal of Carlson Restaurants Worldwide application for a
variance to the sign ordinance to increase the maximum allowable square footage of
signage and number of pylon signs for the property. document
4c.
Motion to approve Resolution accepting work on Contract sealcoating for Allied
Blacktop City Project No. 03-08, Contract No. 76-03 document
4d. Motion to authorize execution of a Contract with Calgon Carbon Corporation for the
purchase of Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) in the amount of $52,400. document
4e. Motion to approve Resolution requesting cooperation from Hennepin County in
researching feasibility of county operated Dispatch Services for the City of St. Louis
Park document
4f. Motion to approve Stormwater Facility Maintenance Agreement with the Minnehaha
Creek Watershed District to sweep ten (10) local streets in the Spring and Fall of each
year. document
4g. Motion to accept for filing Planning Commission Minutes of August 6, 2003 document
4h. Motion to accept for filing Vendor Claims of 8/27/03 (Supplement)
AGENDA SUPPLEMENT
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
September 2, 2003
Items contained in this section are those items
which are not yet available in electronic format
and which are identified in the individual
reports by inclusion of the word “Supplement”.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 3a - CC Minutes 8-18-03
Page 1 of 11
UNOFFICIAL MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
August 18, 2003
1. Call to Order
Mayor Jacobs called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m.
The following Councilmembers were present at roll call: John Basill, Jim Brimeyer, Paul
Omodt, Susan Sanger, Sue Santa, Sally Velick, and Mayor Jeff Jacobs.
Also present were the Acting City Manager and Community Development Director (Mr.
Harmening); City Attorney (Ms. McDowell-Poehler); Planning and Zoning Supervisor
(Ms. Jeremiah); Assistant Zoning Administrator (Mr. Morrison); Director of Public
Works (Mr. Rardin); City Engineer (Ms. Hagen); Director of Finance (Ms. McGann);
Director of Inspections (Mr. Hoffman); Environmental Health Official (Mr. Camilon);
Public Works Coordinator (Mr. Merkley); Public Works Administration Specialist (Ms.
Hellekson); and Recording Secretary (Ms. Samson).
2. Presentations: None
3. Approval of Minutes
3a. City Council Minutes of August 4, 2003
The minutes were approved as presented with the following changes:
Councilmember Velick: Item 8g, page 8, paragraph 5, at the end of the paragraph add:
Councilmember Velick thinks the testing and posting would be misleading
because it would give the public the wrong idea that second-hand smoke at lower
levels would be safe.
Councilmember Sanger: Item 8g, page 6, paragraph 2, at the end of the paragraph add:
Ms. Stark said the proposed posting of test results would mislead the public about
the dangers of second-hand smoke.
Councilmember Sanger: Item 8g, page 6, paragraph 3, at the end of the paragraph add:
Ms. Carmona indicated opposition to the proposed testing and posting of nicotine
levels.
Councilmember Sanger: Item 8g, page 6, paragraph 5, at the end of the paragraph add:
Ms. Birnbaum indicated opposition to the proposed testing and posting of nicotine
levels.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 3a - CC Minutes 8-18-03
Page 2 of 11
Councilmember Sanger: Item 8g, page 7, paragraph 7, at the end of the paragraph add:
Ms. Walder discussed the problem of second-hand smoke to wait staff at
restaurants.
Councilmember Sanger: Item 8g, page 8, paragraph 2, at the end of the paragraph add
the following to the last sentence: and which provide no evidence of the
effectiveness of the testing proposal.
Councilmember Sanger: Item 8g, page 8, paragraph 6, at the end of the paragraph add:
Councilmember Sanger pointed out that while the Council has typically supported
recommendations of community task forces, Council has not always done so, such
as the proposal from this task force for financial incentives to restaurants or a
portion of the recommendations of the Elmwood task force.
Councilmember Omodt: Item 8g, page 8, between paragraphs 6 and 7, add the following
new paragraph: Councilmember Omodt strongly recommended that this item be
returned to a Study Session because there are flaws in the language of the
ordinance that are not addressed.
3b. City Council Study Session minutes of July 28, 2003
The minutes were approved as presented with the following changes:
Councilmember Basill: Item 3, page 3, paragraph 4, at the beginning of the first sentence
add: Some of the
Councilmember Sanger: Item 2, page 2, paragraph 3, add the following to the last
sentence: and that the City would not have potential liability.
Councilmember Sanger: Item 3, page 3, paragraph 4, add the following at the end of the
paragraph: He was informed by Staff that a mixed-use site requires multiple
stories. Council indicated they do not support a one-story building.
4. Approval of Agenda and Items on Consent Calendar
NOTE: The Consent Calendar lists those items of business which are considered to be routine and/or which need
no discussion. Consent items are acted upon by one motion. If discussion is desired by either a Councilmember or a
member of the audience, that item may be moved to an appropriate section of the regular agenda for discussion.
4a Removed from Consent Calendar to Regular Agenda as Item 8f.
4b Designate Rehrig Pacific, Inc. as the lowest responsible bidder and authorize execution of
a contract with the firm in the amount of $454,892.00 for refuse cart purchase.
4c Approve Second Reading of Ordinance No. 2247-03 regarding zoning map amendment
to change the zoning designation from IG –General Industrial and IP – Industrial Park to
R4—Multi Family Residential, RC—Multi Family Residential, and MX—Mixed Use for
properties located at 3630 Wooddale Ave, 3601 Wooddale Avenue, 5810 37th Street W.,
5957 37th Street W., 5951 37th Street W., 5912 Oxford Street, 5916 Oxford Street, 5920
Oxford Street, 5926 Oxford Street subject to approval of the amendments to change the
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 3a - CC Minutes 8-18-03
Page 3 of 11
Comprehensive Plan land use designations from Industrial to Office, Medium Density
Residential, Park, and Commercial Mixed Use by the Metropolitan Council, approve
summary Ordinance and authorize publication.
4d Approve Second Reading of Ordinance No. 2248-03 amendmening the St. Louis Park
Ordinance Code (Zoning) relating to creating consistency in standards relative to
setbacks from residential districts, clarifying parking standards for restaurants in
shopping centers, correcting retail and shopping center descriptions and approval
categories, requiring conditional use permits for small schools in commercial districts,
and clarifying motor vehicles sales accessory uses, approve summary and authorize
publication.
4e Motion to adopt Resolution No. 03-101 rescinding parking restrictions on the south side
of W. 14th Street from Kentucky Avenue to a point 140 feet west and adopt Resolution
No. 03-106 authorizing the installation of permit parking along the south side of W. 14th
Street from Kentucky Avenue to a point 140 feet west.
4f Designate O’Malley Construction the lowest responsible bidder and authorize execution
of a contract with the firm in the amount of $268,936.35 for the 2003 Sidewalk
Improvement Project – City Project No. 03-01A & 03-02A
4g Accept for filing the Charter Commission Minutes of May 14, 2003
4h Accept for filing the Human Rights Commission Minutes of May 21, 2003
4i Accept for filing the Planning Commission Minutes of July 16,2003
4j Accept for filing the Housing Authority Minutes of July 9, 2003
4k Accept for filing the Vendor Claims (Supplement)
A motion was made by Councilmember Sanger that Item 4a be moved from the Consent
Agenda to the Regular Agenda as Item 8f.
Councilmember Omodt said Council was told by Staff that the second-hand smoke
ordinance would return as a Regular Agenda item. Councilmember Omodt continued:
When the Council packets were received on Thursday night, the second-hand smoke item
was not listed on the Regular Agenda. If we are going to make these changes and forget
to tell the Council, who requested it, I think to maintain the trust of the situation, we need
to at least make a phone call or let people know so that it is not a surprise and we don’t
think something is getting ram-rodded on us.
Councilmember Velick seconded Councilmember Sanger’s motion.
It was moved by Councilmember Velick, seconded by Councilmember Sanger, to approve
the Agenda and items listed on the Consent Calendar as amended.
The motion passed 7-0.
5. Boards and Commissions: None
6. Public Hearings: None
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 3a - CC Minutes 8-18-03
Page 4 of 11
7. Requests, Petitions, and Communications from the Public: None
8. Resolutions, Ordinances, Motions
8a. Resolution Setting Public Hearing for Park Nicollet Health Services Private
Activity Revenue Bonds and Approving Public Hearing Notice
Resolution No. 03-102
Finance Director Jean McGann presented a Staff report regarding the request of Park
Nicollet Health Services. They are requesting to refund approximately $200 million of
outstanding private activity revenue bonds and issue approximately $80 million in new
debt to construct a heart and vascular center.
Councilmember Basill said as this item comes forward to a public hearing, we want to be
sure that it is conditioned upon the final PUD being approved. Ms. McGann said she is
aware of that and with the resolution that will be in place for the September 15, 2003
meeting, Staff will include all of that language to stipulate that no dollars, with the
exception of the bond issue costs, be released until all of the conditions are met.
It was moved by Councilmember Basill, seconded by Councilmember Sanger, to approve
Resolution No. 03-102 setting a public hearing for September 15, 2003 for Park Nicollet
Health Services Private Activity Revenue Bonds and to approve the public hearing
notice.
The motion passed 7-0.
8b. First Reading of an Ordinance amending Chapter 22 of the St. Louis Park
Code of Ordinances relating to Solid Waste Management, creating standards
for collection of refuse/garbage, recycling, and yard waste as well as for
composting for residential properties
Public Works Coordinator Scott Merkley presented a report, and he was accompanied by
Sarah Hellekson, Public Works Administration Specialist. Mr. Merkley reported that a
main concern among residents is the requirement that the placement of carts during non-
collection periods not be visible from the street or alley.
Councilmember Santa said from her observations in Ward 3, some residents would be
criminalized just because the rules have changed, and she thinks the ordinance does not
reflect the Council’s intent. Councilmember Santa would like to propose that the
language be changed to: Not in the front yard or side yard but in the backyard;
somewhere screened from public view. Mayor Jacobs agreed.
Councilmember Sanger agreed, and she is also concerned about the requirement that carts
not be visible after 7:00 p.m. She said, sometimes the vendor is late in pick up and may
have to return the next day, and it would make no sense for a resident to haul garbage to
their home and put it out again. Councilmember Sanger said before second reading, she
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 3a - CC Minutes 8-18-03
Page 5 of 11
would like to have the ordinance tweaked to say it is acceptable for carts to be on the
street overnight—if one is waiting due to a missed or delayed pick up.
Councilmember Omodt shares the same concerns as Councilmembers Sanger and Santa
regarding screening. He would like to have screening defined so that it is consistent with
the City’s ornamental feature and fence laws and everything else; it is not currently
addressed in the proposed Ordinance Code text amendments.
Acting City Manager Tom Harmening summarized that the Council is suggesting Staff
look at the storage issue and state a minimum setback to the side property line.
Councilmember Omodt added that the City must take care to ask what people use as
screening. Councilmember Sanger added that perhaps people should have alternatives
because some yards have irregular shapes.
Councilmember Basill is concerned that some people may have no area in which to put
the garbage, therefore, the garbage must go outside; but he encourages residents to put
garbage away. Councilmember Basill asked about how to discard or care for old garbage
cans. Mr. Merkley said if residents have yard waste stickers, the old cans may be used
for yard waste, otherwise, Waste Management will dispose of the old cans at no charge to
the residents. Mr. Merkley said information will be sent to residents by Staff just prior to
the new cart distribution.
It was moved by Councilmember Santa, seconded by Councilmember Velick, to approve
First Reading of proposed Ordinance Code text amendments related to Solid Waste
Management and set Second Reading for September 2, 2003.
The motion passed 7-0.
8c. City Engineer’s Report: Sidewalk and Lighting Improvement Project - Park
Commons Drive, City Project No. 03-11.
Resolution No.’s 03-104 and 03-105
City Engineer Maria Hagen presented a report regarding the construction of new
sidewalk on the north side of Park Commons Drive in accordance with the City’s
sidewalk, trails, and bikeway plan. Ms. Hagen said the bid tab report would return on
October 6, 2003 to award a contract.
It was moved by Councilmember Basill, seconded by Councilmember Omodt, to adopt
Resolution No. 03-104 approving plans and specifications and authorizing advertisement
for bids for construction of concrete sidewalk and installation of pedestrian lighting and
Resolution No. 03-105 authorizing parking restrictions on Park Commons Drive.
The motion passed 7-0.
8d. Proposed Amendments to St. Louis Park Ordinance Code (Zoning) relating
to creating consistency, clarifying and amending standards for permanent,
temporary and canopy/awning signs, sign permitting requirements, and
approved sign plans. Case Nos. 03-24-ZA
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 3a - CC Minutes 8-18-03
Page 6 of 11
Assistant Zoning Administrator Gary Morrison presented a Staff report, and he was
accompanied by Planning and Zoning Supervisor Janet Jeremiah.
Councilmember Sanger is concerned about setback requirements for awnings and
canopies, and Mr. Morrison said setback requirements are spelled out elsewhere in the
ordinance. Councilmember Sanger responded that she hopes there will be no disputes
over this.
Councilmember Sanger is concerned about signs being placed on narrow sidewalks
because the signs could be a safety hazard, and she asked about a provision governing
sign placement. Mr. Morrison said it is already stated in the ordinance.
Councilmember Velick asked if enforcement will be more consistent due to an improved
ordinance. Mr. Morrison said he is hopeful that that will be the case.
It was moved by Councilmember Velick, seconded by Councilmember Santa, to approve
1st reading of an Ordinance amending Section 36-82 (Temporary Use Ordinance) and
Section 36-362 (Sign Ordinance) and set second reading for September 2nd City Council
meeting.
The motion passed 7-0.
8e. Request by RSP Architects on behalf of Carlson Restaurants Worldwide for
major amendment to the existing special permit for exterior modifications to
TGI Friday's with a variance to the sign ordinance to increase the maximum
allowable square footage of signage and number of pylon signs for the
property. Case Nos. 03-26-CUP and 03-41-VAR 5875 Wayzata Blvd
(Southeast corner of Wayzata Blvd and Zarthan Ave S. The parcel is also
the Northeast corner of Zarthan Ave and 16th Street west)
Resolution No. 03-103
Mr. Morrison presented a Staff report. He reported that there are two Special Permits on
this property, and the recommendation from Staff is to merge the two Special Permits.
Mr. Morrison said the office building has 631 square feet of signage, which is over the
maximum allowed of 500 square feet, and TGI Friday currently has 107 square feet for a
total of 739 square feet for the entire property. Mr. Morrison stated that the request is to
allow TGI Friday to increase its signage to 146 square feet from 107 square feet.
Councilmember Sanger supports granting amendments to the Special Permit, however,
no criteria for the granting of a variance for signage have been met, and there is no
hardship. She will make a motion to direct Staff to prepare a resolution for denial of any
variance. Councilmember Sanger said, if a variance were granted at this time, she does
not know how the City would get the property owner to comply at a later date.
It was moved by Councilmember Sanger, seconded by Councilmember Velick, to adopt
Resolution No. 03-103 approving the Major Amendment to the existing Special Permit
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 3a - CC Minutes 8-18-03
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for exterior modifications to the existing TGI Friday's Restaurant subject to the
conditions in the resolution.
The motion passed 7-0.
It was moved by Councilmember Sanger, seconded by Councilmember Santa, to direct
staff to prepare a resolution of denial of the variance based upon staff's recommendation.
Before taking a vote on the second motion, Mayor Jacobs invited any interested person to
speak. Chuck Friedberg, Senior Associate from RSP Architects, said TGI Friday is
talking to the property owner about subdividing the property. Mr. Friedberg said, if a
subdivision took place, TGI Friday would be under its signage maximum. He said TGI
Friday is relinquishing one pylon sign in order to accommodate signage on the building.
Councilmember Brimeyer suggested the Applicant exercise its leverage.
Councilmember Omodt shares Councilmember Sanger’s concerns, and he would vote to
deny the variance.
Mr. Friedberg stated that the Council has an agreement from the owner of TGI Friday
that he will work out an agreement within 60 days.
Councilmember Brimeyer commented that as a condition of a subdivision, both new lots
would have to comply with the sign ordinance.
Councilmember Basill is concerned that if the variance is denied, a building and a
business could be without signage for two years but it doesn’t make sense to not allow
the same amount of signage until the process is subdivided. He said perhaps the answer
would be to defer the variance so that the Applicant can work on a subdivision versus
tying their hands for two years.
Councilmember Santa commented that the Applicant does not meet the criteria for a
hardship but she would favor Councilmember Brimeyer’s suggestion to defer the
variance.
Mayor Jacobs asked if the variance can be deferred. Ms. Jeremiah said the City has an
additional 60 days to extend consideration of the variance, and after that the Applicant’s
written consent would be needed; Ms. Jeremiah said the first 60 days is nearly expired.
Councilmember Brimeyer would like to move to defer for 60 days, however, a motion is
pending. So, in that case, Councilmember Brimeyer anticipates when the resolution to
deny a variance returns to Council probably on September 2nd, he will move to defer for
60 days.
The motion passed 7-0.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 3a - CC Minutes 8-18-03
Page 8 of 11
Councilmember Sanger requested training for the Planning Commissioners, especially
new members, about what a variance is and isn’t so that, hopefully, we can avoid these
types of situations again.
8f Second-hand Smoke Ordinance
This is the Consent Agenda Item 4a that Councilmember Sanger requested be moved to
the Regular Agenda.
Ann Deshler, Oncology Registered Nurse from Park Nicollet, served on the task force as
Dr. Hanson’s backup and medical representative. Ms. Deshler said she has been the
Director of the Community Cancer Research Program in St. Louis Park for the past 20
years. She does not feel comfortable with the task force recommendation to post and test
nicotine levels and, subsequently, she and Dr. Hanson submitted a Minority Report some
time ago. Ms. Deshler suggested the following changes be made: 1) The EPA materials
used are more than 10 years old and grossly understate the dangers of second-hand
smoke; those materials should not be used; 2) more information should be included in the
brochure that has been drafted by the City; and 3) Section 1B6 should state: “explaining
the dangers of second-hand smoke and the disclosure.”
Director of Inspections Brian Hoffman said the most recent EPA information was used,
and the informational materials required by the ordinance are subject to revision and
additional editing.
Lollie Eidsness, 2720 Ottawa Avenue South, said she is totally opposed to smoking,
however, she would prefer the Council do nothing than pass the ordinance because it is a
waste of taxpayers’ money. Ms. Eidsness asked: What will the testing really do? What
does the sign tell her that would be of any value when she enters a restaurant? She said,
absolutely nothing. Ms. Eidsness favors educating the public but who does not know the
dangers of smoking and second-hand smoke.
Janel Brakke, 2918 Utica Avenue South, said she supports the City’s effort to educate the
community, however, the proposed signs may be confusing and misleading. Ms. Brakke
recommends passing a public health policy and educate the community by disregarding
the posting of nicotine levels and post signs that state the facts, which are: Second-hand
smoke is harmful; there is no safe level, and this establishment has second-hand smoke
present. She supports a 100% smoke-free policy.
Jeremy Hanson, Minnesota Smoke-Free Coalition, 1019 Dayton Avenue, expressed his
organization’s continued disappointment with the City’s attempt to address the important
issue of second-hand smoke with this failed ordinance. Mr. Hanson requested the
Council work with health organizations to find a positive solution and a compromise to
this issue. He said the ordinance will not protect individuals from exposure to second-
hand smoke, and this ordinance is not based on scientific methodology nor will it offer
meaningful information about second-hand smoke; and do remove the nicotine testing
procedure in this ordinance. Mr. Hanson said the ordinance does not meet the
community support test. His organization opposes the nicotine testing and disclosure
plan but they do support educational materials based on evidence and best practice. The
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
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Minnesota Smoke-Free Coalition urges Council to oppose this ordinance or, at lease,
remove the risky nicotine testing and disclosure sections.
Zelda Rae Walder, 3025 Ottawa Avenue South, said her restaurant coworkers and friends
expressed their appreciation to her for speaking up about this issue. Ms. Walder asked
Council to vote for no smoking.
Councilmember Velick said she respects the task force and its work.
It was moved by Councilmember Velick, seconded by Councilmember Sanger, to table the
entire proposal.
The motion failed 3-4. (Councilmembers Brimeyer, Basill, and Santa and Mayor Jacobs
opposed).
Councilmember Sanger reported a factual error in the Staff report. She said the following
restaurants are smoke-free: Taste of India, Thando Restaurant, and Vescio’s.
Councilmember Sanger’s proposal would be to consider amending the ordinance to say
that any restaurant that is not smoke-free by January 1, 2004 would have to pay a
proportionate share of the costs upfront for the testing equipment. She said the City
should spend money on a program toward the education of children in St. Louis Park as
to the dangers of second-hand smoke as opposed to the costs associated with the
implementation of this ordinance.
Councilmember Omodt echoed Councilmembers Sanger and Velick’s comments. He
said passing this ordinance will lead to bad legislation and bad ordinance.
Councilmember Omodt would like to offer some amendments, and he said the testing
does nothing except tax some businesses. It would be better, he said, to educate people,
which would be a worthy goal. The testing is invalid. Councilmember Omodt said it
would be better to return this item to a Study Session. One of his amendments would
address budget concerns.
Mr. Hoffman explained the process of pursuing grants, and who would bear the
responsibility for equipment expense.
Councilmember Velick said this is not good public policy, and it should return to a Study
Session.
It was moved by Councilmember Omodt to return this item to a Study Session; and he
listed his amendments: scrap the testing program and do an education program; there is
no consistency on where the signs go; unknown cost and no set budget; in regard to air
handling systems, stand alone building versus multi-tenant buildings are not addressed;
put in a sunset clause, i.e., if it isn’t working within two years, it will be scraped; and a
clause that all educational materials be reviewed by the Council or task force.
Councilmember Brimeyer said, as a member of the task force, he is disappointed with the
medical community because he relied heavily on them; and the American Cancer Society
was invited to the table and, although he did not attend every meeting, he did not see
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
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Page 10 of 11
American Cancer Society representatives at the meetings. Councilmember Brimeyer said
the City should require restaurants to say: “Full smoking or limited second-hand smoke,
where would you like to sit?” Now, that, he said, would be silly but that is what this is all
about. He inquired of Council, if signage is the issue, what would you think to: Adopt
the ordinance with the testing in place but no signs are to be posted until after 12 months
of testing, study, and analyses to see how we might properly notify the customers who
use the restaurants?
Councilmember Sanger seconded the motion to defer this item to a Study Session.
Councilmember Basill said he thinks Council has looked at this issue as objectively as it
can. He respects the work of the smoking task force.
Mayor Jacobs said there were about 20 people on the task force. Mayor Jacobs described
the task force as being composed of four or five representatives of restaurants that
allowed smoking; one restaurant representative had a no-smoking restaurant, and that
representative was suggested to Mayor Jacobs by the American Cancer Society; three
representatives were placed on the task force by the American Cancer Society, and they
rarely showed up; two, three or four who were community members with no particular
vested interest in it; and two high school students. Mayor Jacobs said to say the task
force was 6-2 is inaccurate, and testing was debated for two full months. Mayor Jacobs
said he attended every meeting for ten full months, and he mostly listened.
The motion to return this item to a Study Session failed 3-4. (Councilmembers Brimeyer,
Basill, and Santa and Mayor Jacobs opposed).
Councilmember Santa said calls she has received from residents have primarily expressed
support for the ordinance. She said some of the realities obscured in this issue is that
smoking is legal in Minnesota, and smoking is a legal behavior in restaurants that are
posted for smoking. Councilmember Santa thinks the level of awareness has been
increased. From the beginning, Councilmember Santa had suggested the Council do
nothing, however, Mayor Jacobs and Councilmember Sanger had suggested a total
smoking ban. The City has come up with a way to address smoking in restaurants and
the issue of second-hand smoke in restaurants. Councilmember Santa thinks it has value
and merit.
It was moved by Councilmember Santa, seconded by Councilmember Brimeyer, to
approve second reading of Ordinance No. 2246-03 amending Section 8-258 regarding
second-hand smoke in restaurants.
Councilmember Omodt said it is an exercise of raw power, a number of issues are on the
table as well as an imperfect resolution and, yet, some want to continue to do it. It is not
right, some legitimate issues need clarification, need to be finessed, and this needs to
make sense for everybody.
The motion passed 4-3. (Councilmembers Omodt, Sanger, and Velick opposed).
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 3a - CC Minutes 8-18-03
Page 11 of 11
Mayor Jacobs said he would like to encourage more restaurants to become smoke-free, to
get people educated about the numerous dangers of second-hand smoke, and he would
like to work with the healthcare community to get the word out.
9. Communications
Mayor Jacobs stated a reminder that a sprinkling ban is in effect.
10. Adjournment
Mayor Jacobs adjourned the meeting at 9:41 p.m.
___________________________________ __________________________________
City Clerk Mayor
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 3b - SS Minutes 8-10-03
Page 1 of 2
UNOFFICIAL MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION
August 10, 2003
The meeting convened at 7:00 p.m.
Present at the meeting were Councilmembers John Basill, Paul Omodt, Susan Sanger, Sue Santa,
Sally Velick, and Mayor Jeff Jacobs.
Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Meyer), Economic Development Director (Mr. Harmening);
Economic Development Coordinator (Mr. Hunt); EDA Attorney (Mr. Bubul) and City Clerk
(Ms. Reichert).
1. Presentation by District 3 County Commissioner Gail Dorfman
Commissioner Dorfman had requested to meet with the council to discuss various issues of
concern to the city and the county. Issues addressed were related to transportation, transit
oriented development; housing and affordable/supportive housing issues; social services cuts;
and the possibility of placing a traffic control signal on Minnetonka Blvd near Lenox
Community Center.
Council thanked Commissioner Dorfman for her continuing efforts to maintain good
communication between the city and the county.
2. Proposed Purchase Agreement with Anderson Builders
Mr. Hunt presented an update to council on the status of an agreement with Anderson Builders
to purchase property at 3501 Louisiana Ave S. Mr. Hunt informed the council that the purchase
agreement would be presented at the regular meeting of August 18th and that soon after, the
planning commission and council would be asked to consider the preliminary plat for the
Anderson and Park Tavern properties as well as an alley vacation between the Anderson and
Reddy Rents properties. The EDA would also act in the future on a purchase agreement for
adjacent property by Park Tavern Lounge and Lanes.
3. Park Nicollet Health Services Issuance of Private Activity Revenue Bonds
Mr. Harmening briefed council on upcoming actions related to the bond issuance. He also
informed the council that the bonds would be withheld from sale until after preliminary PUD
approval. Council was supportive of the bond sale and agreed with the proposed order of events
related to approvals.
4. Snow Ordinance Revisions
Mr. Mark Hanson, newly hired as Public Works Operations Superintendent, was introduced to
the council.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 3b - SS Minutes 8-10-03
Page 2 of 2
Mr. Hanson presented the proposed changes to the ordinance which were intended to enhance
the ability of public works to complete plowing in the neighborhoods and to enable the Police
Department to more efficiently issue citations for violations to the snow emergency ordinance.
Proposed changes are to reduce the trigger for declaring a snow emergency from 2 inches to 3
inches; to change the time persons must remove vehicles from the streets from between the hours
of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to a 24-hour time period and to move enforcement from persons currently
tagging violators to an enhanced Police Department program.
Council questioned whether residents would move cars before retiring for the night if 3” of snow
was predicted. Mr. Hanson responded that many communities have similar provisions and that it
becomes the cultural norm.
Councilmember Santa asked if flexibility would be shown in cases where significant hardship
could be demonstrated. Chief Luse responded that discretion on a case-by-case basis would
continue to be exercised as it is with the current ordinance.
Council directed staff to move forward with proposed ordinance changes and a related citizen
education program.
5. Communications
Councilmember Sanger expressed disappointment that the draft proposed weapons ordinance
prepared by the City Attorney did not contain provisions regarding weapons other than pistols.
She did not believe the city attorney was following clear direction which had been given by the
council. Mr. Meyer stated that he was unclear as to Mr. Scott’s reasons for drafting the
ordinance as presented, but that Mr. Scott would be available for discussion on the issue at an
upcoming study session.
Councilmember Sanger also requested that Representative Jim Rhodes be contacted to discuss
the status of Hwy 100 and why it was not listed on a recent list published by MNDot. Mr. Meyer
agreed to follow up with Representative Rhodes.
Councilmember Santa commended the work of Parks and Recreation Director Cindy Walsh in
her preparation of a memo describing proposed park improvements. Mr. Meyer agreed to pass
Councilmember Santa’s remarks on to Ms. Walsh.
7. Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:52 p.m.
City Clerk Mayor
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 3c - SS Minutes 8-25-03
Page 1 of 1
UNOFFICIAL MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL STUDY SESSION
August 10, 2003
The meeting convened at 7:00 p.m.
Present at the meeting were Councilmembers John Basill, Paul Omodt, Susan Sanger, Sue Santa,
Sally Velick, and Mayor Jeff Jacobs.
Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Meyer), City Attorney (Mr. Scott); Organizational
Development Coordinator (Ms. Gothberg); Police Chief (Mr. Luse); Police Captain (Mr. Ortner)
and City Clerk (Ms. Reichert).
1. Dangerous Weapons on City Property
City Attorney, Tom Scott, was present at the meeting and distributed a report summarizing
actions taken by cities and counties in response to the Legislature’s changes to the Personal
Protection Act.
Council discussed options available to them and opted for a resolution which would allow the
council to regulate the use of city property by disallowing dangerous weapons. Council asked
that the resolution include provisions directing staff to develop appropriate administrative
procedures.
Council also directed staff to prepare a second resolution requesting the State Legislature to
amend the Minnesota Personal Protection Act of 2003 to clarify that the cities do have the
authority under statute to provide for reasonable rules governing conduct on City property.
2. Communications
Council asked questions regarding the written report on the solid waste ordinance which had
been presented on the evening’s agenda. After discussion, council directed staff to modify the
solid waste ordinance to add a 4 foot setback from the property line. This provision had been
included at first reading, but removed from the draft ordinance council had received with the
written report. Mr. Meyer stated that he would work with staff to present the ordinance at
second reading with the 4 ft. setback provision.
3. Organizational Development Session
OD Coordinator, Bridget Gothberg, led the council in discussion about the group dynamics of
the council.
7. Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:20 p.m.
City Clerk Mayor
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4a - 2nd reading Signage amendmnt
Page 1 of 20
4a. Motion to approve second reading and adopt an ordinance amending St. Louis
Park Ordinance Code (Zoning) relating to creating consistency, clarifying and
amending standards for permanent, temporary and canopy/awning signs, sign
permitting requirements, and approved sign plans; approve summary ordinance
and authorize publication.
Case Nos. 03-24-ZA
Purpose
In the process of administering the zoning code, staff is required to analyze many diverse land
use applications and answer numerous questions. During this process, issues arise where some
areas of the code seem inconsistent or ambiguous. Whenever these issues arise, staff makes an
effort to rectify or simplify the code language. The proposed code amendments deal with the
temporary use ordinance and sign ordinance to clarify standards and simplify and unify language
relating to signs.
Background
On August 18, 2003, the City Council approved first reading of the attached ordinance on a 7-0
vote. The amendments are designed to provide consistency and to clarify standards for
permanent, temporary and canopy/awning signs, sign permitting requirements, and approved
sign plans.
On June 18, 2003, the Planning Commission opened a public hearing, and upon recommendation
of staff, continued the hearing to the July 2nd meeting for consideration. No one from the public
was in the audience of the July 2nd meeting to speak about the proposed ordinance, and the
Planning Commission recommended approval on a vote of 5-0.
Staff was directed by the Planning Commission to inquire with the City Attorney regarding how
conceal and carry signs should be treated. The attorney's response is that the state statute does
not specify size of sign or placement of sign, and the city should treat the sign as any other sign
located on the property or in a doorway.
Proposed Ordinance
The proposed ordinance addresses the following:
§ Corrects a typographical error.
§ A provision was added to clarify that signage pertaining to temporary uses are considered as
temporary signage under the sign code, and the appropriate provisions apply.
§ Addresses how signage is treated in PUDs.
§ Clarifies treatment of signage on awnings and canopies.
§ Reorganizes provisions so categories such as types of signs and yard requirements are
grouped in one section.
§ Clarifies what signs are considered to be temporary signage as opposed to permanent
signage.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4a - 2nd reading Signage amendmnt
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§ Clarifies wall signage standards as applied to blade signs.
§ Clarifies temporary sign standards as applied to pedestrian oriented signage.
§ Treats all non-conforming signs consistently.
If the Council approves 2nd reading on September 2, 2003, the ordinance will be published on
September 11th, and become effective on September 26, 2003.
Prepared By: Gary Morrison, Assistant Zoning Administrator
Approved By: Charles W. Meyer, City Manager
Attachments
Proposed Ordinance
Proposed Summary Ordinance
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4a - 2nd reading Signage amendmnt
Page 3 of 20
ORDINANCE NO.______
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ST. LOUIS PARK
ORDINANCE CODE RELATING TO ZONING BY
AMENDING SECTIONS 36-82(b)(4)(5), 36-82(b)(9)b.3, 36-362(c), 36-362(d), 36-362(f),
36-362(f)(3), 36-362(f)(13), Table 36-362A, 36-362(g)(4)(5)(7), 36-362(h), and 36-362(i)(6)(7)
CREATING CONSISTENCY, CLARIFYING AND AMENDING STANDARDS FOR
PERMANENT, TEMPORARY AND CANOPY/AWNING SIGNS, SIGN PERMITTING
REQUIREMENTS, AND APPROVED SIGN PLANS
THE CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK DOES ORDAIN:
Findings
Sec. 1. The City Council has considered the advice and recommendation of the Planning
Commission (Case No. 03-24-ZA).
Sec. 2. The St. Louis Park Ordinance Code, Sections 36-82(b)(4)(5), 36-82(b)(9)b.3, 36-
362(c), 36-362(d), 36-362(f), 36-362(f)(3), 36-362(f)(13), Table 36-362A, 36-362(g)(4)(5)(7),
36-362(h), and 36-362(i)(6)(7) are hereby amended by deleting stricken language and adding
underscored language.
Section 36-82(b)
(4) Carnivals, festivals and promotional events.
a. Carnivals, festivals, and promotional events, including community art fairs, shall not be permitted
for more than 14 days in any calendar year except in public parks or closed right-of-way as
approved by the city or as specified by PUD approval.
b. Carnivals, festivals, and promotional events shall be permitted within required the front yard, side
yard, or rear yard; except where prohibited under section 36-76. Carnivals, festivals, and
promotional events shall not be allowed within the public right-of-way unless such right-of-way
will be closed for the event as approved by the city.
c. Carnivals, festivals, and promotional events shall not be permitted within any required
bufferyards.
d. All signage must meet the temporary signage provisions found in Section 36-362(h)(3)
(5) Temporary outdoor sales.
a. Temporary sales, including licensed food service, shall only be permitted within a C, O, M-X or I
district or in public parks or closed right-of-way as approved by the city or as specified by PUD
approval.
b. Temporary outdoor sales which do not exceed 100 square feet shall be permitted. However, no
merchandise shall be stored outside overnight.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4a - 2nd reading Signage amendmnt
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c. Temporary sales which exceed 100 square feet shall be permitted for a period not to exceed four
consecutive days or a total of 12 days in a calendar year except in public parks or closed right-of-
way as approved by the city or as specified by PUD approval.
d. Temporary sales shall only be allowed if associated with a permitted retail business operating
within a building on the site in which the same or similar merchandise is offered for sale except in
public parks or closed right-of-way as approved by the city or as specified by PUD approval.
e. Temporary sales shall be permitted in the required front yard, side yard, and rear yard unless
prohibited under section 36-76; however, temporary outdoor sales shall not be allowed in any
required landscaped area or bufferyard or within the public right-of-way unless such right-of-way
will be closed for the event as approved by the city or as specified by PUD approval.
f. All signage must meet the temporary signage provisions found in Section 36-362(h)(3)
(9) All garage sale signs must comply with section 36-2362(e)
Sec. 36-362. Sign regulations.
(a) Purpose. The purpose of this section is to establish minimum requirements for the size, placement and
maintenance of signs by adoption of regulations governing all signs in the city. The sign regulations are intended to
permit a safe, efficient, effective and aesthetic means of communication using signage which recognizes the need to
maintain an attractive and appealing appearance of property in the community, including that property used for
residential, commercial, industrial, institutional, public development use, and the air space above and between those
uses. These regulations are intended to permit signage which is adequate for effective communication but minimizes
distractions to traffic and prevents visual clutter and visual pollution which can be caused by the unregulated use of
signage.
(b) Findings. The city finds that:
(1) The manner of installation, location and maintenance of signs affects the public health, safety,
welfare and aesthetics of the community.
(2) An opportunity for identification of community business and institutions must be established.
(3) The safety of motorists, cyclists, pedestrians, and other users of the public streets and property are
affected by the number, size, location and appearance of signs that divert the attention of drivers.
(4) Installation of signs on the tops of buildings constitutes a hazard during periods of high winds and
is an obstacle to effective firefighting and other emergency services.
(5) Uncontrolled and unlimited construction and placement of permanent and temporary signs
adversely affects the image and aesthetic attractiveness of the community and undermines economic value
and growth.
(6) Uncontrolled, abandoned and unlimited signs, particularly temporary signs, which are commonly
located in or near public rights-of-way or at driveway and street intersections, result in roadside clutter,
obstruction of views of oncoming traffic, and a visual distraction to drivers and pedestrians.
(c) Definitions. The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this section, shall have the meanings
ascribed to them in this subsection, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4a - 2nd reading Signage amendmnt
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Backlighting means an illuminated sign where the light source which illuminates the wall behind individual sign
letters is hidden from view. The sign letters are opaque and appear as a silhouette against the lighted surface.
Billboard means a sign which is used for the primary purpose of selling space advertising a product, service,
business, or event which is not offered for sale or rent or does not take place on the premises on which the sign is
located.
Commercial message means any message which identifies a business or product or promotes the sale of any product
or service.
Courtesy bench means any bench licensed by the city and in compliance with chapter 8 of this Code.
Decorative banner means a piece of fabric attached to a pole or building wall as a decorative display of color to
enhance the architecture of a building or a site which does not contain a commercial message.
Direct lighting means an illuminated sign where the source of light is visible.
Height means the distance measured perpendicularly from the highest point of the sign structure to the grade level of
the ground directly below that point or the grade level of the centerline of the nearest adjacent roadbed, whichever
grade level is higher.
Indirect lighting means an illuminated sign where the sign reflects the light from an external source.
Internal lighting means an illuminated sign having the source of illumination located inside a translucent panel
which is not directly visible.
Sign means any written message, pictorial presentation, number, illustration, decoration, flag, banner or other device
that is used to announce, direct attention to, identify, advertise or otherwise make anything known. The term "sign"
shall not include landscaping or the architectural embellishment of a building not intended to communicate
information. For purposes of maintenance or removal, the term "sign" shall also include frames and support
structures.
(1) On-premises sign means a sign whose message is related to the premises or the activity and use
occurring on the premises on which the sign is located. On-premises signs include multi-tenant
identification signs that may advertise tenants on a different property provided such tenants are within the
same approved PUD and parking is shared between properties.
(2) Off-premises sign means a sign whose message is not related to the premises or the activity and
use occurring on the premises on which the sign is located.
Sign area means the area in square feet of all faces of the sign panel, including the frame. Each message shall be
considered to be a sign. If individual letters are mounted directly on a wall, or canopy or awning without a frame,
the sign area shall be the area in square feet of the smallest rectangle, which encloses the sign message or logo. The
sign area of a freestanding multiple face or volumetric sign shall be determined by totaling the area of all faces. The
maximum aggregate or total sign area on a lot shall include the sign area of all signs.
Sign, blade means a wall sign that projects away from the wall at an angle sufficient to provide visibility to at least
two sides of the sign.
Sign, canopy/awning means a visual message on an awning or canopy which is constructed according to the
requirements of the building code, are constructed of flexible translucent or fabric type material, is an integral part
of the building, and is consistent with the architecture and design of the building.
Sign, changing sign means a sign whose message can be readily changed, either by manual or automatic means.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4a - 2nd reading Signage amendmnt
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Sign, flashing sign means any illuminated sign, which is not a changing sign which emits an intermittent or flashing
light, or creates the illusion of intermittent or flashing light by means of animation.
Sign, freestanding sign means a sign, which is self-supporting usually by uprights placed on or in the ground.
Sign, Garage sale means a sign advertising a garage sale per section 36-82(b)(9).
Sign, illuminated sign means any sign, which has characters, letters, figures, designs or outlines which are either
internally or externally illuminated by an artificial light source.
Sign, permanent means any sign that is not a temporary sign, real estate sign, political sign, project information sign
or pedestrian sign.
Sign, pedestrian portable sign means a temporary sign, which is usually constructed of durable materials and is
designed to be readily moved from one location to another. (ex. Sandwich board sign or any item containing a
message) For purposes of this ordinance, any sign mounted to, or conveyed by means of, a vehicle shall not be
considered a pedestrian sign.
Sign, political sign means a temporary sign, which advertises or promotes a candidate for public office, a political
party, or an issue to be considered in a public election.
Sign, private directional sign means a sign, which includes no advertising placed on private property for the purpose
of regulating, guiding, warning traffic or persons, or providing other safety information.
Sign, project information sign means a temporary directional sign displayed during the time that a construction
project on a public roadway or in an approved redevelopment district is underway.
Sign, public sign means any sign defined as a traffic control sign in the Highway Traffic Regulation Act M.S.A. §
169.97 et seq., any identification sign installed in a public park by a public authority, or any other identification,
regulatory, or warning sign approved by the city council for installation on public land.
Sign, real estate sign means a temporary sign, which advertises the development, sale, lease or rental of land or
buildings. A real estate sign is designed to be displayed for a limited period of time and is not permanently fixed to
the land or a structure. Real estate signs may be constructed of paper, cloth, canvas, wood or any other light and
non-durable material.
Sign, rooftop sign means a sign attached to any roof or any sign attached to a building in any other manner that
allows more than ten percent of its area to extend above the wall or parapet wall of the side of the building on which
the sign is located.
Sign, rotating sign means a sign or a portion of a sign which moves in a rotating, oscillating or similar manner other
than changing signs.
Sign, temporary sign means a sign designed to be displayed for a limited period of time that is not permanently fixed
to the land or a structure. Temporary signs may be constructed of paper, cloth, canvas, cardboard, wood or any other
light and non-durable material. Visual messages on awnings or canopies which are constructed according to the
requirements of the building code, are constructed of flexible translucent or fabric type material, and which are an
integral part of the building shall not be considered temporary signs.
Sign, wall sign means a sign attached to or erected against an exterior wall surface of a building or structure.
Supergraphics means any mosaic, mural, painting or graphic art or combination thereof which is professionally
applied to a building that does not contain any brand name, product name, letters of the alphabet spelling or
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4a - 2nd reading Signage amendmnt
Page 7 of 20
abbreviating the name of any product, company, profession or business, or any logo, trademark, trade name, or other
commercial message.
(d) Exempt signs. The following signs are exempt from the provisions of this section:
(1) Public signs.
(2) Private directional signs less than four square feet in area.
(2)(3) The United States flag, other national flags, the flags of all the states of the United States and the
city flag.
(3)(4) Supergraphics.
(4)(5) A building address which does not exceed 12 inches in height.
(5)(6) Signs on courtesy benches, if they comply with the requirements of chapter 8 of this Code.
(6)(7) Signs on vehicles when the vehicle is being used in the normal day-to-day operation of a business.
(e) Prohibited signs. The following signs are prohibited in all use districts:
(1) Flashing signs.
(2) Signs on or over the public rights-of-way unless the city council grants permission for a temporary
sign on or over the public rights-of-way for a period of time not to exceed ten days.
(3) Searchlights, beacons, strobe lights or other illuminated signs emitting a beam consisting of a
collection or concentration of rays of light.
(4) Rooftop signs.
(5) Rotating signs.
(6) Billboards.
(7) Off-premises signs.
(8) Inflatable signs and tethered balloons.
(9) Signs painted directly on a building.
(10) Signs mounted on chimneys, rooftop equipment, observation towers, flagpoles, cooling towers,
elevator penthouses, commercial antennas, communication towers, belfries, church spires and cupolas.
(f) General provisions. Subject to the following regulations, signs are a permitted accessory use in all use
districts:
(1) Permit required. A sign permit shall be issued prior to the installation of any sign.
a. Exception. Real estate signs less than 10 square feet in area, political signs and garage
sale signs are exempt from the permit requirements.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4a - 2nd reading Signage amendmnt
Page 8 of 20
(2) b. Submission requirements. The following information shall be submitted prior to a sign
permit being issued:
a. 1. Application form and fee. A fee shall be charged per sign, except that
decorative banners and private directional signs less than 4 square feet per sign face shall
be charged one fee per proposal submitted for review and approval.
b. 2. Site plan and building elevations, if applicable.
c. 3. Two sets of drawings for each sign that is proposed.
(23) Required yards. No sign shall be erected or maintained in any required yard in any use district
with the following exceptions: except that a wall sign may extend into the required yard a distance not to
exceed 18 inches.
a. In the C-1, C-2 and M-X districts, when the principal building is located more than 20
feet from the front property line, the required setbacks for a freestanding sign shall be 20 feet the
required yard for any sign less than 200 square feet in sign area shall be 5 feet. All other signs
shall have a required yard of 20 feet unless exempted below.
b. In the C-1, C-2 and M-X districts, a blade sign may project into the required front yard if
the sign meets the following requirements:
1. The sign is attached to a wall in such a manner that meets the building code; and
2. The lowest portion of the sign is no closer than 8 feet to the ground; and
3. No portion of the sign shall extend more than 4 feet from the building, and in no
instances shall the sign project into the public right-of-way.
4. The sign face does not exceed 9 square feet.
c. Except as allowed under (3)b of this section, a wall sign may extend into the required
yard a distance not to exceed 18 inches, and a canopy or awning sign may extend into the required
yard as allowed by Section 36-73(a)(5) and Section36-73(b)(3), except that structures that do not
meet the current front or side yard requirements shall place signs flush against the front or side
walls.
d b. Signs may be placed on the front or side walls of an existing nonconforming structure
even though the structure does not meet the current yard requirements.
e d. A sign may be placed on the face of an existing canopy or awning located on a structure
classified as conforming or lawful nonconforming use if the sign does not extend above the top or
below the bottom of the vertical portion of the canopy or awning face.
e. Real estate signs meeting the standards set forth in Section 36-362(h)(1).
f. Private directional signs meeting the standards set forth in Section 36-362(h)(2).
g. Pedestrian signs meeting the standards set forth in Section 36-362(h)(4).
h. Decorative Banners meeting the standards set forth in Section 36-362(h)(5).
i. Political signs meeting the standards set forth in Section 36-362(h)(6).
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j. Project Information signs meeting the standards set forth in Section 36-362(h)(7).
(34) Freestanding signs. Except for private directional, project information, real estate, political,
decorative banners, and temporary signs, no more than one freestanding sign shall be permitted on an
individual street frontage of a lot or PUD site.
(45) Parking areas. Signs shall not be placed in or restrict access to required parking spaces or loading
berths.
(56) Multi-tenant building. The property owner or the property owner's designee shall be responsible
for allocating the allowable sign area among the tenants of a multi-tenant building. If the property owner
does not allocate the sign area, the city may do so based on the proportion of floor area or tenant frontage
occupied by each tenant.
(67) Lighting. Direct rays or glare of light from an illuminated sign shall not be visible from public
rights-of-way or property other than that on which the illuminated sign is located. Any external source of
illumination must be provided with shields or lenses which concentrate the light onto the sign.
(78) Electrical wiring The electrical energy used to illuminate freestanding signs may not be from an
overhead source but must be buried underground. The conduit and wiring to all signs must be concealed.
(89) Wind load. All signs shall be designed and constructed to withstand wind loads of at least 30
pounds per square foot of area and the dead loads required by the building code and other ordinances of the
city.
(910) Anchoring. All signs shall be safely and securely anchored to their supporting structure. All
attachments and movable parts shall be securely fastened. No sign shall be anchored to another sign.
(101) Bracing. All signs shall be constructed with internal or hidden bracing. External bracing shall be
eliminated whenever practicable. Exposed wire, cable and chain braces are prohibited.
(112) Glass. All glass must be safety or tempered glass, and designed and installed to withstand a wind
load of 30 pounds per square foot.
(123) Durable Materials. All permanent sign faces and supports shall be made of durable materials.
Canvas, cloth and similar materials such as flexible vinyl, are not allowed except for canopies, awnings and
temporary signs other than pedestrian signs. All permanent wood signs must be constructed of durable
hardwood products. The wood must be treated against rot and decay, and cannot be constructed of
plywood, chipped wood, hardboard, fiber board or similar materials. Sign Support structures shall not be
constructed of wood. Incombustible material. All sign faces and supports shall be constructed of
incombustible material.
(134) Maintenance. All signs shall be kept in good repair and free from peeling paint, rust, damaged or
rotted supports or framework, broken or missing faces, facing or missing letters. Faded or torn canopies,
awnings and banners shall be removed or replaced. If faded or torn canopies, awnings and banners are not
removed or replaced by the owner within 30 days of notification by the city, the city may remove them and
assess the cost of removal to the property.
(145) Maintenance grounds. The premises surrounding all ground signs shall be maintained by the
property owner or tenant of the property on which they are located in a safe, clean, and sanitary condition
free and clear of all rubbish and weeds.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4a - 2nd reading Signage amendmnt
Page 10 of 20
(156) Removal and repair. Any structure from which a sign has been moved or removed shall be
repaired with a material which matches the existing background.
(167) Removal of painted signs. Any structure from which a painted sign is removed shall be repainted,
sandblasted or treated in a manner which makes the former sign not visible.
(178) Signs not to be traffic hazard. No sign shall be installed in a way that obstructs clear vision of
persons using the streets or at any location that, because of its position, shape, or color, interferes with,
obstructs the view of, or may be confused with any authorized traffic sign, signal or device. No sign, other
than public or project informational signs, shall be visible from a public street which makes use of the
words "Stop," "Look," "Danger," or any other word, phrase, symbol or character which may interfere with,
mislead or confuse persons using the public streets.
(189) Pedestrian clearance. Any sign which projects over a sidewalk or other pedestrianway must be not
less than eight feet above ground level.
(1920) Sign area and height. The allowable sign area and height are established by table 36-362A in this
subsection (f)(20) and adjustments to table 36-362A in subsection (g) of this section according to the parcel
size or PUD site size and use district in which the sign is located.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4a - 2nd reading Signage amendmnt
Page 11 of 20
TABLE 36-362A
SIGN AREA AND HEIGHT
PERMANENT TEMPORARY REAL ESTATE
Use Maximum SIGNAGE SIGNAGE SIGNAGE
District & Sign Maximum Maximum Maximum Maximum
Lot Size Height Total Area Size of Total Area Total Area
(sq ft) (feet) (sq ft) Sign Face (sq ft) (sq ft)
(sq ft)
SIGN AREA AND HEIGHT Maximum
Maximum Total Area
Use Maximum Size of size for Maximum
District Maximum Permanent Permanent Temporary Total Area
Size Sign Height Total Area Sign Face Signs Size for Real
(sq ft) (feet) (sq ft) (sq ft) (sq ft) Estate Signs
(sq ft)
R-1: 6 2 2 6 6
R-2: 6 2 2 6 6
R-3:
0--15,000: 6 2 2 6 6
Over
15,000: 6 25 25 25 60
R-4: 6 25 25 25 80
R-C:
0-20,000: 15 40 40 25 80
Over
20,000: 15 80 60 25 80
C-1
0-10,000: 25 100 75 80 80
10,000-
20,000: 25 150 100 80 80
Over
20,000: 25 200 150 80 80
C-2
0-10,000: 25 100 75 80 80
10,000-
20,000: 25 200 100 80 80
20,000-
50,000: 25 250 150 80 80
50,000-
200,000: 25 300 150 80 80
Over
200,000: 25 400 300 80 80
O
0-20,000: 25 100 100 80 80
20,000-
50,000: 25 200 100 80 80
50,000-
100,000: 25 300 150 80 80
Over
100,000: 25 500 300 80 80
I-P
0-20,000: 25 100 75 80 80
20,000-
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4a - 2nd reading Signage amendmnt
Page 12 of 20
50,000: 25 200 100 80 80
Over
50,000: 25 250 150 80 80
I-G
0-20,000: 25 100 75 80 80
20,000-
50,000: 25 200 100 80 80
Over
50,000: 25 250 150 80 80
M-X: 15 per approval 150 50 80
(g) Adjustments to table 36-362A. Signs which qualify for any adjustment permitted under this section shall
conform to all other sections of this chapter.
(1) In an R district, identification signs may be permitted for religious institutions, libraries, museums,
art galleries, schools, golf courses, country clubs, community centers, colleges, universities, hospitals and
sanitariums in excess of the size allowed in table 36-362A based on the following criteria:
a. Size. The sign shall be proportional to the size of the facility, need for signage, street
frontage, location, visibility, and development in the area. The maximum sign size shall not
exceed 20 square feet per sign face on a local street, 40 square feet per sign face on a minor
collector street, and 60 square feet per sign face on any other street frontage.
b. Height. No freestanding sign shall exceed 15 feet high.
c. Lighting. Signs shall be lighted only by backlighting, internal lighting or indirect lighting.
d. Design. The materials and design of signs shall be integrated with the site and buildings
on the site by using compatible materials and consistent design features. If freestanding, the sign
shall be placed in a landscaped bed equal in area to twice the size of the combined sign faces.
e. Location. A freestanding sign shall not be less than 25 feet from any property line.
f. Sign purpose. The principal purpose of any sign permitted under this section shall be to
identify the public or institutional use made of the property.
(2) For any building not located in an R district which is eight or more stories or 85 or more feet in
height, the maximum size for any one sign may be increased to 400 square feet, if the sign is located on the
wall of the building more than 75 feet above the ground.
(3) The maximum size for any one real estate sign may be increased to 200 square feet for any
building not located in an R district which is six or more stories or 65 or more feet in height, if the sign is
located on the wall of the building more than 55 feet above the ground.
(4) In the C-1, C-2, O, I-G and I-P districts, the total area of all wall, canopy and awning signs on a
building which meets the following outlined conditions shall not be included in calculating the aggregate
sign area on a lot:
a. The building shall be a shopping center or a building containing multiple tenants
including and limited to retail, private entertainment (indoors), restaurants with liquor, restaurants
without liquor, services, food services, printing process, banks, studios and showrooms or a
single-tenant building housing one of the land uses named in this subsection (g)(4)a. if such
single-tenant building is located on a single lot with other principal buildings and is part of an
approved planned unit development under the provisions of this chapter.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4a - 2nd reading Signage amendmnt
Page 13 of 20
b. The area of all wall, canopy or awning signs permitted by this section shall not exceed
seven percent of the wall area of the building. If a shopping center or multitenant building contains
land uses other than those listed in subsection (g)(4)a. of this section, the amount of wall area
which may be used to calculate allowable signage shall be determined by multiplying the total
wall area of the building by a percentage equal to the percentage of the gross floor area of the
building occupied by the land uses listed in subsection (g)(4)a. of this section.
c. No individual wall, canopy or awning sign shall exceed 150 square feet in area, except in
the C-1 district where the maximum area of any individual sign shall not exceed 100 square feet.
(5) The maximum size of the sign face may be increased by 20 percent for a property which is not
located in an R district if the sign is located at least 100 feet from any public right-of-way.
(6) The sign which identifies a contiguous group of buildings under a single ownership within a single
complex shall be exempt from the total sign area requirements if the property on which the sign is erected
is not located in an R district. The maximum size of the sign face shall be regulated by table 36-362A.
(7) Real estate signs, Private directional signs and decorative banners are not included in the
calculation of maximum total area of signage permitted on a site.
(h) Special provisions. In addition to the general provisions contained in subsection (f) of this section, these
special provisions apply to the following types of signs:
(1) Real estate sign. Real estate signs shall be regulated as follows:
a. A real estate sign which does not exceed ten square feet in area or and ten feet in height is
exempt from the required yard restrictions.
b. A real estate sign may only be displayed on the property on which the sign is advertising
the sale, lease or rental of.
c. A real estate sign may only be displayed until the advertised property is sold, leased or
rented.
(2) Private directional signs are regulated as follows:
a. A private directional sign that does not exceed 4 square feet in sign face area and which
does not exceed eight square feet in area or 42 inches in height, shall be is exempt from the
required yard restrictions, and shall not be included in the maximum total area for permanent signs
identified in table 36-362A.
b. A private directional sign that exceeds 4 square feet in sign face area, and/or 42 inches in
height shall be subject to all permanent sign regulations.
c. All private directional signs shall be located on the property, or within an approved
planned unit development, on which the business receiving the benefit of the private directional
sign is located.
(3) Temporary signs. Temporary signs are regulated as follows:
a. With the exception of Pedestrian signs as defined below, temporary signs may be
permitted on a lot for a total of 30 days in any calendar year, which may be divided into no more
than four separate times during that calendar year.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4a - 2nd reading Signage amendmnt
Page 14 of 20
b. The total sign area of all temporary and permanent signs on a lot, including pedestrian
signs, shall not exceed the total permitted in table 36-362A.
c. A temporary sign shall not direct persons to or advertise a product or service not
available on the premises where the sign is located.
d. Temporary signs, other than pedestrian signs, may be constructed of paper, cloth, canvas,
wood or any other light and non-durable material.
e. Pedestrian Signs are temporary signs further regulated as follows:
1. Pedestrian signs may be displayed in the C, O and MX districts only.
2. No portion of the sign shall project beyond a cube measuring 3 feet wide by 3
feet deep by 4 feet in height.
3. Pedestrian signs may be placed up to the property line, subject to Section 36-76.
No portion of the sign shall be placed in, or project into the public right-of-way, and any
such sign shall be located so that it does not obstruct pedestrian or vehicular movement or
impede pedestrian or vehicular visibility.
4. The sign may be displayed during business hours only. The sign shall be stored
inside a building during non-business hours and during severe weather conditions.
5. The sign shall not be placed in such a manner that it obstructs the visibility of
another property's permanent signage.
6. No place of business shall display more than 1 pedestrian sign at any time and
the total of all pedestrian and other temporary signs on the property shall not exceed the
total allowed in table 36-362A.
7. Pedestrian signs that are maintained in good repair and in accordance with all
ordinance provisions may be permitted for up to one calender year. The Zoning
Adminsitrator may revoke a permit and remove any sign that does not meet the ordinance
requirements, or is creating a public hazard. After one year, a new permit may be applied
for.
8. Pedestrian signs may be constructed of wood, metal, non-flexible plastic or any
other durable material.
(4) Decorative banners. Decorative banners are allowed in the R-C, C-2, and O and M-X districts and
are regulated as follows:
a. All decorative banners shall be an integral part of the overall design scheme of a project.
A decorative banner shall be deemed to be a part of the integral design scheme if the following
conditions exist:
1. The decorative banners are compatible with the architectural character of the
building in terms of rhythm of openings, horizontal or vertical emphasis, and stylistic
features of the building in color, pattern and shape.
2. The decorative banners are considered to be in harmony and unity with various
elements within the site and also within the larger context of the area or corridor.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4a - 2nd reading Signage amendmnt
Page 15 of 20
3. The location and placement of the banners provides a harmonious rhythm to the
building and site elements.
4. The zoning administrator shall determine whether any banner meets the design
criteria set forth by this subsection (h)(4).
b. No single decorative banner may exceed eight square feet in area.
c. Decorative banners shall be securely fastened on the full length of at least two sides of
the decorative banner to a structure which was erected for another principal purpose, such as a
light standard.
d. Faded or torn decorative banners shall be removed or replaced. If faded or torn banners
are not removed or replaced by the owner within 30 days of notification by the city, the city may
remove them and assess the cost of removal to the property.
e. No decorative banner may display a commercial message. Commercial messages are
allowed on other signage in accordance with this section.
f. Decorative banners shall be exempt from the total allowable sign area for a parcel. The
maximum aggregate area for decorative banners shall not exceed 15 percent of the total allowable
sign area for a parcel.
g. The top of a decorative banner may not exceed 15 feet in height from the ground.
h. No decorative banner may be displayed within any required yard.
(5) Political signs.
a. Political signs are permitted in the front yard.
b. No political sign may be placed on the public right-of-way or any publicly owned
property, including boulevard trees and utility poles.
c. No political sign shall have more than two faces. The total square footage of sign area on
one lot shall not exceed 64 square feet, except that political signs of any size are permitted from
August 1 in a state general election year until ten days following the state general election.
d. No sign shall be placed which obstructs the vision at an intersection or otherwise
constitutes a hazard to public safety.
e. Signs sponsoring candidates for public office must be removed within ten days after an
election has been held unless the candidate is one who qualifies as a candidate to be named on the
ballot at a general election after a primary election. In that case, signs erected or placed before the
primary election by or for that candidate may be left in place until ten days after the general
election. In any election which is not a primary, all political signs shall be removed within ten
days after such election.
(6) Project information signs.
a. Purpose. The purpose of a project information sign is to identify a business or group of
businesses affected by a construction project that is underway on a roadway or in an approved
redevelopment district to direct traffic or convey that the business or group of businesses is open
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4a - 2nd reading Signage amendmnt
Page 16 of 20
to the public. Project information signs shall not be used for the purpose of advertising products,
services or events.
b. Design. Project information signs shall have black letters on a "federal highway orange"
background. A project information sign displayed on public property must conform to the
Highway Traffic Regulation Act, M.S.A. § 169.97 et seq., for informational signs and if displayed
on private property, may not exceed the area and height requirements of this section for signs on
that parcel.
c. Placement. The city council shall be responsible for approving the general location of
project information signs. Such signs may not be permitted on a roof.
d. Duration. Project information signs will be removed when the city determines that:
1. The business identified discontinues operation;
2. The construction work has been completed; or
3. Access to the business is no longer affected by the construction project.
e. Plan development. A plan for the project information signs may be initiated by either the
affected businesses or city staff. If developed by city staff, the plan shall be reviewed by the
affected businesses prior to transmitting the plan to the city council for consideration.
f. Installation. The city will be responsible for the fabrication and installation of project
information signs installed on public property. The cost of fabricating, installing and maintaining
the signs will be paid by the affected businesses.
If a project information sign is displayed on private property, it is the responsibility of the property
owner to fabricate and install the sign according to the approved signage plan and to pay all costs,
including sign permit fees, incident to the fabrication and placement of the project information
signs.
(7) Signs which advertise businesses on freeways and highways.
a. Application may be made to the city for an increase in maximum sign height on a lot
having all of the following characteristics:
1. The lot abuts the right-of-way of an interstate freeway or state highway or abuts
a frontage road immediately adjacent to an interstate freeway or state highway.
2. The lot does not have and is not permitted to have directional signage on the
interstate freeway or state highway directing the public to the subject lot.
3. The lot has no other option permitted by this chapter to provide the requested
square footage of signage visible from 50 percent of, at a plane 3.5 feet above, the portion
of the interstate freeway or highway adjacent to the lot.
b. To be eligible for an increase in sign height, the second point of all cross sectional
drawings, as described in subsection (h)(7)b.2.ii. of this section, must be located such that more
than 50 percent of the plane above the traveled surface of the interstate freeway or state highway is
obstructed from the first point, as described in subsection (h)(7)b.2.i. of this section. An
application for increased sign height shall be accompanied by the following drawings drawn to
scale:
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4a - 2nd reading Signage amendmnt
Page 17 of 20
1. A site plan showing the location of the proposed sign, property lines of the
subject property, road alignments of adjacent streets and highways and the locations of
any cross sectional drawings necessary to analyze the request.
2. Cross sectional drawings necessary to analyze the request showing the entire
traveled surface of the freeway or state highway, any retaining walls or fences, any
frontage roads, proposed sign location and height and a straight line (referred to as the
"sight line") drawn between two points described as follows:
i. The first point situated on a line perpendicular to the earth's surface at
the location of the proposed sign passing through the center of the sign face and
25 feet above the centerline of the nearest adjacent street or the ground level of
the base of the proposed sign, whichever results in a higher elevation.
ii. The second point situated on a plane surface 3.5 feet above and parallel
to the traveled surface of the interstate freeway or state highway, located by
projecting a line from the first point to its intersection with the plane surface so
that the resulting point of intersection of the line with the plane surface (the
second point) is as close as possible to the first point while not passing through
an intervening obstruction that would prevent visibility.
c. The zoning administrator may approve an application to increase sign height which meets
the criteria set forth in this subsection (h)(7)c. where the proposed sign plan meets each of the
following requirements:
1. The sign is no higher than necessary to permit the bottom edge of the sign face
to be visible from at least 50 percent of the traveled surface of the interstate or state
highway.
2. The top of the sign face is no more than 12 feet above the bottom of the sign
face.
3. The location of the sign is such that the increase in sign height is minimized.
4. The sign face shall not exceed 150 square feet.
5. The sign lighting is either internal or indirect and no light source is visible
beyond the property lines of the lot.
6. Illuminated signs located within 400 feet of the structures used for residential
purposes shall have its illuminated portion shielded from view of such residential
structures.
(i) Nonconforming signs.
(1) General. A nonconforming sign shall not be rebuilt, relocated, altered or modified in size or height
unless it is made fully conforming with this section.
(2) Removal. Except for changing signs or billboards, if a face or message on a nonconforming sign is
removed, the entire sign and sign structure must be removed or made to conform with this section.
(3) Temporary sign. Temporary and portable signs in existence at the time of passage of the ordinance
from which this section is derived which do not conform to this section shall be removed or made to
conform within 30 days of the effective date of the ordinance from which this section is derived.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4a - 2nd reading Signage amendmnt
Page 18 of 20
(4) Real estate signs. Real estate signs in existence as of the date of the ordinance from which this
section is derived was adopted which do not conform with the requirements of this section shall be
removed or made to conform within 120 days of the effective date of the ordinance from which this section
is derived.
(5) Billboards.
a. Any billboard in existence as of the date of the ordinance from which this section is
derived was adopted may remain in place if it is not increased in sign area or height and is
maintained in conformance with the general provisions of this chapter. The following are not
permitted on billboards:
1. Flashing signs.
2. Changing signs, unless they are limited to a display of either time, temperature
or stock market indices.
b. The maximum height of a billboard shall be 35 feet, including extensions, measured as
required by subsection (c) of this section.
c. Billboards which have been destroyed or damaged must be removed when the cost of
repair equals more than 50 percent of the appraised physical value of the structure.
(6) Any sign installed under a sign plan which has been approved by the city council in conjunction
with a PUD or other development plan may remain as a conforming sign if the sign is maintained according
to the conditions imposed in the resolution granting the sign plan. If any additional signage is to be installed
on the property, the additional signage must fully conform with the requirements of this section.
(76) All lawful nonconforming signs existing at the time of passage of the ordinance from which this
section is derived, except temporary signs, real estate signs and billboards, must be removed or made to
conform by January 1, 2000, unless the existing sign was made nonconforming by a provision of this
section. Those nonconforming signs must be removed or made to conform to this section by January 1,
2005.
(j) Forfeiture. Any sign installed or placed on public property shall be forfeited to the public and subject to
confiscation, unless it conforms to the requirements of this section. In addition to other remedies granted to it by this
section, the city shall have the right to recover from the owner or person placing the sign the full costs of removal
and disposal of the sign in a civil action.
Sec. 3. The contents of Planning Case File 03-24-ZA are hereby entered into and
made part of the public hearing record and the record of decision for this case.
Sec.4. This Ordinance shall take effect fifteen days after its publication.
Adopted by the City Council September 2, 2003
Reviewed for Administration
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4a - 2nd reading Signage amendmnt
Page 19 of 20
City Manager Mayor
Attest: Approved as to Form and Execution:
City Clerk City Attorney
03-24-ZA:res-ord
SUMMARY
ORDINANCE NO._____________
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ST. LOUIS PARK
ORDINANCE CODE RELATING TO ZONING BY
AMENDING SECTIONS 36-82(b)(4)(5), 36-82(b)(9)b.3, 36-362(c), 36-362(d), 36-362(f),
36-362(f)(3), 36-362(f)(13), Table 36-362A, 36-362(g)(4)(5)(7), 36-362(h), and 36-362(i)(6)(7)
FOR PERMANENT AND TEMPORARY SIGNS
This ordinance amends the Ordinance Code relative to creating consistency, clarifying and
amending standards for permanent, temporary and canopy/awning signs, sign permitting
requirements, and approved sign plans.
This ordinance shall take effect 15 days after publication.
Adopted by the City Council September 2, 2003
Jeffrey W. Jacobs /s/
Mayor
A copy of the full text of this ordinance is available for inspection with the City Clerk.
Published in St. Louis Park Sailor: September 11, 2003
03-24-ZAsum:res-ord
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4a - 2nd reading Signage amendmnt
Page 20 of 20
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4b- TGI Fridays sign variance
Page 1 of 1
4b. Motion to accept withdrawal of Carlson Restaurants Worldwide application for a
variance to the sign ordinance to increase the maximum allowable square footage of
signage and number of pylon signs for the property.
Background:
A special permit was approved in 1978 to allow the construction of a nine-story office building
with bank drive-in facility. That permit was subsequently amended in 1979 to allow the
construction of a class-1 restaurant (TGI Friday's).
RSP Architects applied on behalf of Carlson Restaurants Worldwide for a major amendment to
the existing special permit. The amendment would be to replace the approved exterior elevations
with the new proposed elevations. A variance is also being requested to allow 778.2 square feet
of signage instead of the sign ordinance's maximum allowable sign area of 500 square feet.
The Planning Commission reviewed this application at it's July 16, 2003 meeting, and on two 4-0
votes recommended the City Council approve the major amendment to the existing special
permit, and also recommended approval of the variance to allow 239 square feet of signage more
than the 500 square feet allowed by code with the condition that the variance expire on January
1, 2005.
The City Council reviewed the application, together with the Planning Commission's
recommendation at the August 18, 2003 Council meeting. The Council on two 7-0 votes voted
to approve the major amendment to the special permit, and to direct staff to draft a Resolution of
denial to be brought forward to the Council for consideration at the September 2, 2003 City
Council meeting.
Since the August 18th Council meeting, staff received a letter from Carlson Restaurants
Worldwide requesting a withdrawal of their application for a sign variance. This letter is
attached for your review.
Attachments:
August 26, 2003 Letter of Withdrawal from Carlson Restaurants Worldwide.
Prepared by:
Gary Morrison, Assistant Zoning Administrator
Approved by:
Charles W. Meyer, City Manager
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4c - Res Final Pymt Allied blacktop
Page 1 of 1
RESOLUTION NO. 03 - _____
RESOLUTION ACCEPTING WORK ON
CONTRACT SEALCOATING
CITY PROJECT NO. 03-08
CONTRACT NO. 76-03
ALLIED BLACKTOP
BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota, as follows:
1. Pursuant to a written contract with the City dated July 7, 2003, Allied Blacktop has
satisfactorily completed the 2003 contract sealcoating, as per Contract No. 76-03.
2. The Director of Public Works has filed his recommendations for final acceptance of the work.
3. The work completed under this contract is accepted and approved. The City Manager is
directed to make final payment on the contract, taking the contractor's receipt in full.
Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the City Council September 2, 2003
City Manager Mayor
Attest:
City Clerk
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4d - Bid Tab GAC
Page 1 of 1
4d Bid Tabulation: Purchase of Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) Supply
Contract. Motion to authorize execution of a contract with Calgon
Carbon Corporation for the purchase of GAC in the amount of $52,400
Background: Granular Activated Carbon Treatment Plants are located at 2935 Jersey Avenue
(Water Treatment Plant No. 1) and at 4601 W. 41st Street (Water Treatment Plant No. 4). These
plants came on line in 1986 and 1993, respectively. These GAC plants treat drinking water
contaminated by the Reilly Tar and Chemical Plant. This treatment is effective in removing
polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) contaminants. The GAC absorbs the PAH’s as the
contaminated water passes through the filters. The GAC eventually becomes loaded with the
PAH particles, is no longer effective in the removal of the PAH’s, and must be replaced. The
GAC treated water is continually monitored to measure the amount of PAH’s removed. When
the level of PAH’s in the treated water increases to the Drinking Water Advisory Level the GAC
has to be scheduled for replacement. Based on years of experience, the replacement of the GAC
is now done annually at these plants.
Bids were received on August 20, 2003 for the supply and regeneration of GAC for Water
Treatment Plants No. 1 and 4. An advertisement for bids was published in the St. Louis Park
Sun-Sailor on July 30, 2003. A summary of the bid results is as follows:
Bidder Bid Amount
Calgon Carbon Corporation $ 52,400.00
Norit Americas, Inc. $ 54,320.00
Financial Considerations: The bid amount of $52,400 is about a 2% decrease from the 2002
contract with Calgon Carbon Corporation which totaled $53,600. The 2003 Water Utility
Budget provides $60,000 for this GAC exchange at Water Treatment Plants No. 1 and 4.
Recommendation: Staff recommends that the contract be awarded to the low bidder, Calgon
Carbon Corporation for the contract amount of $52,400.
Prepared by: Michael Rardin, Director of Public Works
Approved by: Charles W. Meyer, City Manager
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4e - Henn Cty Cooperation - Dispatch
Page 1 of 2
4e. Motion to adopt Resolution requesting cooperation from Hennepin County
in researching feasibility of County operated dispatch services for the City of St.
Louis Park.
Background:
Police Chief John Luse has been pursuing options for consolidation of public safety dispatching
services. He had asked the Hennepin County Sheriff if the Sheriff’s Department would be able
to take over dispatching for St. Louis Park and Golden Valley. John’s concern was that he was
aware that the current Sheriff’s dispatch center is near capacity and may not be able to add two
additional cities without incurring considerable expense. The Sheriff had asked John to prepare a
letter asking the Sheriff under what terms a takeover could occur, specifically would the County
charge the City to dispatch. John discussed this issue with City Council and advised that he
would be sending such a letter and the letter was distributed to Council.
When Sheriff Pat McGowan presented his report to the Hennepin County Board of
Commissioners on the impacts of taking on the two cities he indicated that he would need to
expand the technical capacity of the dispatch system and staffing but that building facilities
would not require expansion. The Sheriff pointed out in his presentation that he assumed the
existing County Board policy of providing dispatch services to suburban cities at no charge
would continue to apply in this expansion hence the costs of the expansion would be borne by the
County. There was considerable discussion on this issue and many related issues such as
staffing, record systems etc.
At the end of the conversation, County Board Chair, Mike Opat, asked if the St. Louis Park (and
Golden Valley) City Council had acted on this request. We responded that while the City
Council had been informed of the request and concurred with making it, that they had not taken
action. Mr. Opat suggested that before the County Board give additional consideration to this
issue that they should have confirmation that the City Council was supportive.
The dilemma that staff has in presenting this item to Council is that the action proposed for
Council is really no action at all. We are not proposing that the City Council support the County
takeover of dispatch since we do not have any cost information. So we are asking the Council to
support the request made by the Police Chief for information about the terms of a takeover and
any potential costs. Essentially the City Council will be supporting a request for information
from the County. While it is difficult to see how this action advances the discussion, we feel it is
necessary to comply with the request of the County Board Chair.
In a related note, the Sheriff’s Department has indicated that it does not intend to participate in
our consolidation study but the County Administrator’s Office has advised us that they do intend
to participate.
Attachments: Resolution
Approved by: Charles W. Meyer, City Manager
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4e - Henn Cty Cooperation - Dispatch
Page 2 of 2
RESOLUTION NO. 03-______
RESOLUTION REQUESTING COOPERATION FROM HENNEPIN COUNTY
IN RESEARCHING FEASIBILITY OF COUNTY OPERATED DISPATCH
SERVICES FOR THE CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK
WHEREAS, the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota and other Minnesota cities are
experiencing budget reductions which may impact the ability of cities to deliver cost-effective
dispatch services; and
WHEREAS, the City of St. Louis Park is considering the possibility of entering into an
agreement with Hennepin County whereby public safety dispatch services would be provided to
the City of St. Louis Park by the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Department; and
WHEREAS, in order to move forward in evaluating this option, the Police Chief of the
City of St. Louis Park has requested the cooperation of the Hennepin County Board and the
Hennepin County Sheriff’s Department in providing us with information, statistics and an on-
going dialogue about services which could be provided to the City of St. Louis Park by Hennepin
County should we choose this option.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of St. Louis
Park, Minnesota, that we support the efforts of our staff to evaluate options available to us for the
provision of public safety dispatch services to our residents and businesses and further request
that the Hennepin County Board of Commissioners, Sheriff’s Department, and other Hennepin
County staff cooperate fully in assisting us to evaluate the possibility of entering into an
agreement with the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Department for dispatch services.
Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the City Council September 2, 2003
City Manager Mayor
Attest:
City Clerk
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4f - MCWD Maint Agmt
Page 1 of 3
4f Motion to approve Stormwater Facility Maintenance Agreement with the
Minnehaha Creek Watershed District to sweep ten (10) local streets in the Spring
and Fall of each year.
Background: The City has submitted a permit application to the Minnehaha Creek Watershed
District (MCWD) for the construction of sidewalk improvements at the following ten (10)
locations:
• Alabama Avenue from 36th Street to 37th Street
• Alabama Avenue from Goodrich Avenue to 39th Street
• Texas Avenue from Minnetonka Blvd. to 31st Street
• Texas Avenue from 32 ½ Street to 36th/Walker Street
• Aquila Avenue from 36th Street to 34th Street
• Aquila Avenue from Highway 7 to 37th Street
• Wooddale Avenue from Oxford Street to Highway 100 entrance ramp
• Wooddale Avenue from Highway 7 to 36th Street
• 36th Street from Wooddale Avenue to Alabama Avenue
• Park Commons Drive from Monterey Drive to Quentin Avenue
The permit will cover sidewalk construction being completed under Project No. 03-01A (3rd year
of the City Sidewalk Program) and Project No. 03-11 (Park Commons Drive sidewalk
construction).
As a condition of the permit issuance and in accordance with the MCWD rules a Maintenance
Agreement must be executed with the Watershed District. The proposed Agreement with the
MCWD commits the City to insuring the above roadway segments are swept twice a year, once
in the Spring and again in the Fall. The City’s current sweeping operations meet the permit
requirements. No additional work effort is needed to meet this sweeping commitment. This
agreement is similar to others that have been approved with the Watershed District for the other
sidewalk construction projects. The City Attorney, Mr. Tom Scott, has reviewed the proposed
Maintenance Agreement and authorized its submittal to the City Council for consideration.
Attachment: Agreement
Prepared by: Maria Hagen, City Engineer
Reviewed by: Michael P. Rardin, Director of Public Works
Approved by: Charles W. Meyer, City Manager
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4f - MCWD Maint Agmt
Page 2 of 3
STORMWATER FACILITY MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
This Maintenance Agreement is made this day of , 2003, by and
between the CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK, a Minnesota municipal corporation, hereinafter
referred to as “City”, and the MINNEHAHA CREEK WATERSHED DISTRICT, a public
body corporate and politic under the laws of the State of Minnesota, hereinafter referred to as
“MCWD” to provide for the street sweeping roadway facilities constructed pursuant to MCWD
permit application number 03-XXX.
WHEREAS, the City has applied for a permit from the MCWD pursuant to MCWD
Rule N, application attached hereto as Attachment 1; and
WHEREAS, the property which is the subject of this Agreement is described in
Attachment 1 to this Agreement; and
WHEREAS, the streets and other parts of the construction project will be public
improvements under the control of the City and County, and
WHEREAS, MCWD Rule N provides, “A maintenance agreement shall be submitted
for: stormwater treatment ponds, outlet structures for such ponds, culverts, outfall structures and
all other stormwater facilities. This maintenance agreement shall specify methods, schedule and
responsible parties for maintenance and must include at a minimum, the elements contained in
the District’s Maintenance Agreement Form.”
NOW, THEREFORE IT IS MUTUALLY AGREED by and between the parties:
1. The City or its designee will upon completion of the public improvements and in
accordance with its local Comprehensive Water Resources Management Plan
sweep the following locations in the spring and fall of each year, and remove all
sediment and debris:
• Alabama Avenue from 36th Street to 37th Street
• Alabama Avenue from Goodrich Avenue to 39th Street
• Texas Avenue from Minnetonka Blvd. to 31st Street
• Texas Avenue from 32 ½ Street to 36th/Walker Street
• Aquila Avenue from 36th Street to 34th Street
• Aquila Avenue from Highway 7 to 37th Street
• Wooddale Avenue from Oxford Street to Highway 100 entrance ramp
• Wooddale Avenue from Highway 7 to 36th Street
• 36th Street from Wooddale Avenue to Alabama Avenue
• Park Commons Drive from Monterey Drive to Quentin Avenue
a. Violation of the inspection and/or maintenance provisions of this
agreement is a violation of the MCWD permit for the project for which the
MCWD may take action against Applicant.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4f - MCWD Maint Agmt
Page 3 of 3
b. This agreement will be for an initial term of five years and will
automatically renew every five years thereafter unless otherwise agreed to
by the parties.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto execute this Maintenance Agreement.
Dated: CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK
By:
Jeffrey W. Jacobs, Mayor
By:
Charles W. Meyer, City Manager
Dated: MINNEHAHA CREEK
WATERSHED DISTRICT
By:
Its:
STATE OF MINNESOTA )
) ss.
COUNTY OF HENNEPIN)
The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me this day of
, 2003, by Jeffrey W. Jacobs and Charles W. Meyer, respectively the
Mayor and City Manager of the CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK, a Minnesota municipal
corporation, on behalf of the corporation and pursuant to the authority granted by its City
Council.
Notary Public
THIS INSTRUCMENT WAS DRAFTED BY:
Campbell Knutson
Professional Association
1380 Corporate Center Curve, Suite 317
Eagan, Minnesota 55121
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4g - Plan Com minutes 8-6-03
Page 1 of 7
OFFICIAL MINUTES
PLANNING COMMISSION
ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
August 6, 2003 -- 6:00 P.M.
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
MEMBERS PRESENT: Michelle Bissonnette, Phillip Finkelstein, Dennis Morris, Carl
Robertson, Jerry Timian
MEMBERS ABSENT: Ken Gothberg
STAFF PRESENT: Judie Erickson, Julie Grove, Janet Jeremiah, Nancy Sells
OTHERS PRESENT: Greg Ingraham, Consultant
1. Call to order - Roll Call
Chair Robertson called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
2. Approval of Minutes of July 16, 2003
Commissioner Morris moved to approve the minutes of July 16, 2003. The motion
passed 4-0-1. (Commissioner Bissonnette abstained).
3. Hearings:
A. Case No. 03-44-PUD--Request of Methodist Hospital for a Preliminary PUD to
allow a phased expansion--6700 Excelsior Boulevard
Planning Associate Julie Grove presented a staff report. Ms. Grove reported that
Methodist Hospital is requesting approval for a preliminary PUD for Phase I and concept
approval for future phases, which the applicant is calling Phase II. Ms. Grove reported
that a PUD modification to the R-C District height restriction is also being requested for
the existing eight-story hospital building and a mechanical penthouse on top of the
proposed six-story Heart and Vascular Center.
As a condition of approval, staff is recommending that elevations of the entire hospital be
submitted prior to City Council consideration; at this time, only elevations for the
proposed Heart and Vascular Center have been received. Staff is recommending the
amount of metal be reduced or material changed on the penthouse in order to make it
appear less industrial.
Ms. Grove said the floor and ground floor area ratios factor in the entire lot area,
including wetlands. Ms. Grove said, in the event of future expansion, staff is
recommending a limit be placed on the height of the parking ramp or it may be so stated
in a resolution as an elevation limit. Ms. Grove said a higher standard of lighting is
preferred and a lighting plan with the final PUD can address issues for its final design.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4g - Plan Com minutes 8-6-03
Page 2 of 7
Ms. Grove said, at this time, signage is nonconforming. Methodist Hospital would have
to come into compliance or a variance may be issued with the final PUD. If applying for
a variance, staff would like a variance application with the final PUD process.
In response to questions about traffic, Ms. Jeremiah stated that traffic issues reviewed in
the recent Methodist EAW were comprehensive in operational terms, but pedestrian
safety issues were not reviewed. Discussion needs to take place with Hennepin County
regarding any proposed changes affecting Excelsior Boulevard.
Chair Robertson said he strongly encourages the use of light, architectural metal on the
penthouse, and given how the metal would wrap around the building gives it a very
strong design—he believes a change would weaken it.
Duane Spiegle, Vice President Real Estate, Park Nicollet Health Services, said the overall
plan has changed due to neighborhood involvement, and it has been a very effective
process. Mr. Spiegle said, generally, Park Nicollet is in agreement with the staff
recommendations. He said that discussions need to occur with Hennepin County
regarding Excelsior Blvd. modifications and the Louisiana Ave. access. He commented
on recent improvements made for pedestrian safety near the warehouse building. Mr.
Spiegle stated that Park Nicollet will be working with a sign consultant for the project.
Parking maps will be provided. He added that more shuttlebuses will be routing people
around temporarily during construction. He stated that there will be challenges during
construction and Park Nicollet is very sensitive to the concerns of patients, the
neighborhood and staff during construction.
Mr. Spiegle anticipates no increase in helicopter deliveries, which is slightly more than
one per month.
Commissioner Finkelstein favors a one-way street design due to an increase of
ambulatory patients using the new Heart and Vascular Center. He encouraged the
creation of a Louisiana Avenue entrance.
Commissioner Bissonnette made two corrections to the report regarding dates of
neighborhood meetings: change November 19 and 21, 2003 to November 19 and 21,
2002, and change December 11, 2003 to December 2002.
Chair Robertson opened the public hearing.
Randy Manthey, 3979 Dakota Avenue South, discussed the process, clarification points,
specific conditions, and presented a summary.
Mr. Manthey said the building height definition needs to be a function of elevation based
on the distance from the property line and using the 1:5 ratio wedge. Planning and
Zoning Supervisor Janet Jeremiah said she will check on the exact elevation that would
be allowed. Mr. Manthey said there is no berm. Mr. Manthey said the Bufferyard F
should not be a condition because it is required by ordinance (he referenced page 9 of the
staff report).
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4g - Plan Com minutes 8-6-03
Page 3 of 7
Mr. Manthey discussed the following conditions for consideration:
The PUD process allows for a public hearing for final—a public hearing should
be recommended by the Planning Commission.
What is the nature of the intersection at Excelsior Blvd.? The neighborhood
proposes that a condition be to require a specific traffic study for that area. The
EAW only looked at the level of service.
As part of Phase I, the Louisiana Avenue entrance should be upgraded to look like
a main entrance.
For the Bufferyard F parking ramp, the neighbors would like interior screening to
be of opaque material at the edges on the neighborhood side.
Neighbors would like a six-foot tall opaque parapet wall on the top level of the
parking ramp, only on the neighborhood side of the hospital.
The hospital shall provide computer generated design to avoid surprises.
Lighting is a huge issue for the neighbors; fix it once and for all for the long term.
The lighting criteria from the staff and the applicant is confusing. A photometric
plan does not look at subjective criteria. Do request written criteria of the lighting
design requirements for the interior, top, internal roads, and any building lighting.
The staff report states design principles should be generally adhered to, however,
neighbors want it to state that design principles shall be adhered to.
Ramp height is not a function of vertical measurements but how the ordinance is
written for defining height.
Mr. Manthey asked for the Planning Commission's support in protecting the
neighborhood. He said it is an important facility, and a PUD allows excess height, but in
return the neighborhood expects some protection.
Steve Steuck, 8812 West 36th Street, asked for a comparison of the height of the
Tourtellotte Building to the proposed building; and how many additional car spaces will
be added? Mr. Spiegle said currently there are 302 stalls and Park Nicollet is looking to
go to a maximum of 500. The Tourtellotte Building is four stories and the new building
is proposed to be six stories.
Cynthia Chamberlain, 3990 Dakota, said she agreed with Mr. Manthey's comments. She
added that lighting is a huge neighborhood concern. Ms. Chamberlain said the
neighborhood needs to see a computer generated design of the project.
Chair Robertson closed the public hearing.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4g - Plan Com minutes 8-6-03
Page 4 of 7
Commissioner Morris would like clarification of Phase I and Phase II bufferyard
installation as a condition.
Commissioner Bissonnette moved to recommend approval of the Preliminary PUD
subject to the conditions in the staff report; she asked that further consideration be given
to the comments voiced by the neighborhood. The motion passed 4-0-1. (Commissioner
Finkelstein abstained).
B. Case Nos. 03-37-CP and 03-38-PUD--Request by Silver Crest Properties for an
amendment to the City's Comprehensive Plan and preliminary Planned Unit
Development approval for a residential senior housing development--3601, 3633
and 3663 Park Center Boulevard
Greg Ingraham, Planning Consultant for the City of St. Louis Park, presented a staff
report regarding the request of SilverCrest Properties. Mr. Ingraham stated that the
developer proposes to build a 150-unit, 14-story residential senior building on the 1.91
acre site currently occupied by the Park Center three-story office building at 3601 Park
Center Blvd. The PUD would combine the previous approvals of the existing Parkshore
developments at 3633 and 3663 Park Center Blvd. with the new proposal. The three
properties would be included in the approved Redevelopment Plan and PUD.
In response to a question about how a new north-south roadway recommended by the
Park Commons West Study would affect access to this property, Ms. Jeremiah said the
north-south roadway and other potential traffic improvements for Park Commons West
are currently being studied as part of an EAW for future expansion of the Park Nicollet
medical clinic. The EAW will probably be heard in about October, and the EAW and
traffic study will include a 10% design concept for the roadway.
Mr. Ingraham said staff is recommending a driveway connection among the three
properties and a right-in/right-out/left-in driveway for the 3601 property, at least until
more comprehensive traffic improvements are made. Mr. Ingraham said staff is
recommending approval of the Comprehensive Plan amendment and approval of the
preliminary development plans but with a fair number of modifications and conditions.
Commissioner Morris inquired that the need for an EAW for the project can be
negotiated. Ms. Jeremiah said yes, one can call for a discretionary EAW. However, the
primary issue is traffic, and that is already being studied. Ms. Jeremiah said staff would
like to include language that the applicant work with the City to resolve the access issues
as the recommendations from the broader traffic and north/south roadway study come
forward.
Chair Robertson said he is not comfortable with a seven-foot curb-to-building setback
because it is too close. Mr. Ingraham said there is probably room to increase that
distance.
Mike Gould, SilverCrest Properties, addressed the Planning Commission, and introduced
the project’s architect Peter Pfister.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4g - Plan Com minutes 8-6-03
Page 5 of 7
Mr. Pfister, Pfister & Associates Architects, listed some site issues. Mr. Pfister said they
are proposing to move an access point about 80 feet south to improve operations at the
36th Street intersection; they would like to keep site access open until the preliminary
study of the north/south roadway is finished; address safety issues regarding the parking
area; and address the shading analysis. Mr. Pfister reviewed shading effects on the future
skate park and future retail building to the northeast.
Commissioner Morris asked if any of the office space on the first floor is anticipated to
be rented office. Mr. Gould said no, the offices would be strictly for SilverCrest
Properties. Commissioner Morris asked what guarantee can be offered in the PUD that it
will remain strictly SilverCrest offices. Ms. Jeremiah said restrictions can be stated in the
PUD that the office must be related to the residential use; the office would not be looked
at as a separate use for parking requirements as long as it is the management office for
the residential.
Mr. Gould said price ranges are projected to be about $200,000-500,000, and the units
will be condominiums not co-ops.
Ms. Jeremiah said the earliest the preliminary would go to Council would be about
September 2nd, final could go to the Planning Commission in early October, and final
could go to Council perhaps as early as November. Ms. Jeremiah said staff is still
waiting for the traffic information from the EAW, so staff would like the conditions to
address future recommendations from that study. In response to a question regarding
how the proposed height fits with policies for the area, Ms. Jeremiah noted that a 13-
story building was anticipated, so this is an increase of one story. It would provide an
urban appearance for the town center and further frame the park. The lower Assisted
Living Family facility would provide a break between the two taller buildings in a
manner that is common in urban environments.
Chair Robertson opened the public hearing.
John McCain, 3440 Belt Line Blvd., expressed his concerns about the project. Mr.
McCain said shading would appear to cover his entire building to the northeast. Mr.
McCain said the staff report does not take that into account. He said there may be
possible interference with communications via satellite for his future tenants in the
building, and he is concerned about the placement of the mechanical operations and,
subsequently, the noise and view.
Ms. Jeremiah said the shading ordinance is considered for each individual building, i.e., it
could not cover more than 50% of any building for more than two hours a day between
the hours of 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., and for more than 60 days of the year. Ms. Jeremiah
said the architect will look more closely at that and will have to provide evidence that the
ordinance is met before Council approval of the preliminary PUD.
Chair Robertson closed the public hearing.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4g - Plan Com minutes 8-6-03
Page 6 of 7
Commissioner Morris favors the proposal but it is necessary to look at this in the context
of the north side of 36th Street and future development.
Chair Robertson reiterated his concern regarding the seven-foot curb-to-building setback,
and he would favor losing some of the five feet on the west side of the parking landscape
area to increase the curb-to-building setback to ten feet.
Commissioner Finkelstein said he likes the idea of a green gable design to match the
other two buildings and unify the properties if it does not add to the shading problem.
Chair Robertson said the architect has a challenge to make the building the very best it
can be as it will dominate the area.
Commissioner Morris moved to recommend approval of amendments to the City’s
Comprehensive Plan and the preliminary Planned Unit Development, subject to the
conditions as recommended by staff; he asked staff to further consider the spirit of the
conditions as discussed tonight. The motion passed 5-0.
4. Unfinished Business
5. New Business
A. Consent Agenda: None
At 8:45 p.m., Chair Robertson announced a five-minute recess.
B. Other New Business
i.) Case No. 03-14-PUD--Request of SLP Motors, LLC for a Final PUD to
redevelop the Win Stephen Buick Pontiac property for Westside
Volkswagen at 2370 and 2440 State Highway 100 S.
Planning Coordinator Judie Erickson presented a staff report. Ms. Erickson said that this
is the Final PUD and the Planning Commission held a public hearing on the Preliminary
PUD on June 18, 2003. The only outstanding issues are the location of the pedestrian
crossing at Stevens Drive and two minor issues with the utility plan.
Ms. Erickson suggested adding the following conditions: 1) require that the utility plan
be corrected; and 2) crosswalk location be reviewed to evaluate the stopping distance
from the ramps prior to City Council review.
Tim O’Dougherty, Luther Automotive Group said staff’s conditions, as presented by Ms.
Erickson tonight, are acceptable.
Commissioner Finkelstein moved to recommend approval of the Final PUD subject to the
conditions in the staff report; and to include the conditions stated by Ms. Erickson. The
motion passed 5-0.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 4g - Plan Com minutes 8-6-03
Page 7 of 7
6. Communications
A. Recent City Council Action - July 21, 2003, August 4, 2003
B. Other
i.) Board of Zoning Appeals minutes June 26
ii.) Board of Zoning Appeals agenda July 24
7. Miscellaneous
8. Adjournment
Chair Robertson adjourned the meeting at 8:50 p.m.
Minutes prepared by: Respectfully submitted by:
Linda Samson Nancy Sells
Recording Secretary Administrative Secretary
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8a - City HRA levy
Page 1 of 2
8a. Resolution authorizing an HRA levy
Council authorization of HRA levy as approved on EDA agenda
Recommended
Action:
Adopt resolution setting HRA levy for 2004
Background:
At the July 28, 2003 study session, the HRA levy was discussed. At that time, the Council
indicated they would like to proceed with the HRA levy for taxes payable in 2004. If approved,
this will be the third year that the Council has authorized a HRA levy.
The EDA is required to approve this levy as well as the City Council. As outlined in the
resolution, the HRA levy cannot exceed .0144 percent of the taxable market value of the City.
As of August 11, 2003, the market value of the City is $3,771,698,700. This market value
allows the City to levy $543,125 for taxes payable 2004.
The proposed 2004 levy amount of $543,125 is $46,603 higher than 2003. This is due to
increased taxable market valuation. Staff will review market values prior to final certification in
December. The levy amount is included as part of the Development Fund budget. Levy
proceeds are to be used for infrastructure improvements in redevelopment areas.
Recommendation: Adopt resolution setting HRA levy for 2004.
Attachments: Resolution
Prepared By: Jean D. McGann, Director of Finance
Approved By: Charles W. Meyer, City Manager
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8a - City HRA levy
Page 2 of 2
RESOLUTION NO. 03 - ____
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HRA LEVY FOR 2004
WHEREAS, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Section 469.090 to 469.108 (the “EDA
Act”), the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park created the St. Louis Park Economic
Development Authority (the "Authority"); and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the EDA Act, the City Council granted to the Authority all of
the powers and duties of a housing and redevelopment authority under the provisions of the
Minnesota Statutes, sections 469.001 to 469.047 (the "HRA Act"); and
WHEREAS, Section 469.033, subdivision 6 of the Act authorizes the Authority to levy a
tax upon all taxable property within the City to be expended for the purposes authorized by the
HRA Act; and
WHEREAS, such levy may be in an amount not to exceed 0.0144 percent of taxable
market value of the City; and
WHEREAS, the Authority has filed its budget for the special benefit levy in accordance
with the budget procedures of the City; and
WHEREAS, based upon such budgets the Authority will levy all or such portion of the
authorized levy as it deems necessary and proper;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the St. Louis Park City Council:
1. That approval is hereby given for the Authority to levy, for taxes payable in 2004,
such tax upon the taxable property of the City as the Authority may determine, subject to the
limitations contained in the HRA Act.
Approved this 2nd day of September, 2003, by the City Council of the City of St. Louis
Park.
Reviewed for Administration
City Manager Mayor
Attest:
City Clerk
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8b - Prelim Tax Levy 2004
Page 1 of 4
8b. Approve preliminary 2004 property tax levy, budget for the 2004 fiscal year,
revisions to the 2003 adopted budget, and set Public Hearing date for on proposed
budget and property tax levy
Resolution approving the preliminary property tax levy and budget is required by Truth
in Taxation legislation. Information contained in the resolution will appear on the
individual tax notices prepared by the County.
Recommended
Action:
Motion to adopt the resolution establishing the preliminary tax
levy and budget for 2004, approves revisions to the 2003
adopted budget and sets public hearing date for proposed budget
and property tax levy.
Background: The 2004 proposed budget and the 2003-revised budget were reviewed by the City
Council at the July 28, 2003 study session. By law, the City Council must approve a preliminary
tax levy and budget for 2004 and submit the tax levy certification to the County by September
15, 2003. The County will mail out parcel specific notices to affected taxpayers on or before
November 22, 2003. Final action of the levy and 2004 budget will not occur until the second
Council meeting in December.
It is proposed that the preliminary levy certification be set at the maximum levy allowed by the
State. In addition, the City will levy for the 1999 General Obligation Bond, 2003 General
Obligation Bond, PERA increase from 2003 to 2004, and an HRA levy. The HRA levy will be
handled separately from the City levy.
Property Tax Levy:
For fiscal year 2004, a total levy of $16,323,715 is proposed. This represents a property tax
increase when compared to the 2003 adopted budget of approximately .07% to the general fund
budget. The overall property tax levy increase is approximately 11%. This increase is
attributable to the following;
2003 General Obligation Debt (1st year of levy) $ 512,600
Loss of Local Government Aid (60% eligible for levy) $1,283,258
PERA Employers Contribution Decrease $ (4,471)
Total levy increase $1,791,387
The total levy helps to support the operations of the General Fund, Park and Recreation
operations and Park Improvements. A portion of the levy is dedicated to the retirement of
General Obligation Debt. The allocation of property taxes is indicated in the chart below.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8b - Prelim Tax Levy 2004
Page 2 of 4
Legislative requirements provide that Cities hold a “Truth in Taxation” public hearing related to
the budget. Staff is recommending holding the budget, (Truth in Taxation), hearing on
December 1, 2003 to discuss the proposed 2004 budget as well as the legislative changes. This
will assist in clarifying the budget status for, and allow input from, the public. Staff also
recommends setting December 8, 2003 as a continuation date for the Public Hearing if needed.
Recommendation: Approve resolution setting the preliminary 2004 tax levy, 2004 budget, 2003
revised budget and setting public hearing date on proposed budget and property tax levy.
Attachments: Resolution
Prepared By: Jean D. McGann, Director of Finance
Approved By: Charles W. Meyer, City Manager
Levy 2002/2003 2003/2004
General Fund 11,261,020$ 12,069,320$
Parks and Recreation Fund 2,763,323 2,488,822
Park Improvement Fund 182,485 927,473
1999 GO Debt 329,400 325,500
2003 GO Debt - 512,600
Total Levy 14,536,228$ 16,323,715$
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8b - Prelim Tax Levy 2004
Page 3 of 4
RESOLUTION NO. 03 - _____
RESOLUTION APPROVING PROPOSED 2003 TAX LEVY, COLLECTIBLE IN 2004,
APPROVING PROPOSED BUDGET FOR 2004, REVISED BUDGET FOR 2003 AND
SETTING PUBLIC HEARING DATE FOR PROPOSED BUDGET AND PROPERTY
TAX LEVY
WHEREAS, The City of St. Louis Park is required by Charter and State law to approve a
resolution setting forth an annual tax levy to the Hennepin County Auditor; and
WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes currently in force require approval of a proposed property tax
levy and a preliminary budget on or before September 15th of each year; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has received the proposed budget document;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park
that the preliminary 2004 budget for all Governmental Funds, Enterprise funds and Internal
Service funds shall be as follows:
Revenues:Appropriations
General Property Taxes 16,326,715$ Personal Services 19,824,582$
Licenses and Permits 2,078,000 Supplies Services and other Charges 20,795,486
Intergovernmental 1,981,707 Capital Outlay 2,194,969
Charges for Services 3,147,226 Transfer Out 2,593,521
Fines, Forfeits and penalties 298,000
Enterprise 9,083,945
Special Assessments 111,083
Miscellaneous 3,010,269
Transfer In 4,941,703
Total Revenue 40,978,648$ Total Appropriations 45,408,558$
Fund Balance/Reserves - Jan. 1 65,872,578$ Fund Balance/Reserves - Dec. 31 61,442,668$
Total Available 106,851,226$ Total Available 106,851,226$
AVAILABLE RESOURCES:REQUIREMENTS:
And as supported by the proposed budget document; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Public Hearing required by Truth in Taxation
legislation will be held on December 1, 2003; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park, Hennepin
County, Minnesota, that the following sums of money be levied in 2003, collectible in 2004 upon
the taxable property in said City of St. Louis Park for the following purposes:
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General Fund 12,069,320$
Park and Recreation Fund 2,488,822
Park Improvement Fund 927,473
GO Debt Service 838,100
Total 16,323,715$
And
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to transmit
a certified copy of this resolution to the County Auditor of Hennepin County, Minnesota and to
the Local Government Aids/Analysis Division, Department of Revenue, State of Minnesota as
required by law.
Reviewed for Administration Adopted by the City Council September 2, 2003
City Manager Mayor
Attest:
City Clerk
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Item: 090203 - 8c - Solid Waste Ordinance 2nd rdg
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8c. 2nd Reading of an Ordinance amending Chapter 22 of the St. Louis Park Code of
Ordinances relating to Solid Waste Management, creating standards for
collection of refuse/garbage, recycling, and yard waste as well as for composting
for residential properties.
Recommended
Action:
Motion to Approve Second Reading of Proposed Amendments to
Chapter 22 of St. Louis Park Ordinance Code relating to Solid
Waste Management, creating standards for collection of
refuse/garbage, recycling, yard waste, and composting, adopt
ordinance, approve summary, and authorize publication.
BACKGROUND:
Solid Waste Program Goals include:
• High quality service
• Environmental stewardship
• Cost effective services
• Effective communication and continual evaluation of program and industry
On Monday, September 18, 2003, Council discussed the proposed changes to the Solid Waste
Management ordinance needed to implement the approved changes in the City’s Solid Waste
Program. Council supported all ordinance changes except cart storage location requirements
during non-collection times and the time requirement by which carts need to be retrieved from
their collection location. Council requested staff propose revisions to address these concerns.
On Monday, August 25, 2003, staff provided Council with proposed revisions to address the
concerns raised on September 18. The revisions proposed would:
• Require carts to be stored indoors or, if stored outdoors, they would have to be located
behind the building line adjacent to any street or alley right-of-way line.
• Allow carts or bags to remain at their collection location until 7:00 p.m. the day they are
collected.
• Correct a technical error revising the wording that allows for charging a service charge for
garbage/refuse collection for residential dwelling which mixes refuse with yard waste.
After reviewing the proposed revisions, Council expressed a desire to retain the original sideyard
setback of four (4) feet which would not allow carts to be stored outdoors within four (4) feet of
an interior lot line.
PROPOSED REVISIONS TO FIRST READING:
Listed below are the three (3) sections of the Ordinance that Council requested staff to revise and
the proposed revisions.
Sec. 22-35. Precollection practices. (original)
(c) Duty to maintain containers in sanitary condition. Except when placed out for collection
that day, garbage and refuse carts shall be located by the owner, tenant, lessee or
occupant of the premises at least four feet from any neighboring dwelling or structure,
outside of any street or alley right of way not visible from the street or alley, and in such
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Item: 090203 - 8c - Solid Waste Ordinance 2nd rdg
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a manner to prevent them from being overturned. The owner, tenant, lessee or occupant
of the premises…
Sec. 22-35. Precollection practices. (revised)
(c) Duty to maintain containers in sanitary condition. Except when placed out for collection
that day, garbage and refuse carts shall be located by the owner, tenant, lessee or
occupant of the premises inside a building or outside on the property. If located
outside the carts must be located behind the building line adjacent to any street or
alley right-of-way line. Carts must also be placed four (4) feet or more from interior
lot lines. Carts should be placed in such a manner to prevent them from being
overturned. The owner, tenant, lessee or occupant of the premises…
The revision above generally allows for outdoor cart storage alongside or behind homes, but no
closer than four (4) feet to an interior lot line. Allowable outdoor storage areas are shown on the
attached drawing – Cart Storage Area.
Sec. 22-36. Collection practices. (original)
(a) Frequency of collection. Garbage and refuse accumulated at residential properties shall
be collected at least once a week. Garbage and refuse accumulated at stores, restaurants,
other businesses and institutions shall be collected no less than once each week and as
often as once each business day if necessary to protect the public health. Collection by
the authorized city residential garbage and refuse collection contractor will take place
between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Fridays and 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on
Saturdays when necessary. Items from residences shall be placed out for collection
curbside or alley side by 7:00 a.m. on their designated collection day, and the carts or
containers shall be retrieved as soon as practical after collection but no later than 7:00
p.m. No cart, container, bag, item or material shall be allowed to remain in its collection
location for more than 24 hours.
Sec. 22-36. Collection practices. (revised)
(a) Frequency of collection. Garbage and refuse accumulated at residential properties shall
be collected at least once a week. Garbage and refuse accumulated at stores, restaurants,
other businesses and institutions shall be collected no less than once each week and as
often as once each business day if necessary to protect the public health. Collection by
the authorized city residential garbage and refuse collection contractor will take place
between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Fridays and 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on
Saturdays when necessary. Items from residences shall be placed out for collection
curbside or alley side by 7:00 a.m. on their designated collection day, and the carts or
containers shall be retrieved as soon as practical after collection but no later than 7:00 p.m. on
the day of collection.
This revision allows for carts or bags (garbage) to remain at the collection site until picked-up.
The 24 hour limitation was removed.
Sec. 22-37. Garbage/refuse service rates. (original)
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(c) A service charge in an amount set from time to time by the city and listed in appendix A
of this Code shall be added to the quarterly service charge for garbage/refuse collection
for residential dwelling yard waste.
Sec. 22-37. Garbage/refuse service rates. (revised)
(c) A service charge in an amount set from time to time by the city and listed in appendix A
of this Code shall be added to the quarterly service charge for garbage/refuse collection for
residential dwelling which mixes refuse with yard waste.
This is a technical correction adding several words inadvertently left off the first reading version.
DISCUSSION:
Staff has incorporated Council requested changes, as shown above, into the Ordinance
(attached), but has reservations over the provision requiring outdoor carts to be four (4) feet or
more from interior lot lines. It appears to staff that hundreds of residents will be in
noncompliance with this provision of the new Ordinance. Many garbage cans are currently
located next to garages within the 4 foot setback in violation of this requirement. Many residents
have elaborate paved areas where cans are currently stored that will no longer be usable. Staff is
also concerned that if enforcement is required that resources will have to be diverted from other
programs of higher importance.
Attachments: Cart Storage Area
Ordinance
Ordinance Summary
Prepared by: Scott Merkley, Public Works Coordinator
Through: Michael Rardin, Public Works Director
Approved by: Charles W. Meyer, City Manager
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ORDINANCE NO. ______ - 03
CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK
HENNEPIN COUNTY, MINNESOTA
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 22 OF THE ST. LOUIS PARK
CODE OF ORDINANCES RELATING TO SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT
THE CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK DOES ORDAIN:
SECTION 1. Chapter 22 of the St. Louis Park Code of Ordinances is amended to read in
its entirety as follows:
Article I. In General
Sec. 22-1. Construction debris containers (dumpsters).
Secs. 22-2--22-30. Reserved.
Article II. Garbage Collection
Division 1. Generally
Sec. 22-31. Short title.
Sec. 22-32. Definitions.
Sec. 22-33. Collection of garbage and refuse within the city.
Sec. 22-34. Collection supervised by director of public works.
Sec. 22-35. Precollection practices.
Sec. 22-36. Collection practices.
Sec. 22-37. Garbage/refuse service rates.
Sec. 22-38. Disposal.
Secs. 22-39--22-60. Reserved.
Division 2. Recycling
Sec. 22-61. Purpose of division.
Sec. 22-62. Definitions.
Sec. 22-63. Designation of items.
Sec. 22-64. Implementation.
Sec. 22-65. Ownership.
Sec. 22-66. Unauthorized collection.
Secs. 22-67--22-90. Reserved.
Division 3. Recycling for Multiple-Family Residential Structures
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Sec. 22-91. Purpose of division.
Sec. 22-92. Definitions.
Sec. 22-93. Separation and storage.
Sec. 22-94. Collection.
Sec. 22-95. Disposal.
Secs. 22-95--22-99. Reserved.
ARTICLE III. Composting
Sec. 22-96. Compost.
Sec. 22-97. Definitions.
Sec. 22-98. Duties of Owner, Occupant or Tenant.
Sec. 22-99. Duties of Licensed Collectors.
Sec. 22-100. Composting Process
Sec. 22-101 Nuisance.
Sec. 22-102 Existing Non-Conforming.
Sec. 22-103. Application to City Owned or Operated Compost Facilities.
ARTICLE I. IN GENERAL
Sec. 22-1. Construction debris containers (dumpsters).
(a) Purpose. The purpose of this section is to establish minimum standards for construction
debris containers (dumpsters) and similar containers used for the collection, storage or
transport of any construction, demolition debris, or other solid waste in volumes larger
than city provided containers or carts and to prohibit placement of these large containers
on city property.
(b) Definitions.
Construction debris container, as that term is used in this Chapter shall mean any four-
sided industry standard steel or plastic container used to collect, store or transport volumes of
waste or other materials in excess of city-provided containers or carts, including but not limited
to dumpsters, tubs, and pods.
(c) Regulations.
(1) The construction debris container shall be watertight; clearly labeled with the name and
phone number of the container owner. The debris or other materials stored within the
construction debris container shall not exceed three feet in height from the top of the
construction debris container, and shall not be used for storage of any refuse other than
construction or demolition debris unless totally sealed.
(2) The construction debris container shall be located outside of the city right-of-way. The
construction debris container shall not be located on an individual lot or parcel for more
than six months during any 12-month period.
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(3) The construction debris container shall be placed in a location that will ensure the least
possible obstruction to pedestrian and vehicular traffic, as well as provide for the safety
of the general public and residents living in the area.
(Ord. No. 2198-01, § 1, 5-21-2001)
Secs. 22-2--22-30. Reserved.
ARTICLE II. GARBAGE AND REFUSE COLLECTION
DIVISION 1. GENERALLY
Sec. 22-31. Short title.
This article shall be known and may be cited as the Garbage and Refuse Collection Ordinance of
the city.
(Code 1976, § 9-301)
Sec. 22-32. Definitions.
The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this article, shall have the meanings
ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:
Commercial establishment means any premises where a commercial or industrial
enterprise of any kind is carried on, and shall include clubs, churches and establishment of
nonprofit organizations where food is prepared or served or goods are sold.
Garbage means waste material, animal or vegetable, which results from the handling,
preparation, cooking, service, and consumption of food.
Incinerator means any device used for the destruction of refuse, rubbish or waste
materials by fire.
Licensed collector means any person holding a valid license from the city for the
collection of garbage, refuse, yard waste, recyclables or other materials covered by this Chapter.
Refuse means all wastes (except body wastes) including, but not limited to, rubbish, tin
cans, papers, Christmas trees, cardboard, grass clippings, ashes, glass jars and bottles, and wood
normally resulting from the operation of a household or business establishment, but not including
garbage, sod, dirt, rocks, construction material, cement, trees, leaves, hedge or tree trimmings, or
anything one person could not lift easily.
Residential dwelling means any single building consisting of four or fewer separate
dwelling units with individual kitchen facilities for each.
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Residential garbage and refuse collection contractor means any person with whom the
city contracts for collection of garbage and refuse from residential dwellings in the city.
Solid Waste Material or Material, unless otherwise qualified, means refuse, garbage,
recyclable materials, yard waste, appliances, bulk items and any other solid waste from
residential dwellings and activities that the generator of the waste aggregates for collection.
Yard waste means all compostable organic plant material that consists of grass clippings,
leaves, weeds, soft garden materials, Christmas trees, and brush and limbs under four inches in
diameter and four feet in length, if bundled with twine or other organic material.
(Code 1976, § 9-302)
Cross reference(s)--Definitions generally, § 1-2.
Sec. 22-33. Collection of garbage and refuse within the city.
Except as otherwise authorized by the city in this article, all garbage and refuse accumulated at
any residential dwelling in the city shall be collected, conveyed and disposed of by the
authorized city residential garbage and refuse collection contractor. The residential solid waste
collection contractor shall charge a fee for special pickup of garbage, refuse, yard waste or
recycling in an amount as determined by the City. This section does not prohibit the following
activities:
(1) The disposal of garbage by any device, which grinds and deposits the garbage in a sewer;
(2) The owner or occupant of any premises upon which garbage or refuse has accumulated
from personally conveying and disposing of such garbage or refuse in accordance with
the provisions of this article and with any other applicable law or ordinances;
(3) Collectors of refuse from outside of the city from hauling such refuse over city streets,
provided that such collectors comply with the provisions of this section and with any
other applicable laws or ordinances of the city; or
(4) Any licensed private garbage and refuse collector from hauling garbage or refuse from
any premises that is not a residential dwelling.
(Code 1976, § 9-303)
Sec. 22-34. Collection supervised by director of public works.
All garbage and refuse collected, conveyed and disposed of by the city shall be under the
supervision of the director of public works. The city manager shall have the authority to make
regulations concerning the days of collection, type and location of waste containers, and such
other matters pertaining to the collection, conveyance and disposal as he/she shall find necessary,
and to change and modify the regulations in accordance with the provisions of this article and
contract between the city and its garbage and refuse collection contractor. Any person aggrieved
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by a regulation of, or fee charged by the city manager shall have the right of appeal to the city
council which shall have the authority to confirm, modify or revoke any such regulation or fee.
(Code 1976, § 9-304)
Sec. 22-35. Precollection practices.
(a) Preparation of garbage and refuse. All garbage and refuse as accumulated on any
premises other than bulk items, appliances, and yard waste shall be placed and
maintained in city provided containers and shall have drained from it all free liquids
before being deposited for collection, and shall be placed in sealed bags or wrapped. If
any residential dwelling has more garbage and refuse than will fit into the cart(s), the
resident may purchase an "extra refuse" sticker from the City, place the garbage or refuse
in a securely sealed bag for collection, affix the sticker, and place the bag in the same
location and at the same time for collection as the cart(s). No explosive or highly
inflammable material shall be deposited or placed for collection. Such material shall be
disposed of as directed by the fire chief at the expense of the owner or possessor.
(b) Contagious disease refuse. Refuse such as, but not limited to, bedding, wearing apparel
or utensils from residential dwelling units or other units where highly infectious or
contagious diseases are present shall not be deposited for regular collection, but shall be
disposed of as directed by the health department at the expense of the owner or possessor.
(c) (c) Duty to maintain containers in sanitary condition. Except when placed out for
collection that day, garbage and refuse carts shall be located by the owner, tenant, lessee
or occupant of the premises inside a building or outside on the property. If located
outside the carts must be located behind the building line adjacent to any street or alley
right-of-way line. Carts must also be placed four (4) feet or more from interior lot lines.
Carts should be placed in such a manner to prevent them from being overturned. The
owner, tenant, lessee or occupant of the premises is responsible for providing yard waste
containers or bags. Yard waste containers and bags shall not exceed forty pounds when
filled and shall be of a size and nature to be easily handled and lifted by a single person.
All containers shall be kept in a clean and sanitary condition and kept free from any
substance, which will attract or breed flies, mosquitoes or other insects. No container
shall have ragged or sharp edges or any other defect liable to hamper or injure the person
collecting the contents. Containers not complying with the requirements of this article
shall be promptly replaced upon notice. The director shall have the authority to refuse
collection services for failure to comply herewith.
(d) Garbage and refuse containers. Garbage and refuse containers shall be kept tightly
covered when there is garbage therein. Containers for residential collection under the
city’s contract will be provided by the City.
(e) Points of collection. Garbage and refuse containers shall be placed for collection in one
place at ground level on the property, not within the right-of-way of a street or alley, and
as remote as possible from any surrounding dwellings, and accessible to the street or
alley from which collection is made. All containers which contain yard waste must be
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placed on the abutting alley if there be one, or upon the boulevard area of the street for
collection by the city.
(Code 1976, § 9-305)
Sec. 22-36. Collection practices.
(a) Frequency of collection. Garbage and refuse accumulated at residential properties shall
be collected at least once a week. Garbage and refuse accumulated at stores, restaurants,
other businesses and institutions shall be collected no less than once each week and as
often as once each business day if necessary to protect the public health. Collection by
the authorized city residential garbage and refuse collection contractor will take place
between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Fridays and 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on
Saturdays when necessary. Items from residences shall be placed out for collection
curbside or alley side by 7:00 a.m. on their designated collection day, and the carts or
containers shall be retrieved as soon as practical after collection but no later than 7:00
p.m. on the day of collection.
(b) Collection by actual producers and outside collectors. The actual producers of refuse, or
the owners of premises upon which refuse is accumulated, who desire personally to
collect and dispose of such refuse, persons who desire to dispose of waste material not
collected by the city, and private collectors of refuse and garbage from outside of the city
who desire to haul over the streets of the city, shall use a vehicle provided with a tight
cover and so operated and maintained as to prevent offensive odors escaping therefrom,
and refuse from being blown, dropped or spilled from the vehicle. Such receptacles on
vehicles shall be kept clean and as free from offensive odors as possible and shall not be
allowed to stand in any street, alley or other place longer than is reasonably necessary to
collect garbage and refuse. The collector shall comply with ordinances of the city and
laws or regulations of the state relating to sanitation and collection of garbage and refuse.
The collector shall keep all equipment used in the performance of the work in a clean,
sanitary condition and shall thoroughly disinfect each vehicle at least once a week unless
the vehicle has not been used since its last disinfection.
(c) Refuse property of city. Ownership of garbage and refuse material set out for collection
and collected by the city shall be vested in the city.
(Code 1976, § 9-306)
Sec. 22-37. Garbage/refuse service rates.
(a) A service charge for garbage/refuse collection, including recycling service, and yard
waste collection service, provided to residential dwelling units with the city shall be an
amount set from time to time by the city and listed in appendix A of this Code
(b) Each dwelling unit in a residential dwelling will be charged a service charge for
garbage/refuse collection and for yard waste collection, regardless of whether they utilize
the service, provided that residents with an extended absence from the city and non-use
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of service during that period may apply to the City for a temporary suspension of service
and charges.
(c) A service charge in an amount set from time to time by the city and listed in appendix A
of this Code shall be added to the quarterly service charge for garbage/refuse collection
for residential dwelling which mixes refuse with yard waste.
(d) Charges for the collection and disposal of garbage/refuse, bulk items, electronics,
appliances and yard waste shall be a charge against the owner, lessee, occupant, or all of
them of the premises served, any of whom shall be charged and billed for such service.
(e) Garbage/refuse bills will be mailed to customers for each quarter/year service period at
the rate shown in this subsection. The proceeds from collection of these bills shall be
placed in a separate fund. A penalty in an amount set from time to time by the city and
listed in appendix A of this Code shall be added to the amount due on any bill if not paid
within three weeks after the billing date. Payments received three working days following
the due date shall be deemed as paid within such period.
(f) All charges for garbage/refuse service shall be due and payable within three weeks after
the billing date; accounts shall be considered delinquent when not paid within three
working days following the date. Such charges shall be a charge against the owner of the
premises and shall be certified by the city clerk to the city assessor who shall prepare an
assessment roll each year providing for assessment of the delinquent amounts against the
respective properties served for collection as other taxes.
(g) The city council reserves the right to adjust the rates provided by this section from time to
time.
(Code 1976, § 9-307)
Sec. 22-38. Disposal.
(a) Private incineration. No garbage or refuse from any commercial or residential
establishment shall be disposed of by burning except in an incinerator of an approved
type as specified by ordinance of the city.
(b) Dumping. No garbage or refuse shall be disposed of by dumping or disposal at or on any
place within the city.
(c) Scattering of garbage or refuse. No person shall cast, spill, place, sweep or deposit
anywhere within the city any garbage or refuse in such a manner that it may be carried or
deposited by the elements upon any street, sidewalk, alley, sewer, parkway or other
public place, or into any other premises within the city.
(Code 1976, § 9-308)
Secs. 22-39--22-60. Reserved.
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DIVISION 2. RECYCLING
Sec. 22-61. Purpose of division.
This division is designed to ensure that a designated recycling program is conducted in an
orderly fashion to avoid adverse effects on the public health, welfare, safety and environment.
(Code 1976, § 9-309(1))
Sec. 22-62. Definitions.
The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this division, shall have the meanings
ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:
Authorized or designated recycling program means a program for the collection and recycling of
recyclable materials which is instituted, sponsored and controlled by the city.
Recyclable materials means all items of refuse which are part of an authorized recycling program
and which are intended for transportation, processing and remanufacturing, or reuse.
(Code 1976, § 9-309(2))
Cross reference(s)--Definitions generally, § 1-2.
Sec. 22-63. Designation of items.
A list of refuse items designated to be part of an authorized recycling program shall be prepared.
Such items must be ones which are generally accepted by the recycling industry for
remanufacture and reuse, which can be cleaned, prepared and stored in a manner to protect the
public health, welfare, safety or environment, and which can be collected and recycled without
threatening the economic viability of an authorized recycling program. This list shall be
published in the official newspaper. The list may be modified as circumstances warrant by
following the procedure specified for the original designation.
(Code 1976, § 9-309(3))
Sec. 22-64. Implementation.
All recyclable materials intended and set out for collection shall be cleaned, prepared and stored
in accordance with city specifications and shall be placed for collection in the same manner as
other materials. The City will provide recycling containers to residents. All recyclables must be
placed in the recycling containers provided by the city or in recyclable bags within the containers
to prevent litter and spillage. Except when placed out for pickup that day, recyclable materials
must be stored inside a dwelling or structure. Failure to use a city provided recycling container
may void the opportunity to participate in an authorized program and shall constitute a public
nuisance where such failure causes a threat to the public health, welfare, safety or environment
or results in a disorderly and unsightly collection or refuse visible to the public. All city
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provided recycling containers must be kept clean and sanitary by the resident and remain the
property of the city.
(Code 1976, § 9-309(4))
Sec. 22-65. Ownership.
Ownership of recyclable materials remains with the person or household from which the
materials originated until collected by designated collection programs. Upon removal by the city
or its designated agents or contractors from a designated collection point, ownership of properly
prepared and stored recyclable materials intended for a city authorized collection program shall
be vested in the city. Materials not prepared, cleaned or stored according to city specifications
shall remain the responsibility and property of the individuals or household from which the
materials originated. Nothing in this division shall abridge the right of an individual or household
to give or sell their recyclable materials to any recyclable materials program.
(Code 1976, § 9-309(5))
Sec. 22-66. Unauthorized collection.
No person other than one expressly authorized by the city council shall take or collect recyclable
material set out for authorized collection programs within the city.
(Code 1976, § 9-309(6))
Secs. 22-67--22-90. Reserved.
DIVISION 3. RECYCLING FOR MULTIPLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL STRUCTURES
Sec. 22-91. Purpose of division.
The purpose of this division is to require mandatory separation of recyclables, and to aid and
promote collection and disposal by means other than deposit in a sanitary landfill or by
incineration.
(Code 1976, § 9-309.101)
Sec. 22-92. Definitions.
The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this division, shall have the meanings
ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:
Multiple-family residential structure means any residential building consisting of five or more
apartments, townhomes or condominiums, or other living units.
Recyclables means newsprint, corrugated paper (cardboard), office paper, mail, magazines,
phone books, glass containers, aluminum foil and cans, tin cans, steel cans, bi-metal cans,
reasonably free of dirt, food and other contaminants, and plastic bottles. Also included as a
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recyclable is any other material that the city may hereafter be required to collect as a recyclable
by the county or its environmental department.
(Code 1976, § 9-309.102)
Cross reference(s)--Definitions generally, § 1-2.
Sec. 22-93. Separation and storage.
(a) It shall be the obligation and responsibility of the owners of each multiple-family
residential structure including, but not limited to, an apartment building, townhome
complex, townhome association, condominium complex, and condominium association
to have recycling containers available and accessible, and provide recycling collection
services at least twice each month to all residents residing within each structure.
(b) Every resident of every multiple-family residential structure shall separate the recyclables
from all other refuse, garbage, rubbish and waste matter, and shall store the recyclables in
containers designated as containers for the storage of recyclables.
(c) Containers with tight fitting lids for storage of recyclables shall be kept in the same
location as refuse containers; provided, however, that residents of those dwellings where
curbside or alleyside collection is available, shall place the recyclables and the containers
for recyclables at a place adjacent to the dwelling (or building in which the dwelling is
located) or garage accessory thereto and visible from the street in front of the dwelling
(or building in which the dwelling is located) or from the alley by the dwelling (or
building in which the dwelling is located) if that dwelling (or building in which the
dwelling is located) has refuse collection service at the alley. After the scheduled
collection, the containers for recycling and any materials not collected shall be returned
by the resident of such dwelling to the same location as containers for refuse are kept.
(Code 1976, § 9-309.103)
Sec. 22-94. Collection.
(a) Collection of recyclables from the multiple-family residential structure shall be by a
hauler selected and paid by the owners of the complex or by a manager of such or by a
management company of such or by an association governing such, but which hauler is
then duly licensed by the city under applicable ordinances of the city or county. Also,
such collection shall be done in compliance with all other applicable ordinances of the
city now or hereafter in effect.
(b) The owners or manager or management company or governing association of each
complex shall report to the city manager or the city manager's designee, upon written
request from time to time made by the city manager or the city manager's designee, and
on forms prescribed and provided by the city manager or the city manager's designee,
such information relative to the program for separation, storage, and collection of
recyclables then in effect for their complex as the city manager or the city manager's
designee shall then request. The owners or managers of each complex shall post and
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8c - Solid Waste Ordinance 2nd rdg
Page 14 of 18
provide this information and additional educational material regarding recycling to
residents of the complex.
(c) The provisions of subsection (a) of this section notwithstanding, the city, at any time, and
from time to time, may contract with a hauler for collection of recyclables from some or
all complexes, and if the city so contracts, the recyclables shall be collected from the
premises by the collector under contract with the city and on terms and conditions set out
in such contract.
(d) Neither the provisions of subsections (a) or (c) of this section or any other provisions of
this division shall prevent any resident from disposing of that resident's recyclables
without the use of a paid hauler or the city collection, but the provisions of section 22-95
shall be complied with by such resident.
(Code 1976, § 9-309.104)
Sec. 22-95. Disposal.
Recyclables collected from multiple-family residential structures shall not, in any event, be:
(1) Deposited in any landfill;
(2) Burned in any incinerator; or
(3) Deposited or distributed in any way or manner contrary to applicable law, statute,
ordinance, rule, or regulation.
The restrictions of subsections (1) and (2) of this section shall not comply to any
recyclables which are deposited in a landfill or burned in an incinerator pursuant to specific,
prior written approval granted by the county and consented to in writing by the city manager or
the city manager's designee. Residents shall take such action as is reasonable under the
circumstances to determine that recyclables are not disposed of contrary to the provisions of this
section.
(Code 1976, § 9-309.105)
Article III. Compost
Sec. 22-96. Compost. This article shall be known and may be cited as the Compost Ordinance
of the city.
Sec. 22-97. Definitions.
The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this article, shall have the
meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different
meaning.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8c - Solid Waste Ordinance 2nd rdg
Page 15 of 18
Yard waste means organic material consisting of grass clippings, leaves, and other forms
of organic garden waste.
Composting means any aboveground microbial process that converts plant material to
organic soil amendment or mulch.
Kitchen waste means egg shells, coffee grounds, chopped vegetables, and fruit remains.
Acceptable materials means plant material or garden waste consisting of grass clippings,
leaves, weeds, small twigs (1/4 inch diameter or less), evergreen cones and needles, wood chips,
organic mulch, herbaceous garden debris and commercial ingredients (mixed into the
composting material) specifically designed to speed or enhance decomposition.
Sec. 22-98. Duties of Owner, Occupant or Tenant.
Every owner, occupant or tenant of any premises who does not otherwise dispose of or
compost Yard Waste in a sanitary and environmentally sound manner, shall use the City-
contracted yard waste service, if eligible, or contract with a licensed collector to collect and
dispose of Yard Waste. Every owner, occupant or tenant shall make such Yard Waste available
to collector as required under this Chapter.
Sec. 22-99. Duties of Licensed Collectors.
Each licensed collector shall collect yard waste separately from other material, and haul it
away to an approved compost site.
Sec. 22-100. Composting Process
Every owner, occupant or tenant of any premises who composts Yard Waste shall do so
in an environmentally sound manner, shall use a compost bin or structure that meets the design
standards described in this section, and shall meet all other standards set forth in this ordinance.
Composting shall be allowed only on properties where there is located a single family detached
dwelling, up to a four-plex multi-family dwelling.
No permit is required to compost or to install a compost structure on the property.
(a) Containment Structure Location.
Composting containment structures shall be located in the back yard of the residential
property and not be located in a front yard. Composting containment structures shall be located
at least 15 feet from any inhabited building not owned by the generator of the compost material,
3 feet from any City park, trail, alley or right-of-way. The compost enclosure must be located
above the 100-year high water level for the closest adjacent pond or wetland.
(b) Materials Allowed in Compost Containment Structure.
Only acceptable materials, as defined in Sec. 22-97 Definitions, generated from the legal
boundaries of the site of the containment structure shall be allowed into the containment
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8c - Solid Waste Ordinance 2nd rdg
Page 16 of 18
structure. Composting of the following materials shall be prohibited: kitchen waste, food
scraps, meat, animal waste, carcasses, or other vermin-attracting materials.
(c) Containment Structure Maintenance.
Standard composting techniques shall be employed to enhance rapid biological
degradation of the material without producing objectionable odors. Techniques include, but are
not limited to, aeration, adding moisture, and providing a balance of composting materials.
Compost shall be properly maintained to minimize odor generation and to promote effective
decomposition of the materials. Containment structures must be properly maintained at all
times, and in such a manner that conforms to the requirements of this ordinance.
(d) Containment Structure Design.
Compost containers must comply with this ordinance. Upon the start of the composting
process, the container must be in place. Compost containers shall be designed to limit odors as
well as rodent and pest access. Compost structures shall be made of impenetrable and durable
material such as wood, plastic or fiberglass, enclosed on the top and sides, and not to exceed a
total of 150 cubic feet in volume for all composting on site. Wire structures, metal fencing or
other open mesh materials shall not be used for composting.
Sec. 22-101 Nuisance.
Composting that results in objectionable odors, and/or includes prohibited material,
and/or attracts vermin is deemed a public health nuisance. Failure to comply with any of the
provisions of this ordinance shall also constitute a nuisance, and the owner and/or occupant of
the lot on which nuisance is located shall be responsible for its abatement.
Sec. 22-102 Existing Non-Conforming.
All existing non-conforming compost piles must be in conformance by May 1, 2004.
Sec. 22-103. Application to City Owned or Operated Compost Facilities.
This Article does not apply to any compost facility owned or operated by the City.
SECTION 2. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall be effective fifteen (15) days after its
passage and publication.
ADOPTED this 2nd day of September, 2003, by the City Council of the City of St. Louis
Park.
Reviewed for Administration Adopted by the City Council September 2, 2003
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8c - Solid Waste Ordinance 2nd rdg
Page 17 of 18
City Manager Mayor
Attest: Approved as to Form and Execution:
City Clerk City Attorney
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8c - Solid Waste Ordinance 2nd rdg
Page 18 of 18
SUMMARY
ORDINANCE NO.______ - 03
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ST. LOUIS PARK
ORDINANCE CODE RELATING TO SOLID WASTE
CHAPTER 22
This ordinance states that Sections 22:1, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 61, 64, 91, 92, 93, 94, 96, 97, 98,
99, 100, 101, 102, and 103, of the Solid Waste Ordinance shall be amended relative to:
Language changes including requiring the following: use of city garbage carts for
garbage collection and city recycling bins for recycling collection, all bags of garbage to
be stored within a city cart for collection or marked with an “extra refuse” sticker, all cart
lids to be completely closed, all carts and yard waste containers stored inside or in the
back yard, recycling bins to be stored inside, no in-ground containers, all containers to be
placed at ground level for collection, yard waste containers to be no greater than forty
(40) pounds, containers be placed for collection by 7:00 a.m. on collection day and
retrieved by 7:00 p.m. on day of collection, posting of education for tenants in multi-
family buildings; and an addition to the chapter that outlines proper composting
techniques and requirements.
This ordinance shall take effect 15 days after publication.
Adopted by the City Council September 2, 2003
Jeffrey W. Jacobs /s/
Mayor
A copy of the full text of this ordinance is available for inspection with the City Clerk.
Published in St. Louis Park Sailor: September 11, 2003
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8d - Edgewood excavate fill CUP
Page 1 of 7
8d. The request of the Edgewood Investors for a Conditional Use Permit for the
excavation of approximately 13,000 cubic yards of contaminated soil and
processing waste and backfill of approximately 13,000 cubic yards of imported
soil on Industrial Property located at 2401 Edgewood Ave.
Case No. 03-47-CUP
2401 Edgewood Ave
Recommended
Action:
Motion to adopt a resolution approving the Conditional Use
Permit subject to conditions listed in the resolution.
Current Zoning: IP, Industrial Park
Comprehensive Plan Designation: Industrial
Background:
In July, 2003, Edgewood Investors, Inc. purchased the subject site and propose to demolish the
existing 105, 000 square foot industrial building and construct a 79,000 square foot office and
warehouse building. This property has a history of contamination as a result of several former
property owners (See attached site history). The identified contaminates at the site include
petroleum hydrocarbons, lead, barium, and lithium. Some of the waste material extended to
approximately 14 feet below the ground surface. As part of the proposed construction project the
contaminated soil and processing waste will be excavated and disposed off site and replaced with
clean fill.
Edgewood Investors is currently requesting a CUP to allow approximately 7,000 cubic yards of
contaminated soil and approximately 6,000 cubic yards of lithium ore processing waste to be
excavated. Following the excavation, approximately 13,000 cubic yards of soil will be imported
and placed on site to replace the excavated material grades to those shown on the attached
grading plan. It is estimated that approximately 15,800 square feet of the building would be used
for office space and the remaining 63,200 square feet would be used for light manufacturing and
warehouse. The building can be approved administratively.
On August 5, 2003 a demolition permit was issued for the property to permit the property owner
to begin demolition of the existing building. To facilitate the planned schedule for construction
of the proposed building, some material will be excavated and stockpiled on site until the CUP
approval has been obtained.
On August 20, 2003, the Planning Commission held a public hearing and voted 6-0 to
recommend approval. The Planning Commission recommended adding conditions that right
turns only be allowed exiting the site from Edgewood Ave onto Cedar Lake Road and that traffic
control devices be used as needed (i.e. signs ahead of the intersection noting “Slow Trucks
Hauling or other solution such as a flag person if necessary).
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8d - Edgewood excavate fill CUP
Page 2 of 7
Issues:
What route is proposed to haul the material?
How long will the hauling take place and what will be the hours of operation?
How will disturbance be managed?
What route is proposed to haul the fill?
Trucks carrying impacted soil off-site or imported soil on-site will use Edgewood Avenue, Cedar
Lake Road, and Hwy 100.
Staff and the Planning Commission recommend prohibiting trucks from using Eliot View Road
and Florida Avenue to access Cedar Lake Road. This will ensure trucks do not enter the
residential neighborhood west of Edgewood Avenue. As noted, the Planning Commission
recommends right turns out only and traffic control as necessary. The has been included in the
resolution.
How long will the hauling take place and what will be the hours of operation?
It is expected that the hauling will take approximately two weeks. Per Ordinance, hauling can
occur between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and the hours of
9:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. on the weekend and holidays. The applicant has indicated that they
will be finished hauling by about 4:30 p.m.
How will disturbance be managed?
The project will be performed using standard construction equipment (e.g., excavators, loaders,
bulldozers, trucks, and compactors). Health and safety protocols, dust control practices, and
erosion control practices for the removal of contaminates are under the jurisdiction of the
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) and will adhere to the “Response Action Plan” as
approved by the MPCA in April 2003. Staff recommends requiring as a condition of approval
that dust control measures be followed to mitigate impacts to adjacent properties. An erosion
control permit will be obtained from the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District and a NPDES
storm water general permit will be obtained. Stockpiled soil will be covered with weighted tarps
or plastic sheeting. Transportation vehicles will be tarped prior to leaving the site with impacted
soil or processing waste.
Recommendation:
Staff and the Planning Commission recommend the City Council approve the Conditional Use
Permit to remove 7,000 cubic yards of contaminated soil and approximately 6,000 cubic yards of
lithium ore processing and the placement of 13,000 cubic yards of soil subject to the conditions
in the resolution.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8d - Edgewood excavate fill CUP
Page 3 of 7
Attachments:
• Location Map
• Resolution
• Unofficial Planning Commission Minute Excerpts
• Site History (supplement)
• Application & Grading & Site Plans (supplement)
Prepared by: Julie Grove, Associate Planner
Approved by: Charles W. Meyer, City Manager
Location Map
FLORIDA AVE23RD ST W BRUN
18TH ST W
FRANKLIN AVE W
HAMPSHIRE AVE SGEORGIA AVE SFLORIDA AVE SEDGEWOOD AVE S
25 1/2 ST W CEDARLAKE
RD
RIDGE DRIVEPETER
HOBART
SC HOOL
Subject Site
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8d - Edgewood excavate fill CUP
Page 4 of 7
RESOLUTION NO. 03 - _____
A RESOLUTION GRANTING CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT UNDER
SECTION 36-79 OF THE ST. LOUIS PARK ORDINANCE CODE RELATING
TO ZONING TO PERMIT EXCAVATION OF APPROXIMATELY 13,000
YARDS OF CONTAMINATED SOIL AND PROCESSING WASTE AND
BACKFILL OF APPROXIMATELY 13,000 CUBIC YARDS OF IMPORTED
SOIL FOR PROPERTY ZONED IP INDUSTRIAL PARK DISTRICT
LOCATED AT 2401 EDGEWOOD AVENUE
BE IT RESOLVED BY the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park:
Findings
1. Edgewood Investors LLC has made application to the City Council for a Conditional Use
Permit under Section 36-79 of the St. Louis Park Ordinance Code for the purpose of excavation
of approximately 13,000 yards of contaminated soil and processing waste and backfill of
approximately 13,000 cubic yards of imported soil within a IP Industrial Park District located
at 2401 Edgewood Avenue for the legal description as follows, to-wit:
Parcel 1: Tract C, Registered Land Survey No. 916, Files of Registrar of Titles,
County of Hennepin
Parcel 2: All that part of Tract D, Registered Land Survey No. 916, Files of
Registrar of Titles, County of Hennepin, which lies Westerly of the following
described line: Commencing at the Southwest corner of said Tract D; thence
Northerly along the Westerly line of said Tract D, a distance of 179.87 feet to the
point of beginning of the line to be described; thence Northerly deflecting to the
right 5 degrees 38 minutes 26 seconds a distance of 83.26 feet; thence Northerly
deflection to the right 2 degrees 41 minutes 29 seconds a distance of 106.65 feet;
thence Northwesterly deflecting to the left 38 degrees 24 minutes 43 seconds to
the West line of said Tract D and there terminating.
Torrens
2. The City Council has considered the advice and recommendation of the Planning
Commission (Case No. 03-47-CUP) and the effect of the proposed excavation of contaminated
soil and processing waste and placement of new fill on the health, safety and welfare of the
occupants of the surrounding lands, existing and anticipated traffic conditions, the effect on
values of properties in the surrounding area, the effect of the use on the Comprehensive Plan,
and compliance with the intent of the Zoning Ordinance.
3. The Council has determined that the excavation of contaminated soil and processing waste
and placement of new fill will not be detrimental to the health, safety, or general welfare of the
community nor will it cause serious traffic congestion nor hazards, nor will it seriously
depreciate surrounding property values, and the proposed excavation and placement of fill is in
harmony with the general purpose and intent of the Zoning Ordinance and the Comprehensive
Plan.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8d - Edgewood excavate fill CUP
Page 5 of 7
4. The contents of Planning Case File 03-47-CUP are hereby entered into and made part of
the public hearing record and the record of decision for this case.
Conclusion
The Conditional Use Permit to permit the excavation of contaminated soil and processing waste
and placement of new fill at the location described is granted based on the findings set forth
above and subject to the following conditions:
1. The site shall be developed, used and maintained in accordance with the Grading Plans
such documents incorporated by reference herein.
2. Trucks shall enter/exit the site using Edgewood Avenue and Cedar Lake Road. Trucks
are prohibited from using Eliot View Road and Florida Avenue and shall travel
eastbound on Cedar Lake Road when exiting from Edgewood Avenue.
3. The hours of operation shall be limited to the hours between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. on
weekdays and 9:00 am and 10:00 p.m. on weekends and holidays.
4. The site must be watered regularly for dust control and streets must be kept clean
throughout hauling routes.
5. Assent form and official exhibits must be signed by applicant and owner and financial
surety for cleaning repair of streets shall be submitted prior to hauling soil on or off-site.
6. Operations shall comply with noise restriction or obtain a temporary noise permit.
7. Traffic control devices shall be implemented as determined by the Public Works
Director.
8. The developer or owner shall pay an administrative fine of $750 per violation of any
condition of this approval.
Under the Zoning Ordinance Code, this permit shall be revoked and cancelled if the grading is
not completed in accordance with approved plans within one year.
This Conditional Use Permit is for excavation and fill only. A separate building permit, which
may impose additional requirements must be obtained prior to any building construction
activities.
The City Clerk is instructed to record certified copies of this resolution in the Office of the
Hennepin County Register of Deeds or Registrar of Titles as the case may be.
Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the City Council September 2, 2003
City Manager Mayor
Attest:
City Clerk
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8d - Edgewood excavate fill CUP
Page 6 of 7
Excerpt - Unofficial Minutes
Planning Commission
August 20, 2003
3B. The request of the Edgewood Investors for a Conditional Use Permit for the excavation
of approximately 13,000 cubic yards of contaminated soil and processing waste and
backfill of approximately 13,000 cubic yards of imported soil on Industrial Property
located at 2401 Edgewood Ave.
Case No. 03-47-CUP
Ms. Jeremiah presented a staff report regarding the request of Edgewood Investors, LLC,
also known as Real Estate Recycling, for a CUP to allow approximately 7,000 cubic
yards of contaminated soil and approximately 6,000 cubic yards of lithium ore processing
waste to be excavated. Ms. Jeremiah stated that after excavation approximately 13,000
cubic yards of soil will be imported and placed on site to bring the grades to those
described in the grading plan. It is being proposed that the existing 105,336 square foot
industrial building will be demolished and replaced with a single-story 79,000 square foot
office/warehouse building.
Ms. Jeremiah said the proposed route for trucks to haul the fill off-site and on-site is to
use Edgewood Avenue, Cedar Lake Road, and Highway 100. As a condition of approval,
staff is recommending that trucks be prohibited from using Eliot View Road and Florida
Avenue to access Cedar Lake Road.
Ms. Jeremiah wants to make it clear that absolutely no construction activity of any kind is
to take place before 7:00 a.m. She said there are a number of health and safety protocols
in place, as well as dust control practices, which fall under the jurisdiction of the
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, and they have a Response Action Plan.
Staff is recommending approval of the CUP for this hauling activity subject to the site
being developed in accordance with the grading plan, that trucks use only Edgewood
Avenue and Cedar Lake Road, the hours of construction be strictly observed, that the site
must be watered for dust control, streets must be kept clean throughout hauling routes, a
financial surety is to be submitted, and operations must comply with all noise restrictions
or the applicant must obtain a temporary noise permit.
Commissioner Morris asked if there are any proposed traffic control, traffic devices or
regulatory person to be situated at the T-intersection. Ms. Jeremiah responded no, but
there could be a recommendation to have a flag person or other traffic control there.
Commissioner Morris said he strongly suggests that be done.
Commissioner Gothberg said he would like a condition be added that Cedar Lake Road
eastward to Highway 100 be used exclusively, and Cedar Lake Road to the west not be
used.
Chair Robertson suggested looking at the return route from the west on Cedar Lake Road
to prevent left turns across Cedar Lake Road.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8d - Edgewood excavate fill CUP
Page 7 of 7
Paul Hyde, applicant, said his intention was to head only eastward on Cedar Lake Road,
not west.
Commissioner Finkelstein expressed concern about children in proximity to the
construction site. Ms. Jeremiah and Mr. Hunt said the site is fenced, and Ms. Jeremiah
said the stockpiles will be covered with tarps during non-construction hours.
Commissioner Carper asked about the number of trucks, hours of hauling and volume to
be anticipated. Mr. Hyde said the landfill location has not yet been selected but landfills
typically close at 4:30 p.m. so he would not anticipate hauling later than that. He was not
able to determine a volume amount at this time.
Commissioner Morris recommended that the typical language about violations associated
with construction and hauling be included with conditions.
Chair Robertson opened the public hearing. With no one wishing to speak, Chair
Robertson closed the public hearing.
It was moved by Commissioner Morris to adopt a resolution approving the Conditional
Use Permit subject to conditions listed in the resolution; and with the conditions
discussed by the Commission, that is, the inclusion in the language of fines if operating
before or after the specified times, and the condition for traffic signaling devices, warning
devices or a flag person—Commissioner Morris would like a sign posted to warn
motorists of trucks hauling—to be implemented as needed. The motion passed 6-0.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8e - Luther Final PUD
Page 1 of 15
8e. Request of SLP Motors, LLC for a Final PUD to redevelop the Win Stephen
Buick Pontiac property for Westside Volkswagen
2370 and 2440 State Highway 100 S
Case Nos. 03-14-PUD
Final PUD to allow the redevelopment of an automobile dealership, including
replacing the building at 2370 TH 100, remodel the building at 2440 TH 100 and add a
parking ramp at 2440 TH 100.
Recommended
Action:
Motion to adopt resolution approving Final PUD subject to the
conditions in the resolution.
Current Zoning: C2 – General Commercial
F2 - Floodplain
Comprehensive Plan Designation: Commercial
Background:
On June 4, 2003, the Planning Commission held a public hearing regarding the Preliminary PUD
with variances for the subject property. The Planning Commission continued the public hearing
until June 18, when it recommended approval of the request on a vote of 4 to 0. The owner of
the medical office building to the south provided the only public comment during the hearing.
On July 7, 2003, the City Council approved the Preliminary PUD with variances for the subject
property. Three variances were granted to accommodate the placement of the proposed parking
ramp due to the residential adjacency and included:
§ reductions to setbacks for the parking ramp from residentially developed parcels,
§ increased parking ramp height, and
§ reduction in the required bufferyards and elimination of the requirement for a berm or
berm wall.
On August 6, 2003, the Planning Commission reviewed and recommended approval of the Final
PUD. No one from the public spoke at the meeting. Subsequent to the Planning commission
meeting staff has had more detailed discussion related to construction phasing issues (see last
section of Issues Analysis).
The subject property is located on the west side of State Highway 100 S. with frontage road
access. The property received special permits to operate a motor vehicle sales lot (Stephens
Buick) in 1962 and 1964 under a previous industrial zoning classification and prior to the
delineation of the flood plain or adoption of flood plain regulations. There are currently a
number of non-conformities on the site including parking setbacks, signage, and bufferyards. All
of the existing signs are being removed, and the applicant is submitting a new sign package for
the PUD site. The proposed site plan and landscape plan show the conforming setbacks and
bufferyards.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8e - Luther Final PUD
Page 2 of 15
Industrial uses are located north and west of this property and a medical office use and a
residential use are located to the south. About a third of the southwest portion of the southern lot
is located in a flood zone and the existing sales lot on this property frequently floods resulting in
damage to the vehicles displayed there. The requested use is permitted by Conditional Use
Permit. The applicant is requesting a PUD so that the two parcels can be considered together as
one overall development.
STEPHENS DR
2 3 R D S T W
(/100
Subject
Subject
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8e - Luther Final PUD
Page 3 of 15
Site Data:
PUD Size (2 lots): 6.96 Acres
Current Land Use Auto Dealership
Proposed Land Use Auto Dealership
Other required approvals: Minnehaha Creek Watershed
District
Variances Approved 3
Building Area existing 63,693 square feet
Proposed 59,666 square feet
Parking
Existing 720 approx.
Proposed 747
Description of Request:
The applicant proposes to remove the existing building on the north property and replace it with
a new building to house the Volkswagen dealership and service that is currently located on the
east side of TH 100 at Cedar Lake Road. The building on the south lot is being retained and
rehabilitated for the used car VW sales office and car wash. The existing canopies will be
removed and other site improvements are proposed including a 3-level parking ramp along the
west property line of the south property. The parking ramp is being proposed as a remedy for the
current flooding problem. Storage of the 100-year flood will occur under the ramp. The
applicant is proposing to use the lower two levels of the parking ramp to store inventory and the
upper level for employee parking. This configuration will allow for snow removal without
relocating the car inventory.
The property abuts commercial and industrial property to the north, south and west, except that a
portion of property in the southwest corner of the southerly lot abuts a residential parking lot.
The actual apartment building is located 130 feet from the property line. The applicant is
proposing to locate a 3-level parking ramp along the western lot line of the southerly lot over the
existing floodplain. The existing flood plain area is far more extensive than what occurs on the
subject parcel, extending to the south and west. The applicant was granted three variances to
accommodate the placement of the parking ramp due to the residential adjacency. These include
reductions to setbacks from residentially developed parcels, the parking ramp height, and
bufferyard.
The applicant has stated that due to the popularity of the Volkswagen, the Cedar Lake Road
(1820 Quentin Ave S.) site is too small to handle the sales volumes and the improvements
proposed for this site are in keeping with the corporate image established for Volkswagen. To
help alleviate problems at the Cedar Lake Road site, the southern lot is currently being used in its
current condition for Volkswagen display and sales.
The proposal is to construct a new building on the north lot first. When that is complete then the
construction will move to the southern lot with the remodel of the existing southern building and
construction of the parking ramp. It is desirable for the applicant to have continuous use of part
of the site in order to alleviate some of the congestion on the Cedar Lake Road property.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8e - Luther Final PUD
Page 4 of 15
Issues:
• Are the requirements of the PUD ordinance met, including all of the submittal
requirements?
• Are the Final PUD plan consistent with the Preliminary Plat resolution and plans?
§ Are the Final PUD plans consistent with zoning ordinance requirements?
§ How does continuous use of the parcel affect construction phasing?
Issue Analysis:
• Are the requirements of the PUD ordinance met, including all of the submittal
requirements?
A. The design shall consider the whole of the project and shall create a unified environment
within project boundaries by ensuring architectural compatibility of all structures,
efficient vehicular and pedestrian circulation, aesthetically pleasing landscape and site
features, and design and efficient use of utilities.
The applicant is requesting a PUD in order that the two properties can be considered
together as one development. The proposal is to replace an existing building on the
northerly parcel and to remodel the existing building on the southerly lot and add a
parking ramp. The exterior design of the buildings will use similar materials, decorative
motif, and colors. In addition, all of the existing canopies and signs will be removed, the
parking reorganized with a new circulation pattern and a reduced number of curb cuts.
The proposal adds sidewalk along all the public ways and adds extensive landscaping,
both internal and along the perimeters.
The PUD requires a “higher standard” of development than would be required under a
conditional use permit. Several features of the proposal are of a higher standard. These
include:
§ Building materials: Proposed building materials exceed the code requirements for
60% class 1 materials for the proposed new building and for 3 sides of the existing
building. The 4th side of the existing building is concrete block, and will not be
visible from off-site. The 60% Class 1 requirement does not apply to building
elevations that are not visible from off-site. The proposal is to paint the block to
match the existing brick and to add a pre-finished aluminum band across the top to
match the new building.
§ Parking ramp: A parking structure is considered a higher standard than a surface
parking lot. The proposed building materials for the parking ramp exceed the
requirements for parking ramps; the proposal is to use a brick veneer for the entire
ramp.
Staff, the Planning Commission and the City Council approved the Preliminary Plat
finding that all of these proposed improvements meet the intent of this section.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8e - Luther Final PUD
Page 5 of 15
B. The design of the PUD shall achieve the maximum compatibility of the project with
surrounding land uses, both existing and proposed, and shall minimize the potential
adverse impacts of the PUD on surrounding land uses and the potential adverse affects of
the surrounding land uses on the PUD.
The proposed parking ramp will be located on the west part of the southern lot. The
walls that are visible from the residential uses to the south will not have openings and
will be covered with a brick veneer that matches the main building on the north property.
The parking ramp wall will buffer the activity associated with the dealership from view.
A bufferyard E is proposed between the south parking ramp wall and adjacent residential
use. The proposed bufferyards around the periphery of the development will buffer this
use from all of the adjacent streets and uses.
C. The design shall take into account any modifications of ordinance requirements
permitted by Section 36-367(d) of this ordinance and provide appropriate solutions to
eliminate the adverse impacts of any modification required for approval of the PUD.
The applicant is not seeking any modifications from Section 36-367(d). The PUD is
requested so that both properties can be considered as one when applying limits on used
car sales (see motor vehicle sales conditions below).
The applicant has submitted all of the necessary drawings and application materials to evaluate
the proposed development. Public Works has found that the final grading, drainage and erosion
control plan and storm water calculations are acceptable. The site plan and landscape plans
indicate that the proposal intends to meet all of the ordinance requirements, except those for
which a variance has been granted. The Environmental Coordinator has requested that two tree
species shown on the landscape plan be changed, one because of hardiness and the other because
it has become invasive. The applicant has agreed to this change and will submit a corrected
landscape plan prior to building permit.
• Are the Final PUD plan consistent with the Preliminary Plat resolution and plans?
The Preliminary Plat drawings are consistent with the approved Preliminary Plat resolution.
There have been several minor changes to the plans. These include:
§ Modification to the parking ramp elevations and floor plans that reflect a functional
redesign. The north and south ramp elevation plans no longer show a “split” floor.
This redesign allows for a reduction in total height of the ramp.
§ A small landscaped area on the south side of the north building has been redesigned
and reduced in size in order to allow vehicle drop off. The plan continues to meet the
ordinance requirements for internal landscaping.
§ Are the Final PUD plans consistent with zoning ordinance requirements?
The zoning code permits motor vehicle sales by conditional use permit in the C2—General
Commercial district. There are a number of conditions listed that need to be met in order to
approve the use. Parking ramps are also permitted in the C2 district and have additional
requirements related to height, setbacks, and landscaping when located within 200 feet of a lot
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8e - Luther Final PUD
Page 6 of 15
with a residential or institutional use. The southwest portion of the southern lot is located within
the 100-year floodplain, which requires additional conditions.
Floodplain. About a third of the southern lot is located within the regulatory flood plain. The
Zoning Code prohibits any fill in the floodplain unless compensating storage is provided. The
applicant is proposing to fill a portion of the floodplain between the existing building and the
southern lot line and to provide the compensating storage under the parking ramp. Public Works
has reviewed the proposal and finds it an acceptable solution. Cut and fill calculations have been
submitted and found to indicate a balance of cut and fill.
Motor vehicle sales conditions:
a. No previously registered but currently unlicensed or nonoperable vehicles shall be stored
on premises.
This has been added as a condition of approval.
b. A minimum of 50% of the vehicles for sale on the premises shall be new vehicles.
This condition is met as a whole for the PUD site. The plans submitted indicate that
54.2% of the sales display area of the combined sites will be for new vehicles, while
45.8% will be for used vehicles. This has also been made a condition of approval.
c. All open sales or rental lots shall be operated in conjunction with a building or buildings
containing the same or similar materials as displayed on the open sales or rental lot.
This condition is met. Two sales buildings are proposed to contain new and used vehicle
sales office and display.
d. The building and the sales or rental lot shall be on one contiguous site.
This condition is being met through the PUD. The subject properties are actually two
properties that are divided by Stephens Drive. Through the PUD they would operate as
one site.
e. All parking and paved areas shall meet all of the landscaping and design requirements of
section 36-361.
The final PUD landscape plan indicates that this condition is met.
f. String lighting shall be prohibited.
This has been added as a condition of approval.
g. The area of open sale or rental lot used for storage and display of merchandise shall not
exceed two square feet for every one square foot of building on the site devoted to the
same or similar use or accessory use.
This condition is met. The total square footage of building area on both sites equals
59,666 square feet. Thus, an open sales lot of 119,322 square feet is allowable under this
condition. The plans proposed 91,484 square feet of open sales and display. This has
been added as a condition of approval.
h. No test driving shall be permitted on local residential streets.
Staff acknowledges that it may be difficult to enforce this requirement. However, the
applicant has submitted two alternative test-driving routes. One of these routes will not
be available after the redesign of TH 100. In the interim, both routes are acceptable. The
proposed routes will be included in the official exhibits for the PUD and are included as a
condition of approval.
i. No outdoor public address system shall be permitted.
The existing buildings do currently have an outdoor public address system. In fact, staff
recently received a complaint that a loud speaker was being used on site. A condition of
the Preliminary PUD is that this be dismantled during the redevelopment of this property.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8e - Luther Final PUD
Page 7 of 15
Today, there are numerous alternatives to outdoor loudspeakers such as pagers and
mobile phones. This has been added as a condition of approval.
j. All customer and employee parking shall be clearly designated and signed.
This has been added as a condition of approval.
k. No motor vehicle transport loading or unloading shall be permitted on any minor
residential street.
This has been added as a condition of approval.
l. No display or storage of motor vehicles shall be permitted on any public right-of-way.
This has been added as a condition of approval.
m. A bufferyard C shall be provided along all public ways and along an abutting O district.
The Zoning Code also requires a 6-foot setback for parking lots from a public right of
way in addition to the above requirement. The Final PUD landscape plan indicates that
this provision is met.
n. A bufferyard F shall be installed and maintained along all property lines of an R use.
A variance was approved to reduce this requirement to a bufferyard E along the south
property line and a bufferyard D along the west property line that abuts a residential use
district. The Final PUD landscape plan complies with the requirement after the variance.
o. The storage lot shall be located a minimum of 100 feet from an R use.
The site plan indicates this condition is met.
p. The use is in conformance with the comprehensive plan including any provisions of the
redevelopment chapter and the plan by neighborhood policies for the neighborhood in
which it is located and conditions of approval may be added as a means of satisfying this
requirement.
The Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Map were recently amended to permit this use.
Parking ramp. The applicant is proposing to construct a three level parking ramp along the west
property line of the southern lot. Parking ramps are permitted as accessory uses in the C2—
General Commercial District, however these are subject to the same conditions as parking ramps
as principal uses.
The southwest portion of the south lot abuts the parking lot for an apartment building as is shown
on the aerial photo. The actual apartment building is about 130 feet from the property line (142
feet from the parking structure).
The south and west elevations of the parking ramp do not show any openings so that these
elevations more closely resemble a building than a typical parking ramp. The ramp façade is
proposed to be covered with a brick veneer using a decorative motif and patterns that match the
proposed new building on the north lot. Ingress and egress from the parking ramp occur on the
east side, away from the residential uses. Noise and activity associated with the parking ramp
will be shielded from the residential property by the parking ramp structure itself.
There are specific requirements that limit lighting on the roof of the parking ramp so it is not
visible from neighboring residential uses. The applicant will be required to show how this is
resolved prior to building permit being issued.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8e - Luther Final PUD
Page 8 of 15
Conditions for approval of a parking ramp include:
a. The height of any parking ramp located within 200 feet of any parcel that is zoned
residential and used or subdivided for residential, or has an occupied institutional
building, including but not limited to schools, religious institutions, and community
centers, may not penetrate the height of a line commencing at and perpendicular to said
parcel and extending upward away from said parcel at a slope of five horizontal feet for
each vertical foot.
The City Council granted a variance from this provision of the code. The maximum
height of the parking ramp is indicated on the Final PUD elevation exhibit.
b. The minimum yard requirement for any parking ramp located within 200 feet of any
parcel that is zoned residential and used or subdivided for residential, or has an
occupied institutional building, including but not limited to schools, religious institutions,
and community centers, shall be 50 feet.
A variance was granted from this provision to allow the parking ramp to be located 12
feet from the south property line and 6 feet from the west property line.
c. Access shall be from a roadway identified in the comprehensive plan as a collector or
arterial or otherwise located so that access can be provided without conducting
significant traffic on local residential streets.
The proposed parking ramp meets this requirement.
d. The parking ramp shall be screened from view from any abutting property located within
an R district with a bufferyard F. This bufferyard shall include a B4 berm or Bw3 berm
wall if the parking ramp is above ground.
A variance was granted to reduce this requirement to meet the total number of points
required for a bufferyard E on the south property line and a bufferyard D on the west
property line. The Final PUD landscape plan complies with the requirements of the
variance.
e. If the parking ramp is located within 400 feet of any parcel that is zoned residential and
used or subdivided for residential, or has an occupied institutional building, including
but not limited to schools, religious institutions, and community centers, all light sources
on the top deck of a parking ramp shall be below the sight lines drawn from a point one
foot about the light source to any pint within said parcel ten feet lower than the maximum
structure height of that use district at a distance of 400 feet from the wall of the parking
ramp nearest to said parcel.
An analysis of the lighting will be required prior to issuance of a building permit and this
has been added as a condition of approval.
Other Ordinance Code Requirements:
Parking Standards
The proposed plan exceeds the ordinance parking requirements. Open sales lots require 1 space
for each 2500 square feet of land used for sales and display. Under motor vehicle service and
repair, the ordinance also requires 4 parking spaces for each service bay, each bay can be a
maximum of 400 square feet in size. The developer is proposing to use 91,482 square feet for
display and 42 service bays are proposed in the new Volkswagen building on the northern site.
Thus requiring a total of 205 parking spaces. 727 stalls in total are proposed on site; 110
customer parking stalls, 20 employee stalls on the surface lot, 99 employee stalls on the 3rd level
of the parking ramp, 300 vehicle display stalls, 198 inventory parking stalls on the 1st and 2nd
levels of the ramp.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8e - Luther Final PUD
Page 9 of 15
The applicant has stated that there are 720 stalls existing on the site and that the 727 stalls
proposed would only replace what is currently existing. The proposed site plan reorganizes the
site adding curbs, drive aisles, and landscaping. The parking ramp displaces a number of at-
grade parking places.
Tree removal/replacement. There are no existing trees on the site and thus no tree replacement is
required.
Sidewalks and Trails. The Zoning Ordinance requires that sidewalks be provided along all
public ways of commercial development. There is a need for a sidewalk/trail connection from
the neighborhood to the south to the regional trail north of this site just south of the Burlington
Northern railroad property. The applicant has agreed to provide sidewalks and trails and these
are reflected on the Final PUD site plan. The site plan indicates that a portion of these sidewalks
and trails are on private property. Staff has informed the applicant that an easement will be
required over that area of private property where the sidewalks are shown. A legal description
for the easement has been submitted and has been found acceptable by staff. The easement must
be recorded prior to issuance of any building permits.
There has been considerable discussion, but no resolution about the final location of the cross
walk on Stephens Drive. The Final PUD site plan may need to be adjusted to reflect a location
other than what is being shown. The Final PUD resolution indicates that pedestrian crossings are
required to be painted on the roadways and pedestrian crossing signs installed prior to a
certificate of occupancy for the site.
Grading and Utility Plan
Generally the grading and utility plans are found to be adequate.
Other Issues
The Demolition Plan shows the removal of all of the canopies as well as the existing building on
the north lot. There are several issues related to the demolition of the existing building related to
utility services that will need to be addressed as part of the demolition permit process.
Recently, the land use “Autobody/painting” was added as a permitted accessory use to “Motor
vehicles sales”. The proposed PUD does not include “Autobody/painting”. Since this accessory
use may have off-site impacts, a condition was added to the Final PUD resolution that would
require the applicant to amend the PUD before this accessory use could be added to the current
operation.
A lighting plan with photometrics is required that shows the lighting levels proposed for the site
and that indicates light levels at the property lines consistent with code requirements. The
applicant is required to submit this plan prior to issuance of a building permit.
The applicant will be required to irrigate the landscape areas on the site. An irrigation plan will
be required prior to issuance of a building permit.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8e - Luther Final PUD
Page 10 of 15
§ How does continuous use of the parcel affect construction phasing?
In order to reduce the off-site impacts associated with high sales volumes that Westside
Volkswagen was experiencing at its current site at 1820 Quentin Avenue S. (Cedar Lake Road
east of TH 100), a portion of that business was transferred to the southern lot at 2440 State
Highway 100. The applicant is proposing to continue its Volkswagen operation on this site
during construction of the new building on the north lot. After the northern building is complete,
construction and site work will commence on the southern lot. In order to ensure that the site
improvements are completed on the southern lot, staff recommends requiring building permits
for the parking ramp and the southern building be issued and a letter of credit for site work be
obtained prior to issuance of a temporary certificate of occupancy for the north building. Staff
recommends that the permanent certificate of occupancy not be issued until all of the work on
both lots is complete. Staff believes this is important since the two sites received benefits
through the PUD and do not meet car sales ordinance requirements unless redeveloped as one.
These conditions have been discussed with the applicant and included in the resolution.
Due to this sequencing, it is necessary to maintain some amount of signage on the southern lot
during construction of the 2370 lot. The resolution does require that all non-conforming signs on
both properties be removed prior to beginning any site work on the 2370 lot. The Development
Agreement, required by the Final PUD resolution will also address the sequencing and signage
issues.
Recommendation:
Staff and the Planning Commission recommend approval of the Final PUD subject to the
conditions indicated in the resolution.
Attachments: Final PUD resolution
Final PUD plans supplement
Prepared by: Judie Erickson, Planning Coordinator (952) 924-2574
Approved by: Charles W. Meyer, City Manager
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8e - Luther Final PUD
Page 11 of 15
RESOLUTION NO. 03 - ____
A RESOLUTION APPROVING A FINAL PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT (PUD)
UNDER SECTION 36-367 OF THE ST. LOUIS PARK ORDINANCE CODE RELATING
TO ZONING FOR PROPERTY ZONED C-2 GENERAL COMMERCIAL LOCATED
AT 2370 and 2440 STATE HIGHWAY 100 SOUTH
WHEREAS, the City Council approved the Preliminary PUD on July 7, 2003,
Resolution No. 03-082; and
WHEREAS, an application for approval of a Final Planned Unit Development (PUD)
was received and deemed complete on May 19, 2003 from the applicant, and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission reviewed the Final PUD at the meeting of
August 6, 2003; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission recommended approval of the Final PUD on a 5-
0 vote with all members present voting in the affirmative, and
WHEREAS, the City Council has considered the staff reports, Planning Commission
minutes and testimony of those appearing at the public hearing or otherwise including comments
in the record of decision.
BE IT RESOLVED BY the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park:
Findings
1. SLP Motors, LLC (The Luther Company) has made application to the City Council for a
Planned Unit Development under Section 36-367 of the St. Louis Park Ordinance Code within
the C-2 General Commercial district located at 2370 and 2440 State Highway 100 South for the
legal description as follows, to-wit:
Tract I:
That part of the South 310 feet of the North 340 feet of the Southwest Quarter of the
Northwest Quarter of Section 31, Township 29, Range 24, lying West of State Highway
No. 100 and lying East of a line drawn at a right angle to the North line of said quarter
quarter and from a point therein distant 375.18 feet East of the Northwest corner of said
quarter quarter. Abstract
Tract II:
Parcel 1:
That part of Tracts A and B, Registered Land Survey No. 493, Files of Registrar of Titles,
County of Hennepin, lying Easterly and Southerly of a line parallel with and 22.5 feet
Easterly and Southerly of a line described as beginning at a point in the South line of
said Tract B, distant 443.3 feet Easterly as measured along said South line, from the
Southwest corner of said Tract B; thence North 2 degrees 24 minutes East, 298.84 feet to
an intersection with a line parallel with and 242.5 feet Southerly of the Southerly right of
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8e - Luther Final PUD
Page 12 of 15
way line of the Great Northern Railroad right of way, thence North 73 degrees 08
minutes East along last said parallel to the Easterly line of Tract C in said Registered
Land Survey and there terminating; except the East 50 feet of the above described
property. For the purposes of this description the West line of said Tract A is assumed to
bear due North and South.
Parcel 2:
That part of the Easterly 50 feet of Tracts A and B which lies Southerly of the Southerly
line of Tract C and of the Westerly extension of said Southerly line, all in Registered
Land Survey No. 493. Files of Registrar of Titles, County of Hennepin.
Parcel 3:
That part of the Northwest 1/4 of the Northwest 1/4 of Section 31, Township 29, Range
24, lying south of the Great Northern Railway right of way and West of State Highway
No. 100, except that part described as follows, to-wit: Commencing at the point of
intersection of the Southerly right of way line of the Great Northern Railway with the
Westerly right of way line of State Highway No. 100; thence Southerly along said
Westerly right of way line of State Highway No. 100, 377.6 feet; thence Westerly parallel
with said Southerly right of way line of Great Northern Railway, a distance of 400 feet;
thence at right angles Northerly 250 feet to the Southerly right of way line of Great
Northern Railway; thence Easterly along said right of way line 220 feet; thence at right
angles Northerly along Great Northern Railway right of way 80 feet; thence Easterly
along the Southerly right of way line of Great Northern Railway 364 feet to the point of
beginning, also except that part thereof embraced in Registered Land Survey No. 493.
Torrens
2. The City Council has considered the advice and recommendation of the Planning
Commission (Case No. 03-14-PUD) and the effect of the proposed PUD on the health, safety and
welfare of the occupants of the surrounding lands, existing and anticipated traffic conditions, the
effect on values of properties in the surrounding area, the effect of the use on the Comprehensive
Plan, and compliance with the intent of the Zoning Ordinance.
3. The City Council has determined that the PUD will not be detrimental to the health, safety, or
general welfare of the community nor with certain contemplated traffic improvements will it
cause serious traffic congestion nor hazards, nor will it seriously depreciate surrounding property
values. The Council has also determined that the proposed PUD is in harmony with the general
purpose and intent of the Zoning Ordinance and the Comprehensive Plan and that the requested
modifications comply with the requirements of Section 36-367(b)(5).
4. The contents of Planning Case File 03-14-PUD are hereby entered into and made part of the
public hearing record and the record of decision for this case.
Conclusion
The Final Planned Unit Development at the location described are approved based on the
findings set forth above and subject to the following conditions:
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8e - Luther Final PUD
Page 13 of 15
1. The site shall be developed, used and maintained in accordance with the Final PUD
official exhibits which shall be amended prior to signing to meet the following conditions:
a. The final site plan shall be modified to comply with the final crosswalk location
as approved by Public Works, if different from what has been proposed.
b. The final landscape plan shall be modified to reflect the final crosswalk location
(if different from proposed).
2. Final PUD approval and development is contingent upon developer meeting all
conditions of final approval including all Minnehaha Creek Watershed District requirements.
3. Prior to any site work, the applicant shall comply with the following requirements:
a. Pursuant to Section 36-367(e)(6) of the Zoning Ordinance, a development agreement
shall be executed between the developer and the City that covers at a minimum, sidewalk
and construction and maintenance, repair and cleaning of public streets, requirement for a
sidewalk and trail easement, the use of interim signage during construction of the 2370
building, construction phasing, and requirements for escrows or letters of credit to ensure
compliance.
b. Submit financial security in the form of cash escrow or letter of credit in the
amount of 125% of the costs of sidewalk installation and repair/cleaning of public
streets.
c. Reimbursement of City attorney’s fees in drafting/reviewing such documents.
d. Record an easement for the required sidewalk/trail where it is located on the
private property.
e. A copy of the Watershed District permit shall be forwarded to the City.
f. Any other necessary permits from other agencies shall be obtained.
g. Sign assent form and official exhibits.
h. Obtain the required erosion control permits, utility permits and other permits
required by the City.
i. Meet any other conditions as required by the development agreement.
4. Prior to issuance of any building permits, which may impose additional requirements, the
developer shall comply with the following:
a. Meet any Fire Department emergency access requirements for during
construction.
b. The applicant shall furnish the City with evidence of recording of the sidewalk
and trail easement.
c. Building materials samples shall be submitted to and approved by City.
d. A lighting plan with photometrics, fixture detail, and irrigation plan that comply
with City ordinance regulations shall be submitted and approved by the
community development department. These shall include lighting plans and
details for the roof of the parking ramp.
e. Remove all non-conforming signs from the PUD site.
f. A revised site plan showing a relocated pedestrian crossing shall be submitted.
g. A revised landscape plan showing modifications of plant species as indicated by
the Environmental Coordinator and accommodating the relocated pedestrian
crossing shall be submitted.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8e - Luther Final PUD
Page 14 of 15
5. The developer shall comply with the following conditions during construction:
a. All City noise ordinances shall be complied with, including that there be no
construction activity between the hours of 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. on weekdays and 10
p.m. and 9 a.m. on weekends and holidays.
b. Loud equipment shall be kept as far as possible from residences at all times.
c. The site shall be kept free of dust and debris that could blow onto neighboring
properties.
d. Public streets shall be maintained free of dirt and shall be cleaned as necessary.
e. The Zoning Administrator may impose additional conditions if it becomes
necessary in order to mitigate the impact of construction on surrounding
properties.
6. Prior to issuance of a temporary certificate of occupancy for the 2370 property, the
developer shall comply with the following:
a. Complete construction drawings and obtain building permits for the new parking
ramp and building improvements for the existing 2440 building.
b. Submit a letter of credit for completion of all site and exterior building
improvements of the 2440 site.
c. Crosswalks and pedestrian crossing signs shall be located in accordance with the
Final PUD site plan exhibit.
7. Prior to issuance of any final certificate of occupancy for the properties, all site and
building improvements including the parking ramp shall be completed on both properties and
20% of the landscaping portion of the letter of credit shall be maintained for replacement.
8. During operation of the motor vehicle sales the property owner shall comply with the
following:
a. No previously registered but currently unlicensed or non-operable vehicles shall
be stored on premises.
b. A minimum of 50% of the vehicles for sale on the PUD premises shall be new
vehicles.
c. String lighting is prohibited.
d. The area of open sale or rental lot used for storage and display of merchandise
shall not exceed two square feet each square foot of building area.
e. Test driving is prohibited on local residential streets. A map showing test driving
routes as indicated in the approved PUD exhibits shall be provided to all
customers and employees.
f. Outdoor public address systems are prohibited.
g. All customer and employee parking shall be clearly designated and signed.
h. The display or storage of motor vehicles is prohibited on any public right-of-way.
i. No motor vehicle transport loading or unloading shall be permitted on any minor
residential street.
9. Autobody/painting is not permitted as an accessory use to the PUD without a major
amendment to it.
10. The developer or owner shall pay an administrative fee of $750 per violation of any condition of
this approval.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8e - Luther Final PUD
Page 15 of 15
Pursuant to Section 36-367(e)(6) of the Zoning Ordinance, the City will require execution of a
development agreement as a condition of approval of the Final P.U.D. The development
agreement shall address those issues which the City Council deems appropriate and necessary.
The City Clerk is instructed to record certified copies of this resolution in the Office of the
Hennepin County Register of Deeds or Registrar of Titles as the case may be.
Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the City Council September 2, 2003
City Manager Mayor
Attest:
City Clerk
03-14-PUDfinal:res/ord
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8f - Methodist prelimin PUD
Page 1 of 21
8f. Request of Methodist Hospital for a Preliminary PUD to allow a phased
expansion.
Case No 03-44-PUD
6700 Excelsior Blvd
Recommended
Action:
Motion to adopt a resolution approving the Preliminary PUD,
subject to the conditions included in the resolution.
Current Zoning: RC, Multi-family Residential
F2 - Floodplain
Comprehensive Plan Designation: Office
Background:
The subject property, Methodist Hospital, is bound by Excelsior Blvd and the Meadowbrook
Golf Course to the south; Louisiana Avenue and Minnehaha Creek to the west; industrial
property to the north; and single family homes to the east. The existing R-C Zoning on the
property allows hospitals by CUP or PUD. Methodist Hospital, built in 1957, is currently under
a special permit, which was first adopted in 1965 with the latest amendment in 1998. Flood
Plain and wetland are located on the west side of the property adjacent to the Methodist Hospital
campus.
Methodist is now proposing to convert the existing special permit to a planned unit development
(PUD). They are also requesting approval of two phases of new construction. Preliminary PUD
approval for Phase I and concept plan approval for the future Phase II projects are being
requested at this time. A PUD modification to the R-C District height restriction is also being
requested for the existing 8-story hospital building and a mechanical penthouse on top of the
proposed 6-story Heart & Vascular Center.
On June 16, 2003, the City Council approved a resolution approving an EAW, finding no need
for an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and requiring certain mitigation as described in the
EAW (the EAW included both a parking and traffic study conducted by SRF).
On November 19 and 21, 2002, Park Nicollet held neighborhood meetings to discuss their
proposed expansion of Methodist Hospital as well as future expansion of the Park Nicollet clinic
site (Park Center). A smaller neighborhood meeting was held by the City on December 11, 2002
to discuss the scope of the traffic studies associated with the expansions. Adjustments were
made to analyze traffic issues raised by the neighborhoods. On March 27, 2003, an additional
full-scale neighborhood meeting was held to discuss preliminary findings of the EAW for the
Methodist expansion and to discern if anything additional needed to be addressed. A public
hearing for the EAW was held at the May 21, 2003 Planning Commission meeting. On June 10,
16, 24, and July 8 and 22, 2003, PUD Process meetings were held with neighborhood
representatives to further discuss the proposed expansion of the Hospital and PUD process.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8f - Methodist prelimin PUD
Page 2 of 21
On July 29, 2003, a much larger community/neighborhood meeting was held to provide an
overview of the preliminary PUD prior to the Planning Commissions review.
On August 6, 2003, the Planning Commission held a public hearing and voted 4-0-1
(Commissioner Finkelstein abstained) to recommend approval of the Preliminary PUD subject to
the conditions recommended by staff. During the public hearing a resident requested that the
Commission consider attaching several additional conditions. These are outlined in the attached
Minutes. The Planning Commission recommended further consideration be given to the
comments voiced by the neighborhood. Staff has addressed several of the comments within the
staff report.
On August 12th and 26th, additional PUD process meetings were held with the neighborhood
representatives to further discuss design and neighborhood mitigation. To date, there have been
12 neighborhood meetings and two public hearings related to this project.
Existing Conditions:
Site Data:
PUD Size : 38.10 Acres
Current Land Use Hospital/Clinic
Proposed Land Use Hospital/Clinic
Other required approvals: Minnehaha Creek WatershedDistrict
PUD modification requested 1 (Height)
Building Area existing 782,427 square feet
After Proposed Phase I 956,727 square feet
FAR existing .47
After Proposed Phase I .58
GFAR existing .10
After Proposed Phase I .11
Parking
Existing 2,326 approx.
After Proposed Phase I 2,497
Description of Request:
Methodist is proposing a two phase expansion of their hospital facilities. Phase I includes the
demolition of the existing 32,500 square foot Tourtellotte building, located on the south side of
the hospital. This is proposed to be replaced with a new 206,800 square foot Heart and Vascular
Center. A new parking ramp is proposed in the Blue Parking Lot, south of the hospital closest to
Excelsior Blvd. The ramp would be connected to the Heart and Vascular Center by a covered
walkway. Proposed site circulation improvements are intended to improve the safety of the
Excelsior Blvd entry and to discourage its use by delivery vehicles and by patients, staff and
visitors who are better served by the north Louisiana Ave. entry. A site circulation diagram has
been submitted (this provides the long term goals of both Phase I & Phase II) but final design
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will be reviewed with the final PUD approval. Preliminary PUD approval is being requested for
Phase I at this time.
Phase II, includes building expansions planned for a future date. The application has not defined
the exact timing, size and location of these future expansions, however the applicant is proposing
to define a framework for the future development. The Concept Plan submitted identifies the
following projects as part of Phase II: horizontal expansion of the Meadowbrook Building,
vertical expansion of the east and west tower of the Hospital Building, future laboratory facility,
and a new parking ramp in the Orange Parking Lot on the north side of the building or the
northwest side of the Campus. Louisiana entry improvements are also proposed to increase the
utilization of this as an entrance point. The goal is to direct staff, patients and visitors to the
proper entry point and decrease the use of the internal connecting roadway east of the hospital,
adjacent to the residential properties. There has not been enough information provided for
Phase II to analyze it as part of this Preliminary PUD. Therefore, Phase II will require both
preliminary and final PUD approval.
The April 23, 2003 Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) analyzed a total hospital
building area of 1,235,927 square feet. This included approximately 209,000 square feet for
Phase I and 217,000 with phase II. The applicant is proposing to keep the total campus building
area below the total area analyzed in the EAW, however, the building area in each phase has
been modified. The applicant is proposing to construct less square footage with Phase I, 206,800
sq. ft, and more with Phase II, 279,200 sq. ft, than was analyzed in the EAW. Staff does not
believe this will have any substantial impact on the analysis or recommendations of the EAW.
Staff has confirmed this with SRF Consulting, who prepared the EAW.
The remainder of this staff report analyzes Phase I for Preliminary PUD.
Issues:
• Is the Proposed Development consistent with the Comprehensive Plan?
• Is the Preliminary PUD plan consistent with zoning ordinance requirements?
• Are the requirements of the PUD ordinance met, including all of the submittal
requirements?
• Are there any other issues?
Issue Analysis:
Is the Proposed Development consistent with the Comprehensive Plan?
The subject property is guided as Office. This land uses states, “The office designation currently
applies to 3% of the City’s land area….This category allows for concentrated areas of fairly
intensive office and mixed use development.”
The proposed project is for a 6-story hospital addition. Hospitals in the R-C District are required
to have an Office designation. Tall buildings, such as the Traveler’s Tower near I-394 and Hwy
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100 are expected in the office designation, and the current proposal is not as tall as some parts of
the existing hospital.
Plan By Neighborhood
This Section of the Comprehensive Plan currently states:
“This diverse neighborhood contains residential, industrial, and medical uses. Methodist
Hospital, recognized as a trauma unit, is retained as a major medical facility. Meadowbrook
Clinic is located immediately to the north of that facility. Access to both the clinic and hospital
is provided at Excelsior Boulevard and at Louisiana Avenue.”
Staff believes the proposal is compatible with this neighborhood plan provided neighborhood
impacts are minimized.
• Is the Preliminary PUD plan consistent with zoning ordinance requirements?
The zoning code permits hospitals by conditional use permit in the R-C High-Density Multi-
Family District. There are a number of conditions listed that need to be met in order to approve
the use. Parking ramps are also permitted in the RC district as accessory uses and have
additional requirements related to height, setbacks, and landscaping when located within 200 feet
of a residential or institutional use. The western portion of the property is located within the
100-year floodplain, which requires additional conditions.
Following are the applicable zoning ordinance standards and what is proposed for this project:
Compliance Table for Phase I
RC Ordinance Allowed by PUD Proposed
Building Height 6 stories or 75 feet No maximum if
consistent with the
Comprehensive Plan
Phase I: 6 stories/74 feet plus
18 feet for mechanical
penthouse.
Existing Hospital: 8 stories
(PUD modification requested)
Ramp Height 23.42 feet* Same
23 feet (elevation 925’– 4”)
Building Setbacks Front: 30 feet,
West Side: 49 feet
East Side:54 feet
Rear: NA:
No required yards Front: ~440 feet
West Side: 166 feet
East Side:253.5 feet
Rear: NA:
Ramp Setbacks Front: 30 feet
West Side: 15 feet
East Side: 50 feet
Rear: NA:
No required yards Front: 39.5 feet
West Side: ~52 feet
East Side: 117 feet
Rear: NA:
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Parking stalls Max required 2460
after 10% transit
reduction
2091 after allowable
15% reduction
2499 spaces
Landscape Buffers Bufferyard F required
for east property line
adjacent to residential
Same Bufferyard F
Floor Area Ratio 1.2 max Limited by height and
GFAR
.58
Ground Floor Area
Ratio
.25 max 5% increase .11
*See Parking Ramp condition A below
Floodplain. About a half of the western portion of the lot is located within the regulatory 100-
year flood plain. Portions of the existing building lie within the 100 year flood zone at an
approximate elevation of 893.4ft. The Zoning Code prohibits any fill in the floodplain unless
compensating storage is provided. The Heart and Vascular Center and parking ramp are
proposed to be outside the Flood boundary. The applicant is proposing to fill a portion of the
floodplain west of the proposed ramp and to provide the compensating storage in a nearby
location. Public Works has reviewed the proposal and finds it an acceptable solution. No actual
calculations have been submitted that show the balance of cut and fill. These will be required
prior to final PUD approval.
Hospital
a. Buildings located within 100 feet of any R-1, R-2 or R-3 district shall be limited to the
lesser of four stories or 45 feet. The height of all other buildings shall be regulated by
yard and floor area ratio requirements.
The building is proposed to be located 283 feet from residential property. The building height is
proposed to be 6 stories and 74 feet (or elevation 974 feet), excluding the penthouse, when
measured from the mean curb level along Excelsior Blvd (The building is proposed to be 70.5
feet or at an elevation of (or elevation 974 feet) on the east elevation excluding the penthouse).
See below for further discussions on the height of the building. The floor area ratio is proposed
to be .58 and the ground floor area is proposed to be .11, which are under the ordinance
maximum requirements.
The floor and ground floor area ratios noted above factors in the entire lot area, including
wetlands, per Code. Given the proximity of residential property and the fact that the location of
the wetlands requires the hospital density to be concentrated closer to the nearby residential, staff
believes it would be appropriate to analyze the net floor and ground floor area ratios for
Methodist’s proposed expansions. The net property area is approximately 1,190,059 sq. ft. Thus
for Phase I, the net floor area is proposed to be .80, and the net ground floor area is proposed to
be .15. Staff also estimated the ratios for Phase II based on the General Development Plan. Staff
estimated the net floor area to be approximately 1.04 after Phase II, and the net ground floor area
.19. Both of these are under the ordinance maximum requirements even without including the
wetland area which is allowed by Code. The neighborhood expressed interest in limiting the
total amount of floor and ground floor on this property. Should the City Council decide to
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recommend additional limits on future floor and ground floor area ratios, a condition of approval
should be added to the resolution. However, future phases would be required to go through
Preliminary and Final PUD approval. Therefore, the future proposed floor areas will be further
reviewed through the public hearing process.
b. Access shall be to a roadway identified in the comprehensive plan as a collector or
arterial or shall be otherwise located so that access can be provided without generating
significant traffic on local residential streets.
This condition is met. Access to Methodist’s property is via Excelsior Blvd to the south and
Louisiana Ave to the west. Excelsior Blvd is a Major Arterial and Louisiana is a Minor Arterial.
c. Internal traffic circulation shall be designed to minimize traffic within 100 feet of any
abutting residential property.
There is an existing internal roadway near the eastern property line abutting single family
properties. A bufferyard currently exists between the internal roadway and the single-family
property. The bufferyard is proposed to be improved (see below). A site circulation/vehicular
diagram has been submitted that details the applicant’s goals for improving internal traffic
circulation. Phase I improvements are proposed to include redesigning the intersection at
Excelsior Blvd. to improve vehicular and pedestrian safety. The entry drive will be improved to
efficiently move vehicles to the new entry plaza and parking ramp. Currently this entry drive
continues north and directly connects to the Emergency Department and north end of campus.
The applicant is proposing design features intended to discourage the use of this portion of the
roadway by creating the feel of a secondary roadway. Although easy access is necessary for
emergency vehicles, the applicant’s goal is to design the secondary roadway in a way that
diminishes the number of vehicles using Excelsior Blvd to access the north end of the campus.
Final plans for changes to the entry will be reviewed as part of the final PUD application. Staff
and the Planning Commission recommend these final plans be submitted as a condition of
approval.
Future revisions to the Louisiana Ave entry are also proposed as part of Phase II. A majority of
Methodist’s on-campus parking is on the north end of the campus. This location is anticipated to
become the “front door” for the majority of patients, visitors, vendors, and delivery vehicles.
Future revisions are planned for the entry drive to improve truck access, and create an easily
understood path to the future north front door. These changes will be reviewed with the future
Phase II proposal.
d. A bufferyard F shall be installed and maintained along any abutting R district.
A bufferyard F is proposed along the eastern property line adjacent to Phase I, the parking ramp
and Heart and Vascular Center. However, a more detailed analysis of the landscaping plan will
be conducted with Final PUD. The existing bufferyard between the residential properties and the
existing hospital and northern parking lots does not appear to meet Bufferyard F requirements,
thus is nonconforming. The applicant is proposing to provide a Bufferyard F in the future with
Phase II. The northern parking lot is also nonconforming with internal landscaping and lighting
requirements. The Zoning code prohibits approval of the PUD unless all nonconformities are
brought into compliance as a condition of approval. Staff believes the applicant should start
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addressing how they are going to bring all existing nonconformities into compliance. Therefore,
staff recommends a plan be submitted with Final PUD for bringing the nonconformities on the
site into compliance (e.g., Bufferyard F along residential on north part of site; parking lot
landscaping, lighting and other design aspects on north side). Staff is willing to work with the
applicant on this plan.
e. The property shall be designated for office use in the comprehensive plan.
This condition is met. The property is guided as Office.
Parking Ramp
The applicant is proposing to construct a four level parking ramp in the blue parking lot, south of
the hospital. Parking ramps are permitted as accessory uses in RC, Multi-Family Residential
District.
As stated the ramp is proposed to be four levels, two levels above ground level. It will hold
approximately 475-500 vehicles. The ramp is approximately 117 feet from residential properties
to the east.
Ingress and egress from the parking ramp occur on the east and north sides. To minimize
activity on the east side, this access is proposed to be for staff only. The north entrance would be
a public access. Staff, patients and family members benefiting from services within the new
Heart & Vascular Center will use the ramp.
Architecturally the ramp is proposed to use a combination of brick, concrete, aluminum, metal,
and cables. Three alternatives for the east elevation facing the residential properties have been
proposed. The architectural details will be further analyzed with final PUD. There are specific
requirements that limit lighting on the roof of the parking ramp so it is not visible from
neighboring residential uses. Lighting plans will also be analyzed further with Final PUD. Staff
and the Planning Commission recommend these as conditions of approval.
Conditions for approval of a parking ramp include:
a. The height of any parking ramp located within 200 feet of any parcel that is zoned
residential and used or subdivided for residential, or has an occupied institutional
building, including but not limited to schools, religious institutions, and community
centers, may not penetrate the height of a line commencing at and perpendicular to said
parcel and extending upward away from said parcel at a slope of five horizontal feet for
each vertical foot.
This condition is met. The proposed ramp is approximately 117 feet away from the residential
property to the east. This property line is at an elevation of 901 feet 11 inches. Based upon the
calculation above, the ramp cannot exceed 23.42 feet or an elevation of 925 feet 4 inches. The
ramp is proposed to be approximately 22 feet at the south end of the east elevation, and 23 feet at
the north end of the east elevation. During the public hearing a resident requested that a 6 foot
tall opaque wall be installed on the top level of the ramp to screen vehicles from the residential
properties. A 42 inch safety rail is required on all parking ramps. This rail is included in the
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proposed ramp height of 23 feet (924’ 3”). The ordinance allows parapet walls to extend 3 feet
about the maximum height. Therefore, staff has made the interpretation that a 3 foot parapet
screen wall could be installed on top of the 42 inch safety rail without a height variance. Staff
and the Planning Commission recommend limiting the ramp to no more than two levels above
ground level as proposed to ensure that the height does not increase at some point in the future.
b. The minimum yard requirement for any parking ramp located within 200 feet of any
parcel that is zoned residential and used or subdivided for residential, or has an
occupied institutional building, including but not limited to schools, religious institutions,
and community centers, shall be 50 feet.
This condition is met. The ramp is proposed to be approximately 117 feet from the residential
property.
c. The parking ramp shall be screened from view from any abutting property located within
an R district with a bufferyard F. This bufferyard shall include a B4 berm or Bw3 berm
wall if the parking ramp is above ground.
A Bufferyard F is proposed east of the ramp. As will be discussed in more detail below, some of
the trees for the bufferyard are proposed to be transplanted twice. Staff and the Planning
Commission recommend transplanting trees only once. The applicant is agreeable to this
recommendation. The berm or berm wall requirement may be proposed to be met as a
combination of grade differences, fence and architectural screening of the ramp. This will be
reviewed in more detail with Final PUD.
d. If the parking ramp is located within 400 feet of any parcel that is zoned residential and
used or subdivided for residential, or has an occupied institutional building, including
but not limited to schools, religious institutions, and community centers, all light sources
on the top deck of a parking ramp shall be below the sight lines drawn from a point one
foot about the light source to any point within said parcel ten feet lower than the
maximum structure height of that use district at a distance of 400 feet from the wall of the
parking ramp nearest to said parcel.
Typically an analysis of the lighting is required prior to the issuance of any building permit.
However as will be discussed further below, residents have expressed concerns with the light
levels associated with Phase I. Therefore staff and the Planning Commission recommend a
lighting plan be submitted for approval with final PUD. The PUD ordinance allows such
requirements to be added to “fully present the intention and character of the PUD” (Sec 36-
367(e)(4)(h)).
Other Ordinance Code Requirements:
Parking Standards
Hospitals require 1 space for each 350 square feet of gross floor area. Methodist utilizes both
on-campus and off-campus parking. The hospital campus currently has a total of 2,326 parking
spaces, 1,422 spaces are on-campus, and 1,112 are off-campus (See attached parking supply map
for parking locations). The City owns a triangular piece of property, which is shown as parking
lot in the northeast corner of Methodist’s plans. In 1998 Methodist entered into a 5 year lease,
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with the option to renew the lease for 3 additional 5 year terms (total of 20 years), to use the
City’s property for parking. In the event that the lease for parking on the City property or on
their leased off-site parking lot is not renewed the hospital must secure parking to replace the
leased spaces and maintain a minimum of 2499 spaces for the 956,727 sq. ft. hospital prior to
Phase II construction.
173 net parking spaces are proposed to be added with the construction of the blue ramp on the
south side of the hospital for a total of 2,499 spaces. The new ramp will have approximately 475
spaces, replacing the existing surface lot (302 spaces). Upon completion of Phase I, Methodist is
proposed to be 956,727sq ft. After applying a 10% transit reduction, and 15% PUD reduction
the required amount of parking per ordinance is 2,460 and 2,091 spaces respectively. Thus
parking requirements for Phase I are met, provided the off-site spaces are maintained. This will
be addressed at final.
To accommodate potential future parking demands (as documented in the EAW (4/23/03) and
Parking study (4/11/03) conducted by SRF), Methodist is proposing another new parking ramp
as part of the future Phase II. As identified on the Concept Plan (attached), the Orange Lot
Ramp is proposed to be on the western edge of the property within the current Orange Lot.
Tree removal/replacement and landscaping.
Both a tree removal and landscaping plans have been submitted. The tree removal plan proposes
to transplant approximately 52 existing trees to an undisturbed area on site. When construction
is complete, the trees are proposed to be relocated in designated areas proposed on the landscape
plan. Jim Vaughan, the City’s forester has determined that at least 8 of these trees are too large
to transplant twice successfully (including 4 - 10”cal. Ash, 10” cal. Weeping Cherry, 12” cal.
Ash, and 30’ high spruce). The forester also recommended that cooler weather or dormant
periods are best for transplanting. Staff is concerned that a majority of trees will not survive
being transplanted more than once as proposed on the tree removal and landscaping plan. The
City forester believes the success rate will be minimal. Therefore, staff and the Planning
Commission recommend that the trees identified for transplanting only be moved one time prior
to construction and new trees be planted after construction. Staff and the Planning Commission
recommend new tree replacement and landscape plans reflecting this change be submitted for
review with the Final PUD application.
As stated earlier, the landscape plan proposes a Bufferyard F along the eastern property adjacent
to Phase I. Staff is recommending a plan be submitted with Final PUD detailing how the
landscaping and other nonconformities on the north side of the site will be brought into
compliance.
Sidewalks and Trails.
There are existing sidewalks along Excelsior Blvd and Louisiana Ave., and internal sidewalks
and trails throughout the hospital campus. The applicant is proposing new sidewalks adjacent to
the new building and parking ramp. One of these is proposed to be located along the north side
of the parking ramp as a connection from Excelsior Blvd to the new building. During the
neighborhood meetings the applicant discussed a concept for a loop walking path throughout the
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hospital campus. This concept was not proposed as part of the preliminary PUD application.
Should the applicant decide to pursue this sidewalk loop, staff and the Planning Commission
recommend sidewalk plans be submitted with the final PUD application.
Grading and Utility Plan
Generally the preliminary grading and utility plans are found to be adequate.
Signage
Methodist Hospital’s existing signage, including freestanding entrance signs, building wall signs,
and some intercampus directional signs (some of the directional signs may be exempt from the
sign provisions), is currently over the ordinance’s maximum sign area limitations. Thus the
signs are technically nonconforming. The ordinance states that a PUD cannot be issued for a
property which contains a nonconformity unless that nonconformity is removed as a condition of
the approval. Some options to bring signage into compliance include reducing the amount of
signage, or obtaining an ordinance amendment or variance. A variance could potentially be run
with the final PUD if a public hearing is published at final. Staff and the Planning Commission
recommend the signage be brought into compliance or variance approved prior to approval of the
Final PUD and prior to the issuance of any new sign permits. An ordinance amendment is not
recommended since the hospital is a unique use in the R-C district, and staff believes the
variance findings can be met for this site if the sign ordinance proves too limiting.
Architectural Design
Details of the proposed architectural design will be reviewed as part of the Final PUD. However,
staff and the Planning Commission are recommending that alternative designs for the proposed
mechanical penthouse be submitted for consideration with the Final PUD. Ramp design will
also be further considered with Final PUD.
Height
The applicant is proposing a 6 story, 74 foot (as measured from the south elevation) tall Heart &
Vascular building plus an 18 foot high roof elevator/mechanical penthouse. This penthouse is
proposed to be approximately 13,850 square feet in area and is proposed to enclose an elevator
and mechanical equipment including fan units, water pump and blowers. The penthouse is
proposed to have a roof and be faced with metal paneling. The ordinance does permit elevator
penthouses to exceed the height limitations set forth in the zoning district by 50%. Staff has
made the determination that the penthouse proposed by the applicant is too substantial to be
interpreted as only an elevator penthouse. Thus both the building and the mechanical portion of
the penthouse are subject to the height standards set in the RC District. A PUD modification
from building height is required to approve the plans as submitted. Another option would be to
screen the mechanical equipment with parapet walls. Parapet walls up to 3 feet in height are
exempt from meeting the height requirements. However, taller walls would likely be needed.
Staff believes a PUD modification is appropriate for the penthouse height, as it will both screen
large mechanical equipment and will insulate noise from the neighborhood to the east. As stated
previously, staff and the Planning Commission are recommending alternative architectural
designs be submitted of the penthouse for review with final. Staff and the Planning Commission
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also recommend as a condition of approval that the Heart & Vascular floor area be limited to the
6 stories as shown in the plans.
Lighting
Lighting has been identified by neighborhood representatives as one of the top issues of concern.
This includes the overall lighting proposed with phase I and ramp lighting. A concern is that
there will be bright glaring light from the ramp that is difficult to screen and therefore, a higher
standard for lighting is preferred. A lighting plan has not been submitted. Typically, an analysis
of the lighting is required prior to issuance of a building permit, however due to the
neighborhood concerns staff is recommending that the lighting plan be submitted with the final
PUD.
The ordinance does have specific requirements for lighting of parking ramps that are near
residential properties as stated earlier. The ordinance also contains exterior lighting restrictions
intended to minimize the adverse effect of light on residential properties from vehicles and to
minimize spillover light and glare from on-site lighting. In general the light levels are restricted
to minimize light levels at the property lines, and protect neighboring parcels from glare through
the use of downcast fixtures, shields, louvers, prismatic control devices, and limitations on height
and type of fixtures. Staff will review the lighting plans, once received, to ensure they meet or
exceed the City’s ordinance standards. Lighting will also be required to meet the minimum IBC,
International Building Code standards.
Response from Hennepin County, Watershed District & DNR:
DNR Area Hydrologist stated that it appears adequate steps are being taken to contain any run
off and treat it before it gets to the wetland. Any permitting in the wetland can be done through
the Watershed District. A permit has been approved from the Minnehaha Creek Watershed
District.
Hennepin County submitted a letter with the following comments: (1) The existing 60 foot right-
of-way may be adequate for the future upgrading of Excelsior Blvd. (2) The access revisions
should be enhanced to allow better “free flow” for the southbound right turns from the site as
well as west bound right turn into the driveway. (3) A permit is required for all future
construction within county right of way.
Hennepin County’s vehicular flow comments seem to be in conflict with the neighborhood’s
desire for improved pedestrian safety. This will be further discussed before Final PUD.
• Are the requirements of the PUD ordinance met, including all of the submittal
requirements?
A. The design shall consider the whole of the project and shall create a unified environment
within project boundaries by ensuring architectural compatibility of all structures,
efficient vehicular and pedestrian circulation, aesthetically pleasing landscape and site
features, and design and efficient use of utilities.
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This will be reviewed in more detail prior to Final PUD consideration. However, staff
believes this condition can be met. Architectural compatibility between the existing
Heart & Vascular Center is proposed through use of similar materials, colors and building
massing. As noted, staff believes alternatives should be considered to use of metal on the
penthouse. Pedestrian circulation currently exists throughout the site and includes both
exterior sidewalks and interior walkways connecting buildings. Additional sidewalks and
trails are proposed to improve pedestrian circulation. Vehicular circulation is proposed to
improve internally throughout the site during both Phase I and Phase II.
Regarding landscape and site features, a significant amount of landscaping is proposed on
the site. The required bufferyards are proposed and in some cases are proposed to exceed
requirements. Rain gardens are proposed to meet required storm water and water quality
requirements. Some additional site amenities include statue, wooden bridge, and stone
walking path are proposed near the new Heart and Vascular Center. Other site features
include a natural wetland. A plan should be submitted to address the future removal of
the existing nonconforming bufferyard and other nonconformities on site.
B. The design of the PUD shall achieve the maximum compatibility of the project with
surrounding land uses, both existing and proposed, and shall minimize the potential
adverse impacts of the PUD on surrounding land uses and the potential adverse affects of
the surrounding land uses on the PUD.
The proposed PUD encompasses an existing hospital facility. The hospital has been in
existence since 1957. The expansion of the hospital facilities will increase traffic to the
campus and the amount of required parking. Strategies have been proposed to
accommodate parking and to improve traffic throughout the campus. The proximity of
single family residential homes to the east makes screening of the ramp and site lighting
very important. The proposed use with this PUD is compatible with the surrounding land
uses and is consistent with the uses identified by the Comprehensive Plan. The proposed
use is consistent with those identified by the Comprehensive Plan.
C. The design shall take into account any modifications of ordinance requirements
permitted by Section 36-367(d) of this ordinance and provide appropriate solutions to
eliminate the adverse impacts of any modification required for approval of the PUD.
The applicant is seeking a modification from the height requirement of 6 stories or 75
feet for the existing 8-story hospital building. This height was approved as part of the
special permit for the hospital in the 1960’s. At that time there were no vertical
limitations on structures. A Master Plan approved in 1990 identified the vertical
expansion of the central portion of the hospital. Staff believes the modification for the
existing building is appropriate.
A modification for the height of the Heart & Vascular Center is also required to approve
the plans as submitted. As stated earlier this height modification would be for an 18-foot
tall rooftop elevator/mechanical penthouse. The penthouse will screen the rooftop
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equipment as well as insulate noise from the residential properties to the east. Staff
believes the modification is appropriate.
• Are there any other Issues
Phasing:
Methodist’s general staging plan for Phase I proposes to demolish the Tourtellotte building in
November 2003, start site work and construction in January 2004, completion of the Blue ramp
is anticipated in October 2004, and completion of the Heart & Vascular Center is anticipated
August 2005.
There are several issues related to the demolition of the existing building related to construction
limits, staging of construction vehicles, noise & vibration, placement of construction debris, and
timing that will need to be addressed. Staff recommends this be addressed with the final PUD
application.
Neighborhood concerns:
As stated, Brooklawns neighborhood residents were involved in discussions during several
neighborhood meetings that have been held to discuss the proposed expansion projects. Below
are some of the main concerns expressed by the neighborhood residents in recent meetings.
Most of these issues have been addressed within this report:
• Lighting both for the ramp and the site overall. The amount and type of lighting is of
great concern to the neighborhood. The lighting on the parking ramp needs to be
looked at very carefully to ensure adequate containment and screening of light and
glare. Staff suggests Methodist propose lighting mitigation which exceed the
ordinances minimum standards.
• Internal campus traffic. The neighborhood expressed a desire to see traffic on the
internal roadway adjacent to their property lines (eastern side of Methodist’s
property) minimized through the utilization of traffic calming techniques, improving
Louisiana Entrance so that it becomes another main entrance, and additional signage
as part of Phase I. This will be addressed during Final PUD.
• Set the principles and policies identified in Methodist’s design story as a guiding
force for the future development plan. At the July 22, 2003 PUD process
neighborhood meeting a handout titled “The Methodist Hospital Campus Design
Story” was presented (See attachment). The neighborhood requested that the policies
and principles identified in this handout become the guiding force for planning and
implementation for the future campus expansion projects. The idea being that these
basic fundamental principals will provide a framework for the design of future
phases. Therefore staff recommends Methodist’s campus design or future phases
generally adhere to the principles set forth in the July 22, 2003 design plan document.
A neighborhood representative has suggested stronger language. However, some of
the policies and principles are beyond the scope of the PUD approval and staff does
not believe they are all appropriate as conditions of this approval.
• Traffic/Intersection at Excelsior Blvd. According to the neighborhood the entrance to
the hospital off of Excelsior Blvd is very dangerous for both vehicles and pedestrians.
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The residents are interested in a redesign of this entrance to create a safer intersection
and believe a traffic study for this area should be required. Methodist’s consultants
have submitted a concept plan for redesigning this intersection and will be working
with the County to determine feasibility. This will be further considered through
Final PUD.
• Building height. The height of the Heart & Vascular Center and ramp are of concern
to the neighborhood. The east elevation of the building is proposed to be 70.5 feet in
height, plus 18-foot tall penthouse for rooftop equipment. At the July 22, 2003
meeting the residents requested Methodist provide a pictorial representation,
depicting a whole campus view from various locations, of the east elevations which
also shows the proposed landscaping so they may better understand how the proposal
will look.
• Landscaping design. The neighborhood is requesting the applicant install adequate
landscaping to screen views and act as a buffer between uses. Ideally landscaping
that exceeds the City’s ordinance requirements is preferred. Currently, landscape
plans for the south side appear to meet requirements and will be further refined
through Final PUD. Plans for the north side have not yet been submitted.
• Construction limits. The timing, staging, noise and vibration impacts are of concern
to the residents. The applicant has offered to provide the residents with contacts
throughout the construction process so that concerns or questions may be addressed.
A phasing plan will be required as part of the final PUD process. Conditions limiting
construction activity will also be adopted through the Final PUD process.
During the public hearing the neighborhood requested that a public hearing be held during the
final PUD. The Planning Commission did not make this a condition. However, they suggested
that further consideration be given to the neighborhood comments. The Council should
determine if an additional public hearing is warranted for Final PUD. If a sign variance is
requested, a public hearing will be required.
Excelsior Blvd Reconstruction & Other Traffic Improvements:
Hennepin County has identified various construction projects for Excelsior Blvd. One project
from TH 100 to Dakota is scheduled to begin 2005 or 2006. Timing on the other Excelsior Blvd
projects, one from Dakota to Meadowbrook Rd and the other from Meadowbrook Road to Blake
Road are still up in the air. Concerns have been raised at the neighborhood meetings regarding
the safety, speed and other road conditions along Excelsior Blvd between Dakota Ave and
Methodist’s Campus. Methodist staff and consultants and City staff will be working with the
County to determine potential near-term solutions to improve safety in the Excelsior Blvd.
entrance area. Any recommendation could become part of the Final PUD approval. The
residents and Methodist will also have the opportunity to provide their input to Hennepin County
during their public process for the reconstruction of Excelsior Blvd.
The EAW recommends several traffic improvements, some of which are currently being further
reviewed by MnDOT. Some issues with necessary improvements in the Hwy 7 and Louisiana
area still need to be worked out with MnDOT. Also, Methodist Hospital will be required to pay
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8f - Methodist prelimin PUD
Page 15 of 21
its fair share for the required improvements. These issues have been addressed in the conditions
of approval.
Recommendation:
Staff and the Planning Commission recommend the City Council approve the Preliminary PUD
for the existing hospital and Phase I including the Heart & Vascular Center and parking ramp
subject to the conditions in the resolution.
Attachments: Location Map
Resolution
Preliminary PUD plans (supplement)
“The Methodist Hospital Campus Design Story” (supplement)
Submitted by: Julie Grove, Associate Planner
Approved By: Charles W. Meyer, City Manager
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8f - Methodist prelimin PUD
Page 16 of 21
Location Map
XCELSIOR BLVD
OWBROOK BLVD
LOUISIANA CIR
LOUISIANA AVE S39TH BRUNSWIC
ALABAMA
39TH ST W
DAKOTA AVE SCOLORADO AVE SBROOKVIEW LA
MEADOWBROOK
MANOR
PARK
Methodist Hospital
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8f - Methodist prelimin PUD
Page 17 of 21
RESOLUTION NO. 03-___
A RESOLUTION APPROVING A PRELIMINARY PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT
(PUD) UNDER SECTION 36-367 OF THE ST. LOUIS PARK ORDINANCE CODE
RELATING TO ZONING FOR PROPERTY ZONED R-C MULTI-FAMIY
RESIDENTIAL LOCATED AT 6700 EXCELSIOR BOULEVARD
METHODIST HOSPITAL
WHEREAS, an application for approval of a Planned Unit Development (PUD) was
received on June 30, 2003 from the applicant, and
WHEREAS, notice of a public hearing on the Preliminary PUD was mailed to all owners
of property within 350 feet of the subject property plus other affected property owners in the
vicinity and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission reviewed the Preliminary PUD concept at the
meeting of August 6, 2003 , and
WHEREAS, notice of public hearing on the Preliminary PUD was published in the St.
Louis Park Sailor on July 24, 2003, and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission opened the public hearing at the meeting of
August 6, 2003
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission recommended approval of the Preliminary PUD
on a 4-0-1 vote, and
WHEREAS, the City Council has considered the staff reports, Planning Commission
minutes and testimony of those appearing at the public hearing or otherwise including comments
in the record of decision.
BE IT RESOLVED BY the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park:
Findings
1. Park Nicollet Health Services has made application to the City Council for a Planned Unit
Development under Section 36-367 of the St. Louis Park Ordinance Code within the R-C Multi-
Family Residential district located at 6700 Excelsior Boulevard for the legal description as
follows, to-wit:
Par 1: That part of the Northeast Quarter of the Northeast Quarter of Section 20,
Township 117, Range 21, described as follows:
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8f - Methodist prelimin PUD
Page 18 of 21
Commencing at the Southeast corner of said Northeast Quarter of Northeast Quarter,
thence North to a point 90 feet South of the South line of Calhoun Street, thence West
parallel with the South line of Calhoun Street and the same extended, to a point 111 feet
West of the East line of Section 20, the actual point of beginning of the land to be
described; thence continuing West on said parallel line to the West line of Mount St.,
extended; thence North along said line and the West line of Mound St. 202.5 feet; thence
West parallel with the extension of the South line of Calhoun St., 644.9 feet to the
Southeasterly line of right of way of the Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul Railway Co.;
thence Southwesterly along said right of way line to the West line of the Northeast
Quarter of the Northeast Quarter of said Section; thence South to the Southwest Corner of
the Northeast Quarter of the Northeast Quarter; thence East along the South line of said
Northeast Quarter of Northeast Quarter of said Section to the point of intersection with a
line running parallel with the East line of said Section from the actual point of beginning;
thence North along said parallel line to the actual point of beginning.
Par 2: The Southeast Quarter of the Northeast Quarter that part of the North 1/2 of the
Southeast Quarter which lies North of the center line of Excelsior Boulevard, Section 20,
Township 117, Range 21 excepting therefrom that part which lies East of a line described
as follows:
Commencing at a point on the East line of said Section 90 feet South of the South line of
Calhoun Street; thence West parallel with the South line of Calhoun Street and the same
extended to a point 111 feet West of the East line of said Section the actual point of
beginning of the line to be described; thence South parallel with the East line of Section
20 to the center line of Excelsior Boulevard and except that part lying Southerly and
Westerly of a line drawn from a point in the West line of the Southeast Quarter of the
Northeast Quarter distant 425 feet South of the Northwest corner thereof to a point in the
South line of said Southeast Quarter of the Northeast Quarter distant 480 feet West of the
Southeast corner thereof; thence along said line projected Southeasterly to the
intersection with a line drawn 411 feet West of, measured at a right angle to and parallel
with the East line of the North 1/2 of the Southeast Quarter; thence South along last said
parallel line to the center line of Excelsior Boulevard and there terminating.
Subject to a power line easement over a strip of land 35 feet in width as set forth in the
record, Book 1045 of Deeds, page 41, the center line of which strip was described as
follows, to wit: Beginning at a point 17 1/2 feet West of the Southeast corner of said
Section 20, thence North parallel to East section line and equidistant therefrom to the
South line of Excelsior Boulevard sometimes called Hopkins Road; thence Northwesterly
to a point on the North line of said Excelsior Boulevard 128 1/2 feet West of said East
section line; thence North and parallel to said section line to a point 128 1/2 feet West of
said Section line and 14 feet South of the South line of said Lot 14, Block 78, in the
Village of St. Louis Park all as shown by plat on file herein of which a certified copy
shall be filed with the Registrar of Titles.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8f - Methodist prelimin PUD
Page 19 of 21
2. The City Council has considered the advice and recommendation of the Planning
Commission (Case No. 03-44-PUD) and the effect of the proposed PUD on the health, safety and
welfare of the occupants of the surrounding lands, existing and anticipated traffic conditions, the
effect on values of properties in the surrounding area, the effect of the use on the Comprehensive
Plan, and compliance with the intent of the Zoning Ordinance.
3. The City Council has determined that the PUD will not be detrimental to the health, safety, or
general welfare of the community nor with certain contemplated traffic improvements will it
cause serious traffic congestion nor hazards, nor will it seriously depreciate surrounding property
values. The Council has also determined that the proposed PUD is in harmony with the general
purpose and intent of the Zoning Ordinance and the Comprehensive Plan and that the requested
modifications comply with the requirements of Section 36-367(b)(5).
4. The contents of Planning Case File 03-44-PUD are hereby entered into and made part of the
public hearing record and the record of decision for this case.
Conclusion
The Preliminary Planned Unit Development at the location described is approved based on the
findings set forth above and subject to the following conditions:
1. The Preliminary PUD exhibits shall be amended prior to signing to accurately reflect
property lines and ownership and shall be subject to approved plan changes through the
final PUD process.
2. At least 30 days prior to final PUD consideration by the Planning Commission, applicant
shall submit complete final PUD application materials, which shall comply with
conditions of approval of the preliminary PUD and with issues identified in the staff
report including but not limited to:
a. Submit final plans for internal traffic circulation improvements and any near-term
changes to the Excelsior Blvd. entrance area.
b. Submit revised tree removal and landscape plans as recommended by staff.
c. Submit alternative materials for the design of the penthouse elevations and
continue to work with staff on the ramp design.
c. A lighting plan and photometrics plan meeting ordinance requirements must be
submitted. These shall include details for the interior and the roof of the parking
ramp.
d. A Phasing and construction staging plan that addresses the issues identified in the
staff report shall be submitted.
e. Submit sign variance applications or a plan for bring signage into compliance.
f. A plan must be submitted for bringing the nonconformities on the site into
compliance.
g. Floodplain calculations must be submitted.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8f - Methodist prelimin PUD
Page 20 of 21
3. Prior to Final PUD approval by the City Council the following issues shall be resolved:
a. A determination is made whether MnDOT will allow certain infrastructure
improvements in the Hwy 7 and Louisiana Avenue area (e.g. Louisiana & Lake St
and on Louisiana Ave at Hwy 7.)
b. The City and applicant agree to a cost sharing formula for any off-site
infrastructure improvements, which may be required in whole or as part of the
Methodist Hospital expansion proposal.
c. Variance approval for signage or plan approval for bringing signage into
compliance.
d. A plan must be approved for bringing the nonconformities on the site into
compliance.
e. City Attorney shall review off-site parking agreements to ensure parking remains
available prior to Phase II construction.
4. Final PUD approval and development is contingent upon developer meeting all
conditions of final approval including all Minnehaha Creek Watershed District
requirements.
5. Prior to any site work, the developer shall meet the following requirements:
a. A copy of the Watershed District permit shall be forwarded to the City.
b. Any other necessary permits from other agencies shall be obtained (i.e. Hennepin
County).
c. Sign assent form and Final PUD official exhibits.
d. Obtain the required demolition permit, erosion control permits, utility permits and
other permits required by the City, which may impose additional conditions.
e. A development agreement shall be executed between the developer and the City,
which covers at a minimum, sidewalk construction and maintenance, repair and
cleaning of public streets, construction conditions, off site infrastructure
improvements and cost share formulas, off-site parking, and criteria for
administrative amendments to the PUD.
f. Submit financial security in the form of cash escrow or letter of credit in the
amount of 125% of the costs of sidewalk installation and repair/cleaning of public
streets, and tree replacement.
g. Reimbursement of City attorney’s fees in drafting/reviewing such documents.
6. Prior to issuance of any building permits, which may impose additional requirements, the
developer shall comply with the following:
a. Meet any Fire Department emergency access requirements for during
construction.
c. Building materials samples shall be submitted to and approved by City.
d. An irrigation plan meeting the ordinance regulations shall be submitted to and
approved by the community development department.
7. A PUD ordinance modification to allow the existing hospital building to be 8 stories
rather than the required 6 as shown on the signed official exhibits is contingent upon final
approval.
8. A PUD ordinance modification to allow the 6 story/74 foot (elevation 974 feet) tall Heart
& Vascular Center to include 18 foot tall penthouse for mechanical equipment (total
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8f - Methodist prelimin PUD
Page 21 of 21
building and penthouse height of 92 feet, elevation of 992 feet 1 ½ inches) is contingent
upon final PUD approval including approval of exterior materials.
9. Methodist’s campus design should generally adhere to the principles set forth in the July
22, 2003 design plan document.
10. The developer shall comply with the following conditions during construction:
a. All City noise ordinances shall be complied with, including that there be no
construction activity between the hours of 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. on weekdays and 10
p.m. and 9 a.m. on weekends and holidays.
b. Loud equipment shall be kept as far as possible from residences at all times.
c. The site shall be kept free of dust and debris that could blow onto neighboring
properties.
d. Public streets shall be maintained free of dirt and shall be cleaned as necessary.
e. The Zoning Administrator may impose additional conditions if it becomes
necessary in order to mitigate the impact of construction on surrounding
properties.
11. The usable floor area of the Heart & Vascular Center is limited to no more than 6 stories
(192,950sq. ft) as shown on the official exhibits. The 13,500 sq. ft. penthouse may only
be used to store mechanical equipment.
12. The parking ramp may have no more than 500 parking spaces and four levels, two above
ground level with a maximum elevation of 925 feet 4 inches (or 23.42 feet) including a
42 inch safety rail. A 2.5 foot high parapet screen wall is permitted on top of safety rail
along the east elevation.
13. All signage on the site shall comply with the current zoning code including
nonconforming signage brought into compliance or a variance approved prior to final
PUD approval or issuance of any new sign permits as required any new permanent or
temporary signs.
14. The developer or owner shall pay an administrative fee of $750 per violation of any
condition of this approval.
15. Phase II is approved in general concept only and is required to obtain future Preliminary
and Final PUD approval.
Pursuant to Section 36-367(e)(6) of the Zoning Ordinance, the City will require execution of a
development agreement as a condition of approval of the Final P.U.D. The development
agreement shall address those issues which the City Council deems appropriate and necessary.
Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the City Council September 2, 2003
City Manager Mayor
Attest:
City Clerk
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8g - Dangerous Weapons
Page 1 of 4
8g. Resolution establishing city policy regarding dangerous weapons on city property
and Resolution requesting legislature to amend the MN Personal Protection Act.
Recommended
Action:
1. Motion to adopt resolution relating to public safety by
prohibiting dangerous weapons on city property.
2. Motion to adopt resolution supporting an amendment to the
2003 Minnesota Personal Protection Act.
Background:
The City Council wishes to provide for the safety of the public and City employees by adopting
rules which govern the carrying and possession of dangerous weapons on City property. The
first attached resolution sets forth the Council policy controlling City property. The second
attached resolution requests the State Legislature to amend the Minnesota Personal Protection
Act of 2003 to clarify that the cities do have the authority under statute to provide for reasonable
rules governing conduct on City property.
Attachments:
Resolution prohibiting dangerous weapons
Resolution supporting amendment to Minnesota Personal Protection Act
Prepared By: Charles W. Meyer, City Manager
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8g - Dangerous Weapons
Page 2 of 4
RESOLUTION NO. 03-____
A RESOLUTION RELATING TO PUBLIC SAFETY BY PROHIBITING
DANGEROUS WEAPONS ON CITY PROPERTY
WHEREAS, it is the policy of the City of St. Louis Park to protect the public health,
safety, and welfare; to protect employees of the city of St. Louis Park from fear of serious
injuries or death caused by dangerous weapons; to protect city employees by reducing the
potential for discharge of firearms at city work sites; and to reduce the potential for discharge of
firearms or use of other dangerous weapons in parks and other city property by prohibiting the
carrying and possession of dangerous weapons where members of the public may be present in
public areas or at public activities.
WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes, Section 624.72, Subdivision 3, authorizes the City
Council of the City of St. Louis Park to promulgate reasonable rules for the purpose of protecting
the free, proper and lawful access to, egress from and proper use of public property, and for the
purpose of protecting the conduct of public business therein or thereon, free from interference, or
disruption or the threat thereof.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of St. Louis
Park, Minnesota:
1. These terms as used in this resolution shall have the following meaning:
“City Property” means any park, playground, recreation center, town green, swimming
pool, nature center, or other building or real property that is owned, operated or controlled by the
city of St. Louis Park, except for streets, trails, or sidewalks.
"Dangerous weapon" means any firearm, whether loaded or unloaded, or any device
designed as a weapon and capable of producing death or great bodily harm, any combustible or
flammable liquid or other device or instrumentality that, in the manner it is used or intended to
be used, is calculated or likely to produce death or great bodily harm, or any fire that is used to
produce death or great bodily harm.
2. Effective immediately, no person shall be in possession or control of a dangerous
weapon on City Property, whether or not that person has been issued a permit pursuant to
Minnesota Statutes § 624.711, et. seq.
3. The prohibitions in paragraph 2 do not apply to the following individuals: any
member of the armed forces of the United States while engaged in the performance of a duty in
compliance with a statute, regulation, rule, or order duly promulgated and issued under the
authority of the federal government; any member of the militia of the state while engaged in the
performance of a duty prescribed by law; any licensed peace officer authorized by state law to
possess or carry firearms; a person duly licensed and permitted to possess a firearm who is on
duty performing security services as part of his or her employment as a security guard or
protective agent; any federal agent who is authorized to carry a firearm; or any person
possessing, transporting, or carrying a firearm in commerce in accordance with applicable
federal law.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8g - Dangerous Weapons
Page 3 of 4
4. The City Manager shall establish policies consistent with this resolution,
including publishing or posting reasonable notice.
Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the City Council
_______________, 2003.
___________________________ ___________________________________
City Manager Mayor
Attest:
___________________________
City Clerk
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 090203 - 8g - Dangerous Weapons
Page 4 of 4
RESOLUTION NO. 03 - ___
RESOLUTION SUPPORTING AN AMENDMENT TO
THE 2003 MINNESOTA PERSONAL PROTECTION ACT
WHEREAS, the Minnesota Legislature passed and the Governor signed into law the
“Minnesota Personal Protection Act,” in which Minnesota residents, subject to application and
qualification, shall be issued permits to carry guns; and
WHEREAS, the Act provides the owners of private properties may post signs and
regulate the ability of permit holders to carry concealed guns; and
WHEREAS, the Act makes it a crime for permit holders to carry firearms on school
property; and
WHEREAS, some individuals and organizations have interpreted the law to prohibit
cities from restricting permit holders from carrying concealed guns on municipal property; and
WHEREAS, the Council is vitally concerned about the safety of its employees, and
public safety of the users and visitors of City properties; and
WHEREAS, the Council can find no rational justification to distinguish between access
by permit holders to school property and private property, and access by permit holders to City
property; and
WHEREAS, the greater presence of weapons on City property may increase insurance
premiums, and the cost of government services; and
WHEREAS, time is of the essence for legislators to reconsider and amend the Act for
the public safety of public employees and users of public facilities; and
WHEREAS, until such time as the legislature acts to clarify that the City’s existing
statutory right to reasonably regulate the use of City property still exists, the City will take
reasonable steps to protect the safety of its employees and the public safety of the users of City
property.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Council of the City of St. Louis
Park, Minnesota: That it supports an amendment to the Minnesota Personal Protection Act, to
clarify that cities have the right to regulate the ability of permit holders to carry weapons on city
property.
Reviewed for Administration Adopted by the City Council September 2, 2003
City Manager Mayor
Attest:
City Clerk