HomeMy WebLinkAbout2002/09/17 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - City Council - RegularAGENDA SUMMARY
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
September 17, 2002 – 7:30 p.m.
Board and Commission Interviews – 6:15 p.m., Westwood Room
Economic Development Authority – No Meeting
Study Session – To follow immediately after regular business meeting
1. Call to Order
a. Pledge of Allegiance
b. Roll Call
2. Presentations
a. Proclamation for AAA Minneapolis - 100 year anniversary
b. Evergreen Award Recipients
3. Approval of Minutes
a. City Council Minutes of September 3, 2002 Document
Action: Corrections/amendments to minutes - Minutes approved as presented
4. Approval of Agenda and Items on Consent Calendar
NOTE: The Consent Calendar lists those items of business which are considered to be routine and/or which need
no discussion. Consent items are acted upon by one motion. If discussion is desired by either a Councilmember or a
member of the audience, that item may be moved to an appropriate section of the regular agenda for discussion.
Action: Motion to approve the agenda as presented and to approve items listed on
the consent calendar
(Alternatively: Motion to add or remove items from the agenda, motion to move items
from consent calendar to regular agenda for discussion and to approve those items
remaining on the consent calendar).
5. Boards and Commissions - None
6. Public Hearings - None
7. Requests, Petitions, and Communications from the Public - None
8. Resolutions, Ordinances, Motions - None
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 17, 2002
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 the contract with Three Rivers Park District, formerly Hennepin
Parks, to clear and remove snow from the LRT and Cedar Lake Extension Trails through
the City of St. Louis Park. Document
4b Bid Tabulation: Motion to designate Ron Kassa Construction, Inc. as the lowest
responsible bidder and authorize execution of a contract with the firm in the amount of
$47,104.00 for Alley Improvement Project-2900 block between Florida & Edgewood
Avenues, Project No. 02-13 Document
4c Motion to adopt the attached resolution authorizing the installation of a Stop sign on
south-bound Monterey Avenue at W. 40th Street Document
4d Motion to designate Thomas & Sons Construction, Inc. the lowest responsible bidder
and authorize execution of a contract with the firm in the amount of $485,842.75 for the
2002 Sidewalk Improvement Project-Phase A – City Project No. 02-01A and for
conduit/handhole construction for future LOGIS fiber optic connection Document
4e Motion to adopt resolution authorizing final contract payment for Midwest Asphalt
Corporation, Contract No. 44-01, W. 16th Street/Zarthan Avenue in the amount of
$29,232.86 Document
4f Motion to adopt resolution authorizing final contract payment for Tjader & Highstrom,
Contract No. 37-02 in the amount of $152,754.22 Document
4g Motion to accept for filling: Human Rights Commission Meeting Minutes – July 17,
2002 Document
4h Authorize Reimbursement for City Manager Exchange Program Expenses Document
4i Motion to approve resolution authorizing amendment of the Southwest Mutual Aid
Agreement Document
4j Motion to accept August Financial Reports Document
4k Motion to accept Vendor Claim Reports (Supplement)
AGENDA SUPPLEMENT
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
September 17, 2002
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: 091702 - 3a - Council Minutes September 3, 2002
Page 1 of 5
UNOFFICIAL MINUTES
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
ST. LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA
September 3, 2002
1. Call to Order
Mayor Jacobs called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m.
The following Councilmembers were present at roll call: Jim Brimeyer, Ron
Latz, Chris Nelson, Susan Sanger, Sue Santa, Sally Velick, and Mayor Jeff
Jacobs.
Also present were the City Manager (Mr. Meyer); City Attorney (Mr. Scott);
Community Development Director (Mr. Harmening); Director of Finance (Ms.
McGann); Director of Inspections (Mr. Hoffman); Planning and Zoning
Supervisor (Ms. Jeremiah); Associate Planner (Ms. Grove); and Recording
Secretary (Ms. Samson).
2. Presentations
2a. Proclamation – Food Safety Education Month
Mayor Jacobs presented a Proclamation to Director of Inspections Brian Hoffman
to recognize Food Safety Education Month.
2b. Graduating Senior Class Presentation to Council
On behalf of the St. Louis Park Graduating Senior Class of 2002, three parents of
the Class of 2002 extended their appreciation to the Council and to the City.
3. Approval of Minutes
3a. City Council Minutes of August 19, 2002
The minutes were approved as presented.
3b. City Council Study Session minutes of August 19, 2002
The minutes were approved as presented.
4. Approval of Agenda and Items on Consent Calendar
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 091702 - 3a - Council Minutes September 3, 2002
Page 2 of 5
4a Approve the joint powers agreement with the school district for the
purchase and maintenance of the playground equipment at Nelson Park.
4b Accept minutes of Board of Zoning Appeals June 27, 2002 for filing
4c Accept minutes of Planning Commission August 7, 2002 for filing
4d Accept minutes of Charter Commission May 15, 2002 for filing
4e Accept minutes of Human Rights Commission June 19, 2002 for filing
4f Adopt Resolution No. 02-097 revoking the current resolution and
authorizing the removal of parking restrictions on the north side of Cedar
Shore Drive from France Avenue, east to the City boundary; and
reestablishing “No Parking” restrictions on the south side of Cedar Shore
Drive from France Avenue, east to the City boundary
4g Accept vendor claim report for filing (supplement)
It was moved by Councilmember Nelson, seconded by Councilmember Sanger, to
approve the Agenda and items listed on the Consent Calendar.
The motion passed 7-0.
5. Boards and Commissions - None
6. Public Hearings - None
7. Requests, Petitions, and Communications from the Public
7a. Approve preliminary 2003 property tax levy, budget for the 2003 fiscal
year, revisions to the 2002 adopted budget, and set Public Hearing date
on proposed budget and property tax levy. Resolution No. 02-091
Director of Finance Jean McGann spoke. Ms. McGann said the Council is being
asked to set the levy at the maximum amount allowed by State statute, which
represents approximately a 1.9% increase from the 2002 adopted budget. Ms.
McGann stated that in reviewing the 2003 proposed budget the overall general
fund budget is indicating a 3.4% increase, of that 1.9% is for property taxes; 1.0%
is intergovernmental revenue; and 0.5% is permit revenue. Council is being
requested to set a public hearing for December 2, 2002 to solicit public input and
provide a greater explanation of the budget itself.
It was moved by Councilmember Sanger, seconded by Councilmember Santa, to
adopt Resolution No. 02-091 establishing the preliminary tax levy and budget for
2003, approves revisions to the 2002 adopted budget and sets public hearing date
for proposed budget and property tax levy.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 091702 - 3a - Council Minutes September 3, 2002
Page 3 of 5
The motion passed 7-0.
7b. Resolution authorizing an HRA levy
It was moved by Councilmember Sanger, seconded by Councilmember Nelson, to
adopt Resolution No. 02-092 setting HRA levy for 2003.
The motion passed 7-0.
7c. Contract for Patrol Officer and Support Services Agents 1/1/02 –
12/31/03
Human Resources Manager Nancy Gohman said one issue in regard to the labor
agreement was how St. Louis Park police officers’ base wages compare to market
and, in 2003, St. Louis Park police officers’ base wages will hedge just slightly
above average. Ms. Gohman said the performance pay program will remain in
effect for certain assignments.
It was moved by Councilmember Sanger, seconded by Councilmember Santa, to
adopt Resolution No. 02-093 approving a Labor Agreement between the City and
Law Enforcement Labor Services Inc. (Local #206) for our Police Officers and
Support Services Agents, establishing terms and conditions of employment for two
years: 1/1/02 – 12/31/03.
The motion passed 6-1. (Councilmember Nelson opposed).
7d. Request for a Conditional Use Permit and variance for a mixed
use/residential-office building at 1155 Ford Road. Case Nos. 02-41-
VAR and 02-40-CUP, 1155 Ford Road.
Resolution No.’s 02-094 and 02-095
Associate Planner Julie Grove presented a Staff report.
Mayor Jacobs asked for an explanation of hardi plank. Planning and Zoning
Supervisor Janet Jeremiah said hardi plank is a cement-based product made to
look like wood siding, and Staff has previously approved it as a Class II material
on residential buildings. Ms. Jeremiah said prior to approval, the applicant is
required to submit the actual building materials.
Councilmember Velick commented that she is disappointed that the billboard will
remain.
Councilmember Sanger asked, for a CUP in a mixed use/residential-office
building, what is the minimum office threshold for the building given that it is
situated in a C2 district? Ms. Grove said the residential portion must represent a
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 091702 - 3a - Council Minutes September 3, 2002
Page 4 of 5
maximum of 30% of the ground floor area of the total development, and Ms.
Jeremiah added that the maximum density is 50 units per acre in the C2 General
Commercial.
Like Councilmember Velick, Councilmember Sanger is concerned about the
potential for inadequate guest parking. Ms. Grove said the parking plan meets the
ordinance requirements.
Councilmember Nelson is concerned about the numerous types of faces or siding,
i.e., stucco, glass, rock face CMU, hardi plank, metal facia, and brick.
Applicant Sally Laid from Elness Swensen Graham Architects said the majority
of the building’s exterior will be stucco.
It was moved by Councilmember Velick, seconded by Councilmember Nelson, to
adopt Resolution No. 02-094 approving the Conditional Use Permit and
Resolution No. 02-095 approving the variance subject to the conditions included
in the resolutions.
The motion passed 7-0.
7e. Preliminary and Final Plat for Vail in the Park at 3647 Sumter Ave. S.
and 7850 37th Street W. Case No. 02-39-s
Resolution No. 02-096
Ms. Grove presented a Staff report. Staff recommends no development
agreement be required.
Councilmember Sanger asked if the requirements regarding the number of
parking spaces and the number of residents to be no more than seven will run with
the land, and Ms. Grove replied yes.
It was moved by Councilmember Santa, seconded by Councilmember Velick, to
adopt Resolution No. 02-096 approving the preliminary and final plat, subject to
conditions in the resolution, and waiving the requirement for a development
agreement.
The motion passed 7-0.
8. Resolutions, Ordinances, Motions--None
9. Communications
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 091702 - 3a - Council Minutes September 3, 2002
Page 5 of 5
City Manager: City Manager Charlie Meyer said the St. Louis Park police and
fire departments will sponsor a brief ceremony at the Rec Center at approximately
9:00-9:30 a.m. on September 11th.
Councilmember Nelson: Councilmember Nelson is reminding everyone that the
primary election is Tuesday, September 10th.
Councilmember Latz: Councilmember Latz said there are some local primaries
relating to the legislative races, and some state-wide offices are having primary
elections.
Mayor Jacobs: Mayor Jacobs reported that he attended the Day 1 Celebration
today, the purpose of which is to welcome St. Louis Park students to school.
10. Adjournment
Mayor Jacobs adjourned the meeting at 8:30 p.m.
__________________________________________ ____________________________________
City Clerk Mayor
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 091702 - 4a - Three Rivers Park District Plowing Contract
Page 1 of 1
4a Motion to approve the contract with Three Rivers Park District, formerly
Hennepin Parks, to clear and remove snow from the LRT and Cedar Lake
Extension Trails through the City of St. Louis Park.
Background
The southwest LRT and the Cedar Lake extension trials are owned and maintained by Three
Rivers Park District, formerly Hennepin Parks. However, Three Rivers Park District does not
clear or remove snow from their trails during the winter. They will allow cities to plow snow
from their trails under a signed contractual agreement.
Trail Clearing Contract
The City of St. Louis Park did clear and remove snow from the LRT trail during the 2000-2001
and 2001-2002 winter seasons. This service was very appreciated by many of our residents who
use the trail all year. As a part of the snow removal policy, staff recommends the City of St.
Louis Park clear the regional trails through our City since Three Rivers Park District does not.
Approving this contract would allow us to do so for the winter of 2002-2003.
Clearing or removing snow from the LRT trail would be done in much the same manner and
priority as last year. Clearing the Cedar Lake Extension will be more difficult. There are some
areas where the trail is 10 feet wide with only a 12-foot wide easement. The trails would be
cleared as a part of the Public Works snow removal policy. If there are times when the City gets
several inches of snow at one time, it may be difficult for maintenance staff to remove the snow
since there is no room to store it and no way to access the trail to remove it. Staff will keep the
City Manager and City Council informed if the snow accumulations are significant and
maintenance is not able to remove the snow. The contract with Three Rivers Park District states
that the City must repair any damage to the trail done by the local municipalities while plowing
snow. Staff will take precautions to prevent damage in our snow removal process.
Continuing Authorization of Contract
It does not appear that Three Rivers Park District will assume the responsibility to remove snow
from their regional trails. The City of St. Louis Park will be asked to sign a contract annually to
remove snow on the LRT and Cedar Lake Extension trails.
Attachments: Contract (supplement)
Prepared by: Cynthia S. Walsh, Director of Parks and Recreation
Approved by: Charles W. Meyer, City Manager
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 091702 - 4b - Bid Tab Florida Edgewood Alley Project
Page 1 of 1
Bid Tabulation: Motion to designate Ron Kassa Construction, Inc. as the lowest
responsible bidder and authorize execution of a contract with the firm in the
amount of $47,104.00 for Alley Improvement Project-2900 block between Florida
& Edgewood Avenues, Project No. 02-13
Background: Bids were received on Thursday, September 5, 2002 for the construction of a
concrete alley in the 2900 block between Florida & Edgewood Avenues. An Advertisement for
Bids was published in the St. Louis Park Sun-Sailor on August 14th and 21st, 2002 and in the
Construction Bulletin on August 16th and 23rd, 2002. Following is a summary of the bid results:
Bidder Bid Amount
Ron Kassa Construction, Inc. $47,104.00
Standard Sidewalk, Inc. $55,230.00
Progressive Contractors, Inc. $69,920.00
Gladstone Construction, Inc. $69,954.00
Engineer’s Estimate $56,250.00
Evaluation of Bids: A total of four (4) contractors submitted bids. A review of the bids
indicates Ron Kassa Construction submitted the lowest bid. This contractor has satisfactorily
completed a number of similar projects for the City. Staff has determined that Ron Kassa
Construction submitted the lowest responsible bid and recommends that a contract be awarded to
the firm in the amount of $47,104.00.
Financial Considerations: All costs of the alley paving project will be assessed to the abutting
property owners. A total of 23 properties will be assessed.
Assessment Considerations: The public hearing and assessment hearing were held on August
5th. Property owners had 30 days to file an appeal from the date of the assessment hearing. The
30-day appeal period expired on September 5, 2002 and as of September 9th, the City has
received no appeals.
Construction Timing: Work on the alley is expected to begin during the week of Sept. 30th.
Prepared by: Maria A. Hagen, City Engineer
Reviewed by: Scott Merkley, Public Works Coordinator
Approved by: Charles W. Meyer, City Manager
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 091702 - 4c - Stop Signs at 40th and Monterey
Page 1 of 3
4c Motion to adopt the attached resolution authorizing the installation of a Stop sign
on south-bound Monterey Avenue at W. 40th Street
Background: The City of Edina recently informed staff that they are interested in installing 2-
way “Stop” signs at the intersection of 40th Street and Monterey Avenue. The City of Edina
received a request for this installation after observing 3 accidents in the past 5 years at this
intersection.
They are recommending that the signs be installed on the north and south side of the intersection,
to stop traffic traveling on Monterey Avenue. Currently, the intersection is unsigned in all
directions.
Analysis: Since the northern part of this intersection lies within the City of St. Louis Park, the
City of Edina must have the approval of St. Louis Park, before it can proceed with the
installation. Installing only one “Stop” sign is hazardous and is not recommended.
Although the accident history does not meet St. Louis Park’s Stop Sign Installation Policy (5
accidents in 3 years), it does meet the criteria for Edina’s Installation Policy. Therefore, St.
Louis Park staff is amenable to the installation of these signs. However, feedback from the
neighborhood was solicited prior to bringing this item before the City Council for consideration.
On September 3, 2002, staff mailed a notice to residents in a 600-foot radius of the intersection
to inform them about the request and to seek input on the installation. As of Tuesday, September
10th, staff has received 16 responses from residents. All support the installation. Specific
comments are summarized in the attachment.
Recommendation: Staff recommends approving this request by adopting the attached
resolution authorizing installation of a “Stop” sign on the southbound leg of Monterey Avenue at
40th Street.
Attachments: Summary of resident comments
Map
Resolution
Prepared by: Maria A. Hagen, City Engineer
Reviewed by: Scott Merkley, Public Works Coordinator
Approved by: Charles W. Meyer, City Manager
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 091702 - 4c - Stop Signs at 40th and Monterey
Page 2 of 3
Comments Received Regarding Sign Installation:
Name Address Comment
Josh Gruber 4608 W. 39th Street In favor of sign installation
Michele Barry 4524 W. 39th Street In favor of sign installation; has seen
accidents occur at this intersection
Nancy Dreisen 3908 Lynn Ave. In favor of sign installation
John Schaefer 3913 Lynn Ave. In favor of sign installation; would
also like Stop or Yield signs at 39th
& Lynn
Duane Glisan 3933 Lynn Ave. In favor of sign installation;
understands reasoning for stopping
Monterey instead of 40th traffic
Suzanne Giuntoli 3900 Monterey Ave. In favor of sign installation
Harvard Orr/Polly Gross 3905 Monterey Ave. In favor of sign installation; resident
since 1939
Julie Youngren 3908 Monterey Ave. In favor of sign installation
Andy McGarvey 3909 Monterey Ave. Supports sign installation; has
observed 3 unreported accidents at
this intersection
Allen Middleton 3912 Monterey Ave. Very much in favor of Stop signs;
would like staff to examine
possibility of 4-way Stop at this
intersection
Steve Sullivan 3913 Monterey Ave. In favor of sign installation; wife
was involved in an accident at this
intersection 5 years ago
Diane Kramer 3917 Monterey Ave. Strongly supportive of Stop signs
Sue Morrison 3925 Monterey Ave. In favor of sign installation; has seen
many near misses at this intersection
Mary Gindorff 3928 Monterey Ave. In favor of signs but would rather
have traffic stopped on 40th; has
lived at this location over 40 years;
straight shot from Joppa to Natchez
Phil Freshman 3912 Natchez Ave. In favor of sign installation
Dawn Mullen 3936 Natchez Ave. In favor of sign installation; her
children bike to school along this
route
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 091702 - 4c - Stop Signs at 40th and Monterey
Page 3 of 3
RESOLUTION NO. 02-XXX
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING INSTALLATION
OF A STOP SIGN ON
MONTEREY AVENUE AT W. 40TH STREET
(SOUTH-BOUND APPROACH)
WHEREAS, the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota has been requested, has studied, and
has determined that traffic controls are necessary at this location.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of St. Louis
Park, Minnesota, that:
The Director of Public Works is hereby authorized to:
1. Install a stop sign on Monterey Avenue at W. 40th Street, (southbound approach).
2. Inform the City of Edina to install a stop sign on Monterey Avenue at W. 40th Street
(northbound approach) at the same time.
Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the City Council September 17, 2002
City Manager Mayor
Attest:
City Clerk
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 091702 - 4d - Bid Tab Sidewalk Project
Page 1 of 1
4d Bid Tabulation: Motion to designate Thomas & Sons Construction, Inc. the lowest
responsible bidder and authorize execution of a contract with the firm in the amount
of $485,842.75 for the 2002 Sidewalk Improvement Project-Phase A – City Project
No. 02-01A and for conduit/handhole construction for future LOGIS fiber optic
connection.
Background: This project was initiated in order to construct new sidewalk segments recommended in
the Sidewalk, Trail, Bikeway and Crossings Plan. This is the first phase of the second year’s program.
Because these segments will be financed with State Aid funds, Mn/DOT review was necessary and
resulted in delaying bidding and construction until this Fall.
The following sidewalk segments will be built under this contract:
Street From To Side
West 28th Street Texas Ave. Dakota Ave. North
Bid Analysis: Bids for the Phase A project were received on September 12, 2002. An Advertisement
for Bids was published in the St. Louis Park Sun-Sailor on August 28 and September 4, 2002 and in
the Construction Bulletin on August 16, 23, and 30, 2002.
A summary of the bid results is as follows:
Contractor Base Bid Alt. A Bid Amount
Thomas & Sons Construction,
Inc.
472,585.60 13,257.15 485,842.75
Midwest Asphalt Corporation 488,143.65 12,190.00 500,333.65
Ron Kassa Construction 549,872.50* 23,275.00 573,147.50
Engineer’s Estimate $503,574.00 $ 11,350.00 $514,924.00
* Denotes correction upon extension.
An alternate bid was solicited to install conduit below the sidewalk. This conduit is being installed to
facilitate future connection of City facilities to LOGIS’ computer network and is funded by the City’s
Technology Replacement Fund.
A total of three (3) contractors submitted bids. A review of the bids indicates Thomas & Sons
Construction, Inc. submitted the lowest bid. This contractor has satisfactorily completed a number of
similar projects for the City. Staff has determined that Thomas & Sons Construction, Inc. submitted
the lowest responsible bid and recommends that a contract be awarded to the firm in the amount of
$485,842.75, (including the alternate bid).
Financial Considerations: All costs of this sidewalk construction project will be paid using State Aid
monies except for the costs associated with the conduit installation.
Prepared By: Maria A. Hagen, City Engineer
Reviewed By: Scott Merkley, Public Works Coordinator
Approved By: Charles W. Meyer, City Manager
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 091702 - 4e - Final Contract Payment Midwest
Page 1 of 1
RESOLUTION NO. 02-099
RESOLUTION ACCEPTING WORK ON
W. 16TH STREET/ZARTHAN AVENUE
CITY PROJECT NOS. 00-15, 00-16, & 01-12
CONTRACT NO. 44-01
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 May 7, 2001, Midwest Asphalt Corporation
has satisfactorily completed the storm sewer, curb and gutter, bituminous, signal system, street
lighting, and concrete work at W. 16th Street/Zarthan Avenue, as per Contract No. 44-01.
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 17, 2002
City Manager Mayor
Attest:
City Clerk
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 091702 - 4f - Final Contract Payment Tjader
Page 1 of 1
RESOLUTION NO. ______________
RESOLUTION ACCEPTING WORK ON
EXCELSIOR BOULEVARD WATERMAIN PIPE BURSTING
CITY PROJECT NO. 02-10
CONTRACT NO. 37-02
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 April 15, 2002, Tjaser & Highstrom has
satisfactorily completed the Excelsior Boulevard watermain pipe bursting as per Contract No.
37-02.
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 17, 2002
City Manager Mayor
Attest:
City Clerk
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 091702 - 4g - HRC Minutes July
Page 1 of 3
City of St. Louis Park
Human Rights Commission
Meeting Minutes – July 17, 2002
Westwood Room - City Hall
Present
Commission Members: Shep Harris, Julie Kirsch, and Kristi Rudelius-Palmer
Staff: Martha McDonell, staff liaison, and Linda Samson, recording secretary
Absent
Commission Members: Cassandra Boddy, Patrick Rogers and Kristin Siegesmund
Call to Order
Acting Chair Kristi Rudelius-Palmer called the meeting to order at 7:08 p.m.
June 2002 Minutes: Kristi Rudelius-Palmer requested the sentence, “Kristi Rudelius-Palmer will also
bring ideas for an implementation model,” be deleted from page 3 of the June minutes. Moved by
Shep Harris and seconded by Julie Kirsch to approve the June 2002 minutes with the correction.
Motion passed unanimously.
July Agenda: Martha McDonell suggested item IV, New Business, Home Depot, be deleted due to
Kristin Siegesmund’s absence. Moved by Julie Kirsch and seconded by Shep Harris to approve the
amended agenda. Motion passed unanimously.
Reports
Staff Report: Martha McDonell announced the resignation of Herb Isbin. Kristi Rudelius-Palmer
agreed with Kristin Siegesmund’s earlier suggestion to recognize Isbin with a plaque, and a Human
Rights pledge signed and sent to Isbin.
McDonell said Patrick Rogers communicated by e-mail his specific interest in the work plan, and his e-
mail was distributed to the members.
McDonell said a notice appeared on the front page of the July-August 2002 Park Perspective stating
that the Human Rights Commission is seeking members. Kristi Rudelius-Palmer thanked Lynn
Schwartz for its prominent appearance.
Shep Harris reported an individual who was on trial for threats made against three synagogues last
summer, one located in St. Louis Park, has been convicted.
Old Business
Commissioner Recruitment: Kristi Rudelius-Palmer said the Park Perspective is a great tool to
recruit new commissioners. Martha McDonell suggested the following ways in which to recruit
commissioners: contact the school volunteer office, advertise at private schools for high school
students, and contact churches and synagogues. Rudelius-Palmer suggested contacting community
organizations to ask that they post a recruitment announcement. Shep Harris suggested contacting
ethnic newspapers, and the Louisiana Court apartment complex and PPL (Project for Pride in Living).
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 091702 - 4g - HRC Minutes July
Page 2 of 3
McDonell will talk to Kathy Larsen, St. Louis Park Housing Programs Coordinator. Harris said he
would like to be the contact person from the Human Rights Commission to the Louisiana Court
apartment complex.
Harris suggested a Human Rights commissioner be present during the interview process for Human
Rights commissioners. McDonell said something may be set up with the City Clerk. McDonell would
like for potential candidates to attend a Human Rights meeting prior to an interview with the City
Council. Harris will prepare a letter to the City Council and the School Board regarding recruitment.
Everyone agreed it would be beneficial to have someone from the School Board, or someone who is
well-connected to the schools, on the Human Rights Commission.
Work Plan: It was stated that Patrick Rogers is interested in Goal 3, Promoting Human Rights
Education, specifically regarding training and educational opportunities. Kristi Rudelius-Palmer and
Shep Harris will work on Goal 1, Human Rights Audit. Commissioners stated they would like to have
additional people to help with the work. Harris said short-term goals for the audit also need to be
implemented.
It was noted that for Goal 1, Kristen Siegesmund stated interest in Art Projects and City Center,
Cassandra Boddy in Goal 2, promoting Human Rights Education within the City and the broader
public, Herb Isbin in Honoring Youth; and Emily Wallace-Jackson in Partnerships; Paul Pyyokken in
Disabilities; Shep Harris in Goal 5, Promote Partnerships; and Julie Kirsch in Recruitment for the
Human Rights Commission and generally making St. Louis Park a welcoming place for newcomers.
Palmer suggested Human Rights Commissioners take a councilmember to lunch to discuss the work
plan and ask what councilmembers perceive the needs and priorities to be.
Martha McDonell will schedule a meeting for the Human Rights commissioners to meet with the City
Council at a study session.
Harris will update the work plan, version B. Harris thinks the essay contest should be expanded to
include the elementary schools. Harris agreed to contact 4H.
Rudelius-Palmer wrote the following two lists on the board.
1. Fall culture compass event
2. Human Rights testimonials hearings
3. Essay contest and honoring our youth/Youth Against Prejudice/4H
4. Human Rights awards
5. Continue Human Rights Education training
6. September 11th anniversary, Sun Sailor
1. Recruitment
2. Human Rights audit
3. Communication with City Council
4. Fall school/Welcome packet
5. General group
Julie Kirsch suggested confirming the commissioners’ assignments at the next meeting.
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 091702 - 4g - HRC Minutes July
Page 3 of 3
Kristi Rudelius-Palmer suggested contacting past commissioners for additional help.
Shep Harris suggested putting something in the Sun Sailor from the commission regarding the
September 11th anniversary.
Julie Kirsch inquired about the involvement of school children and human rights.
Rudelius-Palmer discussed human rights artwork and school participation. Kirsch will work on
developing the art poster contest. Rudelius-Palmer suggested distributing a human rights packet to the
schools and wait for their responses. Martha McDonell will call the league to get deadline dates.
Hate Crimes Response Plan: Shep Harris volunteered to return calls in response to individuals who
call to report hate crimes. Julie Kirsch will draft a letter to be sent to individuals who have had a hate
crime perpetrated. The letter will outline what the commission can do to help these individuals.
August Agenda
Members agreed to place the following items on the August agenda:
§ School contest/welcome packet
§ Work plan
§ Clerk’s report regarding by-laws—must Human Rights Commissioners be residents?
§ Review Julie Kirsch’s hate crime response letter
§ Home Depot
§ Review Sun Sailor article by Kristin Siegesmund
§ Recruitment
§ Set date to meet with the City Council
§ Human Rights audit report
Adjournment
With no further business, the Commission adjourned at 9:00 p.m.
Minutes prepared by: Respectfully submitted by:
Linda Samson Martha McDonell
Recording Secretary Staff Liaison
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 091702 - 4h - City Manager Exchange Program
Page 1 of 2
4h. Authorize Reimbursement for City Manager Exchange Program Expenses
Background
Staff is requesting reimbursement for travel expenses related to a City Manager exchange program held
last May in between Minnesota and the Skane Region of Sweden. A report summarizing that program
follows. The amount of reimbursement requested is $733.25.
Summary
In May 2002 nineteen city managers from Minnesota traveled to the Skane Region of Sweden to
participate in an international educational exchange with counterparts from cities in Sweden. The
purpose of the exchange was to learn about how local governments from different parts of the world go
about solving similar problems in very different ways.
The trip was one week long and costs were kept to an absolute minimum by having host families
sponsor the Minnesotan managers. Hence the cost was limited to airfare.
Discussion
The itinerary for the trip is attached and what is obvious is that the week was very full. We were
programmed from the minute we got off the plane on Saturday May 25th until we left on Saturday June
1st. Rather than repeating all the activities I will attempt to articulate some of the learnings from the
trip based on observations.
Skane is a newly formed region. While historic in nature, it has never been a formal region until about
a decade ago. In that respect it functions somewhat like the Metropolitan Council in Minnesota and
shares the distinction of being somewhat experimental as a regional government (there are only two in
all of Sweden). One of the clear successes of the regional form in Skane is that they appear to have
pulled together a very viable public transportation system. In a geographic area far larger than the
Twin Cities Metropolitan Region they have public transportation that serves every small hamlet as well
as the major cities. Transport includes dedicated commuter rail on heavy rail lines including
international connections to Denmark, light rail in densely developed urban areas and bus
transportation everywhere else – and it all coordinates. Handicapped access is phasing from
specialized handivan type vehicles to making all the main stream vehicles and bus / train stops
handicapped accessible. The farebox recovery is in the 60-70% range which I believe is roughly
double the rate in American cities and that is spread over an area with more land and fewer people than
the Twin Cities. One difference that is noticeable as well is the phasing out of diesel busses in lieu of
natural gas fueled vehicles. Perhaps the greatest difference is that there appears to be no stigma
associated with riding public transportation. It is relatively convenient and coordinates well. My one
trip on commuter rail was an absolute delight. Far faster than driving and very relaxed and
comfortable. Another factor favoring public transportation in Malmo, the region’s largest city, was a
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 091702 - 4h - City Manager Exchange Program
Page 2 of 2
30 minute drive to the city one morning followed by a 45 minute search for a parking space. Great
incentive to take public transportation.
Malmo is a city about the size of Minneapolis. They are doing some very interesting redevelopment
work from which we could all learn. The most interesting is a “new town” development about the size
of Park Commons with high density mixed use tied in with being environmentally sustainable. They
have designed and built a community in which they claim there is no adverse environmental impact.
Energy is produced by wind and solar power, transportation is all public (including shared electric cars)
and architecture maximizes recycled building materials and environmental conservation. The success
of the project has driven real estate prices to a point far beyond what the designers had expected. That
has raised some concerns about the public purpose of affordability.
The typical local government governance structure is very different from what we are used to. The
attached outline on Local Government in Sweden illustrates many of the differences. Foremost is the
extensive network of committees. With City Councils running from 50-100 members in size most
work is done in numerous committees that are not generally comprised of Council members.
Economic development tends to be looked at in a much broader perspective than just the City itself. In
a presentation for the Coordinator for International Affairs for the City of Malmo it became clear that
cities see themselves as an important catalyst in developing the relations necessary to promote
international business.
I was also able to look briefly at two systems in use for performance measurement that I was able to
share with the Center for Performance Measurement in the US that we participate in. These efforts, as
in the US, are relatively recent initiatives.
Public art is, of course, integrated into all aspects of public life. The images of landscaping,
architecture, sculpture and public music will continue to inspire me to challenge the limited
expectations we set for ourselves relative to public art.
It is impossible to summarize the learnings and the changes that occur with this type of educational
exchange. For me the real value of the experience is realized now and in the future as opportunities
arise and I am able to recognize the opportunity as such and bring a different perspective from this trip
to the table.
I thank the St. Louis Park City Council for your continuing support for my development and for
supporting me on this trip.
Charles W. Meyer, City Manager
Attachment: Itinerary and other Materials (Supplement)
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 091702 - 4i - Mutual Aid Agreement
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4i Motion to approve resolution authorizing amendment of the Southwest Mutual
Aid Agreement
Background:
With the consolidation of five communities, (Excelsior, Deephaven, Tonka Bay,
Greenwood, Shorewood) into a fire district, the City of Excelsior Fire Department has
officially changed its name to the Excelsior Fire District. This change requires each City
in the Association to approve by resolution a corrected listing of Association members
(Exhibit A).
Recommendation: Motion to adopt a resolution approving Exhibit A with the change of
the Excelsior Fire Department to the Excelsior Fire District with continued membership
in the Association
Attachments:
Resolution
Southwest Mutual Aid Association - Exhibit A (Supplement)
Prepared by: Luke Stemmer, Fire Chief
Approved by:Charles W. Meyer, City Manager
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 091702 - 4i - Mutual Aid Agreement
Page 2 of 2
CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK
RESOLUTION NO. 02-101
RESOLUTION AMENDING THE SOUTHWEST SUBURBAN MUTUAL AID
AGREEMENT TO CHANGE THE CITY OF EXCELSIOR FIRE DEPARTMENT TO
EXCELSIOR FIRE DISTRICT
WHERE AS, the city of St. Louis Park has previously approved and participated
in a mutual aid agreement between the southwest suburban governmental agencies to
provide cooperative use of fire personnel and equipment;
WHEREAS, the agencies participating in this agreement have been designated the
Southwest Mutual Aid Association;
WHEREAS, the existing agreement to approve by resolution a new Exhibit A to
add a new member to the agreement;
WHEREAS, the City of Excelsior Fire Department was a member but has
changed to the Excelsior Fire District and would like to continue to be a member of the
Association;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of St. Louis
Park, Minnesota, that:
The revised Exhibit A dated 7/25/2002, which includes the Excelsior Fire District is
hereby approved as the new official list of parties to the agreement establishing the
Southwest Mutual Aid Association.
The city clerk is directed to transmit a certified copy of this resolution to the secretary of
the Southwest Mutual Aid Association.
Reviewed for Administration Adopted by the City Council September 17, 2002
City Manager Mayor
Attest:
City Clerk
St. Louis Park City Council Agenda
Item: 091702 - 4j - August Financial Report
Page 1 of 1
4j. August Financial Report
To review August 2002 financial report
Recommended
Action:
Accept report
Background:
The financial report provides summary information related to the General Fund. Property taxes,
permits, charges for services, intergovernmental revenue, and other miscellaneous items support
the General Fund.
The August financial report indicates total year to date revenue of $4,279,660 and expenditures
of $10,873,333 for regular operations. It is not unusual for expenditures to exceed revenue at
this time of year. Property tax revenue comprises approximately 50% of the total General Fund
revenue budget. Property tax settlements are received twice a year, in July and November.
The financial report is separated into two sections. The first section shows all revenue,
expenditures, other income, and other expense. The second report shows budgeted versus actual
expenditures by department within the General Fund.
Recommendation:
Accept report for filing.
Attachments: Financial report
Prepared By: Jean D. McGann, Director of Finance
Approved By: Charles W. Meyer, City Manager