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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023/04/17 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - City Council - Regular AGENDA APRIL 17, 2023 The St. Louis Park City Council is meeting in person at St. Louis Park City Hall, 5005 Minnetonka Blvd. in the council chambers located on 3rd floor. Members of the public can attend the meeting in person, watch by web stream at bit.ly/watchslpcouncil, or watch on local cable (Comcast SD channel 17/HD channel 859). You can provide comment on agenda items for the regular EDA or city council meetings in person or by emailing your comments to info@stlouisparkmn.gov by noon the day of the meeting. Comments must be related to an item on the meeting agenda. Comments will be shared with the city council by providing copies for their review at the meeting. Public comment is generally not taken during study sessions. Recordings of city council meetings are available to watch on the city’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/user/slpcable, usually within 24 hours of the end of the council meeting or study session. 6:20 p.m. Economic Development Authority meeting 1. Call to order. a. Roll call. 2. Approve agenda. 3. Minutes. a. EDA meeting minutes of April 3, 2023. 4. Consent items. a. • Resolution authorizing the submission of a grant application to the Metropolitan Council Livable Communities program for pre-development activities for the Minnetonka Boulevard affordable townhome project. • Resolution authorizing the submission of a grant application to the Metropolitan Council Livable Communities Program for pre-development activities for the affordable commercial land trust project. b. • Resolution authorizing the submission of a grant application to the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) Contamination Clean-up Grant Program on behalf of Wooddale Station LLC. • Resolution authorizing the submission of a grant application to the Hennepin of the County Environmental Response Fund Program on behalf Wooddale Station LLC. • Resolution authorizing the submission of a grant application to the Metropolitan Council Tax Base Revitalization Account on behalf Wooddale Station LLC. 5. Public hearings – none. 6. Regular business – none. 7. Communications and announcements – none. 8. Adjournment. 6:30 p.m. City council meeting 1. Call to order a. Roll call. b. Pledge of Allegiance. 2. Approve agenda. Agenda - April 17, 2023: EDA/city council/closed session/special study session 3. Presentations – none. 4. Minutes. a. Special study session minutes of February 6, 2023. b. Study session minutes of February 13, 2023. c. Study session minutes of February 27, 2023. d. City council meeting minutes of March 20, 2023. 5. Consent items – business that generally does not require discussion or separate action. Consent items are acted upon by one motion. If a separate vote is desired by either a council member or a member of the public, that item may be moved to an appropriate section of the agenda under regular business. a. Authorize execution of a contract amendment to a professional services contract with Abdo Financial Solutions, LLC in the amount up to $453,000 for financial support services. b. Resolution appointing RJ Twiford and reappointing Erick Francis to the Basset Creek Watershed Management Commission (BCWMC) to serve terms expiring on January 31, 2026. 6. Public hearings – none. 7. Regular business. a. Resolution which designates Buckingham Trucking, LLC dba The Buckingham Companies (Buckingham) as the contractor for residential garbage and recycling collection services; and designate Allied Waste Services, LLC dba Republic Services (Republic) as the contractor for residential organics recycling collection and authorizes the execution of contracts with Buckingham and Republic for those services. 8. Communications, information, and announcements. a. Planning commission meeting minutes of January 18, 2023. b. Planning commission study session meeting minutes of January 18, 2023. 9. Adjournment. Immediately following city council meeting - Closed session Pursuant to M.S. 13D.05 Discussion item 1. 60 min. Acquisition of MnDOT excess land in the 2800 block of Toledo Avenue Recess (at approximately 8:04 pm) -- The city council will take a short recess so that those who observe Ramadan may break their fast. Immediately following closed session - Special study session Discussion item 1. 30 min. On-street semitruck parking regulations St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority and regular city council meetings are carried live on civic TV cable channel 17 and replays are frequent; check www.parktv.org for the schedule. The meetings are also streamed live on the internet at www.parktv.org, and saved for video on demand replays. If you need special accommodations or have questions about the meeting, please call 952.924.2505. Meeting: Economic development authority Meeting date: April 17, 2023 Minutes: 3a Unofficial minutes EDA meeting St. Louis Park, Minnesota April 3, 2023 1. Call to order President Mohamed called the meeting to order at 6:20 p.m. 1a. Roll call Commissioners present: President Nadia Mohamed, Tim Brausen, Sue Budd, Lynette Dumalag, Yolanda Farris, Margaret Rog, and Jake Spano Commissioners absent: Tim Brausen Staff present: City manager (Ms. Keller), Deputy City Manager (Ms. Walsh), Economic Development Manager (Mr. Hunt), Executive Director/Community Development Director (Ms. Barton), City Attorney (Mr. Mattick), Planning Manager/Deputy Community Development Director (Mr. Walther), Housing Supervisor (Ms. Olson), Communications and Technology Director (Ms. Smith) 2. Approval of agenda It was moved by Commissioner Rog, seconded by Commissioner Dumalag to approve the EDA agenda as presented. The motion passed 6-0 (Commission Brausen absent). 3. Approval of EDA minutes 3a. EDA meeting minutes of Feb. 6, 2023 3b. EDA meeting minutes of March 6, 2023 3c. EDA meeting minutes of March 20, 2023 It was moved by Commissioner Rog, seconded by Commissioner Dumalag, to approve the EDA meeting minutes of Feb. 6, 2023, March 6, 2023, and March 20, 2023, as presented. The motion passed 6-0 (Commissioner Brausen absent). 4. Approval of items on consent calendar 4a. Approval of EDA disbursement claims for the period of Feb. 25 through March 24, 2023. Economic development authority meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 3a) Page 2 Title: EDA meeting minutes of April 3, 2023 It was moved by Commissioner Spano, seconded by Commissioner Rog, to approve the agenda and items on the consent calendar as presented. The motion passed 6-0 (Commissioner Brausen absent). 5. Public hearings – none 6. Regular business – none 7. Communications and announcements – none 8. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 6:25 p.m. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Melissa Kennedy, secretary Nadia Mohamed, president Meeting: Economic development authority Meeting date: April 17, 2023 Consent agenda item: 4a Executive summary Title: Resolutions authorizing submittal of Metropolitan Council Pre-development grant applications - Wards 1 & 2 Recommended action: • Motion to Adopt Resolution authorizing the submission of a grant application to the Metropolitan Council Livable Communities program for pre-development activities for the Minnetonka Boulevard affordable townhome project. • Motion to Adopt Resolution authorizing the submission of a grant application to the Metropolitan Council Livable Communities Program for pre-development activities for the affordable commercial land trust project. Policy consideration: Does the Council support the submission of grant applications to the Metropolitan Council Livable Communities program to fund pre-development activities on city led projects for affordable housing and affordable commercial? Summary: The Metropolitan Council has made funding available for pre-development projects to help define project activities. This funding can be used for a variety of activities including financial studies, design workshops, architectural design services, and community engagement. For several years, the EDA has been working with Greater Metropolitan Housing Corporation (GMHC) to create affordable homeownership opportunities on the EDA properties located at 5639, 5643, 5647 and 5707 Minnetonka Boulevard. GMHC would utilize the pre-development funds to develop site and architectural design plans for affordable owner-occupied townhomes on this site. In Sept. 2022, the EDA purchased the commercial building at 4300 W 36 1/2 St with the intent of repurposing it into multiple affordable commercial spaces. Staff has been working with the Partnership in Property Commercial Land Trust (PIPCLT) on a land trust arrangement to provide these spaces as long term affordable commercial ownership opportunities. PIPCLT would utilize pre-development grant funds to develop concept architectural plans and determine the legal structure for the project. Applications are due Apr. 21, 2023 and require a resolution from the governing body of the city where the project site is located indicating support of the application. Resolutions for each application are attached. Staff will provide an update to the EDA on each project in the coming months. Financial or budget considerations: The EDA is the designated applicant for each grant but has no financial obligations other than to serve as the conduit for the grant funds. No funds are being requested from the EDA in connection with these grant applications. Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a broad range of housing and neighborhood oriented development. Supporting documents: resolutions Prepared by: Julie Grove, community and economic development analyst Reviewed by: Greg Hunt, economic development manager Karen Barton, community development director, EDA executive director Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager Economic development authority meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 4a) Page 2 Title: Resolutions authorizing submittal of Metropolitan Council Pre-development grant applications - Wards 1 & 2 EDA Resolution No. 23-____ Resolution authorizing application for the Metropolitan Council Pre-Development Grant on behalf of the Minnetonka Boulevard Affordable Townhome Project Whereas, the City of St. Louis Park is a participant in the Livable Communities Act's Housing Incentives Program for 2023 as determined by the Metropolitan Council, and is therefore eligible to make application for funds under the LCA Livable Communities Act Programs; and Whereas, the St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority (Authority) has identified an affordable housing project within the city that meets the Pre-development grant's purposes and criteria and are consistent with and promote the purposes of the Metropolitan Livable Communities Act and the policies of the Metropolitan Council’s adopted metropolitan development guide; and Whereas, the Authority has the institutional, managerial and financial capability to ensure adequate project administration; and Whereas, the Authority certifies that it will comply with all applicable laws and regulations as stated in the contract agreements; and Whereas,, the Authority acknowledges LCA grants are intended to fund programs that share the goals of creating more housing choice, supporting living wage jobs, and achieving more equitable development outcomes; and Whereas, the Authority agrees to act as legal sponsor for the project contained in the Pre-Development grant application submitted on April 21, 2023; Now, therefore, be it resolved that the President and Executive Director are hereby authorized to apply to the Metropolitan Council for a Pre-development grant on behalf of the Authority and to execute such agreements as are necessary to implement the project on behalf of the applicant. Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the Economic Development Authority April 17, 2023 Karen Barton, executive director Nadia Mohamed, president Attest: Melissa Kennedy, secretary Economic development authority meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 4a) Page 3 Title: Resolutions authorizing submittal of Metropolitan Council Pre-development grant applications - Wards 1 & 2 EDA Resolution No. 23-____ Resolution authorizing application for the Metropolitan Council Pre-Development Grant on behalf of the Affordable Commercial Landtrust Project Whereas, the City of St. Louis Park is a participant in the Livable Communities Act's Housing Incentives Program for 2023 as determined by the Metropolitan Council, and is therefore eligible to make application for funds under the LCA Livable Communities Act Programs; and Whereas, the St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority (Authority) has identified an affordable commercial project within the city that meets the Pre-development grant's purposes and criteria and are consistent with and promote the purposes of the Metropolitan Livable Communities Act and the policies of the Metropolitan Council’s adopted metropolitan development guide; and Whereas, the Authority has the institutional, managerial and financial capability to ensure adequate project administration; and Whereas, the Authority certifies that it will comply with all applicable laws and regulations as stated in the contract agreements; and Whereas,, the Authority acknowledges LCA grants are intended to fund programs that share the goals of creating more housing choice, supporting living wage jobs, and achieving more equitable development outcomes; and Whereas, the Authority agrees to act as legal sponsor for the project contained in the Pre-Development grant application submitted on April 21, 2023; Now, therefore, be it resolved that the President and Executive Director are hereby authorized to apply to the Metropolitan Council for a Pre-development grant on behalf of the Authority and to execute such agreements as are necessary to implement the project on behalf of the applicant. Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the Economic Development Authority April 17, 2023 Karen Barton, executive director Nadia Mohamed, president Attest: Melissa Kennedy, secretary Meeting: Economic development authority Meeting date: April 17, 2023 Consent agenda item: 4b Executive summary Title: Clean up grant applications on behalf of Wooddale Station LLC – Ward 2 Recommended action: • Motion to adopt EDA Resolution authorizing the submission of a grant application to the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) Contamination Clean-up Grant Program on behalf of Wooddale Station LLC. • Motion to adopt EDA Resolution authorizing the submission of a grant application to the Hennepin of the County Environmental Response Fund Program on behalf Wooddale Station LLC. • Motion to adopt EDA Resolution authorizing the submission of a grant application to the Metropolitan Council Tax Base Revitalization Account on behalf Wooddale Station LLC. Policy consideration: Does the EDA support submitting clean up grant applications on behalf of Wooddale Station LLC (Saturday Properties) to assist in environmental cleanup of the Wooddale Station redevelopment site? Summary: In Feb. 2021, the EDA entered into a Preliminary Development Agreement with Wooddale Station LLC (Saturday Properties and “Developer”) to develop a mixed-use, mixed- income, transit-oriented development at the Southwest Light Rail Transit (SWLRT) Wooddale Avenue Station redevelopment site. Planning applications were approved Aug. 2022. Staff is currently working with the Developer on finalizing business terms for the project’s redevelopment contract. In spring 2022, the EDA was awarded a total of approximately $2 million in clean up grants from Hennepin County, Metropolitan Council and DEED on behalf of this project. These grants were awarded for the cleanup of soil contamination, soil vapor and groundwater contamination on the redevelopment site. There have been substantial cost increases related to site clean-up and hauling activities over the last year. Therefore, Saturday Properties has requested the EDA apply for additional grants on its behalf to fill the gap. Clean-up grant applications are due May 1, 2023. Each grant requires a resolution from the governing body of the city where the project site is located indicating that it supports the application. An authorizing resolution for each application is attached. Financial or budget considerations: The EDA is the designated applicant for each grant but has no financial obligations other than to serve as the conduit for the grant funds. No funds are being requested from the EDA in connection with these grant applications. Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a broad range of housing and neighborhood oriented development. Supporting documents: Site plan Resolutions Prepared by: Julie Grove, community and economic development analyst Reviewed by: Greg Hunt, economic development manager Karen Barton, community development director, EDA executive director Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager Economic development authority meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 4b) Page 2 Title: Clean up grant applications on behalf of Wooddale Station LLC – Ward 2 Proposed Wooddale Station Site Plan Economic development authority meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 4b) Page 3 Title: Clean up grant applications on behalf of Wooddale Station LLC – Ward 2 EDA Resolution No. 23-____ Resolution approving a grant application to the Department of Employment and Economic Development on behalf of the Wooddale Station Redevelopment Whereas, the St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority (Authority) has agreed to act as the legal sponsor for the Project referred to as the Wooddale Station contained in the Contamination Cleanup Grant application submitted to the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) on or before May 1, 2023; and Whereas, that the city of St. Louis Park is located within the seven-county metropolitan area defined in section 473.121, subdivision 2, and is participating in the local housing incentives program under section 473.254. Whereas, the Authority has the legal authority to apply for financial assistance, and the institutional, managerial, and financial capability to ensure adequate project administration; and Whereas, the sources and amounts of the local match identified in the application are committed to the project identified and the advance of such funds is subject to the final approval of the Authority; and Whereas, the Authority has not violated any Federal, State or local laws pertaining to fraud, bribery, graft, kickbacks, collusion, conflict of interest or other unlawful or corrupt practice; and Whereas, upon approval of its application by the state, the Authority may enter into an agreement with the State of Minnesota for the above referenced Project, and that the Authority certifies that it will comply with all applicable laws and regulation as stated in all contract agreements; Now, therefore, be it resolved that the Authority has approved the Contamination Cleanup grant application submitted to the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) on May 1, 2023 for Wooddale Station. It is further resolved that the President and Executive Director are hereby authorized to apply to the Department of Employment and Economic Development for funding of this project on behalf of the Authority and execute such agreements as are necessary to implement the Project on behalf of the applicant. I certify that the above resolution was adopted by the St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority on, May 1, 2023. Economic development authority meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 4b) Page 4 Title: Clean up grant applications on behalf of Wooddale Station LLC – Ward 2 Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the Economic Development Authority April 17, 2023 Karen Barton, executive director Nadia Mohamed, president Attest: Melissa Kennedy, secretary Economic development authority meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 4b) Page 5 Title: Clean up grant applications on behalf of Wooddale Station LLC – Ward 2 EDA Resolution No. 23-____ Resolution authorizing application for the Metropolitan Council Tax Base Revitalization Account on behalf of the Wooddale Station Redevelopment Whereas, the City of St. Louis Park is a participant in the Livable Communities Act's Housing Incentives Program for 2023 as determined by the Metropolitan Council, and is therefore eligible to make application for funds under the Tax Base Revitalization Account; and Whereas, the St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority (Authority) has identified a contamination clean-up project within the city that meets the Tax Base Revitalization account's purposes and criteria and are consistent with and promote the purposes of the Metropolitan Livable Communities Act and the policies of the Metropolitan Council’s adopted metropolitan development guide; and Whereas, the Authority has the institutional, managerial and financial capability to ensure adequate project administration; and Whereas, the Authority certifies that it will comply with all applicable laws and regulations as stated in the contract agreements; and Whereas,, the Authority finds that the required contamination cleanup will not occur through private or other public investment within the reasonably foreseeable future without Tax Base Revitalization Account grant funding; and Whereas, the Authority agrees to act as legal sponsor for the project contained in the Tax Base Revitalization Account grant application submitted on May 1, 2023; Now, therefore, be it resolved that the President and Executive Director are hereby authorized to apply to the Metropolitan Council for a Tax Base Revitalization Account grant on behalf of the Authority and to execute such agreements as are necessary to implement the project on behalf of the applicant. Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the Economic Development Authority April 17, 2023 Nadia Mohamed, president Karen Barton, executive director Attest: Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Economic development authority meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 4b) Page 6 Title: Clean up grant applications on behalf of Wooddale Station LLC – Ward 2 EDA Resolution No. 23-____ Resolution authorizing application for a grant from Hennepin County’s Environmental Response Fund On behalf of Wooddale Station Redevelopment Whereas, the St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority is eligible to make application for grant funds from Hennepin County’s Environmental Response Fund; and Whereas, the grant funds will be used for environmental clean-up of Wooddale Station located 5950 W 36th St & 5802 36th St in the City of St. Louis Park; and Whereas, the State Statute which created the Environmental Response Fund requires approval by the governing body of the EDA for submission of a grant request to the Hennepin County Environmental Response Fund; and Whereas, the St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority has the institutional, managerial and financial capability to ensure adequate project administration for any grant funds received; and Whereas, the St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority certifies that it will comply with all applicable laws and regulations as stated in the contract agreements; and Whereas, the St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority agrees to act as legal sponsor for the project contained in the Environmental Response Fund grant application to be submitted on or before May 1, 2023; Now, therefore, be it resolved that the St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority supports Wooddale Station redevelopment, for which an Environmental Response Fund grant application is being submitted for program eligible activities, and that the President and Executive Director are hereby authorized to apply to Hennepin County for an Environmental Response Fund grant on behalf of the St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority on or before May 1, 2023 and execute such agreements as are necessary to implement the project on behalf of the applicant. Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the Economic Development Authority April 17, 2023 Nadia Mohamed, president Karen Barton, executive director Attest: Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Meeting: City council Meeting date: April 17, 2023 Minutes: 4a Unofficial minutes City council study session St. Louis Park, Minnesota Feb. 6, 2023 The meeting convened at 8:10 p.m. Councilmembers present: Mayor Jake Spano, Tim Brausen, Sue Budd, Lynette Dumalag, Nadia Mohamed, and Margaret Rog Councilmembers absent: none Staff present: City Manager (Ms. Keller), Deputy City Manager (Ms. Walsh), Engineering Director (Ms. Heiser), Finance Director (Ms. Schmitt), Building and Energy Director (Mr. Hoffman), Director of Community Development (Ms. Barton), Race, Equity, and Inclusion Director (Ms. Guess) Communications and Technology Director (Ms. Smith). Guests: none. 1.Race, Equity, and inclusion impact Analysis Tool Ms. Guess presented the report. She explained the Racial Equity Impact Analysis Tool that the city will be implementing. Mayor Spano asked about the use of the word colorblindness on the continuum. Councilmember Dumalag noted the assumption that all bodies of culture are a monolith, and that’s where the dominant culture gets in trouble and there is additional work to do here. Councilmember Mohamed noted colorblindness denies the racial experiences of people and the disparities and disproportionalities. Ms. Guess added that data is always segregated by race and gender to be more intentional on getting groups what they need – it’s equitable, not equity. Ms. Guess facilitated an exercise with the racial equity impact analysis tool for the council to consider. She asked the council to consider who in the community should be a part of the discussion and decision-making process. The council participated in the exercise. Councilmember Brausen said residents that are affected need to be involved in the discussion. Councilmember Dumalag added the city has had racial covenants in the past, and the city defers to what the neighborhood wants, but who do we say we are because the city is not diverse. City council meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 4a) Page 2 Title: Special study session minutes of Feb. 6, 2023 Councilmember Rog noted in the Elmwood neighborhood we did not give the community what they wanted, and there are more examples of this where we are going counter to what residents want. She added there is more to consider about the property. Councilmember Rog added related to engagement discussions, council is elected to make decisions and then informs the community what has been decided because it is not always easy to bring the community in for every decision. Ms. Guess stated this tool can help the council decide when to do community engagement and for what decisions. Ms. Keller stated using good judgement comes into play also, and what risks are involved in a decision, and then when should community engagement happen. Mayor Spano stated we live in a republic, and we can’t always engage the community in all decisions. Councilmember Brausen noted it might be hard for him to get feedback as a white male. Ms. Guess stated her experience has been going to the community, to where they are, to get authentic engagement and gather the feedback needed. Councilmember Mohamed noted pausing to reflect and doing the leg work to begin with helps with engagement and unintended consequences. Ms. Guess added unintended consequences can happen when there is non-pausing and then there can be equity ramifications. Councilmember Rog stated pausing can cause cost issues also, and then possible unintended consequences, which can be more difficult with community resources. Councilmember Dumalag stated there is a difference between pause and delay though, and pausing to be deliberative and ask questions can help make decisions. The council reflected on where they are on the compass, related to this discussion. Councilmember Mohamed stated she is in her emotional space regarding these conversations. Ms. Guess stated for her, it depends on who is in the room, so she may pause more depending on her audience. Councilmember Brausen stated he is in thinking mode. Councilmember Budd stated she is in acting mode. Councilmember Dumalag is in thinking mode, especially with this very formal structure, and with rules and in other business structures. City council meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 4a) Page 3 Title: Special study session minutes of Feb. 6, 2023 Councilmember Rog stated she is in thinking mode and noted it’s because of her being white and because of her personality. Ms. Keller stated she is in the thinking and feeling mode, and looking at how to support and how this is being received. Mayor Spano stated he is in thinking space, and as he reflects on not missing anything and making a fully informed decision. He added he has anxiety around pausing, and once the decision is made, he prefers to move forward, and reflection can happen afterwards. Mayor Spano stated he is not certain this is the correct tool to use, but he is happy to be discussing it. He asked if staff would review a worksheet on these discussions, adding he will want to try this a few times. Ms. Keller stated this would be part of the discussions and added into council work plans. Councilmember Rog asked what the tool will look like in a meeting. Ms. Guess said there are suggestions, but they have not been defined yet. She added one of the council members or a staff member could facilitate the discussion during a study session. Councilmember Rog asked how the council will decide which discussions to have, and on which topics. She also asked if the tool was used for the roundabout project. Ms. Keller stated staff has been using these questions over the last few months, but not for the years involved in the analysis. She added when to use the full tool, or when to include it in a discussion will be reviewed depending on the project. Councilmember Rog asked about redundancy or repetition and when this might become an issue if staff has already gone through the exercise. Ms. Guess stated it’s possible the discussion and analysis could be done by staff, so council could use this as a reflection on what was heard or seen. Ms. Keller noted the analysis tool will be used in the upcoming council retreat March 9-10. The meeting was adjourned at 9:20 p.m. Written Reports - none ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Jake Spano, mayor Meeting: City council Meeting date: April 17, 2023 Minutes: 4b Unofficial minutes City council study session St. Louis Park, Minnesota Feb. 13, 2023 The meeting convened at 6:30 p.m. Councilmembers present: Mayor Jake Spano, Tim Brausen, Sue Budd, Lynette Dumalag, Nadia Mohamed, and Margaret Rog Councilmembers absent: none Staff present: City Manager (Ms. Keller), Fire Chief Koering, Deputy City Manager (Ms. Walsh), Engineering Director (Ms. Heiser), Project Engineer (Mr. Sullivan), Community Development Director (Ms. Barton), Race, Equity, and Inclusion Director (Ms. Guess), Communications and Technology Director (Ms. Smith), Deputy Fire Chief Wolff, Assistant Chief Anderson Guests: Paul Danicic, Park Nicollet Foundation; Chief Medical Director (Dr. Wilcox) 1. REI and fire department – community health Chief Koering, along with fire department staff, presented the report on the proposed community health project for the city. Mr. Danicic explained the role of Park Nicollet and a grant recently given to the fire department from the Park Nicollet Foundation. Chief Koering noted the Park Nicollet Foundation will fund a full-time care coordinator for the fire department, for three years. Mayor Spano stated there has been interest regionally in this program. He also thanked the Park Nicollet Foundation for their support for the city and community and appreciated their generosity over the years. Councilmember Mohamed noted she met one of the students in the CNA program. She stated many communities have multi-generational families living together and sometimes there is no support system for these families with aged relatives. She asked if the city is doing anything around this issue. Chief Koering stated they do sometimes make recommendations about alternative care but added they have also learned about this issue. He noted care coordination will help the department do more specific work related to this, community health workers will assist on this issue, as well as look like the community and population they are serving. He added the department has had difficulty connecting in the past with faith leaders of some of these communities, so they are working on this as well. Councilmember Mohamed asked if this will be a paid internship. Fire Chief Koering said yes, it will. Ms. Keller added community health workers will understand and will help translate for the fire department. City council meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 4b) Page 2 Title: Study session meeting minutes of Feb. 13, 2023 Councilmember Rog asked if there is information on the city website about this program and the podcast, as well as the relationship with Park Nicollet. Chief Koering stated yes this will be done soon, but noted the program is still being built and they wanted to discuss it with the council first. Councilmember Rog commented on the sign outside the police station, noting it did not have any contact information on it. Councilmember Rog mentioned “most trusted resource” and asked how we know. Chief Koering stated there have been studies on this and noted one by the New York Times that looked at who people trusted the most. Next to their clergy, the fire department is who they trusted the most. He stated people share things with firefighters that they won’t share with others, and the firefighters get the whole story. Then they can take that information to update the person’s care team. Councilmember Rog noted many do not call 911 in an emergency. Chief Koering stated people do call 911 and many times for non-emergency events but noted that some do not call because it can lead back to law enforcement. He explained if they can connect people to the appropriate resource, they do not call 911, adding in the future he would like to work on having another number to call. Councilmember Rog asked if we assist with health insurance or healthcare homes, and how does the city help close that gap. Chief Koering stated the city does not provide health insurance or recommend any type of insurance. He noted that United Health Group did present at Perspectives, and they also recommend physicians, as well as the Creekside Clinic. He explained the care coordinator will reach out to get folks to help with this. Councilmember Rog asked whether the Care Resource Connection and Community Health Alliance have a board of directors. Chief Koering stated this is a collaboration and the fire department works on getting resources they provide out to the community. Councilmember Rog asked if they would present at the League of Minnesota Cities (LMC) conference in November. Chief Koering stated they would like to do that. Councilmember Rog stated now is the time to develop a community health commission for the city. Councilmember Dumalag asked about the funding, who is providing what, and if it is administrated directly to the city. Chief Koering explained the Park Nicollet grant came directly to the city in the fire department. He added the care coordinator applies for grants and the funds are allocated however the grant is written and it is divided up with the Alliance. Ms. Keller added the care coordinator will be a city employee and staff will work on what this position will look like over the next 3 years. Chief Koering stated Park Nicollet has been very open about what the expectations are for the grant for the care coordinator City council meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 4b) Page 3 Title: Study session meeting minutes of Feb. 13, 2023 and much of the data will be driven by Park Nicollet. He added the non-profit will work with the fire department on reporting for their 501c3. Councilmember Dumalag asked if there are any concerns with HIPPA. Fire Chief Koering stated they have a community health system that is HL7 compliant, and it conforms to the necessary regulations, but is outside the walls of the healthcare system. Dr. Wilcox stated the data is looked at collectively versus by patient. Councilmember Dumalag asked if calls are tracked, is the data reconciled as to how the call was taken. Chief Koering stated data is looked at from the time the person is met and follow-up. Councilmember Brausen thanked everyone for their work and stated he is supportive of this. He asked how Care Resource Connect makes money and if the city pays a fee to them. Chief Koering stated the care coordinator is paid a stipend by the fire department budget. Councilmember Budd asked about the 501c3 and if they will have more access to data. Chief Koering stated they are considered a provider and the care coordinator has access to the Epic medical chart system at Park Nicollet and other health care systems, which helps with care integration. Councilmember Budd asked if the city care coordinator will have that same access. Chief Koering stated yes, with access to Epic as well. Councilmember Budd asked about skilled nursing facilities, if that is different than a senior living facility, and if this initiative will have any involvement in senior living. Chief Koering stated skilled nursing is different than senior living and noted there are similar relationships with senior living depending on whether they are independent or assisted living programs. Councilmember Budd stated she is impressed with the idea of “most trusted” and the cross integration. She asked what Care Resource Connections geographic scope is. Chief Koering stated it covers a variety of healthcare through fire departments and is a grass roots program based on care coordination that happens outside the walls of healthcare. Mayor Spano asked what’s preventing other communities from doing this work. Chief Koering stated he has met with many others on this, adding it’s a very complex topic and where it fits in. He stated many fire chiefs are ready to do it, but they are watching St. Louis Park first. Mayor Spano asked if Allina is doing this or others. He also asked what the healthcare foundations and healthcare institutions can do to promote community health. Ms. Danicic stated the Methodist Hospital president and director were both supportive of the Park Nicollet Foundation doing this. Dr. Wilcox stated programs are dependent on which healthcare insurance plan is available and sustainability. Dr. Wilcox added healthcare continues to be a fee for service concept in this country, so this type of community program where prevention of care is in place, is not considered. City council meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 4b) Page 4 Title: Study session meeting minutes of Feb. 13, 2023 He added until fee for service in healthcare declines and reimbursement is based on quality of care and keeping patients healthy in and out of hospitals and clinics, this will continue in the short- and long-term. He stated we are faced with a healthcare crisis in this country as the numbers of healthcare workers continues to decline, as does access in rural and city settings. He stated we need to find ways to innovatively develop healthcare and EMS has become very important in this work, noting this program is exemplary in using EMS as resources and part of the medical team. Councilmember Rog stated the National League of Cities is interested in this work and this could be a great place for the fire department to present. She asked how this community program, and the Cadet Program may interact as areas of programming. Deputy Chief Wolff stated the Pathway students will have medical and fire training and they would gain experience on runs. He noted this might be more of a community health opportunity, so there is potential for cross training and preparing cadets for careers as firefighter. Councilmember Rog thanked the Park Nicollet Foundation and stated she wants to make sure data is collected by race. Deputy Chief Wolff noted this will be the case and it is already one of the department’s data markers. 2. 2023 Alley Reconstruction (4023-1500) – project update Mr. Sullivan presented the report. Councilmember Rog referenced alley D and asked if the rental property is not coming through. Ms. Heiser stated it was a rental, but the person lives there now. She added the owner wants to work with the city, but they haven’t been able to connect with the owner. Councilmember Rog asked if there were also railroad permits needed for alley D. Mr. Sullivan stated whenever the city works adjacent to the railroad there is a notification process, and the permit assures safety of railroad operations. He added until all these easements are secured, they will not move forward. Councilmember Rog asked how this project will be communicated if it moves forward. Mr. Sullivan stated communications would be sent out, depending on when the project will be completed. Councilmember Rog asked if these projects could be pushed to 2026 when the pavement management project begins. Ms. Heiser stated anything is possible, and staff will rely on bids. She added staff will review all the alleys left, budget, and race equity will be reviewed. Councilmember Rog asked if this information will be on the website. Mr. Sullivan stated yes and additional details on the projects will go out in an email. Councilmember Rog stated she is supportive of the strategy and implementing it. Councilmember Brausen asked if alley D is on a dead end. Mr. Sullivan stated yes and only serves five parcels from 28th Street to the south. Ms. Heiser explained the history of this City council meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 4b) Page 5 Title: Study session meeting minutes of Feb. 13, 2023 alley, noting it was on private property and the resident was told the city would not maintain it any longer. She added the area has been surveyed and the process is almost completed. Councilmember Brausen stated he is supportive of removing alley A as it just services one resident, adding he is sure more will be discussed with the resident. Mayor Spano stated he has no problem pulling these alleys off, adding he is interested in where this will go with the resident. Councilmember Rog added on alley D, she struggles with the expense of alley reconstruction. She stated there were issues with driving on private property, so there are reasons to make it a public access area. Ms. Heiser stated these items will be on the consent agenda in the next meeting for approval. Communications/meeting check-in (verbal) Ms. Keller noted Monday is President’s Day and a holiday so city offices will be closed. She stated the council will meet on Tuesday and swear in the new council member. Mayor Spano noted cloth wash rags are not to be flushed down toilets, as this caused the city to come out and work on the water main in his neighborhood. Written Reports: 3. Managing change in residential areas update 4. 2022 fourth quarter investment report The meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Jake Spano, mayor Meeting: City council Meeting date: April 17, 2023 Minutes: 4c Unofficial minutes City council study session St. Louis Park, Minnesota Feb. 27, 2023 The meeting convened at 6:30 p.m. Councilmembers present: Mayor Jake Spano, Tim Brausen, Sue Budd, Yolanda Farris, Nadia Mohamed and Margaret Rog Councilmembers absent: Lynette Dumalag Staff present: Deputy City Manager (Ms. Walsh), Engineering Director (Ms. Heiser), Building and Energy Director (Mr. Hoffman), Director of Community Development (Ms. Barton), Race, Equity, and Inclusion Director (Ms. Guess) Communications and Technology Director (Ms. Smith), Sustainability Manager (Ms. Ziring), City Assessor (Mr. Bultema), Assessment technician (Ms. Carr), Solid Waste Manager (Ms. Fisher) Guests: None. 1. Just Deeds program update Mr. Bultema presented the report. Councilmember Budd asked if a house does not show a covenant on the Just Deeds map, does it mean this covenant does not exist on the title. Mr. Bultema stated no, adding it would require a review by an attorney or title firm to ensure there is nothing on the title. Councilmember Budd asked if it would show up on the land versus the home. Mr. Bultema stated it is the title of the entire property including the land and home. Mayor Spano asked if most of these show up on residential properties. Mr. Bultema stated yes, mostly on residential properties. Councilmember Rog asked about what type of education goes along with this for residents. Mr. Bultema stated historically we have tried to acknowledge the truth of history and from there you can take the next step to a more positive place. He deferred to Ms. Guess on the education program. Ms. Guess added REI staff do want to do outward engagement and education through open houses and resource fairs as well as tabling and education to bring awareness to the community. Councilmember Rog asked about dates when these no longer showed up on titles. Mr. Bultema stated he would send a synopsis of dates to the council. He noted the 1960’s as City council meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 4c) Page 2 Title: Study session meeting minutes of Feb. 27, 2023 when most racial covenants were actively prohibited even though the law was passed in 1953. Councilmember Rog asked what area of St. Louis Park is most interested in pursuing knowing if racial covenants exist on their properties. Mr. Bultema noted in late 2021 the Elmwood neighborhood showed to have the most interested parties following an educational outreach session at that time. Councilmember Rog stated she has updated her residents about racial covenants and added the city could provide more information and links for residents to investigate. Mr. Bultema added the city will be working with real estate agents on this as well. Ms. Guess added staff will come back to the council in September on this issue with real estate industry people in attendance. Mr. Bultema stated he will send a link to the council related to the definitive map with all properties in the city that still have racial covenants, for their review. 2. Climate Equity Map presentation Ms. Ziring presented the report. Councilmember Brausen asked if the map is online yet. Ms. Ziring stated not yet, but it will soon be available on the city website. Councilmember Budd asked about the 40% clause. Ms. Ziring stated that the Biden Administration’s Justice 40 requirement means 40% of federal investments will be directed toward disadvantaged communities, so staff is working toward setting up projects according to this requirement. Councilmember Budd asked about the heat map and how it works. Ms. Ziring presented the map and the layers including heat and age data and census tracks. Councilmember Mohamed asked about the three neighborhoods with higher scores. Ms. Ziring stated that areas with higher scores are offered more energy efficiency incentives to help reach equity goals. Councilmember Rog added she is excited about seeing this data gathered and used city wide. She asked about census tracks and neighborhoods and noted they are not the same. Ms. Ziring stated she is using the neighborhood names along with the census track information as approximations. Councilmember Rog noted that tree sale discounts were offered in the Birchwood area. She stated Birchwood is very socio-economically diverse, and asked how decisions are made about giving financial assistance. Ms. Ziring stated it’s difficult to parse out assistance for this type of program based on individual income levels, so staff looks at the greater good and benefiting the community with additional trees. City council meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 4c) Page 3 Title: Study session meeting minutes of Feb. 27, 2023 Councilmember Budd asked how many cities are doing this work. Ms. Ziring stated not many, but there are a few, and added the Met Council has interest in this work as well. She added she likes this tool because the data is specific to St. Louis Park and includes utility program participation data for the city. 3. Solid waste collection proposals, 2023-2028 Ms. Fisher presented the report. She noted information on proposals and contracts and setting rates will be discussed later with the council. She noted the two policy questions: 1) Does the council support staff recommendations regarding entering contracts with the haulers included in Option A? 2) Does the council support rejecting yard waste proposals and issuing a new request for proposals (RFP) for yard waste services only? Councilmember Brausen stated he is supportive of option A and hopefully residents will understand these changes. He added he would like to see the RFP cut back, especially when much of the yard waste can be used all year long on properties. He added he would like to see removing yard waste charged to residents. Councilmember Rog agreed and noted leaves left on yards can also be helpful to lawns. She asked about services for multi-family housing units. Ms. Fisher stated ordinance ensures that residents at multi-family buildings have access to recycling collection but does not require organics collection. She added the city provides organics drop off collection sites. Councilmember Rog stated she is in support of option A. She asked if applicants are aware they are vying for only one contract. Ms. Fisher stated staff do meet with the applicants and they are aware they can provide RFPs for one or all four types of contracts. Ms. Fisher added vendors do let staff know what they are able to provide service for. Councilmember Rog asked if the contracts go through 2028, will there be significant changes prior to 2030. Ms. Fisher stated she does not see any large changes, noting that the organics program is in place and there is always more focus and education that can be done on waste reduction. Councilmember Mohamed stated she supports option A and noted the yard waste removal is not essential for city services. Councilmember Budd asked if this analysis was based on cost and if any other factors were looked at. Ms. Fisher stated cost is the easiest metric to share and compare, but also questions are asked about customer service and references as well. One proposer noted they will pilot electric collection vehicles as well. City council meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 4c) Page 4 Title: Study session meeting minutes of Feb. 27, 2023 Councilmember Farris stated she supports option A and deferring the yard waste proposal. Mayor Spano will support option A and deferring the yard waste proposal as well. He added this has been a difficult year for trash and recycle haulers and the city staff going out to fill the gaps is very appreciated. He asked about other cities and if there are similarities in what staff see in costs and proposals. Ms. Fisher stated St. Louis Park is unique related to other suburbs a little farther out, and 1/3 of our residents require alley collection. She stated communities that have high alley collection are having trouble finding collectors and fewer proposals coming in, as well as increases in rates. She noted this is similar to what St. Louis Park has been seeing as well. It was the consensus of the council to approve option A and defer on the yard waste collection until staff comes back with more information. Communications/meeting check-in (verbal) The Children’s First Breakfast is Thurs., March 2 and all are welcome to attend. Mayor Spano thanked staff for their work on the snow removal last week. The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 p.m. Written Reports 4. MnDOT excel land updates 5. Update on Sherman Associates’ proposed Beltline Station Redevelopment ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Jake Spano, mayor Meeting: City council Meeting date: April 17, 2023 Minutes: 4d Unofficial minutes City council meeting St. Louis Park, Minnesota March 20, 2023 1. Call to order Mayor Spano called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. 1a. Pledge of allegiance 1b. Roll call Councilmembers present: Mayor Jake Spano, Tim Brausen, Sue Budd, Lynette Dumalag, Yoland Farris, Nadia Mohamed, and Margaret Rog Councilmembers absent: none Staff present: City Manager (Ms. Keller), City Attorney (Mr. Mattick), Deputy City Manager (Ms. Walsh), Director of Community Development (Ms. Barton), Communications and Technology Director (Ms. Smith), Operations Superintendent (Mr. Stevens), Public Works Director (Mr. Hall) Guests: Becky Bakken, Discover St. Louis Park 2. Approve agenda The agenda was approved, as presented, by general consensus. 3. Presentations 3a. Discover St. Louis Park Update Becky Bakken from Discover St. Louis Park presented the report. Councilmember Dumalag noted Meet Minneapolis sells convention space. She asked how much of that business comes into St. Louis Park. Ms. Bakken stated in 2022, very little came into the city, adding that it has been much higher, during large events like the Super Bowl. She added overflow is typically a natural thing but that it did not exist in 2022. Councilmember Dumalag asked where visitors are coming from. Ms. Bakken stated St. Louis Park is an attractive location when visiting from northern or southern Minnesota, and for folks who may not want to stay in downtown Minneapolis. She added St. Louis Park is also an attraction for those visiting for conferences and would be stronger if that market were back to where it had been prior to 2020, noting companies are not sending their employees to conferences as much now, due to costs and inflation. She noted however St. Louis Park does remain a regional destination. City council meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 4d) Page 2 Title: City council meeting minutes of March 20, 2023 Councilmember Dumalag asked within the 9 regional hotels that are reviewed, how many rooms does that encompass. Ms. Bakken stated 1,200. Councilmember Rog asked about non-profit partnerships over the past year. Ms. Bakken stated Discover St. Louis Park was very involved with STEP this year and with the Holiday Train event. She also noted their involvement with Children First and Friends of the Arts. She noted they also received a community partner of the year award from STEP this year. Councilmember Rog noted a walking tour is still of interest. She asked why the August and September and fall numbers were so high last year. Ms. Bakken stated it would be the Thai Festival that was held in September, and also several associations met at the end of the year, and St. Louis Park was a popular destination this past year. Councilmember Mohamed stated it was interesting to see them use influencers to get through to groups. She added the use of TikTok, especially for the younger generation, is helpful and she encouraged more of this with more experiential platforms. Councilmember Brausen added it was good to see good news here, especially in light of the pandemic. He asked if they are able to add staff members. Ms. Bakken stated they have a staff of three, and will keep evaluating as things continue to grow. Councilmember Brausen noted Ms. Bakken had mentioned that it would take around 5 years to come back from the pandemic. She agreed 2024 is the year projected to be at full recovery. Councilmember Brausen asked what the council and city can do to support their efforts. Ms. Bakken said their feedback is appreciated and if there is more information they need from Discover St. Louis Park, they are glad to provide it. Mayor Spano added his thanks and noted Discover St. Louis Park won an award for the Destination Marketing Organization in MN, and this helps the visibility of both St. Louis Park and Golden Valley. 3b. Retirement recognition for Jeff Stevens Mayor Spano recognized Mr. Stevens for his work in public works as superintendent, operations manager, and superintendent over the past 40 years, on behalf of the council and read the resolution into the record. Mr. Hall, Public Works Director, thanked Mr. Stevens for his work. He noted Mr. Stevens puts the city first, and extended his retirement date to help staff support the city. He added he will miss working with him City council meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 4d) Page 3 Title: City council meeting minutes of March 20, 2023 Ms. Walsh added she will miss his candor, humor, loyalty, spirit, and respect for St. Louis Park. He always meets with people when there are issues, always steps forward, and sets high standards that the city appreciates. Mr. Stevens stated he started as a seasonal worker with the city and thanked the council and city for the opportunity and for the recognition. Councilmember Rog thanked Mr. Stevens for his service, politeness, and capability. She added he will be missed. Mayor Spano added his thanks to Mr. Stevens for his years of service, noting the recent big snowstorm that featured St. Louis Park public workers. He stated he was happy to see the comments from folks about the great support from public works, and it’s reassuring to see. He added the clearing of roads that the team and Mr. Stevens does has such a large impact on the city and added the city is forever in his debt, adding they will miss him. 3c. Proclamation honoring the beginning of Ramadan Councilmember Mohamed read the proclamation honoring the beginning of Ramadan on March 22, 2023. Councilmember Mohamed thanked the Mayor for having her read this as it is of great importance to her. 3d. Proclamation recognizing Mental Health Awareness month Mayor Spano read the proclamation recognizing Mental Health Awareness month as May of 2023. 3e. Recognition of donations Mayor Spano recognized a donation from the MN Waterworks Association for up to $2,000 for City Utilities Superintendent Austin Holmes to attend and compete in the annual conference in Toronto, Canada, and a grant of $270,000 from the Park Nicollet Foundation to the Fire Department for a Health Referral Coordinator. Mayor Spano noted his thanks to the Park Nicollet Foundation for their ongoing partnership in the community and their support over these many years. 4. Approval of minutes 4a. Study session meeting minutes of Oct. 24, 2022 It was moved by Councilmember Rog, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to approve the study session meeting minutes of Oct. 24, 2022, as presented. City council meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 4d) Page 4 Title: City council meeting minutes of March 20, 2023 The motion passed 7-0. 4b. Study session minutes of Nov. 7, 2022 It was moved by Councilmember Mohamed, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to approve the study session minutes of Nov. 7, 2022, as presented. The motion passed 7-0. 4c. Study session minutes of Nov. 28, 2022 It was moved by Councilmember Mohamed, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to approve the study session minutes of Nov. 28, 2022, as presented. The motion passed 7-0. 4d. Study session minutes of Dec 12, 2022 It was moved by Councilmember Rog, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to approve the study session minutes of Dec. 12, 2022, as presented. The motion passed 7-0. 5. Approval of agenda and items on consent calendar 5a. Resolution No. 23-034 accepting city manager’s performance evaluation. 5b. Adopt Ordinance No. 2662-23 amending city code chapter 36 pertaining to zoning. 5c. Approve professional services contract for the Cedar Lake Road improvement project. 5d. Award contract for the reconstruction of Aquila Park tennis courts. 5e. Resolution No. 23-035 accepting grant from Park Nicollet Foundation to Fire department. 5f. Resolution No. 23-036 accepting donation from Minnesota American Water Works Association. 5g. Reject yard waste proposals and authorize staff to solicit yard waste collection RFP. 5h. Resolution No. 23-037 recognizing retirement of Jeff Stevens, operations superintendent. 5i. Resolution No. 23-038 authorizing grant application and execution of grant agreement for sanitary sewer lining projects. 5j. Resolution No. 23-039 approving amendment to contract for private development with Beltline Station LLC. 5k. Bid tabulation: 2023 street maintenance (4023-1200) 5l. Resolution No. 23-040 amending 2023 budget for the water utility fund and solid waste fund. City council meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 4d) Page 5 Title: City council meeting minutes of March 20, 2023 Mayor Spano noted the yearly review of the city manager is one of the items on the consent agenda tonight, adding this is the first-year review of Ms. Keller. He commented on how much the council appreciates her and her work. It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Mohamed, to approve the agenda as presented and items listed on the consent calendar; and to waive reading of all resolutions and ordinances. The motion passed 7-0. 6. Public hearings - none 7. Regular business – none 8. Communications and announcements Ms. Keller noted there are opportunities for youth ages 14 - 21, to learn about being a peace officer in St. Louis Park through the police explorer program. She also noted opportunities for adults to serve in the police reserves, in night patrols and city events. She encouraged everyone to check out the city website for more information. Councilmember Brausen noted there will not be a regular city council meeting or study session as several city council members are attending the National Leagues of Cities convention to be held in Washington D.C., to lobby legislators about projects in St. Louis Park and discuss city issues with city representatives. 9. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 7:20 p.m. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Jake Spano, mayor Meeting: City council Meeting date: April 17, 2023 Consent agenda item: 5a Executive summary Title: Financial support services from Abdo Financial Solutions, LLC – contract amendment (142- 22) Recommended action: Motion to authorize execution of a contract amendment to a professional services contract with Abdo Financial Solutions, LLC in the amount up to $453,000 for financial support services. Policy consideration: Does council support entering into a contract for financial support services? Summary: Due to vacancies in the finance division, support from Abdo Financial Solutions, LLC is needed to fill the duties of a finance director, finance division open positions and ensure daily operations. The city has an obligation to perform critical financial tasks and make sure they are being carried out in accordance with government finance best practices. This includes preparing for the annual audit. In addition to the day-to-day functions of the finance division, support from Abdo Financial Solutions is being sought to support the transition of the new finance director and to support in the implementation of recommendations from the process evaluation. Our new finance director, Amelia Cruver, begins on April 26. Financial or budget considerations: Funding for this contract will be covered by salary savings from vacancies, contractual services line items in current budget, and ARPA dollars. Strategic priority consideration: Not applicable. Supporting documents: Discussion Prepared by: Cheyenne Brodeen, administrative services director Reviewed by: Cindy Walsh, deputy city manager Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager City council meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 5a) Page 2 Title: Financial support services from Abdo Financial Solutions, LLC – contract amendment (142-22) Discussion Background: The city signed an agreement with Abdo Financial Solutions, LCC to provide financial support services beginning Dec. 2022 through Apr. of 2023. The scope of services in the initial contract included: Finance director services, audit preparation; and a process evaluation. To prepare the city for an impending financial software conversion in 2024, a process evaluation is critical to document all processes to ensure workflows for the new system are efficient and accurate. Once complete, the process evaluation will provide written documentation of processes and opportunity to increase efficiency of workflows. The outcomes of the process evaluation are to provide the necessary documentation for the software conversion and create a roadmap of all processes in the finance division. Present considerations: Since Jan. 2023 there have been additional vacancies in the finance division. These vacancies have presented the need for additional accounting support to complete daily tasks as well as to prepare for the upcoming annual audit. The city’s new finance director starts Apr. 26, 2023. To aid in the transition, staff is including three additional items in the final scope of services: 1. Necessary accounting services, up to $170,000. 2. Finance director transition services which include coaching in operations and audit preparation. This amount is up to $20,000. 3. Process evaluation recommendations implementation which includes implementation and training support for staff. This amount is up to $75,000. A summary of the current and additional services to the contract is below: Scope of services Original amount Additional amount Existing services: • Finance director services, audit preparation and process evaluation $170,000 $17,611.75 Additional services: • Accounting services $170,000 • Finance director transition services $20,000 • Process evaluation implementation $75,000 Totals: $170,000 $282,611.75 Grand total: $452,611.75 Staff anticipates needing the above services from Abdo Financial Services through June 2023. This will allow for the necessary onboarding for the finance director and the hiring of additional vacancies. Next steps: With authorization from council, staff will amend the contract with Abdo Financial Solutions, LLC. Meeting: City council Meeting date: April 17, 2023 Consent agenda item: 5b Executive summary Title: Appoint representatives to Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission Recommended action: Motion to adopt resolution appointing RJ Twiford and reappointing Erick Francis to the Basset Creek Watershed Management Commission (BCWMC) to serve terms expiring on January 31, 2026. Policy consideration: Does the city council support appointment of representatives to the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission? Summary: The City of St. Louis Park is partially located in the Bassett Creek Watershed. The BCWMC was established by a Joint Powers Agreement authorized under Minnesota State Statues to oversee and coordinate the management of surface water between the nine member cities, which include Crystal, Golden Valley, Medicine Lake, Minneapolis, Minnetonka, New Hope, Plymouth, Robbinsdale and St. Louis Park. Their mission is to control flooding and to maintain and enhance the quality of the surface and ground water resources in the watershed. Each member city is entitled to appoint one Commissioner, one Alternate Commissioner, and one member to the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) of the BCWMC. The Basset Creek Watershed Management Commission requires committee appointments to be approved by resolution. The city’s commissioner role is currently vacant. Staff recommend the appointment of RJ Twiford to fill this position. Mr. Twiford lives near the watershed and is extremely interested in representing St. Louis Park on the commission. Erick Francis is currently the city’s TAC representative. His term is due for reappointment. The city’s alternate commissioner is Angela Lawrence, whose term expires in 2024. Financial or budget considerations: Each member city is required to contribute each year to the BCWMC general fund. The city’s assessment of costs associated with the BCWMC is $23,597 for 2023. Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to continue to lead in environmental stewardship. Supporting documents: Resolution Prepared by: Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager City council meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 5b) Page 2 Title: Appoint representatives to Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission Resolution No. 23-____ Resolution appointing R.J. Twiford as commissioner and reappointing Erick Francis as member of the technical advisory committee for the Basset Creek Watershed Management Commission (BCWMC) to serve terms expiring on January 31, 2026 Whereas, the City of St. Louis Park is partially located in the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission area and is required under state law to manage its storm water runoff; and Whereas, the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission has been organized under Minnesota State Statutes to manage the storm waters of cities whose boundaries fall within the water management area; and Whereas, the City of St. Louis Park has adopted a Joint Powers Agreement joining the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission; and Now therefore be it resolved by the city council of the City of St. Louis Park: 1. Appoint R.J. Twifor as commissioner of the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission to fill the remainder of the three-year term expiring January 31, 2026. 2. Reappoint Erick Francis as the city’s representative on the Technical Advisory Committee of the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission for the three- year term expiring January 31, 2026. Be it further resolved that the city clerk shall, within 30 days of its adoption, file a certified copy of this resolution with the secretary of the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission. Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the City Council April 17, 2023 Kim Keller, city manager Jake Spano, mayor Attest: Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Meeting: City council Meeting date: April 17, 2023 Action agenda item: 7a Executive summary Title: Approval of 2023-2028 Garbage, Recycling and Organics Recycling collection contracts Recommended action: Motion to adopt a resolution which designates Buckingham Trucking, LLC dba The Buckingham Companies (Buckingham) as the contractor for residential garbage and recycling collection services; and designate Allied Waste Services, LLC dba Republic Services (Republic) as the contractor for residential organics recycling collection and authorizes the execution of contracts with Buckingham and Republic for those services. Policy consideration: 1. Does council support entering into a contract with Buckingham for garbage and recycling collection services? 2. Does council support entering into a contract with Republic for residential organics recycling collection services? Summary: At the Feb. 27, 2023 study session, council gave staff direction to negotiate garbage, recycling and organics contracts. Following council’s direction at that session, council’s first option for the recycling contract withdrew their proposal. Subsequently, staff negotiated adding recycling services to the contract with Buckingham. Both contracts will be from Oct. 1, 2023 to Dec. 3, 2028. The five-year cost is estimated to be $15,734,000 for the garbage and recycling collection services and $2,923,000 for organics recycling collection services. Staff is still looking into options for yard waste removal services and will bring that to the council for their approval at a future date. Financial or budget considerations: All costs from the city contracting for residential garbage, recycling and organics recycling collection are associated with the solid waste enterprise fund. The final contract amounts are higher than in previous years. Staff will bring rate increase options to council for consideration once contracts have been executed for all materials and yard waste collection has been negotiated. Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to continue to lead in environmental stewardship. Supporting documents: Discussion Resolution Prepared by: Kala Fisher, public services superintendent/deputy public works director Reviewed by: Jay Hall, public works director Cindy Walsh, deputy city manager Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager City council meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 7a) Page 2 Title: Approval of 2023-2028 Garbage, Recycling and Organics Recycling collection contracts Discussion Background: At the Nov. 14, 2022 study session, staff provided a written report outlining the existing solid waste program including contract timeframe and steps needed to execute the next contract. At the Nov. 28, 2022 study session, staff spoke with council about the solid waste collection request for proposals (RFP). In consideration of rising labor and equipment costs, no significant changes were made to the RFP to avoid respondents needing additional resources (i.e. staffing or equipment) to provide collection. Instead, the focus was placed on ensuring consistent services for the city’s well-established organized collection program, with an emphasis of splitting work between multiple haulers based on material collected. Council authorized staff to solicit proposals for 2023 – 2028 residential garbage, recycling, organics and yard waste collection at the Dec. 19, 2022 council meeting. At the Feb. 27, 2023 study session, staff spoke with council about the proposals that were received and evaluation of proposals. Following the discussion, council provided staff with the following direction: • Negotiate 5-year contracts with Buckingham for collection of garbage, Eureka Recycling for collection of recycling and Republic for organics. • Reject yard waste proposals and issue a new request for proposals for yard waste services only. On Mar. 2, 2023, Eureka Recycling notified the city that they would be withdrawing their proposal for recycling collection. At that time, staff began negotiations with the council’s next choice, Buckingham, for recycling collection. At the Mar. 20, 2023 council meeting, council rejected the yard waste proposals and authorized staff to issue a new request for proposals for yard waste services only. The yard waste request for proposals was issued on Mar. 31. Residential yard waste collection service proposals are due to the city on Apr. 28, 2023. Staff will return to council this spring with yard waste collection options after reviewing proposals. Contract Terms and Conditions: The following are major components of the contracts. General • Contract length is five years, from Oct. 1, 2023 to Dec. 3, 2028 • Collection days of the week will not change • Contractors will provide residents with educational tags for improper set outs • Contractors will use the city’s electronic database for tracking customer issues • Contractors will provide the city with a variety of required reports • City will assess penalties for contract non-compliance • City may terminate the contract upon 30 days written notice for failure to perform City council meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 7a) Page 3 Title: Approval of 2023-2028 Garbage, Recycling and Organics Recycling collection contracts • Contractors will indemnify and hold harmless the city against claims, losses, expenses, etc. • Contractors will submit certificates of insurance and financial guarantee, as required by the city Garbage • Garbage collection will remain weekly in city-owned carts, with optional every- other-week (EOW) collection for 30-gallon customers • Buckingham will provide an on-site supervisor and local customer service staff to handle collection issues • Buckingham will use diesel fueled rear-load trucks for collection • Garbage will be disposed of at the Hennepin Energy Recovery Center • Garbage disposal costs paid to Buckingham will be the actual costs they are charged by the disposal facility • Buckingham will provide walk-up service as an optional service to residents • Buckingham will host two cleanup day events annually • Buckingham will provide weekly bulk waste collection and appliance, electronic and mattress recycling collection as an optional service to residents Recycling • Recycling collection will remain every-other-week using city-owned carts • Buckingham will provide an on-site supervisor and local customer service staff to handle collection issues • Buckingham will use diesel fueled rear-load trucks for collection • Recycling materials will be processed at Dem-Con’s Shakopee material recycling facility • Recycling materials collected include all materials currently collected (except plastics #4 and scrap metal will no longer be collected) and additional materials agreed upon by Buckingham and the city throughout the contract • Recycling revenue sharing will continue to occur using the same general methodology as currently is being used • Buckingham will provide walk-up service as an optional service to residents Organics recycling • Organics recycling collection will remain weekly using city-owned carts • Republic will use an on-site supervisor and local and regional customer service staff to handle collection issues • Republic will use CNG (compressed natural gas) automated side-load trucks for curbside collection and diesel fueled rear-load trucks for alley collection • Republic will provide walk-up service as an optional service to residents • Organics recycling will be processed at the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community’s organics recycling facility or other city-approved composting facility City council meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 7a) Page 4 Title: Approval of 2023-2028 Garbage, Recycling and Organics Recycling collection contracts Next steps: Below are the major steps needed for implementing the new garbage, recycling and organics contracts and develop and award a yard waste contract: Item Completion Date Staff prepares a comprehensive education outreach program Apr. – May 2023 Contractor procures equipment Apr. – Sept. 2023 Yard waste proposals received/reviewed by staff Apr. – May 2023 Staff conducts public education outreach with residents May – Sept. 2023 Yard waste proposals reviewed with council June 2023 Yard waste collection contract approved by council June – July 2023 Review/revise solid waste utility rates with finance staff/city council June – Aug. 2023 New collection contracts begin Oct. 1, 2023 New utility rates become effective Jan. 1, 2024 City council meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 7a) Page 5 Title: Approval of 2023-2028 Garbage, Recycling and Organics Recycling collection contracts Resolution No. 23-____ Resolution designating service providers and authorizing contracts Whereas, the city reviewed, studied, and discussed desired residential garbage, recycling, and organics recycling collection services; and Whereas, on December 22, 2022, the City issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the city’s residential garbage, recycling, organics recycling and yard waste collection services to ACE Solid Waste, Aspen Waste, Buckingham Companies, Dick’s Sanitation, Eureka Recycling, Lakeshore Recycling Systems, Republic Services, Tennis Sanitation, Walter’s Recycling & Refuse, Vierkant Disposal, Waste Container Systems and Waste Management; and Whereas, on January 23, 2023, the city reviewed the proposals received from Buckingham Companies, Eureka Recycling, Republic Services and Waste Management for residential garbage, recycling, organics recycling and yard waste collection services; and Whereas, the council determined that the proposal received from The Buckingham Companies is in the best interest of the city for residential garbage and recycling and the proposal received from Republic Services is in the best interest of the city for residential, organics recycling collection services; and Now therefore be it resolved by the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota, that: 1) The city designates The Buckingham Companies as the service provider for residential garbage and recycling collection and Republic Services as the service provider for residential organics recycling collection in the City of St Louis Park, subject to the execution of contracts. 2) The mayor and city manager are hereby authorized, on behalf of the city council, to execute a five-year agreement with The Buckingham Companies as the service provider for residential garbage and recycling, and Republic Services as the service provider for residential organics recycling collection services in the city commencing on October 1, 2023 in conformance with the provisions developed and established in the proposal by The Buckingham Companies and Republic Services and the general terms and conditions considered by council. Reviewed for Administration: Adopted by the City Council April 17, 2023 Kim Keller, city manager Jake Spano, mayor Attest: Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Meeting: City council Meeting date: April 17, 2023 Communications: 8a Official minutes Planning commission Jan. 18, 2023 | 6 p.m. Members present: Jim Beneke, Mia Divecha, Matt Eckholm, Michael Salzer, Tom Weber, Jan Youngquist Members absent: Katie Martin Staff present: Jacquelyn Kramer, Gary Morrison, Sean Walther Guests: St. Louis Park School Superintendent Astein Osei Call to order – roll call Approval of minutes – Nov. 16, 2022 Commissioner Weber made a motion, seconded by Commissioner Salzer to approve the minutes as presented. The motion passed unanimously. Hearings 3a. St. Louis Park High School conditional use permit amendment Applicant: St. Louis Park School District Case No: 22-28-CUP Ms. Kramer presented the report. Commissioner Weber asked what is new and what was previously approved. Ms. Kramer stated all the additions on the building were previously approved. She added she is not sure if the basement storm shelter is new. She stated the parking lots were all previously approved and the parking along Idaho Ave will be built with the project, rather than the previous proposal of proof-of-parking. The track and field work has been added to the project scope. Mr. Tom Bravo, St. Louis Park School District, stated the track and field will be accomplished at the same time as the rest of the project and the storm water management system is also above and beyond the original 2018 plan. Commissioner Salzer asked if the track and field will be open to the public. Mr. Bravo stated the school district has not discussed accessibility yet, and right now it is fenced. He added if rented out, it will need to meet the school district’s needs. City council meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 8a) Page 2 Title: Planning commission meeting minutes of January 18, 2023 Ms. Kramer added the athletic fields will meet the needs of the school and parents or anyone that attends events, and thus may qualify as alternative landscaping features. The alternative landscaping features option is not a variance but is allowed in the zoning code with staff’s approval. Commissioner Salzer noted it is not general access then, and Ms. Kramer agreed, that is correct. Commissioner Divecha asked for an explanation of the performance guarantee and cash escrow. Ms. Kramer stated this is a condition that is standard on most city projects. She explained the city takes a cash escrow or letter of credit that covers the cost of landscaping installation, so in a year the city can inspect to be sure all the landscaping lived and then the funds are released. Commissioner Salzer asked about the new on-street parking and how it is configured. Ms. Kramer stated it is on Idaho Ave. and will be head in parking partially in the right of way and also on school property. She added sidewalk will be installed around the new spaces and new landscaping will be planted to screen the school from the street. Commissioner Salzer asked who is responsible for snow removal in the parking lot. Ms. Kramer stated it is an ongoing discussion to be finalized in the contracts signed with the school. Commissioner Youngquist asked if the parking along Idaho Ave. is because students are driving to school and does the district do anything to disincentive students from driving to school. Mr. Bravo stated it was done because there were requirements that needed to be met. He noted this type of parking works well near Library Lane, and this design of parking was included. St. Louis Park School Superintendent Osei stated students are not disincentivized to drive to school but students do have access with busing and also students driving to school must go through a process to obtain a parking permit to park at the school. Commissioner Divecha asked if the feedback from the Park Adam bus driver going to be incorporated to level the bus drop-off at Library Lane. Ms. Kramer stated she was not sure and there has not been time to share this with the applicant. Mr. Bravo stated the parking will be all leveled off, similar to the middle school drop off. Mr. Bravo also noted this location was outside the current project area. Commissioner Salzer asked how many spots will be in the new parking lot, adding it looks very tight, and asked if there is a variance. Ms. Kramer stated the design meets all driveway width and parking standards of the city as well as parking count requirements. Commissioner Salzer asked if there will be handicapped parking in the new area. Ms. Kramer stated there will be 3 handicapped spots there on the north side, near the entrance. Chair Beneke opened the public hearing. City council meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 8a) Page 3 Title: Planning commission meeting minutes of January 18, 2023 There were no speakers present. Chair Beneke closed the public hearing. Commissioner Weber made a motion, seconded by Commissioner Eckholm, to approve the CUP as presented by staff. The motion passed unanimously. Other Business – Mr. Walther stated Chair and Vice Chair positions need to be nominated today. Commissioner Weber volunteered to be Chair. Commissioner Divecha volunteered to be Vice Chair. Commissioner Salzer made a motion, seconded by Commissioner Youngquist to approve Commissioner Weber be 2023 Planning Commission Chair, and Commissioner Divecha be 2023 Planning Commission Vice Chair. The motion passed unanimously. Communications – Mr. Walther noted the study session will follow this meeting. He noted items on the study session agenda that will be discussed. Mr. Walther stated the Feb 1, 2023, meeting is cancelled, and the next meeting will be Feb. 15, 2023. He added Katie Martin is the new commissioner appointed in December to replace Commissioner Kraft’s vacant seat. Adjournment- 6:22 p.m. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Sean Walther, liaison Jim Beneke, chair member Meeting: City council Meeting date: April 17, 2023 Communications: 8b Official minutes Planning commission study session Jan. 18, 2023 | 6:30 p.m. Members present: Jim Beneke, Mia Divecha, Matt Eckholm, Michael Salzer, Tom Weber, Jan Youngquist Members absent: Katie Martin 1. 2022 annual reports and 2023 planning commission work plan Mr. Walther presented the report and noted he adjusted several dates in the work plan. He noted more details are coming about the proposal and timing and schedule of the SW light rail plans. He stated proposals are expected to be received tomorrow and the goal is to complete the project in 9 – 10 months and the consultant will be selected before the next commission meeting on Feb. 15, and schedule and timing will be forthcoming. Commissioner Youngquist asked if the station areas are ½ mile in radius around the station. Mr. Walther stated yes. Commissioner Beneke asked if these areas are zoned separately now. Mr. Walther stated the districts have been adjusted around the station from industrial to business park, and some moved to mixed use as well. He added the Sam’s club site was also rezoning to business park, so there is potential for some new developments there also. Mr. Walther stated the comprehensive plan could be amended going forward. He noted the Micro Center site could also be redeveloped at some point also. Commissioner Weber asked if the development will be affected during the zoning changes. Mr. Walther stated every year there are minor changes that are made. He added on the work plan, the review of residential districts will also be part of the work of the commission. Mr. Walther noted the timing on this will go into 4th quarter and the zoning regulations will be in place very soon as well. Mr. Walther noted the city has a new racial equity director, and noted the training for boards and commissions will be discussed as this moves forward. Commissioner Youngquist asked about holding meetings in different locations. Mr. Walther stated in the past meetings have been held at different facilities in the city, adding that one study session was held in the Walker Lake Historic District in the past. City council meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 8b) Page 2 Title: Planning commission study session minutes of January 18, 2023 Commissioner Weber asked if a meeting might be held at the high school during the school day and so to also recruit a student for the commission. Mr. Walther asked the commissioners about their availability. They noted if it is planned well in advance, it could work. Mr. Walther noted that timing for appointments of student members is in August. Commissioner Divecha asked about the analysis of distribution of projects. Mr. Walther stated this just shows the activity, applications and trends of projects that come through the planning commission to give an idea of the workload and trends. Commissioner Youngquist asked about items in the parking lot. Mr. Walther stated several requests were made in the industrial districts, where there have been changes and others came from commissioner ideas, noting those items were prioritized or put on hold, or being done through other work. Commissioner Beneke asked if there is anyway to get more owner occupied vs. rentals. Mr. Walther stated the council is looking more action with affordable home ownership. He added the city has had much success with 50-60% AMI and now is looking to shift to 30% AMI, while the council is also interested in affordable home ownership. Mr. Walther asked if the items in the parking lot items should remain there. The commissioners noted the parking lot items can remain as they are. 2. Miscellaneous zoning code amendments Mr. Morrison presented the report and noted each item in detail. Commissioner Youngquist asked why the temporary structures was changed from 6 months to 2 weeks. Mr. Morrison stated there was a more permanent tennis facility set up at a fitness center that utilized a temporary roof during the winter. The code was changed to 14 days after that facility was replaced with a permanent building. Covid reintroduced utilizing temporary structures during the winter for activities like outdoor dining. Mr. Walther also noted there were concerns with outdoor dining and heaters as it relates to the city’s climate action plan. The commission agreed to eliminate the option to increase the maximum number of cars parked on the driveway depending upon the number of licensed drivers living in the house. Commissioner Divecha noted the recommended maximum number is three but asked if it should be increased. The commission discussed this, but decided to stay with three, noting it could be increased if it becomes apparent that three is too low. Commissioner Divecha asked if the cars could be kept at 3 allowed and then an exception if there is a snow emergency. Mr. Walther said from staff perspective that is fine. City council meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 8b) Page 3 Title: Planning commission study session minutes of January 18, 2023 With regards to eliminating the required 25-foot setback for food service adjacent to residential properties, Commissioner Youngquist asked where C1 is in the city. Mr. Morrison stated primarily commercial properties along Minnetonka Blvd and Excelsior Blvd are C1. The commissioners discussed painting brick facades. Mr. Walther noted the community is not opposed to brick painting, citing a previous example where the BOZA required paint to be removed from a building, but seemed open to allowing painted buildings if the code were changed. He also reviewed other examples of when brick is painted, which includes murals and signs. Mr. Morrison stated new construction must meet the minimum required class 1 materials, which includes unpainted brick, stone and other unpainted materials. Existing buildings, however, would be free to paint the brick and other class 1 materials. Mr. Walther noted that it is so difficult to stop buildings from being painted because a permit is not required, so the city typically finds out after the fact. Commissioner Beneke asked about the hemp derived products and if the council had already approved this. Mr. Walther stated this was approved by the state, but the city still can regulate this. He stated the city will be looking at the rules and there will be more to come on this. 3. Adjournment – 7:45 p.m. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Sean Walther, liaison Jim Beneke, chair member Meeting: Closed session Meeting date: April 17, 2023 Discussion item: 1 Executive summary Title: Acquisition of MNDOT excess land in the 2800 block of Toledo Avenue Recommended action: Review the offer letters from MNDOT and provide staff direction. Staff recommends the city accept the offers from MNDOT to convey to the city two parcels of land totaling 1.69 acres in the 2800 Block of Toledo Avenue South and adjacent to Highway 100. Policy consideration: Does the city want to accept the offers from MNDOT to acquire the properties? Summary: The city council will discuss the property acquisition in a closed session. Based on discussion, final documents will be presented for formal action at subsequent council and/or economic development authority meeting(s). In accordance with Minnesota open meeting law, this meeting will be audio recorded. The law states: “A public body may close a meeting to determine the asking price for real or personal property to be sold by the government entity, to review confidential or protected nonpublic appraisal data, or to develop or consider offers or counteroffers for the purchase or sale of real or personal property.” The proceedings of a meeting closed under these terms must be tape recorded and the recording must be preserved for eight years after the date of the meeting. The actual purchase or sale must be approved at an open meeting. Financial or budget considerations: In addition to the cost of acquiring the land from MNDOT, the city would incur administrative costs and costs to maintain the property. The property will be paid for by the development fund. Strategic priority consideration: •St. Louis Park is committed to continue to lead in environmental stewardship. •St. Louis Park is committed to providing a broad range of housing and neighborhood oriented development. Supporting documents: Discussion, MNDOT offer letters for Conveyances 2021-0066 and 2021-0067, including property legal descriptions and site location maps Prepared by: Sean Walther, planning manager / deputy CD director Reviewed by: Jason West, parks and recreation director Karen Barton, community development director Cindy Walsh, deputy city manager Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager Meeting: Special study session Meeting date: April 17, 2023 Discussion item: 1 Executive summary Title: On-street semitruck parking regulations Recommended action: The purpose of this report is to provide the council background on semitruck parking, share the impact of the current regulations, and determine if the council would like to take a systems approach to this topic. Policy consideration: Does the council wish to to create both allowance for and access to semitruck parking in the city? Summary: On-street semitruck parking complaints began in 2019 along the frontage roads on both sides of County Road 25, east of Beltline Boulevard. This started a series of council discussions that resulted in an ordinance updating the city code to allow semitruck parking regulations to be posted in the community. This resulted in prohibiting semitruck parking on these frontage roads. Since that time, staff has received additional requests to regulate on-street semitruck parking in other locations in the city. Staff reviewed each of these requests on a set of criteria and provided traffic studies for council consideration. On-street semitruck parking restrictions, limiting the hours during which trucks can park, have been approved on three additional streets. With the installation of each new parking regulation, staff is observing semitruck parking shift to other streets within the city, even during allowable hours. This shift generates another set of complaints and further time-based restrictions which are slowly limiting available on-street semitruck parking within the community. Staff has reviewed the remaining streets that meet land use guidance and are wide enough to allow parking for on-street semis and determined there are a limited number of streets that are available for parking. As on-street truck parking regulations continue to be implemented, staff is concerned that the city will eventually end up defacto-prohibiting truck parking in the community. Before this occurs, staff is asking the council if it is the body’s desire for some on- street semitruck parking to remain utilized. If that is the case, recommends a more systems- based approach to managing on-street semitruck parking. Financial or budget considerations: No budget considerations at this time. More information can be found in the financial consideration section of this report. Strategic priority consideration: Not applicable. Supporting documents: Discussion Land use and on-street truck parking location maps Aug. 2, 2021 council report Prepared by: Jack Sullivan, engineering project manager Reviewed by: Debra Heiser, engineering director Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager Special study session meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 2 Title: On-street semitruck parking regulations Discussion Background In May 2021, the city council discussed on-street semitruck parking across the city during a study session. At the study session, the council directed staff to develop an ordinance creating authority for the city to restrict trucks from parking on streets in areas where they were currently allowed. This direction was in response to resident and business concerns brought to council members related to truck parking along the south County Road 25 Service Road, east of Beltline Boulevard. The city zoning code at that time stated that no motor vehicle, recreational vehicle, commercial vehicle, or trailer could park in any residential district. However, there were no similar large vehicle prohibitions in areas zoned commercial, business park, industrial, office, mixed-use, or park and open space. In Aug. 2021, the city council passed Ordinance 2623-21, amending city code Section 30-153, allowing the city, by posted signs prohibiting the parking of such vehicles, to restrict parking for a semi-trailer, truck tractor or combination thereof, or any other vehicle with more than 12,000 pounds of gross vehicle weight, or any vehicle designed, used, or maintained for towing other motor vehicles. Current city code parking restrictions The city code includes the following parking restrictions: • Section 30-153 o No vehicle shall be parked in the same place for more than 48 hours. o Unlawful for semi-trailer, truck tractor or combination thereof, or any vehicle with gross weight over 12,000 pounds to park on city streets that are marked by signs prohibiting such vehicles. • Sec. 30-155 o Non-trucks also shall not be parked in public alleys, while trucks can be parked for up to 30 minutes to load or unload materials (Sec. 30-155). • Sec. 36-162.f.1 o No motor vehicle, recreational vehicle, commercial vehicle, or trailer shall be permitted to stand or park in any residential district (R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, and R-C) that exceed any of the following: a) Height of 8 feet b) Length of 22 feet c) Empty weight of 6,500 pounds Existing trucking industry considerations The council report from Aug. 2, 2021 cited a 2019 study from the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) with factors that contribute to truck parking demand across the state. Due to governmental regulations, many drivers prefer to park their trucks near their homes and/or near where they pick up or drop off loads. This helps maximize the amount of time they can be driving with loads. Special study session meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 3 Title: On-street semitruck parking regulations In 2022, Minneapolis banned on-street truck parking and St. Paul only allows it in industrial areas, which has put pressure on first-ring suburbs for truck parking. MnDOT is aware of the nationwide trend of more trucks carrying more freight with fewer places to park. Later this summer, MnDOT will begin solicitations for 21 million dollars in federal funding per year in the fiscal years 2026-2028 to implement freight improvements through the Minnesota Highway Freight Program. Cities and counties may apply for up to 10 million dollars for their own parking projects or improvements. These funds are expected to focus on regional highway corridors and greater Minnesota communities and may not be well suited for denser urban metro communities such as St. Louis Park. Race equity considerations There is a relatively low barrier of entry to form a small carrier business by purchasing as few as 1 or 2 vehicles. This has led many immigrants and people from Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities to start their own trucking businesses. The US Department of Labor estimates that 40% of truck drivers are from BIPOC communities. Study and outreach performed by the City of Minneapolis have shown that many Twin Cities truck drivers are from East African immigrant communities though they have been unable to find specific demographic information. Current considerations On-street truck parking restrictions in St. Louis Park Since the update to the city code in Aug. 2021, the city has enacted on-street semitruck parking regulations on the following roads based on community complaints. • Sept. 2021 – County Road 25 service drives: Truck Parking prohibited o South service drive from Beltline Boulevard to France Avenue o North service drive from Ottawa Avenue to Minnetonka Boulevard • Oct. 2021 – Oxford Street: Truck Parking restricted from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday- Friday o Both sides of Oxford Street between Powell Road and Louisiana Avenue • May 2022 – Highway 7 Frontage Road: Truck Parking prohibited o North side of Highway 7 Frontage Road from Texas Avenue west to include the cul-de-sac. • Jan. 2023 – 35th Street: Truck Parking restricted from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Seven (7) days a week o Both sides of 35th Street west of Raleigh Avenue o This will be installed in the spring of 2023 On-street truck parking evaluation criteria Staff used the following criteria to develop recommendations for the above-referenced on- street truck parking regulations: • What is the adjacent land use and how compatible is it with semitruck parking? Staff has determined that general industrial and industrial park zoned areas are appropriate land uses for consideration of truck parking. Special study session meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 4 Title: On-street semitruck parking regulations • Does semitruck parking interfere with the ability of the surrounding land uses to operate due to a reduction of available parking for their daily operations? • Does semitruck parking create sightline visibility concerns for vehicles at intersections, private driveways, or curvature in the roadway? • Is the street wide enough to accommodate parked trucks and two-way traffic? When an area is being considered for restrictions, staff first post it with signs explaining what is happening and asking for feedback into the decision-making process. Staff observations are that the truck parking typically migrates to the next available street in town, even before decisions about the regulation are made. In addition, feedback from the two semitruck drivers that have identified themselves when contacting staff is that they do not have a regular schedule, and usually need to park their truck longer than the time allowed. Due to these comments and staff observation of the migration, staff surmise that this may be common across the industry. As a result, even on streets where truck parking is allowed overnight, or on weekends, drivers are choosing not to park there, instead electing to park where there are no restrictions. Staff has observed on-street truck parking on these streets in the city which may generate future complaints: • Raleigh Avenue adjacent to 35th Street • Monitor Avenue south of Lake Street near the Loffler redevelopment • 27th Street, west of Louisiana Avenue • Boone Avenue (private road) near the Bremer Bank building Anticipating additional complaints, staff took a look at the city as a whole and applied the criteria used in past traffic studies to better understand how the city would respond to additional complaints if they came in. Attached are maps showing the locations in the city where on-street parking, with time and day restrictions, could be considered based on the criteria above. The map highlights streets in industrial areas. Previous actions in industrial areas were to allow on-street semitruck parking only during certain times. However, staff is concerned that time restricted parking is not meeting the needs of drivers. Based on its review and observed driver behavior, staff believes that the current approach to addressing on-street semitruck complaints may result in drivers not parking anywhere in the city. Due to this, staff is seeking a more comprehensive approach to on-street truck parking regulations if council wishes to continue to offer on-street semitruck parking within St. Louis Park. Special study session meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 5 Title: On-street semitruck parking regulations Other community truck regulations In 2022, the city of Minneapolis banned on-street truck parking, which in turn has pushed truck parking to the first-ring cities. To help inform this conversation, staff reached out to surrounding communities. Many of St. Louis Park’s neighbors have year-round overnight parking restrictions that help to limit the amount of on-street truck parking that occurs in their communities. Below is a summary of parking restrictions near St. Louis Park: City Citywide regulation Timeframe Bloomington On-street parking limited to 24 hours Year-round Crystal No Parking – 2 a.m. to 5 a.m. All year Edina No parking – 1 a.m. to 6 a.m. Nov. 1 to April 1 Golden Valley No Parking – 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. Nov. 1 to March 31 Hopkins Allowed in industrial areas only All year Minneapolis No on-street truck parking allowed in the city All year Minnetonka No Parking – 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. All year New Hope No Parking – 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. All year Plymouth No Parking – 2 a.m. to 5 a.m. All year St. Paul Allowed in industrial areas only On-street parking limited to 48 hours in one spot All year Staff recommendation Staff is concerned that applying the criteria used to evaluate the previous on-street truck restriction requests will eventually end up defacto-prohibiting truck parking in the community. Before this occurs, staff is asking the council if non-time/day limited on-street truck parking should remain in the city; if the council agrees, staff recommends a more proactive and comprehensive approach to managing truck parking in the city. If the council wishes to create both allowance for and access to on-street semitruck parking in the city, staff recommends creating a proactive, systems approach to how this occurs. Specifically, staff recommends creating semi-truck parking zones that are not restricted by day of the week or time of day. Benefits to this approach include: • Improving upon the current approach which services to move the problem around the city. • Ensuring that the city does not end up defacto-prohibiting on-street truck parking since the time-restrictions are proving to not meet drivers’ needs. • Providing on-street truck parking that is more deliberate, clear for users and property owners, and efficient with staff time than addressing it on a complaint-driven basis. Special study session meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 1) Page 6 Title: On-street semitruck parking regulations Financial considerations The cost of installing on-street truck parking signage on a per-case basis is dependent on the length of the street, with a per sign cost of approximately $300 each. For a more comprehensive citywide approach, additional review will be needed prior to providing a budget. Sign installation is funded by the general operating budget. Depending on the direction given by the council, staff would provide a cost estimate at a future meeting. Next steps If the council is supportive of a systems approach to on-street truck parking, the following steps will be completed: • Staff from fire, police and public works will begin the process of analyzing the conditions under which trucks would be allowed on the street. • A draft policy will be developed, along with costs and implementation. • The attorney will be consulted to understand the city code changes that would be needed to implement. This information can be brought back to council later this year for review and consideration. EXCELSIOR BLVD Lou isiana Oaks Dakota Park TEXAS AVE SYOSEMITEAVESDAKOTA AVE SM O N T E R E Y D R CEDAR LAKE R D 36TH ST W 28TH ST W BELTLINEBLVDQUENTIN AVE SWO O D D A L E A V EAQUIL A AVES LAKE ST WFRANCEAVESHIGHWAY 100 SLOUISIANA AVE SHIGHWAY169WALKER ST PARKPLACEBLVDMINNETONKA BLVD INTERSTATE 394 16TH ST WFORDRD OXFORD S T HIGHWAY 7 Wolfe Park Aquila Park Bass Lake Preserve Westwo od Hills Nature Center 7 394 394 100 100 25 5 3 100 3 7 5 5 17 394 169 169 169 0 1 20.5 Miles Compatible Land Use Locations Zoning Districts General Industrial Industrial Park Date: 4/11/2023 Special study session meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 1) Title: On-street semitruck parking regulations Page 7 EXCELSIOR BLVD Louisiana Oaks Dakota ParkCEDAR LAKE RD4646TEXAS AVE SDAKOTA AVE SM O N T E R E Y D R 36TH ST W 28TH ST W BELTLINEBLVDWO O D D A L E A V ELAKE ST WHIGHWAY 100 SLOUISIANA AVE SWALKER ST MINNETONKA BLVD OXFORD ST HIGHWAY 7 Wolfe Park Bass Lake Preserve 30 28302930 31 27 30 33 3337 363634 36 33 34 4647.544 100 25 5 3 100 3 7 5 0 1 20.5 Miles Land Use and Roadway Widths Pavement Width Under 33 feet 33 - 41 feet 42 + feet Zoning Districts General Industrial Industrial Park Date: 4/11/2023 Special study session meeting of April 17, 2023 (Item No. 1) Title: On-street semitruck parking regulations Page 8