HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018/10/01 - ADMIN - Minutes - City Council - Regular/OfSt. Louis Park Official minutes
M I N N E S 0 T A City council meeting
6xporcn e WfE in the Park St. Louis Park, Minnesota
October 1, 2018
1. Call to order
Mayor Spano called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m.
Councilmembers present: Mayor Jake Spano, Tim Brausen, Steve Hallfin, Rachel Harris, Anne
Mavity, Thom Miller, and Margaret Rog.
Councilmembers absent: None.
Staff present: City Manager (Mr. Harmening), City Attorney (Mr. Mattick), Deputy City
Manager/Human Resources Director (Ms. Deno), Director of Community Development (Ms.
Barton), Inspections Director (Mr. Hoffman), Engineering Director (Ms. Heiser), Operations &
Recreation Director (Ms. Walsh), Recreation Supervisor (Mr. West), Nature Center Supervisor
(Mr. Oestreich), Chief Financial Officer (Mr. Simon), Associate Planner (Ms. Kramer), Sr.
Engineering Project Manager (Mr. Shamla), Housing Supervisor (Ms. Schnitker), Management
Assistant (Ms. Carrillo Perez), and Recording Secretary (Ms. Pappas).
Guests:
1a. Pledge of allegiance
1b. Roll call
2. Presentations
2a. Recognition of donations.
Mayor Spano thanked the following persons for their donations, on behalf of the city
council:
• Arlene Jackson - $2000 — purchase and installation of a memorial bench in Wolfe
Park honoring Richard, Arlene, Teddy and Lilly.
• St. Louis Park Golden Kiwanis - $100 —37th annual Halloween party at Westwood
Hills Nature Center
• Plus Relocation Services, LLC - $300— purchase and installation of a
commemorative Gingko tree in Shelard Park honoring Plus Relocation Services,
LLC
Approval of minutes
3a. City council special study session minutes September 4, 2018.
it was moved by Councilmember Hallfin, seconded by Councilmember erausen, to
approve the City Council Special Study Session Meeting Minutes of September 4, 2018, as
presented.
City Council Meeting -2- October 1, 2018
The motion passed 7-0.
3b. City Council Minutes September 4, 2018.
Councilmember Rog noted on page 5, section 3b, paragraph 1, it should read, "She
added if there was more time, council might consider including language that
acknowledges the history of over -policing in black neighborhoods and the concerns
about surveillance that history has created as well as how our policy addresses this."
Councilmember Rog also noted on page 5, section 3b, paragraph 2, it should read,
"...which she acknowledged are included in the resolution being proposed by
Councilmember Mavity tonight..."
It was moved by Councilmember Brousen, seconded by Councilmember Miller, to
approve the City Council Meeting Minutes of September 4, 2018, as amended.
The motion passed 7-0.
4. Approval of agenda and items on consent calendar.
4a. Accept for filing city disbursement claims for the period of August 25 through
September 21, 2018.
4b. Approve second reading and adopt Ordinance No. 2543-18 pertaining to
educational facilities in the R-4 multiple -family residence zoning district, and to
approve the ordinance summary for publication.
4c. Adopt Resolution No. 18-144 authorizing the special assessment for the repair of
the sewer service line at 6520 Minnetonka Boulevard, St. Louis Park, MN. P.I.D.
08-117-21-44-0177.
4d. Adopt Resolution No. 18-145 authorizing the special assessment for the repair of
the sewer service line at 3148 Salem Avenue South, St. Louis Park, MN. P.I.D. 06-
028-24-22-0028.
4e
i. Adopt Resolution No. 18-146 setting the 2019 Special Service District No. 1
budget and property owner service charges and directing staff to certify the
annual service charges to Hennepin County.
ii. Adopt Resolution No. 18-147 setting the 2019 Special Service District No. 2
budget and property owner service charges and 10 -year extension and
directing staff to certify the annual service charges to Hennepin County.
iii. Adopt Resolution No. 18-148 setting the 2019 Special Service District No. 3
budget and property owner service charges and directing staff to certify the
annual service charges to Hennepin County.
iv. Adopt Resolution No. 18-149 setting the 2019 Special Service District No. 4
budget and property owner service charges and directing staff to certify the
annual service charges to Hennepin County.
v. Adopt Resolution No. 18-150 setting the 2019 Special Service District No. 5
budget and property owner service charges and directing staff to certify the
annual service charges to Hennepin County.
City Council Meeting -3- October 1, 2018
vi. Adopt Resolution No. 18-151 setting the 2019 Special Service District No.
budget and property owner service charges and directing staff to certify the
annual service charges to Hennepin County.
4f. Adopt Resolution No. 18-152 authorizing a minor amendment to the Knollwood
Village Special Permit to modify the building elevations.
4g. Adopt Resolution No. 18-153 approving acceptance of a $2,000 donation from
Arlene B. Jackson for the purchase and installation of a memorial bench in Wolfe
Park honoring Richard, Arlene, Teddy and Lily.
4h. Adopt Resolution No. 18-154 approving acceptance of a $100 donation from St.
Louis Park Golden Kiwanis for the 37th annual Halloween party at Westwood
Hills Nature Center.
4i. Adopt Resolution No. 18-155 approving acceptance of a $300 donation from
Plus Relocation Services, LLC for the purchase and installation of a
commemorative Ginkgo tree in Shelard Park honoring Plus Relocation Services,
LLC.
4j. Adopt Resolution No. 18-156 approving deferral of special assessment — 7316
22nd St. W. #109, St. Louis Park, MN 55426.
4k. Adopt Resolution No. 18-157 authorizing entering into a cooperative agreement
with Hennepin County, agreement no. PW 44-05-18, for the France Avenue
pedestrian crossing at 38th Street — project no. 4017-2000.
41. Authorize execution of a professional services contract with SRF Consulting
Group, Inc. in the amount of $263,529 for the preliminary and final design of the
Monterey Drive rehabilitation project no. 4020-1101.
4m. Approve appointment of Mary Solberg and Lt. Bryan Kruelle as primary and
secondary representatives from the police department to the Metropolitan
Emergency Services Board (MESB), 9-1-1 Technical Operations Committee (TOC).
4n. Adopt Resolution No. 18-158 appointing election judges for the November 6,
2018 State General Election.
It was moved by Councilmember Mavity, seconded by Councilmember Brousen, 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.
5. Boards and commissions
5a. Appointment of representatives to boards and commissions.
It was moved by Councilmember Harris, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to
appoint Hannah Ampe to the Environmental and Sustainability Commission (ESC) and
Zechariye Issac to the Police Advisory Commission (PAC) for the term ending on May 31,
2021.
The motion passed 7-0.
City Council Meeting -4- October 1, 2018
6. Public hearings
6a. Cedar Lake Road Improvement Project No. 4019-1100.
Mr. Shamla presented the staff report. He stated the proposed road improvements on
Cedar Lake Road are between Kentucky Ave and Quentin Ave. The area is classified as
an Urban Minor Arterial and is designated as a Municipal State Aid road which makes it
eligible for state funding. He noted in order to quality for funding, the road needs to be
constructed to state aid standards. Mr. Shamla noted the estimated costs for the project
are $8,607,391, and the project is included in the Capital Improvement Plan for 2019.
Councilmember Brausen stated this project is in Ward 4, and encouraged residents to
contact him and share their thoughts prior to the October 15th meeting, where final
action will take place.
Mayor Spano asked if LED street light replacements were included in both options being
considered. Mr. Shamla stated yes, both poles and lights.
Mayor Spano opened the public hearing.
John Lange, 6610 Cedar Lake Rd., stated he has lived on Cedar Lake Road since 1979,
and sees two problems. He stated the road needs repair and the water issues should
have been repaired before. He is against losing parking, and added there are not very
many bikes on the road, with the exception of Saturday and Sunday mornings. He added
he doesn't understand why bike lanes are needed at all and tried to find out from staff if
a bike study was conducted, but could not get a straight answer. He added bike lanes
are only needed during rush hour, and sidewalks and new sewers are needed badly. He
is not in favor of a roundabout at Zarthan, and feels it is a waste of money. He added if
one is put in at Zarthan, there should be another roundabout then also at Park Place.
Joseph Strothman, 2250 Ridge Drive, noted his questions had been answered.
Rich Meyer, 6300 Cedar Lake Rd., stated he has not parked on Cedar Lake Road for 20
years, and prefers option 2. He added there is no need to redo the whole street, adding
the stoplights should be kept, and no roundabouts are needed. He stated it is safer
there with the street light.
Dave Carlson, 7006 W. 23rd St., stated he is one block off Cedar Lake Road. He stated he
bikes all the time on the road, and is supportive of having a bike track. He is concerned
about safety with cars backing out of garages, and added the roundabout presents
problems for pedestrians and bikers. However, he is happy the city is doing this, and
hopes the west portion will be done soon also.
Elaine Mincy, 6712 Cedar Lake Rd., stated she has lived there for 67 years, and was
involved in the upgrade project 20 years ago. She does not see a need for bike lanes and
wants to have parking lanes in front of her home, as she has concerns about where she
will park. She added the roundabouts are not needed and the signals there are
City Council Meeting -5- October 1, 2018
sufficient. She asked why the city has so many signs, and if they have so much money,
why do they spend it all on signs. She asked what the green patches are on 28th Street.
Mr. Shamla stated they are conflict striping, which alerts drivers to bikes in the area, and
helps to create awareness.
Ms. Mincy presented a signed petition to staff about not wanting sidewalks or bike
lanes, noting the petition is in the staff packet.
Sue Mack, 5912 Cedar Lake Rd., stated she lives right where the roundabout will be, and
is encouraged by the plans being presented. She encouraged others to open their minds
to the project, and stated she strongly supports the roundabout. She stated engineering
has put much thought into the project and she likes where it's going, adding it is the
safest way. She appreciates the city trying to accommodate all.
Ron Hobson, 4156 Alabama Ave., noted the project will mean a lot to pedestrians and
bikers, but not to drivers.
Mayor Spano closed the public hearing.
Councilmember Mavity thanked everyone for their helpful and insightful suggestions,
which she stated will help the process.
Mayor Spano added specificity helps, and that everyone provided good helpful
feedback.
There was no action for the council to take on this project tonight. It will be considered
at the October 15, 2018, meeting.
6b. Lucky Cricket West End, LLC dba Lucky Cricket — on -sale intoxicating and on -
sale Sunday liquor license.
Ms. Carrillo Perez presented the staff report. She noted the location of the restaurant is
in the West End, and the police department conducted a full background investigation,
and nothing was discovered that would warrant denial of a license.
Mayor Spano opened the public hearing. No speakers were present. Mayor Spano
closed the public hearing.
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Miller, to
approve the application from Lucky Cricket West End, LLC dba Lucky Cricket for an on -
sale intoxicating and on -sale Sunday liquor license for the premises located at 1607 West
End Boulevard.
The motion passed 7-0.
Requests, petitions, and communications from the public— None
City Council Meeting -6- October 1, 2018
8. Resolutions, ordinances, motions and discussion items
8a. Affordable housing trust fund ordinance.
Ms. Schnitker presented the staff report. She noted at the August 13, 2018 study
session, staff presented a draft affordable housing trust fund policy that identified the
fund objectives, funding resources and eligible uses of the funds. The council supported
establishing the trust fund and directed staff to draft an ordinance, and return to a
future city council meeting for the first reading of the ordinance. Tonight's meeting will
be to approve the first reading and set the second reading for October 15, 2018.
Councilmember Rog asked about the 10% administrative costs, and how staff came to
that figure, noting that ranges across the country are between 5 —15%. Ms. Schnitker
stated this is an estimated amount at this time, since no funds are actually in the trust
fund yet. She added this percentage will depend on how much staff time is needed to
administer the funds.
Councilmember Rog asked if there will be an advisory board or will the HRA be involved
in the process of administering funds. Ms. Schnitker stated staff had not intended on
setting up an advisory group, and noted they anticipated the council would provide an
advisory role, while looking at Vision 3.0 strategies. She added if council would like
another body to act as an advisory group, she suggested the HRA commission provide
that role, along with housing advocates also.
Councilmember Rog noted conversations she has had with STEP, and the idea of
incentivizing property owners not to file for evictions. Ms. Schnitker stated staff works
closely with STEP and have funded housing programs for them as well in the past.
Councilmember Mavity stated she is really excited about this, adding that intentionality
helps the city council focus on strategies and give greater direction in partnership with
developers. She asked several questions, and stated while the resolution is clear, she
wondered about the policy statement under the objectives, noting it seems inconsistent
as it relates to low-income folks and racial disparities.
Councilmember Mavity also noted concern with the use of the housing trust fund, and
that loans would be repaid. She stated she wanted to be sure there will be flexibility
here, with deferred loans and forgivable loans. Ms. Schnitker stated staff will look at the
language there.
Councilmember Mavity asked what Ms. Schnitker envisions the revenue will be that the
city raises for this. Ms. Schnitker stated the HRA levy will not be available until 2020, so
staff will need to look internally and possibly transfer funds or look for other resources
until the HRA levy will be available.
Councilmember Mavity asked how much can be raised from the HRA levy. Mr.
Harmening stated the projected amount is $1.2 million, and all or part of that could go
into the fund, depending on what council's decision is on this.
City Council Meeting -7- October 1, 2018
Councilmember Mavity stressed the idea of staff looking for state matching funds and
private funds. She stated the city will need a strategy to look at this, and decide how to
be intentional in soliciting contributions to the fund. She added the process for this will
also need to be part of the policy.
Councilmember Brausen stated he is supportive of this project, adding it is another tool
to address affordable housing and we need as many as we can get. He added there will
be additional affordable housing options to be reviewed in November, and the city will
continue to explore its options.
Councilmember Miller added he is happy this is moving forward, and thanked
Councilmember Rog for her lead on this and the whole council. He stated it is important
to find solutions and he is looking forward to discussions on the 4D Classification in
November, which will allow owners to keep properties affordable, with lower taxes. He
stated he will support this tonight.
Councilmember Harris stated this policy is of tremendous value to the community,
especially to those who live in NOAH properties, many of which are in Ward 3. She
added this will help folks stay in their homes and have pride in their communities,
noting she is also looking forward to the 4D Classification discussion.
Councilmember Hallfin stated he is definitely in favor of this, but noted, once again, the
city is attacking a symptom of a much larger issue --- that of people not being paid
enough money from their jobs, so they are not able to afford housing, and he feels the
council is attacking the wrong end of the situation.
Mayor Spano stated he will be supporting this. He stated he has spoken to many folks
who worry about paying their rent or mortgage payment, and also those who may lose
their section 8 vouchers, adding it is difficult. He added though, that the work St. Louis
Park has done on affordable housing is helping and the word is getting out, and this is
the next step in that important work. He thanked Ms. Schnitker and Ms. Olson for their
work on this.
It was moved by Councilmember Mavity, seconded by Councilmember Rog, to approve
the first reading of an ordinance amending the St. Louis Park code of ordinances relating
to the establishment of an affordable housing trust fund and set the second reading of
ordinance for October 15, 2018.
The motion passed 7-0.
8b. Call for public hearing — issuance of revenue bonds for PLACE's Via projects.
Resolution No. 18-159.
Mr. Simon presented the staff report. He noted PLACE submitted an application for
501(c)(3) private activity revenue bonds to finance its Via Sol project to be constructed
on the north side of the future Wooddale Station. Also, the housing allocation bonds are
able to be extended past the previous deadline of November 22, 2018, through
City Council Meeting -8- October 1, 2018
refunding and reissuance of those bonds. These bonds would be utilized to finance the
Via Luna housing component only, to be constructed on the south side of Wooddale
Station.
Mr. Simon stated the resolution calls for a public hearing to be held on November 5,
2018, for the issuance of 501(c)(3) tax exempt revenue bonds. He explained that calling
the public hearing does not obligate the city to issue any bonds, but simply allows the
legally required process to move forward. The council has the option of holding the
public hearing and taking no action, or canceling the public hearing. Mr. Simon stated
the council would be further updated at the October 8 study session.
It was moved by Councilmember Mavity, seconded by Councilmember Harris, to adopt
Resolution No. 18-159, calling for public hearing on November 5, 2018 regarding the
issuance of private activity revenue bonds and reissuance of housing allocation bonds to
finance PLACE'S Via Sol and Via Luna projects.
The motion passed 7-0.
8c. 2018-2020 Law Enforcement Labor Services (LELS) Local #218 Police Sergeants
Labor Agreement. Resolution No. 18-160.
Ms. Deno presented the staff report. She explained the details of the contract
agreement for 2018, 2019, and 2020. She stated sergeant wages have already achieved
the city's target of 85th percentile and the group has agreed to add language that
requires above average performance in order to move through the step progression.
She further noted this is consistent with the compensation philosophy that has been
applied to non-union staff and negotiated with patrol, dispatch, and Local 49 bargaining
groups.
It was moved by Councilmember Hallfin, seconded by Councilmember Miller, to adopt
Resolution No. 18-160, approving a labor agreement between the city and the sergeant
bargaining group, establishing terms and conditions of employment for three years,
from 1/1/18-12/31/20.
The motion passed 7-0.
8d. Westwood Hills Nature Center building project. Resolution No. 18-161.
Ms. Walsh presented the staff report. She noted the project's guiding principles,
including the zero energy renewable resources piece, seek to create the most energy
efficient building possible.
Councilmember Harris stated she is very excited to see the plans and their evolution,
noting as a student, she participated in the young naturalists' programs at the center.
She stated she is excited to give back now as a council member, and help to bring this
incredible project forward with many colleagues at the table.
City Council Meeting -9- October 1, 2018
Councilmember Rog asked what the financial payback would be in 50 years related to
the net zero energy, and what the cost savings is. Ms. Walsh stated since there have
been so many changes to the project, there is no new knowledge as to how many years
it would take to pay back all of the costs.
Councilmember Brausen stated he has supported the project since the beginning, and
believes the majority of citizens support it and are willing to take on the cost as well. He
noted it upgrades the community and adds much needed community spaces in partner
with nature, while providing opportunities to school children, and incorporating zero
energy practices. He added the climate action plan will be addressed with this project
and the self -guided tours are programmed to encourage the entire community to access
the facility. He is also excited about the water feature and the exhibits as well, and does
not see the project as cost prohibitive. Councilmember Brausen stated he appreciated
the bid alternatives, which are consistent with the goals of the project.
Councilmember Miller stated he will not support this step tonight, noting while he did
support this project early on, he has since come to understand the city's budget and
needs of the community, and feels he cannot support the $12.5 million project. He
added he still supports the nature center, and would like to see more moderate options.
He stated he would like to have more liquidity, and direct more of these funds to
affordable housing. He thanked all who have worked on the project.
Councilmember Rog stated she respects the architecture team, and the parks and rec
team, along with her colleagues. She added she supports construction of the new
nature center building and allocation of city funds; however, also takes issue with the
$12.5 million cost, adding she will also vote no tonight. She stated she is worried about
the costs when also looking at Connect the Park and Climate Action Plan, adding this
seems to be out of proportion. She also stated she has deep equity concerns with the
project and is also interested in a partnership with the school district.
Councilmember Hallfin stated he has had the pleasure of growing up using the nature
center even before there was a building there. He noted the building that exists now
was built shortsighted and this new building is being constructed with the long view in
mind, while taking energy into consideration. He stated this building will be available for
50 —100 years, and will be a good investment for the city. He stated he appreciates his
former park and rec commission colleagues and will support this project.
Mayor Spano also stated he will support the project, noting the nature center and area
have been a tremendous asset for many years. He noted the project meets school and
public needs, adding there will be significant costs related to the energy savings,
however the 2040 plan necessitates the city do this. He added using sun shield and rain
gardens are all part of the city's work on sustainability and the climate action plan.
Mayor Spano thanked the architects, city staff, and park and rec commission for their
work on this, noting that while many had different priorities, the project has landed in a
good place.
City Council Meeting -10- October 1, 2018
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Mavity, to adopt
Resolution No. 18-161, to approve plans and specifications and authorizing
advertisement for bids for building of the Westwood Hills Nature Center.
The motion passed 5-2 (Councilmembers Miller and Rog opposed).
Be. Conditional use permit — Westwood Hills Nature Center. Resolution No. 18-
162.
Ms. Kramer presented the staff report. She stated the park is zoned for park and open
space and that the site plans meet parking, landscaping, and tree replacement
requirements in the zoning code. She also noted a conditional use permit is required
when importing or exporting more than 400 cubic yards of soil. Ms. Kramer stated the
site design and plans meet all CUP requirements.
Councilmember Hallfin asked what happens to the material moved out of the area. Mr.
Harmening stated the contractor is responsible for moving it, reselling or stockpiling it,
noting staff's goal is to get it out of the community.
Councilmember Harris wanted to clarify that the city wanted a conditional use permit
for ourselves. Ms. Kramer stated yes, city projects go through the same process as
private development and from time to time staff will bring a project to council for
approval.
Mayor Spano stated the question and observation is a good reinforcement, as he does
receive questions about this.
It was moved by Councilmember Mavity, seconded by Councilmember Brausen, to adopt
Resolution No. 18-162, approving a conditional use permit for import/export of soils and
material related to a new interpretive center at 8300 Franklin Avenue with conditions
recommended by staff.
The motion passed 7-0.
8f. Approve cooperative agreement with Bassett Creek Watershed Management
Commission. Resolution No. 18-163.
Mr. Oestreich presented the staff report.. He stated the Basset Creek Watershed
Management Commission approached the city about adding an additional water feature
to the north of the new Westwood Hills Nature Center building. Mr. Oestreich noted the
water feature will provide water quality improvement by adding storm water runoff
storage, reducing runoff volume and sediments and nutrients in the water, through
infiltration, evaporation, or evapotranspiration. He also pointed out the water feature
will include educational benefits through signage, pedestrian bridges and interactive
pumps, and staff will develop an educational curriculum based on the bog and
hydrologic cycle featured in the water.
City Council Meeting -11- October 1, 2018
Councilmember Hallfin asked if the water feature currently near the old building will
stay in -tact and be used in programming. Mr. Oestreich stated yes it will stay, and will
be used mainly as an observation area.
Councilmember Rog asked if the total cost anticipated will be less than $405,000. Mr.
Oestreich stated the total cost will be exactly $405,000.
Councilmember Harris stated this will be a terrific feature and enhancement to the
nature center grounds especially since it will be a teaching tool. She asked who would
be able to utilize the programming. Mr. Oestreich stated the programming is currently
being targeted to 5th grade students, however will be later enhanced and developed
further for middle and high school students as well, to tell the story of sustainability and
water issues.
Councilmember Brausen thanked the Bassett Creek Watershed Management
Commission for this tremendous project, which is much appreciated.
Mayor Spano asked how the BCWMC will be recognized at the nature center for this
project. Mr. Oestreich stated there will be inside and outside signs recognizing the
group, and also a large introduction panel.
It was moved by Councilmember Brausen, seconded by Councilmember Harris, to adopt
Resolution No. 18-163, approving the cooperative agreement with the Bassett Creek
Watershed Management Commission (BCWMC) to add a water feature to the north of
the new Westwood Hills Nature Center facility and to accept up to $405,000
reimbursement from BCWMC for the project.
The motion passed 7-0.
9. Communications
Councilmember Rog noted a meeting related to Immigration and Families on Tuesday, October
9, 6:30 p.m., at Aquila School. She also noted a Community Education Advisory Council meeting
presentation on Thursday, October 11, at 6:30 p.m. The presentation will be on "Challenging
Races in the MN Nice Way," and will be held at the Rec Center in the banquet room.
Councilmember Rog pointed out a Friends of Arts event and open reception to be held on
Friday, October 12, 5-9 p.m., at 4811 Excelsior Blvd.
Councilmember Brausen proclaimed that St. Louis Park's newest citizen, his new grandson, Jack
Ashley Wilson, was born this evening at Methodist Hospital.
10. Adjournment
Theme 'ng journ d 9
Melissa Ke nedy, City Clerk