HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-01-2021 Council Work Session Minutes CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION
APPROVED
1 CITY OF LINO LAKES
2 MINUTES
3
4 DATE : November 1,2021
5 TIME STARTED : 6:00 p.m.
6 TIME ENDED : 9:55 p.m.
7 MEMBERS PRESENT : Council Member Stoesz,Lyden,Ruhland,
8 Cavegn and Mayor Rafferty
9 MEMBERS ABSENT : None
10 1. Recreation Center Update—Public Services Director DeGardner reviewed his
I 1 written report that included information on the following:
12 - Branding/Marketing concepts;
13 - Proposed membership rates;
14 - Fitness programming;
15 - Aquatics programming;
16 - Ongoing evaluation of existing building.
17
18 Mr. DeGardner also reviewed proposed next steps toward the goal of reopening the
19 center, including staffing needs and additions to City staff.
20
21 Marc Morgan, GameDay Sports, and Ryan DelWiche of WSB &Associates were present
22 to discuss development of marketing plans; both reviewed their background. There has
23 been much research and brainstorming within the marketing team; they are looking at the
24 many benefits the center could bring to the area. The group is announcing a theme that
25 they feel represents the uniqueness of the Lino Lakes' community and one that can grow
26 into the future—"The Rookery". The connection is the blue heron community which is
27 unique to this city. They have discussed who they are trying to reach now and in the
28 future and came to believe a key is to reach families, along with seniors and others; that
29 goals aligns with the idea of a rookery that includes young and old. There is also an
30 alignment with the water/land nature of the blue herons—the center offers both aquatic
31 and non-aquatic activities. They also suggested the possibility of membership fees tied
32 to a contribution back to the heron rookery. They also discussed the industrial area
33 adjacent to the interstate and how to tie that into plans; the industrial site (and future
34 residential)could utilize the facility. They would expect that activity rooms within the
35 facility could be named within the rookery theme (and decorating of the facility as well).
36 Other themes they discussed were"The Nest" or"The Link";they landed on The
37 Rookery as best.
38
39 Mayor Rafferty remarked that he likes the direction.
40
41 Councilmember Lyden explained his perspective. He was hoping for a WOW moment.
42 What he sees in the name is a good intellectual approach but moving toward the feeling
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43 end of things,he's not getting the connection. Mr. Morgan said he could see more
44 connection as they work toward logos and colors.
45
46 Councilmember Stoesz asked if there has been any investigation of the name and possible
47 other meanings. Mr. Morgan said they have done a cursory search.
48
49 Councilmember Ruhland remarked that in his real estate background, he hasn't typically
50 heard any reference to the rookery in connection with this area.
51
52 Councilmember Cavegn noted his concern that people may not make the connection with
53 the name easily. Mr. Morgan suggested that they are going for the super unique and that
54 means that people have to become familiar with it but it is special enough to merit that;
55 also he suggested that curiosity about the name could be a good thing.
56
57 Mr. Morgan and Mr. DelWiche added that the focus has really been toward the facility
58 serving this community and they feel the community generally has familiarity with the
59 herons. If the goal is to attract outside the community,then it's a different approach.
60
61 Director DeGardner remarked that he believes that a unique name should be a goal. It's
62 going to be more defined through website, colors and logos. The group bringing this
63 together feels The Rookery brings the best options for the future.
64
65 Councilmember Ruhland said he likes the name more as he thinks about it. He can see
66 how it can be a unique theme; it ties into the City's logo as well.
67
68 Councilmember Cavegn added that he sees the benefit of bringing in people from other
69 nearby communities.
70
71 Councilmember Stoesz asked if the name is copyrighted at all or should it be on the
72 City's behalf. Marketing staff said they would check further based on direction to
73 continue with it.
74
75 Mayor Rafferty remarked that he isn't disappointed with the work presented but he is
76 wondering if it wouldn't be appropriate to hear other options at this point. He also asked
77 if there are next step marketing concepts to discuss.
78
79 Director DeGardner remarked that staff has worked hard toward the possibility of
80 opening the center April 1, 2022, if directed by the council. There is timing involved in
81 that goal and based on the strong recommendation of the group bringing this forward,
82 they didn't feel options were warranted. The mayor thanked staff for that explanation.
83
84 There was general council concurrence to move forward. The council will be receiving
85 more options on logos, color palates, etc.
86
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87 After the marketing consultant presentation, Director DeGardner reviewed information on
88 a proposed membership rate structure. Rates are reduced from current market rates.
89 Councilmember Lyden remarked that the rates look attractive; he wonders if there could
90 be a virtual membership included. Councilmember Stoesz suggested offering a break for
91 auto payment. Councilmember Ruhland commented that with a school partner element,
92 perhaps think about cameras where parents could watch kids' events; he also wonders
93 about the possibility of twenty-four hour fitness availability. Councilmember Cavegn
94 asked about fees that are more ala carte to allow people to pay for their use.
95 Councilmember Lyden suggested some type of code of conduct that keeps the
96 environment appropriate; Mr. DeGardner noted that the current model requires
97 supervision under 14 years of age. Mr. DeGardner noted that they also plan for a senior
98 center component in the future.
99
100 Director DeGardner touched on plans to partner with a fitness provider(for
101 programming)for five years. They continue to work on a partnership with Centennial
102 School District on an aquatics program. Staff continues to evaluate the condition of the
103 facility as well. Staff is requesting support to proceed with work to open the recreation
104 on a target date of April 1. He noted the staff hiring and organizational changes that
105 would be involved.
106
107 Councilmember Cavegn said he favors opening the facility but has concern about the
108 large financial commitment without more information(on partners for instance).
109
110 Councilmember Ruhland remarked that he heard about the financials from ISG
111 consultants and understands the needs at the onset of the project.
112
113 Administrator Cotton added, regarding the fitness provider, there is a term sheet in place
114 and staff expects to be coming to the council very soon with a memorandum of
115 understanding and details. Staff is working off the analysis and trying to move to what is
116 needed to meet an opening goal.
117
118 Councilmember Cavegn asked about partners for aquatics and recreation. Director
119 DeGardner remarked that those are actually the best revenue producers so the City may be
120 best off keeping them. Councilmember Cavegn remarked that the hybrid plan called for
121 partnerships. Administrator Cotton added running the recreation center was always
122 going to be a City responsibility;partners were planned only for aquatics and fitness. Mr.
123 DeGardner noted that the Centennial aquatics program is actually smaller than
124 anticipated.
125
126 Councilmember Ruhland remarked that the council must have some trust in staff s work
127 and staff is obviously working very diligently on the project.
128
129 Director DeGardner added that, if the project goes forward, staff is recommending that
130 the council receive updates (and potential requests for action) each meeting(three times
131 per month).
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132
133 Councilmember Lyden thanked staff for making a commitment to an opening date and
134 noted that the selection of the right facility director is crucial. He supports moving
135 forward.
136
137 Councilmember Stoesz said he is one hundred percent in favor of moving forward. It's
138 an opportunity to have the building in place and offer the services; it would cost more to
139 start from the ground up.
140
141 Mr. DeGardner added that another opportunity is the availability of ARP (American
142 Rescue Plan) funds. He remarked that he hopes each councilmember will approach him
143 for additional details to ensure that they are completely comfortable.
144 2. Main & Lake Drive Redevelopment—Community Development Director
145 Grochala introduced Greg Anderson (Anderson Companies). Staff has had ongoing
146 conversations with the Carpenter family and the City has already bought their property at
147 77th; the family also own property at Lake and Main. They are interested in selling and
148 are working with the City on what is allowed/planned; it is guided for multi-
149 family/commercial. Another landowner in the area is interested in joining on a
150 development. Staff has subsequently talked with the Anderson Companies about their
151 interest in developing;they want to talk about mutual goals and possible scope.
152
153 Greg Anderson of Anderson Companies, Rod Bader of Bader Development and Mike
154 Waldo of Ron Clark Construction and Design, noted their respective backgrounds and
155 experience in development. Mr. Anderson noted his discussions with property owners
156 and his vision of developing housing and medical. They are interested in hearing the
157 council's view especially in the area of density. They would like to learn about the
158 council's goals for the property.
159 Councilmember Lyden asked what the developer sees as a breakdown of use. Mr.
160 Anderson mentioned 300+housing units (market rate and senior), 20,000-30,000 sf
161 commercial space (medical?)and a home for the current Tavern on Main.
162 The Mayor asked about the designation of the area as "signature gateway" even though
163 it's not right at the border of the City. Staff explained other gateways that aren't
164 necessarily at the border.
165 Councilmember Cavegn remarked that,based on the location, he's favoring what he is
166 hearing. He noted that traffic is already a concern and would be more so with housing
167 development. The developer remarked that there would be growth in traffic control
168 points.
169 Councilmember Stoesz remarked that his goal for the city is to bring in jobs and a
170 medical element would be a good start. A developer remarked that there are 26,000 jobs
171 in senior care that are not filled just in this state and senior care facilities favor adjacent
172 housing to attract workers.
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173 Councilmember Ruhland asked about components envisioned and the developer
174 explained that they seethe initial stage of about 100+market rate homes. They are
175 looking at four stories for housing. They are looking forward as they consider possible
176 residents—younger people who want certain amenities—empty nesters who are renting
177 by choice—30 somethings who come from outstate—and younger people who wish to
178 come back to the community where they grew up. The property is envisioned as
179 intergenerational. The developers also noted that there could be soil challenges where
180 the car lot has existed for many years; fortunately they have experience with super fund
181 sites.
182 Councilmember Lyden asked about having a four story building and how that can be
183 buffered from neighbors. Developer noted that the site provides for good buffering in
184 space and wooded area.
185 Councilmember Stoesz remarked that he's seen some developments with tunnels to allow
186 access to multiple buildings. The developer noted the walkability of the area and the
187 positive culture that getting out in the neighborhood provides.
188 The developers explained the concept further. They added that they would envision
189 buildings with no more than 160 units. The mayor asked about the combination of
190 residential and retail on the bottom;the developers noted situations where that has not
191 been successful.
192 Councilmember Cavegn asked for public safety comments. Public Safety Director
193 Swenson said he expects there will be a review period for his department with more
194 details. Director Swenson added that there has been good experience with good
195 management so he knows that is key.
196 Community Development Director Grochala spoke on the issue of available utilities,
197 noting that the site has access to trunk lines for water and sewer. He also discussed
198 comprehensive plan guidance in the area of density; it does allow options for the council
199 to consider increases. Mr. Grochala remarked that staff wanted the council to hear about
200 this concept early rather than later; he is hoping to set up a joint meeting of the council
201 and advisory boards to hear about this proposal.
202 Councilmember Lyden remarked that the City is excited about the 49/J development and
203 that is a community gateway project. He hopes this can be the same; he wonders about
204 having a sign or something significant to indicate the gateway.
205 The council concurred with the concept of a joint meeting to review information on this
206 redevelopment idea.
207 3. Lake Amelia Woods Preliminary Plat—City Planner Larsen reviewed a
208 presentation that included information on the following:
209
210 - Land use application to subdivide two existing parcels into four rural lots to
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211 construct four new single family homes;
212 - Site location and aerial map;
213 -Zoning and density analysis;
214 -Preliminary Plat;
215 -Zoning requirements (specific);
216 - Stormwater management plan requirements;
217 - Sanitary sewer and water(private for each lot);
218 -Public land dedication plans;
219 - Wetland considerations (involvement of Vadnais Lake Area Water Management
220 Organization);
221 - Shoreland management overlay implications;
222 -Advisory board review and comments;
223 - Staff findings of fact.
224
225 Councilmember Lyden asked if future upgrades to the interstate could impact this
226 development. Ms. Larsen explained there shouldn't be any impact due to adequate right
227 of way in place.
228 Mayor Rafferty remarked that this is an extreme change from a previous proposal and he
229 sees an opportunity for some fine homes there.
230 The council concurred that the matter would move to the council agenda.
231 4. Belland Farms-Associate Eye Care Partners Preliminary Plat& Site Plan
232 Review—City Planner Larsen reviewed a PowerPoint presentation that included
233 information on the following:
234
235 -Land use application by Rehbein Properties for two commercial lots;
236 -Aerial site map and site plan map;
237 -Zoning analysis;
238 -Preliminary plat map;
239 - Transportation analysis;
240 - Exterior renderings;
241 -Proposed drainage and stormwater information;
242 -Proposed water and sanitary information;
243 -Wetland review using map;
244 -Public land dedication data, necessary legal agreements;
245 -Review of advisory board consideration;
246 - Staff findings of fact.
247
248 Mayor Rafferty asked about the roadway system and the private road serving a nearby
249 restaurant; he would like more information on the impact of a change.
250
251 The council will consider the matter at the council meeting.
252
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253 5. Mn/DNR Water Appropriation Permit—Residential Irrigation Ban—
254 Community Development Director Grochala recalled information, as included in his staff
255 report, on certain legal actions relating to water use, levels, White Bear Lake and
256 surrounding communities. Regulations of the Minnesota Department of Natural
257 Resources (DNR) are part of the consideration. There was an appeal process undertaken
258 regarding certain orders and, after further court consideration, some requirements were
259 confirmed; an appeal process continues. Director Grochala noted that the City recently
260 received notification that the lake has fallen below the designated mark for instituting
261 certain restrictions/actions. The City has been asked to comply voluntarily and
262 recognizing the time of the year(end of irrigation season), staff feels the City is in good
263 shape in complying. The DNR will be attending a future work session to discuss the
264 matter. He added that there are also implications on new wells.
265 6. Rice Creek Watershed District Appointment—City Administrator Cotton
266 reviewed her written staff report. Staff is seeking council direction on this appointment
267 process. The City and council have received notice of vacancy of a manager position.
268 Individuals can submit their names to Anoka County for consideration. Scott Robinson,
269 Lino Lakes resident, has applied. Ms. Cotton reviewed the statutory process guiding
270 appointments. Some other cities will be nominating individuals and, considering the
271 process, she is recommending that the council approval a resolution joining in submitting
272 a list of nominees, helping to ensure that the City has representative on the board.
273
274 Councilmember Stoesz asked if there is compensation for these positions; Administrator
275 Cotton will provide that information. Councilmember Stoesz asked if it would be
276 appropriate to interview an applicant. Ms. Cotton suggested that the council has not done
277 so in the past and ultimately the appointing authority belongs with the Anoka County
278 Board.
279
280 Mayor Rafferty supported staff s recommendation with the understanding that the name
281 of Scott Robinson will be included. The council will consider the resolution at the
282 regular meeting.
283 7. 2022 Police Division Staffing—Public Safety Director Swenson explained that
284 there is information he'd like the council to have as well as make a request. There would
285 be a change in the budget related to his recommendation but no change to the preliminary
286 budget amount.
287
288 Director Swenson noted that the police division has been facing vacancies and has been
289 in a continual hiring cycle. The department is authorized at 28 sworn personnel and is
290 currently at 26. One sergeant is currently on light duty, one out on FMLA and three
291 officers are currently in the training program (finishing in December, January and spring).
292 He is proposing to delay the hiring of the 28ffi officer until July 2022 and using those
293 funds to hire a third Community Service Officer(CSO) and using savings to bring on a
294 retired officer part time to work on background checks. He explained that the CSO
295 program has been a good feeder program to hiring officers but there is some difficulty in
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296 aligning openings. Now the department has identified two good candidates for one CSO
297 opening and they have a strong candidate for police officer currently as CSO. On the
298 possibility of contracting for a background worker,the work needed would be specific to
299 police and fire candidates. He noted the challenge the department has faced in having
300 candidates hire onto other departments mainly because other background processes are
301 faster. The contract for services would pay$35 per hour with no benefits.
302
303 Director Swenson reviewed his request to delay the hiring of the 28th police officer,
304 authorize a third CSO position and allow contracting for background services.
305
306 Mayor Rafferty asked for more information on the contracted position; he asked how
307 much time usually goes into a background check. Director Swenson said the cost varies
308 but typically costs $1,000 to $2,000 per candidate; an investigation of outsourcing
309 indicated a bottom cost of$3,000 per background. Councilmember Cavegn asked if this
310 would be an intermittent position and Director Swenson said yes, it would be as needed.
311
312 The council concurred with the plan as presented.
313 8. Q3 2021 Public Safety Update—Director Swenson reviewed the data presented
314 in his written report. Director Swenson concluded with an update on staffing for both
315 police and fire division and review of event participation.
316 9. Council Updates on Boards/Commissions, City Council
317 Councilmember Cavegn reported on recent work at the Joint Law Enforcement Council.
318 They are looking at needs for protective fencing(in case of unrest situations) and the
319 possibility of sharing those resources (joint collaborative purchase). A subcommittee has
320 been formed to discuss further.
321
322 The meeting was adjourned at 9:55 p.m.
323
324 These minutes were considered, corrected and approved at the regular Council meeting held on
325 December 13, 2021.
326
327
328
329----
330 ne Bartell, City Jerk ob Rafferty, Mayor
331 (j
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