HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda Packets - 2008/03/03
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
CITY COUNCIL EXECUTIVE SESSION AGENDA
MOUNDS VIEW CITY HALL
Monday, March 3, 2008
6pm
Meeting to Review the Emergency Management Plan
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION AGENDA
MOUNDS VIEW CITY HALL
Monday, March 3, 2008
7:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL: Marty, Stigney, Flaherty, Hull, Mueller
PUBLIC COMMENT
Citizens may speak to issues not on tonight’s agenda. Before speaking, please give
your full name and address for the minutes. Also, please limit your comments to
three minutes.
Agenda Items Discussed by Consensus
_________ 1. A. Podium – Council Chambers.
B. Non-Linear Editing System
_________ 2. Presentation by the YMCA
_________ 3. Town Hall Meeting
A. Review the Town Hall Meeting Agenda
B. 2007 Citizenship Award
C. Volunteer Coach of the Year
_________ 4. Outdoor Event Policy Update
_________ 5. Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Fund Review
_________ 6. Red Oak Drive – Traffic Calming and Volume Reduction Activities
_________ 7. Noise Wall: Project Update / Easement Review, Noise Study Update
_________ 8. City Monument and Entry Signs
_________ 9. Discuss Potential Planning Study for Saturn/MultiTech Area
Next Work Session: Monday, April 7, 2008 at 7pm.
Next City Council Meeting: Monday, March 10, 2008 at 7pm
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
CITY COUNCIL EXECUTIVE SESSION AGENDA
MOUNDS VIEW CITY HALL
Monday, March 3, 2008
Immediately following the Work Session
Closed Executive Meeting to Discuss the Clerk/Administrator Employment Contract
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY MEETING AGENDA
MOUNDS VIEW CITY HALL
Monday, March 10, 2008
6:00 PM
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. ROLL CALL: President Marty, Vice President Stigney, Commissioner Flaherty,
Commissioner Hull, Commissioner Mueller
3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
4. PUBLIC INPUT:
Citizens may speak to issues not on tonight’s agenda. Before speaking, please give
your full name and address for the minutes. Also, please limit your comments to
three minutes and sign in on the sign-in sheet located on the podium.
5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
6. CONSENT AGENDA
7. EDA BUSINESS
8. REPORTS
9. NEXT EDA MEETING:
10. ADJOURNMENT
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
MOUNDS VIEW CITY HALL
Monday, March 10, 2008
7:00 p.m.
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL: Marty, Stigney, Flaherty, Hull, Mueller
4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
5. PUBLIC INPUT:
Citizens may speak to issues not on tonight’s agenda. Before speaking, please give
your full name and address for the minutes. Also, please limit your comments to
three minutes and sign in on the sign-in sheet located on the podium.
6. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS
7. COUNCIL BUSINESS
A. Resolution XXXX Awarding a Contract for the Purchase of an Emergency
Management Generator
B. Resolution 7229 Approving the Hire of Jim Ericson to the Position of City
Clerk/Administrator.
C. Resolution 7230 Authorizing the Advertisement for the Community Development
Director in the Community Development Department.
8. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Licenses for Approval
9. JUST AND CORRECT CLAIMS
10. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. January 28, 2008, Executive Session Meeting Minutes
B. February 9, 2008, Special City Council Meeting Minutes
C. February 11, 2008 Executive Session Meeting Minutes
D. February 20, 2008 Executive Session Meeting Minutes
11. REPORTS
A. Reports of Mayor and Council
B. Reports of Staff
C. Reports of City Attorney
12. Next Council Work Session:
Next Council Meeting:
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY MEETING AGENDA
MOUNDS VIEW CITY HALL
Monday, March 24, 2008
6:30 PM
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. ROLL CALL: President Marty, Vice President Stigney, Commissioner Flaherty,
Commissioner Hull, Commissioner Mueller
3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
4. PUBLIC INPUT:
Citizens may speak to issues not on tonight’s agenda. Before speaking, please give
your full name and address for the minutes. Also, please limit your comments to
three minutes and sign in on the sign-in sheet located on the podium.
5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
6. CONSENT AGENDA
7. EDA BUSINESS
8. REPORTS
9. NEXT EDA MEETING:
10. ADJOURNMENT
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
MOUNDS VIEW CITY HALL
Monday, March 24, 2008
7:00 p.m.
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL: Marty, Stigney, Flaherty, Hull, Mueller
4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
5. PUBLIC INPUT:
Citizens may speak to issues not on tonight’s agenda. Before speaking, please give
your full name and address for the minutes. Also, please limit your comments to
three minutes and sign in on the sign-in sheet located on the podium.
6. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS
7. COUNCIL BUSINESS
8. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Licenses for Approval
9. JUST AND CORRECT CLAIMS
10. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
11. REPORTS
A. Reports of Mayor and Council
B. Reports of Staff
C. Reports of City Attorney
12. Next Council Work Session:
Next Council Meeting:
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION AGENDA
MOUNDS VIEW CITY HALL
Monday, April 7, 2008
7:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL: Marty, Stigney, Flaherty, Hull, Mueller
PUBLIC COMMENT
Citizens may speak to issues not on tonight’s agenda. Before speaking, please give
your full name and address for the minutes. Also, please limit your comments to
three minutes.
Agenda Items Discussed by Consensus
________ 1. Annual Meeting with the Parks and Recreation and Forestry -
Commission
________ 2. Engineering Staffing Review
Next Work Session:
Next City Council Meeting:
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY MEETING AGENDA
MOUNDS VIEW CITY HALL
Monday, April 14, 2008
6:30 PM
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. ROLL CALL: President Marty, Vice President Stigney, Commissioner Flaherty,
Commissioner Hull, Commissioner Mueller
3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
4. PUBLIC INPUT:
Citizens may speak to issues not on tonight’s agenda. Before speaking, please give
your full name and address for the minutes. Also, please limit your comments to
three minutes and sign in on the sign-in sheet located on the podium.
5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
6. CONSENT AGENDA
7. EDA BUSINESS
8. REPORTS
9. NEXT EDA MEETING:
10. ADJOURNMENT
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
MOUNDS VIEW CITY HALL
Monday, April 14, 2008
7:00 p.m.
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL: Marty, Stigney, Flaherty, Hull, Mueller
4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
5. PUBLIC INPUT:
Citizens may speak to issues not on tonight’s agenda. Before speaking, please give
your full name and address for the minutes. Also, please limit your comments to
three minutes and sign in on the sign-in sheet located on the podium.
6. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS
7. COUNCIL BUSINESS
8. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Licenses for Approval
9. JUST AND CORRECT CLAIMS
10. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
11. REPORTS
A. Reports of Mayor and Council
B. Reports of Staff
C. Reports of City Attorney
12. Next Council Work Session:
Next Council Meeting:
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY MEETING AGENDA
MOUNDS VIEW CITY HALL
Monday, April 28, 2008
6:30 PM
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. ROLL CALL: President Marty, Vice President Stigney, Commissioner Flaherty,
Commissioner Hull, Commissioner Mueller
3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
4. PUBLIC INPUT:
Citizens may speak to issues not on tonight’s agenda. Before speaking, please give
your full name and address for the minutes. Also, please limit your comments to
three minutes and sign in on the sign-in sheet located on the podium.
5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
6. CONSENT AGENDA
7. EDA BUSINESS
8. REPORTS
9. NEXT EDA MEETING:
10. ADJOURNMENT
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
MOUNDS VIEW CITY HALL
Monday, April 28, 2008
7:00 p.m.
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL: Marty, Stigney, Flaherty, Hull, Mueller
4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
5. PUBLIC INPUT:
Citizens may speak to issues not on tonight’s agenda. Before speaking, please give
your full name and address for the minutes. Also, please limit your comments to
three minutes and sign in on the sign-in sheet located on the podium.
6. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS
A. Proclamation for SBM Fire Department (POC is Shannon at 763-786-4436)
7. COUNCIL BUSINESS
8. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Licenses for Approval
9. JUST AND CORRECT CLAIMS
10. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
11. REPORTS
A. Reports of Mayor and Council
B. Reports of Staff
C. Reports of City Attorney
12. Next Council Work Session:
Next Council Meeting:
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION AGENDA
MOUNDS VIEW CITY HALL
Monday, May 5, 2008
7:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL: Marty, Stigney, Flaherty, Hull, Mueller
PUBLIC COMMENT
Citizens may speak to issues not on tonight’s agenda. Before speaking, please give
your full name and address for the minutes. Also, please limit your comments to
three minutes.
Agenda Items Discussed by Consensus
________ 1. Ultimate Fighting – Morit. Expires at end of month
Next Work Session:
Next City Council Meeting:
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY MEETING AGENDA
MOUNDS VIEW CITY HALL
Monday, May 12, 2008
6:30 PM
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. ROLL CALL: President Marty, Vice President Stigney, Commissioner Flaherty,
Commissioner Hull, Commissioner Mueller
3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
4. PUBLIC INPUT:
Citizens may speak to issues not on tonight’s agenda. Before speaking, please give
your full name and address for the minutes. Also, please limit your comments to
three minutes and sign in on the sign-in sheet located on the podium.
5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
6. CONSENT AGENDA
7. EDA BUSINESS
8. REPORTS
9. NEXT EDA MEETING:
10. ADJOURNMENT
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
MOUNDS VIEW CITY HALL
Monday, May 12, 2008
7:00 p.m.
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL: Marty, Stigney, Flaherty, Hull, Mueller
4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
5. PUBLIC INPUT:
Citizens may speak to issues not on tonight’s agenda. Before speaking, please give
your full name and address for the minutes. Also, please limit your comments to
three minutes and sign in on the sign-in sheet located on the podium.
6. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS
A. National Public Works Week Proclamation (Mayor Marty will read aloud)
7. COUNCIL BUSINESS
8. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Licenses for Approval
9. JUST AND CORRECT CLAIMS
10. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
11. REPORTS
A. Reports of Mayor and Council
B. Reports of Staff
C. Reports of City Attorney
12. Next Council Work Session:
Next Council Meeting:
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY MEETING AGENDA
MOUNDS VIEW CITY HALL
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
6:30 PM
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. ROLL CALL: President Marty, Vice President Stigney, Commissioner Flaherty,
Commissioner Hull, Commissioner Mueller
3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
4. PUBLIC INPUT:
Citizens may speak to issues not on tonight’s agenda. Before speaking, please give
your full name and address for the minutes. Also, please limit your comments to
three minutes and sign in on the sign-in sheet located on the podium.
5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
6. CONSENT AGENDA
7. EDA BUSINESS
8. REPORTS
9. NEXT EDA MEETING:
10. ADJOURNMENT
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
MOUNDS VIEW CITY HALL
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
7:00 p.m.
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL: Marty, Stigney, Flaherty, Hull, Mueller
4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
5. PUBLIC INPUT:
Citizens may speak to issues not on tonight’s agenda. Before speaking, please give
your full name and address for the minutes. Also, please limit your comments to
three minutes and sign in on the sign-in sheet located on the podium.
6. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS
7. COUNCIL BUSINESS
8. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Licenses for Approval
9. JUST AND CORRECT CLAIMS
10. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
11. REPORTS
A. Reports of Mayor and Council
B. Reports of Staff
C. Reports of City Attorney
12. Next Council Work Session:
Next Council Meeting:
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION AGENDA
MOUNDS VIEW CITY HALL
Monday, June 2, 2008
7:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL: Marty, Stigney, Flaherty, Hull, Mueller
PUBLIC COMMENT
Citizens may speak to issues not on tonight’s agenda. Before speaking, please give
your full name and address for the minutes. Also, please limit your comments to
three minutes.
Agenda Items Discussed by Consensus
________ 1.
Next Work Session:
Next City Council Meeting:
Items for Future Consideration
IFC List
• Review Accessory Structure Ordinance and Residential Design Control Guidelines
• Sept Work Session: Report to the City Council re: Community Charities of MN charitable
contributions to the City Council
• Review Chapter 1009 of the City Code Pertaining to Swimming Pools
• Renaming of County Rd 10
• Review Policy for Citizen Agenda Items
• May 2008 Ultimate Fighting Update
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION AGENDA
MOUNDS VIEW CITY HALL
Monday, March 3, 2008
7:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL: Marty, Stigney, Flaherty, Hull, Mueller
PUBLIC COMMENT
Citizens may speak to issues not on tonight’s agenda. Before speaking, please give
your full name and address for the minutes. Also, please limit your comments to
three minutes.
Agenda Items Discussed by Consensus
_________ 1. A. Podium – Council Chambers.
B. Non-Linear Editing System
_________ 2. Presentation by the YMCA
_________ 3. Town Hall Meeting
A. Review the Town Hall Meeting Agenda
B. 2007 Citizenship Award
C. Volunteer Coach of the Year
_________ 4. Outdoor Event Policy Update
_________ 5. Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Fund Review
_________ 6. Red Oak Drive – Traffic Calming and Volume Reduction Activities
_________ 7. Noise Wall: Project Update / Easement Review, Noise Study Update
_________ 8. City Monument and Entry Signs
_________ 9. Discuss Potential Planning Study for Saturn/MultiTech Area
Next Work Session: Monday, April 7, 2008 at 7pm.
Next City Council Meeting: Monday, March 10, 2008 at 7pm
Multi-Purpose Lectern
Source of information: K-Log web site, http://www.k-log.com/products/index.htm
• Solid oak and oak veneers with lacquered “medium oak” or “mahogany” finish.
• 3 locking doors for equipment access.
• Locking slide-out top reveals laptop area.
• Interior storage area with two adjustable shelves.
• Wire grommet pass-through on each shelf.
• Optional fold-down side shelf, 16"W x 20"D
• Overall: 28"W x 21"D x 38"H with 3"H, 3-sided rail. 119 pounds
• 3" casters (2 locking).
• Ships ready to assemble.
Finish Colors: Mahogany, Medium Oak
Item Description Price
MLCT-75 MULTI-PURPOSE LECTERN. Specify Laminate choice.
Wt: 119 lbs / List Price: $636.00 1/ $423.00
3/ $413.00
MLCT-SS OPTIONAL SIDE SHELF. Specify Laminate choice.
Wt: 10 lbs / List Price: $66.00 1/ $48.00
Item No. 1A
Meeting Date: March 3, 2008
Type of Business: WK
WK: Work Session; PH: Public Hearing;
CA: Consent Agenda; CB: Council Business City Administrator Review: ____
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Vanessa Van Alstine, Cable Television Coordinator
Item Title/Subject: Podium - Council Chambers
Date of Report: February 28, 2008
The 2008 cable budget includes $2000 in the Capital Equipment fund (Account #210 –
4350 – 7030) for the purchase of a podium and other council chamber improvements. Staff
has been requested to investigate a replacement for the current podium, which is in poor
repair and does not meet the needs of the City. There are a wide variety of options
available for the podium and other infrastructure to support presentation technology. This
report outlines some of these considerations.
Background Information
The current podium does not meet the needs of staff or residents in presenting information
in the Council Chamber. The sloped top causes distortion in the appearance of documents
through the ceiling-mounted document camera. The small surface area means that larger-
sized documents are hard to arrange for the document camera and staff often must juggle
paperwork and reports. The broken microphone stand has been temporarily replaced with
a PZM microphone, which is not-well suited for the application and is often covered by
paperwork being moved on the podium, resulting in muffled voices and/or loud noises from
paper rustling. The lack of casters makes it more difficult to position in the room, and the
resulting handling may have contributed to the current state of poor repair. At least one
trim panel is missing and another is loose. The finish of the podium does not match the
woodwork or trim in the Chamber.
Prior to the remodeling of City Hall, the previous podium incorporated a large CRT
television monitor. This provided the ability to monitor meeting video coverage, but
resulted in a very bulky unit which was difficult to move to accommodate meetings at the
dais and at the tables. The old podium was dismantled during the City Hall renovation
process.
Item 1A
City Council Work Session
Page 2
Desired Functionality of Podium and Presentation Equipment
Staff has discussed how the podium, document camera, laptop, and projector are currently
used for city meetings and how they could ideally be employed to best serve the
communication and presentation needs of the City.
The minimum requirements of a podium included a sufficiently large surface to
accommodate reports and supporting information, a flat surface to hold documents up to
18” x 24” for the document camera, a built-in gooseneck microphone, storage for name
plates, and casters to facilitate moving the podium.
In addition to the minimum requirements, it would be desirable for the podium to have a
finish matching the materials in the Council Chamber. Staff desires the ability to control the
source appearing on the projector. These controls could be as simple as a three-position
set of buttons to select among video, laptop and document camera. The controls would
ideally be available both at the podium and from the dais.
Staff would like to be able to use the projector to display more meeting aids such as
PowerPoint presentations, photos, maps and GIS information, reports and documents.
Currently the projector is mainly used to provide visual feedback of meeting coverage, and
support items are only displayed briefly as part of the video coverage of the meeting. One
thought was to not show video of the meeting, but instead use the projector primarily to
display support items if available. Another solution would be to install a video monitor in
the Chamber to display the meeting video, freeing up the projector to be used for other
purposes. Likely locations for an addition monitor include ceiling-mounted close to the
lobby monitor and mounted on the new podium.
Staff also discussed the options for connecting cables to the podium. Depending on
equipment housed in the podium, there will need to be a microphone cable, VGA for a
computer (the laptop used from the podium), AC power for a television monitor, and RF
cable for the Channel 16 feed to a television monitor. Cables running across the floor can
be unsightly and present a tripping hazard. Selecting a wireless microphone would
eliminate the microphone cable, but AC power, RF cable, and VGA video are not wireless.
Outlet boxes and plates for the appropriate connections could be installed in the floor of
the Council Chamber, which would eliminate longer cable runs, remove the tripping hazard
and provide a neater appearance. There would be a cost to run the wiring and install
outlets. This option was apparently discussed and decided against at the time of the
renovation of City Hall. The consensus of staff was to continue to run wires across the floor
as needed.
Options for Podium
Off-theShelf
Several companies manufacture lecterns, podiums, and A/V carts with prices ranging from
a few hundred dollars to several thousands. Staff gathered information about available
products and sought feedback regarding functionality, appearance, and appropriateness
for City needs. The preference from other staff members likely to use the presentation
Item 1A
City Council Work Session
Page 3
equipment was for a lectern available from K-Log (see attachment). This product would
provide the large, flat upper surface needed for document camera items as well as staff
reports. It has storage for name plates and casters for easy movement. It does not have
pre-drilled holes for microphone attachment or potential projector controls, so modifications
would have to be made. The only available finishes are medium oak and mahogany, so
the appearance would not match the trim of the Council Chamber. The cost of this lectern
is $423, plus shipping.
Custom-Built
To match the finish in the Council Chamber, the podium would have to be custom-built.
Staff has information regarding the wood and stain used by Wilkie Sanderson in creating
the millwork for the Chamber, so a new podium could be made to match. This would offer
the opportunity to tailor the surface size and shape, storage areas, and other features of
the podium to best serve the City’s needs. Cutouts for the microphone and other control
surfaces would be included in the specification and incorporated more professionally than
by modifying a pre-fabricated unit.
Option: Video Monitor
Adding a television monitor to the Chamber would allow participants to monitor the video of
meeting coverage while freeing up the projector for other uses. The video signal shown on
the projector comes from the signal sent to the hard drive recorder, and is not an accurate
indication of the signal seen by viewers at home. The best way to tell if there are
equipment issues that would interfere with meeting coverage is by watching the cable
signal on Channel 16. That signal reflects the quality of the signal path from City Hall, CTV,
and Comcast.
The price of LCD widescreen panels have been coming down. A 28” to 32” monitor is
available for under $800. Locating a monitor in the corner of the Control Room near the
existing lobby monitor would give easy access to AC power and RF cables.
A smaller monitor could be mounted on the front of the podium, giving similar functionality
to the previous podium, but with much lighter weight and maneuverability. One concern
with this arrangement is protection for the monitor surface from being damaged as the
podium is moved.
Option: Projector Controls
The projector is currently controlled by a Crestron touchpad interface from the Control
Room. Staff expressed desire for additional control locations in the Chamber, at the
podium and at one position at the dais. Any solution added would need to be compatible
with the existing Crestron equipment.
An initial estimate from Ian Cobb of CTV, who is familiar with these systems and their
requirements, was approximately $2000 to $6500. In either case, additional cable would
need to be pulled between the Chamber and the Control Room. At the low end, simple
button panels that would permit changing the signal displayed on the projector start around
$250 each, with two needed for controls at both additional locations. More complicated
control surfaces would allow additional control of specific functions. For example, the
Item 1A
City Council Work Session
Page 4
document camera can have zoom, focus, iris, and white balance remotely controlled. The
person presenting information would be able to make their own adjustments to the
appearance of information on the projector. Currently, presenters need to verbally request
any changes so the technician in the Control Room can operate the equipment controls.
This verbal exchange can be distracting to the flow of the meeting to participants, and the
video technician is also running all of the video and audio systems in addition to the
presentation controls.
In addition to meetings of the City Council, Commissions, and Committees, other groups
use the Council Chamber as a meeting space for non-televised meetings. Having control
surfaces located in the Council Chamber would facilitate presentations when there is not a
video technician available.
Recommendation:
Staff is looking for direction from Council regarding the new podium and other
improvements:
• Is an off-the-shelf product acceptable?
• Should a podium be custom-built to match the finish in the Chamber?
• Should an addition television monitor be installed?
• If so, as part of the podium or ceiling-mounted?
• Is there support for installation of additional controls for the projector?
• Are there other considerations not yet mentioned?
Respectfully Submitted,
Vanessa Van Alstine
Cable Television Coordinator
Item No. 1B
Meeting Date: March 3, 2008
Type of Business: WK
WK: Work Session; PH: Public Hearing;
CA: Consent Agenda; CB: Council Business City Administrator Review: ____
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Vanessa Van Alstine, Cable Television Coordinator
Item Title/Subject: Cable TV Equipment – Non-Linear Editing System
Date of Report: February 28, 2008
Computer Upgraded as Anticipated
The need for a non-linear editing system was brought to the Council at the November 5,
2007 Work Session. At that time staff requested the $8500 in the Capital Equipment fund
(Account #210 – 4350 – 7030) slated for this purchase be moved into the 2008 budget in
anticipation of major system upgrades from the computer manufacturer.
On January 8, 2008, Apple released the new Mac Pro computer based on the next
generation of Intel processors. The revised system has substantial performance
improvements over the previous version, including twice the processing cores and power,
faster system bus, Bluetooth as a standard feature, faster RAM speeds, and high
performance video card options.
Staff monitored industry reviews and user forums to ensure that the new system was
stable. The Apple operating system, OS X 10.5 was updated to version 10.5.2 in part to
provide drivers for the new high-end video cards, which did not begin shipping until mid-
February. After an initial delay while vendors sourced product to meet the new
specifications, third-party RAM memory has become available for the updated computer
system. At this point, systems with similar configurations to the proposed are shipping,
have been reviewed, and have been positively received.
Update on Staff Costs/Inefficiencies
The costs associated with travelling to CTV to use their equipment continue to increase.
The IRS mileage reimbursement rate has increased from $0.485/mile in 2007 to
$0.505/mile in 2008. The estimated cost of staff time, included benefits, has risen from
$26.09/hour to $27.28/hour. The previous report, dated November 1, 2007, outlined a
scenario with maximal use of CTV edit equipment resulting in 1560 miles of travel, 104
hours of staff overhead associated with travelling to CTV, and another 180 hours in lost
productivity due to computer-intensive tasks such as capturing tape and rendering video.
The estimated overhead in using CTV equipment was approximately $8166/year with 2007
Item 1B
City Council Work Session
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2
figures. Updated with the revised staff cost and mileage reimbursement values, this figure
rises to $8535/year. The specified computer system cost is $7455, which means that in
less than 11 months, the cost savings would cover the purchase price of the proposed
system.
During the months of December, January, and February, staff has made maximal use of
the editing resources at CTV, making 30 trips for the purpose of editing. CTV policies
permit edit suite reservations up to eight hours per week. As available, two edit suites were
used concurrently, one for actively editing and the second to process background tasks
such as capturing tapes or burning DVDs. The editing load is expected to increase due to
the additional work required for the 50th Anniversary documentary and the normal
programs produced with the Cable Committee.
Recommended System Configuration
Apple Final Cut Studio 2, consisting of:
• Final Cut Pro 6 video editing
• Motion 3 motion graphics
• Soundtrack Pro 2 audio editing
• Color color correction
• Compressor 3 video compression and conversion
• DVD Studio Pro 4 DVD authoring
In the past, Final Cut Pro was available as a stand-alone software package. Apple now
sells the software only as part of the bundled Studio.
Final Cut Pro is recognized as an industry standard for video and film production. It is the
same software that is available for volunteer use at CTV.
Apple Mac Pro Computer:
1. Two 2.8GHz Quad-Core Intel Xeon processors (8-core system)
2. 16 GB RAM
3. 320 GB SATA 3Gbs Hard Drive for system and applications
4. (3) 750 GB SATA 3Gbs Hard Drives for video files and backups
5. 16x SuperDrive
6. NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GT 512MB (Two dual-link DVI) video card
7. Apple Keyboard
8. Apple Mighty Mouse
9. Apple OS X 10.5 “Leopard”
10. Apple iLife software – iPhoto, iDVD, iTunes, iMovieHD, Garage Band
Apple Cinema HD Display (30” flat panel)
2560-by-1600 pixel resolution LCD monitor
AppleCare Protection Plan
Extends warranty on computer and monitor to three years parts and labor.
Item 1B
City Council Work Session
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3
Digital Deck
The City of Mounds View already owns a Sony DSR-11 digital deck which is listed by
Apple as a qualified device for Final Cut Studio 2. The DSR-11 has a FireWire connection
which would allow it to be connected to the Mac Pro and used to capture videotape. It can
handle both the DVCAM format tape used by the city camcorder as well as the miniDV
format tape that is used with the CTV camcorders.
Bids
Include:
• Apple Final Cut Studio 2 software
• Mac Pro with two 2.8GHz Quad-Core Intel Xeon processors, 16 GB RAM, NVIDIA
GeForce 8800 GT 512MB (Two dual-link DVI) video card, one 320 GB hard drive, three
750 GB hard drives, 16x SuperDrive, Mac OS X 10.5 “Leopard”, Apple iLife software,
Apple Keyboard and Mighty Mouse, Accessory kit
• Apple Cinema HD Display (30” flat panel)
• AppleCare Protection Plan
• Sales (or Use) tax
• Shipping
Staff requested bids from local Apple resellers, major online sellers, as well as directly
from Apple through the government purchase program. Apple has a reputation for
charging much higher-than-market prices for accessories such as hard drives and RAM
memory, so staff specified a basic core system, then sought pricing from third-party
sources for hard drives and memory.
Basic computer system from Apple Government Store $6082.43
plus third-party hard drives (NewEgg.com) and RAM (OWC) $1372.10
TOTAL
$7454.53
Basic computer system from Exper.com $6678.62
plus third-party hard drives (NewEgg.com) and RAM (OWC) $1372.10
TOTAL
$8050.72
Basic computer system from MacMall.com $6695.76
plus third-party hard drives (NewEgg.com) and RAM (OWC) $1372.10
TOTAL
$8067.86
Basic computer system from Amazon.com $6710.96
plus third-party hard drives (NewEgg.com) and RAM (OWC) $1372.10
TOTAL
$8083.06
Complete system from FirstTech $8797.00
Basic computer system from Alpha Video $6535.42
plus third-party hard drives and RAM from Alpha Video $2561.33
TOTAL
$9095.11
Complete system from Apple Government Store $10,737.66
Complete system from Alpha Video $11,539.28
Complete system from Apple Retail Store $11,819.22
Item 1B
City Council Work Session
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The price on the core system though the Apple Government Store was approximately
$450 less than any other vendor. The most cost-effective way to purchase additional hard
drives and RAM were through third-party online stores, saving approximately $3280
compared to purchase through Apple.
The pricing on hard drives fluctuates among vendors, with typical pricing for 750 GB drives
ranging between $160-180. As sales and promotions come and go, it is likely at least one
appropriate model can be found for under $155. Staff will make the best purchase possible
at time of purchase, but requests sufficient flexibility in the allocation to deal with market
rates.
Recommendation
Staff seeks approval to purchase a Mac Pro computer system with monitor and editing
software as listed above from the Apple Government Store in the amount of $6082.43 as
well as funds not to exceed $1500.00 to purchase additional RAM and hard drives as
specified.
Respectfully Submitted,
Vanessa Van Alstine
Cable Television Coordinator
Summary of quotes for
Non-Linear Editing System
Compiled February 27, 2008
Apple Store - RetailApple Store - GovernmentAlpha VideoFirstTechExperCom.comMacMall.comAmazon.comCONFIGURATION 1 - dual 2.8GHz (8-core), 1x320GB HD, 2GB RAM, 1 SuperDrive, 8800 Graphics
MA886Z/A Final Cut Studio 2 $1,299.00 $1,078.20 $1,150.00 $1,250.00 $1,294.00 $1,198.99 $1,199.99
Mac Pro with:$2,999.00 $2,759.00 $2,995.00 $2,989.00 $2,994.00 $2,749.99
□ Two 2.8GHz Quad-Core Intel Xeon (8-core) processor standard standard
□ 2GB RAM (2 x 1GB)standard standard
□ (1) 320GB Serial ATA hard drive 7200 RPM, 3Gb/s standard standard
□ (1) 16x SuperDrive standard standard
□ Mac OS X - U.S. English standard standard
□ Apple Keyboard and Mighty Mouse - U.S. English standard standard
□ Accessory kit standard standard
□ NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GT 512MB (Two dual-link DVI) video card ($200 option)($184 option)$321.00
M9179LL/A Apple Cinema HD Display (30" flat panel)$1,799.00 $1,655.00 $1,795.00 $1,706.00 $1,799.00 $1,794.00 $1,799.99
MA516LL/A AppleCare Protection Plan for Mac Pro (w/or w/o Display)$249.00 $219.00 $195.00 $229.00 $189.00 $249.00 $249.99
Shipping $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $25.00 $0.00 $54.43 $0.00
Sales Tax (6.5%) (or Use Tax if Sales Tax not charged)$412.49 $371.23 $398.78 $422.42 $407.62 $405.34 $390.00
TOTAL $6,758.49 $6,082.43 $6,533.78 $6,535.42 $6,678.62 $6,695.76 $6,710.96
CONFIGURATION 2 - dual 2.8GHz (8-core), 1x320GB HD, 3x750GB HD, 16GB RAM, 1 SuperDrive, 8800 Graphics
MA886Z/A Final Cut Studio 2 $1,299.00 $1,078.20 $1,150.00 $1,250.00
Mac Pro with:$7,699.00 $7,083.00 $7,695.00 $2,903.00
□ Two 2.8GHz Quad-Core Intel Xeon (8-core) processor standard standard standard
□ 16GB RAM (8 x 2GB)$3500 option $3220 option $1,336.00
□ (1) 320GB Serial ATA hard drive 7200 RPM, 3Gb/s standard standard standard
□ (1) 750GB Serial ATA hard drive 7200 RPM, 3Gb/s $400 option $368 option $243.00
□ (1) 750GB Serial ATA hard drive 7200 RPM, 3Gb/s $400 option $368 option $243.00
□ (1) 750GB Serial ATA hard drive 7200 RPM, 3Gb/s $400 option $368 option $243.00
□ NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GT 512MB (Two dual-link DVI) video card $200 option $184 option included
□ (1) 16x SuperDrive standard standard standard
□ Mac OS X - U.S. English standard standard standard
□ Apple Keyboard and Mighty Mouse - U.S. English standard standard standard
□ Accessory kit standard standard standard
[configuration and testing]$49.00
M9179LL/A Apple Cinema HD Display (30" flat panel)$1,799.00 $1,655.00 $1,795.00 $1,706.00
MA516LL/A AppleCare Protection Plan for Mac Pro (w/or w/o Display)$249.00 $219.00 $195.00 $229.00
Shipping $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $25.00
Sales Tax $773.22 $702.46 $704.28 $570.00
TOTAL $11,819.22 $10,737.66 $11,539.28 $8,797.00
CONFIGURATION 2 (using 3rd-party HD & RAM ) - dual 2.8GHz (8-core), 1x320GB HD, 3x750GB HD, 16GB RAM, 1 SuperDrive, 8800 Graphics
Base: Configuration 1 with 3rd party sources for hard drives and memory $6,758.49 $6,082.43 $6,533.78 $6,535.42 $6,678.62 $6,695.76 $6,710.96
Hard Drives - NewEgg.com (sale price $139.99)Samsung F1 (NewEgg.com)Seagate 750 GB
□ (1) 750GB Serial ATA hard drive, Samsung Spinpoint F1 750GB Serial A $139.99 $139.99 $185.00 $139.99 $139.99 $139.99 $139.99
□ (1) 750GB Serial ATA hard drive, Samsung Spinpoint F1 750GB Serial A $139.99 $139.99 $185.00 $139.99 $139.99 $139.99 $139.99
□ (1) 750GB Serial ATA hard drive, Samsung Spinpoint F1 750GB Serial A $139.99 $139.99 $185.00 $139.99 $139.99 $139.99 $139.99
Subtotal $419.97 $419.97 $555.00 $419.97 $419.97 $419.97 $419.97
Sales (or Use) Tax $27.30 $27.30 see below $27.30 $27.30 $27.30 $27.30
Shipping (estimate)$0.00 $0.00 Installation $0.00 $0.00 $0.00 $0.00
Total, Hard Drives $447.27 $447.27 $90.00 $447.27 $447.27 $447.27 $447.27
Memory - OWC (eshop.macsales.com)OWC link OWC link Crucial 8x2GB RAM OWC link OWC link OWC link OWC link
16.0GB RAM (8x2GB Modules)$859.00 $859.00 $1,760.00 $859.00 $859.00 $859.00 $859.00
Sales (or use) Tax $55.84 $55.84 $156.33 $55.84 $55.84 $55.84 $55.84
Shipping (estimate)$10.00 $10.00 $10.00 $10.00 $10.00 $10.00
Total, Memory $924.84 $924.84 $924.84 $924.84 $924.84 $924.84
Total: Memory and Hard Drives $1,372.10 $1,372.10 $2,561.33 $1,372.10 $1,372.10 $1,372.10 $1,372.10
Total, Mac Config 1 + 3x750 GB + 16 GB RAM $8,130.59 $7,454.53 $9,095.11 $7,907.52 $8,050.72 $8,067.86 $8,083.06
Two Quad-Core
2.8GHz Intel Xeon
processors, 2GB
RAM, NVIDIA
8800GT W/512MB,
320GB HD, 16x
double-layer
SuperDrive, OS X
10.5 Leopard
MA970LL/A (Two 2.8GHz
Quad-Core Intel Xeon
Processors, 2 GB RAM,
320 GB Hard Drive, 16x
SuperDrive), ATI Radeon
HD 2600 XT 256MB
(Two dual-link DVI)
$2,903.00
APPLE MAC PRO 2.8
GHZ QUAD CORE,
INTEL XEON, 2GB RAM,
1 SUPERDRIVE, 1
320GB HARD, DRIVE,
NVIDIA GEFORCE 8800
GT, ACCESSORY KIT,
KEYBOARD AND
MOUSE
APPLE MAC PRO 2.8
GHZ QUAD CORE INTEL
XEON, 16GB RAM, 1
SUPERDRIVE, 1 320GB
HARD DRIVE, 3 750GB
HARD DRIVES, NVIDIA
GEFORCE 8800 GT,
ACCESSORY KIT,
KEYBOARD AND
MOUSE
Mac Pro 8-core
2.8GHz
2GB/320G/SuperD
rive/8800GT/BT
REVISED AS OF NOVEMBER 5, 2007 @950AM
Item No. 1B
Type of Business: WK
City Administrator Review: ____
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Vanessa Van Alstine, Cable Television Coordinator
Item Title/Subject: Cable TV Equipment – Non-Linear Editing System
Date of Report: November 1, 2007
The 2007 cable budget includes $8500 in the Capital Equipment fund (Account #210 –
4350 – 7030) slated for the purchase of a non-linear editing system. Based on the
anticipated increased demand for video production to better serve the residents of Mounds
View, staff would like to purchase a non-linear editing system.
Background Information
The following information regarding the need for and specification of a non-linear editing
system had already been prepared before becoming aware of the immanent computer
hardware updates.
History
According to a December 2002 Staff Report regarding a non-linear editing system, the
previous editing capacity at the City of Mounds View was a linear editing system dating
from 1997 consisting of a pair of SVHS video decks with an edit controller. While the decks
are still in service in the automation rack, the edit controller has been removed from
service, leaving the City without any present ability to edit video. Programming has been
created using the facilities of the North Suburban Access Corporation, also known as CTV.
Increased requests for video production
• The Cable Committee would like new episodes of Seniors on the Run, Mounds View
Today and Behind the Scenes created each month.
• CTV has provided grant funding to support production of a documentary on the 50th
Anniversary of Mounds View.
• The Parks and Recreation Commission requested a video to promote the City’s park
facilities.
• Public service announcements and short programs
• Instructional programs for residents, for example “how to apply for a variance.”
Item 1B
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Limitations of CTV equipment
• CTV’s policies permit only 8 hours of editing time per week, typically as two 4-hour
blocks, the equivalent of only 4 days per month. This will not be sufficient to support
editing the three ongoing programs along with the historical documentary and other
programs.
• The small hard drives make it difficult to keep the files for multiple programs. Their
model is to work on one program at a time. Staff expects the workflow to involve
balancing production between more ambitious, longer schedules such as the historical
documentary and shorter-term programs such as Seniors on the Run.
• The computer systems available in CTV’s edit suites are Power Mac G5s, which are
significantly lower performance than the current computer models. CTV has been
purchasing Power Mac systems for their production staff comparable to what has been
specified for Mound View, but replacement computers have not been provided for
volunteers using the edit suites.
• The DVD burners in CTV’s computers run at 2x speed compared to the 16x found in
current offerings. This means that backing up data and making copies of completed
programs takes eight times as long.
Staff Costs/Inefficiencies
Each 4-hour editing shift at CTV costs another hour by calling to make reservations,
driving to and from their facility, checking in, and waiting for staff to retrieve hard drives
from locked storage and open up the edit suite. Maximal utilization of CTV edit suites at
two 4 hour sessions/week would add another 104 hours of staff overhead (1 hour/session
x 2 sessions/week x 52 weeks/year) plus 1560 miles (15 miles round-trip x 2 trips/week x
52 weeks/year) in a year. The current hourly rate, including benefits, for the Cable
Television Coordinator is $26.09 and the IRS mileage reimbursement rate is $0.485/mile.
The annual cost of driving to CTV to edit is $2713.36 in wages and $756.60 in mileage, for
a total of $3469.96.
Many functions in the editing process completely tie up the computer’s resources.
• “Capturing a tape” is the process of transferring video from the videotape, where it was
shot, into the computer, where it can be edited. This process happens in real-time.
Each one hour tape requires one hour to capture. During this time, the computer
cannot be used for other purposes.
• Rendering video files is necessary when there are multiple layers of video, graphics,
and transitions. Time required for rendering ranges from a few seconds to 30 minutes,
depending on the complexity of the project.
• After editing is completed, a self-contained QuickTime file is exported. A one-hour
show might take 15 minutes to export.
• Completed programs are submitted for playback at CTV using a program called DV
Drop. The transfer time can be up to 20 minutes.
• Distribution of programs via DVD means creating a disc image. The QuickTime file is
brought into DVD authoring software, the menus are created, then the files needed for
Item 1B
City Council Work Session
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playback on stand-along DVD players are created. This process takes about 20-50
minutes.
Working at CTV means that for each of these computer intensive processes, the editor sits
around waiting for the computer to be available again. Having an edit station right at the
City of Mounds View means that during these times, the editor could be multi-tasking –
answering email or phone calls, working on the PC workstation, updating graphics on the
Compix PC. The wasted downtime at CTV becomes useful, productive time.
As an example of the time savings possible, take editing one episode of Seniors on the
Run. One hour of tape was shot on each of two cameras, meaning two hours of capturing.
Rendering took about 30 minutes, exporting the QuickTime file was 12 minutes, the
DVDrop transfer was 19.5 minutes, DVD creation 45 minutes, and burning three copies of
the DVD about 25 minutes each, for another 75 minutes. This makes a little more than 5
hours, costing $130.45 at the rate of $26.09/hour.
In addition to the productivity gains possible by having the editing system on site, it also
becomes possible to leave these processes running unattended overnight which is not
feasible in a public space like CTV.
Assuming three productions per month of a similar complexity to the Seniors on the Run
example, the lost productivity of editing at CTV adds up to $4696/year. Add in the cost of
getting there, $3470, for a total of $8166 and in less than 13 months the cost savings
would cover the purchase price of the system.
Continued Access to CTV Resources
CTV and Mounds View both are on the Metro iNet, and the common network allows us to
retain the benefits of their resources while having the advantages of our own editing
system.
• Ability to log into CTV file servers and use shared resources such as the Network
Music royalty-free music collection and Digital Juice video transition and elements
collection.
• Ability to digitally submit programs from Mounds View using DV Drop. The production
tracking form may be faxed in allowing programs to be submitted for playback from
their playback servers without a physical trip to CTV.
• Technical support through the 100 hours program.
Recommended Software
Apple Final Cut Studio 2, consisting of:
• Final Cut Pro 6 video editing
• Motion 3 motion graphics
• Soundtrack Pro 2 audio editing
• Color color correction
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• Compressor 3 video compression and conversion
• DVD Studio Pro 4 DVD authoring
In the past, Final Cut Pro was available as a stand-alone software package. Apple now
sells the software only as part of the bundled Studio.
Final Cut Pro is recognized as an industry standard for video and film production. It is the
same software that is available for volunteer use at CTV.
Recommended Equipment (note: this recommendation will certainly change
pending Apple’s anticipated new product announcements)
Apple Mac Pro Computer:
1. Two 3.0Ghz Dual-Core Intel Xenon Processor
2. 13 GB RAM
3. 250 GB SATA 3Gbs Hard Drive for system and applications
4. One-to-three 750 GB SATA 3Gbs Hard Drive for video files
5. 16x SuperDrive
6. ATI Radeon X1900 XT 512MB (2 x dual-link DVI) video card
7. Apple Keyboard
8. Apple Mighty Mouse
9. Apple OS X 10.5 “Leopard”
10. iLife – iPhoto, iDVD, iTunes, iMovieHD, Garage Band
Apple Cinema HD Display (30” flat panel)
2560-by-1600 pixel resolution LCD monitor
AppleCare Protection Plan
Extends warranty on computer and monitor to three years parts and labor.
Note: The specifications for the system came from the hardware requirements and
recommendations from Apple to run the Final Cut Studio 2 software along with input from
the Cable Committee.
Digital Deck
The City of Mounds View already owns a Sony DSR-11 digital deck which is listed by
Apple as a qualified device for Final Cut Studio 2. The DSR-11 has a FireWire connection
which would allow it to be connected to the Mac Pro and used to capture videotape. It can
handle both the DVCAM format tape used by the city camcorder as well as the miniDV
format tape that is used with the CTV camcorders.
Bids
Include:
• Apple Final Cut Studio 2 software
Item 1B
City Council Work Session
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• Mac Pro with two 3.0GHz Dual-Core Intel Xenon processor, 13 GB RAM, ATI Radeon
X1900XT 512MV (2 x dual-link DVI) video card, 16x SuperDrive, Mac OS X 10.5
“Leopard”, iLife software, Apple Keyboard and Mighty Mouse, Accessory kit
• Apple Cinema HD Display (30” flat panel)
• AppleCare Protection Plan
• Sales tax
• Shipping
Apple Store – Government, with
additional RAM from OWC and
additional hard drives from NewEgg
$8353.39
Apple Store – Government, with RAM
and hard drives from Apple
$11,170.40
Alpha Video, with additional RAM from
OWC
$9357.00
Digital Pictures $8777.55
FirstTech $9593.11
Anticipated computer system improvements suggest delaying purchase of system
It is anticipated that Apple will introduce new Mac Pro models based on the Intel Penryn
processor within the next one to eleven weeks. The current product has been on the
market since August 2006 and Apple has updated all of their other computer models more
recently than the Mac Pro series. Reports from industry websites expect that the new
models will include the new processor, new or updated motherboards to accommodate
faster bus speeds, newer models of graphic card, and possibly several other significant
design changes. The Apple Cinema Display monitors are also thought to be updated.
In the past Apple has offered replacement computer models with improved performance
specifications at price points similar to the existing lineup. The recommendation from the
industry discussion boards is to not purchase a Mac Pro suntil the new models are
introduced.
The funds for the non-linear editing system are not present in the 2008 budget. Due to the
anticipated major improvements to the computer system, and suggestions of waiting for
the new model, staff recommends that the City Council adjust the draft 2008 cable budget
to carry over the $8500 in the Capital Equipment fund (Account #210 – 4350 – 7030) from
2007 to 2008 to allow additional time to purchase a non-linear editing system that will
better suit the video production needs of the City of Mounds View.
Respectfully Submitted,
Vanessa Van Alstine
Cable Television Coordinator
Item No. 03 A-C
Type of Business: Work Session
Date: March 3, 2008
City Administrator Review _______ City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Desaree Crane, Assistant City Administrator
Item Title/Subject: Town Hall Meeting
A. Reviewing the Town Hall Meeting Agenda
The Mounds View 3rd Annual Town Hall Meeting is scheduled for Saturday, April 19, 2008.
Attached is a draft of the Town Hall Meeting Press Release along with the proposed Agenda. If
everything looks fine, the Staff will start the process of advertising on the Electronic Board,
Cable TV, the Mounds View Website, Mounds View Matters and the local newspapers. Please
review the Agenda and make any changes you feel necessary. The Town Hall Meeting will be
televised by CTV on April 19, 2009.
B. 2007 Citizenship Award Update
The City of Mounds View Citizenship Award recognizes ordinary citizens who have
demonstrated outstanding dedication to improving the community. Nominations have been
solicited from the public since the beginning of February. Deadline for receiving nominations is
Monday, March 3, 2008, at 430pm. Attached are two nominations for the Citizenship Award. If
more nominations are received before the deadline, Staff will submit those at this meeting.
Past recipients of this award include David Jahnke (2004), Frank Silvas (2005) and Ed Lanz
(2006). Nominations are open to the public and the award is subject to the following guidelines:
Eligibility
Nominations must be:
• A Mounds View resident, business owner or land owner.
• Recent elected officials, City employees, City contractors or political candidates are not
eligible.
Selection Criteria
1. Courage: Exemplifies courage and determination to follow one’s own values.
2. Initiative: Demonstrates drive and initiative in his/her approach and overcoming
challenges along the way.
3. Time Commitment: Volunteers a significant amount of time and energy to the
betterment of the City of Mounds View and its residents; more than just financial
contributions.
4. Effectiveness: Generates positive results for the community.
5. Unselfishness: Does not expect anything in return for his/her actions, i.e. financial
compensation, fame, or political notoriety.
The attached applications have been labeled Candidate A and Candidate B to allow for
discussion without mentioning specific names. The Mounds View Citizenship Award is
scheduled to be presented at the April 19, 2008, Town Hall Meeting. If the award recipient
cannot attend the Town Hall Meeting then the City Council my consider presenting the award at
a regular meeting. Based on the City Council’s recommendations, Staff will present a
Resolution for adoption at the March 10, 2008, Meeting and a plaque will be prepared for a
formal presentation at the annual Town Hall Meeting.
C. Volunteer Coach of the Year
The Parks and Recreation Commission has developed a Volunteer Coach of the Year Award
and has named it after Patrick “Homer” Holmes. The Commission has developed selection
criteria, criteria for eligible candidates, the process for approval, and a timeline for this award.
The Parks and Recreation Commission would like to present the 2007 Volunteer Coach of the
Year at the April 19, 2008, Town Hall Meeting, and have it awarded to Patrick Holmes. Either
Staff or the Parks and Recreation Commission will contact the Holmes Family about his event.
Below are the guidelines for future awards.
Selection Criteria:
Sportsmanship: Demonstrates exemplary sportsmanship both on and off the field
Leadership: Leads his or her team by showing leadership and attempting to instill leadership
skills in the players
Attitude: Happily expends a significant amount of time and energy to the betterment of the
sport
Encouragement: Consistently encourages participation by all and encourages others to do
their best.
Unselfishness: Does not expect anything in return for his or her actions; i.e. financial
compensation, fame, or political notoriety.
This award would be open to all coaches involved with coaching Mounds View youth.
The final recommendation would come through the Commission and forwarded for
approval by the City Council.
Eligible Candidates:
This award is open to all coaches involved with coaching Mounds View youth.
Schedule Template / Example:
Possible schedule for 2008 Award:
Include verbiage in the YMCA section of all Mounds View Matters editions regarding nominating
someone for the Volunteer Coach of the Year Award
Article in Mounds View Matters following the presentation of the award at the Town Hall Meeting
May / June / July Edition, 2008
Deadline for submitting nominations February 15, 2009
Commission reviews nominations February 26, 2009
Council approves recommendation March 9, 2009
2008 Award presented at Town Hall Meeting April 2009
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW PRESS RELEASE
There will be a Town Hall Meeting held on Saturday, April 19, 2008 at 9am to 12noon in the Mounds View
Community Center. The Mounds View Community Center is located at 5394 Edgewood Drive in Mounds
View. All Mounds View residents are invited to this great event. There will be Mounds View Historical
Displays, City Vehicle Displays, City Department Exhibits and the start of the Mounds View 50th
Anniversary Celebration. The City will also have seminars to discuss the Vision and Goals of our City for
2008. There are even activities for the kids at the Mounds View Community Center Gym. This is your
chance to ask questions of Mounds View City Staff to include the Mayor and Mounds View
Councilmembers. Below is a schedule of events. We hope to see you there!
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
TOWN HALL MEETING AGENDA
MOUNDS VIEW COMMUNITY CENTER
Saturday, April 19, 2008
9am – 12pm
9am – 930am Registration (Cookies and Coffee Served)
9am – 12pm City Exhibits
• Mounds View 50th Celebration – 50th Anniversary Cake Served!
• Charter Commission
• Community Development
• Finance
• Fire Department
• Mounds View Community Theatre
• Police Department
• Public Works/Park and Recreation
• Cable Committee
• Airport Advisory Committee
• Festival in the Park
• YMCA
• Children Activities at the Community Center Gym
10am – 12pm City Presentations
10am – 1030am Mayor City Address
1030a – 1045am Award Presentations
1045am – 11am Break
11am – 1130am Vision, Mission and Goals for 2008
Speaker: City Administrator
1130am – 12pm Final Thoughts and Questions
12pm Town Hall Meeting Adjourns
Item No. 04
Type of Business: Work Session
Date: March 3, 2008
City Administrator Review _______ City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Desaree Crane, Assistant City Administrator
Item Title/Subject: Outdoor Event Policy Update
On February 4, 2008, Work Session, Staff and the City Council presented a draft a policy for
special outdoor events. (Feb 4, 2008, Work Session staff report attached) Many businesses
have requested to hold special outdoor events to include Moe’s and The Mermaid. Staff was
directed by the City Council to come up with draft policy language that would address a parking
plan, security plan, clean up plan, placement of portable toilet facilities, entertainment or stage
locations, proof of Workers Compensation Insurance, Fire Inspection, and a requirement to
notify residents of the event.
Staff was further directed at the February Work Session to have the City Attorney draft an
opinion on:
1. Whether the City would be liable for damages in the event that injuries arose as a
result of the City’s emergency response to a special outdoor event?
2. Would the City be liable for damages arising out of the fact that it issued the
permit for the special outdoor event?
3. Could the City require a bond or some other type of financial guarantee?
Attached is the City Attorney memorandum from the City Attorney in regard to the Special
Outdoor Event Permit Policy as requested for your review.
Staff has also gathered some additional information from other cities that have adopted Special
Event Policies. (attached) The City of Spring Lake Park has an Indemnification clause in their
ordinance that states:
“The permit holder must agree to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the City,
its Council members, employees, officers, contractors and agents from and
against any and all liability. Claims, damages, costs, judgments or expenses,
including attorney fees, resulting directly or indirectly from any act or omission
arising out of, caused, by, or related to the conduct of the activities authorized by
the permit and such agreement will be part of the permit.”
The City of Edina also has an indemnification clause which is similar to the City of Spring
Lake Park.
Please review the materials provided. If the City Council would like to continue to
proceed with such a policy, then Staff would like to have a finalized policy before the City
Council on March 24, 2008.
Item No. 5
Meeting Date: March 3, 2008
Type of Business: WK
WK: Work Session; PH: Public Hearing;
CA: Consent Agenda; CB: Council Business
City Administrator Review _______
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Greg Lee, Director of Public Works
Item Title/Subject: Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Fund Review:
Impacts on Tax Increment Financing Funds
Background:
On January 9, 2006 the City Council approved Resolution 6716 authorizing the
preparation of a preliminary feasibility report and consultant selection for the
County Road 10 Trailway Project: Segments 1-5. This was for the trailway,
lighting, and landscaping for the segments on the north side between County
Road H and Red Oak Drive (Silver Lake Road).
On November 5, 2007 the City Council reviewed a draft feasibility report for the
County Road 10 Trailway Project: Segments 1-5.
The estimated total cost of trailway segments 1-5, as per original Capital
Improvement Program for the County Road 10 Corridor Improvement Program
was 1.1 million dollars. The current cost, based on the feasibility report, is 1.67
million dollars.
On November 13, 2007 the City Council discussed the feasibility report and
made a motion to refer this item back to a future Work Session for further
discussion.
The City has received a federal grant in the amount of $525,000 to finance a
portion of this project. These funds will be available in 2009.
Discussion:
The original Capital Improvement Program for the County Road 10 Corridor
Improvement Program was developed in April 2006. In August of 2006, the
Landscape and Architectural Element Plan was ordered and later approved in
October of 2006 for the corridor. This plan changed the scope of the overall
Corridor Improvement Program. Significantly impacted were the landscape
elements (aesthetics) of the plan.
The original costs for the elements associated with the County Road 10 Program
are attached as Exhibit A. These costs were updated in January of 2008 and are
attached as Exhibit B.
The City’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP) was recently updated (see Exhibit
C). It now includes the updated costs associated with the County Road 10
Corridor Improvement Program. It was also expanded to ten years instead of the
typical five year period to include the entire reconstruction phase of the Street
and Utility Improvement Program.
Tax Increment Finance Fund Review
There are two programs identified in the CIP that impact the funds in the City’s
Tax Increment Finance Fund (TIF Fund): the County Road 10 Corridor
Improvement Program and the Street and Utility Improvement Program.
The 2006 CIP had a total TIF Fund obligation of $7,441,000. With new cost
estimates for County Road 10 Corridor Improvement Program, this increased to
$9,288,000. However, the CIP was revised to exclude selected projects that rely
on TIF by moving them to a time frame beyond the CIP. These projects included:
trailway segments 7&8, median landscaping, and entrance monuments. This
reduced the estimated total TIF Fund obligations by $1,182,000 to a total of
$8,106.000. Attached as Exhibit D is the CIP for the County Road 10 projects.
On October 22, 2007, The City Council approved the Street and Utility
Improvement Plan. This plan called for the allocation of approximately
$9,000,000 in TIF to be allocated to this program. Based on this, in December of
2007, Ehlers and Associates, Inc. performed an evaluation of the City’s TIF
Funds (see Exhibit E). This document shows that, after considering current
obligations and those recently added due to the Street and Utility Improvement
Program, there remains only $3,400,000 in available TIF funds. It should also be
pointed out that, in addition to the County Road 10 Corridor Improvement
Program and the Street and Utility Improvement Program there are economic
development needs that the City may want to consider in terms of allocating TIF
Funds.
With an estimated TIF Fund need of $8,106.000 to complete items associated
with the County Road 10 Corridor Improvement Program, and considering other
economic development opportunities, the question is: How should unallocated
TIF funds be spent? – What are the City Council’s priorities in terms of County
Road 10 improvements? How much should TIF should be kept in reserve for
economic development opportunities?
As a starting point, Staff would like to introduce an option to keep $1,000,000 in
reserve for economic development and keep the remaining amount of
$2,400,000 to be used on higher priority items associated with the County Road
10 Corridor Improvement Program as set by the City Council.
Finishing the trailway and pedestrian lighting system throughout the corridor will
require an estimated $1,360, 000 in TIF funds - $753,000 for lighting and
$607,000 for trailway construction, grading, and drainage. This excludes trailway
segments 7&8 and excludes all landscaping and aesthetic elements. Benches
could be added if the City participated in the Ramsey County Bench Grant
Program at an additional estimated cost of $15,000.
Recommendation:
Staff is looking for direction on this matter. Specifically, Staff is looking for
Council direction regarding the use of the limited Tax Increment Finance (TIF)
Funds.
Respectfully Submitted,
Greg Lee, Director of Public Works
Tax Increment Finance Fund Review
County Road 10 Program - TIF Fund obligations
2006 CIP $7,441,000
2008 CIP $9,288,000
2008 CIP(revised) $8,106,000*
* Moved selected projects that rely on TIF beyond the time frame of the CIP.
Projects included trailway segment s 7&8, median landscaping, and entrance
monuments. This reduced the total TIF Fund obligations by $1,182,000.
Street and Utility Improvement Program - TIF Fund obligations
October 2007 $9,000,000
Available TIF Funds
$3,400,000
Item No. 6
Meeting Date: March 3, 2008
Type of Business: WK
WK: Work Session; PH: Public Hearing;
CA: Consent Agenda; CB: Council Business
City Administrator Review _______
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Greg Lee, Director of Public Works
Item Title/Subject: Red Oak Drive – Traffic Calming and Volume
Reduction Activities
Background:
When conducting the neighborhood meetings for the 2007/2008 Street and Utility
Improvement Project, one of the issues that was raised was the speed and
volume of traffic on Red Oak Drive.
Recognizing the need to address some basic traffic issues and questions in the
northwest area of the City, specifically associated with Red Oak Drive, Staff
collected traffic data. This data was included in a report that was presented to the
City Council on November 6, 2006 and later included in the feasibility report for
the 2007/2008 Street and Utility Improvement Project.
Discussion:
Based on this report, it was determined that two simple and relatively
inexpensive actions could be applied to Red oak Drive in an attempt to address
the speed issue (real or perceived) and the traffic volume issue.
Fog lines were added to Red Oak Drive last fall. These fog lines were white
painted lines located 11 feet from centerline on either side of the road. The
desired effect is to make Red Oak Drive visually appear to be narrower than it is
to drivers and, as a result, have travel them at a lower rate of speed. It is also
anticipated that concrete barrier curbs will compound this effect.
The other planned action for Red Oak Drive was to direct drivers that are
traveling southbound on Red Oak Drive, then turning left onto County Road 10,
to utilize Long Lake Road instead. To accomplish this, traffic signage is planned
to be installed on Long Lake Road and Red Oak Drive. There are three
directional signs to be installed on Long Lake Road. Two have been installed:
one at Red Oak Dive and other at Sherwood Drive. The third will be installed at
County Road I (see attached photos).
There is one sign planned to be installed on Red Oak Drive, just south of Long
Lake Road. This reads “Local Traffic Only” (see attached photo).
The intent is to determine the effectiveness of these actions on the speed and
the traffic volumes on Red Oak Drive by conducting another study in late spring /
early summer of 2008. If these actions do not achieve the desired effects, more
extreme measures could be explored as part of the reconstruction of Red Oak
Drive.
Recommendation:
Staff is looking for direction on this matter. Specifically, Staff is looking for
Council direction and input as to whether this is an acceptable approach to
address issues and concerns regarding traffic speed and volume on Red Oak
Drive.
Respectfully Submitted,
Greg Lee, Director of Public Works
Item No. 7
Meeting Date: March 3, 2008
Type of Business: WK
WK: Work Session; PH: Public Hearing;
CA: Consent Agenda; CB: Council Business
City Administrator Review _______
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Greg Lee, Director of Public Works
Item Title/Subject: Trunk Highway 10 Noise Wall Project Update
Background:
On Tuesday, February 12, 2008, Interim City Administrator Jim Ericson and
Public Works Director, Greg Lee attended a meeting with the Mn/DOT Project
Management Team for the Trunk Highway 10 Noise Wall Project.
The purpose of this meeting was to discuss construction design issues
associated with this project.
Discussion:
Proposed Wall
The project, as currently defined, is to extend the noise wall east along the south
side of Trunk Highway 10. The wall would be extended 864 feet. The typical
height of the wall is 15 feet. The last 72 feet of the existing wall will be removed.
The posts will be salvaged and reused at the far eastern end of the new wall,
where it will step down in height. Looking at the east end of the existing wall and
counting to the fifth panel that is stepped down, the top of this fifth step down
panel will be the elevation of the new wall. The new wall will start where the fifth
and sixth step down panels meet.
The current project schedule indicates a May 16, 2008 bid letting (contract
award). Construction will most probably commence in late June. The contractor
will access the site from Long Lake Road.
Alignment / Easements
The wall is proposed to be located just outside the existing chain link fence
except in one location where the wall will make a jog to the south to avoid a utility
junction box. The chain link fence is NOT located at the edge of Mn/DOT right-of-
way. The fence is actually located slightly on City property. Therefore, a portion
of the wall is proposed to be located on City property. There are several utilities
located north of the proposed wall, thus making it difficult and more expensive to
move the wall to the north and completely avoid City property. Because the wall
is proposed to be located slightly on City property, Mn/DOT is requesting the
execution of a temporary access agreement and eventually a permanent
easement. Attached is a copy of the June 4, 2007 Work Session report
pertaining to the status of the noise wall project.
Former City Administrator Kurt Ulrich and Public Works Director Greg Lee met
with Mn/DOT representatives on Thursday, May 31, 2007 (after the June 4, 2007
Work Session Reports were due). In an effort to provide the City Council
information regarding this meeting prior to discussion at the Work Session, Staff
created a memorandum to the City Council dated June 1, 2007 (see attached
memorandum). Options for the alignment of the wall were discussed at the June
4, 2007 Work Session along with the issue of granting an easement for areas
where the wall is not contained within Mn/DOT right-of-way.
A Zero Dollar Permit to Construct has been submitted to the City by Mn/DOT
(see attachment). This would allow Mn/DOT to construct the wall on the
proposed alignment. A copy of this permit has been submitted to the City’s legal
counsel for review and comment.
Noise Projections
In preparation for constructing the wall, Mn/DOT conducted a noise modeling
analysis for this area. This analysis indicated that the wall will provide effective
noise attenuation that will meet Federal daytime noise standards (65 decibels)
for the nearest seven receptors. Attached is a copy of the study results and map
of the area studied.
Mn/DOT Noise Abatement Program
In 2002, Mn/DOT conducted a sound evaluation study in the metro area – Noise
Abatement Priority Study. The purpose of this study was to develop a program
for implementing noise abatement techniques at various locations along state
jurisdiction roadways. There were approximately 277 sites evaluated. Of these
sites, the site associated with Trunk Highway 10 in Mounds View ranked 57.
Mn/DOT is updating the Noise Abatement Priority Study which will provide a new
ranking for Mounds View. The update of this study should be completed later this
spring / early summer.
Along with updating the study, Mn/DOT will be modifying the policies that go
along with the study. Drafts of the proposed policy modifications are attached.
Please take note of the third policy modification listed. If the LaPort neighborhood
area is included in the 10-year work plan (based on the new ranking), Mounds
View will have the opportunity to fund 100% of the cost of the wall at this time
and be reimbursed in the year for which the noise wall is programmed.
Moving the wall to the LaPort Neighborhood
As previously stated in a memorandum dated February 14, 2008, Staff did pose
the City Council’s request to construct the wall in the LaPort Neighborhood Area
in lieu of adding on to the east end of the existing wall. As per Federal law, when
Mn/DOT adds traffic volume capacity to their trunk system, noise attenuation
must be provided in areas that do not meet Federal daytime noise standards (65
decibels). This is the case in the Ardan Park Area. Mn/DOT added a third
eastbound lane, thus increasing capacity. Also, the noise levels in this area are
above the Federal daytime noise standard. Therefore, moving the wall to the
LaPort Neighborhood Area is not a legal option for Mn/DOT.
Recommendation:
Staff is looking for direction on this matter. Specifically, Staff is looking for
Council direction regarding the issuance of a Zero Dollar Permit to Mn/DOT and
eventually granting fee title and an easement to Mn/DOT for City property as
shown on the permit.
Respectfully Submitted,
Greg Lee, Director of Public Works
Item No. 2G
Meeting Date: June 4, 2007
Type of Business: WK
WK: Work Session; PH: Public Hearing;
CA: Consent Agenda; CB: Council Business
City Administrator Review _______
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Greg Lee, Director of Public Works
Item Title/Subject: Trunk Highway 10 Noise Wall Update
Background:
On January 2, 2007 an update regarding the Trunk Highway 10 Noise Wall was
presented to the City Council City at a Work Session (see attachment). At this
meeting the City Council indicated that they wish to have Mn/DOT proceed with
the noise wall in the Ardan Park Area (Segment A) and other aspects of the
Trunk Highway 10 Noise Wall.
Discussion:
Based on this direction, Staff requested Ulteig Engineers, the engineering firm
that the City hired to work on this project, to forward all the data, including
incomplete construction plan sheets and incomplete specifications that they had
developed to Mark Lindaberg, Mn/DOT Regional Representative.
Staff will be meeting with Mr. Lindaberg along with Peter Wasko, Mn/DOT’s
Noise Abatement Specialist on Thursday, May 31, 2007 (after this report was
due). The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the status of the noise wall in the
Ardan Park Area (Segment A) and other aspects of the Trunk Highway 10 noise
wall system. Staff will provide the City Council a verbal update at the Work
Session.
Recommendation:
Staff is looking for direction on this matter. Specifically, Staff is looking for
Council direction and input as to how they would like to proceed with the Trunk
Highway 10 Noise Wall issue.
Respectfully Submitted,
Greg Lee, Director of Public Works
City of Mounds View
Memo
To: City Council
From: Greg Lee
CC: Kurt Ulrich
Date: June 1, 2007
Re: Trunk Highway 10 Noise Wall – draft alignments
As stated in the June 4, 2007 City Council Work Session Report, Staff will be meeting with Mr.
Lindaberg along with Peter Wasko, Mn/DOT’s Noise Abatement Specialist on Thursday, May 31,
2007 (after the report was due). The purpose of this meeting was to discuss the status of the
noise wall in the Ardan Park Area (Segment A) and other aspects of the Trunk Highway 10 noise
wall system.
One question that was posed to the City was if the City has a preference regarding the alignment
of the wall. Mn/DOT has developed two rough possible alignments for the wall (see attached
map).
Staff has reviewed these two alignments and recommends Alignment A. Alignment A has the
least amount of impact to Arden Park and it retains the significant trees within the park area. It
was originally thought that alignment B would be located on higher ground; thus increasing the
effectiveness of the wall. However this is not the case.
Other questions posed by Mn/DOT were:
• The schedule for this project is to award a construction contract in the spring of
2008. Would the City want to delay this until 2010 to see if addition state
funding would be made available to do a larger project?
• Will the City agree to grant a permanent wall easement for areas where the wall
is not contained within Mn/DOT’s right-of-way?
• Will the City grant permission to perform additional soil borings once an
alignment is established?
Item No. 8
Meeting Date: March 3, 2008
Type of Business: WK
WK: Work Session; PH: Public Hearing;
CA: Consent Agenda; CB: Council Business
City Administrator Review _______
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Greg Lee, Director of Public Works
Item Title/Subject: City Entrance Monuments (Signs)
Background:
General Metal Entrance Signs
The City Council has been reviewing and considering City entrance signs at the
last two work sessions. The direction at this point is that the City Council has
expressed an interest in replacing the existing metal entrance signs at nine
locations within the City. These signs are to be 24”X60” in size and direction was
given to create a dozen of these signs once the details of the design were
determined. The basic design, including letting and graphics, was reviewed and
found agreeable to the City Council. The color scheme, which included a burnt
orange background graphic, was not agreeable to the City Council and direction
was given to look at other colors – specifically light blue.
County Road 10 Entrance Signs
The City Council also wanted to explore the idea of placing two larger entrance
signs at either end of County Road 10. The direction at this point would be to
install an east entrance sign that would be 4’X10’ in size and mounted on 6”X6”
cedar posts. This east entrance sign would be located in the north County Road
10 right-of-way, south of KFC Restaurant and McDonald’s. The west entrance
sign would be somewhat smaller; 4’X8’ in size and mounted on 4”X4” cedar
posts. The west entrance sign would be located in the south County Road 10
right-of-way, at the west City boundary where currently a smaller metal Mounds
View entrance sign exists.
Discussion:
General Metal Entrance Signs
Based on the City Council’s direction, a mock metal entrance sign has been
designed for the City Council’s review. This draft sign is 24”X60” in size and
contains a light blue background. This sign is currently on display in the City
Council chambers. The City Council had also requested a cost estimate to
create a large (8’ X 4’) metal sign of this design that could be used at either end
of County Road 10. This cost estimate was not available at the time this report
was finalized and included in the March 3, 2007, Work Session packet. It is
hoped that this information will be available to present at the meeting.
County Road 10 Entrance Signs
The City Council reviewed a draft proposal by Sign-A-Rama for the east and
west County Road 10 Entrance Signs. This rendering was similar in size and
shape to one of the entrance signs for the City of White Bear Lake. It also had a
board located below the main sign to be used to recognize various supporters,
sponsors, and civic groups.
The City Council requested that this sign be simplified and a new draft submitted.
The City Council expressed a desire to retain the lower sign board for posting
civic group logos. Attached are two more drafts of these County Road 10
entrance signs. These are noted as Option A and Option B. Also attached, as a
reference, is the draft that was reviewed last month.
Recommendation:
Staff is looking for direction on this matter. Specifically, Staff is looking for
Council direction regarding the development and installation of City entrance
monuments / signs.
Respectfully Submitted,
Greg Lee, Director of Public Works
Item No. 5
Meeting Date: February 4, 2008
Type of Business: WK
WK: Work Session; PH: Public Hearing;
CA: Consent Agenda; CB: Council Business
City Administrator Review _______
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Greg Lee, Director of Public Works
Item Title/Subject: City Entrance Monuments (Signs)
Background:
On January 7, 2008, the City Council discussed City Entrance Monuments.
Attached is the report that was presented.
At this meeting the City Council indicated that they wanted to pursue the
possibility of installing two entrance monuments (signs) to be located at either
end of County Road 10. The intent was to have these signs installed in time for
the City’s 50th anniversary celebration schedule for August of this year.
The report from the January 7, 2008 meeting provided pictures of several
entrance monument signs that other cities have installed. The City Council
indicated that they would prefer a sign similar to the White Bear Lake sign.
Also at the January 7, 2008 meeting, Staff indicated that they would wait on
proceeding with printing of smaller metal signs (24” X 60”). These signs read
“Welcome to Mounds View” and will replace existing signs located at 9 other
entrances to the City. The City Council had requested that the background color
of these signs be changed. The Council may also want to consider whether the
creation / design of the County Road 10 monuments will impact the design of
these signs in terms of color and lettering style.
Discussion:
Based on Council preferences, Staff explored and gathered information on the
White Bear Lake sign. This sign is 109 inches (9’-1”) wide, 39 inches high at the
sides, and 60 inches high at the center.
A sign contractor has provided a draft concept of the Mounds View entrance
signs. Attached is a color rendering of this sign. As shown, the dimensions of this
sign would be 4 feet high and eight feet wide. However, the dimensions could be
changed to 4’X10’ (or larger) if the Council wishes.
In review of this rendering, Staff would recommend that the words “The City of”
be removed. Also the “Est. 1858“ would need to change to 1958 – or perhaps
eliminated all together.
The draft rendering also has a board located below the main sign – similar to the
White Bear Lake sign. This could be used to recognize various supporters,
sponsors, and civic groups. Or it could include the City’s motto: “Pride, Progress,
and Partnership”. Or it could be eliminated completely.
The East sign is proposed to be 4’X10’ in size and mounted on 6”X6” cedar
posts. The East sign is proposed to be located in the north County Road 10 right-
of-way, south of KFC Restaurant and McDonald’s. The West sign is proposed to
be somewhat smaller; 4’X8’ in size and mounted on 4”X4” cedar posts. The West
sign is proposed to be located in the south County Road 10 right-of-way, at the
west City boundary. There is currently a smaller metal Mounds View entrance
sign at this location (1880 County Road 10). The cost of these two signs,
excluding Staff time to install, is estimated to be $7,400. These signs would be
similar in construction and design to the park signs that have been ordered and
are currently being installed – one has been installed at Hillview Park. A park
sign will be available outside the Council Chambers prior to the February 4, 2008
Work session meeting.
The report presented on January 7, 2008, included a proposal from a second
sign vendor (see attached report). The estimated cost of this sign is
approximately $8,000 to $9,400.
Both the East and West entrance signs, as proposed, would be located on the
Ramsey County right-of-way. As such, permits will need to be obtained from
Ramsey County for their installation. The installation would be performed by City
Staff, and would be completed in the spring of 2008; after the signs have been
completed and as soon as the frost goes out of the soil. It should be pointed out
that in the spring of 2009, the City plans to install a trailway, landscaping, and
lighting in the area of the East sign. This most likely will require the East sign to
be removed and reinstalled after this work has been completed.
Does the City Council wish to pursue the possible construction of City entrance
monuments at this time? If so, Staff would like direction on the following:
• What size of monument does the City Council prefer? East sign 4’X10’,
West sign 4’X8’? A test 4’X8’ could be erected at either site for a short
period.
• Are the proposed locations acceptable to the City Council?
• Is the proposed design acceptable? Or are there modifications the Council
would like to make? What style of lettering does the City Council prefer?
• Should the monument sign/ lettering style match the nine other entrance
signs?
• Should the monument sign be illuminated (power source)?
• Is there other information pertaining to monument signage the City Council
like Staff to obtain?
Recommendation:
Staff is looking for direction on this matter. Specifically, Staff is looking for
Council direction regarding the aforementioned issues associated with the
development and installation of City entrance monuments / signs.
Respectfully Submitted,
Greg Lee, Director of Public Works
Woodale Drive
County Hwy 10
Property owned by: Saturn Development Co
Property ID #: 083023310076
Zoning: B-3 (Hwy Business)
2007 Ramsey County value: $1,834,700
Natural Characteristics: Flat, access to County Highway 10 and County Road H2
Item No. 9
Meeting Date: March 3, 2008
Type of Business: WS
WS: Work Session; PH: Public Hearing;
CA: Consent Agenda; EDA: EDA Business
Administrator Review: _____
City of Mounds View Staff Report
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Heidi Steinmetz, Economic Development Specialist
Item Title/Subject: Request for Feedback: Discuss Potential
Planning Study for Saturn/MultiTech Area
Background:
On February 11, 2008, the City Council reviewed its 2007/2008 Strategic and
Ongoing Goals and examined the status of the identified action steps. The
Council will discuss the goals again at the upcoming leadership and
management retreat scheduled for March 14−15, 2008.
Currently, the Council’s #2 Strategic Goal is to finalize and implement the
redevelopment and revitalization plan for County Highway 10. One of the
Council’s related action steps is to identify targeted areas of redevelopment.
On February 15, 2008, the Economic Development Commission (EDC) adopted
their own 2008 goals, which staff reported to the EDA on February 25, 2008. As
reported, the EDC’s 2008 priority goal is the development/redevelopment along
the County Hwy 10 corridor. One of the EDC’s specified 2008 redevelopment
projects is the redevelopment of the Saturn auto dealership. Saturn will be
relocating to Blaine upon completion of a new facility there. A site map of the
current Mounds View location is attached for the Council’s reference.
Introduction:
According to Jim Price of Saturn Development, it is anticipated but not certain
that Saturn will begin construction of their new facility in Blaine this summer.
Throughout 2007, staff remained in contact with Mr. Price and communicated
that the City would be interested in a different use for the Mounds View site.
Saturn has been working diligently to attract a new user for the Mounds View site
and has hired The Davidson Companies as the listing agent.
As staff and The Davidson Companies work to attract a new user, it would be
helpful to communicate (to potential users) the City’s vision for the site.
This vision would become part of a comprehensive redevelopment plan for this
area of County Hwy 10, a process that began when the City hired
DSU/Bonestroo to complete the December 2006 Premium Stop Redevelopment
Area Planning Study.
Request for Feedback:
Staff is requesting feedback from the City Council on their level of interest of
completing a planning study, similar to the DSU/Bonnestroo study, for the
Saturn/MutliTech area. This new study would be an extension of the Premium
Stop Redevelopment Area study.
Staff has requested an informal quote from DSU/Bonestroo for what an extended
study might cost and will communicate the informal quote to the Council on
Monday evening.
If an extended study is something the Council is interested in, staff will draft a
Request for Proposals (RFP) for EDA to consider at a future meeting.
Attachment: Saturn site map
Respectfully submitted,
____________________________
Heidi Steinmetz
Economic Development Specialist