HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 2022/11/28APPROVED
PROCEEDINGS OF THE MOUNDS VIEW CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW
RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA
Regular Meeting
November 28, 2022
Mounds View City Hall
2401 Mounds View Boulevard, Mounds View, MN 55112
6:52 P.M.
1. MEETING IS CALLED TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL: Bergeron, Cermak, Hull, Meehlhause, Mueller
NOT PRESENT: None.
4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
A. Monday, November 28, 2022, City Council Agenda.
Mayor Mueller requested Special Order of Business be addressed after approval of the Consent
Agenda.
MOTION/SECOND: Meehlhause/Hull. To Approve the Monday, November 28, 2022, agenda as
amended.
Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried.
5. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Approval of Minutes: November 14, 2022.
B. Just and Correct Claims.
C. Resolution 9658, Approving a Lease Agreement Renewal with Dippin
Chocolate, LLC, for Use of Kitchen Space in the Mounds View Community
Center.
MOTION/SECOND: Bergeron/Hull. To Approve the Consent Agenda as presented.
Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried.
7. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS
A. Recognition of Charter Commission Member Jonathan Thomas.
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Mayor Mueller recognized Jonathan Thomas and thanked him for his 21 years of dedicated service
on the Mounds View Charter Commission.
Jonathan Thomas thanked the Council for this recognition and stated he appreciated the City’s
support over the years.
6. PUBLIC COMMENT
Brian Kaden, 7675 Spring Lake Road, explained he was before the Council two weeks ago after
his son was almost hit by a car that rant the stop sign and bus arm at his bus stop. He requested
the City install stop signs with flashing borders at the east and west intersection of County Road I.
He also recommended the rectangular signs that say “Oncoming Traffic Does Not Stop” be
installed under the stop signs. It was his hope that this would assist with eliminating confusion for
drivers at this intersection. He commented further on the number of children in his neighborhood
and stated he would like to see them properly protected.
Mayor Mueller asked if Mr. Kaden was able to speak with the transportation department with the
school district.
Mr. Kaden stated after speaking with the transportation department, he was able to get his sons
bus stop moved, which meant his son would no longer have to cross County Road I. Rather, the
bus would be rerouted for safety purposes. He thanked the Council for their assistance with this
matter.
Ann Tate, 3048 Bronson Drive, explained she lived at the corner of Pleasant View Drive and
Bronson Drive. She presented the City staff with a petition against the road redesign that was being
considered for Pleasant View Drive and requested the planned project be limited to the repair of
the existing road. She reported her neighbors that had signed the petition opposed the proposed
multi-use trail.
Mayor Mueller thanked Ms. Tate for her efforts and noted the City of Fridley was piloting this
project. Public Works/Parks and Recreation Director Peterson explained Fridley was taking the
lead on this project and the cost for the project would be shared between Fridley and Mounds
View. He noted this matter would be coming back to the Council for further consideration on
December 12.
Daniel Turner, 1955 McKinley Street in Minneapolis, spoke to the proposed work being planned
on Pleasant View Drive. He explained he did a lot of biking throughout the community and he did
not believe a multi-use trail was necessary. Rather, he recommended signs be posted that Pleasant
View Drive was a bicycle route.
Renee Johnson, 7385 Pleasant View Drive, expressed concerns with who would maintain the
proposed trail. She reported her street sewer system was never cleaned out. She feared that if a
trail were constructed, it would not be properly maintained. She was of the opinion that Pleasant
View Drive was wide enough to accommodate walkers and bikers and did not need additional
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right-of-way for a trail. She questioned why she heard about this project from Fridley residents
prior to receive notification from the City of Mounds View. She encouraged the City to do better
with its communication efforts. She discussed how County Road I was in both Anoka County and
Ramsey County and had differing speed limits. She suggested this be addressed through this
project. She stated she was also concerned with the amount of right-of-way that had been taken in
1994 to widen the street. She anticipated the City did not have additional right-of-way available if
the street were widened even more. She explained the safety of her street was not a concern at this
time and she requested the street width remain as is.
Bill Doty, 3049 Bronson Drive, stated he believed the road was plenty wide enough already to
accommodate walkers or bikers on the shoulder. He discussed how the street was lowered three
feet in 1994 and the dirt was stored in his backyard. He recommended the street width remain and
that a trail not be added.
Janine Jallings, 7581 Pleasant View Drive, explained when the road was first widened the residents
opposed this. She reported the residents were told the street was being widened to allow for bikers
and walkers. She questioned why an additional 10 feet was now needed for walkers and bikers.
She stated the residents were very upset about the trees that were lost on the corner and she feared
how the street would be impacted if it was widened by another 10 feet.
Brian Amundsen, 3048 Woodale Drive, encouraged the City to direct public works to look at the
traffic issues occurring at Spring Lake Road and County Road I. He then spoke to the Council
regarding taxes. He understood the 2023 tax levy would be considered by the Council on December
12. He explained he got his tax projection from Ramsey County and questioned why the City of
Mounds View could not lower their taxes like the other taxing authorities in this jurisdiction.
Bill Doty, 3049 Bronson Drive, stated there was no need to widen Pleasant View Drive. She
encouraged the City to make improvements to this roadway that did not include widening the
street. She also supported the City installing flashing stop signs at County Road I and Spring Lake
Road.
Daniel Tate, 3048 Bronson Drive, explained he bikes the trails in the community and noted he
used to live in Fridley. He indicated he did not believe a trail was necessary along Pleasant View
Drive. He recommended that if a trail was installed, that a transition zone be considered in order
to slow the speed of traffic.
Grant Bilski, 5219 O’Connell Drive, discussed Resolution 9651 which was considered by the
Council at their last meeting. He noted staff presented the conduit bonds as being risk free. He
reported if the applicant were to default on the bonds, the City’s credit rating would be adversely
impacted.
Teresa Leary, 5250 O’Connell Drive, reported she spoke at the last City Council meeting about
why she does not want the apartments on Woodale Drive. She asked if the Council Member that
was not in attendance at that meeting had read the statements made at that meeting.
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Council Member Bergeron reported he had read the minutes and watched that meeting. He
explained he heard the comments and concerns raised by the public regarding the proposed
apartment building.
Ms. Leary encouraged the Council to visit her property in order to better understand how the
neighbors would be adversely impacted by the proposed apartment building.
Cindy Camarillo, 5299 Greenfield, reported she lives two doors down from the Gray Stone Flats.
She discussed the vision within the 2040 Comprehensive Plan and noted the proposed apartments
on Woodale Drive would not be desirable. She discussed how this building would create a cattle
shoot effect for the Mounds View Boulevard corridor. She explained she was concerned for the
safety of the children along Woodale Drive given the increased level of traffic from the new
apartments. She anticipated the entire light system would have to be redesigned in order to
accommodate this new building. She commented further on the Council’s goals for the community
and noted the new apartment building would not make the City more stable. She encouraged the
Council to invest more in affordable homes and not in affordable multi-family units.
8. COUNCIL BUSINESS
A. i. Public Hearing: First Reading and Introduction of Ordinance No. 998,
Amending the Official Zoning Map for 2310 Mounds View Boulevard, from
R-1 Single Family Residential to PUD Planned Unit Development. ROLL
CALL VOTE
Community Development Director Sevald requested the Council amend the official Zoning Map
for 2310 Mounds View Boulevard, from R-1 Single Family Residential to PUD Planned Unit
Development. He provided the Council with a broad overview of the project, noting the building
had increased from 130 units to 140 units. It was noted staff was recommending the Council hold
the public hearing for all four items for this project, that the Ordinance for the rezoning be
introduced, but that action on the other items (Council Business 8Aii and 8Aiii) be tabled to
December 12. He reported this was being done to ensure the proper zoning was in place prior to
approving the preliminary plat, planned unit development and development review. Staff
commented further on the proposed rezoning and recommended the Council hold a public hearing
and that the Ordinance be introduced.
Mayor Mueller asked how many stories the building would be. Community Development Director
Sevald explained the building would be four stories above an underground parking garage. He
commented on the topography of the site, noting the building would appear four stories from
Woodale Drive and would appear three stories from Mounds View Boulevard.
Mayor Mueller opened the public hearing at 7:41 p.m.
Zach Lindstrom, 8378 Long Lake Road, thanked the residents who have brought their comments
and concerns forward regarding on this project. He also thanked the Council for hearing the
comments from the public. He stated he understood the community was changing and not everyone
could afford to live in a market rate apartment. He reported he has lived in low income housing in
the past and he appreciated the opportunity these units provide. He explained the City currently
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had 255 licensed rental properties that consisted of 1,885 units in the community which housed
31% of the City’s population. He stated according to apartments.com, there were 199 apartments
for rent in the Mounds View area with multiple options below $1,000. He suggested the City not
pursue additional multi-family housing until there was a need. He discussed how many multi-
family housing units were being built in surrounding communities. He recommended the City
consider revitalizing the current apartments in the community, while also helping to make these
buildings more efficient. He stated he was concerned with the multiple exceptions that were being
considered for this project and the TIF request. He noted he has talked to many of his neighbors
and they do not want this project built. He encouraged the Council to hear the neighbors voices
because they were there first and their quality of life matters.
Jonathan Thomas, 8040 Groveland Road, stated this was not his backyard, but he feared how this
neighborhood would be impacted if yet another apartment complex were constructed. He discussed
how his property was impacted by another apartment building. He encouraged the Council to
consider how this large building would impact the existing residential homes. He stated if the
Council were to approve a zoning change, this would be difficult to take back. He encouraged the
Council to consider the long-term planning for this site as this did not include changing residential
zoning to PUD.
Linda Burrows, 5200 O’Connell, stated she built her home in 1969 and three of her neighbors were
still the original owners. She discussed how she has been impacted by the traffic changes the City
has been making and she feared how this situation would become worse with more traffic along
Woodale Drive. She believed the proposed project was a bad idea and encouraged the Council to
not support the rezoning.
Rosemary Lensing, 8310 Pleasant View Drive, explained she opposed the rezoning of this property
from R-1 to PUD. She did not believe this site should have high density housing and noted this
would not encourage community pride. She discussed how this project would impact the school
district and police services. She suggested the Council consider how the trees and wildlife in the
community would be impacted by the proposed large structure. She noted the City does not have
proper public transportation to serve the needs of the residents living in this development. She
recommended the Council deny the proposed rezoning because this project would be an excessive
burden on the community.
Teresa Leary, 5250 O’Connell Drive, commented she lived next to the senior living facility. She
stated she was promised a nice buffer between her home and the senior facility, which amounted
to four evergreen trees that were not maintained. She discussed how the workers at the senior
facility were smokers at the rear of the building, which impacted the adjacent homeowners.
Nina Dojan, 5259 Greenfield Avenue, stated the tiny neighborhood that this large apartment
complex would be going into has had year after year of major construction projects. She reported
there are no inlets or outlets except Woodale Drive. She discussed the number of walkers in her
neighborhood and how crime was on the rise. She explained this roadway was already stressed
and she feared how the roadway would be able to handle another 140+ vehicles. She encouraged
the Council to consider how this development would impact the neighbors who live in this area,
as well as the number of children who were walking to Edgewood Middle School. She noted this
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neighborhood does not have sidewalks and conditions were already unsafe. She feared for the
safety of the walking children if additional traffic were introduced to this neighborhood.
Megan Lee, 7550 Silver Lake Road, stated her children attend Edgewood Middle School and noted
she does not allow her children to walk school. She reported she saved all year in order to pay the
$500 fee so her children could be bussed because of the traffic situation surrounding the Edgewood
Middle School. She explained she could not understand how the area would be able to support
another 140+ vehicles and children. She indicated she moved to Mounds View because of the
schools, but she was concerned with the fact her children could not safely walk to the neighborhood
schools in the community. She encouraged the Council to consider what it values and if this was
a safe, small community or if this was large multi-family developments.
Brian Amundsen, 3048 Woodale Drive, explained he opposed the proposed PUD. He discussed
the 2006 plan for this property which included 50 townhomes or condos. He commented on how
variances changed neighborhoods. He believed it should be the goal of the Council to preserve
neighborhoods and not to change neighborhoods. He recommended variances only be considered
by the Council when a hardship was in place. He stated the developer was proposing to change
his neighborhood and he does not want his neighborhood changed. He encouraged the Council to
thank the developer for consider an investment in Mounds View, but recommended the Council
oppose the rezoning and PUD because this was not what the City wanted for this site.
Doug Donley, 5210 O’Connell Drive, thanked the Council for considering all of the comments
being voiced by the public. He stated he lived directly behind the proposed building and he was
concerned about the proposed building height. He thought the building would only be three stories
in height and he was now learning that one side of the building would be approaching five stories.
He recommended the Council not move forward with the rezoning of this property because this
development was not the right fit for the neighborhood.
Tiffany Alexander-Susens, 5209 O’Connell Drive, stated she was concerned with how the project
plans had changed since the last Council meeting. She discussed how many trees would be lost on
this property and estimated it would take 50+ years to replace these mature trees. She commented
on how the parking lot had not sidewalk, which provided poor accessibility. She understood the
City did not have enough officers in place to address speeding in the community. She feared how
the Mounds View Police Department would address the increased traffic concerns along Woodale
Drive if this project were approved. She reported the vast majority of her neighbors opposed this
project and she encouraged the Council to hear these voices. She encouraged the Council to oppose
this project.
Valerie Amundsen, 3048 Woodale Drive, explained she understood the City was working to
beautify the Mounds View Boulevard corridor. However, she encouraged the Council to consider
the voices of the neighbors who opposed this development, because this was the right thing to do.
She stated her heart just breaks for these residents when considering how this project would
adversely impact them if constructed. She understood this project looks good on paper, but this
did not make it right for the community.
Mark Dieter, 5219 Jeffery Drive, stated he preferred that this project not move forward. He
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anticipated that most residents in Mounds View did not want this building in their back yard. He
encouraged the Council to consider what was driving this project, if it was finances or if it was the
highest and best use for this site.
Pat Leary, 5250 O’Connell Drive, indicated many of his concerns have already been stated. He
stated this project did not look good on paper, nor would it look good outside of his back window.
He did not believe the Gray Stone Flats was an appealing project and feared how the proposed
project would impact his neighborhood. He noted the schools were full and the police department
was overwhelmed. He recommended the Council deny this project.
Kim Alexander-Susens, 5209 O’Connell Drive, stated she did not want this apartment complex to
be approved for many reasons. She discussed the number of trees that would be lost if this
development were approved and noted this would be the entrance point to the City. She did not
believe the rows and rows of apartments along the Mounds View Boulevard corridor was
appealing. She commented on how unsafe traffic already was in her neighborhood and stated an
additional 140 apartments with 1,000+ people would only make this situation worse. She indicated
the additional traffic would make it incredibly unsafe to walk in her neighborhood. She
recommended the Council deny the Woodale Apartment project in order to protect the neighbors
who already live in this area.
Ben Sigrist, 5270 Greenfield Avenue, explained he sent the Council an email prior to the meeting.
He thanked the Council for hearing the comments from the public. He stated he appreciated the
great points that had been made and encouraged the Council to consider how traffic and the lack
of access would impact this neighborhood. He indicated the lack of public transportation was also
a concern for him. He reported he has worked in supported housing for the last 15 years and he
valued affordable housing for individuals that were disenfranchised. He understood housing was
a key function to making this society work. He was of the opinion, the surrounding infrastructure
could not hold support the proposed number of units in this small space. He believed the proposed
building was not a good fit for this site or for the neighborhood and recommended the Council
deny the request.
Paul Kroonblawd, 2280 Mounds View Boulevard, stated the property at 2280 has been in his
family for 125 years. He explained if the developer gets to Phase II, he would not be selling.
Sherry Nelson, 7555 Groveland Road, stated two weeks ago she spoke about having a desirable
and thriving community. She questioned if the City understood the impact the additional 140 units
would have on the school district. She noted she was very active when her children in school and
understood there was a large percentage of children in the community that were in need of
assistance. She discussed how school performance was a direct correlation to property values.
She understood people were moving to the community because Mounds View had great schools.
She expressed concern with the quality of the water that would be running from this site given the
fact the site would be fully covered with asphalt and a building. She questioned what the builders
commitment was to the community and asked what the neighbors were getting from this
development. She encouraged the City to increase its transparency and communication with the
public by offering the pros and cons for this development.
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Hearing no further public input, Mayor Mueller closed the public hearing at 8:29 p.m.
Mayor Mueller thanked all of the members of the public for coming forward and voicing their
concerns regarding this project.
Community Development Director Sevald discussed the public hearing notice that was published
in the Shoreview Press on October 25 and explained notices were sent to property owners living
within 350 feet of the subject property. He recommended the developer come forward at this time
to speak further about the project.
Jared Ackman, Reuter Walton Development, reviewed elevations for the proposed apartment
building with the Council. He explained this site was a priority along Mounds View Boulevard.
He reported the site was slated for multi-family or mixed use opportunities. He discussed how he
had enhanced the site to address concerns that had been voiced regarding the project. He noted the
rear property line would have a fence with landscaping for screening purposes. He commented on
the elevation of the site but noted the building would have a flat roof versus a pitched roof. He
reported 95% of the traffic from the apartment building would be going east on Woodale Drive
out to Mounds View Boulevard. He discussed how it benefited the community to have numerous
housing options and indicated there was a lack of affordable housing options in the market at this
time. He reported local businesses and their workers needed more viable affordable housing
options in Mounds View.
Council Member Bergeron inquired if the PUD included mixed use. Community Development
Director Sevald reported this was the case.
Community Development Director Sevald asked how long this site has been vacant. Community
Development Director Sevald stated this site has been vacant since 2010.
Council Member Bergeron questioned how much interest there has been in building single family
homes on this site. Community Development Director Sevald explained there has been no interest
in building single family homes on this site.
Council Member Bergeron indicated the developer stated a traffic analysis would be completed
for this development, and the Council received a traffic memo. He asked how many days of
information had been compiled for this memo.
Mr. Ackman stated he was uncertain noting he had hired a third party to complete the traffic memo.
Nick Grage, Alliant Engineering, reported the trip gen memo, which was specific to this
development, was pulled together in a day and a half using historical traffic volumes for the area.
He explained the traffic volumes were documented by the Minnesota Department of
Transportation from 2015. He indicated this was the typical amount of effort pursued for these
types of project noting a more detailed traffic analysis could be completed at a future time.
Council Member Bergeron asked when the Council could provide input. Community Development
Director Sevald reported now would be the right time for the Council to provide input on this
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project.
Council Member Bergeron supported the developer completing an in depth study on the traffic for
this project prior to the Council considering the PUD. In addition, he wanted to see the other
concerns that were brought forward by the Planning Commission addressed by the developer prior
to consideration of the PUD.
Council Member Meehlhause asked if any development other than a single family home, require
a rezoning for this site. Community Development Director Sevald stated anything other than a
single family home would require a rezoning, such as townhomes or retail.
Council Member Meehlhause requested further information on how the Comprehensive Plan and
the current zoning interacts. Community Development Director Sevald explained the
Comprehensive Plan was a 20 year guide for the City. He reported development for this site would
have to be compliant with the Comprehensive Plan which guides the property for mixed use (40%
commercial/60% residential).
Council Member Meehlhause questioned what would happen if the rezoning were approved but
the project does not move forward. Community Development Director Sevald reported approval
of one part of this project was contingent upon approval of all portions of this project. City
Attorney Riggs explained if the property were rezoned, the Council would have to take action to
rezone the site properly. He commented further on how the PUD was specific for this project.
Council Member Hull inquired if the stormwater plan was sufficient for this property. Community
Development Director Sevald indicated the stormwater storage would be underground beneath the
parking lot. He stated the developer was required to receive a stormwater management permit as
part of the building permit review.
Council Member Hull asked what the property value was as is, versus what it would be if the
project were completed. Mr. Ackman stated he did not know the current value of the property, but
understood the one lot was paying $2,000 per year in property taxes. He noted the total
development costs would be $43 million.
A member in the audience asked how surrounding property values would be impacted by the
proposed project. Community Development Director Sevald stated he reached out to the County
to better understand how the properties surrounding the Bel Ray were impacted before and after
the project. He stated the one property he investigated had a significant value increase after the Bel
Ray project was completed.
Finance Director Beer reported the County has the estimated market value at $128,000 for this
2.98 acre lot.
Mayor Mueller stated request before the Council would rezone the property from R-1 to PUD,
which was specific to this development. Community Development Director Sevald explained the
rezoning was for the land and was not specific to this building.
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Mayor Mueller indicated she was concerned about the number of exceptions within this PUD. She
stated City Code would require this development to have 350 parking spaces and the developer
was only proposing to have 198 spaces. She believed this was a major concern given the fact the
site was estimated to have 340+ residents. She feared an undue burden would be placed on the
neighborhood if traffic were to spill out from the apartment complex into the neighborhood. She
believed the developer was trying to shoe-horn a large project onto a small lot. She understood
that single family homes was not the right fit for this property, but nor did not believe this large of
a project was the right fit for the property, especially given the traffic concerns surrounding this
site. She reported the City of Arden Hills would be constructing a great deal of housing on their
327 acres of vacant land at some point in the near future. She stated she would hate to see Mound
View using its last five acres of undeveloped land to put up another apartment building when the
City already had over 30% of its population living in rental housing. She explained she appreciated
the efforts of the developer, but noted she did not support this project.
Council Member Meehlhause asked if staff had traffic count information for Woodale between
Mound View Boulevard and Edgewood. City Administrator Zikmund stated staff has not put its
counters out on this stretch of roadway.
Public Works/Parks and Recreation Director Peterson commented on the history of Woodale Drive
noting that it used to be a State Aid roadway. He explained in 2016 the City was over its allotment
for State Aid. For this reason, the City made a decision to pull this roadway out of the State Aid
program. He indicated there were no recent traffic counts from the State for this roadway, which
meant the last official counts would be from 2015.
MOTION/SECOND: Meehlhause/Cermak. To Waive the First Reading and Introduce Ordinance
998, Amending the Official Zoning Map for 2310 Mounds View Boulevard, from R-1 Single
Family Residential to PUD Planned Unit Development.
Mayor Mueller encouraged the Council to consider if they need more information, such as a traffic
study, before moving forward with this project. He invited the Council to visit this area of Mounds
View and to visualize how a large apartment complex would impact these neighbors.
MOTION/SECOND: Mueller/Hull. To Table Action on Ordinance 998 to the December 12, 2022
City Council meeting.
Community Development Director Sevald stated if the Council were to table action on the first
reading of this ordinance to December, the remaining items for this project would not be
considered until January of 2023.
City Administrator Zikmund reported an action to table is non-debatable.
Council Member Bergeron asked what would be gained or lost by tabling action on this item. City
Attorney Riggs reported the City would lose time but noted the City could gain additional
information, such as a traffic study.
Council Member Meehlhause questioned if staff could have a traffic study completed by December
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12, and therefore the matter would not have to be tabled. City Attorney Riggs stated this
information could be available. He discussed how if action on this item were tabled, the two other
public hearings would have to be tabled and renoticed.
Council Member Meehlhause stated another option would be for the Council to hold an additional
meeting on December 26. He commented if the first reading of this rezoning were approved, this
did not mean the project was moving forward. He explained both Ramsey County and the State
of Minnesota had to approve tax credits in order for this project to move forward. In addition, TIF
would have to be considered by the new Council in 2023 before this project could move forward.
Mayor Mueller reported she would like more information before this property is rezoned. She
explained the City Council has heard a large number of voices from the neighborhood and she
wanted to see the Council being receptive to these comments prior to moving this project forward.
She stated she was concerned with the fact Ramsey County may grant more affordable housing
credits in Arden Hills than in Mounds View in order to spur development in TCAAP. While she
appreciated all of the efforts of the developer, she believed this project was not a good fit for this
property.
Council Member Bergeron explained he was a strong component for affordable housing. He
commented on a fundraiser he attended for the Beacon Interfaith Housing Collaborative. He
reported there was a tremendous difference between affordable housing and supportive housing.
He noted he worked for a non-profit that deals in supportive housing. He stated he had concerns
with some of the statements that were made at this meeting. He believed that with a collaborative
spirit and an eye for efficiency the City could be committed to ensuring this project aligns with the
unique neighborhood needs and values, delivering lasting benefits to the residents, investors and
the community alike. He explained he wanted to see more collaboration from all parties involved
and this project has to be done thoughtfully and not just emotionally. He agreed the project should
not be rushed and he would support the motion to table.
Mayor Mueller called the question.
Ayes – 4 Nay – 1 (Meehlhause) Motion carried.
ii. Public Hearing: Resolution 9653, Approving the Preliminary Plat of
“WOODALE APARTMENTS”. ROLL CALL VOTE
City Attorney Riggs recommended the Council open the public hearing for the preliminary plat
for the Woodale Apartments and continue this item to the December 12, 2022 City Council
meeting at 6:30 p.m.
Mayor Mueller opened the public hearing at 9:16 p.m.
MOTION/SECOND: Meehlhause/Hull. To Continue this public hearing to the December 12,
2022 City Council meeting at 6:30 p.m.
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Mayor Mueller requested staff complete a traffic study and provide the Council with additional
information regarding the parking projections for this project. She indicated she would like
additional information on how the 140 units would be accommodated on the site and what
amenities would be lost. She noted she was concerned about the tree loss and stated she would like
additional information on how many trees would be replanted. She commented she would like
further information on what the north and east fences would be constructed from.
Council Member Bergeron indicated he would like additional information regarding the lighting
plan.
Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried.
iii. Public Hearing: Resolution 9654, Approving the PUD of “WOODALE
APARTMENTS” and Development Review. ROLL CALL VOTE
City Attorney Riggs recommended the Council open the public hearing for the PUD and
Development Review for the Woodale Apartments and continue this item to the December 12,
2022 City Council meeting at 6:30 p.m.
Mayor Mueller opened the public hearing at 9:29 p.m.
MOTION/SECOND: Meehlhause/Hull. To Continue this public hearing to the December 12,
2022 City Council meeting at 6:30 p.m.
Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried.
Mayor Mueller recessed the City Council meeting at 9:30 p.m.
Mayor Mueller reconvened the City Council meeting at 9:36 p.m.
Mayor Mueller requested Item 8I be discussed at this time.
I. Resolution 9663, Approving the Installation of a Low-Pressure Alarm Remote
Telemetry Unit (RTU).
Public Works/Parks and Recreation Director Peterson requested the Council approve the
installation of a Low-Pressure Alarm Remote Telemetry Unit (RTU). He explained this purchase
was discussed at the last Council meeting and would address the low pressure concern that
occurred in October. He reported the alarm would alert public works staff if the City reached a
point of critical low-water pressure within the system, separate from the SCADA alarms for
redundancy purposes. He reviewed the estimate he received for the RTU and recommended
approval of the purchase.
MOTION/SECOND: Hull/Cermak. To Waive the Reading and Adopt Resolution 9663,
Approving the Installation of a Low-Pressure Alarm Remote Telemetry Unit (RTU).
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Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried.
B. Public Hearing: Introduction and First Reading of Ordinance 997, an
Ordinance Amending Chapter 105 of the Mounds View Municipal Code
Regarding Mayor and City Council Annual Compensation.
City Administrator Zikmund requested the Council introduce an Ordinance that would amend
Chapter 105 of the Mounds View Municipal Code regarding Mayor and City Council annual
compensation. He stated it has been six years since the Council has considered an increase in pay.
He noted the proposal was for a 10% increase over eight years and this increase would not take
effect until after the next election.
Mayor Mueller opened the public hearing at 9:42 p.m.
Hearing no public input, Mayor Mueller closed the public hearing at 9:43 p.m.
MOTION/SECOND: Mueller/Bergeron. To Waive the First Reading and Adopt Ordinance 997,
an Ordinance Amending Chapter 105 of the Mounds View Municipal Code Regarding Mayor and
City Council Annual Compensation.
Council Member Meehlhause explained it was strange for the Council to vote on a pay raise. He
reported this was the manner in which the Council had to proceed when considering new rates for
the Council’s compensation.
Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried.
C. Resolution 9656, Approving Various Appointments to the City of Mounds
Views Boards, Commissions and Committees 2023.
City Administrator Zikmund requested the Council approve various appointments to the City of
Mounds Views Boards, Commissions and Committees 2023. He reviewed the proposed
appointments in detail with the Council and recommended approval.
MOTION/SECOND: Hull/Meehlhause. To Waive the Reading and Adopt Resolution 9656,
Approving Various Appointments to the City of Mounds Views Boards, Commissions and
Committees 2023.
Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried.
D. Resolution 9657, Approving Slate of Candidates to Ramsey County Board for
Appointment of a Commissioner to the Rice Creek Watershed District.
City Administrator Zikmund requested the Council approve the slate of candidates to the Ramsey
County Board for appointment of a Commissioner to the Rice Creek Watershed District. He
explained Statute requires a list of candidates from which Ramsey County shall choose a candidate.
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He commented further on the candidates and recommended approval of the list.
MOTION/SECOND: Meehlhause/Bergeron. To Waive the Reading and Adopt Resolution 9657,
Approving Slate of Candidates to Ramsey County Board for Appointment of a Commissioner to
the Rice Creek Watershed District.
Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried.
E. Resolution 9659, Approving a Three Year Labor Agreement with the LELS
204 Police Patrol and Investigators Effective January 1, 2023 through
December 31, 2025.
City Administrator Zikmund requested the Council approve a three year labor agreement with the
LELS 204 Police Patrol and Investigators effective January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2025.
He discussed the terms within the agreement and recommended approval.
Finance Director Beer explained the bottom step would be increased from 70% to 75% of the top
maximum which should help with the hiring process.
Mayor Mueller supported this recommendation and commented on how important it was for the
City to maintain its valued police officers.
MOTION/SECOND: Meehlhause/Bergeron. To Waive the Reading and Adopt Resolution 9659,
Approving a Three Year Labor Agreement with the LELS 204 Police Patrol and Investigators
Effective January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2025.
Council Member Meehlhause stated he was part of the HR Committee and noted he was pleased
with the reasonableness of the proposed agreement from LELS. In addition, he appreciated the
fact this agreement was in line with other departments. He thanked Police Chief Harder for the
culture he has created within the Mound View Police Department.
Mayor Mueller added that the Mounds View City Council supports its police department, its
officers and appreciate how they serve the community.
Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried.
F. Resolution 9660, Approving a Three Year Labor Agreement with the LELS
232 Police Sergeants Effective January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2025.
City Administrator Zikmund requested the Council approve a three year labor agreement with the
LELS 232 Police Sergeants effective January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2025. He reviewed
the terms within the agreement, commented on the importance of middle management within the
Mounds View Police Department and recommended approval of the labor agreement.
MOTION/SECOND: Hull/Meehlhause. To Waive the Reading and Adopt Resolution 9660,
Approving a Three Year Labor Agreement with the LELS 232 Police Sergeants Effective January
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1, 2023 through December 31, 2025.
Council Member Meehlhause stated the Mounds View Police Department had very high quality
Sergeants and noted he supported the agreement as proposed.
Mayor Mueller thanked Sergeant Wolfe for his 18 years of dedicated service to the City of Mounds
View.
Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried.
G. Resolution 9661, Approving Retirement Health Savings Plan Policy Revisions.
City Administrator Zikmund requested the Council approve revisions to the Retirement Health
Savings Plan Policy. He commented on the proposed revisions and recommended approval.
Mayor Mueller asked if this being a mandatory program and deductions being made from payroll
was an IRS regulation. Finance Director Beer reported this was the case.
MOTION/SECOND: Meehlhause/Hull. To Waive the Reading and Adopt Resolution 9661,
Approving Retirement Health Savings Plan Policy Revisions.
Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried.
H. Resolution 9662, Relating to the Issuance of Conduit Revenue Bonds to
Finance the Costs of a Multifamily Rental Housing Facility and Under
Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 462C, as Amended; Granting Preliminary
Approval Thereto; Calling for a Public Hearing; Establishing Compliance
with Certain Reimbursement Regulations Under the Internal Revenue Code
of 1986, as Amended; and Taking Certain Other Actions with Respect Thereto
(Reuter Walton Project).
Finance Director Beer requested the Council adopt a Resolution relating to the issuance of Conduit
Revenue Bonds to Finance the Costs of a Multifamily Rental Housing Facility and under
Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 462C, as amended; Granting Preliminary Approval Thereto; Calling
for a Public Hearing; establishing compliance with certain reimbursement regulations under the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended; and taking certain other actions with respect thereto
regarding the Reuter Walton Project. He explained this was a preliminary approval that would give
the developer the ability to make application to the State of Minnesota for conduit debt financing.
He commented on the deadline for this application noting the applicant was looking to receive $23
million to assist with this project. He reported if the developer defaults on the conduit debt
financing, the City was not on the hook and the City’s credit rating would not be impacted.
Council Member Beer asked how long the City has been issuing conduit debt financing. Finance
Director Beer stated the last time the City issued this type of financing was in 2008.
Council Member Meehlhause questioned if the City Attorney agreed the City would have no
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financial liability if this Resolution were approved. City Attorney Riggs explained the City would
have no liability for this financing.
Mayor Mueller inquired if it was appropriate for the Council to take action on this item given the
fact the Council tabled action on the other items pertaining to the Reuter Walton project. City
Attorney Riggs indicated it would be appropriate for the Council to move forward with this item
because it would allow the developer to make an application with the State.
MOTION/SECOND: Hull/Meehlhause. To Waive the Reading and Adopt Resolution 9662,
Relating to the Issuance of Conduit Revenue Bonds to Finance the Costs of a Multifamily Rental
Housing Facility and Under Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 462C, as Amended; Granting Preliminary
Approval Thereto; Calling for a Public Hearing; Establishing Compliance with Certain
Reimbursement Regulations Under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as Amended; and Taking
Certain Other Actions with Respect Thereto (Reuter Walton Project).
Ayes – 4 Nay – 1 (Mueller) Motion carried.
9. REPORTS
A. Reports of Mayor and Council.
Council Member Meehlhause reported he would be attending an NYFS Board meeting on
Thursday.
Council Member Meehlhause updated the Council on the Twin Cities Convention Bureau meeting
he attended two weeks ago noting the group approved the 2023 budget with an increase being
made to the payout to the member cities.
Council Member Cermak stated the Mounds View Police Foundation would be meeting at Random
Park on Tuesday, November 29 at 5:30 p.m. She noted this group would be discussing the
upcoming bake sale, which would be held on Saturday, December 3 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
in collaboration with the Mounds View Lions Waffle Breakfast.
Council Member Cermak reported the Santa Parade would be held on Tuesday, December 6
beginning at 6:30 p.m.
Council Member Cermak stated Shop with a Cop would be held on Wednesday, December 14.
Council Member Cermak explained the Swearing in of the new SBM Fire Chief would occur on
Monday, December 19 at Station 3 at 6:30 p.m.
Council Member Hull requested staff speak with Mr. Kaden to see if there was something the City
could do to address the safety concerns along Spring Lake Road. City Administrator Zikmund
recommended the Council discuss this matter further at a future worksession meeting and noted
he would follow up with Public Works Director Peterson tomorrow.
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Mayor Mueller thanked all of the residents that share the spirit of the season by decorating their
homes with lights.
Mayor Mueller encouraged residents who have additional capacity in their budget to consider
making a donation to the Ralph Reeder Food Shelf. She noted donations could also be made to the
food shelf during the Santa Parade.
Mayor Mueller stated she would be attending a Ramsey County League of Local Government
meeting on Thursday, December 15.
Mayor Mueller commented on the recent edition of the Mounds View Matters.
B. Reports of Staff.
Finance Director Beer reported the Council would be holding a Truth In Taxation Hearing on
Monday, December 5. He was pleased to report the proposed tax levy had come in at 4.98%,
which was one of the lowest increases in Ramsey County.
Community Development Director Sevald explained the rental license renewal deadline was
November 30 and noted staff would be working on this with rental property owners to bring them
into compliance.
Community Development Director Sevald reported the City would be going live with the new
permitting software in February of 2023.
City Administrator Zikmund commented staff finalized the precautionary boil alert report and this
information was in the Council’s mailboxes. He noted this information would also be posted on
the City’s website and social media.
City Administrator Zikmund indicated he met with Metro I-Net today.
City Administrator Zikmund reported staff had a productive meeting with Marty Haarstad
regarding the infield project.
City Administrator Zikmund explained the afternoon receptionist began with the City today and
made a good impression on staff.
City Administrator Zikmund reviewed the items that would be discussed by the Council at the
Monday, December 5 worksession meeting.
C. Reports of City Attorney.
City Attorney Riggs had nothing additional to report.
10. Next Council Work Session: Monday, December 5, 2022, at 6:30 p.m.
Truth in Taxation Hearing: Monday, December 5, 2022, at 6:00 p.m.
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Regular Meeting Page 18
Next Council Meeting: Monday, December 12, 2022, at 6:30 p.m.
11. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 10:42 p.m.
Transcribed by:
Heidi Guenther
Minute Maker Secretarial