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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 2006/02/27PROCEEDINGS OF THE MOUNDS VIEW CITY COUNCIL • CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA r, APPROVED .~~~~ 6~ Regular Meeting February 27, 2006 New Brighton City Hall 803 Old Highway 8, New Brighton, MN 55112 7:00 P.M. 1. MEETING IS CALLED TO ORDER 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. ROLL CALL: Marry, Stigney, Gunn, Flaherty, and Thomas NOT PRESENT: 4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA A. Monday, February 27, 2006 City Council Agenda MOTION/SECOND: THOMAS/FLAHERTY. To Approve the Monday, February 27, 2006 agenda as presented. Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried. 5. PUBLIC INPUT David Jahnke, 8428 Eastwood Road, stated many give advice but only the wise prophet from it. 6. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUISNESS A. Resolution 6720, a Resolution of Appreciation for Frank Silvis of the Park and Recreation Commission for 25 Years of Service. MOTION/SECOND: MARTY/FLAHERTY. To Approve Resolution 6720, a Resolution of Appreciation for Frank Silvis of the Park and Recreation Commission for 25 Years of Service. Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried. Mounds View City Council February 27, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 2 l~ u Mayor Many presented Mr. Frank Silvis with a plaque of Resolution 6720 from the City of Mounds View in the County of Ramsey in the State of Minnesota. Mayor Marry read the Resolution to Mr. Silvis. Mr. Silvis stated he would add the plaque to his other awards. Mayor Marty stated he had no idea Mr. Silvis had been serving the City this long, and with the exception of a few City employees, he believes he may be the longest volunteer in this City. Mr. Silvis stated he has been diagnosed with cancer and that is one reason why he did not renew his volunteer status. He stated it has been fun, exciting and rewarding and thanked the City for the award. 7. COUNCIL BUSINESS A. 7:05 p.m. Public Hearing and Consideration of Resolution 6734 Approving an Amendment to the Belting Office PUD. Mayor Marty opened the public hearing at 7:06 p.m. Community Development Director Ericson explained the City Council approved a Resolution which approved a single story, 8,300 square foot development for Dr. Greg Belting. He stated the resolution of approval identified a condition of cross access shared parking with Walgreens that has been difficult to overcome. He stated Dr. Belting attempted to secure such an arrangement, but the owner of site would not consent to anything in writing. He stated the management at the Walgreens store stated that off the record, they would not have a problem with cars parking in the site. Director Ericson explained that the Belting site plans show 43 parking stalls and that would be seven short from what is required of code. He stated because it is a PUD, there is some flexibility allowed for parking and there was intent to have a shared parking arrangement in this development. He explained the PUD originally called for 43 stalls which is provided. Director Ericson pointed out that Dr. Belting has provided a site plan complying with the PUD document for the site. He commented that the original use for the site is a restaurant, and the office building will have much less parking demand. He stated that the parking provided as shown in the site plan will be sufficient. Director Ericson stated this item was brought to the Planning Commission, where approval of the 43 parking stalls was recommended. He commented the parking ratio is one stall per 200 square feet of space. Director Ericson offered to answer questions and mentioned Dr. Belting and his brother Tom Belting are present to answer any questions. Mounds View City Council February 27, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 3 Ma or M closed the ublic hearin at 7:10 .m. Y ~3' p g p MOTION/SECOND: GUNN/STIGNEY. To waive the reading and adopt Resolution 6734 Approving an Amendment to the Belting Office PUD. Councilmember Thomas stated she is in favor of going ahead with the site; however, she stated she had some frustrations as to what will happen in the future because nothing is recommended. She stated the Council is well aware of what has happened in strictly office facilities where the parking has become a problem when users change. She stated that applying a variance here that allows no flexibility in the future is a problem, and is not addressed with this situation. She commented that the variance does not help if it is a problem in future, and thought the City had discussed having that exploration taken place. She stressed she does not expect the Belting site to have a problem, but the future use could be a problem. Councilmember Flaherty echoed Councilmember Thomas' comments, and does not believe there will be an issue with the Belting site, but questions the future. He stated he would like to see the Resolution tied to ownership to Dr. Belting specific, and the issue could be readdressed if there is a change of ownership in the future. Director Ericson stated the Council and Staff certainly would recommend this, but the Council has the ability to bring back for consideration any conditional use permit or PUD if there is something that is not functioning the way it should. Director Ericson stated the situation will be monitored over time, and since the City's property is adjacent to the north, the City will be paying attention to any parking problems, as would Walgreens. He stressed the City is adequately protected and can bring back the Resolution at any point if there are problems. Councilmember Thomas stated she would be comfortable if there was an amendment to the language that provides a clear statement that approval is contingent should there be any issue in the future with inadequate parking regardless of owner. Councilmember Thomas offered a friendly amendment to add language indicating: "the PUD approval is contingent should there be any issue in the future with inadequate parking regardless of owner." Councilmembers Gunn and Stigney accepted this friendly amendment. Councilmember Stigney asked City Attorney Riggs if this amendment could be added. City Attorney Riggs responded that Councilmember Thomas' comments could be put into the words of the Resolution. Councilmember Thomas asked if this amendment would be attached to the PUD variance approval. City Attorney Riggs stated it is and would be able to be revisited if the condition is not satisfied. Mounds View City Council February 27, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 4 Councilmember Gunn stated because of the parking restrictions, any business that comes into this building will look at parking options. She commented she does not think there will be any tenants that will need 50 parking spots. She stated she was not too concerned about cutting down the parking to 43 stalls. Mayor Marty stated he was also not that concerned, as there are additional unused parking spaces around the immediate area. He commented in one previous situation, the user of the building changed from the original plans, and it has been a parking issue ever since. He stated there have been complaints from residents on the street that people were parking in front of their homes and "no parking" signs had to be put up. Director Ericson suggested a language change to the Resolution that would state "...subject to Council reconsideration if parking becomes an issue at any point in the future." Councilmember Thomas stressed that this does not have anything to do with the current owners, but for future owners only. Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried. B. 7:10 p.m. Public Hearing and Consideration of Resolution 6748 Approving a Preliminary Plat for the Hidden Hollow South Major Subdivision at 3049 Wooddale Drive. Mayor Marty opened the public hearing at 7:18 p.m. Planning Associate Heller explained this Resolution is for approval of a preliminary plat for a proposed major subdivision, Hidden Hollows South, located at 3049 Wooddale Drive. She stated that the applicant, Dan Saplis, is proposing to create six buildable lots from the existing two lots. She explained the property is on the western edge of the City, and the site is currently zoned R-1, Single Family Residential, and the subdivision would remain zoned R-1 with six family homes. She noted the proposal meets the minimum requirements for lot size. She stated R-1 zoning is consistent with the Comp Plan. Planning Associate Heller stated in regard to the local water management plan, the project is located in the Spring Creek 4sub-watershed, and they are recommending a minimum elevation above the City's recommendation. Planning Associate Heller noted in regard to the drainage plan, there have been some issues over the years because fill was brought in to the lot for several years, which caused the level of the lot to be much higher than the surrounding properties. She explained this caused drainage in neighbors' rear yards. She stated this new development would bring down the lot to be more consistent with the rest of the lots. She referenced the proposed pond on the development, and stated it will be the same level as the neighboring property to east, and this should help with drainage issues. She stated drainage will work together with Hidden Hollow on the north end, instead of a separate drain for each development, and that hopefully this will solve the problems Mounds View City Council February 27, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 5 for all parties involved. Planning Associate Heller explained that easements have been dedicated along the street, and before the final plat approval, easements will need to be dedicated for access to the pond area from the street to maintain the pond. She commented Public Works widened the streets per Staff recommendation to allow for street parking. She explained the street was widened from 24 feet to 34 feet, and the cul-de-sac was widened from 45 to 47 feet. Planning Associate Heller explained that the cul-de-sac is not located as far north. She explained that by moving the street farther south, this will help one of the homes to be located farther from the wetland area. Planning Associate Heller explained there are park dedication fees required with this project since there are six new homes to be built. She stated the fee is based on 10 percent of the land value. She mentioned utilities already exist on the site which is why the developer has decided to put the street on the western boundary. She commented traffic should not be increased too much because there are only six homes proposed. She explained at an average of 10 vehicle trips per day per home, there would be 60 extra movements on Wooddale Drive. Planning Associate Heller stated there is not a lot of quality vegetation on the site, and Staff recommends to save as many fir trees as possible. She stated there are no wetlands on the site according to the City, but there is one according to Rice Creek Watershed District. She commented that hopefully it will not have to be filled in. She commented the drainage will run into the wetland for one lot and the rest of lots will run into the pond area which is more of a basin at this point. Planning Associate Heller explained there were five soil test borings put down on the site, and fill was encountered at the surface of all borings. She stated the quality of the fill brought in has been in question, and some of it will need to be removed and replaced with better quality fill as the development happens. She stated it would help the neighborhood when the site gets leveled off. Planning Associate Heller stated there were neighborhood discussions prior to the Planning Commission meeting, and commented that the main concern was drainage issues. Planning Associate Heller stated Staff and the Planning Commission recommend approval of this Resolution. Mayor Marty opened the public hearing at 7:27 p.m. Mayor Marty closed the public hearing at 7:27 p.m. Councilmember Stigney asked if the neighborhood issues have been addressed. Planning Associate Heller commented that the applicant talked to some of the neighbors, and once residents realized that the new homes would not be put on the current fill, and the drainage would be consolidated between the original Hidden Hollow development and this new development, the neighbors felt more comfortable that the problems will be corrected. Mounds View City Council February 27, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 6 Plannin Associate Heller mentioned the a licant and builder are resent to answer an g Pp P Y questions. Mayor Marty stated he has been hearing from different residents in the area for a number of years about the quality of fill and the construction debris, including concrete and asphalt, that was initially put own. He commented a few years ago, some of the spoils from the street projects were put in and built up. He stated he has received resident concerns about the amount of fill from street projects. He commented the fill level has been built up high and asked if it is going to be brought down, and if the pond will be relatively level with the existing yards. Planning Associate Heller responded that the pond will be at same level with the neighboring property. She stated at the edge it will be the same level within a couple of inches. Mayor Marty stated on the soil borings, it was noted that the fill thickness varied from five to ten feet. He stated it seems the area has been overfilled and there is not much topsoil either. He asked if all this is going to be addressed. Planning Associate Heller stated it will, and the soil boring picture shows not high quality fill, so some things will have to be removed by the developer. Mayor Marty referenced the Resolution where it states the applicant should take all steps to save any significant trees during construction, and commented it seems like a lot of the trees are scrub trees. He asked if there is any way the City Forester can try to mark the trees that are worth saving. He stated he has seen in past with different developments where similar language is put into the Resolution and the construction company cuts down all the trees. He stated that replacing a 10-15 year old tree with a two to four inch tree is losing a lot of tree. He asked if the City Forester could work with the developer to see if there are any good trees to work around. Mayor Marty stated he wanted to confirm that all residents' concerns were addressed. Planning Associate Heller stated she and the developer have talked to several residents on many occasions, and stressed that drainage was the major concern. She stated residents have been satisfied once they realize the pond will be on the same level as the other yards, and that the City will address the ponding in the whole area, drainage and wetlands. She added the drainage issues in the past have not affected any homes, but only the back halves of yards. Councilmember Flaherty expressed his gratitude to the Planning Commission for getting all of the information required. He asked if the developer is going to pursue the connection of the walkway. Planning Associate Heller stated the developer has not done anything with it at this point. She stated it would be a nice connection to County Road H2. Mayor Marty stated there is an access road built on the west side of Hidden Hollow, and he Mounds View City Council February 27, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 7 would like to see the walkway be incorporated in this project. Director Ericson stated it is a great idea to tie in projects to the existing trail system, and if the Council is interested is expanding the trail system to include a linkage to County Road H2 south to the development, he would like to have Director of Public Works Lee comment on that. He stated he does believe the builder for Hidden Hollow to the north had some issues with providing a trail there that they did not support. He stated maybe there could be some discussion, but would rather not tie it to this resolution. Mayor Marty asked Director of Public Works Lee if he could look into that, as it would be an amenity for the neighborhoods in the area. He recalled somewhat of a discussion in the past that the developer did not want people traipsing around their neighborhood. He stated in the City's experience, trailways will be used if they are built. MOTION/SECOND: FLAHERTY/GLTNN. To waive the reading and adopt Resolution 6748 Approving a Preliminary Plat for the Hidden Hollow South Major Subdivision at 3049 Wooddale Drive. Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried. C. 7:15 p.m. Public Hearing and Consideration of Resolution 6756 Approving the Feasibility Report, Ordering the Project, Authorizing Plan and Specifications, Authorizing Easement Preparation Activities for the Silver Lake Road Sidewalk Improvement Project. Mayor Marty opened the public hearing at 7:39 p.m. Director of Public Works Lee explained the need for a pedestrian walkway along Silver Lake Road was identified many years ago and included in the Comp Plan of the City. He stated the need was amplified a couple of years ago when the school district changed the bussing policy and required students to walk to school if they lived within two miles of the school. He stated the Council authorized a report to look into the feasibility for putting in a sidewalk along Silver Lake Road from County Road H to County Road I. Director of Public Works Lee explained the project is to construct a 6 '/2 foot wide concrete sidewalk starting from County Road H going north to Silver View Park. He stated there are wetlands along the east side of Silver Lake Road and is proposed to change to a eight foot wide bituminous trailway to go into the park and come back out onto Silver Lake Road and connect at the intersection of County Road I and Silver Lake Road. Director of Public Works Lee commented that on the north and south side of this location, there is already a concrete sidewalk on the east side, so it was first looked at the preference being on the east side to keep it contiguous. He explained there are wetlands through the segment between County Road H & County Road H2 which makes it difficult to put in a sidewalk. He stated the feasibility report looked at putting a sidewalk also on the west side from County Road H to Mounds View City Council February 27, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 8 County Road H2. Director of Public Works Lee stated the estimated cost to put the sidewalk on the east side of the road is $521,000 or $368,000 on the west side of the road. He stated this does not include any easement or land acquisition that may be needed. He stated the funding source is not identified yet, and pointed out there is a possibility of using TIF, but indicated that Staff is looking for direction from the Council. Director of Public Works Lee explained he received 16 letters after the neighborhood informational meeting, with twelve residents in favor of the project, three residents were opposed to the project, and one resident was dependent on the type of project the City goes forward with. He added that nine residents favor the east side while two residents favor the west side. Director of Public Works Lee reviewed the tentative schedule of the proposal. He also reviewed the set of issues that Staff is looking for direction on from the Council, which include the sidewalk being on the east side versus the west side for the segment between County Road H and County Road H2, the pathway along the road through the park area that was not studied as part of the feasibility report, the safety and security concerns that may be remedied by adding lighting in the park area, and the sidewalk along the driveway entrance into Silver View Park. Director of Public Works Lee presented and reviewed an air photo of the park. Director of Public Works Lee ex lained the five action ste s are to a rove the feasibili re ort p p Pp tY P hold a public hearing, order the project, order plans and specifications, and authorize the start of easement document preparation. Laurie Flygare, 5072 Silver Lake Road, stated that she favors the sidewalk on the east side of Silver Lake Road. She stated she was surprised the time line was expanded and was under the understanding that TIF funds had already been selected for the project, but this does not seem to be accurate. She stated she would like the funding sources to be identified before going forward. Ms. Flygare stated she is concerned about parking and would like to know where residents are supposed to park. She commented the road behind is quite dark. She asked where the mailboxes will be. She stated she is concerned about the walkway going through the park area, and commented she would walk on the street if she was forced to walk through the park. She added the Council should address the lighting issue. Ms. Flygare suggested the City work out something with Ramsey County in regard to the parking. She commented there were four homes in a row with new driveways within the last year and a half. She stated she was concerned with having the area tore up. She added there was some satisfaction as the contractor told residents they would take good care to replace the concrete with the same or better grade. She asked if there is something that can be done with Ramsey County to give a lane to park on and take a lane going north if the sidewalk is put on the east side. She commented a resident with multiple vehicles may not have enough room to park. Mounds View City Council February 27, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 9 • President Marty stated he went through the forms that were submitted, and he thinks it is a valid point about parking. He commented the City should probably see how quickly that can be done and talk with Ramsey County to possibly close off a lane for a few days. Director of Public Works Lee stated Staff would work with Ramsey County to see what options are available. He added there are a variety of construction techniques that could be used, such as building the sidewalk in sections so it only affects one driveway at a time. Brian Amundsen, 3048 Wooddale Drive, stated he lives west of the development, and is very concerned about safety along Silver Lake Road. He suggested contacting the school to see if there are students that need to walk to school, and wondered where they are going to cross. He commented it would be very difficult to cross at Woodcrest or Wooddale because they are not striped crossings, so people have to go south to County Road H or up to County Road H2 on Knollwood. He stated for students moving west to east, they are going to hit Silver Lake Road and want to go to the sidewalk on the east side. He stated it is a question that could be easily answered by contacting the school district to find out how many students there are and their ages to determine whether or not there is a sidewalk issue for students. Mr. Amundsen wondered if the sidewalk is constructed on the east side, and if there is a potential development north of Woodcrest Park. He wondered if that land is already easement land. He noted the feasibility study talked about filling the ditch and creating a new ditch beyond that, which encroaches more on that property. He stated he assumed that there would be significant costs with acquisition of land from the developer that wants to fill in wetlands. Mr. Amundsen asked if the Council had any feedback from the Parks & Recreation Commission regarding the utilization and the future of Woodcrest Park itself. He stated a number of years ago, some of the park was turned back into wetland. He stated the feasibility report discussed turning more of the park into wetland and eventually eliminating Woodcrest Park. Mr. Amundsen added his wife supports the sidewalk on the east side so it is one continuous path from County Road H to County Road I. He stated there are lots of facts and details to look into to support a specific plan. He asked if what is being approved tonight has to be east or west and if it is the final answer or if there will be a future opportunity to hear what will be found as a result of the information gathering. Mayor Marty stated he has contacted Paul Good at Sunnyside School in the past to get some of the data. He stated he has been trying to get the stop light at County Road H and Silver Lake Road put in and a there is a sidewalk or trailway on the north side of County Road H. He stated that he would encourage children to go south on the street to join up with the trailway on County Road H. He commented that hopefully there will be a signal at County Road H and Silver Lake Road to make it a controlled intersection and a safer crossing all around. Mayor Marty stated the developer north of Woodcrest Park has received approval, but has not come in for permits. Mounds View City Council February 27, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 10 Mayor Marty stated in regard to the funding source, the Council has talked about it in the past and does not want an assessment to residents and property owners. He added the Council had talked about funding it entirely with TIF. Mayor Marty stated in regard to water retention at Woodcrest Park, there was not have ponding a number of years ago, and the park buildings were always sinking. He commented that it was determined that the piece of property was unusable for any type of structure, and that is why it was converted to a wetland area. Mayor Marty stated by doing so, this created more wetland than what was there, so the City would be given some credits for the wetlands. He stated with the creation of the sidewalk, it is assumed the City would have enough wetland credits so that there would not have to be any additional digging. He stated the City does not plan on building a bigger pond or anything of that sort. Councilmember Flaherty stated his initial thought was to put the sidewalk on the east side as a continuation of the existing sidewalks. He stated he did not know if kids will cross to the west side to continue to use the trail or just go down the street. He stated he lives around the area and does see a lot of children on Silver Lake Road and it really is a safety issue. Councilmember Flaherty stated he does agree with Ms. Flygare in regard to the safety of walking through the park. He stated it looks nice to go through the wooded areas, but he has concern with people walking into woods. He stated he prefers to continue down Silver Lake Road and pick up • County Road I along the sidewalk. Director of Public Works Lee stated it is a possibility to keep the sidewalk on the east side of Silver Lake Road. He stated it would probably cost an additional $250,000 more to put the sidewalk through that segment and adjacent to County Road I. Councilmember Thomas stated the park closes at 10 p.m. so there is no one there and lights would not help, so she is concerned with residents going through the park. She stated she is leaning more towards the east side. She stated she does not think that any trailways should be discussed without talking about striping the crosswalks. -She stated it does not really matter what side it is going to be put on, people are going to be crossing the street. Councilmember Gunn stated she also has concerns about residents walking through the park, as there have been some problems with kids and adults hanging out in the woods at night. She asked Police Chief Sommer for his opinion of having the trailway through the woods. Police Chief Sommer stated he agrees with the concerns, although it is the perception versus the reality of running into problems. He commented people do have that perception, so it is a valid concern. Director of Public Works Lee stated there currently is a trailway system that runs through Silverview Park. Councilmember Stigney stated that if there is a sidewalk, he would not want to detour and go Mounds View City Council February 27, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 11 through the park to get to where he is going. He commented this is impractical, and if there is a sidewalk, it should go straight down the road. Councilmember Flaherty stated that he is anxious to get the project going, and suggested the sidewalk between County Road H and County Road I be tabled so that a plan can get going. Director of Public Works Lee stated the schedule for the project is tight, and if the Council wants to look into a sidewalk adjacent to the road south of County Road I, the plans and specifications can be ordered for the sidewalk south of County Road H2. He stated the consultant can add it on to the feasibility report and both segments could be worked on together so there is no time lost. Mayor Marty stated he received a resident e-mail to keep the sidewalk on the same side. He commented the resident thought that the trail was not done well by Lexington Avenue and there is no continuity. He stated another resident was concerned about a decrease in property value. Mayor Marty commented it seems like the sidewalk would increase the property value because the area is made more accessible and more of an amenity. Mayor Marty stated that many residents want a sidewalk because Silver Lake Road is not safe and not a pedestrian friendly road. He stated the Council had discussions regarding a walkway or trailway along Silver Lake Road and had promised it back in Fall 1994, which was twelve years ago. Mayor Marty stressed a sidewalk is needed to provide public safety and an access point for • residents. Councilmember Thomas questioned the driveway and yard sloping issues with retaining walls and asked how many residents would. have this issue. Director of Public Works Lee stated as part of putting together the plans and specifications, it will provide what the impact on the properties will be. He stated the details will be forthcoming, and Staff can work with the property owners at the time when the plans and specifications being put together. Councilmember Thomas asked if there are any approximations as to how many homes would be affected. Director of Public Works Lee stated assumptions were built into the feasibility study in terms of what to do with the slopes. He stated it was taken into account but the exact magnitude is unknown. Councilmember Thomas stated what is not in the report is how many assumptions were done for east versus west for homes. She stated she is concerned about the impacts on each homeowner. Director of Public Works Lee stated it has been done for both the east and west sides, but exact detail for each home is not known. Mayor Marty commented there are some mature trees and wondered if the sidewalk could Mounds View City Council February 27, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 12 meander around them, but it could be more of an adverse affect for the homeowners. He suggested the City could try and work out a way if a tree has to be taken out by perhaps replacing it with two to three other trees to create a screening area if the property owners wanted. Councilmember Gunn asked what would happen if the property owner wanted to save their trees and is willing to have the sidewalk go around it. Director of Public Works Lee replied it is a possibility, but with the slopes in certain areas and the farther away from the road the sidewalk is, there will be more of an impact to the front yards. He commented the City has been successful with past projects, and will work closely with property owners with this project to meet both the needs and expectations of the property owners as well as the needs of the City in the future. MOTION/SECOND: MARTY/FLAHERTY. To waive the reading and adopt Resolution 6756 Approving the Feasibility Report, Ordering the Project, Authorizing Plan and Specifications, Authorizing Easement Preparation Activities for the Silver Lake Road Sidewalk Improvement Project. Mayor Marty closed the public hearing at 8:11 p.m. Director of Public Works Lee asked if the Council wants the feasibility report to be amended to look into the feasibility of having the sidewalk on the east side of County Road I. He asked if further direction in terms of the lighting and asked if estimated costs should be included. The Council stated that it should. Councilmember Stigney asked if the sidewalk would not detour through the park, and whether it will be either a concrete or bituminous surface, if it would be advantageous to look at what a wooden structure would be going through there. Director of Public Works Lee stated he did not know offhand what the exact dollars are, but it was discussed earlier on when the feasibility report was studied. He explained it was astronomical compared to what is planned now for both construction and maintenance. Councilmember Stigney stated it is also expensive to straighten out the trail, so it would not hurt to calculate the cost of the wooden structure since it would have less impact on the wetlands. Director of Public Works Lee responded Staff can give a rough approximation. Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried. D. Consideration of Resolution 6749 Approving an Expansion of the C.G. Hill & Sons Building at 5150 Quincy Street. • Planning Associate Heller stated this Resolution is for an expansion of the C.G. Hill & Sons Mounds View City Council February 27, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 13 Building on 5150 Quincy Street that would provide a 50 percent increase in building space. She stated the business has an opportunity to add large equipment and expand the business. Planning Associate Heller stated the property is zoned Planned Unit Development (PUD) which meets the requirements of the project. She stated the building was constructed in 1994 and had planned for this exact expansion so electrical and plumbing are roughed in. Planning Associate Heller stated there are 79 parking stalls currently on the site, and there is some space to construct 11 more to bring the total to 90 more. She explained this is less than what is typically required in an industrial area. She stated there are currently 48 employees and parking has never been an issue. She stated over the next ten years, there may be a maximum of 60 employees, and the business needs space for equipment and not more employees. Planning Associate Heller commented the setback is not changing, and the building is expanding to within of the 32 feet of the east of the property line. She stated a 40 foot setback is typically required, but Staff does not feel a 32 foot setback would pose a problem. She stated the back of the building would be moving closer to the back of Bethlehem Baptist Church. Planning Associate Heller stated Staff and Planning Commission recommend this proposal. Planning Associate Heller stated the applicant is present to answer questions. • Councilmember Flahe stated that an time a business within the communi has the rtY Y tY opportunity to grow and is asking for more space, it is a good thing for the City. He stated he was in favor of the proposal. Councilmember Gunn agreed. Councilmember Thomas asked if similar language could be added regarding parking requirements to have the PUD brought back for discussion if there are any issues in the future. Mayor Marty stated that this is an expansion which would increase the property value and the possibly hire more employees, and sees this as a definite plus. Councilmember Thomas offered a friendly amendment to add language indicating: "the PUD approval is contingent should there be any issue in the future with inadequate parking regardless of owner." Councilmember Gunn accepted this friendly amendment. MOTION/SECOND: GUNN/THOMAS. To waive the reading and adopt Resolution 6749 Approving an Expansion of the C.G. Hill & Sons Building at 5150 Quincy Street. Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried. Mounds View City Council February 27, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 14 E. Resolution 6754 Approving the Amended and Restated Development Agreement and Modification to the Business Subsidy Agreement for the Medtronic CRM Project. Economic Development Coordinator Backman offered to answer any questions. Mayor Marty stated there was discussion on several items in the EDA meeting, and suggested that anyone interested should replay the EDA meeting. He stated there was no need to go back over and have the same discussion. MOTION/SECOND: STIGNEY/GUNN. To waive the reading and adopt Resolution 6754 Approving the Amended and Restated Development Agreement and Modification to the Business Subsidy Agreement for the Medtronic CRM Project. Ayes - 4 Nays - 1 (Marty) Motion carried. F. Resolution 6751 Authorizing Merrick Inc. to conduct Charitable Gambling at Robert's Sports Bar and Entertainment. Assistant to the City Administrator Crane explained that Merrick, Inc. is anon-profit charitable organization that would like to continue to hold charitable gambling on a permanent basis at . Robert's Sports Bar and Entertainment located at 2400 County Road H2, in the City of Mounds View. Assistant to the City Administrator Crane stated the focus of the non-profit is to provide employment services to adults with developmental disabilities. She stated Merrick, Inc. has existed since 1964 and has 30 active members, which meets the requirements of the Mounds View City Code. Assistant to the City Administrator Crane stated Staff recommends approval of Resolution 6751 authorizing a Premise Permit to permit Charitable Gambling for Merrick, Inc. Assistant to the City Administrator Crane mentioned that Merrick, Inc. is present to answer any questions about contributions to the trade area. Councilmember Flaherty asked if everything is payable to Merrick, Inc. Assistant to the City Administrator Crane said it is. Councilmember Flaherty asked if the City has access to additional information in terms of the clients that live in the City. He asked if the City could confirm those numbers if it wanted to. John Barker, Merrick, Inc., Chief Executive Officer, stated the company has 60 clients who reside or work within the City of Mounds View and its trade area. He stated he is unable to give specific names, but addresses can be verified with Staff at any time. Mounds View City Council February 27, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 15 Councilmember Thomas stated it would be helpful to the Council if Staff could go through the list and provide verification along with the documentation. Mayor Marty asked if it is a two year license. Assistant to the City Administrator Crane stated it is. MOTION/SECOND: THOMAS/FLAHERTY. To waive the reading and adopt Resolution 6751 Authorizing Merrick Inc. to conduct Charitable Gambling at Robert's Sports Bar and Entertainment. Mayor Marty echoed Councilmember Thomas comments' that it is hard to justify all the checks to Merrick, Inc. without the verification. He stated he would like to see this and while everything is probably fine, it has not been verified by the City. Mr. Barker stated he understood it is a unique situation in Mounds View, but commented that Merrick, Inc. is used to providing that information and would be happy to provide it to Staff. Mayor Marty stated organizations with charitable gambling in the City of Mounds View provide a list of where the expenditures are going that is clear cut and easy to understand. Ayes - 4 Nays - 1 (Marty) Motion carried. G. Resolution 6750 Ste Increases for Mark Beer finance Director Jodi P ~ )~ Salmonson (Receptionist), Heidi Heller (Planning Associate), and John Hughes (Community Center Custodian). Assistant to the City Administrator Crane explained a step increase wage adjustment is recommended for Mark Beer, Jodi Salmonson, Heidi Heller and John Hughes that is consistent with the Personnel Manual and Labor Agreements. MOTION/SECOND: FLAHERTY/THOMAS. To waive the reading and adopt Resolution 6750 Step Increases for Mark Beer (Finance Director), Jodi Salmonson (Receptionist), Heidi Heller (Planning Associate), and John Hughes (Community Center Custodian). Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried. H. Resolution 6752 Approving an Amended Joint Powers Agreement and Assigning an Alternate to the I-35 Board. City Administrator Ulrich explained the I-35W Board of Directors recently adopted revisions to the joint powers agreement that require the City to adopt the amended version and name an elected official to serve as an alternate voting member of the organization. He stated he and Mayor Marty currently serve on the Board of Directors and the Board would like another elected official named to be the alternate to come to the meetings when they can and also be an alternate voting member when the elected official (Mayor Marty) cannot make it. He stated this was to Mounds View City Council February 27, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 16 create participation by elected officials and to make it a stronger organization by having an elected alternate. City Administrator Ulrich stated Staff recommends approval of Resolution 6752. Mayor Marty thought Councilmember Gunn was an alternate. Councilmember Gunn stated she was a long time ago and it was stopped for awhile. Mayor Marty asked for volunteers. Councilmember Thomas volunteered to be an alternate voting member. MOTION/SECOND: GUNN/FLAHERTY. To waive the reading and adopt Resolution 6752 Approving an Amended Joint Powers Agreement and Assigning Councilmember Thomas to the I-35 Board. Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried. I. Resolution 6755 Awarding a Construction Contract for the Groveland Park Building Replacement Project. • Director of Public Works Lee stated thirteen bids were received for the Groveland Park Building Replacement Project. He stated that the low bid was submitted by DNR Construction, Inc. for the total estimated cost of $231,900. He stated this is less than the bid was last year. He stated the Park and Recreation Committee recommends going forward with the project, and recommends going forward with Bid Alternate A for the air conditioning unit. Director of Public Works Lee stated it is recommended the Council approve Resolution 6755 Awarding a Construction Contract for the Groveland Park Building Replacement Project. Mayor Marty stated this is for a concrete block building and asked if $14,000 from TKDA was included in last year's bid, and it was so it is in line. He stated he is very happy that the City re- bid this project due to the fact that construction costs and rates go up each year. He stated it was very prudent to re-bid this project. Councilmember Thomas asked why the bid is lower than last year. Director of Public Works Lee stated the two biggest reasons are a change in specifications with a larger window to do the construction in, and the targeting of smaller residential builders that focus in on these projects. He stated the combination of those two helped lower the total bid. MOTION/SECOND: THOMAS/GUNN. To waive the reading and adopt Resolution 6755 Awarding a Construction Contract for the Groveland Park Building Replacement Project. Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried. Mounds View City Council February 27, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 17 J. Resolution 6757 A rovin Chan a Orders No. 4-6 and Authorizin PP g g g Initiation of HVAC Changes for the City Hall Rehabilitation Project. Director of Public Works Lee reviewed Change Orders 4-6. He explained Change Order 4 is a credit of $1,193 back to the City for the elimination of sheet rocking from the project. He explained Change Order 5 is for additional costs of $1,997 for changes in the millwork throughout the project. He explained Change Order 6 is for additional costs of $8,522 to remove a hardened concrete steel area within the Police area. Director of Public Works Lee reviewed changes in the HVAC system and explained it includes the replacement of three roof top units with one unit that needed a new control system. He reviewed five options for the wiring and control problem. He stated Staff is recommending the option to change the control system to DDC and replace RTU Number 6 for a cost of $27,353, and is looking for direction from the Council to move forward with this option. Director of Public Works Lee stated that five of the twelve heating coils within the air system need to be replaced. He stated Staff is recommending replacing all twelve at the same time at a cost of $11,255. Director of Public Works Lee stated the last item is for additional furniture required for one of the City offices that needs free-standing furniture. He stated this is due to a change in assignments for one of the City's employees. He stated the cost of this additional furniture is $2,105. Director of Public Works Lee stated it is recommended the Council approve Resolution 6757 Approving Change Orders 4-6 and Authorizing Initiation of HVAC Changes for the City Hall Rehabilitation Project. Councilmember Flaherty asked about the DDC controls in the HVAC improvements. He asked how the option was put into the initial system. He stated he did not recall getting the option between DDC and an analog control system which is considerably less expensive. He stated it makes sense if the City has the equipment and wants to bring up the other equipment that is compatible. Councilmember Flaherty stated he understands the tonnage is significantly over from what is required because there is no one down there and it is only used for storage. He commented the dew point has the tendency to get high in the area. He stated he did ask the question if there are other alternatives to replacing the new unit as opposed to changing out just the coils or putting other things on there that could do the job. Mayor Marty asked if the City is still on budget for the project with the contingency funds. Director of Public Works Lee stated it is and he would provide a summary of all changes to give a clear picture as to where the project is at. He stated it is clearly far below the budget of $1.6 Mounds View City Council February 27, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 18 million at this point. Mayor Marty stated he would like to see where the City stands as far as the budget. Director of Public Works Lee stated there should not be any surprises or other new things other than the items on the list of minor changes that was distributed at the last meeting. Mayor Many stated if the acid wash was going to be done on the entryway. Director of Public Works Lee stated it would be done on the mortar and bricks of the front entryway. He stated he was unsure of the schedule for doing that, but it is one of the things that to be completed. Councilmember Thomas asked what the result is if it does not match. She asked if there is a point that remuneration can be sought. Director of Public Works Lee stated he is investigating that. He stated he will verify to see that the product received was the same as the sample the architect authorized. He stated he was unsure what the legal recourse would be but will look into it. Councilmember Stigney asked if the sample was acid washed brick. Director of Public Works Lee stated it is. MOTION/SECOND: GiJNN/MARTY. To waive the reading and adopt Resolution 6757 • Approving Change Orders No. 4-6 and Authorizing Initiation of HVAC Changes for the City Hall Rehabilitation Project. Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried. 8. CONSENT AGENDA No items removed. A. Licenses for Approval B. Resolution 6753 Authority to Advertise and Recommend a Candidate for Hire for the Public Service Officer Position opening in the Police Department. MOTION/SECOND: THOMAS/FLAHERTY. To Approve the Consent Agenda as presented. Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried. 9. JUST AND CORRECT CLAIMS Councilmember Flaherty referenced Check #117975 to Force America, Inc., and asked what the vendor is providing. Finance Director Beer stated the City pays numerous invoices to them for public works. Director of Public Works Lee stated the check was for nozzles and attachments for the calcium chloride system for the trucks bought in the last two years. Mounds View City Council February 27, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 19 Councilmember Flahe referenced Check #117978 to ri fin P leum nvi rty G f etro Se ces, Inc. and stated this is for boarding up the windows and removal of the canopy as part of the abatement. Councilmember Flaherty referenced Check #117984 to Hydro Metering Technology, and asked what the vendor is providing. Director of Public Works Lee stated it is for the meter for Well Number 6 that is starting to fail. He commented that this is a budgeted item. Councilmember Flaherty asked if it is defective or broken. Director of Public Works Lee stated it is. MOTION/SECOND: FLAHERTY/THOMAS. To approve the Just and Correct Claims as presented. Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried. 10. APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. February 13, 2006 City Council Meeting Minutes MOTION/SECOND: GUNK/STIGNEY. To Approve the February 13, 2006 City Council meeting minutes as corrected. Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried. 11. REPORTS A. Reports of Mayor and Council Councilmember Flaherty stated he attended the Ramsey County League of Local Governments meeting with City Administrator Ulrich, where it was "Meet the Legislators" night. He commented there were several legislators that spoke about the upcoming session starting March 1, 2006. He stated the legislators promised they would get done on time this year as opposed to previous years, because it is not a budget session. He stated bonding issues are the number one issue to take care of. He added it was a nice opportunity to meet the senators and representatives. City Administrator Ulrich added that all but one of the representatives and senators come from local government as Councilmembers or Mayor, and stated they would not forget the City of Mounds View. Councilmember Flaherty added a few of the Ramsey County Commissioners were also in attendance at the meeting. Councilmember Thomas commented that when Senator Betzhold was at the last Council meeting, he talked about the Medtronic language necessary for the corrections to the bill. She stated it is up for hearing on the first day of the session in the House. Mounds View City Council February 27, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 20 City Administrator Ulrich stated he plans on being in attendance, and added that Ramsey County is carrying the bill because it in regard to County Road J and will testify for it. B. Reports of Staff 1. Reports of City Administrator City Administrator Ulrich stated Director Ericson provided a memo in regard to the Library Task Force and they did make a recommendation of four possible alternatives. He stated they would be discussed by the Library Task Force at a retreat on March 1, 2006. He stated three out of four of the alternatives are positive for Mounds View, and one is more for a regional type library. City Administrator read the four alternatives, which included: 1) Consolidate staff and resources from the libraries in Arden Hills and Mounds View to build one larger area library; 2) Maintain two smaller libraries by constructing one in Arden Hills and leaving Mounds View as is; 3) Build a new library on the current Arden Hills site, maintain the current Mounds View library, and expand the Shoreview library to meet future growth; and 4) Build a new library on the current Arden Hills site, build a new library on the Arden Hills site and build a new library in Silver Lake Village in St. Anthony. City Administrator Ulrich reported that these four alternatives will be discussed at the library board on March 1, 2006. City Administrator suggested the Council should pass a motion supporting one of these four alternates, if it felt strongly about one of them. Councilmember Thomas suggested a letter of support could be drafted to indicate support of the Mounds View Community Library. MOTION/SECOND: THOMAS/MARTY. To draft a letter of support for the Mounds View Community Library. Ayes - 5 Nays - 0 Motion carried. City Administrator Ulrich stated there was a position paper on eminent domain put out by North Metro Mayors which the Council could provide comments on. He stated it is consistent with how the legislator spoke last week in regard to eminent domain. He stated the North Metro Mayors position is one to urge that wise decisions are made and listen to what the needs of the communities are that may need to use eminent domain and what the positive aspects are. He stated the legislators commented that they would certainly take that into account and this reiterates that fact that there are valid reasons for using eminent domain. He stated private property rights are important, but attention should also be given to what the City needs eminent domain for and there are valid reasons for pursuing that in certain cases. City Administrator Ulrich presented the report on the Bethlehem Baptist Church Mounds View Service Project Fund, where $13,005 is proposed to be distributed. He reported that Bethlehem Baptist Church has been working with Staff as well as the Park and Recreation Commission to Mounds View City Council February 27, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 21 determine where the funds should be distributed. He reviewed that the Bethlehem Baptist Church contributes to the community each year as part of the agreement in the conditional use permit to use their building for the church. He stated that the Council could comment if it felt strongly that any of these items should not be funded. Mayor Marty stated he had no problem with any of the different funding areas chosen. Councilmember Gunn stated she received a call from Cindy Palm from the Park and Recreation Commission, and she did have a concern about the donation to the Irondale Adaptive Sports program. She reported the Commission was questioning the actual purpose of the money coming from Bethlehem Baptist Church, and wondered if it was to replace missing tax money, and if it was, it should specifically benefit the City and residents in the community. Councilmember Gunn stated she agreed with the list, and thought it is well spread out. She commented that the Community Emergency Assistance Program (CEAP) is excellent and explained it is a program through Anoka and Ramsey Counties that provides assistance for car repairs. Councilmember Flaherty commented that CEAP is much more than fixing cars, as it also provides outreach programs and does a lot of good for the community. Councilmember Thomas stated all the programs selected are wonderful and are desperately in need of assistance. She stated her only caution to the Park and Recreation Committee is that it is not a payment in lieu of taxes, but rather was a true voluntary effort to donate to the community. Mayor Marty stated Bethlehem Baptist Church has contributed to the City Festival in the past and asked if it is in their second-half donation. Councilmember Gunn stated it is. Councilmember Gunn stated she represented the Council at Bethlehem Baptist Church's meeting. 2. Reports of Finance Director Finance Director Beer reported the City received a check from Ramsey County for $220,000 from the work on County Road H2 from 1996. He stated the City was notified two weeks ago that the funds were available and the City just had to submit a request. He stated this was an unexpected item. Mayor Marty asked if the City would be reimbursed for the trail on County Road H. Finance Director Beer stated he did not know but would inquire. 3. Reports of Community Development Director Director Ericson reported the Home and Garden Show last weekend was successful. He stated it was a wonderful facility for the event, and a very good show if residents want to attend next year. Mounds View City Council February 27, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 22 He stated a number of Mounds View residents stopped by with questions on development, and expansion. Director Ericson commented it was a great show and collaborative effort between Mounds View, New Brighton, Fridley and Blaine. He added it is a good opportunity for residents to come out and see what they can do. C. Reports of City Attorney None. 12. Nezt Council Work Session: Monday, March 6, 2006 at 7:00 p.m. (March Work Session) Monday, March 13, 2006 at 7:00 p.m. Nezt Council Meeting: • 13. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 9:11 p.m. Transcribed by: Annette Anderson Timesaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.