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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPL PACKET 02202001 Meeting Sheet IIIIII VIII VIII VIII VIII VIII IIII IIII 102879 Box: 27 Folder: PL PACKETS 2000-2004 Document: PL PACKET 02202001 AGENDA PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING OF FEBRUARY 20, 2001 CITY OF ST. ANTHONY, MINNESOTA 7 p.m. 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. ROLL CALL 4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA 5. PUBLIC INPUT The public may speak at this time on any planning and zoning related matters of a general nature. However, there will not be any discussion or action by the Commission at this time. 6. MEETING MINUTES 6.1 Review and Approve Planning Commission Minutes of January 16, 2001 7. COMMUNICATION FROM CITY COUNCIL 7.1 Designate a Planning Commissioner to the City Council meeting of March 13, 2001 8. RECONSIDERATION OF WALGREENS SIGN VARIANCE REQUEST 9. PUBLIC HEARINGS ' 9.1 Fitness Crossroad, 2912 Pentagon Drive: Request for Conditional Use Permit for Health Club and Tanning Salon 10. REPORTS AND INFORMATION 10.1 Northwest Quadrant Master Plan Update 11. COMMISSION INPUT 11.1 Commissioner's Comments 12. ADJOURNMENT — -. r I CITY OF ST. ANTHONY 2 PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES 3 JANUARY 16, 2001 4 7:00 p.m. . 5 1. CALL TO ORDER. 6 The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m.by Vice Chair Melsha. He requested that Agenda Items 7 3 and 4 be considered prior to Item 2, Appoint Chair/Vice Chair. 8 3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE. 9 Vice Chair Melsha invited the Commission and the audience to join in the Pledge of Allegiance. to 4. ROLL CALL. 11 Present: Vice Chair Melsha; Commissioners Hanson, Hatch (arrived at 7:01 12 p.m.), Steeves, Stille, Thomas, and Tillmann (arrived at 7:01 p.m.). 13 Commissioners absent: None. 14 Also present: Assistant City Manager Susan Henry 15 2.. APPOINT CHAIR/VICE CHAIR. 16 Stille made and'Thomas seconded the nomination of Christopher Melsha to the position of Chair. 17 Tillmann made and Melsha seconded the nomination of Randy Stille to the position of Chair. 18 Motion by Hanson, second by Thomas, to close nominations for the Year 2001 Planning 19 Commission Chair. 20 Motion carried unanimously. 21 Vice Chair Melsha requested a voice vote to determine the election. 22 23 1 vote for Stille (Tillmann); 5 votes for Melsha (Hanson, Steeves,Thomas, Hatch, and 24 S.tille; 1 abstain (Melsha). 25 Melsha stated his acceptance of the position.of Chair and appreciation to the Planning 26 Commissioners for this nomination. 27 Thomas made and Chair Melsha seconded the nomination of Randy Stille as Vice Chair. 28 Motion by Tillmann, second by Chair Melsha, to close nominations and elect Randy Stille as the 29 Year 2001 Planning Commission Vice Chair. 30 Motion carried unanimously. r t f Planning Commission Meeting Minutes January 16, 2001 Page 2 1 5. PUBLIC INPUT. 2 Chair Melsha asked if anyone in the audience was interested in addressing the Planning Com- 3 mission on issues that were not on the.regular meeting agenda. Hearing no comments, Chair 4. . Melsha moved forward with the agenda. 5 6. APPROVAL OF AGENDA. 6 Chair Melsha advised that Agenda Item 9, reconsideration of Walgreens sign variance request, 7 has been tabled to February 20, 2001 at the request of the applicant. 8 Motion by Thomas, second by Hatch, to approve the meeting agenda with the aforementioned 9 revision. 10 Motion carried unanimously. 11 7. MEETING MINUTES 12 7.1 Review and Approve Planning Commission Minutes of December 19, 2000 13 The Commissioners requested the following corrections: 14 Page 8, Line 1: "Stille stated his concern . . ." 15 Page 8, Line 25: "Hanson pointed out the anticipated Walgreens opening in October of 2002..." 16 Page 9, Line 35: "opposed to"the proposed size of the sign, he would prefer to define the hardship 17 issue..." 18 Page 13, Lines 14, 16 and 17: replace term-"Apache Mall" with"St. Anthony Shopping Center" 19 Motion by Hanson, second by Thomas, to approve the December 19, 2000 Planning Commission 20 Meeting Minutes as corrected above. 21 Motion carried unanimously. 22 8. COMMUNICATION FROM CITY COUNCIL. 23 8.1 Designate a Planning Commissioner to the City Council meeting of January 23, 2001 24 Commissioner Hanson agreed to be the Planning Commission representative to the January 23,2001 25 . City Council Meeting. 26 9. RECONSIDERATION OF WALLGREENS SIGN VARIANCE REQUEST PER COUNCIL 27 ACTION ON JANUARY 9,2001. 28 This item was tabled to the February 20, 2001 meeting at the applicant's request. 29 10. REPORTS AND INFORMATION: NEW BUSINESS 30 10.1 Proposed Code Enforcement Policy 31 It was noted that the Planning Commissioners are being asked to review the proposed City Code 32 Enforcement Policy and provide feedback to Fire Chief Joel Hewitt. 33 Fire Chief Joel Hewitt introduced Captain Don Drusch and reviewed his background in Code 34 enforcement issues. He noted the copy of his memorandum which was included in the Planning Commission Meeting Minutes January 16, 2001 Page 3 l Commission's meeting packet. He explained this was a first draft after receiving a directive from 2 City Manager Morrison to address the City's Code enforcement policy. 3 . Fire Chief Hewitt explained that the Fire Department has been in charge of Code enforcement for 4 several years and would like to involve all staff and commissions to assist them in this enforcement 5 activity. He stated that while they have made progress, he believes there is still room for 6 improvement and has talked with code enforcement officers of other communities to learn what they 7 are doing. 8 Fire Chief Hewitt commented on the importance of consistency in Code enforcement to avoid 9 confusion and treat all equally. He stated they found the Fire Department also needs training in 10 personal conflict resolution skills since they sometimes find themselves in the middle of 11 neighborhood conflicts. He stated they also need training about which Code and Code section would 12 apply so it can be identified which jurisdiction applies. Fire Chief Hewitt stated their intent to find 13 a win-win situation for all involved. 14 Fire Chief Hewitt stated they have developed a complaint form which is used by City staff when a 15 complaint call is received. He reiterated their desire to apply the Code consistently within a 16 reasonable time line. He reviewed how Fire Department officers are scheduled and their attempt to -17 assure timely complaint response. 18 Fire Chief Hewitt stated they also need to find a method to receive feedback from City staff and the 19 City Council. He read their overall goal which states: "To improve the visual impression of our 20 community, the City staff of St. Anthony Village are committed to the mission of enforcing the 21 Housing Code, to include residential and commercial properties by enforcing the land use and 22 housing provisions City Code, specifically the nuisance section; responding to the concerns and 23 complaints of our residents and City Council." 24 25 Fire Chief Hewitt stated he believes Code enforcement will result in improved neighborhood and 26 commercial appearances, growing pride of resident and business owners, maintaining property 27 values,instill confidence that violations will not be allowed to continue,and encourage reinvestment 28 in neighborhoods and commercial areas. 29 Fire Chief Hewitt stated they now have a digital camera to document photographs and present a 30 visual record of the condition of the site. He reviewed their efforts to determine the objective, an 31 enforcement procedure, office follow-up, and re-inspection. In summation, Fire Chief Hewitt 32 thanked the Planning Commission for their consideration of the issues raised and offered the 33 following recommendations: 34 To authorize discussion and facilitate discussion resulted from this correspondence with City 35 Council, Planning Commission and City Staff. 36 To provide conflict resolution,dealing with difficult people,Code jurisdiction identification 37 training to Fire Personnel. 38 To adopt the Overall Goal, and to review it annually for direction and approval by the City 39 Council Planning Commission Meeting Minutes January 16, 2001 Page 4 1 To adopt the Code Enforcement Resolution and Inspections Procedures 2 To authorize a feasibility study for the hiring of a Code Specialist/Fire Marshal,this position .3 would resolve several issues enhance enforcement of the Housing and Fire Codes,provide 4 Fire Code interpretation, and enhance our fire service delivery. 5 Chair Melsha thanked Fire Chief Hewitt for providing this information in written form. 6 Stille how they find violations. Captain Gruth stated they try to, as time permits, notice violations 7 while in the field and address them at the time they are noticed. He stated they also respond to 8 complaints, as needed. 9 Thomas noted that grass over six inches tall is a violation. He asked if ornamental types of grasses, 10 which are generally taller, are further identified. Fire Chief Hewitt stated they are aware of one 11 prairie grass lawn in St. Anthony which they view differently than the typical residential lawn. He 12 stated he thinks non-traditional types of lawns may become more common. 13 Captain Gruth stated they have been fairly lenient but he believes the Code currently does not allow 14 any type of lawns taller than six inches. He noted the Code was developed years ago and,perhaps, 15 should be reevaluated. He suggested that the Code also be reviewed to assure it complies with State 16 Statutes. 17 Fire Chief Hewitt stated they would like to evaluate these goals and policy issues on an annual basis 18 to assure that issues such as prairie restoration lawns are properly addressed and the Code conforms 19 to the times. 20 Chair Melsha agreed with the need to assure the Code is up-to-date and suggested sections that need 21 to be reviewed be referred to staff. 22 Hanson stated the Planning Commission was frustrated with Code enforcement about a year ago so 23 former Fire Chief Johnson came and addressed the issue. He stated he hopes the City supports them 24 by providing the requested training. Hanson suggested the Code Enforcement Policy be broadcast 25 on Cable television, posted on the City's .web page, and included in .a City newsletter. He 26 encouraged'the Fire-Department to bring any Code sections before the Planning Commission as they 27 become aware there is a need for revision. 28 Thomas stated several weeks ago he and Henry met with representatives from the Center for Energy 29 and Environment to look at putting together a grant for home rehabilitation. Data is now being 30 collected so a grant can be filed in the fall and, hopefully, grant funds will be available by the end 31 of the year to improve housing stock. 32 Tillmann stated it is important to have written procedures to assure enforcement is consistent. She 33 suggested a general comment be included to identify how violations are found by the Fire 34 Department. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes January 16, 2001 Page 5 1 Tillmann asked how the Fire Department determines a Code violation and if training is needed in 2 that area as well. Captain Gruth explained that they review the Code when a particular complaint is I received but sometimes they find inconsistency in Code language. 4 Tillmann asked if there will be an opportunity for a more informal compliance and enforcement 5 procedure. Fire Chief Hewitt stated the Fire Department staff includes great employees who are on 6 the cutting edge of providing customer services to the community. He stated many residents will 7 not even know it is a Code violation since it will just be mentioned to them and they will be asked 8 to take care of it. Fire Chief Hewitt reviewed their efforts to remain flexible and work with the 9 residents to gain cooperative compliance. 10 Tillmann asked who is responsible for enforcement of Conditional Use Permits. Fire Chief Hewitt I 1 stated the Fire Department is not responsible for that compliance issue. 12 Chair Melsha asked how Conditional Use Permit documents are stored. Henry stated the larger 13 project files contain all paperwork and meeting minutes. However, if the project is smaller in size, 14 it may take longer to locate the appropriate meeting minutes. 15 Chair Melsha suggested the Conditional Use Permits be compiled in a summary fashion so the City 16 knows which properties are subject to a.Conditional Use Permit. The Commissioners agreed that .17 this-would be a good goal for 2001. 18 Stille relayed that this same concern was raised at the last City Council meeting and staff was 19 directed locate the files and, in the future, the permits will be recorded with the property. 20 Hatch asked about enforcement of noise complaints. Fire Chief Hewitt stated that violation would 21 be under the jurisdiction of the Police Department but the Fire Department would work closely with 22 them. 23 Hatch asked if there are additional issues that the Planning Commission should include in its 2001 24 goals. Fire Chief Hewitt stated they have struggled with the Code Enforcement book physically and 25 found that it is difficult to locate the pertinent sections of the_Code and assure that it complies with 26 State Statutes. 27 Chair Melsha suggested an additional goal of Code enforcement is promoting public safety. He 28 stated his support for the requested training in conflict resolution which 'is vital in gaining 29 enforcement. 30 Fire Chief Hewitt thanked the Planning Commission for its input and stated he will include the 31 suggestions in his presentation before the City Council. 32 10.2 2001 Planning Commission Goals 33 Melsha noted the request for the Planning Commission to form goals for the year 2001. 34 Following discussion, the following Year 2001 goals were established: Planning Commission Meeting Minutes January 16, 2001 Page 6 i • Continued redevelopment of St.Anthony Shopping Center(fire station,Stonehouse, 2 Kenzie Terrace properties) 3 Identifying and submitting grant applications (first ring suburb grants) 4 Development and facilitation of residential property grant/loan programs 5 Update Ordinance related to communication towers and antenna 6 Update the Sign Ordinance 7 Redevelopment of the Northwest Quadrant 8 Compile Summary of Conditional Use Permits 9 Develop a plan of action to bury overhead power lines and tie it into the City' Capital 10 Improvement Plan 11 Address Codes to assure they are appropriate 12 Hatch stated he had talked with former Chair Bergstrom and it was mentioned there may be a need 13 for a part-time City Planner who could address some of the goals mentioned. He suggested this 14 position could be established with a term,such as two years,and he believes there would be qualified 15 candidates who would be interested. 16 Stille stated the City also has to address how to spend funds to implement liveable communities 17 which would relate to the Salvation Army property and updating the housing stock. 18 Thomas stated Hatch makes an excellent suggestion and he also believes.there is a need for part- 19 time Planner to identify these needs. He noted the Northwest Quadrant Study identified some 20 interesting initial data which could be addressed by a City Planner. 21 Thomas and Hanson volunteered to meet as a Code Review Subcommittee. 22 10.3 Application Status to Minnesota Housing Finance Agency 23 Thomas advised that he and Henry met with staff from the Center for Energy and Environment 24 (CEE) regarding a potential single family application to the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency 25 (MHFA) for the establishment of some rehabilitation funds/loans for St. Anthony residents. After 26 discussion,the consensus was to pull back on this application round due in February so as to collect 27 more housing and demographic information,as well as to find out more about community needs,like 28 from a community survey. Henry explained that the City will work.with the CEE on a spring 29 mailing to residents describing current MHFA loan products available for housing fix-up projects. 30 Once the housing needs of St. Anthony residents is better determined,an application will be pulled 31 together for the fall round. 32 11. REPORTS AND INFORMATION: OLD BUSINESS. 33 11.1. Antenna/Tower Subcommittee. 34 Chair Melsha stated they are currently in the informational gathering stage. Henry reviewed the 35 information she has compiled which has been provided to the Subcommittee members. 36 11.2 City Monument Sign Subcommittee. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes January 16, 2001 Page 7 1 Henry noted that the City Council is asking for Planning Commission direction on an electronic City 2 monument sign for the front of the City Hall/Community Center. She stated that she wants to keep 3 this issue in front of the Planning Commission. 4 Stille stated he and Henry comprise this Subcommittee and asked if there are any suggestions. 5 Chair Melsha stated he thinks, perhaps, the Ordinance should be addressed before making a 6 recommendation on the City monument sign. Henry noted the City is interested in erecting a sign 7 in the spring but that should allow enough time. 8 Tillmann volunteered to join Stille and Henry on the City Monument Sign Subcommittee. Chair 9 Melsha requested an update at the next meeting. 10 11.3 Electronic Signs 11 Hatch noted the Planning Commission, at the last meeting, denied a request for an electronic sign. 12 He suggested that rather than considering it to be a variance or conditional use, the ordinance be 13 amended to allow government to have electronic signs based on rationale such as safety and 14 providing information to the community. 15 Chair Melsha concurred and noted the Commission will also have to address whether the current 16 prohibition is still appropriate. 17 12. OTHER ITEMS. 18 12.1 Northwest Quadrant Redevelopment StudyUpdate. 19 Henry announced the Northwest Quadrant Master Planning Project,Planning Steering Committee, 20 Meeting 2 will be field on January 18, 2001, at 7:00 p.m. at the St. Anthony City Hall. 21 12.2 New Chair: City Goal-Setting Session, January 19, 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. 22 Melsha announced the City Goal Setting Session which is scheduled for January 19,2001,from 9:00 23 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and stated he will attend to present the Planning Commission's input. He stated 24 he will provide a report to the Planning Commission at the February 20, 2001 meeting. 25 13.. COMMISSION INPUT. 26 13.1 Commissioner's Comments. 27 Steeves introduced himself and stated he is excited to serve on the Planning Commission. He 28 reviewed his professional experience and stated he looks forward to becoming involved in those 29 types of activities in St. Anthony. 30 Tillmann welcomed Steeves to the Planning Commission. All of the Commissioners added their 31 welcome. 32 Hanson and Thomas congratulated Melsha and Stille on their appointments to Chair and Vice Chair. 33 Chair Melsha thanked the Commissioners for their support,noting the Planning Commission has a 34 "full plate" ahead of them in 2001. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes January 16, 2001 Page 8 1 Hatch stated he always looks forward to attending the Planning Commission meetings and extended 2 his congratulations to the Chair and Vice Chair. 3 StiIle. reviewed his presentation before the City.Council and comments made by Councilmember 4 Horst,advising how the Sign Ordinance came to be. He relayed that the City Council is not 5 enthusiastic about considering the sign variance; however, there may be a hardship since the 6 elevation of the Walgreens building is quite low. 7 Chair Melsha asked staff to relay to Mr. Kalscheur of TOLD Development to be more prepared to 8 specifically identify hardship issues. 9 Henry suggested the Commissioners visit other Walgreens sites to see what their signage looks like. 10 Hanson noted Mr.Kalscheur had withdrawn his request for the electronic readerboard sign and asked 11 if he had indicated such before the City Council. Stille stated Mr. Kalscheur did make that 12 indication. 13 Henry advised that Mr. Kalscheur had asked if a sign with manual changeable copy is allowed, 14 which it is. 15 Hanson asked.if the Planning Commission will have a joint meeting with the City Council. Chair 16 Melsha stated he will make that request at the upcoming goal setting session. 17 14. ADJOURNMENT. 18 Motion by Hanson, second by Chair Melsha,to adjourn the meeting at 8:19 p.m. 19 Motion carried unanimously. 20 Respectfully submitted, 21 Carla Wirth 22 TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc. MEMO DATE: 2/14/01 MEETING DATE: 2/20/01 TO: Planning Commissioners FROM: Susan Henry, Assistant.City Manager RE: Walgreens Sign Variance Request Requested Action: On January 9, 2001, the City Council looked at the resolutions passed onto them by the Planning Commission from public hearings held on the Walgreens development on December 19, 2000. All of the resolutions passed, with the exception of the sign variance request. Background: Reconsideration of the Walgreens sign variance request was on the Planning Commission's January 16, 2001 agenda; however, the applicant requested to table the item until the next meeting due to a family emergency.This tabled request brings the reconsideration to the February 20, 2001, Planning Commission meeting. Enclosed please find the letter dated February 13, 2001, from TOLD Development that why their site situation is unique, and why a,variance is needed for extra signage than what.is allowed by city code. At the January 9, 2001, City Council meeting, TOLD Development announced that it would take the electronic component out of the sign variance request. At this point, the petitioner is requesting a sign variance to allow for a ground (or monument sign) consisting of 50 square feet of copy on each side, for a total surface copy area of 100 square feet. City code states the allowable sign copy surface area is a maximum of 68 square feet. The request exceeds the existing code by 32 square feet, 16 square feet per side. At the December 19, 2000, Planning Commission public hearing, there was a 3-3 (tie) vote on the motion to approve the sign surface copy area, taking out the electronic sign. The City Council would like the Planning Commission to reconsider the request to determine if hardship can be defined for granting the sign variance for the copy surface area. Findings could be, by not limited to, the following: (1) the property elevations makes it difficult to view the signage; (2)the easements make sign placement difficult; and (3) the property is difficult to develop. Staff Recommendation: This sign variance request is in front of the Planning Commission again because the City Council would like a clearer answer on the issue. The Planning Commission will need to define the hardships for the applicant, if a variance is granted. Attachment: • February 13, 2001, Letter from TOLD Development Company • Monument Sign Plans @TOLD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY February 13, 2001 Ms. Sue Henry Assistant City Manager Saint Anthony Village 3301 Silver Lake Road St. Anthony, MN 55418-1699 Re: Proposed Walgreens Development Northwest Corner of 37'Avenue& Silver Lake Road Petition for Sign Variance Dear Ms. Henry: I would like to thank you, the City Council, and the Planning Commission for agreeing reconsider our request for an additional 16 square feet per side of monument sign area on our pending Walgreens development. This letter, in combination with my previous letter dated November 3 0, 2000 describes why we feel our situation is unique, and a variance is applicable. As mentioned in my previous letter and presentation, our project is not typical of a single user retail building. It is neither as large as more common single user retail buildings such as Target, Cub Foods, Home Depot and that are allowed larger sign areas, nor is it as small as fast food restaurants, banks and other single purpose users where a smaller sign area is in scale with their development. Further, because of the fact that our development has only one tenant, the code does not allow for the 150 square feet of monument sign that a typical 14,500 square foot strip center would be allowed. As mentioned before, we have tried to design a complete signage plan that encompasses a small percentage of the building area, and is in scale with the.overall development. I believe some additional site characteristics that were revealed in conversation with the adjacent neighbors after our last Planning Commission,meeting, and further uncovered as we looked into the issue of the bus shelter after our most recent Council meeting, have a lot of merit and are worthy of other consideration. 1. Because of the existing trees on the railroad land north of our site, the store is not visible to southbound traffic until the cars are past the entrance from Silver Lake Road. This is true in part because the watermain that bisects our site requires us to situate the building further west than we otherwise would. MINNEAPOLIS•MILWAUKEE 6385 Old Shady Oak Road,Sulte 120• Eden Prairie,MN 55344• (952)278.9000 Fax(952)278.7574 I-A rt/T -T P T T- N 1 9 7 T A M T.n T T n A 9 /.T.R R T 2. Because of the existing homes to the south of the site, the store is not visible to northbound traffic until the intersection of Silver Lake Road and 370'Avenue. 3. The existing topography of the site dictates that the store will be at an elevation that is 6-8 feet lower than Sivler Lake Road. This further reduces the visibility of the store. 4. The Metro Transit Authority would like to rebuild the bus stop shelter along Silver Lake Road that was removed when the reconstruction of the road was commenced. The former location of the shelter encroaches on the site and obstructs visibility of the monument sign. A slightly larger sign would serve to alleviate some of the visibility constraints brought about by the unique characteristics of the site. It would not be detrimental to the public welfare nor would it reduce property values at other properties in the neighborhood. Because of the importance of project identity, and the existence of several unique site characteristics, we are requesting that the Planning Commission and City Council use their discretion and approve our petition for signage variance. I thank you for your time and consideration on this matter. Sincerely, Mike Kalscheur Assistant Director-Real Estate cTTn_ aJ 7 7Ta QT.7T TA n7 ST•AA4 101„011 W "V N O O Co oil N O lT NL4LGREEN CABINET S16y N CD LOM OU PHARNACY In O O o N READER 80APD SIGN f-1 FACE. r � d ��_____: STONE GAP o ro M z H � o Q BRICK VENEER TO m MATCH MII:DIN6 I � Q! o O lP rl ro C3 s o r9- f®I�ll�Mply!T sIaN ' M ARCHM modul - mum- .� Dm UGO WA cism c °°°°°' g00LNEW-ROAD .•— °mnWA�a.. '"° �, anivfE-Tmu PHARMACY ST.ANTHONY, MN. OV .... :ON6 SEMAGK-WLVM FRONT S5' ' Baworwoaao. ra SIDE STREET SS SIDE INTERIOR 10' REAR 20' - - PARKINS 1 STA V3W S.P. 44 STALLS HM ��—STEEP 6RADE pp 91 STALLS Y 9k19'STALLS b a4- Z R • ' Bowoa w � P ajpct ag G 6LVW AORM WIW �nw�vs►naM lb of aNMner,n� Pml.,A Mai 1 1 _ B OO-IO2 • i � � o.a..sr� O D.rtar i wa 1 cc CIrcYW By t 1( J M od Dol.I ti `ierciww WALGREENS p....b.. . PHARMACY 14,490 80 Fr am"FLAX a�K 1111 ~J ..no. _ 1 S _ 1 lad i ? I vlag"W.m mr.�l L7 b 1l A Q PSSbY � I'I ----'-----'- awo wnw�-may bRt P1JH ---------------. -----.d .---------- AVE.NORTH 37th ------------ ----------- - sn.d rumen �] A @1 n fi MEMO DATE: 2/14/01 MEETING DATE: 2/20/01 TO: Planning Commissioners FROM: Susan Henry,Assistant City Manager RE: Fitness Crossroad - Request for Conditional Use Permit Requested Action: Applicant Barry Tedlund is requesting a conditional use permit for a health club and tanning salon for a vacated space in the St. Anthony Shopping Center, located at 2912 Pentagon Drive. The business name for the new health club is Fitness Crossroad. Background: February 20, 2001 is the public hearing for the conditional use permit for Barry Tedlund to operate a fitness center with tanning services in St. Anthony. Health clubs, or fitness centers, and body tanning salons are considered permitted conditional uses by the city code. Mr. Tedlund is planning to renovate a former hardware store in the St. Anthony Shopping Center. The City Council has waived the Concept Review stage, due to fact that Mr. Tedlund would like to get going with the project for a spring opening. During a conditional use permit review, Commissioners may want to consider such an.issue as hours of operation. Mr. Tedlund said he plans to be open 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and possibly 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Saturdays. Mr. Tedlund is not sure about the Saturday and Sunday hours. Commissioners may want to the hours more pinned down from Mr. Tedlund. Another issue to consider is parking and the number-of spaces available in relation to the numbers/traffic expected at the fitness business. City code states the total are of a parking lot, including all parking spaces, drive aisles, islands and landscaping must be no less than the required number of parking spaces multiplied by 300 square feet. In terms of building signage for the fitness business, Mr. Tedlund must comply with the St. Anthony Shopping Center lease agreement, as there is specified sign criteria called out. Staff has a copy of the sign criteria for the St. Anthony Shopping Center. Mr. Tedlund intends to provide other services at Fitness Crossroad; however, they are all considered permitted uses in the commercial district. These include services such as childcare, sandwichruice bar, dry cleaning drop-off and pick-up, personal training, and therapeutic massage. While some uses may be permitted by the City, Mr. Tedlund must receive the necessary approvals for the type of use from the appropriate government agency (i.e. child care and restaurant approvals are through Hennepin County). In addition, the City Manager will need to verify that a licensed professional will be performing the therapeutic massage at the site. The rehabilitation work is overseen by St. Anthony Building Official Greg Schmit. Mr. Tedlund will receive the building permit from Mr. Schmit when the plan meets 1998 Minnesota State Building Code. Mr. Schmit has been working with Mr. Tedlund and his architect on the plan review. The letter attached dated January 18, 2001, from Greg Schmit, reflects some communication as it relates to the plan. 1 Page 2--Fitness Crossroad Public Hearing While the building permit and the conditional use permit are not specifically tied together, the City Council has asked Mr. Schmit to hold off on the building permit until the conditional use permit is approved. After.the Planning Commission public hearing for the.conditional use permit, the.request will go before the City Council in resolution format their March 13 meeting. Mr. Tedlund has provided city staff with background regarding his business concept and marketing background as well as the building/layout plans. These documents can be found attached. Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends approval of the request, provided the applicant follows the stipulations outlined by the City during the public hearing process as well as follows the guidelines outlined by other regulatory agencies, depending on the use, like the County. Date: 1/22/2001 Fee: $130.00 CITY OF ST. ANTHONY APPLICATION FOR CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT Applicant:, Barry Tedlund Phone: 612-788-8617 Address: 2338 Taft Street N.E., Minneapolis, MN 55418 . Status of applicant (owner, buyer, renter, agent, etc.): renter Street address and/or legal description of property in question: 2912 Pentagon Drive, St. Anthony, MN 55418 St. Anthony Village Shopping g` enter Zoning district in which property is located: C General Commercial District Conditional use proposed% Fitness Center(Health Club) & Tanning_(Body Tanning Salon) Minnesota Statutes and City Ordinances require that the following conditions be satisfied before a conditional use may be authorized. Please respond to these conditions, using additional sheets, if necessary. 1) The proposed conditional use is one of the conditional uses specifically listed for the zoning district in which it is to be located. Section 1635 C General Commercial District i635.03 Permitted Conditional Uses (n) Health Clubs. 2) The proposed conditional use will not be detrimental to the health, safety, or general welfare of erp sons residing or working in the vicinity or injurious to property values or improvements in the vicinity. This project will prove to be a great benefit to the community as a convenience for residents and working neighbors as well as a complement with area businesses that should prove fruitful. It is my belief that a Fitness Center such as this will be a wonderful"fit" in The St. Anthony Village Shopping Center and should help to continue the improving trend of that Center and the neighborhood. 3) The proposed conditional use is necessary or desirable at the above location to provide a service or a facility which is in the interest of public convenience and will contribute to the general welfare of the neighborhood or community. Convenience is a key factor I would like to provide for people. By combining the appropriate amenities within this business as well as the complementary businesses that surround it, I believe this Fitness Center has the potential to be an anchor to St. Anthony Vil a Shopping Center and help that Center thrive once again. The following amenities will be provided: 80+pieces of Equipment Personal Training Child Care Therapeutic Massage Sandwich/Juice Bar Locker Rooms(steam, sauna, sunbed) Dry.Cleaning drop-off&pick-up Monthly Accounts Signature of applicant: February 12, 2001 Dear Planning Commissioner: Please allow, me to impress upon you how serious I am in.presenting.a "wonderful service" for the people of St. Anthony. `I have wanted a Fitness Center in the neighborhood since the Fitness Center at Apache closed back in the 80's. There is not a fitness center of good substance within reasonable distance. By way of a marketing study, I found that there are a good number of people in the area who have the same feeling as I do. They want convenience. These people overwhelmingly believe St. Anthony Village Shopping Center would be a convenient location and would like to see it open there. I want to provide a center that will cater to the variety in population that we have in this area. I see the needs of seniors (my parents included) to engage themselves in strength conditioning to maintain viability into their elderly years and I have the desire to maintain an environment that will welcome people of all ages and "walks of life". I do not want this club to be a "Muscle-head Gym" and I will be working actively to maintain the appropriate environment. In determining a name for the center, I have struggled with how to present the image I want to convey while staying clear of a "Gym" or "Bally's" theme.. I feel very good about what we have created: f fTNESS OZONZUAD The emphasis will be on providing the right package of amenities, conveniently. The focus will be to help people improve themselves physically so they may enjoy life more fully. I will be providing 80+ pieces of equipment, a majority of which will be geared to be user-friendly for women and seniors. Group fitness will be provided to the variety that the membership demands and a child care area children will look forward to going to. Locker rooms will be on the plush side of comfortable with day- use lockers, a towel service, and a steam-room, sauna, and sun-bed in each. Personal training will be provided for proper guidance and therapeutic massage will be available. A sandwich/juice bar will be situated to the front for those who wish to have nutritional pre-packaged food. I know I have the means and the commitment to provide a healthy, very positive-focused business in a strategically.convenient location for the people of St. Anthony. I have been born and raised in the St. Anthony community and have been working in a family owned metal stamping business since I was 16 years old. With a college education behind me, an experience of a wide number of jobs within one organization, and an on-the- job education from my father, I have learned what it takes to run a business, and have built a network of counselors to support me in my endeavors. I firmly believe this business will provide a great service to the people of St. Anthony and will be an "anchor" to continued growth for the tenants of St. Anthony Village Shopping Center. Fitness Crossroad will fit well to round out a great synergy that is building for this Shopping Center. I am providing a package of materials for you to review prior to our meeting on February 20'h. Included in the package are the following: .1. Business Plan short form 2. Personnel Plan 3. Demographic Report of the area surrounding St. Anthony Village Shopping Center. 4. Survey questions from a survey performed in December 2000. S. A list of responses to the final open-end question in the survey. Thank you for reviewing these materials. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. Whatever hours you need to call, you will not wake myself or my family. Thank you for your consideration, I look forward to our meeting on February 20t" and to serving the community of St. Anthony. Sincerely, Barry Tedlund - 2338 Taft Street N.E. Business Phone: 612-940-6594 Minneapolis,MN 55418 Fax:612-706-1863 Home Phone: 612-788-8617 E-Mail: tedlundbarry@WNest.net FUNE55 e &44*-C� V4U4 Q"tlq� t+ fd4"' 2001 Barry Tedlund Owner /Manager 2338 Taft Street N.E. Minneapolis, MN 55418 Home Phone: 612-788-8617 Business Phone: 612-940-6594 f RNESS CROSSROAD 1.2 Mission f Cu*neAd will provide a quality service to residents and workers of the area in a strategically convenient location and format with an atmosphere of a community center. Enhancing Your Quality of Life 1.3 Keys to Success. 1. Presentation of complementary amenities within the center and also complementary businesses withing the Shopping Center. 2. The correct package of convenience for early morning, lunchtime, and early evening use. 3. Professional, service-minded employ satisfying needs beyond expectations. 4. A comfortable environment for people of all ages and walks of life. 5. An appropriate quantity of quality equipment. 2.2 Start-up Summary Total start-up expenses will build to $60,000. These expenses have been and will be paid by way of cash outlay by the owner. This includes all of the preparation work of a marketing survey, consultants fees, design work, legal preparation, advertising, and any payroll before opening. Build-out costs of$400,000 are anticipated and will be paid for by way of a secured loan through US Bank. These expenses involve completely retrofitting the facility in fiunishing the locker rooms, carpeting the floors, the group fitness floor, steam-room, sauna, sun-bed, office, computers, child care area, and sandwich/juice bar area. Equipment needs will require another$250,000 and will be acquired by way of secured loan or possibly a lease. The equipment has not yet been finalized. The names of the potential pieces include Cybex,Precor, Life Fitness, Stairmaster, and Keiser. These are the front runners. I may be looking into other manufacturers as I work with employees and listen to the "wants" of the membership. I believe it is important to provide a variety for the members because one line does not have all the answers. Page 1 t FUESS CROSSROAD 2.3 Company Locations and Facilities The site of Fitness Crossroad will be 12,212 square feet of the St. Anthony Village Shopping Center. This shopping center is located at the convergence of three heavily trafficked thoroughfares. It is a cornerstone to the St. Anthony community and adjacent to homes and businesses in neighboring Northeast Minneapolis. 3.0 Services Fitness Crossroad will provide a convenient stop or destination for those committed to fitness or those wanting to make a commitment to fitness. Fitness Crossroad will also furnish additional amenities to provide for ever increasing family and daily demanding schedules. A wide variety of fitness equipment, coupled with proper education from qualified personnel to allow members to progress at their desired pace toward their individual goals. Personalized and group training will be available as well as the complementary amenities of showers, sauna, steam-room, sun-bed and massage therapy supporting a well-rounded conditioning experience. Additionally, the services of child care, dry-cleaning drop-off and pick-up, and a sandwich/juice bar will be available to provide convenience for members in addition to the complementary services provided by the existing businesses of the Shopping Center. A Wide-Ranging One-Stop Shop 3.1 Service Description Fitness Crossroad will provide a well-maintained atmosphere of basics and amenities to allow people to focus on improving their strength, health and well-being. The following is a list of the beginning_pieces to the puzzle: 1. Fitness equipment: free-weights, select-drive machines, cardiovascular equipment. National trends show cardio vascular equipment increasingly becoming a key component of people's workouts. Coupled with the increase in filled schedules that people are maintaining, a convenient location is increasingly becoming a stronger need for people if they are to involve themselves at a fitness center. 2. Educational Programs: Yoga, nutrition, strength training and more. 3. Group Instruction: Aerobics, Spinning, Yoga,Kickboxing and more. 4. Personal Training available with Certified Personal Trainers or consultation from a Physiologist on-staff. 5. Locker Rooms: daily use lockers, showers and a towel service. Separate sun-bed, sauna, and steam-room in each locker room. 6. Massage Therapy. 7. Child Care:experienced care overseeing the use of educational materials, computers and toys by the children and providing organized activities. 8. Dry Cleaning: convenient drop-off and pick-up. 9. Sandwich /Juice Bar: pre-packaged sandwiches, snack-bars, mixed power drinks Page 2 r: WC55 CIZO551ZOAD and juices. 10. Supplements 11. Environment conducive to Enhancing ones Quality of Life. 3.6 Future Services The desire is to maintain an equipment base to supply to the needs of members even at peak times so people are not left waiting. This will involve: 1. adding more equipment as the membership base grows. 2. rotating equipment that may prove to be underutilized. 3. expanding areas of the gym if demand proves a need (exercise area, child care,juice bar. .). This may potentially involve: 1. expanding into an adjoining building. 2. setting a cap on the membership??? 4.0 Market Analysis Summary The area surrounding this facility is increasingly younger singles, couples, and couples with children. There is a stronghold of seniors in the area that have been very happy with the community and desire to stay even when moving out of their single family homes. Many of these seniors have re-located to a new home in the community that is more suited size-wise or maintenance-wise such as condos, townhomes, senior living communities and apartments. A survey was performed recently confirming: 1. there is a great number of neighboring residents that would appreciate having a fitness facility in such a convenient location(they feel they must travel a great distance now). 2. people would opt for this facility even if they belong to Northwest or Lifetime...\ 3. the 50+crowd appear to have a great deal of potential. The calls it took to get 200 complete surveys of people in the age range of 18-49 uncovered 153 people that were working out at least once a week. 4. 1/4 of the potential members would like to see child care available. Page 3 FRO CIZOSSROAD 4.2.2 Market Trends The numbers of people joining gyms has been on the increase since 1989. Seniors are being encouraged to involve themselves in strength conditioning to help provide a means of maintaining themselves in their later years. 4.2.3 Market Growth Many of the existing seniors are desiring to stay in the area. If they move from their homes they are moving within the community to nearby condos, apartments, townhomes or assisted living quarters. These elderly are becoming more aware of the importance of strength conditioning as a way to maintain their vitality into retirement and realize a more fulfilling retirement. As elderly move out,their homes are becoming a much wanted commodity on the market. Many young people,young couples, and young families have been moving into the area as a majority of the houses for sale are in the range of the current average home sale price (climbing toward $145,000). The recent development of the nearby Stinson Technology Campus is bringing a potential 5,000 more nearby jobs to the area. These additional jobs bring.more good wage earning prospective home-buyers to the area with potential interests in the convenience of a nearby fitness facility.Additionally,these jobs provide another market segment.to be pursued - workers who will take advantage of a good fitness facility within one and a half miles(5 minutes) of their business. 4.3.3 Main Competitors Lifetime Fitness- For Women Only -3 Miles/ 10 Minutes The Press-3 Miles/ 10 Minutes New Brighton Family Service Center- 5 Miles/ 12 Minutes Northwest Athletic Club - 6.Miles/20 Minutes Bally's- 7 Miles/ 15 Minutes JR's Powerhouse- 7 Miles/ 15 Minutes. Page 4 HMO CROSSROAD 5.3 Competitive Edge The Fitness Crossroad will be situated in a shopping center with a strategic convenient location. Roads surrounding the Center are converging and a highway passes by to the front of the location providing easy access for 100,000 residents living within a three mile vicinity, a convenient location'for the 20,000+.commuters.traveling to and from work that.pass by'on a daily basis, good visibility from the highway to potentially attract these commuters who may reside in a different community but take advantage of convenience on the way. There is also potential to provide convenience to the many workers in the area who may find convenience by having a fitness center located near their workplace. The Fitness Crossroad will provide industry leading equipment and professional education and instruction on the use of this equipment to most effectively get results from each workout. The services are structured in a way to provide a convenient package of items that should help people group daily activities or needs either within the facility or by use of the neighboring businesses that complement this business. A drug store, restaurants, bakery, bike shop,jeweler, travel agency, Montessori, sport shop, nail shop and hair salon all should benefit from the increased daily traffic to the club as well as be a benefit for the members to have so close. Excellent education and training. Child care that children will enjoy going to making it possible for people with young children to enjoy a workout.Quality equipment and training for the elderly which is a growing market segment.Most.importantly I will be ensuring a non- intimidating environment for members from all walks of life to feel comfortable - this will be . a focus that will be monitored and maintained. 6.2 Management Team ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS: Gary Henrikson - Business Development/Entrepreneurship Cheryl Baan - Marketing/ Sales Gary Derfus - Tax Tim Wuestenhagen - Legal Al Liebe - Operations Management William Tedlund -Business Development/Entrepreneurship Page 5 frr►�Ess e�vss���� PERSONNEL PLAN Full-Time Personnel: Owner/Manager Exercise Physiologist Fitness Director/ Personal Trainer Salesperson Child Care Director These employees will partake in a benefits program. Part-Time Personnel: Personal Trainers Front Desk Child Care Sub-Contractors: Massage Therapist Group Fitness Instructors February 14, 2001 Dear Planning Commissioner: Attached, you find two drawings of FUNESS CROSSROAD. The first is of the entire building and the second is a preliminary of the fitness area. My contractor's name is Willard Weikle of Earl Weikle & Sons. They recently finished a 20,000 square foot expansion at our family business. where I learned of his reputation first-hand. The hours I am looking at needing to provide for the membership are as follows: Monday Friday 5:00 a.m..— 11:00 p.m. Saturday.. 8:00 a.m. = 8:00 p.m. ??? Sunday ???????? I will be interested to see where the membership demands the hours to go. I feel I need to provide for the wants of the membership. The Monday through Friday hours I feel should be satisfactory but I will be surveying to find out the needs for Saturday and Sunday. Sincerely, Barry Tedlund 2338 Taft Street N.E. Business Phone: 612-940-6594 Minneapolis,MN 55418 Fax:612-706-1863 Home Phone: 612-788-8617 E-Mail: tedlundbarry@�awest.net El dim®I � jj Lill Il-J O �w 8 mi w W ' t m n ° Imn la o I °Ell ® " ® W ® I x ® w M 0� K W L1 � i Jan 23 01 05:20p Brian Farley 952-546-7522 p•3 �a ...... w.wn w.ONU1N rAltLtY-REP 08te:IlMOD1 tlma 5:12:46 PM Page 2 012 Y cat rMTA O w"�r e AM tm O 4C4 vet K O 9 8 i f i � JAN-23-01 04 :07 PM CASTLE COS. INC. 651 702 9364 P. 02 t CASTLE INSPECTION SERVICE ,ee» _..CASMP-COhtPAA11Es1Nc,-2440 UNwooDCoURr-Mn- c wpgg-,W January 18, 2001- _ Mr. Carlos Baldovinos, c/o Earl Weikle& Sons 2514 24th Avenue South Mpls., MN 55406 Plan Review Comments based on the 1998 Minnesota State Building Code Project Name: Fitness Crossroad Architect: Dave Kerwen, #20249 Project Number: n/a Engineer: n/a Address: 2912 Pentagon Dr. Contractor: Earl Weikle& Sons Occupancy Classification: A-3 Construction Type: II-N The items listed in this report are not intended to be a complete listing of all possible code requirements, nor does this report relieve the contractor from the responsibility of compliance with all applicable State and local codes and ordinances. 1. I am allowing the existing concrete block wall at the north side of the space to be used as a 2.hour area separation wall. The wall at the south side of the space is of frame construction in some areas, filled in below the existing column/beanl line. This wall cannot be of combustible construction in a type II building. It also must either be a rated occupancy or area separation with protected openings, or the entire adjacent space will need to considered as a part of the fitness center. Please advise how you wish to handle this. 2. Note that i am classifying the type of construction as II-N as opposed to your submittal of 1I-1 Hour. With 2 hour area walls, this space alone will meet the area requirements of UBC Chapter 5. If you choose to include the adjacent space to the south as part of this project, either now or in the.future,you will need to provide your calculations for compliance with the applicable allowable area requirements. If you intending to provide 1 hour protection of all structural members, or use the fire sprinklers as a substitution for same, please advise. 3. Your request to defer the submittal of the HVAC plans is approved, however keep in mind the plans must be designed and signed by a Minnesota registered engineer. They must also include a structural engineer's signature if rooftop equipment is involved. 4: Also plans for plumbing installations must be submitted to the Minnesota Department of Health for their review: and approval prior.to issuance of a plumbing permit by the City of St. Anthony. 5. Please provide your calculations for the required number of plumbing fixtures based on the requirements of UBC Appendix Chapter 29. By my calculations you are a couple of fixtures short. 6. Occupant load signs must be posted near the main exits for the child care room and the main exercise area per UBC Sect 1007.2.6. Since you did not provide the occupant loads, I have calculated them as 25 and 176 respectively. 7. The rear exit door must also be equipped with compliant panic hardware, 8. All doors shall comply with MSBC Chapter 1341, handicap accessibility, with regard to clearance, opening width, hardware thresholds, etc, Purms:651-731-7881 Fnm 651-702-9364 JAN-23-01 04 :07 PM CASTLE COS. INC. 651 702 9364 P. 03 2912 Pentagon,Plan Review January 18,2001 Page 2 of 2 9. At least one of the showers in both locker rooms trust comply with the requirements of MSBC Chapter 1341.0458. 10. Provide exit signs per UBC Section 1003.2.8.2, note that the maximum distance between,signs is 100 feet. It looks like you will need one additional at the junction'of areas 126;108 and 109. 11. What is your proposed plan for emergency lighting per UBC Section 1003.2.9? Note that all areas must be covered. 12. The rest room in the child care room must also,comply with all of the requirements in M SBC Chapter 1341 for handicap accessibility, clear floor space, grab bars, fixtures, etc. 13. The counter heights in the juice bar area must comply with the requirements of MSBC Chapter 1341.0520. 14. Maintain a minimum of 44"clear aisle width to the exit door in the cardio area. End of Comments Please respond to these comments by way of addendum.and/or revised plans as necessary. Respec submitted, Grego A. Schmit, C.B.O., Building Official/City of St. Anthony 1 CITY OF ST. ANTHONY 2 CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES 3 January 23, 2001 4 I. CALL TO ORDER. 5 Mayor Cavanaugh called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m. 6 II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE. 7 Mayor Cavanaugh invited the Council and the audience to join in the Pledge of Allegiance. 8 III. ROLL CALL. 9 Councilmembers present: Mayor Cavanaugh; Councilmembers Sparks, Thuesen, and Horst. 10 Councilmembers absent: Hodson. 11 Also present: City Manager Michael Morrison; and City Attorney Jerome 12 Gilligan. 13 IV. APPROVAL OF JANUARY 23, 2001 CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING AGENDA. 14 Motion by Thuesen to approve the January 23, 2001 City Council Regular Meeting Agenda with 15 the following additions: 16 17 Add Item E3;Resolution 01=034, re:Drainage easement,for the Harding Street Ponding Project. 18 Consider Item IXF prior to Item IXA 19 Add Item XII, Report on Northwest Quadrant Planning Steering Committee 20 21 Motion carried unanimously. 22 V. PROCLAMATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS. 23 None. 24 25 VI. COMMUNITY FORUM. 26 Mayor Cavanaugh invited any residents in the audience to speak to the Council on items that are 27 not on the regular agenda. 28 Barry Tedlund introduced himself and stated he has been working diligently to open a fitness - 29 center at the St. Anthony Shopping Center. He explained that he started this process in October 30 of 2000 and had hoped to open in March of 2001. Last week Thursday, he was told he could get 31 the building permit the following day so he signed the lease and obtained the insurance coverage 32 he would need. Then, on Friday, he was told he would need a conditional use permit prior to 33 obtaining the building permit. Mr. Tedlund stated it appears the conditional use permit process is 34 lengthy and may effect the timing of opening his business. He asked if he would be able to 35 complete this process within six weeks and what type of conditions would be placed on a fitness 36 center. City Council Regular Meeting Minutes January 23, 2001 Page 2 1 City Manager Michael Momson explained that with any application for a commercial property, 2 the.Planning Commission has required a concept review, even if a conditional use permit or . 3 variance is not needed. He stated the concept review-will be before the Planning Commission 4 on February 20, 2001, the public hearing with mailed notice will be held on March 20, 2001, and 5 the Council consideration will be on March 27, 2001. The building permit is typically issued 6 after the Council approves the conditional use. He explained that a building permit can be 7 issued, however, Mr. Tedlund would have to proceed at his own risk should approval not be 8 granted. 9 City Attorney Jerome Gilligan asked if there would be any exterior revisions. Mr. Tedlund 10 stated the bulk of the cost is for interior improvements. 11 Horst stated the Planning Commission encouraged concept reviews since it sometimes smooths 12 out the conditional use permit process. However, it is not a requirement. He noted the fitness 13 center is a permitted use.so the conditions set by the Planning Commission and City Council 14 would relate to hours of operation, noise, trash can.placement, etc. 15 Thuesen asked if not.requiring a concept review with this request may establish a precedent for 16 future requests. 17 Horst explained that a concept approval allows the Planning Commission to better understand 18 what the project entails and allows them to indicate if they see any problems with the request. 19 Horst stated that in this case he sees no problem since this is a permitted use. 20 City Attorney Gilligan stated a health club is permitted with a conditional use. 21 Morrison explained that the public hearing and conditional use permit process are required but 22 Mr. Tedlund is requesting the ability to bypass the concept review process. 23, Sparks noted if the concept review is not used,the Planning Commission may still have 24 questions and the process slowed. 25 Mayor Cavanaugh stated his support to follow the concept review process, noting a.decision will 26 be made by March 27, 2001. He noted that the Planning Commission is also better prepared to 27 answer the types of questions being raised tonight. 28 Thuesen stated he would like to see what can be done to accommodate this project and assure a 29 timely decision. He commented on the importance of assuring the shopping center is viable and 30 the City is business friendly. City Council Regular Meeting Minutes January 23, 2001 Page 3 1 Mr. Tedlund stated he thought he acted prudently and had not attempted to short-circuit any City 2 process. He stated the information received on Friday that a conditional use permit is required . 3 causes problems since he has already signed the lease. 4 Mayor Cavanaugh stated he believes the ordinances are easily understood and he does not think 5 waiting until March 27, 2001 is too long. 6 Horst stated he would support by-passing the concept review and holding the public hearing in 7 February. He noted also that the Council has discussed canceling the February 27, 2001, meeting 8 so a workshop can be held. Horst stated he believes the process can be followed directly to the 9 Planning Commission public hearing and recommendation, and concluded within 30 days. 10 Mayor Cavanaugh questioned the size of the proposed fitness club and the applicant's past 11 business experience. Mr. Tedlund advised of the size of the fitness center and his business 12 experience. He stated he has surrounded himself with knowledgeable business people. 13 Mayor Cavanaugh restated his support to follow the established process which he believes is fair 14 and has been required of other,businesses. 15 Hearing no further response, Cavanaugh moved forward with the agenda. 16 VII. CONSENT AGENDA. 17 The following corrections were made to the January 9, 2001 Council meeting minutes: 18 Page 2, line 10, "He explained the City just completed this process at..." 19 Page 2, line 18, "Mornson stated he has spoken to Bob Kost..." 20 Page 14, line 3, "a different opinion than Bob Kost..." 21 Motion by Sparks to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. Said Consent Agenda consisted 22 of: 23 1. Council Regular Meeting Minutes—January 9, 2001, as corrected: and 24 2. Claims. 25 Motion carried unanimously. 26 VIII. PUBLIC HEARINGS. 27 A. Resolution 01-031, re: Amendment to the Chandler Place TIF Plan. 28 Mayor Cavanaugh opened the public hearing at 7:28 p.m. 29 City Manager Michael Morrison explained this action would allow the City to purchase Custom 30 Liquidators which is already within the TIF Plan. This amendment would add funds for the ql City Council Regular Meeting Minutes January 23, 2001 Page 4 1 purchase and possible demolition, and indicates the City will purchase the property. 'The benefits 2 are that-a tax increment district does not need to be established.but allows the City to hold the- 3 property for future development. 4 City Attorney Jerome Gilligan explained that it was not originally anticipated the City would 5 purchase this,thus the need for an amendment. Also, State Statute requires the building be 6 identified within the TIF Plan. 7 8 Morrison explained that while the City Council must hold the public hearing, the HRA must 9 adopt the resolution prior to the City Council considering Resolution 01-031. Because of that, he 10 recommended the Council stand in recess while the HRA meets to take that action. 11 Mayor Cavanaugh closed the public hearing at 7:31 p.m. 12 Mayor Cavanaugh stated the Council will return to this matter following adjournment of the 13 HRA meeting. 14 IX. GENERAL POLICY BUSINESS OF THE COUNCIL. 15. . . 16 F. Resolution 01-030 re: Sale of Tax Abatement-Bonds for Central Park Improvements 17 (Springsted, Inc.). 18 Bob Thistle, Springsted, Inc., presented the bids that were received today for the Central Park 19 Improvement project. He advised that St. Anthony maintained a Moody Rating of Al I. Mr. 20 Thistle stated they estimated a month ago that the interest rate would be about 5.50% to 5.60%. 21 However, the prime interest rate was lowered which resulted in significantly lower bids. He 22 advised that the low bid was received from Dain.Raucher Incorporated at 4.5621%0. 23 24 Mayor Cavanaugh asked which tax statements will contain this levy. Mr. Thistle advised of an 25 amendment that was processed after the last Council meeting since Hennepin County will handle 26 the tax abatement rather than TIF. Since this is an abatement district, it will show up in the City 27 levy but it will be the same.levy as if it had been TIF. If it were not an.abatement, there would . 28 have been a slight drop in the levy: 29 30 Motion by Sparks to adopt Resolution 01-030, re: Sale of Tax Abatement Bonds for Central Park 31 Improvements. 32 Motion carried unanimously. 33 A. Set date for Board of Review. 34 Motion by Sparks to schedule the local Board of Review for Tuesday, April 10, 2001, starting at 35 7:00 p.m. th= City Council Regular Meeting Minutes January 23, 2001 Page 5 1 City Manager Michael Morrison explained the Hennepin County Assessor's Office will be 2 available at-the meeting to answer.questions on the 2002 property evaluations. Anyone with 3 questions on their property evaluation can ask questions at that meeting. He advised that the 4 County Assessor can be contacted prior to that date as well. 5 Motion carried unanimously. 6 B. Resolution 01-026, re: 2001 Flood Relief Program (WSB, Inc.). 7 Todd Hubmer, WSB, Inc., advised the Council of the grant applications received thus far, and 8 those he expects will be received. 9 10 Motion by Thuesen to adopt Resolution 01-026, re: 2001 Flood Relief Program. 11 Mr. Hubmer stated that $100,000 of storm water utility funds will be dedicated in 2001 for the 12 program. This program will be available to every resident and business that is subject to 13 recurrent flooding for flood relief assistance. He stated the one page application can be 14 submitted to the City for up to $10,000 with 65%being paid by the City and 35%being paid by 15 the property owner. 16 Motion carried unanimously. 17 18 C. Resolution 01-027, re: Agreement with Metropolitan Council/City's I/I goals (WSB), 19 Inc. 20 Mr. Hubmer reported on the work of this project to address flooding. He explained it is also a 21 goal of the City's Comprehensive Plan to reduce clear water infiltration into the City's sanitary 22 sewer system. In acquiring the permit and accepting the Metropolitan Council goal,this 23 agreement outlines a procedure to which the City would agree on how to address clear water 24 infiltration. He noted the conditions placed on the City in this agreement with the Metropolitan 25 Council. Mr. Hubmer reviewed the various phases that would occur depending on whether the 26 City is within compliance with Metropolitan Council guidelines. He explained this program 27 quits once St. Anthony meets the Metropolitan Council's goals for two consecutive years. 28 However, if the City-were to fall out of compliance, the process would start again. 29 Mr. Hubmer stated this agreement would be in effect for ten years. He stated the procedure by 30 which they established the goal for reducing clear water infiltration, they believe, is reasonable 31 for St. Anthony and the City will come close to reaching that goal at the conclusion of the 32 projects that will be underway. However, a more aggressive inspection program may be needed 33 in some of the older areas of St. Anthony. 34 Horst asked how the I/I goals are measured. Mr. Hubmer stated the Metropolitan Council has 35 monitoring stations at the borders of St. Anthony to determine how much sanitary flow is being 36 contributed to the metro system. He explained how the average daily flow rate is established and 37 used to calculate'system peaks. City Council Regular Meeting Minutes January 23, 2001 Page 6 1 In response to Thuesen, Mr. Hubmer commented on where St. Anthony falls in a percentile 2 ranking of other communities. 3 Motion by Thuesen to adopt Resolution 01-027, re: Agreement with Metropolitan Council/City's 4 I/I goals. 5 Motion carried unanimously. 6 D. Resolution 01-028 re: Lighting agreement for 29t1 Avenue NE with Northern States 7 Power Company (WSB, Inc.). 8 Todd Hubmer, WSB, explained the contract with Xcel Energy is for the installation and 9 maintenance of decorative lighting on 29t1 Avenue. The total cost for installation of the 10 decorative lighting is $155,100, and the monthly energy and maintenance fees are $6.45 plus 11 $1.35 surcharge per fixture. He explained that the surcharge i.s the cost in energy and - 12 maintenance fees beyond what a standard street light would cost.- The maintenance fee would 13 cover the cost should one of the lights be damaged. 14 Horst asked how close this is to the previous estimate. Mr. Hubmer stated it is exactly what was 15 estimated: . 16 Thuesen asked if it was included in the budget. City Manager-Michael Morrison stated it was 17 included in the budget. 18 Thuesen asked if much of the work was completed and wires placed with the construction on 19 29th Avenue. Mr. Hubmer stated the conduit is in place as well as the base for the light 20 standards. 21 Thuesen asked about the methods to install the wiring.- Mr. Hubmer explained the contract 22 defines the methods for installing the conduit. If the installation is not done before the road is 23 paved,they will have to bore under it. 24 Sparks advised that a resident has asked if lighting of the boulevard will be discussed. 25 Mayor Cavanaugh suggested that a lighting survey be conducted since there are other dark areas 26 that should also be addressed. 27 Motion by Sparks to adopt Resolution 01=028, re: Lighting agreement for 29t1 Avenue NE with 28 Excel Energy (Northern States Power Company). 29 Motion carried unanimously. City Council Regular Meeting Minutes January 23, 2001 Page 7 l E. Harding Street Project: Review propea acquisition and update (Evergreen Land 2 Services). 3 4. Discuss condemnation process. 4 Matt Storm, Evergreen Land Services, stated there are a number of properties remaining 5 to obtain easements which will take some time so he would recommend the City proceed 6 with the condemnation process so the 90-day clock begins. He noted that during that 7 time period, negotiations with residents can continue. 8 City Attorney Jerome Gilligan advised how the condemnation timing and quick take 9 process occurs. He noted that once the Harding Street pond project is awarded, the City 10 is committed to do the project and easements are needed for the City to complete the 11 project. He recommended the contract be awarded and the quick take process started. 12 Mr. Storm stated ten easements are needed. Three residents have retained the same 13 attorney and will be getting their own appraisals done, which will probably take until 14 March. He advised that negotiations with those three property owners has, basically, 15 stalled. 16 Sparks noted the Council is being asked to vote on the properties that have accepted the 17 offer. 18 Mr. Hubmer reviewed the timeline for this project with construction starting the 19 beginning of May. He noted that the condemnation proceedings may go into the second 20 week of May, which means the contract would be delayed by several weeks. Mr. 21 Hubmer explained that the contractor may be willing to push the schedule back several 22 weeks, but timing needs to stay on schedule. 23 Sparks asked about the maintenance agreement and if that issue has come up during 24 negotiations. Mr. Hubmer stated that is part of the process, noting the contingencies 25 added to the agreements signed to-date. 26 Mr. Storm reviewed the issues that were part of the negotiations including the relocation 27 of a watering line and tree. Other issues were raised about the pond and if it will have 28 sand. 29 Sparks stated she knows one resident has asked for a maintenance agreement on the pond. 30 Mr. Hubmer advised that another resident meeting will be held on February 6, 2001, to 31 review the landscaping and maintenance issues. He stated that the City will have to 32 maintain this pond to remove sedimentation and debris. 33 1. Resolution 01-032 re: Drainage easement for 2800-31ST Avenue NE. City Council Regular Meeting Minutes January 23, 2001 Page 8 1 City Manager Michael Mornson noted the three actions that will be needed to address 2 property acquisitions. 3 Motion by Horst to adopt Resolution 01-032, re: Drainage easement for 2800-3151 Avenue 4 NE. 5 Motion carried unanimously. 6 2. Resolution 01-033, re: Drainage easement for 2908-30`h Avenue NE. 7 Motion by Horst to-adopt Resolution 01-033, re: Drainage easement for 2908-30`h 8 Avenue NE. 9 Motion carried unanimously. 10 3. Resolution 01-034, re: Drainage easement for the Harding Street Ponding Project 11 Motion by Horst to adopt Resolution 01-034, re: Drainage easement for the Harding 12 Street Ponding Project. 13 Motion carried unanimously. 14 Jeff Wenker, 2829 30th Avenue NE, stated he lives next to the property the City owns. 15 He stated one of their major concerns is the truck traffic from the contractor. He stated if 16 the contractor must stay within the lot line, it is within four feet of his house. 17 Mr. Hubmer explained that a large orange fence will be placed at the project perimeter 18 and the trucks will stay within that area. He stated construction activities do generate 19 vibrations and they will attempt to move this activity as far away from the homes as is 20 reasonable. 21 Mr. Wenker stated his concerns with maintenance of the pond, hours of construction, size 22 of activity area,who is responsible for home damage, timetable for the project, and 23 - liability. He stated he would like to receive copies of the.plans prior to the neighborhood 24 meeting so he is better able to respond. .Mr. Wenker asked about property taxes and if the 25 property would be reappraised. 26 Mayor Cavanaugh noted that these questions will probably be asked at the neighborhood 27 meeting. He stated his support.to have maintenance agreements on all of the City's 28 ponds. 29 Mr. Hubmer stated he will try to get copies of the plans from the landscape architect so 30 residents have an opportunity to review them prior to the neighborhood meeting. He 31 commented on the previous seismic readings that were taken during construction of the City Council Regular Meeting Minutes January 23, 2001 Page 9 1 Silver Point Park project and the finding that the project did not even come close to the 2' vibrations needed to.result in damage.. Mr. Hubmer stated'the specifications detail these 3 issues and it is the contractor's responsible to assure damage does not occur. If damage 4 were to occur, the contractor is responsible to correct it. 5 Sparks asked if the contractor could contest the damage if the homes are not inspected 6 prior to the start of the project. Mr. Hubmer stated he will do some further research on 7 that issue and report back. 8 Thuesen stated he would like the City to do what ever-possible to address the concerns of 9 the residents and make them comfortable with this project. 10 Mr. Hubmer stated he will answer the other questions raised by Mr. Wenker at the 11 February 6, 2001 neighborhood meeting. 12 Mayor Cavanaugh noted the attendance of John Shardlow and asked the Council to receive his report at 13 this time. 14 XII. INFORMATION AND ANNOUNCEMENTS, 15 A. Report on Northwest Quadrant Planning Steering Committee 16 City Manager Michael Morrison stated he asked John Shardlow to attend the meeting tonight to 17 present an update on the information from the Northwest Quadrant Planning Steering 18 Committee. 19 John Shardlow, DSU, reviewed the proposed meeting date schedule. He explained their first 20 meeting was organizational and all future meetings will provide an opportunity.to listen to 21 direction and provide input. The February 16, 2001 meeting will be with developers to obtain 22 their input and the additional meeting will be held on Thursday, February 22, 2001. Then a 23 community forum meeting will be held in March. After that, the plan will be refined and brought 24 back to the Steering Committee. 25 Mr. Shardlow stated they have been clear with the Steering Committee and may have a different 26 recommendation than will be received from the Steering Committee. He reviewed the different 27 uses people want to see made of the Salvation Army property and stated they will continue to 28 bring people and input into the process. 29 Horst asked about a potential purchase by Hennepin County Parks. Mr. Shardlow stated a 30 discussion occurred but the Committee was not solicited for its viewpoint. City Council Regular Meeting Minutes January 23, 2001 Page 10 1 Thuesen asked if the Council will receive the tax capacity data and other detailed information 2 needed to make a determination.. Mr. Shardlow stated they will provide a cost benefit analysis of 3 all of the alternatives. 4 Thuesen asked if developer interest will be clear at that point. Mr. Shardlow stated he has talked 5 with several residential contractors and all desire development of that property for residences. 6 He stated he has also talked with national developers who are interested in the entire site. 7 Thuesen asked what role the Metropolitan Council will have in this project. Mr. Shardlow stated 8 they are interested in supporting and promoting their Smart Growth Twin Cities Initiative, 9 however, there is a great deal of flexibility in how that is interpreted. He noted this is under 10 utilized property and the project will provide new investment opportunities, support transit, etc. 11 Thuesen asked how the schools will accommodate new housing and how the City will address 12 the added services needed for new housing. Mr. Shardlow stated those issues will be addressed 13 as well. 14 Sparks asked what impact a purchase by Hennepin County Parks would have. Mr. Shardlow, 15 stated it would have a definite-impact and advised of the meetings he has attended. He noted that 16 Hennepin County Parks has already indicated that the size is not adequate for a regional park 17 facility with active recreation. However, their program will be better understood as discussions 18 continue. Mr: Shardlow stated they will also talk with Columbia Heights about the option of 19 including the beach property. 20 Sparks asked if Hennepin County Parks has asked for a letter of approval from St. Anthony. 21 Mornson stated approval was given to proceed with negotiations and to purchase the property. 22 However, the City does not want that to close all options for,the rest of the property. He stated 23 his understanding that the purchase agreement may be closed shortly so they will be before the 24 Council at that point. 25 Sparks stated it comes down to whether you want to see tax bearing property or open space. 26 Mornson noted that Phase II will now start with the final.document expected in July of 2001. 27 Mr. Shardlow stated that is correct. 28 Mornson reviewed the meetings that will be occurring and advised that a grant of$120,000 will 29 be received to cover the cost of the consultants. 30 Mr. Shardlow reviewed how the March 10, 2001, issues forum meeting will be conducted and 31 stated they will distribute a worksheet to assure input is obtained from everyone. Mornson stated 32 the Council has indicated they may attend that meeting to observe. I City Council Regular Meeting Minutes January 23, 2001 Page 11 1 Mr. Shardlow stated he anticipates they will meet with Hennepin County Parks. Mayor 2 Cavanaugh encouraged them to meet prior to the February meeting.. 3 IX. GENERAL POLICY BUSINESS OF THE COUNCIL (continued). 4 F. Resolution 01-030, re: Sale of Tax Abatement Bonds for Central Park Improvements 5 (Springsted, Inc.) 6 This item was considered earlier in the meeting. 7 G. Resolution 01-029, re: Approval of Phase II Investigation relating to the redevelopment 8 of Central Park. 9 Mr. Hubmer explained this action is a proposal from BRW URS, Inc. to complete the Phase II 10 investigation related to the redevelopment of Central.Park. He stated there are two options on 11 how to deal with the materials found. One is to remove the materials from site and the other is to 12 leave them on site with a cap. The Phase II investigation will determine the limits of the dump, 13 contents of the dump, and include laboratory analysis to determine the acceptable method for 14 handling the material. Mr. Hubmer stated removal of the material is an expensive option. 15 Mr. Hubmer stated they would like to coordinate this effort with the Harding Street project that 16 will have additional soils which could be used in the cap. He explained the PCA would decide 17 the acceptable material that can be used in the cap and once determined, they will haul that 18 material from the Harding Street project to Central Park. If the cap material needs to be 19 purchased and hauled in, it will result in a significant expense. 20 Mr. Hubmer explained this would be a change to the Harding Street project since the contractor 21 had intended to use that material within the Harding Street project. He stated there is a 90-day 22 hold to award the contract to March 13th which allows the investigative work to proceed and 23 identify the quantity of materials needed from the Harding Street Project. Once determined, the 24 Harding Street project contract can be amended. He stated he believes the Harding Street project 25 contains adequate materials for use in both projects. 26. Thuesen asked if the ground water situation impacts the ability to place and cap the materials. 27 Mr. Hubmer stated that will be researched and taken into consideration. He stated the PCA can 28 require the City to conduct additional laboratory analysis that could incur additional costs. 29 Thuesen noted the estimate of$52,500 and that the potential exists for a large cost over run. He 30 suggested that proactive discussions occur about how this funding can be accommodated. 31 Sparks asked if the favorable bond market gives the City some additional funding. City Attorney 32 Jerome Gilligan stated there will be more abatement dollars but that would be received each year, 33 not all in the first year. City Council Regular Meeting Minutes January 23, 2001. Page 12 1 Thuesen stated he would like to receive a report from staff on possible funding sources for cost 2 over runs. City Manager Michael Morrison stated that can be addressed after the bidding process 3 is concluded. 4 Mayor Cavanaugh stated the Park Commission may be interested in receiving timelines on this 5 project. Mr. Hubmer stated if the timeline proceeds as first laid out, the City should receive 6 some good bids. 7 In response to Sparks, Mr. Hubmer reviewed the sources for the City's water and the depth of the 8 wells in comparison to this project. 9 10 Motion by Horst to adopt Resolution 01-029, re: Approval of Phase II Investigation relating to 11 the redevelopment of Central Park. 12 Motion carried unanimously. 13 Mr. Hubmer provided an update on the sewer claim and advised that it is currently being 14 processed and should be concluded in two to three weeks. 15 H. Resolution 01-025, re: 2001 Pay Equity Implementation Report. 16 City Manager Morrison explained this report is required to be submitted every three years. He 17 noted it establishes salary ranges for different classifications and it has been determined that St. 18 Anthony is in compliance. 19 Motion by Sparks to adopt Resolution 01-025, re: 2001 Pay Equity Implementation Report. 20 Motion carried unanimously. 21 X. REPORTS FROM COMMISSIONS AND STAFF. 22 A. Planning Commission_January 16, 2001. 23 -Planning Commissioner Hanson was in attendance'to present the Planning Commission's 24 comments. He advised that the Planning Commission appointed Chris Melsha as the Chairman 25 and Randy Stille as Vice Chairman for 2001. He explained that no public hearings were 26 scheduled and the Walgreens issue was tabled at the applicant's request. 27 Planning Commissioner Hanson advised of the presentation made by Fire Chief Hewitt related to 28 Code enforcement. 29 Planning Commissioner Hanson advised of the goals established for 2001 including the creation 30 of a subcommittee to address the possible need for Code revisions. He also provided a status 31 report on other Planning Commission subcommittee activity. City Council Regular Meeting Minutes January 23, 2001 Page 13 1 Planning Commissioner Hanson stated they look forward to a joint session with the City. 2 Council. 3 Mayor Cavanaugh stated his support for the Planning Commission's goals for 2001. 4 XI. REPORTS FROM CITY MANAGER AND COUNCILMEMBERS. 5 City Manager's report: 6 City Manager Michael Mornson noted the Council has indicated a desire to schedule a study 7 session each month, however, some City business may need to be addressed at the study session. 8 He reviewed the types of issues that will be discussed at the study sessions which will be 9 broadcast and meeting minutes recorded. 10 Mornson noted that a 4/5ths vote is required for a conditional use permit so that activity could 11 not occur at the February 27, 2001 meeting since two members have indicated they will be 12 absent. 13 Planning Commissioner Hanson stated he thinks the fitness center could continue without a 14 concept review. 15 Sparks advised that the Middle Mississippi Water Management Organization is proceeding to the 16 Legislature to see if they can levy within the subwatershed. If that is not successful, they plan to 17 issue a levy and guarantee any money generated from St. Anthony will be spent on projects 18 within St. Anthony. 19 Sparks announced the Kiwanis meeting to be held tomorrow at the Stonehouse where Mayor 20 Cavanaugh will talk about the State of the City. 21 Sparks announced the receipt of a$5,000 grant to offer enrichment classes at Wilshire Park. 22 Sparks advised that at the Community Prevention Coalition.meeting last week;it was indicated 23 there will be a new target market, a grassroots organization of young people working against the 24 cigarette industry. 25 Sparks stated the Girl Scouts are selling cookies and encouraged all to purchase from them. 26 Mayor Cavanaugh stated he received a call from the Chair of VillageFest who was wondering 27 where it can occur this year since the park will be under construction. He stated he suggested a 28 meeting be held to discuss what can be done this year. 29 30 XII. INFORMATION AND ANNOUNCEMENTS. 31 This item was considered earlier in the meeting. J City Council Regular Meeting Minutes January 23, 2001 Page 14 1 2 RECESS AND RECONVENE. . 3 Motion by Thuesen to recess the Council meeting at 9:23 p.m. 4 Motion carried'unanimously. 5 Motion by Thuesen to reconvened the Council meeting at 9:25 p.m. 6 Motion carried unanimously. 7 VIII. PUBLIC HEARINGS (continued). 8 A. Resolution 01-031, re: Amendment to the Chandler Place TIF Plan. 9 Motion by Thuesen to adopt Resolution 01-031, re: Amendment to the Chandler Place TIF Plan. 10 Motion carried unanimously. l 1 City Manager Michael Mornson reminded all of the upcoming legislative session. 12 XIII. .ADJOURNMENT. 13 Motion by Sparks to adjourn the meeting at 9:28 p.m. 14 Respectfully submitted, 15 Carla Wirth 16 Timesaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc. I V' I CITY OF ST. ANTHONY 2 PARKS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES 3 January 8, 2001 4 7:00 p.m. 5 I. CALL TO ORDER. 6 Chair Jindra called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. and welcomed everyone in attendance. 7 II. ROLL CALL. 8 Present: Chair Carol Jindra,Commissioners Dan Ganley,Colleen Hallada,Jan 9 Jenson, Doug Koehntop and George Wagner 10 Absent: Commissioner Julie Gebhardt 11 Also Present: Public Works Director Jay Hartman,Representative from Community 12 Services Diane Skrivseth; Representative from Sports Boosters 13 George Zurbey. 14 III. PARK COMMISSION LIAISON FOR CENTRAL PARK. 15 Jindra noted that at the last Park Commission meeting they made a recommendation to have a 16 construction.liaison for .Central. Park. being Morrie Anderson. She indicated he was a Parks 17 Department worker at the City of New Brighton. Jindra stated that during construction of Central 18 Park this liaison position would allow the Park Commission a voice and would keep them informed. 19 She explained the Park Commission would also be interested in having a Park Commission member 20 as a liaison to the weekly construction meetings. 21 Wagner indicated he felt that Mr.Anderson being a consultant on the Park Commission's behalf was 22 not necessary. Ganley indicated he felt the liaison from the Park Commission would be useful as 23 they would have a seat at the table. 24 Zurbey indicated he felt the consultant would be worth the money as this was a large project for the 25 City and Park Commission to be undertaking. 26 Ganley indicated the consensus reached in-past discussions was to strictly have a liaison at the 27 weekly construction meetings to keep the Park Commission abreast of the ongoing issues. 28 Mr. Hartman stated he felt a Park Commission liaison could be on this committee but asked what 29 their role would be. Jindra indicated she felt the role of Mr. Anderson was to share his experience 30 and expertise as the park reaches the construction phases. Zurbey concurred. 31 Mr. Hartman asked what role the Commission would like Mr. Anderson to assume and how long 32 they would like him to work for the City with this project. Parks Commission Meeting Minutes January 8, 2001 Page 2 I Mr.Hubmer indicated the recommendations made by Mr.Anderson would need to have some level 2 of review by the Park Commission if he.;is speaking on their_behalf, He indicated this may. be 3. opening a"can of_worms"-if there is no accountability.and no definition of his job position. 4 Jindra explained she felt the reasoning behind seeking Mr. Anderson was to seek expertise beyond 5 Mr. Hubmer and to keep another Park Commission voice at the construction meetings. 6 Councilmember Thuesen asked the Park Commission to name the roles they foresee Mr. Anderson 7 taking on. 8 Zurbey indicated he sees Mr.Anderson bringing additional options to the table for the construction 9 process. Mr. Hartman indicated he understands his expertise and usefulness on this project and 10 decision making abilities. He asked the Commission how much time they would like Mr.Anderson 11 to spend on this item. 12 Jindra asked that this item be tabled to hold discussion on the Central Park Pavilion and asked for 13 additional comments regarding the Park Commission's use of Morrie Anderson as a consultant and 14 voice for the work at Central Park. 15 Mr. Hubmer noted he.was.surprised by the actions of the Park Commission and indicated he was. 16 sorry for.the mixed feelings of the Commissioners from the past meeting.,He.noted he works on this 17 project with numerous staff at BRW. Mr.Hubmer indicated the role of Mr.Anderson was a question 18 to him as well because of the cost involved on the City's part. 19 Mr.Hubmer indicated he is not trying to be difficult with the Commission,but is trying to step back 20 and determine the process for the members to follow. He explained the process or chain of 21 command he was suggesting has been used in other communities and was very typical for such large 22 projects. Mr. Hubmer stated it was not his intent to be obstructive with the Commission or ignore 23 their decisions. He indicated that at the time of construction documents much of the decisions are 24 brought to a staff level, and then brought to the Park Commission through staff. 25 . Mr. Hubmer noted he is willing offer his suggestions in lowering the cost of the project. He stated 26 the final'decision would remain with.the Park Commission. Mr.:Hubmer indicated construction 27 items could be bid out any way for the Commission to review. 28 Jindra noted she was not concerned with financial spending at this time, but work towards a nicer 29 pavilion. She indicated she feels the City of St. Anthony does not have a typical situation for this 30 park because the City does not have a parks and recreation department. Jindra stated the Park 31 Commission does not want to be left out of the planning process from this point forward because of 32 all of the work that has went into the process thus far. 33 Mr.Hartman stated the Commission's degree of involvement would be maintained throughout this 34 project. He indicated the handout diagram on the level of command for the project was standard and Parks Commission Meeting Minutes January 8, 2001 Page 3 1 not meant to hurt anyone's feelings. Mr. Hartman explained there needs to be some resolution of 2 feelings between the Commission; staff, and.the consultants. . 3 Jindra stated she would like to see the communication increased between the Commission and staff 4 to resolve hard feelings and keep all issues in the open. Zurbey concurred. 5 Jindra indicated she would like to have someone involved throughout this entire process and to have 6 access to the site. She noted this was the reasoning behind asking for Mr. Anderson and a Park 7 Commission liaison. Mr.Hubmer indicated this would not be a problem. He stated he is not looking 8 to snub the Park Commission and would like to continue to serve the City and Park Commissioners. 9 Mr. Hubmer stated the hard feelings started from his work on the pavilion and lack of comments 10 from the Commission. He indicated he was unaware of the negative feelings of the Commission as 11 he only referred to the meeting minutes for direction from the Commission. Mr. Hubmer reported 12 he does not want to work against the Commission within any aspect of Central Park. 13 Koehntop stated there was agreement to have a Park Commission liaison at the construction 14 meetings on a weekly basis to listen and update the Commission on the issues. 15 Wagner volunteered for.the position and indicated he worked on several projects in.the past with the 16 City. Jindra indicated she was not ready,to appoint a liaison at this time; but stated she wants the 17 Commission to come to a greater consensus on this issue. 18 The Park Commission came to a consensus to have a liaison from the Park Commission to the 19 weekly construction meetings. They noted this position would be to have an extra set of"eyes and 20 ears" for this project and to report back to the Commission of the upcoming events and issues. 21 Zurbey indicated he would like Mr.Hubmer to keep the project roughly$1.6 million and to keep the- 22 Park Commission aware of options or tradeoffs for savings within this project. Mr. Hubmer stated 23 he would keep on top of these tradeoffs and keep the Commission aware of their options. He 24 explained.that because the Commission meets once a month he would like subcommittee members 25 to report to Mr. Hartman of their suggestions and questions throughout the month. 26 Jenson asked how the Park Commission subcommittees would work. Mr. Hubmer stated he would 27 pass along the first set of plans to the Commission members upon receipt from BRW, for review 28 within the subcommittees before the next Park Commission meeting. He noted after review the 29 subcommittee's comments and suggestions could be forwarded to staff and then brought to BRW's 30 attention. 31 Mr.Hubmer asked how the chalk line for the ball fields was done in the past. He questioned if the 32 Commission would be in favor of flexible stakes in the ground for alignment. Mr. Hartman noted 33 the chalk lines were measured each time in the past,but the flexible stakes would be a great addition. Parks Commission Meeting Minutes January 8, 2001 Page 4 1 Zurbey asked how the subcommittees would be able to respond to all the questions of the community 2 and staff. Mr. Hubmer indicated the subcommittees would have to wprk through Mr. Hartman to 3 reach BRW with.all questions and concerns. 4 Mr. Hubmer noted he would need direction from the.Commission on the pavilion and concession 5 stand. He stated the north end of the park was still in flux. Mr.Hubmer encouraged the Commission 6 to take their time with designing and placing the pavilion within the park. Mr. Hubmer indicated 7 the shape, size and location of these footprints would need to be noted before BRW could finalize 8 the park layout plans and commence bidding. 9 Mr. Hartman asked for a final date on having the size and-footprint of the pavilion and concession 10 stand. Mr. Hubmer indicated he would need this information by the February.meeting. 11 Zurbey indicated he did not feel it would be possible to have this information by February. Mr. 12 Hartman stated he felt this would be possible if the subcommittees were to meet several times 13 between now and the February meeting. He indicated if the subcommittees meet and have 14 presentations at the next meeting,the rest of the park would not be held up any,further. 15 Mr.Hartman asked if the buildings would be under a separate contract or within the bid of the entire 16 : parka Mr..Hubmer stated the Park Commission would be better served with-the buildings as a 17 separate contract to allow the Commission time to resolve the pavilion and concession stand issues. 18 He noted the Park Commission would not be spending any more money if the project was done in 19 conjunction with the park or completed separately. 20 Mr.Hubmer indicated the City has allotted$180,000 for the building construction and engineering. 21 He noted if the City chooses not to use BRW for the pavilion and concession stand those funds 22 would be allocated to the firm the Park Commission chooses. 23 Mr. Hubmer reviewed the Phase I Environmental plans with the Park Commission. He noted the 24 MPCA has been alerted him of borings from this site which were.questionable. Mr.Hubmer stated 25 the City would be entering in the VIC program with the MPCA to clean up the Central Park site if 26 needed. He noted the site has been capped at this time with four feet of clay to allow for the use of 27 the ball fields: 28 Jenson asked how deep the borings were at Central Park. Mr. Hubmer indicated the borings were 29 approximately 25 feet at the Central Park site. He noted the Phase II Environmental study would 30 greater define the area of contamination and the actions that the City would need to take. 31 Jindra asked if the sledding hill would be kept intact. Mr. Hubmer stated there would be a ten foot 32 vertical change and a five foot section would be eliminated on one side of the hill. Parks Commission Meeting Minutes January 8,-2001 Page 5 l Mr.Hartman asked for a clearer definition as to the access to the wading pool and pavilion area. Mr. 2 : . Hubmer stated the service road could function as a trail but that a sidewalk system may need to be 3. added in this area: 4 It was noted the Park Commission would like shuffleboard dropped from the Central Park plan 5 because the equipment would be too hard to find and keep stocked. 6 Jindra questioned if the main entrance to the park on the northern side of the park. Mr. Hubmer 7 explained a main set of stairs could be added to the area to allow for additional access. 8 III. APPROVE DECEMBER 11,2000 PARKS COMMISSION NEIGHBORHOOD MEETING 9 MINUTES. 10 Motion by Ganley, second by Jenson, to approve the December 11, 2000 Parks Commission 11 Neighborhood Meeting Minutes as submitted. 12 Motion carried unanimously. 13 APPROVE DECEMBER 11, 2000 PARKS COMMISSION MINUTES. 14 Motion by Ganley, second by Jenson, to approve the December 11, 2000 Parks Commission 15 Minutes with one change on.Page.3, Line 2,to read, "Jindra rioted the Commission is looking to. 16 recreate the shelter and add a picnic pavilion near the shelter as a free standing structure. 17 Motion carried.unanimously. 18 IV. DISCUSS PAVILION AND WARMING HOUSE DESIGNS WITH JOHN DRUGER FROM 19 SADNESS CONSTRUCTION. 20 Jindra reported John Druger was before the Commission to present them with potential plans for 21 the pavilion and warming house for Central Park. Mr. Druger reviewed the plan and layout of 22 the pavilion with the Commission. 23 Jindra asked for the size of the structure. .Mr. Druger indicated there was approximately 1,300 24 total square feet: 25 Mr.Druger reviewed the outdoor picnic area near the pavilion and stated the area would be 24 26 feet by 36 feet. He indicated there would be handicap access near the building to allow access to 27 the building and picnic area. 28 Skrivseth asked if there would be a folding wall between the large room. Mr. Druger indicated 29 there would be a folding wall between the rooms to have the meeting room be split in two if 30 needed. Parks Commission Meeting Minutes January 8, 2001 Page 6 1 Skrivseth questioned if storage areas were noted within this plan. Mr. Druger indicated he 2 designed storage areas throughout the pavilion and that doors and locks could be added to the 3 storage for safety.and security. . 4 Jindra asked if the restrooms would have access from the indoors and outdoors. Mr. Druger 5 indicated indoor and outdoor access would add to the number of square feet within the structure 6 but could be accomplished. He indicated he wasn't certain of the Commission's wishes when 7 designing the proposed pavilion. 8 Koehntop asked if the positioning of the restrooms would be a concern. Mr. Hartman noted there 9 would be a concern with the restrooms in the rear of the building as far as vandalism. He to explained that they would not be attractive in the front either. 1 l Jindra asked if the windows were standard windows or vandal proof. Mr. Druger indicated the 12 windows were placed relatively high on the structure to avoid easy access and provide 13 ventilation. He noted the siding would be painted concrete block which would be easy to remove 14 any graffiti from vandals. 1.5 Mr. Hartman asked for a sketch on the concession stand. Mr.Druger indicated he did not have a 16 sketch of the building at this,time,but indicated it would have a similar structure as the pavilion 17 but scaled down to a 20 foot by 20 foot building with restrooms and a concession stand. 18 Jenson asked if the height of each structure would be the same. Mr. Druger indicated the height 19 of the pavilion and picnic area would be within one foot of each other. 20 Mr. Hartman asked for the elevation of the building. Mr. Druger-stated the eave was at nine feet 21 which should be high enough to remove the temptation of climbing on the roof from vandals. 22 Zurbey asked if the copula would look appropriate on the 20 foot by 20 foot concession stand. 23 Mr. Druger stated it could be placed on the concession stand as is, or altered and used only for 24 ventilation. 25 Koehntop indicated he would like the pavilion and concession stand io.remain a more recessed 26 part of the park and not have the Commission make a bold statement with the structures. 27 Mr. Hartman thanked Mr. Druger for the presentation and indicated the Park Commission would 28 now be forming several subcommittees to greater define the uses within each structure. Jindra 29 concurred. 30. Jindra indicated the Commission would be forming a subcommittee for purposes of discussing 31 the ball fields, landscaping plan and the pavilion/concession stand design. Parks Commission Meeting Minutes January 8, 2001 Page 7 1 Jindra indicated Colleen Hallada, Doug Koehntop, and Dan Ganley would be the acting members 2 for the landscape committee. She explained Denise Dunn, Jan Jenson and George Zurbey would 3 comprise the ball field subcommittee. .Jindra explained Diane Skrivseth, George.Wagner, Julie 4 Gebhardt and she would work on the pavilion and concession stand design. 5 Jenson asked for direction from staff on how the subcommitt ees would function. Mr. Hubmer 6 noted all final questions of the Park Commission from BRW would be forwarded along with the 7 park plans for the committee members to review. 8 Jindra asked that all subcommittees meet before the next meeting and report back to the Park 9 Commission at that time. 10 Jenson suggested the pavilion restroom entrances face the park.and not face the residential area. 11 The Commission.concurred. 12 . Skrivseth indicated she would like to see greater ventilation within the pavilion for summer 13 recreation activities for Community Services. Jindra noted this suggestion for the subcommittee 14 to discuss. 15 Mr.Hartman_reviewed several pavilion plans from SEH for the Commission subcommittee to . 16 review. He asked if the Commission would be interested in seeking additional park pavilion 17 plans from SEH. Mr. Hartman stated he could seek out this information for the next meeting if 18 warranted. 19 Ganley indicated he feels Mr. Druger's work was adequate and at a lower cost than SEH. Jindra 20 indicated she would respond to this in greater detail after reviewing the plans both sets of plans. 21 Councilmember Thuesen asked if the warming house would be torn down for next season or if it 22 would be available for community services programs. Mr. Hubmer indicated that building was 23 not part of the Central Park project. 24 Councilmember Thuesen indicated he.would like to see Community Services kept in mind.for 25 the pavilion services'and amount of storage available. 26 Councilmember Thuesen indicated this would be his last meeting as a Councilmember liaison. 27 He stated Randy Hodson would be the liaison for the year 2001. Councilmember Thuesen 28 suggested the Park Commission suggest to him to level of commitment expected from him as a 29 liaison member. 30 Jenson stated the Lion's may be interested in providing dug outs at Central Park if this field 31 became the home field for the Legion Team. Koehntop stated the neighboring residents may be 32 hesitant to take on this commitment. The Commission indicated they would discuss this matter 33 in greater detail at a future meeting. ION Parks Commission Meeting Minutes January 8, 2001 Page 8 1 V. REPORTS 2 A. Community Services. 3 Skrivseth'noted there was nothing new at this time. 4 B. School Board. 5 Dunn reported she was busy with the retirement of Warren_and are looking for a 6 replacement. She noted a consultant group was seeking applicants at this time. 7 C. Sports Boosters. 8 Zurbey indicated there no meeting held in December. 9 VI. OTHER BUSINESS. 10 A. Nomination of Chair and Vice Chair of the Park Commission for 2001. 11 Motion by Koehntop, seconded by Ganley to nominate and appoint Jindra as the Chair for the 12 Park Commission for 2001. 13 The motion passed unanimously. 14 Motion by Jindra, seconded by Hallada to nominate and appoint Doug Koehntop as the Vice- 15 Chair for the Park Commission for 2001. 16 The motion passed unanimously. 17 VII. ADJOURNMENT. 18 Motion by Wagner, second by Hallada, to adjourn the meeting at 9:03 p.m. 19 Respectfully submitted, 20 Heidi Guenther 21 Timesaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc. CITY OF ST. ANTHONY PARKS COMMISSION SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES January 29, 2001 5:30 p.m. I. CALL TO ORDER Chair Jindra called the special meeting to order at 5:42 p.m. and welcomed everyone in attendance. Due to the poor weather conditions, she indicated the meeting tonight will be in abbreviated form and all Agenda Items may not be addressed. H. ROLL CALL. Present: Chair Carol Jindra, Commissioners Dan Ganley, Julie Gebhardt, Colleen Hallada, and Jan Jensen. Absent: Commissioners Doug Koehntop and George Wagner. Also Present: Public Works Director Jay Hartman,Representative from Community Services Diane Skrivseth(arrived at 6:10 p.m.); Representative from Sports Boosters George Zurbey; and BRW Park Design Bob Kost. III. APPROVAL OF JANUARY 8,2001 PARKS COMMISSION MINUTES. Motion by Gebhardt, second by Zurbey,to approve the January 8,2001 Parks Commission Minutes correcting the name"Hubmer"to reflect"Kost." Motion carried unanimously. IV. INTRODUCTION OF MAURY ANDERSON. Jindra introduced Maury Anderson and reviewed his professional background and qualifications. V. APPOINT CONSTRUCTION LIAISON FROM PARKS COMMISSION FOR CENTRAL PARK REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT. Jindra stated that she would be interested in acting as the liaison from the Parks Commission for the Central Park Redevelopment Project.. 'It was.noted that George Wagner has also expressed interest. Consensus was reached to table this issue to the next meeting. VI. PRESENTATION ON PARK BUILDINGS BY MOLLY OLIVIER FROM SHORT, ELLIOT,HENDRICKSON. Jindra advised that they met at a park by Sunnyside School which has progressed nicely and encouraged all to visit this park to see the shelter. Jindra reported that it has been discussed to have a main shelter by the wading pool and eliminate the shelter with the concession stand. She stated the subcommittee decided it may make sense to Parks Commission Meeting Minutes January 29,2001 Page 2 focus on a main shelter by the wading pool, closer to the field, and rearrange the spacing of the wading pool,hockey rink, and fields. Then the permanent bathrooms could be located at Watertower Park. Gebhardt asked if the concession stand would be closer to the skate park. Jindra stated the separate concession stand would be eliminated. She noted this is partly due to the price estimates. Commissioner Jensen stated his support for this proposal. Gebhardt stated several comments were made at the neighborhood meeting about the lack of bathrooms and the distance to the bathrooms. Jindra stated they may ask the high school to place satellite bathrooms during the summer months. Mr. Hartman reviewed the cost estimates that were made. Zurbey noted the location of the existing sewer and water services and asked if that is a consideration. Mr. Kost stated new utility services are needed anyway so the cost would not be significant. Anderson stated the cost estimates being'used today are based on$150 per square foot. Mr. Kost stated he believes combining the buildings will be more cost effective and efficient. Jindra reviewed the building elements and configuration of the redesigned shelter. She noted the open pavilion space and the concession area located in the center. She stated they talked about using a color that is non-intrusive and blends into the area. Zurbey expressed concern about the distance from the fields to the concession stand. Anderson estimated it may add 100 feet in distance. Jindra suggested that Ms. Olivier be asked to recalculate the estimate based on this consolidated design. Anderson stated the shelter was estimated at$114 per square foot and Ms. Olivier indicated she will work with$150 per square foot. Gebhardt raise the issue of who will operate the concession stand. She stated she has heard people do not want this to become a"tournament facility"but she supports putting in a concession stand and figuring out the logistics later. Gebhardt asked if the concession stand will be used a lot. Parks Commission Meeting Minutes January 29, 2001 Page 3 Jensen stated he does not think the concession stand will be opened a lot, unless there is a weekend tournament event. He commented that running a concession stand takes a lot of planning. Zurbey stated he thinks the key issue is the bathrooms and how that can be incorporated into the football area so satellites are not needed. Jensen stated he sees potential for high school booster groups to use the concession stand in the spring. Then it would make sense to have a parent booster group to organize the concession stand. Skrivseth arrived at 6:10 p.m. Molly Olivier, architect from Short,Elliot, Hendrikson(SEH),was available via a speaker telephone connection. Jindra stated the consensus of the Commission is to proceed with a combined shelter with the concession stand connected to the building and facing south. She stated questions have been raised about the price and having more picnic tables. Ms. Olivier explained that she has to lay out the tables to provide ADA access around the tables. Jindra suggested that an area be extended to allow additional space for tables. Mr. Kost stated the building is 130 feet long with the patio space. He noted the wading and play areas are to the north so it may be a good idea to have the additional seating area in that location. Jindra stated they talked about making a more formal entrance to the park. Mr. Kost stated they did talk about that as well as the need for ADA access and possibly the location of some stairs. Jindra asked for a price estimate. Ms. Olivier stated the main body of the building is 2,241 square feet at$150 per foot,the pavilion is 1,131.5 square feet at$75 per square foot, the concrete pad would be $15 per square foot, and the area underneath the roof is at.$50 per square foot. Ms.Olivier stated this would total $499,367.50 plus a 10%contingency fee. She reviewed the types of building materials that would be included. Jindra asked about installing conduit at this time for possible future use. Ms. Olivier stated she did include the placement of J-box and conduit so it could be wired in the future. Jindra reviewed the costs for the Fridley park shelter which included demolition. Ms. Olivier stated she did not explore the cost of demolition and suggested they first determine under which contract that could occur. Parks Commission Meeting Minutes January 29, 2001 Page 4 Mr. Hartman asked about the bathroom by the tennis court. Ms. Olivier asked how much space they want to take for that bathroom and if a unisex handicapped restroom and drinking fountain is an option. Jindra stated the park already has drinking fountains so another is not needed in that location. Ms. Olivier stated it is 100 square feet and with a cost of$150 per square foot, it would cost $15,000 for one unisex bathroom. Ms. Olivier stated she does not have the actual materials"nailed down"but they will do a full blown cost estimate as soon as the floor plan and materials are finalized. Jindra asked about the position of the pavilion coming closer to the fields. Ms. Olivier stated that would be better addressed by Mr. Kost. Mr. Kost stated that issue has not yet been addressed since the Commission had not indicated whether they supported consolidating the shelters. He noted the patio space for the eight additional picnic tables and suggested the shape and materials be further addressed to assure it works well with the play areas. Jensen noted the cost estimate is quite high. Zurbey agreed and noted the cost estimate does not include demolition. Zurbey asked if this can be considered in phases. Mr. Kost estimated that an additional $400,000 would be needed. Mr. Hartman noted this project has gone from a refurbished structure to new construction. Andra questioned the cost estimate of$15,000 for the bathroom. Mr. Kost agreed that bathrooms cannot be estimated based on square footage. Jindra stated it was agreed to consolidate to one pavilion with a concession stand. Zurbey stated he does not want this project to be further delayed because an additional $400,000 is needed. He stated he likes the concept but would prefer to consider it as a Phase H project. Mr. Kost asked the Commission to first determine if there will be one building or two buildings. The Commission should then determine how large the one building would need to be and dollar threshold. Direction can then be given to the architect on the number of buildings and dollar amount available. At that point,the architect can design a facility to fit that direction. Mr. Kost suggested that the subcommittee meet again with Ms. Olivier to inform her of that information and address types of building finishes she should include. Parks Commission Meeting Minutes January 29, 2001 Page 5 Mr. Hartman stated the building size will probably not exceed this threshold. The Commission agreed. Mr. Kost stated their design will just identify the pad and they will bring the sewer and water within five feet of the building so the building contractor cari make the connection. Mr. Kost stated he will prepare a site plan which Mr. Hartman can provide to the Commission. Anderson suggested the subcommittee meet again'to address.the types of groups that will use this facility, peak attendance,need for picnic tables, etc. He stated he thinks this concept may include more covered space than is needed. Once those issues are identified, Ms. Olivier will be better able to determine the size of building which meets that need.. Skrivseth reviewed the current size of programs and estimated an attendance of at least 40 children. Zurbey stated he thinks the size of the concession stand and bathrooms (with double vanities) is too large. Jindra stated she thinks there is plenty of picnic space available. Skrivseth stated the picnic areas are rented out every summer weekend. The Commission agreed that the shelter.will not exceed 2,240 square.feet. Landscape Subcommittee Jindra stated the Landscape Subcommittee has not yet met. Field Subcommittee Zurbey stated this information gives them a lot if issues to raise with the athletic director. Jensen stated he has contacted a Senior Parks Designer for the City of St. Paul who deals with landscaping and trails and is willing to meet with the subcommittee and provide input. It was decided the Field Subcommittee would meet with this Senior Parks Designer on Wednesday, January 31,2001, and to also invite Ted Severson. . . Mr. Kost stated the plans can be finalized on February 12th. If approved by the Commission, then it will take them several weeks to complete the plans. Once the plans are.approved,they will go out for bids. He reviewed the other issues that they can get prices for in case the Commission wants to consider it for future planning. meeting with City Staff and BRW and indication that BRW would Anderson reviewed his m ty g include as many bidding options as possible to allow the Commission to make those decision once the bids are known. He stated they did drop the bid option for placing drain tile under the fields. Parks Commission Meeting Minutes January 29,2001 Page 6 Jindra noted this will be the main location for baseball play so she wants to assure the fields are properly drained. Anderson stated he would not recommend the use of a rubberized play mat since it is costly and he does not think it is more safe. He stated not using footings would save money but that issue was not discussed and should be addressed with Mr. Kost. Anderson stated most times the engineering firms error on the side of over design and expensive materials to assure that all are satisfied with the project once completed. He explained that when the final plan is completed,the Commission can make some of those changes. Anderson stated if the fencing can be done differently, it could save $25,000 to $30,000. He also thinks the cost of irrigation will be lower. However,they are concerned about the cost for the lighting which may come in higher due to poor soil conditions. Mr. Hartman stated over and above this will be about$60,000 in clean up, $52,000 in engineering, and about$10,000 for PCA costs. Anderson stated there could also be 50 change orders during the course of this project to address unknown issues. . Zurbey noted it may be time to push forward with contributions from the Lions Club and charitable gambling. Jindra suggested that grant opportunities also be researched. Anderson commented on a similar park facility and stated he will obtain information on their usage and covered table space needed for various sized groups. He stated they also have information on the size of group they can accommodate based on size,parking capacity, and bathroom space. Jindra asked Skrivseth and Mr. Hartman to provide information on park usage. Mr. Hartman suggested the Commission present an update on this project at a Council work session: Jindra stated the subcommittee will meet again to further define the plan which will be presented at the February 12, 2001 meeting. VII. REPORT/UPDATE FROM ROBERT KOST,BRW,INC. Jindra asked about the progress to improve the ice rink at Silver Point Park. Mr. Hartman stated it was designed as a holding pond,not an ice rink. However, it would be regraded next year. Parks Commission Meeting Minutes January 29, 2001 Page 7 Jindra asked if it was graded per specifications or if there was some recourse. Mr. Hartman restated it was designed.for and graded to act as a retention area and.trying to make it a rink is a stretch., He assured the Commission that it will work better next year. Zurbey asked if the contractor should pay for the regrading. Mr. Hartman stated he will research that issue. VIII. REPOR'T'S. A. Community Services. Skrivseth stated they will be meeting this Thursday, February 1,2001. B. School Board. No report was received. C. Snorts Boosters. Jindra noted the information from the Sports Boosters and advised they gave$3,000 for the drinking fountain and there may be more funding to come. Zurbey advised that charitable gambling is down but they just started a new raffle. Jindra suggested a formal letter be drafted to.requesf funding from the Lions.`Zurbey stated he would like to first meet with them to discuss these ideas. He stated he will call to request'a meeting date. IX. OTHER BUSINESS. Mr. Hartman reported that the Council has changed their schedule to include one regular meeting and one work session per month. Jindra reported on her attendance at the recent Council retreat and discussion held on goals. She advised she asked about inviting a Police Officer to discuss park patrolling and asked for the Commissioners to provide additional ideas. . Ganley reported on the Northwest Quadrant meeting he attended and reported the group will next get input from developers. He advised that the Salvation Army property should be considered as ' open' for now and a community-wide discussion will be held. Jindra stated at the Council retreat, a letter was distributed from Hennepin County Parks indicating they had made a market value offer. X. ADJOURNMENT. Motion by Gebhardt, second by Jensen,to adjourn the meeting at 7:38 p.m. Respectfully submitted,