HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC MINUTES 01271998 Meeting Sheet
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Box: 19
Folder: CC MINUTES AND AGENDAS 1998
Document: CC MINUTES 01271998
1 CITY OF ST. ANTHONY
CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
3 JANUARY 27, 1998
4 I. CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL.
5 The meeting was called to order at 7:00 P.M. followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Mayor
6 Ranallo.
7 II. ROLL CALL.
8 Councilmembers Present: Ranallo, Marks, Faust, Cavanaugh, and Thuesen.
9 Also Present: City Manager Mike Mornson.
10 Councilmembers Absent:None.
11 III. APPROVAL OF JANUARY 27, 1998 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA.
12 Motion by Marks, second by Faust to approve the January 27, 1998 Regular Council Meeting
13 Agenda as presented.
14 Motion carried unanimously.
15 IV. APPROVAL OF JANUARY 13, 1998 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES.
Motion by Marks, second by Thuesen to approve the January 13, 1998 Regular Council Meeting
16 Minutes with the following changes:
18 Page 8, Line 12: Remove "necessity" and replace with "amount".
19 Page 8, Line 31: Remove "property and replace with "properties".
20 Motion carried unanimously.
21 V. LICENSES/PERMITS/PETITIONS -None.
22 VI. PRESENTATION OF CLAIMS.
23 Motion by Marks, second by Faust to approve the claims A. through C.1.:
24 Cavanaugh requested that claim C.1. be withheld for discussion.
25 Marks amended his motion to include claims A. through B.l.c. Faust agreed to the amendment.
26
27 A. Storm Water Analysis:
28 1. WSB & Associates, Inc.
29 a. In the amount of$13,802.83 for professional services rendered from
30 December 1 through December 31, 1997 for Flood Problem Area
31 Analysis.
b. In the amount of$88.00 for professional services rendered from December
4k 1 through December 31, 1997 for Storm Drainage Task Force.
34 B. Road Improvement Projects:
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
January 27, 1998
Page 2
1 1. Rieke Carroll Muller Associates, Inc.
2 a. In the,amount of$250.00 for professional services rendered from
3 December 1 to December 31, 1997 for 1997 State Aid Report.
4 b. In the amount of$2,217.25 for professional services rendered from
5 November 30 to December 27, 1997 for 33rd Avenue Design.
6 C. In the amount of$3,949.70 for professional services rendered from
7 November 30 to December 27, 1997 for 1998 Street Improvements
8 Design/Bidding.
9 Motion carried unanimously.
10 Motion by Marks, second by Cavanaugh to approve the following claim:
11 C. Legal:
12 1. Foster, Wentzell. Hedback& Brever in the amount of$3,000.00 for professional
13 services rendered for January of 1998.
14 Cavanaugh asked exactly what service this is paying for.
Morrison explained that this is the cost of a contract to provide prosecution for the City Police.
Department.
17 Cavanaugh asked if this cost was offset by any income.
18 Mornson explained that the City pays the prosecution cost directly and is reimbursed all fines
19 collected. The fines are shown in the General Budget as miscellaneous income. This contract
20 will expire on March 31, 1998 and will be a discussion item prior to that time.
21 Motion carried unanimously.
22 Motion by Marks, second by Faust to approve the following claim:
23 D. Northwest Youth and Family Services in the amount of$2,500.00 for services rendered
24 in calendar year 1998.
25 Mayor Ranallo stated he would vote against this motion. He noted that the Police Department
26 has stated they are not receiving the services they should and that it would be more practical to
27 give the funds to ACTION which is an organization located in the City of St. Anthony.
28 Faust stated there are a lot of referrals to Northwest Youth and Family Services (NYFS) from the
school and the Police Department. It has been proven that the City benefits from this service and
the City of St. Anthony is paying a lower rate per capita than the neighboring cities. He noted
31 that ACTION does not perform any counseling.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
January 27, 1998
Page 3
1 Cavanaugh reported that he had been approached to serve on the NYFS Board.
2 Marks noted that he had served on the NYFS Board for a number of years. He explained that
3 ACTION is a program to keep youth from becoming involved in trouble, while NYFS is a
4 program to help children once they are in trouble. From the standpoint of youth, he stated both
5 programs are needed. Marks encouraged Cavanaugh to accept the position on the Board.
6 Thuesen stated he understood that NYFS was a good organization but would like to see exactly
7 what the $2,500 was paying for. He noted that if the program is helping youth in surrounding
8 communities, that is also a benefit to the City of St. Anthony.
9 Marks explained the NYFS program receives a lot of referrals from the school. The program
10 provides counseling, a youth diversion program, and an employment program. It services the
11 cities of St. Anthony,New Brighton, Shoreview, Arden Hills, Lauderdale, Falcon Heights and
12 Little Canada.
13 Ranallo agreed with these points but noted that when asked to provide the statistics of the
14 number of residents served in St. Anthony,NYFS was unable to do so. Police Chief Engstrom
15 has also noted that he has not been entirely pleased with the services received.
Q Faust noted NYFS hadrovided figures that indicated the services rendered to children in School
P g
17 District 282 exceeded the $2,500 figure by three to four times.
18 Ranallo noted that some of the children included in that statistic were not residents of St.
19 Anthony.
20 Vote on the motion. Cavanaugh, Faust, Marks, Thuesen voted aye. Ranallo voted nay.
21 Motion carried.
22 Motion by Marks, second by Cavanaugh to approve the following claim:
23 D. 6 pages of Verified Claims as presented by the Finance Director.
24 Cavanaugh questioned the purpose of Council discussion of the verified claims.
25 Mayor Ranallo explained that inclusion of the verified claims on the agenda allows
26 Councilmembers to see all the bills being paid by the City and ask any questions they may have
27 before the bills are paid.
Morrison explained the verified claims are inspected by each department, approved by the
is Finance Director and the City Manager and then submitted for Council approval.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
• January 27, 1998
Page 4
1 Motion carried unanimously.
2 VII. REPORTS.
3 A. Planning Commission - January 20. 1998.
4 1. Tony Farald; for Smart Stop, 3259 Stinson Boulevard, Request for a Sideyard
5 Setback Variance.
6 Planning Commissioner Jim Gondorchin was present to report on the issues addressed at the
7 January 20, 1998, Planning Commission Meeting.
8 Commissioner Gondorchin reported that Tony Farald, owner of the Conoco gas and convenience
9 store at 3259 Stinson Boulevard is requesting a six foot sideyard setback variance in order to put
10 a roof and door on an enclosure that is attached to the principal structure. This enclosure is
11 currently used to store recyclable items and milk crates but is outside and has been subject to
12 vandalism. The proposed change will eliminate a public health and safety hazard.
13 Commissioner Gondorchin reported that the proposal had been before the Commission
14 previously for a concept review and had been well received. The Planning Commission
15 recommended approval of the sideyard setback based on the following hardship:
1. The current structure is a legal non-conforming structure which was in place when the
City's Zoning Ordinance was codified in 1976 and that the imposition of that City
18 Ordinance restricted the ability of this grandfathered structure to make any adequate
19 improvements for the purpose of public health and safety;
20 2. It was indeed the City Ordinance that imposed the hardship; and
21 3. The property is unique in so far as the structure was already in place when the City
22 Ordinance went into effect.
23 Commissioner Gondorchin also noted that the proposal will not alter the character of the
24 neighborhood and is not based solely on economic considerations.
25 Marks asked if there was any verbiage in the City Code to address structures which were
26 grandfathered in.
27 Morrison stated it is generally the opinion of the City Attorney that once a structure is changed in
28 shape or form, it loses its grandfather status and is subject to current codes.
29 Motion by Thuesen, second by Faust to approve the six foot sideyard setback variance for the
30 property located at 3259 Stinson Boulevard based on the findings of the Planning Commission.
31 Motion carried unanimously.
0 2. . Alan Chazin, for 3301 Stinson Boulevard(old Clark Station); Request for Property
33 Subdivision.
r
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
• January 27, 1998
Page 5
1 Commissioner Gondorchin reported that Mr. Chazin, Alan Chazin Homes, Inc., is requesting a
2 subdivision of the property located at 3301 Stinson Boulevard (formerly the Clark gas station)to
3 construct four owner-occupied townhomes on the site. This is a welcome addition to the City of
4 St. Anthony on a corner which has been vacant for quite some time.
5 Commissioner Gondorchin reported this proposal had been before the Commission for concept
6 review prior to consideration. The applicant has indicated that the storm water will be retained
7 on the site. The City Attorney, in his letter dated January 19, 1998, noted that the lot coverage
8 must be below 50%. The Planning Commission asked Staff to confirm this number and included
9 compliance as a condition of approval.
10 Commissioner Gondorchin stated his concern with the proposal was emergency vehicle access to
11 the rear of the building. There was Commission discussion and the consensus was that as long as
12 there was front access, there was not an issue. City codes were checked during the meeting and
13 it was determined that there are no requirements of multiple entrances-exits for this type of
14 structure.
15 Commissioner Gondorchin reported residents present at the meeting expressed concern with
16 parking issues. There are four guest parking spaces on the site. The residents also questioned
the ownership of a small parcel of land to the east of this site. Mr. Chazin had attempted to
8 purchase this strip of land but the owner was not willing to sell the parcel.
19 The Planning Commission recommended approval of the subdivision based on the following:
20 1. It meets all the requirements of the City's Zoning Ordinance;
21 2. The project is well suited for the area; and
22 3. That this takes into consideration those points detailed in the City Attorney's letter dated
23 January 19, 1998; and,
24 Conditioned on:
25 1. Confirmation that the lot coverage issue is satisfied.
26 Cavanaugh asked if the Fire Department had approved the access to the building.
27 Commissioner Gondorchin stated he had requested that confirmation at the concept review but
28 he was not certain that approval had been obtained.
29 Cavanaugh noted that each unit required two parking spaces. He questioned how the required
30 amount of parking was determined.
•
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
January 27, 1998
Page 6
1 Commissioner Gondorchin stated there is a double garage with each unit and four additional
2 parking spaces are provided on-site. The parking provided meets the code requirements of the
3 City of St. Anthony for this structure.
4 Cavanaugh asked if the four spots would be designated as guest parking only.
5 Faust noted this is private property and that this designation would be difficult to control.
6 Thuesen stated he agreed that the four parking spaces should be designated for guest parking.
7 Mr. Chazin, Alan Chazin Homes, 5353 Wayzata Boulevard, noted that this is a townhome
8 project and an association will be formed. The association will own the four parking spaces,
9 which will be available for guest parking, as a group. The demands for parking on this site will
10 fluctuate just like any other site.
11 Morrison questioned the lot coverage on the site.
12 Mr. Chazin stated the site plan illustrates that the lot coverage is under 50%.
Mornson noted that approval this evening is of the preliminary plat. The final plat will be
4 considered at the February 10, 1998 Council meeting. At the October 28, 1997 HRA meeting,
15 the Council approved $30,000 in Tax Increment Financing assistance for the redevelopment of
16 this property. This will be addressed at the February 10, 1998 HRA meeting.
17 Thuesen asked if the error in the title described in City Attorney letter of January 19, 1998 had
18 been corrected. He also questioned the proposed landscaping of the site.
19 Mr. Chazin stated the landscape drawing will be submitted as part of the final plat approval.
20 Commissioner Gondorchin noted that at the Planning Commission meeting John Baker,
21 Architect, had stated that the total square footage of the lot is 16,500 square feet. The proposal
22 includes 8,246 of hard cover including all impervious surfaces, which is less than 50%.
23 Anthony Kaczor, 3008 33rd Avenue, stated he had spoken with Mr. Chazin this evening prior to
24 the Council meeting and informed him that the Comprehensive Plan includes installation of
25 sidewalks on Stinson Boulevard. Mr. Kaczor also noted there is a small "Welcome to St.
26 Anthony" sign near the proposed townhome which could possibly be incorporated with the larger
27 townhome sign. The City could possibly share the cost of the sign.
28 Motion by Faust, second by Thuesen to approve the preliminary plat- subdivision of the
property at 3301 Stinson Boulevard contingent on all.the issues of City Attorney's letter dated
January 19, 1998 being addressed and in compliance.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
• January 27, 1998
Page 7
1 Faust noted the City Attorney's letter addressed all the issues raised by the Planning
2 Commission.
3 Cavanaugh suggested the motion include the requirement that the Fire Chief review the plan to
4 ensure there is adequate access for fire protection.
5 Faust accepted the amendment to the motion. Thuesen agreed to the amendment.
6 Motion carried unanimously.
7 3. Rose Fitzjerrells; for Autumn Woods Apartments, 2600 Kenzie Terrace; Request for a
8 Conditional Use Permit.
9 Commissioner Gondorchin reported that Rose Fitzjerrells, Manager of Autumn Woods, is
10 requesting a Conditional Use Permit to provide an on-site beauty salon for resident use. The
11 beauty salon will be located in a space which was dedicated to a whirlpool area that is not in use.
12 The residents have requested this on-site service.
13 Commissioner Gondorchin reported that after brief discussion the Planning Commission voted to
14 recommend approval of the Conditional Use Permit for a one-station beauty salon to be housed
iinside Autumn Woods subject to the following:
16 1. No exterior signage regarding the facility;
17 2. No advertising; and
18 3. The service be available only to residents of Autumn Woods.
19
20 Motion by Marks, second by Cavanaugh to approve a Conditional Use Permit for a one-station
21 beauty salon to be housed inside Autumn Woods Apartments, 2600 Kenzie Terrace, based on the
22 recommendations of the Planning Commission.
23
24 Motion carried unanimously.
25 B. Councilmembers.
26 Cavanaugh questioned the status of Village Fest.
27 Mayor Ranallo suggested that Cavanaugh call Steve Bartz or Bob Foster. He stated he could
28 help with the process if needed.
29 Cavanaugh noted that the large sign at the Stonehouse was only half lit. He also asked if
30 something could be done to clean up the rubbish containers on that site.
Cavanaugh questioned the status of the Volunteer Appreciation Dinner that was discussed at the
last Council work session.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
January 27, 1998
Page 8
1 Mayor Ranallo explained that for the last 10 to 15 years the City has hosted a dinner for all the
2 people who have volunteered. This has generally been held the last week in April.
3 Cavanaugh suggested that the event be held in the Community Center. He stated he would like
4 to see the City pursue this event as volunteers are a valuable asset and should be acknowledged.
5 Marks reported the Sister City Committee met on January 18, 1998. They are continuing
6 preparation for the visit of the Salo, Finland Band in April. The group will arrive on April 17
7 and depart on April 25. The Sister City Committee is in the process of developing a schedule
8 and will distribute it to Council as soon as itis completed. It is anticipated that there will be a
9 joint concert with the St. Anthony Orchestra on April 24 at the Community Center. Some of the
10 Finland guests will stay in hotels and others would prefer home stays. Some meals will also
11 need to be provided.
12 Thuesen reported his attendance at a Land Use Planning Workshop on January 24, 1998. He
13 found the workshop to be beneficial and helpful in clarifying items he had read in the draft
14 Comprehensive Plan.
15 Faust reported he had received a call from a resident in regard to new construction and concern
about the water flow. He stated he was certain that City Staff, the Building Inspector and the
7 contractor will alleviate any problems.
18 C. Mayor.
19 Mayor Ranallo reported his attendance at a meeting on January 15, 1998 which was also attended
20 by Councilmembers Faust, Thuesen, and Cavanaugh; City Manager; residents of St. Anthony;
21 Senator John Marty; Representative Mary Jo McGuire; the League of Minnesota Cities; the
22 Association of Metropolitan Municipalities; representatives of the Metropolitan Council, Senator
23 Wellstone, and Senator Vento; and Commissioner Stenglien. The attendees stated the meeting
24 was informative and thanked the City for having it. Senator Marty suggested he would like to
25 find another person to support him in getting funds for the City's flood-related activities. Marty
26 will keep the City informed as to when they will be required to testify before the legislature.
27 Thuesen stated he had left the meeting more optimistic than he had been when he arrived.
28 D. City Manager.
29 1. Letters to Homeowners.
30 Morrison reported letters were sent to five homeowners last week in regard to purchase of their
31 homes. A deadline of February 18, 1998 has been imposed for response to those letters.
32 2. Senator Marty's Update on Flood Legislation.
Mornson reported that subsequent to the meeting on January 15, 1998, a legislative strategy, in
4 regard to testifying before the legislature, has been put into place. Mornson explained he is the
35 main contact with Senator Marty's Office and will be responsible for calling the Mayor,
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
• January 27, 1998
Page 9
1 Councilmembers, the Association of Metropolitan Municipalities, and all units of local
2 government. Councilmembers Faust and Cavanaugh are responsible for contacting members of
3 the Storm Water Task Force and also encouraging them to contact other residents who are not on
4 the Task Force but may be willing to testify. Councilmembers Faust and Cavanaugh are also
5 responsible for contacting the County Commissioners.
6 Senator Marty has met with the legislators in St. Paul and Minneapolis, and possibly other cities
7 who may have received flood damage. As a result of that meeting, Senator Kelly will be
8 sponsoring a flood legislative bill which is currently being written. Copies will be distributed
9 upon completion of the document. In addition, the Ramsey County Commissioner has a lobbyist
10 and they adopt a legislative package every year which they amended at the Board meeting today
11 to include $4.5 million for the City of St. Anthony.
12 Mayor Ranallo expressed concern that Senator Kelly is from St. Paul. He also cautioned that the
13 monies not be dispersed on a per capita basis.
14 Cavanaugh suggested that City Staff discuss the matter with Warren Spannus of the Dorsey&
15 Whitney Law Firm and ask his opinion in regard to the bonding issue.
Ranallo suggested City Staff could talk with Jerry Gilligan of Dorsey & Whitney to see if Mr.
7 Spannus would be able to assist the City. He also noted that Vern Peterson, resident of St.
18 Anthony and previously the Executive Director of AMM, will assist the City if requested.
19 Mornson noted the City of St. Anthony was not pursuing the bonding bill. Rather, they were
20 pursuing the grant program which is available through the surplus.
21 Cavanaugh stated he still believed in the lobbyist approach. It is better to have someone on the
22 property working for the City.
23 3. WSB Meeting to Discuss Grant Programs and Other Flood Related Activities.
24 Mornson reported he and Public Works Director Jay Hartman will be meeting with WSB to
25 discuss the other programs recommended by the Storm Water Task Force. One topic of
26 discussion will be development of the Flood Proofing Grant Program. This will then be
27 presented to the Council in March with the goal of having the program in place by early spring.
28 The sump pump program and a plan to inform residents of the possible appearance of the area
29 where the five homes will be removed will also be discussed.
30 4. Comprehensive Plan Update.
31 Mornson reported City Staff is currently negotiating with the Metropolitan Council in regard to
32 the household transportation and waste water numbers included in the Comprehensive Plan. A
public hearing will be help in May followed by formal adoption of the Plan. He asked if the
404 Council would like a representative of BRW to provide a summary of the Plan prior to the public
35 hearing.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
• January 27, 1998
Page 10
1 There was Council consensus to ask BRW to provide a brief summary to the Council prior to the
2 public hearing.
3 5. Comprehensive Water Management Plan.
4 Mornson reported that WSB is in the process of reviewing feedback received from various State
5 organizations in regard to the Comprehensive Water Management Plan. A hearing is not
6 required prior to formal adoption of this Plan. Upon formal adoption, it will become part of the
7 Comprehensive Plan.
8 Cavanaugh requested that the a copy of the comments received be made available to the
9 Councilmembers.
10 6. Podium and Window of Doors Cost.
11 Mornson reported concern was expressed at the January Council work session that the Council
12 Chambers be made more friendly. Staff was directed at that work session to determine if the
13 inclusion of a podium and windows in the doors is feasible and to determine the costs. Mornson
14 reported the podium and the windows are feasible. A podium with wiring would cost
15 approximately $2,000. Half windows in the existing doors would cost $550 per set or$1,500 for
all 3. New doors all windows would cost $1,300 per set or$3,900.
166
17 Motion by Cavanaugh, second by Marks to approve purchase of the podium and half windows in
18 the existing four doors.
19 Mayor Ranallo verified that the new podium would be placed next to the current podium and that
20 the overhead could still be utilized. He expressed concern that windows in the doors would
21 allow a lot of noise and distraction into the Chambers.
22 Thuesen stated he was in support of the podium but was not certain he could justify the cost
23 involved of adding the windows to the doors.
24 Mayor Ranallo suggested that the Council approve the podium and try propping the door to the
25 Chambers open during meetings to determine if the noise level would be acceptable.
26 Cavanaugh stated the issue was about more than the money. The issue is to provide the residents
27 with a sense of ease, to let them know that the Council is here and is open. He noted that
28 Community Services would also like windows installed in their doors.
29 Thuesen stated he would like to see the Council become more inviting and more visible. He
30 hoped that citizen involvement would increase within the next three years. This is one positive
31 aspect of installing the windows.
0
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
January 27, 1998
Page I I
1 Mornson noted that windows were originally proposed for the Council Chambers when it was to
2 be located on the other side of the building. The Chambers was moved to this side for economic
3 reasons and the windows were canceled due to the close proximity to the gym.
4 Marks noted that most conference rooms he works in have windows and sound is not a problem.
5 He liked the idea of opening up the Chambers and recommended the Council vote in favor of
6 installation of the windows.
7 Faust noted that there are other areas of the building requesting installation of windows in the
8 doors. Staff has only investigated the cost of windows for the Chamber doors. He-suggested the
9 Council approve the podium and have Staff investigate the windows further.
10 Vote on the motion: Marks voted aye. Cavanaugh, Faust, Ranallo, and Thuesen vote nay.
11 Motion failed.
12 Motion by Cavanaugh, second by Marks to approve purchase of the podium in the amount of
13 $2,000 and direct Staff to investigate the feasibility and cost of installation of windows in the
14 doors to include consultation with Community Services.
"P5
Motion carried unanimously.
16 7. Ruth Mason Hired to Cable Cast Council Meetings Beginning February 10, 1998.
17 Mornson reported Ms. Mason has a lot of experience working with the North Suburban Cable
18 Commission. The Council will begin live broadcast in March of 1998. At that point the
19 meetings will no longer be audio taped. He noted the written minutes are the official document
20 of record.
21 8. Falcon Heights/Lauderdale Quarterly Police Meeting.
22 Mornson reported that he and Police Chief Engstrom will be meeting with the Falcon
23 Heights/Lauderdale Police Departments to begin to negotiate the next two year contract. This
24 item will be on the agenda of the February 3, 1998 Council work session.
25 9. Police Officer Vacancy.
26 Mornson reported the new Police Officer Brett Kernel, who was introduced at the January 13
27 Council meeting, has resigned.
28 10. Minneapolis Business Association- Officer of the Year Program.
29 Mornson reported the Minneapolis Business Association has named St. Anthony Police Officers
30 Jack Christman and Ron Leonard as Officers of the Year for their apprehension of three suspects
who were suspected of a killing on Highway I-94 last August. A dinner will be held in their
it honor on March 25, 1998 at Jack's Restaurant. Mornson asked Councilmembers to let him know
33 if they plan to attend.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
• January 27, 1998
Page 12
1 11. WEB Page and Flag- School.
2 Mornson reported the City has been working with the school over the past year and a contest was
3 held to develop a City of St. Anthony WEB page. The City offered $25 to the winning design
4 and the school also offered $25. The Council has not selected a winner. Mornson noted that one
5 year ago the school art department students designed a City flag and the winner was promised
6 $25. The Council has not yet selected a winner.
7 Cavanaugh reported he had met with John See and this issue had been discussed. Cavanaugh
8 recommended that the Council approve the third design in the packet for the WEB page.
9 Motion by Cavanaugh, second by Ranallo to approve the third design in the packet as the
10 winning design of the City WEB page.
11 Motion carried unanimously.
12 12. Computer Upgrade.
13 Mornson reported Staff has done an RPF for a computer consultant to perform an analysis of the
14 City's computer system. The lowest bid is from LDSI who is the consultant which is used by the
15 League of Minnesota Cities. This will be discussed at the February Council work session.
tMornson reported several Staff members will be attending a seminar on the Internet.
17 13. Park Equipment Bid for Parks Task Force and City Council.
18 Mornson reported he has instructed Public Works Director Jay Hartman to work with
19 Community Services Director Kathy Knapp to develop an RFP for park equipment to be located
20 in the small enclosed play area. This will be sent out for proposals and will hopefully be ready
21 by the March Council work session. This will first be submitted to the Parks Task Force and
22 they will then develop a proposal for Council consideration.
23 Mornson noted there has been some concern expressed in regard to the presentation made to the
24 Parks Task Force by WSB. WSB reported possible excavation of Emerald and Silver Point
25 Parks. Due to the amount of concern expressed, Mornson has asked WSB to run some models
26 showing possible design options.
27 Thuesen reported he has received calls from residents.
28 Marks explained that the presentation at the Parks Task Force meeting included the possibility of
29 excavation of two levels. The impression was that the day after a rain, the water would be down
30 and the field would be usable again. The real problem is that there is not much area for water
31 storage in the southwest quadrant of the City.
Cavanaugh noted WSB has included the property behind the Hunt's property in their proposal.
They are including other property beside park property.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
• January 27, 1998
Page 13
1 Mayor Rariallo suggested WSB should hold a joint meeting with the Parks and the Storm Water
2 Task Forces to familiarize Parks Task Force members with the dilemma of the storm water.
3 Thuesen stated he had attended the Parks Task Force meeting and left without feeling any great
4 concern. He noted that within a day or so, even in extreme cases,the water will drain out. Drain
5 tiles and pumps will be installed.
6 Marks stated one concern he had was lowering the parks by eight feet would provide a whole
7 different sense of park. He noted that the report in 1992 had suggested a much deeper hole and
8 that this is a way of joint utilization of the parks for water storage and park land. He noted the
9 same type of thing has been done in Columbia Heights.
10 Faust stated he was astounded by the idea of a 8 to 10 foot hole. He had never heard that figure
11 in the discussions.
12 Morrison stated he will get clarification on the issue at the Thursday meeting with WSB.
13 14. Employee Recognition Lunch.
14 Morrison reported the Employee Recognition Lunch will be held on March 12, 1998 to recognize
long-term employees. Ex-Councilmember Enrooth will receive a 15-year award and Mayor
qP6 Ranallo will receive a 20-year award. Councilmembers are invited to attend the lunch if their
17 schedule permits.
18 15. 33rd Avenue Project.
19 Morrison reported the bids for the 33rd Avenue Street Improvement Project will open on
20 February 12, 1998. The bids will be considered at the February 24, 1998 Council meeting.
21 Morrison reported the sidewalk policy for Minnesota State Aid roads has recently changed.
22 Sidewalks that exist on State Aid roads and are in need.of repair can be reconstructed at State
23 Aid cost.
24 16. Change of Policy Public Works.
25 Morrison reported the Public Works Department would like a change to be made over the next
26 two years. Currently, the City of St. Anthony performs the seal coating on City streets because
27 they have the equipment. The equipment they are using has become outdated,there are
28 Minnesota PCA and environmental rules that need to be met, and performing the service takes
29 away from other projects. The Public Works Department is proposing that within the next two
30 years seal coating of the streets be bid out.
31 Mayor Ranallo suggested Staff check with other cities in regard to their experience with hired
0 seal coating of the streets.
34 VIII. PUBLIC HEARINGS -None.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
• January 27, 1998
Page 14
1 IX. NEW BUSINESS.
2 A. Consider Proposal from BRW, Inc. for Park and Recreation Consulting Services.
3 Mornson explained this process was started in July of 1997 with the anticipation of a report by
4 January of 1998. This was an ambitious goal and Staff has asked BRW to submit a proposal for
5 continued services of up to another six months if needed.
6 Marks noted one of the problems was that the Task Force ran out of daylight in October.
7 Cavanaugh stated an extension of six months seemed to long. He suggested this issue was due
8 for closure.
9 Mornson noted that the Storm Water issues had slowed the progress of the Parks Task Force. He
10 stated closure was expected before June of 1998 even though the contract would be authorized
11 until then.
12 Thuesen noted the Parks Task Force is tentatively scheduled to make a presentation to the
13 Council on March 10, 1998.
14 Faust stated that the parks have been neglected for 30 years. He would hate to see the Council
act in haste and set an arbitrary time limit. He stated he did not serve on the Parks Task Force
6 but felt that the City owed the people who serve the respect of their opinion.
17 Motion by Marks, second by Thuesen to approve a contract for Park and Recreational Consulting
18 Services with BRW in an amount up to $3,000.
19 Motion carried unanimously.
20 B. Resolution 98-020, re: Participation in National Flood Insurance Prop-ram.
21 Motion by Faust, second by Marks to approve Resolution 98-020, regarding applying to
22 participate in the National Flood Insurance Program.
23 Mornson reported this issue has arisen because when the City submitted for the FEMA Grant
24 they were told they had to be part of the National Flood Insurance Program. He stated the City
25 will try to prevent being mapped because the City would then be designated as a flood zone.
26 Mayor Ranallo stated he had seen an advertisement by FEMA which stated that anyone could
27 qualify for flood insurance.
28 Mornson noted the information he had received said that the City may not have to be mapped.
29 Mornson noted there is $1.3 million available through FEMA. The City of St. Anthony is
requesting $700,000, the City of Minneapolis $300,000 and the City of St. Paul is requesting $5
0 million.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
• January 27, 1998
Page 15
1 Motion carried unanimously.
2 C. Resolution 98-021, re: Authorize Submittal of Metropolitan Council Loan Application.
3 Motion by Marks, second by Faust to approve Resolution 98-013, authorizing submittal of
4 Metropolitan Council Environmental Services Loan Application for an Infiltration/Inflow
5 Reduction Project.
6 Mornson reported the loan application will be for$40,000 to be used for inspection of sump
7 pumps. If the City certifies to the Metropolitan Council that is continues to enforce the program
8 over a five year period the loan is forgiven.
9 Motion carried unanimously.
10 D. Approval of Pay Equity Implementation Report.
11 Morrison reported this report is required by the Department of Employee Relations every three
12 years. The City has a sub-contract with a consultant through AMM who has confirmed that the
13 City is in compliance.
14 Motion by Marks, second by Faust to approve Resolution 98-022, approving Pay Equity
0 Implementation Report.
16 Motion carried unanimously.
17 X. UNFINISHED BUSINESS.
18 A. Ordinance 1998-001, re: Storm Water Facility Rates ( 2nd Reading_).
19 Stan Nelson, 3504 Maplewood Drive, stated there are three things which bother him about this
20 Ordinance. The first is that this is a large "tax" fee and should have a well-defined program in
21 place before it is implemented. The second is that the tax is open ended. This substantial open
22 ended increase tells other agencies such as the State of Minnesota and FEMA, that the residents
23 of the City of St. Anthony can afford to fund the full cost of these improvements on their own.
24 Mr. Nelson recommended approval of a time limit on the ordinance which will automatically
25 reduce the fee to a level which provides money only to service storm water facilities. The third
26 item is that the ordinance is not specific as to what types of flooding proofing projects will be
27 considered with these funds. He suggested that a paragraph be added that states that
28 expenditures for flood proofing individual properties will not be considered reimbursable.
29 Mr.Nelson stated that the City Attorney has advised that offering flood proofing services is
30 unwise as it must be offered to all residents of the City, it must be in the best interest of the City
31 as a whole, and it would require the development of complex rules.
Morrison stated that the letter from the City Attorney which states that this is unwise is in
response to an individual request for direct assistance for damage from the July 1 storm event or
34 for repair of the damage. The City Attorney further went on to state that providing a grant
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
• January 27, 1998
Page 16
1 program for flood proofing could be done if it is done for the entire community and it is shown
2 that it will benefit the entire community.
3 Mr. Nelson suggested the City should not have such a complicated program. The City's role
4 should stick strictly with repairs to the street, holding ponds, and infrastructure.
5 Roy Genaw, 3404 Roosevelt Street NE, stated he felt the increase in the Storm Water Utility Fee
6 should be based on a square footage basis. He questioned the proposed increase to commercial
7 properties of 2.5%. He objected to paying the increase in the fee.
8 Cavanaugh stated there was an inequity in the fee when it was $3 per quarter. When the original
9 ordinance was passed it was.decided that it should be a flat fee per lot due to the complexity of
10 determining the fee on a square foot basis.
11 Mayor Ranallo stated he agreed with Mr. Genaw. He objected to a person with a lower value
12 home paying the same fee as a resident with a higher valued home.
13 Mr. Genaw stated he agreed that Mayor Ranallo objected but not on the same basis.
Cavanaugh stated the issue was complex. He stated he owns a large lot but his lot holds the
4k water rather than contributing to the run off situation. He stated the City does have a specific
16 plan provided by WSB. The flood proofing will only be provided to residents who can
17 demonstrate they are receiving public water.
18 Faust noted that an increase in the Fee to $52 per year will only pay for 25% of the costs of the
19 improvements. This will demonstrate however, that St. Anthony is willing to shoulder their
20 share of the cost. The City of St. Anthony does not know how the improvements will be funded
21 if they do not receive funds from other sources. The proposed package has been developed with
22 outside experts and forces and the City feels that it is a good plan.
23 Mr. Nelson stated the ordinance should contain a cap after 15 years.
24 Faust stated this ordinance does include a natural sunset. There is a certain trust and confidence
25 in the elected officials and electorate that the Council will spend their money wisely. The
26 ordinance needs to be left open ended so that future Councils are able to make their own
27 decisions. He stated there are too many variables involved to calculate the Storm Water Utility
28 Fee on a square foot basis. The option has been discussed by the Storm Water Task Force and is
29 not feasible.
30 Thuesen stated there are too many factors involved to determine the Storm Water Utility Fee on a
square footage basis. The Council bas no great pleasure in increasing the fee but needs to
increase the fee to show a good faith effort in order to obtain grant money. The Council will not
33 extend the increase any longer than they have to.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
• January 27, 1998
Page 17
1 Marks explained the City does perform a periodic review of rates in conjunction with the budget
2 process.
3 Motion by Cavanaugh, second by Faust to approve the 2nd reading of Ordinance 1998-001,
4 relating to storm water facility rates, amending Section 625.01 of the 1993 St. Anthony Code of
5 Ordinances.
6 Marks noted that the charge on the ordinance should be listed as "per year".
7
8 Voting ori the motion: Cavanaugh, Faust, Marks, Thuesen voted aye. Ranallo voted nay.
9 Motion carried.
10 B. Ordinance 1998-002, re: Sump Pumps ( 2nd Reading).
11 Mornson explained that after further review of other suburban ordinances on sump pumps, he
12 would recommend the Council select the date of December 31, 1999 rather than January 1, 1999
13 as the compliance date for the sump pump ordinance. The rational is as follows:
14 1. The City will not know if it obtained funding from the Metropolitan Council until April.
2. The engineering firm the City selects to conduct the inspections will give the City a better
6 rate over the winter months -November, 1998 to March, 1999.
17 3. Many of the suburbs spent the first year promoting the ordinance via cable, newsletters,
18 etc. Many of the property owners would start complying immediately, which would
19 reduce the number of people at the neighborhood meetings.
20 4. If the City tries to get it done this spring, I feel it may be too much stress on the Staff with
21 the home buy-out program, grant program, and other programs that may be implemented.
22 Mayor Ranallo noted that in January one-fourth of the population is away from the City. He also
23 noted the proposed changes will increase the sewer rate because more water will be going
24 through the system.
25 Mornson stated that one item the City of Plymouth used to promote the ordinance was that
26 residents would save money on their sewer bill. The ordinance will also help with the flooding
27 issue.
28 Cavanaugh stated that more than two years was an extraordinary amount of time. He questioned
29 if WSB could help Staff with some items to relieve some of the stress.
30 Mornson noted that the original schedule proposed public hearings to begin in March. 550
31 property owners will need to be noticed per meeting, and there may be up to 4 or 5 hearings.
0 Faust noted the main reason for the delay is the educational process of the public. This would
33 help to ensure compliance.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
• January 27, 1998
Page 18
1 Cavanaugh stated the ordinance was not contingent on receiving the $40,000 funding. He stated
2 the community has to see this with a sense of urgency. This is a festering, smelly issue that has
3 cost a lot of money. He encouraged Staff to find a means of assistance so the date for
4 compliance does not have to be changed.
5 Mornson proposed that the Ordinance be changed as follows: Under(c ) add: unless inspected
6 prior to that date and then they have 45 days to disconnection, and under(e)Properties which fail
7 during the first inspection shall be reinspected within 45 days to allow corrections to be
8 completed.
9 Motion by Faust, second by Thuesen to approve the 2nd reading of Ordinance 1998-002,
10 prohibiting discharges into the Sanitary Sewer System; amending Chapter 13, Section 1335.15,
11 Subd. 8, of the 1993 St. Anthony Code of Ordinances with the stated changes.
12 Motion carried unanimously.
13 XI. ADJOURNMENT.
14 Motion by Marks, second by Faust to adjourn the meeting at 9:21 P.M.
Motion carried unanimously.
16
17 Respectfully submitted,
18 Lorri Kopischke
19 TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
20
21 4ayyLor .
22 ATTEST:
23 City Clerk