HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC MINUTES 03231999 Meeting Sheet
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Box: 19
Folder: CC MINUTES AND AGENDAS 1999
Document: CC MINUTES 03231999
1 CITY OF ST. ANTHONY
2
0 REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
4 MARCH 23, 1999
5
6
7 I. CALL TO ORDER/PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE.
8 The meeting was called to order at 7:00 P.M. followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Zach
9 Malenick, Boy Scout Troop 93, as part of his Citizenship Award.
10
I 1 II. ROLL CALL.
12 Councilmembers present: Ranallo, Marks, Faust, Cavanaugh, and Thuesen.
13 Councilmembers absent: None.
14 Also present: City Manager Mike Mornson, City Attorney William Soth.
15
16
17 III. APPROVAL OF MARCH 23, 1999 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA.
18 Motion by Marks, second by Faust to approve the March 23, 1999 Regular City Council Meeting
19 Agenda as presented.
20
21 Motion carried unanimously.
22
23 City Manager Mike Mornson noted that a representative from the Knights of Columbus might be
in attendance to request the Council's permission for their Tootsie Roll sale which could be
is addressed under Licenses/Permits/Petitions.
26
27 IV. APPROVAL OF MARCH 9, 1999 REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES.
28 Motion by Marks, second by Thuesen to approve the March 9, 1999 Regular City Council
29 Meeting Minutes as presented.
30
31 Motion carried unanimously.
32
33 V. LICENSES/PERMITS/PETITIONS.
34 Motion by Marks, second by Cavanaugh to approve the following licenses:
35
36 General Contractors License:
37 D.J. Kranz Co., Inc., Mpls, MN/working at St. Anthony Health Care Center
38 Reliable Tree Service, Inc., Fridley, MN/Renewal
39
40 Cigarette License: (Renewal - Counter Sales)
41 Smart Shop, 3109 Edward Street
42 Stop-N-Go #4, 2400 - 37th Avenue NE
43
44 Vending Machine License: (Renewal)
SJN Inc. / St. Anthony Laundry at Apache Plaza
47 Service Station License: (Renewal)
City Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 1999
Page 2
1 Stop-N-Go#4, 2400 - 37th.Avenue NE
2 Freedom Valv Centers, Inc., 3810 Silver Lake Road
3 Smart Stop Superette, 3259 Stinson Boulevard
4
5 Garbage Haulers License: (Renewal)
6 Larry's Quality Sanitation, Ramsey, MN
7 Aspen Waste Systems, Inc., St. Paul, MN
8 Lightning Disposal Inc., So. St. Paul, MN
9
10 Bench License: (Renewal)
11 U.S. Bench Corporation, Mpls, MN
12
13 Motion carried unanimously.
14
15 Motion by Faust, second by Thuesen to approve the following licenses:
16
17 Retail 3.2 Beer License (Off-Sale
18 Gross Golf Course, 2201 St. Anthony Boulevard
Smart Stop Superette, 3259 Stinson Boulevard
20
21 Voting on the motion: Ranallo, Faust, Thuesen and Cavanaugh voted aye. Marks voted nay.
22
23 Motion carried.
24
25 VI. PRESENTATION OF CLAIMS.
26 Motion by Marks, second by Faust to approve the following claims:
27
28 A. Prosecutions/Legal Services:
29 1. Foster, Wentzell, Hedback& Brever, LLC in the amount of$3,000.00 for
30 professional services rendered.
31 2. Dorsey & Whitney, LLP in the amount of$600.70 for general legal services
32 rendered through January 31, 1999.
33 B. Storm Water/Flood Analysis:
34 1. WSB & Associates, Inc. in the amount of:
35 a: $5,509.50 for professional services rendered from February 1, 1999
36 through February 28, 1999 with regard to Silver Point Park& Central Park
37 storm water improvements construction.
38 b. $1,144.00 for professional services rendered from February 1, 1999
39 through February 28, 1999 with regard to DNR and FEMA grant
administration.
r 1
City Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 1999
Page 3
1
C. $1,000.00 for general professional services rendered from February 1,
2 1999 through February 28, 1999.
3 d. $2,270.00 for professional services rendered from February 1, 1999
4 through February 28, 1999 with regard to I/I Study.
5 e. $207.00 for professional services rendered from February 1, 1999 through
6 February 28, 1999 with regard to 1999 Flood Proofing Grant Program.
7 f. $621.00 for professional services rendered from February 1, 1999 through
8 February 28, 1999 with regard to Harding Street Public Involvement and
9 Preliminary Design.
10 g. $2,357.50 for professional services rendered from February 1, 1999
11 through February 28, 1999 with regard to Storm Water Feasibility Study.
12 C. 1999 Road Improvement Project:
13 1. WSB & Associates, Inc. for$1,462.00 for professional services rendered from
14 February 1, 1999 through February 28, 1999 with regard to 1999 street, utility and
15 stormwater improvement construction services.
16 D. Water Tower Park Project:
17 1. BRW, Inc. in the amount of$2,025.19 for professional services rendered from
18 January 9, 1999 through February 5, 1999 with regard to Central Park playground
field survey and park design.
20 E. 4 pages of Verified Claims as presented by the Finance Director.
21
22 Motion carried unanimously.
23
24 VII. REPORTS.
25 A. Carrie Luther, Hennepin County Appraiser, will present a review of April 6, 1999 Board
26 of Review.
27 Ranallo welcomed Hennepin County Appraiser Carrie Luther and invited her to address the
28 Council. Ms. Luther presented a review of the Board of Review for April 6, 1999, including
29 1998 property sales within the City. She stated the County inspects one quarter of all properties
30 within the City, and this review focused on the east side of Silver Lake Road north of 33rd
31 Avenue.
32
33 Ms. Luther stated that the City's overall increase in property value was 8.1% in the 1999
34 assessment, including condo sales at Kensington Terrace and the sale of 3 duplexes within the
35 City, an area which has not seen much market development in recent years. Ms. Luther added
36 that this review before the Council was in preparation for the Board of Review on April 6, 1999.
37
38 B. Parks Commission Meeting Report-March 8, 1999.
39 Ranallo welcomed Parks Commission Chair Carol Jindra and Bob Kost, BRW Inc., and invited
them to address the Council. Ms. Jindra stated she is happy to represent the Parks Commission
in presenting final design and site plans for the Central Park play area to the Council. She
City Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 1999
• Page 4
1 reviewed the site plan and location of the play area which is along 33rd Avenue and adjacent to
2 the tennis courts. She stated the play area's main entry will be through a decorative metal arch
3 on 33rd Avenue, and a decorative fence and concrete sidewalk will run the perimeter of the play
4 area. She added that there are 2 other entrances to the play area, and the play structures are
5 intended for multi-age use.
6
7 Ms. Jindra stated that only 2 trees will be sacrificed, and park benches,picnic tables and play
8 tables will be incorporated within the play area. She added a half basketball court is included in
9 the plan,and that while two half basketball courts had been discussed, this was not possible due
10 to grading. She stated the Commission hopes to include a full court somewhere else in the
11 overall plans for Central Park.
12
13 Ms. Jindra stated that an outdoor restroom facility and water fountain would be located near the
14 water treatment plant. She added the Commission has attempted to give the park a sophisticated
15 look which fits into the neighborhood rather than just a large play structure. She stated that the
16 landscape architects have been extremely helpful and supportive in planning the play area with _
17 the Commission. She expressed the Commission's pride in presenting the site plan.
18
0 Cavanaugh asked whether the Commission has planned a lighting scheme for the play area.
20 Jindra stated lighting issues will be addressed in the overall plan for Central Park. She added
21 that the lights at the tennis courts are very bright, and since the area is a youth play area it is
22 hoped that it will not be in use after dark. She reiterated that lighting for the play area is not
23 included in this plan.
24
25 Cavanaugh stated it might be prudent to embed the wiring for lights while the area is dug up.
26 Jindra stated the Commission was committed to staying under a certain figure in terms of cost,
27 and if a lighting scheme could have been included in this phase of planning they would certainly
28 have supported it. Cavanaugh stated he would support it as well.
29
30 Cavanaugh asked whether public phone capability was planned for the play area. Ms. Jindra
31 stated that no phones were planned, but the overall plan for Central Park will include a
32 concession area with public phones. Cavanaugh stated it is a safety issue as not everyone has
33 cell phones.
34
35 Cavanaugh asked whether regular restroom facilities could be included rather than portable units.
36 Ms. Jindra stated that this was a cost issue and the concession area will have indoor plumbing.
37 Faust stated the Parks Task Force had discussed issues such as aesthetics, damage and safety,
38 adding this is a larger issue which was not a charge for the Commission.
39
Bob Kost, BRW, Inc., stated the restroom facility presents issues related to maintenance and
0 security enforcement as it relates to public health and safety. He added that other communities,
City Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 1999
Page 5
1 such as Minneapolis and St. Paul, do not install regular restrooms at their park sites, but typically
2 use satellites with decorative enclosures. He stated they are tamper proof, durable and
3 replaceable, and always accessible.
4
5 Faust asked for clarification with regard to the abandonment of a second half basketball court.
6 Mr. Kost stated that problems had arisen related to grading and removal of trees. He added there
7 is physical space to install a second half court, but this would require additional retaining walls
8 and the loss of mature trees. He stated that it was necessary for the Parks Commission to
9 evaluate what would best for the overall park planning.
10
11 Marks asked whether there would be benches along the trails for walkers. Mr. Kost stated there
12 are several benches and litter receptacles along the trail as well as circular benches around trees
13 and at the half basketball court.
14
15 Ranallo stated that in the City's parks where regular restrooms facilities are located, they are only
16 open when someone is in attendance. He added there has been a large amount of vandalism in
17 the restrooms at the community center, where there is someone always close by. Ms. Jindra
18 stated that the restroom unit will have a water fountain and faucet for hand washing.
20 Motion b Marks, second b Thuesen to approve additional payment to BRW in the
Y Y PP p Y Inc.,
21 amount of$14,890.00 for additional design, drafting and project management fees as well as
22 construction observation.
23
24 Motion carried unanimously.
25
26 C. Planning Commission Meeting Report- March 16, 1999.
27 Ranallo welcomed Planning Commissioner Anthony Kaczor and invited him to address the
28 Council. Mr. Kaczor reviewed the Commission's March 16, 1999 meeting at which a sideyard
29 setback variance request for Roger's St. Anthony Mobil was discussed in detail. He stated that a
30 letter in support of the request had been received from a neighborhood resident and no opposition
31 was expressed. He added that the Commission recommends the Council's approval of this
32 variance.
33
34 Marks asked whether a hardship could be determined. Kaczor stated the unusual shape of the
35 property makes it difficult to enclose storage items and maintain the aesthetics of the residential
36 neighborhood in which the property is located.
37
38 Thuesen stated he lives in the neighborhood surrounding the property in question, and added that
39 neighbors have always supported the owner and speak positively of the quality of work which
0 has been done in the past.
City Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 1999
• Page 6
1 Motion by Marks, second by Cavanaugh to approve petition for variance for a 10-foot sideyard
2 variance request for Roger's St. Anthony Mobil Station, 2801 Kenzie Terrace.
3
4 Motion carried unanimously.
5
6 Mr. Kaczor stated the Planning Commission had discussed a concept review for Sunset
7 Memorial Park with regard to a sidewalk in a setback which would be presented for public
8 hearing at the Commission's April 20, 1999 meeting.
9
10 Mr. Kaczor stated the Central Park play area plans had been presented by a Parks Commission
11 representative, and the Planning Commission discussed the issue of parking along 33rd Avenue
12 would can be problematic due to inconsistent regulations along that street.
13
14 Mr. Kaczor stated the Commission had discussed the potential sale of St. Anthony Shopping
15 Center, and some residents had expressed concern with regard to water issues.
16
17 Mr. Kaczor stated that Planning Commissioner Gondorchin resigned due to work conflicts.
18 Ranallo stated the City would advertise for a new commissioner as soon as possible. He thanked
0 Mr. Kaczor for his report.
20
21 VIII. PUBLIC HEARINGS - None.
22
23 IX. NEW BUSINESS.
24 A. Resolution 99-025,re: Authorize preparation of preliminary plans relating to flood
25 mitigation.
26 Ranallo reviewed a history of storm water problems which have existed in the City for many
27 years, including the hiring of Barr Engineering in 1991 to provide recommendations; the
28 establishment of the storm water fund in 1992; and the appointment of the storm water task force
29 in 1997 to study the problem and arrive at solutions. He stated that 13 problem flooding areas
30 were established in the City, and 5 focus issues were determined: the establishment of a flood
31 program; securing of grant funds; the improvement of storm drainage; the revision of storm
32 water utility fees; and the increase of utility fees.
33
34 Ranallo stated that the storm water task force recommended the construction of an overflow
35 basin in Silver Point Park, as well as the provision of flood protection to other homes in District
36 6 which would entail the proposed construction of an overflow basin in the rear yard areas of
37 homes on Harding Street and Silver Lake Road between 30th and 31 st Avenues. He added that
38 $2 million-in state funding has been obtained for storm water solutions with the help of Senator
39 Marty, Representative McGuire and Commissioner Stenglein.
City Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 1999
• Page 7
1 Ranallo stated that WSB, Inc., has identified 10 alternative areas for the overflow basin, and
2 invited Todd Hubmer, WSB, Inc., to review them. Mr. Hubmer reviewed the alternative areas
3 and presented overhead views of the affected areas: 1) Town& Country and Northgate; 2) 27th
4 Avenue and Pahl Avenue; 3) railroad parcel south of the City; 4) Harding Street (purchase
5 easements); 5) Harding Street(purchase homes); 6)triangle parcel at Kenzie Terrace; 7) SAV
6 Liquors, Fire Station and Stonehouse; 8) south of Silver Point Park (purchase of 4 homes); 9)
7 Silver Point Park to Trillium Park(purchase easements and homes); and 10) Silver Point Park to
8 Trillium Park (purchase homes only).
9
.10 Kelly Everhart, 3026 Silver Lake Road, asked for confirmation that the excavation in Silver
11 Point Park will not solve the City's flooding problems. Mr. Hubmer confirmed that the basin in
12 Silver Point Park will provide 22 acre feet of flood protection, and the City requires a total of 55
13 acre feet. Ms. Everhart stated that the decision the Council was about to make has torn the
14 community apart and pitted neighbor against neighbor, adding that she is saddened by this
15 division.
16
17 Ms. Everhart stated that she is affected by options 4 and 5, adding she is upset that the
18 government wants to take away her land. She suggested that the City is attempting to complete
the project cheaply, and an independent engineering firm should be hired to find the best, but not
20 the cheapest, solution.
21
22 Rich Miller, 2717 - 30th Avenue, stated he is a Harding neighborhood resident, and the Council
23 should slow the pace of the project down to make time to find other solutions. He added the
24 Council will be seizing private property against the will of its owners and destroying their
25 homes.
26
27 Mr. Miller stated that engineers can make mistakes, and cited as an example the faulty ceiling
28 tiles discovered recently at the community center. He added the impact of the flood water
29 improvements will be far greater than ceiling tiles. He reiterated his desire that the Council slow
30 down the decision and attempt to find additional tax dollars to solve the problem. He stated that
31 the Council's legacy will be the destruction of the Village and gutting of the community.
32
33 Mike Jacobs, 2914 - 29th Avenue, stated that slowing down is not an option. He added that he is
34 affected continually by flood water problems which the City is close to solving. He stated that
35 the City should not spend more money on an independent engineering study, and urged the
36 Council to move forward with its decision.
37
38 Emmett Swanson, 3020 Silver Lake Road, stated he is a Harding neighborhood resident, and the
39 Council is proposing to steal his property against his will. He cited a Golden Valley City
49 Council meeting at which a similar vote was taken, and an elderly resident had a stroke at the
City Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 1999
• Page 8
1 meeting, adding the Harding residents are under similar stress. He stated the last 10 months have
2 been very difficult, and requested that the Council look at alternative solutions.
3
4 Sue Arntzen, 2800 - 30th Avenue, stated she has been a resident of the City for 5 years, and has
5 been impressed with her neighborhood and the passion of its residents who have come together
6 to work for a common cause. She added that the Harding residents have concern for the water
7 problems of other areas of the City, but are asking that the Council look for a better solution.
8 She stated that she has put her house on the market and is leaving the City over this issue, and
9 many other young families may be lost as well.
10
11 Jeff Wenker, 2813 - 30th Avenue, asked what other holding pond areas were identified in the
12 Barr study. Ranallo stated that the Barr study had recommended the complete removal of Silver
13 Point Park and Trillium Park. Mr. Wenker asked what acre feet that solution would have
14 provided. Mr. Hubmer stated he did not have the accurate figure. Mr. Wenker stated he believes
15 there are other options and alternatives.
16
17 Mr. Wenker stated that of the 12 properties proposed for destruction, 4 are owned by widows,
18 and one recently lost her husband who had fought in 2 world wars. He added the Council will be
0 taking away these residents' most valuable possession. He stated that his wife has been in touch
20 with an engineer who believes that the plans are extreme, and the City is being cheap. He urged
21 the Council to look for alternative solutions.
22
23 Florence Iverson, 2812 Highway 8, stated she has been under great stress with the excavation at
24 Silver Point Park, and urged the Council not to take her home.
25
26 Bruce Troupe, 2829 - 30th Avenue NE, stated that it is tragedy that some residents are
27 continually flooded, but the City has done the wrong thing for over 40 years and it's time for a
28 change. He stated the Council's legacy will be the destruction of a neighborhood, and there is no
29 guarantee of 100 year flood protection. He stated he hopes the Council does the right thing,
30 although he is sure they will not.
31
32 Gene Loida, 2809 - 30th Avenue NE, stated his family will be forced out of their home, and there
33 is no guarantee in this plan. He added he hopes the Council will think of other options and keep
34 the community together.
35
36 Jim Kimbllin stated that personal property should not be taken and homeowners should not be
37 displaced. He added some homeowners have been displaced already, as they can not stay in their
38 homes during the excavation at Silver Point Park while work is in progress. He stated that if
39 homeowners' property is taken, it should be on a minimal basis, and the holding pond.should be
aesthetically pleasing.
City Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 1999
• Page 9
1 After public testimony was complete, Mayor Ranallo asked for Council comments.
2
3 Marks stated that the flooding problems have been under discussion for over a decade, and the
4 issue must be resolved.
5
6 Marks stated that the Harding property in question, which is unused land, is the most
7 ecologically productive land in the City. He added it is unique area, and if it will be used as a
8 holding pond, it must be designed in such a way that the impact is minimized. He expressed the
9 Council's wish that another solution were available.
10
11 Faust stated that this decision has been a difficult one in which community has been involved
12 through the task force, and it was never the Council's intention to pit neighbor against neighbor.
13 He added that he came away from the task force committed to 100 year flood protection for the
14 entire City and has maintained that position throughout this debate.
15
16 Faust stated that the Council has slowed the process repeatedly to search for other solutions and
17 alternatives, but no one solution will satisfy everyone, and the City's residents as a group must
18 be accountable to and responsible for each other. He added that he, too, had served in the
• military and does not take the idea of taking private property lightly.
20
21 Thuesen stated that his philosophy since the beginning of his term on the Council has been to
22 listen, and listen some more, formulate an opinion and express his views. He added that an
23 important decision is needed with regard to the placement of a floodwater basin to bring the
24 community to 100 year flood protection. He expressed concern that if the issue is not resolved,
25 the community will pass this problem on to the next generation of residents. He stated that 100
26 year flood protection is the right.decision in the short and long-term interest of the community.
27
28 Thuesen stated that he has found it disturbing that recent Council meetings have become a
29 breeding ground for mistrust and discontentment. He added that accusations of the Council
30 being short-sighted, making up their minds long ago, and lacking in vision, and even that "money
31 under the table" was taking place, are totally false. He expressed concern that residents who
32 express these false accusations about the Council should bring facts and not opinions on beliefs
33 about issues involving his integrity and ethics.
34
35 Thuesen stated that the 4th option involving the Harding rear yard areas would change the
36 characteristics of a unique urban setting, create damage to the existing ecosystem, and entail an
37 emotional healing period for the residents of that neighborhood. He added that this option would
38 not require the destruction of homes or displacement of residents, and the 100 year flood
39 protection would nearly be met.
City Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 1999
. Page 10
l Thuesen stated that the options involving Silver Point Park would also create damage to the
2 existing ecosystem and potential aesthetic issues would need to be addressed. He added that
3 these options would require the destruction and displacement of 4-6 homes and families.
4
5 Thuesen stated there would be changes which would require emotional healing with both
6 options. He added after reviewing all the information, he believes the use of the Harding area is
7 the best option available to provide temporary storm water storage as no destruction of homes or
8 displacement of residents would be required. He stated that long-term ramifications and
9 obtrusiveness of the options available were important factors in making his decision.
10
I I Thuesen stated that the engineers involved have several landscaping options available to redefine
12 this location and maintain its desirability. He expressed his hope that all involved will strive to
13 achieve peaceful solutions using open and honest dialogue as the City attempts to achieve 100
14 year flood protection for its residents.
15
16 Cavanaugh asked whether it would be possible to make drainage connections between Silver
17 Point Park and Trillium Park to create a holding pond there without taking homes. Mr. Hubmer
18 stated that option had been reviewed early in the process, adding that Trillium Park is a very
0 narrow parcel and would only provide storage for 4-5 acre feet.
20
21 Cavanaugh stated he has wrestled continuously with this issue, and expressed his belief that the
22 option#4 concerning the Harding area will not work. He expressed his concern with regard to
23 the scale and scope of the project being proposed in the rear yard areas. He added that this
24 option should be abandoned.
25
26 Cavanaugh stated that he favors Silver Point Park as the long-term solution for the City's
27 flooding problems as it is public property and provides community access. He expressed his
28 support for option#8 affecting the area south of Silver Point Park.
29
30 Ranallo stated that the City has retained the 3 largest and most reputable engineering firms over
31 the past 12 years, and a decision must be made to provide 100 year flood protection. He added
32 that resident's property would not be stolen, and he is not concerned with his legacy for the City.
33 He expressed his belief that shelving the issue would be wrong, and would not solve the
34 problem.
35
36 Ranallo stated that the issue has been studied for 12 years and the decision being made was not
37 rushed. He added that a good,aesthetic project in the Harding area will be pursued, which he
38 believes is the City's only option. He expressed concern that if the project is halted, a storm
39 water-related catastrophe might occur_.
City Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 1999
. Page 11
1 Cavanaugh stated that sometimes well-intended thinking can get into a rut, and Silver Point Park
2 has the same characteristics as the Harding area with the exception that it is public land, and the
3 benefit that it has the potential for expansion. He added that it would be healthy to stop the
4 process and review alternatives.
5
6 Faust stated that all the proposals and alternatives have been reviewed and were not convincing.
7 Cavanaugh stated that time might change his views.
8
9 Motion by Marks, second by Faust to approve Resolution 99-025, relating to flood mitigation in
10 the City of St. Anthony, authorizing,WSB & Associates, Inc., to prepare preliminary plans, with
11 the addition to the resolution of Alternative No. 4.
12
13 Voting on the motion: Ranallo, Marks, Faust and Thuesen voted aye. Cavanaugh voted nay.
14
15 Motion carried.
16
17 B. Resolution 99-026, re: Authorize preparation of report on year 2000 street improvements.
18 Motion by Marks, second by Thuesen to approve Resolution 99-026, ordering the preparation of
0report on improvement.
20
21 Motion carried unanimously.
22
23 C. Discuss schedule for three Pahl Avenue properties.
24 Mornson stated that 2 of the 5 homes on Pahl Avenue have been purchased with FEMA funds,
25 for which the deadline of July 1999 is approaching. He added that the City will request a 6
26 month extension. He stated that the 1999 street improvement project will commence in May,
27 and the design and development of the retention ponds is tied into that project.
28
29 Mornson stated that the City is considering the retention of a land acquisition firm to assist with
30 the purchase of the remaining 3 homes on which there has been a stalemate for a year and a half.
31
32 Mr. Hubmer stated that grant moneys will be coming due on the expenditure date, and possibly
33 hiring a land acquisition firm to negotiate the sale of these homes might be a positive step. He
34 added that the Council's direction was required on this issue.
35
36 Marks questioned whether such an acquisition firm might seem heavy-handed. Mr. Hubmer
37 stated the firm would be authorized to operate on a willing seller-willing buyer basis only. He
38 added that the City has the option with the DNR funding to proceed to condemnation if the
39 Council desires.
49
City Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 1999
• Page 12
1 Faust stated the Council will need to move on this decision so the project can go forward. Mr.
2 Hubmer confirmed that even with the 6 month extension to be requested,they do need to
3 proceed.
4
5 Ranallo asked what the consequences would be if the homes were not purchased. Mr. Hubmer
6 stated the homes and adjacent properties would be subject to inundation.
7
8 Cavanaugh expressed his support of peaceful willing seller-willing buyer negotiations, adding he
9 does not support the authorization of condemnations. Thuesen agreed, and expressed his concern
10 that the Council's approval of the use of a land acquisition specialist does not constitute approval
11 of condemnation. Faust stated that the letter from Evergreen Land Services Co. implies that
12 condemnation is the next step in acquisition negotiation.
13
14 Mr. Hubmer stated that condemnation process would represent additional costs to the City as
15 FEMA funds would not be used in a condemnation setting. Mornson stated that a purchase
16 agreement would require Council approval. City Attorney William Soth stated that all decisions
17 would be brought back to the Council before action was taken, and condemnation would not
18 commence without Council approval.
20 Motion by Cavanaugh, second by Marks to authorize the retention of a land acquisition
21 specialist, Evergreen Land Services Co., to begin negotiations toward acquisition of the
22 properties on Pahl Avenue.
23
24 Motion carried unanimously.
25
26 Mr. Hubmer stated that discussions and preliminary plans for the 2nd water storage area would
27 begin soon, and would entail mustering neighborhood interaction. He added he anticipates 5
28 meetings with homeowners, the first of which would be to identify the process, answer questions
29 about the acquisitions, and discuss and evaluate alternative landscape options.
30
31 Marks expressed his concern that the large trees in the area are saved.
32
33 Mike Jacobs stated, in an unrelated matter, that he received a notice from the Police Department
34 regarding a level 2 sex offender in his neighborhood at 29th Avenue and Silver Lake Road. He
35 expressed concern as a parent that this is the 2nd such offender in the community. He added that
36 a public meeting had been held with regard to the 1 st sex offender, and asked whether a public
37 meeting would be held to raise awareness of the individual referenced in the notice he received.
38
39 Mr. Mornson stated that the new state law does not require a public meeting for a level 2 sex
offender, but that schools, organizations, businesses and neighbors would be notified. Mr.
City Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 1999
• Page 13
l Jacobs expressed his concern that the community should be notified of the sex offender's
2 location.
3
4 Ranallo asked whether a meeting regarding a level 2 offender would be legal. Mr. Soth stated he
5 was unsure but he could check that statute. Faust stated that the Police Department maintains a
6 record of all offenders' locations, and residents can call for that information.
7
8 Cavanaugh stated that a forum of some kind might be necessary as this is an important and
9 disturbing issue, and additional conversation is required.
10
11 X. COUNCIL & MANAGER REPORTS.
12 A. Councilmembers.
13 Faust reported on his attendance at the employee recognition luncheon on March 10, 1999, and
14 thanked all City employees for their efforts.
15
16 Faust reported on his attendance at the focus group for the League of Minnesota Cities on March
17 15, 1999. He added that the City benefits greatly from this group's services.
18
0 Faust reported on his attendance at recent Kiwanis luncheon, expressing his support of that
20 organization and their work within the community.
21
22 Marks reported on his attendance at a recent Sister City Organization committee meeting, at
23 which the Finnish folk dance group's upcoming visit schedule was discussed. He reviewed a
24 schedule of events for their visit to include home suppers in the community on June 16, 1999; a
25 June 17, 1999 performance in the State Capital rotunda; a community pot luck picnic on June 18,
26 1999; a performance on June 19, 1999 at the American Swedish Institute; and a performance on
27 June 20, 1999 at St. Anthony Main with the St. Anthony Orchestra. He stated that City Hall will
28 fly a Finnish flag during their visit.
29
30 Marks stated that residents interested in participating in the home suppers on June 16, 1999 and
31 the community pot luck picnic on June 18, 1999 should contact City Hall. He added that the
32 committee anticipates the arrival of Finnish teachers sometime this year in conjunction with the
33 teacher exchange.
34
35 B. City Manager.
36 Morrison reported, in response to requests regarding the atrium area in the community center,
37 that an audio system is being discussed, and one will be rented for the upcoming volunteer
38 dinner. He added that the planters will be moved from the hallway for functions.
39
Morrison stated that the City audit is progressing nicely, and an update will be presented to the
1 Council at its May worksession as well as trends for the general operating fund which is a goal
City Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 1999
• Page 14
1 for the City. He added that the issue of a financial capacity study, which was raised to Bob
2 Thistle of Springsted at the last Council meeting, will be discussed as well. He added that such a
3 study was completed in 1994 and he will have copies of that document for discussion and
4 decision.
5
6 Mornson stated that the Police and Fire Department Annual Reports for 1998 will be presented
7 by the Department Chiefs at the Council's April 13, 1999 meeting. He added that he will try to
8 have the new fire truck available for public display before that meeting. Ranallo requested that
9 the cable company be contacted for hook-up to the City's system so the fire truck can be shown
10 as part of the meeting broadcast.
11
12 Mornson stated that he would look into the possibility of discussing the City's policy on sex
13 offenders with the Police Chief at that meeting.
14
15 Mornson stated that he will attend the League of Minnesota Cities legislative update on Thursday
16 March 25, 1999 with Councilmembers Faust and Thuesen.
17
18 Mornson stated that the recent joint meeting with the Planning Commission raised concerns and
requests from the Commission regarding their role. He added that he and City Management -
20 Assistant Kim Moore-Sykes will meet with the Commission's chair to discuss these issues and
21 he would report back to the Council.
22
23 Mornson stated that a neighborhood meeting had taken place Tuesday, March 16, 1999 with
24 Richard Krier to discuss the redevelopment of St. Anthony Shopping Center which was attended
25 by about 30 residents. He added that the majority of residents expressed a desire to see the center
26 stay retail, and keep the fire station there.
27
28 Cavanaugh asked whether any more meetings were planned. Mornson stated the draft land use
29 plan, the first phase of the project, will be prepared and presented to the Planning Commission
30 for public hearing at their May 18, 1999 meeting. Cavanaugh stated it was his understanding
31 that residents who attended the March 16 meeting were believers, and it would be important to
32 attempt to include residents who don't use the center to obtain their opinions as well.
33
34 Mornson stated that the Salvation Army ad hoc committee, which was formed to review the
35 possible purchase of the Salvation Army property, held its first meeting recently, and is
36 recommending that the Council approve a letter to the Salvation Army conveying the City's
37 interest in the possible public purchase of the property. He added the letter seeks to obtain the
38 Salvation Army's approval of an appraisal and possible public offer.
39
•
City Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 1999
• Page 15
1 Mornson stated that City staff would request proposals from various appraisal companies. He
2 added the ad hoc committee wishes to organize a brainstorming session to discuss possible uses
3 for the property which would involve representatives from the City Council and School Board.
4
5 Mornson stated he had spoken with a representative of the Salvation Army who indicated that the
6 letter indicating possible sale of the property was not sent to the City as the Camp's committee
7 wanted to give non-profit organizations an advantage, although it was also indicated that the
8 owners will be seeking the highest bidder.
9
10 Mornson said the representative indicated that the property is not officially for sale, disagreeing
11 with a recent Bulletin headline, and no timetable for the sale has been set.
12
13 Motion by Faust, second by Thuesen to approve submission of a letter to Lt. Colonel E. Grindle,
14 Division Commander, Divisional Headquarters, Salvation Army, expressing the City's interest in .
15 the Salvation Army Camp property and requesting an appraisal.
16
17 Motion carried unanimously.
18
Cavanaugh suggested that a land use plan and environmental assessment might provide a more
20 accurate sense of the property's possible usage. Ranallo stated a land use plan could be
21 discussed after an appraisal is obtained.
22
23 Ranallo welcomed Commissioner Stenglein to the meeting and invited him to address the
24 Council. Stenglein expressed his appreciation of the Council's responses to concerned citizens
25 with regard to decisions made that night, and applauded Carol Jindra for her work on the Parks
26 Commission.
27
28 Stenglein expressed his hope that the City is on its way to solving its water problems, of which
29 he is well aware as he grew up in the City and 43 years ago on Pahl Avenue. He stated the
30 County is doing well and on its way to a good year. He stated its large budget includes plans for
31 a new public safety facility which is being budgeted at$100 million.
32
33 Stenglein stated a recent issue up for debate in the County is its rule on the ambulance paramedic
34 rate,which currently supports 2 paramedics per ambulance. He added he does not foresee a
35 change in that rule. Ranallo thanked Stenglein for his attendance and comments.
36
37 Ranallo asked for a VillageFest update from the committee chairperson in the audience.
38 Cavanaugh stated the committee still needs a chairperson for the parade and silent auction.
39
XI. UNFINISHED BUSINESS -None.
1
City Council Meeting Minutes
March 23, 1999
• Page 16
1 XII. ADJOURNMENT.
2 Motion by Marks, second by Faust to adjourn the meeting at 9:43 P.M.
3
4 Motion carried unanimously.
5
6 Respectfully submitted,
7
8 -Mary Mullen
9 TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
10
11
12
13 Mayor
14
15
16
17 ATTEST:
:8 City Clerk _