HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC MINUTES 11142006I CITY OF ST. ANTHONY
2 CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
3 November 14, 2006
4
5 CALL TO ORDER.
6 Mayor Faust called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
7
8 PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE.
9 Mayor Faust invited the Council and audience to join him in the Pledge of Allegiance.
10
11 ROLL CALL.
12 Present: Mayor Faust; Councilmembers Gray, Horst, Stille, and Thuesen.
13 Absent: None.
14 Also Present: City Manager Mike Mornson and City Attorney Jay Lindgren.
15
16
17 CONSIDERATION, DISCUSSION, AND POSSIBLE ACTION ON ALL OF THE FOLLOWING
18 ITEMS.
19
20 I. APPROVAL OF NOVEMBER 14, 2006 CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA.
21 Motion by Councilmember Horst, seconded by Councilmember Gray, to approve the City
22 Council Meeting Agenda of November 14, 2006.
23
24 Motion carried unanimously.
25
26 I1. PROCLAMATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS.
27 None.
28
29 III. CONSENT AGENDA.
30 A. Approval of October 26, 2006 Council Meeting Minutes.
31 B. Consider Licenses and Permits.
32 C. Consider Payment of Claims.
33 D. Resolution 06 -081: Approving a Currency Exchange License for 3800 Silver Lake Road.
34
35 Motion by Councilmember Thuesen, seconded by Councilmember Stille, to approve the Consent
36 Agenda items.
37
38 Motion carried unanimously.
39
40 IV. PUBLIC HEARINGS.
41 None.
42
43 V. REPORTS FROM COMMISSION AND STAFF.
44
45 VI. GENERAL POLICY BUSINESS OF THE COUNCIL.
46 A. Update from Ramsey County Commissioner Jan Parker
47
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
November 14, 2006
Page 2
1 Ramsey County Commissioner Jan Parker approached the podium to present an update on
2 Ramsey County and discussed the informational and promotional materials, and a map in the
3 packets distributed among the Council.
4
5 Commissioner Parker stated Ramsey County received a AAA bond rating, of which it is very
6 proud of and takes very seriously. She explains the rating ensures the County receives good
7 interest rates on its loans. She stated that out of over 3400 counties in the nation, only 33
8 counties received this recognition.
9
10 Commissioner Parker reported in past the Ramsey County Library System had previously been
11 rated in the top ten in the nation and last year it moved up to the top five. She explained the
12 closest libraries to St. Anthony are in Arden Hills and Mounds View. She started last year the
13 Roseville library had the largest circulation in the state.
14
15 Commissioner Parker presented budget highlights for Ramsey County. She stated the County
16 continues to attempt to keep property taxes down. She reported the overall budget increase for
17 2007 is a two percent in expenditures and revenue, however, the tax increase is 5.5 percent due
18 to a decrease in federal funding. She reported a large cut was made to the human services area.
19 Commissioner Parker stated Ramsey County eliminated most of the human services functions
20 from the budget, cutting about $1.2 million, but had to increase taxes by $1.5 million to keep its
21 level of services.
22
23 Commissioner Parker reported a new 800 mega hertz radio system impacted the budget in 2006.
24 She stated she realized St. Anthony is not part of this system as they participate with Hennepin
25 County, however the two systems communicate with each other. She explained the
26 interoperability between Hennepin and Ramsey Counties is important. Commissioner Parker
27 explained the project cost Ramsey County about $36.5 million, with the city of Mounds View
28 being the first to come on line with other cities to follow. She stated Ramsey County built the
29 backbone of the system and subsidized the radios for the City at $2000 per radio, but the cities
30 would pay operating costs.
31
32 Commissioner Parker reported the entire city of St. Anthony, including residents in Hennepin
33 County, participated in the yard waste site. She explained the service is free for Ramsey County
34 residents and the City of St Anthony paid for those residents in Hennepin County to use the
35 services. She stated there had been a lot of participation by Hennepin County residents.
36
37 Commissioner Parker discussed the work Ramsey County has undertaken so as not to not be
38 caught unprepared regarding a pandemic flu epidemic. She stated Ramsey County Public Health
39 worked with cities throughout the County to make sure they are prepared. She invited the St.
40 Anthony City Council to participate in a tabletop exercise with the Ramsey County League of
41 Local Governments in the next year. She mentioned the Ramsey County Board took part in a
42 similar exercise and found ways to see where gaps might exist in the system.
43
44 Commissioner Parker mentioned the Ramsey County hazardous waste site. She stated the
45 County Board took action to encourage communities to come up with a uniform ordinance
46 regarding the clean up of meth.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
November 14, 2006
Page 3
2 Commissioner Parker displayed a map of the current Metro area transit corridor. She explained
3 Ramsey County has been involved in planning for light rail transit. She mentioned that several
4 years ago the state legislature authorized the County Boards of Commissioners to purchase a
5 band of railroad lines as they become def naked. She mentioned Ramsey purchased various
6 corridors. She pointed out the closest to St. Anthony is in the northeast diagonal identified on
7 the map which would run between Minneapolis and Roseville. She stated the plan is in the
8 Metropolitan Council planning process for the 20/20 transit system to become a bus way. She
9 mentioned the next one to be built in Ramsey County would be a light rail system for the Central
10 Corridor between Minneapolis and & St. Paul. Commissioner Parker stated Ramsey County has
11 received federal funding for this project. She mentioned the cities of St. Paul and Minneapolis
12 are very involved with the project.
13
14 Commissioner Parker reported Ramsey County received a $50 million grant to renovate the
15 Union Depot into a multi modal transit hub. She stated transportation methods such as Amtrak,
16 light rail, and buses would eventually come into the depot.
17
18 Commissioner Parker explained work on pedestrian traffic in Ramsey County is taking place
19 with a project called Active Living Ramsey County that looks at how the built environment
20 might be affecting people's ability or inability to get around either by bicycle or walking. She
21 explained the initiative started with the concern for pedestrian safety, the rising obesity rate, busy
22 roads, and getting around communities safely. She reported schools are cutting down on buses,
23 so Ramsey County sponsored a walkable communities event last spring that was well received.
24
25 Commissioner Parker reported a class from the University of Minnesota did a best practices
26 study in six Ramsey County communities. She explained the class generated ideas to use during
27 a comprehensive planning process to create a city more conducive to pedestrian and bicycle
28 traffic. She stated Ramsey County received a grant to hire a person to provide technical
29 assistance during the comprehensive planning process to build in pedestrian friendly
30 communities.
31
32 Commissioner Parker stated that as part of the Active Living project, the County Board funded a
33 matching grant program to build more benches in the community. She stated the goal is to build
34 1000 benches throughout the county. She explained findings indicate older people and those
35 with disabilities are more apt to walk if they have benches available where they could rest
36 periodically. Commissioner Parker invited all municipalities to submit proposals; the County
37 would then match funds for a series of benches in the community. She stated the project is
38 called Paths to Health. Commissioner Parker explained the benches would be within eyesight of
39 each other to encourage residents to walk more.
40
41 Mayor Faust shared that the walkable communities participation resulted in good news and bad
42 news. He mentioned St. Anthony did not receive the grant but the good news is a sidewalk
43 would still be constructed between 291" to 37h Avenues. He stated the Council would take the
44 comp plan opportunity to heart. He stated St. Anthony is wrapping up the comprehensive plan
45 with a focus on sidewalks, streetlights, bicycling and bike racks, but believes it is not too late to
46 add in benches as part of the plan.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
November 14, 2006
Page 4
2 Mayor Faust stated Ramsey County is accounts for about a third of the city geographically and
3 would soon grow to be about 40 percent of the population with the development of St. Anthony
4 Village. He stated the efforts of Ramsey County have been very helpful to St. Anthony.
6 Mayor Faust stated Ramsey County is ahead in pandemic preparation and planning and on way
7 ahead and working closely with the State of Minnesota on this project. He reported the Council
8 attended a Sheriff s pandemic preparation session in December 2005. He stated the Council has
9 a great deal of confidence and trust in Ramsey County on this matter.
10
11 Mayor Faust thanked Commissioner Parker for her help with the yard waste project. He stated
12 something that seemed so insignificant has garnered him more positive calls than anything he has
13 realized in the years he has been here.
14
15 Councilmember Thuesen asked Commissioner Parker what the library system task force adopted.
16
17 Commissioner Parker replied lots of public input was received. She stated she is the County
18 Board liaison to the Library Board and attends the meetings. She mentioned the Library Board is
19 looking at library services in the northern portion of the county that includes Arden Hills and
20 Mounds View. She stated there has been discussion on expanding the Arden Hills Library with
21 major renovation or rebuilding, as it requires extensive infrastructure renovation. She reported
22 no decision has been made but task force recommendations have been taken to heart.
23 Commissioner Parker explained one recommendation was to do a collaborative effort and build a
24 regional multi county library. She stated the consensus seems to be going towards a building a
25 new library in the TCAAP property further north of the current library. Commissioner Parker
26 reported a new library is being built in Maplewood and the next project would expand the
27 Roseville library.
28
29 Councilmember Thuesen stated he was on the Library Task Force and many thought the
30 collaborative efforts had lots of potential. He indicated he hopes the lines of communication
31 would remain open.
32
33 Commissioner Parker stated she would keep everyone informed.
34
35 Mayor Faust thanked Commissioner Parker for sharing the Ramsey County updates. He stated
36 St. Anthony is lucky in that it has two County Commissioners. He also thanked her assistant
37 Sara who has also been very helpful.
38
39 B. Resolution 06 -082; Joint Powers Agreement with Ramsey County for Use of Yard Waste
40 Site.
41
42 City Manager Morrison stated resolution 06 -082 would approve a joint powers agreement with
43 Ramsey County permitting residents of St. Anthony to enter into a five -year agreement with to
44 use the compost and yard waste facilities in New Brighten. He further explained the term of the
45 agreement would run from January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2011.
46
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
November 14, 2006
Page 5
1 City Manager Morrison explained that in 2005 representatives from Ramsey County met with
2 City officials to discuss the possibility of permitting Hennepin County residents to use the
3 compost and yard waste facility as there was none closer. He stated a pilot program was
4 established to determine the level of use and the facilities ability to take in the additional yard
5 waste. He reported that in September 2006, City Council directed Staff to approach Ramsey
6 County to discuss extending this program into a multi -year agreement. City Manager Morrison
7 reported the resolution would be presented to the Ramsey County Board on November 28, 2006
8 for approval.
9
10 Motion by Councilmember Gray, seconded by Councilmember Stille, to Approve Resolution 06-
11 082, a Resolution Approving the Joint Powers of Agreement with Ramsey County for Use of
12 Yard Waste Management Sites.
13
14 Motion carried unanimously
15
16 C. Resolution 06 -083; Fifth Amendment to the Redevelopment Agreement for Silver Lake
17 Village.
18
19 Ms. Stacie Kvilvang, Ehlers and Associates, explained resolution 06 -083 is the fifth amendment
20 to the redevelopment contract with Apache Redevelopment LLC for the Silver Lake Village
21 development area. She stated there are two sections to amend. Ms. Kvilvang indicated the first
22 is section 10.1 whereby the developer was to begin constriction of Phase 1B For Sale Housing
23 Development by July 1, 2006, the condominium buildings three and four. Ms. Kvilvang stated
24 the second is section 12.1 referring to the issuance of a TIF note in the amount of $3,432,758.
25
26 Ms. Kvilvang further explained section 10.1 in that construction of buildings three and four
27 was to commence by July of 2006. She reported the developer stated construction of building
28 two has been moving along in a timely manner and anticipates beginning construction of
29 building three in the summer of 2007 and building four by the summer of 2008. Ms. Kvilvang
30 stated the developer requested the dates of the original contract be amended to state construction
31 would commence by September 1, 2007 and September 1, 2008 respectively. She explained the
32 delay in construction of both buildings is only one year from the original projection as part of the
33 sizing of the TIF note. She explained that due to the increased value of the property than
34 originally projected, the one -year delay would not jeopardize or decrease the amount of the TIF
35 needed to satisfy the required pay -as- you -go TIF note.
36
37 Ms. Kvilvang stated relative to the TIF note in the amount of $3,432.758, the developer is
38 requesting the note be prorated accordingly between buildings three and four. She stated this
39 would give the developer a better chance to obtaining a better financing rate and would decrease
40 carrying costs to the project overall. She explained if the note were prorated, the rates would be
41 $1.7 and $1.8 million respectively.
42
43 Councilmember Stille asked if there is risk in splitting the note explaining the TIF was
44 designated to put certain infrastructures in place.
45
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
November 14, 2006
Page 6
Ms. Kvilvang replied there is no risk as there are specified qualified costs associated and a look
back clause would ensure all expenditures were valid.
4 Motion by Councilmember Stille, seconded by Councilmember Thuesen, to approve Resolution
5 06 -083, a Resolution Relating to a Fifth Amendment to a Redevelopment Agreement by and
6 among the City of St. Anthony, Minnesota, the Housing and Redevelopment Authority of the
7 City of St. Anthony, Minnesota, and Apache Redevelopment, LLC (the Developer), dated
8 December 19, 2003.
10 Motion carried unanimously.
11
12 D. Resolution 06 -084; Amendment to Assignment, Assumption, Easement, Park
13 Management, and Maintenance Agreement.
14
15 City Attorney Jay Lindgren explained the amendment dealt with a change to the maintenance
16 agreement that exists for the park area in Silver Lake Village. He explained the City entered into
17 a unique public /private partnership as a part of the development of that area. He further
18 explained the agreement is where an entity created by the developers owns the area and the
19 public has a right to use it through an easement and the development entity has the on -going
20 responsibility to maintain and ensure the area is included in the park. He stated that with the
21 addition of the Weather Man statue, the developer requests the City have responsibility for
22 maintenance of and the any liability caused by statue. He stated he and City Manager Momson
23 believe this is a reasonable request as the statue was added since the original maintenance
24 agreement was entered into.
25
26 Mayor Faust asked if this is just for the sculpture and not the band shell or the walking areas.
27
28 City Attorney Lindgren replied that was correct.
29
30 Motion by Councilmember Thuesen, seconded by Councilmember Gray, to approve Resolution
31 06 -984, a Resolution Relating to a First Amendment to an Assignment, Assumption, Easement,
32 Park Management, and Maintenance Agreement By and Between St. Anthony Retail
33 Development, LLC, Apache Park, LLC, the Housing and Redevelopment Authority of the City
34 of St. Anthony and the City of St. Anthony, Minnesota.
35
36 Councilmember Horst explained to add clarity to the statue; Sakari Peltola, a Finnish sculptor, as
37 part of Minnesota Rocks Stone Carving Symposium, created the sculpture. He described the
38 statue as a large whimsical and beautiful sculpture of a man carrying a briefcase looking at a
39 cloud. He reported as part of an agreement with the Public Arts St. Paul, the City sent workers to
40 a class to learn how to maintain the sculpture. He stated the City would be in the best position to
41 do the maintenance now and in future.
42
43 Mayor Faust thanked Councilmember Horst for illuminating Council and for the history of the
44 statue. He stated it is good to have the background so people know what is happening.
45
46 Motion carried unanimously.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
November 14, 2006
Page 7
2 E. Update on Issues with Silver Lake Village Project.
3
4 Ms. Stacie Kvilvang, Ehlers and Associates, employed a power point presentation to explain the
5 overall Silver Lake Village project to date and the upcoming improvements for the next year.
6 She began by pointing out the locations of the different buildings involved in the project in Silver
7 Lake Village including: Phase I For Sale Housing, Rental Housing, and the Commercial areas.
9 Ms. Kvilvang stated the commercial property was the first component completed. She explained
10 that as part of setting up the tax increment and agreement for financing, a look back provision is
11 conducted. She stated that during the look back an audit of expenses for qualified TIF costs is
12 conducted to make sure they were expended and any cost savings are issued back to the HRA
13 and the developer. She explained they looked at four categories: relocation of tenants in Apache
14 Plaza, Apache operating costs and loan carry costs and demolition.
15
16 Ms. Kvilvang stated Ehlers and Associates received the required documentation for review. She
17 reported the review is complete and savings were found. She explained where the savings were
18 realized in each category. She reported the total budget for the project was $1,443,400 with an
19 actual cost of $863,485 resulting in a savings of $579,915.
20
21 Ms. Kvilvang report the savings could be used based on the development for cost overruns in the
22 development. These cost overruns included curb, gutter, and the realignment of 39`h Avenue
23 totaling $150,000. She stated the second cost over run project was for the retaining wall behind
24 Wal -Mart and the rental building. Ms. Kvilvang explained $139,958 of the savings went to the
25 commercial developer and $139,958 was awarded to the HRA. She explained the developer
26 issued a check to the HRA for $139,958 retained a total of $439,957.
27
28 Ms. Kvilvang explained the net TIF revenue bond proceeds available was about $4,730,368
29 million. She stated the principle note amount was $2,554,583 and the interest paid out from
30 April 30, 2003 to July 31, 2006 was $329,336 with net TIF funds to the HRA amounting to
31 $1,855,449.
32
33 Ms. Kvilvang pointed out where the available TIF proceeds exist to date: commercial TIF
34 revenue bond proceeds in the amount of $1,855,449; the first half of 2006 TIF proceeds at
35 $137,958; developer payment to the HRA for commercial TIF savings at $139,958 for a total of
36 $2,133,362.
37
38 Ms. Kvilvang explained the available TIF proceeds was used for repayment of an inter fund loan
39 back to the HRA account in the amount of $288,733 and a payment to Silver Lake Homes for
40 $360,777 for public improvement costs that exceeded City revenues including roadways,
41 sidewalks, lighting, landscaping, and storm water ponding. Ms. Kvilvang stated net proceeds
42 available for the Foss Road Lift Station total $1,483,852.
43
44 Ms. Kvilvang stated 91 percent of the 261 rental housing units are occupied. She explained that
45 most of the vacancy is in the senior market rate units. Ms. Kvilvang displayed photos of the
46 lobby, the rental unit interior, the community building, and the home theater room.
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City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
November 14, 2006
Page 8
Ms. Kvilvang discussed the For Sale Condos and showed a marketing video. She explained
there would be 260 total stacked flats and condos in four buildings. She stated the prices for
these units range from $170,000 to $528,000 with an average sales price of $297,000. Ms.
Kvilvang reported construction of Phase 1 is 98 percent complete with 49 units sold in the fist
building and 22 sold in the second building.
Ms. Kvilvang reported Phase 1B construction of building three adjacent to 39"' Avenue, would
begin by the fall of 2007. She stated the construction of building four would begin by fall 2008.
Ms. Kvilvang showed photos of the exterior and the interior of the building.
Ms. Kvilvang discussed the Phase 2A patio homes currently under construction. She explained
these patio homes total 26 units of which 12 are sold to date. She stated the average sales price
is $280,000 and showed photos of the site and the construction process. She also showed a
computer - generated view of what the development would look like once completed.
Ms. Kvilvang reported upcoming approvals for 2007 coming before the Council include Phase
IA housing TIF revenue bond take -out financing. She explained this is similar to the commercial
take -out financing completed in 2006. Ms. Kvilvang explained this is to be completed by the
first quarter of 2007 and Ehlers and Associates is in the process of gathering information for the
look back.
Ms. Kvilvang explained a loan was obtained form Fanny May in the amount of $3,350,000, to
acquire land for the For Sale Condo Housing. She explained the loan repayment would be from
the sale of condos and a TIF from the revenue financing at the take -out portion. She stated
payoff of the majority of the loan from Phase IA is anticipated by August 2007. Ms. Kvilvang
reported an extension on the remaining portion of loan would be requested.
F. Developer's Updated on Silver Lake Village Project.
Mr. Len Pratt, Pratt Ordway, addressed the Council. He stated it has been a year of continued
progress in Silver Lake Village. He thanked the customers who purchased the homes from them.
Mr. Pratt stated one reason homes are purchase from Pratt- Ordway is because folks want to live
or have come back to St. Anthony. He stated the history of the community and the elected
officials keep St. Anthony safe and secure which makes his job easier in a challenging real estate
market.
Mr. Pratt explained the real estate market comes in cycles so he focuses on the fundamentals of
making their product presentable and employing a trained and enthusiastic sales team. He
pointed out they also help with selling homes using effective marketing plans. He stated homes
in St. Anthony have a good reputation and are sold to young families who become a part of the
ongoing cycle of St. Anthony. Mr. Pratt stated a selling point of St. Anthony is the right amounts
of services are located in walking distance. He pointed out Salo Park is located in the center of
the community and offers summer activities, the beautiful sculpture, and a gathering place for
citizens.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
November 14, 2006
Page 9
1 Mr. Pratt explained construction of the cottages has begun. He handed out packets of
2 information on the condos and the cottages pointing out materials on the availability list and a
3 newsletter. He stated ads are running on the story of what this area looks like. He explained
4 Pratt- Ordway advertised using local venues and events such as the Loft Condo Tours, the New
5 Home Show in January, and the Parade of Homes in February.
7 Mr. Pratt discussed the single level cottage homes targeting the aging community. He explained
8 these homes include an attached garage and door to the outside that offers an alternative to the
9 condominium living. He stated he always knew there would be a townhome element in the
10 concept plan, however, the plan evolved to match up with the buyer population by building
I 1 cottage homes.
12
13 Mr. Pratt expressed his gratitude for help he received from Ms. Kvilvang, City Attorney
14 Lindgren and City Manager Morrison.
15
16 Mr. Pratt informed Council and the community a Christmas tree lighting event would occur on
17 November 30`h
18
19 Mayor Faust stated it is heartening to hear about private and public entities working together. He
20 stated it takes cooperation to make things happen. He stated Pratt Ordway provided a first class
21 product and it seems like a lifetime ago but it has only been three and a half year since the
22 project started. Mayor Faust applauded Mr. Pratt's tenacity in a market that can change. He
23 stated Pratt Ordway is a first class builder and property buyers realize it.
24
25 G. Resolution 06 -085, Community Services Levy.
26
27 City Manager Morrison stated this is an agreement between the City of St. Anthony and St.
28 Anthony -New Brighton School District 282 for the operation of recreational programs. He
29 explained this would be a contract agreement commencing January 1, 2007 through December
30 31, 2008 in the amount of $52,175 paid to the City per year. City Manager Morrison stated this
31 would be years three and four of the contract.
32
33 City Manager Morrison explained the school district previously had the ability to levy for the
34 recreational funding. He explained the Legislature and the Governor in a property tax reform
35 took this away, so the school asked the City to help with a program that costs about $315,000 per
36 year.
37
38 City Manager Morrison explained Community Services would be responsible for the scheduling
39 and administration of the recreational program. He explained an advisory council would set the
40 direction of Community Services and a City Councilmember would serve as liaison to the
41 Advisory Council. He mentioned Councilmember Horst is the liaison.
42
43 Motion by Councilmember Gray, seconded by Councilmember Thuesen, to Approve Resolution
44 06 -085, a Resolution Relating to Community Services.
45
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
November 14, 2006
Page 10
1 Mayor Faust stated this is another example of cooperation between governmental organizations
2 and bodies. He stressed cooperation brings services to the people that need it. Mayor Faust
3 stated working together makes sure we get the biggest bang for buck. He expressed he feels the
4 school and City work well together.
5
6 Motion carried unanimously.
7
8 H. Resolution 06 -086: Central Park Improvements and the Funding Split for Said
9 Improvements.
10
11 City Manager Morrison stated this resolution is in continuing with the cooperative efforts with
12 the school district. He explained this resolution would approve the construction of three dugouts
13 at the Central Park ball fields one, two, and three. He clarified these fields are used for baseball,
14 softball, and soccer.
15
16 City Manager Mornson reported the estimated cost for the three dugouts is $25,580 with $12,790
17 coming from the City of St. Anthony and the rest from the school district. He stated Staff
18 proposes depositing $14,000 into the account to cover contingencies, however the City's cost
19 would not exceed 50 percent. He explained this was an issue brought up by the school at the last
20 joint School Board meeting. He further stated this is a resolution that needs to be approved as
21 the school plans to start construction this year in order to complete the dugouts by next season.
22
23 Mayor Faust asked City Manager Morrison to monitor the funds the City contributes to ensure
24 the split is 50 percent.
25
26 Motion by Councilmember Thuesen, seconded by Councilmember Stille, to approve Resolution
27 06 -086, a Resolution Approving the Central Park Improvements and the Funding Split of these
28 said Improvements Between the City of St. Anthony and St. Anthony -New Brighton School
29 District Number 282.
30
31 Councilmember Horst noted for the record his displeasure with paying more into a park that ran
32 more than $1.6 million dollars over the original cost, of which very little came from the school.
33 He stated the City is in a position of helping the school with construction costs for a project that
34 would benefit the school more than the City. He stated he is not in favor of the split.
35
36 Councilmember Stille elaborated on City Manager Mornson's presentation stating it was brought
37 up at last joint school board meeting. He explained the topic was also brought up last spring
38 where Troy Urdahl, Athletic Director, St. Anthony schools, presented it to the Parks Commission
39 and presented it at a joint meeting with the school board. He explained Mr. Urdahl also tried to
40 get other funding from other sources such as a grant from the Minnesota Twins, which did not
41 materialize. Councilmember Stille explained the majority of improvements would be made on
42 City property.
43
44 4 Ayes 1 Nav (Horst) Motion carried.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
November 14, 2006
Page 11
2 I. Ordinance 06 -005: Manufactured Home Park Ordinance. (Final Reading)
4 City Manager Morrison stated this is the third and final reading of Ordinance 06 -005. He
5 explained the purpose of the ordinance is to require park owners pay displaced residents
6 reasonable relocation costs and purchasers of manufactured home parks pay for alternative
7 compensation if the manufactured home could not be relocated, pursuant to the authority granted
8 to the City under Minnesota Statutes, Section 327C.095.
9
10 City Manager Morrison stated Staff feels this is a good ordinance. He remarked that since then
11 the City of Rosemount has also begun the process of a manufactured home park ordinance. He
12 stated Staff has received no comments since the beginning of the process.
13
14 Ms. Gwen Longtime, 2501 Lowry Avenue NE, on behalf of the residents of Lowry Grove,
15 thanked the Council, the Mayor, and City Manager Morrison for their support in obtaining a
16 manufactured home park- closing ordinance. She stated these individuals showed St. Anthony
17 officials care about the needs of their constituents and the residents of Lowery Park look forward
18 to working with them again. Ms. Longtime handed out letters of appreciation to each of the
19 Council members and City Manager Morrison. She thanked everyone who came out to show
20 support of the ordinance and the association's efforts including All Parks Alliance For Change
21 (APAC), Vital Aging Group, park residents, neighboring communities and their groups,
22 parishioners of St. Charles, St. Anthony High School volunteers, friends, and families.
23
24 Ms. Diane Nelson, on behalf of the Lowry Grove park owners, expressed their support for this
25 ordinance and thanked the Council, City Staff, and the residents of Lowry Grove Park.
26
27 Motion by Councilmember Stille, seconded by Councilmember Gray, to approve Ordinance
28 2006 -005, an Ordinance Amending Chapter Five of the City Code, Being the Licenses, Permits,
29 and Business Regulations.
30
31 Motion carried unanimously.
32
33 Mayor Faust stated they are not used to receiving letters of appreciation, but it shows the
34 kindness, sensitivity, and cooperation by park owners and residents of Lowery Grove Park. He
35 stressed this is an example of how the City works and works well and the civility brought to
36 proceedings is unparalled throughout the Metro area. He thanked the residents and owner for the
37 conduct and the professionalism displayed during this process.
38
39 1 Ordinance 06 -006, Electronic Gasoline Signs. (Second Reading)
40
41 City Manager Morrison reported this is the second reading of Ordinance 06 -006 Electronic
42 Gasoline Signs. He stated the first reading was approved on October 24, 2006 to go to a second
43 reading on a 3/2 vote.
44
45 City Manager Morrison stated the Planning Commission held a public hearing on October 17,
46 2006 and the Planning Commission Report was received at the last City Council Meeting. He
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
November 14, 2006
Page 12
1 explained Council had questions at the first reading and directed Staff to talk to surrounding
2 cities that allowed this type of signage and had changed their ordinance. He stated Staff spoke to
3 the cities of Shakopee, Coon Rapids, Columbia Heights, New Brighten, and Fridley. He stated
4 findings indicate the number one reason changes were made was for the convenience of the
5 business owner and secondly because it was neater in appearance.
7 Mr. Tom Archanbault, Mobile Station manager, stated discussion at the last City Council
8 revolved around whether this was for the convenience of the station or a safety issue. He
9 demonstrated why this is a safety issue with a sample of the sign number and the suction cup
10 used to change the numbers. He explained how changing the signs in the winter was difficult
11 because prices change on a daily bases. Mr. Archanbault described how the numbers are
12 currently changed and stressed this is a safety issue.
13
14 Motion by Councilmember Horst, seconded by Councilmember Thuesen, to Approve the Second
15 Reading of Ordinance 2006 -006 Amending the City Code Sign Regulation.
16
17 Mayor Faust stated he is against this and could not vote for it because he is not convinced and,
18 once it is approved, everyone would want the same electronic sign. He stated he worked hard
19 since 1997 to make sure St. Anthony did not look like many other communities. He stressed that
20 he did not want other businesses coming to the City Council for approval of electronic signs. He
21 stated he did not see gas stations as having a special place for electronic signs.
22
23 Councilmember Horst stated he did echo some of the thoughts Mr. Archanbault had. He asked
24 Council to imagine how difficult it is to change these signs in the winter. He stated this is one
25 way to get the gas stations in the Community up to speed, up to modern standards just as it is
26 important to have satellite dishes and electronic card readers on the pumps. He thanked Staff for
27 doing the study, and if Council read through this, they would see it is much neater in the areas
28 allowing electronic sign. He referenced a court case in Fridley that upheld the City's ability to
29 place stipulations on the signs, but not the message. He stated the City could be looking at a
30 legal issue. Councilmember Horst stated Council could easily pass this ordinance as the stations
31 in St. Anthony have been good participants and shown to be more than just dirty old gas stations
32 but working hard to fit in and be as attractive as possible. He expressed he sticks with this and
33 thinks Council should consider this very carefully.
34
35 Councilmember Gray stated he agreed with the Mayor in that once electronic signs are allowed,
36 it opens the door for all electronic signs. He stated it would be hard to differentiate between the
37 types of advertising signs for businesses. He stated there is one electronic sign in the city and it
38 is for public information.
39
40 Councilmember Horst responded the city stipulated what the sign could and could not do. He
41 stated this is a way to display the price of gas that is no more obnoxious than having the
42 numbers. He stressed he did not believe it would open the doors. He clarified the sign would
43 not flash or scroll. Councilmember Horst stated in the case of a gas station the price stays until it
44 changes and it changes daily. He stated he believes this is a serious issue with people who have
45 this type of business.
46
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
November 14, 2006
Page 13
1 Mayor Faust stated he learned that once a City starts cooping an ordinance a crack develops. He
2 stated this is not against any gas station or owner or how good a neighbor a station has been; the
3 validity of a business could not enter into the equation. Mayor Faust stated Council must decide
4 based on what is best for the community.
6 Councilmember Thuesen stated he voted yes the first time and would vote yes again. He
7 explained he recently traveled between Winona and the Twin Cities noticing electronic signs
8 along the way. He stated he believes electronic signs are much neater and more attractive and if
9 this were to pass, the wording could be made tight enough to allow only gas prices and no other
10 advertising. He stated for the final reading he would like to see a discussion on lighting color
11 and on the legal issues. Councilmember Thuesen stressed there is a difference between allowing
12 a gas station to advertise the price of gas and advertising food products at Wal -Mart.
13
14 Councilmember Stille stated he also voted yes last time to progress this issue forward. He
15 explained he also wanted more information and input and an opportunity to discuss it privately.
16 He stated he wanted to hear what Staff had to say and wanted to know if there were safety issues
17 in the other communities interviewed. Councilmember Stille reported he spent a great deal of
18 time making sure electronic signs would not be allowed along Silver Lake Road. He reiterated
19 signs have been important to the community for a long time. Councilmember Stille reported he
20 had not heard from any independent source that this is a safety issue. He stated he must make his
21 decision based on what is best for the community and at this time, he is not inclined to support
22 the change to the ordinance.
23
24 Councilmember Horst stated when he first moved to the Twin Cities, he lived in Maple Grove
25 where the most restrictive sign ordinances exits. He stated Planning Commissions and City
26 Councils go a bit nutsie when they start protecting the public's right to see certain things. He
27 stated Council must remember businesses are also an important part of the community. He
28 stressed this is not something that would make or break the community. He stated nobody would
29 be concerned with this. He stressed Council must be business friendly and the safety issue is real
30 for gas stations. He stressed this is more than a convenience and he is talking about gas stations
31 and not other businesses.
32
33 Mayor Faust commented he took exception to the statement about a business friendly community
34 and St. Anthony is business friendly. He sited Mr. Pratt and owners of Lowry Grove as
35 examples. He submitted that most people would like a city that looks more like Maple Grove
36 than Columbia Heights. He stated there is a level playing field, as St. Anthony does not capture
37 people coming off the interstate to purchase fuel. He stated the level playing field according to
38 the current ordinance in that all seven gas stations have the same requirements.
39
40 Mr. Roger Bona, 2801 Kenzie Terrace, stated in this day and age it is difficult to differentiate
41 between convenience and hardship in an age of mechanical, technological, electrical advantages,
42 be it farm implements or a laundromat. He stated the advances made in electric windows and
43 door locks in automobiles are safety and convenience issues. He stated it is difficult to separate
44 convenience from mechanical hardship. He stated relative to safety issue, he witnessed a young
45 man climbing up a mountain of snow to change the gas station signs; he fell and rolled into
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
November 14, 2006
Page 14
sidewalk. Mr. Bona stated he is not a proponent of signage but wants the City Council to be
proactive. He stated this ordinance would go decades into the future.
Councilmember Gray stated that if this reading passes, he would like Staff to research and find
out if there are regulations on height of the sign.
7 City Manager Mornson replied a 30 -foot pylon for gas stations is allowed in the City ordinance,
8 but the Council could change this, to which Councilmember Horst stated this is another example
9 where an ordinance is strictly for one type of business.
10
11 Ayes 2 (Horst, Thuesen) Nays 3 Motion failed.
12
13 Mayor Faust stated the ordinance fails, the readings cease, and the issue is dead. He stated he
14 appreciated the effort everyone put into this. He addressed Mr. Bona stating this is not aimed at
15 his company as he values him as a business, but there are specific concerns for the overall
16 commitment to the City.
17
18 VII. REPORTS FROM CITY MANAGER AND COUNCILMEMBERS.
19
20 City Manager Mornson reported the next Council meeting would be November 28, 2006 where
21 the agenda would include:
22 o City Engineer's updates from WSB as well as Jay Hartman, Public Works
23 Director
24 o The 2007 Street Project
25 o Water Filtration Improvement
26 o Water Resource Plan
27 o Update on Automatic Water Meters and the I & I Program
28
29 City Manager Mornson informed Council Mr. Bill Weber, planning consultant, would present
30 the Comprehensive Plan. He stated an open house was held on November 8, 2006 and the
31 Planning Commission would hold a public hearing on November 21, 2006. He indicated City
32 Council would receive the plan on November 28, 2006 where it would authorize Staff to submit
33 the plan to the Metropolitan Council and surrounding communities. He reported there is up to a
34 six -month review of the plan. He anticipates Staff would receive the go ahead to submit it to the
35 Met Council on or about June 1, 2007.
36
37 City Manager Mornson reported letters would go out to residents on November 17, 2006
38 explaining the Inflow & Infiltration Inspection Program as well as the Automatic Water Meter
39 Replacement Program. He stated a post card would go out about a month later to residents
40 explaining the inspection and the installation of the water meter. He mentioned residents would
41 be updated in the newsletter in January 2007. He stated he received a letter from the
42 Metropolitan Council approving the Cities I & I Plan. City Manager Mornson informed Council
43 the City has until March 2008 to resubmit a new plan.
44
45 City Manager Mornson reported Staff would hold a neighborhood meeting on November 16,
46 2006 on the 2007 Street Project and the Highcrest Sidewalk Project.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
November 14, 2006
Page 15
City Manager Mornson stated the Finance Staff would apply for a Government Finance Office
Award for Excellence in Government Office in 2007. It probably would not be accepted until
2008 because the Government has one year to determine if the award will be awarded.
6 City Manager Mornson reported that on April 28, 2007, the St. Anthony Police Department
7 would celebrate its 50th anniversary. He stated the Kiwanis would also hold a Safety Day with
8 Police, Fire, Public Works, and Community Services.
9
10 City Manager Momson mentioned that beginning January 1, 2007 Community Services Staff
11 would be responsible for reserving the multi - purpose room and gym. He stated the benefit
12 would is a one stop shopping for consumers to reserve space in any public area.
13
14 City Manager Mornson reported Staff attended the Transportation Meeting on November 13,
15 2006, on a transit for livable communities, explaining there is some funding from the Federal
16 Government for the City of Minneapolis and first ring suburbs. He mentioned Staff applied for
17 but did not receive funding for the sidewalks but are considering reapplying for the school
18 funding for the same sidewalk. He explained that if they do not get it, there is other funding such
19 as the Silver Lake Road Sidewalk and others and others opportunities to apply for funding.
20
21 City Manager Mornson stated Staff met with the Middle Mississippi Water Management
22 Organization (MWMO) to talk about providing funding for equipment, training, and monitoring.
23 He mentioned the City would host a sidewalk/parking lot snow removal seminar discussing how
24 to properly remove snow from parking lots and sidewalks.
25
26 Mayor Faust responded there is a certification for cleaning sidewalks and streets. He stated
27 people attending the training seminar would receive a certificate.
28
29 City Manager Morrison stated Chief John Ohl would be discussing additional police coverage
30 with the Lauderdale City Council on November 14, 2006. He stated Lauderdale is considering
31 adding police hours to their contract. City Manager Mornson indicated St. Anthony currently
32 provides 16 hours to Lauderdale and 24 to Falcon Heights.
33
34 City Manager Mornson reminded Council the deadline to apply for the openings on the Planning
35 and Park Commissions is November 17, 2006.
36
37 City Manager Mornson reported Council would be meeting with the City of Minneapolis and 15
38 suburbs on November 29, 2006. He stated the City of Minneapolis is hosting this meeting called
39 Reaching Across City Lines, Getting to Know Your Neighbor. He stated this is the first time the
40 City of Minneapolis has reached out to meet with suburbs and it should be a very interesting
41 meeting.
42
43 Mayor Faust asked City Manager Mornson if the approval of the City's I & I plan by the
44 Metropolitan Council meant the City did not have to pay the fees assessed.
45
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
November 14, 2006
Page 16
1 City Manager Morrison replied correct; the City has until March 2008 to submit the results of the
2 I & I inspection.
3
4 Councilmember Horst reported he met with the Community Services Board on November 9,
5 2006.
6-
7 Councilmember Horst stated he was very happy with the 74 percent voter turnout for the
8 election. He stated this says the people of St. Anthony are aware of and care about what is going
9 on in the community. He commented people that are interested and working to help the
10 community is what makes it great.
11
12 Councilmember Thuesen stated he attended the Comprehensive Plan open house on November
13 8, 2006. He stated attendance was disappointing. He stressed that sometimes with a document
14 as important as the Comprehensive Plan and, until funding is applied, it may be hard for people
15 to envision what is in the document. He stated there is one more opportunity on November 28,
16 for people to attend and learn more about this important document.
17
18 Mayor Faust stated that on October 28, 2006, the Fire Department hosted an honoring of former
19 firefighters and chiefs. He stated it was lots of fun, full of surprises, and great participation. He
20 mentioned he read an ordinance signed by former St. Anthony Mayor Merrill P. Stenglein in
21 1956 who is the father of the Hennepin County Commissioner.
22
23 Mayor Faust reported the Council met with the school district in a joint meeting on October 30,
24 2006.
25
26 Mayor Faust reported on November 2, 2006 he was part of the League of Minnesota's interview
27 process for a new website. He stated six companies had an hour each to present. He stated the
28 League selected a vendor to provide a more robust search engine giving St. Anthony much more
29 visibility.
30
31 Mayor Faust reported he attended the Comp Plan open house on November 8, 2006. He
32 encouraged everyone to look at this plan.
33
34 Mayor Faust stated he attended the MWMO meeting. He explained the budget for 2007 was
35 approved which included two significant items for St. Anthony. He reported the MWMO wants
36 to do a project on best management practices therefore; it would pay for 25 percent of the cost of
37 a sweeper. He reported the MWMO would also do assessments, monitoring, education, and
38 outreach programs. Mayor Faust stated MWMO allocated upwards of $60,000 for the
39 assessment. He mentioned MWMO is also in partnership with Rice Creek Watershed who views
40 the entire City of St. Anthony for the sweeping project regardless of boundaries. He stated this is
41 very positive and an excellent relationship exists because City Manager Morrison Morrison and
42 Staff work with them. He stated St. Anthony is innovative and progressive in looking for better
43 ways to make the environment better. Mayor Faust stated his policy is to sweep streets five
44 times per year, but it is usually done seven times per year; the average for most communities is
45 twice a year. Mayor Faust stated St. Anthony is a community involved regardless of who won or
46 lost and it is a wonderful thing.
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City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
November 14, 2006
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VIII. COMMUNITY FORUM.
Mayor Faust invited residents to come forward at this time and address the Council on items that
are not on the regular agenda.
Hearing none, Mayor Faust moved forward with the agenda.
IX. INFORMATION AND ANNOUNCEMENTS.
Mayor Faust pointed out the statue in Salo Park was featured in the Minnesota Architect
magazine He stated St. Anthony once again is seen as being a progressive can do city.
X. MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATIONAL DOCUMENTS.
None.
XI. ADJOURNMENT.
Mayor Faust adjourned the Council meeting at 8:55 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Dianna Wise
Timesaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
/I
ATTEST:
City Clerk
ayor