HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-26-23-R - DITEN HILLS
Approved: July 10. 2023
CITY OF ARDEN HILLS, MINNESOTA
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
JUNE 26, 2023
7:00 P.M. -ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, Mayor David Grant called to order the regular City
Council meeting at 7:00 p.m.
Present: Mayor David Grant, Councilmembers Brenda Holden, Tena Monson and
Tom Fabel
Absent: Councilmember Emily Rousseau(Excused)
Also present: City Administrator Dave Perrault; Public Works Director/City Engineer
David Swearingen; Community Development Director Jessica Jagoe; City Attorney Joel
Jamnik; and Assistant to the City Administrator/City Clerk Julie Hanson
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Councilmember Monson requested Item 5A be addressed prior to Item 2.
MOTION: Councilmember Holden moved and Councilmember Monson seconded a
motion to approve the meeting agenda as amended. The motion carried (4-01.
5. STAFF COMMENTS
A. TCAAP/Rice Creek Commons Update
City Administrator Perrault stated the TCAAP Advisory Committee met on June 15 to discuss
a potential JDA special worksession. He explained the JDA was planning to hold a special
worksession on July 11 to discuss future community engagement. He indicated the JDA was
planning to host an open house style event but more planning was needed. He reported the JDA
would also be reviewing an updated roadmap. He explained at the last Council meeting the
Council asked what was driving shorter building heights within Town Center, whether this was
the price of concrete or the level of the water table. He noted staff reached out to Alatus and noted
the building heights were being lowered more so due to the price of concrete than the water table.
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—JUNE 26, 2023 2
Councilmember Holden explained she received an email from a resident last week and there was
concern that the JDA was six months into 2023 and there had not been a mention of the TCAAP
project, the JDA meetings, or any information that was available on the City's website or in the
City newsletter. She asked when the City would begin putting information regarding TCAAP in
the City's newsletter.
City Administrator Perrault stated the July newsletter would have a short section for TCAAP
that would point residents to the City's website for further information. He also noted that
TCAAP information was provided in at least two prior newsletters.
Councilmember Holden questioned when the City will be discussing a TCAAP open house.
City Administrator Perrault explained direction in May was to bring this matter to a future
worksession in order to coordinate this meeting with Goff, who was the communication
coordinator for the JDA, and the County. He anticipated he would know more about this topic
after the JDA discusses future community engagement ideas at their July 11 special worksession.
Mayor Grant asked when the JDA last engaged with the public.
City Administrator Perrault reported this has not been done since 2018.
Mayor Grant inquired if an updated AUAR had been completed.
City Administrator Perrault stated staff requested a quote from Kimley Horn to do that work,
but this has been put on hold until further information was known about the thumb parcel and
density scenarios.
Mayor Grant questioned if there has been any study on transportation and impacts to local
streets.
City Administrator Perrault reported this has not been done.
Mayor Grant asked if any financial analysis had been completed for this project.
City Administrator Perrault stated the results have not been received from Ehlers. He noted
Ehlers would be working on the revenue side of this while the City would be working on the
expense side.
Mayor Grant questioned when this information would be available.
City Administrator Perrault anticipated this information would not be available till later next
week.
Mayor Grant inquired if updated policing information had been received from Ramsey County.
City Administrator Perrault stated he met with Ramsey County several weeks ago and updated
density information was provided. He hoped this information would be available shortly.
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—JUNE 26, 2023 3
Mayor Grant commented on how the cost for infrastructure has increased from $61 million to
$89 million. He requested further information on how almost $30 million was added.
City Administrator Perrault indicated inflation and labor supply has led to the price increases.
Mayor Grant stated City costs have risen to just over $11 million from $8.2 million. He
requested staff break down these expenses further.
City Administrator Perrault explained the water tower would cost roughly $7 million and the
remaining portion would be for City utilities along the spine road.
Mayor Grant commented he heard the JDA Advisory Committee is planning to complete its
work by September. He asked if this was correct.
City Administrator Perrault stated the JDA Advisory Committee was hoping to have a meeting
in September to talk through density scenarios and updated financial implications which would set
the stage for a term sheet by the end of the year.
Mayor Grant noted he received an email that had 20 to 30 questions from a resident who would
like answers. He indicated he read through these questions and they seemed legitimate. He stated
this resident would like answers to these questions and he asked that the City respond to this
email.
Councilmember Fabel explained it was his understanding this email was suggesting those
questions were appropriate for a public discussion. He did not disagree with this. He indicated
there were not answers for some of those questions. He stated the current status of the project was
in the same state it has been since 2016. He explained interest rates, inflation, changing lifestyles,
and COVID have all happened since that time. He believed it would be appropriate to address
these questions once more answers were available.
Mayor Grant indicated things have changed since the JDA was now back in session and there are
advisory committees. He noted the JDA has been meeting now for six months and there were
answers to some of the questions.
Councilmember Fabel commented there were a series of topics that could be addressed at a
public session. He explained it will make much more sense when more information as available,
given the fact there was a gap of inactivity for five years, which has seen a great deal of damage.
Mayor Grant stated he disagreed with these statements and he believed the City should answer
the questions.
Councilmember Holden explained there were two separate emails that the Council may be
discussing at this point in time.
Councilmember Monson reported there were a lot of questions.that were asked early in the year.
She noted the JDA does not have all of the answers yet. She explained the JDA was trying to get
up to speed in order to understand the market conditions and increased costs. She commented the
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—JUNE 26, 2023 4
JDA had every intention of answering the questions, but at this time, the JDA did not have all of
the answers. She anticipated many of the questions would be answered when the financials were
completed by Kimley Horn.
Councilmember Holden indicated some of the questions would be quite easy to answer.
Councilmember Monson supported the City waiting to respond to these questions until further
information was available and the financial information was completed.
Councilmember Holden questioned if Arden Hills residents would be advised before potential
decisions were made. She anticipated the answer to this question would be no.
Councilmember Monson stated she would like to have the scenario numbers brought forward.
Councilmember Holden commented the bottom line was there would be expenditures and there
would be revenues, and that a number of the questions being asked by this resident could be
answered.
Councilmember Holden questioned what size water tower would be constructed.
City Administrator Perrault reported the water tower in the plan was for a one million gallon
tank. He noted this could change depending on the density numbers.
Mayor Grant expressed frustration with the fact the City was not able to answer basic questions
for residents regarding this development. He supported staff going through and answering the
questions that could be answered.
Councilmember Fabel stated any common sense questions could be answered by the Mayor. He
explained the Mayor has historical information on this project. He noted he was happy to have
conversations with people who have questions.
Mayor Grant reported there was a TCAAP Advisory Committee that was holding closed
meetings and were discussing the future of this project. He noted he has no knowledge of what
occurs at these meetings. He stated he would like to attend these meetings. He indicated if anyone
has the answers to these questions, it would be the person working on those items, which would
be Councilmember Fabel or City Administrator Perrault. He reiterated that he would like to have
these questions answered by staff and asked if there was support from the Council.
Councilmember Monson stated she supported staff reviewing and answering these questions.
Councilmember Fabel and Councilmember Holden were in agreement.
The City Council directed City Administrator Perrault to answer the list of questions to the extent
of his knowledge to date and to contact the resident directly to provide answers.
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—JUNE 26, 2023 5
2. PUBLIC INQUIRIES/INFORMATIONAL
Donna Wiemann, 1406 Arden View Drive, thanked the City Council for the improvements at
Perry Park. She explained she has heard about the delay with TCAAP, but noted it was her
understanding the City devised a plan within the County's parameters, and after approving the
plans, the County then changed their mind and wanted more affordable housing units. She
indicated the City increased the number of affordable units to 20% and then the County wanted
more units overall which led to the stall. She reported the Arden Hills City Council tried to meet
with the JDA and Ramsey County failed to show up. She asked that it not be implied that the City
was not showing up. She noted one Councilmember has set himself up to be the only person
talking to the developer and County staff. She stated this was wrong. She was glad the County's
website information would be included in the July newsletter. She recommended City website
information regarding TCAAP also be included in the July newsletter.
Gregg Larson, 3377 North Snelling Avenue, stated at the last worksession the Council discussed
the scheduling of a State of the City presentation. He noted the last Council chose September 15,
2022, at 7:30 a.m. on the Boston Scientific campus, which was a terrible choice. He estimated less
than 10 residents attended that meeting, with 4 of them being the candidates running for office. He
questioned who the old Council wanted to attend this meeting. He encouraged the new Council to
choose a day, time, and venue that was more accessible to all. He anticipated a Saturday morning
at 10:00 a.m. at City Hall would be a wise choice and would encourage public participation. He
hoped the new Council would welcome resident dialogue. He noted the old Council did not. He
encouraged the Council to answer questions then and there, not later. He understood not all
questions may be answered, but he hoped the Council would try. He urged the new Council to
continue to change up the old.
Linda Swanson, 1124 Ingerson Road, tried to make a comment but there were technical
difficulties.
City Administrator Perrault stated he would follow up with Ms. Swanson regarding her
comment.
3. RESPONSE TO PUBLIC INQUIRIES
A. Public Inquiry Response from June 12, 2023 Regular City Council Meeting
City Administrator Perrault provided the Council with a response to the public inquiries from
the June 12, 2023 regular City Council meeting. He explained the first comment was from Ms.
Swanson with a question directed at Councilmember Fabel, the question was, "what else are we
giving away at the expense of Arden Hills residents?". He stated he did not believe it was staffls
place to address this question. He noted the second comment came from Ms. Wieman asking
when the County's estimate would be provided to the City. He anticipated the density scenarios
and updated estimates would be discussed in September, which would drive the direction of the
project.
Councilmember Holden asked what the first question was.
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—JUNE 26, 2023 6
City Administrator Perrault replied the first question was "what else are we giving away at the
expense of Arden Hills residents."
Councilmember Holden stated that since City Administrator Perrault didn't want to answer, she
would answer it. She stated increased density would be included in the project and the City did
not know how it would pay for this project, but the City did not know what it would be giving
away.
Councilmember Fabel stated if the question was what is the City giving away, the answer is
nothing. He noted he was in the process of negotiating a mutually acceptable plan for the
development of TCAAP and reiterated that nothing is being given away in the process. He
anticipated there would be compromises along the way but there was nothing on the table at this
time.
4. PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS
None.
5. STAFF COMMENTS
B. Transportation Update
Public Works Director Swearingen reported construction will continue on Lexington Avenue
both north and south bound. He noted there would be a short term closure on Red Fox Road to
complete the watermain work. He explained Ramsey County has stated Lexington Avenue will
have all lanes of traffic open by August 1.
Public Works Director Swearingen commented the first phase of the County Road E/Old
Snelling roundabout project was underway. He reviewed the work that would occur during Phase
1 and Phase 2 of the project. He estimated the Phase 2 work would take four to six weeks which
would bring the City through the end of August.
Councilmember Holden requested staff speak with Health Partners because they were having
trouble with the elderly making it to appointments on time without prior notice of the detours.
Public Works Director Swearingen explained he would speak with Health Partners.
Councilmember Monson asked if the southern leg of the roundabout would be closed through
mid-July.
Public Works Director Swearingen explained this was the case and noted Phase 2 would begin
mid-July through the end of August.
Councilmember Monson questioned how long Ridgewood Road would remain closed.
Public Works Director Swearingen reported Ridgewood Road was closed due to the watermain
tie in, which started today and should be completed by the end of the day.
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—JUNE 26, 2023 7
C. Night to Unite Update
Assistant to the City Administrator/City Clerk Hanson stated individuals interested in hosting
a Night to Unite event are encouraged to register their gathering by Friday, July 14 in order to
ensure a deputy visit. Events may also be visited by fire department personnel as well as City and
other community officials. The City has information about Night to Unite, including the link for
online registration, available on our website's main page under News and Announcements.
Registration can be completed online. Residents can find more information about Night to Unite
in general on the Ramsey County Sheriff's Office webpage or by visiting ramseycounty.us and
typing night to unite in the search field. They may also call 651-266-7339 to speak with someone
directly. Residents wishing to donate school supplies can bring items to their local neighborhood
event or drop the items off at the Ramsey County Sheriff's Patrol Station located at 1411 Paul
Kirkwold Drive between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday, July 31 through Friday, August 4. A
list of neighborhoods participating in Night to Unite will be sent to the City Council when it
becomes available to staff.
Councilmember Holden asked that residents be allowed to drop schools supplies off at City Hall,
along with at the patrol station.
6. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. June 12, 2023, Regular City Council
Councilmember Monson noted she provided staff with minor changes to the minutes.
MOTION: Councilmember Holden moved and Councilmember Monson seconded a
motion to approve the June 12, 2023, Regular City Council meeting minutes
as amended. The motion carried (4-0).
7. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. Motion to Approve Consent Agenda Item - Claims and Payroll
B. Motion To Approve Resolution 2023-033 Supporting Bond Funding For
Forcemain Replacement Project And Resolution 2023-034 Supporting Bond
Funding For The Old Highway 10 Trail Project
C. Motion To Approve Resolution 2023-036 Adopting The Updated Ramsey County
Comprehensive Emergency Operations Plan (CEOP)
D. Motion To Approve Resolution 2023-035 — Planning Case 23-010 — Site Plan
Review For 4001 Lexington Avenue N., Sign Standard Adjustment
E. Motion To Approve Nuisance Signs Management Policy
F. Motion To Approve Resolution 2023-032 Accepting Bid And Authorizing Award
Of Contract To Peterson Companies, Inc. — Arden Manor Park And Floral Park
Improvements Project
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—JUNE 26, 2023 8
MOTION: Councilmember Holden moved and Councilmember Monson seconded a
motion to approve the Consent Calendar as presented and to authorize
execution of all necessary documents contained therein. The motion carried
(4-0).
8. PULLED CONSENT ITEMS
None.
9. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Planning Case 23-011 — Zoning Code Amendment To Chapter 13, Section
1380, Subsections 5.1 And 5.2 - TCAAP Redevelopment Code In The Campus
Commercial Zoning District
Community Development Director Jagoe stated in November 2012, the City Council approved
a Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) with Ramsey County which establishes a partnership between
the City of Arden Hills and Ramsey County with the goal of the remediation and redevelopment
of the 427-acre Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant (TCAAP) site. Under the JPA, the City and
County created a Joint Development Authority (JDA) that is the joint governing entity of the
TCAAP site as allowed by the Joint Powers Act and Minnesota State Laws. The JDA is the
authority responsible for, but not limited to, environmental remediation, elimination of blight,
infrastructure construction and financing, comprehensive planning and zoning, and economic
development and redevelopment. The JDA Board is comprised of two County Commissioners,
two City Councilmembers, and an additional non-elected City appointee as the Chair. Key points
of the JPA are as follows:
• The County will take actions necessary to resolve the environmental contamination. —
Completed
• The City will prepare an AUAR and Master Plan. The Master Plan will be approved by
both the City and the County and will be implemented by the JDA. — Completed
• The City and County are responsible for installing their respective public infrastructure
as outlined by the JPA. — TBD
Community Development Director Jagoe reported between 2013 —2016, the City facilitated the
process of developing the Master Plan for the TCAAP site, which as noted above was the
responsibility of the City under the JPA. Planning elements of the Master Plan included defining
the public engagement process, land use, circulation and movement, utilities, environmental
remediation, parks and open space, implementation plan, and a regulatory plan. In 2016, the City
adopted the most recent version of the TRC, Section 1380 of the zoning code which includes the
regulating plan, land use table, design standards, and other regulations related to land
development that are specific to the TCAAP site. The proposed 427- acre redevelopment referred
to as Rice Creek Commons will include:
• Retail, office and light industrial development
• A town center
• Well-defined neighborhoods with architectural diversity
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—JUNE 26, 2023 9
• A wide variety of housing options to serve young professionals, empty nesters, and
seniors
• Abundant parks and open space
• Trails that provide for convenient and safe pedestrian access to commercial areas and
other site amenities
Community Development Director Jagoe commented in addition, this document also includes a
development flowchart that outlines the approval processes for future land development of
TCAAP that follows the terms as outlined in the JPA. Future development proposals for TCAAP
conforming with the TRC (or within the flexibilities permitted) would fall under the purview and
review of the JDA. As shown in the flowchart, the City maintains the responsibility for processing
TRC Amendments (also elements not meeting allowed flexibilities). The JPA identifies two
classifications of an Amendment to the TCAAP Master Plan: 1) Major Amendment or 2) Minor
Amendment. A minor amendment does not involve an amendment to the City's Comprehensive
Plan and is a change within a Development Site (i.e. TRC Zoning Districts) deemed desirable by
the JDA to implement the Development. The JDA shall recommend such minor amendments to
the City and County, and if approved by both parties, the TCAAP Master Plan shall be modified
consistent with the approved amendment. For the City, a TRC Amendment would follow our
standard procedures for processing a land use application with a recommendation of the Planning
Commission and City Council decision. As part of a TRC Amendment, the City will request
confirmation of approval by Ramsey County. At their May 1, 2023 work session, the JDA
discussed the Campus Commercial Zoning District and indicated support for the City to proceed
with consideration for expanding the allowed uses in this district.
Mayor Grant discussed the list of added uses, which included a microbrewery and a daycare. He
noted this site was originally set aside to create jobs. He noted if a daycare were to come forward
and this ordinance amendment were approved, the City would have no reason to deny the request.
Community Development Director Jagoe reported this was the case, because a daycare would
now be a permitted use subject to the design standards in the TRC.
Councilmember Holden asked if the RFP was still out there for Ramsey County.
Community Development Director Jagoe stated this was the case.
Mayor Grant opened the public hearing at 8:03 p.m.
With no one coming forward to speak, Mayor Grant closed the public hearing at 8:04 p.m.
10. NEW BUSINESS
A. Planning Case 23-011 — Zoning Code Amendment To Chapter 13, Section
1380 TCAAP Redevelopment Code, Campus Commercial Zoning District
• Ordinance 2023-006—Amendments to Chapter 13, Section 1380,
Subsection 5.1 and Subsection 5.2
• Authorization for Publication of Summary Ordinance 2023-006
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—JUNE 26, 2023 10
Community Development Director Jagoe stated based on the JDA discussion, at their May 8,
2023 regular meeting, the City Council directed staff to bring forward the proposed ordinance
amendment to the Planning Commission for the first review and to hold a public hearing. The
land use types that have been identified to be included within the Campus Commercial Zoning
District are those commercial land uses currently allowed within the TRC Zoning District Land
Use Table. In 2015/16, one of the concepts discussed during the adoption of the Master Plan was
that this site would be attractive for development as corporate headquarters with a campus design
that included amenities as complimentary land uses.
Community Development Director Jagoe reported one of the purpose statements of the TRC is
to "create regulations that realize market potential and promote the creation of jobs and economic
development." To continue fostering economic prosperity from varying markets for commercial
developments (i.e. office, retail, clinic, personal services, etc.), the overall objective of the
proposed amendment to the TRC Land Use Table is to expand permitted land uses within this
zoning district to broaden the potential for future site development. The proposed land use
changes for Planning Commission review are mirrored after those land uses currently allowed for
in the Town Center Zoning District. Staff did also include a couple of other suggested land use
additions based on permitted uses in the Retail Mixed-Use and Flex Office Districts that were
consistent with the overall intent of the Campus Commercial Zoning District. If approved, an
Applicant of any future proposed commercial development in the Campus Commercial District
would be subject to the formal review process as outlined in the JDA for the TCAAP site.
Community Development Director Jagoe reviewed the amendments to consider in further detail
and offered the following Findings of Fact as recommended by the Planning Commission:
1. The City of Arden Hills is proposing to amend ordinance language to allow for
commercial land uses outlined in the TRC land use chart as permitted or accessory uses
within the Campus Commercial Zoning District.
2. The proposed ordinance will include amendments to the language of Chapter 13 —Zoning
Code, Section 1380 — TCAAP Redevelopment Code, Subsection 5 — Schedule of
Permitted Uses of the City Code.
3. The proposed amendment advances the purpose and intent goals in the City's TCAAP
Redevelopment Code by broadening the commercial land uses allowed in the Campus
Commercial Zoning District.
4. The proposed amendment is consistent with the Campus Commercial future land use
classification in the City's 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
5. Amendments to the Zoning Code regulations require a public hearing prior to action by the
City Council.
6. If the zoning amendments were approved, an Applicant would be required to submit a land
use application that would be subject to the formal review process.
7. The Planning Commission conducted a public hearing for the Text Amendment on June 7,
2023.
Community Development Director Jagoe stated the Planning Commission reviewed this
application at their June 7, 2023 meeting. At that time, they recommended approval as presented
of Planning Case 23-011 for Zoning Code Amendments to Chapter 13 to add permitted and
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—JUNE 26, 2023 11
accessory uses in the Campus Commercial Zoning District by a 6-0-1 vote (Commissioner
Wicklund abstained).
MOTION: Councilmember Monson moved and Councilmember Fabel seconded a motion
to adopt Ordinance 2023-006 for Planning Case 23-011 for Zoning Code
Amendments to Chapter 13, Section 1380 — TCAAP Redevelopment Code,
Section 5 — Schedule of Permitted Uses, Subsections 5.1 and 5.2 of the Arden
Hills City Code to add permitted and accessory uses in the Campus
Commercial Zoning District based on the Findings of Fact in the June 26,
2023 Report to the City Council.
Councilmember Holden stated she would be voting against this Ordinance. While she believed
this language was a good idea, she believed the timing was not right given the fact the County had
an RFP that was currently underway. She indicated it would have been better to have considered
this change prior to the RFP being put out.
Mayor Grant asked when RFP's had to be submitted.
Community Development Director Jagoe stated RFP's had to be submitted by July 28.
Councilmember Monson agreed the timing was not perfect, but she encouraged the Council not
let perfect be the enemy of good. She commented on how market conditions have changed since
the pandemic and asked that the Council be flexible in order to meet these new market conditions.
It was her hope these changes would bring the highest and best use to this property.
Councilmember Fabel stated it was his opinion this was a good and important thing to
accomplish. He explained in 2016 when the original plan came through the hope was to have a
corporate campus on the thumb property. He reported there has been radical changes since that
time. He asked that the City open this area to the maximum possible uses for commercial growth
and employment opportunities. He understood it would have been nice to have this done prior to
the RFP's being sent out, but this did not occur. He stated there was a need to dispatch this matter
in a timely manner and in no way would this text amendment prejudice the proposals that were
coming in. He noted RFP's would continue to be accepted through July 28. He indicated no harm
was caused by the timing of the adoption of the amendment. He reported he would be voting in
favor of this as should everyone who wants a successful project.
Councilmember Holden indicated the insult from Councilmember Fabel was inappropriate but
expected these days. She noted the RFP process could have been pulled and restarted, however
this was not done. She reported people may have already bid on this project before all of the land
changes were proposed. She supported going through this process properly in order to keep the
City out of future litigation. She feared that making a change part of the way through the RFP
process did not smell right. She explained she still wished for a very happy and successful project
on TCAAP.
Mayor Grant stated he agreed with most of the comments. He understood the timing was terrible
and he did not like the fact that the terms within the RFP would be changed midstream. He
questioned if this change would bring about the highest and best use given the fact dry cleaners
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—JUNE 26, 2023 12
and liquor stores would now be allowed. He reported the original vision for this site was a
corporate campus that would bring a substantial employment base. He encouraged the Council to
not forget about the need to generate jobs within this project. He indicated this property was ideal
for a corporate campus. He noted he would be voting to support this motion for timing purposes
only.
The motion carried 3-1 (Councilmember Holden opposed).
MOTION: Councilmember Holden moved and Councilmember Monson seconded a
motion to authorize staff to publish a Summary Ordinance of 2023-006 for
Planning Case 23-011. The motion carried (4-0).
11. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
12. COUNCIL COMMENTS
Councilmember Monson commented on the importance of having daycare centers that were
close to home. She explained this should be kept in mind when considering the zoning in TCAAP.
Councilmember Monson explained she attended the League of Minnesota Cities Conference in
Duluth last week. She noted there was a lot of talk surrounding cannabis, sustainability and
climate action plans.
Councilmember Monson discussed how she was serving on the JDA and was available to
discuss this project. She reiterated that Councilmember Fabel was not the sole voice nor the sole
vote for this project for the City.
Councilmember Fabel thanked Councilmember Monson for this statement. He noted he was
available to discuss TCAAP with residents. He explained many major projects are attended only
by staff members and it has always been this way, but this project happens to have two elected
officials attending these meetings as well. He commented on how this make up was helping to
move this project along and has nothing to do with concealing anything.
Councilmember Holden asked staff to explain how the City addressed properties that were not
being properly maintained.
City Administrator Perrault commented on the citation and abatement processes that could be
pursued by the City.
Councilmember Holden discussed the State of the City events the Council has held over the past
several years and noted the events held in the evening were not well attended. She reported a new
venue was used last year and thought this affected attendance.
Councilmember Holden explained she did not believe it was true she has the same level of
access to information as Councilmember Fabel and Councilmember Monson with respect to the
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—JUNE 26, 2023 13
JDA and the TCAAP development. She stated whenever she has tried to place TCAAP on the
agenda, this has been struck down. She indicated she was not able to get information regarding the
JDA Advisory Committee.
Mayor Grant indicated CTV was at the last State of the City and residents could view this event
along with each State of the City for the past seven years. He commented there were more people
in attendance than just those running for office. He stated the Council remained at the venue after
the State of the City to meet with people and answer questions.
Mayor Grant stated with regard to TCAAP, he was not receiving the PDF's or documents even
after being requested. He reported the information discussed at the JDA Advisory Committee was
only available to Councilmember Fabel and he was not allowed to attend these meetings. He
noted Councilmember Fabel could open these meetings to the public, but he chooses to not do
this. Based on the open meeting law requirements, he cannot discuss what was going on at the
JDA meetings with either Councilmember Monson or Councilmember Fabel.
Mayor Grant recommended the Arden Hills Notes include an article on the opening of Rabata.
Mayor Grant explained the City was awarded a grant of$510,000 for sewer and water. He stated
the City was grateful for these funds. In addition, the City received $6+ million for a new fire
station.
Mayor Grant stated he received an email from a resident regarding the silt fence for a house
being built on Ridgewood Road. He understood the City Administrator received this same email
and asked that the Public Works Director receive this email.
Public Works Director/City Engineer Swearingen reported he did receive this email and staff
would be reviewing the drainage patterns to ensure water was flowing towards the street.
City Administrator Perrault stated he received an email from Ms. Swanson who were trying to
speak during the Public Inquiry and noted her comment was that her list was a list of questions
and not a list of items for discussion at a future open house.
City Administrator Perrault clarified that the Council was receiving all of the same information
for TCAAP, including handouts and summaries. He noted staff was not withholding anything.
ADJOURN
MOTION: Councilmember Holden moved and Councilmember Monson seconded a
motion to adiourn. The motion carried (4-0).
Mayor Grant adjourned the Regular City Council Meeting at 8:40 p.m.
J 1 Hanson David Grant
CV Clerk Mayor