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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC 03-14-1988 .. . . . . MINUTES OF THE ARDEN HILLS REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING Monday, March 14, 1988, 7:30 p.m. - Village Hall CALL TO ORDER Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, Mayor Woodburn called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. ROLL CALL The roll being called the following members were present: Mayor Robert Woodburn, Councilmembers Nancy Hansen, Gary Peck, Thomas Sather and Jeanne present: Planner John Bergly, Public Works Supervisor Robert Administrator Patricia Morrison and Deputy Clerk Catherine Iago. Winiecki. Also Raddatz, Clerk APPROVE MINUTES Council was advised by the Clerk Administrator that Engineer Donald Christoffersen had requested Council consider the following amendment to the February 29, 1988 Council minutes: Page 7, paragraph 2, first sentence to read: "Christoffersen stated that although the tower was not operating at full capacity it is not a critical situation." Peck moved, seconded by Hansen, that Council approve the minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of February 29, 1988, as amended. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) BUSINESS FROM FLOOR None. REPORT OF PLANNER CASE #88-03; LOT DIV. & CONSOL. 4430 NORTH SNELLING, PODLASEK Council was referred to Planner's report of 3/2/88, and Planning Commission minutes of 3/2/88 relative to the application for a Lot Split and Consolidation at 4430 North Snelling Avenue, Francis Podlasek. Planner Bergly reported the requested action is to divide the property by reversing the size of the two adjacent parcels of land; the application was prompted to settle a family estate. He noted the requested Lot Split meets all of the current Zoning Code requirements as far as lot area and setbacks. Bergly also stated that no additional dwellings are proposed for construction at this time. The Planner stated that Planning Commission had unanimously recommended approval of the proposal, subject to the Attorney's review of the lot survey, for identification of any easements. Council questioned the potential for further subdivision of the parcels. Bergly advised he had discussed this with the property owners; they stated they have no desire to further subdivide at this time. The applicant had advised the parcels will remain in family ownership. Hansen moved, seconded by Peck, that Council approve Case No. 88-03, Lot Division and Consolidation, 4430 North Snelling Avenue, Francis and Judith Podlasek, and Joan Wieber, subject to the review of the survey, identification of easements, and approval by the City Attorney. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) CASE #88-05; VARIANCE SIDEYARD SETBACK, LOT 8, BLK 2, Me CLUNG'S THIRD ADDN, K. BAILEY Council was referred to Planner's Report of 3-2-88; relative to the application for a Sideyard Setback Variance, Lot 8, Block 2. McClung's Third Addition. The Planner explained the applicant had requested a 2 or 3 ft. sideyard variance for a residence to be constructed on a pie-shaped, cul-de-sac lot. He reviewed previous Council action which approved the plat with a lot depth and width variance for this lot. Bergly noted that it is not unusual for Council to allow lots which are slightly below minimum requirements, however, it is normally specified that a sufficient building envelope exists and no further variances would be granted for construction of a residence. Council was referred to the Board of Appeals minutes, 2-25-88; the Board unanimously recommended approval of a I ft. sideyard variance on the north and south property lines. . ~ . . . . Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting, March 14, 1988 Page 2 CASE #88-05 (Cont'd) Council was referred to the Planning Commission minutes of 3/2/88; the Commission motion, recommending denial of the requested variance, failed due to a tie vote. Councilmember Winiecki pointed out that the previous Council approval of the plat acknowledged the fact that the lot is recognized as meeting the minimum lot area requirements, eVen though the dimensions are below minimum standards, and that a sufficient building envelope exists. Bergly reviewed the Commission discussion which suggested the applicant consider a rearyard setback, based on the shallow lot depth as an identifiable hardship, and alternatives for redesigning the home to meet the required setbacks. He also explained the pedestrian walkways, along both the north sideyard line and the rear lot line, provide open space that visually appears as part of the lot and provides for additional separation between the homes. The Planner noted that both adjacent property owners had been advised of the requested variance and had no objections. Council discussed the possibility of a rearyard setback. Kevin Bailey, 4286 Norma Avenue, explained he was not aware of the lot dimensions being below minimum standards when he purchased the lot. He explained he has modified the design of the home by angling the side walls, and that only the corners of the house would infringe on the sideyard, the length of the side walls would remain within the required setback. He stated his preference would be for a sideyard setback variances, however, he would be amenable to approval of a rearyard setback. Councilmember Winiecki suggested consideration of the rearyard setback; rationale was based on the fact that front alignment with adjacent homes is less significant on a cul-de-sac, and the rear encroachment would only affect the applicant, not the adjacent residences. Moved by Winiecki, seconded by Woodburn, that Council grant a rearyard setback variance of up to 5 feet, in order for the proposed home design shown this evening by the applicant be placed on the lot and meet the required sideyard setbacks. Motion failed. (Winiecki, Woodburn voting in favor; Hansen, Sather and Peck opposed) (2-3) Council discussed the pedestrian walkways at the rear and north of the home; it was noted that the northerly walkway would provide visual separation between the homes. They questioned if the applicant would be agreeable to a setback variance on the north sideyard only. Bailey advised that is where the garage is located and he would not object to the home being placed closer to the pedestrian way on the north side. Council noted that the home design had been angled at the sides and there would not be a large amount of encroachment if a sideyard variance were granted; also noted the applicant has reduced the size of the home to try to bring it into compliance with required setbacks. Moved by Sather, seconded by Peck, that Council approve a sideyard setback variance of up to 3 feet on the north property line of Lot 8, Block 2, MCClung's 3rd addition, based on the fact there is a 5 foot pedestrian walkway, which provides visual separation, and, therefore, the variance would not negatively impact the neighborhood. Motion carried. (Sather, Peck, Hansen and Woodburn voting in favor; Winiecki opposed) (4-1) CASE #88-01; SITE PLAN REVIEW, MN DOT TRUCK SITE, COUNTY ROAD I Council was referred to the minutes of the 3/2/88 Planning Commission meeting; relative to the site plan review for the MuDot Truck Station located on County Road I. Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting, March 14, 1988 Page 3 . CASE #88-01 (Cont'd) Planner Bergly reviewed the background of this case noting that Council had initiated a Rezoning of this property from R-l to 1-2 and, should the Rezoning be approved, the requested variance for Landscaped area would be unnecessary. He further advised that should the proposed amendment to the Zoning Ordinance, relating to driveway widths, be approved, the requested variance for driveway widths on this site would be unnecessary. Bergly explained the Planning Commission had reviewed the site plan at their meeting of 3/2/88. Commission recommended approval of the site plan, contingent upon: the Landscape Plan be approved in its finalized form by the Planner, applicant obtain a driveway access from the County for review by staff, and that the drainage plan be reviewed and approved by Rice Creek Watershed and the City Engineer. Hansen moved, seconded by Peck, that Council approve Case #88-01, Site Plan Review for the Minnesota Department of Transportation Truck Site, located on County Road I, contingent upon: 1. Planner review and approval of the finalized landscape plan; 2. Applicant submission to the City of an approved permit for driveway access from Ramsey County; and 3. Review and approval of the drainage plan by Rice Creek Watershed District and the City Engineer. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) . LIGHTING AT DAYBRIDGE DAYCARE; HAMLINE & 96 Planner Bergly advised Council he had researched the lighting situation at Daybridge Daycare Center, located at the intersection of Hamline Ave. and Highway 96. Bergly explained he was advised by the Zoning Administrator the City had received several complaints relative to the intensity of the lights on the front of the building. He noted the Ordinance addresses the direction of the lighting by stating: "In all districts, lighting shall be so arranged as to direct light away from adjoining lots and public streets. The source of illumination shall be hooded, concealed or controlled in a manner so as not to be visible from adjoining lots or streets." It was the Planner's opinion the lights are excessively bright and he was unable to offer suggestions, at this time, as to how the lighting could be corrected. Bergly stated he has discussed this matter with Mr. Pedersen, developer of the site. and Pedersen advised he would research options to reduce the intensity of the lights. RES. #82-64; ELECTRICAL INSPECTIONS FEE INCREASE Council was referred to a letter from Electrical Inspector Gunnar Pettersen, 3/8/88, requesting an increase in the fees charged for electrical permits. . Pettersen advised the fees have not been increased for approximately six years and that he was requesting all communities he is employed by to increase the fees. He noted that Shoreview has already adopted the new fee schedule and the State Board of Electricity will be increasing fees to electrical inspections effective April 11, 1988. Council discussed how the fees increases would impact the cost for new home construction; Pettersen advised the new rates would be approximately $15.00 higher for permits and $5.00 higher for inspections. Moved by Sather, seconded by Peck, that Council adopt Resolution No. 88-12, ESTABLISHING FEES FOR ELECTRICAL PERMITS AND RESCINDING RESOLUTION NO. 82-64. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) REQ. PKING LIMITS; COUNTY ROAD F, TIX Council was referred to a letter from Don Tix and Ken Zarling, dated, 3/10/88; both gentlemen reside on County Road F and are requesting Council consider signs on County F. placement of limited parking . Don Tix advised Council the parking situation is due to the parking problems at Mounds View High School. Clerk Administrator Morrison advised County action would be necessary to post signs on this street and that the County requests a motion from Council on this matter. Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting, March 14, 1988 Page 4 . PARKING (Cont'd) Morrison advised the Ramsey County Sheriff's representatives had agreed the request is reasonable; she also noted another resident, who lives at the corner of County Road F and Fairview, had contacted her and agreed with the placement of the parking limitation signs. Don Tix and Ken Zarling advised Council they are requesting the same type of signage which is currently posted in the area. Winiecki moved, seconded by Sather, that Council request Ramsey County approval for posting limited parking signs on County Road F, between 1770 and 1814 County Road F. Peck moved, seconded by Sather, that the motion be amended to include all of County Road F between I-35W and Old Highway 10. Amendment to motion carried unanimously. (5-0) Original motion as amended carried unanimously. (5-0) Council requested the Clerk Administrator forward a letter to the County, requesting limited parking, 2 hours between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00p.m., be posted along the entire length of County Road F, between Old Highway 10 and I-35W, to insure traffic safety and due to lack of appropriate parking shoulders, and send a letter to residents along County Road F advising them of the proposed parking limitations. . PK. DEDICATION; DAYBRIDGE DAY CARE CNTR., HAMLINE/96 Councilman Sather reported to Council on park dedication discussions with Daybridge Daycare Center representatives. Sather advised that in accordance with the Ordinance prov~s~ons and based on the property valuation at $110,000, satisfaction of the park dedication fee would be set at $11,000. Daybridge has offered $5,500, based on the fact they were flexible when the Village wanted to purchase the land adjacent to the city hall and they incurred additional costs, due to the move, in the amount of $14,500. He also noted that Minnesota legislation was recently enacted whereby fees charged by cities or local government may be challenged in the courts, based on what the perceived value, need or overall benefit might be for a particular site. Randall Pedersen, representing Daybridge, explained that they were under the impression the park dedication was resolved by granting an easement for access. Council noted that the Village of Arden Hills did not force the land exchange Daybridge was involved in; it was also noted that Daybridge was agreeable to the site exchange. . Sather recommended that Council approve a park dedication satisfaction in the amount of $7,000.00 for the Daybridge Daycare site, due to the fact the developer incurred additional costs for construction due to land exchange and delays. Hansen moved, seconded by Peck, that Council approve the park dedication resolution, in the amount of $7,000.000, for the Daybridge Daycare Center site, located at the intersection of Highway 96 and Hamline Avenue, subject to resolution of the lighting problem on the front of the building. Council discussed the temporary occupancy permit and length of time to receive full payment of the park dedication fees. Peck moved, seconded by Hansen, that the motion be amended to include that the temporary certificate of occupancy be extended to March 28, 1988, pending full payment of park dedication fees and lighting problem resolution by March 25, 1988. Amendment to motion carried unanimously. (5-0) Original motion as amended carried. (Hansen, Peck. Sather and Winiecki voted in favor; Woodburn opposed) (4-1) . ORD. #255; DRIVEWAY WIDTHS; FINAL RDING OF THE ARDEN HILLS CODE BY carried unanimously. (5-0) Moved by Peck, seconded by Sather, that Council waive the final reading and approve Ordinance No. 255, AMENDING SECTION VI.G (3) OF APPENDIX A ZONING SUBSTITUTING NEW STANDARDS FOR DRIVEWAY WIDTHS. Motion . . . . Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting, March 14, 1988 Page 5 PUBLIC HEARING ORD. #256; REZONING; MNDOT TRUCK SITE, R-I TO 1-2, CO. RD. I Mayor Woodburn opened the public hearing at 9:00 p.m. The Clerk Administrator verified the publication of the Notice of Hearing in the New Brighton Bulletin on March 2 and mailed to affected property owners on February 26, 1988. After determining there were no questions from the floor, the hearing was closed at 9:05 p.m. Moved by Hansen, seconded by Peck, that Council waive the final reading and approve Ordinance No. 256, REZONING MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION TRUCK STATION SITE AT NORTHWEST CORNER OF TWIN CITIES ORDNANCE PLANT. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) Sather moved, seconded by Peck, that Council approve the Special Use Permit for the Minnesota Department of Transportation Truck Station site. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) CHAR. GAMBLG. LIC.; GUADALUPE MEXICAN EDUCATION SOCIETY Council was referred to the application from Guadalupe Mexican Education Society, Inc. for Charitable Gambling at Pot 0 Gold Bingo Hall. Moved by Sather, seconded by Peck, that Council approve the Charitable Gambling license application from Guadalupe Mexican Education Society, Inc., as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) CHAR. GAMBLG. LIC.; ORIGINAL BOOSTERS Council was referred to the application from Original Boosters for Charitable Gambling at the Blue Fox Inn. Councilmember Sather advised that the State Gambling Board has denied renewal of the Original Boosters Charitable Gambling application, pending resolution of tax liabilities owed to the State. It was his understanding the taxes and reports were submitted to the State on this date. Sather moved, seconded by Peck, that Council approve the Charitable Gambling License application from Original Boosters, at the Blue Fox Inn, pending receipt by the State Charitable Gambling Control Board of past due tax reports and funds; furthermore, that Council direct staff to forward a letter to the Board which states Arden Hills Council approval and requests the State waive the normal 30 day waiting period. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) LJVFD CONTRACT UPDATE Mayor Woodburn reported on the LJVFD contract negotiations; he requested Council comments on the two issues which have been difficult to settle. He identified the two items as follows: 1. Ownership of capital equipment; should the City purchase equipment or the fire department; and, 2. Retention of capital (depreciated) funds; should a portion of these funds be maintained by the City and authorized for use only upon request by the fire department. After discussion, Council concurred that the LJVFD should utilize some of their capital reserves for purchase of capital equipment before the City would begin purchasing the equipment through their normal budgetary process. Councilmember Peck commented that he would request the fire department submit a balance sheet of actual operating expenses for the fire department; Council agreed. REPORT OF PUBLIC WORKS SUPERVISOR LONG RANGE PLAN; CITY PROPERTY AT HAMLINE AND 96 Council was referred to the Public Safety/Works Committee minutes of 2/18/88; recommending the Planning Commission develop a long range plan for the City Hall and Public Works complex. . . . . Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting, March 14, 1988 Page 6 CITY PROP. (Cont'd) The Public Works Supervisor requested Council authorize a study by the staff, consultants and committees, for expansion of the City Hall and Public Works facilities, site usage, and a program for funding such a development. After discussion, Council concurred that the Staff, the Public Safety/Works Committee, and Parks Committee be directed to organize a long range plan for the recently purchased City property, including a study of a fire station and temporary soccer fields on the site, as well as, alternatives for funding the project, for Council review at their Regular Council meeting held April 25, 1988. Raddatz suggested the Council consider placing some plantings along the southerly border of the land purchased, in an effort to begin screening between the City property and the Townhouse Villages. TEMP. SOCCER/FOOTBALL FIELD; CITY PROPERTY Council was referred to the Parks Committee minutes of 2/25/88; recommending that a soccer/football field be constructed, for temporary use, on the property purchased by the City for future expansion. The Committee estimated the cost of the project at approximately $6,000.00; soccer goals costs $2,000.00. Council expressed concerns relative to parking and fencing the site; Councilmember Winiecki suggested another location for the temporary field would be the Round Lake park site. In discussion, Councilmember Sather stated the Round Lake park site may not be feasible, due to wetland. Council commented that it may be more prudent to delay construction of such a project for one year, based on the traffic increase on Highway 96 due to proposed MnDot highway improvements scheduled for this summer. Council concurred that this matter be referred to the Parks Committee for more specific cost estimates, which include fencing, and a proposal for parking. It was suggested that a parking agreement could be reached with Daybridge for use of their site; also, Council suggested staff and committees study the feasibility of a field, in conjunction with the long range plan. REPORT ON WATER TOWER Council was referred to a letter from Donald Lund of SEH, dated 3-11-88; advising that SEH would review alternatives that were outlined in the 1967 report on the water tower to determine if they still meet the needs of the community, and that they would report back to Council. Council was also referred to the Public Works Supervisor's memorandum of 3-11-88, recommending that the controls from the old water tower should be moved to the new water tower immediately. In discussion, Council commented that the Engineer should have kept the Council updated on the alternatives discussed in the 1967 report and advised each subsequent Council of these alternatives relating to the tower. It was the opinion of some of the Councilmembers that the consultants were lax in keeping the Council informed, and suggested that prior to reappointment of the consulting engineering firm, Council should consider interviewing other firms. Council concurred to hold further discussion of this matter until such time as SEH had completed their review and investigation of the alternatives, to determine the community needs, and prepared a report for Council. OTHER BUSINESS USE OF BALL FIELDS; LITTLE LKS. LEAGUE Hills; Sather fields Councilmember Sather advised he had received a request from the Little Lakes Little League for permission to utilize baseball fields in Arden the league has members between the ages of 7-14 and has grown in size. explained the teams are from the northern Ramsey County suburbs and use in the surrounding communities. Council concurred to refer this matter to the Parks Committee for study and recommendation at their meeting of March 28, 1988. . . . . Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting, March 14, 1988 Page 7 RECYCLING BROCHURE Council extended their appreciation to Paul Malone for his time and efforts in preparing the recycling brochures for distribution to residents of Arden Hills. ODOR EMISSION DATA FORM Councilmember Winiecki advised a form had been drafted for use in recording data when complaints are received relative to the odor emissions from the rendering plant. She explained the form was designed to record pertinent data which would assist the City and other agencies when outlining conditions of operation of the plant in the permits issued. MEETING SEN. DURENBERGER; DISC. ARMY RES. FACILITY Councilmember Winiecki stated she had contacted Senator Durenberger's office to arrange a meeting with the Senator to discuss the proposed Army Reserve Training facility at the arsenal. Winiecki explained she would be visiting Washington and would be happy to forward any Council statements to the Senator at the meeting. PURCH. SOFTBALL BACKSTOP Council was referred to a memorandum from the Parks Director dated 3-11-88; Buckley advised he had checked with several agencies and no surplus backstops were available for purchase at this time. Moved by Peck, seconded by Sather, that Council authorize the purchase of a softball backstop from Minnesota Playgrounds, in the amount of $1,013.00. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) REQ. SEMAPHORE; CO. RD. E & PINE TREE DRIVE Council was referred to a letter from MSI Insurance to Ramsey County Public Works dated 3-3-88; requesting County consideration for placement of a semaphore at the intersection of County Road E and Pine Tree Drive. Council concurred to maintain the position, as discussed previously, a semaphore at the intersection would not improve traffic flow and may create more problems. STAFFING AT CITY HALL Councilmember Hansen requested Council consider scheduling a work session meeting to discuss the it was her opinion an assessment of staff, current and improvement of services should be discussed. staffing needs at City Hall; services offered by the City Council concurred to hold a work session meeting on Friday, March 18, at 6:30 a.m., at the Village Hall. SEMAPHORE; CO. RD. G-2 Mayor Woodburn questioned if Arden Hills would be contributing toward the semaphore Ramsey County was placing on County Road G-2. Clerk Administrator Morrison advised the County had not requested any contribution at this time. SUPERFUND ACCOUNT Mayor Woodburn questioned if an account had been designated for Superfund monies; Clerk Administrator Morrison advised a fund had been established. FROZEN WATERMAINS Mayor Woodburn requested the Public Works Supervisor report on City procedures for clearing frozen the procedure for alleviating the problem of frozen watermains; Raddatz reviewed watermains. REPORT OF CLERK ADMINISTRATOR 1988 SALARIES; NON-UNION EMPLOYS. Council was referred to Clerk Administrator's memorandum of 2-29-88; recommending the 1988 salary increases for non-union employees. Mayor Woodburn suggested discussing the salaries at their work session scheduled for March 18; Councilmember Winiecki agreed. Sather moved, seconded by Peck, that Council approve the 1988 salary increases for non-union employees, as recommended and outlined in the Clerk Administrator's memorandum of 2-29-88. Motion carried. (Sather, Peck, Hansen voting in favor; Winiecki and Woodburn opposed) (3-2) . . . '. .' Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting, March 14, 1988 Page 8 to forward letter of carried unanimously. Moved by Sather, seconded by Peck, that Council accept the Planning Commission resignations from members Rick Savage and Gary Thorn and direct staff appreciation to each member for their service. Motion (5-0) PLAN COMM. RESIGNATIONS; R. SAVAGE & G. THORN PLAN. COMM. APPTMTS. Councilmember Winiecki advised that resident Vince Linders had requested appointment to the Planning Commission; she reviewed Linders background. Councilmember Sather stated that Board of Appeals members Dan Ashbach and David Carlson had expressed an interest in appointment to the Commission. Council concurred that Councilmember Winiecki should contact Ashbach and Carlson to confirm their interest and continue this matter to the Regular Council meeting of March 28, 1988. SENIOR STENO POSITION Council was referred to the Clerk Administrator's memorandum of 3-11-88; which outlined the applicants interviewed for the senior stena position. Morrison advised she was not prepared to recommend any of the applicants for appointment and requested Council authorization to re-advertise for the position. She noted that Shirley Marshall had offered to return for a training period with the person hired for the position. Council concurred to hold this matter for discussion at their work session held on March 18, 1988. REQ. PURCH. EQUIPMENT; RECORDING/DICTATING Council was referred to a memorandum from Deputy Clerk Iago, 3-11-88; requesting purchase of Lanier recording/dictating equipment as budgeted for 1988. Moved by Peck, seconded by Sather, that Council approve the purchase of Lanier recording/dictating/transcribing equipment and a hand held dictating unit, from Wahl and Wahl, in the amount of $686.00, as budgeted for 1988. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) LICENSE RENEWAL; RED ARROW DISPOSAL Moved by Sather, seconded by Peck, that Council approve the 1988 Rubbish Hauler license renewal for Red Arrow Disposal. Motion carried unanimously (5-0) CLAIMS & PAYROLL Hansen moved, seconded by Sather, that Council approve Claims and Payroll as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) ADJOURNMENT Hansen moved, seconded by Peck, that the meeting be adjourned at 11:59 p.m. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) 7 Patricia J. orrison Clerk Adml istrator 1J:_~~jt:/Y2'7/~di1CA:_- Robert L. Woodburn Mayor NOTICE OF MEETINGS The next Regular Council Meeting will be held on Monday, March 28, 1988, at 7:30 p.m., at the Village Hall.