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HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-08-24-R ,-A�EN_HILLS Approved: August 12, 2024 CITY OF ARDEN HILLS, MINNESOTA REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JULY 8,2024 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 Tom Fabel, Brenda Holden and Emily Rousseau Absent: Councilmember Tena Monson(excused) Also present: City Administrator Dave Perrault; Public Works Director/City Engineer David Swearingen; Community Development Director Jessica Jagoe; Finance Director Joua Yang; and Assistant to the City Administrator/City Clerk Julie Hanson PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Mayor Grant requested Item 8C be pulled from the Consent Agenda for discussion as Item 9A. MOTION: Councilmember Holden moved and Mayor Grant seconded a motion to approve the meeting agenda as amended. The motion carried (4-0). 2. TCAAP/RICE CREEK COMMONS UPDATE City Administrator Perrault stated the Joint Development Authority has not met since the last Council meeting, neither have either of the committees. We are still waiting on an update from Alatus and their work with a private development partner, we expect a draft of their proposal sometime this week. The energy committee is also in the midst of planning a meeting to with the energy consultant to hear the status of their project. Lastly, the next JDA meeting is tentatively scheduled for July 23rd. Councilmember Holden requested further information regarding the County's infrastructure RFP. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—JULY 8, 2024 2 City Administrator Perrault reported this plan was for the spine road, associated utilities and relocation of the TGRS system. Councilmember Holden questioned if the County would be finishing these plans to 100%. City Administrator Perrault explained this was correct. He indicated this was a two-year project. Councilmember Holden inquired if the City's infrastructure work was at 100%. City Administrator Perrault stated the final design for the City utility piece has to be completed. Councilmember Holden asked if the funding for this project was coming out of the City budget or the JDA budget. City Administrator Perrault stated this project would be County funded as there is no cooperative agreement in-place. Councilmember Holden questioned if the County would be issuing temporary bonds to pay for the site cleanup and grading. City Administrator Perrault explained the County was waiting on the temporary bonds until they hear from Bob Lux at Alatus. He stated there was much more of an openness for the County to carry the costs of the first round of infrastructure. Councilmember Holden asked how much would be issued in temporary bonds. City Administrator Perrault estimated this to be$40 million. Councilmember Holden reported if the County bonds for this project, the City would also have to bond for infrastructure improvements. She inquired what the timeline was for this project and who would cover the City if this project did not move forward. City Administrator Perrault stated this still has yet to be finalized. He reported the utilities under the spine road would be paid for through special assessments, WAC and SAC fees. Councilmember Holden expressed concern with the fact these lots may not be sold for some time and the City would need to cover the bond payments. City Administrator Perrault explained if the City moved forward with special assessments, payments would be made by the landowner, which would be either Alatus or the County. He stated he was uncertain if Alatus would be willing to be responsible for these payments. Councilmember Holden requested further information on the $5 million Alatus was willing to put down for site cleanup. City Administrator Perrault stated there was no agreement in writing, but noted Alatus has proposed to put $5 million in a holding account with the County. He indicated this would be the ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—JULY 8, 2024 3 first installment for mass grading and soil correction that was required for the land. He explained Bob Lux would then pay the remaining $35 million to the County within three years. Once this has been satisfied, the land would be transferred to Alatus. He reported Alatus was proposing to pay for the mass grading and soil correction and the County would then convey the land to Alatus. Councilmember Holden questioned if Alatus would provide the County with $5 million up front. City Administrator Perrault explained this would be the case. Councilmember Holden indicated this would mean the County would not have to bond for the $40 million. She asked if this expense would cover the spine road. City Administrator Perrault stated this expense would not include the spine road. Mayor Grant asked if the mass grading work would include the removal of the old telephone poles and remediation in the southwest corner. City Administrator Perrault explained the poles would be removed as part of the mass grading process. He assumed that any necessary remediation would take place at that time. Councilmember Holden inquired when the spine road would be installed. City Administrator Perrault stated Alatus would like to install the spine road and underground utilities along with the larger soil correction and grading project. He indicated the County would be responsible for paying for their portion of the spine road. Mayor Grant reported Alatus would be paying $40 million for this land and years ago Alatus had agreed to pay$62 million. City Administrator Perrault clarified he was speaking from 2017 and beyond. He noted the previously discussed $62 million was the value for the land sales and noted the $62 million was to be split between Alatus and the County. He explained Alatus would now be paying the $40 million in mass grading and soil corrections and could then sell the land for whatever price they deem necessary. Mayor Grant appreciated the fact there was no strike price in place for the land. Councilmember Fabel stated everything City Administrator Perrault has stated was somewhat speculative because nothing was in writing. Councilmember Holden indicated the City has been given information, even if it was speculative, she was allowed to ask questions. She noted at the $40 million price, Alatus would be paying a little more than $100,000 per acre for the land. She explained this was all taxpayer money and she didn't want taxpayers to be impacted in the rush to develop this land. Mayor Grant stated Outlot A sold for $12 million and it was 42 acres in size. He reported with the new information from Alatus and the County, it appears the remaining 380 acres was ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—JULY 8, 2024 4 proposed to sell for $40 million. He understood none of this was in writing, but these were details that were being discussed between the County and Alatus. 3. PUBLIC INQUIRIES/INFORMATIONAL Lynn Diaz, 1143 Ingerson Road, reported she was shopping when she received a frantic call from her son that her neighbor was in the process of building a shed near her yard. She rushed home and spoke to her neighbor. She explained her neighbor and the contractor told her the City said the shed was allowed if the neighbors didn't mind. She indicated the neighbor had not asked her or the other adjoining lot about the shed, and she minded. She explained the contractor stated he would ask for a variance later. She reported she contacted multiple people at the City, as well as the Planning Commission and a Councilmember. She understood that if this shed was not over 120 square feet a permit was not required and she was on her own. She explained she could not afford to pay thousands of dollars for a survey. However, she was able to get a metal detector in order to locate the property line stakes. She stated the City did then come out and inform the offending neighbor that he could not build his shed in that location. She reported she was very grateful for that. She commented she was before the Council to ask that the City find a better process for dealing with matters like this, instead of pitting neighbor against neighbor. She stated she was unsure what the proper answer was, but suggested the City purchase a metal detector that could be loaned out to residents who need to find their markers. She recommended all structures require a mini-building permit to ensure residents are informed of proper setback requirements. She recommended the City take some responsibility for enforcing its ordinances. In addition, she wanted a policy in place regarding lot markers. Carl Kuhl, Mounds View Irondale Youth Hockey Association, introduced himself to the Council and explained he was the new President of the hockey association. He reported this hockey association served youth from nine different communities and had roughly 750 enrolled players. He explained since the mid 1990's these players have utilized the Blaine Super Rink for ice time. He reported the hockey association used 812 hours of ice time last season at the Super Rink, and another 600 hours for its two tournaments. He stated it has been 25 years since the Super Rink was constructed and this facility was in need of renovations and upgrades. He reported the Mounds View Irondale Youth Hockey Association has been asked for $750,000 to assist with paying for these upgrades. He requested the City consider providing financial support as well. Elyse Farnsworth, 1487 Lametti Lane, reported she was a proud hockey mom and resident of Arden Hills. She stated she had two boys that played hockey for the Mounds View Irondale Youth Hockey Association. She urged the City Council to make a contribution to youth hockey. 4. RESPONSE TO PUBLIC INQUIRIES None. 5. PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS None. 6. STAFF COMMENTS A. Transportation Update ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—JULY 8, 2024 5 Public Works Director Swearingen reported the contractor would begin the reclamation and milling process tomorrow for the 2024 PMP Street and Utility Project. He encouraged residents to use caution when driving through the reconstruction area. Councilmember Holden asked if staff had any information on the Lindey's parking lot. Public Works Director Swearingen stated this project came in under budget and staff would continue to work with the County on the cost-sharing for this project. B. Night to Unite Update Assistant to the City Administrator/City Clerk Hanson stated Night to Unite would be held on Tuesday, August 6. She reported the City had 13 events registered with the City to date. She urged residents to get their events registered with the City by Friday, July 12 in order to ensure a visit from a local deputy. 7. APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. June 10, 2024, Special City Council Work Session B. June 10, 2024, Regular City Council MOTION: Councilmember Holden moved and Councilmember Fabel seconded a motion to approve the June 10, 2024, Special City Council Work Session minutes as amended and the June 10, 2024, Re;:ular City Council meeting minutes as amended. The motion carried 3-0-1 (Councilmember Rousseau abstained). 8. CONSENT CALENDAR A. Motion to Approve Consent Agenda Item - Claims and Payroll B. Motion To Approve Payment No. 2 — S.M. Hentges & Sons, Inc. — 2024 PMP Street And Utility Improvements Project G. Metien To n ppr- ve Quote From KleeStation No. i Rehabilitation Pr-ejeet D. Motion To Approve Hiring Of Deputy Clerk MOTION: Councilmember Holden moved and Councilmember Fabel seconded a motion to approve the Consent Calendar as amended and to authorize execution of all necessary documents contained therein. The motion carried (4-0). 9. PULLED CONSENT ITEMS A. Motion To Approve Quote From Electric Pump For Lift Station No. 2 Rehabilitation Project Mayor Grant stated it was his understanding this project was coming in over budget. He asked how far over budget this project was. Public Works Director/City Engineer Swearingen explained the project was over budget by approximately $30,000. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—JULY 8, 2024 6 Mayor Grant questioned how these costs would be covered. Finance Director Yang reported the overages would be absorbed by the Sanitary Sewer Fund balance. Mayor Grant inquired if any City equipment would be used to replace the electric pumps. Public Works Director/City Engineer Swearingen explained the contractor would be utilizing their own equipment for this work. MOTION: Councilmember Holden moved and Mayor Grant seconded a motion to Approve Quote From Electric Pump For Lift Station No. 2 Rehabilitation Project. The motion carried (4-0). 10. PUBLIC HEARINGS None. 11. NEW BUSINESS None. 12. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None. 13. COUNCIL COMMENTS Councilmember Rousseau explained last month she attended the League of Minnesota Cities Annual Conference. She commented on the sessions she attended and stated she wanted to learn more about the training sessions City staff attends on an annual basis. Councilmember Rousseau reported in the spring of last year she requested the Council discuss how to recognize volunteers. She indicated this matter was sent to the Personnel Committee. She requested the Council be provided an update on this matter. Mayor Grant explained the Personnel Committee would be meeting next at the end of July. Councilmember Rousseau stated she would like to see a Code of Conduct put in place, along with general procedures for commissioner/committee members. She recommended a Code of Conduct be put in place prior to any other youth members being appointed because she wanted this experience to be positive. Mayor Grant recommended this matter be reviewed by the City Council first prior to going to any of the committees or commissions to ensure the same set of standards were in place. Councilmember Fabel concurred a Code of Conduct should be put in place for the City's commissions and committees. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL —JULY 8, 2024 7 Councilmember Holden reported she understood the County did not receive any funding for Lake Johanna Boulevard. She requested staff send a formal letter to Ramsey County asking how they would be addressing the speed of traffic along this roadway. Public Works Director/City Engineer Swearingen explained he has met with the County regarding this matter and requested a memo. Councilmember Holden supported the City Council sending a letter to the County requesting an answer since staff was not having any luck. Mayor Grant asked if the Council could support the City sending a letter to the County. Councilmember Fabel stated he did not want this to become a political issue. He suggested a representative from the Sheriff's Office be asked to attend an upcoming worksession. Councilmember Holden reported the Sheriff's Office has been brought in to attend meetings and she understood they were handing out citations. But until bollards or some other measures were taken, the speed of traffic would continue to be a concern along Lake Johanna Boulevard. She indicated this was not a political issue, but rather was a safety matter that the County should be following up on. Councilmember Rousseau stated she would like to know what the timeline was for the County to implement these suggestions. She indicated she was also concerned that the County representative would not be available in the next five months. Mayor Grant reported the County stated if they did not get funding, they had some ideas to minimize speed on Lake Johanna Boulevard. He indicated the County did not receive funding and he wanted to learn more about the County's ideas and when they can be implemented in order to improve safety along this corridor. Public Works Director/City Engineer Swearingen explained following the meeting staff had with the County, he understood the County wanted to be thoughtful in drafting their memo because they would be implementing practices that were not typically done on County roadways. He noted he would be meeting with Ramsey County again on Wednesday and he could ask again on the memo. Councilmember Holden indicated she asked for an update from the County six weeks ago. Mayor Grant requested staff make the County aware this matter came up at a City Council meeting and explain that the Council was concerned about traffic safety along Lake Johanna Boulevard. Councilmember Holden asked if sheds were supposed to be 10 feet from lot lines. Community Development Director Jagoe reported this was the case. Councilmember Holden reported she also attended the League of Minnesota Cities Annual Conference where she spoke with former City Administrator Michelle Wolfe. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—JULY 8, 2024 8 Councilmember Holden questioned when the Council would be receiving an update from the PTRC. Councilmember Rousseau reported the PTRC canceled their last meeting, which would have been a park tour and this group has yet to reschedule this meeting. Councilmember Holden supported the Council discussing a Code of Conduct but noted pp g democracy was not always perfect or pretty. People need to see that people disagree and then people come to conclusions. She encouraged the Council to use common decency from the bench. Mayor Grant stated the fire station requested federal government funding in the amount of$6 million. He understood this request was cut to $3 million, but was still moving forward for consideration. Mayor Grant explained the City was in the application process with Xcel Energy for their Partners in Energy program. He discussed how he and Councilmember Monson would like to move this program forward. The Council supported this action. Mayor Grant reported he met with the mayors and administrators from the neighboring eight communities today in Little Canada. Mayor Grant commented on the "No Parking" signs that were posted near Valentine Hills Elementary. He explained garbage bags have been placed over these signs. He requested staff remove the garbage bags. ADJOURN MOTION: Councilmember Holden moved and Councilmember Rousseau seconded a motion to adiourn. The motion carried (4-0). Mayor Grant adjourned the Regular City Council Meeting at 7:54 p.m. r L e Hanson David Grant y Clerk Mayor