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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC 01-31-2000 . . . MINUTES CITY OF ARDEN HILLS, MINNESOTA CITY COUNCIL MEETING JANUARY 31, 2000 7:30 P,M. - ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS CALL TO ORDERlROLL CALL Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, Mayor Dennis Probst called to order the regular City Council meeting at 7:33 p,m, Present: Mayor Dennis Probst, Councilmembers Beverly Aplikowski, David Grant, Gregg Larson, and Lois Rem. Absent: None, Also present were City Administrator, Joe Lynch; Public Works Director, Dwayne Stafford; Associate Planner, Nancy Randall; Parks and Recreation Director, Thomas J, Moore; Recreation Program Supervisor, Michelle Olson; and City Engineer, Greg Brown, BRW; and Recording Secretary, Lori Rolfson. ADOPT AGENDA MOTION: Councilmember Grant moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to adopt the agenda for the January 31, 2000, regular City Council meeting. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. December 13, 1999 Regular Council Meeting B, December 30,1999 Council Worksession C. January 3, 2000 Organizational Council Meeting D, January 10, 2000 Regular Council Meeting E. January 18, 2000 Council Worksession Mr. Lynch requested that on page three of the January 18,2000 minutes, the third paragraph, beginning with the eighth line, be amended to read, "",it's recommendation to the City Council; the financial impacts of alternatives being considered;Jhe final per foot assessment cost if Hamline is deleted; and concerns about its MSA funding status," Councilmember Grant stated that on page II of the January 10, 2000 minutes the curb and gutter cost should be corrected to $8 per foot. Councilmember Larson stated that with regard to page two of the December 20, 1999 minutes, last line of the third paragraph under item b, he was not certain that this sentence was phrased appropriately. Councilmember Aplikowski stated that the wording ofthis sentence accurately reflected the discussions at the Worksession, Councilmember Larson agreed, however, he was not certain that the term "take control of the fields" was appropriate, He did not believe that the City could take control of the soccer fields and felt that this statement gave the wrong impression ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 2 . of the concerns the City has with participating in the use of the Presbyterian Homes soccer fields, He asked that staff reword this sentence, Councilmember Larson requested the following additional changes: On page five of the January 18, 2000 minutes, second paragraph under Council Comments, the last line should read, ",..previously served as Chief of the Volunteer Fire Department,..," At the bottom of this page the line "GL - island for safety at crosswalk" was referring to a comment he made regarding the safety of the crosswalk, however, the statement was not translated into the minutes, He asked that this line be eliminated, On page six of the January 10,2000 minutes, second paragraph under item A, the word "take" should be deleted from the last line, On page 19, the second paragraph from the bottom is a repeat of the third paragraph from the bottom and should be deleted, In the last paragraph of page 19, the name "Mr. Freeman" should be changed to "Mr, Freimuth", Councilmember Rem requested the following changes: On page three of the December 20, 1999 minutes, fourth paragraph, last sentence, the words "for bidding and construction purposes," should be removed, She did not believe that the City Council would be sending the final design out for bids. Mayor Probst noted that the City Council would authorize the project for the final design, Councilmember Rem stated that it had been her understanding that the City was still trying to negotiate with Ramsey County for a final solution ofthe Highway 96 project. . On page 23 ofthe January 10, 2000 minutes, second paragraph from the bottom, the statement "as the City Council had previously discussed" should be added to the end of the last sentence, With regard to page two of the January 18, 2000 minutes, first paragraph, Councilmember Rem stated that the City Council had discussed making an offer to the property owner and asked that this be added to this paragraph, MOTION: Councilmember Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Rem seconded a motion to approve the minutes ofthe December 13, 1999 Regular Council Meeting and January 3, 2000 Organizational Council Meeting, as submitted, and the minutes of the December 30,1999 Council Worksession, January 10,2000 Regular Council Meeting, and January 18,2000 Council Worksession, as amended, The motion carried unanimously (5-0). CONSENT CALENDAR A. Claims and Payroll R Resolution #00-07, Approving Charitable Gambling Premises Pennit Renewal Application, Light Brigade at the Blue Fox C. Resolution #00-08, Approving Charitable Gambling Premises Permit Renewal Application, 621 Foundation at Pot-O-Gold Bingo . MOTION: Councilmember Larson moved and Councilmember Grant seconded a motion to approve the Consent Calendar and authorize execution of all necessary documents contained therein, The motion carried unanimously (5-0), ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 3 . PUBLIC COMMENTS Mayor Probst invited those present to come forward and address the Council on any items not already on the agenda. There were no public comments, UNFINISHED AND NEW BUSINESS A. 2000 Street Improvement Project Discussion Mayor Probst stated that at the January 10, 2000 Council meeting, the City Council voted to continue the discussions of the Ingerson neighborhood road improvement project. The Council left that meeting with the notion that - they were not prepared to make a final decision regarding the 2000 Street Improvement Project. He suggested that the first issue to decide this evening was whether the City will attempt to proceed with a project in the Ingerson neighborhood and, if so, how to proceed. He believed that there had been a general consensus that the Council was not plamling to proceed as outlined in the Feasibility Report as there had been a number of issues raised, Additionally, other options had been presented for this project. Mayor Probst noted that the City had changed direction in the Pavement Management Program trom annual reconstruction of the worst streets first to a biennial neighborhood reconstruction process, If the decision is made to move forward with the Ingerson neighborhood, which he would support, the process needs to be outlined, . Councilmember Aplikowski stated that she was undecided on whether the Council should choose to perform the project since it cannot proceed as currently proposed, She was not certain if she was opposed to the entire project, or ifthe project should be removed from consideration, At this point, she was more in favor of dropping the project completely as opposed to moving forward with an alternative proposal. Councilmember Grant stated that there were a number of items within the current proposal that he would change, He was not comfortable witll moving forward with the current design and felt that the City needed to establish a process ifit does intend to continue consideration of the neighborhood, Even if the City chooses not to move forward with thc Ingerson neighborhood, he felt that a group should be organized with the residents, City staff and Councilmembers to review how these road improvement projects are brought forth. Councilmember Rem stated that she was in favor of establishing a Task Force to analyze the current proj ect. She agreed that the City should not move forward with the current design proposal. However, with the amount of work that has been put into the project, she felt that a Task Force should be established in order to determine what will and will not work for the neighborhood, as well as determine how the current process could be improved, . Councilmember Larson stated that the City currently has a feasibility study with possible alternatives, Many residents have provided the City Council with opinions on how the alternatives may be changed, as well as new ideas. The residents have also asked for additional time to consider what should be done. He did not feel comfortable at this point with abandoning the reconstruction of the project, The City Engineer has prioritized future work and the Ingerson . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 4 neighborhood was a high priority for reconstruction for good reasons, He felt that the proposed reconstruction design must be changed, He was supportive of the notion that the residents, City staff and Council review this project over the next few months in order to amend the proposal and make it more amenable to the neighborhood, Mayor Probst agreed that the City should attempt to move forward with this project. He indicated that the City Council has a responsibility to the residents of the community to maintain the existing infrastructure, He noted that the City of Arden Hills has approximately 30 miles of roadway which cost approximately one million dollars per mile to reconstruct. The City has not been and will not be on a program that allows the City to perform the reconstruction in an ideal way, The City performs its reconstruction projects as best it can using available funds, Mayor Probst stated that the City's Pavement Management Program has been in place for approximately 10 years, Historically, the City has used a worst first approach to repairing streets with one street in a neighborhood being reconstructed one year and another street in the same neighborhood the following year, This has resulted in construction equipment being in a neighborhood for multiple years and different assessment rates for residents living next door to each other. The City also must deal with the storm drainage issues in the community. The City currently does not have a storm drainage system and this has not been dealt with comprehensively under the worst street first approach, These issues led the City to believe that dealing with street improvements on a neighborhood basis made more sense, Mayor Probst agreed that the decision had been made to begin with the Ingerson neighborhood for all the right reasons. Therefore, the City should continue looking for a way to make this project happen in a way that works for all those involved. Many details need to be determined, such as whether the project should be accomplished comprehensively or performed over several years, He felt that the best way to determine how to proceed would be with fhe establishment of a Task Force to work with the City staff and Engineer. He suggested that the City appoint the Task Force, set up the first meeting and allow the Task Force to establish additional meetings, Since the City will not be able to tackle the Ingerson neighborhood project in 2000, the goal should be to begin work in 2001, Councilmember Aplikowski asked if the Task Force would be made up of residents only and if the purpose ofthe Task Force would be to work on the design of the Ingerson neighborhood reconstruction project or to determine a process, Mayor Probst stated after going through this process he hoped that the City would learn from it and use it globally in other neighborhood projects, With regard to the members of the Task Force, he felt that it should include residents of the neighborhood as well as other individuals, such as members of the Operations and Finance Committee, He was not proposing that the Council attempt to appoint the Task Force this evening and he invited those interested in the Task Force to contact City staff He suggested that at the next City Council meeting the Council formally appoint the members of the Task Force, Councilmember Aplikowski stated that the Task Force should be made up of no more than 15 members including representatives of the neighborhood, City staff and CounciL ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31,2000 5 . MOTION: Councilmember ApIikowski moved and Councilmember Grant seconded a motion to direct staffto establish a Task Force of no more than 15 members including representatives of the neighborhood, City staff and Council. Mayor Probst clarified that the motion was for a Task Force to be put in place to look into the development of a reconstruction project of the Ingerson neighborhood. Councilmember Aplikowski agreed that the intent of the Task Force would be to discuss options or alternative designs for the neighborhood, She was willing to amend her motion if other Councilmembers felt that there should be more than IS members on the Task Force, However, she felt that more than 15 members would be ineffective, Councilmember Grant stated that involvement from the community was importanL He felt that the Task Force should consider the process for future proj ects as well. Council member Aplikowski stated that she was troubled with charging the Task Force with this responsibility, She suggested that once the Task Force has accomplished its goal for the Ingerson neighborhood, the City should then reconsider tile entire process, Mayor Probst opened the meeting up to public comments, Mr. Jim Cox, 1287 Ingerson Road, was opposed to the project because of the amount of money being proposed for road reconstruction, He believes that when Ramsey County turned Ingerson A venue back to Arden Hills the road was to be usable for 10 to 12 more years, He felt that the . $2 million proposed to be spent on the Ingerson neighborhood could be better spent elsewhere, Ms, Linda Swanson, 1124 Ingerson Road, presented a letter on behalf of the neighborhood core group for consideration, reiterating the comments and concerns discussed by the residents at the January 10, 2000 Public Hearing. The residents request that a motion be made and passed that the Council postpone the Ingerson neighborhood roadway project and form a Task Force comprised of residents, City staff and a Councilmember, to evaluate the Ingerson neighborhood project and all related issues. Ms, Swanson noted that she had attended the last Council worksession and it had been discussed whether one Councilmember should be appointed to the Task Force, or if the Councilmember appointment should be rotated, She felt that a rotating appointment of Councilmembers will affect the continuity and consistency of the Task Force and asked that, if a Task Force is formed, only one Councilmember be appointed, . Mr, Eric Lucht, 1315 Ingerson Road, asked how the Task Force will be managed and if the decisions of the Task Force will be binding, Mayor Probst stated that the City Council will consider the recommendations of the Task Force and will make the final decisions. Mr. Lucht asked if the decision made this evening regarding who will be appointed to the Task Force would be final. Mayor Probst stated that the Council will not be appointing the Task Force this evening, The intent was for those who are interested to express their interest to the City staff. He noted that the motion on the table was for no more than 15 members and if more than this number were interested in being appointed to the Task Force, decisions will need to be made on whom to appoinL ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 6 . Ms, Margorie Alexander, 3251 Fernwood Street, asked if the soil borings currently being done in her neighborhood were related to the proposed road reconstrnction project. Mayor Probst stated that this was correct, He indicated that the soil borings were part of the information gathering process in order to make a decision regarding the pavement structure. He added that survey crews will soon be working in the neighborhood to locate the roadway and assess the situation with the trees to determine what the impacts of the project will be, Ms, Alexander asked if the information gathered through this process will be shared with the Task Force, Mayor Probst stated that it will be, Mr. Wally Lindquist, 1100 Ingerson Road, expressed concern that two of the Councilmembers are in favor of moving forward with the project, while three others may feel it unnecessary to continue with the project. Since soil borings are being done now, he asked if the Task Force will have anything to consider since the actual condition of the roadway is unknown at this time, He was concerned about spending more money on a project that the City may not move forward with. Mayor Probst stated that he had questioned whether the neighborhood was opposed to the project for financial reasons, or if the neighbors did not approve of the details of the proposal. He had been led to believe that there was an interest in an improvement project in this neighborhood, but not as proposed, The motion on the table was to continue to evaluate the project in order to find a way to proceed, The only way to evaluate the project and resolve some of the issues is to . perform the work being done which will cost more money, Mr. Doug Hartford, 1292 Ingerson Road, supported the direction of the Council. He was concerned about the speed at which this proposal was made, He suggested that the next time the City accepts a road back from Ramsey County, the actual condition of the roadway be agreed upon, Councilmember Aplikowski noted that when Ingerson Road was turned back to the City, Ramsey County had not planned to construct a drainage system, Mr. Willheim Reinhold, 1233 Ingerson Avenue, was not convinced that it was truly necessary to proceed with the proposed improvement project. He felt that the first priority of the Task Force should be to determine the necessity of the project. With regard to the issues of drainage, he felt that alternatives that will not impact the roadway should be considered, Ms, Lynn Diaz, 1143 Ingerson Road, requested clarification on what the Task Force will be charged with and what the timetable is, She felt that sufficient time was needed in order to collect enough data to make an informed decision, The Rice Creek Watershed District informed her that in order to determine the water quality, the area must be monitored over a full spring- summer season, She indicated that the equipment used to monitor the water quality would cost the City $10,000 and she suggested that the City consider this investment in order to perform water quality tests in all neighborhoods prior to reconstruction proposals, . Mayor Probst stated that the intent of the Task Force will be a function of where the Task Force chooses to go with these discussions, He hoped that the basic direction of the Task Force will be to look at the nature of the streets and discnss some of issues that exist in the neighborhood, He noted that comments had been made that there are no drainage issues within the neighborhood, ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 7 . However, the City has received complaints from residents of the neighborhood about problems with drainage, It is recognized that water destroys streets and this needs to be addressed in a comprehensive manner. Councilmember Grant requested that the motion be restated, The Recording Secretary restated the motion. Councilmember Grant requested clarification regarding the scope of authority that the Task Force will be given, He noted there were concerns regarding the timing and some Councilmembers would like to see the project begin in 2000, while others are uncertain when the project should be done. He felt that if a Task Force is formed, the Council should define the expectations of that Task Force, Councilmember Aplikowski stated that her original motion did not set a timeline for the Task Force, The motion simply stated that a Task Force should be formed with no more than 15 members including a mixture of City staff, Council representation and residents of the neighborhood, The intent of the Task Force would be to address the road improvement issues, Once the motion is voted on and it is decided whether or not to form the Task Force, then the expectations of the Task Force can be determined, Mayor Probst noted that the purpose behind forming a Task Force was that the City has a Pavement Management Program that the City wishes to continue with and this neighborhood was where the City would like to begin, The purpose ofthe Task Force will be to figure out how to go about doing that The Task Force should attempt to complete its work in order for there to be . a chance of accomplishing the improvements in 2001, Mr. Cox stated that a number of individuals were questioning the judgment and the mechanics of the Pavement Management Program, He noted that the City of Mounds View researches projects for three years in order to determine the validity of the process, He stated that a great deal of information had been brought forward that questioned the validity of the proposal. He felt that the purpose ofthe Task Force should be to challenge and question the judgment ofthe City Council and Mayor. Councilmember Aplikowski stated that this was not the intent of her motion, Her motion was to form a Task Force to look at whether or not this project is feasible, Ms, Joanne Fritz, 1119lngerson Road, suggested that the purpose of the Task Force be to determine the necessity of the project, not the feasibility, Mayor Probst stated that the City Council believed that there was a demonstrated need to improve this neighborhood based on the review done by the City Engineer at the direction of the Council. This neighborhood was identified as a top priority in terms of having the greatest need, Ms, Therese King, Executive Director representing the nonprofit organization, Little Brothers, Friends of the Elderly, stated that there was a question about the necessity of the project and she supported taking a step back to determine this, . Mr, Steve Freimuth, 1200 Ingerson Road, noted that the City has a street improvement program, however, the residents of this neighborhood were more interested in a street maintenance program, He felt that most residents want the existing streets maintained in a cost effective mauner. He felt that the Task Force should be charged with deciding whether the streets should be improved or simply maintained, ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 8 . Ms, Chris Peterson, 1112 Carlton Drive, commended the Council for deciding to form a Task Force to continue with the proposed project. Ms, Lcslie Reinhold, 1233 Ingerson Road, stated that many complaints made to the City regarding drainage problems might be issues with drainage in the backyards, not on the street She stated that she has a tremendous drainage problem in her backyard which occurs only in the spring time, She stated that the neighbors along Ingerson Avenue discussed this issue with the City Council approximately five years ago and were given no direction on how to improve the drainage, Ms. Dotie Boike, 1295 Ingerson Road, stated that she supported the motion made by the Council. However, she was concerned that the Task Force would not have the power to solve the problems. She asked if the Council would agree as part of the motion to accept the recommendation of the Task Force, Mayor Probst stated that there was an issue regarding whether or not the Council can cede to the Task Force the authority to make a decision to spend the amount of money involved with this project He stated that the Task Force can make a recommendation that will be heard at the Council level, however, the Council cannot allow the Task Force to take on the responsibility of making I1nal decisions regarding such large sums of money, . Mr. Harold Alexander, 3251 Fernwood Street, was concerned regarding the statement that the City has an ongoing Pavement Management Project It had also been stated that this was the first project. He was also concerned about why soil borings were being taken when a Task Force has not yet been formed to determine the necessity of the project Mayor Probst stated that a number of questions had been raised by the neighborhood that cannot be answered without gathering additional information, Ms, Swanson asked when the Task Force must complete its evaluation of the proposal if the intent was for a project to be accomplished in 2000, Mayor Probst stated that in order to accomplish a project in 2001, the City would have to direct the Engineer to proceed with plans and specifications in October or November 01'2000, Ms, Kay Stedman, 1164 Ingerson Road, noted that the idea ofthe Task Force looking into how to improve the process has not been discussed any further. She asked ifthis would still be a responsibility of the Task Force, Councilmember Aplikowski stated that this was not part of her motion because the sentiment of the neighborhood was to take a step back and take another look at the project She stated that her motion was for the Task Force to review the project in order to determine whether the City should move forward with a modified project She felt that the idea of revamping the process was a broader issue and she did not believe it should be the responsibility of only one neighborhood. . Ms, Stedman noted that the City has a plan to widen all its streets to 32 feet and asked if this can be taken into consideration by the Task Fore. Mayor Probst stated that work is being done to consider alternate street widths, . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 9 Mayor Probst noted that the motion currently on the table was to move forward with the appointment ofa Task Force of no more than 15 members comprised of residents, City staff and Council. Councilmember Aplikowski added that the intent ofthe Task Force was to look into the Ingerson neighborhood road improvement project, Councilmember Larson noted that the word "project" was being used in a variety of ways. However, the City does not technically have a project at this time, The City has a feasibility study ,vith a number of alternatives such as whether to include ponds for storm water retention; whether to close a portion of Hamline A venue; and whether or not to widen the streets to 32 feet, etc, At this time, decisions have not been made regarding these alternatives and the intent of the Task Force should be to consider these alternative and make a recommendation to the City Council. The motion carried unanimously (5-0), Mayor Probst invited those who were interested in serving on the Task Force to provide Mr. Lynch with their names prior to February 10,2000 in order for appointments to be made at the January 14,2000 City Council meeting, Mayor Probst called a brief recess at 8:45 p,m. and reconvened the meeting at 8:48 p,m, B. Planning Cases 1. Case #00-01, Bethel College, 3900 Bethel Drive, Special Use Permit Amendment (Master Plan), and Site Plan Approval for Recreational Area Ms, Randall explained that the applicant was requesting approval of an amendment to their special use permit for Bethel College by updating the Master Plan, and Site Plan approval for an athletic complex, Ms, Randall presented Bethel College's current Master Plan and indicated that the southwest portion across Highway 10 was not included in the original Master Plan, The Master Plan will need to be updated with this property being added, The Special Use Permit recorded document was last modified in 1978 with Planning Case 78-05, The Special Use Permit has been modified throughout the years without modifYing the recorded document. Staff recommends a new Special Use Permit be recorded with this Planning Case for the following reasons: 1, The legal description has changed with the addition of the proposed athletic fields area across Highway 10, 2, Existing conditions with past Planning Cases should be incorporated, Other updates to the Master Plan that would be required included feature changes which have been accomplished through minor amendments, These included changing the tennis courts to a parking area, as well as showing the proposed use in the Site Plan portion of the approval for the athletic complex, . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 10 The athletic complex was proposed to include a parking lot with 41 parking spaces, six tennis courts, a softball field and two (2) soccer fields, Because one of the soccer fields overlap the softball field, it will not be possible to use both soccer fields to be used at the same time, The proposal meets the parking requirements of the Special Use Permit. The proposed Master Plan and Site Plan show 41 additional spaces to be located on the west athletic complex. The City Zoning Ordinance does not state the exact nmber of parking spaces that the athletic facility will need, The City of Arden Hills currently has a grass cut trail that enters across the Bethel College property, The City owns the property along the west side of the Bethel property for the trail, however, when the trail was constructed it was not all placed on City property, Staff has reviewed the existing trail and recommends the trail remain in its current location (except for a slight modification around the proposed tennis courts), Relocating the trail to the City property location would require removal of trees, Bethel College has stated that they are comfortable with the trail remaining on their property, Staff would recommend a trail easement be drafted by Bethel College and granted to the City for the trail to remain in approximately the same location, Mayor Probst requested confirmation that the property on which the trail was originally to be located was City owned property, Ms. Randall stated that this was correct. She explained that the property was dedicated as part of the Chatham park dedication, Ms, Randall stated that the proposed west athletic field complex proposes a waterline to service the area for sprinklers, Staff would recommend the sanitary sewer be extended and the bathrooms be changed to a permanent structure, They are currently proposing temporary bathrooms, The applicant obtained Rice Creek Watershed District approval for grading on December 22, 1999, At direction of the Rice Creek Watershed District the storage building has been slightly moved, Mayor Probst asked if the storage building would contain the temporary bathrooms, Ms, Randall stated that the temporary bathrooms would be located next to the storage building with a wall to screen the facilities, The bathrooms will be visible from the parking lot. The applicant has notified staff that they would like to add a 95 square foot building similar to the softball field dugouts for the storage of tennis equipment, Staff does not see any concerns with this addition, On the original plan submitted by the applicant the entry way did not line up properly with Bethel Drive, The applicant intends to line up the driveway for Bethel Drive with the driveway to the new athletic complex, The applicant has proposed a walk over bridge that crossed the ditch that would line up with the existing sidewalk across the street. The bridge is necessary in order to accommodate the existing drainage, . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 11 Issues which were discussed by the Planning Commission included the lighting of the parking lot and the intersection at the entrance to the complex, The Planning Commission recommended that a revised lighting plan be submitted for the parking facility providing options for lower lighting, for final review by the City CounciL The applicant has submitted to stafftwo altcrnative lighting plans, The original plan showed four poles with shoe box fixtures on each at 30 feet in height All three plans meet the light ordnance, The first alternative is a 20-foot pole with a three foot footing, These poles would be in the same location as the original proposaL The second option is a 12 foot pole with a three foot footing, This requires 15 poles, The applicant prefers the 20 foot pole option, The lights would only be used to illuminate the parking lot during evening hours, The applicant has agreed to the Planning Commission's recommendation that the lights be controlled by timers to turn on after dusk and off an hour later. Mayor Probst asked what the ground elevation change was between the residential properties and the parking lot, Ms, Randall stated that the elevation change was five feet With regard to the City lighting standards, Councilmember Larson confirmed that there was not a minimum requirement, only a maximum requirement Ms, Randall stated that this was correct Councilmember Larson asked if there was a threshold that must be met with regard to lighting that must be provided, Ms, Randall stated that there was not She indicated that the maximum lighting standards are based on the amount of lumens at the property line, The applicant's proposal included the lumen measurements at the City property line and this will meet the Ordinance, Councilmember Grant asked what the elevation difference will be between the 20-foot pole lights and the residential properties, Mr. Jay Pomeroy, Project Design Engineer for Bethel College, stated that the elevation difference was 20 feet Ms, Randall noted that the light poles would be a total of23 feet taiL Councilmember Grant wanted to confirm that the tennis courts will screen the light fixtures along the drive, Mr. Pomeroy stated that this was correct, Ms, Randall stated that Bethel College, Ramsey County Public Works, and City staff met to discuses traffic issues that were brought up at the Planning Commission meeting, Ms, Randall prcsented the design of the intersection as proposed by Ramsey County, The proposed design did not include a southbound right turn lane into the complex, The original discussion regarding this intersection determined that by eliminating this turn lane it would make a safer pedestrian crossing by reducing the number oflanes that must be crossed, Additionally, Ramsey County did not feel the turn lane was warranted with thc traffic load that a 41 parking space facility would generate, Staff indicated that Ramsey County would be open to a southbound right turn lane into the athletic facility, There was also some discussion about signs and traffic signals, Pedestrian crossing signs would be required as part of the project. Signals or flashing lights could be added, however, they are not advised by Ramsey County at this time, . Ms, Randall indicatcd that letters in support of this project were received from the North Suburban Soccer Association, Mr. Michael Coopct had provided the City with a copy of a letter ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 3 I 2000 , 12 . he sent to the Rice Creek Watershed District. A letter was received from Mr. Derrick Hames expressing concerns with the project and from Mr. Bob Sundquist in support of the project. Ms, Randall advised that the Planning Commission recommended approval of Planning Case #00-01, Special Use Permit amendment and Site Plan Review, subject to the following conditions: I. Execution oCa new Special Use Permit Document 00-01. 2, Dedication of a trail easement for the existing trail to be prepared and recorded by the applicant and approved by staff. 3, Compliance with the height ordinance for structures, 4, Compliance with requirements ofthe Shoreland Management regulations, 5, Rice Creek Watershed District approval. 6, Compliance with the Lighting standards of the Zoning Ordinance, 7, No lighting be erected for the ball fields and tennis courts, 8. The sewer be extended and the bathrooms be changed to a permanent structure. 9, Add six pine trees at 45 degree angles to each other on the City property, east of the seven pinkspire crabapple trees, 10. The parking lot lights be controlled by a timer and be turned off one hour after sunset. I I, The applicant provide staff with a revised lighting plan for the parking facility providing options for lower lighting, for final review by the City Council. 12, Review the turn lane requirements with Ramsey County, . Mayor Probst asked what the setback was between the tennis courts and the residential property line, Ms, Randall stated that there was a 50 foot side yard setback between the residential property line to the fence surrounding the tennis courts, She noted that due to the odd shape the lot does not have four sides and staff had determined the front, rear and sides of the property, Councilmember Grant requested additional inforn1ation regarding the tennis court storage facility, Ms, Randall explained that the applicant was requesting a small building to be located in the corner of the tennis courts, This building will house equipment such as the tennis ball machines and balls, etc, She noted that this building was added to the plan after the Planning Commission meeting. With regard to the proposed traffic lane design, Councilmember Larson requested confirmation that northbound traffic will be reduced to one lane after the Bethel Drive intersection, Ms, Randall stated that this was correct. Councilmember Larson noted that at some point beyond the intersection the road widens into two lanes, Additionally, the two southbound lanes will be reduced to one lane, He asked where these merges will take place, Ms. Randall stated that the northbound lane would be a single lane from the intersection to McCracken Lane, at which point it will widen to two lanes. Councilmember Larson expressed concern that there may be a great deal of traffic weaving in this area, . Ms, Randall stated that there will be two southbound lanes from Lake Valentine Road to the Bethel Drive intersection, The left hand lane will become a designated turn lane onto Bethel Drive and the right lane will continue forward to McCracken Lane where it returns to two lanes, ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 13 . Councilmember Larson asked if Ramsey County had supplied the City with a map of the traffic lanes north of the Bethel College intersection, Ms, Randall stated that discussions of these plans had taken place with Ramsey County prior to her being hired by the City, This was one reason she met with the County in order to determine how the plans had reached this point. Councilmember Larson stated that he was having trouble visualizing how the lane changes will occur, Ms. Randall stated that the goal was to eliminate the gucss work that currently must be done. She indicated that traffic often assumes that the left lane is a turn lane into Bethel College and the intent of the County was to designate the left lane as a turn lane. She noted that the southbound shoulder will be paved in order to allow it to be used if necessary to turn into the athletic facility, Councilmember Larson asked how the applicant intended to landscape the areas that will not be used for athletic fields, He noted that there was currently an open area between the proposed ball fields and Old Snelling Avenue and asked if this area will be a maintained lawn. Ms, Randall suggested that the applicant address this question. She indicated that the City portion of the property will be left natural, with the exception of the mowed traiL Councilmember Larson asked where the wetland mitigation will occur. Ms. Randall stated that the wetland mitigation will occur in a small area in the center of the property, Councilmember Larson asked where this wetland will be mitigated to, Mr. Pomeroy stated that approximately 2,500 square feet will be removed and relocated to the existing wetland area in the southeast . portion of the property, Councilmember Larson noted that staff had indicated that tlle athletic fields will not be lit at this time and an amendment to the special usc permit would be required to light them in the future. He confirmed that although thc current special use permit would not allow the fields to be lit, therc would be nothing to prevent the applicant from requesting to light them in the future, Ms. Randall stated that this was correct and that it would require an amendment to the special use pernlit and a public hearing. Councilmember Larson asked if Bethel College had plans to light the fields at some point. Ms. Randall stated that Bethel College does not intent to light the fields, She indicated that there were other fields on campus that have not been lit for many years, Councilmember Rem stated that she too was having difficulty in visualizing the proposed traffic lanes, She asked if the restriping will be done by Ramsey County in conjU1lction with the construction ofthc athletic complex, Ms, Randall stated that much of the work will be accomplished by Bethel College U1lder the direction of Ramsey County, She indicated that the details of responsibility have not yet been determined between Bethel College and Ramsey County. It was her understanding that Bethel College will be responsible for adding the pavement to the southbound lane and removing the existing striping and Ramsey County will perform the restriping according to their design, With regard to the timing of thc restriping, Ms, Randall stated that this will be accomplished in conjunction witll the construction project. She indicatcd that much of the road work will be donc prior to the construction of the facilities, . Councilmember Rem stated that, although it made more sense for the left lanes to be designated turn lanes, she found it difficult to visualize how the traffic flow will work, Ms, Randall stated the Ramsey County had plans for the entire stretch of roadway, ineluding thc Bethel College ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 14 . intersection, She stated that one intent was to reduce the width of the road at the bridge due to the narrowness of the bridge, Councilmember Aplikowski stated that the northbound lane shift from one lane to two should occur at McCrackcn Road to avoid traffic build up, Mayor Probst stated that the City could ask Ramsey County to prcsent their plans for the entire roadway, Ms, Randall suggested that a Ramsey County representative be invited to a future meeting or to supply more information regarding the entire road, She stated that Ramsey County intends to eventually widen the underpass bridge to two lanes, However, this may not be feasible within the next few years, Therefore the County was attempting to deal with the existing traffic that must pass under the bridge in the safest possible manner. Mayor Probst noted that the widening of the bridge underpass was not in the County's current five year program, Ms, Randall concurred, Mayor Probst requested additional information regarding the proposed landscaping and screening, Ms. Randall stated that the landscape plan included additional trees along the telmis courts and parking area, The pines proposed along the tennis courts range from seven to nine feet in height. The plan also included seven pinkspire crabapple trees to be placed along the parking lot. Staff recommended adding additional pines at 45 degree angles to each other on the City property to screen the parking lot from the residents, Mayor Probst confirmed that there was a significant elevation difference between the parking lot and the residential properties, Ms. Randall stated that this was correct. . Councilmember Larson asked if a landscape plan was available showing the number of trees that will be added, Ms, Randall stated that a form was available which provided the layout of the trees, Mayor Probst asked if the applicant was agreeable to the 12 conditions as recommended by the Planning Commission, Mr. Bruce Kunkel, Vice President for Campus Services, Bethel College, stated that Bethel College was agreeable to all conditions but number eight which required the construction of permanent bathrooms, He indicated that Bethel College's use of the facility will occur two months in the spring and during the fall season and he felt that the cost to construct permanent bathrooms would be excessive for the limited use, He understood that the City hoped to use the facility for its summer Parks and Recreation programs and Bethel College would prefer not to pay for a bathroom for use by the City's programs, He added tllat he had a landscape plan available which was presented by Mr. Pomeroy, Councilmember Grant confirmed that the trail easement along the tennis courts will be located on Bethel property, not City property. Ms, Randall stated that this was correct. She indicated that the trail will remain close to its current location, however, it will need to be corrected in an area that the trail crosses residential property, Councilmember Grant requested confirmation that there was enough room for the trail and that no trees will have to be removed, Ms, Randall stated that this was correct. She indicated that the portion of trail that must be moved is located in a clearing and will moved approximately 20 teet. . Mr. Pomeroy stated that due to some grade changes some trees will be removed in the area between the tennis courts and the City property, No trees will be removed from the City ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 15 . property, Councilmember Grant noted that there was a buffer of mature trees between the tennis courts and the residential properties that he would prefer to remain, Ms, Randall stated that the majority of these trees are located on the City property and none of them will be removed, She noted that if the trail was relocated to its original location, some trees would have to be removed, Councilmember Grant asked if the parking lot will require a Bethel College parking permit Mr. Kunkel stated that this was correct Councilmember Grant asked ifthe parking permit would be enforced year-round, Mr. Kunkel stated that Bethel College may be willing to make some exceptions, With regard to the requirement of permanent bathrooms, Councilmember Aplikowski asked if the City used temporary bathrooms in its parks, Mr. Moore stated that of all the City parks only one has permanent bathroom facilities and the rest have temporary facilities, Councilmember Aplikowski asked if the parking lot would be open to City functions without a permit requirement Mr. Kunkel stated that this would be possible, Councilmember Larson asked if the entrance to the parking lot will be gated, Ms, Randall stated that it will be, Councilmember Larson asked ifthe gate will be elosed and locked when the facilities are not in use or if students will be allowed to park in the lot during the day. Mr. Kunkel stated that student parking would be allowed in the parking lot, however, he did not feel that this would make sense since there is sufficient parking on campus, . Mr. Kunkel stated that the intent would be to gate off the facility during the winter months, Bethel College may occasionally plow the parking lot and use it for overtlow parking, Councilmember Larson wanted to confirm that Bethel College did not intend to light the hall fields in the future, Mr. Kwlkel stated that he did not envision Bethel College requesting lights for the fields since it does not currently hold night games, However, he could not be certain what will occur 30 years from now, Councilmember Larson asked if the open areas of the property will remain natural or be landscaped, Mr. Pomeroy stated that due to the slope between the ball fields and Old Snelling A venue a protective fence will be constructed to prevent balls from rolling into the street The land itself will be allowed to go back to a natural ground cover. Councilmember Larson asked how high the fence will be. Mr. Pomeroy stated that the fence will be 10 feet high, Councilmember Larson asked if the fence will be chain link and if the it will run the entire length of tile property, Mr. Pomeroy stated that this was correct Councilmember Larson stated that he would prefer some landscaping between the fence and the road so that the view from Old Snelling Avenue is more than a large chain link fence, . With regard to the alternatives for parking lot lighting, Councilmember Larson stated that the 23 foot high poles still seemed taIL He asked why a larger number was require for the 15 foot high lights and what the intent of the lights were, Mr. Pomeroy stated that the theory behind the lights was to provide illumination of the walkways when games last beyond dusk, The first issue with the parking lot lighting is safety, The 15 foot lights will create bright and dark spots which ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 16 . requires additional poles to provide sufficient illumination, The 23-foot lights funnels the light better. Councilmember Grant asked how many people the softball field bleachers will seat. Mr. Pomeroy stated that the bleachers will seat 250 people. He stated that the bleachers were intended to be used during homecoming games, Councilmember Grant noted that the complex will not provide enough parking for 250 people, Mr. Pomeroy stated that during homecoming games most people will park on the main campus and walk across the street, He noted that Bethel College had considered reducing the amount of parking, however, it has been agreed that this can not be done, He added that it would be unlikely that 250 people would attend a game at anyone time, Councilmember Rem asked how many permanent structures were proposed and where they will be located, Ms, Randall stated that two permanent structures were proposed. One would be placed near the parking lot to hold maintenance equipment and concessions, the other would be placed near the tennis courts to hold tennis equipment. Councilmember Rem asked where the bathrooms will be located, Ms, Randall stated that the bathrooms will be adjacent to the maintenance equipment building, Councilmember Rem confirmed that if the bathrooms were permanent the building would have to be larger. Ms, Randall stated that this was correct. She indicated that the permanent facility would have to include handicap accessible bathrooms which will increase the size of the structure, . Councilmember Aplikowski asked if drinking fountains will be included, Mr. Pomeroy stated that the facility will include two drinking fountains, one located near the tennis courts and the other near the softball field, Councilmember Grant noted that the Staff report had indicated that the maintenance building will be of Bethel brick to match the buildings on the main campus, He asked if the tennis equipment building will be of the same material. Mr. Pomeroy stated that it will be, With regard to the proposed lighting, Councilmember Aplikowski stated that unless the number of 15 foot lights could be reduced, the 20 foot poles was the better option, She believed that the complex would not have night pedestrian tramc and if safety was the reason for the lights, fewer lights made more sense, MOTION: Councilmember Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Larson seconded a motion to approve Planning Case #00-01, Amendment to the Special Use Permit (updating the Master Plan) and site plan review (for the park facility), conditioned on: . 3, 4, Execution of a new Special Use Permit Document 00-01, Dedication of a trail easement for the existing trail to be prepared and recorded by the applicant and approval by staff. Compliance with the height ordinance for structures, Compliance with requirements of the Shoreland Management regulations, 1. 2, ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 17 . 5, 6, 7, 8, Rice Creek Watershed District approval. Compliance with the Lighting standards of the Zoning Ordinance, No lighting be erected for the ball fields and tennis courts, Add six pine trees, at least eight feet tall, at 45 degree angles to each other on the City property, east of the seven pinkspire crabapple trees, The parking lot lights be controlled by a timer and be turned off one hour after sunset. The use of 20 foot light poles in the parking lot. Review the turn lane requirements with Ramsey County, 9, 10, 11. Mayor Probst opened the meeting up to public comments, Mr. Frederick Bowie, 3708 Chatham Court, expressed concern regarding vehicle and pedestrian safety at the intersection ofthe proposed complex, He felt that the safety issues have been inadequately addressed, It was his belief that Bethel College students will cross the highway to access the complex and will face four lanes of traffic to cross, The visibility ofthe intersection is limited due to the curve in the road, He suggested that the intersection be studied by a professional safety engineer, without a vested interest, prior to approval of the athletic complex, Ms, Julie Coopet, 1636 Chatham Avenue, stated that she was also concerned about the safety of the intersection, As a parent, walker and jogger she knows that the roadway is congested during ordinary use, To allow special events with pedestrians crossing four lanes of traffic to access the complex did not make sense. She had asked that the Ramsey County Sheriff Department have a squad parked in this area in order to slow down the kids driving from the high school. She has witnessed two accidents at this intersection and suggested that a ramp over the road be used for pedestrian crossing, She asked that the City Council consider the safety of the local children. . Mr. JetfHohenshell, 1632 Chatham Avenue, stated that his property will abut the concession stand and bathrooms, He asked that the proposal be denied as it does not take into consideration the safety and welfare ofthe Arden Hills community, Safety has become a low priority compared to the monetary costs, Mr. Michael Coopet, 1636 Chatham Avenue, thanked the City Council for their thoughtful questions this evening, He had the impression that there was a rush to make a decision before working out the issues ofthe traffic with Ramsey County, He spoke with Mr. Dan Soler of Ramsey County and asked if the County had studied the potential impact of this proposal. Mr. Soler had indicated that Ramsey County reviews proposals and determines what may make the situation safer. He urged the Council to allow the community to bring in a professional traffic engineer to perform an objective study and determine the outcome of the proposal. Mr. Coopet stated that there were other issues with the proposal regarding aesthetics, He felt that a strong case can be made that more detailed work must be done, He asked that the City Council allow an additional 90 days in order for an impact study to be accomplished, He felt that the Planning Commission and other members of the City have acted as advocates on behalf of Bethel College, However, the City is the advocates of its residents, . . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 18 Ms, Winny Dudasocker, 1644 Chatham Avenue, agreed that the proposal athletic complex was too ambitious, She agreed that Bethel College should be allowed to develop their land, However, she was concerned about the proposed single northbound lane which will only provide for one turn lane onto McCracken Avenue, She has spoken with the University of Minnesota Horticulture Department regarding improving the proposed landscaping, She noted that the Planning Commission had suggested additional bushes along the bleachers, She provided the City Council with a list of other trees that could be used at the complex. Ms, Dudasocker stated that she was concerned about parking on Chatham Avenue, She requested that no parking signs be posted at the beginning of the street to avoid overflow parking in her neighborhood, Mr, Boyd Paulu, 3782 McCracken Lane, was concerned that if the grass trail is relocated within the 20-foot easement a significant number of mature trees will be lost. Additionally, the trail runs diagonally across the northwest edge of the tennis courts and he does not believe that the location of the tennis courts have been marked out on the site in order to determine the impact to his property, Mr, Paulu expressed concern for the impact of the proposal on his property, He stated that he moved to Arden Hills trom northern Minnesota and he enjoys the open space behind him, He was not supportive of the lighted monument sign or the lighted parking lot and entry, With regard to the traffic concerns, he did not feel the City Council had adequate information to approvc the request Mr. Paulu noted that Bethel College had four good tennis courts that were removed for a parking lot on campus, Hc felt it did not make sense to spend more money to build additional tennis courts, He stated that the City Council, Planning Commission and Parks Commission have been unresponsive to the neighborhood concerns, He asked that the Planning Case be tabled to allow further study, to determine where the grass trail will be located, and for Ramsey County to further study the restriping of Old Snelling Avenue, Mr. Jim Beutelspacher, 1644 Chatham Avenue, echoed the safety concerns that have been addressed, He indicated that his wife was nearly hit head-on by a high school student while heading northbound trom the bridge, The high school student was in the wrong lane making a left turn onto Bethel Drive, He felt that the proposed markings would exasperate the situation. Mr. Beutelspacher expressed concern for pedestrian and bicycle traffic along Old Snelling Avenue, He felt that moving the traftic closer to the edges will increase the danger. Mr. Gordon Kristufek, 1640 Chatham Avenue, agreed with thc concerns expressed rcgarding the traffic issues and pedestrian safety, He has two young children that utilize the trail system and he implored the City Council to not make a hasty decision until the end result of the project has been determined. Mr. Kunkel stated that he was responsible for the security and safety of the campus and he takes the safety issues of the students very seriously, Bethel College was recently voted one of the top ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31 2000 , 19 . three safest campuses in the State of Milmesota, Since he is not an expert in traffic management, he has deferred to Mr. Soler, the Ramsey County Traffic Engineer and Bethel College must consider the recommendations of Ramsey County, Mr. Kunkel noted that this project has been worked on for a long time in conjunction with the City of Arden Hills, He felt that the plan was good for Bethel College students and will benefit the community of Arden Hills, Mayor Probst asked what the timeline for approval was, Ms, Randall stated that the review period had been extended to Monday February 28,2000, She indicated that the City may, with the petitioners consent, extend the review period beyond that date, Councilmember Larson stated that he was still concerned about the design of the intersection, He felt comfortable with the actual proposal and believed that most of the issues have been addressed, Although he would prefer more vegetation along the soccer fields, his biggest conccrn was not knowing how Ramsey County planned to restripe the road, If the complex is uscd for overflow parking for events, this will result in more pedestrian traffic crossing four lanes to and from the main campus, . Councilmember Larson noted that the City Council had discussed the speed limit on Old Snelling Avenue ranging from 40 miles per hour to 45 miles per hour. The City had contacted Ramsey County regarding the inconsistency in the speed limit and the County responded that there was a process that must be followed and there was a risk of the speed limit increasing rather than decreasing, Mayor Probst questioned why this portion of Old Snelling Avenue was currently four lanes, He believed that this was one reason for thc speeding traffic, He stated the proposed three lane configuration would help the situation, He stated that it would be helpful to review Ramsey County's intentions for managing the intersection, He was not convinced that the proposal will be detrimental, rather he felt that it may help the situation. Councilmember Aplikowski noted that there currently are joggers along the street. She felt that there would not bc a significantly higher number of people crossing the road than there are now, She did not believe that the proposal will increase the traffic speed on Old Snelling Avenue since people are driving faster everywhere, Mr. Coopet noted that the athletic complex will generate more traffic, With the exception ofthe occasional visiting teams, Councilmember Aplikowski stated that the complex will be used for the students while at school, Any additional traffic will be generated by the City if the City chooses to use the complex, Mayor Probst noted that if the to acre site was residentially developed it could have 30 homes. The average trips per home is cight to 12 per day and a residential development would generate much more traffic than the 41 car parking lot. . Mr. Kristufek was concerned about the additional pedestrian traffic, At times the entire tennis team will be crossing the road on foot which is more pedestrian traffic than there has been, . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 20 Councilmember Rem stated that she was concerned about the safety issues and felt that because Old Snclling Avenue is a County road, the issues must be dealt with by Ramsey County, Since the athletic complex will draw people from across the road she would feel bctter if the interscction was a four way stop, Shc noted that the speeding traffic is not just high school kids, since parents and other residents drive fast as welL Ifthe road is widened as suggested by Ramscy County she would be concerned for pedestrian safety, She stated that she would like to have a better sense of how the intersection will be handled for pedestrians, Mayor Probst stated that the Council was not attempting to rush to a decision and if the Council had time to think about the proposal they should take the time, Beyond the issues of the statutory time limit, he felt that if Ramsey County has determined the design of the roadway, waiting a few more weeks will not change the design, Councilmember Rem asked if the City could request stop signs at the intersection, Mayor Probst stated that this could be done, however, he was not sure this would make the intersection safeL Councilmember Grant stated that he was familiar with the intersection at McCracken Lane and he agreed that the intersection should have a left turn lane, He did not believe that the proposed complex will add a great deal of incremental vehicular traffic, however, it will add pedestrian traffic, He asked if the proposal must be approved as a package, or if the layout of the complex could be approved and the intersection issues be further studied, Mayor Probst stated that there already was a motion on the table with 11 conditions, He suggested that rather than adding more conditions, some issues should be cleared up prior to taking action, He noted that the City Council will have two more mcetings prior to the deadline for action of Fcbruary 28, 2000, Ms. Randall stated that action should be taken on the night of February 28, 2000 to meet the statutory requirements, Councilmember Larson suggested that Ramsey County be invited to discuss the roadway and intersection issues with the City CounciL He asked staff if they thought the County would be receptive to coming to a meeting to provide figures and discuss the safety concerns. ML Lynch stated that he believed Ramsey County would be willing to attend a meeting with the CounciL Mayor Probst asked if traffic counts were taken at the intersection, ML Kunkel stated that tramc counts were taken by Ramsey County and he had the results available. COlillcilmember Aplikowski asked Mr, Kunkel how many pedestrians he though would be crossing the road to acccss the athletic complex on any given day, She noted that pedestrian safety issues had nevcr been brought up in any previous documentation, ML Kunkel stated that between November and April there would be very few pedestrians crossing the street to access the complex, During the spring and fall seasons there may be classes of up to 20 to 30 students using the complex up to three times per day, however, classes are not held every day, Mayor Probst stated that the options of the Council would be to approve the motion subject to the stated conditions. Or, ifthere was a desire to delay action, a second motion would have to be made, ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 21 . Council member Aplikowski restated her motion and suggested the addition of condition number 12 stating that final approval would not be granted until the Ramsey County plans for the intersection and roadway are made clear, Mayor Probst stated that when a motion is approved the entire project is approved, Council member Larson stated that he would welcome a delay in order to allow Ramsey County to discuss with the City the proposed pedestrian crossing and whether anything can be done to make it safer. He asked the applicant if a delay of two weeks would be acceptable, Mr. Kunkel stated that it would be, providing a decision is made within two weeks, Councilmember Aplikowski withdrew her motion to approve Planing Case #00-01, Councilmember Larson concurred, MOTION: Councilmember Larson moved and Councilmember Grant seconded a motion to postpone action on Planning Case #00-01, Special Use Permit amendment (updating the Master Plan) and Site Plan Review (for the park facility) until the February 14,2000 regular City Council meeting, pending consultation with Ramsey County regarding the concerns surrounding the pedestrian crosswalk at the intersection of Bethel Drive and Old Snelling Avenue, The motion carried (4- 1, Councilmember Aplikowski opposed), . Mayor Probst asked that Mr. Soler be asked to attend the City Council meeting and to provide a graphic depicting their intentions for the restriping of Old Snelling Avenue, from the railroad bridge to County Road E2. 2. Case #00-03, James Moberg, 3355 Lake Johanna Boulevard, Front Yard Setback Variance Ms, Randall explained that the applicant was requesting approval of a front yard setback variance (18 feet proposed, when 40 feet is required) for an addition to a Single-Family lot zoned R-2. The applicant currently has an existing home and garage on the property, The applicant was proposing a 605 square foot porch and 1,165 square foot home addition to the existing 1,061 square foot home, The applicant has evaluated other locations for the addition; however, they believe this location is the only place they can add to the home with minimal impact. The parcel is 150 feet by 150 feet According to the Zoning Ordinance, the front yard on a corner lot is determined by the shorter of the two sides, In the case of a square corner lot, the Zoning Administrator determines the front and corner side, Staff has deternlined Stowe Avenue to be the front and Lake Johanna Boulevard to be the corner side for this parcel, The existing home meets the required 40-foot corner side yard setback. The existing house is currently built within the 40 foot front yard setback making any addition to the home require a variance. . The applicant plans to demolish the existing garage and build a new detached garage farther back, meeting all the setback requirements, The existing home and garage currently have an eight foot front yard setback from the front property line, The proposed addition would start 18 feet from the front property line, . . - ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 22 Staff found that an addition off tile rear of tile existing structure appeared to bc the only suitable location for an addition to the existing home, Other houses in the area are setback at least 30 feet, except for a corner lot across Stowe Avenue which has a 20 foot setback. The only other option would be to build up, however, the City has a height restriction of35 feet. The existing structure is entirely in the tront yard setback area, The structure can not be expanded on without a variance unless it is added upward. The lot is larger tilan most lots in the area, The applicant could minimize thc request by eliminating a portion of the porch addition and the entry portion ofthe addition, This would require a seven foot variance (33 feet, where 40 feet is required,) This design would not fit as well with the existing home, The current house is slightly smaller than most of thc homes in the neighborhood, however, the addition would double the existing size, The plans show a separate living area (mother-in-law apartment), This property is currently zoned R-2, which allows single and two family dwelling units, Two family dwelling units are allowed under a special use permit with a minimum of a 16,000 square foot lot. The applicant's lot is 22,500 square feet. Staff was not aware of this early enough to includc a Special Use Permit as part of this application. The current ordinance does not prohibit the construction of this type of structure, however, it does prohibit the rental of this area without a special use permit, At the time of a building permit for this type of structure a condition would be placed on the permit that the structure not be rented without obtaining a special use permit. Staff recommends a condition be added to this variance request that the apartment not be rented without obtaining a special use permit. Ms, Randall stated that staff received a letter in support of the project. Ms, Randall advised that the Planning Commission recommended approval ofPlauning Case #00-03, front yard setback variancc (18 feet proposed, when 40 feet is required) for an addition and porch bascd on the "Findings - Front Yard Setback Variance (addition)" section of the staff report dated January 5, 2000, Mayor Probst confirmed that all ofthe encroachment, with the exception ofthe addition, is the existing building and the only way to eliminate this would be to remove the entire home and rebuild elsewhere on the lot. Ms. Randall stated that this was correct, She added that there would be now way to add onto this property without infringing on the front yard setback, Mr. Jamcs Moberg, 3355 Lake Johanna Boulevard, stated that the Planning Commission had expressed concern regarding the proposed widows walk on the roof of the building, He indicated that he reviewed the Code regarding this addition and the widows walk will meet all requirements. MOTION: Councilmember Larson moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to approve Planning Case #00-03, tront yard setback variance (18 feet proposed, when 40 feet is requircd) for an addition and porch based on the "Findings - Front Yard Setback Variance (addition)" section ofthe staff report ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 23 . dated January 5, 2000, conditioned on the apartment not being rented without obtaining a special use permit. The motion carried unanimously (5-0), 3. Case #00-04, Edward Kajer, 1434 West County Road E, Side Yard Accessory Structure Variance Ms, Randall explained that the applicant was requesting approval of a side yard setback variance (3 feet, 3 inches proposed, when 1 0 feet is required) for a new garage on a single-family lot zoned R-1, The applicant currently has a 399 square foot detached garage, The detached garage is currently three feet, three inches from the east property line, The applicant wished to demolish the existing garage and rebuild the detached garage in approximately the same location, The proposed garage would be 528 square feet (22 by 24 feet) which is larger than the existing garage, The setback from the side property line would remain three feet. The garage needs to be at least six feet from the house to meet the building code, The existing garage is 12 feet from the house, The proposed garage would be seven feet from the house, Due to the pie shaped lot and significant trees, the applicant would have a diflicult time building on the west side of the home, The garage could be moved one foot closer to the house and still meet the building code, . Several similar variances have been granted in this neighborhood including one for the neighbor to the east at 1426 County Road E. The City, in Planning Case 97-11, approved the variance for a three foot, three inch setback to the side yard setback for an accessory structure, Other variances in this neighborhood had been approved for five foot side yard setbacks. The applicant could minimize the request by reducing the garage width to a standard 22 feet and then only need a five foot variance where 40 is required, The garage could also be moved one foot closer to the house and still meet the building code, Because the house has windows facing out to the garage, the applicant preferred to not move the garage closer to the house, Staff found the configuration of the property to be unique, The parcel is not deficient in width, however, due to the pie shape, the width of the parcel at the rear ofthe house and garage is only approximately 75 feet. The Zoning Ordinance requires properties in the R-1 Zoning District to have a minimum width of 95 feet at the front setback line, The pie shape of the subject property was not created by the applicant. Other properties in the immediate area have been granted side yard setback variances which were in the range of what the applicant was requesting. The existing garage was just as close to the property line as the proposed garage, With regard to alternative locations, the pie shape of the parcel, trees, and setback requirements would restrict a garage on the wcst side ofthe existing home, The garage could be moved back. - The applicant could reduce the garage width to a standard 22 feet and then only need a five foot setback where 10 feet is required, There is sufficient depth to the lot allowing the garage to be extended out the back for more storage space, . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 24 Ms, Randall advised that the Plamling Commission recommended approval of Planning Case #00-04, side yard setback variance for a detached garage (3 feet, 3 inches proposed, when 10 feet is required), based on the "Findings - Side Yard Setback V ariance (detached garage)" section of the Staff report dated January 5, 2000, Since the next door neighbor's garage is also three feet from the property line, Councilmember Aplikowski stated that she did not see any problems with the request. Ms, Randall noted that the next door neighbor's garage has eaves that extend beyond the roof line and applicant's new garage will not. MOTION: Councilmember Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Rem seconded a motion to approve Planning Case #00-04, side yard setback variance for a detached garage (3 feet, 3 inches proposed, when 10 feet is required), based on the "Findings - Sidc Yard Setback Variance (detached garage)" section of the Staff report dated January 5, 2000, The motion carried unanimously (5-0), 4. Case #00-05, Sprint PCS, 1230 Red Fox Road (Water Tower) a, Special Use Permit and Site Plan Approval Ms, Randall explained that the applicant was requesting a Special Use Permit and Site Plan review to allow for the placement of Sprint PCS antennas on the side of the municipal water tower and an electronic equipment building to be located at 1230 Red Fox Road, The antenna requires electronic equipment to be located on the ground, The applicant was proposing this to be at the south side ofthe water tower. The antennas were proposed to be installed at 50 feet, 60 feet and 83 feet in height. A group of four antennas will be at the three different heights and three different directions. The water tower site currently has two buildings in addition to the tower, a Public Works Facility building and an equipment building for the existing antennas. The equipment for this project was proposed to be on a 15 by 15 foot slab on the south side of the water tower. The site currently has a drive to access the water tower and an additional drive to access the existing building. The applicant was proposing an additional driveway to access the electronic equipment. The equipment consists of three to six cream colored weatherproof cabinets, The cabinets are six foot in height. The City Code requires that mechanical operating equipment located on the ground or on the roof of a premises be screened from view, Staff felt it questionable whether the proposed equipment would be included in this requirement. The applicant does not usually construct a building for the units, however, they do enclose them with a chain link fence. They were proposing some shrubs along the south side of the equipment pad, The equipment meets the required setbacks fTom the property line and water tower. The applicant was open to other types of fencing around the equipment pad if screening is a concern, . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 25 Staff recommended trees be added to screen the equipment from the south property line, The construction of the equipment pad and access drive will require three trees to be removed, Staff would recommend six blue spruce trees, six to eight foot tall, planted 12 feet apart at 45 degree angles, Ms, Randall advised that the Planning Commission recommended approval of Planning Case #00-05, Special Use Permit and Site Plan Review, subject to the following conditions: I, The antennas and all mounts shall be painted to match the color of the water tower. 2, A lease agreement shall be maintained with the City of Arden Hills which details rent payments and other specific requirements of the City. If at any time, the lease shall terminate, the Special Use Permit shall be reviewed and the City may impose other restrictions or conditions as warranted, 3, No welding shall be done, or other mechanical attachments used on the water tower tank 4, The driveway leading from the existing drive to the equipment building be a bituminous surface to match the existing drive, 5, Enclose the equipment pad with a six foot high cedar wood fence. 6, The equipment be screened on the south side by six blue spruce trees, six to eight feet tall, planed 12 feet apart at 45 degree angles as shown on Exhibit C, 7, The applicant be responsible for snow removal along the proposed drive, With regard to condition numbcr seven, Ms, Randall stated that the City of Arden Hills does remove the snow on this site, However, staff did not want the City to be bound to the snow removal along the applicant's drive, Additionally, the Council may wish to modifY condition number two to state: 2, A lease agreement shall be maintained with the City of Arden Hills which details rent payments and other specific requirements of the City, If at any time, the lease shall terminate, the Special Use Permit shall be terminated or reviewed and the City may impose other restrictions or conditions as warranted, The lease agreement as referred to under condition number two will be covered under a separate agenda item, Mayor Probst asked if the trees being removed along the driveway were good enough to be relocated on the site, Ms, Randall stated that the trees are not old and it may be possible to relocate them, However, she was not certain that the trees will survive the transport, She added that one of the trees may be able to remain depending upon the whether the entire drive is paved, Mayor Probst suggested that a condition be added providing Mr. Stallord with approval rights over the driveway, Councilmember Grant asked how the antennas will be attached to the water tower. Ms. Randall stated that it may be possible to weld the antennas to the tower. Staff had becn concerned that the welding not occur where the water is located in the tank If welding is not possible, rings can be attached to the tower. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 26 Councilmember Grant asked ifthe coaxial cable will be screened, Ms, Randall stated that the cable can be painted to match the tower and the majority of the cable can be run inside the water tower beginning at a certain point. Councilmember Grant recommended that the cable be painted to match the color of tlle tower. . Council member Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Larson seconded a motion to approve Planning Case #00-05, Special Use Permit and Site Plan Review, subject to the following conditions: MOTION: 3, 4, 5, 6, e 7, 1, The antennas and all mounts shall be painted to match the color of the water tower. 2, A lease agreement shall be maintained with the City of Arden Hills which details rent payments and other specific requirements ofthe City, If at any time, the lease shall terminate, the Special Use Permit shall be terminated or reviewed and the City may impose other restrictions or conditions as warranted, No welding shall be done, or other mechanical attachments used on the water tower tanle The driveway leading from the existing drive to the equipment building be a bitwninous surface to match the existing drive. Enclose the equipment pad with a six foot high cedar wood fence. The equipment be screened on the south side by six blue spruce trees, six to eight feet tal!, planed 12 feet apart at 45 degree angles as shown on Exhibit C, The applicant be responsible for snow removal along the proposed drive, Mayor Probst requested that the following conditions be added: 8, The trees being removed for the driveway be relocated on the site, 9. The Public Works Director have approval rights of the driveway construction, Councilmembers Aplikowski and Larson concurred with the additional conditions, The motion carried unanimously (5-0). b. PCS Sitc Agreement between the City and Sprint Spectrum L.P., Authorization to Execute Lease Agreement Mayor Probst requested confirmation that the proposed lease was comparable with the elements of other leases, Ms, Randal! stated that it was, e With regard to paragraph number two of the lease agreement, Councilmember Larson noted that the term of the lease provides that the applicant can automatically renew the lease for four additional terms of five years each, unless the applicant decides not do so and provides the City ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 27 . 90 days notice of termination, He felt that since the City was essentially in the position of a land lord, it should have the ability to do the same. Councilmember Larson stated that paragraph number seven of the lease agreement included a standard statement that the applicant may at its expense make such improvements on the site as deemed necessary from time to time for the operation of the PCS system. He suggested that a statement be included that requires the approval of the Owner so that the applicant does not have the ability to do something with the site that is not consistent with what has been approved, Ms, Randall stated that the lease only covers the portion of the site that contains the roadway, the pad and the ability to place the antennas, The applicant would not have control over the entire site with this lease, Mayor Probst asked the applicant if there were any concerns regarding Councilmember Larson's suggestions, Mr. Steve Carlson, representing Sprint Spectrum L.P " stated that a client such as this will typically not sign an agreement without a 20 year guarantee, or one that allows the land lord to kick them off at their option. This was the only way they could justify the cost of installing equipment in this location. Councilmember Larson asked why the applicant required a provision that allows them to terminate the lease early, Mr. Carlson stated that if the technology being used by the applicant is no longer applicable then they must have the right to terminate the lease, . Councilmember Larson asked Mr. Carlson ifhe was comfortable with a provision that requires reasonable approval by the Owner for any improvements made to the site, Mr. Carlson stated that this would be acceptable. MOTION: Councilmember Larson moved and Councilmember Grant seconded a motion to authorize the Mayor and City Administrator to execute the PCS Site Agreement between the City of Arden Hills and Sprint Spectrum L.P., conditioned on paragraph number seven being amended to state: "SSLP may, at its expense, make such improvements on the Site as it deems necessary from time to time for the operation of the PCS system, subject to reasonable approval of any improvements by the Owner." The motion carried unanimously (5-0), 5. Case #00-06, Joann Kulman, 3279 North Snelling Avenue, Minor Subdivision and Lot Width Varianee . Ms, Randall explained that the applicant was requesting approval of a minor subdivision to split one parcel into two parcels zoned R-l, and a lot width variance (85 feet, when 95 feet is required,) The applicant wished subdivide the property and sell parcel C to the neighbor to the south, Parcel B was previously combined with Parcel A and currently serves as access for the existing houses, Parcel A currently contains a home and cabin that have existed for a number of . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 28 years, Parcel A is currently accessed from Bussard Court using Parcel B and this access would continue, Parcel C is accessed from Snelling Avenue, A similar subdivision was reviewed on this property in ] 988 with Planning Case #88-13. At the time Parcel C was proposed to be smaller. The Planning Commission reviewed the proposal and recommended approval to the City Council with conditions. The applicant withdrew the application prior to the City Council meeting, Parcel A is currently served by water and sewer. Parcel C has water available from Snelling Avenue, The sewer, however, is not available to this lot from Snelling Avenue, An easement will be needed from either Bussard Court or the west side of Parcel A if parcel C is not joined to the existing parcel to the south, Park dedication has not typically been paid with the relocation of a property line, If the City Council approves this as a separate parcel, park dedication would need to be determined, The dimensions are met, except for the lot width, The applicant currently has an 85 foot wide lot where 95 feet is required, Parcel A requires a variance for lot width. Parcel C only requires a variance if it is not attached to the property to the south, Ms, Randall advised that the Planning Commission recommended approval of Planning Case #00-06, Minor Subdivision and Variance for Parcel A, subject to the following conditions: L Create a 20 foot wide private sewer easement for sewer access to parcel C, or that Parcel C be deeded directly to the property owner to the south, If the 20 foot wide private sewer easement is needed, a variance shall be granted for parcel C. Rice Creek Watershed District approvaL 2, Ms, Randall stated that the Rice Creek Watershed District has indicated nothing will need to be done if the property is deeded to the property owner to the south, However, staff would recommend that condition number two remain part of the approvaL Ms, Randall stated that staff would recommend adding condition number three, that the suhdivision be recorded in the form of a Registered Land Survey, The applicant has informed staff that they will be selling Parcel C to the neighbor to the south (Rolf Engel property) to be connected to their property, If this is the case, the sewer easement and variance will not be needed for Parcel C. Parcel C would have to be connected to Mr. Engel's property as part of the recording, If condition number one remains, staff would recommend it be modified as follows: L Create a 20 foot wide private sewer easement for sewer access to parcel C, or that Parcel C be deeded directly to the property owner to the south, If the 20 foot wide private sewer easement is needed, a variance shall be granted for parcel C, and park dedication shall be determined by the City CounciL . . t ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 29 Ms, Randall stated that to accomplish the immediate deed transfer the applicant will need to supply the City with deeds showing a transfer from Parcel C (Kulman) to South Property (Engel) and Parcel C (Engel) to South Property (Engel). Staff recommended an additional condition that no building permits be issued for Parcel C until connected to the lot to the south (Mf. Engel's property), Mayor Probst asked how the three properties to the south ofMr. Engel's property are accessed, Ms, Randall eXplained the access to those properties, Mayor Probst stated that what appears to be developing with this request was another opportunity for a significant subdivision, Ms. Randall agreed that adding Parcel C to Mr, Engel's property makes the property more buildable, It was her understanding that a son and father that own some of the other parcels which could be connected to create a subdivision. Mayor Probst stated that, although he was not opposed to the actual request, he would want a better understanding of what the intent was of the property, Ms Randall stated that one benefit that may be realized with this request was that any homes built on the property could be developed similar to those on Buzzard Court with backyards backing up to backyards, Councilmember Larson confirmed that if the transfer of Parcel C to Mf. Engel does not occur, the Parcel would be considered a stand-alone and would be subject to park dedication fees and require a sewer easement Ms, Randall stated that this was correct Mayor Probst asked Mr. Engel to address the request Mr. Engel stated that his intent was to use Parcel C in his pine tree growing hobby and not build on the property, Councilmember Larson requested confirmation from Mr. Engel that he does not plan to change his mind regarding the transfer of the deeds, Mr. Engel stated that he did not intend to change his mind and suggested the approval be subject to the deed transfer occurring, Mr. Mike Kulman, 3279 North Snelling Avenue, stated that it was Mr. Engel's preference that the parcel be deeded to his property, The Planning Commission had approved the request with conditions in the event the transfer did not take place. The City Planner has informed him that the deed to deed transfer can occur without the parcel ever being a stand-alone, Mayor Probst stated that he would prefer that the parcel be deeded directly to Mr. Engel. Councilmember Aplikowski asked how Mr. Engel's property is accessed, Ms, Randall stated that Mr. Engel's property was accessed via a private drive off Old Snelling Avenue. Councilmember Larson asked if staff had any objections to the subdivision approval being contingent on the immediate transfer of Parcel C to Mr. Engel, Ms, Randall stated that staff would have no objections to this contingency, Ms. Kulman notcd that this was how the Planning Commission would have preferred to approve the subdivision, however, they were not certain that it would be possible, ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 30 MOTION: Councilmember Larson moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to approve Planning Case #00-06, Minor Subdivision and Variance for Parcel A, subject to the following conditions: . 1, Rice Creek Watershed District approval 2, Parcel C being deeded directly to the property owner to the south, 3. The subdivision be recorded in the form of a Registered Land Survey, 4. No building permits be issued for Parcel C until connected to the lot to the south (Mr. Engel's property). The motion carried unanimously (5-0), C. City Events Task Force, Additional Appointments, Accepting Resignation Councilmember Aplikowski was recommending that the Mayor appoint and seek Councilmember ratification of two additional members to the City Events Task Force: . Mr. Tom Ostby, 3517 Siems Court . Ms, Loann Crepeau, 3517 Siems Court The Council may also wish to acknowledge the resignation of Tom Goserud from the Task . Force, due to prior commitments, Councilmember Aplikowski stated that she had no additional information regarding the Task Force appointments, She indicated that she anticipated a number people joining and resigning from the Task Force, MOTION: Council member Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Larson seconded a motion to ratify the appointments of the two new members to the City Events Task Force. The motion carried nnanimously (5-0), ADMINISTRATOR COMMENTS A. Pay Equity Report Mr. Lynch stated that the Pay Equity Report was mandated by the State of Minnesota, Included in the agenda packet were the Pay Equity Implementation Report, Compliance Report, Predicted Pay Report and a graph demonstrating the predicted pay comparison between male and female jobs for the City of Arden Hills, t Mr. Lynch advised that staff recommends the City Council receive the Pay Equity Implementation Report, Compliance Report, Predicted Pay Report, and Predicted Pay Graph, and reiterate their position to be in compliance with the Pay Equity Act for the State of Minnesota, Mr. Lynch stated that this information was submitted to the Minnesota Department of Employee Relations by the deadline of January 31, 2000, The City will receive correspondence back from ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 31 . them in approximately one month to six weeks, indicating compliance or what needs to be done to comply, Based upon the information that he has been able to determine on the reports, ML Lynch stated that it appeared the City of Arden Hills should be compliance with the Pay Equity Act. MOTION: Councilmember Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Grant seconded a motion to receive the Pay Equity Implementation Report, Compliance Report, Predicted Pay Report, and Predicted Pay Graph, and for the City Council to reiterate their position to be in compliance with the Pay Equity Act for the State of Minnesota, The motion carried unanimously (5-0), COUNCIL COMMENTS Councilmember Aplikowski stated that she attended the Ramsey County Legislative Local Government meeting, She stated that the Council was outnumbered by the School District and that few Legislators attended the meeting, Councilmember Aplikowski stated that the next City Events Committee meeting will be held Wednesday, February 16,2000, COLillcilmember Rem stated that she attended the Operations and Finance Committee meeting last week. The Committee is looking into reviewing the City utility rates and was interested in . reviewing the City assessment policy, Councilmember Rem stated that she attended the Human Rights League meeting in Roseville last evening and the Northwest Youth and Family Services will be holding a youth banquet. Mayor Probst reported on the first meeting of the year for the 135- W Corridor Coalition, He stated that Chair Mondale was not in attendance, At this meeting the Coalition acknowledged the grant money, He stated that Anoka County has indicated a strong interest in becoming a voting member of the Coalition, There was also the possibility of Saint Anthony joining the Coalition which would bring in Hennepin County as well. There had been some discussion at the meeting regarding what the role of the Counties would be, The next 135-W Corridor Coalition meeting will be held in March 2000, ADJOURN , Councilmember Aplikowski movcd and Councilmember Rem seconded a motion o adjourn the meeting at 11 :43 p,m, The motion carried unanimously (5-0), MOTION: Jos Cit . . , ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 31, 2000 32 NOTICE OF MEETINGS The next regular City Council meeting will be held Monday, February 14,2000 at 7:30 p,m. at the Arden Hills Council Chambers,