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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC 03-13-2000 . . . CITY OF ARDEN HILLS, MINNESOTA CITY COUNCIL MEETING MARCH 13,2000 7:30 P.M. - ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL Pursuant to due call and notice thereot; Mayor Dennis Probst called to order the regular City Council meeting at 7:30 p.m. Present: Mayor Delmis 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; City Accountant, Terrance Post; Parks and Recreation Director, Tom Moore; Recreation Program Supervisor, Michelle Olson; City Engineer, Greg Brown, BRW; Associate Planner, Nancy Randall; and Recording Secretary, Mary Mullen, ADOPT AGENDA MOTION: Councilmember Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Larson seconded a motion to adopt the agenda for the March 13,2000, regular City Council meeting, with the following change: Item 6c, Commendation of Public Works Maintenance Department Employees, moved above Item 6a, Planning Cases. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. February 22, 2000 Council Worksession, Councilmember Larson requested the following changes: On page 5, under Public Works Department, 2nd paragraph, last line, replace "in" with "is". On page 6, under Mayor Probst, 3rd paragraph, sentence should read "Mayor Probst and the Councilmembers concurred with the Job Description. ' . " Councilmember Rem requested the following change: On page 3, 5th paragraph, last line, replace "recently zoned" with "recently created and awaiting zoning". MOTION: Councilmember Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Grant seconded a motion to approve the meeting minutes ofthe February 22, 2000 Council Worksession, as amended. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MARCH 13,2000 2 CONSENT CALENDAR A. B. Claims and Payroll Receive 1999 Treasurer's Report MOTION: Councilmember Larson moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to approve the Consent Calendar and authorize execution of all necessary documents contained therein. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). 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. Commendation, Public Works Maintenance Department Employees, Mike Schifsky and Fred Reed Mayor Probst invited Public Works Director Dwayne Stafford to address the Council. Mr. Stafford presented Public Works Maintenance Department Employees Mike Schifsky, who joined the staff in March 1980, and Fred Reed, who joined the stafIin April 1978. He stated these employees had recently developed a transparent Lexan door for use on the City's largest snowplows, which provides improved visibility for the plow drivers. Mr. Stafford stated the employees' ingenuity was noticed by a representative of the League of Minnesota Cities' Loss Control Department, who recently inspected the Public Works Facility and was impressed by these employees' excellent work on such a beneficial project. Mayor Probst commended the employees on behalf of the City Council and residents, and thanked them for the excellent idea. He expressed his hope that the invention will be passed on for utilization by other communities through the League of Minnesota Cities. He thanked the employees for their ingenuity and cooperation. He added his personal thanks and commendation. B. Planning Cases 1. Case #00-12, Lawrence Erickson, Rear Yard Variance Ms. Randall explained that the applicant was requesting approval of a rear yard setback variance (20 feet proposed, when 30 feet is required) for a J 6 by 32 foot garage addition on a single- family lot zoned R-2. The proposed garage addition is 16 by 32 feet (512 square feet). The applicant currently has a 22 by 24 foot (528 square foot) two-car garage. The applicant desires to build a longer garage to allow for a workshop area in the rear of the garage. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MARCH 13, 2000 3 With regard to circumstances unique to the property, stafffound the property in question meets all the minimum dimensional and area standards except the 120 foot depth requirement. The current house and garage meet the required setbacks. The garage addition can be expanded east three more feet without requiring a variance allowing for a 19 by 24 foot (456 square foot) garage addition. There is room for an addition to the west; however, the garage addition would not work well with the existing intcrior configuration. The applicant currently has a 22 by 24 foot (528 square foot) two-car garage. The proposed addition is 16 by 32 feet (512 square feet) for a total of 1,040 square feet of garage space. The City Ordinance does not restrict the size of attached garage space. It does, however restrict detached garages to 728 square feet. Ms. Randall advised that the Planning Commission recommends denial of Planning Case #00-12, rear yard variance for a garage addition based on the "Findings - Rear Yard Setback Variance" section of the staff report dated March 1, 2000. Mayor Probst asked whether a variance is required for the alternative site plan. Ms. Randall confirnled a variance is not required. Mayor Probst noted, for the benefit of the applicant, that the request could not be resubmitted for 6 months if the Council denies it. Ms. Randall added that the applicant could only reapply if the configuration was modified. Mr. Lawrence Erickson, 1860 Indian Place, stated that he prefers his proposal, which is more attractive and a better investment. He added the unusually short depth of his property requires him to obtain the variance. Councilmember Larson asked how much of the current garage could be used for a workshop. Mr. Erickson stated that he works on hobby cars, and requires at least a 22 foot deep garage for the workshop to be attached. Council member Aplikowski asked whether the cul-de-sac on which the home is situated is elevated above thc homes to its south. Mr. Erickson stated the southerly lots are above the cul- de-sac, adding those homes are situated to the front of their lots. Mayor Probst asked why the applicant is opposed to the alternative plan in which the workshop would be located to the side. He added, in his opinion, this plan would be more consistent with the design of the existing home with regard to roofing and lines. Mr. Erickson stated he didn't believe he would like the appearance. Mayor Probst statcd that a hardship must be identified for the variance to be granted. He noted that the applicant has some options, and in his opinion it is difficult to determine a hardship. Paul Trcis, the applicant's neighbor, expressed concern that the proposed site plan depictions contain inaccuracies with regard to his property and home. He added the proposed addition would encroach upon his property line and affect the property values of all the homes on the cul- de-sac from an appearance standpoint. He expressed concern that this variance would create a precedence, and requested the Council take more time to study the issue. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MARCH 13,2000 4 COlillcilmember Aplikowski statcd the proposal presents the cleanest line and will not deter from the neighbor's view. She noted the proposal does not hamper other neighbors, and the applicant has the right to enjoy his property in this way. Councilmember Grant stated the applicant has the ability to utilize his property in this way under the zoning laws, and the proposal is the less intrusive option. Mayor Probst stated he could not support the variance request, as he is unable to identify a hardship in this case. Council member Grant asked whether the hardship could apply to the neighbors as well as the applicant. Ms. Randall stated the hardship applies to the property and not to the property owner or any other person. COlillcilmember Larson statcd he opposes granting this variance due to lack of hardship and the fact that other options exist. Councilmember Rem stated she could not support the variance as no hardship exists, and the alternative proposal should be reviewed. Councilmember Aplikowski stated the irregular shape of the lot could be considered a hardship for the applicant, and reiterated her support of granting the variance. Councilmember Aplikowski moved, seconded by Councilmember Grant to approve Planning Case #00-12, Rear Yard Variance (20 feet proposed when 30 feet is required) for a garage addition based on the "Findings - Rear Yard Setback Variance" as contained in the Staff report dated March I, 2000. The motion failed (2 ayes, Aplikowski, Grant - 3 nays, Probst, Larson, Rem). Mayor Probst noted the variance was not denied, adding the applicant could present alternatives or new information if they wished. He added the Council could move to deny the variance, after which the applicant could not reapply for 6 months. Mr. Erickson thanked the Council for their consideration. 2. Case #00-13, Julie Schumacher, Spccial Use Permit (Class II Home Occupation) Ms. Randall explained that the applicant was requesting approval of a Special Use Permit (Class II Home Occupation) for a personal training studio in a single family lot zoned R-2. The home is located at 1932 West County Road E and was remodeled in 1994 to include a workshop area behind the existing two-car garage. The applicant has a purchase agreement on the home and would like to use the workshop area for a training studio. The City has several husiness permitted as a Class I Home Occupation and only one (Arden Hills Nursery) with a Special Use Permit. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MARCH 13, 2000 5 . Ms. Randall reviewed the conditions required for approval of a Class II Home Occupation as contained in Zoning Ordinance Section VI, B, 3, a, which states home occupations are allowed as either accessory uses or special uses depending on the characteristics of the operation. Ms. Randall reviewed Zoning Ordinance Section VI, B, 3, c which states Class II Special Accessory Home Occupations may be allowed by Special Use Permit if they meet the conditions stipulated for all Home Occupations and the following conditions: I. The primary business activity shall be conducted by an occupant of the residence; 2. One person not residing in the residence may be employed to assist in the business activity; 3. It does not occupy more than thirty-three percent of the floor area of the dwelling; 4. It has a limited number of patrons visiting the premises; 5. Off-street parking for no more than two additional vehicles than those required by the occupants shall be permitted; on-street parking shall not be used to satisfy required parking; 6. It requires delivery of products to the premises no more than once per day. Ms. Randall advised that the area is sound proofed, however, the nature of the business may require music which should be kept to a minimum as to not disturb neighbors. Staff suggested setting hours of operation. . Ms. Randall explained that the applicant plans to occupy the residence and does not plan to have other employees at this time. Clients would be dealt with on a one-on-one basis, however, there could be an overlap, thus causing two clients at the same time for a short period of time. The clients could also have someone waiting for them, thus causing a third person. The property has ample parking for three patrons along with the applicant's vehicles. The business does not require the delivery of products. The training studio is 24 by 36 feet (864 square feet). The dwelling is 3,516 square feet (including the garage and studio area). The studio would be 24.5 percent of the dwelling, which is below the maximum 33 percent allowed. Ms. Randall advised that the Planning Commission recommend approval of Planning Case #00- 13, Special Use Permit for a personal training studio with eight conditions. Mayor Probst asked whether the applicant was comfortable with all the conditions stipulated by staff. Ms. Julie Schumacher stated she is comfortable with the conditions, adding the studio is soundproofed and the windows can not be opened. Councilmember Larson moved, seconded by Councilmember Grant, to approve Planning Case #00-13, Special Use Permit for a personal training studio with the following conditions: 1. Music be kept to a minimum as to not disturb neighbors and windows shall remain closed during sessions. Applicant must reside in the house. No more than one person can assist with the business. . 2. 3. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MARCH 13, 2000 6 . 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. No more than three patrons visiting the premises at a time Hours of operation be between 5:30 a.m. and 9 p.m. No street parking of patrons. Review of Special Use Permit by City Council every two years. All required permits be obtained. No business signs shall be allowed on the premises. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). 3. Case #00-14, Chuck Mertensotto, Corner Side Yard Variance Ms. Randall eXplained that the applicant was requesting approval of a comer side yard setback variance (8 feet proposed, when 40 feet is required) for a porch addition on a single-family lot zoned R-2. The proposed porch addition is 183 square feet running along the front and side of the home. The applicant currently has an 8 by 30 foot (240 square foot) porch on the rear of the home. The applicant desires to build a porch on the street side to enhance the property. This is currently a rental property. . To date, little information has been compiled regarding historic sites or buildings in Arden Hills having architectural/visual interest. Investigation with the Minnesota Historical Society and Ramsey County Historical Society has identified only one site. This house, known as the Charles Perry house, has been designated as a possible nominee for the National Register of Historic Places. Further research, as well as community interest, is required before actual placement on the National Register of Historic Places is pursued. The home currently does not have any historic restrictions or reviews for modifications. Ms. Randall noted the house is not square to the road and explained that the shorter side of the property is considered the front, noting both the front and sides of a comer lot require a 40 foot setback so the corner side setback is not currently being met. With regard to circumstances unique to the property, staff found the house currently is 15.37 feet (where 40 feet is required) from the easement line. The house was built (moved) prior to the current setback restriction. Ms. Randall explained that the variance could be reduced by eliminating the 8 by 14-foot section on the northeast. She presented an overview diagram of the house structure and how a porch could be configured which would not present as much of an impact. She advised that it appears at one time (due to some existing footings) there was a porch approximately 5 by 8 feet in front of the door. Any front entryway will require a variance. Because of that, staff felt the porch could be placed in that location but not wrapped around the building. Ms. Randall stated Lake Johanna Boulevard currently has a 66' right-ot~way; however, it may be reconstructed and may shift somewhat but the exact alignment is not yet known. She asked the City Council to keep that in mind when considering structure locating closer to Lake Johanna Boulevard. . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL. MARCH 13,2000 7 . Ms. Randall advised that the Planning Commission recommends approval of Planning Case #00. ] 4, corner side yard variance for a porch addition based on the "Findings - Corner Side Yard Setback Variance" section of the staff report dated March I, 2000, and with the tollowing modification: 1. Eliminate the 8 by 14-loot section on the northeast side thus only needing a 12.foot setback whcre a 40 foot setback is required. Mayor Probst invited Mr. Chuck Mertensotto to address the CounciL Mr. Mertensotto stated the home is on one of the most visible pieces of property in the City and is being remodeled inside and out. He added the 8 x 14 foot section was a result of attempting to break up the north side of the home. Mr. Mertensotto stated the home has no defined front entrance, which is a hardship. He added there is no place to enjoy the lake views from the home. He noted he had contacted Ramsey County with regard to futurc road construction on Lake Johanna Boulevard, and he was intormed that the County has no plans for that road within the next 5 years. Mayor Probst asked whether the applicant had considered any other locations for the 8 x 14 foot section of the deck. Mr. Mertensotto stated he thought a small seating area on the north side of the home would break up the line ofthe house. . Mayor Probst expressed concern with regard to the degree of encroachment. He added that the roadway would require construction at some point in the future. He expressed his support of the Planning Commission's moditlcation, requiring the elimination of the 8 x 14 toot section of deck. Councilmember Larson stated he is glad to see work being done on the home. He added that the applicant seems to be indicating that his design is not final, and asked what the applicant required if the Council was not inclined to approve the variance. He statcd the deck might be designed to extend out in a triangular shape on the southeast corner of the house. Mayor Probst expressed concern that the applicant's proposal may not be final, adding the Council would not want to proceed with such a significant variance if the applicant is unsure whether the construction would take place. He suggested the Council might hold the variance over, or send the issue back to the Planning Commission. Mr. Mertensotto stated his neighbors have expressed their approval of breaking up the length of the home along the north side. Mr. Lawrence Erickson, 1860 Indian Place, stated he is a neighbor ofthe applicant, and he believes that corner of the home could be very aesthetically pleasing and is visible from the beach which will be frequented by non-residents as well as residents. He added it will mean a lot to the City in terms of appearance, and expressed his support of the applicant's request. . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MARCH 13,2000 8 . Ms. Marguerite Jaster stated she lives 3 houses from the applicant on Lake Johanna Boulevard, and added her support to the request. She added the plans would break up the verticality of the home. Mayor Probst expressed his support of increasing the width of the deck at the home's southeast corner. Councilmember Aplikowski expressed approval of a triangular shaped configuration at the south of the home, but stated she is open to allowing approval of a variance. Mr. Mertensotto agreed to review the site plan and decide upon some options for the north side oftlle home. Mayor Probst stated that City staff could work with him on alternative plans. C0U11cilmember Grant moved, seconded by Councilmember Aplikowski to table Planning Case #00-14, corner side yard variance until the March 27,2000 Regular Council meeting. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). 4. Case #00-15, Robert Aleksander, Rear Yard Variance Ms. Randall explained that the applicant was requesting approval of a rear yard setback variance (23 feet 6 inches proposed when 30 feet is required) for a room and deck addition on a single- family lot zoned R-l. . The proposed porch addition is a 500 square foot addition running along the backside of the home. The home was constructed in 1988 with three patio doors facing out the back of the home. When the home was built, the Zoning Ordinance required a 30-foot rear yard setback, which is the same as required today. The home was placed 35 feet 6 inches from the rear property line. The applicant has stated that due to the interior configuration and location of the existing patio doors, this seems the most feasible location for a deck and room addition. The home currently meets all setback requirements. The lot is very wide, allowing for expansion on either side of the home. The rear of the home borders land owned by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which surrounds Round Lake. The area between the ordinary high water mark and the rear property line is about 200 feet. Zoning Ordinance Section VI, C, d, requires a 75-foot setback from the ordinary high water mark. The proposed porch and deck meet the 75-foot setback requirement. Zoning Ordinance Section VI, C, 2, a, allows features which are part of the principal structure, inc] uding but not limited to eaves, cantilevered areas, cornices, canopies, awnings, decks, balconies, steps, ramps, tire escapes, and chimneys. These may extend three feet into the required front, side, and rear sctbacks but in no case shall the setback to these encroachments be less than six feet. This would allow for an 8 foot 6 inch to an 11 foot 8 inch deck addition across the back without needing a variance. A room addition or porch does not qualify for the three- foot exception. . With regard to circumstances Lmique to the property, staff found the property borders property owned by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for protection of Round Lake. There is over 200 feet between the deck and porch area and the ordinary high water mark. The variance can be ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MARCH 13,2000 9 . reduced or rclocated to either side of the home without needing a variance, however, the proposed room addition would not be allowed and the deck would be very small. The current homeowner was not the original homeowner of this property. There are no remarks on the original building permit indicating that the builder was told that a deck would not be allowed from the three patio doors. Other properties in the immediate area have decks in the rear of the home, however, variances were not needed. It does not appear that the neighbors would be impactcd by this addition due to the large lot size and no neighbor to the rear of the property. Ms. Randall advised that the Planning Commission recommends approval of Planning Case #00- 15, rcar yard variance for an addition of deck based on the "Findings - Rear Yard Setback Variance" section ofthe staffreport dated March 1,2000, and with the following condition: 1. If the structure were damaged in excess of the building code threshold for damage, the variance would no longer be valid. Ms. Toni Halverson stated she and her husband purchased the property with 3 sliding glass patio doors, which lead to nowhere, and they wish to be able to use them. Councilmember Grant moved, secondcd by Councilmember Aplikowski to approve Planning Case #00-15, rear yard variance (23 feet 6 inches where 30 feet is required) for an addition of deck based on the "Findings - Rear Yard Setback Variance" section of the staff report dated March I, 2000, and with the following condition: . 1. If the structure were damaged in excess of the building code threshold for damage, the variance would no longer be valid. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). Councilmember Larson asked whether the structure damage condition could be included in the City code as a standard part of all variance requests. Ms. Randall agreed that the condition could be included in all variances. 5. Josephine East Development, Road Request City Administrator Lynch statcd the Lake Josephine East developers had expressed an interest in expcditing an agreement with residents affected by the road easement and construction plans for this development. He added that the developers, Mr. Evcrtz and Mr. Rekuski, were given a 24- month time period in which to negotiate with Ms. Dee Rushenberg, 3168 Shoreline Lane, and Mr. and Mrs. Wesslund, 3167 Shoreline Lane, for acquisition ofthcir property to the City of Arden Hills for the extension of Shoreline Lane. . Mr. Lynch stated the developers have indicated they have been unable to reach a resolution with the residents in question and requested assistance from the City with regard to condemnation procedures. He added the developers felt the neighbors were deliberately dragging their feet. He noted the residents have 12 months to arrive at an agreement v.;th the developer, adding this does not appear to be likely. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MARCH 13,2000 10 . Mayor Probst stated the City had indicated that other options would be considered if no conclusion was reached after 2 years had passed. He added the Council would expect the developer to enter an agreement with the City ensuring all costs would be covered by the developer. He noted the potential outcome of the situation would be legal action, which would result in a decision, based on the appraised value of the properties. Mayor Probst stated he would not support expenditure of City funds for such legal action, adding the situation needs to be resolved and brought to closure and the easements must be captured correct! y. Councilmember Grant asked whether Shoreline Lane proceeds all the way up to the development. Ms. Randall stated the road is short of the Rekuski/Evertz development by 14 feet. She added the portion on the end (approximately 60') is not owned by the City but has been maintained by the City for at least 15 or 20 years. Councilmember Larson asked whether there is anything to be gained by letting the situation go the entire 24 months before taking action. Mr. Lynch stated City staff is working on this issue and hopes it will be resolved soon. Councihnember Rem stated the 24-month period was a condition that did not require City involvement throughout the entire period, but was instigated to give the parties involved some time to gather information and resolve issues. She added she would not support abandoning the 24-month stipulation simply because no progress is being made. . Don Evertz, Lake Josephine East Development, expressed frustration that there has been no progress made since the 24 months period began. He added he will not be able to commence construction, and he does not want to wait another 12 months to resolve the problem. Councilmember Larson stated the previous Council minutes reflect Councilmember Rem's recollection, adding the minutes state the Council might wish to consider condemnation at the end of the 24-month period. Ms. Dee Rushenberg, 3168 Shoreline Lane, stated the developers made an offer in June 1999, which was not an offer to settle, and was not acceptable. She added she is not actively seeking to sell her property and the situation has no benefit for her. She noted the developer's offer does not reflect property values in the neighborhood. Mayor Probst stated tllat Ms. Rushenberg should present a counter-offer to the developers to keep the negotiation moving along. Ms. Rusbenberg stated the developers did not indicate they wanted to negotiate. Mayor Probst stated if the issue were not resolved it would end up in a court oflaw. . Mr. Evertz stated he has never received a counter-offer from the residents, and requested a deadline be imposed on the residents to provide him with a figure, which the residents would find acceptable. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MARCH 13,2000 11 Mayor Probst stated the Council was not in a position to arbitrate a decision, but the Council will eventually get involved ifthe parties can not come to some agreement. He added condemnation proceedings would result in legal action and the City should not incur costs in this process. B. City Hall 1. Architectural Alliance, Authorization to Proceed with Rebid of City Hall 2. Authorize City Engineer to prepare plans and specifications for sewer and water connection Councilmember Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Larson seconded a motion to authorize the City Engineer to prepare plans and specifications for sewer and water connection, and to authorize Architectural Alliance to proceed with the rebid of City Hall. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). ADMINISTRATOR COMMENTS Mr. Lynch stated he had no further comments. COUNCIL COMMENTS Councilmember Grant stated he attended a recent meeting of the Parks & Recreation Committee, adding the nomination of Jim Johnson for Chair of the Board will be on the next Council Worksession agenda. Councilmember Larson stated he has become aware that the Rice Creek Watershed District has been requiring City easements on wetland projects that come before them for approval. He expressed concern that this policy might cause future problems where wetland easements are concerned. Ms. Randall stated she was aware ofthe easement in question, adding that issue was resolved. She agreed it is a potential problem that should be pursued with Rice Creek Watershed Distri ct. Mayor Probst stated this could be a broader issue that will affect many other communities along the watershed district corridor. He added such districts are actively attempting to increase the breadth of their responsibility. Councilmember Aplikowski stated this was discussed at a recent meeting of the Ramsey County League of Cities. Councilmember Larson stated a recent news report highlighted the potential hazards of youth soccer goals that are not anchored. He asked whether the City was aware of this problem. Tom Moore stated all youth soccer goals within tlle City are anchored. Councilmember Larson stated the Water Quality Task Force is scheduled to meet Tuesday, March 14. He added they are excited to bring their recommendations to the Council, adding he suggested they might bring a draft document to the Council Worksession. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MARCH 13,2000 12 . Councilmember Larson stated the Fire Board meeting will be held Wednesday, March 15 to elect a new chair, approve a 5-year capital improvement plan, and discussing funding for self- contained breathing apparatuses. Councilmember Larson stated he received a copy of an email from the chair of the Ingerson review committee which was of some concern to him in terms of its tone, and which seemed like an inquisition. He suggested a representative of the Council might wish to approach the chair to discuss the Council's expectations. Councilmember Larson expressed concern that he has heard remarks circulating that members of the Council support the Ingerson project because it benefits Lake Johanna. He stated it is incorrect to make such statements about the Council's intentions and no conspiracy exists within the Council. Mayor Probst suggested that Councilmember Larson might approach the Ingerson committee chair, adding his understanding was that the Council requested the committee bring recommendations for the streets improvement program. He stressed the Council's continued commitment to improving the neighborhood and involving neighbors in solving the problems rather than creating barriers. . Councilmember Grant stated he received part of the email in question from the Ingerson committee chair, adding he had reviewed the text of a letter directed to residents and he had made some comments with regard to the letter's context and tone. He agreed that the chair, Linda Swanson, should be approached about how to proceed with the project. Councilmember Larson agreed to talk to Linda Swanson with Councilmember Grant. Councilmember Aplikowski asked who should be asked to write a newsletter article about the Ingerson project, which could be a potentially touchy subject. Mayor Probst stated the article should not be handled any differently, adding the article should include basic information about the group. Councilmember Aplikowski stated that had already been done. Mayor Probst stated it would be appropriate to provide an update, include information on upcoming meetings, and identify issues and concerns. Councilmember Grant asked whether minutes would be taken at the meetings. Mayor Probst stated recommendations and actions could be noted. Councilmember Aplikowski stated the Events Committee is very busy with projects regarding City history and researching other cities' 50th anniversary celebrations. She added some interns might be hired to conduct interviews for $3,500, which might be a valid expense. She added such interview tapes would be a valuable resource for the City. . Councilmember Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Larson seconded a motion to appoint Douglas Hartford and Derek Hames to the Events Committee. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MARCH 13,2000 13 . Councilmember Rem stated Oflicer Tim Golden is coordinating the Neighborhood Watch groups and a meeting is scheduled for March 23. She noted that National Night Out would be held August 1,2000. Councilmember Rem noted the Operations and Finance Committee meeting has been canceled for this month as the chair would be out of town. Councilmember Rem stated she has been discussing the City web site with Mr. Lynch, and a task force is ready to be organized to assist with email. She added the issue of a web site designator is still unresolved. Mayor Probst stated the I-35W Corridor Coalition would meet March 29 at 6:30 PM at Shoreview City Hall to update the coalition's activities. He encouraged the Councilmembers to attend. Mayor Probst stated an organizational meeting for the Mayor's Workshops will be held March 28 at 7:30 PM. He added he will be unable to attend and offered the Councilmembers the opportunity to do so. Councilmember Aplikowski agreed to attend. Mayor Probst commended City staff for their timely resolution of a sewer back up on Lake Johanna Boulevard. . Mayor Probst asked whether the Town Hall meeting would be held in conjunction with the City Hall ground breaking. Mr. Lynch stated that Congressman Bruce Vento would not be available the first week in April. Mayor Probst proposed the meeting be postponed until June. Mayor Probst stated he is pleased to see the number of applicants expressing interest in the Associate Planner position. Mr. Lynch agreed, stating he is impressed by the quality of applicants as well. Mayor Probst stated the Council had received a letter from the St. Louis County Board of Commissioners reviewing the State sales tax rebate program last year. He added the City ought to pursue a sales tax rebate, and requested the Council's consideration. Mayor Probst stated he had received a copy of a video from the County entitled "Ramsey Talks", which highlights the Arsenal property. He invited the Council to view the video. Councilmember Rem stated she had attended a Highway 96/Highway 10 meeting last Thursday, at which approximately 40 residents shared their comments and considerations. She added the consensus was that Highway 1 0 should be an overpass, and access was not an issue for the residents. She noted there was not much discussion with regard to project cost. Councilmember Rem stated the representatives from North Heights church were not concerned about access either and they are opposed to ramps as they wish to preserve their property for future expansion. . . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MARCH 13,2000 14 Mayor Probst stated he will be unavailable the week of March 20. ADJOURN MOTION: Councilmember Grant moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to adj n the meeting at 10:12 p.m. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). NOTICE OF MEETINGS The next regular City Council meeting will be held Monday, March 272000 at 7:30 p.m. at the Arden Hills Council chambers.