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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC 04-24-2000 . . . CITY OF ARDEN HILLS, MINNESOTA CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 24, 2000 7:30 P.M. - ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, Mayor Dennis Probst called to order the regular City Council meeting at 7:30 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; City Accountant, Terrance Post; City Attorney, Jerry Filla; and Recording Secretary, Mary Mullen. ADOPT AGENDA MOTION: Councilmember Grant moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to adopt the agenda for the April 24, 2000, regular City Council meeting, with the following addition: Under Item 7, Administrator Comments, Potential DiscussionlNegotiation with regard to development of property on Gateway Boulevard. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. April 10, 1999 Regular Council Meeting Councilmember Rem requested the following change: On page 5, 8th paragraph, 2nd line, replace "fits" with "seems to fit". MOTION: Counci1member Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Larson seconded a motion to approve the meeting minutes ofthe April 10, 2000 Regular Council Meeting, as amended. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). CONSENT CALENDAR A. Claims and Payroll B. Joint Powers Agreement, Cities of Arden Hills and Roseville 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). ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - APRIL 24, 2000 2 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. Ordinance #318, Amending Charitable Gambling Clause, Sec. 4-43, Trade Area Restriction Mr. Post explained that the ordinance amendment under consideration stemmed from the premises permit application from St. Katherine Ukrainian Orthodox Church at the Council's April 10 regular meeting. He added the Council had tabled the premises permit resolution at the meeting. He noted the matter was discussed at the subsequent Council Worksession, and the Council had requested that City staff draft an amendment to Section 4-43 of the City ordinance pertaining to trade area-spending requirements. Mr. Post recommended that the Council consider the addition of a specific definition of lawful purpose use. He added the language used in the proposed amendment reflects what was discussed by the Council at their worksession. . Councilmember Aplikowski expressed concern that the proposed amendment might negatively impact St. Katherine's. She asked what the timing of this amendment would mean. Mr. Post stated the amendment would be effective the day after publication. He added that S1. Katherine's application would be addressed at tonight's meeting, and would not be further delayed. Councilmember Aplikowski asked whether the applicant must adhere to the amended ordinance. Mr. Filla recommended that the Council coordinate the effective date ofthe ordinance amendment with the effective date of the premises permit. He noted this would only be the case if it was the Council's intent that the ordinance amendment should apply to the premises permit. Mr. Filla stated the Council should add a statement to Resolution #00-17 clarifying that it would be effective following the publication ofthe ordinance amendment. Councilmember Aplikowski asked whether the premises permit applicant was made aware that this would be occur. Mr. Post confirmed they were aware ofthe amendment. Mayor Probst noted that the proposed amendment is already incorporated into state law. Mr. Filla confirmed this, adding that state law identifies specific reasons for revoking or suspending licenses. He noted the regulations could only be enforced by issuance of a citation, which allows the Gambling Control Board to make specific findings, which authorize the use of proceeds. . Council member Rem asked whether the operation of a church would be considered a lawful purpose. Mr. Filla explained that the State defines a lawful purpose by a number of examples. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - APRIL 24, 2000 3 MOTION: Councilmember Larson moved and Councilmember Grant seconded a motion to approve Ordinance #318, amending charitable gambling clause, Section 4-43, Trade Area Restriction. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). B. Resolution #00-17, St. Katherine Ukrainian Orthodox Church Charitable Gambling Bingo Hall, Premises Permit Mr. Post stated that the applicant was present at the meeting to answer questions, and no new information was obtained by City staff. He added the applicant was made aware ofthe possible ordinance amendment. Mr. Frank Belgea, an employee of the Pot O'Gold Bingo Hall and representative of St. Katherine's, stated that his organization understands the changes that have been made, and finds them acceptable. Mayor Probst asked whether the permit approval should only be effective after the publication of the ordinance amendment. Mr. Filla confirmed this, adding the ordinance amendment will not become law until the day following its publication. He noted that if the resolution was made effective today, the ordinance amendment would not apply to this particular applicant. Mr. Filla recommended the Council select a date in the middle of May to ensure the ordinance amendment has been published. He added that the applicant must make the application within 60 days of the approval of the resolution. Mr. Belgea confirmed that this was not a problem. MOTION: Councilmember Grant moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to approve Resolution #00-17, approving St. Katherine Ukrainian Orthodox Church Charitable Gambling Bingo Hall, Premises Permit Application, subject to the following condition: 1. The application should take effect no earlier than May 15,2000. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). C. Planning Cases 1. Case #00-]6, Special Use Permit, Antenna on Red Fox Water Tower Mr. Lynch explained that the applicant is requesting a Special Use Permit and Site Plan review to allow for the placement of antennas on the side of the municipal water tower and an electronic equipment building to be located at 1230 Red Fox Road. The antennas require electronic equipment to be located on the ground. The applicant is proposing this to be at the southwest side of the water tower using a shared drive with Sprint PCS, which was approved in January 2000. The proposed building would be 8 x 12 feet and constructed out of a brick to match the existing two buildings on the site. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - APRIL 24, 2000 4 Landscaping has been proposed to add screening of the equipment building. Staff has some concerns with the amount of trees planted on the site. Maintenance of the site requires about 90 inches between trees and other structures. Staff recommends arborvitae be planted a minimum of six (6) feet tall and run along the entire south property line, in place of the proposed five trees. Staff has received a concern from a neighboring business that currently has a 900 MHz fire sprinkler system. The concern is that the antenna might negatively affect the fire protection system. The applicant has stated the antennas should not affect the existing systems. Mr. Lynch noted that Staff received a letter from Resistance Technology, Inc., with concerns about the antennas affecting hearing aid equipment. He added the Council may wish to request that the applicant participate in cost share for a possible impact study. Mr. Lynch advised that the Planning Commission recommends approval of Planning Case #00- 16, Special Use Permit, witll 10 conditions. Councilmember Aplikowski asked how Resistance Technology knows that there will be interference. Steve Katkov, a representative of Aerial Communications, explained that FCC, which governs all issues relating to interference, has regulations which make it the responsibility of a landowner to protect its own equipment. He added his company would be glad to perform a standard frequency study at their own cost using the City engineer or another local engineer. Councilmember Aplikowski asked why a study would be required unless a problem is known to exist. Mayor Probst stated that such a study is standard procedure. Councilmember Larson asked what the cost of such a study might be. Mr. Katkov stated the study could cost up to $750 depending upon the engineer hired. Councilmember Larson stated that the Planning Commission had expressed concern with regard to future proposals and the overall site plan. He added the Council might want to consider this issue. Mayor Probst stated there is no way to predict what the space needs will be on the site, and the Council is not in the business of being landlord. He added the condition requiring the same materials for all buildings is a positive step. Council member Grant asked whether Aerial's equipment would work if they operated outside their frequencies. Mr. Kakoff stated the equipment would work but the FCC would suspend their operation. Councilmember Rem stated the letter mentions that current conditions are not acceptable, and added the concerns must be clarified with regard to the current case. Mayor Probst stated the Council is not required to assure their profitability as a business. Councilmember Larson suggested the Council might want to consider marketing the City's water towers as possible sites for future ventures. He asked how many antennas a tower could accommodate. Mr. Katkov stated his company utilizes 70 water towers and is under negotiations ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - APRIL 24, 2000 5 . for another 20 towers. He noted the City of Eagan has two (2) towers that have five (5) commercial carrier antennas each. Councilmember Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Larson seconded a motion to approve Planning Case #00-16, Special Use Permit and Site Plan Review, subject to the following conditions: MOTION: 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 SUP shall be reviewed and the City may impose other restrictions or conditions as warranted. 3. Sprint lease and Special Use Permit be modified and approved by both Sprint and the City of Arden Hills to accommodate the relocation of the drive access and landscaping. No welding shall be done on the water tower tanle The driveway leading from the existing drive to the equipment building should be bituminous to match the existing drive. The equipment building should be constructed in similar material to the existing buildings. The landscaping include a row of arborvitae along the entire south property line. The applicant relocates trees to be removed and relocated on the site if Sprint has not completed this prior to the construction of the drive. Applicant will be responsible for snow removal along the proposed drive. The antenna will not interfere with 900mh fire sprinkler systems in the area. Applicant will complete an intermodulation study. 4. 5. 6. 7. . 8. 9. 10. 11. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). a. Lease Agreement with Aerial Communications Mr. Post stated that Staff received the lease agreement late last week and had not studied it thoroughly. Mr. Filla stated the lease agreement is the same as the agreement with Sprint Communications, adding both are non-exclusive with regard to easements allowed on the site. He added he would wish to have assurance from Sprint that they are aware of the site proposal and they are not opposed to it. Steve Carlson, a representative from Sprint PCS, stated his organization has seen the Aerial's site plan and they agree to amend their site plan to allow Aerial to co-exist on the site. . MOTION: Councilmember Larson moved and Councilmember Grant seconded a motion to approve the site agreement between the City of Arden Hills and Aerial Communications. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - APRIL 24, 2000 6 . 2. Case #OO-17a, pun Amendment, Welsh, 1987 and 1887 Gateway Boulevard Mr. Lynch explained that the applicant has two separate requests amending the Planned Unit Development for 1987 and 1887 Gateway Boulevard. The first is to allow the placement of two exterior solvent storage tanks, a catalytic oxidizer, and to expand an existing dock door at 1887 Gateway Blvd. The second is to modify the existing Planned Unit Development to allow for staff approval for certain requests. This portion of the request was tabled and is still being reviewed by the Planning Commission. The applicant is requesting permission to install an oxidizer and solvent storage tanks on site. The oxidizer removes solvent emissions that are ducted from the printing presses. The applicant claims it removes 98 percent of the solvent vapors from the process. The solvent storage tanks hold normal propyl and ethyl alcohol. They are both classified flammable liquids. The tanks will meet the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) requirements. A building permit is required for the installation and the tanks will need to meet the building/fire code. The applicant plans to screen these areas with cedar wood fencing painted to match the building. The fencing will not screen the pipes entering the building. Staff would suggest bollards be placed at each corner of the solvent tank fencing and one bollard on the corner of the oxidizer . fencing. The applicant is proposing two bays be filled with blow-out panels, one be expanded to 14 feet by 14 feet, and the elimination of a stairway/entry door in front of the oxidizer. It also appears that the door in front of the solvent tanks will not be usable once the tanks are installed. Staff has some concerns with the use of the dock door next to the oxidizer. It appears this will be a very tight area with the possibility of the fence being damaged. Staff recommends this bay not be used once the oxidizer is in place. Mr. Lynch stated the Planning Commission recommends approval of Planning Case #OO-17a, Planned Unit Development Amendment, to allow for a Catalytic Oxidizer, two solvent storage tanks, and the enlargement of and existing dock door with 6 conditions. Donna Becker, a representative of Welsh Companies, stated that her company is flexible with regard to fencing. Councilmember Larson expressed his support ofthe amendment, but added he is concerned that the development has many trash enclosures built back in loading and parking areas, and now tanks and an oxidizer are being added, He stated that if the trend continues, the development will be completely altered from the original site plan approved by the Council. . Councilmember Larson stated that a suggestion was made by the Planning Commission that wing walls be constructed to provide some screening for those buildings from the road. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - APRIL 24, 2000 7 . Ms. Becker stated that industrial tenants prefer to have their own trash enclosures, and her company ensures that they, and the exterior of the building, are well maintained. Councilmember Larson stated the buildings would be more attractive from the road with the addition of wing walls or landscape screening. Ms. Becker stated there is landscape screening throughout the property, between the buildings and along the property lines. Councilmember Larson stated some screening is required at the entrance to the parking lots from the main road. Ms. Becker stated the buildings were positioned for visibility from the freeway interchange. Mayor Probst stated he supports the amendment, but agrees that the enclosures were not envisioned in the original site plan. He expressed his frustration over the difference between what the Council approved and what has occurred on the site. MOTION: I. . 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Councilmember Larson moved and Councilmember Grant seconded a motion to approve Planning Case #00-17a, Planned Unit Development Amendment, to allow for a Catalytic Oxidizer, two solvent tanks, and the enlargement of an existing dock door with the following conditions: A minimum of three protective bollards be placed to protect the fence structure. Dock door closest to the oxidizer not be used once the oxidizer is in place. Solvent tank and Oxidizer screening be cedar wood construction painted to match the building. Screen all rooftop mechanical devices per code requirements. Placement of Solvent tanks meet Building/Fire code regulations. No detectable odors from the printing process be present on the exterior of the building. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). 3. Case #00-18, SUP Amendment, Mounds View High School, 1900 Valentine Lake Road Mr. Lynch explained that the applicant is requesting approval of an amendment to their Special Use Permit for Mounds View Senior High School. Mounds View Senior High School is currently operating on an SUP, which was issued in September 1978, in Planning Case #78-23. In February 1984, the City Council approved a SUP for the site Master Plan, only a Site Plan review process would be required rather than amending the SUP. Staff has determined that due to the building addition and major changes proposed we will process the request as a SUP amendment. In the future, minor changes would still be able to be processed as a Site Plan Review. The intention of the Master Plan is to establish the long range vision for the campus, including a physical plan and also specific land use control. . . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - APRIL 24, 2000 8 The property has five access points off of Lake Valentine Road. The applicant is proposing to eliminate one of the access points. The campus currently has one main loop for busses and cars for drop off and pick up of students, The proposed plan would modifY this, creating a separate loop for bus traffic and car traffic. They are also proposing an emergency vehicle drive looping entirely around the school. The applicant proposes to remove the baseball field and add three full-sized soccer fields and one practice field. The baseball field will not be relocated on this site. City ordinance requires one (1) parking space for each school employee as well as one (1) space per four (4) students. The site should have a total of 689 parking spaces, according to school enrollment. They are currently under the required number of parking spaces. Staff has had several problems with parking around the school. There are "No Parking" signs in several areas. The Public Works Director has responded to the problems created by students' parking on public streets around the school. The number of parking spaces on site determines the amount of handicapped parking required. The school currently has 16 handicapped parking spaces. The proposed plan shows 474 parking spaces, and 9 handicapped spaces would be required. The applicant is proposing a total of 12 handicapped spaces. This meets the amount of handicapped parking required; however, the school should have 663 parking spaces, thus requiring 14 handicapped parking spaces. According to zoning ordinance, all fixtures must direct light away from adjoining lots and public streets, the source of illumination must be concealed, and the fixtures must not cast light that exceeds one foot candle on adjoining property. The proposed lighting plan meets these requirements. It has recently been brought to Staffs attention that several residents have concerns with regard to the lights installed last fall on the south side ofthe parking lot. The lights were approved by Staff with the stipulation that they meet the lighting ordinance. It is Staffs understanding that one of the concerns includes the color ofthc lighting. The new lights are white, and lighting in the past has been yellow. We do not currently have color restrictions for lighting. It is Staffs understanding that some of the existing lights are on timers Staff recommends that all lighting (with the exception of security lighting) be on timers to be shut off by 10:00 p.m., unless there is a school event which is later than 10:00 p.m. The applicant has made several modifications to the proposed plan presented to the Planning Commission, Some ofthe items include turn-a-round areas requested by the Fire Inspector, reduction in the building addition in two locations, and the addition of29 parking spaces. The Planning Commission recommended the proposed plan be reconfigured for a zero loss in parking from the current number of parking spaces located on the property. The applicant has modified the proposed plan to add parking showing five additional spaces to the existing parking. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - APRIL 24, 2000 9 Some of the parking stalls and drive widths do not meet the City Zoning Code standards. The parking spaces along the tennis courts are only 17 feet long, where 18 feet is required. Staff also has some concerns with the traffic flow into the main parking lot and to the back parking stalls. The width is 20 feet where 24 feet is required. The parking spaces that close to the entrance may cause problems. Staff would recommend redesigning this area. Mr. Lynch stated the Planning Commission recommends approval of the amendment to the Special Use Permit (updating the Master Plan) in Planning Case 00-18 subject to seven (7) conditions. Mayor Probst asked whether the required parking is driven by student population. Mr. Lynch eonfinned that the number of required parking spaces is based on student and staff population. Tom Fabick, a representative of Annstrong, Torseth, Skold & Rydeen, stated there had been much discussion at the Planning Commission meeting with regard to parking. He added that no increase in student population is anticipated, and most high schools have similar problems. Mr. Fabick stated the building additions are proposed to enhance educational programs. He added an investigation has been commenced into the electrical and control issues with regard to the parking lot lighting. Mr. Fabick stated that School District staff had been concerned about running the water main through the athletic fields to Gramsie Road. He added a new proposal had been discussed which would run the water main around the field and add some length to the water main but would be less disruptive to the fields. He noted that the School District is willing to participate in the water main costs. Council member Larson asked whether the existing white lights in the parking lot would be replaced, as requested by Ms. Elizabeth Garski in her letter to the Council. Mr. Fabick stated there is no ordinance regarding the color of parking lot lighting. He added that white lights are brighter, and school statfhave indicated they feel more safe in the parking lot at night with white lights. He noted there are some white lights and some yellow lights, and the School District could review their policy over time. Councilmember Larson asked whether Ms. Garski's concerns with regard to removal of the garbage dumpster to another location would be addressed. Mr. Fabick stated that kitchen and deliveries areas are near that location and trash pickup is required there. He added he understands that trash pickup timing issues are no longer a problem. Councilmember Larson asked whether the School District will go ahead with the water main if the City does not contribute funds. Mr. Fabick stated that the smaller water main on Valentine Lake Road could be utilized, but fire pumps would be required, and the Fire Department is not happy with that solution. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - APRIL 24, 2000 10 Elizabeth Garski, 1795 Valentine Lake Road, asked whether the parking lot timers could be moved indoors so that night staff could more easily regulate them. Mr. Fabick agreed that would be the logical solution. Mayor Probst asked why the lights in the parking lot are two (2) different colors. Mr. Fabick stated the lights were installed before he began working on the project. He added that their electrical engineer is working to resolve the timer and control issues on the parking lots, and to get the timers inside the building. Councilmember Larson stated he would support the addition of a condition that would require the parking near the tennis courts be redesigned to the satisfaction of Staff. Mr. Lynch expressed concern that the student street parking issues have not been addressed, and requested that the Council consider requiring the School District to meet with the City to devise a plan to deal with the parking problems. Mayor Probst agreed that it would be a worthwhile attempt to encourage staff and students to cooperate in a formalized manner with neighborhood residents. Mr. Filla stated that it should not appear that the Council is approving a variance for parking without a reason. MOTION: Councilmember Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Larson seconded a motion to approve Planning Case #00-18, Special Use Permit Amendment, Mounds View High School, 1900 Valentine Lake Road, with the following conditions: 1. Compliance with the height for structures. 2. Approval of Rice Creek Watershed District. 3. Compliance with the Lighting Standards of the Zoning Ordinance. 4. All lighting (except a select few for security) be on timers to be shut off by 10:00 p.m., unless there is a school event which is later than 10:00 p.m. 5. Remove temporary classrooms. 6. Add three fire hydrants as requested by the Fire Inspector. 7. Parking be reconfigured for 0 loss from current number of parking spaces located on property. 8. Parking area near the tennis courts be redesigned to the satisfaction of Stafl. 9. School District staflmeet with City staff to discuss possible solutions to parking issues. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). A. Water Line Extension Request Mr. Lynch stated that Stahl Construction is representing the School District and has been authorized to work on their behalf. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - APRIL 24, 2000 11 Councilmember Larson stated he finds it hard to justify the City's contribution to the project. He added the school does not generate any property tax revenue, and the high school serves many other communities. He noted the City would not be undertaking this project ifthe school were not being improved. He expressed doubt that City tax dollars should be spent on this project. Mayor Probst stated the City would normally provide a water service to any entity. He added the proposal is a reasonable one. Council member Rem stated the project is a good opportunity for the City, and seems sensible. Council member Grant stated he would support the water main line from Gramsie Road, and the funding of the portion from Gramsie Road to the property line. Councilmember Aplikowski stated she would wish to see the City share the cost of acquiring the easements, representing compromise on both sides. Mr. Lynch expressed concern that the whole system be implemented at the same time, since without a contract there would be no way to force the School District to make the connection. He added it will be necessary to ensure that the project is completed as a loop. Mayor Probst agreed that a reimbursement agreement requiring the School District to complete their portion would be sensible. Mr. Stafford stated that itemized bids could be written in such a way to separate the easement portion from the rest of the project, thus leaving the City responsible only for the agreed upon portion. Councilmember Rem asked why additional easement must be purchased. Mr. Stafford stated the existing easement is not sufficiently wide and additional easement is required. Councilmember Larson stated he is unclear as to how much the project will cost. Mr. Stafford stated a figure of $2 per square foot was used to calculate easement acquisition, for a total of $6,000 for 3,000 square feet. He added that pipe is approximately $25 per foot for an approximate total of $20-25,000 with restoration. MOTION: Councilmember Rem moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to authorize City staff to cooperate with the School District in drafting an agreement for sharing ofthe project. Voting on the motion: Probst, Grant, Aplikowski and Rem voted aye. Larson voted nay. The motion carried (4-1). 4. Case #00-19, Front Yard Setback Variance, Jeff LaNassa, 3153 Shoreline Lane Mr. Lynch explained that the applicant is requesting approval of a front yard setback variance (27 square feet proposed, when 40 feet is required) for an addition and two car garage on a single-family lot zoned R-2, . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - APRIL 24, 2000 12 The applicant currently does not have a garage or driveway. The applicant utilizes a few parking spaces on a short drive just otT Shoreline Lane, The proposed garage would be 643 square feet (23' 6" by 27' -4"). The garage is proposed to be 27' -4"; however, the applicant is proposing a 3- foot wide stairway in the rear of the garage. The addition is proposed to be 25 x 28 teet and would have additional bedroom space. To connect an addition or garage to the house, two bedrooms would be eliminated leaving only one bedroom. The new addition would create four small bedrooms. The addition and garage will be constructed using similar materials to the existing home. Staff looked tor alternative locations such as reducing the addition or moving the garage and addition to run along the front of the home. The lot has the space to accommodate the addition and garage in the buildable area; however, the slope from Shoreline Lane to the front of the home would create a drainage problem for the garage. The addition alone does not show a hardship. A garage could be constructed on this site without direct access to the home; thus no reduction in bedrooms would occur. However, if the garage is constructed at or behind the required 40 foot setback there would be some drainage issues due to the very steep slope. The front entrance is in the center of the home. An addition blocking the front door would make entry to the home confusing for visitors. The slope of the lot makes it difficult to add a garage in front of the existing home without causing drainage problems. Other properties in the immediate area have a similar setback. The property currently does not have a garage. The proposed garage is not larger than necessary (standard two car). Moving the addition and garage back would cause drainage problems. There are ways of draining water around tlle garage entrance; however, these tend to freeze in the winter/spring, causing problems. The addition could be minimized allowing the garage to be moved back; however, drainage problems will occur. The additional bedrooms would not be needed if the existing bedrooms were not disturbed by a hallway. Mr. Lynch advised the Planning Commission recommends approval of Planning Case #00-19, front yard setback variance (27 feet proposed where 40 is required) for an addition and garage with one (1) condition. MOTION: Councilmember Larson moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to approve Planning Case #00-19, Front Yard Setback Variance, Jeff LaNassa, 3153 Shoreline Lane, with the following condition: l. If the structure is damaged in excess of the building code threshold for damage, the variance would no longer be valid. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - APRIL 24, 2000 13 . ADMINISTRATOR COMMENTS Mr. Lynch stated he had received correspondence from Chesapeake Companies with regard to the potential purchase of properties from Morris Communication. He added they are requesting the Council's consideration of the creation of 2 small parcels to include areas along Highway 694 to allow access to advertising signs. He noted this should be discussed at the next Council Worksession. Mayor Probst requested that Staff review the request in preparation for the worksession. COUNCIL COMMENTS AND COMMITTEE ACTIVITY REPORTS Councilmember Grant stated that the Ingerson Neighborhood Review Group met April 18 to discuss roadway design, drainage and water quality issues with the City engineer. He added the task force's next meeting will be May 2 at which the Maplewood Public Works Director will review raingardens deployed in that city. COlmcilmember Grant noted that a celebrity, Rick Rockwell, had been pumping gas at the Texaco Station on County Road E that morning, and the City was mentioned on the radio and on television. Councilmember Grant stated the Parks & Recreation Committee will meet April 25 for a tour of . all City parks. He added the committee will review the budgeting process for 2000. Councilmember Larson stated the Water Quality Task Force will meet April 25, adding he will not be able to attend. COlmcilmember Larson asked whether the building inspector arrangement with Shoreview would end. Mr. Lynch confirmed this, adding similar arrangements with other cities are being considered. Councilmember Larson asked whether the senior discount on sewer rates was still under consideration by the Operations and Finance Committee. Councilmember Aplikowski stated the issue was dropped after poll results at the last meeting. Councilmember Aplikowski stated the Operations and Finance Committee had also reviewed the senior water rate, and the consensus was mixed. Mayor Probst expressed disappointment that no action was recommended on this issue, adding he believes it should be discussed further. Councilmember Aplikowski expressed disappointment that the Ingerson Road reconstruction project is being prolonged. She added she had hoped some decisions would have been made by the end of May. . Councilmember Aplikowski noted that the Pioneer Press newspaper mistakenly printed "New Brighton" over the Arden Hills area on a map depicting the northern suburbs. Mr. Lynch stated he had contacted the Pioneer Press regarding this misprint. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - APRIL 24, 2000 14 . Councilmember Aplikowski stated the City Events Task Force had met last week, and the publication of the history booklet is moving ahead. She added the newsletter committee will meet on April 26. Councilmember Aplikowski stated she would attend the Association of Metropolitan Municipalities (AMM) meeting. Councilmember Rem stated she had three (3) more residents interested in participating on the Web Site Development Task Force. Councilmember Rem stated she would attend the Water Quality Task Force meeting on April 25th as a substitute for Councilmember Larson. Counci1member Rem stated the Northwest Youth & Family Services completed their audit last week, and are currently developing an endowment program. She distributed brochures regarding their Midsummer Day bike ride on May 20. Councilmember Rem stated she met with Bethel College regarding human rights and diversity Issues. Councilmember Rem stated she had received positive feedback from residents regarding . availability of City Council meeting videotapes at the library. Councilmember Rem stated that the Council might wish to invite the Operations and Finance Committee to attend an upcoming Council Worksession. She noted the Committee would benefit t'j-om a discussion with the Council regarding old issues, new directions, and a list of priorities and approaches. Mayor Probst stated he would like to discuss County Road I road improvements at an upcoming worksession. Mayor Probst stated he received various correspondence, including a standard response from Senator Vento's office, as well as a copy of a letter from the Sheriffs office notifying the City of its sharc of a DWI forfeit vehicle totaling $1,031.50 Hc added he also received a letter from the Ramscy County Action Program requesting the City's support of and active participation in their programs. Mr. Lynch notcd that the new Planner, Jennifer Chaput, was present at the meeting, and introduced her to thc Council. The Council welcomed Ms. Chaput. . . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - APRIL 24, 2000 15 ADJOURN MOTION: CounciImember Grant moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to adjourn the meeting at 9:48 p.m. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). Dennis Probst Mayor NOTICE OF MEETINGS The next regular City Council mceting will be held Monday, May 8, 2000 at 7:30 p.m. at the Arden Hills Council chambers.