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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC 07-10-2000 . . . CITY OF ARDEN HILLS, MINNESOTA CITY COUNCIL MEETING JULY 10, 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, and Lois Rem. Absent: Counci]member Gregg Larson. Also present were City Administrator, Joe Lynch; Public Works Director, Dwayne Stafford; City Planner, Jennifer Chaput; and Recording Secretary, Mary Mullen. ADOPT AGENDA MOTION: Councilmember Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Rem seconded a motion to adopt the agenda for the July 10, 2000, regular City Council meeting, as submitted. The motion carried unanimously (4-0). APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. June ]2,2000 Regular Council Meeting Councilmember Grant requested the following changes: On page 2, 2nd paragraph, replace "Mr." witIl "Councilmember". On page 2, 2nd paragraph from bottom, replace "County Road B" with "County Road E". B. June 19,2000 Council Worksession C. June 26, 2000 Regular Council Meeting Mayor Probst requested the following change: On page 13, last paragraph, strike the last sentence beginning with "Mayor Probst stated the Department of Transportation is moving away. . ." Councilmember Aplikowski requested the following change: On page 13, 3rd paragraph, replace "June 21" with ".Tune 28". MOTION: Councilmember Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Rem seconded a motion to approve the meeting minutes as amended. The motion carried unanimously (4- 0). . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - July 10,2000 2 CONSENT CALENDAR A. B. C. Claims and Payroll Probationary Appointment, Intern, Daniel C. Gorder 2000 Seal coat Bids Councilmember Rem asked, with regard to the seal coat bids, whether the Lake Johanna Fire Station parking lot and Trinity Church parking lot would be included as discussed. Mr. Lynch stated the Fire Department approved the sealcoating but requested advanced notice. He added he has not heard from the church. MOTION: Councilmember Grant moved and Council member Aplikowski seconded a motion to approve the Consent Calendar and authorize execution of all necessary documents contained therein. The motion carried unanimously (4-0). PUBLIC COMMENTS Mayor Probst invited those present to come forward and address tile Council on any items not already on the agenda. There were no public comments. UNFINISHED AND NEW BUSINESS A. Planning Cases 1. Case #00-14, 3491 Lake Johanua Boulevard, Variance, Mertensotto Ms. Chaput explained the request by the applicant is for a variance from the corner side yard setback requirements (12 feet proposed when 40 is required) for a porch addition on a single- family lot zoned R-2. The applicant made application for a corner side yard setback variance that came before the Planning Commission in March of this year. At that time, his plan showed a porch on the rear and side of the property. This proposal was for a porch of approximately 4 x 17' on the southeast side and 8 x 14' on the northeast side. The Planning Commission made a rccommendation that the variance for a corner side yard variance (7 feet where 40 is required) be approved with the condition that the 8 x 14' proposed construction on the northeast side of the house be eliminated. This application and recommendation went to the Council meeting on March 13,2000 at which time it was tabled. At that time, the applicant was modifYing the drawings. The sixty day time period was extended on this application and then waived by the applicant at the May 8, 2000 City Council meeting. New plans were also provided at this meeting. Therefore, since the original variance request has been modified, the applicant went back to the Planning Commission for review of the proposal. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - July 10, 2000 3 In the new proposal, the applicant took into consideration the Planning Commission's recommendation to eliminate the 8' x 14' section of the porch on the side ol'the house. However, it was not completely eliminated and an area of II 'x 6' x 2' -8' continues to remain on the northeast side ofthe house. In addition to this change, the southeast portion of the porch was enlarged to approximately 7' x 14' in the new plans. The house currently is 15.37 feet (where 40 feet is required) from the right-of-way line. The house was built (moved) prior to the current setback restrictions. It appears at one time (duc to some existing footings) there was a porch approximately 5 x 8 feet in front of the door. However, the original porch area was nonconforming and when it was removed, it lost its nonconforming rights and can not be rebuilt, per Section IX (J) ofthe Zoning Ordinance. The original variance was reduced on the northeast side of the structure by reducing the 8' x 14' foot section to 2' x II'. The proposed 2' encroachment is permitted into a required setback area (up to 3' as long as the encroachment does not bring the structure closer than 6' to the property line). However, this variance was increased on the southeast side of the structure at the same time that it was reduced on the northeast side. Ms. Chaput stated that the Planning Commission recommends denial of Planning Case #00-14, a corner side yard setback variance (12 feet where 40 is required) for a porch addition at 3491 Lake Johanna Boulevard, based on 2 findings. Councilmember Aplikowski stated that the Council had discussed the possibility of landscaping as a condition of approval on this planning case. Mayor Probst inquired whether that possible condition had been discussed with Mr. Mertensotto. He added the Council had discussed a finding of fact which would allow the Council to approve the variance, and some other issues as mitigating factors, one of which was the historic nature ofthe property of which the garage is not a part. Mayor Probst asked whether Mr. Mertensotto would be amenable to the possible condition that landscaping be completed at the back area of the property. Mr. Mertensotto stated he is in the process of removing old, overgrown trees near the garage and plans to plant evergreens there to provide more screening and reduce noise for the current residents. He added he has provided some screening to the southeast of the home. Mr. Mertensotto stated that the soil at tl1e north end of the property near the garage is poor due to sanding and salting of the roads, and grass will not grow there. Hc added he plans to screen the driveway area to give the residents more privacy. Mayor Probst asked whether Mr. Mertensotto would be willing to accept a condition that required him to work with City staff on an appropriate landscaping plan, and to commit to a timetable for completion. Mr. Mertensotto stated he would be happy to talk to staff and get some ideas. He added he hopes to reflect the prairie style of thc nearby park under construction. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - July 10,2000 4 Councilmember Aplikowski stated that she would want the home to be painted to match the atmosphere ofthat corner as well as the landscaping scheme. Mr. Mertensotto stated he has already begun to paint the home, and neighbors have expressed their appreciation of the color. Mayor Probst asked whether the Council was on solid ground requiring additional improvements based on the location of the property. Mr. Lynch stated he would be more comfortable with requirements based on physical limitations rather than proposed historical significance. Councilmember Aplikowski stated that any addition to the exterior of the home would make it more attractive, adding she is willing to approve the request with whatever conditions are imposed. Mr. Mertensotto stated that the current residents have some cleanup issues to resolve. He added this seems to be improving. Councilmember Aplikowski stated it could be asked that tl1e property be cleaned up as soon as possible. MOTION: Councilmember Aplikowski moved and Council member Grant seconded a motion to approve Planning Case #00-14, a corner side yard setback variance (12 feet where 40 is required) for a porch addition at 3491 Lake Johanna Boulevard, with the following conditions: 1. A physical hardship is created by the unique geometry of the lot and the placement of the existing structures as a result of the location of the two (2) public streets abutting the property; The applicant will work with staff on a landscaping plan with an appropriate timetable for completion, as well as address the current zoning 2. The motion carried unanimously (4-0). B. City Events Task Force Recommendation Councilmember Aplikowski stated that the City Events Task Force agreed on the title of "A Golden Celebration" for the City's 50th anniversary celebration. She added the task force hopes to use that name on the event logo. Councilmember Aplikowski stated the task force is proposing that the event be held Saturday, June 23, 2001 at Tony Schmidt Park. Councilmember Aplikowski stated thc task force is working on a variety of events and activities. She added a history book is planned, costs for which are estimated at $15,000. She added the task force has put together an estimated budget of $35,000. She noted the group plans a parade and fireworks among other events. Councilmember Aplikowski stated shc was unsure of the cost of this year's Day in the Park. Mr. Lynch stated the actual cost of thc event was $5,1 00, excluding stafftime. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - July 10, 2000 5 . Councilmember Aplikowski stated the City Events Task Force recommends that the preliminary budget for the 50th anniversary celebration and the 2001 Day in the Park event of$50,000 be approved. She added the group wants to know if the City will contribute any funding toward the event and if so, how much. Councilmember Rem asked whether construction in Tony Schmidt Park would be completed. Mr. Lynch stated the 50th armivcrsary celebration is scheduled near the time that the County plans a grand re-opening for the park. Councilmember Aplikowski stated the task force has confirmed that the proposed date is acceptable to the County. Mayor Probst statcd, in his opinion, it is appropriate for the City to provide some funding for thc event, adding he is unsure what the appropriate level of support would be. He added he is not in favor of making the celebration a corporate-sponsored event. He noted he recalled some discussion with regard to the fireworks display. Council member Aplikowski stated she would favor foregoing the fireworks display, which extends the day, adds to the total cost, and will require more staff time. She added that location of the fireworks display is problematic for her, as approval from the lake homeowner's association might be required. She noted it would be a good way to cut costs. . Mayor Probst stated he supports tile fireworks display, which is a good opportunity to recreate the fireworks over the lake of past years for the 50th anniversary. He added tIlat a fireworks display is a tangible item that might encourage contributions. Councilmember Grant expressed concern with regard to determining an appropriate level of funding from the City. He stated that the proposed budget of $50,000 is 10 times the amount of funding required for this year's Day in the Park. He added that he would wish the task forcc to produce a breakdown of costs rather than presenting a dollar amount. Councilmember Aplikowski stated the fireworks display is estimated at $23,000, and $15,000 is being allocated for the history book that may be written off by a foundation. Mayor Probst stated he would ask that the task force review costs associated with each proposed event, and identify which categories the City should fund. Councilmember Aplikowski stated the task force has a budget committee. She added that she believes such requirements would be acceptable to the task force, Councilmember Aplikowski stated the task force was also reviewing the issue of banners displaying the anniversary celebration logo to be placed throughout the city. Chuck Mertensotto stated ifhe were on the task force, he would wish the Council to specify whcther fireworks are desirable. He added that buttons and other commemorative collector's items could be sold to assist with fundraising. . Councilmember Aplikowski asked for a consensus on the issue of fireworks. Mayor Probst stated he would support a fireworks display. Councilmember Grant stated another use for the . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - July 10,2000 6 proposcd $23,000 cost of fireworks might be found. He added he might support foregoing fireworks and opting for something else. Councilmember Rem stated she is undecided on the issue of fireworks but added if there is a fireworks display she would wish to see it over the lake at night. Mayor Probst stated the City has a few options: thc City events could be nmded out of the general fund or the Community Services account. He re-iterated that he is supportive of some level of funding, but added he is unsure how much would be appropriate. He added he does not believe $50,000 in funding is appropriate. Mr. Mertensotto stated that a charitable food could be created so tIlat donations would be tax- deductible. Councilmember Aplikowski stated she believes that is a lengthy process. Mr. Mertcnsotto stated something might already exist which could be used. C. Lake Johanna Volunteer Fire Department, Proposed 2001 Operating Budget and Capital Improvement PIau Mr. Lynch stated that the Joint Fire Board, consisting of the Cities of Arden Hills, North Oaks and Shoreview, discussed and reviewed the proposed 2001 Operating Budget, and the 2001 Capital Improvement Plan Budget, for the Lake Johanna Volunteer Fire Department (LJVFD). They are recommending to each respective City Council to approve both the 2001 Operating Budget and the 2001 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) as presented. The proposed increase to the City is 1.7% on the 2001 Operating Budget. The total budget amount proposed is $177,084.38. The CIP Budget for 2001 is $7,000. This is to sealcoat tl1e parking lot at Fire Station No.1. A recommendation will go back to thc Chief to have this bid as part of the City sealcoat project for 2000. Due to the price quoted, staff believes the City can complete this project and sealcoat the Hazelnut Park parking lot, as well as the designated streets for under the budgeted amount Jor 2000. Councilmember Grant asked whether this was the same budget reviewed at a recent worksession. Mr. Lynch confirmed this. Councilmember Aplikowski stated that this is a more timely presentation of the budget than has been seen in the past. Councilmember Rem asked whether any comment had been received from Councilmember Larson on the subject, as he is the Council Liaison. Mr. Lynch stated Councilmember Larson had indicated that he requested a Fire ReJieffunding overview from the Fire Department. MOTION: Councilmember Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Grant seconded a motion to approve the 2001 Operating Budget and the 2001 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) Budget, for the Lake Johanna Volunteer Fire Department (LJVFD), as presented. The motion carried unanimously (4-0). . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - July 10, 2000 7 Mr. Lynch stated, in addition, that a discussion was also held by the Fire Board about the status of the full-time Chief process. Fire Chief Schreier updated the Fire Board on the decision by the LJVFD to proceed with a Phase I and Phase II process, with the Brimeyer Group. Mr. Lynch stated that the Fire Board recommends that the Council approve and authorize the LJVFD to move ahead with Phase I and Phase II with the Brimeyer Group, at a cost not to exceed $4,000 plus expenses for Phase I, which is the data gathering phase; and not to exceed $2,000 plus expenses for Phase II, which is development and assessment of options for organizational structure. Mayor Probst stated he would be interested to hear Councilmember Larson's comments on the subject. He expressed concern that an endorsement of this plan must not be construed as an endorsement from the City to move ahead witIl hiring a full-time chief. Mr. Lynch agreed. Mayor Probst asked what action is being taken by the other citics. Mr. Lynch stated he is unsure. Councilmember Grant asked why this issue was being raised at this time. Mr. Lynch stated the Fire Board met recently, and these recommendations were made at their meeting. He added that the currcnt chief is not interested in a full-time chief position, and current staff may not meet thc necessary requirements. Mayor Probst reiterated his concern that if the Council takes an action, it should be made clear that it is not an endorsement for a full-time chief position. Councilmember Rem stated the study would give an indication of how to ensure better reporting and more centralized control within the Fire Department. She added it makes sense to explore the options. Councilmember Grant asked whether a feasibility study was done in the past. Mayor Probst stated the cities have been unwilling to providing budgetary funding in the past, and an overt analysis was never completed. Councilmember Aplikowski stated that a task force met approximately 3 years ago and reviewed other options. She added ilie minutes would be available for review. She added, in her opinion, the Fire Board's requests are reasonable. MOTION: Councihnember Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Rem seconded a motion to approve authorization for Lakc Johanna Volunteer Fire Department (LJVFD) to move ahead with Phase I and Phase II with the Brimeyer Group, at a cost not to exceed $4,000 plus expenses for Phase I, and not to exceed $2,000 plus expenses for Phase II. The motion carried unanimously (4-0). ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - July 10, 2000 8 . ADMINISTRATOR COMMENTS . . A. Ramsey County Sheriff's Department, National Night Out Mr. Lynch reviewed a memo from the Ramsey County Sheriffs Department's Crime Prevention Unit which outlines preparations for the National Night Out to be held Tuesday August 1,2000. He added lliat the County wants cities to publish the information and promote the event, supporting neighborhood block parties. Councilmember Aplikowski asked whether llie council members would participate by visiting block parties. She added she would have to make arrangements ifnecessary. Mayor Probst stated he would encourage tile Council to participate in the event by stopping in at block parties. Councilmember Aplikowski requested that the Council be provided with a list of block parties. B. Pavement Management Program (PMP), 2000, 2002, 2004 Mr. Lynch presented a revised Pavement Management Program (PMP) schedule, amendments to which were based on a previous Council Worksession discussion. He added the schedule included recommendations on the next areas to be considered if the Ingerson Road project is not undertaken this year. Mayor Probst asked whether the Ingerson Task Force received this information. Mr. Lynch stated the information was not ready before their last meeting. Councilmember Aplikowski suggested that a map of streets be reviewed to determine in which areas work has been completed, and a review of pavement plans and standards be undertaken. She requested that Mr. Stafford put such a map together for review at the Council's next worksession. Councilmember Grant agreed that would be helpful. Mayor Probst stated that the City must proceed with an appropriate project in the Ingerson neighborhood, or credibility will be lost willi other neighborhoods awaiting potential projects. He added the Council must identify what the appropriate project is in the Ingerson neighborhood, and proceed with the program. Hc added the Council should make plans for the next neighborhood to be reviewed next fall. Councilmember Aplikowski asked whether the Council would be presented with more information ifthe Ingerson Task Force makes a recommendation. Mayor Probst stated that he believes that the Ingerson group and City staff will make their own recommendations that mayor may not be the same. The Council will then determine its final position. Councilmember Grant reviewed the Ingerson Task Force's reccnt meeting. He added that the Chair quoted Councilmember Larson as saying that the review group should not provide a specific recommendation. Councilmember Grant stressed that he never heard Councilmember Larson make that comment. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - July 10,2000 9 Councilmember Grant stated the Task Force appears to be headed toward recommending raingardens, but without the involvement of othcr neighbors. He added the Task Force was encouraged to solicit the opinion of tile neighbors, and publish information regarding raingardens for the neighbors to review. He noted the reaction at the meeting was that would entail a lot of work. Councilmember Grant stated, in his opinion, that the Task Force is headed down a path that is less than optimal. He added the Council's vision for the group was to work with neighbors to come up with the best possible recommendation for the Council. He noted he is concerned with regard to the outcome of the group. Mayor Probst stated he received one phone call from a neighbor who was adamantly opposed to anything happening there. He added there is general concern with regard to the closing of the road. He added ilie resident did not even know the task force was established. Councilmember Grant stated thc Task Force's recent meeting ended with a confrontation between the Chair and a neighbor claiming to be left out of the process. I'Ie added the Chair felt there had been adequate neighborhood involvement. He noted this led to a difference of opllllOns. Mayor Probst stated he would ask City staff to put together a schedule for review at an upcoming Worksession to move tile process along. He added he understands that some residents are looking at the possibility of obtaining an injunction to stop the project. Mayor Probst stated the project must resume a schcduled coursc of action. He added, from Councilmember Grant's comments, it does not appear that the Task Force will be bringing forward a recommendation in the near term. Councilmember Aplikowski statcd the Task Force was given a project deadline of July 17. She added the City would be unable to move forward with another neighborhood in August if the Ingerson project stalls. Councilmember Grant stated the Task Force intends to draft a recommendation. Mr. Stafford stated thc Chair indicated she would be e-mailing the draft recommendation to the Task Force members for their review. He added that a final date was unclear. Mayor Probst stated the Ingerson Task Force should be made aware that the Council wishes to receive their recommendations at which time the Council will establish a timeline for proceeding with the project. Mayor Probst stated he is unable to attend thc August 14 regular Council meeting, but he will be in attendance at the August 21 worksession. Councilmember Grant stated he would be unable to attcnd the August 21 worksession. Mayor Probst stated another option would be to hold a special meeting to address this issue. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - July 10,2000 10 Mr. Lynch stated he understood that a recommendation should be received by the task force by the July 31 regular meeting for review and decision at the August 14 regular meeting or further discussion at the August 21 worksession. He added the project plans should not be finalized in one night and time to review should be scheduled. Councilmember Aplikowski stated the Council should be firm, and invite the Task Force to present their recommendations for the Council's acceptance. Mayor Probst stated a large number of residents would probably be in attendance at meetings where the issue is discussed. Councilmember Aplikowski stated the Task Force should be notified that their report would be expected at the July 31 regular meeting. Counci]member Grant stated that is the Task Force's understanding. Councilmember Rem stated that some Ingerson neighborhood residents believe the primary issue is curbs and gutters, which is what people do not want. Shc added that high assessments amount to insult to injury with curbs and gutters being the primary objection. Councilmember Aplikowski stated, in her opinion, the whole neighborhood is not opposed to curbs and gutters. She added that the Council is not receiving such information from the review group. Mayor Probst stated many residents want the improvements but do not want their neighbors to know they are in favor. He stated that deadlines need to be established and the decision-making process completed. COUNCIL COMMENTS AND COMMITTEE LIAISON ACTIVITY REPORTS Councilmember Grant asked whether the City is a member of the National Flood Program. Mr. Lynch stated the City is not a member. Councilmember Grant stated the City of Eagan is a member of the National Flood Program, and received 12 inches of rain this week. Councilmember Grant stated he attended a recent Parks & Recreation Committee meeting, adding they are pleased with the Council's approval ofa Parks & Recreation Comprehensive Plan. Councilmember Aplikowski stated she attended a legislative policy meeting, adding she brought copies oflaw summaries and final actions for the Council's review. She added Mr. Lynch could provide copies. She noted the group is soliciting new topics for discussion. Councilmember Rem reviewed the Planning Commission's July 5 meeting. She stated a planning case involving an antenna on the County Road F tower was denied; a site plan review for the MNDOT facility on County Road I was approved; a lengthy discussion with regard to proposed ordinance amendments was held; and Ms. Chaput learned earlier that day that Welsh Companies no longer lease and manage the Gateway Boulevard properties, and their amendment requests were tabled. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - July 10,2000 II Councilmember Rem noted the last item discussed at the meeting was a master plan proposal for the City's water tower sites. She added it was mentioned that logos would be nice on the water towers. Councilmember Rem stated the Web Site Task Force is ready to present its report. She noted a newspaper article on web sites in small cities. Councilmember Rem requested that tile Emergency Operations Plan's list of phone numbers be verified. Mr. Lynch stated a revised list is due out by the end of the month. Mayor Probst stated he is interested to see what MNDOT plans for the driver testing facility. He added there seems to be a lot of activity in that area. Mayor Probst stated discussions have continued with the Army regarding access to the City Hall facility property. He added he had a positive conversation last week but no feedback since that time. Mayor Probst stated an action was proposed recently by thc County Administrator with regard to a resolution for the Northwcst Youth and Family Services budget. Mayor Probst stated he was contacted by Mr. Rekuski with regard to the status of the Lake Josephine East development. He added he agreed to meet with Mr. Rekuski to carry the Council's message to him. He added the original deadline established by the Council is approaching. Mayor Probst thanked Councilmembers Aplikowski and Rem for their recent attendance at an 1- 35W Corridor Coalition Worksession, which is the second in a series of three workshops. He added all the participants remain engaged in thc process. Mayor Probst stated that MNDOT has engaged a firm to do an analysis on four or five intersections at Highway 10, 1-35W and 1-694. He added that he received an indication from Joseph Strauss, Executive Director of the 1-35W Corridor Coalition, that they are looking for a cost sharing in the study. He noted he would present further details as he receives them. ADJOURN MOTION: Councilmember Grant moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to adjourn the meeting at 9:30 p.m. The motion carried unanimously (4-0). /' " . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - July 10,2000 NOTICE OF MEETINGS The next regular City Council meeting will be held Monday, July 31, 2000 at 7 :30 p.m. at the Arden Hills Council chambers. 12