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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC 05-24-1999 e . . CITY OF ARDEN HILLS, MINNESOTA CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 24,1999 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 ApJikowski, Gregg Larson, Paul Malone and Lois Rem. Absent: None. Also present were City Administrator, Brian Fritsinger; Assistant to the City Administrator, Kevin Ringwald; Public Works Director, Dwayne Stafford; City Engineer, City Attorney, John Miller; Greg Brown, BRW; Associate Planner, Nancy Randall; and Recording Secretary, Mary Mullen. ADOPT AGENDA MOTION: Councilmember Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Rem seconded a motion to adopt the agenda for the May 24,1999, regular City Council meeting, as submitted. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. May 10, 1999 Regular Council Meeting B. May 17, 1999 Council Worksession Mr. Fritsinger requested the following changes: On page 2 of the May 10, 1999 Regular Council Meeting minutes, middle paragraph, 6th line down, insert "courts" after "tennis". On page 10, 4th paragraph down, replace "service" with "surface". On the next line, delete "not". On page 19, last paragraph, 2nd line, replace "Ms. Carol" with "Mr. Caroll". On page 2 of the May 17, 1999 Council W orksession minutes, last paragraph, insert "pull-down" before "screen." Councilmember Malone requested the following changes: On page 13 of the May 10, 1999 Regular Council Meeting minutes, in the motion, 3rd line from the bottom, replace "excluding" with "plus." Mayor Probst requested the following changes: On page 10 of the May 10, 1999 Regular Council Meeting minutes, 5th paragraph, replace "the cost estimates are gross" with "while the cost estimate are general in nature". On the same page, last line should read "Mayor Probst asked for confirmation that there would be no private..." On page 17, 3rd paragraph, 3rd line, replace "would not trust" with "would not rely upon". In the same paragraph, last line, replace "would not trust" with "would not rely upon". . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MAY 24, 1999 2 MOTION: Councilmember Malone moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to approvc the meeting minutes of the May la, 1999, Regular Council Meeting, and the May 17, 1999 Council worksession, as amended. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). CONSENT CALENDAR A. Claims and Payroll B. Probationary Appointment, Michelle Olson, Recreation Program Supervisor MOTION: Councilmember Larson moved and Councilmember Malone 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. Receive 1998 Audit Report, Abdo, Abdo, Eick & Meyers Mr. Fritsinger stated the 1998 Audit Report had been prepared by the firm of Abdo, Abdo, Eick & Meyers. He invited Steve MacDonald, a representative of that firm, to address the Council and answer questions. Mr. MacDonald reviewed the 1998 Audit Report, noting the City's finances are in excellent shape, adding the General Fund has finished ahead of budget on the revenue side, special revenue funds are doing well, bonds were issued for the first time in 10 years, and the capital project funds have a large reserve for funding of internal projects. He noted the City is well-funded, has good operating margins, and the Audit went well as usual. Mayor Probst asked whether the paragraph relating to Y2K issues was standard for this year. Mr. MacDonald stated some disclosure requirements had changed in light of Y2K issues, and his firm included a page of required supplementary information which gives a broad overview of what the City is doing to accomplish compliance with those requirements. Mayor Probst commended the firm for the addition of color graphics to the report which was a nice touch. Councilmember Malone asked whether State-wide unfunded liability is included in the PERA section. Mr. MacDonald stated that section has been omitted from this year's report. ~ . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MAY 24, 1999 3 Councilmember Malone commended the efforts and hard work of City Accountant Terrance Post on this audit. Councilmember Aplikowski stated she appreciated the layout ofthe report, which was easy to follow for someone who knows basic business. MOTION: Councilmember Malone moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to approve to accept and receive the 1998 Audit Report prepared by Abdo, Abdo, Eick & Mcyers. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). B. Metro East Development Partnership Presentation, David Piggott Mayor Probst welcomed David Piggott from the Metro East Development Partnership and invited him to address the Council. Mr. Piggott reviewed the Partnership's recent activities, including its strategic plan that was mailed to the Councilmembers. He noted the Partnership no longer uses job count as its top priority when dealing with businesses due to the lack of adequate workers in the current job market He added they now concentrate on companies making significant capital investment or using the latest technologies to allow workers at the lower end of the skill level to upgrade and obtain better jobs. Mr. Piggott stated the Partnership is in the planning stage of recruiting business outside the State of Miunesota, which has not had a historically competitive business climate. He added that recent changes have made Minnesota more competitive and promotable. Mr. Piggott stated the Partnership is funded 70% by the private sector and is conducting cross marketing, making a concerted cffort to give private sector members a sound investment He added a new directory has been completed for this purpose. Mr. Piggott stated the Partnership has commenced prioritization of prospects to those companies that pay at least $12.41 per hour, which is 50% above the State-designated livable wage. He added they hope to answer some traditional criticisms of economic development this way and accommodate their own activities within the market He noted the Partnership is targeting the information technology industry that is in its infancy and they are working with such businesses and the infrastructure providers to create critical mass. Councilmember Malone asked [or clarification with regard to MediaOne and its new owners within the communications infrastructure. Mr. Piggott stated the Partnership has some concerns about their service provision, as the community must be up to speed to attract information technology companies to the area. Councilmember Larson asked how the Partnership, which represents many communities in the metropolitan area, prioritizes those communities when referring an inquiry. Mr. Piggott stated the Partnership handles a very large geographic area, which works to its advantage. He added a project outline is submitted to all communities without disclosing the name of the company, after which communities express interest and are narrowed down by the Partnership for introductions ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MAY 24, 1999 4 to the client. He added they do not prescreen and it makes no difference to them which . community the client prefers. Mayor Probst asked what impact the 1-35W corridor will have on prospective development in the City. Mr. Piggott stated the Partnership is able to obtain real estate information from a database of commercial sites, and the best response material is corning from that coalition. Mayor Probst asked for clarification of the term "investor" which is used in the Partnership's strategic plan. Mr. Piggott stated the Partnership's members are considered investors as it attempts to provide a return on investment for all members. Councilmember Larson asked what the City's contribution was to the organization. Mr. Piggott stated thc City's fee of $500 is not pro-rated and there is no minimum level for communities. He added that the fee is based upon available development opportunities. C. Planninl!: Cases 1. Case #99-07, Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc. (Guidant), 4100 Hamline Avenue N, PUD (Master Plan) . Ms. Randall explained that the applicant is proposing to update their master plan to include a recent addition between building A and B, a future proposed addition to building B, an addition to building E, and future parking lots to the north and east. She added the applicant proposes to reduce their current available parking to allow for the building of the addition to Building E, and provide 221 additional parking spaces on the east side of Femwood Avenue. Ms. Randall noted that staffis concerned that parking across Fernwood Avenue, which is not connected to the site, will create pedestrian crossing problems and issues, and the property could be sold in the future thus reducing the amount of employee parking. She added that staff recommends that an easement be placed to this site or that the area to the north of Building E be added as proof of parking if the site across F ernwood A venue were lost or sold. Ms. Randall stated staff also recommends a sidewalk to the entrance ofthe building be constructed for pedestrians crossing Fernwood A venue, and that the City install a stop sign so that traffic will stop in all directions. She noted that all buildings meet the required setbacks, except for building H which would no longer be an issue if the property to the north of Building E is combined with the main campus. Ms. Randall stated the City Engineer had noted a possible trail easement along County Road F, adding the timing of this trail is still uncertain and staff does not recommend moving forward with that issue. . Ms. Randall stated the Planning Commission has recommended approval of this case, with the following conditions: ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MAY 24, 1999 5 I. Applicant provide documentation for permanent easement for the parking lot for review by the City Attorney, or provide proof of parking by joining this property with the property to the north. Provide erosion control in the area that will be disturbed. Lighting meet the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance Section V,E,3,a,b,c, and d. Rice Creek Watershed approval. . 2. 3. 4. Mayor Probst asked for clarification that none of the parking issues would alleviate the need for the structure parking proposed for buildings G and F. Ms. Randall confirmed this, stating the ramps will become needed with further expansions. Mayor Probst asked whether the issue of an additional stop sign on Fernwood Avenue should be attached as a condition. Ms. Randall stated that this issue could be referred to the Finance and Operations Committee. Mayor Probst stated, with regard to the trail easement, it would appear this is the appropriate time to bring the issue to a conclusion if the City believes this is the right location. Mr. Fritsinger stated the road as constructed is not in the center of the right of way, and there is a larger right of way on its south side. He added the question of getting the easement for the trail is not relevant, as staff is unsurc whether it will be needed for road in the future. He added there would be future opportunities to review this issue. . Mr. Ringwald stated that speculation with regard to future planning efforts on 1-694/Hamline Avenue/County Road F is risky ffild many of the anticipated changes to these roadways have yet to be designed. He added that staff concludes that this is not the appropriate time to pursue the easements. Councilmember Aplikowski asked how many people the applicant employs. Mr. Ringwald stated there are approximately 2,000 employees on-site as well as 200-250 salespeople who are not permanently affixed at that location. He added shifts run around the clock on the manufacturing side of the business. Councilmember Larson asked for clarification with regard to the size of the proposed parking lot across F ernwood A venue that appears to be smaller on the drawings than on the master plan. Ms. Randall confirmed the parking is smaller on the site plan than that which is shown on the Master Plan, the intent is that this parking lot could be expanded in the future to accommodate some of the growth on the site. MOTION: Councilmember Malone moved and Councilmember Larson seconded a motion to approve Planning Case #99-07, Master Plan/Planned Unit Development amendment, subject to the following conditions: I. Applicant provide documentation for permanent easement for the parking lot for review by the City Attorney, or provide proof of parking by joining this property with the property to the north. Provide erosion control in the area that will be disturbed. . 2. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MAY 24, 1999 6 3. Lighting meet the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance Section V,E,3,a,b,c, and d. Rice Creek Watershed approval. 4. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). 2. Planning Case #99-03, Josephine East L.L.C., 3183 Lexington Avenue, Preliminary and Final Plat and Variance Ms. Randall explained the applicant is requesting approval of a preliminary and final plat consisting of four (4) lots on a 2.47 acre parcel zoned R-2 Single Family Residential District. She noted the request includes a lot width variance of 80 feet for all four proposed lots instead of the required 85 feet. Ms. Randall stated the applicant is proposing to dedicate Shoreline Lane on the plat for future development of that road. She noted a private driveway runs through this property which will hopefully be re-routed to the proposed cul-de-sac by the applicant working with Mr. Bachman. Ms. Randall noted a letter from Mr. Bachman's attorney was received requesting a condition that some details be settled before the plat is approved. She expressed staff s concern that Mr. Bachman would then have an unfair negotiating position relative to the driveway. Ms. Randall reviewed the 12 conditions attached to this case, adding the Planning Commission recommends approval of the Planning Case including variances with the conditions. Councilmember Larson asked whether Mr. Bachman currently has northerly access from his property to Edgewater Lane. Ms. Randall stated that the Bachmann property currently has access available to Lexington Avenue and Edgewater Lane, via Shoreline Lane. Councilmember Larson expressed concern that the park dedication fee does not accurately represent difference between the property's assessed value and its sale price. He stated precedents set by the City indicate an appraisor should analyze the property to determine its fair market value. Mr. Fritsinger stated the City has reviewed county values in recent years and found them to be reasonable and consistent with the Ordinance process. Councilmember Larson questioned whether in other cases the numbers have been this significant. Mr. Ringwald stated in other planning cases the difference between the value for tax purposes and the sale price have not been as significantly different, but the Staff utilized a method that creates some amount of equity in the calculation with respect to previous planning cases. Councilmember Larson stated he is convinced that something more should be done than using the assessed valuation. He added there seems to be a significant difference, which argues for another solution such as splitting the difference. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MAY 24, 1999 7 Councilmember Rem asked whether grading issues had been reviewed. Ms. Randall stated the City Engineer has reviewed grading issues and is satisfied, adding the proposed plans will actually improve this site for neighboring properties. Councilmemher Aplikowski asked for clarification with regard to Mr. Bachman's proposed driveway. Ms. Randall stated there are lots of trees on his lot which would have to be removed if Lexington Avenue was accessed from his property, and he would prefer not make a 90 degree turn into the proposed cul-de-sac on Shoreline Lane. Mr. Frank Rekuski stated Mr. Bachman does not want to lose trees, and although they have indicated they would allow him access to the cul-de-sac, they have not received any further information from him. The applicant stated the 2nd condition is worded incorrectly, and he has a problem with the 5th condition with regard to payment of escrow for future extension of Shoreline Lane. Mr. Ringwald stated, with regard to the 2nd condition, the plat shows that the property is being dedicated for public purpose to the City, the condition refers to deeding. The Staff believes that the issue is a wording technicality and that the applicant's plat is satisfying the intent of the condition. The applicant stated the park dedication fee is fair, and his company has already absorbed the cost of demolition of 2 homes on the property. Councilmember Larson stated the standard valuation seems way below the value of the property, which has 160 feet oflakeshore. Dee Rushenberg, 3168 Shoreline Lane, stated her property is located to the south of the proposed development, and expressed concerns with regard to drainage and tbe costs of curb and gutter as well as assessments against her property. She added the development will be a nice addition to the area, but requested communication from the developers who have not been cooperative. Bob Wessland, 3167 Shoreline Lane, stated he believes the proposed changes will resolve drainage issues on the land, noting a pipe that runs through 3 properties from one of the new lots. He added he thinks the cul-de-sac is the best solution, adding he has not received any information from the developer and would like to be kept informed. He asked whether someone would keep him informed or if that was his responsibility. Mayor Probst noted there is interest in getting the easement issue resolved, adding he is confused at the lack of easement since there are utilities located there. He assured Mr. Wessland he would be kept informed. Councilmember Malone asked how the pipe got on the property. Mr. Wessland stated the pipe was already there when he moved in, and that the pipe is not a City pipe. Don Everts, a co-applicant, stated the park dedication fee is accurate as there are 4 lots being developed and his company has already absorbed many costs related to this project, such as demolition, the sealing of wells, and loss of lot value, all of which have been dictated by the . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MAY 24, 1999 8 City. He stated he has attempted to abide by the City Council's 1993 rulings in this case, and has worked with the City and neighborhood to create a positive land development for all concerned. The stop light at County Road D creates a safer intersection than a cul-de-sac directly entering onto Lexington Avenue. Mr. Everts reiterated that his company has attempted to contact the southerly neighbors numerous times and has not received any response from them, but added he is encouraged by what he has heard from them at this meeting. Mr. Everts stated the 5th condition relating to payment of escrow for future extension of Shoreline Lane is unfair as it is unclear whether the road will ever go through, and if it does, there will be properties from which to request payment. Mayor Probst stated he sat on the Planning Commission in 1993 when the street was discussed, and at that time it was not anticipated that any development would take place on the property in question. He added that it would be unfair to assess new homeowners, and he is not prepared for the City to take on that responsibility. Mayor Probst stated that whether or not the developer believes the escrow to be reasonable, the City has an obligation to ensure that the community and subsequent Councils are not subject to these kinds of unfinished business. Jeff Miller, an attorney representing the applicant, stated that negotiations for access are currently taking place with Mr. Bachman, and he hopes an agreement will be reached soon. He added that the condition for approval referenced in the letter from Mr. Bachman's attorney with regard to approval of the plat is unreasonable. With regard to the 5th condition, Mr. Miller requested the Council consider a provision for how long the payment would be held in escrow for the road extension, so the owners will get their money back if no action is taken within a certain length of time. He added it would be unfair to his client if the City held the payment in perpetuity. Mr. Miller stated he is encouraged by the neighbor's comments and added he will attempt to meet with them and resolve the issues. Council member Malone stated the issue is a difficult one because of multiple lot owners involved, and it is the intent of the City to preserve the right of way through Shoreline Lane as lots develop. He added that properties in subdivision pay for installation of utilities throughout the entire plat and expressed his support of the fee being assessed and the conditions in general, which are appropriate. Councilmember Malone stated, with regard to the park dedication fee, he was unsure whether the higher amount is justified according to what is specified in the Ordinance. City Attorney John Miller stated a blanket easement is possible, and the Council might consider a sunset provision on the easement across the parcels with the idea that there would be a ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MAY 24, 1999 9 driveway constructed over those parcels. He added the bottom line is that all parties are in . agreement. Councilmember Larson asked why the proposed temporary cul-de-sac does not extend north to the property line. Ms. Randall stated the applicant's site plan indicated the location of the cul-de- sac, but the City is comfortable with design as long as there is an escrow to cover its future extension to the north property line of the plat. Councilmember Larson asked why a cul-de-sac was requested. Ms. Randall stated public safety concerns were the main reason. Mayor Probst stated that Shoreline Lane to the north serves substantially fewer properties and the potential for emergency vehicles requiring turn-around space is not as high as to the south. Ms. Randall reiterated that preserving trees and minimizing grading were also an issue. Councilmember Rem asked whether the street length going into the cul-de-sac was an issue. Ms. Randall confirmed the temporary cul-de-sac is longer than the code allows in a permanent situation. MOTION: Councilmember Malone moved and Councilmember Larson seconded a motion to approve Planning Case #99-03, Preliminary and Final Plat with Variances, Josephine East LLC, 3 171 Lexington A venue, with the following conditions: . 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. . 9. Title information be submitted to the City for review by the City Attorney. Extension of Shoreline Lane through the subject property be dedicated to the City. Provide staff with proposed grading and sediment and erosion control measures that are proposed to be used on this project for staff approval. Payment of appropriate Park Dedication as determined by City Council as provided for by the Subdivision Ordinance in Section 22-9 of the City Code. Payment of Escrow for future extension of Shoreline Lane to the north property line. Approval by Rice Creek Watershed District. Basement elevations not be below 887.8 feet. Utility and drainage easements be provided per Subdivision Ordinance Section 22-8 (l7)(e). Construction specifications for street and utilities be submitted with the final plat submittal. Easements in a form acceptable to the City Engineer and City Attorney be granted to the City for the temporary cul-de-sac, and the documents be submitted with the final plat application. Right-of-way from the south (Rushenberg and Wessland Property) be acquired prior to final plat for access to the property or a blanket travel easement be reviewed by City Attorney and recorded with the plat for access to Lots 1 and 2, Block 2 over Lots 1 and 2, Block 1 which, must be rectified within 24 months. 10. 11. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MAY 24, 1999 10 12. Outstanding fee for attorney fees in the amount of$I,118.80 be paid in full prior to final plat approval. No construction will be permitted on easterly lots until an alternate access is provided to westerly lots, and temporary easements will be provided across the easterly lots, which must be rectified within 24 months or the easements will become permanent. 13. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). Councilmember Larson stated he would wish to amend the motion to increase the park dedication fee and thereby recognize the higher value of the property. He added the standard valuation is $2,000 per lakeshore foot in the metropolitan area. Councilmember Aplikowski stated she is unsure whether she can support that amendment. Councilmember Larson stated there is a substantial difference between the assessed value of the property and the value of the property when it was sold. He added the lower value is not reflective of the property's worth, and the difference of $6,000 would go into the Parks system. MOTION: Councilmember Larson moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to amend Condition #4 of Planning Case #99-03, to increase the park dedication to $19,999 to reflect the true value of the property. Voting on the motion: Councilmember Larson voted aye. Mayor Probst, Councilmembers Malone, Aplikowski and Rem voted nay. The motion was denied (1-4). D. Purchase Authorization, Sewer Easement Machine in Conjunction with White Bear Lake Mr. Stafford explained that due to the unique characteristics ofland within the City, a large percentage of the sewer system lies within easements rather than in the street. He added this arrangement requires special equipment to reach areas that are otherwise unreachable. He noted the special equipment is only reqnired 6-8 weeks per year. Mr. Stafford proposed the City purchase the equipment in conjunction with White Bear Lake, adding ajoint purchase agreement had been drawn up for the Council's approval. He requested the Council's permission to purchase the machine with White Bear Lake at a cost to the City of $9,247.66. Mr. Stafford stated insurance might be an issue that he hopes to have resolved before the purchase is finalized. Mr. Fritsinger stated both Cities must be fully insured for the full cost of the equipment. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MAY 24, 1999 11 MOTION: Councilmember Malone moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to authorize the execution of documents pertaining to the City's joint purchase of an Easement Machine with White Bear Lake. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). E. Resolution #99-16, Resolution calling for a Public Hearing on the Issuance of Revenue Bonds to Finance Housing and Health Care Facilities and a Proposed Housing Program, and Authorizing the Puhlication of a Notice of the Hearing (Presbyterian Homes Housing and Assisted Living, Inc. Project) Mr. Fritsinger explained Presbyterian Homes had contacted the City with regard to an action involving bonding of approximately $30 million for a variety of facilities operated by that organization. He noted the City has been involved in a number of projects like this in the past, including the refinancing of some outstanding bonds in 1995. Mr. Fritsinger stated this case involves a revenue bond, and the City lends its name to the issue without any obligation or responsibility. Councilmember Malone stated he is familiar with this process, adding it will not affect taxpayers or the City's borrowing capacity in any way. MOTION: Councilmember Malone moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to approve Resolution 99-16, calling for a Public Hearing on the issuance of revenue bonds to finance housing and health care facilities, and a proposed housing program, and authorizing the publication of a notice of the hearing (Presbyterian Homes Housing and Assisted Living, Inc. Project). The motion carried unanimously (5-0). F. 1999 Committee Appointments Mr. Fritsinger explained the Council had agreed at a recent worksession to make committee appointments at this evening's meeting. He added a number of residents have expressed interest at a recent organizational meeting on May 17, 1999, and some residents had previously expressed interest. I-Ie noted the list given to the Council reflects only those residents who expressed interest on May 17. Mr. Fritsinger requested the Council's direction on these committee appointments. Mayor Probst suggested the Council should determine interest from current committee members at this month's meetings, and perhaps re-appoint current membership through the next cycle appointment. Councilmember Malone expressed agreement, adding the Council might wish to provisionally appoint those residents who have expressed interest. Mayor Probst noted some residents have expressed interest in numerous committees. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MAY 24,1999 12 Councilmember Rem expressed agreement, stating this would encourage residents to attend committee meetings who might not otherwise express interest. Councilmember Larson stated he is uncomfortable with the provisional appointments, as some people will misinterpret it. He added the Council should use a more disciplined process to choose those residents who will serve. He asked whether it has been the City's policy that current committee members may continue to serve if they wish. Mayor Probst stated he has never known of a resident who was not re-appointed. Council member Malone stated in his opinion the Council has spent too much time on this issue, and suggested the Council liaison make arrangements and phone calls. Mayor Probst stated he would work with staff to identify task force heads and bring recommendations to the Council. He agreed that Council liaisons could contact respective task force members and make recommendations on how to proceed, as well as determine level of interest from respective committees for the next round of meetings. G. Scwer Infiltration Inspection Alternate, Residential Water Meter Replacement Project Discussion Mr. Stafford explained that staff is aware of illegal sewer system hook-ups within the City which account for 50% of clear water through the system. He noted staff intends to make meter replacement visits to homes and this might be an appropriate time to make inspections. He added the issue could become controversial, as correcting illegal hook-ups can be costly. Mr. Stafford stated that staff recommends approaching this as an identification process through which the City will work with residents to identify problems, make them aware of consequences to the City, and enforce compliance. Mr. Stafford stated that many metropolitan area communities are faced with this problem which has become increasingly serious due to the high cost of sewage treatment and the increased need for sewage infrastructure and facilities resulting from these connections. Mr. Stafford requested the Council's consideration of the addition of this inspection to the water meter installation process that would save money in the long run, but could impact the installation of meters and cause residents to perceive property encroachment. Mayor Probst asked if staff had determined whether this kind of inspection might be illegal. Mr. Fritsinger stated it is legal, and there are standard penalties for Ordinance violations. Mayor Probst expressed his approval of proceeding with the inspections since illegal hook-ups are costly to the City, adding the inspections can be done so residents do not feel intruded upon. Mayor Probst stated the two issues could be separated if there are concerns with regard to hindering the installation of meters. He noted water meter installers could assess the hook-ups and determine where the problem is focused. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MAY 24, 1999 13 Councilmember Aplikowski pointed out that many residents are not aware their hook-up is illegal, and although she agrees the problem must be identified, she would support a long-term solution. She asked what must be done to identifY the problem. Mayor Probst stated a dye test must be conducted. Mr. Stafford stated the problem could be identified without a dye test if the discbarge pipe can be physically tracked from the sump pump to its connection. Mayor Probst suggested an amnesty program whereby those residents identified as illegally hooked up would have a specific time period in which to rectify the situation with no penalty. He added that beyond that time period a penalty would be imposed. Mr. Stafford stated in his opinion the City should take an educational approach to the problem rather than viewing it as a code violation issue. Councilmember Aplikowski agreed, stating the problem should be identified after which the Council could review the issue. She added it might not be as bad as it seems. Councilmember Malone expressed agreement with imposing an illegal hook-up fee until the problem is rectified, as it will become the homeowner's responsibility. He expressed concern that some residents pay for other resident's illegal hook-ups. Mr. Stafford reiterated that a joint meter replacement/inspection effort will be controversial and may impede the replacement project somewhat. Councilmember Aplikowski asked whether the meter replacement project would be lengthened if inspections were done. Mr. Stafford confirmed this, adding literature will have to be sent to residents informing them of the meter replacement and sump pump inspection program. Councilmember Aplikowski asked whether it would be less costly to do the replacement and inspection together. Mr. Stafford stated that other Cities who have completed similar projects have indicated it was worthwhile. He added the inspection could be bid as an alternate and then reviewed when bids are received. Councilmember Larson stated he believes it is a worthwhile project, but there are inequities within the current system such as sewer rate assessments. He expressed concern that the City must review the practicalities of the project, such as locating hidden pumps and completing dye tests. Mayor Probst stated the homeowner would have responsibility for any corrections. Council member Larson stated he is in favor of determining the depth of the problem and where violations are occurring, as well as how much the project will cost. Mayor Probst expressed concern with regard to slowing down the meter replacement project, and suggested a survey of residents might be effective to determine whether their sump pumps have the proper connections. He added he would favor conducting the inspections as a separate exerClse. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MAY 24, 1999 14 Councilmember Larson stated the City must determine the significance and cost of the inspection project before deciding how to address the problem. Mr. Stafford stated he could find some information for the Council's review. Councilmember Rem stated she would favor bidding the inspections out as an alternative, and focus on using the meter replacements to gather information. Councilmember Aplikowski stated that would take too much time. Councilmember Malone stated that residents with illegal hook-ups are costing the City money, and added he would favor doing the inspections in conjunction with the meter replacements. He stated he would support bidding it as an alternative and getting it resolved. MOTION: Councilmember Malone moved and Councilmember Rem seconded a motion to authorize staff to solicit bids for the replacement of all the Arden Hills residential water meters over the next two (2) years, and add an alternate which would include the inspection of sump pump/drain tile discharge connections. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). ADMINISTRATOR COMMENTS Mr. Fritsinger stated the community was involved in a flower planting this past weekend with 3,500 volunteers helping plant flowers at 15 different sites. He added this was a full day of activity for all participants, adding they deserve the community's appreciation. Mayor Probst stated a thank you note should be sent to the participants. Mr. Fritsinger stated the names could be listed in the newsletter. Councilmember Rem stated she participated in the event, which had great community involvement. Mr. Fritsinger stated the Parks Commission has recommended that the City proceed with the purchase of a play structure for Arden Oaks Park, a proposal for which will be presented to the Council for approval at their June 14, 1999 regular meeting. With regard to the City Hall, Mr. Fritsinger stated the relevant bill was approved on the Senate side conveying ownership of City Hall property to the City and the maintenance facility property to the County. He added he discussed this issue with Senator Gram's office today, and the companion bill on the I-louse side uses the same language which is good news as it will not be necessary for a language debate to go to committee. Mr. Fritsinger stated the final bill might be approved by July 1999 when the legislature recesses, or October 1999 when the fiscal year starts. He added the contractor is willing to extend for 60 days, after which he will charge $6,600 per additional month. Mayor Probst stated the 60 day extension will not be sufficient, and the project seems headed toward rebidding. He added this is an authorization bill rather than an appropriation bill, and in his opinion there seems to be little concern in the legislature with regard to getting it passed. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MAY 24, 1999 15 Mayor Probst stated he would advocate commencing construction as soon as possible and the lease on the current space is up in 2 years. He added he would hope the staff would be in a position to make an orderly transition. COUNCIL COMMENTS Councilmember Larson stated he and Councilmember Rem toured the City's sewage lift station and water towers, learning about the City's public works. He expressed appreciation of Mr. Stafford's willingness to spend the morning with them. Councilmember Malone stated he would not be in attendance at the Council's June 14,1999 regular meeting. Councilmember Malone stated the City was chastised by the Focus for having an incorrect address listed for them in the records. He noted the City's address is misprinted in their paper. Councilmember Rem stated a Neighborhood Night was held recently by the Coalition for Healthy Youth, adding attendance was good at that event. Councilmember Rem stated the community flower planting was a success, and the job was completed with the hard work and efforts of many volunteers. Councilmember Rem stated she had heard comments from some residents that the City offices were difficult to find, and she suggested a map be included on City mailers and notices. Mayor Probst commended the Public Works staff on a recent letter from Sharon Klumpp, adding it would be good to broadcast such positive news publicly. Mayor Probst stated he received an invitation from Minneapolis Mayor Sharon Sayles-Belton to join other mayors in signing a statement on global warming. Mayor Probst asked whether City Hall had received any calls with regard to the County's commitment to maintain access to the boat launch at Lake Johanna, or whether staff had any comments. Mr. Fritsinger stated he was unaware of any calls being received, and he understood the homeowners were being told they could not use the launch. Mayor Probst stated he had understood from the County that the contractor was required to cooperate. For the benefit of Councilmember Malone who stated he would be absent, Mr. Fritsinger reviewed an issue to be discussed at the June 14, 1999 regular meeting involving a public meeting with residents living near the Highway IO/Highway 96 interchange. He stated there would be discussion with regard to an increase in noise level, and the State or County's intentions to address this issue. Mr. Fritsinger suggested the meeting should be held at another location to accommodate the large number of residents who might attend. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MAY 24, 1999 16 ADJOURN MOTION: COlillcilmember Malone moved and Councilmember Larson seconded a motion to adjourn the meeting at 10:41 p.m. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). BL~ City Administrator NOTICE OF MEETINGS The next regular City Council meeting will be held Monday, June 14, 1999 at 7:30 p.m. at the Arden Hills Council chambers.