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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC 09-13-1999 . . . MINUTES CITY OF ARDEN HILLS, MINNESOTA CITY COUNCIL MEETING SEPTEMBER 13, 1999 7:00 P.M. - ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS CALL TO ORDERlROLL CALL Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, Mayor Dennis Probst called to order the regular City Council meeting at 7:04 p.m. Present: Mayor Dennis Probst, Councilmembers Beverly Aplikowski, Gregg Larson, and Lois Rem. Councilmember Malone arrived at 7:21 p.m. Absent: None Also present were Interim City Administrator, Terrance Post; Public Works Director, Dwayne Stafford; Associate Planner, Nancy Randall; and City Engineer, Greg Brown, BRW; and Recording Secretary, Lori Rolfson. ADOPT AGENDA MOTION: Councilmember Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Rem seconded a motion to adopt the agenda for the September 13, 1999, regular City Council meeting. The motion carried unanimously (4-0). 2000 BUDGET AND PRELIMINARY LEVY DISCUSSION Mr. Post stated that the following items were a series of resolution actions that must be taken prior to September 15, 1999 in order for the information to be communicated to the Ramsey County Auditor. A. Resolution #99-28, Authorizing a Tax Rate Increase for the 1999 Tax Levy, Payable in 2000 Mr. Post explained that, in addition to the continuation of levy limitations certified by the Minnesota Department of Revenue, the Minnesota Legislature also enacted during the 1999 legislative session a new public hearing and resolution requirement for cities that will have a tax rate increase. This new statute also requires the County Auditor to certify a tax rate and the components for determining the tax rate to the governing body of the city. If the governing body expects their proposed levy to result in a tax rate greater than the rate certified by the County Auditor, they must hold a public hearing, pass a resolution authorizing a tax rate increase, and file the resolution with the County Auditor no later than October 20, 1999. The resolution does not have to state what the tax rate increase would be, it must only affirm that the rate will increase. The tax rate worksheet attached to the staff memo dated September 10, 1999, provided by Ramsey County and completed by staft~ indicated that the levy required to support proposed ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 13,1999 2 . 2000 General Fund expenditures will require an increase higher than that calculated by the County net levy certification. Schedule three of the worksheet indicated a levy certification tax rate of 18.33%. Upon calculating the proposed budgetary needs from the tax levy, staff had concluded that the City of Arden Hills would require a higher local capacity tax rate of 18.98%. Mr. Post advised that staff recommends the City Council approve Resolution #99-28, Authorizing a tax rate increase for the 1999 Tax Levy, payable in 2000. If the recommended increase was not approved, Ramsey County will hold to the 18.33% rate and not allow the City to use the maximum levy that the State of Minnesota has authorized. Mayor Probst stated that he had struggled to understand the fact that there was no connection between this tax rate increase and the freeze on levies imposed by the State of Minnesota. Additionally, this does not reflect whether or not the residents will experience a raise in taxes. He indicated that he would support the proposed resolution. However, he was frustrated that this sort of issue was continually added to the program and has nothing to do with the Truth in Taxation process and does not convey information to the residents regarding what will be happening with their taxes. Counci1member Larson stated that he found it ironic that the State Legislature seeks to impose limits on the cities and counties to live within certain means while the State does not have the same requirements. He asked staff if the levy rate difference would be transferred to dollars and, if so, how much money the increase resulted in. Mr. Post stated that the ditlerence in the levy . rate would result in an increase of$61,772. Councilmember Aplikowski asked why Ramsey County would not allow the tax levy increase. Mr. Post stated that it was not a question of Ramsey County not allowing the increase. Rather, it was simply a calculation that was mandated to be done by the County Auditor. Mayor Probst noted that the levy would only be increased this year by $51,763, which was less than the amount that the calculations indicated that the levy was over. MOTION: Councilmember Larson moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to approve Resolution #99-28, Authorizing a tax rate increase for the 1999 Tax Levy, payable in 2000. The motion carried unanimously (4-0). B. Resolution #99-29, Clarifying Proposed Sums of Money to be Levied for Levy Year 1999, Payable in 2000 . Mr. Post explained that this item involved certifying a preliminary levy to Ramsey County. As discussed with the City Council at the August 9,1999 Budget Review Session, the preliminary 2000 General Fund budget needs to utilize 100 percent of its available tax levy certification amount from the Minnesota Department of Revenue to achieve a balanced budget condition. Resolution #99-29 certifies on a proposed basis that the certified levy amount would be $1,976,377. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 13,1999 3 . Mr. Post stated that this resolution was similar to the process conducted by the City over the last several years. Levy limitations began for payable 1998 and have continued to the year payable 2000. Mr. Post advised that staff recommends the City Council adopt Resolution #99-29, Clarifying proposed sums of money to be levied for Levy Year 1999, Payable in 2000. MOTION: Councilmember Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Larson seconded a motion to adopt Resolution #99-29, Clarifying proposed sums of money to be levied for Levy Year 1999, Payable in 2000. The motion carried unanimously (4- 0). c. Resolution #99-30, Adopting the Preliminary 2000 Budget Mr. Post stated that he had not included the same level of detail for Special Revenue, Debt Service, Capital, or Enterprise Funds as for the General Fund for review this evening. He noted that the amount of the levy was entirely supported within the General Fund and was not utilized in any other funds. The preliminary 2000 budget contained four significant items. They included: . · Utilizing the maximum allowable levy ($1,976,377) to achieve a balanced General Fund budget. . Assuming that the new City Hall construction will begin in 2000 with initial funding coming from Advance Refunding Bonds Fund Number 315 ($1,000,000) and Municipal Land and Building Fund Number 408 ($1,050,000). . Implementation of Phase II of TCAAP planning originally planned to be completed in 1999 but not yet begun, currently has no planned 2000 expenditures to begin the project. Mayor Probst requested confirmation that the funds for Phase II of TCAAP planning were still available. Mr. Post stated that funds were available to fund a portion of the project. However, in terms of the initial scope of the year 2000 budget, the City does not have the full amount of money needed to fund the entire project. Mr. Post stated that major capital budget items in the Enterprise Funds included: . The completion of a residential water meter replacement program in the water utility at a cost of $225,000 . The continuation of the multi-year sewer line rehabilitation project at a cost of$125,000. . Purchase of a replacement backhoe at a cost of $90,000, with costs shared between the Street Maintenance Department, water and sanitary sewer utilities. Mr. Post stated that unresolved 2000 budgetary issues included: . . Determining a definite scope for the 2000 Pavement Management Plan, including the incorporation of various recommendations by the City Engineer including street re-rating ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 13,1999 4 . methodology, neighborhood approach, and reconstruction/overlay undertaken in two-year cycles. . Given recent staIT turnover, a revisiting of salary allocation assumptions. . The conclusion and discussion of a Finance Operations Committee utility rate study upon water, sanitary sewer, and storm water utility rates. The preliminary budget has assumed a two percent increase in utility rates. . The timing upon which the City obtains fee title to the TCAAP land conveyance property such that City Hall construction can proceed. . The outcome and timing of Maintenance Facility issues and options. Mr. Post advised that staffrecommends the City Council adopt Resolution #99-30, Adopting the Preliminary 2000 Budget. Councilmember Larson noted that $2,050,000 was allocated to the City Hall construction and was included in the $3,500,000 Capital Project Fund. He asked what the remaining $1,450,000 was for. Mr. Post stated that this was primarily the Capital Project expenditures for the street construction projects. He noted that one million of the $1,136,998 in the Debt Service Fund and one million of the $1,715,000 in the Capital Project Fund reflected a transfer between those two fund categories to finance the City Hall construction project. MOTION: Councilmember Larson moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to adopt Resolution #99-30, Adopting the Preliminary 2000 Budget. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). . D. Resolution #99-31, Adopting the Truth in Taxation Public Hearing Dates for thc Proposed 2000 Taxes Payable Mr. Post explained that, in addition to certifYing the Preliminary Levy to Ramsey County for proposed taxes payable in 1999, the City was also required to select Truth in Taxation public hearing dates. The public hearing date selection process had been simplified by action taken by the Legislature which reserves two dates for cities to schedule hearings. In the past, the City had been limited to choosing dates that were not in conflict with other jurisdictions. The dates reserved by the Legislature were Monday, December 6, 1999 and Monday December 13, 1999. Considering the fact that the regular meeting of the City Council was scheduled for December 13, 1999, and the City cannot adopt a budget the same evening, Mr. Post recommended that the City Council select Monday, December 6, 1999 as the Truth in Taxation public hearing date. Monday, December 13, 1999 could be utilized as a continuation hearing date if necessary. This would require a later adoption hearing date. In the past, the City has not needed the continuation hearing. Therefore, the adoption hearing would be scheduled for Monday, December 13, ] 999. Mr. Post advised that staff recommends the City Council adopt Resolution #99-31, Adopting the Truth in Taxation Public Hearing Dates for the Proposed 2000 Taxes Payable. . Mayor Probst confirmed that, if a continuation were needed, the City would be required to schedule another date for the adoption hearing. Mr. Post stated that this was correct. If this were . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 13, 1999 5 to occur, he would recommend the adoption hearing be scheduled for Monday, December 20, 1999 which would coincide with the regularly scheduled Worksession. Mayor Probst asked ifthere would be enough time to provide notification if the continuation date was December 13, 1999 and the adoption hearing was December 20, 1999. Mr. Post stated that it would be determined at the December 6, 1999 meeting if a continuation was needed. At that time, the adoption hearing would be scheduled and notification would be provided. MOTION: Councilmember Malone moved and Councilmember Larson seconded a motion to adopt Resolution #99-31, Adopting the Truth in Taxation Public Hearing Dates for the Proposed 2000 Taxes Payable. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. August 30, 1999 Regular Council Meeting Mr. Post requested the following changes: On page 14, condition number two of the Motion, first line, the word "paper" should be changed to "paver." On page 18, second paragraph, the first line should read, "he did not feel the Council Subcommittee should include..." On page 19, first paragraph, the third sentencc should read, "Mayor Probst stated that he would SUDPOr! holding the picnic..." MOTION: Councilmember Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Rem seconded a motion to approve the meeting minutes ofthe August 30, 1999 Regular Council Meeting, as amended. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). CONSENT CALENDAR A. Claims and Payroll B. Authorize Engagement ofImpact Planning MOTION: Councilmember Malone moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to approve the Consent Calendar and authorize execution of all necessary doclunents 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 Because the applicants had not yet arrived, Ms. Randall requested that consideration of item 7 A, Planning Cases, be delayed. Mayor Probst concurred and directed staffto continue with item 7B. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 13, 1999 6 B. Resolution #99-27, Receive Bids, 1999 Storm Water Management Utility Ditch Cleaning Project (Base Bid) and Arden Manor Park Improvements (Alternate) . Mr. Brown explained that bids were received and opened for the McClung Drive Drainage Improvements and Arden Manor Park Improvement projects on September 8, 1999. Bids were received from two contractors. Both bids had proper bid guarantees in the amount often percent as required. The bids ranged from $158,617.45 to $181,930.75. Nadeau Utility, Inc. was the low bid at $6,400 below the Engineer's estimate and reflected a reasonable price for the work. The City Engineer has had no direct experience working with Nadeau Utility, Inc. or the proposed subcontractors. However, other project managers at BRW have had experience with the contractor and have indicated that the projects required above average oversight on the part of the Owner/Engineer, but that the final projects were completed satisfactorily. The work included in these projects would not be particularly difficult, although the McClung Drive work was located within several private properties and will require significant coordination with residents and attention to detail with regard to final restoration of the project site. Based upon the type of work included in the project and comments from other BRW staff, it was the opinion of the City Engineer that Nadeau Utility, Inc. would be capable of completing the project satisfactorily. . The Base Bid amount for was for work associated with the McClung Drive Drainage Improvements Project. The Bid Alternative #1 amount was for work associated with the Arden Manor Park Improvements. If the Council elected to only award the Base Bid for the McClung Drive Drainage Improvements, the total contract amount would be $31,916.50. The tentative schedule would begin the project on September 20, ] 999 with the McClung Drive Drainage Improvements being completed October I, 1999 and the Arden Manor Park Improvements being completed on November ]5, 1999. Mr. Brown advised that staff recommends the City Council award the 1999 Storm Water Management Utility Ditch Cleaning Project (Base Bid) and Arden Manor Park Improvements (Alternate) to Nadeau Utility, Inc. for an amonnt not to exceed $158,617.45. Councilmember Malone noted that Bid Alternative #] for the Arden Manor Park would be dependent upon the decision made in agenda item 7C, Conveyance of Property from the Arden Manor Mobi]e Home Park. He suggested that the Base Bid be awarded as a separate motion from Bid Alternate # 1, the Arden Manor Park Improvements. The City Council concurred. Councilmember Malone moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to approve Reso]ution #99-27, Part A, awarding the 1999 Storm Water Management Utility Ditch Cleaning Project (Base Bid) to Nadeau Utility, Inc. for an amount not to exceed $3] ,916.50. . Councilmember Larson noted that Mr. Brown had indicated little experience with Nadeau Utility, Inc. Additionally, other BRW staff had indicated the contractor required above average MOTION: . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 13,1999 7 oversight. He assumed that if the City Council moved forward with both the Base Bid and Bid Alternative # 1, any additional costs incurred by the City Engineer would not make up for the difference in bids. Mr. Brown stated that this contract would be under an ongoing contract with the City. Mayor Probst requested Mr. Stafford's opinion of the recommendation by the City Engineer. Mr. Stafford stated that, although he had no direct experience with Nadeau Utility Inc., the nature of the work to be accomplished would lead him to believe that the contractor would have no problem getting the job done properly. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). Mayor Probst suggested that the City Council move on to the discussions of the conveyance of property from Arden Manor Mobile Home Park. C. Approving Conveyance of Property from the Arden Manor Mobile Home Park Mr. Post explained that in 1999 the City proceeded with plans to upgrade the Arden Manor Park. The City Council discussed that the estimated $68,040 in site preparation and drainage costs should be the responsibility of the property owner in the form of cost participation or special assessments. The property owner was approached on this matter and would only commit to funding $10,000 for these improvements. When advised of the response of the property owner, the City Council directed staffto explore other alternatives, including a land conveyance in lieu of special assessments. Staff has met several times with the park owner on the land conveyance option and the park owner is amenable to this funding option. Mr. Post noted that this was option was not necessarily being endorsed by staff. Rather, it was simply an alternative presented to the park owner. Councilmember Malone stated that he recalled suggesting to staff an in-kind trade with the park owner in order to fund the proposed improvements. However, it had not been his intent that the City would acquire the park easement property. He would have no interest in owning the park land as it would not benefit the City and he did not support this recommendation. His intent had been that the park owner provide the City with easements for future City improvements. Councilmember Larson asked how large the park easement property was. Mr. Post stated that the park easement property was 3.61 acres and was located to the west ofthe City's access easement. Mayor Probst stated that when the City Council had discussed funding options for the park improvements, he had interpreted Councilmember Malone's suggestion the same way as staff. He was not sure that he would agree that acquiring this land was not beneficial. The recommendation of staff would give the City fee title to 3.61 acres and the facilities. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 13,1999 8 . Mayor Probst stated that he wanted it made clear that, if the City were to acquire the park easement property, it would not be receiving the property as park land. The land would be deeded to the City for whatever appropriate purpose the City chose to use it for. At this point the land would continue to be used as a park facility for the mobile home park. Councilmember Aplikowski stated that she could not understand why the mobile home park owner did not feel that the park property was enough of an investment to do the improvements himself. If she were in the same position as the park owner, it would bother her that the City owned property within the mobile home park. She indicated that she had always been opposed to the City doing a great deal of work at the Arden Manor Mobile Home Park. She felt that, while this proposal would not be a bad option, she still felt uncertain whether it was the right thing to do. Councilmember Larson asked Councilmember Malone to further explain his intent in the City making a trade with the mobile home park owner. Councilmember Malone stated that his intent had been regarding the long-term considerations of the property. He noted that there was a plan to move the entrance to the mobile home park to line up with Round Lake Road, which will cost the City money. Additionally, there have been long term plans for running the extension of Round Lake Boulevard to Highway 10. His intent had been for a trade-off in which the City would acquire some right-of-way for this proposed road extension, rather than title to the park easement. He further noted that the park easement would not line up with any future right-of- way for the Round Lake Boulevard extension. . Councilmember Malone stated that the Mayor had made some important points and noted that this would be an inexpensive way to acquire property, although the land was not useful for purposes other than its current use. He felt it should be made clear that the City would not be receiving this land as park land. He indicated that he might be willing to support the request. Councilmember Larson asked why the City of Arden Hills would incur costs if the mobile home park entrance were to be realigned. Councilmember Malone stated that, if the City wanted this realignment to be done, it would require a right-of-way. Mayor Probst stated that this realignment would be accomplished as part of the Highway 96 reconstruction project and would be a Ramsey County expenditure. Councilmember Larson noted that, in the event that the mobile home park were to redevelop and the residents moved out this would result in a significant cost to any potential buyer who would be required to purchase all the mobile homes in the park. Councilmember Aplikowski agreed and added that this would be a long involved process as there are no other communities within the Twin Cities area that accept older mobile homes. She noted that, per State law, the residents being displaced must be given 90 day notice and must be provided with an equal status of living arrangements. . Mr. Post suggested that the City Council resume discussions of Resolution #99-27, since the decision to acquire the park easement property was dependent upon whether or not the City Council wished to proceed with the Arden Manor Park Improvement Project. Mayor Probst . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 13,1999 9 stated that he would prefer for the City Council to state its approval or disapproval of the land conveyance first. Mr. Post stated that the mobile home park owner had signed and will execute the agreement. Councilmember Larson asked the mobile home park owner to explain his future plans for the mobile home park. Mr. Frances Husnik, Arden Manor Mobile Home Park owner, stated that he had no plans for selling the mobile home park. He intends to retire soon and will be putting the mobile home park into a limited partnership with family members. He noted that he owns several other mobile home parks. MOTION: Councilmember Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Larson seconded a motion to direct staff to execute the Conveyance of Real Estate Agreement with the Arden Manor Mobile Home Park owner giving the City of Arden Hills fee title ownership of the former "Park Easement" property at the Arden Manor Mobile Home Park. Councilmember Malone requested that the motion be amended to include language indicating that tlle City of Arden Hills was accepting this land transfer, that it was not the intent of the City Council to define the park easement property as park land, and that the City was not constrained to continue the use of the land as a park. Councilmembers Aplikowski and Larson agreed to the amendment. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). B. Resolution #99-27, Receive Bids, 1999 Storm Water Management Utility Ditch Cleaning Project (Base Bid) and Arden Manor Park Improvements (Alternate) (continued) MOTION: Councilmember Malone moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to approve Resolution #99-27, Part B, awarding the Arden Manor Park Improvements (Alternate) to Nadeau Utility, Inc. for an amount not to exceed $126,700.95. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). Mayor Probst suggested that items D and E under Unfinished and New Business be discussed prior to the Planning Cases. D. Pay Request #5, Forest Lake Contracting, West Round Lake Road, Phase I Mr. Brown explained that Forest Lake Contracting had substantially completed the West Round Lake Road, Phase I project. The traffic switch was scheduled for Monday, September 13, 1999 and had been accomplished. BRW and City staff will conduct a walk-through inspection during the week of September 13th and generate a final punch list of items for the Contractor to complete. Pay request #5 included payment for excavation, roadway, trail and sidewalk construction work completed through August 31, 1999. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 13,1999 10 Mr. Brown advised that the City Engineer recommends the City Council approve pay request #5 in the amount of$170,883.95 for Forest Lake Contracting. A rctainage of 5 percent was being held for the project. Mayor Probst asked ifthe City Engineer expected this project to be accomplished under budget. Mr. Brown stated that he anticipated the project to be completed approximately $10,000 or more below budget. Mayor Probst asked Mr. Stafford ifhe was satisfied with the work accomplished so far. Mr. Stafford stated that the project has gone well. The Public Works Department had inspected the manholes and pipe and a bacteria test was performed on the newly installed water main. If the results of this test are acceptable, then the water main will be put into service. Contrary to his comment at a previous City Council meeting, Couneilmember Malone stated that the southbound lane of West Round Lake Road was wide enough. He noted that there appeared to be a hump in the road where the stub road intersects with the southbound lane. Mr. Brown stated that the southbound lane was being reviewed, as there had been other issues with the pavement. Councilmember Malone expressed his disapproval of eastbOlU1d Highway 96 being brought down to one lane at the West Round Lake Road intersection. MOTION: Councilmember Larson moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to approve pay request #5 in the amount of $170,883.95 for Forest Lake Contraeting. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). E. Allied Blacktop, Pay Request #1 (Final), 1999 Sealcoating Project Mr. Brown explained that Allied Blaektop had completed the 1999 Sealcoating Project. Pay Request #1 reflects the first and final payment for the work of $25,635.48, which was less than the contract amount. The existing striping on Valentine Lake Road was protected during the sealcoating process by use of tape installed by a separate contractor hired by the City, which saved some money. City staff removed the tape following sealcoating operations. With the sealcoating around it, the striping should last another 10 years. Mr. Brown advised that the City Engineer recommends the City Couneil approve pay request #1 (final payment) in the amount of $25,635.48 for Allied Blacktop. No retainage was being held for the project. Mayor Probst asked ifMr. StatTord was pleased with the outcome of the project. Mr. Stafford stated that he was. MOTION: Councilmember Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Malone seconded a motion to approve pay request #1 (final payment) in the amount of $25,635.48 for Allied Blacktop. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). A. Planning Cases ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 13,1999 11 . 1. Case #99-14, Timothy Stowman, 1191 Carlton Drive, Variance Ms. Randall explained that the applicant was requesting approval of a side yard setback variance (5 feet proposed, when 10 feet is required) for an attached garage and living space addition to a single-family lot zoned R-l. The applicant currently has a one-car tuck-under garage 15 fcet by 24 feet. The applicant was proposing a 9 foot 6 inch by 24 foot garage addition, thereby providing the applicant with a 24 foot 6 inch by 24 foot attached garage. The applicant was also asking to increase the bedroom space above the proposed garage. The applicant has evaluated other locations for the garage and home addition, however, this was the only location they felt would work with the existing home. StaIr had found that the City has made the findings in numerous variance requests that the provision of a two-car garage on a property provides for a reasonable use of that property. Other homes in this neighborhood have two car garages. The proposed garage addition does not provide for more room than a standard two-car garage. A new garage would fit on the east side of the home; however, there is a steep slope from the street and an existing deck. . The home already has two standard bedrooms. The home could be expanded four feet six inches without needing a variance. This would allow for the two bedrooms to be expanded. The bedroom to the north could also be expanded out the back of the home. Although these spaces may not be as large as the applicant desires, they do provide for a reasonable use ofthe property in relation to other homes in the City. The house addition could be reduced on the west side and expanded without a variance to the north. Ms. Randall advised that the Planning Commission recommended approval of Planning Case #99-14, Side Yard Setback Variance (5 feet proposed, when 10 feet is required) for an attached garage and house addition as requested, based on the following: . "Findings - side yard setback" section of the September 1, 1999 Planning Commission memo . support from the neighbors . drainage issues to the north . roof of the garage would be above grade . other homes in the neighborhood have two car garages . the house is smaller than other houses in the neighborhood . the large distance between neighbors. Ms. Randall stated that two letters in support from neighbors were included in the staff report. . Mayor Probst noted that there was no information regarding the dimensions of the home to the west of the applicant's. He asked what would happen if the home to the west were to expand to the east. Ms. Randall stated that there was 45 feet between the home to the west and the applicant's property line. The garage on the home to the west was on the west side so any garage additions would not affect the applicant. She indicated that it would take a considerable house ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 13, 1999 12 . addition to reach the setback limits on the property to the west. Additionally, the lot to the west was much wider than the applicant's. Councilmember Malone expressed concern for the request and suggested that the proper solution would be for the applicant to purchase five feet of/and from the property to the west. He agreed that the house had been built according to the slope and was made to fit properly with the contours ofthe property. He did understand staffs preference that the bulk of the home not be right on the property line. He felt that the proposed garage was acceptable but was not certain about the house addition. He noted that most other homes in the area were built more towards the centers ofthe lots. Councilmember Aplikowski asked if the proposed house addition would be possible if the City Council were to take the stand that the applicant must acquire land from the neighbor to the west. Ms. Randall stated that, if the neighbor were willing to sell a portion of their land, the addition would be possible. The applicant would have to request a minor subdivision. Mayor Probst confirmed that a variance would not be required for this scenario. Ms. Randall stated that this was correct. . Councilmember Rem asked if this option had been discussed with the applicant. Ms. Randall stated that staff had briefly discussed this option with the applicant, however, the applicant had felt that a variance would be easier. She was not sure what discussions the applicant may have had with the neighbor regarding this possibility. Councilmember Rem asked ifit had been presented to the applicant that the City would prefer a land acquisition rather than variance. Ms. Randall stated that the idea had been discussed as an option. Councilmember Larson asked if either of the two letters received by the Planning Commission had been from adjacent neighbors. Ms. Randall stated that the property owner to the west had been present at the Planning Commission meeting and was in full support of the request. Councilmember Larson asked if the applicant had offered reasons for not adding onto the other side of the house. Ms. Randall stated that there was a fairly new deck on the east side of the home. Additionally, the applicant was looking for additional bedroom space and the east end of the home contains the kitchen and dining room areas. It would not flow well with the interior layout to add a bedroom off the kitchen. Councilmember Malone asked, ifthe Council were to consider staffs original recommendation, would it be possible to add on to the rear of the home. Ms. Randall stated that it would be possible to expand to the north without a variance. She indicated that the applicant had expressed concern for the drainage in this area. The homes to the north of the applicant are higher and the drainage does flow down towards the applicant's home. In order to expand to the north, the applicant would be required to re-grade the property. Ms. Randall noted that the applicant would be allowed to expand four and one-half feet to the west without a variance. . Mayor Probst expressed his support of the request. He felt that the addition was the logical area for the bedroom expansion. He was not sure that allowing the garage and not the house addition would serve the neighborhood. He was persuaded to support the request because the home to the ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 13, 1999 13 . west was far away from this home and the applicant had the support of his neighbors. Additionally the grade of the property would make expansion to the north difficult. Councilmember Aplikowski concurred with the Mayor and indicated that if the garage were allowed, it would only make sense to allow the house addition in order to maintain a straight alignment of the home. Mayor Probst asked the applicant if he had anything to add. Mr. Timothy Stowman, 1191 Carlton Drive, stated that one issue with only allowing the garage addition was that the garage is only 75 percent below grade. It terms of a good sight line, it would help the garage addition to allow the house addition as well. He added that the east side of the home has an addition without a full basement, which would make it difficult to expand this direction. MOTION: Councilmember Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Larson seconded a motion to approve Planning Case #99-14, Side Yard Setback Variance (5 feet proposed, when 10 feet is required) for an attached garage and house addition as requested. Mayor Probst suggested that the basis for approving this request, as listed earlier by staff, be included in the motion. Couneilmember Malone stated that an additional reason for approval had been the City Council's consideration of the unique circumstances of the property to the west, being oversized and oddly shaped, which resulted in the home being further away from the lot line than would be considered standard. . Councilmembers Aplikowski and Larson concurred with the amendments to the motion. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). 2. Case #99-15, Guidant (CPI), 4100 Hamline Avenue North, Planned Unit Development Amendment Ms. Randall explained that the applicant was proposing to update their Master Plan to include an auditorium addition to Building E and D. Secondly, the applicant was requesting approval of an amendment to their previously approved planned unit development to allow for the expansion of Building E to include an auditorium at their campus which is located at 4100 Hamline Avenue. Building E was primarily used for research and development activities. The existing Master Plan shows a future campus expansion by adding Buildings G and H. These would be primarily for manufacturing facilities. The applicant proposed and was granted approval to expand Building E due to the growth of the research and development area of the company. At the time, a smaller auditorium was planned inside the expansion. After further review of their business needs and layout of the proposed expansion, they discovered that they would better benefit from a larger auditorium linked to the research and development area. The use ofthe auditorium will be for internal meetings primarily conducted every month discussing development or new products. . The applicant was asking that they be allowed to show proof of parking. With the additions proposed to Building E, the parking area will be short 29 parking spaces. The parking lot to the ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 13,1999 14 . east is not an attached parking lot to the campus. The City Council required that the applicant either provide cross easements to this lot, or that they combinc the north lot with the campus. The applicant has chosen to combine the parcel they own to the north with the campus and show proof of parking on the parcel to the north. The applicant has taken steps by submitting the required paperwork to Ranlsey County for the combination. The applicant was only required to show proof of parking on for 223 spaces for the addition to Building E. They were showing a total of 443 parking spaces on the north parcel as proof of parking for the 223 parking spots to be constructed this fall across Fernwood Avenue. This location will also allow for the 29 parking spaces that they are short for the auditorium. The exterior of the proposed auditorium addition was designed to match the existing exterior of Building E. It would meet the height, floor area ratio, lot coverage and landscape lot area criteria. The applicant was proposing to add a fence and gates at the entrance to Building D. The fencing and gates will match the existing fences and gates on the campus. This was to allow the applicant to enclose the loading dock area if needed. The proposal would meet all setback requirements with the exception of Building H. This setback will increase when the property to the north is combined. Ms. Randall advised that the Planning Commission recommended approval of Planning Case #99-15, Master Plan/Planned Unit Development amendment, subject to the following conditions: . 1. The 29 parking spaces shown as proof of parking be provided if the use of the auditorium changes. 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 District Approval. 2. 3. 4. Councilmember Malone asked if the entrance to the eastern parking lot had been modified. Ms. Randall stated that the entrance to the east parking lot had been modified during the last Planning Case. MOTION: Councilmember Malone moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to approve Planning Case #99-15, Master Plan/Planned Unit Development amendment, subject to the following conditions: 1. The 29 parking spaces shown as proof of parking be provided if the use of the auditorium changes. 2. Provide erosion control in the area that will be disturbed. 3. Lighting meet the requirements ofthe Zoning Ordinance Section V, E, 3, a, b, c, and d. 4. Rice Creek Watershed District Approval. . The motion carried unanimously (5-0). ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 13,1999 15 . 3. Case #99-17, Guidant (CPI), 4354-4396 Round Lake Road, Site Plan Review Mr. Post noted that there had been a bench handout from Guidant expressing their reaction to the recommendation to screen the proposed generator. The applicant does not feel screening should be necessary. Ms. Randall explained that the applicant was requesting approval of a site plan to allow for a 12 foot 9 and one-half inch by 4 foot 3 inch generator for their facility located at 4354-4369 Round Lake Road. The City Council approved a request for a site plan review for an office/warehouse building with Planning Case #86-15. Guidant utilizes a portion of the building for its shipping and receiving. The generator was proposed to be 6 foot 7 inches tall and setback from the building 10 feet. The generator would be used during power outages and once a month for preventive maintenance. The Zoning Ordinance states that screening shall be provided where mechanical operating equipment is located on the ground or the roof of the premises. The proposed generator has an enclosure to weatherproof and reduce sound. Staff recommended that a fence or wall be placed along the south side to screen the generator from the neighboring lot. The generator would be screened from the east and west due to the C shape of the building. The applicant was proposing an enclosure to reduce the sound and enhance the appearance of the generator. The applicant has supplied staff with numbers showing the proposed sound levels and a list of comparable sounds. . The numbers of all fall below a diesel truck, which are currently used in tbis area. Ms. Randall advised that the Planning Commission recommended approval of Planning Case #99-17, Site Plan, to allow for the construction of a 4 foot 3 inch by 12 foot 9 1/2 inch generator, subject to the following conditions: 1. The generator only be run a maximum of five hours per month for servicing, or for the duration of a power failure. 2. The generator be placed as close as possible to the building and transformer that the Building Code will allow. 3. A minimum of two protective bollards be placed to protect the generator. Ms. Randall noted that the applicant had been proposing to include the bollards to protect the generator and does not disagree with the other two conditions. According to the Building Inspector, the generator would be required to be a minimum of 10 feet from any opening and three feet from the Northern States Power transformer. If the generator was placed in the proposed location, the generator will need to be 10 feet from the building to be setback the required three feet from the transformer. . Councilmember Malone asked if the proposed generator would be diesel. Ms. Randall stated that this was correct. Councilmember Malone noted that the City of Arden Hills has regulations regarding fuel storage and asked where the diesel fuel would be kept. Ms. Randall stated that the fuel would be stored within the unit. Mr. Dave Reimers, Guidant Corporation, stated that the ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 13,1999 16 . unit would be self-contained, Councilmember Malone asked how much fuel the generator would hold, Mr, Reimers stated that the generator would hold 43 gallons of diesel fuel. Councilmember Malone stated that he understood the applicant's argument regarding the screening of the generator. However, he was hesitant due to another upcoming Planning Case in which the generator will be placed in the front yard, The City Council must be careful not to set a precedence allowing generators to not be screened, In this case, there were unique circumstances that may eliminate the need for the required screening, Mayor Probst agreed with Councilmember Malone that there were unique circumstances involved, The location of the generator would be within the loading dock area and he was not sure that the self-contained generator would be less attractive than the trucks in the area, MOTION: Councilmember Larson moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to approve Planning Case #99-17, Site Plan, to allow for the construction of a 4 foot 3 inch by 12 foot 9 1/2 inch generator, subject to the following conditions: 1. The gencrator only be run a maximum of five hours per month for servicing, or for the duration of a power failure, The generator be placed as close as possible to the building and transformer that the Building Code will allow, A minimum of two protective bollards be placed to protect the generator. 2. . 3. Councilmember Malone noted that the Planning Commission had not required the screening of the generator as recommended by staff. He suggested that a statement be added to the motion explaining that the reasons the screening was not being required in this Planning Case was due to the unique circumstances that the generator would be in the loading dock area and it would be shielded from public view by its enclosure and location. Since the City Council was not requiring screening that was required by the Ordinance, Councilmember Larson asked if the Planning Case would require a variance. Ms, Randall stated that, although a variance would be required, approving the Planning Case as moved would be acceptable. Councilmember Larson asked ifit should be identified within the motion that the City Council was granting a variance. Ms. Randall stated that this information could be added to the motion. However, this would be ret1ected in the meeting minutes. Councilmember Malone noted that Guidant Corporation was leasing their space within the building. He asked, ifthe City Council approved the generator, who would approval be granted to. Ms. Randall stated that the approval would be granted to the parcel. If Guidant were to leave the building, a new tenant could install a generator in the same location while abiding by the same conditions as the applicant. . Councilmember Larson asked that staff include language in the motion that this was a variance that was being granted due to the unique circumstances as described by Councilmember Malone. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER] 3, ] 999 17 . The motion carried unanimously (5-0). 4. Case #99-16, Arden Manor, 4605 North Prior Avenue, Special Use Permit Ms. Randall eXplained that the applicant was requesting approval of an amended Special Use permit for Arden Manor Mobile Home Park. The mobile home park is located north of Highway 96, west of highway 10, and east ofI-35W. Arden Manor was currently operating on a special use permit, which was issued in 1971 with Planning Case #71-21. This did not include the already existing (north portion) mobile home park. Several amendments to the special use permit have been approved since, however, they have never included the north portion of the park. R-3 Zoning, the Zoning District of the mobile home park, requires that mobile home parks have a special use permit. Since this portion of the mobile home park was in existence prior to the City Zoning Ordinance, it could exist so long as no modifications were made. Over the years, and last few months, Arden Manor has been taking steps to improve the northern portion of the park by resurfacing the road and removing several aging single wide mobile homes and replacing them with one double wide mobile home for every two single wide homes. . The northern area had a building dividing Banyan Street and Abele Street. This building has since been removed. There was also a mobile home in the center of Abele Street on the west end. This has also been removed. The road width remaining was approximately 70 feet wide. The applicant was proposing to rename the newly resurfaced road Banyan Street. The applicant was proposing to close offthe section of road leading from Todd Drive to Abele Street, which has been done, and, if approved, place a unit in this location. Due to the reduction in overall units staff does not see a concern with adding a unit in the proposed location. Staff would however, request a Master Plan be created. In the past, parking was allowed on Banyan Street and Abele Street. These are very wide and accommodate on-street parking. Staff would recommend some striping be incorporated to guide parking and driving directions. The Code requires 24 foot drive lanes and 9 foot by 18 foot parking stalls. The end of the cul-de-sac was wide enough to turn around if cars are not parked on the street. Staff recommended no parking on the end and sides of the cul-de-sac to allow for traffic turnaround. Because the north portion of the park was not included in the special use permit in the past, there were no site plans available for the area. Staffrecommended that the applicant work with staff to update the special use permit within the next two years. This would include a scaled drawing of the entire park, landscape plan, and Master Plan for the park. . Staff was aware that the north portion of the park docs not meet all the requirements of the original special use permit such as lot size. Staff was also aware that several aspects of the south part of the park do not meet the requirements as well. Staff did not require more specific infornlation at this time due to the timing of Highway 96 reconstruction, the nature of the ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 13, 1999 18 . proposed changes, as well as the fact that the road close off change has already been completed. It was staff s intent that the applicant work to clean up the issues with the original special use permit over the next two years by doing a full review of the mobile home park and creating a Master Plan. Ms. Randall advised that the Planning Commission recommended approval of Planning Case #99-16, Special Use Permit, to modify the north portion of the park, subject to the following conditions: I. The applicant work with the City to update the special use permit for the entire park within the next two years. 2. "No Parking" signs be placed on the west end of Banyan Street and along the sides 100 feet from the end of the street. 3. Banyan Street be marked to show parking and drive lanes to be approved by the City Engineer. Ms. Randall stated that, at the Planning Commission meeting, the applicant had supplied the Planning Commission with some revised drawings that better represent the park in the past and with the modifications. Mayor Probst stated that it appcared as though there had been a net decrease in the number of units within the mobile home park. Ms. Randall stated that this was correct. . Mayor Probst expressed concern for the length of the dead-end on Banyan Street and wanted to ensure the ability for emergency vehicles to turn around. Ms. Randall stated that the City Code requires that a cul-de-sac not be longer than 500 feet and this would be less than that. With the width of the road, it will be possible for vehicles to turn around, providing thc end is clear of parking. With regard to the recommendation by staff that the applicant update the special use permit for the entire park within two years, Councilmember Larson wondered if this was to be a request or a condition of approval. If the recommendation were to be a condition, he would feel more comfortable ifit included the elements identified by staff, which include a scale drawing of the park, a landscape plan, and a Master Plan. He asked ifthe landscape plan was to identify what was currently existing or future plans for landscaping. Ms. Randall stated that staff was looking for both the current status and future plans of the park. This will allow the City to be proactive when considering the location of future homes and to determine what improvements may need to be made. . Coul1cilmember Larson stated that staff would benefit from a more detailed drawing of the park as it exists now. It was his belief that this drawing would not take two years to accomplish. He would prefer that the condition for approval spell out the three elements staff was looking for and to require the scale drawing to be done within six months. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 13,1999 19 . Councilmember Aplikowski stated that it had been her belief that the City had required the Arden Manor Mobile Home Park to replace old trailers with wood-sided trailers. Ms. Randall stated that this was no longer a requirement. Council member Aplikowski stated that when the special use permit is updated, this requirement should be modified. Ms. Randall concurred. MOTION: Councilmember Larson moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to approve Planning Case #99-16, Special Use Permit, to modify the north portion of the park, subject to the following conditions: I. The applicant work with the City to update the special use permit for the entire park, including a scale drawing ofthe current conditions of the entire park within six months and a landscape plan and Master Plan within the next two years. 2. "No Parking" signs be placed on the west end of Banyan Street and along the sides 100 feet from the end of the street. 3. Banyan Street be marked to show parking and drive lanes to be approved by the City Engineer. Mr. Husnik stated that he had supplied the Planning Commission with drawings depicting the previous status of the park and the current status since having made some upgrades. He was not sure how much more detail he could provide. He indicated that the drawing he presented was taken from a survey and enlarged. . CowlCilmember Aplikowski noted that the drawing supplied by Mr. Husnik did not include lot sizes or locations of homes. Councilmember Larson stated that staff would require a more detailed drawing. He suggested that the applicant work with the City staff in order to create a plan that meets staff needs. Councilmember Aplikowski suggested that the detailed drawing include upgrades that have been made to the park over the years, the current status of the park and future plans for the park. The drawing should also include the number of lots, the sizes of these lots and how many lots there are per acre. She agreed that the applicant work with staff to provide the necessary details. Mr. Husnik stated that creating these drawings might be difficult, as he will be out of town most ofthe winter. Councilmember Aplikowski suggested that someone in his office work on the drawings. Mr. Husnik stated that he had no one available to do this sort of work. Councilmember Aplikowski asked if the applicant would require more than six months to accomplish the drawings. Mr. Husnik stated that he would, however, some of the mobile homes may be moved within that time. . Mayor Probst stated that the point of having the applicant create detailed drawings was for staff to understand where the mobile home park was heading. He stated that staff did not feel there was enough documentation to evaluate the status of the park. Mr. Husnik reiterated that he had provided the staff with drawings showing the previous and current status of the park. Councilmember Aplikowski stated that these plans did not include measurements of the lots or ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 13,1999 20 . any future plans. Mr. Husnik stated that he was not certain of his future plans for the park. He explained some of the changes made recently. Council member Aplikowski stated that the detailed drawings of the mobile home park were a condition of approval. She suggested the motion be amended to allow the applicant nine months to accomplish the scale drawing of the current conditions of the entire park. Mr. Husnik stated he would be back in town next spring. Councilmembers Larson and Aplikowski agreed to amend condition number one of the motion to require a scale drawing of the current conditions of the entire park within nine months. Mayor Probst instructed the applicant to work with the City staff to update the special use permit. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). F. City Events Task Foree Appointments Councilmember Aplikowski asked that consideration ofthis item be postponed, as she would prefer to wait for responses from a notice that was being run in the next Newsletter. The City Council agreed. . G. I-35W Corridor Coalition Update, Mayor Probst Mayor Probst stated that a worksession had been held which involved the local cities. The Mayors and staff represented all the cities. He indicated that Mr. Williams, who happens to be a Metropolitan Council Commissioner, moderated the discussions. The worksession included discussions on where the I-35W Corridor Coalition is going and where the organization is now, as well as some of the issues the Coalition is currently faced with. The I-35W Corridor Coalition must make some decisions with regard to supporting projects and seeking funding. Many projects were presented to the Coalition. The City of Arden Hills forwarded a project for the redevelopment of the triangle site. The project would involve redevelopment of the site as well as consideration ofthe TCAAP site and major transit improvements. This idea had been favorably received by the Coalition. The City of Roseville had presented an idea to look to the Council and Legislature to allow the cities to set up a sub-regional funding mechanism. This would allow the Coalition to identify how and where improvements are to be accomplished and funded. . Mayor Probst stated that there had been a subsequent meeting intended to allow the Mayors to have a policy discussion regarding how they anticipate the body of the organization to continue. There had been a great deal of discussion and recognition ofthe successes of the Coalition to date, which has largcly been due to the personalities and cooperation that has existed over the last three years. There had been some concern ofthis continuing in the future. Suggestions had been made to change the structure of the organization to ensure that it does continue successfully. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 13,1999 21 . There was a high degree of comfort that the organization has the right structure. One thing that may change would be the need for more full-time staffing as the Coalition moves into major proj ects. Mayor Probst stated that Strauss Management, retained by the Coalition on a part time basis, deserved credit for the ability of the Coalition to receive grant funding of behalf of the cities. To date the organization has funded less than 20 percent of the actual costs incurred for studies and information gathering. One item discussed at the meeting was that, as long as the organization was able to continue attracting funding sources, the cities would continue to get a break financially. At some point, it will be likely that the cities will have to make a difficult fiscal decision on whether or not to continue. Mayor Probst stated that the meeting with the other Mayors had been very positive and there was confidence that the nature of the organization was structured properly at this time. The organization will move forward with dealing with the staffing issues. Several options were identified as to how this may happen, such as either directly hiring someone through the Coalition or look to communities to dedicate staff personnel for reimbursement. . Mayor Probst stated that the next Board meeting would be September 29, 1999. This meeting will be followed a week later by a meeting in New Brighton with the full Metropolitan Council. He noted that this was the first time the Metropolitan Council will meet outside Saint Paul. Mayor Probst stated tllat he would be providing a presentation with Tom Simonson and David Windle. Mr. Simonson will be taking over the Community Development Directors chair in Mr. Ringwald's absence. Mr. Windle is the GIS expert from Roseville. Mayor Probst stated that he would be suggesting to the Metropolitan Council an interest on the part of the I-35W Corridor Coalition to set up some alternate funding source to deal with the issues of the Coalition. He felt that in the near future projects could be forwarded to use this funding source. The next study for the 1-35 Corridor Coalition will be a build-out plan evaluation. At the worksession all communities were invited to identify what future development they felt may be coming in the Coalition cities. It appeared that, if everything were accomplished according to what was discussed, the local transportation system would be likely to collapse. Thc Coalition will be working with a design consultant to provide scenarios and options on a case-by-case basis for transit. It will be at this point that projects will evolve, and it was the Mayor's belief that the triangle proj ect may be a good candidate. Mayor Probst stated that while the Mayors and Administrators have over the years been actively involved with the I-35W Corridor Coalition, they have not done a good job of keeping the Councils involved. The intent would be to provide the Councils with information and presentations in order for them to be more involved. . Councilmember Malone expressed his surprise that the I-35W Corridor Coalition was receptive to the triangle project idea. Mayor Probst pointed out that this area directly touches three ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 13,1999 22 . communities. With all the issues surrounding the County Road I interchange, this project did receive good support. One issue was, considering the amount of money it would take to move forward, he did not believe the City of Arden Hills could take this project on its own. The project will require the support of the Coalition to be successful. Councilmember Larson asked how the lack of a decision on the triangle site project would affect moving forward with the Highway 96 reconstruction. He was concerned that the City may not know the future status ofthe triangle site for a couple of years. Mayor Probst stated that progress would not be made on these issues as quickly as he would hope. lIe believed that the Coalition might pursue something within the next six months to one year. At this point the Coalition has a real opportunity to move forward within the two years, or else the opportunity may pass by. Councilmember Larson asked ifthere was any reason the City could not make its recommendation to Ramsey County, given what the City now knows. Mayor Probst stated that the City would not have the benefit of an early endorsement of a concept. Therefore the City will have to take what information is available now and move forward. ADMINISTRATOR COMMENTS . Mr. Post stated that at the last City Council meeting concerns had been raised by Councilmember Larson regarding the language in the Land Conveyance Bill with the Minnesota National Guard. The concern had been what the Minnesota National Guard was expecting relative to the use of the proposed Maintenance Facility. Mr. Post stated that he had spoken to Colonel Dennis Lord, Minnesota National Guard spokesman, who had indicated that the intent of the Minnesota National Guard was not for the City and Ramsey County to build a facility for the agency. Rather the intent had been to have access to the common areas of facility during weekend drills. Mr. Post stated that he had circulated a draft copy ofthe Building Code recodification chapter. He had not heard any feedback from the Councilmembers and assumed he could forward the Chapter to the League of Milmesota Cities for incorporation into the City Code. The primary change was to reference the Minnesota Building Code in many sections, rather than specifying the Code in the language of the Ordinance. This reduced the length of the Building Code and ensured that the City Code would always be in agreement with State requirements. Mr. Post stated that he and Ms. Randall would be meeting with Metropolitan Council representatives on Thursday, September 16, 1999. The meeting will be to discuss the status of the Comprehensive Plan update. Mr. Post had recently received information regarding deficiencies and his goal in meeting with the Metropolitan Council would be to gain a better understanding of what these deficiencies may be in order to correct them. Mr. Post stated that he would also inquire regarding the mandated update of the Watershed Plan for the City's Storm Management Plan. His intent would be to come up with funding sources and to relate this issue to the Water Quality Task Force, hoping to link these two efforts. . Mr. Post stated that he would be meeting with the Minnesota Department of Transportation on Thursday, September 16, 1999. The State has expressed concerns for how County Road I . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 13, 1999 23 intersection will turn out given the WisPark Road. The primary concern was how this would impact the frontage road for the Minnesota Drivers Exam Station and the surplus warehouse run by the State of Minnesota. One solution offered by the Minnesota Department of Transportation would be to build an S curve in the frontage road and move the road to the east. Mr. Post stated that he would provide the City Council with an update of these meetings at the next Worksession. COUNCIL COMMENTS AND COMMITTEE LIAISON ACTIVITY REPORTS Councilmember Larson stated that he had not attended the Newsletter Committee meeting. He believed that the primary discussion at this meeting had been the logo issue. Councilmember Larson stated that the first meeting of the Water Quality Task Force was scheduled for Thursday, September 23, 1999. Councilmember Malone stated that the Minnesota Department of Transportation had come up with a new plan entitled the ABC plan, which stands for Transit, Bottlenecks, and Corridors. The intent oftllis plan would be for a funding overlay to improve transit, reduce bottlenecks and improve corridors. Councilmember Malone stated that at the AMM meeting, Ted Mondale was present to discuss city sprawl. He felt it was ironic that one State agency wanted to stop sprawl while another wanted to build a commuter system to Saint Cloud. Councilmember Aplikowski stated that the Operations Committee would be meeting Thursday, September 16, 1999. Councilmember Aplikowski stated that the Minnesota Women in Government were preparing for a regional meeting. Councilmember Rem stated that she had attended the Northwest Youth and Family Services Board meeting. She stated that the budget was looking good and the organization was considering expansion to communities north of Ramsey County. Councilmember Rem stated that she had signed up for the Human Rights Conference being held next week. Councilmember Rem stated that she was still gathering names for the Website Task Force. She indicated that the City of Roseville would be demonstrating their GIS system and she hoped to attend this demonstration. Councilmember Rem stated that the Trinity Lutheran Church held a Community Fair last weekend. She indicated that the Ramsey County Sheriff Department had a booth for fingerprinting and picture identifications. She suggested that this activity be added to the City's Day in the Park event. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 13, 1999 24 . Councilmember Aplikowski stated that she had heard the Healthy Youth Coalition would be holding a Town Hall meeting, however, she had not received any information regarding this event. Mayor Probst stated that he received a newsletter from the City of New Brighton that included a nice article about the history of the water system and the influence of the Arsenal npon it. Mayor Probst commended stafl for the survey results on the softball program, which were very positive. Mayor Probst stated that the Clean up Day with Shoreview would be coming up soon. Mayor Probst stated that Mr. Post had provided the Councilmembers with a handout regarding the Committee Recognition event. He hoped the Councilmembers would be involved and that there would be a good turnout. Mayor Probst stated that he received an invitation to attend a Red Cross dinner event that he will not be able to attend. He stated that the event will include a guest speaker and will celebrate volunteerism. The dinner will be held Thursday, September 23, 1999 and he invited the Councilmembers to attend. RSVP's must be received by Wednesday, September 15,1999. . Mayor Probst stated that the individual he had hoped to forward to the Metropolitan Council for the Parks and Open Space Commission appointment had not worked out and the City did not forward any other nominations. Mayor Probst stated that staff had been interested in having Cable Commission representatives, Coralie Wilson and Dave Sand visit with the City Council. Mr. Post stated that Dave Sand was tentatively scheduled to attend the Council Work session on September 20, 1999. Mayor Probst noted that the City Council had discussed some sort ofrecognition of the local baseball teams. He felt this issue had become more complicated than he had anticipated. He had received some correspondence from the little leagues that had identified some teams that have done well and he felt that all the teams should be recognized in the near future. Mayor Probst suggested that tile City Council discuss the next step in the hiring process for a new City Administrator. He had received copies of all the resumes sent in response to this position and sorted these resumes into several different categories. He indicated that most of those that he had selected in his first and second cut where included on the list from COlillcilmembers Larson and Aplikowski. . Mayor Probst stated that at this point the Council must decide how to reduce the list of candidates down to a shorter list to interview. He did not feel there was an obvious cut-off number. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 13, 1999 25 . Councilmember Larson stated that the first cut-off had occurred at 14 resumes. When he compared his list with Counci1member Aplikowski's list, the 14 resumes proved to be a good break. He felt that if the Council intended to develop a process to bring the number of candidates down to a more manageable number, the form used for the first cut would not be appropriate. This process worked well for the initial review, but he felt it was not systematic enough to continue with. He suggested that the list of 14 candidates be given to others to consider and reduce down to five candidates. These lists of top live candidates could be compared to each other to determine which five match up the best. Another option would be to simply rank the remaining 14 candidates. Councilmember Aplikowski agreed that the rating system used worked well for the initial review. She had been amazed that Mayor Probst, Councilmember Larson and herself had corne up with virtually the same list of candidates. She noted that it was difficult to gain a true feeling for an individual by simply reading a resume. She suggested that prior to the next cut, the Council discuss what they are looking for with regard to specific experiences and strengths. Mayor Probst suggested that each of the Council Subcommittee members pick out their top five candidates. These lists could then be compared and, if the Subcommittee was able to agree on five or less candidates, these names could be presented to the City Council at the September 20, 1999 W orksession. At that time, assuming that the agreed upon dates for interviewing were still acceptable, the Council could decide if the second day of interviewing would be necessary. . Councilmember Larson stated that it had been difficult for him to single out one or two aspects to look for in each candidate and that the initial review process had taken him a great deal oftime. He felt that it was important to gain an overall understanding of a person's past and many small details to not stand out in the resumes. Mayor Probst agreed that it was difficult to get a feel for a candidate from the resume until the individual comes in for an interview. He noted that when Mr. Fritsinger had been selected, the selection had corne down to two individuals. The other candidate had been a City Administrator and had a great deal of experience. However, in his interview, Mr. Fritsinger had discussed not only the high profile work of a City Administrator, but also his interest in the day-to-day efforts of running the City. Mayor Probst felt that the City had made a good selection with Mr. Fritsinger and he hoped that the Council would be able to find another person who is as down to earth and willing to support the future ofthe City. Mayor Probst asked staff how large the agenda was for the September 20, 1999 Worksession. Mr. Post stated that the agenda included four items to discuss, the City's Pavement Management Program; the petition from the residents on Old Highway lO for the City to extend its water main to this area; his update on the meeting with the Metropolitan Council; and the discussions with Dave Sand from the Cable Commission. Mayor Probst suggested that the Council Worksession conclude with further discussions of the City Administrator hiring process. . ADJOURN . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 13, 1999 26 MOTION: Councilmember Aplikowski moved and Councilmember Rem seconded a motion to adjourn the meeting at 9:34 p.m. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). ~ Dennis Pro st Mayor 1/kfI*e ;L ~ Terrance R. Post Interim City Administrator NOTICE OF MEETINGS The next regular City Council meeting will be held Monday, September 27, 1999 at 7:30 p.m. at the Arden Hills Council chambers.