Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC 02-18-1975 .' ... MINUTES OF SPECiAL COUNCIL MEETING VI I lage of Arden Hi lis Tuesday, February 18, 1975 - 7:30 p.m. V i II age Ha I I CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order by Mayor Crepeau at 7:30 p.m. ROLL CALL Present - Mayor Henry J. Crepeau, Jr., Councilmen Robert Woodburn, Charles Crichton, James Wingert, William Feyerelsen. Absent - None. Also Present - Engineer Donald Christoffersen, Planner Richard Fredlund, Treasurer Richard O'Kelly, Public Works Supervisor Hans Johansen, Code Enforcement Officer Larry Squires, Clerk Administrator Charlotte McNiesh, Deputy Clerk Dorothy Zehm. ... APPROVAL OF MINUTES The approval of Minutes of the Regular Counci I Meeting of February 10, 197~ was deferred to the next Council meeting. BUSINESS FROM THE FLOOR None. REPORT OF PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT SUPERVISOR HANS JOHANSEN Probationary Period - Eugene Waldoch Johansen referred Council to his memo of 2/12/75, noting that Waldoch's probatlo~~.~i9iOd ends March 31, 1975, and recommended he be clas- sified as Atull-time employee at an Increased salary effective 4/1/75. After discussion, Crichton moved, seconded by Wingert, that Council approve, effective April I, 1975, that Eugene Waldoch's salary be $5.90 per hour. Motion carried unanimously. Seminar - Collection System Operators Johansen referred Council to his memo of 2/12/75, requesting Council that he and Wayne Launderville be authorized to attend the Collection System Operators Seminar on March 4, 5 and 6 at the Thunderbird Motel In Bloomington, weather permitting. After discussion, Wingert moved, seconded by Feyereisen, that Council authorize the attendance of Wayne Leunderville and Hans Johansen at the Collection System Operators Seminar at a cost of $30 each, on March 4, 5 and 6, 1975. Motion carried unanimously. Public Works Committee Meeting, February 5, 1975 A. No.8 Lift Station Plans Johansen reported that the revised plans for the No.8 Lift Station construction were reviewed by the Public Works Com- mittee, and the Committee recommends that Council approve the plans and authorize advertisement for bids (specifica- tions have been completed but not received to datel. . After discussion, In which Engineer Christoffersen assured that the Specifications would be available prior to date of Advertisement for Bids, Woodburn moved, seconded by Crichton, that Council authorize advertisement for bids on the No.8 Lift station project, in accordance with revised plans and specifications; bid opening to be on Friday, March 14, 1975, at 1:00 p.m. at the Vi Ilage Hall. Motion carried unanimously. B. Equipment Breakdowns and Hv~t Breaka~e Johansen reported that the Department has sustained some major equipment break-downs this winter, due to the heavy Ice buiid- up, amounting to approximately$950. He also reported that 6 water hydrants have been hit by plows, etc. each costing about $25.00 to repair. Council congratulated the Department on the fine snow removal job so far this winter. C. Beeper Johansen reported that the beeper has been put into service and one cal I has been placed to date. -1- .. Minutes of Special Counci I Meeting Page two February 18, 1975 D. Bethel ~aster Meter Johansen reported that the Bethel Master Meter is now in- stalled and Is ready for pressure test and line flushing. He explained that this wi II be scheduled very soon -- must be done after 7:00 p.M. to accoMModate Bethel College. E. State Aid Road Discussion Johansen reported that the Committee discussed the proposed Lexington Avenue up-grading by Ramsey County, and proposed that drainage up-grading be considered at this time, so both projects can be coordinated. . Crichton suggested that perhaps the Village State-aid streets should be re-studled for possible re-deslgnation. Engineer Christoffersen was requested to research the State-aid street provisions and to prepare a report for Counci I consideration, report is to include rationale re County or State turning streets over to the Vi Ilage. Feyerelsen noted the apparent need for a walking path along Lexington Avenue, which should be considered in the Lexington Avenue up-grading plans. He suggested that the Lexington Avenue up-grading should include the section from County Road D to County Road E, as well as the portion north of County Road E to 1-694 and/or Victoria or to Highway 96. After discussion, McNiesh was requested to Invite Ramsey County Engineer to discuss proposed plans for Lexington Ave. up-grading with the Counci I at the March 17, 1975 '!Ieetlng. REPORT OF VILLAGE ENGINEER DONALD CHRISTOFFERSEN Utill~les - Pemtom Townhouse Villages, Sixth and Seventh Additions and First Addition North Christoffersen referred Council to a letter from Don Lund dated 1/22/75, and reported that, because of the extensive list of items pending cor- rectton, he is not recommending acceptance of the utilities In Additions 6 and 7 or First Addition North at this time. After discussion, Crichton moved, seconded by Wingert, that the Councl I not accept the construction work involved in the request of 1/15/75 (Pemtom 6th and 7th Addltlons and 1st Addition North), untl I items specified as deficiencies have been r,ectitied, and approved by the Vill~ge Engineer. Motion carried unanimously. Christoffersen referred Councl I to his letter of 2/13/75 re estimates of construction cost for bond Items In the Fi"'''''' .........'-- "--~'. re- porting that the cost estimates are based on acceptable unit prices and that the tdal estimated construction cost is reasonable. Matter was referred to Attorney Lynden for his comments. REPORT OF VILLAGE PLANNER RICHARD FREDLUND . Case No, 74-38, Twin City Christian Homes - Special Use Permit Fredlund described the application as a request for a retirement center, to be located in Arden Hills south of the 500 Line track. and north of County Road E, between Highway 51 and Old Highway 10. He said the 2 to 3 story center is to comprise three attached wings, incorporating 150 units (housing about 185 persons) In the first phase, and is sited on roiling terrain, screened to the west by a groye of trees and. to a certain extent. by a h ill to the east. ... Fredlund reported that the Planning Commission, in reviewing the ~roposal, took Into account a letter submitted by Metro Councl I, expressing that they are much in favor of the proposal, and the need for 2000+ units for the elderly In the north suburban area. He said that other points taken Into account were the location of the Arden Plaza shopping center, the faci lities at Bethel Col lege and transportation routes, as they would relate to the proposed center. The Commission also took into account the number of persons at the meet- ing that objected to the proposal, the impact of the Increase of popu- lation, as It related to the community (stating that this is probably a positive factor, as opposed to a negative factor). -2- .Mlnutes of Special Councl I Meeting Page three Febl-uary 18, 1915 Fredlund reported that the Commission recommends Counci I denial of the Special Use Permit, based on the fact that: I, The traffic would be in conflict on County Road E. 2. The density, as totally proposed, would be too heavy for the area. Fredlund also stated that, in the rElqu~st for denial of the Permit, the Planning Commission did recommend that Council' waive the 6-month wait- Ing period before re-submittal of an application, . Crichton stated that, after hearing the recommendations of the Planning Commission, It appears they are indicating that some changes in the plans could make this an acceptable proposal; they are recommending that Council turn It down now, rather than suggesting a different pro- posal., but they don't want the denial to prejudice TCCH's case; if TCCH can make the necessary changes, they should be permitted to return and apply for the Special Use Permit. Woodburn said that one of the problems is density, and aSked,how this could be changed satisfactorily. Reverend Peterson said he could not, at this time, respond to this, but would be willing to re-study this aspect of the proposal with their consu 1i:ants. Feyereisen reported that the Human Rights Commission has not formulated a recommendation to the Counci I, to date, but Chairman Ericson relayed what he considered to be the consensus of the group, If they would take some position on this proposal. Feyereisen reported that the Human Rights Commission had two questions: I. Does the program discriminate socio-economlcally, or in regards TO religious affiliation? 2. Is the program adequate In terms of services for the proposed population? He said that. in response to these two questions, the Human Rights Commission finds that the,TCCH revised its proposal to Include a non- .dls.crlminatory clause and to Include a 10% allocation for the low in- c.ome persons. The Human Rights Commission observes that the TeCH is inCompliance with proper Human Rights philosophy, in so far as the prop:osal Is concerned. It is recommending that if permits are granted that TCCH will provide the City of Arden Hills a "unit report" on their pre,gress on both the "non-discriminatory" and the "low income" .inten- tions of Its present proposal. It further r.9commended that TCCH Im-, PrcJv,e the p I ann i ng for the program component of the i r agency, in order to maximi,'le the home's contribution to the population it wishes to serve. Crichton, Said that, in the presentation, the proximity of the proposed Center -to the shopping center, Bethel College etc. makes the proposed slTe~, good location. He said that he guessed"that the residents would not be expected ,to walk to these faci I ities -- so, In his mind, the proximity of one half mile would probably make little differ~nce. . Peterson said that this ,is one of the criteria the Metro Council Com- mittee, on Aging has listed for proJectsfor the elderly; that it be within i mi Ie of general shopping; residents will be bussed to Shopping center, Bethel and other areas -- not intended that they walk. .Crichton commented that traffic on County Road E would not be a problem; as he sees it, if the density fits the R-I requirement -- traffic would then take care of itself. Crichton reported that the Parks Committee has determined the size and shape of the park they desire for this area, and wi II be presenting their recommendations to the Counci I at the meeting on February 24th. The non-taxable status of the proposed center was discussed briefly, and Peterson explained that the tax situation depends on the financing vehicle; they are looking for FHA, and if this is obtained, there is an adJ usted tax formu I II wh i ch has been dev I sed (ttax). Peterson sa I d If we have private funding, TCCH wi II negotiate a suitable tax alterna- tive wl~h the Village. -3- Minutes of Special Counpl I Meeting ~age four February i8, 1915 The apparent negative impact from the neighborhood, because of noise, drainage problems, traffic, headlight glare, etc. was discussed, as was the concern that the project could fail. In this discussion, it was gener~lly felt that the noise, drainage, traffic etc. could be resolved, and Peterson said that TCCH has the same concern as the resi- dents that the project not fal I - TCCH money is Involved. He said there Is a "crying need" for housing for the elderly, and after researching the need, find that the need Is in this area - Arden Hills. Wingert asked where simi lar housing for the elderly is located. Peterson said that Central Towers (St. Paul) and Ebenezer Towers (Mpls.) are similar centers, only on the tower aspect. . Wingert expressed concern re transportation and recreation for the residents in this comparatively remote location, as compared to those In t~e urban loc~tions described. Saterbak descri bed othe r centers I n Davenport, t owa, Mil waukee, Wi scon- sln. Des Moines,lowa, which are suburban in nature, but slmliar to this proposed project these are different only in that they are profit motivated. Woodburn commented that, in his opinion, a project of this type can't fal I - there is a need, and a community responsiqi I ity to take care of the aged. He said he will, however, "get sticky" lIbout density - no advantage in crowding these residents, any more than anyone else. After discussion, Peterson and Saterbak indicated they would I ike to amend their plans in accordance with the changes suggested; Indicating they could have the amended plans prepared for Council consideration within 60 days. Wingert moved, seconded by Feyereisen, that Council defer action on Case No, 14-38 until Apri I 7, 1975, pending receipt of further infor- mation from applicant. Motion carried unanimously. Case No. 75-4. E. Lawrence Anderson - Lot Split Planne," Fredlund described the lot, at the northwest corner of Valen- tine Par~as a comparatively difficult lot on which to build, but the owner has indicated he is aware of the problems involved, and feels he can build homes without requiring variances. . Fredlund reported that the Planning Commission recommends Council approvai of the lot split, as ~equested. Wingert moved, seconded by Feyere1sen, that Council approve the lot split, as requested in Case No. 15-4, in accordance with Ordinance 98 Section 13E, as amended. Motion carried unanimously. (It was noted that no park dedication for this lot split is required, and It is the understanding of the Council that no variances will be requested on these lots by the developer). Case No. 15-5, Mounds View School District - Building Permit for Acces- sory Building at Val~tine Hills E~ntary School. Planner Fredlund reporfed that the Planning CommiSSion recommends that the Council approve the Issuance of a Building Permit for the storage building at Valentine Hills Elementary School in accordance, with plans submitted; exterior to match brick of present structure. He said the Pianning Commission considers this addition as a minor change, which would not substantially affect the Special Use Permit; therefore, not requiring a publ Ie hearing. Fredlund reported that the Planning Commission expressed concern re Inadequate parking at the school, eSpecially along the west side of the bu i I d I rig. Wingert moved, seconded by Woodburn, that the Counci I approve the Is- suance of the Bui Iding Permit (Case No. 15-5) for the STorage building at Valentine Hills Elementary School, with the understanding that the exterior wi II be of matching brick (alternate A-I), Motion carried unanl- mOlJsly. -4- , , Minutes of Special Counci I Meeting Page f I v€, February 18, '1975 McNlesh was requested to inform Mounds View School District of the Council's action and to relay Counci I 's concern re parking; recom- mending that access and parking be reviewed. Change in Administrative Procedure Wingert reported that the Planning Commission has recommended that the Planning Commission review final construction drawings, prior to issu- ance of Building Permits. Fredlund indicated that the proposed zoning ordinance does include this procedure, and it is done in a number of communities - only for commer- cial, industrial and multiple dwellings, to assure Council of compli- ,ance with special conditions. . Squires suggested that perhaps a sub-committee could handle the review more quickiy; saving construction time for the applicant. After discussion, the Councii generally felt that the review should be made by the Buiiding Inspector - comparing final drawings with plans approved by the Council. If a specific problem, or change, is noted, this could be refel"red to the Planning Commission for review, or a copy of t~e plan could be routed through the Planning Commission and Council. It was felt that the magni~ude of the project .ould determine the pro- cedure. Building Inspector could advise when plans are received on large developments, and request help in the review If he desires. REPORT OF VILLAGE TREASURER RICHARD O'KELLY Investments O'Kelly reported an investment of $190,000 for 6 months at 6.50% on February 14, 1975. Feyereisen moved, seconded by Crichton, that CounCil ratify the invest- ment as reported. Motion carried unanimously. REPORT OF CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER LARRY SQU1RES Squires referred Council to his memo of 2/14/75 and the Council dis- ,cussed the proposed new perm I t fee schedu I e and enforcement procedure of the various Village codes with Mr. Squires. How code violations are found, was discussed (i.e. signs which are in violation or not licensed, construction, for which permits have not been issued, exterior storage violations etc.) It was generally felt that the Police Department and Building Inspector be cognizant of Vi I lage Ordinances, reporting apparent violations for ordinance en- forcement. In discussion of the Blue Fox Inn, Squires noted that the owner has been notified that the basement must be sprinklered before p~bl ic use can be permitted. It was noted by Wingert that the Special Use Permit was based on plans presented for the main floor only; if basement is to be uti lized for publIc use, an Amended Special Use Permit would be needed. . In discussion of the proposed fee schedule, Council commented that the fee charged should cover al I expenses, but not be profit making. McNiesh was requested to submit an estimate of costs for Counci i con- sideration at the next Councl I meeting. REPORT OF CLERK ADMINISTRATOR CHARLOTTE MCNIESH 1974 Financial Statement Crichton moved, seconded by Wingert, that Council approve the transfers and authorize publication of the City of Arden Hi lis Financial State- ment for Year Ended December 31, 1974. Motion carried unanimously. Conference for Clerks and Finance Officers Feyereisen moved, seconded by Crichton, that Counci I approve the atten- dance of Charlotte McNiesh at the Conference for Clerks and Finance Officers on March 12-14, 1975, at a cost of $45,00, Motion carried unanimously. -5- . , }.linutes of Special COl!ilCi I ~ieetin9 Page six February 18, 1975 Report on Offer for Purchase of Park Site McNlesh referred Council to a letter from Mr. Darrell Johnson, accep- ting the Village's offer to purchase the Cummings property. After discussion, Crichton mo~ed, seconded by Wingert, that Council instruct the City Attorney to prepare necessary instruments to purchase the Cummings property. Motion carried unanimously. McNiesh was requested to obtain the tax figures and to notify Mrs. Cummings of Councl I action. . Finance Committee Meeting in discussion of retail sales licenses, McNlesh reported that the Finance Committee's interpretation is that a retai I sales license should pertain to businesses principally sell ing at retail - not to businesses where retail sales are Incidental, such as Gould and Co., Weber Cabinet etc. OTHER BUSINESS Purchase of Camera Counci I was referred to a memo from John Buckley (2/18/75) requesting authorization to purchase a Canon camera with tele-photo lens, costing approximately $325. Crichton moved, seconded by Woodburn, that Council approve the camera purchase at a cost of $325. In discussion, the following concerns were expressed: I. Cost Is over budgeted amount for camera. 2. Quest i oned if any compa r i son had been marie w n';] oj'i...l- came ras. 3. Questioned how camera ,could be shared with Police Department. 4. Questioned whether a $16.00~ camera would be adequate. Motlon did not carry (al I voting in opposition). Representative Robert Orth Letter Crepeau referred Council to a letter from Representative Robert Orth, District I, re proposed increase in real estate valuations. After discussion, McNiesh was requested to obtain additional Informa- tion for Council consideration. Highway 51 Road Easement McNiesh was requested to write to the Minnesota Highway Department, re- questing that Arden Hil Is be given the first opportunity to purchase the Highway 51 road easement (diagonal easement between Hamline Ave., north of County Road F, to Lexington Avenue and Highway 96) when It Is sol d. C. G. Rein Proposed Park in Johanna West Counci I considered the 12.36 acre park proposal submitted by C. G. Rein, and noted the following: . I. Possible land locking of two lots north of the park. 2. 12.360 acres may be excessive in size for park need In this area; suggesting an alternative might be to delineate a south- west boundary perpendicular to the power easement, but in- cluding an access from Prior Avenue extending north of Jerrold Avenue. No Council action was taken, pending information re lot ownership of the two lots to the north and recommendations from the Parks and Recre- ~ ation Committee. AdjoUrnment Wingert moved, seconded by Crichton, that the meeting adjourn at 12:43 a.m. Motion carrie~ unanimously. ~~/A-m~~,_ Charlotte McNiesh Clerk Administrator Next Regular Council Meeting wi I I be Monday, February 24, 1975 at 7:30 p.m. -6-