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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC 01-27-1997 . MINUTES CITY OF ARDEN HILLS, MINNESOTA REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING JANUARY 27, 1997 7:30 P.M. - NEW BRIGHTON COUNCIL CHAMBERS CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, Mayor Dennis Probst called to order the regular City Council meeting at 7:30 p.m. Present: Mayor Dennis Probst, Councilmembers Beverly Aplikowski, Dale Hicks, Susan Keirn, and Paul Malone. Absent: None. Also present were: City Administrator, Brian Fritsinger; City Accountant, Terry Post; Community Development Director, Kevin Ringwald; Public Works Superintendent, Dwayne Stafford; Parks & Recreation Director, Cindy Walsh; Administrative Secretary, Sheila Stowell; and Recording Secretary, Cindy Schneider. . ADOPT AGENDA MOTION: Aplikowski moved and Keirn seconded a motion to adopt the agenda for the January 27, 1997, Regular City Council meeting as presented. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. January 13, 1997, Regular Council Meeting Brian Fritsinger, City Administrator, requested the following correction on Page 10, fourth paragraph: "Ramsey County Board Meeting" should read "Northwest Youth and Family Services" Councilmember Malone requested the following correction on Page 6, last sentence of third paragraph: ".. .regarding the possibility of MASC accruinrr costs to this oroiect. . Mayor Probst requested the following revisions on Page 2, third paragraph under Public Comments: "Mayor Probst resoonded that he appreciated the research. He indicated his question was based on the fact that this was not a rezoning case. and clearly there is an issue with the consistency of the maps between the land use. comprehensive plan. and the zoning ordinance. but the ooint be was respondinrr to was that there was not a rezoning involved in the exercise. it was a POD." . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 27.1997 2 Page 7, eleventh paragraph: "Mavor Probst inquired how the chan2es from five $500 000 shares. with Mi!!htv Ducks beinl;( one ofthe five. would affect the overall proiect bondin!! requirements. Mr. Fritsinger stated he would clarify this for the Council at the January 27. 1997 meeting." B. January 21,1997, Council Worksession Meeting No changes. MOTION: Malone moved and Keirn seconded a motion to approve the January 13, 1997, Regular Council Meeting minutes as corrected and the January 21, 1997, Council Worksession Meeting minutes as presented. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). CONSENT CALENDAR A. B. C. Claims and Payroll I-35W Corridor Coalition, Revised Joint Powers Agreement Receive 1996 Treasurer's Report MOTION: Hicks moved and Malone seconded a motion to approve the Consent Calendar as submitted and authorize execution of all necessary documents contained therein. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). PUBLIC COMMENTS Mayor Probst invited the audience to address the Council on any issue not already on the agenda. Tom Steele, 3570 Ridgeview Road, Arden Hills, expressed his approval of the recent Town Hall Meeting, but felt there should have been a discussion included of what the citizens of Arden Hills expect from their government. He also expressed concern with the Quad Ice Arena Agreement, stating he felt that too few people would benefit compared to the cost involved, and that the City government should concern itself more with basic services such as police and fire protection, and utility issues. Roger Aiken, 4360 N. Hamline Avenue, Arden Hills, also brought up the subject of the Quad Ice Arena Agreement, stating he also felt the interests of a select few were being served by this project. He stated the City was setting a precedent in being involved in this project. He expressed concern that a public entity was involved to such a large extent in a private business, and also stated he feels MASC controls too much of the arena. He inquired regarding the financing of this project, and Mayor Probst explained the financing terms. Mr. Aiken also expressed concern regarding the City Code that defines a fast food restaurant. He stated he was present at the January 8,1997, Planning Commission meeting, where this subject was discussed at length. He feels the current definition of fast food is overly lengthy, confusing, and vague in a number of areas. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 27.1997 3 . There were no further public comments. . . UNFINISHED AND NEW BUSINESS A. Adopt Resolution #97-06, Approving and Plans and Specifications and Ordering the Advertising for Bids, In the Matter of Street Improvements of 1997 Greg Stonehouse, MSA Consulting Engineers, gave a report updating the status of the street improvements of 1997. He stated there are two alternatives for the turn-around at the end of Hamline Avenue, and that Option #2 will be sent out for bid. Either option would require a 30- foot right-of-way from the resident at the end of the street. He also reported that problems could be encountered with any utilities located on the west side of the street. He noted Staff intends to investigate acquiring easements. Mr. Stonehouse advised Staff recommends approval of the plans and specifications and authorizing the advertisement for bids. Mayor Probst inquired if the preference would be for a cul-de-sac at the turn-around. Mr. Stonehouse agreed this was the preference. Mayor Probst inquired if there has been contact with the residents in regard to the easement issue. Mr. Stonehouse indicated there has not been. Mayor Probst inquired regarding the problem with the sewer odor, and where the sewer improvement was planned. Mr. Stonehouse explained the last sanitary sewer manhole would be replaced and realigned so it flows better which should eliminate the odor problem. Mayor Probst inquired regarding the nature of discussions with residents. Mr. Stonehouse indicated the greatest concern was drainage, followed by conservation of trees. Mayor Probst inquired if Hamline Avenue is the only alternate. Mr. Stonehouse replied both Hamline and Snelling Avenues were being considered as alternates. Councilmember Hicks inquired regarding the proposed width of Snelling A venue. Mr. Stonehouse reported it to be approximately 26 feet. Councilmember Hicks inquired if the west side could be moved instead of the east side, in order to conserve the many trees located in that area. Mr. Stonehouse reported most of the widening would be on the west side, and the affected trees could be transplanted. Councilmember Hicks inquired if the manhole reconstruction on Hamline Avenue could be completed independent ofthis plan, He feels this should be done regardless if the rest of the project is completed. Mr. Stonehouse replied that the manhole reconstruction could be done independent ofthe street improvement project. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 27.1997 4 . Councilmember Malone inquired regarding replacement of driveway curbing on Colleen Circle. Mr. Stonehouse replied this issue should be taken up between the residents of the street and the contractor. Councilmember Aplikowski inquired if a decision has been made regarding the different type of sealcoating. Mr. Stonehouse replied the portion of Snelling Avenue south of Highway 96 has been chosen. He further stated this is a heavier traveled road, so the project will be more expensive, but would provide a good test of the durability of the different material. MOTION: Hicks moved and Keirn seconded a motion to adopt Resolution #97-06, Approving the Plans and Specifications and Authorizing the Advertisement for Bids in the Matter of Street Improvements of 1997. Kim Sawtell, 3637 RamIine Avenue, came forward to address the Council. She stated her concern with traffic at the south end of Hamline A venue at County Road E. She explained there have been many more accidents and near-accidents at this intersection since the reconstruction of the turn lanes. The different agencies involved in this intersection (Arden Hills, Ramsey County, State of Minnesota) do not appear to be working together to find a solution for this problem. She asserted it is only a matter of time before someone is seriously injured or killed at this intersection. . Councilmember Aplikowski inquired what could be done in this intersection to improve it. Ms. Sawtell replied she would like to see the lane striping back to how it was before. The new striping is causing traffic congestion in this area that did not exist before. She does not feel there is enough room allowed for a car to go around someone making a left turn on to North Snelling from County Road E. Mr. Stonehouse stated he has spoken to Ramsey County regarding this intersection, and would like to commission a study regarding the accident rate before and after the changes, He stated at this time, Ramsey County is not interested in making any changes to the project. Ms. Sawtell allowed that the changes that were made are better for the residents east of Highway 96, but worse for her area. Councilmember Malone commented if the road were to be moved to the west and a standard intersection installed, it would require the City to acquire two houses, and stated he felt the cost would be prohibitive. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). B. Planning Case #96-27, Arden Rills Texaco/Quizno's, 1306 West County Road E, SUP AmendmentlVariance . Kevin Ringwald, Community Development Director, gave a brief overview of Planning Commission #96-27. He stated the petitioner is requesting approval of an amendment to a . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 27. 1997 5 Special Use Permit (SUP) and variance to locate a fast food operation (Quizno's Oven Baked Sandwich Shop) within the Arden Hills Texaco at 1306 County Road E (Exhibit A). The SUP amendment would allow the applicant to construct a new doorway on the west side of the existing building with a 4' x 11' sign above that doorway, The applicant is also requesting providing patio seating on the west side of the building. This variance would allow the establishment ofa principal (multi-operation) fast food use (Quizno's) within 1,320 feet of another fast food use (McDonald's) at 1313 County Road E. Mr. Ringwald noted the Planning Commission recommends denial of the SUP amendment and variance, and recommends that the landscaping previously required in the last SUP (PC #94-25) be installed no later than May 31, 1997. He further stated the Planning Commission recommends allowing Quizno' s to operate as an accessory use to the convenience store. The Quizno's would be limited to the space (Exhibit A, page 5 of 8), signage (Exhibit A, page 7 of 8) and store access (Exhibit A, page 5 of 8) which currently exists. Mr. Ringwald further noted the applicant has agreed to the recommendations of the Planning Commission in regards to PC #94-25, and will plant the additional landscape material this spring. Councilmember Aplikowski inquired regarding the size of the suggested addition. Mr. Ringwald stated it was mostly modifications, those being changes in the signage, the window and door being added to the west side ofthe building, and a small patio adjacent to the west side of the building. Councilmember Aplikowski asked for clarification that the Planning Commission had denied this request. Mr. Ringwald stated that was the case. Mr. Ringwald further stated that, according to the Planning Commission's recommendations, the applicant could use only the existing signage, could make use of only the pre-existing deli area, and could not add a patio on the west side of the building. Mr. Ringwald stated it was the desire of the staff to clarifY for the applicants what could and could not be allowed in this matter. Councilmember Malone inquired ifthe repair facility was considered another separate business. Mr. Ringwald stated that this was the case, and easements were in place to that effect. Councilmember Malone indicated he does not remember the deli being approved in the plans as they were submitted in 1994. Mr. Ringwald stated he was not with the City at that time, but that the Planning files and the minutes do not reflect that a deli was discussed or approved. Councilmember Aplikowski inquired that if a door were to be placed on the west side of the building, what would happen to the existing parking spaces, Mr. Ringwald stated the parking would stay the same as it is now. He further stated the Planning Commission felt that the addition of a door and a patio would make the deli closer to a principal use. Councilmember Aplikowski expressed concern that the plans showed the window being placed very close to the oven. She further inquired regarding the necessity of a door on the west side of the building. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 27 1997 6 Doug Kruse, applicant, and Quizno's frauchise holder, came forward at this time. He gave a brief background of Quizno 's, and a description of their product. He gave his reasons for wanting to place a Quizno's in the Arden Hills Texaco, being that a working deli was already in place in this business, and his desire to enter the Arden Hills area. He stated the patio was not a major addition, but rather a small area that would hold two tables and four chairs, He stated the door and window were mainly for security reasons, and for customer convenience. He stated that he and his co-applicant, Ted Brausen, owner of Arden Hills Texaco, were unsure of what was ultimately decided at the Planning Commission, and inquired if a SUP amendment was needed in this case, or if they needed to merely apply for a building permit. He further stated in response to Councilmember Aplikowski's question regarding the windows, that the vent hood could be relocated farther from the window if the need arose. Ted Brausen, 1306 West County Road E, owner of the Arden Hills Texaco, came forward to explain that the vent hood was rarely used in the existing deli, and does not foresee a problem with it. He stated that although the inside of the building was not discussed at length in 1994, there was a request for signage stating "Deli" that was made and approved at that time. Councilmember Hicks requested clarification of the signage in Exhibit A, page 3 of 8, inquiring if this was to be a larger size than what exists now. Mr. Brausen indicated the size of the sign would remain the same. Councilmember Hicks requested if the signage on the diamond, also Exhibit A, page 3 of 8, would state "Deli". Mr. Brausen indicated that was correct. Councilmember Hicks inquired if the signage on the west elevation (Exhibit A, page 4 of 8) would remain the same. Again, Mr. Brausen indicated that it would. Councilmember Hicks inquired regarding Exhibit A, page 7 of 8, if the signage would be a picture of a sub, or merely the name of the deli. Mr. Brausen indicated it would be the name ofthe deli. Councilmember Hicks requested Mr. Kruse's opinion regarding additional customer base with the addition of this business. Mr. Kruse stated he expects some additional customers for the deli only, but he anticipates most customers will be from the service station/convenience store. Mr. Kruse stated the west elevation signage was negotiable, that he only wants signage somewhere on the west side of the building with the Quizno's logo. He stated it could also go in the proposed window, if it were to be approved. Councilmember Keirn asked what the square footage ofthe deli measured in relation to the entire store. Mr. Ringwald stated the deli was approximately 170 square feet. Mr. Brausen stated he believes the square footage of the store to be approximately 2,060 square feet. Councilmember Keirn indicated perhaps the square footage would have a bearing on ancillary or primary use. Mr. Ringwald stated this was one factor involved. Mayor Probst indicated he has some concerns with the parking at this location and feels there is a lot of activity at this site already. He stated he agrees with the Planning Commission recommendations, but is concerned with the additional use on this site. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 27. 1997 7 Councilmember Aplikowski inquired if the revenue generated by the deli as compared to the service station aspect would have any bearing on ancillary versus primary use. Mr. Brausen indicated it was not possible for the deli to produce more revenue than gasoline sales. Mr. Brausen also stated in answer to Mayor Probst's concern regarding parking, that he has fifteen parking spaces behind the building that he currently does not use, and he does not feel parking is a problem in his establishment. Councilmember Aplikowski inquired if the door was a necessity. She stated the patio would have a very limited use throughout the year. She was inclined to allow a window, but no door, and reduce the size of the sign on the west elevation. Councilmember Malone stated he does not believe revenue generated from one part of the business or another is the issue at hand. He stated the issue for him was the additional traffic and crowding. He believes the addition of a door and a patio would tend to make the deli more of a principal use. Councilmember Malone inquired ifthe changed signage still has to comply with City codes. Mr. Ringwald stated that was the case. Mr. Ringwald clarified the City sign ordinance states the signage may not cover over 10% of the facade of both sides. He referred to Exhibit 3, in which, although two signs are shown, does not cover more than 10% ofthe total area. Councilmember Malone inquired if the window would indeed be a building permit issue. Mr. Ringwald stated that adding a window would be subject to acquiring a building permit. Councilmember Malone commented the accessory use could be accomplished if the door and patio were not added. Mr. Brausen stated the handicapped parking spot on the west side would not need to be moved to add the proposed patio. He further stated the Planning Commission was too vague so he and Mr. Kruse are requesting clarification at this meeting. Mayor Probst stated he understands the Planning Commission recommendation is for the deli to be permitted, but they were opposed to the patio. He stated as long as the door and patio are excluded, he has no other concerns with this request. His concerns are mainly with the addition of the door and the removal of the handicapped parking spot. He also stated with the addition of the door and patio, the deli starts to become a primary use. Mr. Kruse stated as he understood it, the Planning Commission is permitting the deli to be placed in this business. He stated he understands the window is a building permit issue, and the signage is a code issue. He stated that although the patio would be a nice addition, it is not necessary and he would still like to place the deli in the Arden Hills Texaco. Councilmember Malone stated that although the City Council is trying to be flexible towards this business, he feels the food use is already a "stretch", and this is as far as he is willing to compromise on this matter. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 27. 1997 8 Mr. Kruse and Mr. Brausen requested a final clarification of what additions and changes would and would not be allowed. Councilmember Hicks asked how much of the proposed construction would need to be approved under a SUP and what would come under the authority of a building permit. Mr. Ringwald clarified that a window alone would be subject to a building permit, but the window and door combination would require a site plan or SUP amendment. Councilmember Hicks asked for clarification regarding signage as written in the ordinance. Mr. Ringwald clarified that the signage would need to fall within the approved limits under the ordinance. MOTION: Hicks moved and Keim seconded a motion to deny Planning Case #96-27, Arden Hills Texaco/Quizno's, 1306 West County Road E, SUP Amendment/Variance with the understanding that the operation of Quizno's would exist as an accessory use to the site within the 170 square foot "deli" area, signage on the site will be as per the plan identifYing two Quizno's signs on the north and west side; and the installation of a window on the west side would be permissible without amending the SUP conditioned on receipt of a building permit. Councilmember Aplikowski asked for clarification regarding signage and installation of a window on the west side. Mr. Ringwald stated these would both be Code/building permit issues. Councilmember Hicks reiterated the primary use issue with regard to the requested door and patio. Councilmember Aplikowski stated she felt this was a good compromise, but she would still be inclined to allow tables and chairs on the west side of the building in the summer months only. Mr. Brausen stated he now puts two tables in the front of the building in the summer months, and has been doing so for some time. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). C, Planning Case #97-01, Gurtek, 4315 Colleen Court, Variance Mr. Ringwald reported the applicant is requesting approval of a front yard variance to facilitate the construction of a single family home on a vacant lot in the McClung Fourth Addition (Exhibit C). The Planning Commission reviewed this recommendation and recommends that Planning Case #97-0 I be approved, allowing a 10- foot front yard setback variance for the garage without allowing for any direct encroachment into the drainage/utility easement. Mr. Ringwald stated this lot has a unique layout, and referred to an overhead of the lot and proposed house. He stated this lot has a small buildable area due to the utility easement at the rear of the lot. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 27.1997 9 Councilmember Malone stated that, although the applicant's request seems to be a good compromise, he remembers the original land owner being told there would be no variances allowed in his site plan. Councilmember Aplikowski expressed her concern with an after-the-fact variance request, and also stated she does not find garages placed out in front of houses aesthetically pleasing. Councilmember Hicks inquired if the drainage easement constitutes a hardship. Mr. Ringwald stated that it would, as it puts limits on the type of house that can be constructed on this lot. Councilmember Hicks asked if there were presently houses on the other lots in this addition, and if they were of a comparable size to the proposed house. John Gurtek, applicant, stated the proposed house is of a comparable size to other houses in the development. He reported that the residents on the other eight lots have been surveyed, and they all approve of the proposed variance. Councilmember Hicks inquired if the site plans of the other eight houses required a variance. Mr. Gurtek stated they did not. Councilmember Hicks inquired if another house of equal value but of a different layout could be built on this lot A discussion ensued regarding the different floor plans of houses in this development, their approximate value, and the poor sales potential of a house with a lower square footage than of those surrounding it. Mayor Probst stated although the record reflects the developer was informed there would be no variances of site plans in this location, the builder at the present time is not the same as when this project was initiated. He stated he has no concerns with the recommendations of the Planning Commission. Councilmember Hicks stated although he shares the concern of the timing of this variance request, he allowed that a la-foot variance was not a major concern, that the drainage easement does present a problem, and that the house should be of comparable value to those surrounding it. MOTION: Hicks moved and Keirn seconded a motion to approve Planning Case #97-01, Gurtek, 4315 Colleen Court, Variance, allowing a lO-foot front yard setback variance of the garage portion only of the house plan, and based on the conditions outlined by the Planning Commission and shown on Plan Dla, and based on the rationale of the hardship of the drainage easement placement. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). Councilmember Malone inquired regarding the addition of a deck, whether posts would be allowed or if it would need to be cantilevered. Mr. Ringwald stated the decks would need to be cantilevered out over the drainage easement, no posts would be allowed. Mr. Ringwald further stated that no structures of any kind are allowed in the drainage easement, such as playsets or storage buildings. . e. . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 27. 1997 10 D. Quad Ice Arena Master and Supplemental Agreements Mr. Fritsinger reported the Minnesota Amateur Sports Commission has asked the City Council to consider the approval of the Master and Supplemental Agreements for the Quad Ice Arena project. Mr. Fritsinger reviewed that the City Council first reviewed these Agreements on January 13, 1997, and raised several concerns at that time. He gave clarification on the following issues: Total cost of the proiect The projected cost of the project is between $9.5 and $9.9 million. The source offunds will be $2.5 million in down payments and $7.4 million in bond proceeds. MASC and Ehlers and Associates, Inc., have both indicated is customary to put an "up to" amount that is established in the contract agreements that is larger than the $47.4 million to accommodate changes in the cost of financing or insurance. Ifproiect floes into default. can the City buyout its Dortion of the debt Under the Master Agreement, the City's share ofthe project is a salable asset. At any time, a city may sell its share to another party if there is a willing buyer. Ehlers and Associates have indicated that in the case of a default, it would be expected that the parties would meet to discuss how to payoff any outstanding bonds. In the case of a default, Anoka County would take ownership of the property, not MASC or the State of Minnesota. Under that scenario, one ofthe options available to the participants would be the buy-out of a city's portion of the debt and potential ownership of that portion. Mayor Probst requested clarification of the City's debt responsibility. He stated he understood it to be 15% of 25% of the debt. Mr. Fritsinger stated that was correct. Current status of the fourth rink MASC is the current owner of the fourth rink. MASC is currently working with the Centennial Hockey Association to reach an agreement, but nothing has been finalized at this time. MASC's method of crediting hours to each arena Paul Erickson, MASC, presented a handout regarding crediting of hours. Mayor Probst expressed concerns that Arden Hills approve of the way hours are credited. Mayor Probst inquired if the other cities in SAMN were in agreement regarding crediting of hours. Mr. Fritsinger stated except for some insubstantial changes, they were in agreement. He stated Jerry Filla, City Attorney, has been in contact with the Attorney General's Office in regards to the agreement. . . . ARDEN HIT ,LS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 27. 1997 11 Councilmember Keim inquired how many residents of Arden Hills were expected to participate in the ice arena, Mr. Fritsinger stated approximately 144. Councilmember Keim inquired if the MASC would be able to lease the majority of the prime winter hours on the fourth sheet, which they currently own, Paul Erickson, MASC, responded by providing the Council with a brief recap of the MASC Board and their objectives, He stated the MASC's ultimate goal is to sell the fourth sheet of ice to a city. He reviewed the dates and times of "high prime time" and advised they are completely sold out in all the arenas in the Twin Cities area. The MASC feels there is no risk of these prime hours remaining unsold, that the risk lies more in selling the spring and fall hours, and they anticipate success in marketing those hours also. He stated the MASC's intention to stay within the Agreement, and stated they will aggressively market to hockey camps and leagues. Councilmember Hicks inquired if during the spring and fall all parties share hours equally. He expressed concern that, although no prime hours remain unsold at this time, that could change at some point in the future, especially if more rinks are constructed in the area. Mr. Erickson replied there has been substantial growth in both boys' and girls' hockey which is projected to grow by more every year. He stated according to the MASC's research, the state is short 50-60 rinks at this time. Mr. Erickson further stated the Board feels it is essentially taking the risk for all the rinks, and they feel confident enough in this venture to ask other communities for their financial commitment. He stated most rinks are built one sheet at a time, which the Board feels is inefficient. He stated the large arenas with multiple sheets attract more tournaments and events. Councilmember Keim inquired how many children are involved in the t-ball program through Parks and Recreation each year. Ms. Cindy Walsh replied that approximately 150 children participate each year. Councilmember Keim suggested that the Quad Ice Arena is how children in the City that wish to play hockey will be serviced. Councilmember Malone stated that potential costs involved in this Agreement are much higher than other recreation programs the City offers. He further stated his concerns regarding the liability of the City. He feels there is a lack of security in this Agreement, and has concerns with the large amount of debt being accrued. Councilmember Malone requested a clarification of the City's liability in this issue. Mr. Fritsinger stated the City's total liability to be approximately $1.4 million. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 27. 1997 12 Councilmember Malone again stated his concern with this liability, and inquired why more private industry has not been involved in this venture, Councilmember Hicks commented that, theoretically, this Agreement will cost nothing if everything goes according to plan. He stated he feels some sense of obligation, as the other communities involved are participating readily. Mayor Probst offered his continued support of this project. He stated that while he recognizes there is significant risk involved, he feels hockey will continue to be played in Minnesota for quite some time. He stated he feels the prime time hours are low risk, and the cost exposure is in line with other community programs. He also approves of the replenishing escrow, and feels it is insurance against default. He stated he feels that the exposure is manageable, but the City will need to stay very involved in this project to assure its success. Councilmember Aplikowski stated her support of this project which she feels is viable. She inquired regarding talk of the southern Metro area building a multiple sheet arena. Mr. Erickson stated that while this was a project in the works at one time, the parties have disbanded and, at this time, there are no plans for this area to construct a multiple sheet arena. MOTION: Keirn moved and Aplikowski seconded a motion to approve the Quad Ice Arena Master and Supplemental Agreements subject to the six stipulations outlined in Mr. Fritsinger's memorandum. The motion carried (4-1 Malone). E. Resolution #97-07, Supporting an Application to the Department of Natural Resources Cooperative Trail Grant. Cindy Walsh, Parks and Recreation Director, stated she has been exploring trail grant opportunities for the Arden Hills area. She stated County Road F between Hamline Avenue and Lexington A venue seems to be the best possibility for funding at this time. She gave the total estimate of this project to be approximately $65,000, half of which is subject to a matching grant, which would leave approximately $32,500 as the City's portion. Mayor Probst inquired what the length of this trail would be. Ms. Walsh stated approximately one-half of a mile, ending at the cpr Guidant driveway. Mayor Probst commented that Lexington Avenue is really our only North/South connection. Ms. Walsh stated at this time this was the best connection, but staff is also looking into a trail along Old Highway 10 in the future. MOTION: Hicks moved and Aplikowski seconded a motion to adopt a Resolution #97-07 Supporting an Application to the Department of Natural Resources Trail Grant. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 27.1997 13 F. Resolution #97-08, Supporting the Transfer of Certain Excess MNDOT Right-of- Way to Welsh Companies to Facilitate the Building which was approved in Planning Case #96-12 Mr. Ringwald stated Staff is requesting that the City Council endorse Resolution #97-08, which supports the transfer of certain excess right of way currently under the jurisdiction of the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MNDOT) to Welsh Companies to facilitate the building which was approved in Planning Case #96-12 (Exhibit A). MOTION: Malone moved and Keirn seconded a motion to adopt a Resolution #97-08, Supporting the Transfer of Certain Excess MNDOT Right-of-Way to Welsh Companies to Facilitate the Building which was approved in Planning Case #96- 12. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). ADMINISTRATOR COMMENTS Mr. Fritsinger reported on the progress being made regarding the demolition of the property at 1900 Edgewater. The property owner has a 10-day grace period to obtain a demolition permit and proceed with the demolition, or this matter will be brought to court. Mayor Probst inquired what was to be done with this site after the demolition has been completed. Mr. Fritsinger stated the owners wish to demolish the home but leave the foundation in place at this time, for possible rebuilding. He stated City inspectors will be required to inspect the foundation and basement walls. Mr. Fritsinger stated action will have to be taken at that time to safeguard the area from being entered. Councilmember Hicks inquired if the floors could remain after the demolition was complete, thereby barring entry to the basement level. Mr. Ringwald stated the entire structure must be removed to facilitate a proper inspection. Councilmember Keirn inquired how long the property owners have to commence demolition once the permit is pulled. Mr. Fritsinger stated this must be done in the next ten days. COUNCIL COMMENTS Councilmember Hicks thanked Staff for the excellent work done in preparing and carrying out the recent Town Hall Meeting. Mayor Probst also expressed his appreciation to Staff, adding he was surprised by the turnout, estimated at approximately 100 people. Councilmember Malone thanked Staff for their work on the Town Hall Meeting also. ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 27.1997 14 . Councilmember Aplikowski reported on the recent Ramsey County Legislative Meeting, and stated she has an extra copy of the agenda. She gave a brief overview of what was to be discussed at this year's Legislative session. Councilmember Aplikowski inquired ofMr. Fritsinger if Staff could be asked to research the Code regarding fast food restaurants. She would like the City Council to be able to discuss this issue further by early to mid-summer. Mr. Fritsinger stated he would ask Staff to begin this process. Councilmember Aplikowski commented the next Newsletter is set to be sent out soon, and brought up the possibility of including a "Meet the Staff' article. Mayor Probst commented that mailing costs were going up for this Newsletter, and inquired if another way could be found to cover these costs. It was brought up by various Councilmembers that their constituents are not receiving the City Newsletters, Mr. Fritsinger reported that Staff has been updating the address databases with the latest information from the U.S. Postal Service. Councilmember Keirn welcomed the new building inspector, who was not present at the meeting. . Councilmember Keirn inquired regarding the retreat for Staff and City Council. Mr. Fritsinger stated a memo will be sent within the next week with a list of options for time and place. Councilmember Aplikowski stated she will not be present at the next regular City Council meeting. Mayor Probst reported on the NYFS awards invitation for Thursday. He indicated Bob Mullin, an Arden Hills resident, is a recipient of this award. Councilmember Aplikowski inquired if the City Council could send a formal congratulation to Mr. Mullin for this award. Mayor Probst expressed his desire to see other Arden Hills residents recognized for their achievements in a similar manner. Mayor Probst recalled a recent discussion he had with an area Realtor regarding the lack of community events in Arden Hills. A discussion ensued recalling past and present events that the City has sponsored. Mayor Probst briefly discussed the Sister Cities program, stating that although this is a worthy program to investigate, the time investment it would involve is prohibitive at this time. . Mayor Probst stated he would like staff to contact the citizens who attended the Town Hall Meeting and expressed an interest in serving on committees. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - JANUARY 27.1997 15 Mayor Probst stated he will not be available for the City Council Worksession scheduled for February 18, 1997. ADJOURN MOTION: Hicks moved and Malone seconded a motion to adjourn the meeting at 10:10 p.m. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). Briilid- City Administrator Dennis Probst Mayor NOTICE OF MEETINGS The next regular City Council meeting will be held February 10, 1997, at 7:30 p.m. at the New Brighton Council Chambers.