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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC 02-09-1998 . ~ . MINUTES CITY OF ARDEN HILLS, MINNESOTA CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 9, 1998 7:30 P.M. - NEW BRIGHTON 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 7:30 p.m. Present: Mayor Dennis Probst, Councilmembers Beverly Aplikowski, Dale Hicks, Susan Keirn, and Paul Malone. Also present were City Administrator, Brian Fritsinger; City Accountant, Terry Post; Community Development Director, Kevin Ringwald; Public Works Superintendent, Dwayne Stafford; Consulting Engineer, Greg Brown; and Recording Secretary, Carla Wirth. ADOPT AGENDA MOTION: Councilmember Keim moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to adopt the agenda for the February 9, 1998, Regular City Council meeting as presented. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. January 26,1998, Regular Council Meeting Mayor Probst requested the following correction to the January 26, 1998, Regular Council Meeting minutes: Page 3, third paragraph: "In terms of actual acceptance of the sale of bonds, Mayor Probst asked if there is anv other action prior to it being finalized." MOTION: Councilmember Malone moved and Councilmember Keim seconded a motion to approve the January 26, 1998, Regular Council Meeting as corrected. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). CONSENT CALENDAR A. Claims and Payroll B. 1997 Budget Amendments C. Receive 1997 Treasurer's Report D. Parks and Recreation Commission Appointment MOTION: Councilmember Malone moved and Councilmember Keim seconded a motion to approve the Consent Calendar as listed above and authorize execution of all necessary documents contained therein. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - FEBRUARY 9 1998 2 . PUBLIC COMMENTS Mayor Probst invited those present to come forward and address the Council on any items not already on the agenda. Lois Rem, 1670 Glenview Court, reported that a stray cat had recently been diagnosed as having a highly infectious disease and cautioned all cat and dog owners of the dangers ofletting their animals run at large. She urged animal owners to have their pets checked for this disease. There were no other public comments. UNFINISHED AND NEW BUSINESS A. Lift Station #11, BRW Options . Mr. Dwayne Stafford, Public Works Superintendent, explained that with the upcoming reconstruciton of Highway 96, a feasibility study has been done on eliminating Lift Station #11 at Arden Manor. This station serves all of the triangle area surrounded by Highways 10,96 and 1- 35W and all of the existing Round Lake commercial and industrial properties. With the upcoming reconstruction of Round Lake Road, staff felt it was an appropriate time to look at all options, including the elimination of Lift Station #11. Mr. Stafford advised that the City Engineer was asked to look at this and BRW has determined it would be possible to eliminate this lift station, but with significant project costs. He stated that while he would like to eliminate this lift station, he does not know if the project cost can be justified. Mr. Stafford reviewed the efforts of other neighboring communities in eliminating the number of lift stations they maintain and operate. . Mr. Greg Brown, City Engineer, used an overhead map to identij'y the location of this lift station and the three alternates as identified in the feasibility report. Alternate A maintains the current lift station in place and indicates the costs associated with daily and periodic maintenance, periodic capital improvements, construction of a complete new lift station in the first year of the analysis and that the pump station controls would be replaced at year 30 of the analysis. The total capitalized cost for Alternate A is $211,564.05. Alternate B includes the construction ofa gravity sanitary sewer main extending from the current location of Lift Station # 11 south approximately 4, I 00 feet to connect to an existing 21-inch City interceptor sewer which was recently constructed along 14th Street. The sewer would require casing pipe under Highway 96 in order to allow for future maintenance without disruption to the highway. The pipeline would then run along the east side of Round Lake Road and connect to an existing manhole at the intersection of 14th Street and Round Lake Road. The total capitalized cost for Alternate B is $358,780.10. Alternate C includes the construction of a gravity sanitary sewer main extending from the current location of Lift Station #11 south approximately 3,700 feet to connect to an existing City interceptor sewer recently constructed along 14th Street. The pipeline would run along the west side of Round Lake within a proposed easement to be dedicated along the eastern edge of the Gateway Business District properties and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife property surrounding Round Lake. The alignment would then run between the proposed Welsh Companies Phase III and Phase IV developments before connecting to the sewer in 14th Street. The total capitalized cost for Alternate C is $373,358.42. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - FEBRUARY 9. 1998 3 Mr. Brown stated if the Council considers moving forward with this project, he would recommend Alternate B which uses the road right-of-way and could be constructed with the roadway project. This would allow costs associated with pavement removal, traffic control and restoration of pavement and boulevard to be charged to the roadway improvements, therefore lowering the cost for the sewer project. Mr. Brown noted the initial construction cost in 1998 dollars of $350,000. He explained the rates for annualized costs and break even points and stated it does have merit to eliminate a lift station, if feasible, and other communities do the same when it is possible. Mayor Probst asked about the estimates which do not reference pavement restoration. Mr. Brown stated it is assumed the lift station project would be done in conjunction with various roadway projects. Mayor Probst asked if the relocation routes discussed on the reconnection of Round Lake with Highway 96 will not provide any economies. Mr. Brown stated this is correct. Councilmember Malone stated he is sutprised at the high cost estimate. Mr. Stafford agreed this project is difficult to justify due to the high cost. He noted that staff may ask to replace Lift Station #11 as part of the Highway 96 reconstruction. Mayor Probst stated if a failure were to occur which required reconstruction, it may make sense to consider a conversion at that point. Until that occurs, he cannot justify the cost. Mr. Brown stated Ramsey County may relocate the station or consider funding for the relocation at a cost of $60,000 for the station and $20,000 for realignment. Councilmember Hicks inquired regarding the grade of the existing sewer line to make it flow south. Mr. Brown stated it would have to be reconstructed to flow south. Mayor Probst asked if it is already scheduled to televise this portion of the sewer line. Mr. Stafford stated it is not scheduled but could be. Mr. Brown stated the existing lift station is of a design which they are trying to get away from since all of the controls are 30 feet deep and located in a wet environment. Mayor Probst stated since there is no Council interest in moving forward with this project, it will be considered as informational. B. Resolution #98-22, Approving Plans and Specifications and Ordering Advertisement for Bids, 1998 Street Improvement Project Mr. Stafford explained the Council is asked to adopt Resolution #98-22 which approves the plans and specifications and orders the advertisement for bids for the 1998 Street Improvement Project. This recommendation includes the deletion of Glenpaul Avenue from the 1998 project. Mr. Statlord noted the Council approved Resolution #97-49 to authorize the preparation of detailed plans and specifications for the proposed 1998 street improvement project. This has been done, staff has reviewed the plans, and finds them acceptable. He noted the Council asked staff to ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - FEBRUARY 9.1998 4 . revisit Glenpaul Avenue based on resident's input to make sure all of the information had been gathered. Since that time, the City Engineer did test drilling and determined there is not sufficient base under the blacktop and it will probably not adequately support an overlay. Staff sent letters explaining this to residents on Glenpaul A venue and some are in attendance. Mr. Stafford advised that Staff does not think it is appropriate to overlay Glenpaul A venue and recommends it be dropped from the overlay list for this year and be considered for reconstruction at a later date. Mr. Stafford reported on the Stowe A venue sewer between Stowe A venue and Katie Lane. The City televised this sewer line, found minor problems, and corrected them. With these repairs completed, the line is in pretty good shape. Mr. Stafford reported the City has received a letter from one Stowe A venue resident recommending the line in the Katie Lane easement be removed. But if the line is placed in the Stowe Avenue right-of-way, then all of the residents on Stowe A venue would have to reorient their service counections. He estimated the cost for the new line and service hookups would be well over $ 100,000. Since the sewer line is not in bad condition, he recommends it be left as is and keep the Katie Lane easement open to aid proper maintenance. Mr. Stafford recommended the Council adopt Resolution #98-22, Approving Plans and Specifications and Ordering Advertisement for Bids for the 1998 Street Improvement Project. Councilmember Keirn clarified that the letter was from a resident on Katie Lane, not Stowe A venue. She reviewed the ages of the homes on Katie Lane and Stowe Avenue. . In response to Councilmember Malone, Mr. Ringwald advised the lots in the Katie Lane subdivision have homes which are located ten feet forward in order to accommodate this sanitary easement. MOTION: Councilmember Hicks moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to adopt Resolution #98-22, Approving Plans and Specifications and Ordering Advertisement for Bids, 1998 Street Improvement Project. Ernst Hunt, 1986 Glenpaul Avenue, stated he assumes the curb, stormsewer and blacktop project will be discussed in the future and residents will again be invited to attend. Mayor Probst stated this is correct and they will be notified next year when discussion occurs. Tom Whittle, 1867 Glenpaul Avenue, stated he attended the meeting last December and would like the City to reconstruct with curbs and storm sewer before too much time passes. He agreed with the staff recommendation that an overlay is not a good idea to construct at this time. Mr. Fritsinger advised staff received a letter from the property owner of 1932 Glenpaul Avenue expressing concern about the reconstruction project. Linda Hunt, 1986 Glenpaul Avenue, stated she has no problem with the reconstruct but she does not like curbing. She stated she also believes it would lower the project cost to not have curbing. . . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - FEBRUARY 9 1998 5 Mr. Brown explained curbing is an important aspect of a road reconstruction project to assist with drainage, to protect the edge of the asphalt from erosion, and to provide a better environment for maintenance. Vince Linders 1945 Glenpaul Avenue, inquired regarding the life expectancy for a reconstructed roadway. Mr. Brown stated it is 20 years according to MnDOT standards but that many roads, with minor maintenance, can last 30 to 35 years. He explained the layers of construction which are put into place under a reconstructed roadway. Mr. Linders reviewed how roadways are constructed in North Oaks which do not contain curb and gutter. Mr. Brown noted those roadways often contains ditches which provide for drainage away from the roadways. In Arden Hills, there are no ditch areas to address storm drainage. Mr. Linders asked if it is possible to construct Glenpaul A venue without storm sewer. Mr. Brown stated it may be possible but he would not recommend it. Mr. Linders asked how much notice residents will receive and if they could be given four to five years notice. Mayor Probst stated since Glenpaul A venue was pulled from the project this year due to the soil boring information, he expects it will be added to the project for next year. Mr. Linders asked if the City can leave it as it is for five years to allow residents to start saving for this improvement. Mr. Brown explained that they will reevaluate all of the City's roadways, including Glenpaul Avenue, to determine which roadways need to be addressed first. Mr. Linders asserted there are other roadways in Arden Hills that are in worse shape than Glenpaul Avenue. Ms. Rem stated the issues involved with curb and gutter will not go away. She reported on her conversation with the Watershed District about the benefit of curb and gutter. Ms. Rem noted most of the runoff in Arden Hills goes into ponds or wetlands. She stated the Watershed District had indicated to her they would prefer an urban design with a grass edge to filter runoff before it enters the wetlands. Ms. Rem asked if it is really cost effective to require curb and gutter which may not benefit drainage into wetlands. She asked whether it may be better to invest these funds into getting more roadways completed. Mayor Probst stated the City does believe it is cost effective. Also, Arden Hills does not have a storm drainage system so curb and gutter helps to direct drainage. Mayor Probst noted the City has been installing grit chambers at the request of the Watershed District. Mr. Brown clarified that Arden Hills does not have many urban section streets but, rather, streets with grass curbs where water runoff collects sediment more than if concrete curbs were present. He stated the solution is to install ponding, where appropriate, and grit chambers. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - FEBRUARY 9. 1998 6 . c. Stop Sign Request, Dnnlap Street N. at Tiller Lane Mr. Stafford explained the Public Safety Commission Chairperson, Ramsey County Deputy John Tholen, brought it to the City's attention that there have been a number of accidents at the intersection of Dunlap Street N. and Tiller Lane, and recommends the installation of stop signs on Dunlap. Staff sent letters to the most effected residents of this request. One resident called and indicated support for installing the stop signs. Mr. Stafford noted this is an area of restricted view due to pine trees and is a main thoroughfare. He recommended the Council approve the installation of stop signs on Dunlap Street N. Mr. Fritsinger reported he received a call from the resident at 3363 Dunlap who supported the stop signs but expressed some concern with regard to the speed on Tiller Lane and whether it would be affected. MOTION: Councilmember Hicks moved and Councilmember Keirn seconded a motion to authorize the installation of stop signs at the intersection of Dunlap Street N. and Tiller Lane, as recommended by the Public Safety Commission. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). D. Authorize Special Council Meeting, Tuesday, February 17, 1998 at 4:45 p.m., Gateway Business District, Bond Sale Bid Award . It was noted the Council is asked to authorize a special Council meeting on Tuesday, February 17, 1998 at 4:45 p.m. to discuss the final bond sale in the Gateway Business District (GBD). MOTION: Councilmember Malone moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion to schedule a special Council meeting on Tuesday, February 17, 1998 at 4:45 p.m. to discuss the bond sale bid award for the Gateway Business District. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). E. Welsh Companies, Planning Case #97-06, Modification of Condition Mr. Kevin Ringwald, Community Development Director, explained the Council is asked to consider a request from Welsh Development regarding a clarification on a condition to the PUD. This request relates to the traffic study and ability to construct additional square footage prior to the signalization/improvement of Round Lake Road. Mr. Ringwald explained that at that point in time, the City was looking at two phases with the third phase to follow. The developer had planned to initially develop Phase II with just over 100,000 square feet and Phase IV of 72,000 square feet, which allowed the developer time to start construction and the City time to reconstruct the intersection of Round Lake Road and Highway 96. . Mr. Ringwald reported that earlier this month, Welsh informed the City that AmberJack (purchaser of Phase II) also wants to purchase Phase III and wants to start construction on both buildings in March of 1998. Also, Apache Paper is looking at the Phase IV building and that construction will be well over the 200,000 square foot "mark" which was a condition ofthe approval. Mr. Ringwald eXplained that earlier this week it was determined the traffic engineering company study was a little "off the mark" since they had not included traffic from - . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - FEBRUARY 9.1998 7 Phase I of 155,00 square feet in their report. Therefore, there is about 45,000 square feet of capacity before an upgrade is needed. He noted the closing date is coming up and the developer wants to move forward with all three phases. The most optimistic estimate for intersection completion is mid- to late-fall but Welsh wants to occupy the buildings in August. This would conservatively result in a 75 day window that buildings would be occupied and roads not functioning in an appropriate manner. Mr. Ringwald stated a meeting was held with people involved and they looked at three options: I. Leave the PUD condition in place which means the buildings could be started but not occupied until the roads are done. (However, since there are some tenant obligations and in process of selling their buildings that would cause problems and may kill the deal); 2. Install temporary signalization at Round Lake Road and Highway 96 that would require signalizing the ramp which would be cost prohibitive and require Mn/DOT approval which may not be received in a timely manner; 3. Install a different type of control structure, one or two police officers at that intersection at given times. Mr. Ringwald advised that this system is being successfully used by the Blaine Airport. Staffs estimate of $30,000 is based on $40 per hour per deputy for two deputies for five hours per day for seventy-five days. Staff has not received a confirmation of the price from the Sheriff Deputy office. Mr. Ringwald stated the City is moving towards closing (February 13, 1998) and sale of the bonds. He noted that although it may be inconvenient, the intersection could operate with a police otIicer being present. Mr. Ringwald advised the Council will need to deal with who would pay for it. It is staffs perspective that this is an opportunity cost for the developer and that dollar amount should come from their side. Mr. Ringwald noted staff gave the Council releases from the Governor's office with regard to proposed class rate structure changes in the tax laws for commercial/industrial properties. He noted the City has already expended more than first thought for soils and brick upgrades and, with each item added, the cash flow becomes less. Mr. Ringwald pointed out that putting this Phase on line now increases tax revenue on Phase III by 12 to 18 months. He reported staff recommends approval of the requested modification to state: "Issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy permits for Phases II, III, and IV is subject to Welsh Companies agreeing to reimburse the City of Arden Hills for its costs associated with studying and implementing of temporary control structures which are acceptable to the City of Arden Hills at the intersection of Round Lake Road/Highway 96 to facilitate development of Phases II, III, and IV in 1998." Mr. Ringwald advised that a 4/5 vote of the Council is required for approvaL Mr. Ringwald noted the developer's bench handout explaining their side. Mayor Probst asked what would trigger using police officers for patrolling. Mr. Ringwald stated this would happen as soon as the building is occupied since occupancy will increase traffic through the intersection. Mayor Probst noted there is a potential for the occupant to manage the time of arrival by shifting start times so not all employees are entering or leaving at the same time. He stated he thinks the cost estimate for the patrol officcrs may be on the high range. Mr. Ringwald stated he does not know if tenants for Phase III have been identified but the first two phases probably have tenants lined up. . . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - FEBRUARY 9. 1998 8 Dick Zehring, Welsh Development, stated he believe this is good news. He explained the traffic study indicated that once the stacking and waiting time gets to about 90 seconds, it becomes a "Level F" of service intersection which is inconvenient and starts evasive behavior by motorists. He stated the empirical data will occur at some point in going from the "E" to the "F" level. He stated there will be some flexibility in using the police officer for patrol. He estimated that the occupancy of the Phase II or the Phase III building will result in the need for patrol services. Mr. Zehring stated they are happy to report the project continues to progress and commented that everyone is surprised at the traffic engineer's study. He noted that bringing on Phase III at this time will create more TIF proceeds, about $250,000, which can be underwritten. Mr. Zehring stated it is important to use all deliberate speed to complete the intersection project so the police are not needed any more than necessary. Councilmember Hicks stated the numbers assume the realignment takes place and there are some permanent light fixtures installed by November of 1998. Mr. Ringwald stated this is correct and they hope to start August 1 to August 15. They plan to install the wear course and signalization prior to the November deadline. Mr. Ringwald indicated he is concerned about obtaining favorable bids. He explained this process cannot start until the bonds are issued. Councilmember Hicks asked if the City will be able to complete acquisition without any major "snags." Mr. Ringwald advised the schedule does include time for some minor "snags" and allows the City to look at various options with regard to acquisition. Also, staff has talked with Ramsey County with regard to their cost participation. Mayor Probst stated he believes, based on conversations, it is likely that Indykiewicz will be willing sellers and there is no indication they would refuse to sell. Mr. Fritsinger stated staff has held several meetings and the Indykiewiczs have indicated as long as they are treated fairly they have no objection. Mr. Ringwald noted that this property will also involve relocation of their residence and business. Councilmember Hicks stated his concern with this issue. He noted the developer has indicated a willingness to pay for the patrol services with a cap of $30,000. Councilmember Hicks stated based on stafP s memo the earliest date to complete construction of the intersection would be OctoberlNovember. He stated he is uneasy about considering an estimate of $30,000. Mr. Ringwald explained staff is still working on this estimate and the rate per hour that would be paid. Mayor Probst stated he is prepared to support modifying the language as requested and is comfortable directing staff to work with the developer to determine when patrol services are needed. However, he does not support considering a "cap" on the amount which the developer will pay. Mayor Probst stated he believes some traffic management options exist with regard to start and stop times which would lower that cost. Councilmember Malone concurred and commented there may be some low-tech solutions. He asked if the tenants would consider a right turn only, or to stripe Highway 96 east bound for a left lane. Councilmember Malone stated he would support trying those low-tech options first. . ~ . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - FEBRUARY 9. 1998 9 Councilmember Aplikowski stated she is concerned about the traffic congestion that may result and is wiling to agree with the patrol officer and lane striping as suggested. She stated until there is a firm estimate she would not support considering a "cap" and believes that would be premature to consider at this time. Councilmember Keirn asked if a turn lane would increase traffic on Highway 10 and support the Mn/DOT proposal for a flyover of Highway 10. Mr. Brown stated identifYing a left turn and right turn on Round Lake Road would be a good option to consider. MOTION: Councilmember Hicks moved and Councilmember Aplikowski seconded a motion relating to the construction of additional square footage prior to the signalization/improvement of Round Lake Road and Highway 96 for Welsh Companies in Planning Case #97-06 to approve the modification ofPUD condition 1 to indicate: "Issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy permits for Phases II, III, and IV is subject to Welsh Companies agreeing to reimburse the City of Arden Hills for its costs associated with studying and implementing of temporary control structures which are acceptable to the City of Arden Hills at the intersection of Round Lake RoadlHighway 96 to facilitate development of Phases II, III, and IV in 1998" which will allow occupancy of Phases II, III and IV subject to the developer working with staff and the City to determine and put into place temporary structures at Round Lake Road and Highway 96 until permanent improvement in that intersection is made with the cost for any temporary structure or patrolling at the developer's expense. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). ADMINISTRATOR COMMENTS Mr. Fritsinger requested Council questions with regard to the Athletic Field discussion. Mr. Fritsinger reported on the status of closing relationship with Howard Green. COUNCIL COMMENTS Councilmember Aplikowski requested that a five-year plan be created when the streets are reevaluated so it can be on display for residents to better understand the timing of street improvements. Mayor Probst reported on the meeting held this past week and discussion about the athletic field complex. He explained it has been determined there is no location that would serve this need except the TCAAP facility. Also, the Comprehensive Plan identified that area for this type of facility. Mayor Probst estimated the City is probably two to three years away from getting that land. He advised there will be further discussion and more information will be available in April or May. Mayor Probst advised the Community Park and Recreation Directors were asked to look at all of the facilities in their community and identifY where opportunities exist or where areas could be converted or expanded to make better use of those facilities. - 4J . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - FEBRUARY 9. 1998 10 Mayor Probst expressed regret with regard to the resignation of Public Safety Commissioner William Gillies and thanked him for his years of service. Mayor Probst requested the Council look, in earnest, at the County Road F name change. Mr. Fritsinger advised it will be on an upcoming Worksession agenda. Mayor Probst requested staff prepare a resolution of support for the Tony Schmidt Park project to assure those facilities are funded. ADJOURN MOTION: Councilmember Hicks moved and Councilmember Malone seconded a motion to fdjourn the meeting at 9:30 p.m. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). d/' /7' /yf / ~-#;7 ~/ f;f;L- /. De is Pro st Bri;;; Fritsinger Mayor City Administrator NOTICE OF MEETINGS The next regular City Council meeting will be held February 23, 1998, at 7:30 p.m. at the New Brighton Council Chambers.