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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC 03-11-1996 . . .e . . . . . . .~ . . . . . . . .. . MINUTES CITY OF ARDEN HILLS, MINNESOTA REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MARCH 11, 1996 7:30 P.M. - NEW BRIGHTON COUNCIL CHAMBERS CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, Acting Mayor Beverly Aplikowski called to order the regular City Council meeting at 7:30 p.m. Present: Acting Mayor Beverly Aplikowski, Council members Susan Keirn, Paul Malone, Dale Hicks. Absent: Mayor Dennis Probst. Also present were: City Administrator, Brian Fritsinger; City Accountant, Terry Post; Public Works Superintendent, Dwayne Stafford; Community Development Director, Kevin Ringwald; Parks and Recreation Director, Cindy Walsh; and Recording Secretary, Cathy Sorensen. ADOPT AGENDA Acting Mayor Aplikowski noted that Item 4b of the Consent Calendar (Gift to Valentine Hills PTA) should be moved to a separate item after the Consent Calendar. MOTION: Malone moved and Hicks seconded a motion to adopt the agenda for the March I 1, 1996 Regular City Council meeting as amended. The motion carried unanimously (4-0). APPROVAL OF MINUTES February 20, 1996: No corrections. February 26, 1996 Correction: Page 11, Paragraph 1, change to read: "Councilmember Malone stated that the City sealcoats and fills cracks. He explained that until the 1980's, this was done on a rotating basis every five years, so one-fifth ofthe roads were repaired each year. , , ,- , , , , , , ,. , , , , , , , ,e , ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MARCH 11.1996 2 CounciImember Malone stated Mr. Aiken's street underwent crack repair and was sealcoated in 1995." Page 6, New Paragraph 7, add: "CounciImember Keirn stated that ifthe City had a windfall of additional monies made available, more money could be considered for the project." MOTION: Malone moved and Keirn seconded a motion to approve the February 20 and February 26, I 996, Regular Council Meeting minutes as corrected. The motion carried unanimously (4-0). CONSENT CALENDAR A. Appointments to City Committees B. Claims and Payroll MOTION: Hicks moved and Keirn seconded a motion to approve the Consent Calendar as presented, and authorize execution of all necessary documents contained therein. The motion carried unanimously (4-0). GIFT TO VALENTINE HILLS PT A Acting Mayor Aplikowski prescnted a $2,000 gift from the City towards construction of a new playstructure at Valentine Hills Elementary School park. A PTA member accepted the gift on behalf of the PT A and VaIentinc Hills Elementary School. Acting Mayor ApIikowski extended hcr appreciation to the PT A and the work they do. PUBLIC COMMENTS Acting Mayor ApIikowski invited the audience to address the Council on any issue not already on the Agenda. Tom Mulcahy, 3530 Siems Court, read the attached comments regarding the gift to the Valentine Hills PT A and the 1996 Street Improvement Project for the Council's consideration. Acting Mayor ApIikowski stated the reason she consented to the $2,000 contribution, is because the City uses this park as well as the elementary school. Sean McDermott, 3632 Pascal Avenue North, stated his home was built in the 1900's, and is set 24 feet from Pascal Avenue; his neighbor's home is 21 feet from the road. Mr. McDermott stated he is concerned that the street improvement project, which will widen his road to 24 feet, . . .- . . . . . . .~ . . . . . . . .e . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MARCH II. 1996 3 will take one to three feet of his front yard. Mr. McDermott noted he contacted two realtors, who stated in their opinion, the property value will likely depreciate if the road is widened. He also contacted a landscaper, whose opinion indicated, he could lose the mature oaks and pine trees along the boulevard if the street is widened. Mr. McDermott stated there is no through-traffic on Pascal Avenue, and that the 21-foot width is wide enough to park three firetrucks side-by-side, if necessary. He offered photographs to the Council of his home and Pascal A venue. Acting Mayor Aplikowski noted that with curbs, the widened road could be 26 feet in width. Councilmember Hicks noted that the south end of Pascal Avenue, which connects with County Road E, is currently 26 feet wide. He inquired if the Fire Marshall had offered his opinion on the street width. Brian Fritsinger, City Administrator, stated staff had not yet discussed this issue with the Fire Marshall. Council member Hicks inquired ifthe City had sufficient right-of-way for Pascal Avenue. Mr. Fritsinger replied the original proposal from Greg Stonehouse, the Consulting City Engineer, was for a 32 foot wide street, with no need for acquisition of private property. Mr. McDermott inquired why the City wished to hurt the property owners; he stated the neighborhood would not look right if the street was widened. Councilmember Hicks replied it was not the Council's intent to hurt property owners, but was merely clarifying the right-of~way. He stated that if 21 feet is wide enough to be adequate for public safety vehicles to pass safely, he would be inclined not to widen Pascal, as it is a dead end street. Council member Malone suggested the street could be tapered. He stated it needs to be done for drainage purposes. Councilmember Malone noted that three fire trucks abreast is physically possible, but not practical in reality, as they must be able to operate. Mr. McDermott inquired if therc was a parks staff person who could look at the trees along Pascal Avenue and give their opinion if they would be damaged during construction. Mr. Fritsinger stated the City does not have a specific staff person for tree preservation, but noted the standards for tree preservation are well known throughout cities, and the City would work with the residents to save as many trces as possible during construction. Acting Mayor Aplikowski stated the Council will review this issue again and do its best to lessen the impact on Pascal Avenue. Gloria Kuehn, 3581 Ridgewood Road, inquired if a final decision had been made regarding Ridgewood Road construction. She noted a large drain should be included in the plans, as standing water is a problem on the end of Ridgewood Road and Ridgewood Court from the . . .- . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .e . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MARCH 11. 1996 4 melting ice and snow. Mr. Fritsinger replied Ridgewood Road street improvements would be reviewed at the March 25, 1996, City Council meeting. There were no other public comments at this time. UNFINISHED AND NEW BUSINESS A. 1996 Street Improvement Project Update Mr. Fritsinger reported that Staff was directed, at the last City Council Meeting, to meet with the Oak Avenue residents to create a plan for street improvements that could meet their requests regarding retaining the cul-de-sac, curb and gutter, and maintaining street width issues. Dwayne Stafford, Public Works Superintendent, reported that preliminary plans and specifications are complete with the exception of Oak Avenue. He stated that he, Mr. Fritsinger, and Mr. Stonehouse met with the Oak Avenue residents (with Mr. Warkentin as their representative) on February 29,1996. Mr. Stafford stated a preliminary plan was presented to the residents at the meeting, which outlined Oak Avenue be reconstructed to a 26-foot width with surmOlmtable curb and gutter, leaving the island in the cul-de-sac, but enlarging the paved portion of the cul-de-sac somewhat as per MNDOT's bus template. Mr. Stafford stated the Oak A venue residents had agreed to total reconstruction of Oak Avenue Witll the following elements: (I) maintain tlle primary street width at 26 feet; (2) installation of surmountable curbs; (3) cul-de-sac redesigned according to the Engineer's design modifications (including street width, proximity to existing street location); and (4) final approval by the Oak Avenue residents of the reconstruction plan prior to implementation. Mr. Stafford stated the Public Works Staff would recommend the first three elements but is opposed to the residents' request for the final approval of the plans, as it sets a precedent for future resident issues. Mr. Stafford stated that the sewer lines under Oak A venue have recently been televised, and several broken pipes, including chunks of clay in the lines were discovered. He stated repair of the broken lines will be the first priority. Mr. Stafford noted some pipes may be able to be fixed from above ground by a repair construction technique, but if this method does not work, then extensive repair work (including digging up the street) may be required. Councilmember Hicks stated the Oak Avenue residents' request for final approval is merely a matter ofterminology--the residents cannot approve the plans anyway. Dwight Warkentin, 1666 Oak Avenue, stated the residents intent was to have the liberty to review the plans, not approve them. He noted the residents and the City have had a good . . .- . . . I . . .. . I I I I . . .e . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MARCH 11. 1996 5 working relationship throughout this process, and merely wished to continue that by being given the opportunity to review the plans prior to construction. Mr. Warkentin noted that at the last meeting, Mayor Probst used the word "cheat" to describe construction around the cul-de-sac. He stated Mr. Stonehouse followed the specifications, and did not vary from them. Mr. Warkentin wanted to ensure that the City Council's direction of Staff to work with the residents is folJowed. Councilmember Hicks stated he had no issue with the plans being reviewed by the residents. He noted his understanding ofthe Mayor's term "cheat" referred to bus drivers driving on the grass if necessary, not to the construction specifications of the cuI-de-sac. Mr. Warkentin noted the plan is consistent with the radius ofless than 15 feet to permit movement of oversized vehicles, such as a bus. Councilmember Hicks noted the Council appreciated the residents' input, and wanted to clarify their intent of approving the plans. Councilmember Keirn inquired which plan was agreed to regarding the cul-de-sac. Mr. Fritsinger replied the plan identified as Exhibit # I was outlined in Mr. Stonehouse's memorandum of March 6, 1996, with some minor modifications, agreed to by Mr. Stonehouse. Councilmember Keirn noted a lift station was denoted by 1655 Oak Avenue, and inquired what the "XXX"s denoted on the plan by 1611 Oak Avenue. Mr. Fritsinger replied it outlined a fence on the property. Councilmember Malone thanked the residents and Staff for working together tlrrough this process. He noted the Council never meant to be adversarial toward the residents, and it is always best when the City and residents can work together. Councilmember Malone verified the dashed lines on Exhibit 1 (attached) as the existing road, and the outer solid line as the right-of-way. Mr. Fritsinger stated that was correct. Councilmember Malone stated the City will do its best to follow the plans presented, but noted that unknown circumstances may require the plans to be modified. He ensured the City would not do anything drastically different than outlined here. Discussion was held on the measurement of different curb facings. Councilmember Malone inquired ifthe City had plans and specifications for Oak Avenue. Mr. Fritsinger replied the City did not. . . .e . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .e . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MARCH II. 1996 6 Acting Mayor Aplikowski inquired what decision is needed. Mr. Fritsinger replied a decision is needed to order the plans and specifications. Acting Mayor Aplikowski inquired what would happen to the landscaping along the street once construction began. Mr. Fritsinger stated the City would save as much landscaping as possible, but some would be lost. He noted that sufficient notice would be given to the residents for relocation of landscaping, ifthey chose. Acting Mayor Aplikowski wanted it noted that there will be an impact on landscaping, but the City will do its best to minimize where it can, and do a better job notifying than with the County Road F residents last year. Acting Mayor Aplikowski inquired if the pipe repair will change the reconstruction schedule. Mr. Stafford replied that the television tapes will be reviewed this week by InfraTech, the company that televised the line, and a decision would be made by Mr. Stonehouse. Mr. Stafford stated in his opinion it should not affect the reconstruction schedule a great deal, but could not give a definite answer, because of extenuating circumstances. Discussion was held on the benefits of surmountable curb and gutter for water drainage. MOTION: Malone moved and Hicks seconded a motion to direct the City Engineer to prepare plans and specifications for the Oak A venue Street Improvement Proj ect as outlined in the March 6, 1996, memorandum from the City Engineer. The motion carried unanimously (4-0). Mr. Fritsinger verified that the City Council wanted the City Engineer to review Pascal Avenue street width and revise the plans and specifications to taper the street and keep it as close to 21 feet as possible. Councilmember Malone explained that plans and specifications will be drawn, with the bidding process beginning and will then anticipate accepting a contract for construction by June 1, 1996. He also noted an Assessment Hearing will be held before construction begins. Greg Smith, 1644 Oak Avenue, inquired what the impact of the sewer repair would be to the residents. Mr. Stafford stated that at worst the street would have to be dug up and removed to repair the line. Mr. Smith inquired if there would be any cost to the Oak Avenue residents. Councilmember Malone stated repairs are not assessed, and the sewer utility would pay for any repairs needed. Councilmember Malone inquired ofthe deptb of the sewer line. Mr. Stafford replied it is approximately 10 to 15 feet down. I . .e . . I . . . .. I . . . . . . .e I ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - MARCH 1 L 1996 7 ADMINISTRATOR COMMENTS Mr. Fritsinger inquired ifthere were any changes to the letter to Mr. Williams. Councilmember Keirn suggested changing "should" to "will" to make it stronger. Mr. Fritsinger noted that Carl Rundquist has resigned from the Finance Committee. He stated a thank you letter will be sent, recognizing Mr. Rundquist for his contributions to the Committee. Mr. Fritsinger noted there is an opening on the Finance Committee, and inquired if the Council knew of any residents who may want to serve. Mr. Fritsinger noted that the remaining assessment appeal has been dismissed. COUNCIL COMMENTS Councilmember Keirn inquired when the Cleveland Avenue bridge hearing is scheduled. Councilmember Malone stated it will bc March 28, 1996, at the New Brighton Family Services Center at 7:00 p.m. Councilmember Keirn noted she had not received any notice of this meeting. Councilmember Hicks noted that Mr. Rundquist had several years of experience on the Finance Committee, and has served the City well. He continued that Mr. Rundquist's time with the City is exemplary, and was confident the letter ofrecognition will reflect the City's thanks. Acting Mayor Aplikowski noted she has arranged for two residents from two different precincts to serve on the Newsletter Committee. Acting Mayor Aplikowski extended her thanks to Mr. Fritsinger and staff for the good work on the legislative hearing. Mr. Fritsinger acknowledged the hearings are very educational. ADJOURN MOTION: ,I. Malone moved and Keirn seconded a motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:30 p.m. /,/"Thc m Hon carned unanimously (4-0). ./ , J .../;L/l....;z..' !. / // / . //" ./ / ~ / ::-~.i;~.,~g:;;(?/- / /' ," /.:.<>:> //t>j / / , / / I', " :/ ./ ennis Probst Mayor Brian,pritsi~ger City Administrator NOTICE OF MEETINGS Thc next regular City Council meeting will be held March 25,1996, at 7:30 p.m. at New Brighton City Hall. I I Ie I I I I I I .e I I I I I I I Ie I Arden Hills City Council Meeting -- March 11. 1996 Comments from Tom Mulcahy 3530 Siems Court I wish to speak on two subjects -- one in praise, the other in criticism First the critical comment. I refer to the Council's decision to donate $2,000 to the playground structure at Val Hills Sch My info on this matter comes from the Bulletin news story and from the Jan Parks Comm mtg I start with the principle that it is nQJ3,.Ql of charity to give away other people's money It may make you feel good; it may be a cause you believe in; it may be worthwhile -- if such is the case, get out your own checkbook and donate Let's review the bidding; Original request $10,000 -. Parks Comm said maybe $500 -- most importantly~ Parks said iL\toesn't appear anywhere on our list of priorities (and it comes out of our funds, out of priorities we have identified) If you have been among the minimally alert in the last two years, you know that our school district has bonded and spent $20 million on capital imprm'-ermmts. Some very considerable portion at Val Hills. Go look at the site. There's new parking, grading, walls, entrances etc. -- all apparently deemed vital to the educational mission there -- that anyone can price out in the big bucks. Now, if the education folks have $20 million and can't find funds for a play structure at an elementary school, I say it's not up to the PTA or the City of Arden Hills to remedy their stupidity. We have been had. What next? A city donation to buy books? Get real. Get the tears out of your eyes. If the reporting is accurate, I am particularly upset with the mayor. Dennis, you must have dreamed you were on a foundation grants committee rather than a city council. $5000 for goodness sake. Dennis, you know better. Do good with your own money, not mine I am equally upset with the other three council members who voted for a $2000 gift. What's the rationale? Half way between $5000 and $500? I pay about $300 to Arden Hills in taxes and I'm very satisfied with the service I get for that. But I don't want you handling my charitable giving budget. I repeat it is no a_ct of charity to give away. other people's money. I I I~ I I I I I I Ie I I I I I I I I- I Arden Hills City Council Meeting -- March 11, 1996 Comments from Tom Mulcahy 3530 Siems Court And now for the praise -- equally well deserved, I think I refer to the Site Visit Schedule in Feb for five street improvement projects. A very good idea to reach out for comment and input -- outside the formal hearing process. I spoke to both the Pub Works Dir and the Engineer on site. I'm not sure they shared my enthusiasm on that chilly day, but I'm sure the time and expense were well spent. The written communications on street projects have improved greatly. I even received a call from the Director to be sure I had received a notice. Street improvement communication is something that needs constant attention because it's a different group of citizens every year, every time Good work, good idea. Here again, let me suggest that a principle, or at least a strong consensus, is emerging in these street renewal projects. It is this: We.iJQn't want our residential streets widened to fit some rule lJ]arte for other circumstance~, Your decision on Oak Avenue (24' to 26' width and preserve the cul-de-sac island) is a perfect example of accommodation. But, an even better course would be to adopt a policy of maintaining the present width of streets in reconstruction so that the engineer would not bring in proposals to reconstruct to "standard" These guys love their rule books; we have to make it possible for them to look up and see the situation in local terms. Then the Engineer would not say, as he did on Jan 29th: "We want to create a uniform urban-type street in Arden Hills" (See Bulletin Feb 7) No, Greg, we don't. and we shouldn't have to mobilize the neighborhood on every project There is every reason to rethink inflexible s.tr~et standards. Shoreview did it on Reiland Lane in 1995. Drive that street and see how its character was preserved. It's charming, This year Roseville reconsidered its 32' rule. (See Focus New~ Feb 22) The Roseville Pub Works Dir was quoted: "In my opinion, a 28-foot street is reasonable in most cases." See, there's hope. Thanks for your time and attention.