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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC 12-30-1985 -- - ------ MINUTES OF REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING Village of Arden Hills Monday, December 30, 1985 - 7:30 p.m. Village Hall Call to Order Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the meeting was called to order at 7:35 p.m. Roll Call Present: Mayor Robert Woodburn, Councilmembers Dale Hicks, Nancy Hansen, Gary Peck, Thomas Sather Absent: None Also Present: Engineers Donald Christoffersen and Glenn Van Wormer (SEH) Public Works Supervisor Robert Raddatz, Clerk Administrator . Charlotte McNiesh, Deputy Clerk Dorothy Zelun 1>",,..' ~1I-".,..fJ Approval of Minutes Hansen moved, seconded by Peek, that the minutes of the December 16 Council meeting be approved as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) Business from the Floor None Hamline Avenue, Phase II, Improvement No. P-85-3 Woodburn reported receipt of several communications to Council, in the form of letters, since the Public Hearing on December 9; reported two favored and two opposed the proposed improvement. Woodburn explained that Council will hear "new thoughts" tonight, not expressed at the Public Hearing; noted that the Public Hearing was closed on December 9. Traffic Engineer Glenn Van Wormer was asked to summarize his memo to Council (12/27/85) relative to the design project for Hamline Avenue and questions . relating to traffic. Van Wormer reported that the State feels a traffic signal at Highway 96 and Hamline is justified, but that it has a low priority based on the traffic volumes, accidents and general traffic movements and has not yet been pro- grammed. Van Wormer said a traffic signal at this location would provide southbound gaps in traffic along Hamline and would benefit traffic along Hamline as well as at the intersection. He noted that the annual cost of a signal is about $9,600; reported that we now have about 8000 cars/day on RamUne. Van Wormer said they estimate that about 50% of the traffic on Hamline is from the Hamline area; estimate about 3700/day. Van Wormer explained that the intersection of Hamline and County Road F is under State jurisdiction; noted that a traffic signal is not considered there because of low traffic vplumes except for two periods during the day; noted that the State's main concern is the existing weaving movement between traffic coming from the westbound off-ramp of 1-694 and northbound Hamline Avenue traffic; noted a traffic signal could create operational problems at the intersection. Van Wormer also explained that a traffic signal between County Road F and Highway 96 (requested at the Public Hearing) would have to be at an inter- section and meet all design standards (at a cost of about $80,000); noted . that it would create gaps in traffic and the ability to cross Hamline Avenue at a specific location; noted that the detriments would be the anticipated accidents, the longer delays on the cross street at the signal (with the exception of the morning rush hour) and the high cost. Christoffersen was asked the estimated cost of a 36' street vs the proposed 3-lane 46' wide street. Answer: 36' street with sidewalk - $766,800 46' street with sidewalk - $877,000 . Minutes of Regular Council Meeting, December 30 ~' '.. Page two Hicks asked if the 36' street cost would include widened areas for turn lanes. Answer: No - two traffic lanes, shoulder and walkway. Hicks noted that, depending on the number of turn lanes installed, it appears the installation of turn lanes would exceed the cost of a full 3-lane road. Van Wormer said about 900' of widening is needed for an adequate turn lane. Hansen asked if a two-lane road, with shoulders which would provide room for disabled vehicles and bicycles, would be more beneficial (similar to Lake Johanna Boulevard). Van Wormer said it is desirable to separate cars from bicycles for safety. Hansen reported that the Public Safety Committee listened to many residents wanting turn lanes on Hamline Avenue; now, they oppose the turn lanes; asked if a two-lane road is better. . Van Wormer explained that the 3-lane road is intended to provide for safe turns; putting the turn lane in the center reduces the cost. The installation of a "walk~light" was queried. Van Wormer explained that you must have a semaphore if you have a walk light; the semaphore would be at City's cost - could be either an "add-on" or a separate contract; noted that the biggest problem would be the danger of cars running the light, which is likely when drivers experience the light to be always green. Another suggestion was installation of a "walk-over" at the location of the pathway. Hansen said she does not see this as a viable alternative because her experience is that people don't use them. Hansen asked about the possibility of a semaphore at the 1-694 accesS ramp. Van Wormer said the State will want to look at the effect of the proposed changes before considering a semaphore. Hansen asked if the proposed changes still permit a left turn to southbound Highway 51 at County Road F. Van Wormer said this turn is still provided. Woodburn noted that the changes are considered to be an improvement, but are not considered to be "perfect". Hansen asked if closing the 1-694 access ramp is an option. Answer was this would remove Hamline from the MSA status. Hicks asked if the shoulder area proposed is adequate for right turns into Arden View Drive/Court. Van Wormer said it can be used; it is not the width ?f turn lane and not striped as a turn lane; shoulders are paved. Comments from the Floor Lorraine Manuel said she does not understand why Arden Hills should concern itself with providing a street for traffic coming into the area; feels a 3-lane street will reduce property value of homes along Hamline; feels a semaphore at Hamline and STH 96 is essential. Mark Peterson said his concern is for pedestrian safety; wants some provision for crossing Hamline Avenue safely. Van Wormer said a marked crossing area can be provided; noted it must be located where pedestrians can be seen by motorists; cautioned that drivers tend to get careless with little traffic at crossings; noted you have to rely on education of both motorists and pedestrians, and the ability to see. Kay LORaian said her driveway access is to Hamline Avenue; has changed her mind since the Public Hearing; now feels the 3-lanes, providing for turns, is the best alternative. . Steve Dorr said the proposed road has pluses and minuses; feels with 3-lanes it will turn into a freeway, with increased speed; asked if cars will pass slower traffic in the middle lane. Van Wormer said the turn lane will provide for uniform speed, which is safer; drivers do not have the tendency to pass if the speed is uniform. Center lane is for turns, not a passing lane. Jim Otto asked if we qualify for a semaphore at STH 96. Van Wormer explained that the State has warrants which must be met, and priorities and limited funds; reported the volumes are there, but this location is low on the State's priority list; estimated it may be two years before a light could be installed ------------- . . Minutes of Regular Council Meeting, December 30 Page three at STH 96 and Hamline. Otto noted that with the update of Hamline, we will get more traffic; therefore, the increase will increase the priority with the State. Van Wormer said they can try to work for a cooperative agreement with the State for this installation; can't guarantee it will be installed. Jerry Sladek asked if the road can be built without curb and storm sewer; feels the walkway is not necessary - who wants to jog with the exhaust fumes; feels there is too much traffic on Hamline to encourage bicycles and joggers. Christoffersen said we need the storm drainage and curb to meet MSA standards. Hansen noted that the Parks Committee has received numerous requests for bikeways and walkways; noted that the on-street bikeway on Johanna Blvd. seems to work well. Christoffersen explained that there was not sufficient right-of-way for a detached bikeway along Johanna Blvd. . Suzanne Dorr asked who will be assessed; feels it is more fair to decide before the improvement rather than after; feels the cost should be shared by all who use Hamline; not only by those whose property abuts Hamline. Woodburn explained that the City policy has been to determine assessments after completion of the project; when all costs are known. Christoffersen explained that there is a provision to assess ahead of time, but it is dangerous to do so before all costs are known; stated a second hearing can be held to pick up additional costs, if necessary. Hansen stated that MSA funds will be used for $614,000 of cost. Woodburn explained that there are several options available to the City to pay for the project; noted that City can assess all or part of the cost, can use budget reserves, can put on general taxes, etc.; said he doubts that there will be an assessment, but he can't speak for the Councilor for future Counc Us . Jerry Timm said he can't foresee why anyone would put the project in without a sidewalk; feels we need a sidewalk. Hansen noted that there have been several accidents on Hamline; asked if we will lose the ditches with a 36' road. Christoffersen said yes; MSA Standards require curb and paved shoulder - there would be no on-street parking, two 12' wide single lanes, and paved shoulders. Hansen said she agrees that a semaphore is needed at STH 96; asked if it will make gaps in traffic. Van Wormer said it will for southbound traffic - will not do anything for northbound on Hamline. Hansen asked if we can eliminate truck traffic, namely army convoys, etc. Answer was. no, not if a State Aid road. Hansen asked if a traffic signal can be installed at City's cost. Answer was, yes. Hicks asked about a "stop" sign as a deterrent for use of Hamline, possibly at Floral Drive. Van Wormer said it would probably not impede traffic that much, and would probably be violated by residents of the area. Hicks sug- gested that we could experiment, and remove it if it doesn't work. Another location for a "stop" was at Arden View Drive and Hamline, a four-way "stop". Van Wormer said he felt the Hamline traffic would run 2 and 3 cars through at one time and then traffic speed would increase further down the road; feels it would be better to try for a traffic signal. Peck asked Van Wormer about experience with a 3-1ane road; noted his own . confusion as to when to enter the center lane for an anticipated turn. Van Wormer said drivers tend to be conservative when confused; reported 3-1ane seems to work well. accidents have been reduced; feels 3-lane roads work satisfactorily. Woodburn noted that the Parks Committee has requested some beautification of this road; asked Christoffersen if we will be able to add for beautifi- cation. Christoffersen said it can be an "add-on" or a separate contract. -- . Minutes of Regular Council Meeting. December 30 Page four Hicks moved to adopt Resolution No. 85-64, ORDERING CONSTRUCTION OF IMPROVE- MENT NO. P-85-3, AND ORDERING PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS THEREFOR for a 46' wide 3-1ane road with a detached sidewalk. Motion was seconded by Woodburn and did not carry. Hicks and Woodburn voting in favor of the motion. Sather. Peck and Hansen voting in opposition. (2-3) Sather said he was disappointed the motion came so soon; feels it was pre- mature; said he needs to know the quantity and speed of traffic on a 3-1ane road; wants to discourage traffic on this road; noted it is designated as a parkway; is disappointed we do not have the City Planner involved. Hansen noted that the proposed project was reviewed by the Parks Committee and the City Planner; reported that it was determined that the addition of some p1antings is about all that can be done with the given right-of-way; . noted that the Committee wanted 2 walkways; also requested that residents also be encouraged to put in plantings on their properties along Hamline. Hansen moved that Council approve construction of a 40' wide road - two 12' driving lanes and 8' wide shoulders. no left turn lanes. and a detached sidewalk. Motion failed for lack of a second. Sather suggested that Council instruct the Engineer to work with the City Planner and Council to come up with a plan that is equitable. Christoffersen said he and Planner Miller did discuss various road widths; reported that the limited right-of-way and the existence of utility lines on both sides of the street restrict extensive landscaping. Van Wormer asked Sather and Peck if they have specific concerns that either he or Christoffersen could answer. It was stressed that MSA Standards must be met if MSA funds are to be used; otherwise the road improvement will be totally at City's cost. Hicks noted that the road could be constructed at minimal cost to the City. if built to MSA Standards. and with little or no assessments. Woodburn noted that the State may not reconstruct its portion of the improvement at 1-694, if the City does not proceed with this project to the north; State's plans are designed to tie into the City's improvement plans. Peck said he needs more time to think about it; prefers to wait to another meeting before making a decision. Hansen suggested that Council consider the advisability of four-way "stop" signs at either Wyncrest Court or Arden View Court to allow access onto Ham1ine, and to reduce speed on Hamline Avenue. No further action was taken. (McNiesh to determine whether another Public Hearing is required. if Council wishes to consider another motion.) 1986 Insurance Premiums - William Hite William Hite. insurance agent of record for Arden Hills. distributed copies of Insurance Quotations for 1986, as compared to those of 1985. quoted by Western Surety Co. Hite listed several companies that refused to quote municipal insurance; reported that we used to ask for bids. now private companies won't bid; so. we are back with the League of Minnesota Cities; noted that the League will continue to write the coverages listed. premiums are doubling. but feels we are lucky someone will write it; recommended that the City accept the proposal. Hite explained that Arden Hills had a 3 million "umbrella"; maximum we can get now is 1 million. . Hite explained that $4,370 is paid by all participating cities to build up the League of Minnesota Cities insurance trust reserve; explained if there are excess reserves. they will come back to the cities in the form of dividends. Hite explained that the quote of $66,345 does not include Workers' Compensation. Woodburn thanked Mr. Hite for his explanation and efforts on behalf of the City and Council. . , Minutes of Regular Council Meeting, December 30 Page five REPORT OF VILLAGE TREASURER DONALD LAMB Investments 12/18/85 - $181,081.95 at First Federal at 7.70%, maturing 1/15/86. Hicks moved, seconded by Hansen, that Council ratify the investment by Treasurer Lamb. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) Lamb reported that transactions for the GO Advance Refunding Bonds were completed on December 27. Approval to Attend Annual Institute of Bui1dinR Officials . Council was referred to memo from Building Inspector Larry Squires re Annual Institute for Building Officials (12/23/85). Hansen moved, seconded by Sather, that Council authorize Squire's attendance at the 3-day institute as outlined in memo. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) Bid for 1980 Ford 1/2 Ton Pickup Raddatz reported receipt of only one quote, for the 1980 Ford 1/2 ton pickup, within the time which was set to receive bids; bid is in the amount of $2,055 (estimated worth is $2.500). Raddatz requested direction from Council as to whether we should accept or reject the bid received. Raddatz said his estimated worth of $2,500 was made by talking to dealers and book value, and his own analysis of the vehicle; noted it has 66,000 miles, a good record, with no major mechanical problems; is 6 years old, looks good, has fair tires and very little rust. After discussion, Hansen moved, seconded by Sather, that Council authorize Raddatz to accept this bid of $2,055.00. Motion carried (Hansen, Sather, Peck, Woodburn voting in favor of the motion; Hicks voting in opposition.) ( 4-1) Discussion - 1986 Conunittee Members Hansen suggested that Council encourage conunittee members to attend at least 50% of the committee meetings; suggested that Council look at attendance, on this basis, when making assignment reconunendations for 1987 conunittees. Council reviewed the various conunittee lists, and McNiesh's memos of 12/13 and 12/17, 1985, listing volunteers offering to serve on the various com- mittees. Committee appointments to be made at Council meeting on January 2, 1986. Discussion - 1986 Appointments Council was referred to list of 1985 appointments for review and recommenda- tions for 1986. Village appointments to be made at Council meeting on January 2, 1986. OTHER BUSINESS None . REPORT OF VILLAGE CLERK ADMINISTRATOR CHARLOTTE MCNIESH Approval of 1986 Business Licenses Council was referred to list of 1986 business licenses requiring Council approval. Sather moved, seconded by Peck, that Council approve the 1986 business licenses as presented. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) -.-.-..- . . Minutes of Regular Council Meeting, December 30 Page six January Council Meetin~ Schedule Hicks moved, seconded by Peck, that the following Council meetings be scheduled in January: January 2 - Special Council Meeting at 6:00 p.m. at the Village Hall January 9 - Joint Shoreview/Arden Hills Council Meeting at 7:30 p.m. at the Shoreview Village Hall January 13 - Regular Council Meeting at 7:30 p.m. at the Village Hall . January 27 - Regular Council Meeting at 7:30 p.m. at the Village Hall Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) . Claims Hansen moved, seconded by Peck, that Council approve the Claims as presented. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) Adjournment Hicks moved, seconded by Hansen, that the meeting adjourn at 11:00 p.m. Motion carried unanimously. (5-0) ~M)/;;)uJ ,(~~~~~ Charlotte McNiesh Robert L. Woodburn Clerk-Administrator Mayor Notice of Meetin~ Two Special Council Meetings will be held, on January 2, at 6:00 p.m. - Arden Hills Village Hall, and on January 9, at 7:30 p.m., - Shoreview Village Hall. The next Regular Council Meeting will be on January 13, 1986, at Arden Hills Village Hall. . - -- -- December 26, 1985 The following licenses are submitted for Council approval December 30, 1985. All are renewals, except for McGuire's Inn increase from 3 amusement devices to 7. Service America Corporation Restaurant at Control Data 2 Cigarette Vending, Control Data Hoigaard's, Inc. Retail Sales Emerald Inn Hotel/Motel Cigarette Vending Blue Fox Inn Cigarette Vending . Restaurant Amusement Devices (2) Scherer Bros. Lumber Company Retail Sales Sundry Shop (located in Retail Sales Control Data) Mutual Service Cooperative Restaurant (employee cafeteria) Honeywell, Inc. Restaurant, Bldg. 103 Restaurant, Bldg. 502 Restaurant, Bldg. 104 Interstate United Corporation Cigarette Vending (Cardiac Pacemakers) Sun Place Tanning Studio Retail Sales (Arden Plaza) McGuire's Inn Cigarette Vending (2) Hotel/Motel Restaurant. Mechanical Amusement Devices (7) Star Liquors, Inc. Retail Sales MN Viking Food Service, Inc. Cigarette Vending (4) (located in Honeywell buildings) Flaherty's Arden Bowl, Inc. Cigarette Vending (2) Restaurant Year Round Amusement Facility Over 15 Mechanical Amusement Devices (Flaherty's enclosed a letter of protest re payment of licenses) R. L. Gould Cigarette Vending . - ----- December 30, 1985 The following license applications were received since the list prepared on December 26 and included in the Council mail. Arden Hills Nursery Retail Sales O'Donnell's Cleaners Retail Sales (Arden Plaza) . Lean Year Co. One Mechanical Amusement Device 1036 W. Minnehaha (Big Ten) St. Paul, MN 55104 (Last year Lean Year licensed twelve "Skil-Stop" machines, ten at the Big Ten, and two at Blue Fox. They have removed all but one at the Big Ten. ) Arden Plaza Coast to Coast Retail Sales International Paper Cigarette Vending 1300 Red Fox Road Arden Plaza Pharmacy Retail Sales Cigarette Vending . --