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HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-10-2006Q C. C E. F MINUTES MAPLEWOOD CITY COUNCIL 7:00 P.M. Monday, July 10, 2006 Council Chambers, City Hall Meeting No. 06-18 CALL TO ORDER A meeting of the City Council was held in the Council Chambers, at City Hall, and was called to order at 7:10 P.M. by Mayor Longrie. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE ROLL CALL Diana Longrie, Mayor Present Rebecca Cave Councilmember Present Erik Hjelle, Councilmember Present Kathleen Juenemann, Councilmember Present Will Rossbach, Councilmember Present APPROVAL OF AGENDA Mayor Longrie moved to approve the agenda as amended. G1. Interim City Attorney M1. National Night Out M2. Data Practices M3. Dragon Festival M4. White Bear Avenue Parade M5. Tartan Ice Board M6. David Schultz Report M7. City Manager Investigation/Councilmembers Rossbach's Report Seconded by Councilmember Cave Ayes -All APPROVAL OF MINUTES Minutes from the June 26, 2006 Council/Manager Workshop Mayor Longrie moved to approve the minutes from the June 26, 2006 Council/Manager Workshop as presented. Seconded by Councilmember Cave Ayes -All 2. Minutes from the June 26, 2006 City Council Meeting Councilmember Cave moved to approve the minutes from the June 26, 2006 City Council Meeting as presented. Seconded by Mayor Longrie Ayes -All VISITOR PRESENTATIONS Bill Keyser, representing Evelyn Wallace, submitted a document to the Mayor and Councilmembers regarding the property at 2516 Linwood Avenue East. 07-10-06 City Council Meeting 2. John Jack Wadlund, 2950 Howard Court, (wife Theresa also in attendance) commented on a recent newspaper article displaying photos of "nice" properties and commented on the dangers of overpopulated housing. 3. Delores Kujawski, 2956 Howard Court, shared her concern regarding single family home owners renting their basements out for additional income. 4. Peter Fisher, 2443 Standridge Avenue, questioned the resignation of the City Attorney, and a data practices request made by Mayor Longrie. Mayor Longrie shared the nature of her request and detailed the procedure Interim City Manger Copeland followed issuing the request in the absence of the designated Responsible Authority who was on vacation. G. APPOINTMENTS/PRESENTATIONS Interim City Manager Copeland announced the resignation of the City Attorney Kelly and Fawcett and introduced H. Alan Kantrud, Knaak & Kantrud, who also is the attorney for the cities of Fridley and Newport. Mr. Kantrud was present to provide interim city attorney services for the meeting. H. PUBLIC HEARINGS Eldridge Avenue, Street and Utility Improvements for the Eldridge Fields Development, City Project 06-04 Public Hearing 7:00 pm Resolution Authorizing Preparation of Plans and Specifications a. City Engineer Ahl presented the report. b. Mayor Longrie opened the public hearing, calling for proponents or opponents. The following persons were heard: None Councilmember Rossbach moved to adopt the following resolution ordering the improvement of the Eldridae Avenue Street and Utilitv Improvements. (Four affirmative votes were reauired to approve this resolution): RESOLUTION 06-07-078 ORDERING IMPROVEMENT AFTER PUBLIC HEARING WHEREAS, a resolution of the city council adopted the 26th day of June, 2006, fixed a date for a council hearing on the proposed street improvements for the Eldridge Avenue Street and Utility Improvements for the Eldridge Fields Development, City Project 06-04. AND WHEREAS, ten days mailed notice and two weeks published notice of the hearing was given, and the hearing was duly held on July 10, 2006, and the council has heard all persons desiring to be heard on the matter and has fully considered the same; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF MAPLEWOOD, MINNESOTA, as follows: 1. That it is necessary, cost-effective and feasible, as detailed in the feasibility report, that the City of Maplewood make improvements to Eldridge Avenue Street and Utilities for the Eldridge Fields Development, City Project 06-04. 2. Such improvement of Eldridge Avenue is hereby ordered as proposed in the council resolution adopted the 10th day of June, 2006. 07-10-06 City Council Meeting 3. The city engineer is designated engineer for this improvement and is hereby directed to prepare final plans and specifications for the making of said improvement. 4. The finance director is hereby authorized to make the financial transfers necessary to implement the financing plan for the project. A project budget of $301,000.00 shall be established. The proposed financing plan is as follows: Assessments: Environmental Utility Fund: Seconded by Councilmember Juenemann I. CONSENT AGENDA $ 268,000 (89%) $ 33,000 (11%) Total: $ 301,000 (100%) Ayes -All Councilmember Rossbach moved to approve consent agenda items 1-4, 6-8, 10-11, and 13-14. Seconded by Councilmember Hjelle Ayes -All Councilmember Juenemann moved to approve consent agenda items 9 and 12. Seconded by Councilmember Hjelle Ayes -All 1. Approval of Claims ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: $ 240,240.61 Checks # 70235 thru # 70302 dated 06/22/06 thru 06/27/06 $ 3,243,369.55 Disbursements via debits to checking account dated 6/16/2006 thru 6/22/2006 $ 1,162,158.09 Checks # 70303 thru # 70358 dated 6/26/06 thru 07/05/06 $ 112,356.25 Disbursements via debits to checking account dated 06/23/06 thru 06/28/06 $ 4,758,124.50 Total Accounts Payable PAYROLL Payroll Checks and Direct Deposits dated $ 489, 852.48 06/30/06 $ 200.00 Payroll Deduction check #105472 dated 06/30/06 $ 490,052.48 Total Payroll $ 5,248,176.98 GRAND TOTAL 07-10-06 City Council Meeting 3 2. Resolution Authorizing Execution of Agreement—Safe & Sober Communities Grant Moved to adopt the following resolution entering into a grant agreement with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Office of Traffic Safety for the project entitled SAFE & SOBER COMMUNITIES during the period from October 1, 2006 through September 30, 2007: RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF AGREEMENT 06-7-079 Be it resolved that the Maplewood Police Department enter into a grant agreement with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Office of Traffic Safety for the project entitled SAFE & SOBER COMMUNITIES during the period from October 1, 2006 through September 30, 2007. The Chief of Police of the Maplewood Police Department is hereby authorized to execute such agreements and amendments as are necessary to implement the project on behalf of the Maplewood Police Department. Be it further resolved that the Sheriff of Ramsey County is hereby authorized to be the fiscal agent and administer this grant on behalf of the Maplewood Police Department. 3. Purchase of Cisco Firewall for Police Department Approved the purchase of the Cisco ASA 5520 device in the amount of $6,126.03 for the Police Department to comply with the requirements of the BCA. 4. July 4th Fireworks Bill Payment $10,000 Approved a payment of $10,000 for the July 4th fireworks to Melrose North Pyrotechnics, Inc. Item removed from agenda. 6. Applewood Park Playground Equipment $49,127.68 Approved the contract with Earl F. Anderson to purchase playground equipment including installation through U.S. Communities at a cost of $49,127.68 with the monies to be allocated from the park development fund as budgeted. 7. Sterling Oaks Playground Equipment Purchase $29,976.31 and Budget Transfer of $3,846.31 Awarded the contract for playground equipment for Sterling Oaks Park to Game Time Inc. in the amount to $29,976.31 with the monies to be allocated form the Park Development fund. Authorized the Finance Director to transfer $3,846.31 from the Applewood Park P.A.C. monies to cover the budgeted shortfall. 8. Budget Adjustment for Purchase of Asphalt Trailer Approved a budget adjustment be made to the Public Works miscellaneous revenue account (101-000-000-3633) and the Street Department capital outlay expense (101-502-000-4640) in the amount of $14,000.00 9. Annual Spring Clean -Up Event Summary Approved the following changes for the city clean-up events: Continue with the fall collection event in September/October at Gethsemane Church. 07-10-06 City Council Meeting • Continue to implement service fees (recommending no increase) for resident who utilize this service. • Reduce the hours for the 2007 Spring collection from 7:00 a.m. — 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m. • Continue to hold the spring collection event at Aldrich Arena in conjunction with Ramsey County's Household Hazardous Waste Collection Program. • Staff will evaluate the clean-up program after the 2006 fall collection and present updated findings to the City Council. 10. City Hall Campus Improvements — Stormwater Collection and Treatment Improvements for Public Works — Authorization of Payment for materials Authorized payment of $26,000 for materials for the construction of the stormwater collection and treatment system. 11. Budget Transfer Request — City Hall Air Conditioning Repair $23,160 Approved a budget transfer request for the City Hall Air Conditioning Repair in the amount of $23, 160 dollars to pay for the air conditioner compressor replacement. This transfer would be from the Contingency Fund to the General Fund #101-115-000-4430. 12. Malt Liquor License (Hicham Elarab) — McKnight Mart & Gas Approved the Malt Liquor License for Hicham Elarab for the McKnight Mart & Gas at 1690 McKnight Road. 13. Acceptance of National Night Out Donation from the Target Corporation Accepted the $100 donation on behalf of the Police Department from Target in support of the National Night Out event. 14. Tax -Exempt Revenue Note Financing Request — Regions Sleep Center (2688 Maplewood Drive North) $2.6 Million Adopted the following resolution calling for Maplewood to hold a public hearing on August 14, 2006 to consider approval for up to $2.6 million in tax exempt revenue financing for the Regions Sleep Health Clinic at 2688 Maplewood Drive: RESOLUTION NO. 06-07-082 RESOLUTION CALLING A PUBLIC HEARING FOR A HEALTH CARE FACILITY PROJECT PURSUANT TO THE MINNESOTA MUNICIPAL INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT ACT WHEREAS, (a) Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 469.152 to 469.1651 (the "Act") gives municipalities the power to issue revenue obligations for the purpose of providing necessary health care facilities so that adequate health care services are available to residents of the State at reasonable cost; (b) The Maplewood City Council (the "City") has received from Regions Hospital, a nonprofit corporation organized under the laws of the State of Minnesota (the "Borrower"), a proposal that City assist in financing a Project hereinafter described, through the issuance of a Revenue Note, referred to in this resolution as the "Revenue Note" or "Note", pursuant to the Act; (c) Before proceeding with consideration of the request of the Borrower it is necessary for the City to hold a public hearing on the proposal pursuant to the Act. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Maplewood, Minnesota as follows 07-10-06 City Council Meeting I . The Borrower has agreed and it is hereby determined that any and all costs incurred by the City in connection with the financing of the Project, whether or not the Project is carried to completion, whether or not approved by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development and whether or not the Revenue Note is issued by the City, will be paid by the Borrower; 2. Nothing in this resolution or in the documents prepared pursuant hereto shall authorize the expenditure of any municipal funds on the Project other than the revenues derived from the Project. The Revenue Note shall not constitute a charge, lien or encumbrance, legal or equitable, upon any property or funds of the City except the revenue and proceeds pledged to the payment thereof, nor shall the City be subject to any liability thereon. The holder of the Revenue Note shall never have the right to compel any exercise of the taxing power of the City to pay the outstanding principal on the Revenue Note or the interest thereon, or to enforce payment thereof against any property of the City. The Revenue Note shall recite in substance that the Revenue Note, including interest thereon, is payable solely from the revenue and proceeds pledged to the payment thereof. The Revenue Note shall not constitute a debt of the City within the meaning of any constitutional or statutory limitation; 3. A public hearing on the Project shall be held on August 14, 2006, pursuant to the notice of public hearing attached hereto as Exhibit A; 4. The City Clerk is hereby authorized to cause notice of the hearing to be given one publication in the official newspaper of the City or a newspaper of general circulation available in the City, not less than 14 days nor more than 30 days prior to the date fixed for the hearing and any actions previously taken with respect to such publication are hereby ratified. EXHIBIT A CITY OF MAPLEWOOD, MINNESOTA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE ISSUANCE OF REVENUE OBLIGATIONS Notice is hereby given that the City Council of the City of Maplewood, Minnesota (the "City") will meet at the City Hall, 1830 County Road B East, in Maplewood, Minnesota, on Monday, August 14, 2006, at 7:00 p.m., to hold a public hearing to consider the proposal of Regions Hospital, a Minnesota nonprofit corporation (the "Borrower"), that the City assist in financing a project hereinafter described pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Sections 469.152 to 469.1651, by the issuance of one or more revenue notes (the "Note"). The Project consists of the financing of the acquisition, construction and equipping of an approximately 7,000 square foot building located at 2688 Maplewood Drive, Maplewood, Minnesota 55109-1021 in the City, to be used as a sleep disorder clinic. The Borrower will be the initial owner and operator of the Project. The Project will be used to house the Borrower's operations providing services to persons with sleep disorders. The maximum aggregate estimated principal amount of the obligations to be issued to finance the project is $2,600,000. The obligations if and when issued will not constitute a charge, lien or encumbrance upon any property of the City, except the revenues of Project, and such obligations will not be a charge against the general credit or taxing powers of the City, but will be payable from sums to be paid by the Borrower pursuant to a revenue agreement. A draft copy of the proposed application to the Commissioner of the Department of Employment and Economic Development, State of Minnesota, for approval of the project, together with all attachments and exhibits thereto, is available for public inspection during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, at the City Hall in the City of Maplewood. At the time and place fixed for the Public Hearing, the City Council will give all persons who appear at the hearing an opportunity to express their views with respect to the proposal. J. AWARD OF BIDS None 07-10-06 City Council Meeting K. UNFINISHED BUSINESS Award of 2007 Charitable Gambling Funds a. Interim City Manager Copeland presented the report. b. Parks and Recreation Director Anderson explained the organizations that benefit from the Charitable Gambling funds for room rental at the Community Center. Councilmember Cave moved to award the remaining $654.00 to the Dispute Resolution Center. Seconded by Councilmember Hjelle Ayes -Mayor Longrie, Councilmembers Cave, Hjelle, and Juenemann Nays-Councilmember Rossbach Councilmember Rossbach voted nay due to the order of his allocation requests. Seconded by Councilmember Cave Ayes -All PF Gamllioo D61brliryHeaFiroo for -o-crlyz z 2006 3. Carver Crossing Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) (Carver Avenue and Henry Lane) a. City Engineer AN presented the report. b. Jon Horn, Kimley-Horn and Associates provided further specifics. C. The following persons were heard: 07-10-06 City Council Meeting Jeanne Witzig, Kimley-Horn and Associates Ron Cockriel, 943 Century Avenue, Maplewood Councilmember Rossbach moved to adopt the following resolution approving the negative declaration on the Environmental Assessment Worksheet for the Carver Crossing Development, Citv Project 05-07: RESOLUTION 06-07-080 APPROVING NEGATIVE DECLARATION Carver Crossing of Maplewood Project City of Maplewood, Minnesota WHEREAS, CoPar Development LLC is the proposer of the Carver Crossing of Maplewood Project; a senior housing development with up to 299 units on approximately 70 acres of land; and WHEREAS, the general boundaries of the Carver Crossing project can be described as about 702 acres of land to the west of 1-494 and south of Carver Avenue; and WHEREAS, the City of Maplewood is the Responsible Governmental Unit (RGU) pursuant to Minnesota Rules Part 4410.0500; and WHEREAS, the EAW was prepared using the form approved by the Minnesota Environmental Quality Board for EAWs in accordance with Minnesota Rules 4410.1300; and WHEREAS, in accordance with Minnesota Rules 4410.1500, the EAW was completed and distributed to all persons and agencies on the official Environmental Quality Board distribution list; and WHEREAS, the notification of the EAW was published in the Minnesota EQB Monitor on March 13, 2006; and WHEREAS, the public review and comment period remained open until April 12, 2006; and WHEREAS, a public informational meeting was held for the project on March 30, 2006, in the City of Maplewood; and WHEREAS, the comments on the EAW were received and responded to; and WHEREAS, the draft Findings of Fact/Response to Comments document was reviewed at the May 15, 2006, City of Maplewood Planning Commission meeting: and WHEREAS, the draft Findings of Fact/Response to Comments document reviewed by the Planning Commission has been revised to reflect clarification/revisions to specific impact analyses; and WHEREAS, the City of Maplewood Planning Commission recommended a Negative Declaration determination for the proposed action evaluated in the EAW; and WHEREAS, the proposed project under evaluation in this EAW reflects a worst case level of analysis in terms of density of residential development; and WHEREAS, the record considered by the City Council for purposes of its decision herein consists of the EAW, related reports and analysis, the comments received thereon, and the responses to such comments, all of which are incorporated herein and made a part of this decision; and WHEREAS, the proposed development will undergo subsequent reviews and required approvals associated with permits identified in this document; and 07-10-06 City Council Meeting WHEREAS, the City of Maplewood will work with the developer to determine the feasibility and the effectiveness of additional noise mitigation to the west of 1-494; NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Maplewood, acting with respect to the Environmental Assessment Worksheet for the Carver Crossing Project of Maplewood, that it finds and concludes the following: 1. The EAW was prepared in compliance with the procedures of the Minnesota Policy Act and Minnesota Rules, Parts 4410.1000 to 4410.1700; and 2. The EAW satisfactorily addressed all of the issues for which existing information could have been reasonably obtained; and 3. The Findings of Fact contained in Exhibit A (attached) are made; and 4. Based on criteria established in Minnesota Rules 4410.1700, and the Findings of Fact, the Project does not have a potential for significant environmental effects; and 5. An Environmental Impact Statement is not required, and the City of Maplewood therefore makes a "Negative Declaration". Seconded by Councilmember Juenemann L. NEW BUSINESS Ayes-Councilmembers Hjelle, Juenemann and Rossbach Nays -Mayor Longrie and Councilmember Cave Intoxicating Liquor License Change of Owner/Manager — Nicholas Schwartz - Bleecher's Bar and Grill a. REaL Director Guilfoile presented the report. b. The applicant Nicholas Schwartz was present for council questions. Councilmember Cave moved to approve the intoxicating liquor license Change of Owner/Manager for Nicholas Schwartz for Bleecher's Bar and Grill. Seconded by Councilmember Rossbach Ayes -All 2. 5-8 Club Expansion (2289 Minnehaha Avenue) Comprehensive Plan Amendment (R-1 to BC -M) (4 votes) Zoning Map Change (R-1 to BC -M) (4 votes) Conditional Use Permit Revision Design Approval a. Planner Roberts presented the report. b. Commissioner Fisher presented the Planning Commission Report. C. Boardmember Ledvina presented the Design Review Board Report. d. The applicant Jill Skogheim was present for council questions. e. The following persons were heard: Jim Beardsley, 2311 Minnehaha Avenue, Maplewood Councilmember Cave moved to adopt the comprehensive land use plan amendment resolution changing the comprehensive land use plan from single dwelling residential (R-1) to business commercial (modified) (BC -M) for the expansion of the 5-8 Tavern and Grill parking lot onto an existin 07-10-06 City Council Meeting COMPREHENSIVE LAND USE PLAN CHANGE RESOLUTION 06-07-083 WHEREAS, Jill Skogheim of the 5-8 Tavern and Grill made application to the City of Maplewood for a change to the city's comprehensive land use plan from single dwelling residential (R-1) to business commercial (modified) (BC -M) for the expansion of the restaurant's parking lot. WHEREAS, this change applies to 2303 Minnehaha Avenue, Maplewood, Minnesota. WHEREAS, the legal description of this property is: South %2 of Lot 16, Minnehaha Suburban Heights. WHEREAS, the history of this change is as follows: On June 19, 2006, the planning commission held a public hearing. City staff published a hearing notice in the Maplewood Review and sent notices to the surrounding property owners. The planning commission conducted the public hearing whereby all public present were given a chance to speak and present written statements. The planning commission recommended that the city council approve the plan amendments. 2. On July 10, 2006, the city council discussed the land use plan changes. They considered reports and recommendations from the planning commission and city staff. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the city council approve the above-described land use plan change for the following reasons: This site is proper for and consistent with the city's policies for commercial use. This includes: a. Require adequate off-street parking and loading facilities. b. Avoid disruption of adjacent or nearby residential areas. C. Require commercial developers to make all necessary improvements to ensure compatibility with surrounding residential uses. d. Require adequate screening or buffering of new or expanded commercial areas from any adjacent existing or planned residential development. 2. This development will minimize any adverse effects on surrounding properties because: a. Expansion of the parking area will supply adequate off-street parking and loading facilities for the site. b. The parking lot will be designed in the best manner to avoid disruption of adjacent or nearby residential areas including locating the parking lot 20 feet from the residential property to the east and installing a 6 -foot high privacy fence along all shared residential property lines. Seconded by Councilmember Hjelle Ayes -All Councilmember Cave moved to adopt the rezoning resolution changing the zoning map from single dwelling residential (R-1) to business commercial (modified) (BC -M) for the expansion of the 5-8 Tav and Grill oarkina lot onto an existina sinale-familv lot at 2303 Minnehaha Avenue: ZONING MAP CHANGE RESOLUTION 06-07-084 WHEREAS, Jill Skogheim of the 5-8 Tavern and Grill has proposed the following change to the City of Maplewood's zoning map: single dwelling residential (R-1) to business commercial (modified) (BC -M). WHEREAS, this change applies to 2303 Minnehaha Avenue, Maplewood, Minnesota. WHEREAS, the legal description of this property is: South %2 of Lot 16, Minnehaha Suburban Heights. WHEREAS, the history of this change is as follows: 07-10-06 City Council Meeting 10 On June 19, 2006, the planning commission held a public hearing. City staff published a hearing notice in the Maplewood Review and sent notices to the surrounding property owners. The planning commission conducted the public hearing whereby all public present were given a chance to speak and present written statements. The planning commission recommended that the city council approve the rezoning. 2. On July 10, 2006, the city council discussed the rezoning. They considered reports and recommendations from the planning commission and city staff. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the city council approve the above-described change in the zoning map for the following reasons: 1. The proposed change is consistent with the spirit, purpose and intent of the zoning code. 2. The proposed change will not substantially injure or detract from the use of neighboring property or from the character of the neighborhood, and that the use of the property adjacent to the area included in the proposed change or plan is adequately safeguarded. 3. The proposed change will serve the best interests and conveniences of the community, where applicable, and the public welfare. 4. The proposed change would have no negative effect upon the logical, efficient, and economical extension of public services and facilities, such as public water, sewers, police and fire protection and schools. 5. The proposed change is supported by a majority of the neighbors surveyed. 6. The applicant is proposing to use the property in question for a commercial parking lot and not for residential purposes. Seconded by Mayor Longrie Ayes -All Councilmember Juenemann moved to adopt the conditional use permit resolution approving two conditional use permit for the 5-8 Tavern and Grill at 2289 and 2303 Minnehaha Avenue: CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT RESOLUTION 06-07-085 WHEREAS, Jill Skogheim of the 5-8 Tavern and Grill applied for two conditional use permits including: Expansion of a restaurant within the business commercial (modified) (BC -M) zoning district. 2. Expansion of a nonconforming parking lot (20 -foot setback from residential property required, 5 -foot setback proposed). WHEREAS, this permit applies to property located at 2289 and 2303 Minnehaha Avenue, Maplewood, Minnesota. The legal description is: Minnehaha Suburb Heights: Subject to the highway, the E 60' of Lot 13, the S 148.5' of Lot 14, and the S %2 of Lot 15, the S %2 of Lot 16, Minnehaha Suburban Heights. WHEREAS, the history of this conditional use permit is as follows: On June 19, 2006, the planning commission held a public hearing. City staff published a hearing notice in the Maplewood Review and sent notices to the surrounding property owners. The planning commission conducted the public hearing whereby all public present were given a chance to speak and present written statements. The planning commission recommended that the city council approve the conditional use permits. 07-10-06 City Council Meeting 11 2. On July 10, 2006, the city council discussed the conditional use permits. They considered reports and recommendations from the planning commission and city staff. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the city council approves the above-described conditional use permits based on the building and site plans. The city approved this permit because: The use would not change the existing or planned character of the surrounding area. 2. The use would not depreciate property values. 3. The use would not involve any activity, process, materials, equipment or methods of operation that would be dangerous, hazardous, detrimental, disturbing or cause a nuisance to any person or property, because of excessive noise, glare, smoke, dust, odor, fumes, water or air pollution, drainage, water runoff, vibration, general unsightliness, electrical interference or other nuisances. 4. The use would generate only minimal vehicular traffic on local streets and would not create traffic congestion or unsafe access on existing or proposed streets. 5. The use would be served by adequate public facilities and services, including streets, police and fire protection, drainage structures, water and sewer systems, schools and parks. 6. The use would not create excessive additional costs for public facilities or services. 7. The use would cause minimal adverse environmental effects. Approval of the two conditional use permits is subject to the following conditions: All construction of the 5-8 Club shall follow the site plan approved by the city. The director of community development may approve minor changes. 2. The parking lot expansion shall comply with all city engineering requirements as defined in the June 9, 2006, engineering review. 3. The proposed parking lot expansion must be substantially started within one year of council approval or the permit shall become null and void. The city council may extend this deadline for one year. 4. Remove snow from the parking lot as needed. 5. The city council shall review this permit in one year. Seconded by Councilmember Hjelle Ayes -All Councilmember Rossbach moved t and Grill (2289 Minnehaha Avenue dans based on a. Repeat this review in two years if the city has not issued a building permit for this project. b. Prior to issuance of a grading permit for the parking lot expansion the applicant must submit the following for staff approval: 1) Revised grading and drainage plan showing the relocation of the driveway to the west, in line with the first drive aisle. The grading and drainage plan must be approved by the city engineering department and must comply with all requirements as specified in the June 9, 2006, engineering review. 07-10-06 City Council Meeting 12 2) Revised site plan showing the following: a) Relocation of the fence seven feet from the east property line. b) Relocation of the driveway to the west, in line with the first drive aisle. C) All new parking stalls 18 feet deep. d) Reduction in the new drive aisles to 20 and 19.5 feet wide and posting the drive aisles as one-way traffic with arrows and signs. e) Replacement curbing (to match existing) along Minnehaha Avenue from the west side of the existing driveway entrance up to west side of the new driveway entrance. 3) Fence elevations showing style, height, materials, and color; and also specifications on which portions, if any, of the existing fence will remain. 4) Revised landscape plan showing the following: a) Sizes of all proposed plants. b) A detailed plan of the plantings on the west side of the fence to include at least 1 tree and 18 shrubs. C) A detailed plan of the plantings on the east side of the fence to be approved by the property owner of 2311 Minnehaha Avenue prior to planting. d) A detailed plan of the plantings proposed in the rainwater garden. e) A detailed plan for the area north of the Stillwater Road driveway to include hearty plants and/or decorative boulders. f) The replacement of all dead or unhealthy plants previously required. g) The location of all sprinkler heads for the required underground irrigation system (code required). h) In addition to the above, all common grounds shall be sodded (except for mulched and edged planting beds). 5) A revised photometrics plan showing the light illumination from all exterior lights not exceeding .4 foot candles at all property lines. 6) Obtain a permit from the Ramsey County Public Works Department for the relocation of the Minnehaha Avenue driveway. 7) Obtain a permit, if required, from the Ramsey Washington Metro Watershed District for the grading of the expanded parking lot. 8) Submit a cash escrow or an irrevocable letter of credit for all required exterior improvements. The amount shall be 150 percent of the cost of the work. C. Prior to final inspection of the expanded parking lot by the city the applicant must: 1) Complete all required exterior improvements including parking lot, screening fence, landscaping, underground irrigation, and exterior lighting. 07-10-06 City Council Meeting 13 2) Repair all portions of the existing fence (unless a new fence is installed) that are broken or loose. At a minimum, the applicant must replace the existing fence located on the east property line. 3) Stain the existing fence (unless a new fence is installed) and the patio boards to match the new fence. 4) Install the required replacement curb along Minnehaha Avenue. 5) Replace any property irons removed because of this construction. d. All work shall follow the approved plans. The director of community development may approve minor changes. Seconded by Councilmember Hjelle Ayes -All Councilmember Juenemann moved to direct staff to implement no parking restrictions on Minnehaha Avenue near the establishment. Seconded by Councilmember Cave Ayes -All A recess was taken until 10:00 p.m. 3. Legacy Village Townhomes (County Road D and Kennard Street) Comprehensive Plan Amendment (BC to R -3(H)) (4 votes) PUD Revision Preliminary Plat Design Approval a. Senior Planner Ekstrand presented the report. b. City Engineer AN provided further specifics from the report. C. Planning Commission Fisher presented the Planning Commission report. d. Boardmember Ledvina presented the Design Review Board Report. e. Frank Janes, Harford Group was present for council questions. Councilmember Rossbach moved to deny the comprehensive land use plan amendment from BC (business Commercial) to R3H (high density residential) for a 1 %2 acre parcel planned or an office building in Legacy Village and to deny the PUD revision to allow townhomes on this site. Seconded by Councilmember Juenemann Ayes -All 4. Conditional Use Permit Revision — Liberty Classical Academy (2696 Hazelwood Street) a. Planner Roberts presented the report, b. Rebecca Hagstrom, Director of Liberty Classical Academy, was present for council questions. C. Planning Commissioner Fisher provided the Planning Commission Report. Councilmember Rossbach moved to adopt the followina resolution revisina and extendina the time fo revision adds a school to the approved uses (the church ar permit revision on the findings required by the code and su are underlined and deleted words are crossed out): care). Maplewood bases this followina conditions (new words 07-10-06 City Council Meeting 14 CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT REVISION RESOLUTION 06-07-086 WHEREAS, First Evangelical Free Church and Liberty Classical Academy applied for a revision of the conditional use permit for a PUD to add a school as a land use to the building at 2696 Hazelwood Street that now has a church and day-care; WHEREAS, the PUD now includes the 75 -unit, Hazel Ridge Seniors' Residence, a church and a day care center; WHEREAS, this permit applies to 2696 and 2730 Hazelwood Street. The legal descriptions are: PLAT 03031 SECTION 3 TOWN 29 RANGE 22. PART OF N 800 FT OF S 1310 FT OF W 578 FT OF SE'/4 DESC AS BEG ON EL THEREOF 458.6 FT N OF SE COR THEREOF TH N ON SD EL 341.4 FT TH N 88 DEG 55 MIN 02 SEC W 578 FT TH S 133 FT TH S 88 DEG 55 MIN 02 SEC E 33 FT TH S 70 DEG 45 MIN 30 SEC E 208.85 FT TH S 40 DEG E 97.65 FT TH S 69.67 FT TH S 88 DEG 55 MIN 02 SEC E 285 FT TO BEG (SUBJ TO HAZELWOOD AVE) IN SEC 3 TN 29 RN 22. (PID 03-29-22-43-0007) 2. PLAT 03031 SECTION 3 TOWN 29 RANGE 22. PART OF N 800 FT OF S 1310 FT OF W 578 FT OF SE'/4 DESC AS BEG ON EL THEREOF 458.6 FT N OF SE COR THEREOF TH S ON SD EL 458.6 FT TH N 88 DEG 55 MIN 02 SEC W 578 FT TH N 667 FT TH S 88 DEG 55 MIN 02 SEC E 33 FT TH S 70 DEG 45 MIN 30 SEC E 208.85 FT TH S 40 DEG E 97.65 FT TH S 69.67 FT TH S 88 DEG 55 MIN 02 SEC E 285 FT TO BEG (SUBJ TO HAZELWOOD AVE & ESMT) IN SEC 3 TN 29 RN 22. (PID 03-39-33-43-0008) WHEREAS, the history of this conditional use permit is as follows: 1. On June 19, 2006, the planning commission held a public hearing. The city staff published a notice in the paper and sent notices to the surrounding property owners. The planning commission gave persons at the hearing a chance to speak and present written statements. The commission also considered reports and recommendations of the city staff. The planning commission recommended that the city council approve the conditional use permit. 2. On July 10, 2006, the city council discussed the proposed conditional use permit. They considered reports and recommendations from the planning commission and city staff. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the city council approve the above-described conditional use permit, because: The use would be located, designed, maintained, constructed and operated to be in conformity with the city's comprehensive plan and code of ordinances. 2. The use would not change the existing or planned character of the surrounding area. 3. The use would not depreciate property values. 4. The use would not involve any activity, process, materials, equipment or methods of operation that would be dangerous, hazardous, detrimental, disturbing or cause a nuisance to any person or property, because of excessive noise, glare, smoke, dust, odor, fumes, water or air pollution, drainage, water run-off, vibration, general unsightliness, electrical interference or other nuisances. 5. The use would generate only minimal vehicular traffic on local streets and would not create traffic congestion or unsafe access on existing or proposed streets. 6. The use would be served by adequate public facilities and services, including streets, police and fire protection, drainage structures, water and sewer systems, schools and parks. 07-10-06 City Council Meeting 15 7. The use would not create excessive additional costs for public facilities or services. 8. The use would maximize the preservation of and incorporate the site's natural and scenic features into the development design. 9. The use would cause minimal adverse environmental effects. Approval is subject to the following conditions: 1. All construction shall follow the plans that the City stamped July 24, 1995, subject to the following conditions: a. All construction shall follow the site plan approved by the city and the school shall follow the building and floor plans submitted to the city. The Interim Director of Community Development may approve minor changes. The City Council may approve major changes. b. Dropping the two parking spaces along the south property line at the east end of the parking lot. 2. The proposed school use on the property parking lot expansion construction must be started within one year after the council approves this revised permit or the permit shall end. The Council may extend this deadline for one year. 3. The council shall review this permit revision in one year. 4. The school shall have no more than 500 students. 5. The property owner or manager shall sweep and restripe the parking lot before the school occupies their space. This shall include having the required handicapped parking spaces in the parking area near the building entrance. 6. The school, the church, the fire marshal and the city building official shall agree on a plan for the school and the church to make any necessary or required life safety and building improvements to the building. This plan shall include the installation and maintenance of: a. The required fire protection (sprinkler) systems. b. An early warning fire protection system (smoke detection and monitoring). c. Additional emergency lights and exit signs (if necessary). d. Updated doors and hardware (if necessary). e. A proper address on the building. f. Any other changes the fire marshal or the building official deem necessary. Seconded by Mayor Longrie Ayes -All 5. Desoto/Skillman Area Street Improvements, City Project 06-16: Resolution Ordering Preparation of Feasibility Study a. City Engineer Ahl presented the report. Councilmember Hjelle moved to adopt the following resolution ordering the preparation of the feasibility study for the Desoto -Skillman Area Street Improvements, Project 06-16: RESOLUTION 06-07-087 ORDERING PREPARATION OF A FEASIBILITY STUDY WHEREAS, it is proposed to make improvements to the Desoto -Skillman Area Streets, City Project 06-16, and to assess the benefited property for all or a portion of the cost of the improvement, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 429, 07-10-06 City Council Meeting 16 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF MAPLEWOOD, MINNESOTA: That the proposed improvement be referred to the city engineer for study and that he is instructed to report to the council with all convenient speed advising the council in a preliminary way as to whether the proposed improvement is necessary, cost effective and feasible and as to whether it should best be made as proposed or in connection with some other improvement, and the estimated cost of the improvement as recommended. FURTHERMORE, funds in the amount of $40,000 are appropriated to prepare this feasibility report. Seconded by Councilmember Juenemann Ayes -All Councilmember Rossbach moved to proceed until all agenda items were addressed. Motion died for lack of a second. Mayor Longrie moved to waive the rules of city council meeting policies and procedures for continuation of a City Council meeting. Seconded by Councilmember Cave Ayes -All Mayor Longrie moved to address the remaining agenda items at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 12tH Seconded by Councilmember Hjelle Ayes -All Mayor Longrie adjourned the meeting at 11:12 p.m. CONTINUATION OF MEETING MAPLEWOOD CITY COUNCIL 5:00 P.M. Wednesday, July 12, 2006 Council Chambers, City Hall Meeting No. 06-18 6. Authority to Apply to the Met Council for a Livable Communities Grant for Gladstone Redevelopment a. City Engineer Ahl presented the report. Councilmember Rossbach moved to adopt the following resolution providing project direction and authorization to submit a livable communities arant application to the metropolitan council: RESOLUTION NO. 06-07-081 A RESOLUTION PROVIDING PROJECT DIRECTION AND AUTHORIZATION TO SUBMIT A LIVABLE COMMUNITIES GRANT APPLICATION TO THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL WHEREAS, in March 2004, the Maplewood City Council established a top priority to be the redevelopment of the Gladstone area; and, WHEREAS, in December of 2004, the City of Maplewood initiated a redevelopment planning process for the Gladstone area generally defined as the area along Frost Avenue between US Highway 61 and Hazelwood Street N and the area along English Street between Ripley Avenue and the Gateway Trail; and, WHEREAS, the City has an approved Comprehensive Plan that establishes future land use patterns in the Gladstone area consisting of open space, single and double dwelling residential, light manufacturing and 07-10-06 City Council Meeting 17 business commercial and that addresses public facilities and implementation strategies; and, WHEREAS, the Gladstone area contains a number of older commercial uses and parcels that demonstrate signs of obsolescence, inefficient land use and site layout and other signs of a need for revitalization; and, WHEREAS, the City is aware of a number of properties within the project area that are likely to redevelop in the near future and the desired development patterns are not likely to be consistent with the current Comprehensive Plan; and, WHEREAS, in January 2005, the City Council established a 20 -person Task Force of property owners and local residents to provide recommendations to the City Council on various alternatives; and, WHEREAS, the master planning effort has provided a plan that establishes a vision and future land use plan to guide redevelopment efforts on an area wide basis as opposed to reacting to individual redevelopment proposals; and, WHEREAS, the master planning effort has resulted in a concept that explores higher density housing development on redeveloped parcels within the project area and limited neighborhood commercial uses; and, WHEREAS, the development concept is supported by a range of public improvements to area park and open space systems, roadway improvements, streetscape enhancements, burial of overhead utility lines, and storm water management systems; and, WHEREAS, on August 8, 2005, the Maplewood City Council adopted a resolution directing the preparation of an Alternative Urban Areawide Review (AUAR), which is a substitute form of environmental review that replaces an Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) or Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) as provided for in Minnesota Rules Chapter 4410.3600 and is a more appropriate form of environmental review that evaluates cumulative impacts resulting from multiple re -development projects spread over a larger area; and, WHEREAS, over the last two years the City has conducted a number of public meetings to discuss and evaluate various redevelopment concepts as presented by private developers, neighborhood groups and interested landowners, including conducting a Public Hearing on April 18, 2006; and, WHEREAS, the City Council has provided comments and questions on the Draft Master Plan and conducted two Work Sessions to discuss and debate the merits of the overall development plan. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the City Council of the City of Maplewood, County of Ramsey, State of Minnesota, hereby provides for the following: 1. Authorize staff to develop a Planning Document based upon a revised Master Planning Document for the Gladstone Redevelopment Initiative at the flowing development levels and public improvement investment: Business Retention Work with Gladstone businesses to encourage them to remain in the neighborhood after redevelopment begins Do so by promoting loans and grants available for business owners. Development on the Savanna Do not allow any building development—only natural development with minimal historic public structures. Improvements to the Savanna should be one of the first public improvements made in the neighborhood Efforts should be made to explore conservation easements or other legal forms to protect this parcel for future generations and until such protections are in place, no sale of Savanna or park land shall occur as part of the Gladstone project. 07-10-06 City Council Meeting 18 Savanna Improvements Only natural improvements should be allowed. This includes savanna restoration as a natural open space. Flicek Park Improvements Make limited changes to Flicek Park. Any changes to Flicek Park will be enacted by the council based upon recommendations of the parks commission and park -planning staff. Culvert/ Bebo Improvements Modify the plan so that it includes other options for a pedestrian/storm water system in this area including enhanced pedestrian and bicycle safety at the roundabout and trail intersections. The bebo should be considered optional for consideration later and is not specifically included as part of the overall project plan. Density The allowed density shall be a maximum of 650 housing units. This can only be achieved based on a system of to -be -established density bonuses and project goals. The minimum density established shall be based upon the existing land -use and zoning within the area. The density bonuses and project goals shall focus on providing credits to developments which provide increased Senior Housing, Senior Assisted Living Housing, Accessible Senior Housing, Underground Parking and green building construction as the primary target focus points. Building Height Issues In general, lower buildings are required when they are closer to the street. They can go higher as the building mass is further set back, up to four stories. Buildina Setback. Massina and Scale Issues Identical to building height criteria—buildings with greater mass should be set further back to be less imposing from street view. Care should be taken to "blend" the scale of the new buildings with the existing. Power Line Burial Support for the burial of power lines at a reduced cost or alternative financing methods. Eminent Domain There is no support for the use of eminent domain to achieve project goals Level of Public Improvements–Frost Avenue Improvement The likely investment will range to a maximum of $14 million to $15 million in public installed improvements, although efforts shall be explored to have the developers install as much of the infrastructure as practical. The goals shall include reduction or removal from the Master Plan in the amount of center median along Frost Avenue, using trees to create a colonnade along Frost Avenue and making Frost Avenue narrower by use of restriping. Limited use of irrigation systems is encouraged. The Roundabout at Frost Avenue and East Shore Drive should be explored further to see if other alternatives might be more effective. The priority for improvements shall be Savanna upgrades. 07-10-06 City Council Meeting 19 Phase I of the Gladstone project shall focus improvements on the western end of the project area and shall include improvement to the transportation and drainage components of the project. This shall include exploration of improvements to bus service within the area, the installation of improvements to facilitate the construction of bus shelters, a possible roundabout at Frost Avenue and East Shore Drive, improvements to the TH 61 and Frost intersection, area trail connections and improvements, the existing Frost Avenue bridge and the drainage improvements on the western end of the project, along with possible Savanna improvements. The value of these improvements is hereby authorized up to a maximum of $2.5 million. The City Engineer is hereby directed to prepare a feasibility analysis of a project to this amount. Use of Tax Increment Financin The goals of the project shall be to limit or eliminate the use of Tax Increment Financing. The Phase I — Gladstone project improvements shall be explored with a goal of using zero Tax Increment Financing. The direction shall be to explore alternative financing through grants and development contributions through assessment and project payments. 2. Authorize the staff to prepare and submit a Livable Communities Demonstration Grant Application to the Metropolitan Council prior to the due date of July 17, 2006. 3. Authorize the Public Works Director to assemble an Implementation Team which shall include the City Park and Recreation Director, the City Finance Director, the City Senior Planner, the City Planner, the consultant Master Planner and the consultant Engineer to develop the following reports and plans: A. A Prioritized Public Improvement Plan, including a suggested timing schedule for implementation based upon a 3-5 year project build out. B. A Prioritized Development Plan, including a listing of potential development parcels that potentially provided for the first project within the Development Area based upon the TIF District and Public Improvement Plan. C. A Preliminary Planning and Zoning Analysis that provides an evaluation of the land -use and zoning needs to achieve the provisions of the Planning Document. 4. Appropriate $50,000 to the Gladstone Project Fund from future project revenues to pay for the Planning Consultant, Engineering Consultant and Financial Advisory Consultant noted above within the Implementation Team. The Public Works Director is hereby authorized to administer the contracts for said consultants up to the $50,000 maximum. Seconded by Mayor Longrie Ayes -All M. COUNCIL PRESENTATIONS National Night Out Councilmember Juenemann encouraged all residents to participate in National Night Out on August 1, 2006. Further information is available on the city website. 2. Data Practices Councilmember Rossbach stated concerns regarding potential exposure to liability during the processing of a data practices request made by Mayor Longrie and issued by Interim City Manager Copeland. Mr. Rossbach asked specific questions of Mayor Longrie and Interim City Manger Copeland as to the process that was followed. 07-10-06 City Council Meeting 20 City Clerk Guilfoile, Responsibility Authority for the city, read a statement into the record. 3. Dragon Festival Councilmember Cave shared the success of the Dragon Festival which was held at Phalen Lake and Park July 8 -9th. Councilmember Cave shared her disappointment in what she felt was a lack of support from other councilmembers for the preservation of open space in reference to the Carver EAW. 4. White Bear Avenue Parade Councilmember Hjelle confirmed Councilmembers would not be riding on fire trucks in the White Bear Avenue parade. 5. Tartan Ice Board Councilmember Hjelle announced he and Councilmember Cave attended the last meeting of the Tartan Ice Board and will be bringing forward a few issues to the council in the near future (i.e. zamboni purchase). 6. David Schultz Report Councilmember Hjelle shared concerns and disappointment with Mr. David Schultz's "gossip column". Councilmember Hjelle questioned the status of various pending legal issues. 7. City Manager Investigation/Councilmembers Rossbach's Report Councilmember Hjelle questioned the attempt to distribute the summary report on the internal background investigation of Interim City Manager Copeland. Also, the attempt to distribute a report prepared by Councilmember Rossbach regarding the same. Councilmember Hjelle stated that he had not accepted or reviewed either report N. ADMINISTRATIVE PRESENTATIONS Report on Enhanced Code Enforcement Program Interim Community Development Director Fisher provided an update on the improvements and progress of the Enhanced Code Enforcement Program. 2. Report on Unified Building Maintenance Program Due to time constraints, this item tabled to a future meeting. 3. Transition Period to Seek Legal Counsel Interim City Manager Copeland updated council on the transition to seek legal counsel. Kelly & Fawcett will continue to provide prosecutorial services until new counsel is ascertained. The RFP (Request for Proposal) progress has begun, with a goal set of 45 days to appoint a new City Attorney. Councilmember Cave moved to accept the resignation of Kelly & Fawcett and to appoint Knaak & Kantrud as the civil Interim City Attorney. 07-10-06 City Council Meeting 21 Seconded by Councilmember Hjelle Ayes -All Mayor Longrie moved to retain Kelly & Fawcett as the City Attorney during the transition period as prosecutorial counsel for the city until the RFP process is completed. Seconded by Councilmember Hjelle Ayes -All O. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Longrie adjourned at 7:00 p.m. 07-10-06 City Council Meeting 22 Memorandum To: Maplewood City Council From: The Owners of 2516 Linwood Avenue East Date: July 10, 2006 RE: Dahl.Avenue, Street and Utility Improvements for Woodhill Development, City Project 05-10 On September 28, 2005, you requested your ex -attorney's (Patrick Kelly) opinion on ownership issues affecting certain property legally described as: The West Quarter of the Northeast quarter of the Northwest Quarter of the Northeast Quarter and the Northwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter of the Northeast Quarter (subject to road) all in Section 13, Township 28, Range 22, Ramsey County, Minnesota. Said property was to be assessed in conjunction with the above -referenced project. The parties requesting said assessments and project do not (and did not) own this property. BACKGROUND October 17, 2005, David Ramberg sent a memorandum (See Attachment A) to Maplewood's Director of Public Works, Chuck Ahl. That memo contained many lies and half-truths that were designed to misinform Mr. Ahl as to the true nature of the ownership of the subject property. On November 3, 2005, Chuck Ahl sent a memorandum (see Attachment B) to Maplewood's City Manager, Richard Fursman. That memo resulted in the circulation of Ramberg's misinformation in his October 17th memo to the remainder of Maplewood's staff. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Proof that Evelyn Wallace owns the subject property is on file with Ramsey County, and it has been on file with Ramsey County for many years. (See Attachment C) If your ex -city attorney had truly wished to see who actually owned that property, the records of the Ramsey County Recorder are (and were) open for anyone to see. By refusing to perform the task of looking at the public records, Patrick Kelly performed a severe disservice for Maplewood. SUMMARY The incompetent and/or unlawful actions of Maplewood's ex -city attorney (Patrick Kelly) have placed Maplewood in a dangerous position wherein the entire city staff is in danger of becoming accessories to his misdeeds and/or crimes. Immediate remedial action is thus demanded. ATTACHMENT A ANNOTATED MEMORANDUM DATED OCTOBER 179 2005 FROM DAVID RAMBERG TO CHUCK AHL In this document, added comments to the original text are inside brackets [ ] and are in bold type. While reading this memo, be aware of the following facts: 1. From 1952 to this very day, The Ramsey County Recorder has always shown Evelyn Wallace to be the owner of 2516 Linwood in Maplewood, and she held this property in Joint Tenancy With Right of Survivorship (JTWRS) with James Kayser at the time of his death on June 3, 2003. 2. The Estate of James Kayser never contested Wallace's JTWRS status. 3. Since JTWRS property passes outside of Probate, the will of James Kayser meant nothing. 4. Since Evelyn Wallace was never involved in the Probate proceedings, they meant nothing. MEMORANDUM To: Chuck AN From: Dave Ramberg Date: October 17, 2005 RE: Dahl Avenue, Street and Utility Improvements for Woodhill Development, City Project 05-10 On September 28, 2005, you requested our opinion on ownership issues affecting certain property legally described as: The West Quarter of the Northeast quarter of the Northwest Quarter of the Northeast Quarter and the Northwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter of the Northeast Quarter (subject to road) all in Section 13, Township 28, Range 22, Ramsey County, Minnesota. Said property is to be assessed in conjunction with the above -referenced project. This property has been the subject of multiple lawsuits initiated by or on behalf of, Evelyn Wallace and her two children William Kayser and Nancy Lazaryan.I It is our opinion that Benchmark Companies owns the property and that the progeny of lawsuits challenging its ownership is without merit. [Ramberg makes this statement while ignoring the fact that the Ramsey County Recorder lists Evelyn Wallace as the fee owner of said property.] BACKGROUND On January 9, 2001, James H. Kayser executed his last will and testament. In his will, James Kayser devised 60% of the residue of his estate to his spouse, Jesusa Kayser, and 40% of the residue to his two minor children, Karen and Kenneth Kayser. James Kayser "specifically disinherited all other parties not specifically named" in his will. This group of disinherited parties included, among others, Nancy Lazaryan and William Kayser. James Kayser died on June 3, 2003. An application for informal probate of the will followed. Nancy Lazaryan and William Kayser objected, arguing that decedent lacked testamentary capacity. Special administrator Ronald Riach moved for summary judgment. In May 2004, the district court granted his motion on some of the issues but denied his motion on the issue of testamentary capacity. 1 Evelyn Wallace is a former spouse of James Kayser. William Kayser and Nancy Lazaryan are their children from that marriage. The three paragraphs describing what occurred are taken from the recent Appellate Court decision of Estate of James H. Kayser, Decedent, A04-1910 (Minn. Ct. App. June 28, 2005), review denied (Minn. Aug. 24, 2005). Sometime before June 16, 2004, the locks on decedent's homestead were changed and "no trespassing" signs were posted on decedent's property. On June 17, 2004, Evelyn Wallace faxed Riach a letter claiming that she had taken possession of decedent's homestead. The next day, the district court granted Riach's request for a temporary restraining order prohibiting Wallace and [Nancy Lazaryan and William Kayser] from entering decedent's homestead. After a hearing, the district court issued a temporary injunction prohibiting Wallace, [Nancy Lazaryan and William Kayser], or their agents from entering decedent's homestead. Within a day or two after the issuance of the temporary injunction, [Nancy Lazaryan and William Kayser] or their agents returned to decedent's property and again changed the locks. On July 1, 2004, Wallace and Nancy Lazaryan and William Kayser filed a lawsuit against the Ramsey County district court judge who had presided over the probate proceedings; Riach; and several other parties; alleging various violations of state law in connection with the issuance of the temporary injunction against Wallace and Nancy Lazaryan and William Kayser2. That same day, Nancy Lazaryan and William Kayser filed a request to remove the judge from the probate proceedings. Their request ultimately was denied for failure to affirmatively show prejudice. At trial in August 2004, the district court heard testimony regarding decedent's testamentary capacity from four witnesses. The district court found that decedent had testamentary capacity when he executed his will and dismissed appellants' remaining objections to the probate of the will. The district court also determined that a permanent injunction was necessary to protect decedent's homestead from damage caused by Wallace and Nancy Lazaryan and William Kayser. Id., at 1. Among other things, the district court found [This is wrong. The finding was by the District Court, Probate Division] that James Kayser's "homestead, located [at] 2516 Linwood Avenue East... was owned in fee simple by the Decedent and is a probate asset, rightfully under the control of the Special Administrator." (J. Marrinan's Order, Finding of Facts, ¶ 30.) The court also found that "Evelyn Wallace, formerly Evelyn Kayser, and Robert L. Wallace, her husband, executed a Quit Claim Deed to the homestead in favor of James H. Kayser on October 5, 1978, which Deed was recorded... An Amended Judgment and Decree dated October 6, 1978 was filed in the above described dissolution action and recorded... awarding the homestead to the Decedent, James H. Kayser..." (Id., $ 35.) The court found "The title insurance commitment issued by Chicago Title Insurance Company with an effective date of May 9, 2004 correctly identifies the Decedent as the owner of the real estate..." (Id., ¶ 39.) 2 That lawsuit was eventually dismissed by Judge Harry Crump. The dismissal was upheld by the Court of Appeals in Lazaryan v. Judge Marrinan of the Ramsey Couno) District Court in her Capacity) Personally, A05-28 (Minn. Ct. App. Sept. 6, 2005). 4 In addition to these findings of fact, the district court [Wrong again. The finding was by the District Court, Probate Division] made the following conclusion of law. "Evelyn Wallace, William Kayser and Nancy Lazaryan have no right, title, or interest in or to the property... which property is owned in fee by James H. Kayser, deceased." (J. Marrinan's Order, Conclusions of Law, ¶ 3.) The court granted the permanent injunction [By merely granting an injunction and not ordering a change to the Ramsey County record so as to remove Evelyn Wallace from title, the Probate Court proved that it was without jurisdiction to adjudicate title to the property] noted above, stating: Evelyn Wallace, William Kayser, and Nancy Lazaryan, their agents, servants, employees, attorneys, and those persons in active concert and participation with them who receive actual notice of this Order by personal service or otherwise, are hereby prohibited and restrained from entering upon the property located at 2516 Linwood Avenue East, Maplewood, Minnesota. (J. Marrinan's Order at 8, ¶ 2(a).) It further ordered the return of all personal property they removed from the property (Id., ¶ 2(b)) and discharged the Notice of Lis Pendens3 filed June 15, 2004 (Id. at 9, ¶7). [Wrong. The Lis Pendens remains in force.] Nancy Lazaryan and William Kayser then challenged on appeal the issuance of the permanent injunction, the denial of their request for removal, and the dismissal of their objections to the probate of decedent's will. In June of 2005, the Court of Appeals upheld the lower court's decisions. See, Estate of James H. Kayser, Decedent. The following month, the Minnesota Supreme Court declined to further review the matter. Immediately the Appellate Court's decision, Nancy Lazaryan filed a motion to hold Mr. Riach in contempt of court. In response, the District Court issued an order 1) declining to entertain the motion, and 2) prohibiting Ms. Lazaryan and Mr. Kayser from filing any further pleadings in the case. In July of 2005, Evelyn Wallace then filed a Complaint for Quiet Title of the property. Ms. Wallace named Mr. Riach (as representative of the estate) and Ramsey County District Court as defendants in the matter. (and unknown parties) Ms. Wallace further sought a temporary injunction. By order dated July 15, 2005, District Court Judge Robert Lynn denied Ms. Wallace's request for a temporary injunction noting: The relief sought by Ms. Wallace has already been litigated and decided adversely to her position in the underlying action. These findings have been upheld recently... [by] the Court of Appeals.... There is no likelihood Plaintiff will succeed on the merits of her underlying claims. Rather, she, with the support of certain family members, seems to believe it proper to file new lawsuits. It is not. 3 A Notice of Lins Pendens serves to place a party on notice that the relevant property is the subject of litigation. One acquiring an interest in the property during the pending action takes it subject to the outcome of the suit. 3 Judge Lynn then set the matter on for a hearing, to -consider the dismissal of the lawsuit. The hearing took place on August 30, 2005. At the hearing, Assistant Attorney General John Garry appeared on behalf of the defending court, attorney Ronald Riach appeared on behalf of the defending estate, and attorney Patrick Tierney appeared on behalf of plaintiff Wallace. By Order of September 20, 2005, Judge Lynn granted Defendants' motion of summary judgment and dismissed Plaintiff's quiet title action. The court found that "Plaintiff [previously] had a full and fair opportunity to be heard on the ownership issue or that those in privity with Plaintiff (i.e. Ms. Lazaryan and Mr. Kayser) had a full and fair opportunity to be heard on the ownership issue." (J. Lynn Order at 11.) The court stated: "It is clear, from the above discussion on collateral estoppel, that Plaintiff has no legal interest in the Property and, therefore, no legitimate basis for a quiet title action." (Id. at 13.) The court concluded that, "Plaintiff is estopped from claiming she has an interest in the Property and there is, therefore, no basis for a quiet title action." (Id. at 15.) [Ramberg fails to inform Maplewood that Lynn's Order determined that the ownership issue was determined in a hearing for an injunction in the probate division. Ramberg fails to inform Maplewood that title to property, as a matter of law, cannot be determined in such a hearing for injunctive relief. Ramberg fails to inform Maplewood that Wallace appealed Lynn's Order (based upon said matter of law), and that said appeal is pending.] Notably, Mr. Riach sought and partially received attorneys' fees, sanctions, and the like. The court found as follows: In considering Plaintiff's culpability and ability to pay, the Court finds that Plaintiff must pay any costs and disbursements imposed in this case, and must post a $2,000 cost bond before filing any action in Minnesota in relation to the Maplewood property and/or the estate of James H. Kayser. This is the least restrictive sanction to deter Plaintiff's conduct. The Court notes that if Mr. Kayser and Ms. Lazaryan were parties to this action, the Court would impose on them the attorneys' fees of Riach, as well as the sanctions imposed on Plaintiff. (Id. at 14-15.) It is also worth noting that on September 19, 2005, William Kayser attempted to effectuate service of the Complaint for Quiet Title upon the City of Maplewood (on behalf of Ms. Wallace). It is our position that, however, that service was improper and the City is not legally required to answer the complaint. Given the seriousness of Mr. Kayser's actions, however, the City would nonetheless be compelled to respond under normal circumstances. Although Judge Lynn has dismissed Plaintiff's case, service was attempted prior to the issuance of his order (albeit subsequent to the hearing for summary judgment).4 4 It is not this fact that we believe constitutes ineffective service, but rather Plaintiff's failure to properly amend the Complaint. 0 Through multiple phone calls and correspondence with Plaintiffs attorney, our office has negotiated the following (temporary) resolution. Plaintiff has agreed to grant the City an indefinite extension to answer or otherwise plead on the matter. In the alternative, Plaintiff will have the City dismissed from the current action, or seek clarification that the City is already effectively dismissed. We have assured Plaintiffs attorney that should the City be forced to file a response in this action it will seek costs, attorneys' fees and sanctions. It is our position that this suit, like its predecessors, is without merit. We believe the numerous court rulings on the matter confirm this. It is our opinion that the property that the City now wishes to assess was owned by the estate of James Kayser and properly conveyed to Benchmark Companies and Nedegaard Custom Homes, Inc. We do not believe that Evelyn Wallace, William Kayser or Nancy Lazaryan hold any interest in the property. ADDITIONAL ASSURANCES In its Development Agreement for Woodhill Development City Project 05-10, the Developer Nedegaard "warrants that he is the owner of the property proposed for the construction of the Woodhill development and maintains all rights and obligations necessary to construct the said improvements and to incur any property obligations." (Agreement at 1, ¶ 1.) The Developer further agrees to "reimburse any costs incurred by the City for engineering, legal, and administrative services, associated with the project." (Id. at 3, ¶ 7). The Developer further agrees as follows: the City of Maplewood City Council and its agents or employees shall not be personally liable or responsible in any manner to... any other person or persons whomsoever, for any claim demand, damages, actions or causes of action of any kind or character arising out of or by reason of the execution of this agreement or the performance and completion of the work or the improvements provided herein, which the DEVELOPER will save the CITY harmless from such claims, demands, damages, actions or causes of action or the costs disbursements and expenses of defending the same, specifically including... costs of legal services rendered in connection with defending such claims as may be brought against the CITY. [A fatal defect of this clause is that Maplewood was fully noticed of Wallace's claims at the time it considered the proposal from Woodhill. Therefore, Maplewood has "dirty hands" and this clause does not protect it from a lawsuit by Wallace.] (Id. at 5, ¶ 18.) Although the foregoing provides the City certain protections and assurances, we do not base our recommendation on them. Rather, we submit our recommendation based on our understanding of the relevant facts and application of law. [These warranties have now been shown to be worthless by the failure of said developer to pay the property taxes that have become delinquent on this development as of May 16, 2006. Specifically, the developer is a Limited Liability Corporation, and this means that he can let his company go bankrupt with no impact on his personal property. The fact that the developer is showing himself to be unable to pay the taxes is a sign that he might be about to choose to get out of this problem with a bankruptcy and leave the entire mess in Maplewood's lap.] 5 SUMMARY It is our opinion that the property the City now wishes to assess was owned by the estate of James Kayser and properly conveyed to Benchmark Companies and Nedegaard Custom Homes, Inc. This remains our position notwithstanding the numerous lawsuits filed on behalf of Evelyn Wallace, William Kayser and Nancy Lazaryan to the contrary. Accordingly, we believe the dedication of certain land to the City, as well as the notice'and assessment of land addressed herein and contemplated at this time, is both legal and proper. Today, the Developer continues to fail to dedicate those certain lands (eight acres of Applewood Park) to the City of Maplewood. The reason for his failure is simple — he cannot dedicate that which he does not own. If the developer actually owned the land, he would have dedicated it to Maplewood. The only possible reason for the developer to not dedicate it is because he does not own it. And the only reason why the developer would not own it is because Evelyn Wallace actually owns it. Since the developer's failure to dedicate proves that Evelyn Wallace owns the land that was to have been dedicated, that failure also proves that she owns the rest of the property. This remainder of the property includes the property that was subdivided against her wishes by Maplewood. Maplewood's ex -city attorney, Patrick Kelly, was powerfully motivated to keep Evelyn Wallace from returning to her property. This means that he had a powerful motive for encouraging Maplewood to subdivide Wallace's property against her wishes and to destroy her home. This motivation stems from his failure to properly supervise Maplewood's purchase of Evelyn Wallace's property in 9995 for what is now called Applewood Park. This supervisory failure resulted in Maplewood actually not acquiring fee ownership of the property that is now Applewood Park, Instead, Maplewood owns only part or none of that park property. The result of all this is that rather than being a simple mistake, Patrick Kelly's actions have turned Maplewood's attacks on Evelyn Wallace into premeditated malicious assaults. To avoid becoming accessories in his crimes, it is vital that this Maplewood City Council takes immediate steps to reverse each and every action that was part of Kelly's unlawful deeds. ATTACHMENT B ANNOTATED MEMORANDUM DATED NOVEMBER 3, 2005 FROM CHUCK AHL TO RICHARD FURSMAN Agenda Item H1 In this document, added comments to the original text are inside brackets [ ] and are in bold type. While reading this memo, be aware of the following facts: 1. The claimed future removal of Evelyn Wallace from fee ownership of 2516 Linwood never occurred. 2. The developer who pushed for this approval has failed to pay the property taxes on this land. AGENDA REPORT TO: Richard Fursman, City Manager FROM: Charles Ahl, Public Works Director/City Engineer Erin Laberee, Assistant City Engineer SUBJECT: Dahl Avenue, Street and Utility Improvements for Woodhill Development, City Project 05-10 — Resolution Considering Dismissal of Assessment Objection Related to Property Ownership DATE: November 3, 2005 INTRODUCTION On October 24, 2005, the City Council conducted an Assessment Hearing for the Dahl Avenue Improvements, City Project 05-10. One objection was filed at the hearing from William Kayser on behalf of Evelyn Wallace claiming that Evelyn Wallace was the rightful owner of the property. Based on advice from the City Attorney, this objection should be denied. Background Dahl Avenue is a new public street constructed for the Woodhill Development. The proposed assessments for the Dahl Avenue Street and Utility Improvements are for costs relating to the street and utility construction that benefit the adjacent properties. The assessment is to property, not individuals, and the City is not a party nor was involved in the lawsuits over the Woodhill Development. The assessment objection claim of Mr. Kayser and a further claim that staff (Chuck Ahl) lied to the Council at the October 24, 2005 meeting is not supported by the facts. Attached is a copy of Mr. Kayser's objection form. Mr. Kayser also left a voice mail and e-mail claiming staff provided the Council incorrect information. Attached is the explanation of the lawsuits filed by Mr. Kayser on behalf of Evelyn Wallace. The City Attorney summarizes the results of these lawsuits as follows: It is our position that this suit, like its predecessors, is without merit. We believe the numerous court rulings on the matter confirm this. It is our opinion that the property that the City now wishes to assess was owned by the estate of James Kayser and properly conveyed to Benchmark Companies and Nedegaard Custom Homes, Inc. We do not believe that Evelyn Wallace, William Kayser or Nancy Lazaryan hold any interest in the property. Property Ownership Issue Mr. Kayser claims that Ramsey County records still show Evelyn C Wallace as the property owner. Mr. Kayser must be referring to a query search of GIS property records. City staff checked with Ramsey County Office of Registrar officials and determined that they are currently up to June 26th for records in the Abstract Office and June 7th for records in the Torrens Office, as of November 3`d. Many of the property orders identified in the City Attorney memo occurred in September 2005 and will not be identified in the Ramsey County website data. for another 3-4 months. Mr. Kayser's claim is not valid, as the website data isnot legal information. Denial of his claim is recommended. [Guess what? Eight months have elapsed since this memo, and Ramsey County stili shows that Evelyn Wallace own the land. Did Kelly ever tell you that she still owned the land, even after the supposed document that was to have taken her our of ownership had been recorded? NO! Besides, who makes recommendations based on unknown possibilities? The city attorney says that our claim is invalid, based on a possible future event (an ownership change resulting from something that supposedly occurred in three months in the past but that will not take effect until three months in the future.)] Agenda Item H1 RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the city council approve the attached Resolution Denying the Objection of William Kayser for the Dahl Avenue, Street and Utility Improvements for Woodhill Development, City Project 05-10. RESOLUTION DENYING ASSESSMENT OBJECTION WHEREAS, pursuant to a resolution adopted by the City Council on October 24'x', 2005, calling for a Public Hearing, the assessment roll for the Dahl Avenue, Street and Utility Improvements for Woodhill Development, City Project 05-10, was presented in a Public Hearing format, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 429, and WHEREAS, one property owner, Mr. William Kayser on behalf of Evelyn C. Wallace, filed an objection to their assessments according to the requirements of Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 429, summarized as follows: Mr. Kayser claims that Evelyn Wallace is the legal property owner of this parcel. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF MAPLEWOOD, MINNESOTA: 1. That the objection of William Kayser is not based upon fact as noted by the City Attorney and records provided by the current property owner and said objection is hereby denied. 2. The assessment roll for the Dahl Avenue Street and Utility Improvements for Woodhill Development remains as proposed and approved on October 24, 2005, a copy of which is attached hereto and made a part hereof. Said assessment roll shall constitute the special assessment against the lands named therein, and each tract of land therein included is hereby found to be benefited by the proposed improvement in the amount of the assessment levied against it. 3. Such assessments shall be payable in equal annual installments extending over a period of 15 years, the first installments to be payable on or before the first Monday in January 2006 and shall bear interest at the rate of 6.1 percent per annum for the date of the adoption of this assessment resolution. To the first installment shall be added interest on the entire assessment from the date of this resolution until December 31, 2005. To each subsequent installment when due shall be added interest for one year on all unpaid installments. 4. The owner of any property so assessed may, at any time prior to certification of the assessment to the county auditor, but no later than November 23`d, 2005, pay the whole of the assessment on such property, with interest accrued to the date of the payment, to the city clerk, except that no interest shall be charged if the entire assessment is paid within 30 days from the adoption of this resolution; and they may, at any time after November 23`d, 2005, pay to the county auditor the entire amount of the assessment remaining unpaid, with interest accrued to December 31 of the year in which such payment is made. Such payment must be made before November 15 or interest will be charged through December 31 of the next succeeding year. 5. The city engineer and city clerk shall transmit a certified duplicate of this assessment to the county auditor to be extended on the property tax lists of the county no later than November 24`x', 2005. Such assessments shall be collected and paid over the same manner as other municipal taxes. Adopted by the council on this 10' day of November 2005. OUR REBUTTAL The record continues to show that in spite of the filing of the document cited by ex -attorney Kelly and ex -director Ahl, Evelyn Wallace remains the fee owner of 2516 Linwood, which is the property that Maplewood subdivided to create the Woodhill division. Therefore, all actions regarding this property by Maplewood over the objections of Evelyn Wallace were (and continue to be) totally illegal and/or unlawful. ATTACHMENT C DOCUMENT #3762693 DATED JUNE 159 2004 DOCUMENT DATED JANUARY 11, 2005 BOTH PROVING THAT EVELYN WALLACE OWNS SUBJECT PROPERTY 11 os/02/2004 11:10 FAX 6516381984 LAND TITLE NEW BRIQHTON 1{006/007 0O NOTEDBYAUDITOR P0� Auddo6 Ram ottnhr, ytmnseota By �. DOL.# 3762693 Certified 1"Ir d tta AM 1 S, MM AT dl eeitdt4 ifFF M MEMM tttMooMM Ftp Ai+11Na�tt. u&w M 11111I111111M Affidavi(of•SurvWorship STATE OF MINNESOTA NANM OF DB�D�P1T COMMOP I, �A1i.��1 mow. N• � NMM OFAFFAnl ena Addreo er AMML rndlcLN„r. Pay le- �� S 5 4L/ be* first duly sworn, on oath state from personal lmbwledge: That the above named decedent is the parson named in the certified copy of Ccrtifieatc of heath attached harem aad made a part hereof 2, Z— That the name(s) of the sutvivor(s) {dare sue 4C ger Olek MJn C. W21t4U That said decedent on date of death was an owner as a joint/life tcnent of uia land legally described as Mows: 97c4-13 t 3 Tw P - 0z ,V 'P" e -OZ2 Ge"F - 13 -row" Z9 lza nae- 2 z•-_ 'q vvJ 1A anA Nv) i/4 vr MW 144 N 1/4t (•skb, -10 (-� 0 13 -V-WA 22 rCn 27.. - As shown by instrument recorded as Document No. in the office of the County Recorder of County, MiAtiesota, or as shown on Cettliicote of 'Title No. Hies of the Registrar of Titles of _ _ _ County, lvflaeesota, j9dz7 ibed end am to before me this of Nomy same er 8w ter ed+ts end«,.aW u►�t to PLOO 6v E!P t4�halon E�w�.�ar Jt, 20os This Witrvmedt wee drafted by (Miro eed.ddreu) W: 111A... kAysI- - PYo F ti,si��< 7U uro�eotr for Uu red pro" dreribed in gilt xktltumeotekauld6eKxb: G Ya J% yf � . f r• OvookryNr7prk,.h•vs-ry-/,I " 13 - .Ap-- R a - /2. - 00/0 to - 1/11/05 RAMSEY COUNTY RECORDER'S OFFICE 11:28:33 DOCUMENT NUMBER INQUIRY DOCUMENT REVIEWED Document Number: 3762693 Date Recorded: Fee Paid.: 20.00 No Fee:. Copy Fee: Instrument: 0040 AFFT SURVIV Title Co: 00 CHECKS/CASH Grantor l: JAMES H KAYSER 2: 3: 4: Grantee 1: EVELYN C KAYSER 2: EVELYN C WALLACE 3: 4: Returned To: WILLIAM KAYSER RCI2 ABSTRA 6/15/2004 Time Recorded: 1:00:00 .00 Copy Quantity: City/St/Zip: Comments: Lien Id: Reference Doc: Consideration: .00 Legal Description: F3=Exit, F8=Legal F24=More Keys Ramsey County Recorder, Minnesota, do hereby certify that. the attached instryment ccnsistirr of -- L pages is a ;rue and correct cc,:y of thy. original on file and of record in my office. _ Dated is—d—day oj:anJ , 20 5 aU tzecaIputy Y � Co I a-= �m a "iiiw r.. � I 016 17 Jw - n i � - _.� may„ � :, ��'��-_. Fs�� • - �� �Q '� •, �'�- . `_1 O;Onl 4 ,,lm AGENDA REPORT TO: Greg Copeland, Interim City Manager FROM: Charles Ahl, Director of Public Works/City Engineer SUBJECT: Gladstone Area Redevelopment Improvements, City Project 04-21 — Resolution Providing Project Direction and Authorization to Submit a Livable Communities Grant Application to Metropolitan Council DATE: July 10, 2006 INTRODUCTION and BACKGROUND The City Council has submitted their comments on the Gladstone Master Plan and discussed much of the information from the Master Plan at the June 26th Work Session. The discussion will continue at the July 10th Work Session. Upon conclusion of that discussion, the Council should provide direction on proceeding with the project. It is critical that the Council adopt a resolution to provide a reasonable submittal for the Livable Communities Demonstration Grant, which is due on July 17, 2006, and to attempt to provide some action prior to the expiration of the Gladstone Area Moratorium, which expires on September 8, 2006. I have prepared the resolution based the staff understanding of the Council's discussion on June 26th. RECOMMENDATION It is recommended that the City Council adopt the attached resolution that provides for the following: 1. Authorize staff to develop a Planning Document based upon a revised Master Planning Document for the Gladstone Redevelopment Initiative at the flowing development levels and public improvement investment: Business Climate Work with Gladstone businesses to allow them to remain in the neighborhood if they choose. Development on the Savanna Do not allow any building development—only natural development with minimal historic public structures. Improvements on the Savanna should be one of the first public improvements made in the neighborhood. Savanna Improvements Only natural improvements should be allowed. This includes savanna restoration as a natural open space. Flicek Park Improvements Make no changes to Flicek Park. Any changes to Flicek Park should be left up to the experts—the parks commission and park -planning staff. Gladstone Resolution July 10, 2006 Page Two Culvert / Bebo Improvements Modify the plan so that it includes other options for a pedestrian/stormwater system in this area. The bebo should be considered optional for consideration later and not specifically approved. Density The allowed density shall be a minimum of 600 housing units. More can be allowed based on to -be -established density bonuses. There was no specific maximum density established. Building Height Issues In general, lower buildings are preferred when they are closer to the street. They can go higher as the building mass is further set back up to four stories. Building Setback Massing and Scale Issues Same as building height criteria—buildings with greater mass should be set further back to be less imposing from street view. Care should be taken to "blend" the scale of the new buildings with the existing. Power Line Burial Support for the burial of power lines at a reduced cost. Eminent Domain No support for this. Level of Public Improvements–Frost Avenue Improvement The discussion of this item was not concluded, but the council had discussed omitting the median, using trees to create a colonnade along Frost Avenue and making Frost Avenue narrower. At the level of density, the likely investment will range from $14 million to $15 million in public installed improvements. 2. Authorize the staff to prepare and submit a Livable Communities Demonstration Grant Application to the Metropolitan Council prior to the due date of July 17, 2006. 3. Authorize the Public Works Director to assemble an Implementation Team which shall include the City Park and Recreation Director, the City Finance Director, the City Senior Planner, the City Planner, the consultant Master Planner and the consultant Engineer to develop the following reports and plans: A. The 1st Phase of the Tax Increment Financing Plan, including recommendations from a Consultant Financial Advisor, with the goal of the first TIF District to be established and authorized prior to the expiration of the Gladstone Moratorium on September 8, 2006. Gladstone Resolution July 10, 2006 Page Three B. A Prioritized Public Improvement Plan, including a suggested timing schedule for implementation based upon a 3-5 year project build out. C. A Prioritized Development Plan, including a listing of potential development parcels that potentially provided for the first project within the Development Area based upon the TIF District and Public Improvement Plan. D. A Preliminary Planning and Zoning Analysis that provides an evaluation of the land -use and zoning needs to achieve the provisions of the Planning Document. 4. Appropriate $75,000 to the Gladstone Project Fund from future TIF Administrative revenues to pay for the Planning Consultant, Engineering Consultant and Financial Advisory Consultant noted above within the Implementation Team. The Public Works Director is hereby authorized to administer the contracts for said consultants up to the $75,000 maximum. Financial Impact The City has invested over $357,000 to date on this important initiative. The proposed expenditure of $75,000 should provide appropriate expertise to the staff to allow the preparation of grants, financial analysis for TIF Planning and District creation, planning services to provide a recommendation to the Council on the appropriate revisions to the land -use and zoning within the area to meet Planning Document goals, and engineering analysis to determine an appropriate improvement schedule to accommodate and coordinate the improvements to adjacent development. This will also provide the Council recommendations on possible property acquisition or TIF investment to achieve the various goals of the Planning Document. It is anticipated that the funding will provide the necessary consultant services through September 2006 at which point the Council will likely be making decisions on the various TIF districts. Attachments: 1. Resolution � --A I I A 6t fir J? i6 7- 7, -7-l"', Ila, m ME N-4, 'Qp rl ti '541