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HomeMy WebLinkAbout19980817_regularMINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE EDINA CITY COUNCIL HELD AT CITY HALL AUGUST 17,1998 - 200 P.M. ROLLCALL Answering rollcall were Members Faust, Hovland, Kelly, Maetzold and Mayor Smith. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS APPROVED Motion made by Member Maetzold and seconded by Member Faust approving the Consent Agenda with the exception of Agenda Item I., Approval of Minutes of the Regular Meeting of August 3,1998, and Agenda Item IV., Bid Rejected for Sidewalk (Maple Road Improvement No. S-075). Rollcalk Ayes: Faust, Hovland, Kelly, Maetzold, Smith Motion carried. CONSTITUTION WEEK PROCLAIMED FOR SEPTEMBER 17-23 Mayor Smith stated it is a privilege of all Americans to commemorate the two hundred tenth anniversary of the drafting of the Constitution of the United States of America with appropriate ceremonies and activities. He encouraged all citizens to study the Constitution and to reflect on the privilege of being an American and proclaimed the week of September 17-23,1998, as Constitution Week in Edina. Member Hovland made a motion declaring the week of September 17 through 23 as Constitution Week in the City of Edina. Member Faust seconded the motion. Rollcall Ayes: Faust, Hovland, Kelly, Maetzold, Smith Motion carried. “MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING OF AUGUST 12, 1998, APPROVED Motion made by Member Maetzold and seconded by Member Faust approving the minutes of the Special Council Meeting of August 12,1998. Motion carried on rollcall vote - five ayes. MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF AUGUST 3, 1998, APPROVED Member Hovland removed the Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting of August 3,1998, for amendment of his comments regarding the Preliminary Plat Approval for Smiley 2nd Addition (Christ Presbyterian Church). Member Maetzold made a motion approving the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of August 3, 1998, as amended. Member Faust seconded the motion. Ayes: Faust, Hovland, Kelly, Maetzold, Smith Motion carried. VACATION OF PUBLIC TURN-AROUND EASEMENT (6219 HALIFAX AVENUE SOUTH) APPROVED Affidavits of Notice were presented, approved and ordered placed on file. Page 1 MinutesBdina Citv CounciVAugust - 17,1998 ..: Engineer Hoffman reported to the City Council that when Mr. Ray Peterson attempted to settle his parents’ estate, he found the property had an easement for construction purposes in the front yard. Mr. Peterson has applied to the City to have the easement vacated. Engineer Hoffman stated there is no reason for the City to keep the easement and none of the utility companies object to the vacation. He recommended that CounciI grant the vacation as requested. I After a brief discussion Member Faust introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION VACATING EASEMENT FOR PUBLIC TURN AROUND PURPOSES WHEREAS, a motion of the City Council, on the 20th day of July 1998, fixed a date for a public hearing on a proposed public turn around easement vacation; and WHEREAS, two weeks published and posted notice of said hearing was given and the hearing was held on the 17th day of August, 1998, at which time all persons desiring to be heard were given an opportunity to be heard thereon; and WHEREAS, the Council deems it to be in the best interest of the City and of the public that said easement vacation be made; and WHEREAS, the Council considered the extent the vacation affects existing easements within the area of the vacation and the extent to which the vacation affects the authority of any person, corporation, or municipality owning or controlling electric, telephone or cable television poles and lines, gas and sewer lines, or water pipes, mains, and hydrants on or under the area of the proposed vacation to continue maintaining the same, or to enter upon such easement area or portion thereof vacated to maintain, repair, replace, remove or otherwise attend thereto; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Edina, Hennepin County, Minnesota, that the following turnaround easement is hereby vacated effective as of August 17,1998: An easement for a temporary turnaround over the segment of that part of a circle in Lot 5, Roy H. Peterson’s Addition, Hennepin County, Minnesota, adjacent to and East of the East line of Halifax Avenue, as opened,, the diameter of said circle being 100 feet, the center point being 50 feet North of the Southeast corner of Lot 16, Block 1, Peacedale Acres, and 10 feet East of the East line of said Lot 16, measured at right angles thereto. I BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that said vacation does not affect, and there are continued, reserved, and retained, by the said resolution ordering the vacation, the following existing easements and authority in, on and under the above vacated area: The authority of Northern Stqtes Power Company, US West Communications, Paragon Cable Minnesota, or Minnegasco to enter upon the above vacated area for the maintenance, replacement, repair and removal of and for otherwise attending to, underground conduit, manholes, cables, wires and poles required for utility senrice now in, on or under the above vacated area. BE IT FURTHZR RESOLVED that the City Clerk is authorized and directed to cause a notice of completion of proceedings to be prepared, entered in the transfer record of the County Auditor, and filed with the County Recorder, in accordance with Minnesota Statutes, Section 412.851. Member Maetzold seconded the motion. Rollcall: Ayes: Faust, Hovland, Kelly, Maetzold, Smith Motion carried. Page 2 MinutesEdha City CounciVAugust - 17,1998 FINAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR PARKLAWN PARTNERS, LLC (7450 FRANCE AVENUE SOUTH) APPROVED Affidavits of Notice were presented, approved and ordered placed on file. Presentation by Planner Planner Larsen stated the subject property is zoned POD-1, Planned Office District and is developed with a two story, 52,600 square foot office building. The existing building is oriented towards France Avenue, and is supported by parking behind or to the west of the building. The occupancy of the building is multi-tenant, general office use. Planner Larsen explained the Final Development Plan request proposes to build a second office building to the west of the existing building fronting Parklawn Avenue. The proposed building would be two stories in height, with a total floor area of 29,000 square feet. The proposed building would be a medical office. The two building development would share parking through cross easements. As general office use, the existing building requires 253 parking spaces. The medical office building requires an additional 174 spaces for a total demand of 427 spaces. The proposed Final Development Plan illustrates 442 spaces, including 16 spaces below 'the new building. Planner Larsen noted the proposed plan requires a ten foot parking variance on Parklawn, but the proposal meets or exceeds City requirements in all other aspects. Proposed exterior materials for the new building are brick and stucco. Planner Larsen reported the Planning Commission at their July 29,1998, meeting recommended Final Development Plan approval subject to: 1. A conforming landscaping plan that emphasizes screening along the west property line; 2. Installation of a sidewalk along Parklawn Avenue in conformance with City specifications; and 3. Nine Mile Creek Watershed District Grading and Water Quality Permits. Planner Larsen added that since the Planning Commission meeting, the grading plan has been modified to add the sidewalk, and the landscaping has been increased as recommended. He said that action by the Watershed District will follow the City Council decision. Council discussed the rate control pond, the parking setback variance, the landscaping plan, and the amount of parking required for the new medical office. Member Hovland introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION APPROVING FINAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council at the City of Edina, Minnesota, that the Final Development plan for Parklawn Partners, LLC, 7450 France Avenue South presented at the regular meeting of the City Council on August 17,1998, be and is hereby approved subject to approval of Nine Mile Creek Watershed District Permits. Member Maetzold seconded the motion. Rollcall: Ayes: Faust, Hovland, Kelly, Maetzold, Smith Page 3 Minutesfidha Citv CounciVAugust - 17,1998 Motion carried. I ORDINANCE NO. 1998-5 ADOPTED - AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 810, DEFINITION OF NEIGHBORHOOD Planner Larsen explained the proposed amendment to the definition of neighborhood would exclude from the definition of "Neighborhood" any lots separated from a proposed plat by Highway 100 or Crosstown Highway 62. He added that since no R-1 properties are located west of Highway 169 or south of 1494, these highways were not included in the amendment. The Council briefly discussed the proposed amendment. They questioned whether Vernon Avenue, Interlachen Boulevard, or 50th Street should be included in the amendment, whether or not the standard of a neighborhood should be included in the ordinance, and the need to develop a policy for deviating from the neighborhood definition. Member Maekold made a motion granting first reading and waiving second reading of the following ordinance: ORDINANCE NO. 1998-5 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 810 OF THE CITY CODE AMEND THE DEFINITION OF THE TERM "NEIGHBORHOOD" THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF EDINA ORDAINS: Section 1. Subd. 1 of Subsection 810.02 of the City Code is amended by providing a new definition of "Neighborhood" as follows: I "Neighborhood. All lots in the Single Dwelling Unit District as established by Section 850 of this Code which are wholly or partially within 500 feet of the perimeter of the proposed plat or subdivision except : A. Lots used for publicly owned parks, playgrounds, athletic facilities and golf B. Lots used for conditional uses as established by Section 850 of this Code; or C. Lots separated from the proposed plat or subdivision by the right of way of courses; either T.H. 100 or T.H. 62. If the neighborhood includes only a part of a lot, then the whole of that lot shall be included in the neighborhood. As to streets on the perimeter of the proposed plat or subdivision, the 500 feet shall be measured from the common line of the street and the proposed plat or subdivision." Section 2. This ordinance is in full force and effect upon passage and publication. Passed and adopted by the Edina City Council this 17fh day of August, 1998. Glenn L. Smith, Mayor Attest: Debra Mangen, Cit$ Clerg Member Faust seconded the motion. Rollcalk Ayes: Faust, Hovland, Kelly, Maetzold, Smith Motion carried. BID RETECTED FOR MAPLE ROAD IMPROVEMENT NO. S-075 SIDEWALK Member Hovland said he removed the rejected award of bid for the Maple Road Improvement No. SO75 Page 4 Minutesfidina City CounciVAugust 17,1998 Sidewalk to inquire whether the high bid would self-correct in the spring because construction companies would have less work. Engineer Hoffman said he believes the job can be re-bid and the proposed assessment rate per lot reached in the spring, Member Hovland made a motion to reject the bid for Contract 98-10 (ENG), Improvement Nos. S-075 (Maple Road Sidewalks) and to re-bid at a later date. Member Faust seconded the motion. Ayes: Faust, Hovland, Kelly, Maetzold, Smith Motion carried. TRAFFIC SAFETY REPORT OF AUGUST 4,1998, SECTION A, B. 1,3,4,5, C.1,2,3 APPROVED; SECTION B.2 APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS; AND SECTION C.4 APPROVED DIRECTING STAFF TO REQUEST A HENNEPIN COUNTY TRAFFIC STUDY AT XERXES AVENUE FROM THE CROSSTOWN HIGHWAY TO WEST 66TH STREET AND SIGNALIZATION Member Hovland asked Coordinator Bongaarts about Section A.3., where staff recommended ”No Parking Anytime” signs be posted on the north side of Waterman Avenue from the west boundary of 6220 Interlachen to the Interlachen gate, and ”No Parking Anytime” signs be posted on the south side of Waterman from the west boundary of 6309 Waterman to the Interlachen gate. Coordinator Bongaarts responded staff does not believe cars will move that far up the street. He elaborated that on the south side there is an Interlachen Golf Course driving range gate opening onto Waterman. When the direction of the driving range is changed, people park on Waterman rather than use the parking lot. Staff requested Interlachen lock the gate, but they refused, because it is used for maintenance vehicles. Not all residents wanted the ”No Parking Anytime” ban implemented. Member Faust asked where residents will park. Coordinator Bongaarts reminded the Council parking will remain on one side of the street. I Mayor Smith inquired about Section B.l, request for STOP signs on West Shore Drive at Dunham Drive, stating, ’this street is an excellent candidate for sidewalks which would have to be petitioned for by residents’ asking if that meant on both sides of the street. Coordinator Bongaarts said on one side and noted it would be easy to put sidewalks in, there are no trees to impede installation. Mayor Smith asked if both sides of the street would bear the assessment. Engineer Hoffman reminded the Council at the September 22, 1998, meeting there will be a ”proposed” school zone walking area and be paid for by an area assessment. Coordinator Bongaarts explained Section B.2. is requesting continuation of a request for a STOP sign.on Normandale Road (easterly side of Highway 100) at West 6gth Street. It is a “T” intersection travelling one way to the North and was continued awaiting results of the comparison study done on West Shore Drive. Normandale Road’s functional classification is considered a collector street and is a northbound frontage road to Highway 100. Normandale Road serves as a frontage road for homes accessing the neighborhoods on both sides of Highway 100 and north and south of West 66th Street. Collector streets are designed to move traffic from local streets wMe minimizing travel times. The‘roadway functions the same as West 66th Street, West 50th Street, and Tracy Avenue. Twelve homes directly access this portion of Normandale Road with the average driveway length of 125 lineal feet. A typical driveway in Edina is 35 lineal feet. Each driveway has a turn-around, therefore eliminating the need for residents to back out Page 5 Minutes/Edina City CouncWAugust - 17,1998 into traffic along Normandale Road. The 85 percentile speed is 45 mph and is one of the criteria used to set speed limits on a roadway. Criteria used for setting speed limits are: I 1. Geometric design of the roadway: A. Is a driver able to stop when seeing a small object on the roadway; B. Is the driver comfortable while transversing the roadway; C. Amount of access points and volume of vehicles along the route. Staff recommends the following, based on the functional classification of the roadway and speeds attained in the initial study. 1. The request for a STOP sign located at Normandale Road and West 69th Street be denied due to lack of warrants as stated in the Multiway STOP Sign Policy; 2. A traffic study be initiated to analyze the possibility of raising the speed limit along both sides of Normandale Road from West 66fi Street to West 70th; and 3. The Police Department continue speed enforcement along Normandale Road. Member Hovland asked what the accident rate is in the area. Coordinator Bongaarts informed Council there is no accident history. Member Faust voiced concern with raising speeds. Engineer Hoffman said while this street violates the 30 mph limit, should it be expected that traffic exiting the freeway slows to 30 mph at that location. Member Maetzold said traffic going up the hill has their scenario set for them and seems that stretch of road is an acceleration lane. He feels a STOP at this location may remind drivers they are moving into a residential neighborhood. Engineer Hoffman said staff felt a STOP at that location would not be observed - it is a wide open area and drivers are comfortable doing a faster speed. I Member Kelly noted that cut-through traffic is terrible. We have collector roads and the way they should function is to alleviate cut-through by fumeling traffic to one specific area. This roadway does exactly that for several reasons: 1) double wide, one-way street; 2) houses on only one side; and 3) houses built to accommodate safely, unobstructed traffic. A STOP placed at Normandale Road and West 69th Street will only create the problem of cut-through traffic between 70th Street and 66* Street and the traffic study and research bears this fact out. Member Hovland concurred with Member Kelly and believes further that a STOP sign could create the potential for rear-end type accidents. He recommended leaving the intersection as it is. He questioned the speed limit on West 66th being 35 mph. Engineer Hoffman responded, yes, and is a carry-over from days when Hwy 100 fed traffic on to that street. Member Hovland said if speeds were to be adjusted, it would be more conducive to being 35 mph, as it is on West 66th Street Dean Kovack, 6817 Normandale Road, said he is not requesting the STOP sign to be difficult, but for the safety of residents in the neighborhood. He reminded Council 69th Street will be moved 80+ feet north creating more of a launching pad for drivers exiting Hwy 100. He agrees Normandale is a safe way to get to 66th Street, but it does not need to be the fastest. He wishes to be proactive with installation of a STOP at Normandale and West 69th Street before something tragic happens. I Page 6 MinutesBdina City Council/August 17,1998 Member Hovland inquired whether sidewalks had been considered on Normandale. Mr. Kovack responded no. Polly Bowles, 4809 Wilford Way, said she is speaking for the church while it is not a church issue nor does it affect the church. While canvassing the neighborhood about the proposed church design, one issue raised repeatedly was traffic speed. The church's position as a Woodhill neighbor is if the neighbors believe speed would be controlled with a STOP, the church would support it. Ms. Bowles commented she was struck by the STOP that went up on West Shore Drive at Upper Terrace and feels that STOP will be ignored. She has sympathy for the residents who live on Normandale that have children and she feels a STOP would be a hallmark saying this is not a freeway and are you are entering a residential neighborhood. Mayor Smith said a traffic study should be done in the area after the church is completed and occupied. He favors installation of a STOP sign, but will defer to the expertise of staff and the traffic safety warrants. Three questions remain, 1) whether to raise the speed limit, 2) complete a traffic study after the church is finished and 3) vote for the STOP or not. Member Maetzold responded to question 1) raise in speed limit - perhaps at some time, but not now, 2) traffic should be studied when the church is completed and 3) he would vote for a STOP sign if the vote were taken today. Member Hovland asked for more information on the West Shore STOP sign from Coordinator Bongaarts. He historically has believed traffic is slowed by STOP signs. He was surprised by the .5 mph slowing of speed on West Shore and that 1/3 of the drivers were blowing the STOP sign. From a policy standpoint, a STOP at Normandale and West 6gth will not slow traffic. Member Hovland said he sees this as an enforcement issue and the area should be patrolled and speeders ticketed. Residents should not have to walk in the street and neighbors should submit a petition for sidewalks in the area. He agrees with staff's recommendation and would like speeds and traffic studied in the future. Member Faust said she would like, 1) a traffic study done after the church is completed, 2) a speed study done, 3) speed limit remain at 30 mph, and 4) no STOP sign installed now, but maybe after the traffic study is completed. Mayor Smith summarized Council consensus, 1) there will be no increase in speed limit, 2) a traffic study will be undertaken after the church is completed, 3) no consensus for a STOP to be installed at Normandale Road and West 69th Street at the present time, and 4) more diligent speed enforcement in the area. Mr. Kovack asked what the actual speeds on Normandale were. Chief Bernhjelm said the data is picked up as part of the study, but no enforcement is done during the study. Member Maetzold made a motion approving the Traffic Safety Staff Review of August 10, 1998, Section A as recommendedl: 1. Installation of a handicap access ramp in line with the pedestrian crosswalk on the east side of the Vernon Avenue/Interlachen Boulevard intersection on the northeast corner; 2. Use of tfaffic speed display trailer in the 3900-4000 blocks of Sunnyside Road; Page 7 MinutesDdina City CounciVAugust 17,1998 3. "No Parking Anytime" signs be posted on the north side of Waterman Avenue from €he west boundary of 6220 Interlachen to the Interlachen gate, and "No Parking Anytime" signs be posted on the south side of Waterman from the west boundary of 6309 Waterman to the Interlachen gate; and Section B. 1,3,4,5. Member Faust seconded the motion. Ayes: Faust, Hovland, Kelly, Maetzold, Smith Motion carried. Member Faust made a motion approving €he Traffic Safety Staff Review of August 10,1998, Section B.2, conditioned upon: 1. No increase in €he speed limit on Normandale Road; 2. Initiation of a traffic study following the completion of construction of Christ Presbyterian Church; 3. No STOP sign installation until completion of a traffic study following conclusion of Christ Presbyterian Church construction; and 4. Police Department concentrate traffic enforcement in the area. Motion was seconded by Member Hovland. Ayes: Faust, Hovland, Kelly, Maetzold, Snufh Motion carried. Member Hovland questioned Section C.4. A petition with 700 signatures was received asking for improvements in the intersection of Heritage Drive and Xerxes Avenue. The request was predicated on the safety of residents in the area especially since the recent fatality. Member Hovland asked if, on an interim basis, sometling could be done to alleviate traffic problems until Hennepin County makes a decision on whether to do a traffic study of the area which would include signalization. Engineer Hoffman said left turns off Heritage Drive could be banned onto Xerxes, but he believes the majority of residents in the area would disagree with this solution. The decision is Hennepin County's, and must go through their process. He explained the fatality happened at a non-peak time between two residents of the neighborhood. He suggested a resolution be sent to the County officially requesting a complete study of the area, which is all we can do at the present time. Mayor Smith asked if the hospital plans shouldn't be included in the traffic study of the area also. Engineer Hoffman noted BRW is doing an internal traffic study at present for the hospital east of France Avenue. The City historically uses SRF for their traffic studies, but staff believes BRW should study the area as a part of the hospital study. Member Maetzold inquired what was being done west of France Avenue on 65th Street. Engineer Hoffman said BRW will incorporate their data of the area as well as incorporate data provided by SRF and Hennepin County. Mayor Smith added he believes the hospital should be a major contributor if signalized intersections are required and suggested that Hennepin County be encouraged to study a broader area because of the impact the hospital has on traffic in the area. Member Hovland made a motion approving Traffic Safety Staff Review of August 10,1998, Section C. 1, 2, 3, and Section C. 4 and staff be directed to draf€ a Resolution to Hennepin County requesting a traffic safety study be completed for Xemes Avenue from the Crosstown Highway to West 66th Street and to include signalization along with other means to improve the safety of that geographic area of the City. Member Faust seconded the motion. Page 8 'Minutesfidina City CounciVAugust 17,1998 Ayes: Faust, Hovland, Kelly, Maetzold, Smith -I Motion carried. *RESOLUTION ADOPTED SETTING OCTOBER 5,1998 AS PUBLIC HEARING DATE FOR SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS ON PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS Motion made by Member Maetzold and seconded by Member Faust setting October 5,1998, adopting the following: RESOLUTION NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF EDINA, MINNESOTk 1. A public hearing shall be held on the 5th day of October, 1998, in the Council Chambers at City Hall at EO0 P.M. to pass upon the proposed special assessments for the 1997-98 construction season. All persons owning property affected by such improvements at such time and place will be given an opportunity to be heard with reference to such assessments. 2. The city clerk is hereby directed to cause a notice of hearing on the proposed assessments to be published in the Edina Sun-Current at least two weeks before the hearing and shall in the notice state the total cost of the improvements. The clerk shall also cause mailed notice to be given to the owner of each parcel described in the assessment rolls not less than two weeks before the hearings. Motion carried on rollcall vote - five ayes. "RESOLUTION APPOINTING ELECTION TUDGES FOR STATE PRIMARY ELECTION SEPTEMBER 15, 1998 Member Maetzold introduced the following resolution, seconded by Member Faust adopting the following resolution: RESOLUTION BE IT RESOLVED by the Edina City Council that the individuals named on the list as presented and on file in the office of the City Clerk be appointed as election judges for the primary election to be conducted on September 15,1998; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Clerk is with this, authorized to make any substitutions or additions as deemed necessary. I Motion carried on rollcall vote - five ayes. NEW ON-SALE WINE AND 3.2 BEER LICENSE APPROVED FOR BIG BOWL, INC. Manager Rosland explained an on-sale wine and 3.2 beer license for Big Bowl, Inc., d.b.a. Big Bowl Cafe at 3669 Galleria has been requested. All necessary documentation has been completed as well as an investigation by the Police Department. Following a brief Council discussion, Member Faust made a motion approving issuance of a new on-sale wine and 3.2 beer license to Big Bowl, Inc., d.b.a. Big Bowl Cafe at 3669 Galleria. Member Kelly seconded the motion. Ayes: Faust, Hovland, Kelly, Maetzold, Smith Motion carried. REALIGNMENT CHANGE PROTECT (WE ST 78TH STREET BETWEEN SHAUGHNESSY ROAD AND LOCHMERE TERRACE) REVIEWED; APPROVED Engineer Hoffman presented modifications to the plans for West 78th Skeet between Shaughnessy Road and Lochmere Terrace that had been achieved with assistance of Bloomington staff. Page 9 Minutes/Edina Citv Council/August - 17,1998 A letter, dated July 21,1998, requesting modifications was received from the board of the Dewey Hill 111 Townhome Association, 7786 Lochmere Terrace. The requested modifications were as follows: 1. Take 3 feet for street expansion between Lochmere Terrace and Shaughnessy Road on north side of 78th Street, allowing 2 4'2 -3 foot boulevard separating pedestrians from speeding cars on 78th Street and maintain trees. Maintenance would be responsibility of Townhome Association. 2. Ask Bloomington to obtain sidewalk easement from Northwest Tennis Club allowing the curb moved in further and take additional expansion room from commercial building rather than residential on north side of street. 3. Add a right turn land into Lochmere Terrace from westbound lane of 78th Street. Engineer Hoffman responded to the request that a portion of Item 1 can be accomplished and Bloomington has agreed to Item 2, that a sidewalk can remain on both sides of West 78* Street as well as, Item 3 can be accomplished with a substandard right turn lane. Engineer Hoffman added this is the only intersection that the City has adequate right-of-way to accomplish this turn lane. Northwest Athletic Club's parking ramp drive creates considerable challenge in terms of both horizontal and vertical alignment. Bloomington has met with the club and they have no plans to change the ramp driveway. Neither Northwest Athletic nor the City of Bloomington are willing to reconstruct the ramp access. This causes the inability to provide a boulevard on the westerly end of the Dewey HilI Townhome area just east of Shaughnessy Road. The City of Edina is constructing the roadway within current right-of-way. Bloomington owns the roadway south of the current center of the street and west of the Diversified Pharmaceutical Company (DPS) curb cut. Staff has worked with Bloomington on each parcel west of DPS and believes we have the best alignment that is obtainable. Engineer Hoffman pointed out that Marth Court wetlands is an area of concern. Our project is right at the edge of these wetlands which prevents any further southerly movement. Additionally, NSP is raising all their poles along West 78th Street to avoid cutting and trimmin g trees. Staff believes this is very important to maintain as much visual barrier to West 78" Street as possible. Engineer Hoffman explained staff was able to create some boulevard for the general area on the east end of the townhome area and presented a graphic depicting these modifications. Member Maetzold asked where snow would be stored with no boulevard. Engineer Hoffman said snow would need to be blown up onto the grassy area frequently. Resident Comments Bing Carh, Vice President of the Dewey HiU Ill Townhome Association, requested the plan be modified to move everything to the commercial or south side of the development. He believes Bloomington is getting the real benefit of this development as well as Northwest Racket will benefit with increased clientele. The citizens of Edina are only getting the mess and paying for it Mr. Carh believes a real hazard exists if the ramp at Northwest Racket is left as is. He voiced concern with traffic speed and safety when residents try to walk on the sidewalk. I Page 10 MinutesBdina City CounciVAugust 17,1998 Robert Ford, 7754 Lochmere Terrace, pointed out there could be as many as 800 employees entering and exiting each day at Diversified PhGmaceutical when they are operational. He inquired if one-half of the road would be completed this year. Engineer Hoffman said DPS is projected to open in three weeks and the plan is for road work to begin in September with the north half being completed this year. Council comments were: could the sidewalk go underneath the ramp; why not ask Northwest Athletic to relocate their ramp exit; could the relocation be a joint project and the cost shared between all interested parties; staff could ask the City of Bloomington to revisit the concern; could the ramp exit be heated to alleviate ice build up; would dollars increase the boulevard on the south side; would the townhouse association pay; and it’s time to move on and get the road built - it hurts the neighborhood a lot by not doing anything. Mayor Smith asked Mr. Carlin if the Townhome Association would be willing to share in the cost of the ramp relocation. Mr. Carlin responded that the Townhome Association would not pay for any modifications and it should not be Edina’s problem. He said he would talk to the Association about whether they would financially support any modifications. Tim Purdum, Secretary of the Dewey Hill I11 Townhome Association, suggested staff have a conversation with John Gatuso of DPS, again. ’Mr. Gatuso pledged full cooperation with the Council and the City of Edina to make this entire endeavor as palatable to the City and residents along West 78th Street as it is to the City of Bloomington. There might be a potential for assistance from DPS with the ramp relocation since they had agreed to expend funds on signalization previously. Council consensus was to direct Engineer Hoffman to move forward with the plan as presented and to converse with John Gatuso of DPS and with the City of Bloomington regarding concern with the Northwest Athletic parhg ramp. LIQUOR REFERENDUM QUESTION ALTERNATIVES PRESENTED; APPROVED FOR NOVEMBER 3,1998, BALLOT Assistant Manager Hughes explained that on July 20,1998, the Council adopted a motion to place a “split liquor” question on the ballot November 3, 1998, general election. Council directed staff to prepare alternative language for this question. Following a meeting with the City Attorney, alternative questions were prepared. Assistant Manager Hughes noted the City must also seek voter approval if it desires to issue Sunday sales licenses. A question has been prepared in this regard. (No alternatives have been prepared to this question as the issue seems straight forward.) Assistant Manager Hughes reviewed the following alternative questions: Alternative #1 to Q.1 (same as question - asked in 1975) “Shall the City of Edina, Minnesota, be authorized to issue on-sale liquor licenses to a private person or persons for the sale of intoxicating liquors in conjunction with a hotel or restaurant as defined in Minnesota Statutes, Section 340A,601?” Alternative #2 to Q.l Page 11 Minutes/Edina Citv CounciVAugust 17,1998 "Shall the City of Edina be authorized to issue up to (19 or some lesser number) of on-sale liquor licenses to hotels and restaurants as provided in Minnesota Statutes, Section 340A. 601?" Alternative #3 to Q.l "Shall the City of Edina be authorized to issue up to (19 or some lesser number) of on-sale liquor licenses to hotels and restaurants where meals are regularly prepared on the premises and served at tables as provided in Minnesota Statute, Section 340A.601?" Alternative #4 to Q.l "Shall the City of Edina be authorized to issue on-sale intoxicating liquor licenses to hotels and restaurants where meals are regularly prepared on the premises and served at tables as provided in Minnesota Statutes, Section 340A.601:" Alternative #5 to Q. 1 "Shall the City of Edina be authorized to issue on-sale intoxicating liquor licenses to hotels and restaurants in qualifying commercial districts where meals are regularly prepared on the premises and served at tables as provided in Minnesota Statutes, Section 340A.601?" Alternative #6 to 0.1 "Shall the City of Edina be authorized to issue on-sale intoxicating liquor licenses to hotels and restaurants in qumg commercial districts where meals are regularly prepared on the premises and served at tables with a seating capacity for at least 30 persons as provided in h4innesota Statutes, Section 340A.601?" Alternative #7 to Q.l "Shall the City of Edina be authorized to issue up to (19 or some other lesser number) on- sale intoxicating liquor licenses to hotels and restaurants in qu-g commercial districts where meals are regularly prepared on the premises and served at tables with a seating capacity for at least 30 persons as provided in Minnesota Statutes, Section 340A.601?" I I Assistant Manager Hughes said staff recommends the language offered previously on July 20, 1998. He reminded that even if the referendum were approved, the Council would need to adopt an enabling ordinance prior to issuing licenses. (The Council would not be obliged to adopt such an ordinance and issue licenses even if the referendum passed.) Staff believes the Council should retain as much authority as possible for the purpose of crafting a future ordinance. A simply- worded question would be advisable rather than a more detailed question would could inadvertently limit the discretion of this Council or ones in the future. Staff further recommends the following questions with respect to the November 3, 1998, referendum: Question I. "Shall the City of Edina be authorized to issue on-sale intoxicating liquor licenses to hotels and restaurants as provided in Minnesota Statutes, Section 340A.601?" Question 2. "Shall the City of Edina be authorized to issue licenses to hotels and restaurants to sell intoxicating liquor between the hours of 12 o'clock noon and 12 o'clock midnight on Sundays as provided in Minnesota Statutes, Section 340A.501?" Assistant Manager Hughes noted Police. Chief Bernhjelm submitted research on liquor enforcement in the area as had been directed by the Council at a previous meeting. Page 12 ,. Minutesfidina City CounciVAugust - 17,1998 Member Faust stated she would like the citizens to realize that the Statute would not allow a "Brown Derby" type establishment which was primarily a bar. Licenses should be defined and limited and citizens should know clearly what they are voting for. Member Hovland said he would reserve his questions until he received more information from the staff of area restaurants. Member Kelly said he would like more information on Question 5. He stated that in order to not have any confusion with the question on the ballot, the message to the residents should be conveyed as clearly, simply and with brevity as possible. He said he is interested in comments from the Chamber of Commerce and from area restaurants as well. Assistant Manager Hughes stated none of the questions have been ruled out, but he reminded the Council in order to preserve flexibility, much of the language in the proposed questions has been taken out of the State Statutes. He responded to Member Kelly that Question 5 only expands on statutory requirements. Mayor Smith asked if there is any delineation between hotels and restaurants. Attorney Gilligan said language is similar to that from the State Statute. Assistant Manager Hughes said Question 1 asks a basic question of the voters, giving the Council the maximum authority to craft the ordinance. He cautioned that care must be taken not to over- quahfy it. Member Maetzold inquired how information will be disseminated. Assistant Manager Hughes I said the City cannot-adopt a position, but could share facts about the process. He said he supposed VOTE YES and VOTE NO committees will be formed to present their views to voters. Proponent - comments: Warren Beck, 3216 Robinson Road, Deephaven, of'Gabbert and Beck, and a member of the Community Growth Alliance which could be /aka/"Vote Yes" Committee, voiced support with the staff's recommendation as presented. He voiced concern with Question 5, because of the confusion previously with the wine ordinance regarding the service of wine with or without the purchase of an entree. He said he is willing to work with staff when it is time to draft the new ordinance. He encouraged a decision be made on the question tonight allowing the restaurant owners to have adequate time to get information to the public. Member Hovland made a motion recommending the following questions be placed on the ballot for the November 3,1998, General Election. Question 1. "Shall the City of Edina be authorized to issue on-sale intoxicating liquor licenses to hotels and restaurants as provided in Minnesota Statutes, Section 340A.601?" Question 2. "Shall the City of Edina be authorized to issue licenses to hotels and restaurants to sell intoxicating liquor between the hours of 12 o'clock noon and 12 o'clock midnight on Sundays as provided in Minnesota Statutes, Section 340A.504?" Member Maetzold seconded the motion. Rollcalk Ayes: Hovland, Kelly, Maetzold Page 13 Minutes/Edina Citv Council/August - 17,1998 Nays: Faust, Smith Motion carried. I REPORT PRESENTED ON NUISANCE ORDINANCE STUDY Assistant Manager Hughes explained on July 6, 1998, the Council directed staff to research the City's existing nuisance ordinances and present findings at the August 17, 1998, regular meeting. The request was prompted by a complaint received from a resident concerning the need for an "eyesore" ordinance, particularly one that regulates parking of poorly conditioned or inoperable vehicles wluch are seldom or never used by their owners. Assistant Manager Hughes noted that staff undertook an extensive study of numerous provisions categorized as "nuisances" within the City Code. The most common of these nuisance complaints received at City HaII are 1) Dangerous or Substandard buildings; 2) Public Health Nuisances; 3) Garbage and Recycling Issues; 4) Unsightly or Dilapidated Housing; 5) Home Occupations/Garage Sales; 6) General Nuisances and Public Nuisances; 7) Noise; 8) Vehicles and RVs; and 9) Weeds. Planner Larsen presented a graphic display depicting resdts of the study: HEALTH AND SAFETY. Dangerous or Substandard Buildings' Public Health Nuisances Housing Code Violations General Nuisances Noise AEsmTIcIssuEs: Placement of Refuse and Recycling Home Occupations and Garage Sales Vehicles and RVs Yards and Vegetation Community Standard Violations Courts Require Identified Complainant Staffing Levels Voluntary Compliance Citation Health and Safety Activities Requiring Permits Drainage Trees and Shrubs Lot Line Issues Deed Restrictions RECOMMENDATIONS No Change To Nuisance Standards NEW ORDINANCES AND PROGRAMS Point of Sale Inspections Rental Housing Licensing COMPLAINT BASED ENFORCEMENT: NON-COMPLIANT BASED ENFORCEMENTT PRIVATE DEPUTES: Page 14 MinutesBdina Citv CounciVAugust - 17,1998 Neighborhood Sweeps i .1 1 City Court Prosecuting Attorney Halberg said staff requested .him to research local “City Court” systems. The City of Mhnetonka has had a “City Court’’ system in place for some time, as well as Brooklyn Park. Attempting to get nuisance problems resolved quickly can be a frustrating process as perception is that an unpainted home does not compare to a serious criminal case, but are both technically criminal charges. Nuisance charges are dealt with last or with the least amount of energy, normally. Minnetonka has a civil system rather than a criminal system. When staff is unable to resolve a situation, a citation is written with a fine schedule affixed. If the payment is not paid, it goes into the Court system for resolution. If the resident wants their day in Court, the City of Minnetonka has enlisted local lawyers to act as hearing officers. A randomly chosen attorney hears the case, with no counsel present either for the disgruntled resident or the city, and hopefully a resolution is reached. If the process does not work, the issue is referred back to the Court system. Attorney ’Halberg recommended not establishing a “City Court” system for the following reasons: 1) the City of Minnetonka has established a very expensive, elaborate system and has heard two cases, 2) most cases go smoothly and are resolved between staff and the established process, and 3) he questions whether a “City Court” system could be implemented as Edina is a Statutory City and Minnetonka is a Charter city. Member Faust inquired whether the original ”eyesore’’ complaint that predicated the Nuisance Ordinances is being examined. Planner Larsen noted that enforcement had been done and the violation corrected. Bob Malby, 6517 Limerick Drive, thanked staff for the extensive report his suggestion initiated. He referred to a statement in the report ...” staff believes current standards are quite effective and are generally enforceable”. These standards are not the case for residents on Limerick Drive and he believes junk is junk. Following a brief discussion, Mr. Malby said he does not know what else to do. Mayor Smith noted information about nuisances could be published in About Town regularly and staff will continue following through with all complaints from residents. “MINNESOTA HISTORICAL SOCIETY CERTIFIED LOCAL GOVERNMENT GRANT ACCEPTED Motion made by Member Maetzold and seconded by Member Faust approving acceptance of $5,950.00 in federal grant funds from the Minnesota Historical Society to assist in funding an historic context study and authorize the execution of the Certified Local Government Agreement by the Mayor, City Manager, and Heritage Preservation Board Chairman. Motion carried on rollcall vote - five ayes. CLAIMS PAID MoGon made by Member Maetzold approving the payment of claims as shown in detail on the Check Register dated August 13, 1998, and consisting of 35 pages: General Fund $382,286.24; Working Capital $8,540.34; Art Center $7,804.63; Golf Dome Fund $1,786.90; Swimming Pool Fund $14,109.80; Golf Course Fund $62,420.39; Ice Arena Fund $22,473.46; Edinborough/Centennial Lakes $29,092.04; Utility Fund $221,258.41; Storm Sewer Page 15 Minutes/Edina Citv CounciVAugust - 17,1998 Utility Fund $7,789.06; Recycling Program $34,101.17; Liquor Dispensary Fund $228,496.15; Construction Fund $173,912.16; Park Bond Fund $189,839.60; 1-494 Commission $1,448.16; TOTAL $1,385,358.51; and for confirmation of payment of the following claims as shown in detail on Check Register dated August 7, 1998, and consisting of 3 gages: General Fund $149,053.16; Working Capital $331.50; Art Center $50.00; Golf Course Fund $222.42; Edinborough/Centennial Lakes $22.39; Liquor Dispensary Fund $86,836.47; Construction Fund $10,276.62; 1-494 Commission $17,305.15; TOTAL $264,097.71. Member Faust seconded the motion. Rollcall: Ayes: Faust, Hovland, Kelly, Maetzold, Smiflt Motion carried. There being no further business on the Council Agenda, Mayor Smith declared the meeting adjourned at 10:14 P.M. Page 16