10-18-2004 CC MIN
MEETING OF THE ELK RIVER CITY COUNCIL
HELD AT THE ELK RIVER CITY HALL
MONDAY, OCTOBER 18,2004
Members Present:
Mayor Klinzing, Councilmembers Dietz, Kuester, Motin, and Tveite
Members Absent:
None
Staff Present:
Finance Director Lori Johnson, Director of Planning Michele McPherson,
Senior Planner Scott Harlicker, Planner Chris Leeseberg, City Engineer
Terry Maurer, City Attorney Peter Beck, Building and Environmental
Administrator Steve Rohlf, Parks and Recreation Director Bill Maertz, and
Recording Secretary Tina Allard
Also Present:
Planning Commissioner Howard Ropp
Parks and Recreation Commissioner Dawn Polston-Hark
1. Call Meeting- To Order
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the October 18, 2004, meeting of the Elk River City
Council was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by Mayor Klinzing.
2. Consider 10/18/2004 Agenda
Mayor Klinzing added additional Change Orders to Other Business.
Building and Environmental Administrator Steve Rohlf added two staff updates after Item
5.3.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER TVEITE AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER KUESTER TO APPROVE THE AGENDA AS AMENDED.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
3. Consider Consent Ag-enda
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER MOTIN AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER TVEITE TO APPROVE THE FOLLOWING CONSENT
AGENDA:
3.1.
COUNCIL MINUTES
. 10/04/04
. 10/11/04
CHECK REGISTER
CHANGE ORDERS AS OUTLINED IN THE STAFF REPORT
PAY ESTIMATES AS OUTLINED IN STAFF REPORT
RESOLUTION 04-79 ADOPTING AND LEVYING ASSESSMENTS FOR
UNPAID GARBAGE COLLECTION SERVICES AS OF SEPTEMBER 1,
2004
DEFER ASSESSMENT FORJUDYTH KATZNER, 2004 STREET
OVERLAY, 75-503-0410
3.2.
3.3.
3.4.
3.5.A.
3.5.B.
City Council Minutes
October 18, 2004
Page 2
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3.6. RESOLUTION 04-80 ACKNOWLEDGING CONTRIBUTION TO THE
CITY OF ELK RIVER
3.7. REQUEST BY RIVERSIDE PROPERTIES OF ELK RIVER, LLC FOR
LAND USE MAP AMENDMENT TO CHANGE LAND USE FROM CB
(CENTRAL BUSINESS) TO MR (MEDIUM DENSITY RESIDENTIAL),
CASE NO. LU 04-03-POSTPONED TO 11/15/04
3.8. REQUEST BY RIVERSIDE PROPERTIES OF ELK RIVER, LLC FOR
REZONING FROM C2 (OFFICE DISTRICT) TO PUD (PLANNED
UNIT DEVELOPMENT), PUBLIC HEARING-CASE NO. ZC 04-07-
POSTPONED TO 11/15/04
3.9. REQUEST BY RIVERSIDE PROPERTIES OF ELK RIVER, LLC FOR
PRELIMINARY PLAT APPROVAL GACKSON AVENUE VILLAS), CASE
NO. P 04-16-POSTPONED TO 11/15/04
3.10. REQUEST BY COMMONWEAL DEVELOPMENT FOR PRELIMINARY
PLAT APPROVAL (CARSON BUSINESS PARK), PUBLIC HEARING-
CASE NO. P 04-11-POSTPONED TO 11/15/04
3.11. ACCEPT SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN HALP AUS AND
THE CITY OF ELK RIVER
3.12. PROCLAMATION TO PROCLAIM NOVEMBER 2, 2004 AS ELECTION
JUDGE DAY
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
4. Open Mike
No one appeared for Open Mike.
5.1. Request bv Phoenix Entetprises for Vacation of Drainage and Utilit:y Easements Public
Hearing-Case No. EV 04-04
5.2. Request by Phoenix Enterprises for Conditional Use Permit for Professional Medical
Building Public Heaing-Case No. CU 04-27
Senior Planner Scott Harlicker submitted the staff report. Mr. Harlicker stated die applicant
is requesting to vacate a portion of a drainage and utility easement located on Lot 2, Block 2,
Hillside Crossing. He further stated the applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit to
construct a medical professional building at this site. He discussed access, parking, building
elevations, landscaping, signage, and d1e Planning Commission's recommendation.
Mayor l<1inzing opened the public hearing for the Easement Vacation and the Conditional
Use Permit.
Douglas Mathison, 19346 Dodge Street-Stated he was told the wooden fence located
behind Coborns would be extended.
Mayor Klinzing stated there has been no indication of this fence extension.
Rich Hardy, 19383 Dodge Street-Stated concerns regarding traffic in the area.
Mayor l<1inzing closed the public hearing for both items.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER TVEITE AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER DIETZ TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 04-81 FOR VACATING
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October 18, 2004
Page 3
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STREET, DRAINAGE, AND UTILITY EASEMENTS, CASE NO. 04-04 WITH
THE FOLLOWING CONDITION:
1. ALL COMMENTS OF THE CITY ENGINEER SHALL BE
ADDRESSED.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
-------------------------
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER MOTIN AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER DIETZ TO APPROVE THE CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT BY PHOENIX ENTERPRISES TO CONSTRUCT A MEDICAL
BUILDING WITH THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS:
1. ALL COMMENTS OF THE CITY ENGINEER ARE ADDRESSED.
2. CROSS ACCESS AND PARKING AGREEMENTS ARE RECORDED
BETWEEN THIS PROPERTY AND COBORNS.
3. THE DUMPSTER ENCLOSURE SHALL BE CONSTRUCTED OF
THE SAME MATERIALS AS THE BUILDING.
4. ALL LANDSCAPED AREAS SHALL BE IRRIGATED.
5. SIGNAGE SHALL COMPLY WITH THE HILLSIDE CROSSING
PUD AGREEMENT.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
--------------------------
Mayor Klinzing asked Ron Touchette to come forward and speak to the Council regarding
YMCA news.
Ron Touchette. YMCA Boardmember-Stated the Northstar YMCA has selected the site
(of 2 offered by the city) by Home Depot for their location. He stated it was the best site
due to its size and usability. He also discussed YMCA partnerships and programming
efforts.
5.3. Request by Rich Schulz IR&D Sales) for Easement Vacation Public Hearing--Case No. EV
04-05
Building and Environmental Administrator Stephen Rohlf submitted the staff report. Mr.
Rohlf stated Richard Schulz is requesting to vacate a portion of a utility easement on Lot 2,
Block 1, of Elk River Plaza Third Addition because an air conditioning unit was installed in
the utility easement. He stated there is no other location for the air conditioning unit to be
relocated other than on the roof, which would cause significant alterations to the existing
building. Mr. Rohlf stated the adjacent property owner (Dolphin Carwash) will allow a new
easement to be located on his property.
Mayor Klinzing opened the public heating. There being no one to speak to this issue, Mayor
Klinzing closed the public heating.
City Councill'vlinutes
October 18, 2004
Page 4
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Councilmember Dietz questioned how this situation happened and if this is something an
inspector or the applicant should have caught. He also questioned of there is a way to stop
this from happening again in the future.
Mr. Rohlf stated that the ultimate responsibility is on the property owner to know where the
easements are located. He stated that it is a rare occurrence for this type of situation to
happen.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER TVEITE AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER MOTIN TO ADOPT RESOLUTION 04.82 FOR
VACATING STREET, DRAINAGE, AND UTILITY EASEMENTS, CASE NO.
EV 04-05 WITH THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS:
1. MR. SCHULZ PROVIDE THE CITY THE APPROPRIATE
DOCUMENTATION (WITH SIGNATURES) TO RECORD A NEW
EASEMENT AS DESCRIBED IN THE EXHIBIT PREPARED BY JOHN
OLIVER AND ASSOCIATES.
2. MR. SCHULTZ SHALL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ALL COSTS
ASSOCIATED WITH THE RELOCATION OF ALL UTILITIES, DUE
TO MOVING THE EASEMENT.
3. THE NEW EASEMENT SHALL BE DEDICATED AND ALL
UTILITIES BE RELOCATED PRIOR TO THE VACATION BEING
LEGITIMIZED AND RECORDED.
MOTION CARRIED 5.0.
s.3.A. New NPDES Permits and Inspections
Mr. Rohlf stated that with the new rules for NPDES permits, many contractors are not
complying so staff will stop construction on job sites until the NPDES requirements are
met.
s.3.B. Update on Great River Energy Peaking: Plant
Mr. Rohlf stated that Great River Energy (GRE) will not be building a peaking plant in Elk
River in 2007 as planned. He stated that the city is working with GRE in hopes of having
another plant constructed in 2009. Mr. Rohlf reviewed the project regarding tax issues with
the Sherco Power Plant and Sherburne County.
SA. Request by 10-24 Developers for Preliminat;y Plat Approval l\Vindsor Meadows) Public
Hearing:-Case No. P 04-18
Planner Chris Leeseberg submitted the staff report. Mr. Leeseberg stated the applicant, 10-
24 Developers, is requesting a Preliminary Plat of Windsor Meadows, a 33 lot single family
cluster development. He discussed density bonuses, the plat layout, landscaping, and the
recommendations of the Planning and Parks and Recreation Commissions.
Mayor Klinzing opened the public hearing. There being no one to speak to this issue, Mayor
Klinzing closed the public hearing.
City Council Minutes
October 18, 2004
Page 5
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Mayor Klinzing questioned if this site has indications of historical significance due to the
addition of Condition #18 of the Preliminary Plat requirements.
1'Ir. Leeseberg stated that this condition is added to all plats in case anything of historical
significance is revealed at any site. He stated it is a request of the Heritage Preservation
Commission.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER MOTIN AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER DIETZ TO APPROVE THE PRELIMINARY PLAT FOR
WINDSOR MEADOWS WITH THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS:
1. A DEVELOPERS AGREEMENT OUTLINING THE TERMS AND
CONDITIONS OF THE PLAT APPROVAL AND INSTALLATION OF
IMPROVEMENTS BE PREPARED AND EXECUTED PRIOR TO
RELEASING THE PLAT FOR RECORDING.
2. ALL COMMENTS OF THE CITY ENGINEER SHALL BE
ADDRESSED.
3. A HOMEOWNER'S ASSOCIATION DOCUMENT IS PREPARED
SUBJECT TO THE CITY ATTORNEY'S REVIEW AND APPROVAL
PRIOR TO FINAL PLAT.
4. STREET LIGHTS BE INSTALLED AS REQUIRED BY ELK RIVER
UTILITIES.
5. A LETTER OF CREDIT BE PROVIDED TO THE CITY IN THE
AMOUNT OF 100% OF THE COSTS OF THE PUBLIC
IMPROVEMENTS.
6. UPON COMPLETING ALL OF THE IMPROVEMENTS AND HAVING
THEM ACCEPTED BY THE CITY, A WARRANTY BOND IN THE
AMOUNT OF 25% OF THE IMPROVEMENT COSTS SHALL BE
SUBMITTED TO THE CITY FOR THE PERIOD OF ONE YEAR.
7. SURFACE WATER MANAGEMENT FEE IN THE AMOUNT
REQUIRED BY THE CITY AT THE TIME OF FINAL PLAT BE PAID
PRIOR TO RELEASING THE PLAT FOR RECORDING.
8. A SEALCOAT FEE IN THE AMOUNT TO BE DETERMINED BY THE
CITY ENGINEER BE PAID PRIOR TO RELEASING THE PLAT FOR
RECORDING.
9. A GRADING AND EROSION CONTROL PLAN BE APPROVED BY
THE CITY ENGINEER PRIOR TO THE ISSUANCE OF BUILDING
PERMITS.
10. A DEVELOPMENT PLAN BE APPROVED BY THE CITY ENGINEER
PRIOR TO THE ISSUANCE OF BUILDING PERMITS.
11. ALL GRADING BE CERTIFIED PRIOR TO THE ISSUANCE OF
BUILDING PERMITS.
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October 18, 2004
Page 6
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12. ALL MAILBOXES BE CLUSTERED.
13. ANY TREES OFF SITE NEAR THE LIMIT OF GRADING THAT ARE
TO BE PRESERVED SHALL BE FENCED WITH A SNOW FENCE AT
THE DRIP LINE TO PREVENT GRADING, COMPACTION, OR
STORAGE OF EQUIPMENT, DEBRIS OR MATERIALS. STAFF SHALL
INSPECT FENCING PRIOR TO CLEARING OR GRADING
COMMENCING.
14. ALL DISTURBED AREAS SHALL BE GRADED AND SEEDED.
15. MAINTENANCE AND OWNERSHIP OF THE OUTLOTS SHALL BE
THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION
AND SHALL BE INCLUDED IN THE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION
AGREEMENT.
16. ALL APPROPRIATE EASEMENTS SHALL BE SHOWN ON THE
PLAT.
17. A REVISED LANDSCAPE PLAN SHALL BE PROVIDED THAT
COMPLIES WITH THE LANDSCAPE ORDINANCE.
18. ANY ITEM OR CONDITION FOUND THAT INDICATES THE SITE IS
LIKELY TO YIELD INFORMATION IMPORTANT TO PRE-HISTORY
OR HISTORY SHALL BE REPORTED TO THE CITY IMMEDIATELY.
FURTHER, THE CITY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO STOP WORK
AUTHORIZED IN ITS APPROVAL UNTIL THE SITE IS
APPROPRIATELY INVESTIGATED AND WORK IS AUTHORIZED TO
CONTINUE BY THE CITY.
19. THE ACCESS (212TH AVENUE) FROM WINDSOR PARK 1ST & 2ND
ADDITIONS BE TEMPORARILY BLOCKED UNTIL THE FINAL LIFT
OF BITUMINOUS IS INSTALLED AND/OR 50% OF THE HOMES
ARE OCCUPIED.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
5.5. Request by Guardian Ang;els of Elk River for a Conditional Use Permit for Parking: Lot
Expansion Public Hearing:-Case No. CU 04-26
Planner Chris Leeseberg submitted the staff report. Mr. Leeseberg stated that Guardian
Angels is requesting a parking lot expansion to provide more visitor parking. The applicant
received approval for additional parking spaces in July 2004 and is now proposing an
additional 25 parking spaces. Tbe site exceeds the parking space requirements. The Planning
Commission recommended approval of the request.
Mayor Klinzing opened the public hearing
Mark Pederson, Representing Guardian Angels-Stated that after approval of a Conditional
Use Permit in July, Guardian Angels re-evaluated their parking situation again and came up
with more options for additional parking. He further stated that he is working with Fairview
on creating cross access and cross parking agreements.
City Council Minutes
October 18, 2004
Page 7
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Mayor Klinzing closed the public hearing.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER TVEITE AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER DIETZ TO APPROVE THE CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT BY GUARDIAN ANGELS WITH THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS:
1. IF FUTURE EXPANSION OF PARKING IS DESIRED, THE
APPLICANT SHALL APPLY FOR AN AMENDMENT TO THE
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT.
2. NEW PARKING AREAS SHALL HAVE CONCRETE CURB AND
GUTTER.
3. ANY ITEM OR CONDITION FOUND THAT INDICATES THE SITE IS
LIKELY TO YIELD INFORMATION IMPORTANT TO PRE-HISTORY
OR HISTORY SHALL BE REPORTED TO THE CITY IMMEDIATELY.
FURTHER, THE CITY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO STOP WORK
AUTHORIZED IN ITS APPROVAL UNTIL THE SITE IS
APPROPRIATELY INVESTIGATED AND WORK IS AUTHORIZED TO
CONTINUE BY THE CITY.
4. CROSS PARKING AND ACCESS EASEMENTS SHALL BE RECORDED
AGAINST BOTH PARCELS (GUARDIAN ANGELS AND FAIRVIEW
CLINIC).
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
5.6. Request bv Dean Bitner for Conditional Use Permit for Home Occupation Public Hearing-
Case No. CU 04-24
Senior Planner Scott Harlicker submitted the staff report. Mr. Harlicker stated the applicant
is requesting a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) to operate a contractor business as a home
occupation. Specifically, the use of a vehicle in excess of 26,000 pounds. He discussed the
outdoor storage locations and screening requirements from the neighbors. Mr. Harlicker
stated that he would like to add two more conditions to the CUP requirements: 1.) that the
site plan be revised to show the location of the outdoor storage area, and; 2.) that no
materials be stored outside. He stared that if the applicant added any additional equipment
to his business, then he must come back to the city for a review of his CUP.
Mayor Klinzing opened the public hearing. There being no one to speak to this issue, Mayor
Klinzing closed the public hearing.
Mayor Klinzing stated concerns of heavy equipment using the shared driveway.
Councilmember I<uester stated she is concerned about these types of home occupations.
She stated they bring noise to neighborhoods and can start to look like a work yard.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER TVEITE AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER DIETZ TO ALLOW DEAN BITNER A HOME
OCCUPATION FOR A CONTRACTOR BUSINESS WITH THE FOLLOWING
CONDITIONS:
City Council Minutes
October 18, 2004
Page 8
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1. THE OUTDOOR STORAGE BE LOCATED BEHIND THE EXISTING
STORAGE BUILDING AND 6 EVERGREEN TREES WITH A
MINIMUM HEIGHT OF 6-8 FEET BE PLANTED FOR SCREENING.
2. THE APPLICANT SHALL PROVIDE A LIST OF OVERSIZED
VEHICLES/ HEAVY EQUIPMENT CURRENTLY USED FOR THE
OPERATION OF HIS BUSINESS, AND THAT AN INCREASE IN THIS
NUMBER WILL REQUIRE A REVIEW OF THE CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT.
3. THE SITE PLAN BE REVISED TO SHOW THE LOCATION OF THE
OUTDOOR STORAGE AREA.
4. NO MATERIALS BE STORED OUTSIDE.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
5.7. Request by I<.in!?horn Construction for Conditional Use Permit to Construct NAPA Auto
Facility Mississippi Rid!?e Public Heating--Case No. CU 04-25
Planner Chris Leeseberg submitted the staff report. Mr. Leeseberg stated Kinghorn
Construction is requesting a Conditional Use Permit to construct a NAPA Auto store. He
discussed hours of operation, building design standards, parking, lighting, landscaping, and
the Planning Commission's recommendation.
Mayor Klinzing opened the public hearing. There being no one to speak to this issue, Mayor
Klinzing closed the public hearing.
Councilmember Morin stated that at the Planning Commission meeting he suggested a
condition be added stating that no auto repair be allowed outside the building. He stated the
condition was absent from the CUP requirements and he would like it added to the
conditions.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER MOTINAND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER DIETZ TO APPROVE THE CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT BY KINGHORN CONSTRUCTION WITH THE FOLLOWING
CONDITIONS:
1. ALL COMMENTS OF THE CITY ENGINEER SHALL BE
ADDRESSED.
2. IF THERE IS TO BE AN EXPANSION OF EITHER THE BUILDING
OR THE PARKING LOT, THE APPLICANT SHALL APPLY FORAN
AMENDMENT TO THE CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT.
3. THE ENTRANCE OF THE BUILDING NEEDS TO BE CLEARLY
DEFINED AND VISIBLE AS INDICATED IN THE MISSISSIPPI
RIDGE PUD DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS.
4. NO SALES OR DISPLAY OF MERCHANDISE OUTSIDE THE
BUILDING.
5. NO AUTO REPAIR BE ALLOWED OUTSIDE THE BUILDING.
City Council Minutes
October 18, 2004
Page 9
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MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
5.8. Request bv MetroPlains for Preliminat;y Plat ApprovallJackson Square) Public Hearinf-
Case No. P 04-19
Director of Planning Michele McPherson submitted the staff report. Ms. McPherson stated
MetroPlains is requesting Preliminary Plat approval to replat a lot for a redevelopment
project known as Jackson Block. She discussed transportation issues related to the project
and the recommendations of the Planning and Parks and Recreation Commissions.
Mayor Klinzing opened the public hearing. There being no one to speak to this issue, Mayor
Klinzing closed the public hearing.
Councilmember Dietz questioned if the title of this plat has been cleared.
City Attorney Peter Beck stated the city owns the property and is working on obtaining clear
title, which will have to be resolved and vacated before final plat approval.
Councilmember Tveite stated he is in favor of keeping parking spaces on Main Street rather
than creating a right turn lane to Jackson Avenue.
Mayor Klinzing questioned if any improvements would be made to any utilities while work
was being done on these projects. Mr. Maurer stated that most likely there would not be any
improvements needed but the sewer lines will be checked to see if anyone is still utilizing old
lines.
Mayor Klinzing questioned whose responsibility it would be to clear up these utility issues.
Mr. Maurer stated it would be the responsibility of the person working on the project at the
time to fL"{ them; but who will pay for these matters is another question.
Councilmember Kuester questioned if 8-9 parking spaces are planned behind the new
building.
Ms. McPherson stated there would be approximately 19 at-grade spaces.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER DIETZ AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER TVEITE TO APPROVE THE PRELIMINARY PLAT FOR
METROPLAINS FOR THE JACKSON BLOCK REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT
WITH THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS:
1. A DEVELOPERS AGREEMENT BE PREPARED AND EXECUTED
OUTLINING THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE PLAT
APPROVAL PRIOR TO RELEASING THE PLAT FOR RECORDING.
2. SURFACE WATER MANAGEMENT FEE BE PAID IN THE AMOUNT
REQUIRED BY THE CITY AT THE TIME OF FINAL PLAT PRIOR TO
RELEASING THE PLAT FOR RECORDING.
3. WATER ACCESSIBILITY FEES IN THE AMOUNT DETERMINED BY
THE CITY BE PAID TO ELK RIVER MUNICIPAL UTILITIES PRIOR
TO RELEASING THE PLAT FOR RECORDING.
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October 18, 2004
Page 10
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4. THE CITY ENGINEER'S COMMENTS BE INCORPORATED INTO
THE PLANS.
5. ANY TREES OFF SITE OR ON SITE, NEAR THE LIMIT OF
GRADING THAT ARE TO BE PRESERVED, SHALL BE FENCED
WITH A SNOW FENCE AT THE DRIP LINE TO PREVENT
GRADING, COMPACTION, OR STORAGE OF EQUIPMENT, DEBRIS
OR MATERIALS. STAFF SHALL INSPECT THE FENCING PRIOR TO
GRADING COMMENCING.
6. ANY ITEM OR CONDITION FOUND THAT INDICATES THE SITE IS
LIKELY TO YIELD INFORMATION IMPORTANT TO PRE-HISTORY
OR HISTORY SHALL BE REPORTED TO THE CITY IMMEDIATELY.
FURTHER, THE CITY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO STOP WORK
AUTHORIZED IN ITS APPROVAL UNTIL THE SITE IS
APPROPRIATELY INVESTIGATED AND WORK IS AUTHORIZED.
7. CASH SHALL BE PAID FOR PARK DEDICATION.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
5.9. Request by MetroPlains for Preliminaq Plat Approval (Bluff Block) Public Hearing-Case
No. P 04-20
Director of Planning Michele McPherson submitted the staff report. Ms. McPherson stated
MetroPlains is requesting preliminary plat approval to replat a lot for a redevelopment
project known as Bluff Block. She discussed transportation issues related to the project and
the recommendation of the Planning Commission. She stated the Parks and Recreation
Commission indicated it may recommend cash for park dedication. Ms. McPherson stated
the Commission believed if a walkway was installed along the river it may erode the bank
due to the slope. She stated the Commission felt it may be more appropriate to utilize
existing sidewalks.
Mayor Klinzing opened the public hearing.
Mike Rafferty, 653 Main Street-Stated concerns with transportation and parking issues. He
stated he heard that his property was now included in the TIF district and he is concerned
about how this affects him. He further stated he is surprised to hear about the river walk
being scaled back by the city as they were promoting it heavy early on to attract pedestrian
traffic and to sell downtown business owners on the redevelopment project. He would like
to see walkways and large scale windows along the riverfront.
Councilmember Motin stated that Mr. Rafferty's property was included in the TIF district in
order for the city to qualify for having the TIF project. He couldn't guarantee that Mr.
Rafferty's property would never get redeveloped but stated that the city has no plans at this
time.
Dawn Polston-Hark, representing the Parks and Recreation Commission-Stated the
Commission is concerned about mixing commercial and residential uses on the first floor.
Mayor Klinzing closed the public hearing.
City Council Minutes
October 18, 2004
Page 11
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Mayor !<:linzing stated she is surprised the Parks and Recreation Commission is backing off
on taking Outlot A for park dedication. She stated the city has been trying to market this
project by utilizing the riverfront. She stated she doesn't want to miss any opportunities of
promoting the river front area of the downtown. Due to the zoning and use of the area,
Mayor Klinzing felt the river front area should be more manicured and less wild and scenic.
She questioned if an engineer has taken a look at the slopes to make any determinations.
Ms. McPherson stated the contours of the slope are steep and extremely wooded. She stated
the walkway would need to be near the water's edge or in the fire access area in the upper
portion of the bluff.
Councilmember Tveite stated that Parks and Recreation Commission believed Outlot A to
be over valued. He stated the Commission would like to come back later and use park
dedication monies to have a path along the river.
Mayor !<:linzing stated she is concerned about the building design. She would like to see the
buildings have large windows along the river side to take advantage of the views. She wants
the buildings to look great from front and back and wants accessibility to remain to the river
frontage.
Councilmember Kuester concurred with the Mayor on the importance of utilizing the river
frontage. She would like the area to be pedestrian friendly with lots of seating and sceruc
views. She is also concerned about parking.
Councilmember Motin stated trees can be trimmed back for open views without having to
cut them down.
Councilmember Dietz questioned when a decision would have to made on adding turn lanes
on Main Street at Parrish Avenue. He stated he gets many complaints regarding their being
no right turn lane from Main Street to Parrish Avenue.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER MOTIN AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER KUESTER TO APPROVE THE PRELIMINARY PLAT TO
METRO PLAINS FOR THE BLUFF BLOCK WITH THE FOLLOWING
CONDITIONS:
1. A DEVELOPERS AGREEMENT BE PREPARED AND EXECUTED
OUTLINING THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE PLAT
APPROVAL PRIOR TO RELEASING THE PLAT FOR RECORDING.
2. SURFACE WATER MANAGEMENT FEE BE PAID IN THE AMOUNT
REQUIRED BY THE CITY AT THE TIME OF FINAL PLAT PRIOR TO
RELEASING THE PLAT FOR RECORDING.
3. WATER ACCESSIBILITY FEES IN THE AMOUNT DETERMINED BY
THE CITY BE PAID TO ELK RIVER MUNICIPAL UTILITIES PRIOR
TO RELEASING THE PLAT FOR RECORDING.
4. THE CITY ENGINEER'S COMMENTS BE INCORPORATED INTO
THE PLANS.
City Council :rviinutes
October 18, 2004
Page 12
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5, ANY TREES OFF SITE OR ON SITE, NEAR THE LIMIT OF
GRADING THAT ARE TO BE PRESERVED, SHALL BE FENCED
WITH A SNOW FENCE AT THE DRIP LINE TO PREVENT
GRADING, COMPACTION, OR STORAGE OF EQUIPMENT, DEBRIS
OR MATERIALS, STAFF SHALL INSPECT THE FENCING PRIOR TO
GRADING COMMENCING.
6. ANY ITEM OR CONDITION FOUND THAT INDICATES THE SITE IS
LIKELY TO YIELD INFORMATION IMPORTANT TO PRE-HISTORY
OR HISTORY SHALL BE REPORTED TO THE CITY IMMEDIATELY.
FURTHER, THE CITY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO STOP WORK
AUTHORIZED IN ITS APPROVAL UNTIL THE SITE IS
APPROPRIATELY INVESTIGATED AND WORK IS AUTHORIZED.
7. PARK DEDICATION IN CASH IS PREFERRED.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
5.10. Request by City of Elk River for Ordinance Amendment to Land Use Regulations Section
30-796 to ClaritY Fencing- Requirements for Pools Public Hearing--Case No. OA 04-03
Senior Planner Scott Harlicker submitted the staff report. Mr. Harlicker stated the current
regulations regarding fencing around swimming pools have unclear language that the city
would like to clarify. He reviewed the issues and the proposed new ordinance.
Mayor Klinzing opened the public hearing.
Rich Schultz, 19173 Zane Street-Questioned how existing pool owners would be notified
of the new rules and the time frame of when they would have to comply.
Mr. Harlicker stated that existing pool owners would be grandfathered in and not have to
confonn to the new ordinance.
Mayor Klinzing closed the public hearing.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER TVEITE AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER DIETZ TO ADOPT ORDINANCE 04-15 AMENDING
SECTIONS 30-796 AND 30-1007 OF THE CITY CODE OF ORDINANCES
RELATING TO FENCES AROUND SWIMMING POOLS. MOTION CARRIED
5-0.
5.11. Line Avenue Cul-de-sac Update
City Engineer Terry Maurer stated he met with various city/county staff to discuss issues
related to installing the Line Avenue cul-de-sac. He reviewed these issues as outlined in his
staff report. He stated the project should take place in spring 2005 and the cost estimate
would be approximately $80,000. Mr. Maurer stated the county would program a signal at
County Road 12 and Twin Lakes Road in their Capital Improvement program if the city
could predict the year the intersection would meet the warrants. He further stated that if the
warrants are not met that year the county would have to re-program the signalization
project.
City COlUlcil I\1inutes
October 18. 2004
Page 13
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Councilmember Tveite questioned how the Police and Fire Chiefs felt about the closure of
Line Avenue.1\1r. Maurer stated that Chief Beahen didn't have any issues with the closure.
Chief West would have liked Line Avenue to remain open as an available optional route but
he is okay with it,
Councilmember Morin questioned how long it would be between the programming and the
installation of the signal lights at Twin Lakes Road and County Road 12, He recommended
that the warrant study be done as soon as possible in order to get on Sherburne County's
programming schedule for this intersection,
5,12, Engineering Update
Mr, Maurer provided an update on the engineering meeting between the city and the county,
He stated the next meeting with administrators and elected officials is scheduled for
Tuesday, October 26, 2004, at 3:30 p,m" at City HalL
Mr, Maurer discussed the County Road 40 turnback. He stated the county indicated it would
pay for the left turn lanes onto County Road 40 at County Roads 12 and 13,
Mr, Maurer stated he sent a letter and a copy of the PowerPoint presentation (submitted to
the city by a resident) to Mn/DOT regarding drainage concerns near the Highway 169 and
County Road 33 interchange, In the letter he asked Mn/DOT to review these issues and to
keep him apprised of how they will be resolved,
Mr, Maurer briefly discussed progress on the 2005 street reconstruction project, He
indicated topographic and soil boring information would be gathered over the next several
weeks.
Mr, Maurer discussed the street disruption schedule for Elk Ridge Center,
6,1. Utilities Update
Councilmember Dietz provided an update of the Elk River Municipal Utilities meeting held
on October 11, 2004,
6,2, YMCA Update
An update was provided earlier in the meeting regarding the YMCA. Mayor Klinzing stated
that the Northstar YMCA has been partnering with neighboring communities, She stated
the YMCA is always looking for more volunteers,
6,3, NCDA Update
Councilmember Kuester stated that there would be an informational update meeting held at
Connexus Energy on Wednesday, October 20, 2004 at 7:00 p,m,
Councilmember Kuester stated there was a public hearing regarding a fare increase for the
commuter bus service. She stated there weren't enough options presented and many riders
stated they wouldn't pay the $1.00 increase, Riders indicated they would go to either Coon
Rapids or Maple Grove to catch the bus at a cheaper rate, She stated the NCDA moved to
increase the fare in June 2005 by ,so,
City Council1v1inutes
October 18, 2004
Page 14
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MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER KUESTER AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER TVEITE TO HAVE THE CITY WRITE A LETTER TO
THE SHERBURNE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS THANKING THEM FOR
THEIR CONTRIBUTION TO THE NORTHSTAR CORRIDOR TO ALLOW
THE BUS SERVICE TO REMAIN IN OPERATION. MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
6.4. Parks & Recreation Update
a. General Activities
Parks and Recreation Director Bill Maertz provided an update of park development
projects.
He stated Sherburne County is updating their master park plan and are interested in
a establishing a regional park in Elk River. He stated the county is willing to
collaborate on grant writing efforts to the DNR for land acquisition.
Mr. Maertz stated that the city is meeting with Tiller Corporation to discuss land
acquisition near Top of the World Park.
Councilmember Dietz directed staff to review the zoning of the city water tower
site near Orono Park and to see if the Parks and Recreation Commission is
interested in incorporating it into Orono Park.
b. Tobacco in Parks Proposal
:rv1r. Maertz stated the Parks and Recreation Commission approved a tobacco use
policy at youth activities in city parks as outlined in his staff report.
Councilmember Dietz questioned if smoking is a problem at the skate park.
Mr. Maertz stated that staff has tried some no smoking enforcement but that there
is no policy in place for enforcement.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER DIETZ AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER TVEITE TO APPROVE THE TOBACCO USE
POLICY IN CITY PARKS. MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Councilmember Motin questioned the def111ition of a youth recreational facility; is it
only when kids are using a facility or is it all the time?
Mr. Maertz stated that if adults only are using a facility, then they could smoke, but
if any kids are there, then they can't.
6.5. HRA Update
Councilmember Motin stated that most of the HRA update was discussed with the approval
of the Preliminary Plat of both the Bluff and Jackson Blocks previously on the agenda. He
also stated the HRA reviewed some general concepts for redevelopment projects for the
north side of Highway 10.
City Council Minutes
October 18, 2004
Page 15
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7. Other Business
7.1. Chanr;e Orders
Finance Director Lori Johnson stated she received additional change orders after
the Council packet was distributed. She stated the Council is requested to approve
the change orders reducing the amount for the Collins contract by $16,146.15.
Councilmember Dietz questioned if Collins was waiting for their insurance
company to pay the city and now the city will be informing Collins that the city is
subtracting what it paid out to finish the repairs for water damage. He stated that
Collins would then have to work out payment issues with their insurance company.
Ms. Johnson stated this was correct and the city has tried numerous times to get
this issue resolved through Kraus Anderson.
MOVED BY COUNCILMEMBER TVEITE AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILMEMBER DIETZ TO APPROVE THE CHANGE ORDERS
AS OUTLINED IN THE STAFF REPORT. MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
8. Staff Updates
Ms. Johnson requested health insurance renewals be added to the November 8 worksession
agenda if the information is available in time. It was Council consensus to include this item
on the agenda.
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Ms. Johnson stated Orluck Industries would be hosting a ground breaking ceremony on
Thursday, October 21, 2004 at 10:00 a.m. and the Council was invited to attend.
9. Adiournment
There being no further business, Mayor Klinzing adjourned the meeting of the Elk River
City Council at 9:00 p.m.
Minutes prepared by Tina Allard
~'7/LAi4A
Joan Schmidt
City Clerk