01/08/1996 - 00001866�
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THE MINOTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE FRYDLES CITY COUNCIL OE
JANUARY 8, 1996
The Regular Meeting of the Fridley City Council was ca3led to order
by Mayor Nee at 7:32 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
Mayor Nee led the Council and audience in the Pledge of Allegiance
to the Flag.
ROLL CALL°
MEMBER5 PRESENT: Mayor Nee, Councilwoman Jorgenson, Counoilman
Billings, Councilman Schneider and Councilwoman
Bolkcom
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
COUNCIL MEETING, DECEMBER 11, 1995:
Councilman Schneider stated that on Page 14, the first line, the
insertion of the word "transfer" would better clarify this motion.
MOTION by Councilman Billings to amend the first 3ine on Page l�
of the minutes by inserting the word "transfer1° between the words
11reserve1° and �'by." Seconded by Councilman Schneider,
MOTYON by Councilman Schneider to approve the minutes with the
above amendment. Seconded by Councilwoman Jorgenson. �Jpon a voice
vote,all voting aye, Mayor Nee declared the motion carried
unanimously.
APPROVAL OF PROPOSED CONSENT AGENDA:
OLD BUSINESS•
1. ORDINANCE NO. 1061 UNDER SECTION 12.07 OF THE CITY CHARTER a0
VACATE STREETS AND ALLEYS AND TO AMEND APPENDIX C OF THE CITY
CODE (VACATION REOUEST, SAV #95-04. BY GARY HEDMAN) (WARD 31:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, sta�ted that a dwelling was cora-
structed on top of a ten foot utility easementd and khis
vacation is requested to clear title. He s�ated that no
public utilities are located in this easement, and the Plan-
ning Commission approved the vacation subject to the peti-
tioner dedicating a new utility easement and commissioning a
survey to veriPy the location of the new easementa
WAIVED THE SECOND READING AND ADOPTED ORDINANCE NO. 1061 ON
SECOND READYNG AND ORDERED PUBLICATION WYTH THE STIPULATION
THAT THE PETITIONER DEDICATS A NEW UTILITY EASEMENT AND SUBMIT
A VERIFYING SURVEY.
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FRIDLEY CITY COIINCIL MEETING OF JANUARY 8, 1996 PAGE 2
2, ORDINANCE NO. 1062 UNDER SECTION 12.07 OF THE CITY CHARTER TO
VACATE STREETS AND ALLEYS AND TO AMEND APPENDIX C OF THE CITY
CODE (VACATION RE9UEST, SAV #95-05, BY INDUSTRIAL EQUITIES)
(WARD 11•
3e
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that thi5 request is 7Eor the
vacation of a drainage and utilbty easement at Northco Busi-
ness Park. He stated that if this vacation is approved, a 24
inch storm water pipe would have to be relocated. IIe stated
that the Planning Commission recommended approval of this
vacation with two stipulationse
WAIVED THE SECOND READING AND ADOPTEID ORDINANCE NO. 1062 ON
SECOND READING AND ORDERED PUBLICATION WITH THE STIPULATYON
THAT THE PETITIONER SHALL MAINTAIN 'PHE STORM WATER DRAINAGE
SYSTEM FROM THE MANHOLE LOCATED IN THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF THE
PARRING LOT AND THE OUTLET LOCATED AT THE INTERSECTION OF 73RD
AVENUE AND THE EAST UNIVERSITY AVENUE SERVICE ROADe ALSOe TAE
EETITIONER SHALL E%ECIITE AND RECORD AGAINST THE PROPERTY A
STORM WATER POND MAINTENANCE AGREEMENTD
YLA'1' itL'�VUL'�J'1'. Y.S. $y7-Vl, HNL VAI=H'
BY ROTTLUND COMPANY. INC. (WARD 11:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, statedl that the oriqinal public
hearings were conducted July 24 and August 14, 1995. FIe
stated that the site plan for this development in the South-
west Quadrant has subsequently been revised and includes the
following elements: 62 owner-occupied, three-story attached
townhomes on the east side of Third Street anci 60 owner-
occupied, detached townhomes on the west side of Third Street
with a mixture of one and two story units to sell between
$90,OD0 and $120,000. He recommended that Council establish
January 22, 1996 as the date for the public hearing regarding
the revised plans.
SET THE PUBLIC HEARING DATE OF JANUARY 22, 1996 FOR THE
ROTTLUND COMPANY, INC. REQUESTB.
NEW BUSINESS:
4. FIRST READING OF AN ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING A NEW CHAPTER OF
THE CITY CODE OF THE CITY OF FRYDLEY, CHAPTER 221, ENTITLED
"STONYBROOK CREEK STORM WATER IMPROVEMENT DISTRYCT:"
Mr. Burns, City
the Stonybrook
' stated that the
and Spring Lake
by 81st Avenue
respectively.
Manager, stated tha� �.his ordinance creates
Creek Storm Water Improvement Districte He
distric� is bounded by the Mississippi River
Parlc on the west and east respectively, and
and Osborne Road on the north and south,
He stated that the City is expected to levy
� FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JANUARY �. 1996 PAGE 3
$89,o�Q among 328 property owners in this area. He stated
that bids were advertised for this project, and construction
is expected to begin by mid-February, 1996.
�AIVED THE READING AND APPROVE THE ORDINANCE ON FIRST READING.
5. RECEIVE THE MINUTES OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING OF
DECEMSER 20. 1995:
RECEIVED THE MYNQTES OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING AF
DECEMBER 20v 1995.
6. SPECIAL USE PERMIT REQUEST, SP #95-10, BY BWBR ARCHITECTS.
INC., FOR UNITY HOSPITAL. TO ALLOW EXPANSION OF A HOSPITAL IN
AN R-1. SINGLE FAMILY DWELLING DISTRICT, GENERALLY LOCATED AT
550 OSBORNE ROAD N.E. {WARD 1):
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that the purpose of this addi-
tion is for the creation of an ambulatory care unit. He
stated that the size of this addition is 3,750 sguare feetq
and it will have no impact on adjacent residentia3 properties.
He stated tha't although six parking spaces wi1T be lost, there
is space for replacement of these spaces should the City
determine that is necessary in the future. He stated that
� staff recommends approval of this special use permit with the
stipulation that the City reserves the right to require re-
placement of the six lost parking spaces.
APPROVED SPECIAL IISE PERMIT, SP #95-10, WITH THE STIPULATION
THAT THE CITY BHALL MONITOR THE RARRING AND TRAFF%C ON ANYD
NEAR THE SITE AND IF THERE IS A PROBLEM, WORK WYTH THE PETI-
TIONER TO RESOLVE IT, AND RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REQUIRE RE-
PLACEMENT OF THE 8IX LOST PARRING SPACES.
7. VARIANCE REOUEST, VAR #95-35a BY GARY VELISHEK, TO REDUCE �'HE
SIDE YARD SETBACK FROM 5 FEET TO 1 FOOT TO ALLOW THE CONSTRUC-
TION OF A DECK. GENERALLY LOCATED AT 8112 FAIRMONT CIRCLE N.E.
jWARD 31°
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that this variance is to
reduce fhe side yard setbacic from five feet to one foot to
allow the construction of a 9 foot by 15 foot deck. Y-Ie sta�ed
that the Appeals Commission did not approve the variance to
one foot but voted to allow a variance from five feet to three
feet which means that the size of the deck must be reduced to
7 feet by 15 feet. He stated tha't there were no objections
by surrounding neighbors, and staff recommends concurrence
with the recommendation of the Appeals Commission.
� GRANTED VARIANCE REQIIEST� VAR #95-35� TO REDUCE THE SIDE YARID
SETBACR FROM 5 REET TO 3 FEET TO ALLOW THE CONSTRUCTION OE A
DECR AT 8112 FAYRMONT CIRCLE N.E.
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FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JANUARY 8, 3996 PAGE 4
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10.
I2ESOLUTION NO. 1-1996 DESIGNATING OFFICIAL DEPOS3TORIES FOR
THE CITY OF FRIDLEY:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated it is recommended that Norwest
Bank be designated as the City's official depository for 1996.
ADOPTED RE80LUTION NO. 1-1996.
RESOLUTION NO. 2-1996 DESIGNATING AN OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER FOR
THE YEAR 1996°
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated it is recommended tha� Focus
News be designated as the officia3 legal newspaper for the
city for 1996 and the Star Tribune as the second official
newspaper for 1996e
ADOPTED RESOLIITION NO. 2-1996.
RESOLUTION NO. 3-1996 IMPOSING LOAD LIMITS ON PUBLIC STREETS
AND HIGHWAYS IN THE CITY OF FRIDLEY, MINNESOTA:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that this resolution imposes
load limits on public streets from March 17, 1996 to May 18,
1996. He stated that trucks weighing more than nine �ons are
� totally restricted, and trucks weighing more than four tons
are restricted from all but state aid and county aid streets.
He stated that school buses are exempt from this requzrement,
11.
12.
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ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 3-1996.
RESOLIITIOI�i NO. 4-1996 DESIGNATING DIRECTOR AND ALTERNATE
DIRECTOR TO SUBURBAN RATE AUTHORITY:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated it is recommend that Council
designate the Director of Public Wor➢cs, John Flora, and the
Assistant Public Works Director, Jon Wilczek, as the Director
and Alternate Director to the Suburban Rate Authority.
ADOPTED YtE80LUT20N NO. �-1996.
APPOINTMENT: CITY EMPLOYEE:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated it is recommended that Edward
Hervin be appointed as City Assessor. He s�ated �hat Mr.
Hervin has a Masteros Degree in Management and Administra�ion
from Metro State University and a Bache3or of Arts in
Economics from the University of Minnesota. He stated that
he is a licensed Minnesota appraiser and a senior accredited
Minnesota assessor. His past work experience has been with
Washington County, the City of Minnetonka, and Chisago County,
as weli as experience in the private sector.
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FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MESTING OF JANUARY S 1996 PAGE 5
CONCIIRRED WITH THE FOLLOWING APPOINT'MENT BY THE CITY YdANAGER:
Name
Edward R.
Hervin
13. CLAIMS•
Starting
Position Salarv
Assessor $47,034.24
Exempt per year
Starting
Date RepTaces
Jan. 17, Leon
Y996 Madsen
AUTHORIZED PAYMENT OF CLAIM NOS. 65801 `dHROUGH 66024.
14. LICENSES:
THIS ITEM WAS REMOVED FROM THE CONBENT AGENDA AND P%,ACED Oi5
THE REGULAR AGENDA.
15. ESTIMATES•
APPROVED THE FOLLOWING ESTIMATEB:
Barna, Guzy & Steffen, Ltd.
400 Northtown Financial Plaza
200 Coon Rapids Boulevard, N.W.
Coon Rapids, MN 55435-5489
Services Rendered as City Attorney
for the Month of NovemberJDecembex°, a_995. o e$3A988.34
No persons in the audience spoke regarding the proposed consen�
agenda items.
Councilwoman Bolkcom asked that the licenses be removed from the
consent agenda.
MoTION by Councilman Schneider to approve �kae consent agencla items
with the deletion of Item 14, Licenses. Seconded l�y Councilwoman
Jorgenson. Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor Nee declared
the motion carried unanimously.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA:
MOTION by Councilman Schneider to adopt the agenda with the addi-
tion of Item 14, Licenses, from the consent agenda. Seconded by
Councilwoman Bolkcom. Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor
Nee declared the motion carried unanimously.
OPEN FORUM, VISITORS:
WARMING HOUSE CLOSINGS:
Ms. Patty Phillips, 531 Mississippi Stree�, sta�ed that she would
like the warming house replaced at Hayes School, as it is used by
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MSETING OF SANUARY 8, 1996 EAGE 6
� a lot of children. She stated that she credits Councilman Billings
for bringing up this issue. She asked that Council reconsider a
warming house for this location.
Councilwoman Jorgenson stated that she has spoken with Gordon
Backlund and will meet with �he school district staff to discuss
a permanent shelter that could be used in conjunc�ion with
recreational activities. She stated tha� the skating season is
shortP and there probably will not be another shelter there �his
year. She stated that possibly the City couTd work with �he hockey
association regarding installation of the warming houses� She
stated that she did not receive any telephone calls, as Councilman
Billings had, regarding the removal of the warming houses.
Councilwoman Bolkcom stated that the plan is to meet with the
hockey association and other interested parties. She stated that
if the City could share the costs with the school an� some
volunteer labor, perhaps from the hockey association, she felt that
possibly the warming houses could be replaced.
Ms. Phillips stated that she feels the warming houses are important
for the children, and she thanked Council for their time.
Mr. Greg Potasck, 310 62nd Way, stated that he was one of the in�
� dividuals that called regarding the removal of the warming houses
and ice skating facilities. He stated that this is no� a hockey
issue but an issue of facilities for the citizens of Fridleye He
stated that he was happy about the change in Councigwoman
Jorgenson's position, as she previously indioated that she would
not support the return o£ those warming houses.
Councilwoman Jorgenson stated that did not change her position.
If Mr. Potasck had listened to her instead of yelling when thex
were having a telephone conversation, �e woudl have heard her lou�
and clear.
Mr. Potasck stated that it is the neighborhood children that are
most affected by removal of these warming houses. He urged Council
to unite on this matter and fund the facilities.
Councilman Schneider asked Mr. Potasck where he would suggest the
City obtain these funds.
Mr. Potasck stated that, if necessary, the funds shouTd come from
Council's salaries. He stated that he works as a volunteer for the
Fridley Youth Sports Association and spends hundreds of hours
volunteering his time £or youth sport activities.
� Councilman Schneider asked if he was representing the Fridley Youth
Sports Association this evening.
Mro Potasck stated that he was representing them, as he was the
Chairperson. He stated that there is $96,000 budgeted for the Cgty
Council and, as he understands, for $12,000 the City could have
temporary warming houses.
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FRZDLEY CITY COUN�IL MEETIMQ OP JANU�RS �A 5996 PAGE �
Councglwoman Jorgenson stated �hat af �unds we�e �sed ��om ���
Council budget �ha� $12,000 would elimina�e �wo councalmemberso
Mr. Potasck stated that he was only answering �he questson on wher�
£unds should �e taken for the warminq houses.
Councilwoman Bolkcom state� that she woul� s�gges� a�eeting �� ir�
�o work out a solution.
Councilman Schneider stated that he would agree. He said tha� �he
reason the warmbng houses were close� was �eca�se og �ecessa��
budget cuts and the fact that there was some �uestxo� �egar�in� g�e
safety of the struc�ures. He s�a�ed �ha� �e �oul� i�vx�e
Mr. Potasck to attend the �udget work sessions w�ere decisaons �ave
to be made and what may be the tradeoffs.
Mr. Potasck s�ate� that he was �old s�ecifgc�ily �hai �he warmx��
houses wexe closed for budget reasonso �e �el� �ha� a we�l ma�aqe�
Council could find the funds to provide �ervbces to i�e citgzen�
and solve this probleme
CounciYman Schneider stated �ha� Counail has made �any �u�geg c�t�
which also covered personnel. He felt gha� Mre �a�asck was g�ea�3�
oversimplifying the issue, but he ha� no ob�ectio� to wogkin� �o-
ge�her �o try to £ind a solution, He poi�te� out, ho�everp ��a�
ior non-budgete� atems, a�our-fifths vo�e o� ��e �ounci� a�
necessary for expendituresa
Mayor Nee stated that the Ci�y would 3ike to mee� an� discuss this
issue with the volunteers to try to come up with a solution but
not disrup� �he budget processa
Mr. Potasck stated that what they want bs Council's support ta re-
ogen the warming houses.
Councigwoman Jorqenso� sta�ed that Counci� �igg be �aokAn� at a13
ffunds expended towards the secreationa3 programs,
Ms. Doreen Halverson, 3a 65-1j2 Way N.�.a stated t�at her neigh�o�-
�ood is concerned about the closing o� �he rinks. 5he s�a��d tha�
�hey da not have the ice xan� which �as �gevaous�y �oca�ed �ear
�edeemer Lutheran Ch�rc� and great3y used �y 'rhE yout�, as wei3 a�
adults, She stated that people do cag� �hat �he ri�ks are mo�
�herea �ut do not know wha� can be �onee
Mr. Tom GYiadon, 713Y Riverview Terrac�r ��aLe� ��at �e wrshe� �Q
make a pTea for the warming �ouses to be reopened. �e s�ated tha�
he has enjoyed the warming houses a� Hayes a�d S�evenson schools
and supports what rias to be do�e to have these reopene�.
RENTAL ORDINANCE �CHAPTER 220 OF THE CITY CODE):
Ms. Carol Eilola, 6347 5th Street, sta�ed that she resides in �he
Village Green apartments and is concerned about the rental
ordinance, Chapter 220. She stated that she knows the ordinance
was passed to try to protect the landlords, as the City was having
� FRIDLBY CITY COIINCIL MEETING OF JANUARY 6, 1996 PAGE 8
problems with rental property. She stated that what is happeninq
is if a person calls the Police Department to report a crime or for
assistance, they receive a violation. She sta�ed that the majority
of the people in the apartments will no longer call �he policea
Councilwoman Jorgenson stated that if a person is the victim, �hey
should not be receiving a violation.
Ms. Eilola stated that one person has received thirteen vioiations
and is being evicted. She stated that people are afraid to ca13
the police. She stated that there is another person who has besn
subjected to domestic violence, and she will no longer call the
police for fear of being evicted. Ms. Eilola stated that she has
given her notice and will be moving out og Fridley, as she does not
feel safe.
Mayor Nee stated that Council will ask staff to determine if the
ordinance is being abused and report back to Council.
Councilman Billings stated that the circums�ances that Ms. Eilola
described were certainly not the intention of the ordinance. He
stated that there is obviously some misunderstanding on the part
of the tenants, management, or the Police Department. He suggested
that a meeting be established with the tenants of Village Green to
� meet with their neighborhood officer for their particular area to
explain the ordinance and the purpose behind it.
Councilwoman Jorgenson sugges�ed that the Crime Prevention
Specialist, Julie Swanson, attend the meeting, as it seems there
is some victimization.
Ms. Mary Ann Walker, 6489 5th Street, stated that she received
several violations for calling the police, and she is now losing
her apartment because of these violations.
Mr. Mark Shirley, 6359 5th Street, stated that one area of this
ordinance that concerns him is the penalties. He stated that if
charges are brought against you, whether or not you win or lose,
it still is a strike against you. He feli that �his was an
important issue.
OLD BUSINESS:
16, RESOLUTION NO. 5-1996 AUTHORIZING THE TRANSFER OF UP TO
5190,000 FROM THE CLOSED BOND FUND TO THE SOLID WASTE ABATE-
MENT FUND (TABLED DECEMBER 1T, 1995 L
Mayor Nee removed this item from the table.
� Mr. Pribyl, Finance Director, stated that this is a housekeeping
item to authori2e the transfer of up to �190,000 to fund the Clean-
Up Week. He s�ated that these funds would be used to take care of
the unbudgeted portion of that activity.
FRIDLSY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JANUARY 8, 1996 PAGE 9
� MOTION by Councilman Schneider to ado�t Resolution Na. 5-1996,
Seconded by Councilwoman Jorgenson. Upon a voice vote, all voting
aye, Mayor Nee declared the motion carried unanimouslye
�7. VARIANCE RE UEST VAR 95-31 BY AN�HONY AND JOYCE SWANSON
TO REDUCE THE SIDE YARD SETBACK FROM A STREET RIGHT-OF-WAY
FROM 17.5 FEET TO .5 FEET, TO ALLOW RECONSTRUCTION OF A
GARAGE. GENERALLY LOCATED AT 66D1 LUCIA LANE N.E. (WARD 21
lTABLED NOVEMBER 27.19951:
Mayor Nee removed this item from the table.
Mr. Hickok, Planning Coordinator, stated that staff was asked to
review the advantages and disadvantages of vacating 66th Avenue.
He stated that the disadvantages are that the vacation of 66th
Avenue would eliminate an access alternative to Lucia Lane should
the State or County construct a median in Mississippi Street. gIe
stated that in the event a median is constructed at a length that
iimits turning movements to Lucia Lane, or to head east on
Mississippi Street from Lucia Lane, constructing a connection from
Pierce Street to 68th Place would be an al�ernative that would
allow residents to get back to Lucia Lanee
Mr, Aickok stated that another disadvan�age is the �and �o the
� north of Pierce Street is zoned for multi-family and the elimina-
tion of 66th Avenue would force tra£fic to use Lucia Lane alone
versus using 66th Avenue for east bound traffic. He stated that
the vacation of 66th Avenue would also eliminate a shorter right-
of-way and a lower street cost when comparing it to the Pierce
Street and Lucia Lane connection.
Mr. Hickok stated that another disadvantage is that utilities are
currently in place in the 66th Avenue alignment, and a right-of-
way allows for a combination of both street and utiYities. He
stated that although an easement could be reserved, the right-of-
way is more efficient. He stated that the official mapping process
for the Pierce Street extension is far more lengthy than simply
installing the improvements to an existing right-of-way.
Mr. Hickok stated that the advantages of the vacation of 66th
Avenue are that it creates an interior lot for the petitioners, and
they could then construct a double �arage without requirinq a
variance. He stated that other advantages to vacation are the
adjacent property owners could continue to use the property
legally, it increases the tax base to the City, and eliminates the
potential of a future road too close to accessory structures.
Councilman Schneider was concernecl about the construction and
� length of a median that would block or limit access to this area.
Mr. Hickok stated that the right-of-way is in place for such an
improvement; however, the design and length of the median is yet
to be determined. He stated that from information he has received
' ERIDLEY CITY COIINCIL MEETING OF SANUARH 8, i996 PAGE 10
from the County, this intersection improvement would not occur for
- five to ten years.
Councilman Billings stated that stafP was requested to review the
pros and cons of vacating 66th Avenueo He stated that stafg states
that the County has plans to construct a median in the future, He
stated that if this is the case, there would be public input, but
since Mississippi Street is a County road, the decision for the
design would be with the County Board. He stated that staff has
done a good job of reporting the advantages and disadvantages, but
it is up to Council to make a reasonable decision based on the
information available.
Councilman Schneider stated that 3�is only point is that he
believes, generally, the County does gisten to tY�e Council and
would not try to block access to the neighborhoods. He stated that
it seems to him if greater than a 300 foot median was proposed, the
County would have to provide cuts, protected lane movements, or
signalization.
MOTION by Councilman Schneider to grant Variance Request, VAR
#95-31, to reduce the side yard setback from a street right-of-way
from 17.5 feet to .5 feet, Further, that this is an extremely
unique situation as the variance is to a platted, Pr�ut yet unpaved
� right-of-way and while there is a possibility in £he future it
could be comple�ed, it is almost conjecture. Seconded by
Councilwoman Jorgenson.
Councilman Billings asked what the largest variances granted in the
past for this type of situation were.
Mr. Hickok stated that there was a variance from 17.5 feet to 14.27
feet for a corner lot.
Councilman Billings stated that the Appeals Commission has unani-
mously recommended denial of this variance request. He stated tha�
he is unable to determine the hardship as required by the Minnesota
State Statutes.
Mr. Hickok said that State Statute requires a hardship related to
the physical characteristics of the land. He stated that in this
case, �he petitioner desires to build at the loca�ion of an
existing garage.
Councilman Billings sfated that he believes in the integrity of the
zoning ordinance and cannot support this motione
CounciYman Schneider asked how many variance requests �he City
� received for encroachment in the side yard.
Mr. Hickok stated �hat there were severaY, and all side yard
variances that were granted were in the range of about fifteen
feet.
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FRIDLEY CITY COIINCIL MEETING OF 7ANUAR% �. 1996 PAGE iY
Mayor Nee stated that Councilman BillingsB poin� was well taken.
He felt, in practical terms, this was an extraordinary situation,
Councilman Billings stated that the only thing he �inds unique
about this request is that, at this time, the street is
undeveloped. He stated that throughout the history of the City,
there have always been streets that were undevelopede To grant a
variance adjacent to a street merely because it is undeveloped is
not the kind of thing he felt the City should be doinge
Cour.cilman Schneider stated that there is an existing garage there,
and this is only a two foot difference against vacant property,
He stated that while he agrees that the integrity of the zoning
code is important, the petitioner is making effective use of the
garage now. He stated that the alternatives are costly, and it
does not make sense to not allow the variance. He stated that a
long-time resident wishes to improve his property, increase the tax
base, and this seems a reasonable tradeof£a
UPON A ROLL CALL VOTE TAKEN ON THE ABOVE MOTION, Councilman
Schneider, Councilwoman Jorgenson, Counciiwoman Bolkcom and Mayor
Nee voted in favor of the motion. Councilman Billings voted
against the motion. Mayor Nee declared the motion carried by a
four to one vote.
18. VARIANCE REQUEST, VAR #95-34, BY ERICKSON OIL PRODUCTS, INC.,
TO INCREASE THE MAXIMUM SIZE OF A FREE-STANDING SIGN FROM 80
SOUARE FEET TO 126 SOUARE FEET, GENERALLY LOCATED AT 7600
iTNIVERSITY AVENUE N.E. (WARD 3) (TABLED DECEMBER 11, 1995):
Mayor Nee removed this item from the table.
Mr. Hickok, Planning Coordinator, stated that this is a request to
increase the size of a free standing sign from 80 square feet to
126 square feet at 7600 University Avenue. He stated that in re-
viewing the conditions for a variance, �he petitioner has not met
four conditions. He stated that the Appeals Commission has
recommended denial of this request and staf� concurs.
The petitioner was not present at the meeting.
MOTION by Councilwoman Bolkcom to deny Variance Request,
by Erickson Oil Products, Inc. Secondecl by Councilman
Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor Nee declared
carried unanimously.
NEW Bi7SINESS:
VAR #95-34
Schneider.
the motion
� 19. VARIANCE REQUEST, VAR #95-36, �Y DEALERS MANUFACTURING CO..
TO REDUCE THE SIDE YARD SETBACK FROM 20 FEET TO 2.9 FEET TO
ALLOW THE CONSTRUCTION OF AN 83 BY 88 FOOT ADDITION TO THE
REAR OF AN EXISTING INDUSTRIAL BUILDING, GENERALLY LOCATED AT
5130 MAIN STREET N.E. (WARD 31:
Mr. Hickok, Planning Coordinator, stated that this is a request for
a variance to reduce the side yard setback from 20 feet to 2.9 feet
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCYL MEETING OF JANUARY 8, 1996 PAGE 12
� to allow the construction of an 83 foot by 88 foo� addition to the
rear of an existing industrial building at 5130 Main Stree£. He
stated that when originally constructed, this building was less
than five feet from the lot line, and there were variances to allow
additions to this structure.
Mr. Hickok stated that the Appeals Commission recommended approval
of this variance with four stipula�ions which he outlined, as
follows: �1) the petitioner shall conduct soi� borings an the area
of the addition if con�aminated soil exists. All contaminated soig
will be removed from the site prior to issuance of a building
permit; (2) the petitioner shall reloca�e the above ground fueS
storage tank in compliance with the Uniform Fire Code and all Fire
Department permitting requirements; (3) the petitioner arncY the
property owner to the north shall execute and record a maintenance
agreement against both properties to ensure proper maintenance of
both buildings; and (4) the shared driveway west of the addition
shall be designed in a manner that provides a safe passage and
distance between vehicular travel and tfie building addition, This
driveway shali be approved by City staff prior to issuance of a
building permit.
Councilwoman Bollccom stated that West Central Environmental Consul-
tants submitted a letter dated December 27, 1995 responding to the
� first stipulation regarding soil contamination. She felt that it
may be best for tfie petitioner to discuss the soil borings
analysis, as they are in an on-going program for monitoring pollu-
tion on the site.
Mr. Steve Schwartz, representing Dealers Manufacturing, introduced
Jeff Hanra�ty, Project Engineer, from i^7est Central Environmenta3
Consultants.
Mr. Hanratty stated that 67 soil borings have been talcen in the
last seven years. He stated that contamination below the ground
water table interface exists on the western half of the site,
including �he proposed building addition footprint. He sta�ed that
ground water contamination exists from 30 feet to 70 £eet below
lancl surface and cannot be excavated as noted in Stipulation No. 1
due to its depth and volume. He stated that, conseguently, this
contamination will be treated using "in-place" methods.
Mr. Hanratty stated that in the past, degreasing solvents were used
for cleaning parts and dispersed into the sanitary sewer system
into a flammable waste trap which leaked. He stated that they are
proposing to use a pump out well and are in the process of getting
an industrial waste water permit to contain the contamination to
their property. He stated that to address fhe soil contamination
and ground water contamination on site, a remedial pump will be
� installed inside the building to treat the soil and ground water.
Mr. Schwartz stated that they woulcd like the first stipulation
removed because they have done the soii borings on the property.
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FRIDLEY CYTY COUNCIL MEETING OF JANUARY �, 1996 PAGE 13
He stated that 67 soil borings have been done on �he proper�y.
The report has been submitted to the Minnesota Pollution Control
Agency, and he did not want to have to do these borings again.
Mr. Hickok stated that he did nof. feel the borings had to be
conducted again, but the City would like to see the results andl
data.
Councilman Billinqs stated that Stipulation No. 1 states that all
contaminated soil would be removed from the site prior £o issuance
of a building permit. He clarified that this pertained only 'to the
addition and "site'� means the specific area of the addition and not
the entire parcei.
Councilman Billings asked if the contaminants found on the site are
the only ones that are at levels necessary for abatemen�o
Mr. Hanratty answered in the affirmative.
Councilman Billings
Minnesota PolTution
the problem.
asked if they have received a reply from the
Control Agency approving theix plan to remedy
Mr. Hanratty stated that they have written a report suggesting a
remedy, and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency &�as reviewed
their draft of the report.
Councilman Billings asked Mr. Hanratty to provide staff with a copy
of this letter.
Mr. Hanratty reviewed the comments from the Minnesota Pollution
Control Agency and their approval of installing a ground water pump
system. He stated that they have to respond to those comments and
submit a final report.
CounciTman Billings stated that the City 3ikes to obtazn assurances
that any problems with the site are being addressedo
MOTION by Councilwoman Bolkcom to grant Variance d2equest, VAR
#95-36, to reduce the side yard setback from 20 feet to 2.9 feet
with the following stipulations: (1) the petitioner shall conduct
soil borings in the area of the addition if contaminated soil
exists. All contaminated soil will be removed £rom the site prior
to issuance of a building permit; (2) the petitioner shall relocate
the above ground fuei storage tank in compliance with the Uniform
Fire Code and all Fire Department permitting requirements; (3) the
petitioner and the property owner to the north shall execute and
record a maintenance agreement against both properties to ensure
proper maintenance of both buildings; and (4) the shared driveway
west of the addition shall be designed in a manner that provides
a safe passage attd distance between vehicular trave3 and the
building addition. This driveway shall be approved by City staf�
prior to issuance of a building permit. Furthery to amend
ERIDLSY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JANIIARY 8. 1996 PAGE Y4
' Stipulation No. 1 by inserting the word °oadditiona' be�ore the word
1°site." Seconded by Councilman Billings. Upon a voice vo�e, aTY
voting aye, Mayor Nee declared the motion carried unanimously.
10. 1996 CITY COUNCIL APPOINTMENTS TO VARIANCE AGENCIES:
AND
�IST OF COMMISSION MEMBERS WHOSE TERMS EXPIRE APRIL i AND
JUNE 9. 1996:
Mavor Pro Tem•
MOTION by Councilman Billings to nominate Councilwoman Jorgenson
for Mayor Pro Tem for 1996. Seconded by Councilwoman Bolkcom,
There being no further nominations, an unanimous ballot was cast
for the appointment of Councilwoman Jorgenson as Mayor Pro Tem for
1996.
MOTION by Councilman Billings to re-appoint the same representa-
tives for 1996, as were appointed in 1995, to the following
agencies:
Anoka County Law Enforcemen� Council
(1 Representative and 1 Alternate}_
� Councilman Schneider, Representative
Councilwoman Jorgenson, Alternate
Suburban Rate Authoritv
(1 Member and 1 Alternatel:
John Flora, Public Works Director, Rep.
Jon Wilczek, Asst. Public works Director, Alt.
Association of Metropolitan Munici�alitiesa
Councilwoman Jorgenson, Delegate
Councilwoman Bolkcom, Alternate
School District Nos. 13 and 14 Representative:
Councilwoman Bolkcom, Representative
Councilman Billings, Alternate
School District No. 16 Reoresentative:
Councilman Billings, Representative
Councilman Schneider, Alternate
Leaaue of Minnesota Cities:
� Councilman Billings, Representative
Councilwoman Jorgenson, Alternate
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FRIDLSY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JANUARY 8, 1996 PAGE 15
North Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau:
William Hunt, Asst. to the City Manager
Seconded by Councilman Schneider. Upon a voice vote, a1T voting
aye, Mayor Nee declared the motion carried unanimousTye
MOTION by Councilman Schneider to tabie the Commission appoint-
ments, direct staff to poll the Commission members to determine if
they wish to be re-appointed, and �o provide a Tis� on the
attendance. Seconded by Councilman Billings. Upon a voice vote,
all voting aye, Mayor Nee declared the motion carried unanimously.
14. LICENSES•
MOTION by Councilman Billings to approve the licenses as submitted
and as on file in the License Clerk's Office. Seconded by Council-
man Schneider.
MOTION by Councilman Billings to amend the motion by deleting the
license for Great Plains Assistance Dogs Foundation, Inc, Seconded
by Councilman Schneider. Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor
Nee declared the motion carried unanimously.
UPON A VOICE VOTE TAKEI3 ON THE MAIN MOTION, all voted ayea anci
Mayor Nee declared the motion carriecl unanimously,
21. INFORMAL STATUS REPORTS:
riIr. Burns, City Manager, stated that during the conference session
a representative from MEPC will provide an update on the Lake
Pointe site. He stated that he would also like to discuss the
drop-in center, which is part of Project Safety Ne�; conclude the
attorney selection process; and review proposed liquor store sites.
ADJOURNMENT°
MoTYON by Councilman Schneider to adjourn the meetinge Seconded
by Councilwoman Bolkcom. Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor
Nee declared the motion carried unanimously and the itegular Meetancy
of the Fridley City Council of January 8, 1996 adjourned at
9:22 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Carole Haddad
Secretary to �he City Council
w����-
64illiam J. Nee
Mayor