07/10/2000 - 00008627THE MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL
OF JULY 10, 2000
The Regular Meeting of the Fridley City Council was called to order by Mayor Jorgenson at
7:30 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
Mayor Jorgenson led the Council and audience in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
ROLL CALL:
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor 7orgenson, Councilmember Barnette, Councilmember
Billings, Councilmember Wolfe, and Councilmember Bolkcom
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
STATEMENT OF MEETING CONDUCT:
Please be reminded that those present at today's meeting may hold a variety of views and
opinions regarding the business to be conducted. The exercise of democracy through
representative local government requires that ALL points of view be accommodated at these
proceedings. It is further expected that a standard of mutual courtesy and respectfulness be
exercised by all in attendance, through our individual expression, manner of speaking, and
conduct. Therefore, please receive the views of other with the same degree of courtesy and
respect which you desire to be given your views and opinions. Any departures from this
standard will be addressed by the Presiding Officer through whatever means are deemed
appropriate. Thank you for your attendance at today's meeting, and your agreement to abide by
these standards of personal conduct.
PRESENTATION OF FRIDLEY `49ER DAYS ROYALTY:
Ms. Dianne McKusick, representative of the Miss Fridley Pageant Scholarship, introduced Miss
Fridley Queen Rachel Roith, Princess 7ennie French, and Princess Christy Peterson.
Queen Rachel Roith stated that if Fridley would like them to participate in any events or benefits
they would be more than happy to be involved in those. Ms. Roith thanked Council for having
them tonight.
Princess Jennie French stated that they are having fun, and she is honored to represent the City of
Fridley.
Princess Christy Peterson stated that she wanted to e�tend her thanks for inviting them this
evening.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 10, 2000 PAGE 2
PROCLAMATION:
National Ni�ht Out - Au u.°� st 1, 2000
Ms. Rosie Griep, Public Safety Projects Coordinator, introduced the members of the
Neighborhood Crime Watch Advisory Board who assist in making the National Night Out so
successful. Fridley has participated in this program since 1989. Fridley has placed in the top ten
nationally since 1992 for a community of our population category. For neighborhoods to
participate, there is a registration packet. There is also information available to be distributed
throughout neighborhoods. This year there will be yard signs to show where the parties are, as
well. If you need additional information contact the Police Department at 572-3638.
Mayor Jorgenson asked Ms. Griep how many parties are scheduled.
Ms. Griep stated that they have about 28, but she said reminders were just mailed. Traditionally,
in the past, there have been about 70 to 75 parties. This year there will probably be that many as
well.
Mayor Jorgenson stated that members of the City Council, Police Department and Fire
Department are able to attend the parties.
Mayor Jorgenson asked Ms. Griep for an update on the Fridley Safety Camp.
Ms. Griep stated that 160 students attended. They had an enjoyable time and were able to have
the National Guard weather helicopter for the graduation ceremony.
APPROVAL OF PROPOSED CONSENT AGENDA:
Councilmember Wolfe stated that he would like to remove Item No. 6 for further discussion.
MOTION by Councilmember Billings to approve the proposed consent agenda with the
amendment to the minutes of the City Council meeting of June 26, 2000, and with the exception
of Item No. 6. Seconded by Councilmember Wolfe.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR JORGENSON DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
City Council Meetin� of June 26, 2000
Councilmember Bolkcom stated that the neighborhood commuter rail meeting was listed in the
minutes as being on August 3, but it is actually August 2.
Councilmember Barnette asked what time that meeting was.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 10, 2000 PAGE 3
Councilmember Bolkcom stated that it is at 7:00 p.m.
Mayor Jorgenson stated that it will be held at Fridley High School in the gymnasium.
NEW BUSINESS:
1. VARIANCE REQUEST, VAR #00-15, BY VISION WOODWORKING, TO
REDUCE THE FRONT YARD SETBACK FROM 35 FEET TO 8 FEET TO
ALLOW THE CONSTRUCTION OF AN ADDITION, GENERALLY LOCATED
AT 7890 HICKORY STREET N.E. (WARD 3):
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that the matter was heard and approved unanimously by
the Appeals Commission at their June 28 meeting. Staff recommended Council's
approval.
APPROVED VARIANCE REQUEST, VAR #00-15.
2. SPECIAL USE PERMIT REQUEST, SP #00-05, BY HOWARD R. TAPPE, JR.,
TO ALLOW A SECOND ACCESSORY STRUCTURE IN EXCESS OF 240
SQUARE FEET, GENERALLY LOCATED AT 7601 EAST RIVER ROAD N.E.
(WARD 3):
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that the petitioner wishes to build a new accessory
building that will be used for storage of vehicles. The e�sting garage and shed together
with the proposed accessory building are less than the ma�mum square feet. Staff
recommended approval with seven stipulations. The Planning Commission unanimously
concurred with staff's recommendation at their April 19 meeting. Staff recommended
Council's approval.
APPROVED SPECIAL USE PERMIT, SP #00-05 WITH THE FOLLOWING
STIPULATIONS: 1) PETITIONER SHALL INSTALL CODE REQUIRED HARD
SURFACE DRIVEWAY, 2) ALL NECESSARY PERMITS SHALL BE
OBTAINED FROM THE CITY PRIOR TO CONSTRUCTION, 3) THE
STRUCTURE SHALL NOT BE USED FOR A HOME OCCUPATION; 4) ALL
VEHICLES SHALL BE STORED ON A HARD SURFACE AS APPROVED BY
THE CITY; 5) TOTAL SQUARE FOOTAGE OF ALL ACCESSORY
STRUCTURES MUST NOT EXCEED 1,400 SQUARE FEET; 6) THE SIDING
AND ROOF MATERIALS SHALL MATCH THE EXTERIOR OF THE
EXISTING HOME; AND 7) IF HOME IS TO BE MODIFIED IN ANY WAY,
PETITIONER MUST OBTAIN VARIANCE TO RECOGNIZE THE EXISTING
SIDE YARD SETBACK NON-CONFORMITY (10 INCH SETBACK REQUIRED
FOR LIVING AREA, EXISTING HOME HAS ONLY 6.17 INCH).
3. RESOLUTION NO. ??-2000 APPROVING A PLAT, PS #00-01, (TALIA'S
TOWNHOMES), BY TIMOTHY JAWOR, TO REPLAT PROPERTY FOR THE
PURPOSE OF CREATING SEVEN LOTS TO ALLOW THE CONSTRUCTION
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 10, 2000 PAGE 4
OF SIX OWNER OCCUPIED TOWNHOME UNITS, GENERALLY LOCATED
AT 7411 UNIVERSITY AVENUE (WARD 1):
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that staffrecommended Council's approval.
APPROVED RESOLUTION APPROVING A PLAT, P.S. #00-01 BY TIMOTHY
JAWOR WITH THE FOLLOWING STIPULATONS: 1) A GRADING AND
DRAINAGE PLAN SHALL BE SUBMITTED AND APPROVED BY THE CITY'S
ENGINEERING STAFF PRIOR TO THE ISSUANCE OF ANY BUILDING
PERMITS; 2) THE PARKING LOT SHALL BE CONSTRUCTED TO CODE
STANDARDS; 3) THE AMOUNT OF BRICK USED ON THE BUILDING SHALL
RESEMBLE ORIGINAL OPTION B AS SUBMITTED ON MARCH 31, 2000; 4) A
CODE REQUIRED FENCE SHALL BE EXTENDED ALONG THE ENTIRE
EAST SIDE OF THE PROPERTY; 5) ALL ELEMENTS OF THE BUILDING
MUST MEET THE CURRENT BUILDING CODE AND BE APPROVED BY THE
CITY BUILDING OFFICIAL; 6) SCREENING BERM ON WEST SIDE OF
PROPERTY MSUT MEET THE ZONING CODE REQUIREMENT FOR
HEIGHT; 7) THE PETITIONER SHALL SUBMIT A UTILITY PLAN PRIOR TO
THE ISSUANCE OF ANY BUILDING PERMITS; 8) THE PETITIONER SHALL
PAY APPLICABLE PARK DEDICATION FEES OF $750 PER UNIT PRIOR TO
THE ISSUANCE OF THE BUILDING PERMIT; 9) FINAL LANDSCAPE PLAN
MUST MEET CODE REQUIREMENTS FORNUMBER OF AND SIZES OF
PLANTINGS AND MUST BE APPROVED BY CITY STAFF PRIOR TO THE
ISSUANCE OF ANY BUILDING PERMITS; 10) ALL GREEN SPACE MUST
HAVE IRRIGATION INSTALLED AND BE SPRINKLED; 110 THE PROPOSED
WALKWAY SHALL BE CONCRETE; 12) A 12 FOOT UTILITY AND
DRAINAGE EASEMENT SHALL BE GRANTED ALONG THE ENTIRE
EASTERN EDGE OF THE PROPERTY PRIOR TO FINAL PLAT; 13) A 10
FOOT UTILITY AND DRAINAGE EASEMENT SHALL BE GRANTED ALONG
THE ENTIRE SOUTHERN EDGE OF THE PROPERTY PRIOR TO FINAL
PLAT; 14) A STORM POND MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT SHALL BE FILED
WITH THE CITY PRIOR TO ISSUANCE OF A BUILDING PERMIT; AND 15)
THE PETITIONER SHALL COMPLY WITH ALL STATE REGULATIONS
REGARDING TOWNHOME ASSOCIATIONS.
4. APPROVE COMPREHENSIVE SIGN PLAN FOR MEDTRONIC, INC.'S
CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS (WARD 1):
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that Medtronic has submitted drawings indicating that
there would be two wall-mounted signs and additional directional signage for Phase I of
their world headquarters project. Both signs would be 5.5 feet high by 28 inches long.
They would be internally lit and finished in blue. One sign would be on the neurological
building. The other would be at the entrance to the project. Directional signs would
comply with the City's requirement that they have an area of four square feet or less.
Staff recommended Council's approval.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 10, 2000 PAGE 5
APPROVED COMPREHENSIVE SIGN PLAN FOR MEDTRONIC, INC.'S
CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS.
5. APPROVE AMENDMENT TO COMPREHENSIVE SIGN PLAN FOR MOON
PLAZA (6201-6269 UNIVERSITY AVENUE N.E.) (WARD 1):
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that the owners of Moon Plaza are requesting that their
sign plan be amended to reflect the signs that are there. The panels are 42 inches by 218
inches rather than 36 inches by 192 inches as contained in their comprehensive sign plan
that was approved by Council in 1991. Since the existing panels are within code required
sizes, Staffrecommended Council's approval.
APPROVED AMENDMENT TO COMPREHENSIVE SIGN PLAN FOR MOON
PLAZA WITH THE FOLLOWING STIPULATIONS: 1) ALL BUSINESSES IN
BUILDING SHALL OBTAIN SIGN PERMITS PRIOR TO ANY
MODIFICATIONS OR REPLACEMENT OF EXISTING SIGNS; 2) NO OFF
PREMISES SIGNS ALLOWED, AS PER SIGN CODE, AND 3) ALL
TEMPORARY SIGNS MUST MEET SETBACK REQUIREMENTS AND NO
SIGNS SHALL BE PLACED IN THE BOULEVARD (PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY).
6. APPROVE CONTRACT BETWEEN THE CITY OF FRIDLEY AND
HOISINGTON KOEGLER GROUP, INC, FOR PLANNING SERVICES
PERTAINING TO THE PROPOSED NORTHSTAR COMMUTER RAIL SITE IN
FRIDLEY:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that the contract is for consultant services that will be
needed by the City as it seeks to implement a station/park and ride site planning and
public hearing process for the North Star commuter rail project. The consultant's
services will include issue research and meeting facilitation. The meeting schedule
includes a meeting of residents and business representatives from the area where the
proposed station and park and ride sites are to be located.
Mr. Burns stated that the meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, August 2, 2000 at the
Fridley Community Center Cafeteria. The Planning Commission will also address
proposed comprehensive plan amendments for the commuter rail station and park and
ride facilities at their August 16 meeting. The consultant will facilitate the meeting on
August 2 and be available for a presentation at the August 16 Planning Commission
meeting. He will also assist staff in preparation for these meeting. The contract for
services provides for an amount not to exceed $6,000 for these services. Staff
recommended Council's approval.
THIS ITEM WAS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA AND PLACED
AFTER ITEM NUMBER 14 OF THE AGENDA LISTED AS ITEM NUMBER
14.B.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 10, 2000 PAGE 6
7. RECEIVE BIDS AND AWARD CONTRACT FOR RICE CREEK BANK
STABILIZATION PROJECT NO. 333:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that bids for this year's Rice Creek Bank Stabilization
Project were opened on June 29. Staff opened six bids. The low bidder was W.B. Miller
at $61,840. Half of this amount is to be funded by the Rice Creek Watershed District.
The remaining half of the project cost is to be split evenly between the City and
benefiting residents. The City's share is $15,460. In 1999, $28,000 was budgeted and
has been encumbered for this project. Staff recommended that Council award the bid to
W.B. Miller in the amount of $61,840.
RECEIVED BIDS AND AWARDED CONTRACT FOR RICE CREEK BANK
STABILIZATION PROJECT NUMBER 333.
8. APPROVE CHANGE ORDER NO. 3 TO STREET IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
NO. ST. 2000 - 1:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that change order #3 is for $1,650. It is for the
restoration of the University Avenue East Service Drive boulevard. Materials used
include mulch, seed, and disk anchoring instead of sod. Staff recommended Council's
approval.
APPROVED CHANGE ORDER NO. 3 TO STREET IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
NO. ST. 2000 - 1.
9. CLAIMS:
APPROVED CLAIM NOS. 94137 THRUOGH 94316.
10. LICENSES:
APPROVED ALL LICENSES AS SUBMITTED.
11. ESTIMATES:
APPROVED ESTIMATES AS FOLLOWS:
Newquist & Ekstrum, Chartered
301 Fridley Plaza Office Building
6401 University Avenue N.E.
Fridley, MN 55432-4381
Services Rendered as City Prosecuting
Attorney for the Month of April, 2000 $ 17,594.00
Services Rendered for the Month of May, 2000 $ 459.00
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 10, 2000 PAGE 7
Frederic W. Knaak
Holstad and Knaak, P.L.C.
3535 Vadnais Center Drive
St. Paul, MN 55110
Services Rendered as City Attorney for the
Month of June, 2000
W.B. Miller, Inc.
6701 Norris Lake Road
Elk River, NIN 55330
2000 Street Improvement Project No. ST. 2000 - 1
Estimate No. 2
ADOPTION OF AGENDA:
$113,407.43
MOTION by Councilmember Billings to adopt the agenda with the addition of Item No. 6 placed
before Informal Status Reports listed as 14.b. Seconded by Councilmember Barnette.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR JORGENSON DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
OPEN FORUM,VISITORS:
No persons in the audience spoke.
PUBLIC HEARING:
12. RECONSIDERATION OF SPECIAL USE PERMIT, SP #94-18, FOR SINCLAIR
SERVICE GARAGE, GENERALLY LOCATED AT 6290 HIGHWAY 65 N.E.
(TABLED APRIL 10, 2000) (WARD ??):
MOTION by Councilmember Bolkcom to remove this item from the table and open the public
hearing. Seconded by Councilmember Wolfe.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR JORGENSON DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED AND THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS OPENED AT 7:50 P.M.
Mr. Hickok, Planning Coordinator, stated that there was discussion of the Sinclair site and
concern over the stipulations. Subsequent to that meeting, staff met with the operator of the site
and also with Sinclair corporate representatives. Staff went through each item on the special use
permit and discussed the stipulations. There was an agreement about what would happen with
each one of these stipulations. The first stipulation was that there would be a fenced screened
area behind the building. The screened fence would be eight feet in height and have a board on
board design with an opaque gate according to the approved plan. Used tires, the dumpster, and
the waste oil tanks and so forth should be placed within this storage area. The screened storage
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 10, 2000 PAGE 8
area is on the west side of the facility. The screened area was built and through
miscommunication they built a chain link fence with screening slats. It meets the intent of the
ordinance; however, they failed to see the specifics in the wood.
Mr. Hickok stated that the second stipulation states that no junk vehicles shall be stored on site.
Mr. Preciado, Operator of Sinclair, has agreed to monitor closely and maintain the site so that
stipulation is adhered to. The third stipulation is that vehicles leaking fluid shall not be stored
outside without a device to prevent fluid from running off the site. Mr. Preciado has agreed to
monitor and maintain the compliance of that stipulation. The fourth stipulation states that
signage shall comply with Chapter 214 of the City Code. Sinclair's signage does meet that
section. The fifth stipulation states that alterations to the site shall comply with the uniform fire
and building codes. The property meets those standards. The si�th stipulation states that the
petitioner shall provide on site additional landscaping areas by the concrete as indicated on the
improvement plan. The landscaped area shall included seed or sod, three ornamental trees and
shrub beds with evergreen and deciduous shrubs. Landscape shall be completed on or before
December 31, 1998. Sinclair has agreed to have the landscaping done by August 15 of this year
to comply.
Mr. Hickok stated that the seventh stipulation is that there shall be no vehicle storage outside the
screened area except for licensed motor vehicles, which are parked in designated parking stalls
provided that they are not parked there for more than 48 continuous hours. Mr. Preciado agreed
that he would monitor and maintain consistency with that stipulation. The eighth stipulation was
that the drive aisle shall be reduced to 32 feet and shall be completed on or before December 1 of
1998. Their analysis on the tanks revealed that they did not need new tanks and they lost the rest
of that stipulation. The code requires a 32 foot drive maximum at the curb. Mr. Haukaas is
working with them to have the curb improvements made that will put nice rounded end caps on
the landscaped area on the front of the pumps and will provide that standard 32 foot width. They
will do that during this year as coordinated with the public works staff and the concrete crew.
The cost will be entirely for Sinclair. Stipulation No. 9 states that in the event that this structure
is remodeled so the overhead doors are located other than on the east side of the building the
special use permit shall be reviewed again. This is not applicable at this time, however they
agreed that if that happens certainly they would come back.
Mr. Hickok stated that the tenth stipulation states that if additional parking areas are designated
above and beyond what is shown on the submitted plan City staff must approve the parking
areas. Mr. Preciado has indicated that he will do that parking in the very near future. He will
ask staff if there is an opportunity to bring in at least two more stalls. Mr. Preciado has indicated
that he will not allow people to park outside of the striped area. The eleventh stipulation states
that time improvements to stipulations number six and eight are started, petitioner shall submit a
performance bond of $5,000 to cover those. That would carry through the year 2001 to make
sure the landscape improvements stay vital and plants live and the site looks good. The
irrigation to those landscaped areas will happen at a time they refinish their curb and gutter.
Mr. Preciado, operator of the Sinclair site, stated that he would like to ask if he could add
parking. He would like to angle the north and south parking and run about three more that go
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 10, 2000 PAGE 9
east and west and add a handicapped spot right ne�t to the building ne�t to a non-handicapped
spot.
Mr. Hickok stated that he does not think that should be an issue. As long as the east and west
traffic can get in and out the parking should be fine.
Mr. Preciado stated that it still provides enough space to circle the structure.
Ms. Bolkcom asked Mr. Hickok if he could get back to Mr. Preciado before he actually adds the
parking.
Mr. Hickok stated that he would.
Mayor Jorgenson thanked Mr. Preciado for working with staff. She thought it came out to be a
win-win situation.
MOTION by Councilmember Wolfe to close the public hearing. Seconded by Councilmember
Barnette.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR JORGENSON DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY AND THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED
AT 8:02 P.M.
13. MOTION TO RECONSIDER SPECIAL USE PERMIT, SP #94-18, FOR
SINCLAIR SERVICE GARAGE, GENERALLY LOCATED AT 6290 HIGHWAY
65 N.E. (WARD ??):
Mr. Hickok, Planning Coordinator, stated that based on the activity and efforts of Sinclair and its
operator, staff recommend that Council allow continuance of the special use permit with the
modifications outlined in the previous presentation.
Mayor Jorgenson asked if that was with the stipulations placed on it.
Mr. Hickok stated that was correct. There were eleven stipulations which responses have been
received.
Councilmember Bolkcom asked if they are the original stipulations. She asked if staff did not
adding or delete any stipulations.
Mr. Hickok stated that they were the original stipulations.
MOTION by Councilmember Wolfe to allow continuance of the special use permit, SP #94-18,
for Sinclair Service Garage. sconded by Councilmember Barnette.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR JORGENSON DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY WITH THE FOLLOWING STIPULATIONS: 1)
A FENCED SCREENING AREA AT THE REAR OF THE BUILDING SHALL BE
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 10, 2000 PAGE 10
CREATED. THE SCREENING FENCE WILL BE 8 FEET HIGH IN HEIGHT, BOARD
ON BOARD DESIGN, WITH OPAQUE GATE (ACCORDING TO AN APPROVED
PLAN). USED TIRES, THE DUMPSTER, AND THE WASTE OIL TANK SHALL BE
STORED WITHIN THE STORAGE AREA; 2) NO JUNK VEHICLES SHALL BE
STORED ON SIDE; 3) VEHICLES LEAKING FLUID SHALL NOT BE STORED
OUTSIDE WITHOUT A DEVICE TO PREVENT FLUID FROM RUNNING OFF SITE;
4) THE SIGNAGE SHALL COMPLY WITH CHAPTER 214 OF THE CITY CODE; 5)
ALTERATIONS TO THE SITE SHALL COMCPLY WITH THE UBC AND UFC; 6)
THE PETITIONER ON-SITE SHALL PROVIDE ADDITIONAL LANDSCAPED AREAS
LINED WITH CONCRETE CURB AS INDICATED ON THE IMPROVEMENT PLAN.
THE LANDSCAPED AREAS SHALL INCLUDE UNDERGROUND IRRIGATION. THE
LANDSCAPED AREAS SHALL INCLUDE SEED OR SOD, THREE ORNAMENTAL
TREES AND SHRUB BEDS WITH EVERGREEN AND DECIDIOUS SHURBS.
LANDSCAPE SHALL BE COMPLETED ON OR BEFORE DECEMBER 31, 1998 OR
AT THE TIME OF THE INSTALLATION OF UNDERGROUND TANKS,
WHICHEVER OCCURS FIRST; 7) THERE SHALL NOT BE ANY OUTDOOR
STORAGE OUTSIDE OF THE SCREENED YARD AREA EXCEPT FOR LICENSED
MOTOR VEHICLES, WHICH ARE PARKED IN DESIGNATED PARKING STALLS
PROVIDED THEY ARE NOT PARKED OUTDOORS FOR MORE THAN 48
CONTINUOUS HOURS; 8) THE DRIVE AISLES SHALL BE REDUCED TO 32 FEET,
AND SHALL BE COMPLETED ON OR BEFORE DECEMBER 31, 1998 OR AT THE
TIME OF THE INSTALLATION OF THE UNDERGROUND TANKS, WHICHEVER
OCCURS FIRST; 9) IN THE EVENT THAT THE STRUCTURE IS REMODELED SO
THAT THE OVERHEAD DOORS ARE LOCATED OTHER THAN ON THE EAST
SIDE OF THE BUILDING, THE SPECIAL USE PERMIT SHALL BE REVIEWEDIO) IF
ADDITIONAL PARKING AREAS ARE DESIGNATED ABOVE AND BEYOND WHAT
IS SHOWN ON THE SUBMITTED PLAN, CITY STAFF IN ACCORDANCE WITH
THE ORDINANCE MUST APPROVE THESE PARKING AREAS; 11) AT THE TIME
THE IMPROVEMENTS IN STIPULATION NOS. 6 AND 8 ARE STARTED, THE
PETITIONER SHALL SUBMIT A PERFORMANCE BOND OF $5,000 TO COVER
THEM.
14. VARIANCE REQUEST, VAR #00-10, BY WOODCREST BAPTIST CHURCH,
TO INCREASE THE ALLOWABLE SQUARE FOOTAGE OF AN
INSTITUTIONAL SIGN, GENERALLY LOCATED AT 6875 UNIVERSITY
AVENUE N.E.:
Mr. Hickok, Planning Coordinator, stated that Woodcrest Baptist Church was seeking to increase
the size of the free-standing institutional sign from 32 square feet to 70 square feet. The church
is located at 6875 University Avenue and currently does not utilize a free-standing sign. Chapter
214 of the City Code requires an institutional sign to not exceed 32 square feet in size. The
petitioner's statement of hardship is "The sign that is too small to read would create safety
problems if people were to slow down to read the sign." Code requirements for sign variance
approval has two criteria. The first is that exceptional or e�traordinary circumstances applicable
to the property or the intended use that does not apply generally to other properties in the vicinity
or district. The sign code is enforced uniformly across the City, and no churches currently have
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 10, 2000 PAGE 11
institutional signs in excess of 32 square feet. The ne� criteria states that for the variance it is
necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of the substantial property rights possessed by
other properties in the same vicinity and district, but which is denied the property in question.
Larger than code signs are not a right possessed by others in the vicinity.
Mr. Hickok stated that the petitioner has additional wall sign opportunities. Any larger than code
signs along this stretch of University are for multi-tenant properties with unique hardships.
Texaco/Taco Bell asked for a larger sign and were denied. A multi-tenant building up the road
further asked for a larger sign and was denied. Historically, the City has approved variances
when a combination of two signs for the price of one such as Bob's Produce or Lyndale Garden
Center and chose to combine the signs and have one sign in an optimum location. They
combined their signs and reduced their overall square foot dimension they could have from 160
to 120 square feet.
Mr. Hickok stated that there is no real hardship here. There are no topographic constraints that
would produce a statutory hardship. The granting of the variance would not be materially
detrimental to the public health, safety, or general welfare or detrimental to the property vicinity.
A sign would give this church a commercial look in a residential district. Granting would set a
precedent for increasing the sign size for all places of worship in residential areas. The Appeals
Commission reviewed this and determined that Woodcrest Baptist Church was originally seeking
to increase the size of the free-standing sign from 32 square feet to 70 square feet but then
revised their request to 48 square feet. The Appeals Commission indicated that there is a lack of
hardship and a sign this size would be inconsistent in a residential district. The neighbor's
objections and precedence that would be set, the Appeals Commission voted to recommend
denial of any variance request that would exceed 32 square feet ma�mum size. Staff
recommended denial due to no statutory defined hardship, and no comparable variances have
been granted. The property is zoned residential and this would set a precedence for increasing
sign size for all places of worship in residentially zoned districts. The property has good
visibility from University Avenue, and the Appeals Commission found no hardship.
(incomplete sentence?) Councilmember Billings stated that when staff makes recommendations
for approval or stipulations to include the language of the sign code so variances do not last in
perpetuity but meet the requirements of the sign code for changes. This was discussed
e�tensively at the Appeals Commission.
MOTION by Councilmember Billings to deny variance #00-10. Seconded by Councilmember
Bolkcom.
Mayor 7orgenson asked if there was a petition from the neighbors regarding this sign.
Mr. Hickok stated that it was only verbal commentary indicating folks were not impressed with
having a sign that size in a residential district. There was teleophone commentary regarding the
opposition to this request.
Mayor Jorgenson asked if this is based on hearsay basically.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 10, 2000 PAGE 12
Mr. Hickok stated that folks sometimes would rather call staff to voice their opinions rather than
attend an Appeals meeting. Staff felt that it was important for residents to voice their opinion
during the meetings. Mr. Hickok believed there were two telephone comments.
Mayor Jorgenson asked for a vote on the motion.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR JORGENSON DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
14B. APPROVE CONTRACT BETWEEN THE CITY OF FRIDLEY AND
HOISINGTON KOEGLER GROUP, INC, FOR PLANNING SERVICES
PERTAINING TO THE PROPOSED NORTHSTAR COMMUTER RAIL SITE IN
FRIDLEY:
Councilmember Wolfe asked that if the Metropolitan Council and the Northstar Corridor the
commuter rail is such a good idea, why would the City spend $6,000 rather than those two
organizations.
Mr. Burns stated that he thought the organizations needed a few more steps in the process. This
question will be discussed in the public meeting.
Councilmember Wolfe stated that Metropolitan Council and the Northstar Corridor are the ones
who think this is the best idea and are all for it.
Mr. Burns stated that they are the ones that did the planning study and the project to raise money
from federal, state, and other sources.
Councilmember Billings stated that he does not think it would be totally inappropriate for the
City Council to indicate to the Northstar Corridor Development Authority that there are certain
processes and procedures in terms of communications with the citizens. The City requires
almost all applicants for rezoning and whatnot to go through and encourage all developers to
have public meetings. It would be appropriate to send a letter requesting reimbursement from
the Northstar Corridor Development Authority for the cost of this contract. He would be in
support of tabling this if the time constraints were not so critical.
MOTION by Councilmember Barnette to approve the contract between the City of Fridley and
Hoisington Koegler Group, Inc., for planning services pertaining to the proposed Northstar
Commuter Rail site in Fridley for the amount of $6,000. Seconded by Councilmember Bolkcom.
Councilmember Bolkcom stated that she wants to make sure that people realize this is not a done
deal. She said Council wants to know what residents concerns. That is why neighborhood
meetings are held. All residents are invited to attend whether or not they receive notices. These
meetings are to give information about the traffic issues, what it would look like, and what other
communities that have commuter rail look like. There are a lot of unknowns, but Council would
like to start informing residents and the business community. This is a consultant that has
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 10, 2000 PAGE 13
worked on the vision teams and comprehensive plan. Council is familiar with how he conducts
meeting. The company also has a good understanding of the comprehensive plan.
Councilmember Billings stated that Council is asking the Northstar Corridor Development
Authority to do more than make presentations. Council is asking them to have the public
meeting ahead of time and to make their presentation to the Planning Commission, then make the
presentation to the City Council. There are a lot more issues for Fridley than there are in Big
Lake or some of the cities along the route where the stations are going to an undeveloped
neighborhood. There are other issues that need to be brought out. Councilmember Bolkcom
took the lead on requesting them to make multiple presentations to Fridley. This is fair to ask
those organizations to pay the cost of the meetings even though we are asking them to hold the
meetings.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR JORGENSON DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
MOTION by Councilmember Wolfe to approve the resolution that City of Fridley request
funding from the Northstar Corridor Development Authority and the Metropolitan Council to
conduct all the necessary public hearings. Seconded by Councilmember Barnette.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR JORGENSON DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
14. INFORMAL STATUS REPORTS:
Mayor Jorgenson stated that she attended a retirement luncheon for Dick Larson. He served on
the Fire Department for over thirty years, was responsible for the hazardous material program,
and provided numerous hours of training for fire safety. She said he will be missed.
Mr. Burns stated that a meeting is scheduled for Tuesday afternoon, July 11 for the public
regarding Northern States Power clearcutting the trees around the Starlite Boulevard
neighborhood.
Councilmember Bolkcom stated that she and Councilmember Billings talked with an NSP
representative in St. Cloud about the issues with the trees which is how the idea for this meeting
got started.
Councilmember Billings stated that he has had conversations previously with the office of the
President of NSP. This meeting intends to explore possible options and if a remedy e�sts.
Mayor Jorgenson commended Councilmember Billings for contacting NSP.
Councilmember Bolkcom asked if Council could see an example of the new Medtronic sign
possibly at the ne�t meeting.
Mr. Hickok stated that the sign is a very elegant sign. One sign is on the building face closest to
I-694 and almost looks like a signature on the building as opposed to a big monstrous sign.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JULY 10, 2000 PAGE 14
Along the drive coming into the development that divides the two wetland areas, there is a
retaining wall on the backside of the wet areas that has the Medtronic sign. It is high enough that
it will not be affected by the pond elevations and low enough to reflect the word Medtronic off
the pond as you are driving into it.
Mr. Burns stated that they could have the signs shown at the ne�t meeting.
Mr. Hickok stated that he could do that.
ADJOURN:
MOTION by Councilmember Barnette to adjourn the meeting. Seconded by Councilmember
Bolkcom.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR JORGENSON DECLARED THE
JULY 10, 2000, CITY COUNCIL MEETING ADJOURNED AT 8:30 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Signe L. Johnson Nancy J. Jorgenson
Recording Secretary Mayor