CCM 09/28/2015
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
CITY OF FRIDLEY
SEPTEMBER 28, 2015
The City Council meeting for the City of Fridley was called to order by Mayor Lund at 7:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL:
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Mayor Lund
Councilmember Barnette
Councilmember Saefke
Councilmember Varichak
Councilmember Bolkcom
OTHERS PRESENT:
Wally Wysopal, City Manager
Darcy Erickson, City Attorney
Scott Hickok, Community Development Director
James Kosluchar, Public Works Director
Darin Nelson, Finance Director
PROCLAMATIONS:
Student Foreign Exchange Week, September 28 – October 4, 2015
Ina Duenwald from Germany
Jose Polit Tavera from Mexico
Domestic Violence Awareness Month - October 2015
Fire Prevention Week: October 4-10, 2015
APPROVAL OF PROPOSED CONSENT AGENDA:
Councilmember Barnette
asked for the definition of “statutory tort.”
Darin Nelson
, Finance Director, replied that each year, the City is required to confirm statutory
tort which sets dollar amounts if the City were to get sued. The statute allows the City to cap the
limit per occurrence.
Darcy Erickson,
City Attorney, added the City has the option of waiving the limit, but most
cities do not and Fridley elects to keep the cap. This is a protection of liability.
Councilmember Saefke
noted a correction on the Planning Commission minutes page 17, fifth
paragraph, remove the word “be” in the last sentence.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 28, 2015 PAGE 2
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR LUND DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
MOTION
by Councilmember Bolkcom to move into record the Safe Routes to School bid
tabulation with the additional contractor estimate. Seconded by Councilmember Saefke.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR LUND DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
City Council Meeting of September 14, 2015.
APPROVED.
NEW BUSINESS:
1.Receive the Planning Commission Minutes of September 16, 2015.
RECEIVED.
2.Resolution Confirming the Statutory Level of Tort Limits.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2015-43.
3.Resolution Directing Preparation of the Assessment Roll for the 2015 Nuisance
Abatement
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2015-44.
4.Resolution Directing Publication of Hearing on the Proposed Assessment Roll for the
2015 Nuisance Abatement
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 2015-45.
5.Receive Bids and Award Safe Routes to School Project No. ST2011-21
RECEIVED BIDS AND AWARDED SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL PROJECT NO.
ST2011-21 TO O’MALLEY CONSTRUCTION, INC.
6.Appointments (City Employee).
APPROVED.
7.Claims 169856 - 169973
APPROVED CLAIM NOS. 169856 – 169973.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 28, 2015 PAGE 3
8.Licenses.
APPROVED THE LICENSES AS SUBMITTED AND AS ON FILE.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA:
MOTION
by Councilmember Barnette to approve the proposed Consent Agenda. Seconded by
Councilmember Varichak.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR LUND DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
OPEN FORUM:
No one from the audience spoke.
ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA:
MOTION
by Councilmember Bolkcom to adopt the Agenda. Seconded by Councilmember
Saefke.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR LUND DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
PUBLIC HEARING:
9.Consideration of a Text Amendment, TA #15-03, by the City of Fridley to Amend the
Text of the Sign Code Reducing the Minimum Time for the Message to Change on the
Dynamic Electronic Reader Board Sign from 45 Seconds to 8 Seconds.
MOTION
by Councilmember Bolkcom to open the public hearing. Seconded by
Councilmember Saefke.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR LUND DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED AND THE PUBLIC HEARING OPENED AT 7:29P.M.
Scott Hickok,
Community Development Director, stated that over the last few months, staff met
with many businesses to discuss their business and relationships with the City. There were many
discussions about their displeasure with our sign code preventing a business or organization from
changing their electronic message more than every 45 seconds. As a result, Planning staff
researched traffic safety issues regarding electronic/dynamic signs. Staff also evaluated whether
or not a special use permit was necessary for an electronic sign, if performance standards were
clearly defined in the City code.
Mr. Hickok
noted that the safety of drivers was a large concern for staff, as we do not want to
contribute to distracted driving. In 2012, a study was done by the US Department of
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 28, 2015 PAGE 4
Transportation. In that study, glances off the road to electronic/dynamic signs were measured to
see if distraction factor was any different from non-digital signs. The study found that the driver
did not glance at the electronic sign any longer than a regular sign. In some cities, the study
showed the electronic signs were less distracting.
Mr. Hickok
stated staff found that in cities around Fridley, the times messages changed varied.
Some followed MnDOT’s allowable time of 8 seconds. Some picked a time they considered
reasonable. The range of times went from 4 seconds to 15 minutes in Plymouth. Most cities
tend to have allowable times in the 4 to 10 second range. MnDOT wants messages to change 1
second for every word, or 2 seconds for every unit of information to ensure the driver sees the
whole message.
Mr. Hickok
said after reviewing a number of studies indicating that the timing of message
changes had little impact on drivers, staff recommends changing the sign code to allow messages
to change every 8 seconds, a common number used across many cities and MnDOT’s standard.
After this research, staff also decided there should be a limit on how bright signs can be. A
common luminance level was 500 nits (a way to measure how much light a sign puts out) during
the nighttime hours, and 3,500-7,000 nits during the daytime hours. Considering these factors,
staff recommends adding a new section to our electronic/dynamic sign code that outlines the
luminance level the signs are limited to. Staff will add the following conditions to our
electronic/dynamic signs code, within the C-1, C-2, C-3, CR-1, M-1, M-2 and M-3 zoning
districts and for institutions:
Electronic Message and/or Dynamic Sign:
1. Message does not change more than once every eight (8) seconds.
2. Message shall never flash or have motion that may distract vehicular traffic.
3. Luminance levels must comply with the following:
Not more than 5,000 nits in the daytime hours and not more than 500 nits in the
evening nighttime hours.
Mr. Hickok
said due to the Planning Commission feedback questioning whether these signs
needed to obtain a special use permit, staff studied that issue. It was determined that if the code
performance standards above were complied with, a special use permit would be unnecessary.
Staff studied nearby cities to see if they issue special use permits for electronic signs and about
half of them do. Staff considers this an opportunity to make the sign permit process much
simpler on the applicant. Therefore, staff recommends deleting the existing language that states
“Any electronic message and/or dynamic sign shall meet all requirements of special use permit
provisions of this Code.” In turn Staff would recommend the addition of language to read:
Electronic Message and/or Dynamic Sign:
1. Message does not change more than once every eight (8) seconds.
2. Message shall never flash or have motion that may distract vehicular traffic.
3. Luminance levels must comply with the following:
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 28, 2015 PAGE 5
Not more than 5,000 nits in the daytime hours and not more than 500 nits in the
evening nighttime hours.
Mr. Hickok
continued that in Section 214.07, signs allowed with a special use permit, electronic
signs are mentioned as signs that need a special use permit. Staff will delete that language all
together leaving just Billboards under Section 214.07. Other sign code modifications will be
made under “definitions” as electronic/dynamic sign is a common term describing these types of
signs. The current code does not have a consistent name for these types of signs. Staff
recommends adding the following definition: Electronic Message and/or Dynamic Sign
Programmable electronic message board and/or programmable illuminated sign.
Mr. Hickok
noted that this was unanimously approved at the September 16, 2015, Planning
Commission Meeting and city staff recommends concurrence with the Planning Commission and
that Council hold a public hearing. The first reading is scheduled for October 12, 2015 unless
otherwise directed by Council.
MOTION
by Councilmember Bolkcom to move into record 3 pages of the ordinance. Seconded
by Councilmember Saefke.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR LUND DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
Councilmember Bolkcom
asked what a dynamic sign was.
Mr. Hickok
replied it is an electronic message center used more for gas price changing,
announcements for business, etc.
Councilmember Bolkcom
asked why on number 6 there is a B and no A. The next page also is
not in order; there is an E and a G.
Mr. Hickok
replied that he would follow up on that before the first reading.
Councilmember Bolkcom
asked what a flashing sign was.
Mr. Hickok
replied that the sign would flash like the word sign. The Code does not allow that.
Councilmember Bolkcom
asked on 214.11 if there is just an E listed if that is the only change.
Mr. Hickok
replied yes; that would also be true with the first page. Only the changes are
documented.
Mayor Lund
added this does not include the entire ordinance; only the changes.
Councilmember Bolkcom
asked why some electronic signs need a special use permit and others
do not.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 28, 2015 PAGE 6
Mr. Hickok
replied the impact of electronic signs is not as great as anticipated. This will create
the same look for everyone.
Councilmember Bolkcom
stated that electronic sign requests would still be reviewed by staff
and require a sign permit, just not a special use permit.
Mr. Hickok
replied that is correct.
Mayor Lund
noted that it states that the sign would change one second for every word or two
seconds for every unit of information. The next sentence recommends eight seconds as that is
common across the cities and MnDOT standard. He asked what the correct time was.
Mr. Hickok
replied that eight seconds is MnDOT standard. The 1-2 second language refers to
the actual change; but the message can stay up for eight seconds.
MOTION
by Councilmember Barnette to close the public hearing. Seconded by
Councilmember Varichak.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR LUND DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY AND THE PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED AT
7:46 P.M.
NEW BUSINESS:
10.Special Use Permit Request, SP #15-09, by TCO Design, Inc., to Modify Special Use
Permit, SP #14-07, which allowed a Comprehensive Home Health Care Building at
5300 – 5310 Fourth Street. The Modification will Increase the Size of the Building
from 2,486 Square Feet to 5,732 Square Feet and the Number of Beds from 15 to 23.
the Increase in Building Size will be to accommodate the Additional Units and Inside
Parking Stalls. The Overall Height of the Building and the use will Remain the Same,
Generally Located at 5300 and 5310 Fourth Street N.E.;
and
Resolution Approving Special Use Permit, SP #115-09, for TCO Design, the
Petitioner, on Behalf of Gen One LLC, the Property Owner of 5300 Fourth Street
N.E. and 5310 Fourth Street N.E. (Ward 1).
Scott Hickok,
Community Development Director, stated that the petitioner, Todd Ofsthun, with
TCO Design, on behalf of AP Ventures, LLC and Gen One, LLC, the property owners of 5300
th
and 5310 4 street NE, are seeking a special use permit to modify the special use permit that was
originally approved by City Council on March 9, 2015, to allow the construction of a
comprehensive home care building on the subject properties. The property owners have advised
the petitioner to submit the proposed request to increase the size of the project at this time rather
than construct an addition to the building in the future because of the increased interest and
perceived demand for this type of facility in this area. The modification of the project will
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 28, 2015 PAGE 7
increase the size of the building from 2,486 square feet to 5,732 square feet, and the number of
beds from 15 to 23. The increase in the building size will be to accommodate additional units
and inside parking stalls. The overall height of the building and use will remain the same.
Mr. Hickok
said after hearing from the petitioner and one guest, the Planning Commission
recommended approval at their September 16, 2015 meeting. City staff recommends
concurrence with the Planning Commission for approval with eight stipulations.
Councilmember Saefke
asked for clarification under correction and replacement in 2014.
Mr. Hickok
replied that there was a petition made in 2014 and the timing was delayed as they
purchased the property and there was approval already for a 15-bed facility. The footprint was
enlarged from a 15-bed to a 23-bed facility. This motion will replace the one approved earlier
this year.
Councilmember Saefke
asked if the SUP would be approved the day they apply or when
Council approves the resolution.
Mr. Hickok
replied that it would not be approved until Council approves the resolution. This
will stay with the property. The original SUP is being replaced with a larger footprint.
Mayor Lund
noted that the 2014 application did not get approved until 2015.
Councilmember Bolkcom
asked if staff thought 20 parking spaces was adequate with no
parking on the street. If this is not acceptable, would staff revisit the issue? Are there other
areas for more parking on this site if needed?
Mr. Hickok
replied yes. Additional spaces are available on the site.
MOTION
by Councilmember Saefke to replace the resolution Council received with the
resolution in the book. Seconded by Councilmember Bolkcom.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR LUND DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED UNANIOUSLY
MOTION
by Councilmember Saefke to approve Special Use Permit Request, SP #15-09, by
TCO Design, Inc., to Modify Special Use Permit, SP #14-07, which allowed a Comprehensive
Home Health Care Building at 5300 – 5310 Fourth Street, with the following eight stipulations:
1. The petitioner shall obtain a demolition permit prior to removal of the exiting house on the
th
5300 4 street property.
2. The petitioner shall obtain all necessary permits prior to construction.
3. The petitioner shall meet all building, fire, and ADA requirements.
4. City engineering staff to review and approve grading, drainage and utility plan prior to
issuance of a building permit.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 28, 2015 PAGE 8
5. Landscape and Irrigation plan to be reviewed and approved by City Staff prior to issuance of
a building permit.
6. If on-street parking becomes an issue as a result of this use, the special use permit and
options for additional parking shall be further reviewed by City Council at the owner’s
expense.
7. If the comprehensive home health care use changes, the special use permit shall be further
reviewed by the City Council.
8. The petitioner shall file the necessary documents with Anoka County to combine both of the
th
lots involved in this project, 5300 and 5310 4 Street, prior to issuance of a building permit.
and
Adopt Resolution No. 2015-46.
Councilmember Bolkcom
noted that this property is for home health care uses. If the property
changes, the SUP would have to come back to Council and that is one of the stipulations.
Mr. Hickok
replied correct. The SUP relates to extraordinary impacts. If it is perceived as an
impact Council, would see this again.
Mayor Lund
asked the petitioner if he was ok with the stipulations.
Todd Ofsthun,
Petitioner, replied yes. He said that the parking analysis was done by experts
and he was confident they would be able to keep the cars on site.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR LUND DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
11.Resolution Certifying Proposed Tax Levy Requirements for 2016 to the County of
Anoka.
Darin Nelson,
Finance Director, reported that this proposed 2016 levy complies with the City
Charter requirements regarding inflationary increases and public disclosure. The total proposed
2016 levy equals $12,200,835, which is $466,228 or 3.97% more than the 2015 levy. The City
Charter restricts our 2016 levy to an operational increase of 1.4%, which amounts to about
$146,200. Offsetting this increase is an expiring debt service payment, which amounts to
$172,000. Combining the operational increase and the expiring debt service payment would
result in a net reduction to the levy.
Mr. Nelson
noted that staff proposed to Council in August that the City prepay the debt service
payments on two outstanding street improvement bonds. These bonds are set to expire in 2018
and 2019. Prepaying these bonds will save almost $40,000 in interest expense over the next two
years. This proposal will increase the total levy by $492,000 for a net increase of $466,228 or
3.97%. Preliminary tax estimates have the financial impact at approximately $5 for a home with
a market value of $215,000. Below are the property valuation changes from 2014 to 2015
(January 1, 2015 value is used to calculate Pay 2016 taxes).
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 28, 2015 PAGE 9
Residential = -0.35% Market Value Decrease
C/I = 7.6% Market Value Increase
Apartments = 8.7% Market Value Increase
Residential property values are 56% of the City’s total market value (59% in prior year)
Mr. Nelson
stated these changes in valuations among the different property types will shift the
tax burden accordingly. Due to a larger percentage increase than residential property,
commercial and industrial and apartment property owners will see a higher percentage increase
compared to the total levy increase of 3.97%. Truth in Taxation notices will be mailed to all
property owners mid-November. This is a proposed levy and is required to be provided to the
County Auditor by September 30. This proposed levy is the maximum that can be certified to
the County Auditor in December and the amount can be reduced prior to that time, but cannot be
increased.
Mr. Nelson
noted that in keeping with state law regarding budget meeting for the 2016 budget,
we are announcing that the public meeting for the 2016 Budget and Tax Levy will be held on
December 14 at 7:00 p.m. at the Fridley Municipal Center. The City is scheduled to hold another
budget work session on November 23 in meeting rooms 1 and 2 at the Fridley Municipal Center.
Staff’s recommendation is to adopt the Resolution Certifying the Proposed Tax Levy
Requirements for 2016.
Councilmember Barnette
noted that the financial impact is less than $5 for a home value of
$258,000.
Councilmember Bolkcom
added with the levy limits, the City is suffering, as we cannot have
additional policeman or firefighters. It may seem grand in a sense but we are using our fund
balances.
MOTION
by Councilmember Saefketo adopt Resolution No. 2015-47. Seconded by
Councilmember Barnette.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR LUND DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
12. Resolution adopting the 2016 Proposed Budget.
Darin Nelson,
Finance Director, stated the certification of the Proposed Budget must be to the
County Auditor by September 30in accordance with State law regarding budget levies. The City
is following all of the open process requirements laid out in Chapter 275 of State Statutes. The
City, by having this item on the agenda this evening, is complying with Section 7.05 of the City
Charter requiring that the proposed budget be a principal item of business at a regular meeting in
September.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 28, 2015 PAGE 10
Mr. Nelson
said the proposed total General Fund expenditures are set to increase 3.9 percent
which includes:
2.0 percent COLA increase for personnel services
Step increases for a workforce that is actively turning over
$55,000 for election judge personnel
No new positions
Zero percent increase for Supplies and OS&C
The proposed General Fund revenues are expected to increase by 3.4 percent.
1.4 percent increase in taxes
$250,000 of LGA is being moved from the CIP into the General Fund operations.
This is a shift in philosophy over what has been done the last several years
with 100 percent of LGA being dedicated to capital projects.
Mr. Nelson
reviewed the remaining steps in the budgeting process:
Council budget work session is to be held on November 23 in the lower level of the
Municipal Center.
Public meeting on the Budget, December 14, which will include discussion on both
the levy and budget resolutions.
An in depth overview of the 2016 budget will be provided at the December 8 Council
meeting, which again is a public meeting during which the public is welcome to
comment.
At the December 28 Council meeting, resolutions will be presented to Council
requesting approval of both the 2016 final tax levy and the final budget.
Staff recommends Council’s approval.
Mayor Lund
said he hopes the budget in the future will not require to take away from LGA each
year as it cuts into the capital improvement projects.
Mr. Nelson
replied that basic funding sources are used for the improvement on buildings, parks,
etc.
Mayor Lund
said he understands the restrictions, and hopes the City is able to get back on task.
MOTION
by Councilmember Saefke to adopt Resolution No. 2015-48. Seconded by
Councilmember Bolkcom.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR LUND DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 28, 2015 PAGE 11
13.Motion to Select the Columbia Arena Site for a Future Mixed Use Campus Including:
a Civic Campus of City Hall, Police Department, Fire Department, and Public Works
Department, and Possible Community Center, Allowing Room for a Public Plaza,
While Allowing Room for a Private Residential Development with Densities and
Development Type to be Determined by Further Analysis, Once the Actual Footprint
of the Civic Campus and Public Plaza Space on the Site is Known and all Consistent
with the Recommendations of the Columbia Arena Engagement Process.
Scott Hickok,
Community Development Director, noted the question if the City bought
Columbia Arena to build a new City Hall has been asked by a few, but it is not entirely accurate
in its facts or premise. The Fridley Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) purchased
Columbia Arena. The City provided the HRA with a portion of the money and will be paid back
through development re-imbursements when a new development occurs. The HRA’s purpose
was to remove blight, and through that demolition, the site could be prepared for new
development. What the development is would need to be determined, but 9 years of private site
ownership yielded 3 approved plans, without any new development. By owning the site, the
HRA can better control the destiny of the site and they can assure that this premier future
development opportunity does not go to waste.
Mr. Hickok
stated in October 2013, the City Manager engaged the services of HCM Architects
to analyze the existing City Hall and Public Works facility to make recommendations about best
future expenditures relative to our next 50 years in this building. Accessibility issues being the
largest factor, followed by the serious need to update areas of differed maintenance, Council,
with the help of the final HCM Report, found it to be prudent to compare the cost of building
new vs. renovating existing spaces for the City Hall and Public Works Complex. If given the
opportunity, Council would prefer to have all services together.
Mr. Hickok
stated that Council looked at nine candidate locations for City Hall initially:
•Columbia Arena
•Commons Park Site
•East Train Station Site
•East Shore Moore Lake Site
•Existing “City Hall” site
•John Allen Site
•Minco vacant parcels
•Moon Plaza
•Tried and True Tools
•
Several Council and staff workshops where held before Council meetings throughout early to
mid-2015. In May, Council eliminated 4 potential locations. These locations were:
•John Allen site
•Minco vacant parcels
•Moon Plaza
•Tried and True Tools
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 28, 2015 PAGE 12
This kept 5 sites available for further discussion in May and June. These sites were:
•Columbia Arena
•Existing “City Hall” site
•East Train Station Site
•Commons Park Site
•East Shore Moore Lake Site
Option 1: Columbia Arena
Pros
City/HRA owned land. Near existing Public Works. Fairly central in City. Matches
what folks have said at Arena Forums. Prominent location.
Cons
Eliminates some acreage that could be higher revenue producing with other development,
Volunteer Fire Fighters would need to drive further. Access to University Avenue.
Option 2, Existing City Plaza Site
Pros
Local people know where it is. Exists on a professional campus now. Central location
for Fire Response.
Cons
Building does not meet modern Code requirements in many regards. Would cost $17
million to create a 50-year future for this complex, Separate City Hall and Public Works.
Option 3, East Train Station Site.
Pros
HRA owns site. Heavy Public Works uses near industry. Right at train station. Could be
combined with condominium complex and share parking. Private development interest
in partnering.
Cons
Uses land that could generate tax increment financing for a non-taxed use.
Option 4, Commons Park
Pros
st
Central part of City. On east-west connector street. City-owned site. Segment of 61
Avenue could be closed occasionally for civic events, expanding civic space. Could be
combined with school
Cons
Takes away park space, Certain times of the day roadway would not be easily
maneuverable for emergencies, Neighbors bought to be by park. Public Works trucks
and emergency siren noise would be closer and more objectionable.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 28, 2015 PAGE 13
Option 5, East Coast of Moore Lake
Pros
Excellent site for architectural aesthetic (reflecting off Moore Lake). Could be connected
to Lifetime for Shoreview-type experience. Easy to find. Great views over lake. Great
companion to park.
Cons
Only partially City owned, three houses would need to be purchased
Value: $254,600
$220, 500
$220,600
$695,700 *
Not central location for Fire response. Emergency access across roadways may be
difficult at times.
Mr. Hickok
noted that Council discussed the Fire Department’s analysis of the various sites.
The Police Department indicated that though they would prefer a central location, it is less a
factor for them since they are a mobile operation that covers the community. Their response to
an incident begins at the location where they hear the call. Fire has indicated that response time
for their on-call staff is an important factor.
Mr. Hickok
stated also discussed as important was a new access point at the Columbia Arena
location. One option is a right-in, right-out onto University and a second option is a new street
strd
going north from 71 to 73, along the western edge of the Target Distribution Facility. Cost for
land acquisition for this roadway would run approximately $175,000.00 ($1.97 s.f.) Cost for
Roadway installation $185,250 ($150 l.f.)
Mr. Hickok
said this kept 3 sites available for further discussion in August and September.
These sites were:
•Columbia Arena
•Existing “City Hall” site
•East Train Station Site
•
COSTS for Municipal campus construction:
Scenario #1 (Col. Arena) $30,750,000.00*
*Plus cost to enhance plaza
Scenario #2A (East Train ) $40,025,000.00
Scenario #2B (Civic Only) $33,198,750.00
Scenario #3 (Existing) $37,326,703.00*
*Plus land to relocate Public Works
Mr. Hickok
stated that on March 11, 2015, the first of four public engagement meetings were
held. The purpose was to elicit comment from the public regarding what they saw as the best
reuse of the Columbia Arena Site. During the March 25, 2015, meeting, participants suggested
that the arena site should be used for a civic campus. On April 8, the participants in the public
engagement process heard from private developers about the prospects for development on the
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 28, 2015 PAGE 14
Columbia Arena Site. At the April 22 public engagement meeting, a set of recommendations
was prepared to reflect the common interests of the group that participated.
Mr. Hickok
reported that the recommendation is out from the Citizen group who participated in
the public engagement process. “Option B” prevailed, though “Option C” was a very close
second. The entire summary document, recommendation from the citizen committee, and
videos are available on the City’s web site. In simple terms, the group wanted: a civic presence
(many spoke of a desire for a new City Hall, Public Works, Police and Fire facility), something
“grand”, and potentially a partnership with a private partner to defray costs/help pay taxes.
Department Director’s Recommendation:
Recommend Columbia Arena as the best location for the new civic complex when
all factors have been evaluated (unanimous).
Housing and Redevelopment Authority’ s Recommendation:
Recommend Columbia Arena as the best location for the new civic complex when
all factors have been evaluated (unanimous).
Staff Recommendation:
Staff recommends that that City Council select the Columbia Arena Site for a
future mixed use campus of City Hall, Police Department, Fire Department,
Public Works Department and potentially Community Center, as this matches the
recommendations of our Citizen Group, the HRA, and the Department managers.
This site represents the most cost-effective solution.
Councilmember Bolkcom
asked if the City Council adopts this site what the next steps would
be.
Mr. Hickok
reviewed the following time line:
Masterplan, Council Sessions, Department Manager sessions, build design
specifications - 4 months
Design Process - 8 months
Bidding Process - 2 months
Contract negotiations - 2 months
Construction - 12 to 18 months
Total 28- 34 months.
Wally Wysopal
, City Manager, asked what the process was for private work that would be done
in terms of housing.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 28, 2015 PAGE 15
Mr. Hickok
replied that it is a two-track process. Staff will work with an architect on the basic
elements. Staff will get the time right to attract a developer on site in time to work with an
architect on the outdoor piece.
Mayor Lund
asked when the public would be engaged on this project. Large numbers were
shared tonight. Staff will come forward when they have spent some time with a developer
reflecting more accurate numbers.
Mr. Hickok
replied that this is a shared amenity and information will be shared on the website.
Councilmember Bolkcom
recalled that at the last meeting there was conversation about
checking with developers related to Public Works.
Mr. Hickok
replied that is part of this early piece to make sure we are on the market.
Pam Reynolds,
1241 Norton, noted that on the last page of the packet it shows that staff is
asking Council tonight to build city hall on this site. She thinks a step was skipped and staff
failed to ask citizens who own City Hall. The people should be asked if they want to pay $30M
to build a new one or $18M to fix the current one. Read the developer’s comments in this report;
two were no’s, three said maybe, one gave recommendation what to use it for. She is upset this
is going forward. Public hearings were held after it was decided to build this building with no
indication to taxpayers on the cost. This is moving too fast. There was no approving a site or
approving building the building, but staff is running straight forward to a 34-month completion
of a project. If people would have known that was on the agenda tonight she would not be the
only one here. Staff is moving forward without asking anyone. Fifty-four people were at the
first meeting discussing the concepts and seniors do not want high density housing.
Mayor Lund
replied that the people that were at the meetings that were held wanted all public
use, and not private. Ms. Reynolds was invited to those meetings but did not come.
Ms. Reynolds
replied that 6:00 p.m. is not a good time for a meeting for those who have a life.
She asked why the meetings could not have been at 7:00 p.m. so people have time to get to the
meeting after work.
Mayor Lund
replied that a 7:00 p.m. meeting would get too late; there is no perfect time. Staff
tried to make it best for people; not too early and not too late.
Ms. Reynolds
recalled at a previous session that people did not want developers there because
the developer said what the people wanted would cost too much money to build something that
will look nice.
Mayor Lund
replied that the developer will build what the market wants.
Ms. Reynolds
said she did not think Public Works fit with this project and said that the next
thing will be to move Public Works for $30M.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 28, 2015 PAGE 16
Mayor Lund
replied that this is an early preliminary concept design. Selecting the site is the
first step and now staff needs to find out from developers what is feasible. The timeline
presented tonight will change many times.
Ms. Reynolds
asked if tonight Council was just approving the Columbia Arena site for further
research.
Mayor Lund
replied that Council is looking at approving the Columbia Arena site.
Ms. Reynolds
asked if the Columbia Arena site would be the new municipal center.
Mayor Lund
replied yes; that is the goal.
Mr. Wysopal
added that this is a simple motion to have clarity and know what is necessary to
take on a project like this. It is not obligating taxpayers’ money or entering into any agreements.
This is Council’s intentions. There will be many opportunities in the future for public
involvement.
Mayor Lund
stated staff started with looking at nine sites for a new municipal center and now
are down to one site.
Ms. Reynolds
asked if tonight’s proceeding was that a city hall would be built at the Columbia
Arena site.
Mayor Lund
replied that a lot of things need to come to fruition by more formal proceedings.
We do not know how we are even going to pay for it. It is unclear if this will become reality
right now but staff will keep working at it and more details will be forthcoming.
Councilmember Barnette
asked if Mr. Reynolds wanted this to go out to the people to see what
site they elect to be appropriate for the municipal center.
Ms. Reynolds
replied that the people should be asked if they want to build a new municipal
center. Each one of these steps costs money.
Councilmember Barnette
noted that if there was a new city hall built or we kept the one we
have, both would cost money.
Ms. Reynolds
said that in Blaine they asked the people about building a new municipal center
and the people said no.
Councilmember Barnette
replied that eventually Blaine did build a new city hall.
Mayor Lund
stated that something needs to be done with city hall. It is unfortunate Ms.
Reynolds was unable to come to the meetings. Staff will keep the public posted on what is
happening.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 28, 2015 PAGE 17
Mr. Hickok
stated that the first session of the four meetings did not have anything to do with
design. These meetings were not facilitated by City staff and were to hear what the people
wanted. People in the room were saying they wanted a new city hall and that it needed to be nice
and the people were willing to pay for it. A recap of the meeting can be found on the website.
Margaret Mackelberg,
425 Rice Creek Blvd, thanked staff for their hard work and appreciated
that they took into consideration the four meetings they attended in making this decision.
Councilmember Bolkcom
knows that Public Works struggles with their current facility and is
aware that OSHA requirements are not being met. There is more than just few cosmetic things
that need to be done.
Mayor Lund
noted that three different developers had approved projects to build on this site and
due to financing and other complicated issues, the developments never happened. It is time for
the City to get involved to have better control of what will happen on this site. At the same time,
we need to look at what should be done to City Hall and we are on the right track. People are
content to leave it to the elected officials to determine the future.
Councilmember Bolkcom
said that the capital improvements related to the current building are
costing money too. There is parking ramp water drainage issues, roof, HVAC, etc., which is all
very expensive and the building is older.
Councilmember Saefke
recalled that the Fire Department was built in 1949. The parking deck
needs repair, as it is falling apart. A lot of things need to be fixed. $17-18M will make this
building legal but it will not last for 50 years. A new City Hall needs to be built.
MOTION
by Councilmember Saefke to select the Columbia Arena Site for a Future Mixed Use
Campus Including: a Civic Campus of City Hall, Police Department, Fire Department, and
Public Works Department, and Possible Community Center, Allowing Room for a Public Plaza,
While Allowing Room for a Private Residential Development with Densities and Development
Type to be Determined by Further Analysis, Once the Actual Footprint of the Civic Campus and
Public Plaza Space on the Site is Known and all Consistent with the Recommendations of the
Columbia Arena Engagement Process. Seconded by Councilmember Bolkcom.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR LUND DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
14. Approve Revisions to 2015 Street Project No. ST2015-01 for Third Street N.E.
Jim Kosluchar,
Public Works Director, stated that as part of the open house meeting and
preliminary assessment hearing for the 2015 Street Project ST2015-01, residents were heard in
regard to their concerns about speed on Third Street NE. Staff developed a solution to this issue
that would also provide water quality benefits by including bump-outs at regular intervals along
the roadway. Some of these would provide water quality treatment, and some would be installed
at current elevation to maintain regular spacing and speed control. Those that are included to
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 28, 2015 PAGE 18
provide a water quality benefit are able to be funded by the Mississippi Watershed Management
Organization.
City staff met with residents of Third Street on two occasions to discuss their plans. Residents
indicated their support for the bump-outs, but some were concerned about compliance with stop
control at the intersection of Horizon Drive.
Mr. Kosluchar
said a subsequent meeting was held onsite, and surveys were sent to residents of
Third Street regarding three options. One was to leave the intersection as it is; one was to add a
diverter, which would close Third Street at Horizon Drive; and a third was to provide a raised
intersection at Horizon Drive. Feedback at the second meeting and from the survey indicated a
majority of support for the raised intersection option. The cost of this raised intersection is
estimated at approximately $4,000. As these elements are not part of a customary street
treatment, staff is requesting Council action to approve their incorporation into the project.
Mr. Kosluchar
stated that staff recommends the City Council move to approve the revisions to
the 2015 Street Project ST2015-01 on Third Street to incorporate bump-outs from 49th to 53rd
Avenue and a raised intersection at Horizon Drive . If Council approves this recommendation,
staff will direct the modification through the current contract with Kuechle Construction, Inc.
MOTION
by Councilmember Bolkcom to approve the revisions to the 2015 Street Project No.
ST2015-01 for Third Street N.E. Seconded by Councilmember Saefke.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR LUND DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
15.Receive Bids and Award Contracts for Springbrook Nature Center Improvements
Project
Jack Kirk
stated the improvements include a remodel of the current facility and an addition.
The last bids that came in for the improvements were $1.5M over due to the timing and
construction season. On Wednesday, September 23, 2015, at 2:00 p.m., bids were opened for
the Springbrook Nature Center Improvements Project. Fourteen categories were listed as
separate bid divisions and awarded individually. A total of 41 responsive bids were received.
The renovated and expanded interpretive building will include expanded exhibit space, new
classroom/gathering space for education and larger group events, better facilities for animal care
and display, some site improvements and added restroom accommodations that meet ADA
requirements.
Mr. Kirk
stated that this project is being funded in large part by a State of Minnesota Bonding
Bill Grant to the City of Fridley for $5,000,000. Additional costs on this project of up to
$460,000 will be covered by the Springbrook Nature Center Foundation. Staff recommends the
City Council move to receive the bids per the attached bid tabulation and award each of the
respective division contracts, including alternates for number 3, 4, 5 and 10 to the respective low
responsive bidder as listed above for the Springbrook Nature Center Project with the above
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 28, 2015 PAGE 19
aggregate total amount of $3,639,871.98. If Council approves this item, our construction
Manager will notify each of the contractors of the award
Councilmember Barnette
asked if the $5.0M was from the state.
Mr. Kirk
replied yes; that is a bonding bill grant awarded to the city. The remaining funds are
provided by funds from local nonprofit, Springbrook Nature Center Foundation.
Councilmember Bolkcom
asked about the breakdown of $3.6M for the fees, furnishing etc.;
that is not for tonight but to follow up later with Council. She was confused about the alternates
of 3, 4, 5 and 10.
Mr. Kirk
replied that Council is to accept page 116 only listing numbers 3, 4, 5 and 10.
Councilmember Bolkcom
asked if on page 111 one bid was incomplete.
Mr. Kirk
replied that is correct; one bid left out something from the base bid so it did not meet
minimum requirements. That company understood that should have been included and it was an
incomplete bid.
MOTION
by Councilmember Bolkcom toReceive the Bids and Award Contracts for
Springbrook Nature Center Improvements Project. Seconded by Councilmember Saefke.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR LUND DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
16.Informal Status Reports:
Wally Wysopal,
City Manager, noted the following reports:
Fire Department open house will be on October 3 from 11a.m. to 3 p.m. at Fire Station 1.
Columbia Arena is making progress and staff is pleased with the demolition. It is on schedule.
The challenge this weekend is the recycling event that will be held in the north parking lot
October 3 from 9-1.
The sealcoat street project was interrupted by work that was done by CenterPoint Energy. Most
people affected will get a letter by the end of the week and CenterPoint will pay to repair the
streets.
The next HRA meeting is on October 1 at 7 p.m. and the Parks & Recreation Commission and
Charter Commission meetings are October 5 at 7 p.m.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 28, 2015 PAGE 20
ADJOURN:
MOTION
by Councilmember Barnette to adjourn. Seconded by Councilmember Varichak.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR LUND DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY AND THE MEETING ADJOURNED AT 10:06
P.M.
Respectfully Submitted,
Krista Peterson Scott J. Lund
Recording Secretary Mayor