09/25/2000 - 4695OFFICIAL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
SEPTEMBER r, 2000
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� CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 25, 2000
CRY OF
FRIDLEY
The City of Fridley will not discriminate against or harass anyone in the admission or access to, or
treatment, or employment in its services, programs, or activities because of race, color, creed, religion,
national origin, sex, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation or status with regazd to public
assistance. Upon request, accommodation will be provided to allow individuals with disabilities to
participate in any of Fridley's services, programs, and activities. Hearing impaired persons who need an
interpreter or other persons with disabilities who require auxiliary aids should contact Roberta. Collins at
572-3500 at least one week in advance. (TTD/572-3534)
PR/OR TO THE CITY COUNCIL MEET/NG, A VIDEOTAPE FROM THE LEAGUE OF
M/NNESOTA C/T/ES ENT/TLED "BUILD/NG QUALITY COMMUN/T1ES" WILL BE SHOWN.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE.
PROCLAMATIONS:
Student Foreign Exchange Week: September 25 - October 1, 2000
Alfiya Battalova — Russia
Andrew Beauchamp — New Zealand
Carol Rodriquez Lora — Dominican Republic _
Fire Prevention Week: October 8- 14, 2000
Domestic Violence Awareness Month: October, 2000
APPROVAL OF PROPOSED CONSENT AGENDA:
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
City Council Meeting of September 11, 2000
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 25, 2000 PAGE 2
APPROVAL OF PROPOSED CONSENT AGENDA:
NEW BUSINESS:
1. Receive the Minutes of the Planning Commission Meeting
of September 6, 2000 -
................................................................... 1 19
2. Resolution Approving a Subdivision, Lot Split,
LS #00-04, to Establish a Size Conforming Commercial
Lot, Generally Located at 5943 University Avenue N.E.
(by Earl Weikle & Sons and Van O Lite) (Ward 1) ........................ 20 - 25
3. Variance Request, VAR #00-21, by Earl Weikle & Sons,
to Reduce the Required Parking Setback from 20
Feet to 10 Feet, to Reduce the 15 Foot Planting Strip
to 10 Feet, and to Reduce the Parking Stall Width from
10 Feet to 9 Feet to Allow the Construction of a New
Commercial Building, Generally Located at 5943
University Avenue N.E. (Ward 1) .................................................. 26 - 36
4. Resolution Authorizing Execution of Agreement No. 80733
Between the City of Fridley and the Minnesota Department
of Transportation (University Avenue Ditch Project) ...................... 37 - 47
5. Appointment to City of Fridley Commission .................................. 48
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 25, 2000 PAGE 3
APPROVAL OF PROPOSED CONSENT AGENDA:
NEW BUSINESS (CONTINUED):
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6. Claims ....................................................................................... 49
7. Licenses ....................................................................................... 50 - 51
8. Estimates ...................................................................................... 52 - 64
ADOPTION OF AGENDA.
OPEN FORUM, VISITORS: Consideration of items not on Agenda — 15 minutes.
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PUBLIC HEARING:
�
9. To Evaluate the Cable System Franchise Proposal
Submitted by WideOpenWest Minnesota, LLC ...........................:...... 65 - 69
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 25, 2000 PAGE 4
NEW BUSINESS:
10. Resolution Regarding Advanced Corridor Plan for the
NCDA Northstar Commuter Rail Project ....................................... 70 - 74
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11. Resolution Amending the Transportation Chapter
of the Comprehensive Plan Regarding a Station
Area Plan for the NCDA Commuter Rail Station Site ................... 75 - 90
12. Informal Status Reports ................................................................ 91
ADJOURN.
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FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 25, 2000
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The City of Fridley will not discriminate against or harass anyone in the admission or access to, or treatment, or employment
in its services, programs, or activities because of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, disability, age, marital
status, sexual orientation or status with regazd to public assistance. Upon request, accommodation will be provided to allow
individuals with disabilities to participate in any of Fridley's services, programs, and activities. Hearing impaired persons
who need an interpreter or other persons with disabiliries who require auxiliary aids should contact Roberta Collins at 572-
3500 at least one week in advance. (TTD/572-3534) �
PR/OR TO THE C/TY COUNC/L MEET/NG, A VIDEOTAPE FROM THE LEAGUE OF M/NNESOTA ClT/ES
ENT/TLED "BUILD/NG QUALITY COMMUN/TIES" WILL BE SHOWN.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE.
PROCLAMATIONS:
Student Foreign Exchange Week:
September 25 - October 1, 2000
Alfiya Battalova — Russia
Andrew Beauchamp — New Zeatand
Carol Rodriquez Lora — Dominican Republic
Fire Prevention Week: October 8- 14, 2000
Domestic Violence Awareness Month: October, 2000
APPROVAL OF PROPOSED CONSENT AGENDA:
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
City Council Meeting of September 11, 2000
NEW BUSINESS:
APPROVAL OF PROPOSED CONSENT AGENDA:
NEW BUSINESS (CONTINUED):
3. Variance Request, VAR #00-21, by Earl Weikie
8� Sons, to Reduce the Required Parking
Setback from 20 Feet to 10 Feet, to Reduce
the 15 Foot Planting Strip to 10 Feet, and to
Reduce the Parking Stall Width from 10 Feet
�� �(y�.Sk to �9 Fee� to Allow the Construction of a New
�1�.���mmercial Building, Generally Located
b� tC� � At 5943 University Avenue N.E.
�-\� k o ���� (Ward 1) ...............��...vvQ;, 26 - 36
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4. Resolution Authorizing Execution of
Agreement No. 80733 Between the City of
Fridley and the Minnesota Department of
Transportation (University Avenue Ditch
Project) .................................... 37 - 47
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�'o ���' 5. Appointment to City of Fridley
� s � Commission .................................. 48
Receive the Minutes of the Planning
Commission Meeting of September 6,
2000 ................................... 1 - 19
6. Claims
. Resolution Approving a Subdivision, Lot Split,
LS #00-04, to Establish a Size Conforming
Commercial Lot, Generally Located at 5943
University Avenue N.E. (by Earl Weikle & Sons
and Van O Lite) (Ward 1) ............. 20 - 25 4 f�
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49
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FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 25, 2000 PAGE 2
APPROVAL OF PROPOSED CONSENT AGENDA:
NEW BUSINESS (CONTINUED):
7. Licenses .................................... 50 - 51
8. Estimates .................................... 52 - 64
ADOPTION OF AGENDA.
OPEN FORUM, VISITORS:
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NEW BUSINESS (CONTINUED):
12. Informal Status Reports ................ 91
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ADJOURN. ��! � C \ /�
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Consideration of items not on Agenda —15 minutes. n
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PUBLIC HEARIN�:
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9. Tc� Evaivaie the Cable System Franchise � W�-
Proposal Submitted by WideOpenWest �
Minnesota, LLC ................................... 65 - 69 �� �` i�
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NEW BUSINESS:
10. Resolution Regarding Advanced Corridor
Plan for the NCDA Northstar Commuter Rail
Project .................................... 70 - 74
���i2t.�.� o �-e-.� �� ��sc�-cSS � v � �-�-�-
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11. Resolution Amending the Transportation
Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan Regarding
a Station Area Plan for the NCDA Commuter
Rail Station Site .................................. 75 - 90
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St��e�t �"vrc��� �xcl�ar��e 1�1/eek
September 25 through October 1, 2000
WHEREAS, our community's greatest asset is our youth; and
WHEREAS, the American Field Service (AFS) organizes and administers a
program which brings students from around the world to our community; and,
WHEREAS, this interchange of culture and philosophy contributes to the
education and maturation of our youth in many and varied ways; and,
WHEREAS, it is the desire of the City of Fridley to show its appreciation and
support to our distinguished guests;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that I, Nancy J. Jorgenson, Mayor of
the City of Fridley, hereby proclaim the week of September 25 through October 1,
2000, as Student Foreign Exchange Week,
INHONOR OFALFIYA BATTALOVA
FROM R USSIA
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Alfiya Battalova be made an honorary
citizen of the City of Fridley, Minnesota, during her stay.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set
my hand and caused the seal of the City of
Fridley to be a�xed this 25th day of September,
2000.
NANCYJ. JORGENSON, MAYOR
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Sf��c�t �vre�g� �xcl�a��e 1�1/eek
September 25 through October 1, 2000
WHEREAS, our community's greatest asset is our youth; and
WHEREAS, the American Field Service (AFS) organizes and administers a
program which brings students from around the world to our community; and,
WHEREAS, this interchange of culture and philosophy contributes to the
education and maturation of our youth in many and varied ways; and,
WHEREAS, it is the desire of the City of Fridley to show its appreciation and
support to our distinguished guests;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that I, Nancy J. Jorgenson, Mayor of
the City of Fridley, hereby proclaim the week of September 25 through October 1,
2000, as Student Foreign Exchange Week, `
IN HONOR OF ANDREW BEA UCHAMP
FROMNEW ZEALAND
BE IT FURTHER RESOL VED, that Andrew Beauchamp be made an honorary
citizen of the City of Fridley, Minnesota, during his stay.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set
my hand and caused the seal of the Caty of
Fridley to be affixed this 25th day of September,
2000.
NANCYJ. JORGENSON, MAYOR
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S��c�f �v�c��� �xcl�a��e 1�1/�ek
September 25 through October 1, 2000
WHEREAS, our community's greatest asset is our youth; and
WHEREAS, the American Field Service (AFS) organizes and administers a
program which brings students.f-om around the world to our community; and,
WHEREAS, this interchange of culture and philosophy contributes to the
education and maturation of our youth in many and varied ways; and,
WHEREAS, it is the desire of the City of Fridley to show its appreciation and
support to our distinguished guests;
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that I, Nancy J. Jorgenson, Mayor of
the City of Fridley, hereby proclaim the week of September 25 through October 1,
2000, as Student Foreign Exchange Week,
INHONOR OF CAROL RODRIQUEZ.LORA
FROM THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Carol Rodriquez Lora be made an honorary
citizen of the Ciry of Fridley, Minnesota, during her stay.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set
my hand and caused the seal of the City of
Fridley to be a�xed this 25th day of September,
2000.
NANCYJ. JORGENSON, MAYOR
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FIR� PR�'V�NTION W��K
October 8-t4, 2000
WHEREAS, the week of October 8, 2000, has been proclaimed Fire Prevention
Week in our nation; and
WHEREAS, the City of Fridley commemorates this event each year by renewing
its fire education efforts in the community, particularly in our schools;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that I, Nancy J. Jorgenson, Mayor
of the City of Fridley, hereby proclaim the week of October 8 through 14, 2000,
as
FiRE PREVENTION WEEK
in the City of Fridley, and in commemoration thereof, the City shall devote its
resources to special educational programs for our residents to remind them of
the perils of accidental fires, methods for preventing these fires, and the
importance of early fire detection in our homes and businesses. These programs
will include:
• Annual Fire Prevention Week Open House on Saturday, October 7, 2000,
from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. During this time, all three of the City's fire
stations will be open for public visits.
� Station 1 at 6431 University Avenue N.E.
• Station 2 at 6381 Old Central Avenue N.E.
• Station 3 at 110 — 77th Way N.E.
• Special demonstrations at Fire Station 1 which will include a special rescue
and emergency medical scenario by the "Opportunities in Emergency Care"
national championship team.
• Visits by our firefighters to each of the elementary schools in Fridley with
the new "Safe Escape House" which trains second and third grade students
how to preuent and react to a home fire.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have
hereunto set my hand and caused the
seal of the City of Fridley to be affixed
this 25th day of September, 2000.
NANCY J. JORGENSON, MAYOR
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DOM£STIC VIOL£NC£
AWAR£N£SS MONT�
OCT08£R. ZO00
WHEREAS, the community problem of domestic violence has become a
critical public health and welfare concern in Anoka County; and
WHEREAS, domestic violence is a crime, the commission of which will not
be iolerated in Anoka County, and perpetrators of said crime are subject
to prosecution and conviction in accordance with the law; and
WHEREAS, .over 50, 000 victims of violence have and will continue to
access assistance from Alexandra House, a domestic violence service
provider for women and farn.ilies; and
WHEREAS, domestic violence will be eliminated ihrough community
partnerships of concerned individuals and organizations working together
to prevent abuse while at the same time effecting social and legal change;
and
LVHEREAS, October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month; and
WHEREAS, during National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Anoka
County organizations will inform area residents about domestic violence,
its prevalence, consequences, and what we, as a concerned community,
can do to eliminate its exisience.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that I, Nancy J. Jorgenson, Mayor
of the City of Fridley, do hereby proclaim the month of October, 2000, as:
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH
in Fridley, Minnesota.
IN WITNESS LYHEREOF, I have set
my hand and caused the seal of the
City of Fridley to be affixed this
25th day of September, 2000.
NANCY J. JORGENSON, MAYOR
THE MINUTES OF THE
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF
SEPTEMBER 11, 2000
THE MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL
OF SEPTEMBER 11, 2000
The Regular Meeting of the Fridley City Council was called to order by Mayor Jorgenson at
8:30 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
Mayor Jorgenson led the Council and audience in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
PROCLAMATIONS:
Undoin� Racism Dav — September 20, 2000
Mayor Jorgenson declared September 20 as Undoing Racism Day in the City of Fridley,
Minnesota. She urged all citizens to join together to reaffirm our commitment to ensure equality
and freedom for all people, regardless of race, religion, sexual preference or gender.
National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month - September, 2000
Mayor Jorgenson declazed the month of September, 2000, as National Prostate Cancer
Awareness Month in the City of Fridley, to increase awareness and use of early detection
practices by men to controlling prostate cancer.
National Breast Cancer Awareness Month - October, 2000
Mayor Jorgenson declared October, 2000, as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in the
City of Fridley, whereas early detection and prompt treatment significantly reduce suffering and
deaths caused by this disease.
National Mammo�raphv Day - October 20, 2000
Mayor Jorgenson declared October 20, 2000, as National Mammography Day in the City of
Fridley.
ROLL CALL:
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Jorgenson, 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
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 11, 2000 PAGE 2
conduct. Therefore, please receive the views of others 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.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
City Council Meetin og f Au�ust 28 2000
APPROVED.
OLD BUSINESS:
1. ORDINANCE NO. 1144 REPEALING CHAPTER 207 AND AMENDING
CHAPTER 402 OF THE FRIDLEY CITY CODE PERTAINING TO WATER
AND SEWER ADMINISTRATION:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that this amendment reflects recent changes in State
Rules and Met Council requirements for inspection and maintenance of septic systems.
In essence, the new rules require that all septic systems in Fridley must be inspected
before November l, 2000. After that, they must be inspected biennially. Staff
recommended Council's approval of these changes.
ADOPTED ORDINANCE NO. 1144.
NEW BUSINESS:
2. RESOLUTION NO. 66-2000 SCHEDULING AN ELECTION ON AMENDING
THE FRIDLEY CITY CHARTER, CHAPTER 7, TAXATION AND FINANCES•
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that since the City received a valid petition asking for
the amendment of Chapter 7 of the Fridley Charter, staff recommended that Council
schedule the vote on the proposed Charter change in conjunction with the General
Election on November 7, 2000. Staff recommended the ballot language.
Councilmember Billings stated that he would like this item removed for discussion.
REMOVED FROM CONSENT AGENDA AND PLACED AFTER OPEN FORUM
FOR DISCUSSION.
3. RESOLUTION NO. 67-2000 APPROVING A PLAT, P.S. #98-OS (NORTH
CENTRAL BUSINESS PARK ADDITION), BY CSM CORPORATION TO
REPLAT PROPERTY FOR THE PURPOSE OF CREATING LOTS TO ALLOW
INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT, GENERALLY LOCATED AT 490 NORTHCO
DRIVE (WARD 1):
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that the City has been asked to approve the final plat for
CSM Properties. This is a plat that was approved as a preliminary plat in January of last
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 11, 2000 PAGE 3
year. The plat will accommodate the construction of additional warehouse/office space at
the Northco Business Park on Northco Drive. Staff recommended Council's approval.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 67-2000.
4. RESOLUTION NO. 68-2000 CONSENTING TO THE HOUSING AND
REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY IN AND FOR THE CITY OF FRIDLEY,
MINNESOTA, ADOPTING A 2000 TAX LEVY COLLECTIBLE IN 2001:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that by this action Council would be confirming the levy
amount approved by the Fridley HRA for taxes payable in 2001. The levy amount is
.0144 percent of all taxable market value of all real property located in Fridley. The
HRA uses the proceeds to support its single-family rehabilitation loan program. Staff
recommended Council's approval.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 68-2000.
5. RESOLUTION NO. 69-2000 CALLING FOR A PUBLIC HEARING ON
MONDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2000, REGARDING THE CREATION OF TAX
INCREMENT DISTRICT NO. 17 FOR THE GATEWAY EAST
REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT (WARD 1):
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that staff requested that Council establish Monday,
October 23, as the public hearing date for establishing Tax Increment District #17,
anticipation of the Gateway East redevelopment project at the intersection of 57`� Avenue
and University Avenue. If this item is upproved this evening, the legislation c:eating the
new district would be heard on November 2, 2000. Staff recommend Council's approval.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 69-2000.
6. APPROVE CHANGE ORDER NO. 1 TO THE RICE CREEK BANK
STABILIZATION PROJECT NO. 333:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that the change order is for $8,702.70. The addition was
needed for additional "bank armoring" that property owners requested to be performed by
the City's contractor, W.B. Miller. Staff recommended Council's approval.
APPROVED CHANGE ORDER NO. 1 TO THE RICE CREEK BANK
STABILIZATION PROJECT NO. 333.
7. RECEIVE BIDS AND AWARD CONTRACT FOR A CLASS A PUMPER FIRE
TRUCK:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that after more than a year of specifiction writing, the
fire engine that was budgeted for the last year has been bid. Four bids were opened on
August 17. Staff recommended the low bidder, General Safety of Wyoming, Minnesota
at a cost of $293,994. The new engine will replace three existing engines. Staff
recommended Council's approval.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 11. 2000 PAGE 4
RECEIVED BIDS AND AWARDED CONTRACT FOR A CLASS A PUMPER
FIRE TRUCK.
8. RESOLUTION NO. 70-2000 DIRECTING THE PREPARATION OF THE
ASSESSMENT ROLL FOR THE 2000 NUISANCE ABATEMENT:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that these costs amount to $5,839.24 and will be spread
among eight benefiting property owners for debris removal. Staff recommended
Council's approval.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 70-2000.
9. RESOLUTION NO. 71-2000 DIRECTING PUBLICATION OF HEARING ON
THE PROPOSED ASSESSMENT ROLL FOR THE 2040 NUISANCE
ABATEMENT:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that in each of the next seven pairs of assessment items,
the first resolution authorizes preparation of the assessment roll. The second item directs
the public hearing notification. Staff recommended Council's approval.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 71-2000.
10. RESOLUTION NO. 72-2000 DIRECTING THE PREPARATION OF THE
ASSESSMENT ROLL FOR THE 2000 TREE ABATEMENT:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that the amount being assessed is $2,288.13. It will be
assessed to the benefiting property owner. The cost is for tree removal. Staff
recommended Council's approval.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 72-2000.
11. RESOLUTION NO. 73-2000 DIRECTING PUBLICATION OF HEARING ON
THE PROPSED ASSESSMENT ROLL FOR 2000 TREE ABATEMENT:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that this was consideration of a resolution directing the
publication of a hearing on the proposed assessment roll for the year 2000 tree abatement
costs. Staff recommended Council's approval.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 73-2000.
12. RESOLUTION NO. 74-2000 DIRECTING THE PREPARATION OF THE
ASSESSMENT ROLL FOR 2000 WEED ABATEMENT:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that the cost is $404.70. There are three property
owners being assessed. Staff recommended Council's approval.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 74-2000.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 11, 2000 PAGE 5
13. RESOLUTION NO. 75-2000 DIRECTING PUBLICATION OF HEARING ON
THE PROPOSED ASSESSMENT ROLL FOR 2000 WEED ABATEMENT:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that this was consideration of a resolution directing
publication of a hearing notice on the proposed assessment roll for the 2000 weed
abatement costs. Staff recommend Council's approval.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 75-2000.
14. RESOLUTION NO. 76-2000 DECLARING COST TO BE ASSESSED AND
PREPARATION OF PROPOSED ASSESSMENT FOR CENTRAL AVENUE
IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. ST. 1998 - 4:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that the cost being assessed is $129,856.91. This cost is
spread among nineteen benefiting property owners for concrete curb and gutter. Staff
recommended Council's approval.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 76-2000.
15. RESOLUTION NO. 77-2000 DIRECTING PUBLICATION OF THE HEARING
ON THE PROPOSED ASSESSMENT FOR CENTRAL AVENUE
IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. ST. 1998 - 4:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that this was consideration of a resolution directing
publication of the hearing notice on the proposed assessment for the Central Avenue
Improvement Project. Staff recommended Council's approvaL
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 77-2000.
16. RESOLUTION NO. 78-2000 DECLARING COST TO BE ASSESSED AND
ORDERING PREPARATION OF PROPOSED ASSESMENT FOR EAST RIVER
ROAD IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. ST. 1995 - 4:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that the cost being assessed against benefiting property
owners is $3,130. This is spread among three property owners for concrete curb and
gutter. Staff recommended Council's approval.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 78-2000.
17. RESOLUTION NO. 79-2000 DIRECTING PUBLICATION OF THE HEARING
ON THE PROPOSED ASSESSMENT FOR EAST RIVER ROAD
IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. ST. 1995 - 4:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that this was consideration of a resolution directing
publication of the hearing notice on the proposed assessment for the East River Road
Improvement Project. Staff recommended Council's approval.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 79-2000.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 11. 2000 PAGE 6
18. RESOLUTION NO. 80-2000 DECLARING COST TO BE ASSESSED AND
ORDERING PREPARATION OF PROPOSED ASSESSMENT FOR RICE
CREEK PHASE 2 BANK STABILIZATION PROJECT:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that the amount being assessed against benefiting
property owners is $17,800. The cost will be spread among fifteen property owners for
the Rice Creek bank stabilization project phases. Staff recommended Council's approval.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 80-2000.
19. RESOLUTION NO. 81-2000 DIRECTING PUBLICATION OF THE HEARING
ON THE PROPOSED ASSESSMENT FOR RICE CREEK PHASE 2 BANK
STABILIZATION PROJECT:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that this was consideration of a resolution directing
publication of the liearing notice on the proposed assessment for the Rice Creek Bank
Stabilization Project, Phase 2. Staff recommended Council's approval.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 81-2000.
20. RESOLUTION NO. 82-2000 DECLARING THE COST TO BE ASSESSED AND
ORDERING PREPARATION OF PROPOSED ASSESSMENT FOR STREET
IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. ST. 2000 - 1:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that the amount being assessed is $113,836.88. It will
be spread among forty beneftting property owners for concrete curb and gutter. Staff
recommended Council's approval.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 82-2000.
21. RESOLUTION NO. 83-2000 DIRECTING PUBLICATION OF THE HEARING
ON THE PROPOSED ASSESSMENT FOR STREET IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
NO. ST. 2000 -1:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that this was consideration of a resolution directing
publication of the hearing notice on the proposed assessment for the year 2000 street
improvement project. Staff recommended Council's approval.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 83-2000.
22. RESOLUTION NO. 84-2000 AUTHORIZING PAYMENT OF CERTAIN CLAIMS
WITHOUT PRIOR COUNCIL APPROVAL:
Mr. Burns, City Manager, stated that staff recommended that the amount of petty cash
reimbursement that may be made without prior Council authorization be raised from $15
to $25. Staff recommended Council's approval.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 84-2000.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 11, 2000 PAGE 7
0
23. CLAIMS:
APPROVED CLAIM NOS. 95150 THROUGH 95343.
24. LICENSES:
APPROVED ALL LICENSES AS SUBMITTED.
25. ESTIMATES:
APPROVED ESTIMATES AS FOLLOWS:
Frederic W. Knaak, Esp.
Holstad and Knaak, P.L.C.
3535 Vadnais Center Drive
St. Pual, MN 55110
Services Rendered as City Attorney
for the Month of August, 2000
W.B. Miller, Inc.
6701 Norris Lake Road N. W.
Elk River, MN 55330
Rice Creek Bank Stabilization, Phase II
Project No. 333
Estimate No. 1
W.B. Miller, Inc.
6701 Norris Lake Road N.W.
Elk River, MN 55330
2000 Street Improvement Project No. ST. 2000 - 1
Estimate No. 5
Park Construction Company
7900 Beech Street N.E.
Fridley, MN 55432
TH47 West Ditch Improvement
Project No. ST. 2000 - 6
Estimate No. 2
No persons in the audience spoke regarding the consent agenda items.
$ 5,000.00
$ 67,015.57
$ 90,577.51
$ 62,243.76
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 11, 2000 PAGE 8
APPROVAL OF PROPOSED CONSENT AGENDA:
MOTION by Councilmember Bolkcom to approve the proposed consent agenda with the
exception of Item No. 2 which is to be removed for discussion. Seconded by Councilmember
Barnette.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR JORGENSON DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA:
MOTION by Councilmember Bolkcom to adopt the agenda with the addition of Item No. 2 to be
placed after Open Forum. 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.
NEW BUSINESS:
2. RESOLUTION NO. 66-2000 SCHEDULING AN ELECTION ON AMENDING
THE FRIDLEY CITY CHARTER, CHAPTER 7, TAXATION AND FINANCES:
Councilmember Billings stated that the language presented by the petition can be amended by
the City Council or Charter Commission.
Mr. Knaak, City Attorney, stated that was correct.
Councilmember Billings stated that on last week's agenda, Council approved a public hearing for
the negotiation of a franchise fee with a company called WideOpenWest Minnesota. This
organization wants to present an alternative cable franchise in competition with Time
Warner/AOL. He asked if it was possible that the language that is presented this evening would
preclude Council from entering into an agreement with WideOpenWest because there are
franchise fees involved with cable operations and other fees involved with cable operations. He
asked if Council would need to negotiate a contract with them and wait until the year of 2002 to
see if the voters of the City of Fridley approved of that contract. He asked if Council did not
approve the contract, if they would have to wait unti12004 to negotiate a contract.
Mr. Knaak stated that an interpretation could be made that the proposed language could impact
subsequent franchise negotiations and ordinances. He said he was in the process of researching
the impact of the language on a variety of activities but had not reached a formal opinion.
However, he said it is possible it could have an impact in those areas mentioned by
Councilmember Billings.
Councilmember Billings stated that there is a fifteen-year contract with Time Warner/AOL and
that franchise is up for renewal. He asked if it was possible to negotiate a contract with them and
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 11, 2000 PAGE 9
submit that to the voters. If the voters voted that down, Council would have to wait two more
years to submit an additional cable franchise. Council could possibly be without cable television
in the City of Fridley for an extended period of time for the negotiations or until Council could
get something approved by the voters.
Mr. Knaak stated that the Time Warner/AOL franchise does not expire for another two or three
years. It could be renegotiated prior to that. There is some question that could be raised by an
interpretation of the language. He is doing research in this area and cannot advise yet.
Mr. Quentin Freeburg, 301 Rice Creek Tenace, stated that there was an item of wording
proposed for the ballots.
Ms. Lana Freeburg, 301 Rice Creek Terrace, stated that as members of the committee that
submitted this petition, she asked to have the wording included in that envelope.
Mayor Jorgenson stated tliat she believed the information on the agenda should be worded
identical to the petition. Mayor Jorgenson asked if there was a problem with the language
submitted.
Councilmember Billings stated that the language was drafted by Mr. Knaak. He asked if the
language has essentially the same language that is in the petition.
Mr. Knaak stated that it does. What is not there is a lot of the extra language of current existing
law. It is intended to represent plainly the proposed change.
Councilmem�ier Bolkcom asked if normally you would not have a long paragraph of what is
already in the Charter.
Mr. Knaak stated that this is the correct form. It is not proper to put the entire petition on the
ballot.
Mr. Freeburg asked if the Charter language would be posted at the polling places.
Mr. Knaak stated that it could be. The Council could direct that.
Councilmember Bolkcom asked if it would be only the language in the petition.
Mr. Knaak stated that was correct.
Mayor Jorgenson asked where it would be posted.
Mr. Knaak stated that it could be posted where public notices are usually posted. That is usually
at the entrance of polling places. The purpose of the language in the ballot is to succinctly
summarize what is there.
Councilmember Bolkcom stated that this is the language on the sample ballots.
Mr. Knaak stated that was correct.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL_MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 11, 2000 PAGE 10
Ms. Freeburg stated that it would be on absentee ballots. Having just gone through election
judge training, she understands that the ballot would be posted on the entryway.
MOTION by Councilmember Billings to adopt the resolution scheduling an election on
amending the Fridley City Charter, Chapter 7, Taxation and Finances. Seconded by
Councilmember Bolkcom.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAJOR JORGENSON DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
MOTION by Councilmember Billings to overwrite and strike out language presented with the
petition so voters can see what the language will be in the final draft of the Charter and to post
not less than two copies at each polling place. Seconded by Councilmember Barnette.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAJOR JORGENSON DECLARED THE
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Councilmember Billings stated that he is not going to ask the City Manager and City Clerk to
provide copies to Anoka County or anyone else that would be sending out absentee ballots. That
would create more questions than help for voters.
NEW BUSINESS:
26. INFORMAL STATUS REPORTS:
Mr. Burns stated that the City Newsletter contains information about City services and programs.
He would encourage residents to take a look at it.
Mayor Jorgenson stated that Councilmember Bolkcom will be the guest for the call-in session on
Tuesday night.
Councilmember Bolkcom stated that she and Ms. Dacy will be available for questions.
Mr. Burns stated that there is a list of polling places in the City newspaper.
Councilmember Billings stated that for those people living in Ward 1, Precinct 4, the polling
place has changed from the Senior High School to the Fridley Community Center. He asked if a
sign was posted at the Senior High School indicating that it is not the polling place.
Mr. Burns stated he would make sure there would be.
ADJOURN:
MOTION by Councilmember Barnette to adjourn the meeting. Seconded by Councilmember
Wolfe.
FRIDLEY CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 11, 2000 PAGE 11
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, MAYOR JORGENSON DECLARED THE
SEPTEMBER 11, 2000, CITY COUNCIL MEETING ADJOURNED AT 9:03 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Signe L. Johnson Nancy J. Jorgenson
Recording Secretary Mayor
CITY OF FRIDLEY
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING, SEPTEMBER 6, 2000
CALL TO ORDER:
Chairperson Savage called the September 6, 2000, Planning Commission meeting to order at 7:30
p.m.
ROLL CALL:
Members Present: Diane Savage, Barbara Johns, Dean Saba, Dave Kondrick, Leroy Oquist,
Larry Kuechle
Members Absent: None
Others Present: Barbara Dacy, Community Development Director
Scott Hickok, Planning Coordinator
Paul Boiin, Planner
Mark Koegler, Hoisington Koegler Group
Ken Stevens, Consultant for NCDA
APPROVE THE JULY 19 2000. PLANNING COMMI_SSION MEETING MINUTES:
MOTION by Mr. Kondrick to approve the July 19, 2000, Planning Commission meeting minutes as
presented. Seconded by Mr. Oquist.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, CHAIRPERSON SAVAGE DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. .
1. PUBLIC HEARING: •
Consideration of a Lot Split, LS 00-04, by Earle Weikle & Sons, to expand a lot area for a new
Van-O-Lite building, generally located at 5943 University Avenue.
MOTION by Mr. Saba, seconded by Mr. Kondrick, to open the public hearing. Seconded by Mr.
Kondrick.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, CHAIRPERSON SAVAGE DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED AND THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS OPENED AT 7:32 P.M.
Mr. Bolin stated that the petitioners are requesting a lot split to split lot 26 of Block 13 of the Hyde
Park addition in order to create a lot over 24,000 square feet. The total tracts to be purchased by
Van-O-Lite would be the north 20 feet of Block 26. That would be split and put together with lots 27,
28, 29, and 30 of the Block 13 of the Hyde Park Addition, along with that part of the west half of the
vacated alley directly east of the property.
Mr. Bolin stated that the property is located at the corner of 60�' Avenue and University Avenue
Service Drive. The property is zoned C-2, commercial, as are the properties immediately to the north
and to the south of this property. The Alano Society is directly south of this property. There are some
single family homes immediately to the east. Those properties are zoned R-2, single or two family
dwellings. Both the Alano lot and the proposed Van-O-Lite lot will meet all City code requirements for
lot size once the vacated alleyway is properly recorded with lots 25, 26, 29, and 30. The City vacated
this alleyway in 1962; however, the County recorded the vacated alleyway with the abstract
properties. It was not recorded with the Torrens property, which is how some of the lots are recorded.
r
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PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING, SEPTEMBER 6, 2000 PAGE 2
Mr. Bolin stated the site is relatively flat. The petitioner will need to continue the Alano property's
fence along the edge of his property. Staff recommends approval with stipulations. Bath lots will
meet the City Code's size requirements. Approval of this lot split will also make the Alano property
fully developed and require them to install their code required curbing and properly maintain their
catch basin. The northern edge of the Alano's parking lot does not have the code-required concrete
curb. That was allowed in the past because of plans for a parking lot expansion. They no longer
have room to expand and will be required to put the code required curbing in within a year.
Mr. Bolin stated that this request came before the Planning Commission last April. At that time, there
were some questions about a storm pond. The submittals at that time did not have a storm pond on
this site. A large number of variances were also requested. The petitioner withdrew the requests
before it went to Council. The builder worked with Van-O-Lite to reduce the size of the building and
eliminate a number of variances. The Appeals Commission recommended approval of the three
variances that were recently requested. The Appeals Commission broke new ground in
recommending approval of 9-foot wide parking statls along the east property line with the idea that
those will be marked and used for employees onty. The setback of parking from the sidewalk should
be 15 feet, but with this submiZtal it is approximately 12 feet.
Mr. Kondrick asked if the neighbors had any feedback.
Mr. Bolin stated that one letter received prior to the variance request stated opposition to any
development, and another neighbor had questions and concerns over the Alano property. The
neighbor wanted to make sure that Alano would put in the required concrete curb and be required to
maintain their storm water catch basin.
The petitioner, Willard Weikle, stated that they have assisted Van-O-Lite with the design and
construction. They do not have any problems with the stipulations. The design of the storm water
holding ponds will create an improvement with the drainage.
Paul Klein, 5974 4'h Street, stated that he wanted to thank staff for being so helpful with his calls and
concerns. The Alano Society's privacy fence is in disrepair, and he hopes they can maintain that
particular fence. The flat type catch basin in the parking lot right now is constantly flooded in the
corner of the lot. It is right behind his garage and he is glad that is being addressed. His question is if
there could be something put on to make sure the catch basin and curbing is done in a timely manner.
Mr. Bolin stated that there is a bond requirement on Van-O-Lite's prope�ty at 3% of the project cost to
ensure that these improvements happen.
Mr. Oquist asked Mr. Bolin if staff was working with the Alano people to make sure that their part is
cleaned up.
Mr. Bolin stated they are waiting for final approval of the lot split. Staff will notify the Alano Society
that due to the lot split, their parking lot expansion is now considered complete and they must comply
with curbing requirements and work with Engineering staff to keep the basin clean as well.
MOTION by Mr. Kondrick, seconded by Mr. Saba, to close the public hearing.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, CHAIRPERSON SAVAGE DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED AND THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED AT 7:47 P.M.
Mr. Oquist stated that all the issues have been well addressed.
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PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING, SEPTEMBER 6, 2000 PAGE 3
Mr. Kondrick agreed.
Mr. Oquist stated that it looks like it will be a nice building with all brick on four sides.
Mr. Kuechle concurred.
MOTION by Mr. Saba, seconded by Mr. Oquist, to approve LS #00-10 with the following stipulations:
1. The petitioner is responsible for any actions required to transfer fee title to the vacated alley. This
action must be completed prior to issuance of any building permits due to the fact that the lot is
substandard in size without inclusion of the vacated alleyway.
2. The petitioner shall obtain all necessary permits prior to construction.
3. A landscape plan meeting all code requirements for number of, size of, and types of trees shall be
submitted prior to issuance of any building permits. All boulevard and landscaped areas shall be
properly irrigated and sprinkled as required by City Code.
4. All boulevard and landscaped areas shall be properly irrigated and sprinkled as required by City
Code.
5. The peti�ioner shall provide code required number of parking stalls.
6. The storm pond must meet approval of city engineering staff.
7. The petitioner shall install code required screening fence along east property line to properly
screen this property from neighboring residential property.
8. No outdoor storage or displays shall be permitted on this site.
9. Any lighting on the outside of building shall be downcast and shielded to minimize impact on
neighboring residential area. Said lighting must not measure more than 3 candle foot power at the
prope�ty line.
10. The parking area shall be screened from the right-of-way by a combination of berms and
continuous plantings of at least 3 feet in height.
11. The parking lot shall be striped for one way traffic.
12. The building shall incorporate face brick, natural stone or other masonry produce approved by City
staff. Masonry product shall be used on all four sides of building to give the building architectural
balance and a finished appearance.
Mr. Bolin stated this request will go to City Council on September 25.
2. PUBLIC HEARING:
Consideration of an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan regarding a station Area plan
around the proposed Northstar Corridor Development Authority Station and Park and Ride Site
at 615t Avenue and 615` Way adjacent to the railroad tracks,
MOTION by Mr. Kondrick, seconded by Mr. Oquist, to open the public hearing.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, CHAIRPERSON SAVAGE DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED AND THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS OPENED AT 7:50 P.M.
Ms. Dacy stated that the City initiated this comprehensive plan amendment process as a vehicle to
discuss varieties of aspects of commuter rail issues and discuss the proposed station site at 615'
Avenue and 615' Way. Staff is suggesting that the Planning Commission consider a station area plan
or general language of the types of goals and principles to be included in our comprehensive plan
about this type of use. The commuter rail project is an 80 mile commuter rail system from ST. Cloud
to downtown Minneapolis. There are about twelve stations located along that route and a number of
communities. The commuter rail would operate on the existing BNSF railroad tracks. The NCDA is a
joint powers group of the number of jurisdictions, townships, rail authorities, representatives from
MnDOT and the bus system. NCDA looks at general transportation issues and is evaluating a
3
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING, SEPTEMBER 6, 2000 PAGE 4
number of alternatives to find the right mix to handle the growing amount of development in no�them
Anoka County and Sherburne County.
Ms. Dacy stated that the difference between commuter rail and light rail is that commuter rail is
oriented to the peak hour commuters. Light rail runs more continuously throughout the day. The
Hiawatha Light Rail line has more stops on it. The station spacing in the commuter rail is five miles
apart whereas the station spacing for light rail is a lot shorter. Commuter rail gets its power and
direction from diesel engines. Light rail receives its power from an overhead electrical source.
Looking at Anoka County and Fridley as the spout of a funnel is a good analogy to desc�ibe the traffic
issues. There is a lot of through traffic on Highway 65, University Avenue, and East River road.
Commuter rail provides an alternative mode of transportation. Some projections from the
comprehensive plan work shows that traffic is predicted to increase on those major roadways, as high
as 27% in the next 15-20 years. This will help diminish the need for additional lanes on Universiry
Avenue. An underpass is proposed with this station site and the nature of the transit service would
provide the option for people to choose to walk to the station site or bike.
Ms. Dacy stated that the benefits for the commuter rail are an improved access and another mode of
transportation. There are 23,Q00 people that work in Fridley. This could lead to less people using
their cars and less carbon monoxide in the air and an increase in environmental benefits. Improved
mobility saving time here and potentially around the region. Commuter rail is proposed to connect to
the Hiawatha light rail system and utfimately to the airport. The communities that have commuter rail
may have a competitive advantage because it provides another service over a community that does
not have rail. People who live and work in Fridley will be provided an opportunity to get to other
destination points along the route and, conversely, it may provide access for people to also get to a
major point in Fridley such as the Springbrook Nature Center. Businesses may experience additional
customers or the visibility of improved access. The station site in Fridley is on the edge and in the
middle of a residential area. The commercial area is about 1/2 mile away. If we do not have
commuter rail, there will not be an opportunity to become part of what could become a larger
transportation system. MnDOT is evaluating additional future commuter rail routes. Bus service is
getting redesigned and commuter rail will enable Fridley to be a part of this system.
Ms. Dacy stated that a station is being proposed in Fridley because of the potential of ridership.
Fridley has the highest employment base in Anoka County. There are a number of large employers
that are well known. There is good proximity all along the route to bus routes and to I-694. The
spacing seems to work at about 4.5 miles south of the Coon Rapids station and 6 miles north of the
downtown site in Minneapolis. They are trying to find out how the site will function. Will people travel
to the site directly on Mississippi Street down to East River Road? Does the railroad provide a barrier
such that 615` Avenue is the most direct route? How many people can they pull from New Brighton?
Will anybody from Columbia Heights or south of I-694 drive north to go south? The reverse commute
is also very hard to predict.
Ms. Dacy stated that the amount of housing parcels within 1/2 mile is shy of 1,000 including apartment
parcels. There are about 68 parcels of commercial/industrial parcels within 1/2 mile. Within 3/4 of a
mile, there are a lot of the industries south on Main Street. About one mile away is the Medtronic
Campus. The City has a good system of sidewalks and bikeway/walkways. Sixty-first Avenue has a
sidewalk on the north and south sides. A sidewalk was just built on the south side of 57th Avenue.
There is a fairly extensive bikeway/walkway system along East River Road west of the railroad tracks.
This is a potential draw area because of the bus system and bikeway/walkways and provides good
access for a potential station site. There are a number of express routes as well as the regular route
system. A projection of bussing is that there could be 9 buses per day on the west side and up to 36
on the east side. It all depends on the nature of the riders and where they are headed. The United
Defense's vacant land site was not chosen because the extent of trackage is at 20-40 sets of tracks,
and it is very close to the operation facility. They would not accept a site that close to the facility.
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PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING, SEPTEMBER 6, 2000 PAGE 5
Ms. Dacy stated staff is suggesting that the City identify some general principies and goals to help
decide future decisions. Neighborhood compatibility is important. The station area has to be
compatible with the neighborhood in terms of intensity and design. The City will have to undertake an
analysis of good types of land uses to Iocate on the remaining vacant pieces. The City should
advocate a station environment that is safe and attractive, and access patterns should be created to
direct traffic directly to the site as opposed to cutting through the neighborhood. The City must be
clear on the bikeway/walkway connections. The station area plan language is a process to establish
basic goals to help the city in the future. The existing zoning on the east side of the site is industrial
and may not be the appropriate zoning if the park and ride lot goes in. The City should work with
NCDA or impose restrictions to make sure that it is a safe and attractive facility consistent with typical
guidelines for parking lots. The City needs to look at clear pedestrian and bikeway connections. The
City should consider amending a zoning ordinance to establish a transit oriented design type of an
overlay zoning district to control the development on the vacant land that remains in and around the
park and ride site.
Mark Koegler, Hoisington/Koegler Group, stated that they are working with IBI Group. They have
been retained by NCDA to look at overall land use along all of the station sites. Additionally, they
work with communities to facilitate public input, staff, and commission/council concerns and bring
those through the process. Commuter rail will be different than light rail. Commuter rail stations are
much more in common architecturally up and down the corridor than what you would find with light
rail. It entails a platform that straddles both sides of the tracks. On each side, there will protected
waiting areas for passengers. They will have climate control. There will be electronic ticketing
available there so people can purchase tickets for their appropriate destination. There will be means
to move from one side of the track to the other. Movement back and forth will be accommodated with
above ground or below ground movements. Fridley's case is proposed to be below g�ound with a
walkway or tunnel passing underneath the tracks with a ramp or elevator. Every effort is made with
fencing to keep people away from the tracks because this is an active railroad line used by freight
trains numbering as many as 70 per day sometimes.
Mr. Koegler stated that the advanced corridor plan is somewhat of a misnomer. It probably would
have been better labeled as a preliminary corridor plan but the statute set the language. They now
have 10% of design completion. This is a first look at the layout of the station activities, parking, and
everything else associated with the commuter rail stop. On the east side there is a park and ride site
identified for about 441 - 445 vehicles. There is bus access and a drop-off site, sometimes termed
"kiss and ride". This would serve activities and people coming in from the east side. TherQ will be a
retention basin of under 1/2 acre in size to handle storm water runoff. On the extreme east edge
abutting Main Street and 61 St, the possibility of a developed parcel existing when a park and ride site
goes in, would be somewhere of roughly 2 1/2 acres remaining. The principal access off the west
side would be at the signalized intersection at 61 S` Way and East River Road. There is a park and
ride lot there with about 260 spaces with a drop-off area for buses. There is storm water drainage
accommodation and the potential of a smaller development parcel that may be residential or another
use to be determined.
Mr. Koegler stated that the Advanced Corridor Plan comes from State statute. State statute describes
the process being adhered to that has ce�tain deadlines and dates associated with that. In early
August, Fridley received copies of this plan and documentation associated with that. The intent is for
communities to take a look at the content, design elements, orientation, and provide comments and
feedback that will go back to the NCDA by October 23: Fridley has been more proactive than most of
the communities in getting information out to the public and having public meetings. An informational
meeting was held on August 22 at the Community Center. About 75-80 people attended. A number
of issues came up including traffic issues. The EIS does address the intersections at East River Road
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PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING, SEPTEMBER 6, 2000 PAGE 6
and 615` Way, 61 S` Avenue and University. It does not go into any other traffic detail. That is yet to be
developed.
Mr. Koegler stated the size of the east parking lot became an issue because it is closer to residential.
The question was what is the balance between east and west and should they look at shifting that
somewhat and taking emphasis off the east side?
Mr. Koegler stated there were questions about noise from horns and whistles. This is one of those
things in all likelihood that cannot be mitigated due to safety co�cerns.
Mr. Koegler stated there is some data regarding crime impact. they have data from the City of Coon
Rapids on the Foley Avenue parking ride and they have few problems. The NCDA from the beginning
has taken a serious look at ridership projections. They are retaining a firm by the name of Wilbur
Smith to put together projections. That is a firm that does this on a national basis for similar systems
throughout the country. Those projections were reviewed by another firm, KPMG, who concurred.
This is used by the Metropolitan Council. The model for example does not do a good job of projecting
the reverse commute.
Mr. Koegler stated that the comments from the August 2 meeting will be examined and addressed in
three different venues. There will be a process this fall to look at the Environmental Impact
Statement. There will be public review of that and hearings for comments. That will address traffic,
land use, noise, vibration, and any number of things associated with this. There will be a preliminary
engineering phase, which represents about a 30% design level. This will come about in the early part
of next year. Detailed questions regarding tra�c movements, pedestrian movements, and safety
issues begin to be looked at in more detail during preliminary engineering.
Mr. Koegler stated the NCDA will be gathering information from all communities by October 23. They
will supply feedback back to the cities based on comments received identifying those items that
certainly may work and they can look at further. If there are items that do not work for a technical
reason they will be able to supply that answer back to the community saying that because of safety
concerns, we cannot make that happen. Response will be within roughly 45 - 60 days after the
October 23 deadline. Fridley will make recommendations this evening for items coming out of the
public input and Staff review as needing additional investigation as part of that preliminary engineering
process as well as any revisions to occur to the Advanced Corridor Plan.
Mr. Koegler stated that the City is advocating that the NCDA take a look at investigating ways of -
mitigating traffic impacts including reduction of the east side parking lot and an increase in the west
side parking lot closer to East River Road and industrial properties. Separating the parking lot from
615` Avenue is also being suggested. Different access locations are being suggested such as
accessing off Main Street rather than 615t to take away that direct connection to the neighborhood.
Signage restricting turning movements and median constructions are possible as are traffic calming
techniques requiring and/or encouraging people as they came to the site and left the site to use major
roadways instead of Starlite and Trinity. Shared driveway access could be looked at if this land use
change could be configured to share an access point between the park and ride and this developable
parcel lying as a buffer between the neighborhood area and the park and ride site itself.
Mr. Koegler stated there is a sliver of land behind Parson's Electrical building that would be suitable
for ponding. Alternative locations for ponds are being evaluated. Underground storm water treatment
facilities may occur on the east or west side of this site. The property is presently zoned
manufacturing and the parking lot would adhere to the same standards that zoning would require.
The design would adhere to City standards regarding setback, landscaping, and lighting. The
acquisition and creation of parcels for this will require a platting process and these areas would need
to be platted as part of an overall review which would put this before the City for plat action.
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PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING, SEPTEMBER 6, 2000 PAGE 7
Mr. Koegler stated that the City is looking at ways in which Ashton may be preserved as a connection
to make its way south to 615t Way and to the signalized intersection with East River Road. That could
be done as a street or possibly a drive aisle through the parking lot. One of the key concerns is the
aspect of security. Fridley has talked about the interest in securing the security building for the entire
rail corridor to be located at this station site possibly on the east side. That would be a landscaped
building that would have the monitors and security personnel inside would be reviewing what is going
on up and down the station area. That would add a presence of security to the overall area. The
pedestrian underpass is essential and the City is looking at ways to see how movement could be
accommodated during hours that the commuter rail is not running. It will run morning and p.m. peaks.
It will run some weekends for various kinds of events. There is a ramp type of approach to get to a
pedestrian underpass or it may be a structure with elevator towers that would take you down and
allow you to move through and come back up on the other side. The pedestrian connections along
61 S` and 57`h are being considered, but there is nothing along Main Street right now. Neighborhood
traffic is anticipated to walk to the site.
Ms. Dacy stated that staffs recommends that the Planning Commission recommend approval to the
City Council of the proposed station area plan language, establish the principles of neighborhood
compatibility, evaluate the land uses, create a safe and attractive environment, and establish the port
of access patterns that direct traffic and pedestrian activity directly to the site. Staff suggests that the
Commission recommend Mr. Koegler's about the Advanced Corridor Plan applying specifically to the
park and ride facility, design, and location. The Planning Commission could recommend to the Ciry
Council that staff initiate the process to work on a zoning district to apply to this property because of
the unique type of land use.
Ms. Dacy stated the Commission's recommendation will be on the agenda for Council review on
September 25. NCDA will be conducting EIS statement hearings this fall. NCDA will communicate a
response to the comments in the next few months. NCDA will undertake a preliminary engineering
process to prepare funding application to the Federal Transit Administration. Then it would go to the
final engineering stage prior to construction and opening the system proposed on the first part of the
year in 2004.
Mr. Kondrick asked if the NCDA envisions residents of Fridley, Columbia Heights, and people close to
downtown, wanting to ride this system north in the morning. Are there job opportunities happening ta
the north of us and how would we address that?
Ms. Dacy stated that the projections are based on the primary commuting trip from north to south and
it is very difficult to predict the other direction. This commuter rail system is based and driven on the
downtown commute. They do know that once the service presents itself, people do start thinking of
alternative ways to get to point A to point B which may include going south to north.
Ms. Savage stated that she works in Anoka and drives from Fridley to Anoka every morning. There is
a fair amount of traffic on Highway 10 going to Anoka.
Mr. Kondrick stated Anoka, Elk River and Big Lake have huge industrial parks opening up which
mean more jobs, relocation, and commuting to that area.
Mr. Saba asked what kind of maintenance is being proposed for the station in 5, 10, 15, or 20 years
from now. Will it degrade and be an eyesore, or are there improvement budgets or plans in place?
Ms. Dacy stated it will be maintained by MnDOT or the Northstar staff itself. The City will hold it equal
to any other property in the City and inspect coding issues.
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PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING, SEPTEMBER 6, 2000 PAGE 8
Mr. Saba stafed that it a little scary because some of the amenities along the highway look pretty bad,
and the City really does not have any control over maintaining those amenities.
Ms. Dacy stated that could be a comment on the list for the City Council to fonivard to the NCDA as
part of the corridor plan review.
Ms. Savage asked if there would be a landscaping plan.
Ms. Dacy stated that staff expects that the station design will meet the same type of standards
required for commercial/industrial properties, including a certain amount of trees, a three foot hedge
between the public right of way and the parking area, and landscaping interior to the parking lot.
Ms. Dacy stated Randy and Sue Benedict faxed a letter to the Planning Commission.
Mr. Kuechle asked what assurance they have that those parcels will be available when the funds
become available to purchase them.
Ms. Dacy stated that acquisition from the NCDA cannot occur until the EIS review is done and
completed. At this point both sides of the railroad tracks are zoned for development and the City is
receiving more inquiries on the west side parcel than on the east side. There has been no action to
address this issue at this point.
Mr. Oquist asked if BNSF would not allow the site to be located south of I-694.
Ms. Dacy stated that is correct.
Mr. Kuechle stated that was an issue of having more tracks on that site.
Ms. Dacy stated that if you travel on the bridge over the railroad tracks on 44`h you can see the United
Defense facility to the north. The amount of trackage is 20 - 40 sets and 1,000 feet wide. The BNSF
operations facility is very close to the south to control the trains. The railroad felt that was too close to
the activity.
Mr. Oquist asked if to the south of I-694 to the north of United Defense was a possibility.
. Ms. Dacy stated that is in the Great Northern Industrial park. There was a vacant parcel but now
Baroli Trucking constructed a site there. The longer industrial buildings are located north of the
United Defense office building.
Ken Stevens, consultant for NCDA, stated that staff has done a good job in summarizing a complex
issue. The maintenance issues are difficult because of trusting MnDOT to do a good job. Looking at
commuter and light rail in other cities, there tends to be a very high level of community and regional
pride in the transportation systems to the extent that the transportation professionals worry about
putting too much effort in the rail system at the expense of some other transportation elements. There
is a long history of that pride asserting itself throughout the community to the extent of riders policing
themselves, concern for litter and noise and disruption on the train. This commuter rail system should
be no different than it is in the west coast area. They are clean and well maintained. MnDOT is
statutorily charged with designing, constructing, and operating the system. They do expect them to
contract the physical operation of maintenance of the trackway. It will still be BNSF. The
maintenance of the stations will be MnDOT which could be delegated to some other operating entity
yet to be named.
Ms. Savage asked for more information about the security building suggested at the station.
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PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING, SEPTEMBER 6, 2000 PAGE 9
Mr. Stevens stated that there has been a request and recommendation by the City that that wili take
place. As we begin preliminary engineering on stations and maintenance facilities, one of the
activities will be to site these buildings. The maintenance facility with passenger coaches, fueling,
light duty repair, will take place near the Elk River station. The security building may be placed there.
The other alternative is to make a stand along facility at the Fridley site.
Mr. Kondrick asked what types of security will be used.
Mr. Stevens stated that there will be video monitoring, radio communication with all trains, the
dispatching will occur from a major BNSF faciliry in Forth Worth, Texas. A dispatcher sees every train
movement through this territory and can actually make switching occur from the Fort Worth
communications.
MOTION by Mr. Kondrick, seconded by Mr. Saba, to receive into the record the letter received from
Randy and Sue Benedict.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, CHAIRPERSON SAVAGE DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Chris P., 39 62nd Way, stated that one of his problems is pollution which has been discussed. The
traffic is a concern also. Is the traffic going to be at University and Ashton?
Ms. Dacy stated that probably the primary access points to both sides of the tracks on the west side is
down the River Road to 615t Way at the stop light and into the parking lot there. Under this scenario,
they are proposing to disconnect Ashton. Now it runs parallel to the railroad tracks. This scenario
would tie it back into 62"d Way and on the east side access would come from University Avenue west
on 61 S` Avenue.
Mr. P. stated that it would be like a cul-de-sac in the Ashton neighborhood.
Ms. Dacy stated that it would blend into 62"d and would curve into 62"d. Staff is suggesting that the
Ashton Avenue exit should be maintained at 61 S` because of the medians on East River Road which
block full movement access. That gives a way out for the neighborhood.
Mr. P. asked how many people are estimated to go through the station on a given day.
Ms. Dacy stated that there is a projection of about 700 parking spaces. One person per vehicle could
make it 600 - 700. Another 200 would arrive by bus or walking to the site for both sides of the tracks.
A rough estimate is 1,000 people.
Mr. P. asked about all the air pollution caused by all the cars.
Ms. Dacy stated that this issue will probably be addressed in the EIS. That information has not been
distributed yet. There will be more hearings on this in the fall.
Ms. Savage asked where they would be held.
Ms. Dacy stated she is not sure, but notices will be mailed.
Mr. P. asked if there was a figure on the crime rate with stations of this kind in a neighborhood.
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PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING, SEPTEMBER 6, 2000 PAGE 10
Ken Stevens stated that they are in the process of gathering additional data that they hope they can
bring forth when this goes to Council.
Mr. P. stated that the problem of crime is occurring in the smaller areas relating to station sites.
Mr. Kondrick asked if he was concerned about the crime increases in his neighborhood or just the
parking lot at the facility.
Mr. P. stated that he meant the City overall. There will be easier access so of course there will be
more crime. How did the zoning in the neighborhood change to a full industrial zoning without a vote
from neighbors?
Ms. Dacy stated that it is zoned R-1, single family. The Tri-Star Insulation facility is industrial on the
east side of the railroad tracks.
Mr. P. asked how you could pave for a parking lot in an R-1 zoning.
Ms. Dacy stated part of the recommendation for the City is to initiate a zoning district and the set of
controls that would provide the design guidelines to control and regulate the park and ride sites as
well as the land uses around that area. It may be called some other type of zoning, but that would be
part of another public hearing process.
Mr. P. asked if this was run off electricity like trolley cars.
Ms. Dacy stated that commuter rail has a diesel engine and the light rail is powered by an electric
source.
Mr. P. asked about any interruptions in cordless phones, radios or TV, computers, and fax machines.
Ms. Dacy stated that she is not aware of any information about that. It may be addressed by tFe EIS.
Mr. P. asked if any houses would be taken in preparation for the site.
Ms. Dacy stated that no houses are being proposed to be taken by the NCDA, just vacant land
Mr. P. stated that when he looks out his door he will see 500 cars in the parking lot.
Myron Sjostrom, 6240 Starlite Boulevard, stated that there had been clearcutting on his boulevard,
eliminating the nice buffer zone. His concern is the blowing of the whistles. Freight trains are going
to blow their whistles too all day long. He thinks that the whistles will be going on all day and night.
Traffic is a concern coming through the neighborhood. One problem now that the trees are gone is
that kids are back there harvesting marijuana. Another problem is that the neighborhood sure did not
get any help from the City when the trees were cut down.
John ivers, 6271 Trinity Drive, stated that is very close to the proposed station. The location is not in
a heavily industrialized area which would be the logical place since it is serving the industrial area.
One of the initial uses of this is another park and ride facility for people to take the buses. It seems
there would competition of the buses even though this is already well served by the park and ride site.
Some shuttle bus system may help with the people who only have to travel 2 blocks from the site to
work. The bus traffic and car traffic are underestimated. The Iocation of the major parking area on
the east side of the track is right in the heart of the residential area. Multi-level parking would
accommodate the majority of the traffic on the west side. There are some real unanswered questions,
and it is premature to approve a comprehensive plan without some very serious stipulations. There
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PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING, SEPTEMBER 6, 2000 PAGE 11
should be some coordination with MTC to encourage routes to the downtown area and find out what
their plan is to se►ve places like Medtronic and the areas north of Osborne and south of I-694.
MOTION by Mr. Kuechle, seconded by Mr. Kondrick, to receive the written comments of John ivers.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, CHAIRPERSON SAVAGE DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Ms. Johns asked if there was any thought to having multi-level parking.
Ms. Dacy stated, yes, but it is very expensive and it is in a hard place being at only 10% of design and
engineering. If the transportation analysis is only projecting what you see here as the maximum for
the next ten to twenry years and can be accommodated most cost efficiently by surface parking, then
that would be believed to be the best one.
Mr. Oquist stated that he fully understands the concerns about the traffic on the east side, but if you
figure that the majority of the people who live on the east side of East River Road would find it difficult
to get to the west side, then you only have I-694 or Mississippi.
Ms. Johns stated that is a concern because that same stop light would be shared and be used to
enter off East River Road.
Ms. Dacy stated that the Stevenson Elementary site is to the west and controlled already by a traffic
light.
Mr. Oquist stated that getting to the west side from the east side is still difficult.
Mary Jo Smith, 62"d Way, stated that if the parking lot is located on the south side of the Tri-Star
building it would not interrupt a residential area.
Ms. Dacy stated that it could potentially be a comment to the NCDA. We have suggested that and
they may have a Phase II plan to extend that building.
Ms. Smith stated that another concern is that the school is there across from 615t. You are diverting
all the traffic to East River Road where the children get out of school. Many are walkers and that
poses a major problem. Closing off the stop sign to Ashton is another problem. It is a quiet little
community and she really wants it to stay that way.
Leonard Passon, 6211 Rainbow Drive 6211 Rainbow Drive, stated that the City Council should adopt
a"No Whistle Ordinance" in Fridley. His quiet neighborhood will be so noisy they will not be able to
stand it. Minneapolis and St. Paul have "No Whistle Ordinances". There is no reason Fridley cannot
adopt this ordinance.
Ms. Savage stated that she thought they could not have a"No Whistle Ordinance".
Mr. Stevens stated that this was addressed at the last open meeting. The City of Minneapolis does
have such an ordinance in some locations. There is federal legislation pending that would eliminate
the ability of any community to pass a no whistle ordinance. It is not current law, but is very difficult to
do. Safety is a paramount concern. They tend to believe that freight trains need to blow their whistle
every time they pass the station regardless of the commuter rail operation. They will get clarified
information on just what regulations are. It will be additional noise if a commuter rail is coming into the
station and/or if a freight train is passing commuter rail at the station.
1��
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING, SEPTEMBER 6, 2000 PAGE 12
Doris Knutson, 6300 Starlite Boulevard, stated that there are many trains going north and south and
sometimes at the same time. If they are all going to whistle when they come to that station it will be
totally unbearable for us. It is bad enough as it is now since they lost the tree buffer. They worked
very hard finro years back to get them to stop whistling at a signal post. Traffic will also increase.
What will this do to the value of their property?
Ms. Dacy stated they have information that property values around the station sites in Boston and
Philadelphia have increased.
Mr. Koegler stated that data is difficult to find. Community-wide, not adjacent to, property values have
increased roughly 6.4 %. This increase was attributed to the fact that those communities had rail
facilities available versus the cities that did not. In cases where a neighborhood already abuts a major
freight line, studies in other areas have not been able to discern a value difference. There are not
many cases where brand new commuter rail lines have gone in.
Mr. Kondrick asked Ms. Knutson how far away from the station she lives.
Ms. Knutson stated that she lives about two blocks away.
Dennis Johnson, 6336 Starlite Boulevard, asked how the railroad handles the stations where the
commuter rail is on a larger scale. Why cannot the station be located on the United Defense land that
is for sale?
Mr. Koegler stated that in Chicago they have 8 or 10 commuter rail lines and the commuter stations
are in communities just like this one all throughout the system. The BNSF is a privately owned
railroad and they can and do dictate some terms upon which they negotiate adding commuter rail
service. The BNSF Northtown is off limits for a station. It is because of the amount of activity that
goes on in the yards and they simply will not allow it to happen.
Mr. Johnson stated that the railroad is going to get something out of this.
Mr. Koegler stated that the railroad's freight service will not get any worse. If you add 18 trains a day
and you expect their service to continue as it is you have to make improvements. Railroad signaling
will be improved and there will be additional flexibility by adding crossovers so trains can move from
one track to the other to avoid other trains coming or going. Those will be paid by public expense.
They have computer modeled and simulated the railroad's current activities and projected future
activities and have overlaid the commuter rail service activities on that to simulate the location and
travel of each and every train over the track. That led us to conclude that those improvements are
necessary for the railroad to maintain their service.
Mr. Johnson asked if the freight train's speed will be faster to make way for the commuter schedule.
Mr. Koegler stated that they will be having speed improvements necessary to provide the commuter
rail service.
Mr. Johnson asked where the buses would be stored.
Ms. Dacy stated that this could be clarified to the Metro Transit folks. It is our understanding that the
existing buses on University and East River Road would be the buses that would leave the train at the
peak times in the morning and in the afternoon. It has not been suggested that the buses would be
stored there overnight.
12
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING, SEPTEMBER 6, 2000 PAGE 13
Mr. Johnson stated that he wished that the City would send out information to everybody in the area
about this whistle point situation. A major issue is going to be the noise, especially since this
neighborhood lost its natural buffer from the tracks. Why is 615t chosen over any other point?
Ms. Dacy stated that because this has a smaller amount of trackage and is north of that major
operation system, BNSF was agreeable to a station at this point. Ken Stevens stated that there was a
series of criteria to evaluate a number of characteristics about each site. This has easy bus access
and is accessible to a lot of trail connections. The NCDA will provide feedback as to how to address
the "not so good" impacts.
Joanne Toews, 6151 Trinity, stated that she is favor of the commuter rail, but there are several
concerns as they are 1/2 block from the station. One concern is zoning overlay.
Ms. Dacy stated that there are a number of zoning districts. There are three or four districts for
industrial uses, three or four for residential. An overlay district right now on the books is that there is
an overlay district on the properties that abut the river: They are drawn from the DNR types of
regulations about setbacks from the river. An overlay district is another set of regulations that would
apply to the land that it sits on.•in addition to the existing regulations that the zoning now pertains to
the property. The nature of the park and ride site and because of what we do not know, is to look at
the language in the zoning code that says where and how the buildings should be, how many trees
and so on. This guides development in this area.
Ms. Toews asked if the zoning is being changed.
Ms. Dacy stated that, yes, they are changing the zoning district in a way. They are imposing another
set of restrictions but only the immediate area of the vacant land is being addressed. The
recommendation is start another process which requires a public hearing.
Ms. Toews asked if the other 11 proposed stations are going to be placed in quiet residential areas.
Mr. Stevens stated that Anoka, Coon Rapids/Riverdale, and Minneapolis have stations adjacent to a
residential neighborhood.
Ms. Toews asked how they could move this forward to make a commitment to station at this location if
do not have knowledge of the impact on the environment. It seems they are putting the cart before
the horse in this situation. She is very concerned about the air and noise pollution and the quality of
life.
Ms. Dacy stated that the Advanced Corridor Plan process is set by statute and, unfo�tunately, is timed
before the environmental issues have been presented to the public. However, the City is better
informed about the public's concerns as a result of this meeting and the informational meeting on
August 2, 2000.
Richard Harris, 6200 Riverview Terrace, asked Ms. Dacy if she had been in contact with the school
district.
Ms. Dacy stated that she has not.
Mr. Harris suggested that she do that because 10-12 to twelve buses go through that intersection on
61 S` at about the same time as 300 cars will go through. The consulting engineers should be well
aware of the parcel where the parking lot will go. Is there any structure or plan fo� the parcel on the
west side?
13
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING, SEPTEMBER 6, 2000 PAGE 14
Ms. Dacy stated that no structure is planned.
Mr. Harris stated that any work done will require a considerable amount of soil coRection. How many
extra trains will be put through on the main line during a 24 hour period?
Ms. Dacy stated the NCDA said there will be 18.
Mr. Harris asked if most trains will be run during the rush hour in the morning and in the evening.
Ms. Dacy stated, yes.
Mr. Harris stated that the consultants need to look at the traffic problems in the southern part of
Fridley and in the northern part of Fridley. The intersection at Osborne Road would become a
nightmare with putting that many more trains on the track. You will not be able to get across there. In
the morning with the freight track, many times the traffic is backed up onto East River Road from
Osborne Road. This will also increase the traffic at Mississippi Street and University Avenue. The
fire station at 77'h will probably be ineffective for the area east of the tracks. There should be one
more grade separation on one of those northern crossings at 85`h or 77�h or at Osborne Road. If this
thing works the way they think it is going to work, it will be too far befinreen separated grade crossings
to make the crossing from east to west effective. Using buses will put more pressure on the
intersections in the north.
Mr. Kondrick stated that these are three or four length trains.
Mr. Harris stated that when the signals come down and you close the intersection the traffic piles up.
The tra�c does not have enough time to clear the intersections if you are going to put that many
trains in.
Ms. Johns stated that the train track is only a block off of these roads.
Mr. Stevens stated that the trains are either three or four cars and a locomotive and will be quicker
passing than the current average 85 car Burlington Northern train. The service schedule calls for a
1/2 hour service. There will be a commuter train every 1/2 hour with the crossing arm going down
befoFe the train hits the intersection and it clears when the arm goes up, much like a traffic signal
cycle.
Ms. Knutson asked if the letter accepted from the people that live right across the street from the
proposed station could be read to the rest of the people.
Mr. Kondrick stated that it was long and it states the same concerns voiced by the audience.
Bill Camp, 6280 University, stated that the City of Fridley closed the access to his house from
University Avenue going south because of the excess traffic. They could not go down their own
street. That was for nearly no construction or big buildings on Main Street. To consider this now
through this residential area is a major concern. Crime is a concern. He has had his car stolen and
people with backpacks go into his garage if the door is open. Can another spot be found that does
not affect a highly residential area?
Ms. Savage stated there does not appear to be another area. They are working o� ways to lessen
the impacts to the neighborhood.
Mr. Camp asked what could be done. Are the folks going to get any help for the noise pollution?
14
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING, SEPTEMBER 6, 2000 PAGE 15
Ms. Savage stated that the concems have been voiced previousiy and are being recorded.
MOTION by Mr. Kondrick, seconded by Mr. Oquist, to close the public hearing.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, CHAIRPERSON SAVAGE DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Ms. Savage stated that they are certainly nowhere near any final decision process.
Ms. Dacy stated the Planning Commission could make a motion to recommend that the City Council
evaluate the language about the four principles and the station area plan and general principles and
guidelines. Another motion would be to suggest that the City Council recommend comments about
the detailed site plan and the recommended list to the NCDA to look at the parking spaces to the
maintenance issues. The Planning Commission could suggest that the City Council initiate a process
to establish an overlay type of zoning district.
Ms. Savage stated that the principles are contained in the station area, plan, and No�thstar commuter
rail project. On the second page there are three principles involving mixed and compact land uses:
Numbers 1 and 2 is enhanced environment; #3 is suppo�tive access patterns; #4 is neighborhood
compatibility. The comprehensive plan amendment with the Advanced Corridor Plan comments are in
response to concerns that the citizens made at the August 2 meeting on page 6. They include
investigation of reduction of parking on the east side and more parking on the west side and generally
involves concerns expressed by the neighbors.
Mr. Oquist stated that a good point to be addressed is the rail across East River Road and the impact
it will have in the morning.
Ms. Johns stated that buses at the school district use them.
Ms. Savage stated that could be added for #10 concerning railroad crossings and #11 concerning
bussing of the children.
Mr. Kuechle stated that they need more data. It would be helpful to have the traffic counts on all
those streets.
Ms. Savage stated that they are only stating the concerns to be addressed. They are not talking
about the merits of the concerns.
Ms. Dacy stated that Council would have to direct staff to initiate the process of the zoning overlay
and conduct hearings. She is not sure when that would occur. If this station is going to happen, it is
appropriate to bring this out at this point in time so the property owners could know.
Ms. Johns stated that Mr. Saba's concern of the maintenance issue should be added as #12.
Mr. Saba stated he is afraid they are on a fast track that they should not be on. They have questions
that have to be answered before this goes to City Council. The Council will not have any more
information than the Planning Commission has today. He is really afraid of what they are doing to this
neighborhood. He is in favor of this commuter rail and thinks it is a good system, but they have to
think about the neighborhood and the impact on the environment. That is major.
Ms. Savage stated that she does not think these concerns will get lost in the shuffle. They have been
discussed and laid out on the report from the staff.
15
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING, SEPTEMBER 6, 2000 PAGE 16
Mr. Saba stated that he does not want them to say that this is the only place to put the station, so
therefore the neighborhood's integrity can be put aside. That is not the solution. The solution is to
look at the design of the station and address every one of these issues. These people are scared.
Ms. Savage asked if there is any danger to this being on a fast track.
Ms. Dacy stated that regarding an Advanced Corridor Plan, the process is established in statute. The
statute says that the City needs to identify if it is agreeable and will approve the station or identify
conditions in which it woufd approve a station in the City. A time frame in the statute states that the
City has to respond within 45 days of receipt of the plan. October 23 is that deadline. They made the
exact same comment to the NCDA staff about assurance of how these ideas are going to be
addressed. The good news is that they are only at 10% and that could be addressed as a more
detailed design level is developed. The NCDA will respond to the cities on their comments on their
Advanced Corridor Plan within another 45 - 60 days after October 23. The Council has to take action
to say this is how we feel about the station, these are the conditions by which you need to address
this. They formally submit this to NCDA. NCDA does its work and looks at traffic and bussing and
railroad crossings and will give a response to be evaluated. These other layers will them kick in with
the EIS, preliminary engineering, etc. There is representation on the NCDA board itself. There is an
opportunity to hear back from �NCDA and the statutes have prescribed the process the City has to go
through in order to get a response back.
Ms. Johns asked what percent they would be at on October 23.
Ms. Dacy stated that it would still be at 10%.
Ms. Johns asked if they still could back out if things do not work out.
Ms. Dacy stated that the City on October 23 will say what conditions it will accept for the station site.
If NCDA comes back and says that they cannot meet those conditions, City Council has to adopt a
resolution as to whether they want the station or not. MnDOT and the Commissioner of
Transportation would have to evaluate Fridley's decision of having or not having a station and the
impact. There are a number of unknowns depending on the comments to be heard back.
Mr. Kondrick stated that he concurs with Mr. Saba, but he thinks many concerns can be addressed. It
will take time, plarining, and thinking and probably be managed. These people have a right to be
concerned. They are telling the City Council they are nervous about this and need more information.
Mr. Kuechle stated that he thinks they should be moving forward on this but he thinks they are lacking
data in a lot of areas.
Mr. Oquist stated he thinks this has to move forward to keep it going. One issue that keeps coming
up is that they may decide not to have this because of the noise issue. There is no way to stop the
trains from blowing the whistles.
Mr. Saba stated that the question is if we are really willing to sacrifice a neighborhood for commuter
raiL
Mr. Oquist stated that the decision right now is if they want a railroad station.
Ms. Savage stated they are simply moving the plan forward to get more data. She is ready to do that
and part of the recommendations is to have these various concerns studied.
16
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING, SEPTEMBER 6, 2000 PAGE 17
Mr. Saba asked if there wouid be an opportunity for the neighbors to come back befo�e the Planning
Commission and discuss these answers to these questions.
Ms. Dacy stated that they could create the opportunity. There is no prescribed process in the statute
for what the City can or cannot do for a process.
Ms. Johns stated that once the answers get back, it would be nice to get feedback.
Ms. Dacy stated that is fine. The City Council will want to add to the Advanced Corridor Plan and take
formal action to formally transmit it to the NCDA.
MOTION by Mr. Kondrick, seconded by Mr. Kuechle, to recommend to the City Council that they
proceed with City staff recommendations on its findings to NCDA regarding the location of a
commuter rail station site in Fridley, recommend the Council consider the draft Station Area Pfan, to
recommend that staff develop an overlay or special zoning district to guide development in and
around the station area, and to recommend consideration of staffs comments on the Advanced
Corridor Plan with the addition of #10 - 12 as follows:
ADVANCED CORRIDOR PLAN COMMENTS:
1. Traffic impacts from the park and ride site on the east side of the tracks need to be better
addressed, and further investigation is warranted to address the following:
a. Investigate the reduction of parking on the east side that is within a residential area versus the
west side that is located in an industrial or transition area.
b. Investigate separating the park and ride site on the east side from the neighborhood by
pushing the park and ride lots further south in the site.
c. Investigate different access modifications to deter traffic from cutting through the neighborhood
including relocating driveways, restricted turning movements, installing appropriate signage
(i.e. "No Through Traffic" sign), or creation of inedians or other traffic calming improvements.
d. The access driveway to the east park and ride lot should be shared with the remaining parcel.
2. The property dimensions of the site on the east side are not accurate and should reflect the land
area immediately west of the Parson's Electric building.
3. The storm water management system should address the following comments:
a. Underground ponding and treatments systems should be considered, especially for the west
side of the railroad tracks.
b. The pond on the east side should be relocated away from 615` Avenue and either located near
the remaining developable parcel or located to the extreme southwest part of the parcel.
c. A storm sewer system will have to be installed such that piping will have to extend from the
new pond location to the southwest corner of the intersection at 61s1 Avenue and Main Street.
4. The park and ride facilities should be designed in accordance with typical parking and landscaping
requirements found in the City's commercial and industrial zoning districts and in compatibility with
the neighborhood.
5. NCDA must plat the property prior to installation of improvements.
6. On the west side of the tracks, consider increasing the amount of parking, while maintaining the
Ashton Avenue street connection to 615` Way. Further, consider the creation of "open space"/"trail
stop resting" areas where the trail connects to the station area.
7. In order to address safety concerns, the NCDA should consider locating the "central control facility
"security building for the Northstar system on the east park and ride lot. Further, the building
should be built large enough for another user that would provide a neighborhood/commuter
customer service.
8. A pedestrian overpass connecting the two sites is essential. The City would prefer a facility
however that is accessible 24 hours and contains a ramp underneath the tracks for bicyclists and
pedestrian.
9. Provide pedestrian bikeway connections to all existing facilities.
17
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING, SEPTEMBER 6, 2000 PAGE 18
10. Identify the impacts of the frequency of the commuter rail line at other at-g�ade crossings in
Fridley, specifically at Osborne Road, 85�' Avenue, and 77"' Way.
11. Identify the potential tra�c conflicts on the west side of the station with the timing of the arrival and
departure of the school buses at the Stevenson Elementary School.
12. Assurance that long-term maintenance of the facility be appropriately and properly operated.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, COMMISSIONERS JOHNS, KONDRICK, KUECHLE, OQUIST, AND
SAVAGE VOTING AYE, COMMISSIONER SABA VOTING NAY, CHAIRPERSON SAVAGE
DECLARED THE MOTION CARRIED 5-1.
Ms. Dacy stated that this will go to City Council on September 25.
OTHER BUSINESS
3. RECEIVE THE MINUTES OF THE JULY 12. 2000. APPEALS COMMISSION MEETING.
MOTION by Mr. Kuechle, seconded by Mr. Kondrick, to receive the July 12 Appea�s Commission
meeting minutes.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, CHAIRPERSON SAVAGE DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
4. RECEIVE THE MINUTES OF THE JULY 13 2000 HOUSING AND REDEVELOPMENT
AUTHORITY MEETING.
MOTION by Mr. Kondrick, seconded by Mr. Saba, to receive the July 13 Housing and Redevelopment
Authority meeting minutes.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, CHAIRPERSON SAVAGE DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
5. RECEIVE THE MINUTES OF THE JULY 18 2000 ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY & ENERGY
COMMISSION MEETING.
MOTION by Mr. Oquist, seconded by Mr. Saba, to receive the July 18 Environmental Quality and
Energy Commission meeting minutes.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, CHAIRPERSON SAVAGE DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
6. RECEIVE THE fVIINUTES OF THE JUNE 5 2000 PARKS AND RECREATION
COMMISSION MEETING.
MOTION by Mr. Kondrick, seconded by Mr. Oquist, to receive the June 5 Parks and Recreation
Commission meeting minutes.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, CHAIRPERSON SAVAGE DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
7. RECEIVE THE MINUTES OF THE AUGUST 9 2000 APPEALS COMMISSION MEETING.
MOTION by Mr. Kuechle, seconded by Mr. Saba, to receive the August 9 Appeals Commission
meeting minutes.
:�
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING, SEPTEMBER 6, 2000 PAGE 19
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, CHAIRPERSON SAVAGE DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
ADJOURN
MOTION by Mr. Saba, seconded by Mr. Oquist, to adjourn the meeting.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, CHAIRPERSON SAVAGE DECLARED THE MOTION
CARRIED AND THE SEPTEMBER 6, 2000, PLANNING COMMISSION ADJOURNED AT 10:35
P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
�� � �
� ,a �.�.
Sig L. Joh on a �j
Recording Secretary
19
� AGENDAITEM
� CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 25, 2000
4TY OF
FRIDLEY
Date: 9/19/00
To: William Burns, City Manager �����
From: Barbara Dacy,. Community Development Director
Scott Hickok, Planning Coordinator
Paul Bolin, Planner
RE: Planning Commission action on LS #00-04 M-00-153
INTRODUCTION
The City of Fridley has been asked by Willard Weikle & Van O Lite to grant a lot
split, of a portion of the Alano property at 5943 University Avenue, allowing the
construction of a commercial building on the newly created lot. Both lots, if the split
is granted, would meet all zoning code requirements for lot size.
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION
At the September 6, 2000 Planning Commission meeting, a public hearing was
held for LS #00-04. A motion was made to approve Lot Split, LS #00-04, to allow
the property located at 5943 University Avenue to be split into two lots.
THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
PLANNING STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Since the Planning Commission action, it was determined that a stipulation be
added requiring the payment of park fees for the new parcel. City Staff
recommends that the City Council concur with the planning commission and grant
the proposed Lot Split, LS #00-04, with stipulations as presented; and an additional
stipulation which reads
13. The petitioner shall pay the required park fees prior to the issuance of the
building permit.
20
RESOLUTION NO. � ______
A RESOLUTION APPROVING A SUBDIVISION, LOT SPLIT, LS #00-04, TO
ESTABLISH A SIZE CONFORMING COMMERCIAL LOT, GENERALLY
LOCATED AT 5943 UNIVERSITY AVENUE
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a public hearing on the Lot Split, LS
#00-04, on September 6, 2000 and recommended approval; and
WHEREAS, the City Council at the September 25, 2000 meeting approved the Lot
Split request subject to the stipulations in Exhibit A; and
WHEREAS, such approval was to establish a commercial lot meeting the City lot
size requirements, based on new legal descriptions which read as follows; and
Proposed Van O Lite Parcel: The North 20' of Lot 26, Lots 27-30, Block 13,
together with half the vacated alley adjacent thereto, Hyde Park, Anoka County,
Minnesota.
Remaining Alano Parcel: Lots 18-25, the South 20' of Lot 26, Btock 13, together
with half the vacated alley adjacent thereto, Hyde Park, Anoka County, Minnesota.
WHEREAS, the Ciry has received the required Certificate of Survey from the owner.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Fridley
directs the petitioner to record this Lot Split at Anoka county within six (6) months or
said approval shall become null and void.
PASSED AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FRIDLEY
THIS 25T" DAY OF SEPTEMBER 2000.
ATTEST:
DEBRA A. SKOGEN - CITY CLERK
NANCY J. JORGENSON - MAYOR
21
EXHIBIT A
1. Petitioner responsible for any actions required to transfer fee title to the vacated
alley. This action must be completed prior to issuance of any building permits
due to the fact that the lot is substandard in size without inclusion of the vacated
alleyway.
2. Petitioner shall obtain all necessary permits prior to construction.
3. A landscape plan meeting all code requirements for number of, size of, and
types of trees shall be submitted prior to issuance of any building permits.
4. All boulevard and landscaped areas shall be properly irrigated and sprinkled as
required by City Code.
5. Petitioner shall pravide code required number of parking stalls.
6. Storm pond must meet approval of City engineering staff.
7. Petitioner shall install code required screening fence along east property line to
properly screen this proper-ty from neighboring residen#ial property.
8. No outdoor storage or displays to be permitted on this site.
9. Any Iighting on outside of building shall be downcast and shielded to minimize
impact on neighboring residential area. Said lighting must not measure more
than 3 candle foot power at the property line.
10. Parking area to be screened from the ROW by a combination of berms and
continuous plantings of at least 3' in height.
11. Parking lot shall be striped for one way traffic.
12. Building shall incorporate face brick, natural stone or other masonry product
approved by City Staff. Masonry product shall be used on all 4 sides of building
to give the building architectural balance and a finished appearance.
13. The petitioner shall pay the required park fees prior to the issuance of the
building permit.
22
City of Fridley Land Use Application
LS-00-04 September 6, 2000
GENERAL INFORMATION SPECIAL INFORVIATION
Applicant:
Earl Weikle & Sons Van O Lite
2514 24`h Ave. S. 6041 University Ave
MPLS, MN 55427 Fridley, MN 55432
Requested Action:
Lot Split
Purpose:
To create an additional commercial lot.
Exissting Zoning: �
C-2 (General Business District)
Locarion:
5925/5943 University Avenue NE
Lot Size: (After split)
• Van-O-Lite 24,570 square feet .86 ac.
• ALANO 45,900 square feet 1.05 ac.
Existing Land Use:
Vacant.
Surrounding Land Use & Zoning:
N: Commercial, C-2
E: Single Family, R-2
S: Commercial, C-2
W: Single Family, S-1
Comprehensive Plan Conformance:
Consistent with Plan
Zoning Ordinance Conformance: - -
Proposed lot sizes exceed City Code
requirements.
Legal Description of Properiy:
See attachment
Public Utilities:
Available near the site.
Transportation:
East University Avenue Frontage Road
provides access to the site.
Physical Characteristics:
Level, typical suburban grass covered lot.
SUMVIARY OF PROJECT
Peritioner, is seeking to split the lot in order to
construct a new commercial building for Van-O-
Lite.
SUIVI�VIARY OF ANALYSIS
City Staff recommends approval of this lot split
request.
Proposed lots exceed the size standards required
by the Ciry of Fridley Zoning Code. Fridley
requires that lots in a C-2 district be a minimum
total lot area of 24,000 square feet. The proposed
lots would exceed this minimum size.
CITY COLtNCIL ACTION / 60 DAY DATE
23
View of Lot from North
Staff Report Prepared by: Paul Bolin
LS #00-04
Anal sis
Van-O-Lite and Earl Weikle & Sons, petitioners, have reached an agreement with the
Alano Society to purchase a portion of property to create a legal sized lot. As a result the
petitioner is seeking a lot split from the Planning Commission in order to use the additional
2,700± square feet of property to create a parcel that is 24,570 square feet.
If the lot split is granted, both lots will still meet City zoning codes for lot sizes and setbacks.
The lot split is being requested so that the petitioner can construct a new retail store for
Van-O-Lite, which has outgrown iYs current location at 6041 University Avenue. The
additional land area will allow the petitioners to obtain enough property to meet the City's
lot size requirements for the C-2 zoning district. �
The petitioners had previously sought a lot split in April of this year for this property. That
request was withdrawn due to the large number of variances that were also being
requested. After withdrawing both requests, the petitioners reduced the number of
variances by redesigning the project and have since received a recommendation of
approval on the variance requests from the Appeals Commission.
(Photos: Left, View from North; Right, properties adjacent to the East side of property.)
Staff Recommendation
City Statf recommends approval of this lot split request.
Both lots will meet all code requirements for size after lot split.
Stipulations
City Staff recommend that the following stipulations be placed upon approval of this
request.
1. Petitioner responsible for any actions required to transfer fee title to the vacafed alley.
This acfion must be completed prior to issuance of any building permits due to the
fact that the lot is substandard in size without inclusion of the vacated alleyway.
24
2. Petitioner shall obtain all necessary permits prior to construction.
3. A landscape plan meeting all code requirements for number of, size of, and types of
trees shall be submitted prior to issuance of any building permits.
4. All boulevard and landscaped areas shall be properly irrigated and sprinkled as
required by City Code.
5. Petitioner shall provide code required number of parking stalls.
6. Storm pond must meet approval of City engineering staff.
7. Petitioner shall install code required screening fence along east property line to
properly screen this property from neighboring residential property.
8. No outdoor storage or displays to be permitted on this site.
9. Any lighting on outside of building shall be downcast and shielded to minimize
impact on neighboring residential area. Said lighting must not measure more than 3
candle foot power at the property line.
10. Parking area to be screened from the RO W by a combination of berms and
continuous plantings of at least 3' in height.
11. Parking lot shall be striped for one way tra�c.
12. Building shall incorporate face brick, natural stone or other masonry product
approved by City Staff. Masonry product shall be used on all 4 sides of building to
give the building architectural balance and a finished appearance.
13. The petitioner shall pay the required park fees prior to the issuance of the building
permit.
25
/ AGENDAITEM
� CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 25, 2000
cmr oF
FRIDLEY
Date: 9/19/00 ,�
To: William Burns, City Manager f'���
�
From: Paul Bolin, Planner
Scott Hickok, Flanning Coordinator
Barbara Dacy, Community Development Director
RE: VAR #00-21 (Van O Lite Variance) M-00-154
INTRODUCTION
Petitioner, is seeking to reduce the required parking setback from 20' to 10',
reduce the�required 15' planting strip to 10', and reduce the required parking stall
width to 9' in order to construct a new commercial building for Van-O-Lite at 5943
University Avenue.
APPEALS COMMISSION ACTION
At the August 9, 2000 Appeals Commission meeting, a public hearing was held for
VAR #00-21. After a brief discussion a motion was made to recommend approval
of the variance requests to reduce the required parking setback from 20' to 10',
- reduce the required 15' planting strip to 10'. The motions carried unanimously.
After continued discussion, a motion was made to recommend denial of the request
to reduce the parking stall width from 10' to 9' to the west and south side and to
recommend approval to the east side of 9' with stipulations. The motion carried
unanimously.
1. Approval is dependent upon Lot Split approval.
2. Petitioner responsible for any actions required to transfer fee title to the
vacated alley. This action must be completed prior to issuance of any
building permits due to the fact that the lot is substandard in size without
inclusion of the vacated alleyway.
3. Petitioner shall obtain all necessary permits prior to construcfion.
4. A landscape plan meeting all code requirements for number of, size of, and
types of trees shall be submitted prior to issuance of any building permits.
5. Petitioner shall provide code required number of parking stalls.
���
Memorandum
6. Storm pond must meet approval of City engineering staff.
7. The nin-foot designated stalls shall have a sign for employee parking only.
PLANNING STAFF RECOMMENDATION
City Staff recommends the City Council concur with the Appeals Commission
recommendation of approval for VAR #00-21.
12/22/98
27
City of Fridley Land Use Application
VAR-00-21 August 9, 2000
GENERAL INFORMATION SPECIAL INFORNIATION
Applicant:
Earl Weikle & Sons Van O Lite
2514 24`h Ave. S. 6041 University Ave
MPLS, MN 55427 Fridley, MN 55432
Requested Action:
Variance
Purpose:
To construct a new building for Van O Lite
on an exisring vacant lot. .
Exisrting Zoning:
C-2 (General Business District)
Locarion:
5925/5943 University Avenue NE
Lot Size: (After Lot Split approval)
• Van-O-Lite 24,570 square feet .86 acres
Existing Land Use:
Vacant.
Surrounding Land Use & Zoning:
N: Commercial, G2
E: Single Family, R-2
S: Commercial, C-2
W: Single Family, S-1
Comprehensive Plan Conformance:
Consistent with Plan
Zoning Ordinance Conforn�ance:
Sec. 205.14.OS.D.(5).(a) requires a
parking setback of 20' from the ROW.
Sec. 205.14.07.D.(2).(b) requires a 15'
planting strip to be located behind code
required sidewalk. Sec. 205.03.55
requires parking stalls to be 10' in width.
Legal Description of Property:
See attachment
Public Utilities:
Available near the site.
Transportarion:
East Uni�ersity Avenue Frontage Road
provides access to the site.
:
Physical Characteristics:
Level, typical suburban ss covered lot.
SUMMARY OF PROJECT
Petitioner, is seeking to reduce the required parking
setback from 20' to 10', reduce the required 15'
planting strip to 10', and reduce the required
parking stall width to 9' in order to construct a new
commercial building for Van-O-Lite.
SUMMARY OF ANALYSIS
• City Staff recommends denial of the
request to reduce the parking stall width
from 10' to 9'.
City Staff has no recommendation on the
request to reduce the required parking
setbackfrom 20'to.10'.
City Staff has no recommendation on the
request to redzice the reqa�ired 15'
planting strip behind the sidewalk to
10'.
CITY COUNCIL ACTION / 60 DAY DATE
View ofLot from North
Staff Report Prepared by: Paul Bolin
VAR #00-21
Analvsis
Petitioner, is seeking to reduce the required parking setback from 20' to 10', reduce the
required 15' planting strip to 10', and reduce the required parking stall width to 9' in order
to construct a new commercial building for Van-O-Lite.
Van-O-Lite and Earl Weikle & Sons, petitioners, have reached an agreement with the
Alano Society to purchase a portion of property to create a legal sized lot. As a result the
petitioner is also seeking a lot split from the Planning Commission in order to use the
additional 2,700± square feet of property to create a parcel that is 24,570 square feet. The
additional land area will allow the petitioners to obtain enough property to meet the City's
lot size requirements for the G2 zoning district.
The lot split must meet up with the variance request at the City Council, as a variance
cannot be issued to a lot that has yet to be created. As a result, the 60 day agency action
date for the variance has been extended until November 11th to allow the lot split and
variance requests to both go before the City Council on September 25, 2000.
(Photos: Left, View from North; Right, properties adjacent to the East side of property.)
Staff Recommendation
City Staff recommends denial of the request to reduce the parking stall width from 10' to
9'. �
. This is a commercial parking lot with high turnover, therefore, reducing the width of
parking stalls is not recommended.
City Staff has no recommendation on the request to reduce the required parking setback
from 20'to�10'.
. Granting of this variance would be consistent with the parking area for the Alano
property immediately to the south of this property.
29
City Staff has no recommendation on the request to reduce the required 15' planting
strip behind the sidewalk to 10'.
. Granting of this variance would also be consistent with the adjacent property
immediately to the south of this lot.
Stipulations
City Staff recommend that the following stipulations be placed upon approval of these
requests.
1. Approval is dependent upon Lot Split approval.
2. Petitioner responsib/e for any actions required to transfer fee title to the vacated alley.
This action must be completed prior to issuance of any building permits due to the
fact that the lot is substandard in size without inclusion of the vacated alleyway.
3. Petitioner shall obtain all necessary permits prior to construction.
4. A landscape plan meeting all code requirements for number of, size of, and types of
trees shall be submitted prior to issuance of any building permits.
5. Petitioner shall provide code required number of parking stalls.
6. Storm pond must meet approval of City engineering staff.
����
CITY OF FRIDLEY
APPEALS COMMISSION MEETING
AUGUST 9, 2000
2. PUBLIC HEARIN�: VARIANCE REQUEST, VAR #00-21, BY EARL WEIKLE &
SONS:
Per Section 205.14.05.D.(5).(a) of the Fridley Zoning Code, to reduce the
required parking setback from 20 feet to 10 feet;
Per Section 205.14.07.D.(2).(b) of the Fridley Zoning Code, to reduce the 15 foot
planting strip behind the required sidewalk from 15 feet to 10 feet;
Per Section 205.03.55 of the Fridley Zoning Code, to reduce the parking stall
width from 10 feet to 9 feet;
To allow the construction of a new commercial building on the north 20 feet of Lot
26 and all of Lots 27, 28, 29, 30, Block 13, Hyde Park, Anoka County, MN,
together with that part of the west half of the vacated alley adjacent hereto,
generally located at 5943 University Avenue.
MOTION by Dr. Vos, seconded by Mr. Jones, to waive the reading of the public hearing
notice and open the public hearing.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, CHAIRPERSON KUECHLE DECLARED
THE MOTION CARRIED AND THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS OPENED AT 8:30 P.M.
Mr. Bolin stated that the petitioners are seeking to reduce the required parking setback
from 20 feet to 10 feet and reduce the required 15 foot planting strip behind the
sidewalk to 10 feet. That request is a resul► of the request to reduce the parking
setback. They are requesting also to reduce the required parking stall width down to
nine feet in order to construct a new commercial building for Van-O-Lite on the corner of
the University Avenue Frontage road and 60ih Avenue. The address would be either
5925 or 5943 University. It is a combination of two vacant lots. The petitioner will be
going to the Planning Commission for a lot split. The request was previously withdrawn
partially due to the large number of variances required with the first proposed plan for
this site. The lot split would give the petitioners enough land area to meet the required
lot size for the zoning district. They will be acquiring some property from the Alano
Society which would be their neighbor to the south.
Mr. Bolin stated that the property is zoned C-2, commercial. R-2, twofamily residential
is immediately to the east of the property. Across University Avenue is R-1 single family
zoning. To the north is also C-2. The Code does require a parking setback of 20 feet
along any street right-of-ways. This also requires a fifteen-foot planting strip to be
located behind the code required sidewalks. There is a sidewalk already in front of this
property. The City code does require parking stalls to be ten feet in width.
Mr. Bolin stated staff has three separate recommendations for the three separate
requests. Staff recommends denial of the request to reduce the parking stall width from
10 feet to 9 feet. This is a commercial parking lot with high turnover; therefore reducing
the width of the parking stalls is not recommended. By going with the nine foot parking
stalls, the petitioner is able to get 31 parking stalls located on this property. The code
31
APPEALS COMMISSION MEETING, AUGUST 9, 2000 PAGE 2
requires them to have 28 parking stalls plus a handicap stall. If the City holds them to
the ten-foot wide parking stalls, they could probably get 28 stalls. They would then be
seeking a variance to reduce the number of parking stalls from the 29 to 27 or 28. Staff
has no recommendation regarding reducing the required parking setback from 20 feet to
10 feet. It is consistent with the parking area, and staff has no recommendation on the
request to reduce the 15 foot planting strip. That is consistent with what is going on the
Alano property and along the entire section of University.
Mr. Bolin stated that this item would go to Council on September 25. He received an
updated version of the site plan received from the petitioner tonight. It shows 31
parking stalls with eighteen-foot one-way drive aisles. The parking lot will be striped
and marked to force people to maintain the one way drive aisle. There is a ten foot
separation on the west side from the property line, therefore needing the ten foot
parking setback variance as well as the setback variance for the planting area from 15
to 10 feet. The parking stall width is nine feet.
Dr. Vos asked how many nine-foot stalls they have approved for commercial sites.
Mr. Bolin stated he does not know of any.
Dr. Vos asked if this is only permitted for parking ramps.
Mr. Bolin stated that it is for parking ramps and a permitted use in the industrial district
as welL
Mr. Will Weikle, representative of Weikle and Sons Construction, stated that his
company is assisting in the design of the building and parking.
Mr. David McLellan, Van-O-Lite representative, stated that there is a steady flow of
retail traffic but it is two to three customers at a time. There is rarely more than that.
The vast majority of the parking is for a staff of 25. They now have more of an office
situation with people doing lighting design.
Ms. Jackson asked where the staff parks.
Mr. McLellan stated that they park to the south, some to the back and some to the
north.
Mr. Weikle stated that they have commissioned a land surveying and engineering firm
to speak tonight regarding the ponds and parking layout.
Chet Harris, RLK Kuisisto, stated that it is a rare occurrence in developing parking lots
to have ten-foot wide stalls. They would like the Commission to reconsider putting in
nine-foot stalls since that is the standard for the industry.
Ms. Jackson asked what the impact of having fewer stalls would be.
K��
APPEALS COMMISSION MEETING, AUGUST 9, 2000 PAGE 3
Mr. McLellan stated they are better off having more stalls based on the employee
parking that is needed. The more stalls, the more opportunities there are to make sure
they keep everybody on the property.
Mr. Tynjala asked if they need 29 or 31 parking stalls.
Mr. Bolin stated that they need 29 stalls including the handicap parking.
Dr. Vos asked if that was determined by the size of the building.
Mr. Bolin stated that it was determined by the size of the building and the usage. Here
there is a mix of office space, retail, and storage areas.
Dr. Vos asked if there was a possibility to have a variance request that would say where
the nine-foot is versus where the ten foot is.
Mr. McLellan stated they want to make sure the building is compliant. They do not
perceive themselves using all the stalls that they need.
Dr. Vos stated that the stalls most visible to the service road are where the consumer
would be most likely to park.
Mr. Kuechle asked what the possibilities are of reducing the number of stalls and
making them ten feet wide.
Mr. McLellan stated that they probably will have to approach the awning area.
Mr. Bolin stated that he and Mr. Hickok briefly discussed a new option. To avoid setting
a precedence allowing nine-foot stalls, the stalls along University Avenue would be
where the retail customers could park. Those would be ten feet wide losing a stall for a
total of nine. The employee parking would be along the south side and also on the east
side at nine-foot widths. That would leave thirty parking stalls with one more than
required by code and closer to the number that the petitioners are looking for.
Mr. Tynjala asked how often the variance is granted for the number of stalls.
Mr. Bolin stated that he does not recall any.
Mr. Hickok stated that he does not recall any either. Reducing the stall size by one foot
is setting a bad precedent and one that they do not want to have to respond to for life.
The philosophy in the industrial district is that for the non-turnover stalls, they will be
able to use a nine-foot stall. That same philosophy will be applied here that those will
be assigned to employees. As far as number of stalls, banks are growing more critical
about parking ratios for finance purposes. Banks do not want to finance parking lots
with future problems as they go to remarket that property. The third recommendation of
staff is a solution that cuts midway between the reducing the stalls in a commercial
district and not having enough park8ing on-site.
Mr. Weikle stated they are in favor of staff s new suggestion.
33
APPEALS COMMISSION MEETING, AUGUST 9, 2000 PAGE 4
Mr. Kuechle asked about the typical customer.
Mr. McLeilan stated that it varies.
Mr. Kuechle asked if contractors were likely to be coming in with a pick-up truck or
residential people.
Mr. McLellan stated that it is primarily residential with a few pick-ups here and there.
MOTION by Ms. Jackson, seconded by Mr. Tynjala, to close the public hearing.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, CHAIRPERSON KUECHLE DECLARED
THE MOTION CARRIED AND THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED AT 8:58 P.M.
MOTION by Dr. Vos, seconded by Ms. Jackson, to recommend approval of VAR #00-21
to reduce the 15 foot planting strip behind the required sidewalk from 15 feet to 10 feet.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, CHAIRPERSON KUECHLE DECLARED
THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
MOTION by Dr. Vos, seconded by Mr. Jones, to recommend approval of VAR #00-21 to
reduce the required parking setback from 20 feet to 10 feet.
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, CHAIRPERSON KUECHLE DECLARED
THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. -
Mr. Kuechle stated that to have fewer parking stalls would probably create some
problems in the future. He would not like to see the number of parking stalls reduced.
He would prefer the nine-foot stalls for the employees, rather than reducing the number
of stalls.
Mr. Tynjala asked if they were denying the request to the west and approving the east
and south.
Mr. Bolin stated that is correct.
Mr. Tynjala stated that he is far less concerned about the east, as he is about the south.
He is concerned about customers parking in the nine-foot wide stalls and the question is
how far do they want to go to set that kind of precedent.
Mr. Jones asked if there was anything to be done on the south to make them all ten feet
wide.
Mr. Kuechle asked if the storm water was going to the east.
Mr. Hickok stated that the storm water would end up going to the northeast corner.
Mr. Kuechle asked if it was possible to move a little further east.
34
APPEALS COMMISSION MEETING, AUGUST 9, 2000 PAGE 5
Mr. Hickok stated that all of the grading works best in there to keep the parking stalls
where they are at.
Mr. Bolin stated that if they went with ten-foot parking stalls on the east, it would be
possible to put nine of them along that side. One more stall would be lost, but that
would still be compliant leaving them with 29.
Mr. Tynjala stated that he would support that.
Mr. Kuechle stated that they are making a little bit of an assumption that the building will
have the same use by leaving employee parking at nine-foot stall widths.
Mr. Jones stated that he would be more comfortable leaving ten on the west, south, and
nine on the east. No matter what the building's use is, employees will always need
parking. He would be comfortable with 29 parking stalls.
Ms. Jackson stated that she would like to have as many ten foot spots as possible and
having the nine foot on the rear and having the 29 stalls is the best solution.
Dr. Vos stated that he feels they could have nine-foot stalls for the employees around
the back and have the retail spots be ten feet wide.
Mr. Kuechle stated that he will support ten feet on the west side and ten feet on the
south side. He would rather see more parking stalls, because he knows there are too
many places in the City without eno�agh parking stalls. He can relate to his own
business' experience where they were compliant in the number of parking stalls
needed, but recently had to extend the number because they did not have enough.
Mr. Hickok stated that they probably want the correct stalls assigned as employee
parking so there is no question to the person driving in the site that the intent is for
employee parking on the east side.
Dr. Vos stated that they could add that stipulation.
MOTION by Dr. Vos, seconded by Mr. Jones, to recommend denial of variance, VAR
#00-21, to reduce the parking stall width from 10 feet to 9 feet to the west and south
side and approval to the east side of 9 feet with the following stipulations
1. Approval is dependent upon lot split approval.
2. The petitioner is responsible for any actions pertaining to the lot split.
3. The petitioner shall obtain all necessary permits prior to construction.
4. A landscape plan meeting all code requirements for number and size and
types of trees shall be submitted prior to issuance of any building permits.
5. The petitioner shall provide the code-required number of parking stalls.
6. The storm pond must meet approval with City engineering staff.
7. The nine-foot designated stalls shall have a sign for employee parking.
�C�
APPEALS COMMISSION MEETING, AUGUST 9, 2000 PAGE 6
UPON A VOICE VOTE, ALL VOTING AYE, CHAIRPERSON KUECHLE DECLARED
THE MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY.
Dr. Vos stated that this will go to the Council on September 25, 2000.
Mr. McLellan asked when he needed the revised plan.
Mr. Bolin stated that he needed it within a week or so.
36
!
`
C�I'Y OF
FRIDLEIf
AGENDA ITEM
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 25, 2000
TO: William W
FROM
DATE:
SUBJECT:
Burns, City Manager (� �
��
John G. Flora, Public Works Director
September 25, 2000
MnDOT Cooperative Agreement No. 80733
PW00-117
MnDOT has requested the City execute a cooperative agreement for reimbursement of costs
associated with the University Avenue ditch project. The agreement entails the payment to the City
for the cost of the pipe material associated with the ditch project from 69`� to 815C Avenue.
Recommend the City Council authorize the mayor and city manager to execute Cooperative
Construcrion Agreement No. 80733 with the Minnesota Department of Transportation.
JGF:cz
Attachments
37
RESOLUTION NO. - 2000
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF AGREEI�NT NO. 80733
BETWEEN THE CITY OF FRIDLEY AND THE MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION
WHEREAS IT IS RESOLVED that the City of Fridley enter into MnDOT
Agreement No. 80733 with the State of Minnesota, Department of
Transportation for the following purposes:
To provide for payment by the State to the City of the State's
share of the costs of the materials for storm sewer construction
to be performed adjacent to Trunk Highway No. 47 from 69th Avenue
to 815t Avenue within the corporate City limits under State
Project No. 0205-80 (T.H. 47=156).
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the City Council of the City
of Fridley, Anoka County, Minnesota, authorizes the mayor and
city manager to execute the agreement and any amendments to the
agreement.
PASSED AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FRIDLEY
THIS 25th DAY OF SEPTEMBER 2000.
ATTEST:
DEBRA A. SKOGEN - CITY CLERK
NANCY J. JORGENSON, MAYOR
:
A
PRE-LETTING STATE OF MINNESOTA Mn/DOT
SERVICES DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AGREEMENT NO.
SECTION COOPERATIVE CONSTRUCTION
AGREEMENT . 80733
S.P. 0205-80 (T.H. 47=156)
S.A.P. 127-050-003
C.P. ST2000-6
The State of Minnesota
Department of Transportation, and
't'he Ci�y of Fridlev
Re: State lump sum payment for storm
sewer construction by the City
adjacent to T.H. 47
AMOUNT ENCUMBERED
- � ��
AMOUNT RECEIVABLE
�•�-
THIS AGREEMENT is made and entered into by and between the State of
Minnesota, Department of Transportation, hereinafter referred to as
the "State" and the City of Fridley, Minnesota, acting by and through
its City Council, hereinafter referred to as the "City".
1
39
80733
WHEREAS the City is about to perform storm sewer and ditch
improvement construction and other associated construction upon,
along and adjacent to Trunk Highway No. 47 from 69th Avenue to glst
Avenue within the corporate City limits in accordance with
City-prepared plans, specifications and/or special provisions
designated by the City as City Project No. ST2000-6 and by the State
as State Aid Project No. 127-050-003 and as State Project No. 0205-80
(T.H. 47=156); and
WHEREAS the City has reguested participation by the State in the
costs of the materials for storm sewer construction; and
WHEREAS the State is willing to participate in the costs of the
materials for storm sewer construction in an amount equal to
$32,170.00 as hereinafter set forth; and
WHEREAS Minnesota Statutes Section 161.20, subdivision 2 authorizes
the Commissioner of Transportation to make arrangements with and
cooperate with any governmental authority for the purposes of
constructing, maintaining and improving the trunk highway system.
IT I'S, THEREFORE, MUTUALLY AGRE�D AS FOLLOWS:
ARTICLE I- CONSTRUCTION BY THE CITY
Section A. Contract Award and Construction �
The City did receive bids and shall award a construction contract to
the lowest responsible bidder in accordance with State-approved City
plans, specifications and/or special provisions designated by the
City as City Project No. ST2000-6 and by the State as State Projects
No. 127-050-003 and No. 0205-80 (T.H. 47=156).. Execution of this
Agreement shall constitute concurrence by the State in that award.
The contract construction shall be performed in accordance with
State-approved City plans, specifications and/or special provisions
which are on file in the office of the City's Engineer, and are made
2
40
80733
a part hereof by reference with the same force and effect as though
fully set forth herein.
3ection B Direction Supervision and Inspection of Construc i�r
The contract construction shall be under the direction of the City
and under the supervision of a registered professional engineer;
however, the contract construction shall be open to inspection by the
State's Metropolitan Division Engineer at Roseville or his authorized
representatives. The City shall give the State Aid Agreements
Engineer five days notice of its intention to start the contract
construction.
Responsibility for the control of materials for the contract
construction shall be on the City and its contractor and shall be
carried out in accordance with Specifications No. 1601 through and
including No. 1609 as set forth in the State's current "Standard
Specifications for Construction".
�ection C Completion of Construction
The City shall cause the contract construction to be started and
completed in accordance with the time schedule in the construction
contract special provisions. The completion date for the contract
construction may be extended, by an exchange of letters between the
appropriate City official and the State Division Engineer's
authorized representative, for unavoidable delays encountered in the
performance thereof.
- ., • _. ._..--
All changes in the plans, specifications and/or special provisions
for the contract construction and all addenda, change orders and/or
supplemental agreements entered into by the City and its contractor
for contract construction must be approved in writing by the State
Division Engineer's authorized representative.
3
41
80733
- .� .. .�. _ - • . -- _�. ;-.�_ _ .._
- - - -
The City shall, in connection with the award and administration of
the construction contract and the performance of the contract
construction, comply and cause its contractor to comply with all
Federal, State and Local laws, and all applicable ordinances and
regulations.
. . . - -��- z - t. - .� -
�-
The City shall, without cost or expense to the State, obtain all
rights-of-way, easements, construction permits and/or any other
permits and sanctions that may be required in connection with the
contract construction. Prior to advance payment by the State, the
City shall furnish the State with certified copies of the documents
for those rights-of-way and easements, and certified copies of those
construction permits and/or other permits and sanctions required for
the contract construction.
ARTICLE II - PAYMENT BY THE STATE
The State shall advance to the City, as the State's full and complete
share of the costs of the material for storm sewer construction to be
performed adjacent to Trunk Highway No. 47 from 69th Avenue to 813t
Avenue within the corporate City limits under State Project
No. 0205-80 (T.H. 47=156}, a lump sum in the amount of $32,170.00.
The State shall advance to the City the lump sum amount after the
following conditions have been met:
A. Encumbrance by the State of the State's full and complete lump
sum cost share.
B. Receipt by the State from the City of certified documentation for
all of the right-of-way and easement acquisition required for the
contract construction, and the approval of that documentation by
the State's Land Management Director at St. Paul.
4
42
80733
C. Execution and approval of this Agreement and the State's
transmittal of same to the City. If execution and approval of
this Agreement does not constitute concurrence by the State in
the award of the construction contract, a letter advising the
City of the State's concurrence in the award of the construction
contract shall accompany the City's copy of this Agreement.
D. Receipt by the State of a written request from the City for the
advancement of funds. The request shall include certification by
the City that the construction contract has been executed by all
necessary parties.
�.� • • � � • l�e� _�M. _ � �i� _ _ �_ _ � 4i������r�
The City shall keep records and accounts that enable it to provide
the State, when requested, with the following:
A. Copies of the City contractor's invoice(s) covering all contract
construction.
B. Copies of the endorsed and canceled City warrant(s) or check(s)
paying for final contract construction, or computer documentation
�of the warrant(s) issued, certified by an appropriate City
official that final construction contract payment has been made.
C. Copies of all construction contract change orders and/or
supplemental agreements.
D. A certification form, provided by the State, signed by the City's
Engineer in charge of the contract construction attesting to the
following:
1. Satisfactory performance and completion of all contract
construction in accordance with State-approved City plans,
specifications and/or special provisions.
5
43
80733
2. Acceptance and approval of all materials furnished for the
contract construction relative to compliance of those
materials to the State's current "Standard Specifications for
Construction".
3. Full payment by the City to its contractor for all contract
construction.
E. Copies, certified by the City's Engineer, of material sampling
reports and of material testing results for the materials
furnished for the contract construction.
F. A copy of the "as built" plan sent to the State's District
Engineer.
ARTICLE IV - GENER.AL PROVISIONS
Section A. Maintenance by the City
Upon satisfactory completion of the storm sewer facilities and
City-owned facilities construction to be performed within the
corporate City limits under the construction contract, the City shall
provide for the proper maintenance of those facili��e =µ�-wi-�l�y�t��,�����"`°;�
or expense to the State .�,r �f �-- �'��'� fi"' � ` j � �''�- � 9 �,�' l�v`qYPUBLIG-"+�:'��'�;C•SO'+P• �
� 1 M�; c���ht�Gs��ra ��r',�s
�. )� / �;(.l.!! �� 7��`.��/�� - - ,....•a����.,�� � ��.� � '`i
�
ti B Addit'on 1 'n
Neither party to this Agreement shall drain any additional drainage
into the storm sewer facilities to be constructed under the
construction contract, that was not included in the drainage for
which the storm sewer facilities were designed, without first
obtaining permission to do so from the other party. The drainage
areas served by the storm sewer facilities constructed under the
construction contract are shown in a drainage area map, EXHIBIT
"Drainage Area", which is on file in the office of the State's
District Hydraulics Engineer at Golden Valley and is made a part
6
44
EI�%Z��7
hereof by reference with the same force and effect as though fully
set forth herein.
- . _� .�_ . _..�_ - . .��
As provided by Minnesota Statutes Section 16C.05, subdivision 5, the
books, records, documents, and accounting procedures and practices of
the State and the City relevant to this Agreement are subject to
examination by the State and the City, and either the legislative
auditor or the state auditor as appropriate, for a minimum of six
years from final payment.
Section D. Claims
Each party is responsible for its own employees for any claims
arising under the Workers Compensation Act. Each party is
responsible for its own acts, omissions and the results thereof to
the extent authorized by law and will not be responsible for the acts
and omissions of others and the results thereof. Liability of the
State is governed by Minnesota Statutes Section 3.736 and other
applicable law. Liability of the City is governed by Minnesota
Statutes chapter 466 and other applicable law.
Section E Nondiscrimination
The provisions of Minnesota Statutes Section 181.59 and of any -
applicable law relating to civil rights and discrimination shall be
considered part of this Agreement as if fully set forth herein.
Section F. Agreement Approval
Before this Agreement shall become binding and effective, it shall be
approved by a City Council resolution and receive approval of State
and City officers as the law may provide in addition to the
Commissioner of Transportation or his authorized representative.
7
45
80733
L- � • Y�•�_ "� • _�i!
The State's Authorized Agent for the purpose of the administration of
this Agreement is Maryanne Kelly-Sonnek, Municipal Agreements
Engineer, or her successor. Her current address and phone number are
395 John Ireland Boulevard, Mailstop 682, St. Paul, Minnesota 55155,
(651) 296-0969.
The City's Authorized Agent for the purpose of the administration of
this Agreement is John F1ora, Director of Public Works, or his
successor. His current address and phone number are 6431 University
Avenue NE, Fridley, Minnesota 55432-4303, (763) 571-3450.
.��
80733
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF the parties have executed this Agreement by their
authorized officers.
STATE ENCUMBRANCE VERIFICATION
Zndividual certifies that funds have been encumbered
as required by Minn. Stat. �� 16A.15 and 16C.05.
By
Date
MAPS Encumbrance No.
CITY OF FRIDLEY
By
Date
By —
Title
Date
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Recommended for approval:
By
Division Enqineer
Approved:
By
State Desiqn Engineer
Date
COMMISSIONER OF ADMINISTR.ATION
As deleqated to Materials Manaqement Division
Mayor
BY
Date
OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL
Approved as to form and execution:
By
Date
00000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000
This Agreement was acknowledged before me this day of , 2000,
by and ,
(Name) (Name)
the Mayor and of the City of Fridley.
(Title)
Notary Public
My Commission Expires
9
47
,
�����4
1� �,,,t�'
,�,5
� AGENDA ITEM
` COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 25, 2000
C(iY OF
FRIDLEY
APPOINTMENT TO COMMISSION
Environmental Quality and Energy Commission
Term Expires: 4/01 /01
►, �
� AGENDA ITEM
� COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 25, 2000
CRY OF
FRIDLEY
CLAIMS
9v3�4 - 95698
..
�
�
CITY OF
FRIDLEY
AGENDA ITEM
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 25, 2000
Type of License:
�
LICENSES
MOTOR VEHICLE BODY REPAIR
City Auto Collision Jeremy Peterson
6501 East River Road
Fridley, MN 55432
TOBACCO SALES
KJ's Grill and Bar
8298 University Avenue NE
Fridley, MN 55432
GAS SERVICES
North Suburban Heating & Air
19066 Jasper NW
Anoka MN 55303
Kenneth Steies
Daniel Larson
GENERAL CONTRACTOR-COMMERCIAL
Sheehy Construction
360 W Larpenteur
St Paul MN 55164 David Weinzetl
GENERAL CONTRACTOR-RESIDENTIAL
Skyway Quality Homes Inc (3005)
8025 Ga�eld St NE
Spring Lake Park MN 55432 Robert Shimanski
2 Hands LTD (20095303)
4601 Excelsior Blvd
St Louis Park MN 55416
HEATING
Metro Sheet Metal
1708 Gervais Ave
Maplewood MN 55109
Pam Lazor
Michael Dobihal
Modern Heating & Air Conditioning
2318 1 Street NE
Minneapolis MN 55418 Thomas Dowzak
North Suburban Heating & Air
19066 Jasper NW
Anoka MN 55303 Daniel Larson
50
Approved By:
Police Department
Fire Department
Community Development
Police Department
Fire Department
Community Development
RON JULKOWSKI
Building Official
RON JULKOWSKI
Building Official
STATE OF MINN
Same
RON JULKOWSKI
Building Official
Same
Same
Fees:
$125.00
$125.00
LICENSES (CONTINUED):
Type of License•
PLUMBING
Coppin Sewer 8� Water
5089 Shoreline Dr
Mound MN 55364
Larson Mike Plumbing Inc
3402 Library Lane
St Louis Park MN 55426
�
Lance Coppin
Mike Larson
51
Approved By:
STATE OF MINN
Same
Fees:
�
�
CRY OF
FRIDLEY
AGENDA ITEM
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 25, 2000
ESTIMATES
Park Construction Company
7900 Beech Street N.E.
Fridley, MN 55432
TH47 West Ditch Improvement
Project No. ST. 2000 — 6
FINAL ESTIMATE : ..............
W.B. Miller, Inc.
6701 Norris Lake Road N. W.
Elk River, MN 55330
Rice Creek Bank Stabilization, Phase II
Project No. 333
FINAL ESTIMATE : ..........................,
W.B. Miller, Inc.
6701 Norris Lake Road N.W.
Elk River, MN 55330
...................................... $18,475.54
.:......................................... $ 3,527.13
2000 Street Improvement Project No. ST. 2000-1
EstimateNo. 6 ...................................................................................... $41,295.08
Carl J. Newquist, Esq.
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 June, 2000 .............................................................. $19,340.00
52
CITY OF FRIDLEY
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
ENGINEERING DMSION
6431 University Avenue N.E.
Fridley, Minnesota 55432
Honorable Mayor and City Council
City of Fridley
c/o William W. Burns, City Manager
6431 University Avenue N.E. �
Fridley, MN 55432
Council Members:
September 25, 2000
CERTIFICATE OF THE ENGINEER
We hereby submit the Final Estimate for TH 47 West Ditch ImprovementProject No. ST. 2000 - 6, for
Park Constrnction Company, 7900 Beech Street, Fridley, MN 55432 .
We have viewed the work under contract for the construcrion of TH 47 West Ditch Improvement Project
No. ST. 2000 - 6 and find that the same is substantially complete in accordance with the contract
documents. I recommend that final payment be made upon acceptance of the work by your Honorable
Body and that the one year contractual maintenance bond commence on September 22, 2000.
Respectfully submitted,
�'''Gr^
John G. Flora
Director of Public Works
JT:cz
Prepared by
Checked by
53
September 25, 2000
To: Public Works Director
City of Fridley
REPORT ON FINAL INSPECTION FOR
CITY OF FRIDLEY
TH 47 WEST DITCH Il1�IPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. ST. 2000 - 6
We, the undersigned, have inspected the above-mentioned project and find that the work required by the
contract is substantially complete in confornuty with the plans and specifications of the project.
All deficiencies have been corrected by the contractor. Also, the work for which the City feels the
contractor should receive a reduced price has been agreed upon by the contractor.
So, therefore, we recommend to you that the City approve the attached FINAL ESTIlI�IATE for the
contractor and the one-year maintenance bond, starting from the day of the final inspection that being
September 22. 2000.
�.._
ompson, Construc n Inspector
P��
Contra tor Representative, (Title)
54
September 25, 2000
City of Fridley
TH 47 West Ditch Improvement Project No. ST. 2000 - 6
CERTIFICATE OF CONTRACTOR
This is to certify that items of the work shown in the statement of work certified herein have beenactually
fumished and done for the above-mentioned projects in accordance with the plans and specifications
heretofore approved. The final contract cost is $101,42835 and the final payment of $18,475.54 for the
improvement project would cover in full, the contractor's claims against the City for all labor, materials
and other work down by the contractor under this project.
I declare under the penalties of perjury that this statement is just and correct.
Park Constrnction Company
Robert J elmen, Project Coordinator
.�+�
September 25, 2000
City of Fridley
TH 47 West Ditch Improvement Project No. ST. 2000 - 6
PREVAILING WAGE VERIFICATION
This is to certify that Park Construction Company has abided by the Prevailing Wage Provisions as
specified by the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry for Anoka County.
I declare under the penalries of perjury that this statement is just and correct.
Park Constrnction Company
Robert J. Uelm, , Project Coordinator
56
FROM: City of Fridley
Engineering Division
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
City of Fridley
6431 University Ave, NE
Fridley, MN 55432
Dated: September 25, 2000
CITY OF FRIDLEY
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
8431 UNNERSITY AVENUE N.E.
FRIDLEY, MINNESOTA 55432
Estimate No. FINAL
Period Ending: September 22, 2000
For: Park Constrvction Company
7900 Beech Street NE
Fridley MN 55432
TH 47 WEST DITCH IMPROVEMENT
PROJECT NO. ST. 2000 - 6
Job Code: 559-0000-415-4530-2008
STATEMENT OF WORK
;X' f
��k.
a. S� +� ' { = �� J.
..��y�, >�....�•
``:�.ti"�'. =:.dP�7j �
Mobilization and traffic control 1 LS 3,400.00 0.00 0.00 1.00 3,400.00
Common excavation 930 CY 5.30 0.00 0.00 930.00 4,929.00
Granular Borrow 3,000 CY 3.50 2,176.00 7,616.00 2,848.00 9,968.00
Granular Borrow (LV) (City Provide) 6,690 CY 4.00 1,000.00 4,000.00 6,892.00 27,568.00
Topsoil BoROw (LV) 1,430 CY 3.00 267.00 801.00 267.00 801.00
Fumish and install 24" HDPE or CMP 1 Each 350.00 0.00 0.00 1.00 350.00
flared end section
install 36" HDPE dual-wall pipe 1,166 LF 12.50 0.00 0.00 1,065.00 13,312.50
Install 24" HDPE dual-wall pipe 1,157 LF 12.25 0.00 0.00 1,181.00 14,467.25
Install 18" HDPE dual-wall pipe S LF 80.00 0.00 0.00 8.60 640.00
install 15" HDPE dual-wall pipe 9 LF 72.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Install 12" HDPE dual-wall pipe 10 LF 65.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Construct catch basin manhole 7 Each 1,300.00 0.00 0.00 10.00 13,000.00
Fumish and install casting assembiy 7 Each 375.00 0.00 0.00 10.00 3,750.00
Hydroseeding -�MnDOT mix 400 12,880 SY 0.10 16,926.00 1,692.60 16,926.00 1,692.60
Pond im rovement radin /restoration 1 LS 7,550.00 0.00 0.00 1.00 7,550.00
SUBTOTAL
TOTAL
SUMMARY
Original Contract Amount
Contract additions: CO 1
Contract deductions:
Revised contract amount
Value Completed To Date
Amount Retained (0%)
Less Amount Paid Previously
AMOUNT DUE THIS ESTIMATE
$ 93.928.25
$ 7,550.00
$101,478.25
$101,428.35
$ -
$ 82,952.81
$ 18,475.54
57
$14,109.60
$101,428.35
Park Construction Company
Estimate No. FINAL
Page 2
CERTIFICATE OF THE CONTRACTOR
i hereby cer6fy that the wo�lc performed and the materials supplied to date unde� the terms of the contract
for this project, and all authorized changes thereto, have an actual value under the contract of the amounts
shown on this estimate (and the final quantities on the final estimate are correct), and that this estimate is just
and coRect art of Amount Due This Estimate" has been received.
By
Contractors Auth rized Representative (Title)
CERTIFICATE OF THE ENGINEER
I hereby certify that I have prepared or examined this estimate, and that the contractor is entitled to payment
of this estimate under the contract for reference project.
CITY OF FRIDLEY, INSPECTOR
ey o-,�
Checked By
�../c.�--
:
Date � � �D
Respectfully Sub ' ed,
Jo . ora, P.E.
ub ' orks Director
CITY OF FRIDLEY
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
ENGINEERING DMSION
6431 University Avenue N.E.
Fridley, Minnesota 55432
Honorable Mayor and City Council
City of Fridley
c/o William W. Burns, City Manager
6431 University Avenue N.E. .
Fridley, MN 55432
Council Members:
September 25, 2000
CER'fIFICATE OF THE ENGINEER
We hereby submit the Final Estimate for Rice Creek Bank Stabilization Phase II Project No. 333, for
W. B. Miller Company, 6701 Norris Lake Rd, Elk River, MN 55330.
We have viewed the work under contract for the construction of Rice Creek Bank Stabilization Phase II
Project No. 333 and find that the same is substantially complete in accordance with the contract
documents. I recommend that final payment be made upon acceptance of the work by your Honorable
Body and that the one year contractual maintenance bond commence on September 25, 2000.
Respectfully submitted,
ohn G. Flora
Director of Public Works
JT':cz
Prepared by: �
Checked by: � �--
59
September 25, 2000
To: Public Works Director
City of Fridley
REPORT ON FINAL INSPECTION FOR
CITY OF FRIDLEY
RICE CREEK BANK STABILIZATION PHASE II PROJECT NO. 333
We, the undersigned, have inspected the above-mentioned project and find that the work required by the
contract is substantially complete in conformity with the plans and specifications of the project.
All deficiencies have been conected by the contractor. Also, the work for which the City feels the
contractor should receive a reduced price has been agreed upon by the contractor.
So, therefore, we recommend to you that the City approve the attached FINAL ESTIMATE for the
contractor and the one-year maintenance bond, starting from the day of the final inspeetion that being
September 22. 2000.
Cr'�'L
Jon Thompson, Construction spector
V ��
.
ontract r Representative, (Title)
•1
September 25, 2000
City of Fridley
Rice Creek Bank Stabilization Phase li Project No. 333
CERTIFICATE OF CONTRACTOR
This is to certify that items of the work shown in the statement of work certified herein have beenactually
fiunished and done for the above-mentioned projects in accordance with the plans and specifications
heretofore approved. The final contract cost is $70,542.70 and the final payment of $3,527.13 for the
improvement project would cover in full, the contractor's claims against the City for all labor, materials
and other work down by the contractor under this project.
I declare under the penalties of perjury that this statement is just and correct.
W. B. Miller Company
�
Greg olm, President
61
September 25, 2000
City of Fridley
Rice Creek Bank Stabilization Phase II Project No. 333
PREVAILING WAGE VERIFICATION
This is to certify that W. B. Miller Company has abided by the Prevailing Wage Provisions as specified
by the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry for Anoka County.
I declare under the penalties of perjury that this statement is just and conect.
W. B. Miller Company
Grego olm, President
62
CITY OF FRIDLEY
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
. 6431 UNIVERSITY AVENUE N.E.
FRIDLEY, MINNESOTA 55432
FROM: City of Fridley
Engineering Division
TO: Honorabie Mayor and City Council
City of Fridley
6431 University Ave, NE
Fridley, MN 55432
Dated: September 25, 2000
Estimate No. Ffnal
Period Ending: September 22. 2000
For. W. B. Miiler Company
6701 Norris Lake Rd NW
Eik River MN 55330
RICE CREEK BANK STABILIZATION PHASE 11
PROJECT NO. 333
Job Code: 603-6000-415-4530-6044
STATEMENT OF WORK
�r. n. F ^° - We`� �t � �.�.:,:•��-,�'--':':y
1 "r ` � . ir`4'�;if, r�o� � .� .r
+c ?S.� �+�.� "��t' ..-.�tt.'. �. - .s..
., �."?!' , � 4+. ,�7"
�
iI � �.
.
_ _ .
.. ,�s -a..- . -. ^!F . ., ... . ;. r . .• . ; ..yi
.. w y �
;1rr�i ,� �:0
Mobilization 1.00 LS 5,675.00 0.00 0.00 1.00 5,675.00
Common Excavation and Embankment 500.00 CY 10.30 0.00 0.00 350.00 3,605.00
Common BoROw - from City pile at 50.00 CY 6.20 0.00 0.00 636.00 3,943.20
73rd Ave & University Ave
Remove Trees - Dispose on Site 20.00 Each 155.00 0.00 0.00 20.00 3,100.00
Fumish and Install 21 in. CMP Flared 1.00 Each 105.00 0.00 0.00 1.00 105.00
End
Random Rip-Rap, Class V 750.00 CY 53.50 0.00 0.00 906.00 48,471.00
Grouted Rip-Rap 20.00 CY 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
Geotextile Filter Fabric, Type IV 1,900.00 SY 1.25 0.00 0.00 2,250.00 2,812.50
Seeding - Including seed mix 600, Type 1.00 Acre 1,900.00 0.00 0.00 0.60 1,140.00
1 mulch material & commercial
fertilizer analysis 10-10-10
Fumish 8� instali 21" CMP 1.00 LS 547.00 0.00 0.00 1.00 547•00
Jute fiber blanket 880.00 SY 1.30 0.00 0.00 880.00 1,144.00
$0.00
TOTAL
Original Contract Amount
Contract additions: CO #1
Contract deductions:
Revised contract amount
Value Completed To Date
Amount Retained (0%)
Less Amount Paid Previously
AMOUNT DUE THIS ESTIMATE
561,840.00
8,702.70
70,542.70
70,542.70
0.00
67,015.57
___���
$70,542. i0
Miller Company
'mate No. Finai
rPage 2
CERTIFICATE OF THE CONTRACTOR
i hereby certify that the woric performed and the materials suppiied to date under the terms of the contract
for this project, and all authorized changes thereto, have an actual value under the contract of the amounts
shown on this estimate (and the finai quantities on the final estimate are correct), and that this esUmate is just
and coRect and no part of the "Amount Due This Estimate" has been received.
By t �
Contractor Authori d Representative (TiUe)
CERTIFICA _OF THE ENGINEER
I hereby certify that i have prepared or examined this estimate, and that the contractor is entitled to payment
of this estimate under the contract for reference project.
CITY OF FRIDLEY� INSPECTOR
By .
�
Checked By
• '
Date
Respe ly Submitted,
��
ohn G. Flora, P.E.
Public Works Director
�
�
CRY OF
FRIDLEY
TO:
FROM:
AGENDA ITEM
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 25, 2000
WILLIAM W. BURNS, CITY MANAGER ��
�
WILLIAM A. CHAMPA, MANAGEMENT ASSISTANT
SUBJECT: PUBLIC HEARING TO EVALUATE THE CABLE SYSTEM FRANCHISE
PROPOSAL SUBMITTED BY WIDEOPENWEST MINNESOTA, LLC
DATE: SEPTEMBER 22, 2000
Attached is a public hearing notice that establishes September 25 as the Council meeting to
evaluate the cable system franchise proposal submitted by WdeOpenWest (WOV�
Minnesota, LLC. A copy of the proposed franchise ordinance is also enclosed in your
packet for review.
Minnesota State law mandates the City to require a franchise for any cable communications
system providing service within the City. Currently, the City of Fridley has one cable
television operator holding a non-exc/usive franchise. Furthermore, federal law provides
that a city "may not unreasonably refuse to award an additional competitive franchise." To
determine the merits of any competitive franchise, we must analyze the applicant's legal,
technical and financial qualifications.
Level Playing Field
Federal and State law also require that the contents of any new franchise be substantially
the same as the franchise ordinance of the incumbent cable television operator (Nortel
Cable Associates, L.P., doing business as Time Warner Cable). This is to ensure a"level
playing field" among competitors.
Process
Several months ago, City staff began meeting with representatives from WOW to discuss
the application process for a cable utility franchise. Minnesota Statutes, Section 238, and
City Charter, Chapter 10, provide the legal basis for accepting and evaluating cable
franchises. Our process has worked like this:
1. In late March 2000, a letter requesting a cable franchise was received by the City from
WideOpenWest.
2. A"Notice of Intent to Franchise" was published twice in our official newspaper (Focus
News) in July. Notice was also mailed directly to the current cable operator.
65
Cable System Franchise Proposal
September 22, 2000
Page Two
3. The ciosing date for applications was August 14, 2000.
4. The Notice of Intent to Franchise referred applicants to finro additional documents: "Cable
Communications System Request for Proposals" and "Technical Specification
Memorandum A1-7/00" which provided further details about the application process.
5. A Public Hearing is held to evaluate the cable system franchise proposal submitted by
WOW.
6. With the September 25, 2000 public hearing, staff provides Council with a Summary of
Findings based on information included in WOW's application.
7. Once technical, legal and financial qualifications have been verified, negotiations on a
draft ordinance can begin.
Staff has analyzed the legal, technical and financial qualifications of WOW based on the
information provided in their application. A Summary of Findings is attached for your
review.
Staff has determined that WOW possesses the requisite technical, legal and financial
qualifications to construct, own and operate a cable communications system in Fridley.
In addition, input has been solicited from Fridley's cable commission and School District 14.
Ordinance Draft Summary (See copy in packet.)
An initial cable franchise ordinance has been developed. The most recent
recommendations appear in shading. Here are some of the highlights of the proposed
ordinance:
A 15-year franchise is recommended, however, additional language would tie the length of
the franchise to the completion of construction. If construction were completed within three
years of acceptance, a 15-year franchise would be granted. If construction were not
competed within three years, a ten-year franchise would be in effect.
Gross revenues would include revenues on all products and services offered in the City of
Fridley.
The minimum system would be constructed, operated and maintained to a minimum of 750
MHz. WOW has proposed an 860 MHz system.
Initial service area would include residential units in areas with an average density of at
least 40 units per cable mile.
Open access Internet service must be allowed.
A fiber optic institutional network, consisting of 12 upstream and 12 downstream channels,
would be constructed as part of WOW's system.
..
Cable System Franchise Proposal
September 22, 2000
Page Two
WOW must maintain, either solely, or jointly with any other franchise holder within Fridley
(and at the City's discretion), public access and local origination services in a manner
equitable to that of any other franchise holder. Discussion will continue with WOW and
Time Warner to develop fair language.
Additional language has been suggested by our Public Works Director regarding activity in
the public rights-of-way. This additional language would deal with all aspects of the
construction including permits, bonding and equipment. We need the City's Attorney to
review this language before it is inserted.
Currently, there is no language relating to "free" PEG service for residents. This is a benefit
offered by cities serviced by Media One. It allows residents to watch PEG channels (public
access, government channel, tocal origination, and educational access) without subscribing
to cable service. We mention it here for discussion purposes because in the past year, two
citizens have called and requested this service. This technology is available but would have
to be funded in some way (most likely by other cable customers).
Conclusion
Staff recommends that Council open the public hearing to evaluate WideOpenWest's
qualifications. Representatives from WOW will be available at the public hearing to
summarize their application and answer questions from Council and the public.
Staff also recommends that the public hearing be continued at the October 9, 2000 City
Council meeting. This will give City Attorney Fritz Knaak, who is out of the country, ampte
time to review the most recent franchise ordinance language.
67
PUBLIC HEARING
BEFORE THE
CITY COUNCIL
Notice is hereby given that there will be a public hearing of the Fridley City Council at
the Fridley Municipal Center, 6431 University Avenue 1VTE on Monday, September 25,
2000 at 7:30 p.m. for the purpose of:
Evaluating the cable system franchise proposal
submitted by WideOpenWest Minnesota, LLC
Hearing impaired persons planning to attend who need an interpreter or other persons
with disabilities who require auxiliary aids should contact Roberta Collins at 572-3500 no
later than September 21, 2000.
Nancy J. Jorgenson, Mayor
Publish: August 31, 2000 and September 7, 2000 (Focus News)
.:
Summary of Findings
The City of Fridley has review WideOpenWest's (WOV1n application for a cable system
franchise in Fridley and finds no legal reason to deny this request. WOW's technical,
legal and financial qualifications were analyzed using these sources:
• Financial qualifications were analyzed by the City of Fridley's auditors (an
independent company) using the information provided in the application.
• Technical qualifications were analyzed by the City's engineers.
• Legal qualifications were analyzed by the City's attorney.
• Application facts were verified by the City of Bloomington, Minnesota. *
• Application facts were verified by the Northern Dakota County Cable
Commission. *
• Application facts were verified by the City of Irving, Texas."*
• Application facts were verified by the City of Lakewood, Colorado.**
*Bloomington and Northern Dakota County are in the process of reviewing and granting
a cable franchise to WOW. They expect approval later this fall.
**Irving, Texas approved a cable franchise for WOW in May 2000; Lakewood, Colorado
approved a cable franchise for WOW in August 2000.
�
�
�
CRY OF
FRIDLEY
AGENDA ITEM
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 25, 2000
Date: 9/21 /00
To: William W
Burns, City Manager � �`
�
From: Barbara Dacy, Community Development Director
RE: Resolution Regarding Advanced Corridor Plan, NCDA Northstar Commuter
Rail Project
RE UEST
There are several processes that the NCDA and the Minnesota Department of
Transportation must complete in order to initiate construction of the Northstar Commuter
RaIl project. One of these processes is called the "Advanced Corridor Plan" and is
mandated by state statute. The Planning Commission has no formal role by statute to
review the "advanced corridor plan", but because the plan indicates a potentiai general
layout to the station, staff developed a list of recommended issues for the Commission to
consider at their September 6, 2000 Planning Commission meeting. The other item the
Commission discussed was the proposed "station area plan" to be included in the City's
updated Comprehensive Plan. The Council will be discussing that issue later in
Monday's agenda.
STATE STATUTE REQUIREMENTS
The City Council must act on the Advanced Comdor Plan by October 23, 2000. The
statute requires action by the Council within 45 days after the public hearing that was
conducted by the NCDA on September 7, 2000.
The Advanced Comdor Plan represents a design level of about 10% of the project. At
the Planning Commission meeting, Mark Koegler accurately suggested that the title is a
bit of a misnomer. Nonetheless, the statute requues cities to take action within a
specified timeframe.
The statute is also specific as to the options available to cities. To quote:
Within 45 days of the hearing, a city or town shall approve or disapprove the location and
design of the station to be located in the City or town. A city or town that disapproves
shall describe specific amendments to the plan that, if adopted, would cause the city or
town to withdraw its disapproval. Failure to comment in writing within 45 days after the
7�
hearing is deemed to be accepted unless an extension of time is agreed to by the
metropolitan planning organization and the commissioner of transportation.
Subdivision 3 in the statute tlien states:
After the hearing under subdivision 1, and the after the receipt of comment under
subdivision 2, the commissioner may modify the advanced corridor plan.
The NCDA, subsequent to the City of Fridley's comments, initiated and adopted a
process which would create a third option to "approve the Advanced Corridor Plan with
conditions". In addition, the NCDA has agreed to "officially" respond to the City's
comments within 45 days of the action by the City Council, prior to forwarding the City's
action on to the Commissioner of Transportation.
PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
The Planning Coinmission recommended to the City Council adoption of the staff
comments plus additional issues that were identified during the public hearing. A
summary of those comments can be found at the end of this memo. Also, in that same
summary, in bold print, is the current status of the NCDA response.
NCDA RESPONSE
After the Planning Commission meeting on September 6, 2000, City staff inet with
NCDA staff regarding the comments from the hearing. The NCDA has submitted a draft
revised plan to address some of the traffic and layout issues identified by the staff and
Planning Commission. A copy of the revised site plan is in the Council packet. Staff
finds that the revised plan begins to address items 1 through 6 and item 9 of the attached
commendresponse sheet. The revised site plan however needs to have public comment,
and there items that are still under review by City Staff.
There are still unanswered questions pertaining to the rail crossing issue (#10), impacts to
the school busses from Stevenson (#11), and train whistle/noise issue (#14 and #16).
NCDA staff indicated that they might be able to address the remaining issues at Monday
night's meeting. Further, the revised plan should be reviewed at the meeting on
September 25, 2000 and comment taken to determine the neighborhood reaction.
RECOMMENDATION
A draft resolution has not been prepared for consideration by the Council regarding the
Advanced Corridor Plan. Staff cannot recommend action on a resolurion as of the
writing of this memo unril some of the issues idenrified above aze addressed on Monday
night, and after hearing public comment on the revised plan. The Council should table
action on the item to October 9, 2000.
BD/bd
71
RESPONSES TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION AND STAFF COMMENTS
REGARDING ADVANCED CORRIDOR PLAN 9-21-00
1. Traffic impacts from the park and ride site on the east side of the tracks needs to be
better addressed, and further investigation is warranted to address the following:
a. Invesrigate the reduction of parking on the east side that is within a residential
area versus the west side that is located in an industrial or transition area.
b. Invesrigate sepazating the pazk and ride site on the east side from the
neighborhood by pushing the park and ride lot further south in the site.
c. Investigate different access modifications to deter tra�c from cutting through the
neighborhood including relocating driveways, restricted turning movements,
installing appropriate signage (i.e. "No Through Traffic" sign), or creation of
medians or other traffic calming improvements.
d The access driveway to the east park and ride lot should be shared with the
remaining parceL
The revised site plan reduces the amount of parking on the east side from 445 to 330. A 4-
acre parcel is created between the park and ride site and 61'` Avenue. On the west side, the
parking area is increased from 250 spaces to 355 spaces. Access to 615` Way via Ashton
Avenue is maintained. Two areas of vegetative buffer areas are proposed to screen
immediately adjacent residential properries. The pedestrian underpass will be accessed by
a"switchback" ramp on both sides providing a better entrance to the underpass.
Additional issues which City staff requested NCDA to analyze are:
• Make the southerly driveway on the east side a"right turn only" across from 60`n
Avenue
• The Ashton Avenue connection through the parking areas on the west side should
be established as a public right of way; further analysis on the design spec�cs is
needed
• City staff is analyzing the depth of the storm sewer connection at 61 s` Avenue and
Main Street to enable connection at this point versus piping the storm water under
the tracks
2. The property dimensions of the site on the east side are not accurate and should
reflect the land area immediately west of the Parson's Electric building.
Revised plan addressed this issue.
3. The storm water management system should address the following comments:
a. Underground ponding and treatments systems should be considered, especially
for the west side of the railroad tracks.
b. The pond on the east side should be relocated away from 61 S` Avenue and either
located near the remaining developable parcel or located to the extreme
southwest part of the parcel.
c. A storm sewer system will have to be installed such that piping will have to
extend from the new pond location to the southwest corner of the intersection at
61S` Avenue and Main Street.
The revised plan addresses this issue with the exception noted above regarding the direction
of the storm water.
72
4. The park and ride faciliries should be designed in accordance with typical pazking
and landscaping requirements found in the City's commercial and industrial zoning
districts.
The NCDA has indicated that they will comply. The comment should still be included in the
City's comments on the Advanced Corridor Plan.
5. NCDA must plat the property prior to installation of improvements.
The NCDA has indicated that they would comply. Given the redesign on the west side,
street and easement vacations will also be needed.
6. On the west side of the tracks, consider increasing the amount parking, while
maintaining the Ashton Avenue street connecrion to 61s1 Way. Further, consider the
creation of "open space"/"trail stop resting" areas where the trail connects to the
station area.
The revised site plan addresses this item. The inclusion of the vegetative buffer on the west
side could be designed to address the open space issue.
7. In order to address safety concerns, the NCDA should consider locating the "central
control facility"/security building for the Northstar system on the east park and ride
lot. Further, the building should be built large enoujh for another user that would
provide a neighborhood/commuter customer service.
NCDA indicated at the Planning Commission meeting that this issue is still under analysis.
8. A pedestrian underpass connecting the two sites is essential. The City would prefer a
facility however that is accessible 24 hours and contains a ramp undemeath the tracks
for bicyclists and pedestrians.
The revision of the underpass design to include a"switch back" ramp provides a more
amenable transition into the underpass versus an elevator. The 24-hour issue will be a
policy issue for the operator. A response at this point in time is not possible.
9. Provide pedestrian/bikeway connections to all existing facilities.
The revised site plan provides for pedestrian connections on Main Street, 61'` Avenue, and
61S` Way. A sidewalk on Main Street was not included in the original plan, and city staff
sees that addition as a positive improvement.
10. Identify the impacts of the frequency of the commuter rail line at other at grade
crossings in Fridley, specifically at Osbome, 85`h Avenue and 77`h Way. How long
will it take to clear the crossing? Will the queuing at the crossing during moming
and aftemoon peak hours cause a back up to East River Road, since it is a short
distance from the crossing to the East River Road intersecrion? How will the
frequency of the commuter rail effect the operarion of the Fire Station at the comer of
77`n Way and East River Road? How long would it block traffic?
NCDA needs to respond.
11. Identify the potential tra�c conflicts on the west side of the station with the timing of
the arrival and deparhzre of the school busses at the Stevenson Elementary School.
NCDA needs to respond.
12. Who will maintain the station property? Please address how maintenance concerns
about the station site will be handled (i.e. litter, grass, lighting issues, etc.).
NCDA indicated that MnDOT would maintain the station facility. City staff noted that the
property would have to meet exterior maintenance codes just like other properties in the
City.
OTHER QUESTIONS/COMMENTS SINCE PLANNL�G COMMISSION MEETING:
13. Will MCTO store busses at the station site?
NCDA stated that there would be no busses stored overnight.
73
14. Will the whistles/horns have to be sounded when the commuter rail is not in
operation?
NCDA needs to respond.
15. Will the station site be considered "federal" property, even if the State or the NCDA
would own and maintain it? Would UBC building code regulations apply? Will the
station site be considered "railroad" property and therefore subject to certain
regularions that would prohibit local control?
NCDA staff indicated that it would not be federal property and not railroad property.
16. Please review letter and material from John ivers regarding definition of grade
crossing and the necessity of blowing the whistle.
NCDA needs to respond.
M-00-155
74
/ AGENDA ITEM
� CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 25, 2000
CRY OF
FRIDLEY
Date: 9/21 /00 /�/
� �o
To: William W. Burns, City Manager �(
From: Barbara Dacy, Community Development Director
RE: Resolution Authorizing Comprehensive Plan Amendment to include a
"Station Area Plan" regarding the proposed NCDA Commuter Rail Station
(CPA #00-01)
RE UEST
The Comprehensive Plan Amendment application has been iniriated by the City of
Fridley in response to the proposal by the Northstar Corridor Development Authority (the
NCDA) to locate a commuter rail station in Fridley. The purpose of the plan amendment
process is to consider the elements of a"station area plan" at the location proposed by the
NCDA, and to recommend basic "principles" or guidelines to be included in the City's
updated Comprehensive Plan. While preparing the "station area plan" for review by the
Planning Commission, staff also prepared the attached report that evaluates the "bigger
picture". The report analyzes whether the commuter rail project itself is a benefit to the
community, and second, the reports analyzes whether having a station within the City is
appropriate. Also attached is the proposed "station area plan" language which would be
included in the Comprehensive Plan.
FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATION
The conclusion of the staff analysis is as follows:
1. There are short term and long-term benefits to the City by supporting and
encouraging the use of the commuter rail system.
2. The City should support having a station in Fridley.
3. The 615` Avenue/6151 Way location is an appropriate location; however, the
NCDA should investigate the suggestions cited by staff and the Planning
Commission to address compatibility concerns of the neighborhood.
The Planning Commission concurred with the findings of staff regarding the location of a
commuter rail starion site in Fridley, and recommended that the City Council consider the
draft Station Area Plan attached for inclusion into the City's Comprehensive Plan. A
75
resolution is attached for Council adoption. Further, the Planning Commission
recommended to the Council that staff develop an overlay or special zoning district to
guide development in and around the station area.
f:�i7L��
M-00-156
76
RESOLUTION NO. -2000
A RESOLUTION AMENDING THE TRANSPORTATION CHAPTER OF THE COMPREHENSIVE
PLAN REGARDING A STATION AREA PLAN FOR THE NCDA COMMUTER RAIL STATION
SITE
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Land Planning Act (Minn. Stat. 473.851 through 473.872, as amended)
requires local government units to prepare and submit plan amendment applications to the
Metropolitan Council, when changing the City's Comprehensive Plan; and
WHEREAS, the City of Fridley initiated a plan amendment application as filed as CPA #00-01 in the
City offices; and
WHEREAS, the City determined that it was necessary to promulgate the plan amendment to
establish appropriate planning principles for issues within the station area around the proposed
NCDA Commuter Rail station site; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a public hearing on the Comprehensive Plan
Amendment #00-01, on September 6, 2000; and
WHEREAS, the plan amendment language will be included in the new draft of the Comprehensive
Plan; and
WHEREAS, the proposed draft of the Comprehensive Plan is under review by the Metropolitan
Council.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Fridley hereby approves
the Comprehensive Plan Amendment, CPA #00-01, as found on file in the City offices.
PASSED AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FRIDLEY THIS 25T" DAY
OF SEPTEMBER, 2000.
ATTEST:
DEBRA SKOGEN, CITY CLERK
NANCY J. JORGENSON - MAYOR
77
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT
#00-01
PURPOSE OF PLAN AMENDMENT
The Comprehensive Plan Amendment application has been initiated by the City of
Fridley in response to the proposal by the Northstar Corridor Development Authority
(the NCDA) to locate a commuter rail station in Fridley. The "Northstar" project is a
commuter rail service from St. Cloud to Minneapolis, with about 12 stations strategically
located along the route. The purpose of the plan amendment process is to consider the
elements of a"station area plan" at the location proposed by the NCDA. In completing
this analysis, however, it is necessary to consider whether the commuter rail project
itself is a benefit to the community, and therefore, it is also necessary to consider
whether having a station within the City is appropriate.
There are several other processes that the NCDA and the Minnesota Department of
Transportation must complete in order to initiate the project. One of these processes is
called the "Advanced Corridor Plan" and is mandated by state statute. The Planning
Commission has no formal role to review the "advanced corridor plan", but because the
plan indicates a potential general layout to the station, staff has developed a list of
recommended issues for the Commission to consider for recommendation to the City
Council. The City Council must act on the Advanced Corridor Plan by October 23,
2000.
BACKGROUND
An informational meeting was held on August 2, 2000 and residents and businesses
were invited to attend. The mailing list included properties located with'/2 mile of the
proposed station. Transportation planners typically consider this radius as the "station
area". About 75 residents attended.
A demonstration ride was conducted on August 10, 2000. About 50 people from
Fridley, business people and residents attended.
HOW DOES FRIDLEY RELATE TO NEIGHBORING "STATIONS"?
The major destination of the commuter rail line is downtown Minneapolis. The terminus
is proposed at a site just north of the Target Center. About five trains will be headed
southbound in the morning, with three trains traveling northbound for the "reverse-
commute" (6:10 am through about 8:10 am). In the afternoon, the pattern is reversed,
and there is one train in each direction over the noon hour. To the north of Fridley, the
closest station is a site at Foley Boulevard where a park and ride facility currently exists
for express busses. The stations are strategically placed along the corridor to provide
adequate access to the system and are spaced far enough apart to allow for the train to
:
reach optimum commuting speeds. The proposed Fridley station is about 5 to 6 miles
from the downtown location and 4.5 miles from the Foley Blvd. station.
HOW DOES COMMUTER RAIL FIT INTO THE CITY'S FUTURE?
The City is cur�ently finishing the final draft of the 2020 Comprehensive Plan. The plan
contains a Transportation Chapter that describes existing conditions of roadways and
other transportation modes and recommends certain goals and objectives to accomplish
in the next 20 years. How does commuter rail fit into the plan? Is commuter rail an
opportunity for the City and what are the benefits? If commuter rail is an opportunity,
should the City approve a station site? If so, where should it be located?
Opportunity?
It is estimated that there are about 200,000 "average daily trips" (cars and trucks) on I-
694 (135,000), TH 65 (38,000), TH 47 (38,000), and East River Road (19,000) in total.
A small portion of that is truly attributable to traffic created from Fridley. A majority of it
is "through" traffic. Fridley sits geographically at the "spout" of the funnel of Anoka
County. The morning commute southbound is heavy and the afternoon commute is
also equally well traveled. This statistic does not include the trips on the major east
west roadways. With four major highways in the City, the impacts from traffic noise,
exhaust emissions, and truck traffic is well documented. The future traffic projections
portend more traffic totaling 275,000 ADT in the year 2020 on these four roadways; I-
694 (163,000); TH 65 (45,000); TH 47 (45,000); and East River Road (25,000).
It should also be remembered that the NCDA is a joint powers organization which is not
only pursuing the construction of the Northstar Commuter Rail project, but is also
organizing an effort to coordinate other transportation improvements (feeder bus and
existing highway improvements) in conjunction with the commuter rail system. It cannot
be forgotten that the growth in northern Anoka County, Sherburne, and Benton has
been one of the fastest in the country. It only takes a weekend trip to realize that
Highway 10 and I-94 are congested at peak hours (see printed enclosures from NCDA).
The current draft of the Transportation Chapter suggests that the TH 47 corridor should
be maintained in its current status as a four-lane expressway as opposed to enlarging it
to a 6-lane expressway. The plan also states: "Further, encouragement of transit
ridership and alternative travel modes should help relieve traffic congestion on TH 47".
Widening University Avenue would seriously alter the character and nature of the
neighborhoods. While a specific number of trips has not been identified by the NCDA
as to how many vehicles can be eliminated from going through Fridley, it stands to
reason, that the commuter rail service would help to hold back the rapid increase in
traffic through the community. Any additional increase in north south bus service would
also further that end.
The University Avenue right of way had been considered for a light rail route between
downtown Minneapolis and Northtown. Funding issues, among others, delayed
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implementation of the Northtown route. if commuter rail is pursued, and the NCDA
receives funding, it is unlikely that light rail will be constructed in the immediate future.
Increasing all forms of transit service is a focus of the plan. It suggests better east west
transit service, several new connections for the city's bikeway/walkway system, and
coordination and connections between commuter rail services, bus routes and major
employers.
The NCDA is proposing a pedestrian and bicycle underpass at 61 St Avenue underneath
the railroad tracks to connect two park and ride sites. The underpass represents a
significant connection between the park and trail systems on the west side of the tracks
(the Islands of Peace Park and bikeway) to the east side of the community. The
railroad is a significant safety and traffic barrier because a minimal amount of crossings
are permitted. NCDA construction of this facility also saves the City the expense of
completing it.
The proposed commuter rail service is intended to operate on the existing railroad
tracks, and construction of additional tracks is not necessary. The existing BNSF line is
major rail route and there are 40 to 70 trains/day with an average length of 85 cars and
3 locomotives/train. Operating the rail service on the existing tracks not only saves
public expense but also is an efficient use of existing resources.
The other benefits to having a station for the commuter rail system include:
� Provides residents and businesses an alternative to the automobi�e to travel
downtown or places of employment to the north ("reverse commute")
• Reduces vehicle trips, therefore resulting in lower emissions, which benefits
air quality
• Provides another mode of transportation which may reduce the necessity for
highway expansion
• Improved employee access to jobs
• Provides a competitive advantage over non-rail communities ---
• Businesses near stations realize tangible (customers) and intangible
(visibility) benefits
� Provides residents and businesses a means to connect to other
transportation systems, Hiawatha Light Rail System, the airport, and
ultimately to other commuter rail lines such as the Red Rock, Dan Patch, or
others
• Provides access to major facilities downtown and elsewhere on the corridor
such as St. Could State University
� Foley Blvd. Station provides access to Springbrook Nature Center
In sum, there are benefits to the community as a result of the commuter rail system.
The lack of a coordinated, significant regional transit system (either commuter rail, light
rail, or increased bus service) does not help Fridley reduce_or mitigate the impact of the
automobile on the quality of life in the City. Second, residents and employees who live
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and work in Fridley will not only have a reasonable alternative to commuting by
automobile, but also they will have access to a broader transpo�tation system, which in
the future (10 to 20 years) could ultimately prove to be very valuable.
What are the drawbacks to the svstem?
Are there negative aspects to the commuter rail service? The answer is twofold. The
NCDA must complete the federal and state required processes for environmental
impact studies in order to determine both the positive and negative impacts. The EIS is
currently underway and the draft EIS will be released sometime this fall, according to
NCDA officials. Additional hearings on the EIS will be conducted by the NCDA. As a
result of the EIS process, the NCDA must determine appropriate methods to "mitigate"
or reduce negative impacts.
Second, an analysis of the impact/relationship of individual station locations on
surrounding neighborhoods must also be completed. While the EIS process will
evaluate a range of issues pertaining to station sites, another overlapping process,
completed by the cities, is the "station area plan" which is the subject of this
amendment.
Station Area Plan
Should the Citv have a station in the communitv, and if so, where should it be located?
The City should take advantage of the benefits created by the commuter rail system
cited earlier and approve a station site within the City, but at the same time make sure it
is compatible to the surrounding neighborhood. The station site should be evaluated as
any other type of development to determine its viability and compatibility with the
surrounding area.
A station area is defined as the area around the station site within about'/2 mile. It is
well documented from other studies that many people will walk to the station site within
the'/2 mile radius. Some studies have shown that proximity to the station site is an
attractive asset to a property, especially for multi-family properties. It is not dissimilar to
the fact that many people like to live closer to a bus stop along University Avenue.
Conversely, it is documented that the amount and nature of "transit oriented" land uses
help to support the viability of the station site. More about this is discussed later.
The NCDA has undertaken an extensive site selection process for station locations, and
the result of that analysis is the proposed station site at 61 St Avenue and 61 St Way. One
of the criteria to select eligible sites was the availability of vacant land. Acquiring
existing fully developed properties is more expensive and disruptive in comparison with
acquiring and developing vacant land. There are three areas of vacant land along the
railroad tracks in Fridley. The first is the Nature Center and some vacant industrial land
near it. The second is the vacant parcels on 61 St Avenue and 61 St Way, the proposed
station site. The third is the land area owned by the US Navy near United Defense.
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The remaining land area is fully developed. The Nature Center site is simply too close
to Foley Blvd. The United Defense site was investigated first, but because the rail yards
in this location are extensive (20 to 30 set of tracks) and is very close to their major
switching terminal, BNSF rejected the location. The remaining site at 61StAvenue and
61 S� Way was the remaining choice, the track facilities are much smaller, about 4, and
are immediately adjacent to vacant land areas. Any site further to the north begins to
impinge on the service area of the Foley Blvd. Station.
The site is in close proximity to East River Road and University Avenue, existing bus
routes, and close to existing traffic signals. The proposed underpass creates the ability
to utilize both vacant land areas on either side of the tracks. Platforms on either side of
the tracks will be constructed to provide northbound and southbound service. The
concerns about having a station at this location were expressed by the neighboring
residents, especially from those on the east side of tracks. The concerns included
traffic, noise, impact on property values and security of the neighborhood. A summarv
of the written comments and the verbal questions and statements is attached.
The NCDA has obtained studies that indicate positive economic benefits as a result of
proximity to a station area. Studies in Boston and Philadelphia have apparently shown
6% increases in residential property values. In Fridley, it should be remembered
however that it is impossible to differentiate between the losses of value attributable to
commuter rail versus the Ioss to freight rail when the freight rail impacts exist already.
What is a station area plan, and what should it sav?
A station area plan sets out gUiding principles or goals for the various aspects of the
land area around the station site. It is suggested that the plan language, attached,
should be incorporated in the City's draft of the Comprehensive Plan, and also, the City
enact an "Overlay" District or "Special" District in its zoning ordinance to create specific
requirements for development in and around the proposed station site. Because most
of the land area around the site is developed, there would be no impact; however, if
remaining vacant land exists or redevelopment takes place (none planned at_this time!),
there would be specific rules for the City to use to evaluate development proposals.
Description of Proposed Station Site
The site totals about 12 to 14 acres and spans both sides of the railroad tracks. The
east side of the tracks would contain a 445-space parking lot with bus turn around and
drop off facilities. The west side includes a 252-space parking lot. Ashton Avenue
would no longer connect to 61 St Way, and would instead turn into 61 '/2 Way. Two
detention basins are proposed to handle runoff from the parking lots. Connections
would be made to existing sidewalks and trail systems. An underpass is proposed to
connect both sites and to provide access to either the north or southbound platforms.
About 2.5 acres would remain vacant on the east side and about acres would remain
vacant on the west side. While it is not certain if MnDOT or the NCDA would be
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responsible for owning and maintaining the facilities, the property occupied by the
station area would become tax-exempt.
The site on the east side is zoned M-4, Manufacturing Only, and the site on the west
side is zoned R-1, Single Family Residential.
ADVANCED CORRIDOR PLAN COMMENTS
At the August 2, 2000 informational meeting, the station area concept design was
presented as well as an extensive overview of the proposed commuter rail system. The
attached summary provides more detail, but there were two basic concerns about the
proposed layout. They are:
1. Why can't more spaces be provided on the west side of the tracks versus the
east side and therefore be less intrusive to the existing neighborhood?
2. What can be done to inhibit traffic shortcutting through the neighborhood
north of 61 St Avenue?
In response to these and other concerns, staff recommends the consideration of the
following comments to forward to NCDA regarding the Advanced Corridor Plan. The
Council, prior to forwarding to the NCDA, would review these comments:
1. Traffic impacts from the park and ride site on the east side of the tracks needs
to be better addressed, and further investigation is warranted to address the
following:
a. Investigate the reduction of parking on the east side that is within a
residential area versus the west side that is located in an industrial or
transition area.
2.
3.
b. Investigate separating the park and ride site on the east side from the
neighborhood by pushing the park and ride lot further south in the site.
c. lnvestigate different access modifications to deter traffic from cutting
through the neighborhood including relocating driveways, restricted
turning movements, installing appropriate signage (i.e. "No Through
Traffic" sign), or creation of inedians or other traffic calming
improvements.
d. The access driveway to the east park and ride lot should be shared with
the remaining parcel.
The property dimensions of the site on the east side are not accurate and
should reflect the land area immediately west of the Parson's Electric
building.
The storm water management system should address the following
comments
a. Underground ponding and treatments systems should be considered,
especially for the west side of the railroad tracks.
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b. The pond on the east side should be relocated away from 61 St Avenue and
either located near the remaining developable parcei or located to the
extreme southwest part of the parcel.
c. A storm sewer system will have to be installed such that piping will have to
extend from the new pond location to the southwest corner of the
intersection at 61 St Avenue and Main Street.
4. The park and ride facilities should be designed in accordance with typical
parking and landscaping requirements found in the City's commercial and
industrial zoning districts.
5. NCDA must plat the property prior to installation of improvements.
6. On the west side of the tracks, consider increasing the amount parking, whiie
maintaining the Ashton Avenue street connection to 615� Way. Further,
consider the creation of "open space"/"trail stop resting" areas where the trail
connects to the station area.
7. In order to address safety concerns, the NCDA should consider locating the
"central control facility"/security building for the Northstar system on the east
park and ride lot. Further, the building should be built large enough for
another user that would provide a neighborhood/commuter customer service.
8. A pedestrian underpass connecting the two sites is essential. The City would
prefer a facility however that is accessible 24 hours and contains a ramp
underneath the tracks for bicyclists and pedestrians.
9. Provide pedestrian/bikeway connections to all existing facilities.
FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATION
1. There are short term and long term benefits to the City by supporting and
encouraging the use of the commuter rail system.
2. The City should support having a station in Fridley.
3. The 61 St Avenue/61 S� Way location is an appropriate location; however, the
NCDA should investigate the suggestions cited above to address
compatibility concerns of the neighborhood.
Staff recommends the Planning Commission concur w�th the findings of staff regarding
the location of a commuter rail station site in Fridley, recommend that the City Council
consider the staff comments on the Advanced Corridor Plan, and recommend the
Council consider the draft Station Area Plan attached. Further, staff recommends the
Planning Commission recommend to the Council that staff develop an overlay or special
zoning district to guide development in and around the station area.
NEXT STEPS
The process will continue for several more months. In order for the Northstar service to
start in 2004, the following processes must be successfully completed:
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1. Complete Advanced Corridor Process; review by the Commissioner of
Transportation.
2. Completion of Environmental Impact Statement Process.
3. Completion of Preliminary Engineering.
4. Completion and award of funding from the Federal Transit Administration.
5. Completion of Final Engineering.
Once the City has completed its comments on the Advanced Corridor Plan, it is hoped
that the NCDA will contact the City with the information to address the concerns
regarding the station design. �
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STATION AREA PLAN
NORTHSTAR COMMUTER RAIL PROJECT
PROPOSED COMMUTER RAIL FACILITY
The proposed commuter rail station is located on both sides of the railroad tracks at 61 �
Avenue/61 � Way. The area under evaluation totals about 12 to 14 acres, with about 12
acres on the east side of the tracks and about 2 acres on the west side. A pedestrian
underpass below the railroad tracks would connect both sites. Based on NCDA 20 year
projections, a station in Fridley would require between 600 to 700 parking spaces in
addition to bus services and drop off facilities (known as "kiss and ride").
STATION AREA DESCRIPTION
A"station area" is typically defned as the area around a transit facility up to'/2 mile
around the station itself. Under this defnition, the station area extends from Mississippi
Street on the north, I-694 on the south, the Mississippi River on the west, and the
University Avenue comdor on the east. The'/z mile radius has been documented as a
rule of thumb for the distance that pedestrians would walk to a transit site. It is
worthwhile to analyze what exists within this area (land uses, streets, bikeways/walkways
etc.), and also to establish what principles or guidelines the City should use when
evaluating land use or other transportation issues within the station area.
The influence of the station, however, extends beyond the '/z mile radius. It is projected
that the Fridley station may draw from a broader area north of I-694 to Osborne Raad and
further east to western New Brighton.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
The area contains 280 acres, in which there are over 960 residential parcels and 68
commercial and industrial parcels. There are over 400 single-family units, several major
apartment complexes (Georgetown, Hyde Park, etc), and several larger size commercial
and industrial properties. The station site is located almost dead center within the range
of industrial properties along Main Street in the City. It is estimated that there may be as
many as 1600 employees in the'/z mile station area.
Within 1 mile of the station, there are several major employers. The new Medtronic
World Headquarters is under construction with a potential employee base of 4,000
people, the Great Northern Industrial Park is just south of I-694, and the United Defense
facility is just to the south of the Great Northern Industrial Park along East River Road.
About 23,000 employees come to Fridley each day. The exact percentage of employees
from the north who would use the proposed rail project is not known; however,
employers on Main Street have reported that there are sizable portions of their employee
base that live in northern communities like Anoka and Elk River.
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A majority of the existing property within the Station Area is fully developed. In
addition to the residential and industrial uses identified above, Stevenson Elementary is
located within the sta.tion area as well as several institutional uses like the Municipal
Offices, churches, park facilities, most notably the Mississippi River associated parks,
and a significant amount of commercial uses. The Cub Food and 57�' Avenue corridor
has recently been improved and redeveloped. The Columbia Park Medical facilities are
also within the station area. The I-694/University Avenue intersection is a major gateway
to the community and the City is evaluating redevelopment projects at that intersection.
PRINCIPLES OF STATION AREA PLANNING
It is well documented that a transit station can provide a service to a neighborhood, and
that the neighborhood can support a transit station. In order to accomplish efficient bus
services, a sufiicient amount of density needs to be achieved to make the bus system
worthwhile running. B.ecause the existing single-family densities in the station area are
about 4 units to the acre, and because apartment densities range from 4 to 15 units/acre, it
comes as no surprise that University Avenue supports a fairly successful express and
regular route service.
In the same manner, the commuter rail station site can provide a service to the immediate
'h mile area and what happens within the station area can also serve to bolster the rail
service. Further, what is not known about the impact of the commuter rail service is the
amount of "reverse commuters", those who work in cities to the north but live in Fridley.
Therefore, it is worthwhile to identify the overriding goals for land use, transportation,
and housing issues within the station area.
There are three typical principles to station area planning:
1. Mixed and compact land uses: Identify the appropriate land uses
that generate ridership, pedestrian activity and reduce dependence
on the automobile.
2. Enhanced Environment: Create a station environment that is
attractive and safe.
Supportive Access Patterns: Provide direct connections to the
station site for all modes of transportation while minimizing
intrusion on the existing neighborhoods
These principles certainly apply to the Fridley location; however, because the site is
bisected by the tracks, and the east portion of the faciliry is located more in the middle of
the neighborhood as opposed to the edge, another principle of "neighborhood
compatibility" is warranted. Another principle is suggested:
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4. Neighborhood Compatibility: Insure that new development or
redevelopment is compatible with the surrounding character of the
area while insuring that it supports the function of the station site.
Mixed and Compact Land Use:
There is the potential for new development on the east side of the railroad tracks. The
size of the area may in fact determine the land use. The City should evaluate new uses
against the following issues:
1. The appropriate density, if residential.
2. Consider mixed uses if possible where small retail services can be combined with
residential units.
3. Evaluate using the development to screen the visual impacts of the park and ride lot.
4. Evaluate incorporating NCDA facilities, the security/control center, into the
development.
5. Consider developments which satisfy neighborhood or community housing or
commercial needs.
6. Establish a new overlay or special zoning district to define the appropriate guidelines
and standards to control development or redevelopment around the station site.
Enhanced Station Neiahborltood Environment
In order to create a station that is safe and attractive, attention must be paid to a number
of factors. The park and ride lots tr�emselves must be designed so that they are well lit,
accessible, and maintained appropriately. Moreover, the City should consider the
following:
1. Establishing clear connections to existing sidewalks/bikeways. The connections
to the facilities along the Mississippi River offer an attractive resource. Further,
the east west system on 61 � Avenue connects to the remaining heart of the Fridley.
trail system.
2. Identify new pedestrian connections. For example, the Parks and Open Space
Chapter identified a need for a pedestrian/bikeway facility on the west side of
Main Street between 57�h Avenue and the station site.
3. Consider establishing decorative fencing to be consistent with other improvement
projects in the City.
4. Consider establishing informational improvements to direct visitors to trail
connections, significant points of interest to the Mississippi River, nearby
shopping areas, or major employee centers.
Supportive Access Pattern
The access pattern to the station site should be direct and safe. Automotive trafiic on the
east side should be kept as much as possible on 61 � Avenue and Main Street. The NCDA
. .
should establish as many measures as necessary to inhibit commuter traffic cutting
through the neighborhood. The Ciry may want to consider establish a traffic calming
program to encourage slower speeds and to direct traffic to the major collectors.
The city has an extensive existing pedestrian and bikeway system. 61 � Avenue has
sidewalks on both sides and 57�` Avenue was recently reconstructed with a sidewalk on
the south side. A new bikeway /walkway facility is now located paralleling the railroad
tracks on the west side, and there are facilities along East River Road. The City should
consider adding the following:
1. Establishing an off street facility on the west side of Main Street.
2. Expanding the sidewalk on the south side of 61 � Avenue.
3. Development design should provide for pedestrian and biking and create
supportive atmospheres for the facilities.
4. Prioritize access to the station site as follows:
• Pedestrian — bicyclist
• Bus
• Car
Establish program to coordinate employee van pooling or other service to access
employers in Fridley and Columbia Heights who may want to take advantage of
the reverse commute.
Nei�hborhood Compatibility
The station area is a well established network of existing neighborhoods. Prioritizing
transit usage over automotive use is the prefened hierarchy. It should be remembered
however that the station site should be adequately sized for some time to come for
anticipated traffic demand. Commuter rail parking within the neighborhoods would not
be tolerable. Therefore it is necessary that the station design and any development as a
result should be kept in scale and character of the neighborhood.
The existing zoning on the east side is M-4, Manufacturing Only. Prior to this zoning
district, the property was zoned M-2, Heavy Industrial. Distribution centers and other
uses requiring high amounts of truck traffic would have been permitted. The M-4 zoning
would still allow industrial uses, which may have a lot of truck traffic, but the use would
be limited to manufacturing. The park and ride facility certainly does not have the extent
of impacts that could have occurred with industrial uses including: outdoor chemical
storage (as now exists in the station area), high intensity lighting, potential for odors and
fumes associated with manufacturing processing, noise from truck traffic, visual impacts
of truckin� doors or outdoor storage, industrial fencing or screening, and outdoor
industrial activities such as rail spur loading and unloading. The park and ride site itself
is also limited in hours of operation to just the peak commuting times in the early
morning and late afternoons. This compares favorably with some industrial uses which
operate three shifts.
. .
Noise from the horns/whistles from the train is an impact. Federal law requires the
sounding of the horns for safety reasons where there is a potential of conflict between
trains. Residents have complained in the past and it remains a concern.
IMPLEMENTATION
The City should use the above four principles in evaluating any issues occurring within
the station area. Further, the City should create an overlay or special zoning district to
guide future development. Third, outside funding resources should be explored for any
pedestrian, bikeway, additional transit service, or traffic calming improvement which
may be determined as necessary for a successful station area.
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C(T'Y OF
FRIDLE7
AGENDA ITEM
CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF
SEPTEMBER 25, 2000
INFORMAL STATUS REPORT'S
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