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HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-24-2000 Council Minutes• ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR JANUARY 24, 2000 ROLL The Council met on the above mentioned date with the following members present: Mayor Gabriel Jabbour, Council Members Charles Kelley, Richard Flint, Bob Sansevere, and Barbara Peterson. Representing staff were City Administrator Ron Moorse, City Attorney Tom Barrett, Senior Planning Coordinator Michael Gaffron, Assistant Zoning Administrator Paul Weinberger, City Engineer Tom Kellogg, and Recorder Jackie Young. Mayor Jabbour called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m. CONSENT AGENDA 1. Approve/Amend Items 3, 5, 8, and 9 were added to the Consent Agenda. Kelley moved, Sansevere seconded, to approve the consent agenda as amended. • VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0. APPROVAL OF MINUTES *(2) Regular Council Meeting of January 10, 2000 Kelley moved, Sansevere seconded, to approve the minutes of the Regular City Council meeting of January 10, 2000, as submitted. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0. PARK COMMISSION COMMENTS None LAKE MINNETONKA CONSERVATION DISTRICT - LILI MCMILLAN, REPRESENTATIVE McMillan addressed the City Council regarding the LMCD's plans regarding boat traffic through the channel near Big Island. McMillan stated the LMCD will be placing 38 moderate -sized buoys containing no parking signs 50 feet apart outlining the channel. The LMCD will possibly be receiving some funding from the DNR to purchase the buoys. • Kelley expressed some concern that the local residents may utilize the buoys for Page 1 W %. ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR JANUARY 24, 2000 • (Lake Minnetonka Conservation District, Continued) purposes outside of the intent of the LMCD. Mayor Jabbour stated the City has been made aware of complaints regarding the boat traffic problems being experienced in the channel due to a large number of boats being docked in that area. McMillan stated several of the restaurants located on Lake Minnetonka have also been experiencing some problems resulting from the disorderly conduct on Big Island. McMillan stated the LMCD is also looking at a Planned Unit Development at Cochrane's Marina, with a redevelopment of the marina being proposed as well as construction of townhomes. McMillan stated the LMCD Code at this time does not really take into account PUD's and the different densities allowed by the cities located on the lake, which needs to be taken into consideration when redevelopment occurs along the lake. McMillan noted the LMCD will be discussing this issue further at their next meeting. Mayor Jabbour stated he has suggested to the LMCD in the past to adopt a conversion ordinance to help deal with redevelopment along Lake Minnetonka. Kelley expressed a concern that Orono appears to be losing marina space, with the • number of boat slips on the decline. Kelley stated he hopes the LMCD realizes the importance of the local marinas. Mayor Jabbour stated the LMCD's 100' dock rule makes the marinas nonconforming and allows for fewer docks. McMillan commented a number of the local marinas are located in residential areas, with improvements to the marinas being dictated more by the local economy. McMillan stated the LMCD needs to look at providing more dock space at the marinas. Mayor Jabbour stated the LMCD started licensing dry docks in approximately 1986, with a moratorium being established at that time. Jabbour commented in his view the LMCD should review the dry dock situation in the area as well. McMillan stated the LMCD has been approached by the Department of Agriculture to review the use of phosphorus in this area. The Department of Agriculture is recommending and encouraging the local nurseries to stock phosphorus -free fertilizer. McMillan stated it appears the Department of Agriculture is going to pursue legislation in this regard and is looking for support from the LMCD. McMillan reported the Minnehaha Power Squadron who has started a midde school boat education program which consists of a four week course. Upon completion of the course and passing of a test, the participants will become certified in operating watercraft. • Page 2 ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR JANUARY 24, 2000 • (Lake Minnetonka Conservation District, Continued) Kelley inquired whether people over the age of 17 need a permit to operate a boat on the lake. McMillan stated the course is designed for children age 12 to 17. According to state statutes, a permit is required or adult supervision for children under the age of 17 in order for them to legally operate a watercraft. McMillan stated people over the age of 18 do not at the present time need a permit to operate a watercraft. Mayor Jabbour stated the City is looking at pursuing licensing for people over 18 as well. PLANNING COMMISSION COMMENTS None PUBLIC COMMENTS Kart Rakos, 2175 Shevlin Drive, expressed concerns regarding the amount and speed of Lie traffic in the area of the Webber Hills Development and along Willow Drive. Rakos • stated the neighborhood is experiencing more young families, with the local residents becoming more aware of the safety concerns that exist for the young children in the area. Rakos inquired whether a three -way stop sign could possibly be installed at the intersection of Shevlin and Willow. Moorse stated he will have the Police Chief and City Engineer review this situation to arrive at the best possible solution. Mayor Jabbour stated the first step would be to have the Police Chief and City Engineer review this situation, followed by public input. Jabbour requested City Staff notify Rakos of the findings and recommendations of the Police Chief and City Engineer. Moorse stated the area will need to be looked at regarding how safety will be affected, whether the location is a logical place for a stopsign or stoplight, and whether stacking of cars will occur. Rakos inquired whether a children at play sign could be installed in the meantime to make the drivers in the area aware that young children are in the area. Moorse stated he is unsure what the criteria is for placement of a children at play sign. Rakos inquired whether a speed bump would be one possible option. Mayor Jabbour stated speed bumps tend to be dangerous and do not belong on public streets. Jabbour stated City Staff gill review this situation and report back to the City Page 3 ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR JANUARY 24, 2000 • (Public Comment, Continued) Council with their recommendation and findings. Kellogg stated they will need at least two weeks to review this situation. ZONING ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT *(3) #2450 GLEN AND SANDRA GRONBERG, 325 WILLOW DRIVE NORTH - EXTENSION OF PRELIMINARY PLAT - RESOLUTION NO. 4414 Kelley moved, Sansevere seconded, to approve and adopt RESOLUTION NO. 4414, a Resolution Granting an Extension of Preliminary Plat Approval for a Plat Proposed at 325 Willow Drive North. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0. (4) #2539 JOHN AND BECKI SUNDET, 684 TONKAWA ROAD - VARIANCES - RESOLUTION NO. 4415 Tom Barrett, City Attorney, recommended the following language be incorporated into the resolution between Paragraphs 6 and 7: "The Applicant has not demonstrated a hardship sufficient to allow the requirements for the variance to be waived ". Mayor Jabbour suggested that language be included in every resolution for denial. Peterson moved, Kelley seconded, to approve and adopt RESOLUTION NO. 4415, a Resolution Denying Variances to Permit an Addition to the Existing Residence Located at 684 Tonkawa Road. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0. -(5) #2557 DANIEL AND JUDITH MCATHIE, 1449 BAY RIDGE ROAD - VARIANCES - RESOLUTION NO. 4416 Kelley moved, Sansevere seconded, to approve and adopt RESOLUTION NO. 4416, a Resolution Granting Variances to Permit the Addition of a Garage and Living Space to the Existing Residence. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0. MAYOR/COUNCIL REPORT Mayor Jabbour stated as it relates to the new Highway 12 corridor, the Attorney General has decided that Long Lake's approval, because it was conditional, is not an approval but rather a denial. Jabbour stated he has been working with the Mayor of Long Lake to get it approved. • Page 4 • ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR JANUARY 24, 2000 (Mayor /Council Report, Continued) Jabbour stated he has been meeting with Mn/DOT to help find replacement housing for the approximately 100 families who will be displaced due to the new Highway 12 corridor. Jabbour stated he would like to see this issue resolved in the near future. Jabbour stated as it relates to the Dakota Rail to Trail project, the City Council for the City of Minnetrista has given its approval to this project. Jabbour stated the City of Orono has been asked by the City of Minnetonka and the DNR to testify at the State Legislature regarding funding for a public access. Peterson stated the Fire Department will be interviewing three architectural firms February 9th regarding the new building. Kelley suggested the two cities look at acquiring enough land to provide room for expansion as well as land for the Fire Department to hold drills. Kelley stated the hardest issue to address regarding the new fire department will be the location. Flint inquired whether a decision has been reached regarding the St. Boni/Minnetrista consolidation. • Moorse stated it is his impression there is some significant opposition to the consolidation. Moorse commented he is unsure whether the two City Councils will approve it for a referendum. Moorse stated the report indicates the Municipal Board feels the merger should occur. Mayor Jabbour commented on the loss of WSI being experienced by the City of Orono and the City of Long Lake. Jabbour indicated Long Lake Ford Tractor has also made the decision to close its doors. Jabbour stated he has expressed to the owners of Long Lake Ford Tractor the support of the City and the loss that the two communities will experience without this business. Sansevere stated he has received some E -mail regarding the heavy two -way traffic being experienced along the road into Woodhill Golf Course. Sansevere requested City Staff review the situation. Moorse stated he will have City Staff check on it. Sansevere inquired whether any progress has been made on finding a new police chief. Moorse indicated he would like to talk with a number of different consultants to determine the best process to follow in finding a replacement. Moorse stated he will report back to • the City Council regarding this item. Page 5 ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR JANUARY 24, 2000 is ENGINEER REPORT (6) POLICY ON CONNECTION TO SANITARY SEWER Moorse reviewed Gappa's January 24, 2000 memorandum regarding the City of Orono's policy on the time frame for connection to sanitary sewer. Currently the City's Septic Code requires connection to sanitary sewer within sixteen months from the date sewer is available. The projects being completed now are the result of recent changes to the State Septic Regulations regarding non - compliant systems and a more stringent interpretation of the three foot separation rule. This has resulted in approximately 400 septic systems being non - compliant throughout the City. Although these systems have been functioning adequately for many years and are not an imminent threat to public health and safety, the new State Codes consider such systems as failing. The City is proposing to allow the property owner three to ten years to replace their non - compliant septic system or connect to sewer. Kelley stated he is in agreement with the recommendations contained in the memorandum Flint and Peterson stated they also are in agreement with the recommendations. Sansevere expressed some concern that the residents who are forced to hook up to City • sewer may experience some financial difficulties as a result. Mayor Jabbour stated the property owner would have up to ten years to connect to City sewer. Kelley moved, Flint seconded, to approve the above described revisions to the City's Septic Code regarding time frames for connection to sanitary sewer, with any code changes included in the upcoming Septic Code revisions, as contained in the Public Works Director's Memorandum of January 24, 2000. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0. (7) FOX RIDGE SANITARY SEWER PROJECT A. Order Preparation of Feasibility Report - Resolution No. 4417 Moorse reviewed Gappa's memorandum of January 24, 2000, regarding the scheduling of a public hearing for the Fox Ridge Sanitary Sewer Project. Moorse indicated a letter has been mailed to the affected property owners notifying them of a neighborhood informational meeting that has been scheduled for Tuesday, February 8 at 7:00 p.m. City Staff is recommending another public hearing regarding this project be scheduled for the February 28th City Council meeting. • Page 6 ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR JANUARY 24, 2000 Flint indicated he will not be present at the February 28th City Council meeting. Kelley stated he also will not be in attendance at this meeting. (Fox Ridge Sanitary Sewer Project, Continued) Peterson moved, Sansevere seconded, to approve and adopt RESOLUTION NO. 4417, a Resolution Ordering Preparation of a Feasibility Report for the Installation of Municipal Sanitary Sewer to Serve the Fox Ridge Area. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0. B. Receive Feasibility Report and Call Hearing on Improvement - Resolution No. 4418 Peterson moved, Sansevere seconded, to approve and adopt RESOLUTION NO. 4418, a Resolution Receiving Report and Calling Hearing on Fox Ridge Sanitary Sewer Improvement. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0. *(8) FINAL PAY REQUEST - NAVARRE WELL NO. 1 is Kelley moved, Sansevere seconded, to approve Request for Final Payment, Navarre Well #1, Maintenance and Pump Repairs Project to Alberg Water Services, Inc., in the amount of $20,571.80. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0. CITY ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT *(9) HIRING OF FULL -TIME POLICE RECORDS CLERK Kelley moved, Sansevere seconded, to approve the hiring of Stacie Budig as Full -time Police Record Specialist with a salary rate of $13.03 per hour, plus benefits, effective January 31, 2000. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0. (10) AFFORDABLE HOUSING GRANT APPLICATION RELATED TO THE LAKE MINNETONKA WOODS TOWNHOMES - RESOLUTION NO. 4419 Moorse reviewed his January 21, 2000 memorandum regarding affordable housing grant application related to the Lake Minnetonka Woods Townhomes Resolution. Moorse stated he has met with the Metropolitan Council, who has toured the City. The Metropolitan Council has suggested the City apply for grants to buy down the cost of several of the townhomes to an affordable level. The grant application requires a Council resolution indicating the housing to be assisted with the grant is consistent with the housing is element of the City's Comprehensive Plan. Page 7 ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR JANUARY 24, 2000 • (Affordable Housing Grant Application, Continued) Flint inquired whether the resolution should be specific as to the number of townhomes to be bought down. Flint suggested up to four units be bought down. Moorse stated it was his understanding three to four units would be bought down. Flint stated the City needs diversity of people and income ranges, and if all the units are designated affordable housing, you would lose that diversity. Moorse stated the resolution is needed as part of the grant application. Mayor Jabbour suggested the City Council pass the resolution, with City Staff being directed to limit the amount of townhomes to be bought down to five. Moorse stated in his discussions with Guy Peterson, they have discussed four units. Kelley moved, Peterson seconded, to approve and adopt RESOLUTION NO. 4419, a Resolution to Verify that the Lake Minnetonka Woods Townhome Development is Consistent with the Housing Element of the City's Comprehensive Plan. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0. Flint stated under the buy -down program, the people who live in the development are • not aware of which units have been bought down. (11) SCHEDULE COUNCIL WORK SESSIONS Moorse stated February 9th at 6:00 p.m., has been scheduled for the interviews with the architects on the new Fire Department building. City Council directed City Staff to schedule a work session on February 14th at 5:00 p.m. City Council directed City Staff to schedule a work session for March 2nd at 7:30 a.m. (12) SCHEDULE A JOINT MEETING WITH THE LONG LAKE CITY COUNCIL Moorse stated City Staff is attempting to schedule a joint meeting with the Long Lake City Council for February 22nd to discuss the consolidation review process. Mayor Jabbour encouraged the members of the City Council to read the minutes of the Consolidation Committee's meetings and to review the financial information supplied by the consultant from Ehler's & Associates. The Council members indicated 5:30 p.m., on February 22 would work. Flint indicated he • will be out of town on the 22nd. Page 8 0 • LJ • ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR JANUARY 24, 2000 CITY ATTORNEY'S REPORT City Attorney Tom Barrett requested to meet in Executive Session with the City Council. *(13) LICENSES Kelley moved, Sansevere seconded, to approve the following licenses. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0. SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT 1. Charles Cudd Company Spring Preview of Homes 100 Crystal Creek Road February 26 - March 19, 2000 Noon - 7:00 p.m., Thursday - Sunday RESIDENTIAL KENNEL LICENSE 1. Wayne E. and Gayle D. Carrier 1376 North Arm Drive 2. Kenneth B. and Karen S. Rolland 4119 Oak Street CIGARETTE LICENSE 1. Richard Bloomquist Rick's Super Valu 3333 Shoreline Drive 2. Steven Corl Navarre Liquors, Inc. 3421 Shoreline Drive 3. Kenneth Galloway Wayzata Country Club 200 Wayzata Boulevard 4. Timothy Ivory Spring Hill Golf Club 725 Sixth Avenue North 7. John O'Sullivan O'Sullivans I (Convenience Store) 2420 Shadywood Road 8. John O'Sullivan O'Sullivans II (Convenience Store- Culvers) 3340 Shoreline Drive 9. Don Scherven Navarre Lanes 3435 Shoreline Drive 10. William Wear 12 -Hi Liquor, Inc. 2160 W. Wayzata Boulevard Page 9 5. LeRoy Koehnen Navarre Amoco 3360 Shoreline Drive 6. Troy Krahenbuhl Western Convenience 2160 Wayzata Boulevard *(14) BILLS ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR JANUARY 24, 2000 11. Grant Wenkstem Lakeview Golf of Orono, Inc. 405 North Arm Drive Kelley moved, Sansevere seconded, to approve Payment of the All Funds Account. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0. (15) ADJOURNMENT There being no further business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned at 8:40 p.m. AT ST: I I i l/ t �' Linda S. Vee, City Clerk \Gab�el Jabbour, Mayo Page 10 • ri U