HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-09-2015 Council MinutesMINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
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Page 1 of 43
ROLL CALL
The Orono City Council met on the above-mentioned date with the following members present: Mayor
Lili Tod McMillan, Council Members Jim Cornick, Jr., Lizz Levang, Aaron Printup, and Dennis Walsh.
Representing Staff were City Administrator Jessica Loftus, Finance Director Ron Olson, Senior Planner
Michael Gaffron, City Planner Melanie Curtis, Public Works Director/City Engineer Adam Edwards, City
Attorney Soren Mattick, Consulting City Engineer David Martini, and Recorder Jackie Young.
Mayor McMillan called the meeting to order at 7: 00 p.m., followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Item Nos. 7, 18, 19, 21, and 22 were added to the Consent Agenda.
Levang moved, Cornick seconded, to approve the Consent Agenda as amended. VOTE: Ayes 5,
Nays 0.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
*2. CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION OF FEBRUARY 23, 2015
Levang moved, Cornick seconded, to approve the minutes of the Orono City Council work session
of February 23, 2015, as submitted. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0.
*3. REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF FEBRUARY 23, 2015
Levang moved, Cornick seconded, to approve the minutes of the Orono City Council meeting of
February 23, 2015, as submitted. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0.
LMCD REPORT/BIG ISLAND REPORT – GABRIEL JABBOUR, REPRESENTATIVE
Gabriel Jabbour stated Orono is very fortunate to have a number of volunteers in the community, which is
how he is able to help maintain Big Island. Jabbour noted they added some signage on Big Island
recently based on requests from the Water Patrol. The signage identified that no motorized vehicles were
allowed as well as alcohol being prohibited. Jabbour indicated he welded every bolt so they could not be
unscrewed but vandals went to the extent of pulling the signs off the posts, which took a great deal of
effort.
Jabbour stated during the process of maintaining the park, they occasionally have to use motorized
vehicles. Jabbour stated one of the residents on Big Island continually calls the police and the Water
Patrol and objects to him being there. Jabbour stated eventually the Water Patrol will stop responding to
those types of calls, which he does not want to happen.
Jabbour stated overall everything is going fine on Big Island and that they are looking forward to putting
the docks out.
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ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
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(LMCD REPORT/BIG ISLAND REPORT – GABRIEL JABBOUR, REPRESENTATIVE,
continued)
Jabbour noted approximately one year ago he was expressing some frustration about the LMCD and the
City concluded that he should be on the Board to implement some of his ideas and concerns. Jabbour
stated he started by meeting with the Water Patrol and Sheriff prior to being on the Board about a variety
of issues. Jabbour noted he just finished having a meeting with the chair of the LMCD and an aide of the
sheriff this afternoon. Jabbour stated they unfortunately have gone from 54 volunteers down to 22 and
from 11 gun holders to six. As of today there are 25 volunteers and 10 or 11 sworn deputies. The Water
Patrol has brought back some of the people who are very familiar with the area.
Jabbour indicated they are trying to implement a program where there would be an incremental increase
in deputies. In addition, there will be a full-time deputy who serves exclusively on Lake Minnetonka and
will work with the volunteers and have a stronger presence on the lake. Jabbour stated the other positive
thing that has happened is that over 50 volunteers are currently undergoing background checks in order to
work with the Water Patrol. Jabbour noted there are three levels of volunteers and that the 50 volunteers
are being looked at for all three levels.
Jabbour stated he also pointed out to the City of Shorewood in October that the LMCD has a strategic
plan that only one or two board members were aware of. That resulted in a meeting in October with the
chair and resulted in them distributing it to the board members and attempting to update it. There was
also a meeting held in January of this year and the LMCD Board went through the report.
Jabbour stated in the summer of last year he engaged the Carlson School of Business to do a survey of the
residents about their perceptions of the LMCD. That program will be starting this month. Jabbour
indicated some of the LMCD board members met with them and felt it should be under their umbrella.
Jabbour stated he was not in agreement with that and that the MBA program will exclusively be doing the
survey.
Jabbour stated he also tried to freeze the salaries of the LMCD personnel until the job descriptions are
finalized and the weight they put on those positions. Jabbour noted a number of government entities
approve a three percent raise regardless. Jabbour noted last year the LMCD relocated to Mound and
realized a $20,000 savings, or seven percent of the budget, but that the LMCD went ahead and raised the
budget by three percent. Jabbour stated he was looking for reductions in the budget, which did not
happen.
Jabbour stated the LMCD was also founded as a coordinating agency and not founded as an implementing
agency. The LMCD does not have the ability to levy, have staff, or do projects that they do not have the
expertise or the know-how on how to do it. Jabbour stated the LMCD will be turning the inspection
programs over and partnering with Three Rivers Park. The LMCD will still pay for the inspection
programs but will not be in charge of running it. Jabbour stated in his view that will help save the LMCD
some money. Jabbour indicated the Board will be looking for other programs that could possibly be
taken over by other government entities.
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ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
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(LMCD REPORT/BIG ISLAND REPORT – GABRIEL JABBOUR, REPRESENTATIVE,
continued)
Jabbour indicated another item he would like the LMCD Board to look at is the milfoil harvesting.
Jabbour noted money for the initial harvesters were donated but that the LMCD is now replacing them at
hundreds of thousands of dollars. Jabbour stated with a number of bays now being treated by the
residents themselves, the LMCD does not need to be harvesting the milfoil. Jabbour noted the original
purpose of the milfoil harvesting was only to harvest navigable water and not all the bays.
McMillan stated she appreciates the work being done by Mr. Jabbour.
PLANNING COMMISSION COMMENTS – CHRISTOPHER McGRANN, REPRESENTATIVE
McGrann noted on Item No. 10, the Planning Commission voted 5-0 recommending approval of the street
setback variance. In addition, the Planning Commission has spent a fair amount of time amending the
zoning codes that are now before the City Council. McGrann stated he will be available for questions.
PRESENTATIONS
4. BOY SCOUT BRIDGE, HENNEPIN COUNTY BRIDGE ENGINEER JAMES ARCHER
James Archer, Hennepin County Bridge Engineer, stated he is here tonight to provide an update on the
Boy Scout bridge replacement. The bridge is located on Tonkawa Road between North Arm and
Maxwell Bay and is also known as the Boy Scout Bridge. Archer displayed a map on the overhead
showing the location of the bridge. CSAH 135 runs north up to County Road 84, which is Bayside Road.
The existing bridge is a single-span steel girder structure with a timber deck and 3-inch bituminous
overlay, which was originally constructed in the 1930s. The bridge has been determined to be structurally
deficient and has narrow shoulders and is load restricted. Archer indicated a single-axle vehicle weighs
approximately 23 tons and a three-axle vehicle would weigh around 36 tons. A non-posted bridge would
have a 40-ton weight limit. Archer stated the bridge is load posted for 40 tons.
Archer displayed pictures of the bridge and noted that the bridge also has substandard railings. The new
bridge would be constructed with a concrete railing with a similar guardrail tying into it. The bridge is
currently experiencing some deterioration at the beam line. Some of the design considerations include
increasing the vertical clearance, widening the shoulder widths to four feet, and 12-foot driving lanes.
The detour route would be north to Bayside Road. Archer noted no residents are able to access Tonkawa
Road to the south of the bridge.
Archer stated there are some existing utilities and overhead utilities in the area. In addition, the City has a
force main in that area and Hennepin County will be coordinating with Staff on work in that area. Archer
noted they have already spoken with Mr. Edwards and Mr. Gaffron about this project.
Archer indicated they are still in the preliminary design phase of the project but that they are looking at
constructing a single-span concrete bridge with a concrete beam section, which is similar to a concrete
I-girder, but in the interests of vertical clearance, it is compressed into a rectangle. The existing
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ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
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(4. BOY SCOUT BRIDGE, HENNEPIN COUNTY BRIDGE ENGINEER JAMES ARCHER,
continued)
foundation will be removed to channel bottom and made wider. At this time the architectural finishes are
undetermined. Retaining walls may be incorporated into the design, but at this point it is uncertain how
much exposed concrete there will be. Archer indicated they typically do not incorporate architectural
features for walls under four feet and that component still remains to be determined.
Archer displayed a picture of an existing section of the bridge and noted that the new bridge would be
approximately eight feet wider than the existing structure.
Archer indicated Hennepin County is working with City Staff on holding an open house at the end of
March at Orono City Hall. The mailing area will include everyone along Tonkawa Road and up to
Bayside Road. The residents on the south side of North Arm Bay will also be notified to get their
feedback on whether the inside of the bridge should be lit and other aesthetic features of the bridge. It is
anticipated the mailing will go out sometime this week.
Archer noted this project will be eligible to receive federal funds as well as funds from Hennepin County.
The City of Orono is not expected to contribute any funds to the project. Bids are expected to be open in
August and the project will commence next summer. The overall length of the project is anticipated to be
two to three months.
Archer indicated he has also been in touch with the Water Patrol and that he will be contacting the LMCD
at some point in the future. Archer stated he can either get city approval tonight or come back later once
the plans are more detailed. In addition, the residents will be able to sign up at any time on the website in
order to get news releases and information on the project.
Archer noted another bridge replacement is being planned on CSAH 146 near the intersection of Fox
Street. That project will also be receiving federal dollars. Archer noted that project will be smaller than
this project and have fewer impacts to the residents.
Council Member Levang stated she happens to live at the bottom of Tonkawa Road where it intersects
with Bayside and that last fall someone towing a very large boat missed turning left or right and landed in
her driveway. Levang noted no one was hurt in that incident and that Hennepin County has now erected a
sign with arrows showing that they have to turn.
Levang stated she would like to ensure that that area is looked at carefully since it is not the first time that
cars have missed that intersection and have landed in her driveway. Levang indicated there is a very
steep landing on either side and that when someone is driving down Tonkawa, it is a very steep incline.
Levang stated if someone is not familiar with the road, they can fail to turn and land in her driveway. In
addition, the incline can become very slippery when it is raining or snowing and the visibility is not that
good. Levang stated that area has the potential for accidents to happen if traffic is diverted that direction
and that extra attention needs to be paid to that.
Archer stated that will be part of the detour but that this project will not require any construction in that
area. Archer indicated he will make sure additional signage is added as well as perhaps implementing
temporary speed limits prior to the project commencing.
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ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
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(4. BOY SCOUT BRIDGE, HENNEPIN COUNTY BRIDGE ENGINEER JAMES ARCHER,
continued)
Levang suggested some type of sign that says steep hill ahead or some type of advanced warning be
erected.
Archer stated typically 10 to 14 days prior to the project starting signage will be put up.
McMillan asked if there is a date set yet for the open house.
Archer indicated they do not have a definite date set yet but that it will be held at Orono City Hall.
McMillan asked if there are any public comments on this project.
John Nyquist, 1432 Baldur Park Road, asked whether the bridge clearance will be raised for boat traffic.
Archer stated they have preliminarily looked at the clearance and that it may be possible to raise the
vertical clearance by four inches. Archer indicated they are not able to raise it further than that without
turning it into a two-mile project.
Ralph Kempf, 3675 Togo Road, noted there are two marinas on Maxwell Bay and that when the water
elevation gets raised; oftentimes boat traffic cannot go under that bridge. Kempf stated if they can
increase it by four inches, in his view the boating population will be very appreciative.
Kempf asked if the architectural finishes will be determined by the time of the open house.
Archer stated that would be ideal but that it will be more likely there will be some preliminary renditions.
Archer stated in his view they are not far enough in the design process to finalize that component but that
he can have some samples of other bridges for the residents to look at.
Kempf asked if there will be another opportunity after the open house for public comment.
Archer stated they can definitely reconvene the open house is there is sufficient public interest in holding
another one. Information will also be posted to the website for the residents to access. The residents will
also have the ability to submit written comments at the open house.
Walsh noted he lives near the area where the County Road 19 project was done and that it went well.
Walsh stated the extra width will be greatly appreciated.
5. NAVARRE BANNER DESIGN – JOAN WOLFE
Joan Wolfe stated the City Council may have received an electronic document that is significantly darker
than what is really being proposed and that she has some images that are closer to the actual banner.
Wolfe stated during the process of coming up with a design, she had the assistance of local artist Mary
McKenzie, who created the design. Wolfe stated when they first looked at this; their goal was to
incorporate a very welcome title on the top of the banner.
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ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
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(5. NAVARRE BANNER DESIGN – JOAN WOLFE, continued)
The title was then tied to the center of the image, which is a map of the bays around Navarre. Also
incorporated into the sign are some lampposts, a cheerful yellow color as well as a yellow boat. Wolfe
stated Mary has been working on the depth of the colors.
Levang stated the design is quite beautiful and that she appreciates the artistry that has gone into it.
Levang stated in her view this is a piece of public art rather than a banner with a basic color and some
simple words. Levang stated the banner will be enjoyed for a long time and that perhaps the image could
be used in brochures that talk about Navarre. Levang stated in essence they have come up with a new
brand for Navarre with the uniqueness of the banner.
Council Member Walsh stated in his view the banner is very well done and that he would be interested in
hearing the comments of the residents of Navarre.
McMillan stated she noticed in Joan’s book on the History of Navarre that Minnetonka Beach was also
called the Island City and that she was wondering whether that would cause any confusion with
Minnetonka Beach. McMillan stated in her view it is a great catchy phrase but that she is not sure
whether it would be confusing.
McMillan stated Navarre is also a neighborhood of Orono and that she did not know whether the banner
should say a neighborhood of Orono.
Wolfe stated while researching the background information in preparation for her book, it was very
unclear where the exact boundaries of the Island City was and that it was generally located in the center
of Lake Minnetonka near Crystal Bay. In addition, Minnetonka Beach was not well defined and that it
evolved over time. Wolfe stated she is not sure that it is conflicting but that it did occur to her as well.
McMillan stated in her view it would be nice to tie Navarre and Orono together.
Wolfe stated they initially thought about putting the words Island City of Orono as a clarification but that
Mary decided to incorporate Orono’s logo at the bottom of the sign instead.
McMillan stated Orono has a number of named neighborhoods and that it is nice to differentiate them but
yet tie them together with the actual city they are in.
Levang noted when someone enters Navarre; they will see a Navarre sign that also says City of Orono.
Levang stated she likes the word neighborhood.
Wolfe stated they could take island off and just say Orono, but that may not be quite appropriate either.
McMillan suggested they work with using both phrases to see how it would fit on the banner.
Walsh stated from a banner perspective, he would encourage them to look at using better colors that will
have a little more longevity. Walsh stated the yellow may not be visible in the sun.
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ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
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(5. NAVARRE BANNER DESIGN – JOAN WOLFE, continued)
Wolfe stated the degree of color fast is definitely a question they will be asking when meeting with the
banner vendor.
McKenzie stated they tried blue on the banner but that sometimes blue will blend into the sky.
Wolfe stated the light will shine on the banner at night given the way the light posts are situated. Wolfe
pointed out that there is also an American Flag on the Minnehaha, which is a nice touch. Wolfe stated the
Minnehaha is being worked on this winter and that they hope to get the stack to go up and down. Wolfe
stated if they are able to do that, it is possible the Minnehaha will be able to go in the upper lake again.
Rick Meyer, Park Commission Chair, stated in his view it is a great design and that the banner cannot be
all things to all people. Meyer stated he has never seen anything from Minnetonka Beach that says Island
City and that tonight is the first he has heard of it being referred to as that. Meyer stated Minnetonka
Beach is part of the overall community.
Meyer stated in his view the banner helps make Navarre a special neighborhood and that it looks different
and is more artistic than any other banner he has seen. Meyer stated the banner also ties in with Joan
Wolfe’s book and helps make Navarre a special neighborhood of Orono. Meyer stated it is his hope they
do not change the banner too much.
Ralph Kempf, 3675Togo Road, stated in his view it is a wonderful piece. Kempf asked if it bigger than
the old banners.
McKenzie indicated it is about the same size as the old banners.
Kempf stated he likes the simplicity of the top and bottom words and that the image of the street car/boat
is iconic and will be recognized. Kempf stated he is in agreement that Minnetonka Beach is not
associated with Island City. Kempf stated they could perhaps say The Island City of Orono if it does not
squeeze it down too much. Kempf indicated he also likes the cattails going down the side.
Kempf stated his only concern is that people driving by who are not familiar with where Navarre is
located on the lake where identify the brown tones with water. Kempf stated if he was driving through
Navarre and saw the banner for the first time, he would not picture water. Kempf suggested they consider
making the water look more like water to help people make the connection easier.
McKenzie stated she needs the City’s permission to use their logo on the banner.
McMillan stated that is not a problem. McMillan stated the words Island City is nice and concise at the
bottom and that if everyone is okay with that, she would be fine with leaving it as is.
Council Member Cornick stated the logo of Orono should perhaps be made more proportional to the
words Island City.
McMillan suggested the final design be submitted to the City Administrator and that the Council can
approve it at their next meeting. McMillan suggested cost estimates also be submitted at the same time.
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ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
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(5. NAVARRE BANNER DESIGN – JOAN WOLFE, continued)
Wolfe stated it would be nice to get a sample of the banner so the Council can see it.
Council Member Printup stated he would also be interested in knowing whether they prefer what is being
presented tonight or whether they prefer the banner with the revisions.
Walsh suggested they obtain a couple of estimates with different qualities of dye.
6. LONG LAKE FIRE DEPARTMENT, FIRE CHIEF JAMES VAN EYLL
Fire Chief Van Eyll stated he is here tonight to present the 2014 annual report for the Long Lake Fire
Department. It is the mission of the Long Lake Fire Department to minimize the loss of life and property
for its fire service recipients in the Cities of Long Lake, Medina and Orono from fires, natural disasters
and life-threatening situations.
The goal of the fire department is to perform these services in a professional and efficient manner by
maintaining effective training, fire prevention, fire suppression and emergency response. The Long Lake
Fire Department is currently under the leadership of James Van Eyll, Assistant Chief John Hall, and
Deputy Chief of Administration DJ Goman, District Captain Shane Gardner, and Fire Captain Kelly
Shaughnessy. Van Eyll stated one of the fire lieutenants has stepped down and Doug Johnson has been
appointed to fill the position until the end of the year.
The Long Lake Fire Department reorganized approximately three years ago. There are currently 41
active members, with all members going to be Firefighter I or II state certified, First Responders or EMT
certified, and HazMat Operations Certified. There are currently three probationary members that were
brought on at the end of 2014.
The Long Lake Fire Department currently has two stations it operates out of. In 2014, the Long Lake Fire
Department responded to a total of 353 calls, with the majority of the calls being located in Orono. In
2014, Orono had 14 fire calls, 55 medical calls, 46 hazardous condition calls, 91 good intent calls, 65
false alarms, and 4 severe weather calls, for a total of 281. In 2013, Orono had 426 calls.
McMillan asked if the fire calls related to building fires.
Van Eyll indicated they can be any type of fire and could range from outside fires to building fires. There
were two major structural fires that occurred in Orono in 2014.
The average response time for Orono was 0.05.56 seconds, with an average response time for all cities
being 0.06.18. The reduction in the response time resulted from the overall call volume being reduced as
well as the location of calls. Mutual aid calls had an 0:11:30 response time. The majority of the calls
were received between the hours of 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., which was slightly down from last year. Orono
had a total of 4,347 hours in calls.
The Long Lake Fire Department is currently in the process of finalizing the budget for this year. In 2014,
the Fire Department ended the year at approximately $3,000 under budget but the numbers have yet to be
finalized. Van Eyll noted the Long Lake Fire Department will reach its 100-year anniversary in April.
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ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
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(6. LONG LAKE FIRE DEPARTMENT, FIRE CHIEF JAMES VAN EYLL, continued)
Overall goals for the Fire Department completed in 2014 included Blue Card Lite training, refinement of
the driver training program, creation of a small engine check sheet at both stations, debriefings after most
calls, and participation in the Wellness and Fitness program. The Fire Department also completed more
small group training, driver training, in-house Blue Card Lite training, CO alarm training with True
Readings, and training with CAFS and Foam.
The Fire Department’s 2015 goals include LLFD branding, duty clothing, review and revamp SOP.
Training goals for 2015 include live burn training, medical training, officer development, driver training,
and increased foam/CAFS training.
Van Eyll noted upcoming events for 2015 include the pancake breakfast on April 19, the memorial 5k
race on July 25, the centennial celebration on September 19, Kids Day on October 25, and the Slow Burn
Brigade food drive on December 5.
Walsh stated Chief Van Eyll is doing a great job. Walsh noted the Fire Department was approximately
$3,000 under budget and that there were 20 percent fewer calls. Walsh stated as the Fire Department goes
through the budget process, he would like to see how 20 percent more calls would impact the budget.
Van Eyll stated the one wild card that plays into the budget every year is the number of calls. Van Eyll
stated some of the things that are scheduled for the end of the year may need to be delayed if the funds are
not available.
Walsh stated it would be helpful to the Council if there were a couple of different scenarios presented and
the impact it would have on the budget.
McMillan asked if he has any thoughts on the rumble strips that have been installed on Highway 12.
Chief Van Eyll stated the Long Lake Fire Department has not seen significant traffic accidents in their
section of the corridor, which was true even before the rumble strips were added. Van Eyll stated the
rumble strips appear to be doing what they were designed to do but that the weather has also been less
severe this year.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
John Quinlivan stated he would like to comment on the section of road that Council Member Levang
mentioned in regards to the bridge project. Quinlivan indicated he is a contactor and that he does a
tremendous amount of work in that area. Quinlivan stated he has found that section of road to be
dangerous.
Quinlivan stated in his view there needs to be permanent signage erected in that area and not just during
the construction period. Quinlivan stated unfortunately construction brings a lot of new drivers into the
area and that in his view there should be a stop sign coming up the hill before you turn as well as some
signage at the top of the hill. Quinlivan stated the road also does get slippery in inclement weather.
PLANNING DEPARTMENT REPORT
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ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
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*7. #13-3623 LIN YAN/CITY OF ORONO – 1330 CHERRY PLACE – CORRECTED
RESOLUTION, RESOLUTION NO.
Levang moved, Cornick seconded, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. , a Corrective Resolution of the
City Council for the property located at 1330 Cherry Place. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0.
8. #14-3685 WILLI ABBOTT ON BEHALF OF THE BROADWAY GROUP, LLC
Gaffron stated the applicant is requesting an amendment of the Development Contract and RPUD
Agreement for Oliver Hill to revise the limits on lot coverage for two of the seven lots.
Oliver Hill had a lot coverage limit of 15 percent per lot, which is lot coverage by structures. The
developer initially had proposed to build fairly modest homes ranging from 1,800 to 2,200 square foot.
Staff recently received a house plan for Lot 2, Block 2. Lot 2, Block 2 has a limit of 15 percent structural
coverage. The house plan came in with a footprint of approximately 4,000 square feet or 22 percent lot
coverage. Gaffron stated clearly that house does not fit the lot.
The developer is still in the process of constructing the road and they have not constructed any homes at
this point. The applicants have asked whether they could exchange lot coverage for Lot 2, Block 2 with
Lot 2, Block 1, which is directly across from Lot 2, Block 2. Gaffron indicated Lot 2, Block 2, is a good
sized lot but is small compared to the rest of the lots in the neighborhood. The lot consists of
approximately 17,917 square feet and the lot across the street is almost 3,000 square feet.
Gaffron stated lot coverage has always been a massing issue and that the 15 percent is based on the entire
lot and not just the dry buildable land. The applicant has raised the question of whether it would be
feasible to exchange the amount of lot coverage that is allotted to the lot to the north for the smaller 15
percent lot coverage for Lot 2 to the south.
During the application process, the applicant indicated his intent was to build modestly sized homes, and
the conceptual footprints shown on the approved development plans had no footprint larger than 2,200
square feet. The issue for the Council to consider is whether it is reasonable to allow the transfer of
unusable excess lot coverage allotment from one lot to another lot. Gaffron noted that has not been done
previously. From Staff’s perspective, allowing 22 percent structural coverage would be way out of
proportion to the 15 percent structural lot coverage. Gaffron stated Staff remains neutral on whether it is
appropriate to swap the lot coverage.
Willi Abbott, The Broadway Group, stated he would like to raise a couple of points. Abbott stated it is
his belief that he made a mistake and missed that lot when calculating the 15 percent on each lot. In
addition, the lot lines were moved further back in order to meet the changed setback. Abbott stated when
they were calculating the 15 percent initially; they knew that Lot 2, Block 2, was going to be tight but that
they did not realize it would be that tight.
Abbott stated they originally set out to do 2,100 to 3,000 square foot homes. Abbott stated if you look at
the homes drawn on the survey, those were put on there by the surveyor to give an idea of where the
homes might go rather than the actual square footages.
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ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
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(8. #14-3685 WILLI ABBOTT ON BEHALF OF THE BROADWAY GROUP, LLC,
continued)
Abbott stated it has always been their intent to construct homes that ranged from 2,500 to 3,000 square
feet. The house plan that was recently submitted is around 3,200 square feet, excluding the front porch
and the screen porch, which is close to what was initially proposed.
Abbott stated as it relates to the massing, in his view the impact will be very, very low since the other
homes will not be that large. Abbott noted the plan submitted for Lot 1, Block 1, is around seven percent
structural coverage. Abbott stated if the Council looks at it as a whole group, since it is an RPUD, it is
below the 15 percent.
Abbott stated in his view the development works well for the City of Orono when the lots are larger.
With this lot only being 17,000 square feet, it makes it difficult to design a saleable house. Abbott noted
the worksheet that was submitted deals with Items B, F, G and H. Abbott stated in his view this
development fits this area and that the majority of the homes will be less than the 15 percent and close in
size to each other.
Abbott stated they also set out to have very low priced lots, which has been accomplished, and that they
are the lowest priced lots in Orono.
McMillan asked what the average price of the lots is.
Abbott stated to his recollection the lots sold for around $165,000.
McMillan asked what actual square footage of the house is for Lot 2.
Abbott indicated it is 3,200 square feet, which does not include the screen porch.
McMillan asked if there would be living space above the garage.
Abbott stated there would be a first floor and second floor, which includes some square footage over the
garage.
Gaffron stated the deck and screen porch would also need to be included in the structural coverage if it is
over six feet in height.
Abbott stated he included the porch but not the deck since it is not above six feet.
Gaffron stated if the deck railing height is no higher than six feet above the grade, it would not be
included.
Abbott stated to his understanding the total number would be 3,709 square feet.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Page 12 of 43
(8. #14-3685 WILLI ABBOTT ON BEHALF OF THE BROADWAY GROUP, LLC,
continued)
Walsh stated it is a slippery slope when they start talking about trading structural coverage for land and
that it is questionable where it would stop. Walsh stated if the Council starts allowing it, the standards
would be pretty much out the window. Walsh stated in his view everyone knew what the structural
coverage limit was and that the developer has the option of either leaving it as a smaller lot or combining
it with another lot. Walsh stated if the Council allows the land for one lot to be traded with another lot, it
would set a bad precedent.
McMillan indicated she is in agreement with Council Member Walsh.
Walsh stated it could also lead to people selling their structural coverage.
Levang stated the proposed house for Lot 1 consists of 2,932 square feet and the proposed house for
Lot 2, Block 2, is 2,680 square feet, which are smaller numbers. Levang questioned whether he will be
back asking for another increase.
Levang stated the City Council and Staff looked at this development very carefully and had long
discussions about the lot size and house size. Levang stated in her view the Council understood how the
homes would sit on the property and that some of the lots had more land than others as it related to dry
buildable. In the end the Council agreed to a certain configuration and that she is not willing to now
change what was agreed to in the resolution.
Printup indicated he is not comfortable with the trade-off since he is not sure where it will lead.
McMillan stated the two lots will have two different kinds of back yards, which will provide diversity and
helps keep the massing under control.
Cornick indicated he also is in agreement with the rest of the Council.
Levang moved, Cornick seconded, Application No. 14-3685, Willi Abbott on Behalf of the
Broadway Group, LLC, to deny the request for an amendment to the resolution and RPUD
agreement for the Oliver Hill development. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0.
9. #14-3687 REAL ASSETS II, LLC 3720 – 3730 NORTHERN AVENUE – PLAT OF
NORTHERN OAKS
Gaffron stated the applicants are requesting approval of a revised grading plan and amendment of the
terms of the PRD agreement for Northern Oaks with respect to the condition requiring compliance with
the conditions of Preliminary Plat Resolution No. 6345. The applicants are specifically requesting the
condition that the approved grading plan does not establish new existing grades for building height
determination purposes.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Page 13 of 43
(9. #14-3687 REAL ASSETS II, LLC 3720 – 3730 NORTHERN AVENUE – PLAT OF
NORTHERN OAKS, continued)
Northern Oaks has six parallel lots that extend to the back of the property with a fairly large wetland. The
homes are all placed up against the road to the south, which is Northern Avenue. The first two homes on
the left side are currently under construction and the third house from the left came in with a proposed
lower level that technically, based on the existing grades on the site, would be classified as a story rather
than a basement.
The applicants have looked at both Lots 3 and 4, as did Staff, to see where they stand with those lots. The
lots are very tight with no lateral ability to move the homes around. The original grading plan that was
approved for the site specifically did not establish new existing grades. Gaffron stated based on the
existing grades, both Lots 3 and 4 would not be able to have two stories with a basement. As a result, the
surveyor has proposed a slightly different grading plan that would bring in slightly more fill to artificially
change those levels from stories into basements.
One of the concerns Staff has is what the City’s initial intent was with this development. In the case
where the developer was not intending to immediately create building pads, the City would not ordinarily
establish new existing grades. In the case where a developer were proposing to immediately create
building pads, the City would generally accept those proposed grades that would be created by the
developer as new existing grades for measuring basements.
Gaffron stated in this case, one of the impacts of the proposed grading plan was that the houses at the east
and west end of the development are higher in topography, and as you get towards the center of the site,
the houses would be lower. In order to create new grades, those houses will have a little different
character than they would otherwise have.
Gaffron displayed a color rendering of the homes. Gaffron noted the houses are not exactly in a straight
line and they all have approximately a 20-foot separation between the homes. The homes on the left side
are set back slightly further than the other homes. Gaffron stated one of the things the City was hoping
not to create was a neighborhood with six or seven homes that all look the same right in a row. Given the
varying locations of the building pads, these homes will have a little bit different character.
From Staff’s perspective, this application perhaps should have been looked at it as creating new existing
grades. As the situation currently exists, Lots 3 and 4 would not be able to have two stories and a full
basement but rather a basement and a story and a half, which would provide some vertical relief to the
neighborhood.
Gaffron stated if the Council feels approval is warranted, Staff can revise the development agreement.
Gaffron noted the applicant has graded the stormwater ponds on the west and east side of the wetland and
have done a good job with the drainage.
Walsh asked whether the City would allow someone to change the grade on a tear down in any
neighborhood.
Gaffron stated Staff would want to see a grading plan to ensure it does not have any negative impacts on
the neighborhood.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Page 14 of 43
(9. #14-3687 REAL ASSETS II, LLC 3720 – 3730 NORTHERN AVENUE – PLAT OF
NORTHERN OAKS, continued)
Walsh asked whether the City has a hard and fast rule that prohibits the grade from being changed if it
does not have a negative impact on the neighborhood.
Gaffron stated depending on how much grading the person is doing, it could require a conditional use
permit. Gaffron stated Staff could approve it administratively if the grading is just associated with the
one house, is less than 500 cubic yards, and is not artificially changing the grade so the person is creating
a basement out of a story
Walsh asked what would happen if they are changing it from a basement to a walkout.
Gaffron indicated a conditional use permit would likely be required.
Mark Gronberg, Surveyor, stated he and the developer worked very hard with City Staff and the
Watershed District to achieve the correct drainage on the site. Gronberg stated they submitted a plan with
proposed grades that had Lots 3 and 4 built up a little because they had to get the water off to the two
sides. There was not enough room to put a pond or a stormwater area in the middle due to the way the
wetland bows in.
Gronberg stated he was surprised when he saw the resolution and had he been part of the discussion
regarding the final resolution, he would have objected because it was based on existing grades. Gronberg
indicated the resolution did not meet the intent of the whole grading plan of the Watershed District and
the City Engineers. Gronberg stated they can still meet the approved grading plan for these homes and
that in other developments they have worked off the approved grading plan.
McMillan asked how many feet they would like to stack against the homes.
Gronberg stated the original grading plan depicted just boxes, and that when they come in with a
proposed house, there are sometimes minor changes to the plan. Gronberg noted they did not have to
change it much from the approved grading plan.
Gaffron stated the biggest changes were in between these two lots and on other side of Lots 3 and 4.
McMillan asked if what the Council is being shown is the final plat grading plan.
Gaffron indicated it is. Gaffron stated what Mr. Gronberg has provided is showing where there is more
pronounced drainage between the homes, deeper ditches, and a little more fill in the front than what was
there previously. Gaffron stated there is enough of a change that if you add another foot or two of fill;
those stories would go back to being basements.
Gronberg stated to his knowledge nothing changed by more than a foot or a foot and a half. Gronberg
stated most of that is based on having definite house plans.
Walsh asked if he saw this as more of a design/build process.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Page 15 of 43
(9. #14-3687 REAL ASSETS II, LLC 3720 – 3730 NORTHERN AVENUE – PLAT OF
NORTHERN OAKS, continued)
Gronberg stated once someone arrives at a house plan, little tweaks sometimes need to be made to it.
Walsh asked if they accomplished the grading plan prior to the final plat being approved.
Gronberg indicated they did. Gronberg stated the basic grades did not change and that this is just to meet
the criteria for a basement. Gronberg indicated the garage elevations and the walkout elevations are the
same.
McMillan asked if someone can have either a basement walkout or a story walkout.
Gaffron stated how Staff deals with whether it is a basement or a story has to do with how much of the
foundation below that first floor is exposed. If more than 50 percent of the perimeter is exposed more
than six feet, it is considered a story.
Gaffron noted some years ago the City had a discussion about whether they should measure from the
basement floor up or from the floor above down. The City found that most cities go from the floor above
down because it relates to how much of the basement foundation is exposed.
Gaffron stated in this case, the actual elevations were not changed for the main floors. Gaffron indicated
he did discuss with the applicants that in order to reduce the amount of additional fill they required, they
could go from a 9.5 foot basement ceiling to an 8-foot basement ceiling. Gaffron indicated it his
understanding the applicants are not interested in doing that since from a marketing standpoint they
believe no one is interested in buying a story and a half. Gaffron noted Mr. Abbott a year and a half ago
proposed a story and a half but is now proposing two stories. In this case the applicant has always
proposed two-story homes.
Gronberg pointed out this change would only affect the two homes in the middle and that the views from
the back or the front will not change.
Printup stated from previous conversations, the Council knew the last two lots would be more restricted,
and everyone was aware of that, which was similar to the discussion with the previous applicant. Printup
stated this would set a precedent and the question is whether the Council wants to start doing that.
Printup indicated he is not comfortable with that.
Levang stated to her recollection the Council has had similar discussions on what is classified a story or a
basement.
Gaffron stated Staff goes through the analysis with every new building permit that comes in to the City,
and perhaps one out of two end up having to redefine or redesign something in order to make it work.
Gaffron stated it is one of those things the City is dealing with almost on a daily basis.
Levang stated that leads her to support Council Member Printup and that she would rather not deviate
from what was initially agreed to. When Staff and the Council did the analysis on this development, they
struggled significantly with how to define what would be a lot and how many would be walkouts. Two
Council Members wanted the number of homes to only be five.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Page 16 of 43
(9. #14-3687 REAL ASSETS II, LLC 3720 – 3730 NORTHERN AVENUE – PLAT OF
NORTHERN OAKS, continued)
Levang stated in her view it is not the work of the Council to look at the issue of whether a house is
sellable or not in terms of a story and a half versus two stories. Levang indicated she is not willing to
change the original resolution.
Walsh indicated he is a little more receptive to changing it and that the City would not be breaking any
new ground here in terms of adding additional fill. Walsh stated in his view the City would not be setting
any precedent and that the City Council has an obligation to the City to make sure that the correct things
are done and that they are not building homes that are not saleable. Walsh stated he would be a little
more receptive to solving the problem and getting some good saleable homes.
Todd Holmers asked if they dropped it to a foot and a half and went to the 8-foot basement whether that
would solve the problem.
Gaffron noted they had that discussion on the site and concluded that it would help but that Staff would
need to see an exact plan. Gaffron stated it would definitely get it closer but it could potentially change
the location of the garage and possibly other things.
Gronberg stated they did look at having an 8-foot basement and it did work. Gronberg stated that would
lower the house level from what was shown on the original grading plan.
Gaffron stated that is true, and from Staff’s perspective, if there was a grading plan that showed additional
fill and the location of the houses, they could review that. Gaffron indicated he would not want to do it as
a variance but rather approve it only as a change to the master grading plan for the development. Gaffron
stated he does not want to start a precedent of requiring a variance on it, which is why these two
applications were brought before the City Council tonight. Gaffron stated this application is still in the
development plan phase, which could justify changing the development agreement.
Printup stated if the flexibility is there, the applicant could come back with another plan.
Levang asked if Staff is recommending it be tabled until the applicant can submit a new plan showing the
8-foot ceilings.
Gaffron stated it would be helpful to have an actual plan that Staff can review to see whether it would
work.
McMillan asked if they would need to come back to the City Council if the 8-foot ceilings worked.
Gaffron stated if the lower basements work with the original grading plan, the only thing the City is doing
then is saying that the City will accept the idea that the original grading plan did create the new existing
grades for measuring basements and heights.
Walsh asked if that is an interpretation or whether it would require a revision to the resolution.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Page 17 of 43
(9. #14-3687 REAL ASSETS II, LLC 3720 – 3730 NORTHERN AVENUE – PLAT OF
NORTHERN OAKS, continued)
Gaffron indicated it would change one sentence in the development agreement and would not require a
resolution. Gaffron stated Council action would be needed to amend the development agreement.
Mattick stated he is in agreement with that. Typically the City will allow grading, but when Staff
measures height, it is based on what the previous grade is. In a situation like this, the City does have
some flexibility with those standards, which is why it is not a variance situation.
McMillan noted the City has had some issues in the past with artificially creating grades and that she is
protective of that. McMillan stated in her view if someone creates too high of a grade around the house, it
can create faster runoff, which is something to consider.
McMillan stated she does not particularly believe that someone needs two stories to sell a house and that a
variety of homes is good for a community. McMillan stated in her view it is important to go with what
offers long-term value for Orono, which is a variety of housing. McMillan stated she understands the
developer’s point of view is what is selling now but that she is looking at the long-term appreciation for
Orono, which is to have a variety of housing. McMillan stated the homes could be sold to someone that
does not require four bedrooms.
Levang stated she specifically remembers George Stickney telling the Council that these would be smaller
homes for people who are downsizing and that a variety of modest homes were what the Council agreed
to. Levang stated she does not want to set a precedent and that the Council needs to be mindful of the
grading.
Todd Holmers pointed out the two lots in the center will be lower than the other homes and will not be
any taller than any of the other ones.
Levang indicated she did visit the site earlier today and that it is considerably lower in that area but that
everyone knew that it would be.
Gaffron stated based on the analysis by Staff for Lot 3, even with the proposed grades, the lowest level
would still be considered a story with 9-foot ceilings. Gaffron stated if a plan is submitted showing Lots
3 and 4 with an 8-foot basement based on the pre-existing proposed grades, then the City would only need
to make a slight change to the development agreement. If that does not work and they still have an issue
with the lowest story not being considered a basement, then it becomes a variance situation and a separate
application. Gaffron noted the City normally does not grant height variances.
McMillan noted the City also tends to avoid variances on new development.
Gronberg stated in the past they have gone off the grading plan for other subdivisions. Gronberg asked
how this can be avoided in the future
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Page 18 of 43
(9. #14-3687 REAL ASSETS II, LLC 3720 – 3730 NORTHERN AVENUE – PLAT OF
NORTHERN OAKS, continued)
Gaffron stated it needs to be clear in the future whether or not the developer is planning to create new
building pads as part of the development improvements as opposed to going lot by lot. Gaffron stated in
his view the City is better off approving a development agreement where it is clear that the developer is
creating new pads.
Gronberg stated sometimes in an effort to save trees, they like to wait until they get an actual plan in
before tearing out trees and building the pad.
Gaffron stated in this case all the trees were removed but they did not build the pads.
McMillan asked if the applicant would like the Council to table the application.
Todd Holmers stated they will see if the 8-foot ceilings work and then work with Staff to see if it can be
worked out. Holmers stated on the first two homes, they made the garages on the right and that they are
trying to switch up the garages a little bit, too. Holmers stated they were concerned because the first
couple that purchased a lot was adamant about 9-foot ceilings.
Holmers stated he would also like to add that he had those three plans done and into the City well before
this development was approved. Holmers stated he was shocked when he found out that they could not
get a permit for Lot 3 and that it was a big surprise to them after the fact.
Holmers noted they are doing the development in two phases because of the grading, and that they figured
as long as the guy was out there excavating, they would have him dig the pond. Holmers stated they went
ahead and did both of the retaining ponds but in the beginning it was Phase 1 and Phase 2, with all the dirt
being pushed from Lots 1, 2, and 3 to Lots 4, 5, and 6. Holmers stated all three of those plans were
submitted before to the work being done.
Gaffron asked if they were submitted prior to preliminary plat approval.
Holmers stated to his recollection they were. Holmers stated in his view they went above and beyond to
get those plans in as well as the color rendering on Phase 1 and that it was a surprise to them that it did
not work. Holmers stated they knew those two homes would sit lower but that they were not trying to
construct a house with three stories.
Walsh suggested they look at the 8-foot ceilings and see if that works.
Holmers stated he will do up something that shows an 8-foot ceiling for Lot 4. Holmers noted the plan
for Lot 3 was submitted a while ago.
Printup moved, Levang seconded, to table Application No. 14-3687, Real Assets II, LLC, 3720-3730
Northern Avenue, Plat of Northern Oaks. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Page 19 of 43
10. #15-3717 PAUL CAMERON/CAMBERLAIN CAPITAL, LLC – 1340 FOX STREET –
SETBACK VARIANCE – RESOLUTION NO.
Cornick stated on the northeast corner there is a retaining wall depicted and that he would like some
clarification on what is happening with the retaining wall.
Curtis indicated that will be taken out.
Cornick asked what will happen with the area once it is removed.
Cameron indicated they would like to remove it and then regrade the property.
Cornick moved, Levang seconded, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. , a Resolution Granting Variances
from Orono Municipal Code Section 78-420 for the property located at 1340 Fox Street. VOTE:
Ayes 5, Nays 0.
(Recess taken from 9:00 p.m. to 9:07 p.m.)
11. #14-3700 CITY OF ORONO – AMEND ZONING CODE – AMEND SECTION 78-1379:
WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS (WECS) FIRST REVIEW
Gaffron stated this is a proposed ordinance amendment in response to essentially a court case that
suggested the City of Orono needs to adopt ordinances that allow in some manner wind energy
conversion systems. The City adopted an ordinance last October that was a moratorium that lasted for
one year. The moratorium is still in effect.
Tonight the Council is reviewing some potential changes that currently ban wind energy conversion
systems. The Planning Commission has held two public hearings on this item and has heard comments
from some residents and a member of the wind energy industry that are included in the minutes.
The Planning Commission looked at the ordinance that they had recommended approximately one year
ago and made some potential changes to it. Those changes are reflected in Exhibit A. Since that time, the
City Attorney has reviewed the draft ordinance and made some additional comments, which are outlined
in Exhibit B.
Gaffron stated the Council should look at the exhibits and discuss the issues raised.
McMillan asked if the exhibits have all the comments received.
Gaffron indicated that is correct.
McMillan suggested they start on Page 1 and go section by section.
Gaffron stated the first page deals primarily with definitions. In most cases residential wind energy
conversion systems has been changed to small wind energy conversion system. The whole concept of
defining the difference between the residential and the utility wind turbines was using a 10 kV or 100 kV
name plate generating capacity, which is what Staff found other cities use.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Page 20 of 43
11. #14-3700 CITY OF ORONO – AMEND ZONING CODE – AMEND SECTION 78-1379:
WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS (WECS) FIRST REVIEW, continued)
State statute does not recognize a distinction. It says that there are small wind generators that are less
than 5000 kV and then anything over 5000 kV is regulated by the state and the city does not have a say in
how those are regulated. Gaffron stated the question to be answered is how the City would like to define
them.
In an attempt to understand the potential differences between a 10 kv, a 100 kV, or a 5000 kV, Staff has
looked at a number of other city ordinances. Wind turbines that generate electricity ranging from 10 kV
up to 300 kV are defined as small in many city ordinances. A number of the city ordinances stop at 10
kV and anything larger than 10 kV is not allowed in residential zones.
Planning Commission Exhibit A is a table that looks at a number of other cities’ ordinances, other
jurisdictions such as Des Moines, an MPCA model ordinance, and a model from Distributed Wind
Energy Association. Gaffron noted there is quite a wide range of standards in terms of what is allowed
and what limits are placed for residential wind turbines. From the perspective of Staff, a lot of what was
done in the early draft was mimic what was found in other city ordinances, which is not always the best
way to go.
Gaffron stated a number of cities have also defined an ornamental wind device as a decorative structure
that appears to mimic the appearance of a wind turbine as to the use of airfoils or other wind-capturing
devices but does not have electrical generating capability. Gaffron noted this definition has not been
included in previous drafts of the ordinance but has been included in the most recent draft. Gaffron stated
there is a question of whether the City would like to identify or recognize that there are wind ornamental
devices that do not generate electricity.
Mattick stated from a legislative and drafting city code perspective, the City can differentiate between
different wind turbines, but then the question becomes, why is there a differentiation. Mattick stated the
example he can give is if there is really no difference in terms of size and a 10 kV and a 100 kV both look
the same in size, from a land use perspective, then the question becomes, what is it that the City is
regulating between the two sizes. If the City knows for a fact that there is an increase in the intensity of
use or size issue, then the regulation makes sense.
Mattick stated the final thing is under utility wind energy conversion systems and that Staff will need to
refine that further. State statute says at 5000 kV and over the City does not get to regulate those and that
language will need to be included
Walsh stated as it relates to ornamental wind devices, the video that was presented to the City Council
shows the device spinning or moving and causing flickering even though it is not generating electricity.
Walsh asked if the Council should talk about anything that is spinning or moving rather than ornamental
from a flickering standpoint.
Mattick stated most people are familiar with the ornamental wind device and that there are some things
that spin and move that the Council is okay with. The Council may want to examine whether it is the
spinning that is the problem or the flickering. Mattick stated he is not sure if the Council would be able to
come up with a definition that covers all the moving pieces.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Page 21 of 43
(11. #14-3700 CITY OF ORONO – AMEND ZONING CODE – AMEND SECTION 78-1379:
WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS (WECS) FIRST REVIEW, continued)
Printup stated he is not comfortable with the paragraph on ornamental wind devices since it leads the way
into Alice’s rabbit hole.
Walsh stated it comes down to semantics.
Printup stated the City has been talking about this for a number of years and that it is all semantics.
Printup indicated he would lean towards eliminating that paragraph.
Walsh asked if a 10-foot pole that has something spinning on it would fall under accessory structures.
Mattick stated that would probably be viewed as an accessory structure.
Walsh stated those two items need to work in tandem then.
Mattick stated the current code does not really address flickering. Mattick noted the City’s lighting code
says the light must be downcast and not cause glare on neighboring properties. Mattick stated the
question is whether the Council cares about something that is spinning but not causing flickering.
Printup stated he does not see that as a bad thing.
McMillan stated the ornamental wind device definition could perhaps be eliminated and then perhaps
address the spinning, moving, or making noise under accessory use.
Walsh stated he would prefer to stick with wind energy exclusively and not ornamental devices. Walsh
stated the issues associated with accessory structures should be dealt with separately.
Mattick and Gaffron concurred that that approach makes sense.
McMillan asked if the Council is okay with the different residential definitions or whether they should be
combined into one, such as small wind.
Printup stated that makes sense.
Levang stated it does not appear that all the categories are necessary.
Mattick stated the ordinance does not differentiate between them as it relates to how they are regulated
and that Staff has struggled with the issue of whether a 100 kV wind turbine is bigger than a 10 kV.
Mattick stated it might take a bigger size windmill to generate more electricity but that he does not know
that.
McMillan suggested those two definitions be combined. McMillan noted the two tower definitions can
also be combined.
Levang stated one tower definition appears to be sufficient.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Page 22 of 43
(11. #14-3700 CITY OF ORONO – AMEND ZONING CODE – AMEND SECTION 78-1379:
WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS (WECS) FIRST REVIEW, continued)
Mattick stated the ordinance does not allow anything other than a mono pole so there is no need to define
what a tower is.
It was the consensus of the City Council to combine the two definitions.
Gaffron stated Section B, Item 6, talks about wind energy systems. Staff had started by limiting them to
less than 10 kV on lots at least 10 acres in gross area within the RR-1A and RR-1B Rural Residential
zoning districts. Gaffron stated the wording, wind energy conversion systems are not permitted in any
other zoning districts is probably not necessary, but that he would recommending adding the following:
Small wind energy conversion systems less than 100 kV are allowed in commercial and industrial zones
only by conditional use permit.
The Planning Commission had a discussion about allowing WECS in commercial and industrial zones
and the conclusion was that if they were going to be allowed in those zones, that they only be allowed by
a conditional use permit.
Walsh asked for an example of why they would not have the same restrictions as residential.
Gaffron stated there are very few commercial or industrial lots in the City that meet the 10-acre standard.
Walsh stated in his view 10 acres is an overreach.
Gaffron stated the second justification would be that all of the City’s commercial and industrial districts
are fairly close in proximity to residential zoning areas. Gaffron stated the question is whether there is a
potential to have a bigger wind turbine on a commercial piece of property than a residential.
Walsh stated he was attempting to find a reason to parcel them out for some reason.
McMillan stated the intensity of use could also be another factor.
Walsh stated the issues associated with setbacks and height are basically the same on residential lots as
they are on commercial. Walsh stated the regulations have to be reasonable enough that they allow the
potential for someone to have one and not be, in essence, a de facto ban.
McMillan noted they would be required to obtain a conditional use permit and that it is not a de facto ban.
Walsh stated it is a de facto ban is they cannot meet any of the conditions.
Printup stated as it relates to the 10 acres, that is something he has thought about a lot over the weekend.
Printed noted the judge made the comment “any person may have.” Printup stated he started to reflect on
that and asked himself whether that means any person on 10 acres or any person that has it reasonably set
back from a lot line, which may make it a 5-foot structure or a 2-foot structure. Printup stated in his view
requiring 10 acres is too much that and that he would take it lot by lot, which might be addressed later in
the ordinance when it talks about height.
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ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
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(11. #14-3700 CITY OF ORONO – AMEND ZONING CODE – AMEND SECTION 78-1379:
WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS (WECS) FIRST REVIEW, continued)
Gaffron stated in the very first paragraph it talks about limiting it to a lot of at least 10 acres. Gaffron
indicated what is on the overhead is an analysis that was done for the Comprehensive Plan five or six
years ago. In gray and yellow are the lots that are at least 10 acres in area and the green and orange are
two and five acre lots. Gaffron noted the map does not take into account wetlands and that there are quite
a number of properties out there that might meet the standard of 10 acres if it is simply the gross area.
Gaffron stated on the 10-acre lots, the question becomes, where can a wind turbine be located. Many lots
are not square and the shape could be such that they might not be able to place a WECS on the property.
Gaffron stated he also looked at a small area of the City west to northwest of Stubbs Bay, which is an area
that has quite a number of 5-acre lots as well as 10-acre lots. Gaffron indicated he looked at 30 to 50 lots
and only five or six were able to meet all the standards. Gaffron stated Staff can do a much more detailed
analysis to determine which lots would be able to meet the proposed standards or parameters. Gaffron
stated the other issue that comes into play is whether those sites are located in a woods or a depression
where there is not any wind.
As it relates to setback and height, the ordinance limits the total height to 45 feet with a blade height of no
more than 15 feet, which will not get above the tree line and will likely hurt the efficiency of the system.
Gaffron asked if the Council feels a 300-foot is acceptable when it is 45 feet high. Gaffron stated in order
for the wind turbine to be effective, it needs to be away from trees and buildings and will likely be visible
to the neighbors.
Gaffron stated there are a lot of factors that need to be balanced in determining whether a WECS is
appropriate in a specific location and that most cities have adopted an ordinance that says the setback
must be at least 1 or 1.4 times the height so that in case it falls over, it does not cross the lot line, which is
as far as most of the other cities’ ordinances take it.
Printup stated that is an important requirement. Printup stated in talking with the residents, he finds that
once they have a better understanding of the impacts, they understand the rationale for the setbacks.
Walsh asked what the Council thinks about reducing the lot size to two acres with a 1.2 or 1.3 setback and
with a maximum height of 45 feet. Walsh stated there also should not be any shadowing on anybody’s
yards or houses. Walsh stated all the elements need to fit together.
McMillan stated height and setbacks go together and that the height will help determine the necessary
setback. McMillan asked if the Council is okay with the 45-foot height limit.
It was the consensus of the City Council to go with the 45-foot height limit.
McMillan stated the other issue is the flicker and noted that reflected light can travel further than the fall
zone for the tower.
Levang asked if the fall zone is the 300 feet that the Planning Commission recommended or the 1.5.
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ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
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(11. #14-3700 CITY OF ORONO – AMEND ZONING CODE – AMEND SECTION 78-1379:
WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS (WECS) FIRST REVIEW, continued)
McMillan stated the issue with flicker depends on what the sun is doing and that she would be willing to
change the setback if it is on a bigger lot. McMillan stated on smaller lots there needs to be a fairly good
setback since they also generate noise in addition to flicker. McMillan stated there could also be an issue
with having a mechanical structure at eye level for the neighbor when they walk out on their deck.
Walsh stated on 2-acre lots, the person would still need to meet the setbacks and address the flicker.
Walsh noted there are companies that do flicker or shadow reports.
McMillan stated she would prefer to keep it simple and avoid requiring flicker reports. McMillan stated
if there becomes a demand for wind turbines, the standards could always be looked at again.
Printup indicated he does have a concern with possible flicker and that one possible solution would be
requiring the blades be painted with flat black paint. Printup stated the flickering can also change with
the seasons as well as the angle of the sun. Printup stated he is not sure where to stop with the idea of
flickering.
Walsh stated shadows from the wind turbines can also be an issue and that some cities prohibit the wind
turbines from casting shadows on neighboring properties.
Levang stated she would like to clean up 6(a) before the Council moves on. Levang indicated the
language says on lots at least ten acres in gross acre. Levang stated if gross area is allowed, the number
of the parcels that are yellow or cream colored that are depicted on the map would increase.
Gaffron stated there are probably more 10-acre properties than what is depicted on the map.
Levang stated in her view the 10-acre requirement is satisfactory and that she does not want to see a
reduction in the 10-acre requirement at this time. Levang noted the Council could look at possibly
reducing it in the future if there is a big demand for wind turbines.
Levang stated the City does have a lot of wetlands, which reduces the area that the wind turbine can be
located in. In addition, the person would need to meet the setbacks. Levang stated when you look at how
many homes in the city are clustered close together, it is because of wetlands. Levang stated her house
sits on 8.85 acres and that she can clearly see into her neighbor’s yard, who has 12 acres, as well as her
other neighbor’s house, who has 27 acres, and it is because the homes are clustered on the dry land.
McMillan stated wetlands are always bowl-shaped with no trees around. McMillan stated some of the
10-acre lots on Watertown are narrow.
Walsh stated someone is not allowed to build on a wetland.
McMillan stated wetlands create views and vistas and the ability to see long distances.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
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Page 25 of 43
(11. #14-3700 CITY OF ORONO – AMEND ZONING CODE – AMEND SECTION 78-1379:
WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS (WECS) FIRST REVIEW, continued)
Printup indicated he is okay with private property, private wells, and other items. Printup stated the
question becomes, who can say someone cannot have a 45-foot pole if it does not harm someone else’s
property. Printup stated based on that, he gets a little uneasy with limiting these only to the larger lots.
Levang stated she is not being afforded the same level of protection simply because she lives on a larger
lot even though she can see her neighbor just as well as someone who lives on a smaller lot.
McMillan indicated the Council can come back to the 10-acre restriction.
Gaffron stated Item B talks about residential WECS standards.
McMillan stated it appears everyone on the Council is okay with the height standards. McMillan
suggested the title be changed to WECS standards for residential zones.
Gaffron stated another standard included under residential WECS includes clearance, which requires a
minimum distance from the ground for the lowest point of a blade or any other moving part to be 12 feet.
Roof or wall mounted WECS would not be permitted. The conclusion of the Planning Commission
meeting was that they should be ground mounted and that roof or wall mounted presents a different visual
impact but there was not a strong reasoning for one versus the other. Gaffron indicated a number of other
cities do not allow roof or wall mounted.
Walsh indicated he is fine with that.
Gaffron stated the base of the WECS tower shall be set back at least 300 feet from all property lines.
WECS cannot be installed in the front yard of any lot or in the side yard of a corner lot adjacent to a
public right-of-way. It also cannot be located more than 150 feet from the principal structure on the
property. Gaffron stated the City Council would need to provide justification for that, but from a
technical standpoint, there may be some electrical or technical reasons why it should not be located too
far from the residence.
McMillan stated the person who owns the wind turbine will need to live with it more than his neighbors
but that it may be redundancy as it relates to the setbacks.
Levang stated essentially the 150 feet is subsumed with the 300-foot setback.
Gaffron stated every site will be different. An example would be a house that is located in the woods and
the site for a wind turbine is over 150 feet away.
Walsh stated the setback also dovetails with the acreage. Walsh stated if the 10-acre lot is a perfect
square, the property owner would have approximately 60’ x 60’ in the middle, which likely does not exist
and would essentially be a de facto ban.
Printup stated in his view that is not reasonable.
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ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
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Page 26 of 43
(11. #14-3700 CITY OF ORONO – AMEND ZONING CODE – AMEND SECTION 78-1379:
WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS (WECS) FIRST REVIEW, continued)
McMillan stated the Council could require a 100-foot setback if they would like to keep the requirement
of no more than 150 feet from the principal structure.
Walsh stated if you allow WECS on a 10-acre lot, the 100 feet might be reasonable, but that on a 5-acre
lot, it might not be reasonable.
Printup stated that is why he likes the fall zone.
McMillan stated the goal with the ordinance is to prevent people from placing a WECS close to their
neighbor’s property and them having all the disadvantages while the other person gets all the advantages.
McMillan stated the Council needs to be cognizant of that. McMillan stated it could also negative impact
the neighbor’s property values if the WECS is too close to the property line.
McMillan noted the City Council has discussed not allowing flag poles in the setback and that it comes
down to respecting your neighbors.
Walsh stated the Council needs to come up with a solution and not just talk about what is fair. Walsh
stated he likes the idea of requiring the WECS be close to their house.
Printup stated what is annoying or what other people find annoying is subjective but that he understands
what the others are saying.
Levang stated the neighbors should also not have to pay for what someone else wants. Levang stated it is
similar to a barking dog or chickens.
McMillan stated the Council is given the job to deal with these types of situations. McMillan stated the
closer people live together, the more regulations there are.
Levang stated the City has a responsibility to regulate WECS.
Printup noted the judge ordered that any person may have a wind energy system. Printup asked if that
means someone who lives in a developed controlled by a homeowner’s association can have one.
Mattick stated his understanding of the judge’s order is that not everyone has the absolute right to have a
WECS and that the City can impose reasonable restrictions through its zoning ordinances on wind
generators. Mattick indicated when he discussed this with Staff, they looked at the lot size and then
talked about the 300-foot setback. Mattick stated the 300 feet seemed untenable and it caused Staff to
evaluate what that number should be. Staff then discussed what the purpose of a setback and aesthetics.
Mattick stated other cities have fall distances anywhere from 1 to 1.5 times the height, which could be the
setback.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
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Page 27 of 43
(11. #14-3700 CITY OF ORONO – AMEND ZONING CODE – AMEND SECTION 78-1379:
WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS (WECS) FIRST REVIEW, continued)
Mattick stated the other point that was discussed as one of the reasons for the setback is the flicker or
shadow. Mattick stated one of the options is to require the person to provide a report that says they will
not disrupt the neighbors, which helps with the setback issue. Mattick stated another option is to require
the blades be painted black. Mattick stated if the Council feels it can address the items that cause the
need for a setback through other standards, they can do it that, which may eliminate the need for a
setback. Mattick stated the one issue that Staff was unable to come up with a solution to was how close
the WECS should be to a neighboring property.
Walsh questioned whether the 1.5 fall distance would also resolve the flicker issue.
McMillan stated it sounds like the Council may be open to reducing the setback.
McMillan stated as it relates to Item No. 10, nonintrusive color, she is totally in agreement with that, and
that she is okay with the system not being illuminated.
Gaffron stated as it relates to Item No. 11, the Planning Commission had some discussion about feeding
the grid or the neighborhood and their conclusion was that it should just be feeding the person’s own
home or the grid and not creating neighborhood systems.
McMillan asked if Staff wants the Council to pick one of the paragraphs under Item No. 14.
Mattick stated they would, and that in his opinion the second option creates a false sense of security.
Mattick stated the report could come back and say that it does impact the neighbor but it does not say they
cannot do that.
McMillan stated she prefers the first paragraph, but that instead of saying fall on or in, she would put
neighboring property instead of structure in case of a vacant lot. McMillan stated the intent is that the
shadow or reflective flicker should not fall on the adjoining property. McMillan stated the City Council
could always require a flicker report in the future.
Walsh asked who would determine whether there will be a shadow or a flicker on the neighbor’s property.
Mattick stated that still may require a report.
McMillan stated Staff will need to determine that.
Gaffron stated he prefers the third option, but that he would agree to changing it to neighboring properties
rather than structures. Gaffron indicated he also has no idea how much a flicker report costs.
Mattick stated there should also be some sort of consensus on what constitutes a flicker report.
Printup asked if the non-reflective surface would cover the flicker.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Page 28 of 43
(11. #14-3700 CITY OF ORONO – AMEND ZONING CODE – AMEND SECTION 78-1379:
WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS (WECS) FIRST REVIEW, continued)
Gaffron stated there could a flashing glare at certain times based on the type of turbine and where the sun
is located and then there is the shadow. Gaffron stated in his view that is what the Council saw in one of
the presentations, and that every time the blade passes in front of the sun, it causes a shadow.
Levang stated she likes what the City Attorney has written with the verbiage neighboring residential
property being inserted in there in place of structure.
McMillan noted Item 15 will be deleted relating to ornamental wind devices.
Gaffron stated the Planning Commission was not comfortable placing any standards for the
commercial/industrial WECS.
Mattick stated the other item for consideration is whether the Council is comfortable with having the
required acreage being smaller in commercial and industrial zones than residential zones. The
commercial and industrial zones are also identified as a more intense use area.
McMillan noted the City does not have that many commercial or industrial zones.
Gaffron indicated the commercial/industrial zone would primarily be near the Highway 12 area and that
many of those are located close to residential areas.
McMillan asked if Navarre is in the shoreland district.
Gaffron indicated most of it is in the shoreland district. Gaffron stated if the City does not allow WECS
in the shoreland, that would take out a significant part of Navarre.
Walsh stated he does not see any reason for lessening the standards for commercial or industrial since
they have to deal with all the same issues.
Printup stated he would stick with the fall zones since it is a little more relaxed.
Levang stated commercial is a more intense use and that there is the potential for more harm if the
apparatus fell, which may magnify the safety issue.
McMillan stated generally people associate wind turbines with being in the commercial or industrial areas
and that she could see maybe relaxing the acreage standard in industrial zones.
Walsh noted commercial businesses also tend to require higher power demands and that a wind turbine
would likely not help that to any great extent.
Walsh asked if the City could ban them in commercial districts.
Mattick stated that is a gray area but that it is not an outright ban. Mattick stated he does not believe
WECS have to be allowed in every district.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
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Page 29 of 43
(11. #14-3700 CITY OF ORONO – AMEND ZONING CODE – AMEND SECTION 78-1379:
WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS (WECS) FIRST REVIEW, continued)
Walsh stated one option could be to ban them in certain districts.
Mattick stated the more places the City allows them, the less likely it is the ordinance would be struck
down.
Gaffron stated as it relates to safety, standards and certification, the ordinance states that the WEC
systems shall meet minimum standards and must be certified. In addition, all grid connected systems
shall have an agreement with the local utility prior to the issuance of a building permit. If the WEC
system is abandoned or remains nonfunctional or inoperative for a continuous period of one year, the
system shall be deemed to be abandoned and shall constitute a public nuisance. Gaffron stated he also
does not have any idea whether the local utility companies have any interest in accepting electricity from
a WEC system.
Gaffron stated based on the discussion tonight, Staff can make some changes to the ordinance, but that the
Council will need to determine what an appropriate lot size and setback is. Gaffron indicated he can
bring back sketches of different sizes and shaped lots but that he is not sure how useful that will be.
McMillan stated in her view the 300-foot setback is too restrictive but that she is not sure what it should
be. McMillan indicated she likes the 10-acre lot size.
Levang stated she does not want these devices to impact the neighbors and that the clustering of the
homes need to be taken into consideration in addition to the lot size. Levang stated in her view the
answer has to be setbacks or size of lots but that in her view five acres is not the answer. Levang stated
she does not want to push this onto the backs of neighbors.
Walsh stated whatever the Council does, it has to be defendable in court.
Levang noted there is a significant number of five acre lots in Orono and that she does not want them to
be worried about a wind turbine being installed in their neighbor’s yard.
Cornick stated what is holding the Council back is not being able to decide on what size lot the turbines
should be allowed on. Cornick stated he likes the 10 acres because it simplifies things a little more.
Walsh indicated he does not agree with the ten acres but that he would go along with it to keep things
moving along.
Cornick stated the size of the lot could always be changed if the City finds it is not working.
Levang stated the City can always go down but it would be difficult to go up.
McMillan and Levang indicated they are both fine with requiring ten acres.
McMillan stated two good restrictions are the flicker and shadow not being allowed on neighboring
properties. McMillan stated they could have two setbacks, 100 feet from the property line and no further
than 150 feet from the house.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
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Page 30 of 43
(11. #14-3700 CITY OF ORONO – AMEND ZONING CODE – AMEND SECTION 78-1379:
WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEMS (WECS) FIRST REVIEW, continued)
Cornick asked if the Council should place some restrictions on how close it could be to the structure.
Cornick asked if someone could install one five feet from their house.
Gaffron stated under the City’s accessory structure ordinance, it would need to be ten feet away. Gaffron
indicated he has not seen any other city code that requires a setback to someone’s house for a WEC
system.
McMillan stated in her view that would be covered under the building permit but that Staff should
perhaps take a closer look at that.
McMillan asked if the Council has anything else on the commercial or industrial areas. McMillan stated
the City does not have a lot of commercial or industrial property.
Gaffron stated the industrial zone near Highway 12 consists of approximately 40 acres and only one of
those properties has more than ten acres. Almost all commercial properties within the City are within the
half-acre to three quarter acre.
McMillan suggested Staff make the revisions to the residential sections and that the Council can think
about the industrial/commercial areas.
Gaffron stated the revisions he has noted are the requirement of 10 acres, 100 feet to lot lines, and at least
within 150 feet of own house. Gaffron indicated he will make those revisions and mold the ordinance
around those standards.
Walsh noted the Council also talked about a flicker report or shadow and light report.
Mattick stated it would be helpful to talk to someone about what a flicker report covers.
Levang moved, Cornick seconded, to table Application No. 14-3700 , City of Orono, Amend Zoning
Code Section 78-1379: Wind Energy Conversion Systems (WECS). VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0.
12. #15-3708 CITY OF ORONO – AMEND ZONING CODE SECTION 78-1405(A)(8) –
STANDARDS FOR FENCES AS A NON-ENCROACHMENT
Gaffron stated the proposed amendment is intended to clarify how fence height is measured in order to
address the permanence of fencing materials and to establish standards for the use of temporary fences.
In addition, the average setback applicable to fence construction on lakeshore lots is clarified.
The Planning Commission reviewed various diagrams of how various fence configurations might be
measured and concluded that measuring fence height perpendicular to the slope rather than vertically. A
potential issue for discussion is that on a steeper slope it is not likely someone would build a fence with
angled posts.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Page 31 of 43
(12. #15-3708 CITY OF ORONO – AMEND ZONING CODE SECTION 78-1405(A)(8) –
STANDARDS FOR FENCES AS A NON-ENCROACHMENT, continued)
In measuring fence height, a question that was originally posed was what should be considered the top of
the fence. The amendment as initially drafted indicated that height should be measured from the top of
any part of the fence, including vertical structural supports, lattice, ornate top design elements, and so
forth. It was noted that a 6-foot screening fence with decorative post finials extending above it would
technically be out of compliance with this.
The Planning Commission concluded that limited finials above the top of the fence would be appropriate.
The result is an exclusion of post finials from being considered as part of the fence, plus proposed text
that states as follows: “Exception: post finials extending above the top of the fence shall not exceed 10
inches in width per finial and shall not extend above the top of the fence by more than 0 percent of the
allowed maximum fence height at that location. A 6-foot fence would be allowed a 7-inchy finial above
the top of the fence and a 42-inch fence would be allowed a 4-inch finial.”
As it relates to the average fence setback, existing code indicates a different way of defining the average
lakeshore setback line for fences than it does for other structures. The Planning Commission felt the
current terminology creates confusion and the line being defined for fences should not be called the
average lakeshore setback line. Staff is in agreement with that and the Planning Commission
recommended that term be removed.
The language now reads as follows: “Fences within the required side yard of a lakeshore lot shall not
exceed six feet in height, and shall not exceed 42 inches in height for any portion located lakeward of a
line drawn between the most lakeward projection of the fence owner’s principal residence structure and
the most lakeward projection of the principal residence structure on the adjacent property abutting the
side yard in which the fence is located.
As it relates to non-standard lakeshore lots, the following text is proposed: “When the building site of a
lakeshore lot is separated from the lakeshore by a public or private road, the following definitions will
apply for fence location purposes subject to the provisions of Section 78-1405(a)(8) a.2: When the yard
on the opposite side of the building site from the lake does not abut a street, such yard shall be considered
as a standard rear yard. The yard between the building site and the street shall be considered as a standard
front yard.”
The Planning Commission also recommended the following additional text to Subsection E, fence
construction and maintenance: “Fencing materials shall consist of permanent all-weather products.
Temporary fencing improvements, which normally consist of materials such as snow fencing, silt fence,
bio-retention logs or other types of products normally associated with construction projects, shall not be
allowed to remain on the property following final inspection, or issuance of a Certificate of Occupany for
a permitted construction project, or protection of property during a similar project or winter conditions.
Such temporary fencing materials shall not be allowed to remain on a permanent basis on a parcel.”
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Page 32 of 43
(12. #15-3708 CITY OF ORONO – AMEND ZONING CODE SECTION 78-1405(A)(8) –
STANDARDS FOR FENCES AS A NON-ENCROACHMENT, continued)
Gaffron stated at its January meeting, the Planning Commission held a public hearing on the proposed
amendment with no public comments forthcoming. The item was tabled upon Staff’s recommendation as
it was determined that the draft ordinance was incomplete and there were specific changes requested by
the Planning Commission. A revised draft ordinance was reviewed at a second public hearing held on
February 17. Following some revisions, the Planning Commission voted 5-0 to recommend approval.
Levang stated Staff and the Planning Commission has done a good job with the draft ordinance.
Walsh stated if someone would like a 4-foot fence rather than a 6-foot fence, he would allow a 7-inch
finial standard so they would be allowed on a lower fence.
Gaffron stated the proposed text reads as follows: “Exception: post finials extending above the top of the
fence shall not exceed 10 inches in width per finial and shall not extend above the top of the fence by
more than 10 percent of the allowed maximum fence height at that location.” Gaffron stated a 6-foot
fence would be allowed a 7-inch finial above the top of the fence and a 42-inch fence would be allowed a
4-inch finial. Gaffron stated to his understanding they would be allowed under the current language.
Walsh asked what the reasoning is behind the 42-inch fence versus a 6-foot fence. Walsh noted someone
would be allowed to plant a 6 or 7-foot fence.
Gaffron stated City Code for decades has defined which yards can have which fences and that he is not
sure why 42-inches was picked. Gaffron stated the way the Code has read is that someone can have a
6-foot high fence in a side yard, but on a lakeshore lot, that fence must be reduced to 42 inches. Gaffron
stated it comes down to a visual impact.
Walsh stated it seems to be a double standard since someone would be allowed a 6-foot shrub or bush but
not a 6-foot fence.
Walsh stated in his view permanent needs to be defined better as it relates to temporary fencing. Walsh
stated the City needs to separate it out from someone who might put out silt fencing to aggravate their
neighbor and that he would suggest placing a limit on it from October to March.
Gaffron asked if he is saying that snow fencing has a limited or seasonal time period.
Walsh indicated that is correct.
Gaffron noted he also talked about temporary fencing shall not be allowed to remain on a permanent basis
and that they need to define what permanent is.
Walsh stated permanent could be in the eyes of the beholder and that perhaps the City Attorney has a
better definition.
Mattick stated without a definition, permanent is rather open-ended. Mattick stated they perhaps could
get rid of the concept of temporary or permanent and simply have a limit on how long the materials are
allowed.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
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Page 33 of 43
(12. #15-3708 CITY OF ORONO – AMEND ZONING CODE SECTION 78-1405(A)(8) –
STANDARDS FOR FENCES AS A NON-ENCROACHMENT, continued)
Walsh stated the other item he would like to add is that anybody who has an existing fence can rebuild or
replace with a like, kind existing fence. Walsh stated in his view that would be fair. Walsh noted there is
also a state statute that talks about that someone can rebuild with a like, kind structure, and that he would
like to include that in the fence ordinance as well.
Mattick stated that is state law and that someone does have the right to replace something in like, kind and
quality.
Gaffron stated that can be added and that he would like to bring the draft ordinance back in two weeks.
Printup moved, Levang seconded, to table Application No. 15-3708, City of Orono, Amend Zoning
Code Section 78-1405(a)(8) – Standards for Fences as a Non-Encroachment. VOTE: Ayes 5,
Nays 0.
8:00 P.M. – HRA ANNUAL MEETING
HRA meeting was held after Item No. 19.
PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER’S REPORT
13. WATERTOWN ROAD AND STUBBS BAY ROAD
Edwards noted earlier today he sent the City Council a copy of some of the cost estimates for the
upcoming road projects. Edwards stated on the agenda tonight is Phase I of Watertown Road from
Stubbs Bay to Old Crystal Bay and then Stubbs Bay to Watertown Road South. The City Council
discussed last October that the project would be broken up into different phrases. At that meeting the
City Council approved engineering services for surveying, design, and bidding of reconstruction by
reclamation of Stubbs Bay Road.
Edwards indicated he has a couple of revised numbers from what was included in the packet based on
some information recently received from Bolton & Menk. The estimated costs for doing the section of
Stubbs Bay Road from Watertown Road to Bayside Road is $382,360, and the estimate for Watertown
Road from Stubbs Bay to Old Crystal Bay Road is $824,200. The revisions increased the number a little
bit for Watertown Road and decreased it for Stubbs Bay Road, which resulted in the overall cost going
down slightly.
Edwards stated Watertown Road is an MSA eligible road but Stubbs Bay Road is not eligible for MSA
funding. The funding sources for this project include $969,505 in MSA funding. Resources could also
be allocated from other funds, such as the General Fund Reserve, which currently has $346,071, and the
Permanent Improvement Revolving Fund, which has a balance of $820,000. Both of these projects also
include stormwater management and that portion of the project could come out of the City’s stormwater
funding.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Page 34 of 43
(13. WATERTOWN ROAD AND STUBBS BAY ROAD, continued)
Another road identified in the City’s CIP is Baldur Park Road. The initial engineer estimate for that road
is $223,917. The City has secured funding from FEMA in the amount of $59,223. Assuming that Stubbs
Bay Road is the priority project, there would be $142,000 that the City would still need to fund. Edwards
stated the most likely source of the funding would come from the Permanent Improvement Revolving
Fund, which currently has a balance of $820,000. Edwards noted if money is taken from that fund, it has
to be paid back. If that has to be paid back in 2016 and the City has to levy for that amount, it would
result in a 4.2 percent increase for every $100,000 levied. On a $600,000 home, the property owner
would see a $46 increase in their taxes for 2016 to pay for that $100,000.
Loftus stated part of the Baldur Park project consists of drainage improvements, which would also come
from the stormwater fund.
Edwards stated those costs are not significant and that they could perhaps use those funds for the curb and
gutter.
Loftus stated that portion would qualify for money from the stormwater fund and currently $40,000
would be available from that fund.
Edwards stated there are also some culverts that could be funded from that.
Walsh asked if Baldur Park Road is a total reconstruction.
Edwards indicated it is.
Walsh asked whether the City could do a reclamation on the City’s portion.
Edwards stated what he is recommending for Baldur Park is that the engineering work be completed to
assess what is underneath that road and then determine what the City’s possible options are. Edwards
stated it will depend on what is underneath the asphalt.
Loftus stated Staff did discuss Phase 2 and 3 earlier today and that they are looking at $1.2 million that is
still unfunded for next year.
Walsh stated there are a number of roads that are unfunded and that in his view some portions of Phase 2
may not be necessary. Walsh stated the portion of Watertown Road where the curve is located is in great
shape. Walsh stated he would like to spend the money smartly.
McMillan stated Long Lake will be asked to commit to the $133,000.
Edwards stated when the Council talked last October, they did make the deliberate decision that Phase 1
would consist of the most heavily traveled section of Watertown Road and the most damaged or the
section that is in the most need of repair would be in Phase 2. Edwards stated the overall funding for road
projects is scheduled to be discussed at a future work session.
McMillan stated she wanted to ensure the City had a funding source for Stubbs Bay Road.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Page 35 of 43
(13. WATERTOWN ROAD AND STUBBS BAY ROAD, continued)
Printup moved, Levang seconded, to approve the project design for Watertown Road and Stubbs
Bay Road and to authorize the solicitation of bids.
Walsh asked if there is a timeline for the project.
Martini indicated they are still waiting for comments back from MN/DOT, which they are hoping to
receive by the end of next week. Once MN/DOT signs off on the project, then they will authorize the
City to advertise for bids. Martini stated once the project is advertised, it is usually three weeks from the
first ad to the bid opening. The best case scenario is the second meeting in April or possibly the first
meeting in May.
Walsh asked if the ad could also be included in the Blue Book, which is distributed free to contractors.
Martini stated he would need to obtain that information from Council Member Walsh but that they could
include the ad in there as well.
There were no public comments on this item.
VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0.
14. BALDUR PARK ENGINEERING SERVICES
Edwards stated the proposal before the Council tonight is for engineering services. There is a not to
exceed fee that Bolton & Menk has proposed to do for the preliminary engineering up through design and
bid on this project. Edwards stated he would request the Council authorize Bolton & Menk to perform
that work. Edwards stated once that preliminary work is completed of the conditions on the site, he
would bring it back to the City Council before the final design work is started.
McMillan asked how many soil borings are anticipated on Baldur Park Road.
Martini stated four soil borings should be adequate and that they are attempting to determine how much
asphalt is there as well as the base. Martini stated one of the questions they are addressing is whether
they will need to start from the sub-base as well as how much pavement and aggregate exist on the
roadway.
McMillan asked if they are talking about starting from North Shore and reconstructing the entire road.
Martini indicated they are.
McMillan noted the manhole on the far north of the road has experienced quite a bit of heaving and asked
what that is related to.
Martini indicated that is likely due to the subgrade holding water. Martini stated they will need to look at
ways to shed the water but that it will be challenging due to the elevation of the road and the high water
table.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Page 36 of 43
(14. BALDUR PARK ENGINEERING SERVICES, continued)
McMillan asked what shape the sewer utilities are in underneath the road.
Martini indicated they will review that with the Public Works staff to see if any work needs to be done but
that he is not aware of this being a problem area.
Printup stated at the work session there was a discussion about different weight limits being posted.
Printup asked when the Public Works Director would like to discuss that.
Edwards stated if the Council wants to look at posting different weight limits on this road year-round, the
Council can discuss that at anytime. Edwards stated the road will need to be built back up to what it
should be regardless of any weight limitations that might be placed on the road after-the-fact. Edwards
stated the normal weight limits run from March until mid-May and that the City follows the state
guidelines. Edwards noted this is a residential street rather than a through street and that typically heavy
trucks would not be going down that road unless one of the residents is having some work performed.
McMillan asked why curb and gutter is being considered for this road since the City normally does not
install curb and gutter.
Edwards stated one reason for the curb and gutter is a request listed in a petition from the residents.
Other reasons for curb and gutter are potential aesthetics as well as implementing ways to control the
water that runs down that road. Edwards indicated he is not particularly set on curb and gutter at this time
but that an argument for curb and gutter at the beginning of the road could be made but further down it
might not be necessary. Edwards indicated they will be looking at that.
McMillan noted the City has done bituminous curbs in the past.
Edwards stated bituminous curbs tend to be more temporary and are damaged by the snow plows.
McMillan stated in the past the Council has felt that curb and gutter create more of an urban look rather
than rural, but that in this case it may be necessary to help direct the water.
Martini stated one issue involved with keeping the water from the lake off the road is that the curb and
gutter would provide a little more elevation if the water level of the lake raised. Martini stated they would
only put curb and gutter in if it aids in the diversion of water and not for aesthetics.
McMillan asked if there are any public comments regarding this item.
John Nyquist, 1432 Baldur Park Road, asked whether speed bumps could be placed in the roadway.
Nyguist stated the posted speed limit does not seem to help deter speeders.
Martini stated generally they try to create an environment that makes it uncomfortable for vehicles to
travel fast, such as narrower roads. Martini stated in this situation they are dealing with a dead-end road
and that the residents are aware of where the traffic is coming from and that they have some ability to
police it as a neighborhood. Martini stated he would recommend letting the natural environment help
curb the speeds.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Page 37 of 43
(14. BALDUR PARK ENGINEERING SERVICES, continued)
McMillan stated Orono is pretty good at having natural speed bumps all through the City and that the City
does periodically receive requests for speed bumps due to speed concerns. McMillan stated the City had
speed bumps installed in one area on Crystal Bay Road and that the residents had issues with them due to
the noise and vibration. McMillan stated she personally finds it hard to drive fast on Baldur Park Road
but that other people might not feel the same way. McMillan stated keeping the road narrow will help.
Printup moved, Walsh seconded, to direct Bolton & Menk, Inc., to commence survey testing and
design for the Baldur Park Road reconstruction project. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0.
15. NAVARRE STREET LIGHT AND SIDEWALK PROJECT – PAY REQUEST NO. 5
Edwards stated before the Council tonight is Pay Request No. 5 for the Navarre streetlight and sidewalk
project. Edwards stated the Navarre streetlight and sidewalk project is almost complete with the
exception of some punch list items that will be completed in the spring.
Walsh stated he wants to make sure enough money is retained to cover the punch list items.
Edwards stated there is, and that the few punch list items include some minor sidewalk corrections,
removal of some banner hangers on a light pole and a couple of other small items.
Walsh asked how much those items would amount to.
Edwards stated it probably amounts to $5,000 to $6,000 and that the City will be retaining $11,000.
Walsh moved, Cornick seconded, to approve Pay Request No. 5 for the contractor MP Technologies
in the amount of $17,040.29 for the Navarre Street Light and Sidewalk Project. VOTE: Ayes 5,
Nays 0.
*16. 2014 SANITARY SEWER REHABILITATION AND MANHOLE LINING – PAY
REQUEST NO. 1
Levang moved, Cornick seconded, to approve Pay Request No. 1 for the contractor Insituform in
the amount of $176,770.21 for the 2014 Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation & Manhole Lining Project.
VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0.
17. CYGNET AND CHEVY CHASE PARK STATUS
Printup stated he does not necessarily have a problem with changing the status on these two areas, but that
in the Comprehensive Plan it is labeled as undesignated open space. Printup stated the only concern he
had was whether there is the potential for future development if the City changes the designation of a
park. Printup noted he is speaking generally and not necessarily for these two parks.
Walsh stated it comes down to what are the consequences of doing this going into the future.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Page 38 of 43
(17. CYGNET AND CHEVY CHASE PARK STATUS, continued)
Levang stated Chevy Chase and Cygnet are drainage areas and not parks. Due to the topography, they are
essentially ravines and that development of those areas is not possible.
Edwards stated the concerns of the Park Commission were that these two areas are being advertised and
listed as a park and that there is the possibility the City will put park resources into them when there is no
recreational aspect to them. Edwards stated the City will continue to maintain them as drainage ways and
natural areas.
Levang stated people do go looking for them and are likely disappointed when they find out it is a ditch.
Printup stated his concern related to the more global picture and how the definition of parks may be
clawed back. Printup stated if the designations are changed periodically, it may open the door to future
development of those areas.
Printup moved, Walsh seconded, to approve removal of the Chevy Chase and Cygnet Parks from
the list of Orono Parks.
Levang stated she is wondering why he feels that the definition of parks will be clawed back.
Printup stated he has a concern with future Councils simply changing the designation.
McMillan noted the City holds the deeds to those areas. McMillan stated she does not remember these
two areas being a park when she was on the Park Commission.
Gaffron stated as it relates to Cygnet Place, it was dedicated to the City as part of the subdivision that was
done back in the 1960s. Gaffron indicated Chevy Chase is tax forfeited property that nobody wanted for
development because it was a drainage way. Gaffron stated those two areas probably should never have
been called a park.
VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0.
PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER’S REPORT, CONTINUED
Edwards reported the water plant rehab is currently underway and some heaters were replaced at the
Navarre treatment plant. The Public Works Department has also been keeping busy with tree trimming
and removal at the city-owned parks.
Edwards noted the seasonal road restrictions begin this Wednesday, March 11. The Public Works
Department will be posting the signs on Wednesday and the police department will begin enforcing those
restrictions on Thursday. Those will remain in effect until the state lifts their restrictions.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Page 39 of 43
*18. PARKS COMMISSION VICE CHAIR
Levang moved, Cornick seconded, to approve establishment of a Parks Commission Vice Chair and
to appoint Jan Berg to the Parks Commission Vice Chair position for 2015. VOTE: Ayes 5,
Nays 0.
*19. GOLF COURSE EMPLOYEE HIRE
Levang moved, Cornick seconded, to approve the hiring of Susan Burns as clubhouse assistant.
VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0.
HRA ANNUAL MEETING
Levang moved, Printup seconded, to recess the Orono City Council meeting at 11:11 p.m., and to
open the HRA meeting. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0.
(The City Council meeting was recessed from 11:11 p.m. to 11:13 p.m.)
Levang moved, Walsh seconded, to reconvene the City Council meeting at 11:13 p.m.
VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0.
MAYOR/COUNCIL REPORT
Walsh stated he attended a meeting at the Fire Department with representatives from seven other cities
where they were assessing the future possibilities of cooperation between the cities. Walsh stated the Fire
Department currently works together on equipment training but that they are looking at other potential
ways to cooperate with the local cities. Walsh indicated some of the smaller cities are experiencing some
issues with equipment costs and insurance ratings and that they are exploring entering into some type of
joint agreement so they do not need to acquire additional bigger equipment.
Levang sated the latest issue of the City’s newsletter has recently come out and that she has received lots
of good compliments about it already.
Levang reported she attended the Park Commission last week and that the Park Commission has assigned
one main commissioner as well as a backup person to every park. The Park Commission also discussed
possible changes to the website to make it more user-friendly and a meeting has been set up for Friday to
discuss that item.
Levang stated a meeting with the Navarre Initiative has been set up for Friday and that they will be
talking about the pop-up demonstration project and in particular the farmer’s market.
McMillan stated as it relates to the Whelan property access issue, she received a phone call from Former
Mayor Lou Oberhauser, who has been working with the Whelans on their access. That resulted in a
meeting with the City Attorney, Mike Gaffron and herself last week. McMillan stated at that meeting he
provided some information the City has not seen before, which was an access that was surveyed by
Surveyor Mark Gronberg located further west.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Page 40 of 43
(MAYOR/COUNCIL REPORT, continued)
McMillan stated that access is not as steep and that Staff will be looking at it. McMillan indicated that
item may be back before the City Council at the next work session.
McMillan stated the Long Lake Rowing Club also has a concern about access to their site due to the
construction at the old Billy’s Lighthouse property. McMillan stated it appears the rowing club will be
able to fit their boats in but that she asked Staff to look at what issues there might be if the rowing club
used Summit Beach. McMillan indicated Staff’s comments have been passed on to the group and that at
the present time it appears the Long lake Rowing Club will be continuing to use their usual site.
CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
20. REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) FOR COMPENSATION STUDY
Loftus stated the City Council has discussed employee compensation many times during the past two
budget years and that before the Council tonight is a request for proposals to conduct a compensation
study. The compensation study would assist the City in looking at internal and external equity as well as
demonstrate fiscal responsibility as it relates to employee compensation. Loftus stated it is an issue that
will probably need to be addressed with the 2016 budget and that the City Council has talked about
whether it would be worthwhile to look at those factors. Loftus stated this item is now before the Council
to see if they are interested in obtaining that type of information.
Loftus stated the three main elements of the compensation study are as follows: A job evaluation/pay
equity review, which is a state requirement; an external market analysis for non-union employees; and a
compensation structure review. Loftus noted the City has modified the step system a number of times
over the past few years to add steps and that Staff’s memorandum outlines the stated goal of the study as
well as the project components.
Loftus stated they would like to advertise for 30 days, with the results of the study being received
sometime in June prior to budget discussions.
McMillan asked when Staff normally completes their report.
Loftus stated the next report is due in January. Loftus indicated it usually takes a month or two to
complete the study so it will probably be finished by the end of December. Loftus stated it has been nine
years since the City’s point system has been updated and that the City has created some new positions
since that time. Loftus stated pay equity is based on job points and that the report would give the City the
methodology to calculate those points for a few years.
Levang stated it would seem after nine years the City needs to take a look another at it. Levang indicated
she is in favor of going forward with the RFP since it will take the City where it needs to go and that Staff
would appreciate the Council being proactive.
Walsh asked for clarification on the classification and compensation system testing that needs to be done
every three years.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Page 41 of 43
(20. REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) FOR COMPENSATION STUDY, continued)
Loftus stated that is one of the three elements of the study and that there is a state statute that the City is
required to comply with.
Walsh asked if the City is going above and beyond that.
Loftus stated the last time the point system was developed was nine years ago and that Staff is proposing,
given the new positions and the passage of time, that the City undergo this study to make sure the
methodology and point system is still accurate so that in December, when the report is started, the City is
meeting that requirement.
Walsh asked if the City would just need to fill out a report again.
Loftus stated the City has to fill out the report whether they go ahead with the study. Loftus indicated the
study would help the City know what the point system is and ensure that the methodology they are using
is correct.
McMillan stated the pay equity relates more to gender and that the study would show how Orono
compares to other cities in their compensation.
Walsh asked if anyone has any idea of what this would cost.
Loftus stated in looking at what other cities have done, Staff is anticipating around $15,000. In 2006 the
City Council approved $19,000 for the study but only one component out of three was completed since
there was a transition in the city administrator position.
Walsh stated he does not have a problem with having more information but that he wants to make sure the
City has the money to spend on the study. Walsh asked if the League of MN Cities already has this
information.
McMillan stated the City can decide not to do it after getting the RFPs.
Loftus stated the City has relied on the salary surveys that are available through the League of MN Cities
every budget cycle but that the League of MN Cities will not evaluate Orono’s job positions and provide a
point value. Loftus stated there are so many differences between cities that it is sometimes hard to
determine what you should be comparing the positions to.
Walsh asked how long this study would be good for.
Loftus indicated the study would be good for at least three to five years and that the City has used the last
analysis for the past nine years. Loftus stated the external market analysis will provide a good basis of
where the City wants to be in the market with the compensation. Loftus stated in her view it would be
helpful for Staff to know that paying market rate is important to the City Council but that Staff
understands they need to be fiscally responsible.
Walsh stated in his view the City is doing a good job since not a lot of people are leaving. Walsh asked if
Staff has been expressing complaints about the pay structure.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Page 42 of 43
(20. REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) FOR COMPENSATION STUDY, continued)
Loftus noted the City did just lose its public works director due to compensation. Loftus stated the
biggest issue is the disparity between the union and nonunion employees.
Cornick stated he does not see the need to include the police department since it is pretty much controlled
by the union.
Loftus stated the market analysis would exclude the police department but that the job analysis needs to
be done since the City needs to report on pay equity between men and women. Loftus stated the study
will assign a number to a police officer position, and as long as the City is paying men and women the
same amount for performing similar duties, the City is meeting the state requirement. Loftus stated the
study will not have a lot to do with negotiation.
Cornick asked how bound the City is to follow the results.
Loftus stated if the state finds inequities, the City would be bound to that and the state may assess fees.
As it relates to the compensation component, Loftus indicated she is in agreement that the union should
be left out and that the results could possibly have repercussions. Loftus stated compensation studies are
common in cities and employees are typically not excited about it since it could go either way.
Cornick stated if the City goes ahead and commits to it, then the City should agree to rely on the
information. Cornick stated the City cannot get the information and then ignore it.
Printup stated he likes the information gathering through an independent study as opposed to the League
of MN Cities because each city is providing the information and it could be manipulated; whereas, this
independent study cannot be.
Loftus indicated she is bringing this before the City Council now so they would have the results in time
for budget discussions.
Levang moved, Cornick seconded, to approve the advertisement of the Request for Proposals for
the employee compensation study. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0.
CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT, CONTINUED
Loftus noted Staff has met with Kraus Anderson and that they are in the process of creating a punch list.
Loftus stated following the recent improvements, the drainage in the parking lot appears to be much
better.
Loftus stated the City has received 18 applications for the community development position and that they
will be interviewing some of the candidates on Monday.
*21. ORONO POLICE GARAGE – PAY REQUEST NO. 6
Levang moved, Cornick seconded, to approve Pay Request No. 4 in an amount totaling $34,417.31
for the work performed on the Orono police garage. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0.
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday, March 9, 2015
7:00 o’clock p.m.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Page 43 of 43
*22. ACCEPT DONATION – RESOLUTION NO.
Levang moved, Cornick seconded, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. , a Resolution Accepting a
Donation from Gregg and Denise Steinhafel for use at Crystal Bay Park. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0.
*23. LICENSES & PERMITS – RESOLUTION NO.
Residential Kennel Licenses
1. Britt and Richard Gage
2180 Abingdon Way
2. Frank and Melissa Plachecki
3685 North Shore Drive
One Day Gambling Permit
1. Orono Baseball Association
Raffle held on May 2, 2015
Levang moved, Cornick seconded, to approve the above-listed licenses. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0.
Levang moved, Cornick seconded, to adopt RESOLUTION NO. , a Resolution Approving the
Minnesota Lawful Gambling Application for Exempt Permit of the Orono Baseball Association for
a One-Day Gambling Activity. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0.
*24. CLAIMS/BILLS
Levang moved, Cornick seconded, to approve payment of the All Funds Account. VOTE: Ayes 5,
Nays 0.
CITY ATTORNEY’S REPORT
Mattick stated he had nothing to report.
ADJOURNMENT
Printup moved, Walsh seconded, to adjourn the Orono City Council meeting at 11:40 p.m. VOTE:
Ayes 5, Nays 0.
ATTEST
____________________________________ _____________________________________
Diane Tiegs, City Clerk Lili Tod McMillan, Mayor