HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council - 08/07/2001 APPROVED MINUTES
EDEN PRAIRIE CITY COUNCIL
TUESDAY,AUGUST 7,2001 7:00 PM,CITY CENTER
Council Chamber
8080 Mitchell Road
CITY COUNCIL: Mayor Jean Harris, Councilmembers Sherry Butcher, Ron Case, Jan
Mosman, and Nancy Tyra-Lukens
CITY STAFF: Acting City Manager and Community Development and Financial Services
Director Don Uram, Parks & Recreation Services Director Bob Lambert, Public Works Services
Director Eugene Dietz, Management Services Director Natalie Swaggert, City Planner Michael
Franzen, City Attorney Ric Rosow and Council Recorder Peggy Rasmussen
I. ROLL CALL/CALL THE MEETING TO ORDER
Mayor Harris called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
H. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
M. COUNCIL FORUM INVITATION
Mayor Harris said Council Foram is held the first and third Tuesdays of the month from
6:30 — 6:55 p.m. in Heritage Room H. This will be scheduled time following City
Council Workshops and immediately preceding regular City Council Meetings. It is
important if you wish to visit with the City Council and Service Area Directors that you
notify the City Manager's office by noon of the meeting date with your request.
IV. RECOGNITION OF 4'OF DULY EVENT SPONSORS
Tria Mann expressed appreciation to the sponsors of the 0 of July event: Wells Fargo
Bank, BFI, Anchor Printing, John White of Pickled Parrot Restaurant, Von Maur
Department Store and Eden Prairie Center. The many volunteers were also thanked.
Mayor Harris thanked the staff for putting the event together.
V. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND OTHER ITEMS OF BUSINESS
Case added an item about the skate park, under XIV. A. Reports of Councilmembers.
Rosow added Employment of Acting City Manager, under XIV. A. In discussions
Rosow has had with Donald Uram, Mr. Uram said he was not willing to serve in the
position of Acting City Manager beyond two more weeks, so that agreement should be
removed from the agenda. Two items should be substituted: one to recommend that the
two Councilmembers dealing with this issue act as a search team to find an Acting City
Manager; and second, the Council should discuss how they want the process to go
forward in the search for a permanent City Manager.
MOTION: Butcher moved, seconded by Tyra-Lukens, to approve the agenda as
published and amended. Motion carried 5-0.
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Page 2
VI. MINUTES
A. CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD TUESDAY,DULY 10,2001
Tyra-Lukens noted that on page 13 the items after number 3 are numbered
incorrectly. She also made a correction in the heading of item 3, which should be
"Funding for Southwest Metro Transit . . ." Mayor Harris made a correction in
the heading of item 6,which should be"Pickled Parrot Restaurant. . ."
MOTION: Case moved, seconded by Mosman, to approve the minutes of the
City Council Meeting held Tuesday, July 10, 2001, as published and amended.
Motion carried 5-0.
B. SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING HELD MONDAY,JULY 23,2001
MOTION: Mosman moved, seconded by Butcher, to approve the minutes of the
Special Council Meeting held Monday, July 23, 2001, as published. Motion
carried 5-0.
VII. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. CLERK'S LICENSE LIST
B. HARTFORD COMMONS by David Bernard Builders and Developers. 2nd
Reading for Planned Unit Development District Review with waivers on 17.88
acres, Zoning District Change from C-Reg-Ser to RM-6.5 Zoning District on
17.88 acres, and Site Plan Review on 17.88 acres. Location: Southeast corner of
Prairie Center Drive and Prairie Lakes Drive extending to Rolling Hills Road.
(Ordinance No. 25-2001-PUD-15-2001 for PUD District Review and Zoning
Change and Resolution No. 2001-112 for Site Plan Review)
C. THE HERITAGE by Carlston, Inc. 2nd Reading for Planned Unit
Development District Review with waivers on 42.16 acres, Zoning District
Change from Rural to R1-13.5 Zoning District on 19.11 acres and from Rural to
RM-6.5 Zoning District on 23.05 acres, and Site Plan Review on 23.05 acres.
Location: Dell Road and Pioneer Trail. (Ordinance No. 26-2001-PUD-16-2001
for PUD District Review and Zoning Change and Resolution No. 2001-113
for Site Plan Review)
D. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 2001-114 APPROVING FINAL PLAT OF
HERITAGE PLACE
E. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 2001-115 APPROVING FINAL PLAT OF
HERITAGE VILLAGE
F. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 2001-116 APPROVING FINAL PLAT OF
SEVEN PINES
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G. VACATION OF RIGHT-OF-WAY FOR PART OF FRANLO ROAD
LOCATED ADJACENT TO BLUFFS EAST 17Tff ADDITION, VAC 00-99
(Resolution No. 2001-117)
H. APPROVE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH HTPO,
INC., FOR DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION SERVICES ASSOCIATED
WITH THE PROJECT,I.C. 01-5545
I. APPROVE CHANGE ORDER NO. 1 FOR HIGHVIEW DRIVE/
LAKELAND TERRACE AREA IMPROVEMENTS,I.C. 96-5406
J. APPROVE EXCEL ENERGY AGREEMENT REGARDING POWER
LINES ALONG TH 5/TH 312 BETWEEN MARTIN DRIVE AND
PRAIRIE CENTER DRIVE I.C. 93-5302
K. AWARD CONTRACT FOR WEST SIDE COOLING TOWER
REPLACEMENT
L. APPROVE LICENSE AGREEMENT TO LEASE SPACE ON THE CITY'S
COMMUNICATION TOWER TO GREAT RIVER ENERGY FOR A
WHIP ANTENNA
M. AUTHORIZE EXECUTION OF A PURCHASE AGREEMENT WITH
NORTH AMERICAN PROPERTIES FOR SALE OF LOT 2 BLOCK 1
EDEN PRAIRIE MARKETCENTER 2"' ADDITION (SINGLETREE
SITE
N. APPROVE ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS PERMIT FOR WETLAND
FILL ASSOCIATED WITH EXTENSION OF COLUMBINE ROAD TO
PRAIRIE CENTER DRIVE
O. APPROVE AMENDED JOINT AND COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT FOR
SOUTHWEST SUBURBAN CABLE COMMISSION
MOTION: Tyra-Lukens moved, seconded by Mosman, to approve Items A-O on the
Consent Calendar. Motion carried 5-0.
VIH. PUBLIC HEARINGS/MEETINGS
A. BLUFFS EAST 17TH ADDITION AMENDMENT by Hustad Land Company.
Request for Planned Unit Development Concept Amendment on 5.78 acres,
Planned Unit Development District Review on 5.78 acres, Zoning District
Amendment within the RM-6.5 Zoning District on 5.78 acres, Site Plan Review
on 5.78 acres, and Preliminary Plat of 5.78 acres into 23 lots. Location: South of
Pioneer Trail at Franlo Road. (Resolution No. 2001-118 for PUD Concept
Amendment, Ordinance for PUD District Review and Zoning District
Amendment, and Resolution No. 2001-119 for Preliminary Plat)
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Uram said official notice of this public hearing was published in the July 26,2001
Eden Prairie News and was sent to 154 property owners.
Paul Korberg, Hustad Land Company, said in June 2000, they originally
submitted to the Community Planning Board a plan for three alternatives for the
site. The Planning Board, along with neighbors, indicated the senior housing plan
or the townhouse plan would be the preferred choices, and 32 two-story
townhouse units were approved by the Planning Board in September 2000. In
November 2000, the City Council approved the 32 units. However, the builder,
The Bluffs Company, has proposed some changes. He introduced Beth
Simonstead,representing Wooddale Builder.
Beth Simonstead, representing Wooddale Builders, said the builder is requesting
an amendment to the plan, which would include 22 lots and one common space
lot on 5.8 acres. They are requesting a reduction in density from 5.5 units per
acre to 3.8 units per acre, and from 32 to 22 units. They are changing the plan
from two-story to one-level townhouses. More green space and more guest
parking will be available, providing one space for every two units. There will be
five four-unit building and one two-unit building. Units will be priced at
$250,000-$375,000. Exterior materials will consist of brick or stone and stucco,
aluminum siding, fascia and soffit. Setbacks in the rear yard are reduced from 40
feet to 35 feet. There are two water quality treatment ponds. The storm sewer
will discharge into the Hennepin County system along County Road 1. The tree
replacement is proposed at 272 caliper inches. The south property line is adjacent
to existing homes, and plantings there will be Colorado and Black Hill spruce.
Along the rest of the perimeter of the property plantings will be spruce, maple,
pine, ash and linden. The plan for the monument will be similar to what is seen at
Settler's Ridge.
Franzen said the Community Planning Board voted 8-0 to recommend approval to
the Council at its June 25, 2001 meeting. The proposed 22-unit plan meets City
requirements for setbacks,parking, landscaping, exterior materials and drainage.
Mayor Harris asked if anyone wished to address the Council on this proposal. No
one did.
MOTION: Case moved, seconded by Butcher, to close the public hearing; and
adopt Resolution No.2001-118 for PUD Concept Amendment on 5.78 acres; and
approve lst Reading of the Ordinance for PUD District Review and Zoning
District Amendment within the RM-6.5 on 5.78 acres; and adopt Resolution No.
2001-119 for a Preliminary Plat on 5.78 acres into 23 lots; and direct Staff to
prepare a Developer's Agreement incorporating Staff and Board
recommendations; and direct Staff to issue a land alteration permit to the
Developer to proceed with construction at their own risk. Motion carried 5-0.
B. RIDGEVIEW TECH BUILDING by Mount Properties, Inc. Request for
Planned Unit Development Concept Amendment on 1.6 acres, Planned Unit
Development District Review with waivers on 1.6 acres, Zoning District
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Amendment within the Office Zoning District on 1.6 acres, and Site Plan Review
on 1.6 acres. Location: 7544 Market Place Drive. (Resolution No. 2001-120 for
PUD Concept Amendment, Ordinance for PUD District Review and Zoning
District Amendment)
Uram said official notice of this public hearing was published in the July 26,2001
Eden Prairie News and was sent to 21 property owners.
Steve Michals, of Mount Properties, Inc. said the site is located at 7544 Market
Place Drive in Bryant Lake Center. The request is to build a single-level, 18,820-
square-foot office building. They will have access off Market Place Drive and
through the existing business park. Parking would be on the north and west sides
of the property, with 94 parking spaces. Landscaping would be on the north and
west property lines. A retaining wall, averaging 4-to 6 feet,would be built on the
east side. The building exterior would be 75 percent brown brick.
Franzen said this is an amendment to an approved plan. The Community
Planning Board voted 8-0 to recommend approval of the project at the June 25,
2001 meeting, subject to revisions for rooftop mechanical equipment screening
and signs, which have been completed. There are two waivers requested: one for
building setback and one for parking setback. These are consistent with the
previous approvals granted in 1999 and 1980 as part of the original PUD. The
plan meets all city requirements for parking, setbacks, drainage, and exterior
materials.
Mayor Harris asked if anyone wished to address the Council on this proposal. No
one did.
MOTION: Tyra-Lukens moved, seconded by Butcher, to close the public
hearing; and adopt Resolution No. 2001-120 for Planned Unit develop Concept
Amendment on 1.6 acres; and approve lst Reading of the Ordinance for PUD
District Review with waivers on 1.6 acres and Zoning District Amendment within
the Office Zoning District on 1.6 acres; and direct Staff to prepare a Developer's
Agreement incorporating Staff and Board recommendations. Motion carried
5-0.
C. GIRARROSTO TOSCANO RESTAURANT by Girarrosto Toscano, Inc.
Request for Planned Unit Development Concept Amendment on 1.66 acres,
Planned Unit Development District Review with waivers on 1.66 acres, Zoning
District Amendment within the C-Reg-Ser Zoning District on 1.66 acres, and Site
Plan Review on 1.66 acres. Location: 12365 Singletree Lane. . (Resolution No.
2001-121 for PUD Concept Amendment, Ordinance for PUD District Review
and Zoning District Amendment)
Uram said official notice of this public hearing was published in the July 26, 2001
Eden Prairie News and was sent to 14 property owners.
Len Ghilani explained this proposal is for an Italian-American supper club
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specializing in steaks and pastas.
Joe Hamilton, from Ellerbee Beckett, said the existing restaurant is Doolittles,
with 6,500 square feet. The addition will be 2,987 square feet and a remodeling
of Doolittles. There is a new concept opportunity with the existing exterior. The
exterior is currently mostly brick and stucco. The proposed addition will be a
combination of stacked brick and horizontal stone. There will be a canopy over
the entrance with curved stainless steel. Of the 280 seats in the restaurant, 40 of
those are in the bar/lounge area. Total parking would be 109 spaces. The
location has an agreement with the neighboring facility for overflow parking.
Tyra-Lukens asked if they would serve dinner only. Ghilani said yes.
Franzen said the proposal meets all City requirements for the commercial zoning
district. The Community Planning Board voted 8-0 to recommend approval of the
project at its June 25, 2001 meeting.
Butcher asked who would be responsible for snowplowing of the additional
parking area. Franzen said there is a perpetual cross-parking and maintenance
agreement between the two properties so they would share in maintenance and
snowplowing.
Mayor Harris asked if anyone wished to address the Council about this proposal.
No one did.
MOTION: Mosman moved, seconded by Butcher, to close the public hearing;
and adopt Resolution No. 2001-121 for PUD Concept Amendment on 1.66 acres;
and approve 1st Reading of the Ordinance for PUD District Review and Zoning
District Amendment within the C-Reg-Ser Zoning District on 1.66 acres; and
direct Staff to prepare a Developer's Agreement incorporating Staff and Board
recommendations; and direct Staff to issue a land alteration permit, demolition
permit, and footings and foundation permit to the Developer to proceed with
construction at their own risk.
Butcher commented that this will be a great addition of an up-scale restaurant in
the Market Center area.
Motion carried 5-0.
D. ALM SUBDIVISION by Stephen and April Alm. Request for Preliminary Plat
on 2.06 acres into 2 lots. Location: 16480 Hilltop Road. (Resolution No. 2001-
122 for Preliminary Plat)
Uram said official notice of this public hearing was published in the July 26,
2001,Eden Prairie News and was sent to 40 property owners.
April Alm said they wish to divide a 2.06-acre lot into two single-family lots.
One would have two-thirds of an acre and the other the remainder of the 2.06
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acres. They plan to put a new house on the larger one that they would occupy,
and they would sell the existing house and lot.
Franzen said this project took some time at the Planning Board meeting, because
neighbors in the area were questioning how the location of the new house would
help or hinder future road location and utilities. City staff held a meeting with the
Eden Heights neighborhood on June 27. It was learned there will possibly be a
new location for an east-west road along the north property line, so the home
should be a minimum of 55 feet from the north property line. At the July 9, 2001
meeting the Community Planning Board voted 8-0 to recommend approval of the
project with two possible locations for the new house. Either location would
allow the opportunity to create two additional lots in the future and a road along
the north property line. City sewer and water do not serve this neighborhood;
however, the proponent will extend City sewer from the west to serve the existing
and proposed house.
Mayor Harris asked if anyone wished to address the Council on this project. No
one did.
MOTION: Butcher moved, seconded by Tyra-Lukens, to close the public
hearing; and adopt Resolution No. 2001-122 for Preliminary Plat on 2.06 acres
into 2 lots; and direct Staff to prepare a Developer's Agreement incorporating
Staff and Board recommendations and any Council conditions.
Case said he would like to hear whether this proposal is coming with staffs
recommendation or not. If not,why, and if so,why. Franzen replied there is staff
recommendation for approval for dividing the property into two lots that would
not preclude relocation of the road in the future.
Motion carried 5-0.
E. PROPOSED REFUNDING OF PARK AT CITY WEST APARTMENTS
HOUSING REVENUE BONDS (Resolution No. 2001-123) (Continued from
June 19,2001)
Uram said official notice of this public hearing was published in the May 17,
2001 Eden Prairie News. Section 147(f) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986
requires that the Council hold a public hearing for the purpose of receiving
comments on the proposed issuance of up to $14,905,000 principal amount of the
housing revenue bonds to refund the housing revenue bonds issued by the City in
1990 on behalf of Park at City West Limited Partnership for the development
known as Park at City West Apartments. The proposed refunding would reduce
debt service costs for the development. The Council is also being asked to adopt
a resolution authorizing the refunding and the issuance of refunding bonds.
Mayor Harris asked if anyone wished to address the Council about this refunding
of housing revenue bonds.
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MOTION: Butcher moved, seconded by Tyra-Lukens, to close the public
hearing; and adopt Resolution No. 2001-123 under Minnesota Statutes, Chapter
462C, authorizing the issuance of up to $14,905,000 in aggregate principal
amount of its Multifamily Housing Revenue Refunding Bonds (Park at City West
Apartments Project), Series 2001, approving the forms thereof, and authorizing
the execution of various documents relating thereto. Motion carried 5-0.
IX. PAYMENT OF CLAIMS
MOTION: Case moved, seconded by Mosman, to authorize Payment of Claims.
Motion was approved on a roll call vote,with Butcher, Case, Mosman, Tyra-Lukens
and Harris voting"aye."
X. ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS
M. PETITIONS,REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS
XII. REPORTS OF ADVISORY BOARDS & COMMISSIONS
A. PURGATORY CREEK RECREATION AREA PLAN
Sue Stock, Chair of the Purgatory Creek Recreation Task Force, gave the list of
members and a history of the task force. Members were Jan Mosman, Vicki
Koenig, Harry Moran, Therese Benkowski, Susan Dickman, Terry Randolph and
Pat Richard. The first meeting was in February, interviewed two consultants and
selected SRF to be the consultant group. In March 2001 the task force began
meeting with consultants from SRF to develop program needs, review
Community Forum and Community Survey results, and discuss past plans for this
site. In April the consultant developed the program and four conceptual designs,
which they presented to the Community Program Board,the Parks and Recreation
Commission, and received feedback from them on those four program concepts.
In May it was presented to the City Council, and received comments from
Councilmembers. At the June 18 meeting, the task force unanimously approved
the schematic design for the recreation area, and requested the consultant and staff
to take the plan through the design review process for final approval by the City
Council. On June 26 the Program Board and Parks and Recreation Citizens
Advisory Commission held a joint meeting to review the plan, and unanimously
approved it. On July 9 the Planning Board reviewed the plan and unanimously
approved it. On August 1 the Riley Purgatory Bluff Creek Watershed District
unanimously approved the plan.
Barry Warner, the City's design consultant from SRF for the Purgatory Creek
Recreation Area, said they have gone through a fairly lengthy process and
believed it is one that can be carried through to implementation. The task force
identified a program theme and park amenities. Following that, they developed a
preferred schematic master plan and preliminary estimates for phasing costs and a
plan for implementation. The Purgatory Creek Recreation area is housed within
the 225-acre wetland. The actual park area is about seven acres. As part of a
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broader project that will incorporate input from the watershed district is a multi-
use trail that will encircle the complex for 2-1/2 miles. The park would be located
at the intersection of Technology Drive and Prairie Center Drive. The wetland
basin will be excavated this year. It is an incremental part of the whole project,
because it will serve as a cleaning element as the water flows through. A drainage
ditch runs down the middle of the area.
Park program amenities include entry monuments at two principal access points,
parking for 50- to 60 cars, a multi-purpose building, an open-air pavilion,
r
waterfront edge treatment, pedestrian pathways, bridge crossings, overlooks, a
fountain feature, sculptures, an open lawn terrace and formal garden area. Warner
showed the site plan with all of these amenities and where they would be placed.
The parking area could be used for City events, festivals, etc. and brick pavers
were suggested rather than a bituminous surface. The task force strongly
recommended altering the access so it would be aligned with the north arm of the
roadway into the Park and Ride location off Technology Drive. That intersection
could be signalized so there would be safe pedestrian crossing.
Ken Grieshaber of SRF listed the various site amenities. The monument would be
at the corner of Technology Drive and Prairie Center Drive, and would be a steel
structure with the circle design seen throughout the City. The multi-use building
at the water's edge could be from 5,000 to 10,000 square feet, with a meeting
room to accommodate from 50 to 100 people, and could possibly have a
restaurant, concessions, etc. The architecture could create a unique character for
the park. There would also be an open-air pavilion that would overlook the water.
The water's edge treatment could be either a boardwalk or pavers, and would
have a railing along the water's edge. There would be a long pedestrian
promenade to connect to Opus for outdoor events or festivals. There could be a
fountain to create a sense of entry into the wetland ponding area. At the end of
the promenade they are proposing to build an overlook which would extend 70 -
to 80 feet over the water. Wildlife sculptures could be placed throughout the
park. A formal garden, such as a perennial or rose garden has been discussed.
Phase 1 would consist of site grading, constructing an entry drive and lighting,
storm sewer piping, a pathway connection, ponding connection, and grading for
future park amenities. Phase 2 would consist of the entry monument,parking lot,
more path connections, a boardwalk and lighting, a retaining wall, waterfront
terrace fountain and landscaping. Phase 3 would consist of the upper terrace walk
and lighting, boardwalk overlook, terrace stairs to boardwalk, open-air pavilion,
path connections and landscaping. Phase 4 would consist of the formal gardens,
multi-use building and plaza, dike, boardwalk crossing and overlook, dike
landscaping and lighting.. The total project cost would be$7,232,810.
Mosman said the whole site has been pulled together beautifully. She wondered
about the possibility of saving some of the cottonwood and willow,trees until the
last phase, after the new trees are planted. Lambert replied he wouldn't be able to
answer that until they have a grading plan to see how they will have to move the
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dirt and where the alignment for the culvert will be. Most of the trees are on top
of the ditch and then go down into the ditch where the culvert is. The most
effective way for them to create a pad is to grade the entire area now, and even
have a little surcharge over everywhere there are going to be buildings. If there is
going to be a building over where the existing ditch is, as shown on the plans,
they will want to put as much fill over that for as long as possible so they can get
by with the least amount of piling. If they wait until right before the building and
plaza are constructed and then fill that on very bad soils, it would have to be
surcharged for at least several years. It will be difficult to do, but they can see if
some of those perimeter trees on top can be saved. He couldn't promise anything
at this point.
Case said asked about funding options. Lambert said the City petitioned the
watershed district for what was called the Purgatory Creek Recreation Area -
Staring Lake outlet project in 1991. The plan was all part of the water quality
improvement project to improve the quality of water at Staring Lake and
eventually to the Minnesota River. The watershed district estimated their cost
was about$3 million;the City's share would be$1.2 million,using TIF financing.
With that$1.2 million,the City will pay for its share of the trail system around the
entire area, its share of the dredging and edge treatment. But the development of
this park will have to come from other funding. The City has no money other
than the TIF funds for the $3 million- $5 million the project will cost the City. It
will probably take a referendum to create a large amount of money. This is one
project that will be discussed at a Council CIP workshop in two weeks.
Lambert said he was asking the Council to authorize the consultant to complete a
more detailed design and to prepare plans and specifications, so the City can
proceed to go to bid this fall with the watershed district. They would like to have
the first phase done, including dredging, as one project. It should be at least
graded with an edge and a trail system, so people can use it as a park site that just
needs to be developed. Phasing of landscaping can be done out of the nursery
over the next few years until funding for the next phase is available. He could see
some additional steps that would be needed. The City will have to work with the
watershed district regarding funding sources from them and the City, and the
timing. The City needs approvals for trail easements from the property owners. It
hopes to do that this fall so the trail can be constructed next spring. All of the
permitting agencies have approved the preliminary concept but will need to
approve changes. The City's next public involvement process ought to be some
more evaluation and study of the design of the garden and building, and
programming for the building. A recommendation was made to the Eden Prairie
Foundation about possibly funding some of the amenities, like the sculptures,
fountain or entry monument. They had many questions about the programming of
the building and thought it would be a good place for an art center. Many people
in the community are excited about this project and want to keep moving on it.
MOTION: Mosman moved, seconded by Tyra-Lukens, to approve the design
and authorize the consultant to work with Barr Engineering (engineering
consultant for the watershed district) to prepare plans and specifications for the
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first phase development. The first phase is to include the boardwalk and retaining
walls depicted in the second phase of the preliminary cost estimates. Motion
carried 5-0.
B. ADAPTIVE REUSE OF THE SMITH HOUSE FOR USE AS A
COFFEEHOUSE
Lori Peterson-Benike, Chair of the Heritage Preservation Commission (HPC),
addressed the Council, stating that the HPC has discussed what the Smith-
Douglas-More House could be used for, and referencing the fact that the City has
received a Preliminary Proposal from Dunn Bros. Coffee to use the Smith House
as a coffeehouse. The HPC's requested action would be to ask the Council to
authorize City staff to negotiate with Dunn Bros. Coffee for adaptive reuse of the
Smith House for a coffeehouse. Staff recommends the Council allow time to
complete negotiations before the City paints or restores the exterior of the house.
The City Council adopted the HPC's Adaptive Reuse recommendations for the
Smith House on July 18, 2000. The HPC had recommended two options: the
first, to rehabilitate the house for reuse as a commercial site with the City
retaining ownership; the second, to rehabilitate the house for either commercial or
residential use, sell the property, and guide the restoration process to ensure the
house retains its historic character. The HPC recommended the City Council
adopt option one.
In August 2000, the City Council directed staff to solicit marketing proposals for
the Smith House from real estate professionals. No proposals were received by
the City. However, there was interest in the property, but by most accounts, not
enough time allowed to prepare proposals. Dunn Bros. Coffee had also received
the Request for Proposals, and while they were interested in the site, they did not
feel they could respond to the specific market feasibility or lease concerns in the
City's request. HPC member Art Weeks had recommended Dunn Bros., citing
their successful experience with reuse of historic and non-historic building space
for coffeehouse use. Dunn Bros. has remained interested in the Smith House and
on June 28, 2001, Chris Eilers, President of Dunn Bros. Coffee, met staff at the
house to tour the site. Mr. Eilers recently forwarded a letter to the City that serves
to notify the City of Dunn Bros. interest in the site.
In addition to Dunn Bros., a local realtor met with staff at the Smith House on
July 17, 2001. His interestes in the property are similar to Dunn Bros. regarding
reuse,but would favor ownership in the property.
Recent cost estimates for exterior restoration of the house total $233,117, to
"button up" the house to protect it from the elements, which reflect the
considerable rise in construction costs in the last year, and the extent of repair
and/or replacement now needed to restore the exterior of the house. To get the
house structurally sound would cost considerably more.
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Mayor Harris said if Dunn Bros. can adapt the house for use as a coffeehouse,this
is a charming site and there is an interest in coffeehouses.
Case said he found this proposal very exciting and is along the line of what all of
those on the Council had wanted for the site. There are some items of
maintenance that cannot go through the winter. He would like to add to the
motion that the staff come back in one month with an update on negotiations with
Dunn Bros., and give the Council a list of absolutely necessary repairs that have
to be done before winter. He didn't know who would pay for these repairs, but
perhaps that would be part of the contract with Dunn Bros.
Butcher said she supported adaptive reuse wholeheartedly. It will be an
interesting balance to achieve in working with an historic site on this project.
Until a contract is signed, it would be prudent not to lose the other interested
party, in case negotiations with Dunn Bros. Coffee don't work out. She would be
glad to bring a coffeehouse to the site, and could not imagine a better situation.
Butcher said Dunn Bros. has had experience in converting older houses in St.Paul
that have been highly successful, in a neighborhood of homes where people can
walk to the coffee shop.
Mosman referenced the amount of parking. Looking into this last year, she found
there is room to expand the existing parking lot behind the house. Butcher said
there is a business contiguous to the site, and they talked about sharing their
parking area. It would be a good idea to have a conversation with them soon.
Mosman asked Peterson-Benike what types of controls the HPC would have
regarding what happens with the house, and also what the HPC sees as the most
important things that have to be done first.
Peterson-Benike replied that the HPC would be involved every step of the way,
and is asking the Council to direct City staff to set up an initial meeting with
Dunn Bros. She believed the company would submit a proposal, and let the City
know what they need in terms of signage, access, parking, etc. The HPC would
have to approve their plan,issue a site-alteration plan, and submit it to the Council
for approval. Communication would be very important to the HPC. As far as
things that need to be done immediately, there are vegetation and vines that are
damaging the house and need to be removed. That could be done right away.
The porches are in need of repair and painting. However, it is important to have a
discussion with Dunn Bros. before doing that work, so it doesn't impact what the
company plans to do. This is very important to the City and the HPC. The
Miller-Dunwiddie study indicates what exterior work needs to be done quickly.
Uram said Dave Lindahl talked to Chris Eilers regarding timing of the project.
Dunn Bros. is excited about doing it,but from a timing standpoint they have other
projects to complete before starting to look at this one. The City expects to
receive a more detailed proposal from them within the next month, laying out a
time schedule when they would start to look at this. At this point, Eilers indicated
this would be a project for next year. The City needs to be realistic about repairs
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
August 7,2001
Page 13
that need to be done, and what the expectations are to get this project underway.
The staff will forward the next proposal from Dunn Bros. as soon as it is received.
MOTION: Case moved, seconded by Mosman, to authorize City staff to
negotiate with Dunn Bros. Coffee for adaptive reuse of the Smith House for use
as a coffeehouse, and have staff come back in one month with a negotiations
update and a must do critical list of repairs, with cost estimates, that need to be
completed before the onset of winter. Motion carried 5-0.
XIII. APPOINTMENTS
A. CITY AND SCHOOL FACILITY USE ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Laurie Obiazor, Manager of Recreation Services and staff liaison for the
committee, reported that on July 24, 2001, the Community Program Board and
the Parks and Recreation Citizen Advisory Commission had a joint meeting to
seek appointments to the City and School Use Advisory Committee. Susan
Oswald from the Community Program Board and David Larson from the Parks
and Recreation Citizen Advisory Commission were selected as the nominees.
The City and School Facility Use Advisory Committee advises the School Board
and the City Council regarding city and school facility usage in Eden Prairie with
the objectives of maximizing citizen satisfaction, encouraging efficient use of
facilities and delivery of programs, and minimising facility use charges to the
City or School District. Council approval of the nominees is sought.
MOTION: Tyra-Lukens moved, seconded by Butcher,to appoint Susan Oswald,
Community Program Board member, and David Larson, Parks and Recreation
Citizen Advisory Commission member, to the City and School Facility Use
Advisory Committee. Motion carried 5-0.
XIV. REPORTS OF OFFICERS
A. REPORTS OF COUNCILMEMBERS
1. Request that Donald Uram Continue for Two Weeks as Acting City
Manager
Mayor Harris stated that Mr. Uram has removed himself from
appointment as Acting City Manager. He has agreed to continue for two
weeks, which should be enough time to find someone to serve in that
capacity.
MOTION: Tyra-Lukens moved, seconded by Butcher, to ask Donald
Uram to continue for two weeks as Acting City Manager until the next
Council meeting. Motion carried 5-0. Mr.Uram accepted.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
August 7,2001
Page 14
2. Search for Acting City Manager
Rosow has recommended that Tyra-Lukens and Mayor Hams continue to
engage in the search for appropriate candidates for an interim city
manager.
Case said he was concerned that uncertainty is perpetuating an unstable
environment at City Center. He said he believed there is someone the
Council could consider at that meeting. Carl Jullie,the retired former City
Manager, could step right into the job. He knows the City, he knows the
people who work there, he knows the issues and he is willing. Case said
he contacted Carl Jullie and asked if he would be willing. Rather than
have Tyra-Lukens and Mayor Harris go out again and bring back a list,
Case suggested they go ahead to appoint Mr. Jullie and let the Council get
on the task of finding a permanent city manager.
Mayor Harris said the other side of that is the Council doesn't want to act
as if in a crisis mode,but wants to use a deliberative process during which
Mr. Jullie could be considered. She has contacted the League of
Minnesota Cities, which has a roster of city managers available for short-
term interim appointments, and they might want to look at several of those
and then make the best appointment. Two weeks would not be
destabilizing because Mr.Uram will be continuing for the next two weeks.
Case said he liked the idea of using that list if it were a fairly long-term
process. He could not think of any disadvantages to appointing Mr. Jullie.
Tyra-Lukens said she would like some clarification. Mr. Case mentioned
something about coming back with a list of potential candidates. She did
not believe that was a good idea. She hoped that within a couple of weeks
she and Mayor Harris would be coming back with a candidate and with a
proposed contract. Certainly Carl Jullie would be considered.
Case said in the meanwhile there would be no interaction for the next two
weeks, and when that candidate's name is brought back, some
Councilmembers may believe that is not a good candidate, and the Council
would be dealing with a discussion of that candidate in public. He was not
sure he wanted to authorize two people to come back with one candidate.
Mosman said it would be good to have Carl Jullie if he is willing and
available, so the two selected Councilmembers can begin the process of
finding a permanent City Manager. Mayor Harris said she believed
looking for a permanent City Manager would be quite a different process.
Butcher said it was inappropriate for an individual to undertake a search
without having had a discussion on this Council in terms of asking any
person if they have an interest in being the Acting City Manager. The
Council should do whatever it does together. This is the governing body
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
August 7,2001
Page 15
and they need to follow a process. This is a very important issue and they
need to discuss it as a whole. She liked the idea of getting a list of names
from the League of Minnesota Cities. If two members of the Council look
at those names and come back with a recommendation, then they can all
share in the decision.
MOTION: Butcher moved, seconded by Tyra-Lukens, that the Council
appoint two members who have been serving as a search team to review a
number of names given by the League of Minnesota Cities and add Carl
Jullie, and come back with a recommendation for an individual so the
whole Council can make a decision.
Mosman said she understood everyone could lay out their requirements for
an interim city manager. Mayor Harris said she believed it would be
possible to get that kind of information fairly quickly. Each
Councilmember could write a list of what he or she is looking for.
Rosow said the Council could discuss it at that meeting, otherwise if they
decide later there is going to be any discussion about it, they would need a
meeting to do that. The other part of the process is that they could build in
the opportunity to have interviews with the candidates, and those
interviews are allowed to be private under the law if the whole Council is
not sitting in on the interview at the same time. Interviews could be done
in ones and twos. Then they could have some interaction before actually
making an appointment based on the recommendations.
Mayor Harris said that seems to be one way around the conundrum in
which they find themselves, because there may be more than one
individual who is found to be acceptable, and the other Councilmembers
could interview them in addition to Tyra-Lukens and herself.
Case said if they would agree to bring back more than one candidate, he
would support the motion. But the idea they would bring back only one
candidate and Council may turn that one down, and then have to find
another one, he didn't want to go through that process. He would not
support bringing back just one.
Butcher said her thought was that the search team would have information
about each of the candidates, but everyone would be privy to it. The
search team would review that information and make a recommendation if
they want all the Councilmembers to interview the field of candidates.
Otherwise, the search team would hone in on one or possibly two and
bring that back to the Council for a decision.
Mosman suggested contributing their ideas of characteristics they would
like to see. Then there would be involvement by all the Councilmembers.
CITY COUNCIL MEWTES
August 7,2001
Page 16
Rosow said those lists should be submitted to Mr. Uram, which would be
public documents, and the public could have access to what each member
contributed.
Motion carried 4-1,with Case voting nay.
3. Process to Follow in Search for Permanent City Manager
Mayor asked for a discussion on how the Council wished to proceed in its
search for a permanent City Manager. Using an executive search firm is
one method.
Tyra-Lukens said she hasn't worked with a search firm on anything of this
kind. She asked if they should engage an executive search firm first or
give a list of characteristics and qualifications to them first.
Rosow said the City's financial consultant, Springsted, has a component
that conducts executive searches. However, the Council would probably
want to look at other firms as well. Staff could initially seek information
from them, how they carry out the search process, and at what point they
want the City's input. Direction to the staff should be to obtain names of
firms and solicit proposals from them on how they would proceed on the
Council's behalf.
Uram said there are a number of national and local firms that conduct this
kind of process, and staff can bring back as many names as the Council
wishes. Minnetonka has just completed this search process.
Mayor Harris said she believed staff understood what the Council wanted.
Uram asked when the Council would expect to have the proposals back.
Mayor Harris said it would probably fall into the period of time when the
new interim City Manager is in place, but it would be Uram's
responsibility to identify those firms and start the process.
4. Skate Park at Round Lake—Inquiry by Councilmember Ron Case
Case asked Bob Lambert to come back in two weeks with a brief update
on future plans for the skate park, any additional skate parks or potential
plans for a bike park.
Lambert said he would give an update at the next Council meeting.
B. REPORT OF CITY MANAGER
C. REPORT OF PARKS AND RECREATION SERVICES DIRECTOR
D. REPORT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND FINANCIAL
SERVICES DIRECTOR
CITY COUNCIL MIlVUTES
August 7,2001
Page 17
E. REPORT OF PUBLIC WORKS SERVICES DIRECTOR
F. REPORT OF PUBLIC SAFETY SERVICES DIRECTOR
1. Joint Powers Agreement with Bloomington, Edina and the
Metropolitan Airports Commission (Police Department) for the South
Metro Public Safety Training Facility
Public Safety Services Director Jim Clark reported the City has an
opportunity to officially participate in the South Metro Public Safety
Training Facility with the cities of Bloomington and Edina and the
Metropolitan Airports Commission, to train law enforcement officers and
firefighters. The facility would be located in the City of Edina.
Clark expressed his interest in this project. The City of Eden Prairie will
be expected to contribute $1,306,364 for the construction of the facility.
In December of 1997 the City Council granted the authority for the City to
issue general obligation bonds in the amount of $1,000,000. The
difference will come from the Capital Improvement Program. The
consortium made several attempts to secure funding from both the State
and Federal governments. A grant of$500,000 was recently secured to
apply to the project.
The police cannot find a place to practice shooting firearms. It is difficult
to find out if new officers are proficient in the use of weapons. Because
lawbreakers are outgunning the police, the police will be upgrading their
weapons, but they have no place to train with the weapons being
authorized. This facility will include indoor firearms training. Regarding
the fire department,houses to burn down for training are hard to find. The
proposed facility will have fire-training buildings, which will simulate the
diversity in construction that there is in this area.
Clark asked for approval of the Joint Powers Agreement. Eden Prairie is
the last body to approve this agreement.
Tyra-Lukens said this facility has been needed for so long and is important
to public safety. She assumed the consortium would be renting this
facility out to other departments not in the joint powers. Clark replied a
training schedule would be established. Non-member agencies would
compensate the consortium for use of the facility. The revenue could be
put in the CIP or in the General Operating Budget for the facility, or it
could be split to offset the operating cost.
MOTION: Mosman moved, seconded by Case, to approve the Joint
Powers Agreement with the cities of Bloomington, Edina and the
Metropolitan Airports Commission (Police Department) for the South
Metro Public Safety Training Facility. Motion carried 5-0.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
August 7,2001
Page 18
Rosow commented the Council's action is a demonstration of the City's
cooperation with other cities and agencies, including the Metropolitan
Airports Commission(MAC), even though the City has outstanding issues
with the MAC. The City's requests mentioned in the Council minutes
from a month ago, that the MAC was asked to have substantive
discussions with the City, have not been forthcoming. The MAC and the
City cooperate on a number of levels. The City provides fire and safety
services to the airport without charge, and continues to do so. Again he
called upon the MAC to show the same degree of cooperation with the
City that the City shows toward it
G. REPORT OF MANAGEMENT SERVICES DIRECTOR
H. REPORT OF CITY ATTORNEY
XV. OTHER BUSINESS
A. CLOSED SESSION ON LITIGATION
Rosow said he wished to discuss the potential of litigation with respect to
acquisition of property rights and easements for road right-of-way in the Charlson
improvement area. The City has had outstanding for many months requests for
easements to build roads and put infrastructure in place that will serve not only
the Charlson improvement area but also Grace Church. To date, the City has not
had any response from MAC with respect to those easements, and the time is
getting very short to let a project and get those facilities built in time for Grace
Church to open and have water in the building.
The Council would be coming back into open session to take action with regard to
authorizing condemnation,if that is its decision.
MOTION: Butcher moved, seconded by Tyra-Lukens, to adjourn to a closed
session and come back to an open session. Motion carried 5-0.
The Council moved to a closed session at 8:55 p.m. Mayor Harris called the
meeting back into open session at 10:13 p.m.
MOTION: Case moved, seconded by Tyra-Lukens, to withhold authorization for
condemnation, and direct the Mayor to draft a letter to the Metropolitan Airports
Commission requesting right of entries necessary to construct the Charlson area
improvements, and to have staff report back as to the results at the next City
Council meeting. Motion carried 5-0.
XVI. ADJOURNMENT
MOTION: Mosman moved, seconded by Butcher, to adjourn the meeting. Mayor
Harris adj ourned the meeting at 10:15 p.m.