HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021 10-25 CCM Regular SessionMINUTES OF THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF BROOKLYN CENTER IN THE COUNTY
OF HENNEPIN AND THE STATE OF MIINNESOTA
REGULAR SESSION
OCTOBER 25, 2021
VIA ZOOM
1. INFORMAL OPEN FORUM WITH CITY COUNCIL
CALL TO ORDER INFORMAL OPEN FORUM
The Brooklyn Center City Council met in Informal Open Forum called to order by Mayor Mike
Elliott at 6:55 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Mayor Mike Elliott and Councilmembers Marquita Butler, April Graves, Kris Lawrence -
Anderson, and Dan Ryan. Also present were City Manager Reggie Edwards, City Engineer Mike
Albers, Community Development Director Meg Beekman, City Clerk Barb Suciu, and City
Attorney Troy Gilchrist.
Mayor Mike Elliott opened the meeting for Informal Open Forum.
Ms. Daniels stated she heard that the Police Department is conshucting a permanent fence around
its Department, and she wanted to confirm if that is accurate.
Dr. Edwards stated he will follow up with her regarding that question.
Mayor Elliott asked Dr. Edwards to follow up with the Council with that information as well.
Mayor Elliott moved and Councilmember Ryan seconded to close the Informal Open Forum at
6:59 p.m.
Motion passed unanimously.
2. INVOCATION
Councilmember Graves read a poem she wrote in the late 1990s.
"The Battle. Let's stop to think about our history, not just the last five or ten years of our own
lives, but the world's history. It's no mystery what we've done to ourselves, to our world. Even
the eagle has been shot down, our national bird. And it's been heard, therefore it's been said that
all that our world could have had is now dead. We've exhausted the possibilities, unfulfilled our
responsibility, ignored our abilities to create a lasting envirorunent of love between people, left the
state of communication throughout the state of humanity feeble. Let's sit, recollect, remember
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what we destroyed by centuries of neglect. In 1492, Columbus sailed the ocean blue. After a hard
month at sea, Columbus and his crew reached land finally. They took over the land, set up trading
posts, proving to the Natives that money meant the most. And as mercantilism grew, took out any
culture. Survivors were only a few. Fransisco Pizarro invades Peru with lust for riches of fire. So
with intense and no regrets, he conquered the Incan Empire. World War II, slaves, inescapable
persecution, countries too stuck in their ways to try to find the solutions. The systemic instruction
of over six million European Jews, the Salem Witch Trials, hanged, burned, and murdered but all
Falsely accused. The secret society to establish and maintain white supremacy. How could any
man use racism to take away independency? The Berlin Wall, a long-lasting blockade to prohibit
individuals. The nonviolent man, the end to the Martin Luther Kingdom. In 1941, the Japanese
attacked the Naval Base at Pearl Harbor. 24,000 people murdered in one single hour. The blood
and the sickness of the Middle Passage, war and death, choking on gasses. Slavery being called a
necessary evil and then a positive good. God, please help the men asked to kill and, without
hesitation, could. It goes on forever; there may be no end. But still, we continue to sit and pretend,
ignore, push away. But please stop and listen to what I say. Distortions, rape, murder, suicide, a
choice between Heaven and Hell, redemption, but still so many refuse to decide. Betrayal, incest,
segregation, the whole world is crying because we are dying as a universal nation. We destroy our
ozone and beat our wives. Can we please take the time to look at our lives? Stop the madness.
It's created so much sadness and left so little room for gladness. Unless we can all join together,
through different cultures, race, and status. Together, this universal problem will become less
complex. Gathering as one in the fight to bring love back. But do we lack the motivation we need
to stand as a unified empire? Or is it just that we are scared to acknowledge the want, the need to
aspire. Negativity is dominating our world, and there is nothing more that I alone can do. The
truth is whether we win or lose this battle is left up to all of you."
3. CALL TO ORDER REGULAR BUSINESS MEETING
The Brooklyn Center City Council met in Regular Session called to order by Mayor Mike Elliott
at 7:04 p.m.
4. ROLL CALL
Mayor Mike Elliott and Councilmembers Marquita Butler, April Graves, Kris Lawrence -
Anderson, and Dan Ryan. Also present were City Manager Reggie Edwards, City Engineer Mike
Albers, Community Development Director Meg Beekman, City Clerk Barb Suciu, and City
Attorney Troy Gilchrist.
5. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
6. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA
Councilmember Ryan moved and Mayor Elliott seconded to approve the Agenda and Consent
Agenda, as amended, with amendments to the regular session minutes of October 11, 2021, and
the following consent items were approved:
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a. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. October 11, 2021-Study Session Meeting
2. October 11, 2021-Regular Session Meeting
3. October 11, 2021-Work Session Meeting
b. LICENSES
INITIAL (TYPE IV —six-month license)
2018 54"' Avenue N.
7243 Emerson Avenue N.
INITIAL (TYPE II -two year° license)
3101 61 St Avenue N.
RENEWAL (TYPE IV —six-month license)
5301 Russell Avenue N.
Sommerset Place
5356 71" Circle
2006 Brookview Drive
7169 Unity Avenue N.
RENEWAL (TYPE III —one year° license)
7015 Brooklyn Blvd.
Willow Lane Apartments
3 012 5 1 " Avenue N.
5737 Emerson Avenue N.
540 7 Irving Avenue N.
5350 Logan Avenue N.
RENEWAL (TYPE II —two year° license)
6015 Dupont Avenue N.
5506 Judy Lane
RENEWAL (TYPE I —three year license)
2932 69th Lane
5411 22nd Circle
6013 Brooklyn Boulevard
5201 Drew Avenue N.
5819 Dupont Avenue N.
5906 Dupont Avenue N.
Giselle Oo
Oscar Martinez Gavina
Ross Herman
Lee Yan/Midwest GIR met action
plan requirements
Xiaoyan Hu
MNSF II W1 LLC/GOAL Properties
Missing CFH cent
Soye Chalte
Jason Quilling/Nicollet Flats LLC
met action plan requirements
Sri Lakshmi Valiveti
Nutida Wong - missing CFH cert
Mark Gonzales — missing CFH cert
And CPTED
Elbrus Mgt./Matthew Forster —
Missing CFH cert & CPTED
Follow up
Home SFR Borrower / HavenBrook
Homes —met requirements
Xi in Lin / Prosperous Property
Mayerling Rios
Maya Ly /Majestic —Morning
Rental Property
Rosa Chiqui
Ahmed Omar
Tiet Nguyen
Bruce Goldberg
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5719 Halifax Avenue N.
4207 Lakeside Avenue N. #238
5924 Washburn Avenue N.
Paul Zheng / 5719 Halifax Ave LLC
Hussein Seman
Ryam McLuen
c. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-132 ACCEPTING WORK PERFORMED AND
AUTHORIZING THE RELEASE OF FUNDS FOR A CERTAIN
FINANCIAL GUARANTEE BEING HELD BY THE CITY OF BROOKLYN
CENTER (THE SANCTUARY AT BROOKLYN CENTER/FRANA
COMPANIES, INC.)
d. SETTING A PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED UTILITY RATES FOR
2022
e. RESOLUTION NO. 2021- 133APPROVING TRANSFER OF FUNDS TO
CREATE BEAUTIFICATION CAPITAL PROJECT FUND
Motion passed unanimously.
7. PRESENTATIONS/PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS/DONATIONS
7a. PROCLAMATION DECLARING OCTOBER 25, 2021 TO BE DESIGNATED AS
RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS DAY
Mayor Elliott stated there are several nominees for Random Acts of Kindness Day. He stated this
was a program established in 1977, and it is the 25th Anniversary of the Program. He noted the
program is meant to recognize residents and organizations that make Brooklyn Center a wonderful
place to live and work.
Mayor Elliott stated the first nominee is Tom Green, nominated by Grace Green. Tom has engaged
in too many selfless acts to list, so I have chosen just one. Tom spends a generous amount of his
time cleaning the city parks and streets. He picks up garbage and cleans graffiti off the sidewalks,
buildings, benches, garbage receptacles, fences, light posts, and other public structures. He has
been a Brooklyn Center for over 60 years and has always been focused on keeping our city clean
and safe. Mayor Elliott added he has seen Tom hard at work cleaning their City.
Kate Green, daughter of Tom Green, stated Tom has been a selfless Brooklyn Center resident for
his entire life. He has watched the City go from beautiful and all -encompassing to deteriorating,
which has been extremely hard on him. She stated instead of getting angry or bitter, he has turned
to improve the community. He takes pride in cleaning up the community and dealing with graffiti
on signs. She noted he is so proud to be a Brooklyn Center resident, and that shines through in all
that he does.
Mayor Elliott stated Diane Sannes was nominated by Allan Hancock. In July 2021, Diane heard
of the process to apply for a grant through Hennepin County for American Rescue Plan Food
Insecurity (ARP) funds. Over $15,000 was awarded in the grant to provide food for our school
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students. In October, $7,500 of food was delivered to 15 area schools and another 270 cases of
food will be delivered to schools in November.
Allan Hancock stated he really appreciates what Diane has been doing for the community and she
deserves this recognition.
Councilmember Graves stated Nicosia Wynn was nominated by Denise Anderson. Nicoshia has
been Denise's neighbor for 10+ years and has always been a selfless person; this past summer
Nicoshia was a need in the community to provide affordable academic and enrichment summer
programming for families. Nicoshia started a non-profit called Relentless Academy and
implemented a tuition -free 10 week SMART (Science, Math, Art, Reading, Technology) summer
program for families in the community. Through her nonprofit, she ensured that families and
students were prepared for school by giving away 200 backpacks filled with school supplies.
Nicoshia has the drive to make a difference for youth and the entire Brooklyn Center Community.
Councilmember Graves stated Brooklyn Center Mutual Aid Group was nominated by Melissa
Carey. The Brooklyn Center Mutual Aid Group and Protestor Safety Group was made up of
residents of Brooklyn Center and many folks who are invested in Brooklyn Center but don't live
there. The residents were Matt Branch, Adrianne Gould, Alfreda Daniels, and Melissa Carey.
Councilmember Graves noted she was personally grateful for these residents in responding to the
community and its needs. She saw them in action supporting protesters, serving families, and
protecting businesses. She stated their ability to reach across cultures is inspirational and is what
their community needs.
Councilmember Butler stated Phillip Musa was nominated by John Solomon. Phillip owns and
operates `The Handz On' barbershop in the Humboldt Square Plaza where he not only provides a
service but he uses his location as a connection to a diversity of needs. Many stop in to attain
information on important things to know about our community and to advise him of issues and
concerns. He assists those in need with food and other resources. Many people stop in just to drop
off things that others may need so that they can disperse them to families in need. He has been
known to give free haircuts to men who need to look appropriate while going to job interviews.
This summer, he collected and gave out free children's books to families and collaborated on a
block party to promote safety, resources, and support for businesses in Humboldt Square Plaza.
Every day he shows the spirit of what we want to see in Brooklyn Center and what we need to
promote unity as a city as we learn to celebrate diversity, inclusion, and the great things we can do
together to be even greater as a city.
Councilmember Butler stated Diane and Daryl Sannes were nominated by Allan Hancock. These
neighbors have picked up hundreds of pounds of waste in 2021 along the Mississippi River. Diane
is also very active in keeping the storm drains clear so only rainwater goes down the drain.
Councilmember Butler noted she is also grateful for their hundreds of contributions to the
community.
Allan Hancock stated he appreciates what both Diane and Darryl Sannes do for the community
and both deserve this award.
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Matt Branch from the Brooklyn Center Mutual Aid Group stated he wanted to thank
Councilmember Graves for recognizing Melissa Carey and her efforts.
Melissa Carey, a member of the Brooklyn Center Mutual Aid Group, stated after the murder,
Adrianne Gould immediately set up community resources. She noted Alfreda Daniels got the word
out to her network while being nine months pregnant. They both made it a priority to care for the
children in the community. Melissa Carey added Matt Branch was key to decreasing the violence.
She stated another concerned resident went door-to-door to find translators to reach out to folks.
Adrianne Gould, another member of the Brooklyn Center Mutual Aid Group, thanked Melissa
Carey for the nomination and Alfreda Daniels for all of the coordination efforts and modeling
resiliency and self -efficacy.
Councilmember Butler stated she wanted to thank Brool�lyn Center Mutual Aid Group and others
who were not listed in the award. She added Melissa Carey has always been a great community
member.
Alfreda Daniels stated she wanted to thank Adrianne Gould and Matt Branch for answering the
,all in the middle of the night. She also wanted to thank the folks that showed up to answer the
,all to be out in the community. Alfreda Daniels stated she wanted to thank her daughter as she
came five weeks early due to the stress she faced at that time.
Councilmember Lawrence -Anderson stated Kathy and Don Winn were nominated by Ginny Exel.
Kathy and Don Winn have helped many friends, neighbors, church members, and anyone who has
special needs. When Ginny hurt her back, they brought over a cane, walker, and food. At church,
they serve on the council, choir, and in the kitchen for funerals. When people are ailing, the Winns
have run errands to help out. Councilmember Lawrence -Anderson noted she does not personally
know Kathy and Don Winn, but they embody what being a community member means.
Councilmember Lawrence -Anderson Darryl Sannes was nominated by Allan Hancock. Over
Labor Day weekend, the planters in front of City Hall were freshened up by Darryl Sannes. He
has since been watering them daily so residents, visitors, and city employees can enjoy these
flowering plants as they are welcomed to our Brooklyn Center City Hall. Councilmember
Lawrence -Anderson stated that is a beautiful gesture.
Allan Hancock stated it is wonderful to see the plants and he appreciates the time Darryl has III -
he time to remove all the weeds that had taken over the planters, but she also planted a variety of
flowering plants to beautify the sidewalk to the entrance.
Councilmember Ryan stated Prophetess Victoria Toure was nominated by Jacqueline Kofa Swell.
Victoria Toures always donates food and clothes to shelters and the homeless on the roadside. She
not only gives food, but she also donates blankets and hygiene supplies as well. Jacqueline Kofa
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Swen believes Prophetess Victoria Toure deserves this award because she has left an impact on
the people around her.
Jacqueline Kofa Swen stated she has done Prophetess Victoria Toure several things to help the
community and thought this was a great opportunity to shine a light on her service. She added she
appreciates that the Council recognizes community members in this way.
Councilmember Graves stated Diane Sannes was nominated by Alan Hancock. Diane saw the
need to appreciate teachers and school staff in the 15 area Brooklyn Center schools. Funds were
raised and, in May 1400 teachers and school staff were served a pizza lunch for the hard work
these individuals do every day to help the community's children. Councilmember Graves noted
she agrees the school staff deserves a pizza lunch at the very least for all that they do.
Diane Sannes noted it was the efforts of Walmart and Luther Toyota and other community people
for those funds.
Councilmember Graves stated Lois Purdham-Kidane was nominated by Diane Sannes. Garden
City Elementary School in the Osseo School District needed face masks for young children, and
members of the Brooklyn United Methodist Church immediately offered 125 homemade masks.
The sewers at church were Lois, Alice, Carol, Diane, Jill, Kathy, Ann, and others who kept making
masks and were able to deliver another 100 masks fall of 2021. Councilmember Graves added she
appreciates this work to keep their youth safe in their return to school.
Lois Purdham-Kidane stated there was a team of 17 people that go together as far back as April of
2020 to sew masks, and they produced over 3200 masks. She explained they are closer to
providing 260 masks to Garden City Elementary School. They have also given masks to West
African Family Services, Maranatha, Prairie Home Care, Community Emergency Assistance
Programs, and other places outside of Brooklyn Center. She noted they can make more masks as
needed.
Diane Sannes noted that Lois Purdham-Kidane and other community members have donated their
fabric, thread, elastic, and filters for the projects.
Councilmember Butler stated Apostle Samuel Toure was nominated by Chinto Cooper, Maureen
Watson, and Georgia Toe. Mr. Toure has fed and clothed the homeless for years. He cares for
everyone around him and he is willing to go above and beyond for anyone at any time. Mr. Toure
has helped residents when folks' cars broke down multiple times. He would jump-start their cars
multiple times, assist them in moving into their new apartment, and always puts others' needs
before his own.
Chinto Cooper stated Apostle Samuel Toure has done so much to support and serve youth in the
community. She noted not all of his efforts are listed in the nominations, but he always puts others
before himself and helps people to come together. Chinto Cooper stated she sees him as a father
figure, and he has done so much to turn people's lives around.
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Apostle Samuel Toure stated he appreciates Broolclyn Center and thanked Chinto Cooper for the
nomination. Apostle Samuel Toure added he always wants to be someone available to help others
and he gives God the glory for the opportunity.
Councilmember Butler Leon Shannon was nominated by Ken Shallbetter. Ken Shallbetter was out
in front of his house using a 5-gallon bucket to assist me kneeling onto a cushion to pull some
weeds. While getting up, either his hand slipped or the bucket twisted, and Ken Shallbetter fell
headfirst into a wooden flower box. His glasses went flying as a result of my face hitting the edge
of the planter. He tried to get up but to no avail. His wife noticed and ran and got Mr. Shannon,
their neighbor, who helped lift Ken Shallbetter back into his walker and stayed with him until he
was able to move on his own.
Councilmember Lawrence -Anderson stated Allan and Darnell Hancock were nominated by Darryl
Sannes. Allan and Darnell helped remove litter from the banks of the Mississippi River in
Brooklyn Center. Cleaning the riverbank is hard work as there is much trash and litter during the
springtime high water. Diane Sannes stated they picked up a large amount of trash and thanked
Allan and Darnell Hancock for their efforts.
Councilmember Lawrence -Anderson stated Pastor Moore was nominated by Diane Sannes. In
April 2021, Pastor Moore led the community in the "Prayer for Healing" event. Diane Sannes
stated she was grateful for Pastor Moore's efforts.
Councilmember Ryan stated Broolclyn Center Cub Foods was nominated by Friends of the
Brookdale Library. Over 270 cases of food funded by Hennepin County American Rescue Plan
Act (ARP) Funds were ordered from the Brooklyn Center Cub with the assistance of Store
Manager Jamar Hester and Assistant Store Director Dave Boudin. The Brooklyn Center Cub
Foods staff provided food items at the best price so more products could be purchased. Cub Foods
staff also helped deliver the food cases to areas schools. Councilmember Ryan added Cub Foods
is an excellent store and is always clean, and this is just one example of how Brooklyn Center
benefits from a business like Cub Foods being in the community.
Councilmember Ryan stated Broolclyn Center Lions Club was nominated by Friends of the
Brookdale Library. Over 270 cases of food were delivered to six area schools by Brooklyn Center
Lions Club. Councilmember Ryan noted he was very happy to read this nomination due to his 13-
year membership with the Lions Club.
Bud Sorenson, a member of the Brooklyn Center Lions Club, stated the Brooklyn Center Lions
Club has been serving the community for over 60 years. They have had various donations and
programs for several years.
Councilmember Lawrence -Anderson stated Brooklyn Center Liquor Store Employees was
nominated by Bobby LaRose. This summer the employees at the Brooklyn Center Liquor Stores
raised money from kind donations from customers for the Brooklyn Center Fire Department.
Donations will go to outfitting firefighters with bulletproof vests. Employees were able to raise
$1,671.60 and other local businesses donated a total of $32,500 for a total of $34,171.60. This
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will buy 38 vests to keep their firefighters out there. Councilmember Lawrence -Anderson noted
her appreciation for the fundraising and contributions from other businesses.
Mayor Elliott stated Einstein Bagels Store Manager Reece Gopaul was nominated by Diane
Sannes. Einstein Bagels Store Manager Reece Gopaul donates its end -of -the -day bagels to local
nonprofits.
Mayor Elliott read the in full Proclamation Declaring October 25, 2021, to be Designated as
Random Acts of Kindness Day.
7b. BROOKi,YNK PROGRAM UPDATE AND ANNUAL OVERVIEW
Dr. Edwards introduced the topic and invited Community Development Director Meg Beel�nan
to continue the presentation.
Community Development Director Meg Beekman stated one of the strategic priorities is resident
economic stability. Some of the components to address include workforce development and
creating pathways. BrookLynk is a partnership program between Brooklyn Park and Brooklyn
Center and is housed under Brooklyn Park that addresses such components. Ms. Beekman
introduced BrookLynk Program Manager Catrice O'Neal to continue the program overview and
update.
BrookLynk Program Manager Catrice O'Neal stated the mission of BrookL,ynlc is to coordinate
partnerships that prepare employers to engage the next generation of workers and to connect young
people in the Brooklyns' facing barriers to employment with the skills, experiences, and
professional social networks needed to develop their pathway to college and career. She added
there are four staff members.
Ms. O'Neal stated in 2021, they provided Get Ready! Youth Work Readiness Training that serves
youth 14-24 who live in suburban North Hennepin. They also provided supervision training,
coordinated summer internships, maintain an alumni network, and launched a six -week online
training series in response to the pandemic.
Ms. O'Neal stated BroolcLynlc youth is the future workforce. Together the cities of Brooklyn
Center and Brooklyn Park are committed to achieving economic health, equity, and well-being of
the community ensuring prosperity for all. BrookLynk ignites the aspirations of youth and attracts
employers to grow their business in the Brooklyns. She noted 93% of the youth were students of
color, 50% identified as low-income, 6% were opportunity youth, meaning homeless, pregnant to
parenting, in foster care, or juvenile justice -involved, and 2 1 % were first -generation high school
or college graduates.
Ms. O'Neal stated they launched a new program and partnered with Construction Career Pathways,
a state-wide nonprofit supported by trade unions, construction companies, Minnesota school
districts, and Minnesota's Department of Employment and Economic Development to coordinate
Minnesota Trades Academy at Brooklyn Center High School. The program ran for ten weeks
From June through August introducing youth and young adults ages 16-20 from Brooklyn Center
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to hands-on projects in the field of construction with an introduction to careers in the trades and
apprenticeships. She noted interns work 20-30 hours per week earning $15 per hour. In
partnership with Brooklyn Center community schools, BrookLynk created ten internships. Over
the sununer, the interns received 1:1 support from BrookLynk job coaches, transportation support,
training stipends, and access to the BrookLynk Job Board and Alumni Network. Ms. O'Neal stated
she was excited to share that two interns were hired into full-time permanent positions that started
at the end of their summer internship through Minnesota Trades Academy.
Ms. O'Neal showed a slide detailing the 2021 program impact. She stated the youth participation
increased in 2021 despite the pandemic. She stated 80 youth completed a summer internship, and
350 youth were engaged throughout the year. They added 104 internships were pledged through
18 businesses and have connected a total of 49 youth to alumni for jobs. Ms. O'Neal noted they
hosted virtual workshops on LinkedIn and diversity in the workplace as well as a virtual alumni
gathering.
Ms. O'Neal stated 33% of BrookLynk interns live or attend school in Brooklyn Center and 25%
of youth attend Get Ready1 live or attend school in Brooklyn Center. She added 3 alumni from
Brooklyn Center was hired into permanent jobs and there are six employer partners are located in
Brooklyn Centers which pledged 32 summer internships.
Ms. O'Neal stated one of their expansion objectives is the re-employment of individuals in the
community impacted by the pandemic with emphasis on connecting Black Indigenous Person of
Color job seekers to local jobs. Another objective is local coordination with the continued
collaboration of community organizers to provide training, certifications, internships, and jobs.
They also want to re -imagine public safety by creating opportunities for higher barrier youth and
young adults ages 16-24. Ms. O'Neal stated they will be expanding business coordination by
connecting local businesses to talent, supporting recruitment and retention, and providing
workshops and training to enhance diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.
Ms. O'Neal noted they are launching some new programs in 2022. The Youth Entrepreneurship
Program just launched which provides work readiness training, small business development,
grants, and participation stipends. They are launching a sub -grant to community -based workforce
development programs, focusing on establishing new partnerships and opportunities for adults
ages 18 and up, and expanding career pathways into construction, public works, parks and
recreation, information technology, and nursing assistants.
Ms. O'Neal stated to support the new efforts, they will be moving from four to six staff, one of
which would be funded by the American Rescue Plan, if approved. They will continue to be a
partnership between Brooklyn Park and Brooklyn Center, provide opportuniti kes for work readiness
to youth and young adults in the Brooklyns, advisory council oversight, and budget managed by
the Brooklyn Park Economic Development Authority. They are looking for funding through two
Federal grants, American Rescue Plan funds, a state grant, one pending state grant, two pending
partner grants, a United Way pending partner grant, and the unchanged annual contributions from
Brooklyn Park and Brooklyn Center.
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Councilmember Ryan asked how they can continue to build capacity so they can reach all of the
young people that need it. He also asked if they had been in touch with the District County
Commissioner. Ms. O'Neal stated she has not been in contact with the District County
Commissioner, but she regularly works with Ms. Beekman and Dr. Edwards to coordinate
partnerships and opportunities.
Councilmember Ryan stated District County Commissioner Jeff Lunde is a very strong supporter
of BrookLynk, so he may be a good resource. Ms. O'Neal clarified they are working closely with
Mr. Lunde to identify partnerships and youth internships particularly focused on small businesses
in Brooklyn Center,
Councilmember Graves stated she is excited to see that the work and expansion of the initiative
are continuing despite the pandemic. She noted her son participated in the program during his
junior year of high school. Councilmember Graves encouraged Ms. O'Neal to reach out to the
Council if she needs any further support or connections.
Mayor Elliot moved and Councilmember Ryan moved to accept the BrookLynlc program overview
and update presentation from Catrice O'Neal, BrookLynk Program Manager.
Motion passed unanimously.
8. PUBLIC HEARINGS
8a. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-134 ORDERING IMPROVEMENTS AND
AUTHORIZING PREPARATION OF PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS OFR
IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NOS, 2022-019 029 03, AND 04, WOODBINE AREA
STREET AND UTILITY IMPROVEMENTS
Dr. Edwards introduced the item and invited City Engineer Mike Albers to make the staff
presentation.
City Engineer Mike Albers stated the proposed resolution includes local public improvements to
the City's infrastructure based on State of Minnesota Statute Chapter 429. Mr. Albers explained
the proposed project includes roadway, storm drainage, and utility improvements for the
residential neighborhood area commonly referred to as the Woodbine Area. The project was
previously established by the City Council on July 12, 2021, by Resolution 2021-85. On
September 27, 2021, the City Council received the project feasibility report and called for a public
hearing to be held on October 25, 2021, to consider these improvements. He noted all relevant
parties were notified.
Mr. Albers stated public comments received before the approval of the feasibility report were
included in the Feasibility Report (Appendix A). Subsequently, additional public comments were
received, including a letter from 7201 Halifax Avenue. He noted the information was attached as
amended Appendix A -Resident Comments and included all additional comments received after
the September 27, 2021, council meeting. Mr. Albers stated if a project is ordered, then a special
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assessment hearing to consider certifying the special assessment will be held in December of 2021
and a separate notice will be sent to property owners in the area.
Mr. Albers showed a slide with a map depicting the proposed street and utility improvements. He
added the improvements were included in the City's Capital Improvement Program, which was
started in 1993 as a systematic way to review the City's street and utility infiastructure. The
Capital Improvement Program has about $187.5 million planned spendings.
Mr. Albers stated their project evaluation would include root intrusion, infiltration, sags, and
broken pipe. For water main evaluation, they would look at corrosion, leaks, frozen water services,
water quality, and pipe material. He noted storm draining evaluation assesses local flooding and
pavement preservation and the streets, sidewalks, and trails portions look at pavement
deterioration, curb and gutter condition, and sidewalk and trail system gaps. As for street lights,
they evaluate the condition of the lighting system.
Mr. Albers stated part of the project is to improve the sanitary sewer system. It was originally
installed between 1956 and 1959 mainly with clay pipe, and, in 1995, 25% of it was replaced with
PVC pipes. He stated approximately 50% of the system requires root sawing to maintain
conveyance capacity, and they anticipate spot repairs on tank sanitary sewer mains, line clay pipe
trunk sanitary sewer mains, and replace sanitary sewer castings. He noted the project will not
improve privately owns lines.
Mr. Albers added they also plan to improve the water distribution system. The proposed
improvements include replacing valves and hydrants throughout the project area, replacing curb
stops throughout the project area, and insulating services with previous freezing history.
Mr. Albers stated the existing sewer system was installed between 1958 and 1995 and is in
relatively good condition. They have noticed there is some standing water in gutters in
intersections, so they want to replace storm castings as needed.
Mr. Albers stated the project area includes 29 street lights, which are a combination of multi -use
poles and free-standing fiberglass poles. He noted most of the lights that have been converted to
LED have already been converted, and there is only one street light on a free-standing wood pole.
The proposed improvement is to replace the freestanding light with a fiberglass pole and LED light
fixture.
Mr. Albers stated the roadway in the area was reconstructed in 1995. He stated there are minor
draining issues and pavement material deterioration. Therefore, the recommended street
improvements include a full -depth pavement replacement and spot repairs for curb gutters and
sidewalks as needed. As for sidewalk improvements, Mr. Albers proposed minor spot repairs on
existing sidewalks, reconstructing pedestrian curb ramps at all cross streets, and creating a new
six-foot concrete sidewalk on the north side of 71 st Avenue from Halifax Avenue to France
Avenue, which was an identified gap part of the Safe Route to School Plan. He added they are
considering and coordinating two other sidewalks with Brooklyn Park. Mr. Albers noted
driveways that are disturbed due to the street and utility repairs will be replaced and disturbed
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boulevard areas will be restored with topsoil and sod. He added they do work closely with
residents as they are impacted throughout the construction.
Mr, Albers showed a slide detailing the preliminary project budget. He noted the amounts are
estimates and include multiple funding sources. The total estimated cost would be about $7
million. Mr. Albers explained the assessment area includes both residential areas and church
properties. In looking at the special assessments, they follow the City's assessment policy, and
the tentative assessment for RI properties is $3,777 per property. He noted the tentative 2022
interest rate is 3.5%, which is up 0.5% from 2021. If the special assessments are approved, there
are three different payment options. For the first time, partial prepayments can be accepted.
Mr. Albers expects the 2021 assessment rates to be established at the November 8 meeting and an
assessment public hearing on December 13 of this year. From there, they anticipate plans approved
in January 2022, they will accept bids in February or March of 2022, construction will begin in
the spring or summer of 2022, and substantial completion by October 2022.
Mayor Elliott asked if the partial payments are a policy change. Mr. Albers stated they have
worked with the county to allow for partial payments.
Councilmember Graves moved and Mayor Elliott seconded to open the Public Hearing.
Motion passed unanimously.
Andrew T. stated he lives near a newly proposed sidewalk. He stated they have a fence and a line
of pine trees on the property line and asked how those would be affected by the proposed sidewalk.
Mr. Albers stated they will be evaluating the right of way before installing a sidewalk, and they
try to work within the right of way. He added they could work with Andrew T. to minimize the
impact on the trees, but they will have to evaluate that in the field. Mr. Albers stated Andrew T.
could reach out to himself or the engineering staff with more specific questions.
Andrew T. asked if Brooklyn Center ever considers franchise fees in place of the assessments for
properties. He noted he had heard of neighboring cities adopting franchise fees successfully.
Mayor Elliott stated they have had that discussion, though not in-depth, as a Council. Mayor
Elliott stated they may be in a position to consider that once they go through the current street
improvement plan. Andrew T. asked if that would be discussed at the assessment hearing. Mayor
Elliott stated the policy, for now, is to go through the assessments, and when the Capital
Improvement Plan has run its course, then they will have the discussion as a City Council to move
to franchise fees.
Councilmember Graves moved and Mayor Elliott seconded to close the Public Hearing.
Motion passed unanimously.
Councilmember Graves moved and Councilmember Ryan seconded to adopt RESOLUTION NO.
2021-134 to approve ordering the Woodbine Area Street and Utility Improvements, Improvement
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Project Nos. 2022-01, 02, 03, and 04 and authorizing the preparation of project plans and
specifications.
Motion passed unanimously.
9. PLANNING COMMISSION ITEMS
None.
10. COUNCIL CONSIDERATION ITEMS
10a. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-XX BROOKLYN CENTER BEAUTIFICATION AND
PUBLIC ART MASTER PLAN
Dr. Edwards introduced the item and stated Brooklyn Center is known as a place where is known
as a place where diverse community members can see themselves in the art that's part of their
daily lives and work together to build their shared home, a home where residents and businesses
tluive, actively engage in cultural activities and enjoy their quality of life. The City hosts an
inclusive, equitable, people -powered beautification program focused on improving health,
wellbeing and thoughtful design throughout the city.
Dr. Edwards stated the plan was created to inform and guide cultural development throughout the
city, starting with public art, beautification, public space development, and environmental
stewardship, and noted the arts give them a forum to display our differences and similarities and
the opportunity to learn about each other. He added this is especially important coming out of the
pandemic and civil unrest.
Dr. Edwards stated they needed a plan to recreate a sense of identity, enhance the community's
image, and grow civic pride. He explained beautification is the process of identifying and
enhancing existing aesthetic conditions, public art is publicly accessible original art that enriches
a city and evokes meaning; it can tell their stories, improve the look and feel of one's built
environment, and enhance the quality of life and improve the health of communities. Dr. Edwards
invited Recreation Supervisor Janelle Crossfield and Recreation Coordinator Shea Lawrence to
continue the staff presentation.
Recreation Coordinator Shea Lawrence stated the Beautification and Public Art Master Plan
includes an overview of the City and highlights from the Comprehensive Plan. She noted there
have been 1030 "touchpoints" through meetings, interviews, tabling, on -site surveys, and online
surveys. Another piece of community engagement and research was promoting the plan through
the City newsletter, social media, and local media, as well as demonstration projects. She added
the Master Plan includes key findings such as strengths and challenges in the cities, opportunities
for project locations, and values of community members, and an implementation plan.
Recreation Supervisor Janelle Crossfield showed a slide listing a few values and principles that
are guiding the Master Plan. She highlighted that residents should be able to see themselves in
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their public art. Some guiding principles include accessibility, diversity, equity, inclusion,
sustainability, regional mindfulness, and the history of the place and those who came before.
Ms. Crossfield stated the long-term goals are to foster civic pride and community health, grow the
number of residents who become active stewards of Brooklyn Center, increase the number of
volunteers in beautification projects, grow the number of residents desiring engagement in public
art, increase participation and leadership by locally -based artists, residents, and businesses,
leverage private investment and partnership support, and build a professionally -managed program.
Ms. Crossfield noted some short-term operational strategies include overseeing the launch of the
plan, establishing the Cultural Arts Commission, building the capacity of City staff to manage
projects, considering a range of funding mechanisms, referencing map and focal areas for
opportunities, facilitating informed decision malting, retaining a City team to assist with program
incubation, considering incentives to grow interest, hosting educational events and forums,
growing community engagement shills and effectiveness, and developing community education
strategies. She then showed a slide with pictures of projects they completed in the past year and
ones they hope to complete in the future.
Councilmember Graves stated it would be very cool to have a map for residents to tour the various
art features. She added it is very exciting to see tangible results of efforts in the community.
Dr. Edwards stated they will be having electronic art displayed throughout the community with
contributions from the community schools. He added that is a way to engage youth and allow
them to express what they are going through. There is also new art hanging in the hallway outside
of Council chambers that he expects the Council will enjoy.
Councilmember Butler stated she appreciated the presentation and noted her excitement for the
Master Plan to launch.
Councilmember Graves noted she would love to be a part of any future open mic nights that they
host.
Mayor Elliott stated he would like to see another arts organization bolt at the plan. He noted the
plan has important cultural elements, but he would lilte to see an organization lilte Juxtaposition
Arts offer some comments and point out any potential blind spots.
Dr. Edwards stated Staff will work on that and bring it baclt to the Council. He added the plan is
a living document so there will be ongoing changes as the City and its people evolve.
Councilmember Graves stated she used to workat Juxtaposition Arts and asked how they could
continue to support local artists and buildup their talents.
Diane S. stated several residents volunteered to serve on the Public Arts Task Force, and she noted
she hopes some of those members would be able to serve on the new art commission.
Councilmember Ryan moved and Councilmember Graves seconded to approve the Beautification
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and Public Art Master Plan.
Motion passed unanimously.
11. COUNCIL REPORT
None.
12. ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Elliott moved and Councilmember Graves seconded adjournment of the City Council
meeting at 9:16 p.m.
Motion passed unanimously.
STATE OF MINNESOTA)
COUNTY OF HENNEPIN) ss. Certification of Minutes
CITY OF BROW LYN CENTER)
The undersigned, being the duly qualified and appointed City Clerk of the City of Brooklyn Center,
Minnesota, certifies:
1. That attached hereto is a full, true, and complete transcript of the minutes of a Regular
Session of the City Council of the City of Brooklyn Center held on October 25, 2021.
2. That said meeting was held pursuant to due call and notice thereof and was duly held at
Broollyn Center City Hall.
3. That the City Council adopted said minutes at its November 8, 2021, Regular Session.
City Clerk
Mayor
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