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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025.05.27 CCM REGULAR5/2725 -1- MINUTES OF THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BROOKLYN CENTER IN THE COUNTY OF HENNEPIN AND THE STATE OF MINNESOTA REGULAR SESSION MAY 27, 2025 CITY HALL – COUNCIL CHAMBERS 1. INFORMAL OPEN FORUM WITH CITY COUNCIL The Brooklyn Center City Council met in Informal Open Forum called to order by Mayor April Graves at 6:59 p.m. 2. ROLL CALL Mayor April Graves and Councilmembers Dan Jerzak, Teneshia Kragness, and Laurie Ann Moore. Also present were City Manager Reggie Edwards, Planning and Zoning Administrator Ginny McIntosh, City Planner Krystin Eldridge, Interim City Clerk Shannon Pettit, and City Attorney Siobhan Tolar. Councilmember Kris Lawrence-Anderson was excused. 3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. 4. INFORMAL OPEN FORUM Mayor April Graves opened the meeting for the purpose of Informal Open Forum and reviewed the Rules of Decorum. Julie B. thanked Brooklyn Center employee Sam Francis for his patience and informative interaction with her mother. She pointed out Jennifer Olson is always a bright spot at City Hall. Julie B. added Shannon Pettit has been extremely helpful and flexible in her new role. Chief Flesland has also been helpful. Mary M. requested Brooklyn Center consider a humane pet store ordinance for the City. 12 other cities in Minnesota have enacted a similar ordinance. The majority of cats and dogs being sold at pet stores are sourced from inhumane breeders. The ordinance would require local pet stores to stop selling cats and dogs. They don’t want to shut down any pet stores; instead, the goal is to focus on selling pet supplies and goods rather than live animals. Mayor Graves thanked Mary M. for the comments and requested that more details be emailed to the Council. Kevin S. noted his appreciation for changes in the Brooklyn Center Police Department. They went from the death of a resident every 18 months to no deaths for three or four years. He has been 5/27/25 -2- interacting with them more because they have been assisting with his group home neighbors. The officers have been cordial and respectful to group home residents. Kevin S. added he spoke with Director of Community Prevention, Health, and Safety LaToya Turk about the work the alternative response teams are doing. Their services are beneficial for Brooklyn Center’s less fortunate people. Nahid K. thanked Council for their participation in meetings and for representing the City of Brooklyn Center. Mayor Graves moved and Councilmember Moore seconded to close the Informal Open Forum at 7:09 p.m. Motion passed unanimously. 5. INVOCATION Councilmember Kragness shared a quote from Zero Dean, “Teamwork sits alongside trust, communication, and tolerance as a building block of the best relationships. Teamwork is not “What can I get out of this relationship?” it's “What can I bring to this relationship to make it better?” Teamwork is the combined commitment to overcome obstacles. It’s support. It’s encouragement. It’s working together. It’s rising to the challenge of bettering yourself for the benefit of the whole. It’s providing the support and encouragement necessary to help others better themselves and succeed in their endeavors.” 6. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA Mayor Graves moved and Councilmember Jerzak seconded to approve the Agenda and Consent Agenda, as amended, with amendments to the minutes as stated during the Study Session and adding 6e. Resolution authorizing the reinstatement fee for Baymont Inn and Suites and authorizing the City of Brooklyn Center to approve and issue the hospitality accommodations license, to the Consent Agenda, and the following consent items were approved: 6a. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. May 5, 2025 – Study Session 2. May 5, 2025 – Regular Session 3. May 5, 2025 – EDA/Work Session 4. May 12, 2025 – Study Session 5. May 12, 2025 – Regular Session 6b. LICENSES AMUSEMENT DEVICES American Legion 6110 Brooklyn Boulevard 5/27/25 -3- FIREWORKS - TEMPORARY Renissance Fireworks 6211 Brooklyn Boulevard GARBAGE HAULER Midwest Grease 220 Ponderosa Road Redwood Falls 56283 MECHANICAL A&E Heating & Air Conditioning 1841 161st Lane NE, Ham Lake 55304 Air Comfort Htg & A/C 19170 Jasper St NW, Anoka 55303 Aquarius Water Conditioning 3180 Country Drive, Little Canada 55117 C & M Heating and Air Conditioning Inc. 7308 Blair Way, Wahkon 56386 Egan Company 11611 Business Park Boulevard, Champlin 55316 GV Heating & Air Inc. 5182 West Broadway, Crystal 55429 Highland Plumbing 718 8th Street NW, Buffalo 55313 Ideal Air, LLC 17900 Aztec Street NW, Andover 55304 Majestic Custom Heating 8800 Royal Court NW, & Air Conditioning Anoka 55303 Optimal Heating and Cooling LLC 5912 Washburn Avenue N, Brooklyn Center 55430 R A Ungerman Construction Co., Inc. 14000 21st Ave N, Plymouth 55447 Residential Heating and Air, Inc.Page 7454 Washington Avenue S, Eden Prairie 55344 5/27/25 -4- Scotts Heating & A/C LLC 2846 Bradshaw Circle S, Buffalo 55313 Shac, LLC 1240 Trapp Rd. Suite A., Eagan 55121 United Heating & A/C Inc. 132 Broadway Street E, Osseo 55369 RENTAL INITIAL (TYPE IV – six-month license) 6807 Humboldt Avenue N B & V Partnership LLC INITIAL (TYPE III – one-year license) 5250 Lakeside Place TMJ Properties LLC INITIAL (TYPE I – three-year license) 6539 Drew Avenue N BM Davis and CH Avitabile RENEWAL (TYPE III – one-year license) 4408 69th Avenue N Dmow Llc 6116 Aldrich Avenue N BRIDGE SFR IV SEED BWR LLC 6628 Camden Drive Wells Bovard RENEWAL (TYPE II – two-year license) 1302 69th Avenue N Aeon Holdings Llc 6220 France Avenue N Ewing Square Acquisition Partners,LP 6130 Scott Avenue N 2017 1 Ih Borrower L P 7201 Riverdale Road G PERSAUD & M PERSAUD RENEWAL (TYPE I – three-year license) 7018 Brooklyn Blvd Mains'l Communities Llc 2801 67th La N P J Carey & M J Carey 3318 Mumford Road Beng Thao & Xong Thao 4900 Zenith Avenue N Ih2 Property Illinois Lp Met Requirements 5/27/25 -5- 6424 Toledo Avenue N HENNEPIN RP FUNDING LLC 7018 Drew Avenue N Michael Bocko SIGNHANGER DeMars Signs 410 93rd Ave, Coon Rapids 55433 Fastsigns Maple Grove-Osseo 300 Central Ave, Osseo 55369 6c. RESOLUTION NO. 2025-053 ACKNOWLEDGING AWARDED FUNDS FROM THE METROPOLITAN REGIONAL ARTS COUNCIL (MRAC) AND AUTHORIZING ACCEPTANCE OF GRANT FUNDS 6d. COMMISSION APPOINTMENTS 6e. RESOLUTION NO. 2025-054 AUTHORIZING THE REINSTATEMENT FEE FOR BAYMONT INN AND SUITES AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF BROOKLYN CENTER TO APPROVE AND ISSUE THE HOSPITALITY ACCOMMODATIONS LICENSE Motion passed unanimously. 7. PRESENTATIONS/PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS/DONATIONS 7a. MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION HIGHWAY 252 / I-94 EIS PROJECT UPDATE Dr. Edwards introduced the item and invited Amber Blanchard, representative of the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT), to continue the presentation. Ms. Blanchard showed a map of the project locations, one of which is Hwy 252 between Hwy 610 in Brooklyn Park and I-94/I-694 in Brooklyn Center. The other project area is I-94 between I- 94/I-694 in Brooklyn Park and North 4th Street and North 3rd Street in downtown Minneapolis. Ms. Blanchard stated the project is in the environmental impact portion. MnDOT has finished the recommendation for the phase regarding whether Hwy 252 should go over or under the local roadways. The next step is to consider Hwy 252 Access Combinations. Following that, the step of Hwy 252/I-94 Mainline Options is the final part of the environmental phase of the overall process. Ms. Blanchard noted Brooklyn Center received $17 million for the 66th Avenue interchange and $1.9 million for the 70th Avenue pedestrian overpass. Hennepin County has received $7 million for the 85th Avenue roadway interchange, and Brooklyn Park has received $10 million for the Brookdale Drive interchange. Overall, the Hwy 252/I-94 project has received $114 million. She 5/27/25 -6- pointed out that the Corridors of Commerce were replaced with Mobility funds which are more flexible. Ms. Blanchard explained there have been some changes in Federal Executive Orders that have impacted the project. On February 11, 1994, Presidential EO 12898 established Environmental Justice. On January 21, 2025, EO 14173 revoked EO 12898 which removed environmental justice and equity from project considerations. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) removed environmental justice as a criterion in the evaluation criteria memo. However, MnDOT’s commitments have not changed. MnDOT is actively working to refine how equity, EJ, community needs, and MnDOT’s values will continue to be incorporated into its processes. MnDOT’s vision, mission, values, scoping, and equity health priorities have not changed. Ms. Blanchard reminded the Council that MnDOT recommended that Hwy 252 go over local road intersections. This method was recommended because of fewer property impacts including relocations, fewer direct impacts on community facilities, a reduction in stormwater impacts, and a reduction in potential biological resources impacts in many areas, and is consistent with stated objectives from the Policy Advisory Committee (PAC). The trade-off is a noise increase. Ms. Blanchard pointed out MnDOT has heard concerns about noise and preferences for the “under” alternative. MnDOT will look for mitigation options during the next phase of the project. Ms. Blanchard stated MnDOT studied how each access combination affects local roadways. They assessed safety, emergency response, traffic, walking and biking, transit, and City maintenance. The overall goal is to improve vehicle safety, vehicle mobility, emergency response times, pedestrian and bicycle safety and mobility, and transit accessibility on local roads. Ms. Blanchard added that MnDOT also studied how well each access combination addressed the project needs and the access combinations’ impacts on social, environmental, and economic criteria. Ms. Blanchard showed a table summarizing the access combination performance. Factors listed include safety, vehicle mobility, transit travel time, likely transit users and accessibility, bike and pedestrian safety, bike and pedestrian mobility and comfort, improved emergency response time, consistency with proposed future land uses and function of access location cross street, potential impacts to businesses and commercial activities, potential property relocations, potential project cost, community facilities, acreage of potential right of way acquisition, and potential property tax impacts. They weighed the factors of accessibility of likely transit users, improved emergency response time, consistency with proposed future land uses and function of access location cross street, potential impacts to businesses and commercial activities, and potential property relocations more heavily, which showed that access combination option one would be the most beneficial. Ms. Blanchard showed images comparing the various access combinations along with the no-build alternative. 5/27/25 -7- Ms. Blanchard explained the benefits of Hwy 252 “over” and the first access combination include Hwy 252 crash reductions of approximately 50 percent for vehicles, bikes, and pedestrians, Hwy 252 improved travel time for vehicles and transit along Hwy 252 and bikes or pedestrians crossing Hwy 252, safer crossings for bikes and pedestrians under Hwy 252, a general reduction in traffic on local roads, reduced emergency response time to neighborhoods by two minutes on average, access to and from Hwy 252 being consistent with City land uses, and a minimized number of relocations. Ms. Blanchard pointed out there is likely to be additional traffic on 65th and 66th Avenue. A potential mitigation is to incorporate spot safety and to construct improvements on 65th and 66th Avenue. There are two potential business relocations and five potential residential locations, and MnDOT is looking for ways to mitigate those situations. Similarly, the potential relocations may have an impact on the tax base. The proposed project would also have increased noise levels, and MnDOT will continue to evaluate the effectiveness of noise walls. Ms. Blanchard reiterated that MnDOT has been and will continue to be in the community which has helped build relationships and get more in-depth on the issues. They acknowledge that both the community and Council have concerns. The plan is not perfect, and there will always be tradeoffs. Ultimately, MnDOT welcomes questions and assistance in assessing the data. She invited the community to join in the virtual table talk and the scheduled in-person open houses. Ms. Blanchard noted they hope to wrap up phase 1b regarding access combinations before the fall. From there, they will begin phase 2 regarding the Hwy 252 and I-94 mainline. Mayor Graves thanked Ms. Blanchard for the presentation. Councilmember Jerzak stated the Council has received a memo stating that MnDOT has recommitted to equity and environmental justice. The environmental impacts on the City are serious. The fair share payments have not been addressed. It is laughable that Brooklyn Center may be responsible for more than $25 million as it would virtually bankrupt the City. Councilmember Jerzak noted he brought up concerns at a recent PAC meeting. He asked how the project would be reconciled if the Federal government doesn’t provide funding. Councilmember Jerzak also asked what the benefit is for Brooklyn Center. Ms. Blanchard explained MnDOT is just starting to discuss the cost-sharing portion of the project, and their cost-sharing policy itself is undergoing changes. The policy changes will be implemented before any construction begins. Some of the changes will be substantial. Ms. Blanchard stated they may need to delay the project if they are lacking funding. Alternatively, they may seek out the funds later on in the project timeline. Ms. Blanchard added community wellness is a separate track of the project, and MnDOT wants to fund that portion of the project regardless of Federal funding. 5/27/25 -8- Councilmember Jerzak explained that MnDOT can say whatever it wants, but he has not seen anything in writing committing to environmental justice and equity. Mayor Graves noted she would be interested in more information on MnDOT’s interest in community wellness. Brooklyn Center is committed to environmental justice. Mayor Graves pointed out air quality will be assessed during a future phase, but it seems like a rather large unknown. She asked why air quality is considered so late in the process. She also asked how the air quality and pollution will be quantified and compared. Ms. Blanchard stated air quality will be analyzed for all ten alternatives. Brooklyn Center has experienced 40 years of signalized highway; the stop-and-go traffic results in emissions. MnDOT is looking at what freeway options may entail. There will be more volume of traffic, but there will be less stop and go traffic. Mayor Graves asked if historical data would be included in the calculations. Ms. Blanchard stated she doesn’t have an answer to that question, but she will look into it further. Councilmember Kragness thanked Ms. Blanchard for her presentation. She stated while she appreciates MnDOT’s verbal commitment to environmental justice, pointing out that the Federal government no longer requires or supports environmental justice efforts shows that MnDOT isn’t required to promote environmental justice. MnDOT has yet to provide any commitments in writing, specifically about air quality and health impacts. Ms. Blanchard stated MnDOT is in new territory, and they are determining how to navigate the new normal. Councilmember Kragness stated if environmental justice is a core value of MnDOT, then it should be in writing. Ms. Blanchard agreed it is very important. Mayor Graves asked for more information on the community wellness plans. Ms. Blanchard explained the journey to community wellness picks up on MnDOT’s previous health assessments. One MnDOT commitment is to engage with the public and other agencies to identify solutions to improve public health and equity. There is an agency advisory group that has met twice. There is also a community advisory group to seek out more alternative solutions. There is a public forum on June 4, 2025, to seek out more solutions from the public. MnDOT cannot fund all ideas because they have a finite budget. However, they hope to fund some ideas while empowering other groups to launch other initiatives. Mayor Graves asked how many Brooklyn Center residents are in the community advisory group. Ms. Blanchard stated she doesn’t have the information, but she will provide the details to the Council. The community advisory group includes clinics or other health sources. The public forum is intended to engage the general public. Mayor Graves stated she would like to see a list of the work group participants to see how well Brooklyn Center is represented. They know Brooklyn Center has been underrepresented historically. 5/27/25 -9- Mayor Graves noted the topic has been somewhat contentious, but Ms. Blanchard has continued to be empathetic and understanding, which is much appreciated by Brooklyn Center. Councilmember Jerzak explained there has been a previous breach of trust, and it is hard to build that back. There is concern that MnDOT will use the repealed EO to benefit itself rather than the impacted communities. Councilmember Kragness moved and Mayor Graves seconded to accept the presentation from the Minnesota Department of Transportation. Motion passed unanimously. 7b. RESOLUTION NO. 2025-055 RECOGNIZING MAY 2025 AS ASIAN AMERICAN, NATIVE HAWAIIAN, AND PACIFIC ISLANDER (AANHPI) HERITAGE MONTH Mayor Graves read in full a Proclamation recognizing May 2025 as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month. Councilmember Kragness moved and Councilmember Moore seconded to adopt a RESOLUTION Recognizing May 2025 as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month. Motion passed unanimously. Mayor Graves called for a brief recess at 7:50 p.m. Mayor Graves recalled the meeting at 8:00 p.m. 8. PUBLIC HEARINGS 9. PLANNING COMMISSION ITEMS 9a. PLANNING COMMISSION APPLICATION NO. 2025-003 SUBMITTED BY CHARLOTTE PRATT OF OH PRETTI! EVENTS & RENTALS LLC FOR ISSUANCE OF A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR A MULTI-PURPOSE EVENT SPACE AND COMMERCIAL KITCHEN (6820 HUMBOLDT AVENUE NORTH) City Manager Reggie Edwards introduced the item and invited City Planner Krystin Eldridge to continue the Staff presentation. Associate Planner Krystin Eldridge reviewed a request for a Conditional Use Permit. Ms. Eldridge stated Charlotte Pratt of Oh Pretti! Events and Rentals LLC is requesting review and consideration of a proposal to open an approximately 2,051-square-foot multi-purpose event space and dedicated 5/27/25 -10- catering kitchen at 6820 Humboldt Avenue North in the Humboldt Shopping Center. Upon review of the proposal, it was determined that the Applicant will require approval of a conditional use permit, assuming a most similar use of “Banquet, Event, or Conference Facility.” Ms. Eldridge noted that the owner of the property, Thomas Kite, purchased the property in 2021. He owns approximately 4.1 acres, which makes up the entirety of the Humboldt Shopping Center. The property is zoned Neighborhood Mixed Use 2 (MX-N2). Ms. Eldridge showed images of the location of the property. She stated that it is located next to the House of Hui’s, and Scoreboard Pizza is nearby. Ms. Eldridge noted that the Applicant approached them in March of 2025 after their lease was executed for the property. She stated Oh Pretti! Events & Rentals LLC specializes in tailored event planning, luxury furniture rentals, and custom-designed decorative cakes. They cater for weddings, corporate events, and other celebrations, offering a suite of services and partnerships to have a full events planning experience. The Applicant has an established online presence through their social media page and business website, where services may be booked. Ms. Eldridge explained that the Applicant provided the City Staff with an interior floor plan, which identifies the approximately 2,051-square-foot space and is primarily proposed for a flexible, open space located at the front of the tenant space. The Applicant has been in discussion with City Staff regarding the installation of a second bathroom, a new catering kitchen, and a storage area. Ms. Eldridge noted that the space was previously set up as a small market, Value Foods, although they did offer some convenience services in their suite, the space needs to be reconfigured a bit to meet the Applicant’s needs. Ms. Eldridge explained that the Applicant has met with City Staff to discuss potential interior layout modifications to address any ingress, egress, and emergency routing needs, as well as placement for kitchen coolers, and a revised bathroom layout. Ms. Eldridge explained “multi-use” or “flex spaces” as an increasing use in the community. These spaces are typically much smaller. They shift between uses depending on who wants to use the space, such as a conference center, a wedding venue, or a birthday party. The space can host both informal and formal events. Ms. Eldridge stated that the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) does not address this type of use; however, given the flexibility in use, the times used, the presence of a catering kitchen, and a dedicated assembly/events space, they are requesting a Conditional Use Permit. Ms. Eldridge added that the case-by-case nature of the Conditional Use Permit allows Staff and Planning Commission to review the business operations, the targeted events, the location of the use, the adjacent permitted uses, noise considerations, traffic, and any adverse impacts to other properties. She noted that should any major concerns arise as part of the review process, the City may apply conditions as part of any approval. 5/27/25 -11- Ms. Eldridge stated that the Applicant plans to install an in-house catering kitchen; however, outside food may be permitted with prior approval. An on-site manager will be present during business hours and available during events. The Applicant projects between eight and 12 events per month, which will last about four to six hours in length. The occupancy load for the space is 111 persons; however, the provided interior seating layout provides accommodation for up to 80 seats, the business narrative indicates the event space will more typically host between 50 to 75 guests, and the Applicant will provide seven staff or more if needed. Ms. Eldridge noted that the hours of operation for the Applicant would be Monday through Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Friday 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m., Saturday 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m., and Sunday 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Ms. Eldridge added that if one were to calculate the parking, assuming this was a public place for assembly and eating and drinking, it would require 30 parking spaces, which is inclusive of four spaces needed for seven staff. The site has approximately 268 on-site parking spaces, which are not well-striped or maintained, so it is hard to calculate; however, if constructed today, they are overparked if used for a retail center calculation, which would need a maximum of 160 parking spaces for the entire shopping center. Ms. Eldridge stated that Conditional Use Permits, as outlined under Section 35-7700, are those uses that have been identified because of their nature, operation, locations, special requirements, or characteristics, that they have to be considered for the Planning Commission and City Council. Ms. Eldridge noted that the City Council may not grant the Conditional Use Permit unless particular criteria are met. She added that they work with the property owner to think about how the parking lot is being lit, to provide safety. The Applicant is putting up security cameras and offering security staff so that people can safely leave and come freely to the events. Knowing that there are many places around that are zoned residential, the Applicant wants to be a good neighbor to all. They do not believe there will be many traffic concerns. She added that there are two curb cuts on the property, so people can leave where necessary off those curb cuts. There is no worry about congestion due to the abundance of parking. Ms. Eldridge noted that for the anticipated permitting and conditions, the Applicant should adhere to the provisions and the outline conditional use permit section. The issuance of a conditional permit is subject to all applicable codes, ordinances, and regulations. Any violations, therefore, may be grounds for revocation. The Applicant shall obtain any and all permit or licensing approvals from Hennepin County Health, the State of Minnesota, and the City. Ms. Eldridge added that any music or sound emissions shall be contained or confined to the tenant’s space and shall not project past property lines. The Applicant did offer to install sound barriers in the space, to keep the noise impacts down that may be typical of this sort of space. Exterior site lighting shall be maintained and kept in operating condition outside of the main west doors and the rear east doors at all times. She stated that the City Code does require that proper addressing be had, so the applicant must work with the property owner to install numerals. She 5/27/25 -12- added that any outside trash disposal facilities shall be contained in the on-site dumpsters. The east drive aisle shall remain free and clear for emergency access. Also, all sign permitting should be followed as well. Ms. Eldridge added a public hearing was held at the Planning Commission meeting on May 8, 2025, where Applicant Charlotte Pratt described the proposed multi-use space as not only an event facility, but a location for social and community gatherings, and sees this type of use as a need in the community. Discussions with the Planning Commission surrounded how their use would be complementary to other tenants and uses in the neighborhood and any potential for conflicts (e.g. parking), noise, security, hours of operation, and event center operations. The Applicant provided the commissioners with examples of their work, which include small weddings, birthdays, and corporate events. Ms. Elrdidge noted that also at the meeting, the Applicant noted that anyone reserving their space could either enter into a contract for their catering services or elect to utilize an outside vendor. Similarly, the Applicant indicated no plans to obtain a liquor license. If someone would like liquor available during an event, they would need to contract separately with a licensed mobile bartending service and provide copies of any licensure, insurance coverage, etc. Ms. Eldridge pointed out that one of the commissioners noted that, while it was no fault of the Applicant, the Commissioner would like to see the owner of the Humboldt Shopping Center invest in their property by providing better lighting, improving the parking lot, which is degraded, and re-striping the parking lot. Ms. Eldridge stated following close of the public hearing, the Planning Commission elected to unanimously (5-0) recommend City Council approval of the requested issuance of a conditional use permit for an approximately 2,051-square-foot multi-use event space with a dedicated commercial kitchen, subject to the Applicant complying with the conditions as outlined in the Planning Commission Report dated May 8, 2025, and associated resolution. Councilmember Jerzak welcomed the business to Brooklyn Center and wished them luck. Councilmember Kragness pointed out the website looks great, as does the menu. Councilmember Moore noted her agreement with Councilmember Kragness. Councilmember Kragness moved and Councilmember __ seconded to adopt a RESOLUTION approving Planning Commission Application No. 2025-003 for issuance of a conditional use permit for the Subject Property located at 6820 Humboldt Ave North for an approximately 2,051- square-foot multi-purpose event space and commercial kitchen (Banquet, Conference, and Event Facility), based on the findings of fact and submitted application, and as amended by the conditions of approval in the resolution. Motion passed unanimously. 5/27/25 -13- 9b. PLANNING COMMISSION APPLICATION NO. 2025-004 FOR APPROVAL OF A PRELIMINARY AND FINAL PLAT FOR ADMIRAL LANE ADDITION AND DEDICATION OF CERTAIN RIGHT OF WAY (LOCATED IN THE VICINITY OF ADMIRAL LANE AND BROOKLYN BOULEVARD) City Manager Reggie Edwards introduced the item and invited Zoning and Planning Administrator Ginny to continue the Staff presentation. Zoning and Planning Administrator Ginny McIntosh reviewed a request for a preliminary and final plat, with nothing else attached to it. The City of Brooklyn Center is requesting approval of a preliminary and final plat for Admiral Lane Addition, which contemplates the creation of three out lots, the dedication of right-of-way, and certain drainage and utility easements. Ms. McIntosh showed images of the section on Admiral Lane and noted a nearby building, the Cross of Glory Church. Ms. McIntosh shared images of the preliminary plat that was prepared for the city by SRF, they were one of the consultants on the Brooklyn Boulevard project. She highlighted that there are three outlots: outlot A, just north of the Cross of Glory Church roof on the vacated portion of Admiral Lane, outlot B, and outlot C on the north side. These three outlots are being proposed because Public Works would like to ultimately see that the City no longer owns them, due to there not being much left of the outlots. Ms. McIntosh added that outlot C is in a little corner and that the resident’s driveway was moved off of Brooklyn Boulevard, and then a new curb was put in because they were trying to limit access to Brooklyn Boulevard. The resident’s driveway was shifted onto the newly realigned portion of Admiral Lane, leaving a tiny piece of grass on outlot C, which is unbuildable but needs to be mowed by the City. Ms. McIntosh explained that outlot B had a house on the property, which the Public Works Department worked with the owner to purchase the property, and it became a majority section of road with a little piece in the corner. The outlot B is a low-density residential lot but does not meet the minimum to be a legal lot. The outlot is being mowed and maintained, but it is unclear what is being done with it. Ms. McIntosh stated that outlot A is the largest portion of the three lots, however, this is the vacated portion of Admiral Lane, but the underground infrastructure was kept here. She added that this presents an issue because nothing can be constructed on top of the underground utilities, but it is unclear what is being done with it. Ms. McIntosh shared an image of the final plat. She described that the image is line work, and ultimately, what is recorded at the County and updated for parcel maps. She stated that the key goal with outlot A is to dedicate easements because the City needs to maintain access to those underground utilities to repair, maintain, and eventually replace them. 5/27/25 -14- Ms. McIntosh stated that outlots B and C are unbuildable. She added that the realignment of Admiral was determined as part of the modernization efforts of Brooklyn Boulevard development over the past 50 years or so, which created a corridor that did not function as well as it should. So there was a lot of focus on trail and sidewalk connections for pedestrians and bicyclists, as can be seen now with the new sidewalk and multi-use trail along Brooklyn Boulevard, and then transit facilities. Ms. McIntosh added that in 2013, the City of Brooklyn Center, in cooperation with Hennepin County, Three Rivers Park District, Minnesota Department of Transportation, and Metro Transit, performed a corridor study along Brooklyn Boulevard from Interstate 94 to 49th Avenue. She stated that the project goals were aimed at enhancing traffic operations and improving roadway safety. She added that the key thing for the Brooklyn Boulevard project was getting curb cuts off of Brooklyn Boulevard, as it is a County road. There are still many single-family neighbors that are attempting to back out onto Brooklyn Boulevard, which may have as many as 20,000 to 30,000 cars per day. The City was trying to eliminate as many curb cuts as possible, leaving one property that had to shift its curb cut to Admiral. Then some curb cuts were consolidated as much as possible. She noted that one of the key things was for Admiral Lane to align with 60th Avenue North. Ms. McIntosh stated that there have been some discussions with property owners who are adjacent to each of these outlots to gauge their interest in potentially acquiring these parcels. She reiterated that the focus should be on creating outlots, dedicating right-of-way, and dedicated easements. She added that there have been no final determinations at this time for selling off the outlots and that would require a separate action by either the City or the EDA. Ms. McIntosh pointed out that the City of Brooklyn Center Public Works Department mows both 6000 Ewing Avenue North and 6001 Brooklyn Boulevard. The total weekly effort moving the properties during the summer months requires six to eight hours of Staff time each summer to maintain what are effectively unbuildable parcels. A transfer in ownership would eliminate this ongoing task and improve operational efficiency. Ms. McIntosh noted that in the case of 6001 Brooklyn Boulevard, which is adjacent to Cross of Glory Lutheran Church, this portion of land contains the former alignment of Admiral Lane as well as underground City infrastructure. The City intends to retain access to these areas to ensure continued access for inspection, maintenance, and future repairs. Ms. McIntosh stated that the City did work with SRF Consulting Group, Inc. back and forth, so the plat that was shown was revised multiple times to add in information that was needed for the preliminary plat. The plat identifies proposed five-foot easements for adjoining lot lines and ten- foot easements along public ways unless otherwise indicated. Ms. McIntosh added that a public hearing notice was published in the Brooklyn Center Sun Post on April 24, 2025, for the preliminary and final plat. Mail notifications were mailed to all taxpayers and physical properties within 350 feet of the Subject Property, and the notice was posted to the City of Brooklyn Center’s website and subscribers of the City’s weekly events bulletin. 5/27/25 -15- Ms. McIntosh stated that on May 8, 2025, the Planning Commission held a public hearing regarding the request for plat approval of ADMIRAL LANE ADDITION. One resident called in and requested clarification on the Planning Commission request to re-plat the Subject Property and expressed some frustration that the re-aligned Admiral Lane did not appear to address safety concerns such as speeding. City Staff indicated they could bring up these concerns with Public Works for discussion. Ms. McIntosh noted another resident, who is adjacent to proposed Outlot C, attended the meeting to learn more about the City’s plans for the excess lands and was worried his new driveway curb cut, which was relocated from Brooklyn Boulevard to Admiral Lane, would be sold off, and he would no longer have access to his property. City Staff let the resident know they would follow up with him, but that it was not the City’s intent to remove access to his property. The resident asked if the City could look into providing public hearing notices in alternative languages, such as Spanish. Ms. McIntosh added another resident made reference to the neighboring Cross of Glory Lutheran Church and if there were options for proposed Outlot A to have a cultural or public art installation. Ms. McIntosh stated City staff received communication from two other residents regarding the public hearing notice; however, their inquiries were not directed necessarily at the subdivision of land and dedication of right-of-way, but rather at the potential for redevelopment. Ms. McIntosh explained following close of the public hearing, the Planning Commission elected to unanimously (5-0) recommend City Council approval of the requested preliminary and final plats for ADMIRAL LANE ADDITION and dedication of certain right-of-way (ROW) for the Subject Property located in the vicinity of Admiral Lane and Brooklyn Boulevard, subject to the Applicant complying with the conditions as outlined in the Planning Commission report dated May 8, 2025, and associated resolution. Mayor Graves noted she also considered alternative uses such as a pollinator garden which would require less maintenance for mowing. Ms. McIntosh stated church leadership has had initial discussions about acquiring the largest parcel which is next to the Cross of Glory Church. Another outlot is mainly a driveway and doesn’t have enough land for another use. Councilmember Jerzak pointed out that a garden next to the church would require water access, which could only come from the church. Overall, he is supportive of selling the lots to the adjacent properties. Councilmember Jerzak moved and Mayor Graves seconded to adopt a RESOLUTION approving Planning Commission Application No. 2025-004 for preliminary and final plat approval of Admiral Lane Addition and dedication of certain right-of-way, based on the findings of fact and submitted plans, and as amended by the conditions of approval in the resolution. 5/27/25 -16- Motion passed unanimously. 10. COUNCIL CONSIDERATION ITEMS 11. COUNCIL REPORT Mayor Graves reported on her attendance at the following and provided information on the following upcoming events: • Attended a meeting about Kenyan Independence Day. • Attended the Northwest Cable Commission quarterly meeting. • Attended the 252 PAC meeting. • Attended the National League of Cities Federal Advocacy meeting. • Attended the Northwest Tourism Executive Committee meeting. • Participated in a biweekly meeting with Dr. Edwards. • Met with Brooklyn Bridge Alliance about youth on boards. • Attended the Northwest Tourism Happy Hour. • Attended the Park Center Orchestra Concert. • Attended the Osseo American Indian Ceremony for graduating seniors. • Spoke at the Rise and Remember event at George Floyd Square • Noted she will be doing the welcome for Ilhan Omar’s event the following day, attending the community meeting, and possibly attending a choir concert. 12. ADJOURNMENT Councilmember Kragness moved and Councilmember Jerzak seconded adjournment of the City Council meeting at 8:21 p.m. Motion passed unanimously.