HomeMy WebLinkAbout1979 09-10 CCM Regular Session MINUTES OF THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF BROOKLYN CENTER IN THE COUNTY OF
HENNEPIN AND THE STATE OF MINNESOTA
i
REGULAR SESSION
SEPTEMBER 10, 1979
CITY HALL
CALL TO ORDER
The Brooklyn Center City Council met in regular session and was called to order by
Mayor Dean Nyquist at 7:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Mayor Dean Nyquist, Councilmembers Gene Lhotka and Celia Scott. Also present was
City Manager Gerald Splinter, City Attorney Richard Schieffer, Director of Planning
and Inspection Ron Warren, Director of Public Works Sy Knapp, Director of Finance
Paul Holmlund, Superintendent of Engineering James Noska, and Administrative Assistants
Brad Hoffman and Tom Bublitz.
Mayor Nyquist noted that Councilmember Tony Kuefler was ill and was excused. Mayor
Nyquist also noted that Councilmember Bill Fignar had indicated that he would be
late but would be in attandance at: the meeting. Mayor Nyquist noted that a quorum
was present and that it be so noted in the minutes.
INVOCATION
The invocation was offered by Mayor Nyquist.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES — AUGUST 27, 1979
Mayor Nyquist noted several corrections to be made in the August 27, 1979 City Council
minutes. On page three, the third sentence in the fourth paragraph is to be stricken
from the minutes. On page eight in the seventh paragraph, Councilmember Lhotka's name
is to be stricken from the minutes since he was not in attendance at the meeting. On
page eight, the last two sentences in the sixth paragraph should read as follows:
"The Director of Public Works indicated that there is no median cut there to allow
that. David Shaw, architect for Farmers and Mechanics, indicated that he agreed with
the problems being expressed and that the exit to Xerxes should be eliminated (entrance
only),"
There was a motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Mayor Nyquist to approve the
minutes of the City Council meeting of August 27, 1979 as corrected. Voting in favor:
Mayor Nyquist and Councilmember Scott. Voting against: none. The motion passed.
Councilmember Lhotka abstained as he was not present at that meeting.
OPEN FORUM
Mayor Nyquist opened the meeting for the purpose of the Open Forum session. Mayor
Nyquist recognized Mr. Leo Hanson, 4903 Brooklyn Boulevard, who wished to address
the problem of dying lawns in the area of Howe, Inc. Mr. Hanson stated that he and
his neighbors met with Tom Howe, his father, and their attorney and stated that the
Howes indicated at that meeting that they would not help with the repair of their
yards. Mr. Hanson indicated that Howe, Inc. had already aided with the repair of
some State owned property in the area and he asked what Howe intends to do concerning
the repair of the City boulevard in the area. The City Manager indicated to Mr.
Hanson that the boulevard along 49th is the responsibility of adjacent property
owners. The City Attorney stated that the City uses the boulevard for snow storage,
street expansion, etc., but that it is the property owners' responsibility to main-
tain the appearance of the boulevard. The City Attorney stated that it is the
property owners' responsibility to maintain the boulevard area adjacent to his
property as if it were the property owner's lawn.
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Mr. Hanson then stated that Howe, Inc. is building a dike around their acid tank and
questioned whether or not any permit was required by the City of Brooklyn Center for
this construction. The City Manager stated that no permit was required by Brooklyn
Center for this action, but that it was reviewed by the City. Mr. Hanson then
expressed concern over an area that he referred to as a drainage area. The City
Manager indicated that this land was owned by Soo Line Railroad, and that the
Pollution Control Agency had ordered the Soo Line to clean up the Atrazine in this
area. Mr. Hanson then stated that this "pothole" situation has gone on for seven
years.
Mr. Hanson inquired about the status of the lawsuits against Howe, Inc. The City
Attorney indicated that several lawsuits were now pending against Howe, Inc. He
further stated that Howe has brought motions to sever the lawsuits one by one but
that all motions to spearate the lawsuits have been denied. The City Attorney also
stated that on September 13, 1979 a motion will be made to have one judge hear all
lawsuits now pending against Howe in the civil courts. The City Attorney also stated
that the City will not oppose this action. Mr. Hanson indicated that he will continue
to oppose Howe, Inc. in this matter.
Mr. Fred Fournier, 4900 Zenith Avenue North, indicated that some type of drain has
been installed which extends from Howe to Ryan Lake. The City Manager stated that
he will examine the situation in response to Mr. Fournier's concern.
Councilmember Bill Fignar arrived at 7:20 p.m.
Mayor Nyquist recognized Mr. Thomas Howard, 2800 64th Avenue North, who wished to
address the problem of diseased elms within the City and also to comment an the
Brooklane Park shelter building. Mr. Howard stated that he felt that more diseased
trees should be marked and removed. He further stated that lie holds a degree in
forestry and feels qualified to comment on the diseased tree problem. Mr. Howard
stated that he contacted the City's Park and Recreation Department and was told that
the tree inspector was only part -time. Mr. Howard also stated that, sanitation of
diseased elm trees is the only way to prevent the disease from spreading at the ,
present time.
Mr. Howard indicated that he has a child attending Garden City School who also makes
use of Brooklane Park. At 9:30 a.m. last Sunday, Mr. Howard.stated that he saw the
remains of what appeared to be a party at Brooklane Park. He stated that he saw
beer cans lying about the park and also that the building was open with the lights
out.. He further stated that obscene words had been painted on the Brooklane Park
shelter building and that he felt this was a particularly bad situation since it
is visible from Brooklyn Boulevard. Mr. Howard then asked if any tags had been
issued by the Brooklyn Center Police Department in Brooklane Park over the past
weekend. The City Manager stated that vandalism is a problem in many of the City
parks. He also stated that the wooden structure, upon which the obscene words had
been written, is scheduled to be demolished within a few days. The City Manager
indicated that tags have been issued by the Police Department in many City parks
throughout the summer. Mr. Howard then questioned whether or not any tags had been
issued in Brooklane Park last Saturday night. The City Manager stated that he will
find out whether or not tags had been issued in the park last weekend and relay the
information to Mr. Howard. The City Manager also stated that the Brooklane Park _.
shelter building will be discussed later tonight.
Mayor Nyquist inquired if there was anyone else present who wished to address the
Council as part of the Open Forum; there being none, the Mayor proceeded with the
rest of the meeting.
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PERFORMANCE BOND RELEASE
The City Manager referred the Council to a memorandum on a performance bond release
from the Office of Planning and Inspection. He stated that the performance guarantee
of Swanson Homes, 7240 West River Road, was recommended for release. There was a
motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Councilmember Lhotka to approve the
performance bond release recommended in the memorandum from the Office of Planning
and Inspection in the amount listed. Voting in favor: Mayor Nyquist, Council-
members Fignar, Lhotka, and Scott. Voting against: none. The motion passed
unanimously.
RESOLUTIONS
The City Manager introduced a resolution which would provide for the extension of
senior citizens sewer discount. Councilmember Fignar asked if the discount had any
bearings on the number of people in the home. The City Manager stated that the
requirements on the numbers of people residing in the home remains the same. He
stated that the discount is based on usage and that two persons residing in the
home qualify for the discount while three persons residing in a residence do not.
The City Manager referred Council members to a memo by Sy Knapp, Director of Public
Works, regarding the extension of senior citizens sewer discount. He stated it is
important to pass this extension particularly in light of the upcoming winter months.
RESOLUTION NO. 79 -200 v
Member Gene Lhotka introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION AMENDING THE SCHEDULE OF RATES AND FEES FOR THE USE OF AND CONNECTION
TO THE SANITARY SEWER SYSTEM OF THE CITY OF BROOKLYN CENTER
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member
Celia Scott, and upon vote being taken thereon, the following voted in favor thereof:
Dean Nyquist, Bill Fignar, Gene Lhotka, and Celia Scott; and the following voted against
the same: none, whereupon said resolution was declared duly passed and adopted.
RESOLUTION NO. 79 -201
Member Gene Lhotka introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION REQUESTING AREA LEGISLATORS TO SPONSOR LEGISLATION TO AUTHORIZE SEWER
SERVICE DISCOUNTS FOR HANDICAPPED PERSONS AND FOR LOW - INCOME PERSONS
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by
member Bill Fignar, and upon vote being taken thereon, the following voted in
favor thereof: Dean Nyquist, Bill Fignar, Gene Lhotka, and Celia Scott; and the
following voted against the same: none, whereupon said resolution was declared
duly passed and adopted.
The City Manager introduced a resolution accepting quotations for a Reforestation
Contract, 1979 -F. He referred Council members to a list of bidders.
RESOLUTION NO. 79 =202
Member Celia Scott introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION ACCEPTING QUOTATION FOR REFORESTATION IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 1979 -7
(CONTRACT 1979 -F)
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by
member Bill Fignar, and upon vote being taken thereon, the following voted in
favor thereof: Dean Nyquist, Bill Fignar, Gene Lhotka, and Celia Scott; and
the following voted against the same: none, whereupon said resolution was
declared duly passed and adopted.
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The City Manager introduced a resolution requesting the Metropolitan Housing and
Redevelopment Authority to provide administrative services for Brooklyn Center's
Housing Rehabilitation Grant Program. He stated that the City is piggybacking the
State HRA program and that we will have the Metropolitan HRA provide administrative
services for our program for a fee of $8,000.
RESOLUTION NO. 79 -203
Member Gene Lhotka introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption:
.RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE METROPOLITAN COUNCIL HOUSING REHABILITATION AUTHORITY
TO PROVIDE ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES FOR THE CITY OF BROOKLYN CENTER'S HOME
REHABILITATION GRANT PROGRAM
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by
member Bill Fignar, and upon vote being taken thereon, the following voted in
favor thereof: Dean Nyquist, Bill Fignar, Gene Lhotka, and Celia Scott; and the
following voted against the same: none, whereupon said resolution was declared
duly passed and adopted.
The City Manager introduced a resolution authorizing the Brooklyn Center Volunteer
Fire Department to use certain State owned houses within the City of Brooklyn Center
for training purposes.
RESOLUTION NO. 79 -204
Member Celia Scott introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE BROOKLYN CENTER VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT TO USE
CERTAIN STATED OWNED HOUSES IN THE CITY OF BROOKLYN CENTER FOR TRAINING PURPOSES
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by
member Gene Lhotka, and upon vote being taken thereon, the following voted in
favor thereof: Dean Nyquist, Bill Fignar, Gene Lhotka, and Celia Scott; and the
following voted against the same: none, whereupon said resolution was declared
duly passed and adopted.
RESOLUTION NO. 79 -205
Member Bill Fignar introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION AMENDING RESOLUTION NO. 79 -192, ADOPTED AUGUST 27, 1979, APPROVING
PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS AND DIRECTING ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS FOR BITUMINOUS
PAVING CONTRACT 1979 -G
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by
member Gene Lhotka, and upon vote being taken thereon, the following voted in
favor thereof: Dean Nyquist, Bill Fignar, Gene Lhotka, and Celia Scott; and the
following voted against the same: none, whereupon said resolution was declared
duly passed and adopted.
ORDINANCES
The City Manager introduced an ordinance to vacate the alley between Emerson and
Fremont Avenues North and between 56th and 57th Avenues North. There was a motion
by Councilmember Lhotka and seconded by Councilmember Fignar to offer for first
reading an ordinance to vacate the alley between Emerson and Fremont Avenues North
and between 56th and 57th Avenues North. Voting in favor: Mayor Nyquist, Council-
members Fignar, Lhotka, and Scott. Voting against: none. The motion passed
unanimously.
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REVIEW OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS WHICH ARE TO BE LEVIED THIS YEAR
The Superintendent of Engineering referred Council members to a series of handouts
covering the review of special assessments. He noted that in Project No. 1977 -19,
a street surfacing project along Lyndale Avenue North, that the Minnesota Department
of Transportation would pay 800 of the project cost. The Superintendent of Engineering
stated that, except in Project No. 1978 -24, grading, base and surfacing along Aldrich
Avenue North, we have been under the project estimates. In this particular project
there have been certain unanticipated soil problems which necessitated installation
of a subdrain system. The Superintendent also noted that, in Projects 1978 -32 and
1978 -35, it would be more appropriate to cover the costs by developers bonds
rather than assessments.. The Superintendent also noted other miscellaneous assess-
ments including, public hazard removal, delinquent weed destruction accounts,
delinquent public utility accounts, and diseased shade tree removal costs.
RECOMMENDATION TO PURCHASE FILL FOR CENTRAL PARK GRADING PROJECT
The City Manager referred Council members to a memo and accompanying resolution from
the Director of Public Works, regarding purchase of fill materials for Central Park
grading project.
RESOLUTION NO. 79 -206
Member Celia Scott introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF FILL MATERIALS FOR CENTRAL PARK GRADING
PROJECT NO. 1978 -41
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member
Gene Lhotka, and upon vote being taken thereon, the following voted in favor thereof:
Dean Nyquist, Bill Fignar, Gene Lhotka, and Celia Scott; and the following voted
against the same: none, whereupon said resolution was declared duly passed and adopted.
BROOKLANE PARK SHELTER BUILDING
The City Manager stated that alternatives for a shelter building in Brooklane Park
are being explored and that one of the possible solutions is a portable building
on wheels which would be used for an interim measure. Councilmember Fignar asked
if the trailer would be used as a warming house. The City Manager explained that it
would and that the City of Blaine has used this type of building successfully. He
stated that it is approximately 20' x 10' and that a satellite toilet facility would
be used along with it. Councilmember Lhotka asked if the portable building would be
placed in the ground or on blocks. The City Manager explained that the portable
building would be set into the ground and not placed on blocks in order that it
would not be rocked off its foundations.
Mayor Nyquist noted that Eileen Moran, the representative from the Northwest
Hennepin Human Services Council was not yet in attendance at the meeting and that
the discussion of recommendations from the Northwest Hennepin Human Services Council
regarding a community action agency for suburban and rural Hennepin County would be
laid over until Eileen Moran's appearance at the meeting.
HOUSING REHABILITATION GUIDELINES
The City Manager referred the Council members to a memo from Brad Hoffman, Admini-
strative Assistant, regarding Brooklyn Center Housing Rehabilitation Grant selection
criteria. Councilmember Lhotka asked if the guidelines had been changed. Admini-
strative Assistant Hoffman stated that the guidelines were the same except for a
change in the income limits. Councilmember Fignar stated that the Housing Commission
put a considerable amount of work into the development of these guidelines with Brad
Hoffman's assistance. There was a motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by
Councilmember Fignar to approve the Housing Rehabilitation Guidelines. Voting in
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favor: Mayor Nyquist, Councilmembers Fignar, Lhotka, and Scott. Voting against:
none. The.motion passed unanimously.
GAMBLING LICENSES
Motion by Councilmember Fignar and seconded by Councilmember Scott to approve an
application for a bingo license for the Twin Lake Alano Society, Inc. Voting in
favor: Mayor Nyquist, Councilmembers Fignar, Lhotka, and Scott. Voting against:
none. The motion passed_ unanimously.
Motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Councilmember Lhotka to waive the
$10,000 fidelity bond requirement for the Twin Lake Alano Society, Inc. bingo
license. Voting in favor: Mayor Nyquist, Councilmembers Fignar, Lhotka, and Scott.
Voting against: none. The motion passed unanimously.
Motion by Councilmember Lhotka and seconded by Councilmember Fignar to approve a
Class A gambling License for the Cross of Glory Lutheran Church. Voting in favor:
Mayor Nyquist, Councilmembers Fignar, Lhotka, and Scott. Voting against: none.
The motion passed unanimously.
Motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Councilmember Fignar to waive the
$10,000 fidelity bond requirement for the Cross of Glory Lutheran Church gambling
license. Voting in favor: Mayor Nyquist, Councilmembers Fignar, Lhotka, and Scott.
Voting against: none. The motion passed unanimously.
LICENSES
Motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Councilmember Lhotka to approve the
following list of licenses:
BINGO LICENSE
Twin Lake Alano Society 6825 71st Ave. No.
GAMBLING LICENSE
Cross of Glory Lutheran Church 4019 58th Ave. No.
GARBAGE AND REFUSE COLLECTION VEHICLE LICENSE
Walter's Disposal Service 2830 101st Ave. N.E.
(one additional truck
Voting in favor: Mayor Nyquist, Councilmembers Fignar, Lhotka, and Scott. Voting
against: none. The motion passed unanimously.
PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED 1980 BUDGET
The City Manager explained the public hearing had been scheduled for 8:00 p.m. to
introduce the proposed 1980 City Budget.
Mayor Nyquist opened the meeting for the purpose of a public hearing on the proposed
1980 City Budget. The Mayor asked if there were any questions of a general nature
relating to the proposed Budget. There was a motion by Councilmember Lhotka and
seconded by Councilmember Fignar to carry the public hearing on the proposed 1980
Budget over to the City Council meeting scheduled for'September 17, 1979. Voting
in favor: Mayor Nyquist, Councilmembers Fignar, Lhotka, and Scott. Voting against:
none. The motion passed unanimously.
PUBLIC HEARING ON INDUSTRIAL REVENUE BOND PROPOSAL -DALE TILE
Mayor Nyquist stated that this was the time and place fixed by Resolution No. 79-197
of this Council, adopted on August 27, 1979, for a public hearing on the proposal
that the City undertake and finance a project on behalf of Dale Tile, Inc., pursuant
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to Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 474. The Clerk presented affidavits showing publica-
tion of the notice of the public hearing at least once not less than 15 nor more
than 30 days prior to the date fixed for hearing in the Brooklyn Center Post, being
the official newspaper of the City and the Minneapolis Tribune, being a newspaper
of general circulation of the City. The affidavits were examined, found to be
satisfactory and ordered placed on file with the Clerk.
The Mayor then opened the meeting for a public hearing on the proposed project.
The purpose of the hearing was explained, the nature of the project and of the
proposed revenue bonds were discussed, the draft copy of the application to the
Commissioner of Securities with all attachments and exhibits was available, and all
persons present who desired to do so were afforded an opportunity to express their
views with respect to the proposal to undertake and finance the project. There was
no one to speak at the public hearing. There was a motion by Councilmember Scott
and seconded by Councilmember Lhotka to close the public hearing on the industrial
revenue bond proposal from Dale Tile, Inc. Voting in favor: Mayor Nyquist, Council-
members Fignar, Lhotka, and Scott. Voting against: none. The motion passed
unanimously.
RESOLUTION NO. 79 -207
Member Celia Scott introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption:
R
RESOLUTION GIVING PRELIMINARY APPROVAL TO A PROPOSED INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
BY WILLIAM J. DALE UNDER THE MUNICIPAL INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT ACT, AUTHORIZING THE
SUBMISSION OF AN APPLICATION TO THE COMMISSIONER OF SECURITIES FOR APPROVAL THEREOF
AND AUTHORIZING THE PREPARATION OF DOCUMENTS AND MATERIALS IN CONNECTION WITH THE
PROJECT
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by
member Bill Fig nar, and. on vote being taken thereon the following g voted in
� P �
favor thereof: Dean Nyquist, Bill Fignar, Gene Lhotka, and Celia Scott; and the
following voted against the same: none, whereupon said resolution was declared
duly passed and adopted.
PUBLIC HEARING ON INDUSTRIAL REVENUE BOND PROPOSAL- MEDTRONICS, INC.
The Mayor stated that this was the time and place fixed by Resolution No. 79 -197
of this Council, adopted on August 27, 1979, for a public hearing on the proposal
that the City undertake and finance a project on behalf of Medtronics, Inc., pursuant
to Minnesota Statutes; Chapter 474. The Clerk presented affidavits showing publica
tion of the notice of the public hearing at least once not less than 15 nor more than
30 days prior to the date fixed for hearing in the Brooklyn Center Post, being the
official newspaper of the City and the Minneapolis Tribune, being a newspaper of
general circulation of the City. The affidavits were examined, found to be satis-
factory and ordered placed on file with the Clerk.
The Mayor then opened the meeting for a public hearing on the proposed project.
The purpose of the hearing was explained, the nature of the project and of the
proposed revenue bonds were discussed, the draft copy of the application to the
commissioner of Securities with all attachments and exhibits was available, and
all persons present who desired to do so were afforded an opportunity to express
their views with respect to the proposal to undertake and finance the project.
There was no one to speak at the public hearing. There was a motion by Council
member Scott and seconded by Councilmember Lhotka to close the public hearing on
the industrial revenue bond proposal from Medtronics, Inc. Voting in favor:
Mayor Nyquist, Councilmembers Fignar, Lhotka, and Scott. Voting against: none.
The motion passed unanimously.
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RESOLUTION NO. 79 -208
Member Celia Scott introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION RELATING TO THE AUTHORIZATION AND ISSUANCE OF REVENUE BONDS OF THE CITY
UNDER MINNESOTA STATUTES, CHAPTER 474, FOR THE PURPOSE OF FINANCING A PROJECT
THEREUNDER; AND AUTHORIZING AN APPLICATION BY THE CITY TO THE MINNESOTA COMMISSIONER
OF SECURITIES
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member
Bill Fignar, and upon vote being taken thereon, the following voted in favor thereof:
Dean Nyquist, Bill Fignar, Gene Lhotka, and Celia Scott; and the following voted
against the same: none, whereupon said resolution was declared duly passed and
adopted.
RECESS
The City Council recessed at 8:20 p.m. and reconvened at 8:35 p.m.
ORDINANCE ON DRUG RELATED DEVICES
Councilmember Lhotka referred to an ordinance recently passed by the City of Eagan
prohibiting the sale of drug related devices. Councilmember Fignar asked the
Chamber of Commerce representative present at the meeting, Jack Bell, if the Chamber
would be interested in reviewing the ordinance. Councilmember Lhotka inquired as to
whether or not the Council would have an interest in the ordinance, and stated that
he would like to have the City Attorney examine and review the ordinance. Mayor
Nyquist indicated that he would like to have the Chamber of Commerce review the
ordinance. Councilmember Fignar indicated that he would like to have input on the
ordinance from City staff. The City Attorney stated that, at this point he was
not sure whether or not the ordinance, as passed by the City of Eagan, would be
appealed. Councilmember Fignar requested that the City staff present its input
on the ordinance within 30 days. Councilmember Lhotka requested that the Chamber
of Commerce get a copy of the City of Eagan's ordinance to review.
ORDINANCE
Mayor Nyquist noted that an ordinance amending Chapter 35 regarding special require -
ments in I -1 and I -2 districts is related to two of the Planning Commission items
on the agenda and that it would be appropriate to discuss the ordinance in conjunc-
tion with the related Planning Commission items.
The Director of Planning and Inspection stated that two applications have been
submitted by Cass Screw Company, both of which were reviewed at the August 16, 1979
and August 30, 1979 Planning Commission meetings. He stated that in Application
No. 79052 the applicant seeks site and building plan approval for a 60' x 120'
addition on the east side of the existing building. He noted.that the addition
would be primarily for storage and would also add a new parking facility on the
east side of the building. The Director of Planning and Inspection pointed out
that the proposed addition would be in line with the current setback of 25 feet
off 47th Avenue North. He also noted that in Application No. 79053 submitted
by Cass Screw Company the applicant seeks a variance from the 100 foot buffer
requirement where I -2 zoned property abuts R -1 zoned property for the proposed
addition to the existing plant at 4748 France Avenue North.
The Director of Planning and Inspection referred Council members to page 11 of
the August 16, 1979 Planning Commission minutes which contained the contents of
a letter submitted by the applicant explaining his reasons for a variance request.
The Director of Planning and Inspection, noted that the reasons for the variance
as stated in the applicant's letter were as follows: 1. The building would not
be as efficient if the addition must be set back more than 25 feet. 2. The
addition will align with the existing building and both will be kept free of
openings. 3. The character of the neighborhood would not be changed. 4. There
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is ample separation between the apartments and Cass plant.
The Director of Planning and Inspection noted that the Planning Commission expressed
the concern over the outlots located on the north side of 47th Avenue and abutting
the Cass Screw property. He stated that the staff could not find any zoning classi-
fication for these outlots and because of that technicality the outlots are zoned
R -1, which requires a 100 foot setback and a landscaping buffer between the R -1
property and industrial property. He also noted that it seems � g
'here was an oversight
with regards to the outlot zoning which took place in 1968 during the Zoning Ordi-
nance revisions. He stated that the outlots were created not to act as a buffer
but rather to prohibit industrial access to 47th Avenue North and to control or
prohibit industrial traffic onto 47th Avenue North. The Director of Planning and
Inspection referred the Council members to page 5 of the minutes of the August 30,
1979 Planning Commission meeting where the Planning Commission requested the Council
to make the following findings concerning outlots 1 throuqh 7 of Ryan Lake Terrace
Addition: 1. That the R -1 zoning of outlots 1 through 7, Ryan Lake Terrace Addition
is unintentional. 2. That the intent of the outlots is to limit, or prevent, access
from the industrially zoned property onto 47th Avenue North. 3. That for setback
purposes, the outlots should be considered to be what they would be used for under
normal circumstances, namely, public right -of -way.
The Director of Planning and Inspection stated that even if the outlots were not
zoned R -1, it would still require a 50 foot setback. He noted that the applicant's
request for an additional variance in this instance is not appropriate. He pointed
out that R -1, R -2, and R -3 zones are generally considered single family while the R -4
through R -7 zones are generally considered multiple family. He also noted that there
is a 100 foot buffer requirement in the current ordinance when R -1 thorugh R -3 zoned
property abuts industrial property at a property line, and in cases where R -4 through
R -7 zoned property abuts industrial property, only a 10 foot setback is required.
He also pointed out that if a street lies between the industrial property and the R -4
through R -7 zones, then a 50 foot building setback and buffer strip is required of
the industrial property from the street line. The Director of Planning and Inspec-
tion noted that the Planning Commission did not consider it appropriate to require
no buffer where R -4 through R -7 zones abut industrial property at a property line
and to require a 50 foot setback where R -4 through,R -7 zones are separated from the
industrial property by a street. The Director of Planning and Inspection stated
that the ordinance amending Chapter 35 regarding special requirements in I -1 and
I -2 districts would require a protective building setback and restricted buffer
strip not less than 50 feet in width where I -1 or I -2 abuts R -4; R -5, R -6, or R -7
at a property line. He added that where I -1 or I -2 abuts R -4, R -5, R -6, or R -7 at
a public street line, the protective bufffer strip would be no less than 25 feet
in width.
The Director of Planning and Inspection pointed out existing situations in the City
where residential property abuts industrial property and also indicated how these
existing situations would relate to the proposed ordinance amendment. He noted
that in the industrial area west of Humboldt Avenue the 50 foot setback requirement
in the proposed ordinance amendment would create few problems. He pointed out that
only one property, that being Arctic Metals, has a setback of less than 50 feet
and all the other industrial properties in the area have a 50 foot or greater
setback. He also pointed out that the proposed ordinance amendment would permit
parking in the buffer strip where I -1 or I -2 abuts R -4 through R -7 at a property
line provided it does not extend to within 15 feet of the property line. He
noted that the Spec 2 building does not conform to this parking requirement.
The Director of Planning and Inspection indicated that the Planning Commission
felt that the creation of the two nonconforming situations with the adoption of
of the proposed ordinance amendment, those being Arctic Metals and the Spec 2
building, were acceptable.
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I
Cwmcilmember Lhotka asked whether the consideration of the outlots as public
right-of-way would present any problems to the City. The Director of Planning
aul Inspection stated that the outlots cannot be built on and would be interpreted
right -of -way for setback purposes only. The City Attorney stated that a starting
paint is needed for measuring setbacks. He noted that for purposes of measuring
setbacks we need a starting point and that this is no reflection on the private
p=perty nature of the outlots. The Director of Planning and Inspection stated that
t outlots would be the buffer along 47th Avenue North. He indicated that the
Panning Commission felt that the requirement of a 50 foot buffer where I -1 or I -2
amts R -4, R -5, R -6, or R -7 at a public street line was excessive and that a 25
foot buffer strip would be more practical.
Mare was a motion by Councilmember Fignar and seconded by Councilmember Scott to
offer for first reading an ordinance amending Chapter 35 regarding special require -
nents in I -1 and I -2 districts. Voting in favor: Mayor Nyquist, Councilmembers
gnar, Lhotka, and Scott. Voting against: none. The motion passed unanimously.
INNING COMMISSION ITEMS
The City Manager introduced Application No. 79049 submitted by Darrell Farr Develop-
ment Corporation. He noted that the applicant seeks preliminary plan approval for
the creation of 122 units and one common area associated with the conversion of the
Beach Apartments to condominiums. He also noted that Application No. 79049 was
recommended for approval at the August 16, 1979 Planning Commission meeting. This
application was tabled at the August 27, 1979 City Council meeting and continued
to the September 10, 1979 City Council meeting.
Councilmember Lhotka asked if there was any way to control condominium conversions.
The City Attorney stated that converting to condominiums is a new phenomenon. He
pointed out that it is another way of owning property and that multiple ownership
is only a change in ownership, and that a Zoning Ordinance can only control such
things as configuration of buildings, and density. The City Attorney stated that
the City of Minneapolis has dropped its Comprehensive Ordinance controlling condo-
minium conversions because the efforts are probably not constitutional. He indicated
that the control of condominium conversion is an .important question especially since
apartment construction is not now economically feasible. He pointed out that
borrowing money at current interest rates to build apartments requires a rental
rate that is prohibitive.
Councilmember Lhotka asked whether or not it is possible to rent and sell in
combination with a condominium situation. The City Manager indicated that some
units are retained as rental units. Councilmember Lhotka asked how the taxes
are influenced in a condominium situation. The City Manager stated that the
units are taxed separately, in this case, 122 separate parcels. The Director of
Planning and Inspection stated that the City Assessor uses an income approach on
apartments, but when they are sold as condominium units, they have a market
value per unit. He stated that this would increase the taxes derived from condo -
miniums as compared with apartments.
Mayor Nyquist opened the meeting for the purpose of a public hearing on Application
No. 79049. There was no one to speak on the application. There was a motion by
Councilmember Scott and seconded by Councilmember Fignar to close the public hearing.
Voting in favor: Mayor Nyquist, Councilmembers Fignar, Lhotka, and Scott. Voting
against: none. The motion passed unanimously.
There was a motion by Councilmember Fignar and seconded by Councilmember Scott
to approve Planning Commission Application No. 79049 submitted by Darrell Farr
Development Corporation subject to.the following conditions:
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1. The final plat is subject to approval by the City Engineer.
2. The final plat is subject to the provisions of Chapter 15 of
the City Ordinances.
3. The (declaration) and other disclosure materials are subject to
the review and approval of the City Attorney prior to final
plat approval.
4. The statement concerning the structural, mechanical, electrical
and plumbing condition of the buildings and each unit is subject
to the approval of the Building Official.
5. The City's Housing and Maintenance Ordinance shall apply to all
buildings and any affected units so long as there are rental
units remaining in the complex.
6. An as built survey of the property certified by a registered
architect shall be submitted prior to approval of final plat.
i
Voting in favor: Mayor Nyquist, Councilmembers Fignar, Lhotka, and Scott. Voting
against: none. The motion passed unanimously. Y
Mayor Nyquist opened the meeting for the purpose of a public hearing on Applica-
tion No. 79053 submitted by Cass Screw, Inc. There was no one to speak on the
application. There was a motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Council -
member Fignar to close the public hearing. Voting in favor: Mayor Nyquist,
Councilmembers Fignar,. Lhotka, and Scott. Voting against: none. The motion
passed unanimously.
There was a motion by Councilmember Lhotka and seconded by Councilmember Scott
to deny Application No. 79053 submitted by Cass Screw, Inc. for a request for
a variance from Section 35 -413 regarding buffer requirements on the grounds
that the standards for a variance contained in the Zoning Ordinance are not met.
Voting in favor: Mayor Nyquist, Councilmembers Fignar, Lhotka, and Scott. Voting
against: none. The motion passed unanimously.
There was a motion by Councilmember Lhotka and seconded by Councilmember Fignar to
approve Planning Commission Application No. 79052 submitted by Cass Screw for site
and building plan approval subject to the following conditions:
1. Building plans are subject to review and approval by the
Building Official with respect to applicable codes prior
to the issuance of permits.
2. Grading, drainage and utility plans are subject to review
and approval by the City Engineer prior to the issuance of
permits. The holding pond indicated on the plans for the
southwest corner of the site will be modified or eliminated
subject to the review and approval of the City Engineer.
3. A performance agreement and supporting financial guarantee
(in an amount to be determined by the City Manager) shall
be submitted to assure completion of approved site improve-
ments.
4. The building shall be equipped with an automatic fire
extinguishing system to meet NFPA Standard No. 13 and
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shall be connected to a central monitoring device in
accordance with Chapter S of the City Ordinances.
5. All outside trash disposal and /or rooftop mechanical
equipment shall be appropriately screened from view.
6. B -612 curb and gutter shall be provided around all
driving and parking areas.
7. An underground irrigation system shall be provided in
all landscaped areas to facilitate site maintenance.
Irrigation and sodding shall be provided along the east
portion of the site and the trees similar to those along
France Avenue shall be continued along 48th Avenue North.
8. The 8 foot high fence indicated along the south edge of
the parking lot shall be extended to the east property line.
9. Plan approval is contingent upon the adoption of an ordinance
amendment regarding buffers between industrial and multiple
residential districts. Building permits will not be issued
until that amendment is effective.
Voting in favor: Mayor Nyquist, Councilmembers Fignar, Lhotka, and Scott. Voting
against: none. The motion passed unanimously.
There was a motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Councilmember Fignar to
make the following findings:
1. That the zoning of outlots 1 through 7, Ryan Lake Terrace
Addition is unintentional.
2. That the intent of the outlots is to limit or prevent access
from the industrially zoned property onto 47th Avenue North.
3. That for setback purposes the outlots should be considered to
be what they would be used for under normal circumstances,
namely, public right -of -way.
Voting in favor: Mayor Nyquist, Councilmembers Fignar, Lhotka, and Scott. Voting
against: none. The motion passed unanimously.
NORTHWEST HENNEPIN HUMAN SERVICES COUNCIL FOR A STRUCTURE OF A COMMUNITY ACTION
AGENCY FOR SUBURBAN AND RURAL HENNEPIN COUNTY
Mayor Nyquist introduced Eileen Moran, who serves as the Director of the Northwest
Hennepin Human Services Council. Ms. Moran stated that the community action agency
would serve as a conduit to the poor and meet needs that are not met by welfare
type programs. She also stated that marginally poor people who do not qualify for
welfare agency programs can benefit through a community action agency. Ms. Moran
stated that the community action agency will increase the capacity of existing
agencies and will also increase the disbursement of federal funds. She also
indicated that the City of Brooklyn Center is not committed to any program by
passing the resolution supporting the development of a community action agency for
suburban and rural Hennepin County.
Councilmember Lhotka asked how Brooklyn Center will participate. Ms. Moran stated
that the residents of Brooklyn Center will be able to participate in the community
action agency, however, if Brooklyn Center opts out of the program, they will not
be able to participate. She also stated that only five areas of Minnesota do not
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now have community action agencies and that northwestern Hennepin County is one
of these areas. She also indicated that the chances of federal funding for a
community action agency appears likely. Councilmember Fignar asked Ms. Moran
` what the amount of federal funding would be. Ms. Moran indicated that the
funding is based on a per capita formula and about $200,000 per year would be
allocated for northwest Hennepin County. Councilmember Fignar asked Ms. Moran
what the allowable administrative costs would be. She indicated that the admini-
strative costs of the program were set at a maximum of 100. Councilmember Lhotka
asked what commitment the City might have to the program. The City Manager
explained that there is no financial commitment now since the community action
agency program is funded completely by federal funds, however, the guarantee of
future federal funds is not a certainty. Mayor Nyquist stated that the County
can organize the community action agency without the City's approval. Ms. Moran
stated that by not passing the resolution supporting the development of a com-
munity action agency for suburban and rural Hennepin County, this does not prohibit
people from participating. Councilmember Lhotka asked Ms. Moran what activities
the community action agency would be involved in. Ms. Moran stated that the
community action agency is not a referral program, it is an outreach and advocacy
program for the poor.
RESOLUTION NO. 79 -209
Member Celia Scott introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption:
RESOLUTION SUPPORTING THE DEVELOPMENT OF A CAA FOR SUBURBAN AND RURAL HENNEPIN
COUNTY
The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by
member_ Gene Lhotka, and upon vote being taken thereon, the following voted in
favor thereof: Bill Fignar, Gene Lhotka, and Celia Scott; and the following
voted against the same: Dean Nyquist, whereupon said resolution was declared
duly passed and adopted.
SOLID WASTE REPRESENTATIVE
The City Manager stated that the Department of Environment and Energy of Hennepin
County required that a solid waste representative be designated for the City of
Brooklyn Center as a contact person between the City and the Department of Environ-
ment and Energy. He explained that this contact person may be the City Manager or
his designee and in this case he indicated that either Sy Knapp, the Director of
Public Works or Tom Heenan, the City Sanitarian would be appointed to this position.
There was a motion by Councilmember Scott and seconded by Councilmember Fignar to
approve the appointment of a solid waste representative as designated by the City
Manager. Voting in favor: Mayor Nyquist, Councilmembers Fignar, Lhotka, and Scott.
Voting against: none. The motion passed unanimously.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Councilmember Lhotka and seconded by Councilmember Fignar to adjourn the
meeting. Voting in favor: Mayor Nyquist, Councilmembers Fignar, Lhotka, and
Scott. Voting against: none. The motion passed unanimously. The Brooklyn Center
City Council adjourned at 10:10 p.m.
Clerk f s yo
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