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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1977 07-13 CCM Special 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 SPECIAL SESSION JULY 13, 1977 CITY HALL Call to Order The Brooklyn Center City Council met in special session and was called to order by Mayor Philip Cohen at 7 :30 p.m. oll Call Mayor Cohen, Councilmen Britts, Kuefler, Fignar, and Lhotka. Also present were Director of Public Works James Merila , Director of Planning and Inspection Blair Tremere, City Assessor Peter Koole, Assistant City Engineer Dennis Brown and Administrative Assistants Brad Hoffman, Mary Harty, and Ronald Warren. Consideration of Mayor Cohen announced that this special session of the Stadium Proposal City Council was called in response to Brooklyn Center Industrial Park, Inc.'s June 27, 1977 letter requesting that the Council consider their proposal for a sports stadium. He explained that by statute the City Council of the city in which a stadium proposal is located must lend its support to the proposed facility by July 15, 1977 for the Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission to give further consideration to that proposal. He further stated that the Sports Facilities Commission will by August 1, 1977 determine three sites for final consideration as to the location of a new major sports facility. Mayor Cohen next reviewed the procedures to be utilized for this evening's meeting explaining that representatives of B.C.I.P. will present their proposal to the City Council; the City Council will then have an opportunity to question representatives of B.C.I.P.; the meeting will then be opened for public opinion and comments; and following the public input the Council will deliberate the matter. Councilman Lhotka inquired if the decision arrived at by the City Council at this evening's meeting is absolutely binding or if the Council would be allowed further input if the B.C.I.P. proposal becomes one of the three final sites. 7"he Director of Public Works responded that the Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission basically wants the City Council to consider and comment on five basic criteria which include the following: 1 . A statement by the local governmental unit of general support for the facility or facilities and its location; 2. A statement of the local governmental unit's willingness to allocate public utility capacity to the facility; 3. A commitment from the City, County and State as appropri- ate to make necessary public improvements to serve the proposed location; 4. Any contributions which will be made by the local governmental unit and; 5. A commitment that official controls will be amended if necessary to accommodate the proposal if it is ultimately selected by the Commission. Mayor Cohen responded that a resolution to this effect must be presented to the secretary of the Sports Facilities Com- mission by July 15, 1977. -1 7 -13-77 Roger Newstrum, President of Brooklyn Center Industrial B. C. I. P. Stadium Park, Inc. introduced Mr. Deil Gustafson, Chairman of Proposal the Board of Brooklyn Center Industrial Park, Inc. and Mr. Wayne Belisle, attorney for B. C. 1. P. He explained that Mr. Gustafson would present the stadium proposal to the City Council and that Mr. Belisle was present to comment relative to various legal aspects involving the proposal. Mr. Newstrum distributed a booklet relating to B. C. I. P.'s stadium proposal .to the City Council for their review. Mr. Gustafson then proceeded to review B. C. I. P.'s stadium proposal. He requested Mr. Belisle to comment, for clarification purposes, regarding the five criteria previously mentioned for local government consideration. Mr. Belisle stated that he has been present at a number of City ouncil considerations of stadium proposals and that Y P p he feels it is quite clear that a number of communities, because of a lack of information, could not make definite commitments. He added that it is also his opinion that City Councils could rescind their authorization at a later date based on information that may be developed which would show a particular stadium site to be detrimental to the community. Mr. Belisle stated that although B C. I. P.'s proposal was developed somewhat late he feels it has an excellent chance of being one of the three final sites chosen by the Sports Facilities Commis- sion. He explained that if the Council determines at a later date that the sports facility is a detriment to the community, the Council's support could be rescinded, thus having the effect of only two sites being considered by the Commission, Mr. Gustafson then proceeded to review, with the assistance of a slide presentation, the major strong points of a Brooklyn Center stadium site. He stated that Brooklyn Center has the capability of three major arterials that can bring traffic to the stadium site. He explained that with the completion of FI -94, that freeway along with FI -694 and T. H. 100 could carry traffic in and out of Brooklyn Center more than adequately. He added that freeway access to the stadium site is much better than the access of other proposals currently under consideration. Mr. Gustafson reported that the stadium site itself is a 40 acre site which would contain parking for approxi- mately 3 ,100 cars and that an additional 14 acre site, in the vicinity of Shingle Creek Parkway and 69th Avenue North, would also be utilized for parking and could accommodate up to 1,300 cars . He pointed out that a number of the parking lots in the Industrial Park could also be utilized for parking purposes, because, in all likelihood, they would not be used during the time sporting events are in progress. He stated that there is more than adequate parking, on site and in adjacent areas, for the facility. He further stated that the natural buffering and berming around the Industrial Park would provide a substantial buffer between the stadium site and adjacent residential areas, Councilman Lhotka left the table at 7:50 p.m. 7 -13 -77 -2- Mr. Gustafson reported that the Brooklyn Center site is the last chance the North Hennepin County area will have for acquiring a stadium. He explained that the site is the largest available site with adequate parking available. He pointed out that the location of the MTC garage, which is adjacent to the stadium site, is of benefit to the proposal in that it is estimated that there will be a need for parking approximately 175 buses during stadium events which could be accommodated by the garage. He commented that the MTC garage, the existing and proposed highways, freeways, and feeder roads, the availability of adequate parking and the fact that there will be no demolition involved on the proposed site all seem to make this site the only site in the north area that could be seriously considered. He reported that B. C. I. P. has had preliminary discussions with the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MN /DOT) regarding the interchange plans at Shingle Creek Parkway and FI -94, and have been informed that it seems possible that additional freeway lanes could be provided to handle the increased traffic associated with the stadium. Mr. Gustafson next reported on the possible benefits to the community and the surrounding area if a stadium were located on the proposed site. Councilman Lhotka returned to the table at 7 :53 p.m. He stated that among other things the tax base would be increased which would mean more revenue to the City and that the stadium would bring more jobs into the area. Regarding the negative aspects of the stadium site, Mr. Gustafson stated that the increase in traffic would probably be the worst effect with an increase of about 15,000 cars for a particular event. He noted that presently 30,000 to 40,000 cars utilize Brooklyn Center's arterial roads daily and that in B. C. I. P.'s best judgment the additional stadium traffic would be no worse than the traffic associated with Brookdale Shopping Center and could be adequately handled. Following Mr. Gustafson's presentation, members of the City Council were given the opportunity to question him regarding B. C. I. P.'s stadium proposal. In response to an inquiry by Councilman Fignar Mr. Gustafson stated that approximately 2,800 already existing parking spaces could be available by utilizing business parking lots in the Industrial Park that are within close proximity to the proposed stadium site. Councilman Kuefler questioned Mr. Gustafson regarding what was anticipated as the major freeway access to the stadium site, noting that the present Xerxes Avenue ramp is proposed to be closed. He responded that the proposed Shingle Creek Parkway interchange and the proposed limited Humboldt Avenue/T.H. 100 interchange would probably be the most used access points. The Director of Public Works commented that Mr. Crawford of MN /DOT has said that the present interchanges would not be adequate to handle the traffic and would have to be modified. He added that Mr. Crawford had also said that this is something that is common to all the Proposed stadium sites. The Director of Public Works pointed out that the timing regarding the installation of these inter- changes is essential in that there is a good possibility that federal funds would not be available for modification to the projects once they have started. He stated that if no -3- 7 -13 -77 construction has begun on the freeway and interchanges and modifications for stadium ,needs can be done in conjunction with the already proposed" plans, there is a good possibility • that 90% federal /10% state funding could be utilized; if they cannot be done in conjunction other types of funding would have to be utilized. In response to an inquiry by Councilman Kuefler, the Director of Public Works explained that other roadways in the vicinity of the proposed stadium site, such as 69th Avenue North (County Road 130) would have to be upgraded to accommodate the anticipated stadium traffic. Further discussion ensued relative to the traffic, the - upgrading of roadways and proposed interchanges. Councilman Fignar stated that the timetable for the upgrading of the Shingle Creek Parkway interchange is such that it seems possible that it could be done at the time of stadium construction. Councilman Lhotka pointed - out that although the majority of traffic would utilize FI -694, FI -94, and T. H. 100 there would also be an increase of traffic on County Road 10, Brooklyn Boulevard, 69th Avenue North, Xerxes Avenue North, as well as other residential streets. Mayor Cohen next opened the meeting for purposes of Public Hearing public comment from persons in attendance and recognized Mr. Henry Dorff, 6400 Willow Lane. Mr. Dorff stated that Brooklyn Center is a community that is between 80 and 90% fully developed and has moved forward with a Comprehensive Plan calling for a balance between resi- dential, commercial and industrial development. He stated that although the community does not have much national notoriety, it is known locally as being a well planned community with a Council that is responsive to its citizens. He commented that during the previous discussion about the stadium site a number of things have been raised such as the need to upgrade 69th Avenue North and Shingle Creek Parkway, and also the possible loss of 90% federal funding for improvements to the proposed Shingle Creek Parkway interchange and the freeway. He questioned who would pay the bills for these projects He stated that the presentation has indicated that the stadium will provide many good things for the community such as jobs, further development around the stadium site and the possibility of an increase in our tax base He questioned the number of jobs the stadium would bring and also the types of jobs they would be and wondered if these jobs would be better for the com- munity as opposed to the jobs that might be brought in by another type of development. Mr. Dorff stated that there are a number of other considerations that the City Council must be aware of before it can make a decision on the desirability of having such a stadium in our community. He added that it is his opinion that the City Council has not had enough time or enough information, to make a rational decision regarding the commitment that would be required of this community, 7 -13 -77 -4- Mr. Dorff stated that he does not feel it is entirely true that the estimated 15,000 extra cars coming into Brooklyn Center for a stadium event would be no problem. He further stated that a stadium in Brooklyn Center would require the City to add additional police officers to handle the problems associ- ated with it, and inquired of the City Council if they were prepared to make such an addition. He added that there are a great number of considerations that should be taken into account prior to the City making the commitment that is being requested. He stated that for these reasons he does not favor the stadium proposal for Brooklyn Center. Mayor Cohen next recognized Mr. Patrick Horan, 7025 Drew Avenue North, who inquired about the size of the proposed facility and the number of parking spaces that would be required. Mayor Cohen responded that Mr. Gustafson would be given the opportunity to respond to various questions such as these once all people have been heard. Mayor Cohen then recognized Ann farvimaki, 5625 Aldrich Avenue North, who stated that she felt a stadium would do much for the area by bringing in various jobs. She added that she felt the stadium should be domed and that she has some concerns over the upgrading of 69th Avenue North and the potential environmental effects on the Palmer Lake area. Mr. Chatelle, 7006 Newton Avenue North, stated that he had a deep interest in the proposed site because he lives relatively close to it. He stated that his major concerns have to do with traffic and the additional costs for police services. He was not in favor of the stadium proposal. Mr. Carl Lundstrom, 5330 Camden Avenue North, stated that he did not feel the stadium would be of benefit to Brooklyn Center and that he preferred other types of develop - ment on the proposed site. Sophia Whitaker, 6934 Willow Lane, also spoke against the stadium proposal stating that she did not feel it would be of benefit to the community. Mr. DeSmith, 2701 - 65th Avenue North, was also not in favor of the stadium site stating that he felt traffic congestion problems would be tremendous and that the citizens of Brooklyn Center would have to absorb the costs of extra police officers that would be needed. He questioned whether or not the sewer and water systems were designed to take on the additional load that would be needed for such a development. Mr. Grones, 6215 Summit Drive, stated that he felt the stadium would be of benefit to Brooklyn Center and added that he finds it hard to believe that Brooklyn Center would not want the recognition that would come with having such a stadium. Ray Harold son, 1207 - 72nd Avenue North, stated that he was in favor of the stadium proposal and inquired as to the number of acres that the site would encompass. Mr. Gustafson responded that the stadium site itself would occupy approximately 40 acres and that an additional 14 acres in the vicinity of Shingle Creek Parkway and 69th Avenue North would be utilized for parking purposes. -5- 7 -13 -77 Mayor Cohen next recognized Mr. Jack Bell, a member of the Board of Directors of the Brooklyn Center Chamber of Commerce, who stated that the Chamber had approved the concept of a Brooklyn Center stadium location as being beneficial to the area. Mr. Bell explained that he is a former resident of Bloomington and explained that that community had benefited from the stadium and that they do not want to lose it. In response to an inquiry by Councilman Kuefler Mr. Bell stated that the Chamber of Commerce had not had a great deal of time to study the details of the project but that they think the recognition that would go along with having a stadium would be good for Brooklyn Center. John Kelly, 7124 West River Road, also a member of the Board of Directors of the Brooklyn Center Chamber of Commerce, stated that the City of Brooklyn Center has an opportunity that they should take advantage of. He explained that if the City does not support the stadium proposal all will be lost and there will be no other chance. He further stated that he felt the stadium would be of benefit to Brooklyn Center and requested the Council to give Mr. Gustafson the opportunity to pursue the stadium matter by giving its support to the proposal. Mr. Sabatke, 6306 Brooklyn Drive, stated that he was against the stadium proposal explaining that Brooklyn Center is a residential community and that the construction of a stadium in this area may well destroy that residential character. He added that the stadium would also put an extra burden on the City's park system, especially Palmer Lake and Central Parks with various tailgate parties and picnics He added that he felt parking would be a problem and it would spill over into residential areas. Mr. Theis, 3006 Thurber Road, stated that he felt the stadium would change the residential climate of the com- munity, but that it would be an asset to the business community. He explained that he lived relatively close to the proposed site and stated that if the stadium does come to Brooklyn Center he hoped the City Council would consider an admission tax to cover the cost of extra policing that would be required because of the stadium. He inquired if the stadium site would be taken off of the tax rolls if it were chosen. He added that he hoped ade- quate provisions would be taken by the City Council to insure that there would be enough on -site parking so that residential areas would not be used for that purpose. He further explained that he is a former resident of Richfield and relayed some of his experiences with traffic and parking problems associated with the present Bloomington stadium. Mayor Cohen again recognized Mr. Henry Dorff, 6400 Willow Lane, who stated that there is a real possibility that a Brooklyn Center stadium would mean increased taxes along with a number of other undesirable effects, and added that these things seem to outweigh the stated benef its Mayor Cohen again recognized Mr. Carl Lundstrom, 5330 Camden Avenue North, who asked why this matter had not been brought to a vote of the citizens. He stated that he was sure such an action would bring a negative response. i 7 -13 -77 -6- Mayor Cohen again recognized Mr. Sabatke, 6306 Brooklyn Drive, who inquired if an environmental impact statement would have to be done regarding this site Mayor Cohen responded that such a statement is required but would only be done for the three sites in final consideration. Recess The Brooklyn Center City Council recessed at 8 :53 p.m. and resumed at 9:09 p.m. Mayor Cohen expressed his appreciation to persons in attendance for expressing their opinions. He then asked Mr. Gustafson to respond to the questions that had been raised during the public hearing. Mr. Gustafson requested that Mr. Belisle first address a number of legal points that had been raised. Mr. Belisle stated that the law provides that after the three final stadium sites are chosen there will be approximately 18 months within which time environ- mental impact statements and studies would be conducted. He pointed out that according to Section 4, Subdivision 8 of the Stadium Bill, the Sports Facilities Commission may employ persons or firms for the purpose of providing traffic officers to direct traffic on property under the control of the Commission and on City streets in the general area of the property controlled by the Commission. He explained that this provision seems to indicate there will not be a need for additional police officers. He stated that the time limits imposed by the law are a burden to B. C. I. P. as well as to the City and noted that the law did not go into effect until May of this year which gives him the impression that it was not the Legislature's intent that local governments would have to be greatly involved. He added that because local assessments are allowed and there are provisions in the law for supplying traffic officers, that he feels the law was written in such a way as not to be a burden on municipali- ties. Mr. Belisle reported that all of the other City Councils that have reviewed stadium proposals, with the exception of the City of St. Paul, have supported them. He stated that he felt these City Councils would not have done so if the burden on the municipalities was great. He further stated that the St. Paul City Council could really not have supported the proposal presented because it was not a feasible proposal due to its heavy reliance on mass transportation and the lack of parking alternatives. Mayor Cohen responded that other municipalities have been well aware of the proposals in their community for quite sometime, while the Brooklyn Center City Council was not informed until June 27 when B. C. I. P.'s request for review was received. He stated that it has never been Brooklyn Center's policy to support things because other communities do but rather to have adequate information on which to base its decisions. Councilman Lhotka stated that he had made two phone calls earlier this evening and had been informed that any decision made this evening was not legally binding and could be revoked. He further stated that he was also informed that any resolution endorsing the stadium proposal should be strongly worded for further consideration. i -7- 7 -13 -77 Mr. Gustafson stated he too believes that the Legislature did not intend that the location of a stadium site was to be a burden to the municipality. He further stated that he , also felt that it was important that the municipality involved support the proposal because the Sports Facilities Commission does not plan to choose a site where they are not wanted. He pointed out that it had been alluded to earlier this evening that this is a matter of reaping a big profit for B. C. I. P. He explained that it is not known whether this will be a profitable venture for B. C. I. P. and added that it may well be more profitable to develop the property in other ways He further commented that if the City Council does not support this proposal we will have lost a great oppor- tunity that would benefit not only Brooklyn Center but the entire north suburban area. He stated that the public input presented this evening was beneficial for understanding citizens' concerns and that it would have been even more beneficial if opinions had also been expressed by persons living in other northern communities. Mr. Gustafson concluded by stating that this is a unique opportunity and that if the City Council lends its support to the proposal, he feels the Brooklyn Center stadium site has an excellent chance of being considered as one of the three final sites. A brief discussion ensued relative to parking for the stadium site with it being explained that approximately 7,200 parking spaces will be available, in addition to the potential for parking approximately 175 buses at the MTC garage. Mr. Belisle stated that this is the number of spaces that can be provided within the existing City ordinance and that if a variance could be obtained another 4, 000 spaces could be provided. He explained that at this time B. C. I. P. had no intention of seeking a variance. Further discussion ensued relative to the distance between residential areas and the proposed site. Mayor Cohen then requested the Director of Public Works to present the information prepared relative to the effects of the stadium on the City of Brooklyn Center. The Director of Public Works commented relative to the points raised by Mr. Belisle in which he indicated that the City would not have to add more police officers. He read Section 4, Subdivision 8 of the Stadium Bill and pointed out that the traffic officers that may be provided by the Commission shall not be peace officers and shall not have the authority to make arrests for violations of traffic regula- tions. He briefly reviewed a report supplied by the police department which had contacted the Bloomington police department regarding their manpower requirements due to the present stadium. He explained that currently Bloomington utilizes approximately 25 to 50 officers at the stadium depending on the circumstances. He pointed out that it is correct that the Sports Facilities Commission can- provide traffic control personnel, but they cannot provide police protection which would seem to be ultimately the responsibility of the City. 7 -13 -77 -8- i The Director of Public Works next reported that according to Section 12, Subdivision 1 of the Stadium Bill a local munici- pality could not levy an admission tax which could help to offset potential costs incurred. Mayor Cohen stated that special legislation would be required for a city to levy a special tax of this nature and expressed the opinion that he did not feel this would be likely. A brief discussion ensued relative to the provisionAn the Stadium Bill which provides the City of Bloomington with a special levy to offset their loss of revenue because they will no longer be able to levy an admission tax. The Director of Public Works reported that the major cost to the City if a stadium was erected in Brooklyn Center would be in police protection. He explained that the best information available indicates that about 29 officers would have to be added, which would double the present sworn personnel force, at an approximate cost of $30,000 per officer for salaries, benefits and equipment for a total increase in police protection costs of approximately $900,000 annually. The Director of Public Works next referred to potential tax revenues relative to the stadium proposal. He explained that if a stadium was constructed it is anticipated that surrounding areas would be developed as higher uses which would in turn bring in increased tax revenues. He reviewed a transparency showing the location of the parcels that could potentially be affected by the stadium. He explained that the stadium property and the parking lot site would be tax exempt properties. He stated that his calculations, which include increased values for adjacent property with the stadium would be approximately $41 million and without a stadium approximately $44.7 million, a difference of about $3.7 million in value. He further stated that in terms of tax revenue to the City this would amount to between $25,000 and $26,000 in lost revenue. He added that with a stadium it is estimated that Brooklyn Center Independent School District No. 286 would receive approximately $80,000 less in tax revenues. He explained that this $80,000 in school district revenue would not be as severe a loss as it might seem and would not have as great an effect on residents living in the school district because approximately 56% of the school district is comprised of commercial/ industrial property as opposed to residential property. Councilman Fignar commented that he felt faster development, which might more readily occur with the construction of a stadium, might be more beneficial than the slow development, or no development, that we are now experiencing. Mayor Cohen pointed out that any new development is subject to the Fiscal Disparities Law, with 40% of the increased revenue coming off the top and going into a metro pool and that every dollar returned is one less dollar in State aids Regarding sewer and water utility needs for a new stadium, the Director of Public Works stated that it appears that present facilities would be adequate. He added that there may be a problem with the lift station at 55th and Lyndale due to peak demands, but that this problem would in all likelihood be experienced regardless of the type of develop- ment in the Industrial Park. -9- 7 -13 -77 The Director of Public Works next referred to roadway construc- tion relative to the proposed site. He explained that Shingle Creek Parkway between Freeway Boulevard and 69th Avenue North would have to be completed regardless of the type of development. He explained that upgrading and modification to the Trunk Highway 169 interchange, the Shingle Creek Parkway interchange, and the Trunk Highway 152 interchange would have to be done and that Trunk Highway 169 north of FI -94 to 69th Avenue North would also need to be upgraded. In addition to these improvements, the Director of Public Works stated that there will also be traffic problems on County Road 10, Xerxes, and 63rd Avenue North and various traffic intrusion problems into residential areas during sporting events. He explained that it is also anticipated that there will be various parking problems north of 69th Avenue in that area of Newton and Oliver Avenues because of the close proximity and accessibility to the stadium site. Following the Director of Public Work's review a lengthy discussion ensued relative to the stadium proposal. Council - man Kuefler, referring to a tax delinquency report presented to the City Council recently, inquired of Mr. Gustafson regarding his intentions for paying the tax delinquencies on B. C. I. P. property. Mr. Gustafson responded that it is B. C. I. P.'s intention to pay the back taxes. Mr. Gustafson responding to the Director of Public Work's report regarding costs that may be incurred by the City due to the stadium, stated that the largest dollar amount seems to be the approximate $900,000 annually for police officers. He commented that the best information that he has received regarding the Stadium Bill Law indicates that the Sports Facilities Commission will participate by contracting for traffic officers. He added that he does not feel it was the intention of the Legislature to require municipalities to incur extra costs associated with the stadium. He felt that something could be worked out through legislative efforts. Mr. Gustafson also stated that he feel the total tax value of properties in the vicinity of the proposed stadium would be much higher than that quoted by the Director of Public Works. He referred to the Control Data office building located in Bloomington and alluded to the fact that this type of development may well come into Brooklyn Center because of the stadium which would bring a higher tax value to the property. Following further discussion there was a motion by Close Public Hearing Councilman Fignar and seconded by Councilman Lhotka to close the public hearing and to begin Council delibera- tion on the stadium proposal. Voting in favor: Mayor Cohen, Councilmen Britts, Kuefler, Fignar, and Lhotka. Voting against: none. The motion passed unanimously. Councilman Britts stated that it seems that the Legislature Council Deliberation has dropped a monkey on local government's back. He on Stadium Proposal commented that there seems to be different interpretations on different portions of the law which raises a number of uncertainties. He explained that there are too many unanswered questions such as the environmental impact of the stadium, the associated costs to the municipality, and if there are other alternative sources for meeting these costs other than property taxes. He further explained that it also seems that the answers to these questions won't be given until a stadium site is chosen as one of the three finalists. He further stated that there is no 7 -13 -77 -10- concrete research regarding traffic problems, freeway comple- tions, and ingress and egress to and from the stadium. He added that he is not criticizing anyone for not having these answers because he is well aware of the time limits involved, but pointed out that more time is really needed to address these concerns. He further stated that he is. somewhat inclined to say, give B C. I. P. a chance and make the necessary commitments, but that he is quite concerned about the binding status of such a commitment and whether or not the City could withdraw this commitment if things prove not to be favorable. Councilman Fignar expressed the opinion that all of the questions raised by Councilman Britts cannot be answered this evening, but that B. C. I. P. needs an answer at this time. He stated that he feels that the Sports Facilities Commission has to address these matters and that they have the ability to make these decisions. He added that he has faith enough in the Commission that if Brooklyn Center is not the right site in all respects it will not be one of the finalists. He pointed out that the opportunity to have the stadium in Brooklyn Center, with the resulting good effects on the north suburban area, is before us now and that we in all likelihood will not have a similar opportunity. He commented that the stadium would speed development of the area and the impact of good business is beneficial to the community. He added that he feels the potential benefits of this proposal outweigh the potential bad points and that he favors giving B. C. I. P. the support necessary so that they can proceed with their stadium proposal. He reported that he had prepared a resolution for the City Council's consideration that he would like to submit after members of the Council have expressed their opinions on the issue. Councilman Lhotka concurred with Councilman Britts that there are a great number of unanswered questions. He reported that he had attempted to get as much information on the issue as possible and had contacted a Bloomington official that conveyed to him that the main benefit derived from having such a facility is the state -wide and national recognition gained by the community. He further reported that he had been informed that having the stadium does seem to provide jobs, but they are not necessarily primary type jobs but rather second or part-time type jobs. He stated that the need for additional police officers and the related costs are a major concern to him in that it would be a major expenditure that the City Council would have to incur in the relatively near future. He further stated that fire protection expenditures would probably also have to be increased as was the case in Bloomington. He explained that he also had concerns relative to noise and air pollution as well as an increase in trash, litter, traffic and parking problems associated with the stadium and that he was unsure as to how the stadium concept would fit into the City's Comprehensive Plan and the required update of that plan. He concluded that there are too many unresolved or unknown problems associated with the issue. Councilman Kuefler congratulated Mr. Gustafson for thinking big and developing such a proposal. He stated that his survey of the community's attitude indicates that they by and large do not favor the proposal because there are so many uncertainties. He explained that a positive effect on the tax basis would be an area where our citizens could see a desirable effect but that nothing ha been presented that would indicate that this would happen. s -1 I - 7 -13 -77 Councilman Britts left the table at 11 :01" p.m. , f Councilman Kuefler further explained that he does not yet have ' enough irformation that would indicate that he should vote in a way other than what has been expressed to him by his constituents. He added, however, that he would like to see the Council take some type of action that would allow B. C. I. P. to continue their stadium proposal and still leave the Council with the option of revoking its support if it becomes apparent that the stadium will be detrimental to the community. Councilman Britts returned to the table at 11 :03 p.m. Mayor Cohen commented that the Council is faced with a real dilemma. He stated that this is the first time he could recall that the City Council was faced with such a major decision and such little time and sketchy information to make a decision. He too commended Mr. Gustafson and the Chamber of Commerce for their efforts. He commented relative to the five commitments, explained earlier in this evening's meeting, which a City Council must make by resolution for a site to be considered. He explained that he could give general support to the concept but that he has difficulty making the other commitments such as a willingness to allocate public utility capacity to the facility and to make necessary public improvements to serve the proposed site. He stated that the Council does not know what these commitments entail and that he, therefore, could not in good faith make such an unqualified commitment. Following further discussion Councilman Fignar moved, and at the request of the Mayor the clerk read, the following resolution: WHEREAS, the Earle Brown Farm Commercial and Industrial Park has submitted a 54 acre site to the Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission for consideration as the location for a new multipurpose sports facility; and - WHEREAS, the Municipal Sports Facilities Commission has requested indications from the municipalities involved in each proposed stadium location of its support for said proposed location and the extent of municipal participation in said location; and WHEREAS, the Brooklyn Center Chamber of Commerce has tentatively approved the concept of a Brooklyn Center stadium location; and WHEREAS, it appears to this Council to be in the best interests of the City of Brooklyn Center as well as the northern portion of the metropolitan area to support the proposed location of the sports facility on the Earle Brown Farm. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED: 1, The City Council of the City of Brooklyn Center hereby supports the proposal made by the developers of Earle Brown Farm Commercial and Industrial Park for locating a multipurpose sports facility north of Freeway Boulevard, west of Shingle Creek Parkway in Brooklyn Center. 2. The City Council will cooperate with the Commission in determining the site needs of the proposed facility and will allocate public utility capacity to the facility. 7 -13 -77 -12 3. The City Council will study the operating needs of the proposed facility and assess the impact of those needs on a community and will work with the Commission and its staff to determine the best ways in which to meet and finance the needs of the facility. 4. The City Council will review the impact of applicable local controls and ordinances as they may affect the construction and operation of the proposed facility and will coincide all reasonable requests to modify, amend, or eliminate such controls as may be detrimental to or interfere with the operation of said proposed facility, subject to the responsibilities of this Council to the general public's health, safety and welfare of the City of Brooklyn Center. Councilman Britts seconded the motion for discussion purposes. A lengthy discussion then ensued relative to Councilman Fignar's proposed resolution. Councilman Lhotka stated that he feels the resolution needs various modifications because he is not prepared at this time to give strong and explicit support to the proposal and to the commitments involved. Mayor Cohen stated that he could not support the resolution because it makes a number of points and makes certain statements that he is unsure of. He added that he has problems making commitments without all of the facts being presented for consideration. Councilman Fignar stated he felt the resolution was worded in such a way that if problems develop that are detrimental to the best interests of the City, that the support and commitment can be withdrawn. Mayor Cohen disagreed stating he felt that the resolution was not worded in such a way that the City could withdraw the commitments made. Further discussion ensued relative to the resolution with it being agreed that the resolution should be modified to express the feelings of the entire Council. Councilman Kuefler suggested substitute wording for points No. 1 and 2 of the resolution to which Councilman Fignar agreed. Motion by Councilman Fignar and seconded by Councilman Kuefler to amend the proposed resolution in the following manner: Strike the wording in point No. 1 and add, "the Brooklyn Center City Council urges the Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission to continue consideration of the Brooklyn. Center Industrial Park stadium proposal while the Brooklyn Center City Council proceeds to survey the total impact of the stadium on Brooklyn Center and the citizen attitude toward the stadium after the total impact is known (i.e. environment, economics, traffic, etc.)" and in point No. 2 add the word "reasonable" before the words "public utility capacity to the facility". A lengthy discussion ensued relative to the amendment. For purposes of clarification Mayor Cohen permitted Mr. Belisle to respond to an inquiry by Councilman Fignar regarding whether or not the proposed amendment would be detrimental to B. C. I. P.'s proposal. Mr. Belisle suggested that the Council consider deleting that portion of the amendment to No. 1 following the words "to survey the total impact of the stadium on Brooklyn Center" Further discussion ensued relative to the amendment. -13 7 -13 -77 Motion by Councilman Britts and seconded by Councilman Fignar to amend the Fignar /Kuefler amendment to point No. 1 of the proposed resolution by including only the words "the Brooklyn ' Center City Council urges the Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission to continue consideration of the Brooklyn Center Industrial Park, Inc. stadium proposal while the Brooklyn Center City Council proceeds to survey the total impact of the stadium on Brooklyn Center' Voting in favor: Mayor Cohen, Councilmen Britts, Fignar, and Lhotka. Voting against: Councilman Kuefler. The amendment passed. A vote on the amended Fignar /Kuefler amendment was then taken. Voting in favor: Mayor Cohen, Councilmen Britts, Kuefler, Fignar, and Lhotka, Voting against: none. The amendment passed unanimously. Mayor Cohen passed the gavel to Councilman Britts at 12:02 p.m. Motion by Mayor Cohen and seconded by Councilman Lhotka to amend the proposed resolution by deleting the fourth whereas and adding "whereas, the Brooklyn Center City Council desires to pursue the merits of the proposal as it affects Brooklyn Center as well as the rest of the north suburban area". Voting in favor: Mayor Cohen, Councilmen Britts, Kuefler, and Lhotka. Voting against: Councilman Fignar. The amendment passed. Motion by Mayor Cohen and seconded by Councilman Lhotka to amend the proposed resolution by deleting point No. 2 and adding "the Brooklyn Center City Council will cooperate with the Metropolitan Sports Facilities Commission in determining the site needs of the proposed facility and will review the public utility capacity needs". Voting in favor: Mayor Cohen., Councilmen Britts and Kuefler. Voting against: Councilmen Fignar and Lhotka. The amendment passed. Motion by Councilman Kuefler and seconded by Mayor Cohen to amend the proposed resolution by deleting the word "coincide" in point No. 4 and substituting the word "consider ". Voting in favor: Mayor Cohen, Councilmen Britts, Kuefler, Fignar, and Lhotka. Voting against: none. The motion passed unanimously. Councilman Britts passed the gavel back to Mayor Cohen at 12:15 a.m. A brief discussion ensued relative to the provisions of the amended resolution. Member Bill Fignar introduced the following resolution and RESOLUTION NO. moved its adoption: NO. 77 -141 RESOLUTION URGING THE METROPOLITAN SPORTS FACILITIES COMMISSION TO CONTINUE CONSIDERATION OF THE BROOKLYN CENTER INDUSTRIAL PARK, INC. STADIUM PROPOSAL The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by member Maurice Britts, and upon vote being taken thereon, the following voted in favor thereof: Mayor Cohen, Councilmen Britts, Kuefler, Fignar, and Lhotka, and the following voted against the same: none, whereupon said 'N resolution was declared duly passed and adopted. 7 -13 -77 -14- Adjournment Motion by Councilman Fignar and seconded by Councilman Britts to adjourn the meeting. Voting in favor: Mayor Cohen, Councilmen Britts, Kuefler, Fignar, and Lhotka. Voting against: none. The motion passed unanimously. The Brooklyn Center City Council adjourned at 12 :16 a.m. I t N _ C IVrk 4 1 11 Mayor -15- 7 -13 -77