HomeMy WebLinkAbout2011 05-09 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
REGULAR SESSION
MAY 9, 2011
CITY HALL — COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1. INFORMAL OPEN FORUM WITH CITY COUNCIL
CALL TO ORDER INFORMAL OPEN FORUM
The Brooklyn Center City Council met in Informal Open Forum called to order by Mayor Tim
Willson at 6:45 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Mayor Tim Willson and Councilmembers Carol Kleven, Kay Lasman, Tim Roche, and Dan
Ryan. Also present were City Manager Curt Boganey, Public Works Director /City Engineer
Steve Lillehaug, Director of Business and Development Gary Eitel, Assistant City
Manager /Director of Building and Community Standards Vickie Schleuning, City Attorney
Charlie LeFevere, and Carla Wirth, TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
Mayor Tim Willson opened the meeting for the purpose of Informal Open Forum.
Gary Piekarczyk, 5842 Upton Avenue N., advised of the number of trees taken down for the
Shingle Creek Restoration Project and frustration that it has destroyed his view because he can
now see Shingle Creek Parkway, Pep Boys, and large neon signs late into the night. He asked
the Council to consider a 10 -foot buffer, similar to the restoration project at Tessman Park in
Brooklyn Park.
Mary Saugestad, 5912 Upton Avenue N., stated residents and staff came to a reasonable
agreement for a buffer, but she remained concerned with the high number of trees removed. She
urged more focus on the tree buffer, noting they can now see equipment cleaning the parking lot
and emptying dumpsters in the middle of the night and trail pedestrians can clearly see into their
windows. Ms. Saugestad expressed her appreciation to the City for working with residents to
address their concerns.
Roger Kloster, 7223 Lee Avenue N., commented on Brooklyn Center Birthday Party events he
had attended and the foresight years ago to preserve the Earle Brown Farm buildings. He stated
the Council is now considering whether to bulldoze Brookdale Mall and asked if the conditions
that resulted in the Mall's failure have been adequately addressed to assure the success of
Shingle Creek Crossing.
05/09/11 -1-
Stephen Tekautz, 6030 Vincent Avenue N, representing Brooklyn Center American Little
League, reported on their programming and expressed interest in merging their programs with
the City's recreational program.
Mayor Willson asked whether the Little League still benefitted from parent coaching and
volunteer involvement. Mr. Tekautz answered in the affirmative and explained he would like to
expand programming to include baseball, girls softball, and maybe a fall league.
Councilmember Lasman moved and Councilmember Roche seconded to close the Informal Open
Forum at 7:01 p.m.
Motion passed unanimously.
2. INVOCATION
As an Invocation, Mayor Willson requested a moment of silence and personal reflection of those
who lost their lives on 9/11/01 and the ultimate justice served this past week.
3. CALL TO ORDER REGULAR BUSINESS MEETING
The Brooklyn Center City Council met in Regular Session called to order by Mayor Tim Willson
at 7:02 p.m.
4. ROLL CALL
Mayor Tim Willson and Councilmembers Carol Kleven, Kay Lasman, Tim Roche, and Dan
Ryan. Also present were City Manager Curt Boganey, Director of Fiscal and Support Services
Dan Jordet, Public Works Director /City Engineer Steve Lillehaug, Director of Business and
Development Gary Eitel, Assistant City Manager /Director of Building and Community
Standards Vickie Schleuning, Police Chief Kevin Benner, Fire Chief Lee Gatlin, City Attorney
Charlie LeFevere, and Carla Wirth, TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
5. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
6. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA
Councilmember Lasman moved and Councilmember Kleven seconded to approve the Agenda
and Consent Agenda, as amended to add item 7b, Mayor's Proclamation, and the following
consent items were approved:
6a. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. April 25, 2011 — Study Session
2. April 25, 2011 — Regular Session
3. April 25, 2011 — Work Session
05/09/11 -2-
6b. LICENSES
TEMPORARY FIREWORKS
TNT Fireworks (Cub Location) 3245 County Road 10
MECHANICAL
Associated Mechanical 1257 Marschall Road, Shakopee
Bonfe's Plumbing & Heating Service 505 Randolph Avenue, St. Paul
Home Comfort Cooling & Heating 8111 151 Lane NW, Ramsey
Louis Degidio, Inc. 21033 Heron Way, Lakeville
MOTOR VEHICLE DEALERSHIP
Brookdale Honda 6801 Brooklyn Boulevard
Brookdale Metro Mitsubishi 7231 Brooklyn Boulevard
Cars with Heart 6121 Brooklyn Boulevard
Luther Brookdale Buick GMC 4301 68 Avenue N.
Luther Brookdale Chevrolet 6701 Brooklyn Boulevard
RENTAL — CURRENT RENTAL STANDARDS
INITIAL (TYPE II — two-year license)
5930 Aldrich Avenue N. Lori Stevenson
5420 Emerson Avenue N. Christopher Raisch
RENEWAL (TYPE III —one-year license)
Sterling Square Apartments
6700 Humboldt Avenue N. John Roder
RENEWAL (TYPE II —two-year license)
6819 Humboldt Avenue N. — A302 Raymond Charest
5924 June Avenue N. Tou Vue
RENEWAL (TYPE I — three-year license)
1207 65 Avenue N. Tech Ung
5707 Emerson Avenue N. Lois Frost
6819 Humboldt Avenue N. — A303 Raymond Charest
6324 Indiana Avenue N. Househelpers, Inc.
SIGNHANGER
Sign Source 7660 Quattro Drive, Chanhassen
6c. RESOLUTION NO. 2011 -72 AMENDING THE CITY COUNCIL CODE
OF POLICIES; ADDING POLICY FOR IN- STREET PEDESTRIAN
CROSSING SIGN
05/09/11 -3-
6d. RESOLUTION NO. 2011 -73 APPROVING CONTRACT FOR LAW
ENFORCEMENT LABOR SERVICES (LELS) LOCAL 82 AND THE
CITY OF BROOKLYN CENTER FOR THE CALENDAR YEAR 2011
6e. RESOLUTION NO. 2011 -74 AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A
CONSTRUCTION AGREEMENT BETWEEN XCEL ENERGY AND THE
CITY OF BROOKLYN CENTER FOR STREET LIGHTING FACILITIES
Motion passed unanimously.
7. PRESENTATIONS/ PROCLAMATIONS /RECOGNITIONS/DONATIONS
7a. NORTHWEST HENNEPIN HUMAN SERVICES COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT
Susan Blood, Executive Director of the Northwest Hennepin Human Services Council (NHHSC)
presented its 2010 annual report. She noted that Brooklyn Center's contribution was $12,182 in
2010 and a total of $73,516 in emergency services, financial assistance, and community program
materials was received by its residents. Ms. Blood thanked City Manager Curt Boganey for his
service on their Board and Finance Committee and Brooklyn Center resident Barb Jensen for her
service on the Senior Leadership Committee.
Anita Perkins, NHHSC, reported on services provided by the CEAP Program including $17,740
in emergency money and 154 fuel cards. She advised their website is updated each week with
pertinent information.
Choua Yang, NHHSC Program Events Coordinator, explained how they track recipients who
receive services and described her involvement with the City and coordination of an upcoming
Centennial event.
Barb Jensen, NHHSC Senior Committee, described the services provided and their goal to
enhance the quality of life for the growing and diverse senior population. She advised of the
vacancy that is yet to be filled by a Brooklyn Center resident.
Sharon Kephart, Brooklyn Center representative on NHHSC Advisory Commission, thanked the
Council for the opportunity to serve her community and indicated she has enjoyed representing
the City and looking for ways to maximize benefits to address human service needs. She noted
the NHHSC is an important avenue to leverage contributions of neighboring communities and it
has demonstrated the ability to respond to changing needs.
The Council discussed its support for the NHHSC and suggested Ms. Blood consider fostering a
business relationship to raise awareness of the number of employees available in Brooklyn
Center. Ms. Blood announced the upcoming round table discussion that NHHSC will host to
address that issue as well as minority owned businesses. The Council thanked NHHSC's staff
and its City representatives for their hard work to address resident's needs.
Councilmember Kleven moved and Councilmember Ryan seconded to accept the 2010 Annual
05/09/11 -4-
report of the Northwest Hennepin Human Services Council.
Motion passed unanimously.
7b. MAYOR'S PROCLAMATION DESIGNATING A DAY OF SPIRITUAL
REDEDICATION IN BROOKLYN CENTER
Mayor Willson read in full a proclamation designating Saturday, May 7, 2011, as a day of
spiritual rededication in Brooklyn Center.
Councilmember Lasman moved and Councilmember Ryan seconded to approve
PROCLAMATION Designating Saturday, May 7, 2011, as a day of spiritual rededication in
Brooklyn Center
Motion passed unanimously.
8. PUBLIC HEARINGS
- None.
9. PLANNING COMMISSION ITEMS
- None.
10. COUNCIL CONSIDERATION ITEMS
10a. CONSIDERATION OF TYPE IV 6 -MONTH PROVISIONAL RENTAL LICENSE
FOR 5715 EMERSON AVENUE NORTH
Assistant City Manager /Director of Building and Community Standards Vickie Schleuning
advised that 5715 Emerson Avenue N. was inspected and 16 property code violations were cited
and ultimately corrected. There have been no validated police incidents /nuisance calls within the
last 12 months. This property qualifies for a Type IV six -month provisional rental license based
on the number of property code violations found during the initial rental license inspection. The
property owner is also required to submit a mitigation plan and report monthly on the progress of
that plan. Staff has reviewed that mitigation plan and held discussion with the property owner
and recommends approval based on meeting standards in the mitigation plan.
Mayor Willson expressed his trepidation to consider approval of this rental license due to the
length of time taken by the property owner to address code violations and complete the licensing
process.
Councilmember Ryan moved and Councilmember Lasman seconded to open the hearing.
Motion passed unanimously.
05/09/11 -5-
My Lam, property manager of 5715 Emerson Avenue N, stated the previous tenant had a lot of
traffic and has now moved out. The new tenants have clean rental and criminal histories and
both are employed. He reported on the improvements made to the rental unit to improve the
quality of the property.
Mayor Willson emphasized that the City holds property managers and owners responsible for
rental properties, keeping the properties up to Code, and crime free. He stated it is good to hear
the property owner and manager are pursuing compliance and in attendance tonight to address
this application.
Councilmember Roche concurred and noted that owners of rental property are responsible to be a
good neighbor including lawn and planting maintenance. He asked Mr. Lam if he can assure the
Council that the property will be maintained to Code standards and not lapse into
noncompliance. Mr. Lam stated the property owner took the first step by not renewing the
tenant's lease and improved its tenant base. They will now address anything else the City wants
them to fix or improve.
Councilmember Lasman moved and Councilmember Ryan seconded to close the hearing.
Motion passed unanimously.
Councilmember Ryan moved and Councilmember Kleven seconded to approve the issuance of a
Type IV six -month provisional rental license and mitigation plan for 5715 Emerson Avenue
North, with the requirement that the mitigation plan must be strictly adhered to before a renewal
rental license would be considered.
Motion passed unanimously.
10b. CONSIDERATION OF TYPE IV 6 -MONTH PROVISIONAL RENTAL LICENSE
FOR 6101 XERXES AVENUE NORTH
Ms. Schleuning advised that 6101 Xerxes Avenue North was inspected and nine property code
violations were cited and ultimately corrected. There have been no validated police
incidents /nuisance calls within the last 12 months. This property qualifies for a Type IV six -
month provisional rental license based on the number of property code violations found during
the initial rental license inspection. The property owner is also required to submit a mitigation
plan and report monthly on the progress of that plan. Staff has reviewed that mitigation plan and
held discussion with the property owner and recommends approval based on meeting standards
in the mitigation plan.
Councilmember Lasman moved and Councilmember Ryan seconded to open the hearing.
Motion passed unanimously.
No one addressed the City Council.
05/09/11 -6-
Councilmember Lasman moved and Councilmember Ryan seconded to close the hearing.
Motion passed unanimously.
Councilmember Lasman moved and Councilmember Ryan seconded to approve the issuance of a
Type IV six -month provisional rental license and mitigation plan for 6101 Xerxes Avenue North,
with the requirement that the mitigation plan must be strictly adhered to before a renewal rental
license would be considered.
Motion passed unanimously.
10c. CONSIDERATION OF TYPE IV 6 -MONTH PROVISIONAL RENTAL LICENSE
FOR 6757 HUMBOLDT AVENUE NORTH
Ms. Schleuning advised that 6757 Humboldt Avenue North was inspected and 16 property code
violations were cited and ultimately corrected. In addition, there have been two validated police
incidents /nuisance calls (loud music) within the last 12 months. This property qualifies for a
Type IV six -month provisional rental license based on the number of property code violations
found during the initial rental license inspection. The property owner is also required to submit a
mitigation plan and report monthly on the progress of that plan. Staff has reviewed that
mitigation plan and held discussion with the property owner and recommends approval based on
meeting standards in the mitigation plan.
Councilmember Roche moved and Councilmember Kleven seconded to open the hearing.
Motion passed unanimously.
No one addressed the City Council.
Councilmember Kleven moved and Councilmember Ryan seconded to close the hearing.
Motion passed unanimously.
Councilmember Ryan moved and Councilmember Lasman seconded to approve the issuance of a
Type IV six -month provisional rental license and mitigation plan for 6757 Humboldt Avenue
North, with the requirement that the mitigation plan must be strictly adhered to before a renewal
rental license would be considered.
Motion passed unanimously.
10d. CONSIDERATION OF TYPE IV 6 -MONTH PROVISIONAL RENTAL LICENSE
FOR 5636 IRVING AVENUE NORTH
Ms. Schleuning advised that 5636 Irving Avenue North was inspected and 13 property code
violations were cited and ultimately corrected. There have been no validated police
incidents /nuisance calls within the last 12 months. This property qualifies for a Type IV six-
05/09/11 -7-
month provisional rental license based on the number of property code violations found during
the initial rental license inspection. The property owner is also required to submit a mitigation
plan and report monthly on the progress of that plan. Staff has reviewed that mitigation plan and
held discussion with the property owner and recommends approval based on meeting standards
in the mitigation plan.
Councilmember Lasman moved and Councilmember Roche seconded . too en the hearing.
g
Motion passed unanimously.
No one addressed the CityCouncil.
Councilmember Lasman moved and Councilmember Ryan seconded to close the hearing.
Motion passed unanimously.
Councilmember Lasman asked why the property, once in compliance and licensed, would have
13 violation orders with the renewal license. Ms. Schleuning explained the property can be
damaged by the tenant, resulting in Code violations, which shows the importance of securing
good tenants. She reported on the emphasis of on -going maintenance so there are fewer
violations and the property can be considered for a longer -term rental license.
Councilmember Lasman moved and Councilmember Ryan seconded to approve the issuance of a
Type IV six -month provisional rental license and mitigation plan for 5636 Irving Avenue North,
with the requirement that the mitigation plan must be strictly adhered to before a renewal rental
license would be considered.
Motion passed unanimously.
CONSIDERATION OF AGENDA ITEMS TABLED OR CONTINUED
Mayor Willson addressed the two agenda items that have been tabled or continued for a year. He
recommended the Ordinance Amending Chapter 4 of the Brooklyn Center Charter, Sections 4.01
and 4.02 be placed on the next Council agenda.
Mr. Boganey reported that the Charter Commission reviewed the issue and the Charter
Commission Chair was asked to provide a report to the Council. Mayor Willson stated he will
invite the Charter Commission Chair to the next meeting.
The Council discussed the second item, Resolution Establishing Fees for Community Garden
Plots Regulated by the City of Brooklyn Center, and whether it could be instituted in 2011.
Councilmember Kleven reported the Housing Commission is working on this matter and
believes it will be possible to organize community garden plots by 2012.
05/09/11 -8-
The Council discussed that approval of community gardens is contingent upon identifying an
appropriate location and holding a neighborhood meeting. The option was raised that
community garden plots could be "portable" and change locations from year to year.
Mr. Boganey suggested scheduling the issue of community garden plots for a Council Work
Session so it can be openly discussed and the Council can decide the next appropriate action
related to fees. If the Housing Commission Chair is ready to make a report, it could be presented
at that time.
City Attorney Charlie LeFevere advised that a Work Session is a formal Council meeting and
there is no reason that an item could not be removed from the table and discussed at a Work
Session. However, it is the Council's practice to not take formal action at a Work Session.
The majority consensus of the City Council was to schedule the community garden plot issue as
a Work Session agenda item for discussion and input from the Housing Commission.
11. COUNCIL REPORT
Councilmember Kleven reported on her attendance at the following:
• April 17, 2011, delivered welcome bags to new residents.
• April 28, 2011, Planning Commission meeting.
• May 1, 2011, March for Babies with the March of Dimes.
• May 3, 2011, Palmer Lake East neighborhood preconstruction meeting and community
meeting relating to transit in the northwest metro.
• May 7, 2011, Brooklyn Center Prayer Breakfast.
Councilmember Kleven announced the first neighborhood area meeting scheduled for May 17,
2011, at 6:30 p.m. at Orchard Lane Park. She described the City branded clothing available for
sale and encouraged residents to participate in the May 20, 2011, Brooklyn Center Crime
Prevention Program fundraiser at Centerbrook Golf Course. Councilmember Kleven provided
an update on the food drive, advising that one -forth of the goal has been reached and that $1,100
from the silent auction at the Wedding Dress Style Show would be donated towards building an
amphitheater.
Councilmember Ryan reported on his attendance at the following:
• April 27, 2011, Brooklyn Center High School alumni planning meeting for an all class
reunion the weekend of October 8, which will coincide with the homecoming event and
celebrate the High School's 50 year.
• May 3, 2011 East Palmer Lake preconstruction meeting for the 2011 street utility project.
Councilmember Ryan announced the May 17, 2011, community meeting at Orchard Lane Park,
the first of the four annual meetings in the park. He stated that pizza will be served and the
meeting chaired by Police Chief Benner.
Councilmember Roche reported on the Brooklyn Center elementary schools that won honors in
the Post Office Literary Contest. He described the process that resulted in his volunteering as a
05/09/11 -9-
coach for the Angels, a Brooklyn Center American Little League baseball team. He stated he is
looking forward to a great season and thanked those who will be assisting him in that effort.
Councilmember Lasman reported on her attendance at the following:
• May 3, 2011, neighborhood preconstruction meeting for East Palmer Lake.
• May 7, 2011, Brooklyn Center prayer breakfast that addressed diversity.
• May 7, 2011, Lioness luncheon and style show fundraiser.
Councilmember Lasman reported that tickets are still available for the May 20, 2011 Brooklyn
Center Crime Prevention golf tournament fundraiser and encouraged residents to participate.
Mayor Willson indicated he had nothing to add to the reports presented and concurred with
Councilmember Lasman's comment that volunteerism makes Brooklyn Center a great
community. He stated he had enjoyed coaching Little League and hoped Councilmember Roche
would find it to be a rewarding experience.
12. ADJOURNMENT
Councilmember Ryan moved and Councilmember Kleven seconded adjournment of the City
Y J
Council meeting at 8:08 p.m.
Motion passed unanimously.
05/09/11 -10-
STATE OF MINNESOTA)
COUNTY OF HENNEPIN) ss. Certification of Minutes
CITY OF BROOKLYN CENTER)
The undersigned, being the duly qualified and appointed City Clerk of the City of
Brooklyn Center, Minnesota, certifies:
1. That attached hereto is a full, true, and complete transcript of the minutes of a
Regular Session of the City Council of the City of Brooklyn Center held on May
9, 2011.
2. That said meeting was held pursuant to due call and notice thereof and was duly
held at Brooklyn Center City Hall.
3. That the City Council adopted said minutes at its May 23, 2011, Regular Session.
City Clerk Mayor
05/09/11 -11-