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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2011 06-13 CCM Work Session MINUTES OF THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE CITY COUNCIL/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF BROOKLYN CENTER IN THE COUNTY OF HENNEPIN AND THE STATE OF MINNESOTA WORK SESSION JUNE 13, 2011 CITY HALL — COUNCIL CHAMBERS CALL TO ORDER The Brooklyn Center City Council /Economic Development Authority (EDA) met in Work Session called to order by Mayor/President Tim Willson at 7:49 p.m. ROLL CALL Mayor/President Tim Willson and Councilmembers /Commissioners 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, EDA/HRA Specialist Tom Bublitz, Director of Community Activities, Recreation and Services Jim Glasoe, Assistant City Manager/Director of Building and Community Standards Vickie Schleuning, Assistant City Attorney Corrine Heine, and Carla Wirth, TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc. PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION ON "NO SMOKING IN THE PARKS" POLICY Councilmember /Commissioner Lasman noted the youth issue is clearly addressed on the new sign by indicating "when youth are present." It was noted that the Dudley Softball Classic and Centerbrook Golf Course would not fall under this policy. The City Council/EDA discussed its support of the recommended policy, noting the Commission's discussions had been well thought out and the issue astutely debated. With regard to compliance, Director of Community Activities, Recreation and Services Jim Glasoe stated there will not be enforcement but, rather, voluntary compliance, education of the public, signage, and contacts with youth program coordinators about this policy. Councilmember /Commissioner Kleven stated her support of the recommended policy. Mayor /President Willson stated there have been enough studies that show tobacco is a cancer causing agent and while he would rather not exclude the Dudley Softball Classic, was willing to support this policy and monitor what happens. Councilmember /Commissioner Ryan stated he would not be opposed to a wider policy banning tobacco in parks, possibly suspending the policy for the Dudley Softball Classic, but he would oppose an ordinance because of enforcement issues. Councilmember /Commissioner Ryan felt the principle of voluntary compliance through social pressure was the best approach. 06/13/11 -1- Councilmember /Commissioner Roche noted the Dudley Softball Classic is only one weekend a year and advocated for immediately instituting a ban on tobacco use in all parks including trails, the Dudley Softball Classic, and the Centerbrook Golf Course. Councilmember /Commissioner Lasman agreed that the Dudley Softball Classic is only one weekend but noted that event brings a lot of positive attention to Brooklyn Center. With regard to a full ban on tobacco use, she felt it may cause an impact to adult softball players. Brittany McFadden, Tobacco Free Compliance, explained they provide signage and updated the City Council/EDA that policies are ever changing and currently 136 communities have adopted such a policy. She noted the poster that contained signatures collected at Earth Feast supporting this policy for the City's entire park system. Ms. McFadden advised that the best way to enforce is to post signs so staff and citizens are empowered to point out the policy exists. She asked what will be in the City's policy. Mr. Boganey stated he will provide a copy of the policy to Ms. McFadden. The majority consensus of the City Council/EDA was reached to support the Park and Recreation Commission's recommendation for voluntary compliance and direct staff to bring that policy forward for adoption. UPDATE ON NEIGHBORHOOD STABILIZATION PROGRAM (NSP 1) EDA/HRA Specialist Tom Bublitz updated the City Council/EDA on the Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP 1), noting the purpose is to get foreclosed housing back into occupancy and to help stabilize neighborhoods. He described the funding received, NSP 1 timeline in which all NSP1 funds must be spent by March 2013, and projects to which it was allocated. Mr. Bublitz advised of the green initiatives used in the rehabilitation process, noting the sale price would be established at market rate which is significantly less than the cost of acquisition and rehabilitation. Mr. Bublitz reviewed the criteria for buyer eligibility relating to household earnings, eligibility, and buyer assistance offered. It was noted that Hennepin County is responsible for compliance and should the terms not be met, a lien would be filed against the property and collected at the time of sale. Mr. Bublitz displayed before and after pictures of rehabbed properties and asked if the City Council/EDA would be interested in touring any of the properties. Councilmembers/ Commissioners Kleven, Ryan, and Lasman indicated an interest. Mr. Boganey stated staff will determine available dates and inform the Councilmembers/ Commissioners. Mr. Bublitz reported on the anticipated funding of NSP3 and stated he will provide more information as it is available. In response to the City Council/EDA's questions, Mr. Bublitz explained the money received from the sale of the house goes back to the NSP1 fund with the exception of the buyer's assistance amount. In addition, legal costs related to drafting the agreements are covered by NSP funds as well as some documented administrative staff time. It was noted that to purchase a property, an appraisal is required with purchase at a one percent discount. 06/13/11 -2- 2011 BROOKLYN BOULEVARD CORRIDOR STUDY REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) Public Works Director /City Engineer Steve Lillehaug described the condition of Brooklyn Boulevard and past studies conducted on this corridor. He explained that past studies, some being 17 years old, may be more applicable to the north end that has been somewhat redeveloped and streetscaped. However, past studies do not address many aspects of having a "shovel ready" project. Mr. Lillehaug displayed photos depicting existing conditions of the corridor, noting it is not pedestrian friendly and lacks aesthetics. The City Council/EDA noted the homes along the Brooklyn Boulevard corridor that have recently been purchased for rehabilitation. Mr. Lillehaug advised of the transportation and development issues identified in the Comprehensive Plan and elements that need to be considered when the final corridor plan is developed. He then presented a summary of work tasks and timeline and estimated it may cost $150,000 to $200,000 to complete a comprehensive corridor study encompassing the work tasks identified. Pending approval, staff will present a budget amendment to use TIF District No. 2 funding at the City Council/EDA's June 27 and August 1, 2011, meetings. The City Council/EDA discussed the recommendation and noted the safety and calming measures will make the corridor more neighborhood friendly. Mr. Lillehaug reported the County has identified Brooklyn Boulevard as a provisional project in 2015 so it would be best for the City to complete the groundwork for a project it would support. With regard to funding, Mr. Lillehaug advised that the County declined partnering with funding of the study but would partner with the project, when constructed. The majority consensus of the City Council/EDA was that the City should take the initiative to define the project to assure it is not governed by minimum costs and to proceed with the RFP for the corridor study and consideration of a staff identified funding source. DESIGNATING CITY COMMISSION TO PROVIDE REVIEW AND INPUT ON THE WATERSHED MANAGEMENT PLAN Mr. Lillehaug stated this consideration is to assign individuals or an advisory committee to provide review and input on the Watershed Management Plan for the Shingle Creek and West Mississippi Watershed Management Commissions. He reported that not all on the Park and Recreation Commission were interested; however, the Planning Commission indicated an interest if it is a routine item at their regular meetings. It was noted this task is for a specified period of time of 12 -18 months. The City Council/EDA discussed options to assign the task to an advisory Commission or appoint a task force of interested individuals. 06/13/11 -3- Mr. Lillehaug stated staff discussed involvement by the Housing or Charter Commissions; however, it was believed that water quality issues were a better fit for the Park and Recreation Commission or Planning Commission. With regard to staffing, it was noted that coordination would be required with the Watershed Districts. Mr. Lillehaug stated his preference that it be assigned to the Planning Commission because all were interested and it could be handled at their regular meeting. The majority consensus of the City Council/EDA was to expedite the process through the Planning Commission with an invitation to interested Park and Recreation Commissioners to participate, if they so choose. It was suggested the topic be scheduled at the beginning of the meeting agenda to facilitate the attendance of Park and Recreation Commissioners. REPORT ON SHINGLE CREEK TOWERS SITE Mr. Boganey introduced the item, reviewed the history, and indicated the successful high bidder is a resident of New York. He advised of staff s conversations with HUD representatives and that concern has been expressed by residents and HOME Line relating to whether any sale would be acceptable if it does not guarantee the continuation of affordable rental units for the period of time originally envisioned. Staff has also expressed the City's concern relating to the reputation of the high bidder to HUD and elected representatives and drafted written correspondence. The City Council /EDA discussed its concern with the reportedly poor management practices of the high bidder and support to express its opposition to HUD in the strongest terms as well as provide this information to Senators Franken and Klobuchar and request support. Councilmember /Commissioner Roche advocated for a proactive stance, researching potential legal action, and taking more aggressive measures, if warranted. Assistant City Attorney Corrine Heine advised that a legal action against HUD would require finding a violation of procedures or regulations. Mr. Boganey explained that if the previous property owner had made this sale, there would have been no recourse for the City. It was noted the City has effective enforcement tools for rental units. The majority consensus of the City Council/EDA was to direct staff to draft a letter for the Mayor's signature as well as contact and provide this information to the City's elected federal officials and request their support. PREVIEW OF NEW CITY WEBSITE Assistant City Manager/Director of Building and Community Standards Vickie Schleuning introduced the item, reviewed the background of the City's website development, and noted the new website design reflects the progressive nature of the City and the timing complements the City's Centennial Celebration. She advised of Website Development Team and staff members who contributed to the website's design, content, and the process used in its creation. Ms. 06/13/11 -4- Schleuning provided a tutorial of the City's new contemporary website design that offers ease of use, more information, services, and convenience. The City Council/EDA complimented staff on the new website design and suggested it be promoted in City Watch. Mr. Boganey added his appreciation to Ms. Schleuning for her extraordinary work. ADJOURNMENT Councilmember /Commissioner Lasman moved and Councilmember /Commissioner Ryan seconded adjournment of the City Council/Economic Development Authority Work Session at 10:25 p.m. Motion passed unanimously. 06/13/11 -5- 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 Work Session of the City Council of the City of Brooklyn Center held on June 13, 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 June 27, 2011, Regular Session. �bw K&AqA-- ': � ---. -, e r�� W z � 1� City Clerk Mayor 06/13/11 -6-