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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2012 03-12 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 MARCH 12, 2012 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 9:07 p.m. ROLL CALL Mayor/President Tim Willson and Councilmembers/Commissioners Carol Kleven, Kay Lasman, Lin Myszkowski, 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 & Community Standards Vickie Schleuning, and Carla Wirth, TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc. CITY COUNCIL FACILITATED RETREAT UPDATE—CONTINUED It was noted that consensus had been reached during the recent City Council facilitated retreat relating to strategic goals, desired outcomes, and success targets. The EDA/City Council discussed objectives requiring further discussion. Goal #1: 1. Reduce violent crime by 10%or more each 2. Reduce property crime by 10%or more each year. City Manager Curt Boganey displayed a chart depicting the Part I crime rate without theft (shoplifting). He explained one of the flaws with using a single indicator(Part I crimes) is that it includes eight types of crimes including shoplifting and murder so when you aggregate the crimes to a single number, it may not present the clear picture intended. Police Chief Kevin Benner advised of the crimes included in Part I crimes. Mr. Boganey raised the option of segregating out certain Part I crimes and look at Part II crimes, or those having the most significant impact on Brooklyn Center, and setting targets on particular crimes within those groups. Then the City can determine where to focus its resources and goals on those identified crimes. Mr. Boganey described options available for the EDA/City Council's consideration. Chief Benner noted in 2007 the City Council had decided to focus on violent crimes and that focus resulted in a substantial decline, as depicted in the crime rate chart. He recommended the 03/12/12 -1- City now focus on simple assaults because the City has a disproportionate number of assaults and domestic violence, in addition to DWI enforcement to reduce that type of accident. Councilmember/Commissioner Myszkowski supported focusing on burglary crimes, which is significant to Brooklyn Center. Councilmember/Commissioner Ryan commented on the potential upswing should a specific target be set that is low in incidents. He stated he has received complaints about people coming on the bus and committing burglaries in Brooklyn Center. Councilmember/Commissioner Kleven noted crime changes over times depending on the neighborhoods and changes in the law also increases the rate of apprehensive, such as with copper theft. She stated she is thrilled with the work of the Police Department. Councilmember/Commissioner Lasman noted as retail redevelopment occurs,more incidences of theft will be reported. She stated she wants to see measurable results in resident's safety and supported focusing on burglaries. Mayor/President Willson indicated he was looking for a decline in numbers across-the-board, creating a downward trend. Chief Benner advised that 500 of the City's larceny cases were shoplifting and during the last six months domestic assaults are down 40 percent because the Department has focused on repeat offenders. He also advised that the top arson incident in Brooklyn Center is the burning of "porta-potties" and in recent months the majority of crimes were known, not being random in nature. Mayor/President Willson stated the Police Department has been doing an excellent job in Brooklyn Center and has a cooperative relationship between officers, staff, and individuals. Chief Benner thanked the EDA/City Council for its support. Mr. Boganey stated staff will analyze the data and return with possible success indicators that are more focused on Brooklyn Center than on a single measure. Goal 41: 3 City survey results will reflect that all citizens feel safe walking alone at night The EDA/City Council agreed with the suggestion of Councilmember/Commissioner Lasman to broaden this survey question to include: "in the metro region" or "Do you feel less so in Brooklyn Center." Goal #2: 2 At least 80% of privately owned vacant commercial properties will complete development by 2016 redevelopment of these properties will commence by 2012 03/12/12 -2- The EDA/City Council indicated it had been thought the economic recover would occur quicker but the City's Vacant Property Ordinance contains built-in incentives, which have resulted in improved properties. Mr. Boganey indicated staff will provide data on how far the City is from meeting the 2016 date. The consensus of the EDA/City Council was to leave this goal as stated pending additional staff input. Goal#3: 1. By 2013 the average residential sale price will stop declining The consensus of the EDA/City Council was that this goal is at the "mercy" of the real estate market,to leave this goal as stated,and review it again next year. Goal #4: Positively embrace the community demographic make-up and increasing cultural diversity The consensus of the EDA/City Council was to use staff recommended language. Goal #4: 2 All youth who desire will be productively engaged in recreational activities or educational programs The EDA/City Council discussed the wording of this goal and whether the City should provide to assure all youth are enabled or engaged. Agreement was reached that while a programming Y good philosophy,the City does not have funding for such monetary contributions but could work in partnership with other organizations, such as the school district. Mr. Boganey noted the current wording leaves it open to all options, whether through City funding, grants, or working with partners. The consensus of the EDA/City Council was to leave this goal as stated. Goal #5: The traveling_public will benefit from multi-modal transportation options fostered and provided by the City Mr. Boganey indicated the EDA/City Council's comments from the retreat related to safe transportation. The EDA/City Council acknowledged there was some resident displeasure with the current light rail route through Minneapolis and that it would be of great benefit for the City to be on the light rail corridor. The consensus of the EDA/City Council was to reword this goal to indicate: "...benefit from safe multi-modal transportation..." 03/12/12 -3- NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES SERVICE LINE PROGRAM Mr. Boganey introduced the item and requested the EDA/City Council's feedback if it wanted to become involved in the Service Line Program. Councilmember/Commissioner Ryan stated this program has credibility since it was vetted through the National League of Cities and it would be up to property owners whether they want to participate. He noted the probability of service line failure increases as homes age and most homes in Brooklyn Center are 50+ years. Public Works Director/City Engineer Steve Lillehaug concurred that older utilities result in more repairs. Councilmember/Commissioner Lasman stated while she is not opposed, she was concerned with potential disadvantages as listed in the staff report. Councilmember/Commissioner Kleven expressed concern that should the resident not be satisfied with the repair,the City may be included in the complaint. Mr. Boganey noted the City is not providing the service but being asked to write a letter endorsing the program. It is the choice of each resident whether to participate. He noted one positive to participation is educating the public about this issue; however, there are other ways to accomplish education. Councilmember/Commissioner Ryan stated he shares the concern with Councilmember/ Commissioner Kleven that the City could be included in the blame should the repair air not be satisfactorily completed. Councilmember/Commissioner Kleven asked whether the City would gain revenue through this program resulting in inclusion in a lawsuit. Mr. Boganey explained the City can receive a small fee or decide to not accept it and have that money become a discount to the person buying the warranty, which would be his recommendation. Councilmember/Commissioner Kleven stated she has received several solicitations for this type of service. Councilmember/Commissioner Lasman asked about the cost of the mailings. Mr. Boganey indicated the company would pay for all mailings and does not require a certain percentage of participation. Mayor/President Willson stated he would not support the City accepting a royalty, which should be conveyed to the residents as well. He noted the information indicates the company would vet and retain local professional contractors, customer satisfaction would be tracked, and contractors with low ratings would be removed from the list. Mayor/President Willson indicated it appears there is a good vetting process; however, he was uncomfortable with the City sending out the letter because it then looks like the City is involved or endorsing the program. He noted that that in 2010, 48 homes out of the City's 7,000 homes could have used this service. 03/12/12 -4- Councilmember/Commissioner Myszkowski noted if the program works well, it could help many residents and some have financial issues. The EDA/City Council discussed the program and all expressed concern with the City endorsing a private business and that residents may misinterpret the letter and think it is a mandatory program. Mr. Boganey suggested the EDA/City Council request a representative attend a future meeting to answer the EDA/City Council's questions. He indicated the City has to approve the letter and included indicating even though the City is endorsing could ask whether a clear statement can be g g Y g this service, other similar services are available that residents may want to consider. Mr. Lillehaug advised that the program has been in existence for three years and in Minnesota, only the city of Buffalo uses this program. The majority consensus of the EDA/City Council was to request more information, a copy of the draft letter ro osed to be mailed to residents, determine whether the City can change wording of p P the letter, and provide a solid estimate of the subscriber rate. BROOKLYN BRIDGE ALLIANCE FOR YOUTH UPDATE Mr. Boganey introduced the item and explained the Brooklyn Bridge Alliance for Youth, established by Mayor/President Willson and Brooklyn Park Mayor Lampi, has been in existence for three years. The Alliance has held discussion for several years, had several significant conferences, and developed a strategic plan as a first step toward action to provide quality opportunities for youth. Mr. Boganey indicated that to move that agenda forward, it will take resources beyond existing staffing. He noted a draft budget has been prepared and, if approved, the Alliance would contact potential partners about their willingness to provide some funding. Mr. Boganey explained he thinks Brooklyn Center and Brooklyn Park will have to take the lead to demonstrate the value of the Alliance and ability to implement the strategic plan. If successful, he expects other partners to make larger contributions toward sharing the cost. Mr. Boganey asked the EDA/City Council whether it was willing to "kick-start" the project by making a contribution. Councilmember/Commissioner Lasman asked if it would be an annual or one-time contribution. Mr. Boganey stated it would be a two-year commitment, the same amount each year. He explained that two years is long enough for the Alliance to demonstrate its value and if successful, other partners should contribute to a greater degree. In addition, there are grant opportunities to make it less expensive. Councilmember/Commissioner Kleven asked about the budget for salary. Mr. Boganey indicated a large part of the budget is salary for a part-time position of$60,000 plus $100,000 for a full-time position. He estimated a budget range of$200,000 up to $350,000 when all elements of the plan are in place. The minimum budget would be $150,000 to $170,000 including about $75,000 as salary. 03/12/12 -5- Mayor/President Willson noted when the EDA/City Council first started talking about this,it was a hard sell for Brooklyn Center to be part of the Alliance but now the EDA/City Council has seen the benefit. He restated that if Brooklyn Center is part of this effort, it should be as an equal partner. Councilmember/Commissioner Lasman stated a $25,000 contribution with a two-year commitment is very appropriate and that Brooklyn Park contribute a higher level because it has more youth,more residents, and a bigger budget. Councilmember/Commissioner Lasman agreed with the need to do something for youth and this is a good effort. She stated if this effort is successful, she would then be willing to consider additional contributions. Councilmember/Commissioner Myszkowski stated it always seems like Brooklyn Center is the "step sister" and if the City became the lead in the effort, it would be noticed. She indicated these partnerships need a jump start and she supports participation by Brooklyn Center because it is desperate out there for the City's youth. Councilmember/Commissioner Myszkowski stated she had intended to congratulate the "A List" that was started by two university students who created a business plan for at-risk youth to run their own business and got a grant to fund it. She indicated she wants to be conservative but believed the City's youth were worth this contribution. Councilmember/Commissioner Lasman felt with a$25,000 contribution, Brooklyn Center would be an equal partner with Brooklyn Park. Councilmember/Commissioner Kleven agreed and stated she supports contributing$25,000. Councilmember/Commissioner Ryan stated he assumes Mr. Boganey's recommendation of $25,000 is shaped by what the City can do but if Mr. Boganey suggests it is strategically to the City's advantage to increase the amount, he is willing to consider it. Mr. Boganey stated there is clear EDA/City Council consensus 'to contribute to kick start the program with the majority supporting $25,000 and some willing to contribute more. He stated he will look at the budget, find out the position of other partners, and bring back a report and recommendation for the EDA/City Council's consideration. BROOKLYNS YOUTH COUNCIL REQUEST—COUNCILMEMBER RYAN Councilmember/Commissioner Ryan requested EDA/City Council discussion on the best way to more forward in terms of formalizing a working relationship between the Brooklyns Youth Council and Brooklyn Center City Council. He indicated he had offered the Brooklyns Youth Council two options: 1.) Schedule Brooklyns Youth Council representatives to address the City Council at Open Forum or Work Session; or, 2.) Authorize a volunteer citizen commission to research issues in the City and bring recommendations to the EDA/City Council. Councilmember/Commissioner Ryan indicated they chose to pursue the second option of a volunteer citizen commission. 03/12/12 -6- Councilmember/Commissioner Kleven noted the Brooklyns Youth Council meets on the first Monday so there may be need for them to adjust their meeting date. She indicated that 16 members were at the meeting she attended with Councilmember/Commissioner Ryan. Councilmember/Commissioner Lasman asked whether this "volunteer citizen commission" would be formally recognized by the City or an informal liaison appointment. Councilmember/Commissioner Ryan suggested consideration of a commission operated on an ad-hoc basis. Councilmember/Commissioner Myszkowski asked what the Brooklyn Park City Council had decided and indicated she is excited about this opportunity,which will give the youth a voice. Councilmember/Commissioner Lasman noted the Brooklyns Youth Council will need to understand that the City Council's meeting schedule would take priority if there is a conflict. Councilmember/Commissioner Myszkowski stated the Brooklyns Youth Council has a van to pick up youth so they can attend the meeting so it may be difficult to change a meeting night. The consensus of the EDA/City Council was to direct staff to draft a resolution to formalize the creation of an ad-hoc commission with the Brooklyns Youth Council for a two-year term and appoint Councilmember/Commissioner Ryan to attend as the EDA/City Council's liaison and address scheduling if a conflict arises. ADJOURNMENT Councilmember/Commissioner Ryan moved and Councilmember/Commissioner Myszkowski seconded adjournment of the City Council/Economic Development Authority Work Session at 10:58 p.m. Motion passed unanimously. 03/12/12 -7- 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 March 12, 2012. 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 March 26, 2012, Regular Session. City Clerk Mayor 03/12/12 -8-