HomeMy WebLinkAbout2019 09-23 CCM Regular SessionMINUTES OF THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF BROOKLYN CENTER IN THE COUNTY
OF HENNEPIN AND THE STATE OF MINNESOTA
SEPTEMBER 23, 2019
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 Mike
Elliott at 6:45 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Mayor Mike Elliott and Councilmembers Marquita Butler, April Graves, Kris Lawrence -
Anderson, and Dan Ryan. Also present were City Manager Curt Boganey, Deputy City Manager
Reggie Edwards, Director of Fiscal & Support Services Nate Reinhardt, Community
Development Director Meg Beelanan, City Attorney Troy Gilchrist, and City Clerk Barb Suciu.
Mayor Mike Elliott opened the meeting for Informal Open Forum.
Mr. Lutz, Sarin Brothers Automotive, 5810 Xerxes Avenue, expressed concern about excessive
loitering in the parking lot at 5810 Xerxes Avenue. He added it is difficult for the businesses in
the building. He presented photos for the City Council's review. He noted he and other business
owners call for police enforcement several times a week. He requested more police enforcement
and better surveillance.
Councilmember Butler asked whether there are security cameras on the property. Mr. Lutz
stated security cameras were installed by the business owners, as well as additional lighting.
Councilmember Ryan thanked Mr. Lutz for coming to the City Council meeting and alerting the
City Council and City Staff about this situation.
Councilmember Lawrence -Anderson suggested that Mr. Lutz should meet with Police
Department representatives. Mr. Lutz stated the police have come and talked to them many
times and have told them to call the police to report loitering.
Mayor Elliott asked whether the police officers at the transit station have made a difference. Mr.
Lutz stated people who are forced to leave the transit station come to their parking lot. He added
they are not able to provide assistance because they stay at the transit center.
City Manager Curt Boganey thanked Mr. Lutz for bringing these legitimate concerns to the City
Council's attention. He added City Staff could investigate and provide a review for the City
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Council at an upcoming Regular Meeting and provide strategies and suggestions for addressing
this issue.
Councilmember Lawrence -Anderson requested that City Staff notify Mr. Lutz when that is
scheduled. Mr. Boganey agreed.
Arlan Daudt, 6000, York Avenue, expressed concern that traffic will increase on his street when
Brooklyn Boulevard is reconstructed.
Mr. Daudt asked who paid for the recent Opportunity Site open house where food was served.
Mr. Boganey stated that it was an Economic Development Authority/City-sponsored event.
Mr. Daudt asked who wrote the 2040 Comprehensive Plan. Mr. Boganey stated the
Comprehensive Plan document was a collaboration with many participants, including City Staff,
Consultants, Commissions, and City Council, as well as input from residents.
Mr. Daudt asked why the development of single-family homes was not considered for the
Brookdale Ford site. He added more input and ideas should have been reviewed and considered.
He noted he would support more single-family homes or a big box store.
Mr. Daudt stated the new apartment complex at 61" Avenue would have 1.6 parking spaces per
unit. He added that will not be enough, as many residents will have two or more cars.
Councilmember Graves moved, and Councilmember Ryan seconded to close the Informal Open
Forum at 7:00 p.m.
Motion passed unanimously.
2. INVOCATION
Councilmember Ryan read the following quote for the Invocation:
Progress, far from consisting in change, depends on retentiveness. When change
is absolute there remains no being to improve, and no direction is set for possible
improvement: and when experience is not retained, as among savages, infancy is
perpetual. Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.
-George Santayana, The Life of Reason, Volume 1, 1905
3. CALL TO ORDER REGULAR BUSINESS MEETING
The Brooklyn Center City Council met in Regular Session called to order by Mayor Mike Elliott
at 7:00 p.m.
4. ROLL CALL
Mayor Mike Elliott and Councilmembers Marquita Butler, April Graves, Kris Lawrence -
Anderson, and Dan Ryan. Also present were City Manager Curt Boganey, Deputy City Manager
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Reggie Edwards, Director of Fiscal & Support Services Nate Reinhardt, Community
Development Director Meg Beekman, City Attorney Troy Gilchrist, and City Clerk Barb Suciu.
5. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
6. APPROVAL OF AGENDA AND CONSENT AGENDA
Councilmember Ryan moved, and Councilmember Lawrence -Anderson seconded to remove
Consent Agenda Item 6d and add it to the Regular Meeting Agenda as Item l Ob.
Motion passed unanimously.
Councilmember Graves moved, and Councilmember Lawrence -Anderson seconded to approve
the Agenda and Consent Agenda, as amended remove Item 6d, Resolution No. 2019-120
Establishing an Office for the Mayor for consideration as Item 10b, and the following consent
items were approved:
6a. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1.
August 7, 2019 — Joint Work Session CC and FC
2.
August 19, 2019 — Joint Work Session CC and FC
3.
September 9, 2019 — Study Session
4.
September 9, 2019 — Regular Session
5.
September 9, 2019 — Work Session
6b. LICENSES
OFF -SALE 3.2 BEER LICENSE
Casey' General Store #3823 2101 Freeway Blvd
MECHANICAL LICENSES
Air Comfort Heating & A/C
Appliance Connections Inc.
Bettin Inc. dba Ecowater
Neil Heating & A/C Inc
WJW Company dba
Twin City Heating & Air
19170 Jasper St NW
Anoka, MN 55303
12850 Chestnut Blvd.
Shakopee, MN 55379
3208 First Street S
Waite Park, MN 56387
PO Box 29292
Brooklyn Center, MN 55429
10600 University Ave NW
Coon Rapids, MN 55448
RENTAL
INITIAL (TYPE III — one-year license)
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5416 Fremont Avenue Luisa Naraez
6325 Xerxes Avenue N Linus Amajuoyi/Associated Tender Care LLC
RENEWAL (T)'PE IV— one-year license)
5519-23 Lyndale Avenue N Dragon Properties Mgt/Brad Hildreth
5606 Bryant Avenue N MNSF II W1 LLC (met mitigation plan)
1112 Emerson Lane Bodhi Tree — Missing CPTED Inspection follow up
RENEWAL (TYPE III— one-year license)
6800 Bryant Avenue N Peter Nguyen
RENEWAL (TYPE II — two-year license)
5937 Abbott Avenue Mark Crost
5739 James Avenue N Douglas Wahl/Rifive Investments
(met action plan)
RENEWAL (TYPE I— three-year license)
5207 Xerxes Avenue N Dean Bona
312566 th Avenue N Danny Vo
7212 Humboldt Avenue N I1-12 Properties Illinois LP
5319 Knox Avenue N Daniel Allen Yesnes
4207 Lakeside Avenue N #240 Tommy Conteh
5541 Morgan Avenue N Paul Zheng/5541 Morgan Ave LLC
3216 Poe Road Matt Just — met action plan
5400 Queen Avenue N Prosperous Property
6c. RESOLUTION NO. 2019-119 APPROVING LOCAL WATER SUPPLY
PLAN
6d. RESOLUTION NO. 2019-120 ESTABLISHING AN OFFICE FOR THE
MAYOR This item was considered as Agenda Item l Ob.
6e. RESOLUTION NO. 2019-121 APPROVING AN APPLICATION TO THE
METROPOLITAN COUNCIL FOR THE WATER EFFICIENCY GRANT
PROGRAM
6f. RESOLUTION NO. 2019-122 ACCEPTING FEASIBILITY REPORT AND
CALLING FOR AN IMPROVEMENT PUBLIC HEARING FOR
IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NOS. 2020-01, 02, 03 AND 04, GRANDVIEW
NORTH AREA STREET, STORM DRAINAGE, AND UTILITY
IMPROVEMENTS
6g. EXEMPTION OF SISTER CITIES COMMISSION FROM CITY
COUNCIL POLICIES (RESOLUTION 96-132)
Motion passed unanimously.
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7. PRESENTATIONS/PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS/DONATIONS
7a. RESOLUTION NO. 2019-123 ACKNOWLEDGING SERVICE OF SERGEANT
CORRINE BECKER
Mayor Elliott read in frill a Resolution expressing recognition and appreciation for public service of
Sergeant Corinne Becker, who was hired on October 1, 1998. Sergeant Becker was promoted to
the rank, of Police Sergeant on July 28, 2015, after serving in a variety of capacities, until her
retirement on September 3, 2019. The City of Brooklyn Center recognizes Sergeant Becker's
honorable retirement and express sincere appreciation for her passion for serving the community
and dedication to public service.
Councilmember Ryan moved, and Councilmember Lawrence -Anderson seconded to adopt
RESOLUTION NO. 2019-123 Acknowledging Service of Sergeant Corrine Becker.
Motion passed unanimously.
7b. PROCLAMATION OBSERVING NIGERIA INDEPENDENCE DAY
Mayor Elliott read in full a Proclamation declaring the observance of Nigeria Independence Day
on Saturday, October 5, 2019, in the City of Brooklyn Center.
Councilmember Graves moved, and Councilmember Ryan seconded to adopt a Proclamation
Observing Nigeria Independence Day
Motion passed unanimously.
7c. PRESENTATION FROM MR. FRANK GATLIN, OWNER AND DEVELOPER
OF SHINGLE CREEK CROSSING.
Mayor Elliott introduced Frank Gatlin and welcomed him to address the City Council.
Frank Gatlin, owner, and developer Shingle Creek Crossing, former Brookdale Mall site, stated
he first met with the City Council many years ago to discuss the redevelopment of the Brookdale
Mall property. He added the project was started in 2008-09, with many obstacles, but came to
fruition with the help and support of City Staff and the City Council. He noted there is currently
a small percent of vacancy, and reiterated his intention of staying with Shingle Creel, Crossing
and not selling the property until the development is finished.
Mr. Gatlin stated there is interest from a drive-through car wash near the Sears site. We have
tenant interest. He added many retail stores had been added, as well as Bayou Seafood Factory
Cajun Restaurant. He noted he is determined to redevelop the Sears site, and finding a solution
for that property.
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Mr. Gatlin stated he has appreciated working with the City of Brooklyn Center. He added he
would continue to work with the City to come up with concepts and ideas that put people in
business and hire employees.
Mr. Gatlin stated the Mayor and Mr. Boganey have indicated there are issues with Walmart
related to trash in the parking lot, getting shopping carts back to the property, and long check-out
lines. He added he does not believe Walmart Operations is aware of these issues. He noted he
would address it with the Brooklyn Center Walmart store management
Mr. Gatlin encouraged the City Council to continue to contact him with any comments or
concerns regarding Shingle Creels Crossing.
Councilmember Ryan stated the City appreciates that Mr. Gatlin tools on a challenging and
complex project when Brookdale Mall was replaced by Shingle Creels Crossing. He added the
mall closing was not a failure on the part of the City. He noticed many more packages fiom
online retailers being delivered to doorsteps while canvassing for the 2018 election. He asked
what Mr. Gatlin thinks the biggest obstacle is for continuing complete buildout and development
of Shingle Creels Crossing.
Mr. Gatlin stated the development had continued piece by piece, and there are currently only
nine parcels left. He added he is working with three potential tenants to fill these spaces, which
will hopefully open the door for additional retail development. He added he hopes to include a
destination entertainment space, potentially at the Sears site.
Councilmember Butler agreed that entertainment and shopping should be the focus of Shingle
Creek Crossing. She added there is a lot of trash everywhere in Shingle Creels Crossing, and she
does not shop there. She noted residents do not want to shop there if there are trash and
overfilled garbage cans.
Mr. Gatlin stated he would be at Shingle Creek Crossing the next few days and he would look
into the issue of full trash cans and trash on the ground. He added proper trash containers are on
the site and are being emptied every night. He noted he wants the development to look good and
agreed to look into it.
Councilmember Ryan stated Walmart does not give priority to the recovery of its shopping carts.
He added customers take the carts and they are scattered around the area. He noted if district or
regional management is made aware of this situation, they might take a different approach. Mr.
Gatlin agreed.
Councilmember Graves asked whether Mr. Gatlin takes into consideration the types of
businesses that are pursued during the development phase. Mr. Gatlin stated he ensures they are
financially sound and will be able to keep their store open.
Councilmember Graves asked whether Mr. Gatlin considers issues such as livable wage, paid
family leave for staff, and other worker's rights. Mr. Gatlin stated he is not able to control the
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minimum wage, although he would like to see higher salaries. He added he is more concerned
with providing jobs.
Councilmember Graves asked whether Mr. Gatlin is interested in providing opportunities for
entrepreneurs in Shingle Creek Crossing. Mr. Gatlin agreed, adding he spoke with the Mayor
and Mr. Boganey about the possibility of the development of test stores for people with an idea
for a business.
Councilmember Graves stated she supports that discussion, as entrepreneurs, small businesses,
and resident -run start-up companies are the fastest-growing sector.
Mr. Gatlin suggested a Work Session with the City Council to review development ideas and
opportunities for new businesses and affordable spaces.
Councilmember Lawrence -Anderson thanked Mr. Gatlin for providing information about the car
wash that may come to the area. Mr. Gatlin stated the car wash is already under the agreement
and will be membership -based. He agreed to provide additional information as it becomes
available.
City Manager Curt Boganey thanked Mr. Gatlin for his presentation. He added Mr. Gatlin
provided development opportunities for Brooklyn Center at a time when local developers were
not interested. He noted Mr. Gatlin made a promise, and he stuck to his word. He expressed his
appreciation for Mr. Gatlin's flexibility and commitment.
8. PUBLIC HEARINGS
8a. RESOLUTIONS APPROVING PROPOSED MODIFICATIONS TO UTILITY
FEE SCHEDULES RELATED TO DELINQUENT UTILITY CHARGES
Mr. Boganey stated the City Council reviewed utility fees and delinquent charges at a recent
Work Session, to determine how additional charges affect residents' ability to make payments.
He added Finance Director Nate Reinhardt would provide a review and update on this issue.
Finance Director Nate Reinhardt reviewed the proposed utility fee schedule modifications. He
stated 7.5% of utility bills are being certified, 98% of which are residential accounts, and 60%
were certified the previous year. He added the average amount of certification is $735. He
noted this issue was reviewed by a team of City Staff who made recommendations for delinquent
charges process changes.
Mr. Reinhardt stated the City has been successful in collecting fees through special assessments,
but there are administrative cost considerations related to processing, publishing, and reconciling
accounts that are not paid on time. City staff believes delinquent charges are higher than
associated costs.
Mr. Reinhardt stated other area cities that use Logis billing software were reviewed. He added
all the other cities charge a late penalty fee, but Brooklyn Center's 10% fee was the highest. He
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noted only 2 of the other cities sent out a penalty notice, and all the others apply it directly to the
customer's account with no notice.
Mr. Reinhardt stated the following changes are proposed: use quarterly delinquent charges on
utility accounts with 10% of unpaid balance with no additional charge, so residents will not be
penalized unless they miss a deadline; increase certification process fees for collection of
property taxes from $30 to $50 as an appropriate way to recoup administrative costs; and
increase the threshold for accounts to be certified to greater than or equal to $150, which is the
minimum residential threshold, which would decrease the number of accounts in certification.
Mr. Reinhardt stated City Staff recommends City Council approval of Resolutions amending
utility fees.
Councilmember Graves asked how much utility costs would increase. Mr. Reinhardt stated that
it is a City Council consideration. He added an increase in infrastructure costs is anticipated over
the next few years, and the increase would probably be approximately $4-$5.
Councilmember Graves asked what the process would be. Mr. Reinhardt stated the resident
would receive a letter and have a chance to make their payment before it goes on their taxes. He
added when it is added to the tax bill; there would be an additional $50 charge.
Councilmember Graves stated she would support a higher threshold of $200.
Mayor Elliott asked whether residents would avoid certification if they miss the lst quarter but
pay at the end of the year. Mr. Boganey stated a notice would be sent that gives residents the
chance to avoid certification.
Councilmember Butler moved, and Councilmember Ryan seconded to open the Public Hearing.
Motion passed unanimously.
Mayor Elliott stated over 60% of residents have their delinquent utilities certified to taxes each
year. He asked what kinds of interactions besides the notice that the City sends. He stated the
City Council had discussed the possibility of monthly billing rather than quarterly billing. He
added the City could provide additional communication with residents.
Mr. Boganey stated the City's automated system identifies and notifies customers with abnormal
quarterly water or utility usage. He added a future system could allow residents to review utility
usage online throughout the quarter, to keep track. He added monthly billing is not
recommended due to potential increased administrative costs.
Councilmember Graves stated increasing the threshold to $200 would give residents extra time
before they go through the certification process.
A resident in the audience stated he agrees that the threshold should be raised to $200 or $250.
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Councilmember Graves moved, and Councilmember Ryan seconded to close the Public Hearing.
Motion passed unanimously.
Councilmember Graves moved, and Councilmember Ryan seconded to increase the certification
threshold to $200.
Motion passed unanimously.
Councilmember Ryan stated he appreciates Councilmember Graves' insight on this issue. He
added an increased threshold of $200 would give residents the opportunity to address a
delinquent quarter and provide some financial relief.
Councilmember Grave moved, and Councilmember Ryan seconded to adopt RESOLUTION
NO. 2019-124 Adopting Proposed Water Utility Rates as amended.
Motion passed unanimously.
Councilmember Ryan moved, and Councilmember Graves seconded to adopt the following:
• RESOLUTION NO. 2019-125 Adopting 2019 Sewer Utility Rates, Fees and Charges
• RESOLUTION NO. 2019-126 Adopting 2019 Storm Sewer Utility Rates, Fees and Charges
• RESOLUTION NO. 2019-127 Adopting 2019 Street Light Utility Rates, Fees and Charges
• RESOLUTION NO. 2019-128 Adopting 2019 Recycling Utility Rates, Fees and Charges
Motion passed unanimously.
8b. ORDINANCE NO 2019-09 ADOPTING A ZONING AMENDMENT REGARDING
THE CC CENTRAL COMMERCE OVERLAY DISTRICT — PLANNING
COMMISSION APPLICATION NO. 2019-014 (SECOND READING)
Mr. Boganey stated the City Council considered modifications to CC Central Commerce Overlay
District (CCOD), which is the area that generally includes Shingle Creek Crossing and the
Opportunity Site. He introduced Community Development Director Meg Beekman.
Ms. Beekman provided a review of the proposed zoning amendments to the CCOD District
related to allowed uses. She added the proposed amendments would bring the CCOD in closer
alignment with the 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
Ms. Beekman stated the CCOD is mostly Transit -Oriented Development (TOD) due to its
proximity to the transit station. She added zoning adjustments would be required. She noted
City Staff had included language that any changes proposed would not affect businesses
currently in operation in the CCOD unless they are discontinued for 12 months or more, and
there are not currently any businesses that would be prohibited.
Councilmember Graves moved, and Councilmember Ryan seconded to open the Public Hearing.
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Motion passed unanimously.
No one appeared to address this item.
Councilmember Graves moved, and Councilmember Butler seconded to close the Public
Hearing.
Motion passed unanimously.
Mayor Elliott asked why this temporary amendment is necessary. Ms. Beekman stated the Sears
property moratorium has expired and cannot be extended. She added this amendment would
eliminate certain kinds of redevelopment uses in the interim that may be detrimental to the
CCOD.
Councilmember Graves moved, and Councilmember Ryan seconded to adopt ORDINANCE
NO. 2019-09 Adopting a Zoning Amendment Regarding the CC Central Commerce Overlay
District — Planning Commission Application No. 2019-014 (Second Reading).
Motion passed unanimously.
Councilmember Graves moved, and Councilmember Ryan seconded to adopt RESOLUTION
NO. 2019-129 for Summary Publication in the Brooklyn Center Post.
Motion passed unanimously.
9. PLANNING COMMISSION ITEMS
9a. RECOMMENDED DISPOSITION OF PLANNING COMMISSION
APPLICATION NO. 2019-015 FOR ADOPTION OF A ZONING AMENDMENT
REGARDING USES ALLOWED IN THE GENERAL INDUSTRY (I-2)
DISTRICT — FIRST READING
Ms. Beekman reviewed a proposed Zoning Code amendment that would allow public assembly
use in the City's General Industry (I-2) District. A religious group is interested in purchasing
property at 4900 and 4902 France Avenue to relocate their community. They would like to stay
in the City of Brooklyn Center, and there are no other suitable properties available. Public
Assembly is currently not a permitted use in the I-2 District.
Ms. Beekman stated federal law protects religious uses and prohibits the imposition of additional
requirements that are not applied to similar uses. After a discussion between City Staff and the
City Attorney, a Zoning Code text amendment is the most legally defensible way forward.
Ms. Beekman stated the City Council reviewed this issue on August 12, 2019, and directed City
Staff to draft an amendment for review by the Planning Commission.
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Ms. Beekman stated the City's I-2 District consists of approximately 82 acres, approximately 72
acres of which are re -developable, or 2% of Brooklyn Center. She added this is a unique
property in the I-2 District with two buildings, which is why it is available, and why this group is
interested in it. She noted religious uses tend to utilize their facilities outside of industrial
business hours although existing parking at this location is not sufficient.
Ms. Beekman stated the new building would require updated fire suppression, adherence to
building and fire codes and compliance with ADA requirements, including parking lot striping,
signage, improvements, and an elevator or lift.
Ms. Beelcman stated a lengthy public hearing was held at the Planning Commission meeting on
September 12, 2019, at which members of the religious community spoke in support of the
religious use. They expressed a desire to create a place where the community can gather, and the
congregation could be bussed in from another location. A resident expressed concern about the
loss of property taxes due to a religious institution utilizing an industrial property.
Ms. Beekman stated Planning Commission Chair Christensen expressed concern about amending
an entire district to accommodate one property. There were general questions about parking
requirements. The vote was 4-1 in favor of the amendment. City staff recommends approval of
the first reading of the Ordinance amending Chapter 35 of City Code.
Councilmember Butler asked whether the property is currently vacant. Ms. Beekman stated she
does not believe the property is currently being used. An audience member stated the round
building is vacant.
Councilmember Lawrence -Anderson asked whether the religious community has the financial
capability of making the necessary upgrades related to ADA compliance and fire and building
code compliance. Ms. Beekman stated the City Planner has met with the religious group and
their realtor and toured the building with them. She added the building official had provided a
memo for them with the necessary building changes, and they are aware of the building and fire
code requirements.
Councilmember Butler stated she is fully in support of the mosque. She added they are a part of
the Brooklyn Center community. She noted they have operated in small spaces with limited
parking, and they will be fine at this property.
Councilmember Graves moved, and Councilmember Ryan seconded to Approve Planning
Commission Application No. 2019-015 For Adoption of a Zoning Amendment Regarding Uses
Allowed in the General Industry (I-2) District — First Reading.
Motion passed unanimously.
10. COUNCIL CONSIDERATION ITEMS
10a. PRELIMINARY 2020 PROPERTY TAX LEVY AND BUDGET
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Mr. Boganey stated City Council consideration is requested of the 2020 Property Tax Levy and
Budget. The final budget will be presented to the City Council in December 2019 and can be
reduced but cannot be increased above the maximum amount approved at tonight's meeting.
Mr. Reinhardt reviewed the preliminary levy increase of 5.87%, and the Housing and
Redevelopment Authority levy, based on a percentage of market value increase of 8.7%. He
added a balanced budget is proposed, although administrative functions have increased. He
noted the proposed budget includes staff enhancements including Full -Time positions in
Community Development and Human Resources that were previously part-time.
Mr. Reinhardt stated most residents had seen their home values consistently increase for the past
six years. He added home values had increased 7.6% since 2018 and 73% since 2014.
Mr. Reinhardt stated two separate resolutions are proposed for the tax levy and budget
preparation for final adoption in December 2019. He added preliminary tax statements are based
on what is approved at tonight's meeting.
Councilmember Graves thanked City Staff and the Finance Commission for their hard work, and
for explaining the levy in an understandable way. She added City Council goals were met while
maintaining necessary items based on public trust. Councilmember Lawrence -Anderson agreed.
Mayor Elliott stated the City's residents feel that their home values continue to increase, and it is
difficult to be financially prudent while balancing priorities for the City of Brooklyn Center. He
thanked City Staff for their hard work on the budget, although it is higher than he would like.
Mayor Elliott requested consideration of evaluating which programs and services are offered that
may not be successful and could be eliminated. He expressed his hope that the City Council can
do that before the final budget is approved. He noted his concern that the City of Brooklyn
Center has the highest tax rate in its peer group while many residents are on a fixed income.
Mayor Elliott stated it is challenging that the City continues to increase property taxes. He
expressed the need for a process to identify areas that are not necessary or not working on
trimming the budget.
Councilmember Ryan stated the City is audited annually by a CPA firm, as required by State
law. He added they assess that the City's tax increases are driven by extraordinarily high public
safety costs, which is the City's primary focus. He noted he believes City Staff and the City
Council are good stewards of the City's assets while working hard to increase the industrial and
commercial tax base.
Councilmember Graves stated while she would support looking at ways to do better, she also
understands the importance of public safety. She added there is a very small average percentage
of a tax increase for the typical household of $59. She noted she thinks it is a good budget.
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Councilmember Lawrence -Anderson stated the City is focused on multi -family residential
redevelopment and bringing in businesses. She added, in her opinion, the City will be able to
reduce the tax burden to the single-family home in the coming years.
Councilmember Graves moved, and Councilmember Ryan seconded to adopt RESOLUTION
NO. 2019-130 Approving a Preliminary Tax Capacity Levy for the General Fund and Debt
Service Funds and a Market Value Tax Levy for the Housing and Redevelopment Authority for
Property Taxes Payable in 2020.
Mayor Elliott voted against the same. Motion passed.
Councilmember Ryan moved, and Councilmember Lawrence -Anderson seconded to approve
RESOLUTION NO. 2019-131 Adopting a Preliminary Budget for the 2020 Fiscal Year.
Mayor Elliott voted against the same. Motion passed.
10b. OFFICE OF THE MAYOR
Councilmember Ryan stated he withdrew this item from the Consent Agenda as it is a
controversial issue and further discussion is required. He added, given the late hour and other
pending agenda items, he would support tabling this item to the October 28, 2019, Regular
Session meeting.
Councilmember Ryan moved, and Councilmember Lawrence -Anderson seconded to table
discussion on the Office of the Mayor until the October 28, 2019, Regular Session.
Councilmember Butler stated she would like to make a motion that the City Council vote on this
issue at tonight's meeting.
Mayor Elliott stated Councilmember Ryan's motion is still on the floor.
Councilmember Graves stated the concern is not so much for the office itself as it is for the
significance of power within the governing process and providing an office for the Mayor is a
symbol of that concern. She added she does not wish to discuss it further, but the concern should
be addressed, and the issue of whether the Mayor should have an office is not the best way to
have the discussion.
Councilmember Ryan stated the issue was settled by the City Council on February 11, 2019, and
he does not support the way that it was subsequently handled. He added a concise and respectful
discussion is necessary. He expressed the importance of the City Council working together as a
team.
Mayor Elliott stated other mayors, including the Mayor of Columbia Heights, have told him that
they have offices. He added he would work more efficiently and do a better job of being an
effective Mayor for the City's residents.
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Councilmember Graves stated the City Council should move forward with a decision tonight and
follow up with a discussion regarding the City Council's role as it relates to the City Charter.
City Attorney Troy Gilchrist stated a vote is required for the motion on the table.
Mayor Elliott and Councilmembers Butler and Graves voted against the same. Motion failed.
Councilmember Graves requested an amendment to Councilmember Butler's motion requiring a
City Council review of this issue at an upcoming Work Session. Councilmember Butler agreed.
Councilmember Butler moved, and Councilmember Graves seconded to approve the Mayor's
Request for an Office, with the condition that this issue is reviewed at an upcoming Work
Session. Councilmember Butler agreed.
Councilmembers Lawrence -Anderson and Ryan voted against the same. Motion carried.
11. COUNCIL REPORT
The City Council agreed to forego their reports in the interests of time.
12. ADJOURNMENT
Councilmember Graves moved, and Councilmember Butler seconded adjournment of the City
Council meeting at 10:13 p.m.
Motion passed unanimously.
STATE OF MINNESOTA)
COUNTY OF HENNEPIN) ss. Certification of Minutes
CITY OF BROOKLYN CENTER)
The undersigned, being the duly qualified and appointed City Cleric 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 September 23, 2019.
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 October 14, 2019, Regular Session.
Barbara Su City Cleric
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Mike Elliott, Mayor