HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC September 18, 2001
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CITY OF ANDOVER W1ltttn ~Zp),
1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEY ARD N. W. . ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 . (763) 755-5100
FAX (763) 755-8923. WWW.CI.ANDOYER.MN.US
Regular City Council Meeting - Tuesday, September 18,2001
Call to Order-7:00 PM
Resident Forum
Agenda Approval
Approval of Minutes (8/28/01) (9/4/01)
Consent Items
I. Approve Tax Increment Debt Service Transfer - Finance
2. Utilization of Proceeds/Carlos Avery Fire/200l Budget Adjustment - Finance
3. Adopt Proclamation - Domestic Violence Awareness Month for October 200 I - Administration
4. Consider Proposed 2002 Quad Cities Cable Commission Budget - Administration
5. Receive AMM Housing and Economic Development Policy Recommendations - Administration
6. Accept Public Facility Use Policy - Administration
7. Accept Feasibility Report/Waive Public Hearing/01-20/Devonshire Estates - Engineering
8. Accept Feasibility Report/Waive Public Hearing/01-23/3408 - 142"d Avenue NW/WM - Engineering
9. Approve Change Order # 1/00-37 /Townhomes of Woodland Creek - Engineering
10. Approve Resolution Accepting Street & Utilities/North Valley Ridge - Engineering
I I. Approve Plans & Specs/00-1717m A venue Trail - Engineering
12. Declare Cost/Order Assessment RoIV99-37/1680 Andover Boulevard NWIWM & SS - Engineering
13. Declare Cost/Order Assessment RoIVOI-81732 - 140m Lane NWIWM & SS - Engineering
14. Approve Quote/00-36/Makah Street NW & 149'h Lane NW/Storm Sewer Repair - Engineering
15. Accept Resignation/Park & Recreation CommissionlDavid O'Toole - Engineering
16. Approve Appointment/Park & Recreation Commission - Engineering
17. Approve Amended Special Use Permit (Ol-07)/Mining Permit/I 6689 Hanson Blvd. NW - Planning
17a. Authorize Relocation Payment-Eminent Domain Land Acquisition/Water Treatment Plant-Administration
17b. Approve Purchase/Aerial Bucket Truck - Finance
Discussion Items
18. Approve Amended SUP/PUD/Alternate Townhome DesignlNature's Run Cont. - Planning
19. Receive Anoka County Sheriff Department Monthly Report - Administration
20. Acknowledge Zoning Code Staff Enforcement Guidelines - Administration
2 I. Winslow Hills Neighborhood Project - Request for City Assistance - Administration
22. Approve Amendment tq Ordinance No. 219, An Ordinance Regulating and Controlling Weeds and
Other Harmful Vegetation - Planning
22a. Andover Baseball Association - Presentation - Administration
Staff Items
23. Schedule W orkshop/Transportation Issues - Administration
24. Schedule EDA Meeting - Community Development
25. Special Council Meeting-Dates-Scheduling and Confirmation
Mavor/Council
26a. Bill's Superette - Planning
b. Ultralite Update - Planning
c. Executive Session
I. Woodland Development Corporation Litigation
Payment of Claims
Adjournment
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REGULAR ANDOVER CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES - SEPTEMBER 18, 1001
TABLE OF CONTENTS
AGENDA APPROV AL............................................................................................................ I
APPROVAL OF MINUTES.....................................................................................................2
CONSENT AGENDA
Approve Tax Increment Debt Service Transfer ...................................................................2
Consider proposed 2002 Quad Cities Cable Commission budget .......................................2
Receive AMM Housing and Economic Development Policy recommendation.................. 2
Accept Public Facility Use Policy........................................................................................ 2
Resolution R134-01 accepting feasibility/Waiving public hearing/01-20/Devonshire ....... 2
Resolution RI35-01 accepting feasibility/Waiving public hearing/01-2113408 142nd
A venue/W atermain ......................................................................................................... 2
Resolution RI36-01 approving change order #1I00-37ffownhomes of Woodland Creek.. 2
Resolution RI37-01 accepting street and utilities/North Valley Ridge............................... 2
Resolution R138-01 approving plans and specs/00-17/Seventh A venue TraiL.................. 2
Resolution R139-01 declaring cost/Ordering assessment rolV99-37/1680 Andover
BoulevardlWatermain and sanitary sewer ...................................................................... 2
Resolution R140-01 declaring cost/Ordering assessment ro1V01-81732 I 40th Lane/
Watermain and sanitary sewer ........................................................................................ 2
Approve quote/00-36/Makah Street and 149th Lane/Storm sewer repair............................. 2
Authorize relocation payment - Eminent domain land acquisitionIW ater treatment plant. 2
Approve purchase/Aerial bucket truck ................................................................................ 2
UTILIZATION OF PROCEEDS/CARLOS AVERY FIRE/2001 BUDGET ADJUSTMENT 2
Motion to approve ................................................................................................................ 3
PROCLAMATION - DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH/OCTOBER 2001
Resolution R141-01 proclaiming October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month......... 3
ACCEPT RESIGNA TION/P ARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION/DA VID O'TOOLE
M . .. 3
otlOn to accept resIgnatIOn............................................. ...................................................
APPOINTMENT/PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION
Motion to appoint Chris DeLaForest to Commission until December 31, 2002 ................. 3
AMENDED SPECIAL USE PERMIT (01-07)/MINING PERMIT/I6689 HANSON BLVD
Resolution RI42-01 approving the amended Special Use Permit....................................... 4
AMENDED SPECIAL USE PERMIT/PUD/ALTERNATE TOWNHOME DESIGN/
NATURE'S RUN
Motion to table to next meeting ........................................................................................... 4
RRECEIVE ANOKA COUNTY SHERIFF DEPARTMENT MONTHLY REPORT ............ 5
ACKNOWLEDGE ZONING CODE STAFF ENFORCEMENT GUIDELINES.................... 5
Motion to approve the policy ............................................................................................... 6
AMENDMENT TO ORDINANCE NO. 219, AN ORDINANCE REGULATING AND
CONTROLLING WEEDS AND OTHER HARMFUL VEGETATION............................ 6
ANDOVER BASEBALL ASSOCIATION - PRESENTATION ............................................ 7
SCHEDULE WORKSHOPffRANSPORT A TION ISSUES
Motion to set Tuesday, October 23, 7 p.m., for workshop on transportation issues............ 9
SCHEDULE EDA MEETING
Motion to scheduled an EDA meeting on Tuesday, October 2, 6:00 p.m. .......................... 9
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Regular Andover City Council Meeting Minutes - September 18, 2001
Table a/Contents
Page ii
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING - DATES - SCHEDULING AND CONFIRMATION
Motion to confirm Council work session on September 19, 6 p.m. .................................... 9
Motion to schedule Strategic Planning Workshop on Tuesday, November 13, 7 p.m. ....... 9
Motion to confirrnjoint meeting with Coon Rapids City Council on Thursday, Oct 25..... 9
MAYOR/COUNCIL INPUT
Bill's Superette.................................................................................................................... I 0
UltraIite update.................................................................................................................... I 0
Newsletter ........................................................................................................................... 11
PAYMENT OF CLAIMS ........................................................................................................ 11
ADJOURNMENT..,.......,......................................................................................................... 12
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CITY of ANDOVER
REGULAR ANDOVER CITY COUNCIL MEETING -SEPTEMBER 18, 2001
MINUTES
The Regular Bi-MonthIy Meeting of the Andover City Council was called to order by Mayor Mike
Gamache, September IS, 2001, 7:00 p.m., at the Andover City Hall, 1685 Crosstown Boulevard
NW, Andover, Minnesota.
Councilmembers present: Don Jacobson, Mike Knight, Ken Orttel, Julie Trude
Councilmembers absent: None
Also present: City Attorney, Barry Sullivan
City Engineer, Scott Erickson
City Finance Director, Jim Dickinson
Community Development Director, Dave Carlberg
City Administrator, John Erar
Others
Mayor Gamache asked for a moment of silence to honor those who were killed a week ago in New
York City and Washington, DC, to show support to those police, fire fighters and volunteers who are
working there, and to show support for the military and leaders of the country in the upcoming
events.
AGENDA APPROVAL
Remove from Consent Items for discussion: Item 2, Utilization ofProceedslCarlos Avery Fire/200 I
Budget Adjustment; Item 3, Adopt Proclamation - Domestic Violence Awareness Month for
October 200 I; Item 15, Accept ResignationlPark and Recreation CommissionlDavid O'Toole; Item
16, Approve Appointrnent/Park and Recreation Commission; Item 17, Approve Amended Special
Use Permit (01-07)/Mining Permit/l6689 Hanson Boulevard NW. Table Item 21, Winslow Hills
Neighborhood Project - Request for City Assistance, at the request of the citizen group.
Council asked about the use for the aerial bucket truck requested in Item 17b. Mr. Erickson stated it
will be used predominantly for tree trimming, bulb replacement and other projects. Council noted in
Item 7, Devonshire Estates, the utilities are to be installed by a private contractor and asked if that is
a change in policy. Mr. Erickson stated Staff is recommending that change. It is a very small
development The expenses would exceed project costs for the City to do it. It is a unique situation
that has never been encountered by the City before.
Motion by Trude, Seconded by Jacobson, to approve the amended Agenda. Motion carried
unanimously.
Regular Andover City Council Meeting
Minutes - September 18, 2001
Page 2
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
August 28, 2001, Special Council Meeting: Corrections as noted by Staff.
September 4, 2001, Regular Meeting: Page I, second paragraph, correct spelling of "Kim Mellem".
Motion by Knight, Seconded by Jacobson, approval of the August 28 Minutes. Motion carried
unanimously.
Motion by Jacobson, Seconded by Trude, approval of the September 4 Meeting Minutes. Motion
carried on a 4- Yes, I-Present (Orttel) vote.
CONSENT AGENDA
Item I Approve Tax Increment Debt Service Transfer
Item 4 Consider Proposed 2002 Quad Cities Cable Commission Budget
Item 5 Receive AMM Housing and Economic Development Policy Recommendations
Item 6 Accept Public Facility Use Policy
Item 7 Accept Feasibility Report/Waive Public Hearing/01-20/Devonshire Estates (See
Resolution RI34-01)
Item 8 Accept Feasibility ReportlWaive Public Hearing/O 1-23/3408 I42nd A venue
NWlWaterrnain (See Resolution R135-01)
Item 9 Approve Change Order #IIOO-37ffownhomes of Woodland Creek (See Resolution
RI36-01)
Item 10 Approve Resolution Accepting Street and UtilitiesINorth Valley Ridge (See Resolution
RI37-01)
Item II Approve Plans and Specs/00-17/Seventh Avenue Trail (See Resolution RI38-01)
Item 12 Declare Cost/Order Assessment Ro1I/99-3 7/1680 Andover Boulevard NW IW aterrnain
and Sanitary Sewer (See Resolution RI39-01)
Item 13 Declare Cost/Order Assessment Roll/O 1-8/732 l40th Lane NW lWaterrnain and Sanitary
Sewer (See Resolution RI40-01)
Item 14 Approve Quote/00-36/Makah Street NW and 149th Lane NW/Storrn Sewer Repair
Item 17a Authorize Relocation Payment - Eminent Domain Land Acquisition/W ater Treatment
Plant
Item 17b Approve Purchase/Aerial Bucket Truck
Motion by Trude, Seconded by Knight, approval of the Consent Agenda as read. Motion carried
unanimously.
UTILIZATION OF PROCEEDS/CARLOS A VERY FIRE/1001 BUDGET ADJUSTMENT
Councilmember Trude asked if there will be enough money left in the budget to perhaps increase the
pay for the fire fighters, which was discussed during the budget process. Possibly the money received
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Regular Andover City Council Meeting
Minutes - September 18, 2001
Page 3
(Utilization of Proceeds/Carlos Avery Fire/2001 Budget Adjustment, Continued)
for labor for the Carlos A very wildfires can be used for a pay adjustment. Mr. Dickinson stated those
dollars that are not used will be set aside in the fund balance, and the Council can elect to use that
fund balance or reallocate them in the budget. Councilmember Orttel stated the Council had asked
for a report comparing the contributions the City makes to the fire fighters for pay and toward
pension with what other cities do. He agreed this could then be discussed at a future workshop. Mr.
Dickinson stated this item can be brought back for Council review but suggested making no
modifications to the budget before the end of the year.
Motion by Trude, Seconded by Jacobson, approval as presented by Staff (approve a2001 General
Fund expenditure budget adjustment to Fire Protection in the amount of $17,000 for purchasing
needed equipment for the Fire Department). Motion carried unanimously.
ADOPT PROCLAMATION - DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH FOR
OCTOBER 1001
Mayor Gamache read the proclamation declaring October of2001 Domestic Violence Awareness
Month.
Motion by Orttel, Seconded by Knight, that the City Council support the Resolution on Domestic
Violation Awareness Month (See Resolution RI41-01). Motion carried unanimously.
ACCEPT RESIGNATION/PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION/DA VID O'TOOLE
Mayor Gamache stated Mr. O'Toole has been on the Park Commission for a number of years and has
been very involved in many projects, including the building of Sunshine Park. He suggested that a
plaque be presented on behalf of the City to honor Mr. O'Toole at the next Council meeting.
Councilmember Knight suggested at the beginning of a future workshop that the Council do an exit
interview. The Council agreed.
Motion by Trude, Seconded by Orttel, to accept Mr. O'Toole's resignation. Motion carried
unanimously.
APPROVE APPOINTMENT/PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION
Council noted Chris DeLaForest was appointed as an alternate when interviews for the Park and
Recreation Commission were conducted earlier this year.
Motion by Jacobson, Seconded by Knight, to appoint Chris DeLaForest to fill the term of David
O'Toole until December 31, 2002. Motion carried unanimously.
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Regular Andover City Council Meeting
Minutes - September 18, 2001
Page 4
APPROVE AMENDED SPECIAL USE PERMIT (01-07)/MINING PERMIT/16689 HANSON
BOULEVARDNW
Councilmember Jacobson stated in 1989 the applicant was given a permit. Another one was granted
in 1991 and extended to 1996. Now he is asking for another five-year permit, which would be 20
years of mining. That disturbed him, suggesting this should be reviewed on an annual basis. He
didn't think there were any other permits that have been extended for 20 years. Councilmember
Orttel stated this person is mining on a small scale, not like those taking out all the dirt for a highway
project. The dirt is being sold, and he saw no reason to rush this. It seems much better to have it over
the 20 years. There have been no complains, so why should the applicant have to come back every
year.
Mr. Carlberg stated this was a two-year permit in 1989. A ponding area is being created and the dirt
is being removed. The City does an annual inspection, and he has always been in compliance. There
have been no complaints. The grading has not yet reached the point of completing the originally
approved grading plan, and that is why the applicant is asking for another five-year extension. It is a
very small-time operation. Two acres is being mined, and it is not visible from Hanson Boulevard.
The dirt is taken when it is needed. That is the nature of the business. Ifthere would be a violation of
the Permit, Staff would bring it to the Council to revoke it. Councilmember Knight suggested in the
future the Council be informed up front that it will be a smaller, slower operation.
Councilmember Trude noted the grading is very close to the pipeline easement. She wondered if the
pipeline company has seen this and approved it. Mr. Carlberg stated there are regulations of what he
can and cannot do regarding the pipeline easement. He didn't know if the pipeline company has been
notified, but Staff can notifY them of the close proximity. The grading is not in the easement area.
Motion by Orttel, Seconded by Knight, to approve Item 17 as presented with the addition that the
Staff notifY the gas company that there is excavation going on near its right-of-way line. (See
Resolution RI42-01) Motion carried on a 4- Yes, I-No (Jacobson) vote.
APPROVE AMENDED SPECIAL USE PERMIT/PUD/ALTERNATE TOWNHOME
DESIGN/NATURE'S RUN, CONTINUED
Motion by Jacobson, Seconded by Trude, to table this to the next meeting. DISCUSSION:
Councilmember Trude asked if the applicant has been notified that there will only be three
Councilmembers at the October 2 meeting. Mr. Carlberg stated Staff is attempting to notifY the
applicant that this year is lost for that project. Probably the next time this will be discussed will be
the one-year time period for preliminary plat approval which is in February. Councilmember
Jacobson pointed out that unless there is a request to extend this again on October 2, it cannot be
approved at that meeting. Motion carried unanimously.
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Regular Andover City Council Meeting
Minutes - September 18, 2001
Page 5
RECEIVE ANOKA COUNTY SHERIFF DEPARTMENT MONTHLY REPORT
Captain Dave King explained he will now be the City's liaison and provided a brief background of
his experience in law enforcement. He reported there were 1,775 calls in Andover in August
resulting in 845 incident reports, and he reviewed the number of calls for the various inrractions.
Noting the substantial increase in domestics, he stated they do not know the reason for it. Some
months are just higher than others. He didn't know if there were any more vehicle break-ins than
across the county. Many people leave things available. They have been working the areas that have
had a high number of those incidents. The bike patrols have been extremely successful, but that
service will be ending at the end of this month. However, they will arrange for patrols of areas along
the trails where there may be problems. Council had no further questions or comments.
ACKNOWLEDGE ZONING CODE STAFF ENFORCEMENT GUIDELINES
Mr. Eraf explained his office in collaboration with Mr. Carlberg and his Staff has developed written
guidelines to promote a more consistent, customer-friendly and defensible procedure in zoning code
enforcement actions. The guidelines are in place for the handling of complaints received by Staff and
those received by the Councilmembers.
Councilmember Knight questioned the procedure under Item 5, that all citation letters will be mailed
through regular dispatch, along with a certified copy of the letter to the property owner. It is
confusing, and the property owners often think they are being cited a second time when they received
the second letter. Attorney Hawkins agreed that is normal procedure to ensure that the property
owner receives the citation letter. After a brief Council discussion, it was suggested that one of the
letters clearly indicate that it is a duplicate letter, so it is not confused as an additional citation.
Under Item 2, Councilmember Trude understood the desire to receive complaints in writing and to
include a name and address, but there are valid reasons for people wanting to remain anonymous.
Mr. Erar explained the reason for the name and address is to make sure the Staff gets the basic
information as well as to be able to report back to them on the actions taken by the City. The
complaints are treated confidentially.
Councilmember Jacobson noted Item I that the code enforcement is only initiated in response to a
complaint except where the public health, welfare and safety are involved. He agreed with that
philosophy, but he felt the item as written leaves no room for Staff to act when the problem is
obvious but no one has complained. He had a problem with the inflexibility, that Staff will never
initiate code enforcement. Mr. Erar stated the policy has to be reactive, not proactive. He didn't think
the City wants to be in the situation of Staff initiating code enforcement. It puts Staffin the awkward
position of having to determine what violations to enforce and which ones to overlook.
Councilmember Orttel stated the item as written has been the rule in the City all along. Staff can
bring the item to the City Council if it feels there is a problem. Or they can call anyone of the
Councilmembers. If Staff is allowed to initiate code enforcement, the problem is where do they draw
the line. Now Staff will not get involved unless there is a complaint, or it is a health, safety or
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Regular Andover City Council Meeting
Minutes - September 18, 2001
Page 6
(Acknowledge Zoning Code Staff Enforcement Guidelines, Continued)
welfare issue. He was pleased to see this in writing and complemented the Staff. Mayor Gamache
agreed if Staff is allowed to initiate code enforcement, they ~e being asked to make judgments; and
it puts them in a precarious position of picking and choosing. Councilmember Trude liked that the
residents have to take a stand. If the neighborhood wants to tolerate a high level of ordinance
violation, that is their choice. Mr. Carlberg explained another reason for needing the name and
address of the person making the complaint is that Staff is not allowed to go on private property.
They can seek permission from the person who is complaining to view the violation from their
property. Staff does work with the property owner toward compliance and continues to work with
him as long as progress is being made.
Motion by Trude, Seconded by Orttel, approval of the policy. Motion carried on a 4- Yes, I-Present
(Jacobson because he doesn't like Item 1) vote.
APPROVE AMENDMENT TO ORDINANCE NO. 119,ANORDINANCE REGULATINGAND
CONTROLLING WEEDS AND OTHER HARMFUL VEGETATION
Mr. Carlberg explained the Council had asked the Planning and Zoning Commission to review the
ordinance to provide a distinction between lawn maintenance requirements for urban and rural lots
and to provide a penalty to discourage owners of vacant property to use the City as a mowing service.
The current lawn-maintenance ordinance requires all properties to maintain a grass height ofless
than twelve inches. There are many rural properties that are partially maintained and some that are
not maintained at all. It is unreasonable and undesirable to require property owners to mow several
acres on a regular basis, though they should be maintained so as to not cause a problem on adjacent
properties. In the urban area, smaller lots that are not maintained can quickly cause problems on
adjacent properties that are maintained. Of the 20 complaints regarding lawn maintenance this year,
most concerned urban lots. There are four properties that the City has exclusively and consistently
maintained over the past several years plus several others that it mows occasionally through the
enforcement process. The current Ordinance 106 requires adjacent property owners to maintain
boulevard areas in both the urban and rural areas.
Mr. Carlberg provided three different scenarios of how the proposed changes to the ordinance would
affect various lots in the rural area. There are exemptions for wetlands, storm water ponds, heavily
forested areas, etc. Many people are not mowing the boulevards, though the ordinance requires it.
Currently the City has been mowing them in the rural areas. The Council will have to determine
whether to continue that practice or to enforce Ordinance 106. Councilmember Knight indicated that
in some cases, it would require a tractor mower and could be a hardship on the land owner.
Mr. Carlberg stated maybe in those cases the policy of the City would be to continue to maintain
those areas, but on the platted 2Y2-acre lots, the owner would be required to maintain the boulevards.
Ordinance 106 is not before the Council this evening. Several Councilmembers had a concern with
requiring the property owner to maintain a 13- foot width in the boulevards in the rural areas and felt
that should be discussed further.
Regular Andover City Council Meeting
Minutes - September 18, 2001
Page 7
(Amendment to Ordinance No. 219, An Ordinance Regulating and Controlling Weeds and Other
Harmful Vegetation, Continued)
In discussing the three scenarios given, Mr. Carlberg noted that whether or not it is mowed in the
rural areas would not be an issue unless the City receives a complaint. Councilmember Orttel felt it
would be reasonable to require that the complaint be from an adjacent property owner. The Council
generally agreed but suggested the wording in the ordinance require that the complaint be from
someone who can visibly see the violation from their property. That could include not only an
adjacent property owner but someone who lives across the street.
Councilmember Jacobson questioned the definition of "grass". In Section 3, B, bushes would not be
allowed unless they were shorter than twelve inches. He asked that that be clarified.
Councilmember Orttel noted Section 3, C, I references Ordinance 106. Section 3, C, 3 has no
definition of what "lawn area" means.
Council referred the item back to Staff to include the modifications suggested this evening. This is to
be brought back to the Council at its October 16 regular meeting.
ANDOVER BASEBALL ASSOClATION -PRESENTATION
Larry Emmerich. 1341 16151 A venue - asked for the Council's support for a premises permit for
charitable gambling at Pov's for the Andover Baseball Association. This is something they feel
needs to be done right away. With the new high school coming in, they will be needing new
equipment and assistance in getting their sports off the ground. He is a Board Member of the
Association representing 700 youth. They are also concerned that there is only one baseball field in
the City, and they would like to have more fields. He felt the charitable gambling would be a
wonderful opportunity for the City of Andover to improve their youth facilities.
Kim Mellem. 13760 Zilla Street - noted a list of other Board Members of the Andover Baseball
Association. They are a committed group of individuals who are all volunteers. Chuck Schmidt has
been the treasurer since 1995 and was very involved with the committee to secure the new high
school. Five of the board members have been on the board for at least five years, so they have long-
term stability. She has had three years experience with charitable gambling through their hockey
association. The association has been non-profit since 1994. There has and continues to be
tremendous growth of the program. Their reason for wanting charitable gambling is for the children.
They began talking about this in August, 2000, and they are now ready to go. They have voted to
contribute at least 50 percent of the proceeds to the multi-sports complex. They would also look to
partner with the City to improve baseball fields and reduce participation costs, as well as contribute
to other Andover organizations. They would operate the program with a high degree of integrity and
wouldn't let the community down.
Regular Andover City Council Meeting
Minutes - September 18, 2001
Page 8
(Andover Baseball Association - Presentation, Continued)
Ms. Mellem stated they would like to start as soon as possible but need a premises permit fÌ'om Pov' s
to do so. The owner has been approached by three interested parties and doesn't want to make that
decision but instead wants a recommendation from the City. He is leery because of what has
happened in the past. There are two other organizations that have shown an interest, but they believe
Andover Baseball and their status to be the most reliable. They are asking for the City's support in
securing a premises permit at Pov's.
Council discussion was on the procedure. Attorney Hawkins stated normally the establishment
would offer the premises permit. Then the organization would come to the City for a
recommendation for a gambling license. The Council would make comments to the State based on
the minimum criteria of the ordinance. The State would then issue the gambling license. The
establishment must work with the group, so it should be making the decision of which group it wants
to issue a premises license. It becomes a business relationship. If the Council makes that decision, it
is taking on a lot more problems when it doesn't have the authority to issue the gambling license. Mr.
Erar also advised that by making a recommendation of one organization over another, there could be
significant misgivings in terms of allegations of favoritism. It was his opinion the bar owner needs to
make the decision to allow whatever group that meets the criteria into his establishment. He
recommended against making a recommendation in an attempt to minimize liability to the City and
the Council.
Councilmember Trude liked the quality of this board. AIl the proceeds would benefit the kids locally.
She worked with Chuck Schmidt who is a person of high integrity. She has been advised by the local
Charitable Gambling Manager that the City should make a recommendation. She is looking for a
quality group. She has no connection with this group other than meeting them in the community as a
volunteer. She sees quality here that is unmatched. Councilmember Knight liked the idea that they
have done their homework and are ready to go. All three groups are reputable, but the others have not
approached the Council. Councilmember Orttel noted the City doesn't have standards for this. If the
Council made a decision, it would be primarily political, and he was not sure this should be
politicized. However, they haven't seen any other proposals.
Mayor Gamache stated he knows people on the Board and has worked with Mr. Schmidt. They are a
well run organization and league. He also met with members of the Andover Athletic Association
and with the fire fighters. Both groups requested to talk to him and both have expressed an interest in
charitable gambling. He told them the same thing being said here tonight, that it is their
responsibility as an organization to get the premises license fÌ'om the bar owner. He felt all three
organizations fit the criteria in the ordinance, so all ofthem could be approved. He also met with the
bar owner. He told the owner that it was his decision to make. It is a business decision. The Mayor
stated he is not working for any organization but met with individuals at their request. He was not
sure if the other two organizations are as far along in the process as Andover Baseball.
Councilmember Orttel hoped that one of the considerations for the bar owner would be to get this up
and running as soon as possible. There are great people in all organizations. He likes what he sees
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Regular Andover City Council Meeting
Minutes - September 18, 2001
Page 9
(Andover Baseball Association - Presentation, Continued)
here but also noted he hasn't seen anything from the others. It appears the integrity and goals of this
organization are superb. He urged Andover Baseball to pursue this further as quickly as possible.
Frank Kellogg, Chair of the City of Andover Multi-Use Sports Complex Task Force - asked about
the legal ramifications of the Council making a decision. Based on what he's seen, the Task Force
has something to gain by this. If they move forward, money will be needed for plans. Supporting this
group would be a win-win situation. The Association is not asking the City to create a deal for them.
They are looking for a recommendation to give them the ability to go to Pov's with some assurance
that the City agrees that this organization is reputable. Attorney Hawkins again noted the Council
can make a recommendation, but he would advise against it because they don't have the authority to
make the decisions. The licensing is done by the State. He stated he would have to check the specific
language of the law on whether the City "approves" or "issues" the premises permit. Mr. Erar
advised from an administrative standpoint, it is not something the Council wants to assert itself
politically. It can create a perception in the community that certain groups are favored over others.
After further discussion, the Council generally agreed not to make a recommendation or to help in
the negotiations in obtaining a premises permit.
SCHEDULE WORKSHOPffRANSPORTATION ISSUES
Motion by Orttel, Seconded by Trude, to set Tuesday, October 23, 7 p.m. for a workshop on
transportation issues. Motion carried unanimously.
SCHEDULE EDA MEETING
Motion by Orttel, Seconded by Trude, to schedule an EDA meeting on Tuesday, October 2, 6:00
p.m. Motion carried unanimously.
SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING - DATES - SCHEDULING AND CONFIRMATION
Motion by Orttel, Seconded by Trude, to confirm the Council meeting work session tomorrow
evening, September 19, 6 0' clock (Team Building Workshop). Motion carried unanimously.
Motion by Trude, Seconded by Jacobson, to schedule the Council Strategic Planning Workshop on
Tuesday, November 13, 7 p.m. Motion carried unanimously.
Motion by Orttel, Seconded by Trude, to confirm ajoint meeting with the Coon Rapids City Council
on Thursday, October 25,2001. Motion carried unanimously.
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Regular Andover City Council Meeting
Minutes - September 18, 2001
Page 10
(Schedule Council Meeting - Dates - Scheduling and Confirmation, Continued)
Mayor Gamache reported the Mayor of Anoka has expressed an interest in scheduling a joint
meeting. Council discussion was to consider that meeting the first part of next year, in either January
or February.
M4YOR/COUNCIL INPUT
Bill's Superette - Council noted the memorandum ITom Mr. Carlberg regarding the history and status
ofthe Bill's Superette property located at the southeast corner of Hanson Boulevard and 139th. He
stated Staff is trying to get information on the current plans for that site. To initiate a rezoning to
Limited Business would not change the use that is being proposed. Attorney Hawkins advised the
owners have a vested right to continue with their plans. The more time that expires, the less that
claim has merit. The issue is the Special Use Permit for the propane tanks and not for the use itself.
Councilmember Orttel agreed it would still be a business area if rezoned. The problem is the
proposal of a big 24-hour supermarket. Mr. Carlberg stated he will continue his attempt to contact
the owners to get an update of their plans for the area.
Ultralite Update - Mr. Carlberg explained the City and Sheriffs Office have received complains
relating to ultralite planes in the area of 146th and Prairie Road. Staff has provided the existing
regulations for ultralite vehicles, which are regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration.
Prohibited and restricted areas refer specifically to air space and are typically associated with air
bases or established flight zones. They cannot be operated over any congested area of a city, town or
settlement or over any open air assembly of persons. There is currently no specific definition for
congested areas, though the FAA believes they do include suburban residential neighborhoods where
it would be difficult or impossible for a vehicle to make an emergency landing. Mr. Carlberg also
noted it is possible that the continuous takeoffs could constitute a violation of the noise ordinance.
Dave Beckstrom. Flight Instructor. 16135 Vintage Street. Andover - stated this is not done as a
commercial enterprise. It is private. They follow FAA regulations, and there is nothing that prohibits
them from flying in that area. They spoke to the people in that area and no one had any issues.
Typically there are two to three residents waiting to watch them land and who express an interest in
watching them. Generally they fly only two hours in the evening when there is a wind of 10 mph,
possibly two to three times per week. Normally they circle the field to climb to 500 feet and then
head north where there is another sod field or west to the park. There is a residential area to the east
with mature oak trees, so they try to avoid that area. If they knew who is complaining, they would
try to avoid those areas. The property used is about 35 acres.
Christine and Adam Winarczvk. 14942 Evergreen Street. Andover - moved to a quiet residential
area and the noise ITom the ultralite planes have turned their quiet neighborhood into an airport. She
asked that the Council pass an ordinance to prohibit the takeoff and landing of these ultraIite vehicles
right behind their home. They are also concerned with the safety because they fly so low. They don't
want one of these flying into their deck. They have seen as many as eight on any given evening. The
Regular Andover City Council Meeting
Minutes - September 18, 2001
Page 11
(Mayor/Council Input - Ultralight Update, Continued)
noise is so loud they carmot even talk in their yard. It is a very high intensity sound directly over their
houses. Their children carmot sleep at night. Their neighbors are furious, but they didn't know this
was going to be on the Agenda this evening or they would have been here also. When she called
about the regulations, the person wasn't surprised the City did not have an ordinance. Most cities
don't unless there is an accident. She asked that Andover be pro-active in regulating these vehicles.
Also, she was told that according to City ordinance, unless it is specifically allowed, it would not be
allowed. Many of their neighbors support their position and want to see this activity prohibited. Mr.
Winarczyk stated they even fly after sunset.
Dean Clossey. 2715 134th - noted he owns the property that is used for takeoff and landing of these
vehicles. He wondered how many complaints there have been. He stated Ham Lake has numerous
private air strips. There is no licensing or prohibition of ultralite vehicles. If Andover does prohibit
them, they could still take off in Ham Lake and fly over Andover air space. They fly at 30 mph and
carmot fly at night because they have no lights. The planes do not hover over an area, nor do they
buzz over anyone's house. They are trying to fix the problem. Now they carmot fly because ofthe
terrorist activities last week. They probably will not fly again until next spring or unless they open up
the air space again for ultralite planes.
Mr. Beckstrom stated they could fly to the north and avoid their houses completely. They need to do
a better job of letting their people know that. They have only had four people up at one time. He
denied that they ever had eight people up at one time. Councilmember Orttel didn't feel that safety
was a big concern, but the noise is armoying.
Councilmember Jacobson felt if it is to be regulated, it would most likely be done under a Special
Use Permit. The takeoff and landing is not governed by the FAA, so that might be something the
City could do. He asked that that be researched. Attorney Hawkins stated criteria could be set up as
is done for any other use. Councilmember Trude thought possibly the use could be limited to the
property owner and/or immediate family and guests or limit it two one or two individuals with
notification.
After further discussion, Mr. Carlberg stated Staff will ask the FAA what direction the City can take
and have them investigate the situation. Then, if the Council is interested, Staff can look at the
zoning regulations of the landing and takeoff and decide which direction to take. He will report back
to the Council at the next meeting.
Newsletter- Councilmember Trude asked people let her know if they have some topic that should be
addressed in the upcoming newsletter.
PAYMENT OF CLAIMS
Motion by Knight, Seconded by Trude, the payment of Claims. Motion carried unanimously.
- ~.....
Regular Andover City Council Meeting
Minutes - September 18, 2001
Page 12
The meeting was recessed to hold an Executive Session with the City Attorney regarding the
Woodland Development lawsuit, 10:07; reconvened at 10:28 p.m. .
Motion by Jacobson, Seconded by Trude, to adjourn. Motion carried unanimously.
The meeting adjourned at 10:30 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
\¥\~ Cx;:) ~
Marcella A. Peach
Recording Secretary
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