HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC June 16, 1998
CITY of ANDOVER
1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD NW. . ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304. (612) 755-5100.
Regular City Council Meeting - June 16, 1998 agenda
Call to Order - 7:00 PM
Resident Forum Bookmark
Agenda Approval Name
Approval of Minutes minutes
EDA Meeting
Discussion Items
1. Pov's Sports Bar Noise Test Results noise
2. Approve Driveway License AgreemenU97-43/1171 & 1155-140th Lane appr9743
3. Discuss Curbs in Rural Areas curbs
4. Discuss Ordinance 10, Section 9.07.6/Park Dedication ord10
5. Use of Park IncidentfTom Basara/Resident/Andover Baseball basara
6. ICMA Conference icma
7. City of Ramsey Public Hearing Results/Slow-No-Wa~e Ordinance ramsey
HRA MeetinQ
8. Public Hearing/Reallocation of 1995 Social Service Funds phearing
Consent/Non-Discussion Items
9. Approve Feasibility Report/98-13/Fox Meadows appr9813
10. Approve Bids/Painting of Old Public Works Building apprpw
11. Approve Temporary Non-Intox. Liquor License/Lions Club/Fun Fest liquor
12. Approve Bingo PermiUAndover Baseball/Fun Fest bingo
13. Approve Extension of Liquor License/Pov's Sports Bar liqpovs
14. Approve Sale of Pulltabs/Lions Club/Fun Fest pulltabs
15. Approve Junkyard License/Anoka Auto Wrecking junkyard
16. Approve Amendment to Ordinance 101 ord101
17. Approve Ordinance 228A1Swimming Pools ord228a
18. Approve Garbage Hauler Licenses garbage
19. Approve Recycling Agreement w/Anoka County recycle
20. Approve Assignment and Pledge of Securities at Norwest Banks norwest
21. Approve Change Order #1 to Project 97-44 (Shadowbrook 3rd Addn.)/ co1971
Trunk Watermain for Project 97-1 (Andover Blvd./Weybridge 3rd Addn.)
Mayor/Council Input
Payment of Claims
Adiournment
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REGULAR ANDOVER CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES - JUNE 16,1998
TABLE OF CONTENTS
RESIDENT FORUM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1
AGENDA APPROVAL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 4
APPROVAL OF MINUTES ................................................... 4
CONSENT AGENDA
Resolution RI 11-98 approving feasibility reportJIP98-13/Fox Meadows. . . . . . . . . ., 4
Approve bids/Painting of Old Public Works Building ......................... 4
Approve Temporary Non-Intoxicating Liquor LicenseILions Club/Fun Fest. . . . . . .. 4
Approve Bingo Permit! Andover BasebalVFun Fest ........................... 4
Approve Extension of Liquor License/Pov's Sports Bar. . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 4
Resolution R112-98 approving sale ofPulltabslLions Club/Fun Fest. . . . . . . . . . . . .. 4
Approve Junkyard License/Anoka Auto Wrecking. . . . " . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . " . . .. 4
Approve Amendment to Ordinance 101 .................................... 4
Approve Ordinance 228A./Swimming Pools ................................ 4
Approve Garbage Hauler Licenses ........................................ 4
Approve Cycling Agreement with Anoka County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 4
Approve Assignment and Pledge of Securities at Norwest Banks ................ 4
Resolution RI13-98 approving Change Order #1 to Project 97-44 & IP97-1 ........ 4
POV'S SPORTS BAR NOISE TEST RESULTS. . . . .. .. .. . . . .. . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 5
DRIVEWAY LICENSE AGREEMENT/IP97-43/1171 AND 1155 140TH LANE. . . . . . . .. 6
Motion to approve ..................................................... 7
USE OF PARK INCIDENTrrOM BASARAlRESIDENT/ANDOVER BASEBALL. . . . . .. 7
DISCUSS CURBS IN RURAL AREA ........................................... 9
DISCUSS ORDINANCE 10, SECTION 9.07.6/PARK DEDICATION
Motion to list 3 to 5 appraisers .........................................., 9
ICMA CONFERENCE
Motion to approve Mr. Fursman's attendance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 10
CITY OF RAMSEY PUBLIC HEARING RESULTS/SLOW -NO-WAKE ORDINANCE. .. 10
MAYOR/COUNCIL INPUT
Cars "For Sale" along the roads. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . " 11
Referendum in Woodbury - open spaces. . .. . . . . .. . . . .. . . .. . . . . . . . .. .. . . . '" 11
Sidewalks along Crooked Lake Boulevard .................................. 11
Meet with the P & Z and Comprehensive Plan Task Force (July 28) .............. 11
APPROVAL OF CLAIMS .................................................... 12
ADJOURNMENT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . " 12
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CITY of ANDOVER
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING - JUNE 16,1998
MINUTES
The Regular Bi-Monthly Meeting of the Andover City Council was called to order by Mayor Jack
McKelvey, June 16, 1998,7:03 p.m., at the Andover City Hall, 1685 Crosstown Boulevard NW,
Andover, Minnesota.
Councilmembers present: Bonnie Dehn, Mike Knight, John Kunza, Ken Orttel
Councilmembers absent: None
Also present: City Attorney, Wìl1iam G. Hawkins
Assistant City Engineer, Todd Haas
City Code Enforcer, Jeff Johnson
Community Development Director, Dave Carlberg
City Administrator, Richard Fursman
Others
The meeting was recessed to hold an EDA meeting, 7:03; reconvened at 7:51
RESIDENT FORUM
John Zìl1hardt. 3753 l45th Avenue - had a complaint about the speed bumps in place from l43rd
Avenue to l47th. He felt the use of speed bumps is over kilL While there is a speeding problem
through there, speeding is not just a problem in Andover. He has a legitimate use to drive from his
land, which is in an adjoilÚng neighborhood, through that area to get to the Anoka Senior High
SchooL One of the arguments against the speed bumps is that they infringe on those law abiding
citizens who have a legitimate use of those streets. They pay taxes for street maintenance and law
enforcement, and barricading the area unfairly punishes them. He also has a concern with his son
and other children who ride their bikes down the streets and now have to maneuver over those speed
bumps. It can be a dangerous situation. Another issue could be emergency vehicles having to
negotiate the speed bumps when seconds are important. He has difficultly driving over them with
his vehicle, and he assumed it would be even more difficult to do so with the large emergency
vehicles. He also questioned the effectiveness of the speed bumps, as he has noted that people have
learned that the faster the vehicle is going, the easier it is to get over them. The speed limits are too
high, as he grew up in areas where it was 25 mph. He is not one of the offenders and has a legitimate
right to use the road. Another permanent stop sign placed in the middle of the block would help
some of the speeding problems. Or maybe it is time to look at adding additional police officers to
ticket the offenders. He hoped the Council decides to take them out as soon as possible.
Mayor McKelvey explained those speed bumps are temporary and will be removed in about two
weeks. He reviewed the law enforcement efforts made to address the speeding problem through
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Regular Andover City Council Meeting
Minutes - June 16, 1998
Page 2
(Resident Forum, Continued)
that neighborhood. This was an attempt to encourage those who cut through the neighborhood to
use other routes. Stop signs cannot legally be used to control speeding problems. Councilmember
Dehn admolÚshed those drivers in general who speed, putting themselves and others at risk. Going
the speed limit and using good judgement means no one wìl1 get hurt, and this applies to everyone
in all neighborhoods. Mr. Haas stated the City Engineer will hold another neighborhood meeting
after the speed bumps are removed. He will be sure that Mr. Zìl1hardt is notified as welL
Don Legge. ] 44 ] 7 Vinta¡¡e Street - stated aU of the citations issued for this area were given in
RoseUa's Addition. He stated there is a total disregard for the speeding laws with people speeding
through their area, as well as running the stop signs, and passing on the right. However, going over
the speed bumps is a nuisance. He suggested that the speed limit be lowered instead. Mayor
McKelvey noted by law the City is unable to lower the speed limit; and given the guidelines used
by the State to establish speed limits, he wasn't sure he wanted more speed studies done.
Mr. Legge - complained of the violations of the City's code by a neighbor living across the street.
He's registered numerous complaints for the last two years, and he enumerated the dates and type
types of complaints. He expressed frustration that even though repeated warnings have been given
to those residents, the problem is not getting resolved; and he cited some of the things done by the
residents to get around the code. Currently there are IÚne vehicles on that property and a dog which
attacked one of the neighbors. It is a case of the neighbors not caring or having respect for the others
in the area. There is no teeth in the ordinance to force this person to comply with the codes and
nothing is getting done. The value of his property has dropped about $25,000 because of this. He
felt Mr. Johnson is doing a good job but that there is a problem with the City's code.
Mr. Johnson stated this is a repeat violator. The property is now in worse condition than it has even
been in terms of violating the City ordinances. The Zoning Ordinance Review Task Force has not
yet reviewed the portion of the ordinance relating to junk vehicles. Attorney Hawkins stated
normally when they get a conviction, the judge wìl1 impose a jail sentence and stay it based on no
further violations. If there are future violations, there is grounds for incarceration.
? . 14406 Vintage - has lived there for 23 years and this problem has gotten worse in the last three
to four years. There is also a problem with noise. Those people just do not care. He doesn't want
to live next door to someone with six or eight trailers in the back yard. It is usually worse on
Sunday morning. He's counted as many as nine vehicles on the property at one time. Attorney
Hawkins stated the policy can be changed to contact the owners to comply with the ordinance within
so many days; and if there are further violations, a complaint will be filed in court against them. He
felt the City does have the tools available to deal with repeat offenders. After some discussion, the
Council encouraged Staff and the City Attorney to take the necessary steps to resolve this issue.
Carroll Abbott. 39] 7 142nd Lane - thought Councilmember Dehn's remarks on speeding amounted
to a tongue lashing. He related a similar problem with speeding in his neighborhood several years
ago by snowmobilers, and he drove his station wagon across the street. The problem never happened
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Regular Andover City Council Meeting
Minutes - June 16, 1998
Page 3
(Resident Forum, Continued)
again. Councilmember Oehn apologized if anyone was offended. No one should be speeding.
Mr. Abbott - stated he was the Crime Watch captain of his block when that program was in effect.
He would cOnITont adults and youth he knew and saw speeding down the street, and that seemed to
eliminate some of the problems. If the Crime Watch program could work again, there may not be
these problems in the City. Mr. Abbott then asked about the plans for the dump station and whether
or not residents will be allowed to use it. Grand Rapids asks users to deposit a $1 or $2 donation on
the honor system, which might be a consideration here in Andover.
Mr. Fursman stated an appraisal is being done on the property the City is considering to purchase
for the dump station. No decisions have been made on the ability of residents to use it or the security
that would be needed to do so. That will ultimately be a Council decision.
Mr. Abbott - stated if there is going to be residents on the committee to make a recommendation, he
would like to be on that committee. He then asked who is responsible for the property line markers.
The people on both sides of him want to install fences, and they have been out with metal detectors
but have been unable to find the property markers. He wondered if they were dug out when the street
was installed. Mr. Haas stated he will check on that matter.
Mr. Abbott - stated on Heather between Ivywood and 142nd, people park on both sides of the street
during ball games, creating only one lane for traffic. He feared that some child will dart out between
the cars and get hit. He'd like to see no parking signs on the east side of Heather. Mr. Haas stated
Staff will look at that and bring it to the Park and Recreation Commission for a recommendation to
the CounciL
? . 14 771 Crane Street - expressed disappointment in the way the City deals with law enforcement,
particularly in driving violations. He sited numerous instances of speeding, people passing on the
right, and general disregard for the traffic laws. He felt it is worse in Andover than elsewhere. He
is just waiting for someone to get killed before something is done. There is only passive
enforcement of the law, citing numerous instances of violations taking place in front of officers who
do nothing about them. The road signs don't work. He's never seen a patrol car in his neighborhood.
He thought it is time for the City to get its own police department as there is not enough of a
presence of the police at this time.
.
Councilmember Orttel noted he has experienced similar problems in other cities as welL The
upgrading of the intersection at Hanson and Bunker Lake Boulevards will help. So will the
reconstruction of Bunker Lake Boulevard to four lanes next year. The City's roads are over loaded,
as there has been little upgrading of county roads in recent years, since the population is rapidly
increasing. It seems that people don't care any more, and more police is not necessarily the answer.
The Anoka County Sheriff's Department is the City's police department. If more enforcement is
needed, the Council may have to look at the need for more officers. Andover also has the advantage
of having the Sheriffs station in the City, so there is also the presence of squad cars coming and
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Regular Andover City Council Meeting
Minutes - June 16, 1998
Page 4
(Resident Forum, Continued)
going from other locations in the county. Mayor McKelvey also noted that often the deputies are
on calls that are a higher priority than traffic stops, which can take up to an hour and a half to
process. The City of Minneapolis increased its law enforcement from 300 to 800 officers, but it
didn't make a difference. He related an incident of driving at 65 miles an hour and found that a great
number of vehicles passed him, agreeing there is little regard for the law anywhere. Councilmember
Dehn again noted that road rage is very prevalent in this state. The Council noted they will be
reviewing the Sheriff's Department contract for the next year.
AGENDA APPROVAL
Motion by Dehn, Seconded by Kunza, the Agenda as written. Motion carried unanimously.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
June 2, 1998, Regular Meeting: Correct as written.
June 2, 1998, Special Closed Meeting: Correct as written.
Motion by Knight, Seconded by Dehn, to approve the Minutes. Motion carried unanimously.
CONSENT AGENDA
Item 9 Approve Feasibility ReportlIP98-13/Fox Meadows (Resolution RIII-98)
Item I 0 Approve BidslPainting of Old Public Works Building
Item 11 Approve Temporary Non-Intoxicating Liquor LicenseILions Club/Fun Fest
Item 12 Approve Bingo Permit/Andover BasebaIl/Fun Fest
Item 13 Approve Extension of Liquor LicenselPov's Sports Bar
Item 14 Approve Sale ofPulltabslLions Club/Fun Fest (Resolution RI12-98)
Item 15 Approve Junkyard License/ Anoka Auto Wrecking
Item 16 Approve Amendment to Ordinance 101
Item I 7 Approve Ordinance 228NSwimming Pools
Item 18 Approve Garbage Hauler Licenses (Johnson Sanitation, Larry's Quality
Sanitation, Pretzel Sanitation, Corrow Trucking & Sanitation, BFI Waste
Services, Waste Management)
Item 19 Approve Recycling Agreement with Anoka County
Item 20 Approve Assignment and Pledge of Securities at Norwest Banks
Item 21 Approve Change Order #1 to Project 97-44 (Shadowbrook 3rd Addition)!frunk
Watermain for Project 97-1 (Andover Boulevard/Weybridge 3rd Addition)
(Resolution RI13-98)
Motion by Dehn, Seconded by Kunza, to approve the Consent Agenda. Motion carried
unanimously.
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Regular Andover City Council Meeting
Minutes - June 16, 1998
Page 5
PO V'S SPORTS BAR NOISE TEST RESULTS
Mr. Johnson reviewed the noise test results of Po v's Sports Bar, 1851 Bunker Lake Boulevard NW
using a sound level (decibel reading) meter ITom the State of Minnesota Pollution Control Agency.
Six noise tests were taken at two locations west of the sports bar and adjacent to the residences on
Nightingale Street and Partridge Street. He was on Pov's property doing the tests. Those tests were
conducted ITom 9 to 11 p.m. on evelÚngs that softball games were played. The results indicate that
the decibel level readings were within the MPCA Noise Standards; however, noise was audible at
the property line of adjacent residences after 10 p.m., which is prohibited by the City's Noise
Ordinance, Ordinance 231. He also reviewed how the tests were taken and the measurement
standards of the MPCA. A majority of the metropolitan cities have adopted the MPCA noise
standards, as they have been proven to be an effective mechanism for noise levels.
Councilmember Orttel questioned the location site of the noise tests, especially the one due west.
The City's ordinance refers to noise at the property line, which he interprets would be the property
line of Po v's Sports Bar; but it appears the westerly location of the noise tests was done on the City's
property adjacent to the residents. The City's ordinance is such that talking from one parcel which
can be heard over the property line would be ìllegal. Because the Planrúng and Zoning Commission
made the request for the noise tests, he suggested the matter be referred to them for review. Attorney
Hawkins advised that if the MPCA standards are to be adopted, the ordinance would be amended
to reference those standards and eliminate Section 2, which is too subjective.
AI Grabowski - stated the MPCA standards would have some type of code enforcement. He
suggested Staff check with the Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, which have codes similar to the
MPCA codes.
James? . 13885 Osage - stated the first tests were along side the highway within a couple hundred
feet of Bunker Lake Boulevard. The second one was more than 200 feet from the property line of
the bar on the other side of the woods. Some of those people who signed the petition along
Nightingale are on the other side of the woods do hear the noise. Those tests should have taken place
at the property line of the bar. Councilmember Orttel understood the bar owns that entire parcel; and
under the ordinance, the noise should not go beyond the parcel's boundary. One test was taken at
the property line, but apparently the one to the west was not.
Mr.? - understood the sports bar is now supposed to comply with the code in place of no noise after
10 o'clock. The other night he laid in bed for 20 minutes, and the noise was so bad he called the
sheriff at 10:20. The Deputy got to Pov's at 10:30, but said there was nothing going on. He stated
it was about 10:35 when the noise finally quit. Three of his neighbors who are 1 Y, blocks from his
house also heard the noise. This has been going on all summer already. There is no respect for the
people, and the residents around this facility are going through a lot with the Council and Attorney
not going to court over the issue. Councilmember Orttel stated the decision was made that the City
will determine the noise levels to resolve the problem. In the mean time, he understood there would
be no prosecution. For any amendment to the ordinance, the Planning Commission will hold a
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Regular Andover City Council Meeting
Minutes - June 16, 1998
Page 6
(Pov's Sports Bar noise Test Results, Continued)
public hearing, at which time the residents are invited to give testimony. Mayor McKelvey stated
he stopped by Pov's that evening at 10:30 and no one was on the ball fields and the lights were of
off.
A brief discussion on the issue continued, after which the Council agreed to forward the tests results
to the Planning and Zoning Commission for their review.
APPROVE DRIVEWAY LICENSEAGREEMENTIIP97-43/1171 AND 1155140TH LANE
Mr. Haas summarized the Driveway License Agreement to allow two residents to use motorized
vehicles on a portion of the City's trail to access their rear yards. The Park and Recreation
Commission has reviewed it and is recommending approval with a review of the amount of liability
coverage. After discussing it with Councilmember Orttel, the minimum liability coverage has been
increased to $100,000 per person, $300,000 per occurrence and $50,000 in property damages.
Tony Brozek. 1155 140th Lane - recommended a few changes to the agreement, as he felt as written
it favors the City. Paragraph 4, third line, .....or in any other way interferes with the use of the
Drivewayaccess..." He felt that language is very vague, and he'd like to see more specific items be
outlined or delete that phrase altogether. Paragraph 6: He didn't have a problem with it but asked
that he be given the opportunity to repair any damage at his cost first, as he felt he would be able to
do so at a cheaper cost than having the City do it and assess it back. Paragraph 8: Mr. Brozek stJited
the paragraph is written that if something happens with his vehicle, it is his liability. He felt similar
language should be added about the City's liability if something happens with a City vehicle.
Paragraph 9: He wondered why the agreement would not be recorded with the County Recorder. If
it is recorded, he wouldn't have to go through this process again if there is a change in policy or in
the City Council. He felt he is protected if the agreement is recorded.
Mayor McKelvey explained by recording the agreement, he would have a permanent easement over
the City's property, which is not what is being done. This way, should his home bum down, the City
would have the right to remove the agreement because it wouldn't be needed. The City cannot give
him interest in public property.
Mr. Brozek - asked what kind of proof would be needed to abide by this agreement. Councilmember
Orttel noted it is a legal document and the rules of evidence would apply. The wording in Paragraph
4 simply refers to other ways in which the trail could be blocked. It would not be possible to list in
this document all the potential ways of interfering with the driveway access. The access is only for
the two residences to be able to get to the garages in the back.
Mr. Brozek - asked that a provision be added that if the City decides to terminate the license, that
he would get reimbursed for the money he's invested in that area to improve it. He's put in over 100
yards of dirt and over $2,000 worth of rock. He also presented a proposal for revising the license
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Regular Andover City Council Meeting
Minutes - June 16, 1998
Page 7
(Driveway license Agreement/IP97-43/1171 & 1155 140th Lane, Continued)
agreement with those changes, asking that the Council review it. Councilmember Orttel noted the
only way the license can be terminated is if the property owner breaks the agreement; and, again, the
rules of evidence would apply. Mayor McKelvey noted if that provision were in the agreement, it
would mean IS or more years down the road, he would be able to collect without any depreciation.
In further discussion, the Council did not feel there was a problem with the license agreement as
written by the City Attorney.
Mr. Brozek - stated it is difficult to drive vehicles on a IO-foot wide path, and he asked the Council
to consider constructing the trail wider toward the street. It is 16 feet wide there now.
Councilmember Orttel stated the agreement is to allow inITequent access to the back of the property.
The City drives on the 10-foot trail to access the back. Mr. Haas stated at this point the 10-foot
width is acceptable to the Public Works Department. The Council agreed to leave it up to the Public
Works Department.
Mr. Brozek - asked when will they start the trail, as he doesn't want all of the crushed rock pulled
out and used elsewhere. Mr. Haas stated he will be notified when the project will begin. Attorney
Hawkins did not recommend paying the property owners for the breach of the agreement. The draft
agreement is short and consise and is of extreme benefit to the property owners, allowing them to
use City property as access to the back of their properties. Without it, he felt there would be a title
problem when they sell their homes in the future. In the event of any legal action against either
property owner, the reasonable standard would apply in court.
Mr. Brozek - asked that the effective date of this agreement be July I or after the trail is completed.
He will be moving his business out of the garage as soon as his new building for his business is
completed. Attorney Hawkins stated the effective date of the agreement has nothing to do with the
construction. The only thing being required is the proof of insurance. While the Council discussed
several options on a starting date, no change was made to the agreement.
Motion by Orttel, Seconded by Knight, that the Council authorize the License Agreement known as
License Agreement for Project 97-43 as prepared by the City Attorney. Motion carried on a 4- Yes,
I-No (Dehn as she felt the entire thing is a big mistake) vote.
USE OF PARK INCIDENTíI'OM BASARAlRESIDENT/ANDOVER BASEBALL
Tom Basara. 1286 ISOth Lane - reviewed an incident of his family playing on a ball field when AI
Grabowski hollared at them to get off the field. Apparently the field was to be used for an Andover
Athletic Association tournament the next day, but there were no signs that said so. The incident was
very upsetting to his wife and children. His point for bringing this forward was he thought a Park
and Recreation Commissioner was totally out of line in the way he handled the situation. He
understands a City Board member has no authority to throw people off the fields, so possibly there
is a conflict of interest there. That is for the City to decide.
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Regular Andover City Council Meeting
Minutes - June 16, 1998
Page 8
(Use of Park Incident/Tom Basara/Andover Baseball, Continued)
Park and Recreation Commission ChaiJ:person Al Grabowski - stated the AAA had reserved those
fields for Friday evening back in January because at the time he didn't know whether or not they
would be playing games Friday evening. He eXplained that the level of maintenance has changed
this year, and now Public Works is grooming the fields the day before a tournament plus once on
Saturday and once on Sunday. Public Works had always posted the signs in the past to keep people
off the groomed fields. He happened to see lights on the fields at about 9:30 the evening in question
and drove out as a representative of the AAA to see what was happening. He saw people in the field;
and from his truck over 70 feet away, said "Would you please get off the fields. I have games
scheduled for tomorrow." He carried out his responsibilities correctly by getting the reservations
and gave a copy to the Andover Baseball Association. He called the head of the Andover Baseball
Association about the incident, and there is no problem between the two organizations. The baseball
association volunteered their time to repair the field the next day.
Public Works Superintendnet frank Stone stated they have no signs, as he thought it is up to the
athetlic associations to indicate the fields are reserved. He will check with the Parks Department to
see what can be done and with Mr. Haas to determine how many signs would be needed.
After discussing the incident and policies in place with Staff and Chairperson Grabowski, the
Council suggested that because it is assumed that the ball fields are available for public use when
not being used for an organized game, that those fields that have been groomed for tournament play
the next day should be signed. Also, the public should be directed to those fields that are available
for them. They also suggested that even though Chairperson Grabowski was acting on behalf of the
AAA, he is always perceived as a representative of the City and as someone of authority; and his
actions should always reflect that.
Mr. Stone stated because of the problem keeping the bathrooms cleaned during large tournaments,
he has hired a cleaning service to come in both Saturday and Sunday to clean up so the restro:>ms
wìll meet the health codes. In addition, the outside satellite companies will be asked to pump on
Saturdays and Sundays on weekends oflarge tournaments.
Chairperson Grabowski stated he has a check to the City for $400 from the State tournament
committee ITom the tournament that can go toward maintenance. He has also donated three dozen
bats and 400 stirrups that the baseball league uses this year. Mr. Fursman noted the growth in the
baseball and softball associations has doubled and tripled in recent years. With only three full-time
people in the Parks Department, they simply cannot do the things they have done in the past. The
City needs to evaluate how tournaments are handled, and help is needed from the associations as
well. The proposed 1999 budget will also reflect the tremendous growth in these programs. Mr.
Stone stated there will be "reserved:" signs on the fields for the next tournament.
Councilmember Dehn asked if people are allowed to display their cars that are for sale in the park's
parking lot, referring specifically to Hills of Bunker Lake Sth park. Mayor McKelvey stated people
are not allowed to do so, and one has already been towed off the City's property.
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Regular Andover City Council Meeting
Minutes - June 16, 1998
Page 9
DISCUSS CURBS IN RURAL AREA
Mr. Haas reviewed a proposal to change the street curbing standard in rural developments ITom the
current standard of asphalt curbs, to require concrete curb and gutters, the same as what is required
in urban developments. He cited four reasons for doing so: 1) There is a longer service life with
concrete curb and gutter. 2) The drainage is improved within the street, as bituminous curbing often
results in "bird baths" along the curb lines or at intersections of adjacent streets. 3) There will be
a long-term cost savings for the City because it will not have to be replaced as often as the asphalt
curbing. 4) It is the norm in other developing communities such as Ham Lake. Mr. Haas had
pictures showing some of the problems with asphalt curbing. The drainage does not necessarily have
to be more sophisticated with the concrete curb and gutter. It would add about $1 ,SOO to the cost
of a rural lot and would apply even to roads in rural areas that are being upgraded or rebuilt.
The Council asked Staff to draw up the specifications for action at a future meeting. They also asked
that the Staff research what other cities are doing in the rural areas, the width of street they require
and whether or not they require the concrete curb and gutter in repaving projects.
DISCUSS ORDINANCE 10, SECTION 9. 07. 6/PARK DEDICATION
Mr. Haas reviewed the Park and Recreation Commission's recommendation to leave the Ordinance
as is relating to park dedication in commercial and industrial developments and to follow it.
The Council discussed the procedure for obtaining market value ofthe property. Councilmember
Orttel commented that in the dispute over market value for HarlÚlton Square, it was the Council that
felt there was a discrepancy in the value and asked that it be looked at again. He also did not have
a problem following the ordinance as written, but felt there needs to be some provision for mediation
if a dispute arises. He also suggested that the City have three official appraisers that are used and
the developer would be able to choose one.
Motion by Kunza, Seconded by Orttel, to list three to five appraisers and let the developers pick one
of them. DISCUSSION: There was discussion with Park and Recreation Commission Chairperson
Grabowski regarding the ordinance provision and procedure for obtaining market values. The
Council felt the confusion has been with the commercial development in the rural area, as that is
something the City has not done before. Some cities don't assess a park fee at all for commercial
property; others charge just a flat fee each year.
Ed Hamilton. 661S Highway 10 NW Ramsey. MN - stated they were denied the right to appeal the
park dedication fee for Hamilton Square. The land was appraised for $1 million. They paid
$100,000 for park dedication but were then denied the right to appeal. They had 24 acres, but only
16 acres could be sold and developed. They checked with policies in the surrounding cities and
found that if this were in Ham Lake, they would have paid $12,600 in park dedication fees. In ~ I-hr.\
~ il~ld Ilav" beclì. $j,I~..l pel _~.~, in Elk River, $1,500 per acre; and in Ramsey, about
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Regular Andover City Council Meeting
Minutes - June 16, 1998
Page 10
(Ordinance 10, Section 9.07. 61Park Dedication, Continued)
$40,000 total. He feels they were penalized for developing in Andover, and that will discourage
others from developing in the City. He also reviewed the great disparity on the land value
determined by the three appraisers on his property, and he went into some detail as to how the land
was appraised both before and after its Green Acres classification. If he had to do it over again, he
would not have developed that property for the clinic and post office. Councilmember Orttel asked
that he provide copies of the ordinances ITom other cities regarding park dedication for commercial
property.
Winslow Holasek. 1159 Andover Boulevard - stated it's been his experience that appraisers are not
impartial and favor the City they were hired by. He has a concern of who will be on the list of
appraisers and that it not be just those working for government entities. He also explained that the
property is not valued as it was under Green Acres. When the Green Acres classification ceases,
taxes are paid retroactively for three years and full market value is assigned.
Motion carried on a 4-Yes, I-No (Oehn believing the City should look at a separate policy for
residential and commercial property) vote. Councilmember Orttel agreed the research and discussion
should continue on how other cities determine park dedication for commercial property.
ICMA CONFERENCE
Mr. Fursman asked the Council to consider options for funding out-of-state travel to professional
conferences, specifically the October International City Manager's Conference in Orlando. He
attended the 1997 ICMA conference in Vancouver, paying for his own travel and accommodations
and using his own time off for the trip. While he would use his own time off for this conference, he
did not feel he could pay his own way for this year's conference, which he estimated to be between
$600 to $900. His research finds that all cities the size of Andover recognize the benefits of such
travel, education and contacts and pay for these types of professional conferences.
Council discussion noted that a policy needs to be developed on national conferences that is
applicable to all of the department heads, keeping in mind the budget restraints so that there is equal
treatment of everyone. The policy might be that they be allowed to attend a national conference
every two to three years, and that it would be known beforehand when they would be able to attend.
Motion by Kunza, Seconded by Orttel, to approve Mr. Fursman's request regarding the October,
1998, ICMA conference. Motion carried unanimously.
CITY OF RAMSEY PUBLIC HEARING RESULTS/SLOW-NO-WAKE ORDINANCE
Mr. Johnson explained the City of Ramsey held a public hearing on the proposed ordinance for slow-
no-wake zones along the Rum River. They are recommending that Zones I and 2 be deleted, that
Zone 3 is questionable and that Zone 4 remain as illustrated on the map.
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Regular Andover City Council Meeting
Minutes - June 16, 1998
Page 11
(City of Ramsey Public Hearing Results/Slow-No-Wake Ordinance, Continued)
While the Council was confused because the first reaction from the City of Ramsey was that they
wanted the entire river as a slow-no-wake zone, they preferred that Zones 3 and 4 remain as
proposed. It was also suggested that Staff contact Anoka County regarding their position on Zone
2 since it is adjacent to the newly developed county park. It was suggested the item be placed on
the agenda after a response is received from the County but before forwarding a response to the City
of Ramsey.
The meeting was recessed to hold an HRA meeting, II :30; reconvened at II :31 p.m.
MAYOR/COUNCIL INPUT
Cars "For Sale" along the roads - Councilmember Dehn noted there are many cars along the
highways, especially on public property, that are being displayed for sale. She also complimeated
the Sheriff's Department and CSOs for doing a good job of being highly visible. Mr. Johnson stated
Staff is coordinating with the Community Service Officer on this issue.
Rejèrendum in Woodbury - open spaces - Councilmember Kunza noted the referendum that passed
in Woodbury regarding open spaces. Councilmember Orttel noted it is a big issue with the public,
but it is very costly to purchase those open spaces. Mayor McKelvey also noted it then becomes City
land which has to be maintained. No action was taken.
Sidewalks along Crooked Lake Blvd - Councilmember Kunza understood the neighbors voted to
reject the installation of sidewalks along Crooked Lake Boulevard when the project was done last
year; but the recent incident of a child being hit by a truck in the neighborhood reaffirms his belief
that sidewalks or trails should be installed along there. Councilmember Orttel felt the City's policy
on traffic, patrol and road improvement needs to be reviewed and updated. The population has
doubled, so the amount of police patrol needs to keep up. Also, the county has not kept up with
keeping their roads in good condition. Mayor McKelvey stated he has been trying to convince the
county to upgrade Hanson Boulevard to four lanes from Bunker Lake Boulevard south to Highway
242 along with the intersection project tJùs summer. So far no one will give him a definitive answer.
No specific direction was taken on this issue.
Meet with the Planning and Zoning Commission & Comprehensive Plan Task Force - The Council
agreed to meet with the Comprehensive Plan Task Force between 6 and 7 p.m. on Tuesday, July 28,
and with the Planning and Zoning Commission between 7 and 8 p.m. on that same day.
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Regular Andover City Council Meeting
Minutes - June 16, 1998
Page 12
APPROVAL OF CLAIMS
Motion by Dehn, Seconded by Kunza, the payment of Claims. Motion carried unanimously.
Motion by Knight, Seconded by Dehn, to adjourn. Motion carried unanimously.
The meeting adjourned at 11 :42 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
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Marcella A. Peach
Recording Secretary
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