2-10-97 agendaCITY OF RICHFIELD, MINNESOTA
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 1997
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
7:00 P.M.
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
AGENDA
INTRODUCTORY PROCEEDINGS
CALL TO ORDER
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE (1) SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF
JANUARY 27,1997; (2) REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JANUARY 27,
1997; (3) SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JANUARY 29,1997; AND (4) CITY
COUNCIL STUDY SESSION OF FEBRUARY 3, 1997
• PRESENTATIONS
INDIVIDUALS WHO WISH TO ADDRESS THE COUNCIL ARE REQUESTED TO
PRINT THEIR NAME AND ADDRESS ON THE SPEAKER'S REGISTER FOR THE
RECORD.
OPPORTUNITY FOR CITIZENS TO ADDRESS THE COUNCIL ON ITEMS NOT
ON THE AGENDA
2. PRESENTATION OF CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT FOR EXCELLENCE IN
FINANCIAL REPORTING AWARDED BY GOVERNMENT FINANCE OFFICERS
ASSOCIATION
COUNCIL LETTER NO. 43
AGENDA APPROVAL
3. COUNCIL APPROVAL OF AGENDA
CONSENT CALENDAR
4. CONSENT CALENDAR CONTAINS SEVERAL SEPARATE ITEMS WHICH ARE
ACTED UPON BY THE CITY COUNCIL IN ONE MOTION. ONCE THE
CONSENT CALENDAR HAS BEEN APPROVED, THE INDIVIDUAL ITEMS AND
RECOMMENDED ACTIONS HAVE ALSO BEEN APPROVED. NO FURTHER
COUNCIL ACTION IS NECESSARY. HOWEVER, ANY COUNCIL MEMBER
MAY REQUEST THAT AN ITEM BE REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT
CALENDAR AND PLACED ON THE REGULAR AGENDA FOR COUNCIL
DISCUSSION AND ACTION. ALL ITEMS LISTED ON THE CONSENT
CALENDAR ARE RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL.
A. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF CITY MANAGER'S APPOINTMENT
OF LAWRENCE EMOND AND GLENN ERICKSON AS RESIDENT
MEMBERS TO THE 1997 BOARD OF EQUALIZATION C.L. 44
B. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF PURCHASE OF RACAL WORDNET
LOGGING RECORDER FOR PUBLIC SAFETY COMMUNICATIONS
CENTER FROM LOFFLER IN AMOUNT OF $24,941.42 C.L. 45
PUBLIC HEARINGS
5. PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER APPLICATION FOR NEW 1997 TAVERN
(DANCE) LICENSE FOR CHI CHI'S INC., DBA CHI CHI'S MEXICAN
RESTAURANTE, 7717 NICOLLET AVENUE
COUNCIL LETTER NO. 46
6. PUBLIC HEARING TO AMEND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR 7608 KNOX
AVENUE TO ALLOW ADDITIONAL PARKING FOR TAXI DISPATCH AND
. REPAIR BUSINESS
COUNCIL LETTER NO. 47
7. PUBLIC HEARING AND SECOND READING OF TRANSITORY ORDINANCE TO
AUTHORIZE SALE OF CITY-OWNED PROPERTY AT 7645 NICOLLET AVENUE
TO RICHFIELD HRA FOR RICHFIELD REDISCOVERED SITE DEVELOPMENT
COUNCIL LETTER NO. 48
8. PUBLIC HEARING AND SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE AMENDMENT
REZONING 6938-40, 6944-46 AND PORTION OF 6958 CEDAR AVENUE FROM
MR-1 (TWO FAMILY RESIDENCE) TO C-2 (GENERAL COMMERCIAL)
COUNCIL LETTER NO. 49
9. PUBLIC HEARING TO AMEND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR 6938-40,
6944-46 AND 6958 CEDAR AVENUE TO ALLOW EXPANSION OF EXISTING
AUTO MECHANICAL GARAGE
COUNCIL LETTER NO. 50
0
10. PUBLIC HEARING AND SECOND READING OF TRANSITORY ORDINANCE TO
VACATE 17 FEET OF STREET RIGHT-OF-WAY ADJACENT TO 6938-40, 6944-
46 AND 6958 CEDAR AVENUE
COUNCIL LETTER NO. 51
11. PUBLIC HEARING AND SECOND READING OF AMENDMENT TO CITY
ORDINANCE CODE BY AMENDING SECTIONS 300.03, 300.09 AND. ADDING
SECTIONS 105.11 AND 300.19 CONCERNING CITY DEPARTMENT
ORGANIZATION
COUNCIL LETTER NO. 52
PROPOSED ORDINANCE
12. CONSIDERATION OF FIRST READING OF TRANSITORY ORDINANCE
PROVIDING FUNDING FOR CERTAIN CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS FROM
SPECIAL REVENUE FUND
COUNCIL LETTER NO. 53
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS AND OTHER BUSINESS
13. CONSIDERATION OF CONCEPT APPROVAL FOR ADDITION TO ICE ARENA
FOR LEASE ARRANGEMENT WITH HAT TRICK HOCKEY
COUNCIL LETTER NO. 54
14. CONSIDERATION OF NEW APPLICATION FOR VETERINARY LICENSE FOR
DR. JOEL D. LOCKETZ LOCATED AT PETCO DBA PET FOOD WAREHOUSE,
710 WEST 66TH STREET
COUNCIL LETTER NO. 55
15. CONSIDERATION OF ADDITIONAL APPOINTMENT TO HUMAN RIGHTS
COMMISSION
AIRPORT BUSINESS
16. AIRPORT STATUS REPORT
CORRESPONDENCE
0 17. LEGISLATIVE REPORT
L?
COUNCIL CHOICE
18. COUNCIL DISCUSSION ITEMS
19. CLAIMS AND PAYROLLS
20. ADJOURNMENT
Auxiliary aids for individuals with disabilities are available upon request.
Requests must be made at least 96 hours in advance to the Administrative
Services Director at 861-9702.
•
CITY OF LICHFIELD, MINNESOTA
Council Letter No. 55
Agenda February 10, 1997
Issue Statement:
Consideration of a new application for a veterinary license for Dr. Joel D. Locketz
located at Petco d.b.a. Pet Food Warehouse, 710 West 66th Street.
Background:
On December 16, 1996, Dr. Joel Locketz submitted an application for a new veterinary
license. This license will be for the treating of animals only. Dr. Locketz is not an
employee of Petco d.b.a. Pet Food Warehouse but is an independent who will be
providing veterinary wellness clinics on a limited basis (some evenings and weekends).
There will be no surgery or kenneling of animals on the site.
Staff has contacted Dr. Locketz and his attorney, Helen Winder, and finds the following:
• The clinic will operate no more than three days per week and no more than three
hours per session.
• The clinic will not operate on Monday nights.
• The clinic will not operate later than 6 p.m. on Saturdays.
A licensed veterinarian will be on duty at all times when the facility is operating and
• at least two other staff persons will also be on duty.
• Any veterinarian services provided will comply with applicable State law and
regulations.
• Any animal that does not pass the health screening will be referred for treatment
elsewhere.
Staff has contacted the Minnesota Board of Veterinary Medicine and found that Dr.
Locketz and his associates are all currently licensed in the State of Minnesota.
An inspection had previously been conducted by Bloomington sanitarian staff and
Petco d.b.a. Pet Food Warehouse has met their requirements by installing a mop sink
in this area. Dr. Locketz will provide stainless steel tables for use at the site. The area
to be used for clinics is currently without linoleum tile and is concrete.
Community Development has reviewed the application and it is in compliance with
zoning requirements.
Recommended Motion:
Staff recommends that the application for a veterinary license be approved with the
following stipulations:
01. The applicant and Petco d.b.a. Pet Food Warehouse must file with the Public Safety
Director for approval a written plan showing the procedures they will use for
removing waste from the parking areas and the applicant and Petco d.b.a. Pet Food
Warehouse must comply with such procedures. At a minimum, the exterior of the
building and parking lot near this business must be checked twice a day for the
removal of any animal feces that may occur as a result of patrons bringing their
animals with them. All feces must be cleaned up and immediately disposed of
properly.
2. All animals in the store and the veterinary clinic must be controlled by a leash not
exceeding six feet in length or in a carrier of adequate size and strength to be
reasonably able to control the animal. The employees of the facility are responsible
for enforcing these requirements.
3. Any incidents of animal biting, fights or other safety threatening incidents must be
immediately reported to the City.
4. No boarding, x-rays or surgery should occur on site.
5. Petco d.b.a. Pet Food Warehouse, and Dr. Joel Locketz agree, at their own
expense, to continuously carry public liability insurance in amounts of at least
$500,000 for injury or death to one person and $1,000,000 for injury or death to
more than one person, in one occurrence, so as to ensure Petco d.b.a. Pet Food
Warehouse and Dr. Joel Locketz against all claims and causes of action arising out
• of injury to any person or persons while on the premises within the possession of
and under the operation of Petco d.b.a. Pet Food Warehouse, and Dr. Joel Locketz.
Petco d.b.a. Pet Food Warehouse and Dr. Joel Locketz agree to provide the City of
Richfield with certificates of insurance evidencing such coverage and for each
renewal of the license thereof.
6. Petco d.b.a. Pet Food Warehouse and Dr. Joel Locketz shall post appropriate signs
at the entrance to the Petco d.b.a. Pet Food Warehouse store and at the entrance
to the veterinary clinic and at two locations in the parking lot servicing such store
and veterinary clinic, advising the customers and patrons of the need to restrain
their animals in the manner as set forth in paragraph 2 above. The signs to be
posted in the parking lot shall be at locations to be recommended by the City's
Director of Public Safety. The signs required by this paragraph shall also advise
customers of the need to remove feces deposited on the property by their animal.
The signs to be posted in the parking lot are subject to the consent of the owner of
the shopping center.
7. Petco d.b.a. Pet Food Warehouse and Dr. Joel Locketz must comply with all
applicable state laws, regulations and City odinances.
8. Stainless steel tables must be used for examining animals and commercial grade
• linoleum tile or a thick coat of epoxy must be installed as the floor finish in the clinic
area.
)-I/- ?
i 9. If more than 10 customers are at the veterinary clinic at any one time, the clinic
must follow the process of giving the customers a specific estimated time at which
to return to the facility in order to be served rather than waiting. This will tend to
eliminate the potential safety issue of having large numbers of animals
congregating at one time in a given location within the facility.
10. Pet food stored in the area in which the veterinary clinic will be conducted must be
relocated on the days in which the clinic will be operating. This is necessary to
avoid possible contamination of pet food products.
Basis of Recommendation:
The applicant has been made aware of the City codes pertaining to a veterinary
license. Items 1-7 were requirements made of Petsmart and A Caring Doctor in 1996.
Items 8 -10 are requirements of Petco d.b.a. Pet Food Warehouse and Dr. Joel Locketz
as a result of the type of services that will be provided at their location.
Alternative Recommendation:
The Council could decide to deny the request for a new veterinary license; however, the
Public Safety Department has not found any basis for a denial.
Discussion/Decision Mode:
• Consideration of an application for a new veterinary license, with stipulations, for Dr.
Joel D. Locketz, located at Petco d.b.a. Pet Food Warehouse, 710 West 66th Street, is
presented for Council consideration at this time.
Respectfully submitted,
Ja . Prosser
City nager
JDP:cak
0
/2
• CITY OF RICHFIELD, MINNESOTA
Council Letter No. 54
Agenda February 10, 1997
Issue Statement:
Consideration of concept approval for an addition to the ice arena for a lease
arrangement with Hat Trick Hockey.
Background:
Several months ago, the City was approached by the owner of Hat Trick Hockey, 609
East 66th Street, about the possibility of moving his retail skating business into a space
adjacent or attached to the ice arena.
Tom Sachs, the proprietor of Hat Trick Hockey, hired an architect to prepare plans for a
proposed 2,000 square foot addition to the southeast side (near the main entrance) of
the ice arena. The proposal calls for the City to finance the construction of an addition
to the ice arena and modify the main entrance/vestibule area of the arena. The space
would be leased to Hat Trick Hockey at a rate that would seek to recapture the cost of
construction on a long-term basis as well as provide a modest return on investment.
The consideration of proceeding with the proposal requires attention to several
technical and public policy issues. Each issue should be reviewed in greater detail.
Zoning
The ice arena is located in an area that is zoned residential (R). The zoning ordinance
does not address a commercial use in a governmental facility that is located in a
residential district. When a use is not specifically described in the zoning ordinance, the
City Council must make a determination as to how the proposed use should be
classified. The City Council would be asked to make a determination whether Hat Trick
Hockey is an accessory use of the ice arena (the principal use). It must be considered
an accessory use in order to be allowed in the residential district.
Negotiated Lease Versus Bid
An important legal and public policy issue is the decision to pursue a negotiated lease
versus an open bid process. There is no requirement that the City seek competitive
bids for a lease of public property. Both MN Statute 471.345 and the City Charter only
require competitive bids for contracts in excess of $25,000 for the construction,
alteration, repair or maintenance of real property. Neither regulate the rental of real
property. Thus, there is a legal basis for negotiating a lease with one individual or
business.
Mr. Sachs proposed this concept and was only interested in pursuing the idea if it did
not proceed as a competitive bid process, which could ultimately result in a competitor
• operating across the street from his current location. Mr. Sachs has also expended his
funds to engage an architect to prepare plans for the project and would ultimately be
13--1
responsible for all aspects of the architectural costs associated with the project if it
should proceed. Those costs would likely range between $15-20,000. Based on those
considerations, City staff has pursued a negotiated lease concept.
In the final analysis, the City must consider the public perception and potential negative
impact of proceeding with a process other than competitive bidding and decide if it is
the appropriate course of action for this proposed project. If a competitive bidding
process was directed by the City Council, it is doubtful that Mr. Sachs or the City would
choose to proceed with this project.
Public Purpose
The expenditure of public funds in this instance is lawful if it can be reasonably
determined that the project enhances the operation of the public ice arena as a whole.
The expenditure would also be considered appropriate if the space constructed could
be converted to another public use in the foreseeable future.
While it is reasonably clear that the ice arena operation would be more attractive and
unique with the addition of Hat Trick Hockey, it is primarily a benefit for users of the
facility and would likely be a greater direct benefit to customers than the arena itself.
While enhancing the overall desirability of the ice arena, the addition of Hat Trick
Hockey would not lead to the rental of additional ice time.
Another consideration would be the foreseeable use of the facility if Hat Trick Hockey
did not succeed in their commercial endeavor or if the City chose not to renew a lease
once it expired. The current City Hall facility is crowded both in terms of office space
and available parking. One potential long-term benefit could be the use of the
proposed facility to house a self-contained operation that is currently at City Hall. For
example, the City's licensing operation could be transferred to the new building where
there would be more than adequate space for operations and customer parking. The
move would also free up office space and parking at the current City Hall site. In this
scenario the lessee would have paid for a portion of the capital costs of a public facility
which would later be used for general government operations.
Cost and Return on Investment
The cost to build the facility would be approximately $228,000. That figure includes the
cost of constructing the additional 2,000 square feet addition for Hat Trick Hockey and
re-orienting the vestibule. The cost of re-doing the vestibule would be approximately
$20,000, and would serve both ice arena operations and Hat Trick Hockey. The
$20,000 cost would likely be split equally by the City and Hat Trick.
The lease agreement would have to be structured to provide a minimum return on the
City's investment to include the City's lost interest earnings so the lease would have to
be structured with a minimum 7% interest factor built into the payment structure. In
• reality, the payment structure would likely be at 7% for the first year and would ascend
upwards thereafter; more sharply in the last three or four years of a lease.
i3-,2
The overall term of any lease recommended for this project would be no longer than six
years. It is in the City's best interest to be able to re-evaluate the use of the facility or to
test the market for such a facility in a relatively short period of time.
In addition to the base lease payments that would be included in an agreement with Hat
Trick Hockey, the terms would also have to include a mechanism to provide the City
with participation in a percentage of gross revenue over a certain threshold amount. If
the operation is very successful, the City would directly share in additional profits from
the operation in addition to recovering the principal, the interest cost for the money and
any additional load factors built into the lease.
Finally, Hat Trick Hockey would also have to reimburse the City approximately $300 per
month for future lost revenue due to skate sharpening and the sale of miscellaneous
supplies which would go to Hat Trick.
Source of Fundina
Source of funding for constructing the addition to the ice arena would have to be
attained through an inter-fund loan from one of the other City's existing funds. The
principal amount and 7% interest factor would be returned to the originating fund as
repayment. Any additional amounts would be allocated to the ice arena as a cost factor
for providing the facility. The lease payment structure requested by Hat Trick Hockey
• would not allow for return on investment above a 7 or 7 1/2 % for the first two years of
operation and would likely not be greater than 8 or 9% in the last years of the lease.
With such a rate of return, there certainly is not a great profit margin for the City in the
lease.
Another minor benefit would be that the City would receive 19% of the property taxes
estimated to be a total of about $9,000 for the first payable year. The taxes would likely
increase in future years.
Another consideration with respect to the source of funding is that the City will shortly
be in a position of needing to provide up-front funds for the potential construction of a
City maintenance facility. That facility would require much of the available cash the City
may have to allow to construct the facility while minimizing the potential for having to
resort to borrowing funds outside of City sources. Certainly one public policy
consideration would be whether the City wishes to utilize approximately $225,000 for
this facility with the potential of needing those funds for a maintenance facility within the
next two or three years. Lastly, while the arena should ultimately be fitted with a fire
sprinkler system, the addition of the Hat Trick facility will require it to be done at the time
of construction. The cost of a fire suppression system is projected to be approximately
$1-2,000.
11
13-3
41 Commission Recommendations
The Planning Commission and Community Services Commission have both reviewed
the Hat Trick Hockey concept and acted upon it. The Planning Commission looked at
the zoning issue and made a recommendation that it be viewed as an incidental use
upon consideration by the City Council. The Community Services Commission has also
recommended that the concept proceed forward, although not by a unanimous vote.
Concerns of the Community Services Commission included the use of City funds for
this purpose, the look of competitive bidding for the lease of space and the potential
precedent of such a facility.
Staff Position
The staff is neither recommending nor opposing the proposal by Hat Trick Hockey.
Since the idea was presented by Mr. Sachs, there has been an in depth staff review of
this matter as reflected in this Council Letter. The project has both its positive and
negative aspects. The difficult decision is balancing the practical and public policy
considerations required to proceed with this project.
Recommended Motion:
It is recommended that the City Council consider the concept of constructing an
addition to the Richfield Ice Arena for lease to Hat Trick Hockey and either approve or
reject the concept idea for further consideration.
Basis of Recommendation:
1. Tom Sachs, the owner of Hat Trick Hockey, has approached the City of Richfield
with a proposal to have the City construct an addition to the ice arena and lease it
to him for a new Hat Trick Hockey facility.
2. Mr. Sachs is currently at a decision point in his existing facility. He must make a
decision whether to continue to lease that site or seek a new site, and must have
an answer to his question in the very near future.
3. Staff has reviewed the issue carefully and has determined the issues to be
considered and what steps must be taken to proceed with this concept.
4. Mr. Sachs has engaged an architect to prepare preliminary plans for the proposed
ice arena addition for the Hat Trick Hockey facility.
5. The proposal presents an opportunity for consideration which could benefit both
Mr. Sachs and the City.
Alternative Recommendation:
1. The City Council could postpone consideration of this item and ask for additional
,? information.
15-1
2. The City Council could begin to consider this matter and continue discussion to
another meeting seeking either more information and/or public input. Any delay
may somewhat jeopardize the viability for the project for 1997.
Discussion/Decision Mode:
If the concept is idea is approved by the City Council, the next step would be for staff to
prepare two Council items for the February 24 agenda. The first item would be to
prepare a lease agreement for approval and direct staff to proceed with having Mr.
Sachs engage an architect to prepare plans and specifications for bid. The second
item would be for the City Council to formally consider the zoning issue regarding the
incidental use of the ice arena facility in a residential neighborhood and determine
whether or not it was an allowable use.
Respectfully submitted,
James D. Prosser
City Manager
JDP:cak
C7
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•
CITY OF RICHFIELD, MINNESOTA
Council Letter No. 53
Agenda February 10, 1997
Issue Statement:
First reading of transitory ordinance providing funding for certain capital improvements
from the Special Revenue Fund.
Background:
City Charter Section 7.12, Subd. 2 requires that Special Revenue Funds used for
capital improvements must be authorized by ordinance.
At the December 9, 1996 City Council meeting, the City Council authorized $525,000 of
Special Revenue Funds for the improvements to several City parks in 1997. In
addition, the 1997 Capital Improvement Budget provides for expenditure for all types of
funds contained in the budget document including county funds, municipal state aid,
user fees, federal grants and state grants, however, authorization by ordinance is not
required for these expenditures.
While the total 1997 Capital Improvements Budget (CIB) includes total budgeted
expenditures of $9,506,436 the portion of CIB concerning proposed funding from the
Special Revenue fund is $500,000 as shown below:
Sheridan Park
Wood Lake Bridges/Docks
Ice Arena Lockerrooms
Ice Arena Lockerrooms'
$ 400,000
$ 89,500
$ 10,500
$110,000
A transitory ordinance is necessary to finalize these appropriations pursuant to City
Charter.
funds to be used for the Ice Arena lockerroom improvement.
1 This amount is a carryover from the 1996 transitory ordinance. The original ordinance
approved by the City Council stated that this $110,000 was budgeted for a 100 car
parking lot at Veterans Memorial Park. However, the City Council reallocated those
Recommended Motion:
Approve first reading of the transitory ordinance providing for the expenditure of funds
from the Special Revenue Fund for certain capital improvements and schedule the
public hearing and second reading for March 10, 1997.
•
Basis for Recommendation:
1. On December 9, 1996, the City Council approved the 1997 Capital Improvement
Budget, which includes an expenditure of $500,000 of Special Revenue Funds for
improvements to several City parks.
2. Under Section 3.09 of the City Charter, a transitory ordinance becomes effective
30 days after publication of the second hearing notice. The ordinance
requirements must be completed early enough in 1997 so that the capital projects
can be initiated on a timely basis, completed, and the fund expended.
3. In order for the timely start of the project under consideration in the Capital
Improvement Budget, it is suggested that the first reading of the transitory
ordinance take place on February 10 and the public hearing and second reading
be completed at the March 10, 1997 City Council meeting.
Alternative Recommendation:
1. The City Council could postpone the first reading of the transitory ordinance to a
future City Council meeting.
2. The City Council could decide to authorize none or only a portion of the
expenditures identified from special revenue in the CIB.
Discussion/Decision Mode:
In order to proceed with improvements approved on a timely basis, first reading
approval of this transitory ordinance would be desirable on February 10, 1997 so that
the public hearing and second reading could take place on March 10, 1997.
Respec ly submitted,
Jam D. Prosser
City Manager
JDP:cak
BILL NO.
TRANSITORY ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE EXPENDITURE OF MONEY FROM
THE SPECIAL REVENUE FUND FOR CERTAIN CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS
CITY OF RICHFIELD DOES ORDAIN:
Section 1: It is found and determined to be necessary and expedient for the City to
expend money from the Special Revenue Fund for the making of capital improvements
listed in Section 2 hereof, for which the City would be authorized to issue general
obligation bonds.
Section 2: The capital improvements and amounts of expenditures for such
improvements which are authorized to be paid from the Special Revenue Fund under
Section 7.12, Subdivision 2 of the City Charter, are as follows:
Sheridan Park
Wood Lake Bridges/Docks
Ice Arena Lockerrooms
Ice Arena Lockerrooms'
$ 400,000
$ 89,500
$ 10,500
$110,000
i ' This amount is a carryover from the 1996 transitory ordinance. The original ordinance
approved by the City Council stated that this $110,000 was budgeted for a 100 car
parking lot at Veterans Memorial Park. However, the City Council reallocated those
funds to be used for the Ice Arena lockerroom improvement.
Section 3: The expenditures herein authorized shall be made pursuant to such
contracts as are authorized from time to time by Council action.
Passed by the City Council of the City of Richfield this
ATTEST:
Thomas P. Ferber, City Clerk
th day of , 1997.
Martin J. Kirsch, Mayor
0
CITY OF RICHFIELD, MINNESOTA
Council Letter No. 5,2
Agenda February 10, 1997
Issue Statement:
Public hearing and second reading consideration of an amendment to the City
Ordinance Code by amending Sections 300.03, 300.09, and adding Sections 105.11
and 300.19 concerning City department organization.
Background:
Chapter III of the City's Administrative Code establishes the organizational structure of
the City. Section 300.03 sets forth the departments and department directors.
Sections 300.5 - 300.17 describe the general duties of each department director.
Section 300.03, which establishes the City's department and department directors, now
reads as follows:
Executive Department - City Manager
Administrative Services Department - Director of Administrative Services
Public Safety Department - Director of Public Safety
Community Services Department - Director of Community Services
Community Development Department - Director of Community Development
Legal Department - City Attorney
Liquor Department - Liquor Operations Director
• Divisions within departments shall be established from time to time by resolution
of the City Council with the recommendation of the Manager.
After the resignation of the Community Services Director in early 1996, a more
traditional approach to providing services provided by the Community Services
Department has been implemented. Based upon the success of that model, I am now
recommending to the City Council that the Community Services Department and the
Community Services Director position both be abolished and that it be replaced with the
following departments and department directors.
Public Works Department - Director of Public Works
Recreation Services Department - Director of Recreation Services
The Public Works Department would include the engineering, administration, water,
wastewater and storm sewer maintenance and street lighting utilities, street and park
maintenance, government buildings, central garage, forestry, LHN maintenance
divisions.
The Recreation Services Department would include the recreation services, nature
center, and community center divisions.
The packaging of City services along these department lines appears to be the most
effective way to provide these services to the public with the greatest customer service
focus. It also maximizes the City's existing staff resources and expertise.
Section 300.09 currently defines the duties of the former Director of Community
Services. It is suggested that it be amended to reflect the duties of the Director of
Public Works.
Section 300.19 would be a new section which defines the duties and responsibilities of
the proposed Recreation Services Director.
References to the Community Services Department and/or Community Services
Director in other sections of the City Ordinance Code will be revised by a new general
provision to Chapter I of the code by adding Section 105.11.
The City Council adopted first reading consideration of the proposed ordinances on
January 13, 1997.
Recommended Motion:
Conduct the public hearing and give second reading consideration of the amendments
to the City Code by amending Section 300.03, 300.09 and adding Sections 105.11 and
300.19; and schedule public hearing and second reading for February 10, 1997.
Basis of Recommendation:
1. The current Community Services Department structure is unwieldy and not the
most effective use of City resources.
2. A restructuring to a Public Works and Recreation Department structure will
provide for a much better use of City resources in providing these services.
3. Notice of the public hearing was done according to ordinance requirements.
Alternative Recommendation:
1. The City Council could decide to keep the existing departmental configuration.
2. The City Council could decide to change to another department configuration than
the one recommended.
Discussion/Decision Mode:
This item has been scheduled for February 10, 1997 so that the ordinance change can
be completed as soon as possible.
Respectfully submitted,
Jam s . Prosser
City anager
JDP:cak
0
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER I OF THE CITY CODE BY
AMENDING SUBSECTION 105.11 AND CHAPTER III
SUBSECTIONS 300.03 AND 300.09 AND ADDING 300.19
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RICHFIELD DOES ORDAIN:
Chapter I
Section 1. Subsection 105.11 is added to the Richfield City Code to read
as follows:
105.11. Special Definitions Wherever the term community services
appears in this City Code, it shall mean either public works or recreation
services as determined by the city manager. Wherever the term
community services director appears in the City Code it shall mean city
manager or city manager's designee.
Chapter III
Section 1. Subsection 300.03 of the Richfield City Code is amended to
read as follows:
300.03. Departmental and divisional organization. The administrative
service of the city is divided into the following departments and heads
thereof:
Executive Department - City Manager
Administrative Services Department - Director of Administrative
Services
Public Safety Department - Director of Public Safety
Public Works Department - Director of Public Works
Recreation Services Department - Director of Recreation Services
Community Development Department - Director of Community
Development
Legal Department - City Attorney
Liquor Department - Liquor Operations Director
Divisions within departments shall be established from time to time by
resolution of the city council with the recommendation of the manager.
0 Section 2. Subsection 300.09 of the Richfield City Code is amended
to read as follows:
11-3
s 300.09. Public works department: duties of director.
The director of ^^m`'`''URity 6eFViGes public works is responsible to the
manager for the organization, planning, administration and coordination of
public works of the city. The director of 69 ity
seWiGea public works shall perform the duties described in the job
description for that position and any additional duties assigned by the
manager. (Amended, Bill No. 1995-18, Sec. 2; Bill No. 1996-3, Sec. 3)
Section 3. Subsection 300.19 is added to the Richfield City Code to
read as follows:
300.19. Recreation services department: duties of director. The director
of recreation services is responsible to the manager for the organization.
planning, administration and coordination of the recreation services of the
city. The director of recreation services shall perform the duties described
in the job description for that position and any additional duties assigned
by the manager.
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Richfield, Minnesota this 10th day of
February, 1997.
Martin J. Kirsch, Mayor
ATTEST:
Thomas P. Ferber, City Clerk
0
/D
CITY OF RICHFIELD, MINNESOTA
Council Letter No. 51
Agenda February 10, 1997
Issue Statement:
Public hearing and second reading of a transitory ordinance to vacate 17 feet of street
right-of-way adjacent to 6938-40, 6944-46 and 6958 Cedar Avenue.
Background:
The applicant, Steve Jensen, owner of The Transmission Shop, is requesting that the
City vacate 17 feet of street right-of-way adjacent to his three properties along Cedar
Avenue. He is proposing to demolish two duplexes and expand his existing
transmission business. The existing lots are 122-feet deep, making it difficult to fit the
proposed project on the site. With the 17 feet, the proposal would meet parking
setback requirements, parking stall and aisle dimension requirements, and allow for one
fewer access points to the site.
Before the construction of Trunk Highway 77, Cedar Avenue carried higher volumes of
traffic than it does today and required a larger right-of-way. At the location of the
applicant's properties, the right-of-way is 50 feet from the center line. A vacation of 17
feet would reduce the right-of-way to 33 feet from center line, a standard right-of-way
for most residential streets in Richfield. This amount of right-of-way has been vacated
i in the past for several parcels south of 70th Street.
Recommended Motion:
Conduct a public hearing and approve second reading of a transitory ordinance
vacating 17 feet of Cedar Avenue right-of-way adjacent to 6938-40, 6944-46 and 6958
Cedar Avenue with the following stipulations:
1. That a conditional use permit be approved for the expansion of the existing
Transmission Shop.
2. That the owner do the necessary title work to confirm that he has the right to
ownership of the subject right-of-way.
3. That the owner record the vacation with Hennepin County.
Basis of Recommendation:
1. There is 50 feet of right-of-way from the center line of Cedar Avenue; vacation of
17 feet will allow 33 feet, a standard distance for this type of street.
2. It is unlikely that the City will need to widen Cedar Avenue in the future given the
existence of Trunk Highway 77.
3. Portions of the right-of-way along Cedar Avenue have been vacated in the past.
•
%D._ /
4. The right-of-way is needed to enable the property owner to proceed with his
expansion plans.
5. The proposed expansion and use of right-of-way is consistent with the
Comprehensive Plan, which recommends non-residential uses along Cedar
Avenue.
6. The City Engineer has reviewed the proposal and supports the proposed vacation.
7. A utility easement would be maintained over the vacated property.
8. Notice of the hearing was published in the Sun-Current.
9. The City Council held first reading on January 13, 1997 and set the public hearing
and second reading for February 10, 1997.
Alternative Recommendation:
Deny the right-of-way vacation.
Discussion/Decision Mode:
A public hearing and second reading are scheduled at 7:00 p.m. on February 10, 1997.
The hearing will be held in the City Council Chambers of Richfield City Hall, 6700
Portland Avenue.
Resp ully submitted,
Ja D. Prosser
City Manager
JDP:cak
C?
0 ORDINANCE NO.
A TRANSITORY ORDINANCE VACATING STREET RIGHT-OF-WAY FOR 6938-40,
6944=46 AND 6958 CEDAR AVENUE
THE CITY OF RICHFIELD DOES ORDAIN:
Section 1. The following described land has been dedicated to the public for
street right-of-way purposes for Cedar Avenue:
The west 17 feet of the Cedar Avenue right of way from the easterly extension of
the north line of Lot 7, Block 1, Cedar Sunrise Third Addition to the northeasterly.
continuation of the north right of way line of Diagonal Boulevard.
Section 2. The fee owner of the abutting land, Stephen Jensen, has petitioned
for the vacation of that part of Cedar Avenue as described in Section 1 of this
ordinance.
Section 3. The area to be vacated is occupied by a public water main. Provided
that a drainage and utility easement is reserved in favor of the City of Richfield, the
proposed vacation of the street easement will not adversely affect the ability of the City
to maintain, repair, or replace the utility located within the area to be vacated.
40 Section 4. The City Council finds that there is no longer a public need for street
right-of-way over that portion of land as described in Section 1.
Section 5. The street right-of-way over that portion of Cedar Avenue, as
described in Section 1 of this Ordinance, is hereby vacated; reserving, however, to the
City of Richfield a drainage and utility easement over the area vacated.
Passed by the City Council of the City of Richfield, Minnesota this 10th day of
February, 1997.
Martin J. Kirsch, Mayor
ATTEST:
Thomas P. Ferber, City Clerk
140-3
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9
CITY OF RICHFIELD, MINNESOTA
Council Letter No. 50
Agenda February 10, 1997
Issue Statement:
Public hearing to amend the conditional use permit for 6938-40, 6944-46 and 6958
Cedar Avenue to allow an expansion of the existing auto mechanical garage.
Background:
Steve Jensen, owner of The Transmission Shop, is proposing to construct an 8,594
square foot addition onto the existing automotive repair building at 6958 Cedar Avenue.
The addition would add six service bays and 5,250 square feet of warehouse and office
space to the building. The addition would result in a 13,622 square foot building with 12
service bays, office and warehouse space.
A 15 foot buffer of evergreens and fencing exists along the western property line. The
line of evergreens would be continued along the property line. The rear of the 21 to 24
foot tall building has no openings and serves as a large screen to Trunk Highway 77;
the landscaping would soften the visual impact of the building.
There is a four to six foot grade change between the subject property and the two
northernmost residential properties to the west. Landscaping is being recommended
because. six to eight foot tall fencing along the west property line would provide little
benefit to these two residential properties and would likely cause drainage concerns.
At the City Council's request, staff contacted the owners of the four abutting properties
to the west of the subject property. Staff verified that the residents were aware of the
plans and discussed the issue of the buffer area. Two residents were satisfied with the
current situation and had no concerns with the proposed expansion. A third resident
expressed a preference for fencing but understood that the grade change would make
fencing on the commercial property ineffective. A fourth resident expressed a desire to
see things stay the way they are.
At the Planning Commission meeting in November, the owner of the property to the
north of the subject property expressed concern about the buffer along the northern
property. The Planning Commission recommended that additional fencing and
landscaping be provided along the north property line. It is noted on the landscape plan
that additional fencing and landscaping should be provided as requested by this
property owner.
The recommended motion for approval contains the stipulation that the Community
Development Director have final approval over the landscape plan to provide some
flexibility to explore alternative solutions if the recommended landscape plan does not
• provide adequate buffering.
The current site lacks adequate parking. The proposed expansion will help address
this issue by adding parking for a total of 38 parking spaces in the lot as well as five
spaces inside the warehouse area. The added service bays would also provide space
to store any vehicles that need to be kept overnight within the building.
Recommended Motion:
Conduct a public hearing and approve an amended conditional use permit to allow an
expansion of the existing auto mechanical garage at 6958 Cedar Avenue with the
following stipulations:
1. That the final landscape and fencing plan be approved by the Community
Development Director and a cash escrow be submitted.
2. That the stormwater management plan be approved by the City Engineer.
3. That a utility plan be approved by the City Engineer.
4. That a sediment and erosion control plan be approved by the City Engineer.
5. That a lighting plan for the parking lot be approved by the Community Development
Director.
6. That the exterior building material be approved by the Community Development
Director.
7. That the buffer yard not be used for storage or any other use but as a buffer yard.
8. That the owner file a deed restriction committing five interior parking spaces in the
warehouse area.
9. That the City Council approve a rezoning of 6938-40, 6944-46 and a portion of 6958
Cedar Avenue from MR-1 to C-2.
10. That the City Council approve the vacation of 17 feet of street right-of-way adjacent
to the subject properties along Cedar Avenue.
Basis of Recommendation:
1. The proposed use is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan.
2. The proposed addition addresses the needs of the business for additional parking
and building space.
3. The proposed parking meets City requirements for this type of use.
0
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0 4. The orientation of the building and proposed landscaping provide a buffer
between the use and the adjacent residential property. In addition, it provides a
buffer between the residential property and Trunk Highway 77.
5. The Hearing Examiner granted a setback variance to allow the addition to be built
in line with the existing building.
6. Notice of the hearing was published in the Sun-Current and mailed to property
owners and occupants within 350 feet of the subject property.
7. On November 26, 1997 the Planning Commission voted unanimously to
recommend approval of the conditional use permit.
Alternative Recommendation:
Deny the request for an amended conditional use permit.
Discussion/Decision Mode:
A public hearing is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on February 10, 1997. The hearing will be
held in the City Council Chambers of Richfield City Hall, 6700 Portland Avenue. A
decision must be made by March 2, 1997 or the applicant must agree to an extension
of the 120-day time period.
Respectfully submitted,
Jame . Prosser
City Manager
JDP:cak
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• CITY OF RICHFIELD, MINNESOTA
Council Letter No. 49
Agenda February 10, 1997
Issue Statement:
Public hearing and second reading of an ordinance amendment rezoning 6938-40,
6944-46 and a portion of 6958 Cedar Avenue from MR-1 (two family residence) to C-2
(general commercial).
Background:
The applicant, Steve Jensen, owner of The Transmission Shop, is requesting City
approval to rezone property at 6938-40, 6944-46 and a portion of 6958 Cedar Avenue
from MR-1 to C-2. The rezoning would enable the applicant to remove the two
duplexes currently located on 6938-40 and 6944-46 Cedar Avenue and construct an
8,594 square foot addition onto the existing automotive repair building at 6958 Cedar
Avenue. The addition would add six service bays and 5,250 square feet of office and
warehouse space.
An amendment to the conditional use permit is also required for the proposed
expansion (separate item on this agenda). The applicant has also petitioned for the
vacation of 17 feet of excess street right-of-way along Cedar Avenue (separate item on
this agenda).
• Recommended Motion:
Conduct a public hearing and approve second reading of an ordinance amendment
rezoning 6938-40, 6944-46 and a portion of 6958 Cedar Avenue from MR-1 (two family
residence) to C-2 (general commercial) with the following stipulation:
That the existing duplexes be removed and replaced with an appropriate
commercial use.
Basis of Recommendation:
1. The proposed zoning is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan to develop non-
residential uses along Cedar Avenue.
2. Approval of the rezoning would enable the applicant to expand the existing
building at 6958 Cedar Avenue and provide adequate space to serve the needs of
the business.
3. Notice of the hearing was be published in the Sun-Current and mailed to property
owners and tenants within 350 feet of the subject properties.
4. On November 26, 1996 the Planning Commission voted unanimously to
recommend approval of the rezoning.
j, /
Alternative Recommendation:
Deny the rezoning.
Discussion/Decision Mode:
The public hearing and second reading are scheduled at 7:00 p.m. on February 10,
1997. A decision must be made by March 2, 1997 or the applicant must agree to an
extension of the 120-day time period.
Respectf y submitted,
Jame D. Prosser
City Manager
JDP:cak
•
0
• Y-)-
Bill No. 1997-
AMENDMENT TO APPENDIX 1
OF THE CITY CODE
OF THE CITY OF RICHFIELD
(6938-40, 6944-46 and north 30 feet of 6958 Cedar Avenue)
THE CITY OF RICHFIELD DOES ORDAIN:
Appendix I which describes the boundaries of various zoning districts of the City
is hereby amended in the following respect: . I
A. Section 3, Paragraph (17) is amended to read as follows:
(17) M--4,17 (W side of Cedar near Diagonal Boulevard) That area lying
between the center line of Cedar Avenue and a line distant 173 feet westerly and
parallel thereto, and "°h.rom the northerly line of Lot 7, Block 1 Cedar Sunrise
Third Addition to the center lines of 70th aRd 73rd Streets. (See Reference #3 of
attached Boundary Conflicts).
B. Section 11, Paragraph (37) is amended to read as follows:
0 (37) M-4 (Cedar Ave near 70th) Lots 5 through 68, Block 1, Cedar Sunrise Third
Addition.
This amendment constitutes a rezoning of 6938-40, 6944-46 and the north 30
feet of 6958 Cedar Avenue from MR-1 to C-2.
Passed by the City Council of the City of Richfield, Minnesota this 10th day of
February, 1997.
Martin J. Kirsch, Mayor
ATTEST:
Thomas P. Ferber, City Clerk
0
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PROPOSED ADDITION
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?
CITY OF RICHFIELD, MINNESOTA
Council Letter No. 48
Agenda February 10, 1997
Issue Statement:
Public hearing and second reading of a transitory ordinance to authorize the sale of the
City-owned property at 7645 Nicollet Avenue to the Richfield HRA for Richfield
Rediscovered site development.
Background:
The City purchased the former video store at 7645 Nicollet Avenue for the 77th Street
improvement project. A portion of the property was used for the street; the remaining
lot, 83x 124', is available for development. In October, the City Council approved the
rezoning of the parcel from commercial (C-1) to residential (MR-1) based on its
proximity to other residential development and its undesirability for commercial use. A
two-family housing concept is envisioned due to its location on the corridor. The HRA
has developed a potential plan for the site.
Recommended Motion:
Conduct a public hearing and second reading of the transitory ordinance which
authorizes the sale of the City-owned property at 7645 Nicollet Avenue to the Richfield
HRA for Richfield Rediscovered site development, and authorize publication of a
110 transitory ordinance.
Basis of Recommendation:
1. Rezoning the property has been completed.
2. The property is residentially zoned and surrounded on the west, east and north by
residential development.
3. The HRA has a development concept ready for implementation and has
authorized the purchase from the City at $36,800.
4. The City purchased this property for the 77th Street Project using MSA funds.
MSA funds may only be used for road-related purposes. MSA rules require that
land proceeds reflect the "highest and best use" established by a professional
appraiser. The $36,800 was set by an appraisal report.
5. Pending City Council authorization, development could begin spring 1997.
Alternative Recommendation:
The City Council can choose not to sell to the HRA at this time. However, the HRA is
prepared to proceed.
0
Discussion/Decision Mode:
Timely sale of the property from the City to the HRA requires publication of a transitory
ordinance following the February 10, 1997 meeting. The ordinance would be effective
March 24, 1997.
Respectfully submitted,
Ja D. Prosser
City Manager
JDP:cak
9
0
TRANSITORY ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING AND PROVIDING FOR THE SALE, TRANSFER OR
OTHER DISPOSITION AND CONVEYANCE OF CERTAIN CITY OWNED REAL
PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE CITY OF RICHFIELD, COUNTY OF HENNEPIN,
STATE OF MINNESOTA (7645 NICOLLET AVENUE)
The City of Richfield Does Ordain:
Section 1.
The following described real property located in the City of Richfield, County of
Hennepin, State of Minnesota, is hereby authorized to be sold, transferred or otherwise
disposed of, and conveyed by the City to the Housing and Redevelopment Authority in
and for the City of Richfield as herein provided:
The northerly 8 feet of Lot 9 and all of Lot 10 in Block 4, A.G. Bogen
Company's Nicollet Avenue Addition, Hennepin County, Minnesota, and
having the street address of 7645 Nicollet Avenue South, Richfield,
Minnesota.
Section 2.
The Mayor and City Manager are hereby authorized to take all action as is required to
sell, transfer; or otherwise dispose of and convey the real property described in the
foregoing Section 1, including, byway of illustration and not limitation, the execution of
all documents, purchase agreements, deeds of conveyance, and other instructions
connected with such sale, transfer or disposition and conveyance.
Passed by the City Council of the City of Richfield this 10th day of February,
1997.
Martin J. Kirsch, Mayor
ATTEST:
Thomas P. Ferber, City Clerk
0
CITY OF RICHFIELD, MINNESOTA
Council Letter No. 47
Agenda February 10, 1997
Issue Statement:
Public hearing to amend the conditional use permit for 7608 Knox Avenue to allow
additional parking for the taxi dispatch and repair business.
Background:
Last fall, the City Council considered a recommendation by staff to revoke the
conditional use .permit for 7608 Knox Avenue. The owner of Minnesota Taxi had
repeatedly violated the terms of the conditional use permit by over parking cars in the
front lot and on the street. The City Council directed staff to consider adding flexibility
to the conditional use permit so additional cars could be parked in the front parking lot.
Staff recommends that cars be allowed to park in front of two of the service bays. This
option would provide a total of four regular parking spaces in front of the building. This
parking should only be allowed during daytime hours to prevent the property from being
used for taxi storage. In addition, the business should be required to maintain a
contract to store taxis at an alternate location.
Parking should not be allowed in front of the third bay because it is the only means of
accessing the rear parking lot.
Recommended Motion:
Conduct a public hearing and approve an amended conditional use permit that allows
four regular parking spaces in front of the building for the taxi dispatch and repair
business at 7608 Knox Avenue with the following stipulations:
1. That the business not park more than two regular (non-handicapped) vehicles in
front of the building between the hours of 6 p.m. and 7 a.m.
2. That the business maintain an arrangement to provide off-site storage of vehicles
and that evidence of the arrangement be kept on file with the Community
Development Department.
3. That the third service bay remain empty and clear to allow access to the parking in
the rear of the building.
Basis of Recommendation:
1. The building has little parking available and options for improving the function of the
site are limited.
2. The City Council directed staff and the Planning Commission to consider increased
parking flexibility for the business.
6-1
• 3. The business has violated terms of the conditional use permit in the past and should
not be given unlimited flexibility.
4. Notice of the hearing was published in the Sun-Current and mailed to property
owners within 350 feet of the subject property.
5. On January 28, 1997 the Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend
approval of the amended conditional use permit.
Alternative Recommendation:
Deny the amended conditional use permit and direct staff to bring consideration of the
revocation of the conditional use permit back before the Council.
Discussion/Decision Mode:
A public hearing is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on February 10, 1997. The hearing will be
held in the City Council Chambers of Richfield City Hall, 6700 Portland Avenue.
Respectf I submitted,
James . Prosser
City Manager
JDP:cak
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CITY OF RICHFIELD, MINNESOTA
Council Letter No. 46
Agenda February 10, 1997
Issue Statement:
Public hearing to consider application for a new 1997 tavern (dance) license for Chi
Chi's Inc., d/b/a Chi Chi's Mexican Restaurante, 7717 Nicollet Avenue.
Background:
On December 11, 1996, the City received the application for a new Tavern (dance)
license for Chi Chi's Mexican Restaurant. The applicant has paid the required license
fees.
On December 9, 1996, a public hearing was held to consider 1997 on-sale and Sunday
liquor licenses for Chi Chi's Mexican Restaurante. At that time, it was decided that the
license would be granted only for the time period of January 1, 1997 to March 31, 1997,
with a thorough statistical review of Public Safety contacts to be conducted to
determine if Chi Chi's action plan has been successful in reducing problems at the site.
Chi Chi's has put an action plan into effect that proposes the following actions:
1. Chi Chi's will continue its in-house training program on alcohol awareness. They
hired an outside provider to provide an in-depth seminar that was mandatory for all
wait and bar staff. This seminar was held on Sunday, December 22,1996, and was
provided by the Minnesota Restaurant Association. Officer Bill Nikituk attended this
session.
2. Hired security personnel have been equipped with voice communications devices
in order to stay in touch with management at all points of the premises.
3. A cover charge has been put in place on weekends in an attempt to control the
crowd size.
4. A mandatory coat check policy on weekends has been put in place in an effort to
reduce the likelihood of concealed weapons being introduced to the premises.
5. Chi Chi's is considering the redesigning of the dance area in an effort to alleviate
crowded conditions and to update the facility in general. This is assuming that a
tavern license for dancing will be approved. The dance floor will be downsized by
one-half and relocated to a gameroom area.
Recommended Motion:
Continue the public hearing to April 14, 1997 to defer action on the request for a new
1997 tavern (dance) license for Chi Chi's Mexican Restaurante until after the first
quarter of 1997.
S-1
Basis of Recommendation:
There does appear to be a need to closely monitor Chi Chi's efforts during the first
quarter of 1997 in dealing with the significant increase in alcohol related calls they
experienced during 1996. It would be appropriate to consider the tavern license
request at that time.
Alternative Recommendation:
The Council could decide to grant the license at this time which would mean that
dancing could begin immediately.
Discussion/Decision Mode:
The request for a new 1997 tavern (dance) license for Chi Chi's Mexican Restaurante,
7717 Nicollet Avenue, is being submitted for consideration at this time.
Respectf ly submitted,
Jam D. Prosser
City Manager
• JDP:cak
0
ya
CITY OF RICHFIELD, MINNESOTA
Council Letter No. 45
Agenda February 10, 1997
Issue Statement:
Consideration of purchase for a replacement logging recorder for the Public Safety
Communications Center in the amount of $24,941.42.
Background:
Public Safety records audio from the 911 and other phone lines used by dispatchers.
Several radio frequencies are also recorded. Copies of phone calls or radio
transmissions are frequently required for criminal cases and occasionally needed to
followup on complaints regarding employee conduct. The current logging recorder is
nine years old and in need of replacement. The frequency of repair is increasing, the
annual maintenance contract is no longer cost effective, and replacement tapes are
very expensive.
Based on preliminary cost estimates, $55,000 was budgeted for 1997 to replace the old
Dictaphone 9000. Public Safety has received two very competitive proposals for
replacement units. Loffler Business Systems has proposed a replacement unit for a
total cost of $24,941.42 (includes tax and installation). Dictaphone's proposal for a
comparable unit totaled $32,866.55.
Both units meet the department's minimum requirement for monitoring 16 phone or
radio channels. It should be noted that a logging recorder is needed regardless of
whether or not the dispatch center remains open. If a decision is. made to keep the
dispatch center open for the foreseeable future, the recorder will have to be expanded
by four to eight channels to provide comprehensive channel coverage.
Recommended Motion:
Approve the purchase of the Racal Wordnet logging recorder from Loffler for the Public
Safety Community Center in the amount of $24,941.42.
Basis of Recommendation:
1. The failure rate for the old logging recorder is not acceptable for use in a 911
dispatch center.
2. The Loffler proposal meets department requirements, is less expensive than the
Dictaphone proposal, and is well under the initial budget estimate.
3. Annual operating cost for the Racal recorder will be less than half that of the
current Dictaphone 9000.
4. Adequate funds are available in the 1997 adopted budget.
113-1
Alternative Recommendation:
1. Deny approval and continue to operate with the old unit.
Discussion/Decision Mode:
Approve the purchase of the Racal Wordnet Recorder from Loffler Business Systems
for $24,941.42.
Respectfully submitted,
Jam D. Prosser
City anager
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CITY OF RICHFIELD, MINNESOTA
Council Letter No.. 44
Agenda February 10, 1997
Issue Statement:
Consideration of resolution confirming City Manager's appointment of two resident
members to the 1997 Board of Equalization (Board of Review).
Background:
City Charter provides that the Local Board of Equalization shall consist of all of the City
Council Members and two Richfield residents experienced in real estate matters. The
purpose of the Board is to hear appeals from the property owners concerning their
property values.
Mr. Larry Emond, 6325 Russell Avenue, has once again indicated his willingness to
serve as a residential representative to the Board. He has been an independent
property appraiser for over 25 years and has served on the Richfield Board of Review
since 1983. Mr. Emond holds a Federal Appraisers License and is working primarily in
conducting property appraisals for financial institutions. He is also experienced in
building construction and held a real estate license. Mr. Emond has been a Richfield
resident for over 30 years and is very knowledgeable of the City. His previous input on.
the Richfield Board of Equalization has been extremely valuable as determinations and
appeals presented by Richfield citizens were considered.
The second Richfield resident under consideration for appointment for the 1997 Board
of Equalization is Glenn Erickson, 7240 Bryant Avenue. Mr. Erickson has been a
resident of Richfield since 1950 and has been in the property appraisal business since
1951. He first served on the Richfield Board of Review in 1991. His business has
predominately included appraisal of single family residential, duplex and fourplex
properties. The appraisals have included those for a mortgage loan business and a
number of appraisal audits. Mr. Erickson currently holds both an appraisers and real
estate brokers license. Like Mr. Emond, Mr. Erickson's previous service on the
Richfield Board of Equalization has been very valuable.
It is recommended that the compensation for resident members be set at $47.00 per
session or $18.75 per hour per session, whichever is greater.
Recommended Motion:
Approve the attached resolution confirming the appointment of Mr. Larry Emond and
Mr. Glenn Erickson to the 1997 Board of Equalization, at the proposed level of
compensation stated herein.
Basis for Recommendation:
1. Both Mr. Emond and Mr. Erickson are very knowledgeable and experienced in the
areas of real estate appraisals. They are also both licensed appraisers.
2. Mr. Emond and Mr. Erickson have served on the Richfield Board of Equalization in
the past and have done a very good job in that capacity.
3. It is required by City Charter that there be two resident representatives on the Board
of Equalization -who are knowledgeable in real estate matters.
Alternative Recommendation:
1. The City Council could select other qualified individuals as expert resident
representatives on the Board of Equalization, in place of either Mr. Emond or Mr.
Erickson or both.
Discussion/Decision Mode:
It is requested that the City Council set the appointment of Mr. Emond and Mr. Erickson
at the City Council meeting of February 10. The Board of Equalization will meet at 7:00
p.m. Monday, May 5, 1997. The appointment at the City Council meeting of February
10 ensures that City staff has adequate time to establish appointments to the Board.
Respec Ily submitted,
Ja a D. Prosser
City anager
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• RESOLUTION NO.
A RESOLUTION CONFIRMING CITY MANAGER'S APPOINTMENT OF
TWO RESIDENT MEMBERS TO THE BOARD OF EQUALIZATION
BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Richfield, Minnesota
hereby approves the City Manager's appointment of Mr. Lawrence Emond and Mr.
Glenn Erickson as 1997 resident members of the Board of Equalization as provided in
Chapter 7 of the City Charter.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that compensation for the two resident members
of the Board of Equalization be set at a minimum of $47.00 per session of the Board or
$18.75 per hour per session of the Board, whichever is greater.
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Richfield, Minnesota this 10th day of
February, 1997.
0 ATTEST:
Thomas P. Ferber, City Clerk
Martin J. Kirsch, Mayor
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CITY OF RICHFIELD, MINNESOTA
Council Letter No. 43
Agenda February 10, 1997
Issue Statement:
Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting awarded by the
Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA).
Background:
The City was recently notified that its comprehensive annual financial report for the
fiscal year ended December 31, 1995 qualifies for a Certificate of Achievement for
Excellence in Financial Reporting. The Certificate of Achievement is the highest from of
recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment
represents a significant accomplishment by the government and its management.
The GFOA, which is responsible for presenting the certification, is a nonprofit,
professional association serving 9,500 government finance professionals. The
Association provides a variety of technical publications in various fields of government
finance and represents the public community of Washington, D.C. The specific
comprehensive annual financial report was judged by an impartial panel to meet the
high standards of the program established by GFOA, including demonstrating a
constructive spirit of full disclosure effort to clearly communicate its financial story and
is motivate potential persons and users to read the financial report.
When a Certificate of Achievement is awarded to a government, an Award of Financial
Reporting Achievement is also given to the individual designated as primarily
responsible for having earned the certificate. This Award of Financial Reporting
Achievement will be presented to Chris Regis, Richfield's Finance Manager, on behalf
of the entire Finance Division.
This is the twelfth consecutive year that Richfield has earned the award.
Recommended Motion:
It is recommended that the City Council present the Certificate of Achievement for
Financial Reporting to Finance Manager Chris Regis on behalf of the Government
Finance Officers Association.
Basis for Recommendation:
1. The City has been notified by GFOA that the certificate has been attained and that
the presentation to the Finance Manager would be appropriate.
2. The City Council wishes to take such opportunities to recognize achievement of
City staff, especially at a public forum, such as City Council meeting.
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Alternative Recommendation:
• 1. The City Council could accept the award and make no mention of it at the City
.Council meeting.
Discussion/Decision Mode: -
Action on this item is suggested for February 10; 1997.
Respectfully submitted,
Jame D. Prosser
City Manager,
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