08-05-96 Worksession
CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
Richfield, Minnesota
Study Session
August 5, 1996
CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Kirsch at 7:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Members Present:Martin Kirsch, Mayor; Michael Sandahl; Susan Rosenberg; Russ
Susag; and Don Priebe.
Staff Present :James Prosser, City Manager; Steven Devich, Administrative
Services Director; Thomas Ferber, City Clerk; Bruce Palmborg,
Community Development Director; Gretchen Blank, Leisure
Services Coordinator; Jack Erskine, Public Safety Director; Mike
Eastling, City Engineer; Tom Foley, Transportation Engineer; Bruce
Nordquist, Housing Supervisor; and Jamie Verbrugge, Media
Assistant.
Item # I MEETING WITH RICHFIELD HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION.
S.S. LETTER NO. 33
City Manager Prosser reviewed Study Session Letter No. 33 regarding the City
Council’s annual meeting with the Human Rights Commission. The following Human
Rights Commission members were present:
Cheryl Binzen, Chair Tony Bibus
Connie McDonaldLaVonne Seemann
Ed Thom Scottye Holloway
Ron Glaub Dan Koenig
Study Session Minutes-2-August 5, 1996
Human Rights Commission Chair Binzen reported on the recent initiatives of the
Commission including the following:
x
Gene and Mary Jacobsen Outstanding Citizen Award
x
No Fault Grievance Program
x
Design and distribution of Human Rights Commission questionnaire with City
water bills
Commissioner Glaub reviewed the design, history, distribution, and response to the
questionnaire. He stated that the questionnaire was not a scientific survey but had
provided valuable information. He indicated the response rate was approximately 14% of
single family dwellings. He stated that the Commission was concerned about the inability
to reach the apartment residents indicating that RAMA had been contacted regarding how
to reach apartment residents. Commissioner Glaub stated that the Commission is
currently studying the data and how to use the data.
Council Member Susag suggested that the Commission should review the data and
make recommendations to the City Council on what needs to be done. He noted that
other community groups will also need to be involved and that education is an important
element.
City Manager Prosser stated that the Human Rights Commission is also working
with the Community Council on these issues.
Item # IIDISCUSSION OF POLICY AND STRATEGY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR
AIRPORT RELATED ISSUES. S.S. LETTER NO.34
City Manager Prosser reviewed Study Session Letter No. 34 regarding policy and
strategy recommendations for airport related issues.
Lois Howard, 6305 Thomas Avenue, stated opposition to the City’s lawsuit and
expenditures regarding the extension of Runway 4-22. She indicated that the action was
of no benefit to northwest Richfield regarding airport noise and suggested the City drop
the lawsuit to allow aircraft noise to be spread out. She discussed statistics regarding
noise events recorded by a temporary noise monitor placed in her back by the
Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) at her request, and visual observations of
airplanes for the period of July 26-31.
John Foggia, representing the MAC, answered questions regarding the recording
of noise events and DBA levels by the monitor.
Council Member Priebe explained that the City’s position was not in opposition to
the extension of Runway 4-22 but rather to moving the departure threshold 1/2 mile closer
to Richfield with a resultant increased impact on Richfield.
Study Session Minutes-3-August 5, 1996
Mrs. Howard stated concern that the City was paying for a lawsuit that would be of
greater benefit to Bloomington without Bloomington contributing to the cost.
Council Member Priebe indicated that the Bloomington Council did not get enough
votes to fund a portion of the lawsuit. He stated the Richfield City Council had felt the
impact on additional Richfield residents was significant enough to take the action.
Jack Howard, 6305 Thomas Avenue, reviewed a diagram of airport departure
tracks over Richfield and how they impact north Richfield. He discussed the impact of the
aircraft noise over his home and the sound events recorded at this location by the noise
monitor. He stated that Runway 4-22 should be allowed to be used to disperse and share
the noise impact indicating areas closer to the airport had sound insulation.
City Manager Prosser explained that the decrease in the number of people
impacted by the extension of Runway 4-22 would be offset by a net increase in the
number of people affected in other parts of Richfield. He explained that the MAC and the
Part 150 sound insulation program concentrated mitigation to the areas most severely
impacted by the noise. He stated spreading out noise to new areas would make
mitigation more costly and difficult. Mr. Prosser reviewed the City’s legislative initiatives
which resulted in 40% of the MSP PFC revenues being dedicated to sound insulation.
John Foggia discussed and answered questions regarding the Part 150 sound
insulation program, the additional sound insulation resulting from the recent legislation,
departure tracks, approach tracks, runway use, and operational procedures. He reviewed
the impact of the requirement that all aircraft be Stage III by the year 2000 and the
significant reduction in noise after hush kits are installed on aircraft. He discussed and
explained DBA and LDN measurements and contours. He reviewed the impact of the
current runway construction on airport operations and noise in Richfield. Mr. Foggia
discussed safety and operational issues of concern to air traffic controllers.
John Sieberz, 6434 Washburn Avenue, compared the aircraft noise monitoring
statistics from 63rd Street and Thomas Avenue to the statistics for the permanent
monitoring sites in June, indicating a very high level for northwest Richfield. He
suggested the City drop the Runway 4-22 lawsuit to save money and allow the spread of
noise more evenly. He stated residents in northwest Richfield would also like to see an
increased ascent rate. He stated residents in his area are unhappy about the noise and
concerned about property values.
Council Member Rosenberg stated it had been a difficult decision to support the
lawsuit and that noise is definitely getting worse in northwest Richfield.
Mrs. Howard said everyone should take a share of the noise.
Council Member Priebe discussed the historical use of Runway 4-22, subsequent
changes, and the runway use system (RUS).
Brian Timerson, representing the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA)
responded to questions from Mrs. Howard regarding the DBA measurements.
Study Session Minutes-4-August 5, 1996
Council Member Susag requested that City staff prepare information on the impact
of the north south runways on Richfield now and after the extension of Runway 4-22,
impact on other communities, information on the possible removal of legal opposition to
Runway 4-22 and the noise impact on Richfield of the reconstruction of the north south
runways.
Mark Sorenson, 7419 Sheridan Avenue, representing his mother Margaret
Sorenson, 6232 Bryant Avenue, asked questions regarding the correlation of the impact of
noise on human beings and the human factors in the measurement of sound levels.
John Foggia explained the DNL model and its basis on human factor research.
Mr. Sorenson stated that the City Council made their decision based on the
additional residents who may be impacted by noise. He suggested that maybe the
Council would better represent the whole City by determining a threshold level that the
City can live with and redistribute noise.
Council Member Sandahl discussed how mitigation is based on data and that the
Council tries to do what is best for the City.
Mayor Kirsch reviewed the level of importance the Council has placed on airport
issues and thanked the audience for their input.
Item # IIIMEETING WITH RICHFIELD PLANNING COMMISSION.
S.S. LETTER NO. 35
City Manager Prosser reviewed Study Session Letter No. 35 regarding the City
Council’s scheduled meeting with the Planning Commission to discuss potential changes
to the zoning ordinance regarding cluster home developments and telecommunication
towers and antennas. The following Planning Commission members were present:
Dan Linnihan, Chair David Gepner
Tim Erlander Kristal Stokes
Mitch Hadley
Planning Commission Chair Linnihan reviewed and discussed issues related to
cluster home developments including definition, setbacks, flexibility, lot size, density, and
neighborhood compatibility. He indicated the Planning Commission is working to
establish a framework for cluster home development that has flexibility in providing the
opportunities for this type of housing.
Planning Commission Chair Linnihan reviewed and discussed the status of the
Planning Commission’s review of issues regarding telecommunication towers and
antennas.
Study Session Minutes-5-August 5, 1996
City Manager Prosser reviewed and discussed the following issues which led to the
City Council’s moratorium on telecommunication towers and antennas:
x
location
x
safety
x
impact on residential areas
x
aesthetics/appearance
x
revenue source
Steve Kenny, CB Communications, discussed and asked questions regarding
issues related to telecommunication towers location in the I-494 corridor, height
restrictions, and in kind donations by telecommunication vendors.
Discussion followed about issues related to co-location, amateur radio
towers/satellite dishes, aesthetics, location, height, and industry input.
Planning Commission Chair Linnihan presented the following estimated timetable
for an ordinance amendment:
x
Planning Commission Study Session on August 13, 1996
x
Draft ordinance language revised in August
x
Planning Commission recommendation by the end of August
x
City Council first and second readings in August and September
x
Ordinance language effective in October
Item # IVDISCUSSION OF FOURTH OF JULY COMMITTEE FINANCIAL REPORT.
S.S. LETTER NO. 36
City Manager Prosser reviewed Study Session Letter No. 36 regarding the
presentation from Fourth of July Committee on their current financial status.
Gary Groen, Chair of the Richfield Fourth of July Committee, stated the
Committee’s financial position had changed dramatically since 1992. He indicated the
reduction of the City’s contribution from $15,000 to $4,000 had resulted in an annual
operating deficit in the last four years. He indicated that the 1997 celebration is in doubt
unless financial commitments can be assured in order to make arrangement for the
carnival and entertainment starting in September. He presented the following
suggestions:
x
The annual appropriation from the City be restored to the $15,000 level in the
1997 City budget.
x
The Committee would like to send a request for donations with the utility billing
as soon as possible.
x
The Committee worked the gates and concessions at softball tournaments held
at Taft Park. There are currently no such tournaments scheduled. The City can
work to help bring these tournaments back to Taft Park.
Study Session Minutes-6-August 5, 1996
x
The City has suggested working with a professional fundraiser. The Committee
will consider working with a professional fundraiser in the coming months.
x
The Committee is considering a major fundraising benefit which would include
selling raffle tickets.
Discussion followed regarding fundraising, the deficit amount, and the commitment
of funds by the City possibly being reduced depending on the success of other fundraising
efforts.
It was the consensus of the City Council to support the commitment of $15,000 for
the Fourth of July Celebration.
City Manager Prosser suggested that the $15,000 for the Fourth of July Celebration
could be included in the proposed 1997 budget for consideration by the City Council. He
stated staff would review the policy regarding including a request for donations with the
utility bills. He suggested the Fourth of July Committee report back to the City Council in
January 1997 regarding the status of other fundraising efforts.
Item #VDISCUSSION OF OPPORTUNITY FOR ADDITIONAL SITE AREA AT CITY
HALL WITH POTENTIAL PURCHASE OF 6758 PORTLAND AVENUE.
S. S. LETTER NO. 37
Community Development Director Palmborg reviewed Study Session Letter No. 37
regarding the feasibility and costs associated with the opportunity to purchase the
property at 6758 Portland Avenue.
Council Member Priebe spoke in opposition to the purchase stating that the City
has fewer residents and is getting smaller so expansion is not a good idea. He stated that
it is his opinion that the motor vehicle licensing customers are the reason for the parking
problem at City Hall. He requested a financial analysis of the motor vehicle licensing
operation.
Administrative Services Director Devich stated he would provide this information.
Council Member Susag stated that he would support the purchase because the
property could be sold in the future if it is found not to be needed.
Council Member Sandahl stated he could support the purchase of this property.
Council Member Rosenberg stated opposition to purchase of this property.
Mayor Kirsch requested that this item be scheduled for consideration at a regular
City Council meeting.
Study Session Minutes-7-August 5, 1996
Item #VIDISCUSSION OF CABLE TELEVISION REFRANCHISING ORDINANCE.
S.S. LETTER NO. 38
City Manager Prosser reviewed Study Session Letter No. 38 regarding the
proposed cable television refranchising ordinance with Paragon Cable.
Kim Roden, Public Affairs Manager for Paragon Cable, explained and answered
questions about Paragon’s position regarding the negotiated proposed “level playing field”
language contained in the franchise renewal documents.
Administrative Services Director Devich answered questions regarding PEG
access, market conditions, technology, and competition.
It was the consensus of the City Council that consideration of the cable
refranchising agreement proceed including the proposed “level playing field” language.
Item #VIIDISCUSSION OF 76TH STREET RECONSTRUCTION
City Engineer Eastling reviewed the status of the proposed 76th Street
Reconstruction Project including the following issues:
1)Street - west of Sheridan
x
Study Session
x
Follow-up to July 30 Open House
2)Neighborhood Concerns - Summary
x
Loss of sidewalk on south side
x
Widen roadway 4 feet to the south
x
Stop sign/signal
x
Trucks allowed on street
x
Cure worse than problem?
3)Response/Alternatives
x
Sidewalks on both sides
x
Street 2 feet wider on both sides
x
Resurface existing street
remove and replace 2 inches of blacktop
same width - vehicles in gutter
x
Trucks
consistent with arterial designation
local traffic according to survey
3% of vehicles are trucks
shift to frontage road - 78th Street residents
MSA (gas tax) ineligibility
Study Session Minutes-8-August 5, 1996
x
Revisit Alternative 3
4)Process
x
Letter to residents listing concerns raised at the Open House
August 12, 1996
x
Meet with residents of 76th Street
August 19 to September 14, 1996
x
Open House with revised plan
September/October, 1996
x
Council consideration
November
5)Informed Consent
x
There is a serious problem.
x
It would be irresponsible for us not to address the problem.
x
We are approaching the problem in a
reasonable,
sensible,
responsible way.
x
I am listening... I do care... about effects.
Ken and Shari Kawiecki, 7600 Thomas Avenue, expressed concerns regarding the
proposed improvements and the process for property owner involvement. They
expressed greatest concern about truck traffic on this section of 76th Street and requested
trucks be prohibited.
Discussion followed regarding issues related to Municipal State Aid (MSA)
standards, truck traffic, speed, stop signs, stop lights, safety, noise, sidewalk width, snow
storage, accident statistics, traffic volumes, utility relocation, and process.
City Engineer Eastling indicated City staff will proceed with the process and gather
further information on truck traffic, accidents, cost of undergrounding utilities, and speed.
Council Member Rosenberg requested that notification to property owners be
mailed further in advance of scheduled meetings and open house events regarding the
project.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent at 10:45 p.m.
Date Approved:
Martin J. KirschMayor
Study Session Minutes-9-August 5, 1996
Thomas P. FerberJames D. Prosser
City ClerkCity Manager