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080597 Planning AGENDA PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING OF AUGUST 5, 1997 CITY OF NEW HOPE, MINNESOTA 7:00 p.m. 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. ROLL CALL 3. CONSENTITEMS 4. PUBLIC HEARINGS 4.1' Case 97-16 Request for Comprehensive Sign Plan, 5621 International Diversified Industries, Inc., Petitioner Parkway, Liberty 5.1 5.2 COMMITTEE REPORTS Report of Design & Review Committee - Next Meeting: August 14 at 8 a.m. Report of Codes & Standards Committee - Next Meeting: September 24 at 7 a.m. OLD BUSINESS Miscellaneous Issues 7.1 7.2 NEW BUSINESS Review/Approval of Planning Commission Minutes of July 1, 1997. Review of City Council Minutes of June 23, 1997. 8. ANNOUNCEMENTS 9. ADJOURNMENT *Petitioners are required to be in attendance Planning Case: Request: Location: PID No.: Zoning: Petitioner: Report Date: Meeting Date: CITY OF NEW HOPE PLANNING CASE REPORT 97-16 Request for Comprehensive Sign Plan 5621 International Parkway 06-118-21-32-0003 I-1, Limited Industrial, Zoning District Liberty Diversified Industries, Inc. August 1, 1997 August 5, 1997 BACKGROUND 1. The petitioner is requesting Comprehensive Sign Plan approval to allow the installation of ground and wall signs identifying the occupants of the building, pursuant to Section 3.467 of the New Hope Sign Code. 2. Liberty Diversified Industries operates its business out of its headquarters building located at 5600 Highway 169. They are also the owners of the building at 5621 International Parkway, north of and adjacent to this site. 3. This Comprehensive Sign Plan application is for the building at 5621 International Parkway. There are three different tenants in this building: · LDI Fibres · Safco Warehouse · Diversi-Plast Manufacturing 4. The purpose of this application is to place signs on the property identifying the current tenants/ companies that are occupying the building. These signs will replace the present sign, which inaccurately lists the identity of the companies at this address. The applicant states that accurate signs will be helpful to their customers, suppliers and the City. 5. Due to the fact that a Comprehensive Sign Plan has not previously been approved for this building, no sign permits can be issued for wall and ground signs for this multi-tenant building until a Comprehensive Sign Plan has been approved. 6. The 5621 International Parkway building is located between International Parkway and the Highway 169 Frontage Road near the intersection with Bass Lake Road. 7. The property is located in an I-1, Limited Industrial, Zoning District and is surrounded by I-1 properties. 8. The property was developed in 1971 with an 81,000 square foot warehouse. Capp Homes was the original tenant, followed by Owens Corning and Harry Blumenthal & Sons. The building has had from one to five tenants in the past. 9. Comprehensive Sign Plan approval does not require a public hearing, therefore, no notices have been published or mailed. ANALYSIS 1. Section 3.467 of the New Hope Sign Code, Signs Accessory to Multiple Occupancy Business and Industrial Uses Including Shopping Centers, states that "when a single principal building is devoted to two or more businesses, or industrial uses, a comprehensive sign plan for the entire building or shopping center shall be submitted and shall include the information required by paragraph (1) to permit a determination as to whether or not the plan is consistent with paragraphs (2) through (4) of this subsection. No permit shall be issued for an individual use except upon a determination that it is consistent with a previously or concurrently approved comprehensive sign plan. The effect of said comprehensive sign plan is to allow and require the owner of multiple occupancy structures to determine the specific individual sign requirements for the tenants of his building. As .sign locations and size, etc. may be of some significant importance in lease arrangements between owner and tenant, it is the City's intention to establish general requirements for the overall building only, thus providing a building owner with both the flexibility and responsibility to deal with his individual tenants on their specific sign needs." (1) Comprehensive Si,qn Plan Information. The applicant shall prepare a written and graphic comprehensive signage plan for submission to the City. Said plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following information: '~ · Sign location (both wall signs and freestanding signs) · Sign area ~ · Sign height · Scaled building elevations · Scaled floor plan that outlines tenant bays · Identification of anchor tenants · Description of window signage use · Identification of sign design · Sign Construction Drawings (sections) · The Council, Planning Commission, and City staff may request additional information from the applicant concerning the application or may retain expert opinions at the expense of the City, or may require as a condition of proceeding with its consideration that the applicant furnish expert opinion and data at the expense of the applicant. (2) Compliance. All signs shall comply with the provisions of Subsections 3.465(1)(c) and (4) and 3.442 except as otherwise provided. Subsection 3.465(1)(c), Metal Electrically Illuminated Signs, states that "Signs constructed of metal and illuminated by any means requiring internal wiring or electrically wired accessory fixtures attached to a metal sign shall maintain a free clearance to a grade of nine feet. Accessory lighting fixtures attached, to a non-metal frame sign shall maintain a clearance of nine feet to ground. In the event a metal sign structure or accessory fixture herein described is grounded by the use of a grounding conductor run with the circuit conductors and said structure or fixture is also grounded by being bonded on a grounding electrode at the sign site, no clearance to grade shall be mandatory." Subsection 3.465(4) refers to roof signs, which is not applicable in this case. (3) Wall Signs. Maximum Area. The total allowable sign area for a multiple occupancy structure shall not exceed 15 percent of the combined wall surfaces on walls which abut streets in Limited or General Business Districts or 10 percent in Limited or General Industrial Districts. No individual tenant identification sign may exceed 100 square feet in area. Building Identification. No multiple occupancy structure may display more than two overall building identification signs. Tenant Identification Signs. Individual tenants located within multiple occupancy structures shall be permitted to display individual identification signs, if they have separate exterior entrances to their use or they are tenants in a shopping center, in which case, not more than one sign may be displayed. A tenant occupying a corner location fronting two streets may display identification signs to bo. th street frontages. Delivery Signs. A delivery sign or signs not exceeding nine square feet in area may be located on the side or rear wall of the structure. (4) Ground Signs. (b) Other Multiple Occupancies. Multiple occupancy structures other than shopping centers, or shopping centers having four or less separate and distinct occupancies, may erect ground signs in accordance with the provisions of Section 3.465(3) and may identify each separate and distinct occupancy on said ground sign. The portions of Section 3.465(3) that are pertinent to this request include the following: (c) Maximum Si,qn Area and He,qht. All ground signs shall conform with the maximum sign area, and maximum sign height provisions in relation to the street classification, as contained in the following table: Maximum Area Maximum Structure Street Classification (Square Feet) Height (Feet) Collector 40 15 Minor Arterial 75 20 Principal Arterial 200 30 (g) Location to Property Lines. No ground sign shall be located closer than ten feet to any property line. Ground Si.qn 2. The petitioner is proposing to install one (1) 4' x 7' (28 square feet) ground sign with three (3) 16-inch wide sections for the identification of three tenants on the front of the sign. Although there is room to identify three tenants, only two tenants are listed on the sign, as follows: Tenant #1: LDI Fibres, Inc. An LDI Company 5609 International Parkway The top line of the sign would be red letters and the bottom two lines would be black lettering. Tenant #2: Diversi-Plast Manufacturing An LDI Company 5633 International Parkway The top line of the sign would be blue letters and the bottom two lines would be black lettering. The rear portion of the sign (also 28 square feet) would contain the following message: "Please BUCKLE UP For Safety" The message would be in black lettering. The ground sign would be located just south of the north drive exits onto International Parkway near the north property line. The sign would be located 20 feet from the property line and would be parallel to International Parkway, with the tenant identification facing International Parkway and the safety message facing the parking lot. 5. The ground sign would be a total of six feet in height. Signs would be constructed of PVC waterproof plastic with vinyl lettering and mounted on aluminum posts painted white. The sign would not be illuminated. 6. The ground sign complies with the Sign Code area height and setback requirements. Wall Signs 7. The petitioner is proposing to install three (3) business identification wall signs on the north side of the building (one for each tenant), as follows: Tenant #1: 2' x 4' (8 square feet) Sign would read: LDI Fibres Lettering on sign would be red Sign would be mounted 15' below roof line above east entry door Tenant #2: 2' x 4' (8 square feet) Sign would read: Safco Warehouse Lettering on sign would be blue Sign would be mounted 15' below roof line above center entry door Tenant #3: 2' x 4'(8 square feet) Sign would read: Diversi-Plast Manufacturing Lettering on sign would be blue Sign would be mounted 15' below roof line above west entry door The wall signs would also be constructed of PVC waterproof plastic with vinyl letters and the signs would not be illuminated. The wall signs comply with the Sign Code area requirements. RECOMMENDATION o Staff recommend approt~al of the Comprehensive Sign Plan request, subject to the following condition: 1. Appropriate permits be obtained from City prior to installation. Attachments: Address/Topo/Zoning Maps Site Plan/Survey Building Elevation (north) Ground Sign (front side) Ground Sign (back side) Wall Signs PARK VICTORY- ~-~oo ~S/ARCH CENTER  ~ ~o ~o PUBLIC ~xOx WORKS GARAGE SCIENCE CENTER CENTER J ®× × 895.6, × ~896.9 × × 892.6 ~ 398.4 × 898- 2 × 898.8 AGENDA PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING OF AUGUST 5, 1997 CITY OF NEW HOPE, MINNESOTA 7:00 p.m. 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. ROLL CALL 3. CONSENT ITEMS 4. PUBLIC HEARINGS 4.1' Case 97-16 Request for Comprehensive Sign Plan, 5621 Diversified Industries, Inc., Petitioner International Parkway, Liberty 5.1 5.2 COMMITTEE REPORTS Report of Design & Review Committee - Next Meeting: August 14 at 8 a.m. Report of Codes & Standards Committee - Next Meeting: September 24 at 7 a.m. OLD BUSINESS Miscellaneous Issues 7.2 NEW BUSINESS Review/Approval of Planning Commission Minutes of July 1, 1997. Review of City Council Minutes of June 23, 1997. 8. ANNOUNCEMENTS 9, ADJOURNMENT *Petitioners are required to be in attendance Planning Case: Request: Location: PID No.: Zoning: Petitioner: Report Date: Meeting Date: CITY OF NEW HOPE PLANNING CASE REPORT 97-16 Request for Comprehensive Sign Plan 5621 International Parkway 06-118-21-32-0003 I-1, Limited Industrial, Zoning District Liberty Diversified Industries, Inc. August 1, 1997 August 5, 1997 BACKGROUND 1. The petitioner is requesting Comprehensive Sign Plan approval to allow the installation of ground and wall signs identifying the occupants of the building, pursuant to Section 3.467 of the New Hope Sign Code. 2. Liberty Diversified Industries operates its business out of its headquarters building located at 5600 Highway 169. They are also the owners of the building at 5621 International Parkway, north of and adjacent to this site. 3. This Comprehensive Sign Plan application is for the building at 5621 International Parkway. There are three different tenants in this building: LDI Fibres Safco Warehouse Diversi-Plast Manufacturing 4. The purpose of this application is to place signs on the property identifying the current tenants/ companies that are occupying the building. These signs will replace the present sign, which inaccurately lists the identity of the companies at this address. The applicant states that accurate signs will be helpful to their customers, suppliers and the City. 5. Due to the fact that a Comprehensive Sign Plan has not previously been approved for this building, no sign permits can be issued for wall and ground signs for this multi-tenant building until a Comprehensive Sign Plan has been approved. 6. The 5621 International Parkway building is located between International Parkway and the Highway 169 Frontage Road near the intersection with Bass Lake Road. 7. The property is located in an I-1, Limited Industrial, Zoning District and is surrounded by I-1 properties. 8. The property was developed in 1971 with an 81,000 square foot warehouse. Capp Homes was the original tenant, followed by Owens Corning and Harry Blumenthal & Sons. The building has had from one to five tenants in the past. 9. Comprehensive Sign Plan approval does not require a public hearing, therefore, no notices have been published or mailed. ANALYSIS 1. Section 3.467 of the New Hope Sign Code, Signs Accessory to Multiple Occupancy Business and Industrial Uses Including Shopping Centers, states that "when a single principal building is devoted to two or more businesses, or industrial uses, a comprehensive sign plan for the entire building or shopping center shall be submitted and shall include the information required by paragraph (1) to permit a determination as to whether or not the plan is consistent with paragraphs (2) through (4) of this subsection. No permit shall be issued for an individual use except upon a determination that it is consistent with a previously or concurrently approved comprehensive sign plan. The effect of said comprehensive sign plan is to allow and require the owner of multiple occupancy structures to determine the specific individual sign requirements for the tenants of his building. As .sign locations and size, etc. may be of some significant importance in lease arrangements between owner and tenant, it is the City's intention to establish general requirements for the overall building only, thus providing a building owner with both the flexibility and responsibility to deal with his individual tenants on their specific sign needs." (1) Comprehensive Sign Plan Information. The applicant shall prepare a written and graphic comprehensive signage plan for submission to the City. Said plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following information: '~ · Sign location (both wall signs and freestanding signs) · Sign area · Sign height · Scaled building elevations · Scaled floor plan that outlines tenant bays · Identification of anchor tenants · Description of window signage use · Identification of sign design · Sign Construction Drawings (sections) · The Council, Planning Commission, and City staff may request additional information from the applicant concerning the application or may retain expert opinions at the expense of the City, or may require as a condition of proceeding with its consideration that the applicant furnish expert opinion and data at the expense of the applicant. (2) Compliance. All signs shall comply with the provisions of Subsections 3.465(1)(c) and (4) and 3.442 except as otherwise provided. Subsection 3.465(1)(c), Metal Electrically Illuminated Signs, states that "Signs constructed of metal and illuminated by any means requiring internal wiring or electrically wired accessory fixtures attached to a metal sign shall maintain a free clearance to a grade of nine feet. Accessory lighting fixtures attached.to a non-metal frame sign shall maintain a clearance of nine feet to ground. In the event a metal sign structure or accessory fixture herein described is grounded by the use of a grounding conductor run with the circuit conductors and said structure or fixture is also grounded by being bonded on a grounding electrode at the sign site, no clearance to grade shall be mandatory." Subsection 3.465(4) refers to roof signs, which is not applicable in this case. (3) Wall Signs. Maximum Area. The total allowable sign area for a multiple occupancy structure shall not exceed 15 percent of the combined wall surfaces on walls which abut streets in Limited or General Business Districts or 10 percent in Limited or General InduStrial Districts. No individual tenant identification sign may exceed 100 square feet in area. Building Identification. No multiple occupancy structure may display more than two overall building identification signs. Tenant Identification Signs. Individual tenants located within multiple occupancy structures shall be permitted to display individual identification signs, if they have separate exterior entrances to their use or they are tenants in a shopping center, in which case, not more than one sign may be displayed. A tenant occupying a corner location fronting two streets may display identification signs to bqth street frontages. Delivery Signs. A delivery sign or signs not exceeding nine square feet in area may be located on the side or rear wall of the structure. (4) Ground Signs. (b) Other Multiple Occupancies. Multiple occupancy structures other than shopping centers, or shopping centers having four or less separate and distinct occupancies, may erect ground signs in accordance with the provisions of Section 3.465(3) and may identify each separate and distinct occupancy on said ground sign. The portions of Section 3.465(3) that are pertinent to this request include the following: (c) Maximum Si.qn Area and Height. All ground signs shall conform with the maximum sign area, and maximum sign height provisions in relation to the street classification, as contained in the following table: Maximum Area Maximum Structure Street Classification (Square Feet) Height (Feet) Collector 40 15 Minor Arterial 75 20 Principal Arterial 200 30 (g) Location to Property Lines. No ground sign shall be located closer than ten feet to any property line. Ground Si_cln 2. The petitioner is proposing to install one (1) 4' x 7' (28 square feet) ground sign with three (3) 16-inch wide sections for the identification of three tenants on the front of the sign. Although there is room to identify three tenants, only two tenants are listed on the sign, as follows: Tenant #1: LDI Fibres, Inc. An LDI Company 5609 International Parkway The top line of the sign would be red letters and the bottom two lines would be black lettering. Tenant #2: Diversi-Plast Manufacturing An LDI Company 5633 International Parkway The top line of the sign would be blue letters and the bottom two lines would be black lettering. The rear portion of the sign (also 28 square feet) would contain the following message: "Please BUCKLE UP For Safety" The message would be in black lettering. The ground sign would be located just south of the north drive exits onto International Parkway near the north property line. The sign would be located 20 feet from the property line and would be parallel to International Parkway, with the tenant identification facing International Parkway and the safety message facing the parking lot. 5. The ground sign would be a total of six feet in height. Signs would be constructed of PVC waterproof plastic with vinyl lettering and mounted on aluminum posts painted white. The sign would not be illuminated. 6. The ground sign complies with the Sign Code area height and setback requirements. Wall Signs 7. The petitioner is proposing to install three (3) business identification wall signs on the north side of the building (one for each tenant), as follows: Tenant #1: 2' x 4' (8 square feet) Sign would read: LDI Fibres Lettering on sign would be red Sign would be mounted 15' below roof line above east entry door Tenant #2: 2' x 4' (8 square feet) Sign would read: Safco Warehouse Lettering on sign would be blue Sign would be mounted 15' below roof line above center entry door Tenant #3: 2' x 4'(8 square feet) Sign would read: Diversi-Plast Manufacturing Lettering on sign would be blue Sign would be mounted 15' below roof line above west entry door The wall signs would also be constructed of PVC waterproof plastic with vinyl letters and the signs would not be illuminated. The wall signs comply with the Sign Code area requirements. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommend appro~'al of the Comprehensive Sign Plan request, subject to the following condition: 1. Appropriate permits be obtained from City prior to installation. Attachments: AddressfTopo/Zoning Maps Site Plan/Survey Building Elevation (north) Ground Sign (front side) Ground Sign (back side) Wall Signs PARK V I S"I' ORY I PARK ~-~oo RESEARCH CENTER ROAD ~ ~5'~,o -- PUBLIC oNXO~, WORKS GARAGE I5'- SCIENCE CENTER DRIVE CENTER RD 6~o [ t.___.~~-~-~_~ ~' 2,_ 893.4 × 900 .5 892.9 X 895.6 894.7 × · + X 892.6 .9 · · ,898.4 × 898.2 × 898.8 AGENDA PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING OF AUGUST 5, 1997 CITY OF NEW HOPE, MINNESOTA 7:00 p.m. 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. ROLL CALL 3. CONSENTITEMS 4. PUBLIC HEARINGS 4.1' Case 97-16 Request for Comprehensive Sign Plan, 5621 International Diversified Industries, Inc., Petitioner Parkway, Liberty 5.1 5.2 COMMITTEE REPORTS Report of Design & Review Committee - Next Meeting: August 14 at 8 a.m. Report of Codes & Standards Committee - Next Meeting: September 24 at 7 a.m. o OLD BUSINESS Miscellaneous Issues 7.1 7.2 NEW BUSINESS Review/Approval of Planning Commission Minutes of July 1, 1997. Review of City Council Minutes of June 23, 1997. 8. ANNOUNCEMENTS 9. ADJOURNMENT *Petitioners are required to be in attendance Planning Commission Guidelines for Public Input The Planning Commission is an advisory body, created to advise the City Council on land use. The Planning Commission will recommend Council approval or denial of a land use proposal based upon the Planning Commission's determination of whether the proposed use is permitted under the Zoning Code and the Comprehensive Plan, and whether the proposed use will, or will not, adversely affect the surrounding neighborhood. The Planning Commission holds informal public hearings on land use proposals to enable you to learn, first-hand, what such proposals are, and to permit you to ask questions and offer comments. Your questions and comments become part of the record and will be used by the Council, along with the Planning Commission's recommendation, in reaching its decision. To aid in your understanding and to facilitate your comments and questions, the Planning Commission will utilize the following procedure: '~ 1. The Planning Commission Chair will introduce the proposal. 2. City staff will outline the proposal and staff's recommendations and answer any questions from the Planning Commission. 3. The petitioner is invited to describe the proposal, make comments on the staff report, and answer questions from the Planning Commission. 4. The Chair will open the public hearing, asking first for those who wish to speak to so indicate by raising their hands. The Chair may set a time limit for individual questions/comments if a large number of persons have indicated a desire to speak. Spokespersons for groups will have a longer period of time for questions/comments. 5. When recognized by the Chair, the person wishing to speak is asked to come forward and to give their full name and address clearly. Remember, your questions/comments are for the record. 6. Direct your questions/comments to the Chair. The Chair will determine who will answer your questions. 7: No one will be given the opportunity to speak a second time until everyone has had the opportunity to speak initially. Please limit your second presentation to new information, not rebuttal. 8. At the close of the public hearing, the Planning Commission will discuss the proposal and take appropriate action. A. If the Planning'Commission recommends that the City Council approve or deny a request, the planning case will be placed on the City Council agenda for the next regular meeting. Usually this meeting is within one to two weeks of the Planning Commission meeting. B. If the Planning Commission tables the request, the petitioner will be asked to return for the next Commission meeting. AUGUST PIAI~INC CASES PC97-16 Liberty Diversified 5621 International Parkway ZONING DISTRICT MAP R-1 Single Flmit,v Refadential R-2 Single Incl Two F-a~,iy Re~clant]el R-3 M~ium O~ Reli~nt~aJ R~ H~ D~ Rel~den~M R-5 ~ / Di~l~' Re~dent~ai R~ ~ Office ~1 Um~ N~ Busine~ ~2 Ret~l ~ne~ ~3 ~o Onefl~ ~sineM ~ C~mun~ ~neu I-2 ~ In~ 1 INCH = 2100 FEET 0 2100 Planning Case: Request: Location: PID No.: Zoning: Petitioner: Report Date: Meeting Date: CITY OF NEW HOPE PLANNING CASE REPORT 97-16 Request for Comprehensive Sign Plan 5621 International Parkway 06-118-21-32-0003 I-1, Limited Industrial, Zoning District Liberty Diversified Industries, Inc. August 1, 1997 August5,1997 BACKGROUND The petitioner is requesting Comprehensive Sign Plan approval to allow the installation of ground and wall signs identifying the occupants of the building, pursuant to Section 3.467 of the New Hope Sign Code. 2. Liberty Diversified Industries operates its business out of its headquarters building located at 5600 Highway 169. They are also the owners of the building at 5621 International Parkway, north of and adjacent to this site. 3. This Comprehensive Sign Plan application is for the building at 5621 International Parkway. There are three different tenants in this building: · LDI Fibres · Safco Warehouse · Diversi-Plast Manufacturing 4. The purpose of this application is to place signs on the property identifying the current tenants/ companies that are occupying the building. These signs will replace the present sign, which inaccurately lists the identity of the companies at this address. The applicant states that accurate signs will be helpful to their customers, suppliers and the City. 5. Due to the fact that a Comprehensive Sign Plan has not previously been approved for this building, no sign permits can be issued for wall and ground signs for this multi-tenant building until a Comprehensive Sign Plan has been approved. 6. The 5621 International Parkway building is located between International Parkway and the Highway 169 Frontage Road near the intersection with Bass Lake Road. 7. The property is located in an I-1, Limited Industrial, Zoning District and is surrounded by I-1 properties. 8: The property was developed in 1971 with an 81,000 square foot warehouse. Capp Homes was the original tenant, followed by Owens Corning and Harry Blumenthal & Sons. The building has had from one to five tenants in the past. 9. Comprehensive Sign Plan approval does not require a public hearing, therefore, no notices have been published or mailed. ANALYSIS Section 3.467 of the New Hope Sign Code, Signs Accessory to Multiple Occupancy Business and Industrial Uses Including Shopping Centers, states that "when a single principal building is devoted to two or more businesses, or industrial uses, a comprehensive sign plan for the entire building or shopping center shall be submitted and shall include the information required by paragraph (1) to permit a determination as to whether or not the plan is consistent with paragraphs (2) through (4) of this subsection. No permit shall be issued for an individual use except upon a determination that it is consistent with a previously or concurrently approved comprehensive sign plan. The effect of said comprehensive sign plan is to allow and require the owner of multiple occupancy structures to determine the specific individual sign requirements for the tenants of his building. As .sign locations and size, etc. may be of some significant importance in lease arrangements between owner and tenant, it is the City's intention to establish general requirements for the overall building only, thus providing a building owner with both the flexibility and responsibility to deal with his individual tenants on their specific sign needs." (1) Comprehensive Sign Plan Information. The applicant shall prepare a written and graphic comprehensive signage plan for submission to the City. Said plan shall include, but not be limited to, the following information: '~ · Sign location (both wall signs and freestanding signs) · Sign area · Sign height · Scaled building elevations · Scaled floor plan that outlines tenant bays · Identification of anchor tenants · Description of window signage use · Identification of sign design · Sign Construction Drawings (sections) · The Council, Planning Commission, and City staff may request additional information from the applicant concerning the application or may retain expert opinions at the expense of the City, or may require as a condition of proceeding with its consideration that the applicant furnish expert opinion and data at the expense of the applicant. (2) Compliance. All signs shall comply with the provisions of Subsections 3.465(1)(c) and (4) and 3.442 except as otherwise provided. Subsection 3.465(1)(c), Metal Electrically Illuminated Signs, states that "Signs constructed of metal and illuminated by any means requiring internal wiring or electrically wired accessory fixtures attached to a metal sign shall maintain a free clearance to a grade of nine feet. Accessory lighting fixtures attached, to a non-metal frame sign shall maintain a clearance of nine feet to ground. In the event a metal sign structure or accessory fixture herein described is grounded by the use of a grounding conductor run with the circuit conductors and said structure or fixture is also grounded by being bonded on a grounding electrode at the sign site, no clearance to grade shall be mandatory." Subsection 3.465(4) refers to roof signs, which is not applicable in this case. (3) Wall Signs. Maximum Area. The total allowable sign area for a multiple occupancy structure shall not exceed 15 percent of the combined wall surfaces on walls which abut streets in Limited or General Business Districts or 10 percent in Limited or General InduStrial Districts. No individual tenant identification sign may exceed 100 square feet in area. Building Identification. No multiple occupancy structure may display more than two overall building identification signs. Tenant Identification Signs. Individual tenants located within multiple occupancy structures shall be permitted to display individual identification signs, if they have separate exterior entrances to their use or they are tenants in a shopping center, in which case, not more than one sign may be displayed. A tenant occupying a corner location fronting two streets may display identification signs to bath street frontages. Delivery Signs. A delivery sign or signs not exceeding nine square feet in area may be located on the side or rear wall of the structure. (4) Ground Signs. (b) Other Multiple Occupancies. Multiple occupancy structures other than shopping centers, or shopping centers having four or less separate and distinct occupancies, may erect ground signs in accordance with the provisions of Section 3.465(3) and may identify each separate and distinct occupancy on said ground sign. The portions of Section 3.465(3) that are pertinent to this request include the following: (c) Maximum Sign Area and Heiqht. All ground signs shall conform with the maximum sign area, and maximum sign height provisions in relation to the street classification, as contained in the following table: Maximum Area Maximum Structure Street Classification (Square Feet) Height (Feet) Collector 40 15 Minor Arterial 75 20 Principal Arterial 200 30 (g) Location to Property Lines. No ground sign shall be located closer than ten feet to any property line. Ground Sign 2. The petitioner is proposing to install one (1) 4'x 7' (28 square feet) ground sign with three (3) 16-inch wide sections for the identification of three tenants on the front of the sign. Although there is room to identify three tenants, only two tenants are listed on the sign, as follows: Tenant #1: LDI Fibres, Inc. An LDI Company 5609 International Parkway The top line of the sign would be red letters and the bottom two lines would be black lettering. Tenant #2: Diversi-Plast Manufacturing An LDI Company 5633 International Parkway The top line of the sign would be blue letters and the bottom two lines would be black lettering. The rear portion of the sign (also 28 square feet) would contain the following message: "Please BUCKLE UP For Safety" The message would be in black lettering. The ground sign would be located just south of the north drive exits onto International Parkway near the north property line. The sign would be located 20 feet from the property line and would be parallel to International Parkway, with the tenant identification facing International Parkway and the safety message facing the parking lot. The ground sign would be a total of six feet in height. Signs would be constructed of PVC waterproof plastic with vinyl lettering and mounted on aluminum posts painted white. The sign would not be illuminated. 6. The ground sign complies with the Sign Code area height and setback requirements. Wall Signs 7. The petitioner is proposing to install three (3) business identification wall signs on the north side of the building (one for each tenant), as follows: Tenant #1: 2' x 4' (8 square feet) Sign would read: LDI Fibres Lettering on sign would be red Sign would be mounted 15' below roof line above east entry door Tenant #2: 2' x 4' (8 square feet) Sign would read: Safco Warehouse Lettering on sign would be blue Sign would be mounted 15' below roof line above center entry door Tenant #3: 2' x 4'(8 square feet) Sign would read: Diversi-Plast Manufacturing Lettering on sign would be blue Sign would be mounted 15' below roof line above west entry door The wall signs would also be constructed of PVC waterproof plastic with vinyl letters and the signs would not be illuminated. The wall signs comply with the Sign Code area requirements. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommend appro~'al of the Comprehensive Sign Plan request, subject to the following condition: 1. Appropriate permits be obtained from City prior to installation. Attachments: Address/Topo/Zoning Maps Site Plan/Survey Building Elevation (north) Ground Sign (front side) Ground Sign (back side) Wall Signs c / ,/ VICTORY \ PARK ~ ~SEARCH cENTER ROAD ~ ~ CH PUBLIC ~0~ WORKS GARAGE CENTER RD SCIENCE CENTER DRIVE 89:5.4 X gOO .5 ®× 892.9 X 895.6 894.7 × + × 892.6 .9X ,898.4 × 898.2 × 898.8 COOFI~ I'II~H 505.23 ~,~s ' t 61TbM,'NC b$ I I- ~ - · [.- L ~0.02 I ~z -8~ 8~ Z ~"X APRIL GRAPHICS, INC. (612) 425-7446 Approved by LDi Fibres, Inc. An LDI Company 5609 International Parkway Diversi-Plast Manufacturing An LDI Company 5633 International Parkway APRIL GRAPHICS, INC. (612) 425-7446 Approved by~. ~ APRIL GRAPHICS, INC. (612) 425-7446~ Approved by APRIL GRAPHICS, INC. (612) 425-7446 Approved by ...... - Please UC For L UP afety! APRIL GRAPHICS, INC. (612) 425-7446-~ ~c Approve¢l by ~--~-.!-. APRIL GRAPHICS, INC. (612) 425-7446 /~,~-~--.--~_ APRIL GRAPHICS, INC. (612) 425-7446 ~ ^pp~ov.d by ~~ ~.~ BUILDING SIGNS Safco Warehouse Diversi. Plast Manufacturing APRIL GRAPHICS, INC. (612) 425-7446 Approved by (;' ~,~,¢~,,L~, .. Memorandum To: From: Date: Subject: Planning Commission Members Kirk McDonald, Management Assistant/Community Development Coordinator August 1, 1997 Miscellaneous Issues NOTE: The purpose of this miscellaneous issues memo is to provide commissioners with additional detail on Council/EDA actions. It is not required reading and is optional information provided for your review, at your discretion. July 28 Council Meeting - At the July 28 Council meeting, the Council took action on the following planning/development/housing issues: A. Project #594, Resolution Awarding Contract to Arrigoni Brothers Company for Playground Equipment for Corner Park: Approved, see attached Council request. B. Resolution Authorizing Application for Metropolitan Council Planninq Assistance Grant for Life Cycle Housing Study: Approved, see attached Council request. C. Project #602, Approval of Plans and Specifications and Authorization to Call for Bids for Renovation of Park Shelter Buildinq Roof at New Hope Athletic Fields: Approved, see attached Council request. D. Project #600, Public Hearing - An Ordinance Establishing a Housing Improvement Area for the Sandpiper Cove Townhome Development, Pursuant to Minn. Stat. §428A: The public hearing was continued until August, per the request of the petitioner, as the engineering analysis describing the specific improvements to be made had not been completed by the townhome association. Please see attached Council request for more information E. Planning Case 97-09, Request for a Variance to Allow a Second Existing Garage to Remain in Place, 5933 Boone Avenue: Approved, please refer to the City Attorney's letter and a draft excerpt of the Council minutes, The Council is requesting that the Planning Commission study the sections of the Zoning Code dealing with accessory buildings and garages and make recommendations to update these ordinances. F. Planning Case 97-10, Request for a Conditional Use Permit to Allow Construction of a Steel Monop.ole with Antenna .Array for Telecommunications Wireless Service, 2900 Nevada Avenue: Approved, subject to the conditions recommended by the Planning Commission. G. Planning Case 97-12, Request for a Conditional Use Permit to Allow a Home Maintenance Business to Operate Out of the Home, 3941 Winnetka Avenue: Approved after much discussion, subject to the conditions recommended by the Planning Commission and amended slightly by the City Council. H. Planninq Case 97-13, Resolution Confirming and Ratifyin.q Plannin~ Commission Resolution 97-1 Regarding Comments on City of Golden Valley Comprehensive Plan Amendment: Approved. I. Project #583, Resolution Awarding Contract for the Construction of 1997 Backyard Drainage Improvement: Approved, see attached Council request. J. Project #589, Resolution Authorizing the Purchase of 9116 31't Avenue: Approved, see attached Council request. K. Project #573, Resolution Awarding Contract for the Building Rehabilitation at 5212 Winnetka Avenue: Approved, see attached Council request. L. Ordinance No. 97-17, An Ordinance Amending the New Hope City Code Regulating the Sale and Purchase of Tobacco Products: Adopted, see attached Council request. M. Ordinance No. 97-221Planning Case 97-15, An Ordinance Amending the New Hope Zoning Code by Establishing Convenience Food Establishments as a Permitted Use in the B-4 Zoning District: Adopted. Codes & Standards Committee - The Committee did not meet in July. The next scheduled meeti~ date will be September 24. Continuing items include: pawn shop/second hand goods dealers, re~ estate sign regulations, and DNR shoreland regulations. Staff is also requesting that the Committee undertake a study of accessory buildings and garages this fall, per the direction from the City Council. I will be coordinating a meeting with the City Attorney, Building Official and Planning Consultant to determine the specific ordinances that need to be reviewed prior to the time that a report is prepared for the Committee. 3. Design & Review Committee - The Committee did not meet in July. It is anticipated that a meeting will be necessary on August 14 to review the following potential applications: A. Conditional use permit for outdoor storage - ARC Store at Midland Shopping Center B. Side yard air conditioner variance C. CUP amendment for outdoor storage at Ben Franklin warehouse on Winnetka D. CUP amendment to expand hours of operation at AA building on Bass Lake Road Staff will contact the Committee regarding the scheduling of the meeting after the application deadline on August 8. 4. Comprehensive Plan Update Committee - The first committee meeting is scheduled for August 12. 5. Quarterly Reports'- Enclosed for your information are the quarterly reports for planning, housing and engineering projects initiated/continued dudng the second quarter. Project Bulletins - Several project bulletins are enclosed that were mailed to residents impacted by engineering projects initiated/continued by the City during the second quarter. Miscellaneous Articles - Enclosed are several articles related to planning/zoning issues you may be interested in reviewing. Attachments: Comer Park Playground Equipment Met Council Planning Assistance Grant Park Shelter Building Roof Renovation Sandpiper Cove Townhome Development 1997 Backyard Drainage 9116 31" Avenue 5212 Winnetka Avenue Tobacco Ordinance Quartedy Reports Project Bulletins Miscellaneous Articles COUNC/'L - I REQUY_. T FOR ACTION Originating Department Approved fOr Agenda Agenda Section Consen~ Parks and Recreation 7~7 Item No. By: Shah French By:/J 5,5 RESOLUTION AWARDING CONTRACT FOR PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT FOR CORNER PARK (IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 594) TO ARRIGONI BROTHERS Bids were open on Wednesday, July 23rd and have been evaluated by the engineers for playground equipment for Comer Park (improvement Project 594). The Engineeds letter regarding bid evaluations is attached. Plans and specifications were approved at the June 9th Council meeting. The 1997 CIP contains $50,000 for this purchase. Contractors Total Base Bid Alternate Bid Total Bid Arrigoni Brothers $40,399.00 $3,300 $43,699.00 Jay Bros $57,726.45 $2,689 $60.415.45 LS Black Contracting $67,145.85 $3,800 $70,945.85 As has been the practice, staff met with Comer Park neighbors in March to plan the new equipment. Those attending that meeting received copies of the plans and have been given the opportunity to give any input they wanted. They like this plan and are looking forward to new equipment at their park. The existing equipment dates back to the 70s. The alternate is for polyethylene timbers instead of wood for this play area. The thought is that the poty would last longer than wood and not cause any splintering problems. Staff recommends award to the Iow bidder, Ardgoni Brothers including the alternate. There is $50,000 in the Park CIP for 1997 for this project. MOTION BY SECOND BY TO: Review: Administration: Finance: RFA-O01 ~ COUNCIL REQUEST FOR ACTION Originating Department Approved for Agenda Agenda SecTion City Manager Consent 7-28-97 Kirk McDonald ~ Item No. By: Management Assistant By:~/ 5.8 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING APPLICATION FOR METROPOLITAN COUNCIL PLANNING ASSISTANCE GRANT FOR LIFE CYCLE HOUSING STUDY Six cities from the North Metro Mayors Association (Brooklyn Center, Columbia Heights. Coon Rao~ds. Crystal, Robbinsdale and New Hope) desire to submit a Local Planning Assistance Grant application ~o the Metropolitan Council for the preparation of a joint-city Life Cycle Housing Study. The study would be completed by the consulting firm of Nancy Reeves and Associates and will be used by the c~t~es to determine their future housing needs for inclusion in the update of the Comprehensive Plan. The C;ty Managers for all six cities have preliminarily approved the application and a resolution from each C;ty Council is needed authorizing the application. The cost of the study is $4,000 per City, with the P!anr'ir~c~ Assistance Grant paying $3,000 of the cost and the cities paying the remaining $1,000. The ~otat ~ram application is for (6 x $3,000) $18.000. This is substantially below the cost for a single study eecause of the economics of preparing several studies together. In June the City Council authorized an application to the Met Council for $20.000 for the update of *,he New Hope Comprehensive Plan and that application has been submitted. This joint-city application ~s separate from the original application, however, the information derived from this Life Cycle Hous~r~g Study will be incorporated into the New Hope ComprehensiVe Plan Update. Staff recommends approval of the resolution. .MOTION BY' SECOND BY TO: Review: Administration: Finance: RFA-O01 ~ Nancy Reeves and Associates I ~25 Summit ,4 venue S~ Paul. Minnesota 55105 (61,') 644-0638 MEMORANDUM Date: July 2 I. tc~07 To Dan Donahue From: Nancy Reeves Subject: City Counml Resolution to go w~th Planning Grant Application Enclosed is a copy of the sample resolution that the Metropolitan Counml requires each mtv to approve when applUng for planrung grant funds. The application for $3.000 apiece for 6 cities tCoon Rapids. Columbia He~ts. Crystal. BrookNa Center. New Hope and Robbinsdale) for life cycle housing studies was subrrutted to the Metropohtan Counol last Fnday, JuJv l$ [ have enclosed a copy of the cover letter and Attachment A of the application for ``'our reformation You ~11 note that the City of Robbinsdale ser,,'ed as the offimal applicant on behalf of the maes Please have ``'our City Council approve the resolution at their next meetin~ and then sign tt and have ~t notarized, and send ~t to me at the above address I w'~ll return ~t. along with the others, to the Metropolitan Council. Thank you for ,,'our cooperation and for ,,,'our continued mte?e~t tn tl-us project. ~ttachment A Project Description, ~,¥ork P~an and Budget Project Description This application for local planrung assistance ~ant funds ts for a jomt project of 6 cities in the north metro area, BrookNn Center, Columbia Heights, Coon Rapids, Crystal, New Hope and Robbmsdale The project is to study the life cycle housing needs of these cines through the year :010 A life cycle housing study prosades information on the housing types and costs that wdl be needed in a city or ~oup of cities in the future. [t looks at the t?~es of housing that wdt be needed to accommodate people as they ~ow older, as they ~ow up and start out on their own. and as they move into a commumtv to fill the jobs that wdl be created. The study starts with the current populanon and housing supply, and uses population, household, employment and age projecnons to deterrrune housing demand or usage tn 2010 Current housing usage by age and income are used as guides, along w:th anncipated changes tn employment and city goals and policies. Census data, budding perrmt data, and Metropolitan Councat projecnons are used to form the data base, along w~th any more recent local data avadable Real estate trends for the market area are also considered. The final product ~s a report that indicates the housing t.spes that the commuruty wall need to have evadable by 20 l0 to accommodate the population. Advantac, es of a L~fe Cycle Housm~ Study A Life Cvcle Housing Study is a basic housing planning tool that helps cities to make deoslons regarding housing goals and implementanon ~trateg~_ es for their comprehensive plans and Livable Communities goals and action plans. For example, if a city knows that there v, qll be a major increase tn the number of young people ready to form their own households, the city may want to plan for additional affordable housing units, both rental and ownership. A Life Cycle Housing Study helps Wkh zoning decisions. If a city finds that certain housing tyges are needed tn the future, zomng changes can be made to accommodate these needs before the evadable land is comnUtted to other uses. .-~ Life Cvcle Housing Study helps with redevelopment planning. [fa city ts planmng to convert existing buildings to different uses. information on the housing types that wall be needed tn the future ~11 be useful to planners and developers. A Life Cvcle Housing Study may help to discourage overbuilding of homing types that may not be needed by 2010. An example would be the large-tot single-farruly homes that have dominated new housing construcnon in the re. on dunng the lc~00s, but which may have a much smaller market by 2010. It Wql be difficult to convert these housing Umts to other uses. and they may end up as rental uruts, leading to unant~°pated changes tn the commuruues. Work P!an ;nd Buena: The 6 c~t:es noted :bo,.e plan [o hire the consulting firm of Nancy Reeves and ,Msoc~ates [o preoarect L:fe C'.:ie Housmg Studies tn addtt,'on [o r_he mdl~dual studies for each ~tv. an over~e~ of '3',e north metro market area will also be tncluded. The ~ork '~sfll b~n as soon as t~ndmB nottficatton ~s recetved by the c~t~es, approximately the end of August, l'~o? It ts anuc~pated that the tnd~s~dual plans and osecv~ew of the market area can be completed w~thm 4 months of funding nottficauon, to allow the crees plenty o£ ttme to use the ~rLformauon in prepanng ~e~r comprehensive plans. The process will include trutial project planmng meetings unth each mty, preparation of the stuches in drai:t form, otv rexnew of the dra~ matenals, and final verstons of the studies and o,/ersqew The cost of the studies vail be $4.00000 per oty, with the planmng assistance grant pa.smg 53.000 00 of the cost, and the oues pa.sing the remaimng $1.000 00. This figure tncludes all study preparauon costs (data analysts and writing) and delivery of 7 cop~es of the study to each at,,' bx' the consultant. COUNCIL REQUEST FOR ACTION Ortgtnatmg Departrnent Approved for Agenda Agenda Section Consent Parks and Recreation ~,)7/28/97 Item No. By: Shad French By:,// 6. L 5 APPROVAL OF PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS AND AUTHORIZATION TO CALL FOR BIDS FOR RENOVATION OF PARK SHELTER BUILDING ROOF AT NEW HOPE ATHLETIC FIELDS (IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 602) The 1997 CIP calls for renovation of a park shelter roof and contains $24,810 for this project, The Ligt~ted field baseball building was chosen because the roof is in poor shape in the estimation of staff. The engineers have drawn u0 plans and specs. Staff is requesting approval and a call for Uids. Bids would be opened August 20th and taken to Council on August 25, 1997. MOTION BY SECOND BY TO: Review: Adrnin/stration: Finance: RFA-O01 ~ COUNC[~ REQUF T FOR ACTION Or~ginatmg Department Approved for Agenda Agenda Section Public City Manager Hearing ") Item No. 7-28-97 Kirk McDonald By: Management Assistant BY:'Y:'V 7. ~. PUBLIC HEARING: AN ORDINANCE ES/C'ABLISHING A HOUSING IMPROVEMENT AREA FOR THE SANDPIPER COVE TOWNHOME DEVELOPMENT, PURSUANT TO MINN. STAT. §428A (IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 600) This is the public hearing to consider the adoption of an ordinance establishing a Housing Improveme¢,. Area for the Sandpiper Cove Townhome Development (Improvement Project No. 600). Staff is recommending that the hearing be continued until the August 11 Council meeting. Before :,~e ordinance can be completed, an engineering analysis of the complex must be completed to determ~re the specific improvements that need to be made to the properties because a description of :re necessary improvements must be identified in the ordinance. Dan Leaf, President of the Sandciper Townhome Association. has contacted the City and indicated that they need more time to comclete engineering analysis and he has requested a continuance of the public hearing. At the June 9 Councit/EDA meeting, staff discussed the option of the City establishing a Housing Improvement Area to provide financial assistance to upgrade the exterior of these properties. Cove is a townhouse development located at 8101-8953 42"" Avenue that contains 36 owner-occupied townhomes. The complex is 20 years old and there are significant exterior deterioration problems. The association has sought preliminary bids from contractors who estimated that $350.000 is neeCed make siding, deck, window, and other improvements. They have approached the City for assistance because, as a townhouse association consisting of individual owners, they have been rejected b,/ several banks for loans to make the needed improvements. At that meeting, the City Attorney outlined new legislation and procedures to initiate a program that would ailow for City-funded loans to property owners unable to obtain financing through private means. Instead of secunng the loans as a typical mortgage transaction, the City could assess the benefiting properties simdar to a special assessment project. The Council was generally receptive to this ~dea ar, ci directed staff to :~roceed with the preparation of an ordinance. MOTION BY SECOND BY TO: Review: Adrnin/strat~on: Finance: I RFA-O01 ~ Request for Action Page 2 7-2a-~7 The first steps to estao~sr~ a housing improvement area are as follows: Imtiatly, the Council would r*Leed to adof2t an enal21ing ordinance sl2ecificatly defining the ~mprovement area or areas and spec~fically indicating the necessary improvements to be made within the area. The City cannot adopt this ordinance on its own initiative. Before such an ordinance can ce considered, there must be a petition by at least 25 percent of the owners w~thin the ~roposed area requesting the enat21ing ordinance. A petitioner with 28 out of 36 signatures (77%) was submitted at the June 9 rneetin[t, Before adoption of the enabling ordinance, the City would need to conduct a public hearing. At the hearing and within the ordinance, the Council would need to make findings that the necessary improvements will not be made if the housing improvement area is not created and makir~g improvements within the area is needed to maintain and preserve the area's housing units. Further. the enabling ordinance will allow the City to impose a fee against the benefiting property owners to pay for the cost of the improvements. Notices have been sent notifying all of the property owners about this hearing. Staff recommends that the hearing be continued until August 1 1. July 23, 1997 Kirk McDonald City of New Hope 4401Xylon Avenue North New Home, MN 55~25 Sandpiper Cove Housing ZmOrovement Area mum Cile; 99.11155 Dear Kirk: Thi~ letter will confirm the recent telephone conversation we with Dan Leaf President aC the Sandpiper Cove Townhome A~socia~ion. They are asking For a continuance on %he public hearing scheduled ¢o¢ %he July 28th COunCil Meeting. ADOar~ntly they meed mere tO conduct the engineering analysis of their units to deter'mi~e specific improvements that need %u be made 5o tne]r properties. The public hearing is reauired by ~inn;' Stat. §428A.13. After' the hearing t~e Council will consider the adopbion of an ordinance ~o ~s%ablish a housirlg improvement area for SandpiDer Cove. Ra$ica]~y, %he ordinance will allow the City to loan the A~o¢iat~on funds For ¢e0airs to the ext~mior area o¢ the umits in %he d~velo~men%. The loans w~ll b~ made in the form of special assessments against the p¢uperties., The engineering analysi~ is rlecessary since state law requires a descripuion of t~e necessary improvements must ba set ordinance. The more specific we can be wi%h this desfri~tior] will a~sist u~ in compliance with the statute and allow us to determine the amount of furlds necessary to make the required improvements. OOviously, this is information th~ Council will need before i~ can pass on the housing improvement area o,-dinance. There?ore, i~ ~as decided to request a Oostmonement o¢ the public hearing until August 11, 1997. We will not need %0 r'eouDlish our hearing no~ice bu~ ~ suggest we do another mailing to the property owners ir~ t~e development abou: the h~aring ¢ostponemen~ until =~ge 2. August 11th. Contact me i? you hav~ amy o~her quemtionm or oommem~$ ~bou~ this matter. Very truly yours, Stever) A. $ondrall zlw PLANNING CASE 97-09 Item 8.1 Mayor Enck introduced for discussion Item 8.1, Planning Case 97-09, Request for a Variance to Allow a Second Existing Garage to Remain in Place, 5933 Boone Avenue North, Elmer Geislinger, Petitioner. Mr. Kirk McDonald, Management Assistant/Community Development Coordinator, displayed a photograph of the property. He stated this matter was considered by the Planning Commission at its June 3 meeting and was placed on the June 9 Council agenda. Prior to that Council meeting, the City was contacted by the petitioner's attorney who requested a postponement on the consideration of their variance request. The postponement was requested because the attorney for the petitioner stated that additional time was needed for review and supplementation of the record. The City Council tabled the request until the July 28 Council meeting, although the City has received nothing further from the applicants or their attorney on this matter. The petitioner is requesting a variance to allow a second existing garage to remain in place on the property, pursuant to Section 4.22 and 4.032(3)(g)(h)of the New Hope Code of Ordinances. Mr. McDonald pointed out that there are conflicting opinions between the petitioner and the City and stated he will present both sides of the issues. The petitioners obtained a building permit to build a detached garage and convert the existing attached garage for storage and other use in 1981. When the construction was completed that year, the owners declined to remove or convert the existing attached garage. A decision was made at that time to defer the conversion until the "point-of-sale" housing inspection. The property is Presently for sale and rather than converting the attached garage, the petitioners are requesting a variance to allow two garages on the property (the existing attached garage and the existing detached garage). Mr. Donahue cited Section 4.032(3)(g) of the City Code which states that "no permit shall be issued for the construction of more than one (1) private accessory garage structure for each dwelling." The Code states that "each lot shall be limited to one (1) accessory building in addition to an accessory garage." The Code further states that "no accessory building or garage for single or two family residential uses shall occupy more than 25 percent of a rear yard, nor exceed 900 square feet." Other Code language and definitions prevent a storage shed from being used for garage purposes. Mr. Donahue explained that the property, which is a standard 86' x 105' (9,030 square feet) residential lot, is located on the west side of Boone Avenue south of 60a Avenue North. The property contains a single family home with an attached 288 square foot single car garage on the south side of the home. A 576 square foot detached garage is located in the southwest corner/rear yard of the property (constructed in 1981). The rear detached garage is accessed by an expanded driveway along the side of the home/attached garage. Total garage space on the property totals 864 square feet. The property is located in a Single Family Residential Zoning District and is surrounded by single family homes. Mr. McDonald stated several instances have arisen in the past where a building permit for a garage is authorized with a condition to remove an existing second driveway or garage as part of the project. A garage building permit application was received in 1981. It proposed a new detached double garage, but there was an existing single attached garage on the property. Since City Code prohibits two garages, the Building Official advised the applicants to: i) apply for a variance; 2) remove the second garage; or 3) submit plans and obtain a permit to show the existing garage converted to another use at the time of the new garage construction. Many attached garages in the past have been converted to porches, New Hope City Council Page 4 July 28, 1997 recreation rooms, living rooms, storage and kitchen expansion. Mr. McDonald stated according to the Building Official the petitioners understood the ordinances and agreed to comply. The plans were signed and marked "Remove existing overhead door - eliminate original garage." On the f'mal inspection of the new garage, he wrote "OK - Submit plans on second garage conversion or variance application." No action was taken by the petitioners. In 1988, the Fire Marshall and Police Department were called to the property regarding a day care operation. The garage issues were again brought to the City's attention and a memorandum was entered into the t-fie. A determination was made to defer the garage conversion order until the property was sold and inspected at "point-of-sale." On April 30, 1997, the General Inspector made the dwelling maintenance inspection and re-issued the previous order, which prompted this variance application. The petitioners have taken good care of their property and buildings in recent years. Mr. McDonald stated the petitioners have submitted several letters outlining their recollection of past events. They state that the building permit stated nothing about removing an overhead door - eliminate original garage or apply for a variance. They indicate that after an inspection for day care in 1988, a memorandum was filed on this matter. They indicate the reason for the second garage was for vehicle storage and miscellaneous storage. They state that the garage is set back far enough in the rear that it does not block views anymore than the neighbor's garage. They state that they did not receive a copy of the file memo and would have applied for a variance at that time if they had received a copy. The petitioners state that a hardship would be created if the variance were not granted because more vehicles would be parked outside, more vandalism to vehicles could occur, and the property would not appear as well kept. They are requesting approval of the variance. Mr. McDonald stated staff agrees that a second garage creates two additional indoor parking spaces and supports the idea that garage expansion is desirable for additional storage. However, staff must also enforce the City Code which prohibits two separate garages per lot. Very few variances of this type have been granted in the past. The City received letters from several property owners that abut the rear of this property that are opposed to the granting of the variance. The Planning Commission considered this request at its June 3 meeting, and on a 6-1 vote, recommended conversion of the original garage to a living/storage use (removal of overhead door) and denial of the variance. Mr. McDonald stated the resolution before the Council approves the variance but if the Council desires to deny the variance, staff recommends that the matter be referred to the City Attorney for preparation of "fmdings of fact". Mr. McDonald stated the City Attorney has been consulted regarding the matter, and it is his opinion that a 16-year delay does cast some doubt on the City's ability to enforce the code at this time. The general rule is that past inaction by a municipality does not produce an estoppel to enforce the code section. Secondly, the City needs to reconsider either its prohibition on a second garage or its definitions for garages and accessory storage buildings. Mayor Enck commented on exterior storage issues as well as the number of years that the garage has been in place. New Hope City Council Page 5 July 28, 1997 RESOLUTION 97-120 Item 8.1 PLANNING CASE 97-10 Item 8.2 Discussion ensued regarding the difference between the definition of a utility building and a garagel Re Council also noted that, in general, people accumulate more recreational vehicles today compared to several years ago, and it's beneficial to have these stored inside buildings whenever possible. Mr. Tim Mounihan, attorney representing Elmer and Kathy Geislinger, was recognized. He pointed out the presence of Mr. & Mrs. Geislinger if the Council would like to direct any questions to them. The City Council unanimously requested the Planning Commission to review the zoning code sections pertaining to storage building definitions and size as well as the number of garages permitted per property. Councilmembers Otten and Norby complimented the petitioners on the well maintained property. Councilmember Cassen introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: "RESOLUTION APPROVING PLANNING CASE 97-09 REQUESTING VARIANCE TO ALLOW A SECOND EXISTING GARAGE TO REMAIN IN PLACE AT 5933 BOONE AVENUE NORTH (PID//06-118- 21-24-0088) SUBMITTED BY ELMER GEISLINGER.' The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was seconded by Councilmember Otten, and upon vote being taken thereon, the following voted in favor thereof: Enck, Cassen, Collier, Norby, Otten; and the following voted against the same: None; Abstained: None; Absent: None; whereupon the resolution was declared duly passed and adopted, signed by the mayor which was attested to by the city clerk. Mayor Enck introduced for discussion Item 8.2, Planning Case 97-10, Request for a Conditional Use Permit to Allow Construction of a Steel Monopole with Antenna Array for Telecommunications Wireless Service, 2900 Nevada Avenue North, CB Commercial, John Hollenbeck, and Northland Mechanical Contractors, Ronald Kocher, Petitioners. Mr. McDonald stated this is an application for a conditional use permit by US West to allow construction of a 100-foot tall steel monopole with antenna array for telecommunications wireless service on the property at 2900 Nevada Avenue North. He stated the property is owned by Northland Mechanical Contractors. There is an existing office/warehouse building on the site, which comains 4.3 acres. The site is surrounded mainly by industrial uses. The newly adopted ordinance establishes regulations for the construction and placement of telecommunication towers and facilities states that "Personal wireless service antennas erected on an antenna tower may be allowed as a conditionally permitted use within Industrial Zoning Districts, provided they comply with certain standards. The specific applicable requirements of Ordinance 97-04 are compared to this request as follows: 1. Written authorization by the properly owner has been provided. 2. Removal - U.S. West has submitted the attached June 10 letter stating that the tower would be removed within 12 months of cessation of operation. Also the City Attorney has stated that the addendum to the lease agreemem regarding the lessee restoring the lessors property to its original condition after the lease is terminated was adequate to fulfill the ordinance requirement for removal. 3. Building Code compliance is a condition of approval. 4. Structural design verification by engineer - A structural analysis has been New Hope City Council Page 6 July 28, 1997 July 23, 1997 Kirk McDonald City of New MoDe 4401Xylon Avenu~ North New Hooe, MN 55428 Geis]inger Garage Variance Our ~i]e: gg,39709 Dear Kirk- I did speak with the a~tormey for the Geislinger's in thi~ matter. When they asked for a oostoonem~nt on the consideration of %hei~ variance request at the June 9th Council meeting I was inf0r%ed additional t~me wa~ needed for review and suDo]ementation o¢ tnt recor'd. TO da%e, I have received nothing fur=her From the aPPlicants, their attorney of City staff ~e]atin9 to 5his ma~ter. A= a ~eOu]t, %his ma~er' is OacR before the City Council without chanse s~mce the June 9%h mee%1ng. The issues the Council needs to consider on this apolication are as Does a 16 year de]ay in enforcing the Orovisions of our City Code prohlbiting residential dwellings from having more than one private accessory garage (~ee §~.03~($)(~)) constitute a "variance by estoppel" preventing the City from enforcing this coOe section at thi~ time? 2.) Is the restriction o¢ New Hope CoOe §4.032(3)(~) reasonable and dues i% promote a legitimate governmental {nterest in ligh~ Of the fact §§4.022(2)(e) and (h) would allow a 900 mc.~t, accesmory storage building {ri addizion to a garage? Regarding %he first issue, a 16 year delay does cast some doubt on the City's aDi]ity to enforce §~.03Z(3)(g) a~ this time. The cases ! have found on this issue go both ways. The general rule is that past inaction Dy a municipality do~ not orodu~:e an estoppel ~o teS~ for determining when a "variance Dy ~s~o~el" arises. Cour%~ wilt consider the fo~lowin~ Factors aS relevanc ~o the issue: a long period of Fai lur~ to enforc~ the law w~,em City knew or ~houl d of knowm of the violasioq, conjunction with some form 01' active acquiescence, 2.) did the landowne~ act in 9Pod ~ai%h and rely innocently ~Con the validity or the use 5hroughout ~he time Defied Of monenforcement, has the landowner made suOs~anSia] exDe~dituFes i,t Fe]iance upon a ~e]iee that %he use was Fermitt~d~ would the denial of the variarlue impose an umnecessary hardship on ~he landowner, and 5.) ix the ume a threat to the public health or safe%y. Based on 5~e fac%$ of this case, it is my opinion these f~ve questio~s would be answered in favor of the proper~y uwner. Re~ardir~ issue number two, the City meeds to reconsider either its accessory storage buildings. Basically, we allow a residential oroperty to have a sarase and a storage building. ~urther, the square footage for eac~ could be 900 sq. feet (1800 %oral sq. feet for both structures) or 2~ o~ the rear yard whichever is smm~ler (see §~.032(3)(e)). However, two garages are no~ allowed (see §~.03~(3)(g)). The only difference between these situations is t~at in the first situatiom inside motor vehicle parking is not permitted in both $truc~ures. ~ am nard Dressed to th~nk of a legitimate ~oYernmen~al reason limi~ %he inside storage of mobor ve~icles, especially in %his day o~ "mu]~-veh~cle" families. Our current code seems to promote a backwar~ policy of encouraging outdoor Darki~ and s~orage of motor vehicles. We shoutd ask curse]yes the Question why w~ would permit a gO0 s~. ~eet stora~ facility on residential property Dui then prohibit ~ne property owner From ~toring motor vehicles in Such a building if there iS another garage on the ~roDerty? In the present case the attached garage is 288 sq. fee% an~ the ~etache~ ~arage is 578 sQ. Feet. Total s~orag~ s~ace on the ~a~e 3. co~e allows f~ a second accessory ~torage bu~]~ng im a~ditian ~o cvarh@ad door on the attmche~ garage only c~an~es the cond~t~ at the structume. Thi~ seem~ like a ~ot oF troubl~ for very little ~enm¢it, i~ any ~e~e~it a~ all, con$i~erin~ another car may be s'=o~e~ outside instead of ~n a Gara~a. contact me ~{ you have any u~her ~ues~iom$ or co~ments abcu% Very truly SbeYen A, $onOrall cc' Oan Oonahue REQUEST FOR ACTION Originating Department Approved for Agenda Agenda Section Development City Manager & Planning 7-28-97 Kirk McDonald ~ Item No. By: Management Assistant ~y 8.5 RESOLUTION AWARDING CONTRACT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF 1997 BACKYARD DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 583 At the June 9 Council meeting, the City Council approved the plans and specifications for the 1997 Backyard Drainage Improvement Projects and authorized advertisement for bids for Improvement Project No. 583. Bids for the project were opened on July 23 and staff is requesting that the Council consider the award of the bid at the July 28 Council meeting. Per the attached letter from the City Engineer, Jay Bros., Inc. submitted the Iow bid in the amount of $88,675.00. Due to the fact that the City receives a number of requests for backyard drainage improvements, but has limited funding, the Council prioritized the requests based on staff recommendations and on need from an engineering standpoint. The basis for constructing backyard drainage projects is based on the need for storm sewer because acceptable grades for backyard drainage swales cannot be met. In addition, abutting property owners must be agreeable to grant temporary or permanent easements to accommodate construction. Projects are prioritized on how fiat the slopes are in the drainage swales and the size of the drainage area. The Council approved plans and authorized bids for four (4) areas/priorities. Listed below are the four areas with the estimated construction cost, the actual construction cost based on the bid, and the actual construction cost based on the bid plus 25 percent indirect costs for engineering services (or the actual cost to the City). (cont'd.) MOTION BY SECOND BY ' TO: Review: Administration: Finance: RFA-O01 ~ Request for Action Page 2 7-28-97 Estimated Actual Priority Area and Location Construction Construction No. Costs Costs with Bid Actual Construction Costs with Bid +25% Indirect Costs for Engineering 1 Area I - 46t" / Winnetka Avenues $36,200.00 $25,883.60 $32,354.50 2 Area 6 - 40t" / Boone Avenues (east 24,500.00 26,129.45 32,661.81 side) 3 Area 7 - Terra Linda Park 15,000.00 15,960.99 19951.23 4 Area 2 - Little Acre Park 16,800.00 20,700.96 25,876.20 TOTAL $92,500.00 $88,675.00 $110,843.74 The Terra Linda Park improvement ($19,951.23) would be funded out of Park CIP Surplus and priorities 1,2 and 4 ($90,892.51) would be funded out of the Storm Water Utility Fund. The City Attorney has prepared the enclosed resolution awarding the contract to Jay Bros., Inc. in the amount of $88,675.00. Staff recommends approval of the resolution. --Z -! _ ~, n,- i -: ',"" -'~? "" :-'ia ' ":~ ~,!1 ' ~il :II ' ,:II:c).:'} -I COUN~ REQUEST FOR ACTION Originating Department Approved for Agenda Agenda Section City Manager 8.6 ~-~.)7-28-97 Stephanie Olson Item No. /~// Developmen~ By: Community Development Specialist By: & Planning . / RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PURC/"tASE OF 9116 31s'r AVENUE NORTH (IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 589) In January, City Council authorized staff to obtain an appraisal for the property at 9116 31" Avenue North. The fair market value of the first appraisal was $80,000. In staffs opinion, this value did not accurately reflect the deteriorated state of the home. Therefore, a second appraisal was obtained with an "as is" market value of $61,250 and an "as repaired" value of $80,000. As the Council may be aware. this has been a problem property for many years with significant water problems due to the grades around the home. On June 23, the City Council authorized staff to negotiate for the purchase of 9116 31" Avenue. After negotiating with the owner's representative, both the City and the seller reached an agreement on a purchase price of $61,250, the "as is" market value of the second appraisal. A purchase agreement has been generated by the Assistant City Attorney and signed by the owner. Barbara Yesnes, and City Manager, contingent upon City Council approval of the attached resolution and County approval of an environmental assessment. The City will close on the property in October. After the closing, staff will develop plans and specifications for rehabilitating the existing home and present them to the Council for approval. After the rehab has been completed the home will be place for sale to a Iow/moderate income person or family. Staff has secured funds for the purchase and rehab of the home from Metropolitan Council and CHDO. Staff recommends approval of the Resolution Authorizing the Purchase of 9116 31" Avenue North. MOTION BY SECOND BY TO: Review: AdmtnlstraUon: Finance: RFA-O01 ~ UOUI~ICIL REQUEST FOR ACTION Originating Department Approved for Agenda Agenda Section Managers Department Development & Planning July 28, 1997 Item No. Stephanie Olson By: Community Dev. Specialist By:. 8.7 RESOLUTION AWARDING CONTRACT FOR THE BUILDING REHABILITATION AT 5212 WINNETKA AVENUE NORTH (IMPROVEMENT PROJECT 573) On August 26, 1996 the City Council authorized the purchase of the home at 5212 Winnetka Avenue North under HUD Direct and Private Sale program for $77,400, including a $5,000 reduction for a wet basement and a 10% reduction for direct sale to the City. The home is surrounded by other homes in fair to good condition and this property is a detriment to the neighborhood. The home has water problems due to the Iow elevation of the garage, the living area addition above the garage does not meet code requirements, there is a full kitchen/apartment in the basement (which is not allowed by code), and the interior and exterior of the home is in deteriorating condition. At the June 9 City Council meeting, the City Council approved plans and specifications and authorized staff to seek bids for the rehabilitation of 5212 Winnetka Avenue North. The City worked with Project for Pride in Living to develop plans and specifications for two rehabilitation options, a basic rehabilitation and an alternate rehabilitation. The basic specifications include rehabilitating the existing structure and the alternate specifications include demolishing the south portion of the house, from the garage and up, and raising/rebuilding the garage and restoring the basement to the original condition. Staff explored several options for the home in addition to the rehabilitations listed above, including demolition and new construction. After discussions with the City Manager, the alternate rehabilitation was determined the best solution. The City of New Hope published a request for bids, in the SunPost on July 9 and Construction Bulletin on July 4 and 11, for the rehabilitation of a single family home at 5212 Winnetka Avenue North. Bids were opened on July 21, and the following bids were received: Contractor Base Bid Alternate Bid AA Contracting $62,208 $73,620 Anton Construction, Inc. $69,095 $84,645 MOTION BY SECOND BY TO: Review: Administration: Finance: RFA-O01 ~ CityCouncfl-Juiy28 1997 Page 2 AA Contracting, the Iow bidder, does not hold a current State Residential Contractor's License, which ~s a requirement in the specifications and staff does not find that the bid on several of the improvements, ~ncluding insulation and siding, is responsible. After consulting the City Attorney, staff does not feel that AA Contracting is the lowest responsible bidder, and staff recommends awarding the contract for the alternate bid to Anton Construction, Inc. in the amount of $84.645. An estimated budget for the project is attached. The City will utilize the following funding sources: Metro HRA Housing Assistance Loan, HOME funds, CDBG Scattered Site Housing funds, and revenue from the sale of the home. After the home is rehabilitated, it will be sold to a Iow/moderate income resident. Staff recommends approval of the Resolution Awarding Contract for the Building Rehabilitation at 5212 Winnetka Avenue North. REQUEST FOR ACTION Originating Department Approved for Agenda Agenda Section Ordinances & Resolutions Parks and Recreation (-~7/28/97 Item No. By: Shad French B~.//. 10.t / ORDINANCE NO. 97-17, AN ORDINA/NCE AMENDING THE NEW HOPE CITY CODE REGULATING THE SALE AND PURCHASE OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS Since June of 1996, with the assistance of School Liaison Officer Tim Fournier, the Citizens Advisory Commission has studied the City's ordinance relating to tobacco products. The recommendation of the CAC for a stricter ordinance was presented to the Council in December of 1996. At that time the Council directed the CAC to obtain input from license holders and other agencies. License holders were invited to the CAC meeting of June 16, 1997, to offer feedback regarding the proposed ordinance. Only two license holders appeared at the meeting and both spoke in favor of the proposed ordinance noting that it would help businesses be consistent with enforcing the ordinance. Also, staff has had several phone conversations witiq Peter Jude who represents the Minnesota Coalition of Responsible Retailers. There does not appear to be opposition from license holders. Our current code allows for cigarette vending machines. The proposed ordinance is modeled according to Plymouth's ordinance and makes all tobacco vending machine sales illegal unless the machine itself is electronically activated by the licensee or the machine is located in a non- public area without access by minors. The licensing process will involve a premises survey conducted by the Police Department. The proposed ordinance adds two new sections: Self-Service Merchandising and Employee Violations. Self-service merchandising may only be conducted if: 1) the tobacco products are in direct wow and in no case more than 20 feet from the primary cashier, and 2) meets one of the following security requirements: within 3 feet of the cashier or in an enclosed case which registers an audible alarm when opened or, in a totally controlled separate area, or an approved electromc security system is in place. The second section, Employee Violations, makes the licensee MOTION BY SECOND BY TO: Review: Administration: Finance: RFA-O01 ~ RFA 7/28/97 Page 2 ' responsible for the conduct of its employees. Also, the proposed ordinance imposes penalties for ordinance violations. All current license holders would be notified of the new ordinance and would have until November 1st to come into compliance. Staff recommends adoption of the new ordinance. ~CCOTJ~I~ ~ 105 106 109 !20 123 i24 134 139 154 !65 17! 172 176 179 181 186 225 229 230 236 238 242 247 255 260 267 268 271 325 326 Cigarette Licenses (7/23/97) Vending Machines & Over the Counter LICENSE NAME LICENSE ADDRESS APPLEBEE' S MOBIL WALGREEN COMPAN-Y Y-NOTS LIQUOR & SPIRITS BROA/DWAY MOBIL WINNETtCA 42ND UNOCAL 76 FAS TLA_NE M3~RKE T KEN' S AUTO REPAIR NEW HOPE TEXACO WINNETKA LIQUORS K-MART LAKESIDE LIMITED TOM' S NEW HOPE SPUR TOBACCO DEALS MIDLAND STANDARD NEW HOPE BOWL SINCLAIR MARKETING COMPANY SNYDER' S DRUG STORE TOBACCO OUTLET PLUS ~553 NORTHRIDGE P HA_RMACY SUNSHINE FACTORY BONKERS DISCOUNT CIGARETTES TOM THUMB NEW HOPE 76 WINNETKA STANDARD TOTAL M~kRT TOTAL M.~RT STAR LIQUORS TWIN CITIES STORES, INC. SUPER AMERICA Count: 30 4203 WiNnETKA AVENUE NORTH 9400 36TH AVENUE NORTH 3566 WINNETKA AVENUE NORTH 7910 BASS LAKE ROAr) 6113 WEST BROA/DWAY 4200 WINNETKA AVENUE NORTH 6026 WEST BROADWAY 7901 BASS LAKE ROAD 9400 49TH AVENUE NORTH 3544 WINNETKA AVENUE NORTH 4300 XYLON AVENUE NORTH 5001 BOONE AVENUE NORTH 7300 BASS LAKE ROAD 2767 WINNETKA AVENUE NORTH 7850 27TH AVENUE NORTH 7107 42ND AVENUE NORTH 9456 27TH AVENUE NORTH 2705 WINNETKA AVENUE NORTH 3550 WINNETKA AVENUE NORTH 5430 BOONE AVENUE NORTH 7600 42ND AVENUE NORTH 7141 42ND AVENUE NORTH 2720 WINNETKA AVENUE NORTH 3601 WINNETKA AVENUE NORTH 7900 BASS LAKE ROAD 7231 42ND AVENUE NORTH 7117 BASS LAKE ROAD 4455 WINNETKA AVENUE NORTH 3535 WINNETKA AVENUE NORTH 6144 WEST BROADWAY REVEN73E DES CIGARETTES CIGARETTES CIGARETTES CiGA%ETTES CIG~%ETTES CIGARETTES CiGA%ETTES CIGARETTES CIGARETTES CIGARETTES CIG~%ETTES CIGARETTES CIGARETTES CIGARETTES CiGArETTES CIGARETTES CIGARETTES CIGARETTES CiG.~RETTES CIGARETTES CiGA~ET_zS CiSARETTES CIGARETTES CIGarETTES CIGARETTES CIGARETTES Page 1 PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT Second Quarter 1997 Report The Planning Commission reviewed the following cases during the second quarter: Month No, of Cases Notices Sent January 0 0 February 0 0 March 2 22 April 5 0 May 3 0 June 3 78 Month Request Number Approved Denied Withdrawn Tabled Jan. Feb. March Prel. Plat 1 1 Ord.-Towers 1 1 April Sign Plan Amend. 1 1 Ord.-Towers 1 1 Ord.-Signs 1 ' 1 Ord.-Pla. Com. 1 1 Ord.-Shoreland 1 1 May SBPR 1 1 Ord.-Signs 1 1 Ord.-Hol. Signs 1 1 June Variance 1 1 CUP 2. 1 1 [TOTALS 13 10 I 3 Year To Date Approved Denied Withdrawn Tabled Comp Sign Plan Amend. 1 Ordinances 5 2 Plat Site/Bldg Plan Review 1 Variance 2 CUP 1 1 YEAR TO DATE TOTAL 10 3 PLANNING/DEVELOPMENT ISSUES t. Planning Case 97-04, Comprehensive Sign Plan Amendment, 9413 36~ Avenue - At the April 1 Planning Commission meeting, the Commission recommended approval of the Comprehensive Sign Plan Amendment for the building at the southwest corner of 36® and Hillsboro Avenues. subject to the condition that any plantings disturbed be replaced. The City Council condurred with this recommendation at its April 14 meeting. Ordinance No, 97-04/Planning Case 96-24, An Ordinance Amending New Hope Zoning Code by Establishing Regulations for Construction and Placement of Telecommunication Towers and Facilities - After a six-month study by City staff, City Attorney, Planning Consultant and the Cable Commission, the Codes & Standards Committee of the Planning Commission reviewed this ordinance and presented it at the April 1 Planning Commission meeting. The Commission recommended approval. At the April 14 City Council meeting, the Council adopted the ordinance. 3. Ordinance No. 97-18, An Ordinance Repealing the Temporary Prohibition of Transmission and Reception Facilities of Radio Common Carriers - At the April 14 City Council meeting, the Council repealed the tower moratorium after the adoption of the tower ordinance. 4. Ordinance No. 97.14/Planning Case 97-05, Establishing New Hope Planning Commission - At the April 1 Planning Commission meeting, the Commission recommended several minor wording changes regarding gender to the ordinance establishing the Planning Commission. The City Council concurred with the changes at its April 14 meeting as recommended by the Planning Commission. 5. Resignation of Vi Underdahl from the Planning~Commission - At the April 14 City Council meeting, the Council accepted the resignation of Vi Underdahl and thanked her for her 5½ years of service with the passage of a resolution. Planning Case 96-27, Comprehensive Plan Update - At the April 14 City Council meeting, the Council approved a proposal from Northwest Consultants to prepare the update for the Comprehensive Plan for an amount not to exceed $30,000. 7. Improvement Project #587, Senior Center Study - At the April 14 City Council meeting, the Council approved a proposal by Essential Decisions, Inc. to conduct a Market Analysis for the Senior Center study in the amount of $11,600. 8, Resolution Approving 1997-2 Amendment to Master Modification to Redevelopment Plans and Tax Increment Financing Plans and Requesting the Approval of the City Council: City/CareBreak Senior Center Development, 5425 & 5501 Boone Avenue - At the March 24 City Council meeting, the Council set Apdl 28 as the public hearing date for consideration of amendments to redevelopment plans, redevelopment projects and tax increment financing plans regarding City-owned properties at 5425 and 5501 Boone Avenue. The amendments relate to the construction of a senior adult day care center and senior resource center on the property and would authorize use of tax increments for the costs of the construction and equipping a senior center. The public hearing was held at the April 28 City Council meeting. The Council and EDA approved the amendments and authorized up to $2,500,000 in TIF funds to be used for the center, subject to future specific approvals by the Council. 9. Discussion Regarding Release of Security for Kimball Addition (Planning Case 94-15) - At the April 28 City Council meeting, the Council discussed the drainage issue and grade of the overland swale between Lots 7 and 8, which needed to be corrected prior to the release of the security. Staff was directed to prepare a report on the options and legal considerations and present it at the May 12 meeting. There were on-going discussions with the developer on this issue throughout the second quarter. The Council approved a proposal by the developers to improve the grade on the site, but no action has been taken. 10. Improvement Project #597, Acquisition of 9200 49~ Avenue - At the beginning of the year. staff was contacted by the owner of the property at 9200 49"' Avenue, Clarence Brandell. to determine whether the City might be interested in purchasing this 2.8 acre site. A portion of this property has been identified as a potential site for a water quality pond to help improve the quality of the large wetland north of and adjacent to the site. At the February 24-City Councit meeting, the Council authorized staff to obtain an appraisal on the property. At the April 28 Council meeting, the Council authorized staff to negotiate with the property owner, and at the May 12 meeting, the City Council considered a purchase agreement for the site. 11. New Planning Commissioner Appointed - Kathi Hemken was appointed to the Planning Commission and took the oath of office at the April 28 Council meeting. 12. Planning Case 97-06, Request for Site and Building Plan Review/Approval for OfficeAiVarehouse Construction, 7300 49~ Avenue North - At the May 6 Planning Commission meeting, the Commission approved the site and building plan for the 120,000 square foot office/warehouse development at 7300 49~ Avenue, subject to several conditions. The Council concurred with the recommendations of the Planning Commission at its May t2 Council meeting. 13. Ordinance No. 97-19~Planning Case 97-07, An Ordinance Amending the New Hope Sign Code by Exempting "Holiday Signs" From Permitting Requirements - The Codes & Standards Committee of the Planning Commission studied this issue and recommended adoption of the ordinance at the May 6 Planning Commission meeting. The Council adopted the ordinance at the May 12 City Council meeting. 14. Ordinance No. 97-08~Planning Case 97-02, An Ordinance Amending the New Hope Sign Code by Permitting the Use of Non. Commercial Opinion Signs, and Amending the Purpose and Political Signage Section - The Codes & Standards Committee of the Planning Commission studied this issue and recommended adoption of the ordinance at the May 5 Planning Commission meeting. The Council adopted the ordinance at the May 12 City Council meeting. 15. Resolution Authorizing Release of Certificate of Deposit for Brandell 2~d Addition - At the May 12 City Council meeting, the Council approved the release of the certificate of deposit that the City was holding for improvements for Brandell 2"4 Addition at 9401 Science Center Drive, as all improvements had been completed. 16. Resolution Authorizing Release of Performance Bond for Taber Bushnell (Planning Case 96-02) - At the May 12 City Council meeting, the Council approved the release of the performance bond for site improvements for the Taber Bushnell property at 7709 Winpark Drive, as all improvements had been completed. 17. Improvement Project #595, Demolition of City. Owned Building at 7528 42~d Avenue - At the May 12 Council meeting, the City Council approved plans and specifications and authorized advertisement for bids for the demolition of the City-owned building at 7528 42"4 Avenue. At the June 9 Council meeting, the Council awarded the bid for the demolition to the Iow bidder, F.W. Gartner, Inc., in the amount of $44,484.30. Agreement was also reached with the Sunshine Factory on the construction of a temporary parking lot on the site. The Sunshine Factory will pay all costs associated with the construction of the parking lot. A pre-construction meeting was held with the contractor in June, a project bulletin was mailed to surrounding properties, and demolition started at the end of June. All demolition and parking lot construction will be completed by July 31. 18. Planning Commission/City Council Work Session - On May 4 the City Council conducted a work session with the Planning Commission to discuss the planning/zoning process, updating the Comprehensive Plan and other long-range planning and code related activities. 19. Pawn Shop Work Session - On May 14 the City Council conducted a work session to discuss the Pawn Shop licensing and Zoning ordinances. The general direction to staff was to continue to refine the ordinances to exempt SedG'ha H~i'~d Goods Dealers from licensing requirements and to extend the moratorium until September. 20. Resolution Authorizing Release of Irrevocable Letter of Credit for Gill Brothers Funeral Chapel, 7300 42~ Avenue (Planning Case 95-18) - At the May 27 City Council meeting, the Council approved the release of the letter of credit as ail improvements had been completed. 21. Planning Case 97-09, Request for a Variance to Allow a Second Existing Garage to Remain in Place, 5933 Boone Avenue - At the June 3 Planning Commission meeting, the Commission denied approval of the request. Per the request of the petitioners, this item was tabled by the City Council until the July 28 Council meeting. 22. Planning Case 97-10, Request for a Conditional Use Permit to Allow Installation of Telecommunications Tower at 2900 Nevada Avenue - At the June 3 Planning Commission meeting, CB Commercial presented a proposal to erect a 100-foot communications tower on the Northland Mechanical Contractors property at 2900 Nevada Avenue. The request was tabled until July, pending receipt of additional information. 23. Planning Case 97-11, Request for a Conditional Use Permit Amendment to Allow an Extension onto the Existing Tower for Telecommunications Wireless Service, 5008 Hillsboro Avenue - At the June 3 Planning Commission meeting, the Commission approved the request to install an extension on the existing communications tower at 5008 Hillsboro, subject to several conditions. At the June 9 City Council meeting, the Council concurred with the recommendations of the Planning Commission. 24. Motion Authorizing Submittal of Local Planning Assistance Grant to Metropolitan Council - At the June 9 Council meeting, the Council authorized staff to submit a grant application to the Metropolitan Council in the amount of $20,000 for consulting expenses that will be incurred to update the Comprehensive Plan. The application was completed by the Management Intern and submitted in mid-July. 25. Ordinance No. 97-03/Planning Case 96-04, An Ordinance Amending the New Hope Zoning Code by Establishing Pawn Shops as a Permitted Use in the B-4 Zoning District - At the June 9 City Council meeting, this item was tabled until the September 22 Council meeting, as the Automated Pawn System is not yet in operation. 26. Ordinance No. 97-2/Planning Case 96-04, An Ordinance Amending Chapter 8 of the New Hope City Code by Establishing Licensing Regulations for Pawnbrokers, Precious Metal and Second Hand Goods Dealers - At the June 9 City Council meeting, this item was tabled until the September 22 Council meeting. At the May work session on this subject, the Council indicated that they were concerned about including second hand goods dealers, which would include consignment shops, in the licensing regulations of this ordinance. The Codes & Standards Committee of the Planning Commission will be reviewing this issue and recommending changes to the ordinances during the summer. 27. Ordinance No. 97-2'1, An Ordinance Amending the New Hope Code by Extending the Moratorium on Pawn Shops - At the June 9 Council meeting, the moratorium on pawn shops was extended to September 22. 28. Ordinance No. 97-20, An Ordinance Amending New Hope Code Section 4.074(4)(f) by Requiring Annual Review and Monitoring of Group Care Facilities by the Department of Protective Inspections -This ordinance, which made a minor amendment regarding who would conduct inspections, was adopted at the June 9 City Council meeting. 29. Improvement Project #598, Resolution Vacating Storm Sewer and Utility and Drainage Easements at 7300-7390 49~ Avenue - At the June 9 City Council meeting, the Council approved the vacation of the easements, subject to the dedication of new easements and other conditions. 30. Improvement Project #598~ Resolution Rescinding Resolution Declaring Adequacy of Petition for Public Storm Sewer Improvement at 7300 49~ Avenue - Due to the fact that the City and developer could not reach an agreement for cost sharing, the developer withdrew his request for a public improvement project at the June 9 Council meeting. 31. Planning Case 97.06, Resolution Approving Revised Grading, Drainage and Utility Plan for Office/Warehouse Construction at 7300 49~ Avenue - At the June 9 Council meeting, the Council approved a revised grading/drainage/utility plan for the site, with the new storm sewer being installed around the building and connecting back into the City's existing storm sewer on the site. 32. Planning Case 97.03, Preliminary Plat Approval of St. Therese Nursing Home - During the fourth quarter of 1996, the Planning Commission and City Council approved the site/building plan for parking lot expansion at St. Therese Nursing Home, subject to several conditions. One of the conditions included platting of all of the parcels into one lot within six months of the approval and providing necessary easements. At the March 4 Planning Commission meeting, the Commission approved the Preliminary Plat for St. Therese Nursing Home, subject to seVeral conditions. The City Council approved the Preliminary Plat at its March 10 meeting. During the second quarter, staff continued coordination with St. Therese and met with them several times regarding a revised site plan. It is anticipated that the final plat will be submitted during the third quarter. 33. Codes & Standards Committee - The Committee began work on ordinances regarding communication towers, DNR Shoreland Management regulations during the first quarter. During the second quarter, the Committee studied holiday signage, commercial signs in residential districts, a Golden Valley Comp Plan amendment, licensing of second hand goods dealers which is a continuation of the pawn shop ordinance, real estate signs in residential districts, convenience food/restaurant code text issues, and R-1 district performance standards. 34. Design & Review Committee - The Design & Review Committee did not meet during the first quarter since no planning applications were received requiring review by the Committee. During the second quarter, the Committee reviewed plans for the new Hoyt Development project, the two communication towers, and a home occupation CUP. 35. Comprehensive Plan Update Committee - Dudng the second quarter, staff began organizing the Comprehensive Plan Update Committee and continued coordination with the Planning Consultant on the schedule/outline for the update. The Committee will consist of several members from the Planning Commission and Citizens Advisory Commission and City staff. The first Committee meeting will be held on August 12. It is anticipated that the Committee will meet for a one-year period to update the plan. 36. Met Council Projections - Before work can proceed on the Comprehensive Plan Update, the City must reach agreement with the Metropolitan Council on their population, housing and employment forecasts for the year 2020. Dudng the second quarter, staff and Planning Consultant met several times to review the projections and reach agreement on a response. The City will be meeting with the Met Council representative for this area in July to finalize and agree upon the projections. 37. Creamettes- In Apdl the City staff attended a meeting at the Creamettes facility regarding potential City financial assistance with Industrial Development Revenue Bonds to support an employee buy-out of the facility. It is anticipated that this issue will be discussed by the City Council during the third quarter. 38. Potential Development with Upper Midwest Management Corporation - Shortly after the City closed on the acquisition of the property at 9200 49~ Avenue, the City met with representatives of Upper Midwest Management Corporation regarding a potential cooperative development of the site. Upper Midwest Management Corporation owns the office building adjacent to this site and is interested in a potential twin office building. Staff is currently coordinating with architects .representing Upper Midwest Management Corporation on the development of a concept site plan for the property. 39. Winnetka Shopping Center- The City continued to communicate with the management for Winnetka Shopping Center regarding potential uses for the vacant SuperValu space and met with SuperValu and Winnetka Center representatives in mid-June. Staff also has responded to a number of inquiries about the space. 40. Potential West Pac Expansion - At the first part of June staff met with an official from West Pac Manufacturing regarding a potential future expansion of that facility. 41.42"~ & Quebec Redevelopment - During the second quarter, the appraisal for the Ardel Engineering property at 7500 42"d Avenue was updated to facilitate future negotiations on the acquisition of that site. 42. TwinWest New Hope/Crystal Business Council - During the second quarter, staff continued coordination with the New Hope/Crystal Business Council, which was initiated by TwinWest last year. The purpose of the Council is to enhance business relationships with the local community, to provide access to the business community on local issues, and to encourage economic vitality through business retention and job creation. The Council holds monthly meetings and is comprised of business members from both Crystal and New Hope. New Hope hosted the April meeting and a fund-raiser will be held at the New Hope Golf Course in August. 43. Business Link Newsletter - The Management Assistant, Community Development Specialist, and Building Official have been publishing/distributing the New Hope Business Link newsletter on a quarterly basis for two years, and the newsletter has been received enthusiastically by the business community. The spring issue of the Business Link, which spotlighted Robinson Rubber, was mailed to all New Hope businesses in May. Staff is currently coordinating on the summer issue, which will be mailed in August and spotlight Mello Smello. 44. Science Industry Park Bus Route - Staff continues to coordinate with the MCTO regarding the new bus route that was established as a pilot project last year for Science Industry Park businesses. Staff met with the MCTO in April and they indicated that if ridership did not increase, the route may have to be discontinued. As a result of that meeting, staff has been contacting the major businesses in Science Industry Park to arrange on-site meetings with the MCTO about this issue. 45. TwinWest Executive Call Program - During the second quarter, staff completed calls to several New Hope businesses in conjunction with the TwinWest Chamber of Commerce. Businesses that were called on included A.C. Carlson, Taber Bushnell, and Navarre Corporation. 46. Audit Information - During the second quarter, staff updated the economic development information for the annual audit and sent out confirmation letters to businesses involved in past EDA projects. 47. Business Promotion - During the second quarter, staff coordinated several meetings with New Hope retail businesses regarding a potential 1997/98 Business Promotion. Staff is currently working with a sub-committee on the idea of publishing a Business Directory. Once bids have been received, the idea will be presented to businesses and the City Council. 48. Enterprise Facilitation Demonstration Project- During the second quarter staff continued to coordinate with Hennepin County Department of Jobs & Training regarding a potential demonstration'project with New Hope and Crystal to encourage business development and expansion in the two cities. 49. Improvement Project #584, Request by Grace Management, /nc. to Acquire Portion of City Property for Building and Parking Lot Expansion - During the fourth quarter of 1996, the Council discussed a request by Grace Management, 3701 Winnetka Avenue, to acquire additional property at the rear .(west) of their site for building/parking lot expansion purposes. The property west of the site is owned by the City and is associated with Northwood Park. The Council directed staff to cooperate with Grace Management on the request and staff contacted BCL Appraisals for an appraisal on the property. BCL Appraisals performed the work and determined that the property value is $2,550. At the February 10 Council meeting, the Council approved the concept of the sale of the City-owned property and expansion of Grace Management, but said that no further action would be taken until Grace Management commits to the proposed expansion. During the second quarter, staff maintained communication with Grace Management and they will be submitting concept plans for a building expansion this fall. 50. Kmart Site - City staff met with the owners of the Kmart property in November 1996 regarding potential redevelopment of the site. During the second quarter, the property owners contacted the City and indicated that Kmart had renewed their lease for five years and may be upgrading the store, but that the site would not be redeveloped at this time. 51. Homeward Bound Site - City staff continued to maintain contact with the real estate firm that is marketing the Homeward Bound facility dudng the second quarter. 52. Community Development Specialist - During the first quarter this position was advertised, due to the departure of Sarah Bellefuil, and several candidates were interviewed. Stephanie Olson was hired and began on March 31. Her responsibilities will include housing and redevelopment activities, business retention programs, communication issues (City newsletter), the Business Link newsletter, and assisting the Management Assistant/Community Development Coordinator in a variety of other community development projects. 53. IVlanagement Intern - Candidates for the summer management intern position were interviewed in May and Jacquie Desautels was hired and began work the first part of June. The management intern assists the Manager's Department with a variety of on-going and special projects, including updating the available space inventory, updating the ADA City facilities report, completing the Comprehensive Plan grant application and assisting with the Business Promotion Directory. Kirk McDonald Management Assistant/Community Development Coordinator PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT Second Quarter 1997 Report City Council Synopsis The first half of 1997 proved to be very successful in the planning and development areas, with a number of goals and obje. ctives being met. Listed below is a synopsis of the events and projects that took place during the second quarter. Please refer to the complete report for more details. City Proiects 1. Comprehensive Plan Update: The City is gearing up to update the Comprehensive Plan, a process that wi//take approximately one year. All cities in the metro area have been directed by the metropolitan Council to update their plans by December 1998. During this quarter, the City Council approved a proposal from Northwest Consultants to work with the City on this process. A committee is in the process of being formed to update the p/an consisting of several members of the Planning Commission, Citizen Advisory Commission and City staff. The Council a/so authorized the submission of a grant application to the Metropolitan Council to help finance the cost of the p/an update. /n addition, staff met with Metropolitan Council representatives several times this quarter to reach an agreement on growth projections for the City, which must be accompfished prior to initiating work on the update. The Comprehensive P/an Update Committee will be conducting its first meeting in August. 2. 4~'~ Avenue Redevelopment: The City a/so continued the process of redevelopment on 42~ Avenue by awarding a contract to demolish the City-owned building at 7528 4ZTM Avenue this quarter. The Council approved plans and specifications, authorized advertisement for bids, and awarded the contract to the /ow bidder after ali environmental work had been completed. Demo/Non was started at the end of June. The City Council a/so reached an agreement with the Sunshine Factory for the construction of a temporary parking lot on the site, to be financed by the Sunshine Factory. 3. Acquisition of Vacant Industrial Property: During this quarter, the City acquired and closed on a three-acre vacant industrial site at 9200 49~ Avenue. The City has long been interested in this site because of its identification in the Surface Water Management P/an as a potential ponding site for water quality improvements. The City desires to work cooperatively with an appropriate commercial/industrial user to sprit the use of the/and where both the business and the City will benefit, similar to the project on Quebec Avenue. The City is in the process of coordinating with the adjacent property owner on a potential off/ce use for part of the site. 4. Senior Center Facili~: The Council moved forward on its Senior Resource Center initiative this quarter. /n April the Council approved a proposal by Essential Decisions, /nc. to conduct a market analysis for such a center and a focus group has been organized to give input on the study. The EDA and Council a/so approved modifications to the T/F P/an this quarter to allow an expenditure of up to $2, 500, 000 for the center, subject to future approvals by the Council. Private Projects 1. 7300 49~ Avenue: The City Council granted site and building plan approval for the .construction of a 120.000 square foot oNce/warehouse building by Brad Hoyt at 7300 49~ Avenue in May. This n/ne-acre site is the' largest vacant industrial site remaining in the City. The south 40,000 square feet of the building will be/eased to/ntemet, a business currently located in New Hope that needs a larger building. A considerable amount of staff time was spent this quarter on the easement vacation and storm sewer issues related to this project. 2. Creamettes: City staff participated in a brainstorming session in April at the Creamettes facility in an effort to determine financial tools available to assist in an employee buy-out of the operation. Creamettes may be approaching the City during the third quarter to discuss the issuance of/ndustria/Development Revenue Bonds for the project. Ordinances Telecommunications Towers: The City completed its nine-month study and adopted a new ordinance amending the Zoning Code by Establishing Regulations for the Construction and Placement of Telecommunications Towers and repealed the moratorium on the towers. Two applications _were received after the adoption of the ordinance; one to construct a new tower and one to construct an extension on an existing tower. Pawn Shops: The City Council conducted a work session in May to review the proposed pawn shop zoning and licensing ordinances and to discuss the Automated Pawn System technology. These ordinances were tab/ed for further review and the moratorium on pawn shops was extended to September. Business Retention Business Promotion: The City continued to coordinate with the business community during the second quarter on a potential Business Directory and this idea will be presented to businesses and the City Council during the third quarter. 2. Business Link: The spring issue of the Business Link was published in May and 'spotlighted Robinson Rubber. 3. Business Council: Staff also continued coordination with the New Hope/Crystal Business Council sponsored by the Twin West Chamber of Commerce. Miscellaneous 1. Planninq Commission/City Council Work Session: On May 4 the City Council conducted a very productive work session with the Planning Commission. An overview of the planning process and long-term planning issues for New Hope were discussed. 2. Planning Commission Changes: The City Council accepted the resignation of Vi Underdahl and Kathi Hemken was swom in as a new commissioner. 3. Community Development Specialist: Stephanie Olson was hired to replace Sarah Bellefuil as Community Development Specialist at the beginning of April and Stephanie has been utilizing her housing and ADA background on a number of City projects this quarter. Although the number of planning case applications is not what was expected for this quarter, the decrease in applications has provided staff some additional time to deal with special projects, such as the Comprehensive Plan Update, and other important economic development issues, such as updating the available space inventory. In staff's opinion, it was a very productive quarter. Kirk McDonald, Management Assistant/ Community Development Coordinator HOUSING AND REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Second Quarter 1997 Report The New Hope HRA continues to be busy with the management of housing programs and redevelopment activities in the City. Section 8 Rental Assistance Proqram Currently, the Section 8 Rental Assistance Program is providing assistance to 301 New Hope and surrounding area Iow income families. This is somewhat higher than the number families that were being served in March. During this same time period in 1996, New Hope was providing assistance to 276 families, so overall the program is serving more families in 1997 as in 1996 The breakdown is as follows: April 182 97 279 May 197 109 306 June 193 108 301 The number of housing inspections has decreased compared to the same time period in 1996. During the second quarter of 1996, a total of 104 inspections were completed. A breakdown of housing unit inspections for the second quarter is contained in the following table: Section 8 Imfiat' . Reins~ct~.~i,~:-:~:; :::~'~,~3~:: ,, ;;? Yea~.To Date Second Quarter 60 32 92 163 In May 1997, the EDA approved the Second Amendment to the Section 8 Housing Assistance Payments Program Contract for Administrative Services. The contract amendment allows the City of New Hope to administer an additional 23 Section 8 contracts for the City of Osseo. Osseo recently lost the individual that administered its contracts and Metro HRA contacted New Hope to inquire if the City was interested in assuming additional contracts. Metro HRA will be responsible for all inspections for the additional contracts and the New Hope Housing Representative will handle the administrative component of the Contracts. The amendment allowing administration of the contracts will provide additional revenues for the program and will help to insure that the program for Iow/moderate income residents is maintained. Community Development Block Grant Program Housing Rehabilitation Program -- Hennepin County manages the Housing Rehabilitation Program for the City and maintains a waiting list. The funds assist tow income persons in making basic repairs to homes that they own. Currently there are four residential households in the process of being assisted; one being rehabilitated and two on the waiting list. At this time, $64,500 is still available from Year 1994, 1995 and 1996 funds. Scattered Site Housina Proiects During the second quarter, the City continued to pursue several projects that will be funded by CDBG, MHFA, HOME, EDA and City funds. Projects that use these funds include the following: 6067 West Broadway - 6067 West Broadway was purchased from HUD, due to mortgage foreclosure, in October 1995 for $41,400. The site is located in an area previously designated as blighted. The home was in poor condition. The homes adjacent to this property are in good condition, making this property a detriment to the neighborhood. Because of the poor condition of the home, it was demolished on June 17, 1996. Plans and specifications for a new home were created. Construction of the new home began in September and was completed in December. On October 14 the City Council approved plans and specifications for landscaping and authorized staff to obtain quotes. The contract was awarded to Wrobleski's Lawn Service. At the May 27 Council meeting, the Council approved Change Order No. 1 in the amount of $1,300 for additional grading work. All grading, landscaping and driveway installation were completed by the end of May. City Council authorized the publication of notice and holding of the public hearing regarding the sale of the property at the May 12 City Council meeting. The public hearing was conducted on June 9 and the Council passed a resolution authorizing and approving the sale. An open house was held on June 11. At the June 23 Council meeting, the Council took two actions to finalize the project: 1) they approved the final pay request to Equal Access Homes, and 2) they approved a resolution authorizing the execution of the deed and ancillary documents for the sale. 5212 Winnetka Avenue North - On August 14 the City received notice from HUD that the property at 5212 Winnetka Avenue was for sale through its Direct and Private Sales Program. The sale price was $77,400, including a $5,000 wet basement reduction and an additional 10% reduction for direct sale to the City. The City indicated a preliminary interest in the property on August 25, and the City Council authorized the purchase of 5212 Winnetka on August 26. At the time of purchase, the property was in need of major rehabilitation. Staff recommended that outside assistance be sought due to the structural issues involved with the project. At the March 24 City Council meeting, the City Council approved a Letter of Agreement with Project for Pride in Living (PPL) to develop architectural plans and specifications for the rehabilitation work. After discussions with PPL, it was decided two rehabilitation options, a basic rehabilitation and an alternate rehabilitation, would thoroughly address all the rehabilitation issues. While plans and specifications were being developed, on May 27 the City Council approved a survey for the property. The survey was completed by Lot Surveys Company and showed the existing building and elevations. Revisions were made and plans and specifications were finalized in May 1997. At the June 9 Council meeting, the Council approved the plans and specifications and authorized advertisement for bids. The City is currently soliciting bids through advertisements in the SunPost newspaper and Construction Bulletin magazine. Sealed bids will be opened on July 21 at 1:30 p.m. A recommendation to City Council will follow the bid opening. 9116 31't Avenue North. In December a representative of the owner of 9116 31" Avenue North contacted the City to inquire if the City had an interest in acquiring the property due to severe water drainage problems. On January 27 the City Council authorized staff to complete an appraisal of the property. The "fair market value" of the appraisal was $80,000. After reviewing the appraisal, it was staff's opinion that the extensive water damage and code deficiencies had not been accurately addressed. Therefore, a second appraisal was completed by Herman Appraisal Services, Inc. The "as is" market value of the second appraisal was $61,250. On May 27 the City Council authorized staff to negotiate with the property owner for potential acquisition of the property at the lowest of the two appraisal estimates. The property owner was agreeable to the City's' offer. The Assistant City Attorney and staff have completed the necessary paperwork and will be meeting with the property owner to sign the Purchase Agreement on July 23. After the Purchase Agreement has been signed, it will be presented to the Council for approval and staff will make a recommendation to City Council on whether to demolish, build new, or rehabilitate the structure. 5559 Sumter Avenue North - On October 9, 1995, the City Council authorized the purchase of 5559 Sumter Avenue North for $62,000. The existing house was demolished in June of 1996. The City continues to maintain the property for future development or the realignment of Sumter Avenue. 7621 Bass Lake Road - The City Council approved the purchase of 7621 Bass Lake Road on October 23, 1995, and closed on the property in December. The existing house was demolished in June of 1996. The City continues to maintain the property for future development. 5530 Sumter Avenue North - On June 24, 1996, the City Council authorized staff to .negotiate the purchase of 5530 Sumter Avenue North. Staff met with the owner in July. The City purchased the property on August 29, 1996, for $72,000. At the October 14, 1996, City Council meeting, the Council awarded contracts for sealing the well, cutting the sewer and water, disconnecting all utilities, and completing an asbestos survey. The asbestos, found during the survey, was removed in late October. Demolition of the house and garage occurred on October 31, 1996. The City continues to maintain the property for future development. 2709 Lamphere Drive - In May 1997, the owner of 2709 Lamphere Drive sent a letter to the City to inquire if the City was interested in purchasing the property. It was staffs opinion that the home was in good condition and did not need rehabilitation. On June 9 the City Council declined the purchase of the property. 7813/7819 Angeline Drive - Two vacant properties, 7813/7819 Angeline Drive, have been for sale by the owners. Staff has considered purchasing the properties for a handicap accessible twinhome site, in cooperation with CommonBond and/or other nonprofit agencies. If a new twinhome was constructed, drainage issues associated with the adjacent railroad could be corrected. On June 9, 1997, the City Council authorized staff to obtain appraisals for both properties. The fair market value for 7813/7819 Angeline Drive total $31,400. Staff is reviewing the appraisals and will make a recommendation to City Council in the near future. Acquisition/Rehabilitation of Single Family Homes - Staff continually searches for housing in need of rehabilitation. Staff has developed a list of potential redevelopment sites and will contact the owners to determine if they are interested in selling their home to the City. Acquisition/Rehabilitation of properties will be funded through HOME, CDBG, and EDA funds. In addition, the City ~eceived a Metropolitan Council Housing and Redevelopment Authority Housing Assistance Loan for $120,000 in April 1996. The Housing Assistance Loan will be applied toward the purchase and rehabilitation of the home(s) and paid back at the time of sale. HOUSING PROGRAMS/FUNDING MHFA Community Rehabilitation Fund Application - On July 16 the cities of New Hope and Crystal submitted a joint application for MHFA's Community Rehabilitation Fund Program. The purpose of the program is to provide funds for acquisition, demolition, rehabilitation, and/or new construction of single family homes. New Hope and Crystal applied for a combined amount of $95,635.00. Applications wilt be awarded in October. MHFA Community Fix Up Fund - On September 9 the City Council approved a resolution for New Hope, in conjunption with the City of Crystal and Park National Bank, to apply for the MHFA Community Fix-Up. Fund. Early this year, Park National Bank received a letter from MHFA accepting the proposal. The funds allow middle income (maximum gross annual income is $65,895) home owners within designated areas access to funds for home improvements, including "value-added" improvements (i.e., a room addition). Currently there is one New Hope resident who has been accepted for funding and several applications are being reviewed. Metropolitan Council Housing and Redevelopment Authority Housing Assistance Loan - On February 9, 1995, the City submitted two Metropolitan Council Housing and Redevelopment Authority Housing Assistance Loan applications. One application was for $125,000 for the construction of a three bedroom handicap accessible twinhome to be constructed at 6073 Louisiana Avenue North. The second application was for $120,000 for the purchase and rehabilitation of two homes that would be resold to Iow income families after rehabilitation had been completed. The Housing Assistance Loans are zero interest and must be repaid when the sale of the units are complete. Because the twinhome located at 6073/6081 Louisiana Avenue North was completed and sold during the second quarter, the City returned the $125,000 loan back to the Metropolitan Council on December 28, 1996. The second loan for $120,000 will be returned when two rehabilitation projects have been completed. MHFA Minnesota City Participation Proqram The MCPP is a program through the MHFA in which the MHFA sells mortgage revenue bonds on behalf of participating cities to meet locally identified housing needs. The proceeds from the bonds provide below-market interest rate mortgage loans for Iow and moderate income first-time home buyers. The 1997 the MCPP program began in April and runs for eight months. During the first six months, participating cities/counties have exclusive use of their individ, ual allotment. During the final two months, the individual allotments go into a statewide pool that is available to all MCPP participating cities/counties. In January 1997 the City, in conjunction with Hennepin County Housing and Redevelopment Authority, applied for the 1997 MCPP program. On April 17 the County received approximately $8,493,000 in MCPP first-time home buyer funds for 1997. The County administers the funds for New Hope. The funds were committed by the end of June. Applications for the 1998 MCPP funds will be sent to cities in early 1998. Metropolitan Livable Communities Act The Metropolitan Livable Communities Act was enacted in June 1995 by the State Legislature in an attempt to address housing issues in the metropolitan area. The Act also establishes a Metropolitan Livable Communities Fund, which consists of three accounts designated to help improve communities and neighborhoods. The funds in these accounts can only be accessed if a City elects to participate in the Livable Communities Act. The City participated in the Metropolitan Livable Communities Act for the 1996 year, and passed a resolution in October 1996 agreeing to particiPate in t997. CO-OP Northwest 1995 HOME Grant - In 1995 the CHDO hired PPL to act as coordinator for the 1995 HOME grant applications. In April !997 PPL completed and submitted the 1995 HOME application to Hennepin County for $200.000. Out of the grant. New Hope received $90,000 to convert a duplex into a residential style group home facility. New Hope has also received $13,500 in home funds to help finance the construction of a single-family home at 6067 West Broadway. 1996 HOME Grant- The CHDO received $100,000 in HOME funds for 1996. In October the CHDO board approved two New Hope proposals requesting a total of $31,500 in HOME funds. The first request is for $21,500 for the property at 5212 Winnetka Avenue; $9,000 in funds wi!l be for a second mortgage, $10,000 as a rehabilitation grant to the City, and $2,500 for soft costs. The remaining $10,000 was used for the 6067 West Broadway project and was added to the $13,500 in 1995 funds. $5,000 in additional funds went toward a second mortgage and $5,000 toward a grant to the City. 1997 HOME Grant - In 1997 the CHDO received $157,200 in HOME funds. On July 10 the CHDO board approved budgets for 1997. New Hope's proposals included an allocation of $53,370 for two single family rehabilitation projects. Planners Group - During the second quarter, City staff continued to participate in the CO-OP Northwest Planners Group, which, coordinated or planned the following activities: Remodeling Fair- On April 5 the CO-OP Northwest cities sponsored the 5t" annual Northwest Suburban Remodeling Fair, held at the Crystal Community Center. The purpose of the Fair was to encourage homeowners to stay in the City and upgrade/remodel their existing homes. Seventy-five vendors and approximately 2,500 people attended the Fair. New Hope coordinated registrations~ collected revenues, disbursed expenses, and staffed the event. Events of Distinction assisted with the coordination of seminars and doorprizes for the Fair. · Landlords' Forum - Planning is in process for another Landlords' Forum to be held this fall. The City Council and staff also continued to cooperate with multi-family dwelling owners during the second quarter on the following projects: Multi-Family Housing New Hope Apartments - All rehab work was completed on the New Hope Apartments project, with final invoices being submitted for review and payment. The City Council approved the final pay request at the February 10 Council meeting. At the March 10 EDA meeting, the EDA approved an extension of the repayment term of the rehab loan due to the fact that the improvements took longer to complete than originally anticipated. Conversion of 3579/3581 Independence Avenue North for Group Home Facilities - In 1995 the City was awarded $90,000 in HOME funds, through the CHDO, to be used toward a residential style special needs housing facility. The City also committed $90,000 in EDA funds as a zero interest, first mortgage for the Idroject. On September 9, 1996, the EDA approved a loan to Tasks Unlimited to purchase 3579/3581 Independence Avenue and on September 20 Tasks Unlimited closed on the property. Tasks Unlimited presented a remodeling proposal of the duplex to the EDA, which included converting one of the double garages into a recreation room for residents. The remodeling was completed during the second quarter and an open house was conducted on June 5. Sandpiper Condominiums - During the second quarter, staff met with and continued to cooperate with representatives of the Sandpiper Condominiums regarding possible City financial assistance to rehab the complex. Staff and the City Attorney are studying recently passed legislation to determine if it would be applicable to this project. The concept of creating a "housing improvement district" was discussed at the June 9 EDA meeting and the EDA directed staff to proceed with creating an enabling ordinance. Vinland Center- During the second quarter, there were on-going discussions between the City, Vinland Center, Spectrum Community Mental Health and CommonBond regarding a potential collaborative housing venture. The purpose of the project would be to operate a permanent supportive housing facility for individuals with serious mental illness and individuals with chemical dependency/cognitive disability. A presentation on this potential project will be made to the City Council during the third quarter. Project for Pride in Living (PPL) - The City also conducted discussions during the second quarter with Project for Pride in Living regarding a joint multi-fami'ly rehab/new construction project to address the Hollman lawsuit in Minneapolis. It is anticipated that a proposal from PPL may be submitted in the thi'rd or fourth quarters. The projects and activities outlined above address a number of the goals and objectives included in the 1997 housing program statements. Stephanie OIson Community Development Specialist Kirk McDonald Management Assistant/ Community Development Coordinator HOUSING AND REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY 1997 Second Quarter Report City Council Synopsis The second quarter of 1997 was very productive in the housing and redevelopment area with a number of goals being accomplished. Please refer to the full report for more details. The New Hope HRA continued to be busy with the management of housing programs and redevelopment activities in the City during the second quarter. The quarter got off to a successful start on April 5 when the CO-OP Northwest cities sponsored the 5~ annual Northwest Suburban Remodeling Fair, which was held at the Crystal Community Center. The purpose of the Fair was to encourage homeowners to stay in the City and upgrade/remodel their existing homes. A total of 75 vendors set up booths at the Fair and over 2, 500 residents attended the event making it the most successful Fair yet, with New Hope and Crystal doing most of the coordination. In May the EDA approved an amendment to the Section 8 Housing Assistance Payments Program Contract for Administrative Services with the Metropolitan Council. The amendment a/lowed New Hope to take on the administration of an additional 23 Section 8 contracts from Osseo, which will provide additional revenues for New Hope's "on-site" program. A number of scattered site housing rehabilitation and new construction activities continued during the second quarter, under the coordination of Stephanie Olson, the new Community Development Specialist, who started employment with the City in April. These activities included: 6067 West Broadway - All construction on this new single-family home was finalized and the home was sold during the second quarter to a first-time home buyer. An open house was conducted on June 11, and at the June 23 Council meeting, the Council approved a resolution author/z/ng execut/on of the deed. 5212 Winnetka Avenue - The long process of developing detailed plans and specificat/ons for two options to rehabilitate this large single-family home was completed, and in June the City Council approved the plans and specifications and authorized advertisement for bids. The property was also surveyed. 9116 31'~ Avenue - Appraisals were completed on the property and the Counc# authorized staff to negotiate to purchase this property for rehabilitation purposes. An agreement on price was reached with the property owner and staff will be requesting approval of a Purchase Agreement from the Council in July. 78~3/78~9 Anqeline Drive - The City is/nterested in potentially constructing another handicapped accessible twinhome on this property and appraisals were authorized by the Council and completed in June. The C/ty also continued to coordinate on a nUmber of multi-family housing projects during the second quarter. Staff continued to coordinate with Sandpiper Condominiums on a potential creation of a housing /mprovement district where improvements would be undertaken and assessed equally among all property owners. Staff also conducted preliminary meetings with representatives of Vinland Center and Project for Pride in Living regarding potential future collaborative multi-family housing projects. Grants - Staff also continued to coordinate a number of grants during this quarter. The City /s participating in the ,MHFA MCPP First-Time Homebuyers Program and the Community Fix-Up Fund. Requests were also submitted for 1997 CHDO projects to Hennepin County and received approval. A grant was submitted to the Metropolitan Council for an update of the Comprehensive Plan. Lastly, staff began work on an MHFA Community Rehabilitation Fund application which will be submitted jointly with the City of Crystal/n July to provide funds for the acquisition, rehabilitation and/or new construction of single family homes. The projects and activities outlined above address a number of the goals and objectives included in the 1997 housing program statements. P/ease refer to the complete report for more details. Respectfully submitted, Stephsni¢Olson Community Development Specialist Kirk McDonald Management Assistant/ Community Development Coordinator DESCRIPTION -SectiOn HOUSING & REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Second Quarter 1997 APRIL MAY 5/27 Council approves Contract Amendment to administer 23 additional clients from Osseo ~Jcattered Site Housing Projects: 5559 Sumter Avenue City continues to maintain properly for future redevelopment 7621 Bass Lake Road City continues to maintain property for future redevelopment 6067 West Broadway 5530 Sumter Avenue 5212 Winnetka Avenue 9116 31"Avenue 2709 I_amphere Drive 7813/7819 Angeline Drive Special Needs Housing Tasks Unlimited 3579/3581 Independence JUNE 5/12 Council authorizes publication of notice and sets public hearing regarding sale 5~27 Council approves Change Order #1 on landscaping contract for $1300 6/9 Council approved resolution authorizing and approving sale 6111 Open house 6~23 Council approves final payment to Equal Access Homes 6~23 Resolution authorizing execution of deed City continues to maintain properly for future redevelopment Appraisals completed 5/27 Council approves quote from Lot Surveys for survey work $425 5~27 Council authorizes staff to negotiate purchase Property owner contacts City re: City interest in purchasing properly 619 Council approves plans and specifications and authorizes advertisement for bids Staff negotiates purchase agreement with owner 6/9 Council declines purchase of property 6/9 Council authorizes appraisal of property 6/5 Open hodse All work completed DESCRIPTION -~C'DT~-~'F~Tfiii y Rehab Program -Metropolitan Livable Communities Act CHDO Landlords' Forum APRIL On-going gi-~r~ f0~-single ~'ar~iT~ rehab JUNE MCPP and Fix-Up Fund programs on-going Potential joint-City application in 1997 5/12 CHDO presentation made to City Council Planning ~n process for fall forum Remodeling Fair Remodeling Fair held at Crystal Community Center on April 5 'Multi-Family Housing Financial Assistance New Hope Apartments Sandpiper Condominiums Vinland Center Project for Pride in Living Project completed 5~29 Meet with reps of assn. 6/9 Council discusses loan program and establishing Housing Improvement Area ] and directs staff to proceed On-going discussions re: potential joint project On-going discussions re: potential joint project ENGINEERING~ PRpJECTS Second Quarter bf 1997 Report Progress took place on the following major engineering projects during the second quarter: 1. Project #486, Phase I! 36th Avenue Street Improvements from Winnetka to Louisiana Avenues - All work was essentia!ly completed in the fall of 1996 except for restoration and minor punch list items which will be completed in the spring of 1997. At the February 24 City Council meeting, the Council approved Change Order No. 3 in the amount of $22,162.46 for several items, including traffic signal reconstruction. new retaining wall, landscaping (to be paid for in part by the City of Crystal), decorative timber bollards, repair sanitary sewer pipe (to be paid for by King Video Cable), and extension of completion date to allow for completion of all work related to the change orders. Project completion date is now expected to be June 15, 1997. At the June 9 Council meeting, discussion took place regarding the wear course laid last year on Winnetka and what corrective repairs should be made. The contractor has agreed to perform mill/overlay with New Hope funding $28,787.35 and Crystal funding $15,837.00. The Council authorized proceeding with the work. A project bulletin was mailed on June 18 to area residents. 2. Project #498, Northwood Lake Drainage - The Citizens Advisory Commission continued to study this project during the fourth quarter of 1996 and an informational meeting with residents was held on January 28. At the February 10 City Council meeting, a presentation was made to the Council explaining the options available and costs/funding for the project, and the Council directed the City Engineer to prepare a preliminary report on the project. A public information meeting was held at the March 10 City Council meeting and a presentation of the plan was made to the Council. The Council directed the City Engineer to prepare plans and specifications for the improvements. At the May 27 Council meeting, the Council approved plans and specifications and authorized advertisement for bids. Bids were opened on June 18. At the June 23 Council meeting, the Council awarded the contract to Ames Construction with five alternates in the amount of $1,023,249.60. The Council also accepted a petition from area residents at the June 23 meeting. A pre-construction meeting was held on July 9 and a project bulletin was mailed to the neighborhood on July 11. Construction is expected to start the week of July 14. The City is proceeding with the Northwood Lake Storm Sewer, Ponding, and Park Improvement Project in order to reduce the flooding experienced by properties abutting Northwood Lake, to meet required water quality improvement obligations, and to improve the athletic facilities within the park. The Project will include relocating the stream through the park, creating three storm water ponds, reconstructing the Northwood Lake outlet structure and c,ulvert, re-grading two softball fields, constructing new bituminous pedestrian trails, installing two new bridges, installing storm sewer piping, and landscaping all areas disturbed by the construction. Miscellaneous items such as~ fencing, drain tile, benches, sanitary sewer, water main, and rip-rap are also included. 3. Project #536, New Hope Ice Arena Expansion - A grand opening at the Ice Arena was conducted in December with many local officials and residents in attendance. During the second quarter, work focused primarily on completing punch list items for outside utilities and corrective work at the front entrance. At the June 9 Council meeting, the Council approved a change order with St. Paul Linoleum in the amount of $897.00, bringing the total contract amount to $3,688,962.14. At the June 23 Council meeting, the Council authorized final payment to four contractors for the project. 4. Project #542, Public Works Remodeling Project - At the November 12, 1996, City Council meeting, the Council awarded the construction contract to Mikkelson-Wulff in the amount of $710,159.00. Several alternates are. included in the revised project total. Construction began in March 1997. The project is being funded by CDBG funds, 1996 CIP monies, funds from Road & Bridge, Central Garage & Labor Pool. At the February 10 City Council meeting, the Council approved the bid from Satellite Shelters in the amount of $12,282.00 for three trailers to be used as temporary offices during the Public Works remodeling. At the same meeting, the Council approved the bid from Braun Intertec in the amount of $1,337.00 for soils, concrete, and masonry testing. At the March 10 meeting, the City Council awarded the bid for asbestos abatement to Excel Environmental in the amount of $3,090.00. Construction was in process throughout the second quarter. 5. Project #544, Storm Water Pond Improvements at 4400 Quebec - The work on the CCI storm water pond was completed during the third quarter of 1996 and during the fourth quarter, the contractor completed all punch list work except for restoration. At the May 12 Council meeting, the Council awarcted the contract for the pored area plantings to Hild & Associates in the amount of $14,366.00. Funding will be provided from the '1997 Storm Water Utility Fund. 6. Project #547, 42ncl/Xylon Avenue Intersection Upgrade - During the second quarter, the City continuecl coordination w~th Hennepin County and Gethsemane Cemetery on this project. Driveway relocation and landscape plans have been submitted by the architect for the cemetery for along the 42"d Avenue boulevard. Hennepin County has included the project in their 1998 CIP. The County has also determined its cost participation at $410,000.00. The City Engineer is preparing a Feasibility Report which will be completed in July. 7. Project #550, New Hope Elementary School Ballfield Reconstruction - At the June 23 Council meeting, the Council approved the final pay request to S.M. Hentges & Sons in the amount of $4,250.00, as all work had been completed. : 8. Project #551, Louisiana Avenue & 3lst Circle Street Improvements - All work is completed on this project except for punch list items, which were being finalized in June. Final costs are anticipated to be determined by August 1, with an assessment hearing to be scheduled in September. 9. Project #556, Begin Park Playground Equipment - All work was completed during the second quar'[er and final punch list items are being reviewed by staff. 10. Project #564, Emergency Vehicle Pre-emption Project - At the August 26, 1996, City Council meeting, the Council approved plans and specifications and authorized advertisement for bids. Bids were opened on September 18, and on September 23 the City Council awarded the bid to Killmer Electric Co. in the amount of $61,785.00. At the October 28 Council meeting, the Council approved a Resolution Approving a Cooperative Joint Pbwers Agreement for Emergency Vehicle Pre-emption at 62"d and West Broadway between New Hope and Brooklyn Park. At the January 13 Council meeting, the Council approved a bid from Rennix Corporation for 3M Opticom Emitters and Switches, and one installation session in the amount of $14,340.00. Public Works mechanics will install the emitters on City vehicles. At the May 27 City Council meeting, the Council approved a supplemental agreement (change order) with Kilmer Electric for some additional work in the amount of $1,100.00. The project was completed and operational at the end of June. 11. Project #567, 1997 Street Improvement Project - At the March 10 City Council meeting, the Feasibility Report for Areas 1 and 2 was presented to the Council, which include: Area 1) - 59"` and Hillsboro; Area 2) - near Hosterman School (56"~ and Zealand). At the same meeting, the Council authorized the City Engineer to prepare plans and specifications, and the public headng date was set for Apdl 14. The public hearing was held on April 14, and the Council directed the City Engineer to prepare final plans and specifications for Areas 1 and 2. At the April 28 Council meeting, the Council approved plans and specifications and ordered advertisement for bids. At the same meeting, the Council approved parking restrictions on the west side of Xylon Avenue from 56"' to Bass Lake Road and on the south side of 56"' Avenue from Boone to Xylon in order to maintain one ddving lane in each direction and parking on one side of each street. The bid opening was held on May 23. At the May 27 City Council meeting, the Council rejected the bid for Area 1 and awarded the bid for Area 2 to Ryan Contracting in the amount of $1,071,713.00. A neighborhood meeting was held with property owners on June 4 and a pre-construction meeting was conducted on June 10. Construction started at the end of June and is estimated to complete the street and utility phase (through base course) of the project in late August. The restoration work, including sod, will be completed in the fall. The bituminous wear course will be placed in the spring of 1998. A project bulletin was mailed to impacted property owners on June 19. 12. Project #568, Clean & Televise Storm Sewers in Northeast Corner of City- During the second quarter, the contractor completed televising and cleaning, including the Crystal Towers storm sewer. Staff will be reviewing the tapes provided by the contractor. 13. Project #579, 1997 Sidewalk Improvements - At the October 14 Council meeting, the City Engineer presented information to the Council on potehtiai ~re~$ for a 1997 sidewalk improvement project. The Council directed the City Engineer to prepare a Feasibility Report identifying the scope of the project, the cost, and the funding. The Feasibility Report was presented on February 24 and the Council authorized the City Engineer to pre~are plans and specifications. Approximately 5.230 lineal feet of sidewalk and 130 pedestrian ramps are in need of reconstruction. The 1997 project will include sidewalks on Winnetka and Boone Avenues. Funding for the sidewalks will be paid for with New Hope's Municipal State Aid Allocation and CDBG funds, which can be used for the replacement of existing sidewalks and ramps that meet ADA requirements. There are several improvements proposed by the Police entrance at City Hall that are included in this project, which would be funded through the City Hall Capital Improvement Program. At the April 28 City Council meeting, the Council approved plans and specifications and ordered advertisement for bids. Bids were opened on May 12. The City Council awarded the contract to West Star Curb in the amount of $248,710.10 at the May 27 Council meeting. A pre-construction meeting was conducted on June 6 and a project bulletin was mailed to impacted property owners on June 20. Construction began in June and should be completed by the end of September. 14. Project #581, Alternative Water System Analysis & Rate Study - The Joint Water Commission is investigating the cost for its own water supply/treatment vs. water purchased from Minneapolis. A rate study for the three communities is also being conducted. This study was ongoing during the second quarter and is scheduled to be completed in the fall. 15. Project #583, 1997 Backyard Drainage Project - At the December 9 City Council meeting, the City Engineer described the proposed project to Council and staff asked for direction from the Council. The Council directed the City Engineer to conduct preliminary work and hold neighborhood meetings with affected property owners. At the April 28 City Council meeting, the Council ordered preparation of plans and specifications for the project for priorities 1-4. The City Council approved plans and specifications and ordered advertisement for bids at the June 9 Council meeting. Bids will be considered at the July 28 Council meeting. 16. Project #585, Crystal 1997 Street Project - In September 1996, the Crystal City Council ordered improvements associated with Phase 3, South Central Street Reconstruction. One street in the project area is 32nd Avenue between Winnetka Avenue and Winpark Drive. The north one-half of the street is in the City of New Hope. At the March 24 City Council meeting, the Council set April 14 as the date of the public hearing. The public hearing was held on April 14 and Council approved the final plans and specifications. At the April 28 Council meeting, the Council approved a street resurfacing joint powers agreement between the cities of New Hope and Crystal. Staff met with the affected property owner (J.R. Jones), who has signed an assessment agreement for the project. The Council approved this agreement at the April 28 Council meeting. Construction is scheduled for later this summer/early fall. 17. Project #586, Construction of Path to Wetland at 49m & Flag Avenues - During the second quarter, Public Works staff and the City Engineer met with the DNR to review the final work. A plan is being prepared which will be sent to the DNR. The City Engineer is also investigating the design and cost to lower the overflow structure. 18. Project #590, Public Works Fueling Facility - At the January 13 City Council meeting, the Council directed the City Engineer to prepare a preliminary report that would evaluate the condition of the existing fueling facility and determine what improvements need to be made, or what other options are available, to comply with Federal requirements. During the second quarter, a draft report with costs was submitted to Public Works staff for review and the report will be presented to the Council in August. Staff and the City Engineer are also investigating purchasing fuel from other vendors. 19. Project #592, 1997 Crack Repair & Seal Coating - At the February 10 City Council meeting, the Council approved the specifications for the project and authorized advertisement of bids. Areas of the City included in the project include all streets between 36"' Avenue and Medicine Lake Road, except those maintained by Hennepin County or are designated on the Minnesota State Aid system. The project includes sealcoating the parking lot at Hidden Valley Park, and includes bid alternates for several additional City parking lots, depending on bids received. One additional item included in this project is the construction of a concrete valley gutter on 29"` Avenue, east of Aquila Avenue, which will redirect drainage away from a Iow point on 29"' Avenue. Funding for this program is available in the 1997 Streets Maintenance Operating Budget. At the March 10 City Council meeting, the Council awarded the bid to Allied Blacktop with a base bid of $157.071.00 plus three alternates in the amount of $31,941.00, for a total contract amount of $189,012.00. At the April 14 City Council meeting, the Council approved Change Order #1 with Allied Blacktop for cost difference in changing to an alkyd-based/lead free paint for parking lot striping. All work was completed by the end of June. 20. Project #593, Sunny Hollow Tennis Courts - At the May 12 City Council meeting, the Council approved plans and specifications and authorized advertisement for bids for tennis court reconstruction. Bids were opened on June 4. The Council awarded the contract to Bituminous Roadways in the amount of $64,334.15 at the June 9 Council meeting. A pre-construction meeting was held on June 30 and a project bulletin was mailed to the neighborhood on July 2. The project will include the removal of the existing paving for the three tennis courts as well as adjacent paving, and the installation of new paving for the courts and adjacent areas. New posts, nets, and chain-link fence will be installed. The area around the courts will be re-graded to meet the existing turf, and sod will be placed on disturbed areas. The existing light poles will be protected and reused. Construction on the project will begin the week of July 7 and will be completed by the end of August. 21. Project #594, Corner Park Playground Equipment Replacement - A meeting was conducted with the neighborhood to discuss the replacement of the playground equipment and to review equipment options on March 4. The City Engineer proceeded with the preparation of plans and specifications. At the June 9 City Council meeting, the Council tabled the approval of plans and specifications until the June 23 meeting to give staff additional time to determine the usage of the park equipment. At the June 23 City Council meeting, the Council approved plans and specifications and ordered advertisement for bids. 22. Project #595, 7528 42~d Avenue (Building Demolition) - During the first quarter, Phoenix Manufacturing vacated the City-owned building. The City had previously determined that after Phoenix vacated the building that the building would be demolished for future development. Northern Environmental sought quotes to abandon/seal four monitoring wells on the property, and at the March 24 Council meeting, the Council awarded the bid to Agassiz Environmental Systems in the amount of $500. Northern Environmental also sought quotes for environmental testing, such as asbestos sampling and light ballast identification, in the building. The Council awarded the bid to Angstrom Analytical, Inc. in the amount of $650. At the May 12 City Council meeting, the Council approved the plans and specifications and authorized advertisement for bids. The plan includes alternates for two different sized parking lots. Bids were opened on Ju'ne 5. At the June 9 City Council meeting, the Council awarded the contract for demolition to F.W. Gartner & Co. in the amount of $44,484.3~. Funding for demolition will be from the 42~d Avenue Redevelopment TIF funds. At the same meeting discussion ensued regarding a temporary parking lot to be utilized and paid for by the Sunshine Factory. The Council directed staff to prepare a lease agreement for parking lot construction and maintenance of the property. A project bulletin was mailed on June 23 to adjacent property owners. 23. Project #598, 7300 49~ Avenue - At the May 6 Planning Commission meeting, the Planning Commission approved a site and, building plan review for a proposed development at 7300 49~ Avenue. One of the conditions of approval was that the developer relocate the existing 30-inch storm sewer. The City Engineer recommended that the storm sewer be upgraded to a 36-inch pipe to improve water quality, with the developer and City to share in the cost. At the May 12 City Council meeting, the developer presented a petition to the Council for the City to reconstruct the public storm sewer and the developer be responsible for grading the ponding areas. The City Council accepted the petition at the May 12 Council meeting and ordered preparation of an engineering report. The proposed development also requires the vacation of two easements on the property. The City Engineer reviewed the vacation requests and recommended · approval provided that a new easement be dedicated to the City over the new storm sewer. The Council approved a resolution initiating vacation of the storm sewer, utility and drainage easements at the May 12 Council meeting. A public hearing date was scheduled for June 9 for the Council to consider the easement vacations. The Council approved the vacation of storm sewer and utility and drainage easements at the June 9 Council meeting. At the same .meeting, the Council rescinded adequacy of petition for public storm sewer, as the developer determined that he did not want, the storm sewer to be constructed as a pu~3tic project. Kirk McDonald Management Assistant/ Community Development Coordinator ENGINEERING CONSTRUCTION PROJECT,~ Second Quarter 1997 Report City Council Synopsis Progress took place on the foflowing major engineering projects during April, May and June: Northwood Lake Drainage - A great deal of Council and staff time was spent on this project during the second quarter. Tl~e City Engineer prepared the final plans and specifications for the project in April and May, which includes storm sewer, ponding and park improvements. The City Council approved the plans and specifications at the May 27 Council meeting and authorized advertisement for bids. Bids were opened on June 18 and considered by the Council at the June 23 Council meeting. At that meeting, the Council awarded the bid to construct the project to the Iow bidder, Ames Construction, in the amount of $1,023,249.60 (including five alternates). A petition was also presented to the Council at that meeting from residents who reside around the park. A project bulletin will be mailed to residents the first part of July and construction will start in mid-July. The City is proceeding with the project to reduce flooding experienced by properties abutting Northwood Lake, to meet required water quality standards, and to improve the athletic facilities in the park. 1997 Street Improvements - The 1997 Street Improvement Project got underway during the second quarter. A public hearing was held on April 14 and the Council directed the City Engineer to prepare final plans and specifications for Areas 1 and 2. At the second Council meeting in April, the Council approved the plans and authorized advertisement for bids. The bid opening was held on May 23 and the Council considered the bids on May 27. The Council awarded the bid for the streets in Area 2 to Ryan Contracting in the amount of $!,071,713.00. The Council rejected all bids for Area 2 streets and will conduct further study on this area. A neighborhood meeting was held with Area 2 residents on June 4 and a project bulletin was mailed to all impacted properties. Construct/on started at the end of June and is currently/n process. 1997 Sidewalk Improvements - The 1997 Sidewalk Improvements on Winnetka and Boone Avenues also got underway during the second quarter. The City Council approved the plans and specifications and authorized advertisement for bids at the April 28 Council meeting. Bids were opened for the project on May 12 and presented to the Council on May 27. The contract was awarded to West Star Curb in the amount of $248, 710. 10. A project bulletin was mailed to afl impacted property owners prior to the start of construction at the end of June. Approximately 5, 230 lineal feet of sidewalk and 130 pedestrian ramps will be reconstructed by the end of September. · Public Works Remodeling- Work continued on the Public Works Building Remodeling Project during the second quarter and construction will be substantially completed by the end of August. Other important engineering and/or construction projects that took place in the second quarter include: 1997 Backyard Drainage Improvements - The Council ordered preparation of plans and specifications/n April and in June the Council approved the plans and authorized advertisement for bids. Bids will be considered on July 28. 4Z"~/Xylon Intersection Improvements - Staff continued to coordinate with Hennepin County and Gethsemane Cemetery on this project during the second quarter. Plans were received from the Cemetery and a Feasibility Report will be completed in July. · Emergency Vehicle Pre-emption - The project was completed during the second quarter and is now operational. · 7528 4Z'd Avenue Demolition - A contract was awarded for this project and demolition is underway. Parks - A contract was awarded for the rebuilding of the Sunny Hollow Tennis Courts and the Council approved plans and specifications and ordered advertisement for bids to replace the playground equipment at Corner'Park. These projects, in addition to a number of other minor engineering items, kept the City Council and staff busy during the second quarter of 1997. Respectfully submitted, Kirk McDonald, Management Assistant/Community Development Coordinator ENGINEERING PROJECTS Second Quarter 1997 PROJ # PROJECT NAME :- .... APRIU~ '~' MAY , · ~ ~: :~UNE, · -486 36"~-~A~/'enue Street Improvements ...... 6/9 Council discusses improvements and authorizes proceeding 6118 Project bulletin mailed 498 Nodhwood Lake Drainage 5~27 Council approves plans & 6/18 Bid opening specifications and orders 6~23 Council awards contract to advedisement for bids Ames Construction wi5 alternates ($1,023,249.60) 6/23 Council accepts petition 536 Ice Arena Expansion 619 CoUncil accepts Change Order to contract 6~23 Council accepts bid division to contract and authorizes payment 542 Public Works Remodeling Construction started in March Construction in process 544 Storm Water Pond Improvements 5/12 Council approves pond area at 4400 Quebec & Golf Course planting project at 4400 Quebec with Hild & Associates 547 42"~/Xylon Avenue Intersection Staff continued to coordinate with Hennepin County, NSP and Gethsemane Cemetery Upgrade on this project during the second quarter. Feasibility Report to be completed in July. 550 Ballfield Reconstruction 6~23 Council approves final pay New Hope Elementary request for $4,250 551 -Louisiana Avenue & 31st Circle Final punch list items being completed Street Improvements 556 Begin Park Playground Equipment Work completed; punch list items being reviewed 564 Emergency Vehicle Pre-emption 5~27 Council approves EVP system in operation supPlemental agreement with Kilmer Electric PROJ # PROJECT NAME APRIL MAy JUNE 567 '97 Street Improvement Program 4/14 Public Hearing held and 5/23 Bid opening Council orders construction and 5/27 Council rejects bids for Area 1 6/4 Neighborhood meeting preparation of final plans & 5/27 Council awards contract for conducted specifications Area 2 to Ryan Contracting 6/10 Pre-construction meeting held 4/28 Council approves plans & ($1,071,71300) 6/19 Project bulletin mailed specifications and orders Construction starts advertisement for bids 4/28 Council approves parking restrictions on Xylon (56~h-Bass Lake Road) 4/28 Council approves parking restrictions on 56~h (Boone - Xylon) 568 Televise/Clean Storm Sewers Televising and cleaning completed 579 1997 Sidewalk Improvement 4/28 Council approves plans & 5/12 Bid opening 6/6 Pre-construction meeting held Project specifications and orders 5/27 Council awards contract to 6/20 Project bulletin mailed advertisement for bids West Star Curb 6/23 Construction starts 581 Alternative Water System Analysis Study was on-going during second quarter and Rate Study 583 1997 Backyard Drainage 4~28 Council orders preparation of Engineer meets with property 6/9 Council approves plans & Improvements plans & specifications owners specifications & orders advertisement for bids 585 Crystal 1997 Street Project 4/14 Public Hearing - Council 'Construction to take place in late' orders construction and approves summer/early fall final plans & specifications 4~28 Council approves street surfacing joint powers agreement 4~28 Council approves agreement of assessment and waiver of irregularity and appeal 586 -- Construction of Path to Wetland at Plan prepared and sent to DNR for review 49"'/Flag 590 Public Works Fueling Facility Draft report completed and submitted for review 592 1997 Crack Repair & Seal Coating 4/14 Council approves Change Work in progress Work completed Order #1 with Allied Blacktop PRO J# PROJECT NAME APRIL MAY " : ; ~ ' : JUNE 59~' ............ Sunny Hollow Tennis Courts - 5/12 Council approves plans & 6/4 Bid opening Rebuild specifications and authorizes call 6/9 Council awards contract to for bids Bituminous Roadways for $64,334.15 6/30 Pre-construction meeting held 7/2 Project bulletin mailed 594 Corner Park - Playground Neighborhood meeting held in 6/9 Council tabled approval of Equipment Replacement March plans & specifications and call for bids 6/23 Council approved plans & specifications and called for bids 595 7528 42'd Avenue Demolition 5/12 Council approves plans & 615 Bid opening specifications for demolition and 6/9 Council awards contract for authorizes advedisement for bids demo to F.W. Gartner & Co. and authorized staff to prepare agreement with Sunshine Factory for parking lot 6/23 Project bulletin mailed 598 7300 49th Ave Storm Sewer 5/12 Council approves resolution 6/9 Council approved vacation of Relocation declaring adequacy of petition and storm sewer & utility & drainage orders preparation of engineering easements report 6/9 Council rescinded adequacy of 5/12 Council approves resolution petition for public storm sewer initiating vacation of storm sewer and utility and drainage easements 5/27 Council discussed development and city participation Project No. 595 Bulletin #1 BUILDING DEMOLITION AT 7528 42N° AVENUE NORTH Overview The City is proceeding with the demolition of the City-owned industrial building at 7528 42~ Avenue North. The City acquired the building from Foremost, Inc. several years ago and leased the building to a company known as Phoenix Manufacturing until January of this year. The City acquired this property and is demolishing the building because the long-term goal of the City ~s to rezone this property from industrial to commercial and to redevelop the site in the future. The City has no immediate plans to redevelop the Site and is simply clearing the site at this time. The project will include demolishing and removing the existing building and its materials. Approximately 90 lineal feet of curb along Quebec Avenue will be removed and replaced. Due to the fact that there are no immediate plans to redevelop the site, the demolition bids included several alternates for temporary parking lot construction. The Sunshine Factory approached the City regarding the potential installation of a temporary parking lot on the site to accommodate overflow parking. The City has reached an agreement with the Sunshine Factory to construct a temporary parking lot on the site. The Sunshine Factory will assume all costs for the construction and maintenance of the temporary parking tot to be located on the City property. Once the building is demolished, construction of the temporary parking lot w~il proceed. Project Schedule The bid to demolish the building and construct the temporary parking lot was awarded to F.W. Gartner Company, Iow bidder. The demolition of the building will be financed with 42"~ Avenue Tax Increment Financing funds. Demolition of the building will begin on or around Wednesday, June 25, and it is estimated that it will take 10-12 days to knock the building down and haul away the debris. All utilities will be disconnected prior to the demolition. The parking lot construction will begin after the demolition is completed and the entire project should be completed by July 31. Construction Hours Per City ordinance, the contractor can complete construction activities between the hours of 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. on weekends. All work, including mobilization of equipment, will take place during these time periods. LandscaDin¢l After the demolition is completed and the parking lot constructed, the City will be developing a landscaping plan for the site and seeking bids for the landscaping. The landscaping of the property will be completed this fall. 6/23/97 Page 2 (Building Demolition) Contact Persons If you have questions or concerns during the project, please direct your calls to the following persons: Jerry Pertzsch, City Engineer's Representative Vince Vander Top, Project Inspector 604-4780 604-4790 or 533-4823 ext. 15 If you desire to speak with someone with the City of New Hope, please contact Kirk McDonald, Management Assistant/Community Development Coordinator, at 531-5119. City of New Hope 4401 Xylon Avenue North New Hope, MN 55428 Project No. 567 Bulletin #1 1997 INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT AREA 2 Overview The City of New Hope is proceeding with the Area 2 street/utility improvements in order to address deficiencies in the street, storm sewer, and sanitary sewer systems. The Area 2 project will include installation of new sanitary sewer along 56® Avenue from Zealand Avenue to Boone Avenue and north on Boone Avenue past the Continental Village Apartments. Storm sewer improvements will occur along 56th Avenue between Boone Avenue and Xylon Avenue, on Xylon Avenue between Bass Lake Road and 58t~ Avenue, on Zealand Avenue between 55t~ and 56t" Avenues, and along 55t" Avenue from the cul-de-sac at Northridge Care Center to Winnetka Avenue. Xylon Avenue, 55TM Avenue, 56t" Avenue, and Zealand Avenue (55th to 56t~) will be totally reconstructed with new curb and gutter as well as paving. Portions of these streets will be widened two feet in areas to provide a designated parking lane and improve the traffic flow and safety. Xylon Avenue at Bass Lake Road and 55t* Avenue at Winnetka will be reconstructed so as to provide left turn lanes. Zealand Avenue between Bass Lake Road and 56t~ Avenue and from 55th Avenue to 54~" Avenue will be milled and overlayed with 1-1/2" of bituminous wear course. The southerly block will be widened to provide safer on-street parking on the west side. In addition to the street and utility work being conducted as part of this City project. Minnegasco will be installing a new gas main through the project area along 55~" Avenue, Zealand Avenue. 56t" Avenue, and along Boone Avenue. This work is being done at the same time, but is independent of the infrastructure project. Project Schedule The New Hope City Council awarded the contract for Area 2 Infrastructure Improvements to Ryan Contracting Incorporated in the amount of $1.07 million at the May 27 Council meeting. A preconstruction meeting was conducted on June 10 with all appropriate utility companies and construction personnel. The contractor plans to start construction on the project the week of June 23 and is estimated to complete the street and utility phase (through base course) of the project in late August. The restoration work, including sod, will be completed in the fall. The bituminous wear course will be placed in the spring of 1998. Additional project bulletins will be mailed updating you on the progress of the project. 6/19/97 Page 2 (1997 Infrastructure Improvement Project) Access While short term street closures may occur, access to all homes and apartment properties, as well as school parking lots, will be restored at the end of each work day. If for some reason access cannot be restored at the end of the work day, the Public Works Department will be coordinating with the New Hope Police Department to allow for on-street parking in the area for that night, tf you would like a permit that allows you to park on the street for extended periods. they are available from the New Hope Police Department for one dollar per vehicle per week. During the work day it may be necessary to park on streets not impacted by the construction. Construction Hours Standard construction hours will be between the hours of 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday. All work, including mobilization of equipment, will take place during these time periods. Contact Persons If you have questions or concerns during the Infrastructure Improvement Project, please direct your calls to the engineer representatives: Vince Vander Top, Project Inspector: Mark Hanson, City Engineer: 604-4790 or 533-4823 ext. 15 604-4838 if you desire to speak with someone with the City of New Hope, please contact Tom Schuster. Contract Manager, 533-4823 ext. 13. City of New Hope 4401 Xylon Avenue North New Hope, MN 55428 Project No 57g Bulletin ~1 1997 SIDEWALK IMPROVEMENT PROJECT Overview The City of New Hope ~s proceeding with the Sidewalk Improvement Project ~n order to ccm0ly w~th ADA (Americans w~th Disabilities Act) standards. The Sidewalk Improvement Project will provide for reconstruction of approximately 7 000 lir'eal feet of existing sidewalk and 80 concrete pedestrian ramps along Boone Avenue and Winnetka Avenue. In addition to the improvements to existing facilities located within Winnetka Avenue and Boone Avenue, new sidewalks will be constructed along those sections of Winnetka Avenue where they do not already exist. This improvement will tie together existing concrete walks on :he north and south ends to complete the trail system on Winnetka Avenue. Portions of the sidewalk adjacent to or near your property have been identified as needing repair. The damaged sidewalk panels wilt be removed and new panels will be constructed ~n there place. During the time the sidewalk is under repair, it will be closed to pedestrians. However, the project is scheduled so that the reconstruction will occur as soon as possible after the damaged sidewalk is removed, in many cases the same day. While the replacement of the removed sidewalk will occur quickly, the new concrete must be allowed the proper t~me to cure Therefore. the sidewalk may be closed from seven (7) to ten (10) days. After the new concrete has cured for several days. the area next to the reconstructed sidewaik wilt be filled with black dirt. Sod will be laid in these areas, but not until fall when the sod has the best chance for survival. You will be asked to keep the restored areas watered. Funding for this project is coming from Municipal State Aid Funds and Community Development Block Grant Funds. Therefore, there will be no assessment for this project to properties in the project area. The reconstruction of sidewalks along other streets, including streets running east-west. currently being planned for a future date. Project Schedule The New Hope City Council awarded the contract for the Sidewalk Improvement Project to West Star Curb and Concrete 'in the amount of $249,000 at the May 27 Council meeting. A preconstruction meeting was conducted on June 6 with all appropriate utility companies and construction personnel. The contractor plans to start construction on the project the week of June 23 and is estimated to complete the project by the end of September. Additional project bulletins will be mailed updating you on the progress of the project. 6/20/97 Page 2 (1997 Sidewalk Improvement Project) Access In some cases the repaired sidewalk may cross a driveway. In this situation, it is the contractor's intention to install the new sections of sidewalk on one side of the driveway at a time allowing residents access to their garage or parking area. If your driveway is impacted by the sidewalk repair, you may wish to contact the New Hope Police Department to obtain an on- street parking permit. These permits are available for one dollar per vehicle per week. Construction Hours Standard construction hours will be between the hours of 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday. All work, including mobilization of equipment, will take place during these time periods. Contact Persons If you have questions or concerns during the infrastructure improvement project, please direct your calls to the engineer representatives: Vince Vander Top, Project Inspector: Mark Hanson, City Engineer: 604-4790 or 533-4823 ext. 15 604-4838 If you desire to speak with someone with the City of New Hope, please contact Tom Schuster. Contract Manager, 533-4823 ext. 13. City of New Hope 4401 Xylon Avenue North New Hope, MN 55428 PROJECT NO. 593 BULLETIN #1 1997 TENNIS COURT IMPROVEMENTS SUNNY HOLLOW SCHOOL PARK Overview The City of New Hope is proceeding with the reconstruction of tennis courts at Sunny Hollow Park. The project will include the removal of the existing paving for the three tennis courts as welt as adjacent paving, and the installation of new paving for the courts and adjacent areas. New posts, nets, and chain link fence will be installed. The area around the courts will be re-graded to meet the existing tud, and sod will be placed on disturbed areas. The existing light poles will be protected and reused. Project Schedule The New Hope City Council awarded the contract for the Sunny Hollow Tennis Court Improvement Project in the amount of $64,334.15 to Bituminous Roadways Inc. at the June 9 Council Meeting. A preconstruction meeting was conducted on June 30 with all appropriate personnel. The contractor plans to start construction on the project the week of July 7, 1997. The project is estimated to be completed by the end of August. Construction Hours As the City ordinance directs, standard construction hours will be between the hours of 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. on weekends. All work, including mobilization of equipment, will take place during these time periods only. Contact Persons If you have questions or concerns during the improvement project, please direct your calls to the City's engineering representatives: Joe Illetschko, Project Inspector: Randy Neprash, Project Engineer: 604-4800 604-4703 If you wish to speak to a City staff person, please contact Tom Schuster, Contract Manager, 533-4823 ext. 13. City of New Hope 4401 Xylon Avenue North New Hope, MN 55428 July 1, 1997 Project No. 498 Bulletin #1 NORTHWOOD LAKE STORM SEWER, PONDING, AND PARK IMPROVEMENTS Overview The City of New Hope is proceeding with the Northwood Lake Storm Sewer, Ponding, and Park Improvement Project in order to reduce the flooding experienced by properties abutting Northwood Lake, to meet required water quality improvement obligations, and to improve the athletic facilities within the park. The Northwood Lake Storm Sewer, Ponding, and Park Improvement Project will include relocating the stream through the park, creating three storm water ponds, reconstructing the Northwood Lake outlet structure and culvert, re-grading two softball fields, constructing new bituminous pedestrian trails, installing two new bridges, installing storm sewer piping, and landscaping all areas disturbed by the construction. Miscellaneous items such as fencing, drain tile, benches, sanitary sewer, water main and rip-rap are also included. The New Hope City Council awarded the contract for the Northwood Lake Storm Water, Ponding, and Park Improvement Project to Ames Construction, Inc. in the amount of $1.02 million at the June 23r~ Council Meeting. A pre-construction meeting was conducted on July 9th with all appropriate utility companies and construction personnel. Project Schedule The contractor plans to start construction on the project the week of July 14th. The majority of work during July will take place in Boone Avenue and in the park area west of Boone Avenue. The excavation of Pond 1 and the related storm sewer work will be completed and work on the outlet structure, including the driving of pilings and the installation of a temporary bypass will be initiated. Water flow from Northwood Lake under Boone Avenue will be maintained at all times. It is anticipated that the majority of work west of Boone Avenue will be completed by the first part of August and the contractor will then proceed with work in the park on the east side of Boone Avenue after the completion of the scheduled softball season. Additional project bulletins will be mailed updating you on the. progress of the project. Construction of the project will be substantially completed by mid-October, with final completion in the Spring of 1998. Access Boone Avenue will not be closed during the construction, however traffic will be diverted first to the east lane arid later to the west lane as the new box culvert is installed at the lake outlet and underneath Boone Avenue. During the project, the traffic lanes on Boone Avenue will be narrowed which may lead to some congestion of the area. In spite of the fact that the road will remain open, residents may find it more convenient to use alternate routes through the area. Park Closed All areas of the park within the construction area, as identified on .the attached map, will be closed during~the duration of the project. A fence and appropriate signage will be installed around the project site stating that the park is closed. Signage will also be placed at 36~" and Winnetka. On the west side of' Boone Avenue, this will include the basketball court and some of the trails. The entire portion of the park east of Boone Avenue will be closed during construction, including the parking lot. The closure east of Boone Avenue is expected to take effect around August 1% At that time no facilities east of Boone Avenue will be available for use. 7/tt/97 Construction Hours Standard construction hours will be between the hours of 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday. Alt work, including mobilization of equipment, will take place during these time periods. No work wdl take t~tace on Sundays or holidays. Contact Persons If you have questions or concerns during the infrastructure improvement project, please direct your calls to the engineer representatives: Vince Vander Top, Project Inspector: Mark Hanson, City Engineer: 604-4790 or 533-4823 ext. 15 604-4838 If you desire to speak with someone with the City of New Hope, please contact Tom Schuster, Contract Manager, 533-4823 ext. 13. The City appreciates the cooperation of all residents during this project. City of New Hope 4401 Xylon Avenue North New Hope, MN 55428 Phone: 531-5100 ~d. II I':nlerl:tinment --Cnn oily m:~ke i.'Ol.'ielors choo,~e I)el~veen liquor :md enlerl;6nmenl licenses? ,~'~6,4 l,lOd. ,S'9(~A 1,106. ami ,SU6A 14q7 (JoJ(Jl~clg, V;ir~aJolla. alld 'J'lldor each opcr;llcd adllJl-clllcl'laJlllllelll c~lal~lishmcnls in Ihe cil~ of ~arJclla, cxi~Icd t'o~ v;,~hl~ Icn~lhs ot'lhne, lhcy all had cnl~rhlinmcnl and liquor licenses J'or Ill~ V~al-S IgU.~, log4, and In ~a~iclla. Im~inesses had Io rc~ppl~ each year for n~w liquor alJd ~nlerhlJnnlcnl licenses, whirl1 expired on lhe la~l da~ of lhe ~ear. ;inlendmcnl ~;Ivc lhe ~lalq Ihe l'iphl Io rqpl~lalc alcoholic hcvcra~cs alld rchlled aclivilic~, a~ ;mlhorizcd I~y Ihe ~1~1 Amcndmcnl, lhe law Ihal ?cpealed Prohil~ilhm and empowered shltes 1o rc~h'icl ~llcohol usc. hi addilion, Iht amcndmcnl ddc~alcd aulhorily Io counlJcs alld municipalili~s "for Ihe purpose oJ' re~ulalJnp, r~slriclin~, or prohihilin~ Ih~ exhihilion of m~(lil~, parlial nndil~. or dcpiclion~ o/nudilv in conncclion wilh Iht sale or consumption of alcoholic In .hlnll;ir~ JggS, Iht ~ariella Cilv ('ouncil, aclJll~ on 111~ 1094 Georgia alllendnl('lll, pas~cd an am~lldnlelll lo ils ordJll~lllCO, shllJll~ JJ(juor licenses WOllJd nol I~c issued Io c~lal~lJshmcnls wilh adnll cnlcrlahlnlCnl licd~scs. Befi~rc aplmwin~ Iht amcndmcnl, lilt cil~ council c~amincd Ih~ cfi'cots alc.hol-~ervin~, adlfll-enlerhlinmcnl qslahlJsllmcnls had on lhe comlllUnJly, includin~ d~crcascd properly v;ihlcs, comnlunil~ "hli~hl," hi~hcr crime talcs Jn surroundin~ areas, and added slrain on lJl~ criminal justice s~SlClll. 'l~l Illak~ il~ decision, linc council rdied on Ic~lhl~OllV of cilizcns, fl~c police dcparlmenl, and sludics J'ronl olhcr cilics rcporlin~ similar problems, l'h~ rc~ulling anlm~dmcnl's preamble slalcd lhe new htw re~utlcd from concerns aboul Illc cfl'~cl~ on Iht cil~, and shnilar prohlcm';, c~pc~k'm:cd hv olher nmnicipalilics. A~ Ibc oily COmlcJl dra[Icd il. file ll~W adull~cnlcrlaimnenl amcndmcnl made e~l;ll~lJ~Jllll('lll~ cIl~o~c hdwecn ~ellJll~ a JitjllOt JJC~llS~ or an adJlJl cnleflaJllnlenJ license, l~l;~l~li~hmenl~ Ih;il ;dreadv had holh licenses for 1005 w~rc nol suhjecl IJlc alllt'lldt'd ~ ;I IC~HII ot IIR' I1C~ J;IW. lhc Ihrcc owners didn'l ~el licenses for I006. 'J'Ilcv each ~llL'd Ihv cJlv. Jl~ council members, alld JJlc nlayor, askJn~ IJl~ COllrl Io dccl;irc JJlc ~l-dJll;incc iii1COllslJhllJonaJ alld lo award mondar~ dallla~C~. In addilhm, Tudor a~kcd Iht courl 1o order Iht cil~ Io issue Ihe cnlerlainn~cnl and liquor licen~c~. In I)eccml~cr 10~5, Iht cil~ and Iht hllsJllL'sscs a~l'~Cd lhal Iht IJlrc~' e~lahlJ~hmcnls Collhl conlinue pr.vi(lin~ alcohol and adl~ll Clllel hlJlnllcnl unliJ Iht COllll~ ~clllcd Iht Thc courl con~oJJdaled Iht lhrec ca~cs and ~ranled Ibc oily jud~menl wilhoul a Irial. II found Ihc Ic~i~lalhm wa~ COlllCllJ ncuh'ai. I;or lepJ~lalJon on adull ClllCl'hlh1111CIll hi ho CIHI~J(JcIo~J cl~fllcoJ .hmo 25, 1007 l'agc 3 cflccl,¢ of Iht cnlcrlainmcnl ;Ind nol dircclly allack Ibc aclivilv ilscll'. Iht lhrcc .wncrs appealed, askin~ Ibc courl lo declare Iht ordinance uncon~lilulional. They argued Ihc ordinance deprived Ihcm of lhdr ri~lll~ 1o frcc xpccch and of lhcir vc~lcd righls in having licenses renewed. Tudor claimcd Iht amcndmcnl was nol conlenl ncnlral, arguing Iht nlayor and several council recruiters XValllCd 1o eliminate nndc dancing in Marietta, ralher Ihan .jusl curhlil il~ secondary cf feels. I)Et'ISION: A~rmed. The lhrcc owners were nol enlillcd to renewed licenses, and lhe nrdinancc didn'l violalc lhcir conslilulional righls. Thc amcndmenl was conlcnl nculral, l}cfore enacting an ordinance to address an aclivily's secondary cf feels, a legislative body had Io consider specific evidence concerning those cf feels. Thc oily council did lhal, examining slndies done in olher cities ami hearing leslimony from citizens and lhe police. Based o, lhese el'fl~rls, lhe council demonslraled ils main purpose was to conllml Ihe secondary cf feels of adnll enlerlainmcnl eslablishmenls, not eliminale lhe husinesses enlirely. As for Ihe conslilulionalily issne, Ihe lhree owners couldn'l prove Illc oily abused ils police power in amending Ille ordinance. The cily was Irying lo promole an imporlanl government inleresl ~ reducing crime and improving lhc qnalily of life--- lhal was complelely unrelalcd lo lhe suppression of speech. The oily wasn'l trying 1o quash the owners' righl lo free speech ~ il merely wanled lo address lhe secondary cf feels lhal resulled flora lhe combination of alcohol and adull enlerlainment. Finally, the owners did have a ~esled righl in their licenses. Once a license was granled, it couldn't be rewaked unless in extreme, usnally criminal, circumstances, ltowever, lhe owners didn'l have a vesled righl in the renewal of the licenses. The owners had 1o apply each year for renewal, so there was no guarantee they would gel lhe licenses from year Io year. Rejection of renewal was a risk lhe owners fi~ced annually: Ihey couldn'l claim they had a vesled righl in somelhing Ihal wasn'l guaranleed. Variance -- ltousinff authority says it can't bnild on property without variances IhmsinR Authority qf tlu' ('it)' (![,¥t. ('harh',~' ~: 'The Board of Adjustment of the ('ity of St. Charh',~'. q41 S. 1E2d 725 (Missouri) 1997 Thc SI. Charles, Mo., housing aulhorily owned a vacanl corner IoI lhal was Iocalcd in a two-family residential dislricl. Thc housing anlllorily wnnted lo bnild a duplex on the properly, but thc properly did nol nlcel ordinance requiremenls. Because of the lot's small size, Iht housing anlhorily soughl variances from the cily's bonrd of adjustmenl. Thc hotming anlhorily rcqncslcd four nonusc variances. I1 rcqueslcd a Iof size variance for Iht 7,500-square-fool 1oI I~ecausc lhe ordinance rcquired a minimm, o' ' ' II rcquc~lcd a xvitllh variance because Iht Page 4 -Junc 25, 1997 was only 50 feet wide -- 25 feet short of the width requirement. Thc final two requests iuvolved sclback requiremenls. Comer lois were snpposed lo have minimum sell*acks of 25 feet on both sides; the housing authorily requested thai Ihe minimum selback be reduced to 10 feet on each side. Nonuse variances allowed developers to deviate from restrictions relating to permitled uses, while use variance allowed developers lo use land in a way not already permilted by the ordinance. As a result, the requirement for getting a nonuse variance was less slringenl, lnslead of demonstraling the "unnecessary hardship" required for a use variance, the applicant for a nonuse variance had to prove only a "practical difficulty" ~ that the property could not sustain a permitted use without violating ordinance restriclions. Other lots in Ihe dislricl had sizes, widths, and setbacks smaller Ihan lhe minimum measuremenls the ordinance required. The board held two public bearings, duringwhich supporters and opponents of the proposed plan testified. The city developmenl director recommended granling lhe variances, saying the housing aulhority's application met all the criteria fi~r approval. The city development office staff submitted lwo rcporls supporting Ihe variances' approval, one of which stated that no buildings conld be built wifhoul thc setback variances. Apparenlly. no objecfions wcre raised regarding fhe leslimony or lhe reports. Thc board w~Icd unanimously to deny all the housing aulhorily's requests. Thc bonsing authority appealed lo lhe trial court. The board argued the housing authority didn't preseul enough evidence to convince il to grant the variances. Tbc lcstimony of Ibc city development direclor and thc staff rcp.rls, Ihe board argued, were hearsay and could not be considered evidence. The board also argued (he housing aulhority couldn't justify thc variances, because il failed to demonslrale a "praclical difficnlty." The court reversed Ihe decision and ordered (he board to grant lhe variances. The b-ard appealed. llECISION: A~rmed. 'l'bc bo;l~tl vi~d:lle(I it~ discretion when il denied Ibc housing authorily's v~Ir{aI1cc lb he,tin wilh. Ibc board ~lmuldn'l bave discounled lhc evidence prescnled by Ihe oily tick el.pm(hi dircclor and Ibc cily developmenl office slaff. In ~cncral, a board c-uhl ,,,I cmmidcr "hearsay" evidence Io be compelenl and snbslantia[ evidence, ttnlc.g~ no ob. jo(lion was made 1o ils admission. In lhi~ ca~c, no one .b.jcclcd Io Ih( Icxlim.nv or tl~c lwo reporl~. This evidence addressed Ibc issue of whclllcr Iht housing aulhorily mol Ibc necessary crilcria. ~o Ih( board should havc considered il. Thc housing anllmrily proved more lhan a praclical tlifficully exislcd wilboul lhe variances. Thc Iol wa~ much smaller, bolb in terms of square fecl and widlh, Iban Iht .rtlinancc allowed. Dcnyin~ Iht variance~ would rc~ull n~l only in practical difficullv for Ibc Imu~ing aulhorily, but i't would, as Ibc evidcuce ~n~gc~lcd, make building any $1ruclurc on Ibc IoI impossible. And since Z.B. June 25, 19t)7 -- Page 5 lots in lite area (lid not c(mfl~rm to the minimum requiremenls, fhe housing authority's w~riances wot, Id not disrupt the neighborhood's plan. se(, also: Hacienda Enterprises No. 2, inc. v. Smarr. 841 S. W. 2d 811 (1902). Matthew v. Smith 707 S. W. 2d 413 (1986). Constitutional Claim -- Is city's exclusion of multiple-family dwellings nnconstitutional? Counto, walk Condominiums Inc. v. City of Orchard Lake Village, 561 N. W. 2d 40.5 (Michigan) 1997 Countrywalk Condominiums Inc. owned a 20-acre parcel of land in Orchard Lake Village, Mich. The city zoned the land as single-family residential. The only permilled uses in the city were single-family residential, professional office, and local business. The cily had one multiple-family dwelling as a nonconforming use. Counlrywalk sued the city. It claimed the exclusion of multiple-family dwellings from the city zoning plan violaled its constitutional rights. The cily asked lhe court for judgmenl withoul a trial. Exchlding multiple- family dwellings from the zoning plan, the cily argued, was necessary to addrcss traffic and safety concerns. The city mainlained il was a small residential communily with overburdened roads. To snpport ils argument, it poinled to a lwo-lane road with several twists and lures. While the road had a 24-hour capacily of 11,350 vehicles, a traffic slndy revealed a daily average of 20,200 vehicles traveled on it. The cily argued adding mulliple-fi~mily dwellings would worsen the already congesled traffic system and con, promise traffic safely. The court granted lite city judgment wilhout a Irial. Countrywalk appealed. DECISION: A~rmed. Excluding multiple-family dwellings didn'l violale Countrywalk's constilutional rights. Even though multiple-fitmily dwellings were legitimate uses of land, and ordinances Ihat excluded them carry a strong mark of unlawfld discrimination, Ibc city showed ils zoning phm had a real and substantial relalionship lo lhe public heallh amt safely. Because (',umrywalk did,'t provide evidence m refute the cily's pr(mi', il couldn'l show tile zoning platt violaled ils conslilutional rigbls. ,VCC ats'o: ()Ih/wi/ ('o I't/rm~ Dfc. I~ l'olkton Township, 345 N. tEZd 672 Kropf ~: Stcrli.,~ lh'i,~.,ht,~, 2 I5 N. IE2d 179 (I074). ('onslili, tionul ('laim -- Owner claims statute discriminales against property owners in heavily populaled areas ( 'itv o1' Mottnhtin I?n~,,k ~: (;n'cn ~dh'v I'artm'rs. 600 S'o.2d 359 (,41tlhamtt) lq07 (;teen Valley l'arlncrs owned prop(ely in a M(~unlain Brook. Ala., district 7on(ti t'~r siueh' f;mfilv re'si(Ich(cs. M(mnlain Brook was located in .Icfferson June 25, 1997 -- Page 5 tots in the area did not conform to the minimum requirements, the housing authority's variances would not disrupt the neighborhood's plan. see also: Hacienda Enterprises No. 2, Inc. v. Smarr, 841 S. W. 2d 811 (1992). Matthew v. Smith 707 S. W. 2d 413 ~1986). Constitutional Claim t Is city's exclusion of multiple-family dwellings unconstitutional? Count~walk Condominiums [nc. v. City of Orchard Lake Village, 561 N. W. 2d 405 (Michigan) 1997 Countrywalk Condominiums Inc. owned a 20-acre parcel of land in Orchard Lake Village, Mich. The city zoned the land as single-family residential. The only permitted uses in the city were single-family residential, professional office, and local business. The city had one multiple-family dwelling as a nonconforming use. Countrywalk sued the city. It claimed the exclusion of multiple-family dwellings from the city zoning plan violated its constitutional rights. The city asked the court for judgment without a trial. Excluding multiple- family dwellings from the zoning plan, the city argued, was necessary to address traffic and safety concerns. The city maintained it was a small residential community with overburdened roads. To support its argument, it pointed to a two-lane road with several twists and tums. While the road had a 24-hour capacity of 11,350 vehicles, a traffic study revealed a daily average of 20,200 vehicles traveled on it. The city argued adding multiple-family dwellings would worsen the already congested traffic system and compromise traffic safety. The court granted the city judgment without a trial. Countrywalk appealed. DECISION: ,Affirmed. Excluding multiple-family dwellings didn't violate Countrywalk's constitutional rights. Even though multiple-family dwellings were legitimate uses of land. and ordinances that excluded them carry a strong mark of unlawful discrimination. the city showed its zoning plan had a real and substantial relationship to the public health and safety. Because Countrywalk didn't provide evidence to refute the city's proof, it couldn't show the zoning plan violated its constitutional rights. see also: Ottawa Co. Farms Inc. v. Polkton Township, 345 N.~;2d 672 ~1983). Kropf v. Sterling Heights, 215 N. W. 2d 179 (1974). Constitutional Claim m Owner claims statute discriminates against property owners'in heavily populated areas City of Mountain Brook v. Green Valley Partners, 690 So. 2d 359 (Alabama) 1997 Green Valley Partners owned property in a Mountain Brook, Ala., district zoned for single-family residences. Mountain Brook was located in Jefferson JUNE 1997 AMERICAN PLANNING ASSOCIATION F/,e Cerr:w; ,4uw .5'quare. in C'err~tos, Cali/brnia. used creative landscaping to [end an aesthetic quali~, w its 85-acre sire. Acres of Automobiles ~v C-hri:'ropher t~urke Bs bigger really better? Ptanners increasingly find themselves askin~ this question in dealing with new developments. As the trend o~: giantism z~ olvcs, megadevetopments take on. new forms, some o(wbich ~ere covered last year in ZoningNews (see "Hog-Tied by Feediors. ' October: '~Zoning and Big Box Reiigion," November: and "Big Box Meets Big Screen," December/. The fastest-growing new ~brm of megadevelopment is automobile dealerships. Like other big box developments, ~hev require large plots or- land. According ro the zoning ordinances surveyed, most auto lots are between five and 20 acres, with eight acres the average. Unlike most other big box retailers, however, ~h~ dealerships raise concerns over waste disposal (oil, gas, tires), noise from servicing cars, and road access. Planners must address most o(rhese issues when dealing with any auto dealer. However, with the recent introduction of auto superstores such as CarMax, Drivers Mart Worldwide. CarChoice, and AuroNation, planners are receiving proposals for sites averaging four times the size of the normal auto dealership. A Zoning ~Vews su~'ey of zoning ordinances in the Planning Advisory Service libraD, showed that only about 20 percent b_ad a specific definition for automotive dealers. Most codes focus on the activities associated with dealerships, such as trade-ins and storage of used and new automobiles, towing and wrecking services, body' shop and maintenance, and sales and leasing. Tl~is issue of Zoning ,Vews discusses the differences bet~veen auto superstores and auto malls, the phenomenal growth of used auto superstores, and the zoning implications of the proliferation o( these businesses. What Is an Auto Mall? There is currently no official definition of an auto malt. Based on the size o£an average auto dealer franchise, however, an auto mall would tend to be either a dealership that incorporates a vast selection of automobiles, or a combination of multiple franchises sharing one parcel of land. These businesses may sell either new or used autos, both foreign and domestic models. The typical auto dealership in a suburban area occupies from five to 20 acres of land depending, among other rhings, on the local zoning regulations. [n contrast, auto malls may cover 30 acres consisting of several small dealerships using five ro seven acres each, and can be as large as 90 acres with over 12 individual dealers. For example, Cerritos, CAifornia, is home to 13 dealerships, each bet~veen three and 10 acres in size, occupying over 82 acres of land. There are plans to continue expanding. Because they require ~o much !and. auto dealerships are usuallv not permitted in central business districts and highly developed commerciA areas, in most cases, the average seven- acre dealership will be located in a suburb or outlying urban area because the municipalities involved may offer tax incentives, better street access, and locations visible from major arterial roads. However. as mburbia becomes more populated and new automotive sales continue to decline, communities are less likely to offer incentives to attract large new dealerships. The result is that it becomes more cosdv for prospective auto ~'ranchisers to set up shop. These rising costs are the primary, influence behind the multidealer sites that have become known as auto mails. Auto dealers are finding it increasingly feasible to share lots with other dealers as a means of reducing overhead costs for all the participating businesses. Though multifranchised partnerships are veL-y common in the automotive business, the phenomenon has not gone unscathed in the court of public opinion. A common complaint that residents express regarding auto malls concerns the additional traffic generated on arterial roads and adjoining residential streets. Still, auto malls have not stirred the level of controversy that surrounds the newer trend of auto superstores. Used Car Superstores Used car superstores constitute a ne~v development in the auto business, appearing only within the last five years. The players include emerging chains such as CarMax (launched by Circuit Ckw. [nc.), Drivers Mart Worldwide, and AutoNation USA and CarChoice iboth started by Republic Industries, whose chief executive officer is Blockbuster Video founder Wayne Huizenga). Circuit Ci,ry developed its first CarMax superstore in Richmond, Virginia, in 1993. It occupies 22 acres in an area previously zoned for business and office developments. AutoNadon and CarChoice followed soon al:ter with superstores in Dallas and Detroit. These businesses primarily sell used domestic and foreign automobiles that are no more than five years old and have fewer than 70,000 miles on the odometer. They are aiming to take over a major portion of the 5200 billion-per-year used car market in the U.S. They offer innovative approaches to selling cars, such as allowing the customer to shop "haggle free" and providing various purchase incentives. For example, CarMax backs every vehicle it sells u, ith a five-day or 250-mile money- back guarantee, and it claims to price every, car "an average of 5500 to 51,200 below book value." Aside from selling cars, these superstores continue the trend associated with big box development by providing a one-stop servicing center. 5uperstores such as AutoNation have already revealed plans to finance, sell, rent, lease, and repair cars at each location. Though these developments sound like excellent methods for generating extra tax dollars for municipalities, they average between 28 and 33 acres, consuming a good deal of land for the revenues they gener-. ate. As with other megadevelopments, these superstores have tended to locate along highways and major thoroughfares on the outskirts of urban areas. Chris Burke is a research associate with APA in Chicago. Recently, however, many suburban municipalities have become apprehensive about these developments because o( environmental and street access concerns. For example. Gurn=e. Illinois, a small village near the Wisconsin border, recendv debated whether it should allow AutoNadon to build a dealership to accommodate 1,200 cars. AutoNarion wants to build on a wertands area in return for creating new environmentallv sensitive land in a nearby village along the Des Plaines River. Gurnee covers the new tax revenue [ess than ocher communities might because it already has an amusement theme park, Six Flags Great America, and an outlet shopping mall, Gurnee Mills, which contains more than 200 retail stores and 14 movie screens. In most cases, the average seven-acre dealership will be located in a suburb or outlying urban area because the municipalities involved may offer tax incentives, better street access, and locations visible from major arterial roads. Tinlev Park, Illinois, a southwest suburb of Chicago, recen.dy received ' proposals from CarMax and a smaller used car dealer. Value Stop. AutoNadon has also expressed interest in building a dealership but has not submitted a Grmat site plan. CarMax has requested zoning approval for approximately 29 acres of unincorporated land in neighboring Will County that Tinlev Park has annexed order to facilitate CarMax development, in the meantime, CarMax has atreadv received preliminary, site plan approval, according to David Samuelson, planning technician in the Tinlev Park community development department. Value Stop has requested zoning approval for only 12.28 acres of land and also has received preliminary site plan approval. Value Stop has been delayed, however, by stormwater detention problems on its site. AutoNarion has not submitted a site plan, bur because superstores average over 20 acres, one could assume that its approval would make this village of 38,000 people home to more than 2,000 used cars for sale. Residents and planners are not concerned solely ~vith the large amounts of land involved in the development of these superstores. Many associated uses or component activities account for the largest percentage of profits for these businesses. According to the National Automobile Dealers Association, dealers earned an average 5300 profit from each used car sale in 1995, while merely breaking even on new car sales. They derive most of their profits from servicing the vehicles they sell. Most communities whose zoning accommodates used car dealers do not allow automotive repair as a principal use unless specified in the zoning code. Automorive repair is usually associated as a principal use for new automotive dealers in less intensive zones, or as a separate use in more intensive zones. Because auto superstores generally deal in used cars, they would have to apply for a conditional use permit to conduct repair. This can vary, depending on the type of zone in which the dealer is located. Typically, automotive repair shops are located in more intensive zones chat allow industrial uses such as towing services and automotive body shops. Auto superstores usually target suburban areas with less intense zones because of the opportuni ,ty co build on large areas of undeve!oped land. but also because it is [ikelv that they wii[ ben'et4t (rom toca~ intend:ives. Although none of this may seem tike a problem, some ~uburban areas are not prepared to accommodate the volume of traffic these superstores can generate. Se:7'ice areas at the average auto dealership include from six to 1.4 bays. Superstores such as CarMzx may house as many as 40 service bays, plus additional space for a children's pray area and a showroom. This raises additional concerns because the high volume of automotive repair actMtv creates large volumes of waste materials such as oil and other flammable fluids, tires, and heaw machinery, all of which pose disposal challenges. In addition, used car dealers require regulations different from those for new car dealerships. Most municipalities allow new car dealerships to sell and store used cars only if they are trade-ins for new cars, the principal use, with the sale of such cars in most cases constituting a conditional use. New car dealers are allowed to service and repair cars on the site because it is considered a component acdvitw associated with the dealership. Another distinction occurs in the area of building require- ments. In most cases, used car dealers are neither required nor likely to have a showroom. As a result, zoning codes will not impose the same requirements as on new dealerships, which must have a building with a showroom and service area. Auto superstores may not have'a showroom but still will have a building that occupies more space than a new car dealership because of large service areas and amenities such as a children's play area. For instance, the average size fbr a CarMax building is over 38,000 square feet of gross floor area (GFA). Despite the many differences bet~een new and used auto dealerships, they share equal restrictions with regard to parking, setbacks, and buffering. Parking restrictions for automotive dealers tend not to be a major problem because of the large display lots occupying the business. However, planners cannot apply the same fbrmula for regulating parking as with other commercial businesses. Parking standards are generally based on (;FA, and for commercial uses the standard is one space per 150 square feet. Because auto dealers have smaller buildings, the parking requirement would hardly be sufficient to accommodate customers. This normally does not present problems. Most municipalities will allow dealers to have as many spaces as they need if they apply fbr a conditional zoning permit. Setback requirements genei'ally are the same as those for other commercial uses in the same zone. Buffering and screening usually are not required because of the need to have the ~:ars visible from the road, although this may depend on the iocation. Auto Superstores Mania Because the definition of auto malls is vague, there is no accurate method for determining how many currently exist, although, as with other megadevetopments, people know one when they see one. On the other hand, auto superstores are easily defined as large used car dealerships carrying late-model foreign and domestic cars with tow mileage. How many exist? CarMax has seven stores in operation, with more than 40 sites under development and plans to expand that number to between 80 and 90 by 2000. Following close behind are CarChoice and AutoNadon, which have two currently operating locations but nine more sites under devel~apment. They plan to have 18 locations by the end of t99", and a projected 80 more stores within the next five years. Newcomer Drivers Mart Worldwide of Grand Rapids, Michigan, has one location now, but plans to have t00 oudets in three to five years, according to the Wall Street fourna/ (June 12, ~9961. Altogether, these plans total more than 300 dealerships within the next five years, confronting planners with tremendous challenges and numerous options to consider. These big-box auto dealers may soon become the norm for automotive businesses. Some cities are more accommodating than others with regard tO megadevelopments. Cerritos, California, northeast of Long Beach, hosts 13 dealerships and 24 franchises located on over 82 acres of land. This ciD' does the highest volume of automotive sales in the world, according to a study by J.D, Powers and Associates. Cerritos Auto Square was established in !.978 and t979 when the city purchased the land from dairy, farmers. The city theft sold this land at half price to prospective auto dealers, allowing them to make no interest payments for five years. The zoning for this area, located offa major thoroughfare, requires all buildings to follow a unified development scheme and requires a minimum of three acres for development. Nine of the t3 dealerships have been'built by a local developer, which generates additional money for the ciw. According to Bill Manis, the Cerritos redevelopment/economic development administrator, the state, city, and county all receive a portion of the substantial tax revenues generated from sales in the Cerritos Auto Square. Cerritos, he says, illustrates a win-win example in the development of auto malls. Though some municipalities may enjoy the prospect of increasing their revenue by attracting auto malls, giant superstores pose different concerns. Auto superstores seem ro share the same public relations stigma attached to other big box developments. This could be due both to their novelty as a concept for the automotive business and to their size. Despite this new phenomenon, auto malls continue to be a good alternative for dealers seeking to reduce their overhead and for cities that want to group all automotive businesses in one area. But the growth forecasts of auto superstores indicate that many suburbarr communities may be about to witness a change in the way the public buys cars, and thus may be bidding farewell to the neighborhood dealership. Louisville Vision Takes Form In July !.993, Louisville and Jefferson County, Kentucky, began conceptualizing a comprehensive plan to carry, them well into the next century,. Four years later, the plan is still under development, with adoption not expected until late 1998. What's taking so long? The cumbersome process has resulted from an innovative approach to comprehensive planning that the planning department has labeled a Community Form Strategy,. Cornerstone 2020 is a comprehensive plan that embodies the goals, visions, and plans for Jefferson County. At the beginning, 200 people of various backgrounds spent three days discussing what type of place Louisville and Jefferson County, should be in 2020. Over the following three months, according to the resulting document, "approximately 600 people contributed to the creation of this vision." These discussions addressed issues