HomeMy WebLinkAbout2004-03-17 MINUTESREGULAR MEETING
COTTAGE GROVE CITY COUNCIL
March 17, 2004
OPEN FORUM — 7:15 p.m.
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Open forum provides a person an oppoRunity to inform the Council of a problem or to
request information related to City business not scheduled for Council action and on the
Agenda. Mayor Shiely encouraged persons to limit their remarks to two (2) minutes per
issue.
Present: Mayor Sandy Shiely
Council Member Cheryl Kohls
Council Member Pat Rice
Council Member Jim Wolcott
Council Member Mark Grossklaus
Also Present: Ryan Schroeder, City Administrator
Ron Hedberg, Finance & Administrative Services Director
Howard Blin, Community Development Director
Tom Thompson, City Engineer
John Mickelson, Director Public Safety
Harry Taylor, Public Works Superintendent
Corrine Thomson, City Attorney
No one stepped forward to speak during Open Forum.
CALL TO ORDER
The City Council of the City of Cottage Grove, Washington County,
meeting on Wednesday, March 17, 2004, at the Cottage Grove City
South. Mayor Sandy Shiely called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m
ROLL CALL
Present: Mayor Sandy Shiely
Council Member Cheryl Kohls
Council Member Pat Rice
Council Member Jim Wolcott
Council Member Mark Grossklaus
Minnesota held a regular
Hall, 7516 80 Street
Also Present: Ryan Schroeder, City Administrator
Ron Hedberg, Finance & Administrative Services Director
Howard Blin, Community Development Director
Tom Thompson, City Engineer
Regular Meeting — March 17, 2004
Cottage Grove City Council
Page 2
John Mickelson, Director Public Safety
Harry Taylor, Public Works Supervisor
Corrine Thomson, City Attorney
Mayor Shiely presided over the meeting.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
MOTION BY WOLCOTT, SECONDED BY RICE, TO APPROVE THE AGENDA AS
PRESENTED. MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
APPOINTMENTS AND PRESENTATIONS
A. PRESENTATIONS
NONE
B. APPOINTMENTS
NONE
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
NONE
CONSENT CALENDAR
MOTION BY WOLCOTT, SECONDED BY RICE, TO:
A. ACCEPT AND PLACE ON FILE THE FOLLOWING MEETING MINUTES:
i. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF FEBRUARY 10, 2004.
II. PUBLIC WORKS COMMISSION OF FEBRUARY 9, 2004.
B. RECEIVE COMMISSION ATTENDANCE RECORDS AND RECOGNIZE
COMMISSIONERS WITH PERFECT ATTENDANCE RECORDS.
C. ADOPT ORD/NANCE NO. 758 AN ORDINANCE FOR THE CITY OF COTTAGE
GROVE, MINNESOTA, AMENDING TITLE 3-3-11, SUBSECTION A.10 OF THE
COTTAGE GROVE CITY CODE RELATING TO PERSONS INELIGIBLE FOR A
RETAIL LIQUOR LICENSE.
D. ADDOPT RESOLUTION NO. 04-032, A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE
ISSUANCE OF A GAMBLING PREMISE PERMIT TO THE VFW POST #8752,
LOCATED AT 9260 EAST POINT DOUGLAS ROAD, TO CONDUCT CLASS B
LAWFUL PURPOSE GAMBLING EVENTS.
E. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 04-033, A RESOLUTION APPROVING PARTICIPATION
IN THE OUTDOOR RECREATION GRANTS PROGRAM ADMINISTERED BY THE
MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES FOR THE COST
Regular Meeting — March 17, 2004
Cottage Grove City Council
Page 3
PARTICIPATION IN THE PLANNED HAMLET COMMUNITY PARK LAND
ACQUISITION AND SITE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT.
F. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 04-034, A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION
OF A GRANT AGREEMENT WITH THE MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL
RESOURCES TO BE USED FOR TREE PLANTING ASSOCIATED WITH THE
GATEWAY NORTH REDEVELOPMENT DISTRICT.
G. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 04-035, A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN INTERIM
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO ALLOW AN OUTDOOR SEASONAL SALES AREA
AT THE HOME DEPOT.
H. ADOPT ORD/NANCE NO. 759, AN ORDINANCE FOR THE CITY OF COTTAGE
GROVE, MINNESOTA; AMENDING 9-2-1 OF THE COTTAGE GROVE CITY CODE;
ADOPTING THE 2003 MINNESOTA STATE BUILDING CODE.
I. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 04-036, A RESOLUTION APPROVING A CONDITIONAL
USE PERMIT TO ALLOW NEXTEL COMMUNICATIONS TO INSTALL NINE (9) NEW
AND THREE (3) FUTURE ANTENNAS ON AN EXISTING MONOPOLE AND THE
CONSTRUCTION OF AN EQUIPMENT SHELTER AT 10475 KIMBRO AVENUE
SOUTH.
J. ACCEPT GRANT FUNDING FROM THE STATE OF MINNESOTA, DIVISION OF
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT, TO ASSIST IN DEFRAYING THE COSTS OF THE
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS EXERCISE.
K. AUTHORIZE ISSUANCE OF A SINGLE-OCCASION GAMBLING PERMIT TO THE
PHOENIX RESIDENCE, INC. TO CONDUCT A RAFFLE AT RIVER OAKS GOLF
COURSE ON JUNE 7, 2004.
L. ACCEPT THE SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT WITH UP NORTH PLASTICS FOR
LOSSES ARISING OUT OF THE DECEMBER 12, 2004 FIRE.
M. APPROVE THE RENEWAL APPLICATION OF HEATHER NUGENT, 7780 JEFFERY
AVENUE SOUTH, FOR A MULTIPLE ANIMAL LICENSE.
N. ACCEPT THE PROPOSED HUNTING FEE SCHEDULE CHANGES AND
APPLICATION PERMIT PROCESS. AUTHORIZE STAFF TO PREPARE THE
NECESSARY ORDINANCE AND RESOLUTION AMENDMENT.
O. AUTHORIZE STAFF TO PURCHASE PUMP PLANT UPGRADE FROM MTI
DISTRIBUTING FOR $32,722.00 PLUS SALES TAX.
P. 1. AUTHORIZE THE CREATION OF A SIXTH SERGEANT POSITION IN THE
PUBLIC SAFETY DEPARTMENT; AND. 2. APPROVE THE APPOINTMENT OF
GREGORY RINZEL TO THE POSITION OF SERGEANT.
Q. AUTHORIZE THE PLACEMENT OF A STOP SIGN ON 68 STREET AT INNSDALE
AVENUE.
R. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 04-037, A RESOLUTION AMENDING THE 2004 PAY
PLAN AND BENEFITS FOR EMPLOYEES NOT COVERED BY A LABOR
CONTRACT FOR THE CITY OF COTTAGE GROVE (AMENDS RESOLUTION NO.
04-005).
S. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 04-038, A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE
SUPPLEMENT EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF COTTAGE
GROVE AND CITY ADMINISTRATOR RYAN SCHROEDER.
T. AUTHORIZE STAFF TO PURCHASE CATERING KITCHEN UPGRADES IN AN
AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $30,732.55.
Regular Meeting — March 17, 2004
Cottage Grove City Council
Page 4
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
RESPONSE TO PREVIOUSLY RAISED OPEN FORUM ISSUES
NONE
PUBLIC HEARINGS
NONE
BID AWARDS
NONE
UNFINISHED AND NEW BUSINESS
A. 1 Consider Aparovinq a Zoninq Amendment to Rezone Proqertv Located at
Hardwood Avenue from R-2 Residential Estate to B-2 Retail Business.
John Burbank, Senior Planner, stated that Eugene Stoltz, 29630 Glader Boulevard,
Lindstrom Minnesota, has applied for a zoning amendment to change the zoning of property
from R-2, Residential Estate, to B-2, Retail Business, for property located on the northwest
corner of Hardwood Avenue and Harkness Avenue and for a site plan review of a proposed
17,124 square foot retail center to be located on that property. He stated that an
architectural site plan and an area detail of the Gateway North district, with the proposed
project location identified, have been provided for Council review.
Burbank stated that the proposed applications were reviewed based on the City's standard
development performance standards. He reviewed the location of the property noting that
the site is adjacent to the Oakwood Park site.
Referencing the Planning Staff Report, Burbank stated that the report includes information
regarding the review and the required modifications and conditions. He stated that the report
also identifies the tree mitigation requirements that would be imposed upon the Developer as
a result of the final proposed site layout. He stated that the architectural design and
proposed construction materials are consistent with the guidelines and policies established
by the City for the Gateway Redevelopment project.
Burbank stated that the only major questions raised by the Planning Commission relate to
the traffic impacts on Hardwood and Harkness Avenues. He stated that the final design for
Hardwood Avenue was completed based on the projected traffic in a commercially developed
area. The traffic studies were done for the City and are included in the packet for Council's
review. Burbank then reviewed the two proposed access points noting that parking for the
area is above minimum requirements. He reviewed the truck turnaround areas noting that
the turnaround allows access for the larger, box type vehicles such as UPS, but not for semi-
Regular Meeting — March 17, 2004
Cottage Grove City Council
Page 5
trailers. He reviewed the buffering of the site stating that they applied the architectural and
landscaping controls based on the standards in the Gateway District.
Burbank reviewed the area charges, park dedication fees, and tree mitigation plan with
Council. He reviewed the commercial traffic flows with Council noting that Harkness Avenue
is scheduled to be resurfaced this summer. He stated that, in connection with the
improvements, Staff is recommending studying the feasibility of installing a traffic-calming
island on Harkness Avenue, north of the project. He noted that the design is similar to the
design used on Hadley Avenue. Burbank stated that the Planning Commission
recommended approval after it was noted that additional traffic information would be
presented to Council. He indicated that the site plan is consistent with the Comprehensive
Plan and is in compliance with the zoning ordinance standards as well as the City's
redevelopment plans for the Gateway North commercial district.
Council Member Kohls expressed concerns regarding the truck loading and drive entrance.
She asked for clarification on the width of the entrance. Burbank clarified that the width is
24-feet.
Council Member Kohls asked for clarification on the width of Harkness Avenue. City
Administrator Schroeder stated that in that particular area, Harkness is approximately 36-feet
wide.
Council Member Kohls referenced the traffic study noting that it was done in September
2002. She stated that she did not see, in the packet, what area they took into account or if
the zoning refers to Kohls or other retail in the area. Kohls asked if the study also took into
account the commercial on the backside of the property, to the west. City Administrator
Schroeder explained that the study included the projects they knew of at the time. Council
Member Kohis asked if this also included the smaller property to the west, off Hardwood.
City Administrator Schroeder confirmed that it did include that property.
Council Member Kohls noted that the study indicates that a traffic light would be needed at
80` Street after the year 2020 and asked if this area was also included. She expressed
concerns regarding the flow of traffic noting that she wants to be sure she understands the
areas that were included in the study. City Administrator Schroeder further clarified the areas
included for Council.
Mr. Stoltz assured the Council that they have worked closely with both City Staff and Richard
Krum from RKA Architects. He stated that they have worked very hard with the design noting
that the development would be a real asset for the City of Cottage Grove. He also stated
that he has truly enjoyed working with City Staff and that it has been a pleasure being a part
of this project.
Council Member Wolcott referenced Council Member Kohls concerns regarding the truck
delivery area and asked Mr. Krum if he was comfortable with the delivery lane behind
building. Mr. Krum stated that he is very comfortable with the design. He reviewed the area
with Council noting that the truck shown on the sketch is a 30-foot truck, similar to the type
Regular Meeting — March 17, 2004
Cottage Grove City Council
Page 6
used by UPS. He stated that the delivery area is not conducive for semi-truck deliveries
noting that a semi would have to back into the area.
Council Member Wolcott expressed concerns that if deliveries are brought by a semi that
they might have to deliver to the front door. He stated that several businesses in the area do
have semi-truck deliveries and expressed concerns that the trucks would have to back into
the area in order to make deliveries. He stated that he does like the design but does have
concerns regarding delivery access. Mr. Krum acknowledged his concerns and reviewed the
delivery access areas with Council. He indicated that the delivery policies would have to be
determined by the Center.
Mayor Shiely expressed her concerns regarding the usage of Harkness Avenue. She stated
that she does not want to see an increase in the traffic flow and encouraged Mr. Krum to do
whatever they could to help keep people from using Harkness Avenue.
Council Member Kohls noted that she has been married to a trucker, who has lived all of his
life in the Cottage Grove area. She indicated that he has 25-years of accident free driving
and asked him, as a trucker, how he would get in and out of this area. She stated that he
explained to her that if he were to back out with the trailer going to north, that he would be
backing the truck out blind and that most truckers would prefer backing out to the south on
Harkness. She stated that she has strong concerns with the delivery area and possible truck
traffic on Harkness. She stated that Harkness is not constructed to handle that kind of traffic
in addition to the potential safety issues and increased traffic on Harkness. She stated that it
is her belief that traffic would increase on Harkness, especially if it offers a straight shot to
70` She clarified that her concerns are with transportation, in general, for the area stating
that when the area fully develops they could be creating a problem much like the Cub/TCF
bank area. She stated that she was not in favor of this development two years ago noting
that she does agree that Mr. Stoltz has a right to benefit, adding that at this point, until she
gets reassurances on her concerns, she would vote no.
Mayor Shiely acknowledged Council Member Kohls concerns noting that they are valid
concerns. She agreed that with the redevelopment of the area traffic would increase.
Council Member Kohls stated that they have known this project was coming. She expressed
concerns that it continues to be extended and that no one has truly considered the big
picture and the impact it could have on the traffic flow for the area. She stated that this is
how they continue to get into the jams they do with respect to traffic flows in Cottage Grove.
Mayor Shiely stated that the EDA has considered the big picture adding that the road would
not be extended. She clarified that this is an end area.
Council Member Wolcott indicated that the Public Works Department has discussed the
delivery area and expressed his concerns with respect to the possibility of semi-truck
deliveries. He asked if there would be a way that they could do something to accommodate
the possibilities of semi-truck deliveries. He stated that they do not want trucks backing out
Regular Meeting — March 17. 2004
Cottage Grove Cfty Council
Page 7
and traveling down Harkness Avenue. He clarified that his concerns are with the semi-trucks
not the smaller, box-type trucks.
Mayor Shiely suggested that they include a requirement that all deliveries must be made to
the back of the building.
City Administrator Schroeder acknowledged Council's concerns noting that there would be
signage in the area stating 'No Trucks'. He noted that the signs do not necessarily solve the
problem adding that it would help to decrease and eliminate the truck traffic. He stated that
the traffic-calming island would be a marginal benefit at best adding that he does believe
they should try it. With respect to the concerns regarding the trucks backing out onto
Harkness, the City has asked the contractor to provide a design that would allow semi
deliveries. He suggested that Council consider a variance that would allow them to design
the appropriate delivery areas. He indicated that the areas could be designated and
restricted for access adding that it could also be incorporated into a truck route.
Council Member Kohls clarified that the parking in front of the building is a 24-hour fire lane.
Public Works Superintendent Taylor confirmed.
Mayor Shiely expressed concerns regarding the setback variance because of the setback
issues already identified with both the commercial and rural areas. She stated that she does
not want to impede any of the landscaping plans and asked for further clarification.
City Administrator Schroeder clarified the setbacks with Council noting that the parcel of land
is a vacant parcel and that the impact would be minimal. He provided Council with an
overview of the proposal noting that the proposed applications were reviewed in relation to
the City's standard development performance standards, criteria and policies. He noted that
the report provides information regarding the required modifications, conditions and tree
mitigation requirements that would be imposed upon the developer as a result of the final
proposed site layout and reviewed with Council.
City Attorney Thomson clarified that it would require four votes to approve.
MOTION BY WOLCOTT, SECONDED BY RICE, TO ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 760, AN
ORDINANCE FOR THE CITY OF COTTAGE GROVE, MINNESOTA AMENDING CITY
CODE SECTION 11-1-6, ZONING MAP VIA REZONING CERTAIN PROPERTY FROM R-2,
RESIDENTIAL ESTATE, TO B-2, RETAIL BUSINESS, FOR PROPERTY LOCATED ON
THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF HARDWOOD AVENUE AND HARNESS AVENUE.
MOTION CARRIED 4-1. (KOHLS-NAY)
2 Consider Approvina a Site Plan Review for a 17 124 Square-Foot Retail Center.
Council Member Wolcott clarified that his only concern is with respect to the delivery area.
He asked the owner if he understands his concern and how it would be solved. He stated
that several businesses in the area do have semi-truck deliveries adding that he is concerned
this would also happen here. He stated that his main concern is that there is no suggested
Regular Meeting — March 17, 2004
Cottage Grove City Council
Page 8
solution for this issue. Mr. Stoltz confirmed that he understood and reviewed the proposed
delivery area with Council.
City Administrator Schroeder asked Mr. Krum if the Council allowed for a variance to provide
for better turning movements would it provide an opportunity to benefit the current situation.
Mr. Krum stated that they did review this option at one point noting that they had decided to
try to accomplish this project without a variance. He agreed that a variance could solve the
problem.
Mayor Shiely asked if they were opposed to specific hours for semi delivery. Mr. Krum stated
that he would not have a problem designating delivery hours noting that they are not sure
how effective it could be.
Senior Planner Burbank noted that delivery hours were an identified restriction for the
Applebee's project. He stated that if it does become an issue the City could address. He
stated that they could review increasing the turning radiant and that they would be willing to
consider all options.
Council Member Grossklaus asked if the parking lot could be shifted more towards
Hardwood.
Mayor Shiely noted that they have excess parking spaces and asked if it would be possible
to change the position of the shopping center to bring it closer to Hardwood and give more
room in the back.
City Administrator Schroeder explained that the constraining issue is the driving entrance off
Hardwood. He further explained that if the shopping center was moved forward the parking
along the curb line would have to be reconfigured or lost. Schroeder stated that they could
run into a front setback issue and a grade problem. He stated that he would rather see the
setback intrusion if it is as Mr. Krum described noting that the impact would be minimal.
Council Member Kohls clarified that notification has to be sent to the neighbors for a variance
request. She asked for clarification on the setback as it is currently drawn. Senior Planner
Burbank stated that the setback would be approximately 10-feet. He stated that it would give
additional design maneuverability and could also give the potential radiant that they want.
Mayor Shiely stated that she is very uncomfortable with expanding their setback
requirements due to the fact that they could have someone that might require a semi delivery
at some point in time. She suggested limiting the access to those not using semi's or limiting
the use to a certain period of time for deliveries.
Mr. Krum noted that limiting the hours of delivery would be a very simple solution. He
assured the Council that the Stoltz family intends to own this project for a very long time.
Mayor Shiely stated that she would be comfortable with identifying the hours of use. She
stated that restricted semi access would have to be made very clear to the tenants. Mr.
Regular Meeting — March 17, 2004
Cottage Grove City Council
Page 9
Krum stated that they could incorporate the restriction as a part of the lease and reviewed
with Council.
Mayor Shiely polled the Council on their feelings for the setback.
Council Members Kohls, Rice and Grossklaus were not in favor.
Council Member Wolcott stated that when Cub Foods went in they were given delivery
restrictions and it has not been complied with, same with the Dairy Queen. He stated that
the fact remains, they will have tenants, semi's will come. He expressed concerns as to how
the semi-trucks would get into that small area. He stated it would happen and it has to be
accommodated. He asked what they plan to do when it does happen.
Community Development Director Blin stated they might not have the solution. He
suggested that Council continue the site plan review until staff can meet with Mr. Stoltz to
work out the issues. The Council agreed.
Council Member Kohls asked them to keep in mind that the tenants would come and go over
the years and to consider the type of traffic when considering the solutions.
MOTION BY WOLCOTT, SECONDED BY RICE, TO TABLE THE DISCUSSION AND SITE
PLAN REVIEW TO THE APRIL 7, 2004 REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING. MOTION
CARRIED 5-0.
6. Consider Approvinq a Variance to Reduce the Rear Yard Setback from 50 Feet to 35
Feet to Allow Construction of a Sinqle-Familv Home at 6250 Preserve Pass.
Community Development Director Blin stated that Marie Campion, 3844 Joppa Avenue, St.
Louis Park, has applied for a variance from the 50-foot minimum rear yard setback
requirement for the R-2, Residential Estate District. He stated that the purpose of this rear
yard setback variance is to allow the construction of a new single-family dwelling within 34
feet of the rear yard boundary line. A copy of the location map and the parcel's property
boundary survey has been included in the Planning Staff report for Council's review. Blin
noted that the Planning Commission held a Public Hearing on February 23, 2004 noting that
the only public testimony received at the hearing was from Ronald Reimann supporting the
variance application. He stated that the Planning Commission unanimously approved, 8-0
votes, a reduction to the 50-foot minimum rear yard setback to 35-feet. Blin explained that
the 35-foot minimum was required because other residential dwellings located to the west of
the property are required to comply with the R-2.5 DistricYs 35-foot minimum rear yard
setback. He stated that the Planning Commission also concurred with the Planning Staff
findings that the property owner could move their home to the south by one foot in order to
comply with the 35-foot minimum. He indicated that the Planning Commission's
recommendation is also contingent on the conditions of approval as stipulated in the
Planning Staff Report and reviewed with Council.
Regular Meeting — March 17, 2004
Cottage Grove Cfty Council
Page 10
MOTION BY WOLCOTT, SECONDED BY KOHLS, TO ADOPT RESOLUT/ON NO. 04-039
A RESOLUTION GRANTING A VARIANCE FROM TITLE 11-9B-5, DEVELOPMENT
STANDARDS IN R-2 ZONING DISTRICT, TO REDUCE THE REQUIRED REAR YARD
SETBACK FROM 50 FEET TO 35 FEET TO ALLOW CONSTRUCTION OF A SINGLE-
FAMILY HOME AT 6250 PRESERVE PASS. MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
C. 1 Consider Apqrovinq the Proqosed Phase 1 Tree Mitiqation Plantinq Quantitv,
Varietv and Location Plan.
John Burbank stated that this is Phase One of the Tree Mitigation Plan for the Gateway
Redevelopment Project. He stated that staff has been monitoring the progress and noted the
grading activity and tree loss. Burbank stated that as a part of the West Draw Planning
process, the City had concerns regarding tree loss and created tree preservation as part of
the zoning code. He explained that each project is reviewed for tree preservation and
mitigation and reviewed the ordinance requirements and tree management process with
Council adding that tree preservation is an evolving process as it moves forward. He
reviewed the site design process with Council noting that all items that come into play include
tree location, grade changes, access locations and building locations, when considering tree
preservation and mitigation.
Burbank reviewed the commercial and industrial removal limits with Council noting that
developments are allowed up to 50% removal without penalties or project denial. He stated
that the ordinance does recognize that certain amounts of tree removal are a result of
construction and development. He explained that as a part of the replacement, placing trees
onsite is the best but replacement can be done within the greater development area or on
public land. He stated that the required planting is that the smaller the tree, the greater the
number of trees that would be planted in the area. He noted that as a part of the site
selection process for mitigation projects, the criteria requires that all sites are public property
and have a high visibility. He noted that two sites that are scheduled for plantings are in the
Gateway district. He explained that if the developer cannot replace the trees a mitigation fee
would be required, which would be the City's cost for acquisition and planting of the trees that
were removed.
Burbank explained that this is reviewed on an annual basis and provided the Council with an
overview of the funding process. He stated that the Gateway North Redevelopment Project
Tree Mitigation fund is approximately $311,114.00. The fund will increase slightly with
several upcoming projects. He reviewed the Phase One project scope with Council noting
that it would include planting 298 trees. He reviewed the tree types noting that they are
considering a large variety of trees and shrubs. In the long term the City would benefit from
the mitigation process. He reviewed the planting areas in Cottage Grove stating that it would
include Hardwood Avenue, Oakwood Park slope, Kingston Park, Pine Glen and others. He
stated that there are a good variety of trees within the corridor and that they plan to
supplement according to mitigation guidelines. He stated that the plans were developed in-
house and reviewed with Council.
Regular Meeting — March 17, 2004
Cottage Grove City Council
Page 11
Burbank reviewed Meadow Grass Park with Council noting the additional trailways that have
been included as a part of the park master planning. He indicated that they are focusing on
the slope along 70 Street and the Water Tower area. He reviewed the West Draw Park with
Council stating that a parking lot was installed as part of the road project and would also
include plantings in the area.
Burbank reviewed the project timeline with Council stating that they plan to advertise for bids
on March 24, 2004 with bids opening on April 12, 2004 and commence planting in May 2004.
Burbank reviewed an aerial view of the City of Cottage Grove, taken in 1973, and pointed out
the areas of development. He noted that the majority of the area at that time was farmland
and referenced the additional foliage that has been planted since that time.
Council Member Grossklaus noted that in the special provisions it states that the contractor
would be responsible for watering for 90-days and asked what the plan is for ongoing
maintenance after that time. Public Works Superintendent Taylor stated that the Public
Works Department is doing the best to keep up with the plantings and reviewed maintenance
with Council.
Council Member Grossklaus asked if mowing has been considered. Public Works
Superintendent Taylor stated that they have designated summer jobs for kids along
Hardwood and Harkness and reviewed with Council.
Council Member Grossklaus stated that 80� Street and Harkness could become a major
thoroughfare and asked if they have taken into consideration what they would do with
maintenance if they have to widen the streets. City Administrator Schroeder stated that
when they designed the street they did so with traffic volumes in mind. He stated that they
did not think that the traffic volumes in the area would justify a four-lane. He stated that the
Council goal was to create a country lane and that this was the biggest reason for the design.
He stated that the planting they are doing now is an effort to reinforce that vision. He
explained that if traffic speeds or volume do become an issue that Public Works would then
have to address the concerns. He stated that increasing the road to a four-lane width could
actually encourage more traffic noting that the traffic studies did show that the two lanes
would be sufficient for the area.
Council Member Grossklaus stated that the East Ravine was not planned at that point noting
that from Jamaica all the way to 19 would now be developed. He indicated that residents
would not drive down 80� when they could use 70 He encouraged them to keep this in
mind going forward.
Mayor Shiely asked what the average setback is for plantings along Hardwood. Senior
Planner Burbank explained that it would be outside the utilities area and that it would
probably be 15 feet back from the curb. He indicated that this would be coordinated with the
Public Works Department and reviewed with Council.
Regular Meeting — March 17, 2004
Cottage Grove City Council
Page 12
City Administrator Schroeder clarified that the goal was that the canopy of trees would not
increase the need for maintenance. Senior Planner Burbank referenced the limited traffic
noting that they are reviewing the traffic flow as a part of the development. He noted that the
entire western side would not have access due to home ownership and reviewed with
Council.
Council Member Kohls acknowledged Council Member Grossklaus' concerns and thanked
him for bringing this issue up for discussion. She expressed concerns stating that this would
become a collector road whether it was designed to be or not. She noted the potential for an
additional 10,000 homes on 70� plus the West Draw and asked what options are being
considered to address this concern. City Administrator Schroeder clarified that he did not
state that the road would not be a collector road and confirmed that it actually is. He
referenced the East Ravine roadway, along the ridge of the ravine noting that they would also
do they same type of visioning in this area, a two-lane country/urban road with a parkway
feel.
Council Member Wolcott noted that they would probably need to do another traffic study for
the area.
Mayor Shiely stated that their long-range planning is very commendable. She noted that it
would be very interesting to see how far back the plants are set on Hardwood.
MOTION BY KOHLS, SECONDED BY GROSSKLAUS, TO APPROVE THE PROPOSED
PHASE ONE TREE MITIGATION PLANTING QUANTITY, VARIETY, AND LOCATION
PLAN. MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
2 Consider Apqrovinq the Proposed Phase One Tree Mitiqation Proiect
Specifications.
Mayor Shiely asked if this would include the study of the distance. Senior Planner Burbank
stated that there would be some modification to the plans to address the varieties.
MOTION BY WOLCOTT, SECONDED BY RICE TO APPROVE THE PHASE ONE TREE
MITIGATION PROJECT SPECIFICATIONS. MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
3 Consider Aqprovina the Placement of the Advertisement for Bids i the March 24
Edition of the South Washinqton Countv Bulletin.
MOTION BY RICE, SECONDED BY KOHLS, TO APPROVE THE PLACEMENT OF THE
ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS IN THE MARCH 24, 2004 EDITION OF THE SOUTH
WASHINGTON COUNTY BULLETIN. MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
RESPONSE TO PREVIOUSLY RAISED COUNCIL COMMENTS AND REQUESTS
NONE
Regular Meeting — March 17, 2004
Cottage Grove City Council
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COUNCIL COMMENTS AND REQUESTS
Mayor Shiely stated that on April 6, 2004, the County Board is going to be discussing the
South Service Center. She explained that the center would be moving to another location
and that two sites are being considered. She reviewed the site locations with Council stating
that she plans to attend and that Staff would also like to know where that there is a level of
interest from the Council. She stated that besides the service center site their hope is that in
the future they could have some form of partnership with the County in establishing a center
of some form. She indicated that some very positive things could come from this and that
she would like to give the County direction that there is a high level of interest from the City
Council.
Council Member Wolcott agreed with Mayor Shiely and noted a couple of stipulations. He
stated that if they support this that the County should get County Road 19 on their Capital
Improvement Plan. He stated that the second stipulation would be retaining the courts in the
South Washington County area. He noted that they have discussed this issue before adding
that it is very important to the Citizens that they keep the courts in this area. He stated that it
is also important to the taxpayers, as it would cost more for prosecutors and the Police
Department to drive to Stiliwater on a regular basis to testify. He stated that he is supportive
of this but that it would be contingent on County Road 19 and keeping the South Washington
County Service Center in the area that would also include a court facility. He suggested
including an article, written by the Police Chief, regarding the County Court Systems. He
stated that he would attend the County Board meeting with Mayor Shiely.
Council Member Rice agreed with both Mayor Shiely and Council Member Wolcott. He
explained that his feeling is that he would rather have them use tax-exempt land in an
existing area versus taking more land off the tax roles. He noted that in twenty years there
would be a population shift, especially in the East Ravine, which makes this a more central
location.
Mayor Shiely encouraged the Council to attend the meeting on April 6 th and agreed that
retaining the county support system in the south is a very important issue.
Council Member Kohls noted Strawberry Fest. She stated that it would include the golf
dome, miniature golf and activities geared for the family throughout the weekend. She stated
that it was also suggested that they contact neighboring communities and have a City
Council Golf Tournament that would take place on that Saturday.
The Council agreed to the miniature golf tournament and Council Member Wolcott suggested
including one line of pin. Council Member Kohls stated that she would take his suggestion
back to the Committee for further discussion and update the Council.
PAY BILLS
MOTION BY RICE, SECONDED BY KOHLS, TO APPROVE PAYMENT OF CHECK
NUMBERS 133607 THROUGH 133786 TOTALING $545,658.32. (CHECKS 133607 —
Regular Meeting — March 17, 2004
Cottage Grove City Council
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133786 IN THE AMOUNT OF $114,634.64 ISSUED PRIOR TO COUNCIL APPROVAL.)
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
WORKSHOP SESSION — OPEN
NONE
WORKSHOP SESSION — CLOSED
NONE
ADJOURNMENT
MOTION BY KOHLS, SECONDED BY SHIELY, TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 9:10 P.M.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Respectfully submitted,
Bonita Sullivan
TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.