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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2006-10-09 MINUTES� � � � � ■ � � . , � '! � , � ••- • ��, Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a meeting of the Public Works Commission of Cottage Grove was duly held at the Cottage Grove Public Works Facility, 8635 West Point Douglas Road South, Cottage Grove, Minnesota on Monday, October 9, 2006 at 7:00 pm. 1. CALL TO ORDER Chair David Anderson called the meeting to order at 7:02 pm. 2. RO�L CALL David Anderson, Ken Boyden, Robert Dornsbach, Roger Finnegan, Gary Kjellberg, William Royce Absent: Mackenzie Kelly, Mallory Kelly Staff Present: Les Burshten, Pubiic Works Director Harry Taylor, Public Works Supervisor Jennifer Levitt, City Engineer Also Present: Mark Grossklaus, City Council Member 3. APPROVE MINUTES Upon a motion by David Anderson, seconded by Robert Dornsbach, the August 14, 2006 minutes were unanimously approved. 4. ADDITIONAL AGENDA ITEMS 90�" Street and County Road 19 Visibility Issue — See °Commission Comments and Requests" Follow up — Council's granting of variances — See "Commission Comments and Requests" 5. NEW BUSINESS A. Technical Review 6.1 Walden Woods — Cases ZA06-067 and PP06-068 Platinum Development has applied for a zoning amendment to change the zoning from R-1, Rural Residential, and R-2, Residential Estate, to R-2C, Detached Single Family Public Works Commission October 9, 2006 — Page 2 District, and R-2.5, Residential; and a preliminary plat for Walden Woods, which would be located on property north of 65�" Street and east of Hadley Avenue. This proposed subdivision would consist of 209 lots for single family homes and 11 outlots. (continued from S/25f06). City Engineer Jennifer Levitt noted this item has been on previous agendas and recently attended a meeting to resolve stormwater issues on the Woodbury side. To explain the situation, she stated the water flow coming across the border from Woodbury could be described as an "equivalent to Minnehaha Falls". This must be reduced to the flow of water that would, for example, come out of a fire hydrant. In order to accompiish this reduction, Woodbury must construct a massive amount of storm ponding in order to control the rate of water as it comes across into Cottage Grove. Because of this, a number of Iots would have to be heid in Walden Woods due to the fact that water flow from Woodbury could be compromising some of those building sites. What we would like to see happen is the necessary storm ponding buiit that is required to control the rate. Utilities on North Hadley Avenue Upon the initial development of the West Draw, one sanitary line was constructed off Hardwood. At a later date when it was thought the area would be further developed, a second pipe was placed on Hardwood Avenue to accommodate the sanitary sewer. With the double pipe, the City was able to service sanitary sewer right to the border. Every person that buys a new home and purchases a lot pays into that double pipe system. Levitt stated, "Why would we not extend the sanitary pipe up Hadley Avenue when we've got the stub installed at the correct elevation to service Walden Woods through Hadley?" Should any of the septic systems fail for the Hadley Avenue residents, there is the future benefit of the ability to connect them to sewer service. Anytime on-site systems can be eliminated, thaYs a good thing. Levitt is concerned that the developer wishes to install a lift station in Walden Woods when sewer connections can be serviced by gravity up Hadley Avenue. The residents on Hadley are not being assessed, but would rather pay for an at-time connection. Additionally, North Hadley is a safety hazard and is the biggest issue facing Walden Woods from the west. Commission Chair David Anderson asked why the developer is pushing for a lift station. �evitt responded that one reason may be cost savings. At the same time, this would affect residents that pay a utility bill in Cottage Grove to pay a higher price. This is due to the fact that a lift station has maintenance issues, has to be serviced and in general, has more labor intensive issues associated with it. Levitt doesn't feel iYs fair to taxpayers and people that pay into our utility fund to pay for a lift station when the City has made the necessary accommodations. Levitt added there are eight residents that could stop the process and in fact, do not pay utility fees for sanitary sewer and water. Commission Member Gary Kjellberg questioned whether or not this improvement would be charged to the residents at this time. Levitt responded the only charge to be paid Public Works Commission October 9, 2006 — Page 3 for at this time would be road improvements. Kjellberg commented tnat Nadley Avenue is in need of road improvement anyway. Levitt commented these residents wisl� to pesserve trees and the rural friendliress of the area. For proper drainage, a number of trees will have to be removed. Additionally, a number of the residents fear pulling out of their driveways on to Hadley, but do not feel at this time iYs enough of a safety hazard for road improvements to be made. It was hoped to directional drill Hadley with utilities and try to make the impact as small as possible. Because of the road safety issue on Hadley Avenue, this is obviously the time the developer can help pick up some of the tab for that road improvement. Anderson asked what the negative aspect would be to not do anything at all and to leave things as they are. Levitt responded that a section of Walden Woods would have to be served by a lift station or an extremely deep sanitary sewer would be required. Roger Finnegan inquired what would happen if at some point residents may want to tie in to utility service. Would it be the individual's responsibility to pay to have water brought in or would the City step in? L.evitt responded that the residents wouid have to petition the City to bring potable water in. Kjellberg asked if this would be more costly to which �evitt responded, "correcY'. Public Works Supervisor Harry Taylor stated significant cost went into that second pipe based on what was indicated by the West Draw Task Force. To go back to a lift station would be a shame, and may be a liability and insurance risk. 6.2 3M Radio Control Flvers Club — Case ICUP06-073 3M Company has applied for an interim conditional use permit to continue operation of a radio control flyers field at 6221 Keats Avenue South. 6.3 Bushilla �ot Split — Cases RS06-069 and V06-070 Paula and Michael Bushilla have applied for a simple Iot division to subdivide a parcel of land at 10276 East Point Douglas Road into two parcels and variances to City Code Title 11-9A-5, Development Standards in the R-1 Rural Residential zoning district, to reduce the required lot frontage, and to Title 11=3-7, Farming Operations in Residential Districts (continued from 925/06). Engineering is having some issues due to drainage concerns. 6. OLD BUSINESS A. Compost Site Public Works Director Les Burshten explained that Kevin Tritz of NRG will be getting back to him as to what may be done with our compost site and whether we'll be able to use it for one more year. Pubiic Works Commission October 9, 2006 — Page 4 The EDA sees the site exhibiting potential for a corporate campus and a compost site doesn't fit that same vision. Even if the City wished to purchase the site (at $2.25/square foot), the land may not be available for this use. When that site closes, the City iniends io reopen a facility at another locatian. Jntil the cornpany makes that decision, the site will remain open. B. Highway 61/Jamaica Avenue Roundabout Presentation Jennifer Levitt explained an important aspect in the success of the roundabout is successful public education. Secondly, staff is in need of another group of eyes, ears, and drivers such as the members around this table to assist in identifying questions and concerns. The actual designer of the roundabout will attend the next meeting and questions may also be asked at that time. Levitt expiained the reason a roundabout was chosen for this location consisted of various factors including: the traffic backup on Highway 61 and the inability to make various turns onto Jamaica from West Point Douglas, East Point Douglas, or the ramps. She also reiterated the reason an all-way stop, a tra�c signal or even a single-lane roundabout was eliminated was because of the inability to identify a high enough (A) rating in what we call "level of service". The only option ending up with an "A" rating for level of service on all factors was a multi-lane roundabout. Levitt displayed the roundabout Iayout designed by a consultant as required by the Department of Transportation. Additionally, a third party consuitant also reviewed the design. There has been a tremendous amount of input on the project and iYs a matter of sorting through the input to find something that's workable. One of the biggest issues that still must be addressed is maintenance. Levitt supplied handouts that illustrated the areas to be maintained by Public Works. A maintenance agreement with the Department of Transportation must be worked through to figure out exactly what and how the area wiil be maintained. Input is being sought from Public Works crews regarding plowing of the roundabouf. They will also have an opportunity to voice their concerns to the designers themselves at the October 24�" Annual Snowplow Meeting. She wishes them to address issues right down to the vegetation that will be placed in the center, what irrigation system should be used, or if no irrigation should be installed. Other issues such as signing, striping and lighting all have to be coordinated with the Department of Transportation as well. Levitt stated with the design of the roundabout layout as it is right now, the amount of pavement has been reduced, earth work has been minimized and no right-of-ways were necessary to be acquired as part of this project. A current draft of the landscaping plan was also distributed to give members a visual as we look at the detailed schematics of the design. As drivers exit off of Highway 61, they will have the picture of entering a valiey with a river, next drive through lush, dense trees, and then enter a more manicured landscape near the roundabout. Many features have also been Pubiic Works Commission October 9, 2006 — Page 5 incorporated including rain gardens and low maintenance plantings. Roundabouts are also known for their lower emissions and low speed limit. One of the biggest issues to overcome wil� be the navigationa� fears motorists w�ll �ike�y experience. Much thought is being put into how to bring the public at ease with the idea. A unique plan is to actuaily set up a half-scale roundabout model at the Strawberry Festival next year. Residents will have the opportunity to practice navigating the roundabout with a golf court to familiarize themselves with new striping and signage. An informational breakfast meeting for businesses in the area is also planned. Plans and specifications are hoped to be approved in February. The bid opening wiBl likely be in April with construction beginning in May and project completion in October (before snow is on the ground in order for motorists to become familiar with the pavement markings). Landscape architects have indicated the existing light fixtures may not fit with the elements. Additionally, information regarding pavement design was discussed. It is being recommended that a 7-inch concrete thickness be utilized which will have a life expectancy of 54 years with 90% reliability. A brief discussion ensued regarding the problem that many motorists simply do not read or pay attention to signs. Levitt explained that the signs in the roundabout would consist of mostly symbols. Because we've never had a roundabout, the signs will be very unique and will match up with the pavement markings. Additional information on this project will be distributed for the next meeting. G. Highlands Pond Update. Burshten indicated pathways have been installed and will be paved this week. The City is installing an irrigation system. The peninsula is complete, the rocks are installed. Commission members were encouraged to take a look at the progress. D. Pine Tree Valley Pond/Trail Improvement Project A neighborhood meeting was heid with the residents in the Pepper Ridge Area. They were informed of what work the City is intending to do concerning the pond and the trail. The installation of a parking lot was aiso discussed and residents were concerned about what impact this may have on their neighborhood. It was also noted there has been quite a bit of encroachment on City property. Property markers have been placed and residents were informed they would be getting notices on items that must be moved off City property. E. Xcel Energy Representatives from Xcel Energy attended the October 4, 2006 Council Meeting. They discussed the gas main replacement project that is taking piace. The City has Public Works Commission October 9, 2006 — Page 6 been negotiating with Xcel since June as to what the City is requesting in regard to main replacement. Xcei explained that metro-wide, 107 miles of century pipe must be replaced and added the Public Utilities Commission is allowing them three years to complete the upgrade. Some pipe installed in the early-to-mid 70's is failing for one reason or another. The Council has suggested they don't want any single mains in town at all and Xcel has been very reluctant to double-main. It will be suggested through the permit process that any future work in the City will consist of double mains. E. Northern Natural Gas Project Burshten explained there is a 24" gas main located near Woodridge Park that must be pressure tested. Residents in the area and the Public Safety Department were notified of the procedure that was to take place. Northern Natural Gas staff were very good to work with and very safety-conscious. It was noted the testing went well with the pipes passing the pressure test. 7. PUBLIC WORKS UPDATE Les Burshten reported: • Summer projects are wrapping up . Irrigation lines are being winterized . Pine Tree Valley Trail will be paved tomorrow • The Pine Hiil Water Tower is scheduled to be cleaned 8. CITY COUNCIL UPDATE City Council Member Mark Grossklaus noted these meeting highlights: . Xcel Energy Staff attended in order to discuss power outages and the gas main replacement project . Budgetissues • TIF expansion s Presbyterian Homes . Ice Arena expansion 9. ENGINEER'S REPORT • Levitt indicated a presentation will take place at the South Washington Watershed District Board Meeting. • A large section of storm pipe was replaced at the new Holiday Gas Station on Grange Boulevard and also in Hamlet Park. A certified letter was sent to CP Rail today indicating they must remove items from the CP Rail/Lyman �umber site. CP Rail contracted with a company to excavate the Public Works Commission October 9, 2006 — Page 7 pond. The City was concerned about the materiai going into that pond and suggested it be lined. Rock was to be excavated with two feet of granulated fill to be used between the liner and the actual bedrock to act as a buffer. The area was over- excavated and reclaimed material was brought in. CP Ftail was not overly willing to remove it so were notified by certified mail of the required removal effective immediately or the City would do it for them. 10. COMMISSION COMMENTS AND REQUESTS 90 Street and Countv Road 19 Visibilitv Gary Kjellberg explained he was driving in the area of the above intersection and was going to take a left hand turn onto 90�" Street from County Road 19. He noted there's a new concrete divider and is concerned about the lack of lighting in the area. He noted there are signs, but you can't see them and there's no reflective material. He didn't know the road was divided until he was right up to it and suggested the area be illuminated at night or minimally, reflective signs be installed. Levitt stated the City can work with the county to see if they can put up some additionai lighting. Siqns on Trailwa� Gary Kjellberg noted there has been some vandalism to the map signs placed on the trail between indian Boulevard and 70`" Street. He suggested polycarbonate be used in place of glass on the signs. Grantinq of Variances bv the Citv Councii. Council Member Mark Grossklaus explained that some variances are granted due to instances such as irregular lot shape which perhaps should not have been platted in this way initially. In many cases side lots may be too narrow. Grossklaus commented that a recent variance request was denied when a resident on Lamar requested a lot split. The owner wished to have two homes in an area that wasn't large enough for two septic systems. Anderson stated one reason this commission wished for this issue to be discussed was because of the various requests listed in each month's Technicai Review packet. He commented, "for those of us that follow, we see requests approved and are not informed of the hardship." Maintenance of Traffic Signals Roger Finnegan inquired who does the maintenance (bulb changing, etc.) on city traffic signals. Burshten responded that the City of St. Paul typically takes care of that. He went on to state we have LED lights and most of these are supposed to last for ten years. Finnegan went on to say that the red left turn indicator on the traffic signal at Jamaica and East Point Douglas is not functioning properly. Public Works Commission October 9, 2006 — Page 8 11. FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS None noted. �� • :�iI_�' Motion to adjourn was made by Robert Dornsbach, seconded by Gary Kjeliberg. Meeting adjourned at 8:34 p.m. Respectfully submitted, i''atri,c.i.w Storlry