CC Minutes 2000 03 27CHANHASSEN CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
MARCH 27, 2000
Mayor Mancino called the meeting to order at 6:35 p.m. The meeting was opened with the Pledge to the
Flag.
COUNCILMEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Mancino, Councilman Labatt, Councilwoman Jansen,
Councilman Engel and Councilman Senn
STAFF PRESENT: Scott Botcher, Roger Knutson, Kate Aanenson, Cindy Kirchoff, Bob Generous,
Dave Hempel, Todd Hoffman, Todd Gerhardt, Bruce DeJong, Beth Hoiseth, and Sgt. Dave Potts
(Due to technical problems with the audio equipment, not all of the discussion was picked up by the
tape.)
APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
Councilman Senn stated he would like an update on the letter regarding TIF compliance.
Scott Botcher: I spoke to Mr. Beatty from Kennedy and Graven about the letter. It is the continuance of a
letter that we received previously regarding the Office of the State Auditor and TIF compliance issues.
And his recommendation was, there is an amount of time out there under the law, I believe it's 60 days...
response to it. And given the fact that there's legislation currently pending before the State House and the
Senate, I can give you an update on the legislation... His recommendation was that, and that's why it's not
on the agenda, simply wait until there's been some discussion and wait to see what happens...that may or
may not have an affect on the response... So I guess at this point I prefer to do it that way. There's no
pressure at this point right now to do anything.
Councilman Senn: So when does the 60 days...
Scott Botcher: I think it's receipt of the letter, but it might be the date of the letter. I'll check on that, but
at this point we're okay. Bottom line on the legislation, just to get down and dirty, we are into the Senate
Omnibus Tax Bill. We're not in the House Bill. I received a call today from.., do we may be going back
down to testify at that point. But it is in the Senate Bill.
Mayor Mancino: Okay, thank you.
Councilman Senn moved, Councilman Engel seconded to approve the agenda as presented. All voted
in favor and the motion carried.
PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENTS: None.
CONSENT AGENDA: Councilman Senn moved, Councilman Labatt seconded to approve the
following Consent Agenda items pursuant to the City Manager's recommendations:
a. Approve Contract for Roundhouse Renovation, Gary Hittle, Architect.
c. Approval of 2000/01 Liquor Licenses.
City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
d. Resolution #2000-23: Approval of Modifications to Tax Increment Financing District 3-1.
e. Approval of Bills.
f. Approval of Minutes: · City Council Minutes dated February 14, 2000
· City Council Work Session Minutes dated March 13, 2000
· City Council Minutes dated March 13, 2000 as amended on page 14, condition 36.
Receive Commission Minutes: · Planning Commission Minutes dated February 16, 2000
· Planning Commission Minutes dated March 1, 2000
g. Resolution #2000-24: Approve Resolution Regarding School District 112 Locating Schools in
the City of Chanhassen as amended, to read:
A RESOLUTION SUPPORTING SCHOOL DISTRICT 112 TO LOCATE SCHOOL
FACILITIES WITHIN THE CITY OF CHANHASSEN
Whereas, School District 112 is faced with increasing enrollments and a declining availability of
space to educate youth within the district; and
Whereas, School District 112 is current evaluating opportunities for the construction of multiple
facilities to meet these space requirements; and
Whereas, the population center and growth areas within the district are generally located within
the City of Chanhassen; and
Whereas, a great number of city residents located within District 112 have encouraged the city to
work with District 112 to facilitate the location of these facilities within the city; and
Whereas, City of Chanhassen taxpayers contributed a great amount of voter support and
subsequent tax dollars to the recent referendum to construct the middle school facilities in the City
of Chanhassen;
Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved that the Chanhassen City Council hereby strongly supports
School District 112's goal to locate their school facilities within the City of Chanhassen in order to
better serve current and future growth within the district. We will actively work with School
District 112 to explore options for partnerships.
Passed and adopted by the Chanhassen City Council this 27th day of March, 2000.
h. Resolution #2000-25: Approve Right-of-Way Acquisition Offers from MnDot for Parcels 216D
and 213 for West 78th Street Improvement Project No. 97-6.
All voted in favor and the motion carried unanimously.
City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
VISITOR PRESENTATION: None.
PUBLIC SAFETY UPDATE: PROJECT LEADFOOT.
Sgt. Dave Potts and Beth Hoiseth went over the details of Project Leadfoot with the Council.
Mayor Mancino: Any questions from council members?
Councilwoman Jansen: It really looks like a great program. Thank you for getting it all pulled together... I
have one question and it was early on when you were speaking about the different ways of actually
evaluating the problem areas and hearing the complaints from the residents and evaluating what's going on.
Do you have a mechanism in place where you might detect the problem before the complaints start to come
in as far as seeing that you've got, you know the speeders in a particular area of the city.
Sgt. Dave Potts answered Councilwoman Jansen's question.
Councilwoman Jansen: And maybe as the other neighborhoods become aware that now there's this new
program in place, because probably the Villager getting the word out on what happens on Pleasant View
Road. They'll now know that they have something they can come to the City and actually.., for that.
Mayor Mancino: ... you've got a three pronged approach here which is so wonderful and Steve has been
diligent and just has carried this all the way through so.
Steve Beddor got up and spoke to the City Council.
Mayor Mancino: And is the first meeting April 6th. Is that at your home? So we'll get some feedback on
how that goes. And this is kind of a test right of the pilot so we'll see how it goes and then make, fine tune
it after that .... And we really won't, I mean was it last June when the residents of Pleasant View came and
talked to the City Council. We really don't...not that we're trying to get out of it. But so we can be
proactive and they will come directly to you. It doesn't have to come to the City Council .... We love
giving it over to you, right. Thank you. Thank you so much. And you'll keep us kind of updated on how
it's going? Wonderful, thank you. Did anybody else here want to say anything about Project Leadfoot?
Any other comments as long as you've heard it for the first time. Bud, do you want to say anything about
Project Leadfoot?
Bud Olson addressed the City Council stating that this project was one of a first of it's kind in the State of
Minnesota and congratulated Sgt. Potts, Beth Hoiseth and Steve Beddor for their work on it.
Mayor Mancino: Thank you. Now the logo was one of the residents. And who was that Steve, if you
don't mind.
Steve Beddor gave the name of the resident who designed the logo for Project Leadfoot.
Mayor Mancino: Thank you so much. Next on the agenda is public hearings.
APPROVE RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE SUBMISSION OF AN OUTDOOR
RECREATION GRANT TO THE MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES
City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
FOR FUNDING ASSISTANCE FOR LAND ACQUISITION AND PARK IMPROVEMENTS
FOR PARK, RECREATION & OPEN SPACE PURPOSES.
Todd Hoffman: Mayor and City Council members and the audience. One of my goals each year is to
make application for various grants... However the funding pool for grants cycle this year are
extraordinarily low, but in the name of optimism I'm proposing two applications. I'm working with Mr.
Loren Gordon who is a resident of our community and works for Hoisington-Koegler... The projects that
were selected met two criteria. They are identified in the city's capital plan, or in our comprehensive plan
that we're talking about doing anyway, and we reviewed the past recipients and selected the project types
which scored high... The grants do require a 50% city cost share... The first project was the Bandimere
Park project for development of a park shelter to include concessions, restrooms, picnic room available for
public reservation and utility room. And then the addition of a playground. Secondly we proposed open
space acquisition within the Bluff Creek corridor.., two separate grant applications... The total cost of the
projects are $310,000 and $150,000 respectively, with the grant request of half those amounts for
$155,000 for Bandimere and $75,000 for Bluff Creek. The recommendation to the Council is that the City
Council approve the attached resolution authorizing the submission of an Outdoor Recreation Grant to the
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for Funding Assistance for Land Acquisition for park
improvements for park and recreation and open space purposes. The public hearing...
Mayor Mancino: Okay, thank you. Jim, do you want to say anything about it? Okay. This is a public
hearing. Does anyone wish to address the Council on this issue?
Scott Botcher: The question I have Todd is where in the capital plan are these projects now?
Todd Hoffman: You mean what year?
Scott Botcher: Yes.
Todd Hoffman: In the 5 year plan for Bandimere, both of them are down the road a ways.
Scott Botcher: So we'd be accelerating those...
Todd Hoffman: And the reason we selected those are because they scored high...
Mayor Mancino: And the Luigi Bernardi piece, is that just south of the Degler property?
Todd Hoffman: Yes. It's a large parcel. The site that we've identified... They're in Fund 410. It's
identified as...
Mayor Mancino: When will we find out?
Todd Hoffman: Next year.
Mayor Mancino: Next year when?
Todd Hoffman: The grant cycle for 2000 is over this spring...
Mayor Mancino: ... Thank you. Again I didn't see anyone wishing to address the council so let's, any
other discussion on this that council members have? I know that the Park and Rec Commission has always
City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
in their philosophy wanted to, or made sure that Park and Rec Department go for any grants, any matching
funds or whatever to have Todd and Jerry and his staff kind of look at that all the time for revenue to
acquire open space or to help in our active fields, etc. So I'm glad you found this. May I have a motion
please.
Councilwoman Jansen: Move approval.
Councilman Engel: I'll second it.
Resolution #2000-26: Councilwoman Jansen moved, Councilman Engel seconded that the City
Council approve the attached resolution authorizing the submission of an Outdoor Recreation Grant
to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for Funding Assistance for Land Acquisition and
Park Improvements for Park, Recreation and Open Space Purposes. All voted in favor and the
motion carried unanimously.
REMAND MARSH GLEN PROJECT TO PLANNING COMMISSION.
Cindy Kirchoff: Thank you. On March 13th you tabled the Marsh Glen proposal for 60 days... Since that
time the applicant has... Thank you.
Mayor Mancino: And fees will be waived...
Kate Aanenson: Yes...
Mayor Mancino: Does the applicant want to say anything? You're here tonight. I mean you don't have
to, but if you'd like to because you're here. You know we don't want you to come and not have an
opportunity to speak. Thank you. Any discussion? Any questions from council members? Then may I
have a motion?
Councilman Senn moved, Councilman Engel seconded to remand the Marsh Glen project to the
Planning Commission for review contingent upon the applicant giving a 60 day extension. All voted
in favor and the motion carried unanimously.
CONSIDER REQUEST FROM CHANHASSEN ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION
ADVERTISEMENT SIGNS~ BANDIMERE PARK.
Todd Hoffman: Thank you Mayor Mancino, members of the City Council. The 2000-2004 capital
improvement program designates a $60,000 creative playground project for Bandimere Park. The plan, at
least as it is now, is that the City contribute half of that and the other half would be... Chanhassen Athletic
Association, Chan/Chaska Soccer Club, and the Tonka United Soccer Association. The response... The
Chanhassen Athletic Association, Frank Scott is here... Frank Scott discussed this proposal with the Park
and Recreation Commission at their February 22nd meeting. The commission was supportive of the
proposal. However, they did not take a vote on it... I have had discussions with the City Attorney's
office...
Mayor Mancino: Just one question I have before they do. Now with this proposal, does that mean that the
City does not contribute the $30,000? That they are through this they will generate enough funds to pay
for the $60,000 creative playground project so the City does not have to pay.
City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
Todd Hoffman: ... When I asked the Association, what they're proposing as a city is that.., send out three
letters to each...
Mayor Mancino: And what is...that's when we buy the playground?
Todd Hoffman: ... That question is going to come back...
Mayor Mancino: Thank you. Another question Todd.
Councilman Senn asked a question.
Mayor Mancino: It won't be tied to any sort of advertising revenue.
Councilman Senn made a comment regarding this item.
Todd Hoffman: ...use of ball fields, soccer fields...
Councilwoman Jansen: When we say cost sharing, the cost of the signs or maintaining the new signs?
Mayor Mancino: Any other questions? Thank you. Mr. Scott.
Frank Scott: I'm Frank Scott. I'm from the Chanhassen Athletic Association. I'll just start with...we're
a non-profit organization... We don't have a very good... We operate like a business that...
Mayor Mancino: Any questions for Frank? Okay, thank you.
Jim Manders from the Park and Recreation Commission spoke about the commission's position on this
item.
Mayor Mancino: Jim did you, in thinking about this, with this project, did you as a commission set up any
criteria for the, if somebody else came in... did you kind of talk about it comprehensively in the city?
Jim Manders: Certainly there were questions asked regarding.., how that would be taken care of... sort of
wait and see. To address your question about discussion, I don't recall that we got around...
Mayor Mancino: Thank you. Is there anyone here tonight, I mean this isn't really a public hearing, buy
anybody who would like to... offer their two cents in. Okay, bring it back to council. Any discussion?
Councilman Labatt made a comment supporting this project.
Councilman Engel supported the project also but would like to see conformity in the signage.
Councilwoman Jansen: I agree. I think it actually could add some character. The one thing I did forget to
ask, it's a short period of time that these go up for just the season, correct? May through, what was the
end?
Kate Aanenson: October.
City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
Councilwoman Jansen: So as you were to take policy together, you would also maybe address.., because I
did like the idea of drafting a policy...
Mayor Mancino: Okay, Councilman Senn.
Councilman Senn gave his comments on this item.
Mayor Mancino: I have some concerns about it. Some of my concerns from.., standpoint. Older
neighborhoods who have lived there for a long time adjacent to it and have... I also have concerns policy
wise at the other parks and what.., so I'd just like to see Park and Rec Commission think about that.., so
that could be part of the policy that...With that may I have a motion?
Councilman Engel: Move approval.
Councilwoman Jansen: Do we want to... a little bit, do you want a friendly amendment since you moved
approval?
Councilman Engel: Sure.
Councilwoman Jansen: Can we add after Chan Athletic Association and draft a policy for the provisions of
the ballfield fence sign fundraising program. Add to that the notification to the neighborhood as it goes
back to the Park and Rec... and draft a policy.
Mayor Mancino: Yeah I was going to say that I think the neighborhood should have a public hearing.
Councilwoman Jansen: ... and draft policy. Then the neighbors have something to come in and comment
on.
Mayor Mancino: Because why would you want to do a contract.
Councilman Labatt made a comment at this point in the discussion.
Mayor Mancino: ... kind of parallel track doing the policy.., policy and presenting it to the Park and Rec
Commission at their next meeting and... And when does the ball season start? Is there any way that you
could have a special Park and Rec Commission meeting at the beginning of April versus at the end of
April? Change the time. Would that be a problem for you?
Todd Hoffman stated that could be done.
Mayor Mancino: I want to make sure that you understand what's being said and you feel that it can be
done .... and also into the Springfield Addition. The Lundgren development. Yeah, all the residents
around there. Lake Riley Boulevard and etc. Yeah, use the operative word here.
Todd Hoffman made a statement at this point.
Mayor Mancino: ... go ahead and probably at the same time Frank can kind of go out and start talking,
spreading the word with people. Now do we need to say anything about, the only thing, the other thing that
I heard council people say was the uniformity of size of the signs, etc. Just taking that back to the Park and
Rec Commission. Now, Councilman Engel do you accept this friendly amendment?
City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
Councilman Engel: Well I think it'd be better to repeat. How's that?
Mayor Mancino: That would be wonderful.
Councilman Engel: And maybe we don't need to...
Mayor Mancino: So we have a new motion.
Councilman Engel: I authorize staff to negotiate a contract with the Chanhassen Athletic Association for
the provision of a ballfield fence sign fundraising program at Bandimere Park and to notify neighbors
abutting the park and to draft a policy for installing and storing signage.
Councilwoman Jansen: Second.
Councilman Engel moved, Councilwoman Jansen seconded that the City Council authorize staff to
negotiate a contract with the Chanhassen Athletic Association for the provision of a ballfield fence
sign fundraising program at Bandimere Park, to notify the neighbors abutting Bandimere Park, and
to draft a policy regarding the installation and storing of the signs. All voted in favor, except
Councilman Senn who opposed and the motion carried with a vote of 4 to 1.
APPEAL DECISION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION FOR A VARIANCE FROM THE 5
FOOT BLUFF SETBACK FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF AN ADDITION~ 7501 ERIE
AVENUE~ DENNIS FISHER.
Cindy Kirchoff: Thank you. The applicant is requesting a variance from the 5 foot bluff protection
setback for the construction of a garage... On March 15th of this year the Planning Commission reviewed
the design and variance request. The applicant has appealed that decision. The existing home is located...
Staff does not support the variance... However should the Council approve the request, staff has prepared
conditions...
Mayor Mancino: Thank you very much. Any questions for staff at this point?
Councilwoman Jansen: No.
Mayor Mancino: I have one and that is, will the increase of the impervious surface by adding the three car
garage, will it cause any further erosion of the bluff as you're adding more water going down?
Cindy Kirchoff: No...
Mayor Mancino: Is the applicant here and would you like to address the council. Please state your name
and address.
Dennis Fisher: Thank you. My name is Dennis Fisher. I live at, will be living at 7501 Erie Avenue.
Thank you for letting me appeal this. I guess I just want to say I wholeheartedly agree with the ordinance.
Certainly want to protect the bluff line and want to ensure that no further damage is done to it. I guess we
wanted to look at the intent of the ordinance which is just to protect the bluff line from development and
water runoff towards the lake. What we're asking for is a caveat to the existing ordinance as to older
homes that are presently on the bluff... The last meeting that we had, the comment was made about
City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
regarding the existing driveway and it's just my opinion that this would exacerbate the steepness of the
driveway. It is, the present drive is 10 feet below the existing cul-de-sac and with snow on it and, I just
love to snow however. When you can't get out and do that, the driveway is very steep and this would also
require the regarding of it to make it even that much more... The other statement was made about not
conforming. This is a very distinctive home and I don't know what could be made more. It's just a very
distinctive home. We'd like to spend our own dollars and make this acceptable to the neighborhood and I
believe it would improve rather than cause any further damage to the bluff line. Certainly it would protect
the home and the present condition, the home is in dire situation. Water, back water flow against the
foundations are causing it to erode. I think you've all seen it so I think anything else I would say would be
redundant but do you have any questions?
Mayor Mancino: Any questions for the applicant?
Councilwoman Jansen: No.
Mayor Mancino: Thank you very much. Bringing this back to council. Councilman Senn.
Councilman Senn made his comments on this request.
Mayor Mancino: You mean not add any more impervious surface?
Councilman Senn responded to Mayor Mancino's question.
Mayor Mancino: Which makes me bring up, Cindy did you say that if we decide to go ahead with the
variance, you had some conditions?
Cindy Kirchoff: Yes, they're located on page 6 of the staff report...
Mayor Mancino: Oh, motion should the City Council. Okay, I got it. Thank you. Councilwoman Jansen.
Councilwoman Jansen: I would agree with what Councilman Senn shared as far as not increasing the
impervious surface. I'm usually one that of course wants to protect the bluff lines but the house is out over
this bluff line as it is. So I think again as the applicant said, the purpose has already been really affected as
to the bluff ordinance. I believe though it was within the Planning Commission minutes where they
mentioned that maybe you need to do an amendment to the bluff ordinance that maybe specifically says in
instances like this where there is an existing home in the bluff, if the addition is being placed on the non
bluff side, street side of the home, that that would be acceptable. Under these conditions I do find that
acceptable.
Mayor Mancino: Councilman Engel.
Councilman Engel: Homeowners first...
Mayor Mancino: Oh, we're going to go to task on that someday you know.
Councilman Labatt made his comments on this item.
Mayor Mancino: Okay, thanks. I have nothing more to add. May I have a motion please.
City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
Councilman Senn made the motion with an additional condition number 5 regarding preserving the property
along the south property line in it's natural state.
Mayor Mancino: Is there a second to the motion?
Councilman Labatt: Second.
Councilman Senn moved, Councilman Labatt seconded that the City Council approve the variance
request (VAR #2000-2) from the 5 foot bluff protection setback for the construction of an addition
subject to the following conditions:
The addition shall be located as shown on the plans prepared on March 2, 2000 by RLK-Kuusisto,
Ltd.
2. The applicant shall work with staff in the final alignment of the storm drainage pipe.
The grading plan shall be revised to maintain drainage in a sheet flow versus a swale around the
west side of the structure.
The applicant shall provide a grading, drainage and erosion control plan prior to building permit
issuance.
Staff will outline along the south property line the area which is to be left in it's natural vegetative
state.
All voted in favor and the motion carried unanimously.
Mayor Mancino: That one stipulation which I'm assuming Mr. Fisher you had no problems with keeping
that south natural? Okay, thank you. Thanks for coming.
REQUEST FOR A WETLAND ALTERATION PERMIT TO EXCAVATE APPROXIMATELY
6,000 SQ. FT. OF WETLAND AND FILLING APPROXIMATELY 600 SQ. FT. OF WETLAND
ACCESS TO LAKESHORE, 7310 KURVERS POINT ROAD, MARILYN & DANIEL
BOECKERMANN.
Kate Aanenson presented the staff report on this item.
Mayor Mancino: Any questions for staff at this point? Is the applicant here and would you like to address
the council?
Rob Merila: ... my name is Rob Merila... and basically what the project entails is doing a bit of an
improvement to the area, the wetland is reed canary grass and what I've noticed is that the reed canary
grass tends to be a lower.., opening up some areas in the reed canary grass to a deeper water area that will
provide more diverse habitat.., so that's one of the things. And I did some checking into the issue about
the... There is some concerns about.., and I contacted two representatives from the Department of Natural
Resources... by the name of Ceil Strauss who represents Carver County... and she said that she didn't
believe that there would be a problem with the excavation as to... One of the reasons was.., and the depth
that they talk about here is an 8 foot depth... The question about a seal being broken is a valid question...
Under certain circumstances... If that area is excavated, the... However this situation here is quite different
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City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
and as long as the water.., here we're 5 feet at or above where most the excavation will take place... The
second point with the excavated area here is that that would provide additional water quality.., the water as
it flows into the lake...
Mayor Mancino: Okay, thank you Rob. Any questions?
Councilwoman Jansen: Actually I have one. One of the things, I don't know what it's called. We had an
attachment in our packet that was basically talking about the excavated pond and one of the statements in
there was that wetlands restored by reducing drainage are always preferable to dug outs, and I know as
we've been addressing some of the situations for restoration in the Bluff Creek Watershed, we've talked
about raising water levels. Is there an opportunity here to actually, if you would, stop the flow in order to
back the water up in this area and not so dramatically affect every one along the way, but I was just
wondering if that was an option for making more open water here versus the dug out.
Rob Merila: That might be a possibility...
Councilwoman Jansen: And I believe when our ex-Water Resource Coordinator was talking about these
restoration areas, he was also talking about doing a burning of the reed canary grass as the water was then
being raised, so I don't know what difference that makes in the area too then.
Rob Merila: ...part of the restoration...
Councilwoman Jansen: Okay, thank you.
Mayor Mancino: And when you do do native plants you do need to do the burning cyclically.
Rob Merila: Right. That's in the plan...
Mayor Mancino: Thank you. Any other questions?
There was discussion between Councilman Senn and Rob Merila at this point.
Mayor Mancino: And when they did come to the Planning Commission and talk about that. And asked, so
I'm assuming that they're being addressed.
There was discussion between councilmembers at this point that was not picked up on tape.
Dean Carlson, who is the realtor selling this property, commented that this improvement to the property
would greatly help in being able to market and sell the property. The property has been for sale for a
considerable amount of time and he believes the proposal by the Boeckermann's is a good one that will
enhance the value of the property.
Mayor Mancino: Would the applicant please come forward. State your name and address.
Dan Boeckermann: Dan Boeckermann, Marilyn and I are the applicants. We currently live across 101 in
Eden Prairie and would like to move to Chanhassen. The plan as you described it there, there is an access
down in the commons area. You have to go, if you're familiar with the area, you have to go up to a little
bridge over the wetlands.., out into the wetlands area, all the way along the beach past the common area to
get to the lake frontage that's available there... It's kind of an unusual layout because it's got wetlands and
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City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
then right at the beach it's got a raised area where I live where the previous owners had a dock and they've
always had the access through the commons area. And I guess our interest is having our own access to that
high land on the water part. And we've tried to do it, we've hired Rob and asked him to work with the city
in trying to come up with a plan that would protect the quality there and also give us something that has
some aesthetic value too, and still have our own access. Personally I went out there last fall when we were
looking at it initially. I walked not only the wetlands but went into the lake and walked around the lake
along the shoreline there and the part where we've got the bridge planned is currently where the water
drains out. There is a small area there right now that's about that wide and probably... And our thought is
that if we can expand the.., we'd have to determine how much bridge we would actually need yet to leave
enough room to have it drain properly, but the area that was draining.., area where the water goes
currently. But the main reason we'd like to have our own private access to the...
Mayor Mancino: Can I ask one question? Kate, according to the staff report, page 3 of the Planning
Commission, Phillip says that this, using the conditions that we have put down.., and Wetland Conservation
Act as far as restoration. So what we're doing is consistent with our established city policy and Wetland
Conservation Act, correct?
Kate Aanenson provided the answer to the question.
Councilman Engel stated he supported this request due to the support by the wetland specialist.
Councilwoman Jansen: My hesitation with this one is how interrelated this piece of wetland is with
everyone else's properties and what we were saying as far as the topography being somewhat flat. To now
be impacting a piece of this in the same regard as we don't want to raise the water level, I get a little
concerned with just affecting a part of what is the entire complex. It may not be a A quality wetland, but I
do think from reading the neighbors comments in the minutes, they seem to value the way their property is
currently. And I hesitate to then, for one come in and do this heavy excavation and the affect it will have
on even the upland wooded area. Because there will be a great deal of clearing that would have to be done
to bring the excavation equipment down close enough to do the work, so that was one of my concerns and I
realize that the Planning Commission tried to address that with the tree preservation comment. But I see
this as a major impact to an area where there are already existing homes who are already valuing the area
as it is. And it is a big impact right next to their properties and interconnected. If there wasn't this existing
alternative, and I realize it would probably be nicer to have a direct path out to the dock area, but I was a
little surprised when I walked out just how convenient it was having the Association bridge already there
and I realize this is personal opinion but it's almost an island configuration is how I was thinking of this
walk across then the high land, then the dock that's already there. So realizing that it's really the path, then
the necessity and there's also an alternative to putting that in more directly, I just hesitate to impact this
area that dramatically since it isn't just .... for one property. It's one property.., but it is one big wetland
complex.
Councilman Labatt provided his comments on this issue.
Mayor Mancino: Would you please come forward so we can get you on tape.
Dan Boeckermann: Trying to respond to that. The plan is to use the ground that's excavated to build the
berm. Now if there's excess or shortage, my guess is based on what's being proposed... The other thought
is to...
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City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
Councilman Senn stated his objections to this project, but since he lives in this neighborhood and is a part
of the Homeowners Association he would not be voting on this item. He would be abstaining from the
vote.
Mayor Mancino: Kate, would you talk a little bit about the neighborhood. What they perceive ....
boardwalk that others have done.
Staff responded to Mayor Mancino's question.
Mayor Mancino: Well that's what I was going to ask. Going back to when the development of Kurvers
Point was done because we have... Well let's, can I have a motion please.
Councilwoman Jansen: I'll move the City Council denies Wetland Alteration Permit #00-1.
Mayor Mancino: Is there a second?
Councilman Labatt: Second.
Councilwoman Jansen moved, Councilman Labatt seconded that the City Council denies Wetland
Alteration Permit #00-1. Councilwoman Jansen and Councilman Labatt voted in favor of the motion.
Mayor Mancino and Councilman Engel voted in opposition to the motion. Councilman Senn
abstained. The motion failed with a tie vote of 2 to 2.
The City Attorney recommended that the City Council direct staff to prepare Findings of Fact to bring back
at the next City Council meeting on this item.
Mayor Mancino: And the motion fails and we will have Findings of Fact. Thank you.
REQUEST FOR SITE PLAN REVIEW FOR TWO RETAIL BUILDINGS; BUILDING A
HAVING 23,607 SQ. FT. AND BUILDING B HAVING 7,800 SQ. FT; LOTS 1 AND 2, BLOCK
WEST VILLAGE HEIGHTS 3R~ ADDITION; LOCATED ON THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF
WEST 78TM STREET AND POWERS BOULEVARD INTERSECTION, T.F. JAMES
COMPANY.
Bob Generous presented the staff report on this item.
Mayor Mancino: ... where the dock would be on that east side. There is a loading dock.
Bob Generous: It'd actually be to the rear of the site.
Mayor Mancino: Any other questions? ... so the people on the south side... Is the applicant here and would
you like to address council?
Charlie James presented the site plan for an Office Max building and a retail Building B and went over the
specifics of the plan.
Mayor Mancino: Any other questions right now?
Councilmembers had some questions for the applicant and then gave their comments on the project.
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City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
Councilwoman Jansen: First I have to say it's the best looking Office Max I think I've ever seen. So
having seen enough of these buildings I appreciate all the effort that you obviously had to put in to get us
this good looking Office Max to go on this comer. And Building B seems to have a great deal of character
to it also, so I am liking... You'll probably hear me echo exactly what you've heard from staff that they
were pushing and pulling and tugging and trying to make this west elevation look a little bit more
appealing.., entryway into our downtown. I can certainly appreciate that you've already added the one
window on the comer for the comer appeal and all the additional landscaping certainly helps break up the
mass of that side of the building. I think it was Mr. James pointed it out in the Planning Commission
meeting, he followed code and our ordinances and certainly meets all of those and he went beyond and staff
pushed and pulled and tugged and we can appreciate what they put all of you through in order to
accomplish our goals so thank you for that .... additional changes I guess just bringing the different
constraints that you've had to work with and the ones that you've mentioned here this evening. I'm
comfortable with this.., can't manage to negotiate the other little things along the west or the south side,
because I also hesitated about that south side elevation not actually being the entry, but I realize that it's
that configuration.., so I'll keep my comments to that.
Councilman Senn provided his comments on this project.
Councilman Engel provided his comments on this project.
Councilman Labatt provided his comments on this project.
Mayor Mancino: Thank you...putting it all together. I have a few...I agreed with most of what, other
council people said. Council persons. Let me start with the north side. More landscaping on the north
side. Deciduous, coniferous trees .... On the west elevation definitely more articulation because people are
going to be going down Powers. They look north on Highway 5... I'd like to pull the building down...
What I'm concerned about, and what you'll probably come back and say is, you lose parking spaces
because of that but I'd like you to look at that. In fact Kate do we have, is the parking for the building
adequate? Is it more than adequate than what our ordinance states?
Kate Aanenson responded that the parking met city code.
Mayor Mancino: ... but there are more than enough for our ordinance? Okay .... Charlie, you want to
come up and talk about that? Pulling the building forward.
Charlie James explained to the Council all the different configurations that his firm had gone through to
come up with this final site plan that was being submitted.
Mayor Mancino: Come on Charlie. We're just trying to give you display windows for Office Max
because.., put equipment and everything. We thought you'd like to have some more windows on that south
side so when people drive by they see... Okay, good.
Charlie James continued his presentation of the site plan layout and Kate Aanenson explained what site
layouts staff had gone over with the applicant.
Mayor Mancino: Can you also talk about pulling the building south at all... You said that you had gone
through that. Just real briefly.
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City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
Charlie James explained the consequences of locating the buildings farther south on the site.
Mayor Mancino: I was looking at the Office Max...
There were comments made by council members not picked up on the tape.
Councilwoman Jansen: Are we towards the deadline?
Mayor Mancino: Do we have any problems Kate with timing?
Kate Aanenson responded to the timing question.
Scott Botcher: ... but I think that certainly at this point it's not out of line...
Mayor Mancino: Well I also think that in our Highway 5 corridor, architectural design standards, there is
an area that would.., if you can visually give it to us. Okay.
Charlie James stated that he would like a decision from the City Council on this item tonight.
Councilwoman Jansen: I'm going to make a motion that the City Council approves Site Plan #97-6, plans
prepared by James R. Hill Inc. dated 1/28/2000 subject to the following conditions per the staff report 1
through 32. Adding, I don't think I heard Mr. James take objection to the evergreens. Adding point
number 33 to work with staff to add evergreen material along the north side within that landscaping...
Mayor Mancino: Is there a second?
Councilman Engel asked how tall the trees were on the north side.
There was discussion at this point not picked up on the tape.
Mayor Mancino: Charlie, how tall are the trees.
Councilman Engel: That's all I want to know. Just asking.
Charlie James stated that he could not tell how tall they were from the plans.
Mayor Mancino: So what, an inch and a half caliper or something?
There was discussion at this point between the applicant and City Council that was not picked up on tape
regarding the height of the trees on the plan.
Mayor Mancino: I know and he's just asking what is code requirements on there. Are they 6 feet?
Okay... so they're 6 foot trees and a bigger caliper on the western elevation. And what...
Councilman Labatt made a comment at this point in the discussion.
Councilman Senn made a comment at this point in the discussion.
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City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
Councilman Engel: ... Charlie's said yes there is break-up in the side of the building.., deciduous trees that
are a little bit bigger to help break up... regardless of the shadows. We're having problems visualizing...
Mayor Mancino: Okay, so we have a motion on the floor and Linda made it and she also added 33. To
work with staff to add evergreen materials to the north side. Is there any condition in here that talks about
Bob, I'm sorry Linda to take your motion.., about making the trees that are on the existing landscape plan
on the west side...
Bob Generous responded to Mayor Mancino's question.
Mayor Mancino: So it's your motion...
Councilwoman Jansen: How about if we just say to increase, because we're just saying, how did you word
that? To use larger caliper trees. So if, larger caliper deciduous and.., and taller coniferous.
Councilman Senn made a comment at this point in the discussion.
Councilwoman Jansen: If I'm hearing correctly though he meets code and ordinance.
Mayor Mancino: So did the wetlands. The last thing... Okay, so finish your motion and then we'll decide.
Councilwoman Jansen: It's finished.
Mayor Mancino: Okay, so what was number 9. Keep it as is?
Councilwoman Jansen: The larger caliper, I'm sorry. Larger caliper deciduous and taller coniferous.
Mayor Mancino: Is there a second to the motion?
Councilman Engel: I'll second it.
There was some additional discussion on clarification of the motion.
Councilwoman Jansen: Per staff, condition 32. The applicant shall work with the city staff to create the
entrance design for this location which may include the granting of an easement to locate a city monument
on the site. The proposed design must be submitted to City Council for approval. No. Staff had asked
during the work session, correct that we use.., condition.
Councilman Senn asked for clarification on this condition.
Councilwoman Jansen: It doesn't say anything about a sign.
Mayor Mancino: ...the only thing that I would add in 9 is that in addition to what Councilwoman Jansen
said, I would just add western, northern and the south side in this area so it's a little larger trees. Little
taller coniferous...
Council members had discussion regarding this amendment.
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City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
Councilwoman Jansen: I would be in favor of dropping more to the south... If the building is set down
from the hill.
Mayor Mancino: Okay, we'll just say no to the friendly amendment. Just say no to the friendly
amendment. Okay, the motion stands as is.
Councilwoman Jansen moved, Councilman Engel seconded that the City Council approve Site Plan
#97-6, plans prepared by James R. Hill, Inc., dated 1/28/00, subject to the following conditions:
1. The applicant shall enter into a site plan agreement with the City and provide the necessary security to
guarantee erosion control, site restoration and landscaping.
The proposed lighting will be consistent with the lighting used at West Village Center, dark bronze
anodized with square heads. Lighting shall use shielded fixtures and be directed away from public
right-of-way and adjacent residential property. Sufficient lighting shall be provided to illuminate all
areas of the parking lot to provide adequate levels of safety. To minimize off-site impacts, light levels
as measured at the property line, shall not exceed one-half foot candle.
Wall signs shall not exceed five percent of the total area of the east and south elevations of Building A
and five percent of the south elevation of Building B. Staff has calculated the sign area for building A
as follows: east elevation based on 3,735 square feet permitted sign area of 187 square feet; and south
elevation based on 4,351 square feet permitted sign area 217 square feet. A separate sign permit
application shall be required for all signage.
4. The western portion of the south parking lot for Office Max shall be used to create an artistic feature
including sculptures, fountains, benches, gazebo, etc.
5. All roof mounted equipment shall be screened from views from the public right-of-ways.
The applicant shall revise proposed landscape plan to meet minimum landscape ordinance
requirements. In addition, the landscaping along the western and northern sides of the building shall
use larger caliper deciduous and taller coniferous trees to help soften the long expanses of relatively
blank wall areas.
7. The applicant shall work with staff to revise landscape island configurations in order to meet provide
acceptable space for plant growth.
The applicant and/or contractor shall notify the City Engineer upon encountering any existing drain tile
on the site. The City Engineer will determine whether or not the drain tile can be abandoned or
relocated.
Additional erosion control fence (Type I) shall be installed along the westerly property line. Erosion
control measures shall be in place and maintained at all times until the site has been fully restored and
revegetated and the City authorizes removal.
10. The applicant shall obtain and receive the necessary permits from the regulatory agencies such as the
Watershed District, Carver County Highway Department, and Chanhassen Building Department.
11. The proposed watermain connection between the lots shall be deleted.
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City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
12. If earthwork material is to be hauled to or from the site, the applicant shall submit to City staff the
designated haul routes and traffic control signage plan for approval prior to hauling activities
commencing. The applicant will be required to maintain haul routes and clean the streets of any dirt
and mud accumulated from vehicles tracking. Any damage to City streets, curbs or other public
facilities will be the responsibility of the applicant. Hauling earthwork material east along West 78th
Street through the downtown will not be permitted. All construction vehicles shall access the site from
a designated location along West 78th Street.
13. The existing boulevard trees along West 78th Street shall be preserved/protected from construction
activities. If any city boulevard trees need to be relocated as a result of site improvements they shall be
transplanted or replaced in kind in a location designated by the City Forester. The applicant shall be
responsible for replacement of any boulevard tree that does not survive for up to one year after the
certificate of occupancy has been issued.
14. The applicant shall be responsible for adjustments to the City's utilities systems, streets, sidewalk,
street lights and boulevard impacted by the site improvements. The applicant shall apply for and
obtain a permit for construction in right of way for work performed within West 78th Street right of
way. A financial security in the form of a letter of credit or cash escrow in the amount of $10,000 will
be required to guarantee boulevard restoration.
15. The applicant shall submit a detailed traffic control plan to the City for review and approval prior to
issuance of a building permit.
16. Retaining walls in excess of four feet in height shall be engineered and separate building permits
obtained.
17. A cross-access and maintenance agreement shall be prepared by the applicant and recorded against
both parcels.
18. The applicant shall pay full park and trail fees pursuant to City Ordinance.
19. The buildings are required to be protected with an automatic fire extinguishing system.
20. The east wall of building B must be one-hour fire-resistive construction where it is closer than 20 feet
to the property line.
21. Each building must be provided with one access aisle for accessible parking that is a minimum of eight
feet wide.
22. A ten foot clear space must be maintained around fire hydrants, i.e., street lamps, trees, shrubs, bushes,
NSP, US West Cable TV and transformer boxes. This is to ensure that fire hydrants can be quickly
located and safely operated by firefighters. Pursuant to Chanhassen City Ordinance 9-1.
23. Referencing the 23,607 square foot building, the fire department sprinkler connection must be located
near the main entrance to the store. Contact the Fire Marshall for exact location.
24. The P. I. V. shall be equipped with electronic tamper device.
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City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
25. Fire sprinkler design shall be submitted for review and approval. It must be designed for high piled
storage.
26. Comply with Chanhassen Fire Department Policy regarding fire department's notes to be included on
all site plans. Pursuant to Chanhassen Fire Department Policy #04-1991.
27. Contact Chanhassen Fire Marshall for exact location of fire lane signs and curbing to be painted
yellow. Pursuant to Section 904-1 1997 Uniform Fire Code.
28. Comply with Chanhassen Fire Department policy regarding premise identification. Submit plans to the
Fire Marshall for review of building identification. Pursuant to Chanhassen Fire Department/Fire
Prevention Division policy #29-1992."
29. The applicant shall work with city staff to create the entrance design for this location, which may
include the granting of an easement to locate a city monument on the site. The proposed design must
be submitted to City Council for approval.
30. The applicant shall work with city staff to add additional evergreens along the north side of the site
within the landscaping plan.
All voted in favor, except Mayor Mancino and Councilman Senn who opposed, and the motion
carried with a vote of 3 to 2.
Charlie James made some final comments regarding the landscaping plan.
REQUEST FOR SITE PLAN REVIEW FOR A 13~117 SQ. FT. EXPANSION TO A 9~161 SQ. FT.
BUILDING; LOT 2~ BLOCK 1~ CHANHASSEN BUSINESS CENTER 2m~ ADDITION~ 8360
COMMERCE DRIVE~ HIGHLAND DEVELOPMENT.
Bob Generous presented the staff report on this item. Dave Hempel clarified condition number 2 per the
applicant's request.
Mayor Mancino: Thank you. Any questions for staff? The applicant, would you like to address the
Council? You don't have to.
Dave Obee, the applicant, discussed his proposal with the City Council.
Mayor Mancino: Thank you. Any comments from council members? Can I have a motion please?
Councilman Senn moved, Councilman Labatt seconded that the City Council approves Site Plan #95-
11 (File 2), as shown on the plans prepared by Martin Woody Architects, dated January 26, 2000,
and subject to the following conditions:
The applicant shall plan four (4) evergreens north of the proposed addition and one deciduous tree west
of the proposed addition. Existing trees shall be protected by tree fencing during construction. No
existing trees shall be removed. If so, they will be replaced at a rate of 2:1 diameter inches.
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City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
The applicant shall work with city staff to determine the amount of fill material that may be placed
over the City's storm water pipe or within the City's 20 foot wide drainage and utility easement north
of the building.
3. Wall mounted lights shall be shielded from direct off site view.
4. The addition is required to be protected with an automatic fire extinguishing system.
5. Two accessible parking spaces are required and the access aisle must be 8 feet wide.
6. The applicant shall enter into a site plan agreement with the City and provide the necessary security to
guarantee erosion control, site restoration and landscaping.
7. The present storage bins or trailers that are on the site shall be removed upon completion of the
addition, and they may not be used again on the premises without prior city approval.
All voted in favor and the motion carried unanimously.
WORK PLAN 2000~ CITY OF CHANHASSEN AND CARVER COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE.
Bud Olson and Dave Potts were present from the Carver County Sheriff's Department to discuss this item
with the City Council.
Bud Olson: ... I appreciate the opportunity to be here Mayor and Council. We've been working diligently
on this work direction that you've given us for the work plan for the city and Scott, Dave and I have met
and we've talked to staff on both ends and tried to come up with something that we felt would be a start
anyway as far as what you do on the work plan...ideas of where the sheriff's contract is going. And so I'm
not going to go into a lot of the details other than just to say that we think this is workable. You know
sometimes you have to crawl before you walk... Dave getting out there and just getting his feet on the
ground. This has been... I think we hit our target line as far as trying to get it done this first quarter of the
year. With that I think that there's been, a couple of minor adjustments to my initial proposal and maybe
those are just grammatical changes.., but if you can, I don't know if you have any specific questions for
Dave or I but I'd be happy to talk about them with you.
Mayor Mancino: Any questions from council?
Councilman Labatt had some questions for Sheriff Olson.
Bud Olson: Mayor and council members, that was probably an oversight. We can include other types
of...
Mayor Mancino: You know Dave that was the other thing I was just going to add to under Businesses.
That maybe there be a database started that also shows what businesses have special needs. I mean
somebody may have some concerns, if you can check with them periodically about after 11:00 at night
they've noticed certain patterns or something.
Dave Potts responded to the Mayor's request.
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City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
Bud Olson: When you get more commercial like you're looking at loading docks at different locations,
residents start calling.., compliance checks. That's a time when we can bring a lot of those businesses in
and talk about.., more specific issues. Night managers don't usually work days and so when they get
pulled into these meetings they have a different perspective on the business. What happens to their
property at night versus during...
Scott Botcher: Here's the thing that I'd ask you to consider. At some point as we deal with developing a
base line, a quantifiable data.., you will, as I said in my memo, have to start making, should start making
interpretations.., what these trends mean and in the law enforcement public safety... And a lot of it comes
down to basic stats... Does that mean you have 50% more speeders? Do we have 50% less speeders
because you're enforcing more or...just doing a better job. So as we develop data, it can mean different
things as you look at these reports.., and I always look at the year to date criminal, non-criminal stuff. The
non-criminal.., is up around 100 calls.., break out and see what it is. Try to tell myself not to interpret too
much by that... We have for example, it's been a good year...traffic, miscellaneous, miscellaneous non-
criminal. Those type of things.., yeah, it's doubled.
Bud Olson: See one incident could drive that number and that's why it's really hard to interpret.
Scott Botcher: Thefts are down 32%. So that's a good trend line but.., smarter criminals or Dave and
Bud, right? I don't know.
Bud Olson: I think it's all the positive press.
Scott Botcher: So those are.., because our goal is, when we start coming up with identifiable criteria to
measure, that we have pulled off.., starting going into it and I guess I just wanted you to... We don't have
that trend line to measure, and even if we did, we have a nice...
Bud Olson: Mayor and Council, I can speak to Scott's issue a little bit is, in some of the other
communities, in the larger cities what they try to do is take a look at, what serious crimes you have and
they do community service. They look at what the need identifies as their key issues. What drives fear...
One thing that a lot of other communities do is after so many contacts they'll send out a survey. Like for
every report we do we send out a survey note to that victim or complainant and ask then you know, how
was our service? Did we do well? Were your needs met and that's how some police agencies calculate
whether they're getting the good service out to the community and.., so there are different things. One thing
that I am definitely looking for some help with and we talked about this is, is this concept of input or
participation and while we make sure we look at it on a case by case basis where we have a special project
coming into town or... excellent community surveys materials in the Bureau of Justice Statistics. We just
got it at the office that's excellent community survey developed by the Office of... There's a whole book
and manual that goes with it on CD Rom. It can be done locally. It might be one of those things where
somehow we incorporate that. We try to use pieces of that survey and let's survey the public. Let's see
what have they got to say about their policing. What they're evaluating as needs. I think Dave and I can
pretty well say that.., those are the things that we know already today that we can target.., but there's
different mechanisms.
Mayor Mancino: Well I think it'd be great to get the feedback on your service so if there was some sort of
cards that they could fill out and say, what was it like.., police force, etc. I think that would be great.
Bud Olson: Mayor and Council, I think we have something in the city already where you survey.
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City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
Mayor Mancino: Inspections. We did have some of that but I don't think we actually did for law
enforcement. But I may be wrong. I mean please check .... thank you very much. And again, thank you
for staying through this long meeting.
Councilman Senn moved, Councilwoman Jansen seconded that the City Council approve the draft of
the Work Plan 2000 from the Carver County Sheriff's Office and direct them to continue working on
the plan. All voted in favor and the motion carried unanimously.
Scott Botcher: Between this and Project Leadfoot we've gotten our money's worth out of your sargeant.
Seriously, you've done a very nice job. It's not over time is it?
COUNCIL LEGISLATIVE DISCUSSION~ BILL TRACKING REPORT.
Scott Botcher: Well this is Councilman Senn's issue.
Councilman Senn stated that due to lack of interest by other council members on this issue and also due to
the lateness of the meeting, that no discussion needed to take place at this point.
COUNCIL PRESENTATIONS:
Mayor Mancino: Any presentations from the Council?
It was requested to discuss the Administrative Presentations at this point in the meeting.
ADMINISTRATIVE PRESENTATIONS: CENSUS PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT~ CITY
MANAGER.
Scott Botcher: Census Partnership Agreement. I would just like direction from the Council. I have
some...
Councilman Senn: Well I'm sorry but I'm going to take issue with this. I really am. After they came in
and.
Scott Botcher: You didn't even listen to my rationalization.
Councilman Senn: I read all this stuff and it's ridiculous. After they were in here last time pleading with
us, I went and got them some senior volunteers who called them. Were retired people who would go out
and take the census and they told them no, they weren't interested in them because (a), they didn't live in
Chanhassen. Okay, and (b), there was some other reason. It was ridiculous. I mean I don't understand
why this even keeps coming up on our agenda...
Scott Botcher: I am simply just telling you guys.
Councilman Labatt: Don't kill the messenger.
Councilman Senn: I'm just telling you, it really irritates me.
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City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
Scott Botcher: Here's the deal. I don't think you should do this but I want you to know that you'll be in
bad graces with... They want us to dedicate some resources and some staff time to a partnership...
personnel and economic resources towards this.
Mayor Mancino: Not that we don't support the census but I think we have enough to do. I think our staff
has enough to do. I don't know how anybody else feels.
Scott Botcher: Okay, and then because this...I guess I'd like to ifI could, mm it over to, I'm just going to
keep going down my list here for a second. For the attorney for one second. I was running around before
talking to Peter Coyle who wanted to get something to you for you all to look at tonight. So we have now
put together, or primarily Roger has put together, I guess another settlement proposal. Vernelle is here to
talk to it I guess...
Roger Knutson passed out a handout with a revised Settlement Agreement regarding an amendment with
Lake Susan Hills Apartments between the City of Chanhassen and AUSMAR for the Council's review
Mayor Mancino: Roger, what would you like us to do on this?
Roger Knutson explained what he was looking for from the City Council.
Mayor Mancino: Then the last question I have, automatically be renewed for an additional one year
period...
Councilwoman Jansen: I have another question. Somewhere have we specified exactly what the housing
units are that we're looking for on the other side? Meaning how many rental and how many ownership
since we're somewhere between this green acres on the numbers.
Scott Botcher: ... it's in the grant agreement.
Councilwoman Jansen: But as we've shifted and we don't have affordable on this side, I'm assuming then
that affordable's going on the other side and we've actually amended whatever we need to amend to have
the right numbers? Okay.
Scott Botcher: ... those numbers and.., obligation of all parties to meet the numbers... Met Council frankly
cares less of where you put them and more that they're there. So that part we're okay with.
Councilwoman Jansen: And the grant agreement does have the exact, I don't have it in front of me. It does
have the exact numbers.
Scott Botcher: It does have the exact numbers.
Councilwoman Jansen: Okay. Okay... I just know it's not in the PUD but it is in the grant agreement.
Scott Botcher: And that's where... Vernelle, a question came up. What would prevent the landowner from
doing the two commercial sites and then walking away from...
Vernelle Clayton responded to Scott Botcher's question.
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City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
Scott Botcher: ... That letter of credit, depending upon how you do the math and... Now my understanding,
and you correct me if I'm wrong Vernelle, is that the legal beagle who draws...
Mayor Mancino: ... but we could do it all at one time.
Scott Botcher: You'd have to consider that.
Mayor Mancino: But I'm not sure all council members are going to be here. Who's going on vacation?
... but in two weeks you could bring it back to a regular council session if we want.
Vernelle Clayton asked that action be taken sooner per a request from Sheldon Wert.
There was discussion between the council members and staff on when they could meet to act on this
request.
Councilwoman Jansen: I'd just as soon wait to see the final draft.
Mayor Mancino: I think everybody would so if we did it on the l0th.
There was discussion to see if action could be taken sooner than the regular council meeting on April 10th.
Either hold a special meeting or at the work session meeting on April 3rd.
Mayor Mancino: Vernelle, which date, does it make any difference to you whether it's the 3rd... On the 3rd
we'll have maybe four council people. Scott and Roger won't be here to talk about it with us. Or would
you rather wait til the l0th when there's a full council, Scott and Roger?
Councilman Engel: I think you can tell which direction this is going.
Vernelle Clayton: I think it really depends on what direction you give us tonight. If there's clear
direction.., and no one has a problem with this concept, Shel...
Councilwoman Jansen: I don't know, I can't even think about it. I've just got to see it.
Mayor Mancino: I feel comfortable with it so why don't we go ahead and move to see it on Monday night,
April 3rd then. What you would like.
Councilwoman Jansen: And there will be someone from Roger's office there then? If we have questions.
Roger Knutson stated there would be someone from his office available to answer questions.
Vernelle Clayton: If there's an issue then could you circulate it to the Council folks ahead of time if you
have questions...
Councilman Senn moved, Councilman Engel seconded to direct the City Attorney to prepare and
bring back to the City Council work session on April 3, 2000 a draft regarding the revised Settlement
Agreement with AUSMAR. All voted in favor and the motion carried.
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City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
Scott Botcher provided an update to the City Council on where staff was at in the interview process for
selecting a new City Engineer/Public Works Director. They had the candidates narrowed down to two and
were checking references. For the position of Water Resources Coordinator staff had identified a single
candidate and were in negotiations with them at this point.
COUNCIL PRESENTATIONS:
Councilman Engel: Council presentations. Can we go back to that part? ... I wanted to address this
Rules... I don't like it. It sends a bad message to future council towards staff relations. As far as working
together.., respond to that if you want.
Scott Botcher: Well I think.
Councilman Engel: I'm saying for example. If the Mayor is asked to come.., if Councilman Labatt was
asked to weigh in on law enforcement issues... Councilwoman Jansen's asked for input on environmental
and Councilman Senn on development issues. We all have our areas of professional expertise. I don't
care...
Scott Botcher: Mark, I'll be honest with you. This is the first time...but at the same time we're all
professionals.., but I'll be honest with you, I had two council members.., and our staff frankly, and myself
included, are looking for direction on what we're supposed to do. I don't enjoy.., department heads and
we've all discussed it. Doing what we could...and that being said, and maybe more of it's as much a
survival.., but we're here to serve for the common good of the community and serving.., but I think you
would help us out, let me back up. Absent any direction from the council or discussion amongst
yourselves, we have no guidelines to follow.
Mayor Mancino: We never have had though.
Scott Botcher: That may be. I'm just telling you that... I work for all of you.., sometimes it's very
difficult.., staff to do their job the best way that they see... There's no, I tend to agree with you Mark. It's
been my experience.., so I respect what you said.., but I've got staff members that are looking for some
guidance...
Mayor Mancino: Well what's the 30 minutes? ...
Scott Botcher: Do they want that? No. That was put in there simply because I wanted to get some control
on what it was...that's probably not the crux of the rules. The crux of the rules I think involve council
interaction.., so I think that given the fact that again, I'm on the... You all can hold a discussion.., is up to
each individual.
Councilman Engel: I have probably the most hands off policy that you'll find. Over the three years, I feel
it's my turn.., when it's time to vote. I have 1/5 say.., if people want to get involved earlier, get involved in
the process. I don't know where to draw that line...
Councilwoman Jansen: Well the bottom line of where it's coming from is the notification issue, and that's
what we talked about since the very beginning as far as meetings. That if there's a meeting that will
involve council members or council business, we had asked that the entire council be notified because...
private or not, made public if you have two members present. So it was more from an involvement and a
notification point of view that we were coming from last year where we were asking, at least every one be
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City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
notified... Having that said, when we talk about areas of expertise, you know I don't know. I see Project
Leadfoot, and I would have anticipated Councilman Labatt's involvement maybe on something like that.
Had he wanted to. Which again is more of an information sharing but last year I bounced the question off
of Mr. Knutson as I was trying to discern where the council stops and staff does their jobs. Where do we
get involved.., and Mr. Knutson probably put it best by saying that if, when council gets involved, and I
don't know if I'm going to word this correctly. I don't have it with me. When council gets involved you
can influence the way a recommendation is going to come through to the rest of the council. So that said, if
we don't get involved in the projects until they come before council, it's then gone through the process with
staff's professional guidance. Their opinions. They're the, they're going to keep the politics and the
personal and all of that out of it so that their recommendation goes to the Planning Commission before the
Council's involvement. So more just making sure that we're not maybe getting involved and influencing
how a project's proceeding. And letting staff do what staff is supposed to do as far as...Mr. Botcher's
letter when he first started. They're the doers. We're the deliberators. If anything, getting us out of the
process in the early stages makes it better, in my mind, for staff to get done what it needs to get done.
Councilman Engel: ... if all four people were invited to a meeting and I wasn't there.., and I disagreed, I
still disagree with you whether I'm there or not. I really don't care if you all support a view on something
that I disagree with... With that said, there's times when you may be asked to... or for example none of us
but they want council input.., and ask the Mayor and just say how do you think council would respond...
Mayor Mancino: Wait, wait, wait. Wait, wait, wait. Something's, first of all. Number one, at the
beginning of, and let's really talk this through. What happens. At the beginning when a project comes
in..., Kate doesn't call one of us and ask us to weigh in. She never has that I know of. That just doesn't
happen, and if she thought, she's more professional, that any of us did weigh in and put a heavy on her, she
would let us all know. You wouldn't even think of doing that to Kate or a developer because Kate would
go directly to Scott, her boss and say you know, I'm getting a lot of whatever council person, a lot of, they
want me to go a certain way.
Councilwoman Jansen: Roger put it even more simply...
Mayor Mancino: More simply. Excuse me. I'm not done yet.
Councilwoman Jansen: If you were just walking down the hall.
Mayor Mancino: Roger, would you say, or it's not for you to decide, how we are going to act as a
council.., but you suggested to Councilwoman Jansen. It's not...
Roger Knutson made a comment in response to the statement by the Mayor at this point.
Councilman Senn made a comment at this point.
Scott Botcher provided his comments from a staff perspective.
Councilwoman Jansen: But keep in mind where I started from and that was the whole communication
aspect of how we all work together. And the information needing to be shared throughout so that we're all
informed makes a huge difference. I mean I can't tell you, it's not the.
Council members discussed with Scott Botcher a meeting that was held with the School District and the
lack of communication in notifying council members.
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City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
Councilwoman Jansen: Unfortunately the way that you just related that, there are third parties involved in
how Tuesday's meeting came about .... I'm going to move that we adjourn this meeting.
Councilman Senn and Councilwoman Jansen had a discussion related to communications.
Scott Botcher: The direction we get is from here. We do not receive any direction from individual council
members. It does not happen. Doesn't happen.
Councilman Engel made a comment.
Scott Botcher: I mean part of what you have staff for is to bring issues that are ripe to council. You don't
want issues that are not ripe to council and sometimes.., and sort of had a come to Jesus meeting on the site
plan. I mean I hated it... and we sat there and Kate had.., but that was prior to it being ripe for the City
Council. That's what we're here to do.
Councilwoman Jansen: It's not staff's involvement. It's not just our individual problems. I have so many
people from the public want to know why we govern the way that we do, meaning that individuals are out
there doing individual things with staff. It's perceived that way. Perception is reality. If we all knew
about these things or weren't even participating, there's a difference.
Mayor Mancino: Wait, wait, wait. What are these individual things that we are doing with staff? We
have no idea what you're talking about... Or that individual council members are doing individual things.
What are these individual things?
Councilman Senn made a comment at this point.
Mayor Mancino: Okay, and that will continue happening. It certainly continues happening with me as
Mayor. A lot of times people will call and say to me that they've had a problem with staff or something
and I'll talk to them and I'll meet with them and let staff know. There's no question.
Councilwoman Jansen: It's different. It's not about meeting with your constituents. It's when.
Mayor Mancino: So we're not allowed to meet? So what you're saying is you don't want us to meet...
you don't want us to meet with staff.
Councilwoman Jansen: No. No, I said it's not about our meeting with constituents. That's what we do.
It's when we start getting involved with staff, with the developers and we're working on things individually
that we're not longer letting the system work the way the system's supposed to work.
Mayor Mancino: And that's from your perspective completely. I don't think it is from anybody else's.
Councilwoman Jansen: It's not driving it. It's whether you start voicing your own opinions at a time when
the decisions are still being processed and coming through.
Mayor Mancino: Is this a problem for staff? Am I missing something?
Scott Botcher made a comment at this point in response to the Mayor's and Councilwoman Jansen's
comments.
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City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
Councilwoman Jansen: We have no idea then what hits the cutting room floor. I mean you don't know
where the thing started and where they ended. You lose the option until you...
Scott Botcher: Well I don't think you lose any options because if you can take and bring them up, you can
bring them up. I mean if you want to have pink drivit on office buildings, I mean anything that...
Councilman Engel: An example came up tonight. I didn't like the.., it wasn't anywhere in the
documentation but I thought...
Councilwoman Jansen: Why is it when you want to communicate supposedly and get everything out on the
table you do it in front of the microphone instead in work session. This is the second time you've pulled
this.
Mayor Mancino: Or we could go to the paper and do it. Would you like us to do it there? I mean that's
exactly what Mark brought up. I mean this is a meeting. We're together. We're talking and that's what
we should be doing. Whether it's in front of the microphone or a work session.
Councilwoman Jansen: Roger, how many people does it take to adjourn a meeting?
Roger Knutson gave his answer.
Mayor Mancino: Keep with this and get this how we're going to work it through.
Councilman Engel: If you ask me, this is the healthiest discussion we've held in a long time. It's better
than having it in the paper or... It's better right here, right now. I have nothing to hide.
Councilwoman Jansen: If you're looking for this to be constructive, then I suggest you... I mean you don't,
if we're trying to.
Councilman Engel made a comment at this point.
Councilwoman Jansen: Communication. If we can improve the communication and all of us just be in the
loop on what's going on.
Councilman Engel: I don't care.
Councilwoman Jansen: That's your personal opinion.
Councilman Engel: The loop comes when it comes.
Council members held a discussion on this item at this point.
Councilwoman Jansen: Monday night in our work session I sat down next to a member of this community
who proceeded to lobby me for, I had no idea where he was coming from. Suddenly I'm hearing about
the.., project. Suddenly I'm hearing that Westwood Church has 2,000 members compared to a couple
hundred neighbors in the Longacres development. Now if we're going to be listening to people on this
Puke project, well he doesn't know necessarily the details of what was going on there except he
understands that we need a simple majority vote and we don't have it. I of course said well yes we did. We
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City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
had passed it with a simple majority vote. I don't know what you're talking about. So not having any idea
where he was coming from or why he was lobbying me, I mean he's now suggesting that if we don't
approve the Puke project, if the church doesn't get the utilities, therefore we've screwed the church. But
the only option that the church has to get their utilities is the frontage road and I'm saying, I have no idea
what exactly it is that we're trying to accomplish with this conversation. I didn't know where it was going.
It all related to the meeting on Tuesday morning because it came down to the school. If I had known what
was going on or been in the loop, I mean I wouldn't have been put in this very uncomfortable position of
having no idea why I'm getting lobbied on a project that I don't even know is in house being worked on.
... yeah they are.
Mayor Mancino: They're going to lobby you.
Councilman Senn: We're getting lobbied all the time.
Councilwoman Jansen: But we didn't know the project was back in. I mean I said to him, to my
knowledge.
Mayor Mancino: Wait, wait, wait. Yeah, not wait, wait, wait. It never went away.
Councilwoman Jansen: To my knowledge they know what it is we need with the project to proceed and
they're working on that.
Councilman Senn made a comment.
Councilwoman Jansen: We told them in the bullet points when we passed it what it would have to look like
when it came back for us to approve it. All I'm saying is, I was in a position where if I had had the
knowledge of what was going on.
Councilman Engel: Let her finish this. I want to hear her finish this.
Councilwoman Jansen: There were already conversations going on with the whole school aspect of it and
what he was saying was for the next morning, getting together...
Scott Botcher: My statement I guess is this. And again I'll go back to some what has been said. For 14
years, I guess it's been my experience that the successful councils, that every one on the council members,
in more instances than not given the activity in the community.., you know something, I don't have a clue.
Why don't you call Scott and I've got to say something.
Councilman Engel: I've got to address that right now because I probably have to say it more than anybody
else because I keep at long arm's reach.
Scott Botcher: And you know that doesn't' know that you're going to know everything every single time
somebody asks you and I guess the best thing, and I'll give them credit. The Mayor already does this...
you know something, I don't understand this. Call Scott or call whoever and you'll get your answer. That
to me is an appropriate response.
Councilwoman Jansen: I did tell him that I didn't know.
Councilman Senn: That is the perfect response.
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City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
Scott Botcher: Perfect.
Councilman Senn: You should call Scott...
Mayor Mancino: Yeah, I should say I don't know. Liv... called me last week and said, hey I hear you're
not going TIF anymore. What's the deal? I said, and she met with Todd Gerhardt...and so I said call
Scott. I don't know anything about it. I don't know what's coming in. That happens to all of us.
Councilwoman Jansen: It was tied in with the meeting the next morning.
Councilman Engel: But my answer would be the same. I know nothing about it. When I get the staff
report on Thursday I'll be ready to talk about it on Saturday. Until then I have nothing to say. I've said
that so many times.
Mayor Mancino: And I think Scott has said that he screwed up... when he was talking about the school
meeting. Part of that I have no idea...but 101 and the middle school, there were a lot of things under
miscellaneous that I brought up that we had talked about. One was 101 and... The other one was under
middle school... Some of the stuff we just asked about under miscellaneous and he doesn't have a memo
prepared and has on the top of his head, he may read something else. Nobody can answer all the
questions.
Councilman Engel: That's why we get packets on Thursday and get the weekend to study them. There's
nothing wrong with not knowing the answer.
Councilman Senn made a comment at this point.
Councilman Labatt: No, no, no. Options.
Councilman Senn: I understand that but again... I could operate on paranoia. I could say.., you know, I
don't care. It's been that way for 8 years...
Councilman Labatt: ...this school issue is important. Unfortunately we... and I get a call...
Councilman Engel: I think you've got to have more trust in...then that should be enough.
Councilman Labatt: That's not my issue here. It's just communication. Let's leave it at that. I've got to
go. Okay?
Mayor Mancino: Well no, I mean I think we have to come down on these rules because I mean we have to
decide this as a council. I mean one of the things is, we get new council people, they're going to need to be
to come in and get trained. They're going to need to meet with staff. I mean I weigh in on the rules thing
too. Can't we just have more trust between us? If people want to know where I am, I don't mind keeping
an open calendar with Karen. She can just have my calendar. She can have everybody's calendar. If
that's the important part of it.
Scott Botcher: Well that'd be easy too.
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City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
Mayor Mancino: Well I'm just saying. If that's the real concern where people are... If we need to get
better at communicating and knowing everything that happens, something will always get lost. But if we
want to give Scott the message that as much as possible if you could keep everybody in the loop. We don't
want to know every single meeting or what goes on but that if you know about a meeting that somebody
asks about it, obviously tell everyone about the meeting.
Scott Botcher: The only thing I would ask is that as a public official, that we hold many meetings that the
Chanhassen Villager is not...they're not public. They're not supposed to be public meetings. The idea...
had the right to be there is not... That will be, I mean they have, I know that Todd and Kate and.., and it's
a responsibility. It is a responsibility. I find it difficult, and I guess the one thing that, and.., is that we
cannot have staff trying to be... there's no way that you would even want to know.., but I think the idea that
we have staff members who have to open up the Chanhassen Villager and read articles that are
disparaging.., makes my job very difficult. I guess I would ask you all to consider the overall... I mean it's
like Steve opening up the paper and read his supervisor... Whatever. Comments he finds disparaging...
You know I think if anyone.., it's probably not staff.., and I don't know, I have my own personal opinions
on the journalistic approach that was taken by the Villager... I guess I'd just ask you to consider what you
do and how it impacts the staff...
Mayor Mancino: Well I want to wrap up the rules. Decide how we feel as a council about the rules, and
number two, whether we can together not have these rules but play together, work together, have the
community's interest in what we're doing together in the forefront and not all these heady little things going
on. That's where I'd like to see us operating as a council...
Councilwoman Jansen: I prefer having the rules in place for a while. But that's just my opinion.
Councilman Engel: ... without them for years.., my opinion.
Councilman Labatt gave his opinion on the rules.
Mayor Mancino: Copying everybody on e-mails.
Councilman Labatt: That's fine but...
Mayor Mancino: Okay, so let's just copy everybody on e-mails so that when each of us e-mail you and...
You don't have to write every single phone call down, no. No. No. I mean we don't want to take up your
time, but if there is something, can we just leave it at staff's discretion. If there is a good question that is
asked on the phone that you think that the rest of the council.
Kate Aanenson made a comment at this point.
Mayor Mancino: And you wanted to show it as good faith, especially after the Powers Ridge.
There was discussion between staff and council members at this point not picked up on the tape.
Mayor Mancino: No, we're getting clear direction. The rule that...that we want is number one, that all e-
mails, if there are questions asked to staff, that we e-mail so they get every one gets a copy... Now you
need to have some discretion. If you get 10 e-mails a day from one of us, you're not going to be able to
answer them. And plus that you get even 6 e-mails with a whole bunch of details asked, that's what should
be in the staff report. We shouldn't need to come in and do a lot of research. Staff has reviewed.., if we
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City Council Meeting - March 27, 2000
need to change our staff reports because we need more detail, we need to tell you that as a council. If
there's something wrong about the format of our, of the staff report, we as a council feel we need more
detail, then we should decide that. Otherwise you guys do the research. You give us...
There was discussion by council members at this point that was not picked up on tape.
Mayor Mancino: Well, and it's also rules with the staff report. I mean again, we don't want to be doing
the research and we don't want to ask so many questions that you're not doing your job, you're answering
our questions and they should be in the staff report.
There was discussion by council members at this point that was not picked up on tape.
Mayor Mancino: Are there any areas in the staff report that council members, that you feel that we need to
do more research in. That you can say just very general. Anything to give staff direction? Just anything.
I mean everybody feels fine with the way staff reports are done? If you do fine now but please bring to the
council work sessions whatever particular areas you think we need to add to our staff report to make it
easier for us to understand each one of us. And let's evaluate it.
Councilman Engel: Evaluate deciduous trees.
Mayor Mancino: Okay, because we kind of got into... Any other directions that we want to give as far as
the rules, guidelines, etc? Anybody else?
There was discussion by council members at this point that was not picked up on tape.
Mayor Mancino: Wait, wait, wait you guys. Remember one of the things that we said in April that we're
going to do is, we're going to talk about, if we do wanted to go through in the changes, what is the vision?
What are we trying to do so that we can give staff good direction as to where it is.
Councilman Labatt made a comment at this point.
Mayor Mancino: And you guys, I mean to be quite frank after 8 years, that's still always going to happen.
But that doesn't mean we shouldn't say, what's our priority.
There was discussion by council members at this point that was not picked up on tape.
Councilman Senn moved, Councilman Engel seconded to recess the City Council meeting until
Monday, April 3, 2000 at 5:30 p.m.
Submitted by Scott Botcher
City Manager
Prepared by Nann Opheim
32