WS 2013 11 12
CHANHASSEN CITY COUNCIL
WORK SESSION
NOVEMBER 12, 2013
Mayor Furlong called the work session to order at 5:30 pm.
COUNCIL MEMBERS PRESENT:
Mayor Furlong, Councilman McDonald, Councilwoman
Tjornhom, Councilwoman Ernst, and Councilman Laufenburger
STAFF PRESENT:
Todd Gerhardt, Laurie Hokkanen, Paul Oehme, Kate Aanenson, Greg Sticha and
Lt. Jeff Enevold
PUBLIC PRESENT:
Mike Luger Massera, 7818 Market Boulevard
UPDATE ON RENEWAL OF FRANCHISE AGREEMENT WITH MEDIACOM, BRIAN
GROGAN, MOSS AND BARNETT.
Todd Gerhardt introduced Brian Grogan from Moss & Barnett who provided an update on the status of
negotiations for the renewal of the Franchise Agreement with Mediacom. Mayor Furlong asked if other
utility companies are treated the same as Mediacom. Councilman Laufenburger asked for clarification of
the fee structure, about governance of the FCC and enforcement provisions. Mayor Furlong asked about
costs for cable service at public facilities i.e. City Hall, schools, etc. and why not remove PEG fees
entirely.
DISCUSS CONCURRENT DETACHMENT AND ANNEXATION OF LAND WITH THE CITY
OF VICTORIA.
Todd Gerhardt explained that this request is an example of two cities working together to put a plan
together in conjunction with the Pleasant Acres subdivision. Kate Aanenson explained how the
subdivision, which was platted in 1958-59, has lots in both cities. In order to make it easier for residents
to obtain building permits and utility service the two cities worked together to change city boundary lines.
She reviewed the resolution that is being presented for approval at the regular meeting. Councilman
Laufenburger asked about the status of future property taxes.
UPDATE ON TH 101 FROM TH 5 TO PLEASANT VIEW ROAD.
Paul Oehme provided background information on this corridor of TH 101 noting there is currently no
funding programmed for any improvements through MnDOT. He reviewed Hennepin and Carver
County’s future plans, and historic traffic counts which show a decrease in traffic numbers in the last 10
years. He explained that trends are not pointing to the need for a 4 lane road, which is currently in the
counties comprehensive plans. The City Engineer then reviewed Hennepin County’s improvement
projects planned for TH 101 from Minnetonka Blvd to TH 12 and County Road 62 to Hutchins Drive.
Staff will continue to keep the dialogue open with other agencies regarding future traffic corridor needs.
Mayor Furlong stated he could not support the 4 lane roadway being proposed by Hennepin County.
Councilwoman Ernst asked about impacts on residential property associated with these improvements.
Councilman McDonald discussed when upgrade plans came through 12 years ago and suggesting getting
residents involved earlier in the process. Staff will continue to keep the council updated.
City Council Work Session – November 12, 2013
DISCUSS ORDINANCE AMENDMENT CONCERNING LICENSING MASSAGE BUSINESSES.
Todd Gerhardt provided an overview of what the City is trying to accomplish with this draft ordinance.
Laurie Hokkanen reviewed the specifics included in the draft ordinance which eliminates construction
standards and requires a one time fee for the background check. Mayor Furlong asked how other
communities would be contacted. Lt. Enevold explained that would be part of the background check
process. Councilman McDonald applauded staff for simplifying this draft ordinance. Mayor Furlong
asked about staff addressing concerns with chair massages and home occupations as referenced in an
email. Councilman Laufenburger concurred with Councilman McDonald that his concerns had been
addressed before asking about the $250 fee for background checks, and liability issues associated with the
City Council approving those background checks. Mayor Furlong asked Lt. Enevold to clarify the
County’s background check procedures. Councilwoman Ernst concurred with Councilman Laufenburger
and Councilman McDonald with simplifying the process.
The work session was recessed at 6:58 p.m. It was reconvened at 7:50 p.m.
CONTINUE DISCUSSION ON ORDINANCE AMENDMENT CONCERNING LICENSING
MASSAGE BUSINESSES.
Mayor Furlong asked if Lt. Enevold has talked to other cities that have ordinances currently and timing
for the application process with current and new businesses coming to town. Councilwoman Ernst asked
how this process compares to other business licenses in town i.e. liquor licenses. Mayor Furlong
suggested offering a discounted license fee for early submittals. Council members concurred with a
discount being offered. Councilman Laufenburger asked if applications are published and if prostitution
is illegal in homes. Lt. Enevold stated yes, prostitution is illegal anywhere. Todd Gerhardt added that the
City experienced an incident earlier where this ordinance would have denied a business license.
Councilman McDonald asked if the proposed ordinance meets the agenda initially presented by the
sheriff’s office. Lt. Enevold stated he feels this ordinance will meet their goals. Mayor Furlong asked
that this item be brought back at the next council meeting in the hope of getting the process started in
December.
Mayor Furlong adjourned the work session at 8:05 p.m.
Submitted by Todd Gerhardt
City Manager
Prepared by Nann Opheim
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