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HomeMy WebLinkAboutweekly notes July 26th 2019 - CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS—WEEKIWN f July 26th,2019 TO: City Council Mem S FROM: Eric Johnson,Ci A mi Listing of upcoming Meetings—Through September 24th,201 Zoning&Development Items: 1. The City has received no new applications this pas ek;hQwever,we are expecting two applications—one for the repurposing of the Goodwill site for a private car club operation—and two for the bus garage proposing a trucking transfer facility and repairs. I have enclosed the current narratives provided by these companies. Both operations are likely to need CUP approvals.These items will likely be on the September Planning Commission meeting. 2. The City did receive a complaint regarding TRAIN HORNS—being the coal trains from Xcel Energy.The report claimed that it was happening a lot more in recent weeks—especially earlier in the morning.I did reach out to the King Plant Manager—see the enclosed letter—and asked if he could talk to the operators to see if these could be reduced in any way;to which he says that he does do that on occasion. 3. City Staff held a meeting with BCWD Staff where we did discuss the application of MIDS(versus pre-settlement)and what entity may be best to apply such rules and process applications.Of course,until all the details are understood it is hard to say at this stage if that is something the City desires to do—in lieu of an independent BCWD,but since the City already has MIDS in its rules such application may NOT be redundant.We just need to be sure there is not any supplemental requirements the BCWD might seek and that we need to better understand RATE control issues in certain areas near Norrell Ave.We will be meeting again on August 14th to talk further. I have enclosed the AGENDA from this meeting;however,it was largely about what I explain above. 4. The new Owner of 5627 Perkins Ave.was provided the required letter outlining the new compliance dates for the home condition updates.See Enclosed. 5. CUSHMAN-WAKEFIELD owner's representative of the lands lying west of Panera bread,did provide a MARKED-UP version of some of their ideas and concepts for the proposed frontage road re-route.That map is enclosed.Some of the items can be easily provided, however the City has no material capacity to re-locate powedines or their transmission towers.At this stage, Staff has asked for some further clarification on the continued need for a TRAFFIC STUDY,a response is pending. 6. !he home at 5650160 Penfield Ave.appears to have a water leak that remains un-repaired and, likely a result of this is a very high water and sewer bill which is OUTSTANING totaling$821.30.While these costs are high,we hope that the leak gets fixed promptly as we request in our letter. Other Items: • The YOUTH SERVICE BUERAU has provided a letter requesting the similar$11,000 in the 2020 Budget,please see enclosed. • Washington County has provided a response to the City continued follow-up and request for some trail crossing markings -they indicated that they will install some signage for the NORTHBOUND traffic and will reach out to ST.Croix Apartments to discuss some grading to improve the site lines. I have enclosed Joe Gustafson's email that outlines some of their rationale and these proposed improvements. • METRO CITIES dues for 2020 is slated to have a 0%increase—see their enclosed letter dated July 11 e,2019 • As the City explores the improvements to Oakgreen Ave, about 1,000 feet of this road is shared with Baytown Township. I did correspond with the Town Clerk giving her a heads-up about a possible project in 2020 to gauge their interest in a joint project-See enclosed. • The three-year extension letter was sent to Tennis Sanitation;we have requested an updated performance bond. • At the July 24th County—City Administrators meeting, Washington County Community Services did provide a general overview about HOMELESSNESS in Washington County. I have enclosed their power point information that conveys a number of statistics and possible resources. • FIELD OF BANDS Event for Yellow Ribbon—Sept 14th,2019. 1 of 39 • Mayor McComber, Betty Caruso and I will be meeting with Xcel Energy on 7/29 to discuss their values that have been made available from the DOR.We anticipate that Xcel will appeal the 2020 Preliminary values that total$246,216,000.It is largely these values and their timing that cause the budgetary difficulties. 261'7+'in-W T2018 Final 20` Preifminary 2010inai 2020 Preliminary "roxi ti Equalizeda!M1r4 uAized Total'Equalized Total EqualizedTotal Equalized Property Type Description MarketVaiuerket Value Market Value Market Value- Market Value Elec Gen Machinery-King 191,956,000 205,739,200 216,391,800 200,023,400 210,707,200 Other Machinery-King 6,617,600 7,478,500 8,245,200 7,621,500 8,111,100 Structure,Owned Land-King 18,928,300 _ 19,737,700 21,234,400 19,628,100 15,013,000 Other Machinery-OP Sub 1,606,600 1,789,800 1,946,700 1,799,500 2,460,800 Structure,Owned Land-OP Sub 33,200' 34,600 36,800 34,000 30,900 Other Machi nery-Baytown Sub 523,300 545,100 4,001,000 3,698,400 3,742,500 Structure,Owned Land-Baytow 154,100. 162,100 695,100 642,600 639,500 Elec Dist Lines City 2,675,4007 2,919,000 3,219,900 2,976,300 3,079,200 Elec Trnsm>or=200kV CtyOr 29,800= 31,000 33,000 30,500 30,300 ElecTrnsm>or=69kV Cty Org 864,400 900,200 1,141,900 1,055,500 1,075,900 Gas Distrib Utility 1,262,400 1,290,800 1,332,600 1,115,000 1,325,600 224,651,100 240,628,000 258,278,400 238,624,800 246,216,000 Mayor McComber provided: 1. Metro Cities News for July 26th,2019 2. Lower St.Croix Management Commission—Meeting Minutes for 5/29/19 3. NLC Weekly for July 20th,2019 4. July 25th Update from Shelly Christensen. Please let me know if you have any questions-651-253-7837 Call Anytime. 2 of 39 CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL & COMMISSIONS MEETINGS & WORKSESSIONS AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2019 Monday, August 19 11:30 a.m. MCF-Stillwater New Warden Ceremony (MCF-Stillwater, 2°a Floor) 6:00 p.m. Parks Commission Meeting (Council Chambers) Tuesday,August 27 5:00 p.m. City Council Worksession (Conference Room) 6:00 p.m. City Council Meeting (Council Chambers) Tuesday, September 10 5:00 p.m. City Council Worksession (Conference Room) 6:00 p.m. City Council Meeting (Council Chambers) Thursday, September 12 6:00 p.m. Planning Commission Meeting (Council Chambers) Monday, September 16 6:00 p.m. Parks Commission Meeting (Council Chambers) Tuesday, September 24 5:00 p.m. City Council Worksession (Conference Room) 6:00 p.m. City Council Meeting (Council Chambers) POLICY NOTE.Items in are expected to be SOCIAL EVENTS in nature and not an official City Council meeting. No official action or discussion may be undertaken by City Council Members who may attend such events. The City is listing such events so as the public is generally aware that there may be occasions when City Council members may desire to attend functions that are purely social-events. 3 of 39 PROJECT NARRATIVE Submitted in Support of Development Application for Conditional Use Permit("CUP") 5899 Nova Scotia Avenue,City of Oak Park Heights,Minnesota Boo Boo's Garage,LLC,Applicant The Applicant, Boo Boo's Garage, LLC, submits this Project Narrative in support of its Development Application for a Conditional Use Permit("CUP")addressing proposed uses for real property it owns at 5899 Nova Scotia Avenue,PIN 0502920110119 (the "Property"). Proposed Use. Applicant plans to develop a one-of-a-kind, private automobile club dedicated to classic and rare automobiles that will operate out of the existing building on the Property. The Property's building will serve as a unique community gathering space for vehicle aficionados to enjoy and appreciate vintage and exotic automobiles in a museum-type format. It will also likely serve as an event space for automobile showcases, corporate gatherings, and private parties. Applicant seeks to offer memberships enabling members to use the Property's building to: • Lease year-round, climate-controlled, secured storage and exhibition space to store and display classic and rare automobiles; • Perform basic automobile maintenance and repairs, such as minor mechanical repair and washes; and • Sell small quantities of classic and rare automobiles directly to consumers as a licensed Vehicle Dealer. The Proposed Repair and Sales Uses are Conditional Uses Requiring a CUP. The Property is zoned as B-4 Limited Business District. City Ordinance 401.301.E states that"automobile repair- minor and tire and battery stores and service" is a conditional use, "provided that the use is accessory to and internally located within a retail sales operation." Applicant's proposed maintenance and repair uses,which include oil changes and car washes,fall within the definition of"Automobile Repair-Minor": Installation, including cellular telephones, audio systems, and minor repairs, upholstering, replacement of parts (tires, glass, etc.) and minor motor services to passenger automobiles and trucks not exceeding 12,000 pounds gross weight, but not including any operation specified under"Automobile Repair-Major." City Ord. Definitions. The proposed automobile maintenance and repairs will not include major car repairs, such as rebuilding or reconditioning engines,collision service, or body repair. Additionally, the proposed maintenance and repair services are accessory to the retail business, which includes the sale of storage space and the sale of classic and rare automobiles to consumers at the Property. "Retail" is defined by the City's zoning code as "the sale of items in small quantities directly to consumers." City Ord.Definitions. Applicant is in the process of obtaining a Vehicle Dealer license that will allow vehicles to be sold from the Property. Because the minor 1 CORE12064285.00061153802318.2 4 of 39 repairs will be an accessory use to the sales of storage space and classic and rare vehicles in small quantities directly to consumers at the Property, Applicant's proposed uses are conditional uses that require a CUP. The City's Authority to Grant a CUP to Applicant. Permitting Applicant's proposed uses through a CUP would be compatible with the land use and zoning of the Property within the general area and would be suitable for the property for the uses permitted under the existing zoning classification. As provided by City Ordinance 401.03.C, in making its detennination to grant a CUP, the City may consider: 1. The nature of the adjoining land or buildings. According to the current Zoning Map, the adjoining land is also zoned B4, Limited Business District. According to the Proposed Land Use Map in the Comprehensive Plan, the adjoining land is guided towards Commercial and Medium Density Residential. The current adjoining uses are as follows: West: Xcel Energy Utility Infrastructure Northwest: Grocery Store North: Offices, Residential Northeast: Residential East:Residential South: Utility Line and Drainage Pond Because Applicant's proposed repair and retail uses will be contained within the existing building on the Property, the adjoining land or buildings will not be negatively impacted by the proposed uses. 2. Whether or not a similar use is already in existence and located on the same premises or on other lands immediately close by. Automobile storage, repair and sales are not current uses for the Property. The Property was last used as a Goodwill store and thrift store. An auto body shop and an auto parts shop are located within the commercial area to the west of the property (Jerry's Auto Body, Autozone Auto Parts, and Walmart Auto Care Centers). Although the proposed repair and sales services are unique to the Property, the uses will be contained within the existing building and will be consistent with the character of the area and Property. 3. The effect upon traffic into and from the premises,or on any adjoining roads. Applicant's proposed uses will attract less traffic than the neighboring commercial uses to the west, which will help buffer between the higher-density commercial uses to the west and the residential uses to the east.Applicant's Property is located on the eastern periphery of the commercial retail area to the west of the Property that includes a Lowe's, Walmart, Bremer Bank, White Castle, St. Paul Eye Clinic, Massage Envy-Stillwater, and other 2 CORE/2064285.0006J 1538112318 5 of 39 businesses. Because the Property will be primarily be used for private use by club members and occasional events and gatherings, the proposed uses will not materially increase traffic into and from the premises or adjoining roads. 4. All other or further factors as the City shall deem a prerequisite of consideration in determining the effect of the use on the general welfare,public health and safety. The proposed repair and sales uses are consistent with the permitted uses in the B-4 District. The B-4 District permits retail sales, commercial service uses, club or lodge halls, parking or garages for the parking and storage of private passenger vehicles, and rental services conducted entirely within a building. City Ord. 401.301.B. Granting Applicant's CUP would therefore allow club members to repair and sell the cars parked and stored inside the building. Moreover, granting Applicant's CUP would be consistent with the City's Comprehensive Plan. City Ord. 401.01.D. The Comprehensive Plan zoning map guides the Property towards"Commercial (with adjacent medium density residential)."The Plan sets forth that it intends for commercially zoned properties to "maintain and improve" the City's "vital retail and service locations."Comprehensive Plan at 72. Through Commercial districts,the City also seeks to"promote a mixed use environment with the commercial areas consisting of retail, office, and service land uses."Id.. Here, the private club would revitalize a vacant retail building by offering new services and retail while also serving as a buffer between higher-intensity commercial use and the adjacent residential uses. Accordingly, granting Applicant's CUP is consistent with the City's Zoning Code and Comprehensive Plan. As required,the Applicant has submitted to the City: 1. The Development Application form; 2. This Project Narrative; 3. A Site Plan for the Property; and 4. The Application Fee of$400.00. Applicant respectfully asks the City to grant the Applicant's proposed CUP. 3 CORE'2064285.00%,153802318.2 6 of 39 8V.5 +� f� To whom it may concern, These are the uses we are planning for the property on Stagecoach Trail: The facility will be designed to meet the needs of independent truckers in the Twin Cities metro area. When trucks are not operating on the road the owners need a place to park and service them. Our business will cater to those needs The attached diagram shows how we anticipate the layout for the location. There will be parking spaces for semi trucks; primarily dry goods haulers and car carrier haulers. The primary working site will be a mechanics shop to do truck repair. We would also like to have a body shop in the adjacent building if local permitting permits. In addition, one of the buildings would be used as an office for scheduling and administrative needs. Because of the nature of the business we don't feel there will be a lot of traffic in and out since the facility is designed to park and repair. I hope and plan to have a good and respectful relationship with the surrounding neighbors and as such I'm willing to put a fence around the property to screen the buildings from public view if that is seen as desirable. I hope that gives you an indication of our planned use and I'm happy to answer any additional questions. Idiris Mohamud 612-267-2060 7 of 39 po �� City of Oak Park Heights Page 1 of 1 14168 Oak Park Blvd. N•Oak Park Heights,MN 55082•Phone(651)4394439•Fax(651)439-0574 7/25/19 TO: Mr. Brian Behm,Plant Manager Allen S. King Plant-Xcel Energy VIA EMAIL ONLY:Brian.Behm@xcelenergy.com RE: Train Horns Dear Brian, We certainly realize you may have limited ability to engage this issue, but here it goes... My office has received a complaint from a near-by resident to the Allen S. King Plant regarding the uses of train horns prior to 7 am.We are hoping that through your relationship with the Union Pacific that you could kindly remind them that their use of horns does impact surrounding properties and to not regularly blow these unless necessary. These roadway crossings, I believe require quiet hours in Bayport from 10 PM to 7 AM.Any help or guidance you could offer to us or the train operators to reduce the use of train horns in the morning prior to 7 AM is appreciated. Kind regards, 40 Eric Johnson City Administrator 8 of 39 BCWD Meeting with Member Communities July 24, 201910:00—11:00 a.m. Oak Park Heights City Hall 14168 Oak Park Blvd. N. Oak Park Heights AGENDA 1. Introductions& Meeting Goals—5 minutes a. Update on the process b. Are we revising rules? c. Developing an agreement with each of the communities? d. Outcomes from this meeting will inform what we take back to the Board at the July 31St Special Meeting 2. MIDS Evaluation—10 minutes 3. How would MIDS Apply?—30 minutes a. Permit Structure Options L Create agreement with Stillwater and OPH to implement MIDS as comparable to BCWD Rules in the Diversion drainage area 1. Communities implement the rules on their own 2. Agreement to have BCWD provide stormwater review(i.e. MSCWMO model) ii. BCWD stand-alone permitting: re-write BCWD rules to allow MIDS in this portion of the watershed b. Status of TSMP Agreement c. More than MIDS? L Determine if remaining ordinances are consistent with the District's rules— identify the need for additional discussion (e.g. rate, buffers,wetland bounce and inundation,freeboard and floodplain alterations) 4. Partnering on an engineering study to evaluate impacts—10 minutes a. What would this evaluation look like? 5. Next Steps—5 minutes a. Identify follow-up items b. Meeting outcomes to take to the BCWD Board of Managers c. Need to schedule another meeting? 9 of 39 City of Oak Park Heights 14168 Oak Park Blvd.N. Oak Park Heights, MN 55082 Phone:651.439.4439 Fax:651.439.0574 July 24, 2019 Mr. Mike Hull 5627 Perkins Ave. N. Oak Park Heights, MN 55082 Re: Site Condition:January 8, 2019 City Council Action—5627 Perkins Ave. N. Dear Mr. Hull, Please note that the Oak Park Heights City Council addressed the site conditions of 5627 Perkins Ave. N. at their January 8,2019 City Council meeting and passed Resolution 19-01-06,which deemed the property hazardous,and ordered pursuant to Minn.Stat. §463.17 that a number of repairs and items must be addressed no later than June 30,2019. The resolution was served by publication and posting upon Steve Berres as the homeowner and the former tenant, Lisa Kroska,as required by statute. A copy of Resolution 19-01-06 is enclosed. It is my understanding,that since the passage of the resolution,you have purchased the home from Mr. Berres, under a contract for deed arrangement,and are currently the legal owner of the property. Regardless of whether or not Mr. Berres advised you of the existence of Resolution 19-01-06,it remains an obligation upon the property that the City intends to enforce. The remediation requirements remain incomplete. As the legal owner,you are responsible for meeting compliance as demanded by the resolution, noted upon page 3 of the same. Given your recent acquisition of the property,the City will extend the compliance deadline a period of three months to allow you to address the items that were not corrected prior to your purchase. All items shall be satisfactorily addressed no later than September 30, 2019. Please contact me with any questions you may have regarding what is required and to schedule a site visit to view items that have been corrected to date. Sincerely, PLANNING&CODE ENFORCEMENT JuIN 4ultman Building Official Enclosure c: ✓Eric Johnson,City Administrator Kevin Sandstrom,City Attorney Steve Berres Phone:651.351.1661 10 of 39 Email:jhultman@cityofoakparkheights.com ry r is Z i5w # r 0 a tit' ' r s qwmml Y _ q� r wr r(rY' res •+��" � .__.._.�.,,..._� is .#49 3 � ❑a - •�,,' �, � ro n ° h i Q 3 d71 9 no I' III s. O a e a� o d a � _� oa av+ 0 3CL M a vi Cl ui ro m Q,o O N .Zl ^" w d� G N bJ O N c m cw 'o v O fi CL x 0 v _ a N x 0 t + V���— — Si = coi o a 3-5 a a 0 IM o.f. 0 aco o= a v o w IM � w n) n a x w �' `' _ 4, CITY OP y OAK PARK HEIGHTS _ M 141680 A Park Boulevard North • Oak Park Heights,MN 55082 • Phone:651/439-4439 • Fax:651/439-0574 July 25, 2019 Mr. Steve Jacobs 135 Saint Croix Trail N Lakeland, MN 55043-9500 Dear Mr. Jacobs: Included with this letter is a bill for the additional sewer usage due to the water leak a60 Penfield Ave N, Oak Park Heights. The utility bill that was mailed for April 1 -June 30,(20i included only 27,000 gallons for sewer usage and 166,000 gallons for water usage.The city ordinarily uses the winter water usage (Jan-March)to determine the amount of sewer billing for the remaining of the year's quarterly utility bills, which in your case is 27,000 gallons. Due to the water leak, your sewer bill should have reflected the 166,000 gallons as based on the water usage for the April-June quarter. The amount due is$821.30 and is calculated as follows: Original Adjusted Service Bill 6 30 19 Bill 6 30 19 Water $ 672.38 $ 672.38 MN Water Connection Charge 1.59 1.59 Sewer 146.90 968.20 Storm water 6.00 6.00 Total $ 826.87 $ 1,648.17 Balance from prior quarter 92.65 92.65 Total Due $ 919.52 $ 1,740.82 Payments (919.52) (919.52) Amount Due $ - $ 821.30 The Public Works Department read the meter at the property today. It registers 55,000 gallons used. This is for 3 weeks of usage. Continuation of water leaking at this rate will result in and estimated 220,000 gallons for the July-September quarter and a utility bill that will exceed $2,000. Please correct this soon. Water leaks can pose a problem not only for your property but for the city as well. Failure to correct this leak may result in the City turning the water off to your property per Ordinance 1001.05. 1 have included a copy of the Ordinance for your reference. 12 of 39 Tree City U.S.A. r If you have any questions, please contact Andy Kegley, Public Works Director or myself. Sincerely, a.Ls— Betty Car o(�' Finance Director CC: Andy Kegley, Public Works Director Eric Johnson, City Administrator Encl. (2) 13 of 39 youth service Helping youth and families learn the skills they need to be more successful at home, in school and throughout the community bureau www.ysb.net July 22, 2019 RECEIVED JUL ?- 5 2019 3 City of Oak Park Heights City of Oak Park Heights 14168 Oak Park Boulevard r"r Oak Park Heights, Minnesota 55082-6476 Dear Friends, Thank you for your contribution o 11,000.00 in sup ort of Youth Service Bureau, Inc. (YSB) received on July 15, 2019. On behalf oft a young people and families we serve, we are grateful for your kindness. This generous gift makes is possible for us to provide mental and chemical health services to students in their schools. Professional therapists work with students, faculty, and staff in three public school districts in Minnesota, including ISD 834. Your thoughtful contribution makes it possible for us to expand our work with local law enforcement agencies,the courts, and schools to deliver our youth diversion programs which help steer young people away from the criminal justice system and gives them the tools to make better decisions in life. Your support also funds our community engagement efforts through our Youth and Family Education program. YSB staff and volunteers lead presentations and conduct expert panel discussions on important topics including teen anxiety, preventing abuse of drugs and alcohol, the effects of e-cigarettes on brain development in young people, and so many more challenges faced by youth and families. We could not do this important work without your ongoing charitable investments.Thank you. Sincerely, Ro er n,Jr. . Executive Director COTTAGE GROVE STILLWATER WOODBURY 1064 W.Point Douglas Road.Suite#201 Washington County Historic Courthouse 7876 Hudson Road.Suite#1 Cottage Grove.MN 55016 101 Pine Street West,Stillwater.MN 55082 Woodbury.MN 55125 651-458-5224 651-439-8800 651-735-9534 14 of 39 Eric Johnson From: Eric Johnson Sent: Monday,July 22,2019 2:12 PM To: 'Joe Gustafson' Cc: Andrew Ke le Wa ne Sandberg; Don Theisen;Adam Bruening; Molly O'Rourke;Cory a y e Im Subject: E. CSAH 26 Sidewalk.jus east of Holiday-at the bend Joe, Thanks Joe for the follow up. P Hopefully it will provide some value. Thanks Eric From:Joe Gustafson<Joe.Gustafson@co.washington.mn.us> Sent: Monday,July 22,2019 8:54 AM To: Eric Johnson<eajohnson@cityofoakparkheights.com> Cc:Andrew Kegley<akegley@cityofoakparkheights.com>;Wayne Sandberg<Wayne.Sandberg@co.washington.mn.us>; Don Theisen<Don.Theisen@co.washington.mn.us>;Adam Bruening<Adam.Bruening@co.washington.mn.us>; Molly O'Rourke<Moily.ORourke@co.washington.mn.us>;Cory Farver<Cory.Fa rver@co.washington.m n.us>; Mindy Leadholm <Mindy.Lead holm @co.washington.mn.us> Subject: RE:CSAH 26 Sidewalk.just east of Holiday-at the bend Hi Eric, Thank you for your patience and reminder on this issue. Although our analysis still confirms that the sight line is technically adequate,we recognize that currently,even when the vegetation is low,the sight line for a pedestrian who is looking to the south is not clear enough to make a comfortable decision to begin crossing. We would like to do some grading work to improve this sight line, but that could take some 'me. Therefore, as an interim measure,our s�crew will be installing a "Trail Crossing"warpwz warpsi n for northbound traffic ith a supplementary plaque that says"At Curve" to clarify to drivers where—t-615­57.' As noted last year, however,we would not support converting this trail crossing to a crosswalk through the use of crosswalk pavement markings. To do so would be inconsistent with other roadway crossings along this trail,and would not be expected to improve safety for users. We will also be attempting to reach out to the property owner of the St.Croix Apartments for a right of entry do some grading work to improve the sight line for the trail crossing. This would involve lowering the adjacent retaining wall and removal or replacement of some chain-link fence,along with some slope grading. Please feel free to contact me with any questions. 1 15 of 39 CM METRO CITIES Association of Metropolitan Municipalities July 11, 2019 Eric Johnson, City Administrator City of Oak Park Heights 14168 Oak Park Blvd N Oak Park Heights, MN 55082-6476 Dear Eric, The Metro Cities Board of Directors recently approved the organization's 2020 operating budget. The dues increase for 2020 is 0%. Please note that individual city dues are assessed as a percentage of LMC dues and are adjusted for population changes. For your planning purposes, 2020 membership dues for the City of Oak Park Heights will be $2,169. This is NOT AN INVOICE. Invoices will be sent in late December. Your Metro Cities Board of Directors and staff are committed to providing quality services for your dues, and your membership in Metro Cities is greatly appreciated. We look forward to serving you now and in the future. If you have any questions or need additional information,please contact me at 651-215-4002 or email patricia e,metrocitiesmn.org Since 4atrici auman Execut e Director 145 Uni�%AO Ave W 9 St.Paul,MN 55103-2044 •Phone(651)2154000 0 Fax(651)281-1299 0 www.MetroCitiesMN.org .z City of Oak Park Heights Page 1 of 14168 Oak Park Blvd. N•Oak Park Heights,MN 55082•Phone(651)439-4439•Fax(651)439-0574 7/26/19 TO: Township Clerk VIA EMAIL: clerk )baXtowmmn.org Nancy Healey 4020 McDonald Dr. Stillwater, MN 55082 RE: Oakgreen Ave. Dear Nancy: As we know the condition of Oakgreen Ave that lies within both our jurisdictions is in poor condition and such conditions will likely quickly worsen.We do have more damage as it approaches 58'Street near City Hall so that we likely cannot wait too long before some action is taken. Accordingly,our City is anticipating a possible Mill&Overlay or even a possible reconstruction of this roadway in 2020—depending on a final engineering evaluation;this will be discussed as we move into autumn. The entire length is approximately 2,300 linear feet, but only about 1,100 feet likely has a joint jurisdiction—using the middle of the roadway.These are all of course ball-park estimates—see map below. So..., might we consider a joint project on a portion of this roadway for 2020? Kind regards, �r i a Eric Johnson City Administrator Axl•�, �,. ��.a" (3tp oftlk PalelkiEhd I:RNrY�NwH�ex l wYiIrIC'ae 17 of 39 ;w ,rte �, City of Oak Park Heights 14168 Oak Park Blvd. N•Box 2007.Oak Park Heights,lvlN 55082•Phone(651)439-4439•Fax(651)439-0574 7124119 T0: Greg Tennis,Tennis Sanitation AND *''VIA-Certified Mail"' Wlliis Tennis,Tennis Sanitation 720 40 Street St.Paul Park,MN 55071 '"*Also,viani iii M i1 j g rn '.... ion c om RE: Contrail Extension—1213112022 We appreciate the work Tennis Sanitation has suppled as we are sure you appreciate the fees the City has paid and our commitments to your firm-as the City pays an estimated$190,000 annually for such services and will likely exceed$1,000,000 during the initial term of the Agreement As we know,the current Agreement runs through 12/31/19(see excerpt from Agreement below)and allows the City to extend such Agreement for up to three(3)additional years. EL TERM OF CONMACT The term of this Contract chat!be a poiod of five(5)yeas commencing January 1,2015 and coding on Daambcr 31,2019. 4lac City at its optica may c aced the seen of this Contract for a period of tb ne not to excead three(3)years beyond ttta orsghW termination dabs.City shalt provide wri#ca optica to Conu=w of its mtmt to coved this Coatract at least msnetp(90)days Prior to the tambotim of the WigbW term. At this time the City is largel satisfied with the sevices provdied and the current rate structures and we do value our collboration. Accordingly,at this time Ity will exercise such an extension for a period of 36 Months and will now expire on 12131/2022. If your o provide to me by August 15s,2019 an updated performance bond expiring not sooner than 12131/2020. la let w if you have any questions. _ T o on, inistrator C Jennifer Pinski,City Clerk Weekly Notes 1 18 of 39 7/24/2019 H o me less n ess 'i n Washington Countyl AIMMIN i 1 1 P Wa§W*ngton .Country Wasliingtion Agenda .-eco •What does it mean to be `homeless'? •Homelessness in Washington County & the Metro •Homeless Resources •Shelter Capacity in Washington County & the Metro •Overview of Community Collaboration 19 of 39 7/24/2019 ■ s � A i r r N N i N N N N• � � 1 ' gtan Hierarchy of Homeless Definitions � ' Most Restrictive Federal Definitions • Point In Time(PIT) • HUD Homeless • Wilder Survey • Chronic Homeless Minnesota Definitions "' Coordinated Entry List • Long Term Homeless • Youth Homeless "w Housing Service Agencies County Definitions Housing Outreach • Doubled Up Services Team(HOST) • Couch Hopping • At Risk of Homelessness Least Restrictive 20 of 39 2 Point in Time (PIT) Count in Washingtonangtqn County (includes sheltered, unsheltered, and doubled up) 250 227 1 179 72 O 150 d O 100 , L d M E 50 z 0 _ w2017 122018 2019 Point in Time (PIT) Count across the W �n Metro (includes sheltered, unsheltered, and doubled up) 6000 5500 5166 5062 5000 C C 0 4000 - 3400 w 3184 3013 t p 3000 2000 - - ..___ _._ Z 1345 1438 �i424 �_ .._._ _-- 1000 p 594 625" 755 Hennepin Ramsey Suburban Metro Total ■2017 R 2018 2019 21 of 39 3 7/24/2019 W&9Wngtqn Homeless Resources cod� •Homeless Outreach Services Team • Team of 5 • Staff the "Front Door" • Homeless/Housing service walk-in hours • Mon/Wed 1-3pm&Friday 10am-Noon @ Stillwater Government Center • Tues/Thurs 1-3pm @ Cottage Grove Service Center • Homeless/Housing resource phone line 651-430-6488 • Outreach • Project for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness(PATH) • Interstate Rest Areas and Higher Ground • Coordinated Entry access point j WWifii Homeless services - coir All Homeless Outreach Services Team (HOST) contacts 1800 f - 1600 ' Wt 1400 1200 1000 800 I o i 600 yio�p,: tro{ I r:iTY 400 200 474 512 426 0 2016 2016 Homeless 2017 2017 Homeless 2018 2018 Homeless L.:Phone Contacts Face to Face Contacts Identifying as Homeless 22 of 39 4 7/24/2019 WasWngt m Homeless Resources Coin •Connection to Coordinated Entry (CE) • CoC Coordinated Entry access points. • Washington County's access points are: • Singles-Washington County HOST Unit • Families-St. Andrew's Resource Center • Youth-www.ysmmn.org • Youth-St.Croix Family Resource Center(Youth Connections) • Thursdays from Noon-Spm @ St.Paul Lutheran Church Stillwater Wat'ngton Homeless Resources •Beyond Backgrounds Landlord Risk Mitigation Fund • Operates as a form of insurance to a landlord • Household must be on the Coordinated Entry list • Household must have at least one significant housing barrier • Household must be eligible to receive some form of case management for one year. • Can review process and refer here: https•//bevondbackgrounds.paperform.co/ 23 of 39 7/24/2019 Homeless Resourcesco � • Emergency Shelter • St.Andrew's(Hope for the Journey Home Shelter at Guardian Angels Church in Oakdale&St.Andrew's Family Shelter in Hugo) • Tubman Youth Shelter(24 and under) • HOST for hotel vouchers • 2 contracted beds at Higher Ground St. Paul •Youth Drop-in Centers • St. Croix Family Resource Center(Youth Connection) • Located at St. Paul Lutheran Church,609 Fifth St.S.,in Stillwater • Open Noon-6pm • Tubman Drop-in Center • Maplewood Mall MWF 8-Noon and 3-7pm;Saturday 10-5 • Northstar at Tubman Shelter M-F 3-7pm tr'n Crisis Response Unit (CRU) � t ty 651-275-7400 •CRU was created internally at the County to assist residents 24/7.. •The CRU provides: • 24/7 adult and child mental health mobile crisis services • After-hours child protection screening and response • After-hours emergency social services •CRU staff answer calls and determine how to meet an individual's needs. The team is housed in the Law Enforcement Center in Stillwater and can be'dispatched to an individual's home or another community setting. 24 of 39 6 7/24/2019 Wagton Sheltered Homelessness -St. Andrew's Shelter: Capacity 12 families 2017:37 families sheltered • average length of stay was 53 days • 2018:53 families sheltered • average length of stay was 48 days • Hotel Shelter through HOST: Capacity of 4 months maximum 0 2017:46 households (average length of stay 31 days) • 2018: 34 households (average length of stay 37 days) •Higher Ground Shelter in St. Paul • 2018: Identified 55 Washington County residents that used the shelter I F _ Was 'ngWn ofinty 120 104 100 so 80 22 F,11T.ie 60 14 Families 40 20 20 17 farnilies 8 3 SiMles 0 Scott/Carver Washington Anoka Dakota 25 of 39 7/24/2019 waS, gton 2018 Shelter Costs County Washington County Residents Sheltered Shelter Cost 70 $350,000 60 $315,842 60 — $300,000 i 50 "�I $250,000 40 37 $200,000 $195,366 30 $150,000 $120,476 20 f $1oo,aoo 10L $50,000 a -=; $o .- v HOST(hotel) Other Metro Shelters i:HOST Shelter Cost Cost to Shelter Remaining 60 Total Cost 2 ware rK , u+taceompanied w youth under age � 1 � � r 1 ■ r 8 taund housing • r r •r In Washington County. -• a r: Combined, - T households had 0 been homeless a� for 15+years 11 � v a� 26 of 39 8 7/24/2019 Hopm, llv'a p,Ho m e k� WASHINGTON •Coordinating •, • . .. Board • ■ ; • _a-•r.. .:yrs.+-y,:-;•u.rs+ao .... ::.,; ..:c:. . # M M • . •1 U �? Wawn What does this alI mean? '�oui� • Homelessness exists in Washington County and our HOST team is the best starting point in referring those in need • We're not fully meeting the shelter needs of our residents experiencing homelessness •Current shelter model (hotel vouchers) is expensive and other metro counties are actively working to expand shelter •Convening a workgroup to explore potential shelter models, costs, and operations •We're collaborating with faith community and others where we can 27 of 39 9 7/24/2019 Questions? Dumb.Dumbaco, CommunityPolicy ` 651-430-8363- Dana.Dumb. @ ■ Washington � Count�y 28 of 39 10 FIELD OF BANDS FUNDRAISER TO BENEFIT BERVICEMEAmERS,VETER"S mid T=M FAUIILiF.B � ?r Saturday, September 14, 2019; 12 NOON until 8PM FEATURING AWARD WINNING BAND, SFO, ALONG WITH THE BANDS, WESTSIDE AND BAD WEATHER. WASHINGTON CO NTV FAIRGROUNDS 12300 40th St. N., Stillwater, MN 55082 ADVANCE TICHETS $15.00; $20.00 DAY OF SHOW SIDS 12 & UNDER FREE-FAMILY FRIENDLY EVENT! �. TICKETS AVAILABLE ON WEBSITE www. 5cityyet towribbon.com EVENT WILL HAPPEN OC IMI W0U WOaHm w7e *small per ticket handling fee will be added 29 of 39 Metro Cities News 7/26/19 Page 1 of 2 CMETRO IES Member Login 8 Search our site... ®4 aUavoimn M Home Metro Cities News About Us Meetings&Events Membership Advocacy Policies&Resources MAMA Return to the blog Upcoming Events Metro Cities News 7/26/19 by:Kimberly Ciarrocchi Mon Aug 122019 Category Newsletter Tra�1^ant:':isrt ir.3cnaral Government Policy Committee Jul category:Per�rconae�tt« 26 In This Issue: Tu.AM13.2019 Municipal Revenues Policy Committee#2 • Redevelopm?nt Grant and Demolition Loan Program Applications-Due August 1 cetegory:PogeyC_fttee • DEED Broadband Grant Pre-Application Outreach-Due August 2 wed Aug 14,za19 Minnesota Housing 2021 OAP Public Comment Period Now Open-0&A and Webinar Information Metropolitan Agencles Policy Sessions Offered Committee#2 Metr000litan Council Awards 14 Livable Communities Tax Base Revitalization Grants Category:Poliry Co iltee Wed Aug 14,2019-- -"wwp•-- Housino&Economic Development Policy Committee Redevelopment Grant and Demolition Loan Program Applications-Due August 1 #2 c.tegoy:Pavy caemmee DEED's Brownfields and Redevelopment Unit is soliciting applications for grant funding for Mon Sep 9,2019 redevelopment projects through the Redevelopment Grant and Demolition Loan Programs. Tiansoortation&General Government Policy Committee Metro Cities was instrumental in securing state funding for the redevelopment grant and demolition loan programs in the 2019 legislative session.Cities with redevelopment funding-eligible sites are C°1ego1Y:P,1cY`=mft" encouraged to apply. View Full Calendar The deadline for the submission of applications is 4:00 pm on Thursday,August 1,2019. Announcements For questions regarding the application process,please contact Brownfields and Redevelopment Unit staff at 651-259-7451.More information on the Cail for Appli=ions can be found here. It's not too late tojoin a 2019 Metro cities Policy Committees.Metro Cities'policy committees annually develop DEED Broadband Grant Pre-Application Outreach-Due August 2 policy recommendations based on Input from member city Cities which plan to apply for DEED broadband development grants,prior to submitting a broadband representatives.Committees submit policy recommendations grant application,must contact all existing wireline broadband providers in the proposed project area. to the Board of Directors for This pre-application outreach requires each applicant to include a description of the proposed project review,modification and and a map of the project area with the written outreach. distribution to the general membership.The membership will Under current law,this must be completed no later than six weeks prior to the grant application deadline meet in November,prior to the of September 13,2019.That makes the last allowable date for written(email)outreach to all existing legislative session,to debate and providers in the project area to be August 2,2019. adopt Metro Cities'policies for the 2020 legislative session. Detailed Information regarding suggested format and informational details for this mandatory outreach Click. to view the schedule for is included in the 2019 Grant Instructions and Application at pages 27—30 and located on this summer and for the Ilnkto websitesign up. For questions regarding this required pre-application outreach or other grant submittal questions, please contact DEED Office of Broadband Development staff at 651-259-7610 or deed.broadbandgstate.mm us. 30 of 39 https://www.metrocitiesmn.org/index.php?option=corn dailyplanetblog&view—entry&yea... 7/26/2019 Metro Cities News 7/26/19 Page 2 of 2 Our Tweets Minnesota Housing 2021 QAP Public Comment Period Now Open-Q&A and Webinar Tweets by Information Sessions Offered @MetrcCidesMN Minnesota Housing's Board of Directors approved the proposed 2021 Qualified Allocation Plan(QAP) dltm Metro Cities and the formal comment period for the QAP is now open through August 26 at 5:00 pm. @MenocitiesMN Metropolitan Council authorizes City officials interested in learning more about proposed changes to the 2021 QAP or want to learn three Tabes:@bloomington mn, @sdoutspark and City of New more about the Qualified Allocation Plan may attend one of the following sessions: Brighton to place 2040 comprehensive plan updates into Attend MHFA's _.11 OAP in nerlon sem- on Thursday,August 1 from 1:30-2:30 pm at eflea. Minnesota Housing.This session gives those involved and interested in multifamily development the opportunity to discuss the potential changes to the 2021 QAP,and to provide feedback on Jul 10,2019 how the 2021 QAP will impact an HTC application.Register by Wednesday.July 31. • If you are new to the Housing Tax Credit(HTC)and QAP process,attend the OAP 101 Webina on Metro Claes Thursday,August B from 2-3 pm.The webinar includes a general overview of the HTC program @MetroCitiesMN and a brief summary of proposed 2021 QAP changes.Register by Wednesday.August 7. Metro Cities Housing and Economic Development A list of the proposed changes can be found on this docui°nent. Committee is holding its first meeting this afternoon. View the proposed 2021 Housing Tax Credit(HTC)Self-scoring Worksheets: 2D21 HTC Self-Scoring Worksheet-Competitive FundingRound Embed View on Twitter 2021 HTC SelLgeoring Worksheet-4%Only Comments may be submitted in person or in writing,later in August. A public hearing will be held on Monday,August 19 from 1:30-2:30 pm at Minnesota Housing.It you plan to provide comments,please let know 24 hours before the hearing.Comments are limited to 10 minutes. Written comments are due by Monday,August 26 at 5:00 pm to -sino0state.n., or by mail to Minnesota Housing,attn:Tamara Wilson,Minnesota Housing,400 Wabasha Street North,Suite 400,St. Paul,MN,55102. Metropolitan Council Awards 14 Livable Communities Tax Base Revitalization Grants Five cities will share$3 million In grant awards approved this week by the Metropolitan Council.The Tax Base Revitalization Awards to 14 projects across the metropolitan region will promote redevelopment on previously developed sites. Three tvoes of grants were funded:contamination investigation,contamination cleanup,and seeding equitable environmental development(SEED)grants which improve redevelopment opportunities in an existing or former area of concentrated poverty. The 14 sites are located in Hastings,Maple Grove,Ramsey,Minneapolis and St.Paul.More Information on the grants and specific projects .an be found here. Share this post: Metro Cities(Association of Metropolitan Municipalities) 145 University Ave W,Suite 125 St.Paul,MN 55103 651-2154000 powered by 0 iifsrebereeds 31 of 39 https://www.metrocitiesmn.org/index.php?option=corn chdlyplanetblog&view—entry&yea... 7/26/2019 LOWER ST. CROIX MANAGEMENT COMMISSION PARTNERSHIP TEAM MINUTES OF MEETING#69 May 29,2019 Oak Park Heights City Hall, Oak Park Heights,Minnesota 1. Roll call—Introductions—Sign-in The meeting was called to order by David Beaudet.Present:Beaudet, Sierra Club;Buck Malick, St. Croix County and St.Croix Scenic Coalition; Jan Cuccia,Town of Troy;Jen Sorensen,MN DNR;Byron Karns,National Park Service; Stephen Ebner, West Lakeland Township; and Jennie Boeder, Town of Troy. 2. Approval of Minutes of October 30,2018 Ebner, seconded by Beaudet,moved to approve the Minutes.Motion carried. 3. Land Use Decision Reviews a. Hudson (annexation and zoning),Palmquist:not present to give review. b. Hudson(pool variance),Beaudet:Beaudet provided his review,which is attached hereto and incorporated into the Minutes.He reported the existing home on the property was torn down and a new house was rebuilt,and a pool was constructed in the bluff line set back area.He showed a picture and site plan. Beaudet said he wanted to write a letter to the City regarding the retaining wall. Malick suggested Beaudet write the letter as the Chairperson asking if there was a variance granted to repair the retaining wall. c. 661 Quixote,Lakeland,Malick: Sorensen provided an update. She said the review could not be completed at this time. 4. Request to Managing Agencies to Schedule Commission Meeting No action taken. 5. Election to Officers Sorensen facilitated the election.Malick, seconded by Cuccia,moved to nominate David Beaudet as Chairperson.Motion carried.Beaudet, seconded by Ebner,moved to nominate Malick as Vice-Chairperson.Motion carried.Beaudet nominated Palmquist and Cuccia as the technical committee representatives.No objections were made. 6. General Riverway Announcements/Adjourn Sorensen reported that an application for a slackline for one day over the St. Croix River was made. She said DNR staff felt no permit fee was needed and gave permission for a temporary slackline. She said the DNR had a general permit with no fee similar to what was used for docks. Beaudet announced future Partnership Meeting dates. Cuccia, seconded by Malick,moved to adjourn at 8:12 p.m.Motion carried. 32 of 39 Lower St. Croix Partnership Team Land Use Action Review Checklist Applicant's last name: Melvin &Jaclyn Ashford Local government: Hudson Type of permit(s): After the Fact variance to build pool in bluff line set back area. Project description: Construct a new pool in the bluff line setback and to have four-foot setback from the bluff line. Did applicant submit adequate material to enable the local government to make a sound decision? (Rules require specific materials to be submitted, although some materials are not essential for certain types of decisions.) There is a complete application. Submitted 8-14-2018 and before the Zoning Board of Appeals on September 26 2018. Did the local government notify DNR in the proper time frame and include appropriate application materials?DNR was consulted after the fact the pool was started and comments received on September 24 2018. DNR asked that standards for variances be upheld and be within the law? Did the local government hold a proper hearing (if required)? Yes. Did the local government document its decision with appropriate findings, etc.? The findings are incomprehensible the existing home removed and pool built in existing home location 4 feet from the bluff line. Did the DNR respond in the appropriate time frame?After the fact letter after the Wisconsin DNR asked the city to issue a stop work order for the pool. The DNR provided comments about the process only and what the board had to put into the findings. What was the outcome? Variance granted to allow building a new pool in the bluff line setback, zero foot set back. The established bluff line did not match the existing bluff line with existing structure. Is the outcome consistent with protection of the river's outstandingly remarkable values (scenic, recreational,geologic)?No Reviewed 7-30-2013 Beaudet 33 of 39 Eric Johnson From: Mary Mccomber <marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Saturday,July 20,2019 12:25 PM To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd: Meet Evanston:a Mid-Sized Climate Powerhouse For weekly notes -----Original Message--- From: National League of Cities <news@nlc.org> To: marymccomber<marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Sat, Jul 20, 2019 6:04 am Subject: Meet Evanston: a Mid-Sized Climate Powerhouse View in browser L A C U i. Now _. NLC '': - The W r • � I' Meet Evanston: a Mid-Sized Climate Powerhouse Picture the scene: Approximately 1,000 ten-year-olds packed into an expansive field house, explaining to their parents, teachers and other guests what worsening climate impacts will feel like in Evanston, Illinois, and how their ideas could help mitigate these effects. i 34 of 39 � a Moo, How to Fight Discrimination Against Housing Voucher Holders Thousands of discrimination complaints are filed each year by those who use housing vouchers. Since source of income is not protected by federal law, many cities have instituted additional fair housing laws. In Indianapolis, Reviving a Sleepy Neighborhood Central State presented massive challenges for developers: ' there was little access to roads, water and sewage; and the land was covered in old and ominous patient dormitories. Yet, Indianapolis saw an opportunity. The 3 W's of a Citywide Afterschool System: Why, a; Who, and Where A growing number of cities across the country have begun to create citywide afterschool systems. • Three Things Small Cities Teach Us About Civic Engagement Small cities not only effectively harness data for actionable insight through modern technology, they do so in a way that _ any-sized city can adopt with low budget impact. Here are -- the top three lessons we can learn from small cities. News Cities across America are working together to fix the housing crisis The Hill- July 18, 2019 i 35 of 39 How are smart cities around the world impacting workplace trends? Open Access Government- July 17, 2019 Can employee ownership preserve legacy businesses in communities of color? Whyy- July 15, 2019 Announcements NLC Partner AARP has announced a total of$1.6 million for 159 grantees through their AARP Community Challenge project quick action grant program. Many projects are in NLC member cities! Learn more about them here. #AARPCommunityChallenge Events July 17 - 20 National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials Summer Conference (Jackson, Mississippi) July 24 - 27 Hispanic Elected Local Officials Summer Conference (Bridgeport, Connecticut) July 24 - 27 Women in Municipal Government Summer Conference (Bridgeport, Connecticut) September 11 - 13 Smart City Expo Atlanta (Atlanta, Georgia) November 20 - 23 NLC 2019 City Summit (San Antonio, Texas) Job Postings City Manager -- City of Pascagoula, Mississippi City Manager -- City of Kingsville, Texas City Administrator -- City of Baraboo, Wisconsin 3 36 of 39 LFA" IM N1I1ZONffFCxM*NWu- You may opt out of email communications from NLC at any time. Update your communication preferences. This message was intended for: marymccomber@aol.com 660 North Capitol Street, NW, Suite 450 Washington, DC 20001 Privacy Policy ©2018 NLC, All Rights Reserved Powered by Higher Logic 4 37 of 39 Eric Johnson From: Mary Mccomber <marymccomber@aol.com> Sent: Thursday,July 25,2019 10:45 AM To: Eric Johnson Subject: Fwd: Legislative Update - July 24, 2019 For weekly notes ----Original Message--- From: rep.shelly.christensen <rep.shelly.christensen@house.mn> To: Announcements from Representative Shelly Christensen <rep shelly_Christensen_list@ww3.house.leg.state.mn.us> Sent:Wed, Jul 24, 2019 5:02 pm Subject: Legislative Update-July 24, 2019 Represciitaflvc Shelly Christensen Tlie)��tEE�1�5E Dear Neighbors, I hope the summer has been treating you well! With the Legislature adjourned, the laws we passed this session are starting to take effect this summer. I'll be sure to update you on all the important policies and investments that will impact our community, but I wanted to take a moment here to focus on a new law you've probably heard about on the news, and that's the new "Hands-Free" law. Starting August 1st, drivers in Minnesota can only use a mobile device in a hands-free mode while behind the wheel. This year at the Minnesota Legislature, we heard of countless avoidable tragedies where distracted driving was to blame. With similar laws in other states leading to a decrease in accidents, the bipartisan legislation we passed will work to make our roads safer. The Minnesota Office of Traffic Safety offers an extensive amount of information on the new law, , but these are some of the most common questions: What can I do under the new law? i 38 of 39 The new law allows a driver to use their cell phone to make calls, text, listen to music or podcasts and get directions, but only by voice commands or single-touch activation without holding the phone. What can't I do with my phone under the new law? You may not hold your phone in your hand. Also, a driver may not use their phone at any time for video calling, video live-streaming, Snapchat, gaming, looking at video or photos stored on the phone, using non-navigation apps, reading texts and scrolling or typing on the phone. Can I ever hold my phone? Yes. Hand-held phone use is allowed to obtain emergency assistance, if there is an immediate threat to life and safety, or when in an authorized emergency vehicle while performing official duties. Can I use a GPS navigation device? Yes. GPS and other systems that can only be used for navigation are exempt from the Hands- Free law. In-car screens and systems are also exempt. In both cases, most of these systems lock when the vehicle is moving. Does the new hands-free law address smart watches? Drivers can use them as a conventional watch to check time, but smart watches are considered an electronic communications device under the hands-free law. That means the device has the same restrictions as a cell phone. Drivers can use a smart watch the same way they use a cell phone as long as it's by one-touch or voice activation. Drivers can't type, text or do the other things prohibited under the hands-free law. Are there penalties? Yes. The first ticket is $50 plus court fees and the second and later tickets are $275 plus court fees. If you have any questions about the new law or the legislative process, please feel free to contact me. During the interim I'll be back home working with neighbors to find solutions to the issues facing our community and state, and I would appreciate your input! As always, you can reach me at (651) 296-4244 or rep.shelly.ch ristensen @house.m n. I look forward to hearing from you! Sincerely, z 39 of 39