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HomeMy WebLinkAbout12-11-07 Council PacketCITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS TUESDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2007 CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA 7:00 P.M. 7:00 p.m. I. Es1r177atec1 Call to Order/Pledge of Allc 7iice/AT�proval of Aer�da limes 7:05 p.m. II. Department/Cou'lei l Liaison Reports A. Planning Commission B. Parks Commission C. Cable Comrlission D. Water Management Organizations E. Other- Liaison/Staff reports 7:10 p.m. III. Visitors/Public Comment Recycling Award (1) 'mis is an opportunity for the public to address the Cot€ned with questions a' concerns o€I issues not part of the €,egttla€� agenda. (]'lease limit conimenls to 3 minute,,; in length.) 7:15 p.m. IV. Consent A enda (Roll Call Vote) A. Approve Bills & Investtnellts B. Approve City Council Minutes —November 27, 2007 (2) C. Approve Truth in Taxation Hearing Minutes -- December 3, 2007 (3) D. 2008 Home Occupation License Renewals (4) E. Approve Resolution for Renewal of 2008 Liquor -,Tobacco, and Amusement Licenses (5) F. Approve Purchase of Fireproof Security Cabinet (G) 7:15 p.m. V. Public Hearirjg A. Resolution Approving the 2008 BLidget (7) B. Resolution Approving the 2008 Tax Levy (8) 7:30 p.m. V1. Old Business A. Adoption of Local Lodging Tax — Ordinance (9) 7:45 p.m. VII. New Business A. Receive Donation to Police Department (I0) B. WCL, Associates Inc., Planned Unit Development, Concept and General; Conditional Use I'errtlit; Subdivision; Site Plan and Design Review; and Rezoning of t1le Subject Property from 0, Open Space District to B-2, General Business District to Construct a Retail Development Including Best BUY (11) C. Additional Capital Projects for 2008 (12) D. Consider Documents for the St. Croix Transit Feasibility Study (13) 8:30 p.m. VIII. Ad'ournr1tent Page 1 of 116 This Page Is Left Intentionally Blank. Page 2 of 116 Oak Park Heights Request for Council Action Meeting Date December 11, 2007 Agenda Item Reccling Award Time Required o Agenda Placement Visitors/Public Comment Originating Department/Requestor _ Administration/Jennifer Thoen Requester's Signature Action Requested Receive Information Background/ Justification (Please indicate any previous action has been taken or if other public bodies have been advised). Page 3 of 116 CITY OF OAK PARD HEIGHTS 14168 Oak Park Boulevard No, • 11,0. Box 2007 • Oak I'M* Heights, MN 55082-2007 • Phone: 6511439-4439 • fax: 6511439-0574 December 6, 2007 Mike Moller and Mary Kay Voight 14316 56'x' St. Upper North Oak Park Heights, MN 55082 Dear Mike and Mary Kay: Thank you for participating in the City's recycling program. As an incentive to recycle and to increase fire prevention awareness, the City rewards two residents each month with their choice of an award of $25.00 or a fire extinguisher and/or smoke detector(s). Your residence was checked on Thursday, December 6, 2007 to determine if you had your recycling bin out with your regular garbage. Your recycling was out and ready for collection; therefore, you are one of this month's winners. Please contact me at 439-4439 at your convenience to arrange for delivery of the reward of your choice. On behalf of the Oak Park Heights City Council, thank you for participating in the City's recycling program. Congratulations! Jennifer Thoen Administrative Secretary/Deputy Clerk Tree City U.S.A. Oak Park Heights Request for Council Action Meeting Date December 11, 2007 Agenda Item Approve City Council Minutes—November 27, 2007 Time Required o Agenda Placement Originating Departme Requester's Signature Action Requested Approve Background/Justification (Please indicate any previous action has been taken or if other public bodies have been advised). Page 5 of 116 CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS 7:00 P.M. TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2007 CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES I. Call to Order/Pledge of Allegiance/Approval of Agenda: The meeting was called to order at 7:09 p.m. by Mayor Beaudet. Present: Council ernbers Abrahamson, Doerr, McCornber and Swenson. Staff present: Administrator Johnson, Finance Director Holst, City Attorney Nodes, City Engineer Postler, and City Planner Richards. Absent: None, Mayor Beaudet moved New Business Item C to Consent Agenda as Item E. "Park Lighting" was added as Old Business Item D, "5502 Osgood Avenue Property" was added as Old Business Item D, and "SWAT Use of Osgood Property" was added to New Business. Councilmember McComber, seconded by Councilmember Swenson, moved to approve the agenda as amended. Carried 5-0. II. Department/Council Liaison Reports: A. Planning Commission: City Planner Richards reported that the last meeting of the Planning Commission was held on November S, 2007. He reported that there was one public hearing on the Best Buy/Brackey plan. He reported that the next meeting will be on December 13, 2007. He stated that no new applications have come in and that the Comprehensive Planning Committee will be meeting on that date prior to the PIanning COlmmisslon meeting. B. Parks Commission: Councilmember McComber reported that the Parks Commission met prior to the City Council meeting and that the next meeting will be held on December 17, 2007. C. Cable Commission: Councilmember Doerr reported that the next meeting of the Cable Commission will be on December 19, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. D. Water Management Organizations/Middle St. Croix: Mayor Beaudet reported that the Middle St. Croix WMO's next meeting will be on December 13, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. at the Washington Conservation District Office. E. Other Liaison/Staff Reports: Councilmember McComber reported that she received a lot of material while at the National League of Cities Conference and had some information for the Police Department and Page 6 of 116 City Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2007 Page 2 of 6 Public Works. She also reported that she was elected to the Board of Directors for Women in Municipal Government, III. Visitors/Public Comment: Recycling Award: Administrative Secretary Thoen reported that Butch and Mindy Clayton of 5636 Perkins Avenue N. were chosen as the recycling award winners. IV. Consent Agenda: A. Approval of Bills & Investments B. Approval of City Council Minutes -- November 7, 2007 C. Approve Wage Step Increase and 2008 Salary Adjustments D. Approve a $500.00 Payment to Mr. Larry Dauffenbach for his Services Related to the Chief of Police Employment Process E. Approve 10`x} (and Final) Pay Request - $15,269..18 and Accept the Project as Complete from Contractor Burschville Construction for the Nova Scotia and Norwich Ave. Street and Utility Improvement Project Councilmernber Doerr pulled Item B from the Consent Agenda. Councilmember Swenson, seconded by Councilmember McComber, moved to approve the remainder of Consent Agenda. Roll call vote taken. Carried 5-0. Mayor Beaudet, seconded by Councilmember Swenson, moved to approve the November 7, 2007 Minutes. Carried 4-0-1, Doerr abstained. V. Public HearinjZs: The City Council held a public hearing regarding a proposed increase in off -sale and on -sale liquor license fees. Finance Director Holst recommended that off -sale license fees be increased from $100 to $240 and that on -sale license fees increase 10.7 percent. Jim Wright, Quartermaster for the VFW in Oak Park Heights came forward and stated that he objects to the proposed increase in on -sale license fees. He stated that the VFW has notices a loss in sales since the smoking ban took effect on October 1, 2007. He reported that the City did not allow the VFW to obtain a club license. None of the councilmembers recalled a request for a club license by the VFW. Councilrnember Abrahamson requested staff include a summary on club licenses in weekly notes. VI. Old Business: A. Increase in Off -Sale and On -Sale Liquor License Pees: Councilinember• McComber, seconded by Councilmember Doerr, moved to increase off Page 7 of 116 City Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2007 Page 3 of 6 sale license fees to $240 and to increase on -sale license fees by five percent as opposed to the 10.7 percent proposed. Carried 5-0. Mayor Beaudet, seconded by Councilmember Doerr, moved to direct Finance Director Holst to revise the budget for revenues and to adjust the levy accordingly. Carried 5-0. B. City Hall facility — Resolution Giving Preliminary Approval for Issuance of up to $7.5 Million in Capital Improvement Plan Bonds Consistent with the Adopted 2008-2012 Capital Improvement Plan: Mayor Beaudet reported that the Resolution allows the bond counsel to prepare documentation to issue bonds but that the amount will be determined at a later date. City Administrator Johnson reviewed the vital issues of the current city hall that need attention. Ann and Kevin Simpson came forward and stated that they canvassed the neighborhood and a lot of people in the area object to having their taxes raised for this purpose and were unaware that the City was considering the idea. Mr. Simpson stated that they would like the residents to be able to vote on the issue. They stated that they do not disagree that a renovation may be necessary but would like to see the bond issue capped at $2 million. Mayor Beaudet explained that the amount of the bond issue will be determined at a later date, most likely one of the council meetings in January. Councilmcn-rber Swenson noted that the building has several issues that need to be addressed now or in the near future and it came down to whether the council wanted to renovate an old building or build a new building that will last for many years. Mayor Beaudet stated that the proposed Resolution in the council's packet should be revised to state that the council authorizes the bond counsel to prepare paperwork for a bond issue and obtain a credit rating for the City. He stated that the idea has been around for almost a year and that the issue was in the fall newsletter and every residence was sent a postcard inviting them to a public hearing. Councilmember Swenson, seconded by Mayor Beaudet, moved to approve the Resolution. Mayor Beaudet, seconded by Councilmember Swenson, moved to amend the Resolution to state that the City Council authorizes the bond counsel to prepare paperwork and obtain a credit rating for up to a 7.5 million bond issue. Attorney Nodes added that the paperwork and credit rating be prepared for the City Council to review, not bonding agencies. Mayor Page 8 of 116 City Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2007 Page 4 of 6 Beaudet and Councilmember Swenson accepted that addition to the motion. Carried 4-1, McComber opposed. On the main motion, roll call vote taken. Carried 4-1, McComber opposed. Councilmember Abrahamson stated that he would like to see that less money is spent and that he has pushed for other options to be considered. Councihrrember McComber stated she was concerned that the city hall project would end up taking longer than expected and that somehow more money than anticipated would be spent. Councilmember Doerr requested that residents read the mail they receive from the City. Mayor Beaudet requested that staff obtain an estimate for soil boring. City Engineer Postler stated that it would cost roughly $5,000 to $6,000. C. Ordinance Regarding.CV13. and Lodging Tax: City Administrator Johnson stated that the council was provided with a copy of the City of Stillwater's ordinance relating to the CVB and Lodging; Tax. He stated that lie had hoped the council would receive the ordinance prior to that evening's meeting so that they had a chance to review it. Mayor Beaudet stated that the issue will be addressed at the December 3, 2007 TNT blearing. D. Park Lighting. Councilmember McComber reported that this issue came before the Council in October and that the council had requested that the Parks Commission carne up with a recommendation on park lighting. She stated that the Parks Commission had requested that Public Works Director Ozzello obtain pricing on installing motion sensor lights for four of the parks. McComber reported that Public Works Director Ozzello provided the Parks Commission with a proposal of $2,500 for lights at the four parks. Councilmember Abrahamson requested that Public Works Director Ozzello provide the council with a memo on the issue. Councilmember Doerr, seconded by Mayor Beaudet, moved to postpone this issue to the next council meeting. Carried 5-0, E. 5502 Osgood Avenue Property: City Administrator Johnson reported that the Parks Commission had recommended trails be installed in two phases: the first phase would meander through the property and end on the north side of the property parallel to 55"' Street, and the second phase would connect to the Valley View Park entrance by way of tunnel under Osgood Avenue. He stated that the Parks Commission also recommended the council implement Arborist Widin's recommendations for completion of a Page 9 of 116 City Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2007 Page 5 of 6 tree inventory, tree thinning and pruning, and buckthorn removal. City Administrator .Johnson also reported that the Parks Commission made a recommendation that the City keep the property but sell or remove the home from the property. Mayor Beaudet, seconded by Councilmember Doerr, moved to accept the Parks Commission's recommendations. Carried 5-0. Councilmember Swenson requested that the City Administrator meet with the homeowner to the north to inform them of what is going on. VII. New Business: A. Lucy Winton Ball Fields — Financial Request: Colleen Danford, Director of the Lucy Winton Bell Athletic Fields came forward and gave a presentation. She requested that the City of Oak Park Heights donate $5,032.00 per year for the next five years to the Lucy Winton Bell Athletic Fields program. Councilmember McComber stated she would be inclined to hold off on approving the request until after budget discussions take place. Mayor Beaudet, seconded by Councilmember Swenson, moved to have Financial Director Holst adjust the budget up to $5,032.00 in the levy and add a line in the Parks Commission budget for a grant to Lucy Winton Bell Athletic Fields. Carried 3-2, Councilmembers Doerr and Abrahamson opposed. B. Approve Financial Accounting Policies & Procedures: Councilmember Swenson, seconded by Mayor Beaudet, moved to approve the Financial Accounting Policies and Procedures. Carried 5-0. C, WCL Associates Inc. Planned Unit Development, Concept and General• Conditional Use Permit-, Subdivision• Site Plan and Design Review• and Rezoning.of the Subject Property from O Open Space District to B-2 General Business District to Construct a Retail Development Including Best Buy: City Planner Richards reported that the applicant requested that this issue be postponed because Best Buy has not given its final approval. He reported that WC1, Associates, Inc. submitted a letter extending the 120 -day review period another 35 days. Richards reported that Bob Brackey and Jim McGovern requested that the City Council not take action at this time. Councilmember Swenson, seconded by Councilmember McComber, moved to table the issue to the February 13, 2008 City Council meeting Page 10 of 116 City Council Meeting Minutes November 27, 2007 Page 6 of 6 with provision that the applicant can request this matter be placed on an earlier agenda if desired. Carried 5-0. Jim McGovern came forward and stated that there is a possibility that the issue can come before council sooner than February 13, 2008. Mayor Beaudet requested that they provide a written summary on the opposition to the trail. D. Issue Revenue Obligation Bonds — Boutwells Landing: City Administrator Johnson reported that the current proposal is to issue two separate $10 million notes. Councilmember Doerr, seconded by Councilmember Abrahamson, moved to approve the Resolution and to authorize the City Administrator and the Mayor to sign. Roll call vote taken. Carried 5-0. Mayor Beaudet, seconded by Councilmember Abrahamson, moved to reduce the fee to 0.1 percent. Carried 5-0. Allen Black of VSSA came forward and thanked the council. E. SWAT Use of Osgood Property: Councilmember Swenson, seconded by Councilmember McComber, moved to allow the SWAT use of the house at 5502 Osgood Avenue for drills. Carried 5-0. Councilmember Abrahamson requested that the neighbors be notified of what is going on. V111. Adjournment: Councilmember McComber, seconded by Councihriember Doerr, moved to adjourn at 8:42 p.m. Carried 5-0. Respectfully submitted, Jennifer 'Thoen Administrative Secretary/Deputy Clerk Approved as to Content and Form, David Beaudet Mayor Page 11 of 116 This Page Is Left Intentionally Blank. Page 12 of 116 Oak Park Heights Request for Council Action Meeting Date December 11, 2007 Agenda Item APprove Truth in Taxation Hearing Minutes — December 200 Time Required o Agenda Placement Consent Originating Departmei Requester's Signature Action Requested ARprove Background/ Justification (Please indicate any previous action has been taken or if other public bodies have been advised). Page 13 of 116 CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS 5:00 P.M., MONDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2007 TRUTH IN TAXATION HEARING MINUTES I. Call to Ordei•: The hearing was called to order at 5:00 p.m. by Mayor Beaudet. Present: Couneilmembers Abrahamson, Doerr, McComber and Swenson. Staff' present: Administrator Johnson, City Attorney Vierling, Finance Director Hoist and Public Works Director Ozzello. Absent: None. II. Truth in Taxation Hearing: Finance Director Hoist reviewed the budget process. Holst outlined revenue sources and General Bund expenditures. She reported that licenses and permits have decreased and LGA reduced from seven percent to two percent. She explained that expenditures increased in part because the City is proposing to pay the entire cost of every resident's sanitation charges and for capital projects. Tax levy and tax capacity were reviewed. Finance Director Hoist stated that very few properties increased in value, some properties received no increase, and some received a decrease in assessed value due to the current market conditions. Jim Kremer of 5475 Oakgreen Place came forward and questioned why the City would take over the residents' garbage and recycling charges. He stated that he felt that is a cost that residents should bear because they use the service, and he was concerned because the budget was increasing 22.2 percent. Mayor Beaudet explained that the City is in a position to do so because of the tax capacity due to the Xcel Energy King Plant. He explained that residents using the middle size container will be saving approximately $120.00 per year, and that a home with a value of $250,000 will see an increase in property taxes of approximately $15.07. No further public comments were made. Councilmember Doerr, seconded by Councihmember Swenson, moved to close the Truth in Taxation Hearing. Carried 5-0. Mayor Beaudet announced that a continuation hearing was not needed and that the budget and levy adoption would be certified at the next City Council Meeting on Tuesday, December 11, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. II. Park LightinjZ: Public Works Director Ozzello explained that the Parks Commission recommended that motion sensor lights be installed on the park shelter buildings for added security after the park shelters close. He reported that he received a rough estimate from a local electrician for halogen motion sensor lights that would be on a timer. He stated that the bulb would be recessed so a cut-off can be established. He reported that the estimate came in at $2,500 for materials and installation. Ozzello stated that the Parks Commission also recommended that lights be installed on the green space to the south of City Hall. He stated that he PagecIA of 116 City Council Meeting Minutes December 3, 2007 Page 2 of 2 Xcel Energy to obtain an estimate for the lights. He stated that Xcel Energy would operate the lights on a 20 year system which Ozzello estimated would cost the City approximately $950 per year. Mayor Beaudet stated that he wasn't sure that the green space needed much more lighting than is received from the City Hall parking lot lights. Councilmember MCComber suggested holding off on the green space lighting issue until City Hall plans are underway but stated she would like to go ahead with the motion sensor lights in the parks. Mayor Beaudet suggested the issue be postponed to January to discuss a spring install. Councilmember Abrahamson, seconded by Mayor Beaudet, moved to postpone to January. Carried 5-0. Councilmember Swenson requested an update on the water main break. Public Works Director Ozzello stated that the crew has been out working on the issue all day and that work was likely completed. Councilmember Doerr stated lie had a problem with an employee on overtime plowing the trail. Mayor Beaudet requested that the City Administrator prepare a memo and that this matter be placed on the next council meeting; agenda. Councilmember Doerr agreed. 111:. Adjournment: Councilmember Swenson, seconded by Councilmernber Abrahamson, moved to adjourn at 5:52 p.m. Carried 5-0. Respectfully submitted, Jennifer Thoen Administrative Secretary/Deputy Clerk Approved as to Content and Dorm, David Beaudet Mayor Page 15 of 116 This Page is Left Intentionally Blank. Page 16 of 116 f: Oak Park Heights Request for Council Action Meeting Date: December 11 2007 Agenda Item Title: 2008 Home Occupation License Renewals Agenda Placement: Consent Agenda Originating Department/Requestor: Julie Flultman Administration Requester's Signature: Action Requested: Background/Justification. (Please indicate if any previous action has been taken or if other public bodies have advised) ➢ Renewal of Hone Occupation Licenses is required annually. ➢ The following seek renewal for 2008 and have submitted their renewal fee: Dave Friedrich - Welding Services Daniel Hatalla — Valley of Gifts Sharon Haynes - Beauty Salon Mark Powell - Upholstery Services David Belz - Valley floral Co. Phyllis Smith -- Garment Alterations Page 17 of 116 This Page G Left Intentionally Blank. Page 18 0 116 Oak Park Heights Request for Council Action Meeting Date December 11 2007 Agenda Item Title Approve Resolution for Renewal of 2008 Liquor, Tobacco_, and Amusement Licenses Time Required Agenda Placement Consent Originating Department/Requestor Finance - Judy Holst DeputyDepujy Clerk Finance Director Requester's Signature Action Requested Approve Resolution renewing 2008 Liquor, Tobacco and Amusement Licenses Background/ Justification (Please indicate any previous action, financial implications including budget information and recommendations). See Attached. Page 19 of 116 CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS RESOLUTION 07-12-68 A RESOLUTION APPROVING PROPOSED ANNUAL LIQUOR, TOBACCO, AND AMUSEMENT LICENSES WHEREAS, the City Council for the City of Oak Park Heights has received applications for the year 2008 liquor, tobacco, amusement, and bingo licenses from businesses located within the City limits. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Oak Park Heights that the following licenses (See Exhibit A) are hereby approved. Passed by the City Council of Oak Park Heights this 11th day of December, 2007. David Beaudet Mayor Attest: Eric A. Johnson City Administrator Page 20 of 116 EXHIBIT A CITY OF OAK PARK.HEIGHTS 2008 LICENSES Off -Sale Liquor Licenses LaPalao Companies LLC dba Liquor Time Oaks Wine & Spirits Inc. dba Oaks Wines & Spirits Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. dba Wal-Mart Store #1861 On -Sale Liquor Licenses Apple American Ltd Ptsp of MN dba Applebee's Neighborhood Grill/Bar Blazin Wings Inc. dba Buffalo Wind Wings Grill & Bar Phil's Tara Hideaway Inc. dba Club Tara Hideaway RT Minneapolis Franchise, LLC., dba Ruby Tuesday Letru Inc. dba Stillwater Bowl & Lounge Stillwater Eagles Aerie 94 dba Stillwater Eagles VFW 323 dba Greeder-Hinds Comfort Post On -Sale Sundav Liquor Licenses Apple American Ltd Ptsp of MN dba Applebee's Neighborhood Grill/Bar Blazin Wings Inc. dba Buffalo Wind Wings Grill & Bar Phil's Tara Hideaway Inc. dba Club Tara Hideaway RT Minneapolis Franchise, LLC., dba Ruby Tuesday Letru Inc. dba Stillwater Bowl & Lounge Stillwater Eagles Aerie 94 dba Stillwater Eagles VFW 323 dba Greeder-Hinds Comfort Post On -Sale Wine License Dailey Incorporated dba Carbones Pizza Chipotle Mexican Grill of Colorado, LLC dba Chipotle Mexican Grill Ming Sun Chu dba Stone Lake Restaurant On -Sale Nan -Intoxicating Liquor License Dailey Incorporated dba Carbones Pizza Chipotle Mexican Grill of Colorado, LLC dba Chipotle Mexican Grill Sky Ventures LLC dba Pizza Hut #013822 Ming Sun Chu dba Stone Lake Restaurant Page 21 of 116 City of Oak Park Heights 2008 Licenses Wage 2 Off -Sale Non -Intoxicating Liquor License LaPalao Companies LLC dba Liquor Time Oaks Wine & Spirits Inc. dba Oaks Wines & Spirits Speedway SuperAmerica LLC dba SuperAmerica #4549 Speedway SuperAmerica LLC dba SuperAmerica #4453 Wal-Mart Stores Inc. dba Wal-Mart Supercenter #1861 Amusement Licenses Letru Inc. dba Stillwater Bowl & Lounge Superior Vending for Stillwater Eagles Aerie #94 Theisen Vending Company for Wal-Mart Store #1861 Tobacco Licenses Holiday Stationstore #237 LaPalao Companies LLC dba Liquor Time Oaks Wine & Spirits Inc. dba Oaks Wines & Spirits Speedway Superamerica #4453 Speedway Superamerica #4549 Walgreens #06916 Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. dba Wal-Mart Store #1861 Bingo Licenses Stillwater Eagles Aerie 94 dba Stillwater Eagles VFW 323 dba Greedcr-Hinds Comfort Post Page 22 of 116 Oat{ Park Heights Request for Council Action Meeting Date December 11 Time Required: 1 Minute Agenda Item Title:_ _ Approve Purchase of FIREPROOF Security Cabinet Agenda Placement Consent Originating Department/Regp6)4,6r X& Johnson, City Admini Requester's Signature Action Requested Background/Justification (Please 'indicate if any previous action has been taken or if other public bodies have advised); At this time, the City is in need of another FIREPROOF Security cabinet to store sensitive items such as personnel and health (HIPPA) documents as well as closed -session minutes and other sensitive documents. Current cabinets are full. A cabinet of this type and of adequate size is $1,200 for 4 drawers legal 22 inch inside depth the shipping is free, but this does not include tax. At this time there is $302 left in the Administration category and the balance can be withdrawn from the unallocated Budgeted Project fund category. Recommendation: Approve rip to $1,300 for the purchase of a new FIREPROOF Security Cabinet Page 23 of 116 This Page is Left Intentionally Blank. Page 24 of 116 Oak Park Heights Request for Council Action v,`✓f„ Meeting Date December 11,2007 Agenda Item Title Resolution Approving the 2008 Budget Time Required 10 Minutes Agenda Placement New Business Originating Department/Requestor Finance -Judy Holst, Deputy Clerk/ Finance Director Requester's Signature Action Requested Approve Resolution for 2008 Budget Background/ Justification (Please indicate any previous action, financial implications including budget information and recommendations). Several changes to the Preliminary Budget were authorized at the November 7, 2007 budget worksession and the November 27, 2007 Council meeting. I have incorporated those changes into the 2008 budget: Revenues 1. Reduce General Property Taxes -Current 8v Delinquent $44,300 to $3,367,480 2. Reduce Liquor Licenses $3,670 Expenditures 1. Increase Parks -Grant to Lucy Winton Athletic Complex $5,032 2. Adjusted transfers out - total transfers out reduced $53,000 to $867,000 a. $95,000 added to Transfers Out to Street Reconstruction, total transfer to Street Reconstruction - $320,000 b. $77,000 added to Transfers Out to be designated to a Storm Sewer Renewal/ Replacement Fund C. $225,000 reduced from Transfers Out to Budgeted Projects Fund -Unallocated, total transfers to Budgeted Projects Fund - $470,000 A 20.7% increase is proposed for the General Fund expenditure budget. The main contributing factor to the budget increase is increased transfers to the Budgeted Projects Fund, Street Reconstruction Fund, and Storm Sewer Renewal/ Replacement Fund for future capital improvements, future street reconstruction, and future storm sewer replacement and an increase in sanitation reflecting a 100% subsidy of the residential garbage collection. The transfers to other funds increased $374,000 (74%). Other increases to expenditures were Mayor & Council budget (32.4%) for professional services and conferences, salary increases (3% to 5%), increased fuel/energy costs, increased park maintenance for the addition of Autumn Hills park shelter and new park property, and general inflation. The 2008 proposed budget amount is $3,969,172. Proposed 2008 Summary Budgets for the General Fund and Utility Funds are attached. One copy of the detailed Proposed Budget is available for review. Page 25 of 116 Proposed 2008 General .Fund Revenue & Expenditure Budget Summary 2007 2008 Increase/ Increase/ Department Budgeted Requested Decrease Decrease Revenues: Taxes $2,809,655 $3,387,480 $577,825 20.57% Special Assessments $0 $0 $0 0.00% Business Licenses -Permits $32,005 $31,915 -$90 -0.28% Non -Business Licenses -Permits $155,600 $151,375 -$4,225 -2.72% Fines & Forfeits $60,500 $70,500 $10,000 16.53% Intergovernmental Revenue $91,984 $101,056 $9,072 9.86% Charges for Services $68,200 $67,040 -$1,160 -1.70% Miscellaneous Revenues $145,390 $160,000 $14,610 10.05% Totals $3,363,334 $3,969,366 $606,032 18.02% Expenditures: Mayor & Council $75,160 $99,510 $24,350 32.40% City Administration $212,360 $221,490 $9,130 4.30% Legal $30,000 $30,000 $0 0.00% General Management & Building $84,400 $90,700 $6,300 7.46% Elections $3,390 $11,940 $8,550 252.21% Finance $220,265 $228,035 $7,770 3.53% Computer $22,470 $23,000 $530 2.36% Audit $16,500 $21,450 $4,950 X00% Insurance $324,795 $319,810 -$4,985 -1.53% Assessing $19,035 $22,000 $2,965 15.58% Planning & Zoning $30,050 $31,650 $1,600 5.32% Engineering $27,000 $27,000 $0 0.00% Building Inspections $123,150 $126,350 $3,200 2.60% Police $997,700 $1,083,500 $85,800 8.60% Fire $133,125 $139,555 $6,430 4.83% Civil Defense $5,100 $5,100 $0 0.00% Animal Control $1,650 $1,650 $0 0.00% Public Works -Street Maintenance $51,705 $61,245 $9,540 18.45% Public Works -Snow Removal $93,500 $97,500 $4,000 4.28% Public Works -Street Lighting $60,800 $60,800 $0 0.00% 'free Removal/Planting $40,530 $47,355 $6,825 16.84% Sanitation & Waste $76,800 $162,300 $85,500 111.33% Parks $134,745 $180,232 $45,487 33.76% Council Contingency $10,000 $10,000 $0 0.00% Transfers Out $493,000 $867,000 $374,000 75.86% Totals $3,287,230 $3,969,172 $681,942 20.75% Revenues over/under expenditures $76,104 $194 Page 26 of 116 12/6/2007 Page 1 Proposed 2008 Water Utility Fund Revenue & Expenditure Summary Expenditures: Personal Services $136,410 $147,160 $10,750 7.88% Contractual Services 2007 2008 Increase Increase/ Department Budgeted Requested (Decrease) Decrease Fixed Charges $57,605 $61,800 $4,195 7.28% Revenues: $0 $30,000 $30,000 100.00% Licenses & Permits $3,800 $3,800 $0 0.00% Charges for Services $3,000 $3,000 $0 0.00% Customer Collections $450,400 $495,440 $45,040 10.00% Miscellaneous Revenues $21,000 $28,000 $7,000 33.33% Totals $478,200 $530,240 $52,040 10.88% Expenditures: Personal Services $136,410 $147,160 $10,750 7.88% Contractual Services $60,650 $59,380 -$1,270 -2.09% Material & Supplies $22,700 $25,360 $2,660 11.72% Fixed Charges $57,605 $61,800 $4,195 7.28% Capital Outlay $0 $30,000 $30,000 100.00% Other Expenses $321,250 $337,260 $16,010 4.98% Totals $598,615 $660,960 $62,345 10,41% Revenues over/under expenditures -$120,415 -$130,720 Page 27 of 116 12/6/2007 Page 2 Proposed 2008 Sewer Utility Fund Revenue & Expenditure Summary Expenditures: Personal Services $86,335 $93,170 $6,835 7.92% Contractual Services 2007 2008 Increase Increase/ Department Budgeted Requested (Decrease) Decrease Fixed Charges $38,235 $38,820 $585 1.53% Revenues: $0 $30,000 $30,000 100.00% Licenses & Permits $800 $800 $0 0.00% Charges for Services $0 $0 $0 0.00% Customer Collections $707,700 $708,000 $300 0.04% Miscellaneous Revenues $16,000 $22,400 $6,400 40.00% Totals $724,500 $731,200 $6,700 0.92% Expenditures: Personal Services $86,335 $93,170 $6,835 7.92% Contractual Services $390,930 $425,055 $34,125 8.73% Material & Supplies $5,250 $7,800 $2,550 48.57% Fixed Charges $38,235 $38,820 $585 1.53% Capital Outlay $0 $30,000 $30,000 100.00% Other Expenses $190,170 $124,280 -$65,890 -34.65% Totals $710,920 $719,125 $8,205 1.15% Revenues over/under expenditures $13,580 $12,075 Page 28 of 116 12/6/2007 Page 3 Proposed 2008 Storm Sewer Utility Fund Revenue & Expenditure Summary Department 2007 Budgeted 2008 Requested Increase (Decrease) Increase/ Decrease Revenues: $5,020 23.63% $1,575 $2,875 Customer Collections $73,300 $73,900 $600 0.82% Miscellaneous Revenues $4,450 $6,300 $1,850 41.57% Totals $77,750 $80,200 $2,450 3.15% Expenditures: Personal Services Contractual Services Material & Supplies Fixed Charges Capital Outlay Other Expenses Totals Revenues over/under expenditures $17,715 $19,130 $1,415 7.99% $21,240 $26,260 $5,020 23.63% $1,575 $2,875 $1,300 82.54% $5,335 $5,590 $255 4.78% $0 $0 $0 100.00% $5,880 $6,080 $200 3.40% $51,745 $59,935 $8,1.90 15.83% $26,005 12/6/2007 Page 4 $20,265 Page 29 of 116 Proposed 2008 Sanitation Fund Revenue & Expenditure Summary Expenditures: Contractual Services $152,000 $0 o/a $100 2007 2008 Increase Increase/ Department Budgeted Requested (Decrease) Decrease Revenues over/under expenditures $21,200 $0 Revenues: Customer Collections $97,100 $0 -$97,100 -100.00% Miscellaneous Revenues $76,800 $0 -$76,800 -100.00% Totals $173,900 $0 -$173,900 -100.00% Expenditures: Contractual Services $152,000 $0 Material & Supplies $100 $0 Other Expenses $600 $0 Totals $152,700 $0 Revenues over/under expenditures $21,200 $0 12/6/2007 Page 5 -$152,000 -$1.00 -$600 -100.00% 100.00% -100.00% -$152,700 -100.00% Page 30 of 116 RESOLUTION 07-12-66 CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE 2008 BUDGET WHEREAS, the City Staff has prepared and submitted to the City Council the proposed budget for calendar year 2008; and, WHEREAS, the City Council for the City of Oak Park Heights has determined that the proposed budget as submitted by the City Staff is in the best interests of the citizens of the City of Oak Park Heights. NOW, THEREFORE, BE 1T RESOLVED, by the City Council for the City of Oak Park Heights: That the 2008 budget is hereby approved as presented by the City Finance Director in the total General Fund amount of $3,969,172.00. Passed by the City Council for the City of Oak Park Heights this 11th day of December 2007. Attest: Eric A. Johnson Administrator David Beaudet, Mayor Page 31 of 116 This Page Is Left Intentionally Blank. Page 32 of 116 Oak Park Heights Request for Council Action Meeting Date December 11, 2007 Agenda Item Title Resolution Approving the 2008 Tax Lew Time Required 5 Minutes Agenda Placement New Business Originating Department/Requestor Finance -Judy Holst Deputy Clerk Finance Director Requester's Signature Action Requested Approve Resolution for 2008 Tax Levies Background/ Justification (Please indicate any previous action, financial implications including budget information and recommendations). The proposed General Fund Tax Levy for 2008 is $3,367,480. This represents a 20.7% increase over the 2007 tax levy. A copy of the Resolution for the 2008 General Fund Tax Levy in the amount of $3,367,480 is attached. Page 33 of 116 RESOLUTION 07-12-67 CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE 2008 GENERAL FUND LEVY WHEREAS, the City Staff has prepared and submitted to the City Council the proposed general fund levy for calendar year 2008; and, WHEREAS, the City Council for the City of Oak Park Heights has determined that the proposed general fund levy as submitted by the City Staff is in the best interests of the citizens of the City of Oak Park Heights. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council for the City of Oak Park Heights that the City Administrator is hereby authorized and directed to certify to the Washington County Tax Accounting and Research Department the General Fund levy for the City of Oak Park Heights for calendar year 2008 in the amount of $3,367,480.00. Passed by the City Council for the City of Oak Park Heights this 11th day of December 2007. Attest: Eric A. Johnson Administrator David Beaudet, Mayor Page 34 of 116 Oak Park Heights Request for Council Action Meeting Date December 11`h, 2007 'Time Required: 5 Minutes Agenda Item Title. Adoption. of Local Lodging Tax - Ordinance Agenda Placement Originating Requester's Signature Action Requested Background/Justification bodies have advised): J a§� indicate if any previous action has been taken or if other public As the Council has discussed on previous occasions, attached is an ordinance for consideration that would adopt a 3% Doom Tax on all lodging rooms in the City, specifically rooms at the AmericInn and the Cover Park Manor. Items to note: ® The tax is 3% on all gross receipts and must be colleted by the operator, e The tax is in effect until 12/31/2010 — three years. ® Generated taxes must be paid to the City within 30 days of the end of each quarter. ® Penalty structure is included in the event funds are not paid or if there are errors determined. ® 95% generated funds must be used for tourism and promotion of the City pursuant to MN law, ® Further agreements are necessary to actually fund the Convention and Visitors Bureau Page 35 of 116 ORDINANCE NO. AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF OAK PARD HEIGHTS ENACTED TO ESTABLISH A LOCAL LODGING TAX THE CITY COUNCIL FOR THE CITY OF OAK PARD HEIGHTS, WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA DOES ORDAIN: SECTION 1. AMENDMENT. THAT THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS IS HEREBY AMENDED TO ADD A CHAPTER 1411 ENTITLED "LOCAL LODGING TAX" PROVIDING THE FOLLOWING: 1411.010 PURPOSE. In order to increase commerce and to provide for a vibrant City atmosphere that will attract tourism and convention business to the City, it is essential that the City be marketed and promoted by a local convention and tourist bureau. 1411.020 LODGING TAX ESTABLISHMENT. In furtherance of that purpose, and pursuant to Minnesota Statutes §469.190, a tax of 3% is hereby imposed on the gross receipts generated within the City from the furnishing for consideration of lodging at hotels, motels, rooming houses, tourist courts or resorts, other than the renting or leasing of lodging for a continual period of 3 0 days or more. 1. COLLECTION. Any person, business entity, corporation, partnership or association (Operator) that provides lodging to others must collect the tax at the time lodging charges are paid. The amount of tax must be separately stated from the lodging charges and held in trust for the City until remitted to the City. 2. PAYMENTS AND RETURNS. The taxes imposed by this Ordinance must be paid by the Operator to the City quarterly not later than thirty (30) days after the end of the calendar quarter in which the taxes were collected. At the time of payment, the Operator Page 36 of 116 must submit a return upon forms provided by the City. The return must contain the following minimum information: a. The total amount of rent collected for lodging during the period covered by the return. b. The amount of tax required to be collected and due for the period. e. The signature of the person filing the return or that of his agent duly authorized in writing. d. The period covered by the return. e. The amount, if any, of uncollectible rental charges subject to the lodging tax. The Operator may offset against the taxes payable with respect to any reporting period, the amount of taxes imposed by this Ordinance previously paid as a result of any lodging transaction, the consideration for which became uncollectible, and exclude from charges subject to the tax, any person whose occupancy is beyond the power of the City to tax by reason of the federal law or international treaty. 1411.030 EXAMINA`T'ION OF RETURN ADJUSTMENTS, NO'T'ICES AND DEMANDS. The City shall, after a return is filed, examine the return and make any examination of the records and accounts of the Operator making the return deemed necessary for determining its correctness. The tax computed on the basis of the examination is the tax to be paid. If the tax due is found to be greater than that paid, the excess must be paid to the City within ten (10) days after receipt of a notice thereof given either personally or sent by registered mail to the address shown on the return. If the tax paid is greater than the tax found to be due, the excess must be refunded by the City to the Operator who paid the tax within ten (10) days after determination of the refund. -2- Page 37 of 116 14111.040 FAILURE TO FILE A RETURN. Subd. 1. If any Operator required by this Ordinance to file a return fails to do so within the time prescribed, or makes willfully or otherwise an incorrect, false or fraudulent return, upon written notice and demand, the Operator must file a return or a corrected return within ten (10) days of receipt of written notice and must at the same time pay any tax due together with any administrative and staff expenses incurred by the City in the processing and collection of the late payment. If a person fails to file a return or corrected return, the City may make a return or corrected return for the person based upon the knowledge and information and assess a tax on the basis thereof, which tax (less any payments theretofore made on account of the tax for the taxable period covered by the return) must be paid due together with any administrative and staff expenses incurred by the City within ten (10) days of the receipt of written notice and demand for payment. The amounts due shall become a lien on the property of the Operator from where the lodging event(s) took place Any return or assessment made by the City is prima facie correct and valid, and the burden of proving to the contrary rests with any person in any action or proceeding in respect thereto. Subd. 2. Upon a showing of good cause, the City may grant an Operator one thirty (30) Clay extension of time within which to file a return and make payment of taxes as required by this Ordinance, provided that interests during the period of extension must be added to the taxes due at the rate of eight (8) percent per annum. 1411.040 PENALTIES. Subd. 1. If any tax imposed by this Ordinance is not paid within the time required for payment, or an extension, there shall be added a penalty equal to ten (10) percent of the _3_ Page 38 of 116 amount remaining unpaid plus administrative and City staff time in pursuing and obtaining the collection of the tax. Subd. 2. If any person willfully fails to file any return or make any payment required by this Ordinance, or willfully files a false or fraudulent return or willfully attempts in any manner to evade or defeat the tax or payment thereof, there shall also be imposed a penalty an amount equal to fifty (50) percent of any tax (less any amounts paid on the basis of the false or fraudulent return due together with any administrative and staff expenses incurred by the City) found due for the period to which the return related. The penalty imposed by this section shall be collected as part of the tax and are in addition to any other penalties provided by this Ordinance. All such amounts shall be liens against the property of the operator and may be collected by the city in the manner prescribed by Minnesota Statute 514.67. Subd. 3. All payments received will be credited first to penalties, next to interest and then to the tax due. Subd. 4. The amount of tax not timely paid, together with any penalty provided by this Section, will bear interest at the rate of eight (8) percent per annum from the time the tax should have been paid until payment is made. Any interest and penalty will be added to the tax. Subd. 5. In the event that any tax remains unpaid for 30 days after it is due, in addition to the right to institute legal action to collect the amounts due, the City may certify the tax, together with any penalty, interest and costs, to the County Auditor for collection with the real estate taxes. -4- Page 39 of 116 1411.060 EXAMINATION OF BUSINESS RECORDS. Persons acting on behalf of the City and authorized in writing by the City may periodically examine the books, papers and records of any Operator in order to verify the accuracy of any return made or, if no return was made, to ascertain the tax as provided in this Ordinance. Every such Operator shall give to the City the means, facilities and opportunity for examinations and investigations as are hereby authorized. 1411.070 DISPOSITION OF PROCEEDS. 95% of the proceeds must be used to fund a local convention and tourist bureau for the purpose of marketing and promoting the City as a convention and tourist center and for that purpose, the City is authorized to enter into an agreement with the Greater Stillwater Area Convention and Visitor's Bureau. 1411.080 VIOLATIONS. Any person who willfully fails to make a return by this Ordinance or who fails to pay the tax after written demand for payment, or who fails to remit the taxes collected or any penalty or interest imposed by this Ordinance after written demand for payment, or who refuses to permit the City's authorized agents to examine the books, records and papers under their control, or who willfully makes any incomplete, false or fraudulent return is guilty of a misdemeanor. 1411..090 APPEAL. Subd. 1. Any Operator aggrieved by any notice, order or determination made by the City under this Ordinance, except for the criminal penalties, must file a petition for review of such notice, order or determination with the City. The petition shall contain the name of petitioner, petitioner's address and the location of the lodging subject to the notice, order or determination. The appeal will be first heard by the City Administrator. Review of the decision of the City Administrator may be requested of the City Council by the aggrieved party filing a written notice -5- Page 40 of 116 of review with the City Clerk within ten (10) days after the Administrator's determination is made to the appellant. SECTION TWO: EFFECTIVE DATE. This ordinance will be in full force and effect from and after its date of publication and will establish the tax set forth in this ordinance upon gross lodging; receipts generated beginning on January I st, 2008 and thereafter and, unless renewed by action of the City Council, until December 31 st, 2010, when the tax will sunset by operation of law. Adopted by the City Council of the City of Oak Park Heights this __ day December 2007. ATTEST: Eric Johnson, City Administrator _g_ CITY OF GAIL PARD HEIGHTS David Beaudet, Its Mayor Page 41 of 116 This Page Is Left Intentionally Blank. Page 42 of 116 Oak Park Heights Request fog• Council Action Meeting Date December 11 2007 Time Required, l min. Agenda Item Title: Receive Donation Agenda Placement New Business Originating Department/Requestor Police Dept. Chief Lindy Swanson Requester's Signature Action Requested Authorize Donation Acceptance by Resoluti Background/Justification (Please indicate if any previous action has been taken or if other public bodies have advised): Once again, Mr. & Mrs. Glenn Crain have forwarded a donation in the amount of $200.00 to the Oak Park Heights Police Dept. The Crains mentioned that they "wouldn't mind" that the money be used to purchase a couple of children's bicycles to be added to die National Night Out/Party In The Park gathering in 2008, Page 43 of 116 This Page Is Left Intentionally I3lank. Page 44 of 116 Sr, Oak Park Heights Request for Council Action Meeting Date December 11`x', 2007 Time Required: 10 Minutes Agenda Item Title: WCL ASSOCIATES INC., PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT AND GENERAL; CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT; SUBDIVISION; SITE PLAN AND DESIGN REVIEW AND REZONING OF THE SUBJECT PROPERTY FROM O OPEN SPACE DISTRICT TO B-2 GENERAL BUSINESS DISTRICT TO CONSTRI JCT A RETAIL DEVELOPMENT INCLUDING BEST BUY Agenda Placement Originating Requester's Signature Action Requested Background/Justification bodies have advised): Eric Johnson. Citv Admini indicate if any previous action has been taken or if other public Please see enclosed from Scott Richards, City Planner 1. Planners report - dated Oct 26", 2007 (attachments may be found in the Nov — Planning Commission Packet) 2. Request from Applicant (WCL) for Additional Fagade Lighting Design I Final Planning Commission Resolution — unsigned 4. Proposed City Council Resolution Page 45 of 116 NORTHWEST ASSOCIATED CONSULTANTS, INC. 4.soo Olson Mernor'iai Highway, Sr.rlte 202, GOlden Valley, MN 55422 Telephone: '763.2.31.2555 Facsimile: 763,231.2561 t5lt�nnersfi<n�aci�lannir�c�.carm PLANNING REPORT TO: Eric Johnson FROM: Scott Richards DATE: October 26, 2007 RE: Oak Park Heights — Brackey Retail Development 1 Best Buy Planned Unit Development, 60th Street North and Krueger Lane FILE NO: 798.02 — 07.09 BACKGROUND WCL Associates, Inc., representing Robert Brackey, has made application for a planned unit development, concept and general; conditional use permit; subdivision; site plan and design review; and rezoning of the subject property from O, Open Space District to B-2, General Business District. The subject site, located at the corner of 60th Street North and Krueger Lane, is 14.83 acres. The development consists of a 30,250 square foot Best Buy store that would be considered for concept and general plan approvals as part of the planned unit development. The second phase of the development is a 20,500 square foot building and adjacent parking areas that would only be considered for concept approval at this time. The development can be completely accessed from 60th Street North and Krueger Lane. No new streets are to be constructed. Cross access with the Menards parking lot is also proposed. The subject site is currently zoned O, Open Space. A rezoning to B-2, General Business District has been applied for and the request is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan Land Use Map designation for the property. Attached for reference: Exhibit 1: Existing Conditions (Sheet 2) Exhibit 2: Preliminary flat (Sheet 3) Exhibit 3: Final Plat — Brackey Fourth Addition Exhibit 4: Civil Site Plan (Sheet 4) Exhibit. 5: Grading, Drainage and Erosion Control Plan (Sheet 5) Exhibit 6: Sanitary Sewer and Water Main Construction (Sheet 6) Exhibit 7: Storm Sewer Construction (Sheet 7) Page 46 of 116 Exhibit 8: Landscape Plan (Sheet 9) Exhibit 9: Plan Notes (Sheet CS -2) Exhibit 10: Architectural Site Plan (Sheet AS -1.0) Exhibit 11: Traffic Movements Plan (Sheet AS -1.0) Exhibit 12: PUD Phasing Plan (Sheet AS -1.1) Exhibit 13: Photometric Plan (Sheet AS -1.2) Exhibit 14: Interior Plan — Best Buy (Sheet A -O) Exhibit 15: Exterior Elevations (Sheet A-6.0) Exhibit 16: Exterior Elevations (Sheet A-6.1) Exhibit 17: Building Cross Sections (Sheets A-8, A-8-1) Exhibit 18: Lighting Specifications Exhibit 19: Colored Building Elevations Exhibit 20: Project Narrative, October 1, 2007 Exhibit 21: Traffic Report Exhibit 22: Report of City Engineer Exhibit 23: Report of City Arborist Adjacent Uses. Uses adjacent to the subject site are listed below: North of Site Present Zoning Present Use: South of Site Present Zoning: Present Use: West of Site Present ,Zoning Present Use: East of Site Present Zoning: Present Use: Stillwater Business Zoning North of Highway 36 6011' Street North and Highway 36 I Stillwater Business B-2, General Business District Menards O, Open Space District Wetland and Undeveloped Area B-2, General Business District Krueger Lane f Kohl's Proposed Project: The proposed development would feature a Best Buy store to be constructed as the first phase of this planned unit development. The 50,750 square foot building would be constructed as two separate, but adjacent buildings. The Best Buy phase would be a 30,250 square foot single tenant space. The second phase would be a 20,500 square foot space that would be constructed as demand for tenant space increases, but according to the developer, not until 2009 or later. Access to the development would be from 60th Street North, Krueger Lane, and through the Menards' parking lot. The driveway from 60" Street will require an access permit to be issued by Mn/DOT. The City will also require pedestrian access into the development from 60th Street and Krueger Lane, which has been shown on the site plan, 161 Page 47 of 116 The parking lot improvements will also be phased with the development. All access points will be established with the first phase, but the building pad and parking for the second phase will remain in grass until development. The planned unit development phasing plan is shown as Exhibit 12 of this report. The Best Buy store would feature retail sales of electronic goods and the services found in similar stores. A car stereo install service is also intended as part of what is offered at this location. The access doors for the stereo install location are found on the north elevation. The Menards' pylon sign currently exists on the property owned by Mr. Brackey. The sign is considered an off-site advertising sign and is prohibited by the Zoning Ordinance. The sign will need to be removed, moved to the Menards property, or provided an actual property connection to the Menards' site. Comprehensive Plan. The proposed Land Use Map of the Comprehensive Plan designates this area for commercial land uses. The B-2 zoning and the proposed multi - tenant retail and commercial service use is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan designation. Zoning. The property to be subdivided as Block 1, tots 1 and 2 of Brackey 4th Addition is proposed to be rezoned from O, Open Space to B-2, General Business District. The applicants have applied for a planned unit development concept and general plan improvements in that it will be a multi -tenant, phased project. The preliminary/final piat indicates that the property will be split into two lots. The planned unit development would address cross access and parking utilization in the development. A conditional use permit is required to allow the car stereo install service. Minor auto repair is a listed conditional use in the B-2 District. Subdivision. A preliminary/final plat was submitted as part of this application, The plat would take Outlot A of Brackey 3d Addition and create Block 1, Lots 1 and 2 of Brackey 4th Addition for the Best Buy/Brackey Development. A separate Outlot A would be created for the remaining developable area of this property. The lot line between Lots 1 and 2 would separate the two phases of the building. Appropriate drainage and utility easements would be provided as part of the plat, subject to review and approval of the City Engineer. The park dedication for this property was already received by the City as part of the previous Brackey Addition. Street Access. Access for the development would be from Krueger Lane, 60th Street North and the Menards' parking lot. Mn1DOT would require an access permit for the 60th Street access. The Krueger Lane access is aligned with the Kohl's development to the east. The developer will have an access easement with Menards for the connection. 'iraffic Analysis. The applicant has provided a traffic study for the development as part of the planned unit development review. The City Engineer will provide a review of the traffic study in a separate report. Page 48 of 116 Tvails/Sidewalks. The site plan indicates trail connections to the existing trail on 60th Street North and through the parking lot to Krueger Lane. A sidewalk exists on the east side of Krueger Lane. The City will need to consider whether to install a crosswalk on Krueger Lane to connect the sidewalks. As part of the Park and Trail System Plan, the Planning Commission and Parks Commission have discussed the need for additional trails in this area. Both the Planning Commission and Parks Commission have agreed that a trail is needed on the north side of 58th Street, from Krueger Lane to the Oak Park Ponds development. Additionally, they agree that a north/south connection is needed west of Menards and extending north on the west side of the existing wetland to 60th Street. As part of the planned unit development and subdivision approvals, installation of that trail would be required now with construction of the Best Buy phase of the development. The Parks Commission should comment on the sidewalk and trail plans both external to and within the proposed development. Setbacks. The B-2 District requires 40 foot front yard setbacks, 10 foot side yard, and 20 foot rear yard setbacks. The building setbacks are met with the proposed buildings of both phases. All other setbacks, including parking setbacks, are met in the plans. Parking. According to Section 401.151 of the Zoning Ordinance, shopping centers shall provide six parking spaces for each 1,000 square feet of gross floor area. The plans indicate a total of 296 parking spaces on site, 172 spaces to be provided for Phase 1 and 109 spaces to be provided in Phase 2. The parking requirements for this development is as follows: Phase 1, Best Buy: 30,250 X .9 = 27,225 _ 166 = 164 parking spaces Phase 2, Commercial Space: 20,500 X .9 = 18,450 � 166 = 111 parkinaspaces 275 parking spaces The plans indicate the following stalls being provided: Phase 1, Best Buy Parking Stalls Provided 182 parking spaces Proof of Parking 5.parkinq space Total Phase 1 172 parking spaces (of which 6 are accessible) Phase 2, Commercial Development Parking Stalls Provided 109 parking spaces (of which 5 are accessible) Total Site Parking 296 parking spaces For Phase 1 of development, there are five parking stalls indicated on the northwest side of the building that will be designated as proof of parking. If the stalls are required in the future, the landscaped area would be removed. The second phase indicates 11 4 Page 49 of 116 stalls along the entrance drive from Krueger Lane, These stalls are not required to meet the City parking standards and should be removed from the plans. All of the parking stalls and drive aisles are designed to comply with Zoning Ordinance standards. The proof of parking would be allowed, but could be ordered by the City if a problem occurs with parking. Loading Areas. The site plan indicates that the loading docks for both buildings are on the west side of both the Phase 1 and 2 building sections. The docks are totally enclosed on three sides by the building and wails. The site plan has also indicated the turning radius and truck movements for the delivery trucks. Within the loading dock area for Best Buy, an enclosure for the trash compactor is indicated on the plans. With this enclosure, the compactor will be completely screened. The applicant shall provide specifics on noise emissions from the compactor for Planning Commission review. Screening. The rear of the Best Buy and other commercial space backs up to a large wetland and developable commercial property to the west. All of the loading dock areas and trash compactor will be screened from the properties directly to the west. The openings to the loading dock areas could be seen from the south and southwest. The landscape plan addresses those issues with plantings and transplanted White Spruce from the site. The Planning Commission should comment on the proposed screening. The building will include heating, air conditioning and mechanical equipment on the roof structure. The applicant shall provide cross section diagrams indicating that the equipment will not be visible from Highway 36 and Krueger Lane. Landscape Plan. A landscape plan has been provided by the applicant. It includes landscaping around the perimeter of the entire site and the internal site of Phase 1. Additional landscaping would be added as part of a Phase 2 approval process. The City Arborist has reviewed the plans and submitted comments in a review as attached. The landscape plan is subject to review and approval of the City Arborist. Grading, Drainage and Utility Plans. Grading, drainage and utility plans have been submitted. The City Engineer has commented on these plans as found in the enclosed attachments. All grading, drainage and utility plaits shall be subject to review and approval of the City Engineer. Trash Enclosure. The trash will be stored internally to the building and handled through the trash compactor area. There will be no exterior storage of materials or dumpsters allowed in the rear of the building. Lighting. The Zoning Ordinance requires lighting levels to be held at one foot candle meter reading as measured from the centerline of a street, or at 0.4 foot candles as measured at a property line of an adjacent property. There are areas adjacent to the Menards property that exceed the allowable photometric allowances. The lighting pian should be adjusted to be compliant. Page 50 of 116 Parking lot lighting throughout the development will be a standard shoe box fixture. All building light fixtures are also designed to be full cut off. All light fixtures will need to comply with the Zoning Ordinance. Building Height, The B-2 District specifies a maximum building height of 35 feet. To the highest point, the parapet of the Best Buy facade is 37 feet, four inches. The ordinance does allow parapet structures to a maximum height of 38 feet. The walls of most of the structure are at approximately 28 feet. The building complies with the Zoning Ordinance. Architectural Appearance/Design Guidelines. The proposed development is subject to the City's Design Guidelines that apply to all new commercial development in the City. The proposed buildings feature a variety of masonry types with both vertical and horizontal to break up the expanse of the facades. The building contains fagade and roof articulation and variation in color and material to create a visual interest. The building colors are primary earth tones. The Best Buy building is approximately 90 percent masonry construction and 10 percent glass. The blue EIFS with the yellow sign area is approximately 20 percent of the Best Buy fagade but less than 5 percent of the building total. The Design Guidelines specify that less than 5 percent of the building total shall be a primary or vivid color. The approvals will be conditioned such that no other primary or vivid colors be used on the Phase 2 development. The Phase 2 development design would be reviewed with the general plan of development for that phase. A building materials sample board will be required for Planning Commission review and City Council approvals. The building will meet the standards of the Design Guidelines but Planning Commission review and City Council approval is required. Signage. The signage requirements for structures in the B-2 District specify a requirement of 100 square feet of signage or 15 percent of the building facade up to 300 square feet. Each of the tenants in the building would be allowed two wall signs with a third at rear entrances for delivery doors. Exceeding the allowable area of signage is done by conditional use permit. Increasing the number of allowable signs is by variance. Three walls signs and one freestanding sign have been prepared for Best Buy. The proposed signs and requirements are as follows: Allowable Proposed Number of Number o _ Sign Area Si ng Area Signs Allowed insPtosed Wall Signs -- —300 sq are feet 590 sere feet _ 3 3 Freestandinq Signs 100 square feet 75 s ware feet 1._._..__.........._. 1 Two Best Buy "ticket" signs proposed, one on the front (east) facade and one on the Highway 36 (north) fagade. The two signs total 492 square feet of sign area. The third sign is an informational sign for the car stereo install area. That sign is 18 square feet. G Page 51 of 116 The freestanding sign is 20 feet in height and includes sign area consisting of 75 square feet to advertise Best Buy and a future tenant. The Best Buy sign is proposed at 44 square feet for the freestanding sign. The total Best Buy signage on site is 585 square feet or 285 square feet over what is allowed. A conditional use permit has been requested to address the additional signage. Allowing the additional sign area will have little visual impact due to the minimal percentage of overall fapade area devoted to signage for this project. In support of the request, the proposed signage will have no negative impact on neighboring uses, traffic, or the provision of public services, The applicant will need to provide information on how the signs will be lit. Logos and text portions of signs are allowed to be lit. The "tag" Best Buy logo would be allowed to be lit. Only the text portion of the car stereo install sign could be lit. Menaird Sign. In May of 1995, the City Council approved a request for a pylon sign for Menards. The City Council approved the sign as follows: "moved to approve a 200 square foot, 30 foot high pylon sign for Menards as a condition of their previously granted conditional use permit, with the further condition that the land the sign was located on be owned by Menards." When constructed in 1995, the sign was placed on an easement area of property owned by Mr. Brackey. It is intended that a flag lot would have been created with a strip of land extending from the Menards property to the location of this sign. This was never completed. The applicant has three options in addressing this sign issue as part of the current development request: 1. Remove the Menards sign. 2. Move the Menards sign to property owned by and physically connected to Menards. 3. Subdivide Brackey 4t" Addition to create a parcel of land that extends to the sign and is legally combined with the primary Menards parcel. Car Display. The site plan indicates a Geek Squad display car that will be featured on the sidewalk of the Best Buy store. The vehicle will be an operable car. The City will limit this display to one car or object at a time as part of the planned unit development approvals. Utility Lines. Chapter 1008 of the City Code requires that utility lines as part of a subdivision of land or land development, be installed and maintained underground. The City has required this provision for other developments such as the CSM/Lowes development. The same utility line crossing in front of CSM/Lowes along 60th Street affects the Brackey/Best Buy project. A condition for utility burial will be placed as part of the planned unit development approvals and included in the development contract. Development Contract. The applicant will be required to enter into a development agreement with the City pending approval of the planned unit development. The Page 52 of 116 agreement shall specify the terms of the private and public improvements that will be done as part of the development process. CONCLUSION I RECOMMENDATIONS The proposed project is consistent with the Comprehensive Pian and will be compatible with the proposed rezoning of the property to B-2, General Business District. Based upon the preceding review, our office recommends approval of the following: Rezoning from O, Open Space to B-2, General Business District (Lots 1 and 2, Block 1, Brackey 4"' Addition) Planned Unit: Development Concept Plan of Development (Phase 1 and 2) Planned Unit Development General Plan of Development (Phase 1, Best Buy) ® Conditional Use Permit — minor auto repair (car stereo installation) and signage allowance ® Preliminaryllwinal Plat Site Plan and Design Guideline Review With the following conditions: 1. The preliminary/final plat is subject to review and approval of the City Engineer and City Attorney. 2. The City Engineer shall comment on the traffic analysis provided by the applicant. The traffic circulation plan accesses and required improvements shall be subject to review and approval of the City Engineer. 3. 601" Street access shall be approved by the Minnesota Department of Transportation. A copy of the approved access permit shall be provided to the City. 4. The Planning Commission and Park Commission should comment on the private and public trail and sidewalk system for the area. The applicant shall provide a trail on the north side of 58th Street, from Krueger Lane to Oak Park Ponds and a north/south connection west of Menards and extending north on the west side of the wetland to 60t" Street. The location and construction of the trail shall be subject to review and approval of the City Engineer. 5. The Planning Commission shall comment on the landscaping and screening from the loading dock areas. 6. There shall be no outdoor storage of trash, recycling, or delivery trucks and containers. 7. The Planning Commission and City Council finds the proposed building layout and setbacks to be adequate and approves the general site plan as proposed. 8 Page 53 of 116 Only Phase 1, the Best Buy store, is approved as a planned unit development general plan. 8, The City Engineer recommendations for roadway, traffic, and access and utility improvements, as outlined in the October 24, 2007 letter, shall be implemented by the applicant. 9. The grading, drainage and erosion control plan are subject to review and approval by the City Engineer and the applicable Watershed District. 10. The submitted utility plan is subject to review and approval by the City Engineer. 11. The landscape plan shall be revised to address the comments of the October 23, 2007 landscape plan review and subject to approval of the City Arborist. 12. The building materials and color samples provided by the applicant are subject to review and approval of the Planning Commission and City Council. 13_ The five proof of parking stalls at the northwest corner of the building shall be constructed by the applicant if required by the City Engineer. 14, The 11 parking stalls on the concept plan for Phase 2 at the access drive to Krueger Lane shall not be permitted and shall be removed from the plan. 15. The applicant shall provide noise specifications for the trash compactor subject to approval of the city. 16. The applicant shall revise the building cross sections to clearly show the screening of the roof mechanical units. The views shall be from Krueger Lane and Highway 36. 17. The front building fagade of the Phase 1 and 2 building shall be limited to a total of five (5) percent vivid or primary colors. 18. The applicant shall select one of the three options for addressing the Menards sign issue: a. Remove the Menards sign. b. Move the Menards sign to property owned by and physically connected to Menards. C. Subdivide Brackey 4t" Addition to create a parcel of land that extends to the sign and is legally combined with the primary Menards parcel. 19. The car display on the Best Buy sidewalk shall be limited to one sign or object at a time. 9 Page 54 of 116 20. The utility lines along 60th Street shall be removed as required by Section 1008 of the City Code and as specified in the development contract. 21. All parking lot lighting shall be full cut off, shoe box style fixtures, with lenses that are fully shielded and that do not exceed 25 feet from around level to the top of the fixture. 22. All building lighting shall be full cut off, shoe box fixtures with lenses that are fully shielded. There shall be no flood lighting of building facades. 23. A revised light plan with photometrics shall be submitted meeting all Zoning Ordinance light intensity requirements subject to review and approval of City staff. 24. All outdoor lighting for parking lots shall be turned off one hour after store closing, except for security lighting. The applicant shall provide a plan, subject to approval of City staff for lighting shut off. 25. All automobile installation activities shall be limited to within the principal structure and the doors to the service bays shall be kept closed except when vehicles are being moved in or out of service areas. 26. All noise created from operations on the site shall be in conformance with Section 401.15.8.11 of the Zoning Ordinance. 27. All signs shall include illumination of only the text and logo portion of the messages. 28. Signage shall be limited to a total of three wall signs and one freestanding sign not to exceed a total of 585 square feet of sign area. 20. A condition of this approval is that the applicant enter into a development agreement, as prepared by the City Attorney and approved by the City Administrator, containing provisions including, but not limited to, the construction and placement of financial security for site improvements, payment of applicable City connection fees, placement of financial security and requirements for extension and/or construction of City roadways, utilities for the site and related water, sanitary sewer and storm sewer improvements. 10 Page 55 of 116 November 20, 2007 1 I1 ! C 1 RE: Best Buy Request for City Council Approval of Fagade Lighting Design Mr. Johnson Best Buy is requesting the City Council to approve a Fagade Lighting design as per attached Fagade Lighting Exhibit. The exhibit depicts the Front (East) and Side (North) facades during night time operations (condition the store will operated by for a third of the year). The upper half of the exhibit depicts the fagade utilizing an up light type fixture design. The lower half depicts the same Fagade without the requested fagade lighting improvements. It should be stated that the City of Oak Park Heights has adequately communicated, through ordinance and published design guides, its desire for both quality development design and avoidance of light pollution. However, the questions, and inherit concerns, Best Buy will voice during the Council hearing is. Do these same documents provide same concern for good fagade illumination design within the commercial districts? Should measure of illumination design consider more than just the measure foot candle at grade? Recent commercial developments have been observed during after dusk operations. The quality of fagade illumination varied. Some, such as Kowalsksi's and Ruby Tuesdays, incorporated fagade lighting into its design successfully. While others, such as Lowe's, appeared devoid of fagade illumination design, affecting negatively the development. Good fagade illumination attempts to soften and transition between the glare and contrast created by storefront glazing, under canopy fighting and internally illuminated signs. Without softening or transitioning, under illuminated fagades with high contrast (light and dark) may appear less inviting or safe by the public. We believe this proposal provides good fagade illumination design. We hope the council will take into considerations the forementioned concerns during the review of this request. Sincerely Yours, Chad Berreau, Assoc AIA (Title) WCL Associates, Inc. 4031 5trem CC: stela 200st St.4wrs Nrk, Air ,*W49 55416 7..952..541-9069 T_952..541-9554 SYWvl.v/da.00111 Page I0iI'-_a. ;... .. :-cma v:cc�we: �v[ae.,.1s c""' l:::rlx.a,ntu;c L* -e Page 56 of 116 Q "Z low ou� `m1.1 I C - rd Oil"I'm 25H -If T 1-, 74 arv Page 58 of 116 m CL Y 5= AJAr 'l r 3, •,' g u OI i� U m 4r �7.V QS vo O U > U) 113 �f Fro'C 9 o ry .NO b �r Ci 00073 bfi :. OO N �� , ��. ; - ' '� � • Uv q to 0.o Qcr •'� ro�� � <i� �., ' , .tea . f�� � ' .. c�;� �t u. . r w ■ �:' w m c� E y a i� . . c. E MU �f N c Ur 4r U Uy � of .c 4i Z� 0 ai c -0.0 n any�? �,� ���N.c.ro o N py � Ox .OT. 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Page 60 of 116 Page 61 of 116 LO c I—Q LO 7:0:0 CN N W" 777� co:w M.N 0):knco 0 lu .0 CJ LC) M �ZO: Zc C- 6, iO i) rO IJ -I u Lu i 7 UO Ti 0 0, CO V) 65 (1): �O-zj�:4) zo �l izo Al v ico - 1— c4j 'PD "N 10 41 1 i CO ca On i`) 0) co H 0 ....... ............ C) O 0 IQ 'V U cq m '2 m i co N N C9 " ; ! 0 96 CO x 'i i. LO N I V W N Cl) G) — i Z LO cliC) m '0 Lo i CL E E -T -1 DI, �05 43) q) " 0 --D'- �Ot 15 , c-lt C) Ol 0 . . . (3 -0 41 .YT r, (0 o � - u E -S? E 'z� . 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ASSOCIATES INC-, REPRESENTING ROBERT RRACKEY, FOR A PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT, CONCEPT AND GENERAL; CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT; SUBDIVISION; SITE PLAN AND DESIGN REVIEW; AND REZONING OF THE SUBJECT PROPERTY FROM O, OPEN SPACE DISTRICT TO B-2, GENERAL BUSINESS DISTRICT TO CONSTRUCT A RETAIL DEVELOPMENT INCLUDING BEST BUY SHOULD BE APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS WHEREAS, the City of Oak Park Heights has received a request froze. WCL .associates Inc., representing Robert Brackey, for a planned unit development, concept and general; conditional use permit; subdivision; site plan and design review; and rezoning of the subject property from 0, Open Space District to B-2, General Business District to construct a retail development including Best Buy; and after having conducted a public hearing relative thereto, the Planning Commission of Oak Park Heights makes the following findings of fact: The weal property affected by said application is legally described as follows, to wit: SEE A"l TAC 1-IMI:?N'I' A and 2. The applicant has submitted an application and supporting documentation to the Community Development Department consisting of the following items: SEE ATTACI-IMEN`l' B and 3. The property is designated as commercial in the Land Use flan of the Comprehensive Pian; and d. The property is to be zoned B-2, General Business District in which retail development is a permitted use; 5. A planned unit development is required to allow for the development staging and cross access for driveways and parking; and Page 68 of 116 6. A conditional use permit is required to allow the car stereo install service as part of the Best Buy store; 7. City staff prepared a planning report dated October 26, 2007 reviewing the request for the amended conditional use permit; and 8. City staff recommends in the October 26, 2007 planning report that the request be approved with conditions; and 9. The Planning Commission held a public hearing at their November 8, 2007 meeting, took comments from the applicants and public, closed the public hearing, and made the following recommendation: NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE PLANNING COMMISSION FOR THE CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS THAT THE PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDS THE FOLLOWING. A. The application submitted by WCI, Associates Inc., representing Robert Brackey, for a planned unit development, concept and general; conditional use permit; subdivision; site plan and design review; and rezoning of the subject property from 0, Open Space District to B-2, General Business District to construct a retail development including Rest Buy and affecting the real property as follows: SITE ATTACHMENT A Be and the same as hereby recommended to the City Council of the City of Oak Park Heights for approval of the following: * Rezoning from 0, Open Space to B-2, General Business District (Lots 1 and 2, Block 1, Brackey 4"' Addition) o Planned Unit Development Concept Plan of Development (Phase 1 and 2) m Planned Unit Development General Pian of Development (Phase 1, Rest Buy) ® Conditional Use Permit — minor auto repair (car stereo installation) and signage allowance ® Preliminary/Final Plat Site flan and Design Guideline Review And recommended the following conditions: I . The preliminary/final plat is sukiect to review and approval of the City Engineer and City Attorney. 2. The City Engineer shall comment on the traffic analysis provided by the applicant. The traffic circulation plan accesses and required improvements shall be subject to review and approval of the City Engineer. 3. 60`f' Street access shall be approved by the Minnesota Department of Transportation. A copy of the approved access permit shall be provided to the City. 2 Page 69 of 116 4. The Park Commission should comment on the private and public trail and sidewalk system for the area. The Planning Commission recommends that the applicant provide and pay for installation of a north/south connection trail west of Menards and extending north of 58`x' Street on the west side of the wetland to 60°i Street. The location and construction of the trail shall be subject to review and approval of the City Engineer. 5. The Planning Commission is favorable to the proposed landscaping and screening fronn the loading dock areas. 6. There shall be no outdoor storage of trash, recycling, or delivery trucks and containers. 7. The Planning Commission finds the, proposed building layout and setbacks to be adequate and approves the general site plan as proposed. Only Phase 1, the Hest Buy store, is approved as a planned unit development general plan. S. The City Engineer recommendations for roadway, tragic, and access and utility improvements, as outlined in the November 6, 2007 letter, shall be implemented by the applicant. 9. The grading, drainage and erosion control plan are subject to review and approval by the City Engineer and the applicable Watershed District. 10. The submitted utility plan is subject to review and approval by the City Engineer. 11. 'rhe landscape plan shall be revised to address the comments of the October 23, 2007 landscape plan review and subject to approval of the City arborist. 12. `fhe building materials and color samples provided by the applicant are favorable to the Planning Commission. 13. The five proof of parking stalls at the northwest corner of the building shall be constructed by the applicant if required by the City Engineer. 14. 'The l l parking stalls on the concept plan for Phase 2 at the access drive to Krueger Lane shall not be permitted and shall be removed from the plan. "fhe drive, aisle to the north adjacent to the Krueger l.,ane entrance shall not be allowed. 15. The applicant shall provide noise specifications for the trash compactor subject to approval of the city. 16. The applicant shall revise the building cross sections to clearly show the screening of the roof mechanical units. The views shall be from Krueger i,ane and Highway 36. 17. 'The front building fagade of the Phase 1 and 2 building shall be limited to a total of five (5) percent vivid or primary colors. 18. The applicant shall select one of the three options for addressing the Menards sign issue; Page 70 of 116 a. Remove the Menards sign. b. Move the Menards sign to property owned by and physically connected to Menards. C. Subdivide Brackey O' Addition to create a parcel of land that extends to the sign and is legally combined with the primary Menards parcel. 19. The car display on the Best Buy sidewalk shall be limited to one vehicle or object at a time. 20. The Planning, Commission recommends that the building elevations shall be revised oil the south and west elevations such that the red brick color be extended into the vertical columns. The elevation plans shall be revised and subject to City Council approval. 21. The utility lines along 60u, Street shall be removed as required by Section 1008 of the City Codi or as specified in the development contract. 22. All parking lot lighting shall be full out off, shoe box style fixtures, with lenses that are fully shielded and that do not exceed 25 feet from ground level to the top of the fixture. 23. All building lighting; shall be full cut off, shoe box fixtures with lenses that are fully shielded. There shall be no flood lighting of building; facades. 24. A revised light plan with photometrics shall be submitted meeting; all toning Ordinance light. intensity requirements subject to review and approval of City staff. 25. All outdoor lighting for parking, lots shall be turned off one hour after store closing, except for security lighting. The applicant shall provide a plan, subject to approval of City staff for lighting; shut off. 26. All automobile installation activities shall be limited to within the principal structure and the doors to the service bays shall be kept closed except when vehicles are being moved in or out: of service areas. 27. All noise created from operations on the site shall be in conformance with Section 401.15.13. I I of the Coning Ordinance. 28. All signs shall include illumination of only the text and logo portion of the messages. 29. Signage shall be limited to a total of three wall signs and one freestanding sign not to exceed a total of 585 square feet of sign area. 30. A condition of this approval is that the applicant enter into a development agreement, as prepared by the City Attorney and approved by the City Administrator, containing provisions including, but not limited to, the construction and placement of financial security for site improvements, payment of applicable City connection fees, placement of financial security and requirements for extension and/or construction of City roadways, utilities for the site and related water, sanitary sewer and stoma sewer improvements. 4 Page 71 of 116 Reeominciiftcl by the I'lam)hig Commission oaf'the City ol'Oak ]lark Heights this 8th clay of Novembea• 2007. Warren Wasescha, Vice Clair AT EI,ST: Eric A. Johnson, City Administrator Page 72 of 116 Attachment A Washington County GEO Code: 05.29.20.22.0015 Legal description: Outlot A, subject to easements, Brackey 3rd Addition Address: Physical Address Not Yet Assigned Location: SE Corner of 60t" St. N. & Krueger Ln. N. Page 73 of 116 ATTACHMENT B Zoning District Amendment, Conditional Use Permit, Site Plan/Design Guidelines Review, Preliminary & Final Plat Approvals, and Planned Unit Development: Concept & General Plans Bob Brackey & Best Buy Multi -Tenant Retail Commercial Development Application Materials • Application Form • Fees • Plan Sets (3 Large Scale Sets/20 11X17 Sets) • Written Narrative and Graphic Materials Explaining Proposal • Mailing List from Washington County (500' from subject property) • Proof of Ownership or Authorization to Proceed • Property Tax Statements)/Legal Description(s) Conference With City Staff Upon Application Submittal: October 17, 2007 Planning Commission Public Hearing & Recommendation: November 8, 2007 Conditional Use Permit - Lapse of Approval: Unless the City Council specifically approves a different time when action is officially taken on the request, the conditional use permit shall become null and void twelve (12) months after the date of approval, unless the property owner or applicant has substantially started the construction of any building, structure, addition or alteration, or use requested as part of the conditional use. An application to extend the approval of a conditional use permit shall be submitted to the Zoning Administrator not less than thirty (30) days before the expiration of said approval. (401.03,C.4.a and b) PUD: Concept/General — Limitation on General Concept Plan Approval: Unless a General Plan of Development covering the area designated as in the General Concept Plan as the first stage of the PUD has been filed within twelve (12) months from the date Council grants General Concept Plan approval, or in any case where the applicant fails to file General Plan of Development Stage and Final Plans and to proceed with development in accordance with the provisions of this Ordinance and of an approved General Concept Plan, the approval may be revoked by Council action. (401.06.C.2.e) Page 74 of 116 RESOLUTION NO. CI'T'Y COUNCIL CITY OF OAK. PARK HEIGHTS WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING FINDINGS OF TACT AND RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL THAT THE REQUEST BY WCL ASSOCIATES INC, REPRESENTING ROBERT BR.ACKEY, FOR A PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT, CONCEPT AND GENERAL; CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT; SUBDIVISION; SITE PLAN AND DESIGN REVIEW; AND REZONING OF THE SUBJECT PROPERTY FROM O, OPEN SPACE DISTRICT TO BW2, GENERAL BUSINESS DISTRICT TO CONSTRUCT A RETAIL DEVELOPMENT INCLUDING BEST BUV BE APPROVED WITH CONDITIONS WHEREAS, the City of Oak Park. Heights has received a request from WCL Associates Inc., representing Robert Brackey, for a planned unit development, concept and general; conditional use permit; subdivision; site plan and design review; and rezoning of the subgect property from 0, Open Space District to B-2, General Business District to construct a retail development including; Best Buy; and after having conducted a public hearing relative thereto, the Planning Commission of Oak Park Heights recommended that the application be approved with conditions. Tile City Council of Oak Park Heights makes the following findings of fact and resolution: The real property affected by said application is legally described as follows, to wit: SEE ATTACHMENT A and 2. The applicant has submitted an application and supporting documentation to the Community Development Department consisting; of the following items: SEE'ATTACHMENT N`l' B and 3. The property is designated as commercial in the Land Use Plan of the Comprehensive Plan; and 4. The property is to be zoned 13-2, General Business District in which retail development is a permitted use; 5. A planned unit development is required to allow for the development staging and cross access for driveways and parking; and Page 75 of 116 6. A conditional use permit is required to allow the car stereo install service as part of the Best Buy store; 7. City staff prepared a planning report dated October 26, 2007 reviewing the request for the amended conditional use permit; and 8. City staff recommends in the October 26, 2007 planning report that the request be approved with conditions; and 9. The Planning COmnliSsion held a public hearing at their November 8, 2007 meeting, took comments from the applicants and public, closed the public hearing, and recommended that the application be approved with conditions. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL ICOR THE CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVESTHE FOLLOWING: A. The application submitted by WCL Associates Inc., representing Robert Brackey, for a planned unit development, concept and general; conditional use permit; subdivision; site plan and design review; and rezoning of the subject property from O, Open Space District to B-2, General Business District to construct a retail development including Hest Buy and affecting the real property as follows: SEL A`aACHMENT A Be and the same is hereby conditionally approved by the City Council of the City of Oak Park Heights of the following: Rezoning from O, Open Space to B-2, General Business District (Lots l and 2, Block 1, Brackey 4"' Addition) ® Planned Unit Development Concept Plan of Development {Phase 1 and 2) ® Planned Unit Development General flan of Development (Phase 1, Best Buy) Conditional Use Permit — minor auto repair (car stereo installation) and signage allowance * Preliminary/Final Plat e Site Plan and Design Guideline Review Subject to the fbllowing conditions: I . The preliminary/final plat is subject to review and approval of the City Engineer and City Attorney. 2. The City Engineer shall comment on the traffic analysis provided by the applicant. The traffic circulation plan accesses and required improvements shall be subject to review and approval of the City Engineer, Page 76 of 116 3 60`' ,Street access shall be approved by the Minnesota Department of Transportation. A copy of the approved access permit shall be provided to the City. 4. The Parr Commission should comment on the private and public trail and sidewalk system for the area. The applicant shall provide and pay for installation of a north/south connection trail west of Menards and extending north of 59x' Street on the west side of the wetland to 60`1' Street. The location and construction of the trail shall be subject to review and approval of the City Engineer, The Planning Commission and City Council are favorable to the proposed landscaping; and screening; from the loading; dock areas. There shall be no outdoor storage of trash, recycling, or delivery trucks and containers. The Planning Commission and City Council find the proposed building layout and setbacks to be adequate and approves the general site plan as proposed. Only Phase 1, the Best Buy store, is approved as a planned unit development general plan. 8. The City Engineer recommendations for roadway, traffic, and access and utility improvements, as outlined in the November 6, 2007 letter, shall be implemented by the applicant. 9. The grading, drainage and erosion control plan are subject to review and approval by the City Engineer and the applicable Watershed District. 10. The submitted utility plan is subject to review and approval by the City Engineer. 11. The landscape plan shall be revised to address the comments of the October 23, 2007 landscape plan review and subject to approval of the City Arborist, 12. The building materials and color samples provided by the applicant are favorable to the Planning Commission and City Council. 13. The rive proof of parking stalls at the northwest corner of the building shall be constructed by the applicant if required by the City Engineer. 14, The I I parking stalls on the concept plan for phase 2 at the access drive to Krueger );ane shall not be permitted and shall be removed from the plan. The drive aisle to the north adjacent to the Krueger lane entrance shall not be allowed. 15. The applicant shall provide noise specifications for the trash compactor subject to approval of the city. 16. The applicant shall revise the building; cross sections to clearly show the screening of the roof mechanical units. The views shall be from Krueger Lane and Highway 36. IT The front building; fagade of the Phase 1 and 2 building; shall be limited to a total of five (5) percent vivid or primary colors. Page 77 of 116 18. The applicant shall select and implement one of Clio three options for addressing the Menards sign issue: a, Remove the Menards sign. b. Move the Menards sign to property owned by and physically connected to Menards. C. Subdivide Brackey 0' Addition to create a parcel of land that extends to the sign and is legally combined with the primary Menards parcel. The option selected will be specified within the development agreement and. implemented concurrent with its execution. 19. The vehicle for the "Creek Squad" may be permitted on the Best Buy sidewalk but shall be limited to one vehicle at a time. No other displays are permitted unless first approved by the City Planner. 20. The Planning Commission recommends that the building elevations shall be revised on the south and west elevations such that the red brick color be extended into the vertical columns. The elevation plans shall be revised and subject to City Council approval. 21. The utility lines along 60"' Street shall be removed as required by ,Section 1008 of the City Code and/or as specified in the development contract. 22. All parking lot lighting shall be full out off, shoe box style fixtures, with lenses that are fully shielded and that do not exceed 25 feet from ground level to the top of the fixture. 23. All building lighting shall be full cut off, shoe box fixtures with lenses that are fully shielded. There shall be no flood lighting of building facades. 24. A revised light plan with photometrics shall be submitted meeting; all 'Zoning Ordinance light intensity requirements subject to review and approval of City staff. 25. All outdoor lighting for parking lots shall be turned off one hour after store closing, except for security lighting. The applicant shall provide a plan, subject to approval of City staff for lighting shut off. 26. All automobile installation activities shall be limited to within the principal structure and the doors to the service bays shall be kept closed except when vehicles are being moved in or out of service areas. 27. All noise created from operations on the site shall be in conformance with Section 401.15.13.11 of the Zoning Ordinance. 28. All signs shall include illumination of only the text and logo portion of the messages. 29. Signage shall be limited to a total of three wall signs and one freestanding sign not to exceed a total of 585 square feet of sign area. 4 Page 78 of 116 30. A condition of this approval is that the applicant enter into a development agreement, as prepared by the City Attorney and approved by the City Administrator, containing provisions including, but not limited to, the construction and placement of financial security for site improvements, payment of applicable City connection fees, placement of financial security and requirements for extension and/or construction of City roadways, utilities for the site and related water, sanitary sewer and stoma sewer improvements. Approved by the City Council of the City of Calc Park Heights this 27th day of November 2007. David 13eaudet, Mayor ATTEST: Eric A. Johnson, City Administrator Page 79 of 116 Attachment A Washington County GEO Code; 05.29.20.22.0015 Legal Description: Outlot A, subject to easements, Brackey 3`d Addition Address: Physical Address Not Yet Assigned Location: SE Corner of 60«' St. N. & Krueger Ln, N. Page 80 of 116 ATTACHMENT B Zoning District Amendment, Conditional Use Permit, Site Plan/Design Guidelines Review, Preliminary & Final Plat Approval:$, and Planned Unit Development: Concept & General Plans Bob Brackey & Best Buy Multi -Tenant Retail Commercial Development Application Materials Application Form • Fees • Plan Sets (3 Large Scale Sets/20 11X17 Sets) • Written Narrative and Graphic Materials Explaining Proposal • Mailing List from Washington County (500' from subject property) Proof of Ownership or Authorization to Proceed « Property Tax Statements)/Legal Description(s) Conference With City Staff Upon Application Submittal: October 17, 2007 Planning Commission Public gearing & Recommendation: November 8, 2007 Conditional Use Permit - Lapse of Approval: Unless the City Council specifically approves a different time when action is officially taken on the request, the conditional use permit shall become null and void twelve (12) months after the date of approval, unless the property owner or applicant has substantially started the construction of any building, structure, addition or alteration, or use requested as part of the conditional use. An application to extend the approval of a conditional use permit shall be submitted to the Zoning Administrator not less than thirty (30) days before the expiration of said approval. (401.03.C.4.a and b) PUD: Concent/General Limitation on General Concept Plan Approval; Unless a General Plan of Development covering the area designated as in the General Concept Plan as the first stage of the PUD has been filed within twelve (12) months from the date Council grants General Concept Plan approval, or in any case where the applicant fails to file General Plan of Development Stage and Final Plans and to proceed with development in accordance with the provisions of this Ordinance and of an approved General Concept Plan, the approval may be revoked by Council action. (401,03.C.2.e) Page 73 of 84 Page 81 of 116 This Page Is Left Intentionally Blank. Page 82 of 116 Oak Park Heights Request for Council Action Meeting Date December 111h 2007 Time Required.: 5 Minutes Agenda Item Title: Additional Ca ital Projects for 2008 Agenda Placement New Business Originating Department/Requestor Ma or Beaudet Requester's Signature Action Requested Discussion Possible Action Background/Justification (Please indicate if any previous action has been taken or if other public bodies have advised): Discuss possible projects for 2008, (tennis courts and trails) (these will be discussed in the 2008 Budget worksession) Page 83 of 116 This Page Is Left Intentionally Blank. Page 84 of 116 �F ®alp Park. Heights �ry����,� Request for Council Action Meeting Date December 1 lig', 2007 Time Required: 5 Minutes Agenda Item Title: Consider Documents for the St. Croix Transit Feasibility Stud Agenda Placement New Business Originating Department/Requestor Councilmernber McComber Requester's Signature Action Requested Review Documents — Possible Action Background/Justification (Please indicate if any previous action has been taken or if other public bodies have advised): Please review the enclosed documents that outline various options for transit and alternative transportation models for our area and related river- crossings at STH 36 and 1-94, including possible funding scenarios. Comments on these documents must be submitted to MNDOT not later than 12/21/07 and will be considered as part of the 'Transit Feasibility Study Action Plano (Please note that Items 4, 6 and 7 are not yet complete) Page 85 of 116 The pieces of the draft that are complete are attached for your review, as is our original scope. For clarity, the items addressed are included at the tops of the beginning page. However, in the final report, these .italic item descriptions will be deleted. Note: Items 1&2 are combined :Items 4&7 are combined and include item 6 the remainder of the items are listed separately. Unfortunately the market analysis part of the study (items 4, 6, 7) is not yet complete. This is the heart of the study and has been time-consuming to complete. A draft should be available for our meeting Friday. A very preliminary version of 'Item 4 only has been included just for. reference. ------------------ Jennifer Conover. Team Transit, Mn/CBOT Metro District Ph: 651-234-"7711 1 Page 86 of 116 l 1 Jennifer Thoen From: Jennifer Conover [Jennifer.Conover@dot. state. mn.us] Sent: Tuesday, December 04, 2007 6:44 PM To: marymccomber@aol.com; ddarnold@ci.hudson.wi.us; larry.jepsen@co.polk.wi.us; cmalick@co.saint-croix.wi.us; davidf@co.saint-croix.wi.us; tracyd@co.saint-croix.wi.us; michael.rogers@co.washington.mn.us; Robert Vockrodt; Todd Clarkowski; Jennifer Conover; Gerald Weiss; Adam Josephson; Nick Thompson; Thomas Gottfried; jeffry.abboud@dot.state.wi.us; john.alley@dot.state.wi.us; Susan Moe; Tim Mitchell; william.wheeler@fta.dot.gov; hines_ranch@hotmail.com; rep.julie.bunn@house.mn; charles.carlson@metc.state, mn.us; con nie. kozlak@metc.state. mn.us-, craig.lamothe@metc.state. mn.us; bbarsnessl@msn.com; wberndt@sbcglobal.net; richl@scchwy.org; tram berg@scchwy.org; sen. kathy.saltzman@senate.mn; bbartz@srfconsulting.com; jehrlich@srfconsulting.com; pamelad@vil.somerset.wi.us; mspooz@webtv.net Subject: Last Mtg for St. Croix Transit Feasibility Study & DRAFTReport Attachments: scope summary; Item 8_Transit Funding.doc; Item 3—Goals of transit.doc; Item 4 _MarketAreaAnalysis.doc; Item 5 TransitAttractiveness.doc; Item 2 _COMBINED Answers, Transit Funding MCollaborativeStructure&impediments&Soiutions.doc; atrix.xls scope summary item 8_Transit Item 3 -Goals of Item Item item COMBINED Funding.doc (42... transit.doc (3.,. arketAreaAnalysis.diransitAttractivenessallaborative5tructuraswers, Transit Fund f-3 i everyone. Our last meeting is this Friday, at 9:00 am at the Washington County Government Center. 1t should not take the full 3 hours. Hope to see you there. A summary of the draft report will be presented and T will. take any early comments you may have. The pieces of the draft that are complete are attached for your review, as is our original scope. For clarity, the items addressed are included at the tops of the beginning page. However, in the final report, these .italic item descriptions will be deleted. Note: Items 1&2 are combined :Items 4&7 are combined and include item 6 the remainder of the items are listed separately. Unfortunately the market analysis part of the study (items 4, 6, 7) is not yet complete. This is the heart of the study and has been time-consuming to complete. A draft should be available for our meeting Friday. A very preliminary version of 'Item 4 only has been included just for. reference. ------------------ Jennifer Conover. Team Transit, Mn/CBOT Metro District Ph: 651-234-"7711 1 Page 86 of 116 Jennifer Thoen From: Jennifer Conover [Jen nifer.Conover@dot. state. rnn.us] Sent: Tuesday, November 20, 2007 2:00 PM To: Jennifer Conover Subject: scope summary Proposed Transit feasibility Study Action Plan 'fhe primary focus of the study should be directed at the transit needs of the river crossings (TH 36, 1-94). The following issues should be considered in the development of a scope for further study: 1. Evaluate potential institutional impediments for operation transit services across independent autonomous jurisdictions. Describe models of border. states .in the US where these impediments have been overcome. Describe what institutional arrangements were put in place. Identify potential. options for establishing an authority for transit service in western Wisconsin. Discuss the administrative, legal, financial and political benefits and drawbacks of each option.. What might be the role of a public-private transit coalition? 2.. Identify a structure for collaborative discussions on transit management, involving the appropriate agencies in Wisconsin and Minnesota, based on an examination of best practices. Identify .institutional impediments to effective and comprehensive joint planning and potential. strategies to overcome these impediments. 3. :In consultation with a study oversight team, identify possible goals and objectives for transit: service in western Wisconsin including basic mobility needs, work-related trips within western Wisconsin, work-related trips to the Twin Cities metropolitan area, and non -work trips. 4. Examine the short-, medium and long --term feasibility for transit in the St. Croix Valley given current and future growth expectations. Verify or revise previous projections of 7,800 riders per day as identified in the St. Croix River Crossing scoping process. 5. Describe proven steps that can be taken to improve the attractiveness and demand for transit. For example: § park and ride availability § bicycle and walk access and facilities § promotional free rides, passes and redeemable coupons § attractive transit stations § incorporation of ancillary transit -friendly uses, such as daycare services, dry cleaning and grocery stores 6. Evaluate the .implementation of non-traditional transit services that are more aligned with current low-density development pattern and diverse origin -destination travel. desires. The analysis should include a variety of flexible transit/pa.ratransit services, such as: § Shared -ride taxi § Car -sharing § Demand -responsive § Route deviation § Fixed route with route deviation Other. 7. Analyze level. of transit service in peak and off-peak periods; geographic coverage, estimated demand, estimated capital and operation costs, estimated fares and subsidies. 8. Clearly identify, in each state, how transit .is funded for site-specific services at the local, state, and federal levels. ------------------ Jennifer Conover Team Transit, Mn/DOT Metro District Ph: 651--234--7711 Page 87 of 116 DRAFT 1214107 Items 2 &1 Item #2: Identify a structure for collaborative discussions on transit management, involving the appropriate regencies in Wisconsin and Minnesota, based on an examination of best practices. Identify institutional impediments to effective and comprehensive joint planning and potential strategies to overcome those impediments. Item #1 Evaluate potential institutional impediments for operation transit services across independent autonomous jurisdictions. Describe models of border states in the US where these impediments have been overcome. Describe what institutional arrangements were put in place. Identify potential options for establishing an authority for transit service in western Wisconsin. Discuss the administrative, legal, financial and political benefits and drawbacks of each option. What might be the role of a public private transit coalition? L Structure far collaborative discussions on transit management Management of interstate commuting and transit between multiple jurisdictions is a complex enterprise. While many regions in the United States have overcome obstacles to provide transit service across county lines and between states, a number of impediments exist that inhibit transit service from western Wisconsin to the Twin Cities region. Some impediments could or should be overcome, while others warrant careful investigation to their causes, drawbacks, and benefits. IL What are the appropriate agencies in. Wisconsin and Minnesota? Key stakeholders for a collaborative discussion on transit management include Wisconsin and Minnesota cities and counties, Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT), the West Central Wisconsin Regional Planning; Commission (WCWRP), and the Metropolitan Council. a. Wisconsin and Minnesota counties Washington County is the easternmost Minnesota County in the 7 -county region. Washington County contracts with Human Services, Inc. to provide dial -a -ride service to residents with limited mobility. A few cities provide transit in Minnesota, though this is limited to small programs, primarily dial -a -ride service. St. Croix County has the largest population of the three Wisconsin counties (Pierce, Polk, St. Croix) considered to be "collar counties" of the Twin Cities Metropolitan area. St. Croix County has some transit programs for the elderly and disabled (with limited access to the public based on space availability). All programs are dial -a -ride type service. 'l'he three counties include many cities and towns. The largest local governments include the cities of River falls, Hudson, and New Richmond. Recent surveys of license plates in park-and-ride lots indicate residents in these communities use transit service from Cottage Grove, Maplewood, Woodbury and Stillwater, Minnesota. Many Wisconsin residents work in the 'Twin Cities area, dispersed through the region, with worker concentrations in high employment areas east of Saint Paul. b. Metropolitan Council and MetroTransit Page 88 of 1116 DRAFT 1214107 Items 2 &1 The Metropolitan Council is the regional planning agency for the Twin Cities Metropolitan area. The Council serves many roles related to transportation. The Metropolitan Council is responsible for regional transportation planning including aviation, highway, and transit systems as well as transit operations. The Council is the designated Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) for the Twin Cities metropolitan area. MetroTransit, the region's largest transit provider, is all operating division of the Metropolitan Council. The Metropolitan Council also contracts with private bus companies to provide transit service in portions of the region. c. Regional Rail Authorities In 1987 the Minnesota Legislature authorized Minnesota counties to establish Regional Railroad Authorities to conduct rail transit planning. These authorities have specific powers established by state law, including the ability to levy taxes (though a maximum levy is established by law). Rail authorities are separate legal entities from counties, but often are governed by county commissioners and share staff with the county. Rail authorities are involved in corridor preservation, transit planning, and other activities related to rail transit. Some rail authorities have participated in busway transit planning to improve mobility along corridors and build transit ridership towards eventual rail service, if warranted. The Washington County Regional Rail Authority participates in corridors such as the Rush Line and Red Rock Corridors, and has requested funding to study transit improvements along the 1-94 corridor. d. WCWRP The West Central Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission conducts economic development and transportation planning for seven counties in west central Wisconsin, including Polk and St. Croix Counties. The commission provides administrative and planning staff for MPO functions of the Lau Claire Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). e. WisDOT and MnDOT The Wisconsin Department of 'Transportation and Minnesota Department of 'Transportation are state agencies responsible for planning, building and maintaining state and interstate highway systems. They are also responsible for other transportation modes including public transit, bike/ped networks, and freight systems. Finally, the departments assist in connecting county and local transportation systems, including multi -modal transportation. 111 Models ql Boarder States in the US, Best Practices Each case of border cities was briefly analyzed and summarized for the study oversight group at the second meeting. First, local examples of Fargo/Moorhead, Duluth/Superior, and La Crosse/La Crescent were examined. Additionally, Kansas City, MO and Kansas City, KN; Portland and Vancouver, Detroit/Windsor, Boston -to -Baltimore, and others were investigated. "There were several examples of states providing funding to border states for inclusion in their transit plans and operations. Especially common is the more "rural -oriented" state contributing funding to the more urban region, paying for buses to come to their municipalities for transit commuters. These funds typically come from City budgets or from Federal sources, such as 5311 funds. See the funding section of the report for more details about transit funding available in MN & WI. The study oversight group directed a more detailed examination of one city/state border region that appeared to be the most similar to the St. Croix Valley region of MN/WI. The most similar area was chosen as Saint Louis, MO, and East Saint Louis, IL. Page 89 of 116 DRAFT 1214107 Items 2 &1 a. Minnesota and Surrounding States In fiargo ND/Moorheyd MN, the transit agency receives funds from Mn/DOT for planning purposes, but not for operations. Again in Grand Forks NDIEast Grand Forks MN, Minnesota contributes funding for planning, but not for operations. In La Crosse WYLa Crescent MN transit is funded first by WI and federal funds to La Crosse Transit. 'T'ransit routes that run in La Crescent and between the cities are paid for by MN to the City of La Crescent to La Crosse Transit. This arrangement enables crossing the Mississippi River and facilitates transit between the two cities. In Duluth MN/Superior WI, there is a similar arrangement to above, but the roles are reversed. Wisconsin pays for transit service that runs in Superior and across the river. The Duluth/Superior organizational structure for planning is the Metropolitan Interstate Council (MIC). MIC is housed with the Arrowhead Regional Development Agency (ARRC), but is autonomous. MIC's organization includes a member of ARDC, Northwest Development Corporation (WI), FHWA, the Cities of Duluth and Superior, and a representative from Saint Louis and Douglas counties. Their planning functions include, but are not limited to—harbor activities, roadways, bridges, transit, possible tollways, HOV, bikeways, and sewer extensions—coordinated with the WLSSD (Western Lake Superior Sanitary District). b. Nationwide In Portland OR/Vancouver, WA, the Oregon legislature has dedicated $4 million to the Portland MPO for special needs (for the biennium). There are additional legislative funds appropriated for transit, e.g. the Cigarette Tax and the Special Transportation Bund, both adding $20 million for transit (for the biennium). Currently, the State of Washington in Olympia, sends dollars to Vancouver Transit for purchase of transit "facilitation" in Portland. Tri -Met, the transit authority, is governed by a board of directors from Portland proper, and the neighboring counties of Clackamas, Multinomah, and Washington, but not the State of Washington. In Kon.scrs City, KN/Kansas City, , the State of Missouri has created a Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA). According to the legislation Kansas City, KN, sends transit monies to Kansas City, MO, for transit routes bound for Missouri and vice versa. &iini Lrrui,s MO and Lust Saini Louis IL was chosen as the area most similar to the St. Croix Valley region of MN/WI. The 2003 Census estimates the population of the Saint Louis SMSA as being 2.4 million. Approximately 100,000 of these residents live bast Saint Louis, Illinois. In contrast, our Twin Cities SMSA is recorded as 2.8 million residents, with 165,000 residents living in Saint Croix, Pierce, and Polk Counties. Iii -State is the Transit Authority for greater Saint Louis. It is governed by a commissioner chosen by the governor for each of Saint Louis' boroughs. East Saint Louis has two commissioners on this board. Totaling 24 members, this Authority analyzes current trends in transit, directs all planning activities, routes, seeks funding at the legislature, and overall, directs the governance of the region's transit activities. The Illinois Legislature sends transit dollars to Bi -State for operations and planning activities in Illinois. As stated earlier, in this case the smaller entity sends monies to the larger for transit facilitation in its respective municipality. Furthermore, it was noted that bast Saint Page 90 of 116 DRAFT 1.214/07 Items 2 &1 Louis is connected by roadways, an LRT line, several park-and-ride lots, and numerous bridges across the Mississippi River. Saint Louis is transit conscious, however, Kansas City appears much less so. In Saint Louis, residents, especially office workers and students, are far more transit dependent than in Kansas City. Both are of similar populations, but Kansas City is auto dependent and largely auto -oriented in its planning efforts. IV. Impediments to Transit Service Regular route transit service is not currently available between Wisconsin and Minnesota, for many different reasons. Some of the reasons include political and institutional impediments, but others relate to practicalities of transit and sound planning policy. The impediments to transit service between Wisconsin and Minnesota include the following. Low Population/Population Density in Western Wisconsin Western Wisconsin is a developing area, but remains primarily rural in character. The population density and overall population is quite low, and will remain low into the future. Population density in Wisconsin cities was below 5 persons per acre in 2000, and is not expected to increase significantly by 2025, while rural areas of the counties will continue to have extremely low population densities. The three -county area has a much lower population than Washington County, Minnesota. The ten most populous cities of western Wisconsin have fewer people than one Washington County city. 'rnh1P'VV C'ninngn.,zon of Populations. Western Wisconsin and Minnesota a. Wisconsin Dept of Administration, 2030 coram), pro jecitons b. Wisconsin Dept ol'Administration, 2025 municipal projections c. Metropolitan Council 2030 pro.*1kins As Wisconsin areas develop further, increasing numbers of Wisconsin residents will commute to central business districts and transit corridors. As this occurs, congestion may increase and direct transit service may become more feasible from Wisconsin. This topic is explored in detail in the market analysis section of the study. Minnesota State Regulations Transit in the Twin Cities region began as a private, franchised enterprise, which gradually transitioned to a publicly provided service over the 20"' century. To subsidize transit, Minnesota established a property tax assessed to a specific geographic area, which corresponded largely to the urbanized portion of the 7 -county metro area in 1970. In 2001, this property tax was replaced with alternate funding streams for operating funds, including vehicle taxes and state general Page 91 of 1 �6 Population Population Growth Location (2000) (2030) Polk, Pierce, St. Croix Co 141,278 204,133` 62,855 44% Washington County, MN 201,130 365,570 166,440 83% 10 most populous cities and 47,747 80,084' ' 32,337 67% towns combined, Western WI Woodbury, MN L4-0,6-43 84,000 37,357 80% a. Wisconsin Dept of Administration, 2030 coram), pro jecitons b. Wisconsin Dept ol'Administration, 2025 municipal projections c. Metropolitan Council 2030 pro.*1kins As Wisconsin areas develop further, increasing numbers of Wisconsin residents will commute to central business districts and transit corridors. As this occurs, congestion may increase and direct transit service may become more feasible from Wisconsin. This topic is explored in detail in the market analysis section of the study. Minnesota State Regulations Transit in the Twin Cities region began as a private, franchised enterprise, which gradually transitioned to a publicly provided service over the 20"' century. To subsidize transit, Minnesota established a property tax assessed to a specific geographic area, which corresponded largely to the urbanized portion of the 7 -county metro area in 1970. In 2001, this property tax was replaced with alternate funding streams for operating funds, including vehicle taxes and state general Page 91 of 1 �6 DRAFT 12/4/07 Items 2 &1 funding. This district is legislatively defined, and continues to provide the basis for a transit capital tax levy. In the east metro, urbanized cities like Stillwater, Oak Park Heights, and Bayport are within the taxing district, yet Hastings is not. Furthermore, Lake Elmo is within the district but is primarily rural in character. Historically, transit served these areas. A streetcar route connected St. Paul to Stillwater, built in 1890-1899 and refurbished in 1932. This service continued as bus service to the present, as the area is served by MetroTransit route 294. Due to this history of transit in the corridor, when the taxing district was formed it included these areas, and did not include urbanized areas without transit such as Hastings or Hudson, WI. "Transit Taxing District: With very few exceptions, transit operations are restricted to areas inside the transit taxing district. The taxing district is a significant impediment to extension of transit services, and its boundaries must be changed if Twin Cities transit service is to be offered or operated by a regional agency. The transit taxing district does not prevent buses or trains from entering the metropolitan area from outside. Possible Solution: While coordination would be necessary, a Wisconsin transit service could be permitted to use transit advantages such as authorized bus -only shoulders and downtown bus lanes in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Out -of -area transit providers generally must operate closed -door service from origin to destination, but with proper interagency agreements Wisconsin transit providers could stop at MetroTransit park-and-ride facilities along the corridor. At present, this solution is the most practical means to implement transit service from western Wisconsin. Figure X X. Transit Taxing District Map. Page 92 of 116 DRAFT 1214107 Items 2 &.1 1 Source: Metropolitan Council Transportation Policy Plan Federal Regulations If a transit system operates across state lines, federal regulations apply to the transit operation. Specifically, transit service must be provided in accordance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations of the U.S. Department of 'Fran sportation. Ensuring compliance with these regulations could complicate regular route transit provision between states. The carriers must also obtain US DOT identification numbers. The paperwork for obtaining US DOT numbers can be time consuming. There is no fee from the government for the numbers, as they are for public transit systems. However, it would be required that the bus system insure to Minnesota standards (which is higher in MN than in WI). Special training, medical clearances, equipment specifications and other factors would be applicable to any interstate bus or rail service. MetroTransit bus operators and most private providers in the region comply with strict safety regulations, though they do not necessarily meet the specific requirements of federal interstate transit regulation. Revising protocols to address this need could be an impediment to the provision of transit across state lines. Existing Metro Area Transit MetroTransit operates several express bus routes in the east metro area outside the 4941694 ring. These routes serve park-and-ride lots in Stillwater, Woodbury, Cottage Grove, and Oakdale. Page 93 of 1 �6 DRAFT 1214107 Items 2 & 1 I_,icense plate surveys indicate Wisconsin residents use park-and-ride facilities to access transit services destined for Minneapolis, Saint Paul, and other regional transit destinations. Park-and-ride users with Wisconsin -registered vehicles primarily use five facilities in the `twin Cities metro area. According to the Regional Park -and -Ride Plan, approximately 1,200 more spaces are proposed to meet growing demand between now and 2030. In total, vehicles with Wisconsin license plates accounted for 230 park-and-ride users in a 2006 license plate survey of all facilities. Wisconsin -based use of park -and -pool facilities (without transit service) is strong as well, particularly in the east metro area and in Wisconsin. Table X X. Wisconsin Residents at Metro -area Park -and -Ride Facilities* September 2006. Facility Wisconsin Users Total Users Woodbury Theater 60 545 Guardian Angels Church, Oakdale 37 109 Cottage Grove Park -and -Ride 15 224 95" Ave NE & 1-35W (Blaine) 10 872 Rosedale Transit Center 10 541 Ma lewood Mall Transit Center 7 254 Woodbury Lutheran Church 7 86 Stillwater- St. Croix Rec 7 50 County Rd C & I-lighway 61 3 227 Totals 156 2908 Other" Facilities with Wisconsin -registered vehicles: LRT Park-and-Rides22 Other Metro Park -and -Rides _ 30 17 facilities with 2 or less Wl plates 22 Total 74 *Additional park -and wool facilities exist in Wisconsin and Minnesota. * * Most of these "other "facilities erre in the north, ivest or south metro area. These users erre not likely originating in Wisconsin on a regular basis, and a majority have moved to Minnesota but do not have uj,3dated license plates. Increased Operating Costs The transit system must also balance the cost of bus travel between traveling to long-distance commuters and encouraging commuters to travel to park-and-ride facilities. Buses serving park- and-ride facilities near downtown areas can provide multiple peak period trips per bus, allowing efficient use of the transit system. Facilities located further from central cities require longer travel times. Additional travel creates low per -passenger operating efficiency and increases costs. While long-distance transit can offer significant reductions in vehicle miles traveled, it must be balanced with commuter willingness to travel to the service. In the Twin Cities area, the maximum travel distance for transit service is generally restricted to the distance that allows a bus to make more than one trip per peals period. The regional "rule of thumb" is a maximum, one-way transit travel time of 45 minutes to allow the vehicle serving the Page 94 of 1716 DRAFT 12/4/07 Items 2 &I first peak period trip to be used for another trip late in the peak period. A transit travel time of 30 minutes is the current norm. Distance will differ by corridor due to congestion levels and availability of transit advantages, but currently the most distant facilities are located 30 or fewer miles from their primary destination. These larger distances are made possible by continuous transit advantages, comparatively low congestion, and direct service to downtowns. Competing Priorities for Transit Operations Investment Public agencies in Minnesota and Wisconsin have limited resources for transit and highway improvements. The limited funds for expansion of highways and transit service are allocated according to system plans for each state and region. Transit plans within the Twin Cities area plan increased service on local and express bus routes, new bus routes and new park-and-ride facilities, and transitway projects on dedicated rights-of-way. Planned transit expansion in Minnesota's eastern suburbs will benefit Wisconsin residents commuting to the Twin Cities area. Expanded park-and-ride facilities in the east rnetro area will continue to benefit Wisconsin residents using the transit system, and will remove vehicles from congested roads in the east metro area. Added bus trips and new bus service will also provide new options to commuters. These options include a new Forest Lake park-and-ride with future transit service, new and expanded facilities and transit service in Woodbury and Cottage Grove, and potential extension of service from Stillwater to downtown Minneapolis. Direct provision of service into Wisconsin is not included in current MetroTransit expansion plans. Regional Transit Demand Although metro -area transit use by Wisconsin residents is growing, transit demand is also strong and increasing in collar counties within Minnesota. In comparison to the 230 Wisconsin users in the 2006 park-and-ride survey, almost 900 vehicles at park -and -rides were registered to Minnesota residents in collar counties outside the 7 -county metro area. In total, over 15,000 passengers use regional park-and-ride facilities daily. Table X X. Park -and -Ride Usage, Home Ori Tins, September 2006 7 -County Metro Minnesota "Collar Counties" Wisconsin* Other" Total*** 13,097 898 230 963 15,188 "I11cludes N/isconsin-registered vehicles system -wide. ** Includes vehicles registered in other states, greater Winnesofa, and unknown origins. *** Due to soave recon,?tGag for,flr1crl report, published usage in report is 15,253 Source: 2006 Park- an&Ride Survey Responsible use of Minnesota funding requires balancing east metro transit service with other service priorities in Minnesota. If Minnesota -funded transit service were extended into Wisconsin, it could shift transit service away from growing Minnesota communities a similar distance from destinations such as downtown Minneapolis. This would not be an impediment for Wisconsin -funded transit service to Minnesota, but could be a major political obstacle if Minnesota regional transit funding was used to provide this service. Coordination & Communication One of the more institutional impediments to transit is coordination and communication between the multitude of agencies with different jurisdictions and authority. The MN/WI St. Croix Page 95 of 1 q6 DRAFT 1.214107 Items 2 &1 boarder area has several Cities and townships, four Counties and two States. `ro overcome this impediment, many other states with interstate transit service recommended keep a transit organization small, but representative of both states. Cities' representatives repeatedly made statements like, "the smaller the governing body, the better." The more entities of government involved in coordinating transit, the harder it is to gain consensus and to move forward in a focused direction. Part of this impediment is the perception that other agencies are either only concerned with their own areas (vs. the region), or are overly concerned about the region with a desire to control local entities. This fear of the unknown and lack of understanding is best overcome through staff contact between agencies. Ways to achieve this contact include studies, like this one, which involve investigation, and some planning, or meetings that involve representatives from agencies on both sides of the river. Encouragement to meet and communicate on a staff level builds rapport and trust. V. Potential strategies to overcome transit planning impediments. "There are not significant barriers to joint planning of transit across state lines. Congestion management is a major priority for both Wisconsin and Minnesota, and transit is commonly identified as a means to congestion relief in corridors serving dense employment centers. Planning for transit operations can be freely conducted, compared with the rigid structure and multiple impediments to operating a transit service across state lines. Investigating the feasibility and preliminary planning for a future transit service from western Wisconsin to Minnesota could be arranged using a steering committee. Steering committees provide a flexible forum for interagency transit planning in the preliminary stages of a new corridor or service. Steering committees typically serve advisory functions that have no formal powers or funding structure. While this may not directly advance a transportation project, it provides planning opportunities for political, agency, and non-governmental interests. Steering committees do have drawbacks; key stakeholders are not bound to the committee and could lose interest. Limited authority could inhibit the progress of the coalition, and informally structured, advisory -only decision making could result in compromised action or recommendations. However, for interstate transit service between Minnesota and Wisconsin, a steering committee may offer the correct level of formality for preliminary discussions and conceptual planning or analysis of alternative approaches. 'The steering committee, working with an operating agreement by an authorized transit provider, could provide ongoing policy and planning support to an interstate transit service. Ideal Structure 'rhe ideal transit planning organizational structure for the St. Croix region would likely be similar to Duluth/Superior or Saint Louis. Representatives could potentially include the following; one representative from each listed entity. Each city over 5,000 population o Stillwater o Hudson a Lake Elmo o River Falls o Woodbury o New Richmond • Each County Page 96 of 1 Y6 DRAFT 12/4/07 Items 2 &1 o Washington o Polk o St. Croix o fierce • Federal, State, MPO level o FI1WA o Wis/DOT o PTA o Mn/DOT o Metropolitan Council • Others 0 Private Community, such as those involved in the Oversight Group for this study o One small town or township to represent small communities In total this represents 17 members for the transit steering committee. VL Potential strategies to overcome transit operating impediments. While planning for transit across state lines is relatively straightforward, operating transit from Wisconsin to Minnesota requires several legal agreements and compliance with many laws and regulations. Strong partnerships are needed between political leaders, government agencies, and transit providers in both states to ensure that impediments are overcome. Many different partnership structures are possible, varying in formality and specific powers. Potential structures of a partnership or committee could include: a. Joint Powers Board A Joint Powers Board (JPB) is a formal organization between "like agencies" with defined roles and funding. The Board would have a strong decision making authority and structure. I Iowever, this structure may be too rigid for the multiple scales of agencies with interests in the corridor. Such an arrangement would not accommodate the preliminary phases of planning interstate transit for the region. Stakeholders in a joint powers agreement must be similar in structure. The formation of a Joint Powers Board is specifically granted by state legislation; applying the agreement across two states may require legislative changes. Examples of other regional transit corridors with this organizational structure include Red Rock, Rush Line, and Northstar Corridors. These boards are entities where individual Regional Rail Authorities share their powers to facilitate corridor planning. b. Interagency Agreements Interagency agreements can take any number of forms, and may be a solution that allows transit service to overcome institutional impediments to cross state lines. Agencies participate in many agreements with other agencies, across jurisdictional boundaries and under many circumstances. This approach may be well suited to operating transit service to Minnesota from western Wisconsin. The agreement could provide authorization to use facilities such as bus shoulders, some park-and-ride facilities, and other service agreements. The types of interagency agreements vary significantly, but all are legal recordings of agreements between agencies. Insert exaz�rple oI? serviczig fare bogies. VIL Next Steps - I--94 Corridor Study Page 97 of iq6 DRAFT 1214/07 Items 2 &1 The 2030 Transit Master Plan Incl de, ... apll about tl e 2030 Fk' it Master Plan. Wisconsin Highway 1-94 Corridor Study The `Interstate 94 Corridor Analysis, Saint Croix River to WIS 65' study, completed in February of 2003, presented initial microsimulation analysis for the existing corridor and for planned expansion. The traffic volumes analyzed ranged from year 2000 to levels anticipated around 2025. The locations and tinting of the capacity issues where outlined chronologically. The results showed that capacity limitations will be a major factor for travelers by 2012. Based upon present geometry, the chief bottleneck is MN 'I,I-1 95. Within ten years, peak period travelers across the St. Croix River on 1-94 will be seeking other routes, other modes or other times to travel. Potential Minnesota Highway/Transit 1-94 Corridor Study In early 2007, the Minnesota Legislature paid increased attention to the Interstate 94 corridor east of Saint Paul, MN. Isocal legislators pursued funding for corridor studies for both highway and transit improvements in the corridor. The proposed studies would focus on transportation needs, issues, and scoping of potential improvements to the highway and transit east of Saint Paul on I-94. In particular, fixed guideway transit service could be evaluated in detail on the corridor. This Haight include bus rapid transit, light rail, or commuter rail. The study did not receive funding in 2007, but the corridor may warrant further analysis. The study would look exclusively at 1-94 and adjacent rail lines, rather than the fill] St. Croix valley. While this will limit the geographic scope of the analysis, it will strengthen the detailed analysis of the primary roadway for transit and automobile traffic from Wisconsin. For this reason, a specific study of the 1-94 corridor east of St. Paul may be a logical next step towards transit planning for the St. Croix Valley. Further transit study of the 1-94 corridor may be warranted. Of major metro area river crossings from Wisconsin to Minnesota, The 1-94 corridor appears to be a superior transit candidate due to larger population and forecast population growth, direct service to transit destinations, and superior operating characteristics. The density and population of the I-94 corridor is much higher than the WI 64-MN36 corridor and is projected to remain Hauch more populous, creating higher potential for transit demand. Page 98 of i � 6 DRAFT 11/27/07 Iter 3 Item #3: In consultation with a study oversight team, identify possible goals and objectives for transit service in western Wisconsin including basic mobility needs, work-related trips within western Wisconsin, work-related trips to the Twin Cities metropolitan area, and non -work trips. L Goals of transit service Project Goals In August, 2006, the study oversight team discussed goals for the project. Transportation goals included: 1. Mobility for transit dependent populations, including the elderly and persons with disabilities. 2. Work-related transit service to: a. Downtown St Paul & Minneapolis. b. Within western Wisconsin. c. 'ro Twin Cities suburbs, and other locations. 3. Non work-related trips for education, shopping, medical trips, casinos, and other recreation. 4. Preservation of roadway capacity. 'These goals represent specific transportation objectives, with 41 and #2a appearing as the most feasible options. These specific items are particular markets transit could potentially serve (goals #1-#3), and an overriding directive of the study (#4). Other goals might include provision of social services, environmental protection, growth management, but these were not specifically identified by the group. Page 99 of 116 DRAFT 1213107 Itesn 4 I. Regional Transit Standards- Market areas Several factors influence the feasibility of transit services. The primary predictors of efficient transit productivity are the density of an area and the number of common origins and destinations. A critical mass of common origins and destinations allows for transit to cost- effectively and time -competitively serve transportation needs. The Metropolitan Council defines four broad categories of transit markets in the Twin Cities metropolitan area. In 1995, the Metropolitan Council completed Transil Redesign, a study to determine new directions for transit to boost ridership and better serve transit markets, as well as a reorientation of the agency from a product -oriented agency (bus service) to a customer -oriented agency. The study defined market areas based on population and employment density. Tile analysis found there are four general types of transit market in the region. Over the twelve years since the study, transit service has been reconfigured across the majority of the region to better serve these market types. As a result, the agency's ridership has grown, cost effectiveness has increased, and customers are better served. Market Areas are identified using four primary criteria: 1) Population density. 2) Employment concentration and job density. 3) Trip volumes and patterns. 4) 'Transit dependent segments of the population. Different types and levels of transit services should be used for each transit market area. Transit Market Area I has the highest density of population and employment, and is able to support frequent regular route transit service. Other areas can support decreased levels of transit service, ranging from express service to community circulators to dial -a -ride programs of many types. Transit -dependent populations are also considered in formulating market areas, with low-income, minority, and no -vehicle households creating higher transit demand and need. Table X `I' ansrt Market'Area'Defrnitirons ............. Transit Market Examples Area Characteristics Area Type Area I- Central Central City areas of Population Density = 15 or more persons/acre (or) Minneapolis and Job Density = 50 or more jobs/acre and 10,000 or Saint Paul, U of M more contiguous jobs Area I1- Developed Outer areas of central Populatiosa Desasity = 9 to 14.9 persons/acre cities and first ring augmented by contiguous Higli Transit Depetadetacy suburbs Area III- Developing; Second Ring Population Density = 5 to 8.9 persons/acre (excluding Suburbs- Woodbury, isolated pockets) augmented by: Plymouth, Roseville, (a) Contiguous areas with Job Density = 10 to 49 some urbanized parts jobs/acre and 3,000 or more cosatiguous jobs Or of Washington (b) Contiguous areas with Major'Fravel destinatiosas: Coutaty 50 or more noir-homebound trips/acre Area IV- Rural Tbsrd Ring Suburbs- Population Detlslty less than 5 persons/acre Lake Elnao, Aftosa, Most of Waslaingtosa County Page 100 of 116 DRAFT 1213/0' Item 4 [locket Areas Stillwater, Hastings Areas ineeting at least one of the following: 1. Population Deiisity = more than 5 persons/acre 2. Job De[lslty = 10 to 49 fobs/acre and 3,000 or 171ore contiguous jobs (isolated pockets only) 3. Major Travel destinations: 50 or more non -home bound trips/acre (isolated pockets only) 4. 1-ligh Transit Dependency areas (isolated pockets) II. Transit Service by Market Area Each market area within the region can support various transit service options. Low population and employment densities in 'Transit Market IV and Pocket areas increase the complexity and challenge of matching transit service to transit needs and demand. Due to low concentrations of common origins and destinations in Areas 111, IV, and Pocket Areas it becomes difficult to provide transit service between these areas at a reasonable cost. Transit services in low-density areas must be tailored to specific community needs of local transit -dependent populations. Regular route commuter service may be supported in low-density areas if demand is aggregated to park -and -rides serving high-density employment areas. The transit service levels described above are guidelines, not minimum or maximum standards for each Market Area. °rat,ta X :MQtrnr,nl,tan.Onnnei Aiinde ines'fclr..I ransit S.eivxCe.by Market Ares Market Area Suggested Service Type Suggested Service Characteristics Area 1 & 11 Big bus/regular route service Or*ritatiorl -- central cities, Inner -ring conlpleinemed by paratransit service. suburhan coriiMU17ities Circulators possible between major trip Route spocing (25 --- 1 inilea) with 6-10 generators bus stops per virile Frequency — Generally 5 __ 15 minutes in Area 1, 15-30 minutes in Area H Area I[1 A inix of big and small blas/regular route Orientation --- Link to C13D'Slsuburban and con1111unity circulator service transit stations and centers conlplenlented by paratransit service. Availability — Up to 18 hours/day and Up C0111111LIlllty circtilators ShOUld tie into to % days1week regular route regional service at a transfer Access --- Route .spacing (0.5 — 1.5 miles) point, with 6-10 stops per rule Frequency — 30 --- 60 niinwes Area IV Primary emphasis on: Orientation—.Suhurb to suhurh and 1) small bLis/dial-a-ride service providing suburb to central city service comity or rural circitlatioll, and Availability -- Peak -period express and some midday circulators; Weekday only 2) Conlnluter bus service tied to major Access -- Express routes tied to ingjor park-and-ride facilities to create travel park-ciiid-i"ideSlclrcul(itoi-.S link to transit volumes, stations and center Frequency -- Advance registration for dial -a -ride services Page 101 of 146 DRAFT 1213107 Item 4 Pockets Primary emphasis on: Orientation ..--Weekday .service 2025 Pop Density' 1) small bus service providing commrmity access - Express routes primarily tied to 4.80 local or dial -a -ride ciE•culation, and park-and-ride facilities 15,642 5.98 Frequency -- Up 10 2 hours for circulator 8,775 2) Commuter bus service may have services. Advance registration for dial -a - 3.85 localized service in addition to linking ride New Richmond with major park-and-ride facilities to 2.93 7,720 create travel volumes. 9,231 Source: Appendix M, Transportation Policy Plan 2030, Metropolitan Council III. Western Wisconsin Market Area Analysis The Metropolitan Council's transit market area characteristics were used to find existing, near- term, and long-term transit market areas for the area. The transit market areas in Western Wisconsin consist primarily of Market Area 4 for 2000, 2010, and 2025, due to low population densities in Wisconsin communities. Many areas have extremely low population densities, with 20 or more acres per person in many areas beyond 2025. In the attached maps, the current (2006) community boundaries are used in each time period with the 2000, 2010, or 2025 population to calculate density. Thus, all future growth is within the existing city borders. This is a somewhat unrealistic assumption, since smaller towns usually grow in geographic size as they grow in population by annexing adjacent viral areas when they develop. While some intensification is probable in these communities, the vast majority of growth is expected to occur through annexation of adjacent rural areas as they develop. Even though the cities will grow, density may not increase. Table X: Ponirlat on aid Po�ulatiori Dedszhes Vestey Wisco11S11" ties and Villages City or Village 2000 Pop Density' 2010 Pop Density' 2025 Pop Density' River Falls2 12,560 4.80 13,877 5.30 15,642 5.98 Hudson 8,775 2.80 12,097 3.85 16,060 5.12 New Richmond 6,310 2.93 7,720 3.58 9,231 4.28 Prescott 3,764 2.48 4,088 2.70 4,575 3.02 North Hudson 3,463 2.56 4,161 3.08 4,892 3.62 Ellsworth 2,909 1.27 3,241 1.42 3,735 1.64 Amery 2,845 1.26 2,906 1.28 2,928 1.29 Baldwin 2,667 2.47 3,737 3.46 5,024 4.65 Osceola 2,421 1.24 2,754 1.41 3,149 1.62 St. Croix Falls 2,033 1.06 2,209 1.15 2,398 1.25 Page 102 of 116 DRAFT 1213107 Item 4 Somerset 1,556 1.45 2,231 2.08 3,052 2.84 Hammond 1,153 1.48 1,725 2.22 2,432 3.13 1. Density measured in persons per acre. 2006 geography used. 2010 & 2025 forecast densities likely lower as result of annexation. 2. River Falls numbers combine Pierce aiad St. Croix County portions of the municipality. Sources: Wisconsin Dept. ofAdministration, US Census {inures X t1 ou h X show existing and forecast population densities, used to determine transit market areas in western Wisconsin. The area is expected to continue to develop at relatively low densities between now and 2025. MAPS GO HERE Page 103 of 1 f6 DRAFT 1213107 Item 4 IV. Analysis of Western Wisconsin Potential "Pocket" Areas A number of developed areas of Wisconsin may support additional transit service as "pocket" areas defined by regional transit market area standards. However, these pockets are located at a much greater distance from the core Twin Cities than most of the "pocket" markets within the 7 - county area. The developed areas of western Wisconsin have local characteristics that influence the type of transit most appropriate for the areas. This section analyzes the market area characteristics of the largest cities in St. Croix, Pierce, and Polk Counties. a. WI -641 Stillwater Bridge Corridor New Richmond New Richmond, Wisconsin is located in St. Croix County, and is the largest city along Wisconsin highway 64 in the study area. The city has relatively low population density, in the near-term and long-term population density is not expected to rise above five persons per acre. The city is growing rapidly, and is expected to have over 9,000 residents by 2025. Still, the area does not meet the regional transit standards for a "pocket" area and further analysis may show a limited number of commuters destined for high-density areas in the Twin Cities. Somerset Somerset, Wisconsin is a small city in St. Croix County, the westernmost city along the corridor. The city had a population of 1,556 in the 2000 census, and is projected to grow to approximately 3,000 persons by 2025. The surrounding townships will experience similar growth, adding 6,515 in population to Richmond, Star Prairie, St. Joseph, and Somerset Township. The total population of the corridor from the Wisconsin border at Stillwater to New Richmond will be close to 30,000, based on estimates from the Wisconsin Department of Administration. Vicinity of New Richmond bast and north of New Richmond, few areas are expected to experience significant growth by 2025. Small towns and villages are dispersed through the County, and low density land uses are expected to continue. For commuters from New Richmond and Somerset to downtown Minneapolis or Saint Paul, transit demand may continue to best filled by existing; express service from Maplewood Mall, Stillwater, or I-94 park -and -rides. This corridor does not appear to have sufficient population to support a substantial park-and-ride facility. Frequent service at Minnesota facilities will continue to draw commuters from the corridor. The Metropolitan Council's Transportation Policy Plan includes new express bus service from Stillwater to downtown Minneapolis by 2030. Intra -Wisconsin transit travel needs will continue to be fulfilled by local programs tailored to each community's needs, funded by federal, state, and local sources. b. Northern River Crossings, Hwy 243 & US 8, Polk County A number of communities are located in the northern half of Polk County, including St. Croix Falls, Amery, Osceola, and others. Residents of these areas bound for the Twin Cities are likely to use river crossings in Osceola and St. Croix falls, connecting to I-35 in Forest Lake, MN. Substantial transit investment is planned for Forest Lake, with extension of the region's express bus commuter network and the Rush Line transitway project serving the city. 'Fhese transit Page 104 of 116 DRAFT 1.213107 Item 4 improvements will serve commuters to downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul from the northern St. Croix Valley. e. Interstate 94 Corridor River Falls With the highest population, second-highest forecast population, and highest population density in the three -county area, River Falls stands out as a potential "pocket" for transit service in Western Wisconsin. River Falls is the only community that also operates a municipal transit system- the River Falls Shared Ride Taxi. This service provides anyone a direct ride within the city and five miles around it for a low fare. The University of Wisconsin- River Falls campus brings over 5,200 full -tune equivalent students to River Falls. The city's residential population includes over 3,000 of these students, with large concentrations in dormitory housing. This concentration creates high density within the city but generates little transit demand. Students may go to other areas such as Hudson or the Twin Cities, but not at regular times or to common destinations. Similarly, people commuting into River Falls come from many different areas at different times during the day. The city is located nearly 40 miles from downtown Minneapolis (the region's primary transit destination). Long-distance transit service requires extensive "non -revenue" service times because buses must travel additional miles with no passengers to reach peripheral facilities. This provides fewer opportunities to offset the cost of the service with fare revenue from passengers, and buses cannot make more than one trip per peak period. Accounting for the inflated density of the University and long distance from major transit destinations, River halls may not warrant express service to the Twin Cities, but may continue to be a `pocket' area. The city's shared -ride taxi system may be appropriately sized for the community's needs, and park-and-ride service closer to Minneapolis and Saint Paul could continue to serve River balls' residents who work in downtown Minneapolis and other major transit destinations in the Twin Cities region. Hudson I-ludson is the second-largest city in the three -county area, and will become the largest city in the area by 2025, fueled by the growth of the Twin Cities region. Overall densities in Hudson are not especially high, forecast to reach five persons per acre by 2025 (though these densities will likely be lower due to annexation growth of the city boundary). This low density minimizes the amount of intra -Wisconsin travel that could be efficiently provided. These needs are met with volunteer programs in place, serving many Wisconsin communities. A separate program is available for St. Croix County elderly and disabled populations. Hudson is located directly on I-94 and has several interchanges. The city is 30 miles from Minneapolis. If transit advantages such as bus -only shoulder lanes are available along the length of the corridor, a bus could make multiple trips to a Hudson park-and-ride during a peak period. In comparison, the region's current most distant route travels to Elk River (Route 888), about 33 miles from Minneapolis. Page 105 of 146 DRAFT 12/3107 Item 4 Hudson is a compelling "pocket" transit market due to its location as a gateway to the Twin Cities region from many Wisconsin communities. If commuter transit service were to be provided from Wisconsin to Minnesota, the most logical park-and-ride locations may be in or around Hudson. Roberts/Hammond/Baldwin These cities are small but growing communities along US Highway 12, north of 1-94. The densities of these areas are currently low, and annexation will likely continue to produce low- density communities along the corridor. `The communities are not expected to grow to a sufficient size to meet "pocket" market area status. Saint Croix County provides a dial -a -ride service primarily targeted towards seniors and persons with disabilities. This service or an evolution of it will continue to meet these local needs in the future, with potential park-and-ride service for downtown commuters along the 1-94 corridor. V. Conclusions- Transit Market Areas Western Wisconsin is defined by areas of low density, with small cities and rural character. This analysis evaluated the transit market potential of developed areas in St. Croix, Pierce, and Polk Counties in Wisconsin based on Twin Cities' transit market area standards. The Wisconsin transit market is limited, primarily due to low densities, lone distances between destinations, and the relatively low population within the Counties. Even with rapid development, intra -Wisconsin transit will not be feasible as regular route service under regional transit market area standards. These needs will continue to be provided locally to provide mobility to transit -dependent populations. 'These local transit services may include the service provided by the St. Croix Department on Aging or St. Croix County or the River falls share -ride taxi. A commuter market to high-density employment areas of Minneapolis and Saint Paul could be supported as well, but further analysis of the population within the Wisconsin Counties will be required. A, critical mass of workers must be available to support park-and-ride operations frons Hudson. Tile next portion of this study evaluates this potential market using employment and housing dynamics data. Txaxsrtzaastoenatndr of #, Then;#7' Page 106 of 116 DRAFT 1214107 Item 5 Item S: Describe proven steps that carr be, taken to iniprove transit attractiveness and demand. For example: • park and rule availability • bicycle and walk access and facilities • promotional free rides, passes and redeemable coul)ons • attractive transit stations Improving transit attractiveness and demand In low density areas such as western Wisconsin, regular route transit service feasibility depends on concentrating transit demand at park-and-ride facilities. Today western Wisconsin uses park- and-l7ool lots, facilities not served by transit, concentrate dennand to facilitate carpooling. In Minnesota, park-and-ride lots provide Minnesota and Wisconsin commuters access to transit service. A number of factors can enhance the success of a park-and-ride facility, improving the attractiveness and increasing demand for transit service. I Situation Today Wisconsin - Currently neither the local Northwest Region nor the central office of the Wisconsin Department of Transportation has an official policy regarding Park & Ride lots along the State Trunk Highway System. Present practice is to leave it up to each individual region to the methodology of locating, financing and constructing a Park & Ride facility. Historically, the Northwest Region (WisDOT) -- Lau Claire office has financed and constructed Park & Ride facilities as part of the construction of a highway improvement project on a major commuter corridor. The Park & Ride facilities were constructed using excess right-of-way that was purchase for the project.. The major commuter corridors in the Region are been primarily located in St. Croix County and include 114 94, USH 63 and STH 35 and 65. Minnesota - Elements of the Minnesota Park and Ride policy are described within the more general comments below. The Metropolitan Council has also developed a regional plan for the Metro, to compare needs between regions and along specific corridors, through the year 2030. The Park and Ride Facility Site Location flan can be found at: l t ://www.3lietrocouncil,or 71Parl<Itidei acilitySiteLocation/plan.htrn IL What makes a park-and-ride facility successful? Recent examples of successful park-and-ride facilities include the SouthWest Metro Transit Station in Eden Prairie, the Maple GroveTransit Station, the Eagan Transit Station, the Apple Valley Transit Station, the Burnsville Transit Center and the United Artists Theatre lot in Woodbury. These facilities have large surface lots (greater than 200 spaces) or even structured parking facilities. The most successful park-and-ride facilities are integrated in larger, more diverse commercial areas. These modern park-and-ride facilities offer better visibility, improved lighting and all -day activity in and around these facilities. In addition, the high demand for transit in these areas allows large facilities and frequent transit service, with bus service as frequent as every ten minutes during peak periods. Page 107 of 116 DRAFT 1.2/4/07 Item 5 Early regional park-and-ride lots were typically joint -use facilities. These small surface lots (less than 100 spaces) were often located at churches and strip malls. Many of these facilities still exist today and remain important to the transit system, but they have not had the same success that larger transit facilities have experienced. This is due especially to the limited bus service (fewer than three peak trips) that could serve the facilities. In addition, joint -use facilities sometimes exceed ]eased parking capacity, creating problems for other uses, leading to the park- and-ride lot's closure or relocation, creating variability in the system. Demand for Service A sufficient level of preexisting demand for transit is the most important criterion for the success of any transit service, including park-and-ride facilities. A pre-existing, substantial concentration of origins and destinations is needed for successful service. For the Twin Cities express commuter network, park-and-ride service is tailored towards three primary destinations: downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul, and the University of Minnesota. Downtown Minneapolis is the largest market; most express trips in the region are destined for Minneapolis. There are over 130,000 jobs in downtown Minneapolis, and approximately 68,000 parking spaces. As a result, downtown Minneapolis has high parking costs compared to the rest of the region, and continues to be a strong and growing destination for transit service. Demand for express transit between suburban areas is low, because destinations are widely dispersed and there is usually plentiful, free parking. Transit service between suburbs with sufficient speed to attract riders could not offer reasonable walking distances in almost every suburban area. While transit improvements help capture market share, meeting the underlying travel demand is paramount to efficient transit service. Park-and-ride facility criteria can be divided into essential (required for a successful facility) and preferred (enhance the facility's success) criteria. These are applied to the general location of the facility, as well as site-specific design issues. Essential Criteria Location • Low -Density Areas, Less than Full Transit Service Coverage • Majoi- Travel Corridor 1 Activity Center • Nearby Facility Reirnforccinent • Transit Service Relllforcenient Location site -Specific • Convenient Access to 1 lighway System • Convenient Vehicle Access (transit & auto) • Minimum Capacity- 200 spaces • Local Area factors- Zoning, etc. Preferred Criteria • Congested 'Travel Corridor • Upstream of Major Traffic Congestion • Transit Advantages • Transit Travel Time to Major Activity Center Site-Specif c • "Transit Advantages (taus shoulder, HOV bypass) • Good Visibility from Primary Roadway(s) Page 108 of 146 Future On-site Expansion Potential Upstream of Primary Access Point DRAFT 1214107 Item 5 Surface Parkiiig (structured only if necessary) Location Geographic location is an important indicator of a park-and-ride facility's market area. Successful facilities are located with proximity and access to regional highways, preferably on the "inbound" side of the roadway for easy access and good visibility. The most successful facilities are located where freeways or expressways converge with reliever roads. Few transit custorriers will backtrack to a park-and-ride facility, particularly if they must cross a river or other natural feature that serves as a barrier to movement. Thus, Minnesota commuters are unlikely to cross to use Wisconsin facilities. On the other hand, crossing the St. Croix River is a natural barrier to movement that creates a favorable situation for Wisconsin commuters to use transit, particularly as the corridor becomes more heavily traveled and if transit advantages such as bus -only shoulders are available for the trip. For optimal transit service efficiency, the transit travel time from the park-and-ride facility to the transit destination should be minimized. The current rule of thumb is a maximum, one-way transit travel time of 45 minutes because the vehicle serving the first and potentially second peak period trip could be used for another trip late in the peak period. A transit travel time of 30 minutes is the current norm. Distance will differ by corridor due to congestion levels and availability of transit advantages, but the most distant facilities are located 30 or fewer miles from their primary destination. Finally, the market area will depend on a facility's position within a travel corridor and proximity to other pack -arid -rides. Lots located too close to one another often compete for riders, diluting the efficiency of transit service. The park-and-ride facility located at a corridor's end (the furthest from a corridor's activity center such as a CBD) will draw users from more distant locations than park-and-ride facilities located within a corridor. Increased coordination by entities involved in planning and operating park-and-ride facilities will lead to a more efficient system that accommodates transit riders. Facility Size/Service Level Facility size and transit service levels can influence both the extent and concentration of a facility's market area. As shown at Foley Boulevard Park -and -Ride, Burnsville Transit Station, Southwest Transit Station and Maple Glove Transit Station, relatively large facilities (facilities greater than 200 spaces) tend to draw from geographically larger market areas than smaller, similarly located facilities. "These larger facilities also tend to attract a higher concentration of downtown commuters from the area immediately surrounding the facility. At a bare minimum, a facility must offer at least three exclusive, peak period express bus trips. This corresponds to a minimum of 150 parking spaces. Without this minimum service level, most park-and-ride users will bypass the facility to a larger park-and-ride closer to the destination market that offers more frequent service or better passenger amenities. Park -and -pools, facilities not served by transit service, are important elements of the system as a whole. These facilities fill-in the gaps of the transit service network in areas along the perimeter Page 109 of 1316 DRAFT 1214107 Item s of metropolitan area growth. 'these facilities can serve as "land banks" for future conversion to park-and-ride facilities if land is available to expand them. Expanding park-and-ride sites is often easier and faster than building entirely new facilities, particularly if land is available onsite or on adjacent property. Park -and -pool facilities in Wisconsin could serve as potential park-and-ride sites, if they meet the essential park-and-ride criteria described above. Amenities Transit amenities at park-and-ride facilities are important as well. Heated shelters offer a warm place to wait for a bus. For large facilities, a shelter could be an indoor station with restrooms, vending machines, or retail services. Nationally, some areas with very large transit stations offer more extensive services, including dry-cleaning and daycare services. Technology can offer passenger amenities as well. Passenger information systems, which include both static and dynamic systems, are important tools for providing directions to transfer points and real-time service information. These could include real-time "next bus" signage at stations. The internet-based "trip planner" and related materials for the Twin Cities has been successful. Under the Metropolitan Council's Transportation Policy Plan, a network of passenger information systems will be deployed and installed at transit stations and centers, and through electronic media such as the Internet other telecommunications. III. Other Factors Influencing Transit Demand Bicycle and Pedestrian Access Most park-and-ride facilities do not exclusively serve drivers. Most park-and-ride facilities are equipped with bicycle racks or lockers, offering a healthy option for some transit users. In addition., facilities are designed for pedestrian access on-site with sidewalks and, in most cases, shelter areas. Communities can further enhance pedestrian and bicycle connections to transit service by designing non -motorized transportation amenities such as sidewalks and bike paths to connect with transit infrastructure. Planning and implementing these connections offers safe, convenient access for local residents to transit. Integrated transit and non -motorized facilities are best accomplished through communities' comprehensive planning processes. The transit vision of a city's comprehensive plan can be realized through specific pedestrian and bicycle plans, in coordination with regional transit facilities planning. Security Security is an important feature to any park and ride or park and pool lot. Without it, transit users and carpoolers become afraid to use the facility or leave their vehicle. Security is greatly improved through a few simple measures. Locate the park and ride in an area with good visibility and self-monitoring through nearby highways. Do not use berms or other landscaping like shrubs or pine trees that block visibility. Install lighting at the park and ride. Security is also important on the bus ride. This can be handled through an emergency system on the bus and driver training, as well as planned response frorn state/local police or transit police. Marketing Like any product or service, the success of transit depends on consumer awareness and promotions. New or expanded transit service relies on advertising, media coverage, and visibility Page 110 of 116 DRAFT 1214107 Item 5 to be successful. MetroTransit and other regional transit providers use a variety of marketing techniques to promote transit service. For new or expanded service, a variety of techniques may be used. One technique is to target promotions free rides to the market area of a new facility. Mailing single -use free rides could encourage some riders to take transit. Another techniques is to coordinate with Universities and other major employers to provide transit awareness/education, and to organize reduced fares. Other techniques include incentives for transit passes, mailings to inform riders of new facilities or service expansion, traditional advertising, or other methods. `I'hc visibility of transit facilities is important as well. A park-and-ride visible from the highway is recognizable to potential risers. In many cases, a bus running on a bus -only shoulder past congested lanes of traffic serves as an excellent promotion tool, as potential users see firsthand a fast and efficient alternative to driving in congestion. Increased Auto Costs Gas prices, car insurance, and parking fees are all examples of costs the average driver incurs. When these costs go up, transit becomes a more attractive alternative. 1-Iowever, these costs are beyond the control of a transit operator, and are outside the scope of this study. IV. Conclusion to Improving Transit Attractiveness & Demand In summary, a sufficient underlying base of demand must be present for a transit service to be successful. Like most developing areas, western Wisconsin transit demand centers on express bus access to major regional downtown employment centers. Once this demand is established, major steps can be taken to improve the attractiveness of transit. Service levels are the primary factor, as many commuters will bypass areas with low service to larger facilities offering more frequent trips. Passenger amenities, convenient access, and increased awareness of transit service options also increase transit demand and help to retain loyal riders while relieving congestion on roadways. Page 111 of 116 DRAFT 1214107 Item S Item #s: Clearly identify, in each state, how transit is funded for site-specific set -vices at the local, state, and federal levels. L Transit funding mechanisms In August, 2006, the study oversight team discussed the information needed to clearly identify how transit is funded. They created column headings for organizing information, which was then filled in by representatives from local, state, and federal agencies that handle transit funding. Their responses appear in the following pages. IL Possibilities for funding transit across St. Croix River From the agencies responsible for administering transit funding, some possibilities were mentioned for funding transit across the St. Croix River. The ideas listed are possibilities, not recommendations or suggestions. a. State initiative for funding Mn/DOT and Wis/DOT could develop a Joint Powers Agreement with its own policy board to establish shared funding for a Transit Program to provide transit across state lines. The Joint Powers Board would act as the administrative, policy and fiscal manager of interstate transit services. The Joint Powers Board would also determine the level (frequency) and scope (area) of services and the program budget. Both Mn/DOT and Wis/DOT would review and approve the program and budget to determine each state's fiscal obligation. Funding sources for the transit service could be state and/or ITA funds. However, no funds currently exist in either state specifically for interstate transit service. b. Local initiatives for finding The majority of national cases and local state cases of interstate transit service is predominantly funded by 1.) the smaller City or County paying the larger City, County, or Metropolitan Planning Organization to run transit service, or 2.) the smaller City or County paying for transit service that travels to the larger City. Along the St. Croix, as shown in the market analysis section of the study, the most feasible interstate transit origin City is Hudson, and the most feasible origin County is St. Croix. The City of Hudson or St. Croix County (or both together) could apply to Wis/DOT for the Rural & Small Urban Areas Public Transportation Assistance Program (often referred to as 5311 federal program funding). This program has the ability to be used for operating costs (50% local match) and capital (20% local match). Also, with some route distance restrictions from the applying urban area, Cities and Counties can apply for separate state operating funding. If the application is granted, this state money counts as part of the 50% local match for 5311 federal funding—r-neaning the City or County pays less than 50% of the operating costs. However, the more applicants that receive funding through this state operating program, the smaller "piece of the pie" each receiving City/County gets. Therefore, this state source of funding may become smaller with the passage of time. Page 112 of 116 DRAhT 1214107 Item S If the City of Hudson or St. Croix County chose to pay the Metropolitan Council for Metro Transit to operate the service, there would have to be an agreement or arrangement for the City/County to receive the farebox recovery for their routes. This is the case for both Duluth/Superior and La Crosse/La Crescent. The costs are apportioned between the two municipalities based on mutual agreement and contracts between the entities. Each side pays for its portion of the expenses and receives back its portion of the revenues from farebox recovery. An additional ways to fund transit service include examples like Milwaukee County, which has levied its own transit tax. In the Minnesota Metro area, part of transit's funding conies from the transit taxing district (property taxes). Duluth/Superior also has a taxing area (on both sides of the river) from which it draws a portion of the operating funding for transit. Page 113 of 116 N a m o o c m o a L a C 01 G Oz T Y N if @ C L) cz c 0 m c 0 m 'E c iE Eco Cto m 41 7 rn x Ocnx Qmx p C '� o uyro-an — `o 7 N O P O O O O P O ON N N y a ap] z z z z z z z>z �T7 ra c N7�6"-� �_ O al ca N C O N O OC C3p CCm uU Oa mrn LL m m -co N wm AN "NOv m o �^ �O1 O. l vEv m w m 10 a m av ] < U¢v� a ) ¢ ?� E v E m N v.....! 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