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2004-01-14 Airport Relations Commission Mintues2004-01-14 Airport Relations Commission Mintues.txt[1/25/2018 4:21:19 PM] CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA AIRPORT RELATIONS COMMISSION MINUTES January 14, 2004 The regular meeting of the Mendota Heights Airport Relations Commission was held on Wednesday, January 14, 2004, at 7:00 p.m., in the Large Conference Room at City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve, Mendota Heights, Minnesota. The following Commissioners were present: Scott Beaty, Vern Edstrom, Gregg Fitzer, Liz Petschel, Mike Povolny, and Ellsworth Stein. Staff present: Jim Danielson, City Administrator; Jack Vitelli, Council Member and NOC Representative and Bonita Sullivan, Recorder. Ms. Sullivan took the minutes. Approval of Minutes Approval of the November 12, 2003 minutes. Commissioner Petschel had corrections. She referenced: Page two, first paragraph, second line should be ‘Acacia property’ not ‘Arcadia property’. Page two, first paragraph, third line should read ‘a letter to Les Case’ not Guy Heide. Page two, third paragraph should read ‘Commissioner Petschel reviewed the 84-38 Resolution noting that Council Member Krebsbach has stated, all along, that Mendota Heights provided a safe corridor with surrounding land provisions. She stated that the Residents were asking for a decrease in the noise levels and explained that the letters address the increased noise activity in the neighborhoods as a result of the Eagan Tower Order. She noted that Les Case, in his letters to Mr. Friel, states that they can’t because of the 15-degree separation when in fact that had nothing to do with it. Chair Beaty had corrections. He referenced: Page two, City Administrator’s Update, first paragraph, fourth line should read ‘Merland Otto’ not ‘Merlin Datto’. Council Member Vitelli had corrections. He referenced page five, NOC Update, paragraph six should read ‘Council Member Vitelli stated that the NOC is scheduled to meet next in January 2004.’ A motion was made by Commissioner Petschel, seconded by Commissioner Fitzer to approve the minutes for November 12, 2003 as amended. Motion carried 6-0. Commission Meeting January 14, 2004 Mendota Heights Airport Relations Commission Unfinished/New Business A. Introduction Packet City Administrator Danielson stated that at the last ARC meeting the Commission discussed the preparation of an Introduction Packet to provide useful information for the City Council, Residents and new Commission members. He stated that he had been asked to bring an introduction binder to the meeting noting that he had located several binders that the Commission would be able to review for possible information that could be included in the packets. He stated that he also had copies of an introduction tape with glossary, a noise flyer, copy of the annual Airport Relations Commission Presentation to City Council and information on air noise from the MAC website. 2004-01-14 Airport Relations Commission Mintues.txt[1/25/2018 4:21:19 PM] Commissioner Petschel stated that she would be willing to review the binders for information and articles that could be used in the packet. City Administrator Danielson suggested that he and Commissioner Petschel meet to review the documents. He also suggested that she meet with Administrative Assistant Hollister. Commissioner Petschel agreed stating that she would call to make an appointment to review the information. Chair Beaty noted that the Commission had discussed the need for introductions and a glossary. He stated that he would like to get something pulled together with information they have gathered to date. He stated that a first draft could be put together with the information they currently have and the Commission could begin to review at the next ARC meeting. Commissioner Petschel stated that she would review the documentation and sequence for ARC review at the next meeting. She stated that once the packet is put together they could use it as the Master Packet, pulling information based on a need to know. She suggested including a charter with definitions that could go to City Council for their review. Commissioner Edstrom suggested including the Airport Relations Commission goals and objectives. City Administrator Danielson stated that he spoke with Staff regarding an ARC article in the City newsletter. He explained that there was not enough time to place an article for the next City newsletter and suggested putting together an ARC article for N.O.I.S.E. in the interim. He said that the next City newsletter would be done in the Spring. Chair Beaty suggested putting together an article on the NOC that would provide an overview of their objectives and membership. City Administrator Danielson stated that he would draft an article for their review at the next ARC meeting in February. Commission Meeting January 14, 2004 Mendota Heights Airport Relations Commission B. NOC By-Laws Review Chair Beatty stated that at the last meeting the Commission had discussed an interest in reviewing the NOC By-Laws. He noted that the By-Laws were established by the Blue Ribbon Task Force and asked when Council Member Vitelli’s term began. Council Member Vitelli stated that he has been with the NOC for approximately one year. Chair Beatty asked if the NOC was receiving good representation at their meetings with respect to the Residents. Council Member Vitelli stated that they have had very good attendance at their meetings. Commissioner Edstrom stated that in reviewing the NOC’s mission and taking into consideration all of the MAC information, that it might be appropriate to include the various metro Cities ARC Commissions as a reference. Chair Beaty stated that the voting members of the NOC do have ARC Commission including Bloomington, Richfield, Mendota Heights, Minneapolis, Eagan and Inver Grove Heights. Commissioner Edstrom clarified that the NOC meetings are not open meetings where the Citizens have the ability to speak impromptu. Council Member Vitelli explained that the NOC does have a process in place that provides Citizens with an opportunity to speak and present. He stated that the meetings are open to the public noting that the Committee reviews all presentations for content prior to the NOC meetings. He noted that handwritten input is also acknowledged and recognized by the Committee. Chair Beaty asked if the City had determined what their expectations are for the NOC Representatives. Council Member Vitelli clarified that they had not. Chair Beaty referenced Mr. Heide’s presentation to City Council in December and expressed 2004-01-14 Airport Relations Commission Mintues.txt[1/25/2018 4:21:19 PM] disappointment at the lack of support for Mr. Heide. Council Member Vitelli explained that the agenda was accurate in what Mr. Heide initially intended to present noting that he did not stay with the agenda. Commissioner Petschel explained to Council Member Vitelli that Mr. Heide was only trying to explain the present appeal and the process they were planning to take. Chair Beaty suggested determining what the ARC expectations are of the NOC representative. He stated that he would like the Commission, along with Council Member Vitelli, to work together to determine their expectations. He stated that he views his role as similar to the MASAC, to protect the City and Citizens with respect to noise issues. Council Member Vitelli asked the Commission if they felt he was meeting their expectations. Chair Beaty expressed his disappointment in how Mr. Heide was treated and reviewed his concerns with the Commission. He stated that he expected more support from the NOC representative for Mr. Heide than what he did receive. Council Member Vitelli clarified that his question was with respect to the information and material he has presented and provided to Council regarding the NOC and noise concerns for Mendota Heights. He expressed concerns regarding Mr. Heide’s suggestions towards the MAC Commission Meeting January 14, 2004 Mendota Heights Airport Relations Commission adding that Mr. Heide should have clarified his full objective at the beginning of his presentation. He explained that the Council does not want to be involved in the legal issues. Commissioner Petschel acknowledged noting that there may have been errors that went uncorrected. She reviewed the use of the 4-22 and the map and clarified that Mr. Heide and the Rogers Lake East group have filed an appeal not a lawsuit. She stated that there is no chance that their appeal would ever become a lawsuit adding that it was never their intent to draw the City Council into the process. She explained that Mr. Heide’s intent, in his presentation, was to clarify the appeal process for Council. She stated that he wanted to explain because several of the Council members have stated that they did not understand the full intent of their appeal. She stated that Mr. Heide has a hearing scheduled before the FAA noting that he has also met with the State Attorney General and Senator Dayton. She stated that all have said his presentation is one of the most knowledgeable and best presented of the grassroots groups. She noted that their group is very well documented and self supported. Commissioner Fitzer agreed with Commissioner Petschel stating that sometimes mistakes that are ignored can become larger issues down the road. He stated that it is possible that Mr. Heide and his group have come across the issue at hand. He suggested that the Commission step back and allow it to run its course. Chair Beaty agreed. Council Member Vitelli stated that he has a high level of faith in Mr. Hamiel and the MAC Staff. He explained that the Governor appoints the MAC representatives. Chair Beaty noted that both MAC representatives and Staff are involved in the process adding that he would like to see it run its course adding that he would like to see it err to the side of the Citizen. He stated that he would expect the NOC Representative to jump in and provide some form of assistance, which brings back the point of the ARC expectations of the NOC Representative. He suggested that the Commission work with Council Member Vitelli in determining their expectations and provide to the Council for their review. Commissioner Edstrom asked if Council Member Vitelli represents the Citizens of Mendota Heights or the MAC. Council Member Vitelli stated that he clearly represents the citizens. Council Member Vitelli clarified the reporting structure of the NOC. He explained that he is a part of a Commission that is a sub-sub commission to the MAC. He stated that the MAC has reviewed Mr. Heide’s concerns several times and the MAC has made the conclusion that they have responded to Mr. Heide and do not intend to respond any further. He noted that the City Council has also decided not to become involved with Mr. Heide’s appeal due to potential legal 2004-01-14 Airport Relations Commission Mintues.txt[1/25/2018 4:21:19 PM] issues. Council Member Vitelli stated that he has raised several issues with the MAC and the NOC in support of the Citizens of Mendota Heights. He expressed concerns that the ARC does not believe that he is doing the right job. Commissioner Edstrom clarified that the ARC is asking for more definition with respect to asking for an outline of the NOC representatives’ responsibilities. Council Member Vitelli expressed disappointment that the Commission members did not discuss their concerns regarding Mr. Heide with him directly. The Commission acknowledged noting that having a discussion like this is very difficult. Commission Meeting January 14, 2004 Mendota Heights Airport Relations Commission Council Member Vitelli stated that he is very willing to take any issues or concerns the Commission has to the NOC and asked for further direction from the Commission. He acknowledged that he could be more assertive in representing Mendota Heights. He stated that he believes he has built a solid credibility with the group and reviewed several discussions from the NOC meetings with the ARC Commission. Commissioner Petschel referenced the new map currently being reviewed for approval stating that the Commission would like Council Member Vitelli to watch where the operations fall in comparison to what is approved. She suggested that he also keep an eye on the new runway projections. Council Member Vitelli stated that Mendota Heights would benefit considerably if the forecasts are correct for the North/South runway. Commissioner Petschel stated that the numbers Mr. Leqve had given him were different than what he had presented to the ARC. She strongly suggested that he monitor the forecasts as they move forward. Chair Beaty stated that it is important that the ARC put together a plan of action that includes responsibilities and expectations for the NOC Representative. He explained that he sees the NOC Representative as their resource to present and bring their issues to the forefront. Council Member Vitelli suggested that the ARC work together on the fanning issue. He noted that the EIS includes a forecast that shows noise levels decreasing. Chair Beaty stated that Mendota Heights has been told that for over ten years and yet the noise levels continue to increase. Commissioner Povolny referenced the Tower Order stating that it should have been dealt with a long time ago. He stated that it was his understanding that they did not do anything because of the Environmental Impact Study. Chair Beaty referenced the track as a possible issue. Commissioner Fitzer stated that they should be careful with any proposals as it would or could greatly impact the area. Commissioner Edstrom agreed noting that most aircraft are not equipped to fly the track. Chair Beaty acknowledged Commissioner Polovny’s point regarding the Tower Order stating that the ARC has worked with that issue for several years. He stated that there are several letters between Les Case and Bernie Friel that discuss the issues around the Tower Order. He suggested that Council Member Vitelli review the Bernie Friel file. Commissioner Petschel suggested working on issues regarding the sound abatement. She suggested that they add that as an agenda item to assist Council Member Vitelli in prioritizing what issues/concerns should be presented to the NOC. Commissioner Petschel stated that the Tower has experienced considerable turnover in the recent past noting that the group is relatively new. She stated that some time has passed and the new Controllers have had some time to adjust to the processes, which could make some of these issues easier to implement. Commissioner Edstrom stated that they should be able to review the Noise Exposure Map after February. 2004-01-14 Airport Relations Commission Mintues.txt[1/25/2018 4:21:19 PM] Commission Meeting January 14, 2004 Mendota Heights Airport Relations Commission Commissioner Petschel referenced the Capital Improvement Budget for 2004 stating that a portion has been set aside for sound insulation. She stated that they have finished the 65 and that it is their plan to begin working the 60/65 areas. She noted that they have an asterisk with no dollar amounts assigned and asked if this meant that there is no actual commitment in the budget to do it. She stated that this is a promise that was made that should be kept. She stated that this was one of the original promises Northwest Airlines made when they lobbied to keep the airport in its current location. Council Member Vitelli stated that there are several groups pressing for budget dollars adding that he would discuss the budget issues with Mr. Leqve and update the Commission. Council Member Vitelli suggested that the ARC alert him of issues ahead of time, prior to the NOC meetings. He stated that knowing the issues ahead of time would be useful and very helpful for him when speaking with MAC and NOC Representatives. Commissioner Edstrom clarified that the ARC would put together items and issues for Council Member Vitelli to better assist him in his representation of the Citizens of Mendota Heights. Commissioner Stein expressed concerns and asked if the NOC filters the information too well to get through to the MAC. Council Member Vitelli assured the Commission that the NOC members are very thorough when reviewing any issues or concerns that have been brought to their attention. Chair Beaty stated that they would include this discussion as an agenda item for the next ARC meeting. He assured Council Member Vitelli that the ARC does not feel that he is doing a bad job adding that the ARC would be more comfortable with an outline of expectations for the NOC Representative. C. City Administrator Update City Administrator Danielson provided the Commission with the following update on City Council activities: • City Council has approved the Third Parallel Runway Agreement. City Council has asked for a comparison to Minneapolis and will present the findings at the next City Council meeting. • Pilot Knob Road Environmental Impact Study is still in limbo adding that the EIS has been ordered for completion. He stated that the entire amount has to be funded by the developer noting that there is no specific due date for completion. He stated that until the developer comes forward with the dollars the EIS would remain on hold. Commissioner Petschel noted that it was reported that the developer met with the affected parties. City Administrator Danielson explained that it was a scoping meeting. He further explained that the developer was concerned about the ability for give and take and decided to hold a Public Hearing. He stated that they did not get a very good response. Chair Beaty suggested informing the MAC that Jim Danielson has replaced Cari Lindberg as the Mendota Heights City Administrator. Commission Meeting January 14, 2004 Mendota Heights Airport Relations Commission Acknowledge Receipt of Various Reports/Correspondence: The Commission briefly reviewed the following documents: • Article from Metro Region “Activist faults airport-noise panel.’ • Email from Chad Leqve • Memorandum from Nigel D. Finney. • Email from Scott Beaty • Email from Jack Vitelli • Airport Noise Report, December 5, 2003 • Airport Noise Report, December 12, 2003 • Airport Noise Report, December 26, 2003 2004-01-14 Airport Relations Commission Mintues.txt[1/25/2018 4:21:19 PM] • MAC meeting minutes from the December meeting of the Planning Environment Committee. • MAC approved 2004 Capital Improvement Program OTHER COMMENTS OR CONCERNS Commissioner Petschel stated that legislation is being introduced that would require real estate agents to include and disclose air traffic paths for homes located in the Mendota Heights area. Commissioner Edstrom expressed concerns regarding the reporting structure for the NOC to the MAC. He stated that it was his understanding that the NOC was an Oversite Committee for the MAC yet MAC has final approval. Commissioner Petschel stated that nighttime noise is the biggest source of noise and complaints. She stated that this would be NOC’s biggest issue to address. She agreed, going forward, to help identify issues for Council Member Vitelli and continue to keep him informed of current issues in Mendota Heights. Commissioner Povolny asked for clarification of the crossover procedures. Chair Beaty reviewed the crossover procedures and operations changes with the Commission. Agenda Items for the February 2004 Commission Meeting: • Introduction packet for new Commissioners and Residents. • Friel File Discussion. • Issues for NOC The Commission agreed, by consensus, to adjourn the meeting at 9:00 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Bonita Sullivan TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.