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2022-08-16 City Council Agenda PacketCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS CITY COUNCIL AGENDA August 16, 2022 – 6:00 pm Mendota Heights City Hall 1.Call to Order 2.Roll Call 3.Pledge of Allegiance 4.Adopt Agenda 5.Consent Agenda a.Approval of August 3, 2022 City Council Minutes b.Acknowledge the July 12, 2022 Park and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes c.Resolution 2022-63 & 2022-64 Ordering the Preparation of Feasibility Reports for Victoria Curve Street Improvements and Emerson Avenue Street Improvements d.Resolution 2022-62 Authorize Sale of Fleet Vehicle – 2013 Ford Explorer e.Approve Purchase Order for Tree Removals f.Authorize the posting for a communications coordinator g.Accept Firefighter Resignations from the Mendota Heights Fire Department h.Acknowledge the June Par 3 Financial Report i.Approve Massage Therapist License – Sarah Nelson j.Approve Resolution 2022-65 Approving an Administrative (Minor Development) MRCCA Permit to 1065 Douglas Road – Jessica & Zachary Shaheen (Planning Case. No. 2022-18) k.Approve July, 2022 Building Activity Report l.Approval of Claims List 6.Citizen Comment Period (for items not on the agenda) *See guidelines below 7. Presentations 8.Public Hearings 9.New and Unfinished Business a.Resolution 2022-61 Discussing the Regional Roadway System Visioning Study b.Volunteer Program update c.Consideration of Field Renovation Work at Civic Center Baseball Field d.Consideration of Temporary Wentworth Park Warming House for 2022-2023 Season 10.Community Announcements 11.Council Comments 12. Adjourn Guidelines for Citizen Comment Period: The Citizen Comments section of the agenda provides an opportunity for the public to address the Council on items which are not on the agenda. All are welcome to speak. Comments should be directed to the Mayor. Comments will be limited to 5 minutes per person and topic; presentations which are longer than five minutes will need to be scheduled with the City Clerk to appear on a future City Council agenda. Comments should not be repetitious. Citizen comments may not be used to air personal attacks, to air personality grievances, to make political endorsements, or for political campaign purposes. Council members will not enter into a dialogue with citizens, nor will any decisions be made at that presentation. Questions from the Council will be for clarification only. Citizen comments will not be used as a time for problem solving or reacting to the comments made, but rather for hearing the citizen for information only. If appropriate, the Mayor may assign staff for follow up to the issues raised. CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY STATE OF MINNESOTA Minutes of the Regular Meeting Held Wednesday, August 3, 2022 Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the regular meeting of the City Council, City of Mendota Heights, Minnesota was held at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve, Mendota Heights, Minnesota. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Levine called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Councilors Duggan, Mazzitello, and Miller, were also present. Councilor Paper was absent. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Council, the audience, and staff recited the Pledge of Allegiance. AGENDA ADOPTION Mayor Levine presented the agenda for adoption. Councilor Mazzitello moved adoption of the agenda. Councilor Miller seconded the motion. Ayes: 4 Nays: 0 CONSENT CALENDAR Mayor Levine presented the consent calendar and explained the procedure for discussion and approval. Councilor Duggan moved approval of the consent calendar as presented, pulling items A, C, D, E, and K. a.Approval of July 19, 2022 City Council Minutes b. Approval of July 19, 2022 Council Work Session Minutes c.Acknowledge the June 28, 2022 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes d. Approve Temporary Liquor License for Holy Family Maronite Catholic Church e.Approve Hire of Probationary Firefighters f.Approve Purchase Order for Manhole Rehabilitation on Chippewa Avenue g. Approve Purchase of 2017 Ford Explorer h.Out of the Metro Travel Authorization – Minnesota Recreation and Park Association Conference i.Acknowledge June 2022 Fire Synopsis j.Approval of June 2022 Treasurer’s Report k. Approval of Claims List Councilor Mazzitello seconded the motion. Ayes: 4 5aPage 1 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Nays: 0 PULLED CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS A) APPROVAL OF JULY 19, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES Councilor Duggan noted on page seven, Item C, and believed the word “proposed” should be added into the resolution. Councilor Mazzitello commented that this is the title of the resolution that was adopted and therefore the name of the resolution cannot be changed. He stated that the title of the resolution is listed verbatim in the minutes and that cannot be changed at this time. City Attorney Elliot Knetsch agreed with Councilor Mazzitello that is the title of the resolution and it cannot be changed. City Clerk Christine Lusian noted that although the title of the resolution cannot be changed, an explanation could be added that could perhaps satisfy Councilor Duggan. Councilor Duggan agreed that he would like that explanation that something was proposed, discussed, and then adopted. Councilor Miller moved to approve OF JULY 19, 2022 CITY COUNCIL MINUTES WITH THE NOTED CHANGE. Councilor Duggan seconded the motion. Further discussion: Councilor Mazzitello noted that the term proposal was used at least twice in the discussion for that item. He believed that it was already clear in the minutes that this was proposed before adoption. Ayes: 3 Nays: 1 (Mazzitello) C) ACKNOWLEDGE THE JUNE 28, 2022 PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Councilor Duggan noted on page 15, condition 8, noting that he was unsure that the groundcover could be established that quickly. He asked where the words established, protected, and permanent are defined. Community Development Director Tim Benetti replied that this is a typical condition attached to land use projects. He noted that escrow is held until that groundcover is established. He noted that the determination is made by staff. Councilor Duggan questioned whether the eight conditions attached to the pool permit for 1903 Hunter Lane should be reviewed by Council and formally adopted as standard approval conditions for all pool permit applicants. Page 2 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Community Development Director Tim Benetti noted that the Council did approve that condition in the resolution that was adopted at the last meeting. Councilor Duggan stated that perhaps that discussion should have come before the Council for input. Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek stated that this takes language out of the Land Disturbance Document and places it in a condition to make those requirements clear to applicants. He stated that restoration is a very important part of the project and that is why the item was called out specifically. Councilor Duggan moved to acknowledge THE JUNE 28, 2022 PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES. Councilor Mazzitello seconded the motion. Ayes: 4 Nays: 0 D) APPROVE TEMPORARY LIQUOR LICENSE FOR HOLY FAMILY MARONITE CATHOLIC CHURCH Councilor Duggan noted language within the third paragraph, “giving away liquor” and asked if that is new language. City Clerk Christine Lusian noted that the language is not new and likely a direct reference of state law and/or code. She noted that she can clarify and follow up. Councilor Duggan moved to approve TEMPORARY LIQUOR LICENSE FOR HOLY FAMILY MARONITE CATHOLIC CHURCH. Councilor Mazzitello seconded the motion. Ayes: 4 Nays: 0 E) APPROVE HIRE OF PROBATIONARY FIREFIGHTERS Mayor Levine acknowledged that there will be four new probationary firefighters that will be joining the ranks of the Fire Department and recognized those individuals. She thanked those individuals who are volunteering to keep the community safe. Councilor Duggan referenced the budget impact and stated that he was taken back by the firefighter pay of $10.93 and noted that he would suggest that be discussed and increased in the future. Councilor Miller acknowledged that seems low but noted that is tagged to the probationary label during that time period. He noted that once that probationary period expires and if the person is moved to the next level, that salary would increase. Councilor Duggan noted that he still believes that is low and should be discussed for potential increase. Page 3 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Mayor Levine noted that this would be a great item to add to the budget agenda. She noted that while the firefighters are volunteer, they are also paid. Councilor Duggan moved to approve HIRE OF PROBATIONARY FIREFIGHTERS. Councilor Mazzitello seconded the motion. Ayes: 4 Nays: 0 K) APPROVAL OF CLAIMS LIST Councilor Duggan appreciated the additional detail on the number of trees removed. He stated that he would like additional detail to the number of homes inspected. City Administrator Cheryl Jacobson noted that would require a change to the process and procedure in order to record the number of homes inspected and staff is working on that change. Councilor Duggan moved to approve CLAIMS LIST. Councilor Mazzitello seconded the motion. Ayes: 4 Nays: 0 PUBLIC COMMENTS No one from the public wished to be heard. PRESENTATIONS A) DAKOTA COUNTY 2021 PRIVATE WELL SAMPLING RESULTS Wes Rutelonis, Dakota County, provided the results of the private well sampling from the 2021 study. He provided background information on the program, the items tested for, how samples are collected, and then reviewing the data collected from private wells within Dakota County and specific to the northern cities. He also provided details on a drinking water treatment system pilot grant program the County is running which could provide assistance to low-income residents. He stated that if anyone is experiencing these chemicals in their drinking water, they should seek treatment through the low-income program or through a water professional. He commented that it is important for private well owners to test regularly. Councilor Miller thanked Mr. Rutelonis for the presentation. He asked if there is an estimation on the number of wells in this area that did not participate in this program. Mr. Rutelonis replied that they do not have a record of all the wells that exist, as tracking began in 1974. He noted that if wells are not being used, they work with homeowners to get those sealed. He estimated 135 wells in this area. Councilor Miller asked how homeowners with wells that did not participate would go about contacting Mr. Rutelonis if they are now interested. Page 4 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Mr. Rutelonis stated that there is a water testing page on the County website that provides additional details to homeowners. He stated that they plan to test every five years. He stated that a water test kit can also be ordered on the website. Councilor Duggan asked if the County works with Saint Paul Regional Water Supply (SPRWS). Mr. Rutelonis replied that this program is delegated to wells and public water suppliers work with the Department of Health. Councilor Duggan referenced the different testing available and noted that perhaps SPRWS would be a good partner. Mr. Rutelonis stated that Dakota County’s focus is private drinking water wells which have their own unique characteristics. He noted that the public water suppliers work with the Department of Health and the folks left out of that are the private well owners, which is why the County focuses on that demographic. Councilor Duggan noted that Saint Thomas Academy has been testing the water quality in Rogers Lake for many years and suggested data sharing between the entities. Councilor Mazzitello asked if there is a requirement for the samples to be taken at the well or at the tap in the home. Mr. Rutelonis replied that two sample bottles are provided, one sample is done outside while the other is done inside the home. Mayor Levine asked if letters were sent to those with sealed wells. Mr. Rutelonis confirmed that the County is not soliciting testing of sealed wells. Mayor Levine thanked Mr. Rutelonis for the presentation. PUBLIC HEARING A) RESOLUTION 2022-58 VACATION OF EASEMENT FOR MENDOTA HEIGHTS BUSINESS PARK Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek explained that the Council was being asked to hold proceedings for Resolution 2022-58, a public hearing on an easement vacation commenced by petition for Mendota Business Park 4th Addition. Councilor Miller asked why two ponds were originally constructed rather than one large pond. Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek replied that he was unsure but noted that perhaps that worked best with the building layout. Councilor Miller asked if there would be any downfalls to having one pond versus two. Page 5 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek replied that the sanitary sewer line will be relocated along the pond edge. He stated that the irrigation will come from the stormwater pond through a reuse system. He noted that a geotechnical engineer will be a part of the process as well to ensure there are satisfactory soils. Councilor Miller asked and received confirmation that the pond to be filled was a manmade area. Councilor Mazzitello asked if the redevelopment proposal would go through the planning process. Community Development Director Tim Benetti replied that there is not a Conditional Use Permit or variance requested, and new industrial site plans do not follow that process. Councilor Mazzitello moved to open the public hearing. Councilor Miller seconded the motion. Ayes: 4 Nays: 0 There being no one coming forward to speak, Councilor Duggan moved to close the public hearing. Councilor Miller seconded the motion. Ayes: 4 Nays: 0 It was noted that a representative for the applicant was present to answer any questions. Councilor Mazzitello moved to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 2022-58 APPROVING AN EASEMENT VACATION COMMENCED BY PETITION. Councilor Duggan seconded the motion. Further discussion: Councilor Duggan asked staff the pros and cons of this moving forward. Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek stated that this is a reconfiguration of the existing pond. He stated that he is unsure if there is adequate data to say whether two small ponds or one large pond are better. He stated that the City will be granted new easement and a BMP maintenance agreement will be submitted for the pond. Ayes: 4 Nays: 0 NEW AND UNFINISHED BUSINESS A) RESOLUTION 2022-59 APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT (CUP) TO DISH WIRELESS TO INSTALL NEW CELLULAR ANTENNA IMPROVEMENTS ON TOP OF TWO RIVERS HIGH SCHOOL, 1897 DELAWARE AVENUE Community Development Director Tim Benetti provided background information on the case and stated that the Council is asked to adopt a resolution approving a conditional use permit (CUP) to DISH Wireless, which would approve the addition of a new cellular communication antennas and equipment on top of the Two Rivers High School building, located at 1897 Delaware Avenue. Page 6 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Councilor Duggan noted the discussion at the Planning Commission in the provided minutes and asked if there have been additional details provided about the FCC licensing. Community Development Director Tim Benetti replied that the applicant provided a copy of the licensure which is on file. He noted that the representative present at that meeting provided additional details to the Commission. Councilor Duggan stated that in the past there was a question as to whether co-location would cause interference with the other equipment. He asked if that has been established. Community Development Director Tim Benetti replied that is part of the FCC licensing process. Councilor Duggan noted another portion of the minutes and asked if the map has been provided that shows other potential locations. He asked if it would be proven that would not interfere with the other existing equipment. Community Development Director Tim Benetti confirmed that the applicant will need to prove that they will not interfere with the existing equipment from other vendors. Councilor Duggan referenced Item F, related to safety, and asked if that has been addressed or satisfied. Community Development Director Tim Benetti replied that will be vetted when the building permit is applied for. He noted that separate electric permits would be pulled through the State of Minnesota. Councilor Mazzitello moved to adopt RESOLUTION 2022-59 APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO ALLOW INSTALLATION FO NEW CELLULAR/WIRELESS COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT AND ANTENNAS ON THE TWO RIVERS HIGH SCHOOL FACILITY, LOCATED AT 1897 DELAWARE AVENUE. Councilor Duggan seconded the motion. Further discussion: Councilor Duggan referenced Item 6 in the proposed resolution related to lighting and/or logos. He did not believe the word “viewed” was appropriate. He instead suggested the word “seen”. Councilor Mazzitello commented that as the motioner he did not see a problem with interchanging those terms and would be fine with the friendly amendment as proposed by Councilor Duggan. Mayor Levine commented that the Planning Commission did a great job vetting the request and answering all her questions through their discussion. Councilor Mazzitello echoed those comments of Mayor Levine. Ayes: 4 Nays: 0 Page 7 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council B) RESOLUTION 2022-60 APPROVING A VARIANCE FOR NEW GARAGE ADDITION TO TIM AND MEGAN ALTIER OF 1057 ESTHER LANE Community Development Director Tim Benetti provided a brief background on this item. The Council was being asked to adopt a resolution approving a variance to 1057 Esther Lane, which would approve a new garage addition to encroach 3.3 feet into the 10-foot side-yard setback. The applicants and owners are Tim and Megan Altier. Councilor Duggan asked if there would be any landscaping next to the new addition in the side yard which could impact sight lines. Community Development Director Tim Benetti replied that the applicant does not plan to make changes to the driveway and there is an existing retaining wall. He noted that no additional landscaping has been shown. Councilor Duggan noted that if additional landscaping is added, it should not impact sight lines for those coming around the curve. The applicants noted that there were present to address any questions. Councilor Mazzitello moved to adopt RESOLUTION 2022-60 APPROVING A VARIANCE TO 1057 ESTHER LANE. Councilor Duggan seconded the motion. Further discussion: Councilor Miller noted that in a variance request there is a three-part test that must be met. He noted that the northern area of the city is unique in its platting. He commented that there are very unique and significant challenges for those that wish to make improvements to their home and/or property. He believed that the three-part test has been met and that the improvements will not only benefit the property but also the surrounding neighborhood. Councilor Mazzitello echoed the comments of Councilor Miller in allowing property owners to invest into their properties. He stated that the northern part of the city is one of four areas that were developed prior to the establishment of the uniform City Code. Councilor Duggan commented that he was privileged to listen to discussions from property owners on the north end that wished to improve their home. He stated that in today’s world, even a two-car garage is almost inadequate and therefore this is a reasonable request. Mayor Levine commended the Planning Commission for the great job it did in vetting this case and answering any questions she had. Ayes: 4 Nays: 0 COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS Page 8 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council City Administrator Cheryl Jacobson announced upcoming activities and community events. Mayor Levine encouraged residents to vote early. COUNCIL COMMENTS Councilor Miller stated that the filing period for elected offices began the previous day and runs through August 16th. He encouraged interested parties to apply for the positions of Council or Mayor. He commented that the Police and Fire departments had the opportunity to join residents at their Night to Unite parties and had a great time talking with residents outside of emergency situations. He stated that he was at Wentworth Park today with his son and friends and lost his fire pager. He thanked the resident that found the pager and returned it to the lost and found bin at City Hall. Councilor Duggan provided thoughts that he presented at the Scott Patrick memorial the previous Saturday. He encouraged residents to pause at the memorial in the next few weeks and say a prayer for Scott and all Police Officers. Councilor Mazzitello commented that there were 43 block parties in the community for Night to Unite and he managed to visit 14 parties within the course of three hours. He stated that the residents were so welcoming to Police, Fire, staff, and elected officials. He stated that Congress passed the Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act the previous day to provide compensation and treatment to Iraq and Afghanistan veterans that were exposed to toxins while deployed. He noted that this is a great step forward for honoring, treating, and compensating the veterans. Councilor Duggan commented that this is a great city, but it is only as great as those that serve. He encouraged residents to apply for the available Council and Mayoral seats. ADJOURN Councilor Duggan moved to adjourn. Councilor Mazzitello seconded the motion. Ayes: 4 Nays: 0 Mayor Levine adjourned the meeting at 7:27 p.m. ____________________________________ Stephanie Levine Mayor ATTEST: _______________________________ Christine Lusian City Clerk Page 9 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council This page intentionally left blank. Page 10 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS, DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA PARKS AND RECREATION MEETING JULY 12, 2022 The July meeting of the Mendota Heights Parks and Recreation Commission was held on Tuesday, July 12, 2022, at Mendota Heights City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve. 1. Call to Order – Chair Bob Klepperich called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. 2. Roll Call – The following Commissioners were present: Chair Bob Klepperich , Commissioners: Jaffrey Blanks, Patrick Cotter, St ephanie Meyer, and Michelle Muller; absent: Commissioner Dan Sherer and Amy Smith . Student Representative: Niko Hess. Staff present: Parks and Recreation Manager, Meredith Lawrence, Assistant City Administrator , Kelly Torkelson, Public Works Director, Ryan Ruzek, and Recreation Program Coordinator , Matt Colwell. 3. Pledge of Allegiance The Pledge of Allegiance was recited. 4. Approval of Agenda Motion Blanks/second Cotter, to approve the agenda AYES 5: NAYS 0 5.a Approval of Minutes from June 14, 2022 Regular Meeting Motion Cotter /second Blanks to approve the minutes of the June 14, 2022 Parks and Recreation Commission Regular M eeting. AYES 5: NAYS 0 6. Citizen Comment Period (for items not on the agenda) None. 7.Acknowledgement of Reports Chair Klepperich read the titles of the three updates (Par 3, Recreation, and Park Improvement Updates) and polled the Commissioners for questions. 7.a Par 3 Update Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence reported that the turf is in good condition and an irrigation audit was completed at the end of June. She commented that there are a few irrigation heads that need to be repaired/replaced. She provided an update on the senior golf passes that have been s old, noting that the program will be reassessed for 2023. She also provided an update on the approved equipment purchases , noting that staff is still awaiting delivery of the equipment but anticipate they will arrive soon. She reported that a Junior Mini PGA event was hosted on July 7 th and was a great event. She noted another award the City will be receiving for the rebranding of the Par 3 course. She also provided an overview of the May 2022 Financial Report. Chair Klepperich commented that heat can be as bad as rain in terms of diminished golf rounds, therefore it is a tremendous effort of staff in that the rounds have not been reduced in the heat. 5bPage 11 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 7.b Recreation Update Recreation Program Coordinator Matt Co lwell provided a summary of summer programing and upcoming events including pickleball lessons, fishing derby, parks celebration, and other recreation programing. Commissioner Muller noted that this is the second year the parks celebration is being held in August rather than June and asked why the date was changed. Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence stated that the change was a result of COVID-19 as things began to open up again and there was not enough time to plan for June in 2021. She noted that there was also direction from the Commission and Council to expand the event. She explained that planning a large event in June is difficult because of staffing constraints and programming, therefore August was chosen as the date. She noted that the date could be reconsidered in the future if desired, but this changed date has been working well and positive feedback has been received. Commissioner Muller commented that the previous date paired well with the mid -season tournament which helped to c reate a full day event. She noted that it also paired well with the 5K. Ms. Lawrence stated that staff has become more involved in the 5K and therefore it was not feasible for staff to be in two places at once. She noted that the MHAA tournament has als o grown, which is a good thing as well, therefore there is not capacity to hold two large events at Mendakota. She agreed that it was great when the events worked together, but both events have grown since that time. Commissioner Blanks referenced the fi shing derby and asked if there is a timeframe for that. Mr. Colwell replied that event takes place from 4 to 7 p.m. He believed that they just reached capacity for the event filling all 30 spots. Commissioner Meyer asked the age range of those that took pickleball lessons. Mr. Colwell estimated that the age range was between 40 to 60 years of age. Commissioner Meyer asked if those participants would like to see continued ranges of lessons offered. Mr. Colwell stated that he has been talking to the instructors and an idea was brought forward to have a beginner lesson followed by an intermediate lesson. He noted that some participants enjoyed the first session and signed up for the second lesson, kno wing it would be the same curriculum. Commissioner Muller asked if there are a certain number of spots reserved for Mendota Heights residents when camps are offered in conjunction with other communities. Ms. Lawrence acknowledged that many of the camps and program offerings are partnered with other cities. She stated that when registration is open each city had the same number of spots open. She noted that once a certain amount of time has passed, the cities will reevaluate and reallocate the open spo ts to cities with waiting lists. She confirmed that many of the camps filled this summer and staff is planning to reevaluate additional offerings for next year. Page 12 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Commissioner Cotter asked if staff is tracking the increase in programming and revenue. Ms. Lawrence confirmed that she is tracking that information and hopes to provide that information in the annual report. She stated that in her years with the City she has not seen this type of interest in programming. Commissioner Cotter recognized that t his was a goal that seems to be coming to fruition and therefore would be interested in those statistics. 7.c Parks Improvement Update Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence provided an update on parks improvement project progress and balance of the special parks fund. Commissioner Cotter commented that it is nice to see some projects being approved/completed that have been on the list for some time. He stated that he likes seeing the balance of the special parks fund but would also like to see the pending expenses in order to see a more accurate balance. Commissioner Meyer noted that field maintenance at Civic Center was previously discussed and asked if that will be completed this year. Ms. Lawrence stated that staff has been attempting to place all the fields on a rotation for field maintenance. She noted that staff hopes to complete Civic Center this fall but is still waiting to see if that can be done. She stated that if funds are available for the project, it would be done this fall and that field would then be taken offline for the duration of that project. Commissioner Meyer asked if there would be an opportunity to partner with West Saint Paul for field maintenance in order to obtain a cost savings. Ms. Lawrence replied that she believes that West Saint Paul uses their own parks staff for that type of maintenance, while Mendota Heights contracts that work out. She noted that staff could look into that opportunity. Commissioner Cotter commented that perhaps it would be cost effective to contract with West Saint Paul to complete the field maintenance in Mendota Heights. Ms. Lawrence stated that they did research contracting with another community to complete maintenance on the golf course, but ultimately the other cities decided that if the staff had time to contract work out, they probably did not need those staff. Student Representative Hess arrived. 8. New Business 8.a Booth at Park Celebration Open House Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence provided an overview of the different events proposed for the park celebration weekend. Chair Klepperich assumed that most Commission members would attend the events, noting that perhaps a booth space could be made available. He welcomed input from the Commission. Page 13 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Commissioner Blanks believed the purpose of having a booth would be to connect to the community and noted that he would be happy to staff the booth and answer questions of residents. Commissioner Meyer commented that in previous celebration events there were typically two Commission members at a time. Chair Klepperich believed that there were shifts as well, which allows the Commission to split up the time sitting and also be able to mingle wi th the crowd. Commissioner Meyer stated that it would be nice to have the large parks map and noted that people may also be interested in the bike ped plan. Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek agreed that this would be a great venue for public outreach on the bike ped plan. Ms. Lawrence noted that if there were going to be more than three Commission members at the booth at one time, she would need to notice a potential quorum and therefore it would be helpful to know who would be attending. Commissioner Cotter did not believe there would be more than three people at the booth and if it looked like there could be, someone could step away. 8.b Finalize Parks Tour Chair Klepperich stated that the consensus was to hold a parks tour and three potential dates were provided in the packet. He asked the Commission for input, noting that he could be available for any of the three dates. He reviewed the four parks that wi ll be featured on the tour. Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence confirmed that the tour will be scheduled for approximately 5 to 7 p.m. and she will review the park list to ensure they are going in a geographic order. It was the consensus of the Commission to hold the parks tour on August 4 th at 5:00 p.m. 8.c Commission Data Practices and Email Update Assistant City Administrator Kelly Torkelson stated that the City is providing email addresses for Commission members in order to separate per sonal and professional communications to comply with the Data Practices Act. She provided a short presentation on the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act and what the City must do to comply. She noted that the Commissioners must use their City email for all Commission business going forward. 9. Unfinished Business 9.a Community Engagement Outreach Update Commissioner Meyer stated that she has been in contact with the dog park group and will work with Chair Klepperich to schedule that date. Commissioner Muller stated that she reached out to the Mendota District wide PTO representative but did not hear back. She stated that she has reached out to the MHAA President. Page 14 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Commissioner Cotter suggested that he and Commissioner Muller work together on MHAA. Commissioner Blanks stated that he previously made contact and has been reaching back out. He noted that a date in September has been chosen for the PTA group and stated that he would reach out to Commissioners Muller and Smith to potentially work together. He stated that he will reach back out to the rotary group as they were very flexible, noting that he would most likely take a City staff member to that meeting. He noted that he will be reaching back out to the Linden group as well. Commission er Cotter stated that he will reach back out to the CDA building to schedule a date. Chair Klepperich stated that he will not be meeting with the Mendota Heights Foundation at this time, noting that he does not believe that will help the group at this time. 9.b Park and Recreation Strategic Planning Update Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence reviewed the monthly update on the strategic planning calendar. She noted that they have accomplished the goals for 2022. She stated that once the community outreach information is gathered by the Commission, they can discuss that in worksession format to develop additional goals to focus on. Commissioner Meyer stated that she would be interested in the census data as that can help to plan for futur e parks programming. Ms. Lawrence confirmed that data could be presented to the Commission at a future meeting. 9.c Student Representative Recognition Chair Klepperich recognized the contributions of Student Representative Hess. Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence presented the recognition to Ni ko Hess for his role of Student Representative to the Commission, who has been a valued member of the Commission since April 2021 , and has provided an important youth perspective. She noted that a new Student Representative has been appointed and will begin at the August meeting. She thanked Student Representative Hess for his service. Student Representative Hess commented that he has had a great time working with the Commission and he has learned a lot. He stated that he will be traveling to Germany on a scholarship for ten months and will then att end the University of Wisconsin -Madison to study biomedical engineering. 10. Staff Announcements Parks and Recreation Manager Meredith Lawrence shared the following announcements: • The bike ped plan will come forward to the Commission in August to review • Temporary Wentworth Warming House concepts will also come forward to the Commission in August • Other events can be found on the City’s website 11. Student Representative Update Student Representative Hess commented that he has been doing more biking and has noticed more residents biking as well . He noted that some spots on the path around Rogers Lake are rough for biking. Page 15 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 12. Commission Comments and Park Updates Commissioner Cotter • Wished Student Representative Hess well in his endeavors and thanked him for his contributions to the Commission • He will be excited to see a transition to a new warming house at Wentworth Park • It was great to see a ball game at Civic Center and the field improvements will be welcomed • There are a lot of bikers, walkers, and park activity Commissioner Blanks • Expressed appreciation to Student Representative Hess for sharing his thoughts • Mendakota Park has been very busy with baseball • The basketball hoop at Valley Park was quickly repaired by City staff Commissioner Muller • The lacrosse team was practicing at Kensington Park with younger siblings playing at the park • Has enjoyed fishing at Rogers Lake • It is great to see people active in the parks • Awesome ball weekend and it was great to see multiple Commissioners at the field cheering on youth members Commissioner Meyer • Thanks to Student Representative Hess • Marie and Victoria Highlands remain busy • Thanks to City staff for their work on programming • Exciting to have the swing installed at Ivy Chair Klepperich • It appears a tree was removed at Valley View and there were new woodchips installed • Ivy Hills was quiet when he visited but the path to the neighborhood is well underway 13. Adjourn Motion Meyer/Second Blanks to adjourn the meeting at 7:33 PM AYES 5: NAYS 0 Minutes drafted by: Amanda Staple TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc. Page 16 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Request for City Council Action DATE: August 16, 2022 TO: Mayor, City Council, and City Administrator FROM: Ryan Ruzek, P.E., Public Works Director SUBJECT: Resolution 2022-63 & 2022-64 Ordering the Preparation of Feasibility Reports for Victoria Curve Street Improvements and Emerson Avenue Street Improvements INTRODUCTION The Council is asked to approve resolution 2022-63 & 2022-64 Ordering Preparation of Feasibility Reports for Victoria Curve Street Improvements and Emerson Avenue Street Improvements. BACKGROUND The Victoria Curve and Emerson Avenue Street Improvements have been identified in the 2022- 2026 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). These streets currently have failing bituminous surfaces and are in need of repair. DISCUSSION Victoria Curve – This project proposes to reconstruct Victoria Curve from Lexington Avenue to Highway 13. Potential improvements include adding a parking lane in front of city hall and Beth Jacob due to events and athletic uses, extending an off street trail from Hunter Lane to Highway 13, and constructing a retaining wall along Glenhill Road. This project also proposes a reclamation and pavement replacement of Orchard Hill. Emerson Avenue Street Improvements – This project proposes to rehabilitate Emerson Avenue, Ivy Falls Court, Ivy Hill Drive, Laura Court, Laura Street, Maple Park Drive, Sylvandale Court, Sylvandale Court South, and Sylvandale Road. Emerson Avenue and Sylvandale Road has a high level of pedestrian use. A proposed improvement will be further studied but may include on street striping and reduced on street parking. Treatment methods and improvements will be further identified in the feasibility process. The proposed projects are meant to be bid as two separate projects due to the distance between the areas. BUDGET IMPACT The CIP identifies construction costs of $1,325,000 for the Emerson Avenue Project and $1,700,000 for the Victoria Curve Improvements. The costs will be refined during the feasibility 5cPage 17 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council process. The projects are proposed to be funded by special assessments, municipal state aid, municipal bonds, utility funds, and St. Paul Regional Water participation. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that Council adopt the resolutions, authorizing the preparation of feasibility reports for Victoria Curve and Emerson Avenue Street Improvements. ACTION REQUIRED If Council wishes to enact the staff recommendation, it should pass a motion adopting A RESOLUTION ORDERING PREPARATION OF FEASIBILITY REPORT FOR THE VICTORIA CURVE STREET IMPROVEMENTS and A RESOLUTION ORDERING PREPARATION OF FEASIBILITY REPORT FOR THE EMERSON AVENUE STREET IMPROVEMENTS. This action requires a simple majority vote. Page 18 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA RESOLUTION 2022-63 A RESOLUTION ORDERING PREPARATION OF FEASIBILITY REPORT FOR THE VICTORIA CURVE STREET IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT WHEREAS, it is proposed to construct improvements on Victoria Curve (from Lexington Avenue to Highway 13) and Orchard Hill (From Lexington Avenue to cul-de-sac) in Mendota Heights including the construction of reclaimed aggregate base, concrete curb and gutter, bituminous surfacing, storm sewer repair, trail improvements, ADA improvements and appurtenant work; and WHEREAS, this project is identified in the City’s 2022-2026 Capital Improvement Plan; and WHEREAS, it is proposed to assess the benefited property for all or a portion of the cost of the improvements, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 429. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mendota Heights City Council that the proposed improvements be referred to the Public Works Director for study and that he is instructed to report to the Council with all convenience and speed advising the Council in a preliminary way as to whether the proposed improvements are necessary, cost-effective and feasible and as to whether they should best be made as proposed or in connection with other improvements, and the estimated costs for the improvements as recommended. Adopted by the City Council of the City of Mendota Heights this sixteenth day of August, 2022. CITY COUNCIL CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS Stephanie Levine, Mayor ATTEST ___________________________ Christine Lusian, City Clerk Page 19 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA RESOLUTION 2022-64 A RESOLUTION ORDERING PREPARATION OF FEASIBILITY REPORT FOR THE EMERSON AVENUE STREET IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT WHEREAS, it is proposed to construct improvements to Emerson Avenue, Ivy Falls Court, Ivy Hill Drive, Laura Court, Laura Street, Maple Park Drive, Sylvandale Court, Sylvandale Court South, and Sylvandale Road in Mendota Heights including the construction of reclaimed aggregate base, concrete curb and gutter repair, bituminous surfacing, storm sewer repair, ADA improvements and appurtenant work; and WHEREAS, this project is identified in the City’s 2022-2026 Capital Improvement Plan; and WHEREAS, it is proposed to assess the benefited property for all or a portion of the cost of the improvements, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 429. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the Mendota Heights City Council that the proposed improvements be referred to the Public Works Director for study and that he is instructed to report to the Council with all convenience and speed advising the Council in a preliminary way as to whether the proposed improvements are necessary, cost-effective and feasible and as to whether they should best be made as proposed or in connection with other improvements, and the estimated costs for the improvements as recommended. Adopted by the City Council of the City of Mendota Heights this sixteenth day of August, 2022. CITY COUNCIL CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS Stephanie Levine, Mayor ATTEST ___________________________ Christine Lusian, City Clerk Page 20 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council HWY 62D S T 4TH S T LEXINGTON AVEHUNTER LNCENTRE P O I N T E C U R E S T G ST SIBLEY M E M O RI AL H W Y F S T VICTORIA CUR ORCHARD P L C ST3RD ST HWY 5 5 AVANTI DR 2ND ST TWIN CIRCLE DRVICTORIA RD MARIE AVE W CULLIGAN LN HWY 1 3 GLENHILL RDVAIL DR FARO LNDAKOTA DRP RIVATE RD ORCHARD HL MARY A D E L E A V E CENTRE P OINTE BLVD HUNTER CT VERONICA LN ORCHARD CIRBWANA CT WEST CIRCLE CT WINDY RIDGE P LHWY 62HWY 13 HWY 5 5 2ND ST HWY 6 2 This im age ry is c opyrighte d and lic e ns e d by Ne arm ap US Inc , whic h re tains owne rs hip of the im age ry. It is be ing provid e d by Dakota County und e r the te rm s ofthat lic e ns e . Und e r that lic e ns e , Dakota County is allowe d to provid e ac c e s s to the “Offline Copy Ad d -On for Gove rnm e nt”, on whic h this im age s e rvic e s isbas e d , at 6-inc h re s olution, s ix m onths afte r the c apture d ate , provid e d the us e r ac knowle d ge s that the im age ry will be us e d in the ir norm al c ours e of bus ine s sand m us t not be re s old or d is tribute d for the purpos e of d ire c t c om m e rc ial be ne fit or gain. By ac c e s s ing this im age ry, the us e r ac knowle d ge s the s e te rm s andaffirm s c om plianc e . https ://gis im g.c o.d akota.m n.us /m rs id /bas e _ ae rialphotography_ 2020_ s prg/Ne arm ap_ DakotaCounty_ SIGNED.pd f Exhibit A - Street Location Map City ofMe nd otaHe ightsDate : 8/9/2022 P ave m e nt Re c lam ation (Typ.) Trail Re habilitation (Typ.) Trail Cons truc tion Re c lam ation (Typ.) Ad d P arking Lane Re taining Wall Cons t. Page 21 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council DODD RDSIBLEY MEMORIAL HWYSYLVAND A L E R D LAURA STBUT L E R A V E WACHT LER AVE IVY HILL DR DORSET RD EMERSON AVE ST APLES AVE MEDORA RDMEARS AV E SOMERSET RD IVY FALLS AVE COLESHIRE LNWOODRIDGE DRSUNSET LN KNOLLWOOD LNSPRING STHINGHAM C IR MAPLE PARK DR BROOKSIDE LNARCADIA DRLILYDALE RDCLEMENT STCASCADE LN BEE B E A V E CHERRY HILL RD LAURA CT MAPLE PARK CT SYLVAND A L E C T MEDORA CT SYLVANDALE CT S KNOL LWOOD LN EMERSON AVE T h is im ag ery is copyrig h ted and licensed by Nearm ap US Inc, w h ich retains ow nersh ip of th e im ag ery. It is being provid ed by Dak ota County und er th e term s ofth at license. Und er th at license, Dak ota County is allow ed to provid e access to th e “Offline Copy Ad d -On for Governm ent”, on w h ich th is im ag e services isbased , at 6-inch resolution, six m onth s after th e capture d ate, provid ed th e user ack now led g es th at th e im ag ery w ill be used in th eir norm al course of businessand m ust not be resold or d istributed for th e purpose of d irect com m ercial benefit or g ain. By accessing th is im ag ery, th e user ack now led g es th ese term s andaffirm s com pliance. h ttps://g isim g .co.d ak ota.m n.us/m rsid /base_aerialph otog raph y_2020_sprg /Nearm ap_Dak otaCounty_SIGNED.pd f Exhibit A - Street Rehabilitation City ofMend otaHeig h tsDate: 7/18/2022 Pavem ent Reclam ation (T yp.) Page 22 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Request for City Council Action DATE: August 16, 2022 TO: Mayor, City Council, and City Administrator FROM: Ryan Ruzek, P.E., Public Works Director SUBJECT: Sale of Fleet Vehicle INTRODUCTION The City Council is asked to authorize the sale of the 2013 Ford Explorer used by Recreation and Administration. BACKGROUND The 2013 Ford Explorer is at the end of its usable life as a city vehicle. The vehicle is currently in need of maintenance and was deemed surplus by the purchase of a leased 2017 Ford Explorer from the Police department. The city mechanic recommends the sale of the vehicle. BUDGET IMPACT The sale proceeds from the 2013 Ford Explorer will be used to offset the cost to purchase the 2017 Ford Explorer from the Police Department. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that Council approve the sale of the 2013 Ford Explorer. ACTION REQUIRED If the Council concurs, it should, by motion, Adopt Resolution 2022-62 AUTHORIZING THE AUCTION OF A CITY OWNED VEHICLE. This action requires a simple majority vote. 5dPage 23 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA RESOLUTION NO. 2022 - 62 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE AUCTION OF A CITY OWNED VEHICLE WHEREAS, the City of Mendota Heights owns a 2013 Ford Explorer that was obtained through a lease buy out; and WHEREAS, the 2013 Ford Explorer is utilized by city recreation and administration for official use; and WHEREAS, the city has determined the 2013 Ford Explorer is no longer needed for municipal purposes; and WHEREAS, it is the desire of the City Council of the City of Mendota Heights to authorize the auction of the 2013 Ford Explorer. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Mendota Heights authorizes the auction of a 2013 Ford Explorer. Adopted by the City Council of the City of Mendota Heights this sixteenth, day of August, 2022. CITY COUNCIL CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS By_________________________________ Stephanie Levine, Mayor ATTEST: By______________________________ Christine Lusian, City Clerk Page 24 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Request for City Council Action DATE: August 16, 2022 TO: Mayor, City Council, and City Administrator FROM: John Boland, Public Works Superintendent SUBJECT: Approve Purchase Order for Tree Removal INTRODUCTION The City Council is asked to approve a purchase order for the removal of 20 Ash trees infested with the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), 7 willow trees, and a spruce tree. BACKGROUND The city removes diseased, dying and hazard trees from the park system and the road right-of- way when needed. Due to EAB, staff has been inventorying and tracking trees for removal. Depending on the size of the tree, the city contracts removals and stump grinding. These trees are all in various states of decay and a hazard to residents if they lose branches. DISCUSSION Staff has solicited bids for these trees along the road right-of-way at five different areas in the city. The right-of-way trees will be removed, and the stumps ground when in a maintained area. The ground stumps will be cleaned up, filled in with soil, and seeded. Staff received two quotes on this project: SavATree $18,213 Davey Tree $19,250 BUDGET The city has budgeted $50,000 for right-of-way tree removal. Presently, the remaining budget for tree removals is $3,298. This line item for right-of-way tree removals will be over by $14,915. Staff anticipates that other budget items, mainly salt, will be under budget for the remainder of 2022 and that the overall budget will remain within allocated costs. 5ePage 25 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council RECOMENDATION Staff recommends that the Mendota Heights City Council authorize the purchase order for the tree removals to SavATree in the amount of $18,213. ACTION REQUIRED If Council concurs with the staff recommendation, they should pass a motion to authorize a purchase order to SavATree for $18,213. This action requires a simple majority vote. Page 26 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Request for City Council Action DATE: September 16, 2022 TO: Mayor and City Council, City Administrator FROM: Kelly Torkelson, Assistant City Administrator SUBJECT: Authorize the Recruitment for a Communications Coordinator INTRODUCTION The City Council is asked to authorize the recruitment for the communications coordinator position. BACKGROUND Staff went through a recruitment process for the communications coordinator in July and council authorized the hiring of a candidate at the July 19, 2022 City Council meeting, however, the candidate authorized for hire received a full time job offer from another agency and is not going to be taking on the role. Staff seek approval from the city council to authorize staff to begin recruitment for the communications coordinator position. The Communications Coordinator is a part-time 20 hour per week position. The communications coordinator position is a pay grade 8 on the city’s compensation scale. Due to workload needs and to support recruitment efforts, staff would like to advertise this as a 24-hour per week position and advertise the position as $30.09-$33.36 per hour, which is steps 1-4 (midpoint) of the pay scale. BUDGET IMPACT This position is included in the 2022 budget. The additional four hours per week for the remaining months of August through December can be covered by the current budget. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the City Council accept the resignation of Sharon Deziel and authorize the recruitment of the communications coordinator position as a part-time position for 24 hours a week with a hiring pay range of $30.09-$33.36 an hour. ACTION REQUIRED If the Council concurs, it should authorize the posting of the communications coordinator position as a part-time 24 hours a week position with a hiring pay range of $30.09-$33.36 an hour. 5fPage 27 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council This page intentionally left blank. Page 28 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Request for City Council Action DATE: August 16, 2022 TO: Mayor, City Council, and City Administrator FROM: Dave Dreelan, Fire Chief SUBJECT: Resignation of Firefighters INTRODUCTION The City Council is asked to accept the resignations of Firefighter Mike Winters and Captain Dan Willems from the Mendota Heights Fire Department. BACKGROUND Firefighter Mike Winters has submitted his resignation from the Mendota Heights Fire Department effective August 1. Mike has been a Mendota Heights Firefighter for six years. Captain Dan Willems has submitted his resignation from the Mendota Heights Fire Department effective August 31. Dan has been a Mendota Heights Firefighter for nearly 11 years. BUDGET IMPACT N/A ACTION RECOMMENDED Staff recommends that the Mendota Heights City Council accept the resignations of Firefighter Mike Winters and Captain Dan Willems from the Mendota Heights Fire Department. ACTION REQUESTED If the Council concurs, it should, by motion, accept the resignations of Firefighter Mike Winters and Captain Dan Willems from the Mendota Heights Fire Department 5gPage 29 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council This page intentionally left blank. Page 30 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Request for City Council Action DATE: August 16, 2022 TO: Mayor, City Council and City Administrator FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Parks and Recreation Manager SUBJECT: Acknowledge the June Par 3 Financial Report INTRODUCTION The City Council is asked to acknowledge the June Par 3 Financial Report. BACKGROUND Attached is the June Par 3 Financial Report. In the month of June, the course had a total of 2,839 rounds of golf played. In June, the Par 3 had a total of $39,511 for monthly revenue totals. The 2022 year-to-date revenue total including June is $133,346. The course’s June expenditures totaled $24,485. The year-to-date expenditure total is $87,118. As of now the course is showing a $46,228 operating surplus. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the Mendota Heights City Council acknowledge the June Par 3 Financial Report. ACTION REQUIRED If the Council concurs, it should, by motion acknowledge the June Par 3 Financial Report. 5hPage 31 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council MONTHLY EXPENDITURE REPORT JUNE 2022 MENDOTA HEIGHTS PAR 3 BUDGET TO ACTUAL REPORT JUNE 2022 (50.00% OF YEAR) June REVENUES June YTD YTD YTD BUDGET 2022 2022 %2021 GREENS, LEAGUE & TOURN FEES $110,000 $31,298 $71,446 64.95%$75,351 RECREATION PROGRAMS $40,000 $1,493 $49,925 124.81%$46,229 CONCESSIONS $19,000 $6,645 $11,875 62.50%$8,576 SUNDRY REVENUE $0 $75 $100 0.00%$1,120 INTEREST $450 $0 $0 0.00%$0 INSURANCE CLAIM $0 $0 $0 0.00%$0 PAR 3 FUND REVENUE TOTAL $169,450 $39,511 $133,346 78.69%$131,276 EXPENDITURES June YTD YTD YTD BUDGET 2022 2022 %2021 CLUBHOUSE SALARIES $34,300 $5,207 $12,603 36.74%$14,723 ADMINISTRATIVE SALARIES $25,807 $1,115 $7,596 29.44%$11,064 FICA/PERA $10,768 $1,097 $3,228 29.98%$3,902 MEDICAL INSURANCE $6,851 $571 $3,425 50.00%$3,326 U/E & W/C INSURANCE $3,100 $0 $3,103 100.09%$3,217 RENTALS $4,750 $1,598 $3,041 64.01%$2,329 UTILITIES $12,555 $1,321 $5,698 45.38%$5,341 PROFESSIONAL FEES - AUDIT $2,900 $1,522 $1,522 52.49%$1,941 PROF FEES - CONSULTING FEES $1,100 $0 $0 0.00%$0 PROF FEES - GROUNDS MGMT $7,050 $0 $0 0.00%$0 PROF FEES - GROUNDS WAGES $22,000 $3,077 $6,133 27.88%$7,951 PROF FEES - TREE MAINTENANCE $1,500 $2,500 $5,300 0.00%$0 ADVERTISING/NEWSLETTER $0 $0 $0 0.00%$0 LIABILITY/AUTO INSURANCE $4,800 $0 $3,885 80.94%$3,997 OPERATING COSTS/SUPPLIES $7,850 $1,332 $3,785 48.21%$5,325 FUEL $1,750 $540 $1,052 60.10%$675 REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE $47,500 $3,221 $20,714 43.61%$25,765 SUNDRY/DUES/MILEAGE/CLOTHING $5,500 $180 $2,382 43.31%$7,096 CONTINGENCY $0 $0 $0 0.00%$0 ONLINE REG & CREDIT CARD FEES $7,475 $1,203 $3,650 48.83%$2,159 PAR 3 EXPENDITURES TOTAL $207,556 $24,485 $87,118 41.97%$98,811 8/3/2022 Page 32 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Request for City Council Action DATE: August 16, 2022 TO: Mayor, City Council, and City Administrator FROM: Christine Lusian, City Clerk SUBJECT: Massage Therapist License INTRODUCTION The City Council is asked to approve a new massage therapist license. BACKGROUND Massage therapist applicant, Sarah Nelson, has completed application requirements and paid the associated license fees and has secured employment at licensed massage establishment Hush Therapeutic Massage. RECOMMENDATION City staff recommends the Council approve a massage therapist license for Sarah Nelson effective through June 30, 2023. 5iPage 33 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council This page intentionally left blank. Page 34 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Request for City Council Action DATE: August 16, 2022 TO: Mayor Levine and City Council; City Administrator Jacobson FROM: Tim Benetti, Community Development Director SUBJECT: Resolution No. 2022-65 Approving an Administrative MRCCA Permit to 1065 Douglas Road [Planning Case No. 2022-18] INTRODUCTION Jessica & Zachary Shaheen are requesting approval of an Administrative Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area (MRCCA) Permit for their property, located at 1065 Douglas Road. The subject property is located in the R-1 One Family Residential zoning district, and within the MRCCA Overlay District. DESCRIPTION OF REQUEST The Shaheen’s are proposing to replace and reconstruct a new deck, install a new circular fire-pit/patio in the rear yard, a new flagstone walkway (from back of home to the patio), and installing new landscape plantings. The rear yard currently contains a three-tiered row of boulder-rock retaining walls along the westerly boundary, and a flat/level open yard space at the bottom of the wall system and behind the dwelling. These walls will not be affected by any of the new deck, patio or landscaping project work. The new fire-pit/patio and flagstone walkway will be placed on the open, leveled area of the rear yard located directly behind the dwelling. The owners plan to remove their existing deck and replace it with a new deck in virtually the same location, but will include a new 5.5-ft. wide bridge-deck, leading from the main deck space over to the second tier/rock wall level, which will provide pedestrian access to this upper side yard area. The subject property is situated in the SR-Separated by River district within the city’s MRCCA Overlay District. The property is does not have any bluffs, bluff impact zones (BIZ) or steep slopes; nor any significant vegetation stands or native plant communities – either on or adjacent to the property (refer to MRCCA Map – 1065 Douglas Road – attached hereto). ANALYSIS Pursuant to City Code Section 12-3-12, no building permit, zoning approval, or subdivision approval shall be issued for any action or development located in an area covered by this chapter until a site plan has been prepared and approved in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. Subpart D. of this section also includes an allowance for “Minor Developments”, which include minor changes involving a single-family dwelling that can be approved directly by the City Council without Planning Commission review or recommendation, and without a public hearing, but only if the minor project and plans conform to the general standards of this section. All administrative approved projects must meet or comply with the following conditions (with Staff comments noted afterwards): 1.No part of the subject property shall have slopes of greater than eighteen percent (18%). 5jPage 35 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Staff Comments: All of the new deck, patio and walkway work is being done on the existing yard grades or the lower, level section of the rear yard space, with no expected grade changes in either area. The lower/level yard space area is estimated to have a slope gradient of approx. 0.2% - which is very flat and manageable. There are no slopes greater than 18% in the proposed project work areas. Since there are no bluffs or bluff impact zones on this property, the proposed grades at or near 18% are not subject to any additional MRCCA permitting rules or standards or approvals. 2. No part of the project shall impact, disturb or be situated in a bluff line setback area as defined by this chapter, whether on the same parcel or on an abutting parcel of land. Staff Comments: Although the subject property is situated in the MRCCA overlay district, there are no bluffs; bluff impact zones (BIZ’s); or any Primary Conservation Areas (PCA’s – such as Significant Existing Vegetative Stands or Native Plant Commodities), either on or adjunct to the subject property. 3. The proposed project shall not expand the enclosed area of the principal or accessory structures by more than two hundred (200) square feet. Staff Comments: The existing deck is being replaced with a new deck in virtually the same place as the original deck, and no enclosed expansion is taking place. There are no additions or expansions planned to the principal structure (i.e. the dwelling). 4. The proposed project shall not increase the height of any existing structure. Staff Comments: The existing deck structure height will be the same height or elevation as the existing deck; and there are no plans to change (increase) the height of the principal structure. 5. The proposed project shall be in compliance with all other requirements of this Chapter, and any other applicable regulations. Staff Comment: The proposed project and all related construction work to complete the deck, fire- pit/patio and walkway shall be in compliance with all other requirements of this chapter, and any other applicable regulations, including the City’s Land Disturbance Guidelines. 6. The proposed project shall not result in significant changes to the existing finished grade. Staff Comment: The project does not propose to change, add or modify any of the finished grades that exist on the subject property. There should be no impacts to any drainage ways or existing drainage patterns on or around the subject property. These new grade changes have been determined by city staff to be considered not significant on this property, or will cause any negative impacts to neighboring properties or affect the overall use and enjoyment of the subject property. 7. The proposed project areas shall include native vegetation. Staff Comments: The landscape plan originally contained note-box that included a number of new/various plantings - identified as “Plants by Homeowner”. Per the landscape contractor, this planting list was originally offered by the homeowners last year (when originally preparing the plan), but is now excluded. Instead, the owners are keeping quick fire hydrangea, butterfly milkweed, coreopsis, and beebalm, and also incorporating butterfly bush and a few other pollinator friendly perennials. Most of tiered hill system will be left alone, which is covered with bush honeysuckle, and any open spots will be planted with new native/pollinators. The homeowners have agreed to refer to and use plantings from the city’s pollinator friendly and native plantings list (provided by city staff) when choosing new plantings. The small raised wooden/boxed vegetable/herb garden will also remain. Page 36 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council INTERAGENCY REVIEW The MRCCA Permit application and site/grading plans for this property were submitted to the Department of Natural Resources and National Park Service for review and comment on July 28, 2022, and responses were received from both agencies indicating no concerns, comments or objections to the proposed improvements; and agreed this project can be considered a Minor Development or approved under the Administrative MRCCA Permit process, as allowed by the city’s MRCCA Ordinance. RECOMMENDATION Based on staff’s interpretation of the intent of the Minor Development provisions of Title 12-3-1, the scope of the project does not require Planning Commission recommendation and a public hearing; and therefore may be given full consideration and approval by the City Council. Since there is no impacts to the Mississippi River Corridor’s bluff areas, bluff impact zone, or PCA’s in this district, along with very little to no impacts on the surrounding properties, staff recommends the City Council approve this Administrative MRCCA Permit to Jessica & Zachary Shaheen of 1065 Douglas Road, with the findings-of fact and conditions as noted in the attached resolution. ACTION REQUIRED Adopt RESOLUTION NO. 2022-65 APPROVING AN ADMINISTRATIVE MISSISSIPPI RIVER CORRIDOR CRITICAL AREA PERMIT FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1065 DOUGLAS ROAD. This action requires a simple majority vote. Attachments 1) Resolution No. 2022-65 (DRAFT) 2) MRCCA Map – 1065 Douglas Road 3) Survey/Site Plan – 1065 Douglas Road 4) Deck Plans – 1065 Douglas Road 5) Landscape Plan – 1065 Douglas Road Page 37 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council SITE PICS – 1065 DOUGLAS ROAD VIEW OF TIERED WALL SYSTEM – WITH HERB GARDEN BOX VIEW OF OLD DECK/TIERED WALL (FROM LOWER REAR YARD AREA) Page 38 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council VIEW OF BACK YARD – LOOKING DOWN TOWARDS LOWER REAR YARD VIEW OF OLD FIRE-PIT (NEW FIRE PIT TO BE LOCATED NE’LY OF THIS AREA- NEAR BACK GARDEN) Page 39 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council VIEW LOOKING BACK TOWARDS HOUSE/LOWER REAR YARD AREA REAR YARD GARDEN AREA Page 40 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council VIEWS OF SIDE YARD/REAR YARD AREAS (BEEHIVE DRAINAGE INTAKE UNDISTURBED) Page 41 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 8/10/22, 4:07 PM Dakota County GIS gis.co.dakota.mn.us/DCGIS/1/1 1065 DOUGLAS ROAD Disclaimer: Map and parcel data are believed to be accurate, but accuracy is not guaranteed. This is not a legal document and should not be substituted for a title search,appraisal, survey, or for zoning verification. Map Scale 1 inch = 200 feet 8/10/2022 Page 42 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 1680 1745 1665 1670 1765 1761 1751 17641768 1754 1752 1666 1680 1760 1661 1056 1673 1059 1049 1650 1065 1104 1039 1081 1095 10431049108310891077 104510751069 1053106510571071 1747 1750 1736 1742 1758 1750 1655 1751 1055 10441046 1748 1753 1050 1051 10681080 1054 1094 1060 10541088 1746 1041 1755 1118 11171115 111611261128 11251127 1041 1050 177517751775 17751775 1775 1775 1044 1775 1670 1775 1775 1775 1038 1034 1673 1666 1646 LEXINGTON AVEDOUGLAS R D OVER L O O K R D JAMES R DSIBLEY MEMOR IAL H WY PR I V A T E R O A D KINGSLEY CIR N DOUGLAS CTMAYFIELD HEIGHTS LN PR I V A T E R O A D Th is imag e ry is copyrig h te d and lice nse d by Ne armap US Inc, wh ichre tains owne rsh ip of th e imag e ry. It is be ing provide d by Dakota Cou ntyu nde r th e te rms of th at lice nse . Unde r th at lice nse , Dakota Cou nty isallowe d to provide acce ss to th e “Offline Copy Add-On for Gove rnme nt”,on wh ich th is imag e se rvice s is base d, at 6-inch re solu tion, six month safte r th e captu re date , provide d th e u se r acknowle dg e s th at th e imag e rywill be u se d in th e ir normal cou rse of bu sine ss and mu st not be re sold or 1065 DOUGLAS ROADMENDOTA HEIGHTS, MNMRCCA MAP City ofMe ndotaHe ig h ts 0 190 SCALE IN FEET Legend MRCCA Districts CA-R OS CA-R N CA-SR CA-R TC Bluff Elements 18% and 75 De g re e Blu ffs 18% ove r 25 ft Blu ffs 20 ft blu ff bu ffe r 75 De g re e Blu ffs Primary Conservation Areas Sig nificant Ve g . Stand Native Plant Commu nitie s MR CCA Bou ndary Mu nicipal Bou ndary Date : 7/28/2022 Page 43 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Page 44 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Page 45 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Page 46 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA RESOLUTION 2022-65 RESOLUTION APPROVING AN ADMINISTRATIVE / MINOR DEVELOPMENT MISSISSIPPI RIVER CORRIDOR CRITICAL AREA (MRCCA) PERMIT FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1065 DOUGLAS ROAD (PLANNING CASE NO. 2022-18) WHEREAS, Jessica and Zachary Shaheen (the “Applicant”) applied for an Administrative-Minor Development Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area (MRCCA) Permit in order to remove and reconstruct a deck, install a new fire-pit patio, flagstone walkway, and new landscaping materials, as proposed under Planning Application Case No. 2022-18, and for the property located at 1065 Douglas Road, legally described in attached Exhibit A (the “Subject Property”); and WHEREAS, the Subject Property is located within the Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area Overlay District of the City of Mendota Heights, and the proposed project qualifies as a Minor Development under Title 12-3-12, Subpart D of the City Code provisions for those properties situated in the recognized MRCCA District; and WHEREAS, the proposed project is compliant with the required conditions for exemption from Planning Commission review and a public hearing, and can be considered and acted on directly by the City Council; and NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Mendota Heights City Council that the Administrative/Minor Development MRCCA Permit request as proposed under Planning Case No. 2022-18 and for 1065 Douglas Road can be approved based on the following finding-of-facts: A) the proposed project and improvements on the subject property pose no threat to the health, safety and welfare of the general public; nor causes any negative impacts upon the MRCCA district, adjacent bluffs, bluff impact zones (BIZ’s), Primary Conservation Areas (PCA’s) or surrounding properties; B) the proposed project will not impact or change any major grades or drainage ways on the subject property; C) the proposed project will be done in accordance with all requirements of the City’s Land Disturbance Guidelines, and D) the proposed project meets the general purpose and intent of the Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area Overlay District and City Code. Page 47 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the Mendota Heights City Council that the Administrative/Minor Development MRCCA Permit requested as proposed under Planning Case No. 2022-04 and for 1065 Douglas Road is hereby approved with the following conditions of approval: 1. A building permit for the deck must be reviewed, approved and issued by the city’s building department prior to start of any new work on said structure. 2. Full erosion and sedimentation measures will be put in place prior to and during construction work activities. 3. All disturbed areas impacted by the new construction or installation work associated with any improvements shall be repaired and restored in a timely and expedited manner. 4. All grading and construction activity will be in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations and codes, as well as in compliance with the City’s Land Disturbance Guidance Document. 5. All work on site will only be performed between the hours of 7:00 AM and 8:00 PM Monday through Friday; 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM weekends. Adopted by the City Council of the City of Mendota Heights this 16th day of August, 2022. CITY COUNCIL CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS ________________________________ Stephanie Levine, Mayor ATTEST: ________________________________ Christine Lusian, City Clerk Drafted by: City of Mendota Heights 1101 Victoria Curve Mendota Heights, MN 55118 Page 48 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council EXHIBIT A ADDRESS: 1065 Douglas Road, Mendota Heights, Minnesota 55118 PID: 27-76402-03-041 LEGAL DESCRIPTION: LOT 4, BLOCK 3, TILSEN’S HIGHLAND HEIGHTS PLAT 3, DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA [Torrens Property: Certificate No. 178483, dated 06/17/2020] Page 49 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council This page intentionally left blank. Page 50 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 8/5/2022 Mendota Heights Building Activity Report Mike Andrejka, Building Official July 1, 2022 thru July 31, 2022 January 1, 2022 thru July 31, 2022 January 1, 2021 thru July 31, 2021 January 1, 2020 thru July 31, 2020 Building Permit No.Valuation Fee Collected Building Permit No.Valuation Fee Collected Building Permit No.Valuation Fee Collected Building Permit No.Valuation Fee Collected SFD 1 1,059,600.00$ $10,222.00 SFD 7 5,977,840.00$ $60,031.78 SFD 9 6,206,010.00$ $65,440.26 SFD 4 2,109,865.00$ 23,557.06$ Apartment 0 -$ $0.00 Apartment 0 -$ $0.00 Apartment 0 -$ $0.00 Apartment 0 -$ -$ Townhouse 0 -$ $0.00 Townhouse 0 -$ $0.00 Townhouse 2 1,000,000.00$ $8,641.88 Townhouse 0 -$ -$ Condo 0 -$ $0.00 Condo 0 -$ $0.00 Condo 0 -$ $0.00 Condo 0 -$ -$ Misc 78 1,603,980.20$ 19,603.00$ Misc 354 21,901,402.22$ 202,707.94$ Misc 388 15,791,401.20$ 165,150.19$ Misc 288 4,988,778.26$ 62,301.18$ Commercial 3 479,000.00$ $6,266.29 Commercial 46 5,351,405.12$ $61,320.58 Commercial 40 5,373,990.35$ $53,501.74 Commercial 28 1,388,050.00$ 14,830.94$ Sub Total 82 3,142,580.20$ 36,091.29$ Sub Total 407 33,230,647.34$ 324,060.30$ Sub Total 439 28,371,401.55$ 292,734.07$ Sub Total 320 8,486,693.26$ 100,689.18$ Trade Permit No.Valuation Fee Collected Trade Permit No.Valuation Fee Collected Trade Permit No.Valuation Fee Collected Trade Permit No.Valuation Fee Collected Plumbing 15 $2,113.52 Plumbing 142 $15,197.51 Plumbing 143 $14,220.92 Plumbing 112 9,886.20$ Water 0 $0.00 Water 0 $0.00 Water 0 $0.00 Water 0 -$ Sewer 5 $375.00 Sewer 19 $1,425.00 Sewer 17 $1,275.00 Sewer 11 825.00$ Mechanical 34 $3,778.25 Mechanical 203 397.00$ $27,002.86 Mechanical 254 $28,264.78 Mechanical 177 16,365.87$ Sub Total 54 6,266.77$ Sub Total 364 43,625.37$ Sub Total 414 $43,760.70 Sub Total 300 27,077.07$ License No.Valuation Fee Collected Licenses No.Valuation Fee Collected Licenses No.Valuation Fee Collected Licenses No.Valuation Fee Collected Contractor 0 $0.00 Contractor 0 $0.00 Contractor 0 $0.00 Contractor 0 -$ Total 136 3,142,580.20$ 42,358.06$ Total 771 33,230,647.34$ 367,685.67$ Total 853 28,371,401.55$ 336,494.77$ Total 620 8,486,693.26$ 127,766.25$ NOTE: All fee amounts exclude SAC, WAC and State Surcharge. Amounts shown will reflect only permit, plan review fee and valuation totals 5kPage 51 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council This page intentionally left blank. Page 52 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 1101 Victoria Curve I Mendota Heights, MN 55118 651.452.1850 phone I 651.452.8940 fax www.mendota-heights.com ,� CITY OF m 1 MENDOTA HEIGHTS MEETING DATE: TO: FROM: SUBJECT: BACKGROUND Significant Claims Request for City Council Action August 16, 2022 Mayor, City Council and City Administrator Kristen Schabacker, Finance Director � Claims List Summary Fleet & Surplus Services -2017 Ford Explorer Fleet & Surplus Services -2017 Ford Explorer Bituminous Roadways -Wentworth Parking Lot/Trails -Centre Point Street C & H Sport Surfaces -Friendly Hills Tennis Cami Resurfacing CivicPlus -Website Redesign Dakota County Financial Services -RMS/CJN Costs Lake Improvement Consulting -Rogers Lake Treatment LOGIS -IT Services MTI Distributing -Par 3 Aerator Motorola -Fire Radios SPR WS -Utilities Manual Checks Total System Checks Total Total for the list of claims for the August 16, 2022 city council meeting RECOMMENDATION $ 15,800.00 $ 14,500.00 $ 586,334.14 $ 12,995.00 $ 33,444.69 $ 40,611.12 $ 4,250.00 $ 15,956.64 $ 26,271.45 $ 41,393.25 $ 9,944.34 $ 34,990.00 $ 889,071.17 $ 924,061.17 Staff recommends that the Mendota Heights City Council approve the list of claims for August 16, 2022. 5lPage 53 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Page 54 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Page 55 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Page 56 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Page 57 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Page 58 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Page 59 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Page 60 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Page 61 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Page 62 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Page 63 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Page 64 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Request for City Council Action DATE: August 16, 2022 TO: Mayor, City Council, and City Administrator FROM: Ryan Ruzek, P.E., Public Works Director SUBJECT: Resolution 2022-61 Discussing the Regional Roadway System Visioning Study INTRODUCTION The City Council will receive a presentation on the Dakota County Regional Roadway System Visioning Study and consider approval of Resolution 2022-61. BACKGROUND The Regional Roadway System Visioning Study is a joint planning effort lead by the Cities of Eagan, Inver Grove Heights, Mendota Heights and Sunfish Lake, Dakota County, and the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT), with participation of the Metropolitan Council and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). The overall goal of the study is to develop a long‐term roadway system vision that is supported by all jurisdictions and balances land use and transportation improvements for the study area. Significant growth is expected within the study area over the next 20 years and beyond, based on current comprehensive plans. In addition, growth beyond the immediate study area will also contribute to area roadway needs. If the transportation system remains as it is today and this growth occurs, significant congestion and safety issues are anticipated to occur on key arterials. In addition, cut‐through traffic will likely increase on residential collector streets to avoid these problem areas. A coordinated plan is necessary to handle future growth and development, balance impacts and provide an overall transportation system that supports regional as well as local transportation needs. DISCUSSION The current Regional Roadway System Visioning Study is an update to the 2010 Study under the same name. Significant development has occurred in Eagan and Inver Grove Heights since the 2010 Regional Roadway System Visioning Study was completed, in many cases with less density and lower traffic generation. The 2040 Comprehensive Plans for the cities of Eagan and Inver Grove Heights included fewer households and jobs in the study area compared to the cities’ 2030 Comprehensive Plans. 9aPage 65 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council BUDGET IMPACT At this time there is no impact to the city budget. Improvements along State Highways and County Roads would be addressed through Joint Powers Agreements. RECOMMENDATION I recommend that the Council review the attached resolution and adopt or amend as the Council chooses. ACTION REQUIRED If Council desires to implement the Staff recommendation, pass a motion adopting Resolution 2022-61, “A RESOLUTION DISCUSSING THE REGIONAL ROADWAY SYSTEM VISIONING STUDY UPDATE,” by a simple majority vote. Page 66 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA RESOLUTION 2022 - 61 RESOLUTION DISCUSSING THE REGIONAL ROADWAY SYSTEM VISIONING STUDY UPDATE WHEREAS, Dakota County partnered with the Minnesota Department of Transportation, the Metropolitan Council, the Federal Highway Administration, the City of Eagan, the City of Inver Grove Heights, the City of Mendota Heights, and the City of Sunfish Lake to conduct a transportation study in northern Dakota County with the goal of developing a long-term roadway system vision that is supported by all jurisdictions and balances land use and transportation improvements for the study area based on projected growth in Eagan and Inver Grove Heights; and WHEREAS, the City of Mendota Heights has participated in the original study in 2010 and the update to the study in 2022 with staff representatives, elected officials and interested residents; and WHEREAS, the City of Mendota Heights has continually stated its objection to an interchange at Delaware Avenue and I-494 and expressed concerns about related issues; and WHEREAS, significant development has occurred in Eagan and Inver Grove Heights since the 2010 Regional Roadway System Visioning Study was completed, in many cases with less density and lower traffic generation; and WHEREAS, the 2040 Comprehensive Plans for the cities of Eagan and Inver Grove Heights included fewer households and jobs in the study area compared to the cities’ 2030 Comprehensive Plans; and WHEREAS, the City of Mendota Heights fully supports the need to undertake planning in order to prepare for and respond to future growth. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the City of Mendota Heights offers the following comments to Dakota County's draft recommendations on the Regional Roadway System Visioning Study: 1. Supports the recommendation of a future interchange being placed at Alternate E, approximately one mile east of the current Delaware Avenue interchange. Any potential future interchange at Delaware Avenue will not be supported by the City of Mendota Heights. 2. Supports the addition of needed improvements to the Trunk Highway 62 intersection with Trunk Highway 149 (Dodd Road) and County Road 63 (Delaware Avenue) in Addition to spot improvements on County Road 63 (Delaware Avenue) between I- 494 and Trunk Highway 62. Page 67 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City of Mendota Heights intends to stay fully engaged with this issue in the future to ensure that any plans changes do not negatively impact the city and its residents. Mendota Heights has enjoyed a positive relationship with the neighboring cities and the county and believes it is important to be a part of the decision- making process. The transparency in government decision making that we have experienced with the county and the visioning study is important to Mendota Heights now and in the future. Adopted by the City Council of the City of Mendota Heights this sixteenth day of August, 2022. CITY COUNCIL CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS By:______________________________________ Stephanie Levine, Mayor ATTEST: _______________________________ Christine Lusian, City Clerk Page 68 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Page 69 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 2 Table of Contents Introduction ....................................................................................................................................................... 3 Study Purpose ............................................................................................................................................... 4 Study Process ................................................................................................................................................ 4 Land Use ........................................................................................................................................................... 6 Beyond 2040 .............................................................................................................................................. 6 Transportation Conditions .................................................................................................................................. 8 Transportation Needs ..................................................................................................................................... 8 Traffic Capacity........................................................................................................................................... 8 Safety ....................................................................................................................................................... 11 Roadway Connectivity .............................................................................................................................. 13 Transportation Impacts................................................................................................................................. 16 Roadway Expansion ................................................................................................................................. 16 Environmental Resources ......................................................................................................................... 17 Development and Evaluation of Transportation Improvements ......................................................................... 20 Public Input ..................................................................................................................................................... 24 Open House #1 ............................................................................................................................................ 24 Open house #2 ............................................................................................................................................ 24 Recommendations ........................................................................................................................................... 26 Roadway Improvements ............................................................................................................................... 26 Other Recommendations ............................................................................................................................. 31 Implementation ................................................................................................................................................ 33 Appendix: City Council Resolutions.................................................................................................................. 34 Page 70 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 3 Introduction The Regional Roadway System Visioning Study (RRSVS) Update was a joint planning effort by Dakota County, the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT), and the cities of Eagan, Inver Grove Heights, Mendota Heights, and Sunfish Lake. The recommendations from the RRSVS Update are intended to guide the planning and implementation of transportation improvements within the study area over the next 20 years. Northeast Eagan and northwest Inver Grove Heights represent one of the largest remaining undeveloped areas along the I-494/I-694 corridor in the Twin Cities. Significant growth is anticipated in the next 20 years, and a unified transportation vision is needed to support development and guide future efforts of the cities, county, and MnDOT to plan, fund, and implement transportation improvements. The study area includes the undeveloped areas in Eagan and Inver Grove Heights as well as the fully developed communities in Mendota Heights and Sunfish Lake, shown in Figure 1. The figure also shows that the most intense development is anticipated in the area bounded by I-494 to the north, Trunk Highway (TH) 3 (Robert Trail) to the east, TH 55 (Courthouse Boulevard) to the south, and TH 149 (Dodd Road) to the west. Figure 1. RRSVS Update Study Area Page 71 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 4 STUDY PURPOSE The original RRSVS was completed in 2010 and contained 16 recommendations that were based on technical analysis, agency input, and public feedback. An update to the roadway vision was undertaken to assess current transportation conditions and current land use plans in the study area, including: ⚫ Significant development that has occurred in Eagan and Inver Grove Heights since the 2010 RRSVS was completed. In many cases, the development that has occurred is less dense and generates less traffic than was anticipated in the 2010 study. ⚫ Completion of the 2040 Comprehensive Plans in the cities of Eagan, Inver Grove Heights, Mendota Heights, and Sunfish Lake. The land use plans in the Eagan and Inver Grove Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plans included fewer households and jobs in the study area compared to the cities’ 2030 Comprehensive Plans. ⚫ Traffic capacity and safety conditions that have changed since 2010. ⚫ Transportation improvements identified in the 2010 RRSVS that have been completed or are under construction, including: reconstruction of the TH 55/County Road (CR) 28 (Yankee Doodle Road/Argenta Trail) intersection; expansion of CR 26 (Lone Oak Road/70th Street W) to four lanes between TH 55 (Courthouse Boulevard) and TH 3 (Robert Trail); reconstruction and realignment of CR 63 (Argenta Trail) between CR 28 (Amana Trail) and I-494; and the construction of 65th Street from TH 3 (Robert Trail) to CR 63 (Argenta Trail). ⚫ Development of the Dakota County 2040 travel demand forecast model, which indicated that the year 2040 daily traffic projections are generally similar to or lower than the previously published 2030 daily traffic volumes. The Dakota County travel demand model reflects county and city 2040 comprehensive plans. STUDY PROCESS The RRSVS Update was completed through a process of collecting and analyzing current data, with input provided by the study agencies and the public. The process involved four major steps, as described in the following bullets. ⚫ Data Collection: ◼ Roadway and intersection traffic volumes ◼ Planned roadway improvements ◼ Land use plans in city comprehensive plans ◼ New developments ◼ Forecast traffic growth ◼ Public and agency input on current conditions ⚫ Scenario Modeling and Analysis: ◼ Evaluation of each technical area to identify transportation needs and constraints Page 72 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 5 ⚫ Develop and Evaluate Planning-Level Transportation Alternatives: ◼ Develop and evaluate potential transportation improvements, including 2010 RRSVS recommendations and potential new improvements ◼ Public and agency input on draft recommendations ⚫ Adoption of Final Recommendations: ◼ To demonstrate concurrence with the study recommendations, the study findings are intended to be adopted by the city councils in Eagan, Inver Grove Heights, Mendota Heights, and Sunfish Lake and by the Dakota County Board. The following sections of this report provide more information on the data, analysis, and recommendations of the RRSVS Update. Page 73 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 6 Land Use The development assumptions used in the RRSVS Update are based on the total population and employment forecasts for each city, which are established by the Metropolitan Council, and the location-specific land uses and intensities shown in the cities’ 2040 Comprehensive Plans. The 2018 (existing) and 2040 total development in the cities of Eagan, Inver Grove Heights, Mendota Heights, and Sunfish Lake are summarized in Table 1. Development in other communities such as Rosemount and Farmington are included in the traffic forecasts discussed later in this report and the land uses assumptions in these communities match the Dakota County 2040 Transportation Plan. Table 1. Eagan, Inver Grove Heights, Mendota Heights and Sunfish Lake Forecast Growth Year 2018 Year 2040 Population (number of residents) Households (number of households) Employment (number of jobs) Population (number of residents) Households (number of households) Employment (number of jobs) Eagan 68,363 27,147 59,600 74,300 30,850 70,000 Inver Grove Heights 35,238 14,196 10,303 46,700 19,800 14,000 Mendota Heights 11,420 4,594 11,279 12,000 5,000 13,700 Sunfish Lake 526 185 3 490 210 10 Source: Metropolitan Council, Dakota County 2040 Transportation Plan, and City of Eagan, City of Inver Grove Heights, City of Mendota Heights, and City of Sunfish Lake 2040 Comprehensive Plans The Inver Grove Heights 2040 Comprehensive Plan also identified specific land use changes in northwest part of the city (the RRSVS Update study area) compared to the 2030 Comprehensive Plan. The changes were largely a result of market demand for certain land uses types, but also were based on the city’s more detailed understanding of site conditions and constraints. The 2040 land use plan in northwest Inver Grove Heights generally reflects a shift towards lower density development and land use types that would be expected to generate traffic at lower rates, such as changes from commercial or industrial land use to residential land use. Beyond 2040 Beyond Year 2040 development assumptions were established to analyze the full build-out anticipated in northeast Eagan and northwest Inver Grove Heights. Development for Beyond 2040 conditions was based on the remaining developable area, allocation of additional development to those areas based on zoning definitions in each city’s comprehensive plan, and input from Eagan and Inver Grove Heights city staff. The summary chart in Figure 2 and the bullets that follow summarize the key aspects of the Beyond 2040 land use. Page 74 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 7 Figure 2. RRSVS Study Area Household and Employment Forecasts Eagan ⚫ Residential development in the Viking Lakes area will be predominantly in the southern portion of the 200-acre site. An Alternative Urban Areawide Review (AUAR) was prepared for the Vikings Lake area in 2016 and updated in 20211. ⚫ Demand for office space remains low. Employment growth in the areas zoned for commercial/industrial would likely be lower traffic generating uses like warehouse and light industrial rather than higher- density office buildings. ⚫ Growth of traditional shopping land uses is not anticipated to be significant in northeast Eagan, however there is likely to be growth in “service offices” which includes uses like insurance/financial, medical/dental offices, and similar activities that generate customer traffic. Inver Grove Heights ⚫ Residential development is likely to continue at current densities observed in northwest Inver Grove Heights, which are approximately: ◼ Low density (single family) residential approximately 2 units per acre. ◼ Medium density (townhomes) approximately 9 units per acre. ⚫ Little retail development is anticipated beyond 2040 forecasts. ⚫ Non-retail commercial land uses would be anticipated to be in the mid-range of the allowable densities from the comprehensive plan. The Beyond 2040 analysis showed that the majority of the RRSVS study area will be developed by 2040, with a relatively small amount of development remaining beyond 2040. 1 Minnesota Vikings Headquarters and Mixed Use Development AUAR Update, April 2021. https://www.cityofeagan.com/images/CommunityDevelopment/Planning/MVVenturesAUARUpdate_05112021.pdf Page 75 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 8 Transportation Conditions Transportation improvements were identified based on needs and constraints in five key areas: ⚫ Traffic capacity ⚫ Safety ⚫ Roadway connectivity ⚫ Roadway expansion impacts ⚫ Environmental resources The following sections present the technical analysis of each of these areas. The analysis was used to identify the existing and future transportation needs in the study area and the impacts of potential transportation improvements. The focus of the technical analysis was on county and state highways and city collectors: ⚫ TH 3 (Robert Trail) ⚫ TH 149 (Dodd Road/Jefferson Trail) ⚫ TH 55 (Courthouse Boulevard) ⚫ CR 26 (Lone Oak Road/70th Street W) ⚫ CR 28 (Yankee Doodle Road/80th Street W/Amana Trail) ⚫ CR 63 (Argenta Trail/Delaware Ave) ⚫ CR 71 (Rich Valley Boulevard) ⚫ 65th Street ⚫ Vikings Parkway These roadways provide the primary transportation infrastructure that support developing areas and connect to the regional transportation network. The capacity and operations of freeways and local neighborhood streets were not part of the RRSVS analysis because they serve inter-regional and local transportation purposes, respectively. TRANSPORTATION NEEDS Traffic Capacity Existing average annual daily traffic volumes (AADT), existing intersection counts, and forecast daily traffic volumes were used to evaluate future traffic operations at the roadway and intersection level. The planning-level traffic capacity thresholds in Table 2 were used to determine whether additional through lanes (roadway expansion) would be needed to accommodate the expected future traffic volumes. The capacity thresholds are consistent with the 2040 Dakota County Transportation Plan. Page 76 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 9 Table 2. Roadway Segment Capacity Thresholds Number of Through Lanes Approaching Traffic Capacity (vehicles/day) Maximum Traffic Capacity (vehicles/day) 4 Lanes 31,000 35,000 3 Lanes 15,000 18,000 2 Lanes 8,500 10,000 Intersection capacity was evaluated for 34 intersections in the study area. The capacity analysis was based on the methods outlined in the Highway Capacity Manual (HCM) 6th Edition using Synchro/SimTraffic version 11. The primary inputs of the HCM methodology are the number of lanes and the hourly traffic volumes. The intersection analysis was completed for future year a.m. and p.m. peak hours. The following volume/capacity (v/c) thresholds were used for the intersection evaluations: ⚫ Over Capacity: v/c > 1.0 An intersection that is over capacity would have significant congestion and backups. At a traffic signal, vehicles may have to wait through multiple signal cycles. ⚫ Approaching Capacity: 0.85 < v/c < 1.0 An intersection approaching capacity would be congested and drivers would experience back-ups and slower traffic. Pandemic Impacts on Traffic At the time of the RRSVS Update, traffic volumes and patterns were still being impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Total daily traffic volumes in 2021/2022 have been observed to be similar to pre-pandemic levels, however the time-of-day travel patterns continue to be different in 2021/2022 compared to pre-pandemic conditions. Traffic volumes in the morning peak hour have generally been observed to be lower than pre- pandemic conditions, mid-day volumes are generally higher than pre-pandemic conditions, and afternoon peak hour volumes are similar to pre-pandemic conditions. It is not known if peak hour traffic patterns will fully return to pre-pandemic conditions due to permanent changes in the amount of remote work and commuter behaviors, however traffic operations and congestion in the afternoon peak hour have largely returned to pre-pandemic conditions. In some locations the hours of congestion may be shorter, but the congested areas still indicate roadways or intersections with capacity or operations needs. Therefore, traffic volumes and forecasts in the RRSVS Update were not adjusted to specifically account for the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Traffic Forecasts The 2040 Dakota County Travel Demand Model was used to produce the traffic forecasts used in the traffic capacity analysis. The land use assumptions used in the travel demand model are documented in the Land Use section of this report. The 2040 Visioning Baseline model was used to understand the traffic conditions that would result if all the future development occurred, but no improvements were made to the existing transportation system. The following transportation network assumptions were used in the RRSVS 2040 Visioning Baseline model: ⚫ Existing roadway network was assumed in the study area, including improvements that are currently under construction on CR 26 (Lone Oak Road/70th Street W) and CR 63 (Argenta Trail). ⚫ Recommendations from the 2010 RRSVS that have not yet been implemented, such as an interchange at I-494/CR 63 (Argenta Trail), were not included in the 2040 Visioning Baseline model. Page 77 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 10 ⚫ Programmed roadway improvements outside the study area were included in the 2040 Visioning Baseline model. This includes improvements such as the expansion of 117th Street and paving of CR 73 (Akron Avenue) in Inver Grove Heights. The 2040 Visioning Baseline forecasts were then used to identify roadway and intersection capacity needs in the study area, as shown in Figure 3. The key findings of the 2040 Visioning Baseline capacity analysis were: ⚫ The largest traffic volumes are being generated by the higher intensity development, which is primarily in the area bounded by I-494 to the north, TH 3 (Robert Trail) to the east, TH 55 (Courthouse Boulevard) to the south, and TH 149 (Dodd Road) to the west. Without an interchange on I-494 between TH 149 (Dodd Road) and TH 3 (Robert Trail), traffic will rely on TH 3 (Robert Trail), CR 63 (Argenta Trail/Delaware Avenue) to TH 62 or TH 55, and TH 149 (Dodd Road) to access the regional highway network. ⚫ The signalized intersection at TH 55 (Courthouse Boulevard) and CR 28 (Yankee Doodle Road/Argenta Trail) will have increased congestion as traffic volumes increase. This is a concern because it is the first signalized intersection on TH 55 (Courthouse Boulevard) when approaching from the east. ⚫ The signalized intersections on TH 62 at TH 149 (Dodd Road) and at CR 63 (Delaware Avenue) currently are congested and will have greater traffic pressure in the future if other improvements are not made to the transportation system as the development occurs. The Beyond 2040 traffic capacity analysis did not identify any additional needs beyond those identified in the 2040 Visioning Baseline. Page 78 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 11 Figure 3. 2040 Visioning Baseline Traffic Capacity Needs. Safety Crash data was obtained using MnDOT’s Minnesota Crash Mapping Analysis Tool (MnCMAT) for the five-year period from 2015 through 2019. Crash rates were calculated for roadway segments and for intersections, with intersection crashes based on a 250-foot radius. The crash rates were compared to expected crash rates for similar roadways and intersections, and the critical crash rate was used to determine where the existing crash rate on a roadway or intersection significantly exceeded the expected crash rate. The evaluation of critical crash rates in the study area are summarized in Figure 4 and in the following key findings: ⚫ None of the roadway segments in the study area had a crash rate approaching or exceeding the critical crash rate. ⚫ Six intersections had a crash rate approaching the critical rate. An intersection with a crash rate that is approaching the critical crash rate would be monitored to determine if there is a safety concern. ⚫ Two intersections had a crash rate exceeding the critical rate. ◼ The CR 26 (Lone Oak Road/70th Street W)/CR 63 (Argenta Trail) intersection is currently under construction as a roundabout, and this improvement is expected to address the safety need at the intersection. Page 79 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 12 ◼ The TH 55 (Courthouse Boulevard)/CR 26 (Lone Oak Road) intersection has a high number of crashes because it is a congested, signalized intersection. Figure 4. Study Area Crash History (2015-2019) Source: MnCMAT Page 80 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 13 Roadway Connectivity Collector Streets Needs Collector streets connect between neighborhood streets and the state or county highway network, such as TH 3 (Robert Trail) and CR 26 (Lone Oak Road/70th Street W). In suburban areas, collector streets are typically needed every ½ to 1 mile for the following purposes: ⚫ Access management – City collector streets provide the link between neighborhood streets and the highway system. Full access intersections to the highway would be a minimum distance of 1/4 mile apart and partial access intersections would be a minimum distance of 1/8 mile apart. Connecting multiple neighborhood streets directly to the county and state highway network at full access locations would not be feasible based on the safety and mobility of the highway and the density of residential developments planned in the RRSVS area. Without collector streets, the traffic within developed areas would be served only by local streets with driveways for each parcel; these types of street are not compatible with the traffic volumes and speeds that would be connecting to the highway network. ⚫ Neighborhood circulation – Collector streets provide an organized system of circulation from neighborhood streets to collector streets, which then connect to the highway network. Neighborhood streets would only be allowed to access the highway network every 1/8 to 1/4 mile, as noted above, and some of the accesses would have partial access, meaning that left turns would not be allowed from the neighborhood street onto the highway. This would result in challenging traffic circulation through the neighborhoods. Collector streets are city streets and are intended to carry primarily local trips; collector streets are not highways and are not intended to carry regional traffic. In the RRSVS study area, three areas were identified that would need a collector street to support development and connect the neighborhood/commercial area to the highway network, as shown in Figure 5. ⚫ 65th Street Extension – East of TH 3 (Robert Trail), there are currently no east-west collector streets between Upper 55th Street and CR 26 (70th Street W), a distance of 1.5 miles. Without an extension of 65th Street between TH 3 (Robert Trail) and CR 73 (Babcock Trail), the area would have only residential streets to serve about 750 total acres. This area is designated for Low Density Residential in the Inver Grove Heights 2040 Land Use Plan (one to four units per acre). ⚫ Area near Alverno Avenue and Argenta Trail – In the area south of TH 55 (Courthouse Boulevard), there are currently no north-south collector streets between TH 149 (Dodd Road) and TH 3 (Robert Trail), a distance of 1.25 miles. Within the 2040 Metropolitan Urban Service Area (MUSA), which is the area intended to be serviced by city sewer and water, Eagan and Inver Grove Heights 2040 Land Use Plans identify Low Density Residential (one to four units per acre), Low-Medium Density Residential (four to eight units per acre), and Medium Density Residential (eight to 12 units per acre). The area covers a total of about 1,070 acres, with the MUSA area being more than half the total area. ⚫ Vikings Parkway Extension – West of CR 63 (Argenta Trail), the need for an east-west collector street was identified between I-494 and CR 26 (Lone Oak Road). The extension of Vikings Parkway to the east would serve the remainder of the Vikings Lakes Development east of Ames Crossing Road, which is identified for Major Office in the Eagan 2040 Land Use Plan. In addition to the future development areas identified with collector street needs, the realignment of CR 28 (80th Street W) east of TH 3 (Robert Trail) was also identified as a roadway connectivity need. CR 28 (80th Street W) currently has a partial-access intersection on TH 3 (Robert Trail) that is 1/8 mile north of the TH 55 ramp Page 81 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 14 intersection. Connecting CR 28 (80th Street W) to Amana Trail, another 1/8 mile north, would allow for a full access intersection and provide improved connectivity of the county road. Figure 5. Roadway Connectivity and Collector Street Needs Principal Arterials Principal arterials are highways that provide time-efficient and safe travel over long distances for large volumes of traffic, with an emphasis on mobility over access. Principal Arterial highways help connect the region with the other areas in the state, carry the major portion of trips to/from activity centers, and serve the majority of through movements. The Dakota County Principal Arterial Study, completed in 2018, focused on planning for principal arterials in Dakota County which are not freeways and are not intended to become freeways in the future. The recommendations of the Principal Arterial Study identified the following as future principal arterial highways in the RRSVS study area: ⚫ TH 3 (Robert Trail) south of TH 149 (Jefferson Trail) ⚫ TH 149 (Jefferson Trail/Dodd Road) south of TH 55 (Courthouse Boulevard) Page 82 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 15 ⚫ CR 28 (Yankee Doodle Road) between TH 149 (Dodd Road) and Amana Trail ⚫ CR 63 (Argenta Trail) between CR 28 (Amana Trail) and I-494 Due to the close spacing between TH 149 (Jefferson Trail/Dodd Road), CR 63 (Argenta Trail), and TH 3 (Robert Trail) and their roles in serving future traffic, TH 149 (Dodd Road) north of TH 55 (Courthouse Boulevard) and TH 3 (Robert Trail) north of TH 149 (Jefferson Trail) were not recommended as future Principal Arterial highways. The existing Principal Arterial highways and the recommended future Principal Arterial highways from the Dakota County study are shown in Figure 6. The intersection of TH 55 (Courthouse Boulevard) and CR 28 (Yankee Doodle Road/Argenta Trail) currently has a traffic signal and the intersection was identified in the Traffic Capacity analysis as approaching its capacity by 2040. To support the function of both roadways as Principal Arterial highways, the need for a future grade separation or high-capacity intersection was identified. Figure 6. Principal Arterial Needs Page 83 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 16 TRANSPOR TATION IMPACTS In addition to the transportation needs, the potential impacts of changes to the transportation system were also identified and documented. The impacts were used to inform the development and evaluation of potential improvements. Roadway Exp ansion When considering traffic capacity needs in the RRSVS study area, some of the existing roadways in the study area were identified as having greater impacts or constraints for roadway expansion (adding through vehicle lanes). Corridors that had at least two of the following characteristics were identified as constrained corridor roadways: ⚫ Roadway without existing highway right-of-way needed for additional through lanes ⚫ Steep grades or bluffs along the roadway ⚫ Fully developed areas with existing homes and driveway accesses on the roadway ⚫ Large areas of lakes, wetlands, or other natural resources adjacent to the roadway The constrained roadway corridors are shown in Figure 7. Constrained roadway corridors would have more significant impacts if the roadway was expanded (through vehicle lanes added) compared to other roadways in the RRSVS study area. Figure 7. Corridors with Roadway Expansion Impacts Page 84 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 17 Environmental R esources Potential environmental resources within the RRSVS study area were identified through a review of available data sources. ⚫ Natural Resources ◼ National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) depicts potential wetland areas and waterbodies based on stereoscopic analysis of high altitude and aerial photographs. ◼ National Hydrography Dataset (NHD) depicts drainage networks and related features, including rivers, streams, canals, lakes, and ponds. ◼ Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Public Waters Inventory (PWI) includes all waterbasins and watercourses that meet the criteria set forth in Minnesota Statutes, Section 103G.005. ◼ DNR Regionally Significant Ecological Areas (RSEA) dataset includes regionally significant terrestrial and wetland ecological areas in the seven-county metropolitan area. ◼ DNR Sites of Biodiversity Significance depicts areas with varying levels of native biodiversity that may contain high quality native plant communities, rare plants, rare animals, and/or animal aggregations. There are no Sites of Biodiversity in the study area. ◼ Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Flood Insurance Rate Map which identifies floodplains in the study area. ⚫ Parks and Trails – Parks and trails were identified through the Dakota County Interactive GIS mapping which includes county and city facilities. ⚫ Federally-Listed and State-Listed Species and Habitats – The DNR Natural Heritage Inventory System (NHIS) database and United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) database were reviewed for known occurrences of endangered, threatened, and special concern species. Species and habitats are not mapped to specific locations but their presence within Dakota County was documented. ⚫ Cultural Resources - Coordination with the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) identified three properties listed in the National or State Registers of Historic Places, and no known or suspected archaeological properties. The locations of cultural resources were identified at the Township Range Section (TRS) level. The identified cultural resources did not have a significant effect on the evaluation of alternatives; to simplify the mapping, historic properties are not shown on the maps in Figures 8 and 9. ⚫ Contaminated Sites – The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) “What’s In My Neighborhood” database was reviewed to identify properties in the MPCA inventory. The inventory includes contaminated sites that have been previously remediated, potentially contaminated sites that are currently being investigated or remediated, and sites with environmental permits and registrations from the MPCA. ⚫ Environmental Justice – Potential environmental justice areas, including areas of minority and low- income population groups, were reviewed based on the 2016-2020 American Community Survey (ACS). Environmental justice areas were mapped at the census block group level. ⚫ Social and Community - Social and community resources reviewed include the locations of schools, churches, hospitals, libraries, government buildings, and post offices. Page 85 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 18 The data gathered through the environmental review is documented in Figure 8 (north RRSVS study area) and Figure 9 (south RRSVS study area). Figure 8. Environmental Resources – North RRSVS Study Area Listed species are not mapped to specific locations, but species in Dakota County include: Northern Long-Eared Bat, Higgins Eye Mussel, Sheepnose Mussel, Snuffbox Mussel, Monarch Butterfly, Rusty Patched Bumble Bee, Minnesota Dwarf Trout Lily, and Prairie Bush-Clover. Page 86 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 19 Figure 9. Environmental Resources – South RRSVS Study Area Listed species are not mapped to specific locations, but species in Dakota County include: Northern Long-Eared Bat, Higgins Eye Mussel, Sheepnose Mussel, Snuffbox Mussel, Monarch Butterfly, Rusty Patched Bumble Bee, Minnesota Dwarf Trout Lily, and Prairie Bush-Clover. Page 87 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 20 Development and Evaluation of Transportation Improvements The process to develop and evaluate transportation improvements in the RRSVS study area started with the identification of improvements that could potentially address one of the documented existing or future transportation needs. To address the capacity, safety, and connectivity needs identified in the study, multiple types of improvements were considered: ⚫ Roadway expansions (adding through vehicle lanes) ⚫ New roadways ⚫ Interchange expansions ⚫ New interchanges ⚫ Intersection improvements ⚫ Spot improvements such as turn lanes and intersection control ⚫ Corridor improvements such as access management Improvements to existing roadways focused on key corridors in the study area: ⚫ TH 3 (Robert Trail) ⚫ TH 149 (Dodd Road/Jefferson Trail) ⚫ TH 62 ⚫ CR 26 (Lone Oak Road/70th Street W) ⚫ CR 28 (Yankee Doodle Road/80th Street W/Amana Trail) ⚫ CR 63 (Argenta Trail/Delaware Ave) Potential improvements or changes were not considered on freeways such as I-35E or on neighborhood streets. A list of 21 potential transportation improvements were identified for evaluation, which included the recommended improvements from the 2010 RRSVS as well as some new potential improvements that were not identified in the 2010 RRSVS. The evaluation of each of the potential improvements considered how well it met one of the identified transportation needs and its potential environmental and property impacts. The traffic forecasting model was used to test how various combinations of improvements addressed the RRSVS Visioning Baseline capacity need, the amount of roadway expansion needed, and the traffic volume shifts resulting from different combinations of improvements. The 21 potential improvements and the evaluation of each improvement are summarized in Table 3. Page 88 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 21 Table 3. Evaluation of Potential RRSVS Transportation Improvements Potential Transportation Improvement Alternative 2010 RRSVS Study Recommendation? Transportation Needs Environmental and Property Impacts Capacity Safety Connectivity 1 CR 26 (70th Street W), TH 3 (Robert Trail) to CR 73 (Babcock Trail): Expansion to 4 lanes Yes 2 65th Street Extension, TH 3 (Robert Trail) to CR 73 (Babcock Trail): City collector street (2 lanes) Yes 3 CR 28 (80th Street W) at TH 3: Roadway realignment (2 lanes) Yes 4 TH 3 (Robert Trail), CR 30 (Diffley Road) to CR 71 (Rich Valley Boulevard): Expansion to 4 lanes Yes 5 TH 149 (Jefferson Trail), CR 71 (Rich Valley Boulevard) to TH 3 (Robert Trail): Expansion to 4 lanes Yes 6 CR 28 (Yankee Doodle Road) to TH 149 (Jefferson Trail) or CR 71 (Rich Valley Boulevard): City collector street (2 lanes) Yes 7 TH 3 (Robert Trail), CR 71 (Rich Valley Boulevard) to TH 55 (Courthouse Boulevard): Expansion to 4 lanes Yes (without Argenta/ I-494 interchange) 8 TH 3 (Robert Trail), TH 55 (Courthouse Boulevard) to CR 26 (70th Street W): Expansion to 4 lanes Yes (long term) (without Argenta/ I-494 interchange) 9 TH 3 (Robert Trail), CR 26 (70th Street W) to I-494: Expansion to 4 lanes Yes (long term) (without Argenta/ I-494 interchange) 10 TH 3 (Robert Trail)/I-494/TH 62 Interchange Improvements No 11 TH 55 (Courthouse Boulevard) and CR 28 (Yankee Doodle Road/Argenta Trail) High-Capacity Intersection or Interchange Yes 12 CR 63 (Argenta Trail), TH 55 (Courthouse Boulevard) to I-494: Expansion to 4 lanes Yes (6 lanes) (with Argenta/I-494 interchange) Note: The improvement numbering system was used for referencing of individual items and does not indicate evaluation ranking or priority. LEGEND: Transportation Needs Environmental and Property Impacts Fully Meets Need Positive Effects Partially Meets Need Neutral Effects or Moderate Negative Effects Does Not Meet Need Significant Negative Effects Page 89 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 22 Table 3. Evaluation of Potential RRSVS Transportation Improvements (continued) Potential Transportation Improvement Alternative 2010 RRSVS Study Recommendation? Transportation Needs Environmental and Property Impacts Capacity Safety Connectivity 13 CR 63 (Argenta Trail)/I-494 Interchange Yes 14 Vikings Parkway extension: City collector street (2 lanes) Yes 15 TH 149 (Dodd Road), TH 55 (Courthouse Boulevard) to I-494: Expansion to 6 lanes Yes (at TH 55) 16 TH 149 (Dodd Road)/I-494 Interchange Improvements No 17 CR 26 (Lone Oak Road), I-35E to CR 43 (Lexington Avenue): Expansion to 6 lanes Yes 18 TH 62/TH 149 (Dodd Road) Intersection Improvements: Additional evaluation needed to identify specific improvements No 19 TH 62/CR 63 (Delaware Avenue) Intersection Improvements: Additional evaluation needed to identify specific improvements No 20 CR 63 (Delaware Avenue), I-494 to TH 62: Spot improvements No 21 CR 28 (Amana Trail), CR 63 (Argenta Trail) to TH 3 (Robert Trail): Expansion to 4 lanes Yes Note: The improvement numbering system was used for referencing of individual items and does not indicate evaluation ranking or priority. LEGEND: Transportation Needs Environmental and Property Impacts Fully Meets Need Positive Effects Partially Meets Need Neutral Effects or Moderate Negative Effects Does Not Meet Need Significant Negative Effects Page 90 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 23 Based on the evaluation shown in Table 3, there were five potential transportation improvements that did not meet a transportation need. These alternative improvements were therefore not considered further and are not included in the recommendations for this study. 10. TH 3 (Robert Trail)/I-494/TH 62 Interchange Improvements – The 2040 and Beyond 2040 traffic forecasts did not show traffic capacity needs at the interchange, and additional interchange capacity at TH 3 (Robert Trail) would not be needed with a new interchange at CR 63 (Argenta Trail)/I-494. This finding is consistent with the 2010 RRSVS, which included more intense development in the study area. 15. TH 149 (Dodd Road), TH 55 (Courthouse Boulevard) to I-494: Expansion to 6 lanes – The 2010 RRSVS included a recommendation to expand the roadway to six vehicle lanes. The RRSVS Update forecasts for 2040 and Beyond 2040 showed traffic volumes on TH 149 (Dodd Road) less than 35,000 vehicles per day, which indicates a 6-lane section would not be needed. In addition, a new interchange at CR 63 (Argenta Trail)/I-494 would reduce the future traffic demands on TH 149 (Dodd Road) in this segment. 16. TH 149 (Dodd Road)/I-494 Interchange Improvements – The 2040 and Beyond 2040 traffic forecasts did not show traffic capacity needs at the interchange, and additional interchange capacity at TH 149 (Dodd Road) would not be needed with a new interchange at CR 63 (Argenta Trail)/I-494. This finding is consistent with the 2010 RRSVS, which included more intense development in the study area. 17. CR 26 (Lone Oak Road), I-35E to CR 43 (Lexington Avenue): Expansion to 6 lanes – The 2010 RRSVS included a recommendation to expand the roadway to six vehicle lanes. The RRSVS Update forecasts for 2040 and Beyond 2040 showed traffic volumes on CR 26 (Lone Oak Road) were less than 35,000 vehicles per day, which indicates a 6-lane section would not be needed. In addition, the forecasts on this segment of CR 26 (Lone Oak Road) had little variation in traffic volume when testing combinations of potential improvements in the RRSVS study area, which indicates that this roadway segment is not significantly affected by the transportation improvements in the RRSVS study area. 21. CR 28 (Amana Trail), CR 63 (Argenta Trail) to TH 3 (Robert Trail): Expansion to 4 lanes – The 2010 RRSVS included a recommendation to expand the roadway to four vehicle lanes. The RRSVS Update forecasts for 2040 and Beyond 2040 showed traffic volumes on CR 28 (Amana Trail) less than 8,000 vehicles per day, which indicates a 4-lane section would not be needed. In addition, the forecasts on this segment of CR 28 (Amana Trail) had little variation in traffic volume when testing combinations of potential improvements in the RRSVS study area, which indicates that this roadway segment is not significantly affected by the transportation improvements in the RRSVS study area. The technical analysis and evaluation also showed that several potential improvements should be modified or reduced in scope, for example corridor spot improvements instead of corridor expansion (adding through vehicle lanes). The details of these scope modifications and the technical analysis supporting the modifications to improvements scope are discussed in the Recommendations section of this report. Page 91 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 24 Public Input Opportunities for the public to provide input and updates to elected officials in each city occurred at two key points in the RRSVS Update: during the project initiation/data collection phase and during the recommendations phase. The feedback was used to inform and validate the transportation needs and to inform the final recommendations of the study. OPEN HOUSE #1 The intent of Open House #1 was to inform the public about the study and gather input about transportation challenges and opportunities in the study area. The first open house was held in November 2021 with both in- person and virtual options for participation. The open house materials were available on the project website and comments were requested during a three-week period in November 2021. The in-person meeting was held on November 9, 2021 at Friendly Hills Middle School in Mendota Heights. About 70 people attended the in-person open house and there were 512 visits to the project website during the virtual open house. The major themes of public feedback during Open House #1 included: ⚫ Concern about Alverno Avenue becoming a major north-south street south of TH 55 (Courthouse Boulevard), the desire to retain rural character of the area, and concern with impacts to private property. ⚫ Concern about traffic and pedestrian safety at specific intersections on TH 149 (Dodd Road) and on TH 62. ⚫ Questions about whether additional lanes are needed on TH 3 (Robert Trail) and concerns with impacts to private property. ⚫ Questions about timeline for roadway improvements. ⚫ Desire for transparency of the decision-making processes for future land use, long-term transportation plan, and roadway projects. OPEN H OUSE #2 The purpose of Open House #2 was to share the transportation needs analysis and draft recommendations for the study area. The open house was held in June 2022 with both in-person and virtual options for participation. The open house materials were available on the project website and comments were requested during June 2022. The in-person meeting was held on June 1, 2022 at Veterans Memorial Community Center in Inver Grove Heights. About 60 people attended the in-person open house and there were 157 visits to the project website during the virtual open house. The major themes of public feedback during Open House #2 included: ⚫ General support for not expanding TH 3 (Robert Trail) to a four-lane roadway north of CR 71 (Rich Valley Boulevard). ⚫ Concern for expansion (adding through vehicle lanes) on TH 3 (Robert Trail) south of CR 71 (Rich Valley Boulevard). ⚫ Concern for developing city collector streets, especially 65th Street east of TH 3 (Robert Trail) and a collector street south of TH 55 (Courthouse Boulevard) near Alverno Avenue. ⚫ Support for a new interchange at CR 63 (Argenta Trail)/I-494. Page 92 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 25 As part of the updates to city councils in summer 2022, Sunfish Lake and Mendota Heights provided the following feedback on the study: ⚫ Sunfish Lake expressed concern about safety and delays on Salem Church Road at CR 63 (Delaware Avenue) and TH 3 (Robert Trail), especially as traffic volumes increase. ⚫ Mendota Heights requested that the RRSVS Update address pedestrian and bicycle needs in the study area. Page 93 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 26 Recommendations The recommendations of the RRSVS Update are intended to guide the planning and implementation of transportation improvements within the study area over the next 20 years. Significant growth is anticipated in the next 20 years, and a unified transportation vision is needed to support development and guide future efforts of the cities, county, and MnDOT to plan, fund, and implement transportation improvements. ROADWAY IMPROVEMENTS The 16 roadway recommendations of the RRSVS Update reflect the changes that have occurred in traffic conditions, land use plans, and the transportation network since the 2010 RRSVS was completed. The recommended improvements will provide for safe and efficient travel in and through the study area and support development in the RRSVS study area and surrounding communities. Each of the recommended roadway improvements is shown in Figure 10; the need for the improvement, dependencies among improvements, and modifications the to improvement scope compared to the 2010 RRSVS recommendations are discussed below. The improvement numbering system was used for referencing on the map and does not indicate importance or priority. 1. CR 26 (70th Street W), TH 3 (Robert Trail) to CR 73 (Babcock Trail): Expansion to 3 lanes – The 2040 and Beyond 2040 traffic forecasts showed future traffic volumes of about 10,000 vehicles per day, which indicates that improvements would be needed to the existing two-lane roadway. Based on the technical analysis, the scope of this improvement was modified from a four-lane expansion (recommended in the 2010 RRSVS) to a three-lane expansion (recommended in the RRSVS Update). A three-lane roadway would have one through lane in each direction with left-turn lanes. Access management will also be needed on CR 26 (70th Street W), consistent with the 2040 Dakota County Transportation Plan. 2. 65th Street Extension, TH 3 (Robert Trail) to CR 73 (Babcock Trail): City collector street (2 lanes) – The RRSVS Update confirmed the need for the 65th Street extension to support residential development in the area bounded by TH 3 (Robert Trail), Upper 55th Street, CR 73 (Babcock Trail), and CR 26 (70th Street W). The 2040 and Beyond 2040 forecasts show that the 65th Street extension would carry 800 to 2,000 vehicles per day, with the higher volume expected if the CR 63 (Argenta Trail)/I-494 interchange was constructed. If 65th Street were not extended between TH 3 (Robert Trail) and Babcock Trail (CR 73), the analysis indicated that the recommended number of lanes on TH 3 (Robert Trail) and CR 26 (70th Street W) would not change. However, neighborhood street connections to the county and state highways would only be permitted at most every 1/4 mile (full access) or 1/8 mile (partial access). This means that all the traffic from the future neighborhoods (800 to 2,000 vehicles per day) would be accessing the highway system via neighborhood streets. Residential streets, with very frequent driveway accesses, are not designed to accommodate these traffic volumes and would be expected to negatively impact safety and livability on the neighborhood streets. 3. CR 28 (80th Street W) at TH 3: Roadway realignment (2 lanes) – This recommendation meets a connectivity need because CR 28 (80th Street W) currently intersects TH 3 (Robert Trail) only 1/8 mile north of the TH 55 ramp intersection. Based on access management guidelines, the existing CR 28 (80th Street W)/TH 3 (Robert Trail) intersection is a partial access. Realignment of CR 28 (80th Street W) to intersect TH 3 (Robert Trail) at Amana Trail would allow for a full access intersection and provide improved connectivity of the county road. Page 94 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 27 4. TH 3 (Robert Trail), CR 30 (Diffley Road) to CR 71 (Rich Valley Boulevard): Expansion to 4 lanes – The 2040 and Beyond 2040 forecasts showed future traffic volumes of 16,500 to 19,000 vehicles per day south of TH 149 (Jefferson Trail), which indicates that a four-lane roadway would be needed to provide adequate capacity. This recommendation is also supported by the identification of TH 3 (Robert Trail) and TH 149 (Jefferson Trail) as future principal arterial highways. More detailed traffic analysis will be needed to determine the intersection design and control at the TH 3 (Robert Trail)/TH 149 (Jefferson Trail) intersection and the number of lanes on TH 3 (Robert Trail) between TH 149 (Jefferson Trail) and CR 71 (Rich Valley Boulevard). The expansion of TH 3 (Robert Trail) would require modifications or reconstruction of the existing railroad bridge. 5. TH 149 (Jefferson Trail), CR 71 (Rich Valley Boulevard) to TH 3 (Robert Trail): Expansion to 4 lanes – The 2040 and Beyond 2040 forecasts showed future traffic volumes of 13,000 to 14,500 vehicle per day south of Wescott Road, which indicates that additional lanes would be needed to provide adequate capacity. This recommendation is also supported by the need for continuity with the segment of TH 149 (Dodd Road) to the north and identification of TH 149 (Jefferson Trail/Dodd Road) as a future principal arterial highway. More detailed traffic analysis will be needed to determine the intersection design and control at TH 3 (Robert Trail) and TH 149 (Jefferson Trail). 6. CR 28 (Yankee Doodle Road) to TH 149 (Jefferson Trail) or CR 71 (Rich Valley Boulevard): City collector street (2 lanes) – The RRSVS Update confirmed the need for a city collector street to support the low- to medium-density residential development in the 2040 MUSA area south of TH 55 (Courthouse Boulevard) between TH 149 (Jefferson Trail/Dodd Road) and TH 3 (Robert Trail). The city collector street would connect neighborhoods to the highway network and is not intended to serve through traffic. The collector street is recommended to connect to CR 71 (Rich Valley Boulevard) because the RRSVS Update traffic forecasting showed that a connection to TH 149 (Dodd Road) would be more likely to result in cut-through traffic. If a city collector street were not built as the low- to medium-density residential land uses are developed, all the traffic from the neighborhood would be accessing the highway system via neighborhood streets. Residential streets, with very frequent driveway accesses, are not designed to accommodate these traffic volumes and would be expected to negatively impact safety and livability on the neighborhood streets. 7. TH 3 (Robert Trail), CR 71 (Rich Valley Boulevard) to TH 55 (Courthouse Boulevard): Spot Improvements – The 2040 and Beyond 2040 forecasts showed that future traffic volumes would remain less than 10,000 vehicles per day if TH 3 (Robert Trail) is not expanded and if an interchange is constructed at CR 63 (Argenta Trail)/I-494. Based on the traffic forecasts, corridor constraints in this segment of the TH 3 (Robert Trail) corridor, and both public and agency input, the scope of this improvement was modified from a roadway expansion (recommended in the 2010 RRSVS) to spot improvements which could include shoulders, turn lanes, access management, and intersection improvements. More detailed traffic analysis will be needed to determine the location and type of spot improvements. 8. TH 3 (Robert Trail), TH 55 (Courthouse Boulevard) to CR 26 (70th Street W): Spot Improvements – The 2040 and Beyond 2040 forecasts showed that future traffic volumes would remain less than 10,000 vehicles per day if TH 3 (Robert Trail) is not expanded and if an interchange is constructed at CR 63 (Argenta Trail)/I-494. Based on the traffic forecasts, corridor constraints in this segment of the TH 3 (Robert Trail) corridor, and both public and agency input, the scope of this improvement was modified from a roadway expansion (recommended in the 2010 RRSVS) to spot improvements which could include shoulders, turn lanes, access management, and intersection Page 95 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 28 improvements. More detailed traffic analysis will be needed to determine the location and type of spot improvements. 9. TH 3 (Robert Trail), CR 26 (70th Street W) to I-494: Spot Improvements – The 2040 and Beyond 2040 forecasts showed that future traffic volumes would remain less than 10,000 vehicles per day if TH 3 (Robert Trail) is not expanded and if an interchange is constructed at CR 63 (Argenta Trail)/I-494. Based on the traffic forecasts, corridor constraints in this segment of the TH 3 (Robert Trail) corridor, and both public and agency input, the scope of this improvement was modified from a roadway expansion (recommended in the 2010 RRSVS) to spot improvements which could include shoulders, turn lanes, access management, and intersection improvements. More detailed traffic analysis will be needed to determine the location and type of spot improvements. 11. TH 55 (Courthouse Boulevard) and CR 28/63 (Yankee Doodle Road/Argenta Trail) High- Capacity Intersection or Interchange – This improvement meets a connectivity need because TH 55 (Courthouse Boulevard) is an existing principal arterial highway and CR 28 (Yankee Doodle Road/Argenta Trail) is identified as a future principal arterial highway. The existing traffic signal would be expected to have significant congestion by 2040. To support the function of both roadways as principal arterial highways, a future grade separation or high-capacity intersection is recommended. 12. CR 63 (Argenta Trail), TH 55 (Courthouse Boulevard) to I-494: Expansion to 4 lanes – The 2040 and Beyond 2040 traffic forecasts showed future traffic volumes of 18,000 to 33,000 vehicles per day with a new interchange at CR 63 (Argenta Trail)/I-494. Based on the technical analysis, the scope of this improvement was modified from a six-lane expansion (recommended in the 2010 RRSVS) to a four-lane expansion (recommended in the RRSVS Update). The roadway expansion would not be needed until the new interchange is constructed at I-494. 13. CR 63 (Argenta Trail)/I-494 Interchange – The 2040 and Beyond 2040 traffic forecasts showed that a new interchange at CR 63 (Argenta Trail)/I-494 would best provide regional highway access to and from the densest development in the RRSVS study area. This confirms the recommendation from the 2010 RRSVS. The 2010 RRSVS included significant analysis to site the interchange and roadway network around the interchange, therefore the recommendation in the RRSVS Update perpetuates the previously recommended location and design: the new interchange would provide access to and from Eagan, Inver Grove Heights, and both directions of I-494. There would not be direct access to the interchange from north of I-494. The design and footprint (interchange configuration) at CR 63 (Argenta Trail)/I-494 have not been determined. Further evaluation of the CR 63 (Argenta Trail)/I-494 interchange configuration would be needed to determine the interchange layout and whether the I-494/TH 3 West Ramps would need to be removed. The removal of the I-494/TH 3 West Ramps was not evaluated in this study. Changes in interchange access require significant time for evaluation, funding, and approvals. Future evaluations could determine that a new interchange is not warranted or may determine that other modifications may be needed along with the interchange. 14. Vikings Parkway Extension: City collector street (2 lanes) – This improvement meets a roadway connectivity need west of CR 63 (Argenta Trail). An east-west collector street between I-494 and CR 26 (Lone Oak Road) would serve the future development area east of Ames Crossing Road. 18. TH 62/TH 149 (Dodd Road) Intersection Improvements: Additional evaluation needed to identify specific improvements – This improvement meets both capacity and safety needs. While a new interchange at CR 63 (Argenta Trail)/I-494 would reduce the future traffic demand on this segment of TH 149 (Dodd Road), improvements would still be needed to address capacity issues and potential Page 96 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 29 existing safety needs. More detailed traffic analysis will be needed to determine the location and type of improvements. 19. TH 62/CR 63 (Delaware Avenue) Intersection Improvements: Additional evaluation needed to identify specific improvements – This improvement meets both capacity and safety needs. While a new interchange at CR 63 (Argenta Trail)/I-494 would reduce the future traffic demand on this segment of CR 63 (Delaware Avenue), improvements would still be needed to address capacity issues and potential existing safety needs. More detailed traffic analysis will be needed to determine the location and type of improvements. 20. CR 63 (Delaware Avenue), I-494 to TH 62: Spot Improvements – The 2040 and Beyond 2040 forecasts showed that future traffic volumes would be approaching the capacity of a two-lane roadway. While a new interchange at CR 63 (Argenta Trail)/I-494 would reduce the future traffic demand on this segment of CR 63 (Delaware Avenue), improvements would still be needed to address capacity issues. Spot improvements, which could include shoulders, turn lanes, access management, and intersection improvements, are recommended to address the capacity need. More detailed traffic analysis will be needed to determine the location and type of spot improvements. The RRSVS Update recommendations discussed in this section are focused on the system level and reflect the needs on the highway corridors and at major intersections and interchanges. These recommendations do not preclude or limit agencies from evaluating and implementing localized improvements, such as at minor intersections or on smaller roadway segments, where the agencies identify a specific need. The roadway and intersection capacity for the study area, with the 16 recommended improvements, is shown in Figure 11. The analysis shows that the 2040 capacity needs would be addressed by the recommended improvements and no roadway segments or intersections would be over capacity. The segment of CR 63 (Argenta Trail) between 65th Street and I-494 would be approaching the capacity of a four-lane roadway section. This segment of roadway would be part of the CR 63 (Argenta Trail)/I-494 interchange, would primarily serve turning traffic to and from I-494, and would not have any through traffic; therefore, additional through lanes are not recommended. The interchange configuration, including the number of turn lanes, should be further evaluated in future phases of the interchange analysis and design. Page 97 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 30 Figure 10. RRSVS Update Recommendations Page 98 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 31 Figure 11. 2040 RRSVS Update Traffic Capacity Needs with Recommendations. OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS 2010 RRSVS In addition to the 16 roadway improvements recommended, there were also two areas where the RRSVS Update recommendation is not to implement an improvement that was identified in the 2010 RRSVS. The technical analysis in the RRSVS Update did not show a transportation need for either of these roadways in 2040 or Beyond 2040 traffic forecasts. 17. CR 26 (Lone Oak Road), I-35E to CR 43 (Lexington Avenue): The 2010 RRSVS included a recommendation to expand the roadway to six vehicle lanes. The RRSVS Update showed 2040 traffic forecasts less than 35,000 vehicles per day, which indicates a six-lane section would not be needed. Therefore, expansion to a six-lane roadway is not recommended. 21. CR 28 (Amana Trail), CR 63 (Argenta Trail) to TH 3 (Robert Trail): The RRSVS Update showed 2040 traffic forecasts less than 8,000 vehicles per day, which indicates the existing roadway section with one lane in each direction, turn lanes, and access management would meet the future capacity needs. Therefore, expansion to a four-lane roadway is not recommended. Page 99 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 32 Multimodal Transportation Trails, sidewalks, and bikeways are important elements of a safe and efficient transportation system and provide transportation and recreation options for people of all ages and abilities. As noted in the 2010 RRSVS, many of the regional routes in the study area are not conducive for bicycle and pedestrian use due to narrow shoulders and limited sight distance due to curves and hills. Dakota County, the cities, and MnDOT should plan for appropriate pedestrian and bicycle facilities in parallel with the recommended roadway improvements from this study and consistent with the pedestrian and bicycle networks identified in the 2040 Comprehensive Plans. Page 100 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 33 Implementation The implementation of specific recommendations in the RRSVS Update will be driven by the rate of development and growth in traffic volumes on the roadway network. The recommendations also include additional studies and more detailed preliminary design for intersections and roadway segments. The improvements included in the RRSVS Update recommendations should be incorporated into appropriate capital improvement programs as the following occurs: ⚫ Capacity and/or safety needs are identified on the existing transportation system ⚫ Opportunities arise to coordinate with development or other outside funding sources ⚫ Specific to the CR 63 (Argenta Trail)/I-494 interchange, the necessary supporting roadway system connections need to be in place prior to or built with the new interchange. ⚫ An Interchange Warrant Analysis was completed and submitted to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) as part of the 2010 RRSVS. A more detailed and comprehensive operations and safety analysis will be required if the interchange access process moves forward. ◼ If FHWA determines that the warrant analysis has merit to proceed to the next step, an Interstate Access Request (IAR) would be prepared. This process would address operations and safety on I‐ 494 in greater detail. Based on input from FHWA and Mn/DOT during the 2010 RRSVS, this analysis would require a formal layout for the interchange and other access changes, as well as an environmental study that meets state and federal requirements. The RRSVS agency partners should pursue a variety of funding sources, both public and private, to implement the transportation vision for the RRSVS study area. As individual projects move into the engineering phase, the alignments and specific property impacts would be determined by the partner agencies and additional environmental review and public engagement would be conducted. STUDY ADOPTION To conclude the RRSVS Update study, in August and September 2022 the recommendations were presented to the City of Eagan, City of Inver Grove Heights, City of Mendota Heights, City of Sunfish Lake, and Dakota County Board for adoption. The signed resolutions from each city and the county board are provided in the Appendix. Page 101 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 34 Appendix: City Council and County Board Resolutions Page 102 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 35 Resolutions will be added following action by city councils and County Board. Page 103 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Page 104 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Request for City Council Action DATE: August 16, 2022 TO: Mayor, City Council, and City Administrator FROM: Kell y Torkelson, Assistant City Administrator SUBJECT: Volunteer Program Report and Adopt-A-Park Update INTRODUCTION The Mendota Heights City Council approved a new city volunteer policy and established an official city volunteer program in April. This item is an update to the council regarding the progress of the program and an update on Adopt-A-Park programs. BACKGROUND Mendota Heights has a long and established tradition of community volunteerism. One of the challenges of developing a program is translating the existing inertia within the community into a formal process. Staff have worked hard to ensure a high level of customer service to the community members who have signed up for the program while also navigating some of the challenges of implementing a new program. Some of the accomplishments of the program thus far include: 1.Volunteer website The city has launched the volunteer website on the city website that outlines the program and invites community members to submit a contact form so that staff can connect with them and help them to find opportunities to serve in Mendota Heights. 2.Training Materials With a new program comes new opportunities for participating. Staff have developed training materials such as videos or tutorials to easily help volunteers to get training when it is convenient to them while also minimizing staff time. However, while long term these materials will reduce the amount of staff time, they do require significant up-front work to develop. 9bPage 105 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 3.Communication Ensuring that volunteers have a positive customer service experience is critical to success of the program. Staff have met and developed plans for ensuring that volunteers feel connected and informed from their first visit to their training and onboarding, as well as when they finally are connected to opportunities to serve. 4.Developing Opportunities The city’s volunteer program was designed for two avenues of interest. The first was opportunities defined by staff. Some of these were one time opportunities, others were more regular occurrences such as an event volunteer. The second opportunity for involvement in the program was to be volunteer driven, where staff worked with volunteers to define opportunities that they were interested in. We have not had any proposals from volunteers for program initiatives at this time. We have had several opportunities designed by staff for volunteering since the establishment of the program. First we had an opportunity for natural resources event at the Callahan Blvd Native planting on July 27thwhich had one volunteer participate. We also have some volunteers who will be helping out at the Parks Celebration. We also have had an ongoing park clean up volunteer who is regularly picking up litter around Wentworth Park. Upcoming opportunities are able to be reviewed on the city’s website and are also being shared through the city’s communications channels. 5. Launched Volgistics Portal Volgistics is the city’s volunteer software. This tool helps us to manage incoming volunteer information, requests, as well as to track hours and communication with volunteers. Through this portal staff are able to manage the volunteer onboarding process which include completion of contact information, volunteer interests, background checks, and volunteer training. Currently, eleven volunteers are currently being processed and five volunteers have fully completed the onboarding process. In total, the City has 23 volunteers in the volunteer program. This includes volunteers who have signed up through the website as well as volunteers who originally connected through the city’s CERT program or the police reserve program. Adopt-A-Park The city established an Adopt-A-Park program in May of 1991. The program provided community groups with the opportunity to clean up parks or trails in exchange for the City providing trash bags and a sign designating the adopted trail or park. The program required the groups to do two clean ups per year for a two year period. Based on staff recollection, this program was never very robust and struggled to generate community interest. Page 106 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Staff do not recommend reviving the Adopt-A-Park program at this time. Instead, staff is working on developing a Mendota Heights specific recognition program to celebrate the contributions of the ongoing park volunteers. Staff brought a conversation to the Parks and Recreation Commission in April of 2022 to discuss an Adopt-A-Park program and the commission was interested in recognizing the contributions of volunteers through the specific opportunities provided through the volunteer program. This recommendation is slightly different from an Adopt-A-Park model and staff do not recommend using the language of Adopt-A-Park to help avoid confusion about the program. BUDGET IMPACT N/A ACTION RECOMMENDED N/A ACTION REQUIRED Informational item. Page 107 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council This page intentionally left blank. Page 108 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Request for City Council Action DATE: August 16, 2022 TO: Mayor and City Council, City Administrator FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Parks and Recreation Manager John Boland, Public Works Superintendent SUBJECT: Consideration of Field Renovation Work at Civic Center INTRODUCTION The City Council is asked to consider proposed renovation work at the Civic Center baseball field. BACKGROUND Recently, the Mendota Heights Athletic Association (MHAA) has brought forth concerns to the City regarding the infield surface and lips that have occurred over the years at Civic Center field. Staff worked to determine the scope of the renovation work needed and provided the following recommendations: Survey of the existing field for calculating volumes and building finish designed surface Strip the infield, back arc and mound—regrade o Removal of the back-arc sod, infield sod and mound o Removal of the 8 feet along the warning tracks on the right and left field foul lines and correct the grade o Regrade the infield from 1st base dugout sloping to the shortstop area o Regrade the warning track edge to remove hump and improve drainage flow Install 8-inch mound o Rebuild the 8-inch mound with clay o Sod the arc and infield bases and regrade the foul territory area The City solicited quotes from reputable contractors for the project and received the following quotes: Minnesota Sodding Company (MSC) = $28,194.38 Magic Turf = $29,812.50 The quotes do not include the removal of spoils and the delivery of red rock material necessary for the project. Staff estimates this to cost an additional $1,000 that would be paid for by the City. 9cPage 109 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council When requesting quotes, staff notified potential contractors that the work would need to be completed by November 1, 2022. During construction and upon completion of the project, Civic Center field would be offline for users. A potential concern for this project would be impacts to the field from an expansion to the civic center campus. The city consulted architect, CNH Architects, is currently working on building renovation designs, some of which could impact the field in either the short or long term. BUDGET IMPACT This project would not qualify for Special Park Funds and was not budgeted for 2022. If the Council desires to move forward with this project, funding would need to come from the General Fund balance. ACTION REQUESTED The City Council is asked to consider the renovation work as proposed at the Civic Center baseball field and direct staff on next steps. If the Council desires to move forward with the Field Renovation Work at Civic Center, staff recommends the City Council approve the contract with Minnesota Sodding Company (MSC) in the amount of $28,194.38 to complete the project by November 1, 2022. Page 110 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council Request for City Council Action DATE: August 16, 2022 TO: Mayor and City Council, City Administrator FROM: Meredith Lawrence, Parks and Recreation Manager SUBJECT: Consideration of Temporary Wentworth Park Warming House for 2022-2023 Season INTRODUCTION The City Council is asked to determine the next steps for the 2022-2023 warming house season at Wentworth Park. BACKGROUND Each year the City floods ice skating rinks at Marie, Friendly Hills, and Wentworth parks. The warming houses at Marie and Friendly Hills have been renovated in the last 10 years, but the Wentworth warming house has not been replaced. It is in rough shape and staff believes is needs to be removed from the park for safety and aesthetic purposes. Over the past four years the City has been working to replace the warming house at Wentworth Park. Most recently the City Council requested a replacement of the warming house to be considered with expansion including restrooms, additional storage and other amenities. The lowest bid came in at $534,600, which was more than the engineer’s estimate of $360,000. The budget for this building was set at $250,000. The City Council rejected the bids for the project and asked staff to go back to the drawing board. Options moving forward may be to re-bid the project in early 2023 with the same scope or discuss changes to the scope of the project. Ultimately the existing warming house will not be replaced for the upcoming warming house season. DISCUSSION The Parks and Recreation Commission directed staff to determine options for a temporary warming house to be utilized for the 2022-2023 season. To be ready to bring in a temporary office trailer for the 2022-2023 season, the following would need to be completed: demolition of the existing warming house, moving the 100-amp service to a panel on the pole and disconnecting the gas from the existing structure. Once that work was completed a 10x25 office trailer could be leased from December 19-March 3 to provide a temporary warming house for the upcoming season. Page 111 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council 9d The costs associated with the installation of a temporary trailer are as follows: Move Electrical 100-Amp panel to existing light pole/move existing pipe Quotes received: o Highland Electric: $10,000 o Mid-Northern Services: $9,500 $9,500 Existing warming house demolition $2,500 Disconnect Gas from existing warming house $0 Trailer Lease for 10x25 foot structure $4,072.34 Rubber Matting (staff estimate) $250 Total $16,322.34 A majority of the costs associated with this project, with the exception of the trailer lease and rubber matting, would be necessary if a new structure is built in the future. Staff has worked with the Community Development Director to confirm that a temporary trailer, which is commonly seen in construction project areas throughout the City, would be allowable for a short-term timeframe in our park. If a temporary office trailer is not desired by the City Council, staff does not intend to utilize the existing warming house structure for the 2022-2023 season. BUDGET IMPACT This project would not qualify for Special Park Funds usage and was not budgeted for 2022. If the Council desires to move forward with this project, funding would need to come from the general fund balance. ACTION RECOMMENDED The Parks and Recreation Commission reviewed the consideration of a temporary warming house at Wentworth Park for the 2022-2023 season at their August 10 meeting. The Parks and Recreation Commission unanimously (5-0) recommended approval of the staff proposal being presented to the City Council. ACTION REQUESTED If the City Council concurs, it should, by motion, approve the demolition of the existing warming house at Wentworth Park, disconnecting the gas service from the existing structure and leasing of the trailer. In addition, the City Council should award Mid-Northern Services the project to move the 100-amp panel to the existing light pole for $9,500. Page 112 of 112 Tuesday, August 16, 2022 City Council