08-21-14 CM Agenda Packet (entire) AGENDA
Council/Manager Meeting
Golden Valley City Hall
7800 Golden Valley Road
Council Conference Room
Thursday, August 21, 2014
6:30 pm
Pages
1. Proposed City Code Amendment - Section 3 - Fats, Oils and Grease (FOG) 2-7
(30 minutes)
2. Council Code of Ethics (20 minutes) 8-16
3. Moratorium on Recycling Centers (30 minutes) 17-22
4. Lot Depth and Lot Shape (1 hour) 23-28
5. Biennial 2015-2016 Proposed General Fund Budget (1.5 hours) 29
6. Board/Commission Vacancies (10 minutes) 30
Council/Manager meetings have an informal, discussion-style format and are designed
for the Council to obtain background information, consider policy alternatives, and
provide general directions to staff. No formal actions are taken at these meetings. The
public is invited to attend Council/Manager meetings and listen to the discussion; public
participation is allowed by invitation of the City Council.
L763
s document is availableinalternate formats upon a 72-hour request. Please call
-593-8006 (TTY: 763-593-3968)to make a request.: Examples of alternate formats
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city 0
golden Ar MEMORANDUM
valley Public Works Department
763-593-8030/763-593-3988(fax)
Executive Summary
Golden Valley Council/Manager Meeting
August 21, 2014
Agenda Item
1. Fats, Oils, and Grease Ordinance Revisions/Additions
Prepared By
Jeff Oliver, PE, City Engineer
Bert Tracy, Maintenance Manager
Mitchell Hoeft, PE, Utility Engineer
Summary
Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG) is defined as the buildup of greasy material in the sanitary sewer
system; usually from animal or vegetable food sources that are discharged into a sink or floor
drain. Over time, these discharges begin to build up on the interior walls of the sanitary sewer
pipes, resulting in a decrease in capacity. These restrictions often result in sewer blockages and
backups.
In an attempt to minimize these issues, staff currently spends hundreds of hours cleaning and
jetting the sewer lines in the City each year. In some extreme cases, specific lines are cleaned as
often as once per week. In an ideal situation with the proper grease separation devices in place,
these lines would only need to be cleaned every three years. This additional maintenance effort
consumes City resources which could be better utilized on other utility maintenance issues.
• Because the Golden Valley City Code does not currently require the removal of FOG, the
City does not meet the Metropolitan Council Environmental Services Rules 406.04 and
406.05 or the EPA National Pretreatment Program (40 CFR 403.5(b)(3)) which specifically
prohibits the discharge of"solid or viscous pollutants in amounts which will cause
obstruction" into the wastewater collection system.
To properly address this issue, staff has drafted an ordinance to achieve proper removal and
disposal of FOG from the public sanitary sewer system. Of the 109 licensed food service providers
in the City, only about half are restaurants that produce this type of FOG. Some of these facilities
already have grease traps or interceptors installed, however, many do not. In addition to
requiring these facilities to have the necessary equipment in place, this ordinance would also
require each facility to be accountable for proper cleaning and maintenance of their equipment
to ensure that they continue to work effectively. To ensure this accountability, each food service
provider would be required to submit annual maintenance logs to the City for review.
One of the program details that staff would like City Council guidance on is the implementation
schedule for this ordinance, including installation of grease separation devices at food
preparation facilities.
Attachments
• Proposed Ordinance Amending City Code Chapters 3.32, Discharge of Fats, Oils and Grease
(FOG) and Section 3.01 Definitions. (4 pages)
CITY OF GOLDEN VALLEY
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CITY CODE
ADOPTING NEW SECTION 3.32: DISCHARGE OF FATS, OILS, AND GREASE (FOG)
The City Council for the City of Golden Valley hereby ordains:
Section 1. Chapter 3 of the Golden Valley City Code is hereby amended include a
new Section 3.32 to read in its entirety as follows:
Section 3.32: Discharge of Fats, Oils, and
Grease (FOG)
Subdivision 1. Installation
Any existing, new, renovated, or expanded Food Service Facility must install
a Grease Interceptor/Trap upon notice by the City that it has been
determined that the Fat, Oil and Grease discharge from such Food Service
Facility significantly impacts the City sewer system requiring undue additional
maintenance. Upon notification, the Food Service Facility shall have a period
of time stated in the notice, not exceeding one (1) calendar year, to install
the Grease Interceptor/Trap.
Subdivision 2. Design
All Grease Interceptors/Traps must be designed and installed in accordance
with the State of Minnesota Plumbing Code (MN Rule 4715) and the
Hennepin County Environmental Health Department.
Subdivision 3. Location
All Grease Interceptors/Traps shall be located as to be readily and easily
accessible for cleaning and inspection.
Subdivision 4. Annual Maintenance Record
By April 1 of each year, Food Service Facilities with Grease
Interceptors/Traps must submit annual maintenance records to the City on a
form that is provided by the City. The City may also perform periodic
inspections of Food Service Facilities to ensure that Grease
Interceptors/Traps are being properly maintained by each Food Service
Facility.
Subdivision S. Installation and Maintenance Policy and Procedures
The City shall maintain an Installation and Maintenance Policy and
Procedures which will document specific requirements of this Section. This
policy will be available to each Food Service Facility at the City.
Subdivision 6. Additional Control Measures
The City reserves the right to require additional control measures if existing
Grease Interceptors/Traps are determined to be insufficient to protect the
wastewater collection system from interference due to the discharge of FOG
from the Food Service Facility.
Section 3. City Code Section 3.01 is hereby amended to read in its entirety as
follows (struck text deleted, underlined text added):
Section 3.ol: De 1nitionS As used in this Chapter, the
following words and terms shall have the meanings stated:
1. Clear Water: is any surface flow, run off, and drainage that
does not contain any hazardous substance or sewage. This includes but
is not limited to NPDES permitted discharges, storm water and water
from foundation and footing drains and basement or other sump
pumps.
2. Consumer and Customer: mean any user of a utility.
3. Draintile: means a subsurface drainage and conveyance system of
clear water and groundwater into the storm sewer system.
4. Food Service Facility: means any facility containing an operation that
prepares, packages, serves, vends or otherwise provides food or which
disposes of food related wastes. Food service facility does not include
single or multi-family residential facilities, but does include institutional
facilities and other facilities designated by the City Manager or his/her
designee, as a facility that discharges enough FOG to have a significant
impact on the City's Sanitary Sewer System.
5. Fats, Oils and Grease or FOG: means material composed primarily of
fats, oils and grease from animal or vegetable sources.
6. Grease Interceptor/Trap: means a City-approved device for
separating and retaining waterborne FOG prior to wastewater exiting
the interceptor and entering the sanitary sewer collection and treatment
system.
7. Infiltration: is an indirect connection of clear water into the sanitary
sewer system.
8-5. Inflow: is any direct connection of clear water into the sanitary sewer
system.
96. Interceptor Sewer: means that portion of the sanitary sewer system
that extends outside of the City of Golden Valley and is owned,
operated and maintained by the Metropolitan Council.
10-7. Inspector: means any peFSen duly autheFized by the City Manager or
his/her designee,
118. Joint Water Commission (JWC): means the commission established
through a joint powers agreement between the cities of Golden Valley,
Crystal and New Hope to provide potable water to customers in the
three cities.
129. Minneapolis Water Works (MWW): means a municipal water system
owned and operated by the City of Minneapolis.
1319. Municipal Utility: means any city-owned utility system, including, but
not limited to water, sanitary sewer and storm sewer service.
1434. Owner: means the person or entity that owns or holds the title of a
property served by a municipal utility.
153-2. Sanitary Sewer System: includes all street lateral, main and
intersecting sewers and structures by which sewage or industrial wastes
are collected, transported, treated and disposed of; provided that this
shall not include plumbing inside or a part of a building or premises
served, or service sewers from a building to the sanitary sewer main.
163-3. Service: means providing a particular utility to a customer or
consumer.
1744. Sewage: means water-carried waste products from residences, public
buildings, institutions or other buildings or premises, including the
excrement or other discharge from the bodies of human beings or
animals.
1835. Sewer Service Lateral or Service Lateral: means that portion of the
sanitary sewer system that generally is perpendicular to the sewer main
and extends from the sewer main to the structure being served.
1936. Sewer Main: means that portion of the sanitary sewer system that is
owned, operated and maintained by the City. The City portion of the
sanitary sewer system is typically within street rights-of-way or
easements.
203 . Storm Sewer: means a subsurface drainage facility that conveys storm
water runoff and snow melt runoff into surface water bodies.
211.8. Sump Pump Inspection: means a visual examination of a sump pit
and the pump and discharge piping designed to remove liquids
therefrom.
223 . Trunk Water Main: means water mains larger than twelve (12) inches
in diameter that distribute water throughout the distribution system and
are owned by the Joint Water Commission and maintained by the City.
232-9. Utility: means all utility services, whether public, city-owned facilities,
or furnished by public utility companies.
2421. Water Main: means that portion of the potable water distribution
system that is twelve (12) inches in diameter and smaller, and is
owned, operated and maintained by the City.
252 . Water Service: means that portion of the potable water system that is
generally perpendicular to the water main that extends from the water
main to the structure or group of structures being served.
Section 4. City Code Chapter 1 entitled "General Provisions and Definitions
Applicable to the Entire City Code Including Penalty for Violation" and Section 3.99 of
City Code entitled "Violation a Misdemeanor" are hereby adopted in their entirety, by
reference, as though repeated verbatim herein.
Section 5. This Ordinance shall take effect from and after its passage and
publication as required by law.
Adopted by the City Council this day of , 2014.
Shepard M. Harris, Mayor
ATTEST:
Kristine A. Luedke, City Clerk
city 0.9 v lot
f
gotaen MEMORANDUM
valley City Administration/Council
763-593-8003/763-593-8109(fax)
Executive Summary for Action
Golden Valley City Council/Manager Meeting
August 21, 2014
Agenda Item
2. Council Code of Ethics
Prepared By
Thomas Burt, City Manager
Summary
At the Council goal setting earlier this year, Council requested that Council consider a code of
ethics. Attached is information from the Minnesota Mayors Association "Minnesota Mayors
Handbook" on meeting decorum, mayor-council relationship, open meeting law and a template
code of conduct policy from the League of Minnesota Cities.
If the Council would like to move forward with a policy, the Council should identify what they
would like to be included in a policy.
Attachments
• Meeting Decorum (2 pages)
• Mayor-Council Relationship (2 pages)
• Open Meeting Laws (2 pages)
• Template Code of Conduct (2 pages)
MINNESOTA ••
III. Meeting decorum
Meeting decorum may be an aspect of the city council's bylaws or it may be a
separate set of expectations and rules that may or may not be formally adopted
in written form. Decorum is more easily enforced,however,when expectations
are written.
A. Typical decorum requirements
See Minnesota Mayors Typical rules of decorum require councilmembers to:
Association Sample City
Council Bylaws.
• Refrain from private conversation while in the council chamber that
interrupts the proceedings of the council.
• Refrain from the use of offensive words,threats of violence,or other
objectionable language in or against the council or against any member.
• Limit speech to subject of current debate.
• Abide by time limits for speaking.
More modern policies on decorum may also emphasize:
• Refraining from the use of cell phones or other personal electronic devices
during meetings. In addition to being a decorum problem,this may also
create problems under the Open Meeting Law.
• Allowing the use of cameras,video,and other recording devices,but
requiring them to be used in an unobtrusive manner that does not disrupt or
delay the meeting.
Rules of decorum are often also established to govern the conduct of the public
when participating in meetings.
B. Enforcing decorum among
councilmembers
Council meetings on important community issues may become contentious very
quickly.Establishing rules of decorum before a controversy arises can prevent
meetings from becoming unproductive due to conflict.On occasion,however,
members of the council may not follow the rules.On these occasions,the
mayor's role as the meeting's presiding officer is particularly important.
See Minnesota Mayors Bylaws may vary from city to city.Generally,however,when councilmembers
Association Sample City
Council Bylaws. violate rules of order and decorum,the presidingofficer is authorized to:
• Not recognize a breaching councilmember's request to speak,limiting their
role in debate until decorum is observed.
• Declare the councilmember's actions out of order.
• Order removal from the council chambers by law enforcement until the
Mim aom councilmember agrees to abide by council rules of decorum.
Maym
Assoo6tion
MINNESOTA • HANDBOOK
In addition, if provided in the council's policy,generally any councilmember
(including the mayor),may make a motion to censure a councilmember for
conduct that breaches decorum.A censure often takes the form of a resolution
adopted by council vote noting the councilmember's conduct and expressing
disapproval of such conduct.
Minn.scat.§609.72. State law also prohibits persons, including councilmembers,from disturbing
public meetings,through fighting or threatening words and conduct.
Councilmembers who engage in this unlawful conduct may be charged with a
misdemeanor.
Minnesota
Mayors
Association
MINNESOTA De
IV. Mayor-council relationship
Because the mayors of statutory cities lack significant individual authority,the
key to a successful mayor-council relationship often lies in recognizing the
mayor's role(and its limits)and working from there to build productive
partnerships with fellow councilmembers.
A. Meetings and the mayor-council
relationship
Because of the Minnesota Open Meeting Law,most interaction between mayor
and council will occur in public during an open meeting where the mayor is the
See chapter 3. presiding officer.As a result,meeting management and meeting decorum are
key to developing a successful mayor-council relationship. Some keys to
success in this area include:
• Presiding officers should not dominate discussion. In most cities,the
mayor participates equally in council meetings.Generally the mayor
has the same right as any other councilmember to discuss issues,make
and second motions,and vote. Since the mayor is also a presiding
officer at meetings,this can create a difficult situation on issues where
the mayor may have strong views.In recognition of their dual role as
See Minnesota Mayors participant and meeting facilitator,mayors may choose to limit their
Association Sample City comments or save their comments until all other members have had a
Council Bylaws.
chance to voice their views.However,this is not a legal requirement,
just common practice. If the mayor has particularly strong views on an
issue,some city policies on meeting management allow the mayor to
step aside as presiding officer and for the appointment of a temporary
presiding officer.
• Presiding officers should allow all participants to speak and present
their views. The role of the presiding officer is to facilitate the
discussion.Most city policies on meeting management prohibit
speaking out of turn,and require the presiding officer to recognize a
councilmember prior to speaking. The reason for this requirement is to
prevent the inevitable disorder and confusion of many voices speaking
at once. It also greatly simplifies the work of the minute taker and
allows an accurate record to be created.Mayors should not use this
authority to silence political opponents or suppress views with which
the mayor does not agree.
• Presiding officers should know and enforce applicable city policies on
meeting management and/or rules of procedure. Successful meetings
require leadership to keep participants on task. Most city policies on
meeting management specify expected conduct for meetings that is
essential to an organized meeting. For example,time limits on
comments by participants,procedures for being recognized by the
presiding officer before speaking, limits on public participation,formal
language for making and amending motions, and procedures for voting.
If the presiding officer is not familiar with or does not enforce the city
policies or rules,often there is little recourse for other meeting
®
Minnesota
Mparticipants to enforce the rules themselves.This may create frustration,
Mayo
delay or unduly extend meetings, lead to confusion over actions taken,
and potentially create embarrassment for the council as a whole.
MINNESOTA MAYORS HANDBOOK
• Presiding officers should model and enforce decorum. The mayor is
in a unique position,as the presiding officer at city council meetings,to
model meeting decorum,civility, and respect.The mayor should
conduct meetings in a manner that encourages open discussion of issues
and honest differences of opinion,without the use of personal attacks,
name calling or scapegoating.Civility and decorum,perhaps more than
any other factor—both inside meetings and outside–is the key to
building successful relationships with council.
B. Keys to team building success
Many observers of government have linked city success with the ability of the
mayor and council to work together as a team.Both inside meetings and during
one-to-one interactions,mayors can promote a team model of government by:
• Sharing information freely. Mayors sometimes play a unique role for
the city in meeting with citizens,business representatives,and other
governmental officials and dignitaries. In addition,mayors may have
unique duties as meeting leaders, agenda setters,emergency managers,
and public spokespersons,depending on each city's policies.As a
result,mayors often obtain vital information related to the city's
operations before other councilmembers and even city staff.Timely
sharing of information equally with all stakeholders and in an inclusive
manner is a key to successful team building.It is important to stress,
however,that information should only be shared in a manner that
complies with all legal requirements such as the Minnesota Open
Meeting Law.
• Communicating honestly. On occasion,bad news is both the hardest
news to convey and the most vital.Not everything in your city will be a
total success.While there may be a temptation to resolve a short-term
dilemma by providing only partial information to fellow
councilmembers,this approach can have long-term and long-lasting
negative effects.Failing to communicate honestly erodes trust and may
damage the city council's ability to make collaborative decisions.
• Working collaboratively to establish visions,goals,and priorities.
When priorities and policies are set collaboratively they often have
greater stakeholder buy-in.Knowing that their position was at least
considered often goes a long way in satisfying councilmembers whose
positions ultimately do not prevail.
®Minnesota
da
Assodarion
MINNESOTA MAYORS •
A. Open Meeting Law
Minn.Stat.§ 13D.01,suba.1. With only a few exceptions, all city council meetings or gatherings must be
open to the public.This rule applies not only to meetings of council,but
meetings of any committee or subcommittee of council,as well as any board,
department,or commission formed under the city's authority.
Moberg v.Indep.Soh.Dist No. The law does not define the term"meeting."The Minnesota Supreme Court,
281, N. (Minn.
1983).St.Cloud Newspapers, however,has ruled that under the Open Meeting Law,meetings are gatherings
Inc.v.Dist.742 Community where a quorum or more of the council or other governing body,or of a
1983).
Schools,332 N.w.2d 1(Minn. committee, board,department, or commission of the city council or other
governing body are present,and at which the members intentionally discuss,
decide,or receive information as a group on issues relating to the official
business of that body.
The Open Meeting Law does not generally apply in situations where less than a
quorum of the council is involved.However, serial meetings in groups of less
than a quorum that are held in order to avoid the requirements of the Open
Meeting Law may be found to violate the law,depending on the specific facts.
Minn.Stat.§412.191,suba.2. As a result,while a mayor can call special meetings,in order to avoid the
appearance of a serial meeting,the mayor shouldn't call a special meeting by
directly contacting other councilmembers.
In most cities,the mayor has the authority to lead meetings.Therefore,it's
critical that the mayor be familiar with the Open Meeting Law and its
exceptions.Again,meetings of council must generally be open.In the
following cases,however,the council must close a meeting:
Minn.Stat.§ 13D.05,suba. a Meetings for preliminary consideration of allegations or charges against an
2(b).Minn.Stat.§13.43,suba.
2(4). individual subject to the public body's authority(unless the individual
wants the meeting held open).
Minn.Stat.§13D.05,suba.2. . portions of meetings at which any of the following data is discussed:
o Data that would identify alleged victims or reporters of criminal sexual
conduct,domestic abuse,or maltreatment of minors or vulnerable
adults.
o Internal affairs data relating to allegations of law enforcement
personnel misconduct or active law enforcement investigative data.
o Educational data,health data,medical data,welfare data,or mental
health data that are non-public data.
o An individual's medical records governed by the Minnesota Health
Records Act.
And in the following cases,the council may close the meeting:
Minn.Stat.§13D.03.Minn. • Meetings to consider strategies for labor negotiations.
Stat.§13D.01,subd.3.
Minn.Stat.§ 13D.05,suba.3. 0 Meetings to evaluate the performance of an individual subject to the public
Minn.Stat.§ 13D.01,suba.3. body's authority(unless the individual wants the meeting held open).
®Minnesota
a.
Mayors
Association
MINNESOTA MAYORs HANDBOOK
Minn.Stat.§13D.05,subd.3. • Meetings between council and its attorney to discuss active,threatened,or
Prior Lake American v.Mader, pending litigation when the balancing of the purposes served by the
642 x.w.2d 729(Minn.2002). attorney-client privilege against those served by the Open Meeting Law
dictates the need for absolute confidentiality.
Minn.Stat.§13D.05,subd.3. • Meetings to determine the asking price for real or personal property to be
sold,review confidential or protected nonpublic appraisal data,or
develop/consider offers or counteroffers for the purchase or sale of
property.
Minn.Stat.§13D.05,subd.3. • Meetings to receive security briefing and reports,to discuss issues related
to security systems,to discuss emergency response procedures,and to
discuss security deficiencies in or recommendations regarding public
services, infrastructure,and facilities.
Minn.Stat.§ 13D.05,subd. i Except for meetings closed under the attorney-client privilege,all closed
(d). meetings must be electronically recorded.
Ma
Asso�bation
Template Code of Conduct
.01. Purpose.
The city council of the City of determines that a code of conduct for its members, as well as
the members of the various boards and commissions of the City of , is essential for the
public affairs of the city. By eliminating conflicts of interest and providing standards for conduct
in city matters, the city council hopes to promote the faith and confidence of the citizens of
in their government and to encourage its citizens to serve on its council and commissions.
.02. Standards of Conduct.
Subd. 1. No member of the city council or a city board or commission may knowingly:
a. Violate the open meeting law.
b. Participate in a matter that affects the person's financial interests or those of a business
with which the person is associated, unless the effect on the person or business is no greater
than on other members of the same business classification, profession, or occupation.
c. Use the person's public position to secure special privileges or exemptions for the person
or for others.
d. Use the person's public position to solicit personal gifts or favors.
e. Use the person's public position for personal gain.
f. Except as specifically permitted pursuant to Minn. Stat. 471.895, accept or receive any gift
of substance, whether in the form of money, services, loan, travel, entertainment,
hospitality, promise, or any other form, under circumstances in which it could be
reasonably expected to influence the person, the person's performance of official action, or
be intended as a reward for the person's official action.
g. Disclose to the public, or use for the person's or another person's personal gain,
information that was gained by reason of the person's public position if the information
was not public data or was discussed at a closed session of the city council.
h. Disclose information that was received, discussed, or decided in conference with the city's
legal counsel that is protected by the attorney-client privilege unless a majority of the city
council has authorized the disclosure.
i. Represent private interests before the city council or any city committee, board,
commission or agency. (optional)
Subd. 2. Except as prohibited by the provisions of Minn. Stat Sec. 471.87, there is no violation of
subdivision 1 b. of this section for a matter that comes before the council, board, or commission if
the member of the council, board, or commission publicly discloses the circumstances that would
violate these standards and refrains from participating in the discussion and vote on the matter.
Nothing herein shall be construed to prohibit a contract with a member of the city council under
the circumstances described under Minn. Stat. Sec. 471.88, if proper statutory procedures are
followed.
Created by the League of Minnesota Cities Ethics Advisory Panel October 2009
r r
.03. Complaint, Hearing.
Any person may file a written complaint with the city clerk alleging a violation of the standards of
conduct in section .02. The complaint must contain supporting facts for the allegation. The city
council may hold a hearing after receiving the written complaint or upon the council's own
volition. A hearing must be held only if the city council determines (1) upon advice of the city
attorney, designee, or other attorney appointed by the council, that the factual allegations state a
sufficient claim of a violation of these standards or rise to the level of a legally-recognized conflict
of interest, and (2) that the complaint has been lodged in good faith and not for impermissible
purposes such as delay. The city council's determination must be made within 30 days of the filing
of the allegation with the city clerk. If the council determines that there is an adequate justification
for holding a hearing, the hearing must be held within 30 days of the city council's determination.
At the hearing, the person accused must have the opportunity to be heard. If after the hearing,the
council finds that a violation of a standard has occurred or does exist, the council may censure the
person, refer the matter for criminal prosecution, request an official not to participate in a decision,
or remove an appointed member of an advisory board or commission from office.
Created by the League of Minnesota Cities Ethics Advisory Panel October 2009
city 0
golden MEMORANDUM
va-Rey Planning Department
763-593-8095/763-593-8109(fax)
Executive Summary
Golden Valley Council/Manager Meeting
August 21, 2014
Agenda Item
3. Moratorium on Recycling Centers
Prepared By
Jason Zimmerman, City Planner
Summary
At the July 1 City Council meeting a six month moratorium was approved that prohibited the
establishment of any recycling centers in the Light Industrial and Industrial Zoning Districts. The
Planning Commission discussed possible revisions to the zoning code at its meeting on July 28
and suggested the following considerations:
1. Revise the way in which recycling centers are defined so that there are at least two
categories: "low intensity" and "high intensity" uses, for example - and allow the less intense
use to locate in the Light Industrial Zoning District and restrict the more intense use to the
Industrial Zoning District. One potential distinction may be facilities that collect typical
household recyclable items and facilities that accept materials collected from commercial or
industrial uses.
2. Potentially define a minimum distance that any facilities must keep from single family uses.
3. Limit not only the types of recycling uses, but also clearly describe how operations may take
place on site. One example would be to prohibit outdoor storage of materials and require all
operations to take place indoors.
Attachments
• Unapproved Planning Commission Minutes dated July 28, 2014 (2 pages)
• Memo to the Planning Commission dated July 28, 2014 (2 pages)
• Zoning Map (1 page)
Minutes of the Golden Valley Planning Commission
July 28, 2014
Page 9
roposals' Baker said it would be ha to make a decision if there aren't any
quirements. Kluchka said he want good math to use as a guideline, but h§Aants the
a 'lity to have discretion. Zimmerma said he doesn't think state statutes. w for
dis etion, but additional requireme s could be put in the Zoning Cod ;'' aldhauser
adde hat the more flexibility in the equirements, the more uncert� ty property owners
have a t what they own, and if th y are able to subdivide their...roperty. She said she
would pre r to use a set number, r her than the lot depth, to., termine the rear yard
setback. Ba said he also likes th idea of a fixed numbe..x- or the rear yard setback
requirement. '
Baker said he woul a to see mor analysis of pr , erties that required the minimum
lot width to be maintain for a dist a ce of 300/6 the lot. He said he also likes the
requirement that remove t area fr m the tot 'square footage that doesn't have the
minimum required width. KI ka q stione ",f that would limit the buildable area. He
said he would like an opinion t Cit .'Attorney about allowing the Planning
Commission to have more discre wly n reviewing subdivision applications, or
possibly not having a public hearini he Planning Commission doesn't have a choice
about recommending approval or d i Grimesstatedthat state statute requires cities
to have the public hearing proce
The consensus of the Planning Co ission w to recommend that new lots not only
meet the minimum width (8. feet) a he front set k line (35 feet in the R-1 zoning
district), but maintain that, idth con uously to a po 70 feet into the lot. Also, to
modify the way in whic ear yard s backs are calcul d in the R-1 and R-2 zoning
districts so that they e a set distan a of 25 feet instea a percentage of the total lot
depth.
f
hort Recess--
. �
6. Rep, on Meetings of the ousing and Redevelopment Au rity, City
Co ncil, Board of Zoning A peals and other Meetings
Wald user gave an update on a B ineau meeting she attended.
J
chka gave an update on the rece t Community Center Task Force meeting that he
ttended.
7. Other Business
• Discussion Regarding Recycling Centers
Zimmerman stated that the SIFCO site on Winnetka Avenue was being considered as a
possible location for a recycling center use. Staff realized that the Zoning Code
definition of a recycling center includes crushing, shredding, baling or compacting
Minutes of the Golden Valley Planning Commission
July 28, 2014
Page 10
materials such as auto bodies and scrap metal. The City Council has asked the
Planning Commission to discuss the need to update both the definition of recycling
centers, and the appropriateness of recycling centers as a permitted use in the Light
Industrial and Industrial Zoning Districts.
Kluchka asked if the Council is considering redeveloping that area. Zimmerman said
redeveloping that area is a discussion the Council wants to have. They also want to
determine what types of recycling centers to allow. Grimes added that he is concerned
about industrial properties that are located close to Single Family Residential properties.
Baker said he is convinced that there should be more than one category for recycling.
He said he also wants to be clear about what the City wants, and doesn't want. He
asked if the Council's mostly concerned about noise. Zimmerman said the concern is
noise, storage and the increased number of large trucks. Waldhauser agreed it would
be helpful to have defined categories. Grimes suggested requiring there to be a
minimum distance from Single Family residential properties.
The consensus of the Planning Commission was to create at least two categories for
recycling centers, one for low intensity typical household recyclable items, and one for
high intensity for more commercial or industrial items. The less intense uses could
potentially be allowed in the Light Industrial zoning district and the more intense uses
could be allowed in the Industrial zoning district. The Commission also recommended
defining a minimum distance that a recycling center must be from Single Family
residential properties, and to consider the possibility of allowing recycling centers with a
Conditional Use Permit.
• Council Liaiso Report
o report was given.
8. djournment
The meetin as adjour ed at 10:10
Chart D. Segelbau Secretary Lisa Wittman, Administrative Assistant
city o go1dcnO4,t ^ artment
valley Planning Department
763-593-8095/763-593-8109(fax)
Date: July 28, 2014
To: Planning Commission
From: Jason Zimmerman, City Planner
Subject: Discussion of Zoning Code Text Amendments– Recycling Centers
Background
The City Council has directed Staff to bring to the attention of the Planning Commission the
possible need to update both the definition of Recycling Centers in the Zoning Code and the
reconsideration of the appropriateness of Recycling Centers as permitted uses within the Light
Industrial and Industrial Zoning Districts.
Recycling Centers are defined in Section 11.03, Subd. 79 as "Any area or structure, whether
privately or publicly owned and operated, that engages in recycling or reclamation of metals,
paper, or other materials including crushing, shredding, baling or compacting materials such as
auto bodies, scrap metal, etc."
In Section 11.35, Subd. 3(G) Recycling Centers are listed as permitted uses, "including the recycling
of metals and other materials" without any additional quantitative or qualitative requirements or
restrictions. The Council expressed concern that some types of high intensity recycling centers
might be allowed to locate in areas of close proximity to residential uses and/or could conduct
some of their recycling operations outdoors.
Research
Staff investigated the definitions and requirements of Recycling Centers in many other
communities and was able to generalize the findings in a way that may offer suggestions as to how
Golden Valley could rewrite their zoning ordinance if they so choose.
First, many cities separate out the broader category of Recycling Centers into at least two sub-
categories—often defined as "low" vs. "high" intensity or "minor" vs. "major" facilities. Typical use
of the low intensity or minor recycling facility is for household goods such as bottles, cans, plastics,
newspapers, etc. High, or major, recycling facilities are often targeted for materials from
commercial or industrial uses.
Some zoning codes also separately distinguish the recycling of"green" materials such as yard waste
and compost.
Second, there are occasionally limits placed on the location of the Recycling Center with respect to
any other Recycling Center in the City and/or in relation to residential properties–especially single
family homes.
Finally, most descriptions include details about how operations are to be conducted, including
requirements that dumping and sorting take place indoors,the prohibition on outdoor storage of
materials, and limits as to the types/intensities of operations that may be conducted on-site
(prohibiting the crushing of cars, for example).
Current Issues
This discussion was generated by the interest expressed in the former SIFCO site (2430 Winnetka
Avenue North) by a scrap metal recycler. Even though the potential owner would conduct their site
operations indoors and would not recycle automobiles, the realization that more intense uses—
including the crushing of cars or the shredding of metals—are currently allowed on this site
prompted the City Council to pass a six month moratorium on any recycling centers until the zoning
issues around them could be examined.
Recommendation
Staff has been asked to report back to the City Council at the August Council/Manager meeting.
Staff recommends the Planning Commission look at the following three items and offer guidance:
1. Should Golden Valley continue to define one type of Recycling Center or are two or more
categories more appropriate? In which zoning districts should they be allowed? Should they be
permitted uses or conditional uses?
2. What limits should be considered for the location of any type of Recycling Center, if any?
Distance from residential areas? Distance from other Recycling Centers?
3. What operational requirements or prohibitions should be considered? Outdoor vs. indoor
storage of materials? Metal shredding? Car crushing? Etc.
Attachments
Zoning Map (1 page)
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golden MEMORANDUM
valley Planning Department
artment
763-593-8095/763-593-8109(fax)
Executive Summary
Golden Valley Council/Manager Meeting
August 21, 2014
Agenda Item
4. Lot Depth and Lot Shape
Prepared By
Jason Zimmerman, City Planner
Summary
At the July 28 Planning Commission meeting, the Commission continued the discussion
surrounding lot subdivision and addressing lot irregularity. Staff presented four potential
additional requirements that would impact both the "bulk" of new lots as well as the shape.
After reviewing a number of past subdivisions and how they would have (or would not have)
been impacted by these requirements had they been in place, the Planning Commission made
two suggestions for the City Council to consider:
1. Require that new lots not only meet the minimum width (80 feet) at the front setback line
(35 feet in the R-1 Zoning District), but maintain that width continuously to a point 70 feet
into the lot.
2. Modify the way in which rear setbacks are calculated in the R-1 and R-2 Zoning Districts so
that they are a set distance (25 feet was recommended) instead of a percentage of the total
lot depth.
Attachments
• Unapproved Planning Commission Minutes dated July 28, 2014 (2 pages)
• Memo to the Planning Commission dated July 28, 2014 (3 pages)
Minutes of the Golden Valley Planning Commission
July 28, 2014
Page 8
Findings:
1. oth lots of the proposed subdi sion meet the requirements of the R-1 Single Family
Zoning
2. The City Engine ds that the R is are builda
3. The addition of the ne will of place ai a strain on City utility systems.
Conditions:
1. The City Attorney willfete"imine f a title 'ew is necessary prior to approval of the final
plat. '. '
3. The City En ' eer's memorand Im, dated July 7, 2 shall become part of this
appro
4. A pplicable City permits shal Abe obtained prior to the development of the new lots.
5. Continued Discussion Regarding Lot Depth and Shape
Zimmerman noted that this is part of the on-going discussion about lot width, depth and
shape. He explained that the Zoning Code defines lot depth as the mean horizontal
distance between the front (street) line and the rear lot line. He stated that lots are not
required to be a certain depth; however, the rear yard setback requirement in the R-1
and R-2 zoning districts is determined using the lot depth (20% of lot depth). He stated
that Golden Valley's Subdivision Code uses the shortest distance between the front and
rear lot lines when calculating lot depth. He added that, similar to lot width, lot depth is
difficult to calculate for unusually shaped lots.
He discussed other communities' lot depth requirements, and noted that approximately
half of the surrounding communities he researched use the average depth, and the
other half use the shortest distance between the front and rear lot lines. He stated that
for cities using the average depth calculation, they define the rear yard setback as a set
distance, typically 25 feet, rather than a percentage. Using this method removes the
complication of calculating the average depth.
Zimmerman next discussed lot shape. He showed the Commissioners several
examples of past subdivision proposals, and explained four different tests he did on
each of the examples. The first the test requires the minimum lot width to be maintained
for a distance of 30% of the lot, the second test removes lot area from the total square
footage that doesn't have the minimum required width, the third test requires a minimum
width at the midpoint of the lot, and the fourth test is to use an "irregularity test" of
p2/A = X with a cutoff of 22 being too irregular.
Segelbaum asked if the current Subdivision Code permits variances. Grimes said the
Subdivision Code states that the requirements of the Zoning Code need to be met when
subdividing property.
Kluchka asked if a recommendation can be made stating that the Planning Commission
would like to have discretion, and not just rely on math, when reviewing subdivision
Minutes of the Golden Valley Planning Commission
July 28, 2014
Page 9
proposals. Baker said it would be hard to make a decision if there aren't any
requirements. Kluchka said he wants good math to use as a guideline, but he wants the
ability to have discretion. Zimmerman said he doesn't think state statutes allow for
discretion, but additional requirements could be put in the Zoning Code. Waldhauser
added that the more flexibility in the requirements, the more uncertainty property owners
have about what they own, and if they are able to subdivide their property. She said she
would prefer to use a set number, rather than the lot depth, to determine the rear yard
setback. Baker said he also likes the idea of a fixed number for the rear yard setback
requirement.
Baker said he would like to see more analysis of properties that required the minimum
lot width to be maintained for a distance of 30% of the lot. He said he also likes the
requirement that removes lot area from the total square footage.that doesn't have the
minimum required width. Kluchka questioned if that would limit the buildable area. He
said he would like an opinion from the City Attorney about allowing the Planning
Commission to have more discretion when reviewing subdivision applications, or
possibly not having a public hearing if the Planning Commission doesn't have a choice
about recommending approval or denial. Grimes stated that state statute requires cities
to have the public hearing process.
The consensus of the Planning Commission was to recommend that new lots not only
meet the minimum width (80 feet) at the front setback line (35 feet in the R-1 zoning
district), but maintain that width continuously to a point 70 feet into the lot. Also, to
modify the way in which rear yard setbacks are calculated in the R-1 and R-2 zoning
districts so that they are a set distance of 25 feet instead of a percentage of the total lot
depth.
--Short Recess--
6. Reports on Meetins of the Housing and Redevelopment Authority, City
ouncil, Board of ning Appeals and other Meetings
Waldhauser ve an updat on a Bottineau meetin ,sWe attended.
Kluchka gave an u ate on the recent 9-0unityCenter Task Force meeting that he
attended.
7. Other Business,,e
• Discus`sion Reg rding Rec g Centers
Zimmerman stated that th SIFCO site on etka Avenue was being considered as a
possible location for a rec cling center use. Sta ealized that the Zoning Code
dei iition of a recycling c ' ter includes crushing, s ding, baling or compacting
city 0 n.
golden MEMORANDUM
��.
1l Planning Department
763-593-8095/763-593-8109(fax)
Date: July 28, 2014
To: Planning Commission
From: Jason Zimmerman, City Planner
Subject: Potential Modifications to Lot Requirements–Lot Depth and Lot Shape
Background
At the June 23 Planning Commission meeting, the Commission recommended approval of a revised
definition of lot width within the Zoning Code. A brief discussion of various additional methods of
regulating lot shape were also discussed. Staff was asked to evaluate a number of recent
subdivisions through the lenses of these various methods to determine if they would have met the
standards and therefore have been recommended for approval. Diagrams and evaluations will be a
part of the Staff presentation.
In addition, Staff is suggesting the calculation of lot depth be revisited since the current definition—
which relies upon an average measurement—is subject to many of the same issues raised by the
calculation of lot width under the old definition.
Staff has been asked to summarize the Planning Commission's discussion at the August 21
Council/Manager meeting and look for direction from the City Council as to possible zoning text
amendments.
Summary of Lot Depth Issue
Lot depth is currently defined within the Zoning Code as "the mean horizontal distance between
the front (street) line and the rear lot line." As with lot width, unusually shaped lots provide
challenges for determining average lengths. Although lot depth is not used to determine if a
subdivision meets the minimum requirements, it is used to determine the rear yard setback in the
R-1 and R-2 zoning districts (20%of the lot depth). In all other zoning districts, the rear yard setback
is a set distance and is not dependent on the calculated lot depth.
To address this issue, Staff recommends one of two options: (a) revise the definition of lot depth so
that is does not use a calculation of the mean, or (b) revise the rear yard setbacks in the R-1 and R-
2 zoning districts so that they do not rely on the calculated lot depth but are a set distance, similar
to other zoning districts in Golden Valley.
A brief survey shows that roughly half of the of surrounding communities use a mean distance to
determine lot depth while the other half use the shortest distance between the front and rear lot
lines.
Using the shortest distance to determine lot depth while still utilizing the 20% rule for determining
rear yard setbacks would potentially require slightly smaller setbacks for some lots compared to
the existing mean lot depth method of calculation.
Of those communities that utilize the mean distance for determining lot depth, most still use a set
distance for their rear yard setbacks (option (b) above).
Summary of Lot Shape Issue
The City Council and the Planning Commission have both expressed some concern regarding the
creation of lots that fail to provide sufficient width in the portion of a lot where a home is most
likely to be constructed. In addition,there is concern over lots that deviate to far from what might
be considered a "regular" shaped lot.
Staff has found three potential methods of measurement that could be added to the current lot
width requirements in an attempt to ensure sufficient width in a new subdivision, as well as one
test that could be applied to screen out lots deemed to be "too irregular."
The first option is to require that the lot width measured at the front yard setback be maintained
continuously for a certain percentage of the lot depth. This would allow for some variation in the
shape of the lot but would ensure that a targeted area would have enough width to comfortably
construct a home. St. Louis Park uses this approaches and requires the minimum lot width be
maintained continuously for 30% of the lot depth. Note that this requires that lot depth be clearly
defined and easy to calculate as it would be a critical figure in determining if a subdivision meets all
lot requirements.
A second potential option allows lots to have portions that are narrower than the required lot
width, but these portions are not counted towards the required minimum lot area when evaluating
a potential subdivision. As pointed out in the option above, this would allow for some portions of a
lot to narrow while still requiring a majority of the lot to meet the minimum width requirement.
Because the narrower portions would not count towards the minimum lot area, in these cases this
option would, in effect, create slightly larger lots when subdivision occurred.
Finally, a third option utilizes the lot "midpoint" and requires that the minimum lot width be met at
this point as well as at the front setback line.This ensures enough width at two places in the lot,
though it allows for narrowing at other points.
Any of these three potential variations would be generally consistent with how minimum lot width
has been interpreted in the past 24 years, but would also ensure some additional width would be
required in order to receive subdivision approval.
Addressing the stated concern over "irregular" lots, Staff found a formula that mathematically
evaluates a proposed lot for its level of irregularity prior to examining the other minimum lot width
and lot area requirements.
Under this evaluation, the following formula is used:
Pz/A =X
where P is the proposed lot perimeter and A is the proposed lot area. If the result is 22.0 or greater
for any proposed lot, the proposed subdivision is not allowed. If the result is less than 22.0, the
proposed lots are then evaluated further to see if they meet the other subdivision requirements.
Using this formula, a perfectly square lot would have a result of 16. A rectangular lot with a 2:1
ratio in length to width would have a result of 18. The more irregular the shape of a lot becomes,
the higher the associated output number.
Recommendation
Staff recommends the Planning Commission evaluate the following and offer feedback for the
August 21 Council/Manager discussion:
1. A method for determining lot depth and how it should relate to rear yard setbacks.
2. A preference (if any) for additional lot width/lot shape requirements that could be utilized as
part of the subdivision approval process.
Ci 0 44:
go I
e nil MEMORANDUM
IT T11%
V iallicy Finance Deartment
r
763-593-8013/763-593-8109(fax)
Executive Summary
Golden Valley Council/Manager Meeting
August 21, 2014
Agenda Item
5. Biennial 2015-2016 Proposed General Fund Budget
Prepared By
Sue Virnig, Finance Director
Summary
At the August 21 Council/Manager meeting, the Council will be reviewing the following divisions:
-Physical Development Administration (035)
-Engineering (036)
-Street Maintenance (037)
-Park Maintenance (067)
-Building Maintenance (011)
-Community Centers (065)
-Park and Recreation (066)
-Recreation Programs (068)
-CIP (2015; 2016)
Equipment
Buildings
Parks
-General Fund Revenue/Expenditures
-General Fund - Fund Balance
-Estimated Tax Impact
Wrap-up for Presentation
Appropriate staff will be in attendance to discuss the proposed budgets for these divisions and
answer questions from the Council.
Attachments
0 Bring your Biennial 2015-2016 Proposed General Fund Budget (previously distributed)
city 0
140 1**1
goldcn MEMORANDUM
valley City Administration/Council
763-593-8003/763-593-8109(fax)
Executive Summary
Golden Valley Council/Manager Meeting
August 21, 2014
Agenda Item
6. Board/Commission Vacancies
Prepared By
Thomas Burt, City Manager
Summary
Mayor Harris requested this item be placed on the agenda for discussion. Staff will provide an
updated list of board/commission vacancies and a list of applicants available to fill them. The list
will be distributed at the Council/Manager meeting.