IV.3. Minutes of the February 9, 2016 Work Session Proceedings
HOPKINS CITY COUNCIL
WORK SESSION PROCEEDINGS
FEBRUARY 9, 2016
CALL TO ORDER
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof a regular work session of the Hopkins City Council was
held on Tuesday, February 9, 2016 at 6:30 p.m. in the Raspberry Room at City Hall, 1010 First
Street South, Hopkins.
Mayor Cummings called the meeting to order with Council Member Campbell, Gadd, Halverson
and Kuznia attending. Staff present included City Manager Mornson, Recreation Director
Johnson, Building Official Kearney, Pavilion Manager Olson, Housing Inspector and Code
Enforcement Officer Page, Public Works Director Stadler, Parks and Streets Superintendent
Strachota and Housing Inspector Zasada.
HOPKINS YOUTH HOCKEY ASSOCIATION REQUEST
In addition to City staff, representatives present for the item were Hopkins Youth Hockey
Association President Bill Winter and Hopkins Youth Hockey Association Secretary Jill
Prohofsky. City Manager Mornson gave an overview of the refrigerant replacement issue at the
Hopkins Pavilion and the Hopkins Youth Hockey Associations (HYHA) proposed expansion of
the facility. Mr. Winter gave an overview of the HYHA proposal to update the current pavilion
to include an 8 -12 month sheet of ice, year round turf for activities such as lacrosse, baseball,
soccer and ultimate Frisbee, lobby remodel and fitness area addition. The proposed facility
updates would happen at the time of the required refrigerant replacement project. Ms. Prohofsky
gave an overview of possible grant funding, foundations, corporations, individual donations and
partners to fund the proposed expansion project. Ms. Prohofsky commented that the HYHA may
be able to raise $2 to $5 million of the necessary approximately $10 million to fund the Pavilion
project expansion. Mr. Winter commented that the HYHA will be meeting with the Hopkins
School district as a potential partner for the project.
Public Works Director Stadler commented that staff realizes the large initial capital investment
needed but supports the year round turf and new sheet of ice proposal. Staff commented that
year-round revenue will help offset additional operational costs. Ms. Prohofsky commented that
HYHA met with the Blaine Sports Center and will update the Hopkins staff and Council
regarding year-round revenue data.
There was Council discussion regarding the project and funding it without burdening the
Hopkins tax payers. Council commented on the importance of partners and stake holders for the
project. Council discussed the $9.7 million amount needed for the project. Pavilion Manager
Olson commented that a feasibility study was conducted and that the project was scaled down
from the original version to cut costs.
Mr. Winter gave an overview of how the HYHA operates and the average cost to play hockey in
Hopkins. Mr. Winter explained that costs increase as players get older and that the HYHA offers
scholarships to eligible players.
Pavilion Manager Olson discussed ongoing staffing and maintenance of the Pavilion. The 2016
budgeted revenues are $384,000. The projected increase in revenues for year-round turf rental is
$532,000. Current expenditures are budgeted at $380,000. The Pavilion would need to add 15
hours plus benefits for the Scheduling Coordinator. The overall increase in expenses would be
approximately $100,000. Mr. Olson commented that his figures do include utilities and that the
Pavilion would not have to purchase any additional ice rink resurfacers. Staff will continue to
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WORK SESSION PROCEEDINGS
FEBRUARY 9, 2016
refine the budget numbers but views the new facility operating similar to the current Pavilion.
The Pavilion’s central location and local demand for turf rental is a positive.
Recreation Director Johnson discussed youth programming and facility demand. Mr. Johnson
commented that there are declining numbers of participants in youth sports in Hopkins and it is
important that buildings have multigenerational and flexible use. Mr. Johnson commented that
the community needs to make sure they are comfortable with the costs, that it is important to
invest in what you have before you grow, that a project benefits the entire community and that
the building can sustain itself. Mr. Johnson stressed the importance of a solid business plan,
budgetary numbers and support from outside sources. Council asked about the reasons for the
decline in youth sports participation. Mr. Johnson explained that changing demographics plays a
role in the participation numbers.
Mayor Cummings thanked the HYHA for their generosity to the Hopkins community. Council
commented that they need to be very conscience of all the issues and do a comprehensive
analysis of any project. Council encouraged the HYHA to put a plan together that will address
the issues and what the HYHA hopes to accomplish.
Ms. Prohofsky commented on the importance of the Hopkins School District partnering with the
project. In 2015, there were 282 HYHA skaters and 65 skaters were from Hopkins. The number
of skaters have increased in the last 3 years. Recreation Director Johnson commented that the
trend is for school districts to be involved in hockey programs and that programs have to realize
there is no market for summer ice time. The biggest demand for turf rental is in the months of
March, April and May. Ms. Prohofsky commented that the HYHA would be needing ice time
through the month of March.
City Manager Mornson asked about the current square footage and staffing at the Pavilion. Mr.
Olson commented that three fulltime staff would be needed for the expanded facility and he will
provide updates on the square footage. There was discussion regarding options on financing
including loans from the Hopkins School District, City and HYHA. Mr. Mornson commented
that the City of Hopkins has limitations on borrowing. Mr. Mornson also discussed the
importance of communication regarding grant applications so that multiple area organizations
are not competing for the same dollars.
Pavilion Director Olson commented that staff will be working on bids in 2017 with construction
on the new boards, floor and ice plant scheduled for 2018.
The HYHA will keep city staff and Council updated on the Hopkins School District response to
the project, detailed operating costs and any additional information as the project moves forward.
INSPECTIONS DIVISION UPDATE
City Manager Mornson introduced the Inspection Division of the City of Hopkins. Building
Official Kearney introduced the department employees present for the item and gave an
overview of the other employees in the department. Mr. Kearney discussed the building permit
activity for the last 3 years and upcoming projects.
The Inspection Department staff gave an overview of the rental property inspections, license
application statistics and benefits of the rental license. The staff commented that rental license
HOPKINS CITY COUNCIL
WORK SESSION PROCEEDINGS
FEBRUARY 9, 2016
application fees in the City of Hopkins are low in comparison to the metropolitan area and
should be reevaluated. Ms. Zasada discussed the role of the inspector and what they are finding
in different properties.
City Manager Mornson asked about the complaint process. Ms. Page explained that most
complaints are initiated. Staff commented that it is important to work closely with other City
Departments regarding inspections, complaints and violations.
Mr. Kearney explained the rental license application process and discussed the Crime-Free Drug
Free Lease Addendum and required criminal background checks. Mr. Kearney commented that
these are tools for landlords to get quality renters and to enforce problem situations. Mr. Kearney
gave an overview of the nuisance/disorderly rental properties procedure and the Truth in
Housing policy. Ms. Page explained the spring and fall sweep inspection process, complaint
policy and resources available. Staff discussed the importance of educating and communicating
with landlords and tenants.
There was Council discussion regarding Truth in Housing and sewer and water services. Public
Works Director Stadler commented that there is a disclosure statement at the time of sale and
staff is looking at a potential policy allowing residents to be assessed for expensive sewer or
water services repairs.
Council thanked the Inspection Division for promoting safe housing and helping to make
Hopkins a community we all want to live in.
BURNES PARK IMPROVEMENT PLANNING
In addition to City staff, representatives present for the item were Roland Aberg, Project
Architect with Hart Howerton and Abbey Bryduck, Hopkins Park Board. Public Works Director
Stadler gave an overview of the Burnes Park concept for improvements. Mr. Stadler gave a
summary of the public outreach efforts, feedback and survey results. Mr. Stadler explained that
the Hopkins Park Reinvestment Plan will put together a program to refresh and upgrade each
park. Mr. Stadler gave an overview of the budget and capital improvements.
Mr. Aberg presented information regarding observations of current park users and conditions.
Mr. Aberg commented that a strategy is needed for replacement of ash trees in the park,
improved walkability and the need for a visible entry from the parking area. Mr. Stadler
commented that the City has a formal agreement with Zion Lutheran Church for use of parking
lot for Burnes Park parking.
Mr. Aberg gave an overview of the vision for the park. The concept plan would create a visible
entry, walkable loop, warming hut with multiple uses, restrooms, versatile terrace area for year
round use, splash pad, benches, ice skate trails, summer event area and night safety lighting. Mr.
Aberg commented that there have been discussion about the reuse of the old warming house for a
storage area. Mr. Aberg presented examples of splash pads and commented that they are still
investigating the different types and uses. Mr. Aberg discussed the basketball court with
adjustable height nets and the design for half court play with surrounding seating.
Mr. Aberg presented examples of play equipment for the 2-5 year old age group and costs.
Staff is continuing to investigate different structures. The current age 5 and older play structure
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WORK SESSION PROCEEDINGS
FEBRUARY 9, 2016
at Burnes Park will remain but the play area will have new edging installed.
Council Member Campbell asked about lighting, signage and parking. Mr. Aberg commented
that there would be downcast night and walkway lighting. Mr. Stadler commented that the south
end of the park will remain available for possible future parking and that informational parking
signage would be helpful for park users.
Council Member Kuznia liked the idea of an ice skate trail, splash pad fountain and adjustable
basketball nets.
Mayor Cummings commented that a “Little Library” book exchange box would be a good
addition to the park.
Council suggestions for the park also included bike trail wayfinding signage, a bike rack and
water bottle fillers on the drinking fountains. Council commented that it was a good idea to
improve the exterior appearance and repurpose the existing warming house as a
maintenance/storage shed.
City Manager Mornson asked about the status of the tennis courts. Mr. Stadler commented that
resurfacing of the tennis courts is scheduled on the 2018 Capital Improvement Plan.
There was Council discussion regarding water usage for the splash pad. Mr. Stadler commented
on the recreational water usage of splash pads and staff is still investigating products, designs
and water usage numbers. Mr. Stadler explained that it will be important to educate the
community on how a splash pad compares to other areas of water usage. Staff will discuss water
reuse, infiltration and discharge with the Nine Mile Watershed District and continue to look for
creative ways to deal with storm water run-off.
Mr. Stadler discussed a future public outreach meeting to present the refined park concept. Mr.
Aberg commented that the refined plan responds well to public requests for the park. Staff will
keep the Council updated as well as Zion Lutheran Church. The park project is scheduled to
begin in 2017.
UPDATES
Council Member Gadd will be attending the TwinWest Legislative Breakfast meeting on
Friday, February 12.
Mayor Cummings had a discussion with the ICA Foodshelf staff regarding zoning for
nonprofit organizations.
Mayor Cummings and Council Member Gadd attended the Ehlers meeting. Representatives
of the Doran Corporation spoke about The Moline project, commenting that the project will
have the best property amenities to date.
The speaker at the Regional Council of Mayors meeting was on the Emerald Ash Borer.
Council would like to have an Emerald Ash Borer discussion with staff at a future work
session.
HOPKINS CITY COUNCIL
WORK SESSION PROCEEDINGS
FEBRUARY 9, 2016
There was discussion regarding the use of social media.
City Manager Mornson commented that staff will be holding a neighborhood meeting on
Thursday, February 25 regarding the 2016 Street and Utility Assessment Hearing scheduled
for Monday, February 29.
There was Council discussion regarding the public hearing process at Council meetings and
having assessment payment option information available to the property owners.
Hopkins Business and Civic Association will be recognizing Gene Maxwell at the HBCA
Annual Meeting on February 23, 2016, 11:30 am at Hopkins Center for the Arts.
City Manager Mornson discussed a Hennepin County Cooperative Agreement to add a
sidewalk and reconstruct Blake Road.
Assistant City Manager Genellie was awarded the Excellence Award for Labor Relations.
Hopkins city staff were contacted by staff from North St. Paul regarding the reconstruction
project of the Mainstreet.
City Manager Mornson discussed the upcoming meeting agendas.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the City Council and upon a motion by Kuznia,
second by Campbell, the meeting was unanimously adjourned at 9:36 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Debbie Vold
ATTEST:
_______________________________ ______________________________
Molly Cummings, Mayor Amy Domeier, City Clerk