2024.09.17 Council Meeting Packet
4141 Douglas Drive North • Crystal, Minnesota 55422-1696
Tel: (763) 531-1000 • Fax: (763) 531-1188 • www.crystalmn.gov
Posted: Sept. 13, 2024
City Council Meeting Schedule
Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024
Time Meeting Location
6:30 p.m. Economic Development Authority (EDA) meeting Council Chambers/Zoom
6:40 p.m.
City Council work session to discuss:
1. Organics organized collection update.
2. Blue Line Extension update.
3. City Council liaison reports.
4. City manager monthly check-in.
5. Constituent issues.
6. New business.
7. Announcements.
Council Chambers/Zoom
7 p.m. City Council meeting Council Chambers/Zoom
Immediately following
the City Council meeting Continuation of City Council work session, if necessary. Council Chambers/Zoom
The public may attend the meetings via Zoom by connecting through one of the methods identified below.
Topic: EDA meeting, Crystal City Council work session, City Council meeting, and continuation of City Council work
session, if necessary.
Time: Sept. 17, 2024, 6:30 p.m., Central Time (US and Canada)
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AGENDA
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF CRYSTAL
• REGULAR MEETING •
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2024
6:30 P.M.
CRYSTAL CITY HALL
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1. Call to order *
2. Roll call *
3. Approval of minutes from September 3, 2024 regular meeting
4. Public hearing to consider a resolution approving the sale of 6110 Lakeland Ave. N. to
Great Buy Homes
5. Property status update *
6. Other business *
7. Adjournment *
*Items for which no materials are included in the packet
Page 1 of 3
Minutes of the
Economic Development Authority of the City of Crystal
Regular Meeting
Council Chambers
September 3, 2024
1. Call to Order
President Onesirosan called the meeting of the Economic Development Authority of the
City of Crystal (EDA) to order at 6:32 p.m.
2. Roll Call
Upon call of the roll, the following Commissioners were present: Jim Adams, John
Budziszewski, David Cummings, Traci Kamish, Therese Kiser and Taji Onesirosan.
The following staff were present: Executive Director Adam Bell, Deputy Executive
Director John Sutter and City Attorney Rachel Tierney.
3. Approval of Minutes
Moved by Commissioner Budziszewski (Kiser) to approve the minutes from the August
20, 2024 regular meeting. Motion carried.
4. Consider a resolution adopting a proposed 2025 HRA tax levy and EDA budget.
Staff presented the proposed 2025 HRA tax levy and EDA budget and requested board
approval of the resolution.
After discussion, moved by Commissioner Budziszewski (Kamish) to approve the
resolution adopting a proposed 2025 HRA tax levy and EDA budget.
5. Property status update
Staff provided the board with the updates and answered questions regarding the following
properties.:
• 4741 Welcome Ave. N. (previous EDA lot) - 4 unit residential building nearly
complete, owner moving into one of the units in late September, tenants will move
into the other units in late October.
Page 2 of 3
• 3401 Douglas Dr. N. (previous EDA lot) - 8 unit townhome development is being
sheetrocked now, completion anticipated this fall, developer just listed end units for
$415,000 and other units for $400,000
• 6203 36th Ave. N. - 8 unit townhome development is having a groundbreaking at 9:30
a.m. on Thursday, Sep. 5.
• Traffic signal cabinet wraps - getting final proofs from vendor this week to apply for
county permits and start fabrication, installation anticipated in early October
7. Other Business
There was no other business.
8. Adjournment
Moved by Commissioner Budziszewski (Kiser) to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried.
The meeting adjourned at 6:54 p.m.
Page 3 of 3
These minutes of the September 3, 2024 meeting of the Crystal Economic Development
Authority were approved by the Authority on September 17, 2024.
______________________________
Taji Onesirosan, President
ATTEST:
______________________________
Traci Kamish, Secretary
Page 1 of 3
___________________________________________________________________________________
FROM: Dan Olson, City Planner
TO: Adam R. Bell, Executive Director (for September 17 meeting)
DATE: September 11, 2024
RE: Public Hearing. Consider adoption of a resolution approving the sale of
6110 Lakeland Ave. N. to Great Buy Homes
___________________________________________________________________________
The EDA is asked to hold a public hearing and adopt a resolution approving the sale of 6110
Lakeland Avenue North to Great Buy Homes for a new single-family home with an attached
accessory dwelling unit (ADU). On August 20 the EDA gave tentative acceptance to Great
Buy’s proposal for the lot. Great Buy is a licensed builder with no enforcement actions who had
previously purchased the EDA lot at 3556 Major Avenue N.
Attached are Great Buy’s proposal form, site plan, and an illustration of the single -family home
with an ADU that would be built on the lot. Great Buy would purchase the lot for $112,500,
which is above the minimum price of $110,000. The builder does not yet have a buyer for the
home, which would be finished according to the table on page 3. The following is the only
change to the site and building plans since August 20:
• Front setback. The original site plan showed the home at 32’ from the front property
line, but Great Buy has increased it to 52’ feet to provide more space for ingress and
egress from the driveway.
Attachments:
A. Great Buy Homes proposal
B. Resolution
EDA Staff Report
Lot Sale – Public Hearing
6110 Lakeland Avenue North
Page 2 of 3
2024 aerial photos (pre-demolition)
Page 3 of 3
SUMMARY OF GREAT BUY HOMES’ PROPOSAL
Project Element Great Buy Homes
Purchase price
offered
$112,500
Type of
construction
Single-family home with an ADU
Owned or rented Owner occupied; (this is the builder’s intent but it is possible that
both units could be rented)
Building style 2 floor split entry
Size of each unit Home: 1,087 SF on the main level with 966 sq. ft on the lower
level and a 401 sq. ft. bonus room above the garage (total of
2,454 SF).
ADU: 1,095 sq. ft
Rooms Home: Kitchen, dining, living room and bedrooms on the main
level with a family room and bedrooms in lower level. 5 BR (2
BR on main and lower levels, 1 BR in bonus room and 2¾ BA
(full BA on main and bonus room, ¾ BA in lower level)
ADU: Kitchen, dining and living room, 2BR, 1 BA
Attached garage
size
Home: 3-stall garage (approximately 722 sq. ft)
ADU: 1-stall garage (approximately 242 sq. ft)
Basement Home: Split entry with a basement (finished)
ADU: None (slab on grade)
REQUESTED EDA ACTION: EDA adoption of a resolution approving the sale of the lot
at 6110 Lakeland Avenue North to Great Buy Homes.
If the lot sale is approved Great Buy is planning to start construction this year after
closing on the lot.
Attachment A
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF THE CITY OF CRYSTAL
HENNEPIN COUNTY
STATE OF MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION NO. 2024 - 03
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE SALE OF
6110 LAKELAND AVENUE NORTH
FOR CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW SINGLE-FAMILY DWELLING WITH AN ACCESSORY
DWELLING UNIT
WHEREAS, the Economic Development Authority of the City of Crystal (“the EDA”) is the
owner of 6110 Lakeland Avenue North (“the Property”), legally described as:
Lot 1, Block 1, Runquist Addition, Hennepin County, Minnesota.
WHEREAS, the EDA has solicited proposals from builders who desire to purchase the
Property from the EDA and construct thereon a new single-family dwelling with an accessory
dwelling unit (ADU); and
WHEREAS, the EDA has reviewed and accepted the proposal from Great Buy Homes.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the EDA authorizes the sale of the Propert y to
Great Buy Homes.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the sale shall be completed in accordance with the terms of
the Purchase and Development Agreement in substantially the form on file in City Hall, and
that the President and Executive Director are hereby authorized to sign said Agreement and
other documents required to complete the sale of the Property to Great Buy Homes.
Adopted this 17th day of September, 2024.
____________________________________
Taji Onesirosan, President
____________________________________
Adam R. Bell, Executive Director
Attachment B
4141 Douglas Drive North • Crystal, Minnesota 55422-1696
Tel: (763) 531-1000 • Fax: (763) 531-1188 • www.crystalmn.gov
Posted: Sept. 13, 2024
City Council Work Session Agenda
Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024
6:40 p.m.
Council Chambers/Zoom
Pursuant to due call and notice given in the manner prescribed by Section 3.01 of the City Charter,
the work session of the Crystal City Council was held on Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024, at ______ p.m. in
the Council Chambers at City Hall, 4141 Douglas Dr. N., Crystal, MN and via Zoom. The public may
attend the meeting via Zoom by connecting to it through one of the methods identified on the City
Council Meeting Schedule for Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024.
I. Attendance
Council members Staff
____ Cummings ____ Bell
____ Eidbo ____ Tierney
____ Kamish ____ Therres
____ Kiser ____ Elholm
____ Onesirosan ____ Larson
____ Adams ____ Revering
____ Budziszewski ____ Hubbard
____ Struve
____ Sutter
____ Serres
II. Agenda
The purpose of the work session is to discuss the following agenda items:
1. Organics organized collection update.
2. Blue Line Extension update.*
3. City Council liaison reports.*
4. City manager monthly check-in.
5. Constituent issues.*
6. New business.*
7. Announcements.*
III. Adjournment
The work session adjourned at ______ p.m.
* Denotes no documentation included in the packet.
Auxiliary aids are available upon request to individuals with disabilities by calling the city clerk at
(763) 531-1145 at least 96 hours in advance. TTY users may call Minnesota Relay at 711 or 1-800-627-3529.
ORGANICS RECYCLING
OVERVIEW
Crystal City Council
September 17, 2024
What Are
Organics
Food Scraps Non-recyclable Paper
What Are Organics
Range from
20% (Hennepin Co.)
40% (Statewide)
Organics recycling helps reach Minnesota’s
recycling goal of 75% by 2030
Organics is the Most Abundant
Item in Our Residential Trash
Why We Care
Compiled in the Kitchen
4
Collected Using Carts
What Is It Recycled Into?
6
Compost is used for:
Landscaping
Road Projects
Fertilizer
There are abundant local markets
What Happens to My Organics video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OAVA8eT-Zcw
Hennepin County Ordinance 13
Updated November 2018
“Cities shall make Curbside Collection of Organic Material available
by contracting for citywide service or by requiring Haulers to
provide the service.”
In place by January 1, 2022
All Residents Must Pay
“Minn. Stat. § 115A.93 subd. 3 (c) says that a
licensing authority shall prohibit collectors from
imposing a greater charge on residents who recycle
than on residents who do not recycle.”
Results
Rates set by haulers
Range from $3.50 - $7.50 a month
Haulers not committed to promoting the service
January 1, 2022 – January 1, 2024
746 residents signed up
January 1, 2024 – present
2,221 HRG residents signed up (10.6%)
Other Hennepin County cities with contracted service
(20-40% within first few years)
Results
Five additional collection trucks on streets per week
Each collecting a less than full load
How to Proceed
HRG board is proposing amending recycling
contract to add organics recycling service
Would start April 1, 2025
Cost would be $2.90 per household
Increases to $3.75 once we hit 11% of households
signed up
11
How to Proceed
Communications to residents about how to sign up
Postcards
Newsletters
Social Media
CCX
Kitchen collector pail distribution events
Cart roll out week of March 24, 2025
Continue offering the Drop-Off location
Continue annual compost pick up day
12
Questions...?
tim.pratt@brooklynpark.org
763-493-8120
13
CITY MANAGER
MONTHLY CHECK-IN - SEPTEMBER 2024
Objective 1 – Work with City Council to develop Long Range Vision for the continued
implementation of Council priorities:
• Continuing to work with council vision and priorities for the remainder of 2024 and through the
2025/2026 Budget
Objective 2 – Policy Facilitation – Implement the Longe Range Vision/Strategic Planning for
continued implementation of Council priorities:
• Thriving Business Community
o Working with legal counsel to amend Cannabis zoning regulations and for 2025
o Staff is continuing to assist with potential redevelopment opportunities and business
openings
• Strong Neighborhoods
o Continuing to work with businesses on THC/Cannabis sales compliance and current
licensing program
o Working with HRG on organized organic waste collection proposal – Proposed 4/2025
o Continuing to work on the Crystal Cove Aquatic Center project
o Working with residents/property owners to address code violations and traffic concerns
o Looking at additional security measures to address concerns at Becker Park
• Sound fiscal policies and practices
o Continuing to seek additional outside funding for projects
o Continuing to implement the 2024 Capital Program
o Processing implantation of Questica budget software
o Continuing 2025/2026 Budget Process. Fee Schedule and Long Term Plan will be
proposed soon.
o Hired new Accountant
• Welcoming and inclusive community
o Inclusion & Diversity Commission –
• The Commission is continuing to work on developing a Work Plan and
recruitment.
• Interviewed three additional candidates and will be full in Oct.
Objective 3 – Re-establish the Environmental Quality Commission with a clear and engaging
purpose and a sustainable future:
• Continuing to research other cities’ environmental commissions/efforts to develop future
Climate Action Plan
• Monitoring additional grant opportunities for Climate Action Plan development
• Name change to Sustainability Commission - ordinance will be in October
• New Commission will work on Climate Action planning, Gold Leaf Challenge Program action
items, and continued GreenStep Cities, in addition to existing former EQC work.
• Will begin to recruitment campaign
4141 Douglas Drive North • Crystal, Minnesota 55422-1696
Tel: (763) 531-1000 • Fax: (763) 531-1188 • www.crystalmn.gov
Objective 4 – Create an atmosphere of better teamwork, open communication, enhanced
employee performance, and where staff feel empowered to help make decisions:
• Reviewing job descriptions and updating roles/responsibilities
• Actively recruiting and interviewing new staff for open positions
o Accounting Manager – Hired.
o Temporary PT Election Assistant (2) – second employee starts soon.
o Information Technology System Administrator – Starts 9/23
o Recreation Manager – Hired
o Temporary Seasonal Staff - Ongoing
o Police Officers – Ongoing recruitment and interviewing
• Supporting staff wellness and continuing professional growth and development
• Connecting with neighboring city managers on various local issues
• Continuing participation in city manager leadership/peer group and metro and state
professional organizations
• Attending ICMA Conference 9/21-9/25
Page 1 of 2
4141 Douglas Drive North • Crystal, Minnesota 55422-1696
Tel: (763) 531-1000 • Fax: (763) 531-1188 • www.crystalmn.gov
Posted: Sept. 13, 2024
City Council Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024
7 p.m.
Council Chambers/Zoom Meeting
The city manager’s comments are bolded.
1. Call to Order, Roll Call, and Pledge of Allegiance
2. Approval of Agenda
The Council will consider approval of the agenda.
3. Proclamation
3.1 The Mayor will proclaim the week of Sept. 17 - 23, 2024 as Constitution Week in the City of
Crystal.
4. Consent Agenda
The Council will consider the following items, which are routine and non-controversial in nature,
in a single motion:
4.1 Approval of the minutes from the following meetings:
a. The City Council work session on Sept. 3, 2024.
b. The City Council meeting on Sept. 3, 2024.
4.2 Approval of the list of license applications submitted by the city clerk to the City Council, a list
that is on file in the office of the city clerk.
4.3 Adoption of a resolution authorizing an agreement to maintain stormwater pond areas at
6203 36th Ave. N. (Creek Edge Townhomes).
4.4 Adoption of a resolution authorizing a grant agreement with the Minnesota Department of
Public Safety for the 2024-2025 Multicultural Driver Education program.
4.5 Adoption of a resolution authorizing a grant agreement with the Minnesota Department of
Public Safety for the 2024-2025 Towards Zero Death Enforcement program.
4.6 Adoption of a resolution authorizing an equipment grant application to the Hennepin County
Youth Activities Grants to assist in replacing the mobile pool lift at Crystal Cove Aquatic
Center.
5. Open Forum
(The City Council appreciates hearing from citizens about items of concern and desires to set
aside time during each meeting for Open Forum. To provide ample opportunity for all, speaking
Page 2 of 2
time is limited to three minutes and topic discussion is limited to ten minutes. The Mayor may, as
presiding officer, extend the total time allowed for a topic. By rule, no action may be taken on
any item brought before the Council during Open Forum. The Council may place items discussed
during Open Forum onto subsequent council meeting agendas).
6. Regular Agenda
6.1 The Council will consider approval of disbursements over $25,000 submitted by the finance
department to the city council, a list that is on file in the office of the finance department.
Recommend approval of disbursements over $25,000.
6.2 The Council will consider a resolution regarding municipal consent for the Blue Line
Extension.
As discussed at the Sep. 3 work session, staff has prepared a draft resolution of disapproval
regarding municipal consent for the Blue Line Extension preliminary design plans. Staff
discussions with the project are ongoing and staff will provide an update and
recommendation to the Council at the Sep. 17 meeting.
7. Announcements
a. The next City Council meeting is Tuesday, Oct. 1, at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City
Hall.
b. A reveal and short presentation of the Barway Collins statue will be at Becker Park on
Saturday, Oct. 5 at 10 a.m.
c. City Council meetings and work sessions are open to the public. Current and previous
meetings are available for viewing and listening at www.crystalmn.gov.
8. Adjournment
*Denotes no supporting information included in the packet.
Have a great weekend; stay healthy. See you at Tuesday’s meeting.
4141 Douglas Drive North • Crystal, Minnesota 55422-1696
Tel: (763) 531-1000 • Fax: (763) 531-1188 •
PROCLAMATION
CONSTITUTION WEEK: SEPTEMBER 17 – 23, 2024
WHEREAS, September 17, 2024, marks the two hundred and thirty -seventh
anniversary of the drafting of the Constitution of the United States of America by the
Constitutional Convention; and
WHEREAS, the Constitution provides the framework of and for our government
with a set of principles that guarantees citizens certain rights, freedoms, and
responsibilities; and
WHEREAS, the Constitution further outlines the power of the federal government
and leaves other matters to state governments, ensuring that the government remains
accountable to its citizens; and
WHEREAS, it is fitting to officially recognize the Constitution and the anniversary
of its creation; and
WHEREAS, to honor the principles outlined in the Constitution, the United States
Congress, by joint resolution on August 2, 1956, requests that the President shall
proclaim the week between September 17 and 23 each year as Constitution Week.
N OW, THEREFORE, I, Jim Adams, Mayor of the City of Crystal, do hereby
proclaim September 17- 23, 2024, as CONSTITUTION WEEK in the City of Crystal. I
encourage residents to study the importance of active citizenship and the strength of
our Constitution.
Dated this 17th day of September 2024.
Jim Adams, Mayor
3.1
Crystal City Council work session minutes Sept. 3, 2024
Pursuant to due call and notice given in the manner prescribed by Section 3.01 of the City Charter,
the work session of the Crystal City Council was held at 8:16 p.m. on Sept. 3, 2024, in the Council
Chambers at City Hall, 4141 Douglas Dr. N., Crystal, MN and via Zoom. Mayor Adams called the
meeting to order.
I.Attendance
The city clerk recorded the attendance for city council members and staff:
Council members present: Budziszewski, Cummings, Kamish, Kiser, Onesirosan and Adams.
Council Member Eidbo was absent.
City staff present: City Manager A. Bell, Community Development Director J. Sutter, Public Works
Director/City Engineer J. Struve, Police Chief S. Revering, Deputy Police Chief B. Hubbard and City
Clerk Chrissy Serres. Assistant City Manager K. Therres was present remotely via Zoom. Also
present was J. Shepherd, the city’s conflict attorney for the Blue Line Extension project.
II.Agenda
The Council and staff discussed the following agenda items:
1.Review draft resolution regarding municipal consent for the Blue Line Extension.
2.Constituent issues.
3.New business.
4.Announcements.
III.Adjournment
The work session adjourned at 9:31 p.m.
Jim Adams, Mayor
ATTEST:
Christina Serres, City Clerk
4.1(a)
Crystal City Council meeting minutes Sept. 3, 2024
Page 1 of 3
1.Call to Order
Pursuant to due call and notice given in the manner prescribed by Section 3.01 of the City Charter, the
meeting of the Crystal City Council was held on Sept. 3, 2024, at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City
Hall, 4141 Douglas Dr. N. in Crystal, MN and via Zoom. Mayor Adams called the meeting to order.
Roll Call
Mayor Adams asked the city clerk to call the roll for elected officials. Upon roll call, the following
attendance was recorded:
Council members present: Budziszewski, Cummings, Kamish, Kiser, Onesirosan and Adams.
Council Member Eidbo was absent.
City staff present: City Manager A. Bell, City Attorney R. Tierney, Recreation Director J. Elholm, West
Metro Fire-Rescue District Chief S. Larson, Community Development Director J. Sutter, Assistant
Finance Director J. Bursheim, Police Chief S. Revering, Deputy Police Chief B. Hubbard, Public Works
Director/City Engineer J. Struve and City Clerk C. Serres. Assistant City Manager K. Therres was present
remotely via Zoom.
Pledge of Allegiance
Mayor Adams led the Council and audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.
2.Approval of Agenda
The Council considered approval of the agenda.
Moved by Council Member Budziszewski and seconded by Council Member Onesirosan to approve the
agenda.
Motion carried.
3.Consent Agenda
The Council considered the following items, which are routine and non-controversial in nature, in a
single motion:
3.1 Approval of the minutes from the following meetings:
a.The City Council work session on Aug. 20, 2024.
b.The City Council meeting on Aug. 20, 2024.
3.2 Approval of the list of license applications submitted by the city clerk to the City Council, a list that
is on file in the office of the city clerk.
Moved by Council Member Cummings and seconded by Council Member Kamish to approve the
consent agenda.
Motion carried.
4.Open Forum
No public comment was given during open forum.
5.Regular Agenda
5.1 The Council considered approval of disbursements of more than $25,000 submitted by the finance
department to the City Council, a list that is on file in the office of the finance department.
Moved by Council Member Kiser and seconded by Council Member Kamish to approve the list of
disbursements of more than $25,000.
Voting aye: Budziszewski, Cummings, Kamish, Kiser, Onesirosan and Adams.
Absent, not voting: Eidbo.
Motion carried.
4.1(b)
Crystal City Council meeting minutes Sept. 3, 2024
Page 2 of 3
5.2 The Council considered resolutions approving the preliminary 2025 budgets and tax levies.
Assistant Finance Director J. Bursheim addressed the Council.
Moved by Council Member Onesirosan and seconded by Council Member Kiser to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION NO. 2024 – 81
RESOLUTION APPROVING 2025 PROPOSED
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY PROPERTY TAX LEVY
Voting aye: Budziszewski, Cummings, Kamish, Kiser, Onesirosan and Adams.
Absent, not voting: Eidbo.
Motion carried, resolution declared adopted.
Moved by Council Member Kamish and seconded by Council Member Onesirosan to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION NO. 2024 – 82
RESOLUTION APPROVING 2025 PROPOSED GENERAL FUND BUDGET,
2025 PRELIMINARY PROPERTY TAX LEVY, SET PUBLIC INPUT DATE
FOR THE 2025 BUDGET AND PRELIMINARY PROPERTY TAX LEVY
Voting aye: Budziszewski, Cummings, Kamish, Kiser, Onesirosan and Adams.
Absent, not voting: Eidbo.
Motion carried, resolution declared adopted.
5.3 The Council considered the second reading of an ordinance rezoning 6203-6213 36th Ave. N. from
R1 to R2-Planned Development for an 8-unit twin home development, and a resolution approving
summary language for publication of the ordinance.
Community Development Director John Sutter addressed the Council.
Moved by Council Member Kiser and seconded by Council Member Kamish to adopt the following
ordinance:
ORDINANCE 2024 - 06
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING MAP TO REZONE
PROPERTY FOR CREEK EDGE TOWNHOMES LLC LOCATED AT 6203 AND 6213
36TH AVENUE NORTH FROM LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL (R-1)
TO PLANNED DEVELOPMENT (R2-PD)
And further, that this is the second and final reading.
Voting aye: Budziszewski, Cummings, Kamish, Kiser, Onesirosan and Adams.
Absent, not voting: Eidbo.
Motion carried.
Moved by Council Member Kamish and seconded by Council Member Cummings to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION NO. 2024 – 83
RESOLUTION APPROVING SUMMARY LANGUAGE
FOR PUBLICATION OF ORDINANCE NO. 2024-06
4.1(b)
Crystal City Council meeting minutes Sept. 3, 2024
Page 3 of 3
Voting aye: Budziszewski, Cummings, Kamish, Kiser, Onesirosan and Adams.
Absent, not voting: Eidbo.
Motion carried, resolution declared adopted.
5.4 The Council considered a resolution approving a quote for replacement of concrete at the south
fire station.
Public Works Director/City Engineer Jesse Struve addressed the Council.
Moved by Council Member Budziszewski and seconded by Council Member Cummings to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION NO. 2024 – 84
AUTHORIZING THE REPLACEMENT OF CONCRETE AT THE SOUTH FIRE STATION
Voting aye: Budziszewski, Cummings, Kamish, Kiser, Onesirosan and Adams.
Absent, not voting: Eidbo.
Motion carried, resolution declared adopted.
5.5 The Council considered a resolution approving a labor quote to install Joint Water Commission
(JWC) valves.
Public Works Director/City Engineer Jesse Struve addressed the Council.
Moved by Council Member Onesirosan and seconded by Council Member Kamish to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION NO. 2024 – 85
AUTHORIZING THE INSTALLATION FOR JWC WATERMAIN AND CITY VALVES
Voting aye: Budziszewski, Cummings, Kamish, Kiser, Onesirosan and Adams.
Absent, not voting: Eidbo.
Motion carried, resolution declared adopted.
7. Announcements
The Council and staff made announcements about upcoming events.
8. Adjournment
Moved by Council Member Budziszewski and seconded by Council Member Cummings to adjourn the
meeting.
Motion carried.
The meeting adjourned at 8:08 p.m.
___________________________________
Jim Adams, Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________________________
Christina Serres, City Clerk
4.1(b)
Page 1 of 1
City of Crystal Council Meeting
Sept. 17, 2024
Applications for City License
Edible cannabinoid THC product retailer
SUPERVALU, Inc. dba Cub Wine and Spirits, 5201 36th Ave. N., Crystal, MN 55422
Refuse hauler
Aspen Waste Systems, Inc., 2951 Weeks Ave. S.E., Minneapolis, MN 55414
Curbside Waste, Inc., 4025 85th Ave. N., Brooklyn Park, MN 55444
Darling Ingredients, Inc., 9000 382nd Ave., Blue Earth, MN 56013
Dick’s Sanitation Services, 8984 215th St. W., Lakeville, MN 55044
Farmers Union Industries, LLC dba Midwest Grease, P.O. Box 319, Redwood Falls, MN 56283
Lepage & Sons, Inc., 23602 University Ave. N.W., Bethel, MN 55005
Republic Services, Inc. dba Allied Waste Services-Blaine, 8661 Rendova St. NE, Circle Pines, MN 55014
Sanimax USA, LLC, 505 Hardman Ave., So. St. Paul, MN 55075 (contingent upon clearing of payment)
Suburban Waste MN LLC, 7125 126th St. W., #500 Savage, MN 55378
Walters Recycling & Refuse, Inc., 2830 101st Ave. NE, Blaine, MN 55449
Waste Connections, Inc., dba ACE Solid Waste, 6601 McKinley St. N.W., Ramsey, MN 55303
Waste Management of Minnesota, Inc., 10050 Naples St. NE, Blaine, MN 55449 (contingent upon clearing of
payment)
Rental (new)
5312 Florida Ave. N. – Twaambo Mwandu Sibajene (Conditional)
5020 Welcome Ave. N. – Genius Plowing (Conditional)
4513 Xenia Ave. N. – Rose Milless (Conditional)
Rental (renewal)
4631 Adair Ave. N. – Shong Moua (Conditional)
3157 Douglas Dr. N. – Drew Kabanuk
5153 Douglas Dr. N. – Bonnie McVeigh (Conditional)
5401 Florida Ave. N. – Jin Chen (Conditional)
4088 Jersey Ave. N. – Reese Pfeiffer (Conditional)
3026 Kentucky Ave. N. – Tyler Minkel (Conditional)
2700 Louisiana Ave. N. – Kshitij Goel
4806 Louisiana Ave. N. – Shea Nelsen
5673 Maryland Ave. N. – Chad Tesmer (Conditional)
5801 Quail Ave. N. – Jeffonse Sanders
5856 Quebec Ave. N. – Loren George
5737 Regent Ave. N. – Adetomi Omotayo
5439 Twin Lake Ter. – Kurschner Companies LLC (Conditional)
5222 Unity Ct. N. – Nandri LLC (Conditional)
3300 Welcome Ave. N. – Bridge SFR IV Seed Borrower LLC
4755 Welcome Ave. N. – Independent Properties (Conditional)
3149 Winnetka Ave. N. – Jonathan Doolittle (Conditional)
5225 Xenia Ave. N. – Sudi Jannatpour (Conditional)
5233 Xenia Ave. N. – HPA II Borrower 2021-1 LLC
3703 Zane Ave. N. – Mark Butler
8600 32nd Pl. N. – Benjamin Nelson (Conditional)
6619 50th Ave. N. – Quyen North
6611 52nd Ave. N. – JF Holding Co. (Conditional)
6635 52nd Ave. N. - JF Holding Co. (Conditional)
6610-6614 50th Ave. N. – Jeff Peterson
4710 58th Ave. N. #101 – Twin Lake North Condo Assn.
6301 61st Ave. N. – Joshua Handeland (Conditional)
4.2
6203 – 36TH AVENUE NORTH – STORMWATER MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
PAGE 1 OF 2
___________________________________________________________________________
FROM: Dan Olson, City Planner
__________________________________________________________________________
TO: Adam R. Bell, City Manager (for September 17 Meeting)
DATE: September 11, 2024
RE: Consider adoption of a resolution approving a stormwater maintenance
agreement at 6203 - 36th Avenue North
A.BACKGROUND
On September 3, 2024 City Council approved a rezoning of the property at 6203 – 36th
Avenue N. so that the property owner, Creek Edge Townhomes LLC, could construct
four twin homes on the property. One of the conditions for the rezoning approval is to
receive approval of a stormwater maintenance agreement (attachment A) for the
installation and regular maintenance of the two stormwater ponds on the west side of the
property. The city attorney and public works director have reviewed and approved the
agreement. The property owner has signed the agreement, and upon execution by the
mayor and city manager the agreement will be recorded at Hennepin County.
Attachments:
A.Proposed stormwater maintenance agreement
B.Resolution
COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
Stormwater Maintenance Agreement
6203 – 36th Avenue N.
4.3
6203 – 36TH AVENUE NORTH – STORMWATER MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
PAGE 2 OF 2
2024 Aerial Photo:
B. REQUESTED ACTION
City Council approval of the attached resolution is requested.
4.3
Page 1
AGREEMENT TO MAINTAIN STORMWATER POND AREAS AT 6203 – 36th
AVENUE NORTH (CREEK EDGE TOWNHOMES)
THIS AGREEMENT is made and entered into as of the _______ day of ____________,
2024, by and between CREEK EDGE TOWNHOMES L.L.C., a Minnesota limited liability
company (“Owner”), and the City of CRYSTAL, a Minnesota municipal corporation (“City”).
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, Owner owns certain real property located in the City of CRYSTAL, County
of Hennepin, State of Minnesota, 6203 & 6213– 36th Avenue North, P.I.N. 2111821220069 and
2111821220070 which is Abstract property legally described as:
Lots 4 and 5, Block 4, ROSEDALE ACRES, Hennepin County, Minnesota.
which will be re-platted as:
Lot 4 AND 5, Block 4, CREEK EDGE BARUCH Addition, Hennepin
County, Minnesota
(“Property”)
WHEREAS, certain stormwater basin areas (collectively referred to as “Storm Ponds”)
shall be constructed by Owner on the Property.
WHEREAS, the purpose of this Agreement is to ensure Owner’s performance of regular
maintenance of the Storm Ponds.
WHEREAS, the Property is situated within the Bassett Creek Watershed, and permanent
provisions for handling of storm runoff, including provisions for operation and maintenance of the
Storm Ponds are required, and such provisions are set forth in this Agreement which shall be
recorded against the real property records with the Hennepin County Recorder’s Office.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of mutual covenants of the parties set forth
herein and other valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby
acknowledged, the parties agree as follows:
1.Construction and Maintenance of the Storm Ponds. Owner and its successor or
assigns as fee owner of the Property shall be responsible for constructing,
maintaining, operating, and repairing all portions of the Storm Pond as graphically
depicted on the attached Exhibit A as outlined below:
a.Remove litter, debris, and accumulated sediment from the Storm Ponds,
including inlet, outlet, and/or pretreatment structures.
Attachment A 4.3
Page 2
b. Storm Ponds shall not be used to stockpile snow, or for snow catchment areas
off from parking lots because of sediment accumulation.
c. Maintain the integrity and viability of the Storm Ponds, including all native
perennial vegetation, in a way which does not compromise the effectiveness
of the design. All established vegetation should be checked for survival and
replaced as quickly as possible with similar plant species.
d. Control weeds and noxious species. This can be done with spot spraying,
weeding, or selective cutting.
2. Schedule of Maintenance. Owner shall inspect and maintain the Storm Ponds,
including all inlet, outlet, and/or control structures, twice a year. Inspections and
maintenance shall be completed in the Spring and Fall. Owner or Owner’s
representative shall make all such scheduled inspections. Owner or Owner’s
representative should provide the report to the city. Following the submittal of the
report, the Owner or Owner’s representative, authorizes the city to enter the property
to inspect the Storm Ponds. If the ponds are found to not be working according to the
original design after completing an inspection the city may require further testing. If
deficiencies are discovered through the testing, additional maintenance or corrections
may be required by the city to bring the ponds back into compliance with the original
design. If the owner does not complete these corrections in a timely manner, the city
has the authority to enter the property to complete the work and special assess the
property for all costs incurred.
3. Notice. All notices required under this Agreement shall either be personally delivered
or be sent by certified or registered mail and addressed as follows:
To Owner: Creek Edge Townhomes L.L.C.
9705 29th Avenue North
Plymouth, MN 55441
Attn: Aaron Gil Baruch and Eli Baruch
To City: City Manager
City of Crystal
4141 Douglas Dr N
Crystal, MN 55422
All notices given hereunder shall be deemed given when personally delivered or two
(2) business days after being placed in the mail properly addressed as provided
herein.
4. Successors. All duties and obligations of Owner under this Agreement shall also be
duties and obligations of Owner’s successors and assigns.
4.3
Page 3
5. Effective Date. This Agreement shall be binding and effective as of the date hereof.
6. Recording of this Agreement. Once this Agreement has been fully executed, it shall
be delivered to the City Attorney for recording with the office of the Hennepin
County Recorder.
7. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of
which shall be deemed an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and the
same instrument.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, we have hereunto set our hands and seals.
Creek Edge Townhomes L.L.C.,
a Minnesota limited liability company
By:
_________________________
Its: Chief Manager
STATE OF MINNESOTA )
)ss.
COUNTY OF HENNEPIN )
The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me this __________ day of
__________________, 2024, by ____________________, the Chief Manager of Creek Edge
Townhomes L.L.C., Minnesota limited liability company, on behalf of said limited liability
company.
Notary Public
4.3
Page 4
City of Crystal,
a Minnesota municipal corporation
By:
Its: Mayor
By:
Its: City Manager
STATE OF MINNESOTA )
)ss.
COUNTY OF HENNEPIN )
The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me this __________ day of
_________________, 2024, by ____________________________ and
__________________________, the Mayor and City Manager of the City of Crystal, a
Minnesota municipal corporation, on behalf of said municipal corporation.
Notary Public
4.3
Page 5
EXHIBIT A
GRAPHIC DEPICTION OF STORMWATER FILTRATION PONDS
4.3
CR225\483\974820.v1
RESOLUTION NO. 2024-
AUTHORIZING THE AGREEMENT TO MAINTAIN
STORMWATER POND AREAS AT 6203-36TH AVENUE NORTH
(CREEK EDGE TOWNHOMES)
WHEREAS, the Creek Edge Townhomes Project is being constructed at 6203 & 6213 36th
Avenue North in Crystal (the “Property”) and is owned by Creek Edge Townhomes, L.L.C. (the
“Owner”); and
WHEREAS, as part of the Creek Edge Townhomes project, certain stormwater basin areas
(collectively referred to as “Storm Ponds”) will be constructed; and
WHEREAS, these Storm Ponds will require on-going operation and maintenance; and
WHEREAS, as a requirement of the approval of the property rezoning by the City Council,
the City and the Owner must enter into an agreement to provide for the on-going operation and
maintenance needs of the Storm Ponds; and
WHEREAS, City staff and Owner have drafted an agreement which has been presented to
the City Council for review and approval; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Crystal City Council hereby authorizes
the City Manager and Mayor to sign the Agreement to Maintain Stormwater Pond Areas with the
Owner; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this approval includes approval of such additional
details or modifications as may be necessary and appropriate and approved by legal counsel to the
City and by the City Manager and Mayor.
Adopted by the Crystal City Council this ___ day of September, 2024.
____________________________________
Jim Adams, Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________________________
Christina Serres, City Clerk
Attachment B
4.3
CCCRRRYYYSSSTTTAAALLL PPPOOOLLLIIICCCEEE DDDEEEPPPAAARRRTTTMMMEEENNNTTT
“Service with Compassion, Integrity, & Professionalism”
TO: Mayor and Council Members
FROM: Brian V. Hubbard, Deputy Police Chief
CC: Stephanie Revering, Chief of Police
Adam R. Bell, City Manager
DATE: September 9, 2024
SUBJECT: Consent Agenda: September 17, 2024 Council Meeting
2024-2025 Multicultural Driver Education Program
___________________________________________________________________________
MMEEMMOORRAANNDDUUMM
BACKGROUND
For the last several years, we have partnered with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety
for the Multicultural Driver Education Program grant. These grant dollars are used to assist in
delivering driver education programs for various community members in cooperation with the
Robbinsdale Area Schools Adult Basic Education Program. Our officers will work the project
and be paid through this grant, no money will be taken from our operating budget for this
endeavor.
NOTIFICATION
Per the grant, we must notify our City Council and are asking for your approval of the
resolution which is on the consent agenda.
Chief Revering and I will be present at the council meeting if any questions do arise.
As always, please let me know if you have any questions. Thanks.
4.4
CITY OF CRYSTAL
MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION NO. 2024 - ___
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF AGREEMENT WITH THE
MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY, MULTICULTURAL ADULT
DRIVER EDUCATION PROGRAM
WHEREAS, the City Council has authorized the City of Crystal Police Department to
enter into a grant agreement with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety for the project
entitled 2024-2025 Multicultural Adult Driver Education Project during the period from October
1, 2024 through September 30, 2025.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Crystal
as follows:
1. The Deputy Police Chief is hereby authorized to execute such agreements and
amendments as are necessary to implement the project on behalf of the City of Crystal
Police Department and to be the fiscal agent and administer the grant.
Adopted by the Crystal City Council this 17th day of September, 2024.
BY THE CITY COUNCIL
_________________________
Jim Adams, Mayor
ATTEST:
____________________________
Christina Serres, City Clerk
4.4
CCCRRRYYYSSSTTTAAALLL PPPOOOLLLIIICCCEEE DDDEEEPPPAAARRRTTTMMMEEENNNTTT
“Service with Compassion, Integrity, & Professionalism”
TO: Mayor and Council Members
FROM: Brian V. Hubbard, Deputy Police Chief
CC: Stephanie Revering, Chief of Police
Adam R. Bell, City Manager
DATE: September 9, 2024
SUBJECT: Consent Agenda: September 17, 2024 Council Meeting
2024-2025 Towards Zero Death (TZD) Grant
___________________________________________________________________________
MMEEMMOORRAANNDDUUMM
BACKGROUND
For the last several years, we have partnered with the Office of Traffic Safety and participated
in the Towards Zero Death (TZD) grant. These grant dollars are divided up with cities who
want to enhance traffic enforcement and education to our residents regarding seat belt safety,
speeding and other traffic related issues. Our officers will work the project and be paid
through this grant, no money will be taken from our operating budget for this endeavor.
NOTIFICATION
Per the grant we must notify our City Council and are asking for your approval of the
resolution which is on the consent agenda.
Chief Revering and I will be present at the council meeting if any questions do arise.
As always, please let me know if you have any questions. Thanks.
4.5
CITY OF CRYSTAL
MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION NO. 2024 - ___
RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF AGREEMENT WITH THE
MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY, OFFICE OF TRAFFIC SAFETY
WHEREAS, the City Council has authorized the City of Crystal Police Department to
enter into a grant agreement with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Office of Traffic
Safety, for the project entitled 2024-2025 Towards Zero Death Enforcement during the period
from October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2025.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Crystal
as follows:
1. The Deputy Police Chief is hereby authorized to execute such agreements and
amendments as are necessary to implement the project on behalf of the City of Crystal
Police Department and to be the fiscal agent and administer the grant.
2. The Crystal Police Department is hereby authorized to work with the police departments
from the cities of Minneapolis, Minneapolis Parks, New Hope, and Robbinsdale in the
execution and distribution of funds of this grant.
Adopted by the Crystal City Council this 17th day of September, 2024.
BY THE CITY COUNCIL
_________________________
Jim Adams, Mayor
ATTEST:
______________________________
Christina Serres, City Clerk
4.5
4141 Douglas Drive North • Crystal, Minnesota 55422-1696
Tel: (763) 531-1000 • Fax: (763) 531-1188 • www.crystalmn.gov
Memorandum
DATE: September 11, 2024
TO: Mayor and City Council
Adam R. Bell, City Manager
FROM: John Elholm, Recreation Director
Jason Minnick, Facilities Manager
SUBJECT: Grant Application to the Hennepin County Youth Activities Grants
Crystal Cove Aquatic Center
The Crystal Cove Aquatic Center is being rebuilt in 2024. In addition to the pool structure,
various amenities are proposed to improve the pool experience. One such improvement
planned for 2025 is replacing the mobile pool lift. This piece of equipment is used to assists
pool visitors into the main pool or zero depth pool if they have a mobility impairment. The
existing lift is 20 years old.
The City of Crystal has funds allocated in the 2025 long term plan to replace the mobile pool
lift. Hennepin County also offers equipment grants through the Hennepin County Youth
Activities Grants to assist with purchases like this. The maximum grant amount for
equipment is $10,000. The proposed grant request is:
Hennepin County Grant $ 10,000
City of Crystal $ 5,000
Total Pool Lift Cost $ 15,000
The grant application is due October 1, 2024.
Requested Council Action
Adopt the attached resolution authorizing an equipment grant application to the Hennepin
County Youth Activities Grants to assist in replacing the mobile pool lift at the Crystal Cove
Aquatic Center.
4.6
RESOLUTION NO. 2024 - ______
AUTHORIZING AN EQUIPMENT GRANT APPLICATION TO THE
HENNEPIN COUNTY YOUTH ACTIVITIES GRANTS TO ASSIST IN
REPLACING THE MOBILE POOL LIFT AT THE AQUATIC CENTER
WHEREAS, the Hennepin County Board of Commissioners, via the Hennepin County Youth
Activities Grants, provides funds to assist local governmental units (LGU) within Hennepin
County to purchase equipment that will improve access to youth activities, and
WHEREAS, the City of Crystal, hereinafter LGU, desires to replace the mobile pool lift at the
Crystal Cove Aquatic Center (EQUIPMENT) so youth with mobility impairments can better
access the main pool or zero depth pool.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE City Council of the City of Crystal:
I. The estimate of the total cost of the EQUIPMENT shall be $15,000. The LGU is requesting
$10,000 from the Hennepin County Youth Activities Grants and will assume responsibility for
providing matching funds of $5,000.
II. LGU is the owner of the property where the EQUIPMENT is located. The property is located
within Hennepin County
III. LGU desires to support access to youth activities in Crystal and agrees to enter into
necessary and required agreements with Hennepin County for the specific purpose of purchasing
the EQUIPMENT.
IV. That John Elholm, Recreation Director, is authorized and directed to execute the application
for the Hennepin County Youth Activities Grant.
CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify that the foregoing resolution is a true and correct copy of the resolution presented
to and adopted by the Crystal City Council at a duly authorized meeting thereof held on the 17th
day of September, 2024, as shown by the minutes of said meeting in my possession.
Jim Adams, Mayor
ATTEST:
____________________________
Christina Serres, City Clerk
4.6
DATE:September 11, 2024
TO:Adam R. Bell, City Manager
City of Crystal City Council
FROM: Jean McGann, Contracted Finance Director
RE: Expenditures over $25,000
Payee Amount
Northern Glass and Glazing Replacement Windows for Police Department $57,875.00
IRS - EFTPS Federal & FICA Withholding Taxes for 8/30/24 Pay Date $71,413.55
HealthPartners, Inc.September Health Insurance Premiums $139,821.00
$269,109.55
Description
6.1
___________________________________________________________________________
FROM: John Sutter, Community Development Director
D ATE: September 11, 2024
TO: Adam R. Bell, City Manager (for September 17 meeting)
SUBJECT: Consider a resolution regarding municipal consent for the Blue Line
Extension
___________________________________________________________________________
Background
Metropolitan Council is proposing to extend the existing METRO Blue Line light rail transit
(LRT) facility from Target Field Station in Minneapolis through the cities of Robbinsdale,
Crystal and Brooklyn Park to the vicinity of Highway 610 and Oak Grove Parkway. The
extension would be 13.4 miles long and have 12 stations. Construction would start in 2027 with
the line opening in 2030.
Crystal Segment
The Crystal segment would be 2 miles long with a station at Bass Lake Road. The LRT tracks
would be built in the median of Bottineau Blvd. (commonly called County Road 81).
Bottineau Blvd. would be reduced from six lanes to four. This lane reduction would result in a
wider median to create space for the LRT tracks.
An interchange would be constructed at Bass Lake Road so that through traffic on Bottineau
Blvd. would pass over Bass Lake Road on bridges and there would be ramps connecting the
two roadways.
The Bass Lake Road station would be at grade in the space between the Bottineau Blvd.
bridges. The north end of the station would be accessed from a sidewalk on Bass Lake Road.
The south end of the station would be accessed from a pedestrian & bicycle path which would
pass under the Bottineau Blvd. bridges and ramps. A park and ride lot would be constructed on
the west side of Bottineau Blvd. south of the telecommunications tower.
COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
Blue Line Extension
Municipal Consent
6.2
Anticipated property impacts include three total acquisitions: Cities Auto (5630 Lakeland), the
Schrader office building (5501 Lakeland) and U-Haul (5465 Lakeland).
The only access change would be for southbound Elmhurst Avenue which would be limited to
right turns at Bass Lake Road. Elmhurst traffic desiring to go east on Bass Lake Road would
need to go west and make a u-turn at the Sherburne Avenue signal. All other access
movements would continue in approximately the same locations as existing conditions.
Municipal Consent
Minnesota Statutes 473.3994 requires Metropolitan Council to provide preliminary design
plans to each respective city along the route and seek what is called Municipal Consent.
Before the Crystal City Council considers taking action on Municipal Consent, it must hold a
public hearing regarding the preliminary design plans.
The statute provides three options:
Approval. The city approves the plans as submitted.
No Action. The city takes no action which also results in approval.
Disapproval. The city must identify changes to the plans that would result in approval.
The municipal consent statute does not provide a way for a city to require a different
mode such as Bus Rapid Transit or to stop the project in general.
August 20 Open House, Public Hearing and Written Comment
Staff participated in the open house at the Crystal Community Center prior to the public
hearing during the 7:00 pm City Council meeting. Six people addressed the City Council during
the hearing. 31 people submitted written comments which are attached.
Metro Transit Postcard Mailing Issue
The city published legal notice in the Sun Post on August 8 and posted on our social media
channels (Facebook, X and Nextdoor) on August 5, 14, 19 and 20. In addition to and
separately from this, Metro Transit mailed postcards using bulk mail.
Beginning on August 21, staff began receiving emails, phone calls and letters from people
saying they had just received the postcard. Staff contacted Metro Transit and learned that they
mailed the postcards on August 14, which was evidently insufficient time for them to arrive
prior to the August 20 open house and public hearing. In fact, some of the postcards were still
6.2
arriving after Labor Day. To mitigate this unfortunate situation, staff responded directly and
individually to each person with a copy of the August 20 City Council presentation, an invitation
to visit City Hall to view the project plans, an invitation to comment further prior to the
September 17 City Council meeting, and other resources and information about the project.
Requested City Council Action
A draft Municipal Consent disapproval resolution is attached. This is essentially the same
resolution discussed at the September 3 work session. Since then, city staff has had several
discussions with project staff. On some of the five disapproval items, we have made significant
progress and are potentially very close to being able to recommend removal of those items
from the resolution. On other items, there has been little progress but discussions are
continuing. Staff will present an update and recommendation for City Council action at the
September 17 meeting.
Attachments
A. Draft Municipal Consent resolution
B. August 20 public hearing presentation
C. Written comments received to date
6.2
RESOLUTION FOR CITY COUNCIL CONSIDERATION 9/17/2024
CITY OF CRYSTAL
MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION NO. 2024-_____
RESOLUTION REGARDING MUNICIPAL CONSENT
FOR THE METRO BLUE LINE EXTENSION
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Council, an agency of the State of Minnesota, is proposing to
build the METRO Blue Line Extension (the “Project”), a light rail transit facility, through the
City of Crystal (the “City”); and
WHEREAS, in accordance with Minnesota Statutes, section 473.3994 (the “Statute”), the
Metropolitan Council submitted the preliminary design plans for the physical design component
of the Project (the “Plans”) to the City on July 26, 2024 and the City is required to review and
either approve or disapprove the Plans no later than October 10, 2024 (“Municipal Consent”);
and
WHEREAS, the City has provided opportunities for public review and comment on the Project
and Plans, culminating in the required public hearing held by the City Council on August 20,
2024; and
WHEREAS, prior to the contemplation of the Project, the City was required to expend $2.9
million for right-of-way acquisition costs related to the expansion of Bottineau Boulevard for
County Projects No. 0118 and No. 0119, which expanded Bottineau Boulevard to six lanes; and
WHEREAS, the proposed alignment will remove traffic lanes in the center of the expanded
Bottineau Boulevard, and therefore without the previous acquisitions, the Metropolitan Council
would need to acquire the right-of-way for the Project as currently designed; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has identified significant design issues and necessary changes
related to the Plans, including the loss of traffic lanes on the expanded Bottineau Boulevard; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that the appropriate Municipal Consent action
would be disapproval including the specific changes which would result in approval per the
Statute; and
WHEREAS, notwithstanding any disapproval action per the statute, the City Council desires to
affirm its support for the METRO Blue Line Extension project in general.
6.2
RESOLUTION FOR CITY COUNCIL CONSIDERATION 9/17/2024
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Crystal City Council elects to disapprove the
Plans in accordance with the Statute; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Crystal City Council finds that the following changes
would result in approval per the Statute:
1. Include the reconstruction of the old rural section of County State Aid Highway No. 8 (West
Broadway) from 47th Avenue North to Fairview Avenue North in the project plans. See
Exhibit A.
2. The middle lane of southbound Bottineau Blvd. at 47th Avenue must be a “choice” lane so
that the middle lane has the option to exit to southbound Highway 100. See Exhibit B.
3. Elevate the LRT tracks over the 42nd Avenue intersection to protect the Joint Water
Commission main which supplies Crystal, New Hope and Golden Valley. See Exhibit C.
4. Along Lakeland Avenue between Wilshire Blvd. and the park and ride lot, provide
boulevards between east curb of Lakeland and the sidewalk, and also between the west curb
of Lakeland and the parking lot curb of 5445 Lakeland. See Exhibit D.
5. On Bass Lake Road west of Elmhurst, modify the Sherburne Avenue intersection to
accommodate the U-turns made necessary by the elimination of the southbound left turn
option at Elmhurst Avenue. See Exhibit E.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Crystal City Council is supportive of the METRO Blue
Line Extension project provided that these changes are made to the Project.
Adopted by the Crystal City Council this ___ day of ___________________, 2024.
____________________________
Jim Adams, Mayor
ATTEST:
_______________________________
Chrissy Serres, City Clerk
6.2
RESOLUTION FOR CITY COUNCIL CONSIDERATION 9/17/2024
EXHIBIT A
Old rural section of C.S.A.H No. 8 (West Broadway)
6.2
RESOLUTION FOR CITY COUNCIL CONSIDERATION 9/17/2024
6.2
RESOLUTION FOR CITY COUNCIL CONSIDERATION 9/17/2024
6.2
RESOLUTION FOR CITY COUNCIL CONSIDERATION 9/17/2024
EXHIBIT B
Southbound middle “choice” lane at 47th Avenue
Existing backups during the a.m. peak typically extend to 50th Avenue and occasionally
extend through the Corvallis intersection. And this is with three southbound lanes.
The project proposes to eliminate the third southbound lane except for a short segment from
Lakeside to 47th Avenues which is approximately half the length of the existing a.m. peak
queue.
It is a reasonable assumption that the project’s significant reduction of road space will cause
the southbound queues to extend further north and occur more frequently than in the existing
condition.
Due to the proposed interchange at Bass Lake Road, southbound traffic will be transitioning
from a wide-open, freeway-style, 1⅓ mile long segment south of 63rd Ave. to traffic signals
with congestion and queues south of Bass Lake Road.
Southbound traffic would be cresting the bridge over the CPKC when it would first see the
slowed or stopped queue, with little time to react. Having a third lane start just 1,000 feet
north of 47th does not address this real-world traffic safety problem which would be
exacerbated by the current project design.
6.2
RESOLUTION FOR CITY COUNCIL CONSIDERATION 9/17/2024
EXHIBIT C
Elevate LRT over 42nd Avenue to project JWC main
6.2
RESOLUTION FOR CITY COUNCIL CONSIDERATION 9/17/2024
EXHIBIT D
Add Boulevards to Lakeland Avenue between Wilshire Blvd. and the Park and Ride lot
Based on a discussion with project staff on Aug. 27, city staff are hopeful that this can be
resolved through some sort of project snowplowing assurance letter and removed from the
Municipal Consent resolution prior to a vote.
6.2
RESOLUTION FOR CITY COUNCIL CONSIDERATION 9/17/2024
EXHIBIT E
Modify Bass Lake Road - Sherburne Avenue intersection to accommodate U-turns
Based on a discussion with project staff on Aug. 27, city staff are hopeful that this can be
resolved with a design modification and removed from the resolution prior to a vote.
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Blue Line ExtensionMunicipal Consent Public Hearing and Work SessionAugust 20, 2024¾Public Hearing during the City Council meeting¾City Council discussion during the work sessionafter the meetingATTACHMENT B6.2
Proposed Project•Extension of existing Blue Line light rail transit (LRT) facilityThe existing Blue Line runs from Target Field Station in Minneapolis to MSP Airport and the Mall of America in BloomingtonThe Blue Line extension would run from Target Field station through Robbinsdale, Crystal and Brooklyn Park to Oak Grove Pkwy north of Hwy 610•13.4 miles long with 12 stations•Construction start in 2027•Line opening in 20306.2
Crystal Segment•2 miles long•LRT tracks in the median of Bottineau Blvd.Bottineau Blvd. reduced from six lanes to fourCreates a wider median to fit LRT tracks•Interchange at Bass Lake RoadBottineau Blvd. bridges over Bass Lake RoadRamps connect the two roadwaysBike/ped path passes under Bottineau Blvd. bridges and ramps•Bass Lake Road station at grade in between the bridges•Park and ride lot on west side of Bottineau Blvd. south of telecommunications tower6.2
Municipal ConsentWhat Municipal Consent is notabout:•LRT vs other forms of transportation•The cost effectiveness of LRT•Operational issues related to LRTMetropolitan Council and Hennepin County are the decision-makers on these issues/questions•Minnesota Statutes 473.3994 provides three options for each city along the route:Approval.The city approves the plans as submitted.No Action. The city takes no action which also results in approval.Disapproval. The city must identify changes to the plans that would result in approval.Disapproval triggers a hearing by Metropolitan Council which will decide whether or not to make the city’s changes.There is no provision for a city to say “No” to a light rail transit project.6.2
Hwy 100 - 47thAvenue•Northbound third lane drops between Hwy 100 and 47th(inside lane drop)•Southbound configuration roughly the same as existing6.2
47thAvenue - Corvallis Avenue•Inside lanes removed to create space for LRT tracks in the median•Southbound third lane added south of 49thAvenue due to Hwy 100 ramp queuing (this would shift the west curb further west)•Generally fits within existing road footprint except for southbound third lane•Traction Power Sub-Station location to be located near Fairview Avenue6.2
Corvallis Avenue - Wilshire Blvd.•Inside lanes removed to create space for LRT tracks in the median•8 foot shoulders to facilitate emergency response over the CPKC tracks•Generally fits within existing road footprint•Most of existing bridge and retaining walls preserved6.2
Wilshire Blvd. - Bass Lake Road•Bottineau Blvd. through traffic passes over Bass Lake Road on bridges•Ped/bike path (future CP Regional Trail) passes under the bridges and ramps•Station platform accessed from sidewalk (north end) and ped/bike path (south end)•Park and ride lot and TPSS on west side of Bottineau, south of the telecom tower•Two total acquisitions: Schrader office building and U-Haul6.2
Bass Lake Road inset•Elimination of left turn from Elmhurst to go east on Bass Lake Road - would have to turn right then U-turn at Sherburne•Ped crossing and bus stop upgrade at Elmhurst (items from 2016 Station Area Plan and previous version of the project)•Left turn lanes added at Adair (westbound) and Zane (eastbound)•Shared ped/bike paths on each side of Bass Lake Road transition to bike lanes and sidewalks at Adair (north side) and Yates (south side)6.2
Bass Lake Road - 58thAvenue•Airport Road access essentially same as existing•North of the interchange, generally fits within existing road footprint•One total acquisition: Cities Auto•Note: The project is exploring relocating the ped/bike path (Crystal Lake Regional Trail) to the west side of the “backage” road (Brunswick-Colorado) instead of along Bottineau.6.2
58thAvenue - 62ndAvenue•Generally fits within existing road footprint•Proposed Traction Power Sub-Station to be located near 60thAvenue, probably on the west side of the BNSF corridor (similar to the previous version of the project)6.2
Potential Municipal Consent Issues Previously Identifieda) Elevate the LRT tracks over 42ndAvenue intersection to protect the Joint Water Commission main (coordinate with Robbinsdale)b) Reconstruct the old rural section of West Broadway from Highway 100 in Robbinsdale to Fairview Avenue in Crystal (coordinate with Robbinsdale)c) Make the middle lane of southbound Bottineau at 47tha “choice lane” so it has the option to exit to southbound Highway 100 (coordinate with Robbinsdale)d) Provide boulevards along Lakeland between Wilshire and the park & ridee) Widen the Bass Lake Road median at Sherburne to accommodate the U-turns made necessary by the elimination of the southbound left turn option at Elmhursta)b)c)d)e)6.2
Next Steps¾Aug. 20:•Public hearing - receive public comment•Work session - discuss potential municipal consent actions¾Sep. 3 work session - staff presents one or more draft municipal consent resolutions for City Council discussion¾Sep. 12 work session - backup date for additional Council discussion if necessary¾Sep. 17 meeting - City Council considers taking action on a municipal consent resolution¾Oct. 1 meeting - backup date for Council to take action on a municipal consent resolution¾Oct. 10 - statutory deadline for the city to take action on municipal consent6.2
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John Sutter
From:Janice Scofield
Sent:Tuesday, August 20, 2024 11:06 AM
To:John Sutter
Subject:Blue Line
I am against wasting money on the blue line extension.
Jan Scofield
3656 Colorado Ave. N.
Crystal, MN 55422-1923
ATTACHMENT C
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John Sutter
From:Richard Sollberger
Sent:Tuesday, August 20, 2024 1:11 PM
To:John Sutter
Subject:Blue Line Extension
Hi,
My name is Richard Sollberger and I live in Golden Valley, shopping mostly in Crystal.
I oppose the extension and expense of light rail that does not use common sense. After the boondoggle
associated with the Southwest Light Rail - time and money - we don't need another one in north
Minneapolis, Robbinsdale, and Crystal.
Bus rapid transit is much more economical and practical and does not require tearing up Broadway Ave (Cty
81) and north Minneapolis, Robbinsdale and Crystal.
We do not need another I-94 gut of our neighborhoods. We don't need to jump at the chance for federal
dollars that provide temporary jobs.
Please, do not allow Crystal to support the light rail.
Richard Sollberger
2000 Ordway St
Golden Valley, MN 55422
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John Sutter
From:Kubly Family
Sent:Tuesday, August 20, 2024 5:16 PM
To:John Sutter
Subject:Blue line extension
I attended the event to review plans for the blue line. I support this project fully. I am really impressed with the concept designs
for the Bass Lake Road intersection.
Thank you for your work!
Janet Kubly
Crystal Resident
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John Sutter
From:Tawanna Kyle
Sent:Friday, August 9, 2024 9:49 AM
To:John Sutter
Subject:METRO Blue Line Extension municipal consent comments
It would be great to consider adding a stop at 47th street in Crystal we have lots of young adolescents that don’t have
transportation that will benefit from using the blue line to commute to local jobs, schools and recreational activities. There is a
significant hike in this area between robbinsdale and bass lake. Thanks for your consideration. Sincerely Crystal Homeowner
Sent from my iPhone
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John Sutter
From:kristen havisto
Sent:Tuesday, August 20, 2024 6:43 PM
To:John Sutter
Subject:81 light rail
Hi John
I am concerned about getting across 81 during construction and after the LR is completed. I live by Twin Lake but I shop and use
services across 81 for everything. I also use 81 to get to Hwy 100 to go to work.
I am not interested in taking the LR. I worked downtown for 20 years. It was great when I started and declined through the
years. My company moved to Minnetonka for safety reasons. They sold their building that they owned for over 100 years and
now we lease space.
Please let me know if you need any further information from me to help stop this from happening.
Thanks
Kristen Havisto
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John Sutter
From:Angela Lindberg-Livingston
Sent:Wednesday, August 21, 2024 4:07 PM
To:John Sutter
Subject:METRO Blue Line Extension municipal consent comments
I am so EXCITED by the prospect of the blue line extension. I live near Bass Lake and 81, and I work in Highland Park, Saint Paul.
The idea of commuting by train sounds so good to me. I can knit and read on my way to work rather than driving my stressful
commute. And that’s before the environmental benefits of getting another vehicle off the road! And then there’s the idea of
getting downtown for events and dinner that will be cheaper than rideshare or parking and safer than driving if we are having
adult beverages. I am so so so excited and in favor of the Blue Line!
Angie Lindberg-Livingston
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John Sutter
From:Doug Mccready
Sent:Wednesday, August 21, 2024 4:54 PM
To:John Sutter
Nice. So we just got the car that says there's a meeting for this blue line on August 20th. We just got it today, August 21st. I don't
want this line coming through here. I don't want the businesses, it's going to take out. I don't want the traffic congestion. It's
gonna cause and I don't want More people that are just riding on a train to come up here. The only cause more crime. There's no
need for this train. It's going to cause more congestion than anything and headaches, not to mention a little businesses. Mom
and pop said you're gonna put out a business by having this because you'll have to mow down there. Restaurants and
businesses? I'm against it. We are against it if anybody really cares
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John Sutter
From:
Sent:Wednesday, August 21, 2024 5:01 PM
To:John Sutter
Subject:Blue line
Thanks for the card telling me about the open house to give my comments on the light rail.
Too bad I received the card today, when the event was last night.
Just for the record I see no reason to waste money on this boondoggle
Bill Kopczeski
Crystal
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John Sutter
From:Dylan Wieber
Sent:Wednesday, August 21, 2024 5:34 PM
To:John Sutter
Subject:Blue line extension public hearing
Hello John,
I wanted to let you know that I got a letter in the mail today, not yesterday because I check my mail box every day. This
letter was a notice for the blue line extension public hearing. I was excited to be able to show up at the hearing and share my
disagreement with this terrible idea of running this line through my backyard, damn near literally. Then as I kept reading, I
noticed the hearing was listed as yesterday... I mean if that isn't a corrupt BS tactic, I don't know what is. How are you going to
send out a notice of a public hearing after the hearing has taken place. I am deeply disappointed in the effort our city employees
to actually get the publics opinion and not just assume "if no one shows up, then that must mean everyone is in agreement with
our stupid idea to put this line in and bring tons of homeless and addicts to our neighborhood. FOR FREE TOO, because we all
know there won't be shit for security on the light rail. People wonder why this city has been going down hill for the last few
years. Well, this for sure is going to accelerate the decline. I hope you can see this from our point of view, and not just a political
one.
Sincerely,
Dylan
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John Sutter
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
C. avakey
Wednesday, August 21, 2024 6:24 PM
John Sutter
Blue Line Extention
I think it it a great ideal to extend the light rail the transportation in Crystal to Brooklyn Park Is not that great at all I have to walk
or get an Uber or Lyft just to go to Robbinsdale Transit to get to the airport! I would like the Blue Line Extension to proceed
Thank you
Cecelia Avakey
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John Sutter
From:Thea Spranger
Sent:Wednesday, August 21, 2024 6:48 PM
To:John Sutter
Subject:Blue Line Extension - open house on 8/20
Hi John,
I am writing to express my frustration. We received a post card in the mail regarding this open house TODAY, the day after the
open house. That is terrible, to hold a public meeting but not adequately inform the people who are affected by the outcome,
who would actually USE this line, and are already frustrated at the delays and unkept promises of this project.
Sincerely,
Thea Spranger
(Crystal resident 11 years, Brooklyn Park resident going on 11 years)
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John Sutter
From:George Lupercio
Sent:Wednesday, August 21, 2024 7:01 PM
To:John Sutter
Subject:Blue Line Extension Project
Good Evening,
My name is Jorge Lupercio and i live in Crystal. I wasn’t able to make the hearing as I received my notice a day after the hearing
but I would like to voice and vote in favor of the Blue Line Extension Project.
Not only would it provide a means of transpiration for residents who don’t otherwise have the luxury of a vehicle, but it would
also give those who have no choice but to use a vehicle they can’t afford another option. It may also reduce traffic congestion of
residents have another choice.
In addition to transportation, it could also provide local businesses new customers that may not otherwise visit the area.
The opportunities for the communities are endless. It’s a clear choice and I hope we can all collectively support the project
Thank you,
Jorge Lupercio
6500 44th Ave N, Minneapolis, MN 55428
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John Sutter
From:Gary Peterson
Sent:Thursday, August 22, 2024 7:18 AM
To:John Sutter
Subject:Blue Line
My neighborhood received the Open House post card yesterday, a day after the meeting. Wow!
Gary Peterson
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John Sutter
From:Kathleen Cottrell
Sent:Thursday, August 22, 2024 9:07 AM
To:John Sutter
Subject:Blue Line Extension
Good Morning John Sutter:
I was unable to attend the open public meeting in August20 for the discussion of the Blue Line Extension. As a new resident of
Crystal, I am very concerned about bringing up a train Line from the inner city of Minneapolis. We may be opening a door to
crime in this peaceful area. Minneapolis has a history of crime and also trouble with safety riding the extension lines. People may
be excited about the ease of having a line into the city but may be opening themselves up to trouble. As one who respects every
citizen and hope they are safely taken care of.
Sincerely,
Kathleen Cottrell
Sent from my iPhone
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John Sutter
From:James Ehlen
Sent:Thursday, August 22, 2024 9:30 AM
To:John Sutter
Subject:No Blue Line
The B.L. is a bad idea since it reduces lanes on 81. If moving people is the goal than there should be a bus now. This is an obvious
self preservation Met C. project.and you should have said no a long time ago. 81 is a great road lets keep it that way.
The over pass is an unnecessary appeasment.
Light Rail with ugly over head wires is out dated technology,
To expensive for the very few it serves while slowing traffic for everyone else.
Thank You
James Ehlen 70 year Crystal resident.
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John Sutter
From:Rick Groome
Sent:Thursday, August 22, 2024 11:00 AM
To:John Sutter
Subject:Blue Line
We just received a post card mentioning a meeting that happened yesterday, so we couldn't get to the meeting.
In line with "telling you what we think" -- Please put us down as strongly against this stupid cho-cho train !!! You
could buy Cadillac's for all the riders of the other lines that we're already stuck with and be more efficient with public
funds.
They are a stupid idea!
I'm sure you'll probably go ahead with this horrible project anyways, but at least I've said my piece.
Rick Groome
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John Sutter
From:Aimee MacPherson
Sent:Friday, August 23, 2024 1:13 PM
To:John Sutter
Subject:Metro Blue Line Extension
Good afternoon, Mr. Sutter-
I am reaching out to express my concern over the proposed Metro Blue Extension through our
community.
First, I was disappointed to have received the hearing notice postcard in my mailbox on August 21, the
day AFTER the hearing was held. Since I wasn't in attendance, I was not able to hear possible positive
feedback on this project, if any. However, I struggle to see any favorable outcome.
I didn't have to spend much time researching the topic to find plenty of evidence showing the negative
impact that implementing public transportation has on crime in a community. A study done by a
student at the University of Akron Department of Economics showed that the creation of a new bus line
through Cleveland "caused an increase in the mean property crime rate in the census tracts touching
that line by about 1.4%. This provides evidence that public transportation does in fact increase crime
rates in areas surrounding it" (Neiss, 2015). In another interesting experiment conducted in the
Washington, DC area while their Metro Transit Authority Train stations were undergoing extensive
renovations, crime data was collected which found that "closing one station reduces the aggregate
level of crime across the rail system within ¼ mile of stations. This effect is concentrated entirely at
other stations on the same line as the closed station, where crime falls by 5%" (Phillips & Sandler,
2015).
Additionally, the table below, from the US Department of Transportation Bureau of Transportation
Statistics, shows a steady increase in crime on light rail transportation.
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The communities of Crystal and Brooklyn Center are plagued by crime. The statistics available online
for Brooklyn Center show an increase in crime over the past 3 years, with the current average crime
rate of almost 30%. That's astonishing, not in a good way.
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The statistics for Crystal aren't much better. While the online tool isn't quite as informative, I could only provide a month's
snapshot, otherwise the data on the graph wasn't even consumable.
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In the past eight weeks, Crystal and Brooklyn Center police have dealt with at least two major
disruptions at Becker and Kylawn parks that resulted in the parks being closed after officers deemed
them “unmanageable and creating an unsafe situation for all at the park" (Knudsen, 2024). Just this
past weekend, another "park takeover" occured (Bork, 2024). In the first event, on July 3, police
stated, "Large groups of juveniles arriving at the park by ride-share will be turned away prior to exiting
their vehicles" (Knudsen, 2024). How, exactly, are Metro Transit Police going to handle this inevitable
situation at a Blue Line station right outside Becker Park?! Is there a plan in place for this scenario?
Has this recent phenomenon been addressed in the "design elements" mentioned on the postcard?
The map above translates the crime class timeline chart into map form. The proposed locations of
these Blue Line stops are already the highest concentrated crime areas. What are the plans for
increased policing in these areas?
I am a Brooklyn Center homeowner. I live on 57th Ave. N, just two blocks off of Brooklyn Boulevard.
From my backyard, I can hear the recording from the police camera in the CVS parking lot and I can
see the piles of trash in the median left by the panhandlers. I have witnessed a half dozen people exit
the Metro Transit bus on Xerxes and 55th Ave., pull out their cardboard signs and disseminate across
my community to various corners to beg for money. While panhandling itself is not against the law,
standing in the medians is against Brooklyn Center City Ordinance Section 25-1100. Yet, this activity
remains highly unpolicied. This issue isn't localized to Brooklyn Center. I have been verbally accosted
at the window of my vehicle at the intersection of Bass Lake Rd. and West Broadway in Crystal by a
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person asking for money who was offended when I told him no. It's not a mystery why the Brookdale
area immediately surrounding the Metro Transit Station on Bass Lake Road is a hotbed for crime.
What good, exactly, do the decision makers think will come of adding Blue Line stops to these
communities? Statistics, studies, experiments, they all show, unfortunately, that the implementation of
public transportation will increase crime in the surrounding communities. When these communities are
already wildly unsuccessful in managing the crime that exists here, why are we inviting more? Do you
live in this community, Mr. Sutter? Do you shop and dine here? Do you pay taxes here? Do the other
decision makers of this project live, shop, dine, or pay taxes here? What are the expectations of the
citizens of these communities? Should we all agree to an increase in taxes, yet a decrease in property
value? Agree to an increase in crime, while we experience a decrease in community satisfaction? Those
expectations are highly unreasonable.
Regards,
Aimee MacPherson
Bork, C. (2024, August 19). Weekend disturbances: Brooklyn center police respond to Kylawn
Park, Crystal preemptively closes Becker Park. CCX Media. https://ccxmedia.org/news/weekend-
disturbances-brooklyn-center-police-respond-to-kylawn-park-crystal-preemptively-closes-becker-
park/
Brooklyn Center Crime Map. Experience. (n.d.).
https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/1baf7e98ab09488f86c718c7a6c43ab5
City of Crystal - Reports and Statistics. LexisNexis® Community crime map. (n.d.).
https://communitycrimemap.com/?address=Crystal%2C+MN
Knudsen, C. (2024, July 4). Crystal police to monitor Becker Park after weekend gathering led to
fights, 6 arrests. KSTP.com 5 Eyewitness News. https://kstp.com/kstp-news/local-news/crystal-
police-to-monitor-becker-park-after-weekend-gathering-led-to-fights-6-arrests/
Neiss, M. (2015). Does Public Transit Affect Crime? The Addition of a Bus Line in Cleveland . John
Carroll University: The Journal of Economics and Politics, 22(1), 58–74.
https://doi.org/10.59604/1046-2309.1003
Phillips, D. C., & Sandler, D. (2015). Does public transit spread crime? evidence from temporary
rail station closures. Regional Science and Urban Economics, 52, 13–26.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.regsciurbeco.2015.02.001
Security events of crime by transit mode. Security Events of Crime by Transit Mode | Bureau of
Transportation Statistics. (n.d.). https://www.bts.gov/content/reports-violent-crime-property-
crime-and-arrests-transit-mode
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John Sutter
From:Joe Harpel
Sent:Wednesday, August 21, 2024 9:10 PM
To:John Sutter
Subject:METRO Blue Line Extension municipal consent comments
Mr. Sutter,
My name is Joe Harpel and I have been a home owner in Crystal for the last 10 years. I wanted to share that I DO NOT SUPPORT
the light rail extension and feel it will be detrimental to local businesses, and will bring more crime to the city.
I experienced this first hand when the light rail was brought through the UofM campus. Many business did not survive, and the
UMN is still dealing with the result of the added crime brought into campus every day due to the light rail.
As with most political decisions, I imagine my voice does not matter and this is all a formality. Just don't count me in support of
this money suck for the state of Minnesota.
Thanks,
Joe Harpel
**** This is an EXTERNAL email - which originated outside of the City of Crystal. Please exercise caution. DO NOT open
attachments or click links from unknown senders or in unexpected email from known senders. ****
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John Sutter
From:Renee A. Weiss
Sent:Monday, August 26, 2024 11:28 AM
To:John Sutter
Subject:Blue Line Extension
John
Unfortunately I was not available to attend the open house/public hearing this past week in regards to the metro blue line
extending in and through Crystal.
I am completely opposed to this coming to our town. It will drastically change the dynamics and especially the safety of our
community. We purchased our house in 1997 thinking we were going to live there for five years then move to another
community. We have grown to love the area, it’s conveniences and small town, quiet feel. As new people have moved to the
neighborhood over the years, we all comment how quiet and safe the neighborhood has been.
Once the blue line, aka “crime line” passes through Crystal, especially having a station, the amount of crime, drug traffic and sex
traffic will increase. I am sure you have seen plenty of evidence of that where the light rail currently exists in MN, not to
mention nationwide transit reports. Becker park has already been “stormed” multiple times this year. The Crystal PD has been
doing an outstanding job addressing this when they can, but it will only amplify and exhaust our first responders, cost tax pay ers
more money to add hire additional officers, if they are willing to work in the area.
When the light was first implemented to the metro I was very excited and used it from downtown to MSP. I had used it at the
beginning but in no time it felt very unsafe to me as an individual, not to mention the times I’d bring my children with me. As
much as the Met Council may try to say the transit will have an officer on it, they will not be able to control the all areas of and
the impact on the neighborhoods. Crystal will have to deal with the impact.
I don’t see this as an opportunity to bring more people to local businesses or even businesses expanding into our community. I
understand the people who lack transportation might benefit if they can tolerate the risk of their safety. I feel it is inhuma n to
put the vulnerable people on the light rail. I think we have better options to provide for the vulnerable and those without
personal transportation. We still have a great bus system, Metro transit and Uber. Maybe the city can provide tax payer
funded support to “uber style” rides to work and doctor appointments for those who can provide documentation of need.
I hate to see how the value of our housing will decline once the crime line comes in because we know that decreases the
amount of tax funds received by the city and will also change the demographics of our community.
Thank you for taking the time to read this and I hope that we can stop the crime line from coming through and destroying our
great community of Crystal.
Regards,
Renee
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John Sutter
From:Shingo Mathieu
Sent:Thursday, August 22, 2024 10:33 AM
To:John Sutter
Subject:METRO Blue Line Extension municipal consent comments
Hello John,
I wish I could have made the meeting on the 20th however I still needed to comment that this project must go through. The
reason being is multifold all of which not unknown to you however many of my neighbors do not agree with the benefits of
having light rail coming through their neighborhood. It must be known that these people are calling the train the "poverty train"
and is a dog whistle for Low Key Racism. They are part of a racist and fascist movement and will basically attempt to thwart any
societal improvements we deem necessary from a practical standpoint.
While the viewpoint of the public should be heard and understood that should be counterbalanced with the needs of the
community and future prosperity through major infrastructure works like this. I have traveled the world many times over and
this country is super far behind the rest of the industrialized world with regards to mass transit and these Nazis cannot and must
not prevent this country from fixing things that must be fixed.
To be clear I am very pro-trained and want this project pushed through at all costs. Thank you
Shingo Mathieu
5756 Nevada Ave N
Crystal MN 55428
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John Sutter
From:Kathryn Fernholz
Sent:Thursday, August 22, 2024 4:59 PM
To:John Sutter
Subject:Blue line extension project
Dear Community Development Director,
I am a 24 year resident and homeowner in Crystal (Skyway neighborhood). I am looking forward to the extension of the Blue Line
light rail line to serve Bass Lake Road. I anticipate using it frequently to get to work in downtown Minneapolis, to enjoy Twins
games, and for travel to the airport. I have access to a car and am able to drive, but I greatly prefer using transit. I have used the
bus system and light rail for many years and look forward to the expanded service.
Thank you for the opportunity to express my support for this project.
Sincerely,
K. Fernholz
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John Sutter
From:Elsa Kendig
Sent:Monday, August 26, 2024 8:00 AM
To:John Sutter
Subject:In Support of Blue Line Extension
Dear Mr. Sutter,
I am writing to express my support for the Blue Line extension running along Bottineau Blvd/Hwy 81. I am excited for the ways
this will not only benefit me, but much of our community.
I currently work in St. Paul not far off Dale and Grand. I try to commute by bike at least once a week, at times using the light rail
to cover part of the 14 mile distance. Were the line to be extended however, I would be able to use it not only when the
weather is bad, but perhaps 3-4 times a week as it would be so much more convenient. For me this would be a real, logical
choice since my sister and I, who room together, only own one car between us, and often find that it can be quite limiting for
each of our schedules as only one can use the car at a time.
Additionally, this would be a huge benefit to others in the community both in terms of income coming into the community along
that line as well as employment opportunities going back into the city for those for whom driving is physically or economically
not viable. Crystal is already a thriving community, but could only benefit further from being both more connected to the
economic center of our region, and by diversifying how it serves multiple transportation methods, thereby lowering traffic
demand and increasing the safety of our community.
My one request is that the city consider how secure bike parking could be added near the stops in our area so that the power of
this line could be magnified through multi-modal connections.
All the best as you continue to bring much needed efficient and reliable public transport to our area.
With thanks,
Elsa Kendig
Resident
3416 Noble Ave.,
Crystal, MN
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John Sutter
From:Mikayla deVries
Sent:Thursday, August 29, 2024 3:31 PM
To:John Sutter
Subject:Metro Blue Line extension Concerns
Hi,
My name is Mikayla and I am a citizen of Crystal, MN. I am writing to you concerning the Metro Blue Line Extension that is
proposed to run along County Road 81.
First, I would like to say that I was not pleased with the fact that I received the Crystal open house/public hearing postcard
invitation the day after the hearing was scheduled. This should have been sent out at least a week in advance. This was not
considerate and made it so that myself (and many, many other citizens of Crystal) could not attend to express our opinion on the
matter. Please keep this in mind for future projects/hearings.
My concerns about the blue line extension are as follows:
1. Proximity of the proposed Bass Lake Road station to Becker Park
2.Increase of traffic in Crystal
3.Escalation of crime and homelessness in Crystal
First, I am concerned about the proximity of the proposed Bass Lake Road station to Becker Park. Becker Park is located right
along the Bass Lake Road and Co. Rd. 81 intersection. This is by far the nicest, most-utilized park in Crystal. Families feel safe
bringing their children to the lavish park with pickleball courts, basketball courts, a splash pad, and state-of-the art playground
equipment. If this line ends up running along 81 and a station goes up at the Bass Lake Road intersection, I will no longer feel
safe bringing my family to the park. Myself, as well as the other families of Crystal, will have to be even more wary of the
increased foot traffic, not to mention put up with the bustle and noise. It is also not safe to have a metro line run so close to the
park where children are free to run around, increasing their likelihood of getting hurt.
Second, I am concerned about the increase of traffic in Crystal. As is, we are already congested along Bass Lake road. The
increase of traffic would only make it worse. There would also be an increase in foot traffic. Littering is a constant issue in
Crystal, especially in the shopping center area along Bass Lake Road. It is despicable how people can care so little about the state
of the city. An increase in foot traffic with the station will undoubtedly make the situation more severe.
Finally, I am concerned about the escalation of crime and homelessness in Crystal that will come with the blue line
extension. This is my main issue with the proposed extension. To begin, the bus stops we have around town right now are where
the drug addicts and homeless people camp out. The light rail station will undoubtedly attract those types of people, as well as
facilitate their lifestyle. When I drive through Minneapolis and Brooklyn Park along the proposed light rail routes, the bus stops
there are a hundred times worse. Everyone in the stops look like they live there, and it frightens me to think that they will have
direct and easy transportation to our own city. The proposed light rail stations, while they may be a help to some, will become a
hub for drug users for dealing and homeless people for camping out. Due to this increase of all sorts of traffic, there will be more
petty theft and crimes in Crystal. I will no longer feel safe to make my trips to Aldi for my needed groceries if the light rail station
goes up in the intersection just two blocks away. People live in apartments and houses near the proposed station location, and
they should not need to live in an area where problematic individuals are being literally shuttled to their backyard.
Please take these concerns into consideration throughout the review and approval process for the Metro Blue Line
extension. I propose that the line extension be halted, as the benefits of travel do not outweigh the invaluable assets of safety,
peace of mind, and security. We need to try to make the town a safe place for our children to grow up in and have the freedom
to explore, but the light rail and its station areas inhibit that freedom and threaten to bring disorder and harm to the city and
surrounding areas.
Thank you for taking the time to read my concerns about this matter.
6.2
1
John Sutter
From:Richard Cushing
Sent:Thursday, August 29, 2024 7:46 PM
To:John Sutter
Subject:Blue Line Extension Project Office
Importance:High
Dear Mr. Sutter:
We received the mailing inviting us to make our comments known regarding the Metro Blue Line Extension.
Here is my comment. I hope it is clear enough:
In a time when the cost of living is escalating very rapidly for virtually every middle-class citizen in Minnesota,
do we really need to add the burden of yet another light rail line that does not truly run on either diesel fuel or
electricity. Instead, it actually runs by burning bales of taxpayer money. Ridership certainly doesn’t pay for
operating expenses, let alone recovering the capital investment necessary to build it.
Grace to you,
Richard Cushing
6.2
6.2
1
John Sutter
From:Whitney Thorpe
Sent:Saturday, September 7, 2024 5:13 PM
To:John Sutter
Subject:Blue Line Extension
Mr. Sutter,
I am writing to say that my family and I strongly support the Blue Line Extension for light rail in Minnesota. We live just two
blocks from the intersection of Bass Lake Road and HWY 81, and have been anxiously waiting for the start of the construction of
the Blue Line. We have traveled throughout Europe and have seen first hand how convenient rail travel is and how easy it is to
use. We are also citizens concerned with the impacts of climate change and that we need to use every tool at our disposal to
help reduce our use of fossil fuels. Light rail can have a positive effect on reducing the amount of cars driving downtown and
reducing tailpipe emissions. I do know that some suburbs don’t support light rail but I believe their demographics are very
different from that of Brooklyn Park, Crystal and Robbinsdale. Light rail would have a great benefit for the citizens of these cities
by providing affordable transportation. I hope that light rail will continue with its efforts to bring the Blue line to our
communities.
Thank you,
Whitney Thorpe
5714 Zane Ave N
Crystal, MN 55429
6.2
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