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00-868Council Rile # p��(.� oR��NAt Presented Referred To Aequested by Departrnent of: Date WHEREAS, the Legislarive Hearing Officer recommends that license application Bingo Hall License by RK Midway LLC, dba Midway Center Bingo, 1508 Unive approved; / THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Saint appiication. � _ ��`��~ �� i F �.1, �� S �� . Yeas Blakey Co leman Har ris Benanav Re iter B o s irom Lantry Absent � Green Sheet # 104014 �� # 20000003609) for a Avenue West, be approves this license Form Approved by City Attorney � Adopted by Council: Date Adoption Certified 6y�uncil Secretary By: Appmved by May,6r: Date C'�' Approved by Mayor for Submission to Council � � RESOLUTION CITY OF �AINT PAUL, MINNESOTA COURT OF APPEAL5 NUMBER CX-00-1838 DOCUMENT #I City Council Offices Gerry Stxathman, 266-8560 USiBEONCOUNGYLAGENQ4BY(M'f� September 27, 2000 TOTAL # OF SIGNANRE PAGES �� 00 . p�G p' 9-zo-z000 GREEN SHEET No 1 C�;� 0"1 4 u �,..,.�*� u �,.� — ❑ d1YAiiOItlEY � tltYCliM ❑ w�wc4�m�xcrso.� ❑ w/.rcu�.aomKCro � WYORI�I1t9RAMi1 ❑ (CUP ALl IOCATIONS EOR SIGNATURE) .._� Approving application for a Bingo Hall License by RK Midway LLC, DBA Midway Center Bingo, 1508 University Avenue West. PLANNING COMMISSION CB CAMMIT'fEE CIVIL SERVICE CAMMISSION Has mis ae��m e.erwal�a undera co�nsa r«mis dePanmem7 . YES NO tlas ttae c�eoM�m erer heen a dty empbyce9 . YEg NO . Doec this per�rm posBess a sidll not rannalrypossesseG by any curtmt dty employeel Y6 NO k Mis persavTifm a tazgeted ventloYt YES NO �„�,�g�t�i� a ?Ch GG, $�°Y �� ?��fl OFTRANSAGTION (E(PLRIN) ACTIVITYNUMBER (qRCLEON� YEE NO _'—'---- ---� � I couxa oF ArrEai,s AIUMBER CX-00.1838 , �O ��. MINUTES OF Tf� LEGISLATIVE HEARING MIDWAY CENTER BINGO - 1508 UNIVERSITY AVENUE WEST Monday, September 18, 2000 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Straflunan, Legislative Hearing Officer Staff Present: Dave Nelmazk, License, Inspection, Environmental Protection (LIEP); Christine Rozek, LIEP; Larry Zangs, LIEP The meeting was called to order at 10:02 a.m. Gerry Strathman stated this meeting is being held to heaz objections to a license by RK Midway LLC. Christine Rozek, Deputy Director of LIEP, reported this is an application for RK Midway LLC, doing business as Midway Bingo Center at 1508 University Avenue West in the Midway Shopping Center. Licensing has approved the application. Fire inspection will approve this upon final inspection. Zoning has questions about parking information. Lany Zangs reported the parking looks fine, but he needs some explanaxion on some of the numbers. He wiil defer his decision on the parking untii he hears from the applicant. Ms. Rozek stated this bingo hali is within two miles of an existing bingo hall. There will need to be a resolution to waive the two mile distance requirement. Also present is Dave Nelmazk who deals with gambling licenses in case there are questions about the gambling aspect of the bingo hall. Don Ludemami, President of Snelling Hamline Community Council, 1573 Se1by Avenue #311, appeared and stated neighbors have expressed some concerns. His understanding is the hearing today only addresses the application by RK Midway to operate a bingo hall. He asked would there be another hearing regarding the other four tenants because the letter he sent in objection addressed the gambling licenses as we11. Gerry Strathman stated the fact that Mr. Ludemann was objecting to the gamblang licenses got missed. Ae asked could the gambling license applications be deait with this morning. Ms. Rozek responded present aze representatives from all the organizations that intend to conduct charitable gambling. Mr. Strathman stated he will deal with the bingo hall application and the gambling applicafions at this meeting. The only people to come to these public hearings are interested parties and the interested parties aze here. Mr. Lademann stated it is a business friendly neighborhood. The community council was notified in August when many residents were on vacation. Paula Maccabee offered to come to their board meeting to help explain things, but the organization was unable to accommodate her. The waiver requirement reads that a waiver will be granted when it will provide economic development benefits without significant negative impact on residential or commercial uses. Mr. COURT OF APPEALS NUMBER CX-00-1835 DOCUMENT #2 . • � •s MIDWAY CENT`ER BINGO, 1508 University Avenue West, 9-18-2000 Page 2 Ludemann asked will that be a City Council issue. Mr. Strathman responded he would not hold a legislafive hearing on the waiver issue; that would go directly to the City Council. Mr. Ludemann stated University United is a group of district councils all along University Avenue. The Midway Chamber of Commerce is also a member. They were involved i� the development of two guidelines. One of those guidelines encourages vacant buildings to be rebuilt and vacant lots to be redeveloped as quickly as possible so there is not an appearance of neglect on the auenue; therefore, he is happy that RK Midway is going to fill some of the space. One concem is the pazking in the south iot and that the bingo hall would get in the way of redevelopment of that lot. Mr. Ludemann requested an annual renewal so that future development of that lot would not be delayed. He asked does this license have a term, Ms. Rozek responded it is renewable in two yeazs. Mr. Ludemann wants to minimize massive asphalt in the parking lots. The design outlines suggest trees should be planted in parking Iots: one tree per every 25 parking spots. He would like RK Midway to consider landscaping to make St more aesthetically pleasing. Mr. Ludemann is also concerned about people preying on the bingo players. He would like to know the plans for security, cameras, lighting. Also, he is concerned about signage. He hopes it does not add to the clutter of the signage on the avenue. The following appeared: Paula Macaabee, consultant to RK Midway, and Joe Finley, attorney and applicant. Ms. Maccabee stated the design guidelines encourage vacant buildings to be filled to avoid the appeazance of neglect. The ordinance looks at the potential of waiver when it provides economic benefit. The bingo hall is filling 2,000 square feet of space that was vacant for 15 years. The current estimate of improvement to bring this properiy up to code is about $700,000. According to the University design guidelines refened to by Mr. Ludemann, this part of University is suppose to be a regional shopping center. This bingo hall will bring in about 15,000 customers a month, many of whom are middle class working people and many aze women who will make a whole day of shopping or eating out. Ms. Maccabee staxed this bingo ha11 is unlikely to have an impact an neighborhoods. It is more than 75Q feet away from the nearest residence; therefore, some of the concerns that may apply in other neighborhoods about tr�c, do not apply here. Also, it is tucked at the back of the center; the concern about visibility and perception will not take piace here. Potentiai redevelopment is a concern of the. developer also, stated Ms. Maccabee. RK Midway has made significant inveshnents in lighting and in trees. The reason there is not a plan submitted for landscaping is because it might interfere with potential redevelopment. (Joe Finley gave Gerry Stratlunau the following: drawing of signage, zoning map azea, a composite site p1an, parking calculations, a copy of the deed to prove they own the center, certificate showing ownership, and the plat filed.) COIJRT OF APPEALS NiJMBER CX-00-1838 C� C�-- �SC� �S MIDWAY CENTER BINGO, 1508 University Avenue West, 9-18-2000 Page 3 Joe Finley explained the location of the bingo hall in conjunction with other businesses in the area. The bingo hall is not near any residential development. RK Midway had proposed several things for the back lot, but there was a poilution issue there. Now the pollution has been handied, and the back lot can be developed. They have run several pazking scenarios with a bingo hall, hotel, and restaurant being built. They have also run the pazking figures and have come up with 1,408. The existing lot has 1,396. Their goai is to redevelop the five acre piece of land. Mr. Strathman stated the signage looks consistent with other signs on the building. Tom Bina, contractor, responded it will be sunilar to other signage on the Midway Shopping Center. Michael Michlitsch, 3870 Ef&ess Road, White Bear Lake, appeared and stated he is currently representing the charities moving into the proposed site. The four chariries have been involved for at least nine years, specifically in bingo and pull tabs: 1) Midway Training Services offers services to people with developmental disabilities, 2) Midway Transportation provides transportation to people with disabilities, 3) Church of the Holy Childhood, and 4) St. Mary's Greek Orthodox Church. Thep currently all hold a Class A license at Midway Bingo Palace on Le�ngton and University. AIl four organizations depend on the funds from charitable gambling. Mr. Michlitsch assumes the security at 1508 University will be similar to the Lexington and Universiry site in that it will have a uniform security person during the evening sessions to assist any customers that would like to be walked to a vehicle. They have had few problems in the last nine years. The bingo ha11 will also use a private securiry service and off duty Saint Paul Police Officers. Midway Shopping Center also has security in a vehicle available in the evenings. Mr. Ludemann stated this wili be an entirely different environment. There will be more traffic and more crime. Mr. Finley responded he believes that most of the people in the Midway - Shopping Center are good people and shoppers. Crimes of opportunity will d'ecrease because there wiil be more witnesses. The bingo operation will be located in the center. This is a true economic benefit to Midway 5hopping Center and the whole community. People who are transportation disadvantaged can now make a trip to the bingo hall and go shopping. Mr. Finley has represented the owner of the shopping center for yeus; if there is a problem, the owner will address it. Mr. Finley hopes Mr. Strathman will not lose sight of the fact that this is a permitted use. This space is an eyesore right now and cannot be rented. It will be gutted, a new exterior added, and new bathrooms. Ms. Rozek asked about an on site manager of the facility. Mr. Michlitsch responded it has not been decided who will be the manager, but there will be one. Ms. Rozek asked about hours of operation. Mr. Michlitsch responded they propose to be open seven days a week. Doors wouid open at noon, bingo would start at 1:Q0, and be over with at 4:00. Doors would reopen again at about 6:00 p.m. and bingo would start at 7:00 and again at 9:00. People will be out of the hall by 11:00 p.m. They have talked about having a late night COURT OF APPEALS NIJMSER CX-00-1838 �� • •. MIDWAX CENTER BINCzO, 1508 University Avenue West, 9-18-2000 Page 4 session at 11:00 p.m. and people would be out by 1:00 a.m. However, they are limited to 21 sessions that they can be open in a week. Ms. Rozek asked about lighting. Mr. Michlitsch responded there will be a new enirance with sufficient lighting. Midway Bingo-will use 130 to 135 pazking spaces on their busiest night. He would assume ail those people will park close to the building. At least 1/4 of the space is within a short walking distance of the front door. Mr. Bina stated the landlord has provided adequate lighting in the facility. There is pazking lot lighting in the back right now, which should be adequate. The landlord is concerned about safety also and said he would take any lighting and quadruple it. Dave Nelmazk reported there aze no outstanding obligations against the four charities. They are good citizens in the community. Ellen Watters, President of Midway Chamber of Commerce, appeared to speak in support of the license application. The neighborhood's concerns have been articulated and addressed. This business will add to the potential of redevelopment. This location provides a good opportunity for the continued health of the bingo hall users and the potential for redevelopment of the site. The increased activity that the customers witl bring is a positive in terms of increased purchasing and activity. As for crime prevention, the more people around, the more positive environment is created. Lighting and security are nnportant. A beat cop is working from 10:00 a.m. to 7 p.m. If crime becomes a huge problem, the Chamber of Commerce will be in line with the neighbors saying this needs to be fixed. Ms. Watters stated Midway Training Services is an important pariner in the continued health of the Midway. They help the Chamber of Commerce pick up shopping carts in the azea and trash. Mr. Strathman asked is the parking adequate. Mr. Zangs responded it is. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of this license application. He understands a11 the issues raised. It seems the applicant has satisfactorily addressed the issues. The signage seems appropriate. The security plans seem reasonable. He understands the reticence about doing landscaping in the pazking lot because of potendal development. Location makes pazking less of a visual problem than in a more residential neighborhood. There is no reason to limit the 13cense beyond the customary term of two yeazs. There will be another resolution for a variance from the required two miles between bingo locations, but that wili be a public hearing before the City Council. The meeting was adjourued at 10:54 a.m. (Note: Larry Zangs retained some of the items given to Gerry Strathman at this meeting.) rrn COURT OF APPEALS NUMBER CX-00-1838 Council File # O 0 — $'(� OR4GINAL Presented Referred To RESOLUTION CITY OF �AINT PAUL, MINNESOTA Date WHEREAS, the Legislative Hearing Officer recommends that license application Bingo Hall License by RK Midway LLC, dba Midway Center Bingo, 1508 Unive approved; / TI�REFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Saint application. N �� i �.1, �� S � $ �, Y B lakey Co leman Haz ris Be nanav R e it er Bosh Lantry � Green Sheet # 104414 �� # 20000003609) for a Avenue VJest, be approves this license Form Approved by City Attomey � Adopted by Council: Daze Adoption Certified by uncil Secretary By: Approved by Ma r: Date By: Aequested by Department o£ Approved by Mayor for Submission to Council � Ci�y Council Offices Strathman, 266-$560 September 27, 2000 TOTAL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES 9-ZO-z000 I GREEN SHEET �C'p'�8' No1nr r:±� V �� .: ' ■ u �� „�.. _ F � ❑ CR1'AiiW1EY ❑ GIYGiAR � ❑ rww�sEaxccrsooc ❑ nuxo��um�.ccro ❑ wWI1lulAfmTMln ❑ (CUP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATUR� Approving application for a Bingo Hall License by RK Midway LLC, DBA Midway Center Bingo, 1508 University Avenue West. PLANNIt3G CAMMISSION Ct6 CAMMITTEE CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION Hes llue P�eoMrm everwarked untler a ca�6act Torthis depertm¢nl� YES N6 Flas thie RNeoMrm e�er been a cilY emWuYee4 YES NO • Does ihis P�� D� a sidll r� namalbP� bY �Y cunent cdY emGbYee7 YES NO b Mis pereonlfirm a terpe[ed vendoY! YES NO ° �l�+;tCrFj y:{o4.G..,� S �„c.�.,vs s,�8�icc5 4S.(� � � �� OF TRANSACTION S SOURCE COST/REVENYE BUOOETFD (dRCLE ON� ACTNITY NULBER YES NO (��M �o-�� t�_ MINUTES OF T'HE LEGISLATIVE HEARING MIDWAY CENT'ER BINGO - 1508 UNIVERSITY AVENUE WEST Monday, September 18, 2000 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer Staff Present:. Dave Nelmazk, License, Inspecrion, Environmental Protection (LIEP); Christine Rozek, LIEP; Latry Zangs, LIEP The meeting was called to order at 10:02 am. Gerry Strathman stated this meeting is beiug held to hear objections to a license by RK Midway LLC. Cluistine Rozek, Deputy Director of LIEP, reported this is an application for RK Midway LLC, doing business as Midway Bingo Center at 1508 University Avenue West in the Midway Shopping Center. Licensing has approved the applicarion. Fire inspection will approve this upon fmal inspection. Zoning has questions about pazking information. Larry Zangs reported the pazking looks fine, but he needs some explanation on some of the numbers. He will defer his decision on the pazking until he hears from the applicant. Ms. Rozek stated this bingo hall is within two miles of an existing bingo hail. There will need to be a resolution to waive the two mile distance requirement. Also present is Dave Nelmark wha deals with gambling licenses in case there are questions about the gambling aspect of the bingo hall. Don Ludemann, President of Snelling Hamline Community Council, 1573 Selby Avenue #311, appeazed and stated neighbors have expressed some concerns. His understanding is the hearing today only addresses the application by RK Midway to operate a bingo hall. He asked would there be another hearing regazding the other four tenants because the letter he sent in objecfion addressed the gambling licenses as well. Gerry Strathman stated the fact that Mr. Ludemann was objecting to the gambling licenses got missed. He asked could the gambling license applicalions be dealt with this morning. Ms. Rozek responded present aze representatives from all the organizations that intend to conduct charitable gambling. NIr. Strathman stated he will deal with the bingo hail applicafion and the gambling applications at this meeting. The only people to come to these public hearings are interested parties and the interested parties are here. Mr. Ludemann stated it is a business friendly neighborhood. The community council was notified in August when many residents were on vacation. Paula Maccabee offered to come to their boazd meeting to help explain things, but the organizarion was unable to accommodate her. The waiver requirement reads that a waiver will be granted when it will provide economic development benefits without significant negative impact on residential or commercial uses. Mr. �+ . � •: MIDWAY CENTER BINGO, 1508 University Avenue West, 9-18-2000 Page 2 Ludemanu asked will that be a City Council issue. Mr. Strathman responded he would not hold a legislative hearing on the waiver issue; that would go directly to the City Council. Mr. Ludemann stated University United is a group of district councils all along University Avenue. The Midway Chamber of Commerce is also a member. They were involved in the development of two guidelines. One of those guidelines encourages vacant buildings to be rebuilt and vacant lots to be redeveloped as quickly as possible so there is not an appeazance of neglect on the avenue; therefore, he is happy that RK Midway is going to fil1 some of the space. One concern is the pazking in the south lot and that the bingo hall would get in the way of redevelopment of that lot. Mr. Ludemann requested an annual renewal so that future development of that lot would not be delayed. He asked does this license have a term. Ms. Rozek responded it is renewable in two yeazs. Mr. Ludemann wants to m;n;mize massive asphalt in the pazking lots. 'I'4ie design outlines suggest trees should be planted in pazking lots: one tree per every 25 parking spots. He would like RK Midway to consider landscaping to make it more aesthetically pleasing. Mr. Ludemann is also concerned about people preying on the bingo players. He would like to know the plans for security, cameras, lighting. A1so, he is concerned about signage. He hopes it does not add to the ciutter of the signage on the avenue. The following appeared: Paula Maccabee, consultant to RK Midway, and Joe Finley, attorney and applicant. Ms. Maccabee stated the design guidelines encourage vacant buildings to be filled to avoid the appearance of neglect. The ordinance looks at the potential of waiver when it provides economic benefit. The bingo hali is filling 2,400 squaze feet of space that was vacant for 15 years. The current estimate of unprovement to bring this property up to code is about $700,000. According to the University design guidelines referred to by Mr. Ludemann, this part of i3niversiry is suppose to be a regional shopping center. This bingo hall wili bring in about 15,000 customers a month, many of whom are middle class working people and many are women who will make a whole day of shopping or eating out. Ms. Maccabee stated this bingo hall is unlikely to have an impact on neighborhoods. It is more than 750 feet away from the nearest residence; therefore, some of the concerns that may apply in other neighborhoods about traffic, do not apply here. Aiso, it is tucked at the back of the center; the concern about visibility and perception will not take place here. Potential redevelopment is a concern of the, developer also, stated Ms. Maccabee. RK Midway has made significant investments in light3ng and in trees. The reason there is not a plan submitted for landscaping is because it might interfere with potential redevelopment. (Joe Finley gave Gerry Strathman the following: drawing of signage, zoning map azea, a composite site plan, pazking calculations, a copy of the deed to prove they own the center, certificate showing ownership, and the plat filed.) � L�--�S� � MIDWAY CENTER BINGO, 1508 University Avenue West, 9-18-2000 Page 3 Joe Finley eapiained the location of the bingo hall in conjunction with other businesses in the azea. The bingo hall is not neaz any residenrial development. RK Midway had proposed several things for the back lot, but there was a pollution issue there. Now the pollution has been handled, and the back lot can be developed. They have run severai parking scenarios with a bingo hall, hotel, and restaurant being built. They have also run the pazking figures and have come up with 1,408. The e�sting lot has 1,396. Their goal is to redevelop the five acre piece of land. Mr. Sirathman stated the signage looks consistent with other signs on the building. Tom Bina, contractor, responded it will be similar to other signage on the Midway Shopping Center. Michael Michiitsch, 3870 Ef&ess Road, White Bear Lake, appeazed and stated he is currently representing the charities moving 'into the proposed site. The four charities have been involved for at least nine yeazs, specifically in bingo and pull tabs: 1) Midway Training Services offers services to people with developmental disabilities, 2) Midway Transportation provides transportarion to people with disabilifies, 3) Church of the Holy Childhood, and 4) St. Mazy's Greek Orthodox Church. They currently all hoid a Class A license at Midway Bingo Palace on Lexington and University. All four organizafions depend on the funds from charitable gambling. Mr. Michlitsch assumes the security at 1508 University wiil be similaz to the Lexington and University site in that it will have a uniform security person during the evening sessions to assist any customers that would like to be waiked to a vehicle. They have had few problems in the last nine yeazs. The bingo hall wili also use a private security service and off duty Saint Paul Police Officers. Midway Shopping Center also has security in a vehicle available in the evenings. Mr. Ludemann stated this will be an entirely different environment. There will be more traffic and more crime. Mr. Finley responded he believes that most of the people in the Midway Shopping Center are good people and shoppers. Crimes of opportunity will decrease because there will be more witnesses. The bingo operation will be located in the center. This is a true economic benefit to Midway Shopping Center and the whole communiry. People who aze transportation disadvantaged can now make a trip to the bingo hall and go shopping. Mr. Finley has represented the owner of the shopping center for yeazs; if there is a problem, the owner will address it. Mr. Finley hopes Mr. Strathman wili not lose sight of the fact that this is a permitted use. This space is an eyesore right now and cannot be rented. It will be gutted, a new exterior added, and new bathrooms. Ms. Rozek asked about an on site manager of the facility. Mr. Michlitsch responded it has not been decided who wiil be the manager, but there will be one. Ms. Rozek asked about hours of operation. Mr. Michlitsch responded they propose to be open seven days a week. Doors would open at noon, bingo would start at 1:00, and be over with at 4:00. Doors would reopen again at about 6:00 p.m. and bingo would start at 7:00 and again at 9:00. People will be out of the hall by 11:00 p.m. They have talked about having a late night �� MIDWAY CENTER BINGO, 1508 University Avenue West, 9-18-2000 Page 4 session at 11:00 p.m. and people would be out by 1:00 a.m. However, they aze limited to 21 sessions that they can be open in a week. Ms. Rozek asked about lighting. Mr. Michlitsch responded there will be a new entrance with sufficient lighting. Midway Bingo will use 130 to 135 pazking spaces on their busiest night. He would assume all those people will pazk close to the building. At least 1/4 of the space is within a short walking distance of the front door. Mr. Bina stated the landlord has provided adequate lighting in the facility. There is pazking lot lighting in the back right now, which should be adequate. The landlord is concerned about safety also and said he would take any lighting and quadruple it. Dave Nelmark reported there aze no outstanding obligations against the four charities. They are good citizens in the community. Ellen Watters, President of Midway Chamber of Commerce, appeazed to speak in support of the license application. The neighborhood's concerns have been articulated and addressed. This business will add to the potential of redevelopment. This location provides a good opportunity for the continued health of the bingo hall users and the potential for redevelopment of the site. The increased activiTy that the customers will bring is a positive in terms of increased purchasing and activity. As for crirne prevention, the more peopie around, the more positive environment is created. Lighting and security are unportant. A beat cop is working from 10:00 a.m. to 7 p.m. If crime becomes a huge problem, the Chamber of Commerce will be in line with the neighbors saying this needs to be fixed. Ms. Watters stated Midway Training Services is an important partner in the continued health of the Midway. They help the Chamber of Commerce pick up shopping carts in the area and trash. Mr. Strathman asked is the parking adequaze. Mr. Zangs responded it is. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of this license application. He understands ail the issues raised. It seems the applicant has satisfactorily addressed the issues. The signage seems appropriate. The security plans seem reasonable. He understands the reticence about doing landscaping in the parking lot because of potential development. Location makes pazking less of a visual problem than in a more residential neighborhood. T'here is no reason to limit the license beyond the customary term of two yeazs. There will be another resolution for a variance from the required two miles beriveen bingo locarions, but that wili be a public hearing before the City Council. The meeting was adjourned at 10:54 a.m. (Note: Larry Zangs retained some of the items given to Gerry Strathman at tlus meeting.) rrn Council Rile # p��(.� oR��NAt Presented Referred To Aequested by Departrnent of: Date WHEREAS, the Legislarive Hearing Officer recommends that license application Bingo Hall License by RK Midway LLC, dba Midway Center Bingo, 1508 Unive approved; / THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Saint appiication. � _ ��`��~ �� i F �.1, �� S �� . Yeas Blakey Co leman Har ris Benanav Re iter B o s irom Lantry Absent � Green Sheet # 104014 �� # 20000003609) for a Avenue West, be approves this license Form Approved by City Attorney � Adopted by Council: Date Adoption Certified 6y�uncil Secretary By: Appmved by May,6r: Date C'�' Approved by Mayor for Submission to Council � � RESOLUTION CITY OF �AINT PAUL, MINNESOTA COURT OF APPEAL5 NUMBER CX-00-1838 DOCUMENT #I City Council Offices Gerry Stxathman, 266-8560 USiBEONCOUNGYLAGENQ4BY(M'f� September 27, 2000 TOTAL # OF SIGNANRE PAGES �� 00 . p�G p' 9-zo-z000 GREEN SHEET No 1 C�;� 0"1 4 u �,..,.�*� u �,.� — ❑ d1YAiiOItlEY � tltYCliM ❑ w�wc4�m�xcrso.� ❑ w/.rcu�.aomKCro � WYORI�I1t9RAMi1 ❑ (CUP ALl IOCATIONS EOR SIGNATURE) .._� Approving application for a Bingo Hall License by RK Midway LLC, DBA Midway Center Bingo, 1508 University Avenue West. PLANNING COMMISSION CB CAMMIT'fEE CIVIL SERVICE CAMMISSION Has mis ae��m e.erwal�a undera co�nsa r«mis dePanmem7 . YES NO tlas ttae c�eoM�m erer heen a dty empbyce9 . YEg NO . Doec this per�rm posBess a sidll not rannalrypossesseG by any curtmt dty employeel Y6 NO k Mis persavTifm a tazgeted ventloYt YES NO �„�,�g�t�i� a ?Ch GG, $�°Y �� ?��fl OFTRANSAGTION (E(PLRIN) ACTIVITYNUMBER (qRCLEON� YEE NO _'—'---- ---� � I couxa oF ArrEai,s AIUMBER CX-00.1838 , �O ��. MINUTES OF Tf� LEGISLATIVE HEARING MIDWAY CENTER BINGO - 1508 UNIVERSITY AVENUE WEST Monday, September 18, 2000 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Straflunan, Legislative Hearing Officer Staff Present: Dave Nelmazk, License, Inspection, Environmental Protection (LIEP); Christine Rozek, LIEP; Larry Zangs, LIEP The meeting was called to order at 10:02 a.m. Gerry Strathman stated this meeting is being held to heaz objections to a license by RK Midway LLC. Christine Rozek, Deputy Director of LIEP, reported this is an application for RK Midway LLC, doing business as Midway Bingo Center at 1508 University Avenue West in the Midway Shopping Center. Licensing has approved the application. Fire inspection will approve this upon final inspection. Zoning has questions about parking information. Lany Zangs reported the parking looks fine, but he needs some explanaxion on some of the numbers. He wiil defer his decision on the parking untii he hears from the applicant. Ms. Rozek stated this bingo hali is within two miles of an existing bingo hall. There will need to be a resolution to waive the two mile distance requirement. Also present is Dave Nelmazk who deals with gambling licenses in case there are questions about the gambling aspect of the bingo hall. Don Ludemami, President of Snelling Hamline Community Council, 1573 Se1by Avenue #311, appeared and stated neighbors have expressed some concerns. His understanding is the hearing today only addresses the application by RK Midway to operate a bingo hall. He asked would there be another hearing regarding the other four tenants because the letter he sent in objection addressed the gambling licenses as we11. Gerry Strathman stated the fact that Mr. Ludemann was objecting to the gamblang licenses got missed. Ae asked could the gambling license applications be deait with this morning. Ms. Rozek responded present aze representatives from all the organizations that intend to conduct charitable gambling. Mr. Strathman stated he will deal with the bingo hall application and the gambling applicafions at this meeting. The only people to come to these public hearings are interested parties and the interested parties aze here. Mr. Lademann stated it is a business friendly neighborhood. The community council was notified in August when many residents were on vacation. Paula Maccabee offered to come to their board meeting to help explain things, but the organization was unable to accommodate her. The waiver requirement reads that a waiver will be granted when it will provide economic development benefits without significant negative impact on residential or commercial uses. Mr. COURT OF APPEALS NUMBER CX-00-1835 DOCUMENT #2 . • � •s MIDWAY CENT`ER BINGO, 1508 University Avenue West, 9-18-2000 Page 2 Ludemann asked will that be a City Council issue. Mr. Strathman responded he would not hold a legislafive hearing on the waiver issue; that would go directly to the City Council. Mr. Ludemann stated University United is a group of district councils all along University Avenue. The Midway Chamber of Commerce is also a member. They were involved i� the development of two guidelines. One of those guidelines encourages vacant buildings to be rebuilt and vacant lots to be redeveloped as quickly as possible so there is not an appearance of neglect on the auenue; therefore, he is happy that RK Midway is going to fill some of the space. One concem is the pazking in the south iot and that the bingo hall would get in the way of redevelopment of that lot. Mr. Ludemann requested an annual renewal so that future development of that lot would not be delayed. He asked does this license have a term, Ms. Rozek responded it is renewable in two yeazs. Mr. Ludemann wants to minimize massive asphalt in the parking lots. The design outlines suggest trees should be planted in parking Iots: one tree per every 25 parking spots. He would like RK Midway to consider landscaping to make St more aesthetically pleasing. Mr. Ludemann is also concerned about people preying on the bingo players. He would like to know the plans for security, cameras, lighting. Also, he is concerned about signage. He hopes it does not add to the clutter of the signage on the avenue. The following appeared: Paula Macaabee, consultant to RK Midway, and Joe Finley, attorney and applicant. Ms. Maccabee stated the design guidelines encourage vacant buildings to be filled to avoid the appeazance of neglect. The ordinance looks at the potential of waiver when it provides economic benefit. The bingo hall is filling 2,000 square feet of space that was vacant for 15 years. The current estimate of improvement to bring this properiy up to code is about $700,000. According to the University design guidelines refened to by Mr. Ludemann, this part of University is suppose to be a regional shopping center. This bingo hall will bring in about 15,000 customers a month, many of whom are middle class working people and many aze women who will make a whole day of shopping or eating out. Ms. Maccabee staxed this bingo ha11 is unlikely to have an impact an neighborhoods. It is more than 75Q feet away from the nearest residence; therefore, some of the concerns that may apply in other neighborhoods about tr�c, do not apply here. Also, it is tucked at the back of the center; the concern about visibility and perception will not take piace here. Potentiai redevelopment is a concern of the. developer also, stated Ms. Maccabee. RK Midway has made significant inveshnents in lighting and in trees. The reason there is not a plan submitted for landscaping is because it might interfere with potential redevelopment. (Joe Finley gave Gerry Stratlunau the following: drawing of signage, zoning map azea, a composite site p1an, parking calculations, a copy of the deed to prove they own the center, certificate showing ownership, and the plat filed.) COIJRT OF APPEALS NiJMBER CX-00-1838 C� C�-- �SC� �S MIDWAY CENTER BINGO, 1508 University Avenue West, 9-18-2000 Page 3 Joe Finley explained the location of the bingo hall in conjunction with other businesses in the area. The bingo hall is not near any residential development. RK Midway had proposed several things for the back lot, but there was a poilution issue there. Now the pollution has been handied, and the back lot can be developed. They have run several pazking scenarios with a bingo hall, hotel, and restaurant being built. They have also run the pazking figures and have come up with 1,408. The existing lot has 1,396. Their goai is to redevelop the five acre piece of land. Mr. Strathman stated the signage looks consistent with other signs on the building. Tom Bina, contractor, responded it will be sunilar to other signage on the Midway Shopping Center. Michael Michlitsch, 3870 Ef&ess Road, White Bear Lake, appeared and stated he is currently representing the charities moving into the proposed site. The four chariries have been involved for at least nine years, specifically in bingo and pull tabs: 1) Midway Training Services offers services to people with developmental disabilities, 2) Midway Transportation provides transportation to people with disabilities, 3) Church of the Holy Childhood, and 4) St. Mary's Greek Orthodox Church. Thep currently all hold a Class A license at Midway Bingo Palace on Le�ngton and University. AIl four organizations depend on the funds from charitable gambling. Mr. Michlitsch assumes the security at 1508 University will be similar to the Lexington and Universiry site in that it will have a uniform security person during the evening sessions to assist any customers that would like to be walked to a vehicle. They have had few problems in the last nine years. The bingo ha11 will also use a private securiry service and off duty Saint Paul Police Officers. Midway Shopping Center also has security in a vehicle available in the evenings. Mr. Ludemann stated this wili be an entirely different environment. There will be more traffic and more crime. Mr. Finley responded he believes that most of the people in the Midway - Shopping Center are good people and shoppers. Crimes of opportunity will d'ecrease because there wiil be more witnesses. The bingo operation will be located in the center. This is a true economic benefit to Midway 5hopping Center and the whole community. People who are transportation disadvantaged can now make a trip to the bingo hall and go shopping. Mr. Finley has represented the owner of the shopping center for yeus; if there is a problem, the owner will address it. Mr. Finley hopes Mr. Strathman will not lose sight of the fact that this is a permitted use. This space is an eyesore right now and cannot be rented. It will be gutted, a new exterior added, and new bathrooms. Ms. Rozek asked about an on site manager of the facility. Mr. Michlitsch responded it has not been decided who will be the manager, but there will be one. Ms. Rozek asked about hours of operation. Mr. Michlitsch responded they propose to be open seven days a week. Doors wouid open at noon, bingo would start at 1:Q0, and be over with at 4:00. Doors would reopen again at about 6:00 p.m. and bingo would start at 7:00 and again at 9:00. People will be out of the hall by 11:00 p.m. They have talked about having a late night COURT OF APPEALS NIJMSER CX-00-1838 �� • •. MIDWAX CENTER BINCzO, 1508 University Avenue West, 9-18-2000 Page 4 session at 11:00 p.m. and people would be out by 1:00 a.m. However, they are limited to 21 sessions that they can be open in a week. Ms. Rozek asked about lighting. Mr. Michlitsch responded there will be a new enirance with sufficient lighting. Midway Bingo-will use 130 to 135 pazking spaces on their busiest night. He would assume ail those people will park close to the building. At least 1/4 of the space is within a short walking distance of the front door. Mr. Bina stated the landlord has provided adequate lighting in the facility. There is pazking lot lighting in the back right now, which should be adequate. The landlord is concerned about safety also and said he would take any lighting and quadruple it. Dave Nelmazk reported there aze no outstanding obligations against the four charities. They are good citizens in the community. Ellen Watters, President of Midway Chamber of Commerce, appeared to speak in support of the license application. The neighborhood's concerns have been articulated and addressed. This business will add to the potential of redevelopment. This location provides a good opportunity for the continued health of the bingo hall users and the potential for redevelopment of the site. The increased activity that the customers witl bring is a positive in terms of increased purchasing and activity. As for crime prevention, the more people around, the more positive environment is created. Lighting and security are nnportant. A beat cop is working from 10:00 a.m. to 7 p.m. If crime becomes a huge problem, the Chamber of Commerce will be in line with the neighbors saying this needs to be fixed. Ms. Watters stated Midway Training Services is an important pariner in the continued health of the Midway. They help the Chamber of Commerce pick up shopping carts in the azea and trash. Mr. Strathman asked is the parking adequate. Mr. Zangs responded it is. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of this license application. He understands a11 the issues raised. It seems the applicant has satisfactorily addressed the issues. The signage seems appropriate. The security plans seem reasonable. He understands the reticence about doing landscaping in the pazking lot because of potendal development. Location makes pazking less of a visual problem than in a more residential neighborhood. There is no reason to limit the 13cense beyond the customary term of two yeazs. There will be another resolution for a variance from the required two miles between bingo locations, but that wili be a public hearing before the City Council. The meeting was adjourued at 10:54 a.m. (Note: Larry Zangs retained some of the items given to Gerry Strathman at this meeting.) rrn COURT OF APPEALS NUMBER CX-00-1838 Council File # O 0 — $'(� OR4GINAL Presented Referred To RESOLUTION CITY OF �AINT PAUL, MINNESOTA Date WHEREAS, the Legislative Hearing Officer recommends that license application Bingo Hall License by RK Midway LLC, dba Midway Center Bingo, 1508 Unive approved; / TI�REFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Saint application. N �� i �.1, �� S � $ �, Y B lakey Co leman Haz ris Be nanav R e it er Bosh Lantry � Green Sheet # 104414 �� # 20000003609) for a Avenue VJest, be approves this license Form Approved by City Attomey � Adopted by Council: Daze Adoption Certified by uncil Secretary By: Approved by Ma r: Date By: Aequested by Department o£ Approved by Mayor for Submission to Council � Ci�y Council Offices Strathman, 266-$560 September 27, 2000 TOTAL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES 9-ZO-z000 I GREEN SHEET �C'p'�8' No1nr r:±� V �� .: ' ■ u �� „�.. _ F � ❑ CR1'AiiW1EY ❑ GIYGiAR � ❑ rww�sEaxccrsooc ❑ nuxo��um�.ccro ❑ wWI1lulAfmTMln ❑ (CUP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATUR� Approving application for a Bingo Hall License by RK Midway LLC, DBA Midway Center Bingo, 1508 University Avenue West. PLANNIt3G CAMMISSION Ct6 CAMMITTEE CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION Hes llue P�eoMrm everwarked untler a ca�6act Torthis depertm¢nl� YES N6 Flas thie RNeoMrm e�er been a cilY emWuYee4 YES NO • Does ihis P�� D� a sidll r� namalbP� bY �Y cunent cdY emGbYee7 YES NO b Mis pereonlfirm a terpe[ed vendoY! YES NO ° �l�+;tCrFj y:{o4.G..,� S �„c.�.,vs s,�8�icc5 4S.(� � � �� OF TRANSACTION S SOURCE COST/REVENYE BUOOETFD (dRCLE ON� ACTNITY NULBER YES NO (��M �o-�� t�_ MINUTES OF T'HE LEGISLATIVE HEARING MIDWAY CENT'ER BINGO - 1508 UNIVERSITY AVENUE WEST Monday, September 18, 2000 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer Staff Present:. Dave Nelmazk, License, Inspecrion, Environmental Protection (LIEP); Christine Rozek, LIEP; Latry Zangs, LIEP The meeting was called to order at 10:02 am. Gerry Strathman stated this meeting is beiug held to hear objections to a license by RK Midway LLC. Cluistine Rozek, Deputy Director of LIEP, reported this is an application for RK Midway LLC, doing business as Midway Bingo Center at 1508 University Avenue West in the Midway Shopping Center. Licensing has approved the applicarion. Fire inspection will approve this upon fmal inspection. Zoning has questions about pazking information. Larry Zangs reported the pazking looks fine, but he needs some explanation on some of the numbers. He will defer his decision on the pazking until he hears from the applicant. Ms. Rozek stated this bingo hall is within two miles of an existing bingo hail. There will need to be a resolution to waive the two mile distance requirement. Also present is Dave Nelmark wha deals with gambling licenses in case there are questions about the gambling aspect of the bingo hall. Don Ludemann, President of Snelling Hamline Community Council, 1573 Selby Avenue #311, appeazed and stated neighbors have expressed some concerns. His understanding is the hearing today only addresses the application by RK Midway to operate a bingo hall. He asked would there be another hearing regazding the other four tenants because the letter he sent in objecfion addressed the gambling licenses as well. Gerry Strathman stated the fact that Mr. Ludemann was objecting to the gambling licenses got missed. He asked could the gambling license applicalions be dealt with this morning. Ms. Rozek responded present aze representatives from all the organizations that intend to conduct charitable gambling. NIr. Strathman stated he will deal with the bingo hail applicafion and the gambling applications at this meeting. The only people to come to these public hearings are interested parties and the interested parties are here. Mr. Ludemann stated it is a business friendly neighborhood. The community council was notified in August when many residents were on vacation. Paula Maccabee offered to come to their boazd meeting to help explain things, but the organizarion was unable to accommodate her. The waiver requirement reads that a waiver will be granted when it will provide economic development benefits without significant negative impact on residential or commercial uses. Mr. �+ . � •: MIDWAY CENTER BINGO, 1508 University Avenue West, 9-18-2000 Page 2 Ludemanu asked will that be a City Council issue. Mr. Strathman responded he would not hold a legislative hearing on the waiver issue; that would go directly to the City Council. Mr. Ludemann stated University United is a group of district councils all along University Avenue. The Midway Chamber of Commerce is also a member. They were involved in the development of two guidelines. One of those guidelines encourages vacant buildings to be rebuilt and vacant lots to be redeveloped as quickly as possible so there is not an appeazance of neglect on the avenue; therefore, he is happy that RK Midway is going to fil1 some of the space. One concern is the pazking in the south lot and that the bingo hall would get in the way of redevelopment of that lot. Mr. Ludemann requested an annual renewal so that future development of that lot would not be delayed. He asked does this license have a term. Ms. Rozek responded it is renewable in two yeazs. Mr. Ludemann wants to m;n;mize massive asphalt in the pazking lots. 'I'4ie design outlines suggest trees should be planted in pazking lots: one tree per every 25 parking spots. He would like RK Midway to consider landscaping to make it more aesthetically pleasing. Mr. Ludemann is also concerned about people preying on the bingo players. He would like to know the plans for security, cameras, lighting. A1so, he is concerned about signage. He hopes it does not add to the ciutter of the signage on the avenue. The following appeared: Paula Maccabee, consultant to RK Midway, and Joe Finley, attorney and applicant. Ms. Maccabee stated the design guidelines encourage vacant buildings to be filled to avoid the appearance of neglect. The ordinance looks at the potential of waiver when it provides economic benefit. The bingo hali is filling 2,400 squaze feet of space that was vacant for 15 years. The current estimate of unprovement to bring this property up to code is about $700,000. According to the University design guidelines referred to by Mr. Ludemann, this part of i3niversiry is suppose to be a regional shopping center. This bingo hall wili bring in about 15,000 customers a month, many of whom are middle class working people and many are women who will make a whole day of shopping or eating out. Ms. Maccabee stated this bingo hall is unlikely to have an impact on neighborhoods. It is more than 750 feet away from the nearest residence; therefore, some of the concerns that may apply in other neighborhoods about traffic, do not apply here. Aiso, it is tucked at the back of the center; the concern about visibility and perception will not take place here. Potential redevelopment is a concern of the, developer also, stated Ms. Maccabee. RK Midway has made significant investments in light3ng and in trees. The reason there is not a plan submitted for landscaping is because it might interfere with potential redevelopment. (Joe Finley gave Gerry Strathman the following: drawing of signage, zoning map azea, a composite site plan, pazking calculations, a copy of the deed to prove they own the center, certificate showing ownership, and the plat filed.) � L�--�S� � MIDWAY CENTER BINGO, 1508 University Avenue West, 9-18-2000 Page 3 Joe Finley eapiained the location of the bingo hall in conjunction with other businesses in the azea. The bingo hall is not neaz any residenrial development. RK Midway had proposed several things for the back lot, but there was a pollution issue there. Now the pollution has been handled, and the back lot can be developed. They have run severai parking scenarios with a bingo hall, hotel, and restaurant being built. They have also run the pazking figures and have come up with 1,408. The e�sting lot has 1,396. Their goal is to redevelop the five acre piece of land. Mr. Sirathman stated the signage looks consistent with other signs on the building. Tom Bina, contractor, responded it will be similar to other signage on the Midway Shopping Center. Michael Michiitsch, 3870 Ef&ess Road, White Bear Lake, appeazed and stated he is currently representing the charities moving 'into the proposed site. The four charities have been involved for at least nine yeazs, specifically in bingo and pull tabs: 1) Midway Training Services offers services to people with developmental disabilities, 2) Midway Transportation provides transportarion to people with disabilifies, 3) Church of the Holy Childhood, and 4) St. Mazy's Greek Orthodox Church. They currently all hoid a Class A license at Midway Bingo Palace on Lexington and University. All four organizafions depend on the funds from charitable gambling. Mr. Michlitsch assumes the security at 1508 University wiil be similaz to the Lexington and University site in that it will have a uniform security person during the evening sessions to assist any customers that would like to be waiked to a vehicle. They have had few problems in the last nine yeazs. The bingo hall wili also use a private security service and off duty Saint Paul Police Officers. Midway Shopping Center also has security in a vehicle available in the evenings. Mr. Ludemann stated this will be an entirely different environment. There will be more traffic and more crime. Mr. Finley responded he believes that most of the people in the Midway Shopping Center are good people and shoppers. Crimes of opportunity will decrease because there will be more witnesses. The bingo operation will be located in the center. This is a true economic benefit to Midway Shopping Center and the whole communiry. People who aze transportation disadvantaged can now make a trip to the bingo hall and go shopping. Mr. Finley has represented the owner of the shopping center for yeazs; if there is a problem, the owner will address it. Mr. Finley hopes Mr. Strathman wili not lose sight of the fact that this is a permitted use. This space is an eyesore right now and cannot be rented. It will be gutted, a new exterior added, and new bathrooms. Ms. Rozek asked about an on site manager of the facility. Mr. Michlitsch responded it has not been decided who wiil be the manager, but there will be one. Ms. Rozek asked about hours of operation. Mr. Michlitsch responded they propose to be open seven days a week. Doors would open at noon, bingo would start at 1:00, and be over with at 4:00. Doors would reopen again at about 6:00 p.m. and bingo would start at 7:00 and again at 9:00. People will be out of the hall by 11:00 p.m. They have talked about having a late night �� MIDWAY CENTER BINGO, 1508 University Avenue West, 9-18-2000 Page 4 session at 11:00 p.m. and people would be out by 1:00 a.m. However, they aze limited to 21 sessions that they can be open in a week. Ms. Rozek asked about lighting. Mr. Michlitsch responded there will be a new entrance with sufficient lighting. Midway Bingo will use 130 to 135 pazking spaces on their busiest night. He would assume all those people will pazk close to the building. At least 1/4 of the space is within a short walking distance of the front door. Mr. Bina stated the landlord has provided adequate lighting in the facility. There is pazking lot lighting in the back right now, which should be adequate. The landlord is concerned about safety also and said he would take any lighting and quadruple it. Dave Nelmark reported there aze no outstanding obligations against the four charities. They are good citizens in the community. Ellen Watters, President of Midway Chamber of Commerce, appeazed to speak in support of the license application. The neighborhood's concerns have been articulated and addressed. This business will add to the potential of redevelopment. This location provides a good opportunity for the continued health of the bingo hall users and the potential for redevelopment of the site. The increased activiTy that the customers will bring is a positive in terms of increased purchasing and activity. As for crirne prevention, the more peopie around, the more positive environment is created. Lighting and security are unportant. A beat cop is working from 10:00 a.m. to 7 p.m. If crime becomes a huge problem, the Chamber of Commerce will be in line with the neighbors saying this needs to be fixed. Ms. Watters stated Midway Training Services is an important partner in the continued health of the Midway. They help the Chamber of Commerce pick up shopping carts in the area and trash. Mr. Strathman asked is the parking adequaze. Mr. Zangs responded it is. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of this license application. He understands ail the issues raised. It seems the applicant has satisfactorily addressed the issues. The signage seems appropriate. The security plans seem reasonable. He understands the reticence about doing landscaping in the parking lot because of potential development. Location makes pazking less of a visual problem than in a more residential neighborhood. T'here is no reason to limit the license beyond the customary term of two yeazs. There will be another resolution for a variance from the required two miles beriveen bingo locarions, but that wili be a public hearing before the City Council. The meeting was adjourned at 10:54 a.m. (Note: Larry Zangs retained some of the items given to Gerry Strathman at tlus meeting.) rrn Council Rile # p��(.� oR��NAt Presented Referred To Aequested by Departrnent of: Date WHEREAS, the Legislarive Hearing Officer recommends that license application Bingo Hall License by RK Midway LLC, dba Midway Center Bingo, 1508 Unive approved; / THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Saint appiication. � _ ��`��~ �� i F �.1, �� S �� . Yeas Blakey Co leman Har ris Benanav Re iter B o s irom Lantry Absent � Green Sheet # 104014 �� # 20000003609) for a Avenue West, be approves this license Form Approved by City Attorney � Adopted by Council: Date Adoption Certified 6y�uncil Secretary By: Appmved by May,6r: Date C'�' Approved by Mayor for Submission to Council � � RESOLUTION CITY OF �AINT PAUL, MINNESOTA COURT OF APPEAL5 NUMBER CX-00-1838 DOCUMENT #I City Council Offices Gerry Stxathman, 266-8560 USiBEONCOUNGYLAGENQ4BY(M'f� September 27, 2000 TOTAL # OF SIGNANRE PAGES �� 00 . p�G p' 9-zo-z000 GREEN SHEET No 1 C�;� 0"1 4 u �,..,.�*� u �,.� — ❑ d1YAiiOItlEY � tltYCliM ❑ w�wc4�m�xcrso.� ❑ w/.rcu�.aomKCro � WYORI�I1t9RAMi1 ❑ (CUP ALl IOCATIONS EOR SIGNATURE) .._� Approving application for a Bingo Hall License by RK Midway LLC, DBA Midway Center Bingo, 1508 University Avenue West. PLANNING COMMISSION CB CAMMIT'fEE CIVIL SERVICE CAMMISSION Has mis ae��m e.erwal�a undera co�nsa r«mis dePanmem7 . YES NO tlas ttae c�eoM�m erer heen a dty empbyce9 . YEg NO . Doec this per�rm posBess a sidll not rannalrypossesseG by any curtmt dty employeel Y6 NO k Mis persavTifm a tazgeted ventloYt YES NO �„�,�g�t�i� a ?Ch GG, $�°Y �� ?��fl OFTRANSAGTION (E(PLRIN) ACTIVITYNUMBER (qRCLEON� YEE NO _'—'---- ---� � I couxa oF ArrEai,s AIUMBER CX-00.1838 , �O ��. MINUTES OF Tf� LEGISLATIVE HEARING MIDWAY CENTER BINGO - 1508 UNIVERSITY AVENUE WEST Monday, September 18, 2000 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Straflunan, Legislative Hearing Officer Staff Present: Dave Nelmazk, License, Inspection, Environmental Protection (LIEP); Christine Rozek, LIEP; Larry Zangs, LIEP The meeting was called to order at 10:02 a.m. Gerry Strathman stated this meeting is being held to heaz objections to a license by RK Midway LLC. Christine Rozek, Deputy Director of LIEP, reported this is an application for RK Midway LLC, doing business as Midway Bingo Center at 1508 University Avenue West in the Midway Shopping Center. Licensing has approved the application. Fire inspection will approve this upon final inspection. Zoning has questions about parking information. Lany Zangs reported the parking looks fine, but he needs some explanaxion on some of the numbers. He wiil defer his decision on the parking untii he hears from the applicant. Ms. Rozek stated this bingo hali is within two miles of an existing bingo hall. There will need to be a resolution to waive the two mile distance requirement. Also present is Dave Nelmazk who deals with gambling licenses in case there are questions about the gambling aspect of the bingo hall. Don Ludemami, President of Snelling Hamline Community Council, 1573 Se1by Avenue #311, appeared and stated neighbors have expressed some concerns. His understanding is the hearing today only addresses the application by RK Midway to operate a bingo hall. He asked would there be another hearing regarding the other four tenants because the letter he sent in objection addressed the gambling licenses as we11. Gerry Strathman stated the fact that Mr. Ludemann was objecting to the gamblang licenses got missed. Ae asked could the gambling license applications be deait with this morning. Ms. Rozek responded present aze representatives from all the organizations that intend to conduct charitable gambling. Mr. Strathman stated he will deal with the bingo hall application and the gambling applicafions at this meeting. The only people to come to these public hearings are interested parties and the interested parties aze here. Mr. Lademann stated it is a business friendly neighborhood. The community council was notified in August when many residents were on vacation. Paula Maccabee offered to come to their board meeting to help explain things, but the organization was unable to accommodate her. The waiver requirement reads that a waiver will be granted when it will provide economic development benefits without significant negative impact on residential or commercial uses. Mr. COURT OF APPEALS NUMBER CX-00-1835 DOCUMENT #2 . • � •s MIDWAY CENT`ER BINGO, 1508 University Avenue West, 9-18-2000 Page 2 Ludemann asked will that be a City Council issue. Mr. Strathman responded he would not hold a legislafive hearing on the waiver issue; that would go directly to the City Council. Mr. Ludemann stated University United is a group of district councils all along University Avenue. The Midway Chamber of Commerce is also a member. They were involved i� the development of two guidelines. One of those guidelines encourages vacant buildings to be rebuilt and vacant lots to be redeveloped as quickly as possible so there is not an appearance of neglect on the auenue; therefore, he is happy that RK Midway is going to fill some of the space. One concem is the pazking in the south iot and that the bingo hall would get in the way of redevelopment of that lot. Mr. Ludemann requested an annual renewal so that future development of that lot would not be delayed. He asked does this license have a term, Ms. Rozek responded it is renewable in two yeazs. Mr. Ludemann wants to minimize massive asphalt in the parking lots. The design outlines suggest trees should be planted in parking Iots: one tree per every 25 parking spots. He would like RK Midway to consider landscaping to make St more aesthetically pleasing. Mr. Ludemann is also concerned about people preying on the bingo players. He would like to know the plans for security, cameras, lighting. Also, he is concerned about signage. He hopes it does not add to the clutter of the signage on the avenue. The following appeared: Paula Macaabee, consultant to RK Midway, and Joe Finley, attorney and applicant. Ms. Maccabee stated the design guidelines encourage vacant buildings to be filled to avoid the appeazance of neglect. The ordinance looks at the potential of waiver when it provides economic benefit. The bingo hall is filling 2,000 square feet of space that was vacant for 15 years. The current estimate of improvement to bring this properiy up to code is about $700,000. According to the University design guidelines refened to by Mr. Ludemann, this part of University is suppose to be a regional shopping center. This bingo hall will bring in about 15,000 customers a month, many of whom are middle class working people and many aze women who will make a whole day of shopping or eating out. Ms. Maccabee staxed this bingo ha11 is unlikely to have an impact an neighborhoods. It is more than 75Q feet away from the nearest residence; therefore, some of the concerns that may apply in other neighborhoods about tr�c, do not apply here. Also, it is tucked at the back of the center; the concern about visibility and perception will not take piace here. Potentiai redevelopment is a concern of the. developer also, stated Ms. Maccabee. RK Midway has made significant inveshnents in lighting and in trees. The reason there is not a plan submitted for landscaping is because it might interfere with potential redevelopment. (Joe Finley gave Gerry Stratlunau the following: drawing of signage, zoning map azea, a composite site p1an, parking calculations, a copy of the deed to prove they own the center, certificate showing ownership, and the plat filed.) COIJRT OF APPEALS NiJMBER CX-00-1838 C� C�-- �SC� �S MIDWAY CENTER BINGO, 1508 University Avenue West, 9-18-2000 Page 3 Joe Finley explained the location of the bingo hall in conjunction with other businesses in the area. The bingo hall is not near any residential development. RK Midway had proposed several things for the back lot, but there was a poilution issue there. Now the pollution has been handied, and the back lot can be developed. They have run several pazking scenarios with a bingo hall, hotel, and restaurant being built. They have also run the pazking figures and have come up with 1,408. The existing lot has 1,396. Their goai is to redevelop the five acre piece of land. Mr. Strathman stated the signage looks consistent with other signs on the building. Tom Bina, contractor, responded it will be sunilar to other signage on the Midway Shopping Center. Michael Michlitsch, 3870 Ef&ess Road, White Bear Lake, appeared and stated he is currently representing the charities moving into the proposed site. The four chariries have been involved for at least nine years, specifically in bingo and pull tabs: 1) Midway Training Services offers services to people with developmental disabilities, 2) Midway Transportation provides transportation to people with disabilities, 3) Church of the Holy Childhood, and 4) St. Mary's Greek Orthodox Church. Thep currently all hold a Class A license at Midway Bingo Palace on Le�ngton and University. AIl four organizations depend on the funds from charitable gambling. Mr. Michlitsch assumes the security at 1508 University will be similar to the Lexington and Universiry site in that it will have a uniform security person during the evening sessions to assist any customers that would like to be walked to a vehicle. They have had few problems in the last nine years. The bingo ha11 will also use a private securiry service and off duty Saint Paul Police Officers. Midway Shopping Center also has security in a vehicle available in the evenings. Mr. Ludemann stated this wili be an entirely different environment. There will be more traffic and more crime. Mr. Finley responded he believes that most of the people in the Midway - Shopping Center are good people and shoppers. Crimes of opportunity will d'ecrease because there wiil be more witnesses. The bingo operation will be located in the center. This is a true economic benefit to Midway 5hopping Center and the whole community. People who are transportation disadvantaged can now make a trip to the bingo hall and go shopping. Mr. Finley has represented the owner of the shopping center for yeus; if there is a problem, the owner will address it. Mr. Finley hopes Mr. Strathman will not lose sight of the fact that this is a permitted use. This space is an eyesore right now and cannot be rented. It will be gutted, a new exterior added, and new bathrooms. Ms. Rozek asked about an on site manager of the facility. Mr. Michlitsch responded it has not been decided who will be the manager, but there will be one. Ms. Rozek asked about hours of operation. Mr. Michlitsch responded they propose to be open seven days a week. Doors wouid open at noon, bingo would start at 1:Q0, and be over with at 4:00. Doors would reopen again at about 6:00 p.m. and bingo would start at 7:00 and again at 9:00. People will be out of the hall by 11:00 p.m. They have talked about having a late night COURT OF APPEALS NIJMSER CX-00-1838 �� • •. MIDWAX CENTER BINCzO, 1508 University Avenue West, 9-18-2000 Page 4 session at 11:00 p.m. and people would be out by 1:00 a.m. However, they are limited to 21 sessions that they can be open in a week. Ms. Rozek asked about lighting. Mr. Michlitsch responded there will be a new enirance with sufficient lighting. Midway Bingo-will use 130 to 135 pazking spaces on their busiest night. He would assume ail those people will park close to the building. At least 1/4 of the space is within a short walking distance of the front door. Mr. Bina stated the landlord has provided adequate lighting in the facility. There is pazking lot lighting in the back right now, which should be adequate. The landlord is concerned about safety also and said he would take any lighting and quadruple it. Dave Nelmazk reported there aze no outstanding obligations against the four charities. They are good citizens in the community. Ellen Watters, President of Midway Chamber of Commerce, appeared to speak in support of the license application. The neighborhood's concerns have been articulated and addressed. This business will add to the potential of redevelopment. This location provides a good opportunity for the continued health of the bingo hall users and the potential for redevelopment of the site. The increased activity that the customers witl bring is a positive in terms of increased purchasing and activity. As for crime prevention, the more people around, the more positive environment is created. Lighting and security are nnportant. A beat cop is working from 10:00 a.m. to 7 p.m. If crime becomes a huge problem, the Chamber of Commerce will be in line with the neighbors saying this needs to be fixed. Ms. Watters stated Midway Training Services is an important pariner in the continued health of the Midway. They help the Chamber of Commerce pick up shopping carts in the azea and trash. Mr. Strathman asked is the parking adequate. Mr. Zangs responded it is. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of this license application. He understands a11 the issues raised. It seems the applicant has satisfactorily addressed the issues. The signage seems appropriate. The security plans seem reasonable. He understands the reticence about doing landscaping in the pazking lot because of potendal development. Location makes pazking less of a visual problem than in a more residential neighborhood. There is no reason to limit the 13cense beyond the customary term of two yeazs. There will be another resolution for a variance from the required two miles between bingo locations, but that wili be a public hearing before the City Council. The meeting was adjourued at 10:54 a.m. (Note: Larry Zangs retained some of the items given to Gerry Strathman at this meeting.) rrn COURT OF APPEALS NUMBER CX-00-1838 Council File # O 0 — $'(� OR4GINAL Presented Referred To RESOLUTION CITY OF �AINT PAUL, MINNESOTA Date WHEREAS, the Legislative Hearing Officer recommends that license application Bingo Hall License by RK Midway LLC, dba Midway Center Bingo, 1508 Unive approved; / TI�REFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Saint application. N �� i �.1, �� S � $ �, Y B lakey Co leman Haz ris Be nanav R e it er Bosh Lantry � Green Sheet # 104414 �� # 20000003609) for a Avenue VJest, be approves this license Form Approved by City Attomey � Adopted by Council: Daze Adoption Certified by uncil Secretary By: Approved by Ma r: Date By: Aequested by Department o£ Approved by Mayor for Submission to Council � Ci�y Council Offices Strathman, 266-$560 September 27, 2000 TOTAL # OF SIGNATURE PAGES 9-ZO-z000 I GREEN SHEET �C'p'�8' No1nr r:±� V �� .: ' ■ u �� „�.. _ F � ❑ CR1'AiiW1EY ❑ GIYGiAR � ❑ rww�sEaxccrsooc ❑ nuxo��um�.ccro ❑ wWI1lulAfmTMln ❑ (CUP ALL LOCATIONS FOR SIGNATUR� Approving application for a Bingo Hall License by RK Midway LLC, DBA Midway Center Bingo, 1508 University Avenue West. PLANNIt3G CAMMISSION Ct6 CAMMITTEE CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION Hes llue P�eoMrm everwarked untler a ca�6act Torthis depertm¢nl� YES N6 Flas thie RNeoMrm e�er been a cilY emWuYee4 YES NO • Does ihis P�� D� a sidll r� namalbP� bY �Y cunent cdY emGbYee7 YES NO b Mis pereonlfirm a terpe[ed vendoY! YES NO ° �l�+;tCrFj y:{o4.G..,� S �„c.�.,vs s,�8�icc5 4S.(� � � �� OF TRANSACTION S SOURCE COST/REVENYE BUOOETFD (dRCLE ON� ACTNITY NULBER YES NO (��M �o-�� t�_ MINUTES OF T'HE LEGISLATIVE HEARING MIDWAY CENT'ER BINGO - 1508 UNIVERSITY AVENUE WEST Monday, September 18, 2000 Room 330 Courthouse Gerry Strathman, Legislative Hearing Officer Staff Present:. Dave Nelmazk, License, Inspecrion, Environmental Protection (LIEP); Christine Rozek, LIEP; Latry Zangs, LIEP The meeting was called to order at 10:02 am. Gerry Strathman stated this meeting is beiug held to hear objections to a license by RK Midway LLC. Cluistine Rozek, Deputy Director of LIEP, reported this is an application for RK Midway LLC, doing business as Midway Bingo Center at 1508 University Avenue West in the Midway Shopping Center. Licensing has approved the applicarion. Fire inspection will approve this upon fmal inspection. Zoning has questions about pazking information. Larry Zangs reported the pazking looks fine, but he needs some explanation on some of the numbers. He will defer his decision on the pazking until he hears from the applicant. Ms. Rozek stated this bingo hall is within two miles of an existing bingo hail. There will need to be a resolution to waive the two mile distance requirement. Also present is Dave Nelmark wha deals with gambling licenses in case there are questions about the gambling aspect of the bingo hall. Don Ludemann, President of Snelling Hamline Community Council, 1573 Selby Avenue #311, appeazed and stated neighbors have expressed some concerns. His understanding is the hearing today only addresses the application by RK Midway to operate a bingo hall. He asked would there be another hearing regazding the other four tenants because the letter he sent in objecfion addressed the gambling licenses as well. Gerry Strathman stated the fact that Mr. Ludemann was objecting to the gambling licenses got missed. He asked could the gambling license applicalions be dealt with this morning. Ms. Rozek responded present aze representatives from all the organizations that intend to conduct charitable gambling. NIr. Strathman stated he will deal with the bingo hail applicafion and the gambling applications at this meeting. The only people to come to these public hearings are interested parties and the interested parties are here. Mr. Ludemann stated it is a business friendly neighborhood. The community council was notified in August when many residents were on vacation. Paula Maccabee offered to come to their boazd meeting to help explain things, but the organizarion was unable to accommodate her. The waiver requirement reads that a waiver will be granted when it will provide economic development benefits without significant negative impact on residential or commercial uses. Mr. �+ . � •: MIDWAY CENTER BINGO, 1508 University Avenue West, 9-18-2000 Page 2 Ludemanu asked will that be a City Council issue. Mr. Strathman responded he would not hold a legislative hearing on the waiver issue; that would go directly to the City Council. Mr. Ludemann stated University United is a group of district councils all along University Avenue. The Midway Chamber of Commerce is also a member. They were involved in the development of two guidelines. One of those guidelines encourages vacant buildings to be rebuilt and vacant lots to be redeveloped as quickly as possible so there is not an appeazance of neglect on the avenue; therefore, he is happy that RK Midway is going to fil1 some of the space. One concern is the pazking in the south lot and that the bingo hall would get in the way of redevelopment of that lot. Mr. Ludemann requested an annual renewal so that future development of that lot would not be delayed. He asked does this license have a term. Ms. Rozek responded it is renewable in two yeazs. Mr. Ludemann wants to m;n;mize massive asphalt in the pazking lots. 'I'4ie design outlines suggest trees should be planted in pazking lots: one tree per every 25 parking spots. He would like RK Midway to consider landscaping to make it more aesthetically pleasing. Mr. Ludemann is also concerned about people preying on the bingo players. He would like to know the plans for security, cameras, lighting. A1so, he is concerned about signage. He hopes it does not add to the ciutter of the signage on the avenue. The following appeared: Paula Maccabee, consultant to RK Midway, and Joe Finley, attorney and applicant. Ms. Maccabee stated the design guidelines encourage vacant buildings to be filled to avoid the appearance of neglect. The ordinance looks at the potential of waiver when it provides economic benefit. The bingo hali is filling 2,400 squaze feet of space that was vacant for 15 years. The current estimate of unprovement to bring this property up to code is about $700,000. According to the University design guidelines referred to by Mr. Ludemann, this part of i3niversiry is suppose to be a regional shopping center. This bingo hall wili bring in about 15,000 customers a month, many of whom are middle class working people and many are women who will make a whole day of shopping or eating out. Ms. Maccabee stated this bingo hall is unlikely to have an impact on neighborhoods. It is more than 750 feet away from the nearest residence; therefore, some of the concerns that may apply in other neighborhoods about traffic, do not apply here. Aiso, it is tucked at the back of the center; the concern about visibility and perception will not take place here. Potential redevelopment is a concern of the, developer also, stated Ms. Maccabee. RK Midway has made significant investments in light3ng and in trees. The reason there is not a plan submitted for landscaping is because it might interfere with potential redevelopment. (Joe Finley gave Gerry Strathman the following: drawing of signage, zoning map azea, a composite site plan, pazking calculations, a copy of the deed to prove they own the center, certificate showing ownership, and the plat filed.) � L�--�S� � MIDWAY CENTER BINGO, 1508 University Avenue West, 9-18-2000 Page 3 Joe Finley eapiained the location of the bingo hall in conjunction with other businesses in the azea. The bingo hall is not neaz any residenrial development. RK Midway had proposed several things for the back lot, but there was a pollution issue there. Now the pollution has been handled, and the back lot can be developed. They have run severai parking scenarios with a bingo hall, hotel, and restaurant being built. They have also run the pazking figures and have come up with 1,408. The e�sting lot has 1,396. Their goal is to redevelop the five acre piece of land. Mr. Sirathman stated the signage looks consistent with other signs on the building. Tom Bina, contractor, responded it will be similar to other signage on the Midway Shopping Center. Michael Michiitsch, 3870 Ef&ess Road, White Bear Lake, appeazed and stated he is currently representing the charities moving 'into the proposed site. The four charities have been involved for at least nine yeazs, specifically in bingo and pull tabs: 1) Midway Training Services offers services to people with developmental disabilities, 2) Midway Transportation provides transportarion to people with disabilifies, 3) Church of the Holy Childhood, and 4) St. Mazy's Greek Orthodox Church. They currently all hoid a Class A license at Midway Bingo Palace on Lexington and University. All four organizafions depend on the funds from charitable gambling. Mr. Michlitsch assumes the security at 1508 University wiil be similaz to the Lexington and University site in that it will have a uniform security person during the evening sessions to assist any customers that would like to be waiked to a vehicle. They have had few problems in the last nine yeazs. The bingo hall wili also use a private security service and off duty Saint Paul Police Officers. Midway Shopping Center also has security in a vehicle available in the evenings. Mr. Ludemann stated this will be an entirely different environment. There will be more traffic and more crime. Mr. Finley responded he believes that most of the people in the Midway Shopping Center are good people and shoppers. Crimes of opportunity will decrease because there will be more witnesses. The bingo operation will be located in the center. This is a true economic benefit to Midway Shopping Center and the whole communiry. People who aze transportation disadvantaged can now make a trip to the bingo hall and go shopping. Mr. Finley has represented the owner of the shopping center for yeazs; if there is a problem, the owner will address it. Mr. Finley hopes Mr. Strathman wili not lose sight of the fact that this is a permitted use. This space is an eyesore right now and cannot be rented. It will be gutted, a new exterior added, and new bathrooms. Ms. Rozek asked about an on site manager of the facility. Mr. Michlitsch responded it has not been decided who wiil be the manager, but there will be one. Ms. Rozek asked about hours of operation. Mr. Michlitsch responded they propose to be open seven days a week. Doors would open at noon, bingo would start at 1:00, and be over with at 4:00. Doors would reopen again at about 6:00 p.m. and bingo would start at 7:00 and again at 9:00. People will be out of the hall by 11:00 p.m. They have talked about having a late night �� MIDWAY CENTER BINGO, 1508 University Avenue West, 9-18-2000 Page 4 session at 11:00 p.m. and people would be out by 1:00 a.m. However, they aze limited to 21 sessions that they can be open in a week. Ms. Rozek asked about lighting. Mr. Michlitsch responded there will be a new entrance with sufficient lighting. Midway Bingo will use 130 to 135 pazking spaces on their busiest night. He would assume all those people will pazk close to the building. At least 1/4 of the space is within a short walking distance of the front door. Mr. Bina stated the landlord has provided adequate lighting in the facility. There is pazking lot lighting in the back right now, which should be adequate. The landlord is concerned about safety also and said he would take any lighting and quadruple it. Dave Nelmark reported there aze no outstanding obligations against the four charities. They are good citizens in the community. Ellen Watters, President of Midway Chamber of Commerce, appeazed to speak in support of the license application. The neighborhood's concerns have been articulated and addressed. This business will add to the potential of redevelopment. This location provides a good opportunity for the continued health of the bingo hall users and the potential for redevelopment of the site. The increased activiTy that the customers will bring is a positive in terms of increased purchasing and activity. As for crirne prevention, the more peopie around, the more positive environment is created. Lighting and security are unportant. A beat cop is working from 10:00 a.m. to 7 p.m. If crime becomes a huge problem, the Chamber of Commerce will be in line with the neighbors saying this needs to be fixed. Ms. Watters stated Midway Training Services is an important partner in the continued health of the Midway. They help the Chamber of Commerce pick up shopping carts in the area and trash. Mr. Strathman asked is the parking adequaze. Mr. Zangs responded it is. Gerry Strathman recommended approval of this license application. He understands ail the issues raised. It seems the applicant has satisfactorily addressed the issues. The signage seems appropriate. The security plans seem reasonable. He understands the reticence about doing landscaping in the parking lot because of potential development. Location makes pazking less of a visual problem than in a more residential neighborhood. T'here is no reason to limit the license beyond the customary term of two yeazs. There will be another resolution for a variance from the required two miles beriveen bingo locarions, but that wili be a public hearing before the City Council. The meeting was adjourned at 10:54 a.m. (Note: Larry Zangs retained some of the items given to Gerry Strathman at tlus meeting.) rrn