HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-06-20 DTPC MIN
216 4th Street N, Stillwater, MN 55082
651-430-8800
www.stillwatermn.gov
DOWNTOWN PARKING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
June 20, 2024
Chairman Glynn called the meeting to order at 8:31 a.m.
Present: Chairman Glynn, Commissioners Bates (remotely), Havir, Kaufer (remotely)*, Lentz,
Lepage, Rheinberger, Councilmember Junker
Absent: None
Staff: Community Development Director Gladhill
*Commissioner Kaufer was not at the location specified for remote attendance, therefore his attendance
was “listen only” and he abstained from voting.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Possible approval of May 16, 2024 meeting minutes
Motion by Commissioner ___________, seconded by Commissioner _________, to approve the May 16, 2024
meeting minutes. Motion passed 7-0-1 with Commissioner Kaufer abstaining.
OPEN FORUM
There were no public comments.
CONSENT AGENDA
There were no items on the Consent Agenda.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
There was no unfinished business.
NEW BUSINESS
Overnight Bus Parking Policy Request (Lora Hotel)
Kadie Frey, General Manager of the Lora Hotel presented a request for longer-term overnight bus
parking (2-3 days) so that hotel staff does not need to shuttle bus drivers to remote locations.
Commissioner Lepage asked about existing bus parking on the south side of downtown, and Mr.
Gladhill clarified that is short-term parking (3 hour).
Chair Glynn inquired about the parking lots surrounding the Stillwater Veterans Memorial, and Mr.
Gladhill noted that Cub Foods Corporate Headquarters has some exclusive use weekdays, but he could
inquire with Cub Foods as to whether all spaces are needed.
Councilmember Junker suggested the parking lot north of the Zephyr train depot, and Mr. Gladhill
noted that The Manitou Fund has exclusive use of this lot weekdays, and the lot is not part of the
Downtown Parking District, but is part of Lumberjack Landing Park.
Councilmember Junker suggested that $27/day for taking up multiple parking stalls is too low.
Downtown Parking Commission Meeting June 20, 2024
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Ms. Frey noted that other locations for similar requests charge $75-100, and Mr. Gladhill suggested
$75 as a pilot program to start. Ms. Frey said this would be an appropriate amount.
Discussion ensued regarding adding parking lots to the pilot program and the appropriate fee for
overnight bus parking. Mr. Gladhill stated that he had enough information to implement the
Commission’s suggestions.
Motion by Commissioner Rheinberger, seconded by Commissioner Lentz, to approve a one-year pilot
program allowing overnight bus parking in the following lots: 1) parking lot north of Zephyr Depot; 2)
City Hall parking lot; 3) Lots 16, 17, 18; and to establish a fee of $75/day/bus. Motion passed 7-0-1 with
Commissioner Kaufer abstaining.
Harmony and High Vibes Festival Parking Reservation Request (New Event Permit Application)
Mr. Gladhill stated that Melissa Kzaz, a Stillwater resident, submitted an event application for a
Harmony & High Vibes Festival event to be held on September 22, 2024 at the Lowell Park stage area.
This event is a new event to the City of Stillwater and Lowell Park. The event has requested the use of
parking lot 5 for food vendors. The fee would total $200 for Lot 5.
Motion by Commissioner ______, seconded by Commissioner ______, to approve the reservation of Lot 5 on
September 22, 2024 for the Harmony and High Vibes Festival at the standard rate of $200. Motion passed
7-0-1 with Commissioner Kaufer abstaining.
Downtown Parking Commission Work Plan
Mr. Gladhill led discussion on the draft work plan developed from previous workshops. Commission
members offered suggestions for further clarification, and consensus was reached on the following:
Purpose: The Downtown Parking Commission ensures a financially stable Downtown Parking System
that balances the needs of a wide spectrum of stakeholders. The Commission strives to be flexible and
consistent in providing safe and accessible amenities.
Vision: The Downtown Parking Commission supports Stillwater’s identity as a premier community to
live and visit by providing clean, safe, accessible and innovative parking solutions.
Strategies:
• Self-Sustaining Financial Model
• Improve Communication and Perception of Commission
• Improve Parking Availability, Accessibility, and Quality (well-marked, well-lit)
• Streamline Operations
FYI/STAFF UPDATES
Financial Updates
Mr. Gladhill presented revenues and expenses, adding that the picture will be clearer after summer
figures are in.
Permit Module Update
Mr. Gladhill stated since launching the new Permit Module at the beginning of June, there are
approximately 250 permit holders. Most users report that the system is extremely easy to use.
Enforcement and Master Sign Plan Update
Mr. Gladhill said with the launch of the Permit Module, enforcement is increasing. Enforcement efforts
appear to be improving compliance. One remaining barrier to continued improved compliance is lack
of signage. Staff will be working on a master sign plan over the next 1-2 months.
COMMISSIONER REQUESTS
Downtown Parking Commission Meeting June 20, 2024
Mr. Gladhill shared that the river will likely flood into Lowell Park, impacting the 4th of July and
Lumberjack Days events. He also reported that the City Council voted to move forward on a master
sign plan, bringing in a consultant to help inventory existing signage and give recommendations.
ADJOURNMENT
Chairman Glynn adjourned the meeting at 9:30 a.m.
BraGllf
ATTEST: �
Ben Gutknecht, Interim Community Development Director
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