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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Information Memorandum 09-27-2012CITY OF PLYMOUTH rp) COUNCIL INFO MEMO September 27, 2012 EVENTS / MEETINGS Commission Agendas, NONE October, November and December 2012 Official City Meeting Calendars ........................................ Page 1 Tentative List of Agenda Items for Future City Council Meetings ..................................................... Page 4 League of Women Voters Wayzata Council Candidate Forum, 10/02/12 (change in time) ................ Page 6 Walmart Open House to Discuss Four Season Mall Property, 10/10/12 (change in date) ............... Page 7 CORRESPONDENCE Letter from Minnehaha Creek Watershed District RE: AIS Plan Task Force ..................................... Page 8 Letter from Gassen Company RE: delivery of Twin Cities values ..................................................... Page 9 Thank You Card from Cub Scouts to Mayor Slavik............................................................ Page 11 Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission Request for Proposals .................................... Page 12 West Metro Tax Levy Hikes Range to Near 7%, StarTribune.......................................................... Page 16 2013 Tax Levy List, StarTribune...................................................................................................... Page 18 REPORTS Ehlers Market Commentary, 09/25/12 ................................ Fire Department Fire- Rescue Report. May — August 2012 MINUTES NONE Page 19 Page 21 City of Plymouth Adding Quality to Life October 2012 Modified on 09127112 CHANGES ARE NOTED IN RED Page 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 6:00 PM 6:30 PM CANCELLED HUMAN RIGHTS VOLUNTEER PLANNING COMMITTEE RECOGNITION COMMISSION AMENDMENT EVENT MEETING FORUM Plymouth Creek Council Chambers Plymouth Creek Center Center 7 8jjj� 9 7:00 PM 10 7:00 PM 11 7:00 PM 12 13 REGULAR COUNCIL ENVIRONMENTAL PARK Et REC 12:00-3:00 PM MEETING QUALITY ADVISORY FIRE DEPT. COLUMBUS DAY Council Chambers COMMITTEE COMMISSION OPEN HOUSE Observed (EQC) MEETING (PRAC) MEETING Fire Station III Council Chambers Plymouth PLYMOUTH PUBLIC Ice Center WORKS DIVISION CLOSED 14 15 16 17 7:00 PM 18 19 20 PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Council Chambers 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 7:00 PM 7:00 PM REGULAR COUNCIL HRA MEETING MEETING Medicine Lake Room Council Chambers 28 29 30 31 6:00-8:00 PM Halloween on the Creek Plymouth Creek Center Modified on 09127112 CHANGES ARE NOTED IN RED Page 1 City of Plymouth Adding Quality to Life November 2012 Modified on 09127112 Page 2 1 2 3 7:00 PM HUMAN RIGHTS COMMITTEE MEETING Lunch Room 4 5 6 MEE 7 8 9 10 7:00 PM GENERAL PLANNING ELECTION DAY COMMISSION MEETING Council Chambers Daylight Savings Time Ends 11 12 13 7:00 PM 14 7:00 PM 15 7:00 PM 16 17 VETERANS DAY REGULAR COUNCIL. ENVIRONMENTAL HRA MEETING 10:00 AM -5 PM VETERANS DAY Observed MEETING QUALITY Medicine Lake Room PLYMOUTH ARTS CITY OFFICES Council Chambers COMMITTEE FAIR CLOSED (EQC) MEETING Plymouth Creek Council Chambers Center 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 CANCELLED 12:00-5 PM PLANNING PLYMOUTH ARTS COMMISSION THANKSGIVING THANKSGIVING FAIR MEETING HOLIDAY HOLIDAY Plymouth Creek Center Council Chambers CITY OFFICES CITY OFFICES CLOSED CLOSED 25 26 27 28 29 30 7:00 PM 7:00 PM REGULAR COUNCIL PLYMOUTH MEETING ADVISORY Council Chambers COMMITTEE ON TRANSIT (PACT) MEETING Medicine Lake Room Modified on 09127112 Page 2 City of Plymouth Adding Quality to Life December 2012 Modified on 09127112 Page 3 1 2 3 4 5 7:00 PM 6 7 8 PLANNING 2:00-5:00 PM COMMISSION OLD FASHIONED MEETING CHRISTMAS Council Chambers Plymouth Historical Society Building Chanukah Begins at Sunset 9 10 11 12 7:00 PM 13 14 15 7:00 PM ENVIRONMENTAL 7:00 PM REGULAR COUNCIL QUALITY PARK tt REC MEETING COMMITTEE (EQC) ADVISORY Council Chambers MEETING COMMISSION Council Chambers (PRAC) MEETING 7:00 PM Council Chambers CHARTER COMMISSION ANNUAL MEETING Medicine Lake Room 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 7:00 PM PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Council Chambers 23 24 CHRISTEVE AS 25 26 27 7:00 PM 28 29 HRA MEETING CITY / Medicine Lake Room OFFICES CHRISTMAS DAY LOSE AT 12:00 P CITY OFFICES CLOSED NEW YEAR'S EVE Modified on 09127112 Page 3 Tentative Schedule for City Council Agenda Items October 91, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers • Appoint additional election judges for the November 6 General Election • Announce Fire Department Open House on October 20 • Hearing on delinquent utilities and other charges • Approve lease termination agreement with Nextel West Corporation for telecommunication equipment on the County Road 101 water tower • Approve comments on the Metropolitan Council's upcoming Thrive MSP 2040 plan • Approve Joint Powers Agreement with the City of Hopkins for Records Management • Approve Plans and Specifications and Order Advertisement for Bids, Well No. 17 Pumping Facility (10024) • Final Payment, Vicksburg Lane Overlay Project (10026) • Payment No. 3 and Final, 2012 Street Sweeping Project (12012) • Accept Streets for Continual Maintenance, Arbor Grove (2010059) • Approve Filling of Wetlands and the Wetland Replacement Plan Application, Kirkwood Addition (2012041) • Approve Encroachment Agreement for a Retaining Wall, Lot 8, Block 1, Heritage Estates 2nd Addition • Approve Encroachment Agreement for Deck Steps, Lot 8, Block 1, Hampton Hills 2nd Addition • Public Hearing for Vacation of Drainage and Utility Easement within Outlot A, Taylor Creek • Approve Modified Alignment (Alignment 3B) and Typical Section for Peony Lane North of Schmidt Lake Road (10015) • Award Contract, Nature Canyon Erosion Repair (11023) • Approve Final Plat of Hampton Hills South Plateau 2nd Addition (2012078) • Approve Rezoning, Preliminary Plat, and Final Plat for Homeland Subdivision (2012063) • Approve Final Plat for Kirkwood Subdivision (2012041 — US Home Corporation, d/b/a Lennar) • Approve Rezoning and Preliminary Plat for Kirkwood II Subdivision (2012054 - US Home Corporation) • Approve Lawful Gambling Application from Wayzata Hockey Association for Lucky 13, 3000 Harbor Lane (formerly Axel's) October 23, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers • Announce Halloween on the Creek on October 31 • Announce Plymouth Pet Expo on November 3-4 • Announce Paint the Pavement 5K Fun Run/Walk on November 10 • Hearing for On -Sale Liquor and Sunday Liquor applications from Two Prix and a Princess, d/b/a Lucky 13, 3000 Harbor Lane (formerly Axel's) • Approval of Tobacco License for Montecore, LLC, d/b/a MGM Wine and Spirits, 3900 Vinewood Lane North • Hearing on Off Sale Liquor License application from Montecore, LLC, d/b/a MGM Wine and Spirits, 3900 Vinewood Lane North November 13, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers • Canvass 2012 General Election results • Announce Plymouth Arts Fair on November 17-18 November 27, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers Note: Special Meeting topics have been set by Council; all other topics are tentative. Page 4 • Announce Old Fashioned Christmas on December 2 December 113, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers • Recognize Police Citizen Academy Graduates • Announce New Year's Eve Event on December 31 • Public hearing on the 2013 Budget Page 5 For immediate release: League of Women Voters Wayzata, Plymouth Area Contact: Cheryl Day, Voter Service Phone: 612-849-8756 (cell) e-mail: Iwv.wayzata.plymouthCcbgmail.com or cherylday4@comcast.net Due to a conflict with the city of Plymouth's Volunteer Recognition Event the evening of October 2, 2012, the LWV Wayzata, Plymouth Area has changed the time for the city council candidate forum. Tuesday, October 2, 2012, Council Chambers at Plymouth City Hall, 3400 Plymouth Blvd., Plymouth 55447. The Ward 2 and At -Large candidates will be together. 8:00 - 9:00 p.m. Ward 2 (1 seat open) Ned Carroll and Jeff Wosje At -Large (1 seat open) Dan Waltenberg and Jim Willis Page 6 Wal art Save money, Live better. September 20, 2012 THERE HAS BEEN A CHANGE IN DATE FOR THE OPEN HOUSE TO DISCUSS THE FOUR SEASONS MALL PROPERTY. THE OPEN HOUSE HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED TO FROM WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 26 TO WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 1 OT11. Please join us at an Open House to review W'almart's proposed redevelopment of the Four Seasons Mall site. Representatives of Walmart and their consultants will be present at the Four Seasons Mall to review the site and discuss their plans for redeveloping it for a new Walmart store. You are invited to attend and offer your comments and ideas for consideration by Walmart as it develops a plan for submission to the City of Plymouth. Our objective is to develop a plan that works well for Walmart, satisfies City policies and also respects the interests of residents and businesses in the area. When: Wednesday, October 10, 2012 Time: 6-8pm Where. Four Seasons Mall (watch for signage) RSVP not required. We are very excited to begin this process regarding our proposed new store in Plymouth, Minnesota, We look forward to receiving community input at the Open House. If you have any questions, please feel free to email Erik Miller at emillerQmfra.com. Page 7 MINNEHAHA CREEK The Mlnnehaha Creek Watershed District is committed to a leadership role in protecting, improving and managing the surface waters and affiliated groundwater resources within the District, including their relationships to the ecosystems of which they are an integral part. We achieve our mission through regulation, capital projects,, education, cooperative endeavors, and other programs based on sound science, innovative thinking, an informed and engaged constituency, and the cost effective use of pubtic funds. QUALITY OF WATER September 21, 2012 Ms. Laurie Ahrens City Manager City of Plymouth 3400 Plymouth Blvd Plymouth, MN 55447 �Gj2L2.� Dear s. s: f N WATERSHED DISTRICT QUALITY OF LIFE SEP 24 2612 The MCWD's AIS (Aquatic Invasive Species) Plan Task Force has been meeting since late May and has made steady progress on the development of a new AIS Management Plan. It looks to be on track with the goal of having the Plan completed by the end of the year. Task Force meetings are, of course, open to the public, and its members want to remind cities that their attendance and comments are welcome. Meetings are held the first and third Wednesdays of the month from 5:00 — 6:30 pm at the District offices. Agenda packets are available on the MCWD website, www.rninneltaliacreek.ora, and can be found under "About MCWD", then "Committees, Task Forces and Committees", and then at the bottom of the page after clicking "AIS Task Force". In addition to working on the long-term management plan, the Task Force is identifying additional enhancements for AIS activities in 2013. In September, the MCWD Board has increased its proposed 2013 levy by $250,000 (about three percent, or about $1/year for a $250,000 homestead), subject to a short-term plan being presented and approved by mid- December. We are assuming that the new AIS Management Plan will be considered a "major amendment" to our current Comprehensive Plan. That amendment process will take around six months to complete. When finally approved and adopted, it will be the basis for long-term AIS activities beginning in 2014. Please share this letter with your councilmembers, and Iet them know that they are welcome to attend and comment during the AIS Plan Task Force meetings. Sincerely, Ci D vasive Species (ATS) Program 18202 Minnetonka Boulevard, Deephaven, MN 55391 0 Office: (952) 471-0540 • Fax: (952) 471-0682 • www.minnRWrAk.org \GASSEN COMPANY ACCREDd'TED ASSOCIATION MANAGEMENT COMPANY VIED SEP 25 2012 September 24, 2012 Twin Cities Values Star Tribune 425 Portland AVenlle South ti9 initeapolis,'v'[N 55488 We are writing to you on behalf of the Harvest Hills Homeowners Association. We arc the managers for the Association. We have written to you before concerning your "Twin Cities values" \which is left without permission at the Homeowners association on the driveways. As we wrote to you before, and indicated in previous telephone calls, we consider this delivery to be littering and trespassing on the property. The papers are not requested by the residents, they are not picked up, they blow about the property, and they litter not only our property but also adjacent portions of Plymouth. Pursuant to Minnesota statutes, section 609.605 subdivision 1 (b) (8) you are hereby notified that you are not to permit or direct any of your delivery persons, agents, employees, or anyone delivering Twin Cities Values on your behalf on our property for purposes of delivering Twin Cities Values. This does not apply to delivery of the regular newspaper where it has been subscribed to by our residents. The addresses covered by this notice include all of the buildings and property from 5005 Holly Lane North, Plymouth, Minnesota, 55446, to 5235 Holly Lane North, Plymouth, Minnesota 55446. 1f you send anyone, be they an agent, employee, delivery person, independent contractor or whatever you choose to call them onto our property, we will request the city attorney of Plymouth to file trespass charges against you, as the corporate entity directing this unwanted intrusion upon our property. The appropriate subdivision of the statute is: (8) returns to the property of another within one year after being told to leave the property and not to return, if the actor is without claim of right to the property or consent of one with authority to consent... 640$ CITY WEST PARKWAY EDEN PRAdRIE, MINNESOTA 55044 (952) 922-5575 www.gassen.com /\ FA g@ 9y2-2004 You are hereby told you are not to return to the property, on the terms set out above. If you claim the consent of one with authority to consent; please follow the procedure outlined below. In addition, pursuant to Itlinnesota statutes section 609.68, the "Civil Litter Act" you are hereby notified that you may not deposit Twin Cities values upon our property as described above. We would note that subdivision 3 imposes civil liability for "papers" left without the consent of the owner of the land. Because of your repeated violations, please have the appropriate corporate officer respond to this notice in writing. If you wish to avoid litigation over this issue, or criminal charges, it will be helpful to receive a response from you, copying your delivery persons, agents, employees as set forth above so that they know they are not permitted on the Harvest Hills property except for regular delivery of requested subscriptions to the requested publications. If you have any questions please contact me directly at 452-253-4924 or spfeiffer(,a'-assen.conh. Sincerely, fes/ f: Steve Pfeiffer Property Manager Gassen Company CC: Roger Knutson Plymouth City Attorney 1380 Corporate Center Curve Suite 317 Eagan, MN 55121 Michael Goldstein_ Chief of Police Plymouth Police Department .3400 Plymouth Blvd. Plymouth, MN 55447-1482 Laurie Ahrens, City Manager 3400 Plymouth Blvd Plymouth, MN55447 Page 10 w a -a O to B �q G G Cis t n � e o y ro vii O j G O a o y x ro ery o ot tl rna a C) ro y lo: A 010 �� m n `° R '15' G or Y G O G v, o _ UG c5 A x z x Page 1`1 Request for Proposals Background The Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission (BCWMC) is a joint powers organization formed by the member cities of Crystal, Golden Valley, Medicine Lake, Minneapolis, Minnetonka, New Hope, Plymouth, Robbinsdale, and St. Louis Park. Initially organized to provide flood control, the BCWMC's primary emphasis is now on improving surface water quality. The BCWMC is governed by a nine -member Board of Commissioners with a representative appointed by each member community. Technical matters are addressed with assistance from a nine -member Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) with each member community appointing a staff representative to the committee. The Board has established subcommittees responsible for administration and education. Three consultants work at the board's direction: Barr Engineering Company, which provides engineering services; Kennedy & Graven, which provides legal services; and Virtual Administrative Services, which provides recording and administrative support services. City of Golden Valley staff provides financial management and bookkeeping services. In 2008, the BCWMC completed an organizational analysis and has been working since then to implement the recommendations of the study. These recommendations include: Increasing the organization's administrative capacity to coordinate and lead strategic planning and implementation, establish effective administrative procedures, provide project oversight, and facilitate communications among the Commission's members and stakeholders. Clarifying roles, responsibilities, and relationships of the Board, TAC, contractors and consultants. Ensuring alignment between the Commission's mission and strategic plan and annual work plans. The BWCMC first contracted with an administrator in 2010 to implement these recommendations. The Commission is now seeking to contract with a uniquely talented, flexible and creative individual to continue this effort. Scope of Services The Commission is seeking proposals from independent contractors to provide administrative leadership and coordination. Page 12 The services to be provided by the independent contractor are: 1. Facilitate the development and implementation of an updated watershed management plan to set strategic direction, goals, policies and work plans for the next 10 years. 2. Establish processes to increase the organization's efficiency and to reduce duplication of effort. 3. Serve as the primary point of contact for Commission business and coordinate activities among consultants. 4. Provide coordination with representatives of City, County, State and Federal agencies and other stakeholder groups. 5. Coordinate consultants' projects and activities; review invoices and recommend payment. B. Identify opportunities to secure grant funding and develop partnerships to accomplish the Commission's Watershed Management Plan. 7. Track implementation of BCWMC-funded annual water quality projects and activities to ensure that established objectives, project budgets, and schedules are met. 8. Develop a budget on an annual basis for consideration by the Commission. 9. Develop an annual work plan and reporting system in consultation with the Commission's Administrative Committee. 10. Develop agendas for meetings (monthly Commission meetings, TAC meetings and others as necessary). 11. Other duties or activities as may be directed by the Commission. Proposal Requirements Proposals must contain the following information: 1. Respondent's name, address, telephone number, e-mail and experience working as an independent contractor. 2. A statement detailing the understanding of the work and the approach that would be used to provide the requested services. 3. A summary of relevant experience in the following areas: a. Providing administrative direction and coordination services for a governing body b. Interacting with local government agencies on matters involving water management, planning, and civil engineering c. Developing and implementing administrative and financial processes d. Securing and managing grant funding Page 13 4. The resumes of the individual(s) who will be providing the requested services, noting any special or unique experiences and/or qualifications that the proposer brings to this assignment. 5. The availability to start this work and the resources available to take on this contract. Please comment on other ongoing commitments and ability to commit to a 12 -month service contract with the BCWMC. 6. The names and contact information for four professional references and a statement for each reference explaining how this individual is familiar with respondent's work. 7. The hourly rate that will be in effect for the 92 -month term of a contract. Please note that the Commission anticipates that completion of the work scope requires 65 to 75 hours per month. This position is an independent contractor who will be compensated by an agreed upon hourly rate. No further compensation will be provided for benefits, nor will the Commission provide a work space or office equipment to execute the work. Respondents should provide information on the organizational structure, if any, within which the respondent will work; i.e., a respondent who works within an organization that provides benefits, work space, etc., should indicate as much and provide a brief information on the organization. 8. A professional writing sample authored by the individual(s) who will be providing the requested services. Evaluation and Selection Criteria The BCWMC will review the proposals based on the following criteria: a. The proposer's understanding of the scope of services requested b. The proposer's experience and qualifications c. Experience with similar projects, especially watershed -related work d. Ability to meet project requirements as outlined in this Request for Proposals Emphasis will be placed on the following criteria Primary a. Administrative experience/training (especially government) b. Communications experience/training c. Writing and organization skills d. Planning experience/training e. Financial management experience f. Consultant -management experience Secondary a. Technical experience/training b. Water resources experience c. Facilities capacity d. Human resource support Page 14 Timeline and Submission Procedures The deadline for proposals is October 17, 2412, no later than 4:30 p.m. All proposals must be submitted electronically to Pat Schutrop, pschutropn_goldenvalleymn.gov, in a single PDF document. Questions Please direct all questions to: Ms. Ginny Black, Chair Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission c/o City of Plymouth 3400 Plymouth Boulevard Email: gblack�?a plymouthmn,gov • The BCWMC reserves the right to reject and/or award any or all proposals or parts thereof and to waive any technicalities or formalities according to the best interests of the Commission. • The BCWMC reserves the right to interview any or all proposers at its discretion. • The BCWMC reserves the right to negotiate an agreement with the selected proposer, including refining the scope of services to be provided and hourly rate. Page 15 St rTr i b n e West metro tax levy hikes range to near 7% • September 25, 2012 - 4:02 PM Local governments have set their maximum levies for next year, and in the west metro they range from a 0.0 percent increase in Chaska to a 6.95 percent hike in Bloomington. Most of the localities have included pay increases for public employees in their calculations, though some of those pay raises are subject to contract negotiations that are not yet complete. The final levies will be set in December, after truth -in -taxation hearings. They may only be adjusted downward. In Hennepin County, commissioners voted this month to cap next year's property levy increase at 1 percent, and the county administration slid in just under that, recommending a levy increase of 0.91 percent for 2013. After a pay freeze on employee salaries since 2009, most employees in Hennepin County will get a 2.5 percent raise next year with no step increases, although some locals have opted instead for a 1.5 percent pay increase with steps. Next year's pay increases amount to $13.7 million. In Carver County, commissioners are considering a maximum increase of 1.9 percent. Pay increases would total no more than $401,529, an increase of 0.9 percent over the 2012 budget. The increases consist of $100,000 in pay -for -performance salary boosts and $301,529 in other raises, including a 1.25 percent increase for employees at the maximum rate and 1.75 percent increase for employees not at the maximum rate. In west metro cities: In Bloomington, the proposed levy increase of 6.95 percent assumes an average employee pay raise of 2 percent; union contracts have not been finalized. More than $1 million of the increase goes to 11 priorities identified in a citizen survey, including park revitalization and low- interest home improvement loans. Edina, which contemplates a 2.5 percent increase in its 2013 levy, assumes about a 2 percent raise in salary and benefits for non-union employees. Police and another union also have received a 2 percent increase; firefighters got a 1 percent. Page 16 In Eden Prairie, the city expects a 2013 levy increase of 0.9 percent, with pay increases to total no more than $503,700. That would be a 2.7 percent increase from 2012. Step raises in an existing contract would total $85,000; an across-the-board raise for all steps would equal $418,700. In Chaska, which anticipates no levy increase, and Minnetonka, which has proposed a 1.5 percent levy increase, pay raises for 2013 will depend upon contract negotiations. In Golden Valley, the 3.3 percent levy increase will help cover a 1 percent cost -of -living pay increase for employees. Maple Grove, anticipating a 1.41 percent levy increase, has settled one union contract for 2013 with 1.5 percent raises. Other contracts are still being negotiated. In Plymouth, which has proposed a 1.94 percent levy hike, negotiations are still pending for most employees, except for police and sergeants, who have agreed to 2 percent pay increases. In Richfield, which proposes a levy hike of 4.5 percent, employees generally are getting a pay increase of 2 percent, said City Manager Steve Devich. More than $2 million of the levy increase would go to debt service for things like street improvements and the new City Hall. The expiration of a tax increment financing district means that more properties will be taxable, which Devich said should ease the impact on homeowners. In Robbinsdale, which has proposed a 0.74 percent levy increase, the city will negotiate employee contracts later this year, with City Manager Marcia Glick saying they expect a "modest" increase in salaries after pay freezes three of the past four years. The budget includes $80,000 in annual debt for a building project. In St. Louis Park, which has proposed a 4 percent levy increase, the city has budgeted 2 percent raises for employees. In addition to supporting general operations, the levy increase will be used to pay down debt and add to parks and capital replacement funds. At Three Rivers Park District, which has proposed a levy increase of 2.8 percent, commissioners have asked for two scenarios regarding pay increases. Both are based on step increases for union employees and merit increases for non-union. One scenario includes a maximum 1 percent merit increase for nonunion employees and an increase to the top of the pay grade of 1 percent. The second scenario includes a maximum 2 percent merit increase for nonunion employees and an increase to the top of the pay grade of 2 percent. Only the top step of the union employees' pay steps would get increases under both scenarios. The maximum increase would be $348,492 -- about 2 percent more. Page 17 St rTirib ne 2013 levies in west metro September 25, 2012 - 4:58 PM 2012 levy 2013 levy* Percent (millions) (millions) change Bloomington $44.4 $47.5 6.95% Chanhassen $10.15 $10.33 1.8% Chaska $4.88 $4.88 0.0% Eden Prairie $30.6 $30.9 0.9% Edina $26.2 $26.9 2.5% Golden Valley $16.4 $16.9 3.3% Maple Grove $31.19 $31.63 1.41 % Minnetonka $30.6 $31.0 1.5% Plymouth $28.7 $29.3 1.94% Richfield $16.98 $17.7 4.5% Robbinsdale $5.38 $5.42 0.74% St. Louis Park $23.76 $24.7 4.0% Carver County $44.7 $45.6 1.9% Hennepin County $668.4 $674.5 0.91% Three Rivers Park District $40.28 $41.4 2.8% * Proposed; levies may be revised downward Page 18 September 25, 2012 On Thursday, September 13, the Federal Reserve's Federal Open Market Committee announced plans to purchase $40 billion a month in mortgage-backed securities for an indefinite period of time. This is the third round of "quantitative easing" by the Fed since early 2009 (hence the common acronym "QE3"). The Fed's statement said the plan "should put downward pressure on longer-term interest rates, support mortgage markets, and help to make broader financial conditions more accommodative." The Fed also announced it will continue its existing bond reinvestment program called "Operation Twist" and extend the period in which it expects to keep short-term rates at "extremely low levels" from late 2014 to mid - 2015. A copy of the Fed statement is available here. Unlike the previous two rounds of QE, this new round will not include the direct purchase of U.S. Treasury securities. As noted above, Operation Twist will continue througb the end of the calendar year. At that point, the world's largest purchaser and holder of U.S. Treasury paper may be exiting that market. Additionally, all previous versions of QE came with both an expected expiration date and explicitly -stated sum of purchases. This most recent measure is in an unlimited form with no upper bound. Markets React Although the Fed's stated intention is to hold down longer-term interest rates, the immediate effect was the opposite. The Fed's action appeared to buoy the hopes of equity investors, driving stock prices higher and bond prices lower. Yields for both U.S. Treasuries and municipal bonds increased on Thursday afternoon and on Friday (September 13 and 14). The 10 -year AAA municipal bond yield, as reported by Thomson Reuters MMD, reached 1.93% late Friday, its highest level since April 14. During the week of September 17, these trends largely reversed. Stock prices fell, and yields on both U.S. Treasuries and munis declined. As the table below shows, muni yields ended the day last Friday very close to where they had been two weeks earlier. Trends in Municipal Bond Yields September 7 to September 21, 2012 Source: Thomson Reuters Municipal Market Data *' The Bond Buye Average yield on a portfolio of municipal bonds maturing in 20 years, with an average rating of AA/Aa2. "MI :i" ,� si -._, r. ^"'i-.ia'.- .fin °�'e?„ ` a-' �: EHLERS LEADERS IN POW; HNANCE 800.552.1171 J%EHLERS MESTMENT PARTNERS 800.717.9742 BOND TRUST 5ERNACE5 C i2 u P U R R 'f 'S f1 N 666.685.2533 Ehlors tnc, Ehlers lfilier tent Paltnarl, and C3md Twat &gMce- are sijhsidisria, of Ehlera Holding Comparw Page 19 Sept- 7, 2012 Se t.. 21, 2012 Change AAA Yields* 5 Years 0.70% 0.69% -0.01% 10 Years 1.78% 1.79% 0.01% 20 Years 2.49% 2.51% 0.02% 30 Years 2.92% 2.95% 0.03% Bond Bu er20 Bond Index`* 3.73% 1 3.72% -0.01% Source: Thomson Reuters Municipal Market Data *' The Bond Buye Average yield on a portfolio of municipal bonds maturing in 20 years, with an average rating of AA/Aa2. "MI :i" ,� si -._, r. ^"'i-.ia'.- .fin °�'e?„ ` a-' �: EHLERS LEADERS IN POW; HNANCE 800.552.1171 J%EHLERS MESTMENT PARTNERS 800.717.9742 BOND TRUST 5ERNACE5 C i2 u P U R R 'f 'S f1 N 666.685.2533 Ehlors tnc, Ehlers lfilier tent Paltnarl, and C3md Twat &gMce- are sijhsidisria, of Ehlera Holding Comparw Page 19 Federal Subsidies for BABS and Other Bonds in Jeopardy? On Friday, September 14, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) sent a report to Congress saying that federal subsidy payments to issuers of Build America Bonds (BABS) and other "direct pay" bonds could be cut by 7.6% in fiscal year 2013. The cuts would be implemented under the "sequestration" process mandated by the Budget Control Act of 2011, if Congress and the President fail to take action by the end of the year to sufficiently reduce the federal deficit. The cuts would affect not only BABs, but also Qualified School Construction Bonds (QSCBs), Qualified Zone Academy Bonds (QZABs), and Qualified Energy Conservation Bonds (QECBs) — if these bonds were issued as direct -pay bonds_ Market participants reacted with outrage to this announcement. BABS were a key provision of the 2009 federal stimulus bill. They allowed state and local governments to issue taxable bonds with a federal subsidy equal to 35% of each interest payment, rather than the more typical tax-exempt bonds. The "HIRE" act of 2010 created the option for issuers of some of the other three types of bonds listed above to issue these as "direct pay" taxable bonds, with an even higher federal subsidy rate. Treasury Department officials assured issuers in 2009 that they could rely on receiving the subsidy payments for the life of the bonds. If you issued any of these direct -pay bonds, feel free to contact an Ehlers financial advisor to discuss the impact of these potential reductions in subsidy payments and options to consider if the sequestration materializes. One option may include a refunding. Some direct -pay bonds were sold with "extraordinary call provisions" that may allow for a current refunding by tax-exempt bonds if the federal subsidies are reduced. Given current low tax-exempt rates, a current refunding of this debt may produce positive savings and reduce future risks of the reduction or elimination of the federal subsidy payments. Some Positive Economic News The National League of Cities released its annual "City Fiscal Condition" report on September 13. After surveying city finance officers nationwide, they reported that 57% of cities said they are "better able to meet fiscal needs than in 2011." While the report noted significant fiscal challenges in the near term, it also concluded that "fiscal conditions have passed the low point of the effects of the recession, with conditions beginning to improve relative to previous years...." For a copy of the press release and the full report, click here. There also was some positive news on the housing market last week. The Census Bureau reported that housing starts and permits rose substantially in August. Separately, the National Association of Realtors reported that sales of previously occupied homes climbed 7.8% from a year ago. (CNN Money, September 19, 2012). ��i,,p rt.� i x � �• � X �� � •°8 _ .. F, _ kris, E 110 b. .a' .�,c.�:�' � . ,� .'•.40 x.--.�. � atga._ ,� � '!�. ,'...r�a..>.....r :. '9`^� se;?� "?$ t � � - :ea<; .-,C °-s�. _. -'.=n� z,xxa��:a ��4'.a r-� 4a EHLERS LEADERS W PUBLIC FINWE 800L52.1171 EHLERS INVESTMENT PARTURS 800.717.9742 BO N D TPIUST SERVICES tc , a e o a .a r i n €366.685.2533 E_hlws Inc. Ehlors lrrvft stwint Paqnr;rn and Bond Tara# S.svlces are, m.ihs=duarins of Ehlr;rs Holding t mpany Page 20 PLYN°UT FIRE -RESCUE FOUR MONTH REPORT MAY -AUGUST 2012 During the second four months of 2012, the Department answered 480 calls for service (19% fewer calls than the second four months of 2011 and 8% fewer calls than the same time period in 2010). During the second four months of 2012, the highest call volume occurred between the hours of 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. The busiest day of the week was Friday. Seventy-one percent of calls for service were received between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Seventy-eight percent of all calls were "Duty Crew" calls. Responses were divided between the fire stations as follows: TOTAL CALLS 1050 1019 1000 950 909 880 900 850 800 Jan -Aug 2010 Jan -Aug 2011 Jan -Aug 2012 In the second four months of 2012, we responded to an average of four calls per day. STATION COMPARISON 230 180 130 - ■ May -Aug 2010 - 1 ■ May -Aug 2011 80 E3 May -Aug 2012 30 -20 1 2 3 This chart shows another look at how the three stations compare in numbers of calls. Historically, Fire Station 2 has the highest call volume. Page 21 May -Aug 2010 May -Aug; 2011 May -Aug 2012 Station I (13205 Co. Rd. 6) 150 169 136 Station II (12000 Old Rockford Rd.) 221 208 189 Station III (3300 Dunkirk Ln.) 153 213 155 524 590 480 TOTAL CALLS 1050 1019 1000 950 909 880 900 850 800 Jan -Aug 2010 Jan -Aug 2011 Jan -Aug 2012 In the second four months of 2012, we responded to an average of four calls per day. STATION COMPARISON 230 180 130 - ■ May -Aug 2010 - 1 ■ May -Aug 2011 80 E3 May -Aug 2012 30 -20 1 2 3 This chart shows another look at how the three stations compare in numbers of calls. Historically, Fire Station 2 has the highest call volume. Page 21 CALLS BY TIME OF DAY 140 120 100 ■ May -Aug 2010 80 1:160 May -Aug 2011 40 ❑ May -Aug 2012 20 0 0600- 0900- 1200- 1500- 1800- 2100- 0000- 0300- 0900 1200 1500 1800 2100 2400 0300 0600 Typically our calls follow a wave-like pattern with calls increasing during the day and then decreasing during the evening and overnight hours. This pattern has been consistent throughout the years. CALLS BY DAY OF WEEK 120 100 80 ■ May -Aug 2010 60 40 ❑ May -Aug 2011 20 jr 0 o May -Aug 2012 This chart illustrates that call volumes are generally consistent throughout the week, but decrease slightly on the weekends. 2 Page 22 Simultaneous Calls 120 100 - 103 80 ❑ May -Aug 20101 60 79 o May -Aug 2011 40 5 16May-Aug 2012 20 0 Simultaneous calls are defined as a call received prior to clearing from one or more initial calls. In the second four months of 2011, 11% of calls received were overlapping calls. Incident Summary The department responds to several different types of incidents throughout the year. The following graphs provide further details on these incidents, and the amount of fire loss that occurs throughout the second four months of 2012. Calls By Event Type False Alarms M WUJi 36% Good Intent Calls20% Firest9%7Rescue/EMS13 oHazardous Conditions11,10 Service Calls 9% Overpressure/Explosi... 1% Severe Weather 1% Other 0% 0% 20% 40% This chart illustrates a breakdown of call event types throughout the second four months of the year. The percentage of false alarms is relatively steady throughout the years, despite the growing number of alarm systems installed in the City. The Department responds to a large number of good intent calls, an example of a good intent call would be steam mistaken for smoke. An example of a service call would be assisting with locating a FIRE LOSS SUMMARY $6,000,000 $4,874,652 $5,000,000 $4,000,000 $3,000,000 $2,000,000 $1,000,000 $239,800 $0 $677,60o Jan -Aug 2010 Jan -Aug 2011 Jan -Aug 2012 One or two large loss fires can significantly raise the property loss for the entire year. In the first eight months of 2012, there were fewer structure fires reported and less dollar loss than in the same time period from 2011. missing person. 3 Page 23 In -Service and Response Times In-service and on -scene (total response) times for emergency events are as follows. Duty Crew and non - Duty Crew times, as well as station responses, are noted. May -Aug 2010 May -Aug 2011 May -Aug 2012 DC In -Svc Onscene In -Svc Onscene In -Svc Onscene 1:04 6:16 1:17 6:47 1:05 6:08 Non -DC 6:31 10:33 7:30 11:45 8:19 12:25 Sta.1 6:41 10:19 8:02 11:55 7:36 11:42 Sta.11 6:10 10:13 7:06 11:27 8:45 13:06 Sta.111 7:04 11:25 7:38 12:33 8:16 10:38 In-service times reflect the time from dispatch to the time the first suppression apparatus goes into service. Increased traffic congestion, additional traffic control devices and an increased emphasis upon firefighter safety contribute to longer in-service times. In-service times are one component when measuring the total response time to an event. During the Duty Crew hours of operation, both in-service and total response times are similar. An option to reduce total response time would be to staff two stations. RESPONSE TIME FOR EMERGENCY CALLS 14:24 10:33 1:45 12:00 9:36 6:16 6:47 6:08 ■ May -Aug 2010 7:12 ❑ May -Aug 2011 4:48 ❑ May -Aug 2012 2:24 0:00 DC Non -DC Our current organizational model offers two distinct levels of service. In the second four months of 2012, the Duty Crew had an average response time of 6:08 and non -Duty Crew was 12:25. Response times are the total of in service time combined with travel time. 4 Page 24 Events By Property Use Residential Outside or Special Property Merchantile, Business Assembly Manufacturing Educational Health Care, Detention & Correction Storage Industrial 18% 16% 14% 12% 10% 8% 6% 4% 2% 0% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% Residential properties continue to constitute a majority of our calls for service. Seventy-three percent of the city is defined as residential. Call Volume By Month Jan -Aug 2012 Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug. Call volume by month. Warm weather months tend to generate a larger variety of call types. 5 Page 25 53° 28% 8% r2%2% 1% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% Residential properties continue to constitute a majority of our calls for service. Seventy-three percent of the city is defined as residential. Call Volume By Month Jan -Aug 2012 Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug. Call volume by month. Warm weather months tend to generate a larger variety of call types. 5 Page 25 100 1 2 0 80 E# of Firefighters Left 60 the Dept. 40 71 66 73 I o Firefighter Staffing 20 Levels 0 May -Aug May -Aug May -Aug 2010 2011 2012 At the end of the reporting period, the total staffing level for paid -on call firefighters are indicated in the blue section of the chart above with the maroon section reflecting how many POC firefighters left the department during the second four months of each year. As shown above, no members left the department during the second four months of 2012. Firefighter Hiring During the second four months of 2012, four new probationary firefighters started. The Department also began accepting applications and is currently in the middle of moving forward with an additional 2012 class hiring. Firefighter Time Commitment During the second four months of 2011, paid -on-call firefighters worked an average of 155 hours each. During the second four months, thirteen topics were offered during 32 regularly scheduled in-house training sessions. These topics included Safety & Survival, Boat, Hi Rise Operations, Ladders, Rope Rescue, Highway Safety, Water Rescue, Rescue Equipment, EMS, Vent -Enter -Search, RIT Company Operations, and Make -Up. Additional training opportunities were offered during Duty Crew, and for members of the RAD team. Seventy-eight members participated in training activities during these four months. The total number of hours spent on in-house and outside training activities was 2052 - an average of over 26 hours per participating member. This compares to an average of over 17 hours per participating member during the same reporting period in 2011. 6 Page 26 Duty Crew Program The Duty Crew Program was in operation Monday thru Saturday during the third quarter of 2012. Sixty members participated in the program. The program continues to be popular among the paid -on-call firefighters. Over the last four months, more than 82% of department members have chosen to participate in the program. During the third quarter of the 2012, 98% of all shifts were fully staffed with 4 or more firefighters. During our busiest time period (3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.), 98% of the shifts were fully staffed. CALLS FOR SERVICE May-Aug2012 22%, _ 78% 13 Duty Crew © Non -Duty Crew This chart shows that we consistently receive most calls for service during Duty Crew times. This has historically held true for the past ten years. The Duty Crew program was in operation six days a week (Monday thru Saturday) from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. during the third quarter of 2012. 7 1% 94% DUTY CREW STAFFING May - August 2012 0.5%0.5% U 136 Firefighters 4 �0 05 Firefighters 134 Firefighters ®3 Firefighters 00 Firefighters The Fire Department considers a fully staffed truck to be at least four firefighters. Eleven shifts during the third quarter were under -staffed. Two shifts were cancelled due to inadequate staffing. Under -staffed shifts (three firefighters) shifts result in reduced crew integrity and efficiency. Crews also operate at a greater risk of injury when under -staffed. Page 27 PqMOuT FIRE-RESCUE Plymouth Fire Department Prevention and Life Safety Education Report May -August 2012 • 481 Bike Helmets Sold • 12 Water Safety Posters Sold • 4 Carbon Monoxide Detectors Type of Program Number of Programs Program Hours Station Tours 13 13 Parks and Wrec program 8 9 Pre-school Visits 27 27 K-6 Education Events Career Talks 3 4 ECFE Classes Bike Helmet Programs 9 19 Car Seat Check-ups 66 66 Assist North Memorial Smokebusters/Seniors 86 86 Smokebusters/Families 7 7 Adopt A Hydrant Program Visits Block Parties 4 5 Parades 4 4 Night to Unite Programs 3 9 Fire Department Open Houses Home Alone Classes 2 6 Apartment Programming 5 10 CO Detector Initiative Fire Extinguisher Training Sessions 5 5 Business Safety Fairs 1 2 Business Fire Drills 1 1 PC&FPF Public Education Training Sessions 1 1 Public Education Meetings 1 2 Literature Drops Diversity Outreach Programs Misc. Programming 11 22 Special Projects CERT May -August 2012 Totals 257 298 Average 1.2 Hour Per Program 8 Page 28