HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Information Memorandum 12-20-2012CITY OF PLYMOUTH
rp) COUNCIL INFO MEMO
December 20, 2012
EVENTS / MEETINGS
December 2012 and January and February 2013 Official City Meeting Calendars ............................ Page 1
Tentative List of Agenda Items for Future City Council Meetings ..................................................... Page 4
Opening of the Abbott Northwestern-WestHealth's Emergency Dept. & Urgent Care 01/05/13 ....... Page 5
MLC Regional Legislative Breakfast Meeting 02/01/13.................................................................... Page 6
;4 a .. 9%19 ►]� 1 CSL
Memo from Laurie Ahrens RE: Construction of Luce Line Trail Pedestrian Bridge .......................... Page 7
Memo from Lowell Luebeck RE: Outdoor Ice Rinks......................................................................... Page 9
Letter to Plymouth Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Committee RE: Volunteer Efforts of Plymouth
HomeDepot................................................................................................................................. Page 10
Letter to Hennepin County Commission RE: Proposed Consolidation ............................................ Page 11
Letter from MCWD RE: 2013 AIS Proposal — Response to City Comments ................................... Page 13
Letter to Property Owners RE: Conditional Use Permit to Exceed 50% Office Use ........................ Page 18
Ehlers Market Commentary 12/18/12............................................................................................... Page 19
Honeywell Keeps Innovation Close to Home, Star Tribune............................................................. Page 26
REPORTS
Net Tax Base Lost to Fiscal Disparities............................................................................................ Page 29
Itasca Project Regional Transit System............................................................................................. Page 32
MINUTES
Park & Recreation Advisory Commission (PRAC) 10/11/12........................................................... Page 44
Environmental Quality Committee (EQC) 11/14/12......................................................................... Page 49
Wayzata Communities in Collaboration Council (CICC) 12/12/12 .................................................. Page 51
City of
Plymouth
Adding Quality to Life
December 2012
Modified on 12/ 19/ 12 Plymouth Ice
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SPECIAL COUNCIL
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MEETING
COMMISSION
OLD FASHIONED
Council Goals and
MEETING
CHRISTMAS
Priorities
Council Chambers
Plymouth Historical
Medicine Lake Room
Society Building
Chanukah
Begins at Sunset
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ENVIRONMENTAL
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PARK ft REC
Discuss Board ft
COMMITTEE (EQC)
ADVISORY
Commission Interview
MEETING
COMMISSION
Process
Council Chambers
(PRAC) MEETING
Medicine Lake Room
7:00 PM
Council Chambers
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CHARTER
REGULAR COUNCIL
COMMISSION
MEETING
ANNUAL MEETING
Council Chambers
Medicine Lake Room
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CITY
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OFFICES
CHRISTMAS DAY
LOSE AT/ NEW
12:00 PM YEAR'S
CITY OFFICES
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CLOSED
6:00 PM
New Years
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r�Plymouth
Adding Quality to Life
January 2013
Modified on 12119112
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NEW YEAR'S DAY
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ENVIRONMENTAL
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City Manager
QUALITY
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Performance Review
COMMITTEE
COMMISSION
Parkers Lake Room
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E C MEETING
(Q)
PRAC MEETING
Council Chambers
Council Chambers
7:00 PM
REGULAR COUNCIL
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Council Chambers
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SPECIAL COUNCIL
PLANNING
MEETING
COMMISSION
Board and Commission
MEETING
Interviews
Council Chambers
Medicine Lake Room
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SPECIAL COUNCIL
7:0O PM
7:00 PM
MEETING
PLYMOUTH ADVISORY
HRA MEETING
MARTIN LUTHER
Discuss Fire Relief
COMMITTEE ON
TRANSIT (PACT)
Medicine Lake Room
KING JR.
Assoc. Pension IncreasE
STUDY SESSION
BIRTHDAY
Medicine Lake Room
Medicine Lake Room
Observed
7:00 PM
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REGULAR COUNCIL
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MEETING
Council Chambers
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r�Plymouth
Adding Quality to Life
February 2013
Modified on 12119112
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FIRE 13 ICE
FESTIVAL
Parkers Lake
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7:00 PM
PLANNING
HUMAN RIGHTS
COMMISSION
COMMITTEE
MEETING
MEETING
Council Chambers
Medicine Lake Room
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7:00 PM
STATE OF THE
ENVIRONMENTAL
PARK Et REC
CITY
QUALITY
ADVISORY
Council Chambers
COMMITTEE
COMMISSION
(EQC) MEETING
(PRAC) MEETING
Council Chambers
Council Chambers
7:00 PM
REGULAR COUNCIL
MEETING
Council Chambers
Ash Wednesday
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PRESIDENTS
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DAY
MEETING
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PLYMOUTH ADVISORY
7:00 PM
REGULAR COUNCIL
COMMITTEE ON
HRA MEETING
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TRANSIT (PACT)
Medicine Lake Room
Council Chambers
REGULAR MEETING
Medicine Lake Room
Modified on 12119112
Page 3
Tentative Schedule for
City Council Agenda Items
January 8, Special (Closed Meeting), 6:00 p.m., Parkers Lake Room
• City Manager's Performance Review
January 8, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers
• Oath of Office to Councilmembers Johnson, Wosie, Stein, and Willis
• Announce "Skate with the Mayor" on January 18 at Parkers Lake
• Appoint 2013 Health Officer
• Appoint 2013 City Council Secretary
• Appoint 2013 Official Depositories
• Designate 2013 Official Newspaper
• Approve a Preliminary Plat and Final Plat for Hampton Hills Investment, LLC/Hampton Hills
South Plateau 3rd Addition (2012093)
• Conditional Use Permit for Amerco Real Estate Co./Truck and Trailer Rental in conjunction with
Self Storage at 1225 Highway 169
• Consider Lawful Gambling Request of Hamel -Plymouth VFS Post 5903, 19020 Hamel Road
January 15, Special, 6:00 p.m., Medicine Lake Conference Room
• Board and Committee Interviews
January 22, Special, 5:30 p.m., Medicine Lake Conference Room
• Discuss request of Fire Relief Association for pension increase
January 22, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers
• Announce Fire and Ice on February 2
• Approve 2013 On -Sale Intoxicating Liquor License Renewals
• Approve 2013 On -Sale and Off -Sale 3.2 Liquor License Renewals
• Approve 2013 Off -Sale Liquor License Renewals
• Approve 2013 On -Sale Wine and 3.2 Liquor License Renewals
• Approve appointments of Board and Commission Members
• Approve 2013 Council Coordinating Representatives and other agency appointments
• Approve Appointment of Deputy Mayor for 2013
February 12, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers
February 26, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers
March 12, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers
March 141 Board and Committee Recognition Event, 5:30 p.m., Plymouth Creek Center
March 19, Regular, 7:00 p.m. Council Chambers
Note: Special Meeting topics have been set by Council; all other topics are tentative. Page 4
New Emer ency Department
00
and Urge, t Care will open
in Plymouth on Jan. 7, 2013
0o
You are invited to celebrate the
opening of Abbott Northwestern
— WestHealth's Emergency
p
Department and Urgent Care.
This new 18,000 square foot building
is designed to provide patients wi
the right care in the right setting,
integrating WestHealth's already
successful Urgent Care model into
the expanded capabilities of an
emergency department that will
be staffed by doctors from Abbott
_
Northwestern who specialize in
emergency medicine.
,ONO
Community Open House
Saturday, Jan. 5, 2013
9 a.m. — noon
ours, refreshments and gifts. 'lease join us!
CMUNICIPAL
LEGISLATI`OE
COMMISSION
SAVE THE DATE FQR
MLC Regional Legislative Breakfast Meeting
Friday, February 111, 2013
7:30 A.M. - 9:00 A.M.
Braemar Golf Clubhouse, Edina
Invitation to Follow
Breakfast reception for Legislators, Mayors, Councilors and City Managers of:
Bloomington, Eden Prairie, Edina, Maple Grove, Minnetonka, Plymouth and Shakopee,
Please contact Carolyn LaViolette with any questions at 651-556-9205
or claviolette@rnesserlikramer.com
Page 6
MEMO
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MN 55447
DATE: December 20, 2012
TO: Laurie Ahrens, City Manager
FROM: Diane Evans, Director of Parks and Recreation
CC: Barb Northway, Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: Construction of the Luce Line Trail Pedestrian Bridge
Construction of the Luce Line Trail pedestrian bridge (over Xenium) is anticipated to begin in
July 2013, with completion by spring 2014. As a result of the construction, Three Rivers Park
District will need to close a portion of the trail and detour users around the construction site.
Three Rivers Park District has requested use of the Gleanloch Park trail as the detour route.
Please see map below. (Red line depicts the detour - yellow line the Luce Line Trail.)
- � it ♦. 1 I � l
7
The detour route will take Luce Line users off of the trail just east of Xenium Lane, through
Gleanloch Park. From Gleanloch Park they well head west on 6t" Avenue, crossing Xenium Lane
(a controlled intersection) to the west side of the road. On Xenium Lane, they will head north
for the final connection back onto the Luce Line trail.
Three Rivers Park District will be responsible for the placement and removal of detour signs.
Staff will be working closely with the Park District to coordinate the timing of the closure to
help ensure proper notification to the public.
Staff will also be working with Three Rivers Park District to ensure that the design of the bridge
will accommodate Plymouth and Park District equipment for maintenance and/or snow
removal.
Page 8
MEMO
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MN 55447
DATE: December 17, 2012
TO: Laurie Ahrens, City Manager
FROM: Lowell Luebeck, Park Maintenance Supervisor
SUBJECT: Outdoor Ice Rinks
Background: The Park division started putting water down to build ice
the week of November 26th. Our goal was to get moisture into the
ground to help it seal up and let the ground freeze.
Discussion: Since then we have had temperatures in the 40's and 50's
that took the little bit of frost that was in the ground out. This followed
by the 12 plus inches of snow we received December 9th acts like a cover
of insulation which put us back to where we started. The good thing is
that moist ground does freeze faster than dry ground. The parks crew has
removed the snow from the rinks to allow the cold temperatures to re -
freeze the ground. We will be applying light coats of water as we try to
re-establish a base for the rinks.
Conclusion: Based on the forecast, and if we do not have another major
snow event, I feel we may have safe/skatable ice by January 1 st. Rinks
have different rates that you may build ice and certain rinks may be
available sooner or later than others. As for Parkers Lake there were still
ducks swimming in the rink area of the lake as of yesterday. I will keep
you informed on our progress.
Cc: Diane Evans, Parks and Recreation Director
Barb Northway, Parks and Recreation Deputy Director
Regina Michaud, Recreation Manager
Jessie Converse, Recreation Coordinator
p:\organization\council\council information memorandums\2012\122012\memo 2 - lowell luebeck re outdoor skating
rinks.docx Page 9
12/13/12
Dear Plymouth Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Committee,
I want to express my deep gratitude for your kindness toward my family.
Your mobilizing to help us in our time of need was truly amazing. I can hardly
believe that Travis and Home Depot, through your group, gave us the gift of a snow
blower that will allow my husband to take care of our driveway and a Toys R Us gift
card for baby supplies. We moved into our first home just after Thanksgiving and
were filled with Soy, pride, and excitement, but as the snow fell last Sunday those
feelings were replaced with dread. Quickly we were overwhelmed by feeling that
we were in over our heads, but yesterday Travis erased that feeling for us and now
we are simply overwhelmed with gratitude:
Thank you all for additionally giving'fny husband the dignity of taking care
his own home and family. It was hard to Watch him struggle with not being able to
do what he, the man of the house, the Marine, thought he should be able to do. We
have never had to ask for help before and.your quick, generous response was so
Much more than we could have asked for. r am still shocked that within four hours
for receiving my request Gary and Travis had a snow blower in my garage. It is
going to take me ten times that long to believe it is real =). We really can't thank
you enough and we hope you know that you have made us feel very blessed and
appreciated for T service.
With thanks,
Page 10
December 5, 2012
4141 Douglas Drive North - Crystal, Minnesota 55422-1696
Tel: (763) 53 1 -1000 - Fax: (763) 531-1188 - www.ci.crystal.mn.us
Hennepin County Commissioner Jeff Johnson
Hennepin County Commission
A-2400 Government Center
300S.6 th Street
Minneapolis, MN 55487-0240
Subject: Proposed Consolidation of WMO's and WD's into Four WD's
Dear Commissioner Johnson:
The City of Crystal has concerns regarding Hennepin County's proposed legislation
reorganizing watershed management organizations and the underlying premise that
creating larger government somehow creates fiscal conservancy and greater
transparency. All indications are the proposal would reduce or potentially eliminate
local influence on water quality issues affecting our individual cities.. Local financial
control affecting municipal stakeholders would likely also be lost.
It appears that some of the impetus for the County's initiation of the University of
Minnesota's 2011 study on water (watershed) governance was a lack of confidence in
the track record of state and local agencies, including the WMO's, to improve water
quality. If this is in fact the case, this impression of the track record of both Shingle
Creek and Bassett Creek WMO's could not be further from the truth. Both entities have
been extremely effective in managing both water volume (flooding) and improving water
quality. Presently, 13 cities comprise the Bassett Creek and Shingle Creek Watershed
Management Organizations. Both of these organizations have operated very
successfully under joint powers agreements as authorized by state statute.
The City of Crystal feels that the current system has served our constituents very well
and the two organizations are very adept and efficient at assessing project needs,
allocating costs, and locating funding sources through combinations of grants, municipal
contributions, direct property levies, and other sources.
City staff has issues in the manner in which the U of M study was conducted. All
indications are that it only addressed public policy and did not engage municipal
stakeholders and related regulatory authorities. The following are specific concerns
regarding the study and any potential legislative outcome:
Page 11
Commissioner Jeff Johnson
December 4, 2012
Page Two
1. There was inadequate local input into the study from watershed commissioners
and related city staff;
2. The Board of Water and Soil Resources had little input in the study development;
3. WMO project improvements to date and associated cost/benefit apparently were
not included as part of the study's evaluation and recommendations process;
4. The study did not consider the impact of a potentially new funding source
mechanism and related allocation impact on cities;
5. It appears that the proposal to create three "super watersheds" will considerably
reduce local input and financial control;
6. Local needs to meet NPDES/MS4 requirements could easily be lost in the likely
competition for dollars going to respective super watershed commissioner
territories; and
7. Local projects may well go unfunded while the larger super watersheds build
more grandiose and publicly popular projects.
The City of Crystal has made considerable financial investment over the years in
meeting the requirements of the NPDES regulations, and beyond that, simply doing the
right thing regardless of regulations. This has been done both on the City's own
initiative and also as a willing participate in the two WMO's. The City considers the
existing WMO governance process to be the most cost effective and beneficial method
to manage, maintain, and improve the quality of area surface and ground water
resources.
For the reasons discussed above, the City of Crystal is not in favor of the proposed
change in watershed governance in Hennepin County.
Sincrely,
An Norris
Ci Manager
Cc: Crystal Mayor and City Council
Hennepin County Commissioner Mike Opat
Tom Mathisen, Crystal Public Works Director
Page 12
MINNEHAHA CREEK I
The Minnehaha 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
public funds.
QUALITY OF WATER
December 11, 2012
Derek Asche
Water Resources Manager
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, Minnesota 55447-1482
I WATERSHED DISTRICT
QUALITY OF LIFE
Re: Proposed Additional AIS Prevention Activities for 2013
Dear Mr. Asche:
Thank you for responding to our request for comments on the MCV,/D's proposed plan
for additional AIS prevention activities in 2013. In all, we received about a dozen
comments from units of local government out of the more than 30 within the District
that were asked. At its meeting on December 6, 2012, the MCWD Board of Managers
approved the plan; however, it decided not to fund it through an increase in the tax
levy, but rather to consider internal sources of funding at its meeting on December 13.
I apologize for the delay in responding to the questions that you listed a few weeks
ago. I'm taking this opportunity to do so.
1. The model for the development of the long-range AIS management plan has
a broad community-based Task Force that identifies what should be
accomplished in the plan. It is supported by a Technical Advisory
Committee, whose participants include DNR, county, park district staff
members as well as professors at the University of Minnesota. Its role is to
provide technical information to the Task Force regarding AIS and its
expertise with operating public programs.
2. The self -certification program is designed to provide training to residents
who would like to learn about proper ways to inspect their watercraft. It is
hoped that the DNR will recognize this certification, and thus it could speed
the inspection process for the self -certified to launch their watercraft. The
cost for the program would be for training and materials and, while the fee
has not been set, it may likely be $25 or less. The District, like cities, can
set fees only for recovering the cost of providing the service which, in this
case, is like a community education course or a city recreation program.
Page 13
18202 Minnetonka Boulevard, Deephaven, MN 55391 a Office: (952) 471-0590 0 Fax: (952) 471-0682 • www.minneha-hacreek.org
Derek Asche
December 11, 2012
Page 2
3. The potential additions in the watercraft inspection program are acknowledged not to be able
to cover completely the entire system of public boat accesses within the District. Any
inspection program is part of a risk management approach in the variety of AIS prevention
measures; a schedule for any inspection activity is best designed to handle the most boat
launch activity for the funds available to conduct them. As the District does not control any
public boat accesses, it must work in partnership with those agencies that do control them to
provide the level of watercraft inspections at their launches. The District has provided cost -
share arrangements with those agencies that wanted to increase their inspection activities in
2012 (Carver County, City of Shorewood, Lake Minnetonka Conservation District,
Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board), and would continue to do so :with other willing
partners in 2013. The DNR, Hennepin County, Three Rivers Park District, and Lake
Minnetonka Conservation District are currently handling inspections on Lake Minnetonka,
and the MCWD would be interested in providing cost -share funding to any of these agencies.
The District does not know which public access will be included in the watercraft inspection
cost -share program, nor the level of service {A through C) that will be provided, until local
units of government indicate that they will provide the service on a cost -share basis. The
District does intend to provide the roaming inspectors (service level D) on its own, in order to
have some presence at public accesses on lakes that have relatively lower levels of boats
launched, provided that the agency controlling that access allows the MCWD to perform
services there.
4. The MCWD does not have authority to control private shoreline access of watercraft onto the
lakes within the District. Outreach, communications, and education are the primary tools to
reach that public, and to stress the personal responsibility that those residents have in
preventing the introduction and spread of AIS.
5. In terms of fishing piers, platforms, and shore fishing facilities: public outreach,
communications, and education remain the primary tools to reach the public that uses those
facilities. The District also plays a resource role to provide information to other local units of
government to help them in their communications to their residents. We are looking into
ways that are effective in delivering messages to different groups of interests that will help
them to be able to do (rather than just know about) the right things regarding AIS.
6. In terms of the role of the MCWD to secure additional funding sources or partnerships with
other agencies, the MCWD will be soliciting and/or responding to requests to participate in
the programs that the District is offering. The observation that the 2013 plan is heavily
dependent upon intergovernmental cooperation and stresses personal responsibility is on the
mark.
Page 14
Derek Asche
December 11, 2012
Page 3
7. The MCWD is involved in research studies on AIS, but the proposed plan for additional
activities in 2013 does not supplement the ones that were already included in the 2013 budget.
The long-range AIS management plan will address whether and how the MCWD may be
involved in the management of AIS once it is present in a waterbody. The primary goals in
the long-term plan will be (1) to prevent the introduction of AIS, (2) to contain introductions
of AIS (along the lines of rapid response to remove or prevent further spread within a
waterbody), and (3) control (i.e., management) of established populations of AIS.
8. In terms of whether the activities and level of funding in 2014 and later years will be
compared to the added activitiesin 2013; it is unknown what direction they will tale. The
concern cited by Plymouth about rapid growth in this program has been voiced by others, and
is taken seriously by the MCWD. Whether the program will continue, and at what level, will
be decided by the Board of Managers in terms of what is in the AIS management plan it
approves, and what it considers necessary to fund it in subsequent years combined with its
concern with any potential increase in property taxes — for example, the 2013 tax levy will be
the same that it has been for the prior three years.
I hope that this discussion is sufficiently responsive to the issues raised in your November 26,
2012, letter. Please feel free to contact me if you have further questions. I can be reached at
952.471.8306 (direct) or cdawson&minnehahacreek.org.
Sincerely,
evasive Species (AIS) Program
Page 15
7.
boat laudches with over,4Q 0i Q launches per year (Kelly, 2010} The proposal rnd[Gates
the greatest inspection coverage to asst $47,000 per site (7 days/week, Tarn -qpm, April
13 -ado' ber 20) totating $470,0010 far lila 1E3+ public launchesonLake Nflnnetonka.
Please clarify which public accesses on Lake Minnetonka and other lakes the MCWD
Propose to include in the Watercraft Operator Education & Inspection Program, to what
level (A -D) each site be inspected, and how the lack of complete coverage will be
addressed. Please also clarify/explain the roles of any partnerships anticipated with the
3400 Plymouth Blvd • Plymouth, Minnesota 55447-1482 • Tel: 763-509-500D + www plymouthrnmov
Page 16
DNR, municipalities, or others within the proposed Watercraft Operator Education &
Inspection Program.
4. Other than education, the proposal does not seem to address shoreline access of any of
the 100+ lakes within the MCWD. What measures other than education, if any, are
anticipated to address this issue?
5. Other than education, the proposal does not seem to address fishing piers or platforms.
There are at least seven on Lake Minnetonka alone. What measures other than
education, If any, are anticipated to address this issue?
5. The program appears heavily dependant upon cooperation of other agencies including
the ON and municipalities as well as the "concept of personal responsibility", however,
there is no indicat on` n the proposal that the MCWD has secure 6ther funding sources
or partnerships. Please exMail' the role of the MCWD in securing additional funding
sources or partnerships with other agencies, including municipalities:
7. The program goes ryo# consider funding for research on either preyenting the spread of
AI$ or management of AIS once present in a waterbody. Does the MCWD intend to
manage AIS once present In a waterbody?
8. The proposal indicates a $330,000 expenditure in 2013. Does the MCWD anticipate the
same amount, less or additional funding in 2014 and beyond?There is concern the
current proposal will grow rapidly in subsequent years.
If you have any.questions please feel free to contact me directly at 763-509-5526 or via e-mail
m
at dascheOplyouthmn.eov. Responses can be sent to my attention at Plymouth City Hail,
3400 Plymouth Slid., Plymouth, MN, 55447.
Sincerely,
Derek Asche
Water Resources Manager
Citation: Kelly, . (2010). Boat launches through public accesses on. Lake Minnetonka from
midAprif to mid-November, 2010, Cooperative effort of the Lake Minnetonka
Conservation District and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. -
Page 17
('2P City of
Plymouth
Adding Quality to Life
December 21, 2012
SUBJECT: REQUEST FOR CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO EXCEED 50 -PERCENT
OFFICE USE IN THE I-2, GENERAL INDUSTRIAL ZONING DISTRICT
(2012100)
Dear Property Owner:
Pursuant to the provisions of the Plymouth Zoning Ordinance, this letter is to inform you of a
development application submitted by Mohagen Hansen Architectural Group, under file no.
2012100, requesting approval of a conditional use permit to exceed 50 -percent office use in the
I-2, general industrial zoning district for property located at 13005 16`h Avenue North. No
exterior site changes are proposed with this application. A map showing the location of the
subject property is provided below.
Hennepin County records indicate your property is located within 500 feet of the site of this
proposal. You are hereby notified of, and cordially invited to attend a public hearing to be held
by the Plymouth Planning Commission at 7:00 p.m., on Wednesday, January 2, 2013, in the
Council Chambers at Plymouth City Hall, 3400 Plymouth Boulevard. The public will be invited
to offer questions and comments concerning this application at that time, or feel free to call the
city planning department at (763) 509-5450 for more information. You may also submit
comments in writing. All written comments will become part of the public record.
INFORMATION relating to this
request may be examined at the
community development information
counter (lower level of City Hall), on
Mondays and Wednesday through
Friday from 8:00 a.m, to 4:30 p.m., and
Tuesdays from 3:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.,
except holidays.
Sincerely,
Barbara G. Thomson, AICP
Planning Manager
PManning AppliMLL—TC Hnll—UP12U012100 pmpnmice.d-
3400 Plymouth Blvd • Plymouth, Minnesota 55447-1482 • Tel: 763-509-5000 • www.ptymouthmn.gov
.�j-.!;" -0- ot
Page 18
MarketCommentary
December 18, 2012
Merry Fiscal Cliff?
This time of year thoughts normally shift to tidings of good cheer and good will towards all.
The holiday season this year seems to be sidetracked a bit with all of the commentary about the
fiscal cliff. Perhaps the ball drop in Times Square will feature an exploding dollar sign this
year?
Threat to Tax -Exempt Status for Municipal Bonds
One of the proposals being discussed during fiscal cliff negotiations is eliminating the tax -
exemption of interest for all newly -issued municipal securities, or even capping the benefit of
tax-exempt interest income for higher -income earners. Some have argued the municipal bond
tax exemption amounts to bi-partisan "low -hanging fruit", with estimates that eliminating the
tax exemption could generate $124.4 billion in revenue for the U.S. Treasury over the next 10
years. Part of the political appeal to eliminating tax-exempt bonds is the common belief that it
only benefits wealthy individuals who purchase the securities.
Proponents of maintaining the tax exemption for municipal bonds argue states, local
governments and agencies, and non-profit organizations use these bonds to finance essential
services and infrastructure. Forcing these entities to issue taxable debt for these projects drives
the cost of borrowing up and will make it harder for communities to keep up with capital
demands.
When the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) was introduced in 2009, the
amount of taxable municipal bonds in the market increased significantly. Several financing
programs were introduced that provided direct interest subsidies from the Federal government
to issuers of taxable debt rather than the implied subsidy via the tax -exemption of interest for
the investor. The most common program under the ARRA was the Build America Bond (BAB)
program, which offered a 35% interest rebate directly to issuers. One of the lasting effects of
these programs is continued investor demand for taxable municipal securities.
Despite increased issuance of taxable bonds, and generally lower spreads for taxable bonds over
tax -exempts the past few years, the tax exemption for municipal bonds still produces lower net
borrowing costs for issuers. What is the spread between yields for tax-exempt and taxable debt?
The chart below illustrates the spread between yields for AAA bonds based on Thomson
Reuters' Municipal Market Data AAA scale for December 14, 2012.
www.ehlers-inc.corn
EHLERS
LEADERS IN PUBLIC FINANCE
EHLERS
INVESTMENT PARTNERS
BOND TRUST SEPWICES
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MarketCommentary
Tax -Exempt vs Taxable Municipal Bond Yields
MMD for December 14, 2012
Source:
* Thomson Reuters Municipal Market Data
Using a $5 million G.O. Bond with a term of 20 years and level payments as an example, the
interest cost is approximately $532,000 more with taxable vs. tax-exempt yields. The interest
cost is higher for those issuers who are unable to benefit from "bank qualified" status. For
issuers who issue less than $10 million in tax-exempt debt in a calendar year and are therefore
able to designate their bonds as "bank qualified," the additional cost due to loss of tax
exemption would be higher.
Many local government professional associations, such as the Government Finance Officers
Association (GFOA), are encouraging their members to contact their congressional
representatives to urge support for maintaining the tax-exempt status of municipal securities.
The American Public Power Association urged its members to speak out as well, and several
Wisconsin communities passed a Resolution indicating their support (see attached).
As of this writing, there has been no definitive action taken to eliminate or cap the benefit of the
tax exemption for municipal securities. We will keep you apprised of any additional
developments in future Market Commentaries.
Other Economic News
The Federal Reserve's Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) announced revised plans to
continue its third round of quantitative easing into January, 2013. While the plan was for the
Fed to end direct purchases of U.S. Treasuries at the end of the calendar year, the FOMC said it
plans to continue buying $40 billion a month of mortgage-backed securities (previously
announced), while making outright Treasury purchases of $45 billion a month to coincide with
the end of Operation Twist on December 31 of this year (newly announced). Unlike previous
endeavors, the Fed did not announce an upward bound on its aggregate purchasers, nor a time
E H LE RS E H LE RSC U H ' tl H A Y { ll h BOND TRUST SERVICES
I
LEADERS IN PUBLIC FINANCE 0 INVESTMENT PARTNERS
800.552.1171 800.717.9742 8662k3
Ehlers hnc, Ehlers Investment Partners and Band Trust Services are subsidiaries of Ehlers HoKng Company
Tax -Exempt
Taxable
Difference
AAA Yields*
5 Years
0.73%
0.94%
0.21%
10 Years
1.66%
2.26%
0.60%
20 Years
2.30%
3.57%
1.27%
30 Years
2.71%
3.67%
0.96%
Source:
* Thomson Reuters Municipal Market Data
Using a $5 million G.O. Bond with a term of 20 years and level payments as an example, the
interest cost is approximately $532,000 more with taxable vs. tax-exempt yields. The interest
cost is higher for those issuers who are unable to benefit from "bank qualified" status. For
issuers who issue less than $10 million in tax-exempt debt in a calendar year and are therefore
able to designate their bonds as "bank qualified," the additional cost due to loss of tax
exemption would be higher.
Many local government professional associations, such as the Government Finance Officers
Association (GFOA), are encouraging their members to contact their congressional
representatives to urge support for maintaining the tax-exempt status of municipal securities.
The American Public Power Association urged its members to speak out as well, and several
Wisconsin communities passed a Resolution indicating their support (see attached).
As of this writing, there has been no definitive action taken to eliminate or cap the benefit of the
tax exemption for municipal securities. We will keep you apprised of any additional
developments in future Market Commentaries.
Other Economic News
The Federal Reserve's Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) announced revised plans to
continue its third round of quantitative easing into January, 2013. While the plan was for the
Fed to end direct purchases of U.S. Treasuries at the end of the calendar year, the FOMC said it
plans to continue buying $40 billion a month of mortgage-backed securities (previously
announced), while making outright Treasury purchases of $45 billion a month to coincide with
the end of Operation Twist on December 31 of this year (newly announced). Unlike previous
endeavors, the Fed did not announce an upward bound on its aggregate purchasers, nor a time
E H LE RS E H LE RSC U H ' tl H A Y { ll h BOND TRUST SERVICES
I
LEADERS IN PUBLIC FINANCE 0 INVESTMENT PARTNERS
800.552.1171 800.717.9742 8662k3
Ehlers hnc, Ehlers Investment Partners and Band Trust Services are subsidiaries of Ehlers HoKng Company
MarketCommentary
certain that those purchases will cease. The FOMC plans to keep the Fed Funds rate between
0.00% and 0.25% as long as the unemployment rate remains above 6.0% to 6.5%, with an
inflation target of 2.50%. Most economists have observed the Fed has placed greater
importance on unemployment ahead of its mandate on controlling inflation.
Municipal bond yields have increased from record low levels, as supply in the market has
increased the past two weeks. Demand for municipal bonds could remain strong, especially
with unknown tax implications for next year. Unanswered questions regarding dividends and
capital gains could continue to drive demand for municipal bonds upward. Muni bond mutual
funds have recorded their 63rd week of positive flows in the past 67 weeks.
Trends in Municipal Bond Yields
November 30 to December 14, 2012
Source:
* Thomson Reuters Municipal Market Data
** The Bond Buyer. Average yield on a portfolio of municipal bonds
maturing in 20 years, with an average rating of AA/Aa2.
Macro Outlook for the Year Ahead
This time of year, prognosticators offer predictions on the year ahead. Moody's Investors
Service offered these comments regarding its U.S. Macro Outlook for 2013:
• Fiscal headwinds will prevail in the first half of 2013, but the U.S. economy will
pick up in the second half
• The biggest threat to the outlook would be a failure by Washington to settle key
tax and budget issues.
• Lawmakers are likely to scale back the fiscal cliff and agree on a comprehensive
budget plan in January.
• Fiscal policy will continue to dragon U.S. growth next year but at about the same
level as in 2012.
r
E H LE RS E H LE RSC U H ' tl H A Y { ll h BOND TRUST SERVICES
I
LEADERS IN PUBLIC FINANCE INVESTMENT PARTNERS
800.552.1171 800.717.9742 86623
Ehlers hnc, Ehlers Investment Partners and Band Trust Services are subsidiaries of Ehlers HoKng Company
November 30, 2012
December 14, 2012
Change
AAA Yields*
5 Years
0.64%
0.73%
0.09%
10 Years
1.47%
1.66%
0.19%
20 Years
2.10%
2.30%
0.20%
30 Years
2.47%
2.71%
0.24%
Bond Buyer 20 Bond Index**
3.29%
3.44%
0.15%
Source:
* Thomson Reuters Municipal Market Data
** The Bond Buyer. Average yield on a portfolio of municipal bonds
maturing in 20 years, with an average rating of AA/Aa2.
Macro Outlook for the Year Ahead
This time of year, prognosticators offer predictions on the year ahead. Moody's Investors
Service offered these comments regarding its U.S. Macro Outlook for 2013:
• Fiscal headwinds will prevail in the first half of 2013, but the U.S. economy will
pick up in the second half
• The biggest threat to the outlook would be a failure by Washington to settle key
tax and budget issues.
• Lawmakers are likely to scale back the fiscal cliff and agree on a comprehensive
budget plan in January.
• Fiscal policy will continue to dragon U.S. growth next year but at about the same
level as in 2012.
r
E H LE RS E H LE RSC U H ' tl H A Y { ll h BOND TRUST SERVICES
I
LEADERS IN PUBLIC FINANCE INVESTMENT PARTNERS
800.552.1171 800.717.9742 86623
Ehlers hnc, Ehlers Investment Partners and Band Trust Services are subsidiaries of Ehlers HoKng Company
MarketCommentary
• The private sector is poised for much stronger growth once clarity returns to
federal policy.
This provides more evidence that the fiscal cliff negotiations will certainly set the tone for the
economy early next year.
This is the final Ehlers Market Commentary for 2012. We look forward to sharing our insights
with you in our bi-weekly commentary next year. Happy New Year from everyone at Ehlers!
EHLERS
LEADERS IN PUBLIC FINANCE
EHLERS
INVESTMENT PARTNERS
BOND TRUST SEPWICES
//// C U H I' , H A Y EON
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Ehlers hnc, Ehlers Investment Partners and Band Trust Services are subsidiaries of Ehlers HoUng Company
A RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF THE PRESERVATION OF
TAX-EXEMPT FINANCING
WHEREAS, municipal bonds are the means by which state and local governments finance the
critical infrastructure of our nation, including roads, bridges, hospitals, schools, and utility
systems; and
WHEREAS, under current law the owners of municipal bonds are not required to pay federal
income tax on the interest income they receive from the bonds; and
WHEREAS, this tax exemption is part of a more than century -long system of reciprocal
immunity under which owners of federal bonds are, in turn, not required to pay state and local
income tax on the interest they receive from federal bonds; and
WHEREAS, this federal tax exemption provides a significant difference between public sector
and private sector debt financing; and
WHEREAS, municipalities benefit from this tax exemption through substantial savings on the
interest cost of borrowed money; and
WHEREAS, the benefit of lower capital costs attributable to tax exempt financing are passed on
to property taxpayers through reduced rates, greater local investments, or both; and
WHEREAS, from time to time Congress and the President have proposed legislation to tax — or
alter the federal tax exemption of — interest on municipal bonds; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the [insert name of municipality, county and
state] opposes any efforts by Congress and this, or any future, President to eliminate or limit the
federal tax exemption on interest earned from municipal bonds.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution shall be sent to our Congressional
Representatives and key members of the Administration.
Passed and adopted this [insert date].
Page 23
O -N
Competitive Sale Results December 17 -December 28, 2012
Sale Date Issuer
St
Par Amt
(in
millions)
Issue
Underlying Rating
Credit
Enhanced
Rating
BO
TIC I
NIC
Maturities
B of
Bidders
Winning Bidder
MN
17.32
Taxable GO Abatement Bonds
AA,
N
2.56%
2013-31
3
Raymond James
12/04/12 Northfield, City
MN
12/03/12 Des Plaines, City
IL
3.77
General Obligation Refunding Bonds
Aa2
2014-22
Y
1.27%
2013-20
4
Stifei Nicolaus
12/03/12 Deerfield, Village
IL
9.08
General Obligation Bonds
Aaa
3
Y
1.82%
2013-31
5
Piper Jaffray
12/03/12 Palatine, Villa a
IL
5.03
Taxable GO Refunding Bonds
AA+
Bankers' Bank
N
1.82%
2013-22
5
Raymond James
12/03/12 South Holland, Village
IL
9.95
GO Refunding Bonds
Aa3
12/04/12 Beloit School District
Y
2.15%
2013-25
2
Baird
12/03/12 Parsons, City
KS
2.50
GO Bonds
A
Y
1.73% 1
2014-28
6
FTN Financial Capital Markets
12/03/12 Finney Co. Rural Water Dist. No. 1
KS
0.99
Water Utility System Revenue Bonds
NR
Y
1.19%
2014-19
3
First Bankers' Banc
12/03/12 IFinney Co. Rural Water Dist. No. 1
KS
0.36
Taxable Water Utility System Revenue Bonds
NR
N
1.07%
2013-14
2
First Bankers' Banc
12/03/12 Brainerd, City
MN
0.85
GO Imrpovement Bonds
AA-
Y
1.34%
2014-23
3
United Bankers Bank
12/03/12 Buffalo, City
MN
1.34
GO Bonds
AA-
Y
1.34%
2015-24
3
BOSC
12/03/12 Little Falls, City
MN
2.60
GO Advance Refunding Bonds
A+
Y
1.56%
2014-27
3
United Bankers Bank
12/03/12 Maple Grove, City
MN
5.96
Taxable GO Capital Improvement Bonds
AAA
N
1.37%
2017-20
5
Baird
12/03/12 Maple Grove, City
MN
27.91
GO Imrpovement Refunding Bonds
AAA
N
1.84%
2018-27
10
Piper Jaffray
12/03/12 South St. Paul, City
MN
5.53
GO Bonds
Aa2
Y
1.56%
2014-30
5
Baird
12/03/12 West St. Paul, City
MN
3.80
GO Im rovement and Refunding Bonds
AA
Y
1.10%
2014-23
7
United Bankers Bank
12/03/12 Milwaukee County
W1
23.11
GO Refunding Bonds
Aa2 / AA / AA+
N
1.00%
2014-20
11
Baird
12/04/12 Olathe, City
KS
9.59
Water and Sewer S stem Revenue Bonds
Aa2/AA
N
2.28%
2013-32
4
Baird
12/04/12 Andover, City
MN
17.32
Taxable GO Abatement Bonds
AA,
N
2.56%
2013-31
3
Raymond James
12/04/12 Northfield, City
MN
1.64
GO Bonds
AA
Y
0.95%
2014-22
5
Baird
12/04/12 Thief River Falls, City
MN
1.27
GO Bonds
Al
Y
1.83%
2014-28
3
United Bankers Bank
12/04/12 Superior, City
WI
1.24
Taxable GO PromissoryNotes
AA
N
1.58%
2013-21
6
Bankers' Bank
12/04/12 Marinette, City
WI
2.29
Taxable GO Community Development Bonds
Al
N
2.29%
2014-27
5
Bankers' Bank
12/04/12 Beloit School District
W1
57.79
GO School Im rovement Bonds
Aa3
N
2.131%
2013-32
2
BA Merrill Lynch
12/05/12 McHenry Community High School Dist. No. 156 IL 9.38 GO Refunding Bonds Aa2 Y 1.25% 2016-18 2 Baird
12/05/12 Tinley Park Park District IL 5.62 G Limited Tax Park Bonds Aa2 Y 1.36% 2015-20 4 Raymond James
12/05/12 ISaint Paul, CityMN 7.58 GO Capital Notes Aa1 / AAA N 1.27% 2013-22 5 Baird
12/05/12 Stacy, City MN 2.18 GO Imrpovement Refunding Bonds A+ Y 2.04% 1 2014-33 1 4 United Bankers Bank
12/06/12 Golf School District No. 67 IL 7.85 GO School Building Bonds Al Y 2.61 % 2013-27 2 Baird
12/06/12 Kansas Department of Transportation KS 200.00 Highway Revenue Bonds AaI / AAA / AA, N 2.115 % 2015-32 6 BA Merrill Lynch
40 EHLERS
LEADERS IN PUBLIC FINANCE
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Offices in Minnesota: (800) 552-1171
Wisconsin: (800)717-9742
Illinois: (800) 417-1119
Page 24
-us
Competitive Sale Results December 17 -December 28, 2012
Par Amt Credit
(in Enhanced TIC 1 B of
Sale Date Issuer St millions) Issue Underlying Rating Rating BO NIC Maturities Bidders Winning Bidder
12/10/12 Rock Island, City
IL
3.89
GO Bonds
Aa2
Y2.22%
2.69%
2013-32
5
Raymond James
12/10/12 Township High School District No. 211 (Cook County)
IL
5.86
GO Limited School Bonds
Aa1
Y
0.64 %
2014-16
7
Fifth Third Securities
12/10/12 OlympiaFields, Village
IL
1.67
GO Bonds Alt. Revenue Source
AAA
Y
2.70%2014-32
2013-17
3
BOSC
12/10/12 Olympia Fields, Village
IL
2.10
GO Bonds (Alt. Revenue Source)
AAA
Y
2.961
2014-38
3
Bernardi
12/10/12 Fairway, Ci
KS
2.67
GO Refunding Bonds
AA
Y
1.10%
2013-22
4
Baird
12/10/12 Kinsley-Offerle Unified SD No. 347 Edwards County
KS
5.90
GO Bonds
AA-
Y
2.25%
2014-33
3
Raymond James
12/10/12 Blackduck, City
MN
1.17
GO Bonds
NR
Y
2.70%
2014-35
1
Baird
12/10/12 North Branch, City
MN
5.93
IGO Improvement Refunding Bonds
Al
Y
1.24%
2015-25
4
United Bankers Bank
12/10/12 Ramsey County
MN
3.16
GO State Aid Street Refunding Bos
Aaa/AAA
N
1.97%
2014-28
2
Baird
12/10/12 Ramsey Count
MN
13.19
GO Capital Im rovemam Plan Rndefundin Bonds
Aaa/AAA
N
1.31%
2014-23
9
BMO Capital Markets
12/10/12 Edgerton School District
W I
6.30
GO School Building Bonds
Aa3
Y
1.78%
2013-27
3
BOSC
12/10/12 Lake Mills Area School District
W I
9.30
GO School Improvement Bonds
AA
Y
2.41 %
2027-32
6
Slifer Nicolaus
12/10/12 Port Washington -Saukville Area School District
WI
1.80
GO PromissoryNotes
AA
Y
1.57%
2013-22
4
UMB Bank
12/10/12 Port Washington -Saukville Area School District
WI
1.89
Taxable GO Refunding Bonds
AA
N
2.10%
2013-25
6
Bankers' Bank
12/10/12 Maple School District
W I
2.26
GO Refunding Bonds
Al
Y
1.04%
2014-20
3
Bankers' Bank
12/11/12 Aurora, Ci
IL
2.79
Golf Course Revenue Refunding Bonds
A+
N
2.69%
2013-19
2
Bernardi
12/11/12 Moraine Valle Communi Colle a Dist. No. 524
IL
28.29
GO Bonds Alt Revenue Source)
Aaa
N
3.39%
2015-42
5
Stifel Nicolaus
72/11/12 Butler Count Rural Water District No. 6
KS
0.59
Water Utility System Revenue Bonds
NR
Y
1.08 %
2013-17
4
Cooper Malone
12/11/12 Emily, City
MN
1.50
GO Sewer Revenue Refunding Bonds
A+
Y
2.77%
2014-36
1
Baird
12/11/12 St. Anthony, City
MN
1.44
GO Water and Sewer Revenue Ref. Bonds
AA
Y
1.51%
2014-24
3
Raymond James
12/11/12 Columbia Heights Inde endent School District No. 13
MN
18.85
GO School Building Refunding Bonds
Al
Y N
1.71%
2014-23
6
PNC Capital Markets
12/11/12 Clintonville, Cit
W I
2.35
Electric System Revenue Bonds
NR
Y
1.56%
2013-22
5
BOSC
12/11/12 Madison Community Development Authority
WI
5.66
Lease Revenue Refunding Bonds
Aa2
N
1.52%
2014-20
2
Piper Jaffray
12/11/12 Marathon County
WI
2.65
GO Airport Bonds (AMT)
Aa1
N
2.74%
2017-28
2
Baird
12/11/12 Outagamie County
WI
1.08
GO Promissory Notes
Aaa
N
0.93%
2013-17
1
Baird
12/11/12 Outa amie Count
WI
3.24
Tapable GO Air ort Bonds
Aaa
N
2.77%
2013-32
4
Northiand Securities
12/11/12 Outagamie County
WI
10.75
GO Capital Improvement Bonds
Aaa
N
1.83%
2013-32
1
Baird
12/12/12 Gateway Technical College District I WI 1 1.50 IGO Promissory Notes I Aaa I I N 1 2.13% 1 2013-22 1 2 1 Bernardi
12/13/12 Glencoe, Villag I IL 1 8.55 GO Bonds I AAA Y 1.87%2019-27 3 Raymond James
12/13/12 North Oaks, Cii I MN 1 0.56 IGO Improvement Refunding Bonds I NR Y 1.54% 2014-23 2 Vining -Sparks IBG
40 EHLERS
LEADERS IN PUBLIC FINANCE
vAMw.ehlers-inc.com
Offices in Minnesota: (800) 552-1171
Wisconsin: (800)717-9742
Illinois: (800) 417-1119
Page 25
Honeywell keeps innovation close to home
• Article by: DEE DePASS , Star Tribune
• Updated: December 15, 2012 - 9:10 PM
The international headquarters are gone, but the R&D labs in Golden Valley still are
churning out hundreds of products and patents each year.
A seemingly endless run of R&D labs deep inside Honeywell's Golden Valley campus hide a host of
gee -whiz prototypes that hope to one day save American lives, energy and money.
There's the firefighter locator system that can do what a GPS can't: Find fallen rescuers inside of
dense buildings. Another potential gem is a security system that can read the irises of eyes, detect
faces and discreetly ID bad guys from afar.
A third project -- admittedly less James Bond and more John Doe homeowner -- analyzes the
energy used by refrigerators, furnaces and air conditioners and spits out money -saving tips via a
simple Kindle e -reader.
They are just a few of the multimillion -dollar innovations morphing inside Honeywell International's
former headquarters in Minnesota. While Allied Signal bought Honeywell in 1999 and moved its
corporate headquarters to New Jersey, the Minnesota -born energy and aerospace giant keeps
pushing the technological envelope right here in the Twin Cities.
Page 26
"The key for all of this is you see Honeywell spending on R&D, driving innovation and driving it to be
commercialized," said Steven Winoker, an equity research analyst at Sanford C. Bernstein. "This is a
company that starts with customer needs and works backwards to meet those needs."
In a rare move, Honeywell recently invited the Star Tribune to peek inside its R&D labs in Golden
Valley. They are where Honeywell runs its $15.5 billion automation control solutions business (ACS)
and where it whips up 450 new products and patents each year. A good chunk of the corporation's
$1.7 billion R&D funds are spent at its Golden Valley campus, said spokesman Mark Hamel.
The ingenious Glanser
Among the most ingenious innovations to emerge from Golden Valley is a locator that works, in real
time, to find firefighters that may be trapped inside thick buildings.
During the Star Tribune's recent visit, Aravind Padmanabhan, Honeywell's global vice president of
sensors and its wireless lab, donned a 35 -pound firefighter harness holding an air tank, gas monitor
and an odd black box with a triangular cap that jetted to one side.
Honeywell calls the box Glanser. It developed the technology by marrying its inventory warehouse
scanners with the aircraft navigation systems it created for the military.
The Plymouth Fire Department is one of 12 departments testing Glanser. "For us, this would greatly
enhance firefighter safety," said Chief Rick Kline. "We would know where [our guys] are inside the
building. It locates them to within 3 to 5 feet."
In early tests, Plymouth firefighters belted up and crawled around the basement of their Fire Station
No. 2, putting Glanser through its paces. "We were seeing if we could track firefighters from floor to
floor and from room to room," Kline said. "There were successes and failures. But Honeywell would
continue to work on that and refine it."
Months ago, Kline and Fire Capt. Tom Evenson used Honeywell's monitoring software on a laptop
while upstairs in the firehouse. A green circle popped on the screen, indicating a Glanser-wearing
firefighter stumbling around blind in the dark basement training room.
On the laptop, "We could see a green dot moving in every direction," Evenson said. "We could see
when he went [to] the rear door and came back. It's pretty amazing."
During a different test, a firefighter wore the Glanser, entered an unfamiliar office building, feigned
injury, crouched and stopped moving. Kline used the laptop to see where the firefighter was and
used his radio to direct a rescuer right to the fallen firefighter.
"With each test, we got closer and closer and better and better," Kline said.
Honeywell already has made improvements to the device. For starters, it's much smaller than it used
to be.
The first model was a big, bulky backpack. "We laughed about that," Kline said.
A security sweet spot
Page 27
Buried in Honeywell's campus, past more locked doors, lies what could be another potential
blockbuster for the company.
Honeywell Engineering Program Manager Rand Whillock stood beside his "baby," a powerful but
portable tower of infrared flashes and a pivoting camera.
From 15 feet away, Whillock's camera snapped pictures of guests' faces and converted the stripped
images of each iris into digital barcodes.
"If we get a good image of your iris, it's better than a fingerprint," he said. The hope is the combined
eye and face ID system will one day discreetly ID suspects in busy airports, malls or stadiums.
Today, it takes up to 30 seconds to recognize an iris and face with images from government
databases. "We'd like to get it down to 2 seconds," Whillock said.
"That's scary," quipped Winoker of Sanford C. Bernstein. Seriously, he added, "They have a lot of
security operations and this sounds like one more ... It's their sweet spot."
The prototype, a joint effort with U.S. Department of Homeland Security, is nine years in the making
and probably has a few years to go. So far, "it works in a practical setting," Whillock said. If
developed fully, it could be a huge win for Honeywell. But competitors lurk, including 3M, which also
offers facial ID products.
'Amazing' effort to cut energy bills
Honeywell also is targeting the common consumer.
Two years ago, the company won a $1.6 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to
develop a smart technology to help homeowners slash ghastly energy bills.
Early results are "amazing," said DOE project officer Yanna Rasulova in Washington, D.C. "The
typical American family spends $1,900 a year on home energy bills. If technology can improve their
control over energy, that's definitely one thing we want to tackle."
In Elk River, Honeywell's CASHEM energy monitoring system issued tips that snipped $100 from
Jenny and Doug Leaser's September energy bill. The Leasers were one of five local families to test
CASHEM this summer.
Back in the lab, advanced technology researcher Wendy Foslien said she's still finalizing the system.
Using wireless technology, she tracked the power gobbled by a nearby furnace, Bosch refrigerator,
Pentair pool pump, a garage door opener and light. Simple icons appeared on her Kindle and
suggested setting changes. "This [Kindle] works like a universal remote," Foslien said.
Tony Uttley, Honeywell ACS vice president of global strategy and marketing, said the home energy
tracker and other systems under development are just the latest wonder tools to developing
advanced safety, security, home and energy efficiency technology.
He said, "Those four products help drive us."
Dee DePass • 612-673-7725
Page 28
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Page 29
Cowles, Zelle: The ROI on Twin Cities transit investment - TwinCitie... http://www.twincities.comlopinion/ci_22175517/cowles-zelle-roi-twin...
Cowles, Zelle: The ROI on Twin Cities transit investment
By Jay Cowles and Charlie Zelle TwinCidies.com-Pioneer Press
Posted: TwinCities.com
Frustrated by your commute? So are employers -- probably including yours.
The Itasca Project, an alliance of regional leaders led by private -sector CEOs, heard from member
businesses that we need better transit to keep the jobs we have, and attract more new jobs.
As business leaders ourselves, that sounded right, but we and our members wanted to use business tools
to examine our options and determine whether it makes sense to invest. We asked three questions:
1. A built -out regional transit system would require substantial investment. What would be the return on
that investment?
2. Investments can be made more or less quickly. Would accelerating build -out change the return on
investment?
3. Many communities with developing transit systems experience more growth near transit stations.
Would such expectations for growth change the return on investment?
Itasca Project worked with a national consulting firm to forecast the costs and benefits of each
investment scenario. We evaluated travel times and reliability, vehicle operating costs, shipping and
logistics costs, emissions, safety costs and road maintenance costs.
We found that:
1. If our region completed the Metropolitan Council's planned transit system by 2030, requiring an
investment of $4.4 billion in capital, operating and maintenance costs, the return on investment, or
"ROI," would be $6.6 billion to $10.1 billion in benefits between 2030 and 2045.
2. If we accelerated the build -out of the system by seven years, it would cost more -- $5.3 billion -- but
the ROI would increase to between $10.8 billion to $16.5 billion between 2023 and 2045.
3. Absorbing more growth near transit stations would increase net benefits by another $2 billion to $4
billion.
The greatest share of benefits would be welcomed by every commuter -- travel time savings. The study
found that time savings accounts for between $4.6 billion and $11.4 billion in benefits, depending on the
scenario. Building a more complete transportation system would let business and people move more
efficiently. This isn't just true for transit riders. Implementing a regional transit system moves cars off
the road, which enables the remaining drivers to get to their destination more efficiently and reliably.
Employers in Minneapolis, St. Paul and our suburbs are telling us with increased urgency that transit is
a necessary component for their future growth. Transit is an ingredient in a vibrant community. It's not
the only ingredient, but if it is neglected or omitted, the recipe won't work. We need a robust highway
and road system, and it must be complemented with transit.
None of this is a secret to our competitors. Denver attracts more 25- to 34 -year-olds than anywhere else
Page 30
1 of 2 12/12/2012 1:13 PM
Cowles, Zelle: The ROI on Twin Cities transit investment - TwinCitie... http:llWww.twincities.corn/opinion/ci_22175517/cowles-zelle-roi-twin...
in the nation, in part because of the transit investments they've made over the past decade. We -- and
other Minneapolis -St. Paul business leaders -- traveled to Denver this summer to find out how the city is
attracting all this talent and jobs. Denver's business leaders consistently told us; Transit has been key in
attracting new employers and employees.
Our region cannot afford to sit by while competitors build the robust transit systems people want.
Are there hard questions about how to pay for these investments, as high as the return will be?.
Certainly. The transit ROI study helps take emotion out of the equation and boils the discussion down to
the business basics -- does it make sense by the numbers? It is clear that the benefits -- better travel
times and reliability, lower vehicle operating costs, lower shipping and logistics costs, reduced
emissions and lower safety and road pavement costs -- make investment in our region's transit system a
wise choice.
Jay Cowles is president of Unity Avenue Associates. Charlie Zelle is CEO/president of Jefferson Lines.
Together they co-chair the Itasca Project Transportation Task Force. An executive summary of the Itasca
Project's study is available at www.minneapolischamber.org/SWLRT—Itasea—ROI.
Employers in Minneapolis, St. Paul and our suburbs are telling us with increased urgency that transit is
a necessary component far their future growth.
Page 31
2 of 2 12/12/2012 1:13 PM
ITASCAproject
Regional Transit System
Return on. Investment Assessment
November 30, 2012
Page 32
�XE�JTIv'NliliIA:�'
The Itasca Project has a key goal to advance a comprehensive and aligned
transportation system. As a stakeholder in regional discussions around proposals
for transit investment, Itasca's transportation task force sought to understand "what
is the expected economic return on regional transit investments?"
Itasca commissioned Cambridge Systematics to assess the expected return from
the region's proposed transit system. Working with a technical advisory committee
of regional experts, the project team quantified and monetized how the regional
transit build -out would impact travel times, travel time reliability, vehicle operating
cost, safety, emissions, shippers and logistics costs, and road pavement condition.
Itasca's transportation task force posed three questions:
1) A built -out regional transit system would require substantial investment.
What would be the return on that investment?
Answer: Between $6.6 and $10.1 billion in total direct benefits, on a
64.4 billion investment (benefits accrued 2030 — 2045).
2) Investments can be made more or less quickly. Would accelerating the build-
out change the return on investment?
Answer: The total direct benefits would increase to between $10.8 —
16.5 billion, on a $5.3 billion investment (benefits accrued 2023 — 2045).
3) Many communities with developing transit systems experience more growth
near transit stations. Would such expectations for regional growth change
the return on investment?
Answer: More community growth near transit stations would increase net
benefits by another $2 — 4 billion (2030 - 2045).
In addition to quantified and monetized impacts, the analysis quantified but did not
monetize other regional impacts, such as regional accessibility to jobs. The analysis
found that a regional transit system would enable local employers to access an
additional 500,000 employees.
Finally, the project team sought the views of human resources and facilities
executives at regional employers, with respect to the role of a built -out transit
system in accessing and attracting employees.
Together, the results show that investment in a built -out regional transit system
would create substantial value for the region.
Page 33
The Itasca Project is a CEO -led alliance drawn together by an interest in new and
better ways to address regional issues that impact our economic competitiveness
and quality of life. Its 50 -plus participants are primarily private -sector business
leaders, the heads of major Minneapolis/St. Paul -based foundations, and key public
sector leaders.
Itasca's participants understand that our regional transportation system helps
determine regional prosperity and quality of life. One of Itasca project's three
priorities is to "Advance a Comprehensive and Aligned Transportation System". This
vision includes roads and bridges, as well as a connected transit system..
As a stakeholder in regional discussions around proposals for transit investment, the
Itasca Project sought its own understanding of current transportation visions,
including that of a built -out regional transit system. Specifically, Itasca's
transportation task force sought to understand "what is the expected return on such
transit investments?"
The Itasca Project commissioned Cambridge Systematics to assess the proposed
transit system.
KEY QUESTfONS
The Itasca Project transportation task force posed three questions:
1) A built -out regional transit system would require substantial investment.
What would be the return on that investment?
2) Investments can be made more or less quickly. Would accelerating the build-
out change the return on investment?
3) Many communities with developing transit systems experience more growth
near transit stations. Would such expectations for regional growth change
the return on investment?
To answer these questions, Cambridge Systematics, with support from an advisory
committee of regional experts, modeled the costs and benefits of three future
regional transit scenarios and compared them with a base case scenario that
incorporates only existing and committed transit investments (including Central
Corridor):
• Scenario 9; 2030 Regional Plan. This scenario assumes the Metropolitan
Council 2030 plan is executed and that the region -wide transit investment
includes the addition of three LRTs, two BRT extensions, two new BRTs,
and nine arterial BRTs.
Page 34
• Scenario 2: Accelerate' Regional Plan. This scenario assumes the same
build -out as Scenario 1, completed seven years earlier in 2023.
Scenario 3: 2030 Plan with Growth Near Stations. This scenario assumes
the same build -out and timing as in Scenario 1, but focuses more of the
expected regional growth near stations. This scenario does not suppose
accelerated or additional growth for the region but simply reallocates 25% of
projected development and community growth in served communities to be
nearer to station areas.
The analysis looked at the costs and benefits of a regional transit system from its
completion date through 2045. Scenarios one and three assesses the costs and
benefits from the system completion date of 2030 through 2045. Scenario two
proposes the system is complete by 2023 and, hence, assesses costs and benefits
from 2023 through 2045.
In addition to the technical analysis, the project also conducted qualitative research
to understand the perspective of regional businesses and assessed impacts of
transit build -outs in other regions.
SUMMARY OF DIRECT IMPACTS
A built -out transit system brings enhanced mobility to the region, which has benefits
for both highway and transit users. For this analysis, we considered six types of
direct impacts:
• Vehicle operating costs
• Travel times and reliability
• Shippers and logistics costs
• Emissions
• Safety costs
• Road pavement conditions
Figure 1 compares the quantified direct impacts with the cost of the regional transit
system build -out. Mote that the analysis considered net benefits. To the extent any
of these factors were negatively impacted by the transit system bui[d-out (e.g.,
increase in travel times), that was accounted for. Both capital costs and operating
and maintenance costs are included.
The analysis finds that expected direct benefits range from $6.6 billion up to
$13,9 billion.
Page 35
Figure 1: Benefits and costs of the regional transit system from completion of build-
out to 2045, compared to base case (2010$ Millions)
Source: uamonage aystemaucs analysis based on MetGouncff TDM output
As shown in Figure 1, the benefits and costs were also used to calculate an internal
rate of return (IRR)': between 7.8% and 20.9% for the project.
The range of direct user impacts by category are:
• Travel time savings: $4.6 to $11.4 billion
• Vehicle operating cost savings: $1.5 to $4.7 billion
Shipper and logistics cost savings: $185 to $270 million
• Reduction in emissions: $185 to $395 million
• Safety benefits: $53 to $88 million
• Pavement maintenance savings: $26 to $54 million
Because the analysis period is relatively short (only 15 years for the base build -out
and focused growth scenarios, when the system will likely provide benefits beyond)
and because of the conservative assumptions regarding future land use changes
and energy costs in the travel demand model, the resulting benefits represent a
conservative estimate of the potential impact.
1 Internal Rate of Return (IRR) is the discount rate often used in capital budgeting that makes the net
present value of all cash flows from a particular project equal to zero.
Page 36
Compared to Base Case Scenario
Investment
Total direct impacts
IRR
Scenario
cost
Low
High
1: 2030 Regional Plan
$4,361
$6,571
$10,083
7.8-14.8%
(Benefits/costs accrue 2030-2045)
2: Accelerated Regional Plan
$5,289
$10,762
$16,516
11.2-18.0%
(Benefits/casts accrue 2023-2045)
3: 2030 plan with more growth
$4,361
$9,082
$13,927
13.0-20.9%
near stations
(Benefits/costs accrue 2030-2045)
Source: uamonage aystemaucs analysis based on MetGouncff TDM output
As shown in Figure 1, the benefits and costs were also used to calculate an internal
rate of return (IRR)': between 7.8% and 20.9% for the project.
The range of direct user impacts by category are:
• Travel time savings: $4.6 to $11.4 billion
• Vehicle operating cost savings: $1.5 to $4.7 billion
Shipper and logistics cost savings: $185 to $270 million
• Reduction in emissions: $185 to $395 million
• Safety benefits: $53 to $88 million
• Pavement maintenance savings: $26 to $54 million
Because the analysis period is relatively short (only 15 years for the base build -out
and focused growth scenarios, when the system will likely provide benefits beyond)
and because of the conservative assumptions regarding future land use changes
and energy costs in the travel demand model, the resulting benefits represent a
conservative estimate of the potential impact.
1 Internal Rate of Return (IRR) is the discount rate often used in capital budgeting that makes the net
present value of all cash flows from a particular project equal to zero.
Page 36
SUMMARY OF WIDER ECONOMIC IMPACTS
In addition to the direct benefits assessed, the project considered a select number of
wider economic impacts that research suggests will accrue as a result of transit
investments.
Impact on access to labor shed
The regional travel model shows that transit improvements are expected to
decrease average travel times on the transportation network. This increases work
opportunities available to residents and the labor shed available to employers. The
analysis indicates that, compared to base no -build scenario, an additional 500,000
working -age residents will be accessible within a 30 minute trip time under the 2030
plan and up to 520,000 working age residents under the 2030 plan with more growth
near stations. As shown in Figure 2, this represents a 22 — 25% increase.
Figure 2: Change in regional labor shed due to transit build -out (assumes build -out
of 2030 regional plan)
Working -age population accessible to employers within 30 minute
commute (Millions)
In year 2030
2.2
Base Case With transit
build -cwt
Construction impacts
In year 2045
+22% ,
2.8
Base Case With transit
build -out
In addition to the long-term economic benefits, the construction activity associated
with the 2030 transit build -out scenario is projected to support more than 30,000 full-
time equivalent jobs and $4.3 billion in Gross Regional Product over the course of
the construction period.
Page 37
Induced economic development
The direct user benefits associated with a regional transit build -out are expected to
drive long-term economic impacts in terms of business attraction and retention,
leading to economic and employment expansion. The analysis relied on the
economic modeling tool TREDIS to assess potential economic value creation.
Transit investment is expected to support an additional 3,500 to 8,495 jobs by 2045.
Transit investments and resulting transportation efficiencies will lead to an additional
expansion of the regional economy up to $1.4 billion.
BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE
In addition to the quantitative analysis, qualitative research was conducted with
leaders from several of the region's leading companies to assess their viewpoints on
the benefits of a regional transit system, The project team spoke with Human
Resources and Facilities leaders from companies including Target, UnitedHealth,
US Bancorp, DLR Group, Kcel Energy, and Plymouth/Center National Bank.
Key themes and representative quotes from these discussions are highlighted
below.
Transit helps access and attract employees.
• "Improved transit provides greater efficiency to attract employees, enables
them to connect with labor groups."
• "Transit comes up in every HR conversation with new employees."
• "60% of our downtown employees have a Metropass. We want to support
that."
• "Our younger workers show a higher level of interest in transit."
• "Transit is important to attracting workers. Without it, working downtown
would be very difficult."
• "We have a company priority to be green and socially -responsible.
Supporting transit is important. We find that it gets a very positive reaction
within our younger employees."
• "We worry about future commuting costs, as gas could be significantly more
expensive."
Transit enables higher density development and greater customer access.
• "Improved transit would allow higher densities and greater customer access."
• "Higher densities encourage entrepreneurial activities."
Page 38
Transit must be connected to and aligned with destinations and other modes
of transit.
• "Pedestrian access is important to support transit, complete last mile
connections."
• "Want to see more suburb -to -suburb connections."
• "I appreciates the LRT connection to the airport but there are limited door-to-
door mass transit options"
4 "Must be reliable."
CONCLUSION
This analysis provides the business community and partners information it
requested to understand the benefits of a regional transit system. The study
answered three key questions:
1) A built -out regional transit system would require substantial investment.
What would be the return on that investment?
Answer: Between $6.6 and $10.1 billion in total direct benefits, on a
$4.4 billion investment (benefits accrued 2030 — 2045).
2) Investments can be made more or less quickly. Would accelerating the build-
out change the return on investment?
Answer: The total direct benefits would increase to between $10.8 — 16.5
billion, on a $5.3 billion investment (benefits accrued 2023 — 2045).
3) Many communities with developing transit systems experience more growth
near transit stations. Would such expectations for regional growth change
the return on investment?
Answer: More community growth near transit stations would increase net
benefits by another $2 — 4 billion (2030 - 2045).
These results support advancing transit investments (including LRT, BRT, and
arterial bus) in the Minneapolis Saint Paul Metro area. There are of course many
other questions that will be considered as the region assesses how to advance its
transit investment, including funding sources.
Page 39
-�3 JIJT HiS R4 Jim
Methodology
The Return on Investment (ROI) evaluation quantifies and monetizes the future
impacts arising from building a regional transportation system.
To estimate the transportation benefits associated with the transit build -out, the
study utilizes output from Metropolitan Council's regional travel demand model. The
study team interpolates the 2030 and 2045 travel data provided by the Metropolitan
Council to estimate annual travel data, which forms the basis for the 15 -year impact
analysis, from 2030 to 2045 (2023 — 2045 for accelerated scenario).
To estimate economic impact, the team used the TREDIS model which is an
economic model developed specifically to evaluate the impact of multimodal
transportation investments. The model is customized for the Twin Cities region and
it evaluates the impact of investments across modes and users, including
passengers and freight. More information on the TREDIS model is available at
www.tredis.com.
Key assumptions
The Technical Advisory Group worked with Cambridge Systematics to define key
input assumptions for the model, which are highlighted here.
All findings will be reported in 2010 dollars.
A discount rate of 2.8 percent is employed for this analysis as recommended by
MnDOT.
For the regional assessment, ail corridors are assumed to be operational in 2030
and the impacts from 2030-2045 are estimated and reported. For the accelerated
assessment, all corridors are assumed to be operational in 2023 and the impacts
from 2023-2045 are estimated and reported.
The focused growth scenario assumes that 25 percent of all projected development
in the transitway-served communities occurs within a 113 of a mile of new and
existing transit station areas. The reallocation of growth assumes that communities
anticipating a transitway have focused growth in station areas to some degree as
part of their regular long-range and land use planning processes. This assumption is
made within the travel demand model, thus allowing the changing development
patterns to impact ridership and travel behaviors. Induced development above and
beyond baseline projections arising from improved mobility is captured in the
analysis of wider economic benefits.
The price of fuel used in the travel demand and mode choice models is $3.41 per
gallon ($2.59 in 2000$ based on the CPI) to reflect the average cost of fuel in the
region on October 26, 2011. Gas prices are an important input to the model
Page 40
because they are a major driver of transit ridership, which impacts other benefits.
When possible, sensitivity analysis was conducted.
Value of travel time varies by trip purpose and it is equivalent to the opportunity cost
travelers' time for non -work trips and commute trips and to the out-of-pocket costs
for work or business trips. Generally, value of travel time is a function of travel time,
trip purpose and wage rate. For commute, the study team utilized 50 percent of
travel time saved for analysis in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation
recommendation. Also, non -work related trips (including leisure) will be used to
estimate efficiency benefits but not as input into the economic impact analysis since
they do not represent out-of-pocket cost,
Page 41
ABOUT THE I T ASCA PROJECT
The Itasca Project is an employer -led affiance drawn together by an interest in new
and better ways to address regional issues that impact our future economic
competitiveness and quality of life in the Twin Cities area. Its 50 -plus participants
are primarily private -sector CEOs, public -sector leaders, and the leaders of major
Minneapolis/St. Paul -based foundations.
Leadership
_ Mary Brainerd, President and CEO, HealthPartners
Richard Davis, Chairman, President and CEO,
US Bancorp
_. Allison Barmann, McKinsey & Co.
Transportation task force leadership
Jay Cowles, President, Unity Avenue Associates
v- Charlie Zelle, CEO, Jefferson Lines
ABOUT CAMBRIDGE SYSTEMATICS
Cambridge Systematics (CS) is a national transportation planning consulting firm
with 40 years of experience providing regional, state, and federal transportation
planning and policy services. CS offers demonstrated expertise in regional
transportation planning, transit planning, air quality analysis, travel demand
forecasting, economic analysis, and state and Federal transportation policy. We
develop innovative solutions to complex problems using quantitative tools and
qualitative analysis.
Page 42
TECHNIO-,L , DVISORY GROUP
The Itasca Project would like to thank the Technical Advisory Committee who
provided local expertise and guidance to the analysis.
Page 43
CTIB
Corridors of Opportunity
Hennepin County
Hennepin County
Metropolitan Council
Metropolitan Council
Metropolitan Council
-, -
Metropolitan Council
Minneapolis Regional Chamber of Commerce and Saint
Paul Area Chamber of Commerce
The McKnight Foundation
The McKnight Foundation
Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy
Minnesota Chamber of Commerce
University of Minnesota
University of Minnesota
ULI MSV and Regional Council of Mayors
Washington County
Page 43
MINUTES OF THE PARKS AND RECREATION ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING
October 11, 2012
PRESENT: Commissioners: G. Anderson, N. Carroll, M. Riley, A. Vanderwall, J. Vecere, K.
Wyse
Staff: D. Evans, B. Northway, B. Abel, D. Lauer, D. Sankey
Planning Commission Liaison: D. Kobusson
City Council Liaison: G. Black
ABSENT: J. Zwack
1. CALL TO ORDER
Chair Carroll called the meeting to order at 7:04 p.m.
2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
MOTION was made by Commissioner Vanderwall and seconded by Commissioner Wyse
to approve the September minutes.
Vote: 6 Ayes. Motion approved.
3. OPEN FORUM
Chair Carroll mentioned that it is the 100th anniversary of Girl Scouting. The Girl Scouts
are having clean-up event at the Hilde Center and Parkers Lake Cemetery this weekend.
4. VISITOR PRESENTATIONS (NON -ACTION ITEMS):
a. Staff Presentation — Bill Abel, Plymouth Ice Center Manager
Bill Abel welcomed the commissioners to the Ice Center. We are the home of Wayzata
High School and Providence Academy hockey teams. In the past, Wayzata girls did
not practice here, but they have picked up a lot of the open time since Armstrong left.
We did lose some revenue for games and concessions, about $5,000 per year. We
have had calls from Armstrong Youth Hockey looking for some hours.
Rinks A and B are now 15 years old, and they are starting to age. We will have some
capital expenditures coming up. Rink C is eight years old. We are looking at changing
Rink A from Olympic to professional size. The youth programs just do not want to use
the Olympic size rink anymore. Some groups would rather go with later times on the
other sheets than use the Olympic size rink. We would bring in the far side of the rink,
which would create a 20% savings on energy. Chair Carroll asked if temporary
bumpers could be put up. Abel said that Wayzata Youth Hockey has these bumpers,
but they do not like to use them because it is not very stable. We have talked about
drop-down netting, a $9000 project. We decided against it because the checking
Page 44
PRAC Minutes/October 11, 2012
Page 2
function does not work well with the less than stable boards. Another issue is that Rink
A has a sand floor and needs 3" of ice. The other floors, which are concrete, need just
1 " of ice. The dirt expands and contracts more and pushes through the paint. It is also
quicker to make ice on the concrete floors. We saved $50,000 by going with the sand
floor at the time of building the facility. It would cost $500,000 to change it now. The
freon refrigerant is another issue. It would cost $20,000-$30,000 to replace it if the
freon is lost. It is scheduled to be taken off the market. We are looking at going with
ammonia. We use this with Rink C, and it works very well.
Our revenue still exceeds expenses. We have had $1.2 million in revenue so far this
year with expenses of $800,000. We have put away $1 million so far for capital
improvements. Once Rink C is paid off, $154,000 per year will be added to our profit.
We installed a new cooling tower, which was purchased two years ago at a good price
and then stored. When it was needed, we were able to install it without losing any ice
time. We will replace the speakers in front of the bleachers. We just installed the brand
new scoreboard last week. It will be running by next week. The old one operated on a
DOS system and was very out of date.
Director Evans asked about the air quality issue. Abel said everything is run on
electricity, so we have not needed to do air testing. The Health Department will now
start to require air testing. They will mandate that we purchase a license from the
Health Department and be certified. Staff must have training "just in case." Chair
Carroll asked about cost. It is $300 per rink. The League of Minnesota Cities is trying
to combat this. If we run a lift or something gas powered we will have to take the air
test, and we will need to buy the equipment to do it. Councilmember Black asked
whose rules these are. Abel said the rules are from the State Health Department, but
the county will run it.
Abel explained that for over 15 years, we have had Lifetime Fitness members coming
in and skating free during open skate times. If the people have a card, we cannot tell if
it is current or how many of the kids they bring along are actually theirs. We probably
lose about $5,000 with the free skating program. We are now requiring the members
to go to Lifetime first to get a pass before they can skate free. We are still working out
a few kinks in the system, but it should work well.
Abel thinks we are the second busiest rink in the state, with Blaine being the busiest
with eight ice sheets. Commissioner Wyse asked if it is beneficial to have Lifetime
here. Abel thinks it is beneficial for the city, but not necessarily for the Ice Center.
Parking is a big problem at times. The Ice Center contributes a lot to the community
economy because of the approximately 500,000 visitors we have each year.
5. COMMISSION / STAFF UPDATE (NON -ACTION ITEMS):
Page 45
PRAC Minutes/October 11, 2012
Page 3
a. 2012 Work Plan Progress
Director Evans spoke on the work plan and the progress we have made.
Commissioner Anderson asked about trail usage and tracking of numbers. Evans said
we just got new equipment to track usage of the trails, and it will be reported in the
annual report.
b. County Road 73 / Zachary Lane Open Space
Director Evans reported on the acquisition of 5.12 acres, which connected to
previously acquired land. In the future, we hope to acquire land to connect this piece
to LaCompte Playfield. This area will not be developed with asphalt trails, but will
perhaps have mowed trails in the future. Councilmember Black asked about the
parcels. Evans said there are two or three parcels, which could be picked up when
future development is started.
c. Hampton Hills Neighborhood Park
Director Evans said SRF has been brought in to develop a design for this park. We are
sponsoring an open house at Taylor Creek Club for the neighborhood on October 25
for people to drop in, ask questions and give their input. We have had many calls
from residents requesting the park to be done. Space at the Taylor Creek Club is
fairly small, but we wanted to have the meeting on site. If a couple of the
commissioners could attend, that would work well. We will let you all know what
information is gathered. Typically, a neighborhood park does not have as many
amenities as a city park. Examples would be a playground, some open space for pick-
up games, a basketball court, perhaps a picnic shelter, and some trails. We want to
be inclusive in letting the neighborhood have some input.
d. Training Facility at the Plymouth Ice Center
Director Evans reported that on Sept 18, we went to Council for authorization to apply
for a grant to build the training facility. The purpose of the grant is to encourage
expanding or construction of youth sport facilities. The facility would not just be for
hockey — it is for all sports. Since it would be at the Ice Center, the hockey
associations would be prime users. Wayzata Hockey has pledged $100,000 for the
project, Providence $10,000, and Wayzata High School Boosters $1,000. This could
change if we get the grant. Acceleration Minnesota would be the partner. They are
now located in another part of town. Their lease of the space would provide valuable
revenue for the Ice Center. The cost for the project would be about $960,000. Many
ice facilities already have this type of training facility in place. Chair Carroll asked if
Evans had a sense of what the grant would be if we receive it. She thinks we have
enough support and need, and knowing the total cost of the project, we could qualify
for a higher amount. Commissioner Anderson asked about the space. Bill Abel said it
would be a block wall space, and Acceleration Minnesota would bring in the
equipment. Carroll asked whether anyone from the public could use the facility. Abel
said yes, anyone. It is a great source of non -ice revenue. We need to keep the money
coming in for years to come. Carroll asked if Evans had a sense of how we will score.
She said our application last year for the turf was scored well as a good viable project,
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but we did not get it. They did say the training facility grant application was well
written. They will start to go over the applications next week. Anderson asked if it is
built, could it ever be expanded. Abel said there is probably not enough room. We
would not be taking away any parking or green space with this project. He mentioned
that there are other back-up possibilities if Acceleration Minnesota were to leave.
Other groups are interested in leasing the space. It would be a good facility for many
years to come.
e. Upcoming Community / Special Events
Director Evans gave an update on trails. The sidewalk on County Road 9 and
Vicksburg is under construction. The Northwest Boulevard project is encountering
easement issues. Business owners along the route do not want to give easement
unless they receive compensation. The City has never done that. The project probably
will not go in this year. She suspects that many trail gaps we have in the city could
have similar problems in the future. We have started working on a Hennepin County
Gap Grant to fill gaps identified by the county. The 2014 project is a gap on County
Road 6, and it is one of the ones identified by Hennepin County. We have a short time
to pull together the grant application, as the deadline is November 1.
Plymouth on Parade was a great day — beautiful weather. We estimated about 4,100
participants. We did get some complaints from residents about too many politicians
in the parade. It would be hard to say no to their applications.
Halloween at the Creek is on October 31, the Bridal Expo is November 3, and the Pet
Expo is November 3 & 4. Dan Lauer explained that this is our first — hopefully annual —
Pet Expo event. We have 25 vendors now. We also have competitions — a sanctioned
Flyball tournament and a Disc Dog tournament. Some teams are coming from as far
away as Canada and Nebraska. Commissioner Anderson asked if it will be publicized
on the electronic signs. Lauer said it already is. He will be doing something with Dave
Kaiser from Channel 12.
6. NEW BUSINESS (ACTION ITEMS):
a. Neiqhborhood Park Name
Director Evans asked if the commissioners had any ideas or comments on the naming
of the new Hampton Hills Park. Commissioner Riley asked about Taylor Hills because
it does use parts of the names of both developments surrounding the park. She also
said Fairway Greens respects the fact that it was once a golf course. Deputy Director
Northway described the park site as being in a bit of a valley and lined by maple, oak
and tamarack. Evans mentioned that it does connect to the Northwest Greenway.
MOTION: Commissioner Riley moved to name the new neighborhood park Fairway
Greens Park. Chair Carroll seconded the motion.
VOTE: 6 Ayes. Motion approved.
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PRAC Minutes/October 11, 2012
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7. ADJOURNMENT
Chair Carroll entertained the motion to adjourn. MOTION was made by Commissioner
Vanderwall and seconded by Commissioner Vecere.
Vote: 6 Ayes. Motion approved. The meeting adjourned at 8:40 p.m.
The next meeting will be held on December 13 in the Council Chambers
Donna Sankey - PRAC recorder
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Approved Minutes
Environmental Quality Committee (EQC)
November 14, 2012
MEMBERS PRESENT: Chair Kathy Osborne, Committee Members Sandra Gilbert, Andy
Polzin, Ken Zieska, Tawma Johnson and Paul Roth
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: Water Resources Manager Derek Asche
OTHERS PRESENT: Councilmember Ginny Black
1. Call to Order - 7:00 P.M.
2. Public Forum
3. Approval of Agenda
Motion by Committee Member Gilbert, seconded by Committee Member Polzin, recommending
approval of the November 14, 2012, Environmental Quality Committee meeting agenda with
additions. With all members voting in favor, the motion carried.
4. Presentations and Public Information Announcements
A. PERVIOUS CONCRETE UPDATE
Water Resources Manager Asche reported that in the last few weeks the City has replaced a
portion of asphalt in the upper parking lot of City Hall with precast pervious concrete block. He
said it is hoped that the blocks will resolve the freeze and refreeze of snow melt in a once
dangerous area. He added that it is also a good test of the porous concrete.
5. Consent Agenda
A. APPROVAL OF OCTOBER 10, 2012, ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COMMITTEE
MINUTES
Motion by Committee Member Polzin, seconded by Committee Member Gilbert, recommending
approval of the November 14, 2012, Environmental Quality Committee consent agenda. With
all members voting in favor, the motion carried.
6. General Business
A. EQC SPONSORED PROJECT - BUCKTHORN REMOVAL
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Environmental Quality Committee Minutes
November 14, 2012
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Committee Member Zieska reviewed the draft Buckthorn Control Education and Outreach
Project and the following suggestions and comments were provided by the EQC:
• Coordinate with the City's annual plant sale for plants to replace buckthorn
• Submit buckthorn removal plan to the Council Information Memorandum (CIM)
• Review existing Water Resources Grant and modify language to include plants to replace
buckthorn
• Review Water Resources Grant at the December EQC meeting
• Create video on buckthorn removal
Motion by Committee Member Roth, seconded by Committee Member Johnson, recommending
that the draft Buckthorn Control Education and Outreach Project outline be placed in the CIM
for the City Council's information. With all members voting in favor, the motion carried.
A motion was made approving the Buckthorn Control Education and Outreach Project outline
with the inclusion of Water Resources Manager Asche's edits. With all members voting in
favor, the motion carried.
B. DRAFT 2012 ANNUAL REPORT AND 2013 WORK PLAN
Water Resources Manager Asche referred to the draft 2012 Annual Report and 2013 Work Plan
and asked for comments from the EQC. The following additions were made:
• Add participation in the Yard & Garden Expo on Page 3 of 5 under Accomplishments
• Under the 2013 EQC Schedule of Activities add a presentation on Green Step Cities to
the August 14 EQC meeting
• Add "2013" to EQC Sponsored Project under 2013 EQC Schedule of Activities for
March
• Add organics recycling to the 2013 EQC Schedule of Activities for April (separate item
from the Solid Waste Annual Report)
• Add the Farmer's Market on Page 5 under TBD
Motion by Committee Member Polzin, seconded by Committee Member Johnson,
recommending approval of the EQC 2012 Annual Report and 2013 Work Plan as amended for
distribution to the City Council. With all members voting in favor, the motion carried.
7. Reports and Staff Recommendations
8. Future Meetings - December 12, 2012
9. Adjournment
With no objection, the meeting adjourned at 8:22 p.m.
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MINUTES
WAYZATA COMMUNITIES IN COLLABORATION COUNCIL
December 12, 2012
PRESENT
Margy Herbert, Katie Jackelen, Judy Hanson, Mikayla Krenz, Danielle Tran, Lisa
Stordahl, Rochelle Olson, Janet Carlson, Prasanna Vankina, Charlene Barghini, Linnea
Fonnest, Becca Fink, Caitlin Mack, Rachelle Nelko, Faye Otero, Cheryl Polzin, Angela
Haseman, Lucia Gardner, Bob Wittman, Diane Evans and Maria Sanchez.
CALL TO ORDER
• Katie Jackelen, CICC Chairperson for 2012-2013, called the meeting to order.
NOVEMBER MINUTES
• The minutes were approved as written.
STATE OF VOLUNTEERING IN OUR COMMUNITY:
• Students from Club Y.E.S. presented information on their organization and
activities. (Youth Extending Services)
• A service organization made up of over 650 high school students. The students in
grades 9 through 12 meet monthly after school in the 2nd Floor Forum at Wayzata
High School.
• All club activities are planned and executed through a student advisory board.
Meetings are led by board members, and many students take on leadership roles
by serving as event chairs. There is a speaker and time is spent reviewing
completed service projects. It is also a time to learn about new ideas and projects.
• Club Y.E.S. Mission Statement: Community service learning in the Wayzata
Public Schools is:
o To develop and to instill in all students an awareness, understanding, and
appreciation of community.
o To value citizenship and the responsibilities each citizen has to help
others.
o To encourage in all students a LIFETIME of applying the habits and skills
learned through the program
o To strengthen the community and to improve and enrich the lives of all its
members.
• Examples of current volunteer programs and opportunities:
o Kids Garage Sale, Study Buddies, Bell Ringing/Salvation Army,
Homework Help, Adapted Sports Teams, Habitat for Humanity, Feed My
Starving Children, Elementary Carnivals, Book Fairs and fundraisers,
Pack Back Buddies, Adopt a Highway, Human Society of Golden Valley,
Teens Alone, Relay for Life, Project SOAR, IOCP/Sleep Out.
• Club YES meetings have changed this year to also include volunteer opportunities
during meetings.
• PLYMOUTH TAG (Teens Advisory Group):
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• TAG's Mission: To give teens in Plymouth a voice by serving as a platform to
better the community through teen involvement, activities and volunteering.
• TAG meets the third Thursday each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Plymouth Creek
Center. You can help plan teen events and recommend services. Membership can
be used for school community service requirements and looks great on a college
or job application.
• Volunteer with City of Plymouth programs and activities.
• Examples: Plymouth Park and Rec programs, clean-up projects, Farmers Market,
Plymouth Beyond the Yellow Ribbon.
• WAYZATA COMMUNITY IN ACTION:
• h ttp: //wayzatacia. orQ/
• Wayzata Community in Action started in 2011 as a grassroots effort of current
and former Oakwood Elementary School moms who are highly motivated to
make a difference in our community through service. Knowing there are many
significant needs in our community, we are committed to inspiring people to use
the gifts they have been given for the greater good.
• For most people, finding an organization or specific opportunity can be quite
challenging and will limit a person's willingness to get involved. Wayzata
Community in Action was created to provide one place that acts as a
clearinghouse for needs in our community. People looking to volunteer or share
their time, talents and resources will no longer have to spend hours searching
multiple websites to find ways to give back in the local area. It is our vision to
connect people's need with resources provided by neighbors and friends.
• Wayzata CIA wants to encourage a lifestyle where neighbor helping neighbor is a
natural part of everyday life. A place where a family can check out volunteer
opportunities — and make a difference within the greater Wayzata community.
• Website offers information on how to become a volunteer or list your opportunity.
• "Go Fund Me" link with step by step instructions on how to raise funds.
• Benefits local area and WPS surrounding area.
MINI CICC MEMBER PRESENTATIONS
• Bob Wittman, Director, Community Education, WPS:
o Grounded in the core values of lifelong learning and citizen involvement,
the Community Education Department is an integral component of the
Wayzata Public Schools. We strive to provide opportunities to learners of
every age through a variety of programs and services. Opportunities are
offered to local citizens, schools, agencies, businesses and institutions to
become active participants in our learning system both as a learner and as
a resource to it. We expand learning beyond kindergarten through grade
12 to include all community members and embrace both formal and
informal learning opportunities. We create an environment that views
education as anything that enhances life and expands personal potential.
o Community Education also schedules and operates district facilities before
and after school hours, on weekends, holidays and during the summer.
These facilities become home to programs offered by a host of
organizations ranging from athletics, music and language programs.
2
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Through community use of facilities and cooperative programming, we
strive to contribute to a community that values collaboration, partnerships
and maximum use of school and community resources.
o http://www.wayzata.kl2.mn.us/Page/31
• Becca Fink, Director, Ridgedale YMCA:
o The Y is an inclusive organization of men, women and children who share
a commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living
and fostering a sense of social responsibility. 45% of Ridgedale YMCA
users are active older adult population.
o At the Y, strengthening community is our cause. We believe that lasting
personal and social change can only come about when we all work
together to invest in our kids, our health and our neighbors. That's why we
focus our work in three areas:
■ Youth Development — Nurturing the potential of every child and
teen
■ Healthy Living — Improving the nation's health and well-being
■ Social Responsibility — Giving back and providing support to our
neighbors
o YMCA Programs: Youth in Government (YIG), Camp Christmas Tree,
Swimming Lessons
o Partner with local Middle Schools providing After School Programs
COMMUNITY UPDATES
Plymouth Library: Winter brochure are available
School Board: Boundary changes voted on and approved, 150 youth reassigned to
new elementary schools, minimum adjustments to middle school students.
Parenting Forum: Saturday, February 2, 2013, Central Middle School, 8:30-1:00
The meeting was adjourned at 4:15 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Margy Herbert
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