HomeMy WebLinkAboutCouncil Information Memorandum 02-18-2011CITY OF PLYMOUTH
rp) COUNCIL INFO MEMO
February 18, 2011
UPCOMING MEETINGS AND EVENTS
PACTAgenda 02/23/11........................................................................................................................ Page 1
HRA Agenda 02/24/11......................................................................................................................... Page 2
Twin West 26h Annual Gala, 03/11/11................................................................................................. Page 3
February, March, April 2011 Official City Meeting Calendars........................................................... Page 4
Tentative List of Agenda Items for Future City Council Meetings ..................................................... Page 7
INFORMATION
News Articles, Releases, Publications, Etc ...
The coming boomer bust: Some huge problems facing Minnesota, Article, MinnPost. COM............ Page 8
Ehlers Market Commentary 02/14/11............................................................................................... Page 13
Comments submitted relating to SEC proposed rule regarding municipal financial advisors........... Page 15
MEETING MINUTES
Planning Commission 02/02/11 Meeting Minutes............................................................................ Page 17
STAFF REPORTS
Best Management Practices Inspection Policy................................................................................... Page 31
Ehlers Debt Comparison.................................................................................................................... Page 35
EQC Committee Elections................................................................................................................. Page 38
PRAC Committee Elections............................................................................................................... Page 39
CORRESPONDENCE
Letter to Resident, RE: Development Application for Hampton Hills 2011002 ............................... Page 40
Letter to Minnehaha Creek WSD, RE: Curly Leaf Pond Weed Study .............................................. Page 41
Letter from State Representative Runbeck, RE: Examining potential Local Government Aid Reform.....
........................................................................................................................................................... Page 42
Letter from Gleason Lake Improvement Assoc, RE: Zebra Mussels ................................................ Page 43
Thank you from Cub Scouts.............................................................................................................. Page 44
PLYMOUTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON TRANSIT
AGENDA
Wednesday, February 23, 2011, 7:00 p.m.
Medicine Lake Room, City Hall
1. 7:00 Approve agenda
2. 7:02 Approve December 1, 2010 minutes (December 1, 2010 Minutes attached)
3. 7:08 Election of PACT 2011 Officers
4. 7:20 Distribute PACT 2011 Work Plan (2011 Work Plan attached)
5. 7:30 Legislative update
6. 7:35 RFP status
7. 7:40 Discuss driver awards
8. 7:45 Discuss 2010 Annual Transit Report (2010 Annual Transit Report attached)
9. 8:05 Review 2010 transit survey information
10. 8:15 Fleet update
11. 8:20 Discuss Long Range Plan, Service Improvement Plan
12. 8:35 Review Plymouth Metrolink Transit Performance Measurements (attached: January
2011 System Ridership Graph, January 2011 Fixed Route Ridership Graph, January 2011
Dial -A -Ride Ridership Graph)
13, 8:40 Review Plymouth Metrolink Customer Service Log (December -101 0 through January
2011 Customer Service Log attached)
14. 8:45 Identify areas of concern and recommendations
15. 8:55 Other business
16.9:00 Adjourn
17. Future meetings: May 25, 2011, Jule 27, 2011, November 30, 2011
All meetings held at 7:00 p.m. at City Hall on the main floor in the Medicine Lake Room AIB.
Plymouth Advisory Committee on Transit, 02-23-11 Agenda Page 111
Page 1
MEETING AGENDA
PLYMOUTH HOUSING AND REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2011 - 7:00 p.m.
WHERE: Medicine Lake Room
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Boulevard
Plymouth, MN 55447
CONSENT AGENDA
All items listed with an asterisk (*) are considered to be routine by the Housing and
Redevelopment Authority and will be enacted by one motion. There will be no
separate discussion of these items unless a Commissioner, citizen or petitioner so
requests, in which event the item will be removed from the consent agenda and
considered in normal sequence on the agenda.
1. CALL TO ORDER - 7:00 P.M.
2. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Approve HRA Meeting Minutes from January 27, 2011.
B. Plymouth Towne Square. Accept Monthly Housing Report (January, 2011)
C. Vicksburg Crossing. Accept Monthly Housing Report (January, 2011)
3. PUBLIC HEARING
A. Community Development Block Grant. Consider 2011 Action Plan.
4. NEW BUSINESS
A. Vicksburg Crossing. Marketing Report.
B. Election of Officers. Chair, Vice -Chair, Secretary.
5j. ADJOURNMENT
Page 2
IAMBER OF COMMERCE
26th ANNUAL BALA
RIVERS SAT
,M+ A-r1r*E•Jft}1,o C*Kvs4
Friday, March 11,1011
Doubletree 1lctel Minneapolis Park Place
TwinWest Chamber of Commerce
26th Annual Gala
Riverboat Mavericks
From boots to bows ties, join us to...
• Enjoy sweet and savory selections offered by 16 local restaurants and caterers
• Play casino games with authentic Grand Casino dealers
• Win great door prizes
• Bid on fabulous items in the live and silent auction such as the favorite Wall of Wine
• Network vdth over 650 business leaders and guests
• Enter the Graham Jewelers raffle to win a diamond necklace or a men's Tissot watch
• Raise funds for TwinlVest's initiatives and the TwinVVest
Foundation scholarship program
Friday, March 11, 2011
7:00 p.m. -12:00 a.m.
Doubletree Hotel Minneapolis Park Place
1500 Park Place Blvd.
St. Louis Park, MN 55416
Valet will be provided
Tickets are $fly including tax. Purchase 10 tickets and receive two free!
Purchase tickets online at www.twinwest.corn/ or call (763) 450-2220.
Page 3
r� Plymouthr`c
Adding Quality to Life
February 2011
Modified on 01118111
Page 4
1
2
3
4
5
7:00 PM
6:00 PM
2:00 PM
PLANNING
BOARD AND
FIRE & ICE
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
FESTIVAL
MEETING
RECOGNITION
Parkers Lake
Council Chambers
EVENT
Plymouth Creek
Center
6
7
8 5:30 PM
9
10
11
12
SPECIAL COUNCIL
7:00 PM
7:00 PM
MEETING
ENVIRONMENTAL
PARK & REC
Medicine Lake Room
QUALITY
ADVISORY
COMMITTEE
COMMISSION
7:00 PM
(EQC) MEETING
(FRAC) MEETING
REGULAR COUNCIL
Council Chambers
Council Chambers
MEETING
Council Chambers
13
14
15
16 7:00 PM
17 7:00 PM
18
19
PLANNING
HUMAN RIGHTS
COMMISSION
COMMISSION
MEETING
MEETING
Council Chambers
Medicine Lake Room
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
7:00 PM
7:00 PM
7:00 PM
REGULAR COUNCIL
PLYMOUTH
HRA MEETING
PRESIDENTS
MEETING
ADVISORY
Medicine Lake Room
DAY
Council Chambers
COMMITTEE ON
TRANSIT (PACT)
MEETING
CITY OFFICES
Medicine Lake Room
CLOSED
27
28
• Disc
iss Transit System and Str
t Assessment Policy
Modified on 01118111
Page 4
r uCity of
9)p
lymouth
Adding Quality to Life
March 2011
Modified on 02/18/11
Page 5
1
2 7:30 AM
3 7:00 PM
4
5
STATE OF THE
POLICE DEPT.
CITY MEETING
ANNUAL
Council Chambers
RECOGNITION
EVENT
Plymouth Creek
7:00 PM
Center
PLANNING
COMMISSION
MEETING
Council h m r
6
7
8 7:00 PM
9 7:00 PM
10
11
12
REGULAR COUNCIL
ENVIRONMENTAL
MEETING
QUALITY
Council Chambers
COMMITTEE (EQC)
MEETING
Council Chambers
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
b:00 PM
7:.00 PM
9:00 AM—
SPECIAL COUNCIL
PLANNING
12:00 PM
MEETING`
COMMISSION
CITY SAMPLER
Medicine Lake Room
MEETING
Plymouth City Hall
Council Chambers
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
7:00 PM
7:00 PM
REGULAR COUNCIL
HRA MEETING
MEETING
Medicine Lake Room
Council Chambers
27
28
29
30
31
Discu
s Future Park Issues and U
date with City Manager
Modified on 02/18/11
Page 5
r� Plymouth�;;�
Adding Quality to Life
April 2011
Modified on 02118111
Page 6
1
2
3
4
5
6 7:00 PM
7
8 6:00-8:00 PM
9:04 AM -1:00 PM
PLANNING
YARD & GARDEN
YARD ft GARDEN
COMMISSION
EXPO
EXPO
MEETING
Plymouth Creek
Plymouth Creek
Council Chambers
Center Fieldhouse
Center Fieldhouse
10
11
12
12
14
15
16
6:00 PM
7:00 PM
5:00-9:00 PM
10:00 AM—
Board of
ENVIRONMENTAL
PRIMAVERA
4:00 PM
Equalization
QUALITY
Plymouth Fine
PRIMAVERA
Council Chambers
Arts Council
Plymouth Fine
COMMITTEE
Show
Arts Council
7:00 PM
(EQC) MEETING
Plymouth Creek
lyouchCreek
Show
REGULAR COUNCIL
Council Chambers
Center
Plymouth Creek
MEETING
Center
Council Chambers
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
1:00-4:00 PM
10:00 AM -4:00 PM
10:00 AM -4:00 PM
700 PM
PRIMAVERA
7:00 PM -8:30 PM
PRIMAVERA
PLANNING
Plymouth Fine
PRIMAVERA
Plymouth Fine
COMMISSION
Arts Council
Plymouth Fine
Arts Council
MEETING
Show
Arts Council
Show
Council Chambers
Plymouth Creek
Show
Plymouth Creek
Center
Plymouth Creek
Center
Passover Begins
sunfet
24
at
25
26
27
28
29
30
6:44 PM
Board of
7:04 PM
Equalization
HRA MEETING
Reconvened
Parkers Lake Room
Council Chambers
7:00 PM
REGULAR COUNCIL
MEETING
Council Chambers
Modified on 02118111
Page 6
Tentative Schedule for
City Council Agenda Items
March 8, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers
• Discuss Park and Recreation Advisory Commission's Annual Work Plan
• Approve Joint Powers Agreement for distribution and operation of Breath Testing Instrument
March 15, Special, 6:00 p.m., Medicine Lake Room
• Discuss future park issues
• Update with City Manager
March 22, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers
April 12, Board of Equalization, 6:00 p.m., Council Chambers
April 12, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers
April 26, Board of Equalization Reconvened, 6:00 p.m., Council Chambers
April 26, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers
Note: Special Meeting topics have been set by Council; all other topics are tentative. Page 7
MinnPost.COM
The coming boomer bust: Some huge problems facing Minnesota
By Sharon Schmickle I Monday, Feb. 14, 2091
Like the scriptural prophet crying in the wilderness, the state economist and state demographer have warned
Minnesota for two years that it must prepare for potentially devastating demographic waves, Now, as elected officials
in St. Paul wrestle with a $6.2 billion budget gap, demographer Tom Gillaspy and economist Tom Stinson have
renewed their warnings in the context of upcoming budget decisions. If you are getting ready to defend or debate the
budget Gov. Mark Dayton is set to release on Tuesday – or, if you're going to try your hand at MinnPost's budget_
balancing puzzle — you really should turn first to their new report, "The Long Run Has Become the Short Run:
Budget Implications of Demographic Change."
I'll share a few highlights here. "The 2010s will see Minnesota transform from a young state to an old state, from a
work -based economy to a retirement -based, entitlement economy. Many of the rules that govern how the world
'normally works' will change and a new set of rules of thumb for the 'New Normal' will take their place," they say.
With the baby boomers retiring, nearly as many people in Minnesota will turn 65 during this decade as in the previous
four decades combined. And the aging ramps even higher during the next decade.
Here's that part of the story in a picture. (This graphic and others in this article were provided to MinnPost courtesy
Tom Gillaspy and the Minnesota State Demographic Center.)
This Decade And Next Will See 'Unprecedentled
Increases In Minnesota's 654. Population
Page 8
The upshot is that by the end of this decade, Minnesota will have as many people age 65 and older as children in K-
12 schools. And unless the state finds new ways to deliver and pay for health care and other services for older
residents, it will have to curtail those services or pull money away from education.
More 65+ Than: School.Age ln:minnesota by 7020
Creat ne Pressure ToChan.ge'Budget Priorities
4;90,000
�4v��'4q•�V:VSgA(Vlagl�
�bgW�pVy,/�k/q+V99��Uq`N
'.�i r1y4V'id 1J
Meanwhile, growth in the labor force will slow dramatically. And so will the economy unless we find ways to make
Minnesota's workers more productive.
But there is one big impediment to increasing productivity: The next generation of workers doesn't have the skills that
will be needed to replace the retiring boomers. Improving their skills is an urgent need for Minnesota.
But that takes time and investment — you can't order up a new team of doctors or registered nurses overnight or
even over a year or two.
Further, the state has not taken steps to increase revenues in tandem with projected growth, let alone in numbers
sufficient to invest in the next generation of workers.
Page 9
4 7 -In 3J
2—
a
IWXMQ Sate* Comarme Other Twat
On top of these demographic factors, the Great Recession also slammed the brakes on growth for years to come.
State Revenues Lost to a Recession Are
Never Regained
2006 ZW4 2013 7011 2031; 12015 lolls MD
Here is the sum of all of these factors: Unless Minnesota breaks promises it has made to its elderly citizens, neglects
the education of its K-12 students, finds now revenue or finds cheaper ways to deliver services, here's how the
revenue growth stacks up next to the projected spending for those two categories alone.
Page 10
It noesota ,date Government Revenue Growth WWI 'S
Challenged By Growth In Two Major Expenditure Groups
Revenua EI'darty Mtdlcal 942 Edur®tian
14--Oo; UAIP-sN-94, &,N1A"Ws q4I
The spike in elderly medical assistance isn't driven by the sheer number of retirees alone. A good share of it comes
from inflation of health care costs. Getting a grip on that factor is a prime state and national challenge.
And the brutal truth is that Minnesota will be so boxed in by health care costs it will have little money left for other
services.
Grapbic From The 2008 Budget Trends Commission Report
if State Health: Care Costs Corttinu 'heir Current
Tread, State Spending On Other Services CWt Grow
9%
m 7%
06%
5%
d1A
3%
A%
0%
0 FOP..
gtvefuc Heafth dare Education & All
Other
So there you have it. Something big has to happen in this state in terms of changing expectations or finding new
strategies. If it doesn't happen, something big will collapse.
Page 11
Minnesota's two prophets — Stinson and Gillaspy — were appropriately Minnesotan in stressing the strength of the
state's accomplishments. "Minnesota's experience since World War II has been remarkable. Minnesota went from a
below-average education and below-average income state to a national leader in both measures. This relationship is
not coincidental. Improving educational outcomes improved the quality of the workforce, matching the demands of the
late 20th century economy. Minnesota's achievement was in creating a well-educated, hard-working, easily trained,
highly productive workforce that produces quality goods and services. By 2009, Minnesota ranked fifth in the nation in
employment ratio, 13th in median earnings of full-time year-round workers, 10th in median family income and third-
highest in cost of living adjusted income.... Minnesota also ranks 11th in the percent of the adult population with at
least a bachelors degree and second in the percent with at least a high school diploma. Minnesota has performed
well, with rising incomes led by rising education achievement levels."
However, they end the report on an appropriately stern prophetic note: "The most successful organizations and
economies face a special difficulty during times of great disruptive change – the tyranny of success. The smugness
that comes from past success can be a great pitfall. Often, the very factors that lead to past success can be the
source of failure. Failures of leadership, vision, strategic focus and policy that lead to past success can become the
Achilles' heel as technological and market conditions change over time ... Minnesota, as a successful economy, must
avoid the tyranny of success if it is to be successful in the future. Future changes, led largely by demographic shifts,
will be so disruptive that businesses and governments will require a new business model." Finding that new business
model is particularly challenging for governments, they say. Unlike a business that can gauge what customers want,
the state must determine Minnesota's needs.
"The private sector has a means of dealing with organizations that do not get the wants/needs equation right," they
say. "Not so the government sector. Market forces do not directly give governments clues about whether the
government is on the right course. For this, constant monitoring of progress towards a commonly accepted vision is
necessary."
Sharon Schmickle writes about national and foreign affairs and science. She can be reached at sschmickle [at)
minnpost fdot] com.
Page 12
Ehlers
Market o _ ii.
February 14, 2011
Back to "Normal"?
Now that the Super Bowl is over, and other more important things like changes in international
regimes are dominating the news, the credit markets in the United States continue to function in a
somewhat "normal" fashion. On a world-wide scale, the general upward trend in U.S. Treasury yields
of the last five months has paused, with a hint of "flight to safety" in light of recent Mideast and
North -African uncertainties cited by some market participants.
Municipal bonds continue to find buyers in spite of commentary in the media questioning their safety.
As of Friday, February 11, the average yield on 10 year, tax-exempt, AAA -rated municipal bonds as
compiled by both Thompson Financial and Bloomberg.com had fallen below the 3.64% yield reported
for the 10 year U.S. Treasury note. This is a positive development for governmental borrowers, but
yields on high quality, tax-exempt municipals still do not fully reflect their federal tax advantage
versus those for comparable term U.S. Treasury securities.
Sometimes it is helpful to step back from the macro view, the "view from 30,000 feet," and look at
what is happening "on the ground". Attached to this market report are tabulations of recent
competitive municipal bond sales in Ehlers' primary market area. Here we offer a brief summary of
these sales and some observations from 2011 bond sales, to date.
a General
0 32 issuers issued 40 separate issues
o total volume = $213 Million, averaging $5.3 Million each
■ 31 tax-exempt issues
■ 9 taxable issues
o Average life of issues = 11.5 years, ranging from 2 years to 23 years
o Average true interest cost = 4.70%, ranging from 1.50% to 5.60%
Interest from bond dealers and other primary purchasers
o An average of 6.6 bidders per issue
0 15 different underwriters submitted winning bids
® Ratings
0 4 issues non -rated
0 4 issues rated in the A categories
0 28 issues rated in the AA categories
0 3 issues rated AAA
e Bond Insurance selected by bidders on 5 issues
0 1 non -rated issue
0 1 A -rated issue
0 3 AA -rated issues
EHLERS wwuv.onlersmitic.com
49 Offices in Minnesota (800) 552-1171
Wisconsin: (800) 717-9742
LEADERS IN PUBLIC FINANCE Illinois: (800) 417-1119
Page 13
Ehlers Markt Commentary February 14, 2011
It is clear that there is an active market for local municipal debt of various ratings and maturities
given the strong appetite by underwriters for competitively offered bonds. However, there are
several indications that concerns about credit quality remain:
1. All but 4 of the 40 issues were rated. It seems there is not as wide a market for non -rated
transactions as was evidenced in the past. Many more non -rated issues continue to be brought to
market under a negotiated placement or private placement than prior to the credit market collapse
in late 2008. Anecdotally, we are having success offering non -rated bonds through competitive
sale in both the Wisconsin and Minnesota markets, whereas that had been relatively difficult
through the first half of 2010.
2. Bond insurance, which had virtually disappeared, was selected by the winning bidders to bolster
the creditworthiness of five of the issues. Interestingly this included three issues which had bond
ratings in the AA category (equivalent to the rating of the bond insurer).
EHLERS
LEADERS IN PUBLIC FINANCE
www,ehiers-inc.com
Page 14
Page 2
GFOA ENCOURAGES ITS MEMBERS TO SUBMIT LETTERS TO THE SECURITIES
AND EXCHNGE COMMISSION THAT WOULD DEFINE APPOINTED MEMBERS OF
GOVERNMENTAL BODIES AS FINANCIAL ADVISORS
Comments due to the SEC on February 22, 2011
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has proposed a rule (SEC Rule 34-63576 -
http://see.gov/rules/pro-posed/2010/34-63576.pdf) to determine who is treated as a municipal financial
advisor under the Dodd -Frank Act. A municipal financial advisor is one that provides advice to a state or
municipal entity, including public pension funds, as to the issuance of municipal securities, swap
transactions and/or investment strategies. Financial advisors must adhere to various registration,
disclosure, fee and other requirements set forth by the SEC and the Municipal Securities Rulemaking
Board (MSRB).
To the alarm of the GFOA and many others in the state and local government community, the SEC's
proposal would define as municipal financial advisors appointed board members of a governing body
where munici al securities or anv investment decisions are made including public pension boards.
While government employees and elected officials are exempt from the definition, the SEC specifically
included appointed members to governing bodies within the financial advisor definition, as well as
government employees who serve on boards of entities other than their employer.
This proposed definition could impact thousands of governing bodies and their appointed members.
The GFOA and others in the state and local government community strongly oppose the SEC's proposed
definition of municipal financial advisor, and we urge our members to submit comments to the SEC,
reiterating this message. Comments may be submitted, through this portal — h!tp://sec.gov/cgi-bin/ruling-
coinments?r-uling—s74510&rulepath=/comments/s7-45-10&file num=S7-45-
10&action=Show Form&title—Re istration%20of%20Munici al%20Advisors.
Key points to stress
1. A state or local government governing board, comprised of appointed members, can not serve as
an advisor to itself.
2. All members serving on a governing body should be exempt from the municipal financial advisor
definition, whether appointed, elected or an employee.
3. Appointed members of governing bodies, especially at the local level, are typically citizen
volunteers who are interested in serving for the public good, and often have special expertise that
is critical to the effective functioning of the governing body. Having the federal government
impose requirements on appointed state and local governing board members could deter citizens
from participating on these boards.
Please contact Susan Gaffney, Director of GFOA's Federal Liaison Center,gAfFney[a fog a.org, if you
have any questions on this matter.
Page 15
Coininents submission
Page IofI
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I ndnK yuu YUr zdKing the time to comment on this
releasee
Your comments for file number S7-45-10 were received on
February 16, 2011.
Please save this page for your records.
Comments received from:
Steven P Juetten
Plymouth, Minnesota
Email: sjuetten@plymouthmn.gov
Comments:
The City of Plymouth, MN Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA)
currently operates programs for blighted property redevelopment and
affordable housing. The HRA Board consists of five members, one currently
is an elected official (City Council) and the others are citizens of Plymouth.
No Board member is compensated for the work they do. Programs that the
HRA Board oversees are: Tax Increment Financing, Section 8, First Time
Home Buyer, Low Income Housing, social service agency assistance and
senior housing management. The definition opined by the SEC would
dramatically and negatively affect the programs that the City of Plymouth
and Plymouth HRA offer to low income and disadvantaged residents. I
submit the following points to consider:
A state or local government governing board, comprised of appointed
members, cannot serve as an advisor to itself=
All members serving on a governing body should be exempt from the
municipal financial advisor definition, whether appointed, elected or an
employee and,
Appointed members of governing bodies, especially at the local level, are
typically citizen volunteers who are interested in serving for the public
good, and often have special expertise that is critical to the effective
functioning of the governing body. Having the Federal government impose
requirements on appointed state and local governing board members could
deter citizens from participating on these boards.
http://www.sec.govlcgi-binlruling-cotT?ments
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http.//sec.gov/cgi-bin/ruling-comments PLM6/2011
Approved Minutes
City of Plymouth
Planning Commission Meeting
February 2, 2011
MEMBERS PRESENT: Chair James Davis, Commissioners Dick Kobussen, Gordon Petrash,
Scott Nelson, Bryan Oakley, Nathan Robinson and Marc Anderson
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: Planning Manager Barbara Senness, Senior Planner Shawn Drill, Senior
Planner Josh Doty, Senior Planner Marie Darling, City Engineer Bob Moberg, Community
Development Director Steve Juetten, Housing Manager Jim Barnes, and Office Support
Representative Janice Bergstrom
1. CALL TO ORDER - 7:00 P.M.
2. OATH OF OFFICE — Planning Commissioner Bryan Oakley
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
4. PUBLIC FORUM
5. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
MOTION by Commissioner Nelson, seconded by Commissioner Petrash, to approve the
February 2, 2011 Planning Commission Agenda. Vote. 7 Ayes. MOTION approved.
6. CONSENT AGENDA
A. APPROVAL OF THE JANUARY 19, 2011 PLANNING COMMISSION
MEETING MINUTES
MOTION by Commissioner Petrash, seconded by Commissioner Kobussen, to approve the
January 19, 2011 Planning Commission Minutes. Vote. 6 Ayes (Commissioner Oakley
abstained). MOTION approved.
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. CITY OF PLYMOUTH (2010088)
Chair Davis introduced the request by the City of Plymouth for the addition of 1) LA -5 land use
classification to the Plymouth Comprehensive Plan and 2) complementary zoning district to the
Plymouth Zoning Ordinance.
Senior Planner Darling gave an overview of the staff report.
Page 17
Approved
Planning Commission Minutes
February 2, 2011
Page 2
Commissioner Nelson said the Waterford Plaza has the tallest buildings in the city, and he asked
if guiding and zoning changes accommodated that development.
Senior Planner Darling said the 505 and 605 buildings were consistent with office developments.
She said the business campus district allows for a conditional use permit for taller buildings with
greater setbacks. Planning Manager Senness added that it was reviewed as a PUD at the time.
Commissioner Anderson said the 100 -foot height seems like an arbitrary number, and asked how
that number was arrived at or if it related to the number of stories.
Senior Planner Darling said staff reviewed what other cities' zoning ordinances allowed. This
proposal is consistent with height requirements for large apartments for those suburbs that allow
them.
Commissioner Robinson asked what the maximum height is in the RMF -4 zoning district.
Senior Planner Darling said the RMF -4 district allows 45 feet, but also allows taller buildings
with a conditional use permit.
Commissioner Kobussen referenced Subd. I regarding radio and television receivers, and
suggested striking out the word "receiving".
Senior Planner Darling stated that language is the same as other zoning districts, and was copied
for consistency.
Commissioner Kobussen said they are transmitting and receiving, and there is an inconsistency
being carried over that could use more clarification.
Planning Manager Senness said we will look at that language in the next ordinance update.
Commissioner Kobussen asked about the solar panel access referenced in Subd. 2(b).
Senior Planner Darling said the purpose is to prevent blocking someone's solar panels or creating
a permanent shadow. She said shadowing can be calculated based on the time of year.
Commissioner Kobussen asked why an administrative permit for model homes is associated with
apartments, as there wouldn't be model homes there.
Senior Planner Darling said if a condominium was proposed, units could be set up as model
homes.
Planning Manager Senness added that in some cases a small building is erected with a model
home prior to construction of the building.
Chair Davis opened the public hearing.
Page 18
Approved
Planning Commission Minutes
February 2, 2011
Page 3
Chair Davis introduced Craig Schultz, 135 Quaker Lane N. 1&. Schultz asked if exterior
signage, such as signage directing clients to a location, would be allowed on the weekends.
Chair Davis closed the public hearing.
Senior Planner Darling said any small service business that operates within a senior residential
development would operate solely to serve the residents in the building. No advertising outside
the building directing clients from the street to the building would be allowed. The building
itself would have the same signage an apartment could have, which is a 32 -square foot,
freestanding sign and a leasing sign. Senior Planner Darling acknowledged that signs are placed
on weekends when there is less staff enforcement.
Commissioner Nelson said adding these classifications in this zoning district applies to one
location we know of, and potentially another. He said the ramifications are not great, and it
makes sense to him as it gives the city some flexibility in development, especially in these times
when we need to be more creative. Commissioner Nelson said he likes the concept of a gateway
to the city, and it bodes well for the city to have these kinds of developments. He said he would
be voting in favor.
Commissioner Robinson said he concurs with Commissioner Nelson in that the effect would be
limited in scope. He said be supports the requirement to be near two main roadways.
Commissioner Robinson said this proposal is for an unused area, and he said he will support this.
MOTION by Commissioner Anderson, seconded by Commissioner Kobussen, to approve the
request by the City of Plymouth for the addition of 1) LA -5 land use classification to the
Plymouth Comprehensive Plan and 2) complementary zoning district to the Plymouth Zoning
Ordinance.
Chair Davis said he supports this as a well -thought out idea, and added this is a gateway project
for a key location in the city. Chair Davis said this is an opportunity to open up the city to some
sites that are having a hard time developing. He said it is a good idea and will support it.
Roll Call Vote. 7 Ayes. MOTION approved unanimously.
B. QUEST DEVELOPMENT (2010086)
Chair Davis introduced the request by Quest Development for rezoning and a PUD general plan
for a 157 -unit apartment building at the southwest quadrant of Highways 169 and 55.
Senior Planner Darling gave an overview of the staff report.
Commissioner Petrash asked how the 2.5 parking spaces per unit was determined.
Senior Planner Darling said the zoning ordinance was reviewed in mid -90's based on concerns
with the standard of 2 parking spaces per unit. She said the issue occurred with a parking
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complex that was allowing the residents to park boats and motor homes. Based on that
information, the city adopted the 2.5 space per unit, but allowed some flexibility in apartment
complexes to provide less than 2.5 with an interim use permit. She said that all apartments
constructed since have been closer to the 2 spaces per unit with the condition that recreational
vehicles are not allowed on site, or that offsite parking be provided as necessary to meet the
requirements.
Commissioner Petrash asked if we are considering changing the parking requirement to a more
realistic number.
Senior Planner Darling said that will be reviewed this summer, as there is no way to do accurate
parking counts due to snow. Planning Manager Senness added that staff is recommending a
change to 2 spaces per unit later in the agenda, and it will be reviewed later as to whether it
should be lowered more than that.
Commissioner Anderson asked about the consistency, type and color of the materials to be used
on the exterior of the building.
Senior Planner Darling said the materials would be Hardi Board with a spray texture similar to
stucco, brick veneer and metal panels around the entry.
Commissioner Anderson asked about the evergreen height and caliper inch requirement for the
trees.
Senior Planner Darling said a 2.5 -inch caliper tree would be considered as an over -story tree;
coniferous trees would be 6 -foot in height at planting.
Commissioner Anderson asked if staff considered increasing the size of any of these trees since
there would be fewer trees planted than required. He said the rendering shows trees 30 years out
but we know they won't look like that at planting.
Senior Planner Darling said that increasing tree size was not suggested to the applicant.
Commissioner Oakley asked if it has been determined that Nathan Lane has capacity for any
additional traffic generated, and asked if the city has studied or will study how the signal to the
west of the apartment building would function.
City Engineer Moberg said in 1998 the property was guided for office, and the determination
was made that the proposed use of an extended stay hotel would generate less traffic and there
was no need for a full traffic study. He said some analysis done by a consultant indicated
everything would function reasonably well. City Engineer Moberg said traffic generation for
this application would be comparable to a hotel, so he did not think an in-depth traffic study was
needed. City Engineer Moberg said the signal has not been looked at specifically.
Commissioner Oakley asked if the county does a periodic signal analysis at Highway 55.
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City Engineer Moberg stated that MnDOT would have ownership for that signal.
Commissioner Oakley noted that the north entrance on Nathan Lane from the apartment building
ends up creating an offset intersection whereby westbound traffic would be shining their lights
into exiting vehicles from the apartment. Commissioner Oakley asked if alternatives were
discussed with the applicant.
Senior Planner Darling said this driveway proposal is very similar to previous proposals on the
site, so the headlight issue was not discussed.
City Engineer Moberg added that parking is tight and the center drive has parking on both sides.
He said shifting the drive aisle to better line up with the intersection would compromise or lose
too many parking sites.
Commissioner Oakley said the proposed windows are flush to the exterior wall for six floors of
height, and he questioned if full casement around the windows was needed. He asked if
alternatives were considered to put a head on each window to break up the wall and to reduce
potential for rainwater damage to walls.
Commissioner Kobussen asked what heat and air conditioning will be utilized, and would there
be rooftop units. Commissioner Kobussen asked about the partial green roof.
Senior Planner Darling said the heating and cooling system would be Magic-Paks which would
be installed in each unit; there would be no visible rooftop units. She said the green roof is
above the parking level and is landscaped on either side of the drive aisle.
Commissioner Oakley asked if a cash fee in lieu of compliance is required if the applicant does
not meet the tree standards.
Senior Planner Darling said there is some flexibility with a PUD and a cash fee was not asked
for in this situation because the applicant is proposing what is adequate for this site. She added
the applicant is asking for TIF and other public financing.
Commissioner Kobussen asked how the garages would be ventilated to remove CO2 and carbon
monoxide.
Chair Davis introduced the applicant, Jim Waters, Quest Development, who said he concurred
with the staff report. He reviewed the history of this difficult but prominent site which has
hosted a vegetable market, a hotel, and a condo project. Mr. Waters said the city council has
indicated they would like to see a landmark building on this site. He said looking at the larger
neighborhood, he feels the density is appropriate as it is a densely developed area. Mr. Waters
explained that some of the larger trees displayed are existing trees; they would do their
landscaping closer to the building. Mr. Waters concluded that this would be an excellent
opportunity for the City of Plymouth, and it provides another type of housing opportunity.
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Commissioner Anderson asked for the Magic -Pak definition, and if it would be visible under the
window from the exterior.
Mr. Waters explained the Magic -Pak is inside the unit - not what you see in a motel underneath
the window. There would a room built for it adjacent to the exterior wall where it gets its air
exchange. He said it acts like your home furnace and air conditioning with individual ducting
systems in each unit whereby each tenant has control over their climate. Mr. Waters said it is
accessible from the inside only.
Chair Davis asked about basement and first floor parking. He asked if there is only one access
per level.
Mr. Waters said the site falls off to the south which allows entering on one level on the south
side and entering at a higher level on the east side for two access points.
Commissioner Oakley discussed the rain water infiltration system in the north parking lot, and
assumed soil borings would indicate heavy clay. He asked if the surface drainage would be
handled independently of that rain water infiltration system, given the expectation it will freeze
every winter.
Mr. Waters introduced John Donovan, Loucks and Associates, who said the system in the north
parking lot is a rain water harvesting system intending water to stay in the chambers and be used
for irrigating the green space. Mr. Donovan said on the south side there is an infiltration system
with engineered soil four feet under the surface at the infiltration basin. He said drain tile would
be provided and this system would meet the city volume reduction requirements. Mr. Donovan
added this would operate more as a filtration, rather than an infiltration system.
Commissioner Kobussen asked how the garages would be ventilated and how the common areas
would be heated and cooled.
Mr. Waters said the mechanical system has not yet been designed.
Paul Meyer, 15650 36"' Avenue N. said he is the architect for this project and explained that the
exterior materials being used are cement -board siding for the base material, which is a stable
product with a long life. He said rather than a paint finish which poses a maintenance problem
due to the height of the proposed building, an acrylic coating would be sprayed on the cement
board. Mr. Meyer said this would be more durable and provides a stucco texture over the cement
board siding. He said these two materials would be used to their maximum benefit, and added
they offer the same variety of color options as stucco. Mr. Meyer explained the mature trees
indicated are existing, and the balance of the landscaping would be mixed in. Mr. Meyer said the
Magic -Pak is a packaged heating and air conditioning unit which has a condenser for air
conditioning and a heating element for heating. He said the only exposure is a grill for fresh air
which is required. Mr. Meyer said the Marriott Courtyard at I-494 and Highway 55 has these
units, and the impact of the small gall on the finished exterior is minimal. He added that it is a
benefit for each unit to have its own control. Mr. Meyer stated the common areas would be
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served by a relatively small rooftop unit which would be screened or colored to match. He said
there would be an exhaust or an intake louver on each end of the garages. He said the venting
for the garages does not need to be continuous, but tied to a co -sensor which monitors the carbon
monoxide threshold. Mr. Meyer said the opening and closing of garage doors handles most
ventilation. Mr. Meyer said there is a nice mix of existing mature trees and over 100 bush and
perennial plantings at the pedestrian and plaza level, courtyard, and entrance. He said the
ordinance deals only with tree counts but there is a multitude of landscaping included in the plan.
Mr. Meyer said for weather proofmg, the windows would not be totally recessed. He explained
you want to maintain the nailing phalange around the perimeter rather than pushing it in the
framed opening. He explained the recessing of the window causes some of the issues with
weather -ability. Mr. Meyer said they are looking for a straight drainage plane and have the
window phalange be in that drainage plane. Mr. Meyer noted the building has a lot of in and
outs with deck recesses, the articulation at the front entry and a two -foot jog for each wing. Mr.
Meyer said he believes they are meeting the intent of the ordinance.
Commissioner Anderson asked about the cement board and spray on combo, and asked if this
has been used on other buildings in the area. He questioned how it would hold up, and if this is a
new concept of spraying stucco on cement board.
Mr. Meyer said the cement board siding is relatively new in the U.S. and in this region, but is
used tremendously internationally. He said it is an amazing stable material with the spray finish
bonding to the cement board. Mr. Meyer stated they think it's a good combination and are not in
the habit of doing things that are not long term. Mr. Meyer added the building is defined with a
strong base of masonry and conventional type residential materials above the base. He said the
entry feature has metal panels, adding a mix of materials.
Chair Davis asked about the proposed workforce housing.
Mr. Waters said this is designed to serve people who are earning 60% of median household
income. He said the ratio is to serve 40% at the 60% level which translates to 64 of the 157
units.
Chair Davis asked if the units are designated as work force housing forever or if the 64 units
float around.
Mr. Waters said they do float, and are not designated. He said all one bedroom units will look
the same.
Chau Davis asked if an applicant who applies is qualified, would get the reduced rate and if this
is a state program or your program.
Mr. Waters said the qualifications are set as they have asked for help in redeveloping the site and
have looked at other financing which would impose restrictions. Mr. Waters said these
restrictions may be in place for a minimum of 15 years, and would probably be in place for 30
years.
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Chair Davis opened the public hearing.
Chair Davis introduced Karen Chandler, 135 Quaker Lane N. Ms. Chandler said the proposed
building is on the walking route which is a trail lots of people use. Ms. Chandler clarified that
she is not speaking for or against the proposal. Her concern is about traffic at Quaker Lane on to
Old County Road 15 as there is a blind turn, especially turning left. Ms. Chandler recalled the
traffic study in 1998 and wonders if it should be revisited as this is a 157 -unit project versus the
condominium project with a smaller number of units. Ms. Chandler said traffic back-ups occur
around 5:30 p.m. at the signal at Revere Lane to go west on Old County Road 15. She said there
might be a need for a signal analysis by MnDOT. Ms. Chandler questioned the safety of the
diagonal pedestrian crosswalk as there is a new lane of traffic created and many people in the
area have different abilities with some in wheelchairs. She suggested an analysis of stop signs at
the intersection and a stop sign for her street. Ms. Chandler asked about lighting and hoped it
would not face up in the sky. She asked about the storm water management as there were
inconsistencies in the applicant's report in terms of impervious areas. Ms. Chandler asked about
TIF financing.
Chair Davis introduced Rob Bader, Steven Scott Management and Bader Development, owners
of Creekside Apartments which are located adjacent. Mr. Bader said they support this project.
He said they just completed a building of similar size in St. Louis Park and used similar elements
such as the Hardi Board and Magic-Paks, which they feel are durable and have had success with.
Mr. Bader said they are content with 1.75 parking spaces per unit.
City Engineer Moberg said we recognize that the intersection of Highway 55 and Revere Lane is
less than desirable. There is not enough physical space between County Road 15 and
Highway 55 to create an intersection that would have adequate storage lengths and queuing
lengths. He said MnDOT's primary focus is to get as much traffic through as possible and if
traffic has to queue on a side street, that is what they would look at. The distance from the
Quaker Lane intersection to the stop sign for westbound traffic at Revere Lane is approximately
150 feet. City Engineer Moberg said he felt that putting in an all -way stop at Quaker Lane
would have an adverse impact on the frontage road as there would be a risk of people ignoring
the stop signs. He said he anticipates a stop sign would be located on the driveway for vehicles
exiting the site, and there would be a two-way roadway with a side leg that has a stop control.
He did not know that a stop sign on Nathan and the frontage road would resolve any traffic issue.
City Engineer Moberg said while this may not be best location for the crosswalk, it is better than
rotating the crosswalk on the south side of the driveway where vehicles are navigating a turn.
Planning Manager Senness addressed the lighting question and stated there would be no up
lighting, and that the parking lots and building would be subject to stringent regulations under
the city's lighting ordinance.
Senior Planner Darling said there is a condition on Page 2 that requires the applicant to amend
the water resources plan to remove the .12 acre feet increase in volume consistent with non -
degradation requirements. Staff suggested adding 2-4 inches of compost in the wetland buffer as
a means of meeting the requirement.
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City Engineer Moberg said the applicant's narrative states there is .9 acres of impervious surface
which is the foundation for the hotel, and the amount of impervious surface would increase to 1.7
acres. City Engineer Moberg said the storm water ponding proposed would be sized to capture
that increase in the runoff as a result of the increase in impervious surface. City Engineer
Moberg said based on storm water calculations they are a little short in managing the storm water
on site, so some soil amendment work would be required around the pond to help retain water on
site so it doesn't run off as quickly.
City Engineer Moberg said the trip generation for an apartment building is 3-6 trips per day per
unit. City Engineer Moberg noted that in a 3-10 floor apartment building the hip generation is
less than for a two-story building, He said this occurs because the demographics tend to be
different. Based on 3-6 trips per unit, there would be 450 — 950 trips per day, which is similar to
the trip generation for the previously proposed hotel. City Engineer Moberg said the uses are
different, but trip generation remained virtually the same. City Engineer Moberg added that
access to Highway 169 can occur from Nathan Lane or Shelard Parkway. He explained that if
trips split 50150 north and south for the morning peak, anticipating 60-65 vehicles per hour, the
result would be 30-32 vehicles each way which would not have a significant impact. City
Engineer Moberg said the current volumes on Nathan Lane are 3,500 — 3,800 vehicles per day.
He said the proposal could be a 25% increase overall, but with the distribution, we would not see
the magnitude of the traffic going to Revere Lane.
Planning Manager Senness discussed the TIF and said Mr. Waters has requested $2.5 million to
assist with development of 64 affordable units and soil correction.
Chair Davis closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Anderson emphasized that an application has to meet storm water requirements.
City Engineer Moberg said that is correct.
Commissioner Anderson asked if staff is comfortable that the 64 affordable units will be around
at least 15 years and that this is not a gimmick to put one party in for a year and then roll it over
for a higher price.
Senior Planner Darling stated that with the public funding being requested, affordable units are
for a prescribed amount of time. Senior Planner Darling said staff is satisfied this is consistent
with the comprehensive plan.
Commissioner Anderson asked for more definition of "equipment storage" stored in interior or
exterior parking spaces.
Senior Planner Darling stated that recreational equipment is a defined term in the ordinance, e.g.
fish houses are not allowed.
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Commissioner Anderson said he likes most of what he is seeing with this application, such as the
site pian and affordable housing. He said he does not have a problem not wrapping windows
with this architectural style. Commissioner Anderson said being a gateway corner he does have
concerns that have not been sufficiently addressed, such as the exterior material. While familiar
with Hardieplank and its success on the exterior of buildings, he questioned the combination
proposed. Commissioner Anderson said in his experience with presentations like this,
developers would bring product examples for review of thickness, how easily dented, etc.
Commissioner Anderson said how this looks is representative of the city, and they may be
headed down the right path, but he needs to be convinced in terms of specifications on materials,
viewing it, and color. Commissioner Anderson said a condition could be added to require that
the grills need to match the exterior in color and texture because if not matched it could be a
major eyesore. Commissioner Anderson said his traffic concerns could perhaps be satisfied with
a copy of the traffic report done previously. Commissioner Anderson said he is concerned about
the landscaping size. He noted staff did require an increase in the size of some arborvitae along
Highway 55, but questioned if landscaping needs to be increased from 2.5" to a 4" caliper to
make up for the fact that this site just isn't big enough. Commissioner Anderson concurred that
this is a difficult site to work with and suggested tabling for additional information.
Commissioner Anderson said he would like to see this project proceed because they are headed
in the right direction for what Plymouth needs at this site.
Commissioner Petrash said he has seen enough to know it's a good project
MOTION by Commissioner Petrash, seconded by Commissioner Nelson, to approve the request
by Quest Development for rezoning and a PUD general plan for a 157 -unit apartment building
on the southwest quadrant of Highways 169 and 55.
Commissioner Nelson displayed a picture of the proposal and said it is a beautiful structure and
he hopes it is what we end up with. He said he shares some of Commissioner Anderson's
concerns, but is not concerned about materials as they will be reviewed during .permitting.
Commissioner Nelson said based on experience, he is concerned about the Nathan Lane
intersection. He said it is not a pleasant corner as it is not well defined nor well lit, and there is a
lot of traffic on both driveways. He said it could be a little messy, and the trail will be used by
tenants from the apartment building. Commissioner Nelson said he would like to see more
consideration taken on that corner. Commissioner Nelson said the traffic at Revere Lane is an
issue, but understands there would be no change by MnDOT. Commissioner Nelson suggested
some lighting, stop, yield or slow down signs, or better definition of the road would be
appropriate. Commissioner Nelson said he would be proud to be a resident with this as one of
our gateways and would support the request.
Commissioner Oakley added to Commissioner Nelson's comments and said he thinks this is a
good proposal with the potential to be an exceptional proposal. Commissioner Oakley concurred
with City Engineer Moberg that there is not a lot that can be done with the existing intersection
at Revere Lane. He said he would have liked to have seen some of that traffic information
presented so we know it has been looked at. Commissioner Oakley said the corner of Nathan
Lane and Old County Road 15 can be improved. He said he feels strongly that the north
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entrance can be aligned with County Road 15 and that the crosswalk can go to the south of the
north entrance with a signage plan for County Road 15 to indicate pedestrian crossings. If it
comes down to losing 3-4 parking spots in order to move that entrance to the north,
Commissioner Oakley said he would support that.
Commissioner Anderson noted that Commissioners Oakley's and Nelson's comments indicate
concerns similar to his.
Motion to table by Commissioner Anderson, seconded by Chair Davis, the request by Quest
Development for rezoning and a PUD general plan for a 157 -unit apartment building on the
southwest quadrant of Highways 169 and 55 in order to obtain more information on exterior
materials, grills, traffic and landscaping.
Chair Davis said he concurred with Commissioner Anderson's concerns, and Commissioner
Nelson's and Commissioner Oakley's statements support requesting more information.
There was discussion regarding the proposed grills and viewing the grills on the Marriott Hotel
to see how they are aging. Commissioner Anderson asked for a list of buildings who have
similar exteriors as the proposal.
Chair Davis said it is a good looking building proposed - but it is a big building and we don't
want to do it wrong.
Roll Call Vote to table. 6 Ayes. MOTION approved. Commissioner Petrash voted nay.
C. GONYEA COMPANY (2010096)
Chair Davis introduced the request by Gonyea Company to change the sewer system and sewer
staging for properties south and west of Vicksburg Lane and County Road 47.
Planning Manager Senness said that the applicant has requested additional time to add two
properties to their request. She said staff is recommending this item be continued.
Chair Davis opened the public hearing.
Chair Davis said this item will be continued to the February 16, 2011 meeting.
MOTION by Commissioner Anderson, seconded by Commissioner Kobussen, to continue the
public hearing on the request by Gonyea Company to change the sewer system and sewer staging
for properties south and west of Vicksburg Lane and County Road 47 to the February 16, 2011
Planning Commission meeting. Vote. 7 Ayes. MOTION approved.
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D. CITY OF PLYMOUTH (2010070)
Chair Davis introduced the request by the City of Plymouth for the annual update to the zoning
ordinance and city code.
Senior Planner Drill gave an overview of the staff report.
Chair Davis opened and closed the public hearing, as there was no one present to speak on the
item.
Commissioner Kobussen asked why pawn shops were excluded from the proposed new
commercial uses to be called "retail operations Iess than 3,000 square feet".
Senior Planner Drill said pawn shops were specifically excluded because they are allowed in
only one commercial district and are already regulated as a use.
Commissioner Petrash said the illustrations in the signage provisions are fantastic, and will help
to clarify what is allowed.
Planning Manager Senness commended Senior Planner Darling for her work on the illustrations.
Commissioner Oakley referenced the reduction in parking spaces for apartments, and asked if
staff considered tying required parking to number of bedrooms.
Senior Planner Drill said there would be a review of parking spaces for apartments this summer,
and it would include an analysis of the overall size of a complex as well as a breakdown of 1, 2,
and 3 -bedroom units within a building.
Commissioner Nelson asked if allowing an increase to the impervious surface regulations with a
conditional use permit for certain townhome developments would open the door to requests from
others.
Senior Planner Drill said there are a number of unique things in the townhome example provided
that justify the conditional use permit process. He said others may ask for a conditional use
permit but the city is on good ground to point out the differences between that situation and uses
such as single family homes.
Planning Manager Senness added that in a single family home you get credit for all of your lot
but in the townhome example cited, credit is given only for the unit lot.
Commissioner Anderson asked about repealing the fence regulations.
Senior Planner Drill said fences are already addressed in the zoning ordinance, so they should be
repealed from the city code.
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MOTION by Commissioner Nelson, seconded by Commissioner Oakley, to approve the request
by the City of Plymouth for the annual update to the zoning ordinance and city code. Roll Call
Vote. 7 Ayes. MOTION approved unanimously.
8. NEW BUSINESS
A. QUEST DEVELOPMENT
Chair Davis introduced Housing Manager Jim Barnes who gave a review of the tax increment
financing program and plan for the apartment building to be located in the southwest quadrant of
Highways 169 and 55 for compliance with the Plymouth Comprehensive Plan.
Commissioner Anderson asked how tax increment financing (TIF) works.
Housing Manager Barnes explained that TIF is a tool allowed under state statute to create a
district to capture new taxes from new development or redevelopment. He said the existing base
tax is not captured; the new taxes are captured and can be paid out on a "pay as you go" basis or
the city can issue bonds. The city and HRA prefer the "pay as you go" method because risk is on
the developer and if the value is not there, the city is not obligated to make payments. Housing
Manager Barnes said $2.5 million is being requested for this development over the next 25 years.
Manager Barnes said after 25 years, or if values are higher and we pay off the obligation earlier,
all the taxes go back to the jurisdiction.
Chair Davis asked how the money changes hands.
Housing Manager Barnes said the applicant pays taxes like any other business at the stated value
and the county distributes to the taxing jurisdictions. Housing Manager Barnes said when a
parcel is identified as part of a TIF district, the portion of new taxes only is redistributed back to
the city. The city will put 90% toward the note and 10% is retained for administrative costs.
Commissioner Nelson asked how many TIF districts the city has.
Housing Manager Barnes said the HRA has three and the city has four for a total of seven TIF
districts.
Commissioner Nelson asked if it is a goal of the city to expand their TIF districts, or is it done on
a case by case basis.
Housing Manager Barnes responded these are done on a case by case basis. He said the City
Council or HRA views the creating of a TIF district as a leveling of the playing field for sites
that have challenging conditions and there may be a public benefit to be gained by creating a TIF
district. He said there are many types of TIF districts that could be set up such as redevelopment,
housing, economic development, soil districts, and all have different rules and regulations.
Housing Manager Barnes said the last report by our financial advisors in 2009 on our TIF
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districts indicate we are relatively low in comparison to other cities in use of tax increment
financing.
MOTION by Commissioner Anderson, seconded by Commissioner Petrash, to approve the
resolution finding the tax increment financing program and plan for the apartment building to be
located in the southwest quadrant of Highways 169 and 55 is consistent with the Plymouth
Comprehensive Plan. Vote. 7 Ayes. MOTION approved.
B. ACCEPT 2010 ANNUAL REPORT AND 2011 WORK PROGRAM
Planning Manager Senness gave an overview of the 2010 annual report and the 2011 work
program.
Commissioner Anderson said a study of parking spaces at apartment complexes should be added
to the work program.
Planning Manager Senness answered affirmatively.
MOTION by Commissioner Kobussen, seconded by Commissioner Robinson, to forward the
amended work plan and annual report to the City Council. Vote. 7 Ayes. MOTION approved.
C. ELECTION OF PLANNING COMMISSION CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR
FOR 2011
MOTION by Commissioner Nelson, seconded by Commissioner Petrash, to elect Jim Davis to
position of the Chair of the 2011 Planning Commission. Roll Call Vote. 7 Ayes. MOTION
approved unanimously.
MOTION by Commissioner Nelson, seconded by .Commissioner Robinson, to elect Marc
Anderson to the position of Vice Chair of the 2011 Planning Commission. Roll Call Vote. 7
Ayes. MOTION approved unanimously.
D. APPOINTMENT OF PLANNING COMMISSIONER TO SERVE AS LIAISON
TO THE PARK AND RECREATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Commissioner Kobussen offered to continue as the liaison to the Park and Recreation Advisory
Committee as he has done for the last two years.
MOTION by Commissioner Nelson, seconded by Commissioner Anderson, to appoint
Commissioner Dick Kobussen as liaison to the Park and Recreation Advisory Committee. Roll
Call Vote. 7 Ayes. MOTION approved unanimously.
9. ADJOURNMENT
MOTION by Chair Davis, without objection, to adjourn the meeting at 9:45 p.m.
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City of Plymouth
Best Management Practices Inspection Policy
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to provide direction and guidance for inspection and maintenance of
the various Best Management Practices (BMPs) within the City of Plymouth. Many of the
BMPs are subject to maintenance agreements between the City and property owner(s). BMPs
include, but are not limited to, rain gardens, sump manholes, underground storm detention
systems, and pervious pavement. This policy shall guide the establishment of a Best
Management Practices Inspection Program to ensure that BMPs are performing according to
approved plans.
Funding/Cost of Maintenance Activities
All costs for the administration of the Best Management Practices Inspection Program shall be
paid for from the City's Water Resources Fund. The main source for this fund is the Surface
Water Utility Fee. The owners of the subject property or its then current owner shall be solely
responsible for the inspection and maintenance of the BMP agreement and shall bear all costs of
such activities. If the current owner does not undertake necessary inspections and/or
maintenance within 30 days of notification by the City, the City may undertake such activities,
but the costs reasonably incurred by the City for performing such activities shall be reimbursed
to the City by the owners of said property.
Property Owner(s) Responsibility for Maintenance of BMP Agreements
The property owner(s) shall be responsible for all maintenance of BMPs. The level of
maintenance for BMPs shall vary based on the type of BMP and the associated general
requirements for each type.
Maintenance of underground storm detention systems shall mean the annual inspection and
certification by a professional engineer that the Detention System is functioning in accordance
with the approved plans.
Frequency
A. Debris Cleanout I Annually
B. Hydrocarbon Build-up I Annually
- Eliminate hydrocarbon oil and grease build-up.
C. Parking lot sweeping using a vacuum sweeper I Spring and Fall
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Maintenance of rain gardens shall require the annual inspection and certification by a
professional engineer, landscape architect, or approved professional that the structural BMP is
functioning in accordance with the approved plans.
Rain Garden 1l�Ia�ntenance
Frequency,
A. Debris Cleanout
Monthly
B. Vegetation
Annually
- Maintain at least 80% surface area coverage of
plants approved per plan.
- Removal of undesirable woody plants.
- Removal of invasive plants.
- Removal of dried, dead, diseased vegetation.
- Re -mulch void areas.
C. Hydrocarbon Build-up
Monthly
- Eliminate hydrocarbon oil and grease build-up.
D. Outlet and Overflow Spillway
Annually
- Correct any erosion.
- Remove any sediment build-up or blockage.
E. Parking lot sweeping using a vacuum sweeper.
Spring and Fall
Maintenance of parking lots (impervious or pervious) shall mean the sweeping and clearing of
debris in the spring and fall of each year. A vacuum sweeper must be used for all sweeping
activities.
Parking Lot Maintenance Frequency
Parking lot sweeping using a vacuum sweeper. Spring and Fall
Page 32
Maintenance of sump manholes shall mean the periodic cleaning of the silt buildup in the sump
manholes as necessary to maintain the Water Quality Treatment Capacity and to maintain the
proper treatment function of the sump manholes,
. Sump Manhole Maintenance ' Frequency
Cleaning silt build-up in sump manholes Annually
Establishment of BMP Inspection Program
The establishment of an inspection program for BMPs will include tracking locations of all
BMPs that are tied to maintenance agreements, annual letters requesting submittal of
certification, follow up site inspections (if necessary), and enforcement of any maintenance
issues. Maintenance agreements will be linked to developments using Geographic Information
Systems (GIS) software. The use of GIS will provide a convenient means to track the locations
of BMPs, link maintenance agreements to properties, and access photos and plans of the BMPs.
A spreadsheet will be created to track developments and annual certification submittals. Letters
will be sent out in May of each year reminding the responsible parties of their obligation to
submit certification, with a submittal deadline of September. City Staff may inspect BMP sites
periodically to verify submitted certifications. In the event that annual certification submittals
are not received or maintenance work is needed, City Staff will notify property owner(s) of
required actions. The property owner(s) will have 30 days to comply with City requests. Failure
to comply with City requests may result in the City undertaking inspection and/or maintenance
activities with any incurred costs being the sole responsibility of the property owner(s).
BMPs Not Covered by Maintenance Agreements
The City of Plymouth is responsible for several sump manhole structures. City staff shall
inspect and clean( if necessary) sump manholes on an annual basis and document all
maintenance work related to the structures.
Rain gardens that are constructed as part of a street reconstruction project are subject to
different maintenance requirements. The contractor shall be responsible for maintenance work
and care for plants installed during the plant establishment period. The Plant Establishment
Period shall be two calendar years from date of final job acceptance. During the Plant
Establishment Period the property owner agrees to water the rain garden, as necessary. Beyond
the Plant Establishment Period, the property owner agrees to water, weed, mulch and replace
Page 33
plants as necessary. The City hires contractors to provide additional maintenance for the rain
gardens beyond the Plant Establishment Period. Inspections of rain gardens are accomplished
through the contracted maintenance activities.
Street Reconstruction Rain`Garden' Wintenaince - Contractor Responsibilities'
A. Keeping plants in a healthy growing condition.
B. Repairing or replacing as necessary, mulch and soil amendment.
C. Remove all weed growth in and three feet around mulched areas
D. Furnishing and installing replacement plants as needed, including
new mulch and planting soil
Pond Maintenance and Inspection Policy
The City of Plymouth Municipal Separate Storm Sewer (MS4) Permit requires the City to
inspect 20% of the ponds in Plymouth each year. Water features included in the requirement
include naturally -occurring ponds and wetlands, stormwater holding ponds, and water quality
ponds. City Staff are responsible for all inspections. Inspections include identifying any issues
that may require maintenance, field verification of outlets and outfalls, and photo documentation.
In 2005 the City of Plymouth Pond Maintenance Policy was adopted. The policy provides
details for finding and budgeting for administration and operation of the program, maintenance
priorities, and pond maintenance agreements (see City of Plymouth Pond Maintenance Policy for
more details).
Page 34
VA City of
qP Plymouth Memo
Date: February 15, 2011
To: Laurie Ahrens, City Manager
From: Cal Portner, Administrative Services Director
Subject: Ehlers Debt Comparison
We asked Ehlers to pull some information together regarding our debt per capita in relation to
peer cities. The information will be presented in the upcoming Plymouth News Financial Extra.
Attached is a spreadsheet of the information. The best comparison is the Gross Debt per
Capita. Gross debt includes all of the debt including general obligation, TIF and other fluids. Of
the I I cities, we have the fourth lowest amount of gross debt behind Eden Prairie, Eagan, and
Minnetonka. When Gross Debt Per Capita is considered, we are the third lowest behind Eagan
and Minnetonka.
Moody's uses Net Debt per Capita in their comparison of cities. Moody's looks at the impact on
the property taxpayer and tax base, and in doing so, excludes debt paid by other funds, such as
water systems.
Jon North of Ehlers indicated he'd be happy to do a full peer comparison if the Council so
chooses.
Page 3 5
PLYMOUTH - 2011 Debt Comparisons to Peer Group
Brooklyn St. Louis
Apple Valley Bloomington Park Eagan Eden Prairie Edina. Lakeville Maple Grove Minnetonka Plymouth Park
Estimates (1)
49,376
84,701
75,306
65,933 -
62,536
49,491
55,772
62,660
51,451
71,930
46,293
G® Rev
1,255,000
455,000
23,245,000
1,520,000
21,780,000
7,755,000
6,795,000
7,840,000
9,120,000
G® Tait
20,425,000
10,860,000.
13,745,000
12,030,000
23,600,000
31,415,000
58,725,000
26,360,000
9,120,000
12,915,000
15,845,000
G® TIF
1,050,000
13,235,000
7,205,000
3,320,000
3,035,000
13,800,000
10,995,000
G® Rev & Tax
1,750,000
5,935,000
GO Housing
2,295,000
3,665,000
3,105,000
GO Spec Assess
14,345,000
44,660,000
5,665,000
5,160,000
7,940,000
16,500,000
9,560,000
81,305,000
GO State Aid
3,895,000
1,980,000
4,105,000
13,860,000
1,980,000
Annual Appropriation
622,800
2,245,000
3,795,000
13,370,000
1,985,000
Ice Arena Revenue
530,000
1,785,000
940,000
10,595,000
TIF Revenue
7,970,000
Liquor Revenue
3,180,000
3,985,000
Rents from Isle
3,100,000
Gross Debt (2)
48,402,800
69,210,000
63,840,000
23,755,000
35,335,000
88,135,000
101,745,000
117,715,000
17,895,000
38,220,000
45,000,000
Gross Debt I Capita
980
817
848
360
565
1,781
1,824
1,879
348
531
. 972
Net Debt
36,442,800
68,755,000
36,830,000
17,190,000
35,335,000
66,355,000
73,305,000
109,960,000
9,120,000
30,380,000
35,880,000
Net Debt I Capita
738
812
489
261
565
1,341
1,314
1,755
177
422
775
(1) State Demographer-
http://www.demography.state.mn.us/estimates.html
(2) From most recent official statements
Page 36
Page 37
CITY OF PLYMOUTH
3400 PLYMOUTH BOULEVARD, PLYMOUTH, MN 55447
DATE: February 15, 2011
TO: Kelli Slavik, Mayor
FROM: Derek Asche, Water Resources Manager
SUBJECT: Environmental Quality Committee elections
On Februrary 9, 2011 the Environmental Quality Committee (E QC) elected Ms. Kathy
Osborne (Ward 1) as Chair and Mr. Ken Zieska (at large) as Vice Chair.
Cc: Doran Cote, Director of Public Works
Bob Moberg, City Engineer
CADocuments and Settings\sengdahl\Local SettingsUemporary ]ntemet
Files\Content.Outlook\OLVB7GAB\chair_vice_chair_approval 2011.docx Page 38
4'
J
DATE: February 14, 2011
TO: Kelli Slavik, Mayor
Laurie Ahrens City Manager
FROM: Diane Evo , Superintendent of Recreation through
Eric Blank,_Director of Parks and Recreation
SUBJECT: Appointment of Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission Chairperson and
Vice Chairperson
Accordingto Section 305.03, Subdivision 3 of the Plymouth City Code, the Chairperson and Vice
Chairperson of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission are appointed by the
Commission from among the members of the Commission, subject to approval by the Mayor.
At their February 10 meeting the Commission selected Ned Carroll as Chairperson and Greg
Anderson as Vice Chairperson for the current term ending January 31, 2012, On behalf of the
Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission, I am requesting that you indicate your approval of
the appointments.
Page 39
Plymouth
Adding Quality to Life
Dear Resident/ Land Owner:
February 18, 2011
Pursuant to the provisions of the Plymouth Zoning Ordinance, this letter is to inform you of a
development application submitted by Hampton Hills Development, LLC, under file no.
2011002. The application requests approval of the following items for a proposed plat to be
called "Hampton Hills P Addition" for the roughly 152 -acre former Hampton Hills Golf site:
1) a rezoning from FRD (future restricted development) and RSF-2 (single family detached 2) to
RSF-3 (single family detached 3); and 2) a preliminary plat to establish 114 single-family lots.
A map showing the general location of the subject property is provided below.
Hennepin County records indicate your property is located within 750 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, March 2, 2011, 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 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., except holidays.
Sincerely,
! ,r
Barbara G. Senness, AICP
Planning Manager
O:/PI an/Wokices/PC/201112011002
3400 Plymouth Blvd @Plymouth; Minnesota 55447-1482 9 %l: 763-509-5000 w4vw.ptymoltth[rin.gov
MM
Page 40
Mr. Jim Calkins
President, Board of Managers
Minnehaha Creek Watershed District
18202 Minnetonka Boulevard
Deephaven, MN 55391
Dear Mr. Calkins,
All of us at the Gleason Lake Association are very appreciative of your commitment in partnering with us
in the five year Curly Leaf Pond Weed study. We will be hearing new information on the four year results
this coming week. So far, it has been a very positive program as far as the specific Curly Leaf Pond Weed
treatment.
We do have another concern. We are aware through the media of the invasion of Zebra Mussels in Lake
Minnetonka. We fear the spread of this invasive into our lake and other lakes in the Twin Cities Area.
Please know that we stand ready to assist your organization in any way possible to prevent the spread of
zebra or other mussels into our or other area lakes.
We do have close control of motor boats entering Gleason as there is only one locked entry. We lack any
control of smaller craft or fishing type boats with their own entry. We have contacted the DNR for signage
for this coming season. We are publishing information on our website and in our news letters.
We understand you may be instigating a program to establish more firm control over the movement of
boats. We stand ready to assist you if this is so. We feel it is vital that controls be in place for the year
2011.
Please keep us posted on your plans and contact us if we may help you in your efforts to prevent the
spread of the damaging mussels.
Sincerely,
The Gleason Lake Board of Directors
Donna Wolstad, President
Page 41
Linda Runbeck
State Representative
District 53A
Anoka and Ramsey Counties
February 2, 2011
Mayor Kelli Slavik
City of Plymouth
3400 Plymouth Blvd
Plymouth, MN 55447-1448
Dear Mayor Slavik,
Minnesota
House of
Representatives
As you may know, the Minnesota Legislature will be examining potential reform for the Local
Government Aid system and fiscal formula. As the Chair of the Property and Local Tax
Division, I am interested in your input on this issue. Your thoughts and ideas are extremely
helpful and greatly appreciated.
During this session we will encounter many tough decisions, but in the face of adversity there is
the potential for exciting conversations for the overall benefit of the people of Minnesota. The
fact that we will be addressing another budget deficit is a difficult reality, but it also allows for
positive opportunities to fine time our government in order to best serve the taxpayers. One
example is that we hope to streamline important processes that currently hinder efficiency. We
also want to create a job friendly climate in Minnesota to allow for job creation.
Over the past decade the Local Government Aid program has undergone many changes in
formula, definition, rules, and exceptions. We are exploring the results of those changes and we
look to improve upon them. One of the focuses of the Property and Local Tax Division is
finding an LGA formula that benefits cities while living within our means. We are intent on
building a better relationship between the state and its cities.
There are many sides to the issue at hand and I want to make sure your voice is heard. I ain
confident that we can work together to achieve our goals. Your input is useful to the discussion
for moving Minnesota forward. I eagerly await your response.
Sincerely,
Linda Runbeck
State Representative
651-296-2907
rep .1 i nd a. runb e ck@h ous e. m n
48 E. Golden Lake Road, Circle Pines, Minnesota 55014 (763) 784-8822
State Office Building,100 Rev Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd St, Paul, Minnesota 55155-1298 651 96-2907
FAX: (651) 296-5378 Email: rep.linda.runbeck@house.mn rdge
February 12, 2011
1030 Garland Lane North
Plymouth, MN 55447-3536
www.gleasonlake.org
Mike Opat, Chairman
Hennepin County Board of Commissioners
2400 Government Center
300 South Sixth Street
Minneapolis, MN 55487-0241
Dear Clerk of the County;
The Gleason Lake Improvement Association is a group of 200 members in existence for 30 years,
We are dedicated to improve and restore the lake and it's watershed.
ussels in Lake
We are extremely concerned
some statewide (or watershed wide) controls need to be put Minnetonka
Prior Lake. Our belief is that
to
prevent the spread of these mussels to the greater Twin City area lakes.
it is our understanding that neither the DNR or the Lake Minnetonka Conservation District are in a
position to install adequate controls. We are in the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District_and
the outbreak is in this watershed. We have had many successful antrols to stow or stop this9nvaslVerams tmussel WD.
We are looking to them to institute c
At this writing, the MCWD is retlcertain ook ng to the Hennhave epin n Cou ty Cthe ommissioners onsupport es to facilitate this communities
effort put
these controls in place. We a g
We at Gleason Lake stand ready to participate with labor or some funding to move firmly on this issue in
2011.
Thank you for your attention to this vital issue.
Sincerely,
rr�
The Gleason Lake Board of Directors
Donna Wolsted, President
cc. Gen Olson, State Senator, Education Committee Chair
Teri Bonoff, State Senator
Connie Doepke, State Representative
Kelli Slavik, Mayor of Plymouth
Laurie Aherns, City Manager of Plymouth
MCWD Board of Managers
Page 43
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Page 44