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Council Information Memorandum 10-21-2011
CITY OF PLYMOUTH rp) COUNCIL INFO MEMO October 21, 2011 UPCOMING MEETINGS AND EVENTS PACT Study Session Agenda 10/26/11................................................................................................ Page 1 HRA Agenda 10/27/11......................................................................................................................... Page 2 League of Minnesota Regional Metro Meeting 11/17/11.................................................................... Page 3 Informational meeting regarding the draft regional transitway guidelines 11/09/11 ........................... Page 4 The Big Green Conference 11/10/11.................................................................................................... Page 6 Notice of Public Information and Scoping Meeting (Transmission Line Hearing 10/26/11) .............. Page 7 October, November and December 2011 Official City Meeting Calendars ...................................... Page 12 Tentative List of Agenda Items for Future City Council Meetings ................................................... Page 15 INFORMATION News Articles, Releases, Publications, Etc ... Crow Wing County Board: Human rights commission dropped, Brainerd Dispatch ....................... Page 16 Saundra Marie Spigner-Bell Obituary, StarTribune.......................................................................... Page 21 MEETING MINUTES Wayzata Communities in Collaboration Council Minutes 10/12/11 ................................................. Page 22 CORRESPONDENCE Letter to HC Transportation Dept., RE: Hennepin County Cost Participation Policy ..................... Page 24 Letter from Resident, RE: PUD Amendment for Plymouth Station Auto Center 2011072 .............. Page 26 Letter to Property Owner, RE: Conditional Use Permit for B&B of Plymouth 2011079 ................. Page 27 PLYMOUTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON TRANSIT WORKING SESSION AGENDA Wednesday, October 26, 2011, 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Bass Lake Room, City Hall 1. 6:00 Approve agenda 2. 6:05 Transit system discussion, evaluation and planning 3. 7:45 Discuss 2012 PACT meeting calendar 4. 7:55 Other business 5. 8:00 Adjourn Next PACT Meeting: November 30, 2011. All meetings held in City Hall. Page 1 MEETING AGENDA PLYMOUTH HOUSING AND REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011 - 7:00 p.m. WHERE: Parkers Lake Room City of Plymouth 3400 Plymouth Boulevard Plymouth, MN 55447 CONSENT AGENDA All items listed on the Consent Agenda 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 August 25, 2011. B. Plymouth Towne Square. Accept Monthly Housing Report. C. Vicksburg Crossing. Accept Monthly Housing Report. 3. NEW BUSINESS A. Vicksburg Crossing. Marketing Report. B. Plymouth Towne Square. Review and approve 2012 budget. C. Vicksburg Crossing. Review and approve 2012 budget. D. HRA Budgets. Review and approve 2012HRA Budgets. E. Potential Redevelopment. Ryerson site (1605 State Highway 169) and adjacent properties. 4. ADJOURNMENT Page 2 METRO MEETING AGENDA Metropolitan Area Management Association Luncheon You most RSVP to attend this luncheon by contacting Laurie Jennings at Laurie@MetroCitiesMN.org or (651) 215-4004. A separate fee of $15 applies. In May 2011, a group of Mayors and Administrators spent a week in Borysbil, Ukraine to work side by side with their local government counterparts on the issues of the day. The Ukrainian delegation came back to Minnesota in September to do the same. Richard Fursman of Brimeyer Fursman and City Administrator Larry Kruse of Albertville will share program highlights, insights, and lessons from the exchange. Saving Money Through "Redesign: "What Will Work forYourCig7 League of Minnesota Cities Staff With less revenue and growing pressure to "do things differently;' it's decision -time for many cities. Communities large and small are considering money -saving ways to deliver public services, includ- ing partnerships, contracting, and cost prevention. At this session, you'll explore with others how different redesign tools might be used to tackle some of the common problems facing metro area cities. 3;15 p. m. Regional Governance and Service Delivery Steve Elkins, Metropolitan Council District 5—Bloomington and Transportation Committee Choir; Wendy Wulff, Metropolitan Council District 16—Lakeville and Environment Committee Vice Chair The Metropolitan Council plays an important role in planning for the growth and development of the metropolitan area and in providing and coordinating a range of public services for the region. Learn about the challenges and opportunities for the metro area from the perspective of two former city officials who now serve on the Metropolitan Council. Remarks Mike Maguire, Eagan Mayor; Betsy Hodges, LMC Vice President; Doug Anderson, Metro Cities President Metro Cities Policy Adoption Meeting Doug Anderson, Metro Cities Piesiden r 6 p. m. Dinner with Guest Speaker Honorable Kath leen Gearin, Ramsey County District Court Chief Judge We are still seeing fallout from the budget stalemate that led to the longest government shutdown in our state's history. Hear from the person who was in the hot seat during this 20 -day ordeal. Judge Gearin will share her perspective on the shutdown, how she approached the complex budget decisions that landed in her courtroom, and her observations on the role of th 'udiciary nc m it ctata'a nolitical system has become more divided. Page 3 METRO CITIES Association of Metropolitan MUnioipalities October 19, 2011 Dear City Official: We are writing to invite you to an informational meeting/open house regarding the draft regional transitway guidelines, and best practices for developing commuter/light rail and bus rapid transit corridors. The meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 9th from 3-5 p.m. at the LMC/Metro Cities office at 145 University Avenue, St. Paul. Met Council representatives will be on hand to provide information on the guidelines. Please see the attached meeting notice and invite. We hope you can join us! Please call 651-215-4000 if you have any questions or would like more information. Sincerely, Laurie Jennings Metro Cites Staff 145 University Ave. W, St. Paul, MN 55103-2044 Phone: 651-215-4000 www.MetroCitiesMN.org Page 4 Learn about the Draft Regional Transitway Guidelines Best practices for developing commuter rail, light rail, and bus rapid transit corridors What: Informational Meeting/Open House When: Wednesday, Nov. 9 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Short presentation at 3:30 p.m. Where: LMC/Metro Cities Building St. Croix Conference Room (first floor) 145 University Avenue, St. Paul Join Metro Cities, local officials, and representatives from the Metropolitan Council to learn more about the draft guidelines, which provide best practices guid- ance for transitway development. This meeting is open to the public. Information about the guidelines will be available. Public comment on the guidelines will also be accepted at the meeting. For more information about the guidelines, visit http://www.metrocouncii.org/planning/transportation/ transitways/index.htm About the Guidelines The Metropolitan Council is lead- ing an effort to create and adopt Regional Transitway Guidelines for the development of corridors where intensive transit invest- ment is planned, as identified in the region's 2030 Transportation Policy Plan (TPP). The guidelines will provide guidance for developing transitways in corridors that will be served by commuter rail, light-rail and bus -rapid transit. Transitways facilitate fast, conve- nient and reliable transit service. Examples in the Twin Cities include Hiawatha LRT, Northstar Commuter Rail and express buses supported by the MnPASS High -Occupancy Toll (HOT) lanes transit advantage on 1-394.Transitways under devel- opment include Central Corridor light-rail transit (LRT), bus -rapid transit (BRT) on the Cedar Avenue and 1-35W South corridors, and LRT on the Southwest Corridor between Minneapolis and Eden Prairie. 390 Robert Street N, St. Paul, Minnesota 55101 TEL: 651-602-1000 /TTY: 651-602-0904 JJA Metropolitan Council .e www.metrocouncil.org dataenter@.m mete.staten.us III d It MOAMail of America 60 East Broadway Bloomington, MN MALL of AMERICA. 55425 Mall of America` & Laskin Hoffman Big Green Conference Crowne Plaza, Bloomington, MN 3 Appletree Square Thursday, November 10, 2011 Where Business and Government meet to discuss current issues, trends and developments in sustainable regulation. Featuring expert speakers and panelists addressing the future of green technology from Xce! Energy, University of St. Phomas, QA Graphics, Sheet Metal Workers Local 10. Westwood Professional Services, International Code Council, MN Jobs Association, ISIS Academy and others. Keynote speaker: Joel Makower, founder of GreenBiz.com and renowned green business guru. Register online at www.biggreenconference.com. M O A ITS Larkin Hoffman TunIAElm PF -SRT STD U S POSTAGE PAYD TATN CITIES _\L1 PERNUT 431940 LAURIE AHRENS CFrY O1~ PLYMOUTH 3400 PLYMOUTH BLVD PLYMOMI MN 55.147-1483 Mall of America & Larkin Hoffman invite you to The Big Green Conference Crowne Plaza, Bloomington, MN Thursday, November 10, 2011 Registration from 7:30-8:30 a.m. Conference Hours from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. MAN. i Martenson >nGtl ■■ a sr t.. 16DLR Group Continuing Real Estate Credit and Continuing Legal E4u tion Credit applied For Page 6 orDEPARTMENT INNESOTA STATE OF MINNESOTA OF QMMERCE Energy Facility Permitting '+tom}•a y Issued: October 12, 2011 NOTICE OF PUBLIC INFORMATION AND SCOPING MEETING In the Matter of the Route Permit Application for the Hollydale 115 kV Transmission Line Project in the Cities of Plymouth and Medina, Hennepin County PUC Docket No. E002/TL-11-152 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Minnesota Department of Commerce Energy Facility Permitting (EFP) staff will conduct a public information and environmental assessment scoping meeting on the joint route permit application by Xcel Energy and Great River Energy to the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (Commission) for the proposed Hollydale 115 kV transmission line project (Figure 1). The purpose of the meeting is to provide information about the project and to identify issues and alternatives to study in the environmental assessment (EA) that will be prepared by EFP staff. PUBLIC INFORMATION AND SCOPING MEETING Wednesday, October 26, 2011 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Best Western Kelly Inn 2705 North Annapolis Lane Plymouth, Minnesota 55441 EFP staff will accept written comments on the scope of the EA until Wednesday, November 9, 2011. Please include PUC Docket No. E002/TL-11-152 on all comments. Comments should be mailed, emailed, or faxed to: Scott Ek State Permit Manager Minnesota Department of Commerce 85 7th Place East, Suite 500 St. Paul, Minnesota, 55101-2198 Fax: 651-296-7588 scoff. ekR,state.mn.us Comments may also be submitted on the Commission's Energy Facility Permittmi website, h_ptt ://energ acilities. ue.state.mn.us/#comment. RECEIVED OCT 14 Zoll The meeting will include a brief presentation of the state's high-voltage transmission line permitting process, the proposed project, and how the public can participate in the permitting process. representatives from Xcel Energy and Great River Energy will be present to answer questions about the proposed project. Members of the public will have an opportunity to ask questions, present comments, and propose issues, impacts, and alternatives to be studied in the EA. Project Description. Xcel Energy and Great River Energy (applicants) propose to rebuild approximately 8 miles of existing 69 kV transmission line to 115 kV, construct up to approximately 0.8 miles of new 115 kV transmission line, construct a new 115 kV substation (Pomerleau Lake Substation), and modify associated transmission facilities located in cities of Medina and Plymouth, Hennepin County, Minnesota. The applicants indicate the project is needed to address electric distribution concerns and to avoid feeder circuit overloads in the Plymouth area distribution delivery system. More specifically, the applicants propose the following for the project: ■ rebuild and follow the existing 69 kV line (8 miles) that exits the existing GRE Medina Substation and runs through the existing Xcel Energy Hollydale Substation to the intersection with an existing GRE 115 kV transmission line located north of Fernbrook Lane and the Canadian Pacific Railway; ■ construct 0.8 miles of new 115 kV transmission line on new right-of-way from the above described existing GRE 115 kV transmission line intersection, which completes the connection of the rebuild line to the proposed new Pomerleau Lake Substation; ■ construct the proposed new Pomerleau Lake Substation just southwest of the intersection of Schmidt Lake Road and Interstate Highway 494; and ■ modify the existing Medina and Hollydale substations to accommodate the proposed 115 kV transmission line rebuild. Proposed modifications to existing substations will be located within existing property boundaries. The proposed structures for the project would be single pole, galvanized steel or weathering steel poles. The height of the new single -circuit poles would range from 70 to 90 feet, while the double -circuit poles would range from 75 to 105 feet. The average span between poles will be about 300 to 500 feet, with a maximum span of approximately 1,200 feet to keep the conductor within existing right-of-way. For the rebuild portion of the project, applicants are requesting a 200 -foot -wide route width within which the 75 -foot right-of-way would be Iocated. Applicants, however, have stated they plan to construct the rebuild portion of the 115 kV transmission line on the current centerline and within the existing right-of-way of the GRE 69 kV line where reasonably possible. The existing 69 kV right-of-way ranges from 70 to 100 feet in width. For the new transmission line route segment, applicants request a 400 -foot -wide route width within which the 75 -foot right-of-way would be located. PUC Docket No. E002/TL-11-152 Page 2 of Page 8 Review Process. Under the Power Plant Siting Act (Minnesota Statute 216E), a route permit from the Commission is required to construct a high-voltage transmission line. A joint route permit application for the project was filed by Xcel Energy and Great River on June 30, 2011. The application was accepted as complete by the Commission on August 25, 2011. EFP staff is responsible for conducting the environmental review for route permit applications submitted to the Commission (Minnesota Rules 7850). Environmental review for a project of this size requires the preparation of an EA. An EA examines the potential human and environmental impacts of a proposed project, alternative routes or route segments, and potential mitigative measures. EFP staff conducts a public information meeting to gather comments and suggestions on the proposed project in order to focus the content or "scope" of the EA. Upon completion of the EA, a public hearing will be held in the project area. The hearing will be presided over by an administrative law judge from the Office of Administrative Hearings. Members of the public will have an opportunity to speak at the hearing, present evidence, ask questions, and submit comments. Notice of the public hearing will be published in local newspapers and mailed to persons who register their names on the project mailing list (see below). Upon completion of the environmental review and hearing process, the record compiled for the route permit application will be presented to the Commission for a final decision. A decision by the Commission on a route permit for the project is anticipated in spring 2012. Eminent Domain. If issued a route permit by the Commission, the applicants may exercise the power of eminent domain to acquire land for this project pursuant to Minnesota Statute 216E.12. Project Mailing List. Persons should contact the state permit manager or public advisor (noted below) or register online at: http://eDerRVfacilities.puc.state.mn.us/#mailin to get their name on the project mailing list. Persons on the mailing list will receive notices of meetings and notices of document availability for this project. If you do not register to be on the mailing list you will not receive correspondence regarding this project after this notice. Project mailing list registration is voluntary and may be done at any time. Project Documents. A more detailed description of the proposed project is contained in the route permit application. An electronic version of this document is available on the Commission's Energy Facility Permitting website: http://evergyfacilities.12uc.state.mn.us/Docket.html?Id=32121. Additionally, documents are available on the Commission's eDockets system: https://ww,,v.edockets.state.nm.us/EFilin.v,/search.isp (enter the year "11" and the number "152") The route permit application is also available at the locations noted below: Plymouth Public Library Long Lake Library 15700 36th Avenue N 1865 Wayzata Boulevard W Plymouth, Minnesota 55446 Long Lake, Minnesota 55365 PUC Docket No. E002fFL.-11-152 Page 3 ©f4 Page 9 Project Contacts. If you have questions or would like further information about this project. please contact: Scott Ek, State Permit Manager 651-296-8813 1-800-657-3794 scott.eW state.mn.us Raymond Kirsch, Public Advisor 651-296-7588 raymond.kirschLdstate.mn.us Information about the project may also be obtained by contacting the applicants.: Joseph Sedarski Marsha Parlow Xcel Energy Services, Inc. Great River Energy 612-330-6435 763-445-5215 ioseph.g.sedarski(axcelenergy.com m arlowcry rener .corn This document can be made available in alternative formats (i.e., large print or audio) by calling 651-296-0391 (voice). Persons with hearing or speech disabilities may call us through Minnesota Relay at 1-800-627-3529 or by dialing 711. PUC Docket No. E0021TL-11-152 Page 4 of 4 Page 10 r iF 7w t 4 � J I 94 .', �'" .,. � '' w'S�, ' //'t,;r'�;'lI + -a =•r.:. ,_ ,:, 4 ,l: .� � r�,���1 1 , �,1 N �� , .. .i�� 4�31.1�. ol PAR hnudiSch",,I[A. ik F'rl . I �. f - r IIS R. I �7F 1 Y r �: f t � 1 i, �N■■i r •' e molith xlstinq Imrsilllssu�rl I lly/,I•- �" ' m _ m En 494 e'P�xisod RoL'IICI (Existinq Transmissinnj ine) i { a x f.. 4 3 ry \"l h tW-• �r;l �j� _did+^... .r .�:r. 55 s Wilt E. ✓ � c fT .,4, .. i i lilt LL-) .9 Ilk r I Y City of Plymouth Adding Quality to Life October 2011 Modified on 10/21/11 Center Page 12 1 2 3 4 6:30 PM 5 7:00 PM 6 7 8 VOLUNTEER PLANNING RECOGNITION COMMISSION EVENT MEETING Plymouth Creek Medicine Lake Room Center Yom Kippur Begins at Sunset 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 5:30 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM SPECIAL COUNCIL ENVIRONMENTAL PARK £t REC 12:00-3:00 PM MEETING` QUALITY ADVISORY FIRE DEPT. COLUMBUS DAY Parkers Lake Room COMMITTEE COMMISSION OPEN HOUSE Observed (EQC) MEETING (PRAC) MEETING Fire Station III 7:00 PM Parkers Lake Room Plymouth Ice Cente PLYMOUTH PUBLIC REGULAR COUNCIL WORKS DIVISION MEETING CLOSED Medicine Lake Room 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 6:00 PM CANCELLED SPECIAL COUNCIL PLANNING MEETING" COMMISSION Parkers Lake Room MEETING Medicine Lake Room 23 24 2 5 2 6 2 7 28 29 7:00 PM 6:00 PM 7:00 PM REGULAR COUNCIL PLYMOUTH HRA MEETING MEETING ADVISORY Parkers Lake Room Medicine Lake Room COMMITTEE ON TRANSIT /Halloween STUDY SESSION 0 P Bass Lake Room *Review applications for and 2 Council Position o and quarterly U date with City Manager ek n ymouCreek ** Conduct Interviews for and 2 Council Position Modified on 10/21/11 Center Page 12 City of Plymouth Adding Quality to Life November 2011 Modified on 10/21/11 Page 13 1 2 7:00 PM 3 7:00 PM 4 5 PLANNING HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION COMMITTEE MEETING MEETING Medicine Lake Room Parkers Lake Room 6 7 8 8:00 Pm 10 11 12 REGULAR 7:00 PM COUNCIL MEETING ENVIRONMENTAL Medicine Lake Room QUALITY VETERANS DAY SPECIAL COMMITTEE Observed COUNCIL MEETING (EQC) MEETING CITY OFFICES Immediately Follow- Parkers Lake Room CLOSED ing Regular Meeting Budget Study Session Medicine Lake Room 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 6:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM SPECIAL COUNCIL PLANNING HRA MEETING MEETING COMMISSION Parkers Lake Room Board and Commission MEETING Interviews Medicine Lake Room Parkers Lake Room 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 7:OOPM REGULAR COUNCIL. MEETING Council Chambers THANKSGIVING THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY HOLIDAY CITY OFFICES CITY OFFICES CLOSED CLOSED 27 28 29 30 7:00 PM PLYMOUTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON TRANSIT (PACT) MEETING Medicine Lake Room Modified on 10/21/11 Page 13 City of Plymouth Adding Quality to Life December 2011 Modified on 10/21/11 Page 14 1 2 3 4 2:00-5:00 PM 5 6 7 7:00 PM 8 7:00 PM 9 10 OLD FASHIONED PLANNING PARK Et REC CHRISTMAS COMMISSION ADVISORY Plymouth Historical MEETING COMMISSION Society Building Council Chambers (PRAC) MEETING Council Chambers 11 12 13 14 7:00 PM 15 16 17 7:00 PM ENVIRONMENTAL REGULAR COUNCIL QUALITY MEETING COMMITTEE (EQC) Council Chambers MEETING Council Chambers 7:00 PM CHARTER COMMISSION ANNUAL MEETING Medicine Lake Room 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 7:00 PM HRA MEETING Parkers Lake Room Chanukah CHRISTMAS EVE Begins at Sunset 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 CITY OFFICES NEW YEAR'S EVE CLOSED CHRISTMAS DAY Modified on 10/21/11 Page 14 Tentative Schedule for City Council Agenda Items November 8, Regular, 8:00 p.m., Medicine Lake Room • Approve 2012 Regular Council Meeting Schedule • Approve change order and final payment for lighting project • Approve change order and final payment for Plymouth Skatepark • Adopt ordinance amending Section 1016 of the City Code regarding Plymouth Ice Center fees • Approve change order and final payment for the Hilde Performance Center project • Approve final payment for the Plymouth Dog Park project November 8, Special, Immediately following Regular Meeting, Medicine Lake Room • Discuss 2012 Budget November 15, Special, 6:00 p.m., Parkers Lake Room • Board and Commission interviews • Council Coordinating Representatives for 2012 • Deputy Mayor for 2012 November 22, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Medicine Lake Room • Announce Old Fashioned Christmas on December 4 at Plymouth Historical Society Building • Approve donations to the City of Plymouth December 13, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers • Adopt the 2012 Budgets and Tax Levies and 2012-2016 Capital Improvement Program • Recognize Police Citizen Academy Graduates • Approve 2012 Tobacco License renewals • Announce New Year's Eve Event at the Plymouth Ice Center Page 15 CROW WING COUNTY BOARD: Human rights commission dropped Posted: October 11, 2011 - 7:46pm Brainerd Dispatch/ Steve Kohls The Crow Wing County human rights commission was abolished Tuesday in a 4-1 board vote. Commissioner Rachel Reabe Nystrom was the lone vote in favor of keeping the human rights ordinance that created the commission in 1998. More recently, the Human Rights Commission has been the subject of contention and friction among its members. Tuesday's public hearing brought about 40 people to the board room. Many voiced their opinions both for and against the commission to commissioners during a hearing that lasted nearly two hours. "To be honest," said Commissioner Phil Trusty, "I was disappointed." Trusty said he wanted to see if there was support for the commission and hear how it interacted with the community. Those in favor of keeping the commission said it added weight to the goal of promoting human rights in the community and served an educational role. Those against said the commission was redundant and served little to no purpose. In recent days, the issue of whether to have a Human Rights Commission or not took on a partisan tone. That continued Tuesday, although Crow Wing County Board Chairman Paul Thiede said while the subject has been part of heated conversation he would not allow inflammatory language before the board. Father David Gallus, League of Minnesota Human Rights Commission district director, said differences are not just about race and color but about all kinds of differences. Gallus said the role of the Human Rights Commission is to promote harmony and respect for the rights of all. If the commission failed it was not the fault of human rights but perhaps the members needed to be changed, Gallus said. "To me it's not a political issue. As a clergyman — for me — it's a moral issue," Gallus said. Terry Sluss, who was on the county board when the human rights ordinance was adopted, said he realized there were contentious situations and personality issues but he urged the board to allow additional time for others to step forward. Roger Lynn, retired United Methodist minister from Crosslake and executive director of Crow Wing County Youth Wellness Initiative, strongly urged the board to keep the commission, noting its role in education. Lynn said a concern is having a community that welcomes and Page 16 supports youths not just for the future but for the present and human rights is an issue close to many youths active in the community. Guy Green, Brainerd, said what the board was hearing in public testimony was symptomatic of many problems in American Society today. "Crow Wing County is not brimming with racial tension," Green said. Nystrom said Willie Navy, who was the victim of a racially motivated beating in Brainerd, may not agree. "We may not be brimming with racial tension, but there is racial tension," Nystrom said. Green said the Human Rights Commission had no accountability, no attendance and had an abundance of representation from the DFL Party and accusations of racism at the drop of a hat. "The population of this county and this country are tired of that," Green said. Green said reshuffling the chairs was not a solution as the state Department of Human Rights, police and population and schools are immersed and bathed in diversity and multiculturalism on a continuous basis. Several residents said the commission was set up to receive a percentage of a fine if a business was fined by the state, which they strongly disagreed with. William Durham, who regularly attended Human Rights Commission meetings, said state records regarding that are itemized and show no payment to the commission. Durham also questioned all the talk about accountability issues, saying grant requirements were met and satisfied and expenses noted with the auditor's office without money lost or unaccounted for. Rep. John Ward, DFL -Brainerd, said it was ironic and sad to be debating whether to have the human rights ordinance on the same day the Minnesota Supreme Court justices were arriving in Brainerd. "I'm also saddened this issue has become a partisan issue," Ward said. "... It's not a Democrat or Republican issue. It's an issue that deals with respect, dignity, diversity, tolerance of all of our people." Ward said human rights are not one party's platform but is part of an American issue. Ward said he found it was concerning that five people would make a determination he saw as a slam-dunk decision because he lived discrimination and bullying. "When I was younger before the Equal Opportunity Act, I was discriminated against and bullied both. I lost jobs because of my arm," Ward said. "I remember that only too well. Those issues are very real and important to many people in this county." Page 17 Thiede took issue with Ward's comments about five people making the decision as five people made the decision to create the Human Rights Commission. Maggie Tiede, 16, Remer, a Central Lakes College student and member of the executive board of the diversity leadership council, spoke in favor of keeping the commission. "I am a member of many diverse communities here and I would really hate to see Crow Wing County be a county that doesn't put human rights first," Tiede said, adding she couldn't see a community that doesn't put human rights first as one where she'd like to spend her adulthood. Doug Kern, who said his son was a victim of bullying, said when human rights are violated they should be prosecuted but he was bothered by a monetary reward system for finding violators. "That is totally wrong," Kern said, adding he agreed with Green's comments. An Unorganized Territory resident said the commission was a conflict of personalities, inactive and ineffective and should be eliminated. He said if someday in the future it could be effective he would be in favor of it, but not now. Yvonne Leiser, one of the original signers on a petition for the human rights commission in 1998, read from a list of early supporters. Leiser said although the commission has stumbled she urged the county board to give it a chance to be productive. Jeff Czeczok said the board and other community leaders were criticized for not attending a human rights gathering after the Navy beating but they weren't there because they didn't need to be educated on human rights. The Constitution is taught in high school, he said. "Nobody is asking or questioning the need for human rights," Czeczok said. "Everybody knows what human rights are. If you don't understand it, can you be educated? I don't think so." Thiede at first took exception to Czeczok's remarks, misunderstanding him to say board members should have attended. Thiede said it wasn't necessary for the board to attend every meeting or read every Vox Pop published in the Dispatch to be informed and he wasn't going to let Czeczok take swipes at the board. "I'm not doing that," Czeczok said, adding he thanked the board for not going. County resident Mike Murphy said the commission wasn't needed and has already shown it doesn't work. "It doesn't mean you guys don't care about human rights," Murphy said. "We're wasting too much time here on it. Let's get rid of it." Paul Mans, county resident with a diverse family, said in 1990 a group formed a Habitat for Humanity chapter here, which went through several changes but kept going and now is building its 75th home. Mans urged the board to give the commission a chance to improve. Page 18 Human Rights Commission Chairman Josh Heintzeman and Secretary Keri Heintzeman previously told the board they thought the commission, which has struggled to get quorums for meetings, could be disbanded and didn't have a long list of successes. Commissioner Doug Houge said he struggled to see any accomplishments by the board. Nystrom pointed to the annual human rights award, which highlights leaders in human rights in the community and said she had emails from about 13 people willing to serve. Commissioner Rosemary Franzen said there are only two counties in the state with a commission and just 5 percent of cities have such commissions. "I don't think there is any debate we support human rights," Franzen said, adding the county opposed discrimination and welcomes diversity. "I do believe we are a duplication of service." The Heintzemans said the discussion wasn't covering facts and issues facing the commission. "The facts are this organization has leaned heavily toward one side politically in terms of its influence and there is a part of us that feels that is being ignored," Josh Heintzeman said. The Heintzemans told the commissioners they walked out of the last county board meeting on Sept. 13 when the board voted to set Tuesday's public hearing and fellow Human Rights Commission member Taylor Stevenson made a threatening comment in the hall. Josh Heintzeman later called Stevenson and recorded their conversation. Tuesday, the Heintzemans read from a transcript of that conversation where Stevenson apologized to them for any threatening comments. Keri Heintzeman said Stevenson told the Dispatch he didn't remember making those comments but she didn't think he would forget and then provide a lengthy apology to them over the phone. Nystrom asked if Stevenson was aware they were recording him to which Josh Heintzeman said it's legal to record someone without their knowledge. The Heintzemans reported Stevenson said he could have people phone in death threats to those opposed to the group. The Heintzemans said that comment was threatening to the commissioners. The Brainerd Police Department received a report about the issue last Thursday. The Heintzemans said that fact that nobody was talking about it was shocking to them. Keri Heintzeman said they care about human rights and that Stevenson's alleged threat is a violation of human rights. Josh Heintzeman said he felt their credibility was being challenged by a story in the Dispatch in Tuesday's edition in which they felt portrayed them as liars because their testimony was damaging to a future of a human rights commission. The Heintzemans said they were doing the best they could to give an accurate representation of their experience on the commission. "Josh and I are not liars on this," Keri Heintzeman said. "We are just concerned citizens trying to do the right thing." Page 19 Nystrom said with Stevenson, a former DFL candidate for office, and the Heintzemans active Republicans, it didn't sound like the commissioner involved partisanship to her. Keri Heintzeman said she was referring to the past and noted an incident in 2005 when the commission took issue with comments Paul Koering made when he scared away would-be robbers from his Brainerd liquor store when he said crime is something that comes with growth. Josh Heintzeman said the issue with Stevenson only cemented in their minds the commission is a partisan organization. "And it doesn't make any sense why it should continue forward in terms of its accomplishments and its abilities to truly resolve any of the issues that might come to this county," Josh Heintzeman said. Thiede cautioned against further discussion based on partisanship that would draw the board into that debate. "I, for one, will resist to my death that this becomes a partisan issue at this table," Thiede said. "I think partisan politics are part of our reality today but being drawn in because there is a partisan squabble going on out in the community is unnecessary in my mind." After Tuesday's meeting, Durham, who was present in the hall on Sept. 13, said he did not remember the type of statement the Heintzemans did nor the tone in what he thought was a civil discussion. Contacted later Tuesday, Stevenson said when Josh Heintzeman called him he didn't remember making the comment or not but understood Heintzeman was bothered by it and apologized saying it was a stupid, flippant comment that didn't have any more meaning and was done in the same seriousness as a comment about the Vikings offensive line on Sundays. Stevenson said he never should have said anything like it but was in a conversation with people he considered friends. Weeks later it became a police investigation and front page discussion. "I have to apologize whether I said it or not for this becoming a distraction in what is an important debate," he said regarding the future of the human rights commission. Page 20 Saundra Marie Spigner-Bell Spigner-Bell, Saundra Marie Died peacefully in her sleep at her home in Plymouth on October 15th. Her husband Donald Bell in 1997 and her father Herbert Spigner preceded her in death in 1997. She is survived by her only -+ child, Jessica T. Lyrek (Randy); her grandchildren, Dante', Torii and Kenzie Lyrek; her mother, Eugenia Spigner; sister, Tandy Spigner and brother, Herbert R. Spigner; as well as uncles, aunts, nieces and nephew and many cousins and friends. Saundra had accomplished many things in her life, including a career as a Probation Officer, a member of the Metropolitan Council, Plymouth City Council, POST Board and CASH Board. But, her biggest accomplishments were being a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, daughter and friend. Saundra will be remembered with a public visitation at Washburn- McReavy Davies Chapel, 2301 Dupont Ave S., Minneapolis on Thursday from 5-9 pm. The funeral will be Friday, 2 pm at St Mark's Episcopal Cathedral, 519 Oak Grove St., Minneapolis. In lieu of gifts and flowers, the family is asking that monetary donations be made out to Jessica Lyrek. Washburn-McReavy Davies Chapel 612-377-2203 Published in Star Tribune from October 18 to October 19, 2011 Page 21 MINUTES WAYZATA COMMUNITIES IN COLLABORATION COUNCIL October 12, 2011 PRESENT Bob Wittman, Brenda Heim, Susan Sommerfeld, Donna Marget, Katie Jackelen, Linnea Fonnest, Sarah Gaveske, Judy Hanson, Leah Hughes, Chace Anderson, LaDonna Hoy, Cheryl Lubinski, Peggy Douglas, Carter Peterson, Janet Carlson, Sarah Sham, Gloria Lundberg -Jorgenson, and Margy Herbert CALL TO ORDER • Brenda Heim called the meeting to order and announced that Becca Fink welcomed a son, Jasper David Fink, on October 5, 2011. SEPTEMBER MINUTES • The minutes were approved, as written. MILKEN EDUCATOR AWARD RECIPIENT • Susan Sommerfeld and Chace Anderson announced that Seth Brown, a Mathematics teacher from West Middle School, was awarded the Milken Educator Award. STATE OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT • Wayzata currently has 7 Elementary Schools, 3 Middle Schools and 1 High School. Enrollment continues to grow with 10,422 students currently enrolled. • Wayzata Public Schools Strategic Roadmap presentation, including the Mission, Vision, Core Educational Values, and Strategic Directions. Review of Operational Principles, Teaching and Learning, Human Resources, Finances continue to be strong, Technology, Special Services, Community Education, and Expanding Community Engagement. • School Board Elections will be held Tuesday, November 8, 2011. COMMUNITY UPDATES Partners In Prevention • Judy Hanson reported that interviews were conducted to hire a Coalition Coordinator for the PIP program. An offer had been made to the selected candidate. Comcast Essentials • Margy Herbert announced that Comcast has a program to bring low cost Internet and computers to qualifying families in the Wayzata School District. The program provides $9.95/month internet access to Free Lunch Families and a computer for $149.99. Page 22 CICO • The CICC would like to expand membership at the monthly meetings and asked for input for representation. A recommendation was made to invite the Plymouth Adult Correctional Facilities Volunteer Coordinator, Connie Meyer. YES CLUB • James J. Hill Days, Wayzata Homecoming were both held in September. • Currently over 700 student members in the YES Club. • Habitat for Humanity dates: October 20, 21, 22 and November 10, 11. Adults are needed for each date. Need help at WHS getting the information and needs out to community. • Trick -A -Can for Food Shelf collection event on Halloween. IOCP • La Donna Hoy recommended we include IOCP Social Work Interns and Hennepin County workers in the November CICC meeting and suggested we use a larger room if necessary. • Park Nicollet Mobile Clinic (Free Service) will begin providing onsite services at IOCP and Meadowbrook Apartments in St. Louis Park. • Prairie Care — Mental Health Provider, servicing Hennepin County and Wayzata School District would like to set up a meeting to discuss services. HENNEPIN COUNTY LIBRARY • Linnea Fonnest stated that October is Teen Reading Month and teens can upgrade their library cards and have library fines reduced. • Teen's Guide to Jobs brochure: www.teenlinks.org/iobs&money WAYZATA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE • Peggy Douglas announced that the Wayzata Business Community will be participating in Boo Blast, October, 29, 2011, from 11:00-3:00. Boo Blast is a safe alternative to Trick or Treating and Halloween celebrations. Includes many free activities for the family; face painting, trolley rides, costume contest, and Lund's cookout. ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM • Kelly Goddard sent information on upcoming Free Community Resource Fairs, 2011: Friday, October 12, 2011, 1:00pm-5:00pm, Brookdale Library. Thursday, October 27, 2011, 1:00pm-5:00pm, Ridgedale Library. Monday, November 7, 2011, 2:00pm-6:00pm, Eden Prairie Library. • If anyone needs energy assistance applications they are available at: www.capsh.org The meeting was adjourned at 4:35 PM. Respectfully submitted, Margy Herbert Page 23 ['.up City of Plymouth Adding Quality to Life October 15, 2011 Mr. James N. Grube Transportation Department Director and County Engineer Hennepin County Transportation Dept. 1600 Prairie Drive Medina, MN 55340-5421 SUBJECT: Hennepin County Cost Participation Policy w-- Dear rube: Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the proposed amendments to the Hennepin County Cost Participation Policy. My comments are general in nature and reflect greater policy discussions that I believe should occur before adopting this amended policy. With respect to ongoing "routine" maintenance responsibilities for retaining walls, sidewalks, and noise walls/barriers/mitigation fences that, by your policy, are to be borne by municipalities, there are no definitions of what constitutes "routine" maintenance nor is there clarity on what constitutes "reconditioningireplacement" or when the latter is warranted versus the former. I do not believe the cost sharing formulas used for traffic signal installation costs in the past and as proposed in the amendments are fair to municipalities that frequently contribute very little of the traffic used to determine the need for a traffic signal. Municipalities often are overburdened by being responsible for a share of the installation costs plus power costs. The storm sewer cost sharing portion of the policy is a bit confusing except that the results of the algorithms almost invariably end up with the municipality paying a substantial portion of the trunk cost. In addition, municipalities are ultimately responsible for the maintenance of the trunk lines. The policy also lacks a clear definition of maintenance responsibility for other storm water Best Management Practices (BMPs) that may be constructed under this policy such as retention/detention basins, rain gardens, infiltration basins, or other water quality treatment devices. 3400 Plymouth Blvd • Plymouth, Minnesota 55447-1482 • Tel: 763-509-5000 • www.ptymouthmn.gov Page 24 Finally, I am concerned about some of the language in the policy as it relates to private utility relocation. As you know, counties and municipalities are continually under fire by private utility companies to pay relocation costs associated with a construction project and having reference to participating in costs in a policy I believe may bolster their arguments for payment. I would be interested in sitting down with you and other interested parties to discuss these matters further as I believe much of the policy may be based on valid rationale that can't be easily explained or communicated in the policy itself. If you have any questions or comments, please contact me at 763.5©9.5051. Sincerely, Doran Cote, Director of Public Works cc: Laurie Ahrens, City Manager Page 25 1,2P City of Plymouth Adding Quality to Life October 21, 2011 SUBJECT: PUD AMENDMENT FOR PLYMOUTH STATION AUTO CENTER AT 16825 COUNTY ROAD 24. (2011072) Dear Resident/Land Owner: Pursuant to the provisions of the Plymouth Zoning Ordinance, the city has recently received an application from Ebert Construction on behalf of the Plymouth Station Auto Center, under File No. 2011072, requesting approval of a planned unit development amendment to allow the following: 1) a building addition on the north side of the building for auto detailing; 2) additional fuel pumps and an extension of the canopy on the west side of the existing canopy; 3) an electronic sign to replace the manual price and message board within the current freestanding sign; and 4) an expansion of the business hours from 6 a.m, to 11 p.m. to 4 a.m. to midnight. 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, November 2, 2011, in the Medicine Lake Room at the 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 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, Barbara G. Thomson, AICP Planning Manager nu1ice42811MMV,Lym,ptdfib Blvd • Pfymouth, Minnesota 55447-1482 Tet 763-509-5000 • www.pLymouthrnn.gov Page 26 City of Plymouth . 71--.� Adding Quality to Life October 21, 2011 SUBJECT: CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR B & B OF PLYMOUTH, LLC (2011079) Dear Property Owner: Pursuant to the provisions of the Plymouth Zoning Ordinance, this letter is to inform you of a request by B & B of Plymouth, LLC, under Rile No. 2011079, for a conditional use permit to allow a Five Guys Burgers and Fries convenience restaurant in the C-4 (community commercial) zoning district for property located at 4105 Vinewood Lane North. 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, November 2, 2011, in the Medicine Lake Room at Plymouth City Hall, 3400 Plymouth Boulevard. The public will be invited to offer questions and comrnents 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 exam,iRed at the community development information counter (lower level of city haft) on Mondays and Wednesday through Friday from 8:00 a.m, to 4.30 p.m., and on Tuesdays from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., except holidays. Sincerely, YAVIA4 11~ Barbara G. Thomason, AICD Planning Manager 2011079propaotice 3400 Plymauth Blvd * Plymouth, Minnesota 55447-1482 • Tel: 763-509-5000 + www.pLymouthmn.gov �r Page 27