Loading...
The URL can be used to link to this page
Your browser does not support the video tag.
Home
My WebLink
About
Council Information Memorandum 04-24-2009
CITY OF PLYMOUTH rp) COUNCIL INFO MEMO April 24, 2009 UPCOMING MEETINGS AND EVENTS Human Rights Commission Agenda 04/30/09.....................................................................................Page 1 League of MN Cities 2009 Annual Conference 06/24/09 -06/26/09 ..................................................... Page 2 April, May, June 2009 Official City Meeting Calendars................................................................... Page 10 Tentative List of Agenda Items for Future City Council Meetings ................................................... Page 13 INFORMATION News Articles, Releases, Publications, Etc ... Ehlers Market Commentary 04/20/09............................................................................................... Page 14 Local Governments Spending More on Lobbyists, Article, MN Public Radio .................................. Page 17 MEETING MINUTES EQCMinutes 03/11/09.......................................................................................................................Page 21 PACTMinutes 03/25/09.................................................................................................................... Page 23 PACT Special Work Session Minutes 04/02/09.................................................................................Page 29 STAFF REPORTS Plymouth Police Department Statistics 1" Quarter 2009.................................................................. Page 32 CORRESPONDENCE Letter to Property Owners, RE: Cimarron Ponds Neighborhood Meeting ........................................ Page 36 Letter to Property Owners, RE: Cimarron Ponds Neighborhood Meeting ......................................... Page 37 Letter to Property Owners, RE: Site Plan Amendment for Inspec 2009006 ...................................... Page 38 Notice of Public Hearing, Shingle Creek Watershed Management Commission ............................... Page 39 Letter from Henn Cty Transporation Dept, RE: Overlay Projects for 2009 ....................................... Page 40 Email from Resident, RE: Thank you.................................................................................................Page 42 C Plymouth Human Rights Commission Regular Meeting Agenda Thurs., April 30th, 6:00 p.m. City Hall, Parkers Lake Room 3400 Plymouth Boulevard 1. Call to Order 2. Approve Agenda 3. Approve Minutes a. Minutes of March 18, 2009 4. Reports of Commissioners 5. Police Reports/Update 6. Old Business a. Debrief Training Session b. Choice is Yours: Follow Up Conversation from Training c. Review Flow of Evening for Essay Ceremony (outline attached) 7. New Business a. Music in Plymouth: Booth, Activity, Handicap Bathrooms, & Seating b. Future Grants c. Publicity: Article for Sun Sailor re: Essay Ceremony 8. Upcoming Meetings a. Supervisor Training Planning Meeting: May 20, 6:30 p.m. b. 5HRC Planning Meeting: April 27 — Contact Chair Klevorn for details 9. Adjournment Page 1 EAGUEOF I 'MINNESOT. CITIES ix= Ll G U E (l y_AA_INA1ES SURVIVING RES THRIVING IN THE FUTURE 110 ATINUM LEVEL: RBC Dain Rausc Ehlers & Associates, Inc. PMA Financial Network 4M Fund Administrator VoyageurAsset Management 4M Fund Administrator SILVER LEVEL: Springsted Incorporated -RONZELEVEL: American Engineering Testing, Inc. Briggs and Morgan. P.A. Dorsey & Whitney LLP Hamline University School of Business Kennedy & Graven, Chartered Northland Securities, Inc. Opening Keynote by Jason Davis Emmy -winning host of KSTP's"On the Road" Before getting down to the serious business of learning how to manage your city in tough times, start by remembering and celebrating why our Minnesota communities are such great places. During the opening conference session, KSTP news reporter and program host, Jason Davis, will take us"On the Road" to experience unique stories and interesting people from across the state. During the opening session, the League will announce the 2009 City of Excellence Award winners—recognizing the accomplishments of select cities that have worked to enhance the vitality and quality of life in our communities. Closing Luncheon Keynote by Jim Ramstad Former congressman, 3rd congressional district Host Almanac: At the Capitol; Political Reporter, Almanac Veteran Congressman Jim Ramstad will talk about his service in both Congress and in the Minnesota State Legislature, and offer his observations about the political ' climate following the 2008 elections and how the economic crisis is impacting �7 Minnesota cities. Ramstad will also share his thoughts about how folks from different political camps can all work together to keep our state moving forward. Conference Prising Full Conference Thursday Only Regist�atl Cities with population under 1,000 $200 early bird - through May 8�:a $250 early bird - through May 8 $300 regular - after May 8 $400 regular - after May 8 Newly Elected Official (elected during 2008) $250 early bird - through May 8 $400 regular - after May 8 Regular Attendee $350 early bird - through May 8 $400 regular - after May 8 The full conference fee includes admission to all conference sessions, networking, and meal events. Lodging is not included in these fees. Thursday -only registrants will be issued a special Thursday -only name badge. Thursday -only registration allows admis- sion to: Concurrent Sessions I, 11, and /it, LMCAwards Luncheon and Annual Meeting; and Marketplace events on Thursday only Conference Overview 8 a.m. -7:30 p.m. Registration Open 9 a.m. -12 p.m. Calming the Crowds: Working Constructively with Concerned Citizens 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. Mobile Workshop: Going Green in St. Paul 10 a.m. -12 p.m. Introduction to the League and the Conference 11 a.m. -12 p.m. Local Government Jargon: I'll Take Acronyms for $200 12 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Lunch on Your Own 130-2:45p.m. Special Interest Roundtable Discussions 3-4:45p.m. Opening Session with Keynote Speaker Jason Davis 5 -7:30 p.m. Marketplace Grand Opening 7.30- 10 p.m. "City Night" at the Science Museum of Minnesota per, z5 7a.m.-6p.m. Registration Open 8-9:45 a.m. City -State Roundtable Conversations 9 a.m. - 2:30p.m. Marketplace Open 9 - 9:45 a.m. Exhibitor -City Conversations in the Marketplace rJ-i1:30am. Concurrent Sessions I 10-1130a.m. Mobile Workshop: St. Paul Union Depot— A Transit Hub Reborn 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Guest/SpouseTour: Capital City Historic Buildings ($So7person) 11:45 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. LMC Awards Luncheon and Annual Meeting 1:30 -2:30 p.m. Marketplace Grand Finale and Dessert Buffet 1:30-2:15p.m. Exhibitor -City Conversations in the Marketplace 7:30-3:30pm. Concurrent Sessions II 2:30-5 p.m. Mobile Workshop: Mississippi River Water Quality Boat Tour ($307person; limit 50) 3:45-5p.m. Concurrent Sessions III 5:15-8p.m. LMC Networking Reception and Evening Entertainment at Landmark enter Stroll over to the historic Landmark Center for a casual networking reception. Enjoy generous hors d'oeuvres, a cash bar, and live music as you unwind from the day's sessions and events. a.m. 26 11 Registration Open 8:45 - 10:15 a.m. Concurrent Sessions IV 10:30 a.m. - I p.m. 2009 State and Federal Legislative Update and Closing Luncheon with Keynote Speaker Jim Ramstad LMC Resource Center: Engineering Solutions for Your City V264V , Stop by the new LMC Resource Center to visit with public and private city engineers to discuss current engineering-related concerns for your community. The City Engineers Association of Minnesota and the Engineering CEOs of Minnesota will be supplying knowledgeable engineers and a comfortable place to discuss new regulations related to stormwater, water quality, water supply systems, traffic and transportation, assessments, funding, and capital improvement program preparation. Decisions on these topics make a big impact on your annual budget, so stop in to get expert advice from people who know Minnesota cities best! ,n Exhibitor-City Conversations in the Marketplace These conversations are designed to give you a chance to see successful public- private partnerships in action, and hear directly from the people involved. Find out how these types of partnerships can benefit your city, and meet people who have "been there, done that"and might have already successfully managed an issue or project that your city is facing! Mobile Workshop: Going Green in St. Paul Wednesday, June 24 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Energy savings and environmental sustainability are the order of the day. Start your 2009 conference experience with a walking tour of downtown St. Paul to see the latest in what's happening with "green" buildings. Mobile Workshop: St. Paul Union Depot—A Transit Hub Reborn Thursday, June 25 10-11:30 a.m. When it was built in 1923, The St. Paul Union Depot was one of the state's most important transportation hubs. It's about to be reborn for the 21 st century. Visit one of Minnesota's most beautiful historic struc- tures to learn how it's on the way to becoming the Twin Cities'con- necting point for light rail; bus lines, and high-speed rail to Chicago. Mobile Workshop: Mississippi River Water Quality Boat Tour Thursday, June 25 2:30-5 p.m. (530/per5on) This workshop will take you on the Mississippi River to explore water quality concerns, land use issues, and regulations facing the com- munities in the Mississippi River Watershed. We will discuss tools and resources to assist local municipalities. This tour is offered by Nonpoint Education for Municipal Officials (NEMO). NEMO is a program for local officials that builds knowledge and under- standing of water issues, and the connection to land use decisions. Special Interest Roundtable Discussions Wednesday, lune 24 • Highlights from the LMC Demographics Task Force report • Building connected communities • Organized collection • Partnerships with schools Social media 101 Municipal liquor stores Negotiating union contracts Water and wastewater planning and management Guest/Spouse Tour: Capital City Historic Buildings (Thursday, lune 25, 10 a.m. 3 p.m.; $50/per5on) This event includes tours of the Governor's Mansion, James J. Hill House, Cathedral of Saint Paul and the Minnesota State Capitol. Transportation and lunch are included in the registration fee. Calming the Crowds: Working Constructively with Concerned Citizens 9a.m. -12 p.m. Advance registration required. Let's face it—certain citizens can be a real pain in the rear! Do they have legitimate concerns or are theyjust causing trouble? How do you interact successfully with them? And how do you conduct city business in a civilized manner when some people just want to fight? Find out how to work constructively with concerned citizens. Mobile Workshop: Going Green in St. Paul Wednesday, lune 24 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Energy savings and environmental sustainability are the order of the day. Start your 2009 conference experience with a walking tour of downtown St. Paul to see the latest in what's happening with "green' buildings. Introduction to the League and the Conference 10am. -11 p.m. Get an overview of the League and its many products and services. Discover how to tell your city story to stakeholders in your com- munity, including lawmakers, the media, and your residents. Finally, learn about the 2009 Annual Conference and Marketplace and make the most of your time in St. Paul. Local Government jargon: I'll Take Acronyms for $200 11 a.m. -12 p.m. CDBG! SWPPS! GASB 32 and 451 MVHC! LUGS! Puhleeeeze. Can t anyone just speak plain English? Join in a fun Jeopardy -type game as you brush up on all the acronyms and jargon you'll need to know to survive and thrive as a local government official. Special Interest Roundtable Discussions 1:30-1:45 p.m. Start the conference discussing the things you're most excited about! Topics include demographics, building community, working with schools, social media, municipal liquor stores, water/wastewater, and union contracts. Page 6 L 10 - 11:30a.m. Concurrent Sessions I Developing Your Resources Staffing Your City in a Turbulent Time Retaining and attracting great city employees is a key to making it through tough times. Learn how to keep current staff motivated while the money is tight, and compete in the future for specialized talent that could be surprisingly scarce. Protecting Your Resources Tackling Foreclosure Problems Mounting foreclosures are a crisis in too many communities. How can cities help homeowners? What policies need to be in place to protect neighborhoods? How severe will the impact be on the city tax base? What federal, state, and other resources are available to help? Going Green to Save Green Reducing Energy Costs Today Save the planet? Commendable! Save your city some money? Smart! Several Minnesota cities will share practical strategies they've implemented to reduce energy consumption and costs. Governance for the Times Controlling Costs Through Risk Management Of course LMCIT will be there to defend and protect you. But did you know that tomorrow's premiums are based, in part, on your losses today? Learn about the top five losses for cities, along with policies, programs, and resources to get them under control. Especially for Small Cities Revitalizing Main Street in Tough Times Understanding trends, identifying priorities, and developing key partnerships are all action steps that can yield results even when credit is scarce and the economy is troubled. Discover how working with Main Street businesses and using tools available through the Economic Development Authority (EDA) or Housing and Redevelop- ment Authority (HRA) can make a difference. Conference Within a Conference Capitalizing Your Hometown: State Budget and Revenue Trends So you think the good times will return and the state will, once again, rush to your city's financial rescue! Well, er... Gain an appreciation for the long-term realities of state revenues and expenditures, and what cities realistically can and cannot expect in the future. Mobile Workshop: St. Paul Union Depot—A Transit Hub Reborn See description on page 5 2:30 - 3:30 p.m. Concurrent Sessions II Developing Your Resources Is There a Future Manager in Your Midst? Turnover at the management level is bound to happen—whether planned or unexpected. Hear how several cities have prepared for those situations, as well as pitfalls to avoid. Explore issues to address and possible resources to tap during transitions. Protecting Your Resources Disaster Response—Who's in Charge When the Lights Go Out? It happens to every city sooner or later—some type of major disaster. On May 25, 2008, for the City of Hugo it was a tornado ranked EF -3, with wind gusts of up to 165 miles per hour. City officials and community members will talk about how they responded, their long-term recovery efforts, and what they are doing to prepare for future emergencies. Going Green to Save Green Investing for Tomorrow's Benefit The"green revolution"offers many exciting opportunities for future gain if a city is willing to plan ahead and invest. Presenters will focus on two of particular interest—capital expenditures (from wastewater plants to wind turbines) and fostering economic development through "green businesses." Become familiar with resources available, benefits, tradeoffs, unintended consequences, and how to get started. Governance for the Times What Does It Mean to be an "Ethical" City Official? Is an election certificate enough, or are there more global values to help guide your behavior and decisions?The LMC Ethics Task Force is eagerto share its work, including a recommended values -based model code that you can consider and adapt for your city. Especially for Small Cities Resources to Keep Moving Forward Take advantage of a session that brings together a number of organizations providing various types of assistance to small cities! Hear quick summaries of what's available for what purpose, and some "words to the wise"for those seeking grants. Learn how to position your city for progress when times get better. Conference Within a Conference Capitalizing Your Hometown: Alternative Revenue Sources, Part I State aid has been slashed and the property tax is declining. It's time to make sure you've considered all of the other sources of local revenue for your city. Part I of this session gives an overview of what's legally available, what the funds can be used for, and how to avoid legal traps. Mobile Workshop: Mississippi River Water Quality Boat Tour See description on page 5 ($30/person) Page 7 THE PRESENT • THRIVING IN THE FUTURE 3.45-5p.m. Concurrent Sessions III Developing Your Resources Getting the Best Bang for the Public's Buck "Best Value Government" may be the latest buzzword, but. how exactly does it translate into city operations? Gain an understanding of what it means to look beyond lowest cost. Check out the pros and cons, possible applications, and tips for successful implementation. Protecting Your Resources Effective Lobbying and Advocacy Techniques Mad as heck? Not gonna take it anymore? Protecting city interests and getting the support you and other cities need from the state takes more than just a wish. It takes knowing how to tell your story effectively. Get armed with some surefire techniques to make sure you're heard and listened to. Going Green to Save Green From Carbon Credits to LEED—Strategies that Work You've heard that it's important to reduce your carbon footprint, enhance energy efficiencies in public buildings, and more, but perhaps you are a bit overwhelmed by all this technical stuff. Several city officials who have implemented "green" projects will share the what, why, and how, while giving straightforward, practical answers to your questions. Governance for the Times There's No "I" in Team: Capitalizing on Everyone's Talents City government brings together individuals from different back- grounds, interests, and talents—on the council and on the staff. How does a city effectively tap its"human power?"Veteran elected officials and staff will discuss roles of council and staff, and provide tips for working together successfully to accomplish stated goals. Especially for Small Cities HR Nuts and Bolts—What Cities Need to Know to Stay Out of Trouble Hiring freezes, wage reductions, layoffs, discipline, and terminations. They're notjust darned unpleasant; they're also a landmine of potential liability. Get practical advice on how to stay professional, do it right, and avoid making a bad situation a whole lot worse! Conference Within a Conference Capitalizing Your Hometown: Alternative Revenue Sources, Part II Armed with information from Part I about what's legally available, hear from city officials and fiscal planners about some of the more successful alternative revenues being used in Minnesota. Mobile Workshop: Mississippi River Water Quality Boat Tour, continued See description on page 5 ($30/person) Concurrent Sessions IV Challenges of Handling Very Public Problems: When "It" Hits the Fan In today's 24/7 information cycle, cities are often behind the 8 -ball when communicating with the public and the media during natural disasters and human crises. Learn from a panel of city officials how to successfully communicate during a crisis. and how emerging technologies can augment city communi- cations in urgent and critical situations. Governing Your City's Utilities: From the Tap to the Toilet Do you feel out of sorts when dealing with utility issues? You'll walk away from this session with a grounding in topics from regulatory impacts to revenue flow to loss control that is guaranteed to provide relief! Toxic People in Toxic Times—Six Survival Strategies! With the current economic downturn and budget crisis for cities, a "perfect storm' is brewing for bringing out the worst in people, especially toxic personalities. The presenters share data from their two-year national study in which they found a whopping 94 percent of leaders deal with toxic personali- ties. Discover the three types of toxic personalities and the enablers who surround them. Find out how to cope when one of these dysfunctional folks makes their way into your city and your life. Bring your burning questions and you'll learn how to create better communities of respectful engagement. Improving Your Community's Quality of Life through Proactive Policing Your city's crime rate may be low, but is your police service all it could be? Working with the Upper Midwest Community Policing Institute, the City of Albert Lea took steps that transformed the way their department worked, and created results that citizens have praised. Learn the top 10 things you should expect from your police department and how to achieve those results. Conference Within a Conference Capitalizing Your Hometown: Internal Controls Sadly enough, tough economic times mean even more temptation for the people charged with overseeing your city's money and other resources.The Office of the State Auditor offers a practical and, yes, entertaining session on how to spot and prevent fraud through effective internal controls. Page 8 Experience 5to Pev a For people seeking truly unique experiences, St. Paul is Minnesota's must -see capital. It is a Mississippi River landmark where adventure and inspiration meet unparalleled innovation, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. It's been said St. Paul is the "City of Neighborhoods" Each neighborhood has its own unique feel with a neighborhood grocery store or popular pub or well known spot for a burger, pizza, or walleye. For more information on dining, shopping, attractions, and events in St. Paul, contact: St. Paul Convention and Visitors Authority 175 West Kellogg Boulevard, Suite 502 St. Paul, MN 55102 Phone: (651) 265-4900 Toll Free: (800) 627-6101 Email: info@visitsaintpaul.com www.visitsaintpaul.com Saint Paul RiverCentre 175 West Kellogg Boulevard rp) City of Plymouth Adding Quality to Life April 2009 Modified on 04/24/09 Page 10 1 2 3 4 7:00 PM 6:00-8:00 PM 9:00 AM— PLANNING Yard & Garden 1:00 PM COMMISSION Expo Yard & Garden MEETING Plymouth Creek Expo Council Chambers Center Fieldhouse Plymouth Creek Center Fieldhouse 5 6 5:30 PM 7SPECIAL 8 9 10 11 COUNCIL 7:00 PM Cancelled MEETING` ENVIRONMENTAL PARK & REC Medicine Lake Room QUALITY ADVISORY COM - 7:00 PM COMMITTEE MISSION (PRAC) Board of (EQC) MEETING MEETING Equalization Council Chambers Council Chambers Council Chambers AFTER B.O.E. SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING** 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 7:00 PM 7:00 PM Primavera Primavera REGULAR COUNCIL PLANNING Plymouth Arts Plymouth Arts MEETING COMMISSION Council Show Council Show Council Chambers MEETING Plymouth Creek Plymouth Creek Council Chambers Center Center 19 20 21 7:00 PM 22 23 24 25 Primavera Primavera Board of 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 9:00 AM - Plymouth Arts Plymouth Arts Equalization PLYMOUTH HRA MEETING 12:00 PM Council Show Council Show Reconvened ADVISORY Medicine Lake Room City Sampler Plymouth Creek Plymouth Creek COMMITTEE ON Plymouth City Hall Center Center AFTER B.O.E. TRANSIT (PACT) SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING MEETING"" Medicine Lake Room A 26 27 28 5:o0PM 29 306:OD-7:00 PM SPECIAL COUNCIL HUMAN RIGHTS MEETING COMMISSION Medicine Lake Room Parkers Lake Room Agenda Below '4/7 5:30 Discuss I-494 Third Lane 7:00 PM "4/7 After B.O.E.: Updal e with City Manager HUMAN RIGHTS 7:00 PM COMMISSION „..4/21 Land acquisition for Northwest Greenwai REGULAR COUNCIL ESSAY CONTEST X4/28 Dedication of k at Millenium Garde MEETING AWARDS and Preliminary Budget D scussion Council Chambers Council Chambers Modified on 04/24/09 Page 10 rp) City of Plymouth Adding Quality to Life May 2009 Modified on 04/24/09 Page 11 '1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 7:00 PM PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Council Chambers 10 11 12 5:30 PM 13 14 15 16 SPECIAL COUNCIL 7:00 PM 7:00 PM MEETING ENVIRONMENTAL PARK B REC Medicine Lake Room QUALITY ADVISORY COM - Review Dial -A -Ride COMMITTEE MISSION (PRAC) (EQC) MEETING MEETING 7:00 PM Medicine Lake Room Council Chambers REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING Council Chambers 17 18 19 20 6:30PM HUMAN RIGHTS 21 22 23 COMMISSION SPECIAL MEETING Parker's Lake Room 7:00 PM PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Council Chambers 24 25 26 5:30 PM 27 7:00 PM 28 29 30 SPECIAL COUNCIL PLYMOUTH ADVISORY 8:00 AM -3:30 PM MEETING' COMMITTEE ON SPECIAL MEMORIAL Medicine Lake Room TRANSIT (PACT) RECYCLING DROP X31 DAY MEETING OFF EVENT Observed Medicine take Plymouth 7.00 PM Room A Maintenance Facility CITY OFFICES REGULAR COUNCIL 7:00 PM •5/26 Discuss Homm wers Associations and CLOSED MEETING HRA MEETING Subdivision of Lots Council Chambers Parkers Lake Room Modified on 04/24/09 Page 11 City of Plymouth Adding Quality to Life June 2009 Modllled on 04/24/09 Page 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7:00 PM PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Council Chambers 7 — 10 8 9 11 12 13 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM REGULAR COUNCIL ENVIRONMENTAL PARK Et REC MEETING QUALITY ADVISORY COM - Council Chambers COMMITTEE MISSION (PRAC) (EQC) MEETING MEETING Council Chambers 14 F 15 16 17 7:00 PM 18 19 20 PLANNING COMMISSION FLAG DAY MEETING Council Chambers 21 22 23 24 7:OOPM 25 26 27 7:00 PM PLYMOUTH REGULAR COUNCIL ADVISORY MEETING COMMITTEE ON 8:00 AM Council Chambers TRANSIT (PACT) MUSIC IN MEETING PLYMOUTH Medicine Lake Room A 5K RUN 7:00 PM HRA MEETING Parkers Lake Room 28 29 30 Modllled on 04/24/09 Page 12 Tentative Schedule for City Council Agenda Items May 12, Special, 5:30 p.m., Medicine Lake Conference Room • Review Dial -a -Ride May 12, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers May 26, Special, 5:30 p.m., Medicine Lake Conference Room • Discuss homeowners associations • Discuss subdivision of lots May 26, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers June 9, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers • Presentation by County Commissioner Jeff Jolmson June 23, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers July 14, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers July 28, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers August 11, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers August 25, Regular, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers Note: Special Meeting topics have been set by Council; all other topics are tentative. Page 13 12..E Ehlers Market Commentary April 20, 2009 Slight Decrease in Rates Tax-exempt interest rates were down approximately .15% for both short term and long term issues. The one year maturities are extremely low, with a 2010 AAA G.O. yielding .43%. Babble about BABs Build America Bonds (BABs) have emerged in the marketplace with a bang. Two high profile university financings occurred late last week utilizing the taxable bond option with a 35% interest reimbursement. The University of Virginia sold $250,000,000 revenue bonds rated AAA/Aaa with a 6.221% yield in 30 years. For investors, it was a healthy 255 basis point spread to the 30 year Treasury that was yielding 3.67%. For the University, finance officials stated that they saved 80 basis points over a tax- exempt offering. The University of Minnesota issued both tax-exempt bonds and taxable BABs rated AA/Aa2. The tax-exempt bonds had maturities from 2010 to 2021. The taxable BABs were 20 year term with a 6.38% yield, almost 2.75% higher than a comparable Treasury. As a reminder, BABs were authorized in the recent federal stimulus bill and are eligible for new money, governmental use and must be issued by the end of 2010. They are taxable bonds to the buyers, but issuers are eligible for a direct payment that may reduce net interest rates below current tax-exempt market levels. The effort is to spread the market for taxable bonds to international buyers as well as pension funds and other corporate debt buyers. This new tool is just emerging, but this is what we can tell you: BABs can easily be sold on a competitive basis. We have been offering taxable G.O. bonds to the market for a long time, with favorable numbers of bids and terms. Recently, many local governments have sold taxable OPEB bonds ranging from less than $5,000,000 to over $20,000,000 in the last six months and spreads to Treasuries have been declining. Whether taxable BAB's or tax-exempt bonds, we believe having multiple investors competing for your bonds will result in the lowest interest rates for your community. • The markets will change. As very large BABs are issued ($1B+), the appetite for taxable bonds may tighten, increasing rates. At the same time, with a lower supply of tax-exempt bonds, yields on tax -exempts may drop. Over the long term, the attractive yields of BAB relative to Treasuries may draw bigger players into the market, again lowering taxable rates. Many traders expect the market to ebb and flow. For this reason, we plan to encourage our clients to authorize both types ISEHLERS LEADERS IN PUBLIC FINANCE www.ehiers-inc.com Offices in Minnesota (800) 552-1171 Wisconsin (800) 717-9742 Illinois: (800) 417-1119 Page 14 Ehlers Market Commentary April 20, 2009 of bonds when a sale is called and allow staff, bond counsel, and the financial advisor to determine the best mix of taxable and tax-exempt shortly before the sale. • BABB work better with longer bonds, for now. Shorter term bond issues (under 10 years) do not show much savings with BABs in today's market. • There are `options" with call dates. Call dates of 10 years or less are possible on smaller (under $50M) issues. Certainly in the taxable market, a non -callable bond or one with a "make whole" provision will offer slightly lower interest rates, as witnessed by the lower rates in the University of Virginia financing with a make whole provision versus the University of Minnesota's 10 year call. However, there is a significant loss of flexibility in long-term bonds with no call option. • New risks exist with BABs. There is concern that the federal government may be subject to future budgetary pressures and may reconsider the amount allocated to subsidy payments in the future, potentially retroactive to older BABB. The feds have not yet established a tested system for timely payment of the 35% subsidy. The U of M and UVa did include an extraordinary call provision that allowed the bonds to be pre -paid if the federal subsidy was reduced or eliminated. • Arbitrage compliance is important. Even though BABs are taxable, the subsidy brings strings attached. We strongly recommend that our clients contract with us or their existing arbitrage provider for annual calculations for BABs as well as adopt a post -issuance compliance policy. The IRS will have a more direct method of enforcing compliance with arbitrage regulations by withholding the semi-annual direct payment. Final regulations are not yet out, so we do not know if a more rigid reporting requirement on post -issuance compliance could be on the horizon. Rantings about Ratings Municipal interest groups such as GFOA, National Association of Counties, School Business Officials, and National League of Cities are asking Congress to require the rating agencies to rate on risk of default only and to further equalize the municipal and corporate rating scales. This letter was, in part, a reaction to Moody's Investors Service's recent warning to bond investors about a huge segment of municipal bonds. Moody's put the entire tax -backed local government sector on a negative credit watch. Many interpret the negative watch as the first step to downgrades. The SEC has signaled that it is concerned about internal conflicts of interest within rating agencies. According to The Bond Buyer, SEC chair Mary Schapiro recently stated that the "status quo" is not good enough. The SEC already has regulatory authority over rating agencies. EHLERS LEADERS IN PUBLIC FINANCE www.ehlers-inc.com Offices in Minnesota (800) 552-1171 Wisconsin (800) 717-9742 Illinois: (800) 417-1119 Page 15 Ehlers Market Commentary April 20, 2009 Ehlers' financial advisor Jon North, a former rating agency analyst, has often commented that municipal bonds both default less often than corporate bonds and, if there is a default, the losses by bond holders are much smaller than in the private bond market. Jon has also seen the blurring of the lines between corporate and municipal debt, first when the swap market was active and guarantees on swaps were often by corporations rated under the corporate scale alone. Now, BAB bonds are attempting to reach traditional buyers of corporate bonds, further eroding the argument of the past that the municipal bond market and the corporate bond market had distinctively different markets. Regulation Revolution Our own Steve Apfelbacher, in his role as president of the National Association of Independent Financial Advisors, was in Washington last week to meet with House and Senate staff on changes to regulation of financial advisors. Steve reports that it is almost guaranteed that sweeping regulation of the financial industry will impact the municipal bond industry, as soon as a few months but certainly by the end of 2009. One of the questions is clearly defining what is a financial advisor. It appears that Congress' main target are firms that give advice on derivative products and investments but Congressional staffers have difficulty drawing a clear line between debt and investments. It is possible that firms like Ehlers will become subject to increased federal regulation, but we do not expect that to significantly change our role in providing independent financial advice to our clients. 40 EHLERS LEADERS IN PUBLIC FINANCE www.ehiers-inc.com Offices in Minnesota (800) 552-1171 Wisconsin (800) 717-9742 Illinois: (800) 417-1119 Page 16 MPR: Local governments spending more on lobbyists 00 0 MONDAY, APRIL 20, 2009 0&..,-0000oo a43' in TWIN CITIES (MORE CITIES) MNNEWrA PUBLIC RA910" FEAATLIRS £v EMS MEMBEf15HIP ABOUTUS Local governments spending more on lobbyists by Tom Scheck, Minnesota Public Radio April 20, 2009 http://miPines ota.pub] icradio.org/display/web/2009/04/ 17/1obbyists_... THE CURRENT CLASSICAL NEWS o LISTEN oLISTEN .,LISTEN PLAYLIST PLAYLIST SCHEDULE V PADIOHEARTLAND a WONDERGROUND RADIO u `t=F Democrats in the House and Senate are scheduled to release their tax bills this week, and a lot of people will be looking to see how those bills Impact local governments. Many of them will be lobbyists -- lobbyists who are paid with taxpayer money. Minnesota Public Radio News examined lobbying reports and found that local units of government spent 35 million to lobby the Legislature between 2003 and 2007. St. Paul, Minn. — A few weeks ago a group of police officers and firefighters, city officials and others held a rally outside of the Capitol to urge lawmakers to protect state aid to local government. The group that organized the rally is called The Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities. The group is one of the loudest critics of Gov. Tim Pawlenty's proposed cuts to local government aid. The group collects dues from 78 rural Minnesota cities and then uses most of that money to lobby the Legislature. Between 2003 and 2008, The Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities reports spending nearly $4 million lobbying the Legislature - the most of any local government or local government association. "There's isn't any way that a reasonable person wouldn't say that is well worth it to have a voice at the Capitol," said Tim Flaherty, the Coalition's lead lobbyist. Flaherty said rural cities rely on his association to make sure their interests are represented at the Capitol. "We have cities from International Falls to Worthington to East Grand Forks -- all over the state. They are part-time public servants," Flaherty said. "They don't have the resources or the time to come down to the Capitol to represent themselves." There isn't anything illegal or unethical about local units of government lobbying the Legislature, but the amount of money being spent by local governments to lobby the state has increased dramatically. Figures reported to the State Auditor show local government lobbying expenses more than doubled in 10 years. The total was $3.6 million in 1998 and $7.8 million in 2007. Those figures include spending by cities, counties, school districts and local government associations. Gov. Pawlenty has been the fiercest critic of the amount of money local governments are spending to lobby state government. At one point this year, he suggested that city officials concerned with his level of budget cuts could save money by firing their lobbyists. He said every unit of government has to make tough budget decisions. "We are in some very challenging times right now and people have to prioritize their spending," Pawlenty said. "I would suggest that on top of the list should be things like police and fire so any city or county or local unit of government that is saying on one hand are going to reduce those services, but on the other hand are paying money out the door for lobbyists. It seems like misplaced priorities to me." Pawlenty also argued that local government officials don't need a full-time lobbyist at the Capitol because they could lobby their lawmakers themselves when they're back in the district. Flaherty and others argue that they spend most of their time working to reverse Pawlenty's policy proposals. They also say the governor has an army of lobbyists at his disposal - from within his own office and other state departments who spend most of their time working to promote Pawlenty's agenda at the Capitol, and lawmakers are taking note of those efforts. "We just think it's an expense that doesn't have to be there," said DEL Representative Michael Paymar of St. Paul. Paymar, who chairs the House Public Safety budget division, included a provision in a bill that forbids several agencies and departments, like Public Safety and Corrections, from using any money to lobby the Legislature. "Departments have their own lobbyists to lobby us," Paymar said. "Not only are they present at all of our meetings, but often times you'll have assistant commissioners and other staff members in addition to the lobbyists there to answer our questions. So why do we need lobbyists?" It's difficult to determine how much money the governors office and state departments spend on lobbying because they don't have to report their figures. The governor's office spends $520,000 in salaries for seven people in its Legislative and I of 4/20/: Page 17 MPR: Local governments spending more on lobbyists http://minnesota.publicradio.org (display/web/2009/04/ 17/lobbyists_... Cabinet Affairs Department, but those staffers don't devote all of their time to lobbying An official with the Management and Budget department said there are another 23 people who lobby on behalf of agencies and departments but they have other job responsibilities as well. Pawlenty said his administration needs to work closely with legislators to get the state's work done. "Each state agency and the governor's office have people that convey our thoughts and respond to legislative inquiries," Pawlenty said. "We interact with the Legislature. We couldn't function if we didn't. If we had a rule that said we couldn't interact with the Legislature, it would be a pretty weird situation." A report of annual salaries in the governor's office also shows that the state spends $383,000 a year for two other lobbyists -- the ones who work with the federal government in Washington. ©2009 Minnesota Public Radio I All rights reserved 480 Cedar Street, Saint Paul, MN USA 551011651-290-1212 2 of 3 4/20/2 Page 18 MPR: Local governments spending more on lobbyists Local government lobbying: The biggest spenders S m ,co S2 mean http://minnesota.publ icradio.org/display/web/2009/04/ 17/lobbyists_... Associations Local Government Units 20032007 2000-20o] cca6a a ting d MWiewm b[odaam Mebo,dh Mpeez z Hemp * Ramzry S ftw W.,mn G. MMrc . Ylwd dMeVo mitt{.w �+azY fnuNy ANpwt[ Alhine[ota cro ao[N[ cwNn n nlao lnmml[zbn fitln M[nda[�n. SJW4C. Mnfx5W2 $.aiEAM�tal Large associations that represent local governments make up the majority of lobbying spending at the state Capitol. (MPR Graphie/Than Tibbetts)lmage 3 of 3 1 < Prev c�osE 3of3 4/20/2( Page 19 MPR: Local governments spending more on lobbyists http://minnesota.pub] icradi o. org(displ ay/web/2009/04/17/lobbyists_... Growth in local government lobbying: 1998-2007 t } _local gu.'tsspdit 57817,620 mull in 2007 57 md0oo 56 million SS mullion __. . -. among SO mdJ- 53 mdliot 52 mWbr 51 mill or 1998 1999 2000 2001 1002 2603 2001 3005 2006 2007 Bonding Budget Bander, Budget Bonding Budget Bending. Eedl't Bonding Budget mu, $ to Slaty Ie— Local governments have doubled their spending on lobbying activities since 1998.'Spending spiked in 2005 because the the 2004 legislative session ended with no agreement on a bonding bill, which carried over into the next year. Legislators were late finishing their work in 2005 leading to a state government shutdown. (MPR Graphicllban Tibbetts)tmage 2 of 3 1 < Prev Next > close 8 3 of3 4/20/20 Page 20 City of Plymouth Environmental Quality Committee (EQC) March 11, 2009 MEMBERS PRESENT: Chair Kathy Osborne, Commissioners Carlos Gutierrez, Tawnia Johnson, Katie Kendrick, David Pellinger, Kyle Turner and Ken Zieska 101 0113 1 1.104 0RI:11. fin STAFF PRESENT: Water Resources Manager Derek Asche, Transit and Solid Waste Manager Sarah Hellekson, City Engineer Bob Moberg and Office Support Specialist Patty Hillstrom OTHERS PRESENT: Councilmember Ginny Black 1. CALL TO ORDER— 7:00 P.M. 2. PUBLIC FORUM 3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Motion by Commissioner Zieska, seconded by Commissioner Turner, recommending approval of the March 11, 2009, Environmental Quality Committee meeting agenda. With all members voting in favor, the motion carried. Vice Chair Pellinger suggested that the EQC consider an appointment to the Medicine Lake TMDL committee. Water Resources Manager Asche replied that the EQC appointed former EQC member Terri Christian to the Medicine Lake TMDL stakeholder process; although, she is no longer a member of the EQC and agreed that the EQC might want appoint another representative. Commissioner Turner volunteered for the position. Motion by Commissioner Zieska, seconded by Commissioner Johnson appointing Commissioner Turner as the EQC representative for the Medicine Lake TMDL committee. With all members voting in favor, the motion carried. Councilmember Black informed Commissioner Turner that the next TMDL meeting will be held tomorrow at 4:00 p.m. She added that his name would be forwarded on to the Pollution Control Agency (PCA) in order that his name to added to the email list for notification of meetings. 4. PRESENTATIONS AND PUBLIC INFORMATION ANNOUNCEMENTS 5. CONSENT AGENDA* A. APPROVAL OF FEBRUARY 11, 2009, ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY COMMITTEE MINUTES Page 21 Environmental Quality Committee Minutes March 11, 2009 Page 2 Motion by Commissioner Zieska, seconded by Commissioner Johnson, recommending approval of the February 11, 2009, Environmental Quality Committee meeting minutes. With all members voting in favor, the motion carried. 6. PUBLIC HEARING There was no public hearing scheduled for the meeting. 7. GENERAL BUSINESS A. SOLID WASTE AND RECYCLING — 2008 ANNUAL REPORT Transit and Solid Waste Manager Hellekson introduced herself to the EQC and gave a presentation on the 2008 Annual Report for solid waste and recycling. Transit and Solid Waste Manager Hellekson noted that she will be conducting a recycling survey in 2009 and will forward the survey questions to the EQC for their review. Commissioner Turner asked if the Special Drop -Off event could be held on Saturday and Sunday. Transit and Solid Waste Manager Hellekson replied that it is difficult to get the vendors to work on Sundays. Commissioner Gutierrez asked what happens to appliances that are brought to the drop-off event. Transit and Solid Waste Manager Hellekson replied that they are recycled. Councilmember Black added that bicycles and lawn mowers are also recycled. Transit and Solid Waste Manager Hellekson gave a brief overview of the MERF tour on March 7, 2009. 8. REPORTS AND STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS Chair Osborne noted that the Environmental Quality Fair is tomorrow, March 12, 2009, and asked if anyone read the article in the paper yesterday about the "Lights Out" program. Chair Osborne asked if the EQC Work Plan has been discussed at a Council study session. Councilmember Black replied that it has not occurred yet and that it would probably take place in a couple months. 9. FUTURE MEETINGS — April 8, 2009 10. ADJOURNMENT With no objection, the meeting adjourned at 8:50 p.m. Page 22 Minutes PLYMOUTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON TRANSIT Medicine Lake Room (upper level of City Hall) Wednesday, March 25, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. Present: Chair Gustafson, Commissioner Kedzuf, Commissioner Paprocki, Commissioner Honer, Commissioner Cheng, Commissioner Wosje Other: Manager Hellekson, First Transit Paul Buharin, Committee Reporter Tiegs Guest: Mythili Chari, Plymouth resident and system user Absent: Commissioner Rudnick Chair Gustafson called the March 25, 2009, meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. in the Medicine Lake Room in Plymouth City Hall. 1. Approval of Agenda • A motion was made by Commissioner Honer and seconded by Commission Paprocki to approve the agenda. Motion carried 2. Approval of February 18, 2009 Minutes • Motion was made by Commissioner Cheng and seconded by Commissioner Honer to approve the minutes as amended. Motion carried. 3. Review Action Items Action Items: 1. Route reviews: Due in February to PACT for review (776, NW Plymouth) (Aug). Reviewed at Jan meeting. Special PACT Meeting to discuss routes Thursday, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., April 2, 2009, City Hall, Medicine Lake Room. Commissioner Rudnick and Commissioner Paprocki are unable to attend the meeting. 2. Four Seasons name change: Too late for early Sept deadline. (Sept) Next set of route maps deadline March 2009 for distribution June. Reviewed at Jan meeting. March 25, 2009 Minutes Page 1 Page 23 Name change will be effective when new route maps are ready for distribution. 3. Cell Phone Posters: (First Transit): Large cell phone signs not on all buses -not on New Flyers. (Jan) Chair Gustafson stated that the cell phone signs still are not on all buses. Baldwin, 4:27 bus Gillig has no cell phone signs, saver card does not work. First Transit Buharin reported that the buses were checked and signs are posted. Chair Gustafson stated some buses only have small signs and would like to see buses have the larger signs posted too. 4. Bus Shelter Downtown: (Bernie & Paul) Check on bus shelter at Marquette & Washington (by the ING building and the one by the PO) to see if it they are being rebuilt and when. (Dec) Reviewed at Jan. meeting. URS Consulting will not address bus shelters during construction. Feb meeting: Commissioner Honer asked staff to check on this again and email her as well as notify at the March meeting. Commissioner Kedzuf asked whether a compromise was possible. Due to the project jurisdiction, the City of Plymouth has no say as to what happens to these Metro Transit shelters within the City of Minneapolis. They are not interested in repairing the stop during the project. Manager Hellekson will speak to someone at MET Council to see if there are other avenues to address repairs. Due to funding shelters will not be addressed until construction is completed. 5. Paper Hangers: Chair Gustafson has concerns regarding paper hangers on the bus and the inconvenience of them hitting her and other riders in the face. Would like them located in one spot on the bus. (Feb) & Fare Boxes: Fare boxes on the Metro Transit buses (Jan). Staff picked up the cables for the fare boxes this week. First Transit Buharin reported that this item is now closed and fare boxes have been installed. 3a. Mythili Chari, Plymouth resident and system user • Guest Chari attended the meeting as a representative for the ridership. Guest Chari stated that the ridership is very supportive of Plymouth Transit and the transit station. Guest Chari brought a ridership concern to the PACT regarding the 777 and 772 routes. Ridership would like to request staggering the timing of those routes by 5 or 10 minutes to better assist ridership catching a bus should they miss the first bus. That would help serve the ridership better. Commissioner Cheng stated this should be added to our work session on April 2, 2009 for discussion. Chair Gustafson stated that bus capacity could be an issue. Guest Chari said missing a bus means a 30 -minute wait for the next bus. The transit system is built on a limited number of buses and making the best recycle to downtown as fast as possible. Commissioner Honer stated changes could be done with the services available now. This can be discussed on April 2nd. Guest Chari will attend the April 2nd meeting regarding the route March 25, 2009 Minutes Page 2 Page 24 change discussion. Guest Chari also inquired about bike racks for transit centers. Manger Hellekson stated that they are available at the transit stations but ridership must bring their own locks. 4. Discuss Quality and predictability of transit (handout provided) Chair Gustafson reviewed the document containing data from the Complaint Logs dated 10/07 thru 10/08. After reviewing the statistics complied from this data there were trends that showed manageable service issues. Early/late bus complaints with the majority happening during the afternoon routes. Commissioner Cheng commended Chair Gustafson on compiling the data. Commissioner Cheng commended First Transit on their excellent service. First Transit Representative Buharin would like to see the complaints cut down by Y2. Driver courtesy is most important and should be stressed to all drivers. Commissioner Wosje, stated complaints by passengers compared with number of passengers would be helpful. Action Item: Coordinator Maciej will do quarterly data trending using Chair Gustafson's model beginning with 2nd quarter and continue to compile on a quarterly basis. Action item: Signs should be posted listing contact information such as phone number, email address, and city website address so ridership have a point of contact and access to information. 5. Review Transit Program Annual Report 2008 (handout provided) Manager Hellekson reviewed the annual report with the PACT Commissioners. The Commissioners discussed the focus for the 494 corridor and MNDOT which is to relieve congestion compared to the PACT focus of mass transit. Chair Gustafson commended Manager Hellekson and Coordinator Maciej on the Annual Report 2008 document. 6. Downtown UPA Project Update (handout provided) For more information, staff reports and maps, go to http://www.ci.minneapolis. mn.us/council/2009- meetings/20090327/tpw20090310agenda.asp Hearings to be held on the following projects: March 25, 2009 Minutes Page 3 Page 25 March 31, 2009 - Second Ave N Reconstruction Project (Washington Ave to 3rd St N): Project approval, assessment, and areaway abandonment and removal public hearing. March 31, 2009 - Third Ave N Reconstruction Project (Washington Ave to 5th St N): Project approval, assessment, and areaway abandonment and removal public hearing. March 31, 2009 - Lynnhurst Street Renovation Project (Phase V): Project approval and assessment public hearing. April 14, 2009 - Oak Hill Area (West Half) Street Resurfacing Project: Project approval and assessment public hearing. April 28, 2009 - Thomas Ave North Street Resurfacing Project (Dowling Ave N to 42nd Ave N): Project approval and assessment public hearing. Coordinated Street Furniture Program (staff report attached): The City rejected all proposals for the Coordinated Street Furniture RFP due to the global economic crisis and authorized staff to negotiate with CBS Outdoor to extend the existing franchise contract for bus shelters. Clear Channel will donate designs for Marquette and 2nd Avenue bus shelter. Staff will work with Metro Transit to determine ownership and funding, design, specs and bids for Marquette and 2"d Ave bus shelters (30 shelters). Staff was directed to work with others to develop an operation and maintenance plan for the shelters. • Chair Gustafson stated she spoke with the Hwy 101 project manager. Construction on 101 will start at 13th Avenue beginning April 13th, 2009 with completion during 2010 to County Road 24. 7. Plymouth Transit Performance Measurements and Ridership (handout provided) • Coordinator Maciej reviewed the performance measurement data. • Coordinator Maciej reviewed the ridership. Dial -a -Ride has decreased and fixed routes have decreased. Due to unemployment all routes have experienced lower ridership. March 25, 2009 Minutes Page 4 Page 26 8. Issues from February -March 2009 (handout provided) • Commissioners discussed complaint log. The complaint lot overall looks good. • First Transit must continue to be aware of hearing impaired and visually impaired ridership and their need for assistance that may arise. • Commissioner Kedzuf inquired about the March 17th stalled bus that is not listed on the incident log. Due to the dates covered on the log this will be included on the next log for March -April. 9. Identify areas of concern and/or recommendations • Commissioner Cheng Route reported that route 777/2368 fare box ate tickets/passes and needs to be addressed. Commissioner Cheng requests that STA be scheduled to speak to the PACT Commissioners. Manager Hellekson stated this has been scheduled for July. Commissioner Cheng would like the performance measurements to include on-time information by system. Manager Hellekson stated this was reviewed at the meeting held in January 2009. The discussion concluded this information would be added after construction is completed downtown. Commission Cheng made the recommendation for January of 2010 as the date to begin the on time performance measurements. Safety would be the other concern to measure. Breakdowns, driver violations. Action item: Sarah and Bernie will set up for future reporting for on-time and safety concerns. • Chair Gustafson spoke about the April item on the 2009 Work Plan regarding the recommendation to Plymouth City Council on Dial -A -Ride. The Plymouth Council believes Dial -A -Ride is heavily subsidized and the funds would better enhance the fixed routes to service more residents. Action Item: New PACT Commissioners need Dial -A -Ride background information. March 25, 2009 Minutes Page 5 Page 27 At the April 22 meeting discussion a Dial -A -Ride recommendation as related to the budget will be drafted for Plymouth City Council. The ridership survey will be moved to the month of October. Commissioner Kedzuf asked a general question regarding expectations for the special meeting on April 2, 2009. The expectation is to review information provided in the meeting packets by Coordinator Maciej and be ready for discussion. • Commissioner Honer stated the 772 at Station 73 at 6:18 did not show up. Coordinator Maciej did not receive a complaint call. Commissioner Honer stated that 6th Street is no longer observed as a stop must go to 5th or 7th Streets which is causing some inconvenience for the ridership. Metro transit eliminated times and did not notify ridership. Talk to Sarah Hellekson for wording??? 10. Other Business • Legislative update distributed for information purposes. A general directive to Commissioners to review the information cost summary for the meeting on April 2, 2009. 11. Adjournment • Motion made by Commissioner Wosje and seconded by Commissioner Paprocki to adjourn the meeting at 9:24 p.m. Motion carried. March 25, 2009 Minutes Page 6 Page 28 SPECIAL WORK SESSION PLYMOUTH ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON TRANSIT Medicine Lake Room (upper level of City Hall) April 2, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. 7:00 pm, work session began (no call to order required) Members Present: Chair Gustafson, Commissioner Rudnick, Commissioner Wosje, Commissioner Honer, Commissioner Kedzuf. Others Present: Transit Coordinator Maciej, First Transit Representative Baldwin, First Transit Representative Buharin, Two Resident Transit Riders, and Committee Reporter Violett. Chair Gustafson requested the PACT Commissioners separate to review routes, ask questions of First Transit representatives or the Transit Coordinator and make recommendations for the Metrolink routes without increasing the budget. Route Discussion Assignments: 1. Route 772 - Assigned to Commissioner Horner (& applicable supporting shuttles) Route 772: No changes recommended as Route 777 changes will be sufficient. Shuttles servicing Station 73: No changes recommended. 2. Route 790/793 - Assigned to Commissioner Wosje (& applicable supporting shuttles). Integrate the 792 shuttles with the 793 route thereby reducing costs by eliminating some of the 792 shuttles. Stagger the 790 and 793 routes in the afternoon by five minutes rather than running at the same time. The recommendation is to run route 793 five minutes before the 790 route which may reduce standing capacity currently on the 790 route. Alternatively, run the 793 before the 790 to avoid passengers standing. The 793 - evening route would travel on 26th Avenue and Medicine Lake Road and run through the Medicine Lake neighborhood. Service would remain the same and could have possible money savings. Action Item: Transit Coordinator Maciej to do a cost analysis and First Transit Representatives Baldwin and Buharin will look at timing and structure. If same level of service is maintained, no public hearing would be necessary for this change. WORK SESSION NOTES APRIL 2, 2009 Page 1 Page 29 It was also suggested to run one route in reverse, starting at 26th and Kilmer, which had previously been presented at the February meeting. 3. Route 777 - Assigned to Commissioner Kedzuf. The proposed change to the 777 route is to add part of the 773 route, which would increase route time by five minutes. How would the increased commute time by staggering at Station 73 affect the shuttles? Action Item: Transit Coordinator Maciej will do an impact analysis of a 5 minute, 7 minute and 10 minute (proposed by Jim Baldwin) time changes. Changes would be earlier start times, must take into consideration both Station 73 riders and residential riders, and arrival times in downtown to coordinate with start times, i.e. 7:00, 7:30; 8:00, both on 777 and 772. Consider long term plans to shorten route 777 and look for a better way to transport people from northwest corner of Plymouth. 4. Route 776 - Assigned to Chair Gustafson and Commissioner Kedzuf. Recommend shortening Route 777 and begin Route 776 at Schmidt Lake Road and Peony Lane and then back. However, this would not shorten 777 significantly. Relocate site of Peony Lane stop. The recommendation is to have Route 776 cross State Highway 55 at a different location. A recommendation is to add one more morning and one more afternoon route to 776 this would shorten the current 28 minutes between routes. Route 776 has the second highest ridership. First Transit Representative Baldwin recommended studying routes at this point before making changes. 5. All Other Routes - PACT Members Commissioner Rudnick Recommend considering reversing commuter routes — no impact to budget, or leave as they currently are and consider adding routes in future, when money is available. Eliminate one of the two afternoon routes, either 774 or 795 currently at 1210 and 210 for emergencies — there would be one for Station 73 and Four Seasons, then a flex route. Transit Coordinator Maciej will do a cost savings analysis of eliminating one of the afternoon routes. WORK SESSION NOTES APRIL 2, 2009 Page 2 Page 30 Chair Gustafson, Commissioner Kedzuf, and Commissioner Rudnick agreed to meet separately to discuss reconfiguring the city's routes utilizing major roadways whereby shortening routes and decreasing commute times. This would involve dividing Plymouth into four quadrants and determining the best access routes to major roads. The PACT proposes to revisit route changes if the transit budget decreases. The July session will confirm if there will be additional funds available for transit. Dial -A -Ride Recommendation On April 2, 2009 at 8:36 p.m. Chair Gustafson called the meeting of the Plymouth Advisory Committee on Transit (PACT) to order at in the Medicine Lake Room at Plymouth City Hall. A motion was made by Commissioner Kedzuf and seconded by Commission Wosje for discussion of Dial -A -Ride services. Motion carried. Commissioner Honer suggested stopping the Monday to Friday Dial -A -Ride service at 6 pm and discontinue Saturday service. First Transit Representative Buharin said it would save approximately $50,000.00. Chair Gustafson asked First Transit Representative Buharin where the most money could be saved and if the number of buses could be reduced. First Transit Representative Buharin stated peak hours are the most productive, but will research options of one or two fewer buses during weekdays. Commissioner Kedzuf recommends an increase in the Dial -A -Ride fare to $3.50. Chair Gustafson requested a motion for recommendation to City Council. Motion made by Commissioner Honer and seconded by Commissioner Wosje to recommend to the Plymouth City Council the elimination of Saturday service and end Monday to Friday services at 6 pm. Motion carried. Adjournment 9:07 p.m. Action Items: Transit Coordinator Maciej will compile a packet of information and distribute to PACT Commissioners. Route schedule deadline for printing: Finalized by Aug/Sep for December 2009 start date. Route changes: Due September 1 will be effective Dec ember 1, 2009. Procedure for public hearing and Plymouth City Council to approve the recommendation: Verify with City Manager Ahrens whether a public hearing is required to approve Dial -A -Ride service changes. WORK SESSION NOTES APRIL 2, 2009 Page 3 Page 31 PLYMOUTH POLICE DEPARTMENT STATISTICS 1st Quarter Part I Crimes Homicide/negligent homicide 0 0 0 0 0 0 Criminal Sexual Conduct/Rape 0 0 0 1 2 1 Robbery 1 3 0 2 3 1 Aggravated Assault 3 5 1 0 1 7 Burglary - commercial 8 3 2 5 7 6 Burglary - residential 12 14 6 10 1 20 17 Larceny/Theft 120 82 83 88 71 61 Motor Vehicle Theft 7 3 13 13 5 13 Arson 0 0 0 0 0 0 TOTALS 151 110 105 119 109 106 change over previous year -21.2% -0.9% 1.0% Page 32 Part II Crimes Assaults 15 21 150 17 24 14 Forgery 1 5 1. 4 2 1 Drugs/Controlled Substance Offenses 14 7 10. 7 7 7 Crime Against Family 1 1 0. 1 1 0 Criminal Sexual Conduct 3 0 0. 3 1 0 DWI 18 25 12M 12 14 13 Underage drinking & driving 1 0 1. 0 1 1 Juvenile -Alcohol offender - Under 18 years 5 1 5. 0 3 2 Juvenile -Controlled substance offender 1 0 0. 1 1 1 Liquor -sell to or procure liquor for a minor 3 2 0. 4 0 0 Liquor -underage consumption 18-21 5 0 40 1 0 2 Juvenile use of tobacco 0 0 0. 0 1 2 Furnishing of tobacco to children 2 0 1. 0 0 0 Disturb Peace -emergency telephone calls 0 0 0. 3 1 2 Disturb Peace -Disorderly Conduct 12 15 11. 17 13 8 Disturb Peace -Harassing communications 11 9 6. 17 16 20 Disturb Peace-Harass/Stalk 1 1 2. 0 1 0 Violation order (harass, restraining, protection) 3 4 3. 5 3 4 Property Damage/Vandalism 17 15 21. 25 24 23 Trespass 1 0 0. 1 0 1 Theft 2 5 2. 5 10 7 Fraud 11 7 6. 10 15 9 Possession Stolen Property 1 0 0. 1 0 1 Crime against government 0 0 1. 1 0 0 Crime against administration of justice 6 3 2. 3 1 2 Sex Related (prostitution - indecent exposure) 0 1 0. 1 0 4 Weapons - possession firearm 2 0 0. 1 2 2 Other 2 1 0. 1 1 1 TOTAL 138 123 103 . 141 142 127 change over previous year M 2.2% 15.4% 23.3% Page 33 Other Reports (9000's) MV FATAL CRASH 0 0 00 0 0 0 MV PERSONAL INJURY CRASH 9 12 5 . 15 12 5 MV PROPERTY DAMAGE CRASH 104 95 90 . 110 61 63 ADMIN INQUIRY 5 2 0 0 3 3 LOCKOUT CAR/HOUSE 5 4 5 8 7 6 FALSE ALARM RESIDENCE 48 45 44 52 76 61 FALSE ALARM BUSINESS 85 81 80 74 100 118 FALSE ALARM OTHER 15 11 8 20 40 39 ANIMALISSUES 45 27 47 31 78 110 ASSIST OTHER AGENCY 14 21 22 16 44 46 MOTORIST ASSIST 25 20 11 41 23 37 ASSIST PUBLIC 12 32 34 22 39 43 PREMISE SURVEY 1 2 0 1 0 0 DEATH INVESTIGATION 5 7 4 3 5 4 DISTURBANCE- DOMESTIC/VERBAL 49 41 34 45 40 49 DISTURBANCE - NOISE 23 25 35 46 45 58 DISTURBANCE - NEIGHBORHOOD 1 5 2 4 3 2 DISTURBANCE - UNWANTED PERSON 5 2 2 5 13 9 FIRES 9 15 10 9 15 16 GAS ODOR/LEAK 1 0 0 0 1 6 FOUND PROPERTY 5 12 9 7 11 15 JUVENILE PROBLEM 2 4 12 10 16 13 K9 ASSISTS 4 2 3 5 7 4 LOST/MISSING PERSON 2 0 1 0 2 2 LOST PROPERTY 16 9 16 3 9 8 MEDICAL 195 168 181 175 247 267 ABANDONED/JUNK VEHICLE 8 3 1 5 4 2 CIVIL MATTER 13 1 5 14 14 13 TRAFFIC DETAILS 79 86 23 103 152 142 EXTRA PATROL 5 1 0 0 1 63 911 HANGUP 28 34 39 25 48 0 VEHICLE IMPOUND 2 0 2 2 1 0 MISCELLANEOUS INFO 132 103 117 132 169 242 LICENSE PLATE PU/IMPOUND 1 0 1 2 0 1 ORDER FOR PROTECTION 9 8 4 11 5 5 TRESPASS NOTICE SERVICE 1 1 2 1 5 3 WARRANT ARREST 21 26 24 17 21 13 LOUD PARTY/NOISE VIOLATION 17 6 11 9 10 6 ALL OTHER CITY ORDINANCE VIOLATIONS 4 7 9 21 7 7 RECOVERED MOTOR VEHICLE 1 2 0 1 4 3 SUSPICIOUS PERSON 9 11 1 19 9 10 SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY 40 43 44 56 128 151 TOTAL 1,055 974 938 1,120 1,475 1,645 change over previous year 6.2% 51.4% 75.4% Page 34 Citations Hazardous moving 0 Speed 405 417 337 . 223 335 417 Careless/Reckless 1 2 1. 5 0 3 Disobey Signs & Signals 17 26 340 30 21 15 Stop Sign 30 40 82. 20 21 17 Improper Passing 2 1 1. 1 1 1 Improper Turning 2 1 5. 0 4 3 Improper Lane Usage/Wrong Way/HOV 1 0 2. 1 0 0 Fail to Yield 46 43 10. 16 9 12 Following Too Closely 2 3 2. 5 5 2 Improper/No Signal 6 1 2. 6 0 0 Open Bottle 1 1 0. 0 0 2 Defective/Improper Equipment 42 43 57. 78 90 63 Inattentive Driving 25 12 11. 14 20 8 School Bus Stop Arm 1 0 4. 2 0 2 Other Hazardous 1 0 0. 0 2 1 TOTAL HAZARDOUS MOVING 582 590 548. 401 508 546 Non -Moving . Fire Lane/Fire Hydrant 15 10 35. 14 18 12 2 am to 5 am parking/over 12 hours 208 122 196. 107 68 68 Handicapped Parking 11 9 11. 14 9 6 Other Parking 6 7 6. 5 18 7 Junk/Abandoned Vehicles 1 0 0. 9 0 0 Other Non-moving violations 4 0 0. 3 4 6 TOTAL NON-MOVING 245 148 248. 152 117 99 Non -Hazardous Moving . DAR/DAS/DAC 116 93 103. 100 97 98 No MN DL/No MN DL within 60 days 33 30 32. 18 18 31 Other DL violations 10 8 90 24 21 15 Improper Registration 155 57 52. 169 77 79 MC Requirement 0 0 0. 0 0 0 Overwidth/overweight 0 0 1. 0 0 0 Blocking & Obstructing 0 0 0. 0 0 0 Leaky/Unsecured Load 2 0 3. 0 1 3 Unreasonable Acceleration 0 0 0. 0 0 1 Seat Belts 28 15 27. 27 38 50 Child restraints 1 0 0. 0 1 0 No Insurance 62 57 68M 78 57 56 Crosswalk/Fail to Yield to Pedestrian 0 0 2. 0 0 0 Other Non -Hazardous Moving 4 0 0. 0 0 0 TOTAL NON -HAZARDOUS MOVING 411 260 297. 416 310 333 TOTAL OF ALL CITATIONS 1,238 998 1,093 969 935 978 Page 35 April 22, 2009 SUBJECT: CIMARRON PONDS NEIGHBORHOOD MEETING Dear Property Owner (Sent to those who live on the private streets off 12`x' Avenue): In order to protect the long-term taxpayer investment in our infrastructure, which includes streets, water main, sanitary sewer, and storm sewer, the City of Plymouth operates a Street Reconstruction Program. Your neighborhood has been identified in the 2009-2013 Capital Improvement Program as a potential candidate for reconstruction. At 6:00 pm, on Monday May 4, 2009, City staff will be holding a neighborhood meeting in the Council Chambers at City Hall, located at 3400 Plymouth Blvd. At this meeting, details of the Street Reconstruction Program will be presented and a question and answer session will take place. These meetings also give City staff an opportunity to gather information from residents on specific details that may need to be addressed during design. Following that meeting, a Preliminary Engineering Report will be prepared by City staff, and a Public Hearing date will be set. If this project is approved by the City Council, construction would likely begin in July of this year. Additionally, it is the policy of the City Council to assess abutting benefitting properties for street reconstruction costs. At this time, the estimated assessment for your property is $6,400. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at 763-509-5529. Sincerely, Joe Paumen Reconstruction Program Manager C W)oumems and SetungsUbairdd lSntinpWemprn Inremn HesWonlent W1wkAW%VHAS8\Ci...o 'hborhood%fee Page 36 April 22, 2009 SUBJECT: CIMARRON PONDS NEIGHBORHOOD MEETING Dear Property Owner (Sent to those living on 12'x' Avenue): In order to protect the long-term taxpayer investment in our infrastructure, which includes streets, water main, sanitary sewer, and storm sewer, the City of Plymouth operates a Street Reconstruction Program. Your neighborhood has been identified in the 2009-2013 Capital Improvement Program as a potential candidate for reconstruction. At 6:00 pm, on Monday May 4, 2009 City staff will be holding a neighborhood meeting in the Council Chambers at City Hall, located at 3400 Plymouth Blvd. At this meeting, details of the Street Reconstruction Program will be presented and a question and answer session will take place. These meetings also give City staff an opportunity to gather information from residents on specific details that may need to be addressed during design. Following that meeting, a Preliminary Engineering Report will be prepared by City staff, and a Public Hearing date will be set. If this project is approved by the City Council, construction would likely begin in July of this year. Additionally, it is the policy of the City Council to assess abutting benefitting properties for street reconstruction costs. At this time, the estimated assessment for your property is $3,700. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at 763-509-5529. Sincerely, Joe Paumen Reconstruction Program Manager C tDowmemsand Seni3Obairdd. ]SeningsUT.,,a Intemet FileslCmtent Outlo kWOOWHASKCimar nNeighb rh Meeting2_. Page 37 rp)City of Nymouth Adding Quolity to Life April 24, 2009 SUBJECT: SITE PLAN AMENDMENT FOR INSPEC (2009006) Dear Property Owner: Pursuant to the provisions of the Plymouth Zoning Ordinance, this letter is to inform you of a request by Inspec, under File Number 2009006, for a site plan amendment for reconstruction of the existing east parking lot and construction of a parent and bus staging area for Plymouth Middle School located at 10011 36' Avenue North. While a formal Public Hearing is not required, it is the City's policy to inform adjacent property owners/occupants of such applications. Hennepin County records indicate your property is within 200 feet of the site of this proposal. You are hereby notified of and cordially invited to attend a meeting to be held by the Plymouth Planning Commission at 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 6, 2009 in the Council Chambers at the Plymouth City Hall, 3400 Plymouth Boulevard. INFORMATION relating to this request may be examined at the Community Development Information Counter, at Plymouth 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. If you have any questions about the specifics of this proposal, please contact the Community Development Department at (763) 509-5450. Sincerely. Barbara G. Senness, AICP Planning Manager 2009006propnotice 3400 Ptymouth Blvd , Ptvmouth, wnnesota 55447-1482 • Tet: 763-509-5000 , www.d.ptymouth.mn.us Page 38 Legal Notice NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING SHINGLE CREEK WATERSHED MANAGEMENT COMMISSION WEST MISSISSIPPI WATERSHED MANAGEMENT COMMISSION TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: Notice is hereby given that the Shingle Creek Watershed Management Commission and the West Mississippi Watershed Management Commission will meet at Lancer at Edinburgh, 8700 Edinbrook Crossing, Brooklyn Park, MN, on Thursday, May 14 2009, at approximately 12:45 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, for a public hearing on a proposed management plan amendment: Description: Major Plan Amendment to the Shingle Creek/West Mississippi Second Generation Watershed Management Plan. The proposed amendment would revise the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) to add the Shingle Creek Restoration project between Regent and Noble Avenues in Brooklyn Park to the 2010 CIP. With the proposed revision the capital levy in 2010 is estimated to be $508,000, slightly exceeding the $500,000 maximum annual levy guideline. The project costs are based on very rough estimates. No design work has been completed on those projects so the capital levy may very well be less than estimated. The Shingle Creek watershed includes parts of the cities of Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, Crystal, Maple Grove, Minneapolis, New Hope, Osseo, Plymouth and Robbinsdale. The West Mississippi watershed includes parts of the cities of Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, Champlin, Maple Grove and Osseo. A copy of the proposed plan amendment may be viewed at www.shinglecreek.org. Persons who desire to be heard with reference to the proposed amendment will be heard at this meeting. Written comments may be submitted to Tina Carstens, chair of the Shingle Creek and West Mississippi Commissions, c/o JASS, 3235 Fernbrook Lane, Plymouth, MN 55447, or emailed to judiegiass.biz. Auxiliary aids for persons with handicaps are available upon request at least seven days in advance. Please contact Judie Anderson at 763-553-1144 to make arrangements. /s/ Tina Carstens, Chair Shingle Creek Watershed Management Commission /s/ Tina Carstens, Chair West Mississippi Watershed Management Commission By order of the Shingle Creek Watershed Management Commission and the West Mississippi Watershed Management Commission Published the weeks of April 27 and May 4, 2009. Z9Shingle Creek\ManagementP1w\Major Plan Amendment_2009WOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING citie .doc Page 39 Hennepin _U Hennepin County Transportation Department 1600 Prairie Drive Medina,MN 55340-5421 April 17, 2009 All Municipalities in the Hennepin County City Officials/Managers of Public Works Informational Notice Re: Hennepin County 2009 Overlay Program Dear City Official: 612-596-0300, Phone 763-478-4000, FAX 763-478-4030,TDD www.hennepin.us IRFC,IFI\j VD 4p�� '� -1 The intent of this letter is to share information regarding our anticipated overlay projects for 2009. Enclosed is the list of projects and map for the planned 2009 bituminous overlay program in Hennepin County. In addition, enclosed is a list of locations and descriptions for our planned 2009 safety improvement projects. Both of these programs may include work in or around your community. The scheduled work will be performed by county crews. In preparation for a bituminous overlay or a safety improvement project, the county crews may do any or all of the following types of work: • Raise utility structures to meet the new finished grade. • Fill low areas to level the existing surface. • Mill the existing surface as needed - often adjacent to concrete gutters and utility structures. • Repair and/or replace curb and gutter areas and catch basins. In anticipation of these projects, please review our program details and advise us if any of the projects conflict with your summer work plans. In addition, please make adjustments to your utility structures to match the new surface including modifications to water system manholes and shut -offs, storm sewer manholes, and sanitary sewer structures. And to aid in our coordination efforts, we request that all appropriate personnel from your organization be informed of these projects. Alternatively, prior to the start of work on a roadway within your municipality a county District Supervisor or Foreman will contact your organization to review the proposed work schedule and other project specifics. Be aware that preparation activities may initially result in an uneven surface and a rough ride. However, appropriate and thorough preparation of the roadway is necessary to improve the finished quality of each project. The length of time between preparation activities and completion of an overlay or safety improvement is dependent on the schedules of utility companies, city forces, county forces, and the milling contractor, as well as the weather. We will do our best to minimize disruptions. If unforeseen reasons require the county to make revisions to the program details included herein, we will advise you as soon as possible. hi the meantime, please contact me at (612) 596-0279 if you have any questions regarding the information provided within this letter and attachments. If you have specific questions at this time relating to a particular overlay project or proposed scheduling, please contact our Paving Foreman, Garth Felty, by telephone at 612) 596-0282 or by celi (612) 801-3033. v SincenBridge Chris Road ions Engineer CS/kf Enclosure Page 40 ,4n Equal Opportunity Employer .4ecyc! Hennepin County CILAi-- Transportation ab BO W M Road & Bridge Division 2009 Approved Overlay Program April 6, 2009 N�.R�?" li 6 W 6iwnmr .fi L\ 11 r� x Iyl CSPH 10 �(P m ]beO1B y 1.11 W �a 92 x0.f T 121 1 RAW FrOIed W Lweno I ll. CSAI'l JW'sO1C5N A11 s 950W �. Md 5eNW 25m Me J.In Al _ CSAN 15 499.welomw admrd adm SOPeMpap ptluN NE 0.T8 W W i 2009 Overlay Program South District North District Overlays (62.96 LM's) Spot Overlays (5.25 LM's) - SIP'S (1.79 LM's) Total Lane Miles 70 csA " IW nO:CS^H B2 (Ee9n WO) to me. e OI Cd49M1 YA7 134 LM W.. 5.92 W 150w "n cSANt I HwOI IXew MCSW wBwd CSPH 32 WJBbW n mva1d9e ae ro �'- 6m nGFelaeeOltiynip,p WoeH lvid2e CSfHss �-. 3mw - w2cWm:wmm - WCOv, 05(Iw � I Page 41 25'w01 Old Cry Nd 15 Yw126sar Mm Me SE 255 W _ 0"U.1 CSAR 152 W.W12WMC$W a+ S,,Owe1,,.e7N122bid1 164W to .. c5An 152 39 n 0123rd Ave N m - E YCSAH f32. 2T sot16m AveN FaYmd dblldP ave3( .KMrb 294 W 25' eerCluWISIsE 0 w CSW 15E 2reeleenln Ol aCy11 t2zm W ; Jb'n OIS-RmWAve ]JI CSAHLN 39ew ej ' CSAN 17 il CSPH 152 nss' 562-.O1E26m5tm 40 n ol49 In St 11 60 .OICSAN 3 to P n d E 29m 51(lepi new mmm�tn) 5WW CSVI JI 153W les - 4Vrol UM51W. McO1C9N121 �' "n cSANt I HwOI IXew MCSW wBwd CSPH 32 WJBbW n mva1d9e ae ro �'- 6m nGFelaeeOltiynip,p WoeH lvid2e CSfHss �-. 3mw - w2cWm:wmm - WCOv, 05(Iw � I Page 41 Laurie Ahrens To: Laurie Ahrens Subject: Great Work - Thank you! From: Marc.Christopherson[mailto:Marc.Christopherson@target.com] Posted At: Friday, April 17, 2009 3:19 PM Posted To: Web Contact Public Works Conversation: Great Work - Thank you! Subject: Great Work - Thank you! I want to let you know that I have been extremely impressed by the responsiveness of the Plymouth public works department on a number of occasions recently. Two weeks ago, I noticed a water leak near a fire hydrant on our street as I took my kids to their bus stop early in the morning. I waited until 8:00 when the city offices opened to report the leak but the public works crew arrived and shut off the water before I even had a chance to call. This week I found graffiti all over the playground and trails near our neighborhood. I planned to report it to the city the following day but, again, they responded before I even had a chance to call. Within a day, they had worked to remove or cover up the graffiti. I was thrilled with the responsiveness of the department. Last but not least, our streets were patched and swept this week. I know some people may take public services like these for granted but, in an era where budget cuts are taking a toll on many cities, I'm grateful for the level of service Plymouth provides. Please pass my thanks on to the crews that work so hard to make Plymouth the best place to live. Sincerely, Marc Christopherson 1601524 1h Ave. N. Page 42